Respect: ARC, 30 years
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The anniversary celebration also put the spotlight on the wider ARC family. The evening recognised 35 employees with more than 20 years of service, alongside 20 long-standing stakeholders — including customers, suppliers and service providers — who have supported the business for decades.
“When Norman Horne started ARC 30 years ago, he did something profoundly patriotic. He belived that Jamaica could manufacture its own future.” — Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett offered congratulations on behalf of the Government and people of Jamaica, while making the case for ARC’s role beyond manufacturing.
“Thank you for believing in Jamaica when it wasn’t fashionable to do so,” Bartlett said, pointing to the company’s contribution to the tourism industry. “Without manufacturers like ARC there is no tourism.” From hotel roofing to fencing and steel, Bartlett noted that Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure relies on local manufacturers and businesses such as ARC.
Administrative Officer Sheryl Ingram (third left) received the Tenured Titan Award for 28 years of service. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
He closed with a charge for the next 30 years: ARC for the future — Advance, Regionalise, Connect, Innovate, and Keep it family, Keep it Jamaican.
Legacy Builder awards went to drivers with more than 20 years of service (from left) Leon Mais, Christopher Charlton, Everton Gordon, Leebert Bonner, and Herbert Thorpe. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)
And with the tributes delivered, it was time to celebrate. Entertainment for the evening began during cocktail hour with violinist Kamoy Gordon of Kadon Music Enterprise. Singer Mozein followed during dinner with soulful renditions and an original song. Coppershot was on deck with the ones and twos, making sure the vibes stayed very much intact. While Romain Virgo brought the curtains down on an evening of betterment, of audacity, of dogged determination and resolve. And most importantly, family.
Photos: Garfield Robinson
Legacy Builder awardee Forklift Supervisor Conrad “Bugs” Bonfield was recognised for 24 years of service. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)