2009 Honorees pose with Ambassador Johnson, Bishop Taylor, Rev. McIntyre and Robert Kelly
Saturday May 2, saw the hosting of the 26th annual reunion awards dinner at Antun’s located in the New York City borough of Queens.
Despite the harsh economic times the event was well supported, over 250 guests were in attendance. The attendees had a great evening, master of ceremonies, Rev. Canon Calvin McIntyre in his role as comedian had the guests laughing all night, and the DJ was also in fine fettle, this was evidenced by the fact that the dance floor was still buzzing when the festivities had to come to an end at 2 A.M.
This year’s event was highlighted by the honoring of four outstanding gentlemen who have served Kingston College over the years, Keith Daley, Winston Harvey, Errol Lecky and Maurice Lewis. Patrons for the dinner were the Hon. Anthony Johnson, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the USA and The Right Rev. E. Don Taylor, Bishop of New York City, both KC Old Boys.
Winston Harvey accepts his award
A Special presentation was made to Rev. Taylor who after serving in New York City for fifteen years will demit office on May 31, 2009. He is returning to Jamaica to take up his new appointment as Rector of the Kingston Parish Church.
Honoree Maurice Lewis makes his acceptance speech
Keith Daley, Winston Harvey and Maurice Lewis were all recognized for the instrumental role they played in establishing and maintaining the successful basketball program at the school. All three gentlemen represented the school in the sport and later returned as coaches, guiding many winning teams in an era when school boy basketball was dominated by Kingston College. A common theme in the acceptance speeches of all these honorees was how surprised they were when they found out they would be recognized for their efforts, for them serving and giving back to their alma mater was something that came naturally. Many Old Boys who were teammates with or who were coached by these most deserving gentlemen were in attendance. Three such individuals, Dr. Ivor Nugent, Hugh Ingram and Rainford Bloomfield, a current director of the Association, presented plaques to the honorees.
Fatman Clarke accepts President's Award
Errol Lecky was honored for his outstanding service to the New York Chapter of the Old Boys’ Association. From 1984-2006, he served as board member, secretary or treasurer and contributed greatly to the success and viability of the organization. During his over twenty years of service, he played key roles in several of the accomplishments of the Association, most notably the recognition of tax exempt 501(c) (3) status. Errol continues to serve the Association in his capacity as a member of the nominating committee and more importantly continues to serve Kingston College as a member of the Kingston College Development Trust Fund (KCDTF). Errol Lecky was presented with his award plaque and a citation from the state of New York by Assemblyman Nick Perry, himself a distinguished KC Old Boy.
Errol Lecky accepts award for 20+ years of service
In a fitting surprise Clinton “Fatman” Clarke, a director of the Association was presented with the President’s Award for his significant contribution to Kingston College and KCOBA. Mr. Clarke has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, helping to make the Association the success it is today, and came in for high praise for the work put in to make the 26th Annual Reunion Awards Dinner both a reality and a success.
. Keith "Smiley" Daley accepts award
After the presentations and dinner the vote of thanks was given by Alimi Bonjoko, and all that was left was for the honorees and guest to dance the night away. Here is hoping that the 27th installment of the Reunion Awards Dinner will be bigger and better.
