The Florida book launch of the publication “Looking Back…..the Struggle to Preserve Our Freedoms” held at the Broward Community College on October 21st was an overwhelming success as the turnout and enthusiasm of the audience certainly exceeded all expectations. The book was written by retired Jamaican journalist/ radio talk show host Joan Williams and the launch was organized in conjunction with the South Regional Library, Pembroke Pines.
Before the official ceremony, attendees were entertained by Tallawah Mento band under the leadership of Mr. Colin Smith who also acted as EMCEE.
Praise from Vice-Mayor Winston Barnes
A welcome was given by Miramar Vice-Mayor Winston Barnes who is also news manager and host of “Taking Care of Business” aired on Radio WAVS 1170 am in South Florida. In his address Barnes was effusive in his praise of Williams for writing a book which will add to the documentation of the political history of Jamaica, giving the people a greater understanding of their roots.
The feature address was delivered by Wayne Golding Sr. well known immigration lawyer and the Jamaica Diaspora Board Representative for the Southern USA.
Golding, was introduced by Ms. Marcia Ward, Asst. Regional Manager of the Broward Library, who also welcomed the guests on behalf of her institution.
In his wide-ranging address, Golding outlined the remarkable achievements of the 13 year-old Jamaica Diaspora movement and the important role it continues to play in the development of Jamaica. He said this was reflected not only in financial terms but also by helping the Jamaican government with expertise, and assisting Jamaicans overseas to understand and negotiate through the bureaucracy in Jamaica.
He urged Jamaicans in the audience to become involved with the Diaspora movement “so we can all contribute to making the Jamaica the dynamo of the region.”
Review of publication
A comprehensive and interesting review of the publication was delivered by Mrs. Yvonne Shagoury, a retired Jamaican businesswoman now resident in Florida. This was followed by a reading from the chapter entitled “Perception versus Reality by Dr. Bernard Marshall, foundation member of the Greensboro/ Jamaica friendship Association in North Carolina.
The author then took a few questions from the audience before, due to the limited time, moving the vote of thanks and signing books for the appreciative attendees.
Cheryl Wynter, Information Officer, represented the Jamaican Consulate in Miami at the book launch.
According to Ms. Williams, the Florida launch was a valuable plug for the publication which has already received excellent reviews on Amazon.com. at; https://www.amazon.com/LOOKING-BACK-Struggle-Preserve-Freedoms-ebook/dp/B015BONME0
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