Trelawny Emancipation Vigil evokes spirit of freedom

Richard Morais, Gleaner Writer

FREEMANS HALL, Trelawny:

Patrons were treated to an exciting entertainment package during the Trelawny Emancipation Vigil in Freemans Hall on Tuesday as the parish rolled out its Jamaica 50 activities.

The large crowd was treated to performances that included cultural items, a gospel segment headed by Noretta Lewis, along with the Freemans Hall Nine Night group, David Gibson Troy High School, and the duo Anna Lee Reece and Chevon Sterling.

One of the highlights was the re-enactment of the proclamation read by Custos Rotolorum Paul Muschett, after which a symbolic bonfire was lit.

As part of the celebrations for the parish, the Trelawny Independence Road Race was reintroduced last Sunday following a 30-year hiatus.

The categories for participants were the under-20 years, 20 to 49 years, and the seniors for both males and females. Trevor Mathison and Ambrozene Johnson copped the male and female titles for the seniors.

The 20 to 49 category was won by Garcia McLean while Deon Johnson won the male title. Tariq Fullerton is the male under-20 champion.

CELEBRATIONS

Trelawny's Jamaica 50 celebrations began on July 25 and started with the opening of an exhibition at the parish library in Falmouth.

The Independence church service will be held at the William Knibb Baptist Church tomorrow, followed by a gospel concert in Water Square, Falmouth.

The festivities will culminate with a civic ceremony on Independence Day in Water Square at 9 a.m., followed by a gala concert that will feature performances by Jimmy Riley, The Tamlins, Leroy Sibbles, and a fashion show.