Bradshaw, Make a Difference Foundation spread Christmas cheer

For the second consecutive weekend, Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw and the Make a Difference Foundation, spread Christmas cheer within the St Michael South East constituency. Following last week’s dinner for seniors at the Hi-Gate Garden Oasis and Bar, this weekend was dedicated to the community’s younger members.

Bringing patrons together in the spirit of the season, Auntie Santia’s Annual Christmas Glow Party attracted a large crowd dressed in white, keeping with the theme of the event. 

Held at the Parkinson Resource Centre, nestled in the heart of the Pinelands community, the grounds were transformed into a fair-like setting for Saturday’s party. A fantastic time was guaranteed as the smell of popcorn wafted through the air, and sno cones were readily available to help beat the heat. 

While many patiently queued waiting to have their faces painted, others had boundless energy to burn. Screams of joy echoed as they clamored for their turn on the inflatable slide or bounced away with wild abandon in their choice of jumping tents. There was still even more energy left for the energetic aerobic session led by Spinny. Eventually they took a break heading over to the food area choosing from the selection which included hamburgers, hotdogs, and ham cutters.

The Santa Corner was a hit with the young attendees who were eager to get up close to Santa Claus. With a photobooth on site, they could get mementos. Close by, a station was set up where they could select gifts from an array of options. As night fell each child received multi-colored glow sticks to light up the night.

Tionne Hernandez was joined by the tiny tots.

In the concert that followed, home drums beat first with appearances by the dancers from the Pinelands Creative Workshop doing the maypole. Nathalee Burke was in the cast singing Caroling Caroling, LR performing some of his popular tracks and Richard Stoute Teen Talent competitor Damario Foster also represented as talent from the area. Other crowd-pleasing performances included Tavon Clarke and the trio Sisters in Harmony, featuring Skyy Dowridge, who later returned for a solo performance.

Roneisha Alleyne and Trinity Clarke showcased their impressive vocals both individually and as a duet, delivering a dynamic performance of Clarke’s hit, I Love Soca. The stage also welcomed Junior Monarch alum Tae and reigning monarch Mr. Showman, who added their signature flair to the festivities. The night concluded on a high note with Tionne Hernandez, who invited excited little ones onstage as she performed her popular Crop Over track, Starta Pack. The night closed with a session by deejay Redemption Sounds. (STT)