Directors of the Jamaica Committee, the organising body for the Pineapple Ball, Tanya Roberts (left) and Moyra Fitzroy, share a laugh with executive chairman for the Guardsman Group Limited, Kenneth Benjamin.Claudine Housen, Staff Reporter
WESTERN BUREAU:
THE RITZ-CARLTON ballroom was alive with polite chatter and the clinking of wine glasses as scores of well-wishers turned up regally dressed for the third annual Jamaica Pineapple Ball charity event last weekend.
With tickets priced at US$150 each, guests dug deep into their pockets to give to charity, and despite a change of venue due to inclement weather, the evening was nothing short of
magnificent.
The function kicked off in fine style at 6:30 p.m. with sunset cocktails and music by Montego Bay-based musician Paul Hurlock. At about 7:30 p.m. guests were officially welcomed and the top sponsors were acknowledged with beautiful pottery pieces.
Formalities aside, it was time to eat, drink and be merry, and that was done with gusto. Guests were treated to a myriad of savoury dishes, courtesy of the expert Ritz-Carlton chefs. Among the sweet treats were: the Ritz signature upside down cake with sugar loaf pineapples, almond drops, and Spirit of the Season fruit cake, but none could compare to the decadent 'Crepes banana with grapenut ice cream and hot rum sauce' - created on an open fire right before your eyes.
ENTERTAINED
While they ate, patrons were treated by Montego Bay's cabaret singer Karen Smith. She was followed by the Bare Essentials band, who got guests on their feet with songs such as: 'Carnival Again', 'Baila Baila' and a host of other high-energy beats.
Reflecting on the night's success, Jamaica Committee director, Mrs. Moyra Fitzroy, thanked the corporate sponsors who gave generously to the event.
"The support that we have received this year from our corporate partners was great," she said.
"Everybody has been very generous. Last year, I think we had 10 corporate partners, this year we have 17. In addition to purchasing tables, they normally give us items for the silent auction as well."
Having originated in Miami in 2000, the Pineapple Ball was relocated to Jamaica in 2002.
Geared towards educational development, proceeds from the ball have aided numerous educational programmes throughout Jamaica. Among the current beneficiaries are two students at the Westwood High School in Trelawny (US$5,000) and two teachers studying at the University of the West Indies.
The hot auction item for the event was an EPNS pineapple slotted server valued at US$20 which was sold for US$225. Found on the Jamaican coat of arms, the pineapple is said to be symbolic of hospitality.
