jamarchLast Sunday, thousands of fun loving Jamaicans from various states across the USA made the trek to Lake Quassy, Rt. 64 in Middlebury, Connecticut for the annual Merritone Family Funday and what a summer soiree it was! This year’s ‘Family Fun Day’ featured the ‘Royal Caribbean Bakery Patty & Bun Eating Contests which had professionals and non professional eaters, various rides for kids and the exciting “Tri-State Knockout Domino Competition.” Dj Roy, Stretch, Glamor Wayne and Fridge, Trevor Blake and perennial favorite Winston Blake kept patrons grooving all day with timeless music. Highlight of the day was the kiddies dance competition that some say was the best yet.
The boys segment was won by 7 year old Daijon “Drenade” Thomas who showed he was adept at all the latest dancehall moves out of Jamaica and was the envy of even the most accomplished dancehall fan. Pandemonium erupted when he started did the moon-walk across the stage and ended with a dynamic Michael Jackson dance tribute that earned him rapturous applauds from the huge crowd. Veteran singer Dobby Dobson who performed after, held his own doing songs from his catalog of hits including “Loving Pauper,” “Seems to me I’m Losing” and “Wonderful Sound” that went over well with fans.
Business entrepreneur Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin and her family – owners/operators of VP Records – were on hand to collect the ‘Caribbean American Family of the Year Appreciation Award.’ All in all it was a splendid day that patrons will remember for many years to come.
Media Writer
