The tone of the week is indeed a celebaratory one, but it holds true to the original mission and intent of the week which started 44-years ago.  Today, each organization is responsible for planning their own events and many organizations use the funds generated from the weeklong event to sustain their organizations for the rest of the year.
 
I don't always agree with the leadership style of the Celebrations Committee and I have not always seen eye to eye with their ideas and how they choose to implement them.  However, I respect the fact that the current leaders (most of whom are elders) and others before them have remained committed to this event and have kept it going, annually for 44 years now. 

Ms Adams describes this year's events presented by the Celebrations Committee as the worst one yet. Instead of criticizing from the sidelines, I stepped in so that I could infuse my ideas and efforts from within and as someone who is more familiar with the history of the organization, I can tell you that the organization, with limited resources, is doing their best to take this event to a higher level. 

This included the purchase and rental of 30 costumes for presentation in the West Indian Independence parade to give our parade a more colorful and cultural display.  They have added a Gospel concert to allow our Christian West Indians to participate in the Celebrations.  They have also added a Taste of the Caribbean and Jerk Festival event, which I am co-chairing and placed it in in our business district to allow a a broader audience of people to discover our cuisine and culture. 

Our "expensive" ball is more than just a dance.  We use the event to recognize individuals who make great contributions to the community.  This year, eight people will be receiving this recognition. We also have cultural extravaganzas on the town green of Bloomfield and Windsor. 
 
I am offended that Ms Adams would belittle these events as mere lawn-parties and back-yard barbecues.  I wish she would concentrate her energies and writing subjects into something that is positive and meaningful and that she will present things that are more balanced. 
 
Natasha Samuels