Treasure Beach, jazz and charity: a great mix

Garfene Grandison, Gleaner Writer

THE LAWNS of the Two Seasons Guest House in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, will come alive June 19 for the south-coast leg of the International Jamaica Ocho Rios Jazz Festival.

The venue will form the backdrop for the cool tones of some of Jamaica's top jazz artistes like Desi Jones and Friends, Kathy Brown and Friends, and Karen Smith.

Also in attendance to lend an international flavour will be saxophonist and tap dancer Idris Ackamoor and Treasure Beach's very own twin drummers called the Shane drummers.

Part proceed from the jazz festival will go to the Open Heart Charitable Mission and the Treasure Beach Women's Group. According to Christine Marrett, proprietor of Two Seasons, "We haven't worked out the amount that we will be donating to these two charities as yet because we haven't collected any proceeds. However, there are two members from each individual charity on the board, so the funds will be allocated accordingly."

At the helm of the festivities, set for 7 p.m., as master of ceremonies, is comedian Michael Abrahams. Selectors for the night are Albert Chevers of Soul Chev Disco and Dave Toomer. Food will be catered by Frenchman's Reef Restaurant and Bar. There will also be an art sale and exhibition by La Galerie de Sebastian.

Shuttles available

For those who do not wish to drive, shuttles will be available at different spots across the island for persons who wish to either stay overnight or for those who just wish to journey to and from the venue.

Marrett further states that the event will be a tremendous success because of the wonderful and laid-back atmosphere. "Everyone should just come out and enjoy top-notch performances from all the entertainers. We all know that Treasure Beach is famous for Calabash and we are hoping that it will become famous for the south-coast leg of the jazz festival," she stated.

Tickets are $1,000 presold, $1,200 at the gate available from: Kingston: Jam Venture Tours, Music Mart; Mandeville: Golf View Hotel; Montego Bay, Fontana Pharmacy and Altamont West Hotel; Junction: In Town Supermarket; Southfield: C.A. Parchment and Son; Black River: Waterloo Guest House; Santa Cruz: St Bess All Occasions; Treasure Beach.

Promoters of this venture are also encouraging patrons to donate tinned food items and adult clothing for the Open Heart Charitable Mission.