Trelawny Natives Gather In New York For 44th Reunion

Trelawny natives will meet in Brookyln, New York, on Saturday (May 25) for the Friends of Falmouth (FOF) Symposium & Brunch. 

The event, which gets under way at 12:00 pm will be opened by New York State Assembly Member, Brian Cunningham (43rd District), whose mother was born and raised in Falmouth. 

“His deep connections to the Jamaican community in Brooklyn highlight the significance of this event and its focus on strengthening the bonds within the Jamaican diaspora,” said President of FOF, Michael A. Wattkis. 

He said the event will provide information about the myriad business, economic, and cultural developments in the parish. 

“Participants will have the opportunity to engage with key government agencies from the parish, unlocking access to the latest emerging opportunities and innovations,” Mr. Wattkis said. 

There will be presentations from Falmouth Mayor, Councillor Collen Gager; former mayors, Garth Wilkinson and Fred Bartley; and acting Principal of Falmouth Infant, Patrice Beharie. 

FOF adopted the institution in 2023, and Mr. Wattkis noted that “our initiatives have allowed us to provide book vouchers to 81 graduates, supply 100 school bags to students, and sponsor a teachers appreciation day lunch for the dedicated staff.”  

“In 2024, we are committed to expanding our support by donating additional book bags and focusing on essential improvements such as acquiring cooling fans and constructing a sickbay at the school,” he added.  

The FOF Symposium & Brunch is part of activities for Trelawny Memorial Day Weekend celebrations in New York, which is now in its 44th year.  

The four-day event will bring together thousands of Trelawnyites from the United States, United Kingdon, Canada, and beyond to celebrate their beloved parish.  

The festivities begin on Friday (May 24) with a Trelawny Meet & Greet on Long Island and the Friends of Trelawny Association (FOTA) Annual Award Banquet & Dance in Queens. 

Activities on Saturday also include a ‘WaterSquare Link-Up’ and ‘Country Saturday Lime,’ culminating in the annual All-White ‘Trelawny We Come From’ party. 

Sunday (May 26) features the 44th Annual Trelawny Reunion Picnic at Rockland Lake State Park in Rockland County. 

The celebrations conclude Monday (May 27) with the William Knibb High School Alumni Annual Memorial Day Barbecue in the Bronx and Scarlett’s Backyard Falmouth Barbecue in Queens. 

“This weekend is a testament to the enduring spirit and unity of the Jamaican diaspora. The events, including the Friends of Falmouth fundraiser, the vibrant dances, mega-family picnic, and high-school reunions, all serve to strengthen our resilient bonds and collective aspirations. These gatherings reflect the deep connection we maintain with our heritage and the ongoing commitment to uplift our community, both here and back home,” Mr. Wattkis noted. 

Friends of Falmouth is a New York-based non-profit organisation focused on championing the rich cultural heritage of the historic town and advocating for sustainable economic and social development in the town.