Pineapple Ball a resounding success

As the sun set over magnificent Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Pineapple Ball 2010 wowed a festive group of lovers of Jamaica from Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, Florida, as well as from New Zealand, England, Switzerland, Italy and, of course, Jamaica.

Guests took a guided tour of Fairchild Garden, complete with chilled champagne, to arrive at the Garden Room dressed with Jamaican madras fabric, heliconias, birds of paradise, pineapples and the cool sounds of Paul Hurlock in the background.

Stamp 'n' go was a devoured delicacy that led to Cindy Hutson's creative and delicious menu, which included tricolour reggae chicken and Blue Mountain encrusted salmon - ending with tropical fruit salad and the much-in-demand guava white chocolate bread pudding.

Dr Guy Harvey, world renowned marine artist and dedicated marine biologist and researcher, brought down the house in sharing the joys of his childhood spent in the hills of rural western Jamaica where blue-eyed small farmers could often be heard shouting, "A who loose di goat?"

Harvey received the award of excellence, which includes the funding of a scholarship in his name at his alma mater, the University of the West Indies, as recognition of his dedication to the protection of the marine environment and his entrepreneurial brilliance.

Although the Guy Harvey brand is known worldwide and the artist has received honours from many countries and foundations, this is the first recognition from his countrymen.

Xcess Sounds and One Third kept the revellers on their feet with a medley of ska, reggae and soca, well beyond the formal end of festivities, so much so that when the tables were being cleared, the dancers took to the stage and continued as if they could not get enough.

Jamaican art was snapped up. Pineapple Ball 2010 was a big night for Jamaican charities that will benefit from the proceeds generated by the gala.