On the evening of Saturday, November 8, the Gray’s Green Community Club of America, based in New York City, hosted its 16th gala at the newly opened Westchester Majesty Event Hall in Mt. Vernon, NY. The celebration marked 44 years of independence for Antigua.
Under President Keanna Appleton, the event honored four outstanding Antiguans and Barbudans—Ms. Deborah Moore, Mr. Gregg Batchelor, Mr. Calvin Prophet, and Dr. Dave A.B. Ray—for their contributions to nation-building, patriotism, community service, and cultural preservation.
A surprise presidential award was presented to Ms. Valda DeSilva for her dedicated annual service to the children of Green Bay with school supplies.
The invocation was delivered by Rev. Belgrave Pelle, and the keynote speaker was Ms. Temika Christian, principal of Green Bay Primary School. During her address, she reinforced the group’s motto, “One Aim, One Community, One Destiny.”
The American anthem was sung by Nicole Rivera, and the Antiguan national anthem was performed by Renee Airall.
The Mistress of Ceremony was Mrs. Daphne Henry-Palma, and the vote of thanks was given by Ke-Naudra Aska.
The evening featured music by DJ Chalice and the Klymaxx Band, with lively dancing to local tunes including selections by Claudete “CP” Peters and the Burning Flames, creating a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and unity.
