Balaclava, St. Elizabeth, January 3, 2012 - The 15th staging of the Cotton Tree Toys for Kids (CTTFK) Christmas treat and toys-give away dubbed “15…A dream for our children” was held on Monday December 26th in Balaclava, St. Elizabeth on the grounds of the Balaclava Community Center. The day was a tremendous success. The treat which was officially declared opened by President & Founder of CTTFK, Venroy Nairne, began with prayer by Minister Winston Daley from the United Pentecostal Church in Kingston.

Linkz96 FM out of the westernmost parish of Jamaica (Westmoreland) provided live outside broadcast hosted by Carla Morris with technical Operator Patrick “pumpy” Williams. The thrill and excitement for the children’s entertainment package came from the “IT’S A PARTY TEAM” included bounce a bout, ferris wheel and the high striker. The children were treated to snow cones and popcorn also by the team.

This year saw the inclusion of a football competition where teams competed for trophies. The competition was won by the team that journeyed from St. Thomas, Central York United; with the local team Balaclava placing second. While the footballers vied to be on top, several activities geared at entertaining the younger children were in full swing including hoola hoop competition, needle and thread as well as dancing competitions for various age groups. The children also spoke about their schools, career goals with child-like enthusiasm.

Christmas gifts were then distributed to over a thousand children from Balaclava, surrounding communities and visiting parishes.

Finally the time came for the highly anticipated Miss Cotton Tree Toys for Kids Pageant MC’d by Carla Morris, General Manager and television host at Best of Jamaica (BOJ) Television Station. The distinguished panel of judges were Mrs. Leisha Henry-Salkey- Teacher, Ms. Jhaenell Lindo- Miss Teen Jamaica World 2011 and Ms. Khaliah Pennicott, Community Health Aide attached to the Balaclava Health Center.

Six girls competed for the coveted title: Kalia Farquharson -Miss Jackie’s Paradise; Nadine Mcleish -Miss Inner City Check Cashing; Shantaya Lewis -Miss Royal Caribbean Bakery; Annalisa Jackson- Miss H & F Heating & Air Conditioning; Natasha Williams -Miss Benjamin Moore Paint Store; Crystal Blake - Miss Dennis Saunders.

All six contestants were well received by the over 2000 strong crowd. The girls modeled in casual wear, swim wear and creative wear where they were required to create their own garment from everyday items, and formal wear. Their performances had the judges deliberating for a long time while the audience waited with bated breath for the announcements. Shantoya Lewis who wore the sash of Miss Royal Caribbean Bakery was declared the winner. 2nd place went to Natasha Williams Miss Benjamin Moore Paint Store and 3rd place to Nadine McLeish, Miss Inner City Check Cashing.

The sectional prize winners were: Natasha Williams, Most Congenial; she also shared the prize for Most Talented with Annalisa Jackson. Nadine McLeish took home the prize of Most Creative while Shantoya Lewis copped three prizes -Best Smile, Best Figure and Most Intelligent.

During the pageant the crowd was entertained by the sweet voice of Keona Bailey, head girl of Westwood High and the Razor squad out of Union with their dynamic and creative moves.

In a nut shell the 15th staging was a tremendous success. Special thanks must be given to all the persons who helped to make this venture a reality especially to the overseas residents from the Tristate area, Connecticut and New Jersey. To the Jamaican companies and organizations - Maya Chung and the Maya Chung Autism & Disabilities Foundation, Nadeen Neil and the team from One Stop Computers Limited and Digicel who donated gifts, time and monies to the organization.

To the members of the planning committee (Jamaica and USA) for their undying commitment, the principal of the Balaclava Primary School who allowed us to use the school for training, the members of the Balaclava Community Center Committee, the esteemed judges who did their jobs without bias or favour and above all to the unwavering Jamaicans who turned out to support what is to date the biggest event.

Above all thanks be to the Lord who gave us the strength to host this event another year.
All being well, same place, same time next year…

Shelleyann Sterling
Public Relations Officer–Events Planning
January 2012