New York/4.20.14/CMM -- On Thursday April 17, 2014, Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB), honored track legend Dr. Dennis Johnson, CD, at its annual reception and awards, held at St Francis College in Downtown Brooklyn, New York. In attendance were several dignitaries and VIP’s as well a wide cross section of Diaspora folks who came out to show their support for this very distinguished Jamaican.
In addition to receiving the Pioneer Award, from Team Jamaica Bickle, Dr. Johnson made history; recognized by three branches of the US Government as a true icon of the Caribbean. He was presented with a United States House of Representatives Proclamation from the office of US Congresswoman, Yvette D. Clarke; A New York State Assembly Citation from the office of Assemblyman N. Nick Perry and a New York City Council Citation form the office of Council Member, Jumaane D. Williams.
Dr. Johnson, ‘DJ’ (as he is affectionately called) walked into a room filled with adoring fans and many who just wanted to get to know this remarkable man. Many were learning about this icon of Jamaica’s rich track history for the first time and were in awe of his resume; impressed by his tremendous achievements on the track and the length and breadth of his innumerable contributions over the decades.
Johnson was a standout as a young athlete drawing wide acclaim as a student at the San Jose State University. He went on to have a stellar career in sport development and is often referred to as the grandfather and architect of Jamaica's track prowess.
In presenting the TJB Pioneer award to Dr. Johnson, Irwine Clare, CEO & Founder, spoke of the greatness of Dennis Johnson, his love for country and his commitment to the youth and to opening doors for those who came after him
Among the several dignitaries and community leaders: Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Herman G. LaMont, who was also honorary patron; Mr. Selmon Walters, Consul General of St. Vincent & The Grenadines to New York; Ms. Omyma David, Deputy Consul General of Grenada to New York; N. Nick Perry, New York State Assemblyman; Nkoloi Nkoloi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Botwsana to the United Nations; Karlene Largie, UJAA; Olympian, Devon Harris, former captain of Jamaica’s 1988 Bobsled Team, Lawrence Garriques, coach, UTECH and noted obstetrics and gynecology doctor, and Calabar alumnus, Don Phillibert.
Professor Colin Gyles delivered a special message on behalf of the President of UTECH, Professor Errol Morrison and Dr. Clare Sutherland also of UTECH paid special tribute to Dr. Johnson, after which Consul General Herman LaMont declared the foundation officially launched.
Representing the sponsors were: Garfield Comrie, Caribbean Marketing Consultant, Western Union and also representing Grace; Trevor Smith, Marketing Manager of Tower Isles Patties, whose company made a special donation to the Dennis Johnson Foundation; Sabrina HoSang, COO, Caribbean Food Delights; Kenton Senior of the Jamaica Tourist Board; Robert Clarke & Louis Grant, Irie Jam Media; Karlene Largie, UJAA; Robert 'Bob' DeSouza, Transcontinental Shippers who also did double-duty as MC for the evening. He was ably assisted by Ms. Sharon Gordon of Coalition to Preserve Reggae Music (CPR).
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