Kelly
There wasn't much to surprise me about Nomination Day 2007. There were many flags, lots of music and, overall, the camaraderie between rival supporters was quite refreshing. Albeit this took place in some constituencies where one party is going to win by a landslide and a half,it was camaraderie nonetheless.
I have no intention of reading into the show of support for the candidates as that is what political analysts are for. So instead, it's time for the Nomination Day awards handed out to those who caught my eye (woe unto them) from the Nomination Day activities. There are two sides to the awards: positive ones and not-so-nice ones. First the positives:
The Can't Get Enough/Can't Keep A Good Man Down Award goes to Ras Astor Black who is running (again). Can't fight his determination I guess.
Best Entrance Award goes to Sally 'Bike Back' Porteous. Now we have no idea how far she rode on the bike, but that kind of entry will get you a 'forward' every time. Next time wear a helmet though. Running a close second was K.D. Knight transporting his colleague to the proceedings in a sporty two-door Benz. Sally wins because I don't think many would have envisioned her on a bike back while K.D. is more known for his style.
Jamaica Labour Party candidate for Central Manchester, Sally Porteous, waves to her supporters as she arrives at the Mandeville Courthouse to be nominated. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer - Junior Dowie/Staff Photographer
The Best Headgear Award goes to Mayor of Kingston Desmond McKenzie. His 'handkerchief Kangol' as I call it, sell off! Second place goes to National Democratic Movement President Earl DeLisser in St. Thomas whose sailor's hat was really cool.
Mayor Desmond McKenzie
The Happiest To Be Nominated Award goes to Patrick Roberts who looked like he won the lotto while flashing the three Joshies to pay his fee. But then if you give out and I quote from him, "the most bun and cheese", you would feel happy too I suppose.
PNP candidate Patrick Roberts counts out the 'Joshies'.
Congrats to the first group but these guys in the not-so-nice section might not like me much
The Homer Simpson DUH Award for looking rather dumb goes to both James Robertson and Peter Bunting for showing up late. Not smart fellows. Babsy Grange comes close with her rantings about the number of persons to take into the nomination centre.
The Wha Yu A Do Deh Award goes to Phillip Paulwell for showing up in Western Thomas. I'm sure Rosemarie Shaw can take care of herself, don't you think?
And, of course, The Completely Lost his Marbles Award goes (unfortunately) to Glenville (Not As Spry As I Used To Be) Shaw who, in trying to jump on to a vehicle, promptly falls and breaks a bone in his leg. Sincerely, we hope he recovers fully but that was not smart.
For those who didn't win anything this time, worry not. Just look out for the Election Day Awards as there are bound to be a few more whoppers. Later.
Nominate me at daviot.kelly@ gleanerjm.com
Out of nowhere came Phillip Paulwell to (he says) support his colleague Rosemarie Shaw in Western St. Thomas. -Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
