Seven community leaders will be honored at Tropical Paradise Ballroom on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn by the Progressive Democratic Political Association (PDPA), headed by former New York Council Member Dr. Una S.T. Clarke. The ceremony will be held on July 10 starting promptly at 4 pm.
They are: Richard Buery, a prominent leader in the Panamanian American community; Rickford Burke, a Guyanese-born legal and political consultant who has been involved in several successful political campaigns; George Hulse, of Health-First, an insurer regarded as a leader in service to the Brooklyn community; State Sen. Kevin Parker, of the 21st Senatorial District; Trevor Smith, of Tower Isle Frozen Foods, Ltd., the maker of Jamaican-style patties and sponsors of the Jamaican Bobsled team; Chasen Hollancid, director, Suede Hospitality Group; and Nelson King, Caribbean Life’s senior writer.
“You would do well to bring yourself and at least a good friend to the Tropical Paradise Ballroom on Utica, on Sunday, July 10, where a select number of Brooklyn’s community leaders will pick up a much-coveted honor from the political club that is the home base for Rep. Yvette D. Clarke of the 9th Congressional District and the matriarch of Central Brooklyn herself, Dr. Una Clarke, who continues to be a looming presence in the political life of the New York,” said Veronica Phillips, the PDPA Vincentian-born vice chair.
Phillips added that the July 10 gala “focuses the attention on the men of the area who have made notable contributions over the years to the strength and vibrant life of Brooklyn.
“This event is usually very well attended, including cameo appearances by a literal who’s who of local, state and federal politics,” she said. “The audience includes the guests of the honorees, who come out as a cheering section for the honorees, and also, we have members and friends of the club – which is a virtual cross-section of what is predominantly the Caribbean American community.
“Since our club has been instrumental in the elections of many public officials, our events have been graced by the presence of members of Congress, Federal senators, members of the State Assembly and State Senate, city councilmembers, judiciary, as well as other top political leaders of the city,” Phillips continued.
She said tickets can be reserved by emailing chmon
