The Resource and Finance Commission of the Brooklyn-based Independent United Order of Mechanics (IUOM), Friendly Society, Western Hemisphere, Inc., on Sunday hosted its grand annual luncheon at Sirico’s Caterers in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.
The gala ceremony was originally scheduled for Paradise Caterers on Avenue U in Brooklyn but was transferred a day before because of what organizers said were unforeseen circumstances.
The even featured, among other things, speeches, dancing, music and a “Ladies, Gents in the Hat” contest.
Grenadian saxophonist Brian Hurst performed several selections, and Millicent Bailey, daughter of the event coordinator, Jamaican Hyacinth Robinson-Goldson, danced to “God Provides,” evoking emotional response from patrons.
Native New Yorker Gloria Zingwall won the hat competition, with St. Lucian Theresa Mitchell taking the second runner-up prize.
Hats were judged on style, creativity and appeal of colors, Robinson-Goldson said.
Overall music was provided by “The Docta.”
Walter L. Benjamin, the Guyanese-born Most Worshipful Grand Master, urged Mechanics to heed the words of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General, Howie Prince, the featured speaker: “Set your buckets where you are.”
“Please be good messengers for the Order,” urged Benjamin in his brief remarks. “Things are changing. Yes, things are changing, and it’s time for the ladies to move up.”
Benjamin said in the program booklet that the annual luncheon “brings together members of our fraternal family, friends, well-wishers, sponsors and distinguished guests in celebration of unity and togetherness.
“Over the years, and under the leadership of various committee chairs, we continue to experience and enjoy the ambiance and comradery, which continue to lend financial assistance to the Order, so that we can help others within our communities,” he said.
“The work done by the planning committee continues to expand in and outside of our Order,” Benjamin added.
“May those of us who have the privilege and opportunity of serving and offering our talents on these committees never forget the objectives and especially the motto, which radiate from the center of our organization— that of ‘Friendship, Truth and Love.’”
Robinson-Goldson described the event as “beautiful,” adding that it was “another team effort to serve our beloved Order, and to lend our talents and resources to give back to our communities.
“We look forward to the continued support of all our members, supporters and friends in helping us to help others,” she told Caribbean Life.
Vincentian Casper Edwards is the commissioner of the Order’s Resource and Finance Commission.
