ORLANDO – The Bahamas garnered massive exposure over the weekend at a Ministry of Tourism and Aviation sponsored Party in da Backyard at the pool of the Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando, Florida, as part of the sponsorship of the Allstate Tom Joyner Family Reunion (ATJFR) Expo and Convention.
The explosive and rhythmic sounds of Junkanooers and the colorful costumes, at the Bahamas styled party, captured the attention of hundreds in the pool and surrounds, enjoying the Labour Day weekend. Crowds joined in the line and danced to the music while many others raised cameras to capture the parade.
The Junkanoo performance was part of The Bahamas’ sponsorship of the Annual ATJFR, which took place at the Resort, August 29th through September 2nd.
During The Bahamas’ signature event at the pool, members of the Bahamas Florida marketing and communications team distributed T-shirts, cowbells and whistles for everyone to join in the fun.
The Bahamas also exhibited at the ATJFR Expo during the 4-day event which drew thousands to its multiplicity of booths, displays, exhibitions and seminars. The Bahamas booth was shared by The Bahamas’ co- sponsor, Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line.
At The Bahamas booth, Expo attendees were encouraged to sign up to win round trip airline tickets from Florida to The Bahamas, compliments of Bahamasair – the country’s flag carrier; or a cruise to Grand Bahama Island out of the Port of Palm Beach, compliments of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line.
The Allstate Tom Joyner Family Reunion is in its 15th year and was created to be a multigenerational, fun, educational and entertaining weekend for African American families. The event is the brainchild of Tom Joyner, who is host of the syndicated radio show “Tom Joyner Morning Show” which is heard in more than 100 U.S. cities. Tom Joyner is also the founder of Reach Media.
The Bahamas Tourist Office team at the event included Betty Bethel-Moss, Director Marketing, Florida; Anita Johnson-Patty, General Manager, Global Communications; Prescott Young, Area Manager, Houston; Jeannie Gibson, Manager, Global Communications; Tina Lee, District Manager, Florida; Adrian Kemp and Phylia Shivers, Senior Marketing Representatives, Florida.
