First and foremost, Convent of Mercy Academy "Alpha" Association, Inc.- Florida Chapter has been voted the BEST JAMAICAN SOCIAL CLUB/ASSOCIATION for 2009 in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, Florida, area.  This was part of the Best of Jamaica Worldwide Survey taken by www.jamaicans.com!  SPECIAL THANKS to all who supported our Committee and events for 2009 to make it happen!

In January 2009, Alpha Florida Chapter launched its first New Year Networking Social at Truck Stop.  Many alumnae showed up in their new “upper, upper, upper sixth” school attire – Alpha polo/t-shirts. Family, friends and other Alumni Associations added to the “Truck Didn’t Stop!” theme with “plenty” dancing, socializing and networking.  All left with one major consensus in mind: “Ooonoo going to do this again next year, right?”

So, you “wanna dance?” Our 2^nd Annual Spring Fling Dinner Dance did just that!  It was non-stop reveling and partying to the sounds of the Mighty Vikings Band with Road March King, Oscar B. and DJ Bonnitto!  Lots of prizes and surprises were had!  One monumental surprise was Sister Bernadette’s attendance two times in a row! We didn’t get Sister to join in the soca fun this time around, but she was stunning in her usual glory – “let Sister eat in peace, nuh?”  Despite the downturn in the economy, our efforts and hard work exceeded their expectations. “John Public” didn’t hesitate to take advantage of Alpha Florida Chapter’s Stimulus Package to join in the fun.

“Who’s on First?” It’s Alpha Florida Chapter again with its Halloween Picnic.  Everyone had a great time and the costumes were amazing!  Many of our own alumnae, friends and families showed up to "party again", as well as those from other alumni associations! Jean Lowrie-Chin, Alpha alumna and avid supporter of the Alpha Florida Chapter, was on site to make a monetary presentation to the Association. Scrumptious meals by Alpha’s own, Betty Chang, and KC’s Alumni, Freddy Mills, finger lickin’ seafood soup were the talk of the town for the fall season. Everyone watched in awe as the adults threw away “age papers” to win prizes in the “overgrown kiddies’ games” division.  The “Hoola Hooping” was a sight to behold!  Last but not least, “di pickney dem” had a BLAST!

On a more somber note and judging from feedback from the Executive Committee's Mission Healthy 'Alpha' Team to Alpha Academy in Kingston, Jamaica, the success of the Mission again surpassed all expectations! "Nuff"  Personal Care Packages and  learning and educational materials were distributed . Workshops and Lectures were well attended.  Principal Singh, faculty and staff were enthused. Our "little sisters" expressed deep appreciation and their calls for an encore next year were resounding.  Prime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding, took the time out from his hectic schedule to congratulate and encourage the Team!  Dr. Sandra Lawrence, Class of 1975, and the Mission Team, “yuh mek wi proud!”

The word is out! Alpha Florida Chapter enjoys hosting a “good party to party!” And, who formulated that strategical concept?  YOU!  Keep up the good work!  Spread the word!  Join us any time, any how, anywhere, any place! Words fail to express our sincere appreciation for your unconditionally gracious deeds and support. Without you, our goals would have been thwarted.  Our thoughts of lending a caring and helping hand to our little sisters at our Alma Mater, Alpha Academy, would have been a myth!  In conclusion, Alpha Florida Chapter wishes you and your family good health and prosperity for many “moons” to come!