Guyanese in New Jersey honour Rebel

Guyanese veteran Calypsonian Geoffrey Phillips, otherwise known as the ‘Mighty Rebel’ has recently retired and as such, was honoured in New Jersey at a ceremony which was coordinated by Lady Ira Promotions.

At the event, which was hosted on August 20, a letter from Robert L. Bowser, Mayor of East Orange, New Jersey, was received, congratulating the Mighty Rebel on his achievements as a cultural ambassador who has kept Guyana’s culture alive and in the forefront throughout the United States of America.

The Mighty Rebel displays his letter from Mayor Bowser and his award from Stanford Solomon.

Stanford Solomon of King Solomon Shipping also made an appearance at the ceremony where he presented the Mighty Rebel with a memento made of bronze which was mounted on a black base in the form of a shield featuring a microphone, two stars and three music signs.

Also present, were many Guyanese, the majority of whom were personal friends from the West Demerara area, where Rebel resides.

Concluding the ceremony was the man of the hour, the Mighty Rebel, who entertained those in attendance for approximately 45 minutes with calypso items and jokes which were all well received.

This marked the second ceremony that has been hosted in celebration of the work of the Mighty Rebel and which also served to acknowledge his retirement. The first event was held in Georgetown on April 1, 2011 at the National Service Sports Complex and was coordinated by Natasha Corrica, Stanley Phillips and Marcia Forde.

Rebel, speaking with The Scene earlier this week, made reference to the “Calypso Invasion” which was hosted at the Upscale Restaurant on September 22 which he said was a definite success.

The highlights of the evening were Mighty Rebel himself and Mighty Smoker, Rebel’s Manager noted.

The duo stated that fans can look forward to Calypso Invasion 2 and disclosed that they have their eyes set on Mahdia although smaller events may be hosted prior to this.

“We plan on taking Calypso Invasion countrywide, in all three counties,” Rebel’s manager noted.

Gratitude was extended to all the artistes who participated, the management and staff of Upscale Restaurant and also special thanks to Young Bill Rogers who was part of the coordinating team.

Special mention was also made of the sponsors; Gizmos and Gadgets, Giftland Officemax, Allen’s Enterprise, Kevin’s Reflections and Payless Variety Store.