By Derrick Scott, Information Attache (Jamaican Embassy, USA) Published: April 22, 2014
Photo by: JIS Photographer, Dr. Dennis Johnson, CD (centre), receives the Pioneer Award from Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB), Iwine G. Clare Sr. (left), at TJB’s annual reception and awards ceremony, held at St. Francis College in Downtown Brooklyn, New York, on April 17. At right is Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Mr. Herman LaMont.
One of the country’s outstanding sprinters, Dr. Dennis Johnson, CD, was honoured by Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB), on April 17, at its annual reception and awards ceremony, held at St. Francis College in downtown Brooklyn, New York.
In addition to receiving the Pioneer Award, Dr. Johnson made history by being recognized by three branches of the US Government as a true icon of the Caribbean.
He was presented with a United States House of Representatives Proclamation from the office of US Congresswoman, Yvette D. Clarke; A New York State Assembly Citation from the office of Assemblyman, N. Nick Perry and a New York City Council Citation from the office of Council Member, Jumaane D. Williams.
Dr. Johnson was a standout as a young athlete drawing wide acclaim as a student at the San Jose State University. He went on to have a stellar career in sport development and is often referred to as the grandfather and architect of Jamaica’s track prowess.
Presenting the TJB Pioneer award to Dr. Johnson, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Irwine Clare, spoke of the greatness of Dennis Johnson, his love for country, his commitment to the youth and opening doors for those who came after him.
Among the several dignitaries and community leaders present were: Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Mr. Herman G. LaMont, who was also honorary patron; Consul General of St. Vincent and The Grenadines to New York, Mr. Selmon Walters; Deputy Consul General of Grenada to New York, Ms. Omyma David; New York State Assemblyman, N. Nick Perry; and Deputy Permanent Representative of Botswana to the United Nations; Nkoloi Nkoloi.
