July 18, 2011Dear Sir,As I headed out the door for work today, I had a smile on my face for two main reasons: (a) I was thanking God for allowing me to see another day ... and (b) Last night, I had the privilege of attending “Najee”, live in concert at the ‘Cavendish Park’, right here in Bermuda. For those folk who are not familiar with “Najee”, or with the music that he plays, he is an internationally recognised saxophonist who hails from New York City, and his music genre is smooth jazz.As with most concerts, one doesn’t really know what to expect until you arrive at the location, which incidentally was at ‘Cavendish’ Park, located next to Island Trading Company on Reid Street east. This was a unique location in that it is normally used as a large car park for the surrounding businesses. This car park overlooking Hamilton Harbour was transformed into the perfect concert setting under the stars. The event (as advertised) started promptly at 6.30pm, with the introduction of the former BET jazz show host from Washington DC, the lovely Angela Stribling, who specifically came in as host, and moderator for this exciting event. The show got on the way with an array of local talent, Mt Zion Male Voice Choir, Genamon, The Bermuda All Star Steel Band, Sonique Sanctuary to warm up the crowd of jazz enthusiasts.Then it was Najee’s time, for he was the main reason everyone was there. He played many hits from his several CDs from over the years, and the crowd responded with loud cheering, and frequent standing ovations. Following Najee’s captivating performance, they next brought to the stage, the one man that made this enormous event possible ... The Music Man himself, Wendell (Shine) Hayward. Mr Hayward worked tirelessly, and managed to recapture the magic of the previous music festivals held over the years here at home.And for his efforts, all in attendance (including The Chief Patron — Governor Sir Richard Gozney) and Minister of Tourism, Patrice Minors stood and gave him a much deserved standing ovation. And just like all good things, this fantastic concert came to an end. However, the evening was not over yet, because Shine invited everyone to the after party located at of course, just next door at Shine’s House of Music & Entertainment. Shine made mention that he would like to see a similar event such as he had staged last night, become an annual event. Let’s give him our support that he rightfully deserves, to help make this possible.BOB S SMITHSouthampton