Children of Hedonism II staff awarded bursaries by Bubbly Bares

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

Western Bureau:

The United States-based Bubbly Bares Travel Group has come up with a novel way to translate their love for Jamaica. They recently made cash donations, which would contribute to the educational development of several children of employees of Hedonism II Resort in Negril.

"This is the 30th anniversary of the Bubbly Bares," said Howard Harinstein, a member of the group. "What we have done is a part of our efforts to give back to the employees at Hedonism II, who have given us great service whenever we visit."

Harinstein, who is an integral part of the group, which has made a hobby out of travelling, made his 108th visit to Jamaica last month. He has been a repeat guest at Hedonism II for the past 31 years.

"I have developed some great relationships with the staff here, some of whom have been here since the first time I visited, so I have a passion for honouring them for their great service," said Harinstein. "Being able to assist with their children's education is something we would like to continue to do."

The Bubbly Bares Travel Group came into being in 1982 when founders Tom and Joyce Holroyd visited Jamaica for the first time and fell in love with the island and the friendliness of the Jamaican people, especially those they met at Hedonism II.

SHARING EXPERIENCES

When they returned home to the United States, they shared their wonderful experience with other friends. Each time they stayed at Hedonism II, they made new friends, who became a part of their core group of travellers. To date, the group has close to 400 members and owns a rock band.

In their most recent act of generosity, the Bubbly Bares members handed out cash bursaries to 10 children of Hedonism II employees who achieved an average of at least 85 per cent in their school-based examinations.

"This is the first year we are doing this, and we would like to make it an annual thing," said Harinstein. "We will see how best we can do so by raising funds, but it is something we would definitely like to continue."