In years gone by, Makinday Johansen and his friends from Give Back Organization, would make Bermuda kites for Good Friday amongst themselves. This year, However, they decided to do it on a much larger scale and have the entire community take part in it.
“ So, my friends Anthony Bailey, Dion Smith and I went to VIBE 103 and spoke on air with DJ Fury and promoted the event,” Mr. Johansen said. “ Truth be told, we did 45 traditional kites and did not expect as big a turnout as we got [yesterday], but when I pulled up and saw the entire TN Tatem parking lot full, I knew we had to get more kites.”
GlamPop helped sponsor yesterday’s event, so every child got a free popcorn bag alongside their Bermuda kite.
“ We were just making the kites among ourselves when a bunch of people came out of the woodwork and started helping us out,” he said. “ We even had some people from the health dept, who gave us some kites that they made during their lunch break. Needless to say, the event was a big success and everyone made kites.”
The next big event that Mr. Johansen and his organization are planning is called “Bikes up, guns down,” aimed at all members of the community, from the oldest to the youngest.
“ ‘ Bikes up, guns down’ started in the US and is aimed at putting an end to gun violence,” he said. “ What perfect timing, I thought. There will be limited free food, a kids’ corner, and motocross bikes on display. We’re looking to get everyone out to have a good time.”
This event will be at Southampton Rangers club next month on May 21, from 12 to 5 p.m.
“ We are going to use our power as an organization to try and reach out to these young men and show them that [violence and killing] is not worth it,” he said. “ another two mothers have lost their children within a week, and we as a community have to stand up and do something. If you know something, please say something.”
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