Gareth Davis Sr, Star Writer

It was a capacity crowd, which crammed Natures Way Park in Buff Bay, Portland, to celebrate Daryl Vaz's birthday bash.

The man, who is dubbed the 'bulldozer', or 'Mr fix' it by others, was celebrating his birthday, decided to do so in the constituency of West Portland - as a mark of respect and thanks to the electorate, which supported him in the general election of 2007.

"I just saw it necessary to present the people of West Portland with the perfect gift for Christmas," he said. "Many have not had the opportunity to see top reggae performers, unless they visit stage shows. I deliberately choose Portland instead of an all-inclusive location, which would have attracted only the rich and famous."

crowd in a frenzy

And a better location could not have been selected by the state minister in charge of Special Project, as the facility also boasted two streams floating alongside both sides of the Natures Way park, enhanced by lush vegetation, fruit trees, and a cool December breeze.

The birthday bash came alive with the introduction of Desmond 'Ninja Man' Ballentine, who had the crowd in a frenzy with his cutting lyrics, which were primarily aimed at DJ Merciless.

Ninja Man also issued a stern warning to Bounty Killer and Beenie Man, saying that sting would be the funeral place for any who wishes to challenge him.

International artiste Shaggy, was easily the ladies favourite, as he performed hits like Angel and Strength Of A Woman.

Captain Barkey and Wickerman brought their usual humour to the stage, while Etana, was smooth and dazzling.

Spice, who started out with lewd lyrics, quickly regained consciousness and gave a favourable performance.

The stage was set earlier by cameo performances from John Holt and George Nooks, who both had the crowd screaming for more.

variety of favourites

The performance of the night, however, arguably came from the Alliance, headed by Bounty Killer and Movado, who literally ripped the stage apart with a variety of favourites.

Mavado, supported by Bounty killer, also urged the youths to desist from crime and violence, while calling on artistes to promote peace, love, and unity.

Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture, Olivia 'babsy' Grange, who celebrated with her colleague, had high praises for the birthday bash. She explained that residents have been given a high quality complimentary entertainment package, as a mark of appreciation from Mr Vaz.

annual event

The stage show, which had a schedule cut off time of 3:15 a.m Friday, ended at 3:00 a.m, with the birthday MP pledging to make it an annual event.

Other distinguished guests present were senators, Warren Nuby and Tom Tavares-Finson, Education Minister, Andrew Holness, deputy leader of the Jamaica Labour Party, James Robertson, Mayor of Port Maria- Richard Creary, JLP member, Don Creary, MP Thorn Peralto, along with G2K general secretary, Richard Porteous.