PM Spencer, Actor Boris Kodjoe and Harold Lovell View photo »

Prime Minister the Hon. Baldwin Spencer lead a major promotional effort of Antigua and Barbuda at the Mayor of Atlanta USA Annual Masked Ball at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis over the weekend.

Prime Minister Spencer who was the special guest of honour of Mayor of Atlanta Shirley Franklin, along with Tourism Minister the Hon. Harold Lovell and Director of Tourism North America Derede Samuel-Whitlock used the opportunity to promote the country by engaging business executives of major US companies including Coca Cola, Macy's, Anheusser-Bushch, Inc., and major film stars including Dawn Lewis, Clifton Davis and Boris Kodjoe.

In discussions with former Mayor of Atlanta and Civil Rights Activist Andrew Young, Actor and Pastor Clifton Davis and Actor Boris Kodjoe plans were explored for the development of closer links with their various organizations in an effort to promote Antigua and Barbuda as the ideal tourist destination.

Prime Minister Spencer said that the spin-off effect from Antigua and Barbuda's participation in the event will be great as the thousands in attendance will make mention of Antigua and Barbuda to many others.

Antigua and Barbuda which was a Presenting Sponsor of the 22nd Annual Mayor's Masked Ball, which raised over one million US dollars for the United Negro College Fund, received commendations for supporting the event. The island was also highlighted in the souvenir magazine with a full page advertisement.

The event also featured performances from the Clark Atlanta University Jazz orchestra, International Opera Singer Kathye Gary and singer Stephanie Mills.

Digital photos by Maurice F. Merchant