Posthumous Award To Be Presented During Jamaica's Annual Reggae Sumfest, July19-25
KINGSTON, JAMAICA – July 17, 2009 – The 17th Annual Reggae Sumfest which takes place in Jamaica's tourism capital Montego Bay, will pay homage to the "King of Pop" and legendary performer Michael Jackson. As part of its tribute, Reggae Sumfest officials will posthumously present a Lifetime Achievement Award to the late entertainer.
It was announced by the Reggae Sumfest organizers that members of the Jackson family will be in attendance on International Night Two of the world's premiere reggae festival on Saturday, July 25 at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre in Montego Bay, in order to accept the award.
It is understood that the family will present a plaque of appreciation to the people of Jamaica.
"We are delighted that Sumfest will dedicate this year's staging to the memory of this international icon," Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett said. "We feel privileged to have the Jackson family here in Jamaica to receive this honor on his behalf and also to enjoy what our unique Jamaican culture has to offer." 
In honor of the special night dedicated to Michael Jackson, Tito Jackson and his band will also be performing. The last time the Jackson Five performed in Jamaica was in 1975.
About Reggae Sumfest
First staged in 1993, Reggae Sumfest quickly became the world's premiere reggae music event.  The festival showcases the best of Dancehall and Reggae music, as well as top R & B/Hip Hop performers and offers delicious Jamaican cuisine and arts and crafts. Each year, the event attracts more than 30,000 patrons to the tourist capital of Montego Bay.
About Jamaica Tourist Board
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean's Leading Tourist and Convention Bureau by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2008, while Jamaica earned the WTA's vote as the World's Leading Cruise Destination, the Caribbean's Leading Destination and the Caribbean's Leading Cruise Destination.
JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Düsseldorf, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam and Tokyo.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the Jamaica Tourist Board's Web site at www.visitjamaica.com, or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422).
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Contact:
Helen Ames
1-877-JTB-NEWS
amesh@ruderfinn.com
