By Gerald V. Paul

Gerald V. Paul photo.
Jamaal Magloire celebrated his 37th birthday with all the bounce one might expect from Toronto’s favourite basketball son.
The former Raptors player and current basketball development consultant was joined by family, friends and members of his Toronto Revellers mas camp at Toronto Botanical Gardens where family member Audette Shephard told The Camera: “Hats off to Jamaal for all he is doing in our community. It speaks volumes as to his character of who he is as a man. I am very proud of him.”
Magloire, whose Revellers mas camp is at 851 Milner Ave. with the theme Presenting the Torch: The Spirit of the Games, is also a Pan Am Games ambassador.
He said this is an important year for Toronto, “as we welcome athletes and their supporters, dignitaries and the international sports community to our city.” He said the Revellers want to take the energy of the games, combined with their love for Carnival, and depict the spirit of the Games through their costumes and events.
“We get to celebrate our Caribbean heritage, along with recognizing Canada’s role in this year’s Games, and all the positive things that take place in the community as a result,” Magloire added.
Magloire’s birthday bash was musically enhanced with New York’s DJ Sounds 4 Life, Soca Vibes, D’Ultimate Sting and DJ Stylez. It was hosted by MC Breton B. And the birthday boy was in musical style, from beating iron to drums.
Among guests spotted at the packed birthday event was Scarborough native and sports mega star Dwayne De Rosario. Magloire noted “Thanks to @dwaynederosario and family for passin’ thru my @torrevellers mas camp this evening to take in the vibe! #Respect.”
Kes is performing exclusively with Toronto Revellers as they are slated for the No. 8 spot at the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Parade. As well, 2015 International Groovy Soca Monarch Olatunji and International Recording artist Lyrikal will also be on the road come Saturday, Aug. 1, with the sections The Flame, Harmony, Pachi, Going for Gold, Envy, The Medalist, Strive for Glory, Wings of Victory, Passion and Power and Glory.
This year, the Revellers also sponsored the cultural costume of Sachi Mahadeo, a national finalist in the Miss World Canada 2015 pageant in British Columbia.
Toronto Revellers are holding weekly Del Monte Family Sundays at the mas camp with free activities, refreshments, and community-building for registered junior masqueraders, their friends and families from 2 to 6 p.m. The Games Junior Revellers’ Pachi costume is sold out but Archery, Swimming, Tennis, and Rhythmic Gymnastics are still available.
Founded in 2006 by Magloire, Toronto Revellers is a collective of over 2,000 masqueraders, volunteers, and designers. Magloire also gives back to the community via his foundation. Toronto Revellers Cultural Association is a non-profit organization that aims to contribute to the multicultural landscape of Canada by promoting, celebrating and exploring the rich diverse culture and traditions of the Caribbean.
