PLANS are well in hand for the fourth Annual Dr. Charles Drew Memorial / Court Street Health Fair set for Saturday of next week. It will be held on Court Street between Dundonald Street and the next block north between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

As usual it is being sponsored by Members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The president of the local chapter, Montell Currin, said the aim of the fair was to provide free health care screenings and counselling to the general public and those who do not routinely seek medical advice.

The fair is being held in the name of Dr. Drew, who through his pioneering research into blood plasma preservation devised the now-universal blood bank, revolutionising the medical profession.

An Omega brother from the US, Dr. Stephen Broomes, who, with his family, had been frequent visitors to Bermuda for nearly 20 years, conceived the idea of the fair.

He was a specialist at the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital when the event came to fruition in 2001 with the assistance of chapter brothers and support of the local community.

They considered Court Street to be an area well suited for such an endeavour as theirs. Currin explained: "This year we are implementing two new components to the programme that will bring more awareness to the health fair.

"As many in the community take advantage of Bermuda's beauty by participating in walking activities, this year we will kick off the health fair with a fun walk-a-thon. A donation from proceeds will be made to the Bermuda Diabetes Association.

"Also, we have encountered over the years questions such as, 'why or who is or was Dr. Charles Drew'? In response to those questions, we will invite The Berkeley Institute senior boys to participate in an essay contest by making submissions on the topic of 'Dr. Charles R. Drew; What Have We Gained From His Research'?"

Omega man Devrae Noel-Simmons, who is one of the coordinators of the fund raising entertainment at the fair, explained: "The Health Fair is sponsored by Butterfield Bank and garnishes the support of several other local and international organisations.

"Proceeds will be donated to the Omega Scholarship Fund and the Charles Drew Court Street Beautification Project.

"Over 300 health care professionals and volunteers provide free services including: Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings, drug and alcohol counselling/education, breast cancer and women's health awareness, HIV counselling, dietary counselling, mental health services/education, as well as others.

"In addition to the services provided, we coordinate a full slate of entertainment including musicians, dancers, choirs, youth ensembles, and of course, an Omega step show.

"Popcorn and drinks will be on sale and an array of prizes will be raffled to participating attendants."

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., was founded in 1911 at Howard University, Washington, DC.

Mr. Currin said it is committed to the principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.

"The four distinguished founders were men of the very highest ideals and intellect and accordingly the fraternity continues to attract men of similar ideals and characteristics," he said.

The Zeta Lambda Lambda Chapter was chartered in Bermuda on November 3, 2001 and attained registered charity status in 2002. To learn more about Omega Psi Phi, visit the fraternity's web site at http://www.oppf.org/.