BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE atmosphere was relaxed and inviting at the headquarters of the People’s Action Movement (PAM) yesterday (May 2) where the customary May Day All Day Affair was held.
From 7:30 in the morning down into the late hours of the evening the headquarters was a hub of activity, providing food, entertainment and company for the many individuals who visited and partook of the offerings.
Deputy Chairperson of the PAM Vanessa Phipps, speaking with this publication, explained that during the course of the day patrons were treated to a lovely breakfast, an appetizing lunch and mouth-watering Kittitian-styled dishes for later into the afternoon into the evening.
Breakfast included an assortment of bush tea and tea bag options, salt fish, sausages, eggs, salads and breadfruit cheesy, with lunch including pork, fish, mutton, chicken, seasoned rice, rice and peas, rice and greens, macaroni pie, scalloped potatoes and the grub for later in the afternoon/evening included cook-up, goat water and conch chowder.
Food and drinks were but one part of the experience. Having taken a walk through the compound, it was observed that several casual conversations were being held among groups of men while playing dominoes, groups of women while catching up on old times and by children who were prancing around excitedly on the bouncing castle.
Phipps indicated that during the morning and most of the afternoon, the crowds were transient with individuals popping in to grab either breakfast or lunch.
“Initially, when we started, the focus was on breakfast and that is still in the minds of most people, but as we move people are getting into the idea that it is a whole day event. Some people come for breakfast, leave then come back for the band. Some come and enjoy breakfast and then lunch then leave, so there is something here for everybody. It is a personal preference….”
Phipps told SKNVibes that the Small Axe Band was slated to provide entertainment during the evening from about 8:00 at which point it was expected that the crowd would have thickened considerably.
“When the band picks up, sometimes we can’t find ourselves. It gets very hectic so we are enjoying the lull now because we know what is to come later,” she explained.
