BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Green Valley Committee held a brief press conference earlier today (May 29) at Maynard’s Park in Cayon, where LIME Marketing Executive Dian Arthurton handed over a cheque for $8 000 on behalf of the company.
Clifford Griffin, Chairman of Sponsorship and Marketing, thanked LIME once again for their partnership with the festival, adding they are very grateful as it is not easy to organise a festival of that magnitude.
Also present was acting Chairperson Sheila Morris and head of the Queen Show Sub-committee Velda Irish. Morris also thanked LIME for being with them over the years and said although the amount is not what they are used to giving, they greatly appreciate the company for still being onboard.
She said the Green Valley Festival is in its 13th year but not without glitches. “We have had two factors fighting, with the first one being crime and the other the economic downturn,” she said, adding at no point had they considered cancelling the event.
“A festival is an avenue for people to socialise and it brings people together…and as long as people are together that is a great deed,” Morris said. She explained that Green Valley not only puts back into the community by giving donations to schools, sick people and persons in need, but it also generates income for the Federation as many people reserve this time to come home.
Morris added that many people have been saying they are scared to go to Cayon because of the crime situation, but she assured persons that they treat their guest with utmost care and attention and would have proper security in place.
Irish extended invitation to all and sundry to the pageant being held tonight, noting that it would be an exciting event. She also assured that the contestants are all prepared and a special surprise is in store.
Arthurton, while presenting the cheque, said it is a pleasure to pattern with Green Valley as she wishes everyone a fulfilled weekend. She said that LIME is committed to continue the legacy, as the festival is an opportunity for people to come together not just as a community but as one. She further added that the funds are geared mainly towards the J’Ouvert and Parade of Troupes celebrations.
The Green Valley Festival goes into full swing tonight with the staging of the annual Miss Green Valley Pageant, followed by the Senior Calypso Monarch show tomorrow.
On Sunday, the International Night will see three performers out of St. Croix - Volcano, Mada Nile and Xcaliba - which kicks off at 9:30 p.m. The festival will end on Monday with the J’Ouvert Morning Jump Up and an approximate eight Parade of Troupes and Last Lap session at Maynard Park.
