Winfest 2009 officially launched at Brick-Kiln

CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – CHAIRMAN of the Nevis Cultural Foundation, Halstead ‘Sooty’ Byron has commended the St. James’ Festival Committee for hosting Winfest in what he described as a challenging year of economic conditions facing Nevis and the world.

Byron, who was speaking at the opening ceremony of Winfest 2009 at Brick-Kiln on Thursday night (May 28), said that apart from acquiring sponsors it is also difficult to get people to volunteer for these festivals, unlike years gone by.

According to Byron, it is in light of these conditions that kudos must go out to the committee for keeping the torch burning and ensuring there is at least one community festival on Nevis. He challenged other communities to follow St. James’ example so there could be at least five such festivals each year. 

Byron, who is also a member of the Culturama Committee, said that having community festivals in the build-up to Nevis’ biggest cultural event helps to make it a much bigger affair. He said it makes the work of the Committee so much easier.

“Culturama should be a manifestation of what goes on in Nevis throughout the year in terms of culture.” 

Byron also said he was impressed with the strides made by Winfest since its inception in 2007, but would like to see it grow a bit more into something that the St. James Parish would be proud of. He suggested that organisers start by including a queen show, a talented teens show and a mother and daughter pageant.

Byron also urged Winfest organisers to include a parade in the 2010 programme. 

While explaining that a major concern of the Culturama Committee and the Foundation is the preservation of the Nevis culture, Byron also said communities need to encourage more socialising between the youths and older people. He said this could build respect and help foster a return to the communal-like setting of years gone by.

Also addressing the opening ceremony was its Chairman Delroy ‘Iroy’ Pinney and area representative, the Hon. Patrice Nisbett who declared the festival open.

Other activities on the programme included the honoring of the festival’s patron, Felecia Hicks, with a plaque and a bouquet. The presentation was made by Winfest Committee Executive Chairman Pearlievan Wilkin. 

Hicks later flipped the switch to turn on the lights on the Winfest tree.