Allanis Rogers and Evan McNiel Rogers cutting the tape for the start of the Summer Festival.
ANGUILLA--Music, speeches, introductions of pageant contestants, fireworks, and even a few refreshing raindrops at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre on Thursday evening, August 2, marked the official opening of Anguilla’s 2018 Summer Festival.
Lisa Rey, Chairperson of the Anguilla Summer Festival Committee welcomed the crowd gathered to celebrate the Festival’s opening. She said, “We have been on a mission to elevate the level of the Summer Festival in spite of the infrastructure challenges resulting from the ravages of hurricane Irma. We have a committed team who made every effort to ensure that everything was ready for tonight’s event.”
She thanked the booth operators for their patience as electrical issues were addressed, and thanked the many festival sponsors and the government for their monetary contributions which lessened the committee’s financial burdens.
All contestants competing in the Prince and Princess Show, the Talented Teens Contest and the Miss Anguilla Queen Pageant were presented. They all took the opportunity to introduce themselves, giving a little insight into their personality and expectations of their Festival participation.
Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Sports Cardigan Connor remarked that Anguilla’s Summer Festival is built on its culture, honouring the historical perspective of emancipation and the boat racing tradition. He said, “The Festival is an excellent platform to showcase the talent of the people while aiding in Anguilla’s cultural, economic and human capital development.”
Governor Tim Foy wished all present a safe and happy Summer Festival and thanked the behind-the-scenes contributors who worked long and hard to make the Festival happen. He also said the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) has put procedures into place to ensure a safe and peaceful Festival.
RAPF Commissioner Paul Morrison spent a few minutes detailing actions that the RAPF, along with security personnel, would enforce throughout the Festival to ensure everyone’s safety. He noted that security would be tight, random searches would be conducted, and asked the public to comply with police and security directives. Drinks will be served in plastic cups and containers only.
Carrying weapons of any sort, or fighting, will result in those persons being removed and detained. Traffic and parking guidelines along parade routes and at Sandy Ground will be posted and enforced – towing will be at owner’s expense. He also advised that expensive jewellery be minimised, and advised that homes be kept secured with good perimeter lighting.
Minister of Social Development Evan McNiel Rogers then took the stage, accompanied by Allanis Rogers, the 2017 Tiny Tots 2nd runner-up, to officially cut the ribbon signifying the opening of the 2018 summer festival and signalling for the fireworks display to begin.
