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April 30, 2007
deJongh applauds all for a successful Carnival Gov. John P. deJongh, Jr. Monday congratulated the Virgin Islands Carnival Committee and everyone who contributed to making the 55th anniversary of V.I. Carnival a huge success. Saturday’s Adult Parade, which last well over eight hours, and the fireworks display were the grand finale of the month-long celebration. "Congratulations to everyone! From the parade entry organizers to the young children who competed in the Prince and Princess and Carnival Queen competitions, to the bands who provided wonderful entertainment and those who worked to organize the ever-popular boat races, all are to be commended for a job well done," said deJongh. DeJongh also lauded those Virgin Islanders who traveled from afar to be a part of the celebration and those who honored our troops. "I was honored to join in the tribute to the Virgin Islands National Guard whose soldiers continue to sacrifice for us in the war effort in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the globe. No matter your feelings about foreign policy, it is right to recognize and acknowledge their efforts for all of us." deJongh singled out the work of the V.I. Police Department for special recognition in providing a high level of safety at the events in Lionel Roberts Stadium, Carnival Village, J’ouvert and along the parade route. "The volunteers of St. Thomas Rescue and St. John Rescue should be recognized for giving freely of themselves and for providing urgent medical care when needed at the various events," deJongh said. The chief executive noted that this year’s Carnival celebration provided the opportunity to honor two young musicians: Sergio "Bolo" Feliciano and Nick Friday. Feliciano was honored by the Carnival Committee which named the 2007 Carnival Village, "Bolo’s Music Studio", in his honor. Friday was honored on Thursday when an East End roadway was dedicated in his memory. "I was pleased to be on hand as we paid tribute to these two musicians who have given so much in advancing the calypso art form," deJongh noted. |
