Found at: http://www.anguillaguide.com/article/articleprint/5577/-1/135/
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THE VALLEY COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY "Christmas With A Positive Message"
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Hundreds of island residents and tourists crowded Coronation Ave and the Christmas tree by the trough on Friday December 14 to witness the annual tree lighting ceremony. The event was headlined by other various performances from The All ah Wee Theatre Group, The Anguilla Pepper Steppers and the Energetic Superflies String Band.
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Youth performance at Christmas Tree Lighting
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Throughout the ceremony, Santa Claus sat to the right of the stage in his sleigh while many children congregated beneath him hoping to catch his attention. Two main addresses were given by The Honourable Minister of Finance Mr. Victor Banks and Giesel Francis, Cable & Wireless Marketing Manager.
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Victor Banks with Santa Claus in the background
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Mr. Banks spoke highly of the event but also took the opportunity to speak on behalf of the Government and people to express their disgust with the recent tragic violence that resulted in the stabbing death of a young man. He said, “this is a very special evening in The Valley community. This year is especially important for us to show our appreciation to all those who have contributed to this event over the past twelve years. I would like to particularly talk about the loved ones who died tragically at the hand of violence during this time. To the parents, we commiserate with them because we understand what loss is and how difficult it can be especially at Christmas time when it is supposed to be about family.”
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The Pepper Steppers in action
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Giesel Francis represented Cable & Wireless who has generously supported this endeavour for the past three years to the tune of EC $20,000, making them the Official Platinum Sponsors. She mentioned how proud she was of the organizers of the event as they hadsacrificed to make it happen at such a high level. She also apologized for not having anya gifts to distribute to the children this year due to the fact that the container was not able to be off loaded in a timely manner, due to the rough sea. It was mentioned however that Cable & Wireless will distribute those gifts at Kiddies Day which will take place this Saturday, at 12 pm, and is being done by the Interact Club.
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The beautifully lit Valley Christmas Tree
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After the vote of thanks, the switch was turned on and the entire street became illuminated. People remained around the area to enjoy the music and experience fellowship. The lights will remain until mid January and is a highlight for tourists and residents alike.
- Jason Allen