It commenced on Thursday, December 10, with opening prayers by Assistant Anglican Priest, Rev. Menes Hodge, followed by remarks shared by Othlyn Vanterpool, Special Assistant in the Ministry of Social Development, and Jerome Roberts, Chairman of the Festival. Mr. Roberts stated that the event was a two-fold one: to bring the community together at the festive season; and to raise funds to assist the Morris Vanterpool Primary School at East End and the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School at Island Harbour. The official opening was done by Mr. Othlyn Vanterpool and three children representing the school. The Exodus Band later entertained the gathering with several hits that brought the curtains down at 12.45 a.m.

On Friday evening, December 11, the Third Miss Digicel Mature show took place with four contestants vying for the 2009 crown. Ms Joylyn Carty of South Valley captured the crown after performing very well in the areas of introductory speech, Digi-wear, talent and evening wear.

The festive activities continued on Sunday, December 13 with the Tropical Distributors-sponsored domino competition. Some five teams participated in this year’s competition. Last year’s winners, the Police, lost to the K9 team, now the 2009 winners.

During the course of the day, the first sponsored Social Security cycle race took place. It involved two categories: the Seniors and A+. Some 11 cyclists participated in the event.

Festival D’ Noel continued on Monday, December 14, with a kids talent competition; a bingo evening on Tuesday, December 15, a calypso song competition on Wednesday, December 16; a Gospel concert on Thursday, December 17; and an international show on Friday, December 18, bringing the festival to a close.

Emmanuel Methodist Church congregation flanked by Rev. Dr. Niles (left) and Rev. Lloyd (right)

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