Carnival reflections:
– Congratulations to everyone who helped make Carnival 2001 so successful. Carnival remains the highlight of the year for so many of us – one grand party to which we're all invited. It's a shame that so many residents turn down that invitation, as evidenced by the results of our recent Source poll. Truly, it is their loss. The tents, the village, Food Fair, J'ouvert, the parades – all offer a chance to celebrate and enjoy the people, the food, the music and color that make these islands so special.
– Kudos to Randy Knight for making the Carnival fireworks a reality again this year. Though others deserve thanks too for helping to sponsor the annual fireworks display, Randy is the driving force behind this splendid gift to our residents and visitors.
– Kudos too to the police who made sure this Carnival, like others, was peaceful and safe. This is no small feat when large crowds gather and spirits run high. The community owes these officers – who give up their own jump-up time – a real debt of gratitude. Ditto for other public servants, including Public Works employees, whose excellent efforts make Carnival more enjoyable for the rest of us.
– Carnival wouldn't be Carnival without some sharply satirical calypsos and the controversy they inevitably provoke. But Sen. Lorraine L. Berry's criticism of the Mighty Chalkdust's "What Goes Around Comes Around" brought on a collective whoops, even from her fans. Lighten up, Lorraine – this is all in the Carnival spirit.
– It is time to revisit the recommendation, made often in the past, to establish a permanent Carnival office within the Tourism Department – or, hopefully soon, under a Tourism Authority. Carnival is big business and, along with the Crucian Christmas Festival and St. John Fourth of July Celebration, could be even bigger with the proper attention and promotion.