The Fort Christian parking lot was bursting at the seams Monday from sunset until early Tuesday morning as thousands of Virgin Islanders turned out for opening night at the 2001 Carnival Village, dubbed "Dotsy's Kallaloo Pot" in honor of tradition bearer and Carnival stalwart Dorothy "Dotsy" Elskoe.
A "Who's Who" of the Virgin Islands community was on hand for the opening ceremonies. Gov. Charles W. Turnbull promised the crowd he would join the Elskoe and Associates troupe for the 50th anniversary of modern-day Carnival next year. As he paid tribute to Elskoe, the governor recalled that he had "jumped up at many a Carnival, including the first one."
Turnbull described Elskoe as "the pillar and matriarch of Carnival." Other elected leaders offering congratulations to the honoree included her son-in-law, Senate President Almando "Rocky" Liburd, and Lt. Gov. Gerard Luz James. The Carnival 2001 royalty — Queen Cherrisse Woods, Prince Omari Williams and Princess Brittany Rodriquez — was also on hand.
Making presentations to Elskoe were members of her Carnival troupe; Edward Thomas of The West Indian Co., the primary village sponsor this year; businessman Neil Weiss; and Hovensa.
In her remarks, Elskoe recalled her involvement in Carnival from the time of its rebirth in 1952. "I have been involved in all aspects of Carnival, from costume making to forming my own troupe," she told the audience. "I am very honored to be this year's honoree."
After the ceremonies, the Eudora Kean High School Devil Rays steelband and perennial Carnival favorite Jam Band entertained. There will be live music in the Village each night this week. For a list of who's playing when, see the continuously updated unofficial Source guide to Carnival that's posted at both the Community/Other stuff and Showcase sections of St. Thomas Source.