Heavy rain failed to dampen the celebrations at the Couva Recreation ground on Sunday when the Caroni District of the Ministry of Community Development hosted its leg of SHINE: Spotlighting Communities to commemorate T&T's 50th anniversary of Independence. Though it got off to a late start, patrons were involved with every aspect of the activities. Children and adults took to the streets when they took part in a street parade from Isaac Junction, Couva, along the main road to the recreation ground.
The formal part of the event began with a welcome by Supervisor I, Deocharan Ramsumair. This was followed by greetings from Susan Corbett, director of the Community Development Division. A special feature at the event was the distribution of awards to members of the community for their contribution to community work. Corbett was joined by former permanent secretary at the ministry, Margaret Farray, in presenting the awards. The entertainment then began with dance presentations from members of the Emmanuel Spiritual Baptist Church Choir, Amritan Shakti Dance Group and Ah We People.
Electric Breakers then took to the stage for an energetic performance of contemporary dance. This was followed by Roger Johnson who sang two songs suited to nation-building and emancipation. There was also a lively performance by the group Moments-a parang band from Tabaquite-as they brought "Christmas in July." The entertainment continued well into the evening as patrons danced, sang and waved flags to the sounds of steelband music provided by Tropical Angel Harps Steel Orchestra of Enterprise, Chaguanas. The evening ended with a 12-minute fireworks display. The event was a gift to the nation by the Ministry of Community Development. Shine Concerts continue on Saturday from 3 pm at the St Joseph Recreation Grounds, St Joseph, and on Sunday at Skinner Park, San Fernando, starting at 5.30 pm. Admission to the concerts is free.