July 16, 2007 — It was a day for family this past weekend at Elizabeth's at the Palms as fans braved the rainy weather — and the possibility of a head cold — to see some of their favorite island celebrities at Sun Stroke Promotions' Celebrity Beach Bash.
No one seemed even slightly discouraged as children continued to play in and around the water, bouncing in tents and squealing down an inflatable water slide. Those dressed to impress simply sought shelter against what begun as a soft drizzle.
Event promoter and Isle 95 "Big Fat Morning Show" host, Rashidi Clenence, said he organized the beach party to showcase talent coming from the Caribbean, particularly St. Croix. "It's good to let the kids see a success story from here," Clenence said.
Hanik Milligan is one such success story. The 27-year-old Crucian moved to Florida at a young age, but Milligan has never been away from home for too long. "I come down here every opportunity I get," said the Arizona Cardinals defensive back.
Now in his fifth season with the NFL, Milligan said he loves everything about being a part of the game of football. "Even the boos," he said. "(At away games), the boos mean you're doing something good."
Football fan Anthony Butcher said he hadn't heard of Milligan before that Sunday. After finding out that Milligan was from St. Croix and had tackled Devon Hester of the Chicago Bears, Butcher became an instant fan. "He has to be good to do that," the 13-year-old said.
Some partygoers used the time to be responsible about their sexual lives by getting tested for HIV. V.I. Community AIDS Resource and Education (VICARE) was on hand testing more than 20 people and handing out condoms, T-shirts and educational pamphlets. "We are overjoyed because the young people seem willing to be tested," said volunteer Iris Hall.
"We're trying to put the stigmas to rest," added test administrator Thomas Williams. Both Hall and Williams said many people still believe that HIV is a disease that only affects homosexuals and that people in relationships are safe from infection. Hall said it was important that those who chose not to get tested at least read information they provided to educate the community on safer sex and living healthier lives.
By the time UMB Soldiers hit the small stage, the rain had begun to come down steadily. Those seeking shelter crowded together and swayed to the infectious rhythm. By the middle of the band's set, many could not contain the party animal inside of them and ventured out into the rain to celebrate with the band. The antics continued as Clenence himself took center stage, walking and jumpin' "like a jumbie."
Sen. Terrence "Positive" Nelson attended the event to participate in the celebrity volleyball tournament. Because of the rain, Nelson was unable to showcase his athleticism, but the senator commended Clenence on his organization and promotion of the event. Many of the territory's children aren't exposed to a resort environment like Elizabeth's, Nelson said, applauding Clenence on his choice of locale. Most admirable, Nelson said, was Clenence's ability to organize and fund the event "without soliciting help from the government."
Scattered through the crowd, many could see their favorite member of BET's No. 1-rated show, "College Hill." Chicky, Idesha and the controversial Vanessa hugged fans and signed autographs while British Virgin Islands crooner Lincoln Ward fittingly performed his number-one hit, "Soaking Wet," as the rain finally let up.
The party ended with St. Thomas carnival's road march champs the JDPP (Juvenile Detention Prevention Program) Jammers. As the night sky darkened and the stars dotted the sky, everyone jumped and bounced to their hit "Bunny Train."
When Taitzion Johnson was asked what he liked best about the day, the eight-year-old said: "I liked the water slide." Johnson thought briefly and added: "The best part was spending time with my family."
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