Sept. 13, 2007 — The Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Celebration kicks into high gear with the Queen selection Sunday.
"VI-PR Friendship A Partnership for Success" is this year's theme.
The annual observance celebrates the rich history and ties that bind Puerto Rico to the Virgin Islands.
Two young women, UVI freshman Shenelle Brady, 21, and Educational Complex senior, Solgisselle Torres, 17 will compete for the crown in a fashion show that will emphasis local history.
The contestants will show off their talent, modeling and oratorical skills. They will display their cultural wear and participate in dance selections. The topic of their speech is: "What this year's theme means to me." Hispanos Unidos will dance "The Language of the Fan." Other guest appearances will be by Kevin Swanston Mr. St. Croix 2005/2006 and Chantal Harrigan, Crucian Summer Star finalist.
Other activities during the month include a presentation of the Hispanic book collection at the Florence Williams Library. More than 500 books written in Spanish are being collected from various sources, said committee member Zorida Jacobs. "We encourage the Spanish speaking population to utilize this extensive collection."
New to this years' activities is the "Areyto" a family fun day in the grounds of the historical Whim Museum. The committee, headed by chairperson Vera M. Falu, will for the first time honor some the first families who migrated to the Virgin Islands from Puerto Rico and Vieques.
Heres the complete schedule:
— Sun. Sept 16, 6 p.m. VI/PR Queen Show at the Frederick D. Dorsch Cultural Activity Center, Strand Street, Frederiksted
— Sat. Sept. 29, 8 p.m. Island Center Cultural Presentation "Shared Roots"
— Sun, Sept. 30, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. "AREYTO" – A family affair at Estate Whim Plantation Museum
— Friday – Monday Oct. 5 – 8 p.m. The Friendship Village opens at 7 p.m.
— Sun. Oct 7 Governor's Award Ceremony to Pioneer Families and Lifetime Achievement Award at Government House (invitation only)
— Fri. Oct. 12 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Florence Williams Library. Presentation of the Hispanic Collection, poetry recitals and readings performed in both Spanish and English.
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