Dec. 9, 2008 — It was a joyful setting at Havensight Mall Tuesday evening, with children laughing and playing, delicious scents filling the air, and store owners expressing some optimism over the stuffing of stockings during this economic downturn.
A large crowd of locals and tourists filled the mall's walkways and stores to welcome the holidays at the 24th annual lighting of the Christmas tree.
The Yuletide celebration kicked off at 6 p.m. as the quickly dimming parking lot was once again brought to life by the twinkling of hundreds of colorful bulbs and baubles.
The warm glow of a lighted tree was followed by the arrival of good old St. Nick from the North Pole, handing out gifts to young early birds such as 7-year-old Sean Connor Jr., who held on tightly to his multi-colored caterpillar.
Havensight businesses stayed open late and cruise ships lingered late in port as merchants offered discounts on their wares in hopes spurring shoppers into buying.
Aeron Cogen Hill, owner of Indulge, a new boutique selling clothes, jewelry and fragrances, was optimistic about the amount of holiday shopping an event like this seemed to encourage during the national economic slump.
“I’m very hopeful for the future of the economy," Hill said. "There is a lot of talk about the feeling of hope for a new president, and I’m hoping that there is a solution to fix it."
A few shoppers, including Kattiana Jerome, who browsed many stores, said her holiday shopping would not be affected by the economic decline.
“I usually save up for Christmas, so this year was no different," Jerome explained. "I just practice budgeting.”
No budgeting was required when it came to enjoying local performers, including a group of quadrille dancers from Lockhart Elementary School who were donned in traditional clothing and delighting a group of cheerful onlookers.
“I feel that quadrille is important because you’re learning about your culture,” said one of the dancers, fifth grader, Latisha Liburd.
Angela Barry, who works along Sandra Reed, the group’s instructor, was proud of her group.
“We’ve encouraged the traditional quadrille dance for 10 years," said Barry, regarding the dance that is akin to a square dance and involves four couples. "It’s a very positive outlet for the students and they enjoy it."
Tulip Fleming, a retired educator and owner of a local business called Tropical Creations, was displaying traditional handicrafts including locally-made vases, jars, planters and other containers from coconut, bamboo, calabash and wicker.
Another entrepreneur, Marie Rhymer-Martin, could be seen from afar surrounded by copies of her book, "The Franklin Adventure," which tells the story of two unlikely souls who come together through the love of Virgin Islands culture and mangos.
While enjoying traditional handicrafts, onlookers also celebrated the Christmas spirit courtesy of a variety of seasonal music from Cool Sessions, Spectrum, Milo's Kings, the Bertha C. Boschulte Steel Band and Voices of Love Carolers.
Tuesday's event was sponsored by Havensight Merchants & Professional Association, The West Indian Company, Ltd., Cruzan Rum distributed by Premiere Wine & Spirits, Caribbean Gifts & Things and The Committee to Revive Our Culture.
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