Large numbers of children, up to fourteen years old, not attending the various late-night carnival shows at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre, will have their own entertainment during the day and evening hours. They will be entertained at a mini “Coney Island” on the grounds of The Valley Primary School.
The mass of equipment, with glittering lights and a large variety of colourful components to provide paid entertainment at reasonable prices, was brought in by Anguillian Mr. Alexander Hodge. He is originally from Island Harbour, but resides in French Quarter, St. Martin, with his family. By weekend, he should have all of his equipment set up and in operation for the next several weeks.
Chairman of the Anguilla Summer Festival, Mr. John Benjamin, welcomed Hodge and his family to the island and offered them his best wishes in undertaking to entertain the children.
“We have the bumper cars, the merry-go-round, planes, bouncer castles and different games for children and I am planning to get the ferris wheel for next year,” Mr. Hodge told The Anguillian. “We are based in French Quarter, but often move all over St. Martin/St. Maarten to entertain children. We wanted to come to Anguilla since last year, but never found the right person to make arrangements with, but I got in touch with Mr. Benjamin through one of my clients – a shipping agent in Anguilla – and he connected me to Mr. Benjamin. I was here two weeks ago to discuss a contract agreement and everything else. He wanted me to come because this year carnival in Anguilla is very big.”
Mr. Hodge was asked about the entry fees to ‘Coney Island’. “I have the same price I charge in St. Martin/St. Maarten, although I had to pay the shipping costs to come here,” he stated. “The Customs didn’t charge me the full [duties] because I am doing something for the children, so I haven’t changed the price. I left it at [US] three dollars [per service and time], and according to how many tickets you buy, you get a better price.”
He was questioned about ensuring that the children are safe. “Everything is up-to-date for their safety and protection, and all the various pieces of equipment are inspected by someone from France every year,” he replied. He promised that everyone would enjoy the fun he would be providing in an attractive setting.
