The Rotary Club of Barbados launched its 26th Carols by Candlelight annual event. This year the show returned to the Globe Drive-In on Saturday 11th and Sunday12th of December 2021 at 6pm.
President Robin noted that many Barbadians and Visitors look forward to this event and he believes that it is now part our Bajan tradition. This annual event is the club's major fundraiser and Robin outlined just a few of the community projects completed in recent years:
- Provided over 200 tablets to Ministry of Education to assist students with online learning
- Supported the Blood Donor Center
- Provided support to the Diabetes Association to assist in purchasing new equipment
- Created Sustainable Living Kitchen Gardens for needed families
- Built and maintained School signs to assist in keeping our children safe
- Installation of water tanks at six secondary schools in the north of the island.
He noted "this would not have been possible without the continued support of everyone including corporate Barbados."
The Committee Chair - President Elect Ms. Tracey Knight-Lloyd was pleased to announce that our annual event was named as one of the top 12 Bajan Christmas traditions and that she was happy that our club has been successful in maintaining this tradition.
She noted that last year "we pivoted in response to the global pandemic, and we were able to host a very successful show at the Globe Drive in! This year is no different. We return to the Globe Drive In."
The President Elect stated that "we could not do any of this this without our partners—and today we salute and thank our esteemed sponsors. We know that in times like these corporate sponsorships are difficult to secure as many companies are facing declining revenues, and so today the Rotary Club of Barbados is thrilled at your commitment to our cause. We are grateful that over the years we have built up such a reputation and a stellar product that many of you have supported the club over the years and will continue to do so"
Our Sponsors: Capital Media, First Citizens Bank, Sagicor Life and Sagicor General, CBC Barbados, Signia Globe Finance, ICBL, Barbados Light and Power, Emera, Clarity Life Insurance, Cidel, Trident, Digicel and A One Supermarkets. President Elect Tracey reiterated “sincere gratitude to you all for believing in this Club and by extension supporting our worthy causes."
She encouraged patrons to purchase their tickets early (given the limited numbers) at a cost of $65 per car from any member of the Rotary Club of Barbados, Carlton and A One supermarket, Emerald City, A&B Music Supplies in Wildey or Party Occasions at Sheraton Mall.
The Committee Chair noted that traditionally patrons normally drop a new toy, a new book, or any new gift for children ages 1 to 12 years old on entry however, given the current need in our communities the club is asking patrons to donate (where possible) one canned item of food to allow for distribution of food hampers to those in need.
As it relates to entertainment, she informed the media and sponsors that our very own Past President Norman has worked to ensure we have a stellar line up of performers and the Club will deliver a show suited for everyone –showcasing the island’s best entertainers!
In keeping with established protocols - a limited number of persons were allowed to participate in this year's media launch. In attendance was the media, sponsor representatives, artistes’ representation, and of course the Rotary Club of Barbados support team.
The club looks forward to hosting everyone at the Globe Drive-In!