There was a record turnout of youngsters and families for the TelEm Group Family Fun Park event on the company’s parking lot Sunday.
More than 2000 excited guests turned out on the day, braving stormy clouds ahead, to take part in a host of activities for all ages.
"The Family Fun Park just keeps getting bigger and better every time it is set up for the youth and for family entertainment," said event coordinator Angel Richardson.
She said despite getting off to a slow start because of the prospect of rain, the rainclouds held back and people literally poured in from the later afternoon until the Family Fun Park came to a close at 7:00 in the evening.
"Everyone had a ball, especially the children. We have to thank TelEm Group management, the host of volunteers from the company and from the St. Dominic School who turned out to assist and also to Gitridge Marketing and Consulting, who jointly organized the event with Telem," continued Angel.
She said parents are repeating the call for the Fun Park to become a twice-annual event for St. Maarten’s youth as a contribution from TelEm Group towards the positive uplifting of the island’s youth.
"Many parents told us there is a great need for these kind of activity for the children and especially for families so that parents and guardians can enjoy activities with their children and in the company of other children and families and most of all in a safe environment," said Angel.
She said all the performers, including TelCell’s Breakthrough talent show event winners were well received by the public when they performed live on stage and all the activities were well attended.
Once again, cartoon characters Dora the Explorer, and Smurf were a hit with the younger children while the Gamefest stage was a hit with the older children. Children and adults were also fascinated with the water games and parents, along with their children, patiently waited to receive their personalized portrait by the caricature artists.
"The food stands, barbeque, popcorn /snow cone stand and games tent were all filled to capacity. We are very very pleased with the turnout and want to thank everyone for their support. We will definitely do it again, if only because of the support and positive comments we have received," continued Angel.
TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer, Helma Etnel, was also pleased with the turnout and with the enjoyment she personally witnessed on the faces of the youngsters enjoying the various rides and activities.
"Thankfully the rain held back so that everyone could have an enjoyable time. We are most pleased to contribute this event to the youth and the community as good corporate citizens and we fully appreciate the positive feedback we have received from the public and from our customers," said Mrs. Etnel.