Under the theme “28 Years as a Nation, Building a Modern Civilization,” this year’s Independence celebrations offer a full plate for all to savour.{{more}}

Although most of the festivities are organized by private organizations, they are all included in the calendar with last Friday’s Gospel Fest dance showcase at the Peace Memorial Hall kicking things off. With full servings of the regular

staples like the National Independence Ecumenical Service at Heritage Square at 6 p.m. on the 21st, and the Independence Parade on the 27th, there are quite a few new delicacies available.

An Independence Magazine by J&G Communications will be launched on the 15th; the school tours will also start on that day. The public

service will host many activities including inter-ministerial sports and staff exchanges.

At a media briefing on Tuesday to announce the Independence activities, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Urban Development Andreas Wickham said that the activities will cater to a wide cross-section of the population with something to satisfy the different palates.

When asked about his ministry’s plans for Heritage Square, Wickham said that they have received several negative comments about Heritage Square but they are unable to do anything right now. He however, said that his ministry is putting together some terms of reference for a consultant to do a master plan for Kingstown which would include Heritage Square.

After the Military Parade at Victoria Park on Independence Day, the Cool Riderz Motor Cycle Club will do a Round the Island Ride. There would also be the first Miss Independence Teen Pageant at the Peace Memorial Hall beginning at 8:00 p.m. (AC)