Sugar Fest 2016, among the best examples of collaboration by stakeholders of the Sugar Industry, drew the largest crowd to date since its inception in 2013. More than 2,000 people-including cane farmers, association executive members, SIRDI and BSI employees, and the general public at largeparticipated in fun- filled activities prepared by the very dynamic Sugar Fest committee comprised of representatives from all sugar industry stakeholders -SIRDI, the
associations (BSCFA, CSCPA and PSCPA), BSI and GOB.
This year’s theme, “From Cane to Sugar Crystals: It’s a Sweet Shuga Festival” was selected through a competition open to stakeholders, their employees and families and was won by Marcella Swasey of the Storage Division. All three associations participated along with charity groups and businesses from Orange Walk and Corozal town.
Sugar Fest kicked off at 9 a.m. on Saturday July 23rd at the BSI Field in Orange Walk Town with the performance of the Gwen Lizarraga Marching Band who delighted the crowd with their new dance routines and melodious sounds. This was followed by a sweet short welcome by BSI’s Chief Financial Of ficer, Belizario Carballo and ASR’s Vice-President of International Relations, Mac McLachlan. The crowd was then delighted by prize giveaways and by JoJo the clown who entertained all age groups with his fun games and lively activities! The first ever muscle man competition was held where participants had to prove their stamina and strength by lifting heaving objects - including a sack of commercial sugar! Going down in the history books as the first winner is Eddie Hernandez, while Dudley Sutherland finished second. This year, the Panerri x Steel Band also made their debut at the event.
A large group of fascinated listeners gathered under the main tent to enjoy the unique sound from the steel band family of instruments. The Band was also joined by dancers from GMX’s group, who wore vibrant decorated costumes, and danced to the beat of the instruments. The event counted with most of last year’s signature activities including the famous kid’s corner, fun family games, free fresco hour and live performances from popular local bands such as Abraxas and Morelia Pop. Kids had an unforgettable day with the introduction of the first ever paint powder party where they had the opportunity to squirt others with brightly colored powder and cover their clothing in a rainbow of colors! A salsation dance hour was also held to promote an active and healthy lifestyle.
