Robert Lalah, Staff Reporter
Scores of students turned out yesterday for the opening of Children's Expo 2005, forcing security guards to close the gates to the National Arena to curtail the rush. The event will run over three days. - IAN ALLEN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
SEVERAL HUNDRED glee infused children, running around in wide-eyed wonderment, got Children's Expo 2005 off to a bang - well - more like a shriek yesterday.
The four-day expo is being held at the National Arena under the theme 'Instilling positive values, securing our children's future'. The first day of the expo was so well supported that teachers and ushers had noticeable difficulty rounding up the rambunctious youngsters.
The signs were evident from miles away. The lengthy lines and bodacious bundles of uniform-clad students from schools across the country, signalled that this was a day for the young ones.
Dozens of booths from companies with goods and services on offer for the children were flocked by the young patrons. They moved like missiles across the large complex with happy faces and bright eyes, ready to take it all in. And indeed, there was much to take in. Companies like Lasco, Nestle and Grace which offered free samples of sugary treats kept tummies full and the collective energy of the children high.
Guest speaker David Pearson of PALS Jamaica, gave an inspirational speech on the importance of staying true to God's teachings. After a while, he had the crowd chanting "I will not be unkind. I will not be disrespectful,".
Masterly executed performances from the Tivoli Marching Band and the Mona Preparatory Dance Troop summoned loud and excited cheers from the youngsters.
So by the end of the opening day of the expo, the children showed obvious signs of having enjoyed themselves immensely.
