New venue for Little Ochie seafood fest?

Mark Titus, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The organisers of the Little Ochie Seafood Carnival are exploring the possibility of relocating to a new venue following its 14-year stint at its base in Alligator Pond, St Elizabeth.

"It is something I have been thinking about for some time now, but I am still unsure because we might lose the atmosphere," said Evrol 'Blackie' Christian, proprietor of the popular eatery.

"More and more (patrons) coming, but it is a big decision that could make or break us."

'Blackie' started his entrepreneurial quest at the very spot where Little Ochie now sits, building his shop that sold mint tea and boiled eggs as well as cold beers to the fisherfolk.

It is understood that one of the facilities being looked at for the new seafood carnival venue is the Alligator Pond Primary School. However, the reported talks of the relocation of Rebel Salute Reggae Festival to Richmond, St Mary, from the Port Kaiser Sports Complex, is also being considered.

"It's a family, fun event that many have grown to love," he said when asked about Port Kaiser.

"It's a wonderful location, but nothing is official (Rebel salute relocation), plus, any decision that is taken must be in the best interests of the patrons because they are the ones who make this possible."

Patrons journeyed from far and wide to get their fill of seafood, football vibes, and music at the event. The best in the entertainment fraternity have graced the stage of the popular event.

Last weekend was the 2012 staging that included an entertainment line-up of dancehall heavyweights Kiprich and Konshens, along with calypsonian Oscar B, Powerman, Admiral Bailey, the ageless Lady G, and Charlie Black, who gave a good account of himself.