“CHILDREN’S EASTER JOY” IN TASMAJDAN PARK

Belgrade, 25 April 2003 – TRH Crown Prince Alexander II, Crown Princess Katherine Prince Philip and the members of Princess Katherine’s family – her father Mr. Robert Batis, her mother Mrs. Ann Batis, her son Mr. David Andrews, her daughter Mrs. Alison Garfinkel and her grandson Michael Garfinkel attended the traditional children’s Easter manifestation of painting eggs – “Children’s Easter Joy”, in Tasmajdan park today, on Good Friday.

The organizers, association “Children of Palilula”, invited Belgrade children to take part in the fifth open painting of Easter eggs. The manifestation is traditionally patroned by the City Hall, and participating in organization are the Church of Saint Marco and the Petit Theatre “Dusko Radovic”.

The present children were addressed by HRH Crown Prince Alexander II:

“You have reminded me of the time when I was a child and when we used to celebrate the most joyous holiday. Those are the moments to be remembered for the whole life. I believe your talent and your imagination will paint the most beautiful Easter eggs and my family and I are going to wholeheartedly support you in that”.

After His Royal Highness, the children were addressed by the City Secretary for Education Mrs. Snezana Opankovic and His Grace Bishop Atanasije of Hvost, who blessed the children and their painting of Easter eggs.

Painting of Easter eggs and making of other works of art then started, with participation of children from pre-school to high school age. The jury chose the most successful works for the exhibition that is going to be organized tomorrow, on 26 April, at the City Hall. Ten most talented young ones will be awarded.

Special surprise for the children and the reporters was the moment when HRH Prince Philip painted an egg, as a sign of support to the contestants. He was joined by Princess Katherine’s grandson, young Michael.

Their Royal Highnesses spent some time watching these imaginative young artist and talking to them.

Upon their visit to Tasmajdan, Their Royal Highnesses and the members of Princess Katherine’s family visited the spot where the employees of Radio Television of Serbia tragically lost their lives during NATO bombing four years ago, lit the candles and laid flowers.