Orphanage shining bright

CONTINUING WHAT has now become a tradition, the 2,500 lights on the Christmas tree at the Refúgio Aboim Ascensão orphanage in Faro were officially switched on in a special ceremony recently. Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Fernando Negrão, the Minister for Social Security, Family and Children, Carlos Martins, the Secretary of State for Tourism and Faro Câmara President, José Vitorino, as well as the home’s director, Dr. Luís Villas-Boas. Other high profile guests included Felícia Cabrita, the journalist who first uncovered the Casa Pia scandal and the impersonator and singer, Fernando Pereira. Following the switching on of the lights, Fernando Negrão presented Luís Villas-Boas with a cheque for 82,000 euros to carry out essential works at the children’s home.