Roadtown, Tortola - Government took a historic step to celebrate the parental achievements of its citizens when Mrs. Iris Prudencia Vanterpool of Anegada was officially declared the 2009 Mother of the Year.
Various members of the First House of Assembly, senior government officials, family, friends, and well-wishers visited Anegada yesterday (Sunday, 12 July) for the 2009 Mother of the Year Ceremony at the Emile Dunlop Community Centre.
Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, who proposed the initiative was unable to attend, but relayed his apology and support in prepared remarks that were read by Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Social Development Honourable Dancia Penn OBE, QC.
“This is another attempt to recognise our people, which I hope will continue. It is most commendable that despite the toughness of life in Anegada, you were able to raise your children to take their places in the BVI, and they are now making their contributions,” the Premier noted in his prepared statement.
Delivering her own congratulatory remarks the Deputy Premier acknowledged Mrs. Vanterpool for her role in mothering and mentoring many of the Territory’s children. “You are truly one of the pillars that have built Anegada, these Virgin Islands, and shores beyond,” said Honourable Penn. The Deputy Premier also revealed that Government is considering plans for a Father of the Year.
Other elected representatives offering congratulatory remarks were the Minister of Natural Resources and Labour the Honourable Omar W. Hodge and Territorial-at-Large Representative the Honourable Irene Penn-O’Neal. Additionally, Honourable Hodge made a special presentation to the 2009 Mother of the Year on behalf of the Honourable Premier.
Among other things, the Deputy Premier read a letter from the Premier to Mrs. Vanterpool and presented a cheque for $5,000 to Mrs. Vanterpool on behalf of the Government and people of the Territory. Other members of the First House of Assembly at the ceremony included the Honourable J. Alvin Christopher.
The large gathering at the Emile Dunlop Community Centre was treated to a rendition of the song “Precious Memories” by the honouree’s 17 surviving children. Mrs. Vanterpool mothered a total of 26 children. “We all agreed that no matter where we were in the world, we had to be here today. This award is long overdue,” said one of the children.
In her response to being declared the Territory’s first Mother of the Year Mrs. Vanterpool read a passage of scripture. Other programme items included a selection by the Virgin Gorda Seventh Day Adventist Church and a vote of thanks by the honouree’s sister-in-law Mrs. Ethlyn Potter. Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development Mrs. Petrona Davies chaired the ceremony.
The 2009 Mother of the Year Ceremony was organised by the Premier’s Office and the Ministry of Health and Social Development. The ministry aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and sustainable development of the Territory.
British Virgin Islands News