Elderly out in numbers on Independence Day

By Terresa McCall
Reporter-SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - IN what has seemingly become a tradition, a relatively large number of elderly members of the community lent their support to the Independence Celebrations by attending the Independence Parade held at Warner Park and the Independence Toast at Camp Springfield on Friday (Sep. 19).

After viewing the Parade, the elders were transported to Camp Springfield, where they were accommodated under a tent specifically erected for them.

The elders listened and applauded in response to the cheers offered to those individuals who made the Parade a success as well as those who made the Independence, success, progress and development of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis possible.

Following the Toast, PM Douglas paid his guests a visit at which point he thanked them for their presence at the ceremonies.
 
He was welcomed with open arms in appreciation and thanks, as some yelled, “Without you we wouldn’t be here!” Dr. Douglas took the opportunity to fraternise with the elders, some of whom he exchanged hugs and shared words of encouragement.

Speaking with SKNVibes, Supervisor in the Ministry of Social Development Ann Wigley said the fact that the elderly are present at each Independence Parade/Toast, this year’s was special.

“…Today is no different but it’s a special occasion seeing that it’s the 25th Anniversary of the Independence of St. Kitts and Nevis. 

Most of our seniors are far past the silver ages and have even passed the golden age, so they were here even before St. Kitts Nevis became independent.  

We decided to come out and celebrate with our Prime Minister and the country. So the seniors are saying Happy 25th Anniversary to our nation and may God continue to bless our nation as we grow from strength to strength.”

Speaking to their dedication of the elders, Wigley said “some of them have been on the road since 6:00 this morning getting ready for the Parade because they did not want to miss it. Every year they make the effort and they come out”.

Wigley expressed appreciation to the elders attending the events and wished them a blessed Independence.  ~~Adz:Right~~

“I am saying Happy Independence to our seniors and thanks to you for coming out in your numbers as usual and celebrating with the Federation.”