Charlestown-Nevis-Ms. Zaiditor Olive Jeffers walked briskly towards the designated switch and flicked it sharply and VOLA…….the entire Memorial square lit up, much to the jubilant shouts and applause of the sizeable crowd on hand.
This, as the mother of all Christmas tree lighting ceremonies on Nevis, took place in the heart of Charlestown, on the evening of Wednesday 5th December.
The proceedings commenced with a beautiful interlude of music on pan, which featured several steel band orchestras and included the Charlestown Primary School’s band and the Seniors’ band.
The opening prayer was delivered by Rev. Othniel Daly and the national anthem was rendered by the dynamic combination of Judith Dasent and Devon Cornelius. The scripture reading was done by Miss Sidondre Flemming.
The program flowed smoothly and was ably chaired by Mr. Antonio Liburd.
The profile of the patron (Ms. Jeffers), was read by Mr. Ricardo Rodriguez and she was presented with a plaque and a fruit basket by the Minister of Social Development, Hon. Eric Evelyn.
Area Representative Hon. Spencer Brand, eloquently greeted all in his brief address and wished them a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.
He congratulated the patron for her community efforts in moulding children within her community, throughout the years and asked those listening, to demonstrate more care and compassion, not only at Christmas time, but all through the year.
Also addressing the gathering, was Hon. Eric Evelyn who brought apologies on behalf of Premier Brantley, who was unavoidably absent.
He lauded the efforts of the Community Development Department. ‘Job well done,’ he exclaimed.
He also had kind words of commendation for the Patron and wished her well in her future endeavours.
Thereafter followed a superior type concert setting, which featured some of the top local acts on the island.
These included: A song, ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing, done by the audience; Songs by the choir, featuring solo artistes such as, Miss Judith Dasent; Mr. Devonne Cornelius; Mr. Wigley Daniel; Mr. Lucien York; Miss Lovelle Thomas; Mr. Dwayne Hendrickson and Miss Irveeka Nisbett.
Add to that, a few superbly choreographed dances by the Faith in Christ Ministries; the Eden Browne Dance group and the St. Thomas’ Primary School.
Two interesting monologues were also competently delivered by Mrs. Deslyn Williams-Johnson and Miss Sheryl Sutton.
The evening climaxed with staff members of the Community Development Department handing out bags of goodies to the many children present.