By:Curtis Morton
Charlestown-Nevis- She was originally born in Montserrat but made Nevis her home, a long time ago.
Not one to be kept quiet and an outspoken individual, whose voice has been a regular on most of the local radio talk shows, Miss Doris Tonge was particularly verbose on Wednesday 7th October.
After all, she had reason to give praise and thanks. It was her 90th birthday.
Surrounded by family members, friends and a delegation from the Ministry of Social Development, Miss Tonge literally received her flowers while she is yet living.
The brief ceremony was chaired by Mrs. Kim Singh, Deputy Director at the Social Services Department.
In her welcome remarks, she told the birthday celebrant: “May the Lord continue to bless you and help you to see many more birthdays.”
Prayer was offered by one of Miss Tonge’s nephews, George and the scripture reading which was taken from Psalm 21, was read by her Care Giver, Angela.
Everyone present then joined in singing the well known chorus: ‘Thanks, thanks, I give you thanks.’
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development, Mr. Keith Glasgow referred to the celebrant as ‘the famous Doris Tonge.’
He noted that the Nevis Island Administration, makes it a policy to look out for the seniors on the island and made reference to the recently initiated free bus transportation program for seniors 65 years and over. He stated that the NIA is interested in improving their standard of living and quality of life.
He wished Miss Tonge happy birthday and then presented her with a plaque and fruit basket, complements of the NIA and the City Drug store.
Also present, was Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and personal friend of the celebrant, Mr. Eric Evelyn. He indicated that he has been friends with the celebrant for a very long time. He said that she was always full of life and wished that she would be around for a very long time.
Nephew George and one of her nieces also wished their aunt a really happy birthday and spoke to the contributions that she had made to their development.
Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development, Miss D Michelle Liburd, stated that she had heard Miss Tonge’s voice on the radio so often, that she just wanted to meet her in person. She wished her many more years and God’s richest blessings.
Miss Tonge for her part, stated: “All I have to say: I bless the Lord for my age. I thank all of you.”
The ceremony concluded with the lively singing of the birthday song.