By: St.Clair Sazam Hull
Nevispages.com
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)- On the morning of Monday, September 15, 2014 the Charlestown Secondary School held its Independence Patriotic Programme under the theme “A nation on the move, celebrating our progress” at the Netball Complex in Charlestown.
The ceremony began with the National Anthem. This was followed by the invocation by Pastor Telbert Mathews.
Chairperson of the ceremony, Ms. Neila Jones gave some remarks. She claimed that it was an esteemed pleasure to be a part of such an imperative event. Ms. Jones said while we continue to move and progress as a nation the people of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis ought to be proud of what they have achieved thus far. She noted, “We are a young nation but we have proved we can achieve great things through hard work and perseverance”.
Principal of the institution, Mr. Edson Elliott also delivered some remarks. He noted that in celebrating such a significance occasion, he was saddened by the fact that one of the students is no longer with them. Mr. Elliott told the gathering, that we have certainly reached a time when we have to stop and pause and reminisce about those thirty-one years and give thanks to God. The Principal stated that while we celebrate, we must pray and hope that the next thirty-one years are just as productive as those prior to them.
Past student of the school, Mr. Euclid Lawrence gave the feature address. Mr. Lawrence said he was gratified and humbled by the invitation extended to him by the school to speak at such a momentous occasion. He noted that thirty-one years ago, the Union Jack of colonialism was lowered and the flag of a new nation proudly rose to give way to freedom and self-determination. He said that the theme chosen, had provided the most fitting caption because we are certainly a nation that is on the move.
Mr. Lawrence indicated that the pursuit of Independence began over three (3) decades ago and men such as, Mr. Llewellyn Bradshaw, Dr. Kennedy Simmonds and Dr. Simeon Daniel should never be forgotten. He continued, “Those men who fought for our Independence, did not rest and could not rest until they saw the tranquility of a new day”. In closing, he told those in attendance to put God first in all their doings because he has the power to make all things possible.
Entertainment was provided by the Rythmz Dance Theatre. The audience looked on in amazement, as three students of the Charlestown Secondary School thrilled them with their brilliance. When they were through with their performance, the audience gave them a resounding round of applause.
Presentation of Certificates was done by Andrea Tyson. This was followed by the vote of thanks that was given by Shannon Morton.