Last Friday evening, Flavours Restaurant at La Vue, in South Hill, was the scene of a grand surprise birthday and appreciation dinner in honour Mrs. Sylvene Petty. Those in attendance included family, friends, former colleagues, past students and well-wishers from across the island. The event was organized by an appreciative group of persons who wanted to acknowledge, and show appreciation for the tremendous influence she has had on their lives.
The evening’s programme was chaired by Mr. Calvin (Paper) Vanterpool with contributions from several other members of the group. Mrs. Jennifer Hodge-Gumbs reflected on the positive impact which Mrs. Petty had on so many lives, through her leadership and mentorship, during the formative years of many persons – and through her involvement as a strong school teacher, Sunday school teacher, community leader and mentor.
She spoke of the origins and impact of Christarama (an initiative led by Mrs. Petty) which was a mini-carnival held on the grounds of the Old East End School in the 1980s during the month of December. The event which attracted large crowds from across the island was a community fundraiser which also helped to foster comradery and the personal development of the young people. It was also the platform for many calypsonians such as Tornado, Hotshot and others. The funds raised from Christarama went towards the St Augustine’s Church Building Fund as well as the installation of the first set of street lights from Sandy Hill to the Pond Ground.
The group reminisced on those years with a slide show. And it performed folklore songs – which were sung during those early years – accompanied by guitarist Terrance Fleming and drummer Ras Isaiah.
Then came the presentation of gifts, including a plaque, to Mrs. Petty. This was done by Mr. Othlyn Vanterpool assisted by Mrs. Mary Busby.
Thereafter, several persons, including Tr. Franklyn (Kelly) Richardson, spoke glowingly of Mrs. Petty’s influence and contribution to the community at large.
In response, Mrs. Petty, who was visibly emotional on arrival at the event, expressed her appreciation to the persons involved in putting the function together, and noted her pride at being involved in the development of so many persons who are positively impacting Anguilla’s Society today. She urged them to continue being productive and positive role models and to look out for the next generation.
Mrs. Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch was also presented with a plaque – by Mrs. Ann Gumbs – in recognition of her unwavering commitment to youth development alongside Mrs. Petty. Former calypsonian, Singing Jenny, rounded off the presentations on behalf of the group, with her song “Flowers for my heroes”.
Mr. Jerome Roberts gave the concluding remarks with expressions of gratitude to all who contributed to the realization of a most memorable event.
Mr. Kingsley Richardson and his team provided the entertainment, throughout the evening with contributions from Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch and Priscilla Gumbs.
