The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis received its independence from the United Kingdom in 1983. The song O Land of Beauty was officially adopted as the national anthem of the newly independent nation. It was written and composed by Kenrick Georges, who won from among 45 entries. According to him, the idea behind the lyrics was to call for citizens to see the country “for the best of what it was and maintain that as we go along.”
The song was sung before the start of the gala night.
The band was good but I failed to note down its name. The singer seemed to be popular in St. Kitts but poor me I couldn’t remember his name.
Edmund with Anessa Hazelle and Hayes Ohler. Anessa is the lovely daughter of Ambassador Rosalyn. Hayes served in the US military and is currently based in Washington DC. Hayes beautiful wife was supposed to be here but she was called for jury duty. Country first.
It was buffet, not sit-down dinner.
Ibrahim presented a gift to Prime Minister Drew
The Prime Minister and his wife gamely danced. He seems to be down to earth and humble. He is actually a surgeon.
Edmund went back to the room ahead of me. I stayed. I was enjoying the music and the company. I joined in the dancing. PM Drew was the leader, followed by his wife, then Naeema Hazelle, then me, and dozens others followed. Instead of line dancing, we were like a snake dancing. Many people were taking photos and videos mainly because of Prime Minister Drew. I wish I can have a copy of the video. It was truly fun.
Prime Minister Terrence Michael Drew is a medical doctor and general practitioner before he entered politics. He is the fourth and current prime minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis. He is only 47.
We are enjoying our short visit here. I think it’s because of the warm welcome we receive from people we meet. Edmund asked me “bakit babalik pa ba tayo dito?” I answered “never say never.”
