LIONEL FERGUSON RECEIVES GIFTS FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE

 

St. George, April 23, 2008 -- Gouyave resident Mr. Lionel Ferguson BEM was high in spirits when members of the community came out in celebration of his 102nd birthday on Wednesday April 22, 2008.

The celebration began with a church service at the nearby Anglican Church which was presided over by Rev. Junior Ballantyne.

In attendance were Prime Minister, Dr. the Right Hon.  Keith Mitchell, Parliamentary Representative, Hon. Claris Charles, former Governor General, Sir Paul Scoon, Fitzroy Bedeau, Rev. Howard Crosthwaite, family, friends and well wishers.  

The celebration was hosted by Mr. Arthur Hosten who said that the attention given to Mr. Ferguson stemmed from an article written by Mr. Dunbar Campbell who visited Mr. Ferguson in 2004 and wrote of his many achievements up to that time.

 He has a particular interest in cricket and, as a result, was allowed to visit the National Stadium soon after its completion. In 2007 he became the oldest person in the world to witness cricket World Cup 2007. It was a moment he will never forget.

 At Wednesday's ceremony, "Ferggie", as he is affectionately called, was showered with many gifts, which brought tears to his eyes.  One came from Rev. Francis, who handed over a food hamper on behalf of Social Development Minister, Hon Yolande Bain Horsford.  Rev. Francis also revealed that the elderly desk at the Ministry had commissioned a study on centurions in Grenada and that Mr. Ferguson was the first.

Hon. Claris Charles also presented a food hamper on the behalf of the Real Value Supermarket.

A gift of free Texaco gas for the rest of his life time came the firm of George F Huggins, represented by Mr. Curtis James. Mr. James assured Mr. Ferguson that he will personally ensure that the Gas is delivered in a timely manner.

According to Mr. Hosten, talks were being held between Cable and Wireless and Hon. Claris Charles with a view to obtaining free lifetime telephone service for Mr. Ferguson and a ceremony in that regard will be held shortly.

But, that's not all.  Hosten and Minister Charles have also approached Grenlec with the hope of securing free electricity service for the rest of Mr. Ferguson's life. Grenada Breweries Limited has been providing Mr. Ferguson with free vita Malt since his 99th birthday.

Mr. Ferguson's contribution towards his community included his reputation for lighting the street lamps in the town of Gouyave for many years.  

Greetings were sent to Mr. Ferguson from persons far and wide, including from Talkshoppers on Gogouyave.com. Mr. Ferguson, quietly expressed his gratitude and thanks to all.