Philipsburg: --- Several onlookers gathered in front of the government administrative building yesterday to witness the show of colors from the Democratic Party and that of new party of Commissioner Theo Heyliger as they gatheredto honor the late Dr. Claude Wathey on his 83rd birthday.
Prior to the laying of the wreaths Valerie Gitterson Pantophlet told the gathering that it is a distinct honor for them to honor the late Wathey at their annual wreath laying ceremony.
She called on those that gathered their to give their respect and honor the great political leader. She said the gathering on Friday is not the same as the last nine years since the late Clem Labega is no longer among them. A minute of silence was held in honor of the late Labega who passed away two months ago prior to the wreath laying ceremony.
The first wreath was laid on behalf of the Democratic Party by leader and deputy leader of the DP, Wescot Williams, and Erno Labega.
The second wreath was laid by the grandson of the late Claude Wathey, Theo Heyliger on behalf of the executive council. Third wreath was laid by the Director of the University of St. Maarten Mrs. Josianne Fleming Artsen, the fourth wreath by the Chapter of the young professionals, while the fifth by the Foundation of the Dr. AC Wathey for Political Awareness, and the final wreath was laid by the relatives of the late Wathey.
After the official wreath, laying ceremony the two political parties took the time to pose with their individual groups and supporters around the statue representing the late Dr. Claude Wathey.
