Renwick Rose celebrates 70th birthday

A small celebration was held on January 20 to mark the 70th birthday of Searchlight co-founder, columnist and director Renwick Rose.

The party, held at Renwick’s home at Ratho Mill, was organized by his daughters Naale and Zani and his son Fidel, despite strenuous protests from the self-effacing Renwick.

During the event, which had as master of ceremonies Renwick’s brother Dexter, several touching tributes were paid to Renwick by his relatives, friends and colleagues, who spoke of Renwick’s days as a schoolboy, teacher, political activist, journalist and editor, farmers’ advocate, civil society leader, international spokesperson for bananas, son, brother, husband, father, uncle and grandfather.

Those speaking included Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who has known Renwick since they entered the St Vincent Grammar School together in the 1950s. He spoke of Renwick’s intellect and wisdom and said he spends many hours having discussions with Renwick on various topics; Cuban Ambassador to SVG Vilma Reyes Valdespino, who said that before she took up her assignment in SVG, she was told about this great Vincentian Renwick Rose, who would be of tremendous assistance to her while here; Sibert “Dove” Liverpool, who Renwick said he considers his brother and dear friend; Speaker of the House Jomo Thomas, who said Renwick was his greatest political influence as a young man; Thornley Myers, CEO of VINLEC; former Minister of Agriculture Montgomery Daniel; trade unionist Noel Jackson; and editor of SEARCHLIGHT Clare Keizer.

Parliamentary representation for East St George Camillo Gonsalves was also in attendance.

Renwick’s relatives, including his wife Ancelma, daughters Naale and Zani, his son Fidel, brother Conley, nieces and nephews, spoke about their love for and admiration of the man who is now considered the head of the Rose clan. But the most touching and outstanding tributes were made by two of Renwick’s grandchildren – grandson Luca and granddaughter Aamara, whose poise, confidence and eloquence as they paid tribute to their ‘Buelo’ stunned those in attendance and earned them both rounds of applause. Ancelma was praised for her steadfast support and sacrifices over the decades, as Renwick worked for the betterment of others, to his own detriment and that of his family.

Guests were treated to a delicious three-course meal prepared by Renwick’s nephew, Kamal Rose, an executive chef who flew in from the United States just for the event. Other relatives visiting from the United States were Renwick’s sister Toni, her daughter Keanna and granddaughter Kendall.

SEARCHLIGHT extends Happy Birthday greetings and Congratulations to Renwick. Here’s to 70 more!