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Public invited to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to Mandela

(AP Photo/Schalk van Zuydam, File)Former South African President Nelson Mandela, seen here celebrating his 94th birthday last year, will be 95 tomorrow.

Islanders are invited to join together to sing “Happy Birthday” to global peace icon Nelson Mandela tomorrow.Imagine Bermuda, along with the African Diaspora Heritage Trail committee, CURB and Chewstick, will hold a lunchtime concert to celebrate Madiba’s 95th birthday between 12.30pm and 1.30pm at Wesley Methodist Church on Church Street (next to Global House).The highlight will be an audience rendition of Stevie Wonder’s version of “Happy Birthday”, led by Hamilton Town Crier Ed Christopher at exactly 1pm.All of Bermuda’s radio stations have agreed to play a version of the tune at the same time — some even delaying their news bulletins to do so.Imagine Bermuda’s Glenn Fubler said: “We would like, in advance, to express our appreciation to these broadcasters, some of whom are pre-empting their news in this unprecedented act of unity for our community.”The United Nations has designated July 18 as Mandela Day and, according to Mr Fubler, this year’s celebration is more important than ever due to Mr Mandela’s health problems.He said: “While we are using the air-conditioned sanctuary kindly offered by Wesley Methodist Church, the celebration will not be not a religious service, but an opportunity for local residents of all backgrounds to come together in recognition of someone who has made such an impact on the Human Family during difficult times.”Local singer Gene Steede will head the bill and there will be performances from young pianist Ryan Durrant, a community choir formed especially for the occasion, African drummers and Gombey dancers.For information about Mandela Day visit www.mandeladay.com.More information about Imagine Bermuda can be found on its Facebook page.