A Jubilant Jubilee

May 29, 2012

She was born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary. Her little sister called her Lilibet. Her grandchildren call her Granny. The general public calls her Ma'am. Her official title is Queen Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God Queen of this Realm and of Her other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith. She is Britain’s 40th monarch, and a little over three years shy of being the longest sitting Ruler. She was born with no expectations of a future of sitting on the throne, and in 2012, she is celebrating 60 years of a successful and beloved reign. She is simply Elizabeth II, and the UK has become party central for her Diamond Jubilee.
 
The Union Jack flies proudly over the streets in London these days; red, white and blue bunting is draped over every building ledge and window sill. People are sharing memories of the last 60 years under a unifying and stalwart presence, and they want to celebrate with typical British panache and style. The festivities reach a zenith the first weekend in June, and include:

• Saturday, June 2nd:  The Queen will attend the races at the Epsom Derby special Jubilee celebration.
• Sunday, June 3rd:  The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant will take place.  A flotilla of over a thousand watercraft will parade down the Thames beginning in the afternoon at high water. The Queen will lead the procession; her family will join alongside at various pier stops.
• Monday, June 4th:  The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert will be held. Over 100 charities will benefit from the tickets sold at the performance, which will be highlighted by Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney.
• Tuesday, June 5th:  The National Day of Thanksgiving will be observed at Saint Paul’s Cathedral in the morning, and will be followed by an evening of celebration and parties throughout England.

Most of these will be televised on the BBC World News Channel; keep in mind that England is 6 hours ahead of US CST. Revelry is guaranteed, pomp and parades a given. A grateful nation will celebrate 60 years of exemplary and devoted service. Tip your glass to Ma’am this weekend, and remember the Empire!

Brenda N.
North Independence Branch