May/June 2011 The High Commission Official Newsletter

A newsletter produced by the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission for nationals and friends of Antigua and Barbuda Issue 143

Plans to Boost Agricultural Sector “Each part of the economic thrust Antigua and Barbuda in this of this country. regard. Endeavouring Antigua and Barbuda will The possibility of develop- all receive help from the Re- ing a program for Organic public of Cuba, who has Farming across the twin Achieving” indicated a willingness to island state was one of the provide seeds and technical issues discussed. support in the area of Agri-

culture. Dr Hon Baldwin W Spencer Posted On: June 7, 2011 Inside this issue: Prime Minister During a recent official visit Plans to Boost 1 ********* Agricultural Sector to Cuba, the Prime Minister Prime Minister Dr the Hon- had the opportunity to ourable Baldwin Spencer meet with Agricultural Spe- Air Passenger Duty 4 says Government is work- cialists, who indicated a (APD) update ing to enhance the nation‘s willingness to work with Agricultural sector so that it can become an integral Farewell to Mrs Paulette 5 Otto Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lovell Sees Indicators in the economy by year internationally the capital end. market is beginning to flow Prime Minister 7 of Economic Growth again and there is a sense Addresses CARICOM The Finance Minister says of confidence growing. Conference on ‗Students Engaging the there are a number of pro- CSME‘ jects that the government Lovell reiterates that Anti- is working feverishly to gua and Barbuda is going bring on stream. through a traditionally slow 50 years for ‘Swallow period, and as a result resi- In Calypso 11 dents will experience some According to Minister Lov- inconvenience. ell, there has been an in- New Equipment for 12 Mount St John crease in the amount of potential investment in the Posted On: June 18, 2011 Minister of Finance and country over the past Economy the Honourable Ministry of Information 19 three months than there Harold Lovell is predicting has been over the last two to assist Barbuda with * * * * * * that Antigua and Barbuda years. Web-Based promotion will begin to see an upturn He believes this is because

Antigua and Barbuda High Commission, 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP 2 High Commissioner’s Message

Migration and Remittance

In this examination of the impact of migration which was started in issue # 142 of our Newsletter, I commence an analysis of the impact of Remittances on the country from which the citizens have migrated.

My primary aim is to start the discussion on the link which exists between migration and development that in the long run assists in raising the quality of life of the developing coun- tries. The improvement in the standard of living and thus poverty reduction helps also to spread income across the population and bring gains in education, health and provisions of social services within the receiving country. What then do I mean by the word remittance? The Policy Brief (No 5 Sep- tember 2006 by Focus on the subject of migration) provides the following definition:-

―Remittance refers to the portion of migrant income that, in the form of either funds or goods, flows back into the country of origin, primarily to support families back home‖.

The above definition is quite useful here and covers the two main sources of benefit especially in the Car- ibbean Islands.

The first benefit provides much needed income to relieve many of the pressures which families in the 60s, 70s and beyond faced while island states in the Caribbean struggled to improve the livelihoods of their citizens. Cash remittance has been estimated at US$300 Billion per year worldwide. In recent times, however, this figure has declined due to the financial crisis and downturn in the economies of many of the major developed countries.

All over the world remittances (cash especially) form a significant source of foreign exchange for many developing and emerging countries. In 1999 the total level of remittance received in Sri Lanka was US$1.0 billion. For the Philippines the total amount of remittance was US$ 6.2 billion in 2001. Remittance flows to Caricom in 2009 totalled US$4.08 billion and to the OECS approximately US$ 200 million in 2009.

Further analysis of the figures for the Caricom territories shows some interesting linkages. When we link the remittance with economic indicators we are able to produce the comparative table below:-

Remittance and Economic Indicators (top 4 countries)

Country Percentage of GDP Per Capita

Guyana (2005) 25.7 265.7

Jamaica (2005) 18.3 622.78

Grenada (2005) 5.2 220.0

Antigua and Barbuda 1.5 140.0

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High Commissioner‟s Message Continued from page 2 Between 1991 and 2009, Antigua and Barbuda‘s portion of remittance in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) hovered around 9%.

Remittances are used to produce and achieve many social benefits. Traditionally families overcome the loss of the income earners who migrate abroad by prudent utilization of the remittance which are sent back home. The developmental aspects of these social benefits include improving the subsistence living of many families, raising health and providing for private education and improving living conditions (housing etc). Greater bene- fits could be achieved if more of these funds could be channelled into more productive activities for example micro and small business ventures. As governments in the region provide free primary and secondary educa- tion more funds received go to supplement savings. Women are usually the leading recipients of the remit- tances in the Caribbean as the migrant was historically a male member of the family.

In my research for this article, I came across only one survey which provided some indication of the utilization of the funds received through remittance. In a survey conducted by Ms Debra Roberts in Guyana, the following table was produced:-

Use of Remittance Percentage % Education 15

Real Estate 16

Business 8

Food 27

Clothing 20

Saving 14

The predominate use of the funds received went to satisfy basic needs – food (27), clothing (20) and real estate (16). Even though education (15) and savings (14) prepared the recipients for the future, the low level of use for income generating activities i.e. self-sufficiency, may point towards an expectation of continued flows of the incoming funds.

Many of the authors reviewed, proffered views that the indicated level of remittance was only a tip of the ice- berg. Remittance into a country comes from one of two channels; within the formal channel (i.e. banks, money transfer companies) or through the informal channel (i.e. visitors bringing sums of money and distributing it to family members whenever they visited as well as by unregulated agencies who advertise low fees to attract their customers). As it is not known how much is being sent via the informal channel, governments are being pushed into regulating both channels to optimize remittance while enhancing the developmental impact of the fund re- ceived.

In today‘s environment, the prospect of money laundering is an ever threatening concern. While governments would like to see this route of developmental assistance increase to support their tight cash positions, everyone would recognize and support the need to avoid the movement of the produce of crime from one territory to another.

One thought occurred to me as I reviewed the figures and linkage for the OECS to the economic indicators. It would appear that where the per capita GNI is higher, the level of remittance per capita is lower. The table below points to this and perhaps suggests one area where more research is needed. What other factors are influencing these ratios?

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High Commissioner‟s Message Continued from page 3

ECCU Member States Remittance % GDP GDP Per Capita US$

Antigua and Barbuda 1.4 33,249

Anguilla 4.2 36,406

St Vincent and the Grenadines 5.1 15,884

Dominica 5.3 14.036

Grenada 5.5 15,034

St Kitts and Nevis 7.1 27,152

St Lucia 3.3 14,947

Non-financial remittance also provides assistance to recipient countries. The many barrels of goods purchased abroad and sent back home either at Christmas or following some disaster are examples that spring to mind. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda, like many of its counterparts in the region, facilitates this movement of material by a ―Dollar Barrel‖ programme around the last quarter of each year. Items are purchased overseas and are packed and shipped to families in the Caribbean under this programme providing relief similar to that of sending cash through the money transfer companies.

It would be quite significant if more information, analysis and statistical assessment can be done on this important aspect of development. The assessment would then be utilized to develop clearer policies on the repatriation of funds so that the sender as well as the receiver is protected, the source of the funds properly assured and devel- opmental impact maximized through micro–financial education for those most in need of this guidance and pro- tection.

We are all our brothers‘ keepers and with ―all hands on deck‖, the shared task of developing these Small Island Developing States (SIDS) will become easier.

Airport Passenger Duty (APD)

Keep up the Campaign - Lobby your Members of Parliament and any other influential persons who will assist the Caribbean in its fight to make APD more fair and equitable. APD in its present state affects every Caribbean family.

Increased Air fares mean tourism, hotels etc.. will be affected, travel less frequently. The UK Government has produced a Consultation paper proposing two Options — Option 1—to introduce ‘new band systems and two classes of travel’ while Option 2 proposes ‘three dis- tance tax bands and two classes of travel’

The Caribbean submitted on 17th June their own proposal putting forward a case for their choice of Option 2 The debate continues as the Caribbean awaits the UK Government’s decision

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Treasury Department ful addition of the Central Board of mation from the public sector data Health‘s weekly paid staff in 2010, collection exercise has been input- Moves to Centralize and now the weekly paid staff of ted in the system. the Ministry of Public Works, are Payroll Processing major accomplishments. She is urging all those who have not already done so, to submit

their completed forms. In a process that took just over one year, the Treasury Depart- The Accountant General said com- ment has successfully added all plete payroll automation would weekly paid Government employ- bring a number of advantages in- ees to its automated payroll sys- cluding a more secure payroll tem, as it moves to centralize pay- process, the ability to accurately roll processing. track employment in the Govern-

ment system, and production of a The automation began five years She commended the staff of the comprehensive list of Government ago with monthly paid established Payroll Unit of the Treasury De- employees. workers and pensioner‘s being partment, the administrative staff added to the payroll module of at the Ministry of Public Works Employees will also able to see FreeBalance, the Government‘s and the Central Board of Health their pay slips and quickly identify integrated financial management for this achievement. any errors in their pay. system.

The automation process involves recording biographical and financial Posted On: June 14, 2011 Putting weekly paid workers on data for each government em- the system has been the most diffi- ployee. * * * * * * cult phase of the process. According to Accountant General Dr. Gittens says the transition will Dr. Cleopatra Gittens, the success- not be complete until all the infor-

Farewell to Mrs Paulette Otto

*********

Mrs Paulette Otto, who after 41 years of unstinting service in the Public Sector of the Gov- ernment of Antigua and Barbuda, in many varied roles, her last being Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, retires on 1st July 2011.

Dr the Honourable Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda hosted a recep- tion in her honour to pay tribute to the long serving Public Servant. The reception held on Tuesday 28th June 2011 was attended by Government Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, staff from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Representatives from other Ministries, Family and Friends.

From His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts, High Commissioner and staff we wish Mrs Otto God Speed and best wishes as she undertakes this next chapter in her life.

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 6 Windies Squad For ―When I retire from international Playing in just his sixth One Day , I want to be called a leg- International, Russell featured in Fourth Digicel Pearls end. I want to stay here and con two significant partnerships. He added 78 for the eighth wicket with keeper Carlton Baugh (35) tribute as much as I can,‖ Russell- said after his pyrothenics with the and another 51 in five overs with bat. tailender .

The young all-rounder from St ―I felt I played really well. What Catherine in Jamaica came to the made this innings special for me crease at Number 9 and saved was the fact that it was under the West Indies from disaster. He great pressure and it came against blasted an amazing 92 not out India. They are the world champi- from 64 balls as the home side ons and to get such a good score

reached 224-8 from 50 overs. against them is a major boost. The Windies bowlers then went to work and had the Indians deep ―As a cricketer you always like to The West Indies Cricket Board in trouble but they rebounded to test yourself against the best. As a selection committee has named reach 228-7 — to win by three young man, trying to make a an unchanged 13 man squad to wickets with 22 balls to spare. name for myself, I just want to face India in the fourth Digicel continue to do well for West In- Pearls at The right-hander smashed the dies and work hard on my game. the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket balls all parts of the field and way This innings has given me a lot of Stadium on Monday13th June. out of the ground as he counted confidence and self-belief. I would The members of the West Indies eight fours and five sixes to beat have to say, the only regret is that Squad are: Darren Sammy – Cap- his previous ODI top score of 49, we ended on the losing side.‖ tain, Carlton Baugh, Devendra made against England in Chennai Bishoo, , Kirk Ed- in the recent ICC Cricket World Even though Russell‘s batting wards, Danza Hyatt, Anthony Cup. brought him to prominence on Martin, , Kemar Saturday (11th June) he still sees

Roach, AndreRussell, Marlon ―When I went in I was not nerv- himself as a bowling all rounder. Samuels, and ous. I actually ran all the way to Lendl Simmons. the crease. I was pumped up from ―I see myself as a bowler first. the start and I knew the team That is the skill I work on the Meanwhile West Indies all needed me today in a big way. I hardest, so I know I have to make rounder has de- was batting with a senior partner some big contributions to the

clared that when he eventually so I knew I had enough time to team with the ball as well. When I barbuda.com

- retires from the game he wants get myself settled, build an innings go to the nets I work on my to be known as a legend and and get a good score for the bowling first and after that I look nothing less. team,‖ Russell explained. to get a knock. But I always work on my batting as I always look to Russell played a superb back-to- ―It was set-up for me. I was able play my part in the team,‖ Russell the-wall innings for West Indies to get my eye in and then play my asserted.

but they fell to defeat at the natural game. I knew I had the www.antigua hands of India in the Third Digicel power to clear the boundaries, so India's win gave then an unassail- PearlsOne Day International at I knew once I got the start and able 3-0 lead in the five-match the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket batted to the 45th over, I could rubber. Ground on Saturday. get the benefits in the last five overs,‖ he said. Posted On: June 13, 2011

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority brings party cricket to Essex! As a proud sponsor of the Essex County Cricket Club, we will bring Antigua’s party cricket atmosphere to the Ford County Grounds in Chelmsford, Essex on July 2nd 2011, at 5:10p.m and join us as we show Essex, cricket, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk

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Prime Minister's seek employment and to develop The basic strategy was to ensure that Address at CARICOM business enterprises. students from one country would experience the CSME in a practical Conference manner in another Member Even with the strides being made at State. Many of the students who par- the national and regional levels, the ticipated in the programme were able

awareness studies and assessments of to identify potential opportunities for the Public Education efforts are still employment, creation of businesses calling for increased activities. This is and some have signalled their interest

a herculean task which has some lim- in remaining in the Region. These,

ited support through collaborations, coupled with the ongoing efforts to ―I am honoured to welcome you to since even at our national level there engage the CARICOM Youth Ambas- Antigua and Barbuda and indeed to are dwindling resources and compet- sadors, who are now excellent this final conference of the Students ing priorities. Many Community insti- spokespersons for engaging peers and Engaging the CSME through Field Pro- tutions are challenged with insufficient colleagues in a ―youth friendly‖ man- motion project. Antigua and Barbuda financial and technical resources and ner, should be a great start to crea- is delighted to have been chosen to the present economic environment tively engaging our youth in a long be part of this activity on two occa- compounds the challenges. term strategy for the region. Even sions. To the students from Grenada though it is said that the CSME is still who journeyed to Antigua in 2009 as in the implementation phase, we are part of the earlier phase of this pro- However, as the CSME moves to the ject, I extend a very warm welcome stage of ―how to‖ it is critical that the seeing real movements in the region. back. To those of you who are visit- next generation understand their re- ing for the first time, I trust that the ality on cross border operations and The CSME must be a Lived Experi- experience will be as rewarding and appreciate the facts about new op- ence and Create Benefits for the peo- fruitful as it was for the students from portunities. After all, without invest- ples of the Community and people Antigua and Barbuda, who visited Be- ment in the youth of the region, there must be able to experience the CSME lize during the period 13-19 Septem- can be no long term strategy for the and realize the benefits, so we remain ber, 2009. CSME. committed to the development of youths.

This is why a project of this nature This activity is being held only two that sought to engage the next gen- We extend our gratitude to the weeks short of the 5th Anniversary of eration in identifying career opportu- European Union and Delegation of the start of CSME Implementa- nities in the field with regard to wage the European Commission to Barba- tion. On 30th June, 2006, 12 coun- employment, self employment and dos and the Eastern Caribbean for tries of the Caribbean Community starting a business within the CSME declared that they were in a state of the continued support and assistance readiness to operate the CARICOM was such a success. in ensuring the successful completion Single Market and Economy and made of this project, the Focal Points in the commitment to proceed to the As you will recall, the engagements each Member State, the various Min- Single Economy. involved investigation with the Minis- istries, Private Sector entities that tries responsible for Labour, Com- offered their time and information, Critical to successful implementation merce, local stock exchange, a com- the CARICOM Secretariat for under- and effectiveness of the CSME is the pany within the services industry, a taking such an ambitious project and education of the various publics and large financial institution, the Minister to the youth, for remaining commit- their understanding and buy-in to the responsible for issuing CARICOM ted to the region. Skilled Certificates, Immigration, a relevance, the scope, the benefits and Private Sector Company and a cul- the ownership of the CSME. In conclusion, I want to wish you all a

tural element. very successful two-day activity. I The objectives of this project: Stu- trust that you will find a warm and dents Engaging the CSME through Over 500,000 Euros was spent to welcoming environment here in Anti- Filed Promotion, and similar projects, initiate strengthening Community re- gua and Barbuda and that the positive continue to be to educate the region lationships and to provide practical results of this entire project which about the CSME to win their support training to two hundred and eighty has been conducted over the past 3 for regional integration and to dem- three (283) students from twelve years will redound in lasting benefits onstrate how to use the law, institu- CARICOM Member States participat- tions and economic conditions to to the Region‖. ing in the CSME. Posted On: June 17, 2011

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His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts, High Commissioner addresses Antigua and Barbuda Nationals at meeting on Sunday 13th June 2011

The Annual General ‗Education‘ Meeting of the Antigua and Barbuda National Association (London) (ABNA) was held at Nesbitt House Community Hall in London on Sunday 13th June 2011.

The meeting was chaired Mr Alphonso Peters, ABNA Education Officer while the President of the Association, Mr Everton George provided mem- bers with a list of forthcoming events. His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts, Seen above His Excellency Dr High Commissioner for Antigua and Barbuda was the featured guest speaker Carl Roberts and Mr Alphonso for the day. Peters, Education Officer ABNA Presentations were also made by Mr Eustace Constance of Street Pastors and Mrs Kansia Xavier who cur- rently fosters children spoke on that subject to encourage nationals to participate. Mr John Prince an Anti- guan national, retired Headteacher and one of the founding members of ABNA also read two poems from his recently published Book of Poems ‘Reflections‘. Mr Keith Coates completed the evening with the reading of a chapter from To Shoot Hard Labour.

His Excellency provided nationals with an update on matters relating to Antigua and Barbuda‘s development and interests such as the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the drive to formalise an economic union creating more jobs, trading among the islands and freedom of movement and trade in ser- vices, disaster preparedness, water shortage and storage, regulations on the access to beaches in Antigua and Barbuda, government programme for using agricultural lands, the status of financial services sector in particu- lar since the economic downturn, fuel prices.

His Excellency was accompanied by his wife Mrs Pauline Roberts and Mrs Althea Vanderpoole Banahene, Minister-Counsellor at the High Commission.

The Next ‘Reading’ of Mr Prince’s Book of Poems titled ‘Reflections’ will be on Tuesday 26th July 2011 from 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Hackney Central Library, 1 Reading Lane (Corner of Reading Lane and May Street), London E8 1GQ Mr John Prince read two of his poems at the Antigua and Bar- buda Association „Education‟ For more details contact Mr John Prince on tel: 020 8533 1815 Meeting on Sunday 13th June 2011

NON MACHINE-READABLE PASSPORTS OUT-OF-DATE BY THE END OF 2011… PLEASE APPLY TO RENEW YOUR PASSPORTS AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE

New Style Caribbean Community Antigua and Barbuda Passport

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 9 Antigua and Barbuda However, he said that the technol- nual General Meeting and Confer- Police Stations Should ogy was not cheap. ―No matter ence of the Association of Carib- how you look at it, it is very expen- bean Commissioners of Police Be Connected sive. We would still have to negoti- (ACCP), scheduled to take place at ate with various vendors (and) Jolly Beach from today through May

there is a fair bit of competition out 12. Efforts are on the way to get all the there so we would do the best that police stations in Antigua and Bar- we can to procure assistance. Right buda connected to a central auto- now there is no dollar figure be- ―The hosting of such conferences is mated system by early next year. cause it is all based on what we very expensive and we can‘t do it Deputy Police Commissioner Neal want, systems come in modules and alone. We count on sponsorship Parker said funds have been allo- and the contribution from the pri- cated for the purchase of the Oc- vate sector generally in order for us currence Records Management Sys- to work together. We have had a tem which would facilitate this. He tremendous response to sponsor- said this is part of the country‘s ship and contributors. So far we commitment to improve informa- have 12 exhibitors from abroad and tion sharing under the Caribbean locally,‖ Parker said, adding that Mo- you can get them in incrementally, Basin Security Initiative involving torola is the chief sponsor. The basic or intermediate and you can Caricom countries, the US, and the company will also be awarding a have very robust systems,‖ Parker Dominican Republic. Parker said scholarship during the conference. that generally the local police force said. is using more technology in crime fighting, noting that linking up all the Meanwhile, the deputy police com- Posted 9th May 2011 stations is a key component in the missioner has lauded businesses process. that have sponsored the 26th An-

Departure Tax Could ―Ministers actually spoke to mat- were several factors which could ters to do with incentivising intra- have influenced the noticeable de- be Reduced Shortly regional travel, which was a term cline in travel between Caribbean used, and one of the ways of such islands. Those identified by minis- incentive is to reduce the depar- ters at the meeting were the pric- ture tax regime for intra-regional ing of fares, cost of operations, and travel,‖ he said. ―In other words, capacity. looking seriously at the possibility of having lower taxes for intra- regional travel so that we do every- ―We made it clear that we do not thing we can to lower the actual believe that you can point a finger cost of air travel. We are very, at one airline and say that is the very serious about the concern Antigua and Barbuda and its East- reason why intra-regional travel is that there has been a decline in down. We may be able to say that ern Caribbean neighbours are intra-regional travel and the need ―very seriously‖ considering re- that is a contributor, but we felt to do everything we can collec- that it had also to do with the avail- ducing their departure tax. The tively to stimulate such travel back Chairman of the Council of Or- ability of disposable income for ganisation of Eastern Caribbean up to pre-2008 levels and above.‖ Caribbean people in light of very States (OECS), Richard Skerritt difficult economic circumstances,‖ of St Kitts & Nevis, said it was he said. The matter of stimulating There has been a 40 to 50 per cent intra-regional travel is listed as an one of the strategic measures he downturn in intra-Caribbean travel and his counterparts discussed at agenda item for a possible meeting and the OECS Ministers said that of OECS Civil Aviation and Tourism their just concluded Tenth Meet- has negatively impacted the viability Ministers. ing to stimulate intra-regional of the indigenous small hotel sub- travel and facilitate easier move- sector in the sub-region. Skerritt, ment of persons across the re- who also chairs the Caribbean Posted June 7, 2011 gion. Tourism Organisation, said there

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 10 NFW 2011 Launched family relationships. The opening activities will wrap with a media session on OBSERVER in May Radio‘s Big Issues beginning at 12:30 Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer‘s pm, where Josiah will explain the customary Mother‘s Day speech importance of family week. Media With National Family Week 2011 yesterday was incorporated into day will be held on May 16 and a officially launched, committee the launch and then the week of panel will discuss the importance of chairman Cordel Josiah MBE said activities formally begins on Interna- family life on ABS Television‘s Live he was already looking forward tional Day of Families next Sunday programme. Panellists will include to the planned activities slated to with a church service at Ebenezer Reverend Isaac James Schaeffer, begin on May 15. Josiah said the Methodist Church. Couples who founder and president of Covenant week of activities coincides with have been married for more than Point Institute in St Croix; Rever- National Family Month, which 60 years will be awarded at that end Neilson Waite of , begins on Mother‘s Day and will event and Governor General Dame family therapist, founder and execu- run until June 19, Father‘s Day, Louise Lake-Tack is also scheduled tive director of Network Services and that this was an important to address the nation on that day. Centre Incorporated; and Reverend time for the family. Karen Brotherson.

―During that period we will be The week will culminate with the having a lot of discussion about senior citizens‘ appreciation day and the family to motivate our com- persons are asked to do something munity into a more positive special for seniors in their families awareness,‖ Josiah said. Ob- served this year under the theme, and communities. ―Maintaining strong family rela- tions in the changing world‖, Na- tional Family Week, which ha and been celebrated in Antigua and * * * * * * Barbuda since 2004, aims to pro- mote and strengthen positive

Antigua and Barbuda Pensioners’ Social Security Life Certificates

Kindly note that Pensioners‘ Life Certificates can be witnessed and signed at the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place London W1H 4LP For more information Telephone 020 7258 0070

Parenting Workshops

The Department of Youth Affairs is convening a series of Parenting Workshops (particularly for parents of secondary school children) from 21st June 2011to 6th July 2011 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5:30 to 7:30pm. The workshops are being held at the Department of Youth Affairs, on Prime Minister‘s Office Drive, off Factory Road.

Posted On: June 17, 2011

11 50 Years For some measure overshadowed his been awarded Grand Cross of the Swallow In The mastery of political and social com- Most Princely Heritage. King Swallow mentary as evidenced by classics such still holds the distinction of being the Business Of as Dawn of a New Day; One Hope, first calypsonian to grace the stage at One Love, One Destiny; Rise Antigua Radio City Music Hall. King Swallow Calypso Rise; and Man to Man. But add to the also established and managed the mix hits that mesmerised the crowds oldest calypso tent, the Calypso Pep- Veteran calypsonian Rupert ―King like Don‘t Stop the Party, Party in per Pot dubbed the University of Swallow‖ Philo has been recognised Space, Subway Jam, Satan Coming Calypso. The fierce rivalry between for contributing nearly 50 years to King Swallow and his long-standing the soca and calypso art form. King rival Sir McClean ―King Short Shirt‖ Swallow, also called the Dean of Ca- Emanuel contributed to some of the lypso, received the honour during a highest attendance at Calypso Mon- dinner and award ceremony organ- arch shows. ised by the National Festivals Office to mark the close of a 10-week workshop for calypso adjudicators. Other members of the calypso fra- ternity who paid tribute to the vet- eran calypsonian were Edmund Assistant Manager of the National ―Mighty Douglas‖ Dowdie; Yvonne Festivals Office Patricia Louisa Tully ―YB‖ Benjamin; Carl ―De Pan Man‖ Down and Soca Kingdom to com- gave an overview of King Swallow‘s Richards; President of the Calypson- plete the definition of a master at career, which began with his first ians Association Adelza ―Lypstick‖ outing on the Carnival stage in 1962. work. Sheridan; Chevaughn ―Lyrics Man‖ He placed second runner-up. Since Weston; and Paul ―King Obstinate‖ then, he has won the monarch crown Richards. At the ceremony, the To date, King Swallow has reigned as on four occasions and the Road judges who attended the workshop the Caribbean Calypso King, and is March title five times. During the also honoured King Swallow who the recipient of three Sunshine past 50 years the vibrant, fiery and was an observer during the 10-week Awards. He has also received na- pulsating rhythms of his soca hits session. have created frenzy wherever and tional honours in Trinidad & Tobago whenever he performs. This has in and Grenada. Here at home, he has * * * *

“Skin” Is Ready For The brate their good fortune before plains. ―For almost 20 years, three strange things begin to happen. The movies and countless TV pro- Movie House film incorporates the sights and grammes and documentaries, we sounds of Antigua & Barbuda includ- have pretty much done everything They‘ve brought us motion pictures ing music by Kaiso Joe, Charmaine ourselves and have developed our like The Sweetest Mango and No Seed, Bailey and Promise. own shorthand,‖ she said. ―However, now Howard and Mitzi Allen of working with a full crew meant that HAMA Productions are looking to we had to include others in the deci- premiere their fourth movie, The ―I feel that the screenplay is truly a sion-making and planning. For me as a Skin. This one is described as a super- story written for the screen,‖ How- producer, it also meant that now I natural thriller. ard said. ―It‘s written from a very vis- had to manage a team of people ual place. It‘s also the first film where whilst at the same time ensure that I had a full crew, a Director of Pho- the film was finished on time and The film, written and directed by tography (DP), Professor Steven Tor- within the budget.‖ Howard Allen, tells the story of Mi- riano Berry of Howard University chael and Lisa (played by Brent Simon who also brought along his crew, film & Aisha Ralph), a young married cou- students, who concentrated on the Fans of HAMA‘s work will not have ple on the verge of losing their home. technical side of filmmaking. This to wait long as a trailer and behind- Their luck changes when Michael, meant that I could focus on directing the-scenes footage will begin airing while on a photo shoot at the his- instead of doing everything else from on ABS and cable television from to- toric Betty‘s Hope Estate, discovers being the DP to the sound engineer.‖ day. This project has garnered sup- an ancient vase and sells it to an an- port from the Ministry of Tourism Working with a crew also was an- tique dealer (played by Jeff Stewart). and the Ministry of Information & other learning curve as Mitzi ex- The couple gets little time to cele- Broadcasting.

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 12 Mount St John Medical disabled children at the orphanage. ing islands. Centre (MSJMC) receives donations Mr. Fletcher, who works for a com- ―When I saw the first child, not pany that builds and sells devices for more than three years old, being fit- disabled children, came to Antigua ted for a wheelchair it brought tears himself in 2010, with the same group to my eyes – because I know we of teens and Pastor Tony Parsons were helping to make a big difference from the Wesleyan Holiness Church. in his life – And that‘s what it‘s all about! He was pushing himself around in a matter of minutes. Prior Mr. Fletcher visited Amazing Grace to this he was being toted around by and felt he could get numerous de- his mom in a stroller which was doing vices to help the children. He also more harm than good. The feeling met with Ms. Salma Crump, MSJMC you get is indescribable.‖ Salma Marketing & Communications Man- Crump said. ager, and offered to donate to the Crump continued, ―I cannot begin to hospital numerous devices that would thank Derek and his daughter Sydney Mount St John Medical Centre help the disabled children in the and Pastor Parsons and his congrega- (MSJMC) was the recent recipient physiotherapy department. of a large donation of technical aids tion, especially the youth group back and appliances designed for disabled in North Carolina. They not only raised the funds (over $4000 US) to children. Ms. Crump set up an appointment for Mr. Fletcher to meet with Barbara send the shipment to us they also Bird, MSJMC Rehabilitation Manager, flew to Antigua, helped to offload the MSJMC received the aids from a and from that point they began a container and did fittings for the kids group of teens from the Shady Grove partnership to get the devices to An- we‘ve seen to this point. So far vari- ous aids have been donated to the Wesleyan Holiness Church in North tigua. Carolina who initially came on a mis- Amazing Grace Foundation, over 10 sion trip to Antigua for a work pro- kids in the community, a child in , and very soon we will be ject. The cost for shipping the devices was raised by the church‘s youth group so assisting some children in Barbuda. there was no cost for MSJMC. On This has truly been a blessing.‖ While on island the group went to Monday May 9, 2011, Derek and Syd- the Amazing Grace Foundation ney Fletcher, and Pastor Tony Par- where one of the teens, Sydney sons unloaded a container with over If you‘re the parent or guardian of a Fletcher, was so affected by the visit 100 donated devices such as wheel child who may need some assistance to the orphanage that when she re- chairs, strollers, walkers etc. that can please call the MSJMC Rehabilitation turned home to the United States she be used for therapy for the children Unit at (268) 484-2700 ext. 2714 for told her father, Mr. Derek Fletcher, affected with childhood crippling dis- more details. something needed to be done for the eases in Antigua and other surround- Posted 16th May 2011 Antigua and Barbuda vate sector to develop a sense of the tential technical assistance provided by Health System under opportunities and constraints on the United States Government agencies health system. through the PEPFAR Caribbean Re- Review gional Partnership Framework.

The Ministry of Health, in collabora- The methodology is a rapid, integrated approach to assessing health systems, To this end a team of seven consult- tion with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), looking at six vital components: health ants, headed by Ms. Sara Sulzbach, will is conducting an assessment of the financing, pharmaceutical management, be conducting visits and interviews at governance, health information sys- various facilities in the public and pri- Antigua and Barbuda health system. tems, human resources for health, and vate sectors, commencing Monday 16 service delivery. Special emphasis will to Friday 20 May, 2011. This assess- The assessment is being implemented also be placed on the current and po- ment will redound positively on signifi- by the Health Systems 20/20 and the tential role of the private sector in the cant interventions that can strengthen Strengthening Health Outcomes health system. Findings will inform the Health System in Antigua and Bar- through the Private Sector (SHOPS) stakeholders of critical systems buda. Stakeholders‘ input and coop- projects, with assistance from the strengths and challenges, and facilitate eration are highly appreciated. Posted Ministry of Health. It will gather infor- the prioritization of key areas of po- 13th May 2011 mation from both the public and pri-

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 13 Belmont Clinic Per- ume of the prostate that is com- of a triple lumen catheter through pressing the testicular urethra so the urethra to irrigate and drain forms Prostrate that the patient can be comfortable the bladder while a laser is used with the passage of urine and to remove parts of the prostate Surgery would not have the symptoms as- to ease urinary flow. A Laser Lith- sociated with an enlarged prostate. otripsy procedure for bladder A pioneering medical laser proce- Most patients can head out of that stones was carried out on the dure that helps to ease the symp- operating room for home within 24 same patient successfully. Lith- toms of an enlarged prostate has hours,‖ he said. otripsy is the use of high-energy been carried out at the Belmont shock waves to fragment and dis-

Clinic. The first Laser Trans- integrate kidney stones. urethral Resection for the Pros- Samuel and several other medical tate (Laser TURP) procedure practitioners witnessed the proce- took place on Friday, May 6 by a dure including Dr José Hum- Belmont Clinic Ltd is a premier medical team led by urologist Dr phreys, Dr Rasheda Williams and medical facility in the Caribbean Dwayne Thwaites. The surgery is Dr Olobukola Ogumbiyi; and comprising of a medical and surgi- believed to have been done for nursing personnel Charma Tonge, cal inpatient division, pharmacy, the first time in Antigua & Bar- Rosemary Beazer, Bobsey George radiological and diagnostic depart- buda, the OECS and possibly the and Alison James. Trans-urethral ment, outpatient clinics including Caribbean. Chairman of Belmont resection of the prostate or TURP Integrative Medicine Departments Clinic Dr Eumel Samuel explained is a highly effective and modern and two state of the art surgical urological operation used to treat the procedure. suites. Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. The Posted 9th May 2011 ―Basically, it is to relieve the vol- procedure involves the insertion

AUA Announces Health Minister of Health have attended Antigua Sickle Cell Association. past fairs.

Fair Participants should arrive between The University has again scheduled 9 am and noon to receive this per- a fair for 2nd July at the Multi- sonalized care and attention from Purpose Cultural Centre. the students, doctors, and support staff of the American University of Antigua. A complimentary shuttle A release from organisers urged the (donated by Lower Buslines) will general public to have their vital run from East Bus station to the signs screened by the students Multi- Purpose Centre at 8:50 am without cost. Attendees will be and 10:50 am. greeted by a student and subse- Each year, the American University quently taken to the various sta- of Antigua (AUA) and AMSA tions where their blood pressure, The return transfers from MPC (American Medical Student Associa- weight, eyes and glucose levels will back to East Bus Station will be at tion) reach out to the Antiguan be checked in sequence. At the end, 10:30 am and 12:30 pm on the day. community by offering free medical they will be able to interact with exams during AUA-AMSA health doctors and get education on their Over 400 people visited the Multi - fairs. overall health. Purpose Centre during the most recent health fair in March.

The AMSA - AUA Health Fair These fairs have quickly become an teams have a longstanding working island tradition, having occurred Posted On: June 22, 2011 relationship with various profes- every year since 2006. What sional groups including JCI Antigua, started as a small philanthropic ac- Caribbean Glaucoma Society/Lion‘s tivity has grown into a large, enthu- Club, JCI Antigua, AIDS Secretariat, siastic event that takes over the * * * * * * * * Society of Diabetes, Breast Multi-Purpose Centre in Perry Bay. Friends, Antigua & Barbuda HIV/ Both the Prime Minister and the AIDS Network, Rotary, and the

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Antigua and Barbuda National Association (London) and ABNA (London)Youth Team

Youth Explosion 2011 An Arts Event Of Singing, Dancing, Music, Spoken Word and Much More...... th Saturday 9 July 2011 Caxton House Community Centre, 129 St John’s Way Archway, London N19 3RQ Time: 6:30pm-9pm Website: www.abnalondon.co.uk Em@il: [email protected] Facebook: Antigua and Barbuda London Youth

Caribbean Economic tunities that the CSME presents. mining how we proceed with the further development of the Single Integration Hinges on Market and Economy,‖ he said. The Region's Youth La Rocque noted that more public- ity was needed, in light of the fact the CSME was ―widely unknown, ‗The Report of Eye on the Future: misunderstood and under- appreci- Invest in YOUTH NOW for the ated among youth,‖ according to Community Tomorrow‘ indicated research done by the CARICOM that most youth preferred to leave Commission on Youth Develop- the region in search for career op- ment. portunities and a better life, LaRoc- que said that the exercise was vital in identifying what career opportu- In this context, he said that the nities existed within the CSME, giv- CARICOM Secretariat was ing expression to the Declaration According to Ambassador Irwin ―committed to undertaking a series of Paramaribo on the Future of LaRocque, Assistant Secretary- of initiatives aimed at empowering Youth in the Caribbean Commu- General, Trade and Economic Inte- and positioning young people to gration, CARICOM, the region‘s nity. take advantage of and contribute to youth will play a critical role in the regional integration and the success of the regional integration CSME.‖ The Antigua and Barbuda confer- movement. ence will be followed by recom- mendations; LaRocque said, ―and Speaking on Thursday, June 16, in Contrary to perceptions that re- will add another crucial piece of Antigua and Barbuda at the gional integration had been put on information and recommendations ‗Conference of Students Engaging hold, the Ambassador said, ―the to what is already obtained in the the CSME Through Field Promo- CSME is alive and functioning al- Report of the CARICOM Commis- tion,‘ LaRocque said that the CSME though its implementation has not sion on Youth.‖ would not be successful without been at a pace some would have the ―full participation‖ of youth, hoped to see.‖ particularly given that research had The European Union, CSME Focal shown that young people under 30 Points, and the CARICOM Secre- represented 63% of the Carib- He told the youth participants that tariat were lauded by the Ambassa- bean‘s population. the work done over the past two dor for the important roles each years was pertinent in consolidating played in the success of the CSME gains achieved so far. project. Some 283 students traveled to vari- ous CARICOM countries to obtain Posted On: June 21, 2011 first-hand experience of the oppor- ―Your views will be key in deter-

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 15

Antigua and Barbuda same period last year. flected in Antigua and Barbuda‘s growth performance reported by

Visitor Numbers Rocket leading tour operators including January and February yielded the mainstream and specialists. highest increase showing that Anti- gua and Barbuda remains a sought after destination for winter sun, Airlines with direct services have families and wedding and honey- also reported that the first quarter moons. has shown Antigua to have the larg- est growth in the Caribbean:

Hilary Modeste, Director of Tour- ism for the UK & Europe com- Katie Parsons, Caribbean product mented: ―We have launched a num- manager, Hayes & Jarvis, com- ber of initiatives and activities to mented: ―Antigua has been the best proactively support the trade and selling Caribbean island for Hayes &

drive business. Jarvis over the past 12 months; reg- The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism istering sales well up on the previous Authority has announced a signifi- year. cant increase in UK visitor arrivals ―We are pleased by the momentum for the first quarter of 2011. in visitor numbers and would like to thank the many travel agents that ―We have also found that destina- Latest figures from the Statistical sell our destination. We expect to tion weddings have been more Division of Ministry of Tourism have a rebound year in 2011.‖ The popular than ever in Antigua.‖ show an increase of 13.74 per cent results highlight an increased inter- from January to March against the est in the destination which is re- Posted On: June 10, 2011

Major mango shipment The most recent export process the mangoes were ready to be started with a trial run in which harvested .He said the export to be exported about 10 boxes, with about six to arrangement would go some way

eight of the fruit, were sent England. in decreasing huge wastage in the Agriculture officials are keen on George said the aim of the trial was island but that efforts needed to increasing local mango produc- for the potential importers to ex- be intensified to increase produc- tion as they get set to export amine the quality of the mangoes. tion if the true potential of the export market is to be tapped their first ever major mango ship- ―We have been talking with a cou- ment within the next two ple representatives from two super- into. months. Chairman of the 2011 markets. We have two people in Mango Festival Caudley George is spearheading the move that has George said the annual produc- already resulted in a trial ship- tion already ―is a substantial ment being sent to England and amount. The wastage alone is a plans for another five to six ton- substantial amount. We are talk- nes being shipped within six to ing about anything from 20,000 tonnes of mango and the wastage eight weeks. in between that is phenomenal, the wholesale market differently – a notwithstanding the amount we major wholesale market in England eat,‖ George said. The agriculture ―We may have a few tomatoes called Spitafields; after that it will be official estimated current wastage going to Barbados but Antigua a toss up to see who will get the at around 75 per cent because of generally only exports a little most of what we send out because poor harvesting techniques and Cavalier rum from time to time we are very limited at the mo- strategies. George said the ex- and the English Harbour rum but ment,‖ George said. at the moment we don‘t have porting drive is being facilitated by much going out of Antigua which Derrick Symmons, who was born in Britain but has Antiguan and is a sad case because we have the George said discussions were potential for that,‖ George said. progressing smoothly and he ex- Barbudan roots. pected shipments to be sent once posted 13th June 2011

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 16

UK Tourist Office hand knowledge that our clients The Antigua and Barbuda episode expect.‖ targets Luxury Market airs in November. It will show- case luxury properties, dining, sail- The Ministry of Tourism and the ing and cultural activities in both Antigua Hotel and Tourist Asso- islands. The luxury accommodation sector ciation are preparing an itinerary in Antigua and Barbuda will re- for the group that will showcase Antigua and Barbuda's up-market ceive an extra boost, as the Anti- Following the Inside Luxury Travel gua and Barbuda Tourism Author- press trip, a group of 12 travel tourism product. ity‘s UK Office directs a portion of specialists will visit the destination its marketing activities towards the in July on a familiarisation trip. The latest UK visitor arrivals re- luxury holiday market. ported by the Statistics Division in the Ministry of Tourism, showed Minister of Tourism the Honour- The Travel specialists represent an increase of 13.74 % in the first able John Maginley said: ―Our UK luxury tour operators: Elegant Re- office has rightly focused on the sorts, ITC Classics, Azure Collec- quarter of 2011. luxury traveller. ―While most UK tion, Carrier, Trailfinders, Travel Counsellors, Kenwood Travel, travellers are still cautious when it Hilary Modeste, the Director of Tropical Sky, Turquoise Holidays, comes to holiday spending, tapping Tourism for the UK and Europe into this lucrative market presents and Carolyn Lodge Travel. commented: ―We have launched a the perfect opportunity to further number of initiatives and activities grow our business.‖ to proactively support the trade Suzanne Walford, Market and and drive business. We are Product Manager for Carrier, one pleased by the momentum in visi- On June 14th, UK film crew from of the luxury tour operator's on tor numbers and expect to have a ―Inside Luxury Travel‖ wrapped the planned trip said: ―Antigua is a rebound year in 2011.‖ up a week of filming throughout hugely important destination for Antigua and Barbuda, for a one- Carrier within our luxury Carib- hour episode that will showcase bean portfolio – with the new high Posted On: June 15, 2011 -end openings over recent years, the destination to over 500 million the significant investment in peren- television viewers worldwide. nial favourites and the direct ac- ****** cess from the UK, the island pre-

sents a very credible alternative

for the luxury traveller. www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

Inside Luxury Travel currently airs in 18 different languages in over 160 countries with a distribution that includes CNBC and the She said that they found that cli- Travel Channel. ents who had visited one particu- lar Caribbean island on a number

of occasions were asking advice on Jolly Beach Antigua and Barbuda was pitched alternative islands offering the to Inside Luxury Travel producers same level of luxury accommoda- as boasting some of the finest lux- tion. "Antigua is the destination we ury resorts in the world offering turn to first. As our second larg- the ultimate escape, stunning scen- est Caribbean island, we always ery, heritage, a range of quality aim to send our staff over as soon * * * ** * * * activities and events, privacy and as possible so that they can confi- warm hospitality. dently sell with the in depth first-

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 17

“Each Endeavouring All ciation (ABNA) met with the High Monday 31st October 2011, Achieving” Commissioner and Minister 5.00pm Counsellor to ascertain ways in Evensong at Westminster Abbey for This year marks the 30th Anni- which the occasion can be cele- Antigua and Barbuda‘s Anniversary versary of Independence for brated. of Independence Antigua and Barbuda. Dates for Diary: Saturday 5th November 2011

at 8.00m Sunday 30th October 2011, A series of activities have been 3.00pm ABNA Anniversary of Independ- planned. The Executive of Anti- ABNA Anniversary of Independ- ence Dance gua and Barbuda National Asso- ence Thanksgiving Service

Caribana Festivities As a warm up to the celebrations a preliminary Calypso Extravaganza *BEACH BASH Begins 10th June was held on Thursday 9th June where the local calypsonians gave

the audience a taste of their 2011 *CARIBANA QUEENS COMPETI- music. TION,

After more than twenty one years *CARIBANA 20/20 of existence, Caribana is poised to catapult itself to the next level and aims to become a premier festival *CARIBANA CLASSIC HORSE RACE Organizers of Barbuda‘s Caribana in the region. are promising a dynamic and inno- *CALYPSO MONARCH vative weekend that will provide Schedule of Events for Barbuda‘s family-friendly entertainment. Caribana include: *CARIBANA JOUVERT

The five day cultural festival will take place from June 10th to June *CALYPSO EXTRAVAGANZA 13th 2011, under the theme *CARIBANA LAST LAP

―Reviving our culture, come mingle, come revel, Barbuda Caribana *CARIBANA OPENING PARADE 2011.‖ Posted On: June 10, 2011 *TEEN SPLASH COMPETITION,

Antigua’s Carnival 2011

Saturday 23rd July to

Tuesday 2ndAugust

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 18 „Black Boys can‟ pro- bleak reality when during the launch boys, we can make it.‖ Here‘s where gramme sets out to guide programme she referenced a re- the anecdotal bit came in: she talked search project she‘d been commis- candidly about her challenges with boys down the right path sioned to do at the prison. She‘s in- her own boys, and one of those in terviewed, she said, about 100 boys particular. A problem from birth, she

and men at 1735 and ―over 20 were admitted, ―I almost gave up on him.‖ The Commonwealth Secretariat has juveniles … two are sixteen … and recently commissioned a programme they‘re there for murder.‖ looking at boys‘ underachievement in But, she continued, after she had all the Caribbean. The initiative is in but washed her hands of him, ―in my keeping with part of the Secretariat‘s She asked one, ―Boss, what you doing sleep, I got another message and I Human Development Plan in seeking inside here?‖ she said. His answer, decided to reclaim him.‖ to advance the UN Millennium De- ―Miss, me don‘ even know.‖ velopment Goals. The participating schools through the Ministries of Getting him from his troubled youth Education were from Jamaica, St Lu- Black Boys Can, described as a pro- to his accomplished adulthood, took, cia and Trinidad and Tobago. It is gramme of hope, is determined to she said, ―a lot of prayers, a lot of worthwhile to note that currently in create a more positive, purpose-filled energy, and a lot of ‗mind your busi- Antigua the St John‘s Seventh Day future for the boys under its influ- ness‘.‖ Adventist Church is carrying a similar ence. programme, Black Boys Can, to em- power Black Boys in the community With respect to the latter, she noted Education Director for Antigua and that, yes, she did go through bags if Barbuda Jacintha Pringle expressed need be. the hope that the programme would motivate participating boys ―to un- derstand what it really means to be ―I decided I was not going to give up men,‖ including learning to value on him because I saw the potential.‖ themselves. But she was quick to add that she did not do it alone. There was their fa-

ther, of course, but she also gave A cross-section of the audience at the ―Someone saw that in you there is opening of the Black Boys Can pro- credit to the teachers. hope, there is potential to become gramme at St John‟s Seventh Day Ad- people of importance,‖ the chief said ventist Church to the boys present. ―Let your life ―I said if you could only help me with have meaning.‖ this boy, we can make it,‖ she said, Leading young males away from a life paraphrasing her interaction with of lockdown, low expectations, and them. Several, whom she called out loafing, the organisers of the Black One of the ways the programme by name, went the extra mile, and Boys Can programme kicked things hopes to do that is by mentoring the then a little bit further still. off recently at St John‘s Seventh Day boys and, explained programme or- ganiser and Education Director for Adventist Church. the South Leeward Mission of the Even today, the son, a doctor in his SDA Eulalie Daley-Semper, creating field, still has a stubborn streak, she Lending moral support with his pres- in them an awareness of the many acknowledged, but he‘s channelled it ence was none less than Prime Minis- opportunities available to them. The positively. programme is, therefore, in part ter Baldwin Spencer, as the organis- ers invited the entire country to join about empowerment. in a day of prayer; to support the ―You can do it (too),‖ she told the march from Dredge Bay to Green- boys. ―All you have to do is leave the bay; a talent expo at the Multipur- Belle, meanwhile, in her anecdotal corner, leave the BET, (take up a pose Centre and an award ceremony and inspired presentation, focused on book).‖ motivating not only the boys but the – honouring 50 boys from the com- munity – at the SDA church in New parents. The charge, challenging the boys to Winthorpes. achieve, was issued by teacher ―Parents, we can make it,‖ she said, Ronald Greenaway. Barbara Belle best illustrated the emphatically. ―Parents of challenging Posted 8th June 2011

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Ministry Of Information Chairwoman for the Barbuda Coun- market share through targeted and cil Dorcas Beazer-Williams and measurable online marketing strate- to Assist Barbuda with Minister of Information, Broadcast- gies. ing, Telecommunications, Science Web-Based Promotion and Technology Dr. the Honour- able Edmond Mansoor on Tuesday The development of a website to provide information such as tourist 14th June, to discuss how the minis- try could help the sister isle with attractions, accommodation, trans- their web-based promotion initia- port and tour packages for tourists tive. visiting Barbuda was also discussed. Additionally Barbuda‘s Information Technology sector was discussed During the discussions it was noted that the internet is playing an in- during the meeting. creasingly important role in destina- tion marketing and the travel indus- Beazer-Williams, who is also re- try has perhaps the greatest poten- sponsible for youth affairs on Bar- Mansoor tial to grow and market online. buda says she is hoping the Mobile Beazer-Williams indicated that the IT Classroom, a component of the The Barbuda Council has teamed up council is hoping the Ministry can Connect Antigua and Barbuda Initia- with the Ministry of Information, help build and increase Barbuda‘s Broadcasting, Telecommunications, tive, can be adopted on Barbuda. Science and Technology to promote brand awareness online. Barbuda as a high-end destination Posted On: June 15, 2011 online. She noted the council is hoping that this will translate to an increase in ******************* A meeting was held with Tourism

Study of Legislation year to estimate the economic benefits of biodiversity. Governing Beach The workshop was attended by Senior Economist in the Ministry of Management Finance, Denise Knight.

The Gap Analysis found that al- though the beaches represent per- haps the country‘s greatest natural asset, no economic value has been placed on them. “The Beach is just

the Beginning…

Antigua and Barbuda is proposing a study of the legislation governing beach management, in light of the environmental and economic im- pact of beaches on the country‘s growth and development. The UN body will conduct further studies based on the analyses pro- The proposal is contained in a Gap vided by Antigua and Barbuda and Analysis submitted to the United other Caribbean countries. Nations Environment Programme, ****** following a workshop earlier this Posted On: June 23, 2011

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow 20 2007 Island Biological Engineering. Maurica, and co-authored two academic arti- who is the daughter of Bertram and cles for the Journal of Chemical Scholar Dawn Lewis is one of the first re- Education. Maurica Lewis graduated cipients of the Silver Jubilee Schol- with honours along with a minor in Graduates arship established by Prime Minister Bio-Molecular Science. Her imme- the Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer in diate plans include pursuing gradu-

2007. She is a past student of the ate studies in Biomedical Engineer- The Office of the Prime Minister Antigua Girls High School and the ing. joins with Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Antigua State College. and Dawn Lewis of Creekside De- velopment in announcing the ac- In commending Maurica for her complishments of 2007 Island While at NYU Poly, Maurica at- exemplary performance, Prime Min- Scholar Maurica Shenell T. Lewis tained Dean‘s List status and ister Spencer said that he is im- who graduated from the Polytech- worked as a Science Teaching As- mensely proud of her achievements nic Institute of New York Univer- sistant at the Urban Assembly Insti- and is confident that she will con- sity during their 156th Commence- tute of Math and Science for Young tinue to make her parents and Anti- ment Ceremony with a Bachelor of Women. She also tutored other gua and Barbuda proud. Science degree in Chemical and university students in Chemistry Posted June 16, 2011

HELP SUPPORT UWI

The British Foundation of the University of the West Indies (BFUWI) - UK Chapter was formed to raise funds for special projects and initiatives such as student scholarships and bursaries, academic research equipment, fellowships, etc., which in turn will serve to fulfil the goal of being the best institution in the world and improve the quality of life in the Carib- bean. Your contribution will make a difference! For more details on how you can make a donation please visit BFUWI’s website: www.bfuwi.org.uk or contact, The Co-ordinator, BFUWI, 1 Great Russell Street, London WC1B, Telephone 0798 491 8742 or email: [email protected]

MIBTST in conjunction the Government of Antigua and Bar- with United Alert to carry buda, to serve as a portal that allows notifications to be sent at rapid speed out Emergency Notifica- in real time to all citizens throughout tion Tests. Posted13th June 2011 the country, in the event of a national

disaster. As the 2011 Atlantic Hurricane Sea- son begins, the Ministry of Informa- Statica met with Minister of Informa- The Antiguan team has taken the lead tion, Broadcasting, Telecommunica- tion, Broadcasting, Telecommunica- in making the service available tions, Science and Technology in con- tions, Science and Technology, Dr the throughout the Caribbean to all gov- junction with United Alert, will con- Honourable Edmond Mansoor, Tele- ernments, emergency preparedness duct a series of emergency notifica- communications Officer, Clement departments, police, local govern- tion tests over the upcoming weeks. Samuel, and representatives of the ments, and first respondents as part The emergency alert system enables Telecoms Division and Telecommuni- of the government‘s contribution to the Ministry of Information, Broad- cation Companies APUA PCS, LIME the safety of the region. casting, Telecommunications, Science and Digicel to initiate full testing of and Technology, in conjunction with the emergency notification system the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorologi- over the next few months. Antigua United Alert is a group communica- cal Services and National Office of Alert will provide a simple, effective tion service originally built for emer- Disaster Services (NODS), to alert way to broadcast cell phone text or gency preparedness. It is comprised of a team of homeland security, informa- locals and visitors via text messaging email messages to groups of any size. before, during and after emergency tion security, and graphic design pro- fessionals who originally launched the situations. A group page, Antigua Alert program in the United States in 2006 (www.antiguaalert.com), has been to provide this service to govern- President of United Alert, Dr. Robert created and customized at no cost to ments and schools at no cost.

Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag, caribbean360news and caribbeannewsnow