Official newsletter

newsletter126 ( .pdf )

The Antigua and Barbuda

High Commission

Official Newsletter Issue 126 -- March/ April 2008




All Hands on Deck!


2008 Sailing Week


S


uccessfu


er a hard days work, yachtsmen and i
for fun and relaxation)


It was a week of innovation, of lively parties,
of big winds and flat calms, and when all was
said and done, it was a week that showcased
great competition on the water and wonderful
camaraderie off. In short, it was another fine
edition of Stanford Antigua Sailing Week, the
41st annual one, and everyone who attended
was a winner.

Of course, along with those figurative winners,
there were also the true champions, the
sailors who excelled on the racecourse and
earned both the respect of their rivals and the
spoils of their success. And in two separate
awards ceremonies at the regatta's Event
Village at Nelson's Dockyard, the top racers
in the 17 respective classes for this running of
Stanford Antigua Sailing Week reaped the
rewards of their top-notched efforts.

Joining the ranks of such famous yachts such


as Enzian, Kialoa 4, Infinity, Sayonara,
Morning Glory, Pyewacket, Lolita and
Rosebud all past winners of the Lord
Nelson Trophy representing the overall
victory at Antigua is a new name, Benny
Kelly's TP52, Panthera.

Along with the Lord Nelson prize, Panthera
also took home the Curtain Bluff Trophy
presented to the winner of the big-boat
Racing I class.

Racing I was also the domain of two of the
more impressive yachts to ever compete in
Antigua, George David's 90-foot Rambler and
Mike Slade's 100-foot ICAP Leopard. Both
took home some silverware.

Rambler won the West Indies Publishing Cup
presented to the overall runner-up for the
week, while ICAP Leopard secured the


Yachting World Trophy given to the boat
recording the Best Elapsed Time in the two-
part Around the Island Race that opens the
week's racing.

A third Racing I yacht, Sam Fleet's Swan 601,
Aquarius, received the Quin Farara Cup for
third overall.

Altogether, nearly one hundred individual
prizes were awarded in 38 separate categories,
including prizes for first, second and third in
each class, and a series of special awards
presented throughout the fleet.

Clay Deutsch's Swan 68, Chippewa, was given
the Budget Marine Trophy as the Overall
Winner in the Racing Class of the Caribbean
Big Boat Series.
Continues on page 8


SIn This Issue
5 6 Glory Charles: The Passion of Paint
9 Romantic Rhythms Sweet Music in the Air:Antigua takes Centre Stage
17 Prime Minister's first trip to the Middle East is a resounding success'
18 Sir Vivian Richards' Foundation receives donation










A MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCE

DR CARL ROBERTS, HIGH COMMISSIONER


Dear Readers,

Lessons in our History; preserving our memories

Recently I came across several articles in the Newsletter of
the Historical and Archaeological Society, Museum of
Antigua and Barbuda (No # 101 of April, May, June 2008)
which caught my attention. One article by Keith Bryan was
entitled "Remembering Two Men who contributed to our
Economic and Social Development". It instantly reminded
me of two men of more recent times (the late Sir George H
Walter and the late Mr Charlesworth Samuel) who were
acclaimed as having also assisted and enhanced the
nation's "Economic and Social Development".

The actions taken by these 4 persons impacted the lives of
many more Antiguans and Barbudans, while influencing
the erection of several of the buildings we note around us.
Reading the Museum's Newsletter was quite informative to
me and provided a clarion call to action. I recommend it to
many of the readers of the High Commission's Newsletter.

Now to the reason for my message. In reflecting I began to
consider the richness of our history and then sadly how
little we currently do to preserve the many historical sites


which dot the landscape. The Museum's Newsletter cites
the fact that Sir Desmond Nicholson had compiled a
database of over 2000 historical, archaeological and
marine sites in Antigua and Barbuda. What a potential
Tourism gold mine!! Ah alas, I say to myself, what a
neglected opportunity! When we think of the number of old
forts which simply lie un-preserved, the missed opportunity
at Fort James, I then look with disappointment at what
could have been. Take a look at Brimstone Hill in St Kitts &
Nevis and we would realize how much needs to be done.
Is this the job for the Government, as many of us have often
seemed to murmur? Our conscience should compel us to
answer No! No! It is a mandate for every citizen, friend,
well-wisher or just sympathizer of Antigua and Barbuda.

The Historical and Archaeological Society (HAS) needs our
help. In fact HAS needs our pledges. Become an active
pledging member. Do not just give money but give of your
time and effort to help preserve or even restore some of our
very rich heritage. As I have moved and worked around the
Caribbean to St Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Barbados etc, I
have always been delighted by the national response at
heritage preservation. I remember and am saddened by
the extent of losses from our own heritage site following the
earthquake of 1974 (at the Old Court House the present
Museum Building and many other locations). Some of this
looting I believe might be still taking place today. How can
we stop this rape of our history? What will be left by the end
of the next decade if no action is taken?

Action is needed now not because of Tourism but to restore
the foundation for the development of National Pride. While
we are setting the records straight by the correct details as
to how our Nation developed and the roles of those
responsible for its social and economic development, let us
ensure that there will be places to see which link us to our
past. We need to preserve examples of the village life of
yesterday, the type of housing construction, the type of
newspapers, the types of costumes.

Where citizens have worthwhile artifacts, donations should
be made to the Museum or we can create a private
exhibition for the benefit of the society. There is no limit to
the ideas what we could do; there is simply a dire shortage
of active, willing and committed volunteers.

Let us therefore call for a review of the destruction of our
heritage and the preservation of our historical and
archaeological sites, staring NOW!!

Dr Carl Roberts


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The Andaua and Rorbuda Hich Commission Issue I126 MafchlRoril 2008


Tourism Office Reaches
Out to Stakeholders


The Tourist Office in London is continuing
in its drive to forge a closer working
relationship with tourism stakeholders.
The Office is looking forward to its next
quarterly meeting, after staging a
successful meeting in March.

Various stakeholders including airline and
hotel representatives were on hand during
the meeting. Addressing the gathering
were High Commissioner Dr. Carl Roberts
and Acting Director General of Tourism
Cortright Marshall and Director of Tourism
in the Europe Carol Hay.

Speaking about the importance of these
forums Hay said, "We tend to have
quarterly meetings. The purpose of these
meetings is to ensure that our partners
know what our strategies for the upcoming


to them about our progress
during the previous period just to
see if there was anything we did
really well, that we may continue
doing, or any challenges that we
need to sort out by going back to
the drawing board. It is important
for us to ensure that what we are
doing this in tandem with the tour
operators and partners."


period are and to get feed back from them." Hay said Marshall outlined to
She added, "It is important to talk those in attendance, the


government's plans for
development of tourism sector.

"The partners have heard about
the proposed Tourism Authority
for some time now and they were
able to get first hand information
about it from Marshall. He also
laid out the vision for tourism for
the next five to ten years" the
tourism official added.


Travel agents

receive

Training

Travel agents in the UK
are getting training from
the Tourism Office in
London so that they can
better market Antigua and
Barbuda as a destination.

Outlining the purpose of
these training sessions,
Tourism Officer Joyce Fyfe
said "They need to know
about the product. They
need to know about what
is happening in Antigua,
so that when they are
approached by tourists,
they can give them up to
date information about our
destination."

Training sessions have
been conducted in several
cities in the UK including


Dublin. On occasions, the
Tourism Office has
conducted in-house
training, when requested
by the tour operators or
travel agents.

Some of the sessions
have placed emphasis on
Barbuda.

"What we have found is
that they do not know
much about Barbuda.
Most people know about
Barbuda. So we have
been providing them with
information on the sister
isle," she said.

The Tourism Office will
continue to provide such
training sessions
throughout the year.

Fyfe added "it (training)
has been working well and
has kept us really busy."


I 11ti Ik.Iq11 iiI til 111t: h):2!iiII12'


(Left) Carol Hay, H.E Dr Carl Roberts and Cortright Marshall
(Right) stakeholders listen attentively to speakers


I


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The Andoua and Rorbuda Hich Commission Issue I126 MafchlRoril 2008


Floods!
weather!


Earthquakes!


If you read the newspapers
bound to come across
description of the effects
warming.

Global warming, which is d
as the warming up of the
atmosphere is a serious pr

To do our bit in helping to
the effects of global warn
here at the High Commis
joining the Green Revoluti

No! We are not tying ours
trees to prevent them from I
down.


Extreme Instead we are saving trees, by
recycling the the paper we use daily.

,you are So we are ensuring that papers are
a vivid shredded and properly packaged
of global and sent off to the recycling plant!

We are also going one step further,
described by stepping up efforts at becoming
e earth's a paperless office. Its a hard task,
oblem! but we are taking it one day at a time!

mitigate Our office may be small, but we are
ning, we doing our part.
sion are
on. You can play your part as well!

selves to Join the Green Revolution today!
being cut


Visa and Passport Applications:
Errors that slow down the application


The High Commission is
very efficient at
processing passport and
visa applications.

However on many
occasions, the application
process may take longer
than usual as applicants
have not submitted the
required information.


Be sure to
application
carefully.


read through
guidelines


Some of the most
common errors made by
passport applicants are:

-forgetting to pay the
courier cost

-paying the fees with a
personal cheque

-not legalising non-
Antiguan and Barbudan
documents

-not providing additional
documents requested


-Sending photo copies
certificate instead
certified copies.


-not getting
certified

Some of 1
common
errors made
applicants:


of
of


photograph


most


by visa


-not providing documents
as requested,
-sending the application in
parts.

-having another individual
pay the fee (separate
from the application)

-Sending the application to
the wrong embassy

-not sending the original
passports.

Help us to help you, by
ensuring that you have
followed all the guidelines!


More Equipment for Police
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is investing some $7
million in the purchase of new communications equipment for
the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda that should be
fully operationalised by July.

An agreement was signed yesterday between government
officials and representatives of Motorola, the global
telecommunications company that has been contracted to
provide and install the new network.

While the operational base for the new equipment will be
established at the Police Headquarters and will allow easy
access to the various services, officers and departments of the
force, its reach extends to other related entities

According to Minister of Justice Colin Derrick, who has
responsibility for the police force, the Fire Department, the
Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Emergency Medical
Services, Her Majesty's Prison and the Barbuda Police Station,
will all be included on the network of the new communication
system.

Hon. Senator Derrick said that calls by members of the public
will be able to be retrieved in the event there are complaints that
the response by the police force is not timely, making it possible
for the high command of the force to see how and where
improvements in its response time and handling of calls can be
made.

As somewhat of a bonus, Senator Derrick further revealed, the
agreement provides for a fingerprinting device that allows
officers to immediately access a data base on the scene of a
crime and the provision of cameras to be placed at strategic
areas in the prison. (Reprinted from Antigua Sun)


The Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/Asri12008


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The Andaua and Rorbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 Marchfflaorl 2008


Gtlry carls: The passion of Pint


The streets corners are filled with the
usual haughty laughter. Youngsters on
the corner welcoming the weather in
spring! In the backroom of this silent
house, he caresses the canvas with a
coloured brush- backward and forward it
goes the images from last night's
dream being teleported through his
hands into magnificent art. His back
towards the window, the sunlight
streaming in.

"I love to paint, painting is a passion of
mine. Some people have natural desire
to paint. I find it relaxing. You can
explore issues in this world and the next
realm." says Glory Charles.

While some of his peers are enjoying the
spring weather on the basketball courts,
he is in his room, putting his effort on the
canvas. Glory who lives in Islington with
his family, is now seeking to make his
mark in the professional world of painting.

Glory still has memories of growing up in
the hills of Sugar Loaf in the first two
years of his life in Antigua. It is these
memories and experiences which form
part of the meanings behind his paintings

"My paintings reflect life in general. It
reflects the good experiences and the
bad," he said.

It is this affinity with the brush, which
caught the attention of Dr. Helga Fox, an
art critic and owner of H F Contemporary
Art. After striking up a conversation with
this 23 year old Fine Art graduate of
Middlesex University he eventually
showed her his work. She was instantly
impressed, noting "With Glory's work
the subject matter is very intriguing.....it
is an almost Egyptian mythological
approach to his work, the colours are
vibrant...that is in him from early
childhood I think."

Dr. Fox has since taken Glory under her
wings, helping to perfect his craft, and
showcasing his paintings around the
world. "I went to Austria and took his
work with me...people liked it," she said.

Glory's flirtation with the brush, started
when he was in university. The young
painter recalled, "I started when I used


to do art and design in
college... illustration and textiles.."

When I did painting courses, I realized I
had a talent for painting... I then decided
to pursue it."

Glory's parents were not exactly thrilled
that their son was spending so much
time painting. "My parents have come
around now. They see how many shows
I have been doing and now they see the
finished results. Initially they would say
'get a job, get a plan....a proper plan...."
he recalls with a smile.

Glory is hoping to have his work
exhibited in some of the major art shows
coming up later this year including one
in Abu Dhabi.

He is patient, as he knows that getting
into some exhibitions are very difficult.
However, he is determined, full of energy
and hopeful for the future.

Dr. Fox is confident that her student will
make a breakthrough in the art world and
she is willing to continue mentoring this
young man.

"Glory is very good in his style. He can
become as good as Chris Ofili, a great
artist of the modern times. Glory Charles
could equally make it in London...." she
says with pride.

If Glory were not painting professionally,
he perhaps would been looking to
cement himself in the music industry.

"Growing up I was into music...I wanted
to be a musician.

There are no regrets about his change of
heart. It appears as though he is
following his heart and not the music.

He is unsure of many things, like
whether he will do further studies. He is
sure of one thing however he wants to
paint and to have his paintings
appreciated the world over.

The High Commission assists
Glory in fulfilling his dreams.
See page 6


Glory's painting: "The Reader'


L-R, Dr. Helga Fox, Glory


Some of Glory's paintings reflect
his many experiences


Glory: "I love to paint"


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The Andouc and Rorbudo Hich Commission Issue 126 IfilorchlRoril 2008


HF Contemporary Art
are pleased to present


'RADIANT VIEW'

A Solo Show by GLORY CHARLES


Dr. Carl


Hosted by His Excellency
B. W. Roberts, High Commissioner
of Antigua and Barbuda.


27 May 2 June 2008, daily
11 am-6pm


Venue
The Loading Bay Gallery
The Old Truman Brewery
4-5 Dray Walk (off Brick Lane)
London, El 6QL

HF Contemporary Art Helga Fox
Tel/Fax +44 1707 257048
Mobile +44 (0)7768 794272
inf.-ahf.or.terinp3rayrldn .;omr
www.hfcontempcraryart.com

Eori .~-c by the High Commislon of Anigua and Barbuda ', .-


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The Andoua and Rorlbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 MafchlRoril 2008


slaves, notably to the governor of
Massachusetts at the time.

He left Antigua in 1736 after the
slave uprising and took 27 slaves
with him to Ten Hills Farm.

He died in 1738, but his son Isaac
Royal Jr., who was born in Antigua,
inherited all his father's holdings at
22 years.


Living most of his
Massachusetts, Royal Jr.
back and forth to Antigua
on the plantation.


life in
travelled
to check


The Antigua

Harvard

Connection


Research conducted by a research
fellow attached to Harvard
University has found that the money
of an Antiguan born sugar plantation
owner founded the Harvard Law
School in the 1700s.

Catherine S. Manegold made the
revelation as the special guest
speaker of the Rotary Club of
Antigua-Sundown recently.

She is a research fellow at the W. E.
B. Du Bois Institute for African and
African American Research at
Harvard University.

She embarked upon a major treatise
covering the life and times of the
Royals of New England, who had
one of the largest farms in
Massachusetts, where the university
is based.

It was called Ten Hills Farm, now
situated in Medford, a typically
middle class neighbourhood.

She said that when she began her
research three years ago, she had
no idea that it would bring her to
Antigua, but she said, "all paths
ended up leading me here." Antigua
is where Isaac Royal and his family
made their considerable fortune as


plantation owners. Their property
was in the area called Royals Bay.

She said that her work has mainly
tried to remove the veil of ignorance
from the people of Massachusetts
who have worked hard to deny their
slavery past.

She said, "I would say 99 people out
of 100 or the proportion may be
even higher (if asked) if there ever
was slavery in this part of the United
States, 99 people would say no
there never was. It's a part of the
history that has been completely
erased."

To this day, the remnants of Ten
Hills Farm show the main house with
a slave house nearby, which is
considered the last standing slave
house in the north. This is where
Antiguan slaves were housed.

Isaac Royal Sr. is the son of a
carpenter born in Maine.

They had to leave Maine due to
warfare with the American Indians
and settled in Boston. Looking for
ways to make money, it is the
suspicion that he took the advice of
an uncle, who was a sail-maker and
decided to make his way to Antigua,
which was looking for white settlers
to increase the black-white ratio in
the island.

Manegold said, "It was a very
focused intent to increase the white
population." Arriving in 1700 at 20-
years-old, he made a lot of money in
sugar as well through supplying


Manegold said that by this
generation there were few signs of
the source of the family's wealth but
there were some such as the
pineapples on the gatehouse pillars
or the hummingbirds included in a
painting of Royal's granddaughters.
"These things were gradually
clouded and erased," she said.

When the American Revolution
began, Royal left for England, where
he contracted Smallpox, which
Manegold said he had been afraid of
his whole life.

He wrote and rewrote his will to
settle the vast wealth his family
amassed in two generations.

He bequeathed in his 20 page will to
the Harvard University at his death
in 1781, which was over a 100 years
old at the time, 2,000 acres of land
in western Massachusetts for the
establishment of either a Professor
of 'Physic' (Medicine) or Law.

Harvard chose law, and established
the Royal Professorship of Law,
named after Isaac Royal.

Manegold said until recently, the
dean of the university always sat in
that seat but the present one
declined because of the growing
awareness of where the money
came from.

The research fellow came to Antigua
to conduct further studies and found
useful information at the National
Archive to contribute to her book,
which will be released in 2009.

(Reprinted from the Antigua Sun)


Harvard University is one of the top universities in the world


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The Andaua and Rorlbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 MarchlRadi 2008


ANTIGUA AND

BARBUDA GETS

TOP AWARD

Antigua and Barbuda was voted
"Best Port Welcome to passengers
coming ashore" when The Dream
World Cruise Destinations
announced its 2007 Awards.

A certificate to that effect was
presented at the just-concluded
Florida-Caribbean Cruise
Association (FCCA) Seatrade Cruise
Shipping Convention in Miami,
Florida.

Other winners in this category were
Dubai, United Arab Emirates


Continued from front page

Stay Calm scored the Antigua Breweries Cup for Best
Swan in Division A, while its counterpart, Julian Sincock's
Swan 51, Northern Child, snared the American Express
Cup for Best Swan in Division A.

Finally, longtime judge Arthur Wullschleger, the famous
"Tuna" himself who this year served as the jury arbitrator,
was given the Jan Santos Trophy, so named for Sailing
Week's vice-chairman, for his long-time distinguished serv-
ice to the regatta.

Youth Conference held in Sri Lanka

The Antiguan and Barbudan delegation to the recently
held Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting in Sri
Lanka say the meeting was successful. The delegation
to the April 27-30 meeting was headed by Hon. Winston
Williams, Youth Minister and included H.E Dr. Carl
Roberts, Antigua and Barbuda's High Commissioner to
London, Director of Youth Cleon Athill and Kareem
Payne, Antigua and Barbuda's Commonwealth Youth
Ambassador.

Under the theme, 'Youth and Peace-Building', they
debated emerging issues related to young people in the
Commonwealth, in particular the links between peace-
building, youth development and social transformation.
Delegations from some 40 Commonwealth countries
attended the conference.

The meeting also took the opportunity to review policy
directions for the Commonwealth Youth Programme
(CYP) and enabled ministers to review current activities
towards strengthening the agenda for youth
development.

Mandates from the Commonwealth Heads of Govern-
ment Meeting last year provided a focus for discussions,
particularly the findings of the Commonwealth Commis-


Invergordon, UK, La Rochelle,
France, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and
Spain. Criteria for the recent survey
include berthing requests being dealt
with quickly and efficiently; the cruise
line's relationship with the ports; ease
in disembarking passengers; issues
surrounding congestion and port fees.

According to Dream World Cruise
Destinations, there are other
considerations, and it is never easy
to select one port over another, one
destination over another. However,
"recognition is given to ports and
destinations who have delivered their
product or service in a commendable
way."

Categories for the 2007 awards are
most improved port facilities, most
efficient port services, best port


welcome, most responsive port,
best turnaround port operations,
most improved terminal facilities,
most efficient turnaround operator,
most improved destination, best
destination experience organised
tours, best destination experience -
independent sightseeing, best
turnaround destination, and
destination with best tour guides.
Commendations were also
awarded for best attraction
experience, service companies and
best new attraction.

All of the winners and category
details are highlighted in the Spring
2008 issue of Dream World Cruise
Destinations Magazine which is
published in the UK by Ashcroft &
Associates Ltd. and distributed in
the USA by DSW.


U


Sexual Offences Unit
gives public 24-hour
access

Members of the public have now
been given 24-hour access to the
police force, particularly on
matters involving complaints
about sexual offences.

That is according to the Head of
the new Sexual Offences Unit,
Inspector Cornelius Charles, who
spoke to the media yesterday
during a special briefing to inform
the public that the unit was ready
to serve its purpose.

'As in all cases when starting
something afresh, you will have
some issues that need to be
ironed out," Inspector Charles
stated, noting that they were
hindered slightly from full
operations because of certain
difficulties.

He made specific reference to
difficulties in establishing the new
telephone system, but said the
problems no longer exist.

'So now I am advising the public,
those who have had fliers, and
called certain hours and did not
get a response, we are now
saying you can call 24 hours and
someone will answer your call,"
Inspector Charles
stated.


The 24-hour telephone numbers
are 562-5729/30. Additionally,
members of the unit can be
reached at 721-4569/70/71/72.

He said that shortly the numbers
will be available toll free for
people who may not have
enough credit on their phones
but need to make an emergency
call.

"Some of these suggestions came
from Gender Affairs and WAR
(Women Against Rape), where
persons would have complained
to them as well and the
information would have been fed
to us. So we are thankful for the
co-ordination that is going on
between us and them," Inspector
Charles further added.

"All calls and all information are
confidential," Commissioner
Nelson further stressed.

Special Constable David Loftus,
who was sworn in this week,
noted that the unit has been
staffed with the type of resources
that would be responsive to the
sensitive nature of the
information that the public may
wish to share.

Loftus brings over 30 years of
investigating experiences in rape,
narcotics and customs.He has
also served with the US DEA, US
Secret Services, the FBI, Dutch
National Police, and Interpol.


U


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008






..The .ndu and .....bud Hich Commission Issue 126 M..ch.R.....l 2008-


L-R, Lionel Ritchie, Keyshia Cole, Shaggy, Kenny Rogers
L-R, Lionel Ritchie, Keyshia Cole, Shaggy, Kenny Rogers


Sweet Music in the Air:

Antigua Takes


Centre Stage


The Tourist Office in London has
already begun its vigorous
promotion of Romantic Rhythms
Antigua and Barbudans inaugural
international music festival
featuring some of the biggest
names in the entertainment
industry.

Down to perform during the June
13-15 festival are international
artistes Lionel Richie, Shaggy,
Keisha Cole, Kenny Rodgers,
Maxi Priest, Brian McKnight,
Destra Garcia and the Atlantik.

Performing live at two concerts,
the celebrity headline acts will be
supported by leading regional
performers, setting the stage for
one of the most sought after
events in the Caribbean calendar.
Known for his romantic R&B
Ballads, Academy and Grammy
award-winning singer, songwriter
and record producer Lionel
Richie is one of the primary
headliners.
He has sold over 100 million
records and his most memorable
hits include 'All Night Long', 'Say
You Say Me' and 'Dancing on the
Ceilina '


Another headliner is the prolific
country music singer, producer
and song writer Kenny Rogers.
His career spans six decades
with more than 70 hit singles
across various music genres
including 'Lucille', 'Islands in the
Stream' and 'Lady.'
Grammy-nominated singer, pop
and R&B musician Brian
McKnight is a multi-
instrumentalist made famous by
his hit singles, 'One Last Cry',
'Back at One' and 'The Only One
for Me.'
Keyshia Cole, Grammy Award
nominated R&B singer and
songwriter, is famed for her
soulful voice and platinum debut
album 'The Way It Is.'
Jamaican reggae singer Shaggy
stands out with his distinctive
sub-baritone voice and chart
topping hits 'Oh Carolina', 'It
Wasn't Me' and 'Angel'.
Known as the "King of Lovers
Rock" Maxi Priest is an English
reggae singer of Jamaican
heritage whose hit singles include
'Close to you,' 'Just a little bit
Longer' and 'That Girl.'


----- --


-^

Adding to the musical
extravaganza will be the
harmonious vocal skills and
eccentric fashion style of
Trinidadian Soca Diva, Destra
Garcia, and Atlantik, also from
Trinidad and Tobago, known for
their high energy performances
encompassing soca, reggae and
R&B.
The main concert venue will be
the iconic Sir Vivian Richards
Stadium with performances on
Friday and Saturday and mini
concerts at other locations
throughout the island.

Director of Tourism, UK and
Europe Carol Hay said, "We're
delighted to be welcoming the
musical skills of such well known
performers to our first Music
Festival.

"Antigua has a rich history in which
music has played an integral role,
and our focus on the romance
genre celebrates the music of the
Caribbean and internationally
acclaimed lyrics of today."


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/Asri12008


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-.








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Tha Anb'aua crnJ BcrrbuJcr Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008






ADVERTISEMENT


Don't miss London's largest, most colourful Charity Fair!

Sample the best of global cuisine;


Choose


from an inspiring selection of ceramics;
Jewellery and glass


Adorn yourself with scarves, hats ands shoes!

Give the house a make-over with exotic flowers, textiles and
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Tha Anb'aua crnJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008






The Andoua and Rorduda Hich Commission Issue 126 Marchfflaorl 2008


I Antigua And Barbuda Makes its Mark


In 1493 when Christopher
Columbus discovered Antigua- he
named it in honour of Santa Maria
la Antigua of a church in Seville,-
he was after the "new world" in
search of gold and resources in the
name of the Spanish queen.

Then Antigua was partially
uninhabited virtually undeveloped
compared to the European empires.

Fast forward 515 years later.
Columbus would perhaps be
surprised to see that this country is
now one of the most attractive
destinations in the world for
investors.

According to the Doing Business
Report- a publication of the World
Bank Antigua is one of the top fifty
countries for doing business -
ahead of developed nations like
Luxemborg, Italy, UAE and Brazil.

In the Latin American and
Caribbean region, Antigua is


ranked 4th. A remarkable position!

A more in depth look at the
statistics shows why investors
have been flocking to this small
Caribbean island. When it comes
to the time it takes to start a
business, Antigua is in the top 30 of
the world ahead of economic
powerhouses like Japan and
Norway.

Investors want to ensure that their.
investments are protected. Antigua
does that quite well! We rank in the Columb
top 20 in the world for protecting
investors. ahead of Australia.

Antigua and Barbuda is not just
about the beach. We're also about
ensuring investors get value for
money.

The Doing Business Report has
shown that investors looking for 'i
opportunities in Antigua and ,.
Barbuda will not be disappointed!
We'r


Government Gets
Support from Milan

Prime Minister Spencer has announced that his
government's "Light Up Your Neighbourhood" street lights
programme, one of the crime fighting measures he outlined
in his State of Nation address on crime last year, has
received a significant boost with the conclusion of
agreement with City of Milan to fund the purchase and
installation of several hundred street lights that will soon be
installed in St John's.


CARICOM's Crime Crackdown

CARICOM Governments are to take joint action against
murders, kidnapping, drug trafficking, violent gangs,
and to sign a Maritime and Airspace and Security
Agreement in three months.

Further, the leaders agreed at April special Heads of
Government Summit on crime in Port of Spain, to
re-establish regional institutions and measures used to
secure the Caribbean during last year's Cricket World
Cup.


"I am grateful for the generosity of the Mayor and the City of
Milan for agreeing in short order to join us in funding this "I think the most important decision of the Conference
initiative," said Prime Minister. "With this commitment, the was a commitment to enhance and expand the very
City of Milan becomes the third foreign partner -along with successful arrangements that were put in place for
the governments of Libya and Morocco to have contributed CWC 2007," said host Prime Minister Patrick Manning
to this important initiative," he added. at the closing news conference.


.Mayor of the City of Milan, Mrs Letizia Moratti said: "I am
pleased that my municipality is able to contribute to this
initiative, which I understand is but one of the crime fighting
initiatives your Prime Minister has introduced in an effort to
address the crime situation in your country," said the Mayor.

Mayor Moratti was elected as Mayor of Milan in 2006. Prior
to that she was Italy's Minister of Education, University and
Research in the cabinet of former Prime Minister Silvio
Berlusconi from 2001-2006.


Among those institutions and measures to be re-
implemented is the re-establishment of a single
domestic space in the Caribbean, said prime minister
Manning.

The leaders also agreed to renew the system of having
airlines submit advance passenger lists on the persons
who are booked to be flown into the Caribbean. The
leaders have committed to re-establishing a common
visa for visitors to the region.


us sets sail for the ili world
us sets sail for the in'\\ world


e not just about the beach!


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarJuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6ril 2008






The Andoua and Rorlbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 MarchlRadi 2008


MP Hughes Outlines
Agenda

As representative for All Saints East
and St. Luke made his inaugural
address in the Lower House of
Parliament yesterday, he made it clear
that he intends to "hit the ground
running" in his advocacy for his
constituency, pledging that his stay in
the House of Representatives would
not be short-lived.


Hughes was elected by a landslide in
March. The by-election took place
after the death of then MP for the
constituency, Hon. Charlesworth
Samuel

In his first presentation in the House of
Representatives, Hughes outlined
some of his plans for the service of his
constituency, which include relief
measures for people experiencing
hardship and measures to help the
youth in the community.


In the first instance, this will entail the
provision of a monthly basket of goods
for elderly people in All Saints East
and St. Luke, to help alleviate financial
hardship.

Hughes said that people are currently
being enrolled in this programme,
which will be financed out of the
constituency allowance. He said that
he would also seek to promote
sporting activities to help counter drug
use among youth.


Prime Minister Spencer
receives Award of
Excellence

On 28 April, 2008 Prime Minister the
Honourable Baldwin Spencer received an
award of excellence for his stewardship of the
Group of 77 and China. The award was
presented to the Prime Minister by Mr. Mourad
Ahmia, Executive Secretary of the Group 77 at
the United Nations.

The Prime Minister is the first ever recipient of
this award in the forty-four year history of the
Group of 77, and is being presented to him "in
recognition of his able leadership and
outstanding contribution in advancing South-
South solidarity and safeguarding the collective
interests of the Developing World."

"I was pleased but humbled when I was told thai
not only was I to be given this award but that I
was the first Ministerial Chairman to receive ii
said the Prime Minister.


system, and promote
South-South cooperation
for development.

Antigua and Barbuda,
which is part of the Latin
American and Caribbean
geographical region,
holds the annual
chairmanship of the
Group of 77 for 2008. The
chairmanship is rotated
among the three
developing countries
regions of the world:
Africa, Asia and Latin
America and the
Caribbean.


Prime Minister Spencer receiving the Award from the
Executive Secretary of the G77 and China
Mr Mourad Ahmia

Museum Seeks
Assistance
The Antigua and Barbuda Museum one
of the depositories for our heritage is
seeking financial assistance to replace
over 50 windows.


"Prime Minister Spencer has shown throughout According to a statement from the Muse-
um "The building is in need of constant
his country's chairmanship that he is a In need of repairs! upkeep and the time has come when me
champion of the interests of the developing
countries and both an ardent supporter and must replace the wonderful sash windows in this neoclassical structure." The
promoter of South-South Cooperation between 258 year old building is used to house the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda.
promoter of South-South Cooperation between
and among the countries of the southern,,
mohe is therefore fu eseri The windows are double hung sash windows of large proportion and the Board
hemisphere. has chosen Domus windows, a quality product our our times in order to cut
this award,' said Ahmia.
down on maintenance and still maintain the architectural integrity of the build-
The award, which is in the form of plaque, is ing," according to a Museum statement. Donations made by overseas mem-
The award, which is in the form of plaque, is
formally known as the Excellence Leadership bers will be given a receipt for income tax claim purposes
Award, and is being resented on the occasion The cost per window does not include installation of approximately EC$1000
of the meeting of the G-77 High Level Panel of
o the meeting o the ih evel al o per window. The cost of the windows are as follows:
Eminent Personalities on the Development
Platform for the South, which is being held at the
26 domed windows EC$ 3.086.46
Jolly Beach Resort on 29-30 April. 23 upperwindows EC$ 2,197.30
Front middle 3 upper EC$2,355.03
The Group of 77 is the largest intergovernmental Fron midde 3 uppe EC$5,211.0
organization of developing states in the United 2 Half rounds above door- EC$1,238.20
Nations, which provides the means for the
2 Half Rounds N/S EC$1,559.48
countries of the South to articulate and promote
their collective economic interests and enhance
their collective economic interests and enhan For more information you can contact the Museum at 1268-462-1469/4930.
their joint negotiating capacity on all major The museum's e-mail address is museum@candw.ag and the website is
international economic issues within the United .antiguamuseums.org
Nationswww.antiguamuseums.org
Nations


The Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008







Four years of achievement: Promises Made, Promi.ses Delivered

On the 23 rd of March 2004, the United Progressive Party (UPP) swept into office. Armed with its Agenda for
Change, the governing party promised to introduce a school meal programme as well as to revolutionize
education by putting more computers at the fingertips of students and the wider citizenry .As soon as ministers
got settled into respective offices, they started to put these promises into action

Today the school meals programme and the IT programme have been just a few of the many hallmarks of the
administration of the Hon Prime Minister, Baldwin Spencer.


(Left)- A happy student gets comfortable in the Mobile IT Unit, (Center) A view from inside the
Mobile IT Unit (Right) the Hon. Prime Minister opens another Computer Access Centre


SCHOOL MEALS PRO0BR AaN11HE


Happy children and a happy government! The School Meals Programme pro-
vides nutritious meals for students across the country!


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008






The Andoua and Rorbuda Hich Commission Issue I126 MarchlRadi 2008


N Fct To FdcI

I wirni

S cG3Q3cenh Lwis
-
I


She's spent most of her life living in London. Joycelyn Lewis has seen it all;
snow covered tress, the famous changing of the guard and all the niceties of
London life. In spite of the joys of London life she still has a special place in
her heart for her homeland Antigua.


FACT FILE


Name: Joycelyn Patricia Lewis


If you ever have the pleasure to meet her on visiting the High Commission, you Position: Personal Assistant
will instantly be dazzled by the broad smile and bubbly personality.

Joycelyn, the Personal Assistant to H.E Dr Carl Roberts, High Commissioner Age: 34
for Antigua and Barbuda has lived in more villages than she can remember.
Her love of Antiguan food and Carnival are pulling her back home and in the Residence in UK: Islington
next five to ten years she plans on returning to Antigua to build her dream home
(and of course enjoy the famous ducana and saltfish!)
Resident in Antigua: Villa
In this edition of the Newsletter we get up close with Joycelyn. Education:
What do you like most about living in London? St. John's Primary School
Def y te s Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Girls
Definitely the shopping!
School
What do you miss most about Antigua?

Food! London can't beat home cooked Antiguan food. I miss sitting on the Most memorable moment?
beach and on the veranda and feeling that nice cool tropical breeze. P m i A
Playing mass in Antigua with Dynamics in 1995.
What is olur favourite Anfinlan forod?


SU What s the most interesting thing about you,
I have too many favourites to mention. But there are a few; Ducana and people are unaware of?
saltfish and cassie, sugar fungi and saltfish. .....


People are unaware of my creative skills. I l
forms.


Minister Louis Farakhan is my role model. He is the type of role model that we
as black people need to have in our community. He is a man of his word and ng create makes me ee
we need more people like that! He's known for being very controversial. ButWhats your career goal?
that does not make him a bad person.
I want to open my own secretarial business. I want it
If you were not working at High Commission where would you be? I want to own secret business. I want it
I would be running my own Virtual Assistant business from my home office? to be very successful.


Henry: Bread

Prices

to Remain Stable

The government is expecting that
given the availability of a cheaper
source of flour and new concessions,
the bakers will not institute another
increase in the price of bread.

Trade Coordinator Ambassador Dr.
Clarence Henry said, "We (the
government) expect that the price of
bread and baked products to remain
the same."


He reminded that the government He insisted that though cheaper, the
would be waiving the 15 per cent flour from Guyana is of excellent
duties on yeast and baking powder quality and supplies currently go to


and the 10 per cent Customs Service
Tax on yeast, shortening and the
plastic bags used by customers to
take away the bread.

There is also the fact that the
government has triggered the
derogation of Article 164 of the
Treaty of Chaguaramas and
imported flour from Guyana through
Gloria's Ltd, a local importer.

That flour is approximately $14 less
per 100 pound bag than that
imported from the St. Vincent mill.


Trinidad and plans are being made to
ship flour to Suriname as well.

The trade coordinator said that these
efforts should account for something,
at least to have the price of bread
and baked products remain the same.

"If taken together, the price should
remain stable for sometime into the
future notwithstanding any external
forces," said the coordinator.


(Reprinted from Antigua Sun)


Who Is your role model?


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Blab Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6n'l 2008






he Andoum and Rorbudo Hich Commission Issue I 26 morchlRpril 2008


Ambrose: West Indies
Improving

Legendary West Indies fast bowler
Curtly Ambrose said he has seen some
improvements by the West Indies during
the recent Test and One-Day
International home series against Sri
Lanka in the Caribbean.

Sri Lanka won the first Test by 121 runs
in Guyana and the West Indies bounced
back to win the second Test by six
wickets to square the two-match series
1-1.

The regional side also won the ensuing
three-match One-Day International
series 2-0 with the final game being
washed out in St. Lucia.

Although reluctant to make a final verdict
after one series, Ambrose, who played
98 Tests for the regional side between
1988 and 2000, admitted the team did
show some improvement and appear to
be gelling nicely under new skipper
Chris Gayle.

Government Negotiates
Reimbursement To
Colonial Homes Clients

Twenty-six individuals who made
deposits to Colonial Homes project
over nine years ago were reimbursed
their full deposit during a presentation
ceremony at the Prime Minister's
Office.

The cheques were presented by
Prime Minister, Hon. Baldwin
Spencer and Minister of Housing &
Social Transformation, the Hon.
Hilson Baptiste.

Minister Baptiste thanked the
individuals for their patience and
added that this achievement was a
difficult task but he was determined to
ensure that the persons who invested


SII J


"I am one of those guys who don't like ti
really say things after just one series.

"What I will, however, say is that I havi
seen some improvements. You can sei
that they are playing together as a tear
which is very important," Ambrose said.

"I think they still need to be a little bit mor
consistent so we have to see wha
happens when Australia comes.

"Australia is the best team in the worli
and so it will be a different challenge, bu
I must say that against Sri Lanka the'
seemed to be together and they ar
playing as a team."

The West Indies will be facing worli
champions Australia in another there(
Test and five One-Day Internationa
(ODI) home series in the Caribbean nex
month.

Australia will begin their tour of thi
Caribbean on 12 May with the first Tes
against the West Indies at Sabina Par
in Jamaica from 22 to 26 May. Botl
sides will clash in the second Test at thi
Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground ii
in the Harry Mungalsingh housing
project and never received a home
were reimbursed all their monies.

Minister Baptiste said that Mr.
Mungalsingh had entered into an
agreement with the former
administration and after negotiations
broke down, he left the island with
individuals' money and not one house
being built.

"It has been four years since we took
over this government and believe me
it wasn't easy ..."This is a complex
situation where he (Mungalsingh) was
given a large portion of land for one
dollar and we have to go over all of
that to ensure that the matter is
properly rectified", Minister Baptiste
said while addressing members of the
media and individuals who came to
collect their cheques.


o Antigua from 30 May to 3 June and
Barbados will host the third Test from
12-16 June at the Kensington Oval.

e Ambrose, who claimed 405 Test wickets
n, during his career, said he is optimistic
the West Indies will at least be
competitive against the Australians.
e
it The tall, Antiguan fast bowler said he will
not be shocked if the West Indies spring
a few surprises against the Australians.
d
it "Of course, I believe they will be
y competitive against Australia.
e
"We all know that it will not be an easy
series, but if our guys go out there and
d compete that is all we are asking for. We
e- want them to compete to the best of their
il abilities," Ambrose said.
t
"I believe that there might just be a few
surprises by the West Indies against
e Australia. Just don't take anything for
;t granted." he said
k
h
e (Reprinted from Antigua Sun)
n
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer said
while other negotiations are still
ongoing, it was felt that the investors
should at least be reimbursed.

"It was felt that at least you should be
guaranteed the monies that you had
deposited and we felt that we had an
obligation to ensure that those
monies were returned to you as
expeditiously as possible", the PM
stated.

He also added that the individuals
have been extremely patient, as
some of them had invested their last
dollar into the housing project in an
effort to provide comfortable homes
for themselves and their families.

Over half a million EC dollars is
expected to be paid out to 26 clients.


Ll'l (Prime Minister
Spencer aIn(l Minister
B.aptii tc iprcsenting the
chcqueC% to the
indil idual.)


RihIl I Prime Minister
Spencer speaks to one of
hcw recipients)


the Rndaua and Bafbud Hi Commt ti....... .


I I


the Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Issue 126 march/lpril 2008 1






The Andoua and Rorbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 Mafchfflaorl 2008


Middle East

Tour was

"Successful"


Fresh from his visit to the Gulf
States of Qatar, the Kingdom of
Bahrain and the State of Kuwait,
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer
has called his first trip to the region
a resounding success.

"The gulf region is a remarkable one
and the countries that I visited are
currently enjoying an
unprecedented economic boom due
to the sky-high oil and gas prices,
and I was particularly struck by the
warm hospitality with which my
delegation and I were received in
each of the three countries we
visited," the Prime Minister said.

He also said he was able to discuss
the various development needs of
Antigua and Barbuda with each
head of State and/or government of
the three countries he visited, noting
that he chose to highlight his
country's needs in the fields of
tourism, education, culture, sports,
ICT, health, sanitation and bilateral
economic investment.

"Clearly then, each of my
counterparts and I see this as a vital
first step on the road to an enhanced
partnership at the bilateral level and


(Left) Hon. Prime Minisler Spencer and His Highness Ihe Prime Minisler of Kuwail making Ihe
salute. (Righl) Hon. Prime Minister Spencer louring a faclory


a broader vehicle for future South-
South co-operation," he said.

"Our Ambassador to the Middle East
Sir Ramez Hadeed and
Ambassador to the United Nations,
Dr. John W. Ashe, will be following
up through their counterparts on
many of the areas that were
discussed on this trip," the Prime
Minister said.

The PM's first stop was the state of
Qatar, where he was a featured
speaker at the 8th Doha Forum on
Development, Democracy and Free
Trade, in his capacity as chairman of
the Group of 77 and China.

He also held bilateral discussions
with Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa
AI-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar.

Qatar, a former pearl-fishing centre
and was once one of the poorest
Gulf states, is now one of the richest
countries in the region, thanks to the
exploitation of large oil and gas
fields since the 1940's.


From Qatar, the Prime Minister and
his delegation travelled to the
Kingdom of Bahrain, where he held
bilateral discussions with Sheikh
Khalifah ibn Sulman al-Khalifah,
Prime Minister of the Kingdom of
Bahrain.

In a region experiencing an oil boom,
Bahrain has the fastest growing
economy in the Arab world. It also
has the freest economy in the
Middle East and one of the freest
overall in the world.

The Prime Minister concluded his
mid-east trip with a visit to the State
of Kuwait, where he held bilateral
discussions with a number of senior
officials of the Kuwaiti government,
including the Amir, His Highness
Sheikh Sabah AI-Ahmad AI-Jaber
Al-Saber; the Prime Minister, His
Highness Shiekh Nasser Al-
Mohammad AI-Ahmad AI-Sabah,
the director of the Kuwait Fund, the
director of Kuwait Investment
Authority, and the chairman of
Kuwait Petroleum Company.


Romantic Rhythms
Sponsors
Announced

The Romantic Rhythms
Festival Committee is proud
to announce that The ABI
Financial Group of
Companies. American
Airlines. Antigua Motors and
Cable and Wireless have
signed on at the Euphoria
level to sponsor Romantic
Rhythms.

The Euphoria Level of
Sponsors represents the
highest level of corporate
sponsorship available.


Also joining as major
sponsors are LIAT 1974 Ltd.
and The Antigua Hotel and
Tourist Association at the
Amorous Level, and Antigua
Distillery Ltd., as the Elation
Sponsor.

"The response received to
this initiative has been
tremendous and we are
proud to unveil these
corporate citizens as our
sponsors, and thank them for
their participation in
Romantic Rhythms"
remarked Chairperson of the
Romantic Rhythms Festival
Committee. Dr. Alvin
Edwards as the seven
confirmed.


P.:.ma n Ii: Ph ihn, Ch a ir r -.r:.n i r.:fl, fa r rciqh~i i Dr -. i n E 3 r -


PuLiN ~ICIn~ r,,1rk-Iinq r,,1anaqr .:fi he The- -Bi Finan-:~i
:haip,-rs.eon J_ Heflr, ang1 Dprreclr C~e .:.I c ir~i i -qi.


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6ril 2008






The Andoua and Rorlbuda Hich Commission Issue 126 MafchlRoril 2008


Caricom Awards
Lara

Brian Charles Lara, the nation's
world record holding batsman, will
be one of four persons to receive
the highest award of the Caribbean
Community (CARICOM) in July.

CARICOM chairman and Bahamas
Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham
made the announcement during a
news conference at end of a recent


Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of
Government Conference.

Lara, a former captain of the West
Indies cricket team, has already
received this nation's highest award,
the Trinity Cross, for his sporting
achievements.

The Conference agreed to award
the Order of the Caribbean
(Community)A (OCC) to four
distinguished Caribbean nationals -
Professor Rex Nettleford, of


Jamaica, Dr Nicolas Liverpool, of
Dominica, Dr George Lamming, of
Barbados, and Lara, Ingraham
said.

He said the award ceremony will
take place during the 29th Regular
Meeting of the Caricom Heads of
Government Conference, in
Antigua, which takes place from
July 2-5.


(Reprinted
Guardian)


from Trinidad


Sir Viv Foundation Gets donation


Students of the Parkside S


The Parkside School, a visiting
cricket academy out of England, has
donated thousands of dollars worth
of cricket and football gears to the
Sir Vivian Richards Foundation and
the Antigua and Barbuda Football
Association.

During a brief ceremony at the
Antigua Recreation Grounds in April
the 120-member delegation, which
includes three youth cricket and
football teams, made the significant
donation to the past West Indies
captain, Sir Vivian Richards, who
accepted the gifts on behalf of his
foundation and on behalf of the
nation of Antigua and Barbuda.

The goodies range from cricket bats,
shoes, cricket pats, batting cups,
balls, wicket-keeping gloves bags,
cricket uniforms to footballs,
goalkeeper gloves and nets.

Director of Sports at the Parkside
School, lan Stamp, in making the


Tha Anb'aua anJ BarbuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6ril 2008


official begun to enjoy the lovely island of
presentation to Sir Antigua.
.,j | Vivian, said that
after hearing of "I would just like to say, on behalf of
the Sir Vivian all of us gathered here from Parkside
Richards School, it is a real honour to be here
Foundation, they and to meet all the people here and
decided that it was for Sir Viv himself to be here in our
a vision they presence it really is a very special
would want to moment for us," Stamp said.
support while it
would have been Accepting the donation, Sir Vivian
their way of giving thanked Stamp and the Parkside
back to their hosts. School for taking the initiative to
make such a considerable gesture -
"In England, before promising that the gears provided
schooll we came on tour, will go a long way in the youths'
we were put in development.
contact with the Sir Vivian Richards
Foundation and we were very "Let me take this opportunity to thank
impressed by the aims of the Parkside School and what is more
foundation and thought that it was a interesting than anything else is that
very worthwhile cause that we being involved with the Ministry and
wanted to support and we wanted to Sports Tourism and the things that
be giving something back to the we are trying to achieve for the
people who were going to be hosting future, this to me, is one of the best
us here in Antigua anticipating the chances that we would have had
fantastic welcome that we had," and it wouldn't have been possible,
Stamp said in my opinion, without the help of
Stanley Francis (National Tours and
"I would like to say a very big thanks Services)," he said.
to the parents of Parkside School
because without them none of us "I know for sure that the gears we
would be here and the fund-raising have here are such a wide variety of
efforts have enabled us to offer so many things and I know the
these gifts of a variety of sporting country in which we live in that we
equipment to the Sir Vivian Richards are going to be so appreciative to
Foundation to be distributed in these facts that we do have
various areas around the island," he something to compete with,"
added. Richards added.

But for the Parkside's young
cricketers and their parents, it won't
be all batting, fielding, bowling and (Reprinted from the Antigua Sun)
cheering as they have already






Antioua and Rorduda Hich Commission Issue 125 Mafchfflaorl 2008


Commissioner

to Reform

Investigation

Unit

Commissioner of Police Gary
Nelson is stressing police officers'
responsibility to the public, through
the revamping of an internal
investigation unit that deals with
complaints from ordinary citizens.

"I'm trying to really push hard the
idea of taking responsibility; of
being responsible for your actions
on the street and to the public,"
Nelson said.

He said he reformed the
investigative unit, which is now
headed by one of the assistant
commissioners, with inspectors
and sergeants who help to
investigate complaints.

Nelson indicated that the unit had
not been previously functioning
efficiently.

The Commissioner said he has
gotten some public complaints,


which he numbered and gave a
due date for the investigator to get
back to him. The investigators are
expected to speak with the
complainants and keep them
informed throughout the process.


73 K r MMiWf l- "- M
I Police Commissioner Gary Nelson

Once a complaint is made, the
accused officer is made aware of it
and given the opportunity to
respond before it is referred back to
the complainants to inform them of
the officer's response. "It has to be
a fair and timely process, not set
down for months," he said.


Despite the prevalence of reports
of police brutality and wrongdoing,
Nelson said that the number of
cases he has is not high. "I don't
know if the public is waiting to see
if I mean what I say or what. I hear
a lot of rumours but I don't really put
much value on them. I want to see
the case and investigate them
properly."

Commissioner Nelson said he
wants the community to help fight
crime through community watches
or street lighting because the police
force cannot do it alone.

But he said he understands that
community support relies on a
good police image which in turn
depends on the respect of the
community adding that if they
believe the police are corrupt or
doing wrong then there can be no
respect.

Nelson added that if needed, he
will bring in the help of special
criminal investigators for cases.
"Whatever is required I will do," he
said.


(Reprinted from Antigua Sun)


Aberdeen
*


Glasgow


* Edinburgh


Newcastle
*Stranraer upon Tyne
Befast Kendal
S York
*


SLiverpool


Blrmlngham


*Hull


Norwich


Cambridg '


Oxford.
Cardiff* *londo

Southamton Br

Antigua and Barbudans citizens are spread
throughout the UK


7/


Outside the rigours of
negotiating bilateral and
multilateral agreements, foreign
missions and consulates are
engaged in a vital role:
assisting citizens abroad.

From giving advice to Antiguan
and Barbudans on where to get
information on accommodation,
to providing information to
citizens in distress, the Antigua
and Barbuda High Commission
plays a vital role.


It is important therefore for
citizens to register with the
High Commission when they
arrive in the UK.

In times of crisis, it is very
difficult for the High
Commission to assist citizens, if


we are unaware of the
whereabouts of our citizens in
the UK.

Registration should not be
taken for granted.

Once registered, the High
Commission will be in position
to offer regular updates to
citizens about issues back
home or important changes to
UK immigration laws

This information can be made
available through this
newsletter or other media like
e-mails or the web site.

Register today!

Our friendly staff are standing
by!


Foreign Missions: Assisting Citizens
Ab road


u olyhead
Dublin* .


I


An~aua anJ BarJuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 125 march/A6ril 2008






Antioua and Rorduda Hich Commission Issue 126 MallchlRoril 2008


From underwater caves to stud It is commonly held that the first permission for acquiring and
farms, you've heard things about people who lived on Antigua were exploiting their land.
Antigua and Barbuda that may have the Siboney.


sounded too good to be true!


However, you were not too sure how
to ascertain the validity of these
claims!

Well worry no more! With the help of
Dr. Reg Murphy of the Museum of
Antigua and Barbuda, we are going
to help to debunk these myths.

We reprint below an extract of an
article by well known Antiguan
historian Dr. Reg Murphy.

Myth: Volcano under the St.
John's Cathedral
The Anglican Cathedral in St. John's
is thought to be built on a volcano.
In fact, it is actually built on a
fossilised reef.

Myth:The Siboney versus Archaic
Peoples


In fact, the Siboney never existed on
Antigua. We use the term Archaic
People to describe these stone aged
settlers.

Myth: The Arawaks and The
Caribs
When the Europeans arrived in the
Caribbean, they suggested that the
Amerindians they met and recorded
in their journals were two different
peoples, the peaceful Arawaks and
the warring Caribs.

In fact, the true Arawak and Caribs
lived side by side in the Guyanas and
still do to this day.

Myth: The Caribs were cannibals
Completely false. The need for the
Caribs to be labelled as cannibals
was linked with the need for the
arriving Europeans obtaining


Waladli versus Wadadli
The actual "Carib" name for
Antigua is Wadadli.
In fact the name was Waladli. The
mistake occurred when a popular
band, wrote a song using Wadadli.
From this time on Waladli became
Wadadli.

Myth: Bat's Cave leads to
Dominica
Bat's Cave leads to Dominica and
that slaves escaped through it or
raiding Carib warriors, who carried
off governors' wives.

False. The depth of water between
the island and the bat cave would
have to be more than three thousand
feet underground.
Definitely false, but what a story!

Myth: Barbuda was a Stud Farm
False.
Source: Antigua Museum


Sunset Rhythms Held as Warm-
up to Romantic Rhythms


rue to Ihe theme, the Sunset Rhythms mini-
nce l in April paved the way for Romantic
Rhythms The Antigua and Barbuda Internation-
You've been waiting for almost a year, and now the Carnival festivi- al Music Festival scheduled to take place from
ties are fast approaching. As much as you love Carnival, how much June 12 June 15.
do you actually know about the festival?
With the mood already set by The Panache
To help you get your mind in shape for the summer festival, see how Steel Orchestra, the sun began its descent, and
many questions you can answer. The answers will be provided in the the atmosphere at Russell's Fort James trans-
next issue of this Newsletter. formed as spectators gathered to witness the
slate of talented local performers and Jamaican
1. When was the 50th anniversary of Carnival celebrated? Reggae Singer Etana.


2. Who is the only calypsonian to have won the crown 4 times in a
row?

3. What was the name of the Road March hit in 1998?

4. King Progress won his only calypso title in what year?

5. What was theme of 2007 Carnival competition?

6. Who won Miss Teenage in 1993?

7. Which calypso monarchs are undefeated?

8. Who won the steel band competition in 1968?


Etana, thrilled the audience with her hit songs,
"Wrong Address", "I am not afraid", "Roots" and
"Warrior Love". The reggae artiste also sang a
compilation of songs from other popular Jamai-
can reggae singers.

Antigua's resident artistes also had the opportu-
nity to shine at the event. Appearing on the big
stage was Tian Wynter, 2nd runner up in the
2007 Groovy Soca Monarch Competition accom-
panied by Karen Whyte.

New and upcoming members of the Chosen
Sounds Family also performed new and unre-
leased songs during the show.


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1 H 4LP
Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258 7486


www.antigua-barbuda.com


I


An~aua anJ BarJuJa Hiah Cammirrian


Irrua 126 march/A6ril 2008


Fw 111A (Pl~b

PAGE 1

1 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commissio n O fficial Newsletter Issue 126 -March/ April 2008 It was a week of innovation, of lively parties, of big winds and flat calms, and when all was said and done, it was a week that showcased great competition on the water and wonderful camaraderie off. In short, it was another fine edition of Stanford Antigua Sailing Week, the 41st annual one, and everyone who attended was a winner. Of course, along with those figurative winners, there were also the true champions, the sailors who excelled on the racecourse and earned both the respect of their rivals and the spoils of their success. And in two separate awards ceremonies at the regatta’s Event Village at Nelson’s Dockyard, the top racers in the 17 respective classes for this running of Stanford Antigua Sailing Week reaped the rewards of their top-notched efforts. Joining the ranks of such famous yachts such as Enzian, Kialoa 4, Infinity, Sayonara, Morning Glory, Pyewacket, Lolita and Rosebud – all past winners of the Lord Nelson Trophy representing the overall victory at Antigua – is a new name, Benny Kelly’s TP52, Panthera. Along with the Lord Nelson prize, Panthera also took home the Curtain Bluff Trophy presented to the winner of the big-boat Racing I class. Racing I was also the domain of two of the more impressive yachts to ever compete in Antigua, George David’s 90-foot Rambler and Mike Slade’s 100-foot ICAP Leopard. Both took home some silverware. Rambler won the West Indies Publishing Cup presented to the overall runner-up for the week, while ICAP Leopard secured the Yachting World Trophy given to the boat recording the Best Elapsed Time in the twopart Around the Island Race that opens the week’s racing. A third Racing I yacht, Sam Fleet’s Swan 601, Aquarius, received the Quin Farara Cup for third overall. Altogether, nearly one hundred individual prizes were awarded in 38 separate categories, including prizes for first, second and third in each class, and a series of special awards presented throughout the fleet. Clay Deutsch’s Swan 68, Chippewa, was given the Budget Marine Trophy as the Overall Winner in the Racing Class of the Caribbean Big Boat Series. In This Issue 5 6 Glory Charles: The Passion of Paint 9 Romantic Rhythms Sweet Music in the Air:Antigua takes Centre Stage 17 Prime Minister’s first trip to the Middle East is a resounding success’ 18 Sir Vivian Richards’ Foundation receives donation All Hands on Deck! 2008 Sailing Week Successful Left (Yachtsmen hard at work!) Right (After a hard days work, yachtsmen and other patrons head to beach for fun and relaxation) Continues on page 8

PAGE 2

2 Dear Readers, Lessons in our History; preserving our memories Recently I came across several articles in the Newsletter of the Historical and Archaeological Society, Museum of Antigua and Barbuda (No # 101 of April, May, June 2008) which caught my attention. One article by Keith Bryan was entitled “Remembering Two Men who contributed to our Economic and Social Development”. It instantly reminded me of two men of more recent times (the late Sir George H Walter and the late Mr Charlesworth Samuel) who were acclaimed as having also assisted and enhanced the nation’s “Economic and Social Development”. The actions taken by these 4 persons impacted the lives of many more Antiguans and Barbudans, while influencing the erection of several of the buildings we note around us. Reading the Museum’s Newsletter was quite informative to me and provided a clarion call to action. I recommend it to many of the readers of the High Commission’s Newsletter. Now to the reason for my message. In reflecting I began to consider the richness of our history and then sadly how little we currently do to preserve the many historical sites which dot the landscape. The Museum’s Newsletter cites the fact that Sir Desmond Nicholson had compiled a database of over 2000 historical, archaeological and marine sites in Antigua and Barbuda. What a potential Tourism gold mine!! Ah alas, I say to myself, what a neglected opportunity! When we think of the number of old forts which simply lie un-preserved, the missed opportunity at Fort James, I then look with disappointment at what could have been. Take a look at Brimstone Hill in St Kitts & Nevis and we would realize how much needs to be done. Is this the job for the Government, as many of us have often seemed to murmur? Our conscience should compel us to answer No! No! It is a mandate for every citizen, friend, well-wisher or just sympathizer of Antigua and Barbuda. The Historical and Archaeological Society (HAS) needs our help. In fact HAS needs our pledges. Become an active pledging member. Do not just give money but give of your time and effort to help preserve or even restore some of our very rich heritage. As I have moved and worked around the Caribbean to St Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Barbados etc, I have always been delighted by the national response at heritage preservation. I remember and am saddened by the extent of losses from our own heritage site following the earthquake of 1974 (at the Old Court House – the present Museum Building and many other locations). Some of this looting I believe might be still taking place today. How can we stop this rape of our history? What will be left by the end of the next decade if no action is taken? Action is needed now not because of Tourism but to restore the foundation for the development of National Pride. While we are setting the records straight by the correct details as to how our Nation developed and the roles of those responsible for its social and economic development, let us ensure that there will be places to see which link us to our past. We need to preserve examples of the village life of yesterday, the type of housing construction, the type of newspapers, the types of costumes. Where citizens have worthwhile artifacts, donations should be made to the Museum or we can create a private exhibition for the benefit of the society. There is no limit to the ideas what we could do; there is simply a dire shortage of active, willing and committed volunteers. Let us therefore call for a review of the destruction of our heritage and the preservation of our historical and archaeological sites, staring NOW!! Dr Carl Roberts Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008

PAGE 3

3 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 Travel agents receive Training Travel agents in the UK are getting training from the Tourism Office in London so that they can better market Antigua and Barbuda as a destination. Outlining the purpose of these training sessions, Tourism Officer Joyce Fyfe said “They need to know about the product. They need to know about what is happening in Antigua, so that when they are approached by tourists, they can give them up to date information about our destination.” Training sessions have been conducted in several cities in the UK including Dublin. On occasions, the Tourism Office has conducted in-house training, when requested by the tour operators or travel agents. Some of the sessions have placed emphasis on Barbuda. “What we have found is that they do not know much about Barbuda. Most people know about Barbuda. So we have been providing them with information on the sister isle,” she said. The Tourism Office will continue to provide such training sessions throughout the year. Fyfe added “it (training) has been working well and has kept us really busy.” Tourism Office Reaches Out to Stakeholders The Tourist Office in London is continuing in its drive to forge a closer working relationship with tourism stakeholders. The Office is looking forward to its next quarterly meeting, after staging a successful meeting in March. Various stakeholders including airline and hotel representatives were on hand during the meeting. Addressing the gathering were High Commissioner Dr. Carl Roberts and Acting Director General of Tourism Cortright Marshall and Director of Tourism in the Europe Carol Hay. Speaking about the importance of these forums Hay said, “We tend to have quarterly meetings. The purpose of these meetings is to ensure that our partners know what our strategies for the upcoming period are and to get feed back from them.” She added, “It is important to talk to them about our progress during the previous period just to see if there was anything we did really well, that we may continue doing, or any challenges that we need to sort out by going back to the drawing board. It is important for us to ensure that what we are doing this in tandem with the tour operators and partners.” Hay said Marshall outlined to those in attendance, the government’s plans for development of tourism sector. “The partners have heard about the proposed Tourism Authority for some time now and they were able to get first hand information about it from Marshall. He also laid out the vision for tourism for the next five to ten years” the tourism official added. (Left) Carol Hay, H.E Dr Carl Roberts and Cortright Marshall (Right) stakeholders listen attentively to speakers The beach is just the beginning! Travel agent experiencing a bit of the Antiguan and Barbudan hospitality!

PAGE 4

4 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 High CommissionÂ’s Green Revolution Floods! Earthquakes! Extreme weather! If you read the newspapers, you are bound to come across a vivid description of the effects of global warming. Global warming, which is described as the warming up of the earthÂ’s atmosphere is a serious problem! To do our bit in helping to mitigate the effects of global warming, we here at the High Commission are joining the Green Revolution. No! We are not tying ourselves to trees to prevent them from being cut down. Instead we are saving trees, by recycling the the paper we use daily. So we are ensuring that papers are shredded and properly packaged and sent off to the recycling plant! We are also going one step further, by stepping up efforts at becoming a paperless office. Its a hard task, but we are taking it one day at a time! Our office may be small, but we are doing our part. You can play your part as well! Join the Green Revolution today! Paper is shredded and then sent off to the recycling plant Offices like ours tend to use a lot of paper Visa and Passport Applications: Errors that slow down the application The High Commission is very efficient at processing passport and visa applications. However on many occasions, the application process may take longer than usual as applicants have not submitted the required information. Be sure to read through application guidelines carefully. Some of the most common errors made by passport applicants are: -forgetting to pay the courier cost -paying the fees with a personal cheque -not legalising nonAntiguan and Barbudan documents -not providing additional documents requested -Sending photo copies of certificate instead of certified copies. -not getting photograph certified Some of the most common errors made by visa applicants: -not providing documents as requested, -sending the application in parts. -having another individual pay the fee (separate from the application) -Sending the application to the wrong embassy -not sending the original passports. Help us to help you, by ensuring that you have followed all the guidelines! More Equipment for Police The government of Antigua and Barbuda is investing some $7 million in the purchase of new communications equipment for the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda that should be fully operationalised by July. An agreement was signed yesterday between government officials and representatives of Motorola, the global telecommunications company that has been contracted to provide and install the new network. While the operational base for the new equipment will be established at the Police Headquarters and will allow easy access to the various services, officers and departments of the force, its reach extends to other related entities According to Minister of Justice Colin Derrick, who has responsibility for the police force, the Fire Department, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Emergency Medical Services, Her MajestyÂ’s Prison and the Barbuda Police Station, will all be included on the network of the new communication system. Hon. Senator Derrick said that calls by members of the public will be able to be retrieved in the event there are complaints that the response by the police force is not timely, making it possible for the high command of the force to see how and where improvements in its response time and handling of calls can be made. As somewhat of a bonus, Senator Derrick further revealed, the agreement provides for a fingerprinting device that allows officers to immediately access a data base on the scene of a crime and the provision of cameras to be placed at strategic areas in the prison. (Reprinted from Antigua Sun)

PAGE 5

5 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 The streets corners are filled with the usual haughty laughter. Youngsters on the corner welcoming the weather in spring! In the backroom of this silent house, he caresses the canvas with a coloured brushbackward and forward it goes the images from last night’s dream being teleported through his hands into magnificent art. His back towards the window, the sunlight streaming in. “I love to paint, painting is a passion of mine. Some people have natural desire to paint. I find it relaxing. You can explore issues in this world and the next realm.” says Glory Charles. While some of his peers are enjoying the spring weather on the basketball courts, he is in his room, putting his effort on the canvas. Glory who lives in Islington with his family, is now seeking to make his mark in the professional world of painting. Glory still has memories of growing up in the hills of Sugar Loaf in the first two years of his life in Antigua. It is these memories and experiences which form part of the meanings behind his paintings “My paintings reflect life in general. It reflects the good experiences and the bad,” he said. It is this affinity with the brush, which caught the attention of Dr. Helga Fox, an art critic and owner of H F Contemporary Art. After striking up a conversation with this 23 year old Fine Art graduate of Middlesex University he eventually showed her his work. She was instantly impressed, noting “With Glory’s work the subject matter is very intriguing…..it is an almost Egyptian mythological approach to his work, the colours are vibrant…that is in him from early childhood I think.” Dr. Fox has since taken Glory under her wings, helping to perfect his craft, and showcasing his paintings around the world. “I went to Austria and took his work with me…people liked it,” she said. Glory’s flirtation with the brush, started when he was in university. The young painter recalled, “I started when I used to do art and design in college…illustration and textiles..” When I did painting courses, I realized I had a talent for painting... I then decided to pursue it.” Glory’s parents were not exactly thrilled that their son was spending so much time painting. “My parents have come around now. They see how many shows I have been doing and now they see the finished results. Initially they would say ‘get a job, get a plan….a proper plan….” he recalls with a smile. Glory is hoping to have his work exhibited in some of the major art shows coming up later this year including one in Abu Dhabi. He is patient, as he knows that getting into some exhibitions are very difficult. However, he is determined, full of energy and hopeful for the future. Dr. Fox is confident that her student will make a breakthrough in the art world and she is willing to continue mentoring this young man. “Glory is very good in his style. He can become as good as Chris Ofili, a great artist of the modern times. Glory Charles could equally make it in London....” she says with pride. If Glory were not painting professionally, he perhaps would been looking to cement himself in the music industry. “Growing up I was into music…I wanted to be a musician. There are no regrets about his change of heart. It appears as though he is following his heart and not the music. He is unsure of many things, like whether he will do further studies. He is sure of one thing however he wants to paint and to have his paintings appreciated the world over. Glory’s painting: “The Reader” L-R, Dr. Helga Fox, Glory Some of Glory’s paintings reflect his many experiences Glory: “I love to paint” The High Commission assists Glory in fulfilling his dreams. See page 6

PAGE 6

6 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008

PAGE 7

7 The Antigua Harvard Connection Research conducted by a research fellow attached to Harvard University has found that the money of an Antiguan born sugar plantation owner founded the Harvard Law School in the 1700s. Catherine S. Manegold made the revelation as the special guest speaker of the Rotary Club of Antigua-Sundown recently. She is a research fellow at the W. E. B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Research at Harvard University. She embarked upon a major treatise covering the life and times of the Royals of New England, who had one of the largest farms in Massachusetts, where the university is based. It was called Ten Hills Farm, now situated in Medford, a typically middle class neighbourhood. She said that when she began her research three years ago, she had no idea that it would bring her to Antigua, but she said, “all paths ended up leading me here.” Antigua is where Isaac Royal and his family made their considerable fortune as plantation owners. Their property was in the area called Royals Bay. She said that her work has mainly tried to remove the veil of ignorance from the people of Massachusetts who have worked hard to deny their slavery past. She said, “I would say 99 people out of 100 or the proportion may be even higher (if asked) if there ever was slavery in this part of the United States, 99 people would say no there never was. It’s a part of the history that has been completely erased.” To this day, the remnants of Ten Hills Farm show the main house with a slave house nearby, which is considered the last standing slave house in the north. This is where Antiguan slaves were housed. Isaac Royal Sr. is the son of a carpenter born in Maine. They had to leave Maine due to warfare with the American Indians and settled in Boston. Looking for ways to make money, it is the suspicion that he took the advice of an uncle, who was a sail-maker and decided to make his way to Antigua, which was looking for white settlers to increase the black-white ratio in the island. Manegold said, “It was a very focused intent to increase the white population.” Arriving in 1700 at 20years-old, he made a lot of money in sugar as well through supplying slaves, notably to the governor of Massachusetts at the time. He left Antigua in 1736 after the slave uprising and took 27 slaves with him to Ten Hills Farm. He died in 1738, but his son Isaac Royal Jr., who was born in Antigua, inherited all his father’s holdings at 22 years. Living most of his life in Massachusetts, Royal Jr. travelled back and forth to Antigua to check on the plantation. Manegold said that by this generation there were few signs of the source of the family’s wealth but there were some such as the pineapples on the gatehouse pillars or the hummingbirds included in a painting of Royal’s granddaughters. “These things were gradually clouded and erased,” she said. When the American Revolution began, Royal left for England, where he contracted Smallpox, which Manegold said he had been afraid of his whole life. He wrote and rewrote his will to settle the vast wealth his family amassed in two generations. He bequeathed in his 20 page will to the Harvard University at his death in 1781, which was over a 100 years old at the time, 2,000 acres of land in western Massachusetts for the establishment of either a Professor of ‘Physic’ (Medicine) or Law. Harvard chose law, and established the Royal Professorship of Law, named after Isaac Royal. Manegold said until recently, the dean of the university always sat in that seat but the present one declined because of the growing awareness of where the money came from. The research fellow came to Antigua to conduct further studies and found useful information at the National Archive to contribute to her book, which will be released in 2009. (Reprinted from the Antigua Sun) The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 Harvard University is one of the top universities in the world

PAGE 8

8 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA GETS TOP AWARD Antigua and Barbuda was voted “Best Port Welcome to passengers coming ashore” when The Dream World Cruise Destinations announced its 2007 Awards. A certificate to that effect was presented at the just-concluded Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention in Miami, Florida. Other winners in this category were Dubai, United Arab Emirates Invergordon, UK, La Rochelle, France, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Spain. Criteria for the recent survey include berthing requests being dealt with quickly and efficiently; the cruise line’s relationship with the ports; ease in disembarking passengers; issues surrounding congestion and port fees. According to Dream World Cruise Destinations, there are other considerations, and it is never easy to select one port over another, one destination over another. However, “recognition is given to ports and destinations who have delivered their product or service in a commendable way.” Categories for the 2007 awards are most improved port facilities, most efficient port services, best port welcome, most responsive port, best turnaround port operations, most improved terminal facilities, most efficient turnaround operator, most improved destination, best destination experience – organised tours, best destination experience – independent sightseeing, best turnaround destination, and destination with best tour guides. Commendations were also awarded for best attraction experience, service companies and best new attraction. All of the winners and category details are highlighted in the Spring 2008 issue of Dream World Cruise Destinations Magazine which is published in the UK by Ashcroft & Associates Ltd. and distributed in the USA by DSW. Sexual Offences Unit gives public 24-hour access Members of the public have now been given 24-hour access to the police force, particularly on matters involving complaints about sexual offences. That is according to the Head of the new Sexual Offences Unit, Inspector Cornelius Charles, who spoke to the media yesterday during a special briefing to inform the public that the unit was ready to serve its purpose. “As in all cases when starting something afresh, you will have some issues that need to be ironed out,” Inspector Charles stated, noting that they were hindered slightly from full operations because of certain difficulties. He made specific reference to difficulties in establishing the new telephone system, but said the problems no longer exist. “So now I am advising the public, those who have had fliers, and called certain hours and did not get a response, we are now saying you can call 24 hours and someone will answer your call,” Inspector Charles stated. The 24-hour telephone numbers are 562-5729/30. Additionally, members of the unit can be reached at 721-4569/70/71/72. He said that shortly the numbers will be available toll free for people who may not have enough credit on their phones but need to make an emergency call. “Some of these suggestions came from Gender Affairs and WAR (Women Against Rape), where persons would have complained to them as well and the information would have been fed to us. So we are thankful for the co-ordination that is going on between us and them,” Inspector Charles further added. “All calls and all information are confidential,” Commissioner Nelson further stressed. Special Constable David Loftus, who was sworn in this week, noted that the unit has been staffed with the type of resources that would be responsive to the sensitive nature of the information that the public may wish to share. Loftus brings over 30 years of investigating experiences in rape, narcotics and customs.He has also served with the US DEA, US Secret Services, the FBI, Dutch National Police, and Interpol. Continued from front page Stay Calm scored the Antigua Breweries Cup for Best Swan in Division A, while its counterpart, Julian Sincock’s Swan 51, Northern Child, snared the American Express Cup for Best Swan in Division A. Finally, longtime judge Arthur Wullschleger, the famous “Tuna” himself who this year served as the jury arbitrator, was given the Jan Santos Trophy, so named for Sailing Week’s vice-chairman, for his long-time distinguished service to the regatta. Youth Conference held in Sri Lanka The Antiguan and Barbudan delegation to the recently held Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting in Sri Lanka say the meeting was successful. The delegation to the April 27-30 meeting was headed by Hon. Winston Williams, Youth Minister and included H.E Dr. Carl Roberts, Antigua and Barbuda's High Commissioner to London, Director of Youth Cleon Athill and Kareem Payne, Antigua and Barbuda’s Commonwealth Youth Ambassador. Under the theme, 'Youth and Peace-Building', they debated emerging issues related to young people in the Commonwealth, in particular the links between peacebuilding, youth development and social transformation. Delegations from some 40 Commonwealth countries attended the conference. The meeting also took the opportunity to review policy directions for the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) and enabled ministers to review current activities towards strengthening the agenda for youth development. Mandates from the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting last year provided a focus for discussions, particularly the findings of the Commonwealth Commis-

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9 The Tourist Office in London has already begun its vigorous promotion of Romantic Rhythms Antigua and Barbudans inaugural international music festival featuring some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Down to perform during the June 13-15 festival are international artistes Lionel Richie, Shaggy, Keisha Cole, Kenny Rodgers, Maxi Priest, Brian McKnight, Destra Garcia and the Atlantik. Performing live at two concerts, the celebrity headline acts will be supported by leading regional performers, setting the stage for one of the most sought after events in the Caribbean calendar. Known for his romantic R&B Ballads, Academy and Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter and record producer Lionel Richie is one of the primary headliners. He has sold over 100 million records and his most memorable hits include ‘All Night Long’, ‘Say You Say Me’ and ‘Dancing on the Ceiling.’ Another headliner is the prolific country music singer, producer and song writer Kenny Rogers. His career spans six decades with more than 70 hit singles across various music genres including ‘Lucille’, ‘Islands in the Stream’ and ‘Lady.’ Grammy-nominated singer, pop and R&B musician Brian McKnight is a multiinstrumentalist made famous by his hit singles, ‘One Last Cry’, ‘Back at One’ and ‘The Only One for Me.’ Keyshia Cole, Grammy Award nominated R&B singer and songwriter, is famed for her soulful voice and platinum debut album ‘The Way It Is.’ Jamaican reggae singer Shaggy stands out with his distinctive sub-baritone voice and chart topping hits ‘Oh Carolina’, ‘It Wasn’t Me’ and ‘Angel’. Known as the “King of Lovers Rock” Maxi Priest is an English reggae singer of Jamaican heritage whose hit singles include ‘Close to you,’ ‘Just a little bit Longer’ and ‘That Girl.’ Adding to the musical extravaganza will be the harmonious vocal skills and eccentric fashion style of Trinidadian Soca Diva, Destra Garcia, and Atlantik, also from Trinidad and Tobago, known for their high energy performances encompassing soca , reggae and R&B. The main concert venue will be the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium with performances on Friday and Saturday and mini concerts at other locations throughout the island. Director of Tourism, UK and Europe Carol Hay said, “We’re delighted to be welcoming the musical skills of such well known performers to our first Music Festival. “Antigua has a rich history in which music has played an integral role, and our focus on the romance genre celebrates the music of the Caribbean and internationally acclaimed lyrics of today.” The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 Sweet Music in the Air: Antigua Takes Centre Stage L-R, Lionel Ritchie, Keyshia Cole, Shaggy, Kenny Rogers

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ADVERTISEMENT The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008

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11 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 ADVERTISEMENT DonÂ’t miss LondonÂ’s largest, most colourful Charity Fair! Sample the best of global cuisine; Choose from an inspiring selection of ceramics; Jewellery and glass Adorn yourself with scarves, hats ands shoes! Give the house a make-over with exotic flowers, textiles and rugs; dance to the beat of world music, unwind at the all-day licensed bar!

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12 The Antigua and Barduda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 In 1493 when Christopher Columbus discovered Antiguahe named it in honour of Santa Maria la Antigua of a church in Seville,he was after the “new world” in search of gold and resources in the name of the Spanish queen. Then Antigua was partially uninhabited virtually undeveloped compared to the European empires. Fast forward 515 years later. Columbus would perhaps be surprised to see that this country is now one of the most attractive destinations in the world for investors. According to the Doing Business Reporta publication of the World Bank Antigua is one of the top fifty countries for doing business ahead of developed nations like Luxemborg, Italy, UAE and Brazil. In the Latin American and Caribbean region, Antigua is ranked 4th. A remarkable position! A more in depth look at the statistics shows why investors have been flocking to this small Caribbean island. When it comes to the time it takes to start a business, Antigua is in the top 30 of the world ahead of economic powerhouses like Japan and Norway. Investors want to ensure that their investments are protected. Antigua does that quite well! We rank in the top 20 in the world for protecting investors. ahead of Australia. Antigua and Barbuda is not just about the beach. We’re also about ensuring investors get value for money. The Doing Business Report has shown that investors looking for opportunities in Antigua and Barbuda will not be disappointed! Antigua And Barbuda Makes its Mark Columbus sets sail for the “new world We’re not just about the beach! Government Gets Support from Milan Prime Minister Spencer has announced that his government's “Light Up Your Neighbourhood” street lights programme, one of the crime fighting measures he outlined in his State of Nation address on crime last year, has received a significant boost with the conclusion of agreement with City of Milan to fund the purchase and installation of several hundred street lights that will soon be installed in St John's. “I am grateful for the generosity of the Mayor and the City of Milan for agreeing in short order to join us in funding this initiative,” said Prime Minister. “With this commitment, the City of Milan becomes the third foreign partner -along with the governments of Libya and Morocco to have contributed to this important initiative,” he added. .Mayor of the City of Milan, Mrs Letizia Moratti said: “I am pleased that my municipality is able to contribute to this initiative, which I understand is but one of the crime fighting initiatives your Prime Minister has introduced in an effort to address the crime situation in your country,” said the Mayor. Mayor Moratti was elected as Mayor of Milan in 2006. Prior to that she was Italy's Minister of Education, University and Research in the cabinet of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi from 2001-2006. CARICOM’s Crime Crackdown CARICOM Governments are to take joint action against murders, kidnappings, drug trafficking, violent gangs, and to sign a Maritime and Airspace and Security Agreement in three months. Further, the leaders agreed at April special Heads of Government Summit on crime in Port of Spain, to re-establish regional institutions and measures used to secure the Caribbean during last year’s Cricket World Cup. “I think the most important decision of the Conference was a commitment to enhance and expand the very successful arrangements that were put in place for CWC 2007,” said host Prime Minister Patrick Manning at the closing news conference. Among those institutions and measures to be reimplemented is the re-establishment of a single domestic space in the Caribbean, said prime minister Manning. The leaders also agreed to renew the system of having airlines submit advance passenger lists on the persons who are booked to be flown into the Caribbean. The leaders have committed to re-establishing a common visa for visitors to the region.

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13 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 MP Hughes Outlines Agenda As representative for All Saints East and St. Luke made his inaugural address in the Lower House of Parliament yesterday, he made it clear that he intends to “hit the ground running” in his advocacy for his constituency, pledging that his stay in the House of Representatives would not be short-lived. Hughes was elected by a landslide in March. The by-election took place after the death of then MP for the constituency, Hon. Charlesworth Samuel In his first presentation in the House of Representatives, Hughes outlined some of his plans for the service of his constituency, which include relief measures for people experiencing hardship and measures to help the youth in the community. In the first instance, this will entail the provision of a monthly basket of goods for elderly people in All Saints East and St. Luke, to help alleviate financial hardship. Hughes said that people are currently being enrolled in this programme, which will be financed out of the constituency allowance. He said that he would also seek to promote sporting activities to help counter drug use among youth. system, and promote South-South cooperation for development. Antigua and Barbuda, which is part of the Latin American and Caribbean geographical region, holds the annual chairmanship of the Group of 77 for 2008. The chairmanship is rotated among the three developing countries regions of the world: Africa, Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean . Museum Seeks Assistance The Antigua and Barbuda Museum one of the depositories for our heritage is seeking financial assistance to replace over 50 windows. According to a statement from the Museum “The building is in need of constant upkeep and the time has come when me must replace the wonderful sash windows in this neoclassical structure.” The 258 year old building is used to house the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda. “The windows are double hung sash windows of large proportion and the Board has chosen Domus windows, a quality product our our times in order to cut down on maintenance and still maintain the architectural integrity of the building,” according to a Museum statement. Donations made by overseas members will be given a receipt for income tax claim purposes The cost per window does not include installation of approximately EC$1000 per window. The cost of the windows are as follows: 26 domed windows EC$ 3.086.46 23 upper windows EC$ 2,197.30 Front middle 3 upper EC$2,355.03 Front Door don. By DomusEC$5,211.00 2 Half rounds above door EC$1,238.20 2 Half Rounds N/S EC$1,559.48 For more information you can contact the Museum at 1268-462-1469/4930. The museum’s e-mail address is museum@candw.ag and the website is www.antiguamuseums.org In need of repairs! Prime Minister Spencer receives Award of Excellence On 28 April, 2008 Prime Minister the Honourable Baldwin Spencer received an award of excellence for his stewardship of the Group of 77 and China. The award was presented to the Prime Minister by Mr. Mourad Ahmia, Executive Secretary of the Group 77 at the United Nations. The Prime Minister is the first ever recipient of this award in the forty-four year history of the Group of 77, and is being presented to him “in recognition of his able leadership and outstanding contribution in advancing SouthSouth solidarity and safeguarding the collective interests of the Developing World.” “I was pleased but humbled when I was told that not only was I to be given this award but that I was the first Ministerial Chairman to receive it,” said the Prime Minister. “Prime Minister Spencer has shown throughout his country's chairmanship that he is a champion of the interests of the developing countries and both an ardent supporter and promoter of South-South Cooperation between and among the countries of the southern hemisphere. He is therefore fully deserving of this award,' said Ahmia. The award, which is in the form of plaque, is formally known as the Excellence Leadership Award, and is being presented on the occasion of the meeting of the G-77 High Level Panel of Eminent Personalities on the Development Platform for the South, which is being held at the Jolly Beach Resort on 29-30 April. The Group of 77 is the largest intergovernmental organization of developing states in the United Nations, which provides the means for the countries of the South to articulate and promote their collective economic interests and enhance their joint negotiating capacity on all major international economic issues within the United Nations Prime Minister Spencer receiving the Award from the Executive Secretary of the G77 and China Mr Mourad Ahmia

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14 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 IT ACCESS Four years of achievement: Promises Made, Promises Delivered On the 23 rd of March 2004, the United Progressive Party (UPP) swept into office. Armed with its Agenda for Chang e, the governing party promised to introduce a school meal programme as well as to revolutionize education by putting more computers at the fingertips of students and the wider citizenry .As soon as ministers got settled into respective offices, they started to put these promises into action Today the school meals programme and the IT programme have been just a few of the many hallmarks of the administration of the Hon Prime Minister, Baldwin Spencer. (Left)A happy student gets comfortable in the Mobile IT Unit, (Center) A view from inside the Mobile IT Unit (Right) the Hon. Prime Minister opens another Computer Access Centre SCHOOL MEALS PROBRAMME Happy children and a happy government! The School Meals Programme provides nutritious meals for students across the country!

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15 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 She’s spent most of her life living in London. Joycelyn Lewis has seen it all; snow covered tress, the famous changing of the guard and all the niceties of London life. In spite of the joys of London life she still has a special place in her heart for her homeland Antigua. If you ever have the pleasure to meet her on visiting the High Commission, you will instantly be dazzled by the broad smile and bubbly personality. Joycelyn, the Personal Assistant to H.E Dr Carl Roberts, High Commissioner for Antigua and Barbuda has lived in more villages than she can remember. Her love of Antiguan food and Carnival are pulling her back home and in the next five to ten years she plans on retuning to Antigua to build her dream home (and of course enjoy the famous ducana and saltfish!) In this edition of the Newsletter we get up close with Joycelyn. What do you like most about living in London? Definitely the shopping! What do you miss most about Antigua? Food! London can’t beat home cooked Antiguan food. I miss sitting on the beach and on the veranda and feeling that nice cool tropical breeze. What is your favourite Antiguan food? I have too many favourites to mention. But there are a few; Ducana and saltfish and cassie, sugar fungi and saltfish. Who Is your role model? Minister Louis Farakhan is my role model. He is the type of role model that we as black people need to have in our community. He is a man of his word and we need more people like that! He’s known for being very controversial. But that does not make him a bad person. If you were not working at High Commission where would you be? I would be running my own Virtual Assistant business from my home office? FACT FILE Name: Joycelyn Patricia Lewis Position: Personal Assistant Age: 34 Residence in UK: Islington Resident in Antigua: Villa Education: St. John’s Primary School Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Girls School Most memorable moment? Playing mass in Antigua with Dynamics in 1995. What s the most interesting thing about you, people are unaware of? People are unaware of my creative skills. I love to design anything from web sites to flyers and business forms. Being creative makes me feel good! What’s your career goal? I want to open my own secretarial business. I want it to be very successful. Henry: Bread Prices to Remain Stable The government is expecting that given the availability of a cheaper source of flour and new concessions, the bakers will not institute another increase in the price of bread. Trade Coordinator Ambassador Dr. Clarence Henry said, “We (the government) expect that the price of bread and baked products to remain the same.” He reminded that the government would be waiving the 15 per cent duties on yeast and baking powder and the 10 per cent Customs Service Tax on yeast, shortening and the plastic bags used by customers to take away the bread. There is also the fact that the government has triggered the derogation of Article 164 of the Treaty of Chaguaramas and imported flour from Guyana through Gloria’s Ltd, a local importer. That flour is approximately $14 less per 100 pound bag than that imported from the St. Vincent mill. He insisted that though cheaper, the flour from Guyana is of excellent quality and supplies currently go to Trinidad and plans are being made to ship flour to Suriname as well. The trade coordinator said that these efforts should account for something, at least to have the price of bread and baked products remain the same. “If taken together, the price should remain stable for sometime into the future notwithstanding any external forces,” said the coordinator. (Reprinted from Antigua Sun)

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16 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 Ambrose: West Indies Improving Legendary West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose said he has seen some improvements by the West Indies during the recent Test and One-Day International home series against Sri Lanka in the Caribbean. Sri Lanka won the first Test by 121 runs in Guyana and the West Indies bounced back to win the second Test by six wickets to square the two-match series 1-1. The regional side also won the ensuing three-match One-Day International series 2-0 with the final game being washed out in St. Lucia. Although reluctant to make a final verdict after one series, Ambrose, who played 98 Tests for the regional side between 1988 and 2000, admitted the team did show some improvement and appear to be gelling nicely under new skipper Chris Gayle. “I am one of those guys who don’t like to really say things after just one series. "What I will, however, say is that I have seen some improvements. You can see that they are playing together as a team, which is very important,” Ambrose said. “I think they still need to be a little bit more consistent so we have to see what happens when Australia comes. "Australia is the best team in the world and so it will be a different challenge, but I must say that against Sri Lanka they seemed to be together and they are playing as a team.” The West Indies will be facing world champions Australia in another threeTest and five One-Day International (ODI) home series in the Caribbean next month. Australia will begin their tour of the Caribbean on 12 May with the first Test against the West Indies at Sabina Park in Jamaica from 22 to 26 May. Both sides will clash in the second Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua from 30 May to 3 June and Barbados will host the third Test from 12-16 June at the Kensington Oval. Ambrose, who claimed 405 Test wickets during his career, said he is optimistic the West Indies will at least be competitive against the Australians. The tall, Antiguan fast bowler said he will not be shocked if the West Indies spring a few surprises against the Australians. “Of course, I believe they will be competitive against Australia. "We all know that it will not be an easy series, but if our guys go out there and compete that is all we are asking for. We want them to compete to the best of their abilities,” Ambrose said. “I believe that there might just be a few surprises by the West Indies against Australia. Just don’t take anything for granted.” he said (Reprinted from Antigua Sun) Government Negotiates Reimbursement To Colonial Homes Clients Twenty-six individuals who made deposits to Colonial Homes project over nine years ago were reimbursed their full deposit during a presentation ceremony at the Prime Minister's Office. The cheques were presented by Prime Minister, Hon. Baldwin Spencer and Minister of Housing & Social Transformation, the Hon. Hilson Baptiste. Minister Baptiste thanked the individuals for their patience and added that this achievement was a difficult task but he was determined to ensure that the persons who invested in the Harry Mungalsingh housing project and never received a home were reimbursed all their monies. Minister Baptiste said that Mr. Mungalsingh had entered into an agreement with the former administration and after negotiations broke down, he left the island with individuals' money and not one house being built. “It has been four years since we took over this government and believe me it wasn't easy …”This is a complex situation where he (Mungalsingh) was given a large portion of land for one dollar and we have to go over all of that to ensure that the matter is properly rectified”, Minister Baptiste said while addressing members of the media and individuals who came to collect their cheques. Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer said while other negotiations are still ongoing, it was felt that the investors should at least be reimbursed. “It was felt that at least you should be guaranteed the monies that you had deposited and we felt that we had an obligation to ensure that those monies were returned to you as expeditiously as possible”, the PM stated. He also added that the individuals have been extremely patient, as some of them had invested their last dollar into the housing project in an effort to provide comfortable homes for themselves and their families. Over half a million EC dollars is expected to be paid out to 26 clients. Left (Prime Minister Spencer and Minister Baptiste presenting the cheques to the individuals.) . Right (Prime Minister Spencer speaks to one of the recipients)

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17 “The gulf region is a remarkable one and the countries that I visited are currently enjoying an unprecedented economic boom due to the sky-high oil and gas prices, and I was particularly struck by the warm hospitality with which my delegation and I were received in each of the three countries we visited,” the Prime Minister said. He also said he was able to discuss the various development needs of Antigua and Barbuda with each head of State and/or government of the three countries he visited, noting that he chose to highlight his country’s needs in the fields of tourism, education, culture, sports, ICT, health, sanitation and bilateral economic investment. “Clearly then, each of my counterparts and I see this as a vital first step on the road to an enhanced partnership at the bilateral level and a broader vehicle for future SouthSouth co-operation,” he said. “Our Ambassador to the Middle East Sir Ramez Hadeed and Ambassador to the United Nations, Dr. John W. Ashe, will be following up through their counterparts on many of the areas that were discussed on this trip,” the Prime Minister said. The PM’s first stop was the state of Qatar, where he was a featured speaker at the 8th Doha Forum on Development, Democracy and Free Trade, in his capacity as chairman of the Group of 77 and China. He also held bilateral discussions with Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar. Qatar, a former pearl-fishing centre and was once one of the poorest Gulf states, is now one of the richest countries in the region, thanks to the exploitation of large oil and gas fields since the 1940’s. From Qatar, the Prime Minister and his delegation travelled to the Kingdom of Bahrain, where he held bilateral discussions with Sheikh Khalifah ibn Sulman al-Khalifah, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. In a region experiencing an oil boom, Bahrain has the fastest growing economy in the Arab world. It also has the freest economy in the Middle East and one of the freest overall in the world. The Prime Minister concluded his mid-east trip with a visit to the State of Kuwait, where he held bilateral discussions with a number of senior officials of the Kuwaiti government, including the Amir, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Saber; the Prime Minister, His Highness Shiekh Nasser AlMohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the director of the Kuwait Fund, the director of Kuwait Investment Authority, and the chairman of Kuwait Petroleum Company. The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 (Left) Hon. Prime Minister Spencer and His Highness the Prime Minister of Kuwait taking the salute. (Right) Hon. Prime Minister Spencer touring a factory Fresh from his visit to the Gulf States of Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Kuwait, Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has called his first trip to the region a resounding success. Romantic Rhythms Chairperson (from far right) Dr. Alvin Edwards, Euphoria Sponsors representatives Paula Lee Corporate Communications Manager at Cable & Wireless, Paul Ryan General Manager of Antigua Motors, Marie-Antoinette Mora Public Relations & Marketing Manager of the The ABI Financial Group along with Romantic Rhythms Sponsorship sub-committee chairperson Joyce Henry and Director General of Tourism (Ag) Corthwright Marshall Middle East Tour was “Successful” Romantic Rhythms Sponsors Announced The Romantic Rhythms Festival Committee is proud to announce that The ABI Financial Group of Companies, American Airlines, Antigua Motors and Cable and Wireless have signed on at the Euphoria level to sponsor Romantic Rhythms. The Euphoria Level of Sponsors represents the highest level of corporate sponsorship available. Also joining as major sponsors are LIAT 1974 Ltd., and The Antigua Hotel and Tourist Association at the Amorous Level, and Antigua Distillery Ltd., as the Elation Sponsor. "The response received to this initiative has been tremendous and we are proud to unveil these corporate citizens as our sponsors, and thank them for their participation in Romantic Rhythms", remarked Chairperson of the Romantic Rhythms Festival Committee, Dr. Alvin Edwards as the seven confirmed.

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18 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 Caricom Awards Lara Brian Charles Lara, the nation's world record holding batsman, will be one of four persons to receive the highest award of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in July. CARICOM chairman and Bahamas Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham made the announcement during a news conference at end of a recent Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference. Lara, a former captain of the West Indies cricket team, has already received this nation's highest award, the Trinity Cross, for his sporting achievements. The Conference agreed to award the Order of the Caribbean (Community) (OCC) to four distinguished Caribbean nationals Professor Rex Nettleford, of Jamaica, Dr Nicolas Liverpool, of Dominica, Dr George Lamming, of Barbados, and Lara, Ingraham said. He said the award ceremony will take place during the 29th Regular Meeting of the Caricom Heads of Government Conference, in Antigua, which takes place from July 2-5. (Reprinted from Trinidad Guardian) Sir Viv Foundation Gets donation The Parkside School, a visiting cricket academy out of England, has donated thousands of dollars worth of cricket and football gears to the Sir Vivian Richards Foundation and the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association. During a brief ceremony at the Antigua Recreation Grounds in April the 120-member delegation, which includes three youth cricket and football teams, made the significant donation to the past West Indies captain, Sir Vivian Richards, who accepted the gifts on behalf of his foundation and on behalf of the nation of Antigua and Barbuda. The goodies range from cricket bats, shoes, cricket pats, batting cups, balls, wicket-keeping gloves bags, cricket uniforms to footballs, goalkeeper gloves and nets. Director of Sports at the Parkside School, Ian Stamp, in making the official presentation to Sir Vivian, said that after hearing of the Sir Vivian Richards Foundation, they decided that it was a vision they would want to support while it would have been their way of giving back to their hosts. “In England, before we came on tour, we were put in contact with the Sir Vivian Richards Foundation and we were very impressed by the aims of the foundation and thought that it was a very worthwhile cause that we wanted to support and we wanted to be giving something back to the people who were going to be hosting us here in Antigua anticipating the fantastic welcome that we had,” Stamp said . “I would like to say a very big thanks to the parents of Parkside School because without them none of us would be here and the fund-raising efforts have enabled us to offer these gifts of a variety of sporting equipment to the Sir Vivian Richards Foundation to be distributed in various areas around the island,” he added. But for the Parkside’s young cricketers and their parents, it won’t be all batting, fielding, bowling and cheering as they have already begun to enjoy the lovely island of Antigua. “I would just like to say, on behalf of all of us gathered here from Parkside School, it is a real honour to be here and to meet all the people here and for Sir Viv himself to be here in our presence it really is a very special moment for us,” Stamp said. Accepting the donation, Sir Vivian thanked Stamp and the Parkside School for taking the initiative to make such a considerable gesture – promising that the gears provided will go a long way in the youths’ development. “Let me take this opportunity to thank Parkside School and what is more interesting than anything else is that being involved with the Ministry and Sports Tourism and the things that we are trying to achieve for the future, this to me, is one of the best chances that we would have had and it wouldn’t have been possible, in my opinion, without the help of Stanley Francis (National Tours and Services),” he said. “I know for sure that the gears we have here are such a wide variety of so many things and I know the country in which we live in that we are going to be so appreciative to these facts that we do have something to compete with,” Richards added. (Reprinted from the Antigua Sun) Students of the Parkside School

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19 Outside the rigours of negotiating bilateral and multilateral agreements, foreign missions and consulates are engaged in a vital role: assisting citizens abroad. From giving advice to Antiguan and Barbudans on where to get information on accommodation, to providing information to citizens in distress, the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission plays a vital role. It is important therefore for citizens to register with the High Commission when they arrive in the UK. In times of crisis, it is very difficult for the High Commission to assist citizens, if we are unaware of the whereabouts of our citizens in the UK. Registration should not be taken for granted. Once registered, the High Commission will be in position to offer regular updates to citizens about issues back home or important changes to UK immigration laws This information can be made available through this newsletter or other media like e-mails or the web site. Register today! Our friendly staff are standing by! Antigua and Barduda High Commission Issue 125 March/April 2008 Co mmissioner to Reform Investigation Unit Commissioner of Police Gary Nelson is stressing police officers’ responsibility to the public, through the revamping of an internal investigation unit that deals with complaints from ordinary citizens. “I’m trying to really push hard the idea of taking responsibility; of being responsible for your actions on the street and to the public,” Nelson said. He said he reformed the investigative unit, which is now headed by one of the assistant commissioners, with inspectors and sergeants who help to investigate complaints. Nelson indicated that the unit had not been previously functioning efficiently. The Commissioner said he has gotten some public complaints, which he numbered and gave a due date for the investigator to get back to him. The investigators are expected to speak with the complainants and keep them informed throughout the process. Once a complaint is made, the accused officer is made aware of it and given the opportunity to respond before it is referred back to the complainants to inform them of the officer’s response. “It has to be a fair and timely process, not set down for months,” he said. Despite the prevalence of reports of police brutality and wrongdoing, Nelson said that the number of cases he has is not high. “I don’t know if the public is waiting to see if I mean what I say or what. I hear a lot of rumours but I don’t really put much value on them. I want to see the case and investigate them properly.” Commissioner Nelson said he wants the community to help fight crime through community watches or street lighting because the police force cannot do it alone. But he said he understands that community support relies on a good police image which in turn depends on the respect of the community adding that if they believe the police are corrupt or doing wrong then there can be no respect. Nelson added that if needed, he will bring in the help of special criminal investigators for cases. “Whatever is required I will do,” he said. (Reprinted from Antigua Sun ) Police Commissioner Gary Nelson Foreign Missions: Assisting Citizens Abroad Antigua and Barbudans citizens are spread throughout the UK

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20 Antigua and Barduda High Commission Issue 126 March/April 2008 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070  Fax: 020 7258 7486 www.antigua-barbuda.com From underwater caves to stud farms, you’ve heard things about Antigua and Barbuda that may have sounded too good to be true! However, you were not too sure how to ascertain the validity of these claims! Well worry no more! With the help of Dr. Reg Murphy of the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, we are going to help to debunk these myths. We reprint below an extract of an article by well known Antiguan historian Dr. Reg Murphy. Myth: Volcano under the St. John's Cathedral The Anglican Cathedral in St. John's is thought to be built on a volcano. In fact, it is actually built on a fossilised reef. Myth:The Siboney versus Archaic Peoples It is commonly held that the first people who lived on Antigua were the Siboney. In fact, the Siboney never existed on Antigua. We use the term Archaic People to describe these stone aged settlers. Myth: The Arawaks and The Caribs When the Europeans arrived in the Caribbean, they suggested that the Amerindians they met and recorded in their journals were two different peoples, the peaceful Arawaks and the warring Caribs. In fact, the true Arawak and Caribs lived side by side in the Guyanas and still do to this day. Myth: The Caribs were cannibals Completely false. The need for the Caribs to be labelled as cannibals was linked with the need for the arriving Europeans obtaining permission for acquiring and exploiting their land. Waladli versus Wadadli The actual " Carib " name for Antigua is Wadadli. In fact the name was Waladli. The mistake occurred when a popular band, wrote a song using Wadadli. From this time on Waladli became Wadadli. Myth: Bat's Cave leads to Dominica Bat's Cave leads to Dominica and that slaves escaped through it or raiding Carib warriors, who carried off governors' wives. False. The depth of water between the island and the bat cave would have to be more than three thousand feet underground. Definitely false, but what a story! Myth: Barbuda was a Stud Farm False. Source: Antigua Museum Myth Buster: Fact and Fiction You’ve been waiting for almost a year, and now the Carnival festivities are fast approaching. As much as you love Carnival, how much do you actually know about the festival? To help you get your mind in shape for the summer festival, see how many questions you can answer. The answers will be provided in the next issue of this Newsletter. 1. When was the 50th anniversary of Carnival celebrated? 2. Who is the only calypsonian to have won the crown 4 times in a row? 3. What was the name of the Road March hit in 1998? 4. King Progress won his only calypso title in what year? 5. What was theme of 2007 Carnival competition? 6. Who won Miss Teenage in 1993? 7. Which calypso monarchs are undefeated? 8. Who won the steel band competition in 1968? Sunset Rhythms Held as Warmup to Romantic Rhythms True to the theme, the Sunset Rhythms miniconcert in April , paved the way for Romantic Rhythms The Antigua and Barbuda International Music Festival scheduled to take place from June 12 June 15. With the mood already set by The Panache Steel Orchestra, the sun began its descent, and the atmosphere at Russell's Fort James transformed as spectators gathered to witness the slate of talented local performers and Jamaican Reggae Singer Etana. Etana, thrilled the audience with her hit songs, "Wrong Address", "I am not afraid", "Roots" and "Warrior Love". The reggae artiste also sang a compilation of songs from other popular Jamaican reggae singers. Antigua's resident artistes also had the opportunity to shine at the event. Appearing on the big stage was Tian Wynter, 2nd runner up in the 2007 Groovy Soca Monarch Competition accompanied by Karen Whyte. New and upcoming members of the Chosen Sounds Family also performed new and unreleased songs during the show.