Anguilla Life Magazine 52 pages Spring/Summer 2019

anguilla life magazine

US $2 EC $5

Volume XXVIII Number 1 Spring/Summer 2019

CMYK Anguilla Spring/Summer 2019 Volume XXVIII #1 4/24/19 Cut size 9x12 inches

PHOTO 8597 CMYK.tif

CMYK Anguilla Summer/Fall Page 2 IFC Image Size: 8 x 11 Cut size: 9 x 12

anguilla life, page 3

anguilla life

The Magazine That Covers Anguilla In Depth From A to Z

Vol XXVIII #1 Spring/Summer 2019 Editor s Note: Our 2017/18 editions were put on hold due to Hurricane Irma set backs. We hope you ll enjoy catching up with some originally planned features... AXA s 50th Anniversary highlights, boat racing, progress, recoveries, tributes as well as new events, people and places.

AARF: Anguilla Animal Rescue Foundation by Suzie Donahue Beaches: 2019 Boat Racing Schedule Boat Racing: The Oft Overlooked B Class Racing Boats by Jackie Cestero; 2016-18 A Class Champs Books: Blue Beans by Patricia Adams Review by Rita Celestine Carty; Freddie Hughes by Terry Brady Calypso Reigns Community: Rotary...A Lifeline For Anguilla by Jacquie Ruan Diversions Day & Night EcoTourism: Anguilla’s Chicks of Summer by Jackie Cestero Gardening: Flower Power Hotels: Hotelier Profiles Honouring Island Icons: Emile Gumbs, Albert Hughes, Iwandai I, David Hodge Just Thinking About: Scilly Cay Kudos: AXA’s Hot Awards; Joann Phillip, 50th Anniversary AXA Life Bartender Winner Lets Shop: Zemi Boutique Miss Universe: Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers 2017 Miss Anguilla Competes Music: Infusion XL by Quinson Gumbs My Miss Anguilla Experience by Carencia Rouse Noteworthy: Pleased To Meat You Out & About Pioneers: Clive Carty, Aunty B Poetry: 2018 Malliouhana Poetry Competition Winners Quick Tips: Who Mosquitos Like Best; All Natural DIY Bug Sprays Restaurants Summer Festival 2019; Sands & Salts Tourism: Transforming The Anguilla Experience Underwater: Scuba Is Special by Joanie Howard Useful Numbers Visitors View: 24 And Look Forward To More by Kate & Jim Smailer Villas: Invest In A Place You Love What’s New: Tranquility Wrapped In Brew; Vaughn Anslyn Murals Xcursions Yesteryear: 50th Anniversary History Anguilla A - Z

4 6 7 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 45 47 48 50

Anguilla Life Magazine, POB 1622, Anguilla, BWI. Tel: 264-772-8377 or Apt. 17A, 20 Fifth Ave, NYC 10011, NY. Tel: 646-590-0623 E-mail: kedivar@aol.com or kedivar@gmail.com Online: Subscriptions are available from the New York address: One Year (3 issues) US $20; EC $54; UK £14.

Checks or Money Orders should be made payable to Claire E. Devener for Anguilla Life Magazine.

ANGUILLA LIFE© declines all responsibility on the content of text and advertisements submitted to them. Copyright 1988 East Caribbean Publishing Company. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission from the Publisher and due acknowledgement to each source. Printed by Cherry Lane, Plainview, New York Publisher and Editor-in-Chief: Claire E. Devener Art Director: Irene Rozane Raices Cover Photo::Roxxy Webster, Anguilla Calypso Monarch 2016 & 2017/ Leeward Island Winner 2016 and, First Runner Up 2017.

by Rocklyn Maynard,Professional Photos Contributors to this issue: Vaughn Anslyn; The Anguillian; Anguilla Experience; Terry Brady; Lauralynn Brickhouse; Andy Brown; Rita Celestine Carty; Jackie Cestero; Rhonica Connor; Suzie Donahue; Quinson Gumbs; Jan Hein; Ivor Hodge; Joanie Howard; Josveek Huligar; Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers; Fabiana Liburd; Rocklyn Maynard; Joann Phillip; Claushawn Richardson; Carencia Rouse; Jacquie Ruan; Alexis Ryan; Kate & Jim Smailer; Diane Smith; Sandra Wallace; Jill Walker and Roxxy Webster

anguilla life, page 4

In Celebration of AARF.... Did You Know by Suzie Donahue 2019 marks the 18th anniversary of the Anguilla Animal Rescue Foundation! Organized in March of 2000, AARF became a Friendly Society in 2001. The non-profit, all volunteer, dog and cat rescue organization receives no government funding and depends solely on donations from supporters who wish to help the dogs and cats of Anguilla. The AARF Shelter opened in 2008 and continues to operate with space donated at Morlens Veterinary Clinic by Dr. Patrick Vanterpool, owner of Anguilla s Country Veterinarian Clinic and AARF s first president. The Clinic and Shelter are currently managed by Dr. Garry Swanston, owner of St. Martin Veterinary Clinic, and his staff including Dr. Brian Murray.

Morlens well equipped surgery and treatment rooms.

AARF provides the financial support for the Shelter and assists with Each year funds through service prizes donated by supporting island businesses, Paws for a Cause, has the management, improvements and publicity for the shelter and the been able to assist with office screen installation, adoptions of the dogs and cats in our care. Students and AXA visitors electricity in the Shelter area and ceiling fans. are always welcome to come spend time petting and socializing Shelter AARF is thankful for the support of all who have guests from 10:30am-12:30pm and 3:45-5:15pm Monday to Wednespurchased tickets and donated past prizes. day and Friday; 10:30am-12:30pm on Thursday and Saturday.

Our Focus Spay & Neuter. Since 2003 when our first Spay/Neuter Clinic was held, AARF has continued to sponsor surgeries for adoptees, as well pet owners who need financial assistance with these expenses. Over 3,500 dogs and cats have had free surgeries in the past 16 years at a cost of well over US $220,000, all made possible by donations and fund raising events. For more information about this program call 4762731. Additionally AARF sponsored the first free vaccination clinic in October 2016 at Best Buy West and continued at other island villages.

This project was made possible thru a generous grant provided by the Besson Cooper Fund.

Education: AARF understands that the relationship between a person and their pet depends on sharing how best to take care of your dog, cat, puppy or kitten. In November Malin Granroth, an expert on human-dog interaction from Finland, did a 2 week education and dog training project, sponsored by an AARF supporter and managed by Johanna Pasila, AARF Education Chair.

On weekdays Malin visited local schools together with former and current AARF dogs that she had been working with and chosen for this purpose. She talked to a total of 23 classes in the primary schools and kindergartens about the benefits of animal care and the positive relationship between owner and pet. Together with 6 month old AARF puppy Twister, she also visited the students at the Blossom Centre and the D.O.V.E. 2 centre. On weekends both private and group dog training classes were offered to Anguillian dogs and owners. The dog training was free and focused on the relationship between the dog and its owner, providing tools to train on one s own and work towards desired goals. This pilot project was the first of its kind and a huge success with a total of more than 30 dogs participating and we hope to have Malin return in the Fall of 2019.

Where do adoptees come from? AARF accepts unwanted dogs, cats, puppies and kittens at no charge from owners or kind people that find them abandoned and finds good homes for them both locally and internationally. The adoption program at AARF is $25 for dogs/puppies and $20 for cats/kittens, includes a vet exam, first vaccination, deworming and $10 off the second and third vaccinations and a required spay or neuter at 6 months has proven to be a success.

How does AARF pay the expenses of the Shelter, Spay/Neuter Month and Free Vaccination Clinics? Our partnership and sharing of space with Morlens gives AARF a unique opportunity to have continual veterinary care for the surrenders that come to the shelter. The expenses of running the Shelter and treating the guests is approximately $55,000 US per year. That along with the other services we offer to help the animals in need including free spay/neuter services and vaccination clinics are all possible because of the generosity of our supporters, a majority who are regular Anguilla visitors who wish to help.

Happy Hour! Mandy, Roy, Claire and Patrick, longtime AARF supporters, have continued our Raffle at Roy s Bayside in Sandy Ground in season at their Friday Happy Hour. Each week, AARF volunteers reach out to visitors and regulars spreading the word and sell $1 raffle tickets for small donated prizes including massages, liquor, and gift certificates. All proceeds from this event, managed by AARF s Carol Gilbert, support the Shelter.

Where is the Shelter? Located at Morlens Veterinary Clinic, this has seen many improvements in service and veterinary care in the past few years. Morlens now has two practicing vets guaranteeing always someone available in case of emergencies.

The Shelter now has an outside walkway for visitors thus elimPaws For A Cause proceeds provided a large cat inating the former walk thru clinic treatment rooms. enclosure and this puppy play area with plenty of shade and toys to give some much enjoyed outside time.

anguilla life, page 5

Alycia and Alex ready to transport Fiona and Fred Another revenue source is AARFÂ’s thrift store Second Chances, a welcomed success. Opened in July 2014, many loyal customers and lots of generous people donate gently used items. Irma blew off its roof and a majority of the contents of the store were lost but the space, Long Path Road at The Big Store, is now filled with lots of merchandise and great bargains. AARF volunteers staff on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 9am-noon. Call 476-2731 for more information.

Please come and visit!

The lovely white kitten Pandora already looks happy with her new family.

Suzie shows off another adoptable cute face. Andrew is a believer that black kittys and puppies represent good luck and we plan to elaborate on this in a coming issue.

Then on Sept 6, 2017 many things changed in Anguilla with the arrival of Irma, the worst hurricane recorded in Caribbean history. Our Shelter was close to capacity with 18 puppies and kittens. They were uninjured but the upper story of the building suffered severe roof damage, flooded floors and water. Dr. Niquet Goldson, Ranou, Casleen & AARF Rep, Rhaine, spent days cleaning and caring for those guests...not easy without electricity, running water plus dealing with their own home damages. Once again AARF supporters quickly, sent in generous donations to enable the purchase of a much needed generator so we no longer have to deal with future power outages and the resulting issues.

On October 4, World Animal Day, through the assistance of St. Martin Veterinary Clinic, Dekha & Dr. Garry Swanston, our 18 guests were airlifted to St. Martin. Met by reps of US based Animal Rescue League, and with approximately 175 other dogs, cats, puppies & kittens from SXM & Statia, were flown to US shelters where forever homes were found. After all the sadness and devastation from Hurricane Irma, this joint effort by so many people was a gift that we at AARF will never be able to repay.

About a month after the airlift the much needed generator arrived and was installed. A few days later power to Sandy Hill was restored and AARF was once again up and running, able to restart our free spay/neuter program and other projects to help the dogs and cats of Anguilla.

AARF is grateful to all present and past board members and so many other volunteers who have worked so hard to improve the quality of life for the dogs and cats here. To the many who continually support us with large or small donations and participation in our fund-raising event, to The Anguillian for continuing to provide weekly space, and to Anguilla Life, who has always been there to get out the positive word about our organization we say THANK YOU! When AARF first began the reports from our visitors of dogs wandering around and lost or abandoned puppies or kittens were frequent and spay/ neuter were unheard of. We certainly recognize there is always more to be done, but from the many positive comments we hear AARF is making a difference! In the past 18 years, volunteers have spent many hours, some heartbreaking & some filled with much joy, trying to improve through care and education the lives of dogs and cats on Anguilla. We are extremely grateful to all of those that have contributed in some way to make this possible.

For more information about adopting, volunteering or supporting AARFÂ’s programs check www.aarf.ai or email at aarfinfo@aarf.ai or call 476-2731.

Suzie Donahue is an AARF Trustee, and over the past 18 years has served as president, vice president, secretary, communications chair and the manager of the AARF Shelter.

She has served as the project coordinator of the Spay/Neuter Program since the first free clinic in 2003. Suzie also maintains three feral cat colonies in the West End. She and her husband Steve retired here in 2001 from Ellicott City MD and have two dogs and several cats!

anguilla life, page 6

Boatracing Calendar 2019 Sat April 20 Festival Del Mar B Class Island Harbour Sun April 21 Elliott Webster Easter Sunday A Class Sandy Ground to Island Harbour April 22 Easter Monday A Class Sandy Ground to Sandy Hill & back May 26 Pre Anguilla Day A Class Sandy Ground May 30 Sir Emile Gumbs Anguilla Day Around the Island A Class June 10 Whit Monday A Class Sandy Ground June 16 West Fest A Class Meads Bay June 17 Queen s Birthday A Class Sandy Ground Sun July 14 Bastille Day B Class Marigot, SXM Sun July 21 SXM Fete Sun July 29

B Class Grand Case, SXM

Peter Perkins A Class Sandy Ground

Sun Aug 4 Warm Up A & B Class Sandy Ground Aug 5 August Monday A&B Class Sandy Ground Aug 6 August Tuesday A Class Sandy Ground to Island Harbour Aug 7 August Wednesday A Class Sandy Ground to Blowing Point & Back August 8 ATB August Thursday A & B Class Meads Bay Sun August 11 Champ of Champs A & B Class Sandy Ground

Beaches THE SEASIDE SCENE

Choose your favorite beach from Anguilla’s 45 bays and cays.

(Those in italics are designated protected beaches) Atlantic Side Captain s Bay Island Harbour Scilly Cay Upper Shoal Bay Lower Shoal Bay Blackgarden Bay Limestone Bay Little Bay Crocus Bay Katouche Bay Benzies Bay Road Bay/Sandy Ground Sandy Island Prickly Pear Cays Long Bay Mead s Bay Barnes Bay Sherricks Bay West End Bay

Dog Island Great Bay Bailey s Cove Spring Bay Savannah Bay Scrub Island Scrub Bay Deadman s Bay

Caribbean Side Anguillita Island Shoal Bay West Maunday s Bay Cove Bay Merrywing Bay Rendezvous Bay Blowing Point Lockrum Bay Little Harbour Corito Bay Forest Bay Conkpool Bay Long Pond Bay Sandy Hill Bay Sea Feathers Bay Mimi s Bay Sile Bay Savannah Bay Junk s Hole Bay Windward Point

anguilla life, page 7

boat racing

The Oft Overlooked B Class Race Boats.....

A TrueAnguillian Experience!

by Jackie Cestero

If you know the Anguillan people, they aren t big on conversation. When you ask them how they are reasonable is the most likely response. However, when the conversation turns to boat racing, the tall tales begin, the excitement is heard and the volume gets louder. It is in these moments that you learn the true heart and soul of Anguilla s National Sport.

Anguilla Boat Racing has its origins steeped in a long history of economic survival that involved travel to neighboring islands for work. This story has been well documented in a number of publications. Today I share the story of the people who carry on the racing traditions of their forefathers and pass it on to their children and grandchildren.

The much anticipated Boat Race Season kicks off each Spring with a series of races that culminate in Anguilla s August Summer Festival or Carnival. Weather permitting, races happen two to three times a month from March to July. With excitement, racing crew and fans then welcome the 10 days of August where boat racing becomes almost a daily occurrence. The focus is to reach the final Sunday of Carnival and The Champion of Champions race or, Champ of Champs , as the sailors call it. Boats that place in the top 5 positions in races during Carnival week, along with the previous year s winner, compete in this coveted event. The winner of Champ of Champs earns bragging rights for the entire off season. More recently, a point system for each competition has been created, opening the way for a new title - Boat of the Year. With two coveted titles to attain, it is unclear which holds more status.

You can be sure the winners display both trophies with pride, and are sure to remind fellow boat captains at every opportunity.

Boats are handcrafted in one of the many island villages, and diehard supporters are generally comprised of family and friends of the crew and residents of that village. Frequent Anguilla visitors often join the rivalry to support their boat on race days. In some cases, sponsoring their favorite boat with much needed funds to keep these expensive craft afloat. A very lucky few get the opportunity to crew on these one-of-a-kind vessels. This occasion comes with its own bragging rights. On race days, boats that get the most enthusiasm are A Class with familiar names like: Satellite, Real Deal, Sonic, UFO, Wasp, Eagle, Miss Anguilla, Light and Peace, Viking, and De Tree, to name a few. These 28 foot vessels are the public face of Anguilla s National Sport.

However, there is another group that competes throughout the season that are largely overlooked. They are the B Class boats!

At 23 feet in length, B Class boats require a smaller crew of just 7 to 11 sailors, and are much easier to rig and race than their A Class counterparts. The size of the hull and accompanying sails, make them agile and able to perform in almost any kind of weather. In the words of De Storm s owner and Captain, Gerard Smith, we don t worry about a little wind or rain we sail through anything!

These boats generally compete just hours before the A Class races but have a much smaller following. This significant lack of support makes one wonder why these men and women continue to sail and carry on the sport. To find the answer, one must go to the source the Owners, Captains and Crews themselves.

The hub of activity of B Class boat racing has arguably become Island Harbour. There you will find long time sailor and carpenter, Oris Smith. Oris is the Chairman of the Captain s Committee of the Anguilla Boat Racing Association, as well as the owner and Captain of the B Class F5 Tornado and the A Class Eagle. Born in Anguilla, Oris lived and went to school in St. Thomas as a young child. He and his mother often travelled by cargo boat between St. Thomas and Anguilla. At the age of 15, his mother decided to return the family to Anguilla. According to Oris, in those days there wasn t much to keep children busy after school. They played marbles, cricket and a little bit of soccer. To stay out of trouble and find an activity he enjoyed, Oris began building and racing Pond or Model boats, refining his light carpentry skills.

In 1989, after mastering Model boats, he graduated to building 15 foot boats that would carry crew. Most notable were: Blaze, Hurricane, Scorpion, Top Gun and Torture. According to Oris eventually we put more sail on the boats and did our training on them.

Sailing skills were learned as they crewed for the elder captains, but they never had a chance to man the tiller. The 15 foot C Class boats provided an opportunity for these young men to one day become captains themselves. Oris admits to sinking a few boats along the way, but that s all part of the learning process.

Eventually the 15 footers were replaced by the 23 foot B Class of today. Oris developed the current standard for B Class boats using the existing length of 23 feet, and 8 foot 6 inches on the beam. The boat can be any shape or depth as long as it conforms to those aforementioned limits. There are also specific dimensions for the sails, and absolutely no high tech materials, such as Kevlar, are allowed. These specifications are required to keep the cost within the scope of the sport. Despite these strict standards, the cost of building a fully rigged B Class boat is approximately US$30,000 - a cost that is out of the reach of many. Seeing the need, Oris stepped up to support young people in the sport.

Gerard Smith shares his perspective while sipping his favorite Captain Morgan rum: Oris started a lot of the young guys in Island Harbour with race boats. He gave me De Storm that was originally the Tornado, and some guys sunk it. It was a gift and I fixed it up by his shop and I started out from there. Then he gave

anguilla life, page 8 the Sandy Hill guys another Tornado, now the Legal Rights. It turns out Oris has given away several Tornados over the years.

Gerard actually cut the old 15 footer in half, added 8 feet in the middle to achieve the desired 23 feet needed to compete in the B Class. After 10 years of use and a bit of remodeling, De Storm is a perennial favourite to win one of the three top spots.

Late in 2015, a newcomer arrived on the B Class scene by the name of Dark Shadows. Captained by Lorenzo Gadget Harrigan, Shadows was built over a 3 year period by Oris. This boat seemed to outshine the favorites in the 2015 August Thursday race as well as the Champions competition. It made its mark and stirred a lot of controversy among captains. Playing out heavily on social media, those not in the loop, might have thought it would come to blows. In the end, it was all a bit of hype that culminated in drinks all around. None-the-less Gadget admits, Oris builds fast boats and he can t help it once he is doing something for you, he does it from his heart! Even with all the excitement, 2016 and 2017 were not the years for Dark Shadows.

F5 Tornado won 2016 and Kedro s Pride were the 2016 and 2017 Champion of Champions. De Storm was named triple crown 2016, 2017 and 2018 Boat of the Year.

So what makes Oris give away his old boats and provide work space to these young would-be Captains? He says he does it because he doesn t like seeing young people sitting around and wants them to move on in the sport, even if it means that they beat him from time to time. Speaking about Oris, Gerard says we love him and respect him, but once it comes to a race, it is a different story. Regardless of who wins, we are cool and have a good time after it s just a lot of fun!

Looking at the B Class crews, you ll notice a lot of very young faces. Here fathers raise their sons to aspire to be captains themselves. Oris sons when at school in the USA, returned each August to boat race with their dad. And don t think the ladies are left out either, his niece returns as well to crew right along with the family. At the end of a B Class race, some sailors rush to their A Class boat where they crew and continue to learn from captains of the flagship class.

But what do we know of their West End counterparts... B52 (previously No Big Ting), Upsetter, Stay Up and Kedro s Pride?

Much like the Island Harbour group, it is a family business. Vernon Richardson, owner and one time Captain of Alma Gloria, appears the patriarch of the West End dynasty. Like many others he learned his skills from his grandfather, and the Alma Gloria was given to him to carry on the tradition. Bow , as they call him, started sailing when he was just 10 years old. Today the demands of work do not allow him to Captain, so he leaves that post to other members of the family, cheers them on and continues to support the ongoing maintenance costs for the vessel. Depending on the season, annual repairs and rigging replacement costs that ensure the safety of the crew can be in the thousands of dollars well beyond any prize money a boat may hope to attain.

Roy Richardson owns Stay Up, which often gives Island Harbour s crowd a run for their money. Stay Up was given to him by his father Vernon, who traditionally follows most races in his chase boat cheering on the team. Meanwhile, Roy s son, attending college in the United States, is a graduate of the Anguilla Sailing Academy and sails competitively at his University. Roy made a promise to his son he would build him his own B Class boat. Work was underway to present that promise named Destroyer.

In the words of Roy s wife Ruth, we hope he ll return to become the Manager of the Stay Up team and carry on the family tradition. Roy promises that Stay Up is the boat to beat!

Hurricane captain, Tomi Webster, summed up what boat racing means to Anguillians: to explain or give you an exact reason as to why it is so competitive and so rich in our blood, I can t find the words to say - but it is a part of us. Many of us know how it feels to have something that means so much that can not be put into words, Anguillian Boat Race is that something.

Maintaining the B Class does not come without its challenges, notes Atrene Pemberton, Chair of The Anguilla Boat Racing Association. B Class does not have the big name sponsorship available to the more popular A Class races. They rely on booth fees at the big races to provide cash prizes.

The committee is looking at more creative funding options that take advantage of the flexibility of the B Class boats. One idea is to build on a unique initiative started by Parliamentary Secretary Cardigan Connor and Cap Juluca. Each December, B Class boats raced from Maundays Bay providing guests the opportunity to support their favorite boat and even become a crew member. Belmond Cap Juluca this February organized 2 Presidents Day races (Dark Shadows won on Saturday, F5 on Sunday) to raise funds for the B Class and encourage these young men to continue their passion.

Join the excitement of B Class boat racing De Storm 2018 Champ of Champs from the shore, a chase boat, or become a crew member for a day. As Oris puts it... It is a unique adventure that is a true Anguillian experience!

Boat race fan Jackie Cestero, the owner/director of Nature Explorers and Anguilla s Jammin , gives special thanks to B Class captains and crews for their time and input and Molly Nutting for her hard work and insights.

Kedro s Pride, 2017 Champion of Champions

anguilla life, page 9

Sonic 2018 Boat of the Year

Sonic Boom! is this fast favourite s fan winning cry and 2018 saw her place in the top 4 of every race participated in. Paul Romney commissioned Warfie Richardson and Raymond Edwards to build in 2007. Rebuilt in 2012, she began bringing home wins. Some history: Boat of the Year 2009/2014; Champ of Champs 2011/ 14; 2014 won Anguilla Day, Whit Monday, August Sunday; 2016 August Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday. Now owned by Jeff Carty, sponsored by Leviticus with Eddie Hughes at the helm.

Blue Bird 2017 Champ of Champs

Real Deal 2018 Champ of Champs &

An unexpected strong back wind 2 miles off shore while tacking sank Real Deal the day before 2017 Anguillla Day race.

Alwyn Captain Charlie Richardson, his brother and even a Satellite crewman on the team, worked until 4:30am to bring up/bail/ repair. They amazingly set sail and brought home the big 2017 trophy, proudly displayed here with Forward Man, Darien Baptiste. The North Hill champ went on to win August Sunday and be named Boat of the Year. In 2018 there was actually another sinking off Black Garden but she featured one win, 3x placed 2nd; Champ of Champs Just followed. started 2019 season, she took Johnno s pre Easter race and Easter Monday. (photos by Tarik Prentice, Anguilla Experience and Andy Brown)

2017 Boat of The Year

Satellite 2016 Boat of the Year &

Champ of Champs Blue Bird came back 2017 August Tuesday/Champ of Champs wins after several years of weak contending. Built by Egbert Connor, refined in 1992 as the fastest Blue Bird yet by David Hodge.

Captained by 20 year veteran Quart Carty, she starred in the 1990 s.

After collisions, rudder loss and other mishaps, first season to not place was August 1998. Devon Beggar Daniels stripped her down in 1999; she won 2001 Aug Monday/Thursday. Most recent was 2018 3rd on August Tuesday and at West Fest, 2nd August Thursday.

(Ivor Hodge photo)

Captain Carlo Gumbs and his North Hill crew of all ages won 3 of the 5 Summer Festival 2016 races. A bit of history... 2000 Round the Island Anguilla Day winner, 2001 Boat of The Year and 2009 Champion of Champions. Just over 20 crew members, key positions Forward Man- Packer Lloyd; Jib Man- Smokey Richardson; Tuck Man-Zachary Richardson. Carlo was about 16 years old when he started sailing with the Dragon, Satellite before its mid 90 s name change. I feel proud to be the Captain of this community boat. We love to give and get support from our North Hill people, but we have supporters all over Anguilla and our crew loves to make them all happy by winning. We will try our best to repeat that. (Lauralyn Brickhouse photo)

AnguillaLife_Ad 2018.pdf

1

3/13/18

2:54 PM

Beach Living...

Your Anguilla...

Your Home...

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Contemporary Condos on Meads Bay in the exclusive West End Beach walk away from World-Class 5 Star Resorts and Award Winning Restaurants Fully Furnished Professionally Managed

Designed and Developed by

Developers of the Global Award Winning The Beach House, Meads Bay

Tel 1-264-235-3666/235-7667/497-3666

www.tranquilitybeachanguilla.com

books A Review by Rita Celestine Carty

Blue Beans is the first novel by renowned Anguillian poet, songwriter, playwright Patricia J. Adams. In 25 Chapters and 244 Pages of remarkable work, Adams chronicles the upbringing of Geoffrey Nehemiah Gumbs. He earns the moniker Jeff Lark not only because it s simpler and more appropriate to a growing boy, but also because he has the gift of song.

The first 3 Chapters are narrated by the main character s Aunt Jessy, to introduce the story since Jeff is too young at that plot point . She retires after Chapter 3 and Jeff takes over and can now sound his voice . That he does, expressing his talent for song as well as for storytelling . He tells us every story he can think of and takes us on an edifying journey of his own life story as well as that of his community and homeland Anguilla.

What characterizes Jeff Lark most is a naiveté that he never loses as well as his undeniable loyalty to his single parent Pappy, whose every word is heard and stored by Jeff.

Raised by an Anguillian grandmother, herself raised by an Anguillian grandmother, this reviewer knows that Jeff s storing of Pappy s words are not so much the result of conscious effort, but a reflection that these words must have been repeated a gazillion times. Pappy certainly played the role of Father and Mother to the hilt.

The author takes Jeff (and us via his eyes) through all the complications and peripeteia appropriate to a mid 20th Century Anguillian existence. Being poor, scorned, falling into prickly bushes, being scared by snakes and stung by wasps, staying back in school, being forbidden to play with friends, questionable parentage at least on the father s side. Every image of childhood and of the original Anguilla is here. Jeff s story fully entertains us at the same time that it instructs us. Indeed, the plot is carefully crafted to expose all the customs and mores of life in Anguilla at that time. The narrative is gripping at times and even if it also slows down a bit at points. stilled by the ruminations of Jeff, we can simply accept that that s how a childhood used to be lengthy. The story line doesn t suffer though and at the resolution the author has the protagonist literally dangling between the devil and the deep blue sea.

Make no mistake. Blue Beans is not written in the pastoral genre with Anguillian shepherds, flocks and moonlit nights of socializing after jollification. Certes there is undeniable loyalty of father to son, strong family and community ties. But even that s

anguilla life, page 11 painfully shifted to reveal childbearing s deep wounds and woes under most difficult conditions in the most difficult context.

Entertaining and instructive, Blue Beans will forever be remembered as written exclusively in Anguillian dialect. Not as the norm, sprinkled with local phrases but fully presented in what can only be described as a nation language amazingly authentic and easy to read. Nothing contrived in the choice of language variety; no gyrations to make it accessible to a non-local audience; not even a Glossary. It is true, sincere and direct just like Jeff is. The so natural language belies the fact that Adams has achieved a feat without precedent! Indeed, this must be the greatest act of patriotism to give a people their story in their own twangue . It is truly liberating and the true value of this pioneering work may not be fully realized for much time to come.

The intriguing title is another notable aspect. Not a part of the folkloric Anguillian memory of this reviewer nor of several others surveyed, it certainly works to convey the unraveling of the unfathomable mysteries of life. It serves to show that Anguilla needs to continue to hear Pappy s voice. And who knew that Anguilla had a voice that would sound so beautiful in print. Yes, we need to hear Pappy s voice and thanks to Teacher Patsy, we can now read it too. What a blessing! What a treasure is Blue Beans!

ALHCS Teacher Rita Celestine Carty has a BA (Hons) in French and English from Cave Hill University of the W. Indies and a French Caribbean Literature Masters from Martinique s l Université des Antilles- Guyane.

James Freddie Hughes, A Man for All Seasons by Terry Brady

Technically, this is not an independent book review of the autobiography of an Anguillian gentleman of remark, because I know and admire Freddie unabashedly. However, my advice is to buy the book. Read the book. Buy a second copy of the book, and give it to your favorite relative or best friend. Freddie s story (as told to Reverend, Dr. Wycherley Gumbs, collaborator, editor and publisher) is a tale of multiple complexities, beginning circa 1930 and continues up until today. The story is told through Freddie s context and family, set obviously in the West Indies and Anguilla. One opinion not expressly revealed in the writing (notwithstanding Freddie s humble beginnings) was the idea of lucky Freddie . However, readers will certainly fathom that he was born of rare and substantial stock, had a good head, much support and was as lucky as someone with a flock of guardian angels, ducking death and defying peril. But, Freddie was also lucky and enjoyed great standing everywhere, because he was smart, glib, handsome, of grand stature and occasionally adorable when it mattered most. He courted and married the indomitable, incomparable Teacher Dorothy, perhaps his luckiest turn of good fortune. Dr. Gumbs was perhaps too gentle in regard to the indisputable fact (without actually saying it), that a cargo boatman especially in those years had to be part scalawag, part charming pirate, and part rum-running seaman with a fid, marlinspike and sextant in their ditty bag. Freddie could box a compass and shoot the sun at midday while manning the helm in foul weather. As any able-bodied seaman will explain, luck could only take you so far while commanding a cargo ship heading to a distant Caribbean seaport. Yet, the finely crafted story ultimately laid-out by Dr. Gumbs is not a tall-tell, but rather the gripping circumstance of Anguilla as reported in Freddie s firsthand and amazingly photographic memory, contrasted by contemporary musings and moral conundrums facing Anguilla today. Freddie s story will surely enrich the life and understanding of everything Anguilla for any reader who enjoys the fabric and texture of humanity and rich culture.

This is a book for all seasons, US$20 at Hughes Medical Centre, Paradise Cove and AXA Drug Store. ( from The Anguillian May 2017) Terry

Brady is a retired health care technology executive, inventor and Anguilla resident since 2005. Observing local fishermen struggling with fish baits for their spiny lobster, he invented synthetic OrganoBait , a neutral alternative primary bait for commercial lobster/crab traps.

Partnering with a prior industry colleague, they founded an academically inspired start-up, Kepley BioSystems, to focus on a scientific approach to avert consuming 18 million tons of forage fish. Awarded grants to map and study Anguilla s waters in his own designated research vessel and to further use of this alternative to reduce the consumption of billions of pounds of wild fish stock used in worldwide commercial traps which are also the sole food source for many other fish, mammals, and birds, used in agricultural additives; pig, chicken and pet food; aquaculture and Omega 3 vitamin supplements.

anguilla life, page 12

Calypso Reigns

Springer s crowns include 1991, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2008, 2018 Senior Monarch; 1998, 2008 Leeward; NBA Rumble 2001, 2002, 2003; Festival de Noel 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2005 AXA Day. (Ivor Hodge archives)

Johnny Springer Lloyd s two songs (My Land and Blows) co written with his brother Jimmy, won him his first Calypso Crown in the 1985 Junior competition. Growing up with 6 musicians in his family, he finally learned the Bass guitar then on to the Rhythm guitar. He played, sang lead vocals with his high school band and formed The Black Brethren band in 1986.

He played Bass and did back-up vocals with Bankie Banx New Generations and background and lead vocals with The Mussingtons. In 1991 he struck out on his own winning the Senior Calypso competition and releasing his debut album The Storm Inside Me. Writing music since a teenager, Johnny has composed over 70 songs so far. His 4 albums featuring various genres of music from Calypso, Soca and Zouk to Reggae, Soul and Meringue, not only assure his ability to perform but his talent for Introspection & Who s Going To Save writing and translating compositions into different rhythms Our Region were Springer s winning and tempos. songs for his 2018 crown. (Photo AXA Lloyd has performed in Anguilla, St Maarten, New York Summer Festival). and San Diego, Calfornia. His terrific presence and self confidence tend to own the stage and the audience.

Off stage he is a well mannered, soft spoken man of quiet dignity with a kind word for everyone and a smile radiating sincerity. His romantic sweetness shines forth and draws people closer to him despite his titles, accolades and accomplishments. This is a very sensitive songwriter that makes everyone stop and really listen.

Springer s latest is his song, Amaze Me on Anguillia (now living in Columbus, Ohio) Bling Breezy s new album, Insomnia, released in mid-March. He is featured at Bankie Banx Dune at 1:30 pm on Sundays plus events at hotels, villas, wedding and dinner parties. Email for info: mightyspringer68@gmail.com.

ur cover girl Roxanne Webster first performed at the tender age of 10, as Lil Roxxy in Anguilla s 2002 Jr. Monarch competition. Fascinated by singing, mimicking artists and her Calypsonian sisters Rebecca and Rolanda, she early followed those footsteps. Born in St. Martin, her Mom s birthplace, eventually migrating to Anguilla, she attended school and lived grounded around music and music people. Learning a lot through experience, teachings and mentoring from my team and fans, I grew from a shy young Calypsonian into a young woman who can command the stage and audience. With so many talented people in this industry, I aim to stay focused, dedicated and determined to make it to the top pleasing my support team and fans each and every time.

This Junior Calypsonian start aided my skills and helped overcome stage fear. When I started singing, it wasn t an easy task. I was extremely nervous for my FIRST ever performance. I wasn t successful but that didn t deter me, a 360 degree improvement pushed me on to win St Maarten s Jr. Calypso crown.

To be Anguilla s National Calypso Monarch (2016/17, 1st runner up 2018) was always a dream. I m still in disbelief. I didn t expect to win at such a young age. I have confidence but people believing in me and what I do gives an extra push, drives me to strive to succeed, continue the legacy and encourage youngsters to boldly display their talents and voices of their Country. I adore my fans love it when they ask, Hey Roxxy what next? or Roxxy you should sing a song about .. They look forward to more and inspire me by their input, feedback and critique.

ANGLEC s sponsorship of the Anguilla National Calypso (ANCA) has developed local exposure, listenership and general appreciation towards the art form. Roxxy the voice of the people during various Festival Calypso tents, enhanced the overall show. Calypso has made me who I am today and given me the chance to be creative, distinct, confident and strong.

With consistent years of top support, The beginning of a lot of Roxanne s journeys, she always loves and appreciates and she parents Roland and Louise are thrilled is happy to be part of a new Calypsonian generation. Her plans include a drive and uplifting with Roxxy s reign and goal achievements. of social ills and assist in the overall development of Anguilla s youth and culture as well as pushing hard to defend her titles. Always excited to perform, promote and represent Anguilla at regional and international music festivals, she brought home 2nd Runner-Up from the 2016 Regional Female Calypso Monarch Competition in Monserrat. Not only Calypso but Soca too, which Roxxy really got into as lead singer for ABC Band in 2011. International Soca Awards nomination for 2012 Best New Female Soca Artist and her video for her hit single Delete , tied with Machel Montano s Vibes Cyah Done for Best New Music video.

Roxxy expresses gratitude to everyone who believed in and supported her over the years giving positive criticism, tips and words of advice mentor, writer and coach from age 10, Andrew Baker Jr Richardson; Haydn Hughes, who co- wrote, assisted and supported a lot of my dreams; Funk Gumbs and Neville James of St.Maarten, my primary choices for Calypso arrangements; Shelly, my best friend and strongest supporter; DIGICEL my employer, for the time to prepare as well as being an active support team. My colleagues are indeed extraordinary. And the Webstarz ...Rudy, Ray-J , Rahiem, Rolanda and Rebecca, although very competitive siblings, we are always there to support each other no matter what. I love them all for that!

O

community

ROTARY... A Lifeline for Anguilla by Jacquie Ruan

ear the ambulance sirens screaming down the road? Well, have a little more comfort as Medics no longer need to call people from their beds or work, looking for blood type needed. The Rotary Club District 7020 of Anguilla raised US$100,000 enabling our very own Blood Bank.

Unbelievably generous Sponsors like the late .Albert Lake who gave half an acre of land to raffle. Club members worked hard selling tickets, and they were blessed by amazing financial gifts from real friends of Anguilla, who prefer to remain anonymous. About to get a 50% matching grant from another Rotarian club, this turned out could be used later for another project. We surely are indebted to all Sponsors and indeed the people of Anguilla who purchased tickets, the doctors, nurses and every donor who deserves recognition for giving blood to many total strangers, at all hours of the day or night. Our Blood Bank was handed over last February to the Princess Alexandra Hospital and training started in March. Many larger islands do not have a Blood Bank but tiny Anguilla has a high standard of importance and consideration for the people s welfare.

Rotary Anguilla was organized in June 1978 under the St. Maarten chapter s sponsorship. Seeking to promote Service Above Self while bettering life for Anguillians, very involved in local schools and improving health care since its inception. From installing public primary school playgrounds to distributing dictionaries to 1st and 2nd graders at government and private schools, the Club has demonstrated an island youth commitment. Rotary also supports KATS (Kids at Sea) sending youngsters to Tortola, BVI s water sports programme.

The Anguilla Club has sent two senior students each year to Wisconsin for World Affairs, who come back bustling with high energy and reports of what an amazing experience it was for them. Last year Jasmine Ruan, Prickly Pear family and Louise Fayet (Lulu) of Le Bon Pain travelled and were both Interactors and truly great ambassadors for Anguilla. Jasmine is now President of Anguilla Youth Council, another wonderful achievement.

Vivien Vanterpool Primary Island Harbor boasts a team of early actors. One V.P., 9-year-old Andre Samuel, at a Club meeting, was extremely well conducted presenting plastic bottle tops his school collected to fund the children s cancer research drive. St. Martin is also involved, so they will be sent to Paris for recycling. A potential Rotarian President right there when we look at Andre!

Six Rotarian Lady Presidents were celebrated and honoured for breaking the male only club tradition at the Foundation s 2017 dinner. Anguilla s first female President, Judith Anne Sadler Bryan was also the Caribbean s very first; then Caroline Neuss Miranda Gavin; lawyer Yvette Wallace; Genefa Fedee, who so pushed Blood Bank fund-raising, Anne Edwards, with many years of educational profession as mentor and protector for so many youths and Her Ladyship Justice now in Dominica, Birnie Stephenson. set Rotary Anguilla in a positive light. But we still hold our Rotarian males in high esteem. They opened their arms to recognize around the world the value of including females in their Club and Anguilla most certainly stepped forward with big strides.

Rotarians continue their effort to eradicate the scourge of polio forever raising public awareness that only a little bit more is needed to wipe polio off the face of the earth. Our Club unveiled at the Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport, a unique monumental sculpture created under our part sponsorship of the First Anguilla Sculpture Symposium. Of course, such ambitious projects from the Blood Bank, to the war on polio, to supporting the W.I.S.E. (Workshop Initiative for Support in Education) program and others, large and small require the interest and participation of Anguilla s residents.

Rotarians make sure pupils are prepped and ready with the annual St. Martin Spelling Bee with exceptional results. Many efforts were pursued with children of special needs at DOVE and other schools, including delivering wheel chairs and special dietary needs. A wonderfully generous Sponsor writes an annual Valentine Day check to assure the children are fed daily. The Club gained a lot of material and cash assistance, coupled with labor, to build a house for a partially sighted young man.

Tears of joy were brought to many who watched. The little house is really cute and that young man is truly happy. The Club worked towards a Gazebo and sports for Vivien Vanterpool After devastating Hurricane Irma, School and the first Primary beautiful American friends Emily, Triathlon in Sandy Ground, Jim & Debs stepped up, immediately sponsored by Rotarians in forwarding US$100,000 to assist Braxton, Mass. The Police, Red restoration of our severely damaged Cross, GOA, sports fans and all 200 year old Ebenezer Methodist Church in The Valley. It has been a long haul with major reconstruction Rotarians were out making a completed but still awaiting windows, pews and bell repair. truly well done enormous fun

H

anguilla life, page 13 Sunday to become an annual event with senior students hopefully next year.

So much happiness to spread since 2017 s dreadful September storms. After jumping all over containers clearing, unloading and redistributing, Rotary pushed on with some very serious projects.

Peeling out a big thank you to our friends who once again came to our rescue. Last year the Blood Bank and in December, the biggest party for children ever put together. Rotary was asked by Jim how can we help and we put together a Rotary Christmas Fun Day for Anguilla s pre and primary schools. Many Santas gave all many presents along with bouncy castles, face painting, balloon blowing and a special appearance of Rotary s Anguillian Ambassador towards polio eradication, Omari Banks.

Over 2,000 children attended, parents then met them and each family received a turkey or ham donated again by Jim, Debs and a new Auntie Emily.

Still more work to do...

Rotary International will install an elevator for children of special needs where wheelchairs can have access to all classrooms.

The Ebenezer Pre School will be repaired, Spelling Bee will start up soon and Easter will be special. Students selected from our recently formed Interacters will once again be sent to World Affairs in Wisconsin. and so it goes on.....

We all try to abide by the 4 WAY TEST. Is it the truth?

Fair to all concerned? Build goodwill and better friendships?

Beneficial to all concerned? and Will it be Fun! Anguilla Rotary is a very multi-cultural group.

Check us out, be involved, stand by and be a special Sponsor. We have plenty more work to do!

Attend one of the Club s weekly meetings at 6pm on Thursdays at Roy s Bayside Grill in Sandy Ground, tel.497-2470. There you go Anguilla, Rotary Club District 7020 in full force working hard and producing results .join us, we all must try to make a difference! Cya there!

Jacquie Ruan is a past President of Rotary Anguilla.

anguilla life, page 14

diversions day & night (subject to change so do call first)

Monday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. Omalie 360 @ Maundays Club, 7-10pm. * CUISINART. 12th Avenue @ Kaz Bar, 7-10pm * E S OVEN. Daniel & Company, 7pm-close, 2nd & last Mon. of month. * FOUR SEASONS. Shea Shea, Sunset Lounge, 7-10pm. * QUINTESSANCE. $5 Martini Mondays, 5-8pm. * VEYA. Omari Banks, 7:30-9:30pm.

Tuesday

* CUISINART. Lobster BarBQ ($75) Omalie 360 @ Beach Bar, 7-10pm. * FOUR SEASONS. Aim, Sunset Lounge, 7-10pm. * THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR. DJ, 3pm... til. * ROY S. Trivia Night, 7pm. * VEYA. 12th Avenue 8-10pm.

Wednesday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. Beach BarBQ, Diversity-Darvin & Company, 7-10pm. * CUISINART. Mystic Vybz @ Kaz Bar, 7:30-10:30pm. * DAD S. Cyprus Roots, 8:30-midnight. * DUNE. Bankie Banx, 9:45pm... til. * ELVIS. DJ Sugar, 9-midnite. * FERRYBOAT. $1 Wings Night 6:30...close. * FOUR SEASONS. Shea Shea & Kevin, Sunset Lounge, 7-10pm. * MADEARIMAN. Decent Ones, 7:30-10pm. * OCEAN ECHO. Omari Banks, 7:30-9:30pm. * SKY LOUNGE. Live Music or DJ. 10:30pm... til. * STRAW HAT. Sprocka,7-10pm. * THE REEF. Daniel & Company @ The Yacht Club, 7:30-10:30pm. * VEYA. $5 per crayfish@dinner; Asher, 7:30-9:30pm. * ZEMI. Caribbean Beach BarBQ ($65), Boss, 6-9pm.

Thursday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. Omalie 360 @ Cip s, 7-10pm. * CUISINART. Aim @ Kaz Bar, 8-11pm. * DAD S. Darvin live Karaoke, 8:30pm-midnight. * ELVIS BEACH BAR. Musical Brothers, 9pm-midnite. * FOUR SEASONS. DJ Sugar, Sunset Lounge, 8-10pm. * GWEN S. Live music, 1:30-4pm. * LIME KEEL. Movie night, 7pm. * THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR. DJ, 3pm... til. * SAND BAR. 12th Avenue, 7:00pm. * SHARKY S. Daniel Connor, 7pm. * SKY LOUNGE. Live music or DJ. 10:30pm til * VEYA. Sprocka, 7:30-9:30pm.

Friday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. DJ Sugar @ Maunday s Club, 5:30 -9pm. * CUISINART. Roxxy @ Kaz Bar, 7:30pm-10pm. * DAD S. Soca Band, 9pm-2am. * DOLCE VITA. Darvin Mussington, 7:30-9:30pm. * DUNE PRESERVE. Bankie, 9pm til. * ELVIS BEACH BAR. DJ Kue, 9-midnite. * FERRYBOAT. $5 1/2 rib rack, fries, garlic bread. * FOUR SEASONS. Omalie 360, Sunset Lounge, 8-10pm. * LIME KEEL. Live music. * THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR. DJ, 3pm... til. * MADEARIMAN. Karaoke, 8-midnite. * OCEAN ECHO. Sprocka/Andy Goddard, 7-9:30pm. * PARADISE COVE. Sundowners finger food & DJ, 7:30pm til. * ROY S. Happy Hour with $15 entree specials, 5-7pm. * SKY LOUNGE. Live music or DJ. 10:30... til * VEYA. Aim, 7:30-9:30pm. * WAVES. The Decent Ones, 6-8pm.

BELMOND CAP JULUCA Maundays Bay, 497-6666.

CE BLUE Crocus Bay, 462-1000.

CUISINART R vous Bay, 498-2000.

DAD S Sandy Ground, 581-3237.

DA VIDA Crocus Bay, 498-5433.

DOLCE VITA Sandy Ground, 461-7333.

DUNE PRESERVE R vous Bay, 729-4215.

ELODIA S Shoal Bay, 497-3363.

ELVIS BEACH BAR Sandy Ground, 476-0101.

E S OVEN South Hill, 498-8258.

FERRYBOAT INN Blowing Point, 497-6623.

FOUR SEASONS Barnes Bay, 497-7000.

GWEN S Shoal Bay East, 497-2120.

HANK S Shoal Bay East, 497-3137.

JOHNNO S Sandy Ground, 497-2728.

LIME KEEL Island Harbour, 583-4613.

THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR West End, 235-6167.

MADEARIMAN Shoal Bay, 497-5750.

MALLIOUHANA Meads Bay, 497-6111.

NAT S PALM GROVE Savannah Bay, 235-6528.

OCEAN ECHO Meads Bay, 498-5454.

PARADISE COVE The Cove, 497-6603.

THE PLACE R vous Bay, 584-6501.

RED DRAGON South Hill, 497-2687.

THE REEF@CUISINART Merrywing Bay, 498-2000.

QUINTESSANCE Long Bay, 498-8106 ROY S Sandy Ground, 497-2470.

SANDBAR Sandy Ground, 498-0171.

SANDY ISLAND 476-6534.

SHARKY S West End, 729-0059 SKY LOUNGE Tomac Plaza, Water Swamp, 584-8255.

STRAW HAT Meads Bay, 497-8300.

SUNSHINE SHACK R vous Bay, 476-0649.

VEYA Sandy Ground, 498-8392.

WAVES Meads Bay, 729-3185.

ZEMI BEACH HOUSE Shoal Bay, 584-0001.

Saturday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. Janique @ Cip s, 7-10pm. * CUISINART. Daniel & Company @ Kaz Bar, 7:30-10:30pm. * DAD S. Live Local Band, 9pm-2am. * ELVIS BEACH BAR. DJ Q, 9:30pm- til. * FOUR SEASONS. Omalie 360, Sunset Lounge, 7-10pm. * GWEN S. Scratch Band, 1:30pm-close. * THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR. DJ (serving food), noon... til. * MADEARIMAN. Daniel Connor, 1-4pm. * MANOAH. BarBQ, Mystic Vybz, 1-4pm. * OCEAN ECHO. Cyprus Roots, 1:30-4:30pm. * QUINTESSANCE. Irina Kaufman-Brookes, 7-10pm. * ROYS. Aim, 7-10pm. * SHARPY S. Karaoke, 9pm. * SKY LOUNGE. Live music or DJ, 10:30... til * STRAW HAT. Sprocka,7-10pm. * SUNSHINE SHACK. Soca & Carnival, Chewawa & the BAHN. 1-4:30pm * THE PLACE. Musical Brothers, 1-4pm. * VEYA. 12th Avenue, 8-10pm.

Sunday

* BELMOND CAP JULUCA. Janique @ Maunday s, 7-10pm. * BREEZES@THE REEF. Boss & Horsepower Band, 6-9pm. * CUISINART. DJ Sugar @ Beachz Bar, 1-4pm.

Just Us Two @ Santorini, 7-10pm. * DAD S. DJ Sugar, 7-10pm. * DAVIDA BAYSIDE. Omari Banks, 1-4pm. * DUNE PRESERVE. Mighty Springer, 1:30pm-5pm. * ELODIAS. 264 String Band. 2pm-5pm. * FOUR SEASONS. Omalie 360, Brunch, Bamboo Bar & Grill 1-4pm; Shea Shea & Kevin, Sunset Lounge, 7-10pm. * GWEN S. Scratch Band, 1pm-close. * HANKS. Live music 1pm... til. * JOHNNO S. lunchtime jazz, 1-4pm. * THE LOUNGE SPORTS BAR. DJ (serving food), noon... til. * MADEARIMAN. Darvin Mussington, 7:30-9:30pm. * NAT S PALM GROVE. Natty in the House. * OCEAN ECHO. Mystic Vybz, 1-4pm. * ROY S. Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding, 11:30-3pm, Sprocka, 6-8pm. * SANDY ISLAND. DJ/Steel Pan, noon. * SKY LOUNGE. Live music or DJ, 10:30... til. * SUNSHINE SHACK. Sax & Reggae, Connis & Betty V, 1-4:30pm.

anguilla life, page 15

ecotourism

A Bird s Eye View: Anguilla s Chicks of Summer

by Jackie Cestero

The words chicks and summertime conjure up the idea of bikini clad women lounging on white sand with an umbrella, drink in their hand. With 33 spectacular beaches on Anguilla, it seems like an appropriate thought. However, I was thinking of chicks of another kind BIRDS of course! From late April to August, Anguilla becomes a virtual nursery as a number of species, both resident and visitor, begin to nest on our wetlands and offshore cays. In fact, approximately 45 different species of land, shore and seabirds nest here throughout the year to ensure the continuation of their species. It has become part of the cycle that I look forward to each year with great excitement.

Least Tern chick feed time The first sign of the season is the arrival of the Least Terns, the smallest of Anguilla s tern species. This feisty bird wastes no time finding their perfect spot on a patch of open sand spit, to make a nest.

With Long Pond IBA being one of the favored locations, the sand is quickly covered with adults creating nests and first year birds learning the ropes. The cacophony of sound that comes from these colonial nesters is music to my ears.

After years of observing this wetland, it seems as if the adults stake out the same nesting site each year and confirm that all the rocks and shells are exactly as they left them. I know this is highly unlikely, but it is hard not to attribute human qualities to these incredible birds that seem to be creatures of habit. Once the eggs are laid, they must be incubated for at least 3 weeks. That is 3 weeks in the brutal sun, day in and day out. Even a few minutes of leaving the egg without protection can mean the demise of the little being inside. It doesn t end there, the same is true for the first several hours after the chick is born as it is unable to regulate its body temperature, the parents must continue to keep them close for protection.

However, it is the strength of the colony that guarantees survival. Several times each day there is an invasion by other species like Laughing Gulls or American Kestrels in an opportune move to catch an unattended egg or chick. The entire group rises en masse to attack the interloper and guard the young.

Meanwhile on the ground, chicks scour the skies in search of the familiar sound of the parent returning with a live fish from the nearby waters. It never ceases to amaze me how they can pick out their parent s voice from all the seemingly similar calls above them. The chicks are rarely wrong and when the fish is presented, the excitement is palpable among the entire family.

At the same time, other species like Black-necked Stilts, Wilson s and Snowy Plovers, Killdeer, and Willets, just to name a few, are busily building their nests on the rocks and shores of Anguilla s wetlands. These birds face similar problems with protection of their young. In 2016 a further obstacle has been the prolonged drought which has caused low water levels and scarce plant life on the island s wetlands. Although the incubation period for shorebird species is similar to the terns, once hatched, these chicks are up and feeding on their own relatively quickly.

Anxious parents must work even harder to ensure their fragile babies stay safe. It is not uncommon to see chicks sheltered under their parents far from the original nest site and any encroachment from other species, or even the same species, is met with stern warnings to keep away.

By the end of August as suddenly as they arrived, the Least Terns are gone, leaving only the shallow impressions of their nests in the sand. Our resident species continue to watch their young mature but spend less and less time chasing off predators as they await the arrival of the returning Fall migrants.

All of these theatrics make bird watching in the summertime an amazing experience for even the most novice birder. A combination of easily accessible wetlands and an interesting variety of species, make Anguilla the choice for bird watching throughout the year. I feel lucky every day to be able to be outside and enjoy Anguilla s birdlife and to share all of these adorable chicks with residents and visitors to our beautiful island.

Kildeer chick

Avid birdwatcher, photographer and wildlife tour guide, Jackie Cestero is a volunteer for the ANT Monthly Bird Monitoring Program and served as Project Manager for the Dog Island Restoration Project. Her book, From Bananaquits to Boobies, A Photographic Gallery of the Wild Birds of Anguilla, is available in hard and soft cover at Limin and Sea Spray gift shops and Amazon.com; in IPad/IPod format from www.blurb.com. Her latest publication Nature Explorers Anguilla Wild Side Guide, A Practical Field Guide to Birding on Anguilla is also available at Blurb.

anguilla life, page 16

gardening

Flower Power

s I was photographing Joann Phillip s winning celebratory drink, she showed me the edible flower packets that Four Seasons orders for their bar and recalled eating flowers in SKB as a child . Soon after, I noticed that New York gourmet food shops stocked these and there was even a lovely lady s edible flower stand at my Manhattan outdoor Farmer s Market. Now fascinated by these gorgeous additions, I am still trying to get a recipe using Flamboyant.

Still no luck,so if any reader has, do please let AXA Life know I also discovered that not only Sunset Bar uses flowers very creatively in drinks but Executive Pastry Chef Eddie fancied them in his desserts. Here is a little guide of what to grow.

The most important tip of course is not to use any insecticide on flowers destined to decorate dishes or actually be tasted. . Edible flowers are ordinarily associated with haute cuisine and wedding cakes, but you may have several tasty varieties right in your own backyard. Adding flowers to meals not only makes an ordinary dish look gourmet, but they can also be quite flavorful and nutritious. Historically speaking, many different cultures valued fresh flowers in their culinary endeavors.....Rose petals were popular among Asian Indians, Daylily buds often appear in Oriental dishes, Romans used Violets and stuffed Squash Blossoms were popular in Italian and Hispanic cultures.

A fresh flower sprinkling is rather similar to adding fresh herbs to food. But some unique guidelines to be aware of....before eating

any flower, you must assure it is edible. As a general rule, assume flowers from florists, nurserys or garden centers are NOT! These are nearly always heavily treated with pesticides. The same goes for flowers found near a roadside or in any garden that has been treated with chemicals. Stick to organically grown, or flowers tended yourself without pesticides/herbicides.

Some flowers, however, even organic ones, can make one very sick..... Daphne, Foxglove, Daffodils and Hyacinths are just a few examples of poisonous blooms. There are probably 50 or so edible flowers but consult a reference book or go online to verify, or ask an expert before branching out further. If you re not sure, don t eat it!

Flowers are extremely perishable and don t do well stored in the refrigerator. Ideally, pick them fresh and serve them as soon as possible. Store them upright in a glass of water while preparing. If you must, place them carefully between two moist paper towels, wrap in plastic or in an airtight container to put in the fridge. When ready to use, rinse each flower gently with water, and blot it carefully dry. Use a knife or tweezers to remove the stem, leaves and pistil, then separate the petals, as generally only they are eaten.

Flowers can be eaten raw in salads (Nasturtium, Dandelion and Primrose are popular for this purpose), added to drinks, appetizers or infused into sauces and other dishes. Every flower has a unique taste. Bee Balm is similar to Oregano, Carnations have a Clove-like flavor and Marigolds are sometimes called poor man s Saffron because of their peppery flavor.

A

Bring the Vibrant Flavors of Anguilla Home with You! Our Products Producing jams and sauces from fresh and locally grown ingredients, Our products include: Mashed Up Mango Passion Fruity Kool Kiwi Paw Paw Melon Hot Jamn Sunrise Strawberry Banango AXA Orange Marmalade

Aquaponic Farm Tours We are home to the first and only aquaponic garden on Anguilla. This unique sustainable farming method helps extend the growing season and supplement produce grown by traditional farming methods.

Join us for a free tour and product tasting Thursday mornings at 9am or by appointment.

Call us to confirm and receive directions. Visit our website for further details.

website: www.anguillasjammin.com (c) 1.264.581.2040 (e) mollyn@anguillasjammin.com

hotels Belmond Cap Juluca GM

Tiago Moraes Sarmento has been directing the Belmond $121 million comprehensive renovation investment here since early 2018. Now he oversees the resort s day-today operations, since its reopening mid-December. We will cover this in detail in a future issue but featured are 26 new beachfront villas or suites, interior upgrades to former accommodations, a new culinary concept and restaurants, spa enhancements and new and renovated areas including an infinity-edge seafront pool.

Sarmento s impeccable international hospitality credentials focus on his tireless work ethic and extensive global experience.

Most recently, he was General Manager for Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, the only luxury resort in Brazil s Iguazu National Park. Prior, he spent 18 years with Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc. overseeing properties such as the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico and the W Vieques Retreat and Spa on Vieques Island. A native of Porto, Portugal, Sarmento earned bachelors degrees in hospitality management from both the Glion Hotel School in Switzerland and Estoril Higher Institute for Tourism and Hotel Studies in Portugal. He has a passion for rugby and enjoys spending time with his children.

anguilla life, page 17

Four Seasons General Manager

José Adames first joined Four Seasons in 1999 as Assistant Front Desk Manager at New York s Pierre Hotel. He soon moved to Los Angeles as Beverly Wilshire s Assistant Director, becoming Director of Rooms just 8 months later. In 2006, he went to Four Seasons Dallas in the same capacity, was promoted to Manager of Four Seasons Austin in 2008, followed by Punta Mita as Resort Manager. In 2014, José became General Manager Four Seasons Mexico City. In that most recent post, he and his team earned many awards and achieved the highest revenue and profitability in the hotel s history. With family from the Dominican Republic, he is no stranger to the Caribbean, spending almost every childhood summer there visiting his grandparents.

Originally from New York, he has a degree in Business Administration Management from Pace University. In his spare time, he loves to travel and annually selects two new places to explore... this year, Anguilla s nearby islands. He enjoys jet skiing and sky diving, but his favorite way to spend time is with his 2 sons, Lukas and Diego.

Malliouhana, Auberge Resorts Collection Malliouhana re-opened late 2018 after a yearlong restoration. Soon to unveil are a two-bedroom Turtle Cove villa, eleven beachfront suites, an expanded Auberge Spa with adjacent infinity pool and new culinary concepts.

A legacy hospitality leader and Caribbean native with over 20 years of industry experience and a keen sense for culinary development, recently appointed Manager Kamil Sharma plans to embrace Malliouhana s deep Anguilla ties and breathe new life into the property s legendary guest and dining experiences. Sharma found his passion for travel and hospitality at a young age, then as both a certified FAA commercial pilot and a chef. He got his start in hospitality while working at a restaurant and credits his father, a former luxury hotelier in Canada, for sparking his interest in the industry. Serving as Manager for a variety of top-performing properties including Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C. and The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman as well as Operations VP at

Kerzner International s Atlantis Bahamas and VP and Assistant Corporate Director of F&B Operations at Sandals and Beaches Resorts International. Graduating with honors from the University of the West Indies with a BS in Hotel Management, and in 2009, he received his Executive Leadership and Global Hospitality Certification from Cornell University. An aviation enthusiast, he spends his free time navigating the skies as a pilot.

Altamer, New General Manager In late November after damages sustained in 2017 s hurricanes, Antilles Pearl was reopened. This 5 bedroom 12,000-square-foot villa is comprised of a master suite with private terrace, en suite bathroom with jacuzzi and shower for two, 4 additional bedrooms with en suite baths, a formal dining room, entertainment room, 50-foot skywalk, private study and a rooftop terrace with a stunning 360-degree view of the Atlantic, Caribbean and St. Martin.

Petit Topaz, a newly positioned duplex 2-4 guest villa is perfect for newlyweds or a couples retreat. Approximately 675 square feet per floor, it offers a downstairs bedroom and an additional sleeping loft, an enclosed, private courtyard, outdoor hot tub and access to the beach via a private walkway. The 2 remaining villas are still in restoration.

Preston Brooks was appointed general manager of Altamer in November 2018, following almost 2 decades of service and dedication to the resort. Brooks originally worked at Altamer part time at the restaurant; and also assisted in marketing to global travelers to further attract business. He was then promoted to work as a Butler for the villas and served as the Head Butler for African Sapphire. Prior to his commitment to Altamer, he worked as a Cap Juluca Food Runner and Waiter from 1991 to 1999.

anguilla life, page 18

honouring island icons

Iconic .....relating to, or having the characteristics of an icon widely recognized, acknowledged, very successful, admired and well-established especially for distinctive excellence...a representative symbol of a belief, nation, community or cultural movement.

Our sincere appreciation for past original tributes of David Carty, Cardigan Connor, Jan Hein, Nat Hodge, Ralph Hodge, Colville Petty, Harris Richardson and Pam Webster as well as these late icon s Memorial Book contributors providing meaningful memories, quotes, appropriate adjectives and comments. We ve combined these into honouring these late Anguillians for whom boat racing also played a very important role in their lives!

B

Sir Emile Rudolph Gumbs March 18, 1928 -May 10, 2018

orn in St. Kitts, to Anguillians, Johnson Emile and Inez Beatrice (née Carty) Gumbs, Emile grew up under the watch of the extended family households of North Hill and Sandy Ground. He attended school in North Hill and St. Kitts returning to Anguilla upon his graduation with honours.

Like many young Anguillians, he worked overseas, at Aruba s Laho Oil refinery, then sailed on tankers, traveling south to Lake Maracaibo and north to Jacksonville, Florida. In 1948, he won his first election as his tanker s crew representative. Eventually returning to Anguilla, in 1955 he began sailing his own trading sloop, the Venus, between PR, the Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Anguilla. When his mentor and uncle, Elliot Carty passed away in 1967, Emile took over the management of his Anguilla Road Salt.

Active in Anguilla s bid for St. Kitts separation, Emile became fully embroiled in the struggle engaged as Peacekeeping Committee member, managing the island s affairs until elections. He subsequently was involved in crafting Britain and Anguilla s new relationship. On August Monday in Antigua, he represented Anguilla s case for separation until it was agreed that no West Indian armed forces would take any action against Anguilla. July 30, 1968 Anguilla s first election, he won his Road North Seat and Council membership, serving as Secretary. In 1976, under CM Ronald Webster and the new Anguilla Constitution, he became one of the first Ministers - Works, Communications and Tourism. Following a no confidence vote in that Government, he first served as Chief Minister 1977-1980 and ANA leader from 1984-1994, when he retired. The honour of being Anguilla s longest running (13 years) Chief Minister, and undefeated politically for 26 years, this stalwart servant of the people, like Indira Ghandi, said Our nation s strength ultimately consists in what it can do on its own, and not what it can borrow from others.

Gumbs led when white gloves were presented to visiting judges indicating there were no criminal matters to be heard, reflective of the civility generally demonstrated by Anguillians in their co-dealings. He sought to ensure that Anguillianness was maintained.

Possessing a legendary keen wit, he knew how to get along with others. He spearheaded tourism as a major factor for promoting the economy and his innate ability to keep a steady hand on the tiller as he guided Anguilla into her new economic success as a low-key upmarket tourism destination. Sir Emile continued to provide advice and support in the political arena and maintained his Sandy Ground home, built by his Grandfather in 1902. An active member of the Anguilla Archaeological and Historical Society and the National Trust, his bird knowledge and guided historical and nature walking Road Bay Salt Pond tours, were some favorite after retirement enjoyments.

His style and attitude brought honour and glory. The only person from Anguilla to be knighted, he made a very special request to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. This honor is not really for me, but it s for all the people of Anguilla. The Queen kindly granted his request and accompanied by Prince Philip, Sir Emile Gumbs was appointed a Knight Bachelor at the March 1994 New Years Honours in the Anguilla s Governor office. His primary focus was to provide a better way of life for all Anguillians without automatically eroding what made Anguillians. This true patriot sought to preserve cultural heritage and many spoke of his calm leadership. Coming under personal political rival attacks, he took the high road, remained concentrated on his service role as political leader and diligently pursued the best possible outcomes for Anguillians in a civil atmosphere of warmth, humility and friendliness. A quiet, unassuming but effective, strong willed man, one always one to be counted on, Sir Emile will always be remembered Determination to relaunch grandfather for quiet and humble grace and his deep commitment and love of Anguilla and her citizens.

Rebuilding his Saga Boy with Bullitt and proudly displaying his trophies (above), maritime exploits earned Gumbs the respectful name Captain Dickie, after his great-uncle, a master seaman and sail-maker. His adventuresome lifestyle immersed in Anguilla s rich culture and sea tradition, set the stage for the many stories and sense of humor he entertained all with over the course of his life. His involvement in the support of boat racing, and his participation with his own highly competitive boat, earned him a place of distinction in Anguilla s sailing history. The annual around the island Anguilla Day boat race was renamed in his honour in 2018. (Claire Devener photos)

Capt. Arthur Romney Carty s famous schooner, the Warspite, damaged in 1960 Hurricane Donna, earned Emile command of the beloved vessel. Trading afield from Trinidad to the Dominican Republic and carrying sup- plies and men to Sombrero.

Chosen for her grace, beauty and legends created transporting Anguillian cane workers to and from the DR, the Warspite still sails the Caribbean but on the back of the EC $10 bill.

anguilla life, page 19

Albert Emanuel Hughes November 8,1934-December 21, 2016

This former Elected Representative, Government Minister and Parliamentary Secretary served those of his West End/Long Bay Constituency and by extension, the people of Anguilla, for 27 years. An unassuming, quiet gentleman, Belto , as he was affectionately called, was a building contractor, boat owner and captain, humanitarian and devoted family man. One of Anguilla s most loved, honest, role model statesmen, he referred to those in his Constituency as my people and consistently looked to their interests before his personal benefit.

The day before his National Funeral, Belto was given his last sailing trip resting in his boat-shaped casket. From Sandy Ground to Meads Bay and back, the Hughes barge, Zion Train 2, was accompanied by the family owned fully-rigged racing boats Light & Peace and De Wizard. His nephew, Earl Hughes (Toller), Zion s captain, often said that he wanted to take his uncle for his final sail. (Jan Hein photo)

Forever etched in the memories of Anguilla boat racing, the contributions of Captain Belto will never be forgotten, Connor continued. Dedicating much of his adult life to boat-racing...probably from the age of 12 and up to 70 years, Hughes was actively involved. Especially in Light & Peace, formerly owned by his late father, Kedro, a fishing boat which often transported people from West End/South Hill to St. Martin. Long before outboard motors, she carried over livestock, brooms and bags of coals and brought back ground provisions. When racing season came, Light & Peace was a Champion of Champions, August Monday and Thursday winner and continues to place admirably in today s races. A Belto dream was to win Anguilla Day s around the island race; his crew strongly promises to continue to seek that win. Belto was the main source of financing ensuring Light & Peace s good upkeep and also long served as her race Captain. De Wizard, also a family boat, was previously named Light & Peace 2. Belto initiated its building too and these two boats symbolize his career as a boat racer.

Always at the forefront for the concerns and rights of his district s fishermen, he was a unifying force within the West End boat racing community. Spearheading the drive to build The Cove pier, he was always there when a fishing problem erupted. As Ralph Hodge wrote: Belto was loved because he was a caring person, who firmly believed and realised that he was a servant of the people and not their master. He may have appeared as an overly quiet man, but embedded in that quietness was the heart of a lion the first politician who, when he said no, meant no; and when he said yes, meant yes. This should be the litmus test for anyone in the realm of politics especially in a society as ours.

As Jan Hein wrote in all At Sea, Devon Beggar Daniels made a 7 foot replica of Light & Peace for the top of Hughes grave. It took him a week to set up the frames, lay up tiny planks, finish in minute detail paint, graphics and numbered ballast stones glued in the bottom. In Anguilla it is called a wreath. Never before had a wreath looked like a boat nor had any sailor been given such an amazing tribute. It was, to my eyes, the finest tribute ever for a man of the sea.

Among hundreds of condolences, one said it best: RIP Mr. Hughes. You have finished the race.

That sail didn t happen when Belto was alive. As his godson, Parliamentary Secretary Cardigan Connor, a key player in the sea trip said, it is a symbol to the rest of Anguilla that, while we give a lot of verbal tributes to deserving people, an act like this says that we really should appreciate the contributions of the likes of Albert Belto Hughes. So fitting was that cultural act of honour to pay him significant tribute.

Light & Peace and De Wizard (photo collage Andy Brooks), Belto receiving his West End Boat Racing Award from NCBA s Marisa Gumbs and sometimes captain of Light & Peace.

anguilla life, page 20

Iwandai I Jahsenti I Gumbs September 2, 1954-October 7, 2016

diminutive giant of a man blessed with a well-cultivated, powerful, influential voice and the excellent command of the English language befitting a serious radio broadcaster. Iwandai s outspokenness, honesty and reliability helped keep people informed and educated. His excellent sales and marketing skills, experience and expertise from Radio Anguilla, were perfected when he and his long-time colleague and close-knit friend, the late Ras B, left the station. They set up broadcasting and commercial services at Heart Beat Radio, then jointly Up Beat Radio.....exceptional friends who worked and lived in a spirit of oneness, humility, moderation, and love. A class of commentaries important to the keeping of culture alive and exciting, was their hallmark.

Live coverage ranged from boat and cycle racing to Summer Festival s Parade of Troops.

Iwandai s voice was the voice of the people. An independent and complex thinker, his views, beliefs, notable preaching, Biblical doctrine knowledge and interpretation, transcended by far those of his own brethren. He never forgot to advise from whence you came, telling your position or allowing you to have relevant, pertinent advice and guidance that would eventually determine where you were heading. The word cannot was not in his vocabulary and educating was food to him. His sermons made sense as a gateway for a bright Anguilla future journey. Iwandai contested elections in 2000 and 2005 and as an environmentalist, cleared roads from view obstructing bush adding blooms and greenery to make Anguilla safer as well as more aesthetically pleasing.

A

Iwandai frequently took to the sea to provide lively coverage of boat racing with Harris Richardson (r.), Ralph Hodge and his brother Bennie, as broadcast engineer. From back in 1992 weekend mornings, listeners looked forward to lively commentary on Boat Race Crossfire with DJ Ritchie. (Ivor Hodge photo)

David Cromwell Hodge

or David Hodge, a lean, serious man with a black goatee, boat building was his labour of love. He called his business David s Art Gallery and oft laboured 12-hour days for over a quarter century in his South Hill shed under a spreading pomserette tree. This craftsman extraordinaire also built model boats, cabinets, did interior work at Malliouhana, drove a taxi, played guitar, mechanically maintained aircraft and perfected his boat building trade at David Carty s Rebel Marine in North Hill for a year and a half.

He built his first boat at age 15, a 12 footer to fish around the rocks. Later stolen,

F

August 31, 1957-October 18, 2016

next was an 18 fishing boat he sold. In 1977 shortly after leaving school, he began carving fish, birds and his much admired small model boats.

His first model, the Warspite, had a working wheel, rudder, port, starboard, head and mast lights and was battery operated by a toy car motor connected to a transformer. Enjoying remote control model boat racing living in St. Croix, he had considered designing some models for radio control. Bertram Richardson s Saga Girl was Hodge s first racing boat model. Then came the Cindy A, one of most popular because of her attractive colours.

Completion took about 8 work days and depended on the glue used. Paint provided some sealing, but models had to be waterproof glued, properly weighted and balanced to sail. To ensure perfect reflection, he measured the original and used a scale of 1 /1 . Early racing models were 18 x 5 , then 28 x 7 the current size and the largest 36 x 9 . When actual racers were rebuilt, David s models reflected changes from the scale down to the paintwork.

Hodge built and rebuilt A and B Class racing winners Nathalie, Warrior, Blue Bird, Miss Anguilla, Sonic, Tsunami, Wasp, Apache, Alma Gloria, Di Genius and Teaser. Always trying to exceed what he d done, he used no metal fasteners, and worked with white pine, Douglas fir, Grade A marine ply and epoxy in quite a different way.

Never mincing words, David often captained in races with two of his creations competing, Confident his would prevail... I made

these two boats, so I know they can win. Up to the captain now. If I have a winner , I try to build one that will beat it. Sailing before the wind is easy.....the unvoiced conclusion being one does not always sail before the wind!

David s 1999 rebuilt Blue Bird (above) was according to its owners, the fastest. Co- owner and builder of Warrior 140, the winner of 1989 AXA Day. Exact replicas of well known racers Saga Boy, Winsall, Alma Gloria, Decision, Concorde, Wasp, Blue Bird, Stay Up, Rum Punch and Eagle were proudly collected by visitors, locals and even chosen to decorate rooms at elegant CoveCastles.

anguilla life, page 21

just thinking about gorgeous scilly cay

On the Menu... (all fresh & grilled)

Lobster Crayfish Fish Chicken

T

Eudoxie Gorgeous Wallace Nov. 11, 1940 - Dec. 11, 2017

he son of Marydee and Alfred Wallace of Mt. Fortune, Eudoxie migrated to the USVI in the late 50 s to work with his contractor uncle and remained in the States for 25 years in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, California and Atlanta. He started building tennis courts in California with retired tennis champion, Lloyd Budge, formed his own company and continued this profession the rest of his life. He would be so proud to know his sons, Alexander and Brandon had well learned his trade to capably repair Frangipani and Malliouhana courts after Irma. Also an excellent A class men s singles player, Eudoxie often filled in here when hotel pros were off.

In February 1985, Eudoxie, his wife Sandra and their 10 month old son, Alexander, moved from Atlanta to Eudoxie s homeland; a year later, their second son, Brandon was born. The Wallaces submitted a proposal to lease Scilly Cay. A 99-year lease was granted, and Eudoxie had a vision of creating a place using Anguilla s natural materials. Everyone would be welcomed to spend the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, socializing; and enjoying a simple menu of extraordinary deliciousness! Through much hard work and determination, Eudoxie s vision was realized. Simply The Best Gorgeous Scilly Cay! became a must do and maintained that high standard for 33 years.

Eudoxie built Scilly like a fortress. After 1995 Hurricane Luis and Category 5 Hurricane Irma in September 2017, it still stood. Blessed that the conch shell walls stood up to Irma s battering, as did most of the main building, which was cemented 5 ft. deep with channel iron steel. Anything and everything not cemented or nailed was washed away...beach and lounge chairs, picnic tables, grills, gazebos, the destroyed dock, whose parts were flung over to the other side of the Bay Amazingly, the Helipad actually remained intact.

Sadly a few months after Irma, Eudoxie lost his battle with cancer. It has been very tough, Sandra reflected. Our small, tight knit family was marred with sadness and in the beginning, unsure of Scilly Cay s future. We ve always done everything together, and often said that I am the cake and Eudoxie the frosting. Now Alexander and Brandon are the cake.

But with words of encouragement, calls, emails and messages of love and support, we were (photo @JetSetSarah) able to slowly regain traction. Beloved Scilly friends at home and abroad sent donations to Scilly Cay Go Fund Me to help purchase material. Island Harbour and across Anguilla Fruit Punch Mix: 46 oz pineapple juice friends donated time, labour, use of a car, truck, a boat to get across, equipment, construction 46 oz orange juice 12 oz guava juice advice and so much more. Many, many thanks to all!

20 dashes Angostura bitters 1/2 cup Lime Cordial Post hurricane, Scilly has come a long way, but there is still much to do. 1/2 cup Grenadine Rum Mix: 64 oz Mount Gay Rum Despite the laborious process of rebuilding, we are ecstatic to see the progress of our 10 oz Amaretto Fill a 12-oz glass with ice. dedicated staff and very big-hearted volunteers who have worked tirelessly, Add Rum Mix 1/4 way Alexander explained. Thousands of rocks and coral thrown by Irma s 12 foot Finish with the Fruit Punch Mix waves were removed handful by handful. The sand erosion when the water seeped away, rooted out rock boulders leaving just the island s coral base. The three destroyed gazebos were dismantled, removed and now are jack-hammered with new foundations. The kitchen roof has been completely replaced, the one on the main building, plumbing, cistern and electrical have all been restored. I just poured the new dock to allow access for people, material, equipment and everything else that was swept away; next come the side railings.

The Wallace family is very grateful for their continued support through the decades and on during rebuilding efforts. Eudoxie would be so pleased that so many loved Scilly as much as his family does.

Despite his absence, his legacy will continue to live on, as they restore the island he very much loved The best surprise...the giant drift wood piece placed on the beach in and built. Looking forward to the day of completion to welcome all back to 1990, survived once more, like an Gorgeous Scilly Cay! (estimation by August Carnival time). Email: Gorgeousscilly@gmail.com or Tel. omen, validating that Scilly Cay (264)235-2539 or 235-5000.

Simply The Best RumPunch

will rise again!

anguilla life, page 22

kudos

Travel + Leisure readers voted ANGUILLA as the 2019 #1 ISLAND IN THE CARIBBEAN for the second consecutive year!

CNN named Bankie Banx THE DUNE the World s Best Beach Bar

QUINTESSANCE on CNN Travel s 2018 list of Best New Caribbean Hotels and Resorts New York Times Travel Section recognized Q as one of its 52 Places to Visit in 2018 Wine Spectator 2018 Award of Excellence with a 1,600 bottle collection, all stored in Q s state-of-the-art wine celllar Conde Nast Traveler Newsletter 4/05/19 Sandy Island and Four Seasons Half Shell among the 9 Best Caribbean Beach Bars

USA Today 2019 Caribbean Readers Choice Anguilla #5 in Best Caribbean Destinations for Romance Elvis Beach Bar #5 Best Beach Bars CuisinArt #9 Best Golf Courses Four Seasons Resort & Residences #8 and Zemi #10 Best Resorts Sandy Island #10 Best Beaches CARIMAR BEACH CLUB 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice #2 Caribbean Small Hotel #3 Best Hotels for Service Classic Vacations 2018 Year s Luxury Destination ZEMI BEACH HOUSE U.S. News and World Report 2019 #1 Best Hotel in Anguilla Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice 2018 Best Hotels in the Caribbean Travel+ Leisure 2018 Best Hotels in the Caribbean Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2018 Caribbean s Top 25 Luxury Hotels, Top 25 Hotels and Top 25 Hotels for Service

Celebration Cocktail Competition Winner

F

our Seasons bartender Joann Phillip took first place in our Anguilla Life/Angostura special celebratory AXA 50th Anniversary Cocktail Competition. Her original creation, Passionate, earned praises from the spectators as well as judges, who even requested her to make a 2nd round.

Born in St. Kitts but raised in Anguilla, Joann was introduced to bartending by Mandy Bossons at Roys. She then moved on to Viceroy 11 years ago where her passion for hospitality and mixology developed. Joann, the proud mother of 9-year old Day, lyrically enthuses I love anything that speaks of past times, a life we did not live in...anything that inspires me to think outside the box. I m a true Shakespeare buff, he talks about magic and a world where anything is possible. Bartending comes with diversity, discoveries, new cultures, guests to meet and to reconnect. Full of energy, bar life never stops, every cocktail has a bit of culture attached to it.

Creating a cocktail for Joann is very artistic. She starts off by thinking about the appearance and the look, what garnish would be eye catching and different and of course the balancing of all. Passionate is a true statement of Anguilla s past, present and bright future...a drink created to represent our passion for life. The golden orange colour symbolizes Anguilla emerging victorious from years of hardship. Foam elevates the presentation but also depicts how Anguilla continues to elevate in unity and strength.

Joann s winner was enthusiastically introduced to guests at the hotel s weekly Manager s Cocktail reception and featured on the drink menu at Sunset Bar. Joann has been promoted to Supervisor so don t miss asking for her winning libation.

Prepare a Passionate at home.

Shake together 2 oz. Angostura 7 Rum, 2 dashes Angostura Orange Bitters, 1/2 oz. lemon juice, 1/2 oz. homemade Cinnamon syrup. Top with a foam of Passion Fruit juice, Grand Marnier, Amaretto, regular Angostura Bitters, egg white. Decorate with edible flowers...Flamboyant here but Pansies can work well too.

anguilla life, page 23

Joan and Martin completely costumed for the beach in her cut-out white cotton cover-up and his adorable, colourfully printed bathing shorts. Big straw hats and sharp sunglasses are perfect sun protection.

let s shop

Shoal Bay s spectacular shades inspired Zemi Beach House s tag line, A Different Point Of Blue . Focused on and reflected throughout the resort, their cool, comfortable, well designed OUT OF THE BLUE boutique, stresses variety in size, colour and price.

An island must for turning up fashionable resortwear for the entire family and Anguilla made artwork, food and photography. Great gifts include candles, pottery, Zemi beach sand jewelry and accessories from cuff links and wine stoppers to money clips and key rings. Daily 10am-6pm, open evenings high season and holidays. All credit cards.

Mobiles, driftwood and shell gifts from local beach trivia and the island s best selection of bikinis, one piece swimwear and cover ups.

Joan and Jahia show off some of Zemi s sophisticated prints and smashing coloured fashions ...perfect for AXA as well as summer evenings back home.

Accessories are tropically toned tagua (natural palm ivory). One line from Peru, the second St. Martin/ France, and both are creating new, exclusive to OUT OF THE BLUE pieces for their latest collection.

anguilla life, page 24

2017 Miss Anguilla A trailblazer, the epitome of grace and beauty and a voice for women s issues

Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers 2018 Miss Universe Great Britain

combination of a quest to satisfy her desire to compete and some serendipity led to Dee-Ann embarking down the pageant route. I really enjoyed my Miss Anguilla experience in 2017 and early on discovered that it revitalised my competitive nature. That s how I set my sights on Miss Universe Great Britain.

I was living in Birmingham so it all fell into place. Family and friends were extremely supportive thrilled, overjoyed and immensely proud are just some of the sentiments they expressed. They were on Facebook and Instagram sharing my pictures and celebrating my win, grabbing 10 copies of each paper and recording every interview they d seen online!

A former athlete and heptathlon competitor, she trained alongside Team GB sprinter Zharnel Hughes and long jumper, Shara Proctor, both Anguillian. She s a phenomenal woman, has her head on, is very athletic, focused, intelligent as well and I m just really proud to see that she went out here from small, little Anguilla, represented to the full of her potential and came out victorious, said Proctor. Forced to retire from athletics due to a knee injury, this did not stop Dee-Ann from pursuing and obtaining success. My grandmother came to the UK to work in a factory in Gloucestershire, but returned to Anguilla 8 years later. She had many sayings; the one repeated most often to me was, behind every cloud was a silver lining . In that disappointment and despair, her words came to me and I knew I had to re-create myself, As a result, Dee-Ann has felt a personal connection to the recent Windrush controversy. It has great significance to me and generations of Caribbean people who ve made the UK their home. Referring to the difficulties that many who chose the UK have been facing, she said: I struggle to understand actions which deny their great contribution and which rejects their right to citizenship.

In everything I ve ever done, I always set aside a moment for stillness. Before setting foot on the track I d take in my surroundings, inhale a deep breath and relax. I recognise what a privilege it is to be here.

To represent not only the UK but AXA. To have a platform aligned with my passions: female empowerment and sports. Now I m being still before another competition: national costume in less than 2 days!!!

A

Dressed in a beautiful orange gown, Dee-Ann looked regal and well poised. On Instagram, she wrote that orange meant a lot to me because it s a colour in the Anguilla flag. It s also a colour for the charity Sisterhood I worked with raising funds and awareness for women victims of acid attacks and genital mutilation. And it s a colour that I feel brightest in.

Kentish-Rogers says, It s an incredible feeling to have won the Miss Universe Great Britain title and even more incredible for it to be a history-making moment. The panel s choice is somewhat in line with the beauty of black women being better represented now in everything from the cosmetics industry to the media, but it says much more black women with self-belief excel in any endeavour.

She traveled to South Africa to spend time with Black Mamba, an all female anti-poaching unit who work to save endangered rhinos.

She also visited a centre for victims of acid attacks in India and another that helps survivors and those at risk of FGM in the UK. Funds raised in the UK were presented. The 25-year-old s message to young black girls is to aspire and believe in yourself. Every obstacle or disappointment can be turned into an advantage.

Most importantly, if there is a space in this world that you want to see yourself in, even if there is no one else there who looks like you go there, don t apologise, be brave. What s more, she s keen to prove that there s more to pageants than what meets the eye. There s a misconception that pageantry is simply about beauty. Usually the day on stage is our day to have fun but a lot of hard work goes in beforehand preparing platforms, raising money and awareness for the causes of our choice and supporting the network of women that we meet.

The crown is only a symbol of tremendous responsibility that I eagerly embraced. Going forward to Thailand to the Miss Universe final, I was proud to represent 66 million and 15,000 people and dedicated every fibre of my being over 4 1/2 months to make GB and Anguilla exceedingly proud. Dee-Ann, the first Anguillian and black woman to capture the title of Miss Universe Great Britain, out of a field of 94 Miss Universe contestants made it to the top 20. Indeed an historic and proud moment for Anguilla to see one of their very own on an international stage. Congratulations Dee-Ann, we all salute you!

On her way to becoming a Barrister.

Her plans are to pursue her legal career and continue to be a voice for women s issues across the world.

Some might not think that a pageant queen is the right role model, but her perseverance in the face of adversity and ability to excel in a variety of fields is bound to inspire. Photos: Stacey Clarke, Jerome DuPont,and Joey Rosado.

anguilla life, page 25

music Introducing Infusion XL

by Quinson Gumbs

Front row L-R: Christopher Chuky Pechevin; Darren Biggest Hamilton; Kylon Cleaner Hull; Casey KC Reid; Kamoi Wiggy Carty and Kerwyn Prick Goddard. Back row: Quinson Biggz Gumbs; Denroy Chicky Gumbs

B

ands in Anguilla typically remind us of sports teams. Being a sport fanatic and a band member I am all too familiar with the similarities.....keep the core, change the role players, work on the chemistry. Infusion had this philosophy down to a science. Since its inception in 2006 and producing their first album in 2007, Infusion Band had a total of 12 different members. But yet, they managed to maintain their brand of sweet melodic Soca music infused with several other genres reminding us of sports teams.

However sometimes, there are moments when decisions are taken and nobody can have a clear picture as how they would turn out. Late in September 2015 a founder and also key member of the band had to leave and it was no easy decision. Left with no keyboardist, no drummer and one singer, the core of Infusion Band was well and truly decimated.

Fresh off of his 7th Bandorama title, Kerwyn Prick Goddard and The Band X, had a changing similar to that of Infusion. Having worked and heavily influenced Infusion s 2015 album it was a hand in glove fit between the two bands. Kerwyn s experience with artists both locally and regionally brought the experience in building beats, playing overseas, working professionally amongst other numerous attributes that made a merger possible. After numerous meetings between the two bands working out the details, Infusion XL was formed. The new entity consisted of 8 members with one common goal... WIN EVERYTHING! The first gig for IXL came in November 2015 on Statia. That was a sign of things to come. Getting feedback, the fan base was 100% merger supportive and the general direction of the band. Fast forward to January 2016. The band hosted their now annual Blue Carpet event, as the official IXL colour is blue, and had a packed house at the Royal Caribbean Resort & Spa in Little Harbour. This announced that there was a new band on the block and they were rising fast. For May 2016 Anguilla Day weekend celebrations, IXL gave a top notch performance on the infamous Dawg Pound Boatride and earned the respect from rival bands and even radio personalities and many DJs. Hard work, dedicated practice, an amazing management team and a great sponsor can be the difference between a band participating in the J ouvert road jam and sitting on the sidelines. IXL decided to approach FLOW as a major sponsor, who jumped at the idea; we were onboard in no time. IXL released their debut album July 2016 to much anticipation and fanfare. Infusion s groovy, well known Soca was very evident on this album with a

touch of roughness synonymous with The Band X. Performing at Wet Fete 2016 was nothing short of amazing and IXL placed 2nd in that song competition. Only the band knew what they were going to do that night in terms of performance and they executed it superbly.

One trophy in the bag and several more up for grabs, IXL kept the celebrations to a minimum. Focus went into Bandorama, Bandclash and the newly introduced Toss Up segment. This required bands to perform a random song from another competing band. With the usual pre stage jitters and everyone going through their anti anxiety rituals, the band grouped together and went on stage to put on a performance unlike anything ever fan witnessed before. A trifector, a triple threat, a hat-trick, a clean sweep. Call it whichever synonym for thrice that you like. History was written on that Bandclash night where IXL in their debut year secured first place in all 3 segments taking home 3 trophies.

The celebrations were a bit more elated than Wet Fete but once again IXL had to press on. J ouvert was on the horizon. Monday morning came and everyone was focused on the job to do. In a 5 hour long competition of non stop music and revelling it s very easy to lose focus of the task at hand but IXL stuck to it. They played until there was nothing left. When the Roadmarch champs were announced, it was not the title that IXL had dreamed of, but a debut year in which they overcame obstacle over obstacle, competition after competition to place in every single one. A second place trophy at J ouvert morning was achieved and more than deserved.

Pandemonium, shock, joy, excitement....the wait was finally over.

Two bands who had been competing against each other for 9 years had joined forces and collectively achieved the biggest trophies of their existence. Kerwyn secured an unprecedented 8th Bandorama title and will no doubt at the young age of 27, go into the Anguillian musical history annals as one of the greatest of all time.

A taste of success and a glimpse of what the future holds has put into the minds of everyone who witnessed IXL over 2016 that they won t quit. They won t give up even when the task ahead seems insurmountable. A debut year, an ever growing fan base and 5 trophies later, Infusion XL is just beginning its quest for total dominance of the Anguilla Soca scene.

Lead Guitarist Quinson Gumbs has a Bachelors Degree in International Relations from the University of East London. Among his passions are soccer, listening to and creating diverse music.

anguilla life, page 26

My Miss Anguilla Experience

P

by Carencia Rouse

articipating in the 2016 Miss Anguilla Pageant was a culmination of years of wondering what it would be like to hold this title. When my best friend was crowned in 2014, I was closest to committing but afraid of how I might be received, the vulnerability in such a high pressure competition and that my best just wouldn t be enough. The week before contestants were revealed, I received high call frequency encouraging participation. My initial responses were firm no s. I had no prior Pageant experience, preparation was too short and time to craft the ideal swimsuit body since I had no gym training and my preferred chaperone, Amber Woodley, planned absence for her Master s graduation for 3 of the 6 preparation weeks. Much inconvenience but the calls and messages kept coming.

At June 25 eleventh hour I spent an unsettling Saturday debating pros and cons. Sunday morning, my head was about to explode with so much uncertainty. Pulled in two different directions, I wanted to do this, but knew it required much more than myself. I recontacted Amber, she agreed and off we went down to DaVida s where the contestants had already picked their numbers. I was automatically labelled Contestant #4 . After final announcements, pictures and well wishes, we crafted a theme along with potential segment looks, quickly agreeing on most ideas including that my platform would be to speak on issues I am passionate about. We would try our best to win, but it was more important to deliver a performance the audience would remember from Introductory Speech straight through to Interview. We dubbed it the Carencia Show because #thisishowiFLOW. (thank you FLOW, my enthusiastic sponsor.)

The next weeks were intensely packed with gym training, practice sessions and a strict meal plan while Hilroy Alfred s Ruff Training ensured my stage ready body. Our first official appearance, my speech was very short, the DJ did not cue the music, so I had to model in silence back to my position.

Many were convinced I d forgotten my words or, to quote the popular term, bussed . My support shifted with many no longer confident I would deliver on With the confetti flowing, the night of the show and how Carencia proudly wears her 2016 I might as well give up. I must Miss Anguilla crown. (Louise admit this annoyed me but I Fayet photo) was not deterred. I knew what I was capable of and I had a team of trusted, capable critics I heeded, managing to keep it together.

Pressure and exhaustion can take its toll on even the strongest individual. I was no exception. Sunday morning before the show at the gym warming up on the stair master, I began to cry. I sobbed for all my aching muscles, burns, bruises, the sore throat from reciting my speech and talent over and over, for all going wrong and the negativity that tried to break me. I cried then because I knew it was the last time I would allow myself to collapse. My dress and swimsuit, beautifully made by Randy Madray from Guyana, arrived the evening before the show. Some significant alterations were needed but I was relieved. We spent the night sewing, gluing, bedazzling, chatting and laughing in an atmosphere of love, support,

Carencia Rouse earned a BA Honours in Environmental Studies with Distinction and Minor in Women s and Gender Studies at Canada s Carleton University. Awarded a Chevening Scholarship, she pursued her MS in the UK at Oxford and is now Anguilla s Department of Environment Coordinator of Conservation Education.

commitment and affinity. I exhaled deep breaths of gratitude, knowing the rest was up to me. I just had to deliver.

Before I left home to compete, my Mother prayed with me and spoke life into me like she always does. I was ready for whatever was in store. Not as nervous as I expected backstage getting my hair and makeup done, my music playlist prevented hearing anything outside and the reassuring presence of my heartfelt rock throughout, Chaperone Amber. Stepping up to the mic for my Introductory Speech, I heard someone yelling another contestant s name. A deep breath and I proceeded with my artistically crafted speech to capture my passion and dynamism. Thank you once again for this masterpiece, Teacher Sarah. As I spoke, a multitude of questions buzzed in my head. Why are the lights so bright? Why is it so hot? Am I speaking too quickly? Why does my voice sound like this? My makeup is melting into my eyes! Aya lawd I can t see!

WHO sent me up here to do this? Satan, I rebuke you in the name of Jesus! I trusted that these questions did not register on my face.

I declared a social platform of recycling and conservation the basis of one of my passions and my chosen career path. Each performance paid homage to beautiful world ecosystems, starting with AXA. Themed Reflections of Paradise , I talked about pollution and rapid deterioration of our coastal environments to elicit a sense of responsibility for the exploitative practices that exacerbate them.

In essence, this was a reflection on Anguilla s earlier years, when the environmental beauty we love to boast of was at its prime! For the Talent Segment, I was very nervous. As I listened to my description being read, I realized that this was my opportunity to speak and be heard. I had trusted my gut and written a piece that I am immensely proud of. Amethyst Davis and Kerith Kentish provided the training to bring to life my speaking from the heart monologue. I hoped my passion could compel people to listen and be moved. I introduced myself as a feminist, debunking the universally conceptualized myth that feminism is centered on a hatred for men. I spoke on issues of marginalization often taken for granted and I was very satisfied by the outcome. Swimsuit, Costume and Eveningwear were fun, albeit very tiring. By the Interview, I was ready for the show to be over, listening to music backstage until my turn. Walking onto the stage I remember saying to myself Aya lawd look at all these people! Not anticipating any of the questions but before each answer, I reminded myself to take time, collect my thoughts and again, to speak from my heart. As I heard my words echoing, I knew I was accomplishing to make the audience remember me.

When I was announced the 2016 Miss Anguilla winner by 32 points, I looked to God in reverence because in that moment,

anguilla life, page 27 I was once again reminded that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Being crowned Miss Anguilla was just one of many blessings God bestowed upon me in 2016. I was accepted to the University of Oxford to pursue a Master of Science in Nature, Society and Environmental Governance. Admission to one of the UK s oldest and most prestigious institutions was extremely difficult and competitive but I did not immediately grasp the magnitude of this accomplishment. I cannot appropriately express how grateful I am to have been an Ambassador for Anguilla in every way I pledged to make my island, my family and myself proud. From humble beginnings I have come.

Love... Miss Anguilla 2016!

noteworthy PLEASED TO MEAT YOU ay goodbye to the days of toting your cooler of meat to the island, or heading over to Saint Martin for your steak de boeuf. Recently opened, tHE BUtCHERY is a proper butcher shop selling fresh, marinated and cooked meats, and a wide range quality provisions. Located in old KoalKeel on Crocus Hill steeped with history and memories for Anguilla s residents and frequent visitors tHE BUtCHERY pays homage to this heritage site with its artisanal food offerings and traditional approach to serving goods.

S

WHAT DO THEY SELL? A daily changing selection of meats, including high quality beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and veal, is offered fresh, cut in-store to your specific requirements by professional Butcher. Shawn Strand. There is also a selection of marinated meats, including Chipotle and Lime, Tandoori Spiced, Teriyaki, Steak-House, Beer and Garlic, to name a delicious few. For the grillers, tHE BUtCHERY make their own fresh beef, lamb, chicken and veal burgers and kebabs so that you can spend less time prepping, and more time noshing.

DO THEY ONLY SELL MEAT? They also offer a wide selection of artisan salts and peppers from around the world, to enhance meat flavours.

Cornichons, chipotle peppers, French grain and Dijon mustard, Horseradish, locally-grown herbs, and fresh-made salsas are also on offer. As they expand, tHE BUtCHERY is designed to be a one-stop-shop for provisions, selling local fresh bread, cheeses, marinated olives, pickles, and homemade hummus.

WHERE IS THE MEAT FROM? High-quality meat is sourced from where it s best: beef from the USA and Australia, lamb from New Zealand and Chile, pork from the USA, local goat and suckling pigs.

HOW DO THEY GET IT HERE? On refrigerated units so that it lands with a pulse.

IS THE MEAT ORGANIC? Yes. No hormones. No antibiotics. Just fine wholesome natural flavours.

WHAT S THE MINIMUM ORDER? There is no minimum order. If you want one lamb chop, you may have one lamb chop.

THEY MUST BE EXPENSIVE, NO? No. Their prices are US$ by the lb.

That means you can get a good size steak for around $14. Organic chicken is only $6.60/lb, which is about 3 good size breasts. At $4.80 for a beef burger, that s a cheap meal. For wholesome, fresh meat, prices are comparable with the US, and an excellent offering considering transportation costs and customs duties. Go into the shop and see for yourself.

tHE BUtCHERY are husband and wife team, Shawn and Alison Strand. Having previously owned a celebrated restaurant in Thailand, they came to Anguilla 3 years ago for a taste of the Caribbean.

Shawn has worked in professional kitchens around the world, receiving special invitations to cook for dignitaries, Heads of State, British royalty, Sheiks, and Hollywood celebrities. Whilst Alison s background is in business and marketing, her most important function at tHE BUtCHERY is as Chief of Washing Up.

DO THEY SELL COOKED MEAT? On Fat Tuesday every week, they offer a selection of cooked meats, including Whole Roast Chicken, Leg of Lamb, and Pork Shoulder cooked in their 250-year-old Keel - nicknamed Aretha because she belts out the heat. For a fabulous smoky flavour, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside call tHE BUtCHERY to pre-order.

DO THEY SERVE FOOD? February will see them rolling out their BREAKFAST TO GO a heady nod to their Caribbean roots with Saltfish Baguettes, Green Banana Porridge, Curry Lobster, Pumpkin and Coconut Dumplings, and Bush Tea. Some breakfast staples on the menu include Homemade Yogurt, Breakfast Burrito with house-made chorizo, and of course, The Butcher s Breakfast: castiron seared Porterhouse steak, with a fried egg, plantain and yucca hash.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? The building sustained extensive damage in Hurricane Irma. Restoration work has begun, and as each section is complete, tHE BUtCHERY will start to expand their offering. By the middle of the year, expect the outside patio to be open, serving breakfast, brunch and lunch.

They are keeping plans for dinner under their traditional flatcaps for now, but you can expect it to be something the island has neverseen or tasted before.

For regular updates, follow tHE BUtCHERY on FB@thebutcheryaxa, WhatsApp a request to join their mailing list on 264-476-4476, or go old school visit them in store for a chat.

Hours Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm.

Salting the meat and special cuts.

anguilla life, page 28

Out & About

WeÂ’ve been collecting photos posted on FB, Instagram etc by Anguilla visitors for over a year now to share with readers. These superlative sunsets, rainbows, beach scenes, drone views, people, places and things confirm so well how Anguilla is looking better and better. 2017 Hurricane Irma did leave her marks but congrats to Anguillians who worked so hard to rebuild, renew and beautify.

Our thanks to Hugo Leon Alvan (6 pix), Bow Green Villa, Frank Costin, Nori Evoy, Brenda Garrigan, Jennifer Morris, Timothy Tarpey and Simona Vogel (5 pix) for capturing so much so well and sharing their creative camera work.

anguilla life, page 29

Long and ShortTerm Rentals Real Estate & Land Sales

Recently moved to Lower South Hill, Anguilla, BWI

Tel: (264) 498-3200 Fax: (264) 498-3201 Email: sales@islanddreamproperties.com www.islanddreamproperties.com

FOR SALE ANGUILLA ANIMAL RESCUE FOUNDATION a US 501.c.3 charitable organization

(264) 476-2731 Please support AARF, a non-profit volunteer-run organization, funded entirely by private donations.

Grand Outlook Castle

Our objectives include:

#1 Guest Rated Villa in the caribbean -VRBO Buy 100% or 40% of #1 Castle you can enjoy truly care free.

Spray/neuter of dogs and cats Dog/cat adoptions (local and international) Pet care education at local schools

Contact via e-mail only for any and all information...

alegaleg@gmail.com

Visit our shelter on Long Path Road in Sandy Hill or our website (www.aarf.ai) to learn how you can get involved and/or donate.

CMYK Anguilla Spring/Summer 2019 Page 30 Image Size: 8 x 11 Cut Size: 9 x 12

pioneers

anguilla life, page 31

A Style and Legacy of Leadership

The late Clive Davidson Carty was a son of the soil. His academic journey took him through the Road School in South Hill, Valley Secondary School and the University of the West Indies. He taught at the West End Primary school for a few years, then in 1965 attended St. Kitts Leeward Islands Teacher Training College, graduating in 1967.

His s interest in politics grew and in 1969 he was awarded a scholarship by the British Government tenable to University of the West Indies, Jamaica s Mona Campus to pursue a BSc in Government. Graduating in 1972 with Honours, Carty returned to hold a variety of key posts in Anguilla s civil service. Beginning as an Administrative Cadet, he was involved in the Separation Movement, working cloely with the local leaders of the day. This post later became known as Administrative Secretary, then Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Clive Davidson Carty Natural Resources, Tourism and Lands.

(April 19, 1943-September 13, 2016) While PS with responsibility for Tourism in the late 70 s, the Government of the day opted to venture into Tourism as a route to developing Anguilla, economically. One of the key craftsmen of the development plan adopted, he brought all the thoughts and ideas into harmony for decisions and actions with a focus on high end, low volume tourism.

In 1980, he ventured into the service industry as General Manager of the Cul de Sac Hotel. In August 1983, in partnership with an American and an Irish investor, he opened the Mariners Hotel, which he managed up until its closure after Hurricane Luis in 1995. He then opened Anguilla Travel Services in The Valley.

Back in the early 90 s An early Chairman of NBA, the Anguilla Tourist Board and Anguilla Public at the wheel of his boat, the Princess Soya. Service Commission, Carty s main literary work included thesis writing on the Revolution while at Mona and a colourful book, featuring tourism projects and island scenes. An avid, self taught photographer, active in church and community life, he long served as a Sunday School Teacher at Zion Methodist in his North Hill neighborhood, creating a bond of leadership among young people there.

Aunty B.....Queen of Shoal Bay

An active member of the women s craft group, Aunty B often participates in island craft shows. (Joan Richardson photo)

At the age of 94, Mrs. Maryllia Martin, affectionately known as Aunty B , is the undisputed Queen of Shoal Bay ! Many characterize this extraordinary lady as loving, faithful, resilient, independent, fearless and creative. She faces each day with an infectious optimism and unwavering faith in her God. No denying that these tenets of her character were the instruments she used to navigate the seas along the eventful journey of what has been a long, rewarding life.

From a young age, Aunty B engaged in the arts. As her passion intensified, her skill set sharpened and the arts became her trade

and livelihood. A seamstress too, she made bridal gowns and clothing for many in Anguilla and later Tortola, where she took up residence. As the saying goes, there s no place like home , so Aunty B returned and held dear her beloved Anguilla.

She began to create dolls and jewelry representing her island pride, in national colours, as well as with local shells and seeds.

Shoal Bay became her studio...her place of rest, work and play.

This is her happy place. Shoal Bay literally gives her life and despite many family protestations, she continues to travel almost daily to her oasis. This determination forced her family to realise that if it keeps her going, keeps her happy and keeps her with them, then go she may!

Aunty B is the pillar of her family; her 6 children, 14 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. They refer to her as the Blessed Matriach the epitome of strength, endurance and innovation, an admirable symbiotic relationship. They are each other s lifeline and find great joy in the moments spent together. Over the years, Aunty B has become a Shoal Bay community staple. Not only well known for her beautiful craft, but also for her outpouring of love to all she encounters.

Locals and visitors gravitate to her captivating personality, and the reach of her charm transcends age and race. She can be seen as the Gatekeeper of Shoal Bay beach daily (except Sundays) sitting under a tree sharing love and selling her craft.

Visitors delight in her welcoming pleasantries, marvel at her handcraft and take back to their homelands many fond memories of their visit and their encounter with the Queen of Shoal Bay .

anguilla life, page 32

poetry

2018 Malliouhana Poetry Competition Neighbours Beyond Storm dealt with experiences from natural or manmade hazards, personal or social friction and the impact and opportunities for healing and recovery. Poetry on the Page winners, out of 22 entrees: Rhonica Connor, Juniors and Claushaun Richardson, Adults.

Alexis Ryan took 1st place in the Performance Poetry category, which drew 10 competitors whose personally-themed poems described facing and overcoming adversity.

after the storm by Alexis Ryan

Cold and bewildered i stood there Watching the damage this monster of a storm, this hurricane had caused.

Roofs torn asunder Debry every where Buildings falling in like there were made of lego blocks Sadness and confusion Surveying the destruction Still trying to find the sunny side of this situation The silver lining but coming up empty Trying to comprehend why nature Dealt us this punishment And what did we do to deserve it What was her plan.

Nature always has a plan.

After the storm I kissed by mother goodbye as i left for work, in wrinkled clothes and dirty shoes knowing that no one would care.

As the jones were washed away by the hurricane I drove a car that in the past i would have been ashamed to I spoke to people who had never tell me good morning before I waited in line for supplies omitting my foolish pride as the store shelves were being emptied and survival was necessary.

I hung out til fore day morning in the midst of perfect strangers charging my phone and catching free Wi-Fi Trying to send messages to love ones away to tell them hey i am alive After the storm many nights we listened the sound of silence before the generators came We huddled around the candle light before it became solar Children played newly discovered games like freeze tag, street cricket, dominoes and cards that were not trapped in an electronic device.

After the storm Strangers greeted each other asking about the damages they each sustained and genuinely seemed concern.

Employers treated their workers with empathy as workers finished early to spend more time with family While some showed no sympathy as they were, there were profits to be made.

Mother countries came looking for her children As she bid them to come back again But sometimes you can t go back Because home is where the heart is And their heart is here After the storm Nearly 6 months later I realised Maybe we were not punished Maybe we were cleansed So that we could appreciate life more Simpler So we could love more So that we appreciate what we have and not take it for granted So we can realise that all along this was natures plan

Temporary Neighbours by Rhonica Connor Imagine there was a time when neighbours were strangers, Avoiding, ignoring each other s existence While living in such a close distance.

Imagine there was a time when our islands seemed separate Only because governments didn t want to seem desperate.

Hardships were hidden, It was as if help from one another was forbidden.

And at last, these issues have passed Yes, it took some rain, wind and bad weather The way how hurricane Irma brought us together.

The masks of pride have fallen to the floor, And ever so often there is a neighbour knocking at the door.

Our region is a region once again And our people are a people once again But, to myself I must ask, How long do you think this will last?

Seven months later and we re almost back on our feet Then will we still be one?

Even after facing the great feat?

Many hurricanes have come and passed So have our kindness, and it overflowed fast The truth and the fact is, we ll be back to our starting stone, Each island, each family back on its own.

So again the question is asked, Are we really neighbours of all forms?

Neighbours beyond storms?

Can we rely on each other in bad fortune and good?

Is our connection really understood? No. Caribbean people, let s act as one, live as one, be one.

Temporary neighbours no longer, let s unite even stronger!

Brothers

by Claushawn Richardson

You are my brother Albeit from another mother.

If I eat, you eat, if I drink, you drink.

You always have a seat at my table And if you were in need of a helping hand, I am not a selfish man I am always here to aid you.

But you allowed yourself to be blinded by other people you were aligned with You allowed that constellation to cause our separation.

Because of their high status they gained your veneration.

I gave you ten dollars, one of them gave you a hundred And in your mind that put them in a league I was not.

But he had a thousand 10 dollars was all I got.

I was living beyond dreams. You were living beyond means.

Which made you move out and buy a new house that was upscale Placing burdens on yourself you couldn t hold up well Your relation in the constellation was dependent on what you had Which had you in the fashion houses popping tags You even took a loan to buy a jag...

But circumstances are the climate of our reality And the winds of vanity brought clouds of calamity.

The rains of consequences dampened your ego, which was momentous, And as the sun of opulence vanished and the darkness of tribulation set in As your star dwindled, your so called friends disappeared.

There was no room in their constellation for you to fit in...

You no longer had the objects which mattered to them And they changed up on you with the change in the winds.

But in your darkest hour I showed up because of who you are to me Even though you were foolish, For me to turn my back on you was hard to me I endured the darkness with you because I believe in your brighter day...

And if it s anyone that can survive it s you, I know you can find a way.

Whether rain, snow or sunshine, good or bad times No matter what the trouble, I ll be there in all forms Because we, my brother, are neighbors beyond the storms.

anguilla life, page 33

quick tips Who Mosquitoes Like Best

Swatting madly, you notice others seemingly completely unfazed. Could mosquitoes prefer to bite some people over others? YES, mosquitoes do exhibit blood-sucking preferences! One in 10 people are highly attractive to mosquitoes, reports Jerry Butler, PhD, Professor Emeritus at the University of Florida. But it s not dinner they re sucking out of you. Female mosquitoes males do not bite people need human blood to develop fertile eggs. Apparently, not just anyone s will do. Although researchers have yet to pinpoint what mosquitoes consider an ideal hunk of human flesh There s a tremendous amount of research being conducted on what compounds and odors people exude that might be attractive to mosquitoes, says Joe Conlon, PhD, technical advisor to the American Mosquito Control Association. With 400 different compounds to examine, an extremely laborious process. Researchers are just beginning to scratch the surface, he says.

Scientists do know that genetics account for a whopping 85% of our susceptibility to mosquito bites. They ve also identified certain elements of body chemistry that, when found in excess like people with high concentrations of steroids or cholesterol on their skin surface attract mosquitoes. That doesn t necessarily mean that mosquitoes prey on people with higher overall levels of cholesterol, Butler explains.

These people simply may be more efficient at processing cholesterol, whose by-products remain on the skin s surface. Mosquitoes also target those who produce excess amounts of acids, such as uric, explains entomologist John Pesky mosquitos certainly do seem to come in flocks. Small children especially prone to scratch bites, Edman, PhD, spokesman for the are high priority on keeping them away. Avoiding chemicals like DEET, present in many commercial Entomological Society of repellents, according to Green Your Body, one of the most widely used ingredients in store-bought America. These substances trigconventional bug sprays for personal use is N.N-Diethyl-m-toluamide; aka DEET, designed to repel, ger mosquitoes sense of smell, rather than kill, insects. Used annually by an estimated 1/3 of the US population, DEET is approved by luring them to land on unsusthe US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but is a known eye irritant and can cause rashes, pecting victims. soreness, or blistering when applied to the skin. Additionally, linked to neurological problems; according Attraction begins long beto the EPA, at least 18 different cases of children suffered adverse neurological effects, as well as a couple fore the landing. Mosquitoes can of adult deaths. Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that DEET causes diffuse brain smell their dinner from an imcell death and behavioral changes in rats. Shown to have a negative impact on wildlife and water sources pressively up to 50 meters. in production and during use, DEET is toxic to birds and aquatic life. DEET has been found in Larger people tend to give off approximately 75% of U.S. water sources, including the Mississippi River. As with practically every more carbon dioxide so mosquihousehold item, natural bug spray can be inexpensively and naturally do it yourself made at home taking toes typically prefer munching just seconds to mix up and varied on what s available. on adults to small children. PregWellness Mama Essential Oil Bug Spray nant women are at increased Essential oils: choose from Citronella, Clove, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Cajeput, Eucalyptus, risk, as they produce a greaterCedar, Catnip, Lavender, Mint. Fill 8 oz. spray bottle half full with distilled or boiled water. Add natural than-normal amount of exhaled witch hazel to fill almost to the top band 1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin if using. Add 30-50 drops of essential carbon dioxide. 20% of people oils to desired scent. The more oils, the stronger the spray. Favourite mixes include: Rosemary, Clove, will be feasted just based on Cajeput, Lavender, Cinnamon and Eucalyptus works great and smells good too! their blood type and some mosFresh or Dried Herbs Bug Spray quitos can sense which blood Peppermint, Spearmint, Citronella, Lemongrass, Catnip, Lavender, etc. Use at least one herb from the will be sweetest. Movement and mint family. Boil 1 cup distilled water and add 3-4 T dried herbs in any combination...peppermint, heat also attract mosquitoes, so spearmint, catnip and lavender is particularly good. Also throw in a couple of dried cloves. Mix well, stake out a chaise lounge away cover and let cool (covering to keep the volatile oils in!) Strain herbs out and mix water with 1 C witch from the beach volleyball team. hazel or rubbing alcohol. Store in a spray bottle in a cool place (fridge is great) Use as needed. Added Mosquitoes sense movement bonus: it smells great, is cool and very refreshing to the skin! and head to you panting from Super Strong Vinegar of the 4 Thieves Repellent exertion, as the smell of carbon Fair warning: this stuff stinks when wet, though the smell disappears as it dries. It works incredibly well dioxide from heavy breathing including in the woods or in tick infested areas. It is based on a recipe that was supposedly used by thieves draws them closer as does lactic during the Black Plague internally and externally to avoid catching the disease and to keep flies and other acid from sweat glands. Repests away. According to legend, they survived and it definitely makes a great insect repellent these search has also shown that days! It s also very inexpensive and the ingredients are likely in your kitchen! Put a 32 oz. bottle Apple people who drink even the smallCider Vinegar, 2 T each of dried Sage, Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme and Mint in a quart or larger glass est amount of beer are more jar with airtight lid. Seal tightly and store on counter or somewhere you ll see it easily. Shake well daily likely to be bitten than someone for 2-3 weeks. Strain the herbs out and store in spray or tincture bottles, preferably in fridge. Dilute to who opted for harder alcohol half with water in a spray bottle and use as needed on skin when serious bug control is needed! Note: like tequila or even Pinot Grigio.

This very strong mixture has antiviral and antibacterial properties and can also be used as a tincture Beer can make you a mosquito for any illness. For adults, dose is 1 T in water several times a day, for kids over 2, dose is 1 tsp in water magnet #1 several times a day.

Mosquitoes have been Other Simple Insect Repelling Ideas around for 170 million years * Add Vanilla extract to either of the above recipes, or just rub on the skin. You can also mix vanilla with and there are more than 175 witch hazel and water for a spray version. * Rub Lavender flowers or Lavender oil on skin, especially known shrewd species in the on hot parts of body (neck, underarms, behind ears, etc) to repel insects.* Rub fresh or dried leaves of U.S. alone. These pests clearly anything in the Mint family all over skin to repel insects (Peppermint, Spearmint, Catnip, Pennyroyal, aren t going to disappear any etc or Citronella, Lemongrass, etc). Basil is also said to repel mosquitoes and fresh Basil leaves from the time soon, but you can minimize garden offer great success! their impact.

All-Natural DIY Bug Sprays That Do Work!

anguilla life, page 34

restaurants Recommended Dining For Every Traveler by Shannon Kircher

In 2016 I shared a post outlining my top dining, so a 2019 update is due! Famed for its culinary scene but with dozens of restaurants available within Anguilla s 33 sq. miles, which is right for you? The foodiest of foodies would be perfectly content spending weeks dining on island. We find that most guests prefer a mix of flavors and vibes... a few fine-dining experiences alongside more casual spots and local establishments. Things in Anguilla have changed. Irma passed, closing a number of hotels and restaurants in her wake, but also created an opportunity for new restauranteurs to jump into the scene. This season is an exciting one, where many tried-and-true favorites have reopened and a go-to fan favorite has brought a beautiful new menu to the playing field. Some of my recs have stayed the same, which is a testament to consistency with some of the island s all-stars, but there are some newbies that are shaking up the scene. Here s some Anguilla dining inspiration.

BREAKFAST is always a rather elusive meal. Visitors staying at hotels and resorts often have it on site, but what if you want to venture out? There are a few options for splurge-worthy breakfasts with a view, and a few that allow for a casual morning budgetfriendly bite. Inclined to start with a sweet treat? Head to VILLAGE BAKEHOUSE or LE BON PAIN, both get rave reviews for their baked goods. Something a bit more substantial? Try TASTY S traditional breakfast options on the main road. Looking for a view with your morning meal? 3 options come to mind, all with different vibes. ROY S BAYSIDE GRILL, our go-to for Christmas morning to sip rummy egg nog overlooking Sandy Ground with our family (Roy s does egg nog best!), but every other day they offer up a substantial breakfast menu in a family friendly setting. If you want to practically eat on the sand, STRAW HAT is your go-to. It s as close as you ll get to Meads Bay, and their breakfast offerings (I can never seem to order anything but the avocado toast) bring Caribbean twists to an excellent spread. Lastly, let s talk FOUR SEASONS, where I recently shared breakfast with a gaggle of women for a baby shower. Served at COBA on the bluff top with sweeping views, you ll have a choice of a la carte fast options or a drool-worthy buffet and the views are a spectacular morning meal accompaniment.

FOR A BEACHY LUNCH BREAK. A great lunch can take many forms: toes-in-the-sand BBQ, fish sandwiches on the beach, a to-go picnic at your favorite hidden cove, but the most fabulous of island lunches imaginable becomes strategic for many. It s a great way to try a new restaurant (in some cases, places that may a bit beyond budget for dinner), while scoping out different beach scenes. Natural bias aside, one of my favorite lunch spots for both food and setting is STRAW HAT on Meads Bay. Their Asian salad is my new daily go-to and their spicy fish sandwich may be the best iteration on the island. JACALA is on many must-visit dinner lists, but if I m being honest, I prefer it for lunch. The setting on stunning Meads Bay is breathtaking, and the colors are made more awe-inspiring when the sun is shining. Equipped with a bottle of crisp rosé and a coursed out lunch that will transport you to the South of France, there s hardly anything better. Don t miss tuna carpaccio to start, and be sure to try their spicy rum for a zesty finish.

FOR SMALL PLATES. I m a huge fan of small plates, especially as far as groups are concerned. They re a great way to sample a range of flavors in just a few bites, plus there s typically something to satisfy all palates and dietary restrictions. SAND BAR, has always been our go-to and consistently puts out a range of excellent small plates in a gorgeous setting. We re thrilled to have an island institution bringing small plates to their menu too! BLANCHARDS, historically a go-to for fine dining experiences, has revamped their menu

and jettisoned the formality of years past for a more approachable feel with innovative shareable plates that are knocking it out of the park. On our first night, 4 of us shared upwards of 10 plates-all wonderful-and still had plenty left to try on a future visit. Grilled octopus, crayfish ceviche and arancini were standouts, but everything was perfectly executed. I always enjoyed Blanchard s in past years but the Blanchard s of 2019 is slated to be one of my new faves.

FOR THE FAMILY. Dining with young children, the scene can seem overwhelming. Nest bets seem to be restaurants that serve up great cuisine, offer kid-friendly options and a setting that will allow restless little ones to run around in the sand without anyone looking twice. For a casual option, BLANCHARD S BEACH SHACK ticks all of the boxes with great inputs in a perfectly family friendly environment. Something more established? Head to SAND BAR in Sandy Ground, where little ones can play on the beach when they need to release some energy. The small plates are great for sharing and there s plenty of kid-friendly options! In Island Harbour, ARTISAN PIZZA our go-to for delicious thin crust pizza with a menu s thick as a book. We ve tried a range and they re all wonderful, plus super thin which means you can order a few to share!

FOR BBQ. Rice and peas , together as a single side, is technically Anguilla s national food but it would be a sin to eat it solo. The everpresent BBQ, typically chicken or ribs, is the island s national de facto cuisine, and there s no shortage of great places to get your fix.

For lunch, SUNSHINE SHACK has become the island favorite, where you can cozy up on Rendezvous Bay with your choice of ribs, chicken, whole snapper or lobster along with a host of traditional sides. Cocktails will set you back $10-$12 each; food ranges from $15$25 depending on your order. Chairs are included so take a couple of towels and spend the day in the sun. KEN S in the Valley, operates on the Strip (a small stretch) under a tent on weekends. Watch their team work and you ll see the machine in action: Racks and racks of ribs are lined up on one super-sized grill, with chicken roasting away nearby. A line of locals, tourists and expats will attest to the fact that these guys do it right, and have been for years. A heaping container of chicken, ribs, or a combo of the two will typically cost you less than $10, and you can finish it off with rice and peas, or with their buttery garlic bread.Order to go, or sit at their picnic tables to take it all in.

FOR ROMANCE. When it comes to romantic dining locales, there s absolutely no shortage here. With stunning, perfectly lit beachfront restaurants serving up world-class cuisine, how do you possibly pick? Well, the beauty is with so many favorites, it s hard to go wrong even for the gourmands in the group. For a seaside dinner a deux, try JACALA for authentic French cuisine, DOLCE VITA for Italian (the gorgonzola gnocchi is a must) or STRAW HAT for upscale Caribbean fare. MANGO S, following the 2017 destruction of Hurricane Irma, reopened mid November.

FOR A PRE-DINNER COCKTAIL. As far as picturesque bars are concerned, my new favorite is QUINTESSANCE HOTEL, or THE Q as it s locally known. Their biggest downfall is that they don t have a proper cocktail menu for inspo, just a spirits list, which makes them more of a go-to for classic cocktails vs. quirky craft varieties. Fellow greyhound lovers, you ll be excited for the freshsqueezed grapefruit juice. With lush landscaping, a carefully curated art collection and gorgeous sunset views, it s a luxe escape for happy hour. One of my new favorites stops for a special experience with guests in town, the drink selection is one of the best. With offerings like spicy Daiquiris on the rocks, a Mojito selection, Martini Mondays and great takes on classic cocktails, there is something to satisfy everyone s boozy desires. An after-dinner spot? FOUR SEASONS SUNSET LOUNGE a fan favorite for pre-dinner cocktails as well.

The setting brings some serious wow-factor, and while the drink prices aren t for the faint of heart, nightly live music or DJ really maximizes the experience.

anguilla life, page 35 FOR A BURGER & BEER. Okay, let s be honest: I don t drink lists, VEYA challenges the notion that you have to be water beer and am a vegetarian so I defered to my more omnivorous front to be a fabulous 5-star setting whose reputation precedes half for insight here. There s no clear winner, but there are two itself. En route to Sandy Ground, not on the water, but this that reign supreme. ROY S, which got a facelift and unveiled its setting is one of the most unique and captivating. Diners sit new look in December, serves a range of beers, including outside along a wood balcony surrounded by landscaping or Heineken on tap. Intrigued with the newly-released AXA Ale? inside in a warmly lit space. Their shrimp cigars are a go-to Head to FERRY BOAT, where owner/operator, Christian appetizer, and their tuna entrée, served with pineapple and a McClean, is an AXA Brewing Company partner. rum sauce for the ultimate island inspired meal, is a standout.

FOR GREAT LOCAL CUISINE. Excluding great roadside The Newest. When I wrote my post in 2016, I was coincidentally stands and food trucks, there are a few restaurants that have anticipating the opening of a Marc Alvarez-helmed restaurant really positioned themselves as must-tries for the average tour- during his revival of the restaurant at Cove Castles. Chef Marc ist. My favorite seems to change annually but in the last couple has opened his new wood burning cuisine concept, EMBER. A of years E S OVEN has really risen to the occasion each time friend of ours, but that doesn t color my view on his talent. In my we ve dined there. Service has always been a bit on the slower side mind, he s amongst the most talented chefs on the island, with (island time) but food has always been exceptional. When in a passionate approach to gastronomy and a truly innovative take doubt, go for the coconut crusted grouper. My favorite newcomer on melding cuisines. Let s just say his menu has shaped up to be is SHARKY S. Pleasantly surprised from our first meal... now one of my on the island favorites! For those that have frequented one of our favorites for a casual dinner. Headed by Lowell Hodge the island for years, Ember is where Luna Rosa and AXA Seafood (formerly of Blanchard s), the food is great and the menu is House once resided. continuing to expand. Quite literally based in his front yard, Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust tables on his front deck, to us, that s added charm. We ve never Effect, formerly The Traveling Scholar. Since 2009, she has had any diners disappointed with their experience. blogged her international escapes as an expat in Europe and FOR A UNIQUE SETTING. How can you not be intrigued by the Caribbean. She now calls Anguilla home where she is the a restaurant best described as a treehouse-style setting. Where Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort and on seaside dining is often a prerequisite on diners check- the Board of Directors of the Omololu International School.

Off-island for a time, we decided to replace our usual personal reviews here with those of some visitors. In addition to Shannon s excellent coverage above and our Colorado couple s detailed first hand experiences in Visitor s View, these Trip Advisor dining comments are definite well put reads!

The overall improvement on Cap Juluca was also great, new pool by the new restaurant by the reception area offered a lovely selection of bites (also available to order from the beach). Our first night, we dined at CIP S - absolutely loved the octopus salad so much we ordered a second. (sandyhan013, NYC) SHARKY S lobster stir fry ... indeed a special meal. Fresh lobster out of the shell and mixed with light soy sauce and veggies. I wished we had split the dish, except my husband ate every bite! The pumpkin soup is a must and the mango snapper was very good. (travelleroct, CT) FAUSTINA S KITCHEN is excellent. We went for breakfast, johnny cakes stuffed with scrambled eggs and bacon. OMG just great (CTtraveller rocy) I used GERAUD S CATERING for the first time and it s defiantly not the last. A fan since South Hill days, food continued to be fantastic at 2nd location next to the wine store, but flow was sub-optimal and not as easy or fun to shop there. Only home delivery, his expanded menu includes freshly prepared whole meals, his fantastic pastries and breads. I ordered a mix of breakfasts and dinners (apps, mains, and sides), fresh fruit salad and some desserts using his web site. Almost immediate follow up for preparation questions, details and wanted delivery time. His kiddie menu ideal if traveling with smaller children too. Arrived exactly on time...food perfectly packaged for storage and reheating and his credit card processing device in hand. Quick conversation about my stay, reheating directions and he was off. No island time, no me waiting and waiting. The

whole experience could not have been easier. Awesome to sit down to a full gourmet meal on my condo lanai after a long day on the beach. Geraud, himself, friendly, tireless and full of energy...hard not to smile around him. E-mail exchanges with his wife were equally good. All was exactly as I requested and delicious. Check him out. (andrew304 Boston) One of the first places we ate in 2007 and we continue to eat at TASTY S nearly every trip. Dale Carty not only a great chef but a truly friendly guy. His seafood salad is delicious as well as filling, the fillet of fish with lemongrass is also excellent. Have had breakfast, lunch & dinner...not the same day. A great local place to eat and enjoy.(anguillaben) Driven by too many times to count, finally stopped in VILLAGE BAKEHOUSE to see what all the talk was about. Croissants to die for melt in your mouth....chocolate incredible but almond our favorite! Fresh yummy, lite, delicious key lime tart; small size spinach quiche perfect for one. Noticed locals and several Americans working on island order breakfast sandwiches, so followed their lead. Not disappointed...eggs, bacon, and cheese on ciabatta. breakfast omelets also tasty. We also bought an eclair, ham/cheese croissant, and an almond scone for a later snack. (W6823WQrobertb) ARTISAN. We craved their BLT pizza, Bacon LOBSTER Tomato that is, but they weren t offering. I guess sensing our disappointment, the waitress came back to say one lobster was left and could fix it for us.

It was incredible. Gelato and grappa for dessert. Great place, great atmosphere, great service and great people. Who could ask for more. Made for a very romantic eve-

ning. Went back during our stay and had equally memorable evenings. It s the antithesis of resort dining experience.

Q s JULIAN S gastronomic magic in a small indoor spot exudes class, immediately evoking the image of glamour and romance. Outdoor less formal bar terrace is replete with stunning, all shade flora. Service beyond caring, decidedly French menu by chef Dominique Thevenet, who knows his stuff.

Proud and happy each time he puts a smile on a guest s face, he has it in spades.

What he does with what he makes is the real magic. Sauces, purees, crusts on lamb, perfectly done vegetables, whimsical presentation all set apart his shining culinary talents. Something a bit simpler? He can cook down as well as up , to me the mark of a truly fine chef.

Then the sweet part ...decadent desserts

by Joyah, the pastry chef with the face of an angel. How she ended up here from being the British Dependency guitarist?

Took a chance, walked in, saw owner Geoffrey Fieger and told him what she wanted to do. He said to effect, go into the kitchen, look up how to make sopapillas (a favorite of his) and present to me. Hers are so absolutely divine it makes you want to shout, bye bye Johnny cakes. She s there with a sweet smile and nod, I once kiddingly mentioned the only reason I come to the island is for the raspberry sorbet. Next lunch there sat the most delicious homemade raspberry sorbet...the kid s a genius! Gift yourself with an exemplary meal replete with a fine vintage from their exclusive wine cellar. (pepper, PHL)

anguilla life, page 36

summer festival 2019 Beach. Boats. Bacchanal

Sunday 14 July Friday 19 July Saturday 20 July Thursday 25 July Friday 26 July Saturday 27 July Sunday 28 July Thursday 1 August Friday 2 August Saturday 3 August Sunday 4 August Monday 5 August Tuesday 6 August Wednesday 7 August Thursday 8 August August Thursday Friday 9 August Saturday 10 August Sunday 11 August

Miss Tiny Tott Pageant (Pre ASF Event) Grown & Sexy – All White Soca Affair (Pre ASF Event) Senior Calypso Show Semi Finals (Pre ASF Event) Opening Night & Light the Street Fete (Official ASF Launch) Junior Calypso Show Prince & Princess Show Children’s Parade & Fair Flow Soca Rave Axa Boy Entertainment Bandclash / Bandorama A & B Warm Up Race; Talented Teen Pageant J’ouvert; A & B Class Boat Race; Caribbean Beach Party August Tuesday A Class Boat Race; Senior Calypso Show A Class Boat Race; Miss Anguilla Queen Pageant Eyes Wide Shut A & B Class Boat Race and Beach Party Grand Parade of Troupes Anguilla Poker Run; Leeward Islands Calypso Competition Champion of Champions Boat Race (Official End of ASF)

J

osveek Huligar, an ambitious, active innovator, is an Anguillian true jack of trades. An accomplished stone re- storer, he worked in New York for a dozen years, including polishing the World Trade Center s Freedom Stone. Since his return home, he has been busy forming and continues to run Anguilla Access, an annual Fashion Expo, the popular Captain s Lounge, a wide variety of e-commerce marketing web sites, videos and quality special event photographs. His original little drone was probably one of the island s firsts. He also manages to hold down part-time jobs. This is also the man behind bringing talented artist Vaughn Anslyn from Nevis to paint several walls with colourful AXA scenes (see p 46) including race boats complete with crews in action. Admirably, Josveek is not only culture conscious but keen on beautifying AXA in conjunction with providing interesting locally made souvenirs capitalizing on natural resources.

Now try delicious sea salts so far in natural as well as five flavours.

His nicely landscaped tent shop on his Dad s South Hill corner property, along with bright roadside flora planted westward to the stoplight are flourishing.

His Sands and Salts started out after Hurricane Irma with hand made keychain fobs for which he created pop up shops to showcase. Now expanded into eye catching bracelets, earrings, pendants and bottle openers starring sands of many shades, and dubbed on billowing flyers as Own a piece of Anguilla .

An amazing variety of sand colours is gathered from AXA beaches

What s next? Do keep your ears open and eyes on the watch. We are confident another clever new Josveek creation must surely be on his agenda!

anguilla life, page 37

Tourism

Transforming The Anguilla Experience he new Anguilla Tourist Board Beyond Extraordinary campaign aims at sharing all the extraordinary aspects of Anguilla with both travelers and travel planners. Beyond pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters island activities include festivals, music, award winning dining, boating, sport events, off-shore cays, caves and so much more. This campaign represents a greater ATB investment in the transformation of the island s marketing to embrace digital and mobile first strategies, explains ATB Chairperson, Donna Banks. We are positioning ourselves to compete in today s tourism market, which increasingly depends on digital and mobile technology .

To strengthen and transform the island s destination to a Beyond Extraordinary five experience pillars the areas of romance, adventure, events and culture, health and wellness, and food are focused on through visuals highlighting the island and varied activities across digital advertising, search engine marketing, social media, online video and other tactics.

ATB also has a brand new web presence at IvisitAnguilla.com.

In addition to beautiful beach images and easier user navigation, the site provides such useful features as an interactive island map to quickly find the best places to eat, sleep, relax, and celebrate; a custom itinerary builder to favourite any restaurant, hotel, or activity to organize a personal travel experience; Editor s Picks with suggested itineraries for 3, 5 or 7 day trips geared toward different types of travelers.

The opening of a trio of luxury properties places the island firmly on the map for the 2019 market. The highly anticipated Belmond Cap Juluca flagship officially opened its doors December 15, 2018.

The reimagined resort features 128 elegantly appointed rooms and suites. A new era of beach-chic glamour and laid-back luxury highlights include an infinity edge swimming pool and the Arawak Spa, just steps from the water s edge with a range of Anguillaninspired treatments. British Executive Chef Andy Gaskin brings healthy, fresh Caribbean and international cuisine to the resort s new eateries including Pimms (Anguillian and International fine dining), CIP s by Cipriani (Italian), Maundays Club (juices and light bites) and The Cap Shack (beach BBQ, tapas and sundowners).

Malliouhana re-opened December 20 with new beach villas, spa and meeting space set for 2019. The sophisticated five-star 46 room resort which oozes old Hollywood, is soon set to unveil 11 new beachfront suites including four garden suites and a two-bedroom villa, a new Auberge Spa and added meeting space.

T

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, part of the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World collection, officially re-opened in December 2018 following a complete multi-million dollar after Irma transformation.

A fresh design concept has been introduced throughout along with an expanded golf programme, a new spa concept, meeting and conference space. The resort s signature Japanese restaurant, Tokyo Bay, reopened during the summer, and is now complemented by 4 new dining venues powered by the expanded hydroponic farm and under the direction of new British Executive Chef, Alan Larch. These include KazBar (Meze and North African influenced fine dining), Beach Bar (Caribbean dishes), Mosaic (all-day international cuisine) and Santorini Restaurant (Mediterranean cuisine in the Clubhouse).

The 91 spacious suites and seven villas have all been re-designed and offer stunning views overlooking either the resort s lush gardens or the beach. Other enhancements include a water park for families; a refreshed infinity pool area with teak loungers and private cabanas; a new spa concept including a programme of monthly expert-led workshops; and a new 5,000 square-foot meeting space and ballroom.

Anguilla Great House, the West Indian cottage styled hotel on Rendezvous Bay, has just re-opened and almost completed its Hurricane Irma recovery building. On Backstreet of South Hill La Vue Boutique Inn is also now welcoming guests with open arms. A short stroll from Sandy Ground Beach and never more than a 10-minute drive from other beaches, golf course and island attractions, is the perfect base to explore from.

For a more secluded base, Paradise Cove is nestled in a quiet garden just a stone s throw from two of the world s most pristine beaches. The world-renowned Carimar Beach Club, recently underwent an extensive upgrade, with spacious villa suites situated on Mead s Bay. New residential development/stylish Tranquility Beach comprising 36 luxury private residencies on a prime spot on Meads Bay, is set for completion in December 2019. The stunning new villas and condos, can be managed via a rental pool on behalf of owners and will benefit from a number of shared resort facilities including swimming pools, gym facilities, concierge, private chefs, childcare and spa services.

Anguilla may be small but some big developments are taking place. The island is set for a bumper 2019 and one of the most significant in terms of new product and improvements to the overall Tourism offering seen in over a decade!

Visit the official ATB website: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram:@Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla.

anguilla life, page 38

underwater Scuba Special

by Joanie Howard

I

have always had a great love of the ocean, since I was a small child learning to swim on the beaches of Mombassa, Kenya, to now, in my seventies as a Padi Divemaster in Anguilla. I have been fortunate to have been scuba diving in many of the world s oceans and seas, and doubly so to have ended up here in Anguilla where the diving is something very Special . You may see the odd T-shirt wandering about the Island saying Make Your Day Special that means, go diving. On the whole the diving is easy, though occasionally we can be challenged by the conditions. We dive very safely, most of the time as a group, which is unusual as most dive operators team you up with a Buddy whether you know them or not which can sometimes be stressful, as, with everything in life, there is good and not so good. However by being roughly all together there is an extra measure of safety as we all watch out for each other.

There are 9 official wreck diving sites, 8 accessible to divers. All are freighters or cargo vessels which had already wrecked themselves through hurricanes, or sometimes negligence on the shores of Anguilla. They were towed out by the Government in the 80/90 s and sunk in waters up to about 90ft off the north Atlantic coast. They have become artificial reefs with an abundance of sea life, from Sharks, corals both hard and soft, fish and creatures of all kinds, even down to some of the tiniest, Pipe Fish and nudibranchs (Sea Snails without shells). Most of the nudibranchs are a variety of Sea Goddess. One of my guests who I recently took diving with me wrote in my guest book that he had seen a Sea Goddess in brackets not Joanie .

Dive site wrecks are The Ida Maria, Oosterdiep, MV Sarah, MV Meppel, MV Lady Vie, MV Commerce, Catheley H, MV Marva W. The last wreck, I believe is only accessible with permission from The Government. El Buon Consejo (The Good Counsel), originally part of a fleet which departed from Cadiz, Spain on route to The Philippines in 1772. The 990 ton warship now rests off the coast with her cannon and cargo. Now designated an area of Historic Interest and a Marine Park, I did actually free dive on her in the early 1990 s before she was protected. For more information and to see some of her artifacts, go to the Anguilla Museum in East End. You will find out all there is to know about her.

Now to the other side of our diving. Our fantastic and beautiful reefs. They are mainly situated on the North side of Anguilla and run from Little Scrub Island to Dog Island and Anguillita. On these dives you may see the pelagics, Sharks, Wahoo, Tarpon, MahiMahi or Dorado (The Golden One) as we call them in the Caribbean, Pompano, Kingfish and if you are really lucky see or hear Dolphins and Humpback Whales. The Whales we usually see in February/March time when they are traversing from The Atlantic to The Gulf of Mexico. The Bottle Nose Dolphins come and go as they please and are always a happy and welcome sight. We see Sharks quite often, but not on a regular basis. Mostly Reef, Blacktip, Nurse and the odd Lemon Shark. Tiger and Hammerhead Sharks pass through our waters but I have never seen one while diving. We try to encourage the preservation of Sharks, which are being wickedly fished (for their fins, Shark Fin Soup etc.) to the point of near extinction in some parts of the world. I have to admit however, that some of our fisherman catch and eat them, or use them for bait in the lobster and fish pots. There s an abundance and variety of other fish, ...Barracuda (to be treated with respect), Puffers, Burrs, Angels, Snappers, Hinds, Drums, Triggers, File, Scorpion, Atlantic Spade fish to name just a few, also a myriad of small reef fish some of which are exquisite. Of the reef creatures, Lobsters (Caribbean Spiny and Slipper) Crabs, several types of Eels, Octopuses, Shrimp, Squid and Nudibranchs. I could go on and on. A lot of divers have camera and take some stunning photographs and videos which they sometimes post on social media.

We have 4 dive operators on Anguilla. Rob Wilshire of Vigilant Divers and Mathew Billington of Shoal Bay Scuba, are both excellent instructors and also take qualified divers out. There is also Karl Heyliger, another instructor, who is doing a fantastic job of introducing the young to the magic of the underwater world. He seems to have a special gift with teenagers and children (you have to be 10 years old or above to do the Padi Open Water course). Then there is Dougie, Douglas Carty of Special D Diving and Charters, who only takes qualified divers. He and his mate Patrick, an excellent team and one of the best Dive Operators I ve been privileged to dive with. All of the above operate from Sandy Ground, our main harbour. This amazing bay and beach, unusually self-cleaning by the currents, is great for swimming but especially for learning how to dive, as one can sit on the sandy bottom in 4 or 5 feet of water and really practice with equipment knowing you only have to stand up to be above the surface. There are also good restaurants and beach bars shoreline to celebrate after diving, knowing that you are one of the Lucky Ones .

Joanie Howard first came to Anguilla in 1960. Diving with Dougie (as well as the others occasionally) for 23 years, she says many wonderful people met on the dive boat year after year, all now counted as good friends. Her father retired and built his house Dolphins at Sandy Hill Bay in 1964. She built hers on the Searocks between Island Harbour and Shoal Bay East in 1989 and spends 6 months of the year here, October to April. All she can say is that in 59 years of coming to Anguilla, she never yet got on the ferry to St. Martin from Blowing Point wanting to leave.

anguilla life, page 39

useful numbers

AMBULANCE. 911 BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS. Travel Lite Anguilla, 476-9990/0999 BABY SITTERS. Cherie’s Cleaning Service, 497-5477; E & L, 497-4841; KidzKare, 584-3495; USA/CA (941) 3433068, kidzkareinfo@gmail.com COOKING GAS. J & B, 4972610; Glen Brooks, 476-6432; Albert Lake, 497-2336; Maxie, 497-2131 DENTAL CLINIC. 497-2343 ELECTRICITY. 497-5200/ 2342 (Corito Power Station 497-2891) EMERGENCY. 911 FIRE. 911 FACSIMILE.497-2501/2502 GARBAGE PICK-UP. 497-2631

HOSPITAL. 497-2551/2 HOTEL & TOURISM ASSN. 497-2944 IMMIGRATION. 497-2411/2223 JUSTICE OF PEACE. Mary Richardson, 497-6840 KENNEL.St. Maarten Veterinary Hospital, (011) 599-5- 22748 LIBRARY. 497-2441 METAL DETECTOR SERVICE. For finding lost objects in sand, even underwater, 497-2505 NOTARY PUBLIC. John Benjamin, 497-2175; Mary Richardson, 497-6840 NURSE. The Valley, 497-2702; East End, 497-4420; Island Harbour, 497-4020; South Hill, 497-6421; West End, 497-6898 OPTOMETRIST. Dr. Louis Bardfield, 497-3700

For All Your Shipping Needs To & From Anguilla

Shipping Worldwide Scheduled Weekly Service Local Support Systems Receipt Locations Worldwide Computerized Cargo Tracking E-mail: shaskins@tropical.com

Worlds Of Service Local Agents

Haskins Ltd P.O.Box 33, Anguilla Tel: (264) 497-2428 Warehouse: (264) 497-3636 Fax: (264) 497-3144

Web Site: www.tropical.com

PHARMACY. 497-2366/3836 POLICE. 911 QUESTIONS. Tourist Board, 497-2759 RADIO STATIONS. Heartbeat FM, 497-3354; Kool FM, 497-0103; Radio Anguilla, 497-2218/3619/ 3620; SOCIAL SECURITY. 497-2201 TELEX. 497-2501 TELEGRAMS. 113 UNDERTAKER. 497-2278 VETERINARIAN. Morlens Clinic, 497-4600

WATER. Charlie’s Quick Trucking, 497-4474; Island Transport 497-2646; National Trucking, 497-2559/ 3559; Vanterpool Delivery, 497-7543

Providing Anguilla with natural, herbal alternatives for over 22 years

Stop by for FREE herbal/nutritional/fitness counseling and check out our wide variety of products Landsome Road, west of the People’s Market Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 10am-5pm & by request...

Tel: (264) 497-5311/xs 584-6561 (Fax 264-497-3243) Email: simplynaturalbyinka@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyNaturalAnguilla

Holistic Support for Today’s Healthy Lifestyles

anguilla life, page 40

Visitors View 24 And Look Forward To More!

by Kate & Jim Smailer

nce we found this gem16 years ago we ve looked no further for a perfect beach destination. We arrived on the night Eagle from SJU, stayed at Cap Juluca and arose with the sun the first morning so excited. Maundays Bay was a heavenly sight spectacular turquoise water and white sand! We decided to join a boat excursion as a great way to see a lot of the island.

We first snorkeled Little Bay, then had lobster lunches, rum punches and lots of dancing at Scilly Cay. At Shoal Bay anchoring, I felt I was in the most beautiful spot I had ever been. The sand even whiter than Maundays and the many shades of blues were so mesmerizing. Several hours floating, swimming, walking and enjoying Elodias dancing and rum punches. We still keep in touch with persons we met on that excursion and to this day this Shoal Bay spot has my heart! A beach does not get any better!

Every time I return I get that same vivid feeling of sheer beauty and extreme happiness! Every visit we do return to this exact spot, set up our chairs and reconnect to our memories of Shoal Bay first time.

I remember my first Anguilla Life Magazine that Spring with the cover a Lydia Semeria painting of Sandy Ground. We loved this cover .went and found her studio and bought several pieces! I still have this and other copies a most wonderful magazine created. Our last Anguilla trip was in May 2018, our 24th stay. My memories are all very vivid and bring a smile as we never tire of this island because of its people, beaches, food and drink. These are our Best Experiences during that 10 day trip.

O

Anguilla Air Service. After a long travel from cold Colorado the red eye from Denver to Miami was delayed 2 hours making a 2 a.m. departure followed by a 5+ hour layover in freezing cold Miami. Extremely comforting to know AAS will be waiting to guide us thru the SXM post Irma arrival tent and then whisk us to paradise. We chartered our flight as we get to leave pretty immediately and don t have to worry about arriving late and missing a scheduled service. Their representatives are indeed waiting for us; we are carry on only and in 10 minutes off we go! The flight over is a quick 8 minutes and super scenic. Customs at AXA was a breeze!

Spending Time on Barnes Bay. We love Barnes Bay; the sand is a warmer color of tan, often good for shelling and so very quiet. I think it would be lovely to stay on Barnes! It is so hard for me to not get in that water!

The area immediately below the Four Seasons Sunset Lounge was extra special beautiful, the water shimmering in the sunlight. After a few hours we head to the Sunset Bar for some Pain

Killers. Not a single person at this pool, the only other lounge guest was Prince, the resident cat. What a lucky kitty. Now I know 4 Seasons reservations are tough to come by over the winter season. Post Irma, the property looked amazing, good

service, great drinks, some very good sushi and of course stunning views.

Lunches at Falcon Nest. We dined here 3 times for late lunches as we just love the casual vibe, toes in the sand, picnic tables, wonderful owner and of course the food! We devoured the grilled lobster with sides of slaw and rice

with pigeon peas. Jim enjoyed a beer and me a Mt. Gay with Fever Tree Tonic, which I provide. We made reservations and always ask ahead for the lobster lunches; they may run out of lobster but we weren t taking any chances! After our first lunch Lauren always had our drinks ready and a RESERVED sign on our table.

Dinners at Hibernia. Not really into Asian inspired food in Anguilla, but after they remodeled, we decided to give them a try. We dined there 2 evenings in the new open-air area with a lovely pool and garden so glad we did!

Hibernia is special and not to be missed; our tradition is now Hibernia our first night on the island. Mary Pat s attention

to detail is top notch, she sets a most beautiful table and their wine list is extensive along with great wines by the glass. Jim usually starts with a Chablis but Marie Pat remembered that he loves French Burgundy so upon receiving our reservation several weeks before arriving, she sent a list of not on the menu 2005s she would offer. What a treat! Raoul s cuisine is innovative, fresh and delicious. For appetizers we enjoyed the Smoked Fish with toasted homemade brown bread and a horseradish and ginger cream cheese, a Trio of Tuna prepared three ways Gravlax, Smoked and Cured, and the Sashimi Plate with Wahoo, Scallop, Crayfish and Conch. My favorite entrée? Crayfish sautéed out of the shell with vanilla, lemongrass and roasted onion and yams so tender and incredibly sweet. Mary Pat told us that this sauteing out of the shell results in a slightly different flavor and texture than the more commonly grilled version. I am still dreaming of this taste!

Of course no meal here is complete without their homemade Rum Raisin Ice-Cream served in a lovely bowl with long silver spoons to savor every luscious bite along with a sip from the accompanying snifter of aged rum.

Staying half of our time at Fletch s Cove in Little Harbour every May since visit 2004. This 1 bedroom, 3 bathroom ocean front villa has gardens, lovely breezes and stunning views from the pool and upstairs master deck. A special, well equipped property whose owners, Carol and John impeccably maintain. Working extremely hard after Irma to repair and rebuild, their place looked amazing!

Spacious, handsomely decorated, and a great place to enjoy cooking in which

anguilla life, page 41 we often do. I so love Spiny Lobster. Seems much sweeter than Maine cold water lobster. Central Little Harbour is so easy to go to east or west end beaches. The housekeeper, Cecile is the sweetest lady who takes special care of us so we feel like family!

The Master Suite on a second floor has its own deck to enjoy sunrises, morning coffee and evening stargazing.

Scoring Spiny Lobster! One afternoon lunching at Falcon Nest Jim noticed a boat come in, put lobsters into a holding trap, then return to the dock. He immediately goes over and asks the fisherman to purchase 1 or 2 lobsters. No was the answer as he would need to go back out in his boat and pull up the traps. We were so sad. Jim does not give up. Fifteen minutes later he goes back to kindly plead. Well the fisherman said You must really want some lobster goes back out and returns with two huge spinies ..score! I run over to thank him! We always drive with a cooler so in they went and off we go to our villa lobster extravaganza! Jim grilled one with fresh mango and passionfruit sauce and how delicious. You know they are fresh when they fight back. The next day he grilled the other one for sandwiches. We still had some left which we used to make the most decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese for dinner. I am in lobster heaven!

Hanging at Meads Bay and Jacala.

Meads is a most heavenly bay, calm with nearly a ripple offering a huge swath of blue, always a breeze and we did not see a single mosquito. A favorite spot the Cove between Carimar and Malli, swimming and floating you know until your fingers get all wrinkly. Each day we set up and swim at Jacala. Eli brings us cocktails and waters And t-h-e-n . there is lunch! a lunch I dream about all year! 3 lunches here with all our favorite Alain creations chilled Cucumber Soup with Yogurt and Tomato Sorbet, Tuna Tartare with olive oil and ginger, grilled Watermelon Salad, grilled Crayfish. We even took Lobster Clubs to eat on our deck at Manoah for that evening s dinner! The restaurant is busy and full of great energy with all enjoying, chatting between tables. Jacques is his usual charming self and Sharon, Charmes, Emily and Eli are crazy busy but dance the dance of service like pros.

Jacques and Alain take such pride and super care with everything they do. The atmosphere at night is different so special, very romantic and often a spectacular sunset! The white-lighted palm trees glow and dance in the breeze and white tablecloths and candles dress the tables. Alain s Snapper Ceviche with Coconut Milk and Cucumber served in a coconut shell, Calamari Risotto, the olive oil poached Mahi-Mahi with julienne vegetables in lemon grass sauce and Lobster Risotto divine!

Staying right on Shoal Bay! Our 4th stay at Manoah, the property is perfect for us. This boutique resort is new with modern, spacious rooms an on site restaurant/bar, ample cushy lounge chairs, umbrellas and a sparkling pool. The best is it sits on the most stellar part of Shoal Bay our favorite beach! We stayed in the front Liz Building in top floor centre Superior Room 302 with a huge deck to enjoy sunrises and sunsets. A short walk to the whitest sand and the most gorgeous water with many shades of turquoise. We walk to each end of Shoal Bay and this time due to Irma there were new little coves so you could continue on a little past Zemi! What a treat that we could again walk all the way down to Serenity! Shoal Bay never ceases to amaze me with its beauty and my favorite place on the whole island is the point which I walk to often.

Each morning we started the day with fresh coconut water.

What a treat so better than the bottled or canned we get in Colorado. Almost daily we visited the road side stand selling produce from Dominica. These jelly nuts or young coconuts gave us two large glasses, so refreshing and good for us!

Tropical Flower continues to have two of our favorite Chardonnays for a better price than at home! Grands Vins De France has wonderful French and Italian wines in a nice, spanking new location in South Hill with ample parking.

Rainbow Farms is always a treat. Noel and Duke actually recognized us on the road and yelled Hello! I know they meet a lot of people and we were touched they remembered us and made a point to greet. Rainbow had lots of tomatoes, great wild arugula and basil. We ventured to East End to find the new Sensational Flavours.

What a nice size farm in between planting but we still managed to get a favorite item Seasoning Peppers!

These bright red treats have the perfume of a Habanero however not the heat! Jim lightly dresses them with sherry wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper and grills them Oh so good!

Our last evening we enjoyed a villa feast! Grilled Seasoning Peppers and Eggplant, Lobster Pasta, Bread from Gerauds, left over Pizza from Cove Castles, Arugula Salad, plenty of Wine and an Amazing View!

We did try one new place for a dinner after reading stellar reviews about Cove Castles and Marc Alvarez. Jim introduced himself to Marc who was so friendly and enjoyed showing him his wood fired pizza oven and special Grillworks wood burning grill. Jim started with the fried Conch with a tangy lemon aioli then a grilled Baby Octopus over homemade Squid Ink Orecchiette. Marc has just recently opened his own restaurant, Ember in South Hill oven, grill and all we look forward to trying this next trip this coming May. Interacting with Such Amazing Locals. We feel so lucky to return to Anguilla year after year sometimes twice a year and have made many friends, both Anguilla born and raised and those who have made this their home. The people of Anguilla went through such a horrific thrashing from Irma. We are so respectful and humbled by their resilience, spirit and kindness! They worked hard and continue to work hard to repair and rebuild. We always enjoy chatting with the locals and we thank you for all you are and do.

This #1 is for you Cecile, Noel, Ronnie, Frank and his new puppy, Carrie, Jamie, Barbara, Jakita, Indra, Jüergen, Mary Pat, Raoul, Robin, Carl, Jessica, Charms, Sharon, Lauren, Warren, Eli, Beverly, Junior, Barbara, Chloe, Jacques, Alain, Emily, Donette, Natalie, Geraud, Mel, Bridgette and all others whose names I do not know, but tie our marvelous experiences all together.

Another fabulous vacation! We so love Anguilla wish it were easier to get to from Colorado!

Avid travelers Kate and Jim Smailer are passionate about food, wine, caring and appreciation of nature s beauty. Jim, head chef for 37 years at award winning Boulder Cork Restaurant, believes food is intimate. There s always something new and it is always a treat to cook on the island with different ingredients.

Kate, a classical pianist, says her trip reports/pics are her way to reflect and revisit when she needs an Anguilla fix. This quote

by John Huston read years ago in an article in Architectural Digest hangs on her studio bulletin board. living by the sea stops old wounds from hurting .revives the spirit .quickens the passions of mind and body.

anguilla life, page 42

villas One of the nicest beaches, Long Bay, is in a great location in the eastern most part of the Caribbean. If you go further east you re in Africa. Afternoons swimming and shelling on this beach, you feel like you own the world. You don t get that same feeling on any other beach on the island.

Invest In A Place You Love

Neil typically watches the money and defers to Wendy to watch the design, but Wendy says he doesn t give his creative eye enough credit. When I ask his opinion he ll say you know design, I don t know anything, but when I show him a few options without disclosing the price, visually he always comes up with the right answer. It s the same story when I ask him which pair of shoes to wear with my outfit, she quips.

Alegria is one of several on-island development projects Neil and Wendy have tackled together. They ve also joined forces with Ian Sugar George and Janine Edwards who lead architecture and design firm, Sunset Homes. We consider each other family, says Neil. Ian had laid the groundwork to purchase land on coveted Meads Bay Beach to develop a boutique condominium resort, Tranquility Beach Anguilla, and brought in Neil as a partner and to help secure the capital. In between the Four Seasons and Malliouhana and on the same beach as The Beach House (for which Ian won the International Property Award for Best Single Residence), the resort includes 15 fully-furnished, serviced units being sold with fee-simple title. turnkey management and rental services. The two couples also collaborated to upgrade vacation rental Beaches Edge Villas on Lockrum Bay, after Neil purchased the pair of side-byside villas in 2014. Post Irma, the couples, along with their equity partners, acquired shuttered Sand, Sea and Sky Villas and Santosha Villa Estate on Long Bay Beach. After a 9-month renovation the properties opened to guests in December 2018.

If you are going to invest in the Caribbean, choose a place you love, as there are easier ways to make money, says long-time entrepreneur and commercial real estate mortgage banker Neil Freeman. That s exactly what he and his wife Wendy did. The Chicago/Miami-based couple was introduced to the island during a 1994 stay at Cap Juluca. They fell in love with the beaches, food and welcoming people and found themselves returning again and again, often bringing families and friends. Eventually they built their own personal paradise, Villa Alegria, on Cul de Sac in 2008.

I remember flying in late one night and pulling into CuisinArt to be met by the doorman, explains Neil, When he opened the door he didn t say hello, he said welcome home . That s how we still feel about the island. We may live in the USA, but our home and hearts are in Anguilla.

Wendy, a certified Pilates instructor, also feels a special bond with the island with so many happy times here, but two really stand out. On our first trip, my father had recently passed away. I remember being on this beautiful beach, breathing in the salt air and thinking how much he would have enjoyed all of it. Also vivid is a sail out of St. Martin with friends Helen and Jim, docking just outside Little Bay and having it all to ourselves. I jumped off the boat and swam alone through the clearest and warmest waters I ve ever experienced. Later we docked at Sandy Ground and spent the evening at Johnno s dancing, eating and drinking. We were in the most romantic, magical place that felt like the end of the world.

Initially Neil and Wendy thought they would buy an existing home to use when on island and rent out when away. We looked at a lot of houses over a period of three years, but nothing was perfect, says Neil. Our Realtor Scott Hauser suggested building to get what we wanted and likely also save some money. The lot we chose had it all. Access to a nice beach, views of St. Martin we love and on West End where the restaurants and everything we like to do are located. The pair partnered with architect Kevin Gumbs, well-versed in construction techniques to withstand storms, and interior designer Susan Butcher. a protégé of Michael Graves who also led the design of Nevis Loving every second of it, Wendy wanted to make sure you had Four Seasons Hotel. Alegria is a well-thought out house where something beautiful to look at from every angle the ocean, every tile or light fixture was specifically selected for that pool or garden and to bring the outdoors indoors. Indoor/ wow factor. The covered portico isn t just Neil s favorite spot, outdoor fabrics ensure you can put up your feet or flop down it s his office. When it s snowing in Chicago, he ll be sitting in on a chair in a wet bathing suit. Susan took her vision and shorts and a t-shirt outside watching, listening to the ocean made it work. Wendy always says the weather on Anguilla fits and answering email on his IPad. her clothes and wanted Alegria their home to fit their lifestyle.

anguilla life, page 43

The relationship with Sugar George and Janine works well because they respect each other s abilities, don t question each other s expertise and learn from each other. Neil s strength is putting the deal together financially. Wendy knows design and what guests will want and love. Ian is the best for on island architecture, design and construction. And Janine has the tourism experience and knows how to get things done in Anguilla.

Neil and Wendy have a genuine love of Anguilla and its people and we feel the same way, adds Janine, who immigrated here with Ian in 1996 after a volcano devastated their Montserrat home. To take on projects on a small island, you have to be both personally and professionally invested, be willing to pitch in and get your hands dirty. It s hard work and takes passion and careful planning, since everything has to be imported. But even then unexpected events like a category 5 hurricane can change everything. On Meads Bay our 40-foot container of supplies and new site office were swept away without a trace. Yet despite no electricity, water or Internet, we were back working within 24 hours and ours was the first new development to break ground after Irma.

Projects of this magnitude might scare away most investors, but for Neil it s the norm. When I started my firm, Aries Capital, I was a renegade. I didn t come from a traditional mortgage banking or finance company. I did things my own way and got into fields that other people thought too complicated like tax credits, multi-layered deals, or CMBS. Being able to take risks is one of the reasons we were comfortable investing outside of the United States, he says.

The Caribbean isn t the only place Neil has taken a risk in real estate. I ve always enjoyed finding broken properties and fixing them, he explains. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina left New Orleans 100-year-old landmark Fairmont Hotel damaged and closed. Neil and his partners purchased and brought it back to life as The Roosevelt Hotel from being in dire straits to winning the award for Best Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the World.

Rebranded Long Bay Villas Sand, Sea and Sky were the predecessor to St. Regis development around the golf course, Temenos now owned by CuisinArt. Adjacent Santosha Villa Estate was the developer s former personal residence. After Irma, these properties were in need of a lot of tender love and care, so there was an opportunity to buy them at a good price and close quickly. I d always admired their style and closeness to the beach. Ian also saw the potential and with our equity partners, we acquired the properties in February 2018. After long hours put in by more than a 100 workers, we opened for festive season, says Neil.

At Long Bay Villas, windows were enlarged to maximize views, bedrooms added, cramped kitchens opened, pools made easier to get into, new appliances installed and every tile, piece of furniture, linen, and art piece was hand-selected and replaced. Now each villa has at least 5 bedrooms, spa-like bathrooms with outdoor showers

Santosha is the magnificent grande dame of Anguilla. Nestled in tropical gardens, the sprawling former personal residence sleeps 23 in a veranda-wrapped grand villa, two guest houses, honeymoon cottage and nanny-apartment -- plus a full commercial kitchen for celebrations. Not many island properties have the same stature, the thought that went into it and the collected elements, like the spiral staircase imported from Italy.

and soaking tubs, its own pool, hot tub, BBQ grill and stairs to secluded Long Bay Beach, and share a gym, group dining area, beach clubhouse bar and umbrella loungers. Combined the trio of homes can sleep 33 people in 16 bedrooms.

Also on Long Bay beach and part of the renovation is Santosha Villa Estate. Tropical gardens surround a grand villa and collection of guest houses with winding pool, hot tub, large event terrace, covered dining pavilion and beachside grotto.

Basketball hoops have been added to one of the three lighted tennis courts and the equipped commercial kitchen is ready to host weddings and events. Santosha Villa Estate can be rented with Long Bay Villas to sleep 56 with room on and off the beach for hundreds of event guests.

Neil and Wendy say they have no plans to start a new project anytime soon, but look forward to working on the longer-term Meads Bay resort and sharing their existing and new properties with guests. Other than its people, the most special part of Anguilla is its quiet luxury. There are no cruise ships, no McDonald s and it hasn t been ruined by honky tonk development like a lot of other islands. I don t think Anguilla needs high rises or casinos, but upgrades to the airport to make it easier for people to fly direct, a movie theatre done well or more music venues to showcase local artists, could be interesting additions. As a British island and one of laws, we have been comfortable investing here and look forward to continuing to do our part to preserve its beauty and support its economic success, concludes Neil.

Wanting to respect the Long Bay Villa s Aegean architecture, but soften it, durable elements were chosen that will stand up to a lifestyle lived by the pool and the sea. Many of the tables were previously bolted to the floor, and in today s world you don t want to be stiff and formal, you want to be relaxed.

CMYK Spring =_WWO\ 2019 Seaborne NEW TOP-Carimar BOTTOM Image Size: 8 x 11 Cut size: 9 x 12

anguilla life, page 45

whats new

Tranquility Wrapped In Brew his story begins years ago with well known Anguillians, close friends and longtime bartenders, Christian McClean and Kenneth Henry-Webster. Unbeknownst, both had similar dreams to one day bring out a beer uniquely brewed and dedicated exclusively to Anguilla. Kenneth married Jennifer Hayes, an annual visitor to Anguilla with her family since childhood. She became his avid dream supporter and eventually, the three of them, as friendly discussions frequently evolve, revealed their common goal. A planning process began and Ferry Boat Inn, in Blowing Point owned by the McClean family, served ideally to kick around ideas to get the project going and eventually was the setting for the opening launch.

At Jennifer and Kenneth s home in Indiana during the cold winter of 2012, a nice warm fireplace backed telephone discussions with Christian, to compose a workable business plan. One of the most challenging issues was a proper business name. AXA Brewing Company was the winner since AXA is the international code for Anguilla s airport. All of the important details were in place by early 2013 except probably the most crucial Just as soon as possible Mike, Kenneth finances . There were a few support Jennifer and Christian intend to build the possibilities but the most promising profits of the company to enable them to surprisingly resulted in failure and utter construct an on-island brewery and to be disappointment. So back to the drawing able to offer a wide craft beer selection. Keep board, hoping their exposure on the in mind and stay tuned. internet would tweak the interest of someone with some financial strength. Months passed and then years with no results and hopes were fading. Then in March 2018, Jennifer s phone rang and dejection turned into renewed hope. Mike Holzman, from Colorado, whose parents had a second home in AXA, was on the other end of the call. He had seen the AXA Brewing website and expressed interest in becoming a company partner.

Wheels turned, conference calls buzzed, a business trip to Lazy Magnolia Brewing Company in Mississippi squeezed in, brew recipe, bottles and labels decided upon. Tranquility Wrapped in Brew became the logo and the initial order to get AXA Brewing into business was transacted with Lazy Magnolia. The new Anguilla beer was labeled AXA ALE, a saison farmhouse type of brew using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, fullbodied, fruity taste.

Considered one of the oldest beverages produced by humans, ales were an important source of nutrients in the medieval world. Their highly nutritious makeup contained just enough alcohol to act as a preservative and provide hydration without intoxicating effects. Throughout the Middle Ages, ale whose brewing was done primarily by women was consumed daily by almost everyone, including children, as it was safer to drink than most water due to the hours of boiling required in production. All beers, no matter how great or small, are made from a basic combination of water, malts, hops, and yeast. For the average beer drinker, the difference between an ale and a lager comes down to looks, smells and tastes.

Ales tend to be fruity-estery; lagers are clean-tasting and frequently described as crisp. But simply put, all of the knock-on effects from different flavors and aromas to decreased fermentation temperatures arise from the different type of yeast used. From this relatively small variant comes a whole slew of changes and differences making these two beers unique.

Seven pallets with over 14,000 bottles were initially shipped to the island, introduced at Ferryboat August 2, 2018 and enthusiastically accepted by both Anguillians and tourists. Comments included really fruity, kinda funky but I like it During Summer Festival they had a Sandy Ground booth at the Captain s Lounge on August Sunday and Monday, Meads Bay boat races on Thursday and every night at Booth 22 at Carnival Village. Additional shipments tally AXA Ale now available at most Anguilla hotels, restaurants and grocery stores.

T

anguilla life, page 46 Josveek Huligar s Sands & Salts brought over multi-faceted Nevisian Vaughn Anslyn as part of a make AXA more beautiful drive. His colourful culture themed murals are worth searching for, his unique tees will be at Fashion Expo and he ll conduct a Paint It Class (sign up for both May events with Josveek). As Anslyn says, From concept to completion, this job has been most rewarding and it was my donation to the people of Anguilla. Thank-you from all!

Looking through to past salt harvesting and an Anguilla boat race mural enhance former blank walls near the Sandy Ground round-a-bout

anguilla life, page 47

Xcursions

by Laura and Roland Richardson

This page normally concentrates on visiting St. Martin/St. Maarten attractions. We are happy to share info on artist Sir Roland Richardson s recently restored Gallery just up the street from the Marigot ferry. Then we ve highlighted Anguilla s excellent children s supervised place to play, a healthy service favouring tired bodies and minds and a vegetarian s delight.

e could hardly believe that Hurricane Irma broke through the doors of our beautiful Marigot, St. Martin landmark building in September 2017.

Our 20 year devotion, Roland Richardson Gallery Museum at #6 rue de la République, was a wreck. This hardnosed, true-to-the-Earth French Creole town- house from 1847 had never lost a battle to a storm in 170 years. But this time, one ancient hook came loose on the upstairs balcony and let in the Monster Storm!

The upstairs doors to the Gallery had shattered and were strewn all over what was left of the garden. Canvases were thrown like a tornado had entered, torn with broken stretchers, cracked frames, dirty, water-logged, reduced to fabric and paint. Precious antique mahogany furniture was fractured, the 20-year old Kittitian hand-woven rugs saturated, the interior butter-yellow antique louvre doors,

stripped, dismembered and water had infiltrated, flooding down to the ground floor. We were heart-broken!

The many months following Irma brought the rainbow force of Love and Friendship from around the world which reached out to us like a giant safety net by social media.

Miraculously, through the help of family and friends, we took on the challenge, finding strength and hope to Roland can often be seen painting en rebuild step by step. plein air around St. Martin Our elegant gallery museum now beautifully restored, since mid-March has been a charming oasis of peace and harmony that is a pleasure to us as well as our many visitors. The courtyard garden is blooming with birds nesting and two stories of light-filled artworks offer hours of enjoyment.

For Spring and Summer, the Gallery is open to the public on Thursdays from 10:30am to 5pm. In an exciting, complimentary Master Class (10:30am), Sir Roland speaks on the Magic of Light and Color and paints a picture for the audience. We invite art lovers in Anguilla to join us on Thursdays . Or schedule a special appointment other days to meet the artist by e-mailing roland.laura@wanadoo.fr. We look forward to sharing our journey of inspiration and beauty, and hope it enlightens yours!

Do Schedule A Special Visit

W

Vinty s Veggies. Back Street, South Hill.

Tel. 729-2413, vhtelemaque@gmail.com. The farm with a view that delivers nature to you.

A wide, continual collection of fresh grown organic herbs, legumes, watermelon, homemade bush tees and cakes . There s even a convenient weekly home delivery Veggie Club.

YOGA WITH SAMMI GREEN Mon, Wed, Fri-Sun. 9am in the Gazebo at CuisinArt. Check in at the Spa. Mats, blocks, towel, water provided. $20 + 10% service charge. Private sessions are available too, email: anguillayoga264@gmail.com

MAGIC CITY. Long Path, Tel. 476-3278,

info@magiccity.com; 11am-7pm. Fully supervised children s playground with trilevel indoor area, video game arcade, under 3 s toddler section, trampoline, ball pit, hammocks, look outs and a spider crawl.

Open turquoise or enclosed ruby slides by the pool. Parents happily observe from the Gazebo serving wraps, burgers and sides.

anguilla life, page 48

3/19/69-ANGUILLA: Anguilla residents heckle British soldiers from a moving car as troops occupy the rebellious Caribbean island. The hoots and jeers of the populace were the only oppo- The presence of a British warship offshore doesn t alter the serene sition encountered by the invasion force. appearance of Anguilla 3/23. One of two frigates that landed a The restoration of colonial rule ended British invasion force on the tiny Caribbean island last week.

Anguilla s brief fling at independence, climaxed last week by the ouster at gunpoint of a British Foreign Office rep.

3/25/69-THE VALLEY, ANGUILLA: A group of Anguillan youngsters watch British soldiers unload supplies from a giant Globemaster which arrived here 3/24, British authorities are sending Royal Engineers to start road-paving projects and to install electricity on this hot, scrubby, 35 square-mile-Caribbean island. the San Juan Star in Puerto Rico quoted Anguillans there and in the Virgin Islands as saying that a force of Anguillan commandos were being trained on a nearby island.

r a e y r e t s Ye

3/20/69-ANGUILLA: While a youngster looks on, a British paratrooper searches two men after landing here 3/19. Ronald Webster the rebel President of Anguilla, said 3/30 he will enter no negotiations with London until British forces are removed from the Caribbean island. Webster also mapped plans 3/20 to stage a demonstration against the British occupation troops.

3/24/69-ANGUILLA: Anguillans march in a long procession during funeral for British Commissioner Anthony Lee 3/23, held to protest against the military imposition of Lee as the Queen s represebtative. Lee called in members of the former ruling council 3/24 to discuss development plans for the tiny island brought back to the British fold last week by an invasion force.

4/11/69- ANGUILLA: An angry Anguillan aims a punch at British guard outside the gated entrance to Commissioner Anthony Lee s home 4/11. After the attack, British troops with fixed bayonets surrounded the residence. An estimated 200 Anguillans besieged the Commissioner s home in the worst outbreak of trouble since the arrival of British occupation forces on 3/19.

3/19/69-ANGUILLA: British soldiers check identification of local residents at a road block, one of several set up on this small island after it was occupied by British troops 3/19. The invasion force, which landed at two points along this 15-mile-long coral island from 2 frigates standing offshore, met no resistance.

3/24/69-NEW YORK: Ronald Webster, self-proclained president of independent Anguilla, and Jeremiah Gumbs (L), an oil dealer from Perth Amboy, N.J., delegated by Webstedr as Anguilla s representative before the UN. Webster said that he fled his home island in fear of arrest by British occupation troops.

Anguilla Council April 1, 1970. Kenneth Hazell; Cornel Harrigan; Russell Webster; James Woods; Wallace Rey; John Hodge; Jack Dear, Q.C.; Emile Gumbs; Reuben Hodge; Camile Connor; Atlin Harrigan; Ronald Webster and Collins Hodge.

3/28/69-ANGUILLA: Ronald Webster, leader of Anguilla s independence movement, is given hero s welcome by a group of followers on his return to the island 3/ 27 after a visit to the UN. Webster called for withdrawal of the British troops that ended the island s brief fling at independence, but he asked his followers to welcome Lord Caradon, Britain s U.N. Representative, scheduled to arrive 3/28 to assess the Anguillan situation.

(YESTERYEAR...UPI Telephoto scans courtesy the Archives of Jeremiah Gumbs)

anguilla life, page 49 Diane Hodge Smith and Timothy Hodge, a sister-brother pair, teamed up to produce this poem. Diane began writing it shortly after the death of their mother s brother. their uncle, Ronald Webster. The Father of the Nation . passed away on December 9, 2016, on the eve of the commencement of 50th Anniversary Celebrations of the 1967 Revolution which he led. Diane has been doing extensive research into the Revolution with ambitions of writing a book. Tim is an historian, genealogist, and poet, who also plans to publish his several works. Diane s theme, based on the shown photo of Webster standing on a rock scanning the horizon anticipating the British forces invasion on March 19, 1969, and the plans to place his body in a mausoleum upon a rock overlooking Ronald Webster s Park. It was Tim who had proposed that final resting place on the rocky outcrop overlooking the park that bears his uncle name and where his words galvanized his people into action . It was Tim who Diane turned to collaborate with in completing the poem. Their thoughts and words intermingle in united effort, representative of the unity of the Anguillian people without which the Anguilla Revolution could not have succeeded.

He stood upon a rock A shepherd, watching over his flock, His right-hand salute shielding his eagle eyes Observant, his wiry frame, straight and erect For Anguilla s freedom he would give his life Anguilla s revolution he had pledged to protect.

He stood upon a rock His stare across the hazy straits Over the ocean to the South East Toward St. Kitts, were they coming?

Whitlock was ousted, he left in great haste Now Webster waited, watched, wondering.

He stood upon a rock He knew they were coming, you see Word had come, Antigua was the assembly.

Blood surged, anticipation, nerves strung high Our Revolution s demise charted by the unknown Events separated only by the ticking of the clock.

He stood upon a rock A boulder tossed up from the raging sea His pedestal forced upon defenceless Anguilla, Limestone, coral, stunted shrubs in red earth.

Would invading forces turn the soil even redder?

How long would they stay, where would they berth?

He stood upon a rock Anguilla lay heavy on his mind Where would they land, and at what hour?

Could he resist the troops when they came ashore?

What would happen to this band of pioneers,to Anguilla?

Could the people s resolve defeat Britain s military power?

He stood upon a rock Birth document near his heart, Scanning as far as the eye could see, Republic of Anguilla, he mused, must be free!

Its journey, its people, its song proclaiming its new start, We re out to build a new Anguilla, from the rags of history!

He stood upon a rock His feet planted firm, no retreat, absolutely!

From domination of any form our people must be free.

Let them come! Let them come! They will see!

We have a Council, manage our ports, our Treasury Our people must forever manage their own destiny!

He stood upon a rock Battleships were on their way Though he knew not the date nor time of day.

HE STOOD UPON A ROCK

Without communication, matters could go astray.

The French invaders had been defeated centuries before, Could Anguilla s Napoleonic armory bring victory once more?

He stood upon a rock The Revolution must not be forced off track.

He d tightened his resolve, he had ordered his troops, We re prepared, to the media, But won t spill a drop of blood The people were determined, there would be no turning back, Britain must respect the people s decision, Hold Strain! No Slack!

He stood upon a rock The men had guarded her shores well, indeed, Now divine protection was Anguilla s greatest need.

He scanned the ocean over, only ripples could be seen.

Harold Wilson s troops and London Bobbies to intervene?

Well, he chuckled, I ve got a message for the Queen!

He stood upon a rock Patriotism personified, his head held high, His heart was on Anguilla, his eye on the clock.

Solid was his stance, his faith was just as firm The time of reckoning was surely drawing nigh He thrust his arms up to his Master, his gaze to the sky.

He stood upon a rock On that day the eighteenth of March Oh, they re not coming, maybe another day We must protect Anguilla, we must! Come what may.

One last glance over his shoulder, he took to his feet Homeward bound, Island Harbour, to his family retreat.

By God! Next morning, before the break of day Fateful day, March nineteenth, nineteen sixty nine Those who weren t sleeping, eyes glued to the sky Saw that it was raining leaflets, helicopters hovered high.

The British are coming, the warships had docked, He knew for what he was looking, when he stood upon a rock!

On Christ the solid Rock he stood Stand up, Stand up for Jesus his song, Red Devils, not stronger than His Blood.

Green Berets, could not kill the revolution, Britain s might, could not stop the noble fight Of the mouse that roared, in that battle for the right.

Now he s entombed upon a rock Overlooking Ronald Webster s Park He did his very best, brought his people out Into the light, from centuries dreary and dark.

Rest on, James Ronald Webster, Father of the Nation Well done, thou faithful servant, Anguilla s greatest son!

anguilla life, page 50

anguilla a-z AIRLINES. Anguilla Air Services, Tel. 498-5922. Daily flights to SXM, charters. Seaborne, 866-359-8784, to San Juan. Sunshine Air, 584-8900/ (954) 434-8900 to San Juan, St.Thomas, Dominica. Tradewind Aviation, 800-376-7922 to San Juan.

Trans Anguilla, Tel. 497-8690, Charters and ANU & SKB service.

BANKING HOURS. 8am-2pm MonThurs; 8am-4pm Fri.

Sandy Ground

CURRENCY. $1US=EC$2.682 Notes EC $2.6882 Tvlr's Checks.

Tel.583-1795/-2188

DEPARTURE TAX. EC$53 (US$20), for adults EC $26.50 (US $10) children 5-12.

Ferry (Day trips only): EC$8 (US$3) for adults; no charge for child. under 12 years.

Professional aluminium made in Anguilla Hurricane protection Roll Up & Accordion shutters

EXTERMINATOR. Island Pest Control.

Tel. 497-2723.

email:anguillaaluminium@gmail.com

• Railings • Windows • Louvers • Staircases • Glass • Mirrors & Stainless Steel Work Serving you with the best quality products

FESTIVALS. Anguilla Lit Fest, May 16-20; Fashion Expo, May 26; Welches Fest, June 10; Rendezvous Blues Fest, June 16; Anguilla Summer Festival, July 25-August 11.

FITNESS. Dungeon Gym, South Hill, 4:30AM–9:30PM,Tel.584-6072.

FRESH FISH. The Fishery, Water Swamp. Tel. 497-3170.

GAS STATIONS. The Valley: Mon-Sat. 7am-9pm, Sun 9am-6pm; Anguilla Gases, Blowing Point: 7am-11pm, Tel. 497-6334; Shine’s West End, Tel. 4972624. 7am-7pm.

HOLIDAYS. Anguilla Day and Boat Race, May 30; Whit Monday, June 10; Celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s Birthday, June17. August Monday, August 5; August Thursday, August 8; Constitution Day, August 9.

ICE. Ashley's, Tel. 497-2641.

JUDO/KARATE. Landsome Bowl.

Mon. Wed. Fri. 6:15pm.

KEYS. Kwik Kopy, The Valley, Tel. 4972233; Island Auto Parts, Tel 497-2312.

MASSAGE. Jill Walker, Tel. 582-7780; Susi Schroder, Tel. 235-8399; Louis Price, Tel. 497-3962. Moksha House, Tel. 7294055. Deknur, 584-1717.

NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES. The Anguillian, Tel. 497-3823; The SXM Herald, 497-3138; What We Do, Tel. 4975641; True Anguilla, Tel. 476-8783; OUTBOARD MOTORS. Anguilla Techni Sales, Tel. 497-2419.

PLUMBER. Hughes Plumbing Ltd. 24/7 service, Tel. 772-3337.

POST OFFICE. Tel. 497-2528. 8am-3:30 pm Mon-Fri. RECORDS & TAPES. Ellies Record Shop, Tel. 497-5073.

SERVICE CHARGE. 10-15% added to most hotel/restaurant bills.

TYRE REPAIR. Highway, George Hill, Tel. 497-2183; Apex, The Valley, Tel. 4972497; Cannon Ball, Tel. 497-2312.

UPHOLSTERERS. Pagette Carter East End, Tel. 497-4478; Richardson's Furnniture, Water Swamp, Tel. 497-2606.

VIDEO RENTALS. Video Dynasty, The Quarter, Tel. 497-2801.

WEATHER. Control Tower, Tel. 497-2526.

X-RAYS. Princess Alexandra Hospital, Tel. 497-2551/2637.

YOGA. Anguilla Yoga, Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat/ Sun 9am, CuisinArt. Check in at Spa, walk to Gazebo. $20+ 10% svs charge.

ZOO. St. Maarten. 9:30am-6pm daily; Wkends: 10am-6pm. Tel: 599-5-32030.

Adults: (locals/ residents) $5; Non-res. $3; Sr. Citizen Res. $1, Non-Res. $2; Children 311 $3; Under 2 free; One year pass $20; O’seas visitors $10 unlimited entries while on island. subscribe to

anguilla life magazine One Year (3 issues) US$20, EC$54, UK14£ Send your cheque or money order to POB 1622, Anguilla B.W.I.

EXPERIENCE THE ZEN OF ISLAND LIVING ON ANGUILLA

Lorem ipsum

Z E NA I D A B E A C H A N D T E NN I S ES TATE FE ATURES : n n n n n n n n

Stunning Beachfront Location with Spectacular Views Private Stairway to Beach Har-Tru Tennis Court Outdoor Pool Heated Jacuzzi 3 to 7 En Suite Bedrooms Outside Dining Excellent Villa for Extended Families or Small Retreats

ZEN_AD_2018.indd 2

VISIT ZENAIDAESTATE.COM for complete details or contact Elaine Hearn at Properties in Paradise 264.235.2816

1/11/18 8:50 AM

ZEMI BEACH HOUSE R E S O RT

S PA

&

RESIDENCES

A DIFFERENT POINT OF BLUE It’s easy to fall in love with Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa _ before you even catch a glimpse of our legendary beaches. The combination of personalized service, signature Zemi Thai House Spa and superb waterfront dining allows you to fully relax and experience a different point of blue.

WWW.ZEMIBEACH.COM

INFO@ZEMIBEACH.COM

CMYK Anguilla =Z\SXQ =_WWO\ 201# OUTSIDE BACK COVER Image Size: 8 x 11 Cut size: 9 x 12

1-264-584-0001