L-R: Mr. Jameel Rochester and
Mrs. Shellya Rogers-Webster

First, it was Anguilla Beyond Extraordinary – a strategic marketing plan launched in New York City in December 2018. Its aim was to strengthen and transform the island as a destination of romance, adventure, events, culture, heath, wellness and food. Now, it is Extraordinary Eats, with the catch phrase Eat Your Heart Out.

The latter culinary promotion of Anguilla was announced on March 7, 2019, by Mrs. Shellya Rogers-Webster, Manager, Corporate Affairs with the Anguilla Tourist Board; and Mr. Jameel Rochester, Assistant Manager, Destination Experience. They gave media representatives a comprehensive run-down of low-price eating opportunities at various hotels and restaurants, as well as the Food Strip, during the period April 14-28, 2019. Their meeting was immediately followed up by a press release with insights by the Chairperson of the Anguilla Tourist Board, Mrs. Donna Banks. That press release is as follows:

The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) has announced an exciting new addition to the island’s calendar of special events — Extraordinary Eats! — A two-week celebration of Anguillian food, culture and the culinary arts. From Sunday, April 14th through Sunday, April 28th 2019, foodies seeking to tantalize their taste buds will find no better place to indulge than Anguilla.

A host of participating resorts and restaurants will offer Prix Fixe lunch and dinner menus throughout the two-week period, with a price point of USD$35 for a two course lunch, and USD$65 for a three course dinner. A preliminary list of resorts includes: the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla, Quintessence Hotel, Malliouhana, Auberge Resort Collection, Anguilla Great House and Paradise Cove, with more to follow. Participating restaurants to date include: The Place, Flavours, Blanchard’s, Ocean Echo, Sharpy’s, Tasty’s, DaVida’s Bayside Grill, DaVida’s Restaurant, Johnno’s Prickly Pear, Palm Grove, Sandy Island, Prickly Pear Bar & Restaurant, Garvey’s Sunshine Shack, Coconos, Good Korma, Ciao Café and Ferry Boat Inn.

“We are excited about this new event, which is grounded in our marketing strategy that identified cuisine as one of our brand pillars, and builds on our well-deserved reputation as an exceptional culinary destination,” said Mrs. Donna Banks, ATB Chairperson. “Travelers, today, will often plan their vacations around culinary experiences, and we are ideally positioned to accommodate these foodie enthusiasts. We are delighted with the response from our stakeholder partners, and intend to make Extraordinary Eats! an annual event,” she continued.

One of the highlights of Extraordinary Eats is Festival del Mar, the annual celebration of all things from the sea, that takes place on the Easter weekend, April 20th and 21st this year, in the beautiful fishing village of Island Harbour.

Traditional cooking and culinary competitions, deep sea fishing competitions, swimming races, volley ball exhibitions and crab races are all “on the menu” for this fun-filled celebration, along with two days of live music and boat racing, the island’s national pastime.

Ms. Donna Banks

Bar hops and pub crawls to some of the island’s most scenic and popular locales with Lively Island Tours are another component of Extraordinary Eats! A festival of local street food — Taste of The Strip – hosted on The Strip in The Valley on Friday, April 26th, is yet another of the many food events taking place. The Strip is where you will find Anguilla’s famous food trucks, and local specialties like peas soup, johnny cakes, BBQ ribs, steamed fish, oxtail stew and conch soup.

Extraordinary Eats! Comes to a climax with Anguilla’s Chefs Extraordinaire on Saturday, April 27th, an epicurean extravaganza with special appearances from Anguilla’s very own homegrown chefs who have attained international success. This grand finale event is also a Fundraiser for Anguilla’s Culinary Team, a group of extraordinarily talented young chefs, to finance their participation in upcoming regional culinary competitions. Guests will have the opportunity to sample their culinary creations and exotic cocktails, as well as contribute to a very worthy endeavor. Live entertainment, fine dining and dancing will make this elegant affair a truly memorable evening in Anguilla, and all for a good cause.

For information on Anguilla, please visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla.

Representatives of the Angulla National Trust, Department of Fisheries & Marine Resources, Customs and Divers

The picturesque underwater marine park, that adds significantly to the touristic Little Bay area, was further enhanced by the launch of an internal 100-metre-long dive and snorkel trail on Tuesday, March 12.

The trail was funded from a grant of 100,000 US dollars under the European Commission’s Best 2.0 Initiative in partnership with the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources. The EC’s fund is aimed at bio-diversity projects in the Overseas Territories. Other partners in the Anguilla project are the Reef Board Foundation, a US-based organization, and colleagues in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The project is being led by the Anguilla National Trust which was represented at Tuesday’s launch ceremony by Executive Director, Farah Mukhida, and her assistant, Louise Soanes.

A party from the National Trust, the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources and marine representatives from the Customs Department, gathered at the Crocus Bay Gazebo for the ceremony, followed by a surveillance trip to Little Bay.

The ceremony included two presentations: one in relation to the Little Bay Marine Park itself and the other on the Dive and Snorkel Trail. Ms. Soanes said the marine park was a pilot project in such areas as Dog Island, Prickly Pear, Seal Island, Sandy Island, Shoal Bay and Island Harbour. Two additional marine parks are at Junks Hole, designated for heritage beaches, and Sombrero, for heritage and ecological value.

View of Little Bay

The Little Bay Marine Park Dive and Snorkel Trail runs from east to west near “the rock jump-off” area, along the island’s coastline. The trail includes a series of fiberglass structures, filled with cement, called lobster casitas or lobster houses, mimicking artificial reefs with holes for lobster and fish spawning. They were designed and installed in August and September last year by the Reef Board Foundation.

“Three weeks after we went and checked the structures, we saw juvenile lobsters and lots of fish,” Ms. Soanes reported. “We put about sixty of these structures in the trail where you can dive and snorkel; and interspersed between the casitas are underwater information sites. You can see everything from the surface, but you can get the most out of it if you are diving.”

Both the Little Bay Marine Park and the Dive and Snorkel Trail satisfy two important aims: On one hand, Anguilla’s marine life – including lobsters, fish, coral and sea grass beds – are given opportunities to be developed and protected. On the other hand, there are substantial eco-tourism and financial benefits to be derived.

Regulations are in place to protect the island’s coastal habitats at Little Bay and elsewhere. Among them are cautions against standing or leaning on corals; breaking off live or dead corals; anchoring boats on reef or in sea grass areas; and throwing garbage, or releasing sewage, in the sea. Of course, no one is permitted to remove juvenile lobsters or fish from the artificial reef along the trail. There are also minimal fees for visiting the Marine Park and Trail, and higher fees for mooring and anchorage activities.

Persons visiting the marine park area may contact the Anguilla National Trust or the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources for information concerning the payment of fees.

Adrian T. Hazell Primary School – 1st Place

On Thursday 7th March, 2019, four students from each of the six public primary schools competed in the Primary Numeracy League (PNL) Championship. The championship consisted of three rounds. The first round focused on mental calculations where each student was asked to answer 10 computational questions. Khorey Barrett of Morris Vanterpool Primary School emerged as the Most Valuable Mathematician (MVM) after round one. The second round imitated the popular gameshow, Jeopardy, where students selected questions based on its category and corresponding value. The third and final round required students to think critically by solving math-related puzzles such as magic squares, Sudoku and decoding.

At the end of this fierce competition, Alwyn Allison Richardson Primary School placed third after an intense tie-breaker against Morris Vanterpool Primary School. Representing Alwyn Allison Richardson Primary School were Aleuris Fleming, Nikaima Medina, Samantha McCormick and Nomar Rodriguez. Valley Primary School placed second and was represented by Rohan Richardson, Ksani Browne, Zariah Roach and Kaven Liang. Adrian T. Hazell Primary School emerged as the winner, represented by Jayda Romney, Warren Buddle, Kyshaun Connor and Timothy Monsanto. These three schools were awarded oversized gifts baskets comprising of an array of math-related school supplies. All participants received math medals, packets of individual math supplies and certificates of participation.

Between rounds, the audience was given the chance to showcase their mathematical genius in the Audience Rounds. Mrs. Khon Hazell-Fleming, Mr. Shakaro Richardson and Mr. Neil Gumbs were successful in securing vouchers worth XCD $100 credit at Anglec during the Audience Rounds.

The Department of Education extends sincere thanks to the following individuals and organizations that made this event a success: students and staff of the six participating primary schools who worked tirelessly to prepare for the competition; Mrs. Shana Delaney – Curriculum Officer, Mathematics who spearheaded the competition; Mr. Colin Johnson who so skillfully moderated the PNL championship; sixth formers who assisted on the evening of the competition; Ms. Rebecca Haskins, the on-site technician; and teachers of the Mathematics , Department of ALHCS who willingly and ably recorded scores. Thanks also to the proprietors of Uneek Supplies Ltd, Exotic Group of Companies, and Anglec for their contributions towards this year’s successful competition. We look forward to your support in the future as we collaborate to promote numeracy in the Anguillian community in a positive light. The purpose of this event is an effort to help our students gain more positive experiences with mathematics, as well as to get our community and parents involved in the promotion of numeracy.

– Contributed

Members of the congregation

On the morning of Sunday, March 17th, the Dominion Faith Center, under the leadership of Pastors Jerome and Ruthlyn Harrigan, held its eighth anniversary service in a jubilant spirit of praise and thanksgiving for the faithfulness of God and His providence throughout the course of its ministry.

Eight years ago, the Dominion Faith Center was the embryonic vision of Pastor Dexter Welcome and his wife, Rochelle, who had established the charismatic ministry, amidst a welcoming atmosphere, with devout and faithful saints. Over the years, the church had developed significantly. When Pastor Welcome left Anguilla with his family, in July of 2017, he relinquished his leadership to Pastor Jerome who has held the reins since then.

Sunday’s celebrative service, with the theme: “Still Looking Unto Jesus”, featured several specialties. An anointed prayer of thanksgiving was offered by Sister Mary Walters who is a dedicated and longstanding member of the church, and a special prayer of blessings was made by Sister Michelle Daniel.

The worship team effectively led the congregation in spirit-filled praises, through the energetic singing of inspiring songs, the likes of which were: “You Wear the Victor’s Crown” originated by Darlene Zschech; and “You Still Love Me”, made popular by Tasha Cobbs. Pastor Ruthlyn also led a song of befitting testimony, “For Every Mountain”, originally performed by the Kurt Carr Singers. All these preceded the theme song for the sermon, “We are Able to Go Up and take the Country”.

Special renditions of the day continued as Bro. Shem Wills chaired a brief program, which called for more rousing items like a worshipful dance to the song “Lord You’re Holy”; the rendering of the song “I Will Trust in You” magnificently done by the children, led by young Shae Wills, and the song “Still” by the Men’s Ministry. Tim Godfrey’s “You’ve Done so much For Me” (Nara) was gracefully performed by the Women’s Ministry. Jade Laurent finally choreographed a captivating, most riveting, dance to the song, “He Turned It”, sung by Tye Tribbett.

By this time, Pastor Jerome was ready to deliver his sermon, but, before he did, he thanked and commended several of the parishioners for their longstanding faithfulness and dedication to the work of the ministry over the years. His message of encouragement bore the theme: “The Power or A Caleb Spirit.” His text was taken from the Book of Numbers, Chapter 13 and 14.

This scripture gives an account of the people of Israel’s challenge after God had delivered them from slavery in Egypt. They were now instructed by God to go up and possess the Land of Canaan — the Land of Promise.

The Pastor preached: “God had instructed Moses to prepare a group of men and send them up to Canaan to spy out the land and to see who was there and what was there. In this process, God was testing the Israelites to see how determined they were to actually possess the land that He had promised them.

“So, Moses sent twelve men, one from each tribe of Israel, as spies to assess the Promised Land. Let me remind you that there are some things that God has indeed promised us, but we must have sufficient determination and fortitude in order to possess them. We must work and fight to claim them and bring them home.

“The Christian race is for no weaklings. We wrestle not against the elements of flesh and blood. We are not fighting a physical battle, but we are battling a spiritual war. It will take spiritual strategy in order to conquer, and we will ultimately win because God is on our side. He is fighting for us.”

Pastor
Jerome Harrigan

He noted how God fought on behalf of the Israelites, even though many of the men whom Moses sent to Canaan considered themselves as insignificant grasshoppers in the eyes of the people who dwelled there. However, he applauded the faith of Caleb and Joshua who was positive in their outlook, claiming: “We are able to go up and take the country, and to possess the land.”

“The Pastor went on: “Today, I want to challenge you to take on the ‘Power of a Caleb Spirit’. The scripture tells us that Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said to them: ‘Let us go up at once and posses the land, for we are well able to overcome it.’

“So, tell your neighbor, ‘Leh we go!’. We are not afraid of any giants, for God has placed a greater spirit within us. It’s a Caleb spirit. In verse 25 of Chapter 14, God said this: ‘But because my servant Caleb had another spirit within him, and he followed me fully, I will bring him into the land where he went, and his seed shall possess it.’ It is a Caleb spirit that will say, ‘yes we are able’. It is a Caleb spirit that would not mind the giants around us.”

Pastor Jerome encouraged the congregation, on this eighth anniversary, to believe in, and agree with, the Scripture in Luke 1:37 that “with God nothing shall be impossible” for Dominion Faith Center.

Written by Staff Reporter, James Harrigan

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that, if left untreated, can lead to serious — even fatal — complications for both the pregnant woman and her developing fetus. Regular prenatal can help prevent this potentially serious disorder.

What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a condition that affects some pregnant women, usually during the second half of pregnancy (from around 20 weeks) or soon after their baby is delivered. Early signs of preeclampsia include having high blood pressure (hypertension) and protein in your urine (proteinuria). These signs can be picked up during regular prenatal visits. This is just one other reason why all pregnant women should have regular prenatal visits and be seen by qualified and experienced healthcare providers.
The earlier preeclampsia is diagnosed, and monitored, the better the outlook for mother and baby.

How do you know if you have preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia sometimes develops without any symptoms. High blood pressure may develop slowly, or it may have a sudden onset. Monitoring your blood pressure is an important part of prenatal care because the first sign of preeclampsia is commonly a rise in blood pressure. Blood pressure that exceeds 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or greater — documented on two occasions, at least four hours apart — is abnormal.

Other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia may include:
• Excess protein in your urine (proteinuria) or additional signs of kidney problems
• Severe headaches
• Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or light sensitivity
• Upper abdominal pain, usually under your ribs on the right side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased urine output
• Decreased levels of platelets in your blood (thrombocytopenia)
• Impaired liver function
• Shortness of breath, caused by fluid in your lungs

Sudden weight gain and swelling (oedema) — particularly in your face and hands — may occur with preeclampsia, but these also occur in many normal pregnancies, so they are not considered reliable signs of preeclampsia.

Who develops preeclampsia?
Any pregnant woman can develop preeclampsia but some pregnant women are more at risk than others.

There are a number of things that can increase a woman’s chances of developing preeclampsia. These include:
• having diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease before starting pregnancy
• having another condition, such as lupus
• having developed the condition during a previous pregnancy

Other things that can slightly increase the chances of developing preeclampsia include:
• having a family history of the condition
• being over 40 years old
• having been at least 10 years since your last pregnancy
• expecting multiple babies (twins or triplets)
• having a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or over

If you have 2 or more of these together, your chances are higher.
If you are thought to be at a high risk of developing preeclampsia, you should see an experienced obstetrician very early in the pregnancy – and you may be advised, among other things, to take a daily dose of low-dose aspirin from the 12th week of pregnancy until the baby is delivered.

What causes preeclampsia?
At this time it is not sure what causes preeclampsia but it is generally believed that the cause of preeclampsia involves several factors. Experts believe it begins in the placenta — the organ that nourishes the fetus throughout pregnancy.

What are some complications of pre eclampsia?
The more severe your preeclampsia, and the earlier it occurs in your pregnancy, the greater the risks for you and your baby. Preeclampsia may require induced labour and delivery.
An obstetric provider will discuss with the pregnant woman what options of therapy are best for her.

Complications of preeclampsia may include:
• Fetal growth restriction. Preeclampsia affects the arteries carrying blood to the placenta. This can lead to slow growth known as fetal growth restriction, low birth weight or preterm birth.

• Preterm birth. If a woman has preeclampsia with severe features, she may need to be delivered early to save her life and the life of the baby. Prematurity can lead to breathing and other problems for the baby.

• Placental abruption. Preeclampsia increases the risk of placental abruption, a condition in which the placenta separates from the inner wall of the uterus (womb) before delivery. Severe abruption can cause heavy bleeding which can be life-threatening for both the pregnant woman and the developing fetus.

• HELLP syndrome. HELLP — which stands for haemolysis (the destruction of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count — syndrome is a more severe form of preeclampsia, and can rapidly become life-threatening for both the pregnant woman and the fetus.
Symptoms of HELLP syndrome include nausea and vomiting, headache, and upper right abdominal pain. HELLP syndrome is particularly dangerous because it represents damage to several organ systems. On occasion it may develop suddenly, even before high blood pressure is detected, or it may develop without any symptoms at all.

• Eclampsia. When preeclampsia is not controlled, eclampsia — which is essentially preeclampsia plus seizures — can develop. It is very difficult to predict which patients will have preeclampsia that is severe enough to result in eclampsia.
Often, there are no symptoms or warning signs to predict eclampsia. Eclampsia can have serious consequences for both the pregnant woman and fetus. Delivery becomes necessary, regardless of how far along the pregnancy is.

• Other organ damage. Preeclampsia may result in damage to the kidneys, liver, lung, heart, or eyes, and may cause a stroke or other brain injury. The amount of injury to other organs depends on the severity of preeclampsia.

• Cardiovascular disease. Having preeclampsia may increase your risk of future heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease.

Treatment
Once a pregnant woman is diagnosed with preeclampsia, she should be referred for an assessment by an experienced gynaecologist.
The most effective treatment for preeclampsia is delivery. The woman with pre eclampsia is at increased risk of seizures, placental abruption, stroke, and possibly severe bleeding, until her blood pressure decreases. Of course, if it is too early in the pregnancy, delivery may not be the best thing for the baby. This often poses a dilemma for the obstetrician.

If you are diagnosed with preeclampsia, your doctor will let you know how often you will need to come in for prenatal visits — likely more frequently than what is typically recommended for pregnancy. You will also need more frequent blood tests, ultrasounds, and other tests, than would be expected in an uncomplicated pregnancy.
Your obstetrician might prescribe various medications especially anti- hypertensive medications.

Bed rest
Bed rest used to be routinely recommended for women with preeclampsia. Research has not shown a benefit from this practice – and it can increase your risk of blood clots, as well as impact your economic and social lives. For most women, bed rest is no longer recommended.

Hospitalization
Severe preeclampsia may require that the pregnant woman be hospitalized. In the hospital various monitoring will be done – and a decision would be made on the time and type of delivery.

Conclusion
Formerly called toxemia, preeclampsia is a condition that pregnant women develop. It is marked by high blood pressure in women who have not had high blood pressure before. Preeclamptic women will have a high level of protein in their urine and other symptoms. Most of these symptoms and signs can be detected during routine prenatal visits to their midwife or obstetrician. Delivery of the baby is the most effective way to treat preeclampsia. Other medications might be needed to prevent other complications.

Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.

Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-six years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5928).

The CaribWave 2019 Tsunami Exercise was held on Thursday March 14th, 2019 and focused on the potential impacts of an eruption of a underwater volcano and resulting tsunami. The exercise had several aims: testing of the CAPiT smartphone application for the Anguilla Warning System, reinforcement of the earthquake and tsunami evacuation procedures for businesses and schools in the tsunami inundation areas.

The principal participants of the evacuation part of the exercise were students from the Secondary, Primary Schools and WISE. The staff and students of schools immediately evacuated their school compounds and travelled on foot to designated tsunami assembly points or safe areas. The students at the Dove Centre at Alwyn Allison Primary School were evacuated to the assembly Site via vehicle. These evacuations were supported by the Royal Anguilla Police Force who led the evacuations and managed traffic flow in order to ensure the safety of the approximately twelve hundred (1200) exercise participants.
Members of the Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) were also on hand to aid with the evacuations and reported that the students continue to treat the annual exercise with the required seriousness, and performed “magnificently”.

Several private business institutions and hotels also participated in the Exercise, These included CuisinArt Resort and Residences and Belmond Cap Juluca.
Melissa Meade, Director of Disaster Management, stated: “The Department wishes to thank those who participated in the Exercise and those who assisted and contributed as well. Special thanks and appreciation to the Community Emergency Response teams (CERTs), the Education Sector and the Royal Anguilla Police Force who were instrumental in directing traffic and ensuring the safety of the children as they performed the evacuations. This annual evacuation exercise is important to reinforce earthquake and tsunami preparedness procedures and plans.
For any additional information regarding this exercise or earthquake and tsunami safety please contact the Department at 4972926 or at ddm@gov.ai.

Department of Disaster Management
18 March 2019
– Press Release

Hats and Heels is a non-profit organization formed in 2016, by a passionate duo, to create an outlet for survivors of domestic violence, under the theme “Women empowering women”. In the quest to fulfill this passion the idea for S.A.F.E, a domestic violence hotline, was envisioned.

Its Mission is to provide services in a manner that fosters self-respect and independence to those experiencing domestic violence and to lead the response to end the said violence through advocacy and community engagement. The objectives are

? To establish a supportive mechanism to assist survivors.
? To build individual knowledge of available services.
? To enhance networking among service providers.
? To advocate for the elimination of domestic violence.
S.A.F.E., a branch of Hats and Heels, is managed by a Board selected from supportive interested individuals and professionals in the field. It is managed as a separate entity.
The Board is as follows –
President – Jade Reymond-Richardson
Vice President – Dr Ronya Foy-Connor
Treasurer – Vyonne Brooks
Secretary – Charlene Roach
Public Relations – Stacey Liburd
Advisors – Clive Smith, Angelina Muhammed

Members – Twyla Bradshaw-Richardson, Glenneva Hodge, Roberta Rose-Collins and Rochelle Rogers
The day-to-day running of the hotline is devolved to the Coordinator who reports to the Board on a regular basis. S.A.F.E. aims to work in partnership with Government and non-Government organizations within and external to Anguilla to fulfil its mission. S.A.F.E., the Domestic Violence hotline, will provide a means for persons within Anguilla, encountering domestic violence, to receive twenty-four (24) hour support by trained individuals.
In order for SAFE to be sustainable, further support is required. You can assist by Mentoring, Volunteering or Donating. Mentors/Volunteers will be recruited from across the island of Anguilla. Individuals who are selected will be trained and supported.
Individuals wishing to donate gifts in kind and/or monetary contributions are welcomed.
For further details to support S.A.F.E., can be contacted by telephone 1 264 729 7233 or safeaxa@gmail.com.
We look forward to your support in our efforts to Stop.Abuse.For.Everyone in our community.

– Press Release

Fellow Anguillians, on October 23, 2018, I wrote to the Hon. Victor Banks, Chief Minister, regarding the proposed sale of the Anguilla Electricity Company (ANGLEC). Although Mr. Banks stated publicly that he would respond to my letter, I have not had the courtesy of a reply. The AUF administration’s proposal in 2017 was to sell the 40% of ANGLEC shares owned by the Govt of Anguilla, effectively the People of Anguilla, to raise EC$26 million to support the 2018 Budget. Hurricane Irma halted the sale, but this Government is once again pushing to sell the People of Anguilla’s shares in ANGLEC to support the current budget and satisfy the demands of the British. My concern is that ANGLEC continues to serve a vital role in Anguilla as a good corporate citizen, contributing millions of dollars to health care, education, sports, culture and community development, and should never be sold. Foreign ownership or foreign management of ANGLEC would subject the Company to a purely profit-driven model, thus reducing its commitment to developing Anguilla and its people. Jobs would be cut to decrease expenses, and management positions would be given to non-Anguillians. This would negatively impact many Anguillians, who would be unable to pay their mortgages, unable to pay for their children’s education, and in some cases, unable to feed their families. Also, the electricity rates could rise significantly since ANGLEC has a monopoly to provide electricity in Anguilla and would be beholden mainly to its foreign shareholders. The increase in the fuel surcharge last year demonstrated how severely people and businesses are affected by higher electricity bills. The increased cost of electricity could force Anguillian businesses into bankruptcy or plunge Anguillian homes into darkness.

I am convinced that we must preserve this indispensable asset for the People of Anguilla and maintain ownership. ANGLEC, owned and controlled by Anguilla is better for the People of Anguilla, now and in the future. Furthermore, I am convinced that public consultation and a referendum should precede any plan to sell ANGLEC, in part, or the whole.

Therefore, I want to reiterate my public statement that if ANGLEC is sold by this AUF administration, my AUM administration will make every effort to reacquire ANGLEC for the People of Anguilla. To this end, I have been investigating funding options and renewable energy projects which would partner with ANGLEC and ensure that the People of Anguilla retain ownership of the shares.

May God grant our leaders wisdom and guidance. God bless you and may God continue to bless our beloved Anguilla. Thank you.

Ellis Lorenzo Webster
Leader, Anguilla United Movement

Anguilla Finance is encouraged by the news that Anguilla has not been included in the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions, also referred to as the EU Blacklist. The Council of the European Union has confirmed that Anguilla has satisfactorily addressed the concerns raised in Criterion 2.2, which relates to economic substance requirements. Criterion 1.2, which states that “the jurisdiction should possess at least a ‘Largely Compliant’ rating by the Global Forum with respect to the OECD Exchange of Information on Request (EOIR) standard”, is currently under review. Therefore, Anguilla was not included on the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions published on the 12th of March, 2019.
This is a testament to the leadership of the Government of Anguilla and the hard work and dedication exhibited by the members of the Working Group tasked with engaging in dialogue with the EU Code of Conduct Group (EU). Anguilla engaged in an open and constructive manner with the EU and is continuing the work necessary to meet our commitment to meeting international standards on tax transparency and fair taxation. It is gratifying to see that the EU recognizes all the work that went into achieving this milestone, especially considering the size of our jurisdiction and its limited resources.
We are mindful that there is a lot more work that needs to be done to implement Anguilla’s commitment to meeting international standards in a number of areas. Anguilla committed to achieving a satisfactory rating by the OECD Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes (OECD) by the end of 2018. However, the review by the OECD is still ongoing. The EU has granted Anguilla an extension until the OECD completes its supplemental peer review of Anguilla in 2019.
In commenting on the decision by the EU, Mr. Larry Franklin, Permanent Secretary, EDICT said, “The political directorate in Anguilla has set the tone regarding the Government’s commitment to complying with the EU Code of Conduct Group’s requirements regarding economic substance. Anguilla not being placed on the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions is evidence that the Government has delivered on its commitment to the people of Anguilla. To be sure, more work is needed. We are committed to working closely with the EU and the OECD, implementing the appropriate reforms to ensure our compliance with international standards and protecting our reputation as a well-regulated jurisdiction.”

Ms. Fiona Curtis, Chairman of Anguilla Finance stated, “The private sector in Anguilla would like to highlight the achievements thus far. All the stakeholders in the Financial Services Industry, the Government of Anguilla, the Financial Services Commission, and the Private Sector, worked together assiduously to achieve this stepping stone”. Ms. Curtis also commented, “We are cognizant that there is still a lot of work left to be done. We are cautiously optimistic that with continued cooperation and diligence, Anguilla will be able to address any additional concerns that the European Union Code of Conduct Group or the OECD Forum on Harmful Tax Practices may have”.

About Anguilla Finance Limited
Anguilla Finance is responsible for marketing and promoting Anguilla’s financial services industry. More information can be found at our website, www.anguillafinance.ai.

– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

To diversify the economy of Anguilla and to enhance the resilience of indigenous Anguillians: Sports fishing and Deep sea fishing will be developed, marketed, licensed, and promoted by Indigenous Anguillians to ensure that a sustainable dynamic economic future can be maintained by all. Anguilla has over 212 nautical miles of Sea resources to the North, 75 miles miles to the West and the East, and 5.5 miles to the South. This vast natural resource can be utilized efficiently to develop the human resource potential, the economic base by diversification and by welding synergistic-ally conservation, sports, technology, cruise and eco-tourism of Anguilla.

Deep sea fishing is a form of angling that requires deep waters and usually takes place further away from land. The water depth should be at least 30 meters to be considered deep sea fishing territory. This fishing method is also often called offshore boat fishing, sport fishing, and big game fishing. The goal is to create a new niche of fishing that can also be used , as a marketing tool to diversify the Anguilla Tourism market, in addition to creating a new business model that does not compete with the traditional fishermen, but rather to create an entirely new economic model that can create jobs in the scientific, technical, food processing, marketing, sports tourism, charter, and day cruising industries, enhancing the Upmarket Tourism model.

Anguilla has an estimated population of 13,534 (est. December 2011). It is a middle income island with a gross domestic product (GDP) of about US$ 319.75 million in 2015. It has the second smallest economy in the OECS, and is part of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union. The economy depends heavily on tourism, offshore banking, fishing, construction and remittances from emigrants. Tourism, which has spurred the growth of the construction sector, is the main contributor to economic growth and is also the main source of employment. The fisheries sector is also an important contributor to livelihoods and the economy. It is valued at US$ 9.4 million, contributing about 2.26% of Anguilla’s GDP in 2014.

Traditionally local fishermen fish out to 40 miles, and with this proposal the waters that are greater than 40 miles from the shore will be used for Sports Fishing and other forms of Deep Sea Fishing, possibly including trawlers, long line, and other methods. The licensing regime and the operation of deep sea fishing boats will be conducted by Indigenous Anguillians who have parental heritage traced to 1967 and earlier. Conservation will form an integral part of the Anguilla Deep Sea Fishing and Sports Fishing Economic Zone proposal. The Deep Sea Fishing sector can be segregated out from Sports Fishing where catch and release programs involving large fish such as Maui Maui, Tuna, Blue Marlin will be encouraged. Safety will be of paramount importance with life vests, GPS, VMS, AIS, cell phones, life rafts, emergency telecoms, flare guns will all be mandatory for safe operating in both the Deep Sea and Sports Fishing sectors.

All persons and/or establishments (General Public, Restauranteurs, Bar Owners and Vendors) selling or keeping for sale any liquor must obtain and display a Liquor Licence. Consumers should be vigilant about checking to see if there is a liquor licence on display when visiting an establishment.

Liquor Licences are granted through the Special Magistrate’s court. The sittings for new and renewal Liquor Licences are held on the 2nd day of the first month of each quarter, or on the first workday immediately following. The next sitting will be held on Tuesday April 2nd, 2019. For those who will need a licence closer to the Carnival Season, the sitting will be on Tuesday July 2nd, 2019.

For First Time Liquor Licence applicants the following information is important to know.

You are required to:
• Make an application to the court not less than 21 days before the hearing.
• Complete the application form in triplicate, one for the applicant, one for the Court and the other for the Commissioner of Police.
• Publish the application notice in the public newspaper two weeks prior to the court hearing, providing a copy of your application.
• Affix and maintain the application notice to the door of the intended premises for the Liquor Licence between the hours of 10 am and 5 pm for two (2) consecutive Sundays prior to the court hearing.
• Attend court on the day appointed for the special hearing.
• If the licence is granted, a certificate is issued at the court detailing the particulars of the licence.

The categories for liquor licences are as follows: (All prices in Eastern Caribbean Dollars)

Wholesale Liquor Licence – $1000
Retail Liquor Licence – $800
Beer Licence – $400
Entirely locally owned Restaurant Licence – $800
Non-Local Restaurant – $1600
Temporary Liquor Licence Retail or Wholesale per day – $25
Tobacco Licence – $500

Persons who wish to have a Temporary Liquor Licence can collect and complete a form at the Inland Revenue Department and make payment to the cashier.
Those who are in possession of a Liquor Licence but wish to renew it should submit their renewal application form to the court not less than 21 days before the special magistrate’s court. The applicant is not required to attend the court in person, unless summoned by the magistrate.

Successful applicants must present the certificate granted by the Magistrate to the Inland Revenue Department for payment and processing. On receipt of certificate and payment, a licence is issued according to the particular licence required.

As noted above there are different categories of licences and persons are only allowed to sell the type of liquor for which the licence has been granted. A Beer Licence, for example, only allows for the sale of beer, ale or stout. It is important to remember that liquor licences are annual and expire on the 5th day of January every year. Fees are charged pro rata on the annual rate.Anyone who had a Liquor Licence in 2018 and is currently selling liquor should have renewed his/her Liquor Licence for 2019.

The Magistrate can refuse to grant a liquor licence if there are objections from the Commissioner of Police or any other party.There are several reasons why a licence may be refused. Persons considering getting a Liquor Licence should take note. A licence may be refused because:

(a) the premises are unfit for the purpose of the licence applied for or are, in the opinion of the Magistrate, undesirable to be licensed;
(b) the applicant is a person of bad character;
(c) the applicant, having within the preceding 12 months been a holder of a licence in any part of Anguilla, has allowed his licensed premises to become a nuisance to his neighbourhood;
(d) the premises for which the application is made are so situated that they cannot be kept under effective police control;
(e) the premises are likely to be a nuisance to the neighbourhood;
(f) the applicant has neglected to comply with the provisions of this Act in making his application;
(g) the applicant has not attained the age of 18 years;
(h) a licence previously held by the applicant under this Act in respect of premises under his own management or immediate supervision has, within the preceding 2 years, been forfeited under the provisions of this Act relating to forfeiture of licences;
(i) there are enough licensed premises to meet the needs of the neighbourhood.

The activities of those purchasing and selling liquor are governed by the Liquor Licences Act. Compliance is encouraged through monitoring and penalties. For example, it is lawful for the Comptroller or any person authorised by the Comptroller to enter and search any place for certain purpose whether licensed or not, where there is reasonable cause to suspect:
(a) that any unlawful sale of liquor is being carried on, in or at such place;
(b) that any liquor is unlawfully kept for sale or concealed in or at such place; or
(c) that any of the provisions of the Liquor Licences Act are being violated or contravened in any manner.

For monitoring and compliance purposes, every licensed dealer and every licensed person must keep a book with records of all sales of spirits in any quantity of 1 gallon or over. The book should always be available and open to inspection by the Comptroller, the Commissioner of Police and any police officer. It may be used in evidence against a licensed dealer or licensed person in any proceedings instituted against such persons under the provisions of the Liquor Licence Act or any other Act.

There are also strict penalties for not adhering to the law. Any person who sells, exposes for sale, or keeps for selling, any liquor whatsoever, without having obtained a licence as required under the provisions of the Act, is liable to a penalty of EC$9,600. There are also penalties for consuming liquor on premises not licenced for same, removing and receiving liquor without sale note and buying liquor from an unlicensed dealer or person.

Licence holders also have rights. Any licensed person may refuse to admit, and may turn out of his licensed premises, any person who is either drunk, violent, quarrelsome or disorderly, or any person whose presence on such licensed premises would subject him to a penalty under the provisions of the Liquor Licences Act.
Any such person, who, upon being requested to leave refuses or fails to do so, is liable to a penalty of $960. Police officers shall, on demand of such licensed person, or his agent, expel or assist in expelling such person, and may use force in doing so.

All persons who sell or intend to sell liquor should ensure they have a liquor licence. This is law, but it is also important for the general wellbeing of our communities.
For more information about liquor licences, visit our office or call 497-8334 or email inlandrevenue@gov.ai. We also invite you to like our Facebook page @AnguillaIRD for updates on services offered by the Inland Revenue Department.

Judicial officials from Anguilla and the region

Anguilla, which chased an Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Judge from its shabby courthouse during the island’s 1967 Revolution, but rejoined that High Court later, is now the third jurisdiction where a new and modern e-Litigation system has been implemented.

With no communication systems to speak about in 1967, but now has every social media web outlet at its disposal, Anguilla has joined the rest of the nine jurisdictions where a brand new filing, case management and court system is being implemented. The e-litigation portal will allow the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court to improve the delivery of justice to the citizens of the sub-region, and will significantly reduce costs associated with its operations across all of its jurisdictions.

The system, bearing the theme “Serving you on time and online”, was launched in the Anguilla Circuit on Friday, March 15, at the Anguilla Community College. It is already in operation in St. Lucia and the British Virgin Islands. By the end of 2019 it should be launched in all nine jurisdictions. They are the six independent states: Antigua and Barbuda; the Commonwealth of Dominica; Grenada; St. Kitts-Nevis; St. Lucia; St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and the three British Overseas Territories – Anguilla, British Virgin Islands and Montserrat.

A catch phrase for the system is that “it will provide court users and stakeholders with access to assigned services anytime, anywhere and on any device – including smart phones, tablets, laptops and desktops.”

The e-litigation software, described as “a highly-proven web-based application”, was developed by Crimson Logic Ltd with headquarters in Singapore and a branch office in Trinidad and Tobago.

All the speakers from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and the Anguilla Circuit, said they were excited about the system. Among other things, it would prevent them from moving around with bundles of case files and provide them with opportunities to access court matters even when they are relaxing or travelling away from their areas of work.

The programme for the E-litigation Launch was as follows: Master of Ceremonies and Opening Prayer: Mr. Dwayman Brissette, Information Services, Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court; Welcome: Ms. Vernette Richardson, Registrar, Anguilla High Court Circuit; Opening Remarks: Justice Shawn Innocent, Acting High Court Judge; Remarks: Mrs. Michelle John-Theobalds, Chief Registrar, Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court; Presentation and demonstration the Litigation Portal: Miss Alana Ali and Mr. Jose Cobrai, Assistant Project Manager and Project Manager, Crimson Logic respectively; Testimonial: Ms. Jean Dyer, President of the Anguilla Bar Association, and J. M. Dyer & Company, a convert of the system; Launch of the E-Litigation Portal: Mrs. Michelle John-Theobalds, Chief Registrar, Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court; and the Vote of Thanks: Mrs. Parlona Reese, Judicial Executive Assistant, Anguilla High Court.

The event was well-attended by personnel of the Judicial Department, members of the Anguilla Bar Association and visiting officials of the St. Lucia-based Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Family and friends are finally ending the extended 80th Birthday Celebrations of Mrs. Olive Hodge, Anguillian matriarch and National Heroine. Mrs. Hodge is the last remaining sibling of 8, which included the Honourable James Ronald Webster, Father of the Nation, as well as Hubert, Edith, Edris, Elaine, Ursula, and Florel (Sweety – also a National Heroine). She is the mother of six: Kennedy, Gareth, Ethne, Timothy, Benny and Diane. She was celebrated by a large number of nephews and nieces and their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as her own children, grandchildren and a blossoming list of great grandchildren.
In spite of her stated desire to not have a big celebration, plans for a birthday celebration proceeded apace, at different levels, across generations – on WhattsApp and in meetings, and in different countries. Her grandchildren let it be known in no uncertain terms, that they were in control of the process, although there were secret references to their parents for advice and sometimes peacemaking. The whole came together wonderfully in an expression of love and celebration that encompassed an unforgettable week and a half of parties, two church services, a formal dinner at Palm Grove, bonfire, games evenings, barbecues and even the christening of a great grandchild! Family members descended on Anguilla from the UK, Canada, the USA and the Virgin Islands, and friends made special efforts to join in the celebration. The exercise of coordinating dates, venues, flights, accommodations, t-shirt selections, caterers, etc., etc., and carrying it off without a hitch, was surely a demonstration of family togetherness, and of the high esteem in which Mrs. Hodge (Mummy, Tantie, Auntie Olive, Grandma, GGM) is held by all. The importance of family was a recurring theme in the songs sung, and in the sermons preached at the Church services at St Augustine’s Anglican Church on March 9th (her birthday) by Bishop L. Errol Brooks, and on the following morning at HillTop Baptist Church by her son, Pastor Gareth Hodge.

Mrs. Hodge, the Managing Director of the Anguilla Drugstore, has been awarded an MBE for Community Service by Her Majesty the Queen, and the Badge of Honour and Queen’s Certificate for her role in the Anguilla Revolution. The Anguillian, and the entire Anguillian community, extend congratulations and best wishes to Mrs. Olive Hodge – 80 and Amazing!

The relaunch of the physical presence of the University of the West Indies in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) was marked by a special ceremony for the re-opening of the Site on Providenciales on Friday, March 15, 2019.
A large cross section of the public, including the Honourable Premier, Mrs. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and other Government, Education and visiting University Officials attended the Site Relaunch/Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the Town Centre Mall.

The programme was chaired by Manager for the UWI Open Campus British Overseas Territories, Dr. Phyllis Fleming- Banks, who has responsibility for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Remarks came from Director of the UWI Open Campus Country Sites, Dr. Francis Severin, Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of the Open Campus, Dr. Luz Longsworth, Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles and the Honourable Minister for Education, Mrs. Karen Adams-Malcolm. Also on hand for the occasion, was Chair of the Open Campus Council, Her Excellency, Ambassador, Dr. June Soomer.

During the ceremony, the University paid tribute and presented appreciation plaques to former Resident Tutor, Dr. Carlton Mills, President and Vice President of the TCI Community College, Dr. Hubert Fulford and Mr. Samuel Forbes and the Ministry of Education, Youth, Culture and Library Services.
The UWI Open Campus Site was previously located on Grand Turk, before closing a few years ago. The relaunch, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth, Culture and Library Services, is in keeping with the TCI Government and the University’s commitment to improving access to tertiary education. In expressing their appreciation to the Government of the TCI, the UWI officials noted that in its new location the University is now better poised to serve its current and new students in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The relaunch activities also included the historic hosting of the UWI Open Campus Council Meeting and a Distinguished Public Lecture by Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles entitled ‘From Whence We’ve Come: The argument in support of Reparations’.

– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

Two representatives from Tottenham Hotspur in the United Kingdom are currently on a working visit to Anguilla under the auspices of the Department of Youth and Culture.
Mr. Dan Dodge and Mr. Myri Demetriou are engaged in working with Government agencies, focusing on providing training to youth mentors, sports coaches and social workers. In essence, they are conducting training for young people, in general, through education, particularly in the area of life-skills and development. An opening ceremony to a ten-day stint of training sessions took place at Le Vue Boutique Inn on the morning of Tuesday, March 19th.
Mr. Bren Romney, Director of Youth and Culture, stated: “The Tottenham Hotspur Premier League approved a grant project for Anguilla which stretches for January 1st to December 31st, 2019. During this time, there will be a series of three visits to Anguilla by Tottenham Hotspur, and this is the first. In each visit, Tottenham Hotspur will be assessing what we are doing in Anguilla in the areas of training our young people in life-skills.
“We have twenty-five persons in the first training session who are representing government and civic organizations that work directly with young people in a range of areas including life-skills, employability, values, development and such like.
“These two representatives from Tottenhan would be actually conducting ‘train the trainers’ workshops. They would train these twenty-five participants, who would then go back to their agencies and train their personnel there, whether they be program officers or support staff, so that we in Anguilla would always be providing best practices in the area of life-skills training for our young people.
“This is a very ambitious project,” Mr. Romney said, “in that we are empowering this first twenty-five, and on their second visit they would be training another twenty-five, so it is ongoing throughout the year.”

Mr. Romney said that the two Tottenham trainers will be working specifically with two designated groups of young people. He said that between 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. they would be engaged with training for persons who are involved in the job link-up program of WISE and PRU. Then in the afternoon sessions, they will be training young people involved in sports and the after-school program.

Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Cardigan Connor who has responsibility for sports addressed the ceremony by saying: “It is my pleasure to welcome Dan any Myri to conduct these life-skills training sessions for our youth. While Myri brings us his skills from teaching, Dan offers us skills from a sports and coaching background.
“All of you are here from the various spheres of mentoring, so you will understand why we are here. The interest is about our youth… It is quite interesting and

L-R Andre Collins, Bren Romney, Cardigan Connor,
Dan Dodge & Myri Demetriou

beneficial for us to have both a teacher and a coach to facilitate these training sessions. I am sure that over the next few days you would find these sessions to be indeed beneficial.”

Dan Dodge spoke on behalf of himself and Myri Demetriou. He expressed their appreciation for being involved in the training of the young. He said, “While Myri came from a teaching kind of background, I have come from a sports, coaching and mentoring background. The skills that we bring are varied. But first we want to learn from what positions the youth here are at. We will assess the needs and then make our training input.”
Mr. Romney echoed the intent of Dan and Myri by stating that they will be assessing where our youth are at and see what value they can add in passing on their skill sets and new ideas to our programs.

Written by Staff Reporter, James Harrigan

Robert L Bradshaw and Ronald Webster

Large helicopters dropped Red Devils and Paratroopers – with guns at the ready – from the early morning sky in targeted areas of Anguilla. And at Sandy Ground two battleships off-loaded more armed men and equipment. The spectacular and frightening event was the British invasion of the tiny island fifty years ago on Wednesday, March 19, 1969.

The invasion followed the expulsion of British Junior Minister, William Whitlock, who was accused of slighting Revolutionary Leader, Ronald Webster, and distributing pamphlets to the people of Anguilla – at Walblake Airport – “as one would throw corn to a fowl”. Just before the invasion, Mr. Webster had assumed the title of President of the Republic of Anguilla.

The invasion also came after the despised Robert Bradshaw, Premier of the Central Government in St. Kitts, had convinced the British Government that “gangsters had taken control of Anguilla”. Needless to say that the invasion was criticised throughout the world.

All that the neglected people of Anguilla were clamouring for was their right to self-determination; freedom from an oppressive and dictatorial Central Government whose Premier prided himself as a colonel in a Khaki uniform; a revolver at his side and driving around in a vintage Rolls-Royce.

William Whitlock

The Anguillians, led by Mr. Webster, surrounded by other persons including men and women militants, called foot soldiers and freedom fighters, were adamant in their demands for separation from St. Kitts-Nevis.

The upheaval was sparked when, following the break-up of the West Indies Federation in 1962, the larger islands opted for independence, abandoning the so-called “Little Eight”. These islands, including what was then the colony of St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla, were created Associated States with the local Governments fully in charge of internal affairs and Britain having responsibility for external affairs and defence. Anguilla, which had a long quarrel with St. Kitts, since its unpopular annexation with that bigger island in 1825, and a series of protests for separation, rebelled in 1967. Its people were fearful to live under an administration with unlimited control over them, given their bitter experience of neglect and ridicule over the years.

After 13 years “in the political wilderness” and its failure to return to the St. Kitts-Nevis Federation, Anguilla was formally separated from the rest of the state on December 19, 1980 following the coming into force of the Anguilla Act on December 16, 1980 and the making of the Anguilla (Appointed Day) Order on December 17, 1980.

The invasion has been captured in the book Anguilla’s Battle for Freedom 1967-1969, published by Colville Petty and Nat Hodge.

The people of Anguilla have long been credited for their bravery, spirit of independence and fierce sense of patriotism. The island has had a series of 17th and 18th century invasions by French invaders, Wild Irish and Dutch marauders, all of whom were put to flight with the Anguillians bravely defending their island their homeland and surviving the attacks.

Mr. Cardigan Connor

The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) is reporting its best ever performance for the month of January. Stopover arrivals increased by 22 percent when compared to its base year of 2016, exceeding the Board’s 20 percent growth target. Arrivals from the United Kingdom increased by just under 50 percent, followed by the United States (+27%) and Canada (+13%), respectively.

Hon. Cardigan Connor, Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism, Sports, Youth & Culture, has high praises for the team, and commended the staff and partners in Anguilla and those based overseas. “We’re thrilled that 2019 has got off to a fantastic start and hope this will set the pace for a great year for the destination,” noted Connor. “On behalf of the Chief Minister, Hon. Victor Banks, Permanent Secretary, Mr. Larry Franklin, and the staff at the Ministry of Tourism, we appreciate the hard work performed by the Anguilla Tourist Board, both here in Anguilla and overseas. Our global teams continue to work with our partners in the marketplace on promotional initiatives including sales blitzes and heightened public relations activities as we seek to increase our share in our main source markets, while opening up new doors.

“This success is also a result of our stakeholders and their financial investment to rebuild, making Anguilla’s restaurants, villas and hotels more spectacular than ever. Their demonstrated confidence in Anguilla and Anguilla’s tourism has resonated in the marketplace and contributed to this impressive growth. Lastly, and most importantly, I thank my cabinet colleagues and the people of Anguilla, without whose support tourism will not flourish,” he concluded.

The Parliamentary Secretary also challenged all those involved in Anguilla’s tourism not to rest on their laurels, but to remain steadfast and committed to ensuring that Anguilla remains a sought-after vacation destination.

For information on Anguilla, visit the official website of the Anguilla Tourist Board: www.IvisitAnguilla.com; follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AnguillaOfficial; Instagram: @Anguilla_Tourism; Twitter: @Anguilla_Trsm, Hashtag: #MyAnguilla.

– Press Release

Main assembly on the grounds of the Scouts & Guides Ruthwill Auditorium

Young people and adults from the Seventh-day Adventist congregations in Anguilla joined others around the world in a Global Youth Day March on Saturday, March 16.
Wearing t-shirts marked “Adopt”, the marchers pointed to the need for parents and communities to work towards eradicating violence and promoting wholesome living among Anguilla’s children. The march, in The Valley area, took in the campuses of the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School. Invited guests included Governor Tim Foy and Inspector Randolph Yearwood from the Royal Anguilla Police Force both of whom addressed the gathering on the grounds of the Scouts and Guides Ruthwill Auditorium, the place of assembly after the march. Pastor Julet Simon and other representatives from the City of Faith Church also joined the march.

Governor Foy, attired in one of the awareness t-shirts, told the marchers, sheltering under the mahogany trees from the searing heat: “I want to pay tribute to all Adventists in Anguilla, and throughout the world, for the remarkable work you do as a community, particularly your work focusing on youth. It is very, very important.” He also commended the Adventists for their kindness which resonates in the community and the region torn in many ways by strife.

The Governor took the opportunity to refer to the violence, over the weekend, in New Zealand which showed that there was a sickness of violence in society. He said it was a consequence of racism, sectarianism and prejudice which were all too common. “It is a sickness and there is only one thing to cure it, and that is the medicine of kindness,” he observed. “That’s the message of our Lord Jesus Christ. Love and kindness are the only answer.”
Inspector Yearwood spoke about current and planned efforts by the Police Force to divert young people away from crime; educating them about the dangers of crime; and guiding them towards making the right choices in their early lives. “It certainly is not difficult for any of us to recognize that the propensity and the increased level of criminal and anti-social behavior amongst our young people are on the rise,” he stated. “Therefore, as a community we have to do all that is within our power to reduce and derail the growth and involvement of our people in such behaviours.”
Earlier, the senior law enforcement official said: “On behalf of the Commissioner of Police and, by the extension the Royal Anguilla Police Force, I congratulate you on your celebration of Global Youth Day 2019, with your focus on ‘Adopt’.
“The Royal Anguilla Police Force is pleased to partner with you on such an initiative. It no doubt brings to the forefront the important role that our young people can play in our society, and the greater expectation of society as it relates to our young people.”
Two short sermons were delivered by Myah Romney, a fifth grade student at the Adrian T. Hazell Primary School, and Clayton Thomas, a fourth grade student at the Morris Vanterpool Primary School, both holding membership in the Pathfinders’ organization.

“The devil likes to whisper lies in our ears but we can look in the Bible and poke holes through every one of them,” Myah stated in part. “If you are visiting somewhere for the first time, which will be better? To wander around not knowing where to go, or to have someone take you around and point out all the best spots? The devil wants us to think that the word of God is boring, but with God as our guide we can enjoy the best that this life has to offer. God only wants the best of you. God has a plan for you and me.”
The other student, Clayton Thomas, began his sermon this way: “Ecclesiastes chapter 12 verse 1 says: ‘Remember now thy Creator in the days of your youth while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shall say I have no pleasure in them.’
“What does God want us to remember? Parents, God wants you to remember that Proverbs chapter 22 verse 6 says: ‘Train up a child in the way that he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.”’

In wrapping up the event, Pastor Trent Berg put it into perspective. “The Seventh-day Adventist Church, world-wide, has a Youth Ministries Department,” he explained. “It decided that it wanted to engage the senior youth of our Church – those between the ages of 16-30 – in a day of service to the community. The theme for this year is ‘Adopt’, and it was determined that our youth here should adopt the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School’s campuses in Anguilla and so, as part of this week, they served breakfast to the students at each of the campuses. Today, we had a march that led us to the different high school campuses, and others, where prayers were offered on behalf of the educators, students and their parents.
“What is happening today is that everywhere around the world, where there is a Seventh-day Adventist Church, this kind of activity is taking place – not particularly the prayer at the school, but adopting some institution, person, animal or beautifying a place.
“All the photographs that were taken today are uploaded to a common site where all the young people of the various Churches, around the world, will be able to see what other young people from similar congregations are doing.”

L-R Pastor Trent Burg & Governor Foy

Pastor Berg added that the event was being followed with an Adventist Youth Week of Prayer. In Anguilla, this included three out-door services: the first at South Hill; the second at Rey Hill; and the third at Island Harbour.
As part of Saturday’s Global Youth Day initiative, the youth of the Church, on Friday March 15th, conducted a motivational session for Form 6B students before serving them a nutritious lunch. This activity was in keeping with the Global Youth Day format which had prescribed that they adopt a patient, an orphan, or a community. Addressing the students were Mrs. Arianne Smith, Ms. Simone Edwards and Mr. Stedroy Hodge.
In addition to adopting the Form 6B students, the church’s youth also held motivational sessions with the PRU and WISE students earlier through the course of last week.

Anybody who attended the swearing-in ceremony for the second Anguilla Youth Parliament, on Tuesday, March 19, was undoubtedly highly impressed by the persona, delivery and commitment of the young men and young women who took their oaths of office and allegiance. The well-attired youngsters, drawn from the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, seemed to represent the cream of the island’s youth, giving relief and hope to the large gathering that when our present leaders have gone, the future leadership of our beloved island will find lodging and promise in tomorrow’s new leaders.

Certainly, the Government officials, led by Chief Minister Banks, did a fine job not only in welcoming them to the parliamentary process, but instilling in them the seriousness of the occasion – that it was not a play event but in fact a real life leadership engagement. Not only are they to hold the Government accountable, on various issues of governance for the next three years of their appointment, but to put forward the views and interests of their peers, and the island’s general citizenry, in the strongest fashion. It is hoped that their concerns, aspirations and views on national issues, and those of other young people they represent, will be taken on board by the Government – and all and sundry – and incorporated in the governance of Anguilla. If not, the Youth Parliament will fail to accomplish its mission – through no fault of its own.

The young parliamentarians were both assertive and convincing in their brief statements, attracting resounding applause from their attentive listeners. They certainly demonstrated that all is not lost in Anguilla and that, despite some wayward youth in our community, there are many noble and ambitious young people destined to success and leadership. The Department of Youth and Culture, which continues to distinguish itself in promoting the wellbeing of our youth, ought to be complimented for its choice and training of the members of the Youth Parliament.
The swearing-in of the Youth Parliament has come at an opportune time. It is when preparations are being made for the 2020 general district elections, in the seven constituencies, and the island-wide voting for four candidates – the latter, perhaps, a fraction of what may be a larger number of candidates. The electioneering campaigns, and the issues at stake, should be of much enlightenment to the young parliamentarians who now carry the same titles as Chief Minister, Deputy Governor, Ministers, First and Second Nominated Members, Parliamentary Secretary, Speaker and Deputy Speaker held by the Government officials, making up the Executive Council and the House of Assembly. The issues raised on the political platforms should help to guide their own ideas and actions, but there will be a need to carefully decipher truth from fiction; reality from deceit; and leadership skills from mere politicking and opportunism.

There could be no better time than now to involve our youth in the leadership of Anguilla for several other reasons. The island has reached a point where there are advanced constitutional plans involving new, brighter and more responsible ideas of governance; where there is a greater emphasis on social and economic development; and where the full thrust of the Anguilla Revolution – conceived and followed through over a half century ago, and the ultimate vision of our forebears – must find real meaning and fulfillment. The burden of that vision lies on the shoulders of tomorrow’s leaders – hopefully many of those in the current Youth Parliament.

At present the future of Anguilla, though now threatened and obscured by various challenges, appear to be bright. It will take commitment, resolve and hard work to accomplish the task and mission before us. In order for the island and its people to be well-positioned to meet the demands of the future, and those of the new generations of Anguillians, we have to begin from now to work towards that goal. Despite the many challenges facing us, it is an exciting time to lead Anguilla and to be counted among those taking the brunt of that responsibility.

Ms. Aurjul Wilson

With a year or so left for the general election in the seven constituencies and the island-wide voting in Anguilla in 2020, the Supervisor of Elections is getting busier and busier – and by next week the training of Returning Officers and other election officers will commence.
The preparatory work is being carried out by Supervisor of Elections, Ms. Aurjul Wilson, who, among other things, is awaiting the approval of the Government’s 2019 Budget to obtain funds for some additional equipment. On Monday, March 18, she spoke in an interview with The Anguillian newspaper which covered some of the main election matters, as well as her recent trip to the British Virgin Islands where she gained insights into similar electoral arrangements.

“We are moving ahead. On Friday, March 15, I was summoned to Executive Council and the topic was the draft Elections Bill. They went through the proposed Election Bill line by line to see whether or not it was what the Government wanted,” Ms. Wilson reported. “I was invited because I needed to explain what the process currently is – where I was in terms of preparation and any difficulties I may have.

“My major concern was the intervening time between the passing of the law, and preparations to facilitate it to acquire any additional equipment I need and to have the budget appropriations made. As you know, the budget is yet to be approved but it will not have the correct figures for the Central Electoral Office. Although there is nothing that I can say officially, I have been advised that I can commence working towards the necessary equipment and the manpower required.

“I can tell you that we will have advance voting which does not require any constitutional change. I think the Government’s concern is not to announce changes without having received the necessary constitutional go head. Hopefully, we will complete the consultations for the Bill to go to the House of Assembly by or after April 10. Internally, I have to get additional equipment and manpower to facilitate the advanced voting. It is where you would have the infirmed and persons over 70 years, as well as nurses and doctors and the essential election officers, who will not be easily available to stand in line on polling day.

“I am anticipating that the advanced voting will take place on the Thursday before the elections on the Monday. But before the advanced voting, persons would need to apply to the Central Registration Office because we will have to vet the people who are going to vote. Once they are qualified, are a police officer, a nurse, doctor, emergency medical technologist, physically incapacitated or over 70 years old, they will be given a card in addition to their ID card. That voting will take place in the House of Assembly.

Tabulation Machine
& Storage

“It will take a similar form like when nominations are being done with all the Returning Officers present except that there will be two ballot boxes –one for the district voting and the other for at large voting. The hours for the advance voting are 9 am to 2 pm. Once those polls are taken, they are locked away in safe place until the Monday elections when those votes will be put into the district and at large boxes for counting in the various districts. Because we are such a small community, unlike some places where the advance ballots are counted first, we will just add the ballots to the district boxes and the island-wide boxes respectively for the general counting.”

The Supervisor of Elections continued: “What we will be doing differently from the previous elections [in 2015] is that we will be counting the votes at the respective districts. That will be good because people in the community will get in on the excitement because not everybody can come to a central location. So we will be counting in all seven districts. We are working out the logistics regarding how we can stream the ballot counting from each district. We will be doing this via social media basically. Of course there will still be the overall tallying of the votes where traditionally the Department of Information Technology disseminated the information.

“When the polls close at 7 pm persons will have an opportunity to refresh themselves, and within half-an-hour we should start counting the ballots. I don’t see us going beyond an hour to count the votes in the smaller constituencies. When we finish there, we should know who would have won in those districts before proceeding with the counting in the island-wide district.”

The rest of the interview with Ms. Wilson continued as follows:

What about the counting of the island-wide ballots?
That counting will take place at a central location.

Have you learnt anything from being in the BVI for the island-wide voting and counting?
Yes, absolutely. I think going there was probably one of the most productive and informative things that can assist locally. First of all, the BVI legislation basically mirrors that of Anguilla. When I found out that the BVI was implementing a number of new initiatives that we in Anguilla were contemplating for the 2020 elections, I thought it was a great opportunity for me to travel there. The Governor’s Office and the Government of Anguilla funded the one-week trip.

“There were many things like the situation in Anguilla, yet dissimilar. For instance, before the night of the elections the Supervisor of Elections was there from one o’clock. I got there at 2.30 because they sent someone to pick me up at 2 o’clock, and I was there until 10 o’clock the next night. They had manual voting but electronic tabulation using the DS200 machine which is what we will have for the island-wide tabulation.

Tell me what the DS200 machine will do for voting in Anguilla, and how it functions.
It will make the tabulation of the island-wide ballots easier and quicker. The Returning Officer will place the island-wide ballots through the DS200 machine which will capture who was voted for. It will record the information on a flash drive which will be read by a computer, creating a report.

How advanced would you say are your preparations for elections?
It is a lot of work, but I am glad that we started early. I have started training. I met twice with the Returning Officers, and on Wednesday, March 25, we will start our first meeting with our Election Officers. We need to go through the new legislation. About 90-95 percent of them would have worked with elections before. The training will continue during the rest of the year.

What would you say is the highlight of your work as Supervisor of Elections?
I think it is the ease with which we can vote with no more waiting in long lines. Last election we had ink for voters to dip their finger in. There will be no ink this time as we have a more sophisticated system. I want the voting to be simple, and even fun – as opposed to having it long and boring. Persons should come out to vote early.

Meanwhile, how are voters responding to the need to register to vote?
People are coming in for the registration cards and I think, as of today [Monday, March 18], 72 persons picked theirs up. You have to sign for your card. Nobody can take it for you. Some people asked me when the last day is. Don’t wait until then. Come and get it. It is your card.

What if a person lost his or her card?
The initial card is free. There is a fee to replace it – that is the cost for reproducing the card. If you lost it and want to replace it, you have to pay for the replacement. Nobody can impersonate you because we have your information.

Do you see the coming elections exciting?
Yes. There will be a change in the system and that is what makes it exciting. As I told my staff, our biggest frustration now is acquiring the equipment. This includes polling booths and new ballot boxes. Instead of using those heavy ones, some of which have termites, we want the ones that are light-weight and collapsible. We want to buy things that can be easily stored and could last much longer. We will use some of the old boxes, along with the new ones, because we will need them for both the district and island-wide voting.