Happy 40th Independence Day! by Government of Saint Lucia

Issue 19 | 23 Feb, 2019

Building Resilience

OUR SAINT LUCIA www.govt.lc

Bi-monthly Progress Report from the Government of Saint Lucia

Happy 40th Independence Day!

CONTENTS

Come see our Police at their best in the Military Parade

Strides of Unity brings communities together

23 Feb 2019

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5 Mr. Independence debut a success

6 Legacy Calypso rocks the house

10 A new Miss Independence is crowned

8-9

ANNOU WE-Y INDEPENDENCE PARADE

Show Your National Colours, Your National Pride!

or the 4oth time in our history, the national ﬂag of Saint Lucia, designed by the late Dunstan St. Omer will be hoisted at midnight on February 21, at the waterfront in Castries, as we celebrate a milestone in our history. And, what a celebration it is turning out to be as Saint Lucians at home and abroad revel in activities for Independence 40 So far, the island has been swept by Independence fever, with a number of activities including the national prayer and fasting, the Military tattoos in Soufriere, Vieux Fort, Dennery and Gros Islet, the Mr. and Miss Independence pageant, featuring contestants from all over Saint Lucia and so much more. And yes, there is so much more yet to come throughout 2019. But for now we highlight the major activities in February in this issue, as we prepare for the grand linchpin on February 21 and 22. The call is for each and every Saint Lucian to play our part in this grand occasion.

The diaspora is also on board, with a number of activities this weekend into next week, including ﬂag hoisting, concerts, dinners and galas. London, Martinique, French Guiana, Toronto, Atlanta, Florida, Washington, Connecticut, Boston, New York City are just some we are aware of who plan to celebrate Independence 40 in a big way. And so the call is for each and every one of us to be on board with the celebrations How can you do this? Apart from attending the activities, (many of them are free), you can wear your national colours, support the local entrepreneurs selling broaches, pins, ties, T-shirts; bearing national emblems, decorate your homes, cars, business place, oﬃces, schools, community and encourage radio and TV stations to play more Saint Lucian music and local programming and so much.

Let’s be all in this Independence 40 – “nou tout ansanble!”

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2019: A Year ofVoice Celebration from the Chair

resident of the Senate Hon. Jeannine Giraudy McIntire is the Chairperson of the Independence 40 Committee. She shares some thoughts with us on the activities for the grand celebration.

“It is an honour to be serving as Chairperson of the Independence committee and I must first thank the Government of Saint Lucia and by extension the People, for reposing such confidence in me. I would also like to thank my team and other committee members, for all of the hard work which has gone into and continue to be put in, for all of the Independence activities this year. “We would like to thank the business community, the schools and others who have taken time to decorate and turn our island into a sea of festivity. “As you are aware, this Independence 40 is a year- long celebration. We launched on December 12, 2018 at the Derek Walcott Square and events will culminate with a thanksgiving church service at the St. Lucy’s Church in Micoud on December 12, 2019. “The theme for Independence 40; “All in, Our Journey, Our Future” finds the activities planned embracing this, by involving Saint Lucians at home in every community as well as Saint Lucians in the diaspora. While the committee established a number of national events, we also facilitated private activities as part of our Independence calendar.

President of the Senate Hon. Jeannine Giraudy McIntire, Chairperson of the Independence 40 Committee

“Independence 40 started in giving thanks to the Almighty, as we joined the religious community who put together a number of activities starting in January. These included 40 days of prayer and fasting and morning devotions. This will culminate on Sunday February 17, with five Ecumenical Services around the island. One will be held in Vieux Fort in the South, Micoud in the East, Anse La Raye in the West, Castries – Central and Gros Islet in the North. “The month of February kicked off with an exciting Calypso show which was a raving success. The Legacy Independence Edition on February 2 was endorsed by the Committee and we assisted the promoters in staging the event. “Since then, a number of activities have taken place including the Mr. Independence Pageant, The Miss Independence Pageant and the Military Tatoo, by the Police which were staged in different communities. “Next week, is the big showpiece and we are very excited about the activities planned as we invite Saint Lucians from all over the island to converge on the city of Castries on the 21 and the 22 of February. On the 21 there will be three stages – one at 6 pm featuring cultural performances at Constitution Park, one at 9 pm at the Sab in Vigie with the production The Saint Lucia Story and at 10 pm a third stage on Jeremie Street will feature the Best of Saint Lucia. At midnight, at the Castries Waterfront we will have the ceremonial hoisting of the flag, followed by an amazing firework display. “On the February 22 Independence Day we begin the celebration with the Military parade which promises to be sensational and grand. The prime minister will then address the nation at a separate function which will be carried “live” on Television. Then we have the grand parade, a first of its kind through the city of Castries. “As I mentioned the activities do not end there, as throughout the length and breadth of the island there will be Independence events taking place in 2019. And so, we encourage one and all to join in as we celebrate this milestone. “I now call on all Saint Lucians to come out in numbers, as we celebrate. I want to wish everyone a happy and safe independence 40 and let us all rejoice with pride our journey as we look forward to a future with much promise.” For more information visit our website www.indepndence.lc follow us on Facebook and Instagram @independenceslu40

23 Feb 2018

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Police All In For Independence 40

e have grown accustomed to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, the Royal Saint Lucia Police band and the other uniformed groups - Fire Service and Cadets, being part of the annual independence day parade. This year will be no exception, and the police command has promised a very special spectacle in observance of the island’s 40th independence anniversary. In addition, the RSLPF and the Police Band, as part of their contribution to independence 40, staged four military tattoos (drill displays) this week. The activities were decentralized, giving folks in the various communities the chance to be entertained and be a part of independence activities as the theme “All in –our Journey, Our Future” suggests. The first staging of the military tatoo was on Friday February 8, in Soufriere. There, the police band used a blend of contemporary and popular music to put on the display, which featured special antics and movements. The marching drill which started at about 6 PM also saw the band using neon and lit batons to stage the event, much to the delight of their audience. The activity was repeated on Sunday February 10, this time in Vieux Fort, on Wednesday February 13, in La Resource, Dennery and Gros Islet on Friday February 15. At each event, scores of persons including children turned out. The RSLPF and the police band will also be a part of the raising of the National Flag, come midnight on February 21. This activity will be held at the Castries waterfront. Then on February 22, the police and the uniformed groups will participate in the annual parade at the Sab, Vigie, Castries. They will also lead the National Parade dubbed Anou W’ey from 1 pm, which will feature floats, stilt walkers, sports groups, cultural displays, aspects of carnival, innovation and more. This explosive display is the first of its kind and is expected to light up the city as we celebrate Independence 40.

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Honouring a Sports Legend A

dedication of the Mindoo Phillip Monument and hand-over ceremony of the “Monument” to the Castries Constituency Council, took place at the Mindoo Phillip Park on Saturday the 9th of February, 2019. The ceremony formed part of activities for the observance of Saint Lucia’s 40th Independence Anniversary. The captivating monument was designed by the late Stanley French. Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet, Leader of the Opposition Phillip J. Pierre, Mayor of Castries Peterson Francis, President of West Indies Cricket Dave Cameron, Government and sporting officials, as well as members of the family of the late Mindoo Phillip, were all in attendance. Dunstan duBoulay who chaired the monument committee addressed the gathering Saturday. “We decided that considering the monumental contribution Mindoo made in the field of sport in Saint Lucia, and that very little recognition had been forthcoming, we felt we had to do something to preserve his memory and his legacy,” duBoulay said. Francis “Mindoo” Phillip, regarded as the greatest Saint Lucian Sportsman of his time represented Saint Lucia in Cricket and Football in various capacities, with distinction for over twenty-five years. In 1947, he was first picked on the island side, to 1955 where Mindoo shined as a batsman. Mindoo also represented Saint Lucia at football, both as goal keeper and left wing. It was Mindoo who was responsible for Saint Lucia’s first

win over Barbados in 1963. After retiring from cricket Mindoo Philip served sports in Saint Lucia as Referee, Umpire, President of the Marchand Football League, Grounds man and National Cricket Coach. In March 1979 following Saint Lucia’s Independence in February of that year, Victoria Park which was at the time the island’s main sporting facility, was renamed Mindoo Phillip Park in his honour. Upon his death, he was buried at the park. Also speaking at the auspicious occasion on Saturday, was Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet. “A monument to Mindoo Phillip existed at this site before, but it appears that its upkeep left a lot to be desired and I’ve always said that the true characteristic of a country is how we remember our elders… and I think that this monument to Mindoo is a great statement by Saint Lucians”. The ceremonial ribbon cutting was performed by Hellen Phillip, widow of the late Mindoo Phillip. “I am overwhelmed by this awesome and imposing structure built in honor of Mindoo. On behalf of my family and myself, I would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the Government of Saint Lucia, the late Stanley French and Dunstan duBoulay and the other members of the monument committee for the eﬀort in creating this magniﬁcent monument,” Mrs. Phillip said. The handing over of the keys to the monument to the Mayor of Castries, Mr. Peterson Francis, was done by Mr. Dunstan duBoulay.

Prime Minister Hon. Allen Chastanet with Mindoo Phillip’s widow Mrs. Hellen Phillip

A fitting monument to great Saint Lucia sporting hero

23 Feb 2018

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Youth Making Strides for Independence 40

he National Youth Council staged an amazing participatory event as part of activities for Independence 40. One of the ﬁrst major activities planned by the NYC as part of Independence celebrations was a baton relay called “Strides of Unity”. The event took place on Sunday, February 17, from 7 am in the morning. Jeshrun Andrew explained the concept: “Strides of Unity” as it was called, was an island-wide baton relay which started at the Governor General’s residence from 7 am. What we did was that we had special youth unity baton crafted in the shape of Saint Lucia. At a short ceremony at the GGs residence he wished the young people all the best and from there this baton made its ways around the island, down the west coast, up the east coast into Castries then Gros Islet. We got the communities involved along the way and we used runners, walkers, cyclist, skateboarders, bikers and even some disabled persons on wheelchairs to take this baton around.” NYC members, town and village councils, sports groups and other organizations were used to mobilize their communities, with a strong support being shown for the initiative along the route. In addition, each community raised banners, proclaiming their unity against a common cause. Some of these included uniting to put an end to gun violence, uniting for improved health care, uniting for an end to child abuse, another for peace and unity and one for the gender equality and support for our women and girls, among other causes. Along the way a number of notable sportsmen and women joined in the relay as well as some parliamentarians. These included the MP for Soufriere Herod Stanislaus, the MP for Dennery North Shawn

Edwards and the MP for Gros Islet Lenard Montoute. Letoya Charles, Public Relations Officer of the NYC, spoke to the media this week following the event. “On behalf of the team, the NYC and the young people, I would like to say a special thank you to the Governor General Sir Neville Cenac who made it his duty to be there and to be on time to pass on the baton to the first young person to start the event. And I am proud to say that history was made with our youth independence baton relay, strides for Unity being a resounding success,” Charles reported. “We anticipated 350 participants to join in the relay but there were so many more joining us along the way in addition to the pockets of young persons and adults who came out to support. And so we are still assessing the numbers, which will be much higher than we anticipated,” she went on to explain. According to Letoya Charles, the objective was to promote unity and peace, healthy living and to foster a sense of inclusion throughout our districts. “We achieved all of this while at the same time celebrating the independence anniversary of our island home Saint Lucia,” she says. The organizers has expressed a special thank you to the Governor General, the Independence 40 Committee, the police, Joe Knows for the music, Caribbean Grains, Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority and Massy Stores. In addition to Strides of Unity, the NYC has two Youth Parliaments planned. The first will be held on February 25 with a seating of just the Lower House and another on April 8th this time with both the Upper and Lower House.

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First Ever Mr. Independence Pageant a Success!

Senator Fortuna Belrose with Mr. Independence winner Jamieson Edward representing Castries South East and ﬁrst runner up Deshawn Augustin representing Vieux Fort (far left)

ow that the Miss Independence Pageant has been handed over to the national Independence planning committee and the responsible government ministry, the original organizers decided to go for the next best thing. The idea of a Mr. Independence pageant was born out of a need that Gregory Lord of Gregory Lord Productions saw, to someday have the Miss and Mr. Independence reign side by side. And so this year, he decided that this “someday” would be, giving rise to the first male pageant. By all accounts it was a major success. The first ever Mr. Independence Pageant was held Saturday February 9th, 2019 at the National Cultural Center. The event formed part of activities for the celebration of Saint Lucia’s calendar of activities for the 40th anniversary of independence. It was held with the endorsement of Sen. Hon. Fortuna Belrose, Minister with responsibility for Culture and Creative Industry, who was in attendance. The pageant started right around 8 PM, and from the start it was a very entertaining night with each contestant presenting himself professionally and with strong stage presence. The theme “Embracing Diversity, The Key to Unity,” was espoused during the ambassadorial speeches which each contestant delivered with much confidence. The eight doing battle for the title were; Jamieson Edward – Castries South/East, Treasure Actille – Castries North, Brendon Joseph – Castries South, Jamal Springer – Castries Central, Cardious Constantin – Dennery, Sherquil

Florence – Micoud, Franeil Charlery – Gros Islet and Deshawn Augustin – Vieux Fort. The second segment - sports-wear, was filled with thrills and special moments, as each contestant, representing a national sports personality, added a fun touch to the event. With a mix of singing, dancing and dramatization, the lads then showcased their various talents while the creativity of their tailors shone through the evening wear. The question and answer then closed off the competition. The event flowed almost flawlessly on the night, not overburdened by guest performances, save for a couple of singers and a Latin dance group. Before the coronation the young men were serenaded by Linda “Chocolate” Berthier. The title of Mr. Independence was then bestowed upon a crowd favourite, Jamieson Edward representing Castries South East. He was crowned by the reigning Miss Independence (2018) Kurnisha Augustus. Deshawn Augustin representing Vieux Fort was the first runner up, while Castries North’s Treasure Actille was the second runner up. The organizers would like to thank everyone who supported the venture which they say will be an annual one. “This event is not just your ordinary pageant. It is an event which helps to develop our young men with a commitment to promoting the values and principles of the Commonwealth group of countries,” stated Gregory Lorde.

23 Feb 2018

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Calypso Legacy a Grand Success!

alypso Legacy – Independence edition was billed by the organizers as the real ignition to swing into action the activities for Independence 40. The event in the end or should we say from the get go, proved to be all that and a whole lot more. Organized by Pioneer productions and endorsed and supported by the Independence 40 Committee and the Government of Saint Lucia, the sold out event saw a fantastic night of great Calypso music and some truly memorable performances unfold at the National Cultural Centre. It all went down on Saturday February 2, 2019 as the night of pure nostalgia and calypso music at its finest, shook the venue from start to finish. Some of the best Saint Lucian Calypsonians to have graced the stage over the past four decades, among them a number of past Monarchs, demonstrated that they still had what it took to engage a crowd. Calypso Legacy- Independence Edition, featured more than fifteen Saint Lucian calypsonians in a tightly run and very entertaining program. Among them were past Calypso Monarchs Invader, Ashanti, Pep, Walleigh as well as the reigning Calypso King Mr. Brown. The calypso thirsty audience spilled onto the beautifully bedecked outdoor setting, with an outdoor party feeling, complete with a big screen for viewing the action onstage. By the time the first performer hit the stage after being introduced by MC Ezi Hall, it was standing room only inside the NCC, with a large audience enjoying the outdoor lime as well. The first performer Invader started things off with a bang, doing “Just as I am.” By the time he came back in the second half to do Carnal Knowledge and L’argent many were already on their feet to party with the singer. In round one Herb Black was superb during his renditions of “Calypso Jail” and “All in Me.” Not only did his singing grab the attention of the audience, but his black suit attire also added to the magic. The icing on the cake however, was when Nintus joined in on “All in me,” much to the delight of the audience. The people’s king Ashanti was also strong on the night, giving his best on the song “Lucian population.” He was followed by “Black I” (alongside Yatty) to do Rambo Diplomacy, a song long considered by many as one of the best produced and written Saint Lucian songs. Robbie then came on to do two numbers “Castle’s in the sky,” and “Can’t stop,” followed by Pep who did “Bab Kamawad.” Simplicity was up next with “Pan Passion,” undeniably one of the best pan tunes to have appeared on the local scene. The lone female performer advertised for the night would not be outdone. And she came with back-up. Lady Leen displayed awesome stage presence and delivery on the night when she performed “Woman in a March.” Dressed in military fatigue she was joined by her fellow female calypsonians Oshun and Menel who created a stir in the crowd where a congaline was formed, winding its way through the venue. Leen completed her time on stage with “My Day. ” Before the first half ended, Jackson kept the tempo up with “Guy Love dance” a Saint Lucian Road March classic. Following the intermission, former Calypso Monarch Walleigh took the audience to the moon and back with “Destination Lunar.” Then it was the turn of the reigning Monarch Mr. Brown who teased with “Rasta in Kaiso” before delivering his first winning song “I Like.” The second round also featured two Saint Lucian performers based in Texas, USA, who were flown to Saint Lucia for the occasion. First was Jaunty who performed “Ou La Lay,” “Bobolist” and “We shall hop.” But it was the second – Exterminator, returning to the Saint Lucian stage after 26 years, who brought down the house. Doing the song “Entertain,” his voice and

showmanship, were both on point. Exterminator returned to chants of an encore, closing off his performance with a tribute to Saint Lucia, doing Arthur’s “I am Saint Lucian.” The hilarious Twop Chans doing “Hospital Burning” as well as Magila who returned in fine form to do “Rum,” also had the crowd going in the second half. But there was more. Before the night was over, Legacy – Independence edition, saw the guest appearance of Baron from Trinidad and Tobago doing some of his hits like “Say, Say,” and “Sweet Soca Man.” The crowd called for more and Baron obliged before making way for De Ashanti to bring the curtains down. He started off by teasing with the performance of a Baron song before getting just about everyone out of their seats when he jumped into “Empty promises” and “Malayway.” Calypso Legacy – Independence Edition certainly jumped started activities for Independence 40 during the month of February in a big way. And if this is any indication of what is to come for the rest of the month, then Independence 40 is really going to be a grand celebration.

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23 Feb 2018

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Miss Independence Crown for Soufriere Miss Independence Crown for Soufriere

laring horns, flashing lights and screaming supporters, were the order of the day on Sunday February 17, as a motorcade in honor of Miss Independence 2019, made its way through Soufriere. On Friday February 15, Sancia Charlemagne was crowned at the National Cultural Center, a victory which was well received by the audience of the packed Center. The Miss Independence pageant was being organized for the second straight year by the Ministries of Equity, Social Transformation and Culture through the Independence committee and Events Company of Saint Lucia. The success of the event once again, can be attributed to the involvement of the various communities through the town and village councils, generating interest throughout the island. This year, ten contestants were chosen to represent their various constituencies and communities, giving the event true national appeal. The ten were Kiera Leon – Babonneau, Timiqua Deterville Dennery North, Kamani Alphonse - Gros Islet, Keahni Hippolyte Castries/South East, Tunisia Lansiquot - Anse La Raye/Canaries, Trish Placid - Laborie, Kershel Bousquet - Castries/East, Jenny Joseph Castries/North, Tunisia President - Micoud and Sancia Charlemagne Soufriere. The contestants came on stage to resounding applause first in their introductory number, then delivering their ambassadorial speech. They sought to espouse what their communities stood for; giving a bit of history, while incorporating the theme for Independence. The ten ladies also made appearances in swimwear, talent and evening wear. The interview segment was not judged this year. In the end, Sancia Charlemange who wowed from beginning to end was the clear-cut favourite. She had massive support in the audience with her Soufriere posse which included MP for the area Herod Stanislaus. Sancia amassed a total of 435 points, to walk away with the crown. She also won Miss Congeniality, Best talent, Best promotional speech and Best evening wear. Miss Dennery North, Timiqua Deterville was the first runner up with 377 points and Miss Anse La Raye/Canaries Tunisha Lansiquot second runner-up, with 372 points. She won the best in swimwear category. The Micoud contestant Tunisia President was the third runner up with 357 points. Miss Photogenic was won by Kieara Leon representing Babonneau. The pageants saw the presence of Hon. Jeannine Giraudy McIntre, President of the Senate and chair of the Independence 40 committee who handed out some of the prizes to the contestants. Present too was Senator Hon. Fortuna Belrose, Minister with responsibility for Culture and Creative Industry, Ezekhiel Joseph MP for Babonneau and Mrs. Racquel Duboulay Chastanet wife of the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia. The crowd also showed their appreciation for the involvement of the first ever Mr. Independence who was crowned a week earlier Jamieson Edward as well as Miss Teen Independence from Laborie Jheanne Divine Le Compte. The 2018 Miss Independence Kurnisha Augustus also made an appearance as she took her final walk on the night.

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23 Feb 2018

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best of saint lucia on stage!

Teddyson John

ome of the activities for Independence 40 will see the involvement of Events Company of Saint Lucia. Speaking

recently Marketing and Sponsorship Oﬃcer of Events Company of St. Lucia Inc. (ECSL) Miss Leila Williams stated that ECSL is thrilled to partner with the Independence Committee for the 40th Anniversary of Saint Lucia’s Independence celebrations. “We embrace the theme “All in, Our Journey, Our Future” and as such we are positioned to provide support to the Independence Committee, for the execution of the planned activities,” she stated.

Ricky T

A number of art-forms will be on display including, Dance, Music and Theatrical performances. Some of the key entertainment will feature the best and most memorable Saint Lucian Calypsonian, and Soca artiste accompanied by LIVE bands. Also featured is the most recent inclusion on Saint Lucia’s musical portfolio, Kudoro, backed by Derek Yarde Project, one of Saint Lucia’s most popular jam bands. Teddyson John & The TJ Project featuring Ricky-T, will also take the stage.

A display of fireworks in celebration of Independence 40 sets off at On the eve of Independence, the city will be a buzz with major midnight from the Castries Harbour and will be immediately followed cultural displays and exhibitions. Two event sites in the city’s capital by the raising of the Saint Lucia flag. Best of Saint Lucia continues until Castries, are being prepared to host these showcases, one at Consti2 am on Independence morning. tution Park from 6 PM and the other on Jeremie Street between Block DS & the Castries Market from 10 PM. The best of Saint Lucia Concert is scheduled to take place on Thursday, February 21st, 2019. The productions will capture what is intrinsically Saint Lucian culture handed down for generations, a cultural heritage and history that we Events Company Saint Lucia also gave support to the Miss Indepencherish, and a journey for which new chapters is being written daily, dence pageant which was held on Friday February 15 at the National as we evolve culturally and as a people. Cultural Center.

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Happy 40th Independence Anniversary to all Saint Lucians wheresoever you may roam . . .

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