REACH Magazine APANY Anniversary Edition 2016 by Sue Campbell

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Publisher’s Note

We are delighted to invite you to enjoy our special edition magazine REACH, produced to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Anguilla Progressive Association of New York (APANY) and to promote the beautiful island of Anguilla to all. It’s been a true labor of love to create this one-of-a-kind issue, and we have so many people to thank who have made its production possible. Our talented young Anguillian artists, writers and photographers who have brought it to life, our friends from near and far who have fering their business products to our members for fundraisers, or by simply providing their time and skills to make this happen. We thank you. We must also send out a special thank you to our editor and our art director, promotional director, our administrative volunteers, marketing and sales team, and our printing company for all of their hard work. We also want to thank the talented young local artist who provided us with the powerful illustration for our cover. We hope you enjoy our creation REACH and that you will reach out to join us at APANY as a member to continue to promote Anguilla as an ideal destination for all, and to aid in the island’s important local causes. Sincerely, The APANY Team. REACH Magazine Editor: Susan Campbell- Travel Journalist Art Director: Christina Canzoneri- CWG Design Photographer: Jamal Gumbs-Jamalgumbsphotography.com Contributor: Shanice Davis- Protégé AXA Publisher: Carlson Connor, President APANY Cover Art: Canita Ruan, Creator of “Indomitable Will”- Student of Ani Art Academy

Printing by: Zac-Mel Graphics, Inc.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Welcome to the Anguilla Progressive Association of New York’s 20th Anniversary Magazine There is an expression: “I am merely the sum total of everyone I’ve ever met.” Though that might be true, you are also the sum total of a lot of people you have never met: your ancestors! Ties run deep throughout the generations whether you realize it or not, and traits and talents ourselves from our roots. Tracing our past and reconnecting with those who are still part of us about possible futures.

“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” -Marcus Garvey

(Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs)

them an easy way to reconnect with their roots, helping to welcome them back home. And yes, you can go home again. Even if you’ve never been here before, or have lived here before, home always remains where the heart is; and we guarantee, your love for this island will be forever etched in your heart once you’ve experienced it.

So let’s go and explore Anguilla!

It is my privilege to congratulate the Board of Directors and the Anguilla Progressive Association of New York (APANY) on your 20th Anniversary.

Over the past two decades, Anguillians at home and abroad have achieved their important leadership demonstrated by the Association. I have seen how APANYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

milestone. A great number of individuals have made this possible, with many contributing quietly, or working tirelessly behind the scenes, to support and assist fellow Anguillians. My thanks go to each of them. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to the next 20 years!

Governer of Anguilla

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

It is indeed an honor and a privilege to be in place to commend the Anguilla Progressive Association of New York (APANY) on this, your 20th milestone anni versary. APANY has provided many opportunities for patriotic Anguillans to feel a sense of connection and belonging to their homeland through the events and initiatives it has staged over the years. We commend you for the manner in which positive contributions toward the advancement of our people. I know it is a challenge for any organization to maintain the energy of its mem the last 20 years, APANY has demonstrated through its many successes that it prove the quality of life to all Anguillians.

for the outstanding leadership you have all exhibited in guiding the organization

On behalf of the government and the people of Anguilla, let me take this op portunity to wish APANY all the best in your important work for our homeland. mission. Happy 20th Anniversary! May God continue to bless you with many more mile stones and successes.

Victor F. Banks Chief Minister

Celebrating 20 Years of Operation!

tion of New York Inc., I am delighted to congratulate our organization on this 20th anniversary of service the Anguillian Diaspora at home and abroad. APANY is a 501ÂŠ3 organization, and a conversion of the former Sons and Daughters of Anguilla association of New Jersey. On December 2006, I took the helm as president, and I have witnessed the successful development of many unique and exciting programs. I am humbled and grateful to all who have supported the association over the past decade, and I would be remiss not to mention how greatly we value our productive and supportive collaboration with APANYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Florida branch and our strategic advisory team to improve overall performance and service to our mem bers. Be assured that I plan to spend my time as president leading our organization through undertakings that will contin

support our members in areas that will further strengthen and expand our unity, understanding and friendship. Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

: of the Association. APANY also works with several organizations in Anguilla to accept contributions in North Ameri sons in need. Providing activities for the elderly and youth, and providing scholarship awards and mentors to assist and encourage students who receive scholarships. To sponsor and support cultural and visual arts programs, and to promote the goodwill and general welfare of our members and unite all people who are interested in the island of Anguilla.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

APANY Mission and Vision Statement tion that was organized in 1996 by a group of concerned Anguillians and friends of Anguilla. The mission of APANY is to provide assistance for the educational, social, economic and cultural needs of Anguillians at home and abroad.

(their country of origin) but may certainly want to visit their ancestral roots. The key for growing group. At APANY we have partnered with a number of business leaders in the tourism sector and

A A though many people in diasporas have been separated from their origin countries for long periods of time, many are still connected through active participation in organized diaspora communities. Based on these continuing ties, policy makers, employers and business owners should regard dia sporas as strategic elements for their businesses. Organized diasporas in communities function for the interest and best outcomes of their origin and host countries, but most importantly for the sake of their own wellbeing. Only they are equipped with unique intercultural and other knowledge and capabilities that can serve the needs of their home and host communities.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

APANY believes we can always reach out to help give local Anguillans a hand up in funding important social and community causes. These are the causes we support

Our has, and continues to contribute to the tuition cost of four grant recipients from Anguilla during their four Universities in the Caribbean and the United States. Students from the Anguilla Community College (ACC) are also eligible for the . Looking forward, we plan to provide targeted support to the Anguilla Community College by annually sponsoring students to complete the Geriatric Care Course and other programs there. The role of this community college has grown

(Photo Credit: ACC)

students. and to develop additional life skills. APANY is proud to be able to fund deserving students to enable

Intervention, Special Education support, Occupational and Physical Therapies, and Summer Camp

restaurants, Irie Life, Liminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and ZaZaa boutiques, and locals and regular visitors who all give their time and bring supplies, the Anguilla Tennis Association for their great fundraisers, and FLOW for

We All Become Stronger By Raising Each Other Up.

(Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

This is part of a larger plan of local development. The center will include space for recreational, social, and communication activities, a senior citizenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service center, a youth center, and a meeting point for local councilors

cultural and economic activities in a practical and inviting environment for all.

APANY also supports Fashion for a Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual charity event and many other foundations and causes as needs arise throughout the year.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

What makes this island tick is not only the locals who have were born and raised here, and the support of the diaspora,

who hail from the UK, the US and Canada as well as other Caribbean islands and have become deeply dug in and unnoticed. Whether its volunteering their time to teach children, spearheading fundraisers, launching special events like fashion shows or sporting events to support community

greatly appreciated. They have become an integral fabric of the colorful tapestry that makes this island so warm and welcoming.

Actress and her husband producer/director James Hayman fell in love with the island some 25 years ago and have made it their second home. Annie also fell in love with a special needs child here named Kemarley and wrote and illustrated a book about him to help

extensively and there are beautiful beaches and luxurious accommodations all over the world. But there’s one thing you cannot replicate everywhere and that is the warmth and welcome of the people who actually live where you holiday.

And the world’s top travel writers tend to agree. Though initially lured to Anguilla by promises of uber upscale best beaches on the planet, their stories after leaving often

who contributes to some the highest end

(Photo Credit: David Duran)

And of course, Anguilla is no stranger to celebs and VIPs bowl stress of their daily public lives. But even they tend to fall under the enchanting spell of the easygoing folks here, and end up making new friends in spite of their quest for privacy. Supermodel was one of them. She everywhere always had a smile on their faces. And they were so proud of their island and loved sharing their stories

connection to another culture.

“Everyone here is so warm and welcoming! People I met always had a smile on their faces.” -Donna Feldman, Supermodel & TV Celebrity 16

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

This island though tiny in size, has big creative talents! And they are always reaching out to bring other artists and writers onto their shores to share ideas. A prime example of this is the annu al

which means there are plenty of parties and celebrations surrounding the event!

Such was the case with

seen in travel brochures, I assumed the color of the of the people were posed. But there, I was stunned to discover ocean the color of tourmaline, sand as people everywhere I turned. I fell in love. The day I left, I sat in the airport terminal in St. Maarten and cried. Never before had I seen such beauty; returns to the LitFest to keynote again this year high school and senior center. A Taste for Travel cuisine and the warm Anguillian hospitality, what I really took home was a renewed commitment

The Entrants as young as 8 years of age are encouraged to put pen to paper and express their feelings through free verse or rhyming phrases. At the 2016 event, received special recognition at the Poetry Competition Awards Ceremony. Mrs. Wong is not only a pioneer of poetry on the island, but also a pioneer and participant

continually come together here to celebrate their love

And the excellent local tourist guide magazines also give creative residents a place to showcase their talents through writing and photography while they tell insider stories about island happenings and events. These beautifully produced publications reach out to visitors and to the world in print and via the Internet to enlighten readers on the authentic island vibes.

(Daisy Wong Photo Credit: Nat Hodge)

Publisher of What We Do in Anguilla la has come this far due to the passion and commitment of so many how we do it. What We Do in Anguilla prides itself in promoting their

and

are the publishers of True Anguilla True Anguilla almost writes itself because we use a lot of commentary from visitors to Anguilla and Anguillians who seeing themselves featured. We ask them to share what they love about the island, and whom they look forward to seeing when they return. We True Anguilla is such a beautiful guide to the island that visitors often take it home as a sou venir. We set out to produce a magazine such as True Anguilla because this island is such a special place it needed a very special guide to do it

Studio, Art Café, Estate Hope Art Studio, Lynne Bernbaum Art Studio and The Anguilla Arts and Crafts Shop. And the World Art & Antiques Gallery is also a great bet for art lovers.

Many people don’t realize that there is a very special art school

ful training system developed by artist Anthony J. Waichulis, Anguilla became home to one of the six such academies in 2012.The school is located at lovely Ani Villas, and full merit scholarships and

one of the fortunate ones to be chosen to participate in the academy’s Ani Art Academy, my experience so far has been thrilling and the skills I’m developing there are sure to

The illustration to the left is an

Dean of Ani Academy an amazing opportunity for aspiring artists to seriously pursue their artistic goals. The academy gives Anguilla the potential to nurture some of the best artists in the world and I truly hope people will take full advantage of this rare

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

by Shanice Davis Making New Waves on the Musical Horizon

an’s answer to Bob Dylan or Bruce Springsteen and the troubadour who put the island on

when visiting Anguilla. It also became home to the current annual Moonsplash Festival, the longest running privately owned music festival in the Caribbean. But there’s a new crop of seriously talented musical artists nipping at the master’s heels now, and one of them happens to be his son! So, let’s meet them:

Omari Banks

ago. Amidst naysayers and critics, Banks has managed to Bankie Banx once was, while still remaining true to his unique sound.

tage on their European tour, taking his music beyond the shores of Anguilla as he’s often done through his own promotional endeavors. His album Move On bears singles like the tender

lovers worldwide.

(Omari Banks photos: Marla Federici)

industry as one to watch. Then she further impressed when she tied with soca giant Machel Montano

Deanna Hailing from a long line of musicians, Deanna Mussington’s ear for music may not come as a surprise, but that doesn’t make her vocal talent any less remarkable. The daughter of Darvin Mussington of Anguilla’s legendary The

budding music career. Currently under the mentorship of her manager Ivan Berry, Deanna released precedent to her promotional tour in the birthplace of reggae music. Jamaica’s premier entertainment show On Stage TV hinted that Deanna might be the Caribbean’s next international breakout star! We can’t say we disagree.

(Photo Credit: Deanna)

Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

at the top of 2015, it came as a pleasant surprise the recent University of the Virgin Islands gradu ate could sing. Not only that, but the style strayed away from everything that was conventionally but struck a chord with her growing fan base on and beyond Anguilla. This time around, on her her Caribbean sound, yet still seamlessly embraces this artist has found the perfect blend for her versatile range that could very well launch her into mainstream territory abroad.

Exodus HD

They are also working tirelessly to earn the road march championship title once more for Anguilla Summer Festival 2016! With an impressive catalogue of music including fan their only competition as they gear up for yet another successful season.

(Photo Credit: Exodus HD)

is an alumna of Howard University who received her Bachelor of Arts in English in May 2016. the Anguilla Progressive Association of New York, Inc. (APANY). She is also creator of The ProtĂŠgĂŠ AXA, an online destination dedicated to highlighting young creative artists and entrepreneurs in Anguilla and the Caribbean at large.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Though some folks make think that this small sleepy isle with such beautiful beaches is only conducive to simply lounging by the sea or talking long romantic walks in alabaster sand, they’ll be surprised at how many active pur There is an authentic sailing culture here; seafaring is a deeply routed Anguilla tradition, which has spanned the generations for centuries. Sandy Ground is where the boats gather, and there are many year with rentals, charters and in a party boat is the best way to follow the races!

Beyond wonderful water pastimes like swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking, Anguil take you out to them. But it’s the diving that will really take you up close to cool underwater marvels like sunken shipwrecks not far from shore, and there are some excellent dive oper ators on island like and . But you need not even get wet to see this island’s thriving marine life and colorful reefs. You can also take a

However, if you’ve always had a burning desire to explore the enchanting undersea world

The new

is a unique experience where you learn to swim who was once an underwater model and is a skilled free diver, she has trained an elite team of instructors to teach women, men and children how to truly channel their inner Ariel and Neptune! They dy Ground, but private and group classes and special occasion appearances are also available.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

sport on this island, but it is! is a story. Mr. Mitchelle Lake is the founder, who in 1996, decided to provide a free summer tennis camp for children on the island. Since then, the youth to the sport of tennis.

Program (ASP) to help students learn the disciplines of the sport. Today, their annual and foundations. Since its inception, ATA has and gated courts where everyone is invited to come play and learn, instilling an exciting tennis culture on this island that begins at a very young age.

(Photo Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

bird watching and photography lessons.

(Photo Credit: Jacqueline A. Cestero)

the coolest horseback riding adventures in the Caribbean! has fabulous steeds that will take you galloping down the postcard perfect beaches, and then you sub merge right into the impossibly aqua seas while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still upon the horses! Surreal!

(Photo Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board)

tion warm and friendly locals is also a big draw, and then of course there are the beaches! No one does bare

for example. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such an eclectic mix of chic, cool and trendy, yet still caters as well to the business crowd as it does to romantics, and is a favored spot for fundraisers like fashion shows for local caus es. And is seriously over the top.

(Above: Photo Credit: Viceroy Anguilla Below: Ani Villas Photo Credit: Ani Villas)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

The new programs and activities, and their exquisite design that seamlessly cascades into the sea

And yes, these places are expensive, but they are also so worth the splurge. However, that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean all of Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stays are out for reach for some. There are many charm

on Meads Bay is an excellent option with a wide selection of room options from

minutes away, and they are well known on the island as being the nexus of Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art and culture events like the annual LitFest.

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

The luxury boutique feel. And with only 31 rooms youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bound to feel like family there in no time! Of course, diaspora guests will often spend time at the homes of their families and friends, but the , , and the throughout the year to help celebrate our 20th anniversary!

(Photo Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board)

emporiums, the chefs and mixologists on Anguilla are highly creative and often garner top honors in the annual culinary competition held in Miami hosted by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association called

The bounty of the sea and Anguilla’s famous spiny lobster fresh out fection in a variety of creative ways. And often on the menus you’ll

are legion. But a great way to sample the many treasures of the sea all in one spot is at the annual around Easter when the Photo credit: Anguilla Tourist Board

diners also aids the marine life environment. Though beautiful to look reefs and they are eating everything in sight since they have no natural prerogative!

beef, pork and lamb are also available, and chicken and even goat meat grace a great variety of dishes. (Try the goat stew!) But it’s the

watering ribs and chicken usually served up with traditional sides of

Photo Credit: Straw Hat Restaurant

too!

Asian dishes here due to the cultural melting pot. And though much of the fruit and produce must be imported since this island is so arid and rocky, vegetarians will also feast well thanks to the unique hydroponic garden at Cuisinart that supplies many of the dining rooms with their healthy harvest. Try their cherry tomatoes; they’re so sweet they taste like candy! Of course, where you dine is often as important as what you eat when it comes to satisfying a special desire,

up some delicious dishes. In fact, when on holiday here, you might well run out of days before you run out of

(Photo Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Like many cultures, our parties always involve food, drink, music, danc ing, family and friends. But the Anguillian way when it comes to festivals and ing a good time. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like a party with a purpose, or more a party to celebrate something achieved.

raising in the old West, Everyone comes together to help each other out, and once the result is achieved, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big party! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a coming together of the community and a cementing of the ties that keep us strong as a people. But of course, everyone is invited to celebrate along with us!

(Photo Credit: Anguilla Tourist Board)

Anguilla has pegged their big annual blast to Emancipation Day, which always

out beach parties, band clashes, food events, parades and gen

the Anguilla Summer Festival would not be complete without boat racing!

(Photo Credit: What We Do in Anguilla)

(Photo Credits: Jamal Gumbs)

been tightly tethered to the sea for its prosperity long before tourism became an important driver of the economy. Fishermen, boat makers, and sailors were the typical trades, and due to mankind’s inherently competitive nature, boat races around the island became a very big thing!

year, and the best place to follow them is from party boats! The races have the entire population rooting for their favorites, but even if you’re not on the sea, there’s no dearth of celebrating on land until the vic

, a past Chairman of the Anguilla Summer Festival and a member since 2007, explains our neighboring island St Maarten/St. Martin looks forward to it as much as we do since they come over

now. The festival is like a golden thread that weaves together the generations upon generations and has

the time I was a teenager was the Calypso Show. I love the combination of wit and humor combined with the seriousness of the social commentary.

Miss Anguilla – it’s so much a part of who we are. And the minute it’s over, we’re already looking forward

Photo Credit: Shellecia Brooks

(Photo Credit: Josveek Huligar and What We Do In Anguilla)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Photo Credit: What We Do In Anguilla

during the annual Summer Festival! Not only will you save on hotels and airfare because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s low season for the Caribbean, you will also be in the midst of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absolutely biggest annual celebration! So we hope to see you all at the Summer Festival this year! Visit: www.axasummerfestival.com And if you are seeking the ideal keepsake to take home after your holiday and our special

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

One might wonder why you’d want to leave a perfectly good island to go to another one when you’re on Anguilla, but there are some very good reasons for day trips and side hops to surrounding atolls. And some are so close; they’re almost in swimming distance!

Island if where folks go for the food, but stay for the scenery. Blindingly white and powder soft sand sur

before, but their ribs are also a sweet, spicy and tender treat. There’s not much to do beyond relaxing in a

(Photo Credit: Corail Helicopteres)

exactly one minute and 20 seconds to get there by boat. (And the water taxi is free.) To quote the owners

or lobster. Their delectable side dishes like pasta, slaw, salad and fruit also make an ideal vegetarian plate. There’s often a live band, and it’s a favorite for locals to gather and socialize as much as it is a visitor’s

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

to this uninhabited private island via the owner’s small boat hire through Palm Grove Bar and Grill on Junks Hole Beach. Day trips with lunch can also be ar

salt ponds and a beautiful beach. Beyond your companions, the only other living things you’ll encounter are lizards, wild goats, and seabirds, and if you’re lucky, distance. It’s also a popular nesting spot for sea turtles.

ized from the face of the earth mid task! Eerie. But cool. The island’s owners are and maybe even survival style retreats. Helicopter visits also to come.

(Photo Credit: Bernie Verhoeven)

and disembark right at the rest of the day at Sunset Beach Bar from a perfect perch to watch the world’s craziest airplane landings right over your head! Now that’s a rush! Bring your suit

whirlybird tour from St. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s . You can choose your own route, but one of their most popular excursions is the stellar tour over Anguilla! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll witness enchanting aerial views of Pinel Island,

(Photo Credit: Corail Helicopteres)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

Reach Out and Join APANY! Author and historian is a prime example of a friend from afar. He has roots on Anguilla, but has never lived there. However, his quest for retracing his family his

Fortunate Member of a Caribbean Diaspora and he is working on a

have an interest in helping the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important community causes and charities and pro become part of the and receive special discounts at Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resorts and businesses and participate in special promotions throughout the year.

social events throughout the year, receive special discounts at Anguillaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resorts and busi

sorts and activities. And there is a new APANY branch in Miami now, too! See our website for more informa

@apany3

(Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

(Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs)

Anguilla Progressive Association of New York 20th Anniversary Magazine

(Photo Credit: Jamal Gumbs)