Countdown to an Epic Easterval

      It is now Good Friday of  Easter 2016. Besides the religious significance of the holiday,  there is a cultural connection in the Grenadine island of Union island.
    50 years ago a little known festival was started by the people to celebrate this weekend.  It consisted of sports,  water activities and general celebrations of the 'Unionite'  heritage. As I type this I am looking at my bags as I go to my second home to enjoy what can be described as an
'Epic Easterval' .

       Today I take the good old ferry down to Union Island. The journey which will take about 5 hours (There is a faster ferry but it does not operate today) will give me time to reflect on the significance of Good Friday as well as catch up on some well needed sleep. As soon as I land it's going to be a non-stop party.

     Tonight is the Union Island Foreign Based All White Party. The most popular private event for Easter promises this year an exciting VIP experience with premium drinks and food as well as the best djs in SVG including the popular 2 Kool Kris. This party starts at ten but the best time to stroll in is after midnight as you will not be leaving until morning. 

      Saturday morning brings the Breakfast Buffet at Uncle's Spot in Campbell. This new event is billed to be the food event of Easter for us weekenders and I am looking forward to the menu. 

     Saturday evening will be the Lion's All Inclusive Sunset Cruise. This will be my second year on the cruise. While supporting a charitable cause you get to see the beauty of Mayreau and  sail around Union Island while enjoying the music, drinks and a great atmosphere. 

     Saturday night is the prestigious Miss Easterval pageant. Six contestants will compete for the crown in the four categories. I judged this pageant for two years and it was a good show. Let's see if the crown can come back to Union Island this year. 

  Sunday morning will be church with my grandmother at the St. Matthias Anglican Church. This church is one of the oldest on the island and it is a family tradition that we attend to receive our Easter blessing. This is followed by the Sunday family lunch with lots of wine and jokes as we reminsce on the olden days.
   This year, the Easterval committee will hold a new event called Beach House to replace the Soca Fest. It will be held at Sparrow's Beach Club which has one of the best views on the island and features live performances and the best Djs. Let's see if it lives up to the hype. *fingers crossed*

   Monday will be J'ouvert from Ashton to Richmond beach. Just watch the video. It says it all. 

And then it is back to reality. Union Island for 2016 will be 'turnt up' as the young people say for Easterval 2016. 

Follow me on Twitter @shavarstar, Instagram @shavarstar Snapchat @shavarstar for pictures and videos from this Easterval! 

Why I need a Carnival Loan!

                    It's Vincy Mas again and this year it seems as if things will pass me by. This week I received a text message with the offer of a Carnival Loan. I laughed to myself and said this is not Trinidad so I don't need that. However when I started looking at the Carnival calendar, the prospect of taking a Carnival loan was looking better and better. I finally sat down and decided to calculate if I wanted a "real" carnival experience how much it would cost me.

            Vincy Mas officially launches on the first weekend in May and then the slate of shows begins. The first major show on the calendar is Miss SVG. With tickets between $35 to $45, a new outfit and the allowance for drinkings I am spending $200 at a minimum. (I could just stay home an order the Flow package for $35). 

The following show is Soca Swing at Victoria Park. I would have to buy tickets and drinks for this show so that is another $100. The next weekend is White on the Dock which is not all inclusive so between tickets and drinks, I have to cater another $100.

The next weekend has the must see show of the Carnival Season, Neon Rave. If you were lucky to get an early bird ticket that would cost you $0. However I was not that fortunate so I would either pay $50, $60 or $75 for a ticket. With the number of cameras and camera phones around, I would have to look good and cater for drinks so this will cost me at least $200 for this show. 

With promoters trying to ensure that revelers have events to attend there are several non inclusive events such as Soca on the Beach, H2O Soca, Dirty Sexy Soca , Bun Wuk and Ati-Stush. For each of these parties I would have to cover ticket costs and drinks costs. While some are fairly reasonable ($25) some will make you stretch your pockets such as H2O Soca. 

Then there are the must attend all inclusive parties for the Carnival Season. Carnival Xscape, Slippery When Wet, UV Vibes, and AM Jamboree which will all happen over the '10 days of fun in the July sun.' Each of these parties will cost a minimum of $150 with AM Jamboree costing $200 for an early bird ticket. 

And then there are the CDC shows: Fantastic Friday, Miss Carival, Soca Monarch and Dimance Gras. While I may not make Sunday night for calypso (after a drunken Slippery When Wet), Miss Carival and Soca Monarch are don't miss on the calendar with tickets starting at $35 for Miss Carival and $40 for Soca Monarch. And what's Carnival without jumping J'ouvert either with Country Meets Town or RJR? You have to take on the road on Monday morning revelling in paint, mud and the most outrageous costume that I can find. Monday afternoon will see me doing Monday jams with the Network SVG which was an excellent experience last year. 

Tuesday brings down the curtains on Vincy Mas with Mardi Gras. Playing mas is an experience and depends on what you are looking for costumes and the experience can run you anywhere from $375 to $900. You only live once so you might as well spend to be on the road. 

So after all that lets calculate my bill for Vincy Mas 2015

SHOWS                                                                 Cost *

CDC Shows - Ms. SVG                                          $35

                       Fantastic Friday                              $30

                       Ms. Carival                                     $35

                       Soca Monarch                                 $40

 Private Shows  Soca Swing                                   $30

                          White on the Dock                        $40

                          Neon Rave                                  $50

                          H2O Soca                                   $60

                          Soca On the Beach                     $40

                          Dirty Sexy Soca                           $15

                          Bun Wuk Warm Up                       $25

                          Bun Wuk Cool Down                    $25

 All Inclusives   Slippery When Wet                         $150

                           Carnival Xscape                          $175

                          Am Jamboree                              $240

                          UV Vibes                                    $150

J'ouvert                                                                 $40

Network                                                               $40

Costume for Tuesday                                            $400

Outfits for Carnival                                               $600

Drinks Money                                                       $700 ($50 minimum for each show)

Total Cost for My Carnival Experience               $2920

* Costs are based on published prices where available  as well as estimates based on 2014 prices.

            While some persons may say that is a small price to pay I think I can invest that amount in a more rewarding way. While $3000 may represent a small price to pay for fun, one has to remember that there are bills to be paid, groceries to be bought and other expenses that will arise from time to time. 

So I will choose only the shows that I really want to attend and try and make my wardrobe as versatile as possible. I won't be getting a loan because debt today = death tomorrow. Choose wisely for Vincy Mas and your pocket will thank you. 

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to talk about the prices of parties here and what promoters are offering but to look at personal financial responsibility in a season where spending comes as natural as drinking water!

                          

Scandal Brings The Music Back

With the anticipation for Season 4 of the ABC drama 'Scandal', we were all looking at what creator Shonda Rhimes would bring to the table. When interviewed, Rhimes revealed that Olivia was going back to her roots. This 'going back to the roots' was added to by the soundtrack for the first nine episodes of this season. From the well know voice of the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin to Marvin Gaye to the King of Pop Michael Jackson, Shonda touched them all as they added flair to the dramatic life of Olivia Pope and Associates. So which were the best songs for the season so far? Take a listen to the playlist of Season 4 and take your pick!

Click Here to listen: Scandal Season 4 Playlist

Here are my top 3 songs for the season so far"

1. There was no better way to say goodbye to Harrison than by having the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin singing it herself. Her rendition of the Simon and Garfunkel song "Bridge Over Troubled Waters' added to the sadness felt by the team and made us all want to cry as we said good bye to Harrison, our beloved fellow Gladiator.

2. What better way to ask what the hell is happening in Washington than by using Marvin Gaye's hit "What's Going On". With Papa Pope asking for Jake to come to dinner, the Huck & Quinn saga, the mournful Mellie sulking on the couch and David learning of Judge Spark's suicide, what better song could be chosen to ask what's going on in Washington. The words are not only appropriate but we are swooned by the soulful voice of Marvin himself.

3. This season Shonda and her writers seem to be on the path to empowering women. From the opening episode where Olivia helps Senator Vaughn's assistant, it seems that Olivia is out to make sure all women are equal and protected. So when Abby's abusive ex husband returns to run for a Senate seat, Olivia goes to his opponent and makes her over to win and what better song to do this makeover to than the song crooned by iconic diva Chaka Khan which is an anthem for women worldwide.

What are your favourite picks? Let us know.

Scandal returns January 29th, 2015 on ABC!

Power Soca: Can Skinny do it again?

It's that time of the year and on Saturday 5th July , all eyes will be on Victoria Park for the 2014 edition of SVG's  Soca Monarch. In the Power Soca category, Gamal 'Skinny Fabulous ' Doyle will seek to defend his crown against 14 artistes as he seeks to make it 4 in a row. Can Skinny do it again? Take a listen to the competition and hear our predictions.

1. Hance - Wild and Crazy

We love the songs that Hance bring but this song has not garnered the type of popularity to make it to the crown. We however expect nothing but a great performance.

2. Shaunelle - Soca Goddess

With a catchy beat and a good voice, Shaunelle brings her divinity to the stage with the Soca Goddess but will it be enough for the crown. We predict a top 5 place but not the crown this year!

3. Tamisha - Doh Mash It Up

Tamisha has made another great effort for 2014 and with the response from H20 Soca this year, we know she is gonna bring a great performance to the stage. This song we predict will be in the top 5 this year!

4. Fya Empress - Slap Way

Fya Empress will try again this year for the Power Soca crown which has eluded her. While the song is catchy and appeals to the 'Rum Posse' we need an extraordinary performance and half of the park drunk to see this song taking the crown. Our prediction is that this will be a top three hit but not the crown!

5.  Fireman - Unruly

This year Fireman has come out with a vengeance to win the crown. We see flashes of the past Fireman who won the Power Soca crowns in past competitions and we know that the whole of North Leeward will be in Victoria Park. The question is , will he bring such stiff competition that he can give Skinny a run for the crown?

6. Problem Child - No Discipline

A crowd favourite every year, Problem Child always brings great songs to the Soca scene but his performance  always kills the songs. We have seen flickers of change this year with his performance at Black Rave so we expect him to being one of hs best performances in recent memory to the stage in Victoria Park.

7. Syxx Krazii - It's Carnival

The winner of the 2014 New Song contest, Syxx brings a new vibe to the usual jump and wave. This is a great song with appeal but with it's popularity lacking, we don't know if it has enough power to make it into the top 5.

8. Jamesy P - Bang Dem

Another contender for the 2014 crown is veteran Jamesy P. While he is known for hits such as 'Nookie' and 2014 hit 'Wet", we don't see this track having the power to break into the top five. Let's hope it's an entertaining performance.

9. Keith Currency - Trouble

Another one of the popular tracks for 2014, Keith Currency is sure to have a great run in the Power Soca category with this hit. If he can pull off a crowd moving performance we see this song making a top five place and maybe even making the top three!

10. Fresh Kydd - Ride It

A great tune by a young up and coming artiste, we like the beat and the use of brass. We look forward to a good performance but don't see the crown going to this 'kydd'.

11. Shaney Hypez - You feel you bad

This song's popularity would be due to this artiste being a disc jockey on SVG's most popular radio station. With a catch tune and simple lyrics, we see this a crowd moving hit but not in line for the crown. (However we see this one giving Skinny a run for Road March.)

12. Royal - Youngest & Baddest

Another young artiste, this song has been popular at rural carnivals. We however don't see the power behind it to take the crown.

13. Madskull - Family

Another young artiste, this song has been making the rounds on the airwaves. With a catchy rhythm and simple lyrics, we see the crowd moving to this song. We however do not expect an electrifying performance and don't see this one in the top three but maybe a top five place.

14. Maddzart - Hole in the Road

Another veteran in the Soca business, Maddzart bring another 'road' tune but we don't really feel the power behind this one so we don't think the park will either.

Reigning Monarch - Skinny Fabulous
Following on the success of Behaving the Worst, his writing for artistes such as Machel Montano and collaborations with international artistes such as Major Lazer, Skinny is poised to have another fantastic run in the Power Soca Category. We predict a 65% chance of winning the crown with his stiffest competition coming from his bitter rival.

While it is said he will perform 'Red Button'  (which is actually called Made for This), a few persons have been calling for the other big Power Soca hit 'Mental Home'. While we await Skinny's choice, we anticipate Victoria Park will go crazy over this performance.

My predictions for Power Soca Monarch 2014
The top five in no particular order: Skinny Fbulous, Fireman, Keith Currency, Problem Child and Shaunelle.
(We'll see if I can do good predictions.)

Victoria Park is the place to be on Saturday 5th July for the biggest show for Vincy Mas 2014. Can Skinny do it again? We'll just have to see!

Ragga Soca 2014: Battle of the Groovy

Vincy Mas 2K14 is about to climax this weekend and one of the most anticipated shows will be the Soca Monarch competition. Again this year the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) has combined both the Ragga (also known as Groovy Soca) and the Power Soca segments into one show. (I'm not a big fan of this!)

This year nine artistes will come up against reigning Ragga Soca Monarch Lornette 'Fya Empress' Nedd. Here's a look at the competitors and what they will bring (along with a few predictions),

1. Skarpyon - Raw Curry 

The reigning Calypso Monarch bring a chutney flair to this year's Ragga Soca Monarch. On the heels of the success of 'Hammer & Conch' from 2013 and the bitter sting of being relegated to second place, we can expect a performance like no other by Skarpyon as he goes for the crown again this year! 

2. Johnny Rebel - Thunder 

No one can deny Johnny Rebel loves the Soca arena. His presentation this year is actually a great fusion of old school with new beats. This tune is actually quite catchy and takes you back to a time when you were young and innocent to Soca messages. While we know this tune will be a hit with an older crowd, We aren't too sure if the performance at Victoria Park will be able to move the crowd. 

3. Fireman - Rum Meeting 

This year Fireman presents his best chance for taking home the crown in the Soca arena for years. This song has not only a captivating beat but also resonates with the entire cross section of Soca listeners from young to old. While we await the presentation on stage Saturday night, we know the crowd will be moving from beginning to end. We shouldn't be surprised if Saturday night, the rum meeting takes home the crown. 

4. Vincy Marshall - Faith 

This song has been making its lyrics felt for this Carnival season. While still relatively unknown, Vincy Marshall is having waist lines moving for this Carnival season. We anticipate that this song will have an impact in Victoria Park on Saturday night but will that be enough to secure a top three spot? We are not too sure!

5. Demus - No Problem

Another of this year's anthem, we know this song will have Victoria Park moving. This is one of the songs with the best airplay for this season and its catch beat and lyrics have endeared Soca lovers of all ages. We hope Demus can however brig a great performance to help propel him up the ranks this year. One thing we can say however is that we have 'No Problem' with this song! 

6. Wiz Skid - Fettologist 

It is hard to deny that this song has been one of the most popular for Vincy Mas 2014. With the new catch phrase for this year's Carnival, 'Fettologist' resonates with any party animal who can identify with the lyrics. We know that patrons at Victoria Park will be dancing to this tune but will the performance be one to wow the judges? Let's  hope it's not as disappointing and stiff as the music video. 

7. Shaunelle - Champion

A veteran to the Carnival business, Shaunelle enters her 21st year with 2 good songs. While we know that she can perform, her music has not been beating the airwaves as much as we think it should and this may make the crowd not as involved as it would normally would. We expect nothing but a stellar performance from Shaunelle but will it be enough to take her to the top three? We'll just have to see!

8. Hance - Wasted

One of SVG's up and coming Soca artistes, we enjoyed his 2013 presentation. This year Hance brings another great track to the table with 'Wasted'. With a great beat and cool lyrics, this is actually one of the best Raga Soca tracks for 2014 in my opinion. Hance always brings a great performance to the stage but is his son popular enough to get the crowd moving? We're not too sure but still Saturday may just surprise a lot of people!

9. Piece ah This - Keith Currency

This year Keith Currency brings another catchy hit to the stage with 'Piece ah This.' This song has been garnering airplay and is another of the favourites for Vincy Mas 2014. With major improvements in his craft, we look forward to a great performance by Keith on the stage and maybe a break into the top three for this year's competition. 

Fya Empress - Drink Ah Juice

This year, Fya Empress brings another crowd moving hit which we expect to rock Victoria Park. She will bring her 'A' game to the stage to defend the crown and it may be hard to beat her. This song has the beat, the lyrics and essence of Ragga Soca. We look forward to what the Empress brings to the stage on Saturday night. 

So my prediction: My top three in no particular order are Fya Empress, Fireman and Keith Currency. 

We'll see what happens on Saturday 5th July at Victoria Park but one thing we know is that the Ragga Soca segment this year is filled with hits that will have you on your feet from start to finish. It's the Battle of the the Groovy! 

5 Travel Tips if you're coming home for Carnival

Vincy Mas 2014 kicks off in 5 days and suddenly I have had a flood of people asking me what to do since they are travelling in on LIAT.

I love LIAT a lot but that does not mean that I don't know the drama that comes with travelling with the airline in summer. So if you're coming home for Vincy Mas or the summer, here are my five tips to make that travelling a little easier:

1. Don't bring all of 'foreign' home with you. You're only allowed 50 lbs in your check in bag and 15 lbs in your carry on and during this peak time LIAT likes to enforce this. Make life easier by packing what you need. You can bring the best summer wardrobe for the 2 weeks you are here in 50 lbs.

 If your family wants you to bring town and country, consider shipping a barrel because when you pay for overweight or excess bags expect a headache and hassle getting them from Barbados/Trinidad as they automatically become standby bags. Also pack at least two days worth of clothes in your hand luggage just in case the baggage demon selects you to not receive your bag. If you don't get your bag, fill out a Property Irregularity Form (PIR) at the desk and wait at least 12 hours before you call. Your bag will not be in on the next flight (note the agent says the next available flight) so give it some time. Meanwhile help the economy by buying a shirt and jeans in Kingstown. LOL!

2. Reconfirm your flight and leave a local contact number. One of the biggest problems is that persons do not reconfirm their flights or they do not leave a local contact number so that they can be informed of changes. Sometimes LIAT knows a flight will be 4 hours late but there is one before that you as a passenger can be accommodated on but they have no way of contacting you. Leave your mother's cell number or the land-line just in case because it may save you having to stay in the airport in Barbados or Trinidad for an extra day.

(Photo credit: I Witness News SVG Kenton Chance/Nigel Browne)

3. Delays are inevitable. Summer is a peak period and with breakdowns, extra sectors, weather delays and overbookings you will find that flights will be late. There are two simple ways to deal with this: have a good book or fully charged tablet and keep your vex money for food. While the airline has a policy of three hours before they have to feed you after a delay, the easiest thing is to keep that handy US$20 to buy Cheffete's in Barbados or some 'doubles' in Trinidad. Keep a book in your hand luggage or your tablet to keep you entertained and occupied but make sure you listen out for delay announcements and boarding announcements.(If travelling with kids you may have to keep extra money as new security regulations do not allow the carriage of liquids over 3 oz per container. Pack snack boxes for them and make sure you have games/toys to keep them occupied! You'll have to buy them juices to keeps them hydrated as travelling can dry you and them out.)

(Photo credit: I Witness News SVG Kenton Chance)

4. When returning to the new home, people have the idea that they need to pack everything to carry back. From fish to breadfruit to sugarcakes to whole turkeys, we know you miss the taste of home. However with the number of bags going out, there is a possibility yours will be left behind.

The easiest thing to do is pack your perishables in your hand luggage. You do not want the fish spoiling or missing out on savouring those tamarind balls. Non perishable items like the pepper sauce, Sunset Light Rum (it is illegal to travel with Sunset Strong Rum) and Black Wine cannot go in the hand luggage so put them in the check in bag and they will get to you unspoiled (even if it's a few days late.)

5. Be nice to the agent at the desk. The biggest mistake a lot of passengers make is that they think cursing the agent at the desk will make things happen for them. It is the exact opposite and while I know LIAT's customer service leaves a lot to be desired, you will be surprised that being nice will get you a whole lot farther than cursing the agent. A pleasant greeting, a smile and a friendly tone can make things happen faster and the agent more empathetic towards you. Also do not just run to the supervisor or manager to see if they can do it faster; they can't. They always come back to the little guy and his connections so be nice to the agent at the desk!

Remember check in time is two hours before the flight and that you should clear with Immigration and security at least 30 - 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. Have a great trip home to SVG and if you see me, buy me a rum (Sparrow/Mt. Gay or Capt. Bligh)  as a 'Thank You' for the advice!

THE SOCA MUSIC VIDEO IS BACK!

Skinny Fabulous does it again.

Taken from http://socahits.com/wp-content/uploads/skinny_fabulous_glitz.jpg

        If 2013 was a great year for Gamal ‘ Skinny Fabulous’ Doyle, 2014 is going to be epic. After claiming the Soca Monarch and Road March crown in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for 2013, Skinny has started out 2014 with a bang. His writing and performing skills were put on show for ‘The Greatest Party on Earth’ Trinidad Carnival 2014.  After a stellar performance for the International Soca Monarch  and with the success of his hit ‘Behaving The Worst’, Skinny released the music video on Monday 10^th March! The reaction could only be described in one word: CRAZY!

        The video has garnered over 10 thousand views in less than 24 hours and has been liked and shared hundreds of times on social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook. Not since the days of Touch has a music video been anticipated like this and received such feedback in a short space of time.

        The video was shot in Trinidad and St. Vincent with the opening scene including the Lowmans Leeward Anglican School. The opening scenes of the video include the La Gracia Dance Company and the Commissioner of Police in SVG, Michael Charles. The video is riddled with Soca celebrities including  power couple Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons, 2014 Power Soca Monarch Machel Montano, Destra Garcia, Iwer George, and 2011 Project Runway winner Anya Ayoung Chee! With production by Alex ' Kubyashi ' Barnwell, this song now combined with video is poised to take Vincy Soca on a rampage across carnivals for 2014. 

 

Kern Rose (left) & Titan VCD (right) directed the video

         Directed by Titan VCD and Kern Rose (who directed the Patrice Roberts/TallPree video for Mash It up), this video really brings out ‘the worst behaviour.’ With dance moves that are hypnotic, scenes of fences being ripped down and the proud representation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (the flag, Skinny’s scarf and the Hairoun beer), ‘Behaving The Worst’ has brought the music video back to Soca especially in SVG and will hopefully revitalize the music scene in SVG. Let’s see what Vincy Mas 2014 will bring but one thing we gotta say, Skinny Fabulous has done it again! 

4 Degrees can mean the world of Change

Over the last few years there have been many changes in our environment and  phrases such as ‘Global Warming’ and ‘Climate Change’ have become a part of our everyday language. But what does this mean for persons in small islands such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines? What will be the impact if the 4 degrees Celsius warms the Earth? A warmer world will not only impact us here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines but also the whole world!

Taken from WorldAtlas.com 

                One of the world’s foremost experts on climate research, Prof. Hans Joachim Schellnhuber who is Director of  Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research,  located in Potsdam, Germany talks about the impact of CO2/Carbon Dioxide on today’s world. It is interesting to note that with all the green vegetation in St. Vincent that we don’t really think about CO2 emissions. However if we are to look at the impact of CO2 on temperature, we will begin to look at how the dry season has become so unpredictable and the havoc being wreaked by the continued spike in temperature. We are now experiencing hotter days which are impacting how we live our everyday lives.

The Marriaqua Valley (13th most fertile valley in the world)

                But what if the world’s countries don’t change, what will be the impact? Dr. Erick Fernandes, Adviser, Climate Change and Natural Resource Management, Latin America and Caribbean Agriculture and Rural Development Unit at World Bank notes that while there may be some positive from the rise in temperature, it will ultimately impact our agricultural production. As a country that is dependent on agriculture and agricultural exports, we will be impacted severely whether by droughts or lots of precipitation which will destroy our agricultural stocks. We will no longer have any form of food security and will have to begin looking at higher import bills or even food crises that can lead to malnourishment, and spread of diseases.

Anopheles Mosquito which carries the disease. (Photo from CDC.gov)

                We as an island nation will also be looking at rising sea levels as this can have a major impact on our country, both physically and economically. In the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change Report, the impact shown from the unattended levels of emissions is staggering and shows a drastic rise in sea levels impacting the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean islands and leaving millions of persons displaced by coastal flooding. There will be loss of valuable coastal property which will impact industries such as fishing and tourism. According to Prof. Stefan Rahmstorf ,Professor of Physics of the Oceans, Potsdam University, and Head, Earth System Analysis  at Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, he states ” We can see that also some of the ecosystems that protect the coasts from storm surges will get  damaged by sea‐level rise. “ He notes in the longer run coastal cities as well as island states may be at risk. The impact of coastal flooding is not only important to us in SVG or the Caribbean but also coastal cities such as New York in the US and Rotterdam in Europe. It is a problem that will affect us all.

Flooding in the island of Oceania which are already feeling the effects of Climate Change 

                We will also see an impact on the health of our population from the effects of this 4 degree change in temperature. Prof. Anthony McMichael, Professor Emeritus of Population Health at Australian National University in Canberra, Australia notes that there will be an impact on the health of our populations. In addition to food shortages and dwindling resources, the health of our people especially those who are in the poor and vulnerable areas will have a lot to contend with such as rise in vectors such as mosquitoes and the diseases that they carry like malaria will see an upsurge as conditions will be favourable for breeding them. The impact on the ecosystem he notes will also impact us as animals such as bats which help control disease will be impacted and will no longer be there to help contain these diseases leading to a world that is very unhealthy and diseased.

                So what is the solution you may ask? There is no quick fix for climate change and the effects. We are living in a technological age where we have to develop the solution for climate change by working together as nations on the Earth whether you are 150 square kilometres or millions of square kilometres. We have to see how we can impact the discussion and bring about changes at the local, regional and international level. And if you think Climate change is not important, just think of your favourite beach and you no longer being able to visit it or you can only get rationed food to eat or there is a major outbreak of Malaria. The time is now to start action for a world of change and stop the 4 degrees.

If I were Valedictorian, this is what my speech might look like...

 It is with great honour that I stand here today representing my colleagues at this important milestone. Congratulations to you all on this great achievement having walked the hallowed halls of this campus of the premier tertiary education institution in the Caribbean, gleaning the knowledge and experiences that we will take forward in our lives. Today marks the end of another chapter in our lives and the beginning of another; in the word of Julius Caesar ‘Veni, Vidi, Vici.’: ‘We came, we saw, we conquered.’

      We came to this place that many of us would call home for years and on entering this beautiful campus, we started a journey, an adventure that could only be described as the UWI Experience. From the plethora of information and myriad of experiences of Orientation Week, we knew that we had made a great choice by choosing the Mona Campus. Then we started classes and immediately we knew that this was no longer secondary school or CAPE. Our school days became filled with lectures, practicals, lab sessions and the occasional class debates which added to our learning experience. We were told on entry that we were here to ‘read for a degree’ and that is exactly what we did. The libraries became our second home and the libraries’ staff our family. Many days and nights would be spent there doing research, accessing documents and just finding a quiet environment to study. The quote of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow became known to many of us after our first year here. “Heights by great men reached and kept were not obtained by sudden flight but, while their companions slept, they were toiling upward in the night.” We would learn from our mistakes in first year and go on to make the rest of our academic journey a successful one.Yet while we pursued our academic goals, there was more that would mould us as Pelicans. Our skills and talents were shown whether in acting, singing or directing at the Philip Sherlock Centre, our sporting abilities displayed at the Mona Bowl, the event planning skills in transforming venue for pageants, shows and parties and our outreach projects focusing on helping our society. Our time spent within the various clubs and societies on campus would help develop our leadership and communication skills as well as make us team players. There were many debates between the nationals from the many islands of our region, informing us about each other’s culture with each trying to outdo the other. Still, the more we would highlight our differences, the more we would see and embrace the similarities of our Caribbean identity. All of this would help to mould what the UWI has outlined in its strategic plan: the ideal UWI graduate.

On such a momentous occasion, it would be remiss of me not to recognize those who helped and guided us on this journey. We were fortunate to have some of the best minds in the Caribbean and by extension the world, to pilot our academic pursuits, challenging us to think creatively and critically and pushing us to achieve excellence. We are thankful to our lecturers and tutors for their work in aiding us to achieve today’s accomplishment. Your invaluable efforts will go on with us in our work wherever we are. To our families and friends, we thank you for the love, support and tolerance especially in our trying times. We are grateful for your integral role in this journey to our academic success.

And so we have come to the end of another chapter of journey and will begin a new one today. We must now become the change we need in our countries, our region and our world. We must now pursue our dreams, no longer waiting for a job to be provided but providing our own jobs, creating innovative businesses and becoming the leaders of our region for today.

         As we move on let us not forget the memories and friends made here. We now have a network that extends throughout the region and beyond.  We are now ambassadors of the university and bear the proud title of Alumni of the University of the West Indies. As Pelicans I urge us to wear it proudly, display it and show why the UWI is the premier tertiary education institution in the Caribbean. We must also proudly give back to her; join the UWI Alumni Association and support the efforts to improve the university by giving of our time, talent and treasure.

       In closing we have done what Caesar did; we came to this campus with a dream, we saw the excitement and the challenges of university life and we conquered it, with today as a testament of our achievements. I wish us all success in our future endeavours and may we proudly stand as representatives of the "Light Rising from the West." I thank you!

Shavar D.M. Maloney  B.A. (Hons) Media & Communication UWI Class of 2013

HAPPY NEW YEAR

To all my readers,
Wishing you all a Happy, Blessed and Productive 2014.

Nuff Love,
Shavar

The Christian Face in Disaster

  

    After the torrential rains of Christmas Eve, communities in Dominica, St. Lucia and St. Vincent & the Grenadines were left reeling from destruction with floods, landslides and destroyed bridges. The most significant impact was however the loss of lives in the countries with deaths totaling 18 so far with several persons still missing.

        The scale of the tragedy was brought out by the pictures and videos posted on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Throughout Christmas Day, the traditional celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, pictures poured in of damage, destruction and despair. However one picture brought a spirit of comfort and hope (maybe just to me.) This powerful picture showed a cleric comforting a young woman crying in pain.

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That's Just The Way It Is

After the George Zimmerman Trial, emotions ran high among African Americans and persons of African descent. On Social Media especially Facebook and Twitter, emotions ran high and it seems for a brief moment as if the USA had stepped back into the pre-Civil Rights era. Many people claimed 'racism' and looked to say that the justice system still wasn't leveled....Continue Reading 

What LIAT response should look like?

What LIAT response should look like?

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Who will win Ragga Soca 2013?

With the announcement of Ragga Soca finalists by the Carnival Development Corporation, nine artistes will square off against the reigning monarch Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd for the coveted title of 2013 Ragga Soca Monarch. If you don’t know who they are, here are the artistes and their songs along with my predictions for Saturday 6^th July 2013. Continue Reading

Reigning Ragga Soca Monarch Lornette 'Fya Empress' Nedd

Miss SVG 2013: Reflections of a Commentator

This year marks 10 years since I have been going to the Miss SVG pageant. I remember in 2002 when Laferne Fraser was crowned Miss SVG and went on to win Miss CARIVAL. I have always enjoyed the show because of the humorous moments that are provided but ultimately I wanted to see which girl would go on to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This year I was asked to do commentary for one of the top radio stations in SVG, We Fm. So sitting in the media booth, I had a bird’s eye view of the pageant and looked forward to what I would see. 

Read Miss SVG 2013: Reflections of a Commentator

PORT ROYAL: A Treasure Chest Of History And Nature

Back in Primary school the story is told of Port Royal, the wickedest City on Earth and a familiar story was found in the West Indian reader about the man who was swallowed up by the Earthquake in 1692 and spit back out. So when the opportunity arose for me to visit the infamous Port Royal I took the opportunity.

Read more: PORT ROYAL: A Treasure Chest Of History And Nature

A History in Portraits

Many people make look at portraits and think that they are antiquated and prefer a digital picture everyday. I however see beauty in the use of canvas and a few weeks ago took the time to view the portraits located at the new Regional Headquarters of The University of the West Indies.
Click here to read more: A History in portraits

Happy New Year

Happy New Year readers! We made it past 21st December 2012 and we're still alive so it seems the Mayans were wrong. I wish you all the best for this year and I promise new and exciting content. I will be devoting more time to my blog and may even consider starting something is more targeted but the plans will be unveiled as 2013 continues. May 2013 be successful and prosperous for you all!
Shavar

5 VINCY SOCA ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

As we await to hear what happens at Soca Monarch 2012,  I choose to look at five young artists who may not be rated number one but give us great music when Vincy Mas comes around. So here are my 5 Vincy Artists you should know and look out, because they might just surprise you:

5. Shaunelle McKenzie 

 After years of winning the Junior Calypso Monarch, Shaunelle transitioned to the adult music world and it seems like the winning streak didn't follow her. However don't count her out as she continues to make some of the most enjoyable Vincy music and has shown her versatility in music by doing both calypso and Soca. She also won the International Year of Co-operatives Song Competition for 2012 and performed her winning song in Jamaica. So look out because this songstress will continue making enjoyable Vincy music.

Shaunelle McKenzie - Carry On 2012

4. Gary ' Icon' John - Every year Gary John has been one of the first artists to bring out Soca for the Carnival season. His continuous thrust has made him one of the best young artists in SVG although he has not received the accolades that he deserves. His perseverance in the Soca arena makes him an artist on the rise.

Icon - Frassmentz (Vincy Soca 2012)

3.  Orande 'Bomani' Charles

 After his 2004 Hit 'I am Soca' which won him the 2004 Soca Monarch and Road March titles for SVG and the OECS Soca Monarch title in 2005, Bomani has continued to produced hits every year as well as several albums which have shown not only his versatility in music but his love for Soca music. His latest hit 'Saga Boy" is one of my picks for Vincy Mas 2012 as it not only exudes confidence but is more than just a jump and wave song!

Saga Boy - Bomani (2012)

2. Shertz ' Problem Child' James

Arguably one of the best male artists in Soca, Shertz James better known as 'Problem Child" has come out with some of the biggest hits in the last 5 years. His song 'Party Animal' which one the Road march in 2007 has not only become an immortal Soca hit but brought a new fusion (along with some controversy) to Soca with his sampling of the Zouk hit "Zouk La Sé Sel Médikaman Nou Ni" by Kassav. Every year 'Problem Child' continues to make hit after hit which is well receive both locally and on the international Soca scene and which is why he is one Soca artist you should know. 

Life of the Party - Problem Child (2012)

1. Lornette 'Fya Empress' Nedd 

Before she was Soca Monarch of Tobago, Lornette grew up singing in the church. Her talents have not only been seen in Soca but also in Calypso and she has continued to grow in her music as her songs can easily compete on the international Soca scene . Her 2012 hits have been some of her best work and with a great stage performance, she will be a contender for Soca Monarch 2012. She has also made it to the Calypso Final 2012. With such talent, versatility and the right approach, the sky s the limit for this artist.

Rum Please -Fya Empress (2012)

So here are 5 artists to look out for as Vincy music continues to grow and evolve!

7 CARIBBEAN FOODS YOU MUST TRY

Check out my latest blog update: 7 CARIBBEAN FOODS YOU MUST TRY

Click here to read: 7 Caribbean Foods You Must Try by Shavar Maloney