Entertainment

Maples Group ready to give “next round of funding” to ESHS Music Programme

Published

2 years ago

March 15, 2023

Editor

Richard May, managing partner at Maples and Calder, gestures as he delivers remarks at the handing-over ceremony of musical equipment to the Elmore Stoutt High School Music Programme on Wednesday, March 15.

By MERRICK ANDREWS, Online News Editor

(JTV News) — Richard May, the managing partner of Maples and Calder — the Maples Group’s law firm — said his company is ready to make another financial contribution to the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) Music Programme.

He made the announcement during a ceremony on Wednesday where the company officially handed over 62 new musical instruments — two bass guitars, seven alto saxophones, 15 clarinets, 15 flutes, five trombones, three tenor saxophones, and 15 trumpets — to the Programme.

“This remains an ongoing commitment,” he said. “We are ready to do our next round of funding. We had a conversation just before about this. We don’t know what that is though because the big question now is you got all this equipment — we can help you get more — but you got a space issue, so that’s what we need to talk about…”

John Primo, the director of procurement at the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), lauded the Maples Group during the ceremony, noting their “high level” of commitment to the school’s music programme and support of music education in the territory.

He said the company has forged a “solid partnership” with the BVI authorities over the past five years, donating over $160,000, to date.

Primo said in 2019, the company donated $100,000 to help in the construction of the ESHS music classrooms that were destroyed by the hurricane; $12,500 in 2020 for additional classical instruments; $28,000 in late 2020 to sponsor the school’s band; and $20,000 in November 2022 for additional musical instruments.

Primo told the students at the ceremony that, according to reports, playing musical instruments “makes you smarter”.

“A few researchers have determined that musical study develops critical thinking and self-discipline, as well as cognitive development, basic math and reading abilities at an early age. In addition to these skills, students who are involved in a music programme have a higher self-esteem, a greater sense of teamwork, better school attendance, and are less likely to become involved in gangs and substance abuse. We are confident that the students of this programme and this great school will produce some of the future leaders of this territory,” he said.

Speaking at the ceremony, Education Minister Sharie de Castro also expressed her government’s gratitude to the Maples Group. She added that though the government will do its part in funding the education sector, public-private partnerships, like with companies such as Maples, “will truly cement a partnership that will last, I believe, forever”.

De Castro recalled that she was a former student and teacher at ESHS.

“I now stand here humbly as the minister and I understand the reality that teachers can only do so much. If they don’t have the resources they are not able to bring forth the type of talent we want to see,” she said.

May said he was “encouraged” by the words of the minister. He then went on to explain how Maples worked out how to make the sponsorship more effective.

“Our biggest concern, when we looked at what to do with the RDA, was how we can make an impact when we are not a mega donor. How do you actually translate the cash we got into something real? The cash we had through RDA, with support from the ministry, the high school, everyone around that, produce these….,” he said at the ceremony.

The Maples executive said the Programme received very good equipment compared to what he used during his school days.

“I went to a very privileged school with lots of equipment for this sort of stuff — and this is better. What you got now is amazing,” he said.

May said the musical talent in the BVI is “huge” based on what he has seen at local events. He said he looks forward to the next “big concert” and the next “big star” from the BVI.

He emphasised the benefits of music.

“We agree, as most adults do, that having access to this sort of stuff is not just about your life right now. It’s just life generally. Music is awesome. Y’all like different versions of music and you probably hate the music I like but in the end music — it’s awesome — and you can have happiness, jobs, lives, whatever. It brings all those things,” he said.

Magdalene Barzey, head of the ESHS Music Programme, also expressed her gratitude. She said the programme is “very expensive” and there is a lot more that needs to be done.

“We do have a long way to go,” she noted.

However, Barzey said she is really appreciative “for what we have here”, coming from “such a distance from playing under tents and on dirt”.

The donation comes as the territory celebrates Education Week from March 13-19 under the theme “Virgin Islands Education: Moving Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead”. S.T.E.A.M stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

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Entertainment

The International Morning Braff Show Returns to the Airwaves

Published

1 week ago

January 14, 2025

Editor

The International Morning Braff Show is back, reenergised and ready to reclaim its spot as the must-listen program for Virgin Islanders and audiences worldwide.

The show returns this Wednesday at 9 a.m. on Tola Radio VI (100.5 FM), kicking off the station’s 10th-anniversary celebrations with a lineup that promises excitement, insight, and surprises.

Legendary host HBH Da Don will reunite with Ras Rubio and the show’s dynamic panel to deliver the energy, laughter, and engaging discussions fans have come to love. The opening broadcast will feature a star-studded guest list of over 20 government officials, artists, bands, and public figures from the Virgin Islands and beyond.

This milestone year is more than a celebration of the show’s return—it’s a tribute to Tola Radio’s decade of service to the community. Over the years, the station has become a cornerstone of Virgin Islands culture, fostering community spirit through music, entertainment, and charitable initiatives.

Highlights of Tola Radio’s contributions include:
Annual Christmas Dollar Mania: Benefiting over 500 winners each year.
Support for Local Music: Over $47,000 in contributions to advance the industry.
Major Giveaways: Including four automobiles, 50+ televisions, and countless prizes.
10th-Anniversary Giveaway

To mark this special occasion, Tola Radio has announced its 10th Anniversary Giveaway, an eight-week promotion culminating in a grand prize drawing during the YOLO Promotions Black on Black Show featuring Vybz Kartel on March 15, 2025.

Listeners can look forward to exclusive guest appearances, exciting events, and unforgettable moments as Tola Radio continues its legacy of delivering Virgin Islands culture to a global audience. Whether tuning in locally on 100.5 FM, streaming online, or joining the conversation via Facebook Live, fans are in for a treat.

“The International Morning Braff Show is more than just a radio program—it’s a movement that unites our community and celebrates the essence of the Virgin Islands,” said a statement from Tola Radio.

The management and staff of Tola Radio extend their gratitude to sponsors, partners, and loyal listeners who have supported their journey. “This milestone wouldn’t be possible without you,” they said, promising more laughter, music, and opportunities to connect in the year ahead.

Entertainment

Vybz Kartel’s Return: Freedom Street Concert Marks Historic Comeback After 13 Years

Published

3 weeks ago

January 2, 2025

Editor

Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated return to the stage after his release from prison was met with global excitement, both from his loyal fans online and those attending the historic Freedom Street Concert in Kingston, Jamaica.

The Grammy-nominated artist, who spent 13 years in prison on a murder charge that was overturned in March 2024, took to the stage in front of more than 30,000 fans just after 11 p.m. on New Year’s Eve at the National Stadium, with an additional 150,000 tuning in online.

He performed a mix of classic hits and fresh material that energised the fans, who were thrilled to see the “World Boss” enjoying his historic return with support from a star-studded cast, including Popcaan, Bounty, Spice, Shawn Storm, Lisa Hype, Gaza Indu, and American rapper Busta Rhymes.

While many celebrated his long-awaited comeback, others were left wanting more, with some missing the high-energy performance and signature vocal delivery that made him popular early in his career.

But Kartel, who is living with Graves’ disease and a heart condition, proved his popularity is still intact when thousands of viewers watching the free live stream were unable to access a steady feed due to the overwhelming online traffic.

Economically, the event proved to be a significant boon for the local community, with estimates suggesting it generated over US$10 million.

The surrounding area saw a temporary surge in employment, and local businesses benefited from an increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.

Looking ahead, the Jamaican artist’s international comeback continues with a show in the British Virgin Islands on March 15 in front of an audience that is expected to include guests from neighbouring territories, such as the United States Virgin Islands and St Maarten.

Entertainment

FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation

Published

1 month ago

December 18, 2024

Editor

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).

The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.

Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”

Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.

Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”

The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.