Entertainment
Maples Group ready to give “next round of funding” to ESHS Music Programme
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.
Long Bay Beach Resort on Tortola has elevated its dining scene with the opening of the 1748 Sushi Bar, a sophisticated addition that brings the essence of Japanese cuisine to the Caribbean shores. This new venture, led by Sous Chef Sherman, promises a dynamic fusion of traditional flavors and contemporary flair. With sushi, sashimi, and innovative maki rolls crafted from the freshest ingredients, Chef Sherman’s creations reflect a dedication to authenticity and artistic presentation.
To complement the culinary offerings, Head Mixologist Ashish has curated a signature cocktail menu inspired by Japanese culture. His creations, featuring touches like miso and yuzu, are carefully crafted to harmonize with the sushi bar’s dishes, offering a taste of Japan’s rich traditions infused with a Caribbean twist. “Our cocktails are designed to enhance each guest’s experience, blending Japanese and local flavors for a unique experience,” Ashish shares.
With its serene oceanfront setting and ambiance steeped in elegance, the 1748 Sushi Bar invites diners to enjoy a taste of Japan against the stunning backdrop of Tortola’s Long Bay. Reservations can be made at +1 (284) 345-3773 for those eager to experience this remarkable culinary addition in the British Virgin Islands.
The Haynes Smith Ms. Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant returns on December 29 in the British Virgin Islands.
Twelve remarkable young women from across the Caribbean will showcase their cultures, share their dreams, and connect with their communities.
Representing the British Virgin Islands is Ms. Asha Hyndman, a young woman whose commitment to her heritage, health advocacy, and future dreams has already inspired many around her. Asha’s platform, Looking Good: Eye Care Education for All, hits close to home. Living with Keratoconus, a progressive eye condition affecting her vision, Asha understands the challenges that come with an invisible condition. “Eye health is often overlooked, but I know firsthand how deeply it can affect your life,” Asha shares. Through her platform, she hopes to educate others, raise awareness about vision care, and show compassion to those with similar challenges.
Asha’s ambitions extend beyond healthcare advocacy. She is passionate about Moko Jumbie, the traditional stilt-walking art of the Caribbean that embodies both skill and storytelling. “Moko Jumbie is more than a performance; it’s our culture in motion,” she says. Asha envisions making this art form more visible, from local celebrations to global stages, while also mentoring young performers to ensure this tradition endures. “It’s an honor to be part of something that has stood the test of time, and I want to keep that spirit alive,” she adds.
On the academic front, Asha has set her sights on becoming an ophthalmologist, a dream shaped by her own experience with vision issues. After completing her studies in Biology, she hopes to establish an ophthalmology practice in her home country, expanding it across the Caribbean over time. “I want to give people in my community the kind of specialized care that they often have to leave the island to find,” she explains. She even has her sights set on collaborating with the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, a move she believes will bring top-quality eye care within reach for Caribbean residents.
Yet Asha’s ambitions reach even further. A lover of travel and discovery, she’s been inspired by the adventures of popular travel vloggers Kara and Nate, and she’s eager to explore every corner of the world—particularly the remote beauty of Antarctica. “There’s so much to learn from different cultures, landscapes, and experiences,” she says with excitement. “Travel gives you a new perspective on life, and I can’t wait to broaden my own.”
The Haynes Smith Ms. Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant has long been a space for young women like Asha to celebrate their identity and passions. It’s more than a pageant—it’s a gathering of dreams and the shared spirit of the Caribbean’s next generation. As December approaches, these twelve contestants aren’t just preparing for a competition; they’re ready to step into the spotlight, showing the Caribbean and the world what they’re made of. This year’s pageant promises to be a heartfelt tribute to the strength, talent, and future of the islands.
MHV Resorts & Hotels has officially taken the reins of Quito’s Luxury Inn and Quito’s Gazebo Restaurant & Bar, following months of negotiations. The resort group, led by prominent Virgin Islands businessman Mark Vanterpool, assumed control of the well-known Cane Garden Bay properties on October 1, 2024. As part of the transition, the hotel will be rebranded as The Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel by MHV Resorts and Hotels.
MHV Resorts & Hotels has a robust 40-year history in the British Virgin Islands, with a portfolio that includes supermarkets, restaurants, and now high-end hotels. Their expansion into the hospitality industry reflects the group’s commitment to enhancing the BVI’s tourism offerings and providing quality service for both locals and visitors.
In a statement, Vanterpool expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “MHV Resorts and Hotels is excited to join the vibrant Cane Garden Bay community, a cultural and tourism icon in the BVI. We look forward to creating employment opportunities and collaborating with local businesses to foster sustainable growth, while preserving the bay’s unique charm.”
The renovated restaurant, formerly known as Quito’s Gazebo, will reopen in the coming month under the new name Rhythm & Sands, continuing its legacy as a beloved destination for music and good times. Guests can expect a perfect blend of fine dining and the laid-back rhythms that have long made Cane Garden Bay a favorite in the BVI. The hotel is set to open shortly after, just in time for the 2024-2025 tourist season.
With this transition, any uncertainty surrounding the future of the historic property can be laid to rest. The new Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel promises a luxurious escape where guests can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the bay and the soothing sounds of the sea.
To book your stay or learn more about the new hotel and restaurant, visit: CaneGardenBayBeachHotel.net. For official updates, visit MHVresortsandhotels.com.
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