A & B Buzz - February 2013

Bucket List Issue Bucket List IssueBucket List Issue

Antigua & Barbuda The Beach is Just the Beginning

Tourism Newsletter February 2013

Top 10 Lists • Beach Bars You Must Visit • Adventures You Must Try • Festivals You Must Check Out • Hotel Pools You Must Dive Into

Cover: Keyonna Beach Resort Bali Bed

0 The number of days required for couples to prove residency before obtaining a marriage license in A & B

3 The number of Saints named Valentine acknowledged as martyrs by the Catholic Church.

5 The number of minutes it takes to pop a pill to save your heart. Once chewed it takes an aspirin 5 minutes to thin your blood. During American Heart Month, remember popping a pill at the first sign of a heart attack can dramatically increase your odds of survival.

75

The percentage of couples who have been together between 1-5 years and still hold hands a few times a week, according to The Normal Bar a new book that outlines relationship data from more than100,0000.

1415

The year the first written Valentine (formerly known as "poetical or amorous addresses") was written by the imprisoned Charles, Duke of Orleans.

Stay over Arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda increased by 10% during 2012. Thanks to you, our VALUED travel agents!

“On behalf of the Antigua Hotels and Tourism Association (AHTA) I would like to express sincerest appreciation and gratitude to our travel agents in the USA and Canada for your unfaltering support in selling Antigua and Barbuda. Because of your efforts, the destination realized a very successful Holiday season. We are very proud of your efforts and look forward to strengthening our relationship, which will ultimately lead to our continued success.” Andrew Hedley, General Manager, Jumby Bay Resort & Chairman of the Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association

The Manager’s Cocktail Reception

“I would like to express our sincerest thanks to all of our travel agents for your patronage. During the last year, visitor arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda grew significantly and we attribute this to your hard work and commendable performance. Together we will continue to accomplish great things. Keep up the good work.” Ted Isaac, General Manager, Grand Royal Antiguan

“We have had a phenomenal year at Jolly Beach. On behalf of my staff, I would like to thank all of our energetic and dedicated travel agents for your sales efforts in promoting the destination. These types of results do not happen without a great deal of effort on the part of everyone, and I want you to know how much we appreciate your hard work.” Vernon Jeffers, General Manager, Jolly Beach Resort and Spa

“I want to thank all of our travel agents for your efforts in selling the destination. You have set high standards and we are fortunate to have you on our team. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with you in the future.” Fabio Giorgi, General Manager, The Inn at English Harbour

Love By The Numbers

A man of ordinary talent will always be ordinary, whether he travels or not; but a man of superior talent will go to pieces

if he remains forever in the same place ~ Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies,

jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness, and fears. ~ Glenn Clark

Trust me, it's paradise. For mine is a generation that circles the globe and

searches for something we haven't tried before.. And if it hurts, you know what? It's probably worth it

~ Alex Garland

BUZZ PIRATIONS: Inspiration for today’s valued A&B Specialists

BUZZPIRATIONS A&B BUZZ

A&B BUZZ – February, 2013

The Urban dictionary defines the “Bucket List” as the list of things we want to do before we die. The term comes from a Rob Reiner movie called "The Bucket List" (2007) in which two terminally ill men (played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson) go on a road trip to do the things they wanted to do before they died. Sadly, the old man passed away with his bucket list still containing several unfulfilled desires. Those of us who enjoy travel know that our travel experiences can be a life changer. Since making resolutions is de rigueur this time of year, why not resolve to take steps that lead to adventurous and memorable trips all year long? That said, we hope that A & B is at the top of your list of exotic locations that you will visit and present to your clients in 2013.

In this issue, we present the destination in a fun and exciting way to help you realize your dreams and maximize the opportunities inherent in your A & B experience. In 2013, if the goal is to take the vacation of a lifetime or just to make the most of even a seemingly prosaic trip, our Top 10 List provides tips and ideas about A & B that will help you keep your resolve and add considerable value to your vacation experience. We will also introduce you to many local residents who will continue to live their dreams in 2013. If you have already written your bucket list, after reading this month’s issue you may want to take this opportunity to review it. See if there are new challenges you want to add-on. If so, add them in. Check to see if all the items listed are still relevant. If not, remove them.

What do you stand to gain by this exercise? Significant clarity and focus on what you want from your life experiences in 2013. It’s an invaluable exchange. This year, the question should not be “who is going to let me”. Rather it's “who's going to stop me?” Live Your Dreams in 2013! Sincerely, Derede Samuel-Whitlock, Director of Tourism, USA Antigua and Barbuda

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About the BUZZ: A & B's liveliest lifestyle

magazine has taken off with hundreds of readers who

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A&B BUZZ – February, 2013

Editors TravelPad A&B BUZZ

Contributors to the BUZZ

• Yendie Lynch • Carolyn Punter • Dean Fenton

• Erica Henry-Jackman • Annette Michael • Elizabeth Mason

T

Cover: Keyonna Beach Resort Bali Bed

A&B BUZZ – February, 2013

BUZZWorthy Events 2012 A&B BUZZ

From To Flight # Departs Arrives Frequency New York (JFK) Antigua (ANU) 673* (nonstop) 8:35 a.m. 1:40 p.m. Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat Antigua (ANU) New York (JFK) 678* (nonstop) 3:05 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat

Schedule for the new service (all times shown are local)

• Black History Month – Further information Tel: 268-462-3586 Cultural Division

• Exhibition at Museum of Antigua & Barbuda- 'Fantastic Finds – Archaeology in Action'. Further information Tel: 268-462-1469/4930

• Exhibition at Harmony Hall. Further information Tel: 268-460-4120 or visit www.harmonyhallantigua.com

• Field Trip organized by the EAG. Further information Tel: 268-462-6236 Environmental Awareness Group

• Jolly Harbour Yacht Club-Valentine's Day

Regatta. Further information Tel: 268-461-6300 Tommy Patterson www.jhycantigua.com

• Royal Ocean Racing Club Caribbean Offshore Race. Further information Tel: 268-460-1799 or visit www.antiguayachtclub.com

• Wadadli Day – Cultural Extravaganza. Further information 268-462-3586 Cultural Division

February

• Exhibition at Museum of Antigua & Barbuda – 'Fantastic Finds – Archaeology in Action' cont'd. Further information Tel: 268-462-1469/4930

• Exhibition at Harmony Hall. Further information Tel: 268-460-4120 or visit www.harmonyhallantigua.com

• Field Trip organized by the EAG. Further information Tel: 268-462-6236 Environmental Awareness Group

• Antigua Yacht Club – Antigua International Laser Open. Further information Tel: 268-460-1799 or www.antiguayachtclub.com

March

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In A&B, Love is in the air! Romance just seems to be everywhere -- whether on land or sea, at sunset or sunrise. The Jolly Harbour Valentine's Regatta is in full swing and is just one place for couples to share ardent moments.

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picture perfect ways to love a&b

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picture perfect ways to love a&b to love a&b

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To help resolution setters keep their goals in sight, many A&B hotels are getting in on the action. As always, one of the most popular resolutions is the vow to get fit and stay healthy. Whether guests want to hit the gym more, try out shore side exercise routines, or sample healthy gourmet meals, many hotels are getting more innovative in enticing guests to get fit while vacationing in A&B. From in-room workout videos, beach side boot camps, Pilates and kick boxing there so many fitness offerings for guests who are mindful of their waistlines and overall health while traveling.

Jolly Beach – Boo Insane Beach Body tra “Get Into the Beach o 2013 and will launch at 25-29, 2013. The five (5 program challenges “ca physical limits against a beautiful scenery in the

Curtain Bluff Antigua Tennis W Join "Fiery" Fred Stolle personality as well as h incredible week of tenn Channel calls it "a true

Jumby Bay Resor Couples can enlist a pe instructor for an indoor

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ot Camp ining is part of the resort’s new

of It” fun and fitness program for t Jolly Beach Resort & Spa, April

5) day Insane Beach Body ampers” to push their mental and a backdrop of some of the most e Caribbean

Week, May 11-18, 2013 e, renowned for his gregarious

his 18 Grand Slam titles, for an nis here Curtain Bluff. The Tennis

fantasy tennis holiday."

rt - Yoga ersonal yoga r or outdoor session.

Sugar Ridge – State-of-the-art Gym State-of-the-art gym helps guests get in shape with a special spa and fitness program that includes personal training sessions, fitness classes, and spa treatments. Guests can also check out the eucalyptus steam room, whirlpool and relaxation lounge. whirlpool and relaxation lounge.

Hermitage Bay – Organic Garden Spa Though it is often said that the entire Hermitage Bay experience feels like a pampered massage, you may also enjoy actual spa treatments influenced by the ancient eastern concept of Chakra at the Garden Spa

The Inn at English Harbour Organic Gardens Healthy eating has been revamped with the inclusion of fresh produce from the vegetable garden on property. In addition to healthy gourmet meals and exotic cocktails from the bar, guest room mini-bars feature local products such as coconut water, protein bars, yogurt and other healthy snacks to help guests maintain healthy eating habits.

The Inn at English Harbour The Inn at English Harbour Organic GardensOrganic GardensThe Inn at English Harbour The Inn at English Harbour

hotels helping guests stay healthy -

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

Galley Bay – Open Air Spa For the utmost in relaxation and pampering, Indulge Spa, a spacious, multi-level hideaway features three massage areas, two of which are rustic, open-air treatment "pods". The pods are rough-hewn, airy massage decks draped with sheer, white curtains for privacy, and both overlook the bird sanctuary and lagoon, in keeping with Galley Bay's emphasis on couples’ luxury.

Galley Bay Galley Bay – Open Air Spa St. James’ Cl Exploring the und a snorkel and fin Center and dive array of sea life a Mamora Bay, for windsurfing, saili equipment are co their stay at St. J

St. James’ Cl St. James’ Cl

Verandah Resort – Mini Golf The newly designed miniature golf course located in lush garden lagoons is fun for the entire family! Guests will enjoy an active experience near the tranquil waterfalls, serene ponds and tropical landscape. With challenging golf holes and more, they can follow idyllic pathways to an unforgettable Caribbean adventure, for either a day or night tee off.

Verandah Resort Verandah Resort – Mini Golf

Nonsuch Bay Resort Sailing Lessons Learn to sail at this resort that offer all levels for the entire family. NonsAntigua is the ideal Caribbean dest sailing, kite boarding, and water spo Water sports are at the very heart o ethos where conditions are outstan boat sailing and kite surfing.

NonsuchNonsuch Bay ResortSailing LessonsSailing Lessons

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lub - Watersports dersea world is easy - just pick

ns from the onsite Watersports right in! Check out the vibrant

awaiting right offshore in azure r those want to try their hand at

ng or kayaking. Lessons and omplimentary for guests during

James’s Club.

lub - Watersports

rs lessons at uch Bay,

ination for ort vacations.

of the resort’s ding for small

hotels helping guests stay healthy -

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

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top Sting Ray City

PhoneOffice: 268 562 7Fax: 268 562 7806 Email [email protected]

ATV’s This is the ultimate fun-Travelling along dirt tra two seat ATV’s, enjoyin interior. No experience

Antigua Rainfore Antigua Rainforest Can Fig Tree Drive Wallings Antigua www.antiguarainforestEmail: [email protected] Tel: 268 562-6323 Fax: 268 562-6364

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w.ag a.com

-for-all riding experience. cks and animal trails on one or

ng the natural beauty of Antigua’s required for this adventure.

est Canopy Tour nopy Tour

.com

Wadadli Nature Park Lyons Estate, St. Phillip’s, Antigua W.I. Email: [email protected] Tel: Dave- 779-2895/783-9776

Frigate Bird Sanctuary, Barbuda Contact: www.barbudaful.net

South Coast Horizon Located on the south coast of Antigua, you start your morning looking at the rays of the sun over the hilltops. During the day you may laze on the beach, snorkel at Cades Reef, or find a variety of other activities in the area to add to your vacation fun. You can choose to do a tour of our palm garden -8 species- , our walk through bird cage, and pyramid park. Or take an eco-tour of the lagoon ending in a hike on Goats Head Hill.

adventures best tours -

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Adventure Antigua Eli's Famous Eco Tour Eli's Eco tour is the best way to explore the beautiful North Sound area amongst the 22 exquisite off shore islands. You will spend the day learning about the eco systems and the history of these amazing islands in this protected area.

Rosmac’s Garden Tour Located in the coastal village of Johnson's Point, a secret treasure awaits you in the garden of Rosalyn Simon. She leads you through her herb garden and as she shares her wealth of knowledge of each plant, you can't be helped but get drawn in by her passion for each and every herb.

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adventures best tours -

Reservoir Range Clay Pigeon Shooting A morning’s clay pigeon shooting, a lunchtime picnic by the reservoir, an afternoon mountain biking and some archery to finish up the day before drinks in the bar. All this and more is on offer at Reservoir Range – the most things to do in any one place in Antigua. Guns of different sizes and low recoil cartridges ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all participants around the twelve stations. Four towers have been constructed, from which shooters can shoot at high and fast flying ‘birds’.

Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 268-481-5021 www.nationalparksantigua.com

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

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top 1 ANTIGUA CARNIVA

Antigua Carnival 2013 w August 6th.

3 Nonsuch Bay Foo Nonsuch Food and Win November to Decembe and rum tastings, cook Caribbean street food, special tasting menus. day of food and wine e annual event.

2 Antigua & Barbud The festival is held at th Station. The main aim o promote the utilization o well as to support the re Magic Mango Culinary C with representatives from prestigious resorts.

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AL 2013 will take place over July 27th -

od and Wine Festival ne Festival, which runs from

er it features wine, champagne king demonstrations, gourmet

guest chef appearances and The event culminates in a full

vents. This festival will be an

4 Sports Fishing Tournament The Antigua and Barbuda Sports Fishing Association has been in operation for over 20 years, As a club there are two events a year - The Annual Sports Fishing Tournament which takes place in May or June each year, and the 'Best in the West' in Jolly Harbour each November.

6 Sailing Week April 27-May 3 2013 http://www.sailingweek.com

5 International Film Festival Antigua Barbuda Held annually during the month of November. IFFAB is managed by The Motion Picture Association of Antigua and Barbuda (MPAAB), established in 2009 by local film enthusiasts who came together with the sole purpose of forming an association for the mutual benefit of all its members.

da Mango Festival e Christian Valley Agricultural

of the Mango Festival was to of mangoes and other fruits as

ejuvenation of the station. The Competition is an exciting event,

m Antigua & Barbuda’s most

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7 Classic Yacht Regatta April 18- April 23 2013 The Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is one of the world's premier classic yachting events, which brings together a spectacular collection of yachts and people for some superb sailing and great fun in the ideal conditions of the Caribbean.

8 Urlings Seafoo Held four times dur the island. The eve with traditional loca like seafood pot pie

9 Independence Homecoming Festival The celebrations consists of a week of celebration, competitions, parades, expos and food fairs – for all Antiguans living both home and abroad and residents of Antigua, as well as visitors. It’s a fantastic week of celebrations for all families in both Antigua and Barbuda. Whether, living, born in or visiting Antigua for the first time, you will be sure to find activities for the entire family.

10 The Jolly Harbour Valen The 20th anniversary of the Joll Regatta will be celebrated in 20 that anniversary the Regatta is international event, attracting sa the world. It will be a vibrant ya beginning on Friday morning an Sunday. Pursuit races will be o be comfortable on a fleet start li more relaxed nature of pursuit rvery inclusive with racing suitab

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festivals od Festival

ring the year on the south coast of ent serves up the “bounty of the sea” al dishes as well as noveau creations e, lobster bisque and conch lasagna.

ntine’s Regatta

ly Harbour Valentine’s 013 and in conjunction with

set to become a major ailors and others from around achting event with racing

nd continuing on Saturday and ffered for those who may not

ine, or who simply prefer the races. The Regatta will be

ble for all types of sailors.

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

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top 1 Turner’s at Turne

Turner's Beach Bar sits the west coast, a few m Breakfast, lunch, and d yellow umbrellas on wh fresh seafood, salads, w casually on a blackboar which is just fine, as the local Wadadli beer.

2 OJ’s at Crabb Hill This delightful bar is dir Beach. Located on the which, on a clear day w view of Montserrat's act mainly of local seafood grilled and served with s and fresh local vegetab Caribbean Kontiki bar a

Life is truly a beach if it comes with a beach bar. The beach bar is truly a “watering hole” experience. It is a great spot to grab a drink, snack or lunch during the day, or to drop by in the evenings for a barefoot romantic sunset dinner or nightcap. For day trippers, this is the place to relax in a lounge chair under the umbrellas and shade of the Casuarinas or palm trees, take a dip, or venture out to try a range of water-sports.

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beach bars er’s Beach

s on a great expanse of sand on miles south of Ffryes Bay.

inner are served beneath sunny hite plastic furniture. The menu of

wraps, and burgers is written rd. The service is not swift,

ere's always time for another

3 Bumpkins Beach Bar & Restaurant With wonderful views across the harbour, Bumpkins is a favourite hangout for visitors, locals and yachties alike. Established over 13 years ago, it has become a great place to spend a few happy hours with live performances.

5 Pink Sands Beach Bar at Low Bay, Barbuda Along Luis Beach, eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Pink Sand Beach Bar while enjoying one of the most beautiful views in Barbuda. Contact Freeston Thomas in advance to order your choice from fish, lobster, and other seafood, served with traditional Barbudan vegetables. Alternatively, just pop in for a drink at the bar, where beer, wine, soft drinks, and water are available to quench your thirst on a hot day.

4 Chill Out Hut Beach Bar The menu is a feast of Caribbean specials – grilled lobster, garlic shrimp, chicken, fish, ribs plus burgers, salads, potato wedges - the portions are generous and the prices realistic. They serve their beers ice cold, blend their rum based cocktails with fresh local fruit and their Banana Pina Colada is to die for!

Beach ectly located on Crabb Hill

southwest coast of Antigua will amaze you with a breathtaking

tive volcano. OJ's menu consists dishes (lobster, snapper, etc.) steamed potatoes, rice or fries

les. Prices of this casual are very reasonable.

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SeabreLocated Marina, SEnglish H there is n cocktails Café/Geeverythin mouthwa

La Tartaruga Bar and Restaurant at Long Bay Located on the Southern part of Long Bay Beach, this is a perfect day out whether on holiday or living in Antigua and looking for an escape from the usual hangouts. The off beach snorkelling is well known as probably the most accessible, and with its shallow waters, that run out for some distance, the perfect place to let kids splash in the water, while you relax back in the shade.

Dogwatch Tavern at Jolly HThis is a real English pub and a grea light lunch before hitting the Jolly Ha Centre or exploring Antigua and then tavern’s great selection of beers on and extensive CD collection.

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beach bars eeze Bar & Restaurant right on the boardwalk at Antigua Yacht Club Seabreeze has one of the loveliest locations in Harbour. Open from 6:30am every morning,

no better place for breakfast, lunch or evening s and nibbles. Established since 2000 this great elateria offers fast service but not fast food, ng is freshly prepared and the menu offers a atering array of dishes.

Uncle Roddy’s Beach Bar & Grill Located at Princess Diana Beach, the proprietor Uncle Roddy was Princess Diana’s personal bartender. He proudly displays photos taken with the princess during her visits to Barbuda.

Harbour at location to grab a arbour Shopping

n return to enjoy the tap, tropical drinks

Coconut Grove at Dickenson Bay Located on the beautiful Dickinson Bay amid lush tropical palms trees, the rustic open air restaurant is the perfect setting through the day. For breakfast enjoy an omelette, pancakes, fruit plates or even the full monty, and for lunch a salad, burger, catch of the day or lobster. The beachside location means you can walk straight off the beach in your bikini, and back again once satiated.

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

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top Sandals Mediterr

Five full-service bars inclu bar. It also has six pools a scuba pool.

Verandah Resort Unwind at the island's larg indulge in rejuvenating an signature Spa Tranquility o fitness center.

Galley Bay Resort If you prefer your water fl and its distinctive waterfa your strokes, and plenty o for reclining, reading, and staying in our Gauguin cot swims in your own plunge where you'll enjoy great v and wildlife.

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best pools ranean Village

uding our signature swim-up pool and five whirlpools, with a separate

t and Spa gest free-form swimming pool or nd exotic treatments at the resort's

or work out in a state-of-the-art

t and Spa lat, not fizzy, the free-form pool

all provide ample space to practice of deck space and chaise lounges

d soaking up the sun. If you're ttages, you also can enjoy private

e pool overlooking the lagoon, views of spectacular native birds

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

Curtain Bluff At the back of the beach, surrounded by palms, lies the swimming pool with its two lap lanes, the basketball half-court, two courts for bocce and two more for shuffleboard. Swimming pool (with two 75-foot lap lanes).

Coco's Hotel Guestrooms open to balconies with sea/pool views, some featuring outside showers.

Coco Bay Resort Seafront Pool

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Blue Waters If the sea isn’t your thing or you just fancy a change, there are plenty of pools to dip into. An exclusive adult’s only pool is located close to Pelican House for those looking to avoid the crowds. If you’re travelling with the family you’ve two pools to choose from, the main pool situated by Veronica's bar and close to The Palm restaurant is a great place to relax with a cocktail, and the beachfront pool which offers stunning views over the Caribbean Sea.

Nonsuch Bay The 50ft infinity swimming po wraparound verandas, and lan of privacy and relaxation. to

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best pools Grand Pineapple Choose from a whole slew of organized activities in Antigua, such as water aerobics, to get your blood pumping. Sunbathe and mellow out at our two freshwater pools.

ool, large pool terrace, ndscaped gardens are a haven

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

Jumby Bay Located at the end of Jumby Bay Beach, the resort's newest pool exudes tranquility and sophisticated outdoor relaxation. With its infinity edge, this lagoon-shaped pool gives the illusion of blending with the ocean.

Interview with Erna-Mae Tonge of

“[Dame Gwendolyn’s] contri-bution to life in Antigua & Barbuda is exemplary. She served in the Senate and was regarded as the voice of women in Antigua. More than a partisan figure, she was clearly a national figure…she was an Antiguan treasure…”

Auntie Gwen

Erna-Mae Tonge

Hesketh Tonge

A Affectionately known as “Auntie Gwen”, the former teacher, senator, author, Specialist Supervisor of Home Economics and television show host, Dame Gwendolyn,is described by many as a hero of the nation who has, in some way or the other, touched the lives of Antiguans and Barbudans at home and abroad. We asked Dame Gwen’s daughter, Erna-Mae Tonge about the new venture that bares her mother’s name: A&B BUZZ : Please share with us some of your most treasured memories of your Mother, the late Dame Gwendolyn Tonge. These would be the moments when she spoke about, her childhood, her time at school - which she loved - her head mistress Miss Mary Piggott - and first years as a teacher. Mammie was a a great story teller with a marvelous sense of humour. All the stories had a humorous side - even if it told of struggles and hardship. A&B BUZZ : At what age did you begin to show an interest in the culinary arts and how much involvement did you have in your mother's "culinary empire" over the years? I was involved in the culinary arts from a very early age as Mammie did a lot of catering and ran many cooking/cake decorating classes. We had to help her when she did the catering and to be around to help when she catered. However, my real "interest" (I was not interested before - I just had no choice but to help) began while I was in College in Florida and had to feed myself... I

became the big chef amongst the International Students on campus. I began paying closer attention and being "willingly" involved when I returned home. In fact, I never prepared a full meal until that time. A&B BUZZ : Aunty Gwen was a beloved national icon in Antigua & Barbuda, how do you plan to preserve your Mother's legacy? Naming our catering efforts after her; carrying on with Cooking Magic and eventually re-publishing her cook book with coloured photos and her life "story". A&B BUZZ : You recently launched Auntie Gwen's Edibles, what is the vision behind this new venture? How has the concept been received? This was conceived the day before Mom died while relaxing with my husband Trevor and would not have come to fruition if she had passed. I later mentioned to my siblings who were very supportive - and one Sunday, while at our home in St. Kitts we finalized the name and concept and Auntie G's Edibles was born. A&B BUZZ : What's on your wish list for 2013 as you continue to grow the business and solidify Aunty Gwen's legacy? I simply hope and pray that all that I do in her name will be worthy of it.

f Auntie G's Edibles

name will be worthy of it.

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

A&B BUZZ : Coming from a background in politics, what inspired you to explore a career in the culinary arts? To be honest what makes the story so unique is that I was so happy working with the mayor at the time, Rudolph Giuiliani until an unfortunate incident occurred involving my then 7-year-old son, Kingsley. I worked so hard for the administration, on call 24 hours a day 7 days of the week responding to emergencies throughout the City. After the incident I made up my mind that I would be an entrepreneur I felt as if I could work that hard and tirelessly for someone else then I would be able to do it for myself. I didn’t quit immediately, but I knew I eventually would. I wasn't a very good cook at the time and never in a million years would I think I would be able to cater parties for hundreds better yet thousands of people wit the ease that I do now. A&B BUZZ : How did you get this "dream" going? I was married at the time and always liked to entertain. We had just purchased a very old brownstone in Harlem and cleaning out the kitchen I stumbled across a barely held together cookbook that peaked my interest. I started throwing more parties and trying different recipes but always adding my own flair to it. I realized soon after that I loved cooking even more than working with the Mayor. I also realized how important

presentation was to me. I'll never forget a close friend at the time that was at one of my dinner parties said I should be doing this professionally and secured me my first catering job for 500 people at an annual Harlem Christmas Tree lighting. A&B BUZZ : You create the most unique & extraordinary presentations, is there a special process used to develop your displays? From the moment I started catering - presentation was always important to me. Beautiful flowers and adornments turn boring platters, baskets , etc. into a real crowd pleaser. Using roses as skewers, jewels, sand and water displays . Every event I do I try to stretch my imagination as far it can go. I find that my clients appreciate that I don't only provide them with great dishes and creative canapés but they also are guaranteed a show stopping event. A&B BUZZ : How has your re-connection w/your Antiguan & Barbudan roots influenced the flavors of your culinary creations? From the time I was a little girl I always loved all of our Antiguan staples. My grandmother always jokes that as a child I loved steam king fish and fungi, Johnny cakes and souse. It's all of these flavors and seasonings that dictate how I cook today. I have never shied away from my

Interview with Chef Shawnee Braggs

Chef Shawnee Braggs-Knight

Antigua Cioppino by Chef Shawnee Braggs Knight

Caribbean roots because as we all know Antiguans are the best cooks in the Caribbean. I am known to fuse all different cuisines but I do notice that my best and well received dishes are reflective of my Caribbean background. A&B BUZZ : How has cooking allowed you to live your dreams? Cooking has allowed me to be my own boss and to show my children that when you love what you do, it is incredibly satisfying. I have gotten the chance to cook for so many celebrities including - Wyclef Jean, Wendy Williams, Dwyane Wade, Malaak Rock, Chris Brown and Ashanti to name a few. I have had the opportunity to cook for the Prime Minister of Antigua, Hillary Clinton, David Dinkins and Ruby Dee. Cooking is what I do, it’s who I am and will always be. The best part about my career even through the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur - I wouldn't change a thing. Creating beautiful food is my passion! A&B BUZZ : What is your dream for 2013? A negative situation that happened to my son turned out to be the best thing that happened to me and my family. My cooking talent is a talent that I protect and I want to continue to cultivate because it's a God given talent I had no idea I had .That is why I am make sure to thank God each and every day for it.

s-Knight

A&B BUZZ 02.2013

Tiger Woods and Lindsay Vonn recently vacationed together in A & B

Rochelle Wiseman of the Saturdays announced her engagement from Antigua

Secret L ve in A&B

Last Issue’s Reader Question

Have you or a client attended a local church in A & B. Tell us how your/your client learnt more about A & B’s culture through this church experience.

Congratulations! Last Issue’s Answer of the Month:

I am drawn to Caribbean music, be it calypso, soca, reggae, jazz, or salsa. I have attended several churches in the Caribbean and have discovered that the same beats that move bodies outside the church have now also entered the realm of religion. In one instance, I attended a revival service under a big tent in a small community. About a block away, a local tavern was pumping local music and it was clear that religion and pop culture influence and challenge each other. This is one of the things that make the Caribbean culture so rich and riveting! Jonathan Pryce, Richmond, VA

A&B BUZZ – February, 2013

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A&B BUZZ – February, 2013

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Antigua & Barbuda The Beach is Just the Beginning

Tourism Newsletter February, 2013