On Tuesday, 30th June 2015 at 9.30 a.m. National Treasures of St Vincent and the Grenadines hosted a media launch at the UWI Open Campus on Murray’s Road, Kingstown. The UWI was chosen for the historic significance of the site.
The non profit organisation held the event to introduce itself to Vincentians and to let them know what National Treasures is all about. National Treasures of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ focus is primarily the intangible, but also the tangible cultural heritage of St Vincent and the Grenadines. The organisation registered as a non profit company in November 2014 and the Board of National Treasures is made up of the following: Chairperson: Anthony Theobalds, Deputy Chairperson: Deirdre Myers, Treasurer: Tony Regisford, Secretary: Carlita Daniel, Director: John Horne; and Honorary Member and Special Advisor: Sir Errol Allen.
A t the launch a background of the National Treasures and its work was given and an excerpt shown from the Treasure Trove- part of an interview with Alston Beckett Cyrus about his career, history with carnival and singing calypso then soca; and the change from pre-Lent season carnival to June/July thirty eight years ago in1977.
Then the guests at the launch were treated to a rare unplugged performance from our own National Treasure- Alston Beckett Cyrus. ‘Beckett’ performed several of his best loved tunes, accompanying himself on the guitar. He began with his recent hit song ‘Mo Rush’ released to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of his song ‘Gal a Rush Me’. Then he sand ‘Vincy Mas’ and asked for requests from the audience, which came thick and fast. He sang St Vincent, I Love you, Love is the Answer, Hezikiah, Sweet Soca, Teaser and Carnival History. Beckett’s performance was loudly applauded by the very appreciative audience.
The Prime Minister, Dr the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves came to the launch straight from the air- returning from an OECS meeting in Grenada to deliver some remarks and give support to National Treasures. He talked about the Government Endorsement of National Treasures and of the need for such organisations and the work they do.
Dr Gonsalves also restated his wish to see History as a core subject on the curriculum in our schools for all students from primary to secondary up to CXE level.
The Prime Minister also pledged his personal support for National Treasures and gave a cheque for his membership donation; while urging all Vincentians to support National Treasures by donating and or joining the organisation to assist with its work.
Dr Gonsalves then assisted in unveiling the National Treasures’ logo on a standing banner generously donated by Multigraphics. He was then presented with a polo shirt printed with the logo. Polo shirts were also given to Mr Derry Williams of the Bank of SVG who has provided financial assistance to National Treasures and Ms Desiree Richards of Metrocint General Insurance Services Ltd. who sponsored the media launch.
The launch ended with light refreshments which included some items which we no longer see such as arrowroot starch cakes and lime balls.
Many individuals, business and organisations assisted both to make the launch a success and to make National Treasures of St Vincent and the Grenadines a reality.
National Treasures of St Vincent and the Grenadines: Protecting, Preserving, Promoting our Vincentian Cultural Heritage.