FRC 2004 - 2005 Annual Report
ANNUAL REPORT
April 1, 2004 - March 31, 2004
Introduction
This 31st year was mixed and unusual in that the FRC operated for seven months with an Officer-in-Charge, in the person of John Robert Lee, whose substantive position was Information Manager. This occurred with the conclusion of the three-year contract of the Executive Director, Kennedy Samuel, who proceeded on an overseas training programme of his choice in September.
The Board members assisted and several short term contracts were concluded to allow the programmes and projects of FRC to continue at a normal pace. In addition to continually discovering the pitfalls of owning a very old building, the Board ensured that better support services were in place, the working conditions improved, procedural systems were put in place, and plans for future projects were initiated.
PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS
1. Research and Documentation
Flower Festivals Publication (Reprint) - This publication by Msgr. Patrick Anthony, received a thorough review and update by the author and was edited by Robert Lee and at the end of the year was nearing readiness for publication.
Cultural Heroes Research and Publications Project- A Proposal has been submitted to the National Community Foundation for a vacation project (August 2005) employing tertiary level students in field research and writing of booklets on four Cultural Heroes.
Baseline Survey on La Woz and La Magwit Groups- This is essentially a CDF project which will be administered by FRC with funding from CDF and hopefully from the National Community Foundation. The Survey will provide core baseline data on all Flower Festival Groups in Saint Lucia from which future growth or decline of the societies can be measured. The needs of the groups for survival and development will also be ascertained for CDF purposes. Also to be implemented during August 2005.
Digitalisation of Old Photographs- A Jubilee Trust Fund Project, also to be administered by FRC during the school vacation period will see the photos of Leo "Spar" St. Helene and MacDonald Dixon, scanned and stored on CD for archival purposes.
Researchers- A Memoranda of Understanding with Prof. Claire Robertson of Ohio State University, Dept of History, was considered during this year in preparation for support of her application for funding from a major private sector company foundation in the US. If successful, this will be a major project for Saint Lucia and FRC.
A One Day Symposium on Life long learning was held in December 2004 in collaboration with Kentry JnPierre, an FRC member and former Board member, in fulfillment of part of his requirements for a Post Graduate degree in the UK.
Alan Lomax Agreement - The FRC entered into dialogue with the Alan Lomax Archives in New York which resulted in an agreement with the Archives who would lodge CD copies of the very important St. Lucian Collection of the internationally-acclaimed researcher Alan Lomax, at the FRC. This will be a significant addition to the holdings of the FRC, and will be of tremendous benefit to cultural workers and researchers.
Lucian Kaiso - Ongoing research into the development of the calypso art form in St. Lucia resulted in the publication of the 2004 edition of FRC's annual Lucian Kaiso magazine. On this occasion, the periodical was produced in collaboration with Accela Marketing. However, despite the widely acclaimed high quality of the magazine, actual sales were disappointing. This highlights the need for improved marketing strategies at the FRC. This new issue and back issues of the Lucian Kaiso magazine are available at the FRC.
Manje Kwéyòl (Culture Kit Food booklet)- After many years this publication, edited by Kennedy ‘Boots" Samuel and Anthia Joshua, finally appeared in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture through the Biodiversity Project. It was very successful in the market place and all 1000 copies were sold out by the end of the year. A reprint is planned in time for the 2005 Creole Heritage Month. The official launching was held in early December 2004 at FRC.
Masquerade Project- This three year regional project came to a conclusion. Funding support had been received from UNESCO through the Government of Italy. Mrs. June King-Frederick has been the project Co-ordinator. Presentation of Roderick Walcott's play, "The Devil at Xmas" during December at the Comprehensive School was the major event concluding the project, and street masquerade returned with the cooperation and support of several banks and other private sector entities. Final Reports on the St. Kitts/Nevis/Dominica/Saint Lucia aspects of the project were prepared and submitted as well as the Project Manual, an output of the project. Conclusion of the funding for the project has not, however, meant a cessation on the part of FRC to encourage and support revitalization of the masquerade arts in Saint Lucia.
2. Education
Walaba Competition- At the suggestion of the Prime Minister, a Walaba Committee was formed to establish a revival of this traditional sport in as many villages as possible with a final tournament scheduled during Creole Heritage Month 2005. The Committee began its deliberations during the last quarter of the year.
School Visits- A total of nineteen (19) local schools visited for the year and 2 overseas.
Sarafina Education Programme - The Sarafina Education Programme was completed in this period with the successful implementation of all objectives. This programme, a follow-up to the successful Sarafina production, was aimed at raising the level of national awareness among the youth on many of the important social issues highlighted in the production. The Education Programme was funded by the Poverty Reduction Fund. It consisted of selected excerpts of the musical, alongside a few improvised scenes, linked by an animator into a participatory education session. This programme was performed to 15 school and community groups around the island. Some of the abuses for which solutions were offered included social intolerance, violence, crime, youth alienation and abuse of females.
Post Common Entrance Programme- Plans were prepared and a proposal submitted to the National Community Foundation for support of a Post-Common Entrance Programme of activities for those students during the two or three weeks following completion of the exam when they have little to occupy them in their school settings.
3. Heritage Tourism
SLHTP/OPSR- A proposal was submitted to the St. Lucia Heritage Tourism Programme (SLHTP) for support in developing a Feasibility Study and Business Plan for Heritage Tours at FRC. A Diagnostic Study was commissioned, completed, and presented to the Board and staff, and a request to move forward with the next phase was submitted to SLHTP. While the process is time consuming and lengthy, it is hoped that the end result will be of benefit to FRC in its quest for sustainable income generation.
Heritas- FRC continues to be a member of Heritas, which is now responsible for the Heritage Tours Brand as well. Board Member, Leslie Charles is the FRC nominee to Heritas and he has been consistent in his participation and leadership within the organization.
4. International Relations
WACC- With the publication of Manje Kwéyòl, FRC's obligations to WACC (World Association for Christian Communication) have been met. Membership in WACC was renewed and contact with the head office in the UK resumed.
College/University Visits- St. Olaf's College of Minnesota returned to Saint Lucia for their biannual educational visit, ensuring their timing coincided with Nobel Laureate Week. Their entire schedule was arranged by FRC and FRC was also the venue for most of their sessions. A rewarding experience for both parties and potential promotion for similar institutions in the US.
The Young Leaders of Point Fortin Senior Secondary School, Trinidad were hosted by the FRC on February 8th and 9th, 2005. The Trinidad students were part of a Kwéyòl Workshop conducted by the RBTT Young Leaders of Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School. The workshop was part of an RBTT Young Leaders project of Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School depicting their 2005 theme, "Strengthening Caribbean Society: our vision, our culture, our people." A video documentary has also been produced with the help of NTN.
Seychelles Minister's visit - On July 14th, 2004 the FRC was honored to host a familiarization visit to the institution by the Minister Designate for Education and Youth in the Seychelles. He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in our Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (and FRC Board Member) Dr. Didacus Jules. They were met by an FRC delegation including selected Board and Staff members. Useful discussions were conducted around possibilities for cooperative cultural activities in the future.
5. Events Management
Creole Heritage Month- In October, FRC led the way in the organization of this month's traditional activities. A number of activities were held at the FRC headquarters, including a La Magwit lunch on October 20th, and an Arts & Crafts Week which began on the 18th.
Many visitors, among them school groups, visited FRC and were given tours of the crafts stalls by the crafts workers who were present. On Sunday the 24th, FRC member Shirley Edward organized a tea party. Three television discussion programmes on St. Lucian kwéyòl were organized, recorded and aired. They were put in place by FRC member Lindy Ann Alexander. Led by Alisa Glace-Daniel, Finance Officer with the FRC, Tee shirts were produced with the masquerade logo for Jounen Kwéyòl.
La Wenn- The annual competition was introduced to the public in 2004 with a Press Launch at the FRC on Wednesday October 20th. Remarks were made by FRC Chairman Mr. Victor Poyotte. Mr. Paul Lorde, a Board director gave a background to the La Wenn Kwéyòl, and introduced the contestants. The Cable & Wireless representative presented a sponsorship cheque. All present participated in the La Magwit lunch which followed.
The competition was held at the National Cultural Centre on Friday October 29th. The six contestants were well supported by friends from their communities. The eventual winner was Mrs. Marie Rose Charley of Mon Repos. Form all indications, the 2004 La Wenn was one of the best organized and attended in recent years. The prize-giving ceremony was held at the FRC on Saturday December 18th.
Bouyon ek Kallaloo- This was held at the FRC grounds on International Creole Day, October 28th. A number of performing groups entertained visitors, and creole lunch was available.
Jounen Kwéyòl- This 20th anniversary celebration of Jounen Kwéyòl was held on October 31st in the communities of Anse la Raye, Babonneau, Mon Repos and Belle Vue, Vieux Fort.
Sesenne Descartes - A visit to Mme Sesenne Descartes by an FRC delegation led by Msgr. Patrick Anthony resulted in the designation to FRC of the responsibility for the oversight of Mme Descartes' intellectual property. FRC would also be responsible, with the government, for the further development of Sesenne's residence into a cultural venue. At the end of this year FRC was working with Mme Descartes' family on the organization of a "Sesenne Day" to celebrate Sesenne's 91st birthday.
Folk Heroes Recognition at Independence- A new event on the FRC calendar and one to be repeated annually, this year was inaugurated with a ceremony at the Castries Cemetery at the burial site of Harold Simmons, and followed with a ceremony at FRC to honor Simmons and Dame Marie Descartes, (Sessene). Well attended and executed, it set standards for future ceremonies.
A Wall Board at FRC is planned to list all those entered into the Folk Heroes grouping, and a design for cemetery grave markers for those deceased has been approved.
Emancipation Day - The FRC collaborated with the Cultural Development Foundation, and the UNESCO Culture Sub-Commission to produce a successful drumming and poetry festival entitled "Sounds of Freedom," in celebration of Emancipation Day 2004 at Fond D'Or. The title had come from a separate proposal by the FRC that was submitted to the CDF and the UNESCO Culture Sub-Commission. The three institutions took a decision not to have competing activities, but to come together to organize a joint national activity.
Folk Party - The Folk Party package was sold to two major events during the period. These included the regional meeting of the Caribbean Shipping Association, and an OECS Ministers' meeting in July. Thanks must be extended to June King-Frederick for her management of this important income-generating activity of the FRC.
ADMINISTRATION
1. Governance
Board of Directors- The Board met on eleven occasions. The additional meetings were required to proceed with planning and implementation of the Work Plan. The Board and Staff also held a Retreat late in the year to establish the Work Plan for 2005/6 and priorities. The Board Meeting of October 9th, held at the FRC, was followed by a special retreat. Members of the FRC who were members of the educational committee joined the Board for a review session. Those gathered were also addressed by Mr. Michael Walker who presented a paper entitled "Possibilities at the Folk Research Centre." A general discussion followed on the future of the FRC. The Chairman indicated that the Board would consider Mr. Walker's proposals and be in touch with him.
Committees- The following committees were formed to carry out the planning for various activities, and all were active during the year:
§ Creole Heritage Month
§ Walaba Committee
§ Lucian Kaiso
§ Membership Committee
§ Education Committee
§ Fundraising Committee
Conference Committee
2. Property Management and Development
Security - Security continued to be a problem due to the isolation of the building at Mount Pleasant. By December it was found necessary to hire a full time security service, subsequently reduced to several nights a week and later restored to full time when another break-in occurred. Considerable damage was done to doors and windows during the three major break-ins during the year although little of value was actually stolen. The costs of repairs had to be covered by FRC as the deductible on the Insurance was not exceeded by the value of items taken or damaged. Consideration to returning to an electronic security system as a less costly measure was under review at the close of the year.
Plumbing - The decades old septic tank gave indications of failure and estimates were being sought at year end for replacement and for full restoration of operations of an upstairs toilet which was leaking. In addition, new piping for distribution of water to various parts of the building was required to replace deteriorating galvanized pipes from an earlier era.
General Upkeep and Maintenance- From October through December 2004, a full time Handyman was employed to effect a series of minor repairs, repainting, and other general enhancement features to the building and the grounds. While this could not be continued in 2005 because of costs, part time assistance was contracted on a daily basis as needed.
Grounds - One of the tasks undertaken by the Handyman was a French Drain in the grounds at the back of the building. This should take care of the constant flooding and muddy conditions of the area during rainy periods. Some flower and plant beds were restored with new plants and all bushes were trimmed and pruned for better flowering.
Gifts - Several firms and individuals continue to support the FRC and its programmes. In October, Courts made us a gift of a micro-wave oven.
FRC, in turn, donated an award to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College Graduation ceremony.
3. Human Resource Development
Mr. Kennedy Samuel, Executive Director was serving on a contract which terminated on August 31, 2004. At that time, Mr. Samuel chose to pursue a four month training Fellowship in Italy. The Board did not renew his contract and he completed his responsibilities as Executive Director for the period April- August 2004, during the year now under review.
Mr. John Robert Lee, Information Manager on a part time basis became Officer-in Charge from September 1, 2004 and remained in that position through the period under review. Gradually, he moved from part time to almost full time with the added responsibilities.
Ms. Felicia Anthony, Secretary, proceeded on maternity and vacation leave in July and returned in November, having had a second daughter. She was reinstalled at FRC as Administrative Assistant and commenced her pursuit of a Degree programme in Management Studies with the University of the West Indies.
During her leave, Ms Alisa Glace Daniel took up the temporary position of Secretary, and as her skills and qualifications, (a B.Sc. Management and Finance -First Class Honours Degree from UWI) were assessed, she was offered the position of Finance and Administration Officer from October. She has assumed all of the financial tasks formerly performed by the Board Secretary on a voluntary basis, and in addition has placed the entire accounts system on computer with the capacity for prompt and accurate reports. This has greatly enhanced the support services of FRC. She is also able and expected to assume selected projects for management.
Ms Persia Leo served as Office Assistant until December 2004. Effective January 2005, Ms Ashline St. Martin assumed that position and in addition to the usual role of an Office Assistant, has been instrumental in School Visits as well. She is no stranger to FRC having served as Tour Guide in earlier days, supported the FRC during the Secretary's leave, as well as assisting the Masquerade Project Coordinator during the more intense periods of the project activities.
During the period of the part time Information Manager, Robert Lee's service as Officer-in-Charge, it became apparent that the Documentation Centre required attention that he could no longer provide. Thus, in October, Ms Safiya Martin assumed the position of Assistant to the Information Manager. Without any previous training or experience, Ms Martin has acquainted herself with the operations and handles visitors and students. She also spent approximately six weeks on a day release programme of training at the Hunter J. Francois Library at SALCC between January and March.
4. Website: The FRC and a number of local cultural organizations established their own websites in this period through an OECS project aimed at enhancing cultural communication in the sub-region. Staff member Felicia Anthony has been assigned specific responsibility for the development and management of the website. She has been assisted by Richmond Felix, designated web master of the whole project.
The FRC website has already received compliments for its simplicity and the ease of navigation by users. We have also been commended for the consistency with which the site is updated.
5. Marketing and Promotion
General- Promotion was carried out primarily through the advertisements for various activities held at FRC or organized by FRC. Through Press Releases and other coverage of events, FRC made a concerted effort to restore its name and image in the public eye.
6. Membership Expansion
During the year thirty-one (31) new members registered, and twenty-three (23) renewed. Membership participation in the work of the FRC now is commendable. Many members call or write to express their level of satisfaction with the communication link the FRC has set up with them. A Newsletter was designed and has re-established the link with members. Two issues were released during the year.
7. Stakeholder and Contractual Agreements
Heritas- Rental Contract with Heritas for one office was renewed during the year.
Jubilee Trust Fund- Similarly, a modest rental agreement with JTF for space within one office was also renewed for another year.
8. Documentation Centre
The major work before the Documentation Centre staff is the restoration of the library catalogue. While much has been done (albeit very slowly), much remains to be done. In the meantime, the Documentation Centre continues to serve users who come regularly to the FRC for reading and research. Students from all sections of the education system, persons seeking information on kwéyòl, St. Lucian cultural figures, our local customs and traditions, as well as visitors - make up our clientele. On a daily basis about 3-6 persons come to the Documentation Centre. On special occasions, like Creole Heritage Month, the number of our visitors increases greatly.
In September, the Information Manager took up the post of Officer in charge of the FRC. He tried, as he could, to help with the library even as he undertook the management responsibilities of the FRC. In October, a library assistant (Ms. Safiya Martin) was hired. With no previous experience, she was able to keep the services of the Documentation Centre running.
In January, Ms. Martin began a six week attachment to the Hunter J. Francois Library of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, where she received valuable basic training.
New library shelving was acquired, and the ground floor premises of the Doc. Centre generally rearranged. Some new texts have been acquired in various subject areas. Plans for the restoration of the audiovisual collection are in preparation.
LIST OF BOARD AND STAFF
Board of Directors:
Victor Poyotte, Chairman
Embert Charles, Deputy Chair
Patricia Charles, Secretary
Geraldine Lendor, Treasurer
Patrick Anthony, Founding Director
Paul Lorde, Director
Virginia Albert, Director
Leslie Charles, Director
George Alphonse, Director
Staff:
Kennedy Samuel, Executive Director
Alisa Glace Daniel, Finance and Administration Officer
John Robert Lee, Information Manager
Safiya Martin, Library Assistant
Felicia Anthony, Administrative Assistant
Ashline St. Martin, Office Assistant
Sandra John, Cleaner
June Frederick, Project Officer (Part-time)