 |
The Ascension Island Newspaper |
|||||
|
||||||
|
||||||
|
The Ascension Island Newspaper |
|||||
|
||||||
|
||||||
Thank
You|
Well, I guess this is the last 'Thank-You' the 1st Ascension
Guides will be publishing towards their Fundraising.
We could not have made our target if Mr. Patrick Taylor, Monarch Agency
in the U.K. had not donated £4,000.00 to us. This really and truly
saved us from panic attacks as our time for departure was drawing near
and the last thousands of pounds would have been hard to come across.
The other person who also needs thanking is Last Sunday, 2nd June was our final Fundraising at the Two Boats Club. It proved to be a successful day and we came home with a total of £820.18.
We have reached our target of £11,000.00 and we could not have done that without the help, support and donations of our wonderful Community here on Ascension and overseas contributors. Below you will find how this money will be spent:-
Many, many thanks to the parents who helped in anyway. Not forgetting
Gerwyn our DJ, Two Boats Club Management, Johnny the Auctioneer and the
many others who let us use venues for free or borrowed even an ice keg...
to make this successful for us to go and camp with the International Guides
in the West Midlands for the very first time. Now we can take a break
from fundraising and get in readiness for our departure on 25th July 2002.
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
|
Dear Friends,
A beginning of another month! Visitors were welcomed into our Family/Parade service last week and I like to'Thank' the Guides and Jane for leading the hymn on their recorders "The Wise Man Built His House Upon The Rock". Nervous or what? Next month Jane has invited all attending the Family Service to her garden to share plates of eats and to 'chill out' as this will be the Guides last Parade Service for the next two months due to their trip to the U.K.
Family/Parade Service last week was about Jesus' stories that he told to his disciples. He made them understand stories about the wise man and the foolish man. What is it about? He introduces it as a story about people who hear his words and choose whether or not to act on them. However, the details of the meaning are not spelt out. It is up to the listeners - the story will do its own work. We all like a good story, why else do so many of us watch Coronation Street, Eastenders, Emmerdale etc... Why else do children love the story of The Three Little Pigs - these are good stories and when we love a story it just sticks in the mind. Some children may think lessons at school can be boring when it's a particular lesson they does not like but given a subject that they like they love that teacher forever!
That is what makes Jesus' teaching different - he does not tell people what
to think, he make them think, and entertains them at the same time.
We too can think for ourselves about the stories of Jesus and the story of our
salvation handed down to us. The world needs to hear the greatest story ever
told.
That's all for this week. Jane will be taking her turn on this page next week.
God Bless
Cheryl
Now that we are mostly British Citizens again, we should all enjoy the
Democratic rights and opportunities available to any British citizen. Mainly
that is that we by common consent elect the people that make the laws on
our behalf. That we have the finances raised by taxation spent in accordance
with the wishes of the majority, and if those in government offend the public
by ignoring their wishes we reserve the right to dismiss them from office
by regularly held public elections. This is what democracy is. There should
be no taxation without proper representation, the freely elected representatives
of the people holding the real executive power and the government doing
the bidding of the peoples elected representatives. With that in mind I
would remind you of the model of democracy proposed by the Steering committee.
Ascension
Island
|
ASCENSION DAY FAIR 2002Raffle Prize Draw1ST PRIZE Mr Geoffrey Fairhurst 2ND PRIZE Mr John Cavanna 3RD PRIZE Mr Richard Henry Mr Fairhurst generously donated his prize of five hundred pounds tot he Ascension Day Fair 2002 Fund. Many Thanks from the Ascension Day Fair Commitee, 2002. The ADF monies have now been totalled by Raxa Sukhtankar and a summary is as follows:
|
Butterflies on Ascension
|
| Right a Male Long Talied Blue |  |
In the past few weeks there have been a number of sightings of unusual
butterflies on the island. These butterflies are described either as 'large,
black with white spots' or 'large, mostly brown with some spots'. They
are probably both the same species - the Diadem, an African butterfly
species that is known to be a migrant and has occurred on Ascension before.
The male is black with large white spots on the wings, the female is brown
with smaller black and white spots. Here things get a little confusing,
as the female Diadem is an excellent mimic of the African Monarch - a
species that occurs on St Helena and has probably also occurred on Ascension.
 |
 |
|
Male Diadem
|
Female Diadem
|
Other unusual 'spring' migrants on Ascension in the past few weeks have included several bird species - Cattle Egrets, House Martins and Swallows have all been seen.
If you see any unusual butterflies or other wildlife, Richard and Tara at the Conservation Centre will be interested to hear about them, telephone 6359 or email conservation@atlantis.co.ac
Vet Trainer for St HelenaSt Helenians will soon have the opportunity to participate in a vet-training course, which is being run by the Agricultural and Natural Resources Department at Scotland. A Vet Trainer will be arriving to provide veterinary training to anyone who is interested, free of charge. Whilst this will in no way compensate for the services which could be provided by a full time, fully qualified vet, it will be of great benefit to the 600 plus animals on the Island. Wendy Clingham, Chief Agricultural and Natural Resources Officer said it was hoped that the Vet Trainer could stay for a 12-month period, but this was not possible. However, the Trainer will be looking at the future needs of the Island, veterinary practices and or need for a resident vet and also running additional training courses or whatever she considers necessary. Following her visit she will put her recommendations to the St Helena Government and the Department for International Development (DfID).
Wendy Clingham, The RSPCA and A&NRD have put a lot of effort into caring for animals
and the vet-training course should further enhance such services.
A&NRD is very positive about the course, which covers quite a lot of topics for both farm animals and pets. The course was designed in the UK, based on recommendations by the Department. So far, 15 persons have registered, comprising of personnel from A&NRD, the RSPCA and from the general public, but the Department is hoping that more will express an interest even if the course has already started. Wendy feels that there is a bonus for participants as "Trained persons could look at it (being able to perform some veterinary practise) as a small business" whereby they could offer their services to the public for a small fee. Some years ago, ANRD did this with their spray service and it was a success. Persons will be looking at no less than 10 to 12 hours of training per week and hopefully this time will be granted to interested employees although Wendy said: "We will definitely have some training outside of working hours." This will probably take place three nights per week for those who are unable to attend during normal working hours. The course will be mostly practical including operations and accompanying the trainer on fieldwork, although there will be some short exams. In general Wendy sees it as: "A very balanced course." Some will already be knowledgeable in certain aspects that will be taught, so they can either participate as a refresher, or only take |
part in sections that are of interest to them. It is hoped that the majority
of students will take on the full course and complete all modules. ANRD has started a short induction course so that the course can commence as soon as the Vet Trainer arrives. So - what will people really gain? "Personal development, and in as far as people in businesses are concerned-the skill to manage their own resources. St Helena is very short in such skills so even six months training will be an achievement," said Wendy.
Arthur March,
ANRD has been working towards the establishment of an animal surgery that can be used for farm animals and pets. At this stage the finishing touches are being put to the building, which comprises of three rooms: the surgery, the recovery room and possibly an X ray room. This project will be completed by the time the Vet Trainer arrives so that much of the training can take place in the building. In the Pipeline Whilst nothing is definite the Department is also looking at providing some assistance to train someone further in veterinary studies. Wendy says that if someone shows potential during the course they could be given this opportunity. A student with a St Helenian mother is currently studying in the UK to become a vet. She will be visiting the Island later this year, and as part of her training she will be doing six months voluntary work with animals. " There is also a St Helenian ex Student who was once a youth Trainee at A&NRD. She left the Island and is also studying to become a vet and has been in close contact with the Department. The departure of the Vet Trainer will not mean the end of training in this field. Wendy is confident that in the future the Department will engage the services of other trainers to provide refresher courses. Public Relations/Information Office |
Certificate Awards
Certificates were presented by His Excellency Governor Hollamby on St Helena Day 21 May after the ecumenical service. The framed certificates were signed by Governor Hollamby and each one highlighted how many years individuals had been working in the Public Service. The majority of the awardees were present on the day to receive their certificates whilst those who were not in attendance will have theirs sent to them. SHG has many dedicated employees who have served in the Public Service for long years, and it was felt that recognition should be given for this which will serve as a long standing memento.
("Getting the certificates ready for presentation.") |
Governor Hollamby
|
Your Health this WeekConvert your kids · Praise children when they try something new or finish their
veg, and reward them at the end of the week with a small gift. |
Good Health recommends: TOMATOES
* Why have them? |
LETTERS| From the Editors:-
Penny Peters
Hello. I dont know if anyone out there remembers the Nex familiy, Georgetown
Well i remember the island well and wish I coulod get back, buts I am wondering if anyone out on the island plays a computer game I am working on some terrain for the above terrain which maybe a I am also wondering who to contact with regards to information about
As a side line anyone know where to get plans of Fort Hayes, Thornton
contact me on georgenex@aol.com Hello I am very interested in corresponding with anyone from either Ascension Island. or ST. HELENA or for that matter any other island in that group. Through reading about that area of the world I have developed a keen interest in daily life in so remote a land. I am a 59 yo., grandfather of three, avid reader and a map collector. I have been showing my grandkids where my latest interest lies and they asked if I “talk” to anyone from there. If you can help me with a connection I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your time, Frank in Wisconsin USA
PS: I actually really started out looking for a correspondent on Tristan da Cuna…but I am unable to find an email address to write to for help. Wednesday 05/29/2002 9:14:49pm Wednesday 05/01/2002 9:46:02pm |
Monday 05/27/2002 3:38:27pm Saturday 04/20/2002 10:34:56am Thursday 05/09/2002 9:36:45am Name: neil fraser |
| Letters
to the Editor can be sent to editors@the-islander.org.ac |
The Met Office Weather Report |
 |
Statistics for the week ending {date}.
| Max (deg C) | Min (deg C) | Rainfall (mm) | |
| AIRHEAD | 29.5 | 24.0 | 0.2 |
| TRAVELLERS | 28.3 | 21.7 | 5.5 |
| GEORGETOWN | - | - | - |
| RESIDENCY | 27.0 | 18.7 | 8.6 |
| ST. HELENA | - | - | - |
| FALKLANDS | 7.5 | -1.6 | 9.6 |
| UK | 28.0 (Jersey- Sat) | 1.0 (Hereford- Tues) | 28.2 (Wales-Wed) |
Ascension swell forecast: Southerly 1 metre. Sea temperature: 26 C
ASCENSION ISLAND: More cloud around at times this past week and
giving a few showers. Certainly feeling less humid these days though temperatures
well up for the time of year.
UK: An unsettled start to the week with some hefty showers around but fine and warm by the weekend before more rain and showers with some thunderstorms on Sunday.
FALKLANDS: A mixed week, some sunshine but also spells of rain or showers, these wintry at times.
he expected conflagration failed to materialise. The flames were just prominent enough to guide us to where Dangerous' BBQ was under way though, something to do with the 'bit for luck' in the flammable liquid department I believe. Overall though, a successful and enjoyable evening.
Now I know it is gradually getting a bit cooler now, but the only fleeces I expect to see on Ascension are those still attached to the sheep.
I have to admit that I was struggling badly to find something of interest
to write about this week, so had just decided to end this week's Metchat
at this point. However, I thought I'd take a minute to browse the latest
issue of an 'in-house' publication and came across a rather interesting
and thought provoking article submitted by a Met Office Health & Safety
representative. I have summarised it for your enjoyment (or otherwise).
A team of scientists from the Department of Forensics at UCL removed a row
of seats from an underground train to undertake an investigation into cleanliness.
Despite assurances that underground trains are regularly thoroughly cleaned,
the scientists discovered the following.
From an analysis of the surface of the
seat they found:-
4 types of animal hair (human, mouse,
rat and dog).
7 types of insect (mostly live fleas).
Vomit originating from at least 9
different people.
Human urine originating from at least 4
different people.
Human excrement
Rodent excrement.
Human semen.
When the seats were taken apart and
analysed they found:-
The remains of 6 mice.
The remains of 2 large rats.
1 previously unknown species of
fungus.
Now wash your hands please!!
Meanwhile, down by the riverbank…
As it's the holiday weekend, Ratty's got his feet up eating one of Granny's
delicious fruit buns. Much better than writing Metchat!!
More ramblings soon.
Hash Hares The Major
Hash Hounds Skipper, Barley Buck Eye, Eeyore, Tit Pecker, Thunderthighs, Eeyore, Ratboy, Gilligan, Woodswrecker, Fruitbat, Uncle Fester, Rob (Lights Out), Jos, Canori
It must have been the only dry spot on the Island that day. Comfortless Cove lay harbour to the flock of hounds and hares, gathering for their weekly fix. The Major did us all proud with one of the best demos ever produced for a New bee. The on on was given and the first of many red herrings were encounted. The Major chuckled. The first 360 completed, the on on was continued to the cemetery. A quick rest and on up to the second circle where The Major gave a quick warning, that this was the last point at which anyone wanting to drink beer in a hurry, should depart on the shorter route. Two pair of sandals showed strong determination that they were potential hashers and braved all to continue with the pack. On on to some of the most deviously set trails ever. We looped and hooped and backtracked and lacked track, much to the Majors delight. The youngest of the New bees fell prey to gravity and claimed her first hash scar and a piggy back ride from mum to the next circle, but then braved all and continued in good spirit. The trail snaked and winded past Sentry posts and high cliff edges, Tit Pecker as usual doing the do out front. A final circle overlooking the Cove, ended in a dash for the beer and past the dead for the second time. A very technical and well-laid fun hash. Hats off to The Major. Well done to the New bees for completing the trail and setting a new trend in hash attire. A great barbeque followed. Excellent hash. The flock, after much deliberation, welcomes to the fold, 'newly named, Lights Out'.
Next Week Saturday 8th June 2002
Rat Boy and Thunderthighs
From the Road (track) to Mars Bay, (past Cotar Hill) behind the Airhead
Receeding Hare Line Saturday 15th June 2002
Volunteers Needed
Rat Boy
Hash Scribe
EDITORS : Penny Peters
The New Islander Office, Fort Hayes, Georgetown, Ascension Island.
Tel/Fax 00 + 247 6327
E-Mail: editors@the-islander.org.ac
Internet Team: Laura & Mark Handley, Gavin Yon, Richard Crowie, Richard
White
Deadline for all contributions is 6.00pm on Monday
All articles © copyright 2000 The Islander Newspaper. All rights reserved. |
Please visit our sponsor:  |
