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The Wallblake House, after seven years of labour-intensive craftsmanship amidst dedicated fundraising drives, now stands beautifully restored and available for community appreciation and use. . . .
2003/02/02 - Click to enlarge pictures

The exquisite home built in 1787 by William Blake formed part of the ninety seven acre sugar and later cotton plantation, which also included the Old Cotton Gin (now housing Ranny & Joe's Icecream shop) and the area now used by The Wallblake Airport. Many of the records of plantation were kept in St. Kitts and unfortunately got destroyed, so mainly through word of mouth recounts and sketchy details, was the history of Wallblake House recaptured.

The house was left to the Catholic Church by a Marie Rey Lake in 1959. (See her picture below right.) No restoration efforts were undertaken until The Wallblake Trust was established to lead the fundraising drive. Wallblake House, originally built by hand, was also painstakingly restored detail by detail, by hand, as close as possible to what is known to be the original design and colour scheme. The original wood that formed the upper portion of the main house and the roofs was hardwood from Guyana, and the restoration effort also used this material in replicating the design. The intricate patterns in the decorative wooden features throughout the main house are exquisite and great pains were taken to maintain the original beauty.

Thanks to the dedicated fundraising efforts of the Wallblake Trust and generous support from the community and friends of Anguilla, approximately US$240,000 was raised with an outstanding US$28,000 still remaining to be covered. Special appreciation is extended to members of the Wallblake Trust, Iain Smith, the Architect and Tony Sheehy, the Building Contractor and all other key players for giving of their time and efforts completely free of charge.

Donations and volunteers are still very much welcome as the preservation effort of one of Anguilla's historical treasures continues. Two projects remain to complete the restoration�the lighting for the interior and exterior and the furnishings for the house. Volunteers are needed to act as Tour Guides and Coordinators for various committees such as fundraising, functions and historical research. Even if you can volunteer for a limited time like six months to a year, your contribution would be much appreciated. If you wish to find out more information about fundraising and volunteer opportunities please contact any one of the following: Marjorie at [email protected]; Kathy at [email protected] or Fiona at [email protected]

Web site: www.wallblake.ai

Story and pictures by Janine Edwards

Live Shoal Bay Webcam

January 6, 2002 to February 1, 2003

Saturday, February 01, 2003

Anguilla...the perfect spot for lovers.

Valetine's Day is a big deal in Anguilla, both for locals and for tourists (because we get so many couples, including honeymoon couples). Restaurants put on special menus and add live music. Reservations are recommended. For example, see below the special from Cocoloba Beach Resort.

Cocoloba Valentine�s Dinner Menu

Start with: SHRIMP ROSETTE SERVED WITH COCO MO�S COCKTAIL SAUCE or TWO FLAVOURED SOUP: LEEK & PUMPKIN TOPPED WITH COCONUT CREAM or MINI CAESAR SALAD WITH HERB CROUTONS

Followed by: LOBSTER THERMIDOR or CHICKEN CORDON BLUE or BEEF TENDERLOIN WRAPPED IN BACON AND SERVED WITH A ROAST PEPPERCORN SAUCE or PAN SEARED GROUPER SERVED WITH LOBSTER SAUCE TOPPED WITH A BUTTERFLY SHRIMP

All entrees with Anguillian rice and peas or scalloped potato, and chef's choice of steamed vegetables.

Complete with: WALNUT & CARROT CAKE A LA MOOD or STRAWBERRY SWIRL ICE CREAM SUNDAE

One Glass of White or Red Wine or Sparkling Wine Per Person. US$40.00 per person plus 10% service charge. Reservations: (264) 497-8800

Cocoloba Beach Resort: Valantine�s Romance Package - February 14th Weekend

Whether you are celebrating Valentines Day, a Promotion or an Anniversary, or how about just a surprise for your significant other. Maybe you�ve just married and want to make your wedding night extra special before departing on your honeymoon. Accommodations for two in their ocean front chalet In � room sparkling wine upon arrival; (sparkling cider may be requested instead of sparkling wine). Full breakfast for two the next morning On additional nights, buy one entree and get a second one of equal or lesser value free. (Choose from either lunch or dinner) US$140.00 plus 10% tax & 10% service charge

Upgrade your room package with a romantic candle lit dinner for two and then dance into the night with your sweetheart. US$80.00 per couple + 10% service charge. Or � Dine a la carte - Pick your lobster by weight from their new 30,000 gallon aquarium and the chef will prepare it to order.

Email: [email protected] - Tel: (264) 497-8800
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Sophie Dehove Hair Design

Sophie Dehove, who used to run the hair salon at Sonesta, then at the Malliouhana Spa, has opened her own salon in Anguilla. It is located in the Taino Wellness Center in South Hill (look for the sign). Sophie does men's and women's hair. She is great. 264.497.7834. Open 10am to 6pm.

Email: [email protected]
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Visitors Since 1985!

Kevin & Sharon Neuer write:

Just returned to Kansas from Anguilla, weather here in Kansas City is a miserable -4F this morning with 15MPH winds straight from the Canadian prairies.

We first visited the old Merrywing Resort in 1985, have been back every year to relax and enjoy, most often at Meads Bay, La Sirena. A picture is attached (see right). Note the overcrowding at Meads Bay....
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Internet Caf� Voyage

If you wish to stay connected with the world online in a comfortable, relaxing ambience, check out Internet Caf� Voyage. This newly opened facility is located in the Caribbean Commercial Centre in the heart of The Valley and offers internet access and supporting computer services including: printing of documents and digital photos, scanning of pictures and documents, typing services and access to online travel reservations services. The office features to 24 hour high speed internet service on its four work stations which are suitably poised for privacy.

The cool air-conditioned setting, dotted with comfy leather chairs and antique furnishings make this internet caf� elegant. Coffee, water, juices and light pastries are served at very reasonable prices. Prices for internet/email access are as follows: US$2 for up to 15 minutes; US$4 for half an hour; US$7 for 1 hour. Printing pages or photos costs US$1 per page. Memberships are available for US$40 for 10 hours usage. Opening hours: Monday � Saturday 9am � 6pm and Sunday 2pm � 6pm. For more information contact Manager Cora Benjamin (pictured here) at Tel. 264-498-5551; Fax 264-497-0290 and email [email protected].

Directions: across the street from the post office. Starting from the airport parking lot, take the only exit and turn left, then left again and drive past the airport entrance. Turn right at the roundabout and watch for the Caribbean Commercial Centre on the left. Units # 5 and 6. Upstairs and to the left upon entry. There is a sign.
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Thursday, January 30, 2003

Can I Bring My Pet?

Barbara Kingsley Hirtle asks Here's why I'm writing and to ask if you can help: we'll be arriving on 2/27 for 3 weeks and staying on Shoal Bay. We'll be bringing our 3-month old puppy. We understand we'll need to provide proof of rabies and that he is infection-free. Are there any other requirements for entering?

If you want to bring your pet to Anguilla you will need to contact the Government Chief Vetenarian Dr Patrick Vanterpool to let him know your date of travel and type of pet you will bring. He will issue you a import permit which is v alid for entry for up to one month after it is issued. If you want to bring your pet to Anguilla you will need to contact the Government Chief Vetenarian Dr Patrick Vanterpool to let him know your date of travel and type of pet you will bring. He will issue you a import permit which is valid for entry for up to one month after it is issued.

The animal must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a Veterinarian in the country of origin stating that the said animal is free from any infectious or contagious disease and has not been in contact with any animals suffering from the same for the past sixty (60) days. The animal must be vaccinated against rabies more than one month but less that one year before the date of importation.

You would bring all the health documents and the import permit when you travel to Anguilla and show them to Customs. Customs would then call the vet to check the documents upon your arrival or usually just verify that your documents are in order and let the pet enter. The tel. # for the Agricultural Dept. is 1-264-497-2615 and the fax # is 264-497-0040. You can contact Dr. Vanterpool at these #s. They hardly use email.
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Tuesday, January 28, 2003

Real Estate

Credit Cards and Currency Conversion.

Diana Kinsell of St. Paul Minnesota asks: I did not know, until I read your newsletter, that we can use credit cards at two of the grocery stores in town. When we use our credit card, do they run the amount through in US dollars or EC$? If it is EC, then Visa will charge an amount to convert it to dollars.

Good question. Here is our answer:

The grocery stores' prices are listed in EC$ but if you pay with a credit card they convert the EC price to US$ so your card is actually charged in US. The conversion rate that merchant's use is often slightly worse (for the customer) than the bank rate so although there is not a special conversion charge per se, the conversion rate used may end up costing you a little more. And there may be other charges. It's best to ask at the grocery store just before you pay as different merchants use different conversion rates and policies.
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Monday, January 27, 2003

Junior's Glass Bottom Boat: Marine Ecology/Eco-Tourism Children's Camp

Let Captain Junior Fleming introduce your children to the underwater marine life of Anguilla aboard his 27 foot glass bottom boat. During this camp participants will see the wide variety of marine life in Anguilla's tranquil blue waters and learn the importance of preserving marine ecology for future generations. Junior has over 20 years experience with glass bottom boats and teaching about the marine life of Anguilla.

Cost $75.00 per child for half-day session and lunch. Ages 7 to 14. Space is limited to 10 students per session so sign up early. Discounts available to groups of 6 or more. Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Meet at Gwen's Reggae Grill on upper Shoal Bay at 8:45 AM.

Life Jackets and Snorkel Gear Provided by Junior's Glass Bottom Boat. Bring your bathing suit, sun block and towel. Lunch provided at Gwen's Reggae Grill. Pick up time 12:15 PM at Gwen's Reggae Grill. More info: 264-497-4456
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Sunday, January 26, 2003

New web site: Seacliff VIlla

David Yates has a new web site for his villa on Back Street that has the overwhelming views of Road Bay.
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Saturday, January 25, 2003

New web site: Harbor Lights

This waterfront inn in Island Harbour has a new web location. They have four, fully-equipped efficiency apartments with full-size stoves and refrigerators, the people are nice, and the prices are very reasonable.
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Friday, January 24, 2003

New to Anguilla? Comfort Prepare Money Groceries Phone/Net Driving Manners More Tips

Trattoria Tramonto Web Page

This is the web page for the Trattoria Tramonto restaurant and Oasis Bar on Shoal Bay West (not East) between Cove Castles and Blue Waters. Open for lunch and dinner.

You could try La Tagliatella della Nonna Maria (My Grandmothers beef and pork ragu on homemade egg tagliatelle, US$ 22.00). Closed on Monday. 264.497.8819
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Thursday, January 23, 2003

Anguilla's Fourth Flower and Garden Show

Feb 15 and 16, 2003. Wallblake House and Grounds. Sat 10:30 to 5, Sun 12 noon to 5. Sponsored by the Anguilla Beatification Club. Categories of exhibits: Fresh flower arrangements, indigenous flowers, arrangements of folliage without flowers, arrangements using a single fresh flower, dried arrangements, miniature arrangements of fresh flowers, creative arrangements. Also grounds displays (size 20' x 12'). Read about a previous show.
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Anguilla Forum: Carib On-line

Nathan's Villas, Meads Bay

Take your choice of a 2 bedroom house or a duplex with two 1-bedroom apartments (together or separate). All bedrooms air conditioned. Walk to Meads Bay.
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Tuesday, January 21, 2003

Beaches.ai: Over 30 Anguilla beaches.

Realistic, Practical Building Ideas and Advice

Interested in building your dream home in Anguilla? Take advantage of free consultancy services offered by Sunset Homes, part of the Sunset Group of Companies Ltd. Experienced Designer and Builder Ian "Sugar George" Edwards would be happy to meet with you to discuss your ideas and assist with any questions you may have about building in Anguilla. Informal discussions. No obligations. Email [email protected] for further information.
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New at Bowgreen: Swimming Pool

Bow Green, a charming private villa located just 2 minutes walk from the gorgeous white sands of Rendezvous Bay, announces the addition of its swimming pool, set in the privacy of its lush tropical gardens. Lovely 3 bedroom villa with airco in bedrooms and all the conveniences of a modern home. Special rates offered for one couple.
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Monday, January 20, 2003

Internet Yellow Pages: All known Anguilla sites.

Garden Party: March 1, 2003

Mark your calendars for the 20th Annual St. Gerard's Garden Party to be held at 7:00 PM, Saturday, 1st of March on the grounds of St. Gerard's Church and Wallblake House. See any member of the parish for tickets (US$20 per person) and are available at the door (limited - first come, first serve), or email Steve Donahue at [email protected] for ticket information/tickets.
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More on Airport Expansion

Another article from The Anguillian.
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Wine Tasting Every Tuesday.

Vinissimo in West End has a wine tasting on Tuesdays at 12 noon. 264.497.6812
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Sunday, January 19, 2003

Villas.ai: Private villas for rent.

Sonesta Closed

The Sonesta resort in Anguilla was sold in late November, 2002 and will be replaced with a new development. No information is available for publication from the new developers, but they do have a telephone: 264.498.7000.
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Friday, January 17, 2003

Police Week Celebrations

Police Week begins January 26, with a service at St. Mary's, a radio address by the Governor, and a domino competition at police headquarters. Jan 27: lecture, cricket match, spelling bee, radio address. Jan 28: Quartet competition at St. Mary's. Jan 29: Police Drama Concert at Landsome Bowl. Jan 30: Senior Citizen's lunch, Police Calypso show at Landsome Bowl. Jan 31: presentation at the hospital, Laugh a Laugh concert at Landsome Bowl. Feb 1: Police walk, Dinner and Ball at Cocoloba, and the raffling of a Montero.
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Thursday, January 16, 2003

Menus.ai: Restaurants and menus.

Azure Villa, Shoal Bay

Andy Wojack has a new web page (created by our friend Leroy Hill at Webdesigns.ai) for the brand new luxury villa that he and his wife have just completed on the shore adjacent ot Shoal Bay.

"Villa Azure is a brand new architectural masterpiece with over 8,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space spread over four levels and five decks and terraces. As you relax you will be mesmerized by the sound of the waves at this waterfront retreat, overlooking fabulous Shoal Bay Beach. You will be swept away by the amazing natural beauty, privacy and total comfort. Rent up to all four fully air-conditioned bedrooms, enjoy the vanishing edge pool, spacious decks, spa, thatched roof bar and steps to the sea. The villa is a Mediterranean influenced gem and all bedrooms face the soothing azure ocean and open on to a deck or terrace."
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Wednesday, January 15, 2003

Offshore Sensations Web Site

Jack Tramonte and Meredith Leighton moved to Anguilla one year ago.They started a charter boat business geared to bring people from the other islands to Anguilla and now have three boats servicing the islands. Click link above for their new web site.

They have Zippity Do Da, a 42' diesal powered Chris Craft, No Fear a 38' Cigarette performance boat, and Scorpion a 40' offshore performance boat. Along with their partner Eric Drai formerly of Anguilla, they have put together three fine boats.

Jack says the Prickly Pear charter seems to be the most popular.

Captain Jermaine Gumbs from the Forrest spears fish for the guests while Jack, Mere and Eric prepare shrimp and fruit salad, tomatoe buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil and olive oil for appetizers along with baked potatoe and fresh caught fish cooked on the beach.
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Stott and Co.

Web site for this offshore company management firm that was established in Anguilla in 1978.
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Tuesday, January 14, 2003

Hotels.ai: All the resorts/hotels/inns.

Potential Gap in 2004 Air Service

As this editorial in The Anguillian points out, there is a likelihood that American Eagle will withdraw their ATR-42 aircraft from service at the end of 2003. For several years American has been warning the Caribbean islands that it will be switching to the ATR-72, which requires a longer runway than we have in Anguilla. Anguilla has a project to extend the runway, but it is not scheduled to be completed until Sept 2004. This leaves a potential gap of nine months in connecting service to American Airlines.
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Monday, January 13, 2003

Calendar: Events, holidays, activities

Coco Plums Restaurant

Here is a link to Coco Plums dinner menu for 2003. Notice that they now have a children's menu.
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Colville Petty: A Change of Diapers

Another column by Colville Petty on Anguillian politics has been posted on The Anguillian web site.
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Submit a News Story.

Beachshack Site Update

Mary Ann's construction web site has been updated with two pictures sent by recent visitors.
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Sunday, January 12, 2003

Anguilla Questions? Email the Tourist Board at [email protected] or the Hotel Association at [email protected]

Offshore Laywer: Wigley and Associates

John Wigley and his company have a web site for their Anguillian business, which does company administration, asset management and offshore investment
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Thursday, January 09, 2003

Lynne Bernbaum, Artist

Lynne has changed the name of her Stone Alley Art Studio to Lynne Bernbaum Art Studio. Along with that, her website is now www.lynnebernbaum.com.

Just published on the website, inside the STUDIO, you will find a new series of oil paintings about 'Dominoes', a popular game on Anguilla and a popular & ancient game in many parts of the world. The playful Domino compositions are built on top of canvases initially painted with the standard domino dots...see if you can pick out the dots in each painting. Also, the pure set of giant dominoes make a kinetic composition within itself.

Finally, Lynne would like to announce an upcoming exhibition in France on September 6, 2003. It will be held in the seaside, picturesque town on Binic along the Brittany coast.
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Tuesday, January 07, 2003

Bricks Are Going Fast

The Anguilla Tennis Academy campaign to raise runs by selling "bricks" is already in high gear. We just put up the announcement on Sunday and and in one day $1000 more bricks were sold. Monitor their web page to see the list of donors grow.

Also, the tennis.ai web site has been updated with scans of the architectural drawings for the complex.
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Italiano: Un attico su Shoal Bay!

If you speak Italian, click the link above for the Shoal Bay Penthouse web site, translated for you.
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Monday, January 06, 2003

Build Your Own: Beachshack

Devonish Art Gallery

Devonish presents an exhibition of paintings and sculpture by Marie Longhans Jonsson. Opening reception, Saturday Jau 11, 2003. 5:30-7:30pm. Devonish Art Gallery, West End Road, 264.497.2949
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Baby Dolphin Born

December 26, 2002

A bottlenose dolphin calf was born at Dolphin Fantaseas, Anguilla on Boxing Day. The dolphin calf weighing approximately 35 pounds and measuring almost three feet long, was born at two in the afternoon. After a 12 month gestation period and a short hour in labor, the calf was born to mother Ayla.

Ayla�s motherly instinct was immediate as she stimulated alertness by jostling the calf and swimming very fast, pulling the newborn calf beside her. The calf took strong breaths each time it surfaced and Ayla continued diving with the calf until its breaths were strong and consistent. Within four hours Ayla was nursing her newborn and this will continue until the calf is two years old.
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Pictures from Anguilla

Denise Graves sent me these photos. They great. Thanks Denise.

The first two are from Scilly Cay at the AOL-Anguilla party. Playing the music are Scotty and Booker. The third is a shot of school children in Anguilla.

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