The Calabash Literary Festival for 2009 Is Cancelled

Treasure Beach Forum: TB Runnin's: The Calabash Literary Festival for 2009 Is Cancelled
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Calabash Festival Organizers on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 11:42 am: Edit Post

[update: The Festival will be held as scheduled! See this thread -TBNet]

Calabash 2009 cancelled

[March 24, 2009 — Kingston, Jamaica] Since its inception in 2001, The Calabash International Literary Festival has achieved many “firsts.” We were the first annual international literary festival in the Caribbean. Over the years, we’ve welcomed thousands of people to their first literary experience.

This year, the festival is announcing another first. Calabash will be cancelled for the very first time. We hope it will also be the last. There will be no Calabash this year.

We are not proud of this first. In the deepest, most sacred, most tender places in our heart, Justine, Kwame and I share the disappointment that all leaders ought to feel when they are forced to face the fact that they are unable to deliver to the people all that they’ve promised.

Calabash is a people’s festival, a not-for-profit festival that the public has come to count on to deliver some of the greatest writers, musicians, playwrights and filmmakers in the world—at no charge—year after year.

The country as a whole -- and the tourism sector in particular -- has always been able to depend on the festival to generate positive news stories and features in the international media. The examples are many. Here are a few— the New York Times and American Express Departures Magazine in America. The Globe & Mail and the Toronto Star in Canada. The Independent and New Statesman in the UK.

In short, we are the kind of festival that in many great countries and cities in the world are organized by governments as a public service.

Until this year, we have operated with the understanding that the government of Jamaica and its related agencies and boards have shared this belief. Unfortunately we were not able to obtain the support needed from those agencies this year. That fact coupled with global economic realities which resulted in reduced corporate and private donations has made it impossible to go on.

Ultimately however, the responsibility for this cancellation rests with us.


Our commitment to our mission remains the same—transforming the literary arts in the Caribbean by being the region's best-managed producer of workshops, seminars and performances and we look forward to welcoming you all back next year.

Colin Channer


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Justine Henzell on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 11:45 am: Edit Post

Dear Treasure Beach community,

It is with deep regret and a heavy heart that we have had to announce the cancellation of Calabash 2009. A large part of our sadness stems from the fact that we will be unable to welcome the Calabash audience to the wonderful community of Treasure Beach this year. Every year our visitors remark on the fact that for at least the Calabash weekend they can remember what it was like to live in a Jamaica that was full of love and friendship, where you feel a sense of unity, where you can sleep with your windows open and walk down the beach at 2am without a worry. The community of Treasure Beach provided a sanctuary from the fear that permeates so much of our island. It is an immeasurable gift that you provided to your guests.

You welcomed the festival with open arms and then opened up every available room to house the visitors. You cooked food, parked cars, cleaned beaches, made endless trips to the airports and listened to poets when you had a spare moment. You showed what being a host should be.

We salute you. We thank you. And we promise to be back.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Eric on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 11:51 am: Edit Post

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Say it ain't so.

Justine, Colin, and Kwami (and everyone else behind the scenes) I want to say THANK YOU for all the work you've put into past festivals, the work you must have done trying to salvage something for this year, and all the work you'll be doing for the coming years.

I'll miss the festival for the reasons you've listed above and am very much looking forward to the ones in the years coming.

Respect due,
Eric


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rebecca on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 01:53 pm: Edit Post

Like Eric and so many others, I am very disappointed by this news.

Justine is encouraging us to make our sentiments known to the Minister of Tourism as well as The Gleaner. The fax number for the office of the Minister is 876/920-6512 and the email for our contact at the Gleaner regarding the festival is janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com.

The following is the letter I just faxed to the Minister.

Minister Edmund Bartlett
Ministry of Tourism
64 Knutsford Boulevard
Kingston
Jamaica
March 25, 2009

Dear Minister Bartlett:

It is with a very heavy heart I write this letter. I have operated Treasure Tours out of Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth since 1995 and this is the first occasion of my addressing a letter to the Minister of Tourism.

I’ve just been notified of the cancellation of the 2009 Calabash Literary Festival. I truly wish I was one of the guest speakers of the festival because then I may have the words and talent needed to express my profound disappointment in the Ministry of Tourism allowing this festival to be cancelled.

One reason for my disappointment is economic. Yes, this festival brings in a good shot of revenue at a time when tourism is normally slow and this will certainly be felt throughout our small community. But that is not the economic reason I am referring to. What I am referring to is the sponsorship of the jazz festival of $500,000 US from The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF). I do not know for sure of further figures due to government sponsorship for this one particular festival, but would be quite curious to know. This is sponsorship for a festival bringing in world renown artists to come and perform at a festival which is, frankly, financially out of reach for the majority of us living in this country. So with that, then why not give the $40,000 US sponsorship requested by the Calabash Literary Festival which promotes Jamaican and Caribbean authors and is accessible to all as it is free? I would guess the long-term rewards for Jamaica and the Caribbean for promoting writers and poets publishing works recording and depicting life in the Caribbean and the lives of its Diaspora ( including the printed word of patois) would far outlast an expensive night of dancing with some superstars.

With all due respect, I have to assume you’ve never attended this festival, because if you had you would see, first hand, how this small festival personifies all that is good about our country, its history, its culture, it’s heritage, its politics, and its amazing people. In one weekend , under one tent I have seen folks from every social and economic background comingle, listen to and appreciate each other – all for free. I’ve been brought to tears more than once, both in laughter and sorrow. I’ve felt uncomfortable with some of the topics discussed and felt the tension in the air regarding topics as controversial as politics, gay rights, racism, etc. But through it all, everyone listened, and everyone was respectful, minds were broadened and appreciation for alternative viewpoints was always shown. An exercise in tolerance, isn’t that what we need more of?

In a country where the illiteracy rate is so high, shouldn’t we promote a festival where the line at the bookstore is at least 10 people deep throughout the entire weekend? In the day and age of such controversial song lyrics containing “daggerin” and the like, shouldn’t we be promoting a festival which looks at some of our great song lyricists and highlights their works at the end of each festival which has us all dancing in the aisles and singing all those old familiar songs? In a time when the name Jamaica is synonymous with high crime, shouldn’t we be recognizing a place which promotes community tourism where you are encouraged to ”walk out” and meet the people, where we pride ourselves on the fact of no private beaches?

I mourn the loss of this festival this year. I feel like I have been told my best friend won’t be coming to visit me. But on a national level I can’t help but feel a greater loss. Maybe this festival does not bring in the big money, but it sure brings in pride and isn’t that incalculable?

Thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion.

Sincerely,


Rebecca Wiersma
Treasure Tours on Jamaica’s South Coast Ltd.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Past Attendee on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 12:25 pm: Edit Post

We regret the loss too. We are sad this wonderful event had to be canceled.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By So Sorry on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 11:57 am: Edit Post

This is horrible. Is there no way Calabash could have been downsized? Would people not have been willing to pay an admission fee?

This is a blow to the entire community. People were counting on revenues from the Festival.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Jamaica51 on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 01:52 pm: Edit Post

Timing is everything - I just booked my flights yesterday for Calabash!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Bad Decisions on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 02:22 pm: Edit Post

This is a major disappointment. It is hard to believe the government is using $500,000 for something more inconsequential than Calabash. On the other hand, it seems wrong the festival organizers had not secured a firm commitment from the government two months before the event. There will be a lot of negative PR from this, not to mention loss of income for hotels, guesthouses, villas, and restaurants. A lot of people had already made travel plans, and they are now holding non-refundable air tickets.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By onelove on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 06:24 pm: Edit Post

I, too, am deeply saddened by the cancellation of Calabash. This would have been my seventh year at the festival, and the third time I was bringing "newbies." I just wanted to respond to "bad decisions," though, that the last six months have brought very deep and sudden financial challenges to many. I, for one, am not concerned about negative PR from this; I am concerned about the negative global economic situation, and its ripple effects.

The loss of the festival is hard for those of us who visit; it is even harder for those who've come to rely on it during the slow part of the tourist season.

Please know that the weekend is still Labo(u)r Day weekend in Jamaica; if you're holding a ticket and are willing, there will be plenty of activities and events going on all over Jamaica!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By The Show MUST Go On on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 04:47 pm: Edit Post

How can an event like this be cancelled with merely 60 days notice? What happens to Marblue and Sunset? What happens to Jakes as they probably accepted no reservations in order to keep their place empty for the authors who were to be reading?

I would think the organizers would be compelled to keep their word that the Show Must Go On. If they did not receive the anticipated funding, which I agree is most disappointing, then it seems as if they should pay out of their pockets and charge a small admission fee or ask for donations at the entryway.

If this is TRULY cancelled, who will trust the organizers in the future?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Karen Kennedy on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 06:02 am: Edit Post

Here is the story in this morning's Gleaner.

Calabash gone to bed - Literary festival cancelled due to lack of funding

Published: Thursday | March 26, 2009

Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer

(photograph) Colin Channer, founder and artistic director of Calabash International Literary Festival, takes a nap at the 2007 festival. Calabash organisers announced yesterday that this year's festival has been cancelled primarily because of lack of funding. - File

WESTERN BUREAU:

The entire south coast community of Treasure Beach is reeling from shock and disappointment because of the cancellation of the 2009 Calabash International Literary Festival.

Organisers of the annual event said they were forced to make the decision because of lack of funding.

"We requested US$40,000 from the JTB (Jamaica Tourist Board) and they approved US$25,000 on Tuesday," Justine Henzell, one of the organisers, told The Gleaner. She added that the not-for-profit event was also having problems getting corporate and private donations. "Companies such as CHASE Fund also gave us less than we asked for," Henzell said.

Henzell and her brother Jason, operator of Jake's Treasure Beach where the event is held, said they understand that the JTB has a set budget for its events marketing, but as was proven with the Jamaica Jazz and Blues festival, there are exceptions where additional funding can be requested through the Tourism Enhancement Fund, "And this request was made and unfortunately the amount needed was not granted. We fear that the international exposure that Calabash generates is far greater than any other event in Jamaica," said Jason.

The news has left the communities between Manchester and St Elizabeth, which have been the beneficiaries of the festival, in mourning, with business people describing the announcement as tragic.

"It's a terrible, terrible mistake that the Ministry of Tourism has made by not coming up with the sponsorship needed for this world-class event," lamented Corey South of the Sunset Hotel in Treasure Beach.

Staggering line-up

This year's event had a staggering line-up of authors, including South African Nobel Laureate Nadine Gordimer, 2008 Pultizer Prize winner Junot Diaz, US Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky, Jamaica Kincaid, George Lamming and former prime minister Edward Seaga reading from his memoirs for the first time.

The economic impact of the festival is usually felt throughout Treasure Beach, with every hotel, guest house, villa and home fully booked, most a year in advance and at premium rates.

"You can't even find a closet to stay in down here during Calabash. It's a huge marketing opportunity for Treasure Beach," added South.

Deeply hurt by the news, Courtney Hamilton, owner of Idler's Rest in Black River, described it as a very sad day in the country. "Any cancellation would result in a major dislocation not only for us, but for many other small hotels on the south coast."

In addition, vendors, transportation operators, fishermen and restaurants are some of the greatest beneficiaries of the event, which is in its ninth year.

In shock

Still in shock when The Gleaner contacted her, Rebecca Wiersma of Treasure Tours, was at a loss for words, but she was quick to point out that the event is the pride and joy of the community. "It gives us an opportunity to shine. Professionally and economically, the cancellation comes as a major blow, but it is even more disappointing that this could happen to a festival that highlights the literary prowess of the people in the region," Wiersma said.

The commitment by the community stretched as far as Jason Henzell giving up rooms at his exclusive and rustic Jake's Resort for free to authors for four nights, losing approximately US$50,000 in revenue for the period.

"And none of us gets paid or earns from this," he stated.

Efforts to get a comment from deputy director of tourism Zachary Harding, who has responsibility for tourism events, proved futile and The Gleaner was referred to chairman and director, John Lynch, who was overseas.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Kory South on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 10:39 pm: Edit Post

I personally have to back the organizers, I was in a meeting where the REGULAR YEARLY sposorship was all but gaurenteed by JTB and TEF and one of the organizers asked what if we wait on you and you dont come through, as this year you have only committed to alot less than last year so far, I only hope that the people planning to attend dont say we waited to long to notify them so they can get refunds on their flights and what not, the answer was dont worry the funding will be there, although be it these people may not have been in position to make that decision,the right people were well aware. I too feel that the organizers should have asked and seeked for funding elsewhere,before they cancelled, even if it be local hoteliers and guest houses, but times are tough everywhere and the outcome of that may not have been worth the time spend. Again I back the organizers of Calabash and in the past 7 years I have seen nothing but professionalism in the coordination of this event . It is a world class event , and I as well as alot of people have only one question if the funding comes tommorrow do we turn it back ON for this year??? Or work towards next year. Thanks again to the wonderful people who have brought this amazing International Calabash Literary Festival to us. keep up the good work and we support you.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Myra on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 05:48 am: Edit Post

We have attended Calabash in the past and were looking forward to doing so again this year. You cannot imagine our disappointment at learning this news. Calabash was an amazing experience. We have booked our plane tickets, and we booked our accommodations. We paid a bit more than regular prices for our accommodations because hotels are able to charge that for this very special weekend. Now I do not know what we will do. We probably will still come to Treasure Beach, but it feels wrong to be paying a premium for a place to stay when Calabash is not happening.

The thing that strikes me is Calabash never seemed to be all that organized prior to the Festival. The website of the authors always went up late and so forth. I would hope the organizers get their act together VERY far in advance for next year.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By booklover2 on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:05 am: Edit Post

In regards to the Gleaner statment "We requested US$40,000 from the JTB (Jamaica Tourist Board) and they approved US$25,000 on Tuesday," Justine Henzell.
Couldn't the show go on for US$25,000? Some how some way? Even if it is downgraded or downsized.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By booklover on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 07:47 am: Edit Post

Kory from Sunset has taken the lead and provided a Calabash seafood festival on the saturday and hopefully will have some authors and artists showing their works. Anyone else preparied to do something? Perhaps a concert and stalls could still be held at Jack sprat with an admission fee just like past concerts held there?
I kinda think that with the late notice there has to be something else offered in it's place due to the number of people who have purchased airfares and deposited accomodation sites...and who will be right now weighing up options to postpone or get refunds!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By PR queen on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:18 am: Edit Post

In regards to PR for the Calabash festival I think that the organizers have not acted wisely. I really think for the lesser money ie(US25,000) the festival could have gone on at least for even one day and add an admission fee. There are other alternatives to cancellation and cancellation is not good for future faith in an annual festival.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rebecca on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:26 am: Edit Post

Well said Blogger. Wish I knew who wrote this.

http://thebitterbean.wordpress.com/2009/03/26/calabash-a-lament-or-maybe-a-rant- and-a-moan/


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By voices on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:44 am: Edit Post

Cannot our voices be heard by the JTB, strong enough for them to realize how important it is that Calabash be on again this year? For a lack of US$25,000 (they spend that on a silly PR luncheon in NYC).
Come come JTB, pull up your socks and act sensibly for once.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By environment? on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:46 am: Edit Post

If Calabash is not on for sure, then what about having that weekend turn into an environmental one? where guest speakers will come to talk about how to best guide Treasure Beach forward without damage to the environment.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By We can do it on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 11:25 am: Edit Post

It is difficult to believe $25,000 is making the difference between putting the festival on or not. Could attendees not each afford $10 to defray the cost? Wouldn't some people make contributions if asked?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By turey on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 01:48 pm: Edit Post

I had the great pleasure in attending two Calabash Festivals. I'm sorry to hear it is cancelled this year.

I congratulate Ms Henzell and the organisers for their past productions and hope it will happen next year.

Thing is: The formula works!...and is repeatable. In depression or recession the lifting of our spirits by such occasions is priceless.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rosemary on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 02:04 pm: Edit Post

That such an important festival - probably THE most important festival in Jamaica - should be halted because of lack of sponsorship is indeed a very sad disgrace and does not say much for us as a people! As an author who spends most of her time writing, who encourages others to read - "shock yourselves, read a book", who enjoys the chance to beam as other Caribbean authors proudly present their works; as a food critic who has always enjoyed the chance to sample the joys of Jamaican cuisine; as a music lover of everything Caribbean...the Calabash Festival embodied it all. Add to this the beautiful gentle people from the parish of St. Elizabeth who can teach all those who venture here at Calabash a thing or two about living in peace and harmony and we have a total happening in every respect. Man, this is where people from all walks of life enjoy the literary arts together. One would think that injections of sponsorship would be fast and furious! Where is Macmillan Caribbean who has built their business from the pen of Caribbean authors and whose books are on display and sold in good quantities at this festival? We know they do sponsor but how about putting in that little extra to make this festival happen? Where is the Jamaican private sector whose products are imbibed and eaten - Lascelles, J. Wray & Nephew, Appleton Rum, Red Stripe, Kingston Beer - oops! perhaps these suppliers have spent their money on those rewarding ragga ragga one-night dancehall bashment parties (or whatever they are called)!! Where are the local newspapers who should be the first to want to participate in such an event...some of their young "aspiring journalists" forced to use Calabash as part of their journey with words? Where are all those whose bank accounts and lifestyles in the city, in "country" and inna "foreign" are bigger than life itself? And last but not least, where are all the financial institutions in which they, and us more lowly persons, put our hard-earned cash and coins so good profits can allow them the lifestyle of the rich and famous? Lawd, lawd, lawd come for your world! Blaming the government for their lack of financial help when it is required (although it is sad that this event finds no merit with them) is not good enough! No,No,No! This lack of sponsorship just simply boggles the mind and provides much food for thought!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Whose Blame? on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 03:03 pm: Edit Post

With all due respect to the organizers, I am wondering if they secured a written commitment from the JTB. We have learned with the seaplane incident that getting somewhat of an oral commitment is not worth much. If they did not get a written commitment, there is the distinct chance the JTB's budget was cut; budgets have been cut worldwide, not only for tourism.

The JTB also does not seem to understand Treasure Beach is a tourist destination with actual acomodations. They put it in the same category as Lover's Leap and Appleton Estate and call it a "South Coast sight." This is clearly unfortunate.

Does Treasure Beach not have a representative to protect our interests with the JTB?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Seth on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 02:24 pm: Edit Post

I was saddened and shocked by this news when I first heard it, and now saddened and shocked to hear that there was money, just not the full amount needed for a full festival. I understand the disappointment of the organizers, but surely there could be a down-scaled version of the festival using the more modest amount of funds?

Calabash is what first brought me to Jamaica. How sad to see it disappear. I'm sure people would be willing to pay a small admission, or send donations.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Neville G. on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 05:41 pm: Edit Post

Boy!! I am at a loss for words. Is this really true? Couldn't it have been rescued by the JTB? All these are just some of the questions that readily come to mind.
I am from the area and look forward to visiting each year. I am sure a lot of other "Calabashers" will be sorely dissapointed. I am still in a shock with this one.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By RJR-Calabash on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 05:00 pm: Edit Post

In today's Gleaner it says RJR had to let 32 people go. Here are some quotes from the article:

+ More than 30 employees of the Radio Jamaica Group (RJR) were sent home yesterday as the fallout from the global economic crisis continued to hit local firms.

+ Yesterday, the company intensified its efforts to reduce costs with 32 posts being made redundant, including those of prominent on-air personalities.

+ The company said the decision to send persons home was based on a combination of early retirement, voluntary redundancy and mandatory separation.

These decisions must have been quite difficult for RJR as well as all those affected. Remaining employees will have to work even harder.

The difference between Calabash and RJR in my mind is RJR chose to remain in business. They did not give up.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By mikeyMike on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 12:27 pm: Edit Post

After visiting Jamaica for over 20 years, I am not the least bit surprised by this cancellation ! This is "routine" for how things operate in Jamaica! Even for large events, things are always filled with uncertainty up to the less minutes of the event !
Comittments are never really Comittments, even by public officials an goverment organizations.
It is "JAMAICA" !!!!!
ONE LOVE !!
Mike


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Myra on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 04:38 pm: Edit Post

I would like to know if the organizers looked for alternate ways to raise the $25,000. I would like to know if they considered scaling back the size of the festival. I would like to know if they considered ASKING for an admission fee and let those who could afford it pay. I would like to know exactly how flexible they were willing to be. It is starting to sound more like - if we do not get our way we will cancel the festival.

I would like to know how much NOT holding the festival is costing in actual dollars and cents. I am willing to be it is more than the $25,000.

I would like to know how much NOT holding the festival is costing in reputation.

The organizers made a commitment to hold the festival. They did not say - maybe we will and maybe we won't. They did not say - if the JTB doesn't give us such and such then you will be left holding your airline ticket and villa reservation.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By JImCurl on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 07:27 am: Edit Post

Sell a ticket! If the people love the event they will support it. Too much reliance on the government to bail us out - ask a fair price for admission - nothing Sacred about a free entry - it is the art and the community that is holy - if we are worried about certain people being kept out, have a scholarship to help those who cannot pay US$35.00.

If you love this you CANNOT let it die!

Jim Curl


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Ontime on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 09:41 pm: Edit Post

MikeyMike,
It's interesting how easy some people find it to stereotype an entire nation. I can cite you many events in Jamaica that have never been cancelled or been late in starting because the people who run them are serious about what they do and are as professional as their counterparts anywhere else in the world.
Ironically, some of the country's own tourism promoters should share the blame since they appear bent on perpetuating this ever cool/ ever relaxed "No Problem, Mon" image of Jamaica.

Next time you get the opportunity perhaps you could try out our annual National Pantomime, or any of the other theatre productions being staged every week in Kingston.
ONE LOVE!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Disagree on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 09:02 pm: Edit Post

With respect, the RJR - Calabash comparison is not the most appropriate. RJR is a company that has been in operation for six decades and has all sorts of ongoing obligations as well as very good prospects for a return to profitability consequent on the recent actions.

I share the disappointment at the decision to cancel Calabash this year and would have wished that the organisers had tried even harder to keep it going despite the difficulties. Nevertheless, I disagree wholeheartedly with the parallel being drawn here between the work of a group of volunteers and a long-running commercial media business.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By BOOKIE on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 08:39 pm: Edit Post

Lahd ah massy...Lord have mercy. Do the math!

$25,000US to put on a Festival of generous words...thoughtful,
poetic, challenging, global, investigative, adventurous, profound,instructive....

If 2000 individual people gave a measely $12.50 US, your fundraising gap from JTB is covered...1000 people, the amount would be $25US each.

Is someone at the top of the Calabash organizational pyramid saying that folks exclusively reserving villas/hotels/guesthouses
for this event would not be more than ready to cough up the equivalent of "beer money".

Perhaps, I'm ignorant of the length of time in setting up a fund raising site (or sharing an existing site), similar to Karen Kennedy's villa raffle endeavour,
and alerting visitors to the Festival of the budgetary reasons for charging admission through newspaper/ TBNet entreaties...would not the response have been positively met?

Knowing the "Golden Goose" (the Fest) would not strut this year for whatever reason, would not other sponsors be sought, including all the interested parties that stood to lose so much.

JUSTINE: Did you not trust us, your most loyal cohorts (by virtue of our enthusiasm for the Fest) to spread your arms wide, as soon as you knew di money ting wasn't adding up to ask for help beyond the usual suspects. Are we so wutless, and a bad example to our school-age children, to declare to this community that a world reaching assembly of literary and musical excellence is not worth fighting for...that this year our
poetic soil that nourishes so many is parched.

If this Festival is truelly shelved, I will be pulling from my bookshelves pages, in absentia of the real thing, by Nadine Gordimer, Junot Diaz, Jamaica Kincaid, George Lamming, trying on their accents, missing their evocative presences.

Next year's Festival, god willing, will be slamming, because those who care, will insinuate themselves more deeply into the organization and give the tireless Colin, Justine & Kwami a big lift.
Read On!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rebecca on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 08:42 am: Edit Post

Amen Ontime! I cannot count how many wonderful, professional and on-time events I've attended over the years. I used to be an events coordinator in America, so I am looking at this from a fellow professional stand-point.

The organization of Calabash Festival has always impressed me. So many writers, so much going on, food, personalities, scheduling, audio, weather, delayed flights, and the list goes on . . . Yet everything always runs smoothly.

As for the National Pantomime, I had my first experience this year and it was fabulous! I also recall a few years ago being entertained by the National Dance Theater. I was blown away with the professionalism and talent I saw all for (at the time) $500 JA! If I had attended something similar in the States the tickets would have been at least $65 US per person.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Didagree with Disagree on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 08:32 am: Edit Post

Calabash is run by volunteers, but their commitment to keeping their promises should not be broken. People trusted them. The money others will lose is real no matter whether the Calabash people are volunteers or paid for their efforts.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By MikeyMike on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 10:02 am: Edit Post

Ontime and Rebecca.
I stand by my previous statement !!
The points you make are the "exceptions" and not the "norm" for events in JA.
The cancellation of this wondeful festival is a prime example.
ONE LOVE !!
Mike


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Eric on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 10:13 am: Edit Post

At the risk of taking this thread away from its main theme, may I ask you a question, MikeyMike? How much experience do you have with Calabash Festival? Have you attended?

To close may I also ask, with no judgement or recrimination intended, what you consider the meaning of "One Love" to be?

Regards,
Eric


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Janet Todd on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 12:38 pm: Edit Post

Is there no way the money to continue Calabash can be raised? It is very short notice, but I am certainly prepared to give a donation. I have never been lucky enough to go to the Festival myself, but I follow all the stories about it with huge interest, both as a book lover and a life long lover of Treasure Beach.

The idea of the Festival was inspired, and has just continued to grow year by year, and I feel if it cancelled this year it may lose its momentum.

Is there any way it can still go on, even in a mini version?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Tone on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 04:19 pm: Edit Post

Thank you, Eric, for you "One Love" question. That sign-off on MM's posts have always felt a little odd to me.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By DISAGREE with Disagree on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 01:21 pm: Edit Post

I made a typo with my name above. I meant I did NOT agree with Disagree's comments.

I DO agree with many of the possible fund-raising suggestions various people have suggested here.

Bookie mention Karen Kennedy's raffle. A raffle might not have worked for this, but I would like to remind Disagree that Karen Kennedy is a volunteer, the same as the organizers of Calabash. I know a mother of one of the scholarship students, and she told me she KNOWS she can count of the payments for her daughter. Being a volunteer does not matter if someone assumes the responsibility for something. People expect others will live up to their word.

MikeyMike, I keep feeling like you have had bad experiences in Jamaica. I want you to know I have not. I am often surprised about how smoothly things run in Jamaica.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By positive on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 04:50 pm: Edit Post

Lets wait a day or two to see if there is any possibility of the organizers raising the balance of funds to get Calabash going again ...
Put your positive thoughts for it to happen.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By susumba on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 12:53 pm: Edit Post

Im still going to calabash!!
I may be the only one ankle deep in salt water, reading poetry and eating likkle ochi food :-) but I'll be there!

I figure it means alot to Calabash Bay... would love some company!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Ontime on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 01:24 pm: Edit Post

I see you are now shifting the goalposts, MikeyMike, but it's still One Love, anyway!


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Calabash junky on Friday, March 27, 2009 - 04:17 pm: Edit Post

Hi! I'm a Calabasher myself, and was making all kinds of plans for this year. I have NOT cancelled my room. I'm watching all the dialogue and trusting that WE will come up with (an) "event"(s) for that holiday weekend.

Mainly want to share links to discussion and efforts posted on Facebook. (I've posted this link there too). There's a growing group: "We still a guh 'calabash'" and attached to the Caribbean Review of Books letter to the government there are bank account numbers for donations.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=60233479126&ref=mf

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=60233479126&ref=mf#/note.php?note_id=72257 598952&id=529975714&ref=mf

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=72229162322&h=P9m60&u=TCBkW&ref=mf


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By MikeyMike on Saturday, March 28, 2009 - 12:09 pm: Edit Post

NO I have NEVER attended the Calabash Literary Festival, due to the time of year it is held and my schedule. But that does not mean that I do not know about it ! What does my not attending have to do with my reply ?
The fact that I have been returning to Jamaica for over 20 years must mean that I REALLY LOVE Jamaica and its culture. The only BAD experience I have had was being on a coaster bus that got hijacked by criminals in Kingston, and that did not stop my vacation at the time, and it did not stop me from returning to Jamaica again and again.
However, I am not the type of person to "gloss over" the ugly side, are the bad things about Jamaica. It seems to me (especially on this forum) that people have the tendency to paint a more "rosey" picture of Jamaica and to ignore its real problems, and when someone does state the realities, and problems with Jamaica (even in TB) they are viewed as being negative, are people take offense to it being mentioned.
My sign off of "ONE LOVE" has the same meaning that the song intended. What is so odd about that ?
A bit of a post script :
Now that the festival is supposely back on, again, points out how things are done/run (the reality) in Jamaica !! Always (ok most times) with uncertainty and no real comittment !!
ONE LOVE !!
Mike


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By turey on Saturday, March 28, 2009 - 12:58 pm: Edit Post

I understand the uncertainty part MikeyM. I do not agree that there is no real commitment most of the time.

Not following a 'linear' schedule may be viewed as lacking commitment by those able to do so.

There are historical reasons for the fracturings and disconnectiveness in the Jamaican public and private sectors. This creates much inneficiency and frustration. Many of us have learnt to be flexible, patient and persistant in order to fulfill our promises and plans. You will find that a persons word is very important in Jamaica! With most of us.

Like everywhere there are some of us that cannot/do not accept responsibility for their actions and/or do not care about the consequences of their irresponsibility.

So Mike, I would agree with sometimes but not most times. Then, this is my experience. I cannot deny yours.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Agree on Sunday, March 29, 2009 - 08:59 am: Edit Post

I agree with Turey. People for the most part keep their word in Jamaica. Their reputation is too precious to destroy.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By TBNet on Monday, March 30, 2009 - 10:23 am: Edit Post


The Festival will be held as scheduled! See this thread -TBNet


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Van on Monday, March 30, 2009 - 10:23 am: Edit Post

My treat while working in Northeastern NY is a trip to TB every winter. I plan my retirement trip in 2013 for the Calabash Festival. Great Save! Keep up the good work.