I'm delighted to announce that 14 young women and men, students at the University of Virginia, will be in Treasure Beach from March 5 to March 12. In contrast to the "spring breakers" with which most of us are familiar (especially in Negril and MoBay), these 14 students have chosen to give up their vacation time to assist others. They are one of several groups participating in what's knowns as "Alternative Spring Break." This is a student-run organization that conducts service projects during spring break for University of Virginia students.

Each student is paying her or his expenses, including transportation, lodging, and meals in order to participate.

They will be working at Sandy Bank Primary School, especially with students from grade 6 and grade 1. The UVA students will be working with some Sandy Bank students on an individual basis -- and others in small groups, helping wherever they can. In some cases, they will be working with students preparing for their important GSAT exams.

This has been arranged through the cooperation of Miss Norma Moxam, principal, and Miss Zane Ebanks, sixth grade teacher; also coordinating this effort is Joe Shannon, one of the wonderful Peace Corps volunteers in Treasure Beach.

So, if you see some new faces in Treasure Beach starting on March 5, please give these students a hearty welcome -- and a big "thank you."