25 Million Dollar Upgrade For The Lodge School

The Lodge School is in for an upgrade that is likely to cost $25 million.

The project, set to start in the new financial year, was announced on Friday by Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Ronald Jones.

The Lodge School, which has fallen into substantial disrepair, is one of the schools on which work will commence in the new financial year...," Jones said in the House of Assembly.

"That facility could possibly end up costing in the region of $25 million. It is absolutely mind-boggling when one looks at the kind of expenditure (required)."

According to Jones, the plan includes protecting buildings of historical importance at the St John school.

Over the years Government has spent millions of dollars building and upgrading primary and secondary schools under an Education Sector Enhancement Programme, partly funded by the Inter-American Development Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank.

Jones made the comments when the House debated the education component of a resolution to put the sum of $55 million from the Consolidated Fund at the disposal of Government to supplement the 2008-09 Estimates of Expenditure.

For the full details of this story, please read tomorrow's SATURDAY SUN.

Source: www.nationnews.com

Broomes Cleans Up

There is a new schoolboy bodybuilding champ in town, and his name is Ramon Broomes.

The Lodge School student won the title Friday evening at Lester Vaughan School where the Sunshine Cereal/Gatorade Mr Schoolboy Bodybuilding and Miss Body Fitness Championships were held.

Broomes had the complete package of muscularity, hardness and balance, which was presented before the judges in a smooth, classical posing routine. At the end of the evening he also walked away with Best Poser and Most Muscular titles.

His accomplishments will be a tremendous boost for him as he prepares for the World Juniors Championship in the Czech Republic next weekend.

Kamal Sealy has been around for about three years in this competition, and has the ability to win it. When he first came on stage, he looked like a winner. He was big, muscular and defined.

However, as the competition progressed, and during the comparisons with Broomes, he started to fade, while Broomes kept his definition.

For example, the muscle separation between Broomes' quads and hamstrings were evident in the side pose, but not in Sealy's. He was in good shape, but needed to come in a bit harder to beat Broomes.

Johnathan Nana was in his best condition ever in Mr Schoolboy. The UWI student added a few quality pounds over the year and was more muscular and defined this time around.

He didn't have the size to win the title, but Nana is one to watch as he progresses. The size will come, and as long as he maintains the quality of muscle he has, he will do even better.

Devon Franklyn of Princess Margaret came out of nowhere and had everyone asking: "Who is that guy?" From the moment he walked on stage and started to pose it was evident he was going to make an impact.

He carried a small waist which moved out into a V-shape lats spread. He was symmetrical and well developed and if he puts in the work, he should do better than fourth place.

Also coming out of Princess Margaret were Quantano Parris and Keron Cox, who took fifth and sixth places respectively. Parris carried good muscularity, but his symmetry was weak, while Cox was ripped to the bone, but lacked mass.

In the Body Fitness Senior, Virgene Maynard, who represented Barbados Community College, was head and shoulders above the others. She was poised, smooth and confident, with overall good condition.

Alicia Archer (second) of Foundation and Jeanna Johnson (third) of Alexandra were also in good condition and were separated by a few points. Fourth placed Jenila Atherley of The Lodge was a hit with the audience and should do better as long as she becomes more defined.

Source: www.nationnews.com

Lodge Old Scholars Elect New Executive Board

The Lodge School Old Scholars Association held its Annual General Meeting and Election of Officers yesterday at The Main Guard, Garrison, St. Michael. The new Executive Board (2008 - 2009) is as follows:

President - Henry Innis
Vice Presdient- Michael Jules
Secretary - Beverly Gill
Treasurer - Allan Herbert
Assistant Secretary Treasurer - Beverley Clarke
Public Relations Officer- Ian Browne
Member Relationship Officer - Winston Dottin

The Lodge School Old Scholars Association (LSOSA) extends its sincere thanks to all those who attended the meeting and encourages your continued support for the work of the Association.

September Birthday Bash - Thursday, Sept 5, 2008

We have over ten - yes 10 top DJs who will be playing against the Rev. Steele (Old Lodge School Scholar)

Nikos Boxill and crews, DMZ, Bubbles, Silk, we will also have Gorg, Terry Mexican the pan man, D2, Biggie Irie, and a whole lot of others coming out to celebrate a SEPTEMBER to remember.

So Spread the word to all LODGE crews and others to come out and see what a great celebration we will be having the night.

Just know that the colors for the night are BLUE and all September born people are welcome along with friends family and whoever else.

We will also be having a Dance competition so tell de people that we want to see who can dance the best.

Looking forward to seeing you all at club NXS on THURSDAY 25th September 9:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m.

Blessings always,

Rev. Steele and Panther

For more information please call Michael Steele at 240-3576

Lodge Takes The Spoils

Nature Valley Lodge School are the 2008 champions of the Barbados Cricket Association Sagicor General Shield 40-over-a-side competition. Playing in front of a relatively small but appreciative crowd at the 3Ws oval, Lodge defended what looked to be a mediocre score against 3-time finalists Ince Transport MTW.

Lodge, batting first, put 164 on the score cards, with valuable contributions from the bat of Renaldo Arthur who scored the highest in the contest with 55, Stefan Gooding who added 34 and Renaldo Holder who posted 17. The pick of the MTW bowlers were Raymond Kellman with 3-26, Junior Holder 2-28 and Henry Austin 2-30.

Coming in to bat, MTW would have been confident chasing the modest total set for them by the school boys, however this confidence was short-lived. After fifteen overs MTW had slumped to 58 for four and things kept going downhill from there. The next ten overs saw five wickets falling with the addition of just 42 runs, which meant heartbreak for MTW and delight for the school boys of St. John.

After 25 overs, the fate of MTW could have been written in stone, having meandered to 100 for 9. At approximately 4:20, the number eleven of MTW lifted a pitched-up ball to the fielder at deep long off who easily came around to his left, safely taking the ball and dashing all hopes of victory for Ince Transport MTW.

MTW were all out for 114 off of 29.4 overs. MTW Batsmen who got into double figures were Chad Puckerin and Raymond Kellman both with 20, Curtis Greene with 14 and Mark Bailey who scored 11. The pick of the Lodge School bowlers were Stephan Gooding with 2-17, Mario Miller 4-34 and Diego Stuart 2-19.

Man-of-the-Match honours were spilt between two players this time around with Stephan Gooding and Renaldo Arthur, both of Nature Valley Lodge School, sharing the spoils.

Nature Valley Lodge School received $8 000, while runners-up Ince Transport MTW received $5 500.

September Birthday Bash To Be Held At Club NXS

One of our Lodge School old scholars, the Rev Michael Steele invites you on Thursday Night 25th September - (calling all September born) to the big Birthday bash for yours truly Rev. Steele, Nikos Boxill, Panther, and a whole lot of others.

If you want to be a part of the celebration show up at NXS .... with $5.00 and come in and have a ball...... Bring your friends family enemies and come out and have a great time...

Guess what... Nuff surprises for the night.....

Very Special DJ challenge...Who wants to challenge the REV.... Yes ...The rev will be playing with a host of other specially invited Guest DJs.

The dress code color is BLUE... [ Anything goes once it is BLUE]

Will be streamed live on Steele Travel events all night long... Come out and have fun and invite your friends all over the world to log on and watch you party live at the September born Bash live from Club NXS in Barbados.

SPREAD THE WORD - THURSDAY 25th September 9:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m.

Lodge School Old Scholars Cruise 2K8

The Lodge School Old Scholars Association certainly did not disappoint when they indicated that The Coffin would return this year. Despite the inclement weather earlier in the evening many old scholars boarded the M.V. Harbour Master vessel in order to usher the the "Return of the Coffin".

I must confess that I too almost changed my mind after witnessing the electrifying lightning display overhead before leaving home. Nonetheless, I braved the weather and joined the others already gathered at the pier.

Shortly after departing the Shallow Draught Complex the festive spirit seem to grip everyone on board, it was as though we all wanted to let loose and release the tensions of a hectic work week.

Later in the evening it was time for prizes and also the "Coffin Ceremony" with Mr. Mapp of the ole school reciting the Latin maxims from olden days at the Lodge. It was definitely a memorable voyage, I am eagerly looking forward to next year to see what the LSOSA Executive Committee has planned for the 2009 cruise.

The paparazzi on board took several photos... check out the event photos and video on Facebook.

Lodge Friday Night Lime & Barbecue

Folks, the grill was hott, hott, hott at the monthly Lodge Lime on Friday, August 29, 2008 at the Main Guard, Garrison Savannah. Barbecue pigtails and chicken was in abundance and many mouths made good use of them. If anyone needs confirmation ask Terrance Howard, Michael Johnson, Rev. Michael Steele, Henry Inniss, Junior Payne et al.

Music was sweet, sweet, Nikos Boxill and DJ Biggs kept things lively all night it was good to see the old faces and some new ones too.There is no doubt, the old clock tower is where you ought to be the last Friday of each month. We thank Commander Dowridge for keeping the facility available to us each month. Last but not least we invite everyone to support the Friday Limes.

The Lodge Lime - Barbecue Night

Peoples, de grill gine be hott, hott, hott dis Friday, August 29, 2008 at the Lodge Lime up by de Main Guard, Garrison Savannah. We gine kick off at 6:30 p.m.

Wunna must get dey early cause we ent planning on leaving no barbecue pigtails or chicken for nuh body dat cum late... music sweet sweet, so tell wunna friends.

Lodge Old Scholars Cruise - Return Of The Coffin

"Ahoy, Matey," the Captain has signal his intention to set sail on Saturday, September 6, 2K8.

What a time we will have as we set off to plunder the high seas, gather the booty, grog and other spirits. And by God don't forget to store the coffins or someone will walk the plank.

The bounty is $47.00 cold hard doubloons no excuses, bring your sea legs or we'll make you swab the deck. Remember we cast off at 10:00 p.m. sharp. Visit the event page here to RSVP: Facebook

Lodge School Reunion 2008 - Dover Beach Lime

Immediately following the After Party at Solstice 21 Night Club the Lodge School family proceeded up St. Lawrence Gap for Dover Beach to commence the Reunion Lime. It was evident that some persons were barely able to keep their eyes open, but the gathering was steadfast in their attempt to create Lodge School history - the first 24 hour reunion (10:00 a.m. Saturday until 10:00 a.m. Sunday).

I am happy to report that this goal was successfully achieved despite the heavy early morning showers. We take this opportunity to thank Ryan (former Lodge boy) and the good folks at Jill's Hut for coming on board and supporting this reunion event. Jill's Hut is located on Dover Beach, Christ Church, when visiting the area please drop by and show some love. We must whenever possible support our brethren and keep the old school network alive.

I am eagerly awaiting our next event, the Lodge School Old Scholars Cruise, which, by the way is now being held on September 6, 2008 on board the MV Harbour Master.

Please also visit the Facebook site for more event photos.

Reunion 2008 After Party - Solstice 21 Night Club

After the festivities at the Lodge School grounds earlier in the day, the next event on the reunion agenda was the After Party at Solstice 21 Night Club (next to Club NXS) last night in St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church. The venue was quite appropriate and definitely lent the right atmosphere for this special affair. Anthony Nadur should be complimented for the recent renovations carried out on the venue (formerly the After Dark Night Club).

Admittedly, despite the doors to the club being open around the scheduled time most of the patrons arrived well after 11:00 p.m. (keeping Bajan time). Some of the VIPs making an appearance during the evening were Wayne 'Cool' Simmons and Terry 'Mexican' Arthur formerly of Square One music fame. The Lodge posse in attendance after gathering at the bar to reminisce and relive the good old days eventually went to the dance floor for some serious jamming.


The event ended just after 3:30 a.m. and it was time to move on over to Dover Beach for the Reunion Lime.

Please also visit the Facebook site for more event photos.

Lodge School Reunion 2008 - Fun Day & Fete

Yesterday's inclement weather managed to prevent several old scholars from making it to the Lodge School grounds. However, it did not dampen the spirits of those persons who were in attendance at the school.

Some persons used the opportunity to reconnect and share past memories others were just glad to be back at The Lodge School for one more 'ole time fete' in the school hall. These two photos indicate they certainly enjoyed themselves as DJs Nikos Boxill, Notorious and others kept them busy.

Please also visit the Facebook site for more event photos.

Lodge School Reunion - Update No.2 (11:35 p.m)

Good evening, peoples here is the Report No.2 direct from the Solstice 21 Night Club at 11:35 p.m.

Status: At present a modest crowd has gathered at Solstice 21, lodge folks are still arriving as we speak. You are encouraged to come down and support the cause.

Weather: At present it is cool on the outside, still cloudy but the rains have given us a reprieve.

Summary: This event is about to take off... so come on down and show your face in the place.

See our live webcast from Solstice 21 Club: Steele Travel Events TV .

Lodge School Reunion - Lastest Report (10:35 A.M.)

Good morning, peoples here is the latest report/update direct from the Lodge School grounds at 10:35 a.m.

Status: We have been informed that despite the rains last night conditions at the school grounds are favourable and all the outdoor games will continue as planned.

Weather: At present it is overcast but most of the heavy showers predicted yesterday are now to the south of the island. It should be a cool day with a slight chance of rain.

Summary: This event is definitely ON... so get out and show some love and support.

Reunion Barbecue To Follow The After Party

Hello everyone, please note that there will be a Barbecue and Lime at Dover Beach from 3:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. following the After Party at Club Solstice 21.

Those of you not interested in going home following the After Party can proceed to Dover Beach. A basketball contest will also take place during this period. For further information contact Michael Steele at 240-3576.

Michael Steele - Man Of The Moment

Yo, peoples we must really big up de man Michael Steele for the tremendous work he is undertaking in preparing dis de biggest Lodge School Reunion ever. Kudos to brother Steele.

Hip, hip, hooray! Michael is definitely de "Man of the Moment". If you agree feel free to add your comments.

Alumni Social Networking - Support The Reunion

Yes folks, that grand occasion (Lodge School Reunion) is almost here and for those of you still undecided about going here is the number one reason why you should attend - Alumni Social Networking.

Many of us participate in some form of social networking almost every day without even realizing it. Most of the Lodge School Alumni have Facebooks, Hi5 and MySpace sites. We build these elaborate online social networks of friends and acquaintances and use them to gather or share information about ourselves or others.

So why not come out to the reunion events and do the same thing, there is no better place to network than amongst the alumni. The most successful social networks to date have been established on a common shared experience. Alumni communities represent a set of diverse individuals with one thing in common. They each share a very unique life experience and common affinity for their school.

Alumni Associations also have the ability to provide a more trusted and secure environment. So, with all said and done there is no reason why you should not come out on Saturday and participate in the festivities.

Official Lodge School Rings To Be Launched

Official Lodge School rings will be launched on the day of the reunion (Saturday, August 23, 2008). Please see the attached photo above of both the female and male versions of the rings.

Prices will be available on the day of the reunion - all orders made must be accompanied with a deposit.


The school rings were designed by the [dream team] Steele, Johnson and Boxill.

Lodge School Reunion 2008 - Banners Available

Hello Guys and Gals, please note that the Lodge School Reunion 2008 souvenir banner is in the process of being printed. This keepsake should be available on Saturday 23 during reunion events.

You are encouraged to obtain this wonderful memorabilia item to celebrate this historic occasion. The printing and production of the official reunion banner was donated by former lodge boy Suleman and the staff at the Sign Station, Heart's Gap, Christ Church. We extend our heart felt thanks to Suleman and his staff at the Sign Station.

PS. For banners - signs -car wraps - designing - check out SIGN STATION 427-7446.

Lodge School Reunion - Updated Information

Steele Travel Events [Reverend Michael Steele] - Nikos Boxill - Lodge School Old Scholars - The Principle and board members of the Lodge School Invite you to come out and support the event that promises to be the event of the Year.

It is not for just OLD scholars but for the Past, Present, and Future Lodge students, with friends, family and just who want to come and see what The greatest school in Barbados is like when get together. What makes this reunion a special one is that it will have participation from even our old rivals - like CP for example who we will be playing in an all day cricket match on the Lodge School Grounds. Then we will also be playing Volley Ball, Basketball and a whole lot of other sports and events on the day.

The Event kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with just a chill and time to settle in with old friends and associates - and if you like - our rivals. While you sit back and enjoy a lovely one day cricket match with Lodge playing CP.

Cost for the fun day is $10.00 includes event participation. Food and drinks will be on sale all day long and barbecue will be done throughout the day also.

Then throughout the day we will be having music by Nikos Boxill as our DJ and a few others who will be popping in for the day to show some love. - Come and be surprised by the number of talented DJs, that Lodge School has brought out and also some from other places too.

Then we will be having Sports that YOU will be a part of… Don’t come expecting to be only a spectator - The event will only be as fun as YOU make it… Come out prepared to Fight back.

After the sports events we will have an old school style concert/fete in the hall - from 3.30 [after school ] until 7.30pm. Admission is $5.00 at the doors of the concert hall.

We have agreed at this price since most of you will also be attending the major After party event at Solstice 21Club in St. Lawrence Gap from 9pm. Until 3am Sunday Morning. Admission $20.00 at the doors ONLY.

$15.00 before 10:30 p.m. and the first 20 ladies in short pants or skirt will be free. After 10.30 p.m. door admission will be $20.00.

ALL FREE PASSES MUST BE IN BEFORE 11:00 P.M. UNLESS YOU HAVE OUR VIP PASS AS ONE OF THE CELEBRITIES TO THE EVENT.

The kitty kat girls will be in the house live all day and at the after party. To Join the kitty kat crew just check out the posts on the site. Make sure you get your photos with the kitty kat girlz at the fun day and at the after party.

The launch of the Lodge School Graduation Ring will be done on the day also - come and meet our master jeweler Michael Johnson and get fitted for your Lodge School ring which was exclusively designed by us for this launch. School Rings can be ordered on the day.

Special thanks to SIGN STATION , for supplying our banner, The Lodge School Board of Directors for supporting us with the use of the school grounds, The Royal Barbados Police Force for the security and watching out for the event, CBC TV for the publicity, The Barbados Advocate and the Nation news papers, The Old Scholars association - who are always working to see how they can help to keep the lodge school being the best school on the island, Special thanks also to Young Blood for coming out and even though he is not going to be here in Barbados - he played his part for which we are thankful… Blessings micie...

A final word for all….. The event is NOTHING without YOU

So come bring the whole family and have a great day - don't worry about the few extra pounds ladies - we knew it would happen so come out and have fun… Special thanks also for all those who come in from USA for the event - my best friend from New York now - George Abakah and others who you will meet on the day.

Regards,
Michael Steele

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Lodge students interested in attending any or all of these events can contact Michael Steele at 240-3576, Trevor Pilgrim at 423-3834 or Vincent Jones, President of the Old Scholars Association at 428-1132.

Lodge School Old Scholars Cruise - September 6

Ahoy, ahoy! calling all Lodge Posse to attend the Lodge School Old Scholars Cruise to be held Saturday, September 6, 2008 from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. on board the MV Harbour Master.

All landlubbers should note that this year's theme is "Return of the Coffin" and the bounty will be $47.00 cold hard doubloons.

Shiver me timbers! mateys this event should not be missed, any buccaneer who fails to set sail will walk the plank when next we dock. Arr!

New Segment - Where Are They Now?

Hello folks, we are trying to start a new segment here on the blog called "Where Are They Now". We intend to feature past students and teachers of the Lodge School and to give some insight into what they are doing now since leaving our alma mater.

We invite you to send us your photos and a brief note indicating who you are, where you are located (country), what you are currently doing and when you left Lodge etc.

Looking forward to your continued support of this new venture. Thanks...

Personality In Focus - Anderson "Blood" Armstrong

Today we salute an outstanding son of the soil, our very own Anderson "Blood" Armstrong. Anderson Armstrong was born on February 1, 1968 in Barbados. He is one of the most talented males currently on the Soca scene.

Andy started singing as a choirboy while at primary school. He began singing in local competitions back in 1983 while still in high school. At that time he made his professional debut in the Richard Stoute Teen Talent Contest. There he made it all the way to the finals performing his own compositions.That same year he participated under the guidance of his mentor, The Mighty Gabby, in Gabby's first timers Calypso Contest.The following year (1984), with the encouragement of then school teacher and tent manager, Mac Fingall, he joined The Untouchables Calypso Tent.

In 1985, at the age of 17, Andy Armstrong became the youngest person ever to make the National Calypso Finals in Barbados. He placed fifth in the competition which was won by The Mighty Gabby.One of his biggest career moves to date was when in 1986, he along with his friend and former Lodge School mate, George Jones became founding members of one of Barbados' most prominent and one of the Caribbean's leading party bands over the last two decades, Square One.

He is known for his explosive, dynamic and high-energy performances and his versatility as a singer. His debut solo album "Conscience Call" was just another step towards his never-ending quest for maximum musical success. Since that time, he has recorded and produced several solo and compilation albums.

Andy has achieved yet another major accomplishment in his life, where he has built one of the top recording studios on the island from the ground up. Here he has recorded and worked with several of the Crop Over Festival's well known stars such as Red Plastic Bag, Mac Fingall, Alison Hinds, Terry Arthur and the recent additions Mikey, Contone and Pong. Anderson has received several awards and has been recognized as an accomplished artist in the Calypso arena.

Reproduced in part from: www.gotrhythm.com

Lodge School Reunion - Saturday, August 23, 2008

Start: Saturday, August 23 at 10:00 a.m.

End: Sunday, August 24 at 3:00 a.m.

Venue: The LODGE SCHOOL Grounds

Street: Massiah Street, St. John, Barbados

Please see our updated post for new details on this reunion.

Event Coordinator: Michael Steele (246) 240-3576 Email: steeletrinitynetwork@gmail.com

Congratulations To Mr & Miss Lodge School 2008

On Sunday, June 15, 2008 Danielle Norris and Justin Poleon captured the titles of Mr and Miss Lodge School 2008. The event was held at the Combermere School auditorium, Waterford, St. Michael. Under the theme Nature In Full Bloom, the twelve contestants depicted an array of beautiful and unique flowers.

Apart from winning the coveted title, Norris and Poleon also captured the awards for Best Male and Female Casual wear and Best Talent, both students aptly displayed their dancing prowess.

Young and upcoming talent in Barbados was also a main feature of the pageant. Many new entertainers performed, although some better than others, for the large crowd in attendance. Of the night's performances, the Adrenaline Dancers were the most entertaining. This group of young men was a hit with the audience with their agile and comical dance routine.

Other winners for the night included Rico Tull and Krystal Forde, who were the first runners-up as well as Jamaal McCollin and Rhadika Yearwood, who were the second runners-up. The sectional winners were: Shomari Inniss and Gianni King - Most Photogenic, Justin Poleon and Krystal Forde - Best Gown, Shomari Inniss and Shana Fields - Mr and Miss Congeniality, Jamaal McCollin and Krystal Forde - The People's Choice with Shana Fields and Jamaal McCollin - Most Improved.

Welcome To The Lodge School Community Online

We are happy to welcome you to our news and information blog which, is dedicated to publicizing the work of The Lodge School Old Scholars Association and also to highlight past and present students of the Lodge School. There is no escaping the fact that we are in an expanding digital age, and must whenever possible embrace the new technology that is available to us.

It is with this in mind that the new blog was created. This interactive medium presents a forum for the public, Lodge School students past and present to view the latest news and developments regarding the Lodge School. The Weblog "blog" is a wonderful new technology that permits the creating and maintaining of online journals in an easy manner.

The News Blog provides us with an exciting opportunity, not just to discuss the developments we're observing, but also to play a meaningful role in expanding the dialog regarding our alma mater. This web-based facility represents an invaluable addition to our communications capability.

You are encouraged to visit the blog regularly and participate by posting your comments on the blog. Be sure to tell all your friends about this great new service!