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Fiji Times Online (7 January 2015) Family looks forward to new academic year by Siteri Sauvakacolo Yesterday, they joined hundreds of other Rotumans on board the MV Lomaiviti Princess II to travel back to the island after spending Christmas and New Year in the Capital City. Rupeti Mani who was part of the group said they made sure all their back-to-school shopping preparations were done a few days prior to their departure. He was accompanied by his wife Marseu and three grandchildren aged 15, 13 and 12 who all attend school on the island. "We had bought all their school accessories before going back today (yesterday)," Mr Mani said. "Everything is ready and they just can't wait to start another new school year in their new grades. "We are here in Suva for the festive season and preparing our children as well for another school year." Mr Mani said he ensured his grandchildren got the best education and this was why he prepared them well a few weeks before school started. Police chief operations officer ACP Rusiate Tudravu has reminded parents and guardians to ensure the safety of their children. He said some unexpected incidents such as accidents happened during times like this and negligence could be one of the main factors. He also advised those travelling back to the islands to be cautious so they could reach their destinations safely.
© Fiji Times Ltd. From Fiji Sun Online (4 January 2015) Goodbye Paul by Varanisese Nasilasila Many gathered to farewell the late Paul Vaurasi Mathewsell during his funeral at the Mr Mathewsell was famously known for his musical talents and sporting skills, especially in rugby. Members of the Western Musician Entertainers Association paid their last tribute to their former member during the funeral service. Association treasurer Rusiate Ralulu said they were going to miss having Mr Mathewsell around. "Paul was someone that anyone could rely on, even in the band. He would always go the extra mile for us, Mr Ralulu said. "If we are broke and we need money, he would give even if it was the last cent left in his wallet. That was Paul." Mr Ralulu said they first discovered Mr Mathewsell's musical talents at school in Tailevu. "When I first met Paul at Raw Kadavulevu School, he was very funny and outgoing. He would carry his guitar with him everywhere. "We decided to form a band at school that would usually perform at socials with otherschools like Adi Cakobau School. I admit he was a very good musician," he said. Also known for his talents in rugby, Mr Mathewsell had a very athletic personality. "He was known for this one incident when he played for the Nadi Gaunavou rugby team where he was carrying the ball and got tackled. "When he landed on the ground, they found out that it was punctured," Association Mr Lasaisuva described the late Mr Mathewsell as a very punctual man. "His discipline on the field was also seen during his time when he was in the band. He was never late. "We will surely miss Paul and our greatest condolence goes to his family," he said. He is survived by his wife Maca Fong Mathewsell, two children, daughter, Rita, 26, and son, Samson Mathewsell, 18 and two grandchildren [correction: he is survived by four children]. The bass player was buried at the Enamanu Cemetery at Kennedy in Nadi. |
