THE grandmother of an aspiring local musician was left wondering if the Director of Tourism could do a better job in encouraging aspiring performing artists.Mrs. June Caisey-Dill, matriarch of the Caisey family, was very pleased when her grandson Desta (Zion) Wilson received glowing praise from Jacqueline Iocco, a visitor, who in a letter to the Department of Tourism, said: "Mr. Desta Wilson has such a presence with his amazing, spectacular voice and his talent for playing guitar.

"His performance was unforgettable, extraordinary and a memory we will treasure always. It was clear Mr. Wilson wasn't just there to do a performance, but to also connect with his audience. I wish Mr. Wilson the best and a bright promising future. I would also highly recommend Mr. Wilson for any type of entertainment occasion."

Mrs. Caisey-Dil felt more encouragement is needed to spark the interest in the island's untapped natural resource. Holding up the letter she quipped: "You mean to tell me this is the best they can do? Here it is, he gets more praise from a visitor than from someone locally who is in a position to help take our talented youngsters to the next level!"

Desta, who is the fourth generation of the Caisey clan to showcase his talent, has performed on Race Relations Day, at the (Annual) Caisey Family Productions and had a one-off performance with the Jahstice reggae band during the Neo Soul Concert.

Mrs. Caisey-Dill was elated over the fact that a tourist who, while attending a friend's birthday party at a local eatery, would go through the trouble of heaping praise on this son of the soil. But she also felt let down that more isn't done to encourage aspiring young artists to hone their skills. Undaunted by this bitter-sweet form of recognition, Desta has continued to amass a following as his grandmother helps to mould him into a polished performer with or without the backing of the powers that be.

"This letter from Ms Iocco is proof that we have talented performers here, but they are not being given the push they deserve. But when those in position all but stifle these youngsters they become discouraged," Mrs. Caisey-Dill said.