SALARIESLATEAGAIN
Vol. 21
No. 269
St. John始s, Antigua
Tuesday November 19, 2013
Price: $3.00
FOR HOSPITAL STAFF Read story on page 3
Remembering Accident Victims
The Antigua & Barbuda Road Safety Group on Sunday, marked World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims with a ceremony at the Clare Hall Triangle, where 27 bodies were displayed on the road to represent 27 road deaths over the last five years. As well, 27 flowers were lit under the theme "Remember Me." (Photo courtesy Alice Ho-Tack)
BREAKING NEWS 91.1FM / NEWS UPDATES www.antiguaobserver.com
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Obs erv er
WHAT’S ON
EXTENDED FORECAST
APPLY FOR LEAP 2014 The Leadership through Excellence Award Programme (LEAP) is accepting applications for the 2014 training cohort which begins January 6. Unemployed university graduates are invited to apply on the Government website at www.ab.gov.ag [1]. Further information will be given on the website. Only online applications will be accepted. Deadline for applications is November 30. Today EX SERVICEMEN MEETING Executive monthly meetings the Ex Servicemen’s and Women’s Association will be today, and Tuesday, December 17 at 5 pm. The general meeting will be on Saturday, December 7 at 3 pm. All meetings will be held at the Red Cross Headquarters on Old Parham Road. Members are requested to be on time or tender their apologies. Tomorrow DIALOGUE ON ASTHMA The AUA Asthma League will be hosting its first ‘Dialogue on Asthma’ event on Wednesday, tomorrow, at Mount Saint John’S Medical Center Auditorium, from 6 pm to 8 pm. The general public and particularly those affected by asthma will have an opportunity to learn more about the disease and interact directly with health care providers and advisors. There is no admission fee. November 23 SUGAR FACTORY LOCOMOTIVES The History of the Antigua Sugar Factory Locomotives and their Restoration is the subject of an upcoming multimedia presentation by Douglas Luery, Agnes Meeker and restoration expert Lawrence Gameson from the UK on Saturday, November 23, at 7 pm. Cocktails will precede the presentation at the upstairs gallery of the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda. $25 includes all cocktails; proceeds of the restoration project. November 24 THANKSGIVING LUNCH The Renal Society will hold its Annual Thanksgiving Lunch at Turner’s Beach Bar and Restaurant on Sunday, November 24. Please come and support this worthy cause. Tickets are available from the members of the Renal Society. November 28 TEA PARTY Antigua & Barbuda Association for Senior Citizens will be holding a tea party on November 28, from 2:30 to 5:30pm at the Senior Citizens Center on Emm's Drive, Fort Road. All are invited to support this fundraising activity. For further information call 7200058 or 721-1970. Send your notices to The Daily Observer: dailyobserver@antiguaobserver.com or fax: (268) 480 1757
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ON THE RADIO Day
Observer AM – 7– 9 am Daren Matthew Ward interviews people who make the Big Stories at home and across the region 7:15 am – Old Law, New Medium 8:15 am – Effective ways of Violence Prevention Good Morning Jojo – Joseph Apparicio & Carl Joseph 9–11 am 9:30 am – Cricketing Legend Andy Roberts 11:00 am – 2:00 pm – Voice of the People, “Where you set the agenda” 11-11:45 am – ABIA members join Dave “Beef” Joseph & Agnes Francis 12:45 pm – International Men’s
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THE BIG STORY
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Salaries late again for hospital staff By Martina Johnson The nearly 400 workers at Mount St John’s Medical Centre (MSJMC) were expecting their salaries on November 15 but instead they got an email on that day, indicating they would not be paid until further notice. In the email, the hospital’s management team said there was no indication when it would source finances to pay the staff. MSJMC Communications
Manager Salma Crump told OBSERVER media the situation remained the same up to yesterday. “Our wage bill is approximately $2 million and we cannot give a definite answer as to when we will be able to pay. Our challenges are significant. We have no funds to do what we need to do,” Crump said. The only way out of the situation, she said, is if government meets its obligations by paying the $3 million subvention it is contractually
Seafarers reminded to outfit vessels with safety equipment In the wake of a mishap at sea involving five adults who had to be rescued Sunday night, head of the Coast Guard unit, Captain Auden Nicholas is calling on seafarers to outfit their vessels with safety equipment, to include life jackets. Reports indicate while the adults were returning to the mainland from a picnic, the engine on their vessel failed and the boat capsized after taking on too much water. “The east coast of Antigua is generally rough even when the Met Office has given an all-clear for vessels to operate so persons who wish to operate in that area are asked to ensure they carry adequate life jackets for all passengers, VHF radios and a cellular phone as back-up for communication. “Preferably a water-
proof phone, or keep the phone properly secured so it wouldn’t become wet,” the captain advised. He said the Coast Guard is investigating the circumstances surrounding what transpired Sunday night. What he was able to confirm, was that five people were aboard the vessel when it encountered difficulties and had to call out for help from another vessel nearby. A passenger on the distressed vessel also called the Coast Guard, seeking assistance. While the second vessel was assisting those on the one with engine problems, the distressed vessel flipped and sank. Some of the passengers were thrown into the water, but they were all pulled to safety aboard the second vessel. No one was injured. (Martina Johnson)
bound to remit monthly. “We have been very open about the situation where government has not been meeting its obligations. Medical Benefits Scheme has been picking up the slack and they have been very supportive but we don’t know if it will do so this time. “Our CEO and his team are working right now to source monies and they are already doing so for the next pay period as well,” Crump added. Crump also said risk allowance payment would be delayed owing to government’s indebtedness to the hospital. Crump said MSJMC management is grateful that the workers have not taken industrial action. “It is very hard after people would have worked not to pay them. It is not
something we are happy to have to do and we are very pleased they are working closely with us and continuing to give service to the public,” Crump said. The financial challenges that have plagued the hospital for over a year has caused late payments and the reduction of outpatient services among other things. “We are in a better position now than earlier this year in terms of the outpatient services we offer, but we still have problems,” Crump said. “We have other obligations that we’ve had challenges meeting, such as purchasing equipment and supplies, maintenance and while the quality of our services have not been compromised, we’ve had to cut back on some of what we can offer,” Crump said.
Push to register all day care centres and pre-schools By Theresa Gordon Operators of day care facilities and pre-schools are being asked to register their institutions with the Early Childhood Development Centre. The process, currently under way, is to ensure that the institutions operate at optimal standards and in keeping with guidelines stipulated by the division, which falls under the Ministry of Education. Curriculum Officer attached to the department Viola Ephraim said there is mutual benefit in adhering
to the registration call. “We are issuing an appeal to those who have not yet done so to come in and ensure they are registered,” Ephraim said. She noted that operators receive materials as well as an understanding of what is expected of the institution and the roles and responsibilities of educators and parents. The process began a few weeks ago and the compliance process has been slow, Ephraim noted. She said there are close to 100 day care centres and pre-schools on island.
Listen to news updates during the day on OBSERVER Radio 91.1FM including the Big Stories at 6:45 am, 7:45 a.m., 8:45 am., 11:45 am., 5:30 pm
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NEWS
Notions of manhood come under the microscope on International Men’s Day By Kyle Christian
As the world celebrates International Men’s Day today under the theme, “Keeping Men and Boys Safe,” the nation is reminded that males, too, need protection. Research Officer in the Directorate of Gender Affairs Craig Rijkaard said stereotypes prevent society from facing the fact men face the same abuses women do. “Statistics are now are showing that men also are victims of violence, especially when it comes to bullying,” Rijkaard said. “We have a number of men, because of the stereotypes and the machismo which is embedded in our society, who do not generally seek medical attention and when they do go, it’s too late. We need to protect them in the sense that they need to take care of their health,” he added. International Men’s Day, inaugurated in 1999 in Trinidad, focuses on men’s health and well-being, promotes positive male role models, and aims to improve gender relations and promote gender equality. Rijkaard said the empowerment of women over the years has left many men feeling powerless, although it shouldn’t be a matter of competition. “The woman has now become the breadwinner of the family and the man feels his masculinity is threatened,” the research officer said. “We need to encourage the men that they, too, need to be empowered, and so they would not feel threatened when the woman is
more educated than the man,” Rijkaard said. He billed education as the avenue for young men to empower themselves, but noted that as one moves through the education system, the ratio of men to women becomes more skewed. “If you look at the ratio in the schools, in primary schools it’s one to one, in secondary schools girls are leading, in tertiary education it even jumps a step further,” Rijkaard said. “Many young men are seeing education as being a female thing. We need to encourage them that hustling on the street corner isn’t cutting it or just playing sports,” he added. Former president of Wesleyan Men Glenton Armstrong agreed that men should not feel marginalised by the empowerment of women. “It was never meant to be a competition really. From the beginning we were meant to complement each other. Men and women bring unique traits to the table,” Armstrong said. “Just looking at the normal family structure, we all bring our traits, what God has given us to bear. If both play their role, it will just help to strengthen the society,” he added. Armstrong said the need for support groups for men should never be questioned on the basis that men continue to be politically and economically empowered. “Somebody can be very successful in their career and still be an exceptionally poor father. Fatherhood is something that is something completely different,” he
said. The former president said under his leadership, fatherhood was a significant focus of Wesleyan Men. “We have a pattern in society of men abandoning their children. You only have to look at the courts to see lots of evidence of that where many mothers take fathers to court for financial support,” Armstrong said. “So if they are not giving the financial support, you can imagine the other moral and spiritual support that the children are not getting.” Armstrong added that young men commit most
crimes, and when traced, he found a link with the absence of men in the home. “The cure is men need to be taught to be good fathers. That would be a tremendous help to the society,” Armstrong said. International Men's Day, which is celebrated in over 60 countries around the world, also focuses on highlighting positive male role models and is an opportunity for men to celebrate their achievements and contributions, to community, family, marriage, and child care while highlighting the discrimination they face.
Weston: Solving unemployment is key
Opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP) Senator Lennox Weston said the party will focus on creating employment and will not support further austerity should they succeed in the 2014 general elections. Weston believes the current administration, by borrowing from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is stuck in a cycle of borrowing and cutting costs, which will take “25 to 30 years” to get out of. “You don’t solve fiscal deficits by trying to borrow to patch a hole,” said the ALP spokesperson for the economy and finance. Weston said an ALP government would focus on addressing five major issues, which he identified as the continued fiscal deficit, huge debt, unemployment, high cost of living and lack of investment. “If you solve the unemployment problems many of
the macro numbers will turn and become favourable your fiscal deficit, Social Security, social sector, health, family life, crime … all those things have a natural improvement,” said Weston. One of the short-term fixes Weston said the ALP is proposing is for a BOOT (build-own-operate-transfer) project to construct multiple floor office complexes to host government offices. “We have local Antiguans who can come together and do threestorey, four-storey office complexes,” said Weston, who said the Holberton Hospital site is earmarked as the prime location for the project. The ALP spokesman on the economy said the project would both create employment and “free up space downtown” and so lower “astronomical” rents in St John’s and create business Continued on page 6
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Small hoteliers focus on effective marketing By Tameika Malone Forging partnerships through sustainability and effective marketing techniques will be the focus of a five-day workshop for small hoteliers in and around Antigua & Barbuda. As of yesterday 20 properties started exploring ways to effectively convert visitors to their digital platforms into actual bookings. General Manager of the Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association Neil Forrester, in his address to the small property owners, noted that while it is said the small hotel appears to be a dying breed, their presence at the City View seminar was evidence of its survival. “No longer can a property sit by the phone and wait for it to ring, or create a website and wait for an email," he said. "Yes, guests still use their phones but not to call. It is used for online bookings. TripAdvisor stated that 45 million people use their mobile app on smartphones. They also estimate over US $8 billion of travel bookings will be made on smart phones in 2013.” Forrester said the digital presence is now a visitor’s first impression of what they should expect during their visit. He added that TripAdvisor, Expedia, Antiguanice and online booking travel agents should each be marketing partners for small hotels offering services worldwide. Under the umbrella of the Caribbean Development Bank’s technical assistance programme, Caribbean Technological Consultancy Services (CTCS), the initiative is being hosted and organised by the National Development
Co-ordinator Pamela Head, National Development Fund Executive Director Paul Bacchus and General Manager of the Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association Neil Forrester at the head table while hotelier Lynton Thomas moves the vote of thanks. (Photos by Tameika Malone)
Foundation (NDF). CTCS findings and observations from a survey conducted among small hotels of CARIFORUM were that many fall short of practising fundamental actions required to effectively promote and market their products and services. Areas in which small businesses failed were management techniques for micro, medium and macro businesses, financial management, business plan, computerised accounting systems and record keeping, design and development of small eco-tourism projects, food, hygiene and safety management and planning and development of small scale food businesses. “We must look, think and act like a team, so that by Friday, we definitely would have achieved our objective of moving to a level higher than when we first came here,” Executive
Director of the National Development Fund of Antigua & Barbuda, Paul Bacchus told participants. “You need to spend at least one day of the month brainstorming management and goal-setting, financial management issues, skills and expertise and access to capital, value input and cost of output and separate personal from business finance because small hotels have a weakness for linking everything.” Upon conclusion of the workshop on Friday, facilitator Pamela Belle, resource person for NDF said post sessions would be held to
assist participants to formulate or improve marketing plans. The seminar is being held under the theme “Marketing Techniques for Small Hotels”. Owner of Hodges Bay Apartments Ruth Spencer said, “I am looking forward to it, I need to take it to the next level. Innovation is the key.” Lynton Thomas, of Barbuda, noted that transportation continues to be responsible for the high cost in business on that island and that options must be explored to bring tourists over to the sister isle.
CHILD EVANGELISM FELLOWSHIP
All past students of the Child Evangelism Fellowship Level 1 TCE are invited to attend a very important meeting on Thursday, November 28 at 5 pm at the Christian Union Junior Academy School on Wireless Road. Contact the office at 561 7175, between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday, to indicate your availability.
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Weston from page 4 opportunities for citizens. Weston said another short-term fix would be the ALP’s pledge to have 500 homes constructed in 500 days, which he believes will be made possible by “tremendous liquidity” in local and regional banks. “We are going to have an arrangement where government would be subsidising the interest cost, that we can’t negotiate away, and extend the payment period,” said Weston. The senator said the party would seek to negotiate 3 to 5 per cent interest rates with the banks and ensure repayments could not be higher than 45 per cent of the household income. “We believe it’s cheaper for government to subsidise 1 or 2 percentage points on a mortgage than to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars taking care of people who are poor and need
state assistance.” A longer term “fix” for the economy proposed by the ALP spokesman is to help citizens to seek work abroad as part of an effort to “formalise” and make remittances the “biggest foreign exchange earner.” “We want to turn on its head the old adage about brain drain and to formalise remittances market … it’s really embodied human capital that you are exporting,” said Weston. “We’re now saying we’re going to take your skill as a human being and work externally and the benefit will be the remittances you send back.” Weston said Antigua & Barbuda would become the first country to organise the sector and “tie the training of our people tied to investment vehicles” such as “a simple savings account, a mortgage programme, (or) it could be simply a special bond by the regional market.”
Obs erv er The opposition spokesperson on the economy said support would be given in a wide range of areas including for those seeking work abroad as mechanics, truck drivers, bulldozer operators, special welders, pilots, doctors and health care workers. The ALP is also promising to repeal Personal Income Tax should the party be elected. Weston said people need more disposable income to boost the economy and noted that “when you give too much money to a government they tend to waste it.” The senator said the
party would also seek to phase in renewable energy in an effort to lower energy costs and allow manufacturing companies to set up base in the country. Weston said this would in part be doing by investing in geothermal energy in Montserrat and by asking the Chinese government to replace the Wadadli Power Plant with a twin wind and solar energy farm. The senator said the ALP is also proposing to triple the number of rooms at The Royal Antiguan Hotel and create a convention centre with the capacity for 6,000 to 8,000 people.
FRIENDS OF MSJMC FUND-RAISER
The Friends of Mount St John’s Medical Centre presents “An Evening of Entertainment & Dance” on Saturday, November 30, at Sandals Grande Resort from 7:30 pm. Contribution is $100 and entertainment includes cocktails, auction, Cutting Edge Band, Lacku Samuel, and more. A cash bar will also be open. Proceeds are in aid of “Patient Safety Equipment” for MSJMC.
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Judith Winter said she has no hatred for those who shot her in August and left her paralysed. (Photo by Martina Johnson)
Last lap shooting victim says she’s thankful for life and help By Martina Johnson Shooting victim Judith Winter said she bears no hatred for those who shot her and left her paralysed from the waist down. The 62-year-old woman who said she’s more focused on recovering and living a Christian life, is extremely grateful that she survived the ordeal. She also expressed gratitude for the public support she has received. “I’ve turned my life to Christ since I got shot and I feel quite good about that. I’m quite contented and I want to thank the public for its support. I want them to continue to support me in their prayers and whatever they do I appreciate it. I want to thank the doctors, nurses, family members, my kids, and everybody who has done anything in their own way,” the former Transport Board worker said. During the interview which took place at her bedside yesterday, the mother of nine said she is not worried whether she would walk again, but she’s hopeful. She smiled throughout
the exchange, even as she said she still experiences pain in her shoulder where the bullet entered. “It hurts, not as bad as before, but I feel pain. The bullet went through my right shoulder and shattered the bone, so I still have to wear a sling after they took off the cast. The bullet went across my back and was lodged on the lower left side of my back,” Winter said. The bullet damaged Winter’s tissues near her spine, rendering her paralysed. She underwent surgery in Trinidad to repair the damage and doctors indicated there’s a 50/50 chance she’ll walk again. The retiree, who is unable to sit up or move her legs, said she recently began experiencing involuntary movements in both legs. However, her doctors told her it is only a sign that there’s life in the legs, and not an indication she would walk again. Three men are currently on remand awaiting committal for the shooting incident that occurred on August 6, during Last Lap celebrations.
Civil Aviation Minister John Maginley said the airport radar system is fully functioning. (Photo by Tameika Malone)
Gov’t awaits ECCAA approval for radar upgrade By Tameika Malone Antigua & Barbuda is now awaiting approval from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) on a proposal to outfit the new airport with a radar system. “ECCAA has the proposal before them and once ECCAA and the airport traffic controllers, Shanette Phillip and her people sign off on it, we will be going to the consultants to finance it,” Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation John Maginley said. The minister said the move is part of a revamping project to equip the airport with advanced technology. “We have $3.5 million in
SEAFOOD FIESTA
the budget to redo the entire radar for the VC Bird International Airport to go along with our new airport,” he added. Maginley sought to stave off concern, adding that the current radar system is working but the air traffic controllers do not rely on it to guide planes into the airport. He said air traffic controllers have always trusted the procedural approach method and that there are no safety issues. The minister said the upgrade to technology already being used in neighbouring Barbados, St Maarten and Trinidad, requires ECCAA sanctioning.
Seafood pasta, grilled lobster, crab fritters, all of these delicacies and more will be at the Pre Heros Day Urlings Seafood Fiesta on Sunday, December 8, at Urlings Fishing Complex starting at noon. There will be live entertainment and lots to eat and drink. So make it a family event.
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Maginley supports call for regional tourism marketing en bloc By Kyle Christian
Minister of Tourism John Maginley said he supports the renewed call for Caribbean islands to market themselves as a single regional destination but that such a plan should not replace individual promotions. “We are part of the Caribbean Tourism O r g a n i s a t i o n ’ s OneCaribbean.org, which promotes the Caribbean as a region, and we believe that a rising tide will float all boats,” Maginley said. “It does not mean that each of the destinations will not do their individual marketing and promotions. It must be in conjunction with your market programmes in your individual islands.” Maginley’s comments follow pronouncements from Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) made at the recently concluded World Travel
Market in London. CTO President Beverly Nicholson-Doty speaking on OBSERVER AM called once again for Caribbean ministries of tourism to pool resources for collective marketing. “Based on the economies of scale none of our individual territories have the marketing budgets that we need that could put the focus to make us competitive with the rest of the world,” she said. Maginley reported that the nation already contributes to the CTO’s general marketing fund. “We are in support of it and we are in support of CTDC (Caribbean Tourism Development Corporation) creating their own source of revenue,” he told OBSERVER. Maginley said there has been some discussion about a per-passenger fee to fund the marketing effort. “I think the CTO and the CTDC are creating their own opportunities to sell
Isaac won’t nominate 7th ABEC commissioner
Speaker of the House D Gisele Isaac said she is reserving her right not to appoint a seventh member to the Antigua & Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC). The right fell to Isaac after the Antigua & Barbuda Employers’ Federation, Chamber of Commerce and Antigua & Barbuda Trade Union Congress (TUC) failed to agree on a nominee. But Isaac said she is not required to submit a nomination if it appears ABEC is not in need of a seventh commissioner. “I got advice legally and basically I am not oblig-
ed to name a seventh commissioner unless it is clear to me that the work of the commission is being frustrated,” said Isaac. The Speaker of the House said the three parties have until year-end to come back to her with an agreed nominee or there will be no seventh commissioner. “I am still in talks with those three organisations. I have been approached by one of them to ask if I would reconsider if they could agree on a candidate if I would do the recommendation, so we are in current talks on that,” said Isaac.
the Caribbean as a brand and raising their own monies without relying on individual governments again,” he said. “You know it’s difficult to raise money to do your own marketing now to go and do additional marketing somewhere else is challenging.” Critics of regional marketing have argued that such an approach would intensify competition between islands and disproportionately benefit the more well-known destinations. Meanwhile, Maginley appeared less worried about competition from neighbouring islands as he welcomed news that St Kitts & Nevis has been targeting the high-end tourist market, a niche Antigua & Barbuda has formally pursued for some years now. “All competition is good so the more people talk about St Kitts and this
region the better it is for Antigua as well,” he said. “I congratulate St Kitts making that move. It reinforces what we have found that our destination because of the distance from the source markets the higher-end properties tend to do better.” St Kitts Tourism Minister Richard Skeritt yesterday announced that his government would be shifting its focus from the quantity of tourists that visit their destination to the quality. “We don’t deal with how many people come anymore, it’s not that important to us. We just want every individual who comes to have the best possible experience he or she can have and leave here with no money in their pocket,” he said. “I smile every time I hear the critics talking about numbers because numbers can be abused and misused as you want to.”
Asthmatics, their caretakers and anyone interested in knowing more about the respiratory condition will have the opportunity Wednesday, November 20, during the upcoming "Dialogue on Asthma". The event, hosted by American University of Antigua (AUA) School of Medicine, is set for the auditorium of Mount St John's Medical Centre, 6 pm to 8 pm. It is open to the public. "The AUA Asthma League, comprised primarily of AUA medical students and local health care providers, was formed in response to a call issued earlier this year by Vernon Solomon, AUA faculty member, director,
Emergency Medicine Training Centre (EMTC) and Respiratory Care Practitioner," a release from the AUA Asthma League said. "Mr Solomon and his students were moved by the incidence of asthma in Antigua & Barbuda and the high occupancy levels in the Asthma Bay at the Mount St John’s Medical Centre. "The response to the call was immediate and earlier this year, the AUA Asthma League was formed," it added. Amisha Patel-Oza, who is spearheading the "Managing your Asthma" project, is extending an invitation to all asthma sufferers to participate in the event. There is no admission fee.
Medical team to discuss managing asthma
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Chamber of Commerce applauded for hosting inaugural trade show By Theresa Gordon
It was not the turnout they expected, but, for the most part, members of the business community are applauding the efforts of the Antigua & Barbuda Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the initiative taken to host the first home trade show. The exposition, which spanned the weekend at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre, brought more than 30 business partners in one place to showcase their offerings to the public. The overall objective, according to the Chamber of Commerce, was to promote local manufacturers. A number of business owners said they were able to realise sales while others were left with promises of future purchases. One exhibitor described the event as a step in the right direction, adding it was timely. However, some of the exhibitors were of the view that the show needs to be better promoted in the future. “I think if they had more time to advertise it, the public would be more aware. For us, though, it was a good spinoff from many individuals who did not know about the business and what we offer,” one businessman said. “It’s an excellent initiative and, hopefully, it can become better over time. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the products and just before Christmas, the timing could not have been better,” said another. Chamber of Commerce President Dr Errol Samuel was not at all disturbed by the mixed reactions. In fact, he said the organisation was
FirstCaribbean International Bank was one of several businesses which took part in the Home Trade Show hosted by the Antigua & Barbuda Chamber of Commerce over the weekend
pleased with the “first attempt,” adding that the event would become an annual staple. “We are very encouraged with the display. The exhibitors and the visitors
are also pleased, and we conducted the event around the Christmas season when people are thinking of beautifying their homes,” Dr Samuel said. Lingies Lights and
Windows, Gigi Industries, the Furniture Gallery, Living Spaces, and FirstCaribbean International Bank were some of the businesses that participated in the Scotiabank-sponsored event.
IRS warns of resurfaced Internet scam Phishing scammers are at it again. This time around they're posing as representatives of the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and targeting taxpayers. The US Embassy said people have been receiving messages purportedly from the IRS claiming they were entitled to a refund and requesting credit card numbers for money transferal of funds. A statement from the office noted that the fraudsters posing as IRS representatives send emails to individuals informing them that, if they are awaiting a
refund, they can check the progress of the refund by clicking on a link contained in the email. "This link directs individuals to a website that requests personal information including Social Security Numbers (SSN) and Credit Card information," the communiqué read. "The website may also attempt to infect your system with malicious code. "It is not the practice of the IRS to request this type of information. The IRS warns that care should always be taken when disclosing personal information."
Taxpayers have been urged to be suspicious of emails that urge them to act quickly or their accounts would be suspended or closed; emails that are generic and don’t address them by name; or any emails requesting personal information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers credit card numbers or passwords. "If taxpayers have any doubt whether a contact from the IRS is authentic, they should call 1-800-8291040 or the United States Embassy in Bridgetown at 227-4000," the US Embassy advised.
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AUCTION SALE NOTICE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA A.D. 2013 AUCTION SALE NOTICE The Chargee having acquired the legal right, therefor, I will sell on site by public auction on Thursday the 12th day of December, 2013 at 3:00 pm the right title and interest of the owners WILLIE NASH JR. & KAREN NASH in the under mentioned property. REGISTRATION SECTION: CASSADA GARDENS & NEW WINTHROPES BLOCK: 42 1894B PARCEL: 128 The property is located at Cedar Valley, Antigua in the Registration Section known as Cassada Gardens & New Winthropes. The property consist of a parcel of land, which measures 0.35 acres or 15,407 sq ft with two (2) buildings thereon. Building #1 is a three (3) storey reinforced concrete and concrete blocks class B building. The said building of approximately 4690 square feet. The basement area approximately 701 square feet accommodates pump room and storage area and an incomplete wine cellar. The main floor area approximately 2615 square feet accommodates entry porch, 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, living room, dining room, kitchen, pantry laundry room and deck. Upper floor area approximately 567 square accommodates master suite, office and deck.
feet
Amenities- Approximately 12,000 gallon swimming pool and 600 square feet deck. Building #2. A studio apartment approximately 5675 square feet single story reinforced concrete and concrete blocks class B, building which accommodates a bedroom and general living area, kitchen and verandah. The parcel of land has a gentle slope with characteristics of an average building plot. The said parcel has an almost rectangular shape. There is no evidence of flooding or neighborhood nuisance during normal storm conditions. The parcel of land is bounded on the East parcel 129, on the North by parcels 8 & 199, on the West by parcel 127 and on the south by a public road. The service lines for portable water, telephone and electricity which are provided by A.P.U.A. are accessible to the property. DATED the 14th day of November, 2013. NATHANIEL PADDY JAMES Licensed Auctioneer For further particulars, contact Nathaniel Paddy James, Licensed Auctioneer of P.O. Box 1724 Marble Hill, St. Johnʼs, Antigua. Telephone: 461-3530/ Fax 461 3530.
Obs erver
Our Neighbours Dancehall entertainer pleads not guilty to murder charge KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Singer Adidja Palmer, known in the entertainment industry as “Vybz Kartel”, will return to the Home Circuit Court on Tuesday when jury selection is expected to be completed in his murder trial. Kartel and his five coaccused have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams, who the prosecution said had been killed at the home of the entertainer on August 18, 2011. His body has never been found. Nine of the 12 jurors were
selected on Monday when the case was called. The other accused are entertainer Shawn Campbell, popularly known as “Shawn Storm”, fashion designer Calvin Haye, André St John, Shane Williams and Kahira Jones. The police allege that Williams was killed after he and another man, who is the prosecution’s main witness, were taken to Kartel’s home to account for a lost firearm. Police said that they have in their possession video and audio recordings linking all the accused to the murder.
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, CMC - Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has described as “a nationalist victory” the outcome of a longstanding legal battle that will result in 100 acres of beachfront land in Union Island in the Southern Grenadines returned to the State. The London-based Privy Council has ordered that the government pay before January 25, next year, US $244,968.87, to the Chatham Bay Club Ltd and Chatham Bay Corp over the sale of the land purchased from the state in 1987. The ruling by the Privy
Council, the island’s highest and final court, came after both parties agreed to a settlement that allowed for the companies to withdraw its appeal. Gonsalves, who is also Minister of Legal Affairs, in announcing the ruling at a press conference on Monday, said that the lands have been forfeited to the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines by operation of the Alien Land Holdings Act and judgment of the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Privy Council’s consent order. “This is a case that involves the reclamation of our patrimony,” he said.
Gov’t claims victory in legal tussle over beachfront property
Want to hear the latest talk? Tune in to OBSERVER Radio 91.1FM
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CIA accused of secretly collecting data on money transfers to the Caribbean WASHINGTON DC, United States, CMC – The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been accused of secretly collecting bulk records of money transfers to the Caribbean and other places handled by companies like Western Union and MoneyGram.
Gunmen kill student KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – A 16-year-old secondary school student died Monday after she had been shot by gunmen who invaded her home in the eastern parish of St Thomas on Sunday. Police said that Kadiane Smith, a fifth form student of the Morant Bay High School, was at home with her grandmother when the gunmen entered the home and shot them. The student was hit in the head while the grandmother as shot in the upper body. Police said a vehicle with the gunmen was later intercepted by law enforcement authorities and the gunmen detained. Classes at the school have been suspended and students are receiving counselling. A-FOOD-A-FAIR The Ebenezer Methodist Church on St Mary’s Street will hold “A-Food-A-Fair” on Saturday, November 30, from 12 noon to 8 pm, featuring food from the Caribbean, USA, India, Africa and Syria. There will be entertainment and added attractions for the whole family. Tickets cost $20 and proceeds are in aid of Church Restoration.
Government officials said the transfers include transactions into and out of the United States under the same law that the US National Security Agency (NSA) uses for its huge database of Americans’ phone records. The New York Times, quoting several current and former government offi-
cials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the matter is classified, said the programme is authorised by provisions in the Patriot Act and overseen by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. “The intelligence community collects bulk data in a number of different ways under multiple authorities,”
one intelligence official told the paper. Dean Boyd, a spokesman for the CIA, declined to confirm whether such a programme exists, but said that the agency conducts lawful intelligence collection aimed at foreign “not domestic” activities and that it is subject to extensive oversight.
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World View
Illinois City locked down as officials assess tornado damage WASHINGTON, Illinois (Reuters) - Police were turning residents away from Washington, Illinois, on Monday morning, the day after a series of tornadoes pounded the Midwest, killing six people across the state and flattening much of the city of 15,000 people. Bits of American flags and insulation from destroyed homes clung to trees that had been stripped of most of their branches and remaining leaves by the Washington twister. Spawned by a fast-moving storm system, the tornado had winds of up to 200 miles per hour. The storm, which killed one person in Washington, destroyed 250 to 500 houses in that city, said Mayor Gary Manier. He said authorities were keeping evacuated residents away out of concern that the remaining structures were dangerously unstable. "I know it's frustrating for people," Manier said amid piles of rubble left by the storm. "I'd be frustrated. I'd want to be looking for pictures." The storm killed three people in Massac Country, two in Washington County and one in the city of Washington, in Tazewell County, said Patti Thompson of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. It produced about 80 tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service. The tornadoes levelled scores of homes and demolished entire neighbourhoods. The National
Weather Service confirmed preliminary EF-4 tornado damage in Washington County in southern Illinois, with winds of 166 to 200 miles per hour. Nancy Rampy, 62, said she fled to her basement when she heard the storm sirens go off on Sunday. "It got real calm and I knew that was bad because I've been in a tornado before. And then I heard what sounded like 12 trains, just roaring down the tracks, and it just wouldn't stop. It just kept coming and coming," Rampy said. "I ran to the basement, sat in the basement with my flashlight in the dark and just prayed let it be over soon." Rampy's house was spared, she said, as she headed into work at a Chevrolet dealership a few blocks from the area that had been destroyed. The unusual late-season storms moved dangerously fast, tracking east at 60 miles per hour, with the bulk of the damage spanning about five hours, Thompson said. Remnants of the storm
A Thanksgiving Service celebrating the life of
John “Bushy” Gonsalves of Bolans Village will be held at the Holy Family Cathedral on Friday November 22nd, 2013 at 4 pm. No flowers please.
A police officer escorts a boy out of the area as he carries belongings through the destruction caused by a tornado that touched down in Washington, Illinois, November 18, 2013. (Reuters photo)
brought rain and wind to the northeastern United States on Monday morning. The storm knocked down power lines across the
Midwest, and power companies reported that some 800,000 homes and businesses were without electricity on Monday morning.
AUCTION NOTICE
AUCTION NOTICE
REGISTRATION SECTION BARNES HILL & COOLIDGE BLOCK 41-2094A PARCEL 438 Instructed by the ANTIGUA COMMERCIAL BANK, I shall sell by PUBLIC AUCTION on Tuesday the 19th day of November 2013 at 2:00 p.m. the above property located at Cassada Gardens under the ownership of Eric Burton. The land is recorded as measuring approximately 1.0 acre or 43,560 sq ft. The property is an undeveloped parcel of land which is covered by vegetation, in an established agricultural area. The site is virtually flat but it slopes to the west and south. The Auction shall be held on site. Further particulars may be obtained from Mr. Trevor Santos, Licensed Auctioneer, Tel: 562-7653, 720-7653 or 464-7653 Dated the 28th day of October 2013 TREVOR SANTOS - Licensed Auctioneer
REGISTRATION SECTION JENNINGS BLOCK 53 1588F PARCEL 97 Instructed by the ANTIGUA COMMERCIAL BANK, I shall sell by PUBLIC AUCTION on Tuesday the 3rd day of December 2013 at 3:00 p.m. the above property located at Jennings Village under the ownership of Edward Baynes. The land has a moderate slope and is recorded as measuring approximately 0.5 acre or 21,780 sq ft. The building, measuring approximately 1,555 sq. ft., is a part masonry and wood structure comprising an upper floor and basement level. The main floor consists of three bedrooms, living/dining room, kitchen, bathroom and a laundry room along with two patios. The basement level consists of an office and a garage. The property is bounded on the East by Parcel No. 224, on the West by Parcels No. 67 and 197, on the North by Parcel No. 157 and on the South by a Road and Parcel No. 154. The Auction shall be held on site. Further particulars may be obtained from Mr. Nathaniel ʻPaddyʼ James, Public Auctioneer, Tel: 461-3530 Dated the 28th October 2013
day
of
NATHANIEL JAMES - Licensed Auctioneer
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Globe at a Glance YORK NEW Thousands of victims of Bernard Madoff's fraud, including many who have so far recovered nothing, may start pursuing an additional $2.35 billion to cover some of their losses, US Attorney Preet Bharara in New York said on Monday. The sum represents money obtained by federal prosecutors through criminal and civil forfeiture actions since Madoff's massive Ponzi scheme was uncovered in December 2008.
AUCTION NOTICE REGISTRATION SECTION: English Harbour BLOCK: 35 2780A PARCEL: 392 Instructed by Williams Grant Inc., Attorneys-AtLaw for ABI Bank Ltd I shall sell by Public Auction on Tuesday 26th November 2013 at 4:00 p.m. On Site, the above property located at Piccadilly, St. Paulʼs, Antigua under the ownership of KAREN CALLIAS of Sawcolts, St. Maryʼs, Antigua. The property is a vacant parcel of land measuring approximately 0.5 acres with gentle slopes and is located before the Yao Factory. Details of the Auction may be obtained from Mr. Trevor Santos Licensed Auctioneer at 464-7653, 720-7653 or 562-7653. Dated the 28th day of October,2013. TREVOR TEDDY SANTOS Licensed Auctioneer
Russia KAZAN, Russian investigators sifted through the charred remains of a Boeing 737-500 airliner on Monday in the search for clues about what caused it to crash and burst into flames, killing all 50 people on board. Sunday's crash raised new concerns about Russia's poor safety record as it prepares to host the Winter Olympics in the southern city of Sochi in February, an event on which President Vladimir Putin has staked much personal
AUCTION NOTICE
INSTRUCTED BY the EASTERN CARIBBEAN AMALGAMATED BANK LIMITED of 1000 Airport Boulevard, St. Georgeʼs Antigua, I shall sell by Public Auction on Tuesday 19th November, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. on site, the property located at St. Clair Height in the Parish of St. Johnʼs in Antigua and recorded in the Land Registry as follows: REGISTRATION SECTION Bendals BLOCK 51 1888A PARCEL 57 The parcel of land, owned by Geotech Company Ltd of registered office St. Maryʼs Street, St. Johnʼs, Antigua, measures approximately 1.75 acres, has a gentle slope and may be described as a developing middle income residential neighbourhood. Access is provided by roads, service lines for potable water, telephone and electricity are accessible to the general area. Particulars of sale can be obtained from the undersigned at telephone no. 562 7653/729 7653.
Obs erver political prestige. AMMAN/ARSAL, Lebanon - President Bashar al-Assad's forces fired rocket and artillery barrages on a besieged mountain town near Lebanon on Monday in a push to capture the strategic area following advances against rebels in Damascus and in the north of Syria. In a separate setback for the fighters, a prominent rebel leader died overnight in a Turkish hospital of wounds suffered in an air raid on Aleppo. TOKYO - The operator of Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant took the first step on Monday in the long and hazardous process of decommissioning the facility, extracting four fuel rods
AUCTION NOTICE REGISTRATION SECTION BARNES HILL & COOLIDGE BLOCK 41-2296A PARCEL 42
Instructed by the ANTIGUA COMMERCIAL BANK, I shall sell by PUBLIC AUCTION on Wednesday the 20th day of November 2013 at 2:00 p.m. the above property located in Coolidge, under the ownership of Peter Harker. The property is located in an area generally described as a middle income residential neighbourhood.
The land is recorded as measuring approximately 2.0 acres or 87,120 sq. ft., with a plant nursery and the following structures thereon:
• Building # 1 (two-storey apartment) approx. floor area of 4,984.02 sq ft • Building # 2 (Bandstand) floor area of 288 sq. ft • Building # 3 (Restaurant)floor area of approx. 3,190 sq ft; • Building # 4 (Storeroom/Office) - floor area of approx. 1,256 sq. ft. • The Stage - floor area of 412.50 sq ft • Water Fountain - floor area of approx. 50 sq. ft • Gazebo- floor area of approx. 215 sq. ft.
The Auction shall be held on site.
Dated the 30th October, 2013
Further particulars may be obtained from Mr. Trevor Santos, Public Auctioneer, Tel: 5627653, 720-7653 or 464-7653
Trevor “Teddy” Santos Licensed Auctioneer www.go-going-gone.com
TREVOR SANTOS - Licensed Auctioneer
Dated the 28th day of October 2013
from their container for later removal. Tokyo Electric Power Co, known as Tepco, said it transferred the rods to a steel cask within the same cooling pool in a badly damaged reactor building, beginning the delicate and unprecedented task of removing 400 tonnes of highly irradiated spent fuel from that reactor. DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan - Sectarian violence spread in Pakistan on Monday after clashes between minority Shi'ite and majority Sunni Muslims near the capital Islamabad prompted the government to impose a curfew and block mobile phone services over the weekend. Clashes confined to areas in and around the capital at the weekend spilled over on Monday into two towns in the volatile northwest. WASHINGTON - A federal judge in New York has ordered MF Global Inc to return more than $1 billion to harmed customers and pay an additional $100 million penalty as part of a civil settlement with US derivatives regulators. The November 8 court order by US District Judge Victor Marrero for the Southern District of New York was announced by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission on Monday in a press release. JOHANNESBURG Nelson Mandela remains in a stable but critical condition more than two months after hospital doctors treating him for a lung infection let him return home to convalesce, the South African government said on Monday. The former South African president was still "quite ill" and unable speak because of tubes in his mouth to clear fluid from his lungs, ex-wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, told the Sunday Independent newspaper.
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Editorial Making the most of OUR OPINION
In pockets, men across Antigua & Barbuda, will join with their peers across the world to celebrate today’s International Men’s Day. The first International Men’s Day was held in Trinidad & Tobago on November 19, 1999 and, over the years, the number of countries observing the day has increased to well over 60. Reports indicate that representatives of international organisations, like the United Nations, have expressed support for the day, although it is not an official UN observance. In fact, a petition has been circulated to give the day prominence on the UN calendar, in the interest of equality, given the UN observance of International Women’s Day, which is celebrated on March 8. The theme for 2013 is “Keeping Men and Boys Safe.” The theme aims to target specific areas, namely keeping men and boys safe by tackling male suicide; keeping boys safe so they can become tomorrow’s leaders; tackling tolerance of violence against men and boys; boosting men’s life expectancy by keeping men and boys safe from avoidable illness and death; and keeping men and boys safe by promoting fathers and male role models. Respective communities have been asked, today, to consider the actions that can be taken to protect men and boys from harm and provide them with a safe world where they can prosper and thrive. Information on internationalmensday.com notes the imperative of taking time out to think of the safe-
International Men’s Day
ty of men and boys instead of focusing on their current and prospective roles of provider and protector. The call to action for men is to huddle, in their respective spheres, in workshops or meetings, or engaging in community activity that will focus on overcoming the challenges and finding ways to improve gender relations and promote unity. The day should be a celebration among men of men and for men of the best of what the male collective is. But it should also be a time of deep introspection to honestly address the issues, such entrenched patriarchy and the notions of manhood, that hamper men and, in turn, the societies in which they live. The point must be made that today’s observance of International Men’s Day should not be a men vs women affair, and it should not be a day to lament the perceived whittling away of their “power.” A false way to view today is to think that it is parallel to International Women’s Day. The seeds for International Women’s Day were planted in 1909, with a garment workers’ strike in New York, which saw women protesting working conditions and lesser wages. Momentum built a year later with meeting in Copenhagen to honour the movement for women’s rights and to build support for universal suffrage. The annual observance of International Women’s Day recognises women for their achievements without regard to divisions,
and it is a day to plan so that all women can realise their full potential. While International Men’s Day is a time to focus on issues affecting men, it is false to assume that the same gender biases exist or that it is a time to celebrate patriarchy and bemoan the slow but perhaps steady dismantling of the destructive divide. If not handled with due care and caution, the day can widen the chasm instead of bridge the divide. In Antigua & Barbuda, over the years, little if any notice has been paid to the day, save for news articles in OBSERVER. That fact has not stopped some men from instantly and negatively reacting to notices of activities on International Women’s Day, which are organised by women for women. Given the issues that are discussed in Antigua & Barbuda, including boys in education; men in the workforce; the concept of male leadership in the home, the society and the church; and the absence of a plethora of positive role models, men across the country would have been
well served with activities that would begin meaningful dialogue that could draft a road map to beneficial transformation. We hope conscious men will use the day to reach out to their errant brothers. We trust they will spend time highlighting real do-right men whose efficacy to their families and communities is in more than their earning potential. We hope men will eschew the me-too-ism syndrome, which could force them to observe a day simply because women have a day. The Caribbean Male Action Network (CariMAN), which reportedly has members in Antigua & Barbuda, has approached the day – and all of its activities – as a time when men can explore “the diverse issues of manhood and gender as they affect their daily choices and the social issues affecting development.” In the absence of widespread action – or perhaps lack of awareness – we hope that the men who observe today will use the opportunity for the greater good.
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"Arwe need fu get rid ah da jumby dey!"
Older employees have commitments and worth, too Dear Editor The company I am employed with has offered voluntary severance but not enough employees came forward. The company has gone into the next stage and will sever some people. We notice that the company wants to sever older employees. By older, I mean employees who are past 45.
NATURALISATION NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Yasmil Valdez Juan of Cooks Hill, Antigua, is applying to the Minister for Naturalisation and that any person who knows any reason why Naturalisation should not be granted should send a written and signed statement of the facts to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.
We know that most companies prefer youth in their front offices where first impressions count, and, yes, in other areas, the youth often come up with different ideas and different methods, but as the more mature employees, we are the ones who tend to be stable. Employers don’t easily
NATURALISATION NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that YLSA ANTONIA SILVERIO of, Willikeis Village, Antigua, is applying to the Minister for Naturalisation and that any person who knows any reason why Naturalisation should not be granted should send a written and signed statement of the facts to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.
hire people over 50, and it is very difficult for us to compete with school-leavers and university graduates if we are the ones now trying to be re-employed. Most people at 50 are still paying mortgage, university fees, car loans, etc. You may receive $100,000 for severance but you still have bills to pay,
NATURALISATION NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that ANA MERCEDES TERRERO DE LA PAZ of St. Johnsonʼs Village, Antigua, is applying to the Minister for Naturalisation and that any person who knows any reason why Naturalisation should not be granted should send a written and signed statement of the facts to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.
and if you have no income that severance can very quickly disappear. A company that wants to sever employees who are over 45 in favour of the younger ones is just plain heartless when we are the ones with the most commitments. HR
NATURALISATION NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that Samaher Alassil of Cedar Valley, Antigua, is applying to the Minister for Naturalisation and that any person who knows any reason why Naturalisation should not be granted should send a written and signed statement of the facts to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs.
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STELLA WILDER
YOUR BIRTHDAY Born today, you are a lively and enthusiastic individual, able at all times to see the positive elements in even the most challenging or negative of situations. You are not the kind to balk when things get tough. When something is standing in your way, you continue moving forward as best you can while considering with great care what to do when you arrive at the obstacle itself -- confident that when you get there, you will know what to do. You are quick to size up a situation, and just as quick to size up other people. However, there is sometimes the danger that you will judge too quickly and come up with the wrong ideas about someone. You don't always want to act on an attraction, for you sometimes feel that getting involved in a relationship may actually prevent you from doing the things that you have set yourself to do. Still, love is a major part of your life -- or, at the very least, romance. Also born on this date are: Elizabeth Perkins, actress; Sinbad, comedian; Linda Evans, actress; Brenda Vaccaro, actress; Alan Shepard Jr., first American in space; Johnny Mercer, singer-songwriter; Imogene Coca, comedian; Eugene Ormandy, violinist and conductor. To see what is in store for you tomorrow, find your birthday and read the corresponding paragraph. Let your birthday star be your daily guide.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- You may be the recipient of something that not only takes you by surprise, but that can also propel you forward at an increased pace. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Some may think you're at the end of your rope, but you are confident that you have the magic ingredient up your sleeve. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- A meeting of minds enables you to organize your thinking and formulate a plan that can be carried out in a logical, productive fashion. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Many are feeling emotional about something that was not at all expected, but you're confident that a rational approach can prevail. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) -- You know what is expected of you, and you know that you can come through. What you don't know is that a secret someone roots for you. ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Although you didn't realize it before, you are likely to learn that you have been in the presence of a great many supporters all along. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) -- You may want to get more information before you pledge your allegiance to a new and tricky endeavor -- though the proposals are intriguing! GEMINI (May 21-June 20) -- You have a way of saying things that helps others understand even the most complicated of issues. Politics will affect you today. CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- You're waiting for the arrival of someone who can help you put everything into perspective. Until then, refrain from any big decisions. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Around the table with you are many who share your belief that good can come from bad. Today, you'll all be supercharged and ready to go! VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Others may not see you in a leading role right now, but you feel confident that if you are given the nod, you can acquit yourself quite well. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- You may have to travel out of your comfort zone in order to get the information you need and acquire the tools necessary to do a job.
Answer to previous Sudoku Puzzle
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Obs erver
Answer to previous Scrabblegram
JUMP START 速 by Robb Armstrong
PEANUTS速 by Charles M. Schulz
DILBERT速 by Scott Adams
ROSE IS ROSE速 by Pat Brady
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PRESENTS
Obs erv er
The Love
Booth
YOUR RELATIONSHIP QUESTIONS ANSWERED
With Koren Norton
I would really like to know, why do men cheat? What you probably really want to ask is if it is your fault if someone cheats on you. Well, different men cheat for different reasons, but all men cheat because they can – someone is willing to do it with them and so they do. Some of the common excuses are that they are not being taken care of in
their relationship or they are not in love with their partner any more or the other woman came onto them. Some men have strong biological urges and can have relations with a woman even if they have no emotional connection to her, so once it is available, they take it. If someone cheats on you, then you need to find out the specific reason why, so if you intend to stay together, you can work to eliminate the possibility of recurrence. My boyfriend and his ex still talk and at first I told him it didn’t bother me because I didn’t want to act like I was jealous and insecure and I wasn’t sure where the relationship was going. Now we are more serious, I wish he could stop being so chummy with her. I’m not sure what
ARBOR DAY PLANT FAIR
In commemoration of Arbor Day, the Environment Division will be having a Plant Fair on Thursday, November 28 from 12 to 4 pm at the Botanical Gardens, under the theme Let’s Make Oxygen. The general public is invited to bring plant bags (10 x 12) in order to get plants. Each plant will be exchanged for five bags.
SAGICOR LIFE INC GEORGE ALBERT PIGOTT of Hodges Bay, St. Johnʼs, Antigua having made sworn deposition that Policy No. S00092822 issued or assumed by Sagicor Life Inc. on his life has been lost and having make application to the Directors to grant a duplicate of the same, notice is hereby given that unless objection is raised within one month of the date hereof, the duplicate policy asked for will be issued. Dated: 15th November, 2013 By Order SANDRA OSBORNE - Corporate Secretary
chummy means but I do understand when you say they still talk. He is with you! He is not with her and you probably obsess about her more than he thinks about her, so just stop. Going on and on about her will make him wonder why he is even with you and the nagging and misery can make him gravitate toward her. The best way to help a man forget his ex is to just not bring her up at all, but rather, ensure that you are the best girlfriend ever and make your experiences with him so awesome, it will overshadow any memory he has of him and her. I’m taking a woman out whom I have wanted to date for a long time. But I am unsure of one thing: how much do I spend on a first
date so that I do not overdo, but at the same time, I don’t come across as cheap? It’s sad that the success of a date is measured by how much money is spent. Don’t worry about the money, think of who she is and what she likes and go somewhere or do something that you both will enjoy and which will give you a chance to get to know each other and to have fun. What you spend will depend on where you go. I know sometimes it’s difficult for a man to decide what to do because women can be so critical, but just be yourself and show up looking good and smelling nice and be open to the potential possibilities. (Send your questions to askkoren@live.com or connect via twitter @korennorton)
God’s Minute Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. (1 John 3:21-22 *NKJV) Now would you change the way that you live if you knew that God knew all of your thoughts, heard all of your words, and knew all the desires of your heart? Well, He does for it is written: The Lord knows the thoughts of man that they are futile. For He also knows the secrets of the heart. (Psalms 94:11) & (Psalms 44:21) Now when we try our best to have pure thoughts and desires and follow the commandments put forth by God, we often get our prayers answered. For it is written; The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16) So, when you speak, be careful of the words you use, and keep them soft and sweet. For we are to always encourage one another and build each other up. Most of all, always think before you speak so that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. (1 Thessalonians 5:11) (Psalms 19:14)
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Obs erver
Hoppers, Old Road Bling, Benn dominate Post crumble in Independence races Premier Division By Neto Baptiste
Sugar Ridge SAP remained the lone unbeaten team in ABFA Premier Division as Bargain Motors Grenades and All Saints United earned new names as “Giant Killers,” following victories over front-runners Greenbay Hoppers and defending champions LIME Old Road at Antigua Recreation Grounds on Sunday. Hoppers, who donned new red and white outfits displaying the logos of fresh sponsors, Cool & Smooth and Argos Cement, were out-witted, out-hustled and out-played by newcomers Bargain Motors Grenades who convincingly inflicted a 4-1 thrashing on the Greenbay men in the feature contest of a triple-header. The motivated Grenades outfit had a hattrick from striker Rakeem Henry who scored in minutes 19, 31 and 75, while Damian Hardwood scored in the 65th. Henry hit home from close range in the early stages of the game to put Grenades ahead before he pounced on a loose ball just in front of goal after the Hoppers custodian, Omarie “Spence” Joseph, had managed to divert a low shot away from goal but into the path of the advancing striker. The Greenbay men should have pulled a goal back in the latter stages of the first half, but captain Tony Thomas placed his low penalty attempt onto the left upright and could not bury the rebound before he was robbed of the ball by alert defenders. Grenades continued to
dominate the match in the second half and found a third goal in minute 65 via Hardwood’s strike before Henry completed his hat-trick with a bending free-kick that beat the diving Joseph from outside the 18 yards box. Hoppers’ lone strike came from national midfielder Tamarley “Ziggy” Thomas who scored from a free kick in added time. The victory lifts Grenades to 10 points and fifth in the 10-team standings while Hoppers, who remain at the top of the standings despite the loss, are on 18 points after seven matches. In Sunday’s opening fixture, a brace from Jahred Williams led All Saints United past defending champions LIME Old Road, 2-1. Williams netted in minutes 65 and 77 after Old Road had taken the lead via a 59th minute conversion by forward Elvis “Chung” Thomas. All Saints moved on to seven points after six matches in the number seven position, while Old Road hold onto their third place position with 11 points after the same number of outings. In the day’s opening fixture, however, former champions Bassa beat Sani Pro Fort Road, 4-1, as they won only their second match in seven appearances. Bassa had goals coming from Javaughn Williams, Dashawn Browne, Romario Braithwaite and Jamie “Taliban Thomas, while Alren Lewis scored the lone goal for Fort Road. Bassa jumped into the number six position with seven points as Fort Road remain on six points after six matches.
Bling, running out of the Devil’s Disciples Stables, and Benn, from the Calibi Stable, are the top local half-bred and thoroughbred, respectively, in Antigua. Bling beat the field in the Cool & Smooth Half Bred Classic when he ran 1:24.68 to beat Fresh Milk and Better Moment into positions two and three, respectively. Jeff Jacobs successfully jockeyed the horse over the 6.5-furlong event, one of two feature races during Sunday’s Post Independence Race Meet put on by Antigua Turf Club. Benn, also jockeyed by Jacobs, took the Top Ranking Local Thoroughbred Classic over 5.5-furlongs ahead of Nuff Respect and jockey Julian Walters who finished second. IFF and Mr Audacious placed third and fourth, respectively. President of the turf club, Neil Cochrane, congratulated Sunday’s winners and hopes the momentum gathered during the meet will carry into the organisation’s next event. “I want to big up all the winners from (Sunday’s) races and in particular, like I said, the two feature races the first one, the Top Ranking Local Thoroughbred Classic was won by Benn from the Calibi Stables owned by Mr Jace Barnes and trained by Devon O’Garro and the horse was ridden by Jeff Jacobs,” he said. “And then in the second
feature race, which was the final race of the day, the Cool & Smooth Half Bred Classic was won by Bling, defeating Fresh Milk into second position. Bling is from the Devil’s Disciples Stables and trained by Norman ‘Roco’ Dyett and he was also ridden by Jeff Jacobs.” Cochrane, who also launched Finish Line, an all-inclusive party area at Cassada Gardens Race Track, said that although the next meet will definitely happen in December, clarification on the exact date would be given shortly. “For the next race meet, we believe we should have a nice turnout in general; not just at the Finish Line, but in general. So we are looking forward to that. We have it scheduled for the weekend of the 8th and the 9th of December but we actually just have the 8th on there,” the turf boss said. “So we will see if that’s the date we will maintain or if it will be on the actual holiday on the 9th of December. We will advise the public if any change to the 8th is made.” In the other races on Sunday, God’s Grace beat the field in the A1 & Lower, seven-furlong event in 1:32.15, while Benna Gyal snatched the top spot in the C1 & Lower 6.5-furlong race. The E3 & Lower 5.5-furlong race was taken by Seal in 1:14, while Smokey galloped home ahead of the competition in the G1 4.5furlong race. (Neto Baptiste)
For updates during the day, go to www.antiguaobserver.com
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Tue sda y Nov em ber 19 , 2 01 3 TH E D AI L Y
Obs erv er
27th annual ABSF Open Water championships set for Sunday Antigua & Barbuda Swimming Federation will be hosting its 27th Annual LIME Open Water National Swimming Championships at Fort James Beach on Sunday, November 24. For the first time, the
federation will be hosting an event covering distances of 1.4 kilometres, 2.6 km and 5 km. The competition, which commences at 11:30 am, is open to all swim clubs as well as the general public of
Antigua & Barbuda. All interested parties may email carl@absf.ag or contact 783-6163 for details regarding registration. Registration forms must be returned on or before Wednesday, November 20.
The organising committee would like to thank its title sponsor LIME as well as Oasis Water, Observer Media and the Ministry of Sports for their kind contribution toward this effort.
ABFA Premier Division standings as of November 17, 2013 Teams Hoppers SAP Old Road Parham Grenades Bassa All Saints United Fort Road Willikies Potters Tigers
GP 07 06 06 07 05 07 06 06 06 06
GW 06 05 03 03 03 02 02 02 01 00
GD 00 01 02 01 01 01 01 00 01 00
GL 01 00 01 03 01 04 03 04 04 06
GF 19 16 10 13 10 12 05 08 07 05
GA 06 04 07 09 06 16 13 18 11 15
D 13 12 03 04 04 -4 -8 -10 -4 -10
Points 18 16 11 10 10 07 07 06 04 00
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T ue sda y N ove mb er 1 9, 20 13 TH E D AI L Y
Obs erver
Windies stick with Bolt fears WADA’s claim same Test squad could cost him millions MUMBAI, India - West on Monday Indies announced a 15-man squad to play a series of three Tests in New Zealand next month with no changes following their two humiliating defeats to India this month. Selectors have stuck with the same side that lost to India in back-to-back Tests inside three days by an innings and 51 runs and an innings and 126 runs. The poor performances in India have sparked a fresh call from former Windies fast bowler Michael Holding for a change in the captaincy as well as calls in some quarters for a shakeup in the squad including the inclusion of mystery spinner Sunil Narine. Darren Sammy, who scored 25 runs over four innings and bowled 21 wicket-less overs in the series, continues to captain the side. “He should not be in the team. If Darren Sammy is going to be captaining the West Indies team or playing for West Indies, he should
be playing in the shorter forms of the game. Fifty overs, 20 overs, that’s fine. The type of slogging that he tries in 50 and 20 overs, he tries the same in Test matches which don’t work,” said Holding in an interview with ESPN Cricinfo. “He bats the same way every time he goes out to bat. His bowling is mediocre. If you are going to have Darren Sammy as an all-rounder, he has got to take more wickets than he is taking and he also has to be making more runs than he is making.” Only two West Indian batsmen managed to aggregate more than 100 runs in the series, and the only bowler who had success was off-spinner Shane Shillingford with 11 wickets. No other West Indies bowler picked up more than two wickets. The first Test against New Zealand starts on December 3 in Dunedin. Currently at No 6 in the Test rankings, Windies will slip one rung lower should they lose 2-0 or worse. (CMC)
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MONTE CARLO, Monaco - Sprint icon Usain Bolt fears he will lose millions of dollars in potential sponsorship as a result of suggestions that he could be barred from competing at the Rio Olympics in 2016. The claim has come from the World AntiDoping Agency (WADA) as it carried out a probe into the country’s drug testing programme for athletes. Bolt, who was for the fifth time named the World Athlete of the Year on Saturday, said he is bothered by the threat to his ability to earn money from the sport. “It’s really costing me money now, and I’m not too happy about that,” Bolt said. “Track and field is my job. That’s the first thing. I know we’ve been going through a lot when it comes to drug-testing, WADA and the IAAF. There’s been a lot going on.” WADA’s probe into Jamaica’s drug testing programme took place after a number of high profile Jamaican athletes tested positive for banned sub-
stances. WADA had warned that athletes from Jamaica - like Bolt - could be prevented from competing in Rio, if Jamaican authorities did not address their concerns. “This actually caused a lot of problems for me and my management. A sponsor came up to us and said ‘we’d like to sponsor you’. They then used an agency that does background checks to figure out if it’s viable (to sponsor) and it came back that WADA had said that I would not be eligible to run at the next Olympics,” said Bolt. Bolt’s countrywoman, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce who was also awarded female athlete of the year over the weekend, threatened that she was prepared to strike if more support was not forthcoming from Jamaican authorities on WADA’s position. However, the legendary Jamaican sprinter is not prepared to walk the picket line with Fraser-Pryce. “Shelly, you’re on your own with that. It’s hard for me to strike because it’s my job,” said Bolt. (CMC)
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SPORTS
Tu es da y N ove m b er 1 9, 20 13
Simon Dominates OECS Meet By Neto Baptiste
National cyclist Andre Simon is the new OECS Cycling Champion having been crowned in St Lucia over the weekend. The rider clocked 2:12.14 to edge St Lucian Kurt Maraj who clocked 2:12.15 to finish a close second behind the Antiguan. Justin Hodge (2:12.15.731) of Anguilla finished third, while Tyrone Thomas of Grenada and Cameron Adams of St Vincent were fourth and fifth, respectively. Simon, who returned to Antigua late Sunday evening, said he went into the meet hungry for a victory. “I wanted to win the OECS and end the season on a good note and it’s something good for Antigua and also for the association so that was one of my goals going into the race. A lot of the guys (competitors), I’ve only been meeting some of them for the first time this year. Some of them were at Caribbean Championships but you had a good field where you had some top guys from St Vincent and at least every team had about two or three top guys to look out for,” he said. “We had 10 laps to do. It was a 56-mile race and each lap was nine kilometres. So it was a total of 90 km or 56 miles and from the third lap I made the move to get away. And a guy from Anguilla, he followed me,
and then about five other persons joined us including Tesheed (Gordon) because Jymes gave him the go ahead to go with the group,” Simon added. The athlete, who got his start in triathlon, has his eyes set on a bigger prize, as he anticipates taking next year’s Caribbean Championships. “Next year, it’s supposed to be in Puerto Rico and it’s another flat course. So if all goes well, I am looking to do well at that. I want to get into doing more UCI races. Of course, I want to do some more training on the outside and get the level up once more and once that
happens I can look forward to a good season again next year,” he said. Asked to compare the levels of difficulty between the OECS and Caribbean Championships, Simon admitted that his most recent competition simply could not compare to the challenges faced in the Caribbean event. “Of course, in the Caribbean Championships, you have teams like Guadeloupe, Martinique and Curacao. You have a bigger field, of course, because it is close to 100 riders compared to the OECS that I think had about 30 riders or so,” he said. “But of course, it’s a big-
ger field, a bigger pack; and in a bigger pack you will get speed because you have more guys working and more teams coming forward. So Caribbean Championships was a more difficult race, but I am not going to rule it out to say OECS wasn’t difficult as well. It was a tough race.” The other Antiguans in the race, Tesheed, Jyme Bridges Jr and Omari King, were fifth, sixth and 12th, respectively. Thirty riders took part in the Elite class of the OECS Championships with 26 completing the course and four failing to cross the finish line.
TRICKSTER: Striker Rakeem Henry scores one of his three goals past the diving Omarie “Spence” Joseph in goal for Hoppers during their Premier Division fixture at ARG on Sunday. (Photo by Thaddeus Price) See story on page 21
The Daily Observer is printed and published in Coolidge by Byron Derrick who resides at Hodges Bay. The Editor is Mickel Brann of Jennings. Contact: PO Box 1318, St Johnʼs, Antigua, WI, (268) 480-1750. Newsroom: (268) 460-TIPS(8477) Fax: (268) 480-1757. E-mail: editor@antiguaobserver.com Advertising: adverts@antiguaobserver.com
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