Friday, April 26, 2013
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Do not be too righteous, and do not act too wise . . . Do not be too wicked, and do not be a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:16-17 (NRSV)
Geothermal drilling, hopes for Well #1 Vol. XXVIII No. 13
Week Ending Friday, April 26, 2013
Price $2.00
Howell Bramble has died, a robust defender of media rights and freedoms by Bennette Roach
The family led by older brother Austin Bramble held a Celebration of Life funeral service for Howell Richard Bramble, who died on April 13, 2013. The service was conducted by Seventh Day Adventist Pastor Hastings at the New Carmel SDA Church in Salem. Howell died in Nevis, whichhas been referred to as his adopted home. Howell moved there with his wife Ruby whose family owned properties there, following the onset of the volcanic crisis in 1995. The veteran journalist was born on February 10, 1935. He has been referred to as the 20th century father of journalism in Montserrat, having begun his cont’d. on page 6
Mr. Howell Bramble
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Headlines...
Within hours of speaking to directors at the first geothermal drilling site in Cork Hill came the news that the resource could be close to expectation, or just hope! Roger Almond and George Fie had told The Montserrat Reporteraccompanied by a couple members of CRM (Committee for the Redevelopment of Montserrat) at 7.30 a.m. that in a few more hundred feet they would have reached the end of the Icelandic rig’s drilling capacity, however they were already feeling 300°F temperature and in the process of tests. That was good news and hopeful information. However, this created some nervous concerns that should nothing better was encountered, the process might have to be shelved and a new rig imported. These concerns were immediately conveyed to the Premier who was due to have a meeting with the Public Works cont’d. on page 12
Boston Marathon bomber caught...pg 2
Nadia Browne wins ECCU contest...pg 6
Tribute to Mr. Howell Bramble...pg 3
Kids Korner...pg 8
April is Child Abuse Month...pg 5
Chris Gayle scores fastest century...pg 10
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WITH LOW INTEREST RATES Enquire about interest rates from our Loans Department.
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Friday, April 26, 2013
US officials have brought charges against Boston Marathon bombing suspect DzohkharTsarnaev while he lay in his hospital bed, a federal court official said. “There has been a sealed complaint filed,” said Gary Wente, circuit executive for the US Courts for the First Circuit, who said that a magistrate judge was present when Tsarnaevwas charged at his bed in Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital on Monday. He was charged with using a weapon of mass destruction and one count of malicious destruction of property resulting in death. Officials say Tsarnaev and his older brother and suspected co-conspirator, TamerlanTsarnaev, set off the twin explosions at the marathon one week ago, killing three people and injuring more than 180 others. “We got him!” That was heard on the streets of Boston Friday night as police captured the second suspect in the Boston marathon bombings. The mayor was heard congratulating police over their two-way radios. And the tension that gripped Boston since Monday’s blasts changed to celebration.
Jubilation erupted in the streets of Watertown, Massachusetts. Suspect number 2 in the marathon bombings rode inside this ambulance, injured, on the way to the hospital and jail. “When I saw the guy’s face in the ambulance, I thought, ‘They got him alive.’ That’s really important,” said Anthony Pelton, a Watertown taxidriver. Police found 19-year-
Bombing suspect, 19 year old DzohkharTsarnaev. Handcuffed after being captured Dzohkhar and his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev
Boston Marathon bomber caught, suspect charged
old DzhokharTsarnaev inside a boat in the backyard of a house, not too far from where he lived. The capture brings to an end five unsettling days since the double bombing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Three people were killed and more than 170 injured. Bryan Kennedy, a Watertown resident, heard the final gunshots when he was walking nearby. “It rattles you. It definitely makes you put your head on a swivel and look around and see everything around you,” he said. Suspect number 1, TamerlanTsarnaevwas killed during a gunbattle with police Thursday night in the same town. But the younger Tsarnaev escaped. Thousands of police began a massive manhunt, blocking streets in the neighborhood and ordering residents to stay in their homes. The two brothers are ethnic Chechens who have lived legally in the United States for about 10 years. According to the Federal Bureau
of Investigation, two years ago a foreign government requested information on TamerlanTsarnaev based on information he was a follower of radical Islam. The FBI found no evidence of terrorist activity at that time. “Whatever they thought they could ultimately achieve, they’ve already failed,” said President Obama spoke from the White House, after a long day monitoring developments in Boston. “It’s been a rough week. What happened on Monday is going to change that day forever for all of us,” said Watertown resident Amy Wrynn. Police say DzhokharTsarnaev was on a cell phone during the first bombing. Then he left a backpack at the site of the second bombing, which occurred just seconds later. He is seen on this surveillance video walking through the crowds behind his brother. The massive manhunt brought Boston and surrounding areas to a standstill Thursday and Friday. Related: http://www. voanews.com/content/ boston-bombing-sparks-
surveillance-cameradebate/1648071.htmlThe Leal family huddled inside their Watertown home. “We knew that he was lose and we knew it wasn’t safe because he had bombs,” recalled 8-year-old Ashley Leal.Bedtime was interrupted when they heard the news and ran outside.Boston’s five-day nightmare is over. As one resident said, they can finally come out of their houses and feel safe.
Friday, April 26, 2013
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Tribute - the professional life of Howell R. Bramble
Long before he became ill, and his passing on April 13, 2013, Howell Bramble had been an outspoken advocate for public causes in a distinguished Montserrat tradition—the writing, editing and publishing of newspapers. Howell returned from England, where he studied Journalism, in the early 1960s. He soon became editor of the Montserrat Mirror, news and sportscaster at Radio Montserrat, sportscaster at Radio Antilles, and stringer for several international news organizations. Eventually, he would start his own newspaper, The Montserrat Times. He remained the dean of Montserrat Journalism for most of the rest of the 20th Century, helping to shape both public thinking and public policy. Howell was the son of Montserrat’s first and perhaps greatest Chief Minister, Willie Bramble, and the brother of the second Chief Minister, Austin Bramble. He married Ruby Wade, scion of one of the iconic families of Montserrat. She represented The Northern Constituency and became a member of Montserrat’s parliament. Howell’s legislative connections added to his journalistic energy and his political passion gave him a powerful voice that has helped influence Montserrat and the Leeward Islands’ character and culture. After the volcanic eruptions in Montserrat, he moved to St. Kitts/Nevis, where his wife already owned several
properties. He published his newspaper there and treated his new home with some of his aggressive journalism. For most of this careerhe had strong connections within governments but no party could ever take him for granted. He was always speaking up for political morality and ready to challenge injustice wherever he saw it. According to our very own historian Dr. Howard Fergus, Montserrat’s first known indigenous newspaper was the Jack Spaniard, published by Richard Piper in the latter part of the 19th Century. It was reputed to be a ‘stinging’ paper, fearlessly reporting on the issues of the day, championing the causes of the common person. The Montserrat Herald, published by James T. Allen (the legendary Budduh Allen) and James R. Peters, followed the Jack Spaniard in the 1890s. Though considered to be less radical than the Jack Spaniard, the Herald likewise held forth on the issues of the day and championed the advancement of workers. Howell is the descendent of Budduh Allen, one of the Herald’s editors/publishers. He was destined to be a voice of the people for the people. When the time came in the middle of the 20th Century, Howell picked up the newspaper/journalism mantle, held it high and carried it proudly. The three signatories of this brief tribute to a distinguished brother, Jeddy Fen-
ton and David Edgecombe and Bennette Roach have all editors of the Montserrat Reporter, which followed the Montserrat Times in 1984. Fenton went on to publish and edit the Montserrat News. I, Bennette am still the editor/publisher of The Reporter, while Edgecombe taught journalism and continues to teach playwriting and public speaking at the University of the Virgin Islands. We are all proud to have worked with and, at times, fought with Howell Bramble. He was a worthy adversary. More importantly, we recognize and applaud the huge contribution he made to the long tradition of Montserrat newspapers and journalism. He kept alive and advanced the idea that the Montserrat people must have a fearless voice on issues of national import. For this we must always remember him fondly.
By Bennette Roach For myself I wish to add that I’ve been reminded that I was young when at the timeIthought little of my connection to Howell and his work. Although I later contributed to his work, and even having done some studies in the discipline, never saw this as something I would do full time in the future, as much as this was prophesied to me while I was attending school. Much changed, Howell stopped publishing got into the commercial printing, a field he had some un-
derstanding as this comes natural if you are a publisher. Fast forward, he continued his journalism through his publication Leeward Times out of St. Kitts/Nevis, PrimeMinister Douglas gives testament to that. He then constantly contributed also to writing about Montserrat and to the people of Montserrat especially on matters of political morality, wanting Montserrat to always strive for independence. It was then also I found myself in the very midst of it all. I had to study who he was and what he stood for. Like others will say today and for very long time, I too recognized his writing as being as good as or better than many. It is difficult today to
listen or read any bit of journalism and not sense some form of partiality. Howell’s partialism was to Montserrat and if I were ever to be compared, it is for that I would like to be. Much will be said in other tributes to which I concur, but I will eternalise them by publishing them. He called for Montserratians to remain together: Indeed, the special circumstances of Montserrat call for inclusiveness, which for electoral purposes would include the diaspora, or some of them. “The revolution in communications technology has shrunken our planet giving persons residing in the United Kingdom, North America and several other parts of the world unbroken connections with their home-
land,” he wrote, in what was to be his unexpected lastcontribution to TMR. Thus his last public call, ‘Rally to the cause, push the consultation, join the national conversation.” “Good journalists” are a special breed of people. As I make this tribute, I believe the legacy Howell Bramble leaves, is a call to people, politicians, leaders, to heed more what they(journalists) write and say, however they say it.Because when they do, like Howell did, while it is their heart and passion they also reflect the passion and feelings of many, often the majority. May his memory and good works live with us and may he rest in eternal peace.
‘Under the Mango Tree’ - Background of a memorable show Under the Mango Tree was performed by children on March 16, 2013 as part of the St. Patrick’s week of celebrations. The show was staged late afternoon in a double header at the old Salem primary school and has been talked about ever since. Sian Wynne provides below a run-down of the organisers and the show highlighting the
children as the stars. In January of this year Alys Jenkins and Rebecca Chalmers decided to combine their skills in both drama and music to work with a group of the island’s children ages 7 – 11. During the eight weeks of workshops they created a 45 minute musical play featuring both original music composed by the group and
adaptations of existing recognisable local music. Workshops were held at the Hilltop Coffee House and Family Centre on Saturday afternoons and were attended by 30 children. After eight weeks of workshops and rehearsals, the final production was performed at the old Salem School on Saturcont’d. on page 9
ORGANISATION OF EASTERN CARIBBEAN STATES Consultancy Services The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Secretariat with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking to procure consultancy services for the “Development of Promotional Print and Broadcast Material for Radio and Television” The Secretariat thus wishes to invite suitable individuals or firms to indicate their interest in providing the required services. Interested applicants are directed to obtain further details from the OECS website www.oecs.org or the following URL address: www.caricom.org ; www.eccaa.aero
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Friday, April 26, 2013
Letters/Opinion
EDITORIAL
Premier returns from Dubai, Brussels and UK upbeat On Friday last week the reported that as a result of his trip to Dubai where he met with potential investors in the Little Bay Development and Carrs Bay port plans in Montserrat. He said the trip was a follow-up to possible investor interest, specifically in the hotel and villa development in Little Bay. He reported to the media at that press conference following which he agreed to hold another the following Wednesday, April 24, that he came back with a letter of intent for a 150 room-hotel in Little Bay and 20 luxury villas on Potato Hill. MDC board has agreed letter of intent. He said that already the wholly owned by government Montserrat Development Corporation (MDC) board has already agreed the letter of intent and a letter should be on its way to the company in Dubai, Golf Classic. The Premier said that the letter had couple of elements strictly for government which will require cabinet decisions, and which would be dealt with in time. He refused to give any details. He also revealed that he held preliminary discussions with the Taiwanese while in the UK where he went to after he had stopped off in Brussels. They were going to follow by writing their interests to Government. He also said that he had discussions with DFID on all of the matters he had dealt with while on that side of the world. In Brussels, he had updated as he promised, the EU on the matters relating to the balance funding under EDF 9. He was seeking the funds which will disappear if certain matters such as signing contracts for certain preparatory works on the port are not completed by June 30 this year. He made specific reference to the breaking away of the bluff known as Gun Hill for which tenders should be out by the end of this month. There has been much expenditure being carried out on what is claimed to be preparation for the port development, but with the plans supposedly nearing completion there is much discussion as to whether the monies are being spent to any real development plan other than to impress the EDF funders. We were surprised to learn that there were no discussions in support of the need for a new airport in Montserrat, which most thought was an absolute necessity notwithstanding the sounds of the acquisition of a purpose built ferry. The Governor had made the statement that there was no plan on the horizon for either an extension of the present airport or the building of a new one. Although there was no public comment from the Premier on that statement, he reportedly said that the Governor was not speaking for the government. Even if he said that, the Governor was quoting from the strategy development plan that we hear so much about, so he could not have been speaking out of turn. And as a matter of fact the Premier has now confirmed that Montserrat’s future travel for a long time will be air service as it is with a ferry which cannot guarantee regular travel between the Islands and Montserrat. What he did say on Friday, is that the plans to make twin otter services to Montserrat more available is very much in the access plan. And in case those who believed that such a plan would damper the planned up scaled tourism business, the Premier informed that the hotel developers would actually prefer that Montserrat was not that easily accessible as a means to keeping the uniqueness of Montserrat. They would include helicopter services as a preferred option. “They preferred Montserrat to be a unique destination where people would want to pay money to come to,” the Premier said.
The Montserrat Reporter Published by: Montserrat Printing & Publishing, Inc. - Editor: Bennette Roach Office: Davy Hill, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 306, Davy Hill, Montserrat, W.I. Typeset and Printed by Montserrat Printing & Publishing, Inc. - monp_p@candw.ms. Tel. (664) 491-4715 Fax: (664) 491-2430 E-mail: editor@themontserratreporter.com or monrep@candw.ms - Web Site: http://www.themontserratreporter.com
Ex-FIFA VP Jack Warner resigns as Trinidad minister amid fraud inquiry Former FIFA vice president Jack Warner has resigned as Trinidad and Tobago’s national security minister, two days after an investigation accused him of “fraudulent” management of the CONCACAF soccer confederation. Mr. Warner stepped down as CONCACAF president in 2011 after a “cash-for-votes” scandal. He was accused on Friday at a congress of soccer officials in Panama of tricking the body that represents soccer in North America, Central America and the Caribbean out of ownership of the $26m Centre of Excellence in Port of Spain. He is also facing an FBI probe over a separate
issue. “I have today accepted the offer of resignation of the Minister of National Security, Mr. Jack Warner from the Cabinet of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,” Prime Minister KamlaPersad-Bissessar said in a statement. Pressure on Mr. Warner to resign built up over the weekend after one of the major partners in Trinidad’s four-member party coalition government called for Warner’s firing. The prime minister, who returned to Trinidad on Saturday night from visits to the United States and Canada, made the announcement after summoning her Cabinet to
a meeting at her private residence on Sunday. Mr. Warner left the meeting without speaking to reporters. CONCACAF’s congress in Panama was presented with a detailed report into allegations of financial mismanagement by Warner and ex-general secretary Chuck Blazer, based on documents and interviews with 38 people. “I have recounted a sad and sorry tale in the life of CONCACAF, a tale of abuse of position and power, by persons who assisted in bringing the organisation to profitability, but who enriched themselves at the expense of cont’d. on page 10
Our Scripture Verse Today Winning Approval
Do not be too righteous, and do not act too wise . . . Do not be too wicked, and do not be a fool. - Ecclesiastes 7:16-17 (NRSV) When we were adolescents, my brother and I strove fiercely to win our dad’s approval. This created a pattern of competition that continues to interfere with our relationship years later. During a recent wilderness hike, my brother took the lead. The trail wasn’t especially difficult, and he set a frantic pace. Before long, however, he was gasping and suffering muscle cramps. We made it back safely, but that competitiveness made it difficult for us to enjoy our time together. As a young Christian, I strove
fiercely to win God’s approval as well. I tried to be a perfect Christian: I tried to pray longer, I read the Bible more diligently, and I behaved more piously than everyone else. That attitude, however, only alienated those around me. When I read Ecclesiastes 7:15-20, I was appalled. How could someone be too righteous? And how could the writer suggest that we tolerate evil? Finally, I realized that, try as I might, I can never be perfect. I can live as pure and holy a life as possible and avoid pretension of righteousness, but I don’t have to win God’s approval. It’s free and unconditional. I need only to accept it.
Friday, April 26, 2013
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The month of April is observed as Child Abuse Prention Month
April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month. It’s a great opportunity for us to look at what we are doing and acknowledge our challenges here. In this stressful economy it is important to recognize that the national increase in child maltreatment paired with budget cuts across the board are a dangerous combination for our children. Because of this, our most vulnerable population stands at greater risk than ever. Montserrat has for several years now shown interest in the protection of children from abuse, but the response to Child Abuse and Neglectis still critical. Responding to child abuse and neglect involves protecting children from harm and supporting families to reduce the risk of future harm to children. There is the need for reports from professionals and concerned citizens to be delivered to child protective services staff alerting them to concerns about a child’s welfare. There should be
an investigation to determine if a child has been or is at risk of being harmed. Serious involvement should see assessment of the child’s and family’s needs or engage in other interventions to support the family’s efforts to provide a safe, nurturing environment for their children. CPS professionals may work with law enforcement, courts, other professionals, and community members to protect children and support families. A government minister in one of the British Overseas Dependent Territories (BODT) writes: “Children are perhaps the most vulnerable group among us. They should not be subjected to hurt, pain, fear and confusion. In most cases, they suffer in silence as they are afraid to voice their hurt and thoughts, and are help-
less in explaining their situation as well as bringing their plight to persons who can assist them. Children who experience abuse fear that if they were to speak out, they would be further abused, ridiculed, misjudged and reprimanded. We, as a community, have a duty towards protecting our children. We must be their voice and champion their cause. We have to ensure that they are protected from hurt, pain, embarrassment and stigmatization. Children must feel safe, secure and loved. Let us begin by listening to our children. Pay attention to their needs, observe their actions, give voice to their fears and hurts and sensitize as many persons as we can to assist in this task. It may seem a great task, but if we all do our little part we will succeed in eradicating child abuse.” We must be vigilant as a society to stop child abuse. Know the facts, learn the signs, and report all forms of suspected child abuse whether that abuse is physical, emotional or sexual. A vulnerable child in the community is depending on your assistance.
Dr. Daniel Davis speaks on Dementia, extension Alzheimer’s
Dr. Davis gives presentation on Dementia
A report out of the USA states, “One in eight older Americans has Alzheimer’s “disease. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States of America. Over 15 million Americans provide unpaid care for a person with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Payments for cares are estimated to be $200 billion in 2012.” Dr. Daniel Davis is the son of Governor and Mrs. Adrian Davis. Governor introduced him at a small forum at Government House on March 28, 2013 where Mrs. Davis invited people to become members of Friends of Glendon Hospital. Dr. Davis said of himself, “I am actually training in both clinical medicine and in research elements, and my core direction in clinical practice and in research is on memory problems in aging,” introducing his talk on ‘dementia.’ The doctor spoke on the topic dementia, which is described as, “a loss of brain function that occurs with certain diseases. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is one form of dementia that gradually gets worse over time. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior.” In introducing this topic
which is said to be the sixth young to work at not getting eases like Alzheimer’s disease leading cause of death in the the dreaded disease dementia/ and vascular dementia...... but USA and forms part of diseas- Alzheimer. these things can intermix and es falling within the 10 leading But actually not every- the differences between these causes of death in the world, thing gets worst in aging and subtypes is that it has slightly Dr. Davis told his audience, “I so there is a general slowing different presentations at want to talk about four main but something’s get better in the beginning but if you fastthings, - what is Dementia, fact we find that also in older forward five or six or seven who gets dementia, what can people’s judgment becomes or eight, ten years they all you do about dementia, and usually allot better and it may pretty much look very similar what causes dementia…” be that people are exercising when different areas of the He said: “…it is a brain their judgment faculties a bit brain become progressively disease, not just normal aging more to compensate for the more impaired so that’s what that causes problems in more fact that they’re not so quick is dementia. than one area of brain function in other fields but it’s not all We will present the other to an extent that it is so se- dim and Dismal in terms of areas of Dr. Davis’ discussion vere that you can’t function in outlook. on the topic in future issues. normal life without assistance So the key things in terms However, readers and interfrom somebody else.” The Dr. of what is dementia is that it’s ested persons on the topic, cautioned, “.... people don’t a brain function with multiple may visit www.themontserjust as I said wake up with problems severe enough to ratreporter.com and listen to, dementia…” impact in your general day to or watch excerpted video on Dementia in younger day functions, it includes dis- the presentation. people is Captive audience at Government House - presentation on dementia described as below age 65 while some forms of dementia can begin at age 45. One thing derived from the questions and answers that followed was that it would never be too
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Friday, April 26, 2013
Many in the community turn out to say final farewell to a journalist pioneer cont’d. from page 1
esteemed career in in the mid-60s in Montserrat. ZJB Radio (Radio Montserrat where over 40 years ago Howell was the first news editor, said of him, “…Pioneer journalists who have paved the way for many others, Bramble was an example of conscientious and dedicated commitment to the profession.” Early brief tributes were paid to the journalist, by some such as Bennette Roach, Rose Willock, Keith ‘Stone’ Greaves in telephone interviews by the radio station. Much more is described in the coming weeks, as The Montserrat Reporter will publish tributes that have coming in memory of the deceased. This will be done in honour and in memory of one who is and will be remembered by many for his esteemed and true practice of journalism. The New Carmel church was packed with family, friends, associates for the funeral service which was held on Sunday, April 21, 2013. There, they listened and brought prayers, tributes and blessings to all with a homily from the pastor, “one step between life and death”.
Howell who was the youngest son of his deceased parents, William H. Bramble, Montserrat’s first Chief Minister and his wife Ann Alberta, leaves to mourn, his wife Ruby Wade-Bramble, his sons, Howell O’Garro, Philmore Parris and Nigel Bernard; a step daughter, Dr. Cheryl D. Wade; granddaughter Amarah Parris; siblings, P Austin and his wife Marie, Olga Edwards; sisters in law, nieces and nephews, a step granddaughter, and a host of cousins, grand nieces, grand nephews and other extended family. The tributes and eulogy, which we will publish beginning in this issue, will speak volumes of the man whose life was celebrated at his funeral service.
top left: the late Mr. Howell Bramble; top right: funeral service for Mr. Bramble middle right: SDA choir; far right: William Bramble delivers the Eulogy; right: Pastor Williams of Nevis
Lookout for the tributes and learn about the man who kept at his journalism even after he retired, writing about his beloved Montserrat.
Friday, April 26, 2013
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MSS Nadia Browne receives 1st place prize in ECCU contest The Head of the Local Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Agency Office, Mrs. Claudette Weeks visited the Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) at the school’s morning assembly on Monday, April 22, 2013. The occasion was to present a winning prize and certificate to Miss Nadia Browne and a certificate and commendable prize to Miss Sharese Allen. In addressing the students she encouraged residents and in particular students to participate in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union’s (ECCU) activities to enhance their professional skills. At the awards ceremony, before she delivered the certificate and prize to the first place winner of the (ECCU) Business Essay Contest, she told the school gathering and media: “Having great appreciation for innovative ideas is one way for you as young people and nation builders to foster development and growth.Therefore, I encourage you to take on opportunities that will challenge your creativity and develop your skills and talents.In addition to this initiative, the Bank hosts other activities aimed at educating the ECCU public on economic and financial matters and building technical capacity.” Mrs. Weekes added that the ECCU hosts several competitions and activities throughout the year to educate the public in member states on economic and financial matters and other important issues. Nadia in response after receiving the award spoke to her fellow students. “I’d like to thank the ECCU and Central Bank for allowing me the opportunity to enter this competition and I’d like to encourage all of you top participate in the future.” She thanked Ms. Riley and Mrs. Wilson,“and everybody else who helped me in the competition in any way
Nadia Browne receives certificate from Mrs. Claudette Weekes, Head of the Local Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Agency Office
and congratulation to Sharese, again.” Mean Sharese who also received a certificate and a small cash prize, said, “Firstly I’ll like to thank the almighty God for giving me this business idea; my parents ....my father Mr. David Gerald for their generous support, the
ECCB for giving me this opportunity to enter into this competition,” adding her own encouragement,“and I’m encouraging everyone to enter when you have these competition cause you never know you might just be the winner.” She too had special thanks for Ms. Cheslyn Riley
and Ms. Nickeza Wilson. Meanwhile, the MSS Principal Cherlyn Hogan spoke as she implored the students to seize every opportunity that comes their way. “We’re so very proud of Nadia and Sharese for actually taking the opportunity, taking the time, setting the challenge to do their
business initiatives and they were successful. We know that all of the students at MSS can participate and do well so in every opportunity that comes our way,” she said “Students,” she continued,“we will participate!You never know, there may be $3000.00 wait-
ing for you.” $3,000 was the first place cash prize. The students body representatives provided a short skit, interrupted by a brief shower of rain, while they led the students in song after brief prayers and scripture reading at the beginning of the assembly.
Sharese Allen receives certificate from Mrs. Claudette Weekes, Head of the Local Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Agency Office
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Friday, April 26, 2013
Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. This is the term for work, work and more work. Put in the time it will benefit you in the long run. I know you have dreams but remember, dreams dont work unless you do. So set your target and keep trying to reach it. Read a book as you go along life’s road. Continued from last week. Torian’s favourite kidney tree was in the middle of the garden. It was the oldest and biggest one with fat kidneys that glistened like sapphires, high up the centre, out of reach.
Mango Belly by Tammi Browne-Bannister
There was no picker for him to pull the fruit down but the empty bath was lying upside down in front of him. An army of ants marched up the side of the tree where Torian wanted to go. He ground them into the trunk, swiping away with his shirttail shielding his hand. He used the bath to boost himself. He climbed until he reached the centre where the best mangoes were. From there he could see his classmates hustling off to school.
“Yes sir.” Torian dried his eyes. “What should we do about all that mess in the garden?” Mrs. Joyce said. Torian bowed his head in thought. Giving myself a punishment is better than having one given to me. “I’ll clean it up.” He looked up at her.
Torian plucked a kidney from its stem and ate it right away. The juices stained his mouth and he wiped them off with the back of his hands. He slid his tongue along the sides of his arms at the golden sweetness creeping down them and stuffed his sticky palms into his mouth.
“Good.” Mrs. Joyce looked down. “By the way, you made Miss Matthew late for school this morning. She was so frightened, seeing you up the tree that she never left home until you came back down. Thank God you break out with mango boils rather than a broken neck.”
Torian picked mango after mango and dropped them on the grass below. He climbed down, filled the bath and his knapsack, sat under the tree and sucked, picked, slurped and licked. He spat the skins from his mouth and tossed the seeds all about.
***
The worried woman from next door called at the gate but was chased away by the boy’s ferocious dog. She went back home to keep an eye on Torian.
“Can’t trust that boy with anything!” Mrs. Joyce returned later that afternoon to see her unpadded front gate. “Look here!” Mr. Joyce showed her the gaping front door, too. Mrs. Joyce clenched her teeth. She had a feeling, turned around and gazed into the orchard. Torian was still in pyjamas, lying on the knapsack of sweaty mangoes propped up under his head like a pillow. Mr. Joyce shook him but Torian didn’t stir. “Just pick him up for me, please,” Mrs. Joyce sighed. Mr. Joyce took Torian into the house then returned.
Pre-School Corner
Hello to you my preschool friends. This week we will DRAW A SCHOOL HOUSE. I hope you enjoy drawing.
“I can’t believe he stayed home for this?” Mrs. Joyce kicked the bath of mangoes and grabbed the knapsack from the ground. “Boys will be boys.” Mr. Joyce shrugged. Mrs. Joyce threw the sack at him. “Give those to the pigs.”
*** “How did I get here?” Torian jumped out of bed. When he looked in the mirror, he saw yellow skin boils. “Daddy, daddy!” He ran downstairs in his dirty nightclothes.
“I’m sorry Miss Matthew.” Torian sniffed. “I’m sure you’ve learned a valid lesson,” his teacher said. Torian nodded. He gave Miss Matthew a paper bag filled with bellyfuls.
Her warm smile made him awkward.
“Why did this happen to me?” Torian groaned. “You know why. Drink this now!” She slammed a large tea mug with a mixture of white head and inflammation
Kids write your stories, tell us about yourselves. Email or post - Write to Aunty Lyka, at P.O. Box 306, Davy Hill, or send email to: kidstime@themontserratreporter.com
***
“These things itch like pepper.”
“I warned you about mangoes, remember?” Mrs. Joyce didn’t look round at Torian but spoke over her shoulders. “Sit at the table. I’ll steep some bitters to dry out those boils and help you get over the colic.”
Where we will have fun
Patrice grinned when she saw his damp eyelashes. “Don’t feel sorry when he sets up his face like rain.” Torian bowed his head, feeling a sinking sensation in the pit of his stomach. He buried his eyes into the concrete sidewalk, avoiding the piercing gazes.
“Thank you, Torian. They’re my favourite.”
When he saw the ugly boils, he didn’t go anywhere near his son.
In Your Own Korner.
Monday morning Torian walked to school with his books in his bag, pulling a milk box filled with mangoes. No one offered to help. Patrice and Nigel laughed at the sores on his face, arms and legs. The village was small and gossip travelled fast so they knew what he had done behind his parents’ back. Torian felt a burning in his eyes.
“Boy, what happen to you?” Mr. Joyce was startled.
“Don’t scratch them. Go straight to your mother.” Mr. Joyce said.
See you next week right here
Torian felt green looking at the olive brown liquid. The smell churned his stomach but he had to drink it if he expected to feel better. He gulped the tea, pinching his nose hard with his eyes closed. He banged his fist on the table, struggling to keep the bitterness down. He retched a bit but swallowed hard before his belly erupted all over his mother’s kitchen floor. “I’m sure you’ve learned your lesson,” Mr. Joyce said from the living room.”
The next-door neighbour saw him from her bathroom window. She shook her head and murmured. She called out to him but her voice was too little for Torian to hear. The concerned woman became afraid for him and so phoned next door but received no answer.
***
bush down in front of him.
*** The bell rang for recess. Miss Matthew lifted the milk box onto her desk. “Attention, class,” she said. “We have a thoughtful gift from Torian.” Miss Matthew winked at him. “He has brought mangoes from his parents’ farm and wants to share them with you. Let’s show some appreciation.” Miss Matthew led her students in applause. The children cheered. They all got mangoes but Torian didn’t take any. And as they sucked, picked, slurped and licked, he swallowed large amounts of saliva.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Tu r k s a n d C a i c o s still looking towards independence, says Premier Rufus Ewing TCI SUN News Trinidad - The Turks and Caicos Islands is still considering political independence from Britain, Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing has said. Ewing told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that “independence remains a major issue” three years after Britain suspended the island’s constitution and set up a oneman commission to probe the government of then premier Michael Misick. “I think any right thinking country should have independence as its destination. The time period however is the question. The need for independence must be the goal and so everything you do should be to prepare your people and country for that giant step. There will be a number of factors that will come into play as to whether or not that time should be fast tracked or continue along the pace that you would desire to have or would like to have and that would depend on the ongoing relationship with the United Kingdom government and the people in the territory,” he said. Ewing said that the government “of the day” would also have a role to play and “allowed to do what is right by the people, for the people to improve their standard of living and to prepare us for our plans
for moving towards that step of independence. “If it doesn’t happen, all it does is to make the people even more convinced that independence is our only way out,” said Ewing, who is here attending the 14th annual Caribbean Tourism Organisation organised Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC-14). He told CMC that over the past three years, more citizens have become convinced “that independence is the way to go, more than ever before in the past because of the relationship we have had (with Britain) over the past three years. Ewing, who studied in Barbados and Jamaica and is well known throughout the Eastern Caribbean, said while he would not commit personally to a timeframe” for independence, “what I know we will do is to appoint an independence
TCI Premier, Dr. Rufus Ewing
commission from the House of Assembly to look at timeframes to look at milestones that need to be achieved and to look at referendum settings...”. Ewing, whose government holds a slender one seat majority in Parliament, said there is stability in the country. “The stability is just about there. We have elected a government that we have confidence in from a stand point of investors,” he said, aware that with a one seat majority in the House “if anything happens then we can keep on going back to by elections and by elections and so it may not give the people the level of security they would want”. While he would not comment on the re-arrest of former premier Misick in Brazil and the extradition proceedings that had been started against him by Britain, Ewing told CMC he was still “awaiting” a response to suggestions that Britain was trying to re-colonise its territories in the Caribbean including the Cayman Islands. “Well, I am sure everybody has a reason for doing things and I still awaiting the answer to the question,” he said, adding “I were a conspiracy theorist that would be my theory” as to whether London was using finances to the territories to “keep them in check”.
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of WILSTON EMMANUEL JUNIOR DALEY, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date hereof application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an order that Letters of Administration in the Estate of WILSTON EMMANUEL JUNIOR DALEY late of St. Peter’s, Montserrat who died on the 5th May of 2012 at the Glendon Hospital be granted to MARY VENUS ALBERTHA SHIELL, the mother of the deceased and one of the persons entitled to a share in his estate.
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Under the Mango Tree cont’d. from page 3 day 16th March as part of the St Patrick’s week of celebrations. The play was originally scheduled for one performance on Tuesday 12th at 7pm, but when it was realised that this was the Look Out Sports Day, due to finish at 6pm on the same day, the producers knew it would be too much to expect the children to perform after a day of sports. They also acknowledged that just one show with only 100 seats available would not fulfil demand. As a result of these two factors, the decision was made to move the show to Saturday afternoon, with two performances. On the day, the first show had few available seats left and the second show was sold out! Due to other events on the same day, many people were unable to attend, but since the shows were such a success, word of mouth is now requesting a further performance, which may or may not be possible. The stage at the Salem School was transformed by Peter & Sian Filleul into a real theatrical space, using stage, lighting and sound equipment loaned from the Cultural Centre and curtains from individuals, tied with string on to bamboo poles! The set decoration was made using palm leaves and other vegetation from various sources, pieces of string, staples and sellotape. Costumes were either made on the spot with safety pins or provided by various sources. It is amazing what a bit of imagination and a lot of commitment can produce. Whilst it is possible to put on a show like this for little
money with so many volunteers offering help with transport, set design, stage and wings construction, the reality is that it takes many hours of hard work - by the children and their parents, the producers and volunteers. It is not money that prevents productions like this, but commitment, vison, ideas and manpower. The producers say that all the hard work and hours were worth it when they saw the end result – the joy of the cast and the real appreciation of the audience, including a standing ovation! Many members of the audience said it was one of the best, original, pieces of children’s theatre they had seen anywhere in the world – the humour came through, the acting, the stage presence and of course, the singing and dancing. The basic story told in the play was that of two children exploring the island, discovering the story of the Mermaid of Chance’s Peak and that of the King of Redonda. They travel back in time determined to find the Mermaid of Chances Peak and prove she is real to those who see her as just a fairy tale. Along their journey they meet the Arawaks, Christopher Columbus, African slaves and an Irish girl called Erin (from Montserrat’s Flag!). The do indeed find the Mermaid as well as the Orioles and the fabulous King of Redonda (self prossed King and calypso star!) the story then culminates at Festival 50 where the children see all of the people they have meet along the way. Throughout the story there are many references that only those on island and familiar with Montserrat would under-
stand: the repeated digging up of roads, the unreliable ferry, local venues and events, ZJB announcements, radio jingles and even a reference to one of the popular Calypso songs from Festival 50. The production was very ambitious and right until the final run-through, the producers were not overly confident, but once the first show started, with a real audience and a packed auditorium, the cast simply shone and rose to the occasion. The children were the stars, the grown-ups were just the facilitators. Let’s hope this can be the start of many dramatic productions for the children of the island. It is hoped that a video recording of the play will be made available in the near future for those who missed it, or for those who loved it and want to see it again. Alys Jenkins is from the UK, in Montserrat with her husband, Matthew, who is on a contract with the Government of Montserrat, and their 3 children. She has nearly 20 years experience making theatre with and for children and young people. Rebecca Chalmers has been funded by the Montserrat Foundation in the UK to work in Montserrat for one academic year to teach music of all genres to the children of the island. She is an accomplished musician (flautist & pianist) and a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, UK – which is also where Sir George Martin received his formal music education.
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION IN THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH FERGUS, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice, an application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Letters of Administration in the Estate of ELIZABETH FERGUS who died on the 3rd day of July, 1972 be granted to VERONIS MOLYNEAUX her grandson and one of the persons entitled to share in the estate of the deceased.
ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested therein are requested forthwith to send particulars to me the undersigned.
ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested in the estate are requested to send written particulars thereof to the undersigned within 14 days from the date of this Notice.
FURTHER any person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court whose address is: Office of the Registrar General, Brades, Montserrat, not later than fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice.
ANY person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court not later than 14 days from the date of this Notice.
Dated this 17th day of April, 2013
Dated this 17th day of April, 2013
MARY VENUS ALBERTHA SHIELL Applicant
BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law
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Friday, April 26, 2013
Chris Gayle scores fastest century in cricket history during IPL game The Guardian
Chris Gayle scores the fastest century in the history of professional cricket for the Royal Challengers Bangalore
Winwards beat CCC to win Super 50 Final in style Barbados -- Kenroy Peters and Devon Smith shared the Man-of-the-Match award as they led the Windward Islands to a superb victory over Combined Campuses & Colleges in the Grand Final of the Regional Super 50 on Sunday night. Peters, the experienced left-arm seamer, took three wickets in an early spell which ripped the heart out of the CCC top-order. He ended with a career-best 4-32 as CCC were bowled out for 174 in the 50th over on a good pitch at Kensington Oval. Smith then played some stunning strokes in a match-winning 67 not out with six fours and
Chris Gayle has set a new record for the fastest century in the history of professional cricket with an astonishing ton off 30 balls for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, and then went on to make the highest score ever seen in Twenty20, ending unbeaten with 175 off 66 balls. The West Indies opener battered the Pune Warriors bowling attack with a century that included seven dot balls, four singles, eight fours and 11 sixes for the home side at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore. By the end of his innings he had amassed 17 sixes and 13 fours as Bangalore recorded a total of 263 for five, the highest innings total in a Twenty20 match. Gayle has been having a hit-and-miss IPL in 2013 thus far, with low scores coupled with an 85 off 50 balls and a 92 off 58. But his assault on the Pune bowling attack on Tuesday was in a different category all together, with Gayle’s 17 sixes also a record for a T20 innings. The 30-ball ton beats the previous 34-ball Twenty20 record set by Australia’s Andrew Symonds for Kent against Middlesex in 2004. The record in 50-over cricket is ShahidAfridi’s 37-ball century for Pakistan against Sri Lanka in 1996. The Test record belongs to Gayle’s fellow West Indian Viv Richards, who flayed England for a 56-ball 100 in Antigua in 1986. By the end of the innings, it was hard not to feel sympathy for the bowlers. “Life is all about taking the right decision,” tweeted the India captain, MS Dhoni. “Seeing Gayle bat today I think I took the right decision of being a wicketkeeper.” Darren Sammy, Gayle’s Windiesteam-mate, described the opener’s innings as “a tsunami mixed with a nuclear bomb”. Luke Wright, the England allrounder, escaped with figures of 4-0-26-1, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar was similarly frugal with figures of 4-0-23-0, but the 12 overs of the other five bowlers in the Pune team went for a combined 211. Unsurprisingly Pune struggled in their replay and could reach only 133 for nine in their 20 overs, the 11 batsmen falling 42 runs short of Gayle’s total alone. Gayle completed a fine day’s work by taking two wickets for five runs.
two sixes. He added a century opening stand in 18 overs with Johnson Charles, who made 46 off 45 balls. Windwards sped to 134-1 to win nine wickets under the Duckworth/Lewis Method after the target was adjusted to 134 off 29 overs following a break for rain. Summarised Scores: CCC 174 all out off 49.2 overs (Kyle Corbin 46; Kenroy Peters 4-32, Shane Shillingford 3-29) Windward Islands 134-1 off 22.2 overs (Devon Smith 67 not out, cont’d. from page 4 Johnson Charles 46) Result: Windward Islands won by 9 wickets their very own organisations,” said David Simto win the Clive Lloyd Trophy
Winwards team pose before beating CCC to win for first time in thirteen years
Warner out
Caribbean soccer officials so they would back a bid by Bin Hamman to become FIFA’s president. mons, a former Barbados Mr. Bin Hammam and chief justice, who heads Mr. Warner both have CONCACAF’s Integrity repeatedly denied wrongCommittee. doing. The report found that Mr. Warner, 70, did not disclose to CONCACAF or world soccer body FIFA that a $26m Centre of Excellence was built on land owned by his companies. Mr. Warner walked away from soccer in 2011 and avoided facing a FIFA Ethics Commission inquiry relating to bribery allegations surrounding the body’s presidential election. Jack Warner out as He was accused of helping Mohamed Bin security minister in Hammam of Qatar to bribe Trinidad
Friday, April 26, 2013
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Friday, April 26, 2013
www.themontserratreporter.com
Geothermal drilling successful cont’d. from page 1 Director, Ron Beardsley. Among the immediate concerns, the CRM members led by the chairman, presented. “Drill depth currently achieved is 2000m (6150ft). IDC can only drill another 400-500ft more, so drilling will stop in the next 2-3 days because the drill rig lacks the power to drill any deeper. This can mean no water, no steam, no pressure, thus no geothermal power!” The confirmation note to the Premier as to the earlier meeting continued: “…The reason, (problem) we should have had a rig with 1000hp (and not the existing 550hp) with the 200,000lbs lifting power, and most important multidirectional drilling capability which the present rig does not have and the EGS final report recommended.“ The recommendation included, “Firstly, enter into negotiations with IDC
Photos show, with careful viewing, the water that is returning from the well gushing heavily.
water returning from the drill hole
JUS WONDERIN
Jus wonderin wha mek twin otter need two hours notice fu land de John Osborne airport. Jus wonderin after hearing the Press Briefing last night and the promise of a continuation next week. Is there likely to be a beach on Montserrat which will be closed to the Roaches and Meades as our potential visitors will demand an unusual degree of exclusivity.
Jus wonderin if we will we need permission to use the designated beach. Jus wonderin if we permitted to ask about the operation of the “custom built” ferry which claims say has been ordered. Jus wonderin if it will be operated by GOM or if has it been ordered on the strength of an expression of interest from the private sector.
for a larger rig as specified by EGS, or cancel the contract and retender again. We are sure that IDC will be interested in providing what Government requires, in order that we do not lose continuity and the cost of the present well. In the final analysis, it will simply be changing one rig for what we should have had in the first place.” The (PWD) director
(Ministry of Comms and Works) when contacted and asked how the drilling was progressing, first of all said that at the moment (Thursday, there was an equipment breakdown, that may require the importation of spares). Beardsley said that as of Thursday a.m., the drilling had gone down 2,298 meters. “The plan was to go down 2,000 meters… We will continue to go down far as 2400 meters,” he countered. He said that there was some excitement and that things were fairly stable, as they were losing water at, ”…a maximum of 160 gallons a minute of water loss, it’s major, we’d like to see bigger loss than that.” He told TMR much the same as was told to us by the experts at the site on Wednesday and revealed that the geophysicist is due
in on the weekend, bringing, “…some very sensitive instruments with them, that can test the pressure and temperatures down the well.” He added the instrumentswill check the temperature profile as it goes down the well and show where the hottest point is. “…however the profile goes, if that shows, we have already past the hottest point in the well and start to cool off slightly, then there would be little point drilling down any deeper…” he said, hinting that this could well be the news at this point, which some ‘experts’ have determined, suggest this will mean that Well #1 is in sight. He concluded that if the profile shows (the temperature continues to rise, the drilling would continue to 2,400 meters.” He also said that regarding mechanical breakdown at the plant, “the engineers are currently assessing that to see how bad it is - it sounds like we’re going to have to get some parts to get it up and running again,” which from positive hopes and unconfirmed accounts will be in time to set up the rig for Well #2.