Friday, November 01, 2013
Page g 1
Today’s Scripture
Jesus said to [Peter], “Feed my lambs.” www.themontserratreporter.com
So, will David Brandt return! Vol. XXVIII No. 35
Week Ending Friday, November 01, 2013
Price $3.00
- John 21:15 (NRSV)
by Bennette Roach
Unidentified sources are said to be attempting to put pressure on for Chief Minister David Brandt to re-enter the political scene, for reasons the former CM say, is evidence that the people are dissatisfied with the current government. He says, “People appear to be dissatisfied with the status quo and somehow they have identified me as a person who they believe that could make a difference as in regard to my past performance as Chief Minister and leader of the opposition.
On Friday morning, it didn’t take long for the word to spread when what he has said was a jingle from some time ago, “when he announced: “I will be contesting the election as an independent”. ZJB news reported that Mr. Brandt had announced his candidacy, but
cont’d. on page 8
Police and Fire Community packs action for their annual week Police and Fire Community Week opened under the theme “Serving all Community Enthusiastic and Keen, Police and Fire Community week 2013”. The opening featured three activities, each catering to different audiences. The annual Police and Fire Community Week began last Saturday with a church parade at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Mongo Hill, a radio interview on ZJB at 8:30 this morning, and a Cricket Jamboree at Little Bay playing fields starting at 2 o’clock in the afternoon. The week of activities continued with a family fun day on Sunday starting at 3p.m at Little
cont’d. on page 8 scenes from police fun day (top) and Junior Citizens’ Day (bottom)
More
Headlines...
Tarzan brothers...pg 2
ECCU Essay winners - Browne, pg 5
Glendon Hospital gets donations...pg 2
MSS Good Conduct badges...pg 6
Kids’ Korner...pg 4
Your weather...pg 8
PURCHASE YOUR DREAM VEHICLE Bank of Montserrat Your Bank. Your Future.
www.bankofmontserrat.ms (664) 491-3843
WITH LOW INTEREST RATES Enquire about interest rates from our Loans Department.
Page 2
Friday, November 01, 2013
Glendon Hospital gets basic medical equipment from Santo Domingo On Tuesday, October 29, 2013, Mr. Clement Cassell of Woodlands, Montserrat, representing Dr. Angel Contreras of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, delivered on the doctor’s behalf to the Glendon Hospital, hospital and doctor’s equipment. Dr. Ingrid Buffonge accepted the donations on behalf of the hospital in the presence of the Hon. Premier Reuben Meade acting for the Minister of Health Colin Riley, who was off island. Mr. Cassell who said that he sought the donation in response to an appeal by the hospital for basic and first response items, explained. “On a recent visit to the Dominican Republic where I
accompanied two patients from St. Kitts… I told him (Dr. Contreras who sees allot of patients form the islands and set up appointments on their behalf) that in Montserrat we had a little problem in getting some equipment for the hospital and he willingly agreed to provide some of these equipment.” Cassell said as he pointed to the equipment that he was, “happy to say that Dr. Contreras has donated four stethoscopes, four blood pressure monitor cuffs, and two finger oxemeters,” adding that in addition, the Dr. Contreras has also promised to donate an EKJ machine which should be here shortly. Dr. Contreras has pledged
also, a cardiac monitor, ambu masks and ambu bags. Cassell also said that Dr. Julian who is a visiting cardiologist from the Dominican Republic has Dr. Julian a visiting cardiologist from Santo Domingo has also promised to provide a EKJ machine as well. Cassell after describing the items, said to Dr. Buffonge and the Premier, “on behalf of Dr. Contratias and Dr. Julian I would like to present these initial gifts to the hospital.” Dr. Buffonge expressed extreme gratitude for the equipment. “We’re extremely grateful,” she said to Cassell, “ that you’ve gone on this outreach mission to help cont’d. on page 8
From abandonment to refinement: Featuring Montserrat’s Tarzan Brothers
By Claude Gerald A wood mill at Lower Brades has been an almost silent contributor to the economy of Montserrat for about a decade. The striking feature of this
novel idea is that it converts local resources into assets of value for the consuming public that would go to waste if unused. Created, owned and managed by Lloyd Aymer and assisted by his doting older brother John Lee, the MONTSERRAT
duo is easily missed, apart from their Tarzan-like physical features and their superior strength and agility, in plying this special trade, which is dear to their hearts. Detailing how this project came into being makes a truly fascinating story in itself, outside this exposition. Lloyd Aymer is a chain saw specialist very skilled at tree cutting. With a large measure of cont’d. on page 6
REGISTERED LAND ACT, (CAP. 8.01) SECTION 34 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO REPLACE LOST LAND CERTIFICATES TAKE NOTICE that applications were filed in the Land Registry by the following persons, for the replacement of their Land Certificates, which have been reported lost: NAME Ronald E. Daley & Sarah A. Daley
REG. SECTION/REFERENCE Beachettes 12/03/227
DATE ISSUED January 15th 1988
Marilyn Furlonge
St. John’s 14/22/021
August 29th 2002
TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that anyone who objects to the issuance of the new Land Certificates or who has knowledge of the lost Land Certificates must within the period of fourteen (14) days from the date of publication of this notice in the newspaper inform the Registrar of Lands in writing. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that in the absence of any objection or information as to the existence of the lost Land Certificates within the time specified, the Registrar of Lands may proceed to cancel the original Land Certificates and issue new Land Certificates in their place without further notice. Dated this 29th day of October 2013. ……………………………… Jamiel M. Greenaway Registrar of Lands
FINANCIAL INFORMATION MONTH WE ARE COMMITTED The Montserrat Social Security Fund is committed to improving the well-being and quality of life of all persons on Montserrat.
The Social Security Building under construction in Little Bay, Montserrat
We do this by providing a range of Benefits to insured persons and also by partnering with organizations, or sponsoring events that promote healthy l i f e s t y l e s a n d d i s e a s e prevention. We also invest in initiatives aimed at advancing our Culture and the Arts, as well as projects to create employment and improve our economy. Our main income is derived from Contributions from all Employed Persons on Montserrat and also from Voluntary Contributors. A Voluntary Contributor is a person, registered with the Montserrat Social Security Fund, who is between sixteen (16) years and the Pensionable Age and has paid at least 250 contributions to the Fund while working in Montserrat;
Social Security Housing Project providing quality, affordable housing in Davy Hill, Montserrat
but now works/resides overseas. The rate of contribution depends on the Average Annual Insurable Earnings during the last two years working in Montserrat. Contributions can be paid monthly, annually or for a desired period. Forms to register as a Voluntary Contributor can be downloaded from our website at www.socialsecurity.ms; or contact us at telephone number 664-491-2567/3667, or e-mail operations@socialsecurity.ms Voluntary Contribution Secures a Better Age Pension! So, Don’t Delay. Register Today as a Voluntary Contributor!
Friday, November 01, 2013
Page g 3
Letters/Opinion
Another new aircraft arEDITORIAL Those who write the Editor rives - upgrades LIAT fleet should praise as well as carp By C Squared.
Newspapers worldwide have been viewed by many persons in deviant ways. Some see the press as the country’s information source, some see it as a medium for spreading propaganda, others see it as something that keeps the public aware of what is happening, yet others think it keeps the authorities in check and other persons could not care less. Regardless in which category we find ourselves, a newspaper is very important to any country or island. A newspaper, in my opinion, is more important than other sources of information such as radio or television. Don’t get me wrong – television and radio are important – they give you information in real time, but after the broadcasting of their information, they’re not available to peruse like a newspaper. A newspaper can be sent worldwide and will be around for many years. Now having said all of that, a newspaper should be used by everyone to air their views without fear of repercussion from anyone. That’s the way it should be, but unfortunately that’s not the case with most newspapers. The persons who write to the newspaper are mainly the ones who write to complain about or question something. Very few persons would write to compliment or congratulate. What happened to those persons who have a problem with the ones who want to express their views about something they deem questionable? Why don’t they write to praise persons or groups or whomever they think deserve such honors? This is where the problem lies. Enough of us are not taking time out to let each other know that an individual or group has done something good, but only to criticize when someone else sees things from another perspective. We should respect another person’s viewpoint whether we agree with it or not. Let us put our pens to paper and counteract those who see everything in a negative way while keeping in mind that the part they play might be important. It is my opinion that the Editor of the newspaper should publish articles sent to his publication regardless of who sent them or whose feathers might be ruffled, as long as the article is not libelous, or scandalous and be so proven. The people who write the articles also have the right to remain anonymous to the public as long as the editor knows who they are. There are a lot of things we may not agree with but must learn to live with. Let us not forget that editors cannot be forced to disclose their sources of information when requested to do so. They must be willing to go to jail if need be to protect their informants and those wishing to remain anonymous, but there are conditions. The foregoing was written in March 2000 and as far as we can remember came shortly after DFID withdrew funding a very popular section in the newspaper published by the Government, under the heading”, “Government Information. This same writer was sure on to the something that didn’t get any better as the very next writing was titled, “We’ve endured much worse, so why can’t we unite now?” That article states: “But something seems to be going wrong right now. For the size of this little rock, and all the trials and testing we’ve been through, and are still faced with, is it not time that we at least try to iron out our differences? The article towards the end says, “However, the top cannot be going up and the bottom going down.” Conditions and circumstances have changed since 13 years ago, but it all got far worse in ways we will highlight in time to come,how leaving the people not only finding it difficult to unite but riddled with fear.
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
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, October 30, 2013 – LIAT – The Caribbean Airline is moving full speed ahead with the upgrade of its fleet of aircraft with the addition of another new ATR aircraft. LIAT pilots delivered the latest ATR-72 aircraft at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua, last Friday, with a flight across the Atlantic from Toulouse, France. LIAT’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Julie Reifer- Captain Chris Cameron (left) and Captain Phil Gunsam in the flight deck Jones said the arrival was signifi- of LIAT’s fifth ATR aircraft cant since it was the first new plane piloted from Europe to the Caribbean exclusively by LIAT flight crew - captains Chris Cameron and Phil Gunsam. Also on board was LIAT flight engineer Mr. Gregory Marcano and LIAT quality manager Mr. William Lewis. “This fifth ATR delivery represents our firm commitment to the fleet renewal process as we embrace passenger safety and comfort at all times,” Mrs. Reifer-Jones said. LIAT now has a fleet of five new ATR Aircraft – one ATR-42 with 48 seats; and four ATR 72s, each with 68 seats. Mrs. Reifer-Jones underscored the new aircraft have helped to improve the airline’s operational performance, and will significantly help LIAT handle increased Chief Executive Officer (Ag.) Mrs. Julie Reifer-Jones with passenger volumes for the upcoming peak Christmas season. Captains Gunsam and Cameron
Michael Jackson’s doctor freed midway through his sentence
CALIFORNIA, United States – Conrad Murray, the Grenada-born, Trinidad-raised cardiologist convicted of accidentally killing pop icon Michael Jackson in 2009, was released from jail on Monday after serving two of his four years behind bars. California’s recent efforts to alleviate inmate overcrowding are said to have led to Dr Murray’s release from a Los Angeles prison after serving about half of his sentence.
While the doctor’s future remains uncertain, spokespersons have said he intends to return to medicine, even though his medical licenses have been invalidated in all three states where he had been authorized to practice, according to a Reuters report. The cardiologist’s return to the medical field is contingent on an appeal he has filed to overturn his conviction, but a California appellate court is still weighing whether it will even hear the case.
“He’s prepared to keep fighting this as long as it takes,” Valerie Wass, Murray’s attorney, told the news agency. Other news reports have taken a more bizarre twist, with some claiming that the doctor plans to use his pseudo-celebrity status to pave his way into singing stardom. “Murray thinks he can make it as a singer in the future,” Jeff Adams, Michael Jackson’s former cont’d. on page 7
Our Scripture Verse Today Cranky and Unappreciative? Jesus said to [Peter], “Feed my lambs.” - John 21:15 (NRSV) When I began serving at a homeless shelter, I assumed the guests would be appreciative. But several complained about the menu, and others snatched their plates in silence. Most met my smile with sideways glances that spoke of wariness and distrust. I thought angrily, How dare they treat me this way! They donÊt even know me. Then I heard God speaking through my frustration: „Jill, do you know them?‰ The next week I began to actually sit and eat with the guests. I asked, „How are you?‰ and took the time to listen · not only to what was said but also to what was
not said. I heard the sadness in the tone of voice, observed the forced smile, and was touched by the eyes glassy with tears. I learned names and heard stories. Those I once saw only as grouchy and ungrateful became sisters and brothers · each with their own unique pains of the past, fears of the present, and hopes for the future. In our reading for today, Jesus gave Peter some very specific directions about showing his love for Christ by serving others: „Feed my lambs . . . Tend my sheep.‰ Even those who at first seem cranky and unappreciative, we are also called to feed and to tend. Jill Allen Maisch (Maryland, USA)
Page 4
Friday, November 01, 2013
Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. How is the school term going for you. I hope you are doing your homework and attending your classes regular. Keep studying. If you read over what you have done that day in school, then studying would not be that hard. Remember to read a book a you go along. One day Anansi the spider picked some very fat and tasty yams from his garden. He baked them with much care and they came out smelling quite delicious. He could not wait to sit down and eat them. Just then there was a knock at his door. It was Turtle, who had been traveling all day and was very tired and hungry. “Hello, Anansi,” said Turtle. “I have been walking for so long, and I smelled the most delicious yams I’ve ever smelled. Would you be so kind as to share your meal with me?” Anansi could not refuse, as it was the custom in his country to share your meal with visitors at mealtime. But he was not very happy, for Anansi was a little too greedy and wanted the delicious yams all to himself. So Anansi thought to himself and came up with a scheme. “Please do come in, Turtle. I would be honored to have you as my guest this evening. Sit down, have a chair and help yourself.” Turtle came inside and sat down, but just as he reached for a yam, Anansi yelled, “Turtle, don’t you know better than to come to the table with dirty hands?” Turtle looked down at his hands and saw that they were filthy. He had been crawling all day and had not had a chance to clean up. Turtle got up and went to the river to clean his feet. He walked all the way back up to the house and Anansi had already begun to eat. “I didn’t want these tasty yams to get cold, so I had to begin,” said Anansi. “But please do join me now, Turtle.” Turtle sat down again and reached for a yam, but again Anansi yelled at him. “Turtle, did you not hear me before? It is not polite to come to the table with dirty hands!” He looked down and saw that his clean hands had turned dirty once more, since he had to crawl on them to get back to the house. So he walked down to the
Pre-School Corner
Anansi and Turtle
river once more to wash himself off. And when he returned this time, he was careful to walk on the grass so his hands would stay clean. But by the time he sat down at the table, Anansi had finished up the last bit of the tasty yams and not so much as a morsel was left. Turtle looked at Anansi for a moment and then said, “Thank you for sharing your meal with me. If you ever find yourself near my house, please let me return the favor.” And then he slowly walked out the door and continued on his way. The days went by and Anansi thought more and more of that meal that Turtle had offered. He got more and more interested in a free dinner and finally could not stand it anymore. He set off one day to find Turtle’s house. He found Turtle sunning himself on a riverbank just around dinnertime. Turtle looked up and saw him and said, “Hello, Anansi, have you come to share evening meal with me?” “Oh yes, yes!” said Anansi, who was growing hun-
Colouring Time
grier and hungrier by the minute. Turtle went underwater to his house to set up the dinner table for the two of them. Soon he came back to the bank and said, “Your place is waiting and the food is ready. Please join me, Anansi.” And then he dived underwater and began to slowly eat his meal. Anansi jumped into the water, but could not get down to the bottom of the river. He tried to swim down, but he was so light that he kept popping back up to the surface. He tried diving. He tried belly flops. He tried a running jump, but nothing would help him get down to the river bottom. In the meantime, Turtle was slowly eating his meal. Anansi was not about to give up a free meal, and was running around wondering what he would do. Finally he had an idea. He started grabbing stones and rocks and stuffed them into his jacket pockets. Now when he jumped into the water he sank right down to the bottom and was able to take his place at the table. The table was so beautiful and full of delicious foods. Anansi could hardly believe how many tasty foods were before him and could not wait to start his meal. But just as he reached for the first morsel, Turtle stopped eating and spoke. “In my country, we do not wear our jackets to the table.” Anansi noticed that Turtle had removed his own jacket before sitting down. Anansi started to remove his jacket, and as soon as it was off of his shoulders, he went zooming back up to the surface and popped out onto the riverbank. He stuck his head down into the water and saw Turtle slowly enjoying that wonderful banquet. Moral of the story: When you try to outsmart someone, you may find that you’re the one outsmarted.
Maze
Draw more circles in each row to make 5 Enjoy.
Find the difference
See you next week right here
In Your Own Korner. Where we will have fun 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
Connect the dots
Friday, November 01, 2013
Montserrat
Yellow Pages & Google: A premier partnership for building your online business
– Mark Macfee, Executive Vice President Montserrat Yellow Pages
“
“
We continue to invest in the best resources to deliver the right partners to boost the visibility of our advertisers, extending our range of innovative products to further demonstrate our commitment to providing the best digital marketing solutions possible.
Montserrat Yellow Pages is excited to announce it has been selected by Google to become an AdWords Premier Partner for small and medium size businesses. Our highly skilled team can provide expert help in creating, managing and optimizing your online advertising campaigns, whether it’s generating brand H^HYLULZZ NYV^PUN ^LIZP[L [YHMÄJ \ZLY LUNHNLTLU[ lead generation or e-commerce. Partners in the Google AdWords™ Premier SMB Partner Programme must meet the highest standards VM L_JLSSLUJL MVY X\HSPÄJH[PVU [YHPUPUN HUK J\Z[VTLY service. They must bring to the table local search marketing knowledge and solid experience working with small and medium sized businesses in the local market.
“
“
We are excited to launch the Google AdWords Premier SMB 7HY[ULY WYVNYHTTL ^P[O OHUK WPJRLK OPNOS` X\HSPÄLK companies like Montserrat Yellow Pages. – Rogelio Montekio, Head of Google’s Channel Sales
ONLINE
MOBILE
To help grow your business, contact us today! MontserratYP.com | (869) 465-5178 eraymond@globaldirectories.com
Page g 5
Misses Brown and Figueroa receive certificates in ECCU Essay contest Misses Brown and Figueroa receive award certificates in ECCU Essay contest Resident representative Mrs. Claudette Weekes of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Agency Office here once again paid a visit during the Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) special assembly on Monday. The special occasion once again involved the recent past MSS student Nadia Browne, now a Montserrat Community College student, who is now no stranger to winning ECCB-ECCU Essay contests. Mrs. Weekes presented the awards at the special assembly, to Nadia in the 14-16-year-old category, as well as a certificate of award to Maria Figueroa. See: http://www.themontserratreporter.com/ mss-nadia-browne-receives1st-place-prize-in-eccucontest/ MSS held a special assembly yesterday to acknowledge the top local performers in the OECS Essay competition. Nadia Browne age 14, this time collected her prize for winning in the 14 to 16 category, the 13th OECS Essay Competition, hosted and sponsored by the ECCB, while Maria Figueroa who was singled out for special mention for being the best in the 17 to 19 category on island received a certificate. After both girls received their award certificate Miss Brown give brief remarks in which she encouraged other students to take part in the competition. Reiterating Mrs. Weekes’ confidence in Montserrat’s students for having won the essay several times, “…we have the ability to win, we’ve done it two
Top: ECCB Agency representative Mrs. Claude Weekes delivers Award certificates to former MSS students, Nadia Browne, and below Maria Figueroa during Special Assembly at MSS. years in a row and we’ve also want other prizes in this contest before so I’m encouraging the 5th formers this year,” she said as she encouraged again. “I know your essay skills may not be good, mine wasn’t either, but Miss Cleo (Mrs. Cleo Cassell) helped me to develop them. You can try this year, give it your best, ask Miss Cleo for her help, ask your parents, ask your friends and participate,” she told the MSS students at the special assembly. OECS 2014 essay Mrs. Weekes meantime took the opportunity to an-
nounce and remind, ”that the topics are out.” They are: “How can the current OECS Education System be restructured to prepare young people to fulfill their aspirations;Young people’s consistent engagement with social media has the potential of advancing or stifling their advancement, discuss; and thirdly, Developing the creative talents of the young people of the OECS is critical to the advancement of the creative arts in industry in the region, discuss.” Children between the ages of 14 and 19 you’re eligible; the essay number of words will be between 715 and 1000, and, must write just on one of the topics. Principal Cherlyn Hogan had issued good conduct badges to deserving students prior to the award to Nadia and Maria. She ended the assembly after the school choir performed and thanked everyone for coming and participating.
Page 6
Friday, November 01, 2013
MSS students rewarded Jamaica to improve with ‘good conduct’ badges anti-doping agency At the Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) special assembly on Monday morning, principal Mrs. Cherlyn Hogan, as she welcomed ECCB Agency Mrs. Claudette Weekes for the main event of the assembly, along with media and special guests, announced there would be another surprise event or two. These included a special rendition by the school choir and especially the award of ‘good conduct’ badges to well behaved children a new initiative and an acup to the just concluded knowledgement of students half term. The reward was who understand the issues of the impact of students’ behaviour that the school has been Student choir entertains the Assembly
battling. Explaining how the badge winners were identified, she told the students that teachers, “took an average of the scores that you got from your teachers you know the maximum would have been five and all of the students who received 4.5 to 5 will get a good conduct badge, simply because they have been behaving exceptionally well.” The names were called of students from form one to five, who all came forward and received a badge from the principal. The student choir entertained as they sang and moved to the gospel song, “Shackles“ (praise you) featuring Nia Golden, bringing the assembly to a close after the thank you usual expressions of gratitude.
Tarzan brothers...cont’d. from page 2 versatility he honed his expertise in the Forestry Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Montserrat, with improvement course opportunities in the UK. Bringing foresight and insight backed by self belief in conceptualizing this exemplary enterprise, from the ground up as it were, Lloyd Aymer is providing for his family’s material upkeep whilst satisfying the market with red cedar and mahogany finished products, superior in quality and texture to imported varieties. The siblings’ skills and output compel attention. Their combined efforts consistently provide finished wood for the furniture industry on Montserrat, a first certainly since relocation to the north of this volcano impacted island. The raw material comes from the abandoned unsafe area. Many well adapted species of trees dotted the landscape of the forgotten capital Plymouth and its surrounding areas. A good percentage was mowed down during the passage of the mighty hurricane Hugo in 1989 and lost to economic use in its aftermath. Survivors still relate to the unbearable humidity
and heat that accompanied the absence of vegetation for some significant time afterwards. Trees and our welfare have a mutual interconnection that will remain positive. Given current trends, this natural association maybe unsustainable, as man displays his innate will to plunder nature’s blessing in the name of his concept of development. Their wanton destruction is a source of grief, since it impoverishes many facets of wholesome living. Our flora impressed Christopher Columbus on which he commented singularly, after his historic landing. Montserrat’s location and geography brought the best of nature’s natural endowments to shower the island with floral varieties that attracted commendation from naturalists’, on our fitness for the botanists’ prize of these isles. The volcano tarred thousands of trees, some of which were viewed as major landmarks with interesting histories backed by strong folklore, since they survived the vagaries of nature and many generations of Montserratians.
They fell in its direct pathway. Nature also made life impossible for many mature and useful species which now stand as monuments and reminders of what was and thus speak eloquently of the brevity of all life forms. It is these fossilized assets that these brothers have made into gold using ingenious ideas in simple and straight forward ways. Though the trees’ life is extinct, their residues, lignified and carbonized, with distinctive characteristics, enhance homes and offices to our lasting pleasure. Local species offer greater density in makeup. They are more naturally cured and thus the waxy finish is pleasant to the eye, long lasting given their termite resistant qualities, with less maintenance and more compliments as a result. The task of retrieving the remnants of gigantic trees some with up to 5 feet girths and 60-80 feet high, in hostile ashy conditions and trekking them northwards is a tale of yeoman effort. It is not for the faint hearted. It makes one ponder the nature of the seemingly ordinary who can transcend the
Miami Herald By DAVID McFADDEN Associated Press KINGSTON, Jamaica -- Jamaica’s top sports official said Wednesday that the Caribbean sprinting powerhouse is determined to improve its drug-testing regime, following a two-day inspection by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Three WADA officials inspected the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission after revelations of a near-complete breakdown of its out-of-competition testing of athletes from January 2012 to the July opening of the London Olympics, where it won eight of 12 individual sprint medals. Additionally, eight Jamaican athletes, including former world record holder Asafa Powell and Olympic 400-relay gold and silver medalist Sherone Simpson, have delivered positive tests this year. Natalie Neita-Headley, Jamaica’s minister with responsibility for sports, told a news conference Wednesday that the WADA visit was “constructive” and that the government awaits their report. “We have come out of those meetings having a greater commitment to working closer together in partnership to ensure that JADCO advances and becomes not only world class but best in its class,” Neita-Headley said. “Our focus going forward is on strengthening and building capacity, in collaboration with our partners.” Jamaica’s anti-doping agency will soon receive additional support from WADA and The International Association of Athletics Federations, track and field’s governing body, according to Neita-Headley. She declined to disclose specifics of that support, outside of WADA’s assistance in setting up a new JADCO website.
A WADA spokesman declined to comment about the visit to Jamaica. The three officials who visited Jamaica did not speak to the media. To improve its anti-doping programs, JADCO’s budget rose by 14 percent this year compared to last year, according to NeitaHeadley, and additional funding is being sought. A new executive director was recently named to lead the five-year-old organization and other staff positions are being filled. So far this year, JADCO says it has done 286 tests, roughly 45 percent of them out-of-competition. It also has plans to commence blood analysis tests. The debate over the rigor of Jamaica’s anti-doping efforts has raged for years, as the island of 2.7 million people has consistently racked up more medals in track and field than countries 10 times its size. But this year, statistics compiled by former JADCO director Renee Anne Shirley revealed that just one out-of competition test was done between February 2012 and the start of the London Olympics five months later. She said that when she raised concerns, no JADCO or Cabinet official would take them seriously. Shirley’s revelations were alarming enough to prompt action outside Jamaica, despite been viewed by critics and former colleagues as a turncoat at home. While WADA has audited the island’s testing regime before, Director General David Howman has said the special inspection this week is a direct response to the problems she exposed and to the string of positive doping tests this year. JADCO recently fueled speculation that Jamaica has a hidden cheating culture when it told the
Montreal-based organization that the inspection could not be made until early 2014, despite an August invitation from Jamaica’s prime minister and WADA’s indication that it was available to visit. Its call for a delay raised many eyebrows, even prompting WADA President John Fahey to call it “farcical” and “unacceptable” in an interview. To improve its image, NeitaHeadley said more emphasis will be placed on JADCO’s communication with the outside world, so that information can be disclosed in a “more timely and responsive manner.” She noted that Jamaica has a long history of sporting success and says it is committed to fair play. “Some people would like to believe that it’s (our success) for some other reason than natural talent. And so we are improving our communication strategy to ensure that we can meet the demand of a country that is doing so well,” she said. It’s not just Jamaica that tests its world-beating sprinters, the IAAF said it extensively tested elite Jamaican athletes, including the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, last year. The IAAF’s out-ofcompetition testing for Jamaica concentrated on athletes’ training camps and was “robust and comprehensive,” spokesman Chris Turner has told the AP. Led by Bolt, Jamaica’s record haul of 12 medals at the London Olympic surpassed the 11 it won in Beijing in 2008. The Jamaican team also departed Moscow’s world championships earlier this year with nine medals, including six golds. Read more here: http://www.miamiherald. com/2013/10/30/3721192/ jamaica-to-improve-anti-doping. html#storylink=cpy
extraordinary. It is courage that guarantees all other human traits as extolled by Sir Winston Churchill who lived a life of unparalleled valour. Lloyd’s operating compound in a Government targeted industrial location is well appointed, fenced, gated and tailored to a range of activities emphasizing productivity. Raw material is brought from Plymouth, on his 26 year old Toyota four door-four wheel pickup truck, with a tiny tray, packed and stored by his only helper, John Lee. Fitting such sizes and weights on a petite vehicle without damage to the locomotion is simply artful. Centrally located is the milling machine, covered by a 25 ft building with no sides to allow for cooling breezes. Enough space remains for the visitor to regale in comfort as the brothers demonstrate the intricacies of the conversion, splitting the macro into micro-workable pieces for display on well built shelves. The dust is sold to the poultry industry for bedding and unused scraps are added to a large charcoal pit in the vicinity or to fuel the coal pot for a morsel when needed. Milled wood is a hot commodity that slides off the display
shelves to meet the varying tastes of a growingly sophisticated home owner. Dotting the perimeter are bananas and coconut plants interspersed by a collection of vegetable plants of a shorter lifetime. Bananas and plantains reach award winning sizes due to the recycling of nutrients via a composting facility, which provides dark rich humus filled material to enrich plant life. Nearby is a pen of hens and roosters. Guarding the gate is sometimes a variety of high prized dogs. The hens are all local and fed local grown feed, largely grass to provide eggs of astounding body supporting qualities, of a higher nutritional profile than imported or grain fed battery raised hens. The yolks are golden yellow, shells firmer and denser and storage capacity superior. The welfare of the entire Montserrat is linked constructively to initiatives of citizens like the Lloyd Aymers’. Collectively we must cherish the idea of spinning and molding ideas into action and sticking to the dream until it is realized
whilst finding measures to sustain growth and development. Business thrives best on being innovative as exhibited and modeled by the culture set by these Tarzans. Exercising a level of independence and self-assurance, Lloyd Aymer has demonstrated very clearly that business must stop feeding from government institutions and the whim of the political directorate. By taking advantages of opportunities, one can enter the market place of production and increase the scale of operation to make significant impacts to national output and development. More examples of this venture can be a pace setter to continual liberation as a people in transition. Claude Gerald is a social commentator. He lives and enjoys life on Montserrat. Ceegee15@ hotmail.com
Friday, November 01, 2013
Page g 7
FIFA World Cup Trophy replica Argentina seeking to deepen gets a home at the museum of relations with CARICOM the Montserrat National Trust His Excellency the Governor Adrian Davis on Friday presented a replica of the FIFA World Cup Trophy to the Montserrat National Trust. He received it on behalf of Montserrat from the Coca Cola Company during the world tour of the World Cup Trophy’s round to Montserrat on Friday, October 18, 2013. The Mini Trophy will from then be on display at the National Museum in Little Bay. In presenting the miniature trophy Governor Davis spoke of one of the most joyous and exciting moments during his tenure in Montserrat so far. Recounting these moments he said that the Cultural Centre was full and everyone was extremely happy. “I told the members of FIFA and the Coca-Cola team how nice it must be to be involved in a program where everywhere you go everyone is extremely pleased to see
you and extremely happy... so many people wanted to have their photo taken in front of it…” he said. The Governor said he thought about where the replica trophy should exist in Montserrat. “I thought the obvious place is of course the National Museum,” adding a plug for the museum. While expressing his delight in presenting the trophy to the museum, the Governor said, “We want to encourage the national museum is a great place for exhibiting Montserrat artifacts old and new,” as he encouraged, “more people to come here and I hope people will come to look at the replica trophy and all the other great items you have in the museum. Mrs. Dulcie James is the president of the National Trust and she accepted on its behalf, “and in particular,” she said to the Governor, “the Historical Archeological and Museum Committee thank you for coming.”
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – Argentina Monday pledged to strengthen its relationship with the Caribbean Community (Caricom) saying that it was also looking to develop new areas of integration with the Caribbean under the paradigm of south-south cooperation. Argentina’s Plenipotentiary Representative to the CARICOM, Luis Alberto Martino, who presented his letters of credentials to CARICOM Secretary General, Irwin la Rocque, said the decision of his country to re-establish a diplomatic presence in Guyana and Barbados and open new embassies in St Lucia and Suriname, underscores the move by Buenos Aires to have a greater presence in the region. “These initiatives are part of the larger policy of closer cooperation with the region, as well as the political process within CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States).” He said the recent decision to accept Guyana and Suriname as Associate Members of MERCOSUR (the Southern Common Market), provides an open ground to develop a closer integration between the two regional groupins. “By the same token, Argentina’s initiative in the region is at the heart of one of the principles in its foreign policy, the one that aims at achieving a greater regional, sub-regional and bi-regional inteor (self) hanging,” Chase said. Prosecution officials and the gration, in this case, particularly attorney for the Daniel’s family did between South America and the not return calls for comment. Caribbean, as a way to facilitate She described, as she understands, the original cup 14.5 inches high being held up by two persons is of 18-carat gold, making its journey to 89 countries, landing in Montserrat last week. “We are very privileged that we have the opportunity first to see the original and now to have a copy of the replica,” she said, adding, “we will treasure it. It’s a memento that should be reflected of Montserrat’s interest in football and particular we have an association with FIFA since1996, so it is good that we have something to commemorate the landing of the trophy.” The authentic, one-ofa-kind FIFA World Cup Trophy is reported to be 14.5 inches high, weighing 13.61 pounds. The base contains two layers of semi-precious malachite, while the bottom side of the Trophy bears the engraved year and name of each FIFA World Cup winner since 1974.
St. Lucia pathologist rules on death in police custody The Associated Press The official pathologist for the small Caribbean country of St. Lucia has ruled that a young man died from asphyxia in a police lockup, but offered no further clarification on his death, officials said Tuesday. Police say they found 22-yearold Chakadan Daniel hanging in a cell last week in a station in the eastern village of Micoud. He had been arrested on warrants charging escaping custody, assaulting an officer and damaging property. The dead man’s relatives insisted he would never have killed himself and accused police of strangling him. The accusations came a few months after the U.S. withdrew assistance to St. Lucia’s police over
concerns about allegations of a dozen unlawful killings between 2010 and 2011. The deaths occurred during a security initiative called “Operation Restore Confidence” as the tourismdependent island grappled with a rise in violent crime. Assistant Police Commissioner Frances Henry released the pathologist’s ruling. She said the island’s director of public prosecutions would have to determine if a coroner’s inquest or another review should be held. Daniel’s death is still under investigation by detectives, and Henry said she has met with members of his family and their lawyer. Dr. McDonald Chase observed the autopsy at the insistence of the dead man’s family. He said an inquest should be held to clear up the matter. “The autopsy was not conclusive whether it was murder
Asst. Police Commissioner Frances Henry
the development of our countries with social inclusion. “With the reopening of our Embassy in Georgetown and the appointment of a resident representative to CARICOM, Argentina in fact hopes to strengthen the ties and develop new areas of integration with the Caribbean under the paradigm of south-south cooperation.” He said that the Argentine Government is ready to start working toward the implementation of the agreement with Caricom to establish a Standing Joint Commission on Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination. “This will promote and certainly consolidate cooperation between Argentina and Caricom in the political, commercial, economic, scientific, technical and cultural areas,” he said, adding that Foreign Minister Héctor Timerman will be participating in the meeting of the Council of Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) to be held in Georgetown next year. “On that occasion it would be the intention of Minister Timerman to refer to the political situation in the region and to convey the vision of the Argentine Government on this matter. He would also wish to reaffirm the proposal of our Government to Caricom for the establishment of a regional office in Buenos Aires.” La Rocque welcomed the decision by Argentina to re-establish a presence in the region saying it is a testament to the commitment
of Argentina to the deepening of relations with Caricom. “Moreover, the unwavering support that Argentina has given to Haiti in the aftermath of that country’s 2010 earthquake, in addition to the areas for cooperation being developed between Argentina and Caricom member states at the bilateral level, all send a very powerful message of Argentina’s determination to enhance its relations with the region. He said an area in which Caricom and Argentina can pursue their relations is the CaricomArgentina Joint Commission and “it is my hope that this body can meet as soon as possible in order to explore areas for further cooperation at the regional level in the areas identified; namely, the political, commercial, economic, scientific, technical and cultural fields”. La Rocque said Caricom was also hoping to benefit from closer relations with Argentina within several international groupings. “We look forward to Argentina’s support as we seek to advance the interests of small vulnerable economies in international fora. It is also my hope that the Community will benefit from Argentina’s support in several international fora, including the work of the Sixty-Eighth United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) of which the presidency is held by a distinguished diplomat from the Caricom country of Antigua and Barbuda, Ambassador John Ashe...”.
argued that it had been unaware of Jackson’s dependence on propofol and other sedatives when it signed on to manage Jackson’s concert series and hired a personal doctor for him. http://www.caribbean360.com/index.php/ news/1079587.html?utm_sour ce=Caribbean360+Newsletters &utm_campaign=365f9c2761Vol_8_Issue_188_ News10_30_2013&utm_ medium=email&utm_
term=0_350247989a3 6 5 f 9 c 2 7 6 1 39367469#axzz2jFxGofwe Read more: http://www.caribbean360.com/index.php/ news/1079587.html?utm_sour ce=Caribbean360+Newsletters &utm_campaign=365f9c2761Vol_8_Issue_188_ News10_30_2013&utm_ medium=email&utm_ term=0_350247989a3 6 5 f 9 c 2 7 6 1 39367469#ixzz2jFzBjbyM
Dr. Conrad Murray freed...cont’d. from page 3
bodyguard, told the New York Daily News. Meanwhile, sources have told celebrity website TMZ that Murray is courting publishers to write a book about the time he spent with Jackson. Accounts of bids for a career as a pop star and million-dollar book deals appear to be on the same page as Murray’s mindboggling forays into the limelight during his incarceration. In June, Murray called into CNN’s “Anderson Cooper 360” and sang a personalized version of “The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot” on live TV. He also sent Jackson’s teenage daughter Paris a puzzling audio message in which he said he loved her as if she were his own daughter and sang her Jackson’s song “You Are Not Alone.” Michael Jackson died in July 2009 amid preparations for “This Is It,” a series of high-profile comeback concerts scheduled
to premiere in London. Suspicion quickly fell on Murray, whom concert promoter AEG Live had hired as the superstar’s personal physician. Two years later, Murray was found to have given Jackson propofol as a sleep aid during the months leading up to his death. He was also found to have given the “king of pop” a dose of the medication hours before his death. At trial, experts testified that propofol is a surgical sedative, not a sleep aid, and said that Murray had not monitored Jackson in accordance with the protocols for administering the powerful drug. On the morning Jackson’s died, Murray had left the superstar alone in bed with a propofol IV drip in his arm, prosecutors said. Earlier this month, AEG Live was cleared in a civil suit brought by Jackson’s mother and children, accusing the company of negligently hiring Dr Murray. The company successfully
Page 8
Friday, November 01, 2013
www.themontserratreporter.com
Retired Brandt may return
cont’d. from page 1
according to the radio station in later news, during an interview with ZJB news, “a report said, “the former chief minister stopped short of announcing that he would contest the upcoming elections.” Mr. Brandt told The Montserrat Reporter (TMR) at mid-day today, that it all started because of a pressure group responding to a call by several persons that he should return to the arena. The group he says “Friends of Montserrat,” “put out an advertisement that was a jingle in the last election in which I contested. It is not something that is made now; it’s a repeat that I used when I ran (in 2006). You will notice it said, ‘I will be contesting the
election as an independent’, they thought that by putting on the jingle, that would persuade me to run.” In 2009, after the hon. Dr. Lewis caused the Legislative Council to be prorogued, the long-standing attorney and legislator, he kept a promise he made in 2006, when he made it clear that he did not intend to contest any further elections. After he had announced his retirement, a retiree ceremony honouring himself, the longest serving legislator John Osborne and Speaker Joseph Meade, both now deceased, it was said in a speech. “On the occasion of the retirement from the political arena of David Samuel Brandt,” the
following is a small part of that speech: “...And when he begins to speak on a political platform, people just stop talking and draw closer. When he is making a broadcast on Radio Montserrat, people of all political parties call each other to say put on your radio; Mr. Brandt is on the air.”
Police and Fire Week ...
His supporters may argue he never did retire, was initially believed to be his since when the announcement was made back in return announcement noted, 2009, he said he was not retiring, and, “would be a “people are obviously not keen observer of political and government affairs.” He happy with their experience did as from time to time he has made and published with this government,” comstatements. menting on the fact that people It is true that there is a newness in the absence are asking for those who inof a functioning other party, although the Movement tend to provide that difference for Change and Prosperity (MCAP), is the party win- to come out now, sooner rather ning six seats the sudden 2009 elections, except for than later. the Ministers themselves, little or nothing has been Now once again, many heard of the party. eyes and ears are rested on It is ten months away from the date of September him. He was elected to the 12, 2014, Premier Meade has named for the next elec- Legislature in 1983 repeattions. Just about anything can happen between now edly until 2001, when he and then and there have been much speculation, that didn’t contest a seat; elected the date could change and be brought forward, the again in on June 6, 2006 until fact that the September 12 date brings it down to the parliament was dissolved on five-year deadline June 15, 2009 of the tenure of the These two former Chief Ministers, David Brandt and Premier Reuben Meade, did campaign together in 1991. government. Brandt in re- Meade Brandt sponding to what
cont’d. from page 1
Very different records, will you have to chose?
Bay playing field. At this event the Fire Service Drill Display in which a six member team from St. Kitts Fire Service will compete against the local Fire Service for the John Charles Aymer Cup. On Monday the Montserrat cultural Centre came alive with the
Hospital Donations thanking the doctors and Mr. Cassell, acknowledging their service to patients from Montserrat. “On behalf of the Ministry of Health and government of Montserrat, I wish to say thank you very much to Mr. Cassell and his team for assisting us in soliciting this help from our Caribbean partners.” We know that quite a number of Montserrat residents and Montserratians do go to the Dominican Republic where they access medical attention, specialist medical l to r: Dr. Ingrid Buffonge, Mr. Clement Cassell, and Premier Reuben T attention,” he Meade said.
cont’d. from page 2 our hospital. We give our sincere thanks to Dr. Contreras and Dr. Julian for what they have given us and they’ll definitely come in handy.”
Holding on to some equipment, she said, “We use every day, so thank you very much for the EKG machine that’s going to come…” Acting for the Minister of Health, the Premier, joined in
agencies, and show their interest as to maybe later on is life what they want to become.” Last night Salas Hamilton was the guest speaker at the annual Lecture at the Credit Union Hall starting at seven o’clock in the evening. Tonight the Services will entertain with the Police and fire Variety Concert; which starts at 7:30 in the evening at the Police grounds. Tomorrow, Nov. 2 the curtains will come down on the week’s activities with the Annual Charity Ball, dinner and dance at the Montserrat Cultural Centre at 7:30 p.m..
annual Gospel Concert, while on Tuesday Junior Citizens Day and Open Day at the Royal Montserrat Police Service and Fire Service Compound from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by Sports Day Wednesday at the Blake’s Football Field starting at 3 o’clock. Children from the four primary schools on island had an opportunity to tour the Police and Fire compounds and expand their knowledge about how these entities operate. The compound was abuzz with children at various locations where representatives from a number Visit online: www.themontserratreof agencies such as The Montserrat Red Cross, The Disaster Management Coordination Agency DMCA porter.com and follow up to date, by the and the Water Division of the Montserrat Utilities hour, near accurately what weather to expect Ltd were on hand to provide information to the all over Montserrat. Choose your location. enthusiastic young minds. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Astrid Wade told ZJB news about the day’s initiative, to have the Water Division of MUL, The Red Cross, DMCA, Fire, Police K9 unit, and Partners of America. “It’s a very interesting day and we have tried to keep it up over the years during the Police and Fire week celebrations, “ he said. He continued, “It’s always been a successful event. This is our way of giving back to our junior citizens. We use this day for them to see what careers they may want to take up later on in life, so it’s just a day for them to see the careers, see the different
Your Weather