The Montserrat Reporter April 05 2013

Friday, April 05, 2013

Page g 1 Today’s Scripture

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MSS Sports Day - Tug-o-War

“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you . . . ‘The Son of Man must be . . . crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” - Luke 24:5-7 (NIV)

MSS steals Easter Monday spotlight Vol. XXVIII No. 10

by Bennette Roach The Montserrat Secondary Scholl (MSS) girls and boys stole the spotlight at the annual Easter Monday Relay, 2013, as

Week Ending Friday, April 05, 2013

Price $2.00

records tumbled. As a result, both MSS girls team and Conscious Vybz planted their teams in the record books.

The men’s team Conscious Vybz

cont’d. on page 12

Governor announces, no further action against COP Foster His Excellency Governor Davis, yesterday, Thursday, April 4, issued a release regarding circumstances surrounding Commissioner of Police (COP) Steve Foster, when

the Governor told him: “a complaint has been made against you alleging certain conduct which may amount to criminal behaviour.” This was in last week in

Commissioner Steve Foster

More

Headlines...

October 2012.

See: http://www.themontserratreporter.com/cop-foster-on-leave-forallegations-of-inappropriate-conduct/ The release reads: “The investigations into alleged incidents of sexual harassment/misconduct by the Commissioner of Police (press releases of 24 October and 18 December 2012) have now been concluded. I am advised that the investigations found sufficient material for the lodging of criminal charges for indecent assault or common assault.

I am further advised due to the

cont’d. on page 2

Mikila Gittens running the toughest leg for the MSS girls team Top: Winning female relay team share spotlight with members of the MSS male team who took second.

Man from Baker Hill...pg 3

Joint Primary Schools Sports Day...6&7

Ping Pong Island Budget...pg 4

Kids Korner...pg 8

MSS Sports Day coverage...pg 5

Small Business Development Centres...pg 10

24 HOUR ATM SERVICE Bank of Montserrat Your Bank. Your Future.

www.bankofmontserrat.ms (664) 491-3843

Page 2

Friday, April 05, 2013

No further action against Commissioner cont’d. from page 1

passage of time, initiation of criminal proceedings for either offence is now statutebarred and that disciplinary proceedings were also not possible due to a gap in Montserrat’s legislation.”

The investigation had come from allegations, solicited at the passing out of a young female police following her resignation.

The Governor after allowing Foster to resume duties in December had reported that hewas waiting on advice on the on-going investigation.

After advising at his last press conference that the investigation was completed, he was waiting on information for the way forward regarding Foster.

The result is as stated

above, but the Governor issued a reprimand of sorts to the Commissioner stating finally in the release: “I have reminded the Commissioner to ensure that his actions meet the standards of integrity, fidelity and trust which are expected of all Government officials.

The Commissioner who had engaged Counsel in Da-

vid Brandt had said next to nothing publicly on the matter, but while having no further comment, said that this closes one chapter. Attorney David Brandt who had been involved on Foster’s behalf with the Governor has only just returned from knee surgery overseas and has not been immediately available for comment.

MSS Sports Day a success The Montserrat Secondary School was not to be outdone by the Primary School sports Day as parents and friends all turned out to support their students and the house teams.

March Past WINNING HOUSE - ORANGE Record: Blue 2009, 2010 & 2012 CHAMPION BOYS CLASS V Veron Duberry Red & Keijounia Thomas Blue 9 pts.

Dejon Spencer Blue 15 pts. 2012 CLASS IV YannickLyn Orange 15 pts.

Leslie Ogle Blue 22 pts. 2012 CLASS III Wendell Allen Green 16 pts.

Venice Wilkins Blue 13 pts. 2012

l: Govern Adrian Davis

CLASS II

Tuyen Osborne Red Keanu Barnwell Red CLASS I Jamal Halley Red Jerely Browne Green CHAMPION GIRLS CLASS V MikilaGittens Orange Anisa Lindsey Blue CLASS IV Denielle Daley Green DavikahCrichlow Red CLASS III DavikahCrichlow Red Lerian Cassell Blue CLASS II Lerian Cassell Blue Tezinia Woodley Green

13 pts.

19 pts. 2012 18 pts 10 pts. 2012 20 pts.

20 pts. 2012 12 pts.

22 pts. 2012 17 pts.

15 pts. 2012 16 pts.

25 pts. 2012

cont’d. on page 5

Felix Davis, a child, already charmed by Montserrat He was undoubtedly the youngest known visitor to Montserrat, only weeks old when he arrived here with his parents in December, 2011 for the Christmas holidays.

Now at 18 monthsold, Felix Reuben Louis Davis, grandson of Governor Davis and his wife Sujue, was back in Montserrat for a second visit. Felix crawled into Montserrat's history books as the island's youngest ever visitor at just 9 weeks old when he came to spend Christmas 2011 with his grandparents. His parents, Amy Davis, a diplomat with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Daniel Davis, a doctor specialising in Geriatric medicine are delighted to bring him back to Montserrat and have been enjoying the same warm hospitality they did on their first visit.

"It's nice to escape

the cold of Switzerland," Daniel told The Montserrat Reporter "and Felix is loving his time in Montserrat, discovering new places and visiting some familiar ones too."

Felix arrived on March16, just in time to join in the last of the St

Patrick's Day celebrations. In addition, unlike his last visit, according to his parents, he managed to stay awake for most of the events! He particularly enjoyed the African musical festival and could be seen dancing along to the music at the front of the crowd. He also went to the Salem Slave Feast and enjoyed the local food and drink.

And even after festival Felix has been very busy. He visited the residents at the Golden Years home, took part in Auntie Madge's sports day, kayaked around to Rendezvous Bay, attended a reception at Government House for the crew of visiting RFA Wave Knight and helped his busy grandma to give out prizes at the MSS sports day. Even at his tender age he seemed

particularly impressed with all the developments at Little Bay since his last visit, especially the new museum and the soon to be completed Social Security building.

"Unfortunately this is only a short visit" said Amy, who is expecting another

baby boy in August, "but we hope to come again with Felix and his little brother - though I doubt he will break Felix's record as the youngest ever visitor!"

Felix Davis out and about with his parents and grandparents at the various activities held during the St. Patrick’s week of Activities

Friday, April 05, 2013

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MARSE SIR’S land

by Man from Baker Hill

Marse Sir’s land is not my own. Massuh’s land belongs to his children and their off springs. My forefathers never fought the French or killed the Arawacks to gain possession of Montserrat; but Massah did. So Marse Sir’s properties could never belong to me the descendant of a slave. I feel that Montserrat belongs to the sons of slave master. Give it back to them!

I write to entertain, only. I am! I observe my thoughts; and sometimes I laugh at them as they parade across my mental screen. Although this thought that Montserrat could never belong to the children of the slaves attracts laughter, I found myself holding it for quite some time.

And so, I write to… entertain.

Land, that most important factor of production, the creative element of wealth! Land in the north, what good is it serving the people of Montserrat? Lands from the Silver hills to Bottomless Ghaut have not been productive since ‘Marse Sir’ left it. From productive cotton to useless grass, sheep agouti and iguana, is this the best the brains of Montserrat can do with land?

My God, You who rewards for talents used, take back all our non-productive lands! Return it to the Slave master’s sons.

Land is for much more economic activity than to sell a plot here or to sell a plot there. It is the most

valuable resource in the universe and Montserrat’s lands must be efficiently used to create wealth and economic benefits, especially for young Montserratians.

History taught us that in the past lime and sugar worked; their production created wealth for Marse Sir. And for a while cotton played its part for ordinary Montserratians. But for the past 50 years Montserrations have retrogressed to buying and selling little plots here and there, waiting on the return of the sons of white Marse Sir for the great sale. We lauded that as the real estate business.

Unfortunately, those days are over; the big sale will not come, except good old Marse Sir’s government (the UK) steps in obligingly. The future now leans favourably towards Leasehold Property Rights for economic production and wealth creation. So land owners beware; cease from hoarding vast acres. Instead make haste and give it up back to Massuh’s sons; enter into wealth creating ventures with them, the white man.

Here is another thought that is crossing my mental sphere. In all honesty, I am being entertained by these thoughts.

It is becoming increasingly difficult for 75 year old Montserratians to think and plan for young people.

The belief that an 80 year old man can project relevant pathways suitable for young Montserratians is null and void. In fact, all the planning and political masquerading in the name of volcano since 1996 has failed the

young Montserratians.

But it is their time now! Bring the youths to the table and let them think for themselves.

Let them Google the Free Port of Bahamas, Freeport, Maine USA and the economic zone of St Martin so that they can see for themselves the economic possibilities of new age development. Allow them to compare the Rockefeller style hotel development of the 1960’s on Puerto Rico and Virgin Gorda with the floating hotels on mega cruise ships of the 21st centaury.

Let the youths determine the course of their future and Montserrat’s.

We need to put our faith in our youths now. They need to be unencumbered as they seek to traverse space and time to derive true economic worth from lands in the north. They must not be burdened down with bits and pieces of family plots. They must be free to move Montserrat forward towards its rightful place among the islands with economic potential. Give them a chance to visualize and materialize.

And in the mean time … I shall write to entertain.

Yes in the meantime I shall shout… give back the lands in the north to Marse Sir’s descendants. Yes, take those lands form the sons of the slaves who wait in conservative expectation for a big sale. Give them $99 million more, send them into exile, and banish them from our shores for at least 25 years. Montserrat does not need any Black Marse Sirs!

the effect the high cost dismissed the idea. of electricity is having on The premier any subhomeowners and small sidy to cushion the impact businesses, has on again of high electricity cost is not an option for the government, thatif Montserrat goes down that road it may end up in similar financial distress as St. Kitts, An-

tigua and Grenada who have all subsidies the fuel and cooking gas.

This is not the first time that Meade has denied considering any such move by his government.

Last year he was adamant there was nothing

he would or could do to satisfy the suggestion.

In addition to the above the premier said, ‘such a move could affect social welfare recipients and the vulnerable as monies would have to be reallocated.’

tions, here where I work, every truck that we load is temperature compensated so that every gallon is actually the exact amount.

Another reminder, if there is a gasoline truck pumping into the storage tanks when you stop to buy gas, DO NOT fill up; most likely, the

gasoline is being stirred up as the gas is being delivered, and you might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the bottom.

No subsidy for electicity and petrol costs, Premier Premier the Hon. Ruben Meade, speaking in the Legislative Assembly earlier in March this year

responding to concerns expressed by the leader of the opposition the Hon. Donaldson Romeo about

Tips on pumping gas Our readers may have seen some of this as we published similar information before, but a reminder is always useful.

If it is new to you, then it is worth noting.

I don't know what you guys are paying for gasoline.... but here in California we are paying up to $3.75 to $4.10 per gallon. My line of work is in petroleum for about 31 years now, so here are some tricks to get more of your money's worth for every gallon.

Here at the Kinder Morgan Pipeline where I work in San Jose , CA we deliver about 4 million gallons in a 24-hour period thru the pipeline..

One day is diesel the next day is jet fuel, and gasoline, regular and premium grades. We have 34-storage tanks here with a total capacity of 16,800,000 gallons.

Only buy or fill up your car or truck in the

early morning when the ground temperature is still cold. Remember that all service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground. The colder the ground the more dense the gasoline, when it gets warmer gasoline expands, so buying in the afternoon or in the evening....your gallon is not exactly a gallon. In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the temperature of the gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, ethanol and other petroleum products plays an important role.

A 1-degree rise in temperature is a big deal for this business. But the service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps.

When you are filling up do not squeeze the trigger of the nozzle to a fast mode If you look you will see that the trigger has three (3) stages: low, m i d d l e , a n d h i g h . Yo u

should be pumping on low mode, thereby minimizing the vapors that are created while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump have a vapor return.

If you are pumping on the fast rate, some of the liquid that goes to your tank b e c o m e s v a p o r. T h o s e vapors are being sucked up and back into the underground storage tank, so you are getting less worth for your money.

One of the most important tips is to fill up when your gas tank is HALF FULL. The reason for this is the more gas you have in your tank the less air occupying its empty space. Gasoline evaporates faster than you can imagine. Gasoline storage tanks have an internal floating roof.

This roof serves as zero clearance between the gas and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the evaporation. Unlike service sta-

MONTSERRAT REGISTERED LAND ACT, 1978 SECTION 34 NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO REPLACE LOST LAND CERTIFICATES TAKE NOTICE that an application was filed in the Land Registry by the following company, for the replacement of Land Certificates, which have been reported lost: NAME REG. SECTION/REFERENCE DATE ISSUED Martini Investments Ltd. Beachettes 12/07/048 June 26, 1995 Martini Investments Ltd. Beachettes 12/070/49

June 26, 1995

TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that anyone who objects to the issue of the new Land Certificates or who has knowledge of the original 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 original Land Certificates within the time specified, the Registrar of Lands may proceed to cancel the original Land Certificates and issue a new Land Certificates in their place without further notice.

Dated this 4th day of April 2013.

Sgd. Jamiel M. Greenaway REGISTRAR OF LANDS

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Friday, April 05, 2013

Letters/Opinion

EDITORIAL Fool everyone only for so long but not all the time

If it had not been that we have come to accept much of the things coming from government as shrouded with suspicion, we would not be so puzzled by the number of persons who have sought to express their concerns and doubts with the budget presentation by Premier and Minister of Finance Meade.

The difficulty here is not being able much of the times to test information that is provided and to check that what you are told has merit or mere words behind it.We (the media) were advised on Jan. 21 that the DFID Budget Mission team would visit from the 24th to the 30th of January at the Cabinet Secretariat to look at the projections for expenditure and revenue for the government in the coming financial year which begins April 2013.

Their work was to start the day they arrived, there being but one possible newcomer to Montserrat on the DFID team.We were advised as follows: “On Day One, the team is expected to meet with His Excellency the Governor Adrian Davis and the Honourable Premier Reuben T. Meade. Later that day, they will look at the 2013/14 budget estimates including domestic revenue projections and policy objectives. It is also expected that the teams will review the variations in revenue and spending for the 2012/2013 against the budget estimated and the impact of external developments.”

They were to discuss such areas concerning the retention and recruitment issues and a review of the Technical Assistance posts and capacity development funding for 2013/14. There was even to be a video conference meeting with the DFID Head Office to look at reforms as laid out in the May 2012 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU); as well as a session with the members of the Opposition.

They arrived as scheduled and were to hold a press briefing as normal.

We looked forward to this remembering the briefing as difficult, maybe even contentious, in both February and September. By mid-year the team, still hedging on the delay and disagreements over revenue collections, reported some progress especially that the ‘suspicious’ MOU had been signed in May At the review, they were to discuss as follows: Economic trends, progress on reforms and expenditure and revenue performance since April 2012.

The implications of the tax policy, reform in the collection of tax arrears and updates on outstanding cases, compliance issues and review additional expenditure requests, including unforeseen pressure on the health budget, costs associated with litigations against GoM, and arrears to local and regional institutions.

Also of grave concern to DFID, and to us, Tax incentives to new business was a central issue with DFID interested in how decisions are taken to grant benefits to companies such as MonTobacco Ltd. In addition, they looked at the progress on outsourcing and the impact on the financial situation for the present budget were to be evaluated. Moreover, there were more: The financial services sector, transport subsidy performance, public service reform, pensions, and compliance issues with the sand mining industry.

All this time we heard nothing from government on these issues, but we were aware and even understood the drastic but deceiving change in the tariff structure which we reported was nothing more than an attempt to raise additional revenue. However, government was giving tax and duty concessions to a company that should never do business in Montserrat; under the guise, they would provide very questionable employment.

On that background from a year ago when there was a delay in DFID’s agreement right up to budget presentation time as to the UK budgetary aid, how could Montserrat be in the position where DFID up to March had not yet made “conclusive findings or an indication of the budget aid settlement for 2013/14.” This budget year, DFID left without holding the press briefing because they had nothing ‘good’ to report, no agreement to budgetary aid. We found out that they promised it would not be less than previous.

Government should never have presented a budget, and if they did should have told the people of Montserrat that it was a TEMPORARY one.

Eventually we obtained the budget aid final Aide Memoire from source, and we are grateful. However, it is the worst we have seen. Worst of all we learn that Government is in possession of it, but Ministers had not seen it.

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

A Ping-Pong Island Budget

by Claude Gerald Is it really the nature of politics or that of politicians to engage in waffling language designed to mislead and misguide? Is it that when you have nothing to say, you insist on attempting because if you say it attractively and often that you are deemed credible and on top of your game?

The recent Budget Speech, captioned ‘Counting our Blessings amongst the challenges’, rendered by Montserrat’s first Premier Reuben T. Meade is instructive. It seemed rushed, temporary, forcibly so and inherently feeble. The Premier was caught off guard by his own devices.

DFID our major partner in development is seemingly frustrated with this government’s partnership. The island is suffering because of ineptitude in the seat of local

governance.

In January this year in a high level meeting with local officials on budgetary aid, DFID cites in an Aide Memoir, as disturbing, failed attempts to get background documentary information to allow for a full assessment of budgetary and revenue performance for the previous year and government’s forecasts for 2013/2014. One senses that this is more the norm than the exception in dealing with our main benefactor, whose standard rests squarely on justification in objective terms.

The visiting team was therefore handicapped in submitting conclusive findings to the government of Montserrat.

Nor was it able to provide a budget aid settlement for this current budget in light of this sleeping-on-the-job action of the administration. After all

a Budget is a serious document with legislative teeth that comes once a year and sets the stage for the economic and financial outlook ahead.

It is not a Mickey-mouse or recreational hobby.

But Meade in his wisdom seems to feel he can whisk pass most problems by whitewashing with words cloaked in a priestly garb, thinking and behaving that he has penetrated the psyche of us all.

Mr. Meade did not tell the nation that this budget suffered from data insufficiencies and that it was an interim one to allow Ministries to have funds at the start of the financial year.

The budget ought to reflect basic truths without a desire to disadvantage the unknowing. It has the capacity to build or destroy confidence in the economy, important for busi

cont’d. on page 10

F E E D B AC K

Montserratians in the UK (Benefits Change There have been some brief comments on the above article E-mail : Johnwhite@hotmail.com Comment: I think that 18 years was more than enough time for them to use the vast opportunities afforded them. I have no sympathy . These changes relate to all British residents so why single out this group? If they are not elderly or vulnerable- ley dem go look wuk for dem do! j.thomas651@btinternet.com Comment: If you don’t like it go back to Montserrat.There are too many scroungers in UK.

Our Scripture Verse Today Christ is Risen!

“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you . . . ‘The Son of Man must be . . . crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” - Luke 24:5-7 (NIV) In our Bible discussion, we looked at the four Gospels’ accounts of the resurrection of Jesus. We discovered that each of the Gospels reports a different version of how the events took place.

Even though the Gospels present different accounts of the resurrection, all four agree on one central truth: our crucified Lord overcame death and rose again after three days, as he had

promised (Luke 24:7). To us who believe, Christ’s victory over death granted salvation and the right to become children of God (John 1:12).

As we celebrate and commemorate the risen Lord this Easter, I am comforted to know that we are all heirs of God’s kingdom through his resurrection. We may come from different denominational backgrounds and see God’s work differently, but we are all united in our joy as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

Prayer: Dear loving God, thank you for the gift of salvation through your risen son Jesus Christ, whose resurrection we unite to celebrate.

Amen.

Friday, April 05, 2013

Page g 5

MSS puts on another succesful sports day cont’d. from page 2 CLASS I

KahleahCrichlow Blue 14 pts.

Crysell Henry Green 37 pts. 2012 There was no issue with the MSS Tug-o-war as Blue House made it two out of two and pulled away Green House to take the championship snatching it from Green House.

TUG-OF-WARWINNING HOUSE BLUE Record: Green 2012 Victor Ludorum: VictrixLudorum:

Jamal Halley Leslie Ogle MikilaGittens Crysell Henry

Red Blue Orange Green

18 pts.

22 pts 2012 20 pts.

37 pts 2012

Scores: Blue house long reign ends Red 543 Blue 492 Orange 444 Green 368 Record: Blue 2009, 2010. 2011 & 2012 Sports Day Final Results EVENTS BLUE GREEN ORANGE SPRINTS 58 45 20 107 MIDDLE DISTANCES 3 0 SKIPPING 14 16 9 6 BATON RELAY 46 12 14 SUBTOTAL 121 73 50 175 TOTAL 492 368 444 543

RED 7

8

54

Sports Day Final Results: Winner Red – 543; Blue House – 492, Orange, 444, Green – 362,

Page 6

Friday, April 05, 2013

Joint Primary Schools The school sports continue to attract large crowds at Little Bay as parents, guardians, friends all turn out to see the children compete.

Following are the results of the 2013 Joint Primary Sports held on March 20, 2013 March Pass - Brades Primary The overall winning school - Brades Primary – 141, followed by Lookout and St. Augustine, who fell way below their norm of being continual winners over the years.

Victor LudorumBrades Primary - Deshawn Wilkins - 29 VictrixLudorum Look Out Primary - Anisha Turner – 16 Champions are as follows: Champion Girl for Class 3 - Oriana Johnson - 14 Champion Boy for Class 3 - Deshawn Wilkins - 29 Champion Boy for

cont’d. on page 7

Friday, April 05, 2013

Page g 7

Sports day - huge crowds cont’d. from page 6 Class 1 - Sheldon James -8 Champion girl for Class 1 - Vonyéa Daley - 5 Class 2 Champion Boy - Sydney Mendes - 14 Champion Girl for Class 2 - Anisha Turner – 16 The tug-o-war was adjudicated a tie after each team, Lookout and Brades pulling away the other, Lookout pulling away Brades in the third go, was said to contravene the rules, which could not be ascertained at the time. Brades retained the title.

Page 8

Friday, April 05, 2013

Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. The term has ended with a bang. Alot of sports.

Congratulations to all of you who took part in your school sports. Enjoy your Easter vacation and be well rested for the new school term. The new term is more about the academics, do your best as the rewards would be great. Read a book.

Camot the camera had plans. For a very long time, he wanted to go on a trip to the Caribbean.

He first saw the word ‘Caribbean’ when one day Tom placed a brochure in Camot’s carrying case. Camot was curious. He had to take a peek. This is how he discovered the word. Camot thought that it was funny. ‘Carib-bean’ (Caribbeen) he said with a puzzled look on his face.

“Now, what would that be?”

The word which followed was even stranger. “is-lands” (Eez-lands), Carib-bean is-lands,” (Carib-been Eez-lands) he laughed. “Now who speaks like this?”

Camot had to find out the meaning of these funny words. So, he took up the brochure and looked in. Camot saw much more than he had expected. He was mesmerized. On the first page he saw a sun that was sunnier than he had ever seen, shining upon a beautiful beach. The water was a shimmering blue, and the sand glittered.

Camot shivered with delight. Of all the beautiful photos that he had taken, he had never seen anything so majestic.

“Aww’ exclaimed Camot. “Why is it that I did not know of such beauty?”

Then he turned the pages with even more curiosity. The cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush green forests went beyond his imagination.

He felt relaxed and pictured himself swimming in the cool pool below after a long day. Camot imagined how he would zoom his lenses to capture the beauty of that landscape.

With each page that Camot turned, there was something even more intriguing. He even practiced a little dance on his tripod one day, after viewing a picture where a group of boys and girls were strumming on some steel pans.

He had never heard that sound before but by the look of delight on their faces, Camot could tell that it was beautiful.

Now after going through all the pages, Camot noticed that above each page was a word. He concluded that each place had its own name.

“But where in the world would that be?” He wondered. He did not have a clue. Camot was determined to find out but even more determined to go there.

Then one day, while out with Tom, Camot jumped. Tom’s conversation with his lady friend

Pre-School Corner

Hello to you my preschool friends. This week we will look at COLOURING ALPHBET PICTURES. I hope you enjoy Letter Z

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

Camot the Camera

by Grethel Joseph

had sparked his interest. For once they were not talking about work, or shopping or that silly ceremony in the chapel. They were not even talking about getting new lenses for Camot for the ceremony. Camot had heard the word ‘Caribbean’ and to him it sounded much like Carib-bean (Carib-been). Camot was becoming excited. It was difficult to hear more of the conversation because of the noisy approaching train, but Camot felt that his chances of going to the place of his dreams were increasing.

Camot was sure that the lady was basking in the idea of going to a place called the Caribbean. She had mentioned something about going island hopping in the sunshine while wearing lovely colorful dresses. Well, this sounded much like some of what he had seen in the brochure and Camot was eager to return to his carrying case to look at the brochure again. Today he would take a fresh look at all these strange words and amazing pictures.

One day while relaxing between shots, a thought came to his mind.

“Island hopping, Island hopping!’ he exclaimed.

It was only at this point that Camot realized that it was the word.

“Dang, it is not Is- Lands (Eez-lands), it is Islands!”

He clicked. “Oh ho, Caribbean Islands! Now that makes sense. So we go hopping from island to island, hmm…”

Camot could not imagine this lady ‘island hopping’ in her high heels.

“Maybe she meant Island shopping” he laughed. Camot imagined himself doing anything in the Caribbean as long as he was surrounded by such abundant beauty. In his trance, pretending to be island hopping, Camot forgot that he was on his monopod and landed straight on his face. He broke his lens.

The days which followed were boring, especially without his lens. To make matters worse, no one mentioned his favorite words ‘Caribbean Islands’. It was all about that ceremony, the ring

and honeymoon. Camot did not know what that word honeymoon meant either but he did not care. He was only interested in the Caribbean Islands.

After a few weeks of cold, dreary weather, Camot went through the rituals of the ceremony.

He was given extra tasks as he had a brand new lens and he did it all, just because it was Tom’s big day. However, all that Camot could think of was the beauty of the Caribbean Islands. He had even memorized some of the islands’ names like An-gu-illa, An-ti-gu-a, Bahamas, Bar-ba-dos, Dominica, Grenada, Ja-ma-ica, and Trinidad.

He made special efforts to learn the names of all the others although he was really puzzled by the ‘St.’ before some of the names.

“Would it be S-T Lu-ci-a or ‘St’. Lu-ci-a?” he questioned himself. “English is truly a strange language” he laughed as he rolled his eyes upwards. He was glad that he could play the name game in his mind at the ceremony, just to pass the time away.

Camot’s greatest reward however came after the ceremony. As Tom hauled him away from the hands of his friend, Terry, and from the intense rice and petal throwing, Camot heard the words.

He heard the words that he was longing to hear: Caribbean islands. Tom had whispered these words to Terry as he waved him good-bye. The next thing Camot knew he was on his way to the airport with Tom and the lady friend.

As Camot entered his carrying case this time, he felt a pang of intense excitement. He knew where he was headed. Island hopping or island shopping, he didn’t care as long as it was in the Caribbean.

“New lens, sunshine, waterfalls, beaches, fresh breeze, exotic flora and fauna… yes,” thought Camot as he relaxed in his rest zone.

Camot quickly dosed off into a deep and peaceful sleep. His dreams were mostly of him lying on the beach in his sunglasses and sipping fruit cocktails with soft foamy waves playing at his feet. “Carrrrr” snored Camot.

About the author...

Grethel Joseph is from Dominica and has always enjoyed writing and sharing her writing with family and friends, be it poems, songs or stories.

She enjoys working with children and likes the challenge of making up new bedtime stories to tell her young daughter. She has studied Psychology but hopes to dedicate more time to writing for children in the future.

About the illustrator...

Destiny Maynard is 13 years old and from Barbados. Last year she attended the ArtSplash art camp in Barbados where she learned about pen and ink drawing and other media. Destiny has always loved drawing and has recently become interested in art inspired by Japanese anime.

Destiny attends Harrison College, studies piano and likes to write poetry.

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Your Health Corner from the Health Promotion Unit Sponsored by the Ministry of Health World Health Day - April 7, 2013

E v e r y y e a r Wo r l d Health Day is celebrated on April 7th to commemorate the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization [WHO] on this day in 1948. Each year a theme is selected for this observance that highlights a priority public health con-

cern across the world and this year’s theme is focused on hypertension.

ABOUT HYPERTENSION Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, has been estimated by the World Health Organization to cause 7.5 million deaths worldwide, equiva-

lent to 12.8% of all deaths recorded annually. Of serious concern is the fact that the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension rose from 600 million persons in 1980 to nearly one billion in 2008. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure. If left uncontrolled,

Summary Report of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly held on 21st, 27th & 28th March, 2013.

1.

The Budget Speech was delivered by the Premier and Minister of Finance and Economic Management on March 21st 2013.

2.

The First, Second and Third Readings of the following Bills took place: i.

‘Supplementary Appropriation (No. 3/ 2012) Bill 2013’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

21st March 2013 21st March 2013 28th March 2013

This Bill seeks to sanction certain payments from the consolidated and development funds in excess of the sums provided by law, for the services of the Government of Montserrat for the period ending on the thirty-first day of March 2013.

The Bill was passed with amendments, a list of which can be obtained from the Legislature Department. ii.

‘Appropriation Bill 2013’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

21st March 2013 28th March 2013 28th March 2013

This Bill seeks to provide for the appropriation of funds for the services of Montserrat for the year ending on 31st March 2014. It makes provision for the Minister of Finance to obtain advances for the purpose of meeting current requirements. Additionally it outlines the requirements for incurring additional expenditure, borrowing from any source other than specified and giving a loan guarantee.

The Bill was passed with no amendment.

3.

The Second and Third Readings of the following Bill took place: i.

‘Immigration (Amendment) Bill 2013’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

5th March 2013 28th March 2013 28th March 2013

The Bill was passed with no amendment. ii. ‘Revised Treaty of Basseterre Establishing the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Economic Union Bill 2013’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

5th March 2013 28th March 2013 28th March 2013

The Bill was passed with no amendment.

Bills that had their first readings can be read in their entirety at any of the following places: Legislature Department #1 Farara Plaza Brades Montserrat

Legal Department Valley View Brades Montserrat

Sgd. Judith C Baker CLERK OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

Public Library BBC Complex Brades Montserrat

Government of Montserrat Website

it can also lead to blindness, irregularities of the heartbeat and heart failure.

The risk of developing these complications is higher in the presence of other risk factors such as diabetes.

One out of every three adults suffers from high blood pressure and, unfortunately, one in every three adults with hypertension does not know that they have this condition. The proportion of persons affected increases with age, from 1 in 10 people in their 20s and 30s to 5 in 10 people in their 50s. In the WHO Region of the Americas, which includes the Caribbean, men have a higher prevalence of hypertension [39%] as compared to women [32%].

Fortunately, high blood pressure is both preventable and treatable. In some developed countries, prevention and treatment of this condition, together with other cardiovascular risk

The risk of developing high blood pressure can be reduced by: • reducing salt intake; • eating a balanced diet; • avoiding the harmful use of alcohol; • exercising regularly; • maintaining a healthy body weight; and • avoiding tobacco use. factors, has brought about a significant reduction in deaths due to heart disease.

While the ultimate goal of World Health Day 2013 is to reduce heart attacks and strokes, the specific objectives of this year’s campaign are: • to raise awareness of the causes and consequences of high blood pressure; • to provide information on how to prevent high blood pressure and its related complications; • to encourage adults to check their blood pressure and to follow the advice of their health care professionals; • to encourage self-

care to prevent high blood pressure; • to make blood pressure measurement accessible and affordable to all; and • to convince national and local authorities to create enabling environments for healthy behaviours.

PAHO encourages you to Know Your Numbers and to discuss prevention and treatment with your health care provider.

PAHO REPRESENTATION BARBADOS & THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES 28 MARCH, 2013

US official: Caribbean to become larger drug route SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — A top U.S. State Department official says the Caribbean will likely see a surge in drug trafficking activity by 2015 as operations shift to the tropics due to a crackdown in much of Latin America.

William Brownfield says he believes drug traffickers squeezed out of Mexico, Central America and South America will target the Caribbean because it is spacious and allows them to remain undercover and take advantage of weak law enforcement in certain countries.

Brownfield is assistant secretary of state for international narcotics and law enforcement.

He spoke to The Associated Press Wednesday during an official visit to Puerto

Rico.

Brownfield also said Congress recently approved $40 million to help boost security in the Caribbean as part of a federal program. Officials haven’t decided how the money will be spent.

Cocaine – recently found dropped-off in the exclusion zone of Montserrat

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Friday, April 05, 2013

Ping-Pong Budget... cont’d. from page 4 ness prospects.

DFIDis placed on the waiting deck and must assess this outstanding information when and if it arrives to secure ministerial approval for a later settlement. The agency in diplomatic language is urging the government of Montserrat to better plan and prepare for future such visits and to provide even the minimum requirements in the marriage that is to favour the people of Montserrat, in an endless quest to right its economy.

With revenue performance down for the last years, DFID rightfully expected the Meade’s government to enforce tax laws in an equitable manner with heightened efficiency in collecting arrears especially. Instead a well remunerated crony of Meade was separately employed to manage and to dance discriminatingly to the tune of the political directorate, rendering as grossly unfair the process of collection. There was no level playing field. Politically well connectedcitizens chuckled whilst lesser mortals frowned at the inbred inequities resident in official circles.

The message is very clear from the seat of governance: DFID’s obligation is paramount. British tax dollars are a sacred cow of sustenance for us to abuse without accounting. Tax compliance and expenditure restraint are not key parameters that impress the workings of this government in a serious way.

The Premier is wedded to the notion of economic growth indices as the sign that the economy is doing well. Pythagoras, the Greek mathematician maybe proud of the numbers game but will condemn the Premier for a purposeful departure from positing a real and meaningful impact of this deceptive measure of the economy.

Mr. Meade continues to exaggerate economic performances on Montserrat even in his second coming. Montserrat is a vulnerable economy. It is directly linked to the health of larger economies for its economic sustenance. Trading partners are experiencing sustained decline in economic fundamentals. He painted a woeful picture of conditions in Europe and the United States.

Regional sister territories are similarly placed with debt obligations as major bottlenecks. Out of that milieu

Montserrat, an island ravaged by natural forces for near two decades is on a path of economic growth, in the Premier’s estimate. Mr. Meade is using this illusion to confuse the populace into the belief that his leadership is building a sustainable economic future for Montserrat.

What does his estimated economic growth rate of 1.6% mean in real terms? Dear reader it is next to nothing in a miniscule economy as ours. It is a catastrophe. That figure would be tremendous for larger economies with zillion dollar nation incomes but still inadequate by conventional standards. This so-called

growth is built on investments in capital projects not related to production, as in the building of feeder roads to outlying agricultural areas, which lends to sustainability.

If even this figure is a fact it is not growth which is average based over a period of time.

Performance in a single year is different. Mr. Meade knows this very well but it is his nature to speak deceptively.

Growth would only be meaningful at levels enough to reduce the recent poverty estimates of the Caribbean Development Bank on Montserrat, trigger a decrease in the unemployment rate or lead to initiation of much needed pro-

ductivity to cut costs of doing business for example.

The Premier wants citizens to accept his word and roll along as if good times are in MCAP style. A major problem with this MCAP form of governance is that it does not distinguish between political affiliation and governance. Its operatives arrogantly slam the door shut on anybody who is not of the status quo. MCAP leadership fails to understand that there must be competition in the market place for ideas and responsible governance should not promote homogeneous thinking. Such stagnates every aspect of human development and Mr. Meade

is masterful in the practice of micro-management and exclusion.

Mr. Meade is hell bent on presenting an image of accomplishment in an election year. He would comfortably pad the truth to do so as he outspeaks his ministers, whom he berates as useless whilst enticing the populace to give him another term is office to complete the self-destruction of Montserrat.

The Premier is callous in understanding that he has had a credibility problem from his inception into politics. This has reduced the command and respect that a leader should have when he speaks and acts. There

is a huge gap between what he says and is. He creates doubt in accepting his utterances since his truth is garnished with economy at best of times.

Leaders of his ilk only can tarnish the mentality of citizens who largely follow the character of leadership.

The leadership giggles, people giggle in return whilst they become mendicants telling the leadership what it wants to hear in an unending cycle of unproductiveness.

The cycle keeps apace on our beloved isle.

Claude Gerald comments on social issues on Montserrat. Reach him at ceegee15@ hotmail.com

Small Business Development Centres to open across the region Barbados, Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export) in partnership with the International Trade Centre at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and the Organisation of American States (OAS) announced today that the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce will complete its four-part Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) Counsellor and Director Certificate Training in Kingston, Jamaica on March 18-19, 2013.

The programme will help Jamaica establish SBDCs to support business owners and entrepreneurs throughout the country.

The Project “Establishment of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) in the CARICOM Member States” (Caribbean SBDC Project) seeks to contribute to the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) support institutions and is based on the successful Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) model developed by the United States.

SBDCs, were established throughout the US by the federal government in partnership with state governments and universities and colleges, to assist entrepreneurs and business owners in establishing and growing their businesses through a free and confidential suite of advising services. Services include, but are not limited to, feasibility studies, business strategy, financial planning, marketing, production and professional networking. The Centers support new and existing

businesses.

Caribbean countries have long recognized the importance of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as major contributors to employment and growth and CARICOM estimates that micro and small enterprises account for more than 45% of jobs in the region. MSMEs, therefore, play a pivotal role in the economic stability of the region.

Jamaica will be the second country in the region to complete the training following Belize where the first SBDC was opened on October 31, 2012. Training in St. Lucia is currently underway and is due to be completed in May, 2013.

UTSA Associate Vice President of Economic Development Robert McKinley, and International Trade Center International Business Consultant Barbara Mooney have already completed 3 modules of the UTSA’s Counselor and Director Certificate Training. The final module will take place on March 18-19,2013 and will enable Jamaica to submit a proposal to open their own SBDC.

The SBDC model provides a structured framework to promote MSME competiveness and development that uses existing resources in the CARICOM region and as such is not an additional burden on limited resources, where available. Accordingly, it can provide the kind of success and sustainability that ensures a ROI on initial investment as well as continued returns in the form of increased taxed revenue by: (i) increased revenue streams; and, (ii) more firms coming under the formal tax structure.

Since 2009, the SBDC network in Mexico has developed 101 centers that support 32,000 small

businesses and has created and retained over 12,000 jobs. A similar story can be told by El Salvador, who started this process in 2009 and has now projected to have at least 12 centers operational by the end of 2011.

The rollout of the Caribbean SBDC Project will see the development of SBDCs in Belize, Jamaica, Barbados, Saint Lucia and Dominica.

About Caribbean Export Caribbean Export is a regional export development and trade and investment promotion organisation of the Forum of Caribbean States (CARIFORUM) currently executing the Regional Private Sector

Programme (RPSDP) funded by the European Union under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) Caribbean Export’s mission is to increase the competitiveness of Caribbean countries by providing quality export development and trade and investment promotion services through effective programme execution and strategic alliances.

More information about Caribbean Export can be found at www.carib-export.com. Contact: JoEllen Laryea, PR and Communications, Caribbean Export Development Agency, Tel: +1(246) 4360578, Fax: +1(246) 436-9999, Email: jlaryea@carib-export.com

Carlos Wharton, J Olveira Gomez and Anthony Bradshaw visited Montserrat on February 1, 2013 to discuss CED

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www.themontserratreporter.com

Easter Monday Relay...cont’d. from page 1 Press intervies one member of the men’s winning relay team

Winning male runner crosses the finsih line smashed the previous record, running from Lookout to the Salem Park in 50 min 15 seconds (50:15) beating 50:20 set by the police team previously. They beat the MSS boys, 52:25 who placed second, and Gunners, out of five teams.

But, it was the MSS teams that took big honours with the girls smashing the previous record of 44:36 by almost two minutes at 42:38 with 12-year-old MikilaGittens, running the toughest leg of the race. The women race began at the Government Headquarters, Brades, with the second leg, run

by MSS student Mikilia beginning at Cudjoe Head, down and up Fogarthy Hill to Hill Top. The MSS star runner must have been still celebrating her MSS sports VictrixLudorum spotlight having beaten her Primary school nemesis and all in sight at the school’s road race as well as all the long races at the sport meet on March 27.

She told TMR while speaking with the girls, Mikila said she slowed down once going up Fogarthy, confirming, “I ran down

Cudjoe Head and up Fogathty Hills, it was painful, but I feel so excited.”

KeneshaFarrell, did the third leg, Hill Top to picking up the extended lead by Mikila to St. Augustine school. “… I ran from the Hill Top to St. Augustine School, I did my best I don’t stop on the way because I knew we were going to get victory. it was downhill, I pushed myself so I can give the last person that was running a good lead so we can be in front,” she said. Meanwhile Janet Turner who did the first legfrom Government Headquarters up to Cudjoe Head, explained how she moved away leaving the rest the runners, after she passed Lyme complex sticking to their plan for the race and building the first lead in the race.

Then Samantha Williams who took the baton home and across the finish line told us, “It was quite interesting. We all practiced to win…we won the race, and we felt happy about what we did and we were very impressed in the time that we came in.” She added: “…we set a time limit again

and we are looking forward for next year to do a more excellent job at this running.”

But it is Samatha’s last year for MSS and captain of the girl’s team. “Definitely,” she responded as she was praised for being a good motivator for the team. “I was captain for three years and I mean I had to put my last year in because I’m graduating this year. I definitely put out my best even though my house didn’t turn out on top (at the school competition), but I rather we do our best than win most times, it’d be good to win but I mean doing your best is always good,” she exclaimed, admitting, “Yes I’m a good motivator and I’m happy about that.”

Conscious Vybz, consisting of Kavoy Jarrett, Jaison Peters, Delroy Campbell and Leon Williams, were favourites to win,breaking the record easily, according to Jaison. He told reporters: “Yeah, well the race was, you know, it was not that competitive, but I think we had a good race this morning

JOKES

Pulling teeth

seems there's yet another one coming!" cried the doctor.

The redneck scratched his head in bewilderment, and asked the doctor, "You reckon it might be the light that's attractin' 'em?

The lantern

A man left for work one Friday afternoon. But, being payday, instead of going home, he stayed out the entire weekend partying with the boys and spending his entire paycheck.

When he finally appeared at home, Sunday night, he was confronted by a very angry wife and was barraged for nearly two hours with a tirade befitting his actions. Finally his wife stopped the nagging and simply said to him.

"How would you like it if you didn't see me for two or three days?"

To which he replied. "That would be fine with me."

Monday went by and he didn't see his wife. Tuesday and Wednesday came and went with the same results. But on Thursday, the swelling went down just enough where he could see her a little out of the corner of his left eye.

Patient: How much to have this tooth pulled?

Dentist: $100.00.

Patient: $100.00 for just a few minutes work?

Dentist: Well, I can extract it very slowly if you like.

Deep In the back woods of Tennessee, a hillbilly's wife went into labor in the middle of the night, and the doctor was called out to assist in the delivery. Since there was no electricity, the doctor handed the father-to-be a lantern and said, "Here. You hold this high so I can see what I amdoing."

Soon, a baby boy was brought into the world.

Whoa there, said the doctor, "Don't be in such a rush to put that lantern down. I think there's another one coming."

Sure enough, within minutes he had delivered a baby girl.

"Hold that lantern up, don't set it down there's another one!" said the doctor.

Within a few minutes he had delivered a third baby.

"No, don't be in a hurry to put down that lantern, it

Payback

everybody turned out…I must say thanks to everyone, our sponsors Jermaine Wade, fans everybody turn out well and so it was a good race.””

He explained how he ran the second leg. “I had fire and school was right behind me, but I was not worrying about anything because - I put in hard work when I trained so I what I’m capable of doing. When the fire guy pass me at one time I was not worried, I was smiling because I know I got him right where I want him - Yeah I just had to shift gear because...” he said gleefully.

One teammate, Leon Williams said that he was not worried when he heard during the first leg that Conscious Vybz was in third position. “Once they are close to each other that’s all I want…” showing his confidence.

For the girls section, Jam Rock, placed 2nd, while Bad n Out took the third spot. Firecrackers was the other participating team.

In the men section, MSS light this year is going to be the development of an indoor facility at Brades, where, we’re going to have basketball and netball indoors for the first time and hopefully we will be able to open a facility by the end of the year,” he announced.

He expressed his satisfaction at the increase in teams participating in the event, and hoped for even better in the coming years noting out the performance of the school girls.

Raymond Cabey from the sports department directed the event. He announced the winners who received their prizes from Parliamentary Secretary Germaine Wade. He thanked took the second position, while everyone for their participation Gunners was the third placed including the sizeable crowd team. Other teams were Fire and that had turned out early for the Police in that order. event. He invited more people to Minister of Sports, Colin participate in the teams asking Riley spoke briefly announced that that registration be done early there will be some new sporting and exposing that they started facilities by year-end. “The sports with more teams but some had development continues. The high- dropped out.

New Sporting Developments