VOL. 6, NO. 7 • April 4, 2012 618 Strouds Lane, Pickering, ON L1V 4S9 • Tel: 905.831-4402 • Fax: 416.292.2943 • Email: [email protected] 360 Degree Financial’s Founder Facing Fraud Charges Toronto police recently announced fraud charg- was also licensed to sell life insurance and accident es against former 360 Degree Financial Services and sickness insurance by the Financial Services Founder and President Wilton Neale. The Finan- Commission of Ontario. cial Crimes Unit announced 10 counts of fraud over Neale incorporated 360 Degree Financial Services $5,000 and one count of fraud under $5,000 against Inc. on Feb. 2, 2005. He was the sole officer and di- Wilton Neale, 50, who headed two investment firms, rector of 360˚, which was also licensed by FSCO to 360 Degree Financial Services Inc. and Multiple sell insurance products. 360˚ was party to a distribu- Streams of Income Inc, and who has already been tion agreement with AGF Trust which enabled 360˚ sanctioned by both the Ontario Securities Commis- to apply on behalf of its customers to AGF Trust for sion and the Financial Services Commission of On- loans which were required to be invested in RSP eli- tario. gible products. FSCO issued a permanent cease and Police say they have been investigating allega- desist order against 360˚ on March 4, 2009 prohibit- tions of fraud involving the two firms since June of ing it from carrying on the business of insurance. last year. In unveiling the charges, they said that be- According to the Securities Commission Reports tween October 2007 and February 2010, Neale “con- during 2007 and 2008, 360˚ was experiencing finan- vinced victims to invest funds in his companies that cial difficulty. In an effort to raise capital for 360˚, they had obtained through loans, lines of credit and Neale through MSI solicited several investors to re-financing of their homes”, and that he took their purchase $584,500 of debentures issued by MSI. Al- funds but did not invest them as agreed. It claims Wilton Neale though some of the MSI debenture investors were he took in approximately $1.3 million during the pe- of securities; that he, MSI and 360˚ engaged in mis- told that their money would be applied to special riod. leading conduct; and, that they had acted contrary to projects of benefit to their community, the funds The allegations have not been proven. Neale is the public interest. raised were in fact commingled in the bank account scheduled to appear in court at College Park on May FSCO had also issued a permanent cease and de- of 360˚ and used by 360˚ in the ordinary course of its 8. sist order against both Neale and 360˚ in March 2009 business. None of the debentures were repaid at ma- Back in October 2010, the OSC settled its own prohibiting them from carrying on the business of turity or at any other time. Neale and MSI were not allegations against Neale and his two companies, insurance in Ontario. MSI was never registered with registered to trade or advise in securities. MSI was imposing an administrative penalty of $500,000, re- FSCO or the OSC. at no time registered to issue securities. The MSI quiring disgorgement of $265,179, costs of $10,000, Neale was licensed as a sales person of Keybase debenture securities were not offered pursuant to a and a 15-year trading ban and director and officer Financial Group Inc., a dealer registered in the cat- prospectus nor was there any prospectus exemption ban. In that proceeding, Neale acknowledged that egory of mutual funds dealer, from Feb. 18, 2006 to available to MSI for the described debenture financ- he and MSI engaged in an unauthorized distribution Jan. 18, 2007 when he was terminated for cause. He ing. REDjet Return Up In The Air! BRIDGETOWN, - All appears to be lost for Hutson revealed as much in an April 1 interview Barbados-based carrier REDjet. This comes as with the DAILY NATION, even though REDjet Barbados suspended the airline’s Air Operators’ director Ralph “Bizzy” Williams had sounded the Certificate (AOC) with effect March 20, four days carrier’s death knell 24 hours before. after the airline suspended all flights to its nine des- “We are working on a solution . . . to give the air- tinations, and Trinidad’s revocation of its licence to line a provisional licence under the act if they can fly to that country by the Trinidad and Tobago Civil have the airline up and running in 60 days,” Hutson Aviation Authority. According to reports, this chain said. “The licence will also be valid for a year.” of events sealed the airline’s fate, making it even Noting that any other “accommodation” would owned by the governments of Barbados, Antigua more unlikely for its return to the skies after a mere fall under the purview of the Prime Minister and and Barbuda, and St Vincent and the Grenadines – 10 months in the air. It also means that the airline’s Minister of Finance, Hutson pointed out that Gov- had suffered substantial losses in the last two years, 90 employees will have to seek other forms of em- ernment had been getting “licks” in its efforts to Hutson called on the airline to “look at some of the ployment. find a solution to the problems surrounding the things REDjet was doing that were good”. Directors of the airline, as well as Chief Execu- Four Seasons resort and said he did not know “if “LIAT should probably look at the experience of tive Officer, Mr. Ian Burns, have indicated that the anyone would like to see a big injection into RED- REDjet . . . for instance, there is a demand for spe- airline needs an $8 million injection to remain in jet without knowing what is likely to happen down cial pricing, holiday and family specials and so on. the skies. However, there are some who still hold the line”. “There’s also a lot of excess capacity on the air- the view that all is not lost for the airline, as the Meanwhile, the grounding of REDjet has also craft. LIAT’s load factor is about 60 per cent, while Guyana and Antiguan governments pledge their seen an increase in airfares by regional carrier REDjet’s is less than 50 per cent on average. continued support of the airline. LIAT. Hutson has also suggested that LIAT is do- “So LIAT needs to look at some of the things The Barbados Government is also working on ing no better than REDjet and should work some REDjet was doing . . . and adapt them into its a plan to get low-cost carrier REDjet back in the of the grounded low-cost carrier’s good points model. LIAT also has variable pricing, but doesn’t skies. Minister of International Transport George into its own model. Noting that LIAT – which is market it,” he told local reporters in an interview. PAGE 2 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012 Community The Ticket To Building A Successful Business

a team can be even more challenging, but tition. I never actually cared if there was as well as give back to the designing com- Chankar was undaunted by the challenges one. I just had to do MY job. If there was munity through posting educational tips on of leading his company by himself. a guy down the street or next door to me, it the company website for up and coming “I was never one to focus on the compe- didn’t matter. I just had to do what I had to designers. Akua Hinds

Starting a business is a big challenge, but the challenge of pursuing entrepreneur- ship did not intimidate Tony Chankar from blazing his own trail and launching a print and design company. The Trinidadian na- tive, who has lived in Canada since 1975, felt that he could contribute to his commu- nity through using his talents. “I started marketing, and then I went to U of T and did design. It was just a natural progression for me to get into the printing industry,” Chankar said. Do you remember what life and busi- ness were like before the Internet was as widely available as it is today? Finding in- formation and images back then was much more time consuming than now. Chankar founded his company, The Printing Press Inc., in the year 1991, a time when the word “Google” did not exist. “Our computers were a lot slower than they are today. That was all a challenge. The technology then was very different than today. In those days, the technology for designing wasn’t as good as it is today. We had no Internet then. So, we pretty much didn’t have an Internet to go to get images or to get resources as we have to- day,” Chankar explained. Starting a new business with a team can Tony Chankar be challenging in the initial stages, and launching a company without the help of do to get my job done,” Chankar said. “I wouldn’t want to say I’m a teacher of Chankar reached out to the Greater To- any kind, because, we focus on what we ronto Area’s Caribbean community to get do. But yes, we do provide information his business off the ground in the initial for upcoming designers as well so that they days, and he and his company continue to can learn how to do their jobs better and reach out to Canadian West Indians. make it easier for them to do business,” “They were pretty supportive. You have Chankar said. to give back just as well, and we’ve done a Chankar’s business primarily focuses lot of sponsorship over the years and a lot on entertainment events, but the company of community involvement, so, that defi- provides support for golf tournaments, of- nitely helped,” Chankar said. fers restaurant gift certificates, and other Chankar is also the founder and CEO of exciting products and services. Ticket Gateway, an online ticketing compa- “It is the up and coming company. We’ve ny that profiles online solutions for indoor been growing very rapidly. We opened in and outdoor events. Ticket Gateway is the Miami and in Trinidad, also, in February largest online ticketing company for the of this year. We do events in Miami, we West Indian community, and it sells tick- do events in Trinidad and also in Toronto,” ets to mainstream events as well. Chankar Chankar said. considers creating the online portal one of Entrepreneurship has served Chankar his company’s biggest accomplishments. well for over two decades and he recom- His company is currently the official tick- mends entrepreneurship to whoever is con- eting company for the Scotiabank Toronto sidering it. Caribbean Carnival, formerly known as “It definitely makes you a lot more in- Caribana. dependent. It makes you, unfortunately, “Last year was the first year they actual- more demanding, but definitely more inde- ly blocked off the parade. So we provided pendent from working for someone. But at all of the staffing and all of the ticketing the same time, no one is behind you to tell solutions for them. And again, this year, you what to do, so, you have to be self-mo- we will be doing the same. We provide all tivated and self-directed. And you have to the online ticketing for them. We also have pretty much make a lot of decisions all on the Wine & Spirit Festival that’s in down- your own. Other than working for some- town Toronto,” Chankar explained. one, the option is working for yourself, so, Chankar’s business has greatly expand- you don’t have someone telling you what ed since the days when he was the sole to do. You pretty much have to tell your- employee. self what to do.” “I was the only one on staff until we Despite his successes, Chankar acknowl- started to hire designers and more staffing. edges that the road to success in entrepre- And, eventually we bought equipment and neurship is about hard work and integrity. now today, we have pretty much a full in- “It was challenging. At the beginning house shop,” Chankar said. it is always tough, but when you stick to Technology has helped Chankar to ex- good customer service, delivering on time, pand his business and keep up demands your client base definitely follows you and to produce jobs faster and more efficiently it grows with you.” April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 3 Reflections With Chinny C aribbean J ewel

Chinny Canadian Caribbean musician Ray- In 1967 he defeated Trinidadian sprint mond “Chinny” Lee-Own, whose band ace, Roger Gibbon, the then Pan Ameri- Triple Play is a popular live music choice can, British Empire and Western Hemi- from many Community events, has re- sphere champion. Twice he out-sprinted leased his first-ever CD. Titled “Reflec- Fred Booker, the United Kingdom’s tions With Chinny”, the CD will be offi- reigning 4000-metre pursuit champion at cially launched at a Buffet Luncheon this the time, who was himself, a very aggres- coming Sunday, April 15. sive and physical bike rider. Tickets for the Luncheon, which of Guyanese will remember his victory course includes a Buffet Lunch as well as over Jim Rossi, the American sprint cham- a complimentary copy of the Reflections pion in 1967 in a grand finale 20,000-me- CD, are a very reasonable $20 per per- tre race on the old British Guyana Cricket son. The venue will be Pickering’s West Club ground, Thomas Lands. Shore Community Centre. The Centre is Having emigrated to Canada in the located at 1011 – 1015 Bayly Street, east early seventies, Chinny pursued his twin of Whites Road and west of Liverpool. loves of bike-riding and music. He com- The fun starts at 1:00 pm and goes until peted successfully on the Masters Cycling 6:00 pm. Circuit while functioning as guitarist and Regarded as an extraordinary sprinter leader of several community bands. He who represented Guyana from 1962 to eventually hung up his riding shoes sever- Devi Teluckdharry is the reigning Miss West Indian Canadian 2011. She is also a WI 1968 in cycling, Raymond Lee Own al years ago and has since concentrated on Canadian top model, www.wicanadian.com. She will be busy this summer attending grew up in Kitty where he lived with his his music. “Reflections with Chinny” is a various community events and spreading her positive vibe to young girls to follow in parents, two brothers and a sister. As a compilation CD which acknowledges a her footsteps. She believes dreams can come true because if you imagine it, you can sprinter, he went head-to-head with the Canadian musical career that has spanned achieve it and if you can dream it, you can become it. best in the Western Hemisphere. over thirty years. PAGE 4 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012 Eyes On ‘The Plan’

Most people know Williams says the Festival Tonya Lee Williams has just stopped losing mon- from her role as Dr. Ol- ey. The challenge now is for ivia Winters on the day- it to start making money so it time soap, The Young can give some to the emerg- and The Restless (Y & Beverly ing artists to help them create R). People familiar with their projects. her career ascent will Browne Then there’s her produc- perhaps remember her tion company, Wilbo Enter- launch as Miss Black Ontario. There was tainment. The company is specifically for also her cute and wholesome image with family-friendly, faith-based productions a milk moustache in the commercial that that she will either direct or star in. On encouraged Canadians to drink more milk that note, she encourages emerging artists for their health. who have projects they want to pitch to a Her artistic side has expanded from mod- producer to do research to ensure a good el, then actress to include writer, producer, fit before submitting an idea. In 2003 she and director, with many nominations and produced and hosted the Tonya Lee Wil- awards. And although she’s well known liams Gospel Jubilee for CBC. In 2004 she as the founder of ReelWorld Film Festival, directed the Vision TV pilot, Kink in My perhaps what’s not so well known is her in- Hair. She was also executive producer for tensity as an astute entrepreneur who heads the pilot. several businesses. Yet another venture for Ms. Williams is ReelWorld is Toronto’s annual five-day her Internet consulting company for actors Festival. It’s the outgrowth of Ms. Wil- and others in the entertainment industry. liams’ desire to provide opportunities for Although she gets offers to fly her to dif- Canadian artists of color. This year the ferent places for work, long-distance travel event runs April 11-15, with numerous film isn’t something she relishes. So she capi- showings, plus such added components as talizes on the electronic age by making this the Indie Film Lounge. It offers support to service available through her tonyaleewil- emerging actors, directors, producers and liams.com site. writers. There’s also the festival’s Vision- In a three-hour appointment, she helps ary Award, which recognizes an individual clients structure a plan to realistically that has been a long-time supporter of the achieve their dreams. She started out work- community. ing mostly with actors, but the entertain- The non-profit organization is a vehicle ment industry has many people outside of to help emerging artists get their talents in acting, and her understanding of the trade front of the public. Formed in 2001, Ms. enables her to give solid advice.

Tonya Lee Williams

The first step is to clearly define your become rich and famous. While that would goal. Then you want to be in the right envi- not be her model, Ms. Williams says she ronment, where there are lots of opportuni- respects the fact that those entertainers ties. When you get to that environment, she knew what they wanted, created a plan, says, you need to start off being prepared and achieved the success they wanted. to do whatever it takes to maintain your- Ms. Williams says even though many self. That could mean cleaning the shoes people in all aspects of the entertainment of a director. industry make more money than she does, For Ms. Williams, success in any ven- because of how she was raised, she has ture comes from having a defined business never felt poor, and doesn’t worry that model. “I believe you can access every- she will ever be poor. But interestingly, thing you want if you first shape it out. If she doesn’t put all her emphasis on mak- you have a strong business plan, you can ing a lot of money in her plans. Her busi- be a bad actor and succeed.” ness model has always incorporated three A good business model should keep you things: working as an actor, living with pri- within your desired parameters for your vacy and making money. She says all three time of life. That means, as you person- are important enough that if an assignment ally move from one ‘season’ to another, would drastically affect any one of them, you might want to adjust your parameters. she wouldn’t take it. The actress says it’s sometimes necessary Right from the start of her career she to restructure your plan to avoid ending up knew she wanted to live a normal life. “I working all day long just to “maintain sur- knew I wanted privacy. The idea that a vival”. bodyguard has to come with you; or that To clarify further, she explains, “I create you have to send people to shop for you…. a plan all the time. If I was starting my act- I’d be miserable.” ing career now, my business model would The entrepreneur says she believes that be very different from the model I followed when people end up taking drugs, it’s of- at the start of my career in the 1970s.” ten because they didn’t think out their plan. One reason is that there’s less filming “When people say ‘I want to be really fa- being done in Hollywood now than in the mous’, I tell them to seriously think about ‘70s. “I’d look for the places where more that.” filming is being done: Africa and Canada, Without going into great detail, it’s clear for example. In 2012, if I was young and Ms. Williams understands that there are black, I’d look to the African market.” consequences to every action. Some ac- Some entertainers create their business tions bring unwelcome penalties. In her models simply to be photographed and 35-year career, she has consciously made talked about continuously, and make a lot choices to fit her business models so she of money in the process. They set out to can arrive at her goals. April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 5 Caribbean Perspective New Products, Markets Focus Urged For Tourism Industry

The Caribbean tourism industry, which lighted the importance of the South es. However, he believes there must be a mechanism for has been faced with on-going challenges American market for CARICOM ensuring a certain degree of travel to those markets, with over the past decade and has implemented products and joint ventures. service at important times when people want to travel. value-added programs and used creativity Smith identified as a critical com- “I am convinced that if you have an airline that operates to sustain business, is being urged to con- Sandra Ann ponent of aggressively trying to lure on a purely commercial basis, some countries in the region sider new strategies to remain competi- more South American tourists, ad- will suffer badly. There needs to be a willingness to find tive. Baptiste equate and reliable flights into those a solution for the common benefit of the entire region,” The President of the Barbados-based markets. Some countries such as Bar- Smith advised me. Caribbean Development Bank, Dr. War- bados have direct flights to Brazil. St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Ralph ren Smith, who took over at the helm of the CDB almost a Dr. Smith says there is a need to shift focus because of Gonsalves, told me recently that Trinidad and Tobago’s year ago, believes product diversification is imperative for the continuing challenges in the U.S. and debt plagued Eu- Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) has an unfair competi- the key foreign exchange earning tourism sector. ropean markets. While the U.S. unemployment numbers tive edge over LIAT because its fuel is subsidised and also Smith told me that some of the region’s tourism destina- (8.2% in February) have been encouraging in recent times, accused the airline of “cherry picking” routes to the disad- tions need new attractions if they are to maintain the inter- “there is still a lot of uncertainty and it is difficult to pre- vantage of Vincentians. The recent meeting of CARICOM est of international visitors. dict sustained recovery”. leaders in Suriname addressed some of the regional trans- The CDB head also advocates an increase in linkages Canada has been one of the “bright spots” for Carib- portation issues in bilateral discussions. between the hospitality and agricultural sectors so that bean tourism. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) The CDB president observed that there is a lot of public famers can benefit from secure and reliable markets and reports that some countries such as Jamaica, Antigua and discussion on regional air transportation which key play- rural incomes can improve. Smith identified sustainability Barbuda and Curacao experienced double-digit increases ers like Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Antigua and of agricultural supplies and quality as key issues and un- in arrivals from Canada. Barbuda are no doubt aware of. A final resolution to this derscored that inventory managers in hotels need to “be on However, the CDB President is concerned that the cur- protracted issue, according to Smith, is possibly maintain- the ball” to meet the needs of guests. rent tightening of Canada’s fiscal position can have a nega- ing more than one airline. ”Competition is good and there To attract international visitors, who are being cautious tive impact on the region. Both the provincial Ontario and could be a sharing of markets.” about spending, the region’s hospitality industry has been Federal governments are facing massive deficits and have The CDB President also believes more attention needs enhancing product value by offering add ons such as mas- announced belt-tightening measures in their recent annual to be paid to the impact of crime on the region’s tourism sages and free breakfasts. budgets. industry and the root causes of escalating criminal activity The CDB President advocates broadening the source Smith, who is a former CEO of the regional airline LIAT, in some countries. “There is evidence to suggest that there markets for tourism, with particular emphasis on South also believes it is time regional airlift issues be resolved. is a strong correlation between the security of citizens and America, especially Brazil. While some inroads have been To succeed in finding a regional solution, in his view, re- economic growth,” the head of the Caribbean’s premier made in recent years, Smith is calling for a “systematic quires detailed collaboration “and a willingness to do so”. financial institution said. program” to develop the South American market. Only The aviation expert pointed to “some very thin markets” last month, Guyana’s President Donald Ramotar high- in the Eastern Caribbean that present economic challeng- PAGE 6 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012 Commentary The Value Of Advice According to a 2010 Ipsos Reid Study, Canadian House- communities, notably the Chinese, Jews and South Asians, The net result of which was far too often outcomes that holds that utilize the services of a Financial Advisor tend that the respective incidences of Financial Advisor use were far less favorable than they would have been had I to be much better off than those that don’t, regardless of would be much, much higher. sought professional advice. age or income. In some instances, particularly in the 55- So if there’s any degree of accuracy to my estimations, There were two barriers that prevented me from seeking 64 age bracket and the $55,000 - $69,000 annual income why is it that within the Caribbean community we seem to such advice. I now also suspect that these may indeed be range, the difference in accumulated net income is 5 and 6 shy away from utilizing the services of financial advisors? foremost amongst the reasons many of us still find our- times more respectively. Especially when there are such shining examples of those selves reluctant to utilize such services, even when it has The Decima Research Study that was conducted many amongst our very own who have excelled in that field. become crystal clear that we may be in dire need of good years ago had indicated that the average household size for At the very top of that list is of course Michael Lee financial planning advice. the Canadian Caribbean Community was four individuals. Chin, recently ranked as the 34th richest person in Canada The first of these is the fear of a lack of confidentiality. Most recent estimates of the actual size of the Commu- and whose impressive net worth has been largely due to We seem to think that discussing our affairs with someone nity suggest a membership of approximately 1.2 million his outstanding accomplishments in the Financial Services from within our community will result in everyone else individuals. Based on the four person per household Dec- industry. Before he ran into hot water with the Regula- “knowing our business”. The reality is that such fears are ima estimate therefore, that would suggest 300,000 as the tors, David Singh was another of our boys who has made completely unfounded, as all Licensed Financial Advisors number of households in our community. a name for himself in that field. As many readers would operate under terms that require complete confidentiality With these Study figures in mind and based on the know, Singh built his initial Investment Company Fortune and non-disclosure of the affairs of their clients. No pro- knowledge accumulated from the exposure to and involve- Financial from the ground up to its eventual selling price fessional Advisor worth their salt will ever run the risk of ment with the community during the now twenty-five plus of $88 million. losing their license, and ultimately their practice, as a re- years I have now lived in Canada, I would hazard three More recently, Barbadian–born Ralph Weekes has be- sult of having divulged your information to someone else. guesses about our beloved Canadian Caribbean peoples. come one of the country’s most successful Financial Plan- The second even more asinine reason is the fear of being The first of those would be that quite a large percentage ners. In the now thirty-plus years he’s been with Investors judged. We let our embarrassment over the current state of the estimated 300,000 Canadian Caribbean Community Group, Weekes has been a multiple winner of the Com- of our financial affairs, whatever it may be, prevent us households would have at least one member whose annual pany’s prestigious Top Producer of the Year Award. from seeking the very advice that might serve to improve earnings are within the $55,000 - $69,000 range. If not, Lee Chin, Singh and Weekes are just the tip of a very it significantly. Again, no Advisor worth weight will ever then collectively the total household income would argu- large iceberg. There are countless other very qualified judge you. Rather, the more challenging your situation, the ably be somewhere in close vicinity of that range, either financial services professionals within our community, greater should be their desire to provide the guidance and slightly below, above or spot on. ready and available to provide valued advice if and when advice you need that will help you to overcome the chal- The second guess would be that the majority of those called upon to do so. lenges you face. 300,000 households would also have at least one family As I have said to countless others since I myself joined With this in mind, let us all therefore take note of the member who falls within the 55-64 age bracket. Investors Group three years ago, some of the strategies I message from the results of the Ipsos Reid study by hence- My third and final guess is that the greater majority of have learnt that are commonly used by those who have forth seeking the type of financial advice that will add val- those 300,000 households do not currently have a Finan- successfully developed wealth for themselves and their ue to and ultimately improve our lives. If the Chinese and cial Advisor and, furthermore, have never found it fit to families, I wish I’d known twenty years ago. Unfortunate- South Asians are doing it, why shouldn’t we. use one. ly for me, I like so many of us was never wise enough to Here’s a fourth and final guess. I’d bet my last dollar utilize the services of a Financial Advisor, opting instead that if a comparison was to be made to similar households, to go it alone. Making decisions based on the knowledge within the same age and income categories, amongst other I had and options I thought were the only ones available. Tony Mc Where Are Businesses In Caribbean Business?

The countries of the Caribbean Commu- ernment on the restructuring of the CARI- The report recommends “regular small and informal meetings, nity and Common Market (CARICOM), COM Secretariat points out that the regional possibly over dinner. In our experience an informal arrangement with the exception of Guyana and Suri- private sector is “fragmented and divided” is the best way of building up relationships and getting busy ex- name, are each experiencing severe decline and many “key private sector players do not ecutives to open up on a freewheeling basis”. There is merit in in their economies. The small Leeward and even bother to get involved”. this idea provided it is done in an open and transparent manner. Windward Islands are worst affected, and Sir Ronald This situation is not good for the region or If not, it will lead to allegations of favouritism, discrimination so too is Barbados. for the private sector. It is not governments and marginalisation from others who are not invited. Governments are struggling to find ways Sanders that trade; it is businesses. Therefore, the The report also dismisses the notion of structured meetings, in which to spur economic activity that business community throughout the region including a Council of representatives of governments and the could produce growth. Meanwhile, unem- should have a keen interest in the meetings private sector. But such a Council is necessary and it would be ployment and poverty are growing. Unemployment is highest of CARICOM trade ministers and meetings of heads of govern- well attended if it comprised Heads of Government and lead- amongst the youth, making for an alarming situation. ment. The decisions they reach have a major impact on busi- ing business figures from across the region. Both groups would Presenting a lecture to students of the University of the West ness and on the capacity of businesses to contribute to economic want to be sure they are dealing with persons who can make and Indies recently, I received the greatest applause and nods of ap- growth and development. implement decisions. Of course, businessmen will cease to at- proval when I lamented the fact that there were now many gradu- Yet, there are no regular and structured meetings between tend meetings, whether it be small working dinners or a council, ates of the University who were unable to find jobs that corre- Caribbean governments and the Caribbean private sector. In as soon as they get the first inkling that nothing is done as a result spond to their level of qualifications, if they could find any jobs other words, governments reach decisions with little or no input of the discussions. at all. from the private sector which they all proclaim is “the engine of How to achieve a higher level of confidence between govern- Many Caribbean countries are like pressure cookers, waiting growth”. ments and the private sector is a challenge. Each group needs to explode. Only migration and remittances from family abroad It is telling that the member countries of the Organization for the other if the economies in which they operate – and indeed are easing the pressure. But, even these valves are not sufficient Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Eu- the Caribbean Single Market – are to be advanced so as to create to relieve discontent completely. ropean Union Commission regularly consult the private sector jobs, reduce poverty and to grow. In many cases, this has led to borrowing from local statutory of their countries recognizing fully that the rules to which they In 2009, as head of the Jamaican-based company, Grace Ken- bodies, such as national insurance and social security schemes, agree, or set, are meant to facilitate businesses on which their nedy, Douglas Orane told a regional private sector body: “The to fund capital projects and even to pay wages and salaries. Gov- economies depend for growth, employment and prosperity. CARICOM region needs to go through a process of self trans- ernments have also borrowed from local banks, causing them to The Landell Mills report states what should be obvious to all: formation”. The vibrant Jamaican private sector is well placed carry the greatest risk if there is a default. A few governments “The private sector’s views on what works and what does not and to propose a basic plan for the regional business community’s have also borrowed from the Government of the People’s Re- on where priorities lie would be invaluable”. For some reason, involvement in, and contribution to, the region’s economic prog- public of China and, while many of these loan agreements have it does not appear obvious to many CARICOM governments. ress. With the help of the new Jamaica government, such a plan not been made public but are said to be concessionary, they have They treat the private sector with suspicion. Only Barbados has could be a basis for wider regional discussion, refinement and added to the burden of national debt and will have to be repaid a system of consultations with the private sector in joint meetings adoption. in the future. with trade unions, but even these meetings are not attended by Businesses cannot be left out of business. Where is the Caribbean business community in all this? the “key private sector players”. As the report says, the officials They appear not to be involved at all. Indeed, in some CARI- who attend these meetings “are often not business people them- (The writer is a Consultant and former Caribbean diplomat) COM countries, the only involvement of the business commu- selves”. The latter point suggests that serious business people nity in the present difficulties is that some of them are seeking see little point in engaging governments which fail to act on the Responses and previous commentaries at: www.sirronald- greater concessions from governments. proposals they put forward. sanders.com The recent Landell Mills report to CARICOM Heads of Gov-

Publisher/Editor: Tony McWatt Editorial Consultant : Malcolm Cliffe Contributors: Mark Bannister, Sandra Ann Baptiste, Beverly Brown’ Duane DaSilva, Errol A. Gibbs, Akua Hinds, Sir Ronald Sanders, Legal: Oumarally and Baboolal Graphic Design: AM Creative 618 Strouds Lane, Pickering, ON L1V 4S9 • Tel: 905.831-4402 • Fax: 416.292.2943 • Email: [email protected] • www.caribbeangraphic.ca April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 7 Caribbean Destinations Delightful Dominica

Dominica, officially the Commonwealth of Dominica, is an island nation in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea, south-southeast of Guadeloupe and northwest of Martinique. Its size is 750 square kilometres (290 sq mi). The Com- monwealth of Dominica has an estimated population of 72,500. The capital is Ro- seau. Dominica has been nicknamed the “Na- ture Isle of the Caribbean” for its unspoiled natural beauty. Christopher Columbus named the island after the day of the week a densely populated market town of 20,000 sites from the calmer tropical fish-filled cies, as well as the exotic trees, vines and on which he spotted it, a Sunday (dominica where an assortment of modern buildings waters, to spectacular drops and a sub- vegetation. For a real thrill, disembark and in Latin), November 3, 1493. Its pre-Co- and pretty stone and Victorian houses line merged volcanic crater. The opportunities cross the dizzying Breakfast River Gorge lumbian name was “Wai‘tu kubuli”, which the streets, beneath the backdrop of Domi- for underwater discovery and photography on the pedestrian suspension bridge. The means “Tall is her body. nica’s lush green mountains. are unparalleled. The diving off Dominica ride lasts just over an hour, but the memo- In the hundred years after Columbus’s In addition to The Botanical Gardens, is as rich and varied as its topside attrac- ries will last a lifetime! landing, Dominica remained isolated, and Roseau’s popular attractions include The tions, from volcanic vents spewing bubbles Dominica’s many other attractions in- Old Market, Dominica Museum, and His- and hot water, to submerged volcanic cra- clude its culture and cuisine. Music and toric Walking Tour. The cobblestoned Old ters with dramatic vertical walls, and gen- dance are important facets of Dominica’s Market in Roseau was once a slave auc- tly sloping shelves of coral and sponge. culture. The annual independence celebra- tion, public meeting, and punishment area. The waters of Dominica are protected: tions show an outburst of traditional song It has now been converted to a craft and the southern end of the island is the Scotts and dance preceded since 1997 by weeks souvenir plaza with vendors of tropical Head Soufriere Marine Reserve, the north of Creole expressions such as “Creole in fruits, handicrafts, and “rasta essentials”. being the islands first marine reserve, the the Park” and the “World Creole Music This historical area is a very short walk Cabrits Marine Reserve. Festival”. from the Cruise Ship Terminal. As with all sites here, “the slower you Jazz ‘n Creole presented by Discover Dominica possesses the most pristine go, the more you will see”. The reefs are Dominica Authority (DDA) is held annu- wilderness in the Caribbean. It is largely granite-based, so there are comparatively ally on Pentecost Sunday. The event is a covered by rain forest and is home to the few spaces for nocturnal and hard-to-find means of attracting visitors from the neigh-

even more Caribs settled there after being driven from surrounding islands as Euro- pean powers entered the region. France formally ceded possession of Dominica to Great Britain in 1763. Britain then estab- lished a colony on the island in 1805. The emancipation of African slaves oc- curred throughout the British Empire in 1834, and, in 1838, Dominica became the first British Caribbean colony to have a world’s second-largest hot spring Boil- species to hide by day. This is what draws boring French islands as well as the wider legislature controlled by a black majority. ing Lake. Dominica has many waterfalls, photographers and marine creature watch- Caribbean to Dominica and serves as an In 1896, the United Kingdom reassumed springs, and rivers. The Calibishie area in es to the island. avenue for showcasing local Jazz artists on governmental control of Dominica, turning the country’s northeast has sandy beaches. Back on land, Dominica’s 300 miles the island, as well as foreign acts. it into a Crown colony. Half a century lat- Some plants and animals thought to be of trails are a true nature lover’s dream. er, from 1958 to 1962, Dominica became extinct on surrounding islands can still be Breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, rushing Dominican cuisine is similar to that of a province of the short-lived West Indies found in Dominica’s forests, the Sisserou streams, and volcanic wonders await hik- other Caribbean countries. Common main Federation. In 1978, Dominica became an parrot is Dominica’s national bird and is ers of every skill level. Where will your courses comprise meat (usually chicken, independent nation. indigenous to its mountain forests. Dominica trailhead take you? but can be goat, lamb, or beef) covered There are two small airports on the is- Dominica is known for its natural beauty Just 30 minutes from Roseau, visitors in sauce. The sauces are either spicy pep- land. The primary airport, Melville Hall and the variety of activities for the ad- can enjoy a truly unique rainforest experi- per sauces, or concoctions made from lo- Airport, is on the northeast coast and is venture-minded traveler, both above and ence. An aerial tramway will transport you cal fruit. Dining in Dominica is as much about a 45-minute drive from Portsmouth. below the sea. Whether you are splashing through nearly a mile of protected tropical about the ambiance as the cuisine. Many The second is Canefield Airport, about 15 under the sea scuba diving and snorkeling, montane, or high altitude rainforest, bor- restaurants serve up captivating panoramas minutes from Roseau on the southwest powering yourself across the top of the dering the Morne Trois Pitons National along with an eclectic menu of continental coast. Melville Hall Airport is suitable for sea in a kayak, cruising the sea on a whale Park. A narrow corridor through the trees and West Indian dishes. Dominican chefs limited use of commercial jets because of watching or deep sea fishing excursion, or allows close observation of the diverse are adept at preparing many European and runway length. sailing along in a schooner, there is some- plant and bird life, and the return journey American delicacies, with a West Indian There are two primary population cen- thing for everyone here. reveals stunning vistas of the Caribbean touch. tres: Roseau and Portsmouth. Dominica’s One of the top ten dive destinations in and nearby volcanic peaks. Guides will Dominica is a delight to all its visitors. capital of Roseau (pronounced “roze-o”) is the world, Dominica offers diverse dive point out many of the island’s 175 bird spe- PAGE 8 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012

Barbados Beat REDjet Hard Done By Governments 20 years Of Gospelfest BRIDGETOWN, - An international avi- Leading Edge blog published on its web- BRIDGETOWN, - Now in its plati- for the production was passed on to the ation think tank has suggested that Carib- site. num year, the Barbados Gospelfest 2012 Gospelfest Organizing Committee made bean governments must shoulder some of “Ultimately it seems REDjet’s optimism will celebrate 20 years of excellence with up of people from the Christian commu- the blame for REDjet’s demise. The Centre and ambition caved under the realities of a theme Touching Lives – Changing Na- nity who were involved in the planning for of Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA), the first operating in the Caribbean market . . . Now tions during an exciting week of powerful the first two years, and in 2003, Gospelfest agency outside the region to comment on it is back to business as usual in the Carib- ministry in song, dance, drama and much (Barbados) Inc. was incorporated to carry the airline’s grounding, said long delays in bean – protectionist governments keeping more. Speaking at an April 1 media launch on the management of the festival. granting the low-cost carrier permission to a tight grip on traffic rights in order to pro- at Divi Southwinds, producer of the event Also speaking at the launch was Minister start flying to several destinations last year tect their loss-making flag carriers.” Adrian Agard recalled that the event was of Tourism Richard Sealy who lauded the also hurt REDjet’s potential for profit and The Australia-based agency, which has established in 1993 by the then Barbados organizers for the positive production over might have contributed to its current finan- offices in Europe and Southeast Asia, Tourism Board when the Reverend Wes the last 20 years and pledged the ministry’s cial situation. pointed a finger at Trinidad and Tobago Hall was Minister of Tourism. continued support of the festival. The fes- “REDjet’s failure to execute a low-cost which it said was highly protective of He said that, from its inception, top in- tival runs from May 19 to 27 and will offer model in the Caribbean reflects the long- state-owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL) and ternational gospel artistes participated in several events which include HymnSpeak, standing realities of governments in the that government’s subsidizing of CAL’s the festival, including Yolanda Adams and Expressions Of Gospel and much more. region refusing to fully liberalise to al- fuel costs created “even more hurdles for Kirk Franklin. In 1995, the responsibility low any meaningful competition in the viable competition in the region”. market,” said the expert body in its CAPA Future In Doubt BRIDGETOWN, - Dr Donna Hunte- Scary Tax Loss Coxs future as Chief Executive Officer of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) BRIDGETOWN, - More than a dozen headquarters, the former Prime Minister appears to be in the balance. Her three- international business companies (IBCs) described the situation as scary and called year contract ends sometime next month, left Barbados over a two-year period, tak- for someone to take charge now. but the three key players involved are mum ing away a quarter of the island’s tax base, “This is the second largest economic on what happens next. With mere months says Opposition Leader Owen Arthur. Re- sector in Barbados. Its activity has gener- before this year’s festivals get under way, ferring to a report which he said was pre- ated 60 per cent of Government’s Corpora- there is no indication if the contract will pared by the state-owned Invest Barbados, tion Tax revenue [over $180 million]. Its be renewed; if Hunte-Cox has expressed Arthur revealed that over 12 IBCs had left existence has made possible the growth of an interest in continuing; if an interim in 2009 and 2010, at least 12 more were a Barbados middle class [and] many ac- CEO will oversee the events; or if the po- planning to move and another 12 might be counting houses, many business houses, sition will be advertised. Questioned ear- contemplating moving. many law firms depend upon this,” he lier, Minister of Culture Stephen Lashley Addressing an April 1 meeting at the stated. confirmed that the CEO’s contract expires Barbados Labour Party’s Roebuck Street in May, but he deflected other queries. Dr. Donna Hunte-Coxs Scarce Fish Forde Cries Foul BRIDGETOWN, - The sea off Consett Bay is dry; dry of flying fish. Fisherfolk at that St John location had nothing but tales of woe to relate during a recent visit by lo- cal reporters. K. B. Reynolds said he knew of people who went out and returned with fish numbering in the single digits. “No day boat has caught more than 500 fish for the season,” he said. One such unlucky fisherman was Rawle Harewood, who said he went out around 5 a.m. on April 2 and spent eight hours at sea for next to nothing. “I caught only one fly- Consett Bay Fisherman ing fish,” he said, showing his lone catch. went out to meet it, but the tale did not im- A boat came in while the Reporters were prove as the catch consisted of only eight speaking to the fishermen. Three people flying fish Keen Butch BRIDGETOWN, - Jamaican hotel mag- nate Gordon “Butch” Stewart has con- firmed that he had a definite interest in Cynthia Forde buying out Almond Beach Village in Hey- BRIDGETOWN, - An Opposition Housing And Neighbourhood Upgrading woods, St Peter, saying it could easily be a Member of Parliament has accused a Gov- Programme. happy marriage, but it was not a done deal. ernment minister of deliberately using his According to Forde, more than 200 Stewart’s disclosure comes as top brass of office to encourage his own constituents households in the village of Allen View Almond’s Trinidadian-based parent com- to sign up for a $6,000,000 Government- and surrounding districts could improve pany Neal & Massy meets with anxious funded programme, but leaving hundreds their lot from a grant that Government had shareholders at 10:30 this morning at the of other Barbadians out of the offer. Mem- earmarked for 600 households, but none St Peter hotel to discuss the future of its ber of Parliament for St Thomas Cynthia had been contacted, yet Todd had been cir- Gordon “Butch” Stewart three Barbados properties. Forde is accusing Minister of State in the culating across his constituency one-page A team from Stewart’s Sandals hotel “We love Barbados and we would love Prime Minister’s Office Patrick Todd of pamphlets signed by him as Minister of chain, including engineers, architects and to be in Barbados from a Sandals perspec- discriminating against poor people in her State in the Ministry of Housing, encour- hotel officials, was also due here today to tive,” said Stewart, the former owner of the parish whilst offering similarly impov- aging them to visit the National Hous- carry out an evaluation of the debt-bur- Paradise Hotel property, which is now the erished people from his constituency of ing Corporation and sign up for the pro- dened Heywoods property. site of the stalled Four Seasons Resort. Bridgetown a fast track to Government’s gramme. April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 9

June Session No Sympathy For REDjet ST. JOHN’S, - Plans to host the inau- The regional assembly is one of the gural session of the OECS Regional As- new organs established under the Revised sembly in Antigua on June 15 are moving Treaty, and will provide a forum to debate into high gear. That’s when OECS heads issues affecting the sub-region. The OECS of government are expected to convene the Assembly will comprise both Government inaugural session of the OECS Assembly and Opposition representatives from each on a date close to the anniversary of the member state, in numbers that reflect their signing of the Revised Treaty of Basseterre proportionate representation in their re- which established the OECS Economic spective Parliaments. Union. Stepping Down

ST. GEORGE’S, - The chairman of Gre- lowing a probe by the island’s Financial nada’s ruling party is stepping down from Intelligence Unit. Details are few, but in- the post as authorities investigate forgery vestigators allege he forged a senior offi- allegations against him. National Demo- cial’s signature while working as advisor cratic Congress spokesman Arley Gill an- to the sports minister. He was freed on nounced on April 2 that Kenrick Fullerton $7,400 bail after spending the weekend in is stepping aside as the party’s chairman jail. He had to surrender his travel docu- as he “concentrates on defending himself ments and is due back in court in June. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves against the charges”. Governing party deputy Stanford Simon Fullerton was charged with forgery fol- has assumed the role of acting chairman. KINGSTOWN, – Prime Minister Dr. cific reasons for the shutdown last month, Ralph Gonsalves says he has no sympa- but suggested that it was expecting state as- thy for the financial problems facing the sistance to continue operations and blamed Barbados-based low cost carrier, REDjet, “subsidised” competitors for its troubles. Fairer Pricing adding that he was never informed as the “REDjet is hopeful that we will be given Caribbean Community (CARICOM) lead a small part of the state assistance others prime minister on air transport of its opera- receive, as it will allow us to get our re- BASSETERRE, – The Cabinet of the improve transparency and accountability tions in the Caribbean. cently approved and exciting new routes Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has in government’s tax collection policy. “Nobody in any country in CARICOM established and profitable. Once this hap- expressed a resolve to engage suppliers of Mr. Carty in the post Cabinet Briefing wrote me or told me about it. None of pens, our shareholders and staff will do cooking gas to investigate whether a fairer noted that the importation, distribution the countries where REDjet was servic- their utmost to see that there is no return to pricing system, namely the Mont Belvieu and pricing of LPG or cooking gas in St. ing (informed me). None. The owners of high fares and business as usual,” the com- System instead of the Mean Caribbean Kitts and Nevis is governed by the Price REDjet did not come and see me and tell pany said in a statement. Posting, should be used as a benchmark of Goods Act, Cap. 18.09 of the laws of me what they were doing, so I interpreted But Gonsalves, who has renewed a call for the standardization of the pricing of the Federation. The Price of Goods Act is that as there was no interest in having the for a regional meeting on aviation, told cooking gas imported into the twin-island intended to give government reasonable CARICOM air transport spokesperson get CMC that he had no intention of getting Federation. control over the pricing and the supply of involved in their business,” Gonsalves told involved in the any action to save the air- Minister of Information, Sen. the Hon. certain basic and important commodities the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC). line, adding “let me say this, REDjet is pri- Nigel Carty, disclosed that at last week’s to protect consumers from the arbitrary On April 2, a senior Barbados govern- vately owned, Caribbean Airlines (CAL) is Cabinet Meeting it was agreed that the and market-driven pricing schemes regu- ment minister said that efforts were being owned by the governments of Trinidad and practice of offsetting taxes due by the sup- lated by the economic principles of supply made to have the low-cost carrier resume Tobago and Jamaica, LIAT is owned by the pliers against government transfers to the and demand. operations within a two month period. governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Bar- suppliers will be discontinued in order to Trinidad and Tobago had announced over bados and St Vincent and the Grenadines. the weekend that it had revoked the licenc- “The statement by REDjet that the mar- es granted to the carrier that last month ket is not on a level footing...they are quite suspended its services to various regional correct about that in one important respect Jazz For Less destinations. and that is to say that CAL continues to re- Billed as a low-cost, no-frills carrier ini- ceive substantial subsidies in fuel from the CASTRIES, - Bay Gardens Hotel and dinner at Trios Caribbean Fusion Restau- tially offering fares as low as US$9.99, the government of Trinidad and Tobago”. Bay Gardens Inn are offering a Saint Lu- rant, transfers to Pigeon Island for perfor- privately-owned airline did not give spe- cia Jazz Festival package with up to 30 per mances and a jazz festival souvenir. Jazz cent off regular room rates. Packages start festival tickets are extra. Performing this at $799 a couple for a five-night stay and year are Keri Hilson, Ziggy Marley, Gypsy are available for travel from April 31 to Kings and Lionel Ritchie. May 13 and include daily buffet breakfast,

PAGE 12 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012

$9 Million Generator Up In Flames

GEORGETOWN -, The Guyana Power confirmed that GPL worked the genera- GEORGETOWN - An early morn- firemen continued to douse the embers. and Light Inc. (GPL) last year paid a hefty tors to the maximum; therefore what it has ing April 1 fire at Regent and Wellington Meanwhile, Chief Fire Officer Marlon US$8.6M to rent 12 Caterpillar generating been paying is the full US$60,000 rental, Streets, Lacytown, Georgetown, razed one Gentle, who was one on the scene, said sets for a period of one year. It could have per month. of several stores housed in the Jaigobin that the Guyana Fire Service received the spent just US$2.2M more to buy them all. This means that rental cost for the 12 Rajkumar Building operated by several In- fire call at 05:35hrs and initially two fire The company said recently that renting generators amounted to some US$720,000 dian nationals, resulting in millions of dol- tenders and a tanker responded from the the generators was the only feasible op- for each month last year. lars in losses. The fire, unknown in origin, Central and Alberttown Fire Stations. tion, as opposed to buying them. In any given month, GPL loses a few ripped through Dilip’s Variety Store and He added that two more fire tenders, a The revelations were made when top days of work from the generators, to facili- scorched Raf’s Variety Store. The other tanker and the hydraulic platform joined GPL officials appeared before its regulator, tate “top-up maintenance.” stores, operated mostly by Indian nationals the firefighting efforts at the scene and the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). Further, the generators are subjected to and owned by a Guyanese, Smart Choice were successful in containing the blaze to It was during this public hearing, held scheduled general maintenance every two Store, were left water-soaked. one building. at Tower Hotel, that GPL officials were months. With the “top up maintenance” The affected stores, Dilip’s Variety Gentle stated that the fire started in the pressed into disclosing the rental costs. and the “scheduled maintenance” time it Store, Akash Variety Store, Prakash Dis- bottom flat of Dilip’s Variety Store, some- GPL rents the sets from Machinery Cor- means that every two months GPL does count Store, Manu’s Variety Store and where around the middle of the building poration of Guyana Limited (MACORP). not benefit from the usage of each of the Monty’s Variety Store, were housed in the at the corner of Regent and Wellington On average, GPL was reportedly paying generators for about one week. However, it same building located opposite the GUY- Streets. MACORP around US$60,000 monthly to still has to pay the full rental cost. OIL Gas Station. Smart Choice was water- He could not give the cause of the fire, rent the sets. The makers of the sets are retailing one soaked and employees were yesterday however, and said nothing could be ruled Each of the generating sets is actually for US$900,000 (G$180M), according to observed fetching items from the store as out until investigations are completed. rented for a base rental of US$43,000 ev- GPL officials. This means, it would cost ery month, whether they are used or not. only US$180,000 above the rental price. If they are used, that base rental only ca- GPL has said that it decided to rent against ters for 200 hours of work. Anything over purchasing, because it did not have up- the 200 hours automatically bumps up the front capital at hand to go ahead and pur- rental to US$60,000 monthly. GPL sources chase the Caterpillar sets. Green Cleared Of Charges GEORGETOWN, – Police Commis- sioner Henry Green is a happy man af- ter a High Court ruled in his favour on a Sexual Harassment Allegations rape charge. Green was accused of raping a 34-year-old woman at gunpoint on No- vember 22 last year in a hotel room after GEORGETOWN, - Several women have the matter where they allegedly made the she sought his assistance in dealing with an come forward claiming that they were al- sexual harassment complaints. Included unrelated police matter. legedly coerced or sexually harassed by a among the women was said to be a secre- According to reports, the court ruled senior official of the Guyana Revenue Au- tary. that Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) thority (GRA). Over the weekend, GRA officials said failed to make a realistic assessment of the Late last week, following complaints, that it is not the first time that the man has credibility of the complainant. The court management of GRA asked the embattled been mired in such complaints. The senior charged that the DPP’s decision to pros- Head of the Integrated Regional Tax Offic- official reportedly went to Berbice recently ecute was unlawful as legally admissible es to hand in his resignation. However, the where he was asked by a staff member to statements were used to inform the deci- official who has reportedly served almost approve a transfer for her. However, the of- sion to prosecute. In a 64-page statement, 35 years with that state-controlled agency ficer allegedly told the woman she had to the country’s Chief Justice, Ian Chang, said has refused and is said to be seeking legal “stump it up”… there were a number of inconsistencies in advice. The matter was taken to the highest fo- the woman’s statement, and stressed that Several women, about 14, met with rum at GRA. It was also alleged that there these needed to be present for a case to be Henry Green top GRA management, including Com- were complaints from Essequibo about the made. missioner General Khurshid Sattaur, on official. Organized Rampant Vandalism

Private Parts Gold Search GEORGETOWN, – The Guyana Tele- 2 are Lilliendaal, Church Street, Woolford phone & Telegraph (GT&T) has reported Avenue, Kara Kara Linden, Sophia, Hous- GEORGETOWN - A major shakeup According to the official from the asso- that telephone and other telecommunica- ton Public Road, and South Road. continues to be on at the Guyana Geology ciation, following numerous complaints, it tion services for thousands of its custom- The latter location which was vandalised and Mines Commission (GGMC) with a wrote to the Minister of Natural Resources ers, including several businesses in and four times during the period, has affected Mines Officer now in hot water for alleg- and the Environment seeking his interven- around the central Georgetown area, have commercial activities at Demerara and edly conducting illegal cavity searches on tion. This was after complaints were made been repeatedly disrupted over the past Citizens Banks. female passengers passing through a hin- to GGMC, but there were no immediate weeks as a result of what seems to be “or- GT&T is encouraging communities terland checkpoint. actions. ganised rampant vandalism”. The com- across Guyana to be vigilant in looking out An official of the recently launched Local reporters were told that the pany, in a release, said its records indicate for these vandals in an effort to help pro- Women Miners’ Association said that the GGMC officer has also been accused of more than 12 attacks over the past weeks, tect the equipment, so that vital telephone shocking searches on the women were al- asking miners for bribes and would even with the latest being April 1, with two re- services can be offered uninterrupted to its legedly done under the pretext of searching allegedly use force. The actions are totally ports of the vandalism of 200 and 300 pairs customers. for gold and precious stones at the Itaballi against the procedures of the Commission. of distribution cables at Independence and Noting that “there is so much more we Outpost, Region Seven. The area is re- It was noted that while the office of James Streets, Albouystown, and Meadow can and want to do, but we are prevented nowned for its mining activities. GGMC has authority to conduct random Brook/Durban Backlands. by wicked acts such as these,” the compa- Officials of the GGMC confirmed that searches on persons passing the check- Also, 200 pairs of cable in the Sophia ny said in excess of US$2M was expended the department has almost completed in- points, it would be totally inappropriate for area, which were vandalized on March 30 to effect repairs caused by vandalism dur- vestigations and that disciplinary actions men to conduct searches on women. and repaired over the weekend, was again ing 2011, and had pushed back installation will soon be taken against the officer. The At least one embarrassed female has the target of vandals. of 350 new lines and repairs to over 300 officer has since been placed on desk duty lodged complaints with the GGMC and the Among some areas where cables were faults. and half-pay. Women Miners Association. damaged between February 22 and March April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 13

Report Child Abuse 6 Months For Cop Bribe KINGSTON, - Minister of Youth and Culture Lisa Hanna, is appealing to mem- KINGSTON, - A businessman has been time in February, the businessman offered bers of the public to report suspected cases sentenced to six months at hard labour for a police sergeant $250,000 to dispose of a of child abuse to the relevant authorities. bribing a policeman. He is 40-year-old case against him. The police sergeant, who Hanna made the plea during a signing cer- Dick Hart of a Kingston 19 address, who is attached to the Fraud Squad, reported emony at the Ministry’s Trafalgar Road pleaded guilty to the charge of bribery the matter to the Anti Corruption Branch. offices in Kingston yesterday and warned when he appeared in the Corporate Area At a later date, a portion of the money was that refraining from reporting child abuse, Resident Magistrate’s Court on April 3. handed over to the policeman and Hart was incidents of crime against a child, is not Reports from the police are that some- subsequently charged. only illegal, but you can attract a penalty under the Child Care and Protection Act. Lisa Hanna “I believe it is time we start cracking make regular and strategic interventions in down on those persons who know of in- the public domain, to make people aware cidents and we penalise them for it,” she of what is actually taking place with re- Cement Workers On Strike said. gards to children, noting that the number Hanna said while the Child Develop- of reports of child abuse annually will KINGSTON, - Workers at Caribbean rejected the offer after almost two years of ment Agency (CDA) and the Office of the “boggle your mind”. Cement went on strike on April 3. The negotiations. He said while the employees Children’s Registry (OCR) have been do- “Let us not wait for the media to do it. workers were reportedly staging a sit-in are at work they have staged a sit in. ing tremendous work, “people can prevent Let us, as a Ministry, make them aware of at the company in protest of the decision Valentine said the workers will continue these things from actually taking place if what actually is taking place within the so- by the Board of Directors not to sanction a their industrial action, pending the outcome they would step up (and) make the requi- ciety and within the responsibilities of par- wage offer from the management. of an April 3 meeting with the company’s site reports”. enting and the abuses that are taking place Vice President of the National Workers management at the Labour Ministry. She charged the CDA and the OCR to with children,” she said. Union, Granville Valentine, said the board Grace Kennedy Growing Peppers KINGSTON, - Grace Kennedy says it pepper which is expected to be hotter and has embarked on a pepper growing project have a better flavour than the West Indian Crimes Trending Down at its Bernard Lodge property, which also Red, a variety of pepper grown commer- houses its 236,000 square foot distribution cially in Jamaica from seeds sourced out KINGSTON, - Police Commissioner centre, in order to meet demand while in- of Trinidad. Both varieties of peppers will Owen Ellington had reported that most creasing output of hot pepper sauces. be processed as pepper mash at GraceAgro major crimes, with the exception of mur- The conglomerate, which claims it is the Processors in Hounslow, St Elizabeth. der and simple larceny, have trended down. nation’s largest producer of pepper sauces, The company has also partnered with the Speaking at a press briefing at his office estimates that raw material input for its Correctional Services Production Com- on Old Hope Road in St Andrew, Elling- pepper-based products (hot pepper sauces pany to grow five acres of peppers at its ton said the crimes of shooting, robbery, and jerk seasoning) sourced from local Tamarind Farm facility located across the sexual offences, break ins and larceny have farmers amounts to some $64.4 million an- road from the Distribution Centre. The all decreased when compared to the same nually. The project will grow two variet- other crops that will be produced on the period last year. ies of peppers — Montpelier Red and West Distribution Centre farm are corn, papayas “We have seen increases in only two Indian Red. and pumpkins. categories of crime — murders, which Montpelier Red is a unique variety of increased by 12 per cent, that’s about 30 cases — and we have a slight increase in simple larceny.” Not Satisfied “We started the year with a spike in KINGSTON, - Despite making gains in spite the gains, the crime situation in the murders, in the first week of January we Police Comissioner Owen Ellington curbing the crime monster for the first three country is still grave. had close to 40 murders; the weeks of months of this year, the security forces are “We have been at pains to point out that March averaged under 15 murders, in fact nine years,” he said. “We have since then sending a signal that they do not intend to the crime and security situation created by we have completed March with the low- instituted some measures which have sig- rest on their laurels. criminal gangs, organised crime and cor- est murder count of any month in the last nificantly contained that situation.” The police have reported that, for the rupt entities in Jamaica are undermining month of March, murders have been the public confidence and investor confidence lowest for any month in the past nine years and are denying many Jamaicans the op- and significant reductions have been made portunity for gainful employment as busi- in reducing shootings, robberies, break ins, nesses contract or those with capital are Pit Bones larceny, rape and carnal abuse. In addition, hesitant to make investments and so we the cops report an increased seizure of have committed to reducing Jamaica’s firearms and ammunition while reporting murder rate to 12 per 100,000 in the popu- KINGSTON, - Police are conducting Town Division. that less persons have been cut down by lation by 2017,” he said. investigations to find out if several bones The find has since sparked concerns their bullets between January 1 and March Ellington said the security forces are found in a pit located along Corletts Road from residents in the area that the remains 31 when compared to the same period in committed to restoring public and investor in Spanish Town, St Catherine on April could be of a person who was dumped in 2011. confidence with an aim to grow the econ- 2 are human remains. “The bones were the area. The police have stayed away from However Police Commissioner Owen omy to provide citizens with the means to found, but more checks will have to be making any claims until the investigations Ellington said during a press conference create wealth to take care of their everyday made to determine if they were human re- were completed. at his Old Hope Road office today that de- needs. mains,” said a senior officer in the Spanish PAGE 14 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012

Best Days Still Ahead Scabies Scare PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad and Toba- of “compromise”. go’s “best days” are still ahead. And, in Persad-Bissessar had met earlier with order for the country to successfully move the leaders of the four other political par- forward, there must be a level of compro- ties forming the People’s Partnership coali- mise, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Biss- tion at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s. essar has said. Speaking at Queen’s Hall afterwards, Persad-Bissessar was delivering the Persad-Bissessar outlined the difficulties feature address at an April 2 ceremony to the government faced in terms of achiev- launch activities celebrating the country’s ing a consensus on the constitution fifty 50th independence anniversary at Queen’s years ago. Hall. The logo competition for the inde- The negotiation process of the constitu- pendence anniversary celebrations was tion was held in Queen’s Hall 50 years ago, won by Debbie Boos. Persad-Bissessar said. The then opposi- Hours after leaving a meeting of coali- tion walked out of those negotiations, she tion leaders with outstanding issues still added. Final agreement on the constitution left unresolved, Persad-Bissessar gave the was eventually made in London, England. crowd at Queen’s Hall a lesson on the topic

Extempo King Dies PORT-OF-SPAIN, – Reports of an out- Immigration Detention Centre Manager, break of scabies at the Immigration De- Winston Lopez, explained that there was a tention Centre is causing health officials spraying and fumigation exercise conduct- concern. And Minister of Health, Dr. Fuad ed at the centre which will be repeated in Khan, has urged acting Chief Medical Of- another three months. Scabies is an easily ficer Dr. Colin Furlonge to investigate the spread skin disease caused by a very small situation immediately. species of mite. Scabies is found world- Dr. Furlonge confirmed that there is a wide among people of all groups and ages. problem at the detention centre, with two It is spread by skin-to-skin contact with detainees being diagnosed with scabies, another person who has scabies and less while others have skin rashes which were often by sharing clothing or bedding. Sca- scabies. Noting that the situation appeared bies mites burrow into the skin and deposit to be contained, the acting Chief Medical their eggs, forming a burrow that looks Officer gave the assurance that the minis- like a pencil mark. Eggs mature in 21 days. try will continue to monitor the situation, The itchy rash is an allergic response to the and ensure that measures recommended mite. are implemented. Oil Find A Hoax PORT-Of-SPAIN-, Government’s trum- proven, b) the commercial viability of the peted announcement of an oil find is a hoax discovery has not yet been established, and “in the identical vein” to the assassination c) they are not sure about the mix of oil. plot announced by the Prime Minister last Imbert said it could cost Petrotrin as Sheldon John November, Opposition Leader Dr Keith much as $75 a barrel to produce this oil. Rowley has said. He said if the price it got was $75 a barrel, PORT-Of-SPAIN-, Six-time National tempo Monarch, which was won by Lady Backing up his claim was Diego Martin then there would be no profit. We don’t yet Extempo Monarch Sheldon John suc- Africa on Carnival Thursday. North East MP Colm Imbert who said the know if we would get any money from this cumbed to kidney failure around 5:30 p.m. Few were aware of his ailment as John “alleged discovery has all the distinguish- oil, he added. on April 1 at the Mount Hope Medical Sci- never allowed it to stop him from smiling ing features of a hoax. No two ways about Departure tax coming from Trinidad and ences Complex. John, who was 38 years and doing what he enjoyed the most, enter- it”. Tobago’s Piarco International Airport has old, had been battling kidney disease for taining. During Carnival he was the master Both MPs were speaking at a news con- doubled. Approval for the increase of the some time, but took a turn for the worse of ceremonies at the Kaiso House calypso ference at the Opposition Leader’s Port island’s departure tax by 100 per cent came shortly after Carnival. He even defended tent, where he served for several years. of Spain office, when they slammed the from the board of the Airport Authority of his title at the final of the National Ex- Government for taking the population up Trinidad and Tobago (AATT) on Febru- a “gum tree” with this “propaganda” of a ary 2, and will be added to airline tickets. “massive oil discovery”. Travelers leaving the twin-island state will Rowley said the discovery was not new now pay $200 in departure tax as opposed US Visa Fees Set To Increase since Petrotrin in 2007 had commissioned to $100. a study on the area of the find by Vetra According to reports, the island’s Min- PORT-OF-SPAIN, – Trinidadians apply- has said that the Bureau of Consular Af- Consultants. In 2011, four appraisal wells ister of Transport, Mr. Devant Majaraj, ing for non-immigrant visas to the United fairs is required by law to recover the cost were drilled, three confirmed the presence said the increase was justified as new se- States (US) will have to pay more for the of processing non-immigrant visas through of the reservoir and one was dry, he said. curity demands resulted in an increase in appointment, as of April 13, as the US en- the collection of visa application fees. He stressed, however, that a detailed de- the cost of operations. It is understood that forces a worldwide increase in the fee, as He said the increase is based on US law, velopment plan now had to be done to de- the airport’s security fees increased from the demand for visas increases. The US and requires that the Consular Offices re- termine the reserves and their commercial $17.9 million in 2010 to $18.3 million State Department recently posted the no- cover the cost of processing non-immi- viability. for the 2011 to 2012 financial year. This tification of the increased fees for the pro- grant visas through visa application fees. Rowley said the Prime Minister was resulted from a number of events, includ- cessing of visas, stating that although most The US Department of State said “For driven by political considerations to make ing the September 11, 2001 attack on the categories of non-immigrant visa process- a number of reasons, the current fees no the announcement. World Trade Centre in America which in- ing fees will increase, the fee for E-visas longer cover the actual cost of processing Imbert said it was obvious that the tech- creased security requirements at airports (treaty-traders and treaty-investors) and K non-immigrant visas. The non-immigrant nical people at Petrotrin were embarrassed worldwide. It is understood that the AATT visas (for fiancé(e)s of US citizens) will visa fee increase will support the addition by the statements of the politicians since is owed $154 million by tenants, including decrease.” and expansion of overseas facilities, as they (the technical people) have made Trinidad-based air carrier, Caribbean Air- Alexander McLaren, Public Affairs Of- well as additional staffing required to meet “very telling comments” such as: lines, which owes about $60 million. ficer at the US Embassy in Port of Spain, increased visa demand” said McLaren. a) the quantity of the oil has not been April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 15 Cariblicious: Escovitch Fish To Die For

The Chop House appetizer medley proved too small to accommodate the too busy gulping down my diet coke and requesting an in- “Where Good Food Is Only A Chop Away!” impressive quantities of the offerings. Served on a bed of stant refill to combat the experienced heat assault. I’d have 166 Bullock Street, Markham fresh vibrantly green lettuce, with broccoli and equally to admit, though, that it was indeed every bit as flavorful 647-208-9945 bright carrots as garnishes, the medley looked as good as as it was hot. it tasted. Having now been open for just over five months, Rose Ratings: Owner Phillip, who also doubles as Chop House’s main and Phillip’s aim is to provide Chop House’s patrons with Ambiance **** Chef, must have intended to use the appetizers as a sam- a delightful cross over dining experience. Good food in a Service **** pling of his undoubtedly outstanding culinary skills. The very comfortable environment is what they are aiming to Portions **** escovitched Bangamary was as good as anything the lady give to their customers. Food Quality **** fish sellers at Jamaica’s famous Hellshire Beach have ever Chop House is being billed as a Caribbean-styled Steak- Price *** offered. All that was missing for the association to have house, the menu offerings of which are a delightful mix of been made complete was a cold red Stripe Beer. Alas hav- the Caribbean’s best cuisine and some of the mainstream’s It may take a bit of getting to, located as it is in ing given up beer and spirits for Lent, that indulgence I most popular dishes. At the Chop House you will find Markham’s McCowan and Highway 7 area, but a meal at could not pursue. Wings and Sweet Sticky Bones Ribs rubbing shoulders as the Chop House is definitely worth the journey. Offering The Chop House’s jerk chicken is also outstanding. very tasty appetizers with Bangamary and jerk Chicken. a cross-over Mainstream to West Indian menu that many The seasoning on the pieces the Resident Love Goddess, Likewise, the rest of the menu features mainstream items other restaurants have promised yet failed to deliver, the on her very first of hopefully many more such outings as as lobster, every type of steak imaginable, from filet mi- Chop House is a delightful addition to the Caribbean res- my newly recruited Review sidekick, and I tried was just gnon to a sixteen ounce t-bone, Greek salads, chicken, taurant scene. right. The unique jerk seasoned taste was obvious yet not Catch of the Day fish and Philly steak sandwiches, as well Owners Phillip and Rose Hendricks, she of Guyanese overpowering, which sadly far too often happens at other as a variety of pastas. decent and him being Jamaican, have established a dining restaurants. On the Caribbean side, there’s a variety of curries: environment that compares very favorably with anything After the Appetizer medley, we were treated to two chicken, goat and shrimp, in addition to the usual staples else the community has to offer. Although you would nev- items from the Menus entrees, each representing the Ca- of fried rice and chow mein, cooked by the Chop House’s er guess so from its industrial like exterior, Chop House’s ribbean and Mainstream influences. The oxtail, cooked in Chinese Chef. There are also uniquely named items such interior ambiance is amongst the very best we have seen a lima bean sauce and served with mashed potatoes and as the Angry Jerk Wraps, Rasta Pasta, Groundation and to date. green beans, was another visual delight. As tasty as it was, Jerked Columbus. A well-stocked very modern bar is its first highly appeal- it was somewhat tempered missing the kick typically as- Sadly, time did not allow us the opportunity to try any ing visual attraction. A few short steps away is the very sociated with a real Jamaican oxtail. of those, as much as we would have liked to. But if the cozy dining area, with its side wall adorned with vividly According to Chef Phillip, that’s a deliberate ploy on tastiness of what we did try was anything to go by, I am attractive prints. The décor is, however, but a very pleasing his part so as to allow Chop House’s ever growing main- sure they would prove to be as excitingly delicious as they backdrop to what is definitely one of Chop House’s many stream clientele the opportunity to enjoy his oxtail without sound. strong points, the absolutely outstanding presentation of subjecting their taste buds to a heat assault. Chop House’s Good food in an attractive, comfortable, friendly atmo- each and every one of its offered dishes, certainly the ones delightful homemade pepper sauce is readily available to sphere is certainly an objective the Chop House has admi- we tried. increase the heat quotient of those so inclined. rably achieved in just its first five months of operations. Our first sampling was a delightful appetizer medley of The Resident Love Goddess was obviously one of those, Let not its mildly remote location prevent you from paying spicy shrimp, Bangamary fish seasoned escovitch style declaring herself an instant fan of the pepper sauce and Rose, Phillip and their key “Workman” helper Paul a visit. and chilli chicken. There were also a few pieces of jerk indicating that it was amongst the best she has ever tasted. The Chop House is, after all, “where good food is only a chicken on a side plate, as the serving dish used for the My reaction, in contrast, was not quite as enamoring, I was Chop away.” PAGE 16 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012 Home Affairs Practice Makes Perfect on how to spruce up your home’s exte- response units will appreciate large Simple measures to keep drains rior to attract potential buyers. Even if numbers, clearly seen from the road in throughout your house flowing freely: you have no intention of selling, their the event of an emergency. Use strainers in all your sinks suggestions can improve the appearance Spray paint your mailbox or replace it. Avoid pouring grease down a kitchen Bianca of your home - just for you! Spring is a Place an urn or large potted plant on drain great time to consider these ideas: the front porch. Use a hair trap in bathroom drains to Aziz Add accent pillows to any room. They Paint your doors and shutters. capture soap, skin oils, and other resi- not only add colour, but texture and Replace door handles. dues that can contribute to buildup in a warmth as well. By adding throw pil- Replace the outdoor lighting fixtures. drain The following practices, performed lows in a coordinating or contrast fab- A chair or bench on the front porch Periodically clean or replace the drain- habitually, will provide the means to get- ric to a couch chair, bench, or bed, you says “Welcome!” plug mechanism in your bathtub and ting ahead in life: can transform your room and add instant Apply driveway sealer. sinks warmth inexpensively! Pressure wash the home’s exterior. Once a week, pour a gallon of boiling Mortgage Free water down the kitchen drain to break up Turn the louvers of your window Upgrades That Can Pay You Back any grease Follow these simple tips to shave years blinds up to reflect much-needed ambi- Silver Cutlery Cleaner off your mortgage to help you become ent light onto the ceiling. Spring invites thoughts of renovations Here’s a technique that removes the mortgage-free faster. Sometimes, refreshing a room can be and home upgrades. In addition to the tarnish uniformly, so don’t use it with Make bi-weekly or weekly payments as easy as changing a light bulb. Bulbs long term benefits and savings, some antique or intricately patterned silver: instead of monthly like GE Reveal filter out yellow rays environmentally conscious upgrades can Put a piece of aluminum foil into a Make one lump sum payment each common in ordinary light bulbs, making put a little money back in your pocket plastic or glass container and lay the tar- year colours, fabric, walls, and artwork ap- too. Replacing an old 190 litre (50 gal- nished piece of silver on top. Sprinkle Increase mortgage payments by small pear richer, crisper, and more vivid. lon) water heater with a high efficiency with 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda. amounts Walk across the street and have a good condensing gas storage tank with a 94% Cover with about 2 quarts of boiling Round mortgage payments up look at your house. Where did your eyes efficiency rating can save $102 per year water. Soak until bubbles stop, rinse and go? They should be drawn to the front from combined savings in energy and polish with a soft cloth. Discard alu- Stage Your Home Like The Pros! door and entry way. water costs. minum. Get new house numbers. Emergency Free-flowing Drains Staging professionals offer many tips Criminal Charges: Sureties and Bail Basics If your friend, neighbour or relative Surety is someone who agrees to take person does not understand what act- that is accepted will be required to sign is arrested for a criminal offence, you responsibility for the accused person. ing as a surety entails. The following the bail order or recognisance. By sign- may be asked to act as a Surety. A It is my experience that the average lay is geared to provid- ing this document, the surety agrees to ing a brief overview pay a specific sum of the bail process of money in the and the obligation of event that the ac- a surety. cused person does When an accused Selwyn R. not comply with person is arrested for Baboolal the bail conditions. a criminal offence, Generally the the Criminal Code Surety is not re- stipulates that the quired to give a cash deposit, however police officer or officer in charge may in some instances the accused person release the person from custody. In maybe required to deposit money with such cases, the accused person can be the court to secure their release. released on them giving a promise to This is a serious commitment and a appear in court or entering into recog- surety’s obligation continues until the nisance. matter is completed. In the Greater If the arresting officer or officer in Toronto Area, a simple assault can take charge does not exercise his or her dis- over twelve months to get to trial. Fur- cretion to release the accused person, thermore, if the accused person breach- then the law requires that the person ar- es any of the terms of the bail, he or she rested be taken before a justice within can be charged with a breach of rec- 24 hours where a justice is available. ognisance which is essentially another The person arrested is entitled to have criminal charge. If the person is con- a bail hearing before the justice. Note, victed of breaching the recognisance, if an accused person is charged with a the surety may be required to pay the more serious offence such as murder money he or she initially promised. If or treason, then a different procedure after signing as a surety you decide that is involved and such person will not be you are not able to take responsibility entitled to a bail hearing before a jus- for the accused person, you can surren- tice. der your obligation. This will require At a bail hearing, sureties can be you attending the court and having the called to give evidence. The presid- court relieve you of your obligation. ing justice determines if the surety is acceptable. A surety is someone who The foregoing is intended for infor- agrees to take responsibility for the ac- mation purposes only and you should cused person. Generally a surety is re- consult a lawyer if you need legal rep- sponsible for the following: resentation or a legal opinion. ensuring that the accused person at- tends court as required; Selwyn R. Baboolal is a partner at ensuring that the accused abides by Oumarally Baboolal practicing in the any and all conditions of his release. area of litigation for the past 18 years. It is important to note that a surety April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 17 Women’s World - Fashion Simply Shoes And Pretty Purses

The big colour trend for 2012 spring/ Belt bags are one of the great big trends... rate. And don’t get hung up on size, every summer is mint green. The racks will be However, I am not talking ‘fanny packs’... manufacturer, every style, every pair, every full of fashions that are all done up in a soft Stick to the new small square flat belt bags shoe, and every foot is different. You might - so cute, and less weight to carry on that be a size 6.5, a 7 or an 8 depending on the shoulder. style. Feet need a rest this season with all the high, high heels. Don’t fret, flats and kit- ten heels are also big... The kitten heel is a good choice this spring. They are feminine, classic and comfortable.

The Wedge Heel ting a good fit. Listen to your feet, not the sales person. The “it will stretch” doesn’t No surprise here, wedge heels are going fly. If the shoe does not fit in the store, it to be hot again this spring and summer, won’t fit at home. Remember, our feet are and even though there are no limits when it three-dimensional, not two-dimensional, comes to heel heights, there will be plenty so the sizing chart may not always be accu- of lower-heeled wedges to choose from as well. whimsical version of mint green. Don’t worry if mint is not your colour, there are so many variations of green, you’re sure to find a complementary tone for your skin. No need to wear green from head to toe, why not just update your current wardrobe

If you do choose to go for some of those sky-high wedges, you may want to consider looking for styles that also have platform soles. Not only will they help to counter the height of the heels, but they’re also a top footwear trend themselves.

The Chunky High Heel by adding a beautiful pair of mint shoes or The heels just keep getting higher, and a fabulous purse. while lovers of spiky stilettos will always Other colour trends this spring, especial- have a lot of options, what’s nice for spring ly in handbags and shoes, is neon. Look 2012 is that there are loads of chunky high out for the bright blues, yellows, greens, heels to choose from as well. Not only are oranges, and hot pinks. The colour that jumps out at the head of the line for this spring when it comes to neon shades is orange! Let’s face it, there is no other colour that can make a loud fash- ion statement as bright orange. So need a new handbag or a great pair of shoes? Make it orange.

chunky heels generally more comfortable than thin high heels, they also add a dose of casual fun to your warm weather wardrobe.

The Right Fit

Everyone knows that when it comes to shoes, the biggest comfort factor is get- PAGE 18 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012 Sports Beat Bellille’s Superb Run 4th Fastest Top Trinidad and Tobago swimmer, ond in the consolation final of the men’s George Bovell III, signaled his complete 100m backstroke in 55.65 seconds, an Trinidad and Tobago’s Ja- recovery from a vehicular accident last Olympic Selection Time standard (OST) neil Bellille produced a su- year and his return to form when he reg- for the event. Daniel Orzechowski won perb run to strike gold in the istered the fourth fastest time in the world the consolation in 55.44. American Nick university/college women’s this year for the 50-metre freestyle on Thoman nabbed the gold in the A final in 400 metres hurdles final at the March 30 at the Indianapolis Grand Prix, 53.95. Texas Relays in Texas, USA, being held at the Indiana University Na- But on March 30, 28-year-old Bovell, on March 31. tatorium, Indiana, USA. Bovell, 2004 who represented Michigan Wolverines The South Plains College Olympic bronze medalist in the 200-me- Swim club headed by coach Mike Bot- student stopped the clock at tre individual medley, posted 21.89 sec- tom, was ahead of 2000 Olympic cham- 55.91 seconds to move into onds for the one-lap blue riband event to pion, Anthony Ervin, who is attempting a second spot on the 2012 world earn silver, just behind US Olympic gold comeback. Ervin got third in 22.24. The performance list. The clock- medalist and American champion Nathan previous night, Bovell had won the men’s ing is the second best of Bel- Adrian, whose 21.88-second clocking is 100m freestyle C-Final in 49.94 seconds, lille’s career, behind her 55.80 the third fastest time in 2012, according to his best in-season time, to finish ahead of PR (personal record). the latest world rankings issued by FINA, Nirmo Shapira (50.27) and Davis Tarwater Another T&T/South Plains the world governing body for the sport. (50.27). Adrian won the A-Final in 48.62 athlete, Sparkle McKnight, Australia’s James Magnusson (21.74) and ahead of Michael Phelps (48.74) and Dar- copped third spot in 57.42 Janeil Bellille France’s Florent Manaudou (21.86) pre- ian Townsend (49.14), while Ryan Locht seconds. cede Adrian and Bovell. topped the B-Final in 49.46. And on March 31, Bovell finished sec- First Appearance First Season Win For Matthews You just can’t keep Darren KINGSTON, - OLYMPIC 100m cham- wood Avenue offices. Matthews down. Even when pion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is set to Fraser-Pryce, who is expected to defend he falls, cycling’s boy wonder make her first appearance at the New her Olympic 100m title later this year at still finds a way to get to the York Diamond League meet to be held the Games in London, joins IAAF World top, having survived an early at the Icahn Stadium June 9, the Jamaica Championships 100m champion Yohan spill before outsprinting Rus- Observer has learnt. Louis Grant of Irie Blake as the top Jamaicans named so far. sell Elcock to win the April Jammedia Group and Global Athletics and Grant was part of the Team Jamaica Bickle 1 senior category of a 12-lap Marketing made the announcement at a group who were guests of the Exchange. Locust Hall circuit. It was recent Exchange at the Observer’s Beech- Matthews’ first win in just his second start this season, prov- ing the perfect rebound from a third-place showing on the Garrison course two weeks ago. And this was after the na- tional champ had to overcome Darren Matthews separate bouts of misfortune – on the same lap. Eastmond – threatened briefly on the last Having stormed to the front after the lap, though, cutting the gap within ten very first lap, Matthews lost CGI G4S seconds before almost reconnecting with Swift teammate Jaime Ramirez just three the leaders on the turn for home. How- kilometres later after his Colombian train- ever, Eastmond and company never fully ing partner’s bike stem broke. Matthews bridged the gap, and were forced to watch followed that up by slipping in a corner, from behind as Matthews and Elcock giving Elcock a slight 15-metre advan- sprinted to the line. For the fifth time in tage. But the 21-year-old ace hauled in his six starts, Elcock settled for second after AMOND Fugen rival on the next lap, and battling a cramp on the final stretch, while the two basically rode the rest of the race Eastmond finished third ahead of Fugen’s unchallenged after leading by a clear 64 Philip Clarke and two-time national champ seconds. Simon Clarke. The peloton – led by Rockets’ Jamol Record Smashed PORT-OF-SPAIN - Keshorn Walcott Jehue Gordon got revenge on Puerto Ri- saved his best for last at the Hasely Craw- can Eric Alejandro. Beaten by Alejandro ford Stadium in Port of Spain, producing a in the March 31 men’s 400 metres hurdles, huge 77.53 metres throw to smash his own Gordon turned the tables in the 110m Central American and Caribbean (CAC) hurdles. He won in 13.82 seconds, forc- junior (under-20) javelin record. Walcott ing Alejandro to settle for silver in 14.15. had no challengers for the Falcon Games Denny Gualbance completed the men’s men’s javelin title, the Toco athlete’s re- 800/1500 double when he won the met- cord-breaking throw giving him a huge ric mile in four minutes, 03.67 seconds. cushion on silver medalist Kerron Browne Guyana’s Cleveland Thomas finished sec- (62.71m). Akim Phillips (54.20m) claimed ond in 4:05.48, beating Shirvan Baboolal bronze. Walcott fouled on his first two at- (4:10.14) into third. tempts, but then threw 69.87m in round three to take the lead. After another foul Alika Morgan whipped her rivals in in the fourth round, the two-time Carifta the women’s 1500m. The Guyanese run- Games boys’ under-20 champion produced ner clocked 4:56.90, while second-placed a big 73.38m effort. Dawnel Collymore got home in 5:08.12. Not satisfied with that throw, Walcott, Zara Suite-Stewart (5:38.52) was third. who turned 19 on April 2, gave himself Barbadian Charles Greaves captured an early birthday gift, improving on the gold in the men’s long jump and triple 75.77m CAC junior standard he had estab- jump events. Greaves jumped 7.15m in the lished at the Pan American Games in Gua- long jump, and 14.63m in the triple jump. dalajara, Mexico last October. April 4, 2012 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC PAGE 19

Credits To Gibson Remembering Nebbo

played against Police with Nebbo and company. I was in the QC team as a me- dium-pacer and hence batted way down the order. If memory services me right, Tony it might even have been just before the roller! Anyways, as my luck would have McWatt it, Cameron was in his second spell, hav- ing already scythed through the top of Clement Nebblett, who represented our batting order. The very first ball he both his native country Guyana and his bowled to me started way outside my off adopted country Canada at cricket with stump, so I moved across to pad up with great distinction, died recently of a heart bat held aloft, in the full English train- attack. Nebbo, as he was fondly known, ing manual style. The next sound I heard was in St Vincent to witness the West was the deadly clatax of my leg stump, Indies Australia One Day Internation- mind you, being knocked over. Nebbo als at the time of his passing. He there- was the one who rushed to comfort me fore spent his last days doing what he’d in my acute embarrassment. loved best since his actual playing days My next memory of him was even were over, watching cricket. more harsh. Due to repairs that were be- Nebbo first played for Guyana in the ing done, our QC grounds were deemed B&H series in 68/69 as an opening batsman. unusable so the school had made ar- Ottis Gibson He will be remembered by most, though, rangements for our Inter House matches West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) pres- force in world cricket once more.” for his days as the middle-order anchor to be played on the Police Sports Club ident Julian Hunte has lauded head coach Gibson took over the Windies side in for a Police Sports Club team that was Grounds, which were right across the Ottis Gibson for his outstanding work with March 2010, replacing Australian John a powerhouse in Guyana’s Case Cup, street. As captain of Moulder House (G), the regional side, and believes the team has Dyson who had quit the previous year. In the country’s highest level of domestic I was batting in a House League Match. made huge strides under his watch. Hunte his first series, a five-match one-day affair cricket. A talented all-rounder, Nebbo Having already scored two fours in the said on April 1 that Gibson, who took over against Zimbabwe, West Indies won four also bowled slow medium cutters with over, I attempted to hit the last ball for at the helm of the team two years ago, had 4-1 before being clean swept by South Af- unerring accuracy. six, only to be caught on the boundary. made a crucial impact in several areas of rica later that year in another five-match Throughout the ‘70’s, Guyana’s radio When I’d taken off my pads in the Pa- the team’s development. one-day series. Gibson also lost his first listeners to BL Crombie’s nightly Sports villion, Nebbo, who had been sitting “Since the WICB entrusted Ottis with Test series, as West Indies went under 0-2 Roundup would have their ears filled watching the game, called me aside and the job of taking the West Indies team to the Proteas in a three-match rubber. Last with reports of Nebbo’s exploits on the gave me a stern lecture about respon- forward we have seen steady progress,” year, West Indies won two and lost four field of play. Standing 6ft 5inches tall, sibility and recklessness. That was the Hunte said. “He has done an excellent job of 10 Tests, and emerged victorious in 10 he was an imposing presence, on and off type of person he was. in lifting the fitness levels of the players, of 28 one-dayers, including reaching the the field. His was always a warm person- When I came to Canada in 1981 to at- the standard of play on the field, and con- quarter-finals of the World Cup. Over the ality however, so much so that whenever tend U of T and eventually joined Grace duct and deportment off the field. “These last few weeks, Gibson has led West In- he beat an opposing batsman with one Church Cricket Club, it was an absolute steps forward have not gone unnoticed and dies to a 2-2 draw with Australia in a five- of his legendary out swingers, his reac- delight for me to discover that Nebbo are some of the key building blocks as we match ODI series, while the regional side tion was almost always to smile with his was also a club member and had become strive to make West Indies cricket a major also split the two-match Twenty20 series. hands on his hips. one of the stars of the Club’s Premier As a batsman he was not a big hitter Division Team. Many years later, in the of the ball, preferring to frustrate oppos- mid nineties during my term as OCA ing bowlers with niggly ones, twos and Executive Director, he was still play- Narine Opts For IPL threes. Before you knew it the scorecard ing Premier Division Cricket for Grace would be reading 50, 60 or 70 against Church. He was always one of my big- his name. Yet you could hardly remem- gest supporters in that role, never afraid ber how he got there. to speak his mind about what needed to The Case Cup Police team Nebbo be done for Canadian Cricket to prog- played on was one of the strongest ever ress. in the illustrious history of Guyana’s He had a lot to say back then, so domestic cricket. Captained by the off- much of which was very wise based spinner William Jeffrey, it included the as his comments were on the outstand- likes of Mylton Pydanna as the wicket- ing knowledge he had acquired during keeper, Cameron and Johashen as the his many years of involvement with the opening bowlers and Leonard McRae game. Sadly, after my OCA stint ended as the middle-order batsman. All of as prematurely and unjustly as it did, I whom were good enough to represent lost contact with the Canadian Cricket Guyana at some point of time. Nebblett fraternity, Nebbo included. would later move from Police to GCC, My last memories of him would have Sunil Narine which back then was captained by Steve been during the Sahara Cup in the late Sunil Narine, the West Indies spinner hind the scenes but the West Indies coach, Camacho, the Guyanese and West Indies nineties. I was the Media Liaison one who was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders Otis Gibson, had admitted it would be dif- opening batsman. year, Officials Liaison the next and fi- for $700,000 in the January player auction, ficult to stop Narine playing in the IPL if My own first, now very fond memo- nally Liaison for the West Indies Team will be available for the entire duration of that was his preference. Narine, 23, has ries of Nebbo was as a young school- during the 1999 Series, which would the 2012 IPL, a franchise official has said. taken 34 first-class wickets at an average boy playing Northcothe Cricket for eventually turn out to be the last of Sa- The IPL overlaps with West Indies’ home of 11.88. Queen’s College. As one of the lower hara’s involvement. Nebbo was around Tests against Australia, and while Narine Narine first attracted international atten- ranked teams of the Northcothe Divi- at many of those matches, always greet- does not have a WICB contract and hasn’t tion during the 2011 Champions League sion, Queen’s also actually played in the ing you with his customary ear to ear played a Test yet, his excellent form in T20. Opposing batsmen found his assort- 40 Over Bristol Cup, which during the smile and ever willing to tell one of his the limited-overs series against Australia ment of offbreaks and ‘knuckle balls’ diffi- seventies was the highest level of lim- infamous cricket stories. could have resulted in a call-up. cult to pick and the most runs he conceded ited overs in the country. Invariably we Those are now my treasured memo- Venky Mysore, the Knight Riders chief in any game was 26 against New South would always meet Police, who more ries of Clem “Nebbo” Nebblett, as gen- executive, told ESPNcricinfo that Narine Wales. In the next match against the Su- often than not were the defending cham- tle a giant as there has ever been. One will be landing in Kolkata on April 3 and per Kings, he took 3 for 8, accounting for pions, in the first round and hence inevi- who will always be remembered most is free to play in the tournament. Narine Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni and M Vijay. tably would go no further. fondly by all those who were privi- and the WICB had been in discussions be- I’ll always remember the first time I leged to have known him. RIP Nebbo. PAGE 20 CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC April 4, 2012