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PRESORTED OCTOBER 2007 STANDARD ® U.S. POSTAGE PAID MIAMI, FL PERMIT NO. 7315 Tel: (305) 238-2868 1-800-605-7516 [email protected] [email protected] We cover your world Vol. 18 No. 11 Jamaica: 654-7282 THE MULTI AWARD-WINNING NEWS MAGAZINE Under a pol- icy change announced last month, New York State Democratic ~ Despite frenzied efforts to get passports Governor for United States citizens, and belated Eliot Spitzer protests by Caribbean tourism says he will issue driver’s organizations, the mandatory licenses to Caribbean and passport re-entry requirement other immigrants without went into effect this year. regard to immigration status, Did it help or hurt the page 2. lucrative flow of U.S. visitors to the Jamaica’s Caribbean?, page 15. Veronica Campbell overcame a serious leg injury to again prove she’s one of the best ever athletes from the Caribbean, shining at the recent IAAF World Championships of Athletics, page 11.

Congress- woman Yvette D. Man on a Clarke, who is backed by mission a strong Caribbean ~ Caribbean-born immigrant engineer Glenn Chin constituency heads a NASA team in New York, is urging that will deliver United States ‘Harmony’ to outer President George W. Bush to space and expand pull U.S. troops out of Iraq and send them back home to their international access families, page 19. there, page 2.

CALL CARIBBEAN TODAY DIRECT FROM JAMAICA 654-7282 INSIDE News ...... 2 Local ...... 14 Politics ...... 18 Sport ...... 22 Viewpoint ...... 9 Tourism/Travel ...... 15 Region ...... 20 Cargo & Freight ...... 23 Health ...... 13 Business ...... 17 Arts/Entertainment ...... 21 Feature ...... 25

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www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS Jamaican heads NASA team on space station expansion project GORDON WILLIAMS Oct. 23. Once installed at the 31,500 pounds. said. “The processes are pret- space station, “Harmony” will ty much the same. But the dif- hen the “Discovery” serve as a port for space pro- SIMPLE TASK ferences in hardware for each space shuttle heads grams from China and a com- It was built in Italy, with mission is unique. Each hard- Winto space this bined 13 European countries. fine-tuning at NASA’s ware is unique.” month it will carry a special “Harmony is a module Kennedy Space Center in So is his background. package ‘gift-wrapped’ by with six docking ports where Florida, where Chin and Chin is one of a handful of a Jamaican-born engineer modules can his team are based. He Caribbean nationals working and his team at National dock to make was involved in the early at the Kennedy Space Center, Aeronautics and Space the station design and construction of which employs some 18,000 Administration (NASA) in bigger,” “Harmony” as part of a spe- workers. He is proud of his the United States. explained the cial team, which offered heritage and credits his back- Glenn Chin is NASA mis- 43-year-old NASA insight into the pro- ground for much of his suc- sion manager charged with Chin, who ject’s progress. That required cess in the U.S. delivering a Node 2 module attended high him to travel to Torino “That’s huge for me,” he called “Harmony” that will schools in between 1998 and 2000. Other said. “As a Jamaican I’ve expand the docking area at the Jamaica and Chin work assignments temporarily The space shuttle “Discovery” will trans- always been a hard worker, International Space Station to the U.S. and took Chin away from the port “Harmony” to the International persistent. When I came to the accommodate other space pro- college at the “Harmony” project, but he Space Station. States I realized the opportu- grams. University of Miami, where would later return as mission nities here and went after it. Chin heads a multi-disci- he earned a degree in manager. His task is simple: of 16, four of which he has “I have enough savvy to plined team of 30 to 40 engi- mechanical engineering. get “Harmony” ready for seen through to their launch. know you can reach for your neers and technicians at “It’s like a six entrance launch and make sure it However, despite acknowl- dreams in this country.” NASA which is involved in hallway that you can add works once it gets into space. edging a familiarity with the For the married father of the testing, integration and rooms to…It’s actually the But Chin is confident it procedures required for the a son, his dreams extend to assembly processes that will gateway to the international will. Discovery’s transporta- task, Chin said the different outer space. make “Harmony” ready for partners.” tion of “Harmony” this types of “payload” he is launch inside “Discovery’s” That “hallway” or central month, also called “STS-120”, required to deliver in proper Gordon Williams is Caribbean cargo bay on the morning of building block is 24 feet long is not the only mission Chin working order keeps the chal- Today’s managing editor. and 15 feet wide. It weighs has been involved with at lenge interesting. NASA. He has been in charge “It’s pretty routine,” he ® N.Y. reverses driver’s license policy NEW YORK – Under a policy Vehicles (DMV) will accept a change announced on Sept. 21, current foreign passport as New York State Democratic proof of identity without also Governor Eliot Spitzer says he requiring a valid year-long visa will issue driver’s licenses to or other evidence of legal Caribbean and other immi- immigration. grants without regard to immi- Spitzer said the policy, gration status. which does not require legisla- The change reverses rules tive approval, will be phased adopted four years ago under in starting in December and the previous Republican will be tied to new anti-fraud administration of George E. measures. Those measures will Pataki. Spitzer include authentication of for- That administration had eign passports and the use of made it difficult, if not impos- not prove their legal status. photo comparison technology sible, for tens of thousands of Under the new rules to ensure that no driver has immigrants to obtain driver’s announced by Spitzer, the licenses because they could state’s Department of Motor (CONTINUED ON PAGE 4) Miami-Dade cop with Jamaican links wounded in shootout with suspect woman with strong flew in from Kingston, Jamaica assigned on Sept. 13 near an Jamaican ties was following the incident. Her apartment complex in Miami- Aamong four Miami- father Dennis Dalley said doc- Dade. The police said they Dade County police officers tors at Miami’s Ryder Trauma trailed Labeet, driving a red shot last month in the line of Center, Jackson Memorial Buick LaSabre, to his home duty after they tried to stop a Hospital, told him that his after they noticed he had man who was reportedly driv- daughter suffered a gunshot been driving fast. Once there, ing recklessly in South Florida. wound to her knee-cap area, Labeet reportedly fled and was Officer Jody Wright, 31, a which “literally wrecked a num- chased by the cops. Gunfire two-year veteran of the force, ber of bones.” She is expected was exchanged and the officers was hospitalized after being to undergo several surgeries, were shot. Labeet reportedly shot in the leg, reportedly by including reconstruction. took his girlfriend’s car and left Shawn Labeet, a 25-year-old Dalley said Wright was the area. Tips led police to the resident of Margate, who the saddened by the death of her condominium in Pembroke police later said they killed in friend and colleague Somohano. Pines where they said Labeet a shootout at a condominium However, he added that he was was killed in a shootout. complex in Pembroke Pines. grateful that she had survived According to Dalley, Jose Somohano, 37, who the shooting. Wright was never scared of the joined the Miami-Dade police “Thank God’s she’s alive,” possible dangers associated in 2003, died from shots the he told reporters. with her line of work. police said were fired by “(She said) ‘what is to be Labeet. Officers Tomas ENCOUNTER will be’,” Dalley explained. Tundidor, 37, and Christopher According to the police, “’I’m not afraid. I can’t go out Carlin, 34, were also wounded. the four officers were part of a there being afraid.’” Family members of Wright burglary surveillance detail ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS U.S. lists CARICOM countries Trinidadian man falsely accused of child rape sues N.Y. for $10M among major drug transit states NEW YORK – A Trinidadian there!” WASHINGTON – United “A country’s presence on major drug transit or illicit man falsely accused of raping Evelyn was cleaning the States President George W. the Majors List is not neces- drug-producing countries are an eight-year-old schoolgirl in halls of Public School 91 in the Bush has listed three Caribbean sarily an adverse reflection of placed on the list is the combi- Brooklyn has filed a $10 mil- Wingate section of Brooklyn community (CARICOM) its government’s counter-nar- nation of geographical, com- lion lawsuit against the City on Mar. 19, just as he had states among 20 worldwide as cotics efforts or level of coop- mercial, and economic factors of New York. done for nearly 20 years, when being major drug transit or illic- eration with the United that allow drugs to transit or Francis Evelyn, 58, a cus- cops dragged him out in hand- it drug-producing countries. be produced, despite the con- todian at a Brooklyn school cuffs. The girl claimed that for The list, which was sched- cerned government’s most where the girl said she was weeks he repeatedly molested uled to be submitted to the assiduous enforcement meas- raped, said five months after her in a basement bathroom. U.S. Congress, then published ures,” he added. his face was broadcast world- The school’s respected in the U.S. Federal Register, But while The Bahamas, wide as an accused child principal, Solomon Long, was identified The Bahamas, Haiti Haiti and Jamaica are on the rapist, he can’t sleep well nor suspended for failing to report and Jamaica among those “Majors List”, the U.S. presi- function properly. He said he other allegations by the girl, countries. dent said Burma and filed the lawsuit against the which he believed to be The Dominican Republic, Venezuela have failed city for ruining his life by unfounded. Long was later as well as Venezuela, which “demonstrably” during the believing a troubled child with reinstated. has close ties with some past year to “adhere to their a history of fabricating stories. CARICOM states, were also obligations under international “Before, I walked the JAILED listed. counter-narcotics agreements. street happy-go-lucky,” he Evelyn was paraded told reporters. before television cameras and Others on the Majors List Bush “However, the president are: Bolivia, Brazil, Burma, determined to maintain U.S. “Now, you see the eyes,” spent two days at Rikers Island Colombia, Ecuador, programs that aid Venezuela’s he added. “People you don’t jail before prosecutors rushed Guatemala, India, Laos, States,” Bush said in a White democratic institutions”, the know, approach you. to a judge to drop the charges. Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, House statement. statement said. “You don’t know what The child, who also Panama, Paraguay, and Peru. “One of the reasons that they’re coming with,” he con- wrongly accused her father of ® tinued. “It could be bad. I’m rape, had no signs of physical scared like hell of being out Caribbean countries named among (CONTINUED ON PAGE 5) least corrupt in the world Canada worried over influx BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, at 123 with a score of 2.6. accountability in public institu- of illegal Haitian immigrants CMC - A new survey by the Haiti, at 177 and a score of tions, but action from high scor- international watchdog institu- 1.6, was listed in the category of ing countries is just as impor- ONTARIO, CMC - Canadian They said the journey was first tion, Transparency International countries where corruption was tant, particularly in cracking authorities say they have been suggested by the Jerusalem (TI), has listed Barbados, St. perceived to be rampant. down on corruption activity in overwhelmed lately by scores of Haitian Community Center in Lucia and St. Vincent and the the private sector.” illegal Haitian and other immi- Naples, which promoted Grenadines as among the least POSITIVE STEPS TI said fighting corruption grants from the United States “Information required for corrupt countries in the world. The agency, whose surveys was a global issue which seeking asylum in Canada. Canadian Refugee Status In a survey of 180 coun- are heavily used by the interna- required global action, but said They said that the undocu- Application” on its website. tries, the global coalition listed tional community, credited developing countries needed to mented Canadian officials said that the countries at number 23, 24 Dominica, Suriname and Belize use aid money to strengthen immigrants over 200 illegal immigrants, and 30 respectively and said the as taking positive measures to their governance institutions and bring forms who also included Mexicans, low perception of corruption significantly improve their rat- develop string poverty reduction allegedly sold turned up in Windsor, after among public officials in these ings in the corruption index. It programs. to them, for crossing the border from islands was only bettered by said there was a clear correla- “Governments must intro- up to US$400 Detroit. Officials and refugee countries in the developed tion between poverty and cor- duce anti-money laundering meas- each, by a advocates said thousands more world were vibrant non govern- ruption with the divide in per- ures to eradicate safe havens for Haitian may be on their way. mental institutions kept a close ceived levels of corruption in stolen assets”, it stated. group in Eddie Francis, the mayor of watch on public officials. rich and poor countries remain- “Leading banking centers Florida with Francis Windsor, said he has faxed a let- Other Caribbean communi- ing as sharp as ever. should explore the develop- the under- ter to Canadian federal authori- ty (CARICOM) countries “Despite some gains, cor- ment of uniform expedited pro- standing that ties seeking financial help. ranked in the survey were ruption remains an enormous cedures for the identification, the documents would entitle “I empathize with the Dominica at number 36, with a drain on resources solely needed freezing and repatriation of the them to stay in Canada. challenges, but we don’t have score of 5.6 out of 10, followed for education, health and infra- proceeds of corruption”. Officials said the arrivals the ability to manage this. We by Suriname at number 72 with structure,” said Transparency The agency said its survey began early last month fueled have never seen anything like a score of 3.5, Grenada and International Chairman was based on 14 expert opinion by the notion that Canada this,” he added. Trinidad and Tobago at 79 and Huguette Labelle. surveys. would grant them asylum. a score of 3.4, Jamaica scoring “Low scoring countries ® 3.3 at position 84, Belize at 99 need to take these results seri- ® N.Y. reverses driver’s license policy... with a score of 3.0 and Guyana ously and act now to strengthen (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2) to the immigration agency that is more than one license. now part of the U.S. Homeland Security Department. ‘COMMON SENSE’ New York’s move goes Spitzer said the new poli- against the national trend. Many cy is a “common sense states, prodded by demands to change” that will improve crack down on identity fraud, traffic safety and lower insur- have added requirements that ance costs for all New Yorkers effectively prevent illegal immi- by ensuring that more immi- grants from obtaining driver’s grants have valid licenses and licenses. All but eight states now auto insurance. He said giving require drivers to prove legal more Caribbean and other status to obtain driver’s licenses, immigrants verifiable identifi- and those eight — Hawaii, cation will also enhance law Maine, Maryland, Michigan, enforcement by bringing peo- New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and ple out of the shadows. Washington — have come “The DMV is not the INS under pressure to add such a (Immigration and Naturalisation requirement. Service),” Spitzer said, alluding ®

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NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. Senate revives bill offering legal status Grenada-born ex-judge freed to Caribbean students from jail in child support case WASHINGTON – The United floor, Durbin described his States Senate last month measure as “narrowly tailored” NEW YORK, CMC – A for less. But I settled because revived a bill that would offer and said it would help resolve Grenadian-born former New I’m desperate.” legal status to Caribbean and “a very serious recruitment cri- York State Supreme Court Manhattan Supreme Court other students who have grad- sis” for the military. judge has been freed after Justice Joan Lobis had initially uated from high school here Supporters, who called the spending four months in jail for ordered Mason to pay $75,000 but are in the country illegally. measure the Dream Act, said it failing to pay $250,000 in back and commit to a payment plan The move was made after could pass the Senate because it child support. to leave jail. But Mason said he the first effort to advance a is intended to benefit young peo- Reynold Mason was freed could not raise even $30,000. piece of broad immigration ple who grow up in the U.S. and Sept. 19 after his ex-wife, Abrams Mason said she legislation failed in June. are illegal immigrants as a result Guyanese Tessa Abrams Mason, compromised because she Senator Richard J. Durbin, of decisions by their parents. agreed to accept $30,000. needed the money to buy the Illinois Democrat who is an In coordinated action, high “I am not making any school clothes, pay college author of the student measure, school and college students comment whatsoever,” Mason application fees for their eldest said that he would try to offer who support the Senate meas- Durbin told reporters outside daughter, and pay higher rent it as an amendment to the mili- ure staged “teach-ins” and vis- Manhattan Supreme Court. because they faced eviction. tary authorization bill under lation giving legal status to ille- ited lawmakers’ offices on Mason, who was kicked Mason said he had only made debate in the Senate. gal immigrants can pass Sept. 19 in Florida, Idaho, New off the bench in 2003 and had $68,000 in 2005 and 2006, com- The measure would pro- Congress this year, in light of York, Oregon and Wisconsin. subsequently worked as a pared to $136,700 annually vide a path to permanent legal the strong opposition from con- Twenty illegal immigrant real estate agent in Atlanta, when he sat on the bench, and status for illegal Caribbean stu- servative voters who defeated students from California went Georgia, had told Justice Joan that he was borrowing from dents who came to the U.S. the larger bill. to Washington to lobby for the Lobis that he was “dead relatives to get by. He said he before they were 16 years old, Opponents rejected that bill, dressed in white coats and broke” and could not come up declared bankruptcy in order graduated from high school in bill as an amnesty that would business suits to signify the with $250,000 in court-ordered, to survive, but Justice Lobis “good standing” and agreed to reward Caribbean immigrants medical and legal careers they delinquent child support pay- threw him in jail in May after serve in the military or attend who broke the law. hope to pursue. They held a ments to Abrams Mason for he failed to pay child support college for at least two years. news conference offering only their three children, ages 17, for four years. Both supporters and opponents ‘NARROWLY TAILORED’ their first names. 15, and nine. Abrams Mason, who man- of the measure said it would Speaking on the Senate “I don’t feel victory,” aged her ex-husband’s 1994 serve as a test on whether legis- ® Abrams Mason said. “I feel campaign to get him elected to tired.” Brooklyn Civil Court then the Supreme Court, was instru- LONG FIGHT mental in getting him kicked U.S. backs Jamaica’s new government She said she fought for off the bench when she submit- four years to get her ex-hus- ted evidence of alleged ethics nited States President appreciation of the Jamaican of Jamaica and the U.S. band to support their three violations to the New York George W. Bush has government and people for children. State Commission on Judicial renewed his country’s the longstanding positive rela- - Edited from JIS. Golding U “We shouldn’t get tired,” Conduct. commitment to strengthening tionship that both countries takes office and calls for new she said. “We shouldn’t settle relations with Jamaica. have shared and noted that his politics of cooperation in ® Last month, the president administration would work to Jamaica, while telephoned new Prime further improve U.S.-Jamaica pledging to intro- Minister Bruce Golding to cooperation at the bilateral duce measures to congratulate him on his elec- and multilateral levels. stamp out corrup- tion win and assured Golding Both leaders have com- tion and rising crime of the continuation of ongo- mitted to exploring new areas and drive economic ing programs of U.S. assis- of mutual interest where growth in the coun- tance and collaboration. cooperation will result in try, see page 18 Golding conveyed the greater levels of development and prosperity for the people ® Trinidadian man falsely accused of child rape...

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4) going to cut your throat! said, “some people said, assault, and initially iden- Don’t let me catch you in ‘Hey, you’re the guy who tified her alleged assailant the shower! We gonna raped the eight-year-old.’ I as bald and white. Evelyn shank you!” said, ‘I never raped is black. Evelyn said when he nobody!’” Evelyn said cops was finally freed, a cursing Evelyn said though he grilled him for hours, lying correction officer refused can return to work at the about fake DNA tests to to give back $84 cash he school, whenever he pass- try to force a confession, had handed over, then es near the building, he and offering to cut him a released him with a $4 trembles. He said he has short prison term instead MetroCard to take the been living off vacation of life if he admitted guilt. subway home. time and 57 sick days. Thrown into a jail cell “I had two more years with seasoned criminals, STUNNED to retire,” he said. Evelyn said he stood with He said when he “After you work all his back to a wall all night, returned to Brooklyn, he that time, all that sacrifice, praying, as fellow inmates saw his face displayed on it comes to this?” Evelyn greeted each other and front pages of newspapers. said. unabashedly used an open “I was stunned,” he “I want to get over toilet. said, disclosing that he this,” he added. “I don’t He said he was strip- walked for miles with his want those charges just to searched and left to sleep head under his shirt. be sealed. I want it to be on a bare mattress in a “I didn’t want any- washed away. I want an filthy cell wearing only a body to recognize me,” apology. Come on. Clear “Pampers”, and paraded said Evelyn. my name!” past inmates who “I can’t go out on the screamed, “Hey, Pops! street without having to ® You raped my sister! I’m answer questions,” he

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www.caribbeantoday.com NEWS U.S. considers compensation Préval credits peacekeepers for Haiti’s stability UNITED NATIONS, CMC - extension of MINUSTAH, Préval said Haitians con- for Antigua in gaming dispute President René Préval has Préval said this move would tinue to see the presence of credited the United Nations be “quite timely” and served foreign armed forces on their ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – alternative market access con- Stabilization Mission in his as a reminder that gains in soil as a “wound with respect The United States is consider- cessions with the U.S. if this country (MINUSTAH) with to their national sovereignty,” ing providing a compensation offer is rejected by Antigua. promoting stability on his noting, however, that “in package to Antigua and “Antigua is still within its impoverished Caribbean com- practical terms, this is the Barbuda and other countries rights under the World Trade munity (CARICOM) nation. only formula that is realistic following Washington’s deci- Organization Dispute Addressing the United and available at this time that sion to withdraw its gaming Settlement Understanding to Nations General Assembly enables Haitians to restore services commitment under pursue compensation or trade late last month, Préval, noted freedom and live in peace.” the General Agreement on sanctions given that, technical- that Haiti is “all too frequent- He said it was up to the Tariffs and Services (GATS). ly speaking, the U.S. is still not ly on the U.N.’s agenda Haitian people to benefit A statement by the in compliance with the WTO because of its problems of from the “period of calm, Barbados-based Caribbean ruling in favor of Antigua and insecurity and political unrest. regroup and reconsider the Regional Negotiating Machinery will continue to be in that state “I am speaking on behalf future with a positive vision, (CRNM) said that Sept. 22 had until compensation and or of a country that somewhat while the country strengthens been the deadline for completion arbitration is settled regarding hasty analysis describes as a its cohesion, modernizes its of compensation negotiations. their removal of their GATS ‘failed state’,” he said, noting judicial system and improves “Failing these negotiations commitments relating to online that “Haiti is on the way to its ability to take action in with the eight countries seek- gaming”. bidding farewell to that state Préval favor of economic recovery ing compensation – namely slowly, patiently yet with and sustainable develop- Japan, the European Union, DEMAND determination.” Haiti, including victory over ment.” Antigua, Costa Rica, India, Antigua has already indicat- Préval said organized insecurity, the holding of Australia, Macao and Canada ed that it was seeking millions of armed gangs that had democratic elections, ® – by the deadline, the matter dollars in compensation and it wreaked violence on the improved governance and a would have to be referred to has also expressed a desire to population have been disman- strengthened judicial system, arbitration. base sanctions on the suspension tled and there were no longer were made possible “in large “The package offer is not of TRIPS obligations and com- “no-go” zones that were too part due to the efforts under- likely to surpass the U.S. Doha munications services obligations dangerous to enter. He said taken by the UN force in the Round revised services offer. under the GATS. Street Address: inflation had dipped below 10 country.” While this package may not be However, in recent devel- 9020 SW 152nd Street, Miami, FL 33157 percent, while gross domestic The Haitian president considered generous compen- opments, the Motion Picture Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6010 sation, some countries may be Association of America product (GDP) is up after 10 said though his administration Miami, FL 33116-6010. more inclined to work with the (MPAA) has called upon the years of decline. is “young, inexperienced and Telephone: (305) 238-2868 offer as a starting point for U.S. government to suspend The Haitian leader said ill-equipped,” it has been (305) 253-6029 • Fax: (305) 252-7843 negotiations especially if it is preferences offered to Antigua peace is an “essential condi- “courageous and determined Toll-Free Fax: 1-866-290-4550 ‘sweetened’ by other market under the U.S.–Caribbean tion” that enables the coun- in the battle against insecuri- 1-800-605-7516 • Jamaica: 654-7282 access opportunities”, the Trade Partnership Agreement try’s political forces to “put an ty.” He lauded MINUSTAH E-mail: [email protected] CRNM stated. (CBTPA) and the Caribbean end to their endless quarrels.” for providing the necessary Send ads to: [email protected] It noted that in the case of Basin Economic Recovery Act support in restoring security Vol. 18, Number 11 • OCT. 2007 Antigua “with its limited (CBERA), which together are ‘TIMELY’ MOVE to the impoverished French- In anticipating a one-year speaking Caribbean country. export range, there may be lit- PETER A WEBLEY tle room for negotiation of (CONTINUED ON PAGE 7) Publisher Rapid decline in Caribbean GORDON WILLIAMS Poverty, hunger keep Managing Editor child deaths ~ UNICEF SABRINA FENNELL Caribbean behind ~ U.N. Graphic Artist UNITED NATIONS – The report on the Millennium UNITED NATIONS – The to achieve the child mortality United Nations Children Millennium Development DOROTHY CHIN United Nations says while the Development Goals (MDGs). Account Executive Caribbean and Latin America The MDGs are part of a Educational Fund (UNICEF) Goal, with 27 deaths on aver- have made some progress in Millennium Declaration, says new figures show solid age for every 1,000 live births, SUNDAY SELLERS the global fight in reducing signed in 2000 by leaders of progress on child survival, compared to 55 per thousand Account Executive poverty, the region still falls 189 countries, which set 2015 including a decline in the in 1990”, the statement said. behind much of the world in as the year for achieving signif- annual number of under-five deaths, in the Caribbean and PROGRESS JULISSA RAMOS this pursuit. icant advances in, among other Accounting Manager Latin America. UNICEF attributed much The U.N. said in a state- things, primary education, gen- Caribbean Media Source ment that besides sub-Saharan der equality, child mortality UNICEF said the decline of the progress to “wide- Media Representatives Africa, inequality remains rates and environmental sus- comes amid a record global spread adoption of basic highest in the Caribbean and tainability. low in which child deaths have health interventions, such as TOM JONAS fallen below 10 million per early and exclusive breast 353 St. Nicolas Street, Suite 200 Latin America, with about 205 The report stated that the Montreal, Quebec, Canada H2Y 2P1 million people living in pover- Caribbean and Latin America year to 9.7 million, down from feeding, measles immuniza- Tel: (514) 931-0422 • Fax: (514) 931-0455 ty. It said 79 million live in are not moving fast enough to almost 13 million in 1990. tion, Vitamin A supplementa- E-mail: [email protected] extreme poverty in which they reduce extreme poverty and “This is an historic moment,” tion and the use of insecti- said UNICEF executive director cide-treated bed nets to pre- Jamaica Bureau cannot cover their basic hunger, noting that the income MARIE GREGORY dietary needs. gap between the rich and the Ann M. Veneman. vent malaria”. “More children are sur- “The new figures show (876) 925-5640 “Countries of the region poor has expanded although P.O. Box 127, Constant Spring face some daunting challenges there has been some progress viving today than ever that progress is possible if we Kingston 8, Jamaica growing out of the region’s fail- in some areas. before,” she added. act with renewed urgency to Opinions expressed by editors and ure to make substantial inroads “Now, we must build on scale-up interventions that writers are not necessarily those of the against poverty”, stated the ® this public health success to have proven successful,” publisher. push for the achievement of Veneman said. Caribbean Today, an independent the Millennium Development In addition, she said there news magazine, is published every month Goals.” is unprecedented support for by Caribbean Publishing & Services, Inc. PLEASE NOTE UNICEF said rapid global health, with increased Subscription rates are: US$20 per year Caribbean Today is requesting that, effective immediately, all editorial corre- declines in under-five mortality funding and expanding part- (Bulk); 1st Class $35 per year. Caribbean Today is not responsible spondence be e-mailed to [email protected]. We appreciate your have been seen in the Caribbean nerships, including with gov- for unsolicited manuscripts or photos. To co-operation. In addition, the deadline for submitting articles to be consid- and Latin America, among ernments, the private sector, guarantee return, please include a self- ered for publication is the 20th of the month preceding the month of publica- other regions. international foundations and addressed stamped envelope. tion. For example, the deadline for articles for Caribbean Today’s November “The Latin American and civil society. Articles appearing in Caribbean Caribbean region is on track Today may not be reproduced without 2007 edition must be received no later than October 20, 2007. ® written permission of the editor.

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NEWS www.caribbeantoday.com T&T’s P.M.laments ‘dangerous U.S. funds Tsunami warning system for Caribbean BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, “As part of that effort, prepare coastal communities imbalances’ of globalization CMC – The United States is the U.S. government provided for action to be taken when a NELSON A. KING prime minister said that the providing just under half a US$37.5 million in related warning issued. world’s industrial powers con- million dollars towards the support to the Caribbean and “We have provided the NEW YORK - Trinidad and tinue to “create the breeding establishment of a Tsunami Atlantic regions including the technological infrastructure Tobago’s Prime Minister ground for the level of disaf- and Coastal Hazards Warning installation of seismic moni- and we are now providing our Patrick Manning has lament- fection and desperation that System (TCHWS) for the toring stations in throughout people with the knowledge and ed the “dangerous imbal- produces criminal activity Caribbean community the region.” skills to respond effectively to ances” of globalization. within and across borders.” (CARICOM). The station, which is such dangers,” said CDERA In an hour-long address at Manning said other con- Washington, through the Chairman Dale Marshall, who the Medgar Evers College in sequences include illegal United States Agency for is also the Barbados minister Brooklyn, where he received migration; the “pernicious” International Development/ of home affairs. an honorary doctor of laws trade in illegal drugs and Office of Foreign Disaster “Often we think of the degree from one of New arms; and “the delusion of an Assistance, on Sept. 26 signed a region as one which is only York’s predominantly black ideological solution, which is two-year agreement with the prone to certain types of nat- colleges last month, Manning fuelling a terrorism with a Caribbean Disaster Emergency ural hazards – hurricanes, said the current economic ferociousness, perhaps, Response Agency (CDERA) tropical storms and floods – paradigm, “anchored in glob- unprecedented in human his- as part of the initiative. we tend to forget that there alization, notwithstanding its tory.” Officials said the $475,200 are other natural hazards such obvious benefits, in terms of Manning said failure of grant would help in empower- as earthquakes and tsunamis productivity, has already cre- the “model” in many develop- ing coastal communities in the which though less frequent, ated dangerous imbalances in ing countries has given rise to Caribbean to prepare for and can be much more greater in and among countries. “an adventurism and left-wing respond to tsunamis and Ourisman magnitude and can cause sig- “In the midst of tremen- governments, particularly in coastal hazards. nificantly higher loss of dous wealth that is being cre- Latin America. “This assistance comple- located in Barbados, became human life.” ated, the gulf between rich “Additionally, competi- ments the multi-million dollar operational in Oct. 2006. The two-year project will and poor continues to widen. tion, the struggle to survive U.S. government support for be executed by CDERA in “The gross domestic and the push to produce con- the creation of the Indian OBJECTIVE conjunction with the Seismic product of the 40 poorest tinue to take a most disas- Ocean Tsunami Warning The primary objective of Research Unit of the University nations is less that the wealth trous toll on the environment, System in the wake of the the TCHWS project is to sup- of the West Indies (UWI), the of three richest nations in the to the point where the very Indian Ocean Tsunami of port the establishment of an National Meteorological world,” he added. survival of human civilization December 26, 2004,” said U.S. effective end-to-end Tsunami Offices and the Coastal Zone Manning said that over 50 on this planet is threatened,” Ambassador to Barbados and warning system at the region- Management Agencies in percent of the world’s popula- he said. the Eastern Caribbean Mary al and national levels, and to CDERA participating states. tion lives on less than $2 a Manning said the Ourisman, who signed the undertake public education day in a world economy that “Washington consensus,” accord. and awareness campaigns to ® generates in excess of $50 tril- which “liberalizes” trade and lion annually. production facing the private sector, has “clearly not worked Antigua’s P.M.wants collaborative ‘UNACCEPTABLE’ for the benefit of all humanity.” He said the result of “this Brooklyn Borough action on climate change measures totally, unacceptable situation President Marty Markowitz, who, in jest, considers himself NEW YORK – Antigua and defining chal- for dealing with climate is mass poverty, spawning the Barbuda’s Prime Minister lenges before change,” Spencer said. a “Trini Jew”, presented myriad problems of hunger, Baldwin Spencer has called U.N. in the The prime minister noted Manning with a small replica malnutrition, disease, home- for collaborative action in upcoming that financing mechanisms, lessness, illiteracy and child of the Brooklyn Bridge and a adapting measures to deal decade. like the Global Environment labor,” adding that over eight proclamation, declaring Sept. with climate change. “It’s one Facility (GEF), should priori- million people die annually 26, 2007, “Patrick Manning “It would be no exaggera- thing to set up tize the implementation of “because they are simply too Day in Brooklyn”. tion to say that our collabora- a fund, but projects as opposed to writing poor to stay alive.” tive action in this area holds another for reports and other consultation The Trinidad and Tobago ® the key to future of entire the monies to Spencer exercises. countries and communities reach projects In looking ahead to the around the globe,” Spencer that make an impact in the Climate Change Summit in U.S. considers compensation for Antigua... said during a round table dis- country. The latter is not hap- Bali, Indonesia later this year, cussion at a high-level summit pening enough to make a dif- the Antiguan leader said of the United Nations ference. future generations will look (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6) as Antigua continues to bene- fit from CBI preferences General Assembly last month. “Simply put, if we are to back to the Bali negotiations known as the Caribbean Basin through WTO waiver, the pro- Spencer told colleagues implement national climate and judge the global commu- Initiative (CBI), if Antigua posed action of retaliation may and other delegates that change action plans, it requires nity in terms of its response to pursues these sanctions. be completely permissible financing effective measures money, technical assistance the issue of financing for CRNM said that MPAA is under international trade law. and mechanisms for climate and training and educating our adaptation. basing its argument on the “It should be further change would be one of the own local people on strategies grounds that “suspension of noted that U.S. recourse in this ® TRIPS obligations would case has also been empowered infringe the eligibility criteria by the recent agreement for CBI benefits. between CARICOM and the “The association has cited U.S. to extend the CBI prefer- an eligibility criteria which ential agreement. states that CBERA denies “This decision to extend beneficiary status to a country CBI was the most appropriate that has nationalized, expropri- course of action for CARI- ated or otherwise seized own- COM (Caribbean community) ership or control of property at that time. However, this owned by U.S. citizens or has potential threat of U.S. retalia- taken steps to repudiate or tion, compromises the political, nullify intellectual property. negotiating and legal manoeu- “Further reference was vrability of Antigua. made to the CBTPA criterion “In the end, the options that requires that countries available to Antigua in this meet CBERA criteria in intel- case are few”, stated the lectual property rights (IPR) CRNM. protection”. CRNM said that “in as far ®

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8 CARIBBEAN TODAY October 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTHMONTH ~ A Caribbean Today feature Hispanics in U.S. celebrate heritage Miami libraries to present art, cooking, entertainment he Miami-Dade Public In addition, photojournal- very year, between Library System will ist Randi Sidman-Moore September and October, Tcommemorate Hispanic explores the joining of cul- EHispanics celebrate Heritage Month with a series tures in “Lox with Black their history, culture and of programs and exhibitions at Beans and Rice: A portrait of achievements. branches throughout the Cuban-Jewish life”; children’s It is a time when the Miami-Dade County in South author Katie Sciurba, shares United States commemorates Florida. her inspiration for writing the traditions of its residents Beginning Oct. 2, library “Oye Celia!”, a novel dedicat- who trace their roots to Spain, visitors will be treated to ed to the legendary Celia Mexico and the Spanish- author presentations, folkloric Cruz, and the “Colorin speaking nations of Central performances, cooking Colorado” puppet theater will America, South America and demonstrations, children’s present tales from Mexico. the Caribbean. programs, and art exhibitions. All events are free and Sept. 15 was chosen as There will also be presen- open to the public. For more the starting point of the tations exploring the history information, call 305-375-2665 celebration because it is of dance, including the salsa or visit www.mdpls.org. the anniversary of the and mambo. Independence of five Latin ® American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, MDC offers free events Honduras and Nicaragua. In MIAMI – In commemoration College Terr., 305-237-5555. addition, Mexico declared its of Hispanic Heritage Month, • InterAmerican Campus, Independence on Sept. 16 and A child at the John F. Kennedy Library in Hialeah, Florida enjoys the interactive CERP kiosk after a Flamenco performance during “Hispanic Heritage” celebrations. Miami Dade College will 627 S.W. 27th Ave., Chile on Sept. 18. present an array of free 305-237-6000 The month-long celebra- The Corps participated Everglades. events, such as art exhibits, • Kendall Campus, 11011 tion includes educational in local events organized by The kiosks included lectures, film screenings, com- S.W. 104th St., 305-237-2000. events and activities to raise public libraries. Last month images of the Everglades and edy shows and dance classes • Medical Center Campus, awareness about issues affect- they installed kiosks that pertinent ecological facts throughout October at each 950 N.W. 20th St., ing Hispanic Americans in the described the Comprehensive translated into Spanish. of MDC’s eight campuses in 305-237-4000 U.S. In honor of “Hispanic Everglades Restoration Plan Accompanying children’s but- South Florida. • North Campus, 11380 N.W. Heritage Month”, the U.S. (CERP), and provided infor- tons and print materials for Contact the following 27th Ave., 305-237-1000. Army Corps of Engineers, mation about how the plan adults and younger readers campuses for information • West Campus, 3800 N.W. Jacksonville District, brought will affect the lives of South were also provided. about events scheduled there: 115th Ave., 305-237-8000. information about restoration Floridians and how everyone • Hialeah Campus, 1780 W. • Wolfson Campus, 300 N.E. of Florida’s Miami-Dade and has the opportunity to ® 49th St., 305-237-8700 Second Ave., 305-237-3131. Broward counties. become involved in saving the • Homestead Campus, 500 ®

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October 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 9

VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Injustice is bigger Girls on girls, what a thing!

omen loving women than ‘Jena 6’ is as old as time itself, but it never e black Americans Sharpton, who enthusiastical- W seemed to get the abhorrence seem to need a ly accepted, leading the march as men loving men. major event or out- with Martin Luther King III. W Anyway, these women got rage every so often to revive Suddenly little Jena the name lesbian from our mass energies in ways became a symbol in many Lesbos, which is a Greek that remind of us the 1960s minds of every injustice or island in the Aegean Sea. civil rights racial grievance, real or per- History has more than movement. ceived, that black folks have implied that the inhabitants In the endured in recent years, from there, especially the followers 1980s we had the aftermath of Hurricane of the poetess Sappho, were mass arrests Katrina to the gross dispari- all into free love between at the South ties between federal sentences each other. African for crack and powder cocaine. The fact is though, they embassy to The “Jena 6” put real also dealt with men, but the protest names and faces to Justice women loving women part apartheid. In Department statistics that seemed to dominate. The fact the 1990s CLARENCE show African American men is also, anyone who lives on there was the PAGE to be three times more likely the isle of Lesbos is a lesbian, Million Man than white men to face jail just as how people who live in March to once they have been arrested. how many being raised. Jamaica are Jamaicans and so redeem black fatherhood and The biggest disparity is prominent Not so with males though, on. But in this context, and proper role modeling. In 2007 among men convicted of schools have as no way would society allow the accepted one, is that we have the “Jena 6”. aggravated assault, according fallen prey to two young males to do the female homosexuals are Thousands flowed by the to the National Urban this type of things that I just described. So called lesbians. busload into tiny Jena, League’s annual State of sexuality. from early, girls are exposed Way back in my youth, Louisiana, last month. They Black America report. It Locker to same gender contact and before I knew what all this came to march on behalf of found that black men are sen- rooms aren’t affection, and sleep over same sex thing was about, I six black youths who were tenced to an average of 48 what they slumber parties are the rage naively thought that boys originally charged with months in jail - almost one- used to be, TONY among young teenage girls. Is liked girls and that was that. attempted murder for alleged- third longer than the average and no longer ROBINSON it any wonder that many of The thought of men with men ly beating up a white youth sentence received by white are only them graduate to become full- or women with women just last December at the local men. randy fledged lesbians, or am I tak- never crossed my innocent high school in what many But now that the crowds teenage boys predators for ing the narrow view? To com- mind. So, in my wooing days I describe as a schoolyard fight. have gone home and Jena is our daughters. Now you also pound it, women are able to approached this very attrac- The “Jena 6” case actual- once again a quiet little oil have to be careful of the girl mask their sexual leanings, tive young foreign lady and ly began months earlier when and lumber town, will the big next door. She could very well after all. started to give her my best three nooses appeared in a march have lasting signifi- be your future daughter in “We’re only roommates.” lyrics. tree at the high school. That cance, like the movement that law. Curiously, many of the “Don’t even bother with was one day after black stu- helped end apartheid and free But it’s bound to happen, lesbians that I know very well, those sweet words, they won’t dents defied a school tradition Nelson Mandela? Or will it be what with cable TV showing confessed to me that they had work on me, because I’m a that designated the tree to be like the Million Man March: a how ‘natural’ it is for women suffered some sort of sexual lesbian,” she said. a whites-only gathering spot. stirring memory and a great to love women. Have you abuse while young, usually “Well, I’m Jamaican, but The school principal expelled applause line for political watched The L Word? Plus from a family member. pray tell, what is a lesbian?” I three white students for hang- speeches, but not much fol- even male magazines perpetu- innocently queried. ing the nooses, but the school low-through? ate this by having women in RESTRICTIONS “A lesbian is a woman superintendent reduced the bed pleasuring each other. The only time men are who enjoys the company of expulsions to a few days of BAD COVERAGE That’s a big turn on for allowed to show any form of women, loves to touch, caress, suspension. It was the bad fortune of men, but apart from that, affection towards each other fondle, kiss and make love to Tensions grew as various the “Jena 6” demonstrators society has always accepted is during sports, especially women all the time,” was her interracial fights, attacks and that they had to share the little girls being affectionate football when a goal is scored. reply. angry confrontations, mostly spotlight with another media towards each other. Girls are Then you will see players run off-campus, in later weeks eruption, the latest misadven- allowed to hold hands, hug down each other, jump on one TAKE-OFF resulted in young white males tures of O.J. Simpson. each other, groom each other, another, pile on and hug and This phenomenon seems receiving slaps on the wrist, at Charged with armed robbery touch, comb each other’s hair, kiss each other like they’re in to be taking off pretty big in most, while young blacks in Las Vegas for allegedly try- and even sleep together in the a Turkish bathhouse. Even our parts, or perhaps they’re received school expulsions or ing to steal memorabilia from same bed. We think nothing the spectators in the stands just creeping out of the closet. criminal charges. his own glory days, Simpson of it, and it’s as natural as a will join in, clapping and hug- More and more we see reports It was the local district needed no help from bloggers walk in the park. Why, even ging total strangers, just in the press, and even recently attorney’s decision to charge or talk shows to get wall-to- female roommates are preva- there was this huge feature on six black students with wall coverage. lent, without any eyebrows (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) attempted second-degree Simpson returned to T.V. murder, while white students screens like a cheap sequel to had gone free for other a movie you’d rather forget. attacks, that touched off the He reminds us of one of national uproar. The white America’s most racially divid- student who was beaten ed moments. Simpson’s allegedly taunted blacks with acquittal of double homicide racial slurs and was a friend charges gave white Americans of the students who had hung a shock that their black the nooses. He was treated friends, neighbors and and released after a few hours coworkers have been long in a local hospital. acquainted with, the chilling sense of denied justice. EXCESS And for black Americans I don’t make light of with an eye for bitter irony, anyone’s beating, but the Simpson’s acquittal showed a attempted murder charge was strange form of progress, at an excess wretched enough to best: America had progressed be a virtual invitation to the enough to let a rich black Revs. Jesse Jackson and Al (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)

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10 CARIBBEAN TODAY October 2007

www.caribbeantoday.com VIEWPOINT

• “We are going undefeated, Lester Bird world record for the 100 meters to watch every returned by pop- describing the late last month in Italy. move they make, ular demand and Sir John every step they left the scenes Compton as one • “We will arrest take, every for the last time of the region’s you. I make it where they go, again undefeat- greatest integra- plain” - Prime • “If we can’t everything they ed” - former St. tionist. Minister Dr. work together to do” – Jamaica’s Vincent Prime Ralph Gonsalves build the country, former Prime Minister Portia Minister Sir James Mitchell • “Today I proved to the world warning fisher- we are going to Simpson Miller last month out- commenting on the death of Sir that Asafa is back” – Jamaican men from neigh- spend a lot of lining the watchdog role of the John Compton, prime minister sprinter Asafa Powell, who dis- boring countries energy, and we People’s National Party as the of St. Lucia and his cousin. appointed at the last month that they would be are going to find country’s Opposition to the IAAF World ill-advised to venture into that we are get- newly elected government. • “He was an outstanding Championships Vincentian waters to fish. ting nowhere fast” - Bruce leader in that he represented of Athletics, con- Golding last month issuing a • “I am delighted that Sir John the spirit and the whole poten- firms he is still Compiled from CMC and other call for national unity days died as a prime minister like an tial of St. Lucia and the the world’s fastest sources. before being sworn in as old solider with his boots on. Caribbean” - former Antigua human after Jamaica’s new prime minister. He retired from government and Barbuda Prime Minister smashing his own ® Injustice is bigger than ‘Jena 6’ (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) reserved for rich white men. a great people or a great with Tawana Brawley or the The best legacy for the But that’s not a good country. As demonstrated by recent bogus Duke University “Jena 6” march would be a man buy his way out of enough standard of justice for the Rev. Al Sharpton’s fiasco rape case, unequal justice new movement, dedicated this accountability in the way once doesn’t always tilt against time to the reduction and black folks or Latinos. We elimination of unequal justice simply have been statistically wherever it appears. I don’t more vulnerable to it. care who leads it, but it In this increasingly diverse shouldn’t be for blacks only. country, Americans should not have to spend another century © 2007 Clarence Page. playing one-downs-manship, Distributed by Tribune Media competing to see whose race Services, Inc. or ethnic group can be the most victimized. ® Girls on girls, what a thing! (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9) As a result, many women, tired of the insensitivity and because a goal was scored. impatience of their men, turn After the match and out instead to the gentler softer of the stadium though, it’s approach of other women. back to normal, and not even male pillion riders on bike CONFUSED backs are allowed to hold on Some are confused, and to the rider for security. Not miss the hard male body and so with women, who can often backslide, but eventual- exhibit all the affection they ly they return to the feminine want, without being called les- fold and experience the bians, even if they are. untold pleasures of girls on There are many reasons girls. And don’t think that all why women turn to other lesbians are dykes too, who women for more than com- love to wear men’s clothes panionship. For one, there’s and boots. Many are beauti- more affection, and women ful, sultry, soft sexy women do love affection. Left to a who turn many male heads. woman she would have affec- That’s another thing, men tion all night with a little sex don’t seem to mind the fact at the end to top it off. Left to that women are lesbians. Just a man he would have sex all recently I was in the presence night, with a little affection at of two of my lesbian friends, the beginning just to appease two absolutely gorgeous her. That’s why foreplay is women, and just the thought such a big issue between the of what they did behind sexes, with women crying that closed doors started to turn it’s never enough and men me on. This is perpetuated in saying that women want too books, magazines, movies, much. T.V. series, where women lov- Frankly, the man could ing women is accepted and very well do without it. But actually proves to be a stimu- aha, that’s where the lesbians lant to men. come in. They can go at this Like it or not, it’s a grow- foreplay affection thing for ing trend, and if you can’t hours, bringing untold pleas- beat them, you had better join ure to each other. Few men, if them. Perhaps more men any, can match that, or would should become lesbian-like in want to. Remember the old their lovemaking with their saying, that men fake affec- women. tion to get sex, while women Girls on girls, what a thing. fake sex to get affection. With lesbians there is no faking, [email protected] just the real deal, and no man can compete. ®

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October 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 11

VIEWPOINT www.caribbeantoday.com Heart of a champion: Jamaica’s Veronica Campbell strikes gold on the track

Jamaica’s Veronica Campbell played a really good role you in terms of your make-up takes to compete to the overcame a serious leg injury to as a coach at the World as an athlete? best of my ability. I don’t again prove she’s one of the best Championships. He made sure I A: It is very important. On top really feel any pressure ever athletes from the Caribbean. did everything I needed to do of the physical, you’ve got to be because when you try to Recently she talked to Caribbean to go through each round. He mentally strong…You can be pressure yourself that can Today’s Managing Editor Gordon was very supportive. It was fun physically fast or strong, but if mess everything up. You’ve Williams about her medal win- working with Omar. It wasn’t you are not strong in the head just got to focus on what ning performances at the recent any problem. Everything went then you can mess everything you’ve got to do and that IAAF World Championships of well and I just thank God that up. So mental preparation, will take care of everything, Athletics in Osaka, Japan, includ- he was able to help me focus on being strong, being positive, is all the expectations and ing gold in the 100 meters and sil- the World Championships. very important to me as an ath- everything. I try not to let ver in the 200 meters and 4x100 lete. pressure get to me. I just meters relay. The following is an Q: Seeing as you have a person- work on what I have to get edited version of that interview: al relationship with him, does it Q: Is there any special way you done. make any difference when he is go about preparing yourself Campbell trying to stay ahead of the pack. QUESTION: You’re coming off acting as your coach? mentally to compete, especially Q: You wake up in the the World Championships. A: I know how to separate per- in these big meets? morning thinking you’re the A: (She laughs.) I wouldn’t say How’re you feeling now, not sonal stuff from business. So it A: I think one part, you’ve got fastest woman in the world? it’s beyond me. To say it’s just physically, but mentally and was no problem at all. to have confidence in your A: (She laughs.) beyond me that would be nega- spiritually as well? training. You’ve got to have tive thinking and that doesn’t A: I’m feeling great. I think I Q: The 100 meters final, that confidence in yourself. You just Q: Has it dawned on you yet? get us anywhere. I know I have achieved a lot at the World was possibly the closest finish have to believe that you put in A: Ah, I’d rather skip that the ability, the potential to do Championships and I’m pleased of all times, or one of the clos- the work and you can achieve question. (She laughs.) I’m very well…But I definitely with the way I performed. All est…Were there any added whatever you want, because the blessed. I feel well accom- know that 22.05 is not my best. the hard work I put in paid off. expectations seeing that mind is so powerful. As long as plished. I feel I’ve accomplished So I’m very grateful. Jamaica expected a gold medal you work hard and just focus on a lot. Q: The Osaka schedule was from Asafa Powell and that did- you. It’s all about you in the tough. Does that give you any Q: Coming off the injury, were n’t happen, and now it was your race. It’s not about all the com- Q: What specifically do you second thoughts about attempt- the World Championships like a turn? petitors. It’s just about you and believe you have to work on? ing the double (100 and 200) in shot at redemption for you, to A: I was not pressured at all. I your lane. Just know what A: Right now, I think my last 50 Beijing (China) at the 2008 re-establish yourself? know what I went to the World you’ve got to do and stay confi- (meters), especially in that race Olympic Games? A: Not really. I was hurt last Championships to accomplish dent. (200) is the main thing I need to A: That is too early to deter- year and I accept that. And I and that was to win. So I stayed work on because I think I exe- mine whether I will double at worked hard to get myself focused, stayed positive, stayed Q: Do you feel the weight of cuted well (in Osaka), but I was Beijing. It all depends on the back to full form. I was very confident and took it each expectations as Jamaica’s lead- not pleased with the last 50 way my training goes. With that determined at the World round by round. ing gold medal hope at major (meters) of that race. in mind, I’ll be the defending Championships. I was very games now? champion in the 200 meters at confident that I would do well Q: When you started the race, A: Not really. I’m just trying to Q: Your fastest time is 22.05 the Olympics and then I hope because training was going on you had to play catch-up. What maximize everything; my poten- seconds. American Allyson to do very well in the 100 really good. I was just pleased, were your thoughts coming out tial and my career. So whenever Felix ran 21.81 to win. Is that meters. Right now I am not just taking each round with con- of the blocks and say halfway I go on the track I’m just mak- beyond you or within your sure, but it’s a possibility. fidence. through the race? ing sure that I do whatever it reach? A: I don’t remember the entire ® Q: You had the misfortune of race, but when I got out of my having your coach (American drive phase I realized that I was Lance Brauman) not around, not in the front and I realized incarcerated. What sort of rela- that I had some catching up to tionship did you have with the do. But I’ve learnt to be patient coach and how did his absence and that helped me to run a from your training, personally, very good race and come out affect your preparations going on top. into the games? A: Despite the fact that our Q: You’re saying that your coach was absent, my main aim experience helped pull you was to stay focused. I was very through what was probably not determined. He (Brauman) left the best start? us with all our programs and A: Right, and mistakes that I’ve our workouts that we had to do. made before; to have learned So I could follow the proce- from those. And I was able to dures, the workouts, and just maintain my composure and stay focused. And I just worked execute the race despite having towards my goal. a not-so-good…start. I think the problem in that race was not so Q: Is he still your coach and is much my start, but it was my he still going to be your coach? execution for the first 30 A: As for now I think I’ll stick (meters). with the program I’ve been doing for a while. It’s worked Q: But you did not panic? well for me and I think the best A: No, I did not panic. If I’d thing to stick with what I know, panicked, then that’s not a good what has worked well for me, thing. If you panic then you not to try something new during cannot execute well. You get the Olympic year (2008). out of your drive phase too quick and you screw the entire Q: Your fiancé, Omar Brown, race up. So patience is the best was at the World Championships thing when it comes to 100 helping as coach. How did that meters if you don’t get a good work out? And what were the start. advantages and disadvantages, if any, to that arrangement? Q: There’s a lot of talk about A: That went well. Omar did that, about your mental tough- very well. (She laughs.) He ness. How important is that to

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HEALTH www.caribbeantoday.com Caribbean spending millions to fight Jamaica is malaria free ~ gov’t KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC up vector control program. non-communicable disease threat – Jamaica has regained its Persons traveling to malaria free status following Jamaica are no longer PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, had become “a major chal- justifications for the summit a turbulent period earlier this required to take anti-malaria CMC – Caribbean countries lenge on our hands.” and that the regional leaders year, which saw scores of prophylaxis. The Centre for are spending millions of dol- had shown an intention to people contracting the mos- lars treating non-communica- NO QUICK FIX “embark on preventive quito-borne disease. ble diseases that will continue Chairman of the action.” He said that his The Ministry of Health to present a major challenge Commission, Sir George administration had already said last month that there to the region if steps are not Alleyne told journalists that taken steps towards dealing have been no new confirmed taken to address the situation, there is no quick remedy to with the cases for the past three according to Prime Minister reducing the burden of non- spread of months. The last reported Patrick Manning. communica- non-commu- case occurred on June 19. Addressing a regional ble diseases nicable dis- Dr. Eva Lewis Fuller, news conference ahead of a in the eases mak- director of health promotion one-day special Caribbean Caribbean. ing refer- and protection in the min- community(CARICOM) He said the ences to the istry, said the three-month Malaria-carrying mosquito Summit on Health last month, region has national period had been critical, as it Manning said that chronic non- reached this symposium indicated that the ministry communicable diseases were stage after on health as had “broken the back” of Disease Control in the the disease. She said this United States, as well as the responsible for many deaths in “decades of well as Alleyne the Caribbean. He said that exposure to increasing was done by interrupting the World Health Organization, the economic burden of treat- risk factors taxes on transmission through various had recommended the drug. ing diseases such as diabetes Manning and their cor- alcohol and tobacco products strategies, which included and hypertension would be in rection will in the 2007 national budget. active searches and a beefed ® the vicinity of $496.7 million. take some time.” “These items have been Manning said that region- The risk factors identified identified as major contributors al governments had been pre- by the commission include to high mortality rates caused sented with the findings of a high blood pressure, obesity, by non-communicable diseases CARICOM Commission for smoking, inappropriate diet in this country as well as the Health and Development dur- and lack of physical activity. Caribbean and other parts of ing their summit in St. Kitts Manning said the cost to the world,” Manning said. last year, adding that the Caribbean governments, as report had highlighted that well as the social implications More on page 27. non-communicable disease were sufficient and necessary ® New medical school in St. Kitts begins operations in Jan. 2008

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, charter for a school of medi- school of medicine and or CMC – The University of cine with the right to confer such other schools, provided Medicine and Health Sciences the degree of doctor of medi- that the holding of the charter of St. Kitts (UMHSS), capa- cine and other appropriate shall be subject to the univer- ble of accommodating 1,200 degrees, including without sity continuing to be accredit- students, will begin operations limitation, post-graduate ed by the Accreditation here in January next year. degrees to holders of the doc- Board”, statid the agreement. An agreement to charter tor of medicine degree. Under the agreement, the and establish the university “The government also Joseph N. France General has been signed between grants the university the right Hospital and other public Prime Minister Dr. Denzil L. to establish a pre-medical health care facilities would be Douglas and Dr. Robert Ross division with the right to con- available to the UMHSS for of the United States, a gov- fer appropriate degrees, the training of physicians for ernment statement said. including without limitation, an annual fee. It also said that It said that under the the degree of physicians assis- UHMSS would “continuously” agreement, government will tant, and to engage in all nec- provide two scholarships to grant the university, subject essary and appropriate activi- nationals covering the cost of to accreditation by the ties that are direct or inciden- tuition, books and equipment. Accreditation Board, “the tal to the operation of a ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com LOCAL Young pilot given top Jamaican honors U.S. wants resident ourism Minister Edmund had now joined the ranks of Jamaican aliens to turn in old Bartlett has proposed con- many other deserving Jamaicans govern- Tferring the title of ambas- who had accomplished notable ment dur- sador for tourism for Jamaica to areas of ingenuity. ing a four- ‘green cards’ pilot Barrington Irving following day visit to Question: Should I replace my USCIS facility for photographs his successful historic solo flight ‘INSPIRATION’ the island. “green card” even though it and fingerprints. around the world. Irving, a 23-year-old senior Born in has no expiration date? During last month’s World majoring in aerospace at Kingston, PURPOSE Flight Adventure Gala, held in Florida Memorial University, Irving was Answer: Yes you should, offi- Permanent Resident Cards Captain Irving’s honor at the used his single engine plane raised in cials of the United States (Forms I-551) are issued to Florida Memorial University in called “Inspiration” to fly Miami Citizenship and Immigration permanent residents to serve as the United States, the Jamaican around the world, making him Gardens, Irving Services (USCIS) say. The evidence of immigration status, minister announced that this the first black and the youngest and has agency is proposing a new rule registration, identity and honor was in addition to the aviator to achieve the feat. been using that would terminate “green employment authorization. Jamaica national honor, Order On June 23, Irving com- his successful mission to cards” or permanent residency They also serve as entry docu- of Distinction (O.D.) Rank of pleted his mission, which took encourage young people to documents that have no expira- ments upon return from trips Commander, to be conferred 97 days, carrying him more resist negative influences and tion dates, according to a recent outside of the U.S. on the Jamaican-born pilot at than 26,000 miles and across work towards their dream. notice in the Federal Register. Officials of the USCIS King’s House in the Caribbean many countries since he took Irving also established an If the rule becomes final, it insist that a card that is too old, nation. off from Miami in March. aviation learning center, at would enable USCIS to update with out-of-date photographs, In praising the young aviator, Earlier this year, during the Opa-Locka Airport in cardholder information, con- cannot effectively serve these Bartlett told almost 400 wellwish- Jamaica’s 45th Independence South Florida. duct background checks, and purposes. And, they added: ers attending the gala that Irving celebrations, Irving and his electronically store applicants’ “Replacement of the outstand- family were guests of the ® biometric information. The new ing permanent resident cards card will be a modern version without expiration dates is crit- with greater security, be more ical to the national security Jamaica’s first lady commissions ‘Lunch for Literacy’ tamper-resistant, and will have mission of USCIS”. an expiration date requiring Since August 1989, NEW YORK - Jamaica’s you are not able to read and that the card be periodically Permanent Resident Cards early childhood and primary when you can read, you’re renewed. have been issued with a 10-year education programs are soon sure to enjoy much better The rule proposes to validity period, at which point to benefit from a feeding pro- health,” Mrs. Golding said. require permanent residents the cardholder is required to gram to be commissioned by Noting that, “you cannot with Permanent Resident apply to renew the card. Prior First Lady Lorna Golding. learn unless you are well fed,” Cards (“green cards”) without to August 1989, “green cards” Speaking with reporters Mrs. Golding said that the expiration dates and who have were issued with no expiration in New York last month, lunch for learning project not already applied for new date and these are the immi- Golding, wife of Prime would provide a proper nutri- cards with an expiration date grants the USCIS is targeting. Minister Bruce Golding, said tion program for the target to apply during a 120-day filing They estimate the number is she will be introducing a groups through well equipped period that would be estab- around 750,000 nationally. “Lunch for Literacy” program canteens in a presentable envi- lished by a final rulemaking. Meanwhile, officials also to benefit Jamaican students, ronment for dining, “and a The “green card” holder encourage eligible residents to especially at the early child- child would be motivated to can get a new “card” by filing consider applying for natural- hood and primary levels. come to school because the Form I-90, along with the filing ization as well. She was among scores of menu was going to be a good and biometric fees. Currently, first ladies from around the one today.” the total cost is $370 and The answers provided here are for world at the launch of the Training for the chefs for includes the filing fee of $290 information purposes only, and global health and literacy ini- the feeding program will be for the I-90 and an $80 biomet- do not create an attorney-client tiative by Laura Bush, wife of provided by the HEART Jamaica’s First Lady Lorna Golding ric fee for photographs and fin- relationship, nor are they a sub- United States President Institute. attending a global health and literacy gerprints. stitute for legal advice which can George W. Bush, held at the initiative in New York last month Applicants can e-file on only be given by a competent Pierpont Morgan Library - JIS the USCIS website using the attorney after reviewing all the and Museum, in midtown tive meeting. I knew always form, but they will receive a facts of the case. Manhattan. that literacy goes with health. ® notice to appear in person at a “This was a very informa- When you have bad health, ® Rains pepper ‘Jamaican Jerk Festival’, but fail to dampen its spice, spirit FITZGERALD SMITH the coveted ing jerk chicken, fish, yam, the event and prevented one “Dutch Pot” shrimp, and even ice cream. of the main performers from orrential rains shortened trophy, plus a Several local and interna- going onstage. its duration, but could cash prize. tional restaurants and busi- “The park had to be Tnot dilute the spice and According to Dr. nesses turned out to compete. closed prematurely because spirit of the sixth “Jamaican Jefferson, who The jerk feast was accompa- of rain and Alison Hinds, who Jerk Festival” held in South declined to nied by entertainment featur- was scheduled to perform, Florida last month. reveal her secret ing cultural dancers, folk could not,” he said. Despite the early finish, winning recipe, singers, poetry readings and a Rain or shine, the jerk the annual festival, which pro- her team did its musical treat by Byron Lee pits and grills are expected motes the traditional homework and and the Dragonnaires. Other to light up again next year Caribbean method of “jerk” was confident of activities, which made the for another festival, said seasoning food ranging from success. event a success, included domi- Edwards. Caribbean patrons are meat, seafood, desserts and “We knew noes, cricket and netball com- already looking forward to it. vegetables, still managed to who we were petitions, wine tasting and “With the upset among serve up a winner in its “Jerk going up - Photograph by Dreamy Riley games for the children. South Florida chefs, I think Cook-Off” and provide a feast against,” the elat- Variety is the spice of life. It also helped to spice up the differ- “The overall turnout for I will have to compete next of entertainment for the thou- ed winner told ent plates of food at this year’s “Jamaican Jerk Festival”. the event was excellent and we year,” said Dr. Jefferson with sands who showed up at Caribbean are happy,” said “Eddy” relish. “But the underdogs will Jamaica Awareness Inc. and Markham Park in Sunrise on Today. “And even if we didn’t Edwards, chief executive offi- forever be prepared.” presented by Air Jamaica, Sept. 23. win, we were going to come out cer of Riddims Marketing. attracted dozens of vendors. First time entrants “The looking good.” Fitzgerald Smith is a freelance Droves of adults and children Dental Place”, a team led by CUT SHORT writer for Caribbean Today. lined up throughout the day to Jamaican-born South Florida DROVES However, Edwards get their hands and mouths on dentist Dr. Sharon Jefferson The festival, a production explained that the rains, which ® the various jerk treats, includ- won the “jerk” cook-off and of Riddims Marketing and came later in the day, curtailed

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TOURISM/ TRAVEL www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. visitor arrivals in the Caribbean dip Caribbean tourism confab as passport re-entry requirement takes toll targets ‘Next Generation’ The U.S. Virgin Islands “…a huge market we cannot ELEANOR M. WILSON “The Next Generation: sented by the host venue and hotel occupancy does show a afford to lose. We all need to Learning From The Past, other Caribbean Tourism 6.5 percent drop in U.S. take a much more aggressive In spite of belated protests Preparing For The Future” Organization (CTO) member guests January through March approach to overcome this mounted by Caribbean will be the theme of the 30th countries, and awards events against that period in 2006. passport obstacle, and the tourism organizations, the annual Caribbean Tourism – including the “Fifth While popular joint Caribbean Hotel much-maligned Western Conference (CTC) to be held Annual Travel Writer and St. Thomas Association/Caribbean Hemisphere Travel Initiative this month in Puerto Rico. Photographer Awards” and (WHTI) went into effect last slumped, St. Tourism Organization is The business meetings the “Third Annual Creativity January. Its Croix visitors working toward that goal.” will be held Oct. 19-21 and in Travel Awards” for travel mandatory increased 9.4 the conference sessions Oct. agents. passport percent, with PROMOTION 21-24. A series of business requirement a 23 percent SuperClubs didn’t wait For the third year in a meetings involving ministers for re-entry jump occur- for those organizations to row, conference participants and commissioners of into the ring during pave the way. At first Issa will earn continuing educa- tourism, the board of direc- United States the second announcement, the marketing tion credits through George tors and various CTO com- resulted in a quarter. Was division correctly perceived Washington University for mittees will precede the con- five percent that due to an existing island the WHTI as a huge problem Smith attending the CTC master ference beginning on Oct. 19, decrease in promotion, off-season rates, and initiated its own promo- classes. Master classes with the conference opening U.S. visitors or visitors switching their tion to circumvent the issue. involve in-depth study of top- keynote address taking place across the region January usual Caribbean destinations When guests book “Passport ics affecting the tourism on Oct. 21. through April. to one where no passport was Included” for a minimum four industry using case studies The conference is the This issue has been a hot needed? nights, documented new or and best practices. They are Caribbean region’s premier topic at Caribbean confer- renewed passport costs are designed for travel agents as caucus of tourism decision- ences for months now. OFF TARGET deducted from the all-inclu- well as general delegates. makers and an important However, not everyone is Some target markets have sive package rate. At $97 for Other scheduled program event on the calendar of blaming the WHTI for the been hit worse than others by adults, $82 for children and highlights include hotel and tourism practitioners and decline. When the regulation and application $67 for renewals, a family of site inspections for travel individuals doing business approached, backlog. John Lynch, execu- four reaps an impressive agents, destination spotlight with the Caribbean. Caribbean tive vice president of sales reward. presentations for agents, spe- This year, CTO expects tourism offi- worldwide for Sandals As of cialized workshops, and the to host over 600 tourism cials and Resorts, estimated that the Sept. 9, Condé Nast Traveler “My industry officials representing executives in Caribbean overall would lose approximately Caribbean Essay Contest” Caribbean governments, the industry -10 percent of its business in 6,000 and the Travel + Leisure hotels, airlines, cruise lines, responded the first half of 2007. He said SuperClubs “Youth Congress”. travel agents, tour operators, with thought the high cost of passports is guests had strategic partners and media provoking Forstmayr especially impacting the fami- taken advan- TOURS representatives from around observations ly and mass markets - pack- tage of this Perez In addition, there will be the world. and opinions on the down- age tours and students on promotion. guided product tours for del- ward spiral. spring break. Sandals caters The latest egates, media activities pre- ® The Bahamas, so close to strongly to honeymooners, Oct. 31, 2007 expiration date the U.S. east coast for con- who traditionally celebrate is now undergoing quarterly venient getaways, has felt the the momentous occasion with review. According to pinch. Arrivals decreased 11.7 a trip abroad. Chairman John Issa, it will St. Vincent’s tourism sector percent the first four months One sure industry sign of probably be extended again of 2007 against the same peri- ‘traveler angst’ is advance for at least two months, cov- making contribution ~ minister od in 2006, in spite of an bookings occurring closer and ering travel through Dec. closer to departure dates. 2008. aggressive campaign by the BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, for us, but Nassau/Paradise Island “This was our first red “We are proud of this flag last fall,” said Mike success,” said Issa. “Not only CMC – St. Vincent and the we also Promotion Board that reim- Grenadine’s tourism sector need to Norton, former vice president have we helped travelers bursed passport fees to more pumped over EC$350 million look at our for sales at Air Jamaica obtain passports, but during than 8,000 visitors. On the ($131 million) into that cruise ship Vacations who is now at the first month of the initia- bright side, length of stays Eastern Caribbean country’s passengers Sandals Resorts. “People tive, bookings increased 15 increased from 6.4 to 6.6 economy last year, an official that have aren’t as sure about spending percent at our six Jamaican nights and hotel revenue post- has disclosed. been up their money. So the visitor properties, while all around ed a 0.3 percent gain. Minister of Tourism and contin- slowdown becomes an econo- us, Caribbean hotel occupan- Jamaica suffered a 13 per- Vincent Beache said the sector ue to rise. my issue as well.” cy levels were dropping signif- Beache cent decrease in U.S. stayover accounted for more than 60 “As a Norton also had a ques- icantly.” arrivals January through percent of the country’s gross matter of tion: When those massive Hoteliers were hesitant to April, a particularly bad blow domestic product in 2006 and fact for this upcoming season now that there are 1,200 more backlogged applications are predict what kind of winter after a sluggish performance in we are on point to have the rooms to fill than were avail- finally filled, will regular season they’re facing. That the early part of this year, biggest season we ever had so able in 2006. During January Caribbean visitors return to late booking syndrome is still should end 2007 in an even things are on the up and up in to April last year, arrivals the region, or go to Europe or in effect. Esmeralda Perez, better financial position. tourism in St Vincent and the increased 16.9 percent. Asia now that they have the marketing director for Puerto “We have a slight decline Grenadines.” Basil Smith, director of entry document that has Rico Hotel & Tourism in stay over which is something tourism for Jamaica, com- always been required there? Association, where passports I don’t like to see,” Beache, COMMON THRUST mented: “Cruise ship book- The luxury market seems to are not required but numbers who was in Barbados last He identified the need for ings are also down, although remain constant through wars, are down, reported that it is month as part of a regional a common Caribbean market- cruise passengers are not recessions and passport too early to forecast for tourism thrust, told the ing thrust where the region required to produce passports dilemmas. leisure properties. Caribbean Media Corporation. could be offered as a common on re-entering the United “My guests at Round Hill “…But I can tell you that “We also have a slight decline destination. States until June, 2009. Resort are seasoned travelers Puerto Rico is looking at a in same day visitors which is “It is time we realize that Destinations exempt from the who already have passports,” very healthy group and corpo- expected because of the high we are really not in competi- new rule (USVI and Puerto Josef Forstmayr observed, “so rate booking chart,” he said. airfares. tion with each other, that Rico) are showing decreases we’re not experiencing any “This is an excellent indicator “In our yachting sector, every other country in the as well. I think this indicates significant occupancy that the season will be good.” which is always our biggest world wants the tourism dol- that other factors are in play change.” sector, we are up about 14 to lar and they are going for it,” here, such as a declining U.S. He did express concern MIXED BAG 15 percent approximately so Beache said. economy.” that the U.S. accounts for 70 A random sample of U.S. that as usual is a big strength percent of Caribbean visitors, Virgin Islands hoteliers (CONTINUED ON PAGE16)

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www.caribbeantoday.com TOURISM/ TRAVEL POINT OF DIVERSITY TOURISM BRIEFS • Delta flies weekly to ice to this Caribbean island. Bonaire The flight will operate once a Tourism Corporation Bonaire has week on Saturdays, beginning on announced that beginning Feb. 9, Feb. 16, 2008. Delta’s flight 373 2008 Delta Air Lines will launch a will depart Atlanta at 11:15 a.m. weekly non-stop flight from its and arrive at St. Kitts’s Robert L. Atlanta hub to Bonaire. Bradshaw International Airport at Delta Air Lines flight 371 will 4:05 p.m. The return flight 372 depart Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta will depart St. Kitts at 4:55 p.m. International Airport Saturdays at and arrive in Atlanta at 8:05 p.m. 10 a.m. arriving at Bonaire’s Flamingo International Airport at • Hyatt to open in Port of 3:10 p.m. The return flight 370 Spain will depart Bonaire Saturdays at In December, Hyatt Regency will 4:15 p.m. arriving in Atlanta at open its newest hotel in Port of 7:55 p.m. Spain, Trinidad. The 428-room hotel will be • …and St. Kitts too located in the heart of Trinidad and The St. Kitts Tourism Authority has Tobago’s capital city and financial announced that Delta Air Lines will epicenter. commence a new non-stop flight Jamaica Tourist Board’s Regional Director Clive Taffe points out Jamaica’s diverse offerings to some 80 travel agents from major markets in the United States during a recent mini-tourism trade show at the Half Moon Conference Centre in Montego Bay, from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Compiled from several Jamaica. The four-day event was organized by the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association JHTA), International Airport to St. Kitts, the sources. with support from Air Jamaica. Looking on from the head table are JTB’s Marketing Representative Wayne Sterling and JTHA’s first time the airline will offer serv- First Vice President Evelyn Smith. ® St. Vincent’s tourism sector making U.S. diplomat denies negative fallout of WHTI contribution ~ minister RAWLE TITUS cials in the Caribbean who effect that was feared,” the (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15) Lucia and Grenada. said that the move would seri- U.S. diplomat said. ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, ously damage the industry that “When you go to Europe “Not one package is there CMC - A United States diplo- provides employment for a POSSIBLY LOSS you can get one package that and one of the things about mat says there is no evidence significant amount of people A study, conducted by the will carry you to France, travelers and potential travel- that new travel regulations and is a major revenue earner. World Travel and Tourism Spain, Italy, Portugal and yet ers is that they love nothing announced recently by However, Karen Jo McIsaac, Council (WTTC), on behalf of their countries are a lot far- better than when they return Washington were affecting the charge d’affaires at the U.S. the Caribbean Hotel Association ther apart than we are in the home they could say that they tourism industry in the embassy here, said the author- (CHA), found that the region Caribbean yet within the visited more than one country Caribbean. ities have not seen any notice- stands to lose an estimated Caribbean we don’t have one on that trip,” he added. Washington said that U.S. able decline in visitor arrivals US$2.6 billion in earnings and package that can carry you citizens traveling to the ahead of the Oct. 1 implemen- more than 188,000 jobs at risk. to Barbados, St. Vincent, St. ® Caribbean had to be in posses- tation date of the new meas- “And we are not hearing sion of a valid passport in ures. the kind of complaints that we order to re-enter the country. “You will have to ask the heard before the rule went into The Western Hemisphere immigration authorities for the effect in January that it was Travel Initiative (WHTI) first actual numbers of people going to destroy the tourism came into effect in January, going in and out, but we have sector. I don’t think it did,” but was relaxed to accommo- not really seen a decrease as said the U.S. charge d’affaires. date travelers whose passport far as I can tell,” McIsaac “People continue to come applications were taking told the Caribbean Media especially because again a longer than expected in light Corporation (CMC). number of the other islands of the high demand for the “There are a large number have always required U.S. travel document. of American visitors and visitors to have passports. But the move by the U.S. Grenada particularly does not Grenada was the one that did- was criticized by tourism offi- focus on the U.S. and so a n’t so that was where I sort of larger number of your tourists expected a difference but it are still coming from Europe does not seem to have had a and other areas but it has not negative impact,” she added. appeared to have the kind of ® U.S. visitor arrivals in the Caribbean dip...

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15) The temporary use of passport applications as re- revealed a brisk February/ entry documents was sched- March, but lagging Christmas uled to expire on Sept. 30, holiday bookings so far, which now that the summer rush has they attribute more to higher subsided and the backlog is airfares imposed for that peri- supposedly under control. Yet od. Issa had no doubts. unless there is a last-minute “SuperClubs’ winter is renewal of that format, looking very strong, with solid U.S./Caribbean visitor arrival bookings through the season,” statistics for the next six he said. “Our upscale Grand months should turn up some Lido properties always do revealing percentages. very well in winter, and the high accolades lavished on Eleanor M. Wilson is a free- recently renovated Breezes lance writer for Caribbean Runaway Bay are generating Today. new business plus returning guests.” ®

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BUSINESS www.caribbeantoday.com U.S. call centers expand rapidly in Caribbean Business NEW YORK – A number of India, you can’t American corporations say even see it,” he links key call centers in the Caribbean added. are rapidly expanding in the David Kreiss, face of low-cost customer the Atlanta, to CSME service in the region. Georgia-based GEORGETOWN, Guyana, The corporations say owner of KM2, a CMC – Investment and col- declining communication collections and laboration between private costs, warm hospitality, and call-center firm sector agencies in the better relations with United that holds the Caribbean community States customers have also AOL contract in (CARICOM) is pivotal in contributed to call center St. Lucia, said he making the dream and goal of expansion in the region. has opened a “The islands all seem to new call center the Caribbean Single Market be really positive as opposed in Barbados and and Economy (CSME) a real- to the surly attitudes you have is planning on ity, says a senior regional par- in some of the other places,” further expand- liamentarian. said Robert Goodwin, manag- ing once more Barbados Deputy Prime er of AOL, a unit of the fiber optic cables Minister Mia Mottley told a Dulles, Virginia-based Time are installed. gathering of business people Warner Inc., which has a call Philip Peters, here that there were opportu- center in St. Lucia. chief executive nities for expansion of trade “It’s cheery weather, it’s of Coral Gables, in all CARICOM countries - Photograph by Reuters and that those opportunities cheery people,” he added in a Caribbean call centers are now a big attraction. Florida-based statement issued here. Zagada Markets, should be carefully sought Goodwin said while AOL percent of their earnings that oped call centers dedicated to said Caribbean out using partnership to still uses call centers in Asia are earned tax-free. customer service. call centers have increased ensure their success. and other countries, the Philip Cohen, an industry from 11,300 in 2002 to 55,000 “The fact that we have Caribbean has been more GLOBAL NUCLEUS consultant, said while the today, generating $2.5 billion worked together within the competitive, noting that sev- Industry experts said region has taken a relatively in economic gain. He lauded Caribbean community to eral regional governments Jamaica is one of the leading small share of the call market, the region for its high-quality establish a single market last have been offering tax and call centers in the Caribbean, it is significant for its relative- service. year in less than 20 other incentives to attract with about 14,000 employees, ly small population. “They have a history of years…and the fact that we more companies. AOL said making the region a new “You put a call center with troubleshooting with continue to work towards the Jamaica, for instance, offers global nucleus for call centers. 100 people in Barbados, and Americans without getting beginning of the framework “free zone” status that per- Barbados, Trinidad, and that’s a God’s gift,” he said. upset,” he said. for a single economy next mits owners to send home 100 Dominica have also devel- “With 100 people in year is also indicative of the ® commitment we have to working with each other,” she said late last month. Build on gains of 1970s, IMF tells Caribbean The minister of economic affairs and development, who WASHINGTON, CMC – In tance of good fundamentals.” ful reductions in poverty.” six percentage points of the led a Barbados investment the face of less supportive He identified three areas Gross Domestic Product delegation to Georgetown, external conditions, a top in which he said much can be By necessity, Lipsky said (GDP). said Guyana was ripe for International Monetary Fund accomplished: investment and this will have to be achieved But the IMF official said investment from other mem- (IMF) official has called on productivity; through a combination of there have been encouraging ber CARICOM countries. regional countries to build on fiscal policy; increased investment and recent developments in “We are cognizant that the gains they have made and financial faster productivity growth. increasing and diversifying even though Guyana has had since the 1970s. market devel- But he said additional trade in the region. He said its economic difficulties we Speaking on the topic, opment. progress is possible, noting regional fiscal policy improve- “The Global Outlook: “The region’s that the region’s productivity ments have been notable have every confidence that Implications for Latin recent growth, growth from 1990-2006 was recently, including increased this country has the resources America and the Caribbean”, while strong some two percentage points primary surpluses. and capacity to, with its peo- John Lipsky, the IMF’s first relative to its per year slower than that of But Lipsky said more ple, to lift those of us from the rest of the Caribbean deputy managing director, Lipsky own history, emerging Asia over the same needs to be done to reduce told the 40th annual meeting still lags other period. the dependence of public rev- community simply by using at the American Association developing He said investment ratios enues on commodities, noting the scale of resources, the of the Chambers of regions,” Lipsky said. in the Caribbean and Latin that current spending also scale of expertise and the Commerce in Latin America “Moreover, faster growth America are also “substantial- seems to be taking prece- commitment to be able to (AACCLA) that “this is the is a necessary condition in ly lower” than the developing dence over public investment. want to do it,” she said. time to underscore the impor- order to make more meaning- country average — by some The minister said Guyana ® had food and renewable ener- gy potential that could be realized using resources from Jamaican heads oldest U.S. minority trade grouping the other Caribbean coun- tries. NEW YORK - A Jamaican Her election comes at a ceptable and erodes the frag- Founded in 1947, “Agriculture is one of the has become the first Caribbean time when African Americans ile stability of our communi- NAREB, which has 84 chap- key areas that is a low hang- national to head the oldest and other minorities are los- ties,” she added. ters throughout the U.S., ing fruit,” she said, noting minority trade association in ing their homes to foreclosure seeks to “address the need to that the region needed to the United States. at an alarming rate. NATIONAL CAMPAIGN secure the right to equal move to new production Maria Kong, who resides “As real estate profession- She said during her two- housing opportunities regard- measures to boost production in Florida, was elected presi- als, we have an obligation to year reign she would embark less of race, creed, or color,” in the agriculture sector. dent of the 35,000-member keep the dream of homeown- on among other things, a Kong said. Over 30 Barbadian busi- National Association of Real ership alive,” said Kong, who major national marketing “Since its inception, nessmen visited Georgetown Estate Brokers (NAREB) at owns the Lauderhill, Florida- campaign to brand the name NAREB has consistently last month as part of the its 60th annual conference in based firm, Markon Realty of NAREB, significantly advocated for and supported trade mission. New York City. and Management Company. increase the membership base legislation to ensure fair hous- Kong also became only “Seven-hundred homes and forge new partnerships to ing for all Americans,” she ® the second woman to lead the owned by African-Americans increase opportunities for added. trade association. in foreclosure status is unac- members. ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com POLITICS U.S. seeks closer relationship T&T general elections Nov. 5 PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, last 36-member Parliament, the with Muslim groups in Caribbean CMC – Prime Minister Patrick People’s National Movement Manning has announced Nov. (PNM) controlled 20 seats with BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, climate of mutual respect,” we hope will be a mutually 5 as the date for general elec- the remainder going to the CMC – Muslim leaders from the ambassador said. beneficial relationship tions in Trinidad and Tobago. United National Congress and several Caribbean islands last “On this special evening between your embassy and In a brief statement to the minority Congress of the month attended a ceremony we recognize our Muslim us”. Parliament on Sept. 28, People (COP), a breakaway hosted by the United States friends in the Eastern Bulbulia said events like Manning said that Nomination faction of the UNC. aimed at improving relations Caribbean. We celebrate the the Iftaar “goes a long way in Day is Oct. 22. and “cementing ties of friend- millions of Muslims we are building a climate of trust, This will be the first time T&T ready to vote, page 25. ship”. proud to call American citi- cordial relations and correct- that Trinidadians will vote for a A statement issued by the zens. We honor the many ing feelings of antagonism 41-member Parliament. In the ® U.S. Embassy here said that Islamic nations that America and mistrust. Ambassador Mary Ourisman is proud to call friends. And “While we may not agree hosted an “Iftaar banquet” we renew the ties of friend- with all the policies and pro- Sir John Compton, St. Lucia’s for the Muslim leaders from ship that should bind all who grams of the American gov- Antigua and Barbuda, trace their faith back to God’s ernment and while there are Barbados, St. Lucia and call on Abraham.” some who will use these dis- ‘Father of the Nation’, is dead St. Kitts and Nevis. agreements to promote a the- “One of our country’s ‘SPECIAL’ ory of a clash of civilizations, CASTRIES, St. Lucia - Sir greatest strengths is the diver- The statement quoted the cultures and faiths, tonight by John Compton, St. Lucia’s sity and richness of our many secretary of the Barbados our gathering we promote “Father of the Nation”, died religious traditions: Christians, Muslim Association (BMA) instead a dialogue among civi- early last month at age 82, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Sulieman Bulbulia as saying lizations, cultures and faiths plunging the country he led for Buddhists, people of many that the event was a “special based upon mutual respect over 30 years into two weeks faiths, and even some of no and significant gesture” and and tolerance,” he added. of mourning declared by the religious affiliation at all live marked a “defining moment government in his honor. together peacefully and in a in the establishment of what ® Acting Prime Minister Stephenson King was sworn in on Sept. 9 as the island’s new prime minister. P.M. Golding makes unity call Sir John became the Compton country’s first prime minister after leading St. Lucia to Workers Party (UWP) to a as he takes office in Jamaica political Independence in stunning victory in last KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - General Professor Feb. 1979. He led the country December’s general elections. Orrett Bruce Golding took Kenneth Hall and from 1964-1979, 1982-1996 office as Jamaica’s eighth in the presence of and from Dec. 2006. NO ‘MARATHON’ prime minister on Sept. 11, thousands of people He served as chief minis- However, when Sir John pleading with his predecessor on the grounds of ter, premier and prime minis- led the UWP back into the to join hands in a new politics King’s House – the ter at various periods. He corridors of power in of cooperation, while pledging governor general’s returned from political retire- December, he made it clear to introduce measures to official residence - ment to lead his United (CONTINUED ON PAGE 19) stamp out corruption and ris- the new prime min- ing crime and drive economic ister said the garri- growth in the country. son-type politics Ex-ruling party official wins The 59-year-old leader which characterized said the Sept. 3 general elec- political life here Opposition primary in Antigua tions, in which his Jamaica should be a thing of Labour Party (JLP) ended 18 the past. ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – best represent their interest, A former member of the who can best champion their years in Opposition when it Golding takes the oath of office. “We must secured a narrow victory over retire the culture ruling United Progressive cause, who can best mediate Party (UPP) has gained the on their behalf,” she said. the Portia Simpson Miller-led prosperous. I want to sit down where one set of Opposition Antigua Labour “I think that democracy is People’s National Party with you, Portia. Jamaicans speak of ‘the gov- Party’s (ALP) backing as the alive and well in the country. I (PNP), demonstrated the “Let’s talk about Jamaica. ernment dem’ as if it were a party sets about choosing can- really think that the people of need for a paradigm shift Let’s talk about the dream hostile, alien force. I want to didates to contest the next St. George’s will have to from competitive politics into that I believe we share for a see a new order in which all general elections in Antigua decide. We have a very healthy nation-building initiatives in Jamaica whose people are at the people will regard the and Barbuda. democracy in Antigua and governance. peace with each other, where government, no matter which ALP officials confirmed Barbuda and I certainly wel- “In our two pairs of equality and justice reign party forms it, as ‘our govern- that Dean Jonas had secured 148 come any challenge – it doesn’t hands (he told Simpson Miller supreme, where every child ment’,” the prime minister of the 314 ballots cast last month matter who it is,” she added. who was seated in the audi- can go to a good school and said. to select the candidate for the St. Jonas had served as UPP ence) rest so much of the every adult to a decent job, Pledging that he would be George’s constituency. public relations officer until he hopes of the people of where everyone might not be the chief servant of the peo- Jonas defeated attorney left the party in 2004. Jamaica. We have a choice. rich, but no one has to be ple, Golding said within the Alincia Williams Grant, who “I grew up in the Antigua Those hands can engage in poor,” he said. first 100 days of his adminis- hand-to-hand combat or we tration, policy initiatives received 105 votes, while busi- Labour Party. I left the Antigua nessman Kendall Samuel got Labour Party to join the UPP can join those hands together ANTI-GARRISON would be developed to point 62 votes. because like many young per- to build a nation that is Speaking after taking the the way towards how govern- He later told the sons in Antigua who grew up in strong, just, peaceful and oath of office before Governor ment could protect the rights of the people; reduce crime; Caribbean Media Corporation Antigua, I saw one party in create an educated, produc- (CMC) that he was confident power for the past 30 years and tive workforce and attract of defeating the incumbent Dr. many of us simply wanted a investments that could pro- Jacqui Quinn-Leandro in the change in government,” he said. vide “real jobs.” He said poli- polls scheduled for 2009. “Yes I did, in fact, leave cy papers would also be creat- “I’ve really worked hard to and join the UPP simply ed to improve transparency gain the confidence of the peo- because I wanted a change. and accountability in govern- ple of St. George’s,” he said. There were many young per- ment while eliminating cor- Though Quinn-Leandro sons like myself who just ruption; move towards a opted not to comment on the wanted to see something dif- strong Parliament and more ALP candidate’s statement, ferent – different but better – effective political representa- she said she welcomed the but what we got was different challenge. and worse.” “The people of my con- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 19) stituency will decide who can ®

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POLITICS www.caribbeantoday.com Congresswoman Clarke lashes Bush’s Iraq war plan Jamaica names 18-member Cabinet KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - Prime • Minister of Agriculture - Christopher FITZGERALD SMITH tional $50 billion from the bring home an Army combat Minister Bruce Golding named an 18- Tufton American people to continue brigade, for a total force member Cabinet. • Minister of Energy, Mining and ongresswoman Yvette D. staying-the-course in this war,” reduction of 5,700 troops by Following is the full Cabinet: Telecommunications - Clive Mullings Clarke, who is backed by Clarke added. Christmas,” he added. • Prime Minister, Minister of Planning, • Minister of Water and Housing – Dr. a strong Caribbean immi- “And...by July, we will be able Development and Defense - Bruce Horace Chang C Golding • Minister of Labour and Social Security - NEGATIVE RESPONSE to reduce our troop levels in grant constituency in New York, • Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Pearnel Charles is urging United States President The president’s highly antic- Iraq from 20 combat brigades Foreign Affairs and Trade – Dr. Kenneth • Minister of Transport and Works - George W. Bush to pull U.S. ipated speech incited negative to 15.” Baugh Michael Henry troops out of Iraq and send them responses from Democratic • Minister of Finance and the Public • Minister of Health and Environment - back home to their families. leaders and U.S. Senate hope- TURMOIL Service - Audley Shaw Rudyard Spencer Clarke, whose parents are fuls alike, all expressing their However, Clarke added • Minister of National Security - Derrick • Minister of Information, Culture, Youth Jamaican, said in an address to dissatisfaction with the presi- that although reports indicate Smith and Sports - Olivia Grange • Attorney-General and Minister of • Minister in the Office of the Prime the media last month shortly dent’s plan to continue pursuits improvements in Iraq, particu- in the war-torn Middle Eastern larly in the Anbar province, Justice - Dorothy Lightbourne Minister - James Robertson after the president’s Sept. 13 • Minister of Industry and Commerce - • Minister in the Ministry of Finance and nationally broadcast speech to country. This the majority of the country Karl Samuda the Public Service - Don Wehby Americans, that the Bush plan, he noted, remains in turmoil. • Minister of Education - Andrew • Minister in the Ministry of Finance and administration seems too is the result of “For Iraqis, the cost of the Holness the Public Service - Dwight Nelson focused on the war in Iraq a successful war has meant great suffering,” • Minister of Tourism - Edmund Bartlett and should pay more attention strategy imple- the congresswoman said. “The to the issues of the nation. mented some president began the war under P.M. Golding makes unity call “Clearly, this administra- months ago, the premise of helping the peo- tion favors spending our hard- which allowed ple of Iraq, but after all this time, (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18) the challenges that his gov- ernment would face, it intend- earned money on sending U.S. troops to they remain in great trauma.” tion and eliminate unneces- ed to honor campaign com- Americans into a hot desert maximize According to her, recent sary bureaucracy and waste Clarke mitments to abolish the pay- and harms way than on build- efforts and reports have also indicated that of public resources. ment of school tuition fees ing a stronger country at further actions taken by the Bush admin- “I ask the Jamaican peo- and fees at public hospitals. home,” said Clarke, who repre- progress. istration to restore order to ple to appreciate that the Concerning the vexed issue of sents the 11th Congressional “Eight months ago we Iraq have made little difference. commitment we intend to adopted a new strategy to meet Additionally, she said, there have corruption, Golding pledged District in Brooklyn. honor during the first 100 that objective, including a surge been at least 27,564 Iraqi deaths to make a difference by “There are 37 million days are, of necessity, those in U.S. forces that reached full due violence because of the war, implementing stiff penalties Americans living below the which do not require a signif- strength in June,” Bush raising the question of whether or for violators. He also noted poverty line. Six million chil- icant outlay of government explained. “(Last month), not the was was doing more harm that the government would dren across America do not expenditure,” Golding said. General David Petraeus and than good. introduce whistleblower legis- have health care, including “The financial constraints Ambassador Ryan Crocker tes- “All of the lives, time, and lation to protect persons who 384,000 children in the State of and fiscal challenges that we tified before Congress about money invested on the war, provided information on New York yet, just weeks ago, face are well known and the how that strategy is improving.” and the Iraqi government has wrongdoing on the part of when Democrats in Congress medium and long term solu- According to the presi- earned what would be a dis- public officials and would also passed programs that would tions will have to be pursued dent, because of this strategy mally failing grade in any class- review the libel and slander have cost only a fraction of the over time,” he said. the situation in Iraq is improv- room,” she said. laws of the country. president’s war request to help However, the new prime fight poverty and to guarantee ing and the U.S. stands current minister sought to assure the health insurance for children, with its goal of securing the Fitzgerald Smith is a freelance ® nation that even in the face of the president threatened to Iraqi population; a goal which writer for Caribbean Today. veto these bills, claiming they he also says will eventually are too expensive. Now the require less U.S. forces. ® president is requesting an addi- “It will soon be possible to P.M.King rejects call for early general elections in St. Lucia CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC - and early general elections is Prime Minister Stephenson not anywhere on the cards. King has ruled out the possibil- Instead, he said the focus of ity of early general elections to his administration is on doing obtain his own mandate from the job it was elected to do. the people of St. Lucia. “The mission of the gov- King, who was sworn in as ernment is to ensure that we prime minister recently follow- implement the vision of Sir ing the Sept. 7 death of Sir John as we move on with the John Compton, made this posi- business of the country,” King tion clear as the country pre- told reporters pares for a by-election in the “In terms of the timing of Micoud North constituency a general election that is far that was represented by the from my mind, what is on my late prime minister. mind now, is to fulfill the Speaking prior to leaving King being sworn in as prime minister. promises that were made in the island to address the the last general election.” United Nations General said the current mandate of Assembly last month, King the government is still fresh, ® Sir John Compton, St. Lucia’s ‘Father of the Nation’, is dead

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18) The decision to go with decision to return him home King as head of the government on Sept. 5. He died on Sept. 7. that he was not there for a was agreed to by all 10 elected A state funeral was held “marathon.” Sir John was off members of the ruling UWP. for the late leader last month. the job since May when he suf- Early last month doctors Sir John leaves to mourn fered a series of small strokes in Martinique, where Sir John his wife Lady Compton and and handed over day-to-day had been airlifted for medical five children. running of the government to treatment, determined that King. It was reported that he there was nothing more med- Compiled from CMC reports. was also battling other compli- ically they could do to improve cations, such as diabetes, and a his condition, leading to the ® long-standing heart condition.

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www.caribbeantoday.com REGION Ex-Surinamese military dictator The Bahamas is richest among 25 to be tried for killings in Caribbean ~ website PARAMARIBO, Suriname, scholars, lawyers and universi- had also ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Cuba, ninth with GDP of CMC - The highly anticipated ty professors. called for CMC – The Bahamas has $3,900; and Grenada, 10th trial of 25 people implicated amnesty for been ranked as the richest with a GDP of $3,900. in the Dec. 1982 extrajudicial APOLOGY the alleged country in the Caribbean killing of 15 political oppo- In 2000 the Court of suspects in by a Canadian website - EXEMPTIONS nents of the then military Justice ordered the prosecutor the extrajudi- Aneki.com. Under its ranking, regime is to start on Nov. 30, general to start a criminal cial killings The site, which derives Guyana and Suriname, which sources close to process here investigation into the extraju- which led to its information from numer- are Caribbean community have revealed. dicial killings after relatives an interna- Bouterse ous sources, including United (CARICOM) countries, were “I can confirm that the put forward a request in order tional boy- Nations agencies and the put with the South American Military Court has decided to to block the limitation to pros- cott of his United States’ Central states, placing sixth and ninth start the 8 December Trial on ecute the case. In June a court administration and a with- Intelligence Agency’s World respectively. Friday November 30,” said handed down a ruling order- drawal of military support Factbook, ranked The In the category of spokesperson, Marjory ing the prosecution of 10 sus- from the United States and Bahamas at number one with richest countries in the world, Sanches. pects who were fighting a the Netherlands. a $21,300 per capita Gross Luxembourg came in first Surviving relatives and legal battle to be taken off the Bouterse said the entire Domestic Product (GDP). with $68,800 per capita GDP. human rights organizations, in list of suspects in relation to Surinamese community Trinidad and Tobago was Equatorial Guinea, United a first response, voiced relief the extrajudicial killings. In should be part in seeking the ranked as the second richest Arab Emirates, Norway, with the announcement of the March the former military dic- truth of that “dark chapter in with a GDP of $19,700, a Ireland, United States, trial date. tator publicly apologized to Suriname’s history.” The for- position which would usually Andorra, Iceland, Denmark On Dec. 8, 1982, 15 politi- the surviving relatives of dead. mer dictator said he wanted have been held by Barbados, and Austria followed in cal opponents of the military “I am apologizing to all to tell the young people his which now ranks at number descending order on the list. junta, led by than army com- the surviving relatives,” said side of the story since, accord- mander Desi Bouterse, were Bouterse at a meeting with ing to him, representations of three with a GDP of $18,200. The sites also put heart tortured and ultimately exe- youth to mark the 27th the events back then by politi- Aneki.com ranks Antigua disease as the leading cause of cuted by military officers. anniversary of his successful cal opponents were false. and Barbuda as fourth, with a death; cancer as second; respi- Amongst the victims were 1980 coup. GDP of $10,900; St. Kitts and ratory infections and lung dis- union leaders, journalists, The former army chief ® Nevis, fifth with a GDP of ease as third and fourth; and $8,200; Dominican Republic, HIV/AIDS as fifth. Traffic sixth with a GDP of $8,000; accidents were ranked at T&T’s attorney general refuses to testify St. Lucia, seventh, with a number 10. GDP of $4,800; Jamaica, PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, by Chief appointed by the Judicial and eight, with GDP of $4,600; ® CMC – A tribunal set up to Magistrate Legal Service Commission to investigate allegations of wrong Sherman investigate a land transaction doing against embattled Chief McNicolls of deal involving McNicolls. In Bermuda names Dame Lois Justice Satnarine Sharma failed trying to the letter Jeremie said he to hear testimony from Attorney influence his “refer to the observation General John Jeremie as well as decision in made by the chairman of the country’s first National Hero two top business executives who the case tribunal that an imputation HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC leader until 1972 and again have all been implicated for their against for- Sharma has been made by counsel for - Government has announced from 1976 to 1985. The PLP alleged role in the efforts to mer Prime the chief justice that the attor- that former Opposition Leader won power for the first time in remove the head of the Trinidad Minister Basdeo Panday, ney general has been a willing Dame Lois Browne Evans 1998. and Tobago judiciary from who was on three charges of and active participant and will become the country’s first Dame Lois died on May office. failing to declare a London possibly the instigator of a National Hero and the May 24 29, shortly before her 80th The three-member tribu- bank account to the Integrity cynical plot to wreck the trial Bermuda Day holiday will be birthday, and was laid to rest at nal headed by retired Privy Commission for three years of Mr. Panday”. renamed National Heroes Day. the Anglican Council Judge Lord Mustill, as while he was head of govern- The attorney general said The new combined court Cathedral well as St. Lucian jurist Sir ment in 1997, 1998 and 1999. there was no truth to these and police building in Hamilton during a spe- Vincent Floissac and Jamaican McNicholls found Panday allegations and that he found is also to be named after Dame cially called Dennis Morrison, had invited guilty of the charges. no evidence of alleged con- Lois, who died earlier this year, national holi- Jeremie to make an appear- spiracies and as a result could government said. day on June 6. ance before them on the LETTER not assist the tribunal other A bronze statue or bust in More than penultimate day of the public Senior Counsel Douglas than to refer to statements he the likeness of Dame Lois will 1,000 people hearings late last month. Mendes, who is representing previously made. But Queen also be erected at the new attended the President George Maxwell Jeremie, submitted a letter to Counsel Geoffrey Robertson, building, according to Minister church serv- Dame Lois Richards had suspended Sharma the secretary of the tribunal who is leading Sharma’s of Community and Cultural ice. from his duties on June 13, 2007 along with a statement, dated defense, said that it would be Affairs Wayne Perinchief. Perinchief asked the public until the hearing and determina- July 28, 2006 that the attorney in the best interest of the In a press release, Premier for their suggestions on how tion of the impeachment pro- general gave to High Court attorney general to testify and Ewart Brown said: “Dame best to commemorate the life ceedings. Judge Humphrey Stollmeyer. explain his role in the matter. Lois long believed there was a of Dame Lois and her contribu- Sharma had been accused Justice Stollymeyer had been need to instill national pride in tions to Bermuda back in July. ® our people. I share that belief, By Aug. 17, 101 submissions and in a very strong way this had arrived at the Ministry of Jamaica vows to handle abuse allegations against cops government has made Dame Community and Cultural Lois’ wish come true. Affairs. Among the most popu- KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – of allegations of abuse and Civilian Oversight Authority, the “She would have never lar was a national public holi- Prime Minister Bruce Golding unlawful conduct against mem- Bureau of Special Investigations chosen herself for this sort of day in honor of Dame Lois and has called for the establish- bers of the security forces by and the Office of Professional adulation. I’m proud we could naming the new court and ment of a single independent the public. responsibilities and recommend do it for her because she did so police building after Dame body that will investigate all A statement issued here on appropriate changes,” Golding much for all of Bermuda.” Lois. Those recommendations were accepted by Cabinet. cases of abuse and unlawful Sept. 22 said that Golding has said. FIRST LADY Perinchief said: “The pub- conduct by members of the called for a report is to be sub- “The government will Dame Lois was Bermuda’s lic response has been highly security forces in Jamaica. mitted to him outlining the do everything possible to first female barrister, Bermuda’s gratifying in recognizing the Golding met with Attorney legal and administrative steps strengthen and support the first female attorney general, achievements of Dame Lois General Dorothy Lightbourne, required to establish the police in combating crime and and the first woman to become and reflects the profound as well as the solicitor general, authority. in the lawful execution of their Opposition leader in a British respect for a Bermudian trail- the chief parliamentary counsel “This report will take duties. However this cannot be Commonwealth country when blazer who fought for honor and officials from the Ministry into account the existence and at the expense of the constitu- she became leader of the now and justice.” of Justice, to discuss the issue in respective roles of the Police tional rights of the people.” ruling Progressive Labour Party light of the increased number Public Complaints Authority, the ® (PLP) in 1968. She served as ®

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ARTS/ ENTERTAINMENT www.caribbeantoday.com ‘The Harder They Come’ to highlight ‘Umbrella’ covers Rihanna with MTV Caribbean Int’l Film Fest Nov. 7-11 music awards special screening of at the festival. The screening Barbadian-born singer Rihanna the classic Jamaican of the film will be accompa- used her hit single “Umbrella” to Afilm “The Harder nied by a special screening snare two coveted honors at last They Come” will be among of “The Making of the month’s MTV Music Video Awards the highlights of the Harder They Come”. in Las Vegas, United States. Caribbean International Film For more information “Umbrella”, a collaboration Festival next month in about the festival, the events, featuring American rapper Jay-Z, Barbados. industry accreditations as well won the coveted “Video of the The festival, scheduled as volunteer and sponsorship Year” award, plus “Monster Single for Nov. 7-11, will parade fea- opportunities at the festival, of the Year”. Justin Timberlake ture-length and short films, visit the official website: was the VMA’s big winner, with and music video entries from www.caribbeaninternational- four trophies. the region and internationally. filmfestival.com or email Rihanna “The Harder They info@caribbeaninternational- Come”, credited with being filmfestival.com. Jamaica’s first feature film, directed by the late Perry ENTERTAINMENT BRIEFS was written, produced and Henzell, who will be honored ® • Carnival hits Miami on round of negotiations for Economic Oct. 7 Partnership Agreements between The colorful and exciting culture of African Caribbean and Pacific Winkler and ‘Dog War’ set for Miami book fair the Caribbean will again be on States (ACP) and the European show in South Florida during the Union (EU). GORDON WILLIAMS its own creative independ- write mainly for Jamaicans 23rd staging of the Miami Carnival More than a dozen Vincentian ence, unburdening itself from because I am Jamaican. But on Oct. 7. entertainers were scheduled to aribbean people still the weight of expectations really, when it comes down to The event, featuring costume perform at a five-hour concert, remember him as the originating elsewhere. it, I write for myself. If I like parades and live music bands, will organized by OXFAM, the Caribbean Cman behind “The “I think it is the lack of a it, I figure somebody else will run from noon to 11 p.m. at Policy Development Centre (CPDC) Lunatic”. Jamaican-born strong literary tradition that like it.” Bicentennial Park in downtown Miami and the Windward Island Farmers author Anthony C. Winkler is “Dog War” will certainly and the city is claiming that the fes- Association (WINFA), which is part perfectly sane – of course – get many people’s attention. tivities embody the unity of the of the global “Stop EPA Day” activi- but his latest novel “Dog War” And Winkler is pleased that diverse cultures that it represents. ties organized to focus attention on is so funny, it borders on crazy. more and more Caribbean peo- The event will kick off with a the EPA negotiations which must So next month Winkler, ple are trying to write, especial- parade of bands and costumes and be concluded by the Dec. 2007 armed with his hilarious tale ly Jamaicans, who he believes feature Caribbean and international deadline. of a Jamaican woman strug- are capable of excelling at any- food, beverages and arts and gling with her cultural and thing they attempt. crafts. Top Caribbean performers • Cuba, Suriname strengthen religious beliefs, and the test- “One of the things I will are scheduled for the event For cultural links ing times she faces with her say about Jamaicans and more information, call 305-653- Suriname and Cuba have signed an employer’s dog, will be among every field they get into, writ- 1877 or visit agreement, which government offi- several authors from the ing included,” he explained, www.MiamiCarnival.net. cials say will strengthen cultural region expected to be present “when they good, they good. cooperation between the two coun- at the Miami International - Photograph by Gordon Williams They really good.” • Vincentian entertainers join tries. The pact will facilitate Book Fair from Nov. 4-11. Winkler relaxes in his Atlanta home. global campaign exchange programs for artists and This year’s fair will carry a Gordon Williams is Caribbean Entertainers in St. Vincent and the technical personnel. new feature, “the Translation gives us (in the Caribbean) Today’s managing editor. Grenadines last month joined Market”, dubbed as “a world the freedom to experiment as ® regional agriculturists and non gov- Compiled from CMC and other literature and translation sum- writers,” said the 62-year-old ernmental organizations to support sources. mit”. Yet it is the accomplish- novelist and textbook writer. a global move to halt the current ments of authors like Winkler “Because we don’t have a ® that will give the fair - and its Shakespeare looking over Putting pen to paper base in downtown Miami - a your shoulder. And you don’t The following Caribbean authors ‘Space’ dominates artist’s familiar Caribbean feel. have someone who is such a (with some their works listed) Winkler and others believe wonderful example and you were also invited to the 2007 the world is more ready than can’t cope.” Miami International Book Fair: exhibition opening Oct. 11 ever to embrace Caribbean lit- Winkler’s “Dog War”, like erary works. his other works such as “The • Opal Palmer Adisa – “I Name or the first time in close works, about 30 paintings and “Yeah, I think there is a Lunatic”, “The Painted Me Name: Lola” and “Until to a decade, art enthusi- 25 drawings, will be displayed, greater opening,” he said. Canoe”, “Going Home To Judgment Comes: Stories About Fasts will get a chance to including titled works It’s been long overdue, Teach” and “The Duppy”, Jamaican Men” see the works of the “Construction in Space” and despite the region’s shortcom- reflects the Caribbean experi- • Jane Bryce – “Chameleon: Short Dominican Republic’s Julio “Love in Space”. ings. ence. It is about the region’s Stories” and “Caribbean Dispatches: Susana in the United States. “This work is innovative, “One of the things that people and, although crafted Beyond the Tourist Dream” The painter, sculptor and and very creative,” the artist surprises me about the West with every writer’s goal to reach • Oonya Kempadoo – “Tide professor’s last American exhib- said in a recent press release. Indies is that we have two the widest possible audience, it Running” it was in Coral Gables in 1999. “It’s figurative, incorporating Nobel Laureates in litera- is written with Caribbean peo- • Philip Nanton – “Caribbean He returns to that South elements in space.” ture,” Winkler explained. “I ple in mind as well. Dispatches: Beyond the Tourist Florida city this month to unveil Susana, who describes his think that’s astounding when “The writer wants to Dream” his newest collection of paint- work as “his imagination flour- • Geoffrey Philp – “Grandpa you think of such small popu- strike a universial note,” he ings at the Mila Hajjar Gallery. ishing in art,” has enjoyed Sydney’s Anancy Stories” lations compared with some said. “…We always want to The exhibition runs from favorable review from Latin • Howard Pitterson – “Spectre of of the bigger countries and write to the widest possible Oct. 11 through Nov. 8. American critics. La Prensa audience.” Seven” Earlier this year, Susana called his paintings “eloquent” the poverty, and the lack of • Kim Robinson – “Out of Order!” But, cut to the core, exhibited “Colores de mi Tierra” and “passionate”, classifying facilities.” • Marina Salandy – Brown Winkler is enjoying himself (“Colors of My Land”) at the him as an “outstanding figure “Caribbean Dispatches: Beyond the with his writings, hoping that of Dominican art.” SUCCESS SIGNS Tourist Dream” Secretaria de Estado de Cultura the reader comes along for a Mila Hajjar Gallery is Yet Winkler seems to • Robert Edison Sandiford – in Santo Domingo. He’s return- located at 32 Giralda Ave., have the answer for the fun ride. “Shouts from the Outfield: ing to the U.S. with “Fiesta de Caribbean’s literary success. “No, I don’t just write for Colores Tropicales” (“Festival of Coral Gables, FL 33134. Despite years of colonialism, Jamaicans,” he explained last Tropical Colors”) at Mila Hajjar. For more information, he explained, the region still month from his home in an ® visit www.juliosusana.com. managed to wriggle free with Atlanta, Georgia suburb. “I SPACE The artist’s most recent ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com SPORT Jamaica’s Powell breaks Barbadian crowned English pro cricket’s MVP LONDON, Sep 24, CMC – also against Hampshire – in for me. 100 meters world record Ottis Gibson has won a major the limited-overs trophy final. “I’ve bowled well without RIETI, Italy, CMC – Jamaican award in Britain. Gibson leapt well clear any pressure, and when I go on Asafa Powell majestically The former Barbados and of his nearest rivals – the the field I always try to make a smashed his own world 100- West Indies all-rounder has Pakistani leg-spinners Mushtaq massive contribution to the meter record in a sizzling 9.74 been named the winner of Ahmed and Danish Kaneria - team. It’s a team effort and seconds at the Rieti interna- the inaugural Professional as he also claimed the PCA I’ve led the bowling attack this tional track and field meeting Cricketers’ Association Most Bowling MVP award. Gibson year, which is what was last month. Valuable Player ended the season required.” Lined up against a moder- award. with 735.97 points, The Most Valuable Player ate field in only a qualifying Gibson helped 135.67 clear of award was launched by the heat, Powell sped out of the Durham to secure Mushtaq and 178.49 PCA this year to provide a blocks and dominated the event, two major domes- ahead of Kaneria. more reliable and accurate slicing 0.03 seconds off the pre- tic trophies with a means of assessing a player’s vious best of 9.77 seconds, which number of match- REWARDING performance, rewarding each he has run on three occasions. Powell finishes his world record run. winning perform- “Certainly for run, wicket and catch. Aided by a legal 1.7 ances. The 38-year- me, the last couple of meters-per-second following Championships in Japan, old gathered 723 years spent coaching ® wind, Powell finished ahead of when he finished third behind runs and collected has made a difference Gambia-born Saidy Ndure American Tyson Gay and 116 wickets in all to my approach to Jaysuma and St. Kitts and Derrick Atkins of The competitions, but the way I play now,” ‘Soca Warriors’ remain Nevis’s former world champion Bahamas. But the big Jamaican he scored 578 runs Gibson told the BBC. Kim Collins, who recorded appeared re-energized by his and snared 80 “Sometimes on top in region’s soccer 10.07 seconds and 10.14 sec- feat and embraced the moment. wickets – including Gibson you may search a life- PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, Sep 19, onds, respectively. “Today I proved to the 10 for 47 against time for what you CMC –Trinidad and Tobago’s “Soca The record was a mild world that Asafa is back,” Hampshire – in the County might consider is perfection. If Warriors” remained on top of the consolation for Powell’s huge Powell said after the race on Championship proper. He also I look back, this year has cer- Caribbean Football Union’s (CFU) Sept 9. soccer rankings, collated from the disappointment just weeks won the man-of-the-match tainly been that way. It has September rankings released by before at the 11th IAAF World award for his three for 24 – probably been a perfect season soccer’s world governing body FIFA ® last month. Below is the Caribbean listing, Bajan racehorse connection hoping for Kentucky Derby success with the world ranking in brackets: ETOBICOKE, Canada – One rider,” Casse said of fortunate. Right now we are 1. Trinidad and Tobago (64) of Canada’s leading trainers Husbands recently. leading again this year. Last 2. Cuba (71) Mark Casse is hoping top Casse, whose stable is year we won the Sovereign 3. Haiti (83) Barbadian rider Patrick based at the Woodbine race- Award,” Casse said. 4. Jamaica (96) Husbands lands success in a “I hope to 5. St Vincent & the Grenadines (97) major race in North America see Eugene 6. Guyana (103) 7. Barbados (109) soon. win his first 8. Antigua & Barbuda (131) Casse, who is the number Sovereign 9. Bermuda (135) one trainer for Barbados- Award as lead- 10. Dominican Republic (139) based Canadian businessman ing owner this 11. Suriname (143) Eugene Melnyk, has notched year and possi- 12. St Kitts & Nevis (146) up several major wins in Husbands after won of his many suc- bly leading 13. Grenada (162) Canada with Husbands and cesses in Canada. breeder. 14. St Lucia (163) says he was eyeing the presti- “That’s big, 15. Bahamas (168) racehorse owner in North gious Kentucky Derby. it’s big for us to 16. British Virgin Islands (179) America, has developed a 17. Turks & Caicos Islands (181) “I see us maybe possibly be that (leading trend of naming his horses 18. Netherlands Antilles (182) winning the Kentucky Derby breeder) in after communities in 19. Dominica (186) and those things and nothing Canada but I Barbados. 20. Cayman Islands (188) would make me happier than Barbadian jockeys fight to the finish. Jono Jones gets up on think Eugene 21. Puerto Rico (195) to have Mr. Husbands sitting the rail with Essential Edge to beat Sealy Hill with Husbands and myself and 22. Anguilla (197) ‘GREAT RIDER’ on top of him with the roses,” by a neck in the CAN$351,600 Canadian Stakes last month at Laura Melnyk – 23. U.S. Virgin Islands (200) Husbands rode his first Casse told CMC Sports. Woodbine in Toronto. she’s a big part 23. Montserrat (200) Kentucky Derby last year, Recently, Husbands guid- of it also – I 23. Aruba (200) getting the leg up aboard ed Marchfield, a Melnyk- track, said the current season hope to see us not just in Casse’s Seaside Retreat, but owned, Casse-trained three- had gone well and was antici- Canada but in all of North finished down the field. year-old colt, to victory in the pating more success for America.” “I don’t think there’s any- Breeders’ Stakes. Melnyk and his connections. SPORT BRIEFS body better. He’s a great Melnyk, a prominent “Right now we’ve been ® • WICB, Stanford 20/20 strike deal The West Indies Cricket Board and the …Husbands claims Triple Crown after Sealy Hill wins appeal Stanford 20/20 Board of Directors have agreed to a five-year franchise ETOBICOKE, Canada, CMC businessman Eugene Melnyk, son at Woodbine and handed “Everybody knows it was deal that will allow the Stanford 20/20 – Sealy Hill, the champion had impeded Quiet Jungle at him the Triple Crown. tough being on the (witness) regional tournament to become part three-year old filly, was rein- the eighth pole. The race was “I am happy and proud stand and getting questioned of the WICB’s annual cricket calendar stated the winner of the Bison awarded to Street Sounds about it. It was a hard blow to over and over but it turned in the Caribbean, along with the one- City Stakes, after the Ontario with Sealy Hill relegated to Eugene and it was a hard out in my favor.” day and four-day tournaments. Racing Commission upheld third. blow to myself and Mark Sealy Hill, named after a • Millionaire backs Grenada’s the connections’ appeal at a Husbands and Sealy Hill’s Casse who is also the trainer,” small community in Barbados, sailing fest hearing late last month. trainer, Mark Casse, appealed Husbands told CMC Sports. claimed the Triple Crown The millionaire who led Britain’s Sealy Hill, with top the decision and arbitrators, “This is the filly that was after winning the $500 000 America’s Cup challenge in l983 is Barbadian jockey Patrick after hearing evidence from the first to win the Triple Woodbine Oaks on June 10 backing Grenada’s efforts to raise the Husbands aboard, was dis- Husbands on Sept. 26, over- Crown. Last year I went close, and claiming the final race, profile of its premier sailing festival. Investor Peter Desavory has qualified after winning the turned the stewards’ decision. I won the first two legs of the the Wonder Where Stakes, on agreed to a three-year contract with CAN$250 000 event on July 1 Triple Crown (but) I rode the July 28. The Ontario Racing festival organizers to be title sponsor this year at the Woodbine TOP JOCK last leg and got beaten. So Commission said it would of the Grenada Sailing Festival racetrack. The decision gave now I got the chance to win release the reasons behind scheduled for Jan. 5-29, 2008. Stewards had ruled that Husbands a remarkable 18th all three races and they took their decision some time in Sealy Hill, owned by the stakes win for the season, the away one from me which was the future. Compiled from CMC and other sources. Barbados-based Canadian most by any jockey this sea- uncalled for. ® ®

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CARGO AND FREIGHT www.caribbeantoday.com ~ A Caribbean Today advertising feature Christmas rush is on for cargo shipping to the Caribbean GORDON WILLIAMS the peak of the festive season, to ship later than two weeks October and December. While tionally like to take advantage they should make sure the con- into December to avoid the the promotion originally tied in of the Christmas rush as well. he peak season for sending tainers are shipped no later Christmas backlog.” with this month’s 10th anniver- Many travel from the region to goodies to the Caribbean than the second week in sary celebration of Laparkan’s buy goods from popular U.S. Tfor Christmas is already December. The high volume of BULK business with Jamaica Trading wholesalers like Costco, Sam’s here. Most deliveries to the Services, a brokerage firm, it Club and BJ’s, which offer According region take anywhere between was stretched further to capi- good deals especially at certain to sources in three days and two weeks. An talize on the seasonal rush. times of the year like the post- the cargo ship- estimated 70 percent of the con- “We decided to extend it Thanksgiving period. ping industry, tainers sent to the Caribbean as a Christmas special,” Edun Caribbean residents also take October unof- leave the U.S. between Oct. 1 said. advantage of special events in ficially marks and Dec. 31. And while most the U.S. to visit the country the start-up countries in the region are BUSY BUYING and shop for goods to be sent served directly by cargo ship- Caribbean people tradi- period for (CONTINUED ON PAGE 24) thousands of ping agencies in the barrels and U.S., three countries other contain- attract the most vol- ers to be sent ume. to the region. “The majority “Christmas goes between is the busiest Jamaica, Guyana and time,” Trinidad,” said Edun, explained “with Jamaica ahead.” Guyanese-born The rising volume Brian Edun, of shipments to the business devel- region over the years opment manag- has also led to er for increased competition Laparkan among the shipping cargo shipping, agencies, with many southeast offering specials dur- region, which ing the busy season. serves areas in Many more barrels like this one will be packed with goodies and According to Edun, sent off to the Caribbean in time for Christmas. the United Laparkan, for exam- States ranging ple, is offering two from North Carolina, Georgia, shipments during the season barrels of foodstuff, Texas, Louisiana and Florida. can lead to heavy delays at worth $250 each, to Sources said the period ports across the region and two lucky winners runs roughly from Oct. 1 to possible delays in delivery. selected each month Dec. 31, but they also advise “A lot of the West Indians from those who ship customers that if they want leave everything for last,” to Jamaica through their goods to reach in time for Edun said. “We ask them not the company between Standards officials seize container of counterfeit goods in Grenada ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC - Collins said a decision was taken to Government officials here say they have issue a warning letter to the importer who seized a 40-foot container packed with said he was unaware of Grenada’s impor- household supplies which violated the tation rules and regulations. island’s labeling and advertising standards. “This is his first offense, so we did not Grenada Bureau of Standard Director take a decision to stop him,” Collins said. Simeon Collins said the container, which was shipped directly from China to DESTROYED Grenada, had products that were extreme- The Bureau of Standards official said ly dangerous for human consumption. that the seized goods would be destroyed “In recent times we have all become in a form that would ensure that they did aware of the dangers of these counterfeit not find they way back on the market. products and when our inspection officers “We will be came across the container it was immedi- working with the ately decided to confiscate the goods,” he Grenada Solid said late last month. Waste Management A large shipment of toothpaste was Authority to ensure among the goods, the official said. that all the goods are totally destroyed,” he FAKE said, while explaining Collins said based on the guidelines that the bureau had set out for identifying Chinese-produced learnt from a recent counterfeit toothpaste, inspectors at the incident in which Port realized that the toothpaste in the some goods which container was fake. were buried found “The only English words on the label their way back on the were a website address and made in market. Egypt, Uganda or South Africa and we “We will do what knew immediately that they were not good it takes to make sure for human use,” he said. that they are not in a He said there were also mosquito condition for human coils, soap, nuts, raisins and preserved fruit use.” with no English written on the labels. ®

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www.caribbeantoday.com CARGO AND FREIGHT ~ A Caribbean Today advertising feature Banana farmers raise shipping concerns Crowley introduces faster over new trade deal with Europe service to Caribbean islands KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent, ing opportunities that might He said he believed the eginning this month, includes vessel calls in CMC - Regional banana open up in Europe. regions’ best interest was not Crowley Maritime Jacksonville on Tuesdays, Port farmers have charged that “Right now we in represented in the current BCorporation’s liner serv- Everglades Thursdays, St. their concerns are not being WINFA, the farmers, have draft and to foster the region’s ices group will enhance its Thomas Sundays, St. Croix addressed in the current draft been investing in a small joint development special and def- service to the Caribbean Mondays, Trinidad Tuesdays, of the new Economic agro processing project, we erential treatment provision islands with the addition of St. Vincent Thursdays, Partnership two new, bigger, faster contain- Barbados Thursdays, and St. Agreement (EPA) er ships - the “Eclips” and Thomas northbound on Fridays to be implemented “Ocean”. before returning to Jacksonville. by the European Each ship offers more Relay services from St. Thomas Union from next capacity and twice the number is provided to Anguilla, January. of reefer plugs - about 160 - Antigua, Montserrat, Nevis, Renwick Rose, than the “Sea Gale” and “Sea Saba, St. Barts, St. Eustatius, St. coordinator of the Cloud”, the ships they are John, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Windward Islands replacing. Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Farmers Association Running at about 18.5 RELAY (WINFA), told an knots, the new ships are about Relay service from audience at a “Stop two knots faster, which should Barbados includes Martinique EPA Day” rally result in even better transit and Guadeloupe; while relay here last month, that times and schedule integrity. “These new ships will ben- service to Canouan, Bermuda the EPA draft being and Tobago is provided as presently negotiated efit our customers in a number of ways,” said Rudy Leming, needed from St. Vincent, by regional govern- Crowley’s vice president of Jacksonville and Trinidad ments missed the Caribbean islands services in a respectively. critical issue of recently issued press release by Crowley’s Caribbean developmental assis- the company. island services allow customers tance from the “First, we’re going to be to ship groceries, department Europeans. He said better equipped to handle cus- store merchandise, building developmental assis- tomers’ need for space during materials, refrigerated and tance should be the frozen goods, household Cargo shipping between the islands need improvement. the peak season and beyond - underpinning of any this includes reefer cargo, goods, vehicles and Freight of agreement negotiat- because we’ll have about twice All Kinds (FAK) in a variety ed on behalf of the region’s are the registered Fair Trade must be written into an EPA the number of shipboard plugs. of equipment including 20-foot people. producers for banana, but we agreement. Second, the speed of the ves- standard and 40-foot standard “Secondly, they say that want to have fair trade European Union trade sels will allow us to provide and high-cube containers, regional integration is part of smoothie, jams, juices and jel- negotiators said last month improved schedule integrity reefers, flat racks and other it, we have proposed that you lies, but to meet European that they were not “steam- with earlier southbound specialized equipment. can’t have access to regional standards there are certain rolling” ACP states to com- arrivals in St. Thomas and St. Jacksonville-based markers when there is no rigid standards,” Rose told plete negotiations for the new Croix, plus we’re able to add a Crowley Maritime Corporation, shipping between the islands,” the hundreds of farmers, rep- EPA deal by year-end, and northbound stop in St. Thomas founded in San Francisco in Rose said. resentatives of non govern- denied suggestions that the to offload Trinidad and 1892, is a privately held family “We have to rely on the mental organizations and new arrangement would hurt Barbados cargoes.” and employee-owned company. banana boat if we want to Vincentians gathered for the the region. Crowley’s weekly, fixed-day ship intra regionally and this event. Caribbean islands service ® is not working out good. We “We want the necessary ® have proposed that, as part of financial and technical assis- the EPA, there should be an tance to develop that capaci- Port Louis Grenada launches sailing festival investment in a regional ship- ty.” ping line withrefrigeration Christopher Sinckler of ore than 200 per- facilities.” the Caribbean Policy sons from Grenada Development Centre, who Mand the rest of the ASSISTANCE also addressed the rally, said Caribbean joined the Port The WINFA official said there were a number of Louis Grenada Sailing regional farmers also needed “major issues to be resolved Festival team and new spon- financial and technical assis- and there are still some con- sors Port Louis Grenada at tance in order to assist them cerns and questions whether the Victory Bar, for the with developing the capacity the regions are going to meet biggest pre-event celebration to take advantage of any trad- that January 31st deadline.” in the history of the festival last month. Among those in atten- Christmas rush is on for cargo dance were Minister of Works Brenda Hood; shipping to the Caribbean Minister of Private Sector Development Einstein (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23) Meanwhile, Edun explained Louison; festival Chairman that while the busiest season for Jimmy Bristol and his team home. Carnival is among the shipping to the Caribbean has and Peter de Savary, chair- main attractions. just kicked off, he has no doubt man and founder of Savvy Yet Christmas is not the it is already welcomed by the Grenada. Peter de Savary, chairman of Port Louis, second left, is joined by, from left, Vivian only time Caribbean people people from the region. Cocktails and cham- Burkhardt, Miss Grenada World 2007; Jennifer Hosten, and Grenadian yachtsman ship goodies home. The period “Families in the Caribbean pagne were followed by Peter “Champie” Evans, during the launch of the sailing festival. just before school opens in the look forward to the stuff,” he speeches as Hood, Bristol region – mainly August – is mented Port Louis Grenada for Jan. 25-29, 2008. said. and de Savary all endorsed popular. Easter is another busy for making a long term com- Port Louis Grenada, a the festival and committed to period for shipping. They also mitment – three years - to creation of de Savary, is an Gordon Williams is Caribbean developing it into one of the target special events in the sponsoring the event. EC$1.5 billion maritime vil- Today’s managing editor. best in the world. Both gov- region – like Cricket World The Port Louis Grenada lage and marina. ernment and the festival Cup 2007 – to stock up on ® Sailing Festival is scheduled goods via shipping. committee members compli- ®

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FEATURE www.caribbeantoday.com Trinidadians get ready to vote for new government in November PETER RICHARDS to defeat the PNM. nearly half of his current legis- finance minister in the UNC secretary general of the “All things are possible lators. But Manning has told government, has raised con- Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – in the fullness of time. The supporters, some of whom cerns over media advertise- the largest Hindu organization Prime Minister Patrick forces united against the have openly rebelled outside ments purporting to come here, reminded Manning of Manning leads his ruling PNM, whether those forces the party’s headquarters in from “independent organiza- what transpired when he held People’s National Movement be officials or individuals, favor of some incumbents, that tions” bashing the Opposition called the 1995 general elec- (PNM) into Nov. 5 general will come together,” said the new crop parties. tions before an East Indian elections hoping to avoid a Opposition Leader Kamla of candidates The Opposition parties festival. He lost. repeat of the 1995 situation Persad Bissessar, a deputy represents a have also questioned The 1.3 million population when he made the bold remark UNC changing of Manning’s decision to call the of Trinidad and Tobago is that his party would “win political leader. the guard. polls on Nov. 5, five days almost evenly divided between alone or lose alone”. The UNC and its alliance Manning before the Hindu festival of the two main races here – the It lost. partners have not named a has already lights, Divali. Afro and Indo Trinidadian. This time the cards appear leader to take them into the outlined a Despite indicating that the The Electoral Boundaries to be in the PNM’s favor, even elections, relying instead on a blueprint for “date incidentally had been Commission (EBC), which is though the newly formed Council of Leaders. The lead- taking this Maharaj: Calling for determined a long time ago,” spending an estimated $3.6 Congress of the People (COP) ership grouping includes for- twin-island unity. Manning will have to ward off million in preparing for the party, headed by the former mer Prime Minister Basdeo republic “into criticism that he was insensi- Nov. 5 poll, said more than Central Bank Governor Panday, who was in court last developed tive to the Indo-Trinidadian 980,000 people would be eligi- Winston Dookeran, is likely to month trying to reverse a deci- country status by 2020” and community for having the cam- ble to vote. It did not give a provide the sion by the Parliament last has told supporters that the paign in the midst of their reli- breakdown regarding race. biggest chal- year to take away the Couva socio-economic benefits that gious festival. lenge to North seat he won in the 2002 they are now reaping are not Satnarine Maharaj, the ® Manning’s hold general elections following his as a result of luck. He has on government conviction on charges of failing pointed to successive PNM in this oil-rich to declare to the Integrity government’s decision to open Caribbean Commission, a London bank the markets and liberalize the community account he held while he economy, provide tax conces- (CARICOM) served as head of government. sions to manufacturers and cut nation. Dookeran: Ready Panday has successfully back on social sector expendi- to rumble. “We are appealed against the convic- ture. ready to rum- tion, and while But the Opposition parties ble,” said Dookeran, who is a the High Court have accused the government former political leader of the has ordered a of spending lavishly on high- main Opposition United re-trial, the 72- rise buildings in the capital and National Congress (UNC). year-old veter- other projects including a rapid A poll conducted by the an politician is rail system that Persad Barbados-based Caribbean facing a num- Bissessar said had been Development Research ber of other plagued with corruption. charges dating Services (CADRES) indicated Persad Bissessar: that the COP poses the pri- back to the The forces will CONTROVERSIES mary threat to the ruling party. 1995-2001 come together. The campaign has already The poll has not been made period when turned up a few controversies. public here, but CADRES his UNC formed the govern- Manning has wondered aloud director and political analyst ment. how the COP has been able to Peter Wickham, speaking on Panday, who has already move from “black and white television here last month, said indicated that he intends advertisements to full color full that a huge majority of eligible “dying with his booths on”, has pages” and said he is prepared voters favor a change of gov- brushed aside calls for him to to allow for the scrutiny of his ernment from the incumbent remove himself from the politi- party finances once the other PNM. cal fray and allow for a possi- political parties agree to do the ble united Opposition front. same. CHANGE FAVORED Some media reports have gone COP has itself taken to The Express newspaper, as far as to suggest that finan- the airwaves on the issue of which said it had obtained a ciers of the party are behind campaign financing and the copy of the poll, said that with the moves to get Panday to party’s campaign manager an estimated five percent mar- step down. Gerald Yetming, the former gin of error, the poll has revealed that 68.7 percent NEW SYSTEM favored a change in govern- The elections will be the ment. first since voters would be The UNC, which has given an opportunity to elect entered into an alliance with a 41 instead of 36 parliamentari- number of small political par- ans, and all three main politi- ties, has been trying to reach cal parties have said they are an accommodation with the confident of winning sufficient COP, but their efforts have seats to govern for the next been rebuffed. COP Chairman five years. Roy Augustus said the party, a In the last general elections, breakaway faction of the UNC the PNM won 20 seats with the that is promising the electorate UNC winning the remaining 16. “new politics”, would not be But the Opposition has been distracted by the “antics” of split, with Dookeran’s faction the UNC. lending support to the Manning Former Attorney General administration in passing critical Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj, pieces of legislation to deal with whose resignation and accusa- issues such as crime that is likely tion of corruption led to the to be a major platform agenda downfall of the UNC govern- in the campaign. ment in 2001, has also appealed Manning will lead a new for the two main Opposition slate into the elections, having groupings to unite in an effort discarded or lost to resigna- tion, illness or court charges,

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www.caribbeantoday.com FEATURE Guyana pleased with settlement of maritime dispute with Suriname TERRENCE ESSEBOOM emerged last claims, noting that “Guyana agree with me month when did not pursue monetary com- that the GEORGETOWN, Guyana, - Suriname pensation as a remedy for Guyana- In 1957 Sir Shridath Ramphal, President Suriname’s offence against the Suriname then a youthful employee in Ronald CGX rig, contenting itself with Cooperation the Legal Affairs Ministry Venetiaan a request for the condemna- Council here, drafted the license per- declared victo- tion that the tribunal has now should be pro- mitting California Oil to drill ry for his issued.” vided with the for petroleum in the country Venetiaan Venetiaan also claimed necessary Corentyne river which sepa- asserting that that Guyana’s President mandate and rates Guyana from neighbor- under the award, Guyana Bharrat Jagdeo, in a corre- political sup- ing Suriname. gained 51 percent and the spondence, proposed joint port it In 2007 - a half-a-century Dutch-speaking nation 49 per development of the offshore requires to Area disputed by Guyana and Suriname. later – Sir Shridath boasts cent of the controversial oil hydrocarbon resources accelerate that Guyana finally “won and gas-rich maritime area. between the cooperation between our Guyana and Suriname, and to gold” following the ruling of In reality the tribunal gave two countries. countries.” draw the boundary between the Hamburg-based Court Guyana “approximately two- “There is the maritime areas of Guyana of Arbitration which gave the thirds of this area…and one- nothing in FINAL WORD and Suriname in a manner that country a 85 percent stake of third to Surname,” said Paul Jagdeo’s letter The initial confusion of would be binding on both the disputed area, finally set- Reichler, one of experts who to Venetiaan interpretation of the ruling has countries for all time and tling the long-standing mar- pleaded Guyana’s three-year extending the not troubled Guyana’s legal acknowledged by the interna- itime dispute between the two case before the five-man tribu- hand of friend- team, and according to Reichler, tional community. states. nal. ship that even Guyana has no intention of In addition, the country Ramphal But the two Caribbean “The disparity is even mentions, let approaching the tribunal for any wanted “to confirm that the community (CARICOM) greater in Guyana’s favor alone propos- clarification on the matter. line of the boundary would be countries “will forever be when we consider the most es, joint development of off- “The tribunal will not be influenced, above all, by the neighbors,” Sir Shridath said important part of the area in shore resources,” Reichler said approached by Guyana for any principle of equidistance for at a press conference in dispute…where significant when questioned by the local clarification but I cannot speak which Guyana had long con- Georgetown last month as he deposits (of oil and gas) are press. for Suriname. The ruling is tended and for which Guyana’s encouraged continued cooper- believed to exist. In that part The president said in his final, but it must be made clear national law provides, and to ation between both. of the area of dispute, Guyana letter: “I wish to reiterate to that questions to clarify certain secure Guyana’s sovereignty to Sir Shridath, a former received 85 per cent and you my commitment, and that things can be asked but no the resources of the sea-bed on commonwealth secretary gen- Suriname only 15 percent, a of my country men and arguments can be made. It its continental shelf on the basis eral, said the historic maritime ratio of five to one in Guyana’s women, to cooperating with means that it cannot be of an internationally recognized ruling “was a good day for favor,” Reichler added. you and the people of appealed,” Reichler said. maritime CARICOM and the rule of Suriname had also claimed Suriname towards hastening When Guyana undertook boundary.” international law,” demonstrat- victory on the basis that mone- the development of our two arbitral proceedings against The ing that “the only lasting path tary compensation was not countries through cooperation Suriname, the Guyanese gov- Guyana gov- to the resolution of conflict is given to Guyana for the June for our mutual benefit.” ernment had six goals, said ernment also lawful process and peaceful 2000 expulsion of the CGX oil Continuing it said: “We do Jagdeo. These include: estab- wanted all means.” rig by Surinamese military have the mechanism in place lishing that the rule of interna- licensees to gunboats from the disputed to realize our goal of learning tional law, not the rule of “return to the CONFUSION area. and benefiting from the experi- force, holds sway in CARI- offshore area Jagdeo A great deal of confusion Reichler challenged these ence of each other. I am, there- COM waters and more specifi- where they fore, confident that you will cally in the maritime areas of were exploring for oil in June 2000, when they were forced at gun- point by a Surinamese naval vessel to abandon their activities and evacu- ate the area”. The final objective was “to achieve all this in a manner which allows Guyana and Suriname to cooperate as good neigh- bors and CARICOM partners in the develop- ment of their countries,” the president said when he addressed the nation on Sept. 20 to announce the tribunal’s award.

FAVOR The Court of Arbitration ruled in Guyana’s favour on all six counts. “When I say that on all these central issues Guyana’s interests and objectives are met, I do not mean to be triumphal- ist. That, in any event, would not be a proper posture for our country to adopt. In fact, the award is in the interest of both our countries and the wider Caribbean,” Jagdeo

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October 2007 CARIBBEAN TODAY 27

FEATURE www.caribbeantoday.com Caribbean launches assault on non-communicable diseases

PETER RICHARDS was to come up with a blue programs, partnerships and gram is now required if we choices before us,” Manning print for an integrated pre- policies supported by govern- are to make the significant said. PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – vention strategy targeting the ments, private sectors, non- advances required,” he said, “We did it on the basis of Edwin Carrington, the secre- three main risk factors: government organizations and noting that the Caribbean what had to be done in the tary general of the Caribbean unhealthy diet, physical inac- our other social, regional and spends half of its health interest of the national com- community (CARICOM), tivity and tobacco use. international partners”. expenditure on treating munity. What is more we had a simple message for In its report submitted to CNDCs. recognise clearly that in treat- regional leaders who gathered Caribbean governments near- “These costs are project- ing with the problem, addi- in Trinidad last month for a ly two years ago, the CCHD, ed to spiral at a time when we tional measures and strategies special summit: chaired by Sir George face competing claims for our must be implemented.” “Let us all seize this Alleyne, the chancellor of the limited resources. Failure to opportunity to leave a legacy University of the West Indies act can imperil our very lives, PLANS of a healthier region by mak- (UWI), noted for example the not to mention the future of The Caribbean countries ing this historic summit mem- high cost to regional govern- the community as we know have agreed to establish by orable for setting in motion ments for treating two non- it,” Arthur said. mid-2008, comprehensive the structure by which we not communicable diseases, plans for the screening and only stem the tide but truly hypertension and diabetes. It TAX ATTACK management of chronic dis- unite to stop the epidemic of said that the cost of hyperten- As part of the new initia- eases and risk factors “so that non-communicable diseases in sion and diabetes in Jamaica tives to deal with CNDCs, the by 2012, 80 percent of people the region.” for one year was approxi- governments have agreed to with CNDCs would receive mately $58 million “and this introduce higher taxes on quality care and have access Now, six years after Arthur agreeing that “the health of did not include any estimate to preventative education the region is the wealth of the of the economic value of the based on regional guidelines”. region”, Caribbean govern- STRATEGIES lives lost. In addition, physical edu- ments have launched their In the declaration, the “Multiplied throughout cation will be re-introduced in assault on chronic non-com- regional leaders have accept- the Caribbean, this cost schools and where necessary municable diseases (CNDC) ed the main recommendations implies a tremendous drain provide incentives to ensure that they all agree cost them of the CCHD which include on the economies,” the report that “our education sectors millions of dollars annually to strategies to prevent and con- said, suggesting also that “the promote programs aimed at treat and have affected the trol heart disease, stroke, dia- Caribbean must seriously providing healthy school socio-economic development betes, hypertension, obesity address the rising epidemic of meals and promoting healthy of their countries. and cancer in the region by obesity, which is the common eating”. At the end of their special addressing their “casual risk factor associated with an The regional countries summit on health, the regional factors of unhealthy diet, increased risk of chronic non- have also agreed to work leaders issued a “Declaration physical inactivity, tobacco communicable diseases.” closely with a number of of Port of Spain” supporting use and alcohol abuse and Caribbean institutions REMOVING MYTHS the concerns raised in a 123- strengthening our health serv- Carrington including the Jamaica-based page report by the Caribbean ices”. St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Caribbean Food and Commission on Health and The Caribbean leaders Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas, Nutrition Institute (CFNI) Development (CCHD) that said they are convinced that who has lead responsibility tobacco and alcohol as well as that would be used as a focal warned “a healthy population the burdens of CNDCs “can for health in CARICOM, said “support the immediate point for providing guidance is an essential prerequisite for be reduced by comprehensive that it was also important for enactment of legislation to and public education as part the economic growth and sta- and integrated preventative the region’s population to limit or eliminate smoking in bility of the Caribbean”. and control strategies at the move away from various public places, ban the sale, Carrington had said that individual, family, community, myths that prevent efforts at advertising and promotion of the challenge of the summit national and regional levels developing strategies to tobacco products to children, and through collaborative meaningfully deal with insist on effective warning CNCDs. labels and introduce such fis- He told the summit here cal measures that will reduce Guyana pleased with settlement of that many Caribbean people accessibility of tobacco”. were of the opinion that In addition, they said the maritime dispute with Suriname chronic diseases were a prob- public revenue derived from (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26) by all as a positive instance lem of rich countries, while tobacco, alcohol or other such where the resolution of dis- the facts show “non-commu- products would be employed said in his address last month. putes can be settled in a dis- nicable disease account for towards preventing CNCDs, Sir Shridath, who has passionate and peaceful man- more than half the burden on promoting health and sup- encyclopaedic knowledge of ner. The entire region, CARI- disease and 80 percent of the porting the work of national the historic controversy, COM and the world at large deaths in the poorer countries commissions on CNDCs that Douglas reminded the press that must acknowledge and cele- which carry a double burden would plan and coordinate Guyana’s claims to the once- brate this occasion as a tri- of disease. the comprehensive prevention of the strategy to “enhance disputed maritime area were umph for the rule of interna- “If the known risk factors and control strategies. food security and our strong not trumped-up. tional law,” the AFC said. are controlled, at least 80 per- Trinidad and Tobago’s support for the elimination of “In 1977 our Maritime The ageing Sir Shridath cent of heart disease, stroke Prime Minister Patrick trans fats from the diets of Boundaries Act asserted the counseled that last month’s and diabetes and 40 percent Manning told the summit that our citizens. equidistance principle that the maritime award has opened up of cancers are preventable, his oil-rich island had long “Our support for the tribunal upheld, and of course, “a new era in Guyana’s devel- and in addition there are cost adopted strong fiscal meas- efforts of the Caribbean it is the same principle that opment.” This, however, will effective interventions avail- ures to deal with alcohol and Regional Negotiating Suriname is adopting in its bring new challenges said the able for control,” he said. tobacco related diseases par- Machinery to pursue fair eastern boundary with French former chief negotiator for The summit was told that ticularly after the CCHD trade policies in all interna- Guiana,” Sir Shridath recalled. CARICOM. the prevalence of CNDC in report had indicated that the tional trade negotiations The minority parliamentary “Oil has been a mixed the Caribbean “is the worst in country needed nearly half a thereby promoting greater Alliance For Change (AFC) in blessing where its gains are not the Americas” and, according billion dollars annually to use of indigenous agricultural a statement over the weekend sensitively managed. But there to CARICOM Chairman treat diabetes and high blood products and foods by our said the “historic and legally are models of best practices Owen Arthur, who is also the pressure. populations and reducing the binding decision now allows for from which Guyana can bene- Barbados prime minister, “it “When therefore the gov- negative effects of globalisa- the Governments of Guyana fit as we stand poised on the is clear we are failing to prop- ernment of Trinidad and tion on our food supply”, are and Suriname to forge econom- cusp of that new time. It is not erly control the factors which Tobago took the opportunity also strategies outlined by the ic and social development activ- too early to prepare for the engender these diseases. to set alcohol and tobacco regional leaders. ities, including natural resource challenges it will bring,” Sir “It is also clear that further away from the reach exploitation of the sea bed for Shridath said. despite valiant efforts at the of the population, there were - CMC the mutual benefit of their domestic level, a coordinated many who did not even nor respective countries and people. - CMC regional partnership and pro- even now fully understand the ® “This award must be seen ®

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