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• Local News

November 4, 2005

Police said 19-year-old Chad Depusior of Boyds Village was arrested and charged with the wounding of Dr. Desmond Martin of Garveys Estate, with a machete

Acting Deputy Commissioner Joseph Richardson said Depusior was arrested Oct. 28.

The Acting Deputy Commissioner said it was reported that about 9:10 a.m. Oct.19, Dr. Martin, while at his residence, was aroused by a strange noise coming from one of his tenants’ home.

“Dr Martin left his home to investigate the noise and was attacked by the alleged machete-wielding assailant, who, apparently, was trying to break into the tenant’s home. He was chopped on his head and was taken to the Joseph N France General Hospital, where he was treated for the injury,” Richardson said.

Richardson noted that the police had been making significant progress into a number of reported break-ins on the island.

“We are appealing to the general public to come forward with any information they may have to assist the police with their investigations into crimes committed in the Federation.

“They may, at times, observe suspicious movements by some criminal-minded individuals in their neighbourhood, which may not be of any significance to them, but it would be of great value to the police. Therefore, we are once again appealing to them to come forward with any information that may lead to the apprehension of these criminals, “Richardson said.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Stanford Conway

The Observer

A Dominican Republic national and employee of Construction Technologies (CONTEC) died last Monday following an industrial accident at that organisation’s quarry in Canada Estate.

According to police reports, 39-year-old Carlos Vanterpool died on the spot around 3 p.m. last Monday after being struck on the head by the rear end of a boom, which snapped from a crane while unloading a container.

Police said that they were awaiting results of an autopsy but investigations into his death were ongoing.

Managing Director of CONTEC Lincoln Pemberton said that Vanterpool, who resided at Durant Avenue, Basseterre, had been working with the company for the past nine months.

When contacted, Pemberton told The Observer that he was not in a position to provide accurate information on the circ*mstances surrounding the tragic accident but noted, apart from the police, internal investigations were in process.

He however confirmed that Vanderpool’s death did occur during the moving of a container at the company’s site in Canada Estate.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By P.T. Lawrence

The main Authority for Planning in any country rests in statutory laws that have been enacted in their sovereign Parliaments. Now a days, there are slight variations or twists to the concept of planning laws and these have been orchestrated by the developed nations of the world. They believed that there are different levels of civilisations that are based on their achieved levels of development, and as a consequence, countries are divided into several categories namely: (a) the developed, (b) the developing, (c) the undeveloped, (d) the First World, (e) no mention of the Second World) and (f) the Third World.

Most of the countries of the world have formal sovereign parliaments in which bills are debated and if the bills received safe passages through parliament then they become enforceable laws of the respective countries. This process operates successfully in European, some Asian, and North and South American countries.In some countries (eg.Nevis) they do not have the full authority to enact planning laws and therefore the semblance of planning laws that exist have been imposed upon them.

Because of the various categories of countries, one therefore expects a very wide variation in planning laws which range from “the formal to the informal”. In some cases in the South Pacific the laws are unwritten and are enforced by custom. Following the introduction of the one-sided term “Globalisation” which has built into its concepts ‘the movement of industrial, commercial, and leisure activities’, one tends to find that the planning laws in some of these developing, undeveloped or third world countries are totally inadequate to cope with the demands that are created by the concept of Globalisation.

Nevis cannot adequately cope with the problems and these include: public access to beaches, the threatened loss of rights of way that have been granted by prescription,and the loss of rich agricultural and potential recreational lands.

Having said all this, one can see that there is a precariously urgent need for an all embracing planning law initially to protect the rights of the Nevisian population and more specifically the need for planning permission.

It is a good idea to have a brief look at some of the planning laws in some countries; there are so many that I will quote extracts from the 1971 Planning Act in England. Section 23(1) of the act provides that subjects to the provisions of that section, “planning permission “is required for the carrying out of any development of land”.It therefore follows that planning permission may be granted following the determination of an express application for permission made to the local planning authority for the area in which the land is situated.

We are not in England; we are in Nevis and the local planning authority is the Nevis Planning Authority, Main Street, Charlestown. So as far as we are concerned, any individual, groups of individuals, company or conglomerates who want to embark upon any form of development, must, (if we have that provision in our laws) apply to the local planning authority for permission to proceed with their development.

It is important to note that the key words that are used in S23 (1) of the above 1971 Act are “development of land). Development can mean anything and a host of other things but to make the act applicable S22 (1) defines its meaning. Development is central to the power of local authority— the planning authority in Nevis. In its definition, the act states that development is ‘the carrying out of building, engineering, mining, or other operations in, on, over or under or under land ‘ or the making of any material change in the use of any building or other land. It is clear that the act has specifically dealt with two forms of development: i.e operations and material change in the use of land or building. This is a very extensive provision and for the act to be implemented successfully, governments must ensure that the planners received systematic and professional training that such a demanding position calls for.

Some key terms to look for are:building operations, buildings, demolition, engineering operations, mining operations, and other operations. If any operations fall into these categories, then a determination from the planning officer is required. Today, a lot of individuals and developers do things on their lands which they honestly believe are quite legitimate but, on the contrary are unlawful. In such cases such actions attract the attention of the planning officers.

S22(1) is an all embracing section which catches any conceivable misdeeds by a developer. If the Nevis Planning Laws contain any such provisions then the operations that were carried out by Villa Paradiseo in Paradise Estate, and by Four Seasons on Jessups beach are to all intents and purposes ‘developments’. These operations should attract applications for determination by the Nevis Planning Authority whose roles must be autonomous and clearly defined by an Act Of Parliament.

We now have a series of partial guidelines to look at to determine whether or not any form of development requires planning permission or not. This is a yard stick that can be used to make the determination ourselves and by jove we should.

Any function of government calls for a rigid system of administration and planning is no exception. In a subsequent article I will try to enlighten our readers on the topic of “the Central Control and administration of Planning.

• Entertainment

November 4, 2005

MTV’s Tempo Rocks Nevis

By Jaedee Caines

The Observer

The biggest event to have taken place in Nevis came off last Sunday on the grounds of the Mount Nevis Hotel. The long awaited launch of MTV’s TEMPO brought hundreds of people together.

Hotels, guest houses and car rental establishments were completely booked for the event.

High praise was given to the organisers of the TEMPO launch as the concert is being rated as one of the best to hit the federation in a long time.

The federation’s local talent was at its best as the Kasanova band of Nevis, reggae artist Masud Sadiki and gospel singer; Pepper Ranks of St. Kitts had persons waving their rags, t-shirts and balloons to their sweet sounds. The regional and international acts however, were the highlights of Sunday’s event.

Morgan Heritage captivated the audience right from the start with its mega-hits while Luciano left the crowd chanting “we want more” after his final song, ‘We’re All In This Thing Together.”

The performance by the renowned Beres Hammond should’ve been longer some complained as they could never get enough of his songs. International artist; Angie Stone provided a mixture of soul, R&B and rap to the large crowd on hand.

It was the performance by musical genius; Wyclef Jean that left the crowd speechless.

His on stage presentation was mesmerizing.

Sunday’s show, together with previous shows in different islands will be compiled and shown on TEMPO. The channel is schedule to air on Nov. 21

• Sports

November 4, 2005

By Stanford Conway

The Observer

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Kitts and Nevis Local Organising Committee (LOC) Horatio Versailles said the ultra-modern Warner Park Cricket Complex was well advanced in many areas of construction and would be completed before its scheduled date.

Versailles made this pronouncement during a conducted tour of the construction site by participants of the recently concluded Stakeholders Roadshow hosted at the Marriott Beach Resort by the ICC Cricket World Cup West Indies 2007 Incorporated office in Jamaica, in collaboration with the LOC.

“In the pavilion, the roof is now being put on and the internal partitioning has been completed. Work on the media centre is also moving along smoothly with 90 percent of the walls done and 80 percent of internal partitioning completed,” Versailles said.

He also noted that the ticketing office and the scoreboard were also under construction and the ground was already levelled.

Versailles added that the Federation’s cricketing community was very excited about the new ground and looked forward to it being among the most breath-taking cricketing arenas in the world.

He noted that Warner Park’s legacy capacity was 8,200 seated and unseated, while the Cricket World Cup overlay would boost that number beyond 10,000 with temporary seating.

“Our ground offers one of the most picturesque views in the Caribbean and in the world. It is being mentioned with grounds like Newlands in cape Town, South Africa, which boasts the famous Table Mountain in the background.

“Here we have great views at either ends. To the south, we have the mountain ranges while to the north fans can see our sister island Nevis,” added Versailles.

Project Manager Steve Brinkhurst of Carillion Construction, West Indies Limited, disclosed that works in preparation of the pitch and field were substantially completed and would be ready for the planting of grass within the next few weeks.

Like Versailles, Brinkhurst is confident that construction of the cricket venue will be completed on time.

“Our completion date is March 31, 2006 and we are on schedule to meet that. However, after that, enormous additional work will have to be done to make it World Cup-ready but that’s not part of our mandate.

“We are the construction managers hired by Terra Forma Development Limited. They are the main developers, who have the contract with the St. Kitts and Nevis Government to build the stadium,” Brinkhurst said.

The ultra-modern Warner Park Stadium will be home to world champions Australia, South Africa, Scotland and Holland in the Group Stage First Round matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007.

• Sports

November 4, 2005

The Observer

Village and Spurs maintain the 100% winning record over two games while Newtown also remained undefeated but produced the first draw for the season.

Village was in control of the game creating the better chances but their sharpness in front of goal was off. Fortunately they got the goal at the right time to take away a full three points from a Conaree team that was fighting valiantly

Newtown on the other hand was not as lucky. They had St. Peters under the sword for most of the game. They went ahead through a well-taken Ian “Rompy” Lake goal but will be regretting the fact that they had several other opportunities that all went high and wide.

St. Peters stayed in the game until they were awarded a penalty late in the game which Kelvin “Muffin” Pemberton easily put away with his left foot. This was after Ronel Brookes wasted the first spot kick but was saved with referee Bergan penalized the Newtown defense for encroaching.

Newtown had one final effort to grab a winner. With the St. Peters keeper beaten the ball was bouncing precariously close to the goal line with two Newtown strikers bearing down on the ball. The St. Peters defense however was the hero of the day with a late clearance that caused an eruption from the fans.

• Religion

November 4, 2005

Jesus said to His disciples, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11:24. Do we take Him at His word? The assurance is broad and unlimited, and He is faithful who has promised. When we do not receive the very things we asked for, at the time we ask, we are still to believe that the Lord hears and that He will answer our prayers.

We are so erring and short-sighted that we sometimes ask for things that would not be a blessing to us, and our heavenly Father in love answers our prayers by giving us that which will be for our highest good–that which we ourselves would desire if with vision divinely enlightened we could see all things as they really are. When our prayers seem not to be answered, we are to cling to the promise; for the time of answering will surely come, and we shall receive the blessing we need most.

But to claim that prayer will always be answered in the very way and for the particular thing that we desire, is presumption. God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from them that walk uprightly. Then do not fear to trust Him, even though you do not see the immediate answer to your prayers. Rely upon His sure promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you.”

If we take counsel with our doubts and fears, or try to solve everything that we cannot see clearly, before we have faith, perplexities will only increas and deepen. But if we come to God, feeling helpless and dependent, as we really are, and in humble, trusting faith make known our wants to Him whose knowledge is infinite, who sees everything in creation, and who governs everything by His will and word, He can and will attend to our cry, and will let light shine into our hearts.

Through sincere prayer we are brought into connection with the mind of the Infinite. We may have no remarkable evidence at the time that the face of our Redeemer is bending over us in compassion and love, but this is even so. We may not feel His visible touch, but His hand is upon us in love and pitying tenderness.

When we come to ask mercy and blessing from God we should have a spirit of love and forgiveness in our own hearts. How can we pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,” and yet indulge an unforgiving spirit? Matthew 6:12. If we expect our own prayers to be heard we must forgive others in the same manner and to the same extent as we hope to be forgiven.

Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.” 1 Peter 4:7.

Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6. “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.” Jude 20, 21.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Jaedee Caines

The Observer

The Nevis Historical and Conservation Society (N.H.C.S) held a press conference at the Museum of Nevis History last Monday. The conference highlighted some of the past accomplishments of the organization as well as the organization’s future plans.

David Robinson; Longest Serving Executive Director, Sheila Evelyn; President, John Guilbert; present Executive Director and Arthur Evelyn; Founding Member of the NHCS made up Monday’s panel and addressed the many questions and queries.

Members of the press as well as chairperson of the 25th Anniversary, Lornette Hanley attended the conference.

The society was established in 1980 and is geared towards conserving the natural, cultural and historic ambiance of Nevis. This is done through their collection of artifacts and archival materials. The society has in excess of 500 members. A 15 member board however, makes the budgetary decisions and sets the organization’s guidelines.

The NHCS mentioned its many accomplishments and achievements, particularly the establishment of Nevis’ two museums; The Museum of Nevis History and The Horatio Nelson Museum. The society co-operates with many governmental organizations and units to both protect and enrich Nevisian life.

The activities for the 25th Anniversary celebration which takes place next month include a Church Service at the St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Treasure Hunt entitled ‘Heritage Treasure Trail’, a Cultural Ceremony featuring Alan Lomax’s Collection of Caribbean Music Recordings of 1962, specific to the federation, Museum Exhibitions and a Reception; honouring the board’s long standing members.

The NHCS continues its quest towards preserving the heritage of Nevis and advise that it plans on developing into a National Trust.

President Evelyn encouraged the public to participate in the activities to mark the anniversary celebration.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

Residents of St. Kitts and Nevis will begin paying more for fuel and electricity from November 1st, but Government has put in place a mechanism to assist the more vulnerable groups to cope with the rise in energy costs.

Minister of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and Posts, Dr. the Hon. Earl Asim Martin made the expected announcement in a nationwide radio and television broadcast on Monday night.

He said that despite rising oil prices on the world market over the years, the increases would be the first rise in electricity rates since 2000 and in fuel prices since February this year.

Dr. Martin said fuel at the pump will increase from EC$8.30 to $10.50 and electricity will rise from $0.37 cents per kilowatt hour to $0.51 cents per kilowatt hour.

He said Government has put in place a mechanism to assist the more vulnerable groups of society such as the very poorest senior citizens and families who are likely to have extreme difficulty in coping with the adjustment in electricity rates.

The Public Utilities Minister said that escalating oil prices now pose the greatest threat to the achievement of fiscal targets for 2005 and in light of the increase in international oil prices, governments in the region have decided to discontinue subsidising fuel cost and to pass on the increase to the consumers.

Dr. Martin pointed out that on October 6th 2005, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda increased the pump price to $11.89 per gallon. On October 29, 2005, the Government of Dominica set the pump price at $10.32 per gallon and on April 20, 2005, the Dutch St. Maarten Government set the pump price at $11.03 per gallon.

“The Cayman Islands is $10.80 per gallon, Barbados $12.89 per gallon and the Bahamas $10.85 per gallon. Montserrat, St. Lucia and Anguilla also had similar increases. St. Kitts, by contrast up until this very moment, has set $8.30 per gallon as the pump price,” Dr. Martin told the nation.

He said although the price of fuel at the pump should really be increased by $6.09 to take it to $14.39, Government took into account the likely inflationary effect of such increase and has agreed to an interim upward adjustment of $2.20 per gallon thus setting the price of gasoline at the pump at $10.50.

“This means that Government will still be paying suppliers $1.22 for each gallon of gasoline consumed. This will achieve the objective of reducing the impact on transportation costs and other costs likely to be affected and provide a shield of protection to all consumers,” said Dr. Martin.

He said Government has also had to give deep thought to the cost of the generation of electricity as the cost of diesel has increased dramatically over the past few years. The base price of diesel has surged by 75% from $3.38 per gallon in 2000, to $5.91 per gallon in 2005. “Over this same period, the charges for electricity consumption have been held constant, and hence have been subsidised by the government,” said Dr. Martin.

He pointed out that the gross revenues from the electricity department amounted to $31 million while the amount spent on fuel amounted to $40.1 million.

“This situation is untenable and indicates that the Electricity Department is unable to cover the cost of fuel alone, not to mention salaries and other administrative and operational expenses to keep the department functioning. In addition, capital costs for the upgrading, and replacement of generators at the power station simply cannot be recovered,” said Dr. Martin.

He said that the demand for electricity supply is increasing as the lives of residents become more modernised, as the government pursues its housing development programme, and as the tourism and construction sectors continue to expand at rapid rates.

Dr. Martin said that electricity charges in St. Kitts have remained at $0.37 per unit since 2000, not withstanding all of this increase in costs of fuel and of operations. He said despite the increase in St. Kitts, other OECS countries are paying more for electricity. In Anguilla, it is $0.64; Antigua – $0.85; Grenada – $0.73; St.Vincent – $0.78; Montserrat – $1.02; Dominica – $0.66 and Nevis – $0.51.

“These costs reflect the reality of the increasing cost of diesel fuel used in the generation of electricity and at the same time the reality of the budgetary constraints of the small developing vulnerable states of the OECS. St. Kitts is no different and we must act responsibly as a government. Our electricity rates are not only the lowest in the entire region but are simply far below the generation cost,” said Dr. Martin.

He said that the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis although it has no control over the price of fuel on the world market and does not produce even a drop of oil, it has done its best to keep the price down, “but there comes a time when adjustments are necessary.”

• Tourism

November 4, 2005

By Trisha La Place

The Observer

Tourism week kicks off to a good start, as the upcoming activities for Ocean Fest looks quite promising.

Ocean Fest is one of the activities for Tourism Week organised by the Ministry of Tourism.

This year Gem Family Rave returns to add more excitement to Ocean Fest.

Since the launch of Gem Family Rave six years ago Audley Goodwin one of the executives said they often use this as a marketing scheme to help increase their listening audience.

The last rave was held in St. Kitts in 2002.

The beach event will show case clash of the bands featuring EL A Kru from Antigua and house bands from St. Kitts.

Fun games such as volleyball, sack races, tug-a-war, lime-and-spoon, beer drinking competition and a fashion show will also be included.

A pre-rave party would be held at Krystals night club on Saturday with house DJ Lennox from Trinidad along with Gem Family Rave announcers and a surprise guest artist.

Many regional visitors from the neighbouring islands will participate in the rave namely from Nevis, Antigua and Montserrat.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Jaedee Caines

The Observer

Nevis Island Assembly met last Wednesday at about 10 a.m. and passed the Nevis Physical Planning and Development Ordinance 2005.

The bills had received their second and third readings.

Minister Michael Perkins spoke at length about the topic. Perkins said the time has come to update the existing legislation that has been in existence since 1966.

“This is one of the most important pieces of legislation,” Perkins said. The highlight of his presentation however was the explanation of the ordinance section that deals with the administrative procedure.

Premier Vance Amory spoke at great length of matters pertaining to the Nevis Electricity Company Limited (NEVLEC).

“NEVLEC is feeling the effect of the high price in gas,” said Amory, “NEVLEC has been faced with 6.2 million dollars of additional fuel charges already for the year.”

He said his administration has approved a request by the company entitled a Fuel Ser Charge. He advised that the base price would not be changed but this fuel ser charge will adjust itself upward or downward as the case may be. Amory said that although this is of grave concern, this fuel ser charge will not be implemented for residential customers until the end of January next year.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Jaedee Caines

The Observer

Resident of Barnes Ghaut and grade one teacher at the Charlestown Primary School, Vaughn Sturge says he’s recuperating well after being hospitalised for one week at the Alexandra Hospital.

He was involved in a traffic accident with bus driver, Perry Liburd on Oct. 24 at 6:55 p.m. The accident took place in the vicinity of One Stop Gas Station in Cotton Ground.

Sturge told The Observer he was travelling in the bus known as ‘Hammi’ on his way to Oualie when the bus made a stop on the main road in front the gas station.

“I came out and walked to the back of the bus on the pedestrian crossing. I looked up and down the road several times and did not see any vehicular lights approaching me. I then proceeded across the road and it was it was then I was hit by the bus and felt my body cease,” Sturge said.

When asked why he left the bus before reaching his intended destination Sturge said he was making a little stop to buy a phone card.

‘Imagine Dat’ was the bus being driven by Liburd at the time of the accident.

The ambulance arrived on the scene and took Sturge to the hospital where he remained until last Monday.

Sturge suffered a few bruises, pain in shoulder and hip and a broken leg. He denies rumours of him being in critical condition and said he would be away from work for six to eight weeks.

Police say the matter is currently under investigation. Sources at the traffic department say the end of October brought the number of traffic accidents to 205 so far for this year.

• Law

November 4, 2005

By Trisha La Place

The Observer

Legal Aid and Advice Centre is now in full operation, said acting director of the centre, attorney Donna Harris. She said the centre has minimal fees rates according to client’s income level.

Harris stated persons whose income is $8,000 per year and less will only pay an application fee while those ranging between $10,000-$12,000 will pay an application fee and half the legal fee which is much cheaper that the private practice fee.

Clients amassing a salary of over $12,000 per year would pay the application fee and the full legal aid fee.

She also added that once an individual seeks assistance at the Centre his or her financial means would be assessed to see whether or not they can or cant afford the minimal fees.

However if it is found that the individual cannot afford to pay these set fees then the service is provided pro bono or free of cost.

The centre target mostly women, the elderly and juveniles who are often declared as having the modest financial means hence the assistance of men who fall within that income bracket.

Director Harris also gave a brief example of some males who might be paying maintenance for his child yet not being allowed access. She stated that such a individual can summons the guardian for visitation rights unless he is found not fit for the child to be in his company such as bad language, being left alone etc.

A full interview with Ms. Harris will be aired on a future SKNIS update.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Trisha La Place

The Observer

With house breaking on the rise, Omari Browne, owner of the newly established lock smith company, Lock Head, said residential owners need to better secure their homes.

“ Smithy’s Got The Key,” is his slogan as he tries to separate himself from other competitors.

Browne started Lock Hed on Sept. 20.

“ My dad and I came up with Liamuiga Security which I am now the managing director, I then decided to branch off not from the business entirely but rather take a step forward and creat my very own lock smith security business,” Browne said.

Browne said he studied in Kentucky, USA.

He studied electronic access control-key pads and card readers, professional lock-smithing, comprehensive security specialty and managing terrorism.

Lock Hed emphasises on higher security locks, hardware specification and opening locks whether residential or on vehicles.

“My aim is to give the people what they want not what I have to offer, sometimes to be successful in a business you have to go the extra mile and render your services without thinking about financial aid all the time,” Browne said. “Yes it’s a service but I’m more aiming on helping people secure their homes and making the federation a much more safe environment for people to live freely.”

Browne is a member of alumni member of security institutes such as (ASIS) American Society for Industrial Security International and (ALOA) Association of locksmiths of America.

• Crime

November 4, 2005

By Stanford Conway

The Observer

Members of a police patrol apprehended two boys, one 16 and the other 14, with a quantity of stolen articles in Mattingley Heights last week Thursday.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Joseph Richardson said that while patrolling in the Mattingley Heights area around mid-day last week Thursday, police arrested two juveniles who were in possession of a quantity of articles suspected to be stolen from homes within Basseterre.

Richardson said the stolen articles included jewellery; perfume; a cellular phone; a quantity of local and foreign currency including US and Guyana; and pieces of clothing.

“Investigations linked the items to three break-ins in the Mattingley Heights and Amory Drive areas and one of the perpetrators is a former resident of the Save Our Sons Boys Home (SOSBH) in Sandy Point,” Richardson said.

He noted that the elder of the two boys was discharged from the home on Saturday, October 22.

Both of them were charged but the 14-year-old was bailed last Wednesday with two sureties, while the other one is still in police custody. They are scheduled to appear in court next Monday.

Speaking with the leader of the Unique Touch Christian Centre and founder of the SOSBH, Pastor Clive Saunders, The Observer learned that the elder of the two boys charged was sent away from the home to Her Majesty’s Prison because of his indisciplined behaviour.

Pastor Saunders said he was the eldest among the members and had a great influence on the others, which did not augur well for code and conduct and violated standing orders of the institution.

“Unlike the three younger members who are at school, through the efforts of our organisation, he was employed at Harowe Servo Controls (St. Kitts) Limited in Sandy Point but left the job after one week, Saunders said.”

He added that on investigation for the reason of him leaving the job, the juvenile claimed he walked off the job because he was not comfortable working there.

“I subsequently took him back and learned from the manager that the young man never told or indicated to her that he was displeased over something or the other at the company. She however took him back in her employ but he again walked off on the same day,” Saunders said.

Pastor indicated that he had no other choice but to have the juvenile returned to Her Majesty’s Prison.

The Unique Touch Christian Centre, in collaboration with the St. Kitts Government, amidst some degree of controversy, launched the SOSBH earlier this year with the aim of rehabilitating and providing a home for juvenile delinquents who ran afoul of the law and were placed in Her Majesty’s Prison for safe-keeping.

Pastor Saunders noted that despite the fact that the project commenced with five juveniles and now there are only three, the organisation was slowly but surely achieving its objective.

He added that the current members were demonstrating a high sense of respect for those person who overlook them and they also showed the determination, in their attitude, to inculcate the behaviour of true reformers.

“We have a long way to go and a 1,000 miles begin with the first step but by the grace of God and the assistance of concerned citizens as well as the Government, we will perseverance and make this project a success,” Saunders said.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Stanford Conway

The Observer

ST. KITTS — “With the right direction of our future trade arrangements with MERCOSUR and other Latin American countries, I foresee the manufacturing sector making a larger contribution to the Federation’s Gross Domestic Product and employment as the players in the electronics sub-sector seek to penetrate the Latin American market in the medium to long terms.”

This is one of the sentiments posited by the Chairman of the St. Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s Manufacturers Division, Mr. Adam Lynch.

In an exclusive interview, Lynch said that with the current move away from sugar production to an economy, which is more service and, moreover, tourism oriented, linkages should be forged between the tourism and manufacturing sectors.

“There are numerous opportunities for the manufacturers of jams, jellies, peppers and essences, among other items, to market their products to hotels in ever-increasing quantities if the necessary product standards are achieved.

“To this end, we need the support of the local hotel industry to reach out to our manufacturers and assist them in anyway possible in forging such a partnership,” Lynch said.

He however criticised many of the local products showcased at the recently concluded Caribbean Agricultural Fair, noting some of them were either poorly labelled with insufficient information with regards to name and location of the manufacturers, ingredients, batch numbers, volume and other data that consumers would look for when faced with a choice.

“These products,” he added, “will face an uphill battle in local supermarkets when displayed side by side with similar imported goods on the shelves. Therefore, local manufacturers must strive for higher standards in order to be successful in this highly competitive field.”

Lynch noted some of the Division’s achievements for the current year, including the successful hosting of the Manufacturer’s Awareness Week after a one-year lapse and members participation in regional trade shows in which new markets were discovered in the Caribbean, Latin America and Asia.

Highlighting some main areas of concern, the Chairman noted Nevis’ absence of membership in the Manufacturer’s Division and hoped that all manufacturers in the Federation would be involved in future annual regional exhibitions and seek to extend their target markets.

“We need to take the business of manufacturing forward and we can only do this successfully with the full participation of all concerned. This is a situation in which I see us sharing ideas for the promotion of trade and the formulation of the necessary trade policies and arrangements,” Lynch posited.

He also highlighted some of the constraints faced by the manufacturing sector, noting it has lent itself to be heavily dependent on stable costs of production as manufacturers, in more cases than not, enjoyed fixed prices for their products over extended periods.

“As such, given the steep increases in the price of crude oil along with the impending increase in the cost of fuel and, moreover, electricity charges in the Federation, manufacturers of electronic items and other components are now facing severely depressed margins and decreasing returns to capital,” he added.

Lynch however sees the division playing an important role during Cricket World Cup 2007 despite licensing agreements, which would prohibit businesses from marketing their products at or near Warner Park.

He stated that there were lots of locally manufactured products that have great sales potential, some already well established in the Federation, and with new legislation (Equipment Leasing), the formation of an investment promotion agency, technical assistance and possibly soft financing, more manufacturers would also come to the fore.

“We need to gear up our manufacturers to reap some of the benefits from the Federation’s hosting of Cricket World Cup 2007. We have to seek to aggressively target new membership.

“Thereafter, technical assistance must be sought to enable our manufacturers in facing the challenges of the marketplace through upgrading their product packaging, labelling and presentation and, most important, letting the customer know the ingredients of the products that are being offered for sale…” Lynch emphasised.

• Crime

November 4, 2005

By Trisha La Place

The Observer

ST. KITTS — A high-court jury on Monday found a 23-year-old Molineaux woman guilty of setting fire to a four-bedroom dwelling house, where more than seven people — some of them children — lived.

Police had charged Andrea Greene with arson for setting fire on a dwelling home with intent to destroy private property.

A police source speculated that jealousy was the motive for the arson.

District Prosecutor Janine Harris alleged that on March 15, 2004 Greene, also known as Angie, set fire upon a wooden structure owned by Tamira Wallace of Shepherd Street, Newtown.

Harris said on that day at about 2 p.m., police responded to a fire report made by Wallace’s neighbours.

Greene was linked to the scene by testimony from several witnesses who testified that they saw a suspicious female around the area.

Wayne Liddie who is in a relationship with Tamira Wallace, and who police suspect Greene may have been madly in love with, said he knew Greene from hanging out at the bar on the ferry terminal. Liddie told the Court he knew Greene for more than five months before the arson incident. He said he would walk her to Bakers Corner after working at the bar late at night.

Liddie, who resided at Shepherd Street with girlfriend Wallace, said that he would walk with Greene to make sure she got home safely.

Prosecutor Harris asked Liddie what type of relationship did he and Greene have.

“Me and Angie were just friends,” Liddie said.

Alecia Ryan another resident of the home stated that she was home watching television when she heard Wallace’s dog barking.

“I then got up and looked out my window I saw a clear skin young lady coming out of Tamira’s gate, five minutes later I started smelling smoke coming from the back of Tamira’s yard,” Ryan said. “I then grabbed my hammer and ran around to Tamira’s side of the yard to try and knock the lock off the gate, but I just couldn’t get it off.

“ I ran to the front of the house and then went back inside, but I just gave up it was to much smoke. So I tried to save my stuff inside and get out as much as possible but the flames were too high, I ran outside in the street and met Dave Mason and I just fell in his arms and started crying.”

Ryan said Mason call some of the neighbourhood boys to help out the fire.

“They started throwing water on the house. But nothing worked the flames took over the entire house and all my stuff were destroyed,” Ryan said.

Ryan told the court that she estimated her loss at $10,000.

Sgt. James Sutton testified that he had conducted a search of the premises and found a plastic bottle in a pool of water with the smell of Kerosene.

Sutton said the accused was brought to the police station by her step-father.

“I then cautioned Ms. Greene about the situation that she was said to have set the house on fire she stated “not me” I then saw a bulge in her skirt pocket. I then asked the young lady what was in her pocket she stated “matches.”

“I asked her where she got the matches she replied I bought them to take home. I then called a female police officer to conduct a search on the accused and found $4.34.”

Sutton said on March 17, 2004 he charged Greene with arson.

As soon as the jury returned with the guilty verdict, Greene’s lawyer Chesley Hamilton asked for sentenced to be held off until Monday, to allow for a mental evaluation of his client.

The judge granted the request.

• Local News

November 4, 2005

By Jaedee Caines

The Observer

Linkon Maynard, Plant Manager of Carib Brewery (St. Kitts & Nevis Limited), said he is 100 percent certain that there were no expired drinks from the Brewery in circulation.

Maynard made this statement after reports from residents in Nevis that Vita Malt was being distributed and sold with labels stating, “Best before January to December 2002, 2003 and 2004.”

“The expiration dates of the drinks are normally printed in black ink on the shoulder of the bottles,” Maynard said.

He said the Brewery had received a large stock of out-dated expiry label and were trying to use them so they wouldn’t go to waste.

“The drinks are in no way expired and that’s why none of the months and years were highlighted,” said Maynard.

He said that the Brewery had already ordered some new labels and should be receiving them in one and a half months.

Maynard said the labels were indeed misleading but indicated that they would correct the situation as soon as possible.

• Letter

November 4, 2005

Dear Editor,

I have a concern I would like you to put into the paper. I think people in St. Kitts need a new movie theatre. The one we have now in my opinion is not good enough. A new movie theatre with maybe three to five big screens and with the latest technology to provide the best sound is what the people want. I’m saying this because I think with competition this would force people to fix up their place and give the people a good product.

When you have the monopoly, you really don’t care. You simply give people what you feel like giving them. Remember SKANTEL!!

I want to know who makes the decision for what movie get shown at the Movies. The movies that have been showing there are terrible. I might as well go and buy a boot-leg copy of the movie I am interested in seeing on the street, and deal with the inferior quality. We need another movie theatre so that people can have more options in deciding what they want to see.

I have heard rumors that some business people want to put up a movie theater but the Government is stopping them. I hope this is not true. It cannot be true. In a case like this I would think the Government would even offer incentives to get the business going. You ask anybody on the street and everyone will agree that a new movie theatre is needed. Maybe even in Nevis, but certainly one in St. Kitts.

A nice location would probably be in Sandy Point. We need to start looking at the country as viable area for night time entertainment for people who more than willing to spend money on having a good time. I’m talking about the type of entertainment places that people who go to Tigers, Crystals and BET Soundstage would enjoy. We need more of those places in the county.

But first build that new movie theatre, people have had enough and we want something better than what is offered now.

Marlene

• Health

November 4, 2005

Stress is now linked with heart disease, arthritis, ulcers, high blood pressure, constricted blood vessels, and mental disorders. These are the negative aspects of excess stress. But there are important positive aspects too.

An occasional shot of adrenalin is a great cure for boredom and indifference. We often do our best when we are under some stress. But beyond a certain level, which is different for each individual, stress becomes destructive.

Get to know how much stress you need to make you perform just that little bit better, but before it becomes damaging and unhealthy.

Making it work for you.

Everyone reacts differently to that ‘red alert’ stress. Some find great stress or even danger a great pleasure, for others it’s simply too much to cope with. A few even become addicted to stress, depending on high levels of stress hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenalin in the system instead of nicotine or alcohol. They live with prolonged high levels of stress for so long, that it seems normal. This can be serious.

For example, business tycoons and pop stars can suffer from being stressed, also alcoholics. They find it very hard to go back to normal everyday life.

Cigarettes and alcohol are not the answer either. Both bring many of the same physiological changes in the body as stress itself. Nicotine, for instance, raises blood pressure, the heartbeat rate, and levels of stress hormones, and cholesterol. While smoking and drinking may seem to help for the time being, they are actually contributing to the stress overload problem in the long run.

But when stress is handled well, it gives us added motivation to overcome obstacles, and an ideal warning system that brings awareness and strength to handle threatening situations that might damage or destroy our happiness, safety and self-esteem. The ability to work under pressure is an important asset.

Don’t try to avoid stress altogether – use it instead. Every crisis offers an opportunity to let the adrenalin work. Take some kind of action to burn up that extra stress-energy. Make a decision, hit the ball hard, scrub the floor very hard, run around the garden fast and when the crisis is over, learn to forget it and relax.

Excess tension can be eliminated with amazing ease, once you develop a tool for conscious relaxation and use it regularly. Deep relaxation and stress are like two sides of a coin; each is exactly opposite of the other brings about. They complement each other like light and dark, summer and winter. Learn to move from one to the other and you have a key to success in almost every thing you try. Sounds simple? It is.

Tranquillizers are not the best solution to continual stress; the longer you take them the less effective they become. There are serious side effects, too; try not to rely on pills to much.

To conclude: ‘If you listen to your fears you will die never knowing what a great person you might have been.” Read what Isaiah 39:18 states – “For I will surely deliver you, and you shall not fall by the sword; but your life shall be as a prize to you, because you have put your trust in me, says the Lord.”

For further information, treatment and training in massage therapy, do not hesitate to contact Nevis Holistic Massage Centre, at Farms Estate, Charlestown, Nevis. Tel: 469-5464.

• Newspaper Cover

November 4, 2005

• Entertainment

November 4, 2005

By Suelika N. Buchanan

The Observer

Julian Simmons a.k.a. Falasha out of Aruba launched his album recently at the Arts Arise “Positive Vibes” event held at the Oasis Café, at Frigate Bay Friday September 30th.

Simmons released his “Cultivate Your Mind” album which was produced locally by Jazzique Chiverton of Ball-A-Karn Productions while the music was done by Simmons and The 3rd Eye Band.

Simmons and the band performed live for about an hour and a half, singing songs that he said were written to simply ‘cultivate the minds’ of his listeners.

“The message in my music is basically saying to cultivate your mind, educate yourself for a higher purpose in life,” he said in an interview.

Simmons, a Rastafarian by religion said that music found him while in high school where he would perform for shows.

“When I first began singing at the time I was soul searching, I also began growing locks at that time and learning the ways of Rasta, so my inspiration for singing came from learning about Rastafari,” he said.

And it is no surprise that this root singer’s music is strictly conscious, reggae tunes that comes with a twist of ballad and R&B.

His album features 14 tracks including Cultivate Your Mind, Dance to the Reggae, Earth Heaven, Faya Faya, Free up your mind, Guided I an I, Righteous Melody, Justice, Reggae Sound System. Rise up African Children, Time, Oh Armelle and Where you can go, Serve your purpose are all music on the album.

The album is made up of rock steady dancing tunes that speak of where heaven is, fighting for Rastafari, asking God for guidance, freeing one’s mind, African people rising up and more.

In the interlude for the first track, Simmons chants, “Your mind is like a garden if you don’t check it, it will grow weeds, be careful of the things you are thinking, evil meditation will make the mind bleed… cultivate your mind, we living in a serious.”

Earth Heaven suggests where all Rastas believe in their paradise is, “earth heaven is in Africa, earth heaven is in Ethiopia”.

Guiding ‘I an I into tomorrow is track number six while track ten encourages African children to rise up, singing, “…wake up the time is now, rise up, we got to know our true identity, free up the mental change…”

“Oh Armelle” is recognizing the hard work of singles mother who struggle to keep their children alive, while track eleven entitled ‘Time’ says… “They leading the innocent youth astray time catching up on them.”

The 31-year-old Simmons, first received links with the Federation when he traveled to St. Kitts about seven years ago, from Aruba and met with Chiverton who also introduced him to Masud Sadiki of St. Kitts.

Sadiki describes Simmons as a positive brother who co-wrote and was featured in Sadiki’s first album hit “A Wonder How”.

“He has good vocal ability and is also a good writer,” Sadiki said of Simmons.

People for the first time witnessed the live performance of Sadiki and Simmons at his album launch when they performed together.

Simmons told The Observer ‘the vibe’ and his love for St. Kitts is why he chose to have the album release party here and was thankful to Arts Arise for having him.

The evening began with the regular poetry reading, freestyling and performances by Samal Duggins of Loop Stormz Entertainment, Sankofa Lion and Kalashka.

Arts Arise is in association with the Department of Culture and is the brainchild of Rodney Browne and Laurent Fough and is made up of five other members namely Unoma Allen, Michelina Mills, Gavin Skerrit and Marsha Henderson.

• Entertainment

November 4, 2005

By Suelika N. Buchanan

The Observer

There are now ten contestants left standing in the O.D Brisbane Smirnoff Ice Annual Karaoke Competition.

The finalists are five females; Ticoya Henry, Mareice Roberts, Petrula Clarke, Cordella Gilbert and Renetta Boyd while the five males are Dominic Matthew, Jermaine Camron a.k.a. CJ, Rally Bartlette, Mauriece Flanders a.k.a. E.K and Davey Wigley a.k.a. Biggers.

The competition was held at the BET Soundstage on Tuesday November 1, and was well attended as usual.

This time each contestant had to perform two songs of their choice that were not the same musical range.

Ticoya Henry stood out in the first round, Cordella was also consistent as well as Mareice.

The show was peppered with some interesting moments. For example Lauryn who sang in the first round, “Call The Man” sang “My love is your love” in the second round. She apparently sang the words too fast and got mixed up then demanded the controller of the music to start the song over again.

However, the judges would not allow her to continue as she should have in the first place, according to one of the judges Larry Vaughn, where she then stormed off the stage as the next contestant came on to sing.

Starting off the males was Rally Bartlette who became as animated as he possibly can onstage.

Everyone was ready and excited to hear what he would come with. But were they really ready for the gimmicks and expressions he would bring?

Some people almost fell out of their seats laughing, Rally sang “I believe I can fly” and did actions to show he was flying, doing moves that “cracked” everyone up.

He did not go easy on the crowd in the second round either, as he came all out with the song “Thriller” with an impression of the king of pop, Michael Jackson. Dressed in white gloves, black shoes and white socks, suspenders complimented with a whole lot of moon-walking, Rally moon-walked straight into our hearts and the finals.

The ladies of choice CJ broke out all cards as well when he comfortably sang “This I promise you.”

It was no surprise CJ made it to the finals, he has no problem hitting the high notes, any voice cracking, and everything was perfect. However his second song, “Thong Song” by Sisqo, was not a very good choice as it did not come off well in the end.

Davey Wigley a.k.a. Biggers gave us Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder in one night. In the first round he did a slow, melancholy love song by Jackson called “She’s Out Of My Life” and even shed a few tears at the end of the song. And in the second round happy and “blind” with eyes clothes and head moving form side to side he sang “I just called to say I love.”

The Observer got the views from some of the people who attended the semi-finals and asked them their opinion on who they think will win:

According to Shervin White it is going to be between Davey and E.K in the male round. “I think it’s between Davey and E.K, Davey sings with feelings and he chooses good songs. E.K was good and I think he could have done a little better but I think it’s going to be out of the two of them,” said Shervin.

Randy also agrees with Shervin.

“For the males, it’s either Biggers or E.K but the guys are really extraordinary in the competition they are running things… for the females it’s going to be Cordella, that girl can sing, she’s great,” he said.

However, Empress feels strongly that CJ will win hands down.

“He has the perfect voice and chooses the best songs and I think Ticoya will shine in the finals, she chooses songs that goes with her voice,” she said.

Jay disagrees and believes that Mariece is going to win because she has the best voice in his opinion and stage performance.

• Local News

November 2, 2005

Police are conducting investigations into the wounding of a female resident of New Ponds Site.

According to the newly appointed Head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Acting Superintendent Sidwin Browne, around 10:05 a.m. last Sunday, it was reported that Nicole Alleyne of New Ponds Site received injuries to her body during an alleged break-in.

Browne said Alleyne received several stab wounds to her body after a male intruder attacked her in her home.

He however noted that the wounds were not life threatening and she was treated for them at the Joseph N France General Hospital and subsequently discharged.

Police investigations are ongoing.

• Sports

October 28, 2005

By Trisha La Place

The Observer

The Newtown United Football Association was awarded $15,000 in sponsorship. The contract between the club and was signed under a 5-year agreement by both parties.

The presentation was held at Collin Periera Conference Room at the Ocean Terrance Inn on Wed Oct 20.

Noah Mills, TDC Relations and Marketing Manager gave a hearty welcome to the staff, press and football members.

Nicolas Menon, Exective Director, said that TDC often plays an active roll in sponsoring many activities within the Federation . Menon also stated “ we choose to sponsor Newtown United because they have the ability to accomplish promising goals and they don’t wait around for a hand out.”

Jason McKoy president of Newtown United football club gave a hearty thank you to TDC for sponsoring the team and stated he is extremely appreciative by the bold gesture to sponsor Newtown United.

He also said that the team is trying to put together programs to broaden youth academic skills throughout the community.

Some of the Club Members that were present at the ceremony are newly appointed coach Lennie Lake, Manger Derrick Fyfield and four members of the football club.

• Sports

October 28, 2005

By Celeste Hull

The Observer

Judging from the Superstar’s performance last Sunday, one can assume that they fully intend to vigorously defend their championship with a warning to any team happening to stand in their way.

Their bashing win over Cayon 4 – nil began early with two consecutive goals just 60 seconds apart both by Alister “Poodle” Warner and one by penalty conversion.

Cayon player Kevin Benjamin, whose performance fans would be familiar with from Cayon’s game the previous Sunday, obtained the ball and began searching for strikers who would take it home but was cut short when in the 19th minute Cayon defender Curtis Archibald fouled terribly consequently obtaining a red card.

Village midfield enjoyed general possession of the ball for the remainder of the first period but no more goals were made, much to Cayon’s relief.

Initially, Cayon came out blazing in the second half, enjoying good possession and control but were unable to make this pay with a goal. Players Tyrone O’Loughlin and Deshawn Jarvis disappointingly let several opportunities for Cayon to redeem itself pass them by and Village was instead able to recover the game scoring two more consecutive goals in the 89th and 90th minutes.

Village players Irate Byron and Floyd Hodge were the ones chosen by fate and skill to execute the goals, delivering the final blow to Cayon.

Al “Coahibu” Edwards of Cayon blamed Village’s first goal on “defensive errors” and the second one on “poor marking” in the 12th and 13th minutes. He explained, “Although we regrouped in the second half and had stronger possession of the ball, our shooting was off by a long shot.”

At 2 p.m that same day St. Pauls triumphed in a comfortable victory made possible by scoring from Joeski Frances and Koyian Benjamin.

Koyian Benjamin made the first goal in the 13th minute and Joeski followed through in the 40th. St. Pauls rounded up the game finally in the 80th minute with another goal by Frances.