Sturges Park in Plymouth was a large and safe cricket ground. It was part of the infrastructure of Montserratian society, and a place many probably took for granted.

Now Sturges Park is a place of the past. Cricket has moved to a smaller facility at Salem Park, with fewer appointments and safety features. At Salem Park batters frequently hit balls out of the park onto roads and private property, and this has Mr. Walter Lee wondering who is responsible for resulting damages or injuries.

On Sunday, Mr. Lee attended a cricket match in Salem and parked his car on the roadway adjacent to the sports field. A ball flew out of the playing area and smashed his windscreen, and now the unfortunate driver finds that no one will take responsibility for the damage.

Mr. Lee consulted a lawyer and was told someone should be liable for his broken window, but so far his insurance company, the cricket club and the government all refuse to pay.

His first reaction was to approach leaders of the cricket club. He spoke to both Mr. Fitzroy Buffonge and Mr. John Smith, but both said the club does not take responsibility for this kind of accident.

Later he called the Hon. Mr. David Brandt, Commissioner of Sports, but again he was told the government does not pay for people’s windscreens.

It was a similar story when Mr. Lee called his insurance agent. He was told that even if he had a comprehensive policy, his window would not be covered unless broken in a collision with another vehicle. Breaks from collisions with cricket balls probably wouldn’t count.

"The thing that worries me most is that no one from the Chief Minister down even has the decency to come out and say they are sorry," Mr. Lee said on Wednesday.

"Miraculously a pregnant woman told me she was standing near the car when the ball hit. If that pregnant lady had been killed or hurt: no apology, business as usual."

The damage to his car is presently estimated at between three and four thousand dollars, and that could be higher if a new windscreen for the Toyota must be ordered from Japan, which currently seems likely.

"If they had signs that said, ‘No Parking,’ it would be different," stated Mr. Lee. He feels until a safer cricket ground is established, the area around Salem Park should be a no parking zone during cricket matches. This could be achieved with signs or by having police on hand to move motorists along.

"Nobody tells you not to park there. If there were signs and you deliberately ignored them, then it would be your responsibility."

The incident with Mr. Lee’s car was not isolated. Another person standing in the road outside the park a day earlier also reported a ball hitting the road near where vendors were selling food to passers-by.

"What kind of people are these?" Mr. Lee complained. He said the reaction he received after revealing the damage to his car, and the close-call for the pregnant bystander, displayed a lack of manners or compassion.

"I went to the Commissioner of Sports, Mr. Brandt, and he told me they are not responsible for anyone getting hurt or cars being damaged. Mr. Buffonge and Mr. Smith say the same thing. You can’t just damage people’s property and think it’s all right."

with a visit to the Montserrat Volcano Observatory - Major eruption Unlikely

Director, Dr. Gillian Norton, at work in the seismic monitoring lab at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. She and her team are supplying data that some hope will enable scientists to measure the volume of magma beneath any volcano.

Mathematicians measuring Montserrat’s magma

Most Montserratians only want to know that the Montserrat Volcano Observatory is watching Castle Peak very closely, so warnings can be issued if the volcano misbehaves again. Despite the simplicity of this function, however, scientists with the British Geological Survey also have a broader agenda.

MVO Director, Dr. Gillian Norton, revealed this week that she and her colleagues are providing data that could lead to a greater understanding of volcanoes the world over.

In addition to monitoring the safety of the volcano, the MVO team also sends data to mathematical boffins elsewhere in the world. These mathematicians are trying to find a way to calculate the pressure and volume of magma inside a volcano.

"Volume is the key," according to Dr. Norton. If scientists can discover how to measure the volume of magma within a volcano, they can offer more accurate predictions about eruptions.

If they do succeed in finding a way to measure the magma in Montserrat’s volcano, it is hoped the same methods could be used to learn more about other active sites around the world. The procedure being used is to survey the growing dome, and other material that comes out of the volcano, to determine how much pressure is required to cause a dome collapse, an eruption, or some other type of activity.

"That’s all cutting edge science," remarked Dr. Norton, explaining that as field scientists, she and her team simply provide the raw data for this research, just as they provide safety information for the island.

Unfortunately, a lot of time is also consumed at the MVO trying to squelch inaccurate stories and rumours, many of them circulating in the overseas news media. Even while she was taking a few moments to update the Montserrat Reporter on the volcano’s status, Dr. Norton had to pause briefly to reassure a worried caller that something would be done to counter a fresh report out of the USA, which stated that the island was currently under evacuation following an horrific dome collapse.

Dr. Norton did confirm, however, that a dome collapse is likely. She said Castle Peak is presently soaring to an altitude of about 3,200 feet, which is approximately 200 feet higher than the volcano’s vent. This massive dome covers a mass of magma estimated at about 800 degrees centigrade.

The magma extrudes through parts of the dome, forming ‘exogenous spines’ which look something like giant pointed claws made of rock. The more of these rock formations there are, the heavier the dome becomes, and Dr. Norton and her team feel the constantly growing weight of the dome, together with ceaseless pressure from within the mountain, will eventually cause a portion of the dome to collapse.

A dome collapse does not involve rocks falling into the crater or vent, as some might imagine. It’s a rockslide exactly like any other, on any mountain anywhere in the world. The only difference is, when there is an avalanche on a mountain like Castle Peak, it exposes the magma within the volcano which then erupts as lava in a pyroclastic flow.

This outcome is a very likely one right now, not just because of the size of the dome, but also because many of the exogenous spines on the eastern side of the dome are perched in precarious positions.

"That eastern side, in places it’s unbelievably steep. It’s near vertical," Dr. Norton said.

There is a remote possibility that the dome will keep growing until its walls become so thick that they hold the magma inside, preventing further eruptions, but a rockslide with a new eruption is considered much more likely. However, it is not expected that such an eruption would devastate new areas of the island.

The lava that comes out of Castle Peak is viscous, not very fluid as with some volcanoes. As a result, it would have to erupt in a huge volume and at terrific speed to cover areas like Richmond Hill. Dr. Norton does not believe this will happen, although she cautions that volcanoes are always somewhat unpredictable.

Speaking at the MVO’s current headquarters high in the hills of St. John’s, Dr. Norton said it will be a year or more before her team moves into a new purpose built facility within sight of the volcano. In the meantime they watch it with electronic instruments, and will soon be adding a new video camera tower to their arsenal.

"The truth is, the reason we moved up here in the first place was because it was too dangerous where we were," she admitted.

Asked why her predecessor was once quoted as saying this is the most dangerous volcano in the world, Dr. Norton speculated that he probably meant it was dangerous because of its small exclusion zone. She said most active volcanoes are given exclusion zones of about 25 miles, but in Montserrat, where the entire island is little more than eleven miles at its largest diameter, there are people living within that usual 25 mile range.

This week Mr. Walter Lee is having a good moan on our pages, about a dangerous situation at Salem Park cricket field. And why shouldn’t he complain? He’s recognised a problem, and is now living with its consequences. Everywhere he turns people seem to want to wash their hands of this problem, and leave him to deal with it alone. Of course, he takes this personally, and turned to his local newspaper to vent some of his anger and frustration.

We don’t mind. We’re happy to provide a vehicle for people like Mr. Lee to express themselves to their community at large. It’s an important part of our job. Like so many problems that cross our news desk, however, we are able to see once again how the problem at Salem Park and the anxiety being felt by Mr. Lee are both indicative of the monumental task facing Montserrat as it recovers from catastrophe.

It seems highly unlikely that there is any villainy afoot in the management of Salem Park, or the cricket teams that play there. No one intended to bat a ball out of the park and smash Mr. Lee’s windscreen. No one wanted to upset or insult him by avoiding responsibility or ignoring his plight. Nevertheless, his property was damaged, and from his standpoint the reaction he received showed little understanding, responsibility or compassion.

There is a lesson in this for anyone who cares enough to learn from mistakes, their own or other people’s. Mr. Lee’s situation highlights yet another problem left over from the volcano. Moving from Sturge Park in Plymouth to the smaller Salem Park has increased the dangers posed by the otherwise civil and orderly game of cricket. Mr. Lee is absolutely right that instead of damage to his car, a ball could have struck a person and done them a lot of harm. Left unattended this threat will escalate. It’s just a matter of time before an even greater disaster occurs. Therefore, the only responsible and compassionate thing to do is address the problem with whatever remedial fixes are appropriate and plausible in the current circumstances.

Montserrat the tropical island paradise has been transformed by a volcano, into Montserrat the island of tireless effort and endless opportunity. When a cricket ball smashes a window in a car parked outside Salem Park, instead of ducking the issue we need to see another opportunity to add another tiny piece of infrastructure to our community. Perhaps this should come in the form of warning signs, or maybe some more creative solution is available. One way or another, however, the situation calls for the usual tireless effort and stubborn determination to get our rebuilding job done.

In his frustration, Mr. Lee has brought to our attention yet another problem that can only be solved or reduced by a community dedicated to principles of civic responsibilities and humanity. These problems do not have to be seen as personal confrontations of any sort. They should be simple examples of people seeing a problem and dealing with it as best they can. It’s the same story no matter where you look in Montserrat these days. Everywhere you look you can see another problem that calls upon us to be better people: more responsible; more aware of our civic duties; more creative in our problem solving; more compassionate with our neighbours.

Should Mr. Lee get a new windscreen for his car?

We happen to think that he should at least receive some assistance in this regard. Aside from suffering a loss that was not his fault, he has also shown sufficient community spirit to share the problem with everyone, in the hope that he can prevent it from happening again, perhaps with worse consequences.  At the very least he is due and apology, and some assurance that pragmatic remedial steps will be taken to reduce the dangers at Salem Park cricket ground.

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. - 2 Corinthians 4:15

At one time, I was disturbed by the Bible's many commands to praise God. Certainly God is worthy of praise, but why is God so concerned about it? I harbored fleeting suspicions that God might be conceited.

One afternoon, I met my friend Ann for lunch. Her smile reflected a joyful heart.

"I'm having such a good week," Ann explained. "I went to visit my mother on Sunday. She is such a good mother, but I have never told her how much I appreciate her or how much I love her. I finally told her what a wonderful job she did raising her children and what a fine example she set for us. I've felt exhilarated ever since. Thanking her made me feel wonderful."

I finally understood. Praising God helps us to appreciate God's nature as nothing else can and deepens our relationship with God .Now I am thankful for a heart that overflows with praise. Obeying God brings me joy. "How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!"

PRAYER: God, open our eyes to your greatness. May we come to know you and to praise your name forever. Amen.

Seeing God's greatness calls forth our praise.

Dear Editor,

The misinformation and scurrilous innuendoes of Mr. Bramble on "Labor Speaks" require a rebuttal. I refer only to the segment regarding mental health. He presented one valid point. Facilities for psychiatric patients, especially the few seriously disturbed ones, are desperately needed.

He asked who diagnoses and prescribes medication. The psychiatric nurse and I do. We both have extensive training and experience.

He asked if injection is the only form of treatment we administer. Certainly not, as he could have found out by asking either of us. The most satisfactory and interesting form of "treatment" is counseling, sometimes augmented by mild tranquilizers for short periods. This is appropriate for the great majority of people seeking help.

There are a few seriously disturbed patients here (estimated 100). They require long-term medication. Some of these reliably take their medicine in "pill" form and do well.

He speaks of "certifying" mentally ill people. The court order states that if a person is of "unsound mind" he/she may be "confined." This allows the police to bring the person for treatment. The court order is issued by the magistrate after he reviews the case. The criteria for a court order are one or more of the following:
1) The person is a danger to him/her self.

2) The person is a danger to others.

3) The person is unable to care for him/her self without attention.

The case must be reviewed each time the order is needed.

He objected to the use of the prison for mentally ill persons. No one has been put in prison for mental illness. All have broken a law that would have landed anyone in prison. Often they broke the law because of their mental illness. In rare cases we have had to hold the person there until medicine could take effect. This is far from desirable but it does keep the person safe, and others safe from him or her.

He objects to the use of the police to "intimidate" people. The police, with a court order, can bring patients for medication. These are patients who have not kept clinic appointments and are overdue for medication. The injected form is used to ensure that the patients get it, as they will not take it orally. Injected, it is effective for three to six weeks, depending on the individual. Most patients require monthly injections.

The most objectionable part of Mr. Bramble's speech was his implication that if the nurse had been more patient, tactful, etc., she would not have been attacked. The nurse was on a ward in the elderly facility at the hospital where the attacker is housed. She was talking to another person, had not approached our patient, and had her back to him. The attack was unprovoked and savage. Two men finally pulled him away. He had repeatedly knocked her down, struck and kicked her.

Mr. Bramble, you don't know what you are talking about. Clearly, your speech could only cause confusion, distrust and fear of psychiatry. Thankless, truthless accusations such as these will eventually leave you and the people of Montserrat to deal with the mentally ill problem yourselves. No trained person will work in such an atmosphere.

Beverly L. Anderson, M.D.

Dear Editor,

Please consider that this as my personal statement regarding the Paradise Regained Millennium Pilgrimage (PRMP) or Celebration 2000.

I got the program and details for the above mentioned event in summer 1999, and I was invited to join the performers because of my skills in art therapy as well my connections to travel agencies.

Subsequently I communicated about my ideas with the chairman of the committee of the of the PRMP and he promised to make arrangements for lodging, meals, ground transportation and reimbursement for my flight from Dusseldorf, Germany, to Antigua. The chairman of the PRMP assured me that he had a budget from the Montserrat Government, and that the responsible person for the PRMP on Montserrat would ask the airlines (Lufthansa and BWIA) to donate my ticket.

I trusted this arrangement, developed my ideas, made calls, sent my references and different letters, brought materials here, made my commitment free of charge but didn't get my travelling expenses from Dusseldorf to Montserrat (US $600 for ticket, US $30 hotel in Antigua, EC$28 taxi and EC$75 boat) reimbursed.

My time here was filled with visits and discussions with different persons in the government with respect to the above mentioned reimbursement everyday except on Saturday and Sunday. The matter was shifted from one person to another. They told me to do this and that. I don't want to go into details now and mention the persons I dealt with, but I believe that they were playing games not appreciating my visit to Montserrat, my person and my work, which was, as far as I could see- successful.

I learned the communication structures - considering the cultural difference- show a lack of communication abilities, planning qualities, international agreements plus obvious incompetence and inefficiency.

I am sorry that I will be leaving this island with the feeling that I fell into a trap and wasted my time, my energy and money.

I don't want to forget to mention my good experience on Montserrat interacting with private people. My intention to accept the invitation to be involved in the PRMP was to start a cultural exchange, to bring ideas and inputs to help deal with the problem of the devastation by the volcano; to share the personal life stories of the Montserratians and to promote ecotourism and adventure tours from Germany. My friend who runs a travel agency has an organisation that has travel agencies in all cities of Germany.

I am sorry about my bad experience in Montserrat, but I want to keep in mind my good experience with some people and the nature as well as the power in the North of Montserrat. As far as I could, I studied the situation and life on Montserrat and I wish the Montserratians to come back to a normal economic and natural life.

I assure again that this is my personal statement.

Dusseldorf, Germany.

The Hon. Mr. Brunel Meade, Minister of Agriculture and the Environment, moved to smother rumours that a mountain lion is loose on Montserrat.

A minor panic erupted when a visitor from Vermont, USA, reported seeing the animal at large in the Silver Hills. The man also made a videotape of the creature. Mr. Meade made it clear last week, however, that there is no evidence to confirm the man actually saw a puma.

"The puma has not been identified in Montserrat," Mr. Meade declared in the legislative council last week.

What the man saw is currently being described as a feline animal somewhat larger than a domestic cat.

He explained that fish and wildlife experts in Vermont are currently working on scat samples to determine the creature’s identity. Other workers in Michigan are trying to enhance the videotape image to get a clear still picture of the beast.

The minister reminded his colleagues that this procedure is always standard before attempting to kill such an animal. Various ecological groups, plus international government accords expect proper identification to make sure endangered species are not accidentally culled.

"The public will be kept informed of the findings and developments on this matter," he promised.

Pumas, mountain lions, or cougars as they are variously kinown seldom attack adult human beings unless provoked, although they have been known to hunt human children.

The plight of the mentally disabled on the island of Montserrat was the focus at a Housing and Mental Health Workshop held on 21 July, 2000 at the Vue Point Hotel.

In declaring the workshop open, Ms. Sarita Francis- Director of Housing welcomed all and stated that the main purpose of the workshop was to examine and make recommendations re; housing needs of the mentally disabled.

In attendance were H.E Governor- Anthony Abbot, Hon. Brunel Meade- Minister of Housing, Dr. Janet La Grenade- Psychologist of UWI, Ms.Faye Lumsden- Housing Consultant of Jamaica, Mr. Alrick Taylor- PS Ministry of Health, Dr. Gordon Avery- Chief Medical Officer, Ms. Anne-Marie Dewar-PS –MALHE and 32 participants from a cross section of the community and Government Departments.

Ms. Francis also reported that a Mental Health Working Group was formed in 1999 and with the assistance of DFID, Dr.La Grenade had undertaken a study of the mental health situation in Montserrat. She confirmed that households with mentally ill persons had received priority under the current housing program and under the new housing policy being formulated; Montserratians with a desire to return home would be included by way of a registration process.

H E Governor Abbot in his remarks disclosed that since the volcanic crisis, the mentally ill had lost the support of family and the community and in light of the violent behaviour reportedly displayed by the mentally ill, it had become a matter of urgency to seek a solution. He added that negotiations for a new Country Policy Plan (CPP) was due to commence in September, 2000 for the period April, 2001 to March, 2004 thus the need to include a program in this plan.

The Minister for Housing – Hon. Brunel Meade acknowledged that the mentally ill had fallen in the cracks, while the country concentrated on recovery from the volcanic crisis. They cannot speak or act for themselves; therefore it was the responsibility of others to step in on their behalf.

Representing Minister Tuitt was Mr. Alrick Taylor-PS Ministry of Health. He apologised for the Minister’s absence and confirmed that mental health was top priority in the Ministry and infact a draft policy was being finalised.

Dr. Janet La Grenade in her presentation applauded the Health Department’s care for the mentally disabled in the past, but this had been affected negatively by the volcanic crisis. She reported that there are 100 registered mentally ill persons on the island, age group 19-80 years, 30 of whom require residential support and a visibility rate in excess of 10 percent. She recommended the provision of a large residential facility, which would provide all aspects of care and rehabilitation and inclusive of a drop-in centre and said that psychosocial rehabilitation is more effective when it is community based.

Three separate groups held discussions and made recommendations on the following: - "Housing Design and Location," "The Role of NGO’s," and "Mental Health Policy/Plan and Assessment."

In closing, Dr. La Grenade recommended as a step forward the forming of a Steering/Implementation Committee and the appointment of a Project Director. Terms of reference are to be decided upon for the Committee due to meet on 2 August 2000.

The closing remarks were given by Ms. Anne- Marie Dewar- PS (MALHE) who thanked the participants. She vouched the Ministry’s support and called on all stakeholders to continue their support in this venture- this by general consensus, would ensure the success of the Housing / Mental Health Care Program.

Chief Minister, the Hon. Mr. David Brandt revealed last week that delinquent taxes dating back to 1966 total a whopping $14.7million.

Responding to a question in the legislative council, Mr. Brandt explained that about half of the back-taxes are personal income taxes, while the other half is a mixture of company taxes and land taxes. He remarked that most of the unpaid land taxes were levied against properties in the island’s exclusion zone.

Mr. Brandt told the council that there have recently been some successful collections of tax arrears.

St Augustine School Plans Big Anniversary Celebrations By Cathy Buffonge

St Augustine's Catholic Primary School will soon celebrate its 125th anniversary, and to mark this important milestone the school is planning a week of celebrations, to be held in September.

The week, which runs from 24 to 30 September, will start with a thanksgiving mass at St Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Salem. During the week several exciting events are planned, with something of interest on each day. Activities planned include an island tour, a radio call-in panel discussion, an International Lunch and Historical Exhibition, and a Cultural Explosion Parade.

There's also to be a moonlight social evening at the church grounds, and on the Friday a Dinner, Cabaret and Awards evening. The environment is not forgotten, and there's to be a tree planting exercise, as well as community service in the form of visitation of the elderly. The week rounds off with a Reunion Ball, which is expected to attract many former students and friends of the school.

To go along with the celebrations an Aniversary Booklet is being prepared, with messages of support, highlights of the school's history and other interesting information about the school. Specially printed T-shirts will also be on sale during the week.

Deeply involved in the preparations for the Anniversary is Mrs Eileen Edwards, who has just retired from the position of School Prinicipal, along with a special committee. Mrs Edwards points out that the school takes a holistic approach to education, and is dedicated to developing the whole person. The school has been doing a great job in the community and is open to all regardless of race, creed or social standing; and it is noteworthy that less than a third of the present students are Roman Catholics.

St Augustine's was founded in 1875, and in future articles we will give some glimpses of the school's history, as well as recollections of the school, and some highlights of how the school has coped with the present volcanic situation

During the past school year, students selected for "Simply The Best" should have:

1. shown great effort in his/her academic work throughout the school year
2. been regular and punctual in school attendance
3. shown leadership ability among peers
4. demonstrated good behaviour
5. performed beyond the regular call of duty i.e. someone who can always be "called on", by teachers or who volunteers when the need for assistance is evident
6. contributed significantly to school life through extra-curricular activities i.e. debating society, sports, etc.

NB The persons named should be good role models and ambassadors for the school. Further, effort rather than class placement is emphasized. Therefore, a child can place fifth, and be named before the child who placed first in his/her class if great effort was demonstrated.

The Montserrat Red Cross is this year sponsoring "Simply the Best".

"Simply the Best" is the brain child of Psychologist Dr Carol Tuitt, who initiated this programme in the Montserrat Secondary School in 1989.

The following students - 

• Sherasmust Harris 
• Marlon Fergus
• Philip Walters 
• Alexander Krakowar
• Nadia Duberry 
• Thandie Williams
• Dorian Cooper 
• Antoinette Silcott
• Tonya Cassell
• Dejoie French 
• Sharra Greenaway
• Jasmine Hixon 
• Terrisia Semper
• Leroy Lee 
• Luann Lewis
• Dwayon Barnwell 
• Vansley Kirnon
• Erica Thomas 
• Kimesha Ryan
• Dyonne Duberry 
• Ronnie Cooper
• Julia Lee 
• Odingo Gordon
• Philbert Codrington 
• Dmitri Tuitt

were selected for the year 2000 based on specific criteria:

By: Gary Chambers

I fiery debate in the legislative council last week exposed a philosophical difference on crime and punishment among leaders in Montserrat.

Most of the debate centred on the Firearms Act 2000, a proposed law restricting the ownership and use of firearms, but it was prefaced by a procedural delay of Penal Code Amendment 2000. The latter bill would completely remove the death penalty as a sentencing option in Montserratian courts, although it seemed a bit redundant, since this has already been accomplished through British parliament.

Receiving its second reading before the legislative council, the new gun law provides stiff penalties for a range of offences. These include controversial life imprisonment terms for a number of crimes that may not involve death, injury, or even the discharge of a firearm. Its timing in relation to the temporary withdrawl of the penal reform act, left little doubt that the two laws could never have logically survived on the books side by side.

Attorney General, the Hon. Mr. Brian Cottle, first offered the Penal Code Amendment act for its second reading, but then asked the speaker to delay the reading because he was unfamiliar with the bill, as it had been written by a previous administration. Speaker, Dr. Howard Fergus, said the request was reasonable and allowed Mr. Cottle to sideline the formal abolition of capital punishment until the next meeting of the legislative council.

Mr. Cottle then introduced the Firearms Act, also scheduled for its second reading, and that was when opposition member, the Hon. Mr. Reuben Meade, went on the attack.

"We’re looking at legislation possibly for the sake of legislation," he charged. "Government can’t find anything to bring to the house, so they just pick up any old thing."

Mr. Meade pasted the government for spending time on gun control laws when there are workers on the island who cannot access a guaranteed minimum wage. Ruled out of order by Dr. Fergus, on the grounds that his remarks regarding labour standards were not germaine to the issue, Mr. Meade then made a second attempt to debate the overall relevance of the bill in relation to other issues.

"What is the significance of this?" he asked, "I really don’t see this as one of the priorities."

He remarked that workers who are victims of poor labour laws might not get shot with a gun, but are victims nonetheless.

"The honourable member will abide by the ruling and debate the merits of the bill," interrupted Dr. Fergus.

Again the opposition leader modified his attack, this time sticking to the letter of the new firearms law, with some references to the delayed Penal Code Amendment. He began by referring to a section of the bill giving a police commissioner power to deny or cancel a person’s membership in a gun club, based on that member’s performance in gun sports activities.

"It’s a club. The club ought to determine its membership," Mr. Meade stated, adding that he fears if government officials are given power to determine club memberships, this could extend into other kinds of clubs, reviving problems of social exclusion due to economic class, race or colour.

"Perhaps there could be a requirement for members to be licensed before they become members," he suggested, pointing out that a police commissioner would then still have the right to deny or suspend a firearms permit, but no direct power to control membership of a private club.

Mr. Meade charged that the government was toying with bills of little importance, at a time when Montserrat needs important legislation to help it into a period of recovery and rebirth. He said it was confusing to consider how a government could introduce a bill like the Penal Code Amendment for second reading, then have to delay it because they had not read and understood it beforehand.

"All papers coming before this house must go before the executive council before they are tabled here," he noted.

According to Mr. Meade’s reading of the Firearms Act, a person could go to gaol for life for having two firearms offenses of any kind, regardless of whether the offender ever fired a gun in the commission of a crime.

"We have not had gun crimes in Montserrat," said the opposition member. "We don’t have a gun problem."

He pointed out that the penalty for simply owning an illegal firearm, regardless of whether it is ever used, is from two to five years for a first offense, and from seven years to life for a second conviction. Under this law a person could spend their life in prison, perhaps without recourse to parole, just for owning a firearm, but without ever having killed or injured anyone.

"I find this disturbing," declared Mr. Meade. "I really don’t think that the sentences are in keeping with the offenses to which they are addressed."

He pointed out that if the gun bill passes without modifications to its stiff sentences, it would make a mockery of the outlawed death penalty. If the gun control law is passed without such amendments, people could be subject to the same penalty for owning an illegal weapon as they would face if convicted of cold blooded murder.

Mr. George Dowdye, accused of wounding, had his preliminary inquiry adjourned in magistrate’s court on Monday. The crown requested the adjournment to await the results of a medical report on the accused.

The accused appeared without a lawyer and chose not to ask questions at Monday’s proceedings, in case it prejudiced his case at a later trial.

Police charged Mr. Dowdye following an incident on July 15^th in which a nurse suffered injuries.

Minister for Housing, the Hon. Mr. Brunel Meade revealed in the legislative council last week that sale price figures should be available in August for properties in phase two of the Lookout homes project.

Mr. Meade said the consultants are now developing a plan for the area, which will include the total number of serviced lots. Their report will go to the government some time in August for approval and funding of construction and development plans, and the minister hopes work on the final ten homes funded by CARICOM will begin before the end of this year. So far only 15 of the 25 homes promised by CRICOM have been erected.

While the consultants produce their urban plan, the ministry is also developing a Comprehensive Housing Strategy for the entire island.

"A final value (of the homes) will be determined soon after that," said Mr. Meade.

It was also revealed that the current budget for the project shows the homes will have a construction cost of $200,000 each.

"We will be seeking every opportunity to reduce these expenses," he assured opposition members.

Mr. Meade said every effort is being made to make sure this expenditure delivers value for money. He pointed out that mistakes were made in previous construction plans, and these mistakes may yet result in some residents of new homes in the Sweeney’s area being moved again into more suitable housing. The housing ministry boss said the mistakes were made by previous policy makers.

Dr. Lowell Lewis has launched an exhibition of photographs entitled ‘Montserrat Past And Present’. Dr. Lewis has transformed the waiting room of his clinic, the Happy Hill Medical Centre in Salem, into a small gallery where he hangs the photographs for public viewing between one and three PM each weekday. He also intends to include slide shows and video recordings in the exhibit from time to time. Dates and times of these showings will be announced in advance.

The photos are all the work of Dr. Lewis, his brother Mr. Glen Lewis and local photographer Mr. Kevin West. The exhibition is dedicated to Dr. Lewis’ great-grandmother, Miss Augusta Ryan, and her daughters Miss Sarah Ryan and Mrs. Jane Perkins. The senior Miss Ryan lived to one-hundred-one years of age passing away in 1984.

Patrons are asked to consider a donation of one dollar upon entry, to help pay for future improvements to this long term exhibition.

"This is the first phase and we’ll add to it as time goes by," said Dr. Lewis this week.

Antigua, CANA

Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) was meeting in Antigua Thursday to look at issues it said would have an impact on sub-regional economies.

At the formal handing over ceremony of the chairmanship to Antiguan Finance Minister John St. Luce Wednesday night, all the speakers made references to initiatives by the developed countries that were causing concern in the wider Caribbean.

These issues surrounding the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) declaration of several regional countries as harmful tax havens and the financial advisories slapped on some countries by the US and Britain for perceived tax legislation regarding their off-shore sectors.

Outgoing chairman, Anguillan Finance Minister Victor Banks, told his Antiguan colleague that he assumed the mantle when many challenges lie ahead for the EC dollar and the economy in the sub-region as whole.

St. Luce responded by stating that with challenges come opportunities.

He accused the developed countries on ganging up against regional countries at a time when they have stopped providing aid to the region because the cold war is over.

ECCB governor Dr Dwight Venner said the next few months was going to be an extremely difficult period.

Nevis, CANA - 

The St. Lucia-based French Ambassador to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Henri Vidal, explained Thursday why France pulled out of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Vidal said part of the reason was the fact that three of the poorest nations in the Caribbean did not benefit as they are not members of the bank.

Speaking in Charlestown, Nevis, after a meeting with Premier Vance Amory, the ambassador noted that there "has been a misunderstanding regarding the motivation, (and) some people are saying that France is not interested in the affairs of the Caribbean countries".

Vidal said what people are saying is not the truth as, apart from its dissatisfaction of the bank's running, France had also to look at the interests of countries like Haiti, Dominican Republic and Cuba.

These countries have large populations but would not gain through the CDB, as they are not its members.

"To show that this decision had nothing to do with lack of interest for the Caribbean area, the US$50 million France had dedicated to the development funds of the CDB is going to remain as a gift," reported the Ambassador.

He added that France's participation capital of US$10 million was going to be shifted to the American International Development Bank to be dedicated especially to the Caribbean countries.

"The Caribbean area is not going to lose anything from the withdrawal," the French envoy said.

According to the French Ambassador, Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony of St. Lucia was sent to Paris as the new chairman of the board of governors of the CDB, where he was given a fair hearing and that he (Dr. Anthony) is now awaiting an outcome.

The French Ambassador noted that he held Thursday's meeting with Vance Amory in his capacity as Leader of Opposition in the Federal Parliament, as he would be meeting with the Federal Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas in St. Kitts on Friday.

In the meeting, that was also attended by Clara Walters, Permanent Secretary in the Premier's Ministry, the recent blacklisting of some Caribbean offshore financial jurisdictions by the OFCD was discussed.

He was told by Premier Amory of the efforts being put in place by the OECS and CARICOM countries for the improvement of the necessary legislation.

Ambassador Vidal said that France did not see the action by the OECD as being too punitive on developing countries or destabilising their economies.

He noted that France had been active in fighting the laundering of dirty money from organised crimes, an industry that involves billions of dollars every year.

The British teenager charged in Guyana with allegedly trying to smuggle 11 pounds of cocaine inside false compartments of a suitcase has been granted bail in the amount 8,333 U.S. dollars -- that's 1.5 million Guyana dollars.

Principal Magistrate Dawn Gregory Barnes granted 17-year old Selina Brown, her pre-trial liberty when she made her second appearance in court on Wednesday.

Under Guyana's drug laws any person under 18-years is considered a "young person" and may be granted bail.

Brown, of South London was arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri, two Tuesdays ago as she attempted to board a flight to London.

Grenada, CANA - Maintenance workers at Grenada's Point Salines International Airport returned to work Thursday following a one-day strike.

Their decision to end the strike followed a promise from the airport management that uniforms would be handed out to them by Monday.

The 30 employees stopped work Wednesday to protest the failure of the airport management to stick to its promise of providing them with uniforms.

The workers have described the airport's management as inconsiderate and are complaining that working without uniforms is turning to be a major inconvenience.

Shop Steward Royston Pierre is accusing airport management of ignoring an agreement reached with the Technical and Allied Workers Union 18 months ago.

"All the other departments already have uniforms. The nature of our work we are loosing a lot of clothes and we have to buy our own clothes to come to work. We have certain protective wear but we do not have general uniforms," Pierre told reporters Thursday.

The industrial action by maintenance workers follows a crippling solidarity strike by general staff roughly two months ago which led to many flights being postponed and nearly triggered a shutdown of the country.

The Point Salines Airport is undergoing a multi-million dollar expansion which involves the refurbishing of the runway and the construction of additional countres and duty free facilities.

In Dominica, car dealers have welcomed the initiative by the government to impose penalties on the importation of used vehicles, but said the measures have not gone far enough.

General Manager of Acme Garage, Peter Karam, said while he was supporting the measure, the surcharge was too small to act as a deterrent.

Karam said Wednesday that the high rate of used vehicle importation posed problems for Dominica, because of difficulties in sourcing spare parts, and the international concerns about emission standards.

Barbados, CANA - 

Teenage cricketers from 19 school teams from the Caribbean, Canada and the United Kingdom will sign the United Nations International Drug Control Programme's (UNDCP) "Cricketers Against Drugs" pledge here on Thursday.

Around 300 young cricketers from Barbados, Grenada, Canada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Tobago, Trinidad and the United Kingdom have been in Barbados for the past two weeks participating in the annual Sir Garfield Sobers International Schools cricket tournament.

This year's tournament was won by Grenada Combined Schools, who defeated Foundation School of Barbados in the final at Kensington Oval on Tuesday by three wickets.

Captains of the participating teams have agreed to sign the UNDCP pledge.

At last year's tournament, Sir Gary signed the pledge, as did former West Indies captain Brian Lara while earlier this year, veteran fast bowler Courtney Walsh and the entire West Indies team signed the pledge during the May Test match in Barbados against Pakistan.

Walsh was also appointed as UNDCP Goodwill Ambassador for Sports, Not Drugs.

During the acceptance ceremony, Walsh urged young people to "stay away from drugs...and live your dreams."

According to "illicit drugs harm your body, decrease your ability to perform well and react quickly. A lifestyle that includes drugs does not go with the training and attitude needed to be a good athlete."

Over 1,000 cricketers have already signed the pledge, including the Barbados national team. Since August 1999, the campaign has expanded to include a netball against drugs programme in the region.

Trinidad, CANA 

Trinidad and Tobago police on Wednesday smashed a gun-running ring, seizing several weapons as well as over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, according to local newspapers.

The ring was allegedly headed by Trinidadian fugitive Neil Salazar, in his 30s, also called Gary Lambert, and wanted by the American authorities in connection with at least two murders in Miami, the Press said.

Salazar was arrested in St Vincent over the weekend and deported. He left Wednesday evening, accompanied by FBI officials.

The arms and ammunition were seized during a raid on a house in Santa Rosa in the eastern region, which also resulted in the arrest of a 28-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman.

Among the guns seized were a high-powered rifle, and semi-automatic and automatic pistols.

Some 1,221 rounds of assorted ammunition were also seized.

Police said the house was under surveillance for two weeks before they made their move to carry out the raid.

Police believe the arms and ammunition had been imported from the US since May and were cleared by one of the ports here.

Montserratian and Leeward Islands fast bowling all-rounder Lesroy 'Cosmic' Weekes created a serious scare for the West Indies in their latest match in England. Weekes took 6 wickets for 56 runs from his 23 penetrating over spell, which included 10 maidens.

Playing for Yorkshire who were in their 1^st innings for just 126, Weekes soon had West Indies in early trouble clean bowling Chris Gayle for 1 and trapping Adrian Griffith LBW for 5 with only 12 runs on the score board. Weekes' third victim was senior opener Sherwin Campbell whom he clean bowled for 7 to have the Windies struggling at 38 for 3 wickets. When Wavel Hinds went with the total, still at 38 the debacle at Lords must have flashed before the West Indies.

However, Captain Adams 27 in 111 balls and Sarwan added 47 before Weekes had Sarwan caught for 32 and West Indies 85 for 5. Victim no.5 for the burly Montserratian was Nagamootoo who top scored with 40. Weekes completed his demolition act with the wicket of Corey Collymore for 14 thereby achieving his best first Class bowling figures.

Scores in the match: Yorkshire 126 and 94. Walsh 5 for 19 in the first and Mc'Lean 5 for 49 in the second innings. Windies 209 and 12 for none. Weekes 6 for 56. West Indies won by 10 wickets.

Lesroy Weekes

Record in Red Stripe Cup:

Batting: 19 matches 28 innings, 5 not outs, 413 runs highest 46 Vs. Guyana, average- 18.

Bowling: 19 matches: 53 wickets, at 28 runs each, best bowling: 5 for 83.

Regional Limited Over Record:

9 matches, 14 wickets for 289 runs, at 20.5 runs each. Best bowling 7-1-33-4. His most economical Limited Over spell is 10 overs for 17 runs Vs Trinidad in 1996. Weekes is the only Montserratian with over 50 wickets in first class cricket. Weekes was the second of three fast bowling allrounders from Montserrat to play for the West Indies youth cricket team. The other two were Austin White (who captained the West Indies team to England) and Tyrone Greenaway.

Lesroy Weekes still holds the Montserratian record for the most wickets in a season in Leeward Islands Tournament (34wickets) 13 in one match.

At age 29 he may still be in the reckoning for the West Indies selection especially after his recent performance against the best the Caribbean had to offer.

It is not easy to ignore the talk that 40 or more candidates plan to contest the next elections. Still we must consider it as mere talk and ignore it.

Yet, those of us who know that the next elections will be very important for the future of Montserrat must stay focused. We have to eliminate all unsatisfactory candidates. We must find a way, before nomination day, to show and tell unsatisfactory candidates that we do not want them to represent us.

True enough, the interest generated by the new voting system is good; but we still have to raise the voter education process to another level. Candidates need to know what is expected of them as parliamentarians or representatives of the people of Montserrat. We need representatives who can speak properly, who can read properly and who can write properly. More than ever we must ensure that every legislator in the next parliament understands the word budget and its relationship to taxes, profit, revenue, expenditure and development.

This article is another in the series on Taxation. It will focus on the topic Budget.

No one can deny that the matter of Budget or Budgeting is especially relevant as we move away from disaster emergency aid towards self-efficiency. In fact, as our current parliamentarians grapple with the task of establishing real rates for electricity, water and cooking gas, it is urgent that they too understand the term Budget and Budgeting.

The topic is also most relevant to the candidates that will be legislators in the next parliament; because they will have to determine the level of services for which Montserrat taxpayers must pay.

In my opinion, a budget is a list of projected or expected expenses and an explanation of how those expenses will be financed. For example, each year our Chief Minister will tell us the projected expenses for each department, then he would explain that taxes, custom duties, fees etc. must be collected to pay for the projected expenses. Put another way, the budget is an explanation of the taxes collected and how those taxes would be spent. This is simply put, but the preparation of a Country’s budget requires understanding of much more complex issues.

Therefore if the candidates were to become legislators, they would have to sensibly participate in Budget preparation, presentation or debate; and that requires something more than wanting to run for office. They must have respect for and understanding of our system of Tax Laws. They must have superior knowledge of the market forces, which propel and maintain the commercial enterprises. And they must have excellent appreciation for the standard of living that prevails on Montserrat. We must make our demands very clear to the candidates, even if it is only in the area of budgeting and taxation.

Throughout the series on Taxation, it was constantly stressed that our system of tax laws also included the provision of services by the Port Authority, Water and Electricity. And recently we have added Fuel and Cooking Gas. Furthermore, the public is anticipating the merger of water and electricity into one profitable operation.

Thus, the candidates must understand how these institutions are financed and the role that proper budgeting plays in the rates charged by these semi-government departments.

And each candidate must be able to explain the implications of that merger in terms of efficiency.

You see, politics is everything about Budgeting, taxation, legislation and being in Parliament. The business of Parliament is legislation. Legislation is about taxation. And taxation is about Budgeting. We must no longer allow uninformed and unsatisfactory candidates to present themselves for election. We must act now. We must do something. If you can’t write, say something. Tell them you do not think that they are capable enough to represent you.

For my part, I write. I write about Taxation as it could be understood by the ordinary person; because I love Montserratians and I am tired of shitty representation.

I write about Taxation because it is my responsibility to determine that those who make it to "Nomination Day" are worthy of my vote.

I write about Taxation because it is my responsibility to pre-select those who will legislate how my tax dollar is spent.

Somehow, together we must join in the voter education process so that unsatisfactory candidates would think twice before opening their mouths in front of us.

This has been more than a mouthful…

Still I must give you something to chew on.

Do you think that more than 15 names should be on the ballot paper??

Expressions of triumph at the signing of the soft mortgage scheme have made few Montserratians happy. What is a mortgage? It is the hard earned money of a would be homeowner, that is the shared out to a variety of people before he earns it. 5 percent to the bank, 5% to the lawyer for conveyancing, 3% to the agency that provides the money, and varying percentages to the architect, building materials supplier, transporter of materials, and the labour force that builds the house. A major boost to many sectors of the economy.

So, why the restrictions on who can access the mortgages, at a time when almost everybody needs help in getting a new home? Those who are too old, or without secure employment wish for some one else to build a home for them to rent.

The condition for a mortgage should simply be the ability to repay. If there is a limit on the total, amount available. Then selection according to need is valid. I understand that the restrictions are imposed because of the subsidies and grants attached. These only and not the whole mortgage should be subject to the need assessment.

A soft mortgage scheme is no good to someone who lost everything in Weekes, Cork Hill or St Patrick's who owes money on their last mortgage, has no work or income and is too old to guarantee repayments over the required time. If the powers that be wanted to create real joy, we should have been given a scheme where the percentages to the bank, lawyers, and duty on materials were reduced or waived. A scheme where anybody with the ability to pay had access. A scheme where the monies offered were enough to build a secure hurricane proofs 2-bedroom concrete ground floor. A scheme, where $50,000 in the bank was regarded as simply the ability of someone to build a better home rather than a reason for exclusion. Alternative sources for financing construction in Montserrat are not readily available.

Why is the scheme too late? Too late because it came at time when those who had a little money, have spent it. In addition a significant proportion of the labour force for construction has departed, and there is now a down turn in the economy, generated by the new social welfare scheme which does not include pensions for the elderly, or unemployment benefit for those temporarily out of work.

In October 1997, I had the good fortune to meet, with bubbly, energetic concerned businessman, Mr Gus Williams of Antigua. Together we visited a Minister of Hon

Mr Blair’s government at her constituency office in Birmingham, and gained an indication of support for, among other things, a project which would provide mortgages for Montserratians relocated to Antigua and St Kitts/Nevis. At that time, no one was prepared to support any mortgage scheme in Montserrat, because ash was every where. All we had to do was to collect about 100 names of persons desirous of building a house in their new location. We designed an appropriate questionnaire and brought them to Antigua for distribution among the Montserrat community there. Mr Eric Martin drove us to an estate, which the Government of Antigua had indicated could be made available.

Our efforts were voluntary, but potentially rewarding, since the objective was to secure a business deal which would provide homes for Montserratians in Antigua, so that their relocation grants would not all be gone for good on rent. In the event of their return to Montserrat, they would retain an asset capable of providing an income from rent.

Two months later, another person arrived in Antigua under the auspices of an official agency, to conduct a proper survey and collect similar information. Our efforts were made obsolete. Somebody got a job, and not many got mortgages. The saga continues. Decisions continue to be taken, which are not in the interest of the ordinary people of Montserrat.

A mortgage scheme provided an opportunity for Britain to make good what should be a commitment to provide housing for all, and not just the vulnerable members of our society. To demonstrate its determination to develop the North and to make Montserrat economically and sustainably viable.

The dialogue in this issue must continue.

Last weekend a good friend of mine said to me, "I strongly disapprove of any overseas person coming back to vote." A few minutes later he said, "The economic situation is so bad that I may have to pack up and leave in the next month or so." He is on the electoral roll and I know he will return to vote.

Montserratians overseas have always had a say in elections here. In 1991, several old people in St Patrick's told me "I would vote for you because we are family, but my children in England tell me to vote for Mr Osborne, because he is the only candidate who can do anything for me".

Many do not share my view that justice has been done by the decision to allow anyone on the 1996 list to come back and register by the 31^st August 2000, with out the need for a period of residence. I will never support voting by postal ballot, because the size of the electorate is too small to accommodate such a system. In general, I believe that the people living in a community should determine their own leaders. At the present time there are members of our community who are overseas, but everything they own is in Cork Hill, Weekes, Salem or Richmond Hill. They are overseas because they have no where to live and no employment for an income. Living temporarily in the UK in a council house on benefits does not stop someone from being a member of the Montserrat Community. Why should someone at home, because Salem is reopened, be more entitled to vote than someone who will return as soon as Cork Hill or Foxes Bay is reopened. We are our brother's keeper, and we should not want for others what we do not wish for ourselves.

ZJB"s call in program on the eve of Emperor Selasse's Anniversary was enlightening. The need for education on both sides was very apparent. It was interesting to learn that the perception of X being a symbol for wrong could become a reason for individuals not 'participating' in the electoral process. At one time, pay roll slip carried a long line of X's, because all the payees had the same signature.

Whether it is an X for Xmas or an R for Rasta, there are several concerns about the holding of the next election. How many Xs to make? How to count to nine?

Can you take into the booth a slip with the names you want to vote for?

Will the photographs help? What if Mr Brandt and Dr Lewis wear their glasses and have the same hair cut?

There will be problems for the candidates, which may number well over 40. Should they vote for anyone else or only team members? If beaten by one vote, one may have voted themselves out of council.

This election calls for some special safe guards. A pen that makes only 9 X's. A ballot paper that flashes or makes a noise when 9 have been chosen. Modern technology allows us to be more realistic. We could have polling booths with computer controlled voice responses, which could include. "You have selected candidate John Smith. Please confirm Yes or No by pressing appropriate button." After the confirmation button, another message could say, "You have? (8 to No) votes remaining." If the voter is deaf or blind, the agent of the electoral office could assist as necessary.

This democracy experiment may cause chaos and confusion, but there must be proper planning, and those of us who believe in a truly democratic Montserrat must be assured that the event will be run fairly and smoothly.

SERVICES OFFERED AT THE HEALTH CENTRES By: Jeanette Brade SENA

Several services are offered at the Health Centres. These include:

1. Hypertensive and Diabetic Clinics
2. Antenatal and Family Planning
3. Home Visits
4. Child Welfare
5. Doctor’s Clinic

Today special emphasis will be placed on the doctor’s clinic as each health centre conducts a Doctor’s Clinic on a specific day each week.

Patients are therefore asked to check in one hour before the doctor arrives that is 8:00 am to 9:00 pm. This is to enable the smooth operation of the clinic and give the nurse the opportunity to check and record vital signs e.g, weight, height, blood pressure, temperature, urine testing as well as make preparations for other examinations that the doctor may wish to do. It is not possible for the nurse to be checking in a patient and yet be in the room to assist the doctor and clarify any concerns that that patient may have. Patients are also asked to take with them all medication that they are using.

It is important to know that all persons, regardless of age can see the doctor but persons who are less than 60 years who do not have any chronic illness will have to pay for laboratory test, x-ray, ECG and medications.

In closing, I would like to remind all clients and patients to keep their appointments with the doctor, take their medication as prescribed and do not run out of your treatment. Some persons who fail to comply with the above often come to the Casualty Department for routine things such a repeat of prescription and checking of blood sugar and blood pressure.

It is very important to note that the Casualty Department is for EMERGENCIES only. However, should it become necessary for a patient to visit the Casualty Department he/she should first check with the Health Centre to obtain a referral letter.

Do cooperate with the District Nurses and other Health Staff as they endeavour to provide quality care for all.

Jus wonderin if the CM will build his country residence at Lookout 2.

Jus wonderin who will take their own money and build on an exposed cliff side when they can get a nice piece of sheltered land in Bakers Hill or St Johns.

Jus wonderin why everybody want to suite jus wonderin so.

Jus wonderin if they know the truth does really hurt.

Jus wonderin if they know they can't stop people from wonderin

Jus wonderin what is really happening in this country.

Jus wonderin if we are really sailing down the drain and why can't the captain turn the ship around.

Jus wonderin when Montserratians will open up their eyes so the country could survive.

Jus wonderin if they don't know that we Montserratians are been boxed, kicked, thumped and stamped on.

Jus wonderin when the economy will get back on its feet and start kicking again.

Jus wonderin if the soon to be fenced burial ground means that it will be closed and where the new site will be.

Jus wonderin if the gov't is really seriously considering building houses within 100 ft of the cliff at Lookout.

Jus wonderin if jus wonderin finally got the message across about the GHQ road.

Jus wonderin what took them so long.

Jus wonderin if this intriguing column is really doing good for the country by tying up all the loose ends.

Jus wonderin if there are lots in store for us this Cudjoe Head Day.

Jus wonderin if now the sugar mill at Lookout is the property of the Gov't of Mrat if they will turn it into a museum.

Jus wonderin if the now rocket prices for food will be causing a serious increase in malnutrition when people will soon can't afford to buy them.

Jus wonderin where is the officer when we need him most.

Jus wonderin if he is sleeping on parade.