text:
Page 1
One Dollar Minister looks for Deputy Mayor to resign By Ayo Johnson Home Affairs Minister: Michael Fahy 'Mr Smith's comments were saddening, regrettable and just plain deplorable, and I feel confident in saying that his remarks are not representative of the majority of Bermudians.' – Michael Fahy Donal Smith, the Deputy Mayor of Hamilton, is not fit for public office, according to Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy. The Minister has written to Mayor Graeme Outerbridge to say that he should consider asking his deputy to resign from office as a result of comments he made on a television talk show. The Minister's letter to the Mayor, obtained by this newspaper, says: "It is shocking that in this day and age an elected official could attack homosexuals in this manner. "In addition, his commentary regarding international business is completely unacceptable, especially given the value of the industry to Bermuda's economy. "As Deputy Mayor, the reputational risks associated with these comments is potentially quite damaging to Bermuda. "Whilst I understand your position to be that his comments were made in a private capacity, given his public position it is expected that the Deputy Mayor should issue a public apology and that you, as Mayor should consider inviting him to resign from office. "I am happy to discuss this matter further on Monday, but would expect it to have been resolved prior to then. "Should you wish to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate to contact me directly." The development is another setback for relations between Government and the Corporation of Hamilton. Yesterday, the Home Affairs Minister sent a press release announcing Government's "grave concerns" about Mr Smith's derogatory remarks. The release was almost identical to the letter written directly to Mr Outerbridge, but did not contain the sentiment that the Mayor should consider inviting Mr Smith to resign. The official release said: "given his [Mr Smith's] public position it is expected that the Deputy Mayor should at least issue a public apology and (the Minister) has further requested that the Mayor consider other steps that could be taken in respect of Mr Smith. "Mr Smith's comments were saddening, regrettable and just plain deplorable, and I feel confident in saying that his remarks are not representative of the majority of Bermudians. "I hope that the Deputy Mayor takes a long hard look at what he said and reconsider his position." The release added that a meeting between the matter will be added to the agenda at a Minister and the City Coun- Continued on Page 2 By Gareth Finighan Hamilton Deputy Mayor Donal Smith is attending an overseas conference to promote the city as a destination to do business — after accusing International Business of destroying the social fabric of the Island. Mr Smith is heading up a four-man Corporation of Hamilton delegation attending the World Summit of Mayors in Cali, Colombia. The conference kicked off on Thursday with the aim of "generating economic, cultural, social, academic and spiritual integration" among community leaders who are either African or of African descent. The Bermuda contingent will be off Island for ten days to attend the eight www.royalgazette.com BERMUDA, Saturday, September 14, 2013 TODAY'S HIGH 84 A story to (Photo by Mark Tatem) Reunited: Adrienne Smatt with her cat Smidge who went missing last Saturday. Lost epileptic cat reunited with owner thanks to Facebook post By Cooper Stevenson A lost cat suffering from epileptic seizures may have used up another of her 'nine lives', but was safe and home yesterday thanks to the powers of social media. Four-year-old Smidge had been missing from her home in Mill's Creek, Pembroke, since Saturday afternoon and needs daily medication to treat her epilepsy. As Tropical Storm Gabrielle passed over the Island on Tuesday Smidge's owner, Adrienne Smatt, grew increasingly desperate to bring her beloved cat home unharmed. She took to Facebook to appeal for any information on where day conference, which is expected to cost the Corporation up to $100,000. Alderman Carlton Simmons and councillors Troy Symonds and George Scott are also attending along with an interpreter. Appearing as a guest on the 'Issues' current affairs television programme on Thursday night, Mr Smith blasted International Business, saying that it had contributed to the fragmentation of Bermuda's social fabric. "We went and flirted with some girl who looked good called IB and what we got was greener grass — but it was astroturf," he told presenter Richard Smith. The programme, in which the Deputy Mayor also attacked homosexuals and supporters of gay marriage, was Smidge may have wandered. "I was seriously worried about her without medication," said 25-year-old Ms Smatt. "The pills, from what I'm told, have a good few days of a half-life on them, but she was way past that point. Like a person who is epileptic, the meds keep her seizures at bay. When I got her back I noticed signs of her probably having had a seizure or more. It's upsetting, but the main thing is that she's home." The two are now reunited after a woman recognised Smidge from Ms Smatt's Facebook postings and promptly got in touch. Continued on Page 2 After critical words on International Business, Hamilton's Deputy Mayor goes overseas to promote city to businesses recorded before Mr Smith flew to South America to attend the summit. According to the summit's website, "ethnicity governance and economic development" are proposed as its central themes. "This key theme aims to enhance trade relations between cities and territories that benefit populations in Africa or of African descent," the website said. This key theme is intended to address the comparative and competitive advantages of the territories with a majority population from Africa or of African descent, in areas such as mining and energy development, trade, tourism and environment, among others. Deputy Mayor: Donal Smith Continued on Page 2 Govt eases requirements for work permit exemptions By Ayo Johnson Government has tabled legislation which would make it easier for non-Bermudian senior executives to be exempt from work permit requirements and to be granted permanent residency. But Government is also introducing legislation which would impose harsher penalties for work permit violations. The developments were yesterday welcomed by the Bermuda Employers Council. Amendments to the Incentives for Job Makers Act, tabled in Parliament, would reduce from 25 to 10 the number of Bermudian employees required in order for companies to qualify for the programme. And the fee for Permanent Residence Certificate applications will be drastically reduced — from $120,000 to $25,000. Government is proposing the changes as a result of feedback from the business community. An initiative of the former Progressive Labour Party Government, the Incentives for Job Makers Act 2011 waives work permit requirements for senior executives in exchange for a demonstrated commitment to employ and promote Bermudians. A maximum of five exemptions were allowed for any one company. But at a press conference yesterday, Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy said the programme had not been as successful as hoped. Besides reducing by more than half the number of Bermudian employees required for eligibility into the programme, the Minister is seeking parliamentary approval to remove a blanket maximum of five work permit exemptions for any one company. Guidelines will be revised to reflect a different formula. And the eligibility date of January 1, 2005 for PRC applicants would be changed to the "earliest date when the employer, responsible for their exemption, would have first met the conditions of the Economic Development Act", Minister Fahy said. "And finally, we are seeking to amend the Act to reduce the application fee for the PRC from $120,000 to $25,000, a fee deemed to be more palatable to the business community." The Minister said the measures will enhance efforts to stimulate the economy. "It is firmly believed that these amendments will help to further renew and revitalise our economy. "This Government represents change and as we move to rejuvenate the business sector with a view to stimulate economic growth and to secure jobs for Bermudians we are mindful of our regulatory responsibilities." Continued on Page 5
Page 2
Page 2 BEST calls for open spaces to be protected after Tucker's Point goes into receivership By Ceola Wilson Bermuda's environmental watchdog group has called on Government to ensure that "Bermuda's largest remaining open spaces" are not sold off, now that Tucker's Point has gone into receivership. On hearing the news, BEST chairman Stuart Hayward said he was "saddened" but not surprised. He raised a number of questions now that the resort has been placed into receivership which are now the subject of legal advice being sought by the Ministry of the Environment and Planning. With debts of more than $150 million the resort was placed in receivership. Ernst & Young, the receiver, will undertake financial restructuring as operations continue at the resort. Some 300 employees were assured that it will not be closing and that their jobs are safe. Bermuda Industrial Union representatives were scheduled to meet with staff yesterday. BIU president Chris Furbert declined to comment. Reacting to the news, Mr Hayward said: "Despite receiving an SDO allowing them to carve up precious open space into dozens of building lots, TPC has gone into receivership anyway." Moving forward he said: "The Government must now move to ensure that under receivership, TPC is not allowed to just sell off its assets and in the process squander acres of Bermuda's largest remaining open spaces. "We must avoid allowing TPC to deprive our Island of the amenity that Tucker's Point, and all Bermuda's tourist facilities, needs for its successful operation and recovery," he said. "We must avoid depriving all Bermudians of the environmental resources at Tucker's Point previously protected by conservation zonings." He noted the resort's financial difficulties were evident as far back as 2010. At that time, he recalled that BEST urged then Minister Walter Roban "to examine carefully TPC's financial liabilities and require them to show how the SDO they were being given would change their situation". "We declared then at the time that allowing TPC to sell off protected acreage for housing would a) not solve their financial management problems and b) only delay the restructuring necessary to get them out of the financial hole they had dug for themselves. "We derive little satisfaction in saying 'we told you so', but there it is," said Mr Hayward. "We argued at the time that granting TPC permission to act as a real estate agent (TPC has rebranded as Tucker's Point Real Estate) without conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as required for such a massive development scheme, and without fully exploring and exposing TPC's financial liabilities, was in effect a dereliction of the Government's duty and responsibility — those chickens have now come home to roost." In light of the latest developments he asked: "Did Tucker's Point Real Estate take over the hotel premises, fractional units and Ship's Hill town houses? "Does the SDO given to TPC in 2011 now become inoperative, given that its prime purpose (to stave off receivership) is no longer valid? "And what about TPC's current applications in or approved at Planning? Will they be put on hold?" The questions were forwarded to the Department of Communications and Information. An Environment Ministry spokesperson said: "Legal advice is being sought on the implications of the receivership on the Department of Planning and the Ministry of Environment and Planning." Tucker's Point is the third resort to be placed in receivership in three years joining Newstead Belmont Hills and Pink Beach Club which was recently sold. Owned by Bermuda Properties Ltd (BPL), the 88-room hotel, managed by Rosewood, opened in 2009 after a massive redevelopment of the Tucker's Town property. It lost more than $1 million each month from the start of 2009 through the end of August 2010. In 2011, the company fought a heated public battle for a special development order (SDO) to expand and build dozens more luxury multi-million-dollar homes on the property that it said would be sold to help repay its loan with HSBC Bermuda. That position is now under review. In receivership: The Tucker's Point resort Saturday, September 14, 2013 • POLITICS Minister Fahy looks for Deputy Mayor to resign Continued from Page 1 "We will carry out business meetings, entrepreneurial events, and commercial rapprochement between mayors and businessmen." The website also states that the conference plans to set up an Agreement of Intent to "establish a network of cities for trade and cultural exchange from the local level". And the summit will "initiate business between businessmen and women, entrepreneurs and regions deriving from the business meetings scheduled on the agenda of the summit". Representatives from Interamerican Development Bank (IDB) and the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), were listed as guest speakers at the meeting. Last night Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy condemned Mr Smith's comments, saying that they were potentially damaging to Bermuda's reputation as a place to do business. "His commentary regard- Continued from Page 1 cil on Monday. On the programme "Issues", Mr Smith launched a withering attack on homosexuality, referring to homosexuals as "freaks", while claiming that anyone who supports same sex marriage is "condemned". International business, he offered, "has attributed [sic] to the cause of our social fabric being sort of fragmented." The show was pre taped and aired on cable television on Thursday night. Mr Smith is at an international conference in South American on City Council business. Mr Outerbridge has distanced himself and the City Council from the remarks saying they were made in a private capacity. "The statements attributed in the daily newspaper to Deputy Mayor Donal Smith are his own opinions and thoughts and in no way reflect the thinking and sentiments of the Council of the City of Hamilton. "These comments were made during an interview on a religious television programme. We respect everyone's right to freedom of speech," the Mayor said. ( Photo by Glenn Tucker ) Deputy Mayor: Donal Smith City's Deputy Mayor goes to Columbia summit ing International Business is completely unacceptable, especially given the value of the industry to Bermuda's economy," Sen Fahy said. "As Deputy Mayor, the reputational risks associated with all these comments is potentially quite damaging to Bermuda." The Minister also said that Mr Smith's attack on homosexuality was "shocking". Economic Development Minister Grant Gibbons added that, as a public figure, Mr Smith's comments on International Business were "completely inappropriate and offbase". Hamilton Mayor Graeme Outerbridge yesterday moved to distance the Corporation from Mr Smith's remarks, saying that they "in no way reflect the thinking and sentiments of the Council of the City of Hamilton". But The Royal Gazette understands that Minister Fahy will be meeting with Mr Outerbridge on Monday, when Mr Scott's future will be discussed. (See separate story). Smidge the cat is home thanks to Facebook post Continued from Page 1 "I was sceptical as I had gotten a call earlier in the week from someone who had thought the same after hearing about it on the radio," said Ms Smatt. "But this woman had her with her collar and told me she was positive." Without Facebook Smidge might still be missing, admitted Ms Smatt. "I posted something on my personal page, I posted something on the Bermuda Lost and Found Pets page, my sister shared my post, my mother shared, a bunch of friends shared, and I imagine some of their friends shared too. "My next step would have been putting up posters which seems so archaic to me these days. I've never been heavily attached to social media although I definitely use it, and so I never thought of it as a legitimate way to find anything. I think this instance proves differently." It's not the first time Smidge has gone walkabout, said Ms Smatt, who began fostering the American shorthair while volunteering at a cat shelter in New York City. "There was a day when my roommate left the front door to the apartment open and Smidge got out. I couldn't find her anywhere in the building. I knocked on everyone's doors, I fashioned quick posters and stuck them on the main door, and finally, someone knocked on my door saying they found my cat and she was stuck in a hole under the stairs on the bottom floor." Ms Smatt said it was then she realised how much she had come to love her kitten and signed the adoption paperwork the very next day. "There is something about her, and in the four years I've had her I haven't been able to put my finger on it. It might be that she's small in stature, it may be that she defies the stigma of the black cat ... I'm not sure but I'll tell you what, the house sure did feel empty without her. "I may be biased but you can ask anyone who's met her, this cat connects with everyone. If we could harness her power to woo everyone, if we could siphon the happiness out of the room when she's in it and spread it around, I think we'd have a much happier world to live in. We might have some things to learn from this little cat." Open mic event for marijuana reform By Cooper Stevenson An open mic on marijuana reform will be held at 7pm this Sunday at the Docksider Pub and Restaurant on Front Street. Hosted by the Future Bermuda Alliance, a youth syndicate of the One Bermuda Alliance, the event will feature "a panel of local professionals" and residents are encouraged to come prepared with any questions, concerns, or suggestions regarding the Island's marijuana legislation. "The Future Bermuda Alliance would like to invite the people of Bermuda to attend an evening of conversation on the current legislation of marijuana," reads a press statement, which adds: "Did you know that in Bermuda penalties for non violent drug offenses [sic] are significantly higher then many violent crimes such as homicide and rape? The One Bermuda Alliance is here to make a change!" A similar event was held in December 2011, and was attended by 100-150 individuals, including Craig Cannonier, MP Bob Richards, OBA chairman Thad Hollis, and others. The Future Bermuda Alliance has yet to respond to this newspaper's requests for comment. All the day's breaking news from Bermuda's number one news team. www.royalgazette.com
Page 3
Saturday, September 14, 2013 Page 3 Pedestrian bridge proposed for old railway piers at Bailey's Bay Walk this way By Owain Johnston-Barnes Latori Anderson Police search for missing teenager Police are asking the public for help in finding a teenager, missing since Thursday. Latori Anderson, 16, was last seen on Reid Street. The light-brown skinned teen is approximately 5ft 3in tall and weighs around 115lbs, a police spokesman said. She was wearing a dark blue T-shirt and light blue leggings when last seen. Anyone with any information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Vulnerable Persons Unit on 247-1678 or the main police telephone number 295-0011. Final chance for public to meet SAGE Commission By Ayo Johnson The general public will have a final opportunity to meet with the Spending and Government Efficiency Commission next week. The SAGE Commission has announced that it will provide an update on its progress at three public meetings before they finalise their recommendations. "The meetings will feature presentations by Chairman Brian Duperreault and by the chairs of the Commission's committees: Dame Jennifer Smith (Streamline); Tom Conyers (Measurement & Metrics); Martha Dismont (Performance); John Burville/ Kim White (Pensions); and Nathan Kowalski (Economic Analysis). Committee members Craig Simmons/Sheila Nicoll/Donnie Francis will present on behalf of Privatisation & Outsourcing Chair, Henry Smith, who will be off the Island. "We'd like to outline some of the issues we've been grappling with as we consider our recommendations," said Mr Duperreault. "The SAGE Commission Act prohibits us from sharing any recommendations with the public before the final report is submitted to Finance Minister Bob Richards in mid October and then tabled in the House of Assembly when it reconvenes in November. "But we feel it would be helpful to discuss the components of the major challenges we face, explain our thought process based on our analysis to date, and get some feedback from the community. "This is a final chance for the public and private sector to have their voices heard, and we're hoping our meetings will be well attended. Bermuda is at a financial tipping point, and the more the community understands the depth of the challenge, the more we'll be able to support each other as tough decisions are made. "At the end of the day, what we present to Minister Richards should be a reflection of what the Bermuda community feels is the fairest way to create the government we need and can afford." The meetings will begin at 7pm and conclude at 9pm at St James Church Hall, Somerset, Penno's Wharf, St George's and Mount Saint Agnes Auditorium on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday respectively. The Parks Department is hoping to erect a pedestrian bridge over Bailey's Bay to restore a lost section of the railway trail. According to a recent planning application, concrete piers that were erected to support the railway will be restored to hold the proposed bridge. The piers were initially constructed in 1930 to support the primarily passenger railway system operated by the Bermuda Railroad Company. The railway, nicknamed the "Rattle and Shake", was decommissioned in 1948 and the rails were removed, but at Bailey's Bay nine piers with bridge plates were left in place. The application proposes a new bridge which would run over the existing piers, allowing pedestrians and bicyclists to follow the path of the former railway without detouring to North Shore Road. By linking two segments of the railway trial, the bridge would create an uninterrupted 3.2km stretch of off-road path with views of Pigeon Rocks and Bay Island. The application also states that the bridge would not impact mariners as no sailing vessels with high masts would As it was: The Bermuda Railway in its heyday. By linking two segments of the railway trial, the bridge would create an uninterrupted 3.2km stretch of off-road path with views of Pigeon Rocks and Bay Island. need to travel beneath it. An evaluation of the piers carried out in April found that the piers are in fair condition, but the base plates at the site are corroding. "If nothing is done to rehabilitate the piers, the damage caused by the corroding base plates will continue," the documents stated. "The estimated lifespan of the piers tops is five to seven years. It should be noted that a storm event may shorten that lifespan significantly." The report recommended replacing the damaged pier tops, but that following remediation work the piers would be strong enough to support a light weight bridge structure. Bermudian historian Dr Edward Harris said yesterday that he supports the project, saying anything that enhances the existing architecture would be "wonderful". (Photo by Mark Tatem) Pedestrian bridge planned: The old railway pylons at Bailey's Bay
Page 4
Page 4 Saturday, September 14, 2013 Opinion ' Keep your mouth shut, your eyes open' — Japanese proverb Established 1828; Incorporating The Colonist and Daily News (Established 1866). Member of the Newspaper Association of America. The Royal Gazette Ltd, incorporated in Bermuda, publishers and printers of The Royal Gazette, 2 Par-La-Ville Road, Hamilton HM-08. Mailing address: PO Box HM 1025, Hamilton HMDX, Bermuda. Telephone (441) 295-5881. Contact us Editorial Editorial Consultant Tim Hodgson, 278-0169 email@example.com Acting Deputy Editor Jonathan Kent, 278-0147 firstname.lastname@example.com News Editor Heather Wood, 278-0133 email@example.com Acting Business Editor Marina Mello, 278-0148 firstname.lastname@example.com Sports Editor Adrian Robson, 278-0140 firstname.lastname@example.com Picture Editor David Skinner, 278-0166 email@example.com News Reporters Owain Johnston-Barnes, 278-0158 firstname.lastname@example.com Sam Strangeways, 278-0155 sstrangeways@|royalgazette.com Ayo Johnson, 278-0160 firstname.lastname@example.com Ceola Wilson, 278-0157 email@example.com Jonathan Bell, 278-0153 email@example.com Gareth Finighan, 278-0156 firstname.lastname@example.com Business Reporter Rebecca Zuill, 278-0138 email@example.com Lifestyle reporters Jessie Moniz, 278-0150 firstname.lastname@example.com Nadia Arandjelovic, 278-0154 firstname.lastname@example.com Sports Reporters Stephen Wright, 278-0141 email@example.com Lawrence Trott, 278-0130 firstname.lastname@example.com Derek deChabert, 278-0143 firstname.lastname@example.com Colin Thompson, 278-0144 email@example.com Photographers Mark Tatem, 278-0161 email@example.com Glenn Tucker, 278-0165 email@example.com Akil Simmons, 278-0165 email@example.com Advertising Marketing and Sales Manager Marianne Suschak-Matvey, 278-0105 email@example.com Sales Team Flo Washington, 278-0112 firstname.lastname@example.com Carlene Spencer-Darrell, 278-0111 firstname.lastname@example.com Shawn-Nae Cann, 278-0117 firstname.lastname@example.com Eddie Nunn, 278-0113 email@example.com Classified Team Kanderee Gatton, 278-0-0128 firstname.lastname@example.com Marsha Dubois, 278-0127 firstname.lastname@example.com Write to us Letters sent in any form must be accompanied by the full name, address and the daytime telephone number of the sender. Letters without these details will not be accepted. These details will be omitted on request. Letters should be no longer than 350 words. The Royal Gazette reserves the right to edit letters that exceed this limit. Corrections Errors appearing in The Royal Gazette can be brought to the attention of the News Editor between Monday to Friday at 295-5881. The Royal Gazette is a member of the Media Council of Bermuda and abides by its Code of Practice. More information on the Media Council of Bermuda can be found on its website, mediacouncilofbermuda.org An article on Randolph and Rudolph Smith on yesterday's front page wrongly stated that Tracey Pitt, convicted of reckless driving, had not been charged with impaired driving. In fact, a jury acquitted Ms Pitt of impaired driving. The Royal Gazette apologises for the error. More than a military unit Opinion Al Seymour The Bermuda Regiment emerged from a period of social injustice, which saw young men of colour subjected to a system of segregation designed by those in authority at the time, who felt even in the military, skin colour made a difference, so hence we had the Bermuda Volunteer Rifle Corps, and the Bermuda Militia Artillery, known as the BMAs. I doubt if the enemy cared much about what colour the soldier was who was shooting at him. The same problem existed in the United States, a direct result of post slavery racial policies which lead to black soldiers struggling to be treated as equals, even while laying down their lives for their country. Despite proving themselves both on the ground and in the air, the nation had to undergo mountains of protests before finally coming to grips with reality, and outlawing all forms of racial discrimination including the armed forces, with new civil rights laws. In fact it was a bitter long struggle with countless lives lost before the nation eventually was able to elect a black President, something unheard of a few decades ago. Although in recent years, the walls of social injustice, have crumbled throughout most of the free world, the battle for true justice for all continues, with new threats from different parts of the globe. Most countries large and small, try to meet this challenge with an able defence force. With the walls of segregation ripped away, one man rose through the ranks of the US armed forces, to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He was General Colin Powell, still one of the most respected persons in America. However military service in democratic jurisdictions has also been a place of opportunity for learning various skills that can later be applied to civilian life. Many young men here have attributed success to having served in the Bermuda Regiment, with one telling me some years ago, that he was on a path to self destruction, which was turned around the moment he was exposed to what standards the army expected. In a sense, the Bermuda Regiment today represents the last frontier of discipline and order. When the Bermuda Regiment and their outstanding band are on parade, Bermudians display a sense of pride which can only make every man or woman on parade feel extra special in carrying out their duty of serving their homeland, Bermuda. This was so evident during the Bermuda Putin's Moment: Russia re-emerges as a player By Dan Perry Associated Press With a few days' worth of surprise diplomacy, Vladimir Putin has revived memories of an era many thought was long gone, when Washington and Moscow jostled for influence while others looked on. Whatever happens with its proposal to relieve Syria of chemical weapons, Russia, at least for now, has re-emerged as a central player in the Middle East. And for good measure, it is seen as a player that does not easily dump allies. That's meaningful in a region where America's sudden abandonment of ousted Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak two years ago has emerged as a seminal moment, focusing the minds of many an authoritarian on the sometimes ephemeral nature of US support. By contrast, Putin braved outrage by standing by his Syrian ally, claiming publicly there was insufficient evidence that Damascus used chemical weapons on August 21 — and even hinting he would somehow assist Bashar Assad in case of a military strike. The way events ultimately play out — in impressions as well as with facts on the ground — will also resonate with Iran, whose leaders surely are watching as the clock ticks toward another possible showdown, this one over their nuclear programme. "The message delivered in Syria will be carefully received in Iran," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been pressing the world to force Iran to abandon its programs before it achieves weaponisation — a goal Tehran denies. Complications may well bedevil a disarming of Syria's chemical weapons. With trust in short supply, verification will be an issue that could drag on, and some will doubt Syria has ever completely come clean. Security for inspectors may also become an issue, since the stockpile is believed to be scattered all around a country that is an unpredictable and ferocious war zone. But an impressive thing has happened already: the arresting, at least for the moment, of what had looked like a march toward a US military operation that domestic and world opinion did not want and might have skirted the edges of international law. Even the administration of President Barack Obama seemed uncomfortable with the Photo by Meredith Andrews Bermuda Regiment soldiers line up for formation in 2004. Columnist Al Seymour says the Bermuda Regiment "remains a beacon for any young person willing to experience responsibility and discipline, qualities so necessary in life". Connection event in Washington, DC some years ago, when a loud cheer erupted as the band in full military regalia, briskly strode onto the Mall grounds, with the Capitol building forming a magnificent backdrop in the distance. Every Bermudian present felt a rush of excitement and pride that no words could explain. As a special committee has been formed to solicit input from the community on ways to make the regiment more appealing to our young men and women, hopefully greater emphasis will be placed on making the military service an opening for learning various trade skills. There maybe a programme in place at the moment but there is always room for improvement. Many airline pilots in the United States, received their early training in the armed forces which was extremely costly in the private sector. In fact the army provided opportunities for numerous careers in the private sector. In addition to providing overall security during emergencies such as hurricanes and any type of disorder, the Bermuda Regiment has also played an active role in helping out when Islands to our south fell victim to the might of a hurricane. puzzling scenario in which officials argued an attack is essential but also explained it must not alter the course of Syria's civil war — betraying little desire to choose between a discredited dictator and a rebel movement increasingly dominated by jihadi elements who hate the West. That a face-saving climbdown might have been engineered by the Kremlin adds irony to what is at the very least a tactical victory in global strategic diplomacy. A Kremlin leader seen as a hard-hearted utilitarian, self-serving and occasionally brutal, may find new associations with peaceful resolutions and deft realpolitik. "Putin appeared to save Obama from a potential embarrassment domestically," said Leon Aron, the top Russia policy expert at the American Enterprise Institute, a think tank in Washington. "It's a huge international geostrategic win for Putin. ... Russia is on equal footing now as a power in the Middle East." Putin hosted a Group of 20 summit last week that tested US ties with Russia and saw tensions rising over foreign policy issues. Heading into the meeting, however, he offered an upbeat assessment of his relationship with Obama. "We work, we argue about some issues. We are human. Sometimes one of us gets vexed. But I would like to repeat once again that global mutual interests form a good basis for finding a joint solution to our problems," Putin said in an interview with The Associated Press. Russia's proposal on Syria would be a comeback for a country that was gradually eclipsed in the region by the US after the 1973 Middle East war, with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat expelling Soviet advisers, making peace with Israel, and embarking upon a strategic alliance with Washington. Russia's current interests in the region are both political and strategic. Moscow has long tried to position itself as a force for resolution The Bermuda Regiment is not just a military unit, it is an institution of Bermudian pride which should be preserved as a symbol of a new day of closer ties with all Bermudians. There will always be negative views about military service, but the positives outweigh those negatives by a long shot. The making of a soldier is different from the making a boy scout. Perhaps this is what inspired the popular American composer, Irving Berlin, to write the song, "This is the army mister Jones, we have no private telephones, you had your breakfast in bed before, but you won't have it there anymore." Of course in todays modern world, the breakfast part still stands, but the phone situation is a different story. The bottom line here is that army life is certainly not a picnic every day, but the Bermuda Regiment remains a beacon for any young person willing to experience responsibility and discipline, qualities so necessary in life. We can only hope our Regiment will continue to be a vital guidepost in keeping such values as discipline, respect, and responsibility alive for many years to come. AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster US President Barack Obama and Russia's President Vladimir Putin, go to shake hands during their bilateral meeting at the G20 Summit in Los Cabos, Mexico in July 2012. of the Israel-Palestine dispute, repeatedly and unsuccessfully calling for a Middle East peace conference. It also has strong interest in resolving the conflict over Iran's nuclear programme, which is complex: While Russia apparently believes Iran's possessing nuclear weapons would be destabilising for the region, it is also interested in doing more business in the nuclear sphere with Iran, and generally in the region. Georgy Mirsky, the top Middle East expert with the Institute for World Economy and International Relations, a government-funded think tank in Moscow, said in a blog posting that the chemical weapons initiative "can be called almost the only really smart and useful step of Russian diplomacy" on the Syria war. Some say Putin was merely seizing a chance offered by an ideal set of circumstances that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere: Russia is Assad's sole major ally except for Iran, giving Putin influence; and it has a naval base in Syria's port of Tartus, providing a possible storage site for chemical agents. "Syria is really the only country in the region where Russia can play this role," said Eugene Rogan, a fellow at the Middle East Centre at St. Antony's College at the University of Oxford. An unexpected outcome could be what Rogan called "a bit of detente between Putin and Obama" -- suggesting the US President, far from chafing at the interference, might be quietly grateful for a valuable assist.
Page 5
Saturday, September 14, 2013 Page 5 Texas campus street named in honour of Bermuda Olympian By Colin Thompson Former Olympian Sonya Smith got more than she bargained for when she ventured online to research her past athletic achievements as a student athlete at Abilene Christian University (ACU) in Texas. To her amazement the security officer discovered that a street on the campus of her alma mata had been named after her in honour of her remarkable athletic achievements in track and field during her time at the US college. "I was really surprised because I was looking for some other information and stumbled across that," she said. "I had to read it three times because I was so shocked about it and it's a great honour to be acknowledged by Abilene. I wasn't expecting that at all." The street, one of several named after past ACU athletes, is now known as Smith Drive. Ms Smith, who celebrates her 51st birthday next week, has many fond memories of her time at ACU where she achieved many milestones throwing the javelin, discus and shot putt. "When I was there it was a great honour because I was breaking records every week in the different track meets that we had," she recalled. "I was the first woman from there to win the Texas Relay, which is a very prestigious meet, two years in a row. Everybody was so excited while I was like 'what's the big deal?' "We also won the men's and women's national championships two years in a row, which was another great experience for me." Ms Smith is also the first female student athlete from ACU to compete in the Olympics (1984). "It was a great honour to represent Bermuda in the Olympics and I was disappointed not to represent Bermuda in the 1980 Games because of the boycott," she said. Ms Smith's athletic career began in humble settings at West End Primary before it really took flight after her budding talents were spotted by late national track and field coach Clive Longe. "I started out in track and field at West End Primary doing cricket ball throw with Diane Hunt, and then Clive Longe came along and had me train at the National Stadium," she explained. Ms Smith says her passion for travelling motivated her to put her best foot forward in the track and field arena. "I always wanted to qualify for overseas meets so I could go away," she added. "I ended up doing a lot of these meets abroad because I love to travel — that's the reason why I got stuck in track and field." To this day Ms Smith holds national records in the javelin (53.98 metres) and shot putt (13.59 metres) as well as multiple high records in either javelin, discus or shot putt. At the 1979 Carifta Games in Jamaica she set a Games' record in the javelin (53.98 metres) which has yet to be broken. With her career now a distant but glorious memory, Ms Smith is passing on her wealth of expertise to the current generation of throwers in her role as national throwing coach. One of her most promising throwers is Tiara DeRosa, who continues to come on in leaps and bounds. "Since I've been with her she's throwing ten feet further than what she was throwing before," Ms Smith said. "It would be great to see her break my records, and that's what we are working on now for next year." Honoured: Sonya Smith during her days as a top student athlete at Abilene Christian University. Govt eases requirements for work permit exemptions Continued from Page 1 The changes are being proposed in tandem with other legislative changes which would stiffen penalties for work permit violations. "Criminal penalties for offences under the Act are also set to increase from $5,000 to $10,000 for a first offence and from $10,000 to $25,000 for a second or subsequent offence," the Minister said. "A Civil Penalties regime incorporated into Immigration legislation is not uncommon and already practised in competitive jurisdictions. "In the Cayman Islands' immigration law any immigration officer at or above the rank of Deputy Chief Immigration Officer may impose a fine; and in the UK, the UKBA introduced a civil penalty system for employers in February 2008 — a requirement to pay money for an offence without the need of court conviction. "The public will recall that when the Government made a decision to eliminate term limits, we also made a commitment to strengthen our compliance regime and today we are taking the necessary steps to bring Bermuda's Immigration legislation in line with competitive jurisdictions." BEC president Keith Jensen said his organisation supported the bill. "The Bermuda Employers' Council welcomes some of the real incentives for the new job creators in Bermuda," he said. "The legislation in the past had set high barriers to provide sufficient interest. We hope that the amendments will generate interest and confidence in the future of the Island and encourage investors to have a second look at Bermuda. "Renewed interest and confidence in Bermuda will then generate investment leading to jobs, but it will take time." He added that the economic downturn had many businesses on the thin edge of the wedge. "A positive result from the incentives cannot come soon enough." On the increased work permits penalties, Mr Jensen said: "Work permit penalties has been an issue because employers want to have 'a level playing field' when it comes to staff. "Reports of non-Bermudians being hired under the table often without medical insurance and paying taxes, working well outside the scope of their permits and businesses submitting false information are detrimental to Bermudians and to employers who play by the rules. "The BEC supports the increased penalties and we have presented our views on the new powers of the Chief Immigration Officer. We look forward to working with the Stakeholders Group on the details of how the work permit violation processes will take place in the Ministry of Home Affairs. Non-Bermudian employees too will be impacted by the new penalties as will employers." Govt to lease Millennium ferry for a second year By Ceola Wilson Government intends to renew the lease of the ferry Millennium next year to shuttle cruise ship passengers back and forth from Dockyard to St George's. That was one of the disclosures made in the House by Tourism and Transport Minister Shawn Crockwell in an update on the 2013 Transportation Plan. In a Ministerial Statement, he said: "The introduction of the 4,000+ passenger capacity Norwegian Breakaway required us to 'up our game' in ensuring that sufficient transportation services are provided." The plan is designed to enhance Bermuda's public and private transportation services with "better coordination and organisation, specifically at the Ground Transportation Area at Dockyard and St George's". Admittedly, he said, there's always room for improvements. Updating the House on the Millennium, which was formerly a ferry in Rhode Island, US, Mr Crockwell said: "Since her commencement into service in May through the first week of September, some 94,758 passengers had been carried between Dockyard and St George's. "A total of 554 one way trips have so far been completed Monday through Friday, with no missed trips to date other than those cancelled due to Tropical Storm Gabrielle on September 10 and 11. "In total, approximately 1,200 passengers per day are being carried between Dockyard and St George's." The lease included "two owner supplied US crew and four locally sourced Bermudian crew, which has been a key component in the success of this service". The Millennium is due to return to the US next month and return again next year for the 2014 cruise ship season. "This action will ensure that we have sufficient capacity to potentially expand ferry services and retain the flexible ferry schedule we implemented this year." Responding to questions by Shadow Transport Minister Lawrence Scott, he said it was "prudent" to extend the lease for a second year as recommended in the original plan. Mr Scott wanted to know if money could be saved in the long term by investing in another ferry as opposed to a "wet lease" which is more expensive. The Minister said he was looking into it but noted that a new ferry would Transport: The Rhode Island fast ferry Millennium, is to be leased by Government for a second year. 'A total of 554 one way trips have so far been completed Monday through Friday, with no missed trips to date other than those cancelled due to Tropical Storm Gabrielle on September 10 and 11. In total, approximately 1,200 passengers per day are being carried between Dockyard and St George's.' cost $6 million. Once the season is over he said the Millennium's budget will be provided. Right now he said the number one priority "is to ensure that tourists will not be stranded at Dockyard". On Bermuda's bus and ferry service he noted that it's no secret it has its challenges. New buses are due to arrive in November to help upgrade the "ageing fleet". Mechanical and preventive maintenance issues resulted in a "high number of out of service buses". Faced with high demands for service during the 2013 tourist season, the focus was shifted to preventive maintenance to curb the problem to improve the "reliability of service". A "small contingent of retired employees" in the maintenance section were hired to support full-time employees in the section. "The impact of this decision has been significant and we have received a low level of complaints – Shawn Crockwell, Tourism Minister from our customers, and significantly improved the reliability of the bus service," said the Minister. "With the arrival of our new buses, scheduled for November, we should be able to continue to improve the reliability of service moving forward." Maintenance practices were also improved for the "ageing fleet" of ferries. With the last high-speed ferry delivered in 2006, he said reduced budget allocations contributed to mechanical problems resulted in out of service ferries as well. Countless cruise ship passengers left stranded in Dockyard and other areas last year presented challenges that made international news headlines. And on Thursday the Department of Public Transportation advised there would be some delays because some buses were experiencing mechanical issues due to inclement weather. The department extended apologies in advance for 'With the arrival of our new buses, scheduled for November, we should be able to continue to improve the reliability of service moving forward.' – Shawn Crockwell, Tourism Minister any inconvenience caused to the travelling public. The Central Bus Terminal ticket office in Hamilton is also closed until further notice "due to unpleasant fumes". Bus passes, tickets and tokens can be obtained from the General Post Office or the ferry terminal. On the new transportation layout for taxis and minibuses he said: "We still have some more work ahead of us to ensure that the private sector continues to grow into an important part of our annual Transportation Plans." Communications for visitors were also improved in time for the 2013 season. Clearly marked zones for each category of transportation were laid out at Dockyard and maps were distributed on board cruise ships servicing the Island, and videos on local transportation options are run in each cabin. "This has greatly improved the level of information provided for our visitors prior to arriving in Bermuda," Mr Crockwell said. "Special emphasis in the video was placed on taxi and minibus services, with less emphasis on the public bus service." Extending his appreciation to personnel for the "extensive amount of teamwork and dedication in making the summer season a success". He also acknowledged the recent achievement of Jorde Smith, who completed his apprenticeship training in Automotive Technology, with honours of distinction, at City College Brighton and Hove in the UK. Said Mr Crockwell: "Having well-trained and dedicated employees in the mechanic section is important in ensuring that our buses remain well maintained in the future." Commissiong blasts Govt over SAGE Commission By Jonathan Bell Government "outsourced" leadership and unpopular decision-making to the SAGE Commission, Opposition MPs charged, during a heated Motion to Adjourn in the House of Assembly last night. Progressive Labour Party MP Rolfe Commissiong blasted SAGE as an example of Government "immunising itself from having too close a hand on decisions they know will be unpalatable". He also branded its awards contest a "fiasco" — and called for the $12,500 prize to the winner, civil servant Magnus Henagulph, to be "returned so that it can be given to a more worthy person". The Pembroke South East MP said the prize ought to have been given to Ryan Robinson Perinchief, who won the under-18 category of the awards. Mr Commissiong took issue with Mr Henagulph's cash-saving suggestion that the police executive move out of the Veritas Place building — which described the lease as "questionable" because the building was "owned by [a] former PLP MP". "Come on," the Shadow Workforce Development Minister shot back. "The fact of the matter is [Arthur] Hodgson, at the time of that lease being signed, was with the company who runs Veritas Place, and had been out of Government at least five years." Mr Hodgson, a former Cabinet Minister, received permission to build at the Court Street site in 2007, as part of the developers group Abbott Holdings Limited. Mr Commissiong added: "We all know that throughout Hamilton there are many Government departments and ministries that have been rented, and have generated significant monies to the owners, some of whom had very close associations with the United Bermuda Party or sat in these same benches." And PLP MP Walter Roban said the SAGE Commission's credibility had been "severely damaged" by the "fiasco" surrounding the competition. Shadow Finance Minister David Burt revealed he had received a letter of apology from Mr Henagulph for an error in the civil servant's submission relating to a company part-owned by Mr Burt. He said that the error undermined the credibility of all recommendations and questioned why both Government and the Commission had not commented on the controversy surrounding the awards. "The fact that the award was given off of a submission that contained false information — I was very bothered by that, but the SAGE Commission and Government have been silent," he said. Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell defended Mr Henagulph, who works as a spokesman for the Department of Tourism. He said: "He is an outstanding public relations officer."
Page 6
Page 6 Overseas Ceasfire agreed to in Philippine standoff, Page 32 Saturday, September 14, 2013 US sees signs of progress AP Photo/Larry Downing US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, right, arrive for their press conference before their meeting to discuss the ongoing crisis in Syria, in Geneva, Switzerland. AP Photo/Aleppo Media Center, AMC Destruction: This citizen journalism image provided by Aleppo Media Centre AMC which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, shows damages due to heavy fighting between government forces and Free Syrian Army fighters in the old city of Aleppo, Syria. Obama says chemical weapons deal must be verifiable By Warren Strobel and Oliver Holmes GENEVA/BEIRUT (Reuters) — US-Russian talks on eliminating Syria's chemical weapons programme have reached a "pivotal point," a US official said, and both nations said they wanted to renew efforts to negotiate a peaceful end to the war in Syria. US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met in Geneva to discuss a Russian proposal under which Syria would sign international treaties banning chemical weapons and hand over its stocks of such weapons to the international community for destruction. The US official said the two sides were "coming to agreement" on the size of Syria's chemical weapons stockpiles and talks were continuing into today. US President Barack Obama, after a meeting in Washington with Kuwait's emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, reiterated that he will insist any deal on Syria's chemical weapons is "verifiable and enforceable". In Washington, senior Obama administration officials said the United States does not expect a UN Security Council resolution formalising the deal to include potential use of military force due to Russian opposition. Independently of the United Nations, Obama has threatened the use of force in response to an Aug. 21 chemical weapons attack in Syria that US officials say killed around 1,400 people. But as part of negotiations toward a UN resolution, the United States sees no benefit in trying to include the potential use of force. Russia holds a veto on the Security Council and has previously used it on three occasions when Western powers sought to condemn Assad over the war in Syria. President Vladimir Putin has said the proposal on chemical weapons will only succeed if the United States and its allies rule out the use of force. The US officials who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity said the UN resolution could include a range of consequences should Syria refuse to give up chemical weapons in a verifiable way. Those consequences could include increased sanctions. After meeting UN envoy Lakhdar Brahimi, Lavrov and Kerry said they hoped to meet in New York in about two weeks, around September 28 during the UN General Assembly, to see if they could schedule a new international peace conference on Syria. The talks between teams led by Kerry and Lavrov, which began on Thursday, are at a "pivotal point" and are continuing into Saturday, the US official told reporters. Continued on Page 31 AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais US President Barack Obama meets with the Kuwait Amir Sheik Sabah Al Ahmed Al Sabah in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. The visit by Sheik Sabah Al Ahmed Al Sabah comes as Obama and top aides are lobbying sceptical lawmakers to support using military force against Syria for a deadly chemical weapons attack the US says was carried out by Syrian President Bashar Assad.
Page 7
Saturday, September 14, 2013 Page 7 Lifestyle First Piano-Jazz Festival a rip roaring success, Page 8 Berlin's Olympic Stadium was built by Adolf Hitler's government and had the capacity to seat 100,000 spectators. Our first Olympiad The Bermuda flag (right) is shown next to the Japanese flag over a Berlin street during the 1936 Olympics in this photo from a 1937 edition of The National Geographic magazine. The 1936 Bermuda Olympic team are shown in front of a massive Bermuda flag in front of Berlin's grand Potsdamer Bahnhof train station shortly after arriving in the German capital. The flag is of interest as vexillologists will know that it is not the Bermuda standard but the Bermuda Governor's flag, identifiable by the Bermuda Crest in a circle, surrounded by a garland of oak leaves, in the centre of the United Kingdom's Union flag. While one wonders who might now posses that flag, a very small version attached to a frame (perhaps to fly on a car) is in the collections of the National Museum. Vexillologists have identified the same flag, or another one, as the crest has been placed vertically for hanging, which was published in a rare colour image in a 1937 edition of the National Geographic magazine. The Potsdamer Bahnhof was destroyed in the Second World War. It was identified from the photograph by my brother-in-law, Holger Steiner of Hamburg, to whom my thanks. Bermuda's 1936 Olympic team are shown at Government House. From left, Percy Belvin, John Young II, Edmund Cooper, organizer James Murray, manager Whitfield F (Chummy) Hayward, Forster Cooper and coach William Brooks. Heritage Matters Dr Edward Harris 'Bermuda's athletes who will journey to Berlin for the XIth Olympiad should have the wholehearted support of all true lovers of Bermuda' — Howard Trott, 1936 Last Sunday brought the news of the award of the 2020 Olympic Games to Tokyo, a few hundred miles from the bubbling disaster site of the tsunami-struck Fukushima generation plant ('there were scenes of jubilation in Japan…'). The billion-dollar losers were Madrid in Spain and Istanbul in Turkey, the latter would have been the first largely Muslim country to have hosted the sporting extravaganza. According to one source, 'hosting the 2020 games could yield positive economic effects of over $40.4 billion and create more that 150,000 jobs', such is the hype and hoopla that attends the gatherings of 'the youth of the world' in modern times. On the other side of the pole jump, a number of countries have found, to their regret, that the Games have been an economic disaster, with run-on bad effects that seem to possess the slow decay of the atomic half-life of plutonium. This is the second time that Japan has hosted the Summer Games, the first time being in 1964. An agreed Games in 1940 was cancelled, due to prevailing war conditions, which, after the attack on Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, culminated in the first atomic manmade disaster of Olympic proportions, that of the bombing of Hiroshima ("Little Boy" — with its 80,000 dead on day of drop) and Nagasaki ("Fat Man" — with its 90,000 deaths overall). Like Germany, Japan in the post-war period was galvanised, with much American help, so that both countries are now economic giants, while the 'special relationship' ally of England was left to pay off major debts to the United States. The modern Olympics started in 1896 and there have been 21 Winter and 27 Summer Games in 23 countries, with sites being designated by the International Olympic Committee some seven years in advance. The Summer Games are held every four years, and thus those held in Germany constituted the "11th Olympiad" and they were the first such contest attended by a Bermuda contingent, appropriately in the pool of swimming. Mr Clarence Hill later won the only Olympic prize ever for the island, being a Bronze Medal for boxing at the Summer Games at Montreal in 1976. With up and coming swimmers and yachting elites, perhaps we might have a chance for another medal or two in Japan. In 1934, an Olympic Association was composed at Bermuda, with a view to the Berlin Games two years later, when war was perhaps only on the minds of a few farseeing folk like the crusty Winston Churchill. Under the chairmanship of the Hon WJ Howard Trott MCP, athletes were sought to answer the message on Hitler's seven-foot, ten-ton Olympic Bell: "I call the Youth of the World" — well ... not all of them of course). The Bermuda Team, which would later include Leonard Spence of British Guiana, sailed to Europe in considerable style, aboard the SS Europa, presumably out of New York bound for Bremen. Built in the late 1920s, Europa made her maiden voyage on 19 March 1930 to New York, winning the Blue Riband for the fastest Atlantic crossing for a passenger liner from her sister ship, SS Bremen, both of the company, Norddeutsche Lloyd. In May 1945, the United States claimed her as a war prize and renamed as the USS Europa, the ship ferried troops home from Britain, being then transferred in 1946 as war reparations to the French. Under the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique, the vessel was renamed Liberté, but was scrapped after the launch of the magnificent SS France in 1960. The latter, by the by, was, until the building of the RMS Queen Mary 2 in 2004, the longest passenger liner ever (not to say the largest, as are the hideous tower blocks that ply present waters). Upon arrival in "The Fatherland", the allmale contingent took a train into the hinterland, arriving at the Potsdamer Bahnhof in Berlin and there duly photographed in front of the train station with an immense Bermuda flag, illustrated here. Continued on Page 11
Page 8
Page 8 Lifestyle Saturday, September 14, 2013 Ace pianists: Conrad Roach, Marvin Pitcher and Sheldon Fox II First Piano-Jazz Festival is a rip-roaring success Island notebook Ira Philip Max May with his Giants Steps Band and its new drummer Ronnie Lopes Bermuda's first International Church Piano-Jazz Festival was inaugurated last Sunday. It proved to be a stupendous cultural event, organised by a St Paul AME Church committee headed by Dale Butler and Edwina Smith. They combined the resources of Mr Butler's Atlantic Publishing House, Darlene Hartley's My Thyme Productions along with an augmented Giant Steps Band and four outstanding pianists, headed by none other than 90-year-old Mrs Elizabeth Gumbs. Extra seating was put in place for the sold-out programme under the distinguished patronage of Mrs Doris Corbin, MBE and Cecil Smith, MBE, both master teachers, church organists and choir directors. Mrs Corbin, incidentally, is well into her 102nd year. It was an extraordinary combination of musical dexterity with Mrs Gumbs displaying a teenaged agility that set a pace for such upand-coming challengers as Marvin Pitcher, Sheldon Fox II and even the multi-talented Conrad Roach. Roach hails from Trinidad, and has been playing Bermuda since 1997. He is a trumpeter, keyboardist and music director, who is currently Head of Humanities at the Bermuda Institute of Seventh-day Adventists. Youngest among the musicians Sunday was Sheldon Fox II. He graduated from Southern University with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education; played in the Tournament of Roses before returning home to teach music at Sandys Middle School. An undisputed veteran taking charge on Sunday was Marvin Pitcher. He matriculated through Berkeley Institute, Northern Caribbean University and Oakwood University where he graduated with his Bachelor's Degree in Music and Business. Marvin has played in England, the Netherlands, Jamaica, Canada and all over the United States, including at the White House. So much for the instrumentalists, including the Giant Steps Band, under Max Maybury, now more ready than ever for their highly touted trip to Havana, Cuba, representing Bermuda in an international festival in December. Perhaps the most sensational surprise on Sunday was presentation of two new groups. Taking a public bow for the first time were 'The Sweet Cherries of North Rock' led by Darlene Hartley with Roxann Eve, Kalrita Conyers and Marlene Seon. Marlene was a top-drawing talent 'back in the day,' and is Darlene's mother. Not to be outdone by the Sweet Cherries were 'The Six Ripe Loquats of Pond Hill'. They comprised Gerald Simons, who will never be forgotten for his dramatic renditions during the presentation earlier this year of Climbin Jacob's Ladder; also Maxwell Assing, Dale Butler, Denny Richardson, Glen Iris and Member of Parliament, Wayne Furbert. Both groups wrote their own opening songs that helped make Sunday's programme so exceptional. Each pianist mentioned earlier was asked to perform three songs, one of which was to be with the Giant Steps Band. Mrs Gumbs, wellknown for enlivening the worship services at the First Church of God, Hamilton, chose 'Blessed Quietness' with the band;' and, as solo, 'Have a Little Talk with Jesus,' and 'Come on Everybody Lets Praise the Lord'. Marvin Pitcher's selections were 'My God is Real', 'Just a Closer Walk with God', accompanied by the band; and 'Speak to My Heart'. Young Fox played 'What a Friend We have in Jesus', with the band; 'As the Deer' and 'How Great is Our God'. Each seemed to make the baby grand piano in the Distinguished patrons: Mrs Doris Corbin, 102 (above) and Cecil Smith (not seen). church 'talk back' and when it came to the turn of Conrad Roach he made the piano seem as if it would 'fly away' escaping along with the appreciative congregation, through his solos of 'Beans in Heaven', 'Spirit of David', and with the band, 'Amen in F'. The delightful two hours in the church were followed by appreciation in the church hall, where Sunday School picnic drinks were served along with homemade gingerbread. The success of this inaugural programme has already prompted the Committee to plan a Part Two, set for October 20, at 4pm at St Paul featuring The Giant Steps Band, Sweet Cherries and Ripe Loquats, Jonathon Tankard, Brian Herbert, Mrs Elizabeth Gumbs and from Alabama, Dr Wayne Bucknor, Associate Professor of Music at Oakwood University. Those serving on the St Paul's Organising Committee are Mr Dale Butler, chairperson; Mrs Edwena Smith, vice-chairperson; Miss Lynell Furbert; Mr Charles Michael Trott; Mrs Carlene Tucker; Mrs Marion Tucker and Mrs Lois Weeks. Uplifting song: Darlene and her Sweet Cherries and Mrs Gumbs, aged 90 Looking and sounding the part: Dale Butler and his fashionable Loquats
Page 9
Saturday, September 14, 2013 Lifestyle Page 9 On The Tube Robin Williams: Starring in the new television series "The Crazy Ones" 1980s stars in a sitcom showdown By Hank Stuever Michael J Fox and Robin Williams will return to television starring in different shows on the same night (September 26) on a medium that has evolved remarkably from the one they left years before. If nothing at all had changed technologically and culturally since the days of Mork from Ork and Alex P Keaton, the debuts of their competing new comedies - "The Crazy Ones" and "The Michael J Fox Show" - would be billed as a spectacular showdown between '80s heavies, a modern-day Battle of the Network Stars. Viewers would have to choose which one to watch. There'd be a cartoon of them arm-wrestling on the cover of TV Guide. Now they'll both be lucky if anyone sends out a few half-hearted tweets during the broadcast or clicks on clips of either show online the next day. Buzz is the only expression of TV adoration anymore. So what exactly are Williams and Fox each looking for, besides a hit? They're looking for comfort - a mix of job security and creative satisfaction, perhaps. And what are we looking for when we tune in to shows starring actors whose long orbits have returned them to TV? We seek anything remotely funny or assured of itself; anything that lets us know that TV still works the way it used to when put in the hands of old pros. Familiarity is a powerful lure. What neither man could fully prepare for is the insecure nature of network comedy now - how meta is too meta? How much sarcasm kills a joke? CBS's "The Crazy Ones," created by David E Kelley ("Ally McBeal," "Boston Legal"), is far more successful at a number of these goals, with a slicker launch and a better premise. It stars the 62-yearold Williams as successful adman Simon Roberts, who has turned over the business operation of his big Chicago-based agency to his daughter, Sydney (Sarah Michelle Gellar). Williams of course brings the manic, free-associative ramble upon which he built his career. In Simon's ongoing monologue about himself, we catch light-speed references to divorces and rehab stints. His attention-deficit problem and personal demons don't help the trains run on time, but, as the agency stands to lose its big account with Mc- Donald's, Simon is still the one who can pop in with a brilliant, off-the-cuff idea, buying the agency another couple of days with the impossible promise of luring pop star Kelly Clarkson (who is featured in an energetic guest cameo in the pilot episode) to sing an updated version of the "You Deserve a Break Today" jingle. Not lovin' it? It's interesting to note that both "The Crazy Ones" and "The Michael J Fox Show" lean far too heavily on promotional tie-ins to get their stories started. The creators of "The Crazy Ones" swear up and down that their show does not have a deal with McDonald's (or any other brand to be seen in future episodes). Their sole aim in choosing McDonald's Michael J Fox was verisimilitude; the energy spent conjuring a McDonald's-like analogue to play the role of Simon's top client should instead be spent writing scenes and characters, Kelley and his writers explained to critics earlier this summer. Viewers are therefore supposed to believe that the Mc- Donald's logo and its old jingles are as free as the air we breathe - be sure to pop them into your next creative endeavor, gratis. The rationale is fine, but the net effect in the first episode of "The Crazy Ones" is that it feels like a protracted McDonald's ad. ("Sponsored content", in today's parlance, even if it isn't.) Clarkson declines when Simon and his team beg her to sing the McDonald's ad, but she's intrigued by an adlibbed idea offered by Simon and his charming associate, Zach, played by James Wolk; the two wind up improvising a sexier ad pitch that turns ketchup packets into syncopated pornography. Wolk, as you may have noticed, is making a slow but worthy ascent to Jimmy Stewart-ville, where his twinkly eyes and an insouciant grin mask an unpredictable edge. You know him as the mysterious Bob Benson from the recent "Mad Men" season; or you know him as various boyfriends on cancelled sitcoms or the number-one son on USA's "Political Animals"; or you know him from "Lone Star", the 2010 Fox drama that turned out to be the ratings equivalent of a snuff film. Here, Wolk provides just the sort of casting ingenuity "The Crazy Ones" needs, especially as a counterbalance to Williams, who, it goes without saying, will motormouth his way through any scene he can. ("Don't encourage him," Gellar's character says at one point.) As for Gellar, I completely get that she's permanently beloved for her work in the niche hit "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and is therefore entitled to flail about in other shows until the end of time. But watching her play Williams's dutiful and comedy-challenged daughter is a dreary primer in the pitfalls of big-name casting. Even in the tender scenes, she and Williams seem to be communicating through a glass wall that separates two different shows. She's politely tapping on it, but can't get in. Overall, "The Crazy Ones" shows sure signs of achieving what it's attempting to be - a playful, upscale, single-camera departure from the usual sitcom. You can tell that it wants to be funny, which sounds like a strange compliment, until you watch enough new comedies in which detachment is the goal.
Page 10
Page 10 Lifestyle Saturday, September 14, 2013 On The Tube AP Photo/PBS- ITV, Bernard Walsh Michael Kitchen and Honeysuckle Weeks are shown from the series "Foyle's War" premiering its new season on "Masterpiece Mystery!" on PBS tomorrow, September 22 and 29. 'Foyle's War' returns with crimes of espionage By Lynn Elber LOS ANGELES (AP) — The premise: A small-town policeman goes big time with cloakand-dagger intrigue, showing the spymasters how it should be done. The change of pace for retired Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle of Hastings, England, comes in Sunday's return of "Foyle's War," which moves the PBS "Masterpiece Mystery!" series from the stark horrors of Second World War into the shadows of the Cold War. For Foyle addicts — and there are millions of them in the US and worldwide — it's a chance to see their hero on a different stage. For those yet to discover the smartly written and produced series starring the remarkable Michael Kitchen, it's a good time to join in. Shifting Foyle to security agency MI5 in London (with Dublin playing stand-in), lets newcomers to the drama avoid the fog of confusion. There's also easy accessibility: The three new episodes can be streamed on digital channel Acorn TV the day after their PBS debut, and Acorn has the library of past seasons on home video and streaming. Longtime fans may miss cast members who weren't able to come along this season, including Anthony Howell as Detective Milner and Julian Ovenden as Foyle's war-hero son. But consolation comes with the return of Honeysuckle Weeks as Foyle's loyal sidekick, Samantha, married to a political hopeful (Daniel Weyman), and Ellie Haddington as the chillingly efficient MI5 bureaucrat Miss Pierce. Viewer devotion and an unusual production deal with Acorn made the program's seventh-season return possible. First, however, series creator Anthony Horowitz had to decide there could be life for Foyle after the ceasefire. "When I got to the end of the war, 1945, I thought that was the end of that," said Horowitz, a novelist as well as screenwriter. But urging from fans and executive producer Jill Green, who also happens to be Horowitz's wife, did the trick. "It was a fantastic thing, in the end. It reanimated us, inspired us, gave us a new language, characters and new things to play with," Horowitz said. "And I also was delighted to have left policemen and police stations and bodies in the libraries behind me." He uttered that last sentence lightly, but noted later that his 15 years working on the series comes to about three times the length of the Second World War. The task hasn't been easy: The show builds its well-plotted crimes on a bedrock of history and careful period set and costume design. It all showcases Kitchen's magic in portraying the steadfastly moral, humane Foyle. What the actor can convey with a coolly unblinking gaze or twitch of the lip requires scenery chewing from lesser mortals. He's "sheer class", said Weeks, herself a charmer as earnest Sam. "He's so subtle, and somehow he manages to bring layer upon layer of experience and truth and subtext in the simplest of gestures." ANNIVERSARY CLUB Congratulations to: Denise Outerbridge-Dowling of Rockaway, Southampton whose birthday is tomorrow. Craig and LaQuita Nesbitt of Marsh Vally, Pembroke whose 23rd wedding anniversary is tomorrow. To have a birthday or anniversary listed in The Anniversary Club please contact Samantha Hill at 278-0122 or email@example.com.
Please wait


text:
Big Ten Media Day - Fran McCaffery
Oct. 25, 2012
THE MODERATOR: Joining us now is Fran McCaffery, he welcomes back 10 letter winners and three starters from last year's team.
The challenge anytime you're coaching in this league is: are you going to be good enough? Because there are so many good teams, and I think that's the fun of it. That, as I said, is the challenge, to see how we progress, how we develop, especially early with our young players.
Q. Fran, yours is a team that people keep mentioning as a dark horse, somebody that isn't picked high, they could do real well. Do you embrace that idea? Do you think it's a good place to be? Seems like you're confident about that.
I recognize just how good this league is. As good as it's been since I've been in it this short time, I think it's even better now in terms of quality teams one through 12. The difficulty that we all experience winning on the road is huge, but we have some pieces. We can score. We have multiple options I can do to in terms of personnel, I can go big, I can go small, I think we can pressure more because we have more depth.
The key is defensively. We didn't defend last year, we didn't defend consistently. We defended some nights, but we gave up high numbers from three, from the field, and the players in this league are just too good to play the way we played last year defensively. Part of that was we played fast. I thought in terms of turnovers and assists, I felt we were pretty good. We have to get better there, turnovers have to improve, despite the fact that we're playing fast and we have to play better defense and I think we will be a better rebounding team, which should limit the other teams shooting percentages a little bit. If you put it all together, obviously we hope to be substantially improved.
Q. Coach, how does having the size of Woodbury affect what you guys are going to be able to do?
You can run your offense through him, even if he's not getting 25, his best attribute offensively is passing. He will throw it in there, skip it to the weak side, we have a number of three point shooters, but he is a presence physically. He closes up the lane, holds his position, bangs people.
When you're going up against the really good post guys in the league like Zeller, it gives him somebody who can match him physically in terms of size. Last year we had a tremendous player in Zach McCabe, and though he's 6 7, it's a difficult task for him so it presents more promise for the teams that are preparing for us and gives us a weapon that we didn't have before.
Q. Following up on that, what are the most important things for a freshman to not just be able to play in this league but to contribute to winning?
When you have a team consisting of players like that, then you have a chance to certainly be better and ultimately be very good.
Q. Fran, establishing an offensive tempo on the road in this league is maybe one of the more difficult challenges, do you think that the freshmen like Mike Gesell and Pat Ingram can do that?
So I think from that standpoint it gives us the versatility to go with him if I need to but I have two guys that not only push it and make the decisions but they both can score and they both defend. With all due respect to Cartwright, last year what was a great leader, a great offensive player, but he doesn't defend and that was his struggle and it affected our team. Part of it was because I was playing him a thousand minutes and these guys can get rest and put better pressure on the basketball.
THE MODERATOR: Thanks, Coach.
FastScripts by ASAP Sports
Schools Illinois Indiana Iowa Maryland Michigan Michigan State Minnesota Nebraska Northwestern Ohio State Penn State Purdue Rutgers Wisconsin
Men's Sports Baseball Basketball Cross Country Football Golf Gymnastics Hockey Indoor Track & Field Lacrosse Soccer Swimming & Diving Tennis Outdoor Track & Field Wrestling
Women's Sports Basketball Cross Country Field Hockey Golf Gymnastics Indoor Track & Field Lacrosse Rowing Soccer Softball Swimming & Diving Tennis Outdoor Track & Field Volleyball

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Let us know when your receive great advice so we can thank our lawyers and point others with similar questions in the right direction.Got it!
The officer and prosecution agree but the judge wants law to prove that I can go forward under a common law theory of non adjudication
It sounds to me as if you have an attorney. If that's the case, you need to have a detailed conversation with them about this and all of the issues in your case. Good luck.
Jasen NielsenAsk a similar question
You need immediate legal counsel! If the judge won't accept the deal, you will be prosecuted and will lose without a lawyer.Ask a similar question
You may be able to keep out the evidence, but that will depend on what evidence you have to attack the tests. You might want to get that evidence excluded first and then see if you can file a motion to dismiss. You should have an attorney in this case. Are you self-represented?Ask a similar question
I agree talk with your attorney as they are in best position to answer that question. Good luck.Ask a similar question
If you have counsel PLEASE discuss it with them. If you do not, get an attorney NOW. Your attorney, if you have one, can point to the case law on remand versus reduction that is statutorily eliminated
The law office of Anders Ferrington 601-316-8428 practices state wide. In no way am I offering you legal advice, and in no way has my comment created an attorney-client relationship. You are not to rely upon my note above in any way, but instead need to sit down with counsel and share all relevant facts before receiving fully-informed legal advice.Ask a similar question
the answer depends on wheather you can keep the intoxilizer results our (or lowered within the range of error).
Here is the Miss Code you need to look at:
SEC. 63-11-30(3)(g)
(g) The court shall have the discretion to rule that a first offense of this subsection by a person under the age of twenty-one (21) years shall be nonadjudicated. Such person shall be eligible for nonadjudication only once. The Department of Public Safety shall maintain a confidential registry of all cases which are nonadjudicated as provided in this paragraph. A judge who rules that a case is nonadjudicated shall forward such ruling to the Department of Public Safety. Judges and prosecutors involved in implied consent violations shall have access to the confidential registry for the purpose of determining nonadjudication eligibility. A record of a person who has been nonadjudicated shall be maintained for five (5) years or until such person reaches the age of twenty-one (21) years. Any person whose confidential record has been disclosed in violation of this paragraph shall have a civil cause of action against the person and/or agency responsible for such disclosure.
However, SEC. 63-11-30(3)(a) prvided as follows:
This subsection shall be known and may be cited as Zero Tolerance for Minors. The provisions of this subsection shall apply only when a person under the age of twenty-one (21) years has a blood alcohol concentration two one-hundredths percent (.02%) or more, but lower than eight one-hundredths percent (.08%). If such person's blood alcohol concentration is eight one-hundredths percent (.08%) or more, the provisions of subsection (2) shall apply.
^^ the last sentense is going to put your charges back under Miss Code SEC. 63-11-30(2) because you are over the .08 upper limit, and under section 2 - nonadjudication is not an option.
So in short, if you can keep the intoxilizer results out (or lowered) then yes the Judge can nonadjudicate, but you are doing to need a good DUI lawyer to help you on this.
My firm handles DUI's statewide, and this comes up often.
Attorney Stacy E. Pepper is licensed in all State and Federal Courts in Mississippi. He is a founding Partner in the law firm of Pepper & Odom, P.C. Nothing posted here constitutes any attorney client relationship and is meant for educational purposes only. Office hours are 8:00 a.m till 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Phone: 601-914-9219 Facsimile: 888-456-2160 www.pepperodom.comAsk a similar question
Sign up to receive a 3-part series of useful information and legal advice about DUIs.
Post a free question on our public forum.Ask a Question
- or -
Search for lawyers by reviews and ratings.Find a Lawyer


text:
Rock 'n Babies Upscale Resale, Green Baby Elephant and Sun Sprout will be host to the Tucson site of an international cloth diaper changing event taking place on Saturday, April 20, two days before Earth Day. In its third year with over 182 sites in 11 countries, The Great Cloth Diaper Change event will attempt to break last year's Guinness World Record™ of 8,251 cloth diapers changed around the world at one time.
"Each year billions of disposable diapers enter landfills where it takes hundreds of years for them to decompose, if ever," says Heather McNamara, Executive Director of the Real Diaper Association. "Building off the success of last year's event with 189 qualifying locations in 11 countries, we hope to show the entire world that cloth diapers are a real option for today's modern families, particularly catching the eye of expecting and new parents who may be seeking more planet-friendly and affordable alternatives to disposable diapers."
To date, there are more than 20 mom and baby pairs ready to participate in the Tucson event, which equates to approximately 40 people anticipated to be in attendance. The event will take place at Rock'n Babies Upscale Resale at 2840 W. Ina Road, #156, Tucson, AZ 85741 at 10:30 a.m. In addition to the Great Cloth Diaper Change world-recording setting activity, there will also be a raffle, goody bags for the first 25 registered participants, cloth diaper demonstrations, and more.
For more information or to participate in The Great Cloth Diaper Change in Tucson, please contact Tonya at 591-0689 or visit http://www.greenbabyelephant.com/gcdctucson2013. The official website is www.GreatClothDiaperChange.com, and you can click on the map to find information about your local event. The Great Cloth Diaper Change can also be followed on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/GreatClothDiaperChange, http://www.facebook.com/thegreatclothdiaperchangetucson and on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/ClothRecord.
About The Great Cloth Diaper Change: In its third year, The Great Cloth Diaper Change is an international initiative organized with the help of the nonprofit Real Diaper Association designed to show the world that cloth diapers are a real option for today's families. The brainchild of Judy Aagard of Tiny Tots in California, Aagard says she came up with the idea in an effort to host a family event celebrating Earth Day. The Great Cloth Diaper Change has morphed into an exciting Guinness World Record™ breaking event, and in 2012, more than 8,251 babies were changed at one time. For more information visit www.GreatClothDiaperChange.com.


text:
Need a Thyroid Test in Humble, TX? Simply order online 24/7 and get a fast, affordable Thyroid Test at a lab near you (Find More Locations):
What is a Thyroid Test?
A Thyroid Test consists of lab tests to check the thyroid. People in Humble, TX get a Thyroid Test for general screening or at the request of a medical provider.
How much does a Thyroid Test cost?
Our Thyroid Test prices include the doctor's order that you need to get tested in Humble, TX, all lab fees and taxes, and a pdf copy of your results. For current prices, please CLICK HERE.
What does a Thyroid Test lab report look like?
For a popular Thyroid Test sample report, please CLICK HERE.
We are delighted to offer the Thyroid Test in Humble, TX.
Thyroid Test in other cities near Humble, TX:Alief | Barker | Baytown | Bellaire | Cypress | Houston | Hufsmith | Hunters Creek Village | Katy | La Porte | North Houston | Pasadena | Spring | West University Place


text:
Ray Vincent Photography Photographer
Delphine MarieModel Female Newport, Rhode Island, US
Boston, Massachusetts, US
New York, New York, US
My MM URL: http://www.modelmayhem.com/delphinemarie
Mayhem # 3133348
About Me
My last profile was hacked and restricted so you may recognize my portfolio from my previous membership.
Almost 28, I am currently in college seeking a degree in textile marketing at the University of Rhode Island. I have always been obsessed with taking pictures while out with my girlfriends so I have really enjoyed working with different photographers introduced to me through this site to take more refined shots. I have no professional experience, but I would ideally like to expand my portfolio and earn monetary compensation. I am petite. Please do not call me little. I am not a child. If you like my look, I encourage you to contact me. I am very available and excited to travel and meet new people in the industry.
All About Dani (general fun facts)(know your subject):
~*~OBSESSED with eBay.. I buy and sell, but mostly buy. 85% of my wardrobe is from eBay.
~*~I have 3 brothers and I'm the only girl. I am also the only child living with parents
~*~I quite frequently say the wrong thing
~*~I <3 donuts
~*~I have a yellow beetle convertible with the license plate BLONDE
~*~I love logarithms
~*~If I could meet anyone, I choose Larry Kudlow
~*~I prefer my hair up, as opposed to down
~*~CSI:Miami and Criminal Minds are my favorite programs
...more to come
Ground Rules: No alcohol or illegal substances of any kind at a shoot without prior authorization. I will not perform sexual acts so don't ask.
Lost some weight. Down to A cup, bummer.
Have you worked with Delphine Marie? Add Credits for Delphine Marie! >>
Ray Vincent Photography Photographer
JohnRobert Model
ARTLAND PHOTOS Photographer
overexpose... Photographer
Rick Photography Photographer
Mr Grey Photography Photographer
Loading Content


text:
The results can quickly be converted to a Solomonic judgment as to whether someone is burnt.
Could the beloved monarchy broker some kind of Solomonic solution?
The Supreme Court's decision in Arizona v. United States is not getting a lot of love, but it seems to me Solomonic.
Its symbols and its legends are derived from the Solomonic temple, and from the people even anterior to that.
Death, in the Solomonic proverbs, 81; in the Zoroastrian religion, 82.
The tradition forms a part of the Solomonic lore, and is frequently told in esoteric works.
"The time to go sword fishin' is when sword fish are due," he insisted with Solomonic wisdom.
All gold from the land of Gold, the unearthed Ophir of the Solomonic time.
No doubt it is oftenest used for the Solomonic temple, but it does not necessarily refer to it.
Herein are contained enough aphorisms and epigrams to make up a new book of Solomonic wisdom.


text:
|You are here: Rediff Home » India » Get Ahead » Careers » Work place
| Discuss this Article | Email this Article | Print this Article
Travelling abroad for work? Quick tips
|Related Articles
6 'soft' skills you need for success
There are no foreign lands. It is only the traveller who is foreign." It is an apt statement by Robert Louis Stevenson. If you are flying abroad -- on work -- for the first time, relax. Yes, you are moving out of your motherland, but the other country has people just like you.
In Scared to interact with foreign clients? we tipped you off on how to communicate with your foreign counterparts and clients.
Next, we make a checklist of what you must know before making a business trip. A little homework and clear communication can lead to a fruitful journey.
Read about the culture and business etiquette
It is very important that you know about the country you are going to. We must realize that the business, as well as social culture, is very different as we move from the West to the East. Therefore, do read up about these aspects online or through books such as the Lonely Planet Guides. Any faux pas might create a bad impression, if you are ignorant about commonly followed norms. For example, if you are on business in China, it is considered rude to come to the point directly like you would do in the West, before making small talk.
The rules change all the time. A recently foiled terror attack in London, for instance, has led to a temporary ban on all hand baggage. The best thing to do is call your flight operator in advance to find out what you are allowed to carry. Some countries do not allow perishable food items on flights. Check with respective consulates in India before you fly. It is best to avoid an unpleasant entry into a new land. However, if you plan to cook, you can carry certain food items.
Dharti Avchar, a corporate trainer, advises, "Sugar and salt in America do not taste like the sugar and salt here. They are somehow bland, so it is better to carry packets from India. Also, if you intend to cook regularly, carry Indian masalas. You do get spices in Indian stores abroad, but they are rather expensive and you may have to buy them in bulk. For most of us who travel abroad for work, the idea is to save as much money as possible. You can carry dried pulses that can be grown abroad and had as breakfast or cooked with vegetables."
Before you go, contact colleagues or business associates in the country you are going to and try to memorize common terms such as 'Thank you', 'Sorry', 'Hello', 'How do I get to xyz place?' etc. This definitely creates a good impression on the locals and they will be willing to help. Also, if possible, carry a translation dictionary.
Gopal N, who works at the global operations helpdesk for a leading American insurance company, says, "If somebody harasses you, don't fight back or argue. Simply complain to the nearest authorities. Never carry any sharp objects or weapons. Also, always follow traffic rules, although you might take some time to get familiar with them. You will be in trouble if you are caught breaking rules in a foreign land."
If you intend to drive, get an international driving license before you leave India. Some countries do recognize Indian licenses for a short period but, if you are staying for long, an international license in essential.
From the security and legal perspective, it is important to register with your country's consulate in the place you are visiting. Do this as soon as possible after you land. The consulate may also help you contact other Indians if need be.
"Beware of pick pockets. Don't carry huge amounts of cash, but keep a decent amount every time you leave your house or hotel. Preferably, use cards or traveller's cheques," suggests Gopal. If you intend to use your Indian credit or debit card, check the charges before you leave India. You may be in for a shock if you realize later that you have to cough up an astronomical amount as surcharges.
"People used to bathing with a bucket and mug may be uncomfortable if only tubs and showers are available. So, carry a mug if you can't do without it. Also, for cooking, you may find it difficult to buy a rolling pin (belan) for making chapattis," says Avchar.
If you are travelling for work, understand the amenities available from your HR department or from colleagues abroad. If you are a student, contact seniors or alumni at the university to find out about the facilities.
"Always have help line numbers along with emergency contact details with you," warns Gopal. This comes in handy if you are stuck and need someone to rescue you. As a foreigner, the locals may be wary of helping a stranger.
You will be more comfortable with a new place if you know it well. Read local newspapers, look up the Internet for news about that country and talk to colleagues or friends for information. It is better to ask than to assume. At the same time, avoid talking about sensitive issues such as religion or politics with acquaintances.
It is necessary to carry a photo-identity, such as a passport or driving license, whenever you are venturing out in a foreign country. There are several times when you might be asked to furnish it.
The writer Clifton Fadiman sounded rather pessimistic when he said, "When you travel, remember that a foreign country is not designed to make you comfortable. It is designed to make its own people comfortable."
There is no reason why you can't make yourself comfortable though, provided you know the right things at the right time.
Have you travelled abroad on work? Share your experiences, suggestions and tips.
|Email this Article Print this Article
|© 2006 Rediff.com India Limited. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer | Feedback


text:
|Document Type:
|N. Faye Angel
|Email address:
|Collaborative Study and Paired Test Taking in Collegiate Level Linear Programming Instruction
|Doctor of Philosophy
|Committee Chair:
|Dr. B. June Schmidt
|Chair's email:
|Committee Members:
|Dr. James Hoerner
|Dr. Susan Magliaro
|Dr. Kusum Singh
|Dr. Daisy Stewart
|collaboration, paired test taking, group decision making
|Date of defense:
|September 16, 1998
|Release the entire work for Virginia Tech access only.
After one year release worldwide only with written permission of the student and the advisory committee chair.
The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of collaborative learning strategies on formulating solutions to linear programming word problems that were designed to incorporate problem-solving skills. Forty-six students majoring in business at a small southwest college in Virginia participated in the study. After an instruction session, a study period, and a question and answer discussion, participants completed the test instrument based upon random assignment to three treatment groups. These included individual study with individual test taking (control), paired study with individual test taking, and paired study with paired test taking. All participants returned in 17 days to complete a posttest individually having received no further instruction in linear programming theory. The following null hypothesis was examined: No differences in treatment means measuring problem-solving abilities would be found based on students' test and posttest scores using two treatment groups of collaborative study, with collaborative or individual test taking, and a control group of individual study with individual test taking. After satisfying the assumptions of no difference in ability in the treatment groups, establishing significant influence of ability on test score and
List of Attached Files
|At the author's request, all materials (PDF files, images, etc.) associated with this ETD are accessible from the Virginia Tech network only.