Hi Folks
This is the ARCHIVE of the Open Discussion forum from February 21, 2006 to early August 17 2009.
NO FURTHER COMMENTS ARE ALLOWED HERE…
… as the page has over 1000 comments dating back three and a half years and takes forever to load under the new throttling policies of LIME.
We’re leaving it up for reference as there are some excellent conversations and articles submitted by BFP readers over the years. You will still be able to read and link to these reader comments, but for current discussions please see the “Open Discussion” page.
Thanks!
gline is not the only minister
just the only one det get caught so far!
Nuff corruption in de place – I would also like to deal with de man on de BENCH who sell me out. I was warned that he was going to do it , so I was not surprised. No wonder he will remain a drunkard for the rest of his life. I will see him aroud de BEND ( pun intended)
The hostile attack preceded by darts of venomous insults punctured my spirit even though I was ten feet away and not the object of his rage. He literally dragged the stool from under her and ripped two of the legs from it with his bare hands. When that effort failed to completely destroy the piece of furniture, he began violently smashing it into the ground until it was unrecognisable and nothing but splinters covered the floor.
She is young woman, a Barbadian of no more that 26 years and she stood crying and in shock.
This is an account of the overwhelming dishonourable scene I witnessed in the Shaft clothing store in Swan Street of the city. It was more than enough to discourage me from conducting business there ever again. There ought to be a law against what I saw; and if there isn’t, then our ruling government and its ministries associated with labour issues undeniably do not have our best interest at heart.
I entered Shaft store (opposite Boardwalk Fashions) at about 10.33 am on Tuesday 12th September. The mission was to find an inexpensive mid thigh jeans in which I could knock around Cave Hill campus. I was alone in that search for a mere two minutes before a young black Barbadian sales assistant approached me happily willing to help. I began describing the item of clothing and told her of a friend who assured me I could find the pants in that particular store. Before I was through with my depiction, she led me to a rack with the exact same pants I wanted. The saleswoman then inquired my size. After a studying my frame, she advised that because of the cut I should take a size over and directed me to a changing room to confirm her conclusion. The pants fit perfectly.
Then it began.
The man who I later assumed to be the owner and at most a shamanist, sexist pig was hurling profane insults to the top of his voice. As they were no more customers in the store on that particular floor besides me and my cousin who accompanied me, we rushed out of the changing room to see who was the unlucky receptor of such malicious comments. The young woman who had just made my day was standing before a raged, balding male of Indian descent. He completely demoralised her with insolent cutting remarks against her intelligence. The tone and manner of body language he used implied his obvious contempt for both her gender and race. The most amazing thing even up to this point is although he looked up and saw me, a customer about to make a purchase from his establishment, he continued on his rampage.
When he stormed off to his office, I tried to console the young woman who was now crying openly. Apparently despite her attempts to inform her boss that she was not shirking her duties but only sitting until I returned from the dressing room, he blew up in a violent attack on her character. To make matters worse, the Indian who again was hurling contemptuous commentary returned to persecute the young woman for another minute before he took the stairs.
I immediately turned to another Indian male who I assume is a relative of the raging bull for help. He merely hung his head. At that point I returned the pants to the rack and left the store encouraging the woman to find employment elsewhere.
Is this what Barbadians can look forward to in the workplace? Suffering harsh, demoralising conditions at the hands of aliens in a country that belongs to us?
It is time we took control of this island and everything in it. Let us develop ourselves, talents and dreams to provide food and jobs for our families and fellow Barbadians. Let us squeeze arrogant and ungrateful aliens like Shaft from among us.
Anonymous, he probably treats his wife the same way.
Blacks in Barbados have brought all this on themselves. I am not sure which group is more guilty – the “educated” or the uneducated.
Read the Willie lynch story. That is still in practice today but the proponents of it are not white they are black.
I often laugh when I hear that blacks control Barbados, I am also very embarrassed when I hear it because I know that the people who know better must be saying to themselves, “black people so stupid”
The hard work of a minority controlling the majority has been given the majority themselves. The profits of the white must be 10 fold what they were during the times of chattel slavery. If on of the fore fathers of this present set of Barbadian whites were to come back to life they would be proud of how their sons have continued in their legacy.
The education system in Barbados has failed Barbadians. Bob Marley once said that if he were educated he would be a damn fool. Our education system produces thousands of fools every year.
One of the most successful marketing gimmicks in Barbadian history is by mister COW Williams. He is always reminding he flock of Negroes that he is just like them and indeed on of them… he came from humble beginnings. Maybe that’s why he is so rich now…
We are the unwanted visitor in what should be our own country. We are were previously only wanted for our labor.
What I have said is pretty vague I know, I would like to contribute to this site if I may.
Oil tumbles below $60.
Biggest slump for crude in over 15 years as worries about supplies fade.
September 25 2006: 5:59 AM EDT
……………
SINGAPORE (Reuters) —
Oil prices fell to a six-month low under $60 a barrel on Monday
as BP’s move to restore output at Prudhoe Bay earlier than expected added to a sense of healthy, secure supplies,
while demand growth questions loomed large.
U.S. light, sweet crude for November sank 99 cents to $59.56 a barrel in electronic trading. London Brent crude lost $1.04 to $59.37.
—————–
Yippee!
prices at de Bajan gas pump coming down jes’ now!
Riiiiight! – u believe dat!
Now they find out what the market will bear (upwards of $3 a gill!) they’ll do their best to keep it up there!
There was an article in the Nation (“It Matters to Maria: Storage Spot – A Menace to Residents” July 7, 2006) that a neighbor shared with me. I have since searched for additional information, particularly a response from the Ministry of Public Works, as to some of the issues brought forth by the residents.
I found out from the residents in the area that the MPW, within three days of this article, began to clear the area behind the houses. When the depot manager was spotted out with the bulldozers was asked what their plans were, the response was “we are doing work on the grounds of MPW”. Furthermore, when asked her name (we knew it from some of the other workers) she simply stated that she was “an employee of the Ministry”. She obviously missed her NISE training!
Further research through phone calls determined that if a private individual was dumping or otherwise developing their land in such a fashion that it disturbed the ecosystem (the Pine valley is a watershed adjacent to the Prince Gap Depot) or neighbors, that all manners of hell would break loose.
What is the agency that would be investigating? You guessed it – MPW!
Who is policing the police in this case? A temporary dump is still – a dump!
http://bararchive.bits.baseview.com/archive_detail.php?archiveFile=./pubfiles/bar/archive/2006/July/07/Editorial/22509.xml&start=0&numPer=20&keyword=storage+spot+a+menace+to+residents§ionSearch=&begindate=1%2F1%2F1994&enddate=12%2F31%2F2006&authorSearch=&IncludeStories=1&pubsection=&page=&IncludePages=1&IncludeImages=1&mode=allwords&archive_pubname=Daily+Nation%09%09%09
IT MATTERS TO MARIA: Storage spot — a menace to residents Date July 07, 2006 Brief IT MATTERS TO MARIA: Storage spot — a menace to residents
by MARIA BRADSHAW
RESIDENTS living in Collymore Rock, St Michael, are expressing concern about the storage of road-building material at the back of Prince Road Depot.
Gregory King, a Barbadian living in the United States who comes here every three months, says each time he is astonished about what he sees as destruction of the land and natural vegetation of the area.
Prince Road Depot stores road building material like marl, sand, asphalt and grits on a vast area of Government land behind the building.
But King and other residents said they were concerned that the material was blocking a natural water course and that the storage of these materials was destroying the natural vegetation.
They also complained about dust and being disturbed during the night by trucks dropping off material at the depot.
King pointed out that the marl was being pushed further and further back on the land.
He wants to know if any environmental study was conducted in the area on the impact the storage of the materials was having on wild life especially monkeys, and what effect it was having on the water course.
He also wants to know if there isn’t a structured plan for the land use in terms of capacity and limitations. Furthermore, he believes that no activities should take place there after 11:30 p.m.
Back yard flooded
“If I was living here I would find it quite difficult to deal with that kind of noise during the night. It is not a neighbourly attitude,” he stated.
King, who grew up in the area, said he recently noticed that his backyard flooded when it rained and he expressed fears that this was because the water course was blocked.
When contacted about the situation Pierson Proverbs, technician at the depot, said only last week they brought in a tractovator to clear the water course. “We are putting measures in place to ensure that there is no flooding,” he stated. He explained that the materials which were being stored in the depot’s back yard was for the construction of roads. However, he admitted that trucks dumped material from various roads where work was taking place during the night to be removed the next day.
“They use here because it is more convenient and quicker than going to the dump,” Proverbs said, pointing out that this practice would cease as soon as the road works were completed.
He said while they would debush some of the area the vegetation helped prevent erosion.
hp?archiveFile=./pubfiles/bar/archive/2006/July/07/Editorial/22509.xml&start=0&numPer=20&keyword=storage+spot+a+menace+to+residents§ionSearch=&begindate=1%2F1%2F1994&enddate=12%2F31%2F2006&authorSearch=&IncludeStories=1&pubsection=&page=&IncludePages=1&IncludeImages=1&mode=allwords&archive_pubname=Daily+Nation%0A%09%09%09
This was written in labourparty blog.
Very interesting reading.
1. Royalrumble Says:
September 26th, 2006 at 4:49 pm
Have bloggers carefully read the question of cat eyes, the embodiment of the DLP. He asked, If Mascoll’s tenure was so magnificent why in the three years that he was there was he not able to marshall forces which would have ensured the inihilation of David Thompson?
Now bloggers tell if he and thompson were in the same party why should he want to inihilate him? you see this is precisely the problem I have with Thompson and all those who support him. They feel that you have to destroy in order to build. That is why that leadership struggle had to end in a blood bath rather than in the spirit of accommodation and co-exittance. that is why all those other memebers who left the party had to do so, because there is simply no room in that party for dissenting views and opinions. It is thompson’s way are no way.
That is an awful state to be in, especially when you consider the fact that Thompson has very poor management skills, zero human relation skills, no self esteem, no respect for persons he considers lesser than himself, a deep fear for persons more intelligent than he, possesses a very strong colonial mentality, shows no interest in the disciplines of economics and history and is basically a very intellectually weak person.
Mascoll was not focussed on inihilating thompson but rather on taking on the BLP that is why he did not spend his time there marshalling and forces against thompson. That is simply not Mascoll’s nature. He is really a very sincere person who could have been a wealth of assistance to Barrow’s Party but as he has done over and over again thompy ensured his departure. Thanks to PM Arthur who flung open the doors of compassion to ensure that yet another of Barrow’s children were provided for in this country. Mascoll now joins his other simblings Kerrie, Grant, Greenidge, Peter Walcott, Bovell and many others who are now making their national contribution to the development of this great Nation. Thank you Mr. Owen S. Arthur, Prime Minister for life and father of First World Barbados
Reasons why Barbados’ Politicians fear little and are not held accountable:
1. Barbados’ Politicians do not fear the press. There isn’t a free press in Barbados; both the journalists and the publications that they work for are too fearful of the government to publish articles that reveal the underbelly of Barbados politics. If Barbadians are kept ignorant how can they act?
2. Barbados’ Politicians do not fear loosing the next election, as they will almost always fall on their feet. For example, many politicians are lawyers; through a determined lack of reform or modernisation (by said politicians) of Barbados’ hopelessly out-of-date land transaction laws, Barbadian lawyer-politicians collect exorbitant fees for their services. It is not this way in most developed countries like Canada and the UK.
2. Barbados’ Politicians do not fear the Middle classes. In other countries (such as the UK and Canada) politicians fear the Middle classes; the middle-income community contribute heavily to the treasury via taxation and generally have the education and time to closely watch politicians, and see them for what they really are and to understand their underlying motives and strategies. Unfortunately Barbados’ middle-income group is so small that these people do not have the weight of Votes to bring about political change.
3. Barbados’ Politicians do not fear the people. Usually of the better – sometimes for the worst – Barbadians are some of the most complacent people in the world: The minorities (white, Asian, Arabic, black middle-class (yes, politically You are a minority) are scared to put their heads above the parapet in the fear that they will be victimised. Poor Bajans (that is, the vast majority of Barbadians) do not have the luxury of time (and sometimes education) to sit and think about their politicians’ true motives and plans. The vast majority of Barbadians are financially struggling; their Votes are easy to buy – a hundred dollar bill means allot to this group.
I pick up the point u r making on RR but r u sure u r not picking on RR for personal reasons because I can cut and paste onto this blog quite a few of such instances from other persons on the BLP blog. I honestly do not feel that it is a case of inability but rather the lack of time and care for the language in these circumstances. I am guilty of it myself. This is something u will find all over the internet and in cell phone text messaging.
Your point is a small one but if you feel u must make it then be my guest.
Hants I see the point u r making about RR but r u sure u r not picking on him personal reasons because I can cut and paste, onto this blog quite a few of such instances from other persons on the BLP blog. I honestly do not feel that it is a case of inability but rather the lack of time and care for the language in these circumstances. I am guilty of it myself. This is something u will find all over the internet and in cell phone text messaging.
Your point is a small one but if u feel u must make it then be my guest.
I found the last sentence of RR’s submission to be a very powerful compliment to the PM.
Prime Minister for life and father of First world Barbados.
I think this should be carved in stone outside the PM’s office.
Better yet,We should save this title for when Owen is Officialy added to our list of National Heroes.
Does the BFP have a policy moderating post that have offensive content… like refering to other posters with terms like ***** or **** Jockey?
…… The answer is “yes” Andrew, but remember we are just a part-time bunch of guys and gals and don’t see everything all the time. When someone alerts us to offensive content, we have a look and review it.
Oh… and watch your language please!
Then I might point out that you missed this.
From
http://barbadosfreepress.wordpress.com/2006/10/16/barbados-lawyer-wanted-for-beating-of-teen-thoughts-of-racial-tension-white-privilege-black-attitudes/
#
Nathan
October 16th, 2006 at 12:11 pm
Crimes of their Race…….. What a **** Jocky you are they might be crimes in todays world cilmate but back in the “Dark Ages” these were common business deals Black & White were slaves just the spotlight seems to be on Black side of things because a sensativity towards the subject just like the Jews use today aswell and look at that situation now. Stop grumbling and get on with things problems in your life is down to yourself not your history because you yourself create it!
**** Edited by Robert. Thanks for pointing this out, Andrew – and for the suggestion of leaving an editing note.
Also.. a note saying that you have moderated a comment would probabaly be a good idea. As it is not absolutly clear that you have moderated the above post by me and it could be intrurreted as attributing words to me that are not mine
Also, I think that “**** Jockey” does not really hide what is being said?
Hey Guys, you going to introduce RSS on comments any time soon? and if you have already… my apologies and how do I get it to work?
Hey BFP,
On previous occasions I know you have raised some issues regarding the pros and cons of how we use our limited land resources in Barbados, whether it be for using our land to grow varieties of cane suitable for producing ethanol or to turn it into golf courses and housing developments of vacation homes of foreigners.
According to this article, we better be prepared to use it to start growing more of our own food:
Grain Drain: Get Ready for Peak Grain
by Wayne Roberts
SNIP
The world’s grain reserve has been dipped into for six of the last seven years, and is now at its lowest point since the early 1970s. There’s enough in the cupboard to keep people alive on basic grains for 57 days. Two months of survival foods is all that separates mass starvation from drought, plagues of locusts and other pests, or wars and violence that disrupt farming, all of which are more plentiful than food.
To put the 57 days into geopolitical perspective, China’s shortfall in wheat is greater than the entire wheat production of Canada, one of the world’s breadbaskets. Since the World Trade Organization prohibits government intervention that keeps any items off the free trade ledger, there’s no law that says that Canadians, or any other people, get first dibs on their own food production.
To put the 57 days in historical perspective, the world price for wheat went up six-fold in 1973, the last time reserves were this low. Wheat prices ricocheted through the food supply chain in many ways, from higher prices for cereal and breads eaten directly by humans, to the cost for milk and meat produced from livestock fed a grain-based diet. If such a chain reaction happens this year, wheat could fetch $21 a bushel, again about six times its current price. It might fetch even more, given that there are two other pressing demands for grains that were not as forceful during the 1970s. Those happy days pre-dated modern fads such as using grains as a feedstock for ethanol, now touted as an alternative to petroleum fuels for cars, and pre-dated factory barns that bring grains to an animal’s stall, thereby eliminating farm workers who tended livestock while they grazed in fields on pasture grasses.
Look forward to two new questions at the supermarket cash register: Will that be cash or chargex? Will that be for food basics, meat or car fuel? University ethics classes and church elders can also ponder the moral dilemmas imposed on the wealthy when they choose fuel and meat while others starve.
SNIP
If looming food shortages – quite a shift from obsessing about obesity, isn’t it – make it on the radar of government officials charged with safeguarding public health, a raft of new policy issues will need to be addressed. A big question mark has to be put on ethanol fuels, except those made from crop wastes.
Food sovereignty, the right of a people to set their own food policies, emerges as a precondition of food security, and should put the world free trade agenda on hold. Planning measures that prohibit urban sprawl onto good farmland – Ontario’s greenbelt is an excellent example – become axiomatic. So do government-guaranteed minimal prices for farmers producing basic foods, the same kinds of guarantees now provided all self-regulating professions such as doctors and lawyers, as well as apprenticed tradesmen and tax-drivers, all of whom would have problems working if they didn’t eat. And so do measures that promote food production in cities, not just as a healthy hobby but as a public health essential. A garden on top of every garage, a veggie stew in every pot… we will see this and more in the years ahead.
More at:
http://www.energybulletin.net/21815.html
Re: Steve’s Dry Cleaning
I write to apologise to all customers for the manner in which our depots have been closed.
Closure without adequate notice has been insensitive and inconvenient in the extreme to customers, our staff and our landlords. These actions were beyond our control.
However, we wish to indicate that we are in the process of ensuring the continuity of the service we provide, under a new trading name: TRIPLE C CLEANERS.
In a few days full details of the way forward will be provided to give a sense of certainty to staff and our valued customers.
Respectfully
P. Antonio Rudder
Director
Oberver: Great Snippet and very true.
However, our priorities at the moment seem to be humongous houses, each on plenty of land that used to be agricultural, golf, and acting as ‘the big first world nation’. Food, agriculture…what are those?
We can always import food from Guyana and Trinidad. Surely that dependence will not give T&T future control of our Nation (despite the ownership of much land and other assets here by T&T corporations and citizens already, despite the location of major institutional structures in T&T e.g. CCJ.
We be the great big land of Barbados and that will not change….will it?
BFP
You see what an asset you are that someone ie Mr Antonio Rudder can post a free advert on your site.It tells me something about your readership and your growing stature in the public’s eye.
Very Good BFP
Where Have All The Good Lawyers Gone: Policing The Custodians Of Our Legal System.
Most of us was raised to believe that the law is the glory of a decent society; that the rule of law is the sine qua non of a postmodern civilization; that international law is the greatest protector of human rights; that lawyers coupled with doctors remain an elite profession to which a young person can aspire; that making laws is the great work of governments and legislatures; that law schools are among the noble places of learning in society; that the title “judge” or “magistrate” was perhaps one of the highest appellations one can have in society; and that the jury system is an essential component of a just society. Sadly, most of the abovementioned ideals have become a pathetic nonsense. The legal system is now our enemy according to many disaffected souls.
This condition is not a modern or a post-modern phenomenon. As far back as the 7th century BC, the ancient prophet Habakkuk grappled with these same issues of oppression, infidelity and lawlessness. He complains to God by asking the questions:
“How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But You do not listen! “Violence!” I cry, but you do not come to save. Must I forever see this sin and misery all around me? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight. The law has become paralyzed and useless, and there is no justice given in the courts. The wicked far outnumber the righteous, and justice is perverted with bribes and trickery.”
Many like the prophet of old have come to fear almost everything having to do with the law. Though there are many fine people in the legal profession, and though law is necessary to protect society from descending into chaos, we now fear the legal profession more than we do Islamic terror or suicide bombers.
To many reading this article these sentiments will come as no surprise while to others it may appear a bit harsh. The basis of this exegesis looks at the ways many of my colleagues and I along with scores of others who have been mis-treated by lawyers, solicitors or barristers over basic property, human rights issues, judicial representation and other legal transactions (im)purely for their own gain.
One would assume that lawyers, attorneys, barristers and officers of the courts (call them what you may) and the law go hand in hand. At least we suspect that is what it is in theory. However, upon closer examination, lawyers and the law have very little in common nowadays, unless of course you’re talking about the attorneys’ propensity for using the law to their best advantage. If you look closely, you’ll discover that the legal concepts of right and wrong have sadly been outlawed by the unwritten law of who’s got the best lawyer in a given situation. Truth, integrity, justice, equity and fairplay are classed as misdemeanours in our society and to a large extent our world.
Regardless of whether we like it or not, lawyers continue to meticulously manipulate the legal system to fit their own self serving needs; their need for self-aggrandisement, the ossification of reputation based on practice and who wins more and finally, the leviathan of social prestige called “wealth and money” which supposedly separates ‘the men from the boys’. The rules of the game, the unwritten law if you will, heavily favor the lawyers and the system they follow and why shouldn’t they some may ask?
Many of my colleagues who are EXPATS (brothers living abroad) who wanting to invest in our homeland of Barbados find it a proverbial minefield of legal bureaucracy whether it is the sale of or the purchase of property, the acquisition of a mortgage or the simplest of legal processes. The incidences of financial impropriety, stalling, and over-charging are endless. The purchaser of a piece of property is stalled continuously as money is exacted from the Buyer due to supposed checks and counter-checks, the submission of letters which takes ages, the procurement of title deeds and all the relevant paperwork which is in the lawyer’s possession. At the same time, the Seller’s money sits in the attorney’s bank accounts making interest as innocent people are held in perpetual limbo.
Attorneys by and large, even the good ones who play by the rules and conduct themselves in an honest, ethical and forthright fashion, are reticent to speak out against the rogue attorneys who wantonly abuse the legal system, exploit their clientele and give the legal profession such a bad name, where most people sees them as crooks and highway robbers with a certified license to steal.
Rather than risk being blackballed or ostracised by their fellow cronies for crying foul, many hold their noses and turn a blind eye towards the nefarious shenanigans of the less than honorable colleagues in their midst. This plays right into the hands of those dirty dealing lawyers as they remain unaccountable to no one and can continue in their malpractice.
My business partner has spent the last year trying to get closure on a business deal involving a piece of property. He has had to make six trips to Barbados in order to get his solicitor to finish the legal paperwork and to hand over the documents for which he has already paid for. Yet the delays continue to mount and the excesses and excuses abounded. To date, he has received the release of his documents but due to the intervention of another senior officer of the court. What a travesty!
Regardless of whether lawyers bill their clientele by the hour (some cases $500 – $1500) or work out a contingent fee arrangement to offset work on behalf of their clients, these custodians of our legal system are laughing all the way to the bank. Some have argued that there has never been a better time to make money in the legal profession than at this moment.
Our legal system is in shambles, in no small part due to unscrupulous lawyers and their unwritten code of conduct. They don’t want anyone messing with the way the legal system is set up. With the cards so heavily stacked in their favor, who could hardly blame them? Legal reform is a bad word. For these crafty lawyers, (is there really any other kind?). They have meticulously fostered “a sue unto others” mentality among the general population, where we are now quick to run to a lawyer over even the most trivial of disputes or inconveniences.
Lawyers can accuse you of everything under the sun, trash your reputation and drag your good name into the dirt (and all you can do is sit there and watch it happen) but dare anyone like me purport the unsavoury nature of their dealings in the print media or the public domain and all hell breaks loose. Even trying to get this document to go into publication was like pulling teeth.
No one is arguing for or against the unwritten law which dictates that lawyers make their money as well. However, the problem I have and others like me is that these are the unilateral powers lawyers hold over us all and it is resonant in every fabric of social life. You have to swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth but the lawyers don’t have to. They can lie on a stack of Bibles it would not make an iota of difference. In the courtroom, you have to show respect or risk being cited with contempt of court but lawyers don’t have to. You have to abide by specific timetables while the lawyers can drag things out and tie you up in litigation, procrastinate over your property sale and closure or simply drag out your legal work or compensation on for years. This is the law!
The legal profession in Barbados is truly in a state of moral hazard. But then, who is willing to admit to this state of affairs? The world of modern jurists is a law onto themselves seeking only what is in the interest of their own pockets. Somehow, I always thought the client’s interest was the sole and paramount responsibility of his or her lawyer. But maybe I got that wrong as well!
The code of conduct for lawyers stipulate that they must always act in the best interests of their clients subject to preserving their independence as solicitors, barristers or officers of the court and to the due observance of the law, sound professional practice rules and the on-going principles of good professional conduct.
Lawyers should not permit their own personal interests or those of the legal profession in general to influence their acting on behalf of clients; furthermore, their acting must be free of all political considerations.
Lawyers should advise their clients of any significant development in relation to their case or transaction and explain matters to the extent reasonably necessary to permit informed decisions by clients regarding the instructions which is required to be given by them.
Information should be clear and comprehensive and where necessary or appropriate confirmed in writing. In particular lawyers should advise clients in writing when it becomes known that the cost of work will materially exceed any estimate that has been given and should also advise the client when the limit of the original estimate provided is being approached. The duty to communicate effectively extends to include the obligation on lawyers to account to their clients in respect of all relevant monies passing through the lawyer’s hands.
The fees charged by lawyers should be fair and reasonable in all circumstances. Factors to be considered in relation to the reasonableness of the fee include:
• the importance of the matter to the client;
• the amount or value of any money, property or transaction involved;
• the complexity of the matter or the difficulty or novelty of the question raised;
• the skill, labour, specialised knowledge and responsibility involved on the part of the lawyer;
• the time expended;
• the length, number and importance of any documents or other papers prepared or perused;
• and the place where and the circumstances in which the services or any part thereof are rendered and the degree of urgency involved.
Lawyers must act honestly at all times and in such a way as to put their personal integrity beyond question. A lawyer’s actions and his or her personal behaviour must be consistent with the need for mutual trust and confidence among clients, the courts, the public and fellow lawyers.
For example, lawyers must observe the Accounts Rules which govern the manner in which clients’ funds may be held by solicitors and which are designed to ensure that clients’ monies are safeguarded. Lawyers who are dishonest in a matter not directly affecting their clients are nonetheless guilty of professional misconduct. How often this occurs but is seldom disclosed.
Sadly policing the custodians of the legal system remains a colossal undertaking especially where phenomenal sums of monies are involved. The legal profession is no longer about the letter and the spirit of the law but rather about making money, no matter the cost, whether in human lives, moral integrity or political expediency.
Take the case of Stanley Works, international tool-maker and conglomerate which announced a “move” of its headquarters-on paper-from New Britain, Connecticut, to Bermuda in the Caribbean and of its imaginary management to Barbados as the offshore haven.
Although its buildings and staff would actually stay put in the United States manufacturing hammers and wrenches, Stanley Works would no longer pay taxes on profits from international trade. Interesting fiscal manoeuvre.
The Securities and Exchange Commission, run by Harvey Pitt – a lawyer who for more than twenty years represented the top accounting and Wall Street firms he was regulating – accepted the pretence as legal. Talk about turning a blind eye!
“The whole business is a sham…”The headquarters will be in a country where that company is not permitted to do business. They’re saying a company is managed in Barbados when there’s one meeting there a year.” fumed New York District Attorney Robert Morgenthau, who more than any other U.S. law enforcer has attacked the offshore system and the loophole or in this case “the Bermuda Triangle” which corporations try to jump through. “In the prospectus, they say legally controlled and managed in Barbados. If they took out the word legally, it would be a fraud. But Barbadian law says it’s legal, so it’s legal.” The conceit apparently also persuaded the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Stanley Works’ accountants, the giant global firm Ernst & Young, and its lawyers, the prominent Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, presumably advised their client that this was a good way to keep from paying $30 million in U.S. taxes. But it turns out that Stanley Works was planning to save on more than the taxes on business done outside the United States. Even though it only paid $7 million in U.S. tax on foreign income in 2001, Stanley Works indicated that the move would save it at least $25 million in 2002. The immediate effect would be to increase the salaries of Stanley Works’ executives, who were already being paid millions; American taxpayers would make up the loss.
That scam hit the headlines, and in the face of a threatened lawsuit by the Attorney General of Connecticut, Stanley Works backed down. The AFL-CIO and unions such as UNITE and AFSCME are using pension stock votes to try to bring runaway companies like Stanley Works back onshore. They say the moves deprive the United States of taxes and also reduce shareholders’ control, including the right to examine books or sue management.
But Stanley Works’ ploy is only one of myriad ways companies use the offshore system to cheat on taxes. Companies in international trade routinely use shell accounts. According to a Miami private investigator, “If I have a Colombian company that imports Mercedes trucks from Germany, the company ordering the trucks will be registered in the British Virgin Islands or Curacao; no Colombian firm will handle invoices; Colombian tax authorities won’t know how much business they’re doing.” These practices are endemic in Third World countries because shrewd lawyers circumnavigate the boundaries of the law and big money is a powerful catalyst for corruption even amongst the custodians of the legal system.
As the age-old adage goes, “all it takes for corruption and evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing”. Barbados maybe a drop in the ocean compared to larger economies like the US and the EU but the civil and legal norms of accountability must also govern our practice and our right standing within the international economic community. Government must work tirelessly at greater simplification and transparency within the legal system where the interests of its people and that of others are protected from rogue traders, unscrupulous lawyers and corrupt politicians.
This dossier was not intended to be a scathing report on the damnable practices done by a few within the system. Rather its import is to create a forum for debate, analysis and hopefully change. It is my desire, hope and pray that the purveyors and custodians of our legal system be watchful and mindful of the facts, recognising that the hallmarks of a society in decay are when no one guards the guards.
Barbados get publicity in proposed illegal stem cell trade.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/factual/pip/cvdws/
Sir Allan Fields is not at the CBC to “clean up” the finances and the operations. He is their to protect the interest of Cable and Wireless. The announcement of Sir Allan as the Chairman of the CBC creates a serious conflict of interest as well major concerns for the fair trading commission. A commission that recently announed crack downs on inncesious board relationships. The average Barbadian does not understand that in todays world the CBC & C&W are competitors. With the current develpoment of technolgies, media and telecomminications are one and the same. In the US their are competing aggresively agains each other. Spending billions to win the battle for each others customers. MCTV has the potential to provide telephone and internet services to all of its current and future customers. Offering, what is know in the US, as “Triple Play”: high speed internet, telephone services, and cable or TV at a price below standard telephone service. What this would mean is that the local incumbant telephone operator, in our case C&W, would loose tonnes of busines…maybe put out of business as telephone service would basically be free. Our Prime Minister and Sir. Allan know this. An offer was made just before Sir. Allan was made Chairman, to the previous board of directors at CBC for MCTV. This would have meant that MCTV/CBC it would have had a partner with deep pockets to assist it in offering the Triple Play service. The Board had accepted in principle. Then suddently came a new change in the Board with Sir. Allan heading the team. All negotiations with the company came to an end. Major changes at board level were announced. The ones who were asking for transperency and close to the previous Minister, who had sactioned the previous negotiations, were asked to resign. C&W does not have the money to invest in this kind of infastructure to offer this service to all of Barbados. I suspect what they will do, and I beleive with the PM’s blessing…who knows what was promised to whom is to buy and hold. They will hold on to MCTV, do very little for a while, but use MCTV to deter any new entrants. This means that the Barbadian public will suffer in the short and long term. Sir. Allan should immediately be asked to resign as this creates an enormous conflict of interest and any offering of CBC or MCTV for investment should be made as public and transparent as possible. Barbadian people wake up…things are not always what they seem to be…while you were discussing the CBC issues as if its was some kind of circus a serious and dangerous plan was unreveling that would put YOU in a losing position. Please…DO NOT LET THIS HAPPEN.
Sir Allan Fields is not at the CBC to “clean up” the finances and the operations. He is their to protect the interest of Cable and Wireless. The announcement of Sir Allan as the Chairman of the CBC creates a serious conflict of interest as well major concerns for the fair trading commission. A commission that recently announed crack downs on inncesious board relationships. The average Barbadian does not understand that in todays world the CBC & C&W are competitors. With the current develpoment of technolgies, media and telecomminications are one and the same. In the US their are competing aggresively agains each other. Spending billions to win the battle for each others customers. MCTV has the potential to provide telephone and internet services to all of its current and future customers. Offering, what is know in the US, as “Triple Play”: high speed internet, telephone services, and cable or TV at a price below standard telephone service. What this would mean is that the local incumbant telephone operator, in our case C&W, would loose tonnes of busines…maybe put out of business as telephone service would basically be free. Our Prime Minister and Sir. Allan know this. An offer was made just before Sir. Allan was made Chairman, to the previous board of directors at CBC for MCTV. This would have meant that MCTV/CBC it would have had a partner with deep pockets to assist it in offering the Triple Play service. The Board had accepted in principle. Then suddently came a new change in the Board with Sir. Allan heading the team. All negotiations with the company came to an end. Major changes at board level were announced. The ones who were asking for transperency and close to the previous Minister, who had sactioned the previous negotiations, were asked to resign. C&W does not have the money to invest in this kind of infastructure to offer this service to all of Barbados. I suspect what they will do, and I beleive with the PM’s blessing…who knows what was promised to whom is to buy and hold. They will hold on to MCTV, do very little for a while, but use MCTV to deter any new entrants. This means that the Barbadian public will suffer in the short and long term. Sir. Allan should immediately be asked to resign as this creates an enormous conflict of interest and any offering of CBC or MCTV for investment should be made as public and transparent as possible. Barbadian people wake up…things are not always what they seem to be…while you were discussing the CBC issues as if its was some kind of circus a serious and dangerous plan was unreveling that would put YOU in a losing position. Please…DO NOT LET THIS HAPPEN.
BARC (Barbadian Againts Real Corruption)
I hope apologists like Pandora reads this.The more you hear about his maneouvring and the questionable practices of owen arthur then the more we realise that we are like Joseph,sold into slavery by our brothers without realising it,and now they have thrown us down in a pit.
Bajans must reserve a special kind of message to be sent to all these BLP politicians bar none.Mia,billie,owen,farley,lynette,payne,dale marshall,rommell marshall,artherley,wood,mascoll,liz thompson,cynthia forde,edgehill,eastmond,dugid etc etc.
We will not be satisfied with them just losing their seat,but they must be investigated if there is found to be wrongdoing and prosecuted.
Nothing against Fields personally, he has done well for himself and jolly good for him. However, in this circumstance a Chairman of a private entity, major at that, also being appointed as Chairman of a major public entity is by any standards, a blatant conflict of interest.
Where is the Advocate or Nation editorial? Hmmmm?
Or will they report (as usual)…’the Minister said’ , ‘the cleaner said’, the ‘whoever’ said?
Yes, that is reporting. It is however NOT JOURNALISM.
Saw Harold Hoyte’s article on the ‘Power Puff’ girls last month. Cute. But at this stage irrelevant fluff.
It is obvious to any bystander that apart from Mia there is only one ‘power person’ in the party, who is capable of leading it. Whatever the BLP would like the electorate to believe. Aside from the PM himself, not Mascoll, not Marshall, not Symmonds.
Yes, Mia seems to have been sidelined. But that is probably temproary and to suit election purposes. Give the others a chance to ‘build’ an image.
So, fairly irrelevant.
He should be dealing with real issues. Conflicts of interests. Public spending and priorities. Lifestyle and living standards of the average Barbadian.
But that might step on too many toes, Government and Corporate.
Isn’t there a Social Partnership in Barbados and didn’t Sir Allen and his lot belong?
Just asking!
A partnership is like a company and its assets are utilised for the good of the partnership by its directors …. sorry partners.
Rumples
Good point.Where is the Nation and where is the advocate?Where is VOB?Ican’t ask where is CBC ,cause we know where they are.
Any of you bajans overeseas reading this and you have some money and looking for a good investment – a real newspaper in barbados is as good a bet as any.
Have you all readers noticed that when owen arthur first assumed the reins as P.M. he ‘big -up’ and embraced small black business men like; Gray ‘doc’ Broomes of Pizza Man fame,and Neville Rowe of former Julie ‘N’ fame and David Commissong and others.He talked a lot then about enfranchising small black businesses,he put in place the venture trust fund set up (although red tape prevented you from accessing these funds),but he laid claim to being ‘of the people and for the people’.
Guess what now people,the citizens then started seeing large scale real estate projects going up which catered to the foreign mainly white rich clientele and which gobbled up the increasingly shrinking land supply.
We saw certain ‘big -ups’ in society,friends of the prime minister or other ministers,or party – card carrying members getting large public contracts without in some cases bidding for it, or in some cases under – bidding and then making up the losses with cost over – runs with enough left over to give a kick – back.
Owen arthur was now seen praising rich white folks at the westmoreland luncheon telling these rich people how much he needed them,he then started to insult the lil black bajan folks at openings such as the Apes Hill development, by telling bajans “they too envious of people who make money,and he will support these kinda projects come hell or highwater”.
So the citizens then asked:will the real owen arthur stand up?And stood up he did,that is – the father of first world B’dos,the lover of the guyanese and the scorner of the bajans,the ‘I will do as I like whatever you people say – arthur’.
Then the people started saying:”wait who is dis man boy,wey he cum from boy?”
“Didn’t the Nation newspaper,Advocate and VOB tell us what a intelligent,nice man from humble background in St Peter he was?He wasn’t no negrocrat yuh know?”
So the people started grumbling and asking the newspapers and radio and t.v. stations:”wuh wunnah fool we so for?”
But the media outlets didnot hear them they were too busy making money.
That my friend is the story of present – day Barbados.
Why does the Minister of International Transport and Tourism not negotiate or insist that the smaller Cruise Ships anchor off Speightstown instead of blocking up the Bridgetown Port to the disadvantage of Cargo Ship operators?
Already they have been paid millions do bring passengers here; already they get priority berthing; it is said that they already get concessions on berthing fees that the Cargo operators do not get (no one at BPI will say for sure).
Such a move will allow businesses in Mr. Arthur’s constituency to develop. Duty Free shops, restaurants, taxi services, tours, etc. would flourish. It would ease traffic in the and around Bridgetown. It would allow island tours to start in the north. Moreover it will allow for the freeing-up of a berth in the Bridgetown Port which should be dedicated for cargo and which would create a more efficient and effective operation.
Reported in the press so far this week.
Minister of Roads, Gline Clarke, wants Barbadians to report any pot-holes in the roads where they live. He does not give a phone or fax number. But he can start with Dayrells Road, Golf Club Road, Rendezvous, Harmony Hall.
Jamaica will INCREASE the number of their hotel room BY 9,000. Barbados which relies so heavily on tourism cant even make a total of 7,000.
Government will spend $9 million on beach rehabilitation now that the beaches are beginning to return to normal by themselves.
Michael “Ikael Tafari” Hutchinson should know all about “The White Problem” (Nation 18 Dec.) since he is 80% himself.
Notice the ads for the fancy ring and the watch “lost” and the rewards offered? Hmmm.
Well look out for more in your daily newspapers.
congrats – really informative website!
Dear Sir
To whom is may concern
I wish to complain about the special visa and have some issues that may cause difficulties for me and my family.
We are booked to travel from the US to Barbados in March 2007 to attend a friends wedding. We leave the region for New Zealand before the world cup starts on 24 March 2007, yet from the Caricom website it appears we will have to obtain three visas at $300US.
The Caricom site also says that we need to allow 4 weeks for you to process the passports. I am not sure if you are aware but January and February are summer months in New Zealand and Australia and a significant number of people will be travelling internationally and using their passports. As Barbados does not have diplomatic representation in my country and have not established an office in Australia, this process will cause significant problems for many NZ and Australian citizens.
My family and I are going to Australia for a holiday on 17 February 2007 and will need our passports. On 26 February 2007 we fly to the US to go to Disneyland. Again we will need our passports. Therefore according to Caricom rules, which were only announced yesterday, I will need to get visas from Caricom between 23 December 2006 and 17 February 2007, right in the middle of the Christmas holiday season when many businesses and agencies are closed or on limited hours.
My family (wife and child) and myself were planning on travelling on our NZ passports. I have a UK passport, so can use that. But my wife and child are both born in NZ and only have NZ passports.
Furthermore I take issue with the list of countries Caricom have identified as needing visas and those that do not. As you may be aware NZ and Australia are on the visa waiver programme into the US. This system is only open to a few countries which have highly developed and respected border security controls. This alone should give Caricom great comfort that NZers and Australians can be trusted in terms of any national security risks to your region. However, Caricom have placed a visa requirement on us. NZ has had only one terrorist incident in its entire 166 year history.
On the other hand you are allowing freedom of travel for South African citizens, who I do not think are on the US waiver programme, and UK and Irish citizens, who are more likely to participate in national security risk behaviours than NZ citizens.
Please ask your government to reconsider its policy. It can only lead to disharmony between Commonwealth member states. Also on the evidence there appears little reason to discriminate against New Zealand, while allowing exemptions for other nations. I quite understand why you may have concerns about Pakistani nationals etc given problems in their region, but New Zealand. We are one of the most peaceful and respected nations on earth.
We spent our honeymoon in Jamacia in 2004 and would expect a better welcome back to the region.
We may have to cancel our trip to Barbados if we can’t get visas without surrendering our passports for 4 weeks.
Yours sincerely
Alan Witcombe
New Zealand
I would like you to comment on all the witchcraft that is taking place in Barbados.
Many Barbadians are practicing this craft either for spiritual gain, finances and to destroy innocent lives.
Some of the people are the ones you would never think would ever so such a thing not only in the ghetto areas but also in the so call heights and terraces and a little birdy told me that witchcraft helps this government win the elections all the time but just to let them know not this one to come because God will expose them.
Also men watch out for the women this is all some of the women and teenagers girls are doing to get men for money and wealth.
So many Barbadian men get their lives shatterted by these ally cats, go home and mistreat their families especially the wives and these women stay on the side lines and play very innocent while all this is happening that they can enjoy other womens hard labour but remember girls God don’t sleep and it all will come back to you.
People think that witchcraft is a big joke but those of you that practice this craft will soon find out what it does to a person when it turn back on you.
Let the public know Barbados Free press and keep the good work up.
Sarah Jane
Sarah is right about things returning to the source. As written in the scriptures,” …nothing is new under the sun” and these actions of obeah, voodoo and the likes are an abomination to Yah (God*) that will be revisited on those of this nation who practice such. Slavery was revisited 400 plus years on a Holy people who thought to go astray and we still refuse to learn. What next must we endure from an unholy lot?
I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes I saw the sign. Love is demanding, without understanding…. saw the sign and it opened up my eyes I saw the sign. No ones gonna drag you up to get into the life where you belong…so where do you belong?(lyrics from the song by Ace of Base)
We should read Hosea 4:6
I heard of an issue that happened around our 40th Independence celebrations where two young artists refused to perform another singers’ song in the Spouge segment at the National Stadium because the establishment of the day didn’t want to have anything to do with him or to give him any of the money now made available to the Bajan artists. This singer has been around for donkey years but some of the newcomers to the industry and some malicious people from ever since won’t help him or even acknowledge his talents and ability to still perform.
I believe that a National Award should be given to Adrian Clarke and Dale Rudder for standing up for their brotherman and the artform name music. We can only steer this music ship towards a great industry if we have all hands on deck….
Thank You!
Sarah Jane & Micah
We are aware of some of the things we have heard over the years about witchcraft.
How about writing us an email that would be the basis for an article – ?
thx
Cliverton
http://www.pledgebank.com/
Thought you guys might like to see this. It has international functionality, and might work as a good basis for people who are serious about making a difference to get together.
Not sure if this is worthy of a comment, but Barbados Postal Service is encouraging the use of using postal codes, but their letterhead still does not incorporate their own postal code for their Cheapside location. If anybody should be leading by example, it would be the Postmaster General.
The barbador cycling union is now officially and “old boys club”. I had the pleasure of attending their award presentation for 2006, which was held on 3rd of january 2007.At this award ceremony with the word ceremony being used loosely, i saw one female athlete win twO prizes compared to the eight prizes that another female athlete received. This is when the shock of the night when the female athlete whom only had two trophies was given most out standing female cyclist in 2006. Now if i had not attended the cycling national championships in 2006 i might have believed that the one or two races that the fist female cyclist had won were more impressive or important, but this was not the case. How can deidre mayers the match sprint champion the keirin champion and the winner of two scratch races at the national stadium out of a total of three scratch races NOT BE THE MOST OUT STANDING FEMALE CYCLIST FOR 2006?On what basis was crystal springer given the most out standing female cyclist award. Is it because her coach colin forde, whom theoretically runs the BCU is the person who made that decision or does the rot go way deeper than him. It is a shame when people can blantly do such acts that show no sense of decency and fair play. It only leads me to wonder about the economic side of how the BCU is run. I will not bother really to speak of the economic and racial prejudice that abounds in the BCU. Just take a loolk for yourself . mrmand1@hotmail.com please forward this to my email accoum i am using my mobile and i am unable to save this text thank you
Ok so i read and I am impressed with the sheer utterance of such topics as those being discussed here.
Now I have to say i am also sincerely disappointed. Not because of content or enthusiasm for such discussions. No what i am concerned with is that aside from speaking anonymously here or amongst friends on the phone or at a lime. NOTHING is ever done in this country. We don’t picket, we don’t come together in large numbers to speak out against these blatant issues taking place here.
When i arrived home 8 years ago, having been gone for 18 years, i saw a hot topic of air conditioning units that were bought for the hospital having disappeared. The same thing that happened then is happening still. We have front page news on our glorious Nation newspaper stating that 2 million dollars has gone missing from gov’t agencies in one year. 2MILLION DOLLARS PEOPLE!!!!
Yet no one goes to jail. Not one single gov’t employee is going to be humiliated and investigated or even brought to prosecution. And dare that happen we will see a small write up on page 6 and it will be swept under the proverbial rug we have called social class quietness.
I have called the society (social class of elite yuppies) in this country a venomous bunch who place the docile average bajan (boisterous and justly annoyed negroes) in a position which leaves them just fighting to get a “piece of the rock”. Wasn’t that the slogan used by prudential insurance in the 80′s? And we have adopted this as our national slogan for future relevance.
I hear us speaking about CBC, C&W, The Nation, The Advocate, The Lawyers, The Judges, The Police, The Airport (which we better ALL not pay one damn cent of an increase to pay for the millions they put into the improvements of that place, they already got the money from gov’t taxing our behinds, and a bunch of someones got new houses and now they want us to give it back to them again forevermore) and so on, yet we dont stand up for ourselves.
In a recent history lesson it came to my attention that from the days of Bussa we had a small revolt. It was crushed, slavery was done away with (i dare not say abolished as we are still slaves just minus physical shackles) we were put to work, a militia came about and from that our very dear Grantley Adams came to lead us into this future. Which then gave us the National Party and the Labour Party who were owned by the same slave owners, now sitting in the background with their puppets (the mottleys, millers and so on) doing their deeds. The outcome = The BLP with the Owens, Millers, Mottleys, Symmonds and so forth inheriting the same marching orders as their predecessors who continue to accept a few plots of land, a nice bank account, a business on the side and a position in gov’t (i.e a free pass to do whatever makes them happy in this land and one permanent stay of of jail card) to do this work.
The “rest” of us (this means those who are not family to the society elites and do not benefit in any way from their inheritance) continue to drive the buses, work in the bank as tellers, serve our tables for dinner, take our orders at cheffette, drive our taxi’s (touchy one there) pack our groceries, pump our gas and in-between try to own a small business using the education that we have been granted (cuz its not free and it certainly isnt that educating). We have little say yet we are the “masses”.
My solution, simple. Free press = Free Minds, period. This is the only way. The Matrix film taught us about the mind of one who is not free. We now need to adopt, without the complexity, the method used to free the minds of bajans. This will call for an underground movement as we know “others” will try to infiltrate. Trust what i tell you though, this can be accomplished. It starts here, from here it needs wheels to get around. The engine has been started, the motor is running. It is well oiled, gassed up (dont even let me start on that, ok on pipe, exxon has a billion dollar profit and gas prices are skyrocketing. That one is simple, lets open up our minds here folks) and we are ready to roll. All those ready to move lets get this thing going.
I for one am ready to lead a charge. Look out for the ché bajan coming to a parish near you!
Che Bajan…like your comments. Please do not fall into the same category of all the others who say they will do and then not do.
Being ready to lead the charge is not the same as leading the charge.
Be clear of your intent because I for one am looking for you.
Che Bajan
Some may say you are cynical,but I say you are keeping it real.
Very refreshing twist to this analysis of bajan society.
I have also been saying for a long,long,time that we need to move beyond talking,because owen and his group could live with just talk.
However if you start to take public demonstrations and embaraas them in the eyes of their caricom counterparts and the international spectatores – re their mis management – then you will see how quickly positive change will be effected.
heh, you have a lot of comments here so I hope this goes noticed. it would be great to see an article about the island’s deaf community, and any issues hindering the deaf community’s ability to benefit from possible improvements.
Jupiter- (8.55 London Time post)
Must confess I haven’t read the above yet, real lengthy. But I did catch your name as I flashed by, to see that I am branded an apologist.
Well I thought I was an antagonist, or at worst a realist. But I guess among a pack of pitbulls, I come out as Mr Milquetoast.
I will now have to strain my eyeballs on all the above to see what dastardly corruption has been unearthed. That expose above CBC being able to put C&W out of biz was an eyeopener. It was shock enough that BL&P could do the same.
I still find it hard to accept Sir A as being hand-in-glove with the Dark Side. On a small island it’s Conflict of Interest every time you turn round.
PS to Jupiter-
OK I am awake now, and see the ancient date on your “apologist” comment. Our planet has sped far thru the cosmos since then. But I missed it at the time.
You are entirely right that it is only visible demonstrations, placards and all, that will get any real response. Here we all are churning out pearls of wisdom unwilling to admit they are futile (unless Lynette takes notes)
I will walk the streets for Graeme Hall National Park, and against Greenland Rubbish Dump (I refuse to dignify it with the euphemistic “Landfill”. But to demonstrate additionally against all the other worthy causes is beyond my energies. One crusade at a time is all I can manage.
When was the last real demonstration/march in this country? Probably the one up at Cave Hill Campus some years back. And remember what happened then? Instant hostile response from the authorities. Students (mostly female) dragged away by armed Task Force cops, a well-known lecturer (also female) arrested, along with many other similar acts of intimidation.
I don’t think it’s apathy that stops most of us speaking out openly against all the lies, injustices and hypocrisy we see around us. It’s fear of the consequences. And justifiable fear, too…
Tour ends with hotel attack
England physio robbed at knifepoint
February 12, 2007
The England squad were given a frightening send-off from Australia after masked men broke into their team hotel and robbed Dean Conway, the physio, at knife-point in Sydney.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the four balaclava-clad men entered the hotel at 4.15am on Monday morning, forced staff to the ground and demanded to know where the safes were. They then robbed Conway, who was taking a phonecall at the time, and took his mobile and money.
“It was a pretty scary affair,” said an England team spokesman. “Knives were produced and threats were made, but fortunately no one was badly hurt. It all happened quite quickly, from all accounts, and it took everyone by surprise. It’s probably a good thing that most of them are heading home today.”
The five others who witnessed the attack were Andrew Strauss, analyst Mike Garaway, coaches Matthew Maynard and Kevin Shine plus security officer Reg Dickason. They escaped to another room.
And they want to warn tourist about travel to the caribbean
http://www.nationnews.com/story/304172768889319.php
It is stunning to hear a minister of Government supporting the building of wood houses.
Has he ever heard of hurricanes?
Prehaps he will show true leadership and live in a wood house.
I wish Barbados never gets hit by a hurricane again but we all know that it is likely to happen.
What is wrong with building an 800 sq. ft. concrete block house?
Good questions, Hants….!!!
Bigger QUESTIONS….who supplies the wood….???
Maybe if WE get the answer to THAT….then we will UNDERSTAND…the Economics of it……or SHOULD that be…..the Election Campaign Finance…of it….???
Hants when you analyse who are the BLP candidates and likely BACKERS in the St. Philip area…..and read today’s nation where these wooden homes were unveiled….St. Philip….!!…then let us begin to solve this MYSTERY together….
By…GEORGE…(Griffith)….WOOD…(Anthony)…in the EAST(MOND)…MARSHALL ( Trading)….the troops…..to SEALE ( David)…the BLP fate there….??
Hants, simply put in OLDE English my friend, the statement should read like this….
” By George, Wood ??? Anthony and East(mond) Marshall the troops to Seale the BLP fate in St. Philip come next General Election….??? ”
But to USE BLP electioneering tactics, THOSE same WORDS…..would APPEAR like this……
” Can Marshall and Seale get George, Wood and Eastmond OVER the line in St. Philip…..??? ”
Hants,….Wood you BELIEVE….East (mond) was there…….to see the houses….UNVEILED…..???
Interesting comments Hants and Jerome. The Barbados Labour Party’s programme as unveiled in St. Philip recently is being spearheaded by the same individual who railed against the Liz Thompson initiated wooden starter home project, which had such names as bumblebee, ladybird, etc. He (Clyde Mascoll) is now the leading proponent of wooden housing stock in Barbados. Of course you are right, initiatives such as these give someone the opportunity to become rich, while at the same time providing sub standard housing solutions to the poor, working and lower middle class in Barbados.
We are at a stage of mass producing wooden houses which will have no distinctive features. People must live in the same common, baseless squeezed up house, that the planners of the project will not ever live in.
It is the type of opportunistic policies that the Barbados Labour Party is pursuing. They have become crude and unsympathetic to the needs of the poor. They are the prefect smoke and mirrors crowd. They do not care about hurricanes or other natural disasters, they have the Catastrophe Fund to help out when the houses get destroyed. Do not mind that other in Barbados have to pay to maintain this fund. The Barbados Labour Party is at is mischievous best in these exercises. Lord help us.
Outside of your current topice there are some questions that perhaps your organization can make public:
1)- how much was the cost to build the NEW DRAW bridge ? (excluding other decoratings)
2)- Will it be actually opened up to the DRIVING Public? if it is to be opened then WHEN will this be?
3)- The “Arc-de triamph” at the beginning (head) of the bridge….. How much did that Cost ? and wasen’t it more economic to have spent that money in RESTORING the bridge itself?
4)- I ask these questions because initially I’d thought that the bridge was to be opened in July 2007, Then when it wasn’t I’d assumed that they were waiting for Barrow Day, but then I realized that Christmas would soon pass and still NO Open Bridge to vehicles. Finallw Barrow’s day has come & gone and….. STILL no Vehicles on the bridge. Well today MTW (or whoever) is PAINTING the WHITE ROAD MARKS in the area and the road signs indicate that the traffic will remain unchanged from the previous days, months and years.. This Bridge has been closed for over twelve years….. and traffic conjestion in the city continues to be problematic.
The above was to be July 2006 followed by Independance day .. to christmas then onto Barrow day
What should healthcare be like?
Just found a site about hospital based healthcare. I have quoted the Feb 5 post.
http://www.hospitalimpact.org/
“No one is a number
February 5th, 2007
by Nick Jacobs
The hospital is full. There was one, male bed available today in the entire hospital, one. The emergency room has been packed this week-end, and each and every employee has been pushed to the maximum to continue to provide Planetree quality care to our patients and their families. We have not had any respiratory influenza this fall or winter, until yesterday, but it was only one case. This may be a preview of the next several weeks.
As we made rounds this morning, department by department, it was clear that we were dealing with the “A” Team. It was like observing the insides of a well-oiled machine. We contacted dietary and had their parent company deliver hundreds of large cookies that we personally distributed through the hospital to the employees to thank them for doing a great job.
We watched each department and each floor to ensure that we had appropriate coverage, and every patient and family member with whom we came in contact were queried as to their care, their feelings about their care, and how we could assist them.
After going home we continued to call in throughout the evening to check on the status of the medical center and our employees.
It worked today because we love our employees. We care about them, and we don’t hesitate to let them know. No one is taken for granted. No one is a number. Everyone of them can feel it, and understand that it is real.
It’s taken me a lifetime to get here and a lifetime to have the opportunity to prove that raising your voice, being dictatorial, tramping on people to get what you want, and causing people to shake and hate is NOT the way it needs to be. It’s about “Doing unto others as you would have others do unto you.” It’s about working together for common goals. It’s about caring for the people who do the job because they will take care of the people who need the care. That’s what health care could be. That’s what health care should be!”
Can anyone explain to me why an “airport development tax” has now been added to LIAT airline tickets when travelling to/from Barbados which seems to have been instituted over the past few weeks? Between the ever-increasing airfare since the decidedly murky and not-all-together consumer friendly merger between LIAT and Caribbean Star, and the addition of one tax after another the ‘joys’ of intra-Caribbean travel are now becoming a thing of the past.
Janelle-
I fully agree with what you say, but I am rather surprised that you add it to an ancient post like this.
What you say is particularly relevant while CWC is on. Perhaps what you say would be better there?
Im here mad as hell!! Upto today I thought I had grate credit. Untill my sister told me that she had a 8 rating and she did not know what that mean.
So she went to CCB (Caribbean Credit Bureau) and found out about this 8. She had an 8rating for overdue of $10 on 2 vido tapes 7 years a go.
I went and found out about mine too.
I had 4-1 ratings and 1-8; you see credit rating goes from 1 to 9, 1 is excellent and 9 is very,very BAD rating. My 8 was also for overdue, $71 for vido tapes from 7 years ago at Chubbys. And could you beleave the were going to take me to court in a few mouths!!!
I HAVE BAD CREDIT!! They could not even send me a litter, email, phone call 4,5,6 years ago!!! Letting me know I have $71 for that and they r sending me to the CCB??
I found out if I wanted to get a lone or morage I would have not get is becouse of $71 !! To top it off I went to Chubbys and had to deal with a person who did not give a RAT’s Tail about you or what they are doing to you!
I saw the list of people who have from $2-$100 overdue for 7 years. They are doing this to y0u with out a thought!! and you do not even know. You may think $15 is a lot but go and get to CCB and find out about your credit!
Janie Yarde
This is very important info you are giving here.
To think that one company could ruin someone’s reputation without this credit check operation or banks etc rechecking to see if the info is correct – appalls me.
These fly by night credit rating companies needs to be sued.
Janie I hope that you send this info to David Ellis of VOB and Roy Morris of the Nation newspaper.
Shame,shame,this needs looking to.
That people could have their name dragged in the mud for $2.00 overdue fees.
This (the power to destroy a person’s credit rating without their knowledge) must surely fall within Senator Lynette’s area of responsibility, and should be brought to her attention.
BFP- Is there any way you can send a copy of Janie Yarde’s complaint to Sen. Eastmond’s post (Government Minister Lynette Eastmond Volunteers…), in case she does not see it here?
Financial companies in Barbados and specifically banks do not factor ratings over five years.
Whether it’s 5 years or 2 years,no one should have their credit rating lowered on such flismy grounds.
Further I have heard of companies like DacostaMannings and others in the retail trade who are influenced by credicheck operations which reduce credit ratings for late payments.
This is really a third world banana republic.
Lynette eastmond is too busy being on the centerfold of tne nation and dressing up and going to every function and spouting hot air as usual.
David Thompson spoke about ronald Toppin’s work on anti – fair trading practices,interlocking directorship etc that was not followed through by lynette eastmond despite all the old talk and the ‘cud dear’ speeches.
To chair –
all yours from 9.30 am on Tuesday at the place where nobody answered yesterday when you checked.
NOT the place where you found somebody napping. Too much traffic.
Please confirm.
table – thank you for the two drinks of water and the offer of a beer that I didn’t take.
See you tuesday
Shall I bring a place mat to put on the table?
Just kidding folks.
A lil harmless ‘after lunch’ fun.
Sounds like something hot coming up boy.
whopee.
Could you please add to your list of Posts the vital subject of the environment, illegal dumping and pollution?
Who is Felix Broome/Felix Broome Inc.? What does he do?
You asked who is Felix Broomes?
Why don’t you tell us – since you obviously know.
Jupiter, I said Broome, you said Broomes!
Was that a slip or are they one and the same?
Where does Felix Broome/s live?
?, So what is it that you are trying to find out?
To the best of my knowledge Felix Broome has a stake in the hotel that used to be Welcome Inn on Maxwell Coast Road. I think it is now called Barbados Beach Club.
Apparently there were some health issues with the hotel in the past but those were resolved.
He also has an interest in prime real estate in other locations.
Anyone has the pow-wow between Mr. After and Mr. Thompy in a mp3 or media file that we can have access to.
To chair-
Please confirm Friday breakfast as arranged at the time specified and same place.
Eggs have been laid today fresh – Perfect for scrambling.
Cannot come as early as planned. Can come 1 hour later on Friday. Sunday would be better, but not sure how it would be for you.
I could not phone today as planned. Sorry.
Sunday is good.
Same way as Friday?
May be able to get more fresh eggs by then.
In the light of Lynch’s (or is it Mugabe?) heavy-handed tactics, it is like a breath of fresh air to have the BFP where we can air our views. Many thanks for that, BFP. Letters to the Press don’t cut it any more because only certain people can get their letters published. Ignore Censorship, BFP, he/she has a problem with self and the world in general. Long may you last!
True Native
I have written letters to both papers in the last couple of years and the only one that published anything was the Advocate. I have even written to the Editor of the Nation and have had no reply and that was 11 months ago.
I sent a letter critizing Bizzy Williams and the development of certain areas, but that was not published. I guess the old saying money talks
Hi table
Yes, Sunday would be the best – with the same arrangements as Friday.
If we have more eggs that is great. My friend and I will see you on Sunday.
mmmmmmm cookies!
Yes, Hilford Murrell is his name.
The song is late as usual, but is still playing.
I too luv dis cloak and dagger stuff.
It’s de sorta ting does remin’ yuh of cowboy an’ indians,or de famous five in yuh yute days.
Heh,heh.
Sweet fuh days den.
Sorry if I got a bit out of line today. Got a bit carried away. (Not on Mount Gay sunblock though!). You were right to censor me.
Anybody heard anything further on the brown guk which stopped people from swimming at Gibbs Beach today?
Why would faeces be in the sea and so close to the shore?
Could it be these private yachts dumping their waste there instead off carlisle bay as we were earlier reporting?
Shouldn’t the ministry of health give some public warning and speak to the country on the matter.
Out Dey In Bim
Was it faeces or something else?
Apparently there was a lot of it whatever it was.
… and the radio said it smelled pretty bad.
And the 700 yachts and 28 cruise ships haven’t taken up station yet!
… or have they?
John…..please ask Blaring Barney……!!!
Today’s paper says it was algae.
There were two sets, one smelt bad, the other didn’t.
Not sure if I read the paper right but it sounds as though they tested the one that didn’t smell bad before they reaced their conclusion that both were algae.
Of course they were in two locations. … and then there were jellyfish.
Somebody read the article and tell me if I read it wrong. Recently the pressure got me missing things and assuming things I read.
Suppose that’s because I just look through and don’t read!!
Hey, Folks!
Listen up! As I write this, there is a programme on BBC World TV on the slave trade in Barbados. Don’t brek yuh nek to get to the TV! Cheers.
The Nation online editon is very late today.
Well first of all I am dismayed
dejected
disilusioned
disheartened
and distressed at the dismal display of the WI team today. Am I from a different generation that remembers WI cricket when it had some guts and pride? Then the Islands each had their own individual flag but had one thing in common that gave them some semblance of unity and that was the Union Flag in the top right hand corner. Nowadays in their headlong rush for power I feel the politicians have been quite successful in creating their own little individual kingdoms, tiny little fiefdoms who insist on having their own diplomatic CD plated Mercedes as they run around a few hundred square miles of a limestone island while old ladies limp up hill with a meager bag of groceries. The fact is these same politicians have succeeded in dividing a wonderful people into “national” factions who are no longer able to function as a team. They have succeeded in erasing the “West Indies” as an entity.
As a frequent caller to ” Tell It Like It Is” on V.O.B. I am peeved at the fact that Minister Lynch ,after calling the program time and again in exhibition of his usual rantings where one could not get him to shut up, had a whole program to himself ,where he made an appearance as Minister of the people, walked out, and still has the ability to speak on the behalf of the same people he disrespected . What a shame. His act of recalcitrance supersedes the one for which Liz Thompson was punished.
Small editorial comment, suggesting you correct “Scoll down” to “Scroll down”. The blog is good so detractors need less ammunition.
Thanks New Reader
Fixed!
george
I seem to remember Owen Seymore Arthur quoting Marcus Garvey and making reference to Bob Marley,while speaking in the halls of Parliament. Images of Policemen being patted down by those who can clearly be seen as interlopers represent the single most obsequious occurrence in post independent Barbados, all under the stewardship of this Great Pan African Giant. The movement of heaven and earth is one thing, but sovereignty had since 1966 is another.
******************************
Comment by BFP george
“Images of Policemen being patted down by those who can clearly be seen as interlopers represent the single most obsequious occurrence in post independent Barbados”
… Not a bad bit of imagery yourself Mr. Hill… even if I had to look up “obsequious”
george
Marcus, Robert, Cliverton and Shona:
I really have to congratulate you for providing us with this most enlightening and educational site. I think I see the occasional frown on your faces, but mostly I think I see the amusement. Right now, I here busting muh belly wid standpipe laugh at some of the posts I seen here tonight. I laughing all de way to muh bed. On a more serious note, Ian Bourne complained last night about the painfully slow Internet connection on ADSL, and I was having the same problem. Someone said I was being “hacked”. So I checked, and yep, someone tried, but couldn’t get through my firewall. I still laughing all like now at who de body was! Have a good night.
http://www.nationnews.com/story/288816830560126.php
I thought they said there were 80 BMWs. Now we are hearing 65.
mmmmm
Nation News does damage control for ruling party.
No TV license to Starcom!
No TV license to the private sector!
With total disbelief I read that the US had freed Posada Carilles on bond. This is so typical of the present adminstration in Washington. What I ask is the difference between Carilles and the 911 attackers. The answer is simple, it’s cool to kill anyone providing that they are not Americans. Bush keeps hundreds in Guantanmo without charge but gives freedom to a man who has been tried and convicted for terrorism and why because the Cubans in Miami,who had to run because of their corruptness when the revolution came or otherwise face possible incarceration for their support of the old American backed regime are the ones who put Bush back in power. This is a sad world, this is a sad time for America.
DEMs 30 years behind!!
The DLP recently promised to include women in their cabinet if elected as the government in the next general elections.
In 1999 and 2003, the current Leader of the DLP was also the Leader of that Party in the last two general elections when a number of well educated women would have faced the polls on a DLP ticket under his leadership. I urge Barbadians to take note of how many of these women currently sit in the Senate.
As a young female I would like to remind Mr. Thompson that the DLP is 30 years behind the BLP when it comes to putting woman in prominent leadership positions, not only in the political arena but within their professional environment.
Maria
April 17th, 2007 at 3:27 pm
DEMs 30 years behind!!
The DLP recently promised to include women in their cabinet if elected as the government in the next general elections.
In 1999 and 2003, the current Leader of the DLP was also the Leader of that Party in the last two general elections when a number of well educated women would have faced the polls on a DLP ticket under his leadership. I urge Barbadians to take note of how many of these women currently sit in the Senate.
As a young female I would like to remind Mr. Thompson that the DLP is 30 years behind the BLP when it comes to putting woman in prominent leadership positions, not only in the political arena but within their professional environment.
***********************************************
Maria,
Welcome to the debate .
1. **** As an opposition party the DLP only has 2 spots in the Senate.
2. **** Mascoll’s wife , Cyrallene Thomas sat in the Senate under…..David Thompson leadership..!
3. **** Clyde Mascoll as leader of the DLP opposition placed no women in the Senate..!
4. **** The BLP has 4 women in the House of Assembly and 1 woman in the Senate..!
Maria…tell us which one of them spoke up for women in the Barbados industries & society :
a. *** Minimum wage…! ( think Harbour Rd / Newton park )
b. *** Sexual harrasment Rights..! ( think about those who served under Tom Adams 30 years ago)
c. *** Improvement in healthcare…! ( think QEH )
d. *** Owen Policy on women..! ( think why one
” woman ” in parliament congratulated him on his second wedding )
There is one woman on the BLP side and in the Senate who said in 2003 :
” There is no need for an opposition party in Barbados ”
Maria,
Was this Senator educated in ZIMBABWE…?
You need to clean out the BLP house first…Maria…!
Don’t forget Senator Gertz Eastmond and Masie Barker-Welch in the eighties. Maria is perhaps too young to know about this.
Jerome,
You have a good point in relation to the BLP women taking up issues relating to females. As a matter of fact one of these women can perhaps be regarded as a danger to females in many ways. Is Maria aware of this?
Yes Maria:
I agree with you , Mr Thompson is not concerned with the composition of any cabinet he may form. He is only concerned with dividing the fatted calf !!
To Jerome, let me say thank you for welcoming me to the debate as I look forward to the dialogue.
However, I would appreciate it if you do not try to patronise me with statements such as “…..Maria is perhaps too young to know about this.”
Why did you seek it necessary to go back to the eighties by mentioning Mrs. Mazie Barker-Welch and ressurrecting the late Gertz Eastmond? Am I to conclude that is because the history of the DLP limits you to call the names of other females?
You made mention of Cyrillene Thomas-Mascoll, I am somewhat confused why you made reference to the fact that she is Clyde Mascoll’s wife. Did you make that correlation to state that she would not have sat in the Senate had she not been his wife?
Why it is that she did not last the full duration of her tenure as a Senator or make any contributions for the representation of women? How many persons (besides members and supporters of the DLP) can recall that she was a Senator?
Did David Thompson treat her the same way he treated Mascoll because of her gender or because she came from a working class background?
Maria,
You are new to the BFP site, but you need to pay careful attention to who said what !
I did not mention anything about Mazie Barker or Gertz Eastmond…two DLP Icons !
Nor did I say anything about you being too young..!
Revisit the postings above…!
Why are you scared of the 80′s when it is you who spoke about 30 years ago…which is the 70′s…?
Ah, I just remember, 30 years ago was the reign of the terrible Tom of BLP fame who had a proclivity towards women..!
Maria, is there more you want to tell us about the reign of Tom 30 years ago…?
On the Clyde Mascoll family…check who said some of the most uncharitable things about him and his family…!
For some assistance :
Ask Rommell Marshall…!
Ask Billie Miller…!
Ask Anthony Wood…!
Ask Owen Arthur…!
Last but not least..Ask Maria..she says Mascoll & his wife comes from a working class background….!
Hence, that is why the BLP members said what they said about him & his family…!
Good night Maria,
Do visit BFP again..!
Maria don’t mind Jerome he spends the day trying to get his foot out of his mouth.
??
April 17th, 2007 at 8:58 pm
Maria don’t mind Jerome he spends the day trying to get his foot out of his mouth.
**********************************************
?? Question Mark,
Wrong again, that is the problem you, Maria and the BLP have to deal with…!
You, are in the dock of public scrutiny…!
The jury out here do not like what there are seeing & hearing…!
Maria,
It seems as though you don’t understand what it is you are writing.
You stated “As a young female I would like to remind Mr. Thompson that the DLP is 30 years behind the BLP when it comes to putting woman in prominent leadership positions, not only in the political arena but within their professional environment.”
In response to that I gave two examples of females which the DLP included in prominent positions. If you knew this for a fact you would not have made such an idiotic statement.
Let us deal with fact. Have you been able to benefit as a woman as a direct result of Billie Miller, Mia, Liz etc being included in prominent positions in the DLP.Can you point out any laws piloted by any of these women which sought to improve the welfare of females in Barbados. Stop the emotional outburst and give me the facts!
Jerome Hinds
Thanks for reminding me about GTom. This is direct bevidence of the disrespect BLP Leaders have for women with the likes of Tom who used to beat women all over the place
I can remember one woman Tom beat badly because of Louis Tull,… ask Dame Miller what she had to do with Bolden, and ask wuk for wuk Clarke who has no respect whatsoever for women ….how many poor women in need of housing that he has exploited sexually, and Owen who obviously know nothing about repecting women who bragged about not being the marrying type at the same time having 5 women….
and what about Mia ….tell us about how she treats other women…is she perhaps your role model
Tom also broke his wife’s arm. How’s that for BLP treatment of women.
No Name: I think that before you make your comments you should arm yourself with the facts ,indeed your comments are at best a grave mis-statement of the truth , I want to remind you of the many pieces of legislation passed under the various BLP governments which have directly and/or indirectly improved not only the lives of Barbadian women but all Barbadians in general, such pieces of revolutionary legislation as the Tenantries Freehold Purchase Act;The Stauts of Children Reform Act just to point out a few to you. Indeed at that time Dame Bille Millar was a member of the BLP as well as a Cabinet Member who was the chief archiect of the Barbados Drug Service, yet another programme which benefitted all Barbadians…so please state the facts and be not blinded by political affilations
No – Name & True Native,
I have the distinct belief that Maria’s romanticising about this ” 30 year Syndrome ” has to do with her
” contact ” with Teribble Tom of BLP fame during the 1970′s…!
She is using this BFP site to see if we really know who she is and what she did……!
Read her words carefully….!
There was also Antoinnette Thompson. The girls does not know what she is talking about, She must be a female RR in the making.
Jerome, you trying to say that she is the woman that got the world believing she is a lady, when in fact her mouth could get more stink than a fishmonger own? Steer muh in de right direction, nuh?
I am not surprised that my comments have taken the direction it has, because the DLP has a reputation of attacking people and not the issues at hand.
Instead of attacking the policies you have taken the route of attacking me and the integrity of the late and current members of the great Party called the Barbados Labour Party. That is because you cannot find anything to criticise about the policies hence why the DLP has to practice politics personal attacking.
Thomas Moore
What pray tell me have I said that was not true? Where did I say or imply that “various BLP governments have directly and/or indirectly improved not only the lives of Barbadian women but all Barbadians in general?”
You obviously have problems understanding simple statements.
I was speaking specifically about the current crop of females and I asked whether or not she (Maria/Mia) had been able to benefit as a woman as a direct result of Billie Miller, Mia, Liz etc being included in prominent positions in the DLP. Can you point out any laws piloted by any of these women which sought to improve the welfare of females in Barbados.
Stop the emotional outburst and give me the facts!
I was speaking about issues that directly impact females not general issues like drugs etc. I zeroed in in women issues because I want to suggest that even though these women have been prominent in the BLP they have not fought for and piloted bills specifically aimed at improving females.
Now Thomas/Maria give me the list of such bills.
List the benefits that other women have derived.
No Name, you keep proving that you are not informed politically.
Neither Dame Bille Miller, Mia or Liz are prominent women in the DLP. How dare you make sure a mistake, if either of them were in the DLP they would not be allowed such an opportunity to be outstanding. They would be making mauby and frying fish cakes when the DEMs have one of their Friday Lunch Time Lectures as opposed to representing Barbados at the macro level.
Undine Whittaker, a candidate for the DLP in 2003 and in the next general elections stated publicty that women are not respected in the DLP.
Maria
April 18th, 2007 at 5:17 am
No Name, you keep proving that you are not informed politically.
Neither Dame Bille Miller, Mia or Liz are prominent women in the DLP. How dare you make sure a mistake, if either of them were in the DLP they would not be allowed such an opportunity to be outstanding. They would be making mauby and frying fish cakes when the DEMs have one of their Friday Lunch Time Lectures as opposed to representing Barbados at the macro level.
Undine Whittaker, a candidate for the DLP in 2003 and in the next general elections stated publicty that women are not respected in the DLP.
************************************************
Maria
And Rawle Eastmond stated publicly that ” Diabolical Forces ” holding the BLP….!
Thomas, Jerome, No-Name, True Native when are you all going to answer the initial question posed?
Where does the DLP stand in relation to women sitting in cabinet and the senate? what does it have to show for it? How does Thompson feel about it?
I would like to know from one of you since you seem so well versed.
Yam P][e:
Since you mentioned my blog name I will reply by telling you that I am a mere supporter of the DLP – not on any of their councils – so I can’t speak for them. What I will say is that I agree that previously the DLP did not have a good track record with regards to women, but it was noticeable that when David Thompson became President (before he unfortunately let that idiotic imposter take over the reins) he acted to rectify that impression of the DLP. He obviously can’t include women in a “cabinet” right now because he doesn’t HAVE a cabinet! Please note these are only my observations. The others you mentioned will have to speak for themselves.
I will like to thank Barbados Free Press for the opportunity to post comments on their site i try posting a comment on the DLP Blog 3 days ago, and all i am getting is your comments is awaiting moderation. All i ask the party was if any of the $3 Million that David Thompson want for the Election will be coming from Syria.
Yam P][e,
David Thompson is all for women in Cabinet & the senate.
He has demonstrated this while he was opposition leader with the appointment of Ms. Cyrillene Thomas & the late Ms. Antoinette Thompson to the Senate.
Note that Clyde Mascoll who once led the DLP did emulate this wonderful trend…!
While being appionted as the youngest Minister of Youth & Community development in 1991 / 1992 he was very instrumental in getting the women in the Community Development appointed to the Public Service. He also was responsible for the competent & qualified Ms. Joan Glasgow moving up to a senior position with the Community Development dept.
I am sure you would recognise that more women are candidates or involved in the party affairs now that David Thompson is at the helm.
No doubt once given the reins of gov’t this high profiling of women will continue.
On the campaign trail he has already said that Dr. Esther Byer – Suckoo would play a pivotal role in a future DLP cabinet.
Jerome, I am very pleased that you have mention “…he has already said that Dr. Esther Byer – Suckoo would play a pivotal role in a future DLP cabinet.”
Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo will be facing the polls for the first time in the next general elections. What has she done to deserve such treatment as opposed to Undene Whittaker who will be contesting a second election for the DLP, also who in 2003 resigned from her teaching profession to be a canidate for the said DLP? Is this how the DLP says “thank you” to its longstanding members, esp. females?
In 1999, Yvonne Walkes faced the polls on a DLP ticket, why it is that Cyrillene Thomas-Mascoll was appoint to the Senate as opposed to Mrs. Walkes?
In 2003, Undene Whittaker, Marlyn Rice-Bowen, Jean Chase-Sealy and Patsie Nurse were all DLP candidates,why is it that none of them were appointed to the Senate?
Why is it that with the exception of Undene Whittaker, all of the other female candiates who contested in 2003 on a DLP ticket were repalced by men?
In February, David Thompson and the female candidates travelled toNew York to attended a DLP function. Notabaly, Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo was the only person besides David Thompson who was allowed to address the guest. What message is he sending to the other candiates?
Maria,
I will respond to you paragraph by paragraph.
Para. 1
Undene Whittaker is teaching again and with her experience she would be an invaluable asset within the Ministry of Education.
Para. 2
Yvonne Walkes took the personal decision to allow a younger woman, Cyrillene Thomas , to contribute to the Senate & development of Barbados.
Para. 3
Only Clyde Mascoll, the then Opposition leader in 2003, can answer that one. Such appointments are made by the opposition leader in consultation with the candidates.
Para. 4
The DLP is still a democratic party and will always be. The branch councils are the ones who select their prospective candidates – be it male or female.
Para. 5
Check your facts again, Tony Best in March 2007 writing in the Nation news reported that the 4 DLP female candidates addressed their audiences at different times in NY.
Maria,
I asked you already what has the 4 women in the BLP done for the cause of Women in Barbados ?
I will help you with some suggestions :
1. *** Women in need of houses – Liz Thompson promises LESS than $50,000.00 houses in the NHC yard——She built NONE !
2. **** Women in the fishing industry want a fishing agreement with T & T – Mia Mottley tek $ 11 million of taxpayers money —- No fishing agreement !
3. *** Women in Millenium Heights CRYING out for help —– Cynthia Forde in Sunday Sun of 2007 – 04 – 22 says protect women now that 2 died in mysterious circumstances !
4. *** Women in barbados concern about BLP governance practices —– Lynette Eastmond in 2003 says there is no need for an opposition party !
The 4 BLP women are in the dock of scrutiny just like their male counterparts !
Dear Motherb,
Such an apt name for someone who is crying all the time. The DLP blog does not have time for foolish individuals who cannot respect the opinion of others, particularly persons like you who feel they have an almighty right to engage in diatribe. Has Taan Abed so ruffled your petulant feathers that you would want to suggest blatant nonsense. Try and grow up.
Maria,
In order to make points you should not misrepresent the truth. Were you in New York or did Tony Best and Jessica Odle give misinformation for BLP propaganda purposes? Get your facts and come back and be honest regarding who spoke or was “allowed” to speak.
Instead of nitpicking with half truths, let me hear you measure up Liz, Mia, Billie and Cynthia to Undene Whittaker, Irene Sandiford-Garner, Esther Byer-Suckoo and Patrician Inniss.Then tell us honestly, woman for woman who has the female candidates of moral fibre, character, familial integrity (e.g. the newly-found BLP mantra of family values), intelligence, the ability to articulate, educational background and proven leadership ability, and if we want to be frivolous, last and least important of all, looks. Measure each one Ms. Maria and come again.
at the end of the day the women in the blp engage in corruption and have robbed our country blind. the legacy they leave is a negative one for all barbadians including women. i wouldnt want to boast about blp women and gender equality if the women in power are just as bad as the men!
Dear True Native and Jerome hinds,
Thanks for your responses.
I am just trying to gather my thoughts on how the dlp is operating these days.
True Native- you mentioned “but it was noticeable that when David Thompson became President (before he unfortunately let that idiotic imposter take over the reins) he acted to rectify that impression of the DLP.”
- is that what he was seeking to do, just to rectify the impression?
- are you suggesting that Mr. Mascoll trailed along a different path as it related to women in the party?
so when, in your words, the “imposter” took over and sought to actually construct deeply embedded change, there was a problem?
Because when Jerome hinds responded, he said that Mr. Mascoll also continued along such a path to include women.
This is all quite confusing to someone who is trying to grasp what the DLP is about in 2007, and there still seems to be conflicting messages.
The BLP seems to have kept quite competent women in place, and this is strikingly impressive as it relates to the ad hoc manner in which women in the DLP are treated. Perhaps a female candidate for the DLP can respond; as I understand even female members of the BLP take the time to post sensible reponses.
~ just trying to understand.
Yam P][e
what is so competent about corruption or condoning it? the blp has engaged in corruption on a level never before seen in barbados and the blp women are prominent members of the party. they have all shown themselves to be just as corrupt as the men in the party and have been at the forefront of ruining barbados.
i dont care whether it is a man or a woman. i care about what they do. if they are corrupt then they are useless. so what if the blp has actively promoted women in its party. they have made no difference. they engage in or condone the corruption. tell the poor woman barely surviving and struggling to feed her children about women in the blp. her children are suffering because the blp is destroying the country. the blp that proudly boasts of how much they promote women’s rights.
Jerome
The DLP is only democratic in name not in pratice.
Do you call selected, de-selected,then Thompson-selected democratic? As was the case with the candidate “selection process”.
maria is like lynetter. skirt around and dodge the real issues and focus on the peripheral. address the fact that the women in the blp have through their corrution and/or condoning of corruption made the social and economic situation of women in barbados worse.
Maria,
After all your diatribe you still have not given me the list of bills piloted by these model BLP Cabinet members that relate specifically to the development of women. Also don’t forget to tell us about how females such as yourself have benefited as a result of Mia, Liz, Billie and the others.
Maria, you have blithely ignored my challenge. Answer the queries. And Yam whatever, please define “competent”.
Yam P][e: [The damn brackets are annoying me]
I did not say that David Thompson SOUGHT to rectify the impression. I said he ACTED to do so. Secondly, the bracketed remark about Mascoll was simply an aside – nothing more, nothing less. In my opinion Mascoll’s behaviour at times was idiotic (“I” this and “I” that. “I take the credit for this.” The Great I Am.) He who exalts himself shall be humbled.
Imposter? Of course. He was in cahoots with Owing and that crowd behind the backs of his comrades. That is unforgivable disloyalty. I stated from the outset (and I have witnesses) that the DLP would regret the day that man became President. I hope this clears up some of your confusion. Please note once again, this is MY opinion – I don’t speak on behalf of the DLP.
Maria
April 22nd, 2007 at 8:45 pm
Jerome
The DLP is only democratic in name not in pratice.
Do you call selected, de-selected,then Thompson-selected democratic? As was the case with the candidate “selection process”.
************************************************
Maria,
That is democracy at work !
It is far better than what Owen Arthur try do to get Kerrie Symonds fill Sir Henry’s constituency !
Obviously you would choose to forget that !
Just as you would forget how took Jessica Odle, William Duguid & kerrie Symonds were invited to Ilaro Court by Owen & a GAG order placed on them because of that candidate selection fiasco !
Yam P][e
Thanks for the correction my post on April 21st, 2007 at 1:16 pm that you referred to did reflect:
" Note that Clyde Mascoll who once led the DLP did emulate this wonderful trend…! "
The correct posting should have been :
" Note that Clyde Mascoll who once led the DLP did NOT emulate this wonderful trend…! "
In my subsequent post in response to Maria, I repeated my argument that Clyde Mascoll as leader of the DLP did not openly elevated women like Mr. David Thompson did / does .
My section of that post is reproduced below :
" Jerome Hinds
April 22nd, 2007 at 7:31 pm
Para. 3
Only Clyde Mascoll, the then Opposition leader in 2003, can answer that one. Such appointments are made by the opposition leader in consultation with the candidates. "
Yam P][e
The gist of my argument is that under Clyde Mascoll many women in the DLP felt left out. Undine Whittaker public disclosure of this is well documented.
But we are yet to hear the BLP women speak up for Bajan women in particular.
No comment from them about minimum wage - which affect women predominantly !
No solidarity with the womenfolk in Emmerton !
No solidarity with the women in gated communities e.g Millenium Heights !
Yam P][e
Time to clean out yuh eyes....too much yampie in them !
BFP,
It is one month to the date ( 23 rd March – 23 rd Arpril , 2007 ) since this ship was to set sail , since this aircraft was to take off…..!
All we have got instead is a lot promises , possibilities & perhaps….!
Since this money laundering prompter…
Carnival Destiny has come !
Air India has come !
Owen Arthur has re – appeared !
Brian Lara has disappeared !
and
The Money – Laundering story has YET to appear !
Cud dear !
http://www.nationnews.com/life/357186283977567.php
Interesting article
Hants
April 23rd, 2007 at 2:56 am
http://www.nationnews.com/life/357186283977567.php
Interesting article
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Hants,
Very timely.
A must read for the likes of yampie, maria, motherb & ??.
As for the latter ?? he adores Mascoll !
Not surprised….the BLP cursed Mascoll so much…now says the DEMS did not like him !
During his stewardship in the DLP which / Dem cursed him ?
I challenge yampie, maria, motherb & ?? to tell us WHO…!
Shameless loots…!
Maria,
Do you remember when:
Date April 18, 2006
Brief ‘Absolute waste’
by WADE GIBBONS
INSENSITIVE AND INAPPROPRIATE!
That’s how Opposition MP Michael Lashley has described Government’s plan to build a $400 000 beach facility at Browne’s Beach, Bay Street, St Michael.
On Sunday, Minister of the Environmen
by WADE GIBBONS
INSENSITIVE AND INAPPROPRIATE!
That’s how Opposition MP Michael Lashley has described Government’s plan to build a $400 000 beach facility at Browne’s Beach, Bay Street, St Michael.
On Sunday, Minister of the Environment, Elizabeth Thompson, announced the cost of the project would come close to that of the Silver Sands, Christ Church bath. That facility was the subject of controversy after its $432 000 cost was revealed in 2004.
The National Conservation Commission’s (NCC) general manager, Keith Neblett, whose office oversaw the construction then, blamed staff absenteeism and inefficiency as contributing to the high cost.
But Lashley told the DAILY NATION yesterday though he had no objections to the building of a beach facility, he had grave concerns about the high cost.
He said Government had admitted previously that the cost was too high and asked whether Thompson’s warning of possible contention, was an early attempt to diffuse concerns over another exorbitant exercise.
_______________________________
This is the level of Liz’s competence.
Maria,
…and don’t forget when Liz fooled the whole of Barbados by promising 7 000 house-hungry Barbadians by telling them they would get houses by Christmas.
How many houses did she in fact deliver?
With reference to the Wade Gibbons stories:
Please be advised that with the recent changes in the administration of the Nation Newspaper, it seems to have adopted a distasteful BLP agenda. Apart from stifling pro DLP information, they have shifted certain journalists. Wade Gibbons, the author of the stories listed above, in now on the SPORTS DESK!!!!
Maria-
Kindly respond to the challenge issued yesterday regarding how your females match up.
Dear fed up, cateyes,
My comments related to women in the BLP was about general competence, the ability to stand up to men in a predominantly male job role; and to be getting the job done; and not to speak about any specific contribution they each may have made to women.
- that would be what Maria is talking about.
On that point however, what about the work that is being done through the Bureau of Gender Affairs? Go ahead, say it “The Bureau of Women’s Affairs” so where does this leave womens issues in the hands of BLP? Worked on too hard to have gained such a name I would think?
Jerome hinds- so now you have been able to say what you supposedly really meant. where does that now put women as it relates to DLP (in the hands of D.T), perhaps some better versed authouriative figure of the DLP can speak to this?
My last point, why are you trying to make the female representatives/ Ministers of the BLP seem as if they hold the Ministry of Women? If they focus absolutely on women within each portfolio, they would be labelled as Feminists, and would have enetered the field of Sociology or Psychology.
-undoubtedly though by assisting other groups within society, women are elevated.
Just my thoughts…
Dear True Native,
If you are a true native, why do you have difficulty with yam pie? Anyhow that is besides the point.
“… but it was noticeable that when David Thompson became President…he acted to rectify that impression of the DLP…”
- My interception with your wording was to place emphasis on ‘impression’
“…I did not say that David Thompson SOUGHT to rectify the impression. I said he ACTED to do so… ”
- exactly, what he did was acted to rectify the IMPPRESSION, not being concerned with anything else.
Kind Regards.
My last point, why are you trying to make the female representatives/ Ministers of the BLP seem as if they hold the Ministry of Women?
**************************************************
Yam P][e,
Another attempt at your spin...a.k.a lies...!
There is no such Ministry in Barbados...Ministry of Women !
The question remains....what have the BLP women championed for the Women of Barbados....?
Where is their policy pronouncement on :
Greenland...?
Edutech....?
Fishing Agreement...?
NHC $ 50,000.00 houses...?
Millenium Heights.....?
Minimum Wage...?
Women on the Industrial Estates....?
Which one.....tell us Yam P][e....!
I have no problem with yam pie, kiddo. I love it. In fact, when mixed with spinach it is yummy! I have a problem with Yam P][e. But that’s irrelevant – maybe you’re an artist and like brackets and squiggles and things. Now to the word game. Ok, so we leave out IMPRESSION and SOUGHT and stick to ACTED. In layman’s language, and again – in my opinion – David Thompson selected (you got a problem with that?) a number of women in the Party and nominated them for positions of consequence in whatever field they were qualified to act in. That’s my final word, Yammie!
Dear True Native,
no problem at all- thanks !
Dear Jerome Hinds,
Re-read:
“why are you trying to make the female representatives/ Ministers of the BLP seem as if they hold the Ministry of Women?”
- Where did I say that a Ministry of Women exists again?
” Ministers of the BLP seem as if they hold the Ministry of Women?”
Yam P][e,
Re-read your words above !
Why would you ask such a question if you are not indicating that such a Ministry exists ?
You still have not shown what the BLP women have done !
We understand your difficulty !
Dear Jerom Hinds,
you selectively left off my first sentence:
“why are you TRYING to make the female representatives/ Ministers of the BLP seem AS IF they hold the ‘Ministry of Women’?”
-everyone knows there is no ‘Ministry of Women’.
I was not challenged to show what women in the BLP have done.
Kind Regards.
Yam P][e,
” I was not challenged to show what women in the BLP have done. ”
**************************************************
We understand….there is nothing to show !
What is your position on marijuana?
Last year when Mr. Arthur Holder, Attorney-at-Law expressed his interest in representing the people of St. Michael South Central as a Barbados Labour Party candidate, there was some discussion in the print media and the calling programmes as to his position on marijuana because of his locks.
As a voter I would like Ms. Undine Whittaker, who carries the same hair style as Mr. Holder and is facing the polls for a second time to state whether she is a practising Rastafarian.
BFP here is the link to an article about the influence of the blogs http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4649607.stm
Maria,
Since you’re asking the really important questions, why not also ask which of our ELECTED officials is a practising Christian alcoholic?
In 1997, the BLP Government introduced a number of relief measures.
One of the most notable is the provision of a $500 grant known as reverse tax credit for persons earning less than $13,000 per year.
The basic and marginal personal income tax rates have been reduced from 25% to 20% and from 40 % to 35% respectively. In addition, taxpayers have benefited from an increase in personal allowance from $15,000 in income year 2004 to the current level of $25,000 this income year.
This heroic far-reaching programme implemented by Owen Arthur, Minister of Finance has equated in over 26,000 Barbadians being taken off the tax roll.
(Source: Economic and Financial Policies of the Government of Barbados, Presented by the Rt. Hon Owen Arthur, March 14, 2007)
Maria are you a brainless parrot programmed to recite BLP propaganda or are you here to debate and defend the positions you posit? Why keep parroting propaganda instead of answering questions related to your fulminations? You hop, skip and jump from one topic to another without debating a single issue you raise. Is this the strategy they have programmed you to execute? Just drop a few PR pieces and run? Well use a male pseudonym please. I am sure the women on this site would not welcome a brainless jackass to their fold.
Ms. Mottley is not Rastafari, but it would be good for you in your next conversation with one of your programmers to see if you can summon the presence of mind to ask her views on marijuana as well.
And could you ask those of us taken off the tax roll if we are any better off given the fact that we can save very little due to the astronomical price of food. Astronomical prices which your heroic leader says he can do nothing about. He cannot help us eat.
Has there ever been physical altercations between top officals of any of the political parties, in the presence of other members of said political parties? Inquiring minds want to know.
Recently I received a letter from a Bajan friend living in London. She and family, although doing well financially in London, are coming home. The reason? She is terrified that Britain (wasn’t it called GREAT Britain at one time? Huh!) is fast becoming an Islamic state. Many columnists in daily U.K. newspapers are openly writing this. Sharia law now exists in many towns and the Muslims are completely ignoring British law. We’ll never know how lucky we were to gain our independence when we did! The Labour Party in the U.K. has just received a sound thrashing in local elections, but what good will that do, when that jackass David Cameron and the Conservatives are no better than Blair and his wreckers. May the Lord have mercy on the U.K.
All,
My name is Victor Ricardo Callender and I am a Barbadian expatriate living in Tacoma, Washington USA. I am deeply concerned relative to the recent spate of West Indies cricket losses. My concern stems from the fact that the powers who control West Indies Cricket still continue to act like colonials. Why is it necessary for the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to send young West Indian cricketers to a cricket academy in Australia, when we have some of the greatest cricketing minds in the world in the West Indies?
Let me bring into focus the fact that Australian cricket was pedestrian in the late seventies. I can’t remember Australian cricketers ever attending a cricket academy in the West Indies. In Sun-Tzu’s “The Art of War,” Sun-Tzu suggest allowing your enemy to think you’re weak even though you’re strong. We of West Indian extraction must always remember that people of European extraction never concede power to anyone who does not look like them. West Indians and Barbadians in particular must remember that power is the only thing that satisfies man. Cricketing supremacy is coveted by all nations that play on the world stage, none more so than the European nations playing cricket. They believe that they taught us the game of cricket, and that they should always dominate us the “Colonials.”
West Indian cricket administrators must reach out to the likes of Seymour Nurse, who I believe to be one of the greatest talent agents in the spotting of cricketing talent in Barbados if not the West Indies. Cricket should be cherished as the national past time it is throughout our Island nations. If Barbados and other West Indian islands can build large edifices to showcase cricket games throughout the West Indies, why can’t monies be allocated to upgrading school facilities in our island nations? These islands produce countless cricket talent, however cricket gear is expensive and young men must be outfitted for success, in order to continually maintain their interest in the game of cricket.
Barbadians and West Indians cannot afford to view cricket with jaundiced eyes. The global cricketing Diaspora has moved the game of cricket unto a technological and scientific stage that if not soon embraced by West Indians, will be tantamount to cricketing obliteration. West Indian cricket cannot abide in the valley of cricketing dry bones, our Island nations depend on crickets resurgence as our national past time and as the resurrection of our national identity.
Victor R Callender
Bajan Expatriate
Copyright laws in Barbados
how is it that in one of today’s newspapers we could see a woman being charged for selling spiderman DVD’s, how come we only see small men in court and never any big video stores?
Drug Agencies a JOKE
Why is it that in 2007 we are sending young people to prison for drug use. when you have drug users they have a chemical problem and need medical help. but hey, we have nothing else to do with them so off to prison they go, where the prompty become hardened criminals, who will leave prisom will all the wrong skills and most likely aids as well.
Many years ago we were promised a drug court and drug treatment center. NONE YET.
How can we move heaven and earth and spend 100′s of millions for some tourist for 2 months, but cant do anything for our youth who are the ones most affected by drugs
Most drug users need medical help and should be helped where possible, however drug addiction is self inflicted often despite many warnings. There are some old people in our community in need of serious medical help and young mothers and their babies likewise, with the meagre resources we have who are more deserving? I have only posed the question, others might have a view.
Hi BFP
It may be helpful if you would post a glossary of words and/or phrases that trigger moderation.
It can be galling when quite bland comments are lifted and a current debate is interrupted.
BFP
You regularly publish the source of comments, so is there any way to state the actual number of individual Bajan ISPs who access this blog.
Or are we just disaffected blowhards pi**ing in the wind.
***********************
Hi Straight Talk
Robert here. Yes, we could look at the stats and see how many readers are on the island and how many readers are from various regions. I know Cliverton is able to do this and other magic tricks with the stats so we will talk about it when he gets home. He has done some interesting things with the stats. For instance, when we publish articles on international financing or offshore investments we take a tremendous number of hits from Switzerland. Don’t know why but we do.
We will talk about it at the next meeting. What exactly did you want to know?
Bfp Robert
Hi Straight Talk
Robert here. Yes, we could look at the stats and see how many readers are on the island and how many readers are from various regions. I know Cliverton is able to do this and other magic tricks with the stats so we will talk about it when he gets home. He has done some interesting things with the stats. For instance, when we publish articles on international financing or offshore investments we take a tremendous number of hits from Switzerland. Don’t know why but we do.
We will talk about it at the next meeting. What exactly did you want to know?
Bfp Robert
**************************************************
BFP,
At the next meeting can you all also decide on a NEW date for the release of the longgggg promised Money Laundering story ?
And factor in the number of hits you would likely generate !
BFP,
At the next meeting can you all also decide on a NEW date for the release of the longgggg promised Money Laundering story ?
And factor in the number of hits you would likely generate !
Hope Cliverton can come up with the total of individual Bajan ISPs to give the blog some idea of percentage readership island wide.
I sympathize with you real Barbadons…..Like Bermuda, your Island has become a retirement
escape for corrupt and wealthy parasites such as
Tony Blair, who soon retires to his no doubt, luxury
estate there with hiss millions, while leaving Britain
in a big economic an military mess. He collaborated
with GWB the White House warmongering lunatic,
to send many brave people to fight and die in futile
adveturism based on hypethetical BS.! Let’s hope he
doesn’t receive a warm welcome there. His chesire-
cat phony grin hides a sinister, scheming inner
mind. Isn’t it time that you Barbadons took back
your Island and shaped it’s destiny, after all you
have the numbers to do so. Vote for a government
that forces radical change for the majority, not one
who carves up the limited land for the wealthy,
corrupt foreigners to escape from their own disasters. your childrens futures depends on what
you demand and determine today.
Paul Michael,
Welsh Writer,
Former top radio DJ USA.
The Dangers of a 4th General Election Victory for the Barbados Labour Party…
Many in Barbados amongst the middleclass elite want a timetable for change within the political ruling class. The left-wing politics of this government has steered this country far away from its intended ideals of fairplay, free-market economics, liberalisation and free trade access.
The real politics of the last decade has been a gradual wane towards to a form of economic apartheid in this country, where a tiny minority of Caucasians either own or control 80% of our national wealth and Gross National Product.
The political class has been instrumental in this exercise because they have grown rich and increased in goods and think they have need of nothing. Greed, self-serving and economic empowerment by this ruling class serves only one purpose and that is the guaranteeing and perpetuating of its financial pedigree and pre-eminence for decades to come.
The real issues within this country are being obfuscated time and time again purposefully to camouflage the real sinister areas of concern like corruption, bribery and the unfair acquisitions of people’s land. All the while, the real issues hinge around corporate and political governance involving issue of probity, transparency and above all, accountability of those in leadership positions in our society.
Barbados is at the cross-roads. This country, as many feel deep down inside, is entering an era of unprecedented change coupled with the looming sense of impending crisis both geo-politically and fiscally. Many also feel that there are serious areas of wrongdoing in our society and believe change is necessary; notwithstanding the fact that the society suffers with inertia and moral insomnia, which could be as a result of something in the drinking water (that may not be as foolish as some think).
The issues facing us as a nation-state border less on our security but rather on our stability (economically, morally & spiritually); the future socio-political progress of our country which involves the respect for the values and principals of democracy as against an autocratic, dictatorial form of government whose only mantra is the holding on to power by any means necessary and for as long as possible.
Barbados is quickly becoming an “Oligarchy”! Some may ask, what does that mean? Let me briefly explain:-
When a country is ruled by the economic bourgeoisie to the extent that they are the ones who wield economic and political power, control of the direction of that country rest within the hands of that elite group. Equally, when the corporate multinationals have ease of access to undertake their Mergers & Acquisitions (as in the case of the Neal & Massey Group with one of our local corporate giants) without any established WATCHDOGS as in the UK’s case of a Competition Commission, we are in serious trouble. Out the window goes free and fair competition and entering once again is full blown “monopoly” as was the case with Cable & Wireless for the last 50 years.
If politics within a country is the barometric gauge to measure the climatology within the society, then the current temperature of this nation, especially for those in government are clearly contributing to the financial ozone-type credit bubble which now grows year on year resulting in over-heating of our economy by persistent borrowing and placing an undue burden of unjust balance of payments on future generations.
For example, a small country such as ours is carrying an unbelievably heavy credit burden, a bubble that is soon to burst. Look at the economic markers. Every quarter, the Bank of England is raising interest rates. We are losing valuable foreign exchange through money laundering and other divisive practices, some on the part of so-called respectable members of this society who are able to hide millions in offshore banks without any disclosures. The spiraling cost of goods and services continue to climb astronomically. This includes most importantly, the cost of food which is a serious barometric gauge as to who is in control in this country and who is able to turn up the heat, as and when.
If the only constant thing in life is change, then how can we not change things in Barbados politically? It would be dangerous to allow this present government another term of office given what has already transpired in the last 3 terms in power.
Westminster-Style Parliamentary democracy does not allow for strands of autocracy to exist neither does it condone the tenets of dictatorship. Sir Edmund Burke noted British social historian argues that “All it takes for evil to perpetuate is for good men to do nothing!” Yet we have allowed this current government to rule unhindered without any real watchdogs of accountability for almost 15 years and in the process have become apathetic, complacent and reticent about bringing about any necessary or meaningful change.
The great United States of America has enshrined within its Constitution a two-term presidency for its political leadership. Tony Blair has had to hit the road jack! Why are we handing out and allowing lifetime peerages and memberships for our elected political leaders and others who feel as if it is a “God-given entitlement” for them to wave a big stick of control over the popular masses? Maybe the masses need a wake up call!
Let us change things even if it is just for the sake of change. There’s magic in change! Change brings accountability and with that comes greater transparency and social justice. The responsibility rest upon us to make that change a permanent fixture of our politics and our democracy. Anything short of that will spell disaster for all of us.
May God help the people of Barbados to make the changes in this next general election.
Terence M. Blackett
I fully endorse your comments.
It is not about BLP or DLP.
It is about ensuring that the ” checks & balances ” in our system are re – newed & re – invigorated .
You are correct when you surmise that this present BLP regime has shown all tendencies to descend into a…….” dictatorial form of government whose only mantra is the holding on to power by any means necessary and for as long as possible. ”
This explains why there is no governance & financial integrity on issues like :
** GEMS , GREENLAND , UDC , CBC , QEH , NHC , CWC 2007 & the like…!
The Barbadian electorate deserves BETTER !
A change of government is the FIRST step in that direction !
Imported Sand Concern
Recently in the print media I read that Sir Charles Williams said: “. . . we are now satisfied that we can mine sand in St Lucia, ship it to Barbados and still be able to sell it at a price that is lower than sand mined in Barbados”
Although I believe this is great news and a good idea, I am however concerned about strange fauna being introduced into the Barbados ecosystem from St. Lucia.
The sand repotedly is mined on a 500 acre plot of land in the mountainous interior of St. Lucia.
I hope that Sir Charles’ company officials will take great care in making sure that any strange insects or snakes, snails or other vermin not native to Barbados don’t get a free trip to Barbados onboard the barge that will be bringing the first 3,000 tons of this material into Barbados come May 21.
Stephen Richards,
An interesting point you have made .
The CSM (E) is about the free movement of people…..with COW new found ” gold ” Owen may be moved to recommend an amendment to Caricom’s legislation to include…..mountain chickens !
Mountain chickens we could get by with, but the deadly Fer-de-lance snake? And its habitat is bang in the middle of St. Lucia. What next is going to happen to Barbados?
What the government of Barbados could have spent $200 million on?
The quest of any government is the alleviation of poverty and the enhancement of the good of its people. This concept though buried in the attic of post-modern sociology, many would agree that the axis of contemporary politics continue to move more and more towards a socialist-type model. Latin American geopolitics is one such trend.
Caribbean governments are no longer immune from the waves of change that is sweeping our political landscape. Barbados is truly on the threshold of change. After (13) years of Barbados Labour Party rule, people are incensed at the corruption, greed and political machinations of a government who bears no responsibility for accountability, transparency or fairness.
On the heels of a Cricket World Cup flop, the embarrassment of the astronomical cost to the taxpayer has not yet become evident. This government has borrowed up to the hilt without due care or discretion to the long term ramifications to the general public of Barbados.
What could have the multi-millions spent on a colossal cricket flop be funnelled towards? Let us examine the options:-
• Firstly, the improvement in public service for our sanitation workers, teachers, nurses, firemen, doctors and others who make our lives manageable and cater to our social needs, would have benefited from an infusion of that multi-million dollar capital expenditure spent on a needless enterprise which will take another decade or more to repay.
• Secondly, the roadwork network infrastructure would have been greatly improved by an infusion of necessary capital creating better roads for the travelling motorists. Roads that haven’t been touched for decades could have been resurfaced while newer infrastructural road projects could have been undertaken, negating the responsibility for companies like C.O. Williams Ltd to have to borrow monies to facilitate the widening of the existing Highway development along the East-West corridor. Monies which the taxpayer will be paying back for another (20) years given the APR on those loans.
• Thirdly, with all the chaos at the present Queen Elizabeth Hospital, some of those millions could have gone into the building of a new hospital with ultra-modern technological specs. Creating a more user friendly environment for hospital staff and patients while at the same time encouraging diagnostic innovations through teaching and research and the facilitation of medical tourism as in the case of India where American and Brits now travel for cutting edge operations at a fraction of the cost of doing it in their own countries.
• Fourthly, no government can continue to ignore the damning plight of its young people who are perpetually being marginalised due to a lack of educational opportunity, drug use and spiralling crime dependence. Monies must be spent to curtail this ominous trend. Some of those million could have been earmarked for a pilot program to get our “boys” off the block by the implementation of a structural program in “National Service”(Social Engineering Policy which I have devised) which would mandate and stimulate our young men and women into training programs of entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, civil and military service. Instead of incarceration for our young men who are guilty of petty misdemeanours, our focus should be on remedial programs which teach rehab and social development including life and social skills. These areas are cash starved. Government lends lip-service with fanciful platitudes and high sounding words while doing precious little to alleviate the sufferings of the disadvantaged in our society. To many it is easier to spend millions building prisons instead of spending the same millions to create a more just and equitable society where those less fortunate have a fighting chance at true survival.
• Lastly, there are no real custodians and guardians of what is sacred in Barbadian society. Monies are borrowed from everywhere. Kickbacks, siphoning, bribes, embezzlement and trickery are the hallmarks of a society on the brink of annihilation. Government ministers, civic and institutional leaders can no longer think it is an acceptable social norm to behave as if corruption, greed and avarice are behaviours which can be condoned. There must be accountability on the part of those who lead. The thief on the street is as bad as the crook in the hallowed halls of government. Men must be held to account.
In conclusion, the millions spent on hosting the World Cup in Barbados was a dismal failure of epic proportions. The electorate, the people are the ones left holding the bag which is clearly full of holes. We the people must now decide whether we want another (5) years of corruption, mismanagement and the marginalisation of the majority at the behest of the “minority” who rule with a rod of iron. The choice is a simple one… exercise your right for change!!!
Barbados has very little biodiversity. A snake or two from St. Lucia might improve things. On second thought, maybe the snakes are already here.
Deputy P.M., John Prescott of the U.K. is due to visit Barbados on a “farewell” visit, to mark the 200th anniversary of the end of the slave trade. He will meet with P.M. Owen Arthur. With any luck, it may well turn out to be a double farewell.
Why didn’t he say his goodbyes when the PM made his speech in Hull, which is Prescott’s constituency?
Sounds like another jolly at the taxpayer’s expense.
There can be no benefit to Barbados from entertaining this discredited buffoon.
You’re dead right, and it will cost the British taxpayers something in the vicinity of fifteen thousand quid.
You’re dead right. And the British taxpayers will have to fork out something in the vicinity of fifteen thousand pounds to pay for this little jaunt.
Why is my comment awaiting moderation (twice)?
BFP
Would you kindly check your e-mail, if you haven’t already done so, and reply to my e-mail to you, which I sent yesterday. Thank you.
Hello Margaret
George forwarded the email to us and we will be discussing it tonight. You are new here and don’t realize that we do not reply directly to emails for security purposes.
Please be assured that we will be discussing the issue and will have something to say about it.
Clive
Okay, thank you, Clive.
BFP,
We, your loyal bloggers, understand Marcus and Shona’s personal difficulties which have delayed the much previewed “money laundering” post.
I believe that you may be the recipients of much sensitive info that we mere taxpayers are not privy to.
If you are not , state so.
If I had firm evidence of any malfeasance, I would email it to you to do what in your consideration is the correct disclosure.
We understand from your previous posts that you have a scoop.
Are you saving posts for the election bell to ring?
Or are you tittilating your blog to increase readership?
I can safely advise that there are many on this blog with snippets of info, which when collated would complete any picture, and your reticence in posting the canvas for all your visitors to “paint by numbers” is very frustrating, and hands ammunition to the status quo mouthpieces.
Have a very enjoyable editorial meeting tonight, and welcome home with congratulations to Cliverton.
If you think it’s only happening here, think again. Headlines in U.K. Daily Mail, “One wife, two mistresses … and a quad bike on Commons expenses”.
It continues: “The campaign by MPs to exclude themselves from freedom of information laws is headed by a Tory parliamentarian who bought a L3,300 quad bike on parliamentary expenses.”
And that is good old England! Wuhloss!
I nearly shed tears when I read the story about the fate of Sam Lord’s Castle, entitled “Castle Crumbling” by Carol Matindale in the Sunday Sun today. I don’t understand the legal battle between CLICO and – is it Marriotts? or whoever. Are they just going to allow that grand building to become a ruin, like what happened to Farley Hill so many years ago? Does anyone know the true story on the present situation? Is it another case of wiping out our Colonial past?
1. Great posts from Terence Blackett: cogent, lucid, well-informed. If only you could be writing in The Nation, skipper…
2. I’m with Straight Talk: will BFP still addressing the money-laundering issue any time soon, or are you just going to let it drop? Your silence about it now after all the build-up a few weeks back is weird. You should at least keep us updated.
3. Lastly, Paul Richards’s obvious loathing of Tony Blair leads him to post bare foolishness. To my knowledge (any “Barbadons” know different?), Blair owns no land or property here; when he visits he stays at Cliff Richards’s house at Royal Westmoreland. Secondly, it’s wholly inaccurate to say that the UK is in an economic mess. By all the usual criteria, it’s currently either the third or fourth strongest global economy. Of all the things that are mash up in the UK, the economy is one thing that’s strong and growing stronger.
*************************
Comment by BFP Marcus
Hello Samizdat
I am often late for dinner, but even if I have to work late my woman knows that I sleep nowhere else. She trusts that I will always come home and I do so every night – even if I’m late.
You’re not my woman, but I’ll ask you to trust me a little longer.
Yes, we had some family problems for a few weeks – and then someone did forward some other information to us that caused a delay. Our friends have been patient and we appreciate it. We will not let you down.
Marcus
Thanks, Marcus. That’s good to hear.
These days BFP is a light in a darkening place. You provide a beacon of truth in a fog of lies. So yeah: I’ll be patient…
Incidentally: I don’t know you, but all the best to you and yours. I really admire and respect what you’re doing on this site.
EVERYBODY: PLEASE, read The Lowdown in today’s Nation about the Trini takeover. I am sick and fed up with the aggressive attitude of these Trinidadians. Went to a Chinese restaurant (long before the expose on the slavery issue) run by a Chinese-Trini. Was just about to order when a gang of young Trini’s crashed through the door, rushed up to the bar, hailed the owner in typical brash, uncouth Trini manner, ordered their six take-aways and got served before me.
I am also sick and fed up with the brazen, rude way Guyanese workers, on their way to work – many of them in the country illegally – (you can always identify them with their rubber boots, huge straw hats and riding bicycles) stare at us Bajans, as much as to ask what right we have driving along OUR roads.
PLEASE, DLP, if you win the elections, STOP THESE FOREIGNERS FROM TAKING OVER BARBADOS.
Thought you might like to see this. It gets both Carciom and Islam.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article1840776.ece
BFP did you get a copy of Rawle Eastmond’s book
“Yardfowls”
I think this will become a hot topic soon.
Todays Nation online.
Yardfowls and hounds in Eastmond’s pen
Published on: 5/26/07.
So yuh is bajan fuh true, thistle?
Well yuh does sound tummuch like yuh from foreign yuhself. Yuh is a Englishman, I pretty sure.
But in any case, your small-islander xenophobic stereotyping foolishness (“typical brash uncouth Trini manner”) is kind of lame.
Samizdat-Trini.
I don’t know bout Thistle but it look like he or she is a thorn in you side. It is a well known fact that Trinidadians loud brash uncouth and arrogant. The thistle ain’t the onliest one that know that. If you think that coming here to buy up all we businesses and plantations make you own we Bajans you better think again. Looka, haul a….s do.
Vivian-Anne Gittens, CEO and Publisher of the Nation Publishing Company, says that action taken against a Nation reporter/photographer who was carrying out duties after an accident involving two buses in St. John, “could possibly be seen as a threat to Press freedom”.
Conversely, the bigshot Guyanese woman, Roxanne Gibbs, when being interviewed on the 12.30 p.m. VOB news yesterday said it was not a threat to press freedom. Stupid woman.
CRIME IN BARBADOS
I recently visited the island and was robbed at gun-point……….”TWICE.” While on the island I was approached by alot of “dishonest people.” From what I have heard in the past; “Barbados is a relatively safe destination, on the contrary, my visit paints a much different picture. I have tried several different searches to try and contact the police to follow up on the report with no success. Any suggestions?
Tourism is an important part of the economy on the island. Something needs to change.
hi
to the family of Karen Allambly. I did not know her personally, i vaguely remember a VERY BEARUTIFUL girl a long time ago but my younger sister went to school with her and we felt extremely sad that she was taken from this world this way. However, we believe that she is at peace. my sister had a dream about her 2 week ago. she dreamed that she saw her smiling and looking so beautiful. that’s all she remembers and i believe that is all she needs to remember from her dream. i prayer often that somehow her murder/s will be bought to extreme justice. i offer my condolences to her family.
Hey lollipop,
I’m neither trini nor guyanese (try another island), but your comment tells me clearly what YOU are:
like all xenophobes, you’re a weak, scared, sad, incompetent loser.
Luckily, most of the Bajans I know aren’t like you.
Have a nice day…
Why somebody dont tell that infantile potbelly little fool to go and play wid his toys and know that is big grownup people talking about real issues on this blog.
Check out the front page of The Nation today, everybody. See how the piggies (Owen, Mia and Barney) feed at the trough! When I logged on and the picture came up I thought for one moment I had logged into BFP by mistake.
BFP:
What’s the reason for closing down the “International Lawsuit” thread ?
The big cheque that Owen banked like it paid off.
http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/NewViewNewsleft.cfm?Record=31290
BFP:
Did you miss, or ignore, my question?
What’s the reason for closing down the “International Lawsuit” thread ?
Straight talk the International lawsuit thread is not closed down. There are several threads about the lawsuit only one did not allow comments for the reasons stated.
Thank you, more.
My mistake.
Did anyone see Barney Lynch on TV tonight? I zapped the sound because I couldn’t bear to listen to any more of his lies, but his body language alone told me that the man has absolutely no shame whatsoever. He has no conscience, and is completely insensitive. He is thumbing his nose at us, is saying to all of us, “Sod all of you. Tek dah” and intends to enjoy the rest of his life, thank you very much.
May God bless us all tonight and keep us safe.
He looked like a stuffed Barney !
A pathological liar he is !
No Name- You say “In the end market forces will take care of these ridiculously high fares.”
I wish this were true. But you are apparently unaware of the difficulties, political and bureacratic, that are put in the way of any new business entity trying to provide competitive service, particularly when you are competing with a Government owned/sponsored cripple, like LIAT.
Just ask Leslie Lucky Samaroo of the interference and red-tape difficulties he suffered from Govt of T&T with his airline to Tobago on TWO separate occasions. (Arawak and Air Caribbean)
Are you naive enough to think a millionaire can just set up shop here with a new airline like was done in Antigua? Get real. Government has been putting legal blocks in the way for years of those trying to operate an economical ferry between our islands. You remember MV Windward? Airlines require ten times more permissions to get started- permissions you won’t get.
The reality is that we are stuck with Government monopoly for transport, and they don’t give two damns about letting Caribbean nationals travel at a reasonable price. They like it so!
I am very sick and tired of the Barbados Free Press.
This website continues to promote gossip and defame the reputations of many outstanding Barbadians.
To the administrators of BFP,
Don’t u think that as citizens of Barbados you should seek to bring balance to your website?
*********************
BFP Robert comments:
Hi Maria
From the start we have offered this website to government politicians and initially they came and interacted with Bajan citizens and the website writers. They don’t come anymore because Bajans continue to ask straight forward questions about proven unethical conduct. When we drop a clanger, we are accountable in public – but when say, Government Minister Gline Clarke is caught building a home on land that his government expropriated, we hear only silence. When we ask how it is that the Prime Minister deposits “campaign donations” to his personal bank account, we hear only silence.
And on and on and on.
Any of those folks could write an article today to provide the “balance” you are looking for… but they don’t.
VECO provided a check and balance and took care of our mistake in about five minutes.
Gline Clarke has had over a year to explain himself. The Prime Minister has had almost 18 months to deny that he has a secret offshore bank account and other assets that have never seen the soil of Barbados. Income and assets earned and accumulated outside of the country.
Maria… you are more than welcome to provide “balance” by explaining these things or writing an article about anything.
Where shall we start? How about Gline Clarke…?
BFP Robert comments:
Hi Maria
From the start we have offered this website to government politicians and initially they came and interacted with Bajan citizens and the website writers. They don’t come anymore because Bajans continue to ask straight forward questions about proven unethical conduct. When we drop a clanger, we are accountable in public – but when say, Government Minister Gline Clarke is caught building a home on land that his government expropriated, we hear only silence. When we ask how it is that the Prime Minister deposits “campaign donations” to his personal bank account, we hear only silence.
And on and on and on.
Any of those folks could write an article today to provide the “balance” you are looking for… but they don’t.
VECO provided a check and balance and took care of our mistake in about five minutes.
Gline Clarke has had over a year to explain himself. The Prime Minister has had almost 18 months to deny that he has a secret offshore bank account and other assets that have never seen the soil of Barbados. Income and assets earned and accumulated outside of the country.
Maria… you are more than welcome to provide “balance” by explaining these things or writing an article about anything.
Where shall we start? How about Gline Clarke…?
BFP,
I cannot even believe that you are saying that I can bring balance to this website.
Do you remember or do you need me to remind you that the last time I tried doing such, I was banned from your website, referred to as a spin doctor, etc ?
Maria
just leave out the spin and write.
This is a link of a news story about what the american embassy in barbados is doing.
soaabe.org
This is a great web site about the amerifcan embassy in barbados. I’d love to protest what they are doing. it is no secret for the last year they have been awful to every barbadian who goes th ere treating like th ey are criminals.
Willis:
Tell us please, why would want to leave this island paradise for the sinkhole that is the USA, where you are obviously unwanted?
Maria,
Get a life!
We know you are not capable of contributing to any balance on this blog. Why do you keep reading all the gossip? Perhaps because you know it is the truth!
i have seen bmw,prados,honda crv’s,&other top of the line SUV’s,nobody ever complained…why the fuss about a few low-priced vehicles for mtw?
************************
BFP responds…
Ah… so nice to hear the voice of government. “You never complained about our excesses before. Why start now?”
Why now, Mr. government?
Because we have to start somewhere, and the Public Works using a vehicle that is double the cost of what is needed for its function would seem to be a valid complaint.
The weather has changed, my friend. Better get used to it.
Whats going on with the water in St Joseph? the water stink of chlorine, I can’t drink this or bathe in this, its so strong, I know for a fact people complain to BWA about this before, my family all got itchy skin and I got dry itchy places on my face. When you phone to complain nothing happens, any ideas?
After running in three consecutive, unsuccessful elections in the same constituencies, why is it that the DLP would need to introduce Randall Rouse and now tonight John Boyce to the people of those constituencies?
After being defeated three consecutive times, Randall Rouse and John Boyce are now “…ready to offer quality representation”.
Barbadians are not stupid and should not be insulted. After being defeated three consecutive times, now to be introduced to some of the same people, what is your definition of “quality representation”?
What about the “shelf life” of Rouse and Boyce?
BFS is NO Free Press
This website page would not let me put features on its site about the good the BLP is doing for Barbados this site is for THE DLP ——NO FREE PRESS
Are the editors of BFP Mr Adrian Loveridge David Thomspon, Cranston Browne or Chris Sinckler if so where is the FREE PRESS
Democracy does not exist within the DLP, so don’t expect anything different on Free Press. I was banned before for trying to bring balance to this site.
If freedom of speech is not allowed on this site, can you image what would happen under a DLP government lead by David Thompson?
This is why we have to make sure that we return the BLP to office and get ride of Thompson, because there is no way people like Richard Sealy, Ronald Jones, Denis Kellman, David Estwick, etc are going to allow him to return to the electorate in 2012 asking to be Prime Minister…let them destroy each other not this country…the number 1 developing country in the world.
Ronald Jones is the administrator of Barbados Free Press.
Arthur best choice
AS A JOURNALIST of so many years’ standing, it is not what Dr Harold Hoyte writes. Rather, what he does not write. Still, one cannot blame an artist, especially when he is asked to produce but does not have good material to work with.
Yes, leadership is an important component, but what Barbados, the Caribbean and the international community need at this time, and will need into the foreseeable future, is the type of fiscal and economic leadership that David Thompson and the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) are incapable of providing, but which Arthur has been providing with tremendous benefits to the ordinary people of Barbados and the Caribbean, for some time now.
Dr Hoyte’s column of Friday, January 5, reads: “While I, like everyone else in Barbados, accept that leadership will be an important issue in the next general election, it is my view that having the capacity to speak on fiscal and economic issues with competency and authority but moreso, having the capacity to formulate a credible model for economic development, especially given the Barbadian reality – is far more important.”
Arthur is therefore not only the right man, he is the best man for the job.
While Thompson may be leader of the Opposition DLP, which does not have a credible alternative economic or social plan, Arthur is already the most respected and trusted Prime Minister in this hemisphere, who has been authorised by the people of this region to speak for the entire Caribbean on fiscal and economic matters.
A choice of who should become Barbados’ next Prime Minister would not be at all difficult for a knowledgeable and alert electorate.
Hoyte, the third point is, Thompson may be running, but Arthur has been chosen; has received an anointing; and is best suited to provide progressive political, spiritual, economic and social leadership for this hemisphere.
No one who would have heard Arthur’s presentation to the 30th Annual Miami Conference of the Caribbean, held in December, 2006, would have any doubts. In fact, when Mr Arthur speaks, the entire world listens. Ask the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
Perhaps it may help if Hoyte is reminded and invited to note that Arthur is re-energised, and is now more caring, still down-to-earth and easily approachable, more experienced and is now – better than ever. At least, such would be extremely good news for all patriotic Barbadians and Caribbean people.
If Ronald Jones is the administrator of Barbados Free Press how can they by FREE PRESS it would be DLP PRESS not BFP
Mr Anonymous
freedom of speech is not allowed on this site, you can image what would happen under a DLP government lead by David Thompson?
IT IS A BIT UNFAIR for persons to accuse David Thompson of not having a vision for Barbados. After all, he once announced a “bus fare and lunch money” employment creation strategy, and in recent times, in addition to a self-preservation “me first” philosophy, he has unveiled a selfish “fatted calf” economic distribution theory model, which has caused all right-thinking Barbadians to hang their heads in disapproval.
Therefore, one cannot fault those who are now convinced that three things best describe the opposition Democratic Labour Party. It is power hungry, has an unquenchable political thirst for State power, and is a party in a disorderly state of desperation.
Little wonder that it has therefore not escaped an alert electorate that power is not a toy you put in the hands of a child, especially since power is an extremely lethal weapon in the wrong hands.
DLP seems to have died with Barrow
WHEN ERROL WALTON BARROW died in 1987, his Democratic Labour Party (DLP), which had so touched the lives of thousands of Barbadians in positive ways, appeared to have died with him.
What today masquerades as the DLP is merely a political chameleon which, since 1987, inflicted severe economic pain and hardship on the people of Barbados, implemented a savage eight per cent cut on public servants and placed thousands on the bread-line.
In the national interest, and as a mark of respect for Barrow, Denis Kellman must be given the rightful opportunity to rescue Barrow’s party from the people who now hold it captive, and allowed to start the process of renovation.
By Going for David
BLP ready to serve
READY to serve what, and to whom?
While the Democratic Labour Party – which has lost touch with the people of Barbados for sometime now – talks about, “campaign lift-off”, Prime Minister Owen Arthur advises his ministers and members of the Barbados Labour Party family – “not to be arrogant”, to “stay connected to the people”, and “to get on with the people’s business of implementing the party’s manifesto pledges”.
There is, therefore, a fundamental difference between, “being ready to serve”, and “being power-hungry”
The BLP have served but the menu has been the same BS for over ten years. It is now time for them to “serve” time.
The only people who take anything Harold Hoyte says seriously are deslusional Bajans who are still living in the past.
Hoyte changes his mind and opinion about Arthur as often as he changes his under wear.
But it is interesting to read the propaganda about the BLP and DLP economic philosophies from who writes like an expert but only practices the BLP philosophy that “BS baffles brains”.
Only a few days ago in the Nation News the prestigious Wall Street was reported as saying there were little if any difference between the Economic philosophies of David Thompson and Owen Arthur and that no matter who was elected the Economy of Barbados would change little.
I find it hard to believe that DOCTOR Hoyte if being quoted correctly did not see this artcle.
This one is directed to the BLP operative Maria all you need to do is await the counting of the votes and see the result.
Have you bunch not learnt yet that you have done a tremendous job of raping the treasury and your corruption is at an all time high and you wonder why people are sick of you and your party??
Come on get a life you bunch of crooks!!!
The Erskine Sandiford government, with Chris Sinkler as his Personal Ass (istant) and David Thompson as Minister of Finance, were the biggest crooks to every rob the treasury of Barbados.
They took the 8% from the humble civil servants,while increasing Mininsters’ salaries. Took the Government of Barbados’ money and paid IMP people.
St. Joseph Hospital that was “built,” so that DLP ministers and lackeys could get hefty bank accounts and Warwick Franklyn got the BIDC to pay his daughter’s tuition.
You keep Wishing in Vain for David Thompson to become Prime Minister of Barbados so that you can get an air-conditioned house for your dogs.
**************************
BFP Comments…
Maria’s argument seems to be that in the past and in the future, a DLP government is as corrupt as the current BLP government.
We agree.
It is not about which party is more or less corrupt at heart because there is a tendency to become corrupt when power is achieved. That’s only human nature, not BLP or DLP nature.
Once again children… Without conflict of interest rules and integrity legislation one group of Bajans will be as tempted by power as the next. Only by implementing integrity legislation prior to the next election is there any hope of stopping this feeding frenzy.
Robert BFP
BFP Comments…
Maria’s argument seems to be that in the past and in the future, a DLP government is as corrupt as the current BLP government.
We agree.
It is not about which party is more or less corrupt at heart because there is a tendency to become corrupt when power is achieved. That’s only human nature, not BLP or DLP nature.
Once again children… Without conflict of interest rules and integrity legislation one group of Bajans will be as tempted by power as the next. Only by implementing integrity legislation prior to the next election is there any hope of stopping this feeding frenzy.
Robert BFP
Is that “Robert”, Robert “Bobby” Morris, have they recycled you as well?
The DLP should have some of their younger members responding, not abusing someone your age.
*****************************
BFP’s Robert replies…
Ho hum. No, I’m not any Robert you know.
And neither did I expect a substantive answer from you regarding my position about the absurdity of saying that one group of Bajans is more honest at heart than another group of Bajans. There are good and bad people in both parties, but none can withstand the temptation of having full power with no accountability or legal standards for the handling of millions of dollars to spend as they see fit.
You know I really love Barbados Free Press, every time I post a comment, I see “Your comment is awaiting moderation”, that’s ok, I will keep blogging.
BFP never cease to amuse me, “You are posting comments too quickly. Slow down.”
That’s ok, DLP aka Barbados Free Press, coming out of the blocks too early is often a false start, which will be evident whenever elections are called.
The people want you to deal with the issues of the day and stop the politics of personal attacking. Is it that you are unable to deal with the New Politics; issues such as Globalisation (based on Kellman’s theory, that means having an airport in St. Lucy), and Trade Liberalisation, Taan Abed, this does not mean that your “herbal supplies” can be shipped via Kelly’s airport legally, Barbados is still a predominately christian society what are you muslim or hindu..which puts you in the minority). Michael Lashley and David Thompson are not aware of such morals either, because both of them are seen weekly at drug (sorry dub) fetes.
What is your problem you thing ?
Is this going to your style until you are escorted out for the house of assembly??
Is this your style because people have now unfolded you bunch for what you all really are a sick corrupt gang of crooks that continues to steal from the god loving taxpayers of this island or still making deals with Hallam Nicholls et al for his long term wealth program, remember that cheque for the $ 750,000.00 that Owing deposited to his account or the plantation home MM Lynch now owns on a ministers salary???
Pack your bags your free for all is winding down, actually you may not need to pack too much if you bunch move into the new jail with cost overruns to the tune of inexcess of $ 200 million, they should be sent up until they turn old and grey and cannot rob anyone else again.
It is interesting that the DLP supporters are allowed to respond so promptly but my comments are ALWAYS moderated.
It is only a matter of time before you ban me from your site (again). You ask me questions yet you don’t like my answers, what do you want?
I can tell you what Barbadians DO NOT want, David Thompson as Prime Minister.
On last note before I go to bed, you should go to bed soon as well, so that you can make a substantial contribution in Parliament tomorrow.
Please provide me with a personal invitation when your party is introducing Mr. Kenneth Best to the people, so that I can have the police on hand to arrest him.
Maria I would refrain from going down or attempting to go down the moral line here as we all know your party is very weak in that department of moral issues, from what we all know we have a PM that is a drunk a DPM ********
*** Section edited out by bfp’s Auntie Moses *****
***** WIV… you KNOW the standards of this blog. Please don’t push them even if you are showing us support. ********
Sadly if you are so disgusted with BFP why not blog on your site but then again your site is more critical of your party than even BFP is and from what I have seen they are backward and slow as for blogs they are not happening there, so you must feel obliged to stick with BFP.
More power to BFP they are doing a great job at exposing you and your party for what you really are a bunch of dishonest bastards that are all corrupt as ever.
With regard to your call about personal attacks they are deserving and much needed when you have ones like these in power there is only one way to handle them get as nasty as they are, what do expect for the DLP to stand aside and take the crap that Owing wants to dish out and we cower with our tail between our legs because a drunkard has spoken, not he and each one of you that is corrupt will face the same level of wrath.
It will be in the press idiot, and you are invited, one thing I know and I can tell you what Barbadians DO NOT want, Mr ESAF White rum Owing as Prime Minister or Mia coke Mottley as Prime Minister.
Oh dumb one my comments go to moderation from time to time as well, guess with the level of stupidity you show yours must go more often.
you are not only sick but you are really a sad example of what your party is about you are vile in the worst way.
**********
Second chance, WIV
You will conform to the standards of this blog or you will have to start your own.
Auntie Moses bfp
Tell me what is upsetting to you as I really would like to understand, surely it cannot be the entire piece because it is factual.
Just for clarity thanks not being difficult here but not sure what part is at issue.
Barbadians DO NOT want, David Thompson as Prime Minister.
What standards? The DLP has no standards so do u expect this blog to have any?
Maria, don’t mind Wishing in Vain clearly (the blogger is a man) who seems to have a problem with females, just like David Thompson.
This blog is mainly meant to accomodate people who when they say something give reasons and logic for what they say. BLP YES DLP NO is a Campaign sign that were I the BFP I would not print on those grounds. Plus when the message that was conveyed is printed with nothing to support it the only cause it supports is that the Author is much like the Party they are supporting. Full of BS and nothing else.
People like this usually take around a piece of toilet paper to wipe their mouth after speaking
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761595967/Juneteenth.html?GT1=10056
Didn’t know if you have ever heard about this in Barbados!! Just passing along this to you FYI – it is inspiring!
Keep up the great work – you guys are the best!!
To Plover
That’s all the DLP is about alot of “talk” “talk” “talk”.
When the BLP win’s in 2008 it’s the end for David that y he is so Power Hungry now, David will go down 1 2 yes 3 times ot Owen and the BLP
this isfor “Wishing in Vain”
Going for David
I hardly consider him to be power hungry as you blpites would want to suggest let us put it in perspective he is on mercy mission to recover our island from levels of corruption never seen in this island before, I must admit I do not envy him one bit because the extent of the stealing is serious when the gov’t can steal in excess of $ 200 million in one project as the prison is, that cheque that Owing deposited to his account to the tune of $ 750,000.00, or the gov’t buying lands from friends and paying in excess of the value to get part of the difference in their personal bank accounts.
Lord help us if we were ever to get laboured with another 5 years of dishonesty and corruption they have done a great job of raping our country in the last 15 years and we cannot afford them for another 5 years.
To Wishing in Vain
Talk talk talk that’s all u have “Wishing in Vain”
The Sun on Saturday Pub. Date: 8/26/06
From The EDITORIAL :
However, the new prison at Dodds, St Philip, scheduled to be opened early next year, offers the opportunity to implement such a plan. The US$140 million prison built on 25-plus acres with single cells to house 1 250 inmates, will emphasise high-tech supervision of the prisoners.
The Fact’s
“estimated it would cost around $100 million”
“Mottley said Government would have to await the completion of the designs to quantify the finance of the prison,”
US firm to build new jail at Dodds
Publication: Daily Nation
6/29/05
Written By: Bradshaw Maria
Headline:US firm to build new jail at Dodds
Story Body :
A UNITED STATES COMPANY has won the bid to finance and construct the new prison facility at Dodds, St Philip.
Attorney-General Mia Mottley announced yesterday in Parliament that Veco Inc was the company chosen out of two proposals which were submitted.
She said the proposals was evaluated by a technical committee chaired by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance which unanimously recommended Veco for the job.
“I accepted the recommendation and last Friday the memorandum of understanding was signed by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and the representatives of Veco. It is anticipated that within 21 months we will have a new prison at Dodds,” she told the House of Assembly.
$100 million bill
Mottley said Government would have to await the completion of the designs to quantify the finance of the prison, but she estimated it would cost around $100 million.
She added that in August a town hall meeting would be held with residents living in Dodds, Padmore Village, Church Village and surrounding areas to update them about construction of the prison.
“The site is almost 200 acres. We will only be utilising 50 acres for the prison so there will be no circumstance where the prison will be up underneath any community. It will be a good distance with significant buffers from any existing community,” she said.
Meanwhile, sources revealed that the second bid was submitted by a consortium made up of Jada Builders, Rotherley Construction, Rayside Construction, C.O. Williams Construction, Williams Industries, FirstCaribbean Internatonal Bank, Barbados National Bank and mega-billion dollar British construction firm Carrilian, which builds and operate prisons in the United Kingdom.
That proposal carried a price tag of approximately $120 million in a 25-year BOLT – build, operate, lease and transfer – arrangement.
Going for David
You tell me how much $$$$ David his in the Bank
GET THE FACT”S “Wishing in Vain”
Going for David
SIMPLY THE BEST!
Lynch, Mascoll CWC was country’s finest honour
That essentially was the message from Minister of Tourism Noel Lynch as he reviewed the country’s performance during Cricket World Cup 2007, at the monthly meeting of the St Michael North East branch of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) yesterday.
Stating repeatedly he would not back down from his assessment that CWC represented “Barbados finest hour”, Lynch noted that 63 480 long-stay visitors were on the island in April, the highest number ever since the country started recording tourist arrivals.
This figure, he added, represented a 19.6 per cent increase over the previous April, which had itself seen a 13 per cent jump from the year before.
Of even greater significance, said Lynch, was that the island earned an additional US$16.75 million. Anyone who visited St Lawrence Gap or Bridgetown during the matches would have seen that the place was “overrun with visitors”, he added.
And the benefits continued, Lynch told an audience that included parliamentary representative for the area, Deputy Prime Minister Mia Mottley, since one Indian tour operator was already booked to bring 1 000 Indians to the island next year.
“There is a legacy component that will manifest itself over time,” Lynch said, while revealing that also during the month of April, cruise passenger arrivals grew by 17 per cent.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Clyde Mascoll, also said Barbados performed admirably before and during CWC, pointing out that money invested in construction and other preparatory activity helped to stimulate the economy and provide benefits for hundreds of small entrepreneurs.
Responding to critics of the spending, Mascoll said: “No Australian who left here took back a road with him. No Australian carried back a piece of the ABC Highway. It is Barbadians who benefit from the spending.”
In fact, said Mascoll, before a ball was bowled more than 200 companies had reaped benefits.
Meanwhile, both Mascoll and Lynch attacked the Opposition Democratic Labour Party (DLP) for failing to engage in serious debate about World Cup or the economy, while trying to sell the country a false picture.
Mascoll said the Dems had failed to offer any serious analysis of the country’s economic performance reports from the Central Bank, while Lynch accused the Opposition of introducing a level of “political nastiness” to discussions in Barbados, led by Member of Parliament David Estwick.
Additionally, he accused “certain people in the media” of involvement in the exercise, referring repeatedly to “a set of people in Fontabelle” who wanted to lead the country from behind their desks.
The Fact’s on the Prison
For u Mr “Wishing in Vain” from Going for David
NOTE: The official signing of the agreement between Government and Veco USA Inc for the US$140 million prison facility was on 06/20/06
Date: 6/21/06 Page: 5 A
Daily Nation
Headline:Jail ‘by January’
BY THE END OF NEXT JANUARY, Barbados’ new state-of-the art prison at Dodds, St Philip should be operational.
Attorney-General Dale Marshall made the announcement yesterday following the official signing of the agreement between Government and Veco USA Inc., the company contracted to construct the US$140 million prison facility.
Speaking to the media at Parliament Buildings, Marshall said while the current prison population was over 980 inmates, the facility at Dodds would accommodate 1 250.
While acknowledging that a December hand-over had to be changed because of certain challenges arising from the unavailability of building material, the Attorney-General disclosed that over 90 per cent of the foundation work of all of the buildings had been completed.
In addition, Marshall said a significant milestone would be reached on July 10 with the installation of the first cell in the female housing and support building.
He anticipated that on the current work schedule, all of the cells would be erected by the end of August.
He said there would be a significant emphasis on high-tech supervision of the prisoners.
The facility would also have an extensive prison farm, study facilities and improved conditions for prison staff.
He commended Veco USA Inc. for showing good faith in Government by proceeding with construction without a legal contract.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Housing and Lands, acting minister Reverend Joseph Atherley said there would be a 25-year term lease of the 57.2 acres of land at Dodds to Barbados Corrections Corporation on behalf of Veco.
——————————
NOTE: She “MIA” estimated it would cost around $100 million.
“Mottley said Government would have to await the completion of the designs to quantify the finance of the prison”
Daily Nation 6/29/05 pg 4A
Headline:US firm to build new jail at Dodds
A UNITED STATES COMPANY has won the bid to finance and construct the new prison facility at Dodds, St Philip.
Attorney-General Mia Mottley announced yesterday in Parliament that Veco Inc was the company chosen out of two proposals which were submitted.
She said the proposals was evaluated by a technical committee chaired by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance which unanimously recommended Veco for the job.
“I accepted the recommendation and last Friday the memorandum of understanding was signed by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and the representatives of Veco. It is anticipated that within 21 months we will have a new prison at Dodds,” she told the House of Assembly.
$100 million bill
Mottley said Government would have to await the completion of the designs to quantify the finance of the prison, but she estimated it would cost around $100 million.
She added that in August a town hall meeting would be held with residents living in Dodds, Padmore Village, Church Village and surrounding areas to update them about construction of the prison.
“The site is almost 200 acres. We will only be utilising 50 acres for the prison so there will be no circumstance where the prison will be up underneath any community. It will be a good distance with significant buffers from any existing community,” she said.
Meanwhile, sources revealed that the second bid was submitted by a consortium made up of Jada Builders, Rotherley Construction, Rayside Construction, C.O. Williams Construction, Williams Industries, FirstCaribbean Internatonal Bank, Barbados National Bank and mega-billion dollar British construction firm Carrilian, which builds and operate prisons in the United Kingdom.
That proposal carried a price tag of approximately $120 million in a 25-year BOLT – build, operate, lease and transfer – arrangement.
GET THE FACT”S MR “Wishing in Vain”
So here we have the lies the local construction company fails to get awarded the contract because their quote was $ 25 million to high when their quote was submitted at $ 120 million but these crooks are getting it at $ 280 million these figures were quoted in Bds $ as this is the currency of the country.
What a load of bull no wonder Lynch is saying it is Barbados’s finest hour of theft and corruption
u see what I’m said all u all have is talk talk where are your fact?????
For u Mr “Wishing in Vain” from Going for David
u have all of my fact’s where are your’s
Many of them are listed above the facts are as follows -:
So here we have the lies the local construction company fails to get awarded the contract because their quote was $ 25 million to high when their quote was submitted at $ 120 million but these crooks are getting it at $ 280 million these figures were quoted in Bds $ as this is the currency of the country.
What a load of bull no wonder Lynch is saying it is Barbados’s finest hour of theft and corruption.
The figures are as above they show the real level of corruption that exist, explain to me the difference between the two quotes and how the cheaper one could end up costing about double of the original more expensive quote.
Hello,
We would like to do an interview with you about your blog for
http://www.BlogInterviewer.com . We’d like to give you the opportunity to
give us some insight on the “person behind the blog.”
It would just take a few minutes of your time. The interview form can
be submitted online at http://bloginterviewer.com/submit-an-interview
Best regards,
Mike Thomas
BlogInterviewer.com
*********************************
BFP reply:
I have not bounced this off the rest. Will talk to everyone and let you know.
george
mikejmu
June 22nd, 2007 at 3:21 am
Hello,
We would like to do an interview with you about your blog for
http://www.BlogInterviewer.com . We’d like to give you the opportunity to
give us some insight on the “person behind the blog.”
It would just take a few minutes of your time. The interview form can
be submitted online at http://bloginterviewer.com/submit-an-interview
Best regards,
Mike Thomas
BlogInterviewer.com
**********************************************
BFP,
Be careful with this invitation !
That rascal Owen Arthur……would stop at nothing to find out who you guys are !
Just remember….Cuba , Venezuela & Zimbabwe !
Yes better be alert to dangers here
What dangers? please be more specific, WIV.
I am writing as I m calling for witnesses who have been aware of the hideout(s) of male assailant calling himself Wendel (black male) and white male assailant calling himself Jerry Emtage and other staffing at the queen elizabth hospital, bridgetown who have conspired in the commitance of genocide (extermination) which has been declared to barbados police. I have been repetitively hunted for the murder attempts and depravation of family honor and looting by these and some other moslems in this.
This is serious if you would forward all details to the police .
If you would like to keep up with the political scene in Jamaica, please feel free to visit my blog at: http://jamaicangirl2007.wordpress.com/
Hi Jamaica Girl
We are dropping by to wish you good luck.
Here is a story idea for you…
Compare the differences in law (if any) between Jamaica and Barbados as far as politicians having to declare campaign donations and how they are to be handled. Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur was caught putting a $750,000 “campaign donation” cheque into his personal bank account “for later transfer to the party” (ha ha!)
Guess what? It is not illegal in Barbados.
How about in Jamaica?
Write an article comparing the two and we’ll be happy to feature it and connect to your blog in a major story.
cheers!
Cliverton, Marcus, Shona, George, Robert & Auntie Moses
Barbados Free Press
Somewhere near Grape Hall, Barbados
When I read s—–te like this I say “Only in Barbados—-PITY”.
How wunna is run this blog wid out not havin to be sent down to Jenkins the mad house wait bo lemme be politically correct THE PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL only God in heaven knows. I culdn’t do it becuz I wud cuss so bad Aunty Moses wud lik off muh head wid eh slap.
When I read some of the revelations and nonsense that the Government and Politicians can get away with in Barbados I wonder how it can be lauded as a “Democracy”.
You know it is sad to see my island reduced politically to where it is and which IN MY OPINION we have mainly one element to blame for it “THE FOREIGNER”. They have taken over, raped every natural resource we have and are still doing it and the tragedy of it is that their despicable conduct does not end there. The millions generated from this unscrupolous business behaviour is sent out of Barbados with few in Bim getting any benefit from it. And they say slavery is over but from my perspective a new form of 21st Century slavery has replaced the one Bussa reminds us of.
BFP:
Hi guys ( and gals ).
What was once a polite sensible Bajan talking shop, seems to be fast deteriorating into a sexist, racist insult ridden conduit for every axe grinder to chop at your still tender roots.
This may be an organised plot to discredit your “child” prior to the bell ringing, but hey I’m just a conspiracy nut, the fact is the blog’s tone is changing, and for the worse.
At first, every day was exciting to log on and catch up on the day’s revelations, now I find myself skipping corrupted threads in the hope of finding something of interest.
I hope it is not true that I detect a waning of editorial interest in what has been a fantastic groundbreaking success for Barbados ( maybe even its finest hour )
but if it is so your legacy in the spawning of so many Bajan clones will always be remembered.
If I have misinterpreted please take back control and re-establish BFP as the standard bearer of investigative reportage,
proponents of integrity and upholders of good taste.
I tend to agree with you Straight talk.
I think BFP may have hit a nerve somewhere.
Under the circumstances it may be time for BFP to break some new ground.
Look forward to this.
Hi Folks
Yup… we’ve been working all day and come back to find that the tone of some of the comments has turned really nasty.
Yes, it has changed the tone of the blog and we don’t like it.
Yes… we think it is a “spoiling” move.
Yes… we are going to purge such nasty stuff. It is a tough call because we believe in freedom of speech…. but we also believe in our right to have our community.
Those who want to take the conversation lower are welcome to their own community.
So here we go…
Where be ma “delete” button? Oh yes’m… here we go…
I’m with Straight talk and looking forward on this.
I’m sorry to say BFP seems to have lost its way of late and (it has to has to be said) some of its credibilty.
For example, why did we hear nothing more about the Adrian Loveridge burglary/fire story?
And above all else, whatever happened to the much-hyped expose of a money laundering scandal that we were promised months ago?
Don’t let this site become a second-rate gossip blog, BFP.
I used to come here every day. Not anymore…
The pressures on BFP administrators must be tremendous, I can only imagine what they are, success – and BFP is a success – can be a heavy load, as it often brings new pressures and responsibilities.
For those of us who have the interest of BFP at heart, perhaps it is best not to allow ourselves to be sucked into debates or discussions whose sole purpose seems, not to gain enlightenment or a different perspective on issues, but to focus on lewd language and offensive material.
Perhaps at times it is best to ignore certain commentators, that some adults can express themselves in such a way on a public forum, is beyond me.
************************
BFP replies…
Thanks for your kind words, Yardbroom. “Success” (ie: consistently in the Top 100 WordPress blogs in the world) has brought a price alright… several thousand “spam” comments per day. Each one must be looked at by a real person, lest we accidentally delete some of the very worthwhile contributions from our readers.
Here I am far from home in a hotel in the wee hours of the morning sorting through spam. Over 1500 so far in the last two hours. I see Clive just posted something and it is a good thing because now I can get some shuteye.
Goodnight All!
Robert somewhere in the US South.
BFP is the biggest threat to the present incumbent government.
Attempts to minimise it will not always be overt and obvious.
BFP can expect to be under attack as elections draw near.
Keep up the great work BFP. We will do our best to help however we can.
why is it so hard for police who want to leave for another force getting licks like peas from the commisssioner dottin. Why he want them to suffer and hwt he threatening the other persons who want these people to work cause he is the president od the overall commisioners board. is this fair shed some light. i think he should wake up and smell the coffee. he at the top of the food chain let other get some too. be a resonable man or is this beneath u. Mr. Commissioner
BFP
Help me to understand the guidelines for postings articles.
Is this something you want?
Is there a size limit?
Are there any taboo topics?
Do you respond to submissions that are not acceptable? (indicating why they are not)
etc
*****************
BFP Replies…
Hello Bush Tea,
We, and probably our readers, wish that we were better organised around here but the simple truth is that this part-time blog has grown beyond any expectation and we are having a difficult time handling the moderation of comments to everyone’s satisfaction.
Firstly, you must understand that EVERY comment that is sent to the blog has to be looked at by a real person.
Yesterday we received almost TWO THOUSAND comments of which the vast majority were commercially sent “spam” comments advertising everything from viagra to Nigerian “I need help to move 14 million dollars” frauds.
We have moderation software that “automatically” sorts the comments into three categories… 1/ post immediately 2/ moderated 3/ spam.
The software is imperfect and allows us only limited control. It sometimes allows commercial spam to be posted, or dumps a valid comment in with 500 pieces of spam. (Sometimes readers think that we have deliberately deleted a comment when in fact it was sent to the “spam” pile unnoticed and we failed to see it in the batch of 500.)
If the software can’t decide about a comment, it throws it in the “moderated” pile.
Things that trigger your comment to go into the “moderated” pile are foul words, too many links in the comment (over 2) or trigger words or IP numbers that we have programmed in as a result of problem children either changing the mood and tone of the blog or straying off topic.
For instance, we had a certain person post links to “I hate the Jews” websites, so we banned his name and IP. He’s probably still here, but he will never again post under his real name. We also had certain persons launch upon an agenda to say that the United States government actually planned and executed 9/11 and that hundreds of Americans conspired to murder thousands of their fellow Americans and that Bush knew and sanctioned the murders. Please!
Such topics are banned, and if others come up that change the mood or the focus of the blog we’ll ban those too.
We cannot predict everything, but we know that we can’t just turn off the moderation. We have done that a few times and within 30 minutes the readers are screaming for us to go back to the way it was.
We are imperfect. The moderation software is imperfect and each of us has a different idea of where the limits should be.
That’s just reality.
Thanks for the feedback, BFP. Don’t get me wrong -we all respect and admire you for the work that you have been doing. I also know that you have explained this before and ALL reasonable persons understand the situation.
I genuinely wanted to know if you welcome (clean, thoughtful, and provocative) posts from readers.
I noticed that you ignored a few attempts from me and really wanted guidance.
As far as moderation, delays and the general work that you are doing – Barbados can never repay its debt to your group…. believe me.
BFP not sure that I am taken with the images besides the recently posted comments as they take away a lot of the subject area of the comment and it becomes that much more difficult at a glance to see who has posted on what subject.
Just my opinion for what it is worth.
********************
Hi WIV
Us too! They magically appeared and seem to be an “update” to the WordPress system. We’re trying to dump them.
Cliverton???? You there? We could use some help.
Done!
Bad things be gone!
LIAT FARE ‘TO FALL’
Good news for Travellers
Minister of Tourism Noel Lynch
Publication: Daily Nation 6/4/07
THERE’S good news for travellers who have been groaning about the high cost of airline tickets in the Caribbean.
At last, airfares should be coming down.
However, they will have to wait until the merger of LIAT (1974) Limited and Caribbean Star is finalised.
The prediction of lower fares was made by Minister of Tourism Noel Lynch yesterday during the Sunday Brasstacks radio call-in programme on Starcom Network.
Lynch said the two airlines were moving to rationalise “all services” under the much-talked-about merger plan and one result was that “you should see a reduction in airfares”. He gave no clear timeframe but spoke of fares falling “eventually”.
Barbados has a major stake in LIAT, which for years has struggled with debt, and Lynch is seen as the Government’s chief spokesman on the airline.
St Vincent Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said during the programme that his government was worried about the high cost of travel between Barbados and his country.
He disclosed that “representation” had been made to Barbados “and they’re looking at the issue”.
He indicated that taxes and “add-ons” had helped to push ticket prices high across the Caribbean, accounting for over 20 per cent of the cost of travel between Barbados and St Vincent.”I understand the problem because they (Barbados) have to pay for the airport,” he added.
LIAT chairman Jean Holder acknowledged that airfares were higher than he would have liked, but pointed out: “We are able to cover our costs and to stop from going back to the public treasury at these fares.
“If these fares are higher than the public wants them to be or that some governments want them to be, then we need to have a meaningful discussion and serious plans about how we are going to deal with this.”
He stressed that LIAT could not operate with “mixed mandates and mixed agendas”, being asked to operate as a commercial business on the one hand and on the other told to do “social work” for 22 regional countries.
If that is to be the case, then the government shareholders would have to introduce the notion of “some form of subsidy for a public service”, he said.
Successes of the BLP
THE DEMOCRATIC LABOUR PARTY (DLP) has been boasting about the crowds attending their public meetings and has publicly stated that the support is an indication of the likely results of the upcoming election. By this logic, the poor attendance at their meeting at Oistins last Sunday night, is also an indication of the election results.
The party that will lead this country following the next election is the party that best articulates and can maintain our social, economic and political stability and can provide imaginative development proposals for this country’s advancement. The DLP lacks that level of maturity and intellectual grasp of the issues. When the current platform of personality attacks and the old talk about who is expired and tired are over, Thompson and the DLP would still have to tell Barbadians how they intend to maintain and surpass their current standard of living – a task which they have so far failed miserably to do.
The DLP’s strategy for the coming election will be to attack the success achieved in the economy and attempt to convince Barbadians that nothing was achieved under this Barbados Labour Party (BLP) administration. However, Barbadians know that much has been accomplished and even more is expected for Barbados from a continuing expanding economy.
Since the BLP assumed office in 1994, the level of unemployment for the fourth quarter of 2006 has fallen to 7.6% as compared to 26.2% for the first quarter of 1993 under the DLP. The exceedingly high level of unemployment under Thompson and the Dems was a result of their disastrous economic policies that left thousands of Barbadians without jobs, homes and any hope for a real future.
Under this BLP administration, the tourism sector, in spite of the 9/11 disaster, has expanded to provide the necessary foreign exchange that has been instrumental in Barbadians being able to afford to import the large number of motor vehicles and consumer durables to make lives meaningful. The increase in the imports of construction materials and capital goods has resulted in the expansion of the construction sector and greater industrial plant capacity hence creating substantial job opportunities.
A major point of significance of the success of the tourism sector is the fact that at no point in the life of this BLP administration have our largest hotels – Sandy Lane, Hilton, Paradise Beach and Sam Lord’s – been all functioning at the same time. With no more than two of these hotels operating at the same time, the sector expanded. The projected loss of income to the tourism sector through the closure of any of these hotels could be of the order of $120 million and this would seriously impact on the employment opportunities of many Barbadians.
Considerable expansion in the housing stock has been achieved as Barbadians continue to purchase homes and the commercial banks continue to show mortgage lending at an all time high. Higher incomes and improved employment opportunities have worked to produce the strong demand for goods and services.
The manufacturing sector has rebounded as seen by the high level of exports of locally produced goods due mainly to the many incentives extended to the industry. Domestic exports (other than sugar and molasses) have expanded from $208 million in 1994 to over $480 million in 2006 – an increase of $272 million. In comparison, between 1986 and 1994 under the DLP, the domestic exports (other than sugar and molasses) fell from $364 million to $207 million – a fall of $157 million.
These are some of the successes of this BLP administration.
Cave’s CWC take more than 1/4m
HARRISON’S CAVE earned more than a quarter-million dollars in the month that it opened for the Cricket World Cup tournament.
The cave, now being substantially redeveloped by Government, attracted 10 759 visitors to its St Thomas location and earned $353 950.80 in gross sales while opened between April 1 and May 5.
This was revealed in Parliament yesterday by Minister of Energy and the Environment Liz Thompson who, during debate on a resolution to approve the guarantee by the Minister of Finance of some US$16.8 million (BDS$33.6 million) to be borrowed from the Caribbean Development Bank to redevelop Harrison’s Cave, was called on by Opposition MP Ronald Jones to give these revenue figures.
“We would like to know how much money was made during that preliminary re-opening (Cricket World Cup). This kind of information is important to the society,” Jones said while contributing to the debate.
The minister said that part of the cave’s redevelopment, representing an overall Government investment of $51 million, would be to create linkages between it and other surrounding heritage tourism sites such as Welchman Hall Gully, the Flower Forest and Jack-In-The-Box Gully.
She said discussion was ongoing to institute a single ticket admission fee for all of these sites – both for locals and visitors.
She said it would be a joint collaboration between the public and private sectors, and was expected to be a success.
“A person who has an interest in a nature-based package can get a single ticket which will allow them to visit all of these facilities . . . and that will save them money, but also by selling the tickets as a package guarantees income and throughput for the various facilities,” she explained.
A shop offering souvenirs and other gift items is also being planned as an addition to Harrison Cave’s revenue stream, Thompson added.
She also noted that several land acquisitions had to be undertaken to facilitate the cave’s redevelopment; and there were therefore a number of people due for compensation.
She added that all of the residents whose properties would be used either partially or in full had been contacted by the National Heritage Department, Ministry of Housing and Lands, and the Land Surveyors Department, and had retained attorneys to handle the negotiations.
“DLP confusing voters”
GOVERNMENT has accused the Opposition of attempting to create “mass confusion” among voters ahead of the upcoming General Election constitutionally due in mid-2008.
Minister of Commerce Senator Lynette Eastmond told the Senate yesterday she was concerned that some individuals, in order to win a seat, were prepared to destroy institutions built up over time, including the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC).
Eastmond, who was acting as Leader of Public Business, was piloting an amendment to the Representation of the People Act to increase the number of voters in a polling district from 1 000 to 1 500, following a recommendation by the EBC.
She stressed that contrary to the impression being created, the change had nothing to do with constituency boundaries but only polling districts, and while people would remain within their constituencies, they might vote in another “box” or polling district.
“I cannot go along with destroying our institutions and creating mass confusion in the minds of Barbadians by suggesting to them that boundaries have been changed when they have not been changed.”
Eastmond also introduced an amendment to the act removing an anomaly which prevented members of the EBC from entering polling stations and counting centres
Can we take David’s word?
IF EVER THE ELECTORATE of Barbados needed clarification of the new political philosophy that now informs the politics of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) it was given at their political meeting at Brittons Hill, St Michael, on Sunday, May 20.
Speaker after speaker served up what is now the adopted political philosophy of this intellectually weak team of Thompsonites. The entire meeting was shrouded in the language of their philosophy of “tit for tat, butter for fat” – an expression that reflects the intellectual depth of the man who now leads the fragment of an institution that once bore the flagship of our political development. The new DLP has become the shelter for notorious personalities and the home of political vagrants.
It is therefore of no surprise to hear of comments attributed to the speakers at the meeting. What else can one expect from a meeting of such personalities? The “tit for tat, butter for fat” approach by the DLP is one that has determined that to attack is the best line of defence. It is a principle the Dems have adopted as a result of their inability to deal with the socio-economic realities in Barbados. And what are those realities?
The challenge to the DLP in this election is not how to reduce the level of unemployment from 24 per cent as it was in 1993, but how to maintain the current employment level of about 9.2 per cent.
It would not be about rebuilding our foreign reserves from two weeks’ supply of import cover but about maintaining the current internationally accepted level of 12 months’ supply. It would certainly not be about looking for tax relief for private and corporate citizens but about retaining the current relief on property taxes for small property owners and small businesses.
The DLP would not be asked to develop a physical and technological infrastructure that would position the country to take full advantage of the benefits to be derived from the highly competitive global market. Instead it would be asked how it will maintain the current infrastructure.
Indeed, all across this country whether it be in health, housing, education or the environment, this country Barbados has advanced by leaps and bounds from where we were in the early 1990s when Thompson was Minister of Finance. It was a period that no Barbadian shall ever forget.
Today, this same Thompson criticises everything this Government does and professes that he can do better. Can we take his word? The answer to this question can be found in the manner in which he led the DLP. He has presided over the largest ever exodus of that party’s membership, due largely to his lack of conviction and trust in black working-class Barbadians.
It can be found in the manner in which he manages the affairs of the Public Accounts Committee. There must be a fundamental flaw in the management style and personality of someone who sees everything and everyone around him as corrupt but when given the powers to correct the corruption does absolutely nothing.
Of what single political act can we attribute to Thompson that best demonstrates his conviction and love for politics and his interest in people? For other than his self-serving interest we have found none. From Sir Grantley to the Right Honorable Owen Arthur the distinction to serve people and country, long before becoming prime ministers, was established. Where is Thompson’s badge of honour?
Ladies and gentlemen, let us look before we leap remembering always that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Yuh finish now, Blabbermouth fool?
Re Harrisons Cave:
There is a very down-market looking signed diagonally nailed onto the Harrisons Cave entrance sign at the main road that says “CLOSED”.
It doesn’t say, “Upgrading to serve you better in 2007″. It doesn’t say, “Bear with us while we try to improve and we’ll soon serve you better.”
Nope, it says “CLOSED”.
Every time I drive by I think, this is stupid. How many people read this sign and wonder what is going on in Bim?
Barbados deserves better. I would appeal to the BTA to rectify this immediately.
Come royal idiot give it a rest with these extracts from the blp website a sad excuse of a site I may add!!
this maybe anoher example of being our finest hour ask lynch about this.
I wish that you would write an article on Bajan men coming to Cayman and running a scam on local women. Look at the latest one: http://www.dwainbrathwaite.com
Look what I find
Above ‘Going for David’ says :Indeed, all across this country whether it be in health, housing, education or the environment, this country Barbados has advanced by leaps and bounds from where we were in the early 1990s when Thompson was Minister of Finance. It was a period that no Barbadian shall ever forget.
Health – QEH is a mess
Housing – the average bajan now cannot afford a peice of land let alone a house for it
Education – I have heard too many reports of the schools being rife with teacher absenteeism, bad behaved students, poor control and last but not least the availability of drugs in the schools to think this education is in an acceptable shape. The we have those schools that are falling apart and in addition to those that have already been adandoned.
The Government have had twelve years to fix these problems, so cannot blame on cumulative effect prior to that twelve years.
Environment – against reputable experts, local knowledge AND commonsense Government has refused to change their action on Greenland. But, guess what? After many years the site is still inoperative, which indicates that it has already failed as an alternate site and any attempt to use it will ultimately end in disaster.
Then we have the Graeme Hall area and the national controversy that Government has refused to address publicly, to give an answer to the future use of this area. Such lack of explanation indicates at least one of two things or both. Either that Government does not think it needs to advise the public on National events, in any case this is seen as downright arrogance and Government may or may not have an intention to develop or have developed green area, into concrete. But, we will not know the second matter, when the first is evident, will we?
So, ‘Going for David’ either has rose-tinted glasses or is merely spouting the ‘party-line’.
Sounds like a story is brewing on the Hilton Hotel dispute settlement but of course the final contract is confidential.
Emirates of Dudai is part of UAE with OLI OIL u can’t put Dudai next to Barbados that’s what the DLP would do DUDAI IS CALL THE DESERT’S MOST EXCITING CITY.
There are person’s is Dudai how’s bank accounts this in more money than the Central Bank and RBTT so how can u BFS put Dudai next to Barbados
Dudai Location:
Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi Arabia
Dubai boasts one of the largest retail gold markets in the world, selling everything from ingots to intricately worked jewellery at bargain prices. The street-front stores hide alleys of smaller shops with glittering show windows.
On 2 December 1971 Dubai, together with Abu Dhabi and five other emirates, formed the United Arab Emirates after former protector Britain left the Persian Gulf in 1971. In 1973, Dubai joined the other emirates to adopt a single, uniform currency: the UAE dirham.
Population
The population of the UAE as of 2001 was estimated to be 3,290,000. The population of Dubai was estimated to be 971,000. The UAE is a highly cosmopolitan environment and a large part of the population are non-UAE nationals, primarily a mix of other Arab nationals, Asians and Europeans. 80% of Dubai’s population is comprised of expatriates with Europeans and Asians accounting for approximately 70% of households. Approximately 71% of the population is male and 29% is female. The UAE population is expected to grow by 3.3% per annum to reach 4.15 million by 2010. Dubai is expected to have a population of 1.4 million by 2010.
To Rumplestilskin from Going for David –talk talk talk that’s all the DLP is a lot of talk on action.
U have to get out more i hope when u have to go the the QEH do not go, go to hospitals like St. Vincent, Guyana or T &T i have seen all of them so the next time u have a health affairs go to The QEH OK;;;;; Barbados his one of the best hospitals in the Caribbean.
Housing – “get out more” all the house’s that are going up in Barbados are 90% Bajan House’s
Environment – Ha Ha call Liz oh? “u need to get out more” Rumplestilskin take a look at Barbados whow?? Barbados is touch by Beauty, look at the Best Of Barbados all over Barbados – the SSA good job.
“u need to get out more” go to a tent Cave Shepherd Allstars, Bacchanal time or De Big Show the songs are not going for Owen, take a note Mr Rumplestilskin if Barbados is all that bad y are the song’s from the Tent not “going” for the Government
Going for David you are living in a fools paradise, if you are not able to see the ills of this country you are either a pathic sick liar or Noless Lynch.
Tell me about your reaction to Owing depositing that cheque, tell me about the scam that has stolen from us the taxpayers over $ 200 million and counting in the prison project, tell us about Nicholls and Owing’s partnership in the deal to import 2,500 slot machines into this island, tell me about the wild over costing on the bath that Liz Thompson’s husband built, tell us about Edutech and who collected was it friends of Mottley’S, tell us about the scam at the board of Tourism in London, tell us about the scam with the flyovers Bannister and Nicholls and Clarke once again in the mix.
Could you really want more evidence of corruption and stealing?
Look around every where there is plenty to see and learn that there is a new level and breed of corruption taking place in this land of ours.
Dear BFP It appears that after a day of trying to get comments posted it still is not happening.
Have I been banned or what really is the matter it is very fustrating.
*******************
BFP Replies…
Hello WIV
I believe that Auntie Moses sent you to your room for the weekend after you AGAIN posted sexual innuendo in a comment. (And yes, it was you at your IP)
So you were dropped to “moderate all the time” and told so in a response to your comment.
I’ll take you off moderate now, but try not to incur the wrath of Auntie Moses as she is in a foul mood this weekend after catching Cliverton doing something that he promised he wouldn’t do anymore.
Robert
BFP Replies…
Hello WIV
I believe that Auntie Moses sent you to your room for the weekend after you AGAIN posted sexual innuendo in a comment. (And yes, it was you at your IP)
So you were dropped to “moderate all the time” and told so in a response to your comment.
I’ll take you off moderate now, but try not to incur the wrath of Auntie Moses as she is in a foul mood this weekend after catching Cliverton doing something that he promised he wouldn’t do anymore.
Robert
To Curious and Wishing in Vain
WHERE ARE YOUR FACTS ALL YOU HAVE IS “TALK TALK TALK ”
To All Bajan’s that will vote how read BFS, this page/”BFS” is all about “A lot of talk” NO FACTS at all This page/”BFS” is for the shareholders of the DLP not for the people of Barbados.
You call this Free Press if you had the Government Lord help us.
Curious and Wishing in Vain — you are the one’s that’s living in a fools paradise ” DAVID PARADISE” the people of Barbados with give it to you in 2008
When i put the FACT on the page/BFP i call it Barbados free SH—– BFS
The person’s that run this page from George St. do not make the right move to Debate my facts y BFS have to Fact’s all they have is “a lot of long Talk”
That’s ” DAVID PARADISE”
When i put the FACT on the page/BFP i call it Barbados free SH—– BFS
The person’s that run this page from George St. do not make the right move to Debate my facts y BFS have no Fact’s all they have is “a lot of long Talk”
That’s ” DAVID PARADISE”
FACT: 12 years on and a pot of money and Greenland is still not functional
FACT: The public still does not have financial reporting on GEMS
FACT: The prison burnt despite serious warnings from Rev Gordon Matthews of the impending disaster, which were ignored. Now we have a severely overbudget prison
FACT: The QEH, by EVERYONE’S admission, is in a mess
FACT: The Government has borrowed hand over fist to support capital projects which have not improved the social or economic life here.
You want more?
Rump, I’m surprised you were able to decipher that mumbo-jumbo that you replied to – especially the bit about BFP being run from George Street. I’m also surprised BFP haven’t queried that.
God Bless him David’s post may be hard to decipher, but he does have a point.
Nearly two years on, with rumour, inuendo and blatant fait accompli, BFP and all we, the concerned Bajans, who post incessantly have not come up with one shred of concrete evidence.
Circumstantial won’t do, for the rape of Barbados.
We need a high quality whistleblower ( or BFP’s now phantom money laundering proof ) to nail this percieved corruption.
In the absence of such we are whistling in the dark.
Yes, Rumple,
At the risk of appearing to defend the B’s, I do want more. There has been a lot of vitriol and innuendo spewed about corruption of government members, but it has been short on facts and evidence. If you and Curious were to go into court with the “evidence” you have presented here, you would be laughed all the way down to the mental. At the very most you have evidence of incompetence. This is an open anonymous forum. Present some real and verifiable evidence. Innuendo will not do. But if you can’t pee, for God’s sake, get off the po, you are only impressing the gullible
The only “evidence” that has been presented here so far is the $750,000 cheque. Do you think Owen would still be leader of the party if his explanation was not acceptable to the other party members? You acknowledge that it has not come from the public purse, but still you say that it is corrupt. Who is the donor? What does the donor stand to gain from the supposed bribe. This is information that is required in my court of law for a corruption charge in this matter to stick.
Pee or get off the po.
”At the very most you have evidence of incompetence”
Check my posts. When I have I ever alleged corruption. I have indeed referred to incompetence.
And if you do not think that a designated garbage disposal site being not implemented after a vast sum of money, after 12 years is in of itself hard and blatant evidence of incompetence; if you do not think that after 12 years and a couple of hundred million dollars the lack of presentation of financial reporting to the stakeholders i.e. taxpayers of GEMS is not of itself hard evidence of incompetence or negligence; if you do not think that the Hospital remaining in a mess and getting worse every day (not by innuendo but admission by all and sundry including doctors) is in of itself not hard evidence of incompetence or negligence, then I take your offer in your first sentence and accept that you are indeed merely defending the current administration, for the sake of defence, without accepting the serious deficiencies that exist and warrant urgent attention.
And I will not ‘get off the po’. It is indeed a democratic right to speak freely of opinion and nothing that I have said, if you check, could be ‘be challenged in a Court of Law’ to which you refer, as I have said nothing defamatory in of itself.
What I seek, rightfully so, is the useful and appropriate application of our resources, such that these are spent to the benefit of this Nation, of all Barbadians.
Further, to rely on a ‘whistleblower’ is both unnecessary, as I have stated the evidence is there for all to see so we do not need such, secondly, the information whcih you suggest we provide, has not been provided by the relevant powers that be, for example, the detailed reporting on GEMS, which is in itself a problem.
Every large company worldwide has to present statements for all to see, in a timely manner.
But the administration has not, even in 12 years, but you cannot see ‘evidence’ of incpmpetence?
Do you think such large private companies would accept such overruns as have been occurring on every project?
No, heads would roll. But, you do not see ‘evidence’ of incompetence?
Ah, nothing so blind as those that will not see.
I am being moderated.
By the way, the HUGE mistake being made by those that come on here attacking the DLP is assuming that we are all DLP supporters.
The reason this is such a huge mistake is that we are average Bajans and not ‘pushing the party line’ as they are, but merely stating what others on the street are already saying. We are only stating our concerns because we want our Nation to succeed, not for any others reason, but perhaps those with biased vision and specifically a party bias cannot understand such a concept.
What does this mean?
It probably means something like:
20/10 at the next election.
Guess who gets the 20? And ‘we’ will still be posting here, be assured.
yes, Rumple, and we will be watching and breating down their necks
Rumplestilskin,
We are on the same page as far as the incompetence is concerned, the wastage on the garbage dump, Gems, edutech is clearly unacceptable and at best negligent. Now that you have pointed out that you have not been on the corruption bandwagon, a fact which I missed, I apologize for lumping you together with Curious and WIV who keep spouting unsubstantiated charges of corruption ad nauseam. They offend my sense of fair play.
Inkwell if you have any doubt about corruption in this island you have your head stuck in the sand, I can direct you to people who were very closely involved in the quotation for the prison and they will tell you that Hallam Nicholls lold them unless he was paid a 5 % faciliators fee they would not get the contract they refused and look what happened low and behold it was awarded to VECO and he did better that the 5 % he picked up $ 200 million in excess of the true cost, the same also applies to the proposed sewage treatment plant for the west coast another request for $ 20 million that the group refused to pay and loss or not heard anything more of this project.
If you honestly doubt that there is corruption and the extent of it then you living somewhere else and not Barbados.
BFP,
I was reading posts on the DLP website blog and came across some outrageous statements made by one T.D. Allamby about you (BFP). Among other things you are being accused of being pro-DLP. I would never have thought so! There is something very familiar about T.D. Allamby’s posts. He seems to be a very angry and unsettled person and can’t stand criticism. Sounds familiar?????
I am being moderated.
BFP: Can you please explain to me why my post was moderated? I had only mentioned to you that you should visit the DLP blog to read the accusations being made against you by a Commentator.
*****************
BFP replies
Hello “Anonymous”
Your post was automatically moderated for whatever reason the computer had in it’s little brain. We are not in total control of the moderation programme, but we will now approve the post for viewing.
We certainly don’t moderate posts because they are critical of BFP. If we did that, we’d loose too many!
george
Hello, this is a long shot question…It has long been an ambition of mine to ‘stay’ in Barbadoes for an extended time (3-4 months) to work on some writing. Ideally I would like to find a small picturesque and private house rental that is secure and well maintained. Some years ago I stayed in Jamaica at the Citronella on the south side of Negril in an ocean side self-contained 2 storey ‘hut’: it was perfect. If anyone has any ideas who or where to find such a non-touristy ‘barefoot’ paradise, please do drop me a line. Aiming for next summer, 2008, from July to October, plus or minus. Thanks.
BOOKED
SOLID
It’s a bumper
Crop-Over season and the flights are all full – coming and going!
That was the picture painted by travel agencies contacted by The
NATION yesterday.
One travel agent described the season as tremendous, and said one of the results was higher fares for people wishing
to leave the island.
Some travellers will have to “sit tight until the summer season is over”, the agent said.
At Value Vacations, one travel agent summed it up this way: “For the United States, any person looking for something reasonable will have to travel post Labour Day.”
“Both American Airlines and Air Jamaica are full almost every day and it has been hectic
for the two carriers.”
The agent said that Virgin Atlantic and British Airways were
also heavily booked
and in some instances there was nothing available at all, not even in the first-class section.
At Going Places Travel the sentiments were
the same. An agent said flights to London cost
$2 486 for travellers who already had their tickets.
“If not, you would have to travel club/business class for $6 416.90,”
the agent said.
She noted that flights for Guyana were also sold out, revealing that “one man was so desperate
to get home, that he paid $997 for first class.
The usual trip right now ranges between
$500 and $615.50”.
Prices for New York before Crop-Over
were ranging
around $2 104.90.
The Travel House
too said it had “extremely full bookings”.
“Everything coming into the island is really full. The Caribbean, London, New York and Miami – they are all sold out and have been
sold out since June.
“The last three weeks in July right up to September are completely sold out, unless of course you want to pay
first class.”
This agent noted that right now a flight
to St Lucia would cost around $389 but if you had no ticket, then you would have to pay
$800 to $900 or just
“sit tight”.
Greetings, I plan on coming to Barbados for some r&R but, since I’m in the media business it’s hard not to resist looking for a good interview or new content. I will also create a blog on Bronxmedia to follow and track some of the places,people and things which will keep me busy while I try to get some R&r. Feel free to contact me… I enjoy networking.
I’ve been informed that the HUGE house on Highway 3 (from Lears roundabout towards Bournes village, Dayrells Hill I think, up on the right) painted a sort of terracotta pink, is Dale Marshalls new residence. Is this true? I thought it was a hotel!
I am truly saddened at that awful trajedy, where people were going to have a fun time but did not make it. The thoughts of all Barbadians all over the world are with you all there. Please know that the Divine hand of God is holding the family up and the prayers of my family and myself are with them at this sad time. May Fod bless you and keep you
I am truly saddened at that awful trajedy, where people lost their lives and others are seriously injured. The thoughts of all Barbadians all over the world are with you all there. Please know that the Divine hand of God is holding the families up and the prayers of my family and myself are with them at this sad time. May God bless you and keep you.
Why did the union allow a banks holdings company, BBc to bring in a trinidadian to manage the company and he is giving staff pure hell.
Prostitute of the world
Something to think about.
A program aired on BBC 2 this week showing a view of Barbados
which very few at home are likely to see or even hear about.
It was not just about our sunshine, and our beautiful seas and the
friendly people tourists meet when they visit the island, it was
PRIMARILY about the fact that ‘our beautiful Barbados’ is no
longer ours, and has not been for a long time.
The presenter went to various parts of the island and to the homes of
several
‘foreigners’ that now call Barbados their home.
One of his visits in particular was literally horrifying and extremely
disturbing,
as it showed an European lady saying quite candidly to the camera
that she has to teach ‘them’- the local servants- how to do
everything, that they are very slow and simple-minded and even had
to tell them not to serve champagne on a plastic tray.
They all MUST sing her a welcome home song when she returns from her
villa
overseas. She sits in the garden on a bench, with how
appropriate, a parasol, sipping on some lemonade as the servants
sing to her (What images does this conjure up in your minds?).
These servants are all outfitted in uniforms with hats.
One of the female ‘servants’ said to the presenter that her whole house
was
the size of the lady’s room she was tidying.
Another male servant says he ‘likes’ when he gets lots of orders cause
at
least he
would have something to do, rather than being bored.
Sometimes the lady calls for a drink of water and wants it served to
her
in
the
garden- sometimes he makes this trip several times a day whenever
she needs the water.
The presenter also interviewed some local fishermen who were likely and
most probably will lose their
property which faces the sea.
Not that the sea will reclaim the land, no instead these men may or
will
lose their land that has
been handed down to them for generations and would have passed to
their children and grandchildren, to the real estate investors or
to the non-nationals that are wiling to pay him $7 million, only
to sell it again for 15 million! on a website.
The presenter researched the past of these beach properties that have
now
gained
immeasurable importance, and found some rather surprising and
ironic facts.
Back in the day of the aftermath of slavery, the
beach property was left abandoned by the planter class for the
newly freed slaves as it was thought that it would be illogical to
build any house or to sustain life on beach property.
Furthermore the concept of the itchy sand, the glare from the sun and
the
pesty sand flies were all reasons why the more attractive, lush,
inland plantation properties were perceived as priceless.
The program showed that over 2/3 of the land on the west coast are in
the hands of non-nationals.
And the very few locals that are still there, are struggling to combat
the
land tax nightmare that goes
along with having Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland, Glitter Bay and
Port St. Charles within close proximity.
The interesting factor about this entire program was that the presenter
was
a
non-national who was speaking with genuine and great concern for
the future of Barbados and her children – Barbadians.
He asked various non-nationals that if part of the reason for visiting
the
island was also to interact with the locals why are they encouraging
these
injustices to happen.
He is of the opinion that the locals are being PUSHED out of their
homes
to
accommodate
non-nationals who ALREADY have their homes, sometimes more than
one house in other parts of the world.
Ultimately, the program was a stark view of the realities of life in
Barbados.
For a long time, the ‘take over’ has been on going, unhindered,
happening
in
absolute plain sight.
What did we do? In St. Lucia, unless the law has recently been
changed,
no
one who is not St.
Lucian can own property there.
The land is leased to anyone for an agreed number of years.
This concept is not unique for the Caribbean, there was an attempt by a
few
draftsmen to introduce and enact this legislature.
But unfortunately, in was deemed unpopular and never enforced.
But who is to blame here? We are of course.
The fields and hills that we once called our very own, now belong to
someone
else, who thinks we are ‘slow and simple’, and that we don’t know
or appreciate the true value of land, our land – Barbados.
We have long turned our back our country. We have never paid an
interest
in
her and what she means to us. We have been too consumed with cars
and motorbikes, sex and alcohol, the latest model in cell phones
and what we will wear to the next ‘bashment’.
We cannot accuse these ‘aliens’ for stealing what was ours, all they
did
was
appreciate what we have not.
I truly love Barbados- the country and some of the people who live
there.
This program made it real to me all that we have lost or given away.
Barbados has become the ‘Prostitute of the World’ – she never refuses
high
paying
customers and tries wherever and whenever possible to be more
attractive, alluring and accommodating to her customers with more
hotels, extensive golf courses, exclusive restaurants and sports
clubs that will never be accessed by the general populace.
But, its not entirely her fault, where would she have been without us,
her ‘Pimps’.
From layman to politician, we have stood aside, passively or actively
encouraging our beautiful country to be
‘shagged’ by everyone else for the sake of buck$.
Has it been worth it? I once was born, was raised and lived on a
beautiful
island, which I dare to say was my very own. But after
watching and cringing as I viewed what we have allowed to happen,
I realise that I have lost my country before my own eyes.
Some very thoughtful notes indeed, very well said.
Breaking News.
Cow and Bizzy taking over more land. At least they are 100 % BAJAN.
Breaking News too
Was in a police station today and heard someone is to be charged with fraud playing with some currency, will advise when more news becomes available but seems like a new crime taking place.
Dogbitemuh:
Very interesting piece and sounds accurate. I wonder if CBC will air the program (sic).
Your point on ownership is sound, leasing and/ or only allowing a specific maximum square footage for house lots is the way to go.
For example, why does anyone need a house lot greater than 20,000 square feet, unless it is on a farm (productive)?
Additionally, instead of pushing locals to apartments and condos, the locals should own houses and let the condo sales go to foreigners, this could be incorporated into the relevant legislation i.e. allow only leasing of single houses to foreigners but allow condo sales to foreigners, thus increasing the ‘holiday dewlling’ market but leaving the land and houses to locals, apart from the few who are willing to lease.
As for the ‘lady’ enjoying the attention of the servants, I guess she is paying for illusion that they actually respect her as a ‘foreigner’ and they are supplying the illusion, much as an actor does.
Nevertheless, I would not cow-tow to anyone.
I cant take credit for the article guys. It was sent to me via email and I thought I would share it.
Sewdas Sadhu Shiva Mandir on the sea at Waterloo, Trinidad has been desecrated. Murtis of Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh, Hannuman Baba and Mother Durga were destroyed.
Condolences and best wishes to the community at Waterloo from all religions of Barbados. We hope that this act was the result of ignorance, rather than malevolence.
May your temple be preserved, and may you be allowed to live in peace.
Dogbitemuh
Yeah, I got that email too.
Made a few enquiries (via http://www.bbc.co.uk)
There is no record of a programme of this description having been broadcast by the BBC on any of its stations.
Seems that the email is bogus.
If you find out otherwise and can provide links, please let me know.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/lifestyle/html/20070806T220000-0500_125997_OBS_MR_VEGAS__TEK_WEH__CROP_OVER.asp
Mr vegus has his act together.look at the press report.
I am writing this to bring to the attention of the public, as it concerns the matter of one holding a Gun License, under the issuance and thereby authority of The Commissioner of Police, to ‘Have, Use and Carry’ a firearm under the Firearms Act of Barbados.
Earlier today (July 16th,) I had a business meeting with some personnel of the Central Bank of Barbados. On entry of the Tom Adams Financial Centre I was advised of new security procedures at the centre and I immediately asked about the provision for carriers of licensed firearms, such as myself.
I was first ushered to another security guard/officer who advised that with the new security procedures I could not continue onwards whilst armed. I indicated that I had no problem with this, understanding their requirement considering security issues, yet when I asked whether they had a provision to securely hold my firearm until I had completed my business; I was told there was none.
At this time I asked to speak to their head of security to ascertain why with this new security measure there was no provision made for persons who carried licensed firearms. This is the main focus of this letter even though I may digress at times to make my point.
As one such as myself who has held positions on the committees of shooting associations, including the Barbados Shooting Union, I would assume that there would be a safe place to store any such licensed firearms and a receipt stating at least the serial number of the firearm and the number of cartridges/magazine clip contained, and the License No. of the firearm for reference, which would be used to retrieve one firearms upon leaving, along with normal identification measures, etc. Certainly a simple procedure like this would suffice.
Anyway, I met with their Security Head and explained my position, which including my lamentations on how they could put in such a security system without making provision for licensed firearm holders, which may or may not of hit a sensitive area but I am a very frank person. After a brief discussion, he told me that he could not discuss the subject any further at that time and suggested that I carry my firearm to Central Police Station and then come back for my meeting. I told him that that was not acceptable to me, as it would have made me quite late for my meeting and more importantly a waste of my time each time I had business at the centre. So I therefore left the building after apologizing to my client for not being able to take part in the meeting.
Notwithstanding all of this, the very odd thing that I could not help but notice is that the said security guards seemed not to be armed, so how could they repulse an armed incursion into the centre. Furthermore, just as potential scenario, if I had pressed my point of being legally armed and moved onto carry out my legitimate business due to pressing time limits or some such only to meet physical resistance that I felt threaten my own safety, would I be committing an illegal act to draw my firearm in defence? Somehow this does not add up.
Furthermore, I gather that this trend is moving through many other public establishments yet our legislators in their seemingly infinite wisdom have not considered the basic rights or privileges of all law abiding citizens, which include the legal holders of firearms, who may well be a minority group within the society, but then there are several other minority groups getting their rights being looked after.
I understand that, for good reason, a place such as the law courts have always had a restriction on firearms, and probably set by either precedent or common law, and now is written in the laws. However the rational for the courts does not extend to other public places which require the normal daily comings and goings of the average citizen. Yet I would expect something as a form of ‘customer service’ that a provision is made for the safe keeping of ones personal firearms.
To take this to its logical extreme, but it could be a reality in the near future, if more establishments, entities or venues start making this ‘firearm’ restriction, without making provision to safely hold personal licensed firearms, then the Police Stations could get quite inundated with frequent ins and outs requests for personal firearms – it may well be necessary to setup a special department/section for this. This could become a major administrative ordeal for the Police and for what? Indeed it only makes a farce of the legal license which has already been granted.
Of course, there are some, possible many in the general community, that will just simply go with the flow and leave their licensed firearms at home, or possibly when caught in a make or break situation will take a chance and leave it in their car or otherwise. Which is primarily contrary to the allowance and need to “Have, Use and Carry”, as per the license, and secondarily (and more serious) leaving the firearm unattended and unsecured, which may include the home too.
The question has to be asked is whether we as law-abiding citizens should be made to suffer because of a few ‘bad apples’ that are neither the ones being inconvenienced nor more importantly having their rights being compromised.
It is one thing to have laws made that are ridiculous and not properly thought out, like the inclusion of ‘toy guns’ in the Firearms Act, which I personally consider is legislation gone wild. As to whether it has gone wild with fear, over-reaction or both, it is clearly an act of extremism – which is, on reflection, no different from the acts of major crime and terrorism themselves. It is a well known fact that an elected legislature can trample a man’s (or woman’s) rights as easily as any king or dictator could, and this is where we have to be careful and watchful.
When do we say enough is enough and fight back, and by fight back, I mean stop running and hiding behind (new) laws and security regulations? If we continue like this I hate to think what kind of world our children and grandchildren will have to exist in. Note I use the words ‘exist in’ and not ‘grow up in’.
Does one have to spend money in legal fees to carry a case such as this to court in order to see whether is stands the test against the Constitution? It is all very well for lawyers in training to have their moot courts to argue and defend, but it is another when they bring this mind set into the public domain and then we have to suffer or pay dearly to see that our rights are not circumvented.
I hope that this letter will be taken in spirit that I intend and that is, although I am complaining and disagreeing with certain matters, my main intent is to stick up for what I believe in. I am not a trained orator, lawyer nor diplomat (definitely not on the last one) – just an outspoken citizen and patriot, so my apologies if I seem brash and direct in my words.
There must be some logical and common sense solution to this situation or it will get further out of hand. (Personally, I think Peter has paid enough for Paul).
Hmm, should I have put this here or is there a way to start a new subject/thread?
David, your letter is well written and addresses the conflict which a licensed user must address (and by extension the authorities).
What is the position of a Police Officer who carries a gun goes to the Central Bank while either on business or to interview someone there?
Secondly, what you have encountered is something that is rife, that is, what I call ‘segmented planning’, being measures put in place without taking account of the overall scenario and implications.
I believe that all planning should be ‘holistic’ in nature, that is, it should address all repercussions of an issue, rather than merely the issue that one is addressing as the original focal point of the planning.
This will eliminate or at least reduce the side-issues caused as a result of the implemented action.
Unfortunately, the evidence shows that most planning here in Government and Civil Service is ‘segmented’ in nature.
Today there are reports of the obliteration of the very old Old Sharon Moravian graveyard, at Old Sharon, Grand View, St. Thomas.
What a great pity it is to see this. The Moravians brought slaves into the church, and this was long years before emancipation. Moravians were mighty in the resistance to slavery and strong proponents of its abolition. Old Sharon was a historical monument and evidence to the Moravian efforts.
The traditional annual Moravian walk from Sharon (at Jackson) to Old Sharon (in Shop Hill) by the Moravians, to remember the Barbadian Christian fight against slavery has taken a body blow.
For those who do not know ‘Old Sharon’ was a small church. The Jackson location facilitated the enlargement of the church at a new location.
Let Barbadians remember the works of the Moravians, and their separate hero Sarah Ann Gill?
Please visit Old Sharon and view this historical site today.
It is in the Gap that goes up to the late Dr. and surviving Mrs. Jack Leacock’s house in Shop Hill.
Directions: Take a left in the village of Shop Hill by the block-side, drive past the houses, throug the ‘S’ bend and see the stone monument by the roadside to show where to enter Old Sharon.
Request redirection in the village of Shop Hill if necessary.
A piece of history… the fate of the island’s only nude beach.
The following is an excerpt from a popular website about Barbados:
“Barbados Beaches – Nude Bathing
There are no nude beaches and all beaches are open to the public. Nudism is actually illegal. Barbados has a history of conservative British tradition and Barbadians are not comfortable undressing or seeing others undress on public beaches. ”
It’s the last part that is incorrect…. “or seeing others undress on public beaches.”
That sentence should actually read :
“Most Barbadians are not comfortable undressing on public beaches…. but nearly all of them are delighted to see somebody else undress on a public beach.”
Long Beach, Chancery Lane, was once an “unofficial” nude beach…. even the “boys of the block” played their beach football naked on this beach…. that was until the Nation newspaper made it a story in 1980… for about two weeks it sold papers…. The Churches were up in arms putting pressure on the Police to put a stop to it.
Scores of Barbadians armed themselves with cameras and flocked to the beach hoping to get photos of the nudists. They climbed trees…. hid behind ferns…. desperately trying to conceal their presence and go undetected… but alas… the glint of light from their camera lenses gave away their positions.
I know because I was there…. and I was naked.
A Rastaman walked by me and said “ya betta put on something quick, police coming”…. And when I looked, sure enough, two officers running down the beach… the high wind blew off one of them hat… and he stopped to fetch it… so when they get by me I did dun got on me pants… but they kept going because they spied a whole family…. everybody from the grandmother right down to she grandchild all naked as dem born…
The officer took out his notebook and tried to get names… but the people were Italians and didn’t speak a word of English.
Thus and thus they “killed” the beach…. and that was a golden opportunity for Government to designate that beach a “clothing optional” beach…. but politician is spineless animal without backbone.. and they dont want to lose a vote…
so they let the churches tell them what to do rather than risk losing it.
But the real truth is that Barbados is a nation of hypocrites…. with the churches leading their flock in the practice of hypocrisy…. and every sin and vice known to man is practiced secretly…but they like it so…. and this is the way it must be.
So it’s quite OK to take off your clothes…. just keep it a secret… just make sure there are no church people around when you do it.
Do you doubt the hypocrisy ?… look at the current situation with the “Chinese workers”… but that’s another story.
Stephen
Just to clarify your point of view, was it hypocrisy for the Moravian Church of Barbados to fight for the rights of slaves?
Was it hypocrisy for the Methodist Sarah Ann Gill to fight the same battle?
Not in any way degrading or debating your personal opinion and wishes about modern-day nudity, but requesting that you clarify your understanding of the extreme importance to our National psyche re the role the church played in Bajan abolition and what the loss of Old Sharon graveyard means to the triumph over mental slavery with regard to the local Christian tradition of free thought and reconciliation of national wrongs?
http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/text/refresh/MIATCDAT4+shtml/141433.shtml
Tropical Storm DEAN Forecast Discussion
TROPICAL STORM DEAN DISCUSSION NUMBER 5
NWS TPC/NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL AL042007
1100 AM EDT TUE AUG 14 2007
SATELLITE IMAGES…MICROWAVE DATA AND QUIKSCAT MEASUREMENTS INDICATE
THAT THE DEPRESSION HAS REACHED TROPICAL STORM STATUS AND ALSO THAT
THE CENTER IS LOCATED FARTHER TO THE SOUTH AND WEST THAN PREVIOUSLY
INDICATED. DEAN HAS DEVELOPED A SMALL CENTRAL DENSE OVERCAST OVER
THE CENTER BUT MOST OF THE CONVECTION IS STILL LOCATED TO THE WEST
AND SOUTH OF THE CENTER. THE OUTFLOW IS CONFINED TO THE WEST AND
SOUTHWEST SINCE THE CYCLONE IS STILL EMBEDDED WITHIN EASTERLY
SHEAR. THE SHEAR IS FORECAST TO DECREASE AND MOST OF THE INTENSITY
GUIDANCE GRADUALLY STRENGTHENS DEAN. IN FACT…DYNAMICAL GUIDANCE
SUGGESTS THAT DEAN COULD BE NEAR THE LESSER ANTILLES AS A HURRICANE
WITH 100 TO 110 KNOTS IN FIVE DAYS.
DEAN APPEARS TO BE MOVING WESTWARD OR 265 DEGREES AT 20 KNOTS AROUND
THE PERIPHERY OF A STRONG SUBTROPICAL RIDGE WHICH IS EXPANDING
WESTWARD. IN THE SHORT TERM…2 TO 3 DAYS…DEAN SHOULD CONTINUE TO
MOVE ON A GENERAL WESTWARD TRACK WITH A GRADUAL DECREASE IN FORWARD
SPEED. THEREAFTER…THE FORECAST BECOMES HIGHLY UNCERTAIN SINCE
SOME RELIABLE MODELS MAINTAIN A STRONG RIDGE TO THE NORTH AND KEEP
THE CYCLONE MOVING WESTWARD ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN AND OTHERS SHOW A
WEAKER RIDGE RESULTING IN A GRADUAL TURN TO THE WEST-NORTHWEST. THE
OFFICIAL FORECAST FOLLOWS THE CONSENSUS AND IS A LITTLE BIT TO THE
SOUTH OF THE PREVIOUS ONE…DUE TO THE REPOSITIONING OF THE
CENTER…AND NOT BECAUSE WE HAVE CHANGED THE FORECAST REASONING.
FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS
INITIAL 14/1500Z 11.7N 39.4W 35 KT
12HR VT 15/0000Z 11.8N 42.0W 40 KT
24HR VT 15/1200Z 11.8N 45.6W 45 KT
36HR VT 16/0000Z 11.8N 48.5W 50 KT
48HR VT 16/1200Z 12.0N 51.5W 60 KT
72HR VT 17/1200Z 13.5N 56.5W 70 KT
96HR VT 18/1200Z 15.5N 61.0W 80 KT
120HR VT 19/1200Z 17.5N 65.0W 95 KT
$$
FORECASTER AVILA
Is there some mischief afoot?
Recent Comments- A Suggestion…(repeated from “Barbados Tender Process Corrupt)
BFP- It made a world of difference when you extended the list to show the last 15 posts, but with all these one-line rubbish posts coming in thick and fact, the thoughtful stuff disappears before one can catch them.
How about listing under Recent Comments only those posts which having something to contribute to the subject, omitting the little pleasantries like “lol” and “I fully agree with X” etc. This would serve the purpose of the Recent Posts column far better. Do other folks agree?
P.S. I realise this means having a scrutineer make a decision, rather than being automatic, which means more work for you hardworking guys. But perhaps you could give it a try to see if is workable?
I think a new thread on the Caribbean Rose as featured in our friend Marginal’s blog would create an interesting discussion.
Encompassing LIAT, CSME, one jurisdiction, drugs, immigration, duties, the whole enterprise encapsulates where we are as a nation and how we will respond to practicalities of what our leaders are agreeing to on our behalf.
Hi to all of you great Bloggers in Barbados!
I live far away from you but I am intensely interested in the environment as I know a lot of you are – although protecting the environment does not seem to be something that your Government is at all concerned about. On a wildlife thread here in Canada I saw this information posted. Is it true? Is there nothing that can be done by Barbadians to stop this or does anyone care?
Annual Slaughter of Migrating Waders on Barbados
A small minority of Barbadians are responsible for shooting up to 45,000
migrating waders (shorebirds) every year between August and November in
Barbados, West Indies. These birds breed in North America, sometimes as far
North as the Arctic, and then migrate South to spend the winter in Latin
America. En route they fly over Barbados.
The slaughter on Barbados is highly organized and takes place in a number of
shallow, man-made lakes, which are made attractive to exhausted migrating
waders. The lakes have up to 4 acres of open water with specially built mud
banks within range of the shooting hut. Caged birds (maimed from last
years’ shoot) are placed close to the mud banks and the hunters use whistles
to imitate the bird calls, which are supplemented by amplified recording
calls to attract entire flocks. Decoys are also used.
At this time of year large flocks of exhausted birds fly in after a storm.
They are met by a barrage of fire from semi-automatic weapons. The shooters
often wait for the birds to settle before firing and it is a matter of pride
not to let one single bird escape. The lakes (known locally as “shooting
swamps”) are often manned all day during the shooting season, seven days a
week and it has actually become a “contest” amongst the four known swamps to
see who gets the most birds. The social and racial status of the shooters
are mostly white and well-to-do in a nation where 90% of the people have
African roots.
This practice has been going on for generations but has become more refined
in the last fifty years, with the introduction of sophisticated weaponry.
Such shooting does not take place on the other Caribbean Islands, nor
further north. The birds being shot are fully protected all the year round
in both Canada and America, and have been for about a century now. Barbados
has never signed the Migratory Bird Treaty Act but they did sign the CITES
Act back in 1992.
They include species such as the Lesser Yellowlegs and Pectoral Sandpiper,
but of particular concern is the American Golden Plover, whose population is
declining rapidly. All species are shot regardless and there is even an
instance of the Eskimo Curlew being shot in 1963, now thought to be extinct.
A Barbadian named Maurice Hutt produced a paper in 1991 on “swamp shooting”
and it makes for horrific reading. Mr. Hutt’s efforts to prevent swamp
shooting were suppressed by the powerful shooting lobby in Barbados and it
continues unabated today. In fact recent estimates indicate that the
position may have worsened and that up to 45,000 birds may be killed each
year. It would seem that the only way to have this annual slaughter stopped
would be if pressure from the American & Canadian governments and other
outside authorities were to be exerted on the Barbados government.
Thank you for reading this.
PS I am not concerned about being anonymous…this was just the place I could contact as there did not seem to be anything on your environment thread!
What would Barbados lose if shooting Birds for sport was banned ?
These senseless orgasnised slaughter of migratory birds should be banned by the Barbados Government.
We would lose NOTHING, Hants. But you know what? Bird shooting at swamps will be as difficult to stop as the Strathclyde/Belleville/Yacht Club barriers were to break down. It will take a Government with guts to ban it, and we know that that isn’t going to happen any time soon – just like the dog fighting that is SUPPOSED to be illegal, but continues unabated because we all know that policemen and Big Ups are involved in it. It is a disgrace that those birds, tired on the wing from such long journeys, looking for a haven to rest have to suffer such an ending. Thank you, Jean Wyenberg for exposing it. I hope WWF and other organisations and world pressure can eventually put a stop to this wanton destruction of peeps and waders and other birds.
ANCHORED IN SINGPORE HISTORY
Ship repair in Singapore dates back to when the first dry dock was built in 1859. Due to active government encouragement and technology transfers in the late sixties, business became more international, and by the mid-seventies, Singapore was firmly established as a major international ship repair centre, particularly for larger vessels. It has maintained its leading position since then.
Singapore ship repairing has gained international recognition for its specialised re-construction jobs, which range from conversion to jumboisation. The extensive capabilities in ship repairing means a multitude of repair, reconstruction and conversion jobs can be carried out with high quality and timely delivery. The versatility of local shipyards is reflected in the wide range of ship conversions undertaken. Ship repair is carried out in shipyards and at the anchorage. To meet the needs of shipowners using the port, voyage repair are readily available on call. Projects include the conversion of car carriers to livestock carriers and tankers to FPSOs, just to name a few. POSITIONING THE KEEL BLOCKS
The advent of steamships provided the catalyst for Singapore’s early entry into shiprepair. Unlike sailing ships which could be beached and hauled over for scouring or urgent repairs, the early steamers with their paddle boxes and paddlewheel shafts could not be treated in such as undignified manner.
Almost 30 years after the first steamships, the SS Vander Capellan, sailed into the New Harbour, Captain William Cloughton put the finishing touch to Singapore’s first graving dock. Suitably named Dock No 1, it gave Singapore a headstart in shiprepair. There were then no comparable facilities between India and China. Singapore went on to widen her lead in 1913 by launching the King’s Dock, the largest east of Suez.
After the heady days however, investment slowed. Except for the HM Naval Dockyard in Sembawang, no major investment was made. Soon, Singapore slipped behind. Major shipowners would dock their ships in Hong Kong or India, but rarely in Singapore. However, with independence, the marine industry regained its former vigour. Through government sponsorship and private entrepreneurship, both local and foreign, it soon achieved world-class status in shiprepair, rig and ship construction.
Try as it may, Singapore would not have achieved so much in so short a time without the strong foundation so painstakingly laid in the first 138 years.
The Pioneers
The first known proposal for a repair dock was submitted by Dr William Montgomerie. In 1834, the resident surgeon suggested damming the Selat Sengkit, the straits between Pulau Blakang Mati and Pulau Brani, to form a wet dock. Though officially sanctioned, the idea was abandoned after it dawned on Dr Montgomerie that the task was lofty and not particularly lucrative.
More proposals followed, but it was only in 1854 before the first concrete attempt was made. Captain Cloughton recognised a drydock was needed while going back and forth between India and China. He came ashore, and against the advice of local residents began working on low-lying, marshy ground at Pantai Chermin. This pioneering attempt failed. For years after, it was referred to endearingly as Cloughton’s mud-hole.
Undaunted, the strong-willed captain made a fresh excavation further east, and here a 122-metre dock was completed in 1859. With constant maintenance and upgrading, Dock No 1 remains in service today. Patent Slip and Dock was formed on Dec 24, 1861 to assume control.
But before Patent Slip could get off the ground, two competitors appeared. Displeased, Captain Cloughton protested in a letter to the Singapore Free Press that there was insufficient work to fill one dock, much less three. In its first years, the Patent Slip repaired on average 30 ships a year, of which six were bought to keep the dock employed. The information failed to impress potential rivals. Encouraged by news that the Suez Canal was taking shape, the promoters of the Tanjong Pagar Dock Company (TPDC) registered the company on Sep 29, 1864.
In 1868, the Victoria Dock was launched to the sounds of trumpet and competition. Patent Slip slashed it prices forcing TPDC to do likewise, and the Victoria Dock performed much as Captain Cloughton had predicted. In such lean times it was TPDC’s wharf which kept it going. The wharf also gave TPDC the upper hand, and enabled it to force Patent Slip to the negotiating table. In 1870, the arch-rivals forged a pact to standardise charges. The informal arrangement was replaced by a joint purse accord in June 1881. Both companies received a fixed percentage on profits generated from shiprepairs, with differences settled by arbitration.
The opening of the Suez, which coincided with Singapore’s 50th anniversary, helped enhance relationships. It lifted shipping and trade, and with it the profitability of Singapore yards. But the Suez failed to benefit the Bon Accord Dock built on Pulau Brani in August 1866. It was leased to TPDC and Patent Slip which operated it for 10 years. Eventually, it was bought out by TPDC, which had no bigger plans than to de-commission the shipyard. TPDC steadily swallowed up almost all its rivals. At the close of the 19th century, the entire life of the port and the prosperity of Singapore, came to depend on the management of a single company.
I have been following with interest comments made in the press about the effects of squatters on the radar readout in Adams airspace. It is worrying that high ranking officials within the Department of Civil Aviation could so mislead our prime minister. Also of concern is the fact that matters of grave importance have not been given equal attention by these department heads. Some two Saturdays ago controllers at Adams were hit with random power outages where on at least 3 occasions on the same day, there was total radar and communication outages, I cannot overstate how potentially dangerous this situation was and is as the potential for it to occur at anytime remains. What is worrying is there is supposed to be back-ups to guard against this. These back-ups failed. Approaching two weeks later the controllers are still working with minimum telecommunication facilities, and they continue to be concerned about the inadequacy of the frequencies available for communication with aircraft. They have brought this and other matters to management’s attention countless times over the last few years. Every attempt to have this and other matters such as critical staffing levels,
inadequate lighting, inadequate maintenance and such address have met with failure. More so when these matters are put out in the public
domain they are downplayed by our managers and the stories which should be of critical concern to all
are given less than adequate attention by the media. It is feared that in this instance like so many on this little rock some great disaster will have to occur before those in a position to do something actually act.
At the root of the problem lies one of the most substandard management teams within government. They have failed at almost
every level to efficiently oversee the department. Air traffic continues to function in Barbados because of a dedicated, overworked
and short staffed team of controllers who do the best they can with with what little they have. Case in point within the last 2 years the government of Barbados was called upon to replace their training simulator so much needed training could occur. This endeavour cost the government millions.
This system was bought and is now sitting at the Barbados School of Air Traffic Control in a state of dis-repair due to inadequate maintenance.
Yet another waste of government funds.
Controller friend
”What would Barbados lose if shooting Birds for sport was banned ?”
Good ole boys drinking whiskey and rye….
Y’all have a good time now, y’hear?
Anyone seen ma shotgun an’ pikcup?
FlyBoy..
What you say is deeply disturbing for a country that largely depends on tourism and that has recenly spent $155 million upgrading its airport.
Have your concerns been articulated to the Minister of Tourism and International Transport?
Is he fully aware of the situation?
The 140 per cent increased departure tax and change in collection criteria regarding travellers age and intransit passengers now mean that GAIA Inc., are collecting an estimated $90 million a year alone from this tax according to the Minister’s arrival figures.
In your opinion what financial sum would it take to permanently solve all the air traffic problems you have?
After such a recent renovation and ‘upgrade’ of the GAIA, it is a travesty that not only are the structural additions deficient but as per above, that critical operational areas are deficient.
Per the Minister himself the departure area already needs additional expansion and in another area the roof is leaking.
To learn now that the air-traffic control needs investment in equipment and training equipment as well as planning for adequate maintenance, proves beyond doubt the haphazard way in which this ‘expansion’ was conducted.
It points to lack of adequate assessment of structural and operational needs, even those basic needs for an airport as air-traffic operations.
It points to not only to lack of forethought and lack of critical implementational planning, but to poor management all around, for which the Government has to take the blame.
Again, another major project messed up. BUT, we will hear that it will be dealt with, we will hear no acknowledgement of errors made, we will hear that such a ‘major’ airport, for example when a new Airbus or some such comes in is ‘our finest hour’.
No accountability reigns.
Based on the post by FLYBOY it seems to me that the clown that we have a minister in his wisdom (now that is a hard call) committed over $ 155 million to rebuild an airport and it now is less
praticial and working than the old one but we can get used to these events because idiots are the ones making the decisions but more over they spend millions to the airport but neglect the heart of the airport the air traffic control division, it has been years these controllers have been complaining about lack of quality equpiment to assist them in doing their jobs, and it has come to light once again in the post below.
Why is it they are being neglected and putting our safety and the safety of our vistors at risk?
Could it be because they are the majority of DLP supporters in that office if it is this is a dangerous and sad situation.
Some things are so simple.
Airport priority 1: Provide a safe Runway for planes to land on.
Priority 2: Provide Air Traffic controllers with proper working equipment(with back up systems) to help planes land safely.
The Airport does have very nice (First World)Buses to drive from Plane to entrance.
Flyboy- I am a layperson not technically literate, but what you say about power outages at GAIA for the traffic controllers is downright scary.
I thought those squatter houses they want to tear down was the cause for concern on planes landing. It did not make sense to me because houses are often in the flight path of a runway,
Do the radio waves reflect off the galvanise roofs or something to make it dangerous for pilots to land? Or are their CB radios on too loud?
You don’t mention those squatter houses as being part of the problem. Are they being used by the politicians as a diversion in case there is a crisis?
Also, did you notice how CTP Cummins said on TV how “the minister responsible” did this, and the “minister responsible” decided that. We all know that “the minister responsible” is the Minister of Planning and Development, a.k.a. Owen Seymour Arthur, our Prime Minister.
Is the Chief Town Planner scared or shy of calling his name? Or just trying to be diplomatic with his circumspection?
To all the first responders,
I have just witnessed the worst example of rescue I have ever experienced in my life. I am a retired professional firefighter and I can not express how deeply I am disappointed with the Barabdos Fire Fighters response to the recent tragedy at Briton’s Hill. When you take on a job that requires you to place your life and limb at risk that is what you do. I went to work every day knowing that I may have to give up my life so someone else could live, this department has shown that they are not willing to get their hands dirty no matter how many lives are at stake. The time delay while they waited for some “Dogs” to arrive may have been the very time those victims needed to be rescued. Did one member of the Barbados group of hero’s attempt to go into the hole? Did one member say “your life is worth more than mine” so I will risk all to save you my brother. It does not appear so to me, I can only hope that I am wrong and if so will offer my deepest apology. If I am right then this department needs to be retrained to the level where a call for help doesn’t result in a bunch of guys on a red truck becoming another group of spectators.
If this is your response to a relatively minor disaster what can we expect when we have a major situation. A hurricane like Ivan striking this island would leave everyone of us totally on our own as the emergency services here have now demonstrated their complete lack of willingness and or ability to handle even the most basic of response demands. I spent my working career in sacrifice to my fellow man without question as to colour or creed, all I see in Barbados from the emergency response units is a dedication to pay check and a secure job. If you are not willing to risk your life to save mine you are in the wrong line of work and I will not stand beside you in uniform with any pride, shame on you to even count yourselves among the men I call brothers, the men who have suffered and died so others would live. You need to ask yourselves are you firefighters in name only or are you members of the bravest group of men and women to ever don a uniform and report for work.
The motto of my department was “fight fires and save lives” and I have sadly seen demonstrated that the motto here from all first responders is “stand around and do nothing”. Did no one at the scene calculate the collapse zone and establish the risk factor for attempting a rescue operation. I was not at the scene and don’t want to second guess the officers who were in control but after so many hours surely someone had to be able to make a command decision. I sincerely hope that I or one of my loved ones does not have to rely on the “first responders” of this nation because they have again demonstrated to me their complete lack of professionalism and dedication to the people they purport to serve. I write this in the sincere hope that the members of the Barbados Fire Brigade and all other first responders are deeply insulted and wish to bring themselves to a level where their brothers around the world would willingly stand beside them in the knowledge that they are truly among the bravest to serve their fellow man.
Bombaros
RCVFARS
Letters to the Editor in today’s Nation News donate 1/2 page to Clyde Mascoll, plus 1/4 to another writer who claims that the reports in Freepress and other blogs of a DLP candidate’s vicimisation are FALSE.
Will the Nation donate 3/4 of its letters to the editor page to rebutt and present the DLP case?
Uncover the corruption in Government!
Nation News prints partisan political publications without responsibility for balance to Bajans!
Free the press!!!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070829.wwarmuseum29/BNStory/Entertainment/home
BFP deleted this comment for blatant racism.
Banned.
Hi Guys and Gals,
Don’t know if it is possible to be done or in your control.. But, today I was on the road all day and was following the posts via Blackberry, and honestly my thumb is sore from scrolling up thru all the posts to get back to the top of page to hit HOME so I could look at other posts. Is it possible to get a home button at the bottom of each page? It would make life so much easier for those better subscribed posts. Just a thought
Thanks
CONDOMS ARE NOT IN BARBADOS ONLY IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
BFP GET WITH IT
Thousands of condoms distributed free in the District of Columbia as part of an HIV-AIDS program are being returned to the district’s health department following complaints that the packaging was easily damaged, rendering the condoms ineffective
WASHINGTON – D.C.’s free condoms are proving to be unpopular — not because people don’t want them but because people are questioning their packaging.
More than 100,000 of them have been returned. People are complaining the paper packaging tears easily and could make the condoms ineffective. Condoms sold in stores are packaged in foil.
http://media.bonnint.net/wtop/9/903/90308.jpg
There also are complaints that packaging looks suspicious and that the expiration dates on the Chinese-made condoms are illegible. They come in a yellow and purple wrapper. From the start, the wrappers raised eyebrows with the slogan “Coming Together in D.C. to Stop HIV.”
*******************************
BFP Comments
Hi Going for David
Sure, we read the article too. We put it up because …
1/ It is topical with all the product recalls from our new Chinese friends.
2/ It is a tad humourous in a dark sort of way.
3/ We wondered if any of the condoms sold in Barbados are imported from China. Given the high standards of quality control that China seems to have, we thought that someone might want to address the quality issue if any of our condoms are manufactured in China.
Yes we are aware that the story only mentions Washington, but that is not as you claim some sort of proof that no Chinese condoms have been imported to Barbados.
“More than 100,000 of them have been returned. People are complaining the paper packaging tears easily and could make the condoms ineffective.”
Are the condoms being returned in a used or an unused condition? Is it only the packaging and not the condom that tears easily? What is the measure of ineffectiveness?
And the Barbados Underground publisher is:-
Deeply disturbed by overwhelming glowing references to Sir Adrian Loveridge in the ostensible “Barbados Underground” and tired of seeing his name everywhere every day about anything I wrote this comment to today’s lead article in BU:-
iMonz // Sep 8th 2007 at 7:19 am
Adrian Loveridge would write a letter to everyone and his brother protesting the long-term negative effect on tourism if a sanitation truck ran over a baby monkey on Farley Hill. And didn’t clean up. We hear you Adrian Loveridge! Much too often. Oh how we hear you!
Which BU chose not to publish.
So I sent this:-
iMonz // Sep 8th 2007 at 8:23 am
Afraid you’re about to fail the “Underground Press” test. Specifically, you’re in danger of having as much credibility as Sir Adrian Loveridge himself if you fail to print this comment I sent earlier:
“Adrian Loveridge would write a letter to everyone and his brother protesting the long-term negative effect on tourism if a sanitation truck ran over a baby monkey on Farley Hill. And didn’t clean up. We hear you Adrian Loveridge! Much too often. Oh how we hear you!”
Could it be that Sir Adrian edits BU himself? Your readers want to know.
Which of course they haven’t published either. Co-incidence?
****************************
BFP Comments
Hello iMonz
I see on BU that they did publish your comment. You are obviously not familiar with how comment moderation works and we invite you to read “What is comment moderation?” at the top of our blog.
hi people,
today is the first time i have read the notes here.
just a brief note…prices are about 15-20% lower than sir allans centre at many places… was he decorated/congratulated for his excellence in raiding the pocketbooks of bajans? has he given back his portion of dividends from bs&t as part of his “barbadian honor”? will his benefactor also be honored? will adrian loveridge be honored for speaking out? do tony hoyos and colin brewer have to give back anything because they oppose sir allan?
to me whether you are b or d or whatever, your country must come first. as a canuck, i know that pierre always did for me…
Take note. The Fair Trading Commission has announced a public review of the Price Cap mechanism to run from September 19th to October 19th.
Essentially it wants to know whether people believe the Price Cap has achieved its goals, whether the principles, rules etc should be modified and whether an alternative should be considered.
I did a research paper with UWI economist Winston Moore because it is a complex issue for some people. One of our major stumbling blocks was a lack of information from the company which would show what revenues were made from regulated as against non-regulated services.
Remember that the Price Cap relates to regulated services with residential telephone rates of particular interest to low income consumers.
We made the observation in the paper which was sent to the FTC for comment.
Well, nothing has changed. Barbadians are now being asked to give informed opinions based on substance when Cable & Wireless’ earnings on regulated services remains a secret. You see the company has in the past claimed that some of its key information is confidential and in keeping with the confidentiality rules of the Telecoms legislation. The FTC obviously needs the fortitude to offend C&W’s friends in high circles and demand and have published such information. In fairness to the FTC this has not been tested but I have a strong suspicion that when I write and seek this information the response will be what I have outlined above.
Bottom line : citizens are being asked to comment on a very critical matter which hits them in their pockets without the information to make their cases based on substance.
The key issue that remains to be answered is whether the Price Cap has simply been a mechanism to boost C&W’s rosy profits at the expense of the consumer who now cannot argue a case before a panel of commissioners
I and several of my colleagues had successfully argued that C&W should not have been awarded a penny in the 2003 rate hearing. Don’t get me wrong, the Price Cap can be a progressive move.
But the fact is that competition in fixed telephone service and the long distance business associated with fixed line has not materialised and C&W is entrenched in the high speed data (ADSL) business.
So as consumers we need to put our heads together, speak out or sit idly by as we get shafted. The rich discussion on VOIP concerns on this forum reflected concerns ordinary Bajans raised during at a local rum shop tonight about the high prices of milk products and anticipation that more are on their way.
Let’s do something more than online chatting to ensure that those anticipated price increases do not include future higher resedential telephone charges to fatten an already fat monopoly.
Has anyone noticed the intense national debate on the precise length of Garrison Secondary school girls uniforms? Not that deportment isn’t parmount in the proper rearing of our young women but the priority assigned to it is deafening. I’m convinced hightened focus on the subject is an extremely good use of time and should go a long ways in ech individual’s upbringing……do you think that extra bit of deportment will help stop them having sex on the PSVs?….or magically assist them with the Queen’s English?…..or perhaps get them to school on time instead of wandering Swan Street? I think NOT.
Perhaps we should focus a bit more on things that really matter…just a thought.
See how many plastic bottles we use.
http://www.chrisjordan.com/current_set2.php?id=7
barbadosfreepress@yahoo.com
Subject: Brittons Hill Tragedy
Message: Not one cent collected in the Media Relief Fund has been
given to the surviving family of those who died. Over one
month later and no one, not the owner of the apartment or any
one acting on his behalf has spoken to anybody in the
Codrington Family even if was to simply return the deposit
and months rent on the $1500.00 a month apartment at
Arch Cot Terrace. Not one cent from the peace march and
fashion show has been donated to the Codringtons, in fact the
church New Covenent Ministries that opened the BNB account
to receive money is in no way connected to anybody involved
in the tragedy. Not even the insurance companies has said
a peep as they deem it an act of God. People meet the
Codringtons and say I gave money for you at the telethon.
They have not received a penny. Not one document has been
drawn up regarding the trust fund for the children. No the
Codringtons are not greedy, nor needy, but somebody has to let
people know that contrary to popular belief your money is not
going where you intended. on the peoples business the gov.
promised to match at least a couple hundred thousand to the
telethon, so said Trevor Prescod, has not been done. They
bodly proclaimed they paid for a funeral, it was two oil
companys that put up the money. Dont be distracted by the
family feud, it is in the interest of the youngest Codrington
child and even then, there is no contest. They finally released
the bodies to Lyndhurst on Thursday Sept 27th, look out for the
burial next week. it was a pokitical show and spectical
at the thanksgiving service, but no more. Keep your money,
the Codringtons are not getting it anyway, everybody is holding
back something to do this and to do that. Give back
the five lives lost, then we can talk. The only two groups
that have delivered on any promise to the Codringtons is
the Broadstreet taxi association and Chefette Restaurants.
The telethon was not only for the Codringtons. However, the concern should also be for those persons who pledged and did not deliver. Over $500,000 dollars were pledge and LESS THAN HALF was received.
On another note, remember about 5 years ago there was a concert in Independence Square raising money for the homeless and to upgrade the homeless shelter on Hindsbury Road. What ever became of the $200,000+ that was raised?
Where is the proof, Thompson?
For some time now, we have been bombarded with telephone calls and emails from members of the public who simply wanted to convey the news that the Barbados Free Press (BFP), and its sister blog, the Barbados Underground, are political concoctions of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), designed to tarnish the reputation of Government.
We were told that the specific plan was to lead a campaign of corruption against the Government. We are cognizant of the constant rolling of the rumour mill in politics. Hence our hesitation to investigate the veracity of the information received via the calls. But with every passing day callers became more and more vociferous in their charge, and the information became more specific. To satisfy ourselves that the callers were not just pulling a prank on us, we asked them for names of persons who are possibly involved, and the names that
were divulged were most disappointing, though not surprising.
The scheme of posting negative economic and political comments about Barbados on the World Wide Web can certainly not be considered a
patriotic thing to do.
To be on the web every day telling the world that your country is corrupt, even when the absolute opposite is believed to be true by those international agencies who rate us, is not an act which Barbadians have come to expect from the party that the Right Excellent Errol Barrow built. Barrow spent his political life convincing the world that Barbados was a model to be emulated. Whatever our shortcomings, Barrow felt that he had it within his intellectual capacity to deal with them. He did not feel that he needed outside intervention.
Barbadians cannot begin to imagine the recklessness hidden within such a scheme and the danger that awaits the many workers and their families who now depend on the viability of the tourism and financial sectors for their daily livelihood. Further, only the experience of the early 1990s can help us to realise what such nasty political schemes can have on our social and economic lives.
In this front page article, David Thompson insinuates that there is something corrupt between Government and Hardwood Housing Factory Inc., a company contracted to build low-income homes for Barbadians. [This is] without first providing any facts to support his wild assumption or offering a shred of evidence to justify his request that a forensic investigator of the standing of Bob Lindguist
be brought in to investigate his – and only his – illusive hair-brained idea.
Once again the “believability factor” of Thompson is on the line. Does he have the information on the “sweetheart handouts” and “kickbacks” on the hardwood housing project in his possession as he said? Answers next week!
Is there any truth that Owen and Mr Mark Cummings have fallen out on a major issue and he has been asked to resign from the post of chief Town Planner??
Should this be the case it reflects sadly on the role of the PM in the day to day affairs of the various ministries, it has been said many times before on this site that owen has been deeply involved in the act of overruling the CTP and permitting condos and big houses to be built.
Idiot Fred
Why would he be an idiot? because he or she ask a simple question that may once again be another nail in your coffin ?
Yes they are right when they mention how involved Owing is in granting building permits.
This is one set of bastards with major corruption heir main focus.
Admit it that the BLP has failed the people of Barbados for their own personal gains and profit and their own glory.
I think I read somewhere, maybe in The Nation newspaper, that one of the persons vying for the Top position at CBC is a “former BBC broadcaster”. I hope it is not who I think it is, not that she is incapable of the job, but rather that she is NOT a “former BBC broadcaster” and enquiries to the BBC can confirm this. She worked at CBC, but not as a broadcaster and The Nation is perpetuating this myth when they write, under her name, that she is a “former BBC broadcaster”. CBC should be made aware of this falsehood.
Sorry, that should have read: “She worked at BBC” (not CBC).
White Australia playing for Jamaica
Brendan Nash, the Queensland batsman, will leave Australia to restart his career in the Caribbean. Nash, whose father Paul was an Olympic swimmer for Jamaica, has made the decision to try and win a West Indies spot after missing out on a Bulls deal for 2007-08.
Nash, 29, said he still felt he was good enough to play at first-class level or even higher. “I was obviously very disappointed to miss out on a contract, but I pretty much got told it would be hard for me to work my way back in again and I felt I still have something to offer,” he said. “I was over in the Caribbean for the World Cup and although I didn’t talk to anyone on the West Indies board or anything, I did speak to Jeff Dujon and Courtney Walsh and they felt I could make an improvement to West Indies cricket.”
He will join the Kingston club initially, and hopes to make a return to first-class cricket with Jamaica in the Carib Series. While nothing has been guaranteed, Nash was confident he would have a chance of breaking into the international game through his father’s country.
“I’ve spoken to a lot of senior players in Queensland and most of them felt like they didn’t hit their peak until they were 29 or 30,” he said. “I’ll give myself plenty of backing to make a go of it and weigh it up a bit further down the track, it’s all been a bit sudden.” Nash, who played only three games with the Bulls last summer, will depart for his Caribbean adventure in September./Users/andreww/Desktop/302406.jpg
Please somebody tell me I an new in your land. Why is it that public servants part time or otherwise are in the position that they are having to wait three months before recieving their honest earned, well deserved wages.
Preferred Prime Miniester is Arthur 52% to 26% Thompson
“Arthur job approval rating is now 50 per cent, while Thompson’s is 38 per cent”
“PM Arthur continues to dominate”
The Prime Ministerial preference of a respondent is usually a good indicator of voting intention; hence this was also included and compared to previous CADRES polls.
The related chart demonstrates that PM Arthur continues to dominate this aspect of the polls, with 52 per cent of persons preferring to be led by him, which is no different to the February situation, while Mr Thompson continues to run second to him with the support of 29 per cent of Barbadians.
The comparative analysis demonstrates that both of these changes are marginal, suggesting that neither leader is now more or less popular than they were in February.
The objective ranking of leaders and is useful in assessing leaders individually. These scores relate to an average score on a range from “1” to “10” and as such movement can be interpreted more simply, since the margin of error stipulation is less relevant in this instance.
In this regard both leaders have grown to some extent. Arthur has grown by 0.1 while Thompson has grown by 0.2.
This type of analysis which individually rates leaders has become more popular since the competitive assessment can often be misleading, hence on this occasion CADRES employed yet another individual measure, which is popular with pollsters internationally.
The approval rating as it is popularly known asks respondents “if they approve of the job being done by the PM and Leader of the Opposition”. Fifty per cent of respondents approved of the job being done by Arthur suggesting his job approval rating is now 50 per cent, while Thompson’s is 38 per cent.
Further refines leadership data by reference to the “Uncertain Voters” alone in October which are compared to the “Uncertain Voters” in February and while some marginal changes are evident, it remains the case that these potential voters continue to be more impressed by PM Arthur than Thompson by a considerable margin.
/Desktop/pp.jpg
After twenty years of letters, the newspapers in Barbados will no longer print mine.
Do we still live in a free society ?
Maybe Mr Beadon you should have it printed on this site as the readership on the BU and BFP far exceeds that of the Advocate or the nation combined.
Why would they refuse to print your letter what was the subject matter of the letter?
Dear ‘ Wishing in vain ‘
My letters to newspapers, have always been very diverse, science, religions, nature, destruction of the environenment, good books, land usage, et al. I try to stay as far away as possible from politics, but am worried that any political party stays in too long.
Trinidad, where I grew up, is a prime example of long term one- party – damage.
Sincerely,. CLB.
I shall do my very best, not to abuse the freedom Barbados Free Press has given me. May it long live, freely, and, Hi to everbody who writes in. Now why did I stay away so long, missing all the real stuff, and writers like myself, who die, lest we have voice ?
Just one point, from an old man.
One should not fear using his or her own name, in if they have conviction about what they write. writing,… is after all, a near spiritual imperative.
Nos veremos, pues . ( We’ll see eachother, then ) .
Isn’t anyone going to explain why – for almost a month now – C & W are cashing champagne fees for mauby Broadband speeds? They promise 1,500 Kbps. And deliver, if we’re lucky, 300 Kbps.
Colin L Beadon we fear using our real names because many of us have jobs, families to feed and mortgages to pay. We are afraid of victimization which is very real in Barbados.
If you had been following this blog a very short time ago you would have seen threats against a blogger’s life and the most foul and wicked remarks being posted right here.
BFP removes the hate comments and the ones where it is obvious that someone is using another bloggers name for evil reasons.
Some of us do not want what happened to Mrs. Juman to happen to us and our families if we can help it. To get a better understanding you could read the article.
The victimization tactics range from phone calls at 2.00 am, audits by Inland Revenue, NIS and VAT offices, intimidation, threats and the like. It is very difficult to do anything in Barbados if you have offended the powers that be.
Bush Tea:
I am begging you to post on this blog your last one over on BU. As usual, it is top class!
I hear the Barbados Cancer Society breast screening clinic is inundated at the moment, always busy after breast cancer awareness week, but the machine at the hospital has broken so they’re sending everyone to the Cancer Society for mammograms? can anyone confirm this and how long the hospital machine has been down?
The comment I just made here appears to have been snatched?
OK no problem its there now, sorry!
Imonz…..C& W are frauds !
Bees Bajans’
best bet
The most recent poll by Cadres for the Nation Newspaper continues to affirm the indisputable
fact that the people of Barbados hold true
to their belief that the Owen Arthur-led administration continues to be the best team for the times
in Barbados.
The Dems, on the other hand, remain disorganised, dysfunctional and deflated. They still have not
proven to the people of Barbados that they are
a viable alternative.
They continue to be ill-prepared, ill-equipped
and all of their policies ill-conceived. From all of these polls in the current series one message comes through loud and clear and is reflected in the responses
of the people participating in all of these polls.
THE DEMS ARE
NOT FIT TO GOVERN
This is borne out with 44 % of people having this view that they are not ready and only 25% to the contrary in support of the Dems’ ability to govern.
Thompson continues to run a distant second
in the preferred leader category and their
combined leadership is less than a third
of that of the Barbados Labour Party.
With both Mia Mottley and Clyde Mascoll adding
to the preferred leader graph in favour of the Barbados Labour Party, showing the depth of high quality candidates in the BLP in contrast to the other side with only one candidate scoring above 1 % in the preferred leader category.
People in Barbados have made up their minds about Thompson and although he has been in politics
for over 20 years the majority of people do not see him as Prime Ministerial material.
He proved his poor leadership qualities when he led them to their worst and crushing defeat in 1999.
The writing is on the wall that he will lead them into another crushing defeat. He is no match for the style, audacity, cunning and tenacity of Owen Arthur and the BLP.
Fig 1 Preferred Leader
Further, when the Dems are not arguing over who should be leader now there is also a three-way fight over who should be deputy leader.
The DLP or its leader has not convinced the electorate that they can chart a true and steady
course for Barbados in the same professional and diligent manner that the BLP has been able
to achieve often in hard and extremely difficult times for the last 13 years.
The Barbados Labour Party retains and enjoys
a strong, deep and resilient connection with the electorate and is in tune with their dreams, desires
and aspirations.
Although there has been a 5% reduction of party support for the BLP and bearing in mind that this
is just outside the 5% margin of error it is also interesting to note that the DLP has not benefited
from this and these people have moved into the don’t know/won’t say category.
Thus, this could be categorised as an increasingly cautious electorate rather than a swing away from
the BLP.
It is part of human nature that after a long period
to have an increasing desire for change, but this change may be achieved by changing the way Government does business or changes in the policies and programmes Government is pursuing.
This would be a passive change as it is clear
that the people are uncomfortable with the DLP
and are not prepared to enhance their support.
Another interesting and statistically significant fact that is borne out in this poll is that 7% more of those
polled believe the BLP deserves another term
in contrast to the appalling 25% who feel that the DLP may be ready to govern.
The more time I spend researching the Price Cap the more convinced I am that Barbadian residential telephone users are being taken advantage off. While there has been some prices reduction in other areas the 21 per cent increase allowed to Cable & Wireless over the three years of the Price Cap is unjustified. Readers of Barbados Free Press interested in understanding the issue better may visit my blog at : http://www.hallamhope.com. Click on the Hope Agenda and type in Price Cap in the search area for a listing of all the articles on this subject. And keep an eye out for next Monday’s Business Authority and have a read of my article. It might seem a complicated and not too interesting topic for some but the more we try and understand this issue the more we will realise just how important it is to our fellow citizens.
In reply to the letter from Anonymous 19th Oct to my self, I can well understand not wanting to place ones true name to letter, up to a point.
But Nelson Mandela never thought like that, and niether did the recent Nobel prize winner, Shirin Abadi. They both faced extreme danger, and jail, in their own countries, just like the Burmese politician whose name I can’t spell,….. because they believed in what they were doing.
How can anything on such a scale be accomplished if we reamain faceless and unknown ? Who is going to bet on an unknown, or take that person seriously ?
So in the end, it would seem to me, that unless you are prepared to stand up fully, for what you write, …….. Probably I don’t neet to terminate that sentence.
Colin L Beadon.
Hallam
How do you feel about the charge to customers for tecnicians who have to enter your home?
As well as the fact that after paying Bartel for years for some cheap phones suddenly we are left with old equipment that the Company wants to have nothing to do with.
It is time our attention was on the coming world energy crunch. Politics won’t really matter very much when it hits, niether will four lane highways or flyovers. The price of shipping in food will reach an alarming proportion, and then we will start wondering why so much of our highly valuable and deep-soiled agricultural land, has been converted to housing estates, and other more questionable endevors.
Writing like this, you will appreciate why the local newspapers stopped printing my work after twenty years, a couple years ago. After all, the oil drilling industry, over various parts of the world, has been the main basis of my life. And I have lived too many days and nights, and months, on rigs, both far off shore, and on, though I’ll admit this still does not make me an expert on the over-all oil industry, just a well read and informed participant, with aqauintances in the right places. But this does not stop you turning to the net, for what you need to know.
The coming energy crunch, is ominous and inescapable, though difficult to strike with an exact date. We need to down grade our energy consumption when it comes to petrolium usage, and do our best to lower our contribution to global warming in other ways too We are, after all, a microcosm of the whole world. Look at us, and then just multiply for a bigger country.
We don’t need to drive huge SUV or multi horsepower cars in this small island. Soon enough, they will be rusting all over the place, stuck, without fuel. The flyovers and the big highways will be lovely to cycle and walk on, and the air will become much more pure, and walking or cycling again, will make us much fitter.
Will the donkey and the horse come back, and will we still find cartwrites like the one who lived at the bottom of the hill to District C police station ?
Now let the Barbadian start thinking seriously about this, and let us hear what he thinks ??? And please don’t take what I have written lightly, as the BBC is full of the fast-coming energy problem,…..BBC today.. Don’t ask me about the possibilities of offshore Barbados oil, either. To ask that, …..is taboo.
Colin L Beadon.
By JOHN WILEN, AP Business Writer Thu Oct 25, 3:19 PM ET
NEW YORK –“ Oil futures jumped to a new record close of $90.46 a barrel Thursday on news that OPEC production increases aren’t coming as fast as expected and that the cartel won’t announce new output quotas when it meets next month.”
Nothing surprising about that, you may say, oil is hitting new highs with a regular monotony this year.
In January, the average price for a barrel of oil was just above $50, and now it has reached $90 a barrel, a scary 80 percent increase without there having been a major catastrophe or war in between.
That should make us sit up and start thinking.
What is causing this dramatic price rise if it is not simply supply and demand?
Government’s and the oil majors offer soothing words about the huge reserves which can be drawn down at the raising of OPEC’s hand.
So why aren’t they being tapped and the price kept “reasonable” ?
Oil is a finite, never to be replaced, resource on which our modern world is utterly dependent… and it has been running out from the very first barrel extracted.
Many oil experts believe we have now used up around half of the earth’s total store, and that was the easy-to-get-at half.
That means we have come to the end of cheap oil, and now it gets a lot more serious.
The time for placatory words ignoring the elephant in the room is nearly over.
We are about to suffer Supply and Demand Theory in raw action, as supply is starting to buckle under the onslaught of rampaging global economic and population growth.
On the supply side the some indications of the mounting problems are :-
We are using four times more oil than is being discovered, and have done for the last 20 years.
Much of the world’s reserves belong to countries not overly sympathetic to the needs of Western SUV drivers, or for that matter any government imposing democracy.
Many oil-producing countries are using more and more oil at home – leaving less to sell abroad.
A growing feeling in many producer nations that they must save some oil for future generations, not just sell it as quickly as possible for the fast buck.
Why, when you are not desperate for cash, sell it this January when you can get twice as much next January, especially with the depressed dollar. It could well be the dollar as a measure of production is dying, with usable energy as the new currency.
Royal Dutch Shell has just raised its profits 16%…. despite a drop in production, so why bother investing for reduced returns on capital..
Demand is remorselessly increasing exponentially year on year, along with the population, and the pretence of OPEC’s stated reserves is being seriously questioned.
Why if we have all these reserves are whole countries now finding themselves unable to access supplies …… and which will be the next countries to suffer?
I am in total agreement with Colin L Beadon, and urge Barbadians to research some of the above.
The ramifications of oil shortages on Barbados’ economy far exceed the overhyped threat of global warming.
There is nothing wrong with solar steam driven generation.
Our little island has designed and built world class solar water heating pannels. The Spanish, recently, have taken it a step further using parabolic mirrors to concentrate the sun’s energy and make steam. They are driving steam turbines for electicity, using the sun’s heat. Their first station is 12 hundred megawatt, if I remember correctly.
It is reasonable to suspect that like solar water heating, this is the cheapest and cleanest way to do garner energy without harming the environemnt, or, using fossil fuels. Even the water used in producing the steam ( and probably rain water would be best for us, because of our lime stone ) can be recycled when it has condensed.
The steam turbine is an expensive power unit and requires a good quantity and quality of steam. There is no reason why piston driven steam engines, much easier to make, less costly to build, and much more economical on steam requirements, can’t be used. Take a look at Preston Services on the net, if you feel small steam piston driven engines are not already driving small generators, and it will suprise you. Such systems have been in use nearly 100 years.
These things are well within the ability of local engineers to design and make in the island.
The only two things we can’t get away from, are Batteries and,……doubting Thomases.
Colin L Beadon
OOPs,…… Very sorry.
Correction : The Spanish first solar power station in Seville, produces 11 megawatts. Not 100 megawatts as I first thought.
Colin L Beadon
Possibly in tandem with a modern garbage incinerator to negate the battery storage factor and go 24/7.
I make the following comments only as general observations they do not necessarily relate to the issue being discussed:
Free Trade Area of the Americas – FTAA
The role of trade liberalization as a motor of growth in the Hemisphere was recognized by the Heads of State and Government when, at the Summit of the Americas in December 1994, they decided to establish the FTTA….
The 1990s have witnessed an unprecedented growth in the number of agreements covering rules on foreign direct investment in the Americas. Countries have signed bilateral investment treaties (BITs) included investment chapters in their trade agreements…
They also allow countries to accept international arbitration as a means of solving disputes that might have arisen between the host state and foreign investors, reversing what had been the tradition of most Latin American countries based on the Calvo doctrine….
Bilateral investment treaties and trade and intergration agreements use different criteria to define the nationality of a company or legal entity in order to grant it the benefits of an “investor” under the agreement. These criteria include the place of constitution; place of seat; and nationality of Countries with common law tradition use the place of incorporation of a company to determine its nationality….
Civil law countries traditionally rely instead on the place where the management or seat of the company is located…
Increasingly, and departing from what was common in earlier agreements, BITs apply not only to investments made after entry into force of the treaty but also to those made prior to that date….
Fair and Equitable Treatment and full Protection and Security:
Although this principle does not create any liability for the host State, it”serves to amplify the obligations that the parties have otherwise taken upon themselves” and provides a general standard for the host State “to exercise due diligence in the protection of foreign investment.”…..
Compensation:
In relation to the value of the expropriated investment, most treaties use the term”market value” or “fair market value,” while others use expressions such as “genuine value” immediately before the expropriatory action was taken or became known, thus protecting the investor from the reduction in value that may result as a consequence of the expropriation…..
On another point of “Free Trade Agreements” I do not know if you saw this on TV two nights ago.
As you know the NAFTA North American Free Trade Agreement was brought into being by the then Prime Minister of Canada, Mulrooney, with its trading partner the USA. This agreement was going to f—-rt wonders and s——it miracles for the consumers especially in Canada when it came to buying big ticket items like cars, appliances etc it was to be gradually phased in.
However to this day the Canadians never did see parity in prices on these consumer goods with its US neighbor and the agreement has been in effect at least two decades.
Now all of a sudden the Canadian dollar has increased in value to approximately $1.03 when compared to the US greenback guess what? All of the North American Automobile Manufactuerers I cant speak for the Japanese have said no US auto dealer can sell a US car at the lower price due to the increased value of the Canadian dollar to a Canadian resident. Were it allowed a Canadian could cross the border and save thousands on certain models. And here is another thing a car built in Canada is shipped to the USA and that model sold cheaper in the USA than the same model is sold for in Canada where it was made . Go figure.
Bombardier who the Canadian taxpayer has subsidized for too long also issued directives to dealers selling their products in the USA not to sell to Canadians. As a result Bombardiers jet skis cannot be purchased by Canadians in the USA now that the Canadian dollar is on the move. So much for Free trade Agreements until the court rules!
This has so infuriated the Canadian consumer that they have just sued the Auto Industry for “discrimination”.
Free Trade agreements, Globalization and all of this crappola does not one damn thing for Joe Public or the consumer. It was meant to allow industry to exploit destinations where there are no Unions, there is no safety Legislation, labour is dirt cheap and in many cases child labour is used. And therefore higher profits are the motive for these smoke and mirrors BS.
I just heard Mia Mottley on VOB. She said “we will be our own alternative to the BLP 1994 to2007″.
She was speaking at the BLP annual conference.
To be fair I would like to hear or see a transcript of her entire speech but my immediate comment is “why would the greatest,most successful political party of all time in Barbados need an “alternative?”
Did any of my fellow bloggers hear what I heard?
Yes, Hants, I heard it – loud and clear. That is what she said.
A mysterious and convoluted concept, esp. from a lawyer.
My immediate thought, on first hearing, was a coup d’etat was in the offing.
Not surprising really from the discontent we are hearing.
Thanks Thistle and Straight talk. At least I heard it correctly.
I really want to hear the BLP spin on what she said.
My question to her is ,What is wrong with the BLP 1994 to 2007 that makes an “alternative” necessary?
Remember royalrumble or Sylly writing on this blog “Father of First world Barbados and Prime Minister for life”?
Prehaps Mia was just caught in the moment.
Taken from the BLP website.
ADDRESS BY
THE RT. HON. OWEN ARTHUR
CHAIRMAN
BARBADOS LABOUR PARTY
“There are also proposals for significant investment in tourism related development at North Point in St. Lucy, at Retreat and Road View in St. Peter, at Dover in Christ Church, at Apes Hill in St. James, plans to expand Harrisons Cave, proposals to build a water park attraction, among many others.”
“Water Park attraction”????????
Say what?
“It is as if he is seeking to exercise a divine privilege to leadership on no stronger grounds than that he has inherited his father’s looks.”
“I detect the encroachment in some quarters of this Party of an ostentation of manner, unwillingness to accept sacrifice and unwillingness to stay connected to the foundation values of this Party.”
“Around him also are some of the original negrocrats of Barbados, those who feel that they and only they have a natural right to lead Barbados because of their supposed class and social standing.”
“To all my opponents, I beg you please, do not write me off yet. For as I said in my very first statement as a leader to this Party in 1993:
“I have not yet begun to fight”.
Read the Chairman’s message at http://www.blp.org.bb/
Message to BLP members with Prime Ministerial ambitions. At least FOUR more years of waiting.
The next Prime Minister will be Thompson or Arthur.
$ 100 US barrel oil, is bearing down on us.
What does one barrel of oil produce ?
One barrel is equal to 42 U.S. Gallons. Oil is usually cocktailed, or mixed, with oil from various places, to give a more uniform blend to go through refining processes.
One Barrel of oil, then gives out the following:
Gasoline 19.5 Gallons
Fuel Oil 9.2 ”
Jet Fuel 4.1 ”
Aphalt 2.3 ”
Kerosene 0.2 ”
Lubricants 0.5 ”
Petrochemicals
and other products 6.2 ”
Sysmic work will show the possibility of certain subterranian zones, but only tests taken by actual drilling, will show the porosity and permeability of those zones. And it is upon these two aspects, porosity and permeability, that the fruit, or dead loss, of such a drilling project depends
To get a better handel on all this, and save me going into detail about what has already been written in a well simplified and utterly understandable way, by experts, who make their bread and butter, knowing what they are talking and writing about, I’ll refer you to Marvin Fergus, a petrolium Geologist at Harbor Rescourses.
Marvin Fergus, has written a short and very concise book, of just a few pages, with coloured diagrams, understandable, to even the most disinterested of us.
It is about time we begin to know what we need to, about the petrolium industry, and why it will hurredly become the predominant agenda in our lives, and why we should take what politicans spill out to us, with more than a grain of salt.
Go to Google and down load the pictures and the gen: Oil and Natural Gas drilling and production projects .HTM
It is just a few pages, all worth reading, and I am indebted to Straight Talk, for backing me up on all this. Colin L Beadon.
At the risk of boring everyone, please take Mr Beadon’s advice and read up on what really is happening to our energy supplies.
The world is rapidly running out of cheap oil.
Google “Peak Oil”in their Video category and select any of the primer clips.
You may be amazed at what your leaders are not telling you.
This issue has now moved from the realms of treehugger nutcases into mainstream business news.
It is only because the large news networks who rely on the advertising from the mega-corporations, and are most vulnerable to the consequences of a shortfall of oil, that this is not the lead item of every bulletin or front page.
A debate has to be joined right now here in Barbados about formulating a whole new global economic model.
Globalisation without cheap transport is a dead duck.
We need to address among other things food security, the demise of tourism as we know it, new forms of power generation and transport, our $US peg and the collapse of existing financial markets.
Call me nuts, as I did the doom-mongers of two years ago when I first started reading up on this.
But everything they warned of is coming true and at a pace that will overwhelm the unprepared.
Don’t take my word for it, spare 15 minutes looking into it, and I assure you our local problems will fade into insignificance.
Colin L Beadon, I for one would be fascinated if you broke your taboo and gave your take on Barbados’ Offshore Oil prospects.
In answer to Straight Talk, on the question of Barbados offshore oil. The issue is way too sensitive, and too hot to handle at this time.
Instead, we could switch our attention to the advances on Solarthermal steam. Now this is something I’m certain local industry could work on and produce. You just have to go to Google and dial up : ‘Solarthermal’ .
The SEGS system in California produces 350 Megawatts, and is, at this time, the largest system now built in the world. They use parabolic troughs heating oil filled collecting tubes that transfer the hot oil through a heat exchanger turning water to steam. On the same site, you will find much smaller systems that range in the Kilowatt size.
I think, probably, I should confine my writing, to the Random section of BFP, where the listings are much more sparse. CLB
Colin L Beadon:
Whilst respecting your choice in ” pleading the fifth” with regard to actual probability of exploitable reserves, can you give this blog the benefit of your experience re: say the shortage and advanced age of deep water drilling rigs and what response our government can expect from prospective tenderers, and how the oil industry prioritises its global exploration activity.
Reply to Straight Talk
You can find out much more about drill ship and semis availability and age, by going to the net.
You can find actual rig counts in any part of the world, just about.
It is not only rigs, on and offshore, that are in drastic short supply, but everything that goes with them, like drillpipe, casings, downhole pumps, pipe handeling tools, cementing units, and completion equipment, but probably most of all,
experienced men, according to drilling friends in Trinidad. Young people don’t want to get stuck out half their lives on rigs any more, to learn what they need.
I’m really not into the bidding and all that process, which to me is a dark deathly subject, full of stealth and politics. I just stayed with the rigs.
The net can fill you in on most of that, if you just ask the right questions. For instance, go, on Google, to Barbados Offshore Oil Leases, and you’ll get all the maps. Anybody in the world, can see the blocks there.
Now the steam. We drilled five steam wells in the Sulhur Springs area of St Lucia in 1975-6. Great fun and exciting, and at times horrifying, and very noisey when the wells were being tested,…. etc. But all that is an old story, of long ago, and the Trini crews took over all the nice girls in Soufrier.
CLB:
Can you shed any light on claim by John Kanzius that he has discovered a way to use salt water as fuel? I would understand why the oil companies etc would not want something like this to see the light of day.
Barbados would not have to drill a single well and put our beaches at risk. We can use all the salt water around us.
In your opinion is it a hoax or not?
Please review the video at ..
Roy Boy;
Amazing “backyard inventions” – I love ‘em.
Wonder what the EROEI (Energy Returned on Energy Invested) is on his frequency generator.
Returning to Roy Boy on the question of clean energy out of salt water. I’ll pluck a stanza from Kayyam.
‘The Grape that came with Logic absolute
The Two-and-Seventy jarring Sects confute:
The Subtle Alchemist that in a Trice
Life’s leaden Metal into Gold transmute. ‘
The great innovators come to us between the ages of 17- 35. They bring a lot of trash, often, but then, lo and behold, one of them will stand up in a science foram, and start expounding, hesitantly and uncertainly, a new theory.
To most in the learned gathering, the theory will seem far-fetched, or above their heads. To a few, it will seem a little old hat and too simple to really mean anything. But to just one or two, it will bring sudden light into their eyes, and they will rise up from their seats as if to hear better.
That is how the great innovations arrive amongst us, like soft-falling snowflakes from God, and how they have always arrived, and been usualy laughted at, or tucked away and forgotton for years. This happens to many of the great abstract math equations, which, in their beauty nobody fully understood, and so they languished until , often 50 years later, they were taken out again, dusted off, and found to slot, exactly, into a new physics problem of today.
You find out these things, if you read the books written by, or about, famous physicist like Freeman Dyson, Paul Davies, John Gribbin, James Gleick, and others, who wrote books for you and me to understand,…. and marvel at.
So who should say,… saltwater, which holds so much of our hydrogen, could not be the golden new energy we are seeking ?
Greetings,
With your permission I would like to send a press release on a new
book that will be published this fall, “Black Inventors, Crafting Over
200 years of Success”.
This book identifies Black inventors from Africa, Australia, Canada,
Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe, Russia, United Kingdom
and the United States.
Sincerely,
Keith Holmes
The Global Black Inventors Research ProjectS, Inc.
Tel: 646-610-1485
Fax: 718-284-8965
************************
BFP replies…
Sure. We’d be happy to feature your book.
Send it along to our email
barbadosfreepress@yahoo.com
BFP how about an energy feature. I am confident that “CLB” would be only too happy to write the lead article. If we can keep the bloggers on track it may lead somewhere.
The Physicist James. H. Smith.
Has anybody seen a book by or about, the work of the Physicist James. H. Smith ? Perhaps Keith. C. Holmes can help us there too.
To get people interested in physics, especially the young, is to show them how way out it is, especially quantum physics. You want a real mind bending trip, that can’t get you locked up ? Take a swing at QP.
QP may seem utterly beyond most of us, but it is not if you read little bit at a time, and in conjunction with what it teaches us about the Universe, and what it has enabled us to know, and to do, in the way of modern technology.
All these little boxes we plug to our ears, and have our eyes glued on day and night, came from understanding Quantum Physics and its application. We would be without computers, if it were not for QP.
If I am writing too much on BFP, please just tell me to cool it.
Kudos to you Colin if you think you ‘ve got a handle on QP.
Was it Professor Feynman who said ” If you think you understand Quantum Physics, you don’t understand Quantum Physics”.
P.S. You’re not writing enough, step it up!
Idealist, Good. You nailed Quantum Physics down well. It takes about three years reading about it, and how it is applied, and tested, and retested, and still you can never get a visual handle on it, or understand what ‘ One and a half spin is ‘ , or what a vertual particle is, or how it can only last one millionth of a second.
Look at us these days, talking about quantum leaps, thinking they are like huge striding advances, when they are more like the hesitations in the propagation of light, so small we don’t even notice them.
And so it is, we must end up with Richard Feynman’s brilliant diagramatic metaphors, to shed some light on the unshedable, where maths and language, come to the end of the road, and can take us no further, brilliantly explained in the book by the physicist Paul Davies ” The Mind Of God. ”
Actually, I think it was Hans Bethe, you quoated. QP is not something you understand. It is more like an act of faith, that works, if you apply the right questions long enough, and believe in it.
” The Mind is a product of the Universe.
The Universe, a product of the Mind. “
CLB;
Ergo Schizophrenia is a product of the multiverse,
and the multiverse is a construct of the split personality.
Only in jest!
Regards
S t
Dear Barbados Freepress
I sent you 2 emails with attachments this morning, one at 8.09 AM and one at 8.19 AM.
These emails show and prove that illegal events are occurring and have occurred at Vaucluse. Town Planning has told them to stop, The Ministry has told them to stop, the residents have told them to stop.
Right now they are going all out as I write this, marling, bulldozing, and making roads.
ILLEGAL DANGER ILLEGAL DANGER ILLEGAL
…—…—…—…—…—…—…—…—…—…—…—…—
Will you please publish the photos and the letter I sent with the evidence?
*******************
BFP Comments
Yes, later tonight.
I must first say that I sympathise with the residents of Vaucluse and its surrounding areas but what this is saying to me that we have a serious set of double standards happening in Barbados.
These double standards are clearly evident in this situation where Owing has a member of his party supposedly representing the residents of the area now she is supposedly trying to support their cause (now if she is or if she is not is another issue because by saying she is but does nothing really she is not) but despite her attempts to reach a settlement in favour of her people she has been stonewalled by the other part of the double standard and that is the Owing I like collect money Arthur side.
I will be so bold to state that Owing is prepared to turn a blind eye to this development because the white elite of Barbados are involved and he has been paid off to issue the permissions quietly to them in exchange for some election cash, and the lord knows he really needs another million or two really.
The movers and shakers of this project are the Coziers from Eastern Land Developments the bidders that want the 4000 odd acres of Barbados Farms lands and one Bizzy Williams another one of those vultures for the same lands.
So my friend in a nutshell you have not got a hope in hell to keep the race track out with these players being involved and part of it, your best bet is to seek the support of the candidate for the DLP and explain the situation to them and let them focus on it and make it a platform issue then the DLP will address it when they form the gov’t or for the blp to become so aware of the size of the issue that they have no choice but to address it right away(I wish you luck in this approach).
My best wishes are extended to you for a favourable result.
Before we get to emotion, let’s ask ourselves who are the objectors from Vaucluse, Dukes, and close to the villages of Shop Hill, Christie Village, Whitehall and Vaucluse and what year did you collected those signatures.
WIV, we should be here to discuss issues, but everytime a blog is posted, I see one sided discussion by you and certain commenters with biased agendas. How come you are not defending my buddy Ronald Jones with the proposed football stadium. The same objector’s behaviour but another community.
CRIME:
an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or the omission of a duty that is commanded by a public law and that makes the offender liable to punishment by that law
ST, True, Very possibly true about split personality, but surer still about dyslexia and being unable to spell. But Leo Szilard, the physicist,….. champions me on.
‘Speak to all men as you do to yourself, with no concern for the effect you make, so that you do not shut them off from your world; lest in isolation the meaning of life slips out of sight and you lose the belief in the perfection of creation.’
The sun has been burning its hydrogen for 13 billion odd years. It is supposed to go on burning it like that , economically, for about the same period again. That should tell us something about what use we should make of the sea water, where most of our hydrogen is stored.
The sun burns hydrogen due much to its size, and because, extremely economically, it does not have businessmen, politicians, or Green Peace, to tell it, ” You cyant use atomic fusion. ”
Atomic power stations burn by atomic fission, because we have not been able at this point, to get atomic fusion to work on Earth. They are supposed to be building the first atomic fusion plant ITER, now, in France.
We read some couple years back, that two old car tyres burning under the process off atomic fusion, would light the whole Eastern seaboard of the USA, for several months. There was also a joke, that a fellow built himself a very small reactor and blew off the top of his little finger.
But, look nah, Straight Talk, doesn’t using a pseudo- name instead of your own, whisper an inkling of personality split ? Your own, and your assumed ?
CLB:
On pseudonyms – I was only saying the very same thing to my alter ego earlier this morning , but he disagrees he likes it so, and as we live in the same cranium it stays for the sake of peace and quiet.
BTW, I see on The Oil Drum that the CEOs of BP & Conoco have this week joined with Total and admitted we have reached Peak Oil and for the foreseeable future demand will outstrip supply.
Quite a turnaround in one year.
More experts will have to eat humble pie before long.
CLB:
I’ve been taking a one and a half spin round the QED block with a Doorly’s as my passenger.
And then I thought..How about every half spin creates its own dimension and concomitant universe ? We then have a nanoverse, nay a veritable infiniverse.
Billions of the things all existing in close parallel.
Very occasionally peeping through into its neighbour or subtly affecting it, such as the massive gravitational force only acting so so weakly upon our perceptions.
Then I hit a pothole and spilt the lot.
The Nation Care’s that’s The Nation Newspapers “motto”
Michelle.jpg
But the Publisher Vivian-Anne Gittens and Executive Editor Roxanne Gibbs Fire’s reporter with cervical cancer Michelle Blenman
Multi-Universes and Re-Incarnation.
Straight Talk. The Multi-Universe theory has always left me with a feeling of remorse and sadness, as though some major Physicists have come to a dead end , and don’t know where to turn next.
The theory reminds me of human Re-incarnation, which is that only part of a wonderful and ancient religion I find hard to swallow, as though it spells out ” Well, you are very poor and outcaste in this life around, but if you are good, hardworking and honest, you can be born into a better life,…. next time. ” It is very possibly the reason why the poor have lived like they are living now, since ever,…. in India. It is the Indian excuse for,… its poverty . And now Mother Theresa has gone too.
It is strange how religions and science mirror eachother in so many ways. Each tend to become stuck on their mataphors, bearing with them as though they were absolute truth. Luckily for scientists, most tend to fully understand there is no thing such as absolute truth. There is only a moveable feast.
” I have always thought it curious that,
while most scientists claim to eshew religion, it actually dominates their thoughts more than it does the clergy. ”
That was written by the famous physicist Fred Hoyle, and one can fully understand why he felt like that, if one reads on Science, the Universe, Quantum Physics and modern Biology. Scientists do, come face to face with the Awesome, as though God were leaving them small signposts of new understanding, goading them on.
‘At last, I heard a voice upon the slope
Cry to the summit, ” Is there any hope ? ”
To which an answer peeled from that far land,
But in a tongue no Man could understand .
And on the glimmering summit afar withdrawn, God made himself the awefilled Rose of Dawn. ‘
Nobody knows who wrote that. It is more than two hundred years old. It could have been a scientist, a cleric, or a jailbird, any one of them locked in a dead end, or a ‘Dark Night of the Soul.
CLB:
For a new and beautiful ” Exceptionally Simple Theory of Everything” check out New Scientist’s story on Lisi, and his unification work with E8.
Hey Thanks for Lisi, ST. It was about time somebody, far from sheltered halls and blinkers, was hatched. String theory and Multi Universes, were both too perverse. It needed somebody from a pounding sea with gulls crying overhead, salt and wind- clear mind, to get struck, and spawn a new way forward, like a glow worm lighting a hidden trail.. God hope, we shall find a Universe, far from obtuse.
I have noticed a change in the way religion operates. The Shepherd no longer looks after the flock but the flock looks after the Shepherd. We give them big cars, help with donations to build their houses, give them air conditioned rooms that are attached to the church while the rest of the church goes hot for a lack of fans to keep the members cool.
I have also noticed that the church no longer focuses on the soul but what the soul has to offer; money and free service. If you have neither of the two you are looked upon as nothing. There was a crusade being held in the St. Michael district where the pastor was quoted as saying (Sat 17th Nov) that if you don’t pay tithes and offering you cannot do anything in his church. So a note to all, if you want to perform in his church, please pay your performance fee.
(Note: money is more important than souls)
Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan. Notice in the story it was the church leaders who passed him by in his time of need. In our time of need the same thing is being done by our pastors, and it is left to those who we think very little of to help us because they are the only ones we can rely upon.
That is why, Anonymous, there is only one true religion, and why few Christian religions today, have been able to make a dent in Buddism.
How many of our cleric could live with just a bowl and a cloak, in the cold austerity of a Buddist monestary high in the Himalayers ?
Besides being 500 years older than Christianity, Buddism, and for that matter Hinduism, the oldest of all religions, are both Pro Mother Earth religions, which Christianity is most certainly not.
Moments of Euphoria.
There are moments in life when, if one is lucky, one climbs into a state of euphoria. Such a state was induced this evening, out on a walk with dogs, and a Barbadian sunset. The low clouds were alight with flecks of gold leaf, strewn, as if by the hand of a giant. The Sugar cane, arrowed, in silvered spikes across the high plateau of St John.
Somehow, when once home, we picked Wagner’s Parsifal, so that the tolling bells and the Transformation music, fill the home.
Parsifal speaks. ‘Who is the grail ? ‘
Gournemanz replies, ‘That cannot be said, but if you yourself are called to the service that knowledge will not reamin withheld- and see !
I think I know you aright; no earthly part leads to it, and none could tread it whome the Grail has not guided. ‘
Parifal again. ‘I scarcely tread, yet seem already to have come far. ‘
Gurnemanz again. ‘ You see, my son, time here become space. ‘
But it was not only that today, which drove us to such rapture. It was the fourth reading of the book by James Gleick. ‘ Genius ‘
Based more like a novel, on the life of Richard Feynman, bringing in world wide, all the famous scientist, each making entry, one by one on the stage of advanced physics. Here is a book, on the sweat and tears, on the joys, and the deep sorrows. Here is a book so deep, and in many ways so profound, encompassing a world few of us know, comprehend, or in many instances are even willing to dare enter.
Yet, open any page, and start reading, and see if you don’t want to go further.
James Gleick, author of Chaos, far outdid himself in ‘ Genius ‘ . Vintage Books ISBN:
0-679 74704-4 with photos of some of the greats, and many memoriable moments. Physics, as its very best.
Don’t lend your copy out, ever. Not if physics hooks you.
CLB:
Feynman said “All science is physics, they just don’t like to admit it.”
Take and give pleasure in your writings of late found discoveries.
Will somebody, carefully and gently deflate us,
under the long- dried leaves of yesterday, fearing,…. we write too much and too often, like Chaves, who in his self- primed inflation, was told a few days ago by the King of Spain, …. ” callarse “. Or, Shut up !
Did I hear right on the news tonight that a 700 million dollar hospital is to be built?
Election must be coming sooner than I thought.
Maths, and its Quarks.
Tonight I can’t write. I wanted to write about
advanced maths, and how it has helped us understand the Universe, and about the debate as to whether, like the egg or the hen, maths or humans came first. Or perhaps it is something like light, that does not exist unless there is an eye and a brain to perceive it.
I wanted to write about S. Ramanujan, who lived in a small village in India, and came up with the most amazing theorems of his own design and making, though he had never had formal training in maths. And how he was found, and how he astonished the most brilliant abstract mathematicians of his time, and how later Ramanujan and his theorems that had been mostly written without proof, reached G.S.Hardy at Cambridge.
But Ramanujan suffered cultural shock in the modern world, and died at age thirty three, leaving a vast stock of mathematical conjectures for posterity.
I wanted to write all that, but it would not all come out right, probably because maths has mostly been way out of my ken, though I admire people greatly who fully understand and can manipulate it. Or does the maths manipulate them ?
Consider adding my blog to your BlogRoll: http://greenbb.wordpress.com/
I am documenting my humble Bajan Kitchen Garden… the blog is called:
GoGrow: Barbados
Regards,
greenbb
‘ Peak Oil. Life After the Oil Crash !!! ‘
Check this site out, and think carefully. We are just as guilty of over energy consumption as anybody else in the prolific part of the world.
We are just as guilty of using up precious agricultural land, with deep top soil, when it is obvious we will shortly have to grow, or raise, everything we eat. Without fuel, ships and aircraft can’t bring us what we need. Tractors don’t yet,…. run on water. Yes, we can make plowshears, (we would have all the transport stuck on the sides of the roads to convert to plowshears) but where are our horses, forges and blacksmiths ?
We remember the war when petrol was rationed and you just got a few gallons a month. But we may not even get that.
We can survive and adapt, and be happy, though our life style will have to change dramatically. And we will have to learn, all over again, how to be fully civil and careing, and how to work hard with our hands.
Anyhow, read ‘ Peak Oil. Life after the oil crash ‘, and draw your own conclusions. It does not seem we will have another form of energy, in time, capable of running the world we know today.
At the risk of we being considered a double act, Colin, I will just add my two penn’orth.
The reason global warming is being hyped as the next big boogyman we need our governments to protect us from is simply that it gives a good reason to increase our tax burden with a warm greenish glow.
What does the Environment Tax get spent on?
I am much more concerned that world oil production, in a time of growing demand, has fallen 1% over the last 100 weeks as opposed to the
earth has got warmer by 0.5 deg.C in the last 150 years.
Check it out for yourself, you’ll be surprised.
If cheap oil did in fact end in 2005, as most experts would now agree, we can forget Carbon Tax
as the collapse of industry will self-regulate the so called greenhouse emissions.
BTW “Greenhouse” gases only make up 0.5% of the troposphere, our actual greenhouse shield, which incidentally has not warmed at all since measurements have been taken.
Now isn’t that strange!
Hold on to your wallets, global warming is the scam to cover the end of the oil age.
I wish to submit a cartoon on swamp shooting to you. How do I do this? Do you have an “e” address?
********************
Hi Michael
Our email address is barbadosfreepress (at) yahoo.com
Oil, global warming, and swamp birds.
To : Straight Talk, with thanks, and Michael Shemilt, wishing him our whole- hearted success.
Somebody wrote, perhaps it was James Lovelock
( who wrote ‘ Gaia ‘, or perhaps it was Carl Sagan ) , that Mother Earth’s nature would survive, using her own devices, which might not include the survival of Mankind.
So it has seemed to us possible, that the fast- ending era of fossil fuel, may be nature’s way of stopping global warming, before it exceeds any possibility of our own very doubtful attempts at
regulation.
One does not really see how the continuation of new transport manufacturors being set up in new countries world wide, more aircraft being built (like in India, coming up with their own design aircraft, and automobile industries, and they have a perfect right to want to do this ) ,….. One gets to the stage of ‘Words- break- down ‘, while up and up, goes the ever- dwindling petro production.
The slaughter, of tired, inter- continental- flying swampbirds, is an old story we attacked a number of years ago. We could send you the letter local papers refused to print, though it was printed in Trinidad and reached back here. This was about 1987. We could tell you we were not the only ones that had been put under extreme pressure about writing on the slaughter, which is under no stretch of the imagination, sportman like, and is in no way restricted,… according to bag limit. Most of the birds shot, are not, in civilized parts of the world, classified as game birds, and so the flocks circle, and circle the killing fields, until they are all downed. We had watched, horrified, such happeneings, the blooded feathers, filtering to ground. We almost lost a good job, over it, but that is distinctly,…. another, almost unbelievable story.
We could tell you many other interesting aspects of all this, even that, tounge in cheek, we suggested the slaughter become a tourist attraction.
Anyhow, boys will be boys, and we ourselves went through such period in our lives, but under extreme hunting conditions, elsewhere, where the swamp water and the mosquitos stopped and started, at your arm pits. There were also anaconda and aligators about, and every sudden swirl of the early dawn water, brought your heart into your mouth.
So now that BWU got so many nationally recognised & honoured Senior people, are there going to start living up to there image now, by treating their own staff properly ?
In perspective.
In perspective, Barbados produces 1000 barrels of oil per day, but consumes, in equivalent, ( gas, diesel, aviation, bunker crude, etc), 9000 barrels ( nine thousand barrels) per day. This is equivalent to 5.8 Olympic size swiming pools, each needing 64800 gallons of water to fill them.
A barrel of oil, equals 42 gallons US.
We thought you might like to appreciate this, and be possibly horrified.
The Paucity of Credit in Thompson’s Independence Message
I am dismayed at the poor quality of the Independence Day Message submitted by the Leader of the Opposition to Barbadians in marking their 41st anniversary of independence from colonial Britain. David Thompson’s message lacked real substance (as compared with the Prime Minister’s Message), and apart from a brief reflection on the accomplishments of the builders of Barbados, failed to give any credit for anything contemporary. Indeed, the ill-crafted message suffered from a prejudicial quagmire that resonated in a desperate attempt to sway voters into a sense of guilt because the electorate in their wisdom did not see it fit to oust an administration in 2003, which is still taking socio-economic development to unprecedented levels in 2007. Thompson got it wrong because he does not recognise occasion and neither does he respect national symbols – this was not the political platform.
The Leader of the Opposition’s critical message complained that Barbadians failed to follow a post-independent political trend of “renewing and re-energizing itself every ten years.” The message seemed to suggest that “peaceful regime change” ought to be a matter of compromise rather than a victory based upon competitive politicking, merit, and the people’s vote. One must wonder to what extent ‘change for the sake of change’ sits solidly in the mind of Thompson since his focus is not on the fact that we as a country have witnessed many areas that deserve commendation. It is the gravity of the achievements both by the government and the people of Barbados that Barbadians from all walks of society can be proud and therefore reject the empty inundation by the Leader of the Opposition.
For sure, the unemployment rate has been consistently reduced at this volatile time in global political economy to all time lows, a greater number of persons have access to universal education, and healthcare has remained a social priority for the Arthur administration. Beyond the centralising of Barbados’ development agenda on people, Barbados has successfully hosted the Golf and Cricket World Cup fixtures, and there is a growing reputation for Barbados at regional and international levels in relation to good governance.
The small island-nation is making strides in diplomatic arenas and it engages in a proactive way to enhance many agreements on trade and other issues that have implications for all Barbadians. Barbados continues to unfold its developmental agenda to take it to the next higher stage of development, and even if there was a doubt to this fact, the recent HDI ranking of 31st and the gaining of the number one (1) spot for the fight against poverty (HPI) as indicated in the Human Development report 2007/2008 confirms that reality and our reason as a people why we must be proud of our collective achievements.
More of Thompson’s shameful display of non-statesmanship jumped out at me from several other distorted sentiments which included the fallacious contention that “for the majority of Barbadians, hopes and dreams have been overshadowed by fear and despair.” Surely this type of generalisation was uncalled for and the assumption cannot be substantiated in the absence of any scientific evidence (qualitative or qualitative).
I am not even sure why Thompson would end his message by reminding Barbadians to be celebratory while yet calling upon them to be “statesmen and women and do what is right for our people’s future.” There appears to be some confusion because he clearly refuses to set an example of what is a reasonable demonstration of statesmanship while creating a gender split as if to say that statesmen are the reserve of men only. Nevertheless, it is important for us to contemplate what David Thompson really considers to be an exemplary portrayal of a ‘statesman’ and what will he do to encourage Barbadians to uplift themselves. I hope that Barbadians learn from Thompson’s error that they should never make the poor judgement of being clouded by one’s innate ambitions for grandeur without proceeding on a course of genuine service.
Barbadians are matured, sophisticated, and they are usually quite demanding upon its servants for high standards and excellence. Rather than David Thompson the political leader of the Democratic Labour Party descending to the doldrums of partisan by-play, he should make an incisive and substantial comment on how to further the current administration’s drive towards poverty eradication, a fairer distribution of wealth, and the socio-economic empowerment so as to safeguard a better life for all Barbadians. As on many occasions before, Thompson has come up empty because he delivered nothing. There were no “new ideas and new energy” entering the public domain from Thompson. What a tragic shame!
The Father of Independence and National Hero in Barbados, the Right Excellent Errol Barrow invested sacrificially in the future of David Thompson. Little did the national hero know that Thompson would one day be best and appropriately characterised as a politician so blinded by his own vanity and self-created innuendoes that people matter less to him than the magic of becoming Prime Minister. Thompson is choking on his own words and he is suffering from the very gains he may have accomplished by way of “private and sometimes conflicting aspirations.” In essence, Thompson’s ego and dispositions have become his own perils and put in the position of leadership, he now remains his biggest adversary.
Thought for the day:
Embellish the soul with simplicity, with prudence, and everything which is neither virtuous nor vicious. Love all men. Walk according to God; for, as a poet hath said, his laws govern all.
- Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (Marcus Aurelius)
As our election draws near with a chance of another chapter opening, we must live to principles that hold peace, non-violence, tolerance, community and learning as cornerstones of our society.
We must stand against poverty, must ensure that all citizens especially children have availability of life necessitites including food, housing and learning.
We must work towards improving community life and eliminating conflict and violence.
The seeds for the harvest of tomorrow are sewn by today’s approach and actions.
BFP:
Your Obama thread is not displaying comments.
The Advocate editorial today is warning The BLP about the power of Blogs.
http://www.barbadosadvocate.com/IndexNewEditorialleft.cfm?Type=ED
The article appears to me, Hants, a veiled prompt for the BLP to put some oomph into its blog, or start new ones to counter the very successful BFP and BU.
The Advocate editorial in commenting on the recent elections in Trinidad ends with the critical question facing the electorate there,
“In other words, change from the present government to what?”
That question can be neatly transposed to the present Barbados political cauldron and it is the answer to it that is going to determine the result of the upcoming election.
In my view, the Hardwood Housing issue, while it has exposed Minister Mascoll as being over zealous in promoting the company and somewhat naive in his execution of that promotion, has not done the BLP the damage in the eyes of the electorate that the opposition had hoped and the political capital expended on its prosecution of the case has not been proportionately rewarded.
The DLP needs to prove at least one case of corruption for the barrage of innuendo about the ABC Highway, the prison, etc, if it is to have any serious effect on the re-electability of the present government.
That problem is going to be further compounded if the electorate continues to see the DLP as an alternate government simply waiting for its turn at the trough. The most common retort you keep hearing is “all them politicians is the same” and if the DLP continues to carp about corruption in politics without showing the electorate that it is serious about changing that perception by establishing integrity rules for its own members, it will continue to languish in opposition.
It could go further and seal victory in the upcoming election by establishing standards of accountability, committing to a Freedom of Information Act and a modern Defamation Act.
Tempus fugit, and if the DLP waits until the last moment to act on these matters, it may be too late.
It could go further and seal victory in the upcoming election by establishing standards of accountability, committing to a Freedom of Information Act and a modern Defamation Act.
I think we will remember that part of the package of items laid in Parliament was exactly as mentioned above now if the blp ever choose to address the matter is another thing but they have been laid.
One is having hell with the quantum physics controlling this computer. Letters are going off into cyberspace like virtual particles and 720 spin electrons. Can’t count how many letters one lost.
Hoping one has time to wish Great Christmas and Magnificent New Year. Watch the energy out there on the roads.
Oh woe is one, woe ! Oh Woe ! Woe you dancing particles and let this letter go.
Have any doctors in Barbados been ever held responsible for deaths?
Who Next?
I can’t understand why it is that so many people are dying anonymously in the QEH and no doctors are being charged for their deaths. Could it be that there is a new kind of murderer/doctor hanging out in the QEH. What is the government doing about all these mysterious deaths? What is Barbados coming too?
HEY I HAVE A REQUEST FOR ALL THOSE BAJANS OUT THERE. I AM A 28 YEAR-OLD LADY WHO IS MISSING HER FAMILY SO. I HAVE LOST MY FATHER OVER 20 YEARS AGO AND IT STILL PAINS ME TIL THIS DAY. I AM LOOKING FOR FAMILY IN THE BARBADOS AREA AND DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START. I HAVE TRIED ALMOST EVERYTHING THAT I CA DO IN THIS PART OF TOWN. I LIVE IN THE STATES AND HAVE NO FAMILY TO LOOK AT THAT CAN REMIND ME OF HIM. HIS SMILE, MUSTACHE AND EYES WERE THE LAST THING I SAW BEFORE THEY CLOSED THE CASKET AND THAT IS THE LAST THING I THINK OF EVERYTIME I THINK OF HIM. I WANT TO KNOW MY OTHER HALF AND I WANT THEM TO KNOW MY CHILDREN AND HUSBAND AND DAMN IT ME. I MISS MY BAJAN SIDE. I GO PLACES AND PEOPLE WANT TO KNOW WHERE I AM FROM. I HATE SAYING “NO WHERE I AM FROM CALIFORNIA”, THEN HEARING THE SAME OLD “YOU CAN’T BE, YOU HAVE AN ACCENT, I HEAR IT”. YEAH I HAVE AN ACCENT BUT I DON’T THINK ITS ANYONE BUSINESS WHERE I GET IT FROM. YEAH, MY GENES ARE STRONG AND IT HAS ALL TO DO WITH ME BEING A BAJAN. I NEED HELP. I AM SCREAMING FOR HELP!!! SO PLEASE SOMEONE FROM THE BAJAN COUNTRY LEAD ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. THE EMAIL ADDRESS IS KID19792002@YAHOO.COM. MY FAMILY NAME IS “HOWELL”, AND THE ONLY THING I KNOW ABOUT MY FAMILY ARE MY GRANDPARENTS CECIL AND MYRLE GRIFFITH. IF YOU CAN HELP RESPOND ASAP. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. SORRY I HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO COMMENT ABOUT OTHER THAN THIS WEBSITE GIVING ME AN OPPORTUNITY TO FIND WHO I REALLY AM.
‘ The God Delusion. ‘ BBC Sunday 9th last.
This was an interview about Richard Dawkins new book of the above name. I admire Richard Dawkins, he is an intelligent and well read pro Darwinist, with several well known books to his credit, ‘the Selfish Gene, the Blind watchmaker, ‘ to name two. He places the blame of most of the world’s problems, squarely on Religions. I expect there a quite a few of us who would go along with that.
However, Dawkins is a confirmed atheist, and does not hide it, and that is something I find difficult to accept. He assumes knowing everything about the Universe, with a position like that, and I find it deplorable, as though he had not lived enough years, or really never had his eyes full open. Besides, it is Chistmas time, and nobody will take that from us here in Barbados.
Dear Mr. Beadon
Awaiting further attack from lawless developers, read your post.
Q: Not knowledgeable in many areas; where does the universe end, and what is beyond it?
Is this a question for science or religion, or both?
Q2: If there are things humans cannot understand, are there logically entitie(s) who can?
Good, U.Goodenough. The question on where does the Universe end, is like asking how long is Eternity. They both seem to be beyond space and time, first cause questions, unanswerable by humans with Earth bonded minds. Science suggest the Universe is bent around on itself by the huge gravitational force of everything in it. Yet we are now seeing billions of light years into space, and still discovering star clusters in every direction. As to entities who might exists on other planets or in cyber space, I’ll leave that to your conjecture. But I’m inclined to think, will all the billions of planets that are very probably out there, when you take into consideration our local group, that, yes, there may be very advanced civilisations somewhere, though there is no scientific evidence yet, and yet, the SETI search still goes on.
For us to be the one and only Beings in the Universe aware of it, is just too wierd. The stage is far too big for that. There must be other players somewhere, marveling as we do.
This is just another small editon to U.Goodenough.
Very advanced science today, is drifting into the realm of metaphysics and mysticism, since, at a certain point math and semantics fail. God, may not be the one religions go to war over. There is a spirtual dimension, never-the-the less, but words cannot give a discription of it. It is like something you know to be true, but cannot prove. It probably takes some living of life to reach that point, but it can come very early,… to some.
I hate, finding myself the last to write anything to BFP for so long, feeling, as though, I’m chasing everybody away. Will somebody burst forth to dispell this dillusion. Bring up a new topic, a new vision, to something astounding, or out of the
ordinary. M31 is very clear these days in night skies, Andromida, close to Cassiopia ( the inverted W ) . Does this not provoke wonder. ?
The Universe ?
‘ There was a door, to which I found no key.
A veil, past which I could not see ‘.
Khayyam, in the 11th century, was no better off as regards figuring out the ultimate questions than we are in the 20th, with all our science.
On the BBC, a student asked Richard Dawkins ( the most famous evolutionary biologist ) what he would do when he died, if he found there was a God. Dawkins smiled, and said with no hesitation ” I’d have a lot of questions to ask him. ”
Ourselves, we’d ask, ” What was the reason the Universe began, how did it begin, and when were the laws that govern it written ? Where they written while it was cooling off, before
the plasma mass uncoupled and formed into the material world, or where they written long before the actual beginning of space and time ?
These are the profound questions beyond the ability of man to ever answer, and that is why we don’t see with Atheists like Dawkins, though we can find accord with agnostics.
Maybe, probably, the questions themselves , are irrevelent, human- faulted, based on Earthlife as we feel we know it ???
I have a question for the Barbados Light and Power. Earlier this year, Mr. Worme has been on the tv stating why posting of flyers on the BL&P poles are a no-no. Will they now be targetting the BLP and DLP for all those masses of flyers being posted on poles USING METAL STAPLES?
Just wondering?
Mr Beadon,
Just discovered your most interesting and stimulating posts.
First, in respect of your comments on the issue of global warming and depletion of oil reserves.
It is not only oil that is being depleted. The May 26 edition of New Scientist details the situation with many of earth’s mineral resources -with dire results.
Why would it be implausible to suggest that the earth was deliberately designed and stocked to accomplish a specific mission, and that the fact that resources are being depleted now, -reflects a level of precise design and the near completion of the designed project?
I disagree with my friend Straight talk that global warming is a ‘scam’.
Y2k was a scam. Global warming is in fact a serious reality and the relative small temperature increases have gigantic implications for the planet.
…this just reinforces the supernatural degree of engineering that has sustained the universe in such perfect balance over the last 8K years.
If in fact my theory is correct, it would be a waste of valuable resources seeking to extend earth’s viable lifetime. We should concentrate instead on understanding the reason behind the project and exploring the follow-up designs by the Big Boss Engineers….
what say you?
A reply to Bush Tea.
Wish I could add more to what you have said, but this computer needs service, badly now. Within a few more words, it will freeze. Give me a few days for its regeneration. Gone !
What is the situation with the first televised debate advertised for tonight? Am I right in hearing that it has been called off? Why? Anyone heard anything about the reasons?
Disgraceful CBC
I am a bajan living overseas and following the election online via the parties websites,BFP and CBC TV 8. I have noticed that during the evening news of the last week the BLP ads are constantly given the prime time spot. Now while it is true that the BLP can pay for what it wants in this campaign, my question is this? Why is the opposition not given any opportunity to advertise in these prime time spots? Isn’t the role of CBC as a state institution to provide a responsible blance in its coverage? Why then is the current government allowed to monopolise the air like this?
I would like to hear what the other BFP readers make of this and whether you also see CBC’s role as a disgrace.
Finally, is it just me or has there been a diliberate attempt by the BLP to ensure that the leadership debates did not take place?
My question is why there is no political analysis in the national newspapers, other than Patrick Hoyos in the Borad Street Journal.
It proves that we only have one true journalistic paper.
In terms of the ads on National TV, I think it is wrong and is in direct conflict with the apparent ‘ban’ of journalistic content in the two main National newspapers.
Bush Tea,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you from Dec 31st.
Your suggestion on the possibility of a set Earth time span is plausable. Khayyam wrote:
‘ With Earth’s first Clay They did the last Man’s knead,
And then of the Last Harvest sow’d the Seed:
Yea, the first Morning of Creation wrote
What the Last Dawn of Reckoning shall read. ‘
And though I have always loved Khayyam and pondered his work since young, we have to admit science would not be happy with such a verdict.
What happened to the Incas, the Aztecs, the Mayans. What caused their amazingly advanced civilisations to crumble and drop out, leaving their cities spread across the face of Latin
America ?
If we could answer that question satisfacturally, then we might have a better idea of where and why,…. we may be going.
If you have seen any of the Planet Earth series on the BBC, you will have a much better idea on just how huge and un-explored so much of our Earth still is. To suggest we are running out of everything we need in any near future, is stretching the point. The tutonic plates continue to move and over lap, bringing up reserves of minerals we need. The deep seas are just about,….
unexplored.
Global warming does seem very plausable and very plausably, mostly man made. It seems to have broad scientific consensus, which is what we rely on when it comes to the question of whether a theory is any good. But even here, in Barbados, I’m seeing really sharp, clear, star lit skies that I have not seen in some years, and our horizones, lately, have also been very clear and sharp. There are some strange things going on with the nature I see, but nothing here seems that startling.
The floodings, fires and droughts, in other countries, are nothing new by any Earth standards. It is just that humans have spread across the face of the earth, and placed themselves in harms way,
way too often. The fact that we are so very industrious, has very implicate consequenses, if we are too industrious in the wrong places, and with the wrong materials.
Energy or Extinction ?
Sir Fred Hoyle, famous and respected British Physicist, wrote a book in 1977 called
‘Energy or Extinction’ The book gave the case for nuclear energy in such a way that anybody could undertand it. I keep my copy very carefully guarded, but would lend it out under certain stringent conditions.
Back in 1977, nobody took Sir Fred Hoyle, or his small 80 page book full of graphs and diagrams, very seriously.
And so you see great Britain today, knowing it will have to scrap most of its nuclear power stations which are close- reaching their ‘Junk By’ dates, are in a big flap wondering what they will do to replace what amounts to 20% of their main power generation.
As Sir Fred pointed out in 1977, there is still nothing as safe as Nuclear generation, if you bother to research the deaths caused by it as compared to other forms of energy aquisition. He pointed out, ably, and under stress for his country, that Nuclear power stations take at least ten or twelve years to build, and that at that time, which still means,… Today , there is no other form of energy that can fill Britains huge energy demands , except coal and oil. And you know what both of those do to life on Earth, et al, global warming
implied.
So such sages drift, and warn, through our lives, and we take no heed of them.
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
Like rising oil prices did back in the Seventies, we see a huge surge in oil search going on across the world. And like it did in the seventies, we see a number of countries having success in this search.
Some of the new finds are quite staggering, like Equatorial Guinea’s Benita block, well No 1.2 producing 6755 barrels of oil equivalent per day, gas and condensate. Well No 1.1 hums away , just past 1000 Bbls/day. Equitorial Guinea’s 1996 total production was 17,000 Bbls/day. In 2004 it was up to 371,000/day. This new field in Benita, when more wells have been drilled, will take their total production way on up above their 2004.
If you go to Business Monitor International Ltd on the web, you can get them to send you a daily report on new finds. During the last four or five days we have started to receive this report, not a day has gone by without further oil / gas finds somewhere.
Perhaps, when these new fields come on stream, we shall start to see an oil price fall off again like we have done when the high prices, in the past, prompted great leaps in what turned out,….. productive exploration.
Perhaps, if we are lucky for a time, we can continue to consume as much petroleum as we like and drive around in our huge cars and SUV’s, as fast as we like.
Perhaps, on the other hand, if we have sense, we should remember what we are supposed to be doing to global warming, and await patiently for the new Indian Nano mini car. It does not have electric windows, power steering, airbags or air conditioning, all of which help consume energy in a number of ways, and all of which twist more bills out of our hands at the vehicle distributors, and the pump.
Those same accessories place a lot more on the price of cars and their upkeep, so that without them the new small compact five seater Indian five door, can be sold at US $2500 in India, and has a top speed of 72 km per hour ( which is more than enough for the clogged roads of island Barbados today ).
Just how all these new oil finds will help speed up global warming, and put brakes on the search for alternative energies if the oil price drops radically again, is anybodies guess. One thing is certain: There is no way to turn the world back, just as there will be no way to tell people to stop breathing polluted air.
Interesting article in the Jan/08 issue of The Economist,
thought I would pass on the link.
http://www.economist.com/world/la/displaystory.cfm?story_id=10534965
Will the American guy, who posted here some months ago re: 12 x 12 veg plots, re-post his contact details.
I have several people very interested.
can this happen in barbados with CSME and the influx of guyanese???
http://www.kaieteurnewsgy.com/news.html
BLOOD AND GORE.. click with caution.
Alfred Tennyson. A voice from the past.
And slowly answered Arthur from the barge:
” The old order changeth, yielding place to new,
And God fulfils himself in many ways,
Lest one good custom should corrupt the world. ”
We borrow this passage, in deep respect, knowing,….. The winds of ‘ Change ‘ being so highly important to the self renewal of every country on Earth.
The Oil Supply Gap !
Going to: Energyfiles.com puts you onto ‘Is there a painless way to fill the oil supply gap. ‘
Click on ‘ Supply Gap ‘ at the bottom of the left margin. There are some pretty graphs added to the dialogue. The graphs make the whole site a bit more ‘mind-stilling’ . If that does not get you in a good enough sweat, then go to Daniel Howden’s report ‘World Oil Supplies are set to run out faster than expected, warn scientist, in Independent.co.uk/news/science/world-oil-supplies-set-to-run-out Read ‘ The Importance of black gold’ and ‘ Alternative sources of power ‘.
If you don’t think there will be any coming problem, then go and sleep well. But remember, everything we do today in order to come up with alternative forms of energy, require, first and foremost, the energy of oil to make. Fuel cells, solar panels, wind turbines and all other turnbines used to make electricity, atomic power stations, on and on.
The energy from oil makes just about everything we use daily, computers, sterio and televisions, washing machines, painkillers, cars trucks and busses, cranes, buildings, most plastics, most faming equipment including pesticides and most fertilizers, all aircraft, ships. Many of these things use the energy derived from oil in one form of another, to run them. To grow and process and ship or fly food, consumes much of the world’s oil.
So, will Straight Talk and others, add their pieces so I won’t be the only gloom and doom. What we need now, is creative minds, and quiet places of contemplation.
Colin:
Have tried several times to spark an urgent debate, alas without success.
For fear of “the shepherd boy who cried “wolf” comparison”, I prefer to let events unfold until the obvious catastrophe smacks us on the head.
Then we will say,”Why did our leaders not warn us?”.
What 5-year term leader is going to tell his electorate that he will preside over an economic meltdown and he is totally impotent.
He can’t.
The time for talking is past, even now it may be too late for the necessary action.
My solemn advice to any free thinkers out there is ignore the soothing tones of the popular news media, they are clueless ninnies, study yourself and make sure you understand the full implications of the end of cheap oil.
Everything already predicted is starting to happen, and it may soon come closer to home than S Africa.
For anyone who needs to know the truth about what is happening in the world, it’s not War on Terror, Global Warming, sub-prime mortgages or monoline derivatives …It’s OIL and its is beginning to become scarcer.
Read http://www.theoildrum.com for the plain truth and some excellent primers.
When the ‘popular’ way of life is depicted
As extravagant consumtion
With no love for humility, peace and loving things
When hatred boils daily
And life and death become as nothing
When hopes are being drowned by dollars
And children no more have the innocent playthings of yesterday
Instead being entrenched in an artifical world of electronics, such that their consumption patterns and ‘needs’ are ingrained from early
When a few deaths in a ‘developed’ country are bemoaned and depicted by those in international media and authority as more important than genocide in Africa
And military ‘conquest’ is joyously proclaimed by the media and those in authority
When might is right and the sword rules
We being so caught up in the way others live
And seeking to become like them, with much material things
We forget that love and peace and hope are far more worthy concepts
We forget that tomorrow is never guaranteed, no matter how much or what we have
We sometimes forget to take the time for the important things in life
And we forget that the natural force always ensures balance, sooner or later
It is not by accident, it is not changeable, it is just what is
Peace
Colin/ Straight,
I have not read the links, but from what little I know, the ‘immediate’ impacts of oil shortage are as follows:
1) Rising prices, as the input for production, including transport, processing etc becomes more expensive.
2) Travel becomes more expensive, significantly so, as the fuel becomes expensive.
3) Cost of living worldwide and locally will become more expensive, as fuel for heating, lighting etc becomes more expensive and gosline for cars becomes more expensive.
4) Land for production and basic manufacturing i.e. timber and clay, becomes valuable e.g. Guyana, Belize.
The gap between rich, ‘middle class man’ and poor, becomes even greater, as the rich own the oil company shares, the ‘middle class’ and poor work just to survive.
To me, significant considerations and potential solutions are as follows:
1) Worlwide and we in Barbados need to produce more locally. Both in terms of food and in terms of recycling of plastics, in terms of more local skilled manufacturing of clothes and other goods e.g. furniture, using older, less ‘energy reliant’ methods.
2) Air travel will become exorbitant, hence shipping lines will be more lucrative.
Hence, fuel efficient ships, such as inter-island ferries are the way to go. Move bulk, with as little a unit cost as possible, including people.
It was the old way, why not again.
Some talk about ferries not being the way to go, but to me this is the ONLY way to go for inter-island travel at a cost that we all can afford and maybe the only option we will have in future.
3) Cars – we need to be realistic and accept that we are spending way to much on local travel, as a Nation.
The underlying reason is a public transport system that is not performing to the necessary standard.
Safe, secure, pleasant and timely public transport is essential for us to move forward.
As it is, one cannot rely on getting to an appointment on time; one cannot send their young dayghter on public transport safely (or indeed son); one cannot drive without threat of bad driving from these vehicles.
This is not only unacceptable, but disgusting in today’s world.
And we CANNOT move forward with this status quo.
Public transport MUST be a viable option to reduce costs and improve an efficient operation of all economic sectors.
This will also reduce the choice of extravagant projects for more roads, for more cars, which will be idle anyway when the price of oil is $300 per barrel.
We must ensure that roadways are suitable for bicycling and walking. Very few roads have sidewalks.
With the way drivers are so reckless, everyone chooses a big vehicle to be ‘proteced’ from others.
A family only needs on bigger vehicle for family travel or business, if at all. Any second car should be a ‘small runabout’.
The new fancy highway has no bicycle lane on each side.
Are we trying to be more efficient or more extravagant?
We are a small island, get used to it and live accordingly, including travel choice.
4) Land – This is the corker. Just when things are getting rough and we need our own food production desperately, we have been told and indeed are acting upon the premise that land sale and building provides our only economic viability.
Have we been suckered, or what?!!
Check what has happened to sugar? All of a sudden it is becoming a ‘thing’ overseas to have this great imported sugar from Barbados? After we have been rid of our factories. That is what happens when listening to others.
I wonder if any of these ‘others’ had an interest in our real estate, sitting as it was on suagr plantations?
Now, on a broader note, look at Guyana and Belize.
Large, productive land masses, with low population.
Watch and wait for for larger overseas Gov’ts and corporations to take an interest in these nations.
Valuable land for production which will become instant breadbaskets of this hemisphere.
These are countries that we should be nurturing relationships with, entering productive joint ventures with, for the long term.
Sustainability is a much used and abused word, real sustainability can weather many storms and includes some or much of the element of self-reliance.
Do we have real sustainability?
No. Can we have it?
Yes, to some extent, but we must make the right decisions now. We must avoid extravagance and focuson what is important.
Peace.
Now, having said that.
To what extent is this current ‘crisis’ by natural process or accelerated?
Before Iraq, what was the oil price?
Will oil really become scarce this quickly?
How about the oil shale in Canada and USA? A tremendous reserve?
Yes, oil prices will rise hugely, but is this partly by design, to enrich specific sectors, especially to ensure that the oil shale becomes viable, based on a higher oil price?
Good to see you’re acknowledging there is a problem,Rumple.
My concern is we have run out of the cheap, easy to get oil on which our world’s economies are totally reliant.
As scarcity increases oil will only flow to the richest, strongest countries.
Nations lower down the pecking order will suffer shortages, blackouts and food distribution problems.
It has already started.
As for Alberta tar sands and Colorado oilshale please check out the EROEI ratios ( energy needed to produce usable fuel) before holding them up to be our salvation.
Remember we only need the slightest failure of supply to meet demand for all hell to break loose,
and global supply is stagnating, even with all the technological innovations in prospecting and production, whilst demand is still rapidly climbing.
A western recession may delay the inevitable shortfall, but cannot prevent it.
Many experts in the industry assert that oil production has already peaked. with oil consumption outstripping discovery and production by a ratio of 9:1, the cost of oil has nowhere to go but up.
“Technology is great, but it can’t find what’s not there. In the last five years, we consumed 27 billion barrels of oil a year, but the oil industry discovered only three billion barrels a year. So only one barrel was replaced for every nine we used.”
- L.B. Magoon, U.S. Geological Survey
This makes the Canadian oil sands particularly attractive and leading edge companies are already set to take advantage.
An excerpt from The $20 Trllion Report by Brian Hicks, president of the investment research company Angel Publishing and Chris Nelder, an energy expert who has designed and built dozens of solar energy projects:
“Until now, Canada sent almost all its exports to the US.
Canadian and Chinese firms are now cooperating to build a $2 billion pipeline to ship crude oil from Canada’s vast oil sands in Alberta to the West Coast to be sent by tanker to China.
This is huge…you have 2 massive economies going after the same resource.
It’s the simple law of supply and demand. The price of that resource (oil) is going up!
And that’s why there’s a current “gold rush” by dozens of energy companies to get a stake in the region. Because they know for years to come, Canada might be the only profitable oil play of the 21st Century.”
We cannot escape the coming oil crunch and I accuse the past government of criminal negligence that, in the face of all the available evidence, it has done nothing to reduce Barbados’ dependence on oil. In reply to a question about diversifying Barbados’ energy production capacity, The Barbados Light & Power Company pointed lamely to its proposed wind farm project at Lamberts which at best will have little impact on energy production.
Barbados is blessed with sunshine 365 days a year and yet we have no solar energy capability (water heaters excepted). The technology is readily available, but you can’t blame B,L&P for protecting its profits. Its time for government to act. Solar energy is a must.
Please is this another cover up
The Onel Graham..Liz thompson connection through there Trinidad associated were awarded a BOLT to build the Newton Industrial Park.
Years later and millions wasted the BIDC is now trying to complete this project and go back on an earlier claim of over 30 million dollars to the original contractor.
This project was badly managed and controlled by Oneil Graham…the bag man for Liz Thompson. Check the last campaign and see the role played.
However what is frightening as stated in the accompanying BIDC release is that they are trying to come to a settlement with the former contractors.
This is the same CEO who resigned but is still there. WOrd is that he has to clean up this mess and ensure that the Oneil Graham led team looks good and the losses done spill over to others.
Please Mr Thompson this must be investigated.
While on the Oneil Graham connection could you please reveiw the DEans Town Project. ANother awarded by Liz Thompson to her cronney and another project which is suffering serious financial improprieties and will embarass the government.
Please investigate these going ons urgently and don’t allow them to fall by the wayside.
BIDC story
Work on the multi-million dollar Newton Business Park has resumed with a new contractor and a new team of consultants geared up to bring the project to successful completion.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation, Anthony Sobers, a letter of intent has been signed with the new contractors and the formal contract will be signed before the end of January, 2008.
However the CEO of the BIDC has cautioned there is still much to be done before the Park is ready for occupancy. “We are hoping that if all goes well, the first building will be completed and handed over to new tenants within five or six months, while the second building should be completed around October to November 2008,” he said.
This project was originally scheduled to be completed in 2005 at a cost of approximately $18 million vat exclusive but has met with a number of challenges, leading to the original contractors Hazfeez Karamath Construction Limited (HCKL) being terminated on 30th March 2007. In an effort to satisfactorily and conclusively end its relationship with HKCL, the BIDC has held several meetings with the former contractor’s representatives. The CEO stressed that every effort is being made to achieve a fair and amicable disengagement from the previous relationship with HKCL.
The state-of-the art Newton Business Park reflects an environmentally friendly design, occupying 6.5 acres of land. When completed, the first two buildings will provide 60,000 sq ft for information technology, high-tech service and manufacturing companies.
The Newton Business Park project is part of a larger BIDC Capital Works programme which includes the Pelican Redevelopment Project, renovations and extensions at the Harbour Industrial Park, road resurfacing and roof replacements across several industrial estates and a general improvement in the aesthetics in the Industrial Parks. The corporation is now seeking a further $9m in financing to complete this range of activities and supplement its capital works budget for FY2007-2008.
Alternatives. : And God save the whales.
Great, great ,great, the energy issue is being blasted full force. We need to keep up the heat, as there are several ways people can use simple methods even in their homes and businesses, to make use of alternatives.
In this respect, we’re hoping people will persue the ‘Up draft system’ of energy production.
Any large expance of roof, like on a business warehouse, chicken or sheep shed, church, probably some of the very large house/homes, can be used to run ‘Up draft ‘ generators, if the roof is practically shaped for it. Now let the very ingenious Bajan mind , work on that. The net will give you some ideas on what is already being done with ‘Updraft Generation ‘, but here is a hint:
Have you watched a rotating high roof ventilator recently ? It is not only wind that makes that rotate, and there are ways to make that work a lot faster to produce a lot more power. A shaft down from it, can drive a generator, or an
alternator ( if it is a small roof ). You may have to paint your roof a mat black. There is no doubt, generation can be produced like this.
Ah, the Whales. When will the world wake up to the indescriminate killing of the world’s whales, in the flimsy Japanese excuse of scientific research ? Today we see a mother and her pup, hauled up together out of the sea. Is this not another form of ethnic clensing ? Sorry, we don’t share distinction between animals and man.
We are all part of a symbiotic system than cannot survive long ,….with disintergration. Like the hippos, the elephants, the crocs, the moon, the trees,… the whales serve a very important agenda in the natural system.
‘ Fraud Shock,’ reads front page of the Advocate February 7th 2008. If this is true, then it is not only a shock, but very sickening indeed.
Population of Barbados being about 280 thousand, every Barbadian had to pay about 900 dollars towards paying for this fraud for the year 2007, if you take a middle position on the upper and lower fraud figures as given by KPMG Forensic of Toronto. That it what fraud is costing each person in this island.
Well, there is a big new prison. Perhaps the new government will start filling it with such people responsible for this fraud, and hopefully fines will bring back this missing money. Do we need further wonder what it helping to drive up the price of everything ?
One assumes ‘ the fraudsters’ never thought about what they were doing to the public while they flinched between $224- 320 million off citizens.
To: Rumplestilskin. Your Feb 3rd 2008,
is a classic. The words flow as though you were flooded in a state,…. of elevation.
‘When the popular way of life is depicted as extravagent consumption, with no love for humanity, peace and loving things. ‘
Great. All of it.
A Site for Alternative energy, and such.
Searching back at past letters to Barbados Free press, we came across Roy Boy’s letter of Nov 6th. 2007, in which he suggested ‘How about an energy feature,….’
So how about an energy site on Barbados Free press, since there are probably many who have not much interest in what will become, probably, and surely, mankind’s number one concern.
With such a site, we who understand the becoming and growing problem, can exchange, and thrash out alternative energy ideas, without boring the rest of the BFP readers. Will BFP consider this , or offer alternative suggestion ?
Colin,
Thanks.
R.
Congratulations are due to the incoming Govt. for a radical Throne Speech.
Had it been better delivered, it would have been inspiring, particularly in its addressing of the energy, agriculture and regional travel policies.
Unfortunately I must have missed the section on Integrity, Accountability and Transparancy legislation.
Can anyone tell me what I missed?
Why didn’t I get a Bajangirl rebuke for “Transparancy”.
It is most unfair, but sometimes necessary, that everyone attacks poor old Frank.
Hi Straight talk. The problem with that lady is her hate for Rihanna. She received a shock when I attacked her for her insensitive comment, and like a cornered person, she lashed out at Grammar et al. But you know something, she never showed remorse in her behaviour by acknowledging Rihanna’s win. Just a pathetic upstart. Maybe the kids in her class must have accused her of being a Rihanna hater and the reason to use the blog to exhume her bitterness.
But thanks buddy for helping a helpless bloggin’ paro.
By the way, the reading of a throne speech could be tiresome to read so many pages. The acting GG must be home eating all types of cough drops to soothe his aching throat.
Why didn’t I get a Bajangirl rebuke for “Transparancy”
…………………………………………………………………………………..
Simple, you was not speaking about Rihanna in the article.
‘ The Proper Use Of Land.’
Long time I’ve been waiting for such a letter in the Advocate as written on 10th February 2008, by Peter Webster, a former senior officer in the ministry of Agriculture. His headline reads: ‘ The high multiplier effect of agriculture in an economy results from the fact that food is a necessity for everybody and agriculture largely involves the rural poor who may be described as the base of the economy. ‘
It was a long time somebody should have taken C.O.Williams to task, when C.O.W. said it was much cheaper to import food than grow it locally. As Peter Webster points out, it is actually cheaper to subsidies your farmers ( like many progressive countries do ) than import your food. This is especially more relevant today, with the ever- climbing transportation, shipping, packages and handling costs, due to an ever-climbing world oil price.
What is ever more evident, comes from the famous book:
Small is Beautiful, by the well known economist E.F.Schumacher. Chapter seven, The Proper Use Of Land.
Schumacher quotes from a book of 1955 by Tom Dale and Vernon Gill Carter: Top Soil and Civilization’. ‘ Civilised man was nearly always able to become master of his environment temporarily. His chief troubles came from his delusion that his temporary mastership was permanent. He thought of himself as “ master of the world, “ while failing to fully understand the laws of nature. ‘ and ‘ When he tries to circumvent the laws of nature, he usually destroys the natural environment that sustains him. And when his environment deteriorates rapidly, his civilization declines. ‘
Schumacher adds: Study how a society uses its land, and you can come to pretty reliable conclusions as to what its future will be.
In too many places in Barbados, I see deep soil agricultural land being turned into concrete, the soil, thousands of years old, moved away to God knows where, and for God knows what uses,…..almost certainly not agricultural. There is no future atonement for such sacrilege.
Water woes again in our area of St Joseph, no water since Friday evening, last Sunday no water all day, & the Sat’ before that etc etc……we were told yesterday that the pump at Bowmanston was the problem (only seems to happen at weekends mind) & the water would be back on last night, well got some this morning for 25 mins, no use phoning the ‘after hours representative’ to tell them its gone off again, cause no ones answering the phone.
Todays project? was pouring concrete for the base of a water tower to hold a water tank……..
Colin,
Your last two paragraphs say it all. It is mind-boggling that ‘we’ in Barbados have bought into this idea that we cannot supply much of our local food needs.
We have been told and have accepted that ‘development’ lies in tourism only and real estate development.
I agree with you, that real ‘sustainable’ development only comes with some fair degree of self-sufficiency.
But, we are told that we cannot be self-sufficient.
Who does that story suit?
Peace
There needs to be an immediate embargo on any lands being converted from agricultural use.
Secdonly, can anyone confirm whether there is a provision in law that allows ‘idle’ agricultrual land to be converted after five or seven years?
If this is so, it needs removal as soon as possible.
I have been told that there is such a provision and all it takes is to leave one’s land idle for the specificed time, for the change of use to be granted.
Hence, I seek clarification on the issue.
If this is true, it is wrong and a cynical loophole that must be closed immediately.
‘ Anonnoyed, ‘ How we sympathise with you,
but, some good years ago when we used to sail a 30 foot yacht between West Indian small Islands, we found, most homes had rain-water- catching tanks, and many homes did not have a mains supply,…. at all.
On the yacht, we slung up an old jib on the for’deck ( like you might sling up a hammock ), and placed a tube in its centre, and found how amazingly quickly, our 40 gallon tank below decks in the bow of the yacht, filled in a few minutes rain fall. Lovely clear clean water.
We don’t know why Barbadians fear to drink rainwater ? All you need do is strain it through a good filter….if you feel you must, and make sure mosquitos cannot get into your storage tank.
With the ever – expanding building boom, you’d better look into such a home system, fast.
Energy Facts
Today we found two very useful sites. One, is ‘Energy Facts ‘, giving six pages dealing with energy , its use, renewables, global warming, etc.
The other site is just called ‘ Energy Kid’s Page’. The ministry of Education should check it out. It is a really good site for young people. Will somebody speaking pure Bajan, call the ministry of education about it, please.
The Surreptitious Wresting of good land.
(Backup to Rumplestilskin 17 Feb 2008 )
On the east side of this cart road, full cane growing. On the West side where good cane always grew, the land is overgrown with cane gone wild and other saplings, weeds, vines, cow itch. This ‘now’ wild land, is waiting to be given the all clear for further sacrilege, as it lays with good width, along the top of a ravine with some measure of view.
OK, so people got to build somewhere. But this is deep soil, and so when conversion is allowed, the house lots will have cane fields across the track to their East. Or will those cane fields too,… be discredited, because of the fire hazard posed to the new homes that will be built down wind against them ?
Yet there are so many other areas in Barbados, with top soil of just a few inches, or none. Why are we destroying, for future and extended generations, the land that will have to feed them?
Only bout hey (hair)
How is that we in Barbados are up in arms over the wearing of a hairstyle i.e the young senator and the guys at SJPP? All yesterday on the call in programme people were in agreement that these young men should adhere to the rules and that this kind of behaviour is what leads to the social and moral decline in this country. I found this more than amusing, because if that is so how is that we had a PM who introduced us to not one but two children whom based on calculations were not from his wife, he further married his mistress and it was a grand televised affair. We had a Deputy PM who was accused of being a political vampire, we had politicians from both parties for years involved in corruption i.e kickbacks, millions in offshore bank accounts and the list goes on and on. Yet not one person called in, wrote or said that any of this leads to the social and moral decay of this country. We sit among ourselves discuss this, see the alleged details in articles such as pudding and souse, may hear about it in our calypsos but not one person is ever held accountable for their behaviour.
You know what message this sends to the young people….. cut your hair and adhere to the accepted norms of this society and get your education, then run for political office and do whatever you like because it is at this level that no body cares, steal, fornicate, cuss, beat up people who cares we are a christian society.
On the other hand if you go to the most corrupt land (or so we bajans say) the US wear your hair however, you like get your education but remember if you ever run for public office the slightest offense will be investigated and you will have to bear the consequences.
We bajans are a bunch of hypocrites. I am so tired of the older generation crying down the young people. There are so many cases of one man fathering numerous children in the same neighbourhood etc if AIDS was around back then we would not be here because our grandparents would be dead.
I hope that these adults go to sleep at night with a clear conscious when they realise that they do nothing to hold certain people accountable for their behaviour but yet want to stop persons from getting an education or performing a function because of a hairstyle.
A brief interesting eight pages on Qauntum Mechanics we can all understand.
Just Google up ‘Intro to Qauntum Mechanics’ and take your pick. The first site I chose was ‘Todd’s Qauntum Intro. Eight pages covering the most important things quantum mechanics can describe and classical physics cannot:
Discreteness of energy.
The wave-particle duality of light and matter.
Qauntum Tunneling.
The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.
Spin of a particle.
You will find the famous Schrodinger Equation, and Planck’s famous constant.
There are going to be a lot of people needed in atomic engineering. I hope Barbados students get into it too. We have to welcome the New World.
A Geothermal Steam vent in Barbados ????
Well yes there is, together with the smell of rotton eggs ( H2S ) that goes with geothermal steam. Don’t worry too much. If you can smell H2S it is not serious. It is when you can’t smell it, that it is dangerous.
But the steam potential in Barbados needs investigating,…now,….. in this day and age. And this vent has been with us here more than thirty years, we’re told, though nobody has made much fuss over it.
Geothermal steam driven turbines are used in many places in the world for electrical power, and any quick look at the subject on Google will verify this.
This correspodent, with a Trinidadian drilling contractor, drilled seven wells for geothermal steam in St Lucia, and found it, back in 1975, hence his very recent dismay at encountering an old but ignored vent,…..right here in Barbados.
The question should be asked, are we looking for alternative energies, or not ? Check out steam electrical generation in California, Italy, New Zealand, Iceland, Costa Rica,…. and Guadaloupe, if you want somewhere near to home.
Geothermal steam is used for electricity generation in many places in the world,….. It has never been put to use in St Lucia, for reasons that defy explanation.
Colin,
If a barely competent Management can make such excessive profits because the law protects them from competition, pray tell why they would even look at such alternatives?
Does the cost of oil affect them? NO! -it is passed directly on to customers….
Does efficiency affect them? NO! -they are guaranteed profits no matter how inefficient they are…
…of course they play games with ‘wind’ and have lots of nice talk…. but actions are the only sounds that matter…
Did anybody notice the 30 or so military aircraft that flew alongside our country around 8.30pm last nite? i just happened to be in the area and noticed a formation of planes which were very quiet, there were no flashing lights from these planes, just a constant red light. alot of military aircraft behave like this.
they came i would say about 5 miles off the coast from the north and as soon as they aproached gibbs they headed w.s.w, i believe they were either heading for a base close to south America in case problems had occured in south America, yet if you look on the internet you would reed articles that on friday they decided to go the diplomatic route, very strange, interesting story guys, anyone else seen this?
A letter appeared in today’s- hate to say it – Nation by a John R Taylor pertaining to land being bought up by foreigners and I must agree with him. So many writers have voiced their concerns to no avail but it is high time that Goverment adopt the Lands Act that the French islands adopted years ago and that is simply that no land can be purchased by non nationals even if they are French mainland by birth. They must be born on the repsective island in order to purchase land and it has worked especially in St Barths which basically would have been owned totally by foreigners if they Act had not been enacted. We could easily do the very same here but it would take a strong Goverment to do so. Is this Goverment strong enough to save what is left for our youth. Stop the golf courses and condos and let my sons have an opportunity to buy some of their island. I happen to live close to the Sandy Lane course and never have I seen more than 10 people using the course at any one time. Close to a hundred acres to be utilized by 10 people at any one time and all foreign. Time for this to end.
Rumboy don’t worry.
Todays Golf Courses are tomorrows cow pastures and vegetable farms.
What we really have to fight against is High Rise Apartment buildings for low income persons.
A High Rise building has high maintenance and operating costs. Elevators and Laundries eat up a lot of Electricity.
High Rise Buildings for the Rich and Famous would be better. I am talking about 10,000 sq. ft. Apartments,sorry Suites, at 10 t0 20 million dollars each.
They can afford the High maintenance costs.
Low and lower middle income housing should be no more than 2 to 3 stories high with Backyards and front Gardens.
It makes no sense for a single person to use up 5 acres of land in Barbados for 1 mansion and a lawn.
Hants says:
“It makes no sense for a single person to use up 5 acres of land in Barbados for one mansion and a lawn.”
There are parts of our small island e.g. Frere Pilgrim where exactly this absurdity is the rule.
No more than one residence on five acres allowed.
Not even a second building for members of your immediate family. But you are allowed to build stables for your polo ponies!
The man in the street will remain the man in the street, or if he is lucky, in congested NHA ghettos. But foreigners can become country squires in rural splendour.
“Another day in paradise!” as CBC’s Hoyt used to say.
Mad Bajan:
What you posted is very well put and accurate.
The pcitures that I saw of both the young Senator and the SMJ students showed well presented young men.
But then, as you say, maybe they should cut their hair, then go and do as they like otherwise.
That would be conforming to traditional bajan ‘behind closed doors’ practice.
I mean, as you say, how many previous Ministers did the following:
- had multi girlfriends, for example, possibly TV presenters, at the same time
- as you mentioned, children from many women
- alternative lifestyles, not wrong per se but could at least admint it rather than hiding it. Although the ‘behaviour’ within the either hetero or ‘alternative’ lifestyle should present some level of decorum
- any drug abuse in there? Maybe even treatment?
- Alcohol addiction?
- were diplomatic pouches always used as they should have been?
- Buddying-up with big chiefs of private sector companies in a major way – while some may consider it practical, I consider it to be a conflict of interest in that the whole would not be served, the interests of a few would take priority
There are many wrongs that must be righted. Must we accept the ‘weaknesses’ of our leaders or demand that leaders should by nature be strong?
Peace
Who has heard of Grandmaster Flash – Joseph Saddler born in Barbados and who would go on to become the first great hip hop DJ. In 2007 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the very first hip hop artist to recieve that honor. His first hip was ‘ Superrappin ‘ and his career would shine for decades. He was one of Sugar Hill Records first stars and had hits like ‘ the Message ‘.
Believe that and check out the MSNC web under entertainment. Go Baje.
How soon $150/barrel oil ?
With $110/barrel oil, the front page of one local newspaper reads ‘Tough choices for consumers’ . Then you turn the page and see the advert for the news cars, 2.0 liter and six cylinder 3.5 liter. Oh yes, the 3.5 liter has something called VCM technology, meaning you can shut down three of the cylinders. Well Really! Do we really need such high energy consumption and complication, at such cost ,… when you can take a bicycle and North/South the island in less than one hour ? Something is wrong with our thinking.
Alternative energy is going to get to us too late, mainly because the bigger countries are going to start having to turn to it, far faster than it can be built and installed. As the price of oil goes up, so will the price of building and installing all the new alternatives, together with everything else we import,…. including food .
Our main problem will be food and water. The reasons for this do not need to be laid out . We all know, in the back of our minds, just what these reasons are.
God bless the small farmers who are doing their best against many odds, to put agricultural land in shape for what is to come.
If what has been written here, gives you a chill down your back, then that is what it is supposed to do. The bird of time is on the wing and we have not yet reached the critical mass to kickstart getting serious about what we need to get done. Forgive me, for I’m still seeing implacable images of Hitler’s Germany, ….. once on England’s door step. .
A West Indian Peace Corpse for Africa ?
We’d be lucky to hear a nightingale singing in London’s Berkley Square, or anywhere else in England these days. But what joy it gives us to hear they are singing all over Africa, where they are much safer from the pollution and gridlocked traffic. No wonder they seem to want to stay in Africa’s warmth, her limitless wide spaces and aureate sunsets.
But oh woe is Africa otherwise,…. now seething in dreadful internal conflict, while we bury our heads,…. unheeding, implacable, inchoate ourselves, over her nightmare, starvation, and death.
Shouldn’t there become a West Indian Peace Corpse, like the American Peace Corpse, of young willing people, to go out and spread our own message.
We, who love our islands, have we nothing to spread like the Nightingale ? Have we no message of peace, pride of what we have accomplished through peaceful co-existence and co-operation, our inter-country trade, inter-country sport, pride of our whole region ?
So many of our youth, well educated, run aimless with lack of adventure, limited expansion of visions, their horizons dwarfed by small strips of land and retaining shores.
Could not our more adventuresome youth expand their visions, widely, in a Peace Corpse, and carry back the message of the progressive advantages of peace, and co-operation,…… back,…. back like the Nightingale,….. to Africa ?
Don’t West Indian Nations owe Africa,… that ?
**************
BFP say
My my Colin,
I thought your spelling mistake was witty, but then I saw that it was probably a genuine mistake… albeit a mistake that tells the truth.
Corps = military group
Corpse = dead human body
Of course, that should be CORPS (pronounced “CORE”).
Colin Beadon, I love the La La Land you’re living in! But get real. You think young Bajans would give up the bling, the wuk up, the ghetto blasters – sorry, I-Pods now – the drugs, the brand name clothes, the every-night-all-night fetes to help Africans? Don’t make me laugh. And by the way, I love the way you use the term “Peace Corpse”!! Takes me back to the days when the cadavers were imported into Barbados from Grenada.
In every nation, there are youth with vision. Otherwise, we live without progress !
Well thanks, everybody. I always said I could never spell, ‘Corpse, instead of Corps ‘ , and I could have said the mistake was intentional, which it certainly wasn’t, as pointed out by BFP.
In every nation, are those youth who seek and share worldly experience. We had better hope and pray so. There is not much else could help Africa, nor all the money in the world, either.
BFP you have competition. Owing gone so the Nation free up and can print anyting.
Read on.
CALL TO ACCOUNT
http://www.nationnews.com/story/291300402476556.php
Competition my foot. Just reporting the Auditor General. No real journalism or investigative reporting.
Where to Caricom Justice?
Barbados has made the Caribbean Court of Justice, based in T&T, the final court of appeal for this nation.
Meanwhile, the court system in T&T is facing severe challenges in the failure of witnesses to testify in critical criminal cases.
Quoting the Trinidad Express, since 2006 no less than thirty-three murder cases have collapsed due to the refusal of witnesses to testify.
Some of these cases involve drug and gang related violence.
It is evident that T&T has lost its control of the crime scenario, which has caused its Justice system to be severely challenged and sideswiped by vagabonds.
Yet, we in Barbados have placed our full confidence in this system as our own final Court.
From this, two questions are demanded.
Firstly, what are we in Barbados going to do to prevent similar or in some cases, the same vagabonds from destroying our own system of Justice.
Secondly, was the decision to put our final ourt in T&T a reasoned and justifiable decision?
Or was the action merely an attempt to force the CSME upon us, in placing critical institutions in T&T, thus making the status a fait accompli?
Whereto from here? Are we satisfied as to our path in the administration of justice? Or are we merely going forward on a whim and a prayer?
I suggest that our future direction in the administration of justice needs critical analysis, from the daily policing right up to our decision on our final Court.
As witnessed by the current events in both Jamaice and T&T, we cannot afford to make wrong decisions now.
Peace.
Gentlemen of BFP
I always wonder when I log on to this site why I am confronted with Island Life as a category, and an ancient submission of no current interest.
Surely it makes more sense to be greeted by a list of the most recent topics? This could possibly be supplemented with a notation of the number of comments received so that one can see at a glance what the current “hot issues” are.
What do you think of this suggestion? Is it readily workable?
*****************
BFP says,
Hi Deb
I don’t know what is happening… but it sounds like your browser is calling up an ancient cache image of an article you visited a long time ago. I suggest that you do two things… go into your cookies and clear any wordpress or Barbadosfreepress cookies, and also purge your cache to get rid of the old image of our website.
I don’t know too much about this and Clive is not around for a day or two. Can any of our readers suggest something?
R.
Thistle, Compadre,
We are given just one thing in the whole world that we can have complete control over, if we wish.
So we can elect to be happy, filled with the beauty of the world, hopeful that good will always prevail sooner or later. Or we can elect to be mistrusting, morose, terrified of the night, cynical !
At the moment I’m suffering the attrition caused by a bad spelling mistake, so self flagellation and austerities are my bread and water,… while I lick my wounds.
There are good, intelligent, willing and and patient youth amongst us, waiting for their queue to come on stage. They need our encouragement. No es verdad ?
Si, es verdad – quizas! Pero, donde estan?? If you can find them, then do encourage them.
Barbados dwindling acreages !
According to Dr Brathwaite, 25th March 2008 Advocate page 32, Barbados is losing between 750 and 1000 acres of arable land per year. This has been the trend over the years,… we have been told.
Our 166 square mile island, is equivalent to 106240 acres. Of that acreage, we have to subtract for all the roads, townships, villages, housing estate areas, woodland, ravines, steep sided hills and mounts, and of course playing greens, not forgetting golf and polo courses.
So the real questions are: How much arable acreage does Barbados really have. ? And given the size of the growing population, and the possibility of flyovers, water parks, more hotels, almost certainly more housing estates, how much land for growing food, and wood, and raising live stock,… do we need ?
In light of the ever – growing energy crisis, which no amount of alternatives yet found,…. can possibly cope with; if we ‘ain’t dreadfully careful, people in dis small island ‘roun’ hyar,…. goin’t get,…… quantum hungry.
Lastly, what would be the use of blaming anybody then, no matter how thin and bitter our children become ?
It is with such a heavy heart that I listened to the comments made by a disabled woman on the radiostation who was unable to use the bathroom due to the unavailability of bathrooms with wheelchair access at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital!!! Can you imagine, in this day and age with the millions of dollars wasted on that Hospital that one of our very own should have to endure such an indignity? Have we no shame? When you listen to utter despair of this woman it is impossible not to want to hold the callous ministers that squandered millions of tax payers dollars in self-serving projects own and becoming “instant millionaires” to justice. They should all be jailed in my view. What have we become that the most vulnerable in our societies have become forgotten?
When was the hospital built?
When was the asma bay put in?
Has the hospital had problems throughout it’s life span?
Are there major structural problems with the hospital that no one is talking about?
Where is the consulting engineers report??
Has this new GOB gotten that report?
To light our homes and keep fit doing it.
The most important use of electricity to any home, is to give light. This can be done very simply with out resort to the power supply. An old bicycle and an alternator from and old car, or a motor used to drive a washing machine, or an electric fan motor from a car. You build a frame to keep the back wheel of a cycle off the ground, and drive a generator from it by pedling. If it is a twelve speed bike, better still. If you have two or three strong children, better again. You take turns on the machine over an hour or more, to charge up your battery, or batteries.
If you can save 6 amps in a twelve volt battery, you can run two 12 volt, point five amp, florecent lights for five hours, easily. You can run a car 12 volt fan, and a 12 volt radio, and a 12 volt TV. You may have to do some more pedling, if you see the voltage start falling below 12 volts. And it would be even better if you have an ammeter rigged up to tell you what you are saving when pedling.
There are two good websites about all this, and we’re sure there are Barbadians who want to work on such things.
Check :www.stewardwood.org/resources/DIYcyclepower and also http://www.econvergence.net/electro . The Pedal-watt- stationary bicyle generator. And you will see how simple it is.
So there is another way besides expensive wind and solar chargers, to light our homes. But, you just have to keep fit by storing the battery power first, and the family can all help that.
The two sites you will find, most enlightening.
BFP. Don’t tell me that every time I submit a post, even if it is a one-liner; it is being placed under moderation. I can freely say that you have me on full time moderation. Oh how ‘free’ you thought you were.
What is blogging.
Blogging is the freest means of communicating under the cloak of anonymity. The person should be able to vent feelings providing he/she refrain from vile language, attacks or bold face lies that cannot be substantiated. I must say that managing blogs can be hectic especially when you have to stop and delete the aforementioned threats, but I can sense in some of your moderators, a desire to moderate or even ban certain commenters based on the line of arguments and debate within their comments. Yes, you have the ultimate responsibility to make any decisions you deemed is in your personal interest, but you can then show your partisan behaviour when certain commenters are not singing your tune. I am a leader, not a follower and you will see my debating pattern comes from my heart. I prefer not to openly use derogative remarks to gain points on my attacker; but to engage in a debate using research as my main plank. I don’t believe in using such terms like “I have been informed”; “a birdie told me”; “I hear someone states..” and the list goes on.
You are criticizing the Hon. David Thompson of failing to implement ITAL, but here you are practicing the same game. Until you put your house in order, don’t criticize the DLP about ITAL.
On a broader note, it seems that your support lies in the DLP, that’s your choice and democratic rights; but you should not dismiss someone who might neither be Bees or Dees, but prefer to analyse and criticise what he sees wrong. That is the type of person I am, bold, realistic, and, to the point individual. You took away someone’s democratic right because this is your blog. Enjoy.
God ! Let there remain enough arable land in Barbados !
This is an extended investigation to our last writing on the subject of arable land. Please bare with us these further iniquities.
‘ A minimum of zero point one seven (0.17) acres of land is enough to sustain one ( 1 ) person on a largely vegetarian diet without the intense use of fertilizers and pest control .’ ( A 200 X 37.025 square foot lot, each ! )
43560 sq ft to one acre. Check me out !
The population of Barbados was (as of July 2006 ) 290,000 souls. So, with the island holding a capacity of 106,240 acres in total, it might seem we are well covered to survive by growing our own food,… if we have to. But then there is a thorny glitch in the equation.
We have to determine just how much of that 106240 acres is arable, and how much is doing other things like being covered in concrete and roads, standing as steep hillsides, ravines, or towns, villages, car parks, housing estates, how much is bereft of top soil etc. We don’t really have to calculate golf courses, polo fields and the National stadium, as their soil can be ploughed over, if necessary, ( as a fellow bloggist pointed out).
Still, that would be a horrifying aspect for many, but better to live than starve, if such a dilemma comes our way. ) And there are several such dilemmas circling around out there, no doubt! Life, by its very nature, thrives on such dilemma-causing strife. It keeps us on our toes, as a detriment to complacency.
Let’s say, of the 106,240 acres, we end up with 70,000. So 70,000 acres, arable, good quality, water within reach like in Woodbourne valley (where they are busy turning deep lush topsoil into real estate, as though energy and something to eat, will never be a problem ), and you can easily do the figures by multiplying 70,000 by 5.88, ( five point eight eight persons per acre ), which will give you the quantity of souls our island could sustain if 70,000 arable acres of land,….. still exists ?
But check the figures out at 50,000 acres instead, with a 290 thousand population, and see if we should not jump to a stringent abstinence in the pursuit of nightly joy and happiness, in endeavouring (to use an old phase pertaining to ), ‘ what makes the world go round ‘.
On the other hand, we have plenty of sand on our beaches, and you know what that is useful for, except you get sand in your eyes, nose and ears, and probably your lungs too. So we hope non of us would resort to an ostrich-like evasive action in defence of what is actually and undoubtedly,
a finite morsel of arable land left. 50,000 acres, won’t feed the population of this island if we can no longer afford to import food.,…. And that is that!
Besides, of the 50,000 acres, talk is, ‘Ten thousand of that is to go under cotton’, much of which blows around the island, unpicked. Go to any cotton field and see for yourself. Much of the fluffy white cotton gets ploughed back in the end.
We could tell you the reasons for that, but won’t! As regards the ever-dwindling acreage problem, we just wish to hell people could prove to us,…. we’re wrong. You amigos, ‘compinches’ and fellow bloggist, please keep a lookout on BFP, and see if anybody does.
The data: .17 acre per person, comes from Resource Experts and the site http://everything2.com/title/overpopulation. Nine pages of interesting gen.
Colin,
Point taken. While your comparison of productive capacity to polupation is valid, I would suggest that our critical issue at this time, the thing that we can impact by immediate actions, is productive capacity.
Hence, your reference to the plowing of topsil in Woodbourne Valley for real estate development, represents a growing problem that can only be solved by a long awaited and only recently promised legislation on Land Ownership and Use Policy.
Such legislation is critical for the sensible use of our limited land resource.
If we are able to keep the current land that is in agriculture in that state by legislation and limitiations on use, then we shall not have a problem going forward.
However, I mentioned before on this site that my understanding is that one can leave agricultural land out of use for 7 years and then apply for a change of use permission, according to current legislation.
I cannot remember seeing a reply as to whether this is indeed correct.
If this is correct, then it needs to be changed immediately, as it is purely a way around the land planning framework, for any developer to use.
There is so much rubbly land around that good agrictural land needs to be kept as such, especially as the world conflict currently seems to be increasing and thus there may be a crisis at any time.
As it is, with the oil price ever increasing, the cost of importing food is just going to increase with the transport cost increasing.
We must grow more local food.
Peace.
NBC has reported that the compound of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints in Texas has been raided and 46 women and 137 children removed.
This was after an alleged report by a 16 year old of alleged abuse.
It is also alleged that the girl had a baby at 15 years old.
The authorities are still in the compound looking for the girl.
Incidentally, according to MSN, in November 2007 the sect leader was convicted on two counts of being an accomplice in rape, for his role in arranging a marriage between a 14 year old girl and her cousin.
What implications does this have for the presence of the same institution in Barbados, I believe it was located in Rendezvous?
Is it still here?
The stirrings of the hungry poor are spreading rapidly.
How long before we have the BDF outside Purity, Brydens etc.?
Forget global warming, feed the people.
If the Anthropomorphic Global Warming theory is indeed true (which I doubt), I prefer to be 1 degree warmer, than starving.
I strongly suspect most Bajans would agree.
Read what The Christian Science Monitor reports:
” Americans may fret that Wheat Thins cost 15 percent more than a year ago but in poor nations, such price hikes aren’t taken lightly. In Ivory Coast last week, women rioted against higher food costs, leaving one person dead.
In Haiti, four people were killed in protests last week over a 50 percent rise in the cost of food staples in the past year. From Egypt to Vietnam, price rises of 40 percent or more for rice, wheat, and corn are stirring unrest and forcing governments to take drastic steps, such as blocking grain exports and arresting farmers who hoard surpluses.
The UN International Fund for Agriculture predicts food riots will become common on the world scene for at least a year. The World Bank says 33 countries face unrest from higher prices in both food and energy.
Even in grain-rich America, wholesale food prices are rising at a rate not seen in 27 years. The most acute “ag-flation,” however, is in Asia and Africa, where food costs take up a higher proportion of family income. And the face of hunger is now seen more in cities as a historic shift takes place with more than half of the world’s population soon to be living in or near urban areas.
The food price hikes may not be temporary, according to the UN World Food Program, which sees long-lasting causes, such as spreading deserts and more demand for grain-fed meat. The WFP itself, which feeds about 73 million of the most destitute people, warns its rich donor nations that it will require more money for some time to come. Its latest need: $500 million more by May 1.
The food price crisis has created a welcome stir about government policy. Last week, World Bank President Robert Zoellick called for increased agricultural production in poorer nations while warning rich countries not to set up more trade protection and subsidies for farmers. “This economic isolationism signals a defeatism that will reap losses, not the gains, of globalization,” he said.
Indeed, a government’s attempt to control food markets, either for farmers or for urban dwellers, often creates the kind of distortions that contribute to higher prices. One of the worst examples is a rush by Europe and the US to devote more farmland to growing biofuels – a dubious action to curb greenhouse gases. In 2008, about 18 percent of grain in the US will go to make ethanol and, according to the Earth Policy Institute, such production over the past two years could have fed nearly 250 million people.
UN officials are split over their high priority given to biofuels in the fight against climate change, with Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon now suggesting a review of that policy. But international bodies also need to review reduced investment in agricultural productivity. A second “green revolution” from scientific research, like that seen during the 1960s, could transform farming once again.
In Asia, where two-thirds of the poor live, growth in farm productivity is down to 1 percent a year compared with 2.5 percent two decades ago. More money needs to go toward research in creating new strains of grain and toward better irrigation. Too many nations are rushing to industrialize and urbanize at the expense of farmers.
Food riots signal the need to rethink global stability and the critical role of those who till the land and feed us all. “
Barbadians are lucky that, like the legendary dromedary (rhymes better than “camel”) the great majority have a “hump” to live off during coming hard times. Right below their chins.
As a nation we are too darned FAT.
Cutting down on our overeating can only do us good as a nation.
But that is n0 consolation to the millions who will really suffer deprivation. Diverting wheat to corn to manufacture ethanol to reduce the oil import bill a smidgen was and is madness.
BFP-
Why the stony silence about all those Stranded West Africans still enjoying our scenery?
Their “plight” gets mentioned on the news quite often, and the heroic efforts being made to repatriate them, yet not a peep from you.
Surely a fiasco like this is the stuff that blogs are made of?
*****************
BFP says,
Hi there… Yup, we’ve had a story ready to go for some time but things keep getting in front of it.
“Efforts to repatriate?” … hey… love your humour!
Diversion Pandora;
Post on the Ghana thread.
The coming world food shortage may take precedence over a couple of hundred over-ambitious West Africans.
Until we wake up, this food shortage thing will sneak up anawares, and bite us fatally in the botsy.
No matter how many Ghanaese we have as visitors (or not) we will be unable to feed ourselves
come the crunch.
Your politicians dare not tell you, it is left to the blogs.
If you’re interested in the World Food Crisis check this link out.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7276971.stm
STRANDED WEST AFRIKANS VICTIMS OF HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES
Tuesday morning, April 7th 2008,a press conference was held at the Israel Lovell Foundation, My Lord’s Hill, to plead the case for more than 96 West Afrikans stranded in Barbados since February 15th 2008, when their chartered flight did not return to collect them.
The men and women had come originally to Barbados; some wanting to experience the cultural delights of the Trinidad carnival and others had other missions of trade, youth development conferences and just the opportunity to visit family and friends.
It is now more than two months that they are waiting for some resolution to the issue of return home. Most are still fending for themselves; paying rent or being supported by Barbadian families. Some members of the group however are struggling and not eating adequately and are being threatened with eviction. To this end the press conference was held to highlight their need for assistance.
However, the government of Barbados seemed to have a different idea as to why the West Afrikans were here and have chosen to criminalize the stranded with the arrest and interment at the military base Paragon in Christ Church, of 30 people, who reported to immigration as requested Tuesday morning at 10 am. Nothing has been heard from them since, their possessions have not been collected, and there is still no word as to their status.
A local Pan Afrikan organization, the Global Afrikan Congress, has been offering support to some individuals throughout their stay and are outraged at the treatment of these human beings, who have committed no offenses worthy of being treated in this manner. When a delegation, including legal representation, asked to see the people held at Parragon, they were refused access.
It is understandable that the government, with a view to providing a plane for them to return home, would want to have all those in need in a central location, however it is not acceptable that these people be kept against their will. They should be free to come and go. Those who are comfortable with family and friends should be allowed to stay there until news of the planes departure is known.
The lack of transparency and sensitivity by some of the newly elected ministers to this issue is of grave concern to this citizen of Barbados. Even if these people were victims of human trafficking as claimed the United Nations, to which Barbados is a signatory, is explicit on the treatment of victims of it and imprisonment, without recourse to access and support, is a violation of their human rights.
I urge all right thinking people of the world to make their displeasure and disgust at this situation be known, and the governments’ orders to silence the press on this issues needs to be counteracted.
The West Afrikans who are stranded here, even if they were victims of or willing participants in, the search for a better life, still deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. The fact that many who came are well established business people, journalists, students with families and wealth in their own country, would not choose Barbados, an island, as place to try and escape from. They’re not stupid.
There are members of the stranded who have visas to other countries and money to get themselves there and back home, however immigration is refusing to stamp their passports with the extensions needed (after the initial two week visit expired), so they can travel onwards legitimately. One brother had a visa and ticket for Cuba and was refused exit from Barbados. His USD$850 is down the drain.
Another sister returned from Trinidad after the initial flight was due to have left, and has been held, for 4 weeks with no contact with her family or friends, a rumor has spread that she had been raped. There are over 50 West Afrikan people in Trinidad who are now afraid to return to Barbados because of this situation. Some of these people have lost jobs back in Afrika and missing their children’s birthdays and life. Some have become sick on this slave diet of rice, which they are not accustomed to eating. Another sister had complications with her pregnancy and so much begging had to be done so she could get medical treatment.
If this had been a plane load of white people stranded, we know The government, BTA, any other bandwagon jumper would be bending over backwards to assist with hotel accommodation, tours etc, until a flight could be procured for them, and you know they would not be here no damn two months later.
If Barbados does not grant these people extensions and legalize their status here, it will be impossible for some of them to ever travel again, with an overstay stamp in their passport. It is not their fault that they became stranded. I have travelled to Afrika, Ghana in particular on many occasions and I can say without a doubt that if this situation was reversed they would never treat us in this manner. From the richest to the poorest, there is the upmost respect for us visitors, regardless of your colour or origin.
So come on people stand up and shout outrage at this issue, and use whatever means you have to publicize this situation, so that we can let our brothers and sisters remain free.
Even whilst the replica slave ship “Amistad”, is being ‘celebrated’ in these shores, we are not learning from our history?
UMOJA
A friend sent me this summary of the internet and libel law, just to clarify what is apparently the current status (but, do not take as gospel, check with your lawyer if in doubt):
The law of defamation does apply to the Internet, although it is harder to apply for various reasons.
First, you have the difficulty of probably having to tracking down the real identity of an anonymous blogger, which just became more difficult, legally.
Then you must make sure the law where you can get the case heard is amenable to the claim. Then you have to decide if you want the hassle of a court case.
The following questions will help you decide what your best options are: What is Libel? I Believe I Have Been Libeled Online, What Should I Do Next? Can I Sue a Blog? What Evidence Do I Need to Sue? What Are the Defenses to Internet Libel? Are There Better Options Than Suing?
With a new blog being created every second and those admitting they visit a blog daily in the tens of millions in the U.S., and undoubtedly in the hundreds of millions worldwide, of course there are bound to be a few problems.
This article addresses the question of what a person should do when the worst-case scenario materializes – that of being falsely accused of some bad act and the false claim getting spread across the Internet.
A few basic facts will illuminate libel. First, libel is the written form of the law of defamation, so a false comments about someone, typed and posted on a blog, would be an example. But bear in mind, when dealing with the Internet, that with the modern trend towards making videos, a person can also easily be defamed by Internet slander, which is spoken defamation.
Generally, defamation is the publication, or spreading of a false fact, regarding another, without privilege, through carelessness or malice, harming the subject.
To prove Internet libel, you need, 1) a publication to at least another person outside the subject; 2) a false fact; 3) understood as [a] being of and about plaintiff; and [b] harming the plaintiff’s reputation. 4) For a “public figure,” actual malice necessary.
To successfully sue for Internet Libel, these elements must be proved.
I Believe I Have Been Libeled Online, What Should I Do Next?
This is an extremely fact dependent question. A number of issues need to be addressed by you or your legal counsel, if one has been retained. The first is to put aside feelings of being wronged, and look at the facts of the purported defamation.
Asking a friend to help pick through the issue might be a good idea, if a lawyer has not been consulted.
Questions to ask: Are you a “Public Figure”? Does the statement violate one of the classic four slander per se categories (regarding false claims about professional reputation, loathsome diseases, unchastity, or crimes of moral turpitude.)?
What is the exact statement you feel is libelous, and does the statement violate the previously listed definition of defamation? Is it portrayed as a fact, or opinion? Are you sure it is libel & not simply an insult? Where is the site hosted, and does the location have a law to help you? Is the poster known, or anonymous?
Can I Sue a Blog?
The question of whether a blog can be sued has several answers. First, the courts have consistently ruled that blog owners are held harmless, even when their blogs contain libelous material. In the recent Pennsylvania case “DiMeo v. Max,” May 2006, the court ruled that the pre-emption clause of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act protects blog owners from defamation.
But, a person who posts upon a blog is fair game for a lawsuit, should they commit clear defamation of a private person.
What Evidence Do I Need to Sue?
Many of those who attack others, online, do so anonymously, which goes without saying, since it reduces the risk of any retribution. The standard for discovering the identity of an anonymous online writer has recently changed. Previously, all a person needed to find who anonymously posted disputed information, was for the plaintiff to convince the court they were operating in “Good Faith.”
But the court realized this low threshold was being abused by persons who were simply trying to find the identity of their secret critics so they could intimidate them into removing the material, without any showing that the posted claims were false.
But this Good Faith standard changed in a recent key case, “John Doe Number 1 v. John Cahill,” in October 2006, decided for the defendant at the Delaware Supreme Court. The court voided the low level of proof Good Faith standard and also said it was consciously skipping a mid-level standard to embrace the most exacting level of initial proof, the Summary Judgment standard.
Now, plaintiffs must pass the Summary Judgment rule, meaning that they must prove to the court that they have the evidence that would stand up for a court case deciding the matter of online defamation.
This means the evidence will be shown to like pass the previously mentioned four-part definition of defamation, and includes a demand for presentation of all supposedly libelous quotes.
Beyond this, the plaintiff must signal their intention to go to court by making a good-faith effort to contact the person & let them know their intention of suing. For a blog, this would probably be satisfied by posting a statement to that effect in the very same blog space where the harm occurred.
Then, when the court contacts the blog to turn over the accused blogger’s IP address, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) for the accused must alert him or her of the request, so they can decide if they want to try to block the release of their
identity.
What Are the Defenses to Internet Libel?
There are six potential defenses of Internet libel:
1. Truth;
2. Fair comments on a matter of public interest, relegated to “opinion,” not false facts.
3. Privilege. Privilege may be absolute or conditional.
4. Consent.
5. Innocent dissemination.
6. Plaintiff’s previous poor reputation.
That is it.
Why was the person in the picture at the top of this article seen dressed exactly the same way………around 12 :35 am this morning in the Coleridge Street area ?
He’s speaking about the picture of Sir David Simmons.
………………………………………………………………………………….
BFP, you are constantly showing serious double standards. Few days ago, commenters and yourself were up in arms with the Carlos Chase issue regarding disrespect to others, but here, we are seeing this DLP operative, Jerome Hinds who constantly use derogative behaviour to past and present BLP officials. The blogging community must disassociate themselves from this sort of official bashing. Remember, the gentleman has been designated the title “Sir” and should be respected as such.
I must say that we scarcely see commenters using such insulting demeanour to members of this administration.
I made this statement already and I am going to reiterate once again. Since confirming that you are an advisor for the Ministry of Trade and you are getting on with such undiplomatic conduct, Lord help this Nation. To me, it looks as though BFP rally around certain political bashers and if a commenter make any adversed comment about this administration, presto! We will hear about banning and moderations. Come on, let’s have a level playing field.
I know that BFP will remain silent on this matter, but what the heck, this is blogging.
*******************
BFP says,
You said ” Since confirming that you are an advisor for the Ministry of Trade and you are getting on with such undiplomatic conduct, Lord help this Nation. ”
What the Hell do you mean? That we, BFP, are part of the government? Are you on drugs?
Ah. I see ‘Wild West George B’ now says that Iran is the biggest threat ‘this century’ (all eight years of it) to the USA apart from Al Queada.
What a load of trosh.
Funny that this comes on the election build up. I guess ‘we needs a diversion’.
I would think that the drug usage and smuggling around and into the USA poses the biggest threat, possibly even bigger than Al Queada.
Imagine all of the monies ‘misspent’ and lives, including American lives, wasted on drugs.
The productivity, the violence and the usage of the health services as a result of the illegal drugs?
That is the real and current threat!
But no, I guess that is considered to be an ‘inner-city and ghetto problem’.
This way, a diversion is created and oil goes to $200 a barrel.
Ho hum….
Any doubt now that the ‘great manipulation’ is underway?!
Let us just hope that things are held at bay until the democrats win and can restore reason.
What the Hell do you mean? That we, BFP, are part of the government? Are you on drugs?
………………………………………………………………………………….
First of all, let me state that I never or has no intention to use drugs. It seems that you are the person that is on drugs since the mentioned quote was not yours, but Jerome Hinds who I stated is a DLP operative.
Here again, you are fast on the draw with a gun without bullets.
The sudden leap in diesel and gasoline prices, should save accidents and lives, provided we drive everything, cars, suv, buses, trucks, much slower.
Another way to save on the fuels, is stay way back behind the vehicle in front of you, so you don’t keep having to apply brakes. In other words, stop tailgating .
You consume more gas if have to keep jamming on your brakes to save you from ramming the car in front. You are not going to get anywhere faster by tail- except to the hospital or the morgue. You can tell bad drivers by how often they have to touch their brakes. So it is touch brakes, then the x to speed up again, then touch brakes, then x to speed up again. See how it goes ?
Good drivers go at a speed to suit the road and the traffic. They burn less brake clutches, brake pads and gas, and don’t get into accidents too easily.
Good drivers have a much better and safer view of the road ahead, because they are not tail-gated behind the car, bus, or truck ahead of them.
If you are not a good driver, start staying much further back, and you will see how much more of the road you can see. It will pay dividends, keep you out of accidents and going to the gas station so often.
All the unwanted SUVs could be sold to Venezuela where such transport is much used on super highways going for hundreds of miles, hacinedas and huge oilfield districts. The only problem, 0ur SUVs here in Barbados, are mostly right hand drive.
Possibly Trinidad may want some, if they can find any more room on their roads. Both Trinidad and Venezuela, still have very cheap energy costs.
well, well, well. d police en investigate d police so d gangstas uh mean d police get find not guilty. what a ting!!!!!! dat is Justice in Bim. what a ting!!!!!!!
Well said Colin, a lot of people do not realise (don’t know why not) that speed = fuel usage.
Secondly, I see ‘joke of jokes’ that former ‘Greenland Fiasco’ Minister is today receiving a Champion of the Earth Award from the UN!!!
What a joke! The only one here who deserves this (apart from Colin Hutson who is now deceased -could we not have had one in his memory?) is
SIR Richard Goddard!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tek Dah!
Oh Apologies, also the Professor who designed and built the Solar Car and the (I believe deceased) Professor who built a house fully environmentally friendly.
The fifth and THAT IS IT is possibly James Husbands whose company pioneered Solar Heating.
Funny how a certain type of people like to rewrite history and truth to suit their own ends.
Usually it is the bureaucratic, self glory types.
By the way. For all those reading who do not live in Barbados or have not visited.
The Environmental Activist (and yes, farmer) Richard Goddard is a true…
Bajan Hero!
Rumplestilskin,
you may find it unpalatable but one of the major actors in the Solar Dynamics story in its early days was Canon Andrew Hatch (of Windows-to-the-Sea fame) along with Mr James Husbands.
The solar car (bus) was designed by Mr William Hinds formerly of UWI (not a professor however) and now with the Ministry of Energy. He is also responsible for the exhibition solar house in Queen’s Park. He has been an untiring activist for the development of alternative energy for nearly thirty years!
Professor Oliver Headly (deceased) was a major proponent in the development of solar energy. He had received many awards from outside the Caribbean for his work. He recieved either the Gold Crown of Merit or the Companion of Honour for his work.
Finally I agree with your sentiments regarding Mr Colin Hudson. I wish to suggest that the Government name a national award after him for work in the area of sustainable development, alternative energy and environmental protection and enhancement. It can be called the Hudson Medal.
Citizen:
I think your suggestion on Colin Hudson is welcome and warranted.
Having said that, he probably does not fit the ‘mould’ and did not have any political affiliation, so nothing will be done.
Makes a joke of all recognition and honours.
But, in reality I am sure that his recognition, in his own heart and in the way of karma, was and is worth far more than any ‘decreed’ honour that can be bestowed.
Still, it would be ‘nice’ and indicate some level of understanding on the part of authorities.
But, that may be just too much to expect from some.
We hope everybody in Barbados is watching world News. 100 million people are short of food. Oil has hit $120 US per barrel. The main food producing nations use huge volumes of petrolium products to enable them to produce products in the volumes they do.
Huge volumes of steadily rising petrolium products costs, are also used to move the produce by air, sea and land. The only way we can get away from getting caught up in this bind, is by producing the produce ourselves.
Every un-used plot of land, should be made evailable to those who would plant produce, fuit trees, or raise livestock . We can, and must beat this serious threat to our survival.
Those who dictate local conditions must stop using such placitudes as ‘Should, ought to, really must’ etc.
If we want to survive, what we must do now , is fast becoming,…. Imperative.
Instead, we all live on like happy summer-singing crickets, not believing in the austerity of long dread winters, or that ships and aircraft ladden with endless food, will ever stop guilding our shores.
Pues, lo que sera, sera !!!!
Different subject.
Does anyone know what legal rights a Barbadian has to marry a foreigner ?
I am told that a foreign spouse has to apply and pay for a work permit – that you have to apply every 6 months for permission to stay here and that it is not automatically granted – that you have to be married for a number of years (five?) before you are granted resident status – that you cannot study because you are not a resident – that you cannot apply for a student visa in order to study because you have to live outside the country to get a student visa – if this is true it would appear that Barbadians do not have equal rights. Some Barbadians are more equal than others.
I am sorry if this is not the forum to ask these questions – but it seems that there must be some misunderstandings – this surely cannot be accurate.
Liz,
There does not seem to be any rules to what we broach on BFP, thank God, provided we broach what we write with sincerity. I hope somebody can answer your question for you.
Liz any adult Barbadian has a right to marry any foreigner. However marrying a Barbadian does not necessarily grant the foreign spouse the right to work or to become a permanent resident. The foreign spouse has to EARN the right to remain by being law abiding and by not becoming a public charge. Which in effect means that your Barbadian spouse has to love you enough to be prepared to support you for a while. Marriage is one thing. Work and the right to remain permanently are separate and different things. After 5 years of showing themselves law abiding, and the marriage solid, then the foreign spouse will have earned the right to apply for permanent residence, and a few years later the right to apply to become a citizen. The Barbados government quite rightly does not treat residence or citizenship lightly. Most Barbadians believe that these laws are fair and reasonable. A lot of people want to move to Barbados Liz. Most Barbadians are not opposed to immigration, but they want to ensure that potential “new Barbadians” are good decent law abiding people. That’s all. No hard feelings. And you can apply for a student’s visa from inside of Barbados, but your new spouse must be prepared to pay for your schooling. That may well strengthen the marriage. No taking out of the tax pot Liz until you have put something significant in. Most countries have very similar rules.
Thank you Colin and J for responding so clearly. I have no problem with any of what you have said except that my friend, who has been married for 18 months, to a Barbadian, applied to go to BIMAP and was told that she could not attend because she is not a resident of Barbados. She asked if she could get a student visa and was told that you cannot get a student visa unless you are resident overseas. She can work if she gets a work permit – that is not a problem either – she is in the fortunate position of not having to work but she has to get permission to remain in Barbados every 6 months by going to immigration and queuing for as long as it takes and then she gets a stamp in her passport which allows her to remain here for possibly 6 months but can be less. I am wondering if she is being victimised surely the marriage must give the right to remain for longer than 6 months with her spouse in Barbados, even if it does not automatically give permanent residence.
Where does a Barbadian’s constitutional right to marry and live with their spouse begin and/or end?
Thanks for your help.
Collecting Rainfall is well worth it.
A roof 15 by 20 feet= 300 square feet. Divide that by 12, and we then know how many cubic feet of water we will get from one inch of fallen rain. 300/12= 25. Multiply 25 by 7.5 gives us 187.5 US gallons of rainwater. An oil drum will take 42 gallons, so we would need almost five oil drums to hold one inch of rainfall off our 15ft by 20ft roof.
Since Barbados averages over 50 inches of rainfall a year, then that 15 by 20 roof, can catch us at least 9000 gallons a year, quite enough water to provide one person with 24 gallons a day.
Rainwater quality always exceeds the quality of ground, stream or lake water, except in highly industrialized areas (which Barbados is not ) . We breath the air, and provided we use filters, we can drink the water which falls through that same air we breath. It is done everywhere else in the world, including in the Grenadines to our West.
Topping up with Rainwater has kept locally made car batteries going over fours years. That is how pure the rainwater is. A 200 mesh screen where the water goes into your tank, will screen out roof debris. Place another filter before your tap at the lower end of the tank. Make sure tanks or drums are properly closed, to stop mosquitoes breeding in them. It is simple to design a ‘dump’ that will dump the first rain so as to get rid of any dust from the roof, before the rain starts to fill your tanks.
Google has some good sites on Rainwater. Check: Rainwater.org/rainwater
You can’t beat rainwater for growing vegetables, flowers, trees. If you run a filter and then ½ gallon hour, twelve inch spaced drip line from your tanks, even in low rainfall times, you could easily feed 100 feet of bed from such a small roof. Now work out how much you can get off your roof. It might greatly surprise you. ‘Yeh, ya gotta get guttering’.
The roof water equation, for those interested in not being without water.
L= the lenght of the roof, taken at ground level.
W= Width of the roof taken at ground level. It does not matter if the roof is flat, high peeked, or like a shed, provided you have guttering where the rain runs off. Measuring the ground area, will give you the correct answer.
( L X W/12 ) X 7.5 = US gallons per inch of rainfall off you roof. Probably a true mathametician, could simplify that equation, but you still need a rainfall gauge to let you know when you’ve had an inch of rain, if you want to be meticulous. Check irrigation companies for rain gauges, or let local weather station tell you how much fell. Take a look at the site: Rainwater.org/rainwater. It is well worth it.
Liz, please see the following linkhttp://www.barbados.gov.bb/bdsconst_chpt2.htm#section6
this indicates entitlement to citizenship – the constitution implies no waiting period – be advised the constitution was amended to reflect the rights of both men and women.
As for BIMAP, there should be no residency requirement to attend BIMAP and there should be no student visa requirement if you are a CARICOM national.
I suggest that your friend and their spouse seek the assistance of an attorney at law, if they find that they are not getting the answers they require.
The rules about progressing to residency and citizenship in the Immigration Act having no bearing on rights which are guaranteed by the constitution which is ultimately the supreme law.
Furthermore Liz your friend should not need to get 6 month extensions to stay in Barbados – she is entitled to citizenship – and automatically so – nor should she require a work permit. This is just absolutely ludicrous on the part of the Immigration authorities.
On Military Parades, Earthquakes and Typhoons.
We see Russia has taken the step back again, into parades of its military might . This is a bad sign because Russia now lumps herself back with North Vietnam, North Korea, Burma, China, and quite a few lesser and smaller countries under Communism or military dictatorship, which, anyhow you look at it, is one and the same thing. That is, Communistic countries, are really, dictatorships in disguise,…. and nothing more or less !
The military parades are designed to show up the suggested military might of such countries who persist in participating in them. But to put it as truthfully as one can, the parades actually just show up the deep feelings of insecurity of those in actual power, and are much more a warning to their own populations, not to try anything out of hand, like an insurgency for freedom.
The rest of the civilized world, just takes military parades as childish, and no longer resorts to such foolishness. However you look at such parades today, they really are arcane, and near a century out of date, and tell us much more about the mentality, aims, and the aspirations of the leaders of those countries, than those leaders might care to outright admit.
But now we have two of those countries in real hell, one with a ‘dread’ earthquake, the other destroyed by a monster typhoon. And to what part of the world will they now cry help ?
It is only the free and democratic world, who they disdain,…. can really help them now !
This is not to say we don’t share their profound grief, but we just wish they’d grow up, and stop playing toy soldiers. The free world wants to continue being free, and their continual posturing does not help us want to help them in their time of misery. One wonders, and is doubtful, would they, and could they, have done the same for us in such circumstances?
The answer is: Possibly, if they had not spent so much on the impediments of war.
Ah. What has Mr.McCain now stated?
That the ‘war in Iraq’ will be won by 2013?
With the time elapsed and the
current ‘confrontations’ still well entrenched, may we ask humbly, does Mr. McCain have a crystal ball that he now suddenly sees so accurately into four years hence?
Or would this statement merely be a case of the candidate blustering on a topic to give false assurances to simpleton voters?
Can anyone deny that such an assertion is a false one? Trhough what science or indeed magic, can the candidate so precisely predict an outcome, especially in such turbulent times, that could herald more changes during these same four years of which he speaks?
Are the voters and indeed are we all in the world so gullible as to take such a statement with any credence?
It is amazing that there are many instances of candidiates taking the voting public as moronic, as exhibited by utterances such as this.
Maybe they live by the words of P.T.Barnum, that there ‘is a fool born every day’ (or was it minute, it matters not).
Peace unto the world.
I will try to find some time to put my opinion on the implications of the oil price increases further, but for now I have a bit of food for thought.
If we support the assertion that oil prices will continue to rise through various forces, which can be fully detailed later, one question must relate to internarnational transport and also internal transport.
Certainly, international transport of goods and services will take priority both in use of resources financially and if applicable in terms of scare resources.
Internal transport will have to be realigned both to save precious resources and also due to financial resasons, for the sake of fiscal spending and foreign exchange.
Now, what about internal transport at a micro level?
We always assume that persons in small island states like Barbados will be worse off than large nations.
Certainly this may be true at a macro level, due to the larger nations ability to apply significant resources to a problem, which then impacts invididuals.
Neverhteless, my question is, in times of extreme high transport costs or even scarcity, would one be better off living in a large nation, for example living in New Jersey, having to get oneself to work far away?
Or (for transport costs individually) would one be better off living in a small island nation, such as Barbados, where one just needs to walk or bicycle four or five miles, in some cases ten, to work/ school?
I suggest that we in Barbados would be significantly better off then those in large countries, if only in this aspect of increasing prices of transport.
While this is only one aspect of the fallout of high transport costs, it is significant.
What this means is that as a nation, we must improve public transportation to a safe and reliable level, such that citizens feel less need to have a vehicle for reliable transport.
It also means that we need to assess our infrastructure at an early stage, to include more pavements and walkways and bicycle lanes, such that when the time comes, we are well prepared.
One of the most wonderful ideas that I have seen implemented in Barbados recently is the case of ‘bicycle taxis’ in Baridgetown.
Absolutely brilliant! The owner/s of these should receive an environmental award!
Peace.
The owner/s of these should receive an environmental award!
AND some form of grant or incentive to increase their number.
One other aspect of the implication of high transport costs on internal infrastructures internationally is to increase the necessity for community centralistion around ‘port’ areas.
That is, it will be necessary for the purposes of both business and residential convenience and costs, to become more centralised, if communities are to continue to live efficiently.
Locations around ports will thus become more valuable.
As I noted above, we in small island states like Barbados will be somewhat spared this effect, as nothing is far away, really.
But those in large nations will be significantly impacted by this.
Imagine living in the suburbs outside Miami, New York or San Francisco and having to get yourself to work?
Internal transport, public and private, in all nations will bcome a real issue.
Thank you Hoping to help for the following.
Marriage to citizen of Barbados
6
Any woman who, after 29th November 1966, marries a person who is or becomes a citizen of Barbados shall be entitled, upon making application in such manner as may be prescribed and, if she is a British protected person or an alien, upon taking the oath of allegiance, to be registered as a citizen of Barbados.
I think that the “making application in such manner etc” is the meat of the matter.
My understanding is, that as unfair as it is ,immigration laws have changed in order to prevent “marriages of convenience” and in so doing have trampled on the rights of law abiding Barbadians.
Very typical of our system where the innocent have to pay for the behaviour of the guilty and the guilty still get away.
per CNN ”BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) — An Iraqi photographer working for Reuters was hospitalized Friday after police beat him at the scene of a bombing, officials told CNN.
The unnamed still photographer was in stable condition after five Iraqi policemen struck him on the head with AK-47 rifles, an Iraqi Interior Ministry official said”
Ah. Wonderful ‘freedom’ in Iraq, no? How is this different from the days of Saddam?
Atomic Fisson, and Atomic Fusion. A world of difference.
Maybe there is great hope for a new form of energy, one that is for the most part, un-polluting.
to witt, atomic Fusion.
Fusion, is how the sun works, and has worked for billions of years, burning its energy, hydrogen, cleanly and economically, without apparent pollution or fuss.
We have been attempting to get atomic Fusion working on Earth for some time, but it takes a great deal of energy to start it off.
Now, lately, Scientist using the new Vulcan laser have concentrated 100 times the world’s electricity production into a spot just a few millionths of a metre across: And l0w and behold, they can produce the energy needed to kick off a Fusion reactor. Check: ITER, currently being built Cadarache, Southern France.
A fusion reactor, we are told, would burn the energy supplied by two old car tyres ( or tires), and supply the whole Eastern seaboad of the USA with energy for several months.
Don’t confuse this form of energy with atomic fission, which is how our working atomic power stations across the world, right now, work.
Go to the ‘Net’ for further enlightenment on Fission and Fusion. We need to fully apreciate just what the difference the two forms of energy entail, like candle or diesel burning. We need to know ! They are only difficult to understand, should you fall prey to allow yourself to think so.
From the British Times Online:
British scientists will be allowed to research devastating diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s using human-animal embryos, after the House of Commons rejected a ban yesterday.
An amendment to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill that would have outlawed the creation of “human admixed embryos” for medical research was defeated in a free vote by a majority of 160, preserving what Gordon Brown regarded as a central element of the legislation.
The Government is braced for defeat today, however, on a separate clause that would scrap the requirement that fertility clinics consider a child’s need for a father before treating patients. MPs will also consider amendments tonight that would cut the legal limit for abortion from 24 weeks to 22 or 20 weeks.
AND
The amendment to ban all admixed embryos was defeated by 336 votes to 176. The prohibition on true hybrids was defeated by 286 votes to 223.
The main kinds of admixed embryo permitted by the Bill are “cytoplasmic hybrids” or “cybrids”, which are made by moving a human nucleus into an empty animal egg. These are genetically 99.9 per cent human. As well as true hybrids, it also allows chimeras that combine human and animal cells, and transgenic human embryos that include a little animal DNA.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
A ‘little’ animal DNA? And the World vilified Mengele?
Although IU sympathise with the action to ‘fix’ serious diseases, my opinion is that this is going to far and as the boundary moves, so will has our ethics and the boundary will eventually be moved further.
Additonally, one should not play with what one does not properly understand, there usually is an unexpected side result.
The quote from Einstein of May 17 under ‘Random’ springs to mind re technological advances and our own humanity.
I guess we are moving towards making those myths such as centaurs real, or to those modern ones, mixtures such as on Star Wars.
While the above may seem far-fetched, as I said, boundaries move ever so slightly, every so often, till the grey area is no longer identifiable.
How long before someone seeks to make a human with the speed of a cheetah, or strength of a gorilla.
Useful for the army, no?
Seems to me that certain people are more satisfying their egos in wanting to ‘create history’ than serving the public need in an ethical way.
Welcome to the Brave New World.
Atomic Fusion and Flyingfish !
Out with atomic fission, in with atomic fusion.
The waste from Fusion is no more radioactive than hospital waste. The fuel for the Fusion process is deuterium and tritium. They are both heavier forms of hydrogen. If you want to know where they commonly come from, ask the flyingfish, the jelly fish and the place we love most to swim.
One would imagine there will be certain countries and huge oil companies, not very happy about Atomic Fusion. That is one of the great problems with the world, find something new and amazingly, a panacea to human life, and a lot of people go around with their noses out of joint.
Well that’s life, ain’ it ?
Check out the BBC Monday 19th May,2008.
‘Laser Heats Up The Fusion Future ‘
In terms of the oil price, picture this.
The suppliers susch as Saudi are saying that the demand has not increased, the ‘markets’ are saying that it has.
The suppliers have not reduced their output, but the markets are saying that it has reduced.
Who is ‘being accurate’? Or to put it simply, telling the truth?
The relative increase in demand and reduction in supply would have to be substantial to take the price from just over $30 to $129 per barrel in a fairly short period of time.
Nevertheless, there has been some increase in usage by the ‘newly growing’ economies in the East, such as China, but this has not suddenly happened.
We also know the ‘peak oil’ issue, that the world has already reached and passed the stage of peak oil production and with increased usage internationally, including the ‘new’ Eastern economies, in simple terms the demand and supply equation means increased prices.
But, is this particular recent significant rise caused by this? Why so suddenly? The suddenness indicates that this is probably not the only or even the main reason.
So, what is really the main reason for the shocking increase?
Note that this all happened just after the financial trouble in the US Markets.
It has been fairly asserted that the oil price has been triggered by a run from the markets to commodities by big investors such as hedge and pension funds.
As the markets destabilised, the big funds went to commodities which should basically be a sound investment with low downside, particularly oil and gold.
Now, note that the oil price has not stopped going up.
The question is have the investors continued ‘running’ from stocks or have speculators pushed it further in the hope of continuing fast gains?
If indeed it is speculators, then we can expect that in time, there will be a sharp fall, to a more reasonable level, when the clever investor realises that the commodities are over-priced and they then cash in and invest in suitably priced stocks, if available, or treasury bills and bonds to ‘safeguard’ their investment, until the market stabilises for further investment.
If however, the continuing rise is due to continuing ‘running’ from the financial markets, what is that telling us?
It would tell us that the ‘big guns’ have no confidence in the financial markets, at all.
These ‘big guns’ have significantly more information than you and I, and therefore such a premise would be very, very bad news for the markets and the US economy.
It would mean that the markets are in for a much longer ‘bad ride’ and potential further falls and also mean that the markets are still considered over-priced.
From this it would also mean that the recession will be an extremely long drawn out affair, maybe unprecedented, not short at all, as the underlying factors are reflecting some seriously troubles.
So is the current hike in the oil price due to merely supply and demand, speculators or ‘big gun’ investor worries?
My own opinion is both speculators and ‘big gun’ investor worry, but mainly the latter.
Peace.
Rumple:
If speculators were responsible for the price hike we would see a dip in the price at every monthly call date.
We don’t, that in my mind that leaves fundamentals and “big guns”.
By “big gun” investors I presume you mean those able to manipulate the markets, governments and the masses ( via media ownership ).
A study of the markets in 1929 prior to the Wall Street crash reveals a striking similarity to today’s
movements.
Back then, the beneficiaries of all that dumped stock were the same bankers who own and run the Federal Reserve today, the JP Morgans and Rockefellers.
Create a bubble, get out at the top, then prick it.
Let the devil take the hindmost, but we’ll collect his assets.
All commodities as you say have risen sharply in value because they are visible, tradeable wealth.
Their wealth is attractive because they give some immunity from the fiat currencies in which they are traded.
When comparing commodity prices, one can see true value.
For instance oil, when bought with gold (a secure store of wealth ), is much cheaper today than it was in 2005.
That tells me two things, paper money is being seriously devalued and the markets are being manipulated.
For what reason, one can only guess.
I think you are on the right track looking at the shadow world government characters, and their motives are plain to see once their ability to manipulate is understood.
The consequences of the coming storm could be massive.
Some have predicted the collapse of our currency, destruction of the middle class, even mass starvation.
What should we do?
Get out of debt and get out of the stock market as fast as you can, is my advice.
What’s yours?
$200 US barrel oil, coming up !
The oil haemorrhage we are seeing these last few months, may slow a little if we are lucky. Daily oil industry reports out of London, show the finding of new oil and gas almost every day somewhere in the world. Today it is the North Sea and Brazil again, and we’re (almost) happy to say, Nicaragua, at last.
It is a really good deal for Nicaragua, since they have had to import all their oil needs in the past, and in a couple years time, if their luck holds, won’t have to worry any more in the respect of such energy.
One deeply and sincerely hopes the big oil find won’t destroy the country further, than the complete lack of oil has already done. Big oil finds, for most people in most countries, turn out to be nothing less than,…. ‘ The Devil’s Excrement’, which, is what a Venezuelan blog site calls big oil due to the corruption and mismanagement Big Oil has caused Venezuela. Venezuela is far from being the only country to,…. so suffer.
What ever happens, we will have to become quite fearless and place any thoughts, or obvious signs, about Global Warming,…. to rest. It is an oil ride, so it seems, all the way down !
I am waiting to hear if the house of Roland Edwards, who composed the Barbados National Anthem, has been demolished. It was due to be demolished at 7.00 this morning. I know that up to last night, my cousin, Keith Laurie and Dr. Henry Fraser were going all out to try and save it. If it has been demolished that would be another disaster. I don’t know the exact location of the house, except that it is in St. Peter, but I wonder if we will soon see an ugly monstrosity take its place. Lord, come for your world!
Newsweek April 21/28. 2008
Bamboo, the wonder material.
Top grade racing cycle frames being built out of
Bamboo now in the USA. If you don’t believe that, check out the web. Just put in ‘ Bamboo Cycle racing frames’ and then wonder why we are not making them here for ourselves in Barbados.
Bamboo is much more remarkable than we have previously allowed. Its compressive strength is greater than concrete, and its tensile strength, greater than steel, besides that Bamboo growns over a meter a day. It also produces 35 percent more oxygen from carbon dioxide than trees, and effectively binds soil to prevent erosion.
Strange eh ??? And we always thought it was the poor man’s construction material, but now they are building floors and cabinetts out of it, and it is taking off in the USA, while we are cutting it down here in Barbados, and you don’t see too much of it any more.
Another serious issue is raising its ugly head, that of racism internationally.
While we berate Africa on another thread, and I also am not happy with the slaughter going on, neverthless serious racial tensions are increasing in the ‘Western developed world.
In London in the last day, an Asian youth was allegedly murdered by caucasian youths, racially motived, brutally beaten.
In New York, apparently tensions between Orthodox Jews and African Americans in the area known as Crown Heights, are increasing again.
Unfortunately, lack of education and ignorance resulting in misguided fear, in some cases plain nastiness, is being allowed to overcome sensible thought.
Thus, we berate Africa but our own backyards are in some cases, no better.
As I have said before, there is now the same need as in the 1960′s for a significant effort in a Peace Movement, to address and deal with the growing hatred and misguided violence.
Peace
*********************
BFP says,
Hi Rump,
Robert here. I agree with you 200%.
I am also of the opinion that we could seriously increase global understanding and peace through massive investment in youth exchange programmes. There is absolutely nothing like travel and living with other people in other cultures to expand a person’s worldview and empathy for others.
Sometimes I think that if we could have every child in the world spend 30 days a year living with another family in another country – every year for 10 years from ages 10 to 20 – we could crank down the violence of this world in one generation.
Hmmmmmm…. I’m sounding a bit too much like John Lennon tonight. Time for bed because that 03:00hrs alarm comes early!
Good night all.
Robert
Critical Mass and Exodus
We can take any country we want, start introducing members of another race coupled with their religion, and as soon as a certain critical mass of that introductory race is reached, problems will begin.
This is so obvious one wonders why people bother to become upset when such negative situations evolve. Humans (what ever we have been made to think or assume of ourselves) have never stopped being animals in the way we follow nature’s natural courses when it comes to critical mass.
If humans have stopped doing anything, it is that they have stopped reading, or forgotten the histories of,… Races and Religions.
The reason why certain members of any population insist on becoming immigrant, is because population growth (the Earth’s number one grand problem nobody wants to face) has forced us to do so for the hope of security and a better life, and often to get away from tyrants of many species including political ones who strut Hitler-like moustaches.
Raise any problem now facing Mankind, Oil, water, land, food, lack of security, deforestation, over-fishing, pollution, species decline, ethnic cleansing, et al, and you come back to Population Growth as the root cause.
Against huge ever-growing odds, we’ll have to attempt to do our best about this. We could all start praying. Any God will do, and any number can play !
‘Ah Love! Could though and I with fate conspire
To grasp this sorry Scheme of Things entire,
Would not we shatter it to bits—and then
Re-mould it nearer to the Heart’s Desire!
Omar Khayyam
Two headlines from NBC:
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – President George W. Bush said Wednesday that rebuilding Iraq and Afghanistan as the wars rage on is proving difficult and “we’re learning as we go.”
AND
BAKER, Louisiana – The U.S. government has plenty of reasons to move hundreds of families out of emergency trailers they have occupied since Hurricane Katrina: the start of a new hurricane season, concerns about toxic fumes and the need for residents to find permanent homes.
But some worry they will have nowhere to go once they lose their subsidized housing.
Interesting huh? So much spent in Iraq and Afghanistan, including ‘rebuilding’ what was destroyed in the conflicts and yet, Americans in the US are having difficulty finding adequate, or indeed any, housing.
Land of the free? Free to do what?
Peace
‘Creating Alternative Futures’ (Book )
“Continuing economic growth is accepted as a dogma by virtually all economists and politicians.”
“High rates of growth not only do little to ease urgent social and human problems but in many countries have been accompanied by increasing unemployment and a general deterioration of social conditions.”
“The word ‘Private’, as in private property, comes from the Latin ‘privare’ to deprive—which shows you the widespread ancient view that property was first and foremost communal.”
“In most industrial societies giant corporate institutions control the supply of goods, create artificial demands through advertising, and have a decisive influence on national policies.”
“Free Markets, balanced by supply and demand, have long disappeared.”
“Inflation is just the sum of all the variables economist leave out of their models. All those social, psychological, and ecological variables are now coming back to haunt us.”
“Both capital and labour produce wealth, but a capital-intensive economy is also resource and energy intensive, and therefore highly inflationary.”
“Excessive dependence on energy and natural resources, and excessive investment in capital rather than labour, are inflationary and bring massive unemployment.”
“Costs of litigations, crime control, bureaucratic coordination, federal regulation, consumer protection, healthcare and so on. Notice that none of these activities adds anything to real production, Therefore, they all contribute to inflation.”
“The only real solution is to change the system itself, to restructure our economy by decentralizing it, by developing soft technologies, and by running the economy with a leaner mix of capital, energy, and materials and a richer mix of labour and human resources. Such a resource-conserving, full-employment economy will also be non-inflationary and ecologically sound.”
All the above extracts are from Hazel Henderson. Nobody in power took much notice of what she was saying in the 1970s, though she was well recognised then, as she still is through her books and lectures.
We’ll warn you, if you ‘net’ her out, she is contagious, contentious, and beautiful.
“Economics is not a science; it is merely politics in disguise.” Yes, we like that too !
For many months, we have placed our bets on Obama to win, feeling he is going to make it.
Just wish he could see to bring Cuba back into the fold. If Russia, if China, why not Cuba ?
Can somebody explain why Cuba has to continue ‘Out in the cold’? Isn’t the USA asking for Russia or China to step back in there, as they will now Cuba has located interesting offshore oil ?
But offshore oil or not, we are pro Cuba, and for a number or recent years, have been so,
and it is about time she was recognised as a country of great art, great versitility, great medical establishment, under unduly difficult and long years of unimaginable conditions.
Cuba survives, because of the indominatable attitude of its people, and because the family is cherished, beyond everything else.
We just wish Obama would change his stance on Cuba. Cuba deserves 100 % better.
Colin,
You know how many thousands of Cubans live in Florida? You know how many thousands of votes that represents for the greedy politicians? You must have seen the disgraceful behaviour portrayed by those Cubans over the issue of the little boy, Elian Gonzalez, who was eventually returned to his father? Get real!
Margaret,
Different strokes for different folkes. That is what the world is about, and how, and why it works. If we were all real, like you,…..wonder what sort of world we might have. Somebody has to dream a bit, some of the time.
Having lived in Venezuela, I would never blame Venezuelans over Chavez, or Cubans, over their family ties. In both countries, Family loyalties rule supreme, and in the same way, so are children cherished, supremely. Adious pues !
Are there no tears for Zimbabwe ?????
‘ From Good Hope To Shame in SA’, reads the headline on page 13A of the Nation May 28th.2008. Thabo Mbeki describes the xenophobic attacks against Africans from north of SA as “Absolute disgrace. ” What he said, and his stance, might appear commendable, if you had not remembered what had happened before that.
Before that, Thabo decided to pre-empt the African heads of state who were going to face the man who rules Zimbabwe. Thabo decided to have a little talk with the Fuhrer himself. It might have worked if, the Fuhrer had been less despotic and stepped down off his high horse. But it would have probably had a much better chance of success, if the heads of African States had gone as a strong- armed- mass, and told the Fuhrer where he must get off.
Instead, and consequentially, more and more people from Zimbabwe, flooded into SA attempting to get away from Fuhrer henchmen. The effect of this exodus added to the already high numbers of other non South Africans living in Cape Town and Johannesburg, (Thaboland ).
So ‘Wow’, so crumbles the SA tourist industry, the applecart over- filled now with refugee- Critical Mass, and perhaps the ten million visitors expected for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
Brother Thabo got himself into that mess, like he got himself into the mess over AIDS causing the death of thousands in SA.. Pity there are not more people like Nelson Mandela to make sense of all this, or more Barbadians available to point those people just how well a democracy can work.
What in fact we are sure about: Thabo is responsible for shooting himself in his own foot: And the Fuhrer, with his people starving to death and fleeing for their lives,…. struts implacably on.
One thing we are positive about, this man, this African Fuhrer Magabe, in an act of despotic madness, is hell- bent on taking his country along for the ride to his deathbed.
What else are we to assume? And where are the other voices against the horror of this tragedy? Or is it business as usual in Africa, and anything that takes place there,…. just all in a day’s work ?
CLB:
Mugabe is the doll’s head, the face his “democracy” shows to the world.
Whilst he is pompasetting in Rome, the real power, his generals, are plotting the amount which repression needs to be ratcheted up before the presidential run off gives a guaranteed victory.
I don’t blame Morgan Tsvangeri for not returning, he would be a dead man walking in that sad corrupted country.
Dear Dr. Byer-Suckoo,
You are definitely one of my favourite politicians, but you won’t remain that way much longer if you don’t keep off the TV for just one night. Enough already! You are overdoing it now.
Thistle you are far too prickly.
Turn off your set iof you feel abused, and allow us all to see the nicer side of politics.
ST
Is there really a nice side to politics ?
And if so, where does it start ?
There are rumours that DaCosta Mannings Inc may be touting a new name shortly. Who knows, that an ‘Ace’ of an idea.
I was here updating my links for back home and this one reminded me that Bajans ‘luv’ to talk. Keep talking.
From a home grown musician and producer in London.
Keep well!
ATF out.
Hear some of my stuff at: http://atf.fuzz.com
SWAMP SHOOTING
The new Government of Barbados intends to ban and outlaw the Practice of Swamp Shooting. This is a bold and innovative move as Swamp Shooting is a form of hunting that is viewed as intolerable by all modern administrations and the global scientific community. The only other modern states practising this form of hunting are the islands of Malta and Cyprus, which are now regarded as pariahs in the conservation world and Greenland which is fast becoming a wildlife disaster zone. By outlawing the shooting of south migrating shorebirds each Fall Barbados will be seen as breaking with the past and assuming the controls and responsibilities of a modern state.
An argument is put forward that if the fresh water swamps were allowed to disappear, there would be insufficient wetlands for the migrating birds. This is a spurious argument the core of which is “the shorebirds cannot survive unless they are shot” and should not be heeded. An alternative to banning would be the imposition of controls but these would be very difficult to police and to be effective would have to rely on directives from the U.S. and Canadian Wildlife Authorities, something that might be completely politically unacceptable in the long run. There are certain comparisons with the banning of Fox Hunting in the U.K. This was a long established, almost cultural pastime practiced in particular by the “landed gentry” and wealthy country people and this minority created quite a stir when the ban became law. Nevertheless there was an open vote in Parliament and a large majority endorsed the abolition of hunting animals with dogs.
Many congratulations to the Prime Minister David Thompson and the Minister of Family, Youth, Sports and Environment Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo for their bold and forward looking initiative.
Michael Shemilt
Dear Michael Shemilt,
There are those of us who signed the book
on the killing swamps a long long time ago. If not outright stopped, at very least some measure of bag limit, should have been applied years ago.
By the way, it never was hunting. It was always the pure slaughter of weary birds attempting to evade incliment weather and sodden wings.
What did you think about BTA chairman Ralph Taylor’s comments the other day that Barbados should earmark what is left of its existing coastline for tourism development?
I think he was addressing the BHTA’s AGM when he said it and he pointed to the example of Cuba having done something similar.
Am I the only one who finds this a disturbing suggestion? I mean, aren’t Barbadians purportedly concerned about the swiftly vanishing windows to the sea? Aren’t we already experiencing issues with the overdevelopment of our coastline? Am I the only one who has seen various foreign travel publications and articles disparagingly describe Barbados as ‘overdeveloped’?
And isn’t this suggestion kind of in direct contradiction to this government’s stated policy to preserve some of the coastline as national preservation areas?
So why would Taylor make the suggestion? And why would Adrian Loveridge endorse this idea?
Why is it that this idea is being floated and no-one seems to think that there is anything disturbing about it?
Most right thinking Bajans think what Taylor said is absurd.
He should be asked to explain why the entire coastline of a 166 sq.mile Island with a population of 280,000 should be used for Tourism.
Prehaps he will propose a ferry service to take us to st.Vincent or St.Lucia for a sea bath.
Islandista. Hants.
Taylor seems to have gone out of his mind.
There is something fundamentaly wrong with his thinking. People don’t come to Barbados to find another Miami. It is far cheaper for people wanting such, to go to Miami.
Does the Man have absolutely no sense of esthetics, or the world of natural beauty so many people including tourists, find as one of the main attractions of this island ? How sickening are his intentions, how inchoate, how irresponsible and insensitive can anybody become ?
As the oil squeeze and the price of flights gets worse, how will we fill all these hotels we have now, besides the new ones he insists on ?
Our coasts will be destroyed, cluttered, by the march of White Elephants, right now taking place in Spain. Barbados will have to sell, like a Goat for two farthings’.
The road to Bath beach is being greatly widened. This has been going on the last three years. Is this the first step, to rip Bath from the public, and create more hotel complexes ?
Bath, is the only beach on the East coast where the public can go and enjoy,…. natural,…. peaceful,…. beauty, untainted by the hands of hotel advocates, their boarded walls and gate keepers, and constantly petroling security.
Every new coast hotel creates its own sewerage and garbage problems, the further destruction of island reefs, overloading of the invironement, and consequently death to the natural systems of nature.
Colin, I heard years ago that Bath was to be developed with a hotel/condo/golf course type development.
Does anyone think that we the Barbadian people can stop this, if it is true?
Does the new PM’s pledge of East Coast for Bajans is worth anything at all?
Islandista…
Don’t think for milli-second I endorse it.
What I tried to point out, is that due to a lack of tourism policy direction over the last 15 years, ‘we’ have allowed 28 hotels to close and many of them have been converted into condominiums.
This has robbed us of prime oceanfront land for hotel development and I doubt if we will ever get it back.
I am NOT repeat NOT against condominium or villa development. It is where they are built.
Even though many of the villas are two or more miles from the sea, they still sell.
Its all very well stating we have to reserve the oceanfront land for tourism development, but what land is still available?
No-one in the previous Government stopped and thought about the inevitable consquence of ribbon concrete condominium development along the west coast.
And the south has not escaped it as well.
Demolish the Dover Convention Centre needlessly, which provided a huge amount of summer business for the small St. Lawrence area hotels and then build a SEVEN FLOOR HIGH (out the window for 55 ft maximum) private condominium development on taxpayer (GEMS) land!
Naive liz asked “Does the new PM’s pledge of East Coast for Bajans is worth anything at all?” as she and Beadon contemplate development at Bath. Well aren’t the developers of Port St Charles, Sam Lord’s Castle, Bajan? Like many other things the devil is in the details. We will be told that a creature walking like a duck, with feathers like a duck, quacking like a duck and which looks like a duck is really a donkey! (Loveridge is that you? What a naughty boy!)
Offshore drilling done from land.
The world deep drilling record for drilling from shore to offshore oil zones, was done in Sakhalin island Earlier this year. Sakhalin is between Japan and Russia, and as usual, there is some question about who owns the island.
Anyhow, the well was drilled from land and out to sea, something done in Trinidad in a big way, using steam driven rigs, back in the fifties. It is just much more technically advanced today, and done at much higher angle, like horizontal, and done much deeper or further, using the mud driven turbine motors above the bits we did not have then.
The drilling from land to offshore record, done earlier this year on Sakhalin Island, reached 38,322 feet, though a recent well drilled off an offshore platform rig, has reached 40,320 feet, with a 35,770 horizontal section. ( That is nearly seven miles, as far as you can see to the horizon standing on shore, on a clear day ).
What does this mean for Barbados ? Well, it means, if we had a big enough land rig, which we don’t now have here, though we had one, a National 1320 with 212 feet high conventional rig structure, here in the early 80’s, we could drill six miles offshore from the island, much cheaper than could be possibly done from a drillship , offshore platform, or jackup type rig.
At very least, the feasibility should be explored for the offshore blocks that actually touch Barbados. Drillships or Semis at the moment, are almost impossible to find, their demand being world wide.
What data I have written here, can be verified on the net.
Check out: biz.yahoo.com/pz/080521/143233.html.
It is interesting, I can assure you.
Ok, that’s a relief to hear Mr. Loveridge. I was starting to wonder there …!
I’m also glad to see I’m not the only one who heard the suggestion and found it appalling. I was starting to think I had gone a bit loony when so many days went by and no-one mentioned it – like I was hearing things. LOL!
Michael Shemilt -
There are two types of swamps here who enjoy and practise the sport of shooting birds, those who shoot indiscrimately and those that follow the international rules. This sport is practised globally, even in the UK as well as North America and to be honest no Goverment can outlaw it simply because they are those from all walks of our society who partake. If you do not like it that is your privilege and right. Controlls are the way to go and can be monitored to ensure that the rules are obeyed.
Cuba will always survive because the vast majority believe in their country. The only ones we get to read about and mainly either in or from the yankee press are those who have lost their committment, who never knew what it was like under Batistia or have forgotten.
I backing you Rumboy !
We just wish the people at CBC , directed by Mr Green, would put back on the Cuban station. Surely they could do away with one of the other junk stations and put back on the real art and crafts of Cuba again ?
Cuban talent in dance, music and artistic temperment is outstanding. The cirumstances under which they have lived and survived, is most remarkable, and a lesson to us all.
Local business people need to learn Spanish as much as they can, anyhow. Watching a Spanish speaking television station is a good way to do it.
How will we trade with the ever growing Latin America, if we can’t make close acquaintance ?
Anybody having problems with e mail? like sending but not sent? several people I know are having problems, Disable and Useless seem fairly disinterested.
Cuba, in from the cold ?
Cuban average monthly wage was 20 US.
Free: Housing, Healthcare, Education. Food subsidised. ( Raul’s recent new laws on wages, have changed, Gracious a Dio ).
Cubans do not leave much of a carbon footprint, do they ? Most cannot aford to fly anywhere. Their cars would greatly interest those who loved 1941 Chevolets and wide tailed Packards, Desotos, Ford Fairlanes, Dodges and
such.
Anyhow, and about time to0, Raul is changing things up. You are allowed a cell phone there now.
They produce about 190 thousand barrels of oil a day, and the offshore drilling prospects look really good, being on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico.
Two of the world’s leading Ballerinas are Cuban, but were not allowed to perform there, since they live in the USA. Perhaps Raul will change a lot more of the old laws like that.
Perhaps since there is really not much difference between the way Russia and China treat decidents and other undesirables, and yet the USA now has a measure of relations with those two countries, why won’t the USA change its stance on Cuba now too ? Raul looks like a man one can come to terms with.
Of course, Cuba is becoming a tourist vaccume cleaner,…. for other places. If you look at Cuba’s music and arts, its old world buildings, its diverse countryside, rivers and mountains, the apparent close relationships betweeen its ethnic groups, why wouldn’t tourists want to find a new place to go to ? We hope Cuba is allowed in from the cold !
Well written, necessary and accurate editorial in the Sunday Sun today.
Best editorial for ages and well done indeed.
The situation in Zimbabwe had to be addressed in the mainstream media and finally it has been done well and succintly.
Well done.
So, why IS the rest of Africa and Caribbean keeping quiet while Mugabe has the Opposition beaten and tortured, into submission?
This is the thing about leadership. A leader shows the way, not buries the problem and ignores it, hoping that it will go away.
What it also says to me, is that the Caribbean is certainly not willing in any way to either participate or offend the African continent, mostly because the ‘leaders’ here, probably justifiably, recognise that such would be opening a can of worms for us.
Africa and the caribbean are so different in political and socioeconomic ways, and this is clearly why the ‘leaders’ here are keeping their distance.
Those who seek closer ties are left to their own devices, while the rest look and watch the African leaders encourage self-destruction of the continent.
The sad thing is that on the ‘turn’ of events in South Africa we all looked for a better way and day for that nation.
Unfortunately, it is now looking that South Africa itself has real difficulties going forward.
The only thing to prevent the African continent going deeper into disarray is for the leaders to take a common stand against political brutality and against unecessary strife, generally.
Such a stand must not only be moral, but real in practice, in action and daily life, if necessary by interventions of joint African forces.
If not done now, it will be too late for the whole continent.
Unfortunately, too many leaders today fear making’wrong’ decisions and thus remain incapacitated by indecision, rather than ‘taking the plunge’ and making decisions and acting based on sound values and sound economic thinking, which itself would justify the action.
Peace.
Another massacre in Guyana. Eight miners beaten to death and burned.
http://www.stabroeknews.com/?p=15315
From what Gods are we born in whose image?
A painting, two days ago, one of the most sublime in all the world, is auctioned by Christies for 80 million dollars. It is to go into an obscure mansion, possibly never again seen, when such art should belong to the world, kept safe in an art museum for all who would see it.
Meanwhile, in Somalia, Ethiopia, millions, men, women and children, are dieing in inhospitable near treeless deserts, swamped with the swirl of nostril and eye filling dust, exasperated by extreme heat, drought, and wars.
Those peoples are the strongest and most resourceful people on the face of this Earth, but every living entity has limits on what it can endure, and for Somalians and Ethiopians, death by the millions,… is their only escape. Thambo and Magabe are making sure the heat on Africa stays on, so that starvation can only spread.
How many could have been saved with 80 million US Dollars ? How many could have been spared if Zimbabwe were still the Breadbasket of Africa, instead of being Africa’s third basket case ?
From what Gods were we born in whose image?
*************
BFP says,
Well put, Colin. Thank you.
BFP, Thanks. But I made a mistake I now see.
It should have been Thabo, not Thambo. Can you change it now ? CLB
**************
BFP says,
Greetings Colin. We owe you the thanks for your writing. I missed the Thabo misspelling too. I’ll change it now.
BTW… if you want any other changes or edits, just say so. A blog is a blog!
Cliverton
There is no excuse for the billions being made by oil companies who could help the millions now starving mainly in Africa. There is no excuse for Mugabe or Thabo, who insist on not playing their part.
If the World Order is not made more equitable, within a time span that could be less than the blinking of an eye, then we better hope Jesus, Mahommed, Jah, Bhudda, Shiva, and every other worthwhile God we can think of, comes back to Earth in a hurry, and takes us through the leaning process again,…. if there is such a learning process, or if this is how civilizations end, like the Aztecs, the Incas, the Mayans, falling in on themselves like glaciers of melting ice.
Dreaming when the Dawn’s left Hand was in the sky
I heard a Voice within the Tavern cry,
“Awake, my little ones, and fill the cup
Before Life’s Liquor in its Cup be dry.”
Don’t mind me using Khayyam again. I’m morose, not myself, having lost a very special kitty, to dog hordes not my own, the third cat we have lost in three month, when we have had cats and dogs live with us into ripe old age.
Barbados is a great country and like many other places it has its nuances. None more so than politics. The former government lead by one of Barbados’ bright minds even if we like him or not introduce to the political landscape the “politics of inclusion”. In the beginning the politics of inclusion worked quite well and I dare say that he was a master at it. But like all things else the “politics of inclusion” had a shelf life and in the latter years became the “politics of confusion”. The premise that built the politics of inclusion was that the more you have on your side the less you have to run against. It worked well for 2 1/2 elections but we all know that it angered some and was funny to others in his party. Now that he is history and his party taking a different direction, the politics of inclusion or confusion depending on which side of the fence you sit is also history.
Enter now the 2010 Spencer theory. This theory is based on going back thru a mountain of files from all statutory boards and the civil service looking for all persons in high places who were appointed any time between 1994 and December 2007. The idea is to look for any anomaly which can be attributed to these persons be it “many untaken vacation days”, foolishly appointing anyone after January 15th 2008, or cashing any cheques from people known to be government contractors. This theory while new does not take into consideration the fact that some of these people have families who would have voted for Dem or that they have friends who also voted for change that we can believe in. The theory has a republican based drawn into it that is “if you were appointed between 1994-2007″ you are against us. But just like the “politics of inclusion” it does not take into account that regardless of how many times salaries of consultants are placed in the newspaper and how many people had too many vacation days, the electorate giveth and the electorate taketh away. And at the rate that the 2010 Spencer theory is dispensing itself in the country, the electorate will always regain their power to taketh away.
The 2010 Spencer theory has a bitterness to it. Its implementation is not subtle and its execution will be fatal. Frankly, it smells. If the noted political pundit is anyone to go by, the numbers does not substantiate this theory. Simply put with only 56% of the electorate taking part in the elections, it should be expected that the incumbent would have won back. Therefore it can be deduced that the supporters of the incumbent did not come out to vote. Having done that analysis, the 2010 Spencer theory will add to the supporters of the incumbent which could spell a term of oneness for the goverment.
Finally the “2010 Spencer theory abbreviated (“20 10 S T”) can be very divisive and has some included ones who were included but didn’t jump, very afraid right now because this theory also does not take into account that included doesn’t mean jump. It can be expected that boards around the country will be directed to ensure a sprinkling of subtlety is used the next time the “21 10 S T” is instituted.
Barnabas Collins
political analyst
for the darkness review
The Spencer theory sounds like the self-serving rantings of a BLP apologist who still can’t believe they are no longer in charge. The electorate voted for change…whether they are getting it in all respects is open for debate, but change was the fulcrum of the elections.
Justice……..I voted for change you can believe in lest there be any ambiguity.
I have come across a great Zimbabwean site that is supporting the pro-democracy efforts there – it’s called Sokwanele Zvakwana.
The link for the volunteer form is here (http://www.sokwanele.com/form/volunteer) and you can also place a button on your site that your readers can click to get to the volunteer page.
They actually don’t ask for money on the volunteer form but just your time – you can sign up to help them with research for their outreach campaigns, participate in email activism or even do translation for them if you are skilled in another language.
So here’s an opportunity for the BFP to do more than just rant – you can use your reach and readership to add to these people’s network of volunteers.
In fact, don’t just put the button up – do a lil post bout it nuh? If Beadon can get a post, why not this?
*******************
BFP says,
Hello pretty lady…
Rant? Moi? Our ranting probably was the straw that broke the BLP Government’s back. Without our ranting do you think David Thompson would even know that the words “integrity, transparency and accountability legislation” exist?
Sure… we’d love to help out all sorts of causes, but we’re also very careful about leaving our names and contact information with an unknown website that is dedicated to overthrowing a murderous dictator.
The Starving child, and awaiting vulture.
We really wanted to place this photo above, on BFP, but were unable to do it. It really is the most horrifying photo of life under the duress of extreme stress, being repeated in growing parts of Africa,…. Today.
Everybody needs see this photo, and do not doubt what the vulture will do.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/Alex978/1016152029/
Or just put ‘ Starving Child and Vulture ‘ up on google, and be horrified.
***********************
BFP says
Hi Colin,
That photo is in the middle of the article above the paragraph that mentions it. Can you not see it?
Curious because we have been having some server difficulties. Can you see the photo in our article?
http://barbadosfreepress.wordpress.com/2008/06/25/from-what-gods-are-we-born-in-whose-image/
—- OH…. I see that you are commenting the Submissions page.
Major flooding in American mid-west these past few weeks. Those states affected, at least five, are still trying to recover, including extensive farmlands.
What does it mean for us? With the crops destroyed, it means even higher food prices next year.
Trouble on top of trouble adds up to misery and the trouble just is not stopping.
Inshallah.
Rumple.
Man needs to get off the concrete and back on the Earth that spawned, and nourishes him. There is nothing wrong with soil under our nailes, mud between our toes, though blisters may form on our hands to begin with. There is a lovely smell in the fresh earth now the fields are being plowed and the egrets and the grackles flock. We’d love to see working cart horses again, though many of us may starve till populations sink back to manageable size.
Ok, be that as it may – I know y’all guard your identities and information very closely and secrecy is your prerogative (though you know my opinion on that) but at least put up the button so your readers can click on it and volunteer if they so choose.
(flutters eyelashes) pleeeeeease Clivey?
Once, long ago when I was a young seaman, down a side street on a small grubby shop window in London, I saw a sign that read:
‘Young African lioness, gives lessons in strict obedience.’
The message, writton on a card with phone number added, has forever intrigued me.
With your present, ever inquisitive state of mind, Colin, you should have rang the lioness of intrigue.
Investigated her claims, and made your life changing decisions there and then.
What is life, but a series of choices.
The scary ones being the most seductive albeit with the greatest potential dividend, but maybe hiding a catastrophic downside.
Although you took the High Road, the tantalising allure of alternatives apparently still disturbs your restless spirit.
It would be interesting to hear from families of loved-ones who have suffered the misfortune of hospitalization at a notable hospital here in Barbados.
When we talk of health care at our governmental facility, we comment as though QEH does nothing right, and that the care provided is woefully lacking and sub-standard, not to mention exhaustfully lengthy to obtain. For all QEH’s faults, it is to be commended for operating under less than desirable conditions.
On the other hand, I have come to realize that ‘the other facility’ appears to be only capable of healing cruise ship passengers who are sea sick, and in ‘serious’situations placing bandaids on bruises.
I have lost a loved one through the questionable competence of a surgeon (not the lack of proper equipment nor medicine mind you). Yes –
In one day – Dead the next.. the patient died ” at first cut” on the operating table. Why? Because the doctor grossly mis-interpreted (or did not read) the blood tests, and, did not even order a urine test prior to carting the patient to surgery. The result of which was that they died because the patient was not capable of sustaining surgery – simple and easy as ‘dat”.
Not only was the hospital not capable of providing intensive care, but the staff did not seem to have any training in ‘sustaining life’ since the patient was speedily transferred to QEH (… the ‘it’s your problem now’ shuffle).
QEH is to be commended for their efforts to stablize, analyse, and attempt to save my loved one. However, by that time, there was only one prognosis, and the patient succumbed after a 10 day fight on life support.
I have the highest praise for the surgeons, doctors, nurses, technicians, assistants and all the staff who provided the highest standards in intensive care treatment and service. Conversely, though, it is with extreme regret that when asked for the patient’s file (which was at least 12 inches thick), I was advised that it had been ‘lost’. ‘ HMMM.. why was ‘Dr. ‘X’ seen visiting the QEH shortly afterwards?……
But I write this because of I have heard and learned since that fateful day, from those who have also lost loved ones (can you really die from a hernia operation???), to those who have been told they have cancer (yet go overseas for treatment only to find out THEY DON’T !! ), and from lawyers who say ýou can sue – but – you won’t get anywhere – that hospital has the most lawsuits per capita than anywhere in North America!, to doctors who say ”yep – that was malpractice – but you never heard ME say that, and I will deny it if it ever gets to court’. Yes – this is the salt in my wound… the fact that everyone knows it – but nothing is ever done. The Úntouchables’.
So, I’d like to read more from bloggers who know, or who have even had first hand experience with the ‘system’ here.
As one doctor put it – ‘in Barbados, one hand washes the other’. Thanks.. but I don’t think it has anything to do with CLEAN hands.
Still Crazy After All These Years.
BFP join the band wagon and lobby government to help this family
http://www.nationnews.com/story/361211948483650.php
I agree with Hants. This is shameful.
There is not much we can do to ease the pain of losing a loved one, but to make sure this was not entirely in vain we should use this case to lobby for a mechanism to find out who was responsible and some consequences so that this cannot happen again.
My heart goes out to “Still crazy”
Straight talk, Hermano,
Just picked up on your July 3rd.
‘ Beware ! Beware!
His flashing eyes, his floating hair !
Weave a circle round him thrice
And close your eyes in holy dread,
For he on honey- dew hath fed,
And drunk the milk of Paradise. ‘
(S.T.Coleridge)
Maybe I didn’t actually need a young African lioness administering lessons in strict obedience, though reading the recent budget with misty hard- seeing eyes, makes me ask, after many years hindsight,…. what could have been the harm ?
Will the Fed bailout of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae be enough to calm investors and stabilise the economy?
I doubt it.
The problem is that the underlying economy needs restructuring, from untenable, unsustainable expenditures on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, to the internal soci-economic base, there is trouble.
The bailout of the mortgage backers will only temporary gilt over the problem.
Oil prices will rise as investors continue to seek refuge in commodities, which in itself will compound the problem.
Increasing conflicts and casualties in Afghanistan, which shows that the situation there is not controlled, but just waiting for further conflict, will further destabilise confidence.
In other words, everyone is in for a long, rough ride.
At least three to five years.
We can only manage our own economy and expenditures to ride the storm as best we can.
Peace.
Can someone please enlighten me as to where the coverage of the Ministry of Environment Awards Ceremony held on June 28, 2008 at Orchid World was?
I have checked both Nation and Advocate sources and at this time have not seen a tiny bit of coverage.
I would like to see the information if someone would be kind enough to point me in the right direction!
Kinda makes you wonder… If you have to search so hard….
Hello everyone, my name is Louis and im from St.Martin F.W.I. I have created a new social website and site in general with the Caribbean in mind, working on getting more the contents i need which may include more about the Islands but sometimes thats not so easy to do, I would like everyone support so when you have any free time please check out http://social.islandnetlink.com give me your feedback, thanks.
Time for real change in the USA.
There is just one great hope for the USA and this part of the world. Obama! Obama! Obama!
We need a young new visionary, up with the modern fast-moving world. The Old Salts, for all their experience and past successes, can’t manage the new world of today. It is too far beyond them, too capricious, too accentric, too aureate, for Old Salts to stay up night and day with.
It is a long night and day, every – minute-changing world from now on. Only the young, can afford to stay awake like the priest who guarded the Golden Bough at Delphi.
I am curious about what bloggers think about the PM’s personal assistant being named as a consultant to UDC, does he get both salaries – and what is his consultant salary – by the way do we know what is being paid to Hartley Henry or will we let him off the hook. He is the paid political consultant for the new Government of Grenada having won them the election with his team of Ivan Henry, Charles Jong and Menissa Rambally (hang on those are the same people who are consultants for this government with the constituency councils) – no wonder the ITAL will take long to come
Dear Jo Blo.
Wow! I didnt realise that. Not something I read in the Advocate.
Who thinks that is the new integrity the nation voted for?
What I am worried about for the integrity of our government is that the new constituency councils, are to be appointed bodies not, democratic. Tax payers money is to be spent on a undemocratic process, thought up, and consulted on by people closely connected with the government’s political consultants.
BFP – we need you.
Concerned Environmentalist,
GOOGLE ‘Environmental Award Barbados’ and I think what you may be referring to is an article that appeared in the Advocate 21st June.
I am all for ITAL and i think the previous govt failed miserably in this regard, and i dont think it is enough to say that the previous govt did it so we should shut up – that seems to be the message coming across. The barbados advocate has proven that the traditional media cannot be relied upon – BEfore the election Mr. Bryan was sympathetic to the BLP – but he did not get his tv license so he is now sympathetic to the Dems because he was promised a licence and a knighthood – I happen to know that the poor journalist who wanted to run a story on the follow-up to the hartley henry pay and also to run a story on how much the consultants in the constituency councils set up were being paid an their connections, had the story pulled forthwith with explicit instructions not to pursue any such stories if they wanted their job
it is also alleged that the stories being written about the govt now go to Mr. Henry for clearance before they are printed. I don tknow this for sure but we clearly need BFP to investigate.
it is wrong if it happened with the previous government and it is wrong now
Dear Jo,
Agreed, 100%.
I think the free press website is a brilliant idea. It really opens our eyes to the different side of issues taking place
BFP I thought you might be interested that Keltruth Blog appears on CNN’s website (!)
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/07/16/fbi.mob/index.html
Article online on snail farming, anyone willing to start up a company collecting and bottling the current Giant African Snail population, turning a ‘problem’ into an opportunity for export, if indeed the local variety is the one spoken about in this article, can anyone clarify?
http://www.new-agri.co.uk/99-3/focuson/focuson3.html
Gastronomic gastropods
Snail farming can be a very good business in areas where the local market is strong and where, as a result, over collecting from the bush has led to a shortage and boosted prices. Snails fit in well with other farming activities, helping to fertilize the soil prior to cultivation of other crops. And those of unmarketable size can be fed to pigs, shells included. But snails are not without problems, especially when exotic species are introduced, whether for farming or for biological control of a local ‘agricultural pest’ species. As with any livestock, mini or macro, it is easy to slip on the trail to success.
West Africa is home to several edible snails, but the most popular are the giant snail (Achatina achatina) and the big black (Archachatina marginata). The former reaches a bodyweight of between 80 and 250g in 18 months to two years, whereas the big black adult weighs about 350g or more. These are far larger than the European, Helix species which, perhaps undeservedly, have a reputation for superior taste and texture. It is not unknown for unscrupulous traders to stuff the shells of European species of snail with pieces of meat from giant African snails, thereby deceiving the consumer to enhance their profit. This practice will not, of course, work in the market places of West Africa where snails are usually sold live!
Snaileries can vary from a patch of fence-protected ground, sheltered from the wind, to a wooden box or movable pen. Also widely used are trenches or pits which, provided they protect the snails from predators (rats, lizards, centipedes etc.) also work well. Ash, neem or tobacco leaves help to deter natural predators and a site close to the home helps to deter human thieves.
Breeding stock can be obtained from a nearby market or collected from the bush. In either case, this at least ensures that the species is adapted to local conditions. Snails need food plants and, if on open ground, shelter plants as well. It seems that snails change their eating preferences as they age, the younger snails preferring leaves whereas the more mature enjoy fruit. Giant African Snails are apparently unwilling to tackle the skin of fruit or vegetables, which the grower must therefore slice or quarter in order to avoid excessive waste. A source of calcium is also important for shell formation. Ordinary school chalk works well but is expensive. Powdered oyster shells or poultry eggshells can be used if there are no other readily available sources of natural calcium. Humidity is essential at all times and snaileries must be watered when ambient humidity drops.
Even the best-fed snails may fail to grow well. One of the problems is their sensitivity to traumatic shock. The growing shell is very fragile and, if damaged, the animal’s growth pattern is upset. The shell itself is protected by a membrane or cuticle and this does not regrow if removed by abrasion. The exposed shell is then vulnerable to attack by anything acidic. Most vulnerable are the hatchlings which, in the case of A.achatina, are tiny. This species may lay a clutch of several hundred eggs of about 5mm in length and the newly emerged snails are about the same length. In the case of A.marginata, there are fewer, larger eggs of about 1cm in length and the hatchlings have a better survival rate being more robust. Again, as with any livestock, management that is sensitive to the particular needs of the species, together with standard good practices of hygiene and protection, should ensure a reasonable success rate.
It may be that recognition of the need to conserve threatened wild species will change attitudes more effectively than the demands of would-be commercial growers for information. Research by CIRAD (Email: brescia@cirad.nc), on conserving a snail indigenous to New Caledonia (Placostylus fibratus), is leading to the development of controlled rearing methods in order to conserve wild stocks, now much depleted by over collection. In the last five years, it is estimated that stocks have been reduced by 45%. P.fibratus is an important source of protein and income, and to outlaw its collection from the wild would pose serious problems. By developing ways of farming the snail, the natural population can be both conserved and reinforced and the people maintain their supply of snail meat and their income.
There is still much need for research on snail farming and one of the challenges to be overcome is to convince government authorities that such research is necessary. Snails may be a delicacy but regrettably not everyone thinks of snail farming as an activity indicative of progressive agriculture.
Dear Barbados Free Press.
How do you like the two faces to Democracy?
What is the difference between Karadzic of Bosnia, now after thirteen years about to face justice at last in the Hague for crimes committed against humanity in his own country, and Mugabe of Zimbabwe, and Omar al-Bashir of Sudan , for the same crimes committed in their own countries ?
The difference is the new world order, and the new-forming face of African democracy. No, not Mugabe, nor Bashir for Darfur, will ever face justice for crimes against humanity in their own countries, in the Hague, or anywhere else.
And so it goes!
Both examples you cite, Colin, are now client states of the People’s Republic.
The West and its human rights imperatives have been forsaken in the rush of African nations to recolonise, selling their souls and their people for the new kid on the block, the emerging renmimbi.
Straight talk, oye, amigo !
Now take Chaves, beckoning China and Russia into the oil of his own country. Chaves better watch his ,…… He is coverting his new masters, but he does not yet appreciate that.
The Knell of Democracy ?
If Africa was the birthplace of Homo Sapiens,
then Africa seems now fast- becoming his deathbed.
Perhaps nature should be allowed to take her course ? Perhaps starvation intervention using aid in Africa, is more long term- harmful than one should assume ?
It is becoming painfully obvious democracy is no longer wanted in Africa. We don’t need to ask Mr Mugabe, or Mr Omar al-Bashir of Sudan “Why”.
We don’t need to ask The African Union’s Bernard Membe to shed some light, or our boy Thabo. They are all equally responsible for the new order they are creating for Africa. After all, politicians create, or become, the images of the leaders they pine for, and sooner or later in undemocratic countries, the ambitious, so- called politician, gets what he wants.
Now that Africa has Russia and China firmly in its enthral, two countries both themselves as undemocratic as could be found, should the West really bother ( please notice I did not write ‘stop caring’ ), any more about what African leaders do to their people ? You know— the slaughter, mutilation, rape, and war-instigated starvation and migration that continually goes on?
Surely Russia with so much oil and gas and other wealth, plus its iron controlling fist, and China with their cheap labour and huge demand for any resources they can lay hands on, will know just how to look after Africa.
Does the West really need to pour any further aid into Africa, aid which is largely converted to arms one way or another, so that the perpetuation of wars can be blamed just as much on the West through its long enduring guilt, and largess; and the hunger for killing can be continually fed on,… and on,…. and on, and the dictators can dictate and live in grand style, indefinitely, with their noses high in the air above the rotting flesh and never ending misery ?
Well put Sir, well put.
Hear, hear.
People talk of ‘helping’ Africa. Nut who does aid go to, not the people surely. Mostly any monetary aid goes to the few unscrupulous leaders.
And other aid to the poor? To those pt into virtual camps and butchery by their own ‘brothers’?
Soothing perhaps, but certainly not addressing the root cause or even causing a dent.
As long as the unscrupulous barbarians are left to do their worst, misery shall remain.
Peace.
Rumplestilskin. Are we not voices crying in the wilderness ?
The American philosopher Stanley Cavell writes:
“ The more one learns, so to speak, the hang of oneself, and mounts one’s problems, the less is one able to say what one has learned; not because you have forgotten what it was, but because nothing you said would seem like an answer or a solution: there is no longer any question or problem your words would match.”
I feel like that. Why should anybody sit up and act, or even think about anything we write. Are we making any contribution, or are we just adding clutter, that goes out into the deep Universe forever, and ever? Will anything we scratch, help correct the wrongs we see and write about ? Are they really wrongs ? Are the rotting bodies with the shuffle of fighting vultures over them, not just figures of our own imaginations in the sand ?
Will Evil stalk the world and gain the upper hand forever, and ever, and never face atonement. Asking those questions and answering them, depends on what side of the fence you are on.
Now do you see what Stanley Carvell means , and why we hesitate in mid page ?
BFP: A bit of a preamble before I get to my point. I don’t know if other bloggers have had a similar experience to mine, but when I mention the names Barbados Free Press, or Barbados Underground, people look at me as if I am either guilty of treason, or as if I have just stated that I saw an alien creature exit an UFO. They seem to just stop short of putting their fingers up to their lips and whispering, “Sshh!” I have to ask myself the question, are Bajans scared of the truth? (Don’t bother to answer!) It would be interesting to know if others have had similar experiences.
As regards the proposed marina at Six Mens, I am now in a position to state that perhaps all is not lost for the goodly fisherfolk and residents of Six Mens, who have stated emphatically that they do NOT wish a marina there. I attended the Friday Luncheon at DLP Headquarters on Friday, 25th, at which Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo was the Guest Speaker. I brought up the subject of Six Mens during Question Time, and I also had a private chat with Dr. Byer-Suckoo, and I can say that the matter of the proposed marina is not a fait accompli. That’s all I can say at the moment, but it has given me fresh hope that we can save Six Mens from – to quote the late Errol Barrow – “an abomination of desecration”. Nil desperandum!
******************
BFP says,
Hi Margaret,
Thanks for the update… and if folks are horrified that you mention BFP and BU – well, they are just having some difficulty adjusting to the fact that the ordinary person can talk to the world from their bedroom (or kitchen table like me!)
If you see our Cliverton in your travels, please tell him to at least call his womany.
thanks!
@Margaret Knight…
It’s funny you mention your above. I hadn’t really thought to mention it here, but… When I’m out with friends and acquaintances, I will often mention “The Barbados Blogs” within the context of open and free discussion of serious matters.
On at least a half dozen occasions, the entire restaurant or pub has suddenly gone silent… I’m not sure if its fear or interest — but regardless, the Blogs are empirically generally known and of interest….
Oh, gosh! Cliverton ain’t get home yet?? I could have sworn I saw him up by DLP HQ, in heavy disguise – dark, wrap-around glasses, a Groucho Marx mustache, rapper cap on head with peak over the left ear, with the inscription “Yardie From Big Apple”, and walking about like a steel donkey.
Oh, that wasn’t Cliverton? My mistake, it must have been Clyde Turney.
Chris Halsall, I think it’s a mixture of fear and interest. Many people secretly read BFP and BU, and perhaps even contribute, but they would rather die than let it be known. I know someone who contributes, under several different names, and at times numbers, but would flatout deny it if questioned.
Dear BFP,
Is the ‘Submissions ‘ space chock pull.
We can’t get get anything in.
If you did not like a submission for some reason, would it not mean that Barbados Free Press was no longer Free?
If you decided to block something we write, would you be good enough to give us a line or two about it ? Who could object to that !
Sincerely, C.L.B.
Emerging Latin American Dictatorships.
Has Latin America decided like Africa, that democracy does not work now ? Look at the three emerging chicklet- dictators of Latin America, Chavez, Morales and Correa. Chavez is now busy courting Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, another dictator. Watch how the vultures gather, birds of a common flavour !
Start watching the Arms deals into Latin America from Russia and China. Listen to the Anti-American chatter, carefully. Don’t ever believe should America weaken as the dictators’ hope, that West Indian lives will not suffer worse for it. Soon, too soon, would we see the swift-moving shadows of the Vultures circling high over our heads. They may even hatch here again, in the West Indies. The dearth of democracy hatches such vultures in its discontinuous vacuum.
Oh dear … hasn’t Cliverton made it home yet? We’ve all been anxiously waiting to read the next installment of that saga (well I am:).
By the by have you noticed that the Nation of all places seems to have started a blog for Crop over? I noticed it advertised in today’s paper. How’s that for irony?
Dear Islandista:
Where?
If you have the link, please post it here.
Thanks.
NBC News and news services
updated 1:44 p.m. PT, Tues., July. 29, 2008
WASHINGTON – Sen. Ted Stevens, the longest-serving Republican senator and a figure in Alaska politics since before statehood, was indicted Tuesday on seven counts of failing to disclose thousands of dollars in services he received from a company that helped renovate his home.
Stevens, the first sitting U.S. senator to face federal indictment since 1993, has been dogged by a federal investigation into his home renovation project and his dealings with wealthy oil contractors.
The investigation has upended Alaska state politics and cast scrutiny on Stevens — who is running for re-election this year — and on his congressional colleague, Rep. Don Young of Alaska, who is also under investigation.
Story continues below ↓
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Prosecutors said Stevens received more than $250,000 in gifts and services from VECO Corp., a powerful oil services contractor, and its executives.
From May 1999 to August 2007, prosecutors said, the 84-year-old senator concealed “his continuing receipt of hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of things of value from a private corporation.”
Home goods, improvements probed
The indictment unsealed Tuesday says the items included: home improvements to his vacation home in Alaska, including a new first floor, garage, wraparound deck, plumbing, electrical wiring; as well as a Viking gas grill, furniture and tools.
He also was accused of failing to report swapping an old Ford for a new Land Rover to be driven by one of his children.
Justice Department said Stevens will not be arrested and will be allowed to turn himself in.
Stevens has adamantly denied any wrongdoing but he said little else publicly about the investigation.
In a written statement, the legislator said, “I have never knowingly submitted a false disclosure form required by law as a U.S. Senator.”
Stevens continued, “In accordance with Senate Republican Conference Rules, I have temporarily relinquished my vice chairmanship and ranking positions until I am absolved of these charges.”
fact file TED STEVENS
• Personal
• Political career
• Senate career
• Issues
Personal
• Born: Nov. 18, 1923, Indianapolis
• Occupation: Lawyer
• Family: Wife, Catherine (first wife, Ann, died 1978). Five children.
Source: msnbc.com research/Alex Johnson • Print this
On Capitol Hill, Sen. John Warner, R-Va., called Stevens a hero, adding, however, he didn’t know any details about the indictment. “All of us have time that we have to deal with that are tough,” Warner said. “I wish him the best.”
“I’ve known Ted Stevens for 28 years and have always known him to be impeccably honest,’ said Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., another longtime colleague.
Prosecutors said Stevens “took multiple steps to continue” receiving things from VECO Corp. and its founder, Bill Allen.
At the time, the indictment says, Allen and other VECO employees were soliciting Stevens for “multiple official actions…knowing that Stevens could and did use his official position and his office on behalf of VECO during that same time period.”
VECO’s requests included funding and other aid for the oil services company’s projects and partnerships in Pakistan and Russia.
It also included federal grants from several agencies — as well as help in building a national gas pipeline in Alaska’s North Slope Region, according to the indictment filed in U.S. District Court in Washington.
Pet projects criticized
A moderate Republican, Stevens has served almost 40 years in the Senate, where he unabashedly steered money to his remote and sparsely populated home state. He often drew criticism, however, for going around the traditional appropriations process to fund his pet projects.
The Justice Department has closely followed that money, looking for where it intersects with the senator’s son, Ben.
A lobbyist and former state senator, Ben Stevens was paid as a consultant for many in the fishing industry who benefited from legislation his father drafted.
When Ted Stevens created a $30 million marketing fund for Alaska seafood, Ben Stevens helped decide which companies got the money. Some were his clients.
Ben Stevens also had financial ties to a company that stood to make millions off a piece of federal legislation his father wrote. But he repeatedly has said he never lobbied his father and both men have dismissed such criticism for years.
Election year battle
Stevens is facing the mayor of Anchorage, Mark Begich, in this year’s Senate contest. Democrats view his seat as one of their top pick-up opportunities.
However, before the general election, Stevens must survive a GOP primary that occurs on Aug. 26.
The Cook Political Report labels the Alaska Senate race as a “toss up.”
Seven other Alaska politicians had previously been indicted in the FBI’s long-running investigation of political corruption, including state Sen. John Cowdery, chairman of the influential Legislative Council Committee. He resigned last week.
Stevens acknowledged in June 2007 that he was under investigation.
A month later, FBI agents raided his house in Girdwood, a suburb of Anchorage, after a wealthy Alaska businessman told prosecutors that he paid his employees to renovate the house.
Stevens announced last week that he would not attend next month’s Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn.
Thank you, Margaret Knight for your concern and actions over the propose marina at Six Mens. The rich developers don’t care about us ordinary Bajans, they just want to get richer by making us uncomfortable. We do not want a marina at Six Mens, so keep up the good work on our behalf.
Dear Margaret Knight,
Would you raise up your knightly shield and lance against anything happening on a hotel scale to Bath Beach, the last place the public can enjoy peace, nature and tranquility, on the East coast.
The great widening of the road has still not finished after three years of work. Just why the road needs to be so wide, and obviously very expensive, leads one to fear the site has been marked for more hotel construction, concrete, public restriction, guards with dogs, etc, on what is the last natural, well -shaded and safely-bathable, East Coast bay.
What does DIGICEL think of YOU?
http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0811/072.html
The tone of the article is interesting.
I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Lesley Barrow. She was such an enterprising person, who loved life and her work. My condolences to the Barrow family.
It is now becoming a regular occurrence to read articles and to hear from friends that relatively young women are heading homeward bound at the prime of their lives. Women have now taken on life challenges often times alone and the strain, stress and pressure is mostly likely having its toll on them. Perhaps, these women are suffering in silence. Not enough time is being spent relaxing and de-stressing from the rigors of life.
It was indeed shocking to learn that Lesley Barrow is the latest victim – a progressive, young high achiever at the prime of her life. http://www.cbc.bb/index.pl/article?id=1947531 It’s all too soon – we need to stop, walk the beaches, go for the early morning swim, smell the roses and take time out for ourselves.
I would like to encourage everyone on this blog to think about their lives. Make a list of what’s really important. Separate the good from the bad. Set out boundaries and priorities. Barbados is a beautiful island with a lot to offer by way of finding things relaxing to pursue but far too few take the time out of their schedules to enjoy them.
I recently started reading and following a health and wellness blog that got me on track to healthy eating, daily exercises and lifestyles changes that are leading to a better quality of life for me. I would like to recommend it click2loseweight.com/weight-loss-blog as there’s something for everyone. Give it to a woman you love, a friend or foe.
Sincerest condolences to Lesley’s brothers and the Barrow and O’Neal family and friends. Eternal Light grant unto her O Lord, let Thy perpetual Light shine upon her – May she rest in peace.
Big “HOOoRAAA” bout a tiny snake. I is a Bajan living in TT, I could go outside right now and pick up one ah dem tiny snake, any day, any time.
So, if our educated Yankee friend discovered it, yes he discovered it only now, we discovered it many many years ago. I am 63 years old and knew of these snakes all my life. Now we all know Yankee can’t talk english yet alone write it. So let them keep making their big discoveries!
Correct RKT !
The small Barbadian snake we heard of years ago, ‘ tho trew, I never seen he .’
Enjoy La Trini, but be careful ‘dong der’.
Barbados Free Press you must have seen the article by now written by Mr. Darcus Howe! A spineless author painting the caribbean as more violent than the war torn regions of Afghanistan and Iraq!
His Exact quote was “joining the military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq is preferable to a violent life in the Caribbean”. What nonsense all spinning off from the murder in Antigua.
I have covered this and written an extensive response at my blog, RealBajan.com. You have the readership to generate a response, please post this link to my story http://realbajan.com/2008/08/15/savage-murder-in-antigua-darcus-howe-prematurely-writes-caribbean-obituary/ and share with your readers what this toothless writer is doing to our name. We need to protect ourselves at all costs.
Luke,
The man obviously does not live in or know the Caribbean. It reminds me of many who wrote about the British Empire, after a short visit to Burma, India, or the West Indies.
Time for Virgin to get some new planes?
This is the second time this same Virgin flight has had to dump fuel and land, both times with an unaccompanied minor, my daughter, presently stranded in London Gatwick:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/7578428.stm
Has anyone taken a bit of time to consider women in Barbados who are over 50 years, who are single and not able to enter male-female relationships for one health reason or another, who are well qualified and work full-time but are disqualified from getting loans from any financial institution because of low salaries, who are unable to accumulate savings and who walk around unsuccessfully begging and borrowing (from persons who are financially sound) with a view to paying bills and putting nutritious food on their table? Would anyone be interested in knowing where such women may end up? Would some of those who are financially sound be willing to make small loans available to such women ($2 000.00 minus sexual favours) and allow them to sign a legal document with the promise to make repayments at the rate of $50 per month until they can stand on their feet again?
Hmmmm. Manning states that the proposed union is a ‘coalition of the willing’, with a view to economic union by 2011 and political union by 2013?
How exactly will this ‘political union’ work?
Is this a ‘subtle’ (or not) move at a virtual ‘paper coup’ in the works?
Now brings to understanding why T&T was so willing to host the CCJ, but not willing to participate as the last appealate court.
That move was a first step in attempting to make Barbados subservient to T&T.
This next ‘coalition of the willing’ is the next step.
Firstly, ensure that the political union headquarters and de facto power is in T&T.
Alienate ‘non-willing’ islands and basically force them to join this new union.
T&T running the show.
No more Caricom, just an enlarged T&T Federation.
Paper coup.
Neat.
Tourism problems.
Zoom Airlines bankrupt.
Kudos to the new Government, to the Ministry for the success of the enforcement of the dress code for children.
Although only one day, it indicates that people will tow the line where necessary.
I will also not say ‘new’ dress code, because it has always been there.
The difference is that the Government has had the determination to tell people ‘where its at’, unlike the previous one.
Well done. Discipline and neatness is the first step to success.
Peace.
I have not been out yesterday but if the dress code has been adhered to, I think that is a bigger plus to this government than the “free” bus ride. These young people were of the opinion that they can dress the same way in the business sector. I am glad that discipline has been brought back into this society, this would take some of the pressure of the private employers.
The kudos on the new dress code go to the principals of the secondary schools in particular Mr Mathew Farley.
Mr Mathew Farley better ‘fraid he don’ get replaced like another super teacher a few years back, who tried to bring his school and teachers, under much needed disciplin and heavy manners. The ministry, in the end, gave him a sideline job. We’ll never forget what happened to him, though his name evades us at this moment.
Lessons of the past should be learnt, not ignored.
To rise, civilisations must seek peace.
Learning contributes to goodwill, goodwill to friendship, friendship to peace.
Our way of life may seem technological, yet is primitive.
Hatred and force serves no one.
Learn from Atlantis, survival now depends on it.
Today everyone wants others to be like them. We must respect other for who or what they are. If you can’t get along just accept and move on.
Off topic:
Good news for former Bajan doctor:
http://appft1.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PG01&s1=%22scantlebury%2C+morris%22&OS=%22scantlebury,+morris%22&RS=%22scantlebury,+morris%22
Hunger strike at Dodds:
I see that the incarcerated are doing their bit to conserve resources in these hard times, how much will bajan taxpayers save?
Peace
Hush-hush housing scam in Barbados
Published on: 9/10/08
http://www.nationnews.com/editorial/329024592694347.php
Kudos to the new Government, to the Ministry for the success of the enforcement of the dress code for children.
………………………………………………………………………………….
The enforcement of the dress code is not the Ministry of Education, but the hard work of Matthew Farley, Jeff Broomes and Secondary School’s Association. These are the ones who are doing the enforcements and the risk whilst the Ministry is promoting the political free rides issue.
I read in The Nation newspaper today that Ralph Gonsalves telling David Thompson he wrong about giving Bajans jobs first. Dont mind that drunk raper mr.Thompson, ignore he and do what you have to do for your bajan people.
Wuh loss.
All hell brekking loose in de financial market nuh.
Alla de udder issues getting eclipse, by dis mess.
De bigup institutions is falling dun.
It ain’t stoppin suh easy, doh.
I say again to wunnuh. De mose valuable product now is agricultural produce.
Yuh cyan eat paper, but yuh can eat yam and sweet potato.
Hear wuh I say!
With the international economies getting worse, now is the time for the Barbados Government to enact legislation to prevent the indiscriminate repossession of properties by banks, from hard-working people who may find themselves in trouble due to the economy.
This does not mean taking assets from banks, but rather protecting assets of taxpayers who contribute to the economy.
This move will protect the economy in many ways. It will ensure that taxpayers can still function as contributing to the economy while getting back into the workforce.
It will ensure that there is not sudden collapse of property values due to the sudden foreclosure of many homes.
It will ensure that family life is not disrupted by distressed parents trying to ensure a livelihood for their families.
It will ensure that barbaric North American practices of stripping assets away from decent citizens are not encouraged here in our island.
Is this the Government of the people?
We shall soon see.
Let us see the legislation right now.
So the Board of the QEH appoints the sister of the Minister of Public Works and long standing Member of the Young Democrats as the Deputy Hospital Director – and the press release fails to mention this – so much for ITAL, LITA, ATIL, LIAT or any combination thereof
This is interesting http://www.lawcourts.gov.bb/LawLibrary/events.asp?id=646 a case in which Maria Boyce was represented by Mitch Codrington (oops isnt he the chairman of the QEH), it’s just a cess pool now
Bfp,
See what you gone and done constanty harassing David Thompson about locking up the Blp thiefs? Well he open his mouth in Canada about the money they got stash away in oversea banks and now Mia prancing up pon he saying how she going sue he and you know how the Blp does love to sue people. Everybody know for a fact that they got milions stach away but how thompson going PROVE it, you think it easy? Owen Arthur was drunk in a rum shop one night and he laugh when somebody ask him if it is true he got a million and he said he forgot to add on the hundred figure to that, so he got over a hundred million. don’t let anybody fool you. All them Bs want locking up and another thing, they take over Barbados Freepress , they so blasted vex because the DLP doing a good job. You don’t throw stones up in a empty tree, right? They stinging like hell on your blog. Dah fuh lick dem. I hope Davey get proof and lock them to hell up.
@ TRUTH
“they take over Barbados Freepress ”
It is their turn to share licks. In the words of Chris Rock. “YOU LOST.” from the Letterman show 2 nights ago.
We DLP supporters can stand back and watch the ride.
You have to admire Owing. Typical former “North American”Leader.
Using his “Status” to introduce INvestors to the Guyana Prime Minister.
Commissions and finders fees khan dunn.
Hi Hants. Do tell me, would Roger Harper come to the Caribbean and speak about party problems or would he use protocol and speak about something that can better assist Canada? The place and timing was wrong on the PM’s part.
Owen Arthur was drunk in a rum shop one night and he laugh when somebody ask him if it is true he got a million and he said he forgot to add on the hundred figure to that…
………………………………………………………………………………….
You said it all. A drunk man might say he can fly. Would you believe him? Stupppppeeeesssss
Just to be pellucidly clear.
The BLP lost.
They will control BFP for the next 4 years in order to make us forget about VECO, 3S, Million dollar baby Blarney, wukfuhwuk et al.
Soon we will be lining up to sign a petition to recommend the members of the last Government for saint hood.
14 years of waste and cost overruns will disappear from our memory as if by magic.
I forget about the $750,000 cheque already. De magic working.
Tell me Why
September 24, 2008 at 2:41 pm
“Hi Hants. Do tell me, would Roger Harper come to the Caribbean.”
As far as I know Roger Harper lives in the Caribbean. I don’t think he plays cricket anymore.
Opps Hants. My apologies. I mean your Prime Minister, the Honourable Stephen Harper. Since I have made the correction, can you answer my question Mr. Lucidly smart man
@ Tell me Why
1. Stephen Harper is in the midst of a political campaign and Barbados is far from his mind right now.
2. PM Thompson was speaking to Bajan Canadians.
Can anyone show where the visit was covered in Toronto’s mainstream media?
Probably not.
@ Tell me Why
Just joking with you re Roger Harper.
However, Harper could be a problem for Barbados.
He wants to stop Canadians from using Barbados as a Low Tax Haven.
Note that his Government accused the Liberals of corruption “sponsorship scandal” and people went to jail.
Maybe he could give our PM some lessons.
gotta go make some money.
PM Thompson was speaking to Bajan Canadians
………………………………………………………………………………….
It was stated that he was addressing a recently formed DLP association. I don’t know if you attended, but I was told that many Bees were in attendance to hear what the PM had to offer. Remember, Bees and Dees are always interested in knowing what is happening in Barbados. Also Bajans love to be up front and center when big wigs keep a function to be part of the freeness.
Tell Me Why: Oh, yes, I would believe it! There is a Latin phrase, “In vino veritas”. Work that one out for yourself.
Tell me Why
@ I don’t know if you attended.
No I did not attend.
@ Tell me Why “Also Bajans love to be up front and center when big wigs keep a function to be part of the freeness.”
Nothing wrong with that. Bajan food sweet.
Nothing wrong with that. Bajan food sweet.
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love dat.
Whilst in Canada, I used some salt whilst cooking and the salt content is real low. I will say you have to use 40% more salt in Canada to get your meal right.
I cook real Bajan food and had guests asking for more. Could you believe I purchase 26 Chicken drum sticks that look like Turkey legs for only $12. Canadian. Here in Barbados I will have to pay $13.00 for five drum sticks that look like pigeon legs. We are really being raped morning, noon and night. Still surprise our birth rate is low with this constant raping.
“In vino veritas”. Work that one out for yourself.
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Hi Thistle, I wasn’t fortunate to attend the status quos schools, thus my stupidity in understanding your Latin phrase. I will not laugh or cry since I ain’t got a clue. Sorry to disappoint, my educated friend.
In Bajan parlance it means, “When yuh got up yuh likkers de truth does come out.”
Thistle, you see why I couldn’t respond. By the way people. Karen Dear the fearless Advocate, then Nation reporter who received many awards for writing on Health issues, especially the Queen Elizabeth Hospital passed away a few minutes ago. May she rest in peace.
So sorry to hear. Did not know the lady, but she wrote very well indeed.
Many young are going onwards nowadays.
Peace.
Goodbye Karin, goodbye Paul- you were great.
Trafalgar and Blinker-Vision Spinners.
We enter the realm of black knights and white, a historical misconception of events.
Sunday Sept 28th. 2008. Page 9, the Barbados Advocate. Leonard Shorey on the one or two local spinners attacking Lord Horatio Nelson, again.
Well the spinners can now go to the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London, and see paintings from the actual battle of Trafalgar (against the French ), where black sailors stood shoulder to shoulder with Lord Nelson, fighting at his side on his flagship Victory, in the painting by Denis Dighton , of 1805. There are several such paintings indicating the presence of black sailors as Nelson dies, mortally wounded.
As for the scathing criticism that Nelson never helped save Barbados from the French , we have to remember he destroyed the French Armada, and so there were no longer French Men of War galleons, to trouble Barbadian waters. Nelson and his fleet, with his black sailors amongst his men, put ‘paid’ to any further French adventure and intent, on Barbados. Q.E.D.
So for God’s sake, leave Nelson with his one arm and one eye, alone, in the middle of Hero’s Square where he rightly belongs. And thank you Leonard Shorey, not that your historical proof, or any proof, for that matter, will ever detract blinker- vision spinners.
Tell Me Why,
We just picked up on Karen Dear. In such moments we find no other place, or person, but Khayyam.
Lo! some we loved, the loveliest and the best
That Time and Fate of all their Vinatage prest,
Have drunk their Cup a Round or two before,
And one by one crept silently to Rest.
David Rockefeller urges worldwide population control measures
Metacafe
October 1, 2008
In this vintage speech from the mid-1990s, David Rockefeller urges the world to curb population growth and implement control measures via global regulatory bodies such as the United Nations.
David Rockefeller Speaks About Population Control. – The funniest videos clips are here
‘Stabilizing population’ ultimately means, despite any feel good intentions, sterilization, vaccinations, encouraging abortions, using ‘food as a weapon,’ viewing disease, war and pestilence as a satisfactory means of natural correction and more (abuses in the Third World remain widespread). While philanthropic world organizations appear kindly, their net effect in the countries and regions they service has often been devastating to the sovereignty of individual human bodies, to local religious cultures and to developing nations in general. And what’s more, these aims are always achieved by ever-greater control by world governmental bodies– who have repeatedly demonstrated they warrant no trust or support.
While Rockefeller’s speech perhaps neutralizes the negative effects of his and other globalists’ policies, the general optimism he portrays in general policy terms may be but a euphemism for crimes against humanity over the past years through the developing world.
Google: Henry Kissinger National Security Memo #200; food as a weapon; World Health Organization; United Nations Population fund, UNESCO, tetanus, malaria, Gates Foundation, Peru native sterilization Fujimora, Nigeria sterilization, China one child policy, George H. W. Bush population control, eugenics, and any/or host of other search terms
This morning, October 2nd, at 9.50, a disabled lady drove into the car park at Big B Supermarket. She needed to park her car in one of the special spots designated for disabled persons (there are about 4), but all were occupied. You will never guess what was parked in one of those spots. A Cable & Wireless van. The license number? MB2053. I usually walk with my camera, but I did not have it with me at the time, or I would have photographed the van parked in the Disabled spot. Someone needs to be made an example of. Are we serious about disabled persons in Barbados? If we were, it would have been possible for relevant authorities to tow away that van.
Dogbitemuh,
It does not matter what we really think how world population should be controlled. It will be controlled in Nature’s own way, should we ourselves decide, moraly, or for religious reasons, we don’t want to have any part in attempting to organise such a thing ourselves.
By nature’s own way, I include the inevitable; war, plague, dramatic food and water shortage, and a number of other reasons such as energy depleaton, global warming, shortage of arable land and living space generally, all being caused by population explosion on a finite Earth.
The site: Foundation.bw and http has a lot written about the subject. One Heading is
‘On War and Peace ‘ Another ‘The Party’s Over’
There are several headings dealing with Population Growth .
These a big issues, all of them, and we humans seem to have so many other less important issues on our minds just now.
Perhaps it is all just the way the Earth is, and we can’t blame ourselves too much about that, or our inborn avarise and greed ?
You will never guess what was parked in one of those spots. A Cable & Wireless van.
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Possibly he got carried away with the phone lines being ‘disabled’ thus the reason for his overlooking the true meanings of the allocated space. Shame on you Mr. C & W driver.
I see the news reporting that the Republican VP candidate, Palin, has spurrilously attacked Democratic Canadidate Barack Obama, for an alleged association with a former anti-war radical, Ayers.
Apparently an acquaitance rather than any close ally, how does this compare to the reported and well-known direct funding of the extremist groups, in the 1980′s and 1990′s by the US secret services, against the Soviets in Afghanistan.
As we know, these groups subsequently turned on the West, to the extent that the US is in an indefinite but unwinnable confrontation in Afghanistan?
Will Palin also rebuke George Bush senior, for heading one of the secret service organisations at the time that these decisions were made?
Indeed, did the news also report that the Bush and Bin Laden families were close pre the confrontations?
Is Sarah Palin not spurrilously throwing stones out of a glass house, indeed from a very weak position?
The question must also arise, that instead of pointing at the Bush administration for bringing the US economy to its knees by spending so much on foreign wars, the Republican VP candidate is creating a red herring, as she has neither the goruns nor the capacity to challenge the Democrats on realistic grounds?
Will America vote for truth and the good of the nation, that the Democrats represent, or will America vote for more spin, bigotry and problems, under the Republicans?
Certainly, both Palin and McCain have demonstrated that they will follow a path of international confrontation, which can only lead to war.
Will America vote for allowing its youths to the vile fate of war by the hands of the Republicans, or will America vote for health services, education and peace, by the actions of a truly patriotic Democratic leadership?
Time will tell.
Peace.
My post (in moderation), paragraph should read ”as she has neither the grounds”
I see in today’s news that the PM has asked bajans to act as we are, a water scarce country.
My question is, on this blog over the past number of years, at least two, we, and especially blpgger John, have made that point and asked when new reservoirs and desal plants would be built by Government.
The new administration thus had ample notice to plan for implementation on assuming office.
What is the status of any new plans.
Talk without proactive action by Government means little.
Agreed, Government cannot do everything, but there are some significant infrastructural matters, such as reservoirs, that are the direct responsibility of Government.
i sick of ALL these governments who just yap, yap, yap, Almost everytime I plant, somebody reaps my crop. I started to keep black belly sheep, as soon as one gets big,especially the rams, tief. I’m still fighting on to keep my family going. I want to apply for a piece of rab land for my only child to build on. I’m told that the land is agricultural land and the application would be denied.Am I suppose to continue planting for the tiefs while them looking to buy a piece of land from COW who incedentally is developing BEAUTIFUL agricultural land less than 100 yds away from me. If I illiminate one of them tiefs from in my land, then I would have to pay one of these tiefing lawyers to beg for me not to get lifetime in jail. What kind of stinking country this is that I’m living in?
Advocate, front page. 5th Oct/2008
Wind shift: BL&P, asked for additional info to be supplied to the Environmental Impact Assessment of the BL&P’s proposed $20 mil wind farm in St Lucy.
Commendable of the Town and Country planning. They want to find out more about
( besides other things) the project’s IMPACT
on the bird and bat population.
How lovely, indeed. There are seveal other locations in this island, where, the Town and Country Planning should investigate first, about bird and bat population destruction, though mainly it is bird attrition in great numbers, especially when there is a weather system over us.
As for a wind farm being serious potential for the destruction of birds and bats, there is little
to be said for it on the net, if one wishes to investigate across the world. Wind turbines don’t turn at very higth speed. Bats have superb accoustic systems, warning them far in advance of any fast moving object in their path. It is not easy to take down a Barbadian bat, even with a shotgun( or even if you are a fast -flying migratory falcon, witnessed ), when one has become bored of waiting for birds in late evening or early morning, and one has become even more irresolute towards nature than normal.
i hope that the by the time the occupational health and safety bill is passed companies like the nation newspaper will be able to explain the ammount of injuries that happened in a four year period 2002 to 2006
We’ll still pray, fervently, for Obama, and that he will bring change. There must be change !
Colin:
Although I agree there must be a change from the disastrous policies of the past eight years, I am still waiting for these changed policies to be fleshed out.
Happily he is willing to talk with Ahminejad , that is if the Israelis don’t nuke him in the interim, but the rest of his policies have been kept well under wraps.
I may have missed them, and everyone, so keen to see his victory, may have embraced each and every change of direction.
In which case I will stand corrected, but until then I still consider Obama to be an opportunist pig (no lipstick ) in a poke.
Straight Talk,
You have a good point, but, I don’t know, I think we should take a chance on Obama and his change, rather than see more of the same ‘ting’ again, under a man who though obviously a war hero and an American patriot in every true sense of the word, is too old and set in the old ways, to take on the heavy jamming that is the new order across the world, now taking place.
There is a new order, and it needs a new outlook. ‘The Old Order changeth, yeilding place to knew, and God fulfills himself in may ways, lest one good custom should corrupt the world. ‘ The words of the dying King Arthur. Tennison
Although I would welcome any change of direction in US policy, I’d still prefer voting for stated policies rather than mere change.
Obama will be gifted carte blanche, which he may need to have the flexibility to tackle the huge issues confronting him.
I still have concerns as to his true intentions and his actual promoters.
From nowhere to Messiah in 18 months brings out the cynic in me.
Straight Talk,
You have put your view superbly, and based it as it should be based, on hard core agenda.
My own view is based on feelings I find hard to deciper or explain. It is like looking at a piece of art that strikes and holds me. It will be interesting to know the results of this election, and then see what happens later on. Like in sports, quite a few amazing new stars are arrising almost overnight, from apparently nowhere, and jumping into first place. Is Obama one of those ?
I’m much more concerned about the Earth, Energy and Global warming. I’m not convinced McCain or Obama can really do much about those three things without causing the structure of civilisation to fall on its head.
So much new oil and gas is being found, so many new gas pipe lines are being built,….. it seems the only possible way to save Earth is a deep recession with all the human consequencies that would involve.
If there is another way, would somebody like to enlighten us how we should proceed, apart
from hoping for the coming of a new star from the East, heralding,….. Perhaps this time we won’t crucify him !
A carpenter has, in the past week, been charged by Police for, according to him, beating a potential burglar and robber.
Apparently, he administered a sound ‘lesson’ on the alleged robber.
If this is so, then this is a travesty of justice.
A man’s, or woman’s home is their private refuge after each long working day. What gives some scoundrel the right to invade and destroy this sanctity?
And yet, authorities see fit to charge this hard working man for allegedly defending his property?
Will this mean that anyone doing this in future will be deterred from reporting to the Police and instead just make sure that they are not seen nor heard defending what is theirs, maybe placing the person in another parish, denying ever seeing the person, to avoid being charged?
Or must the persons of a home, open the doors to any scoundrel and beg them to ‘please leave’?
Sorrrryyyyy…if I find someone in my hardearned home, I will expect that by being there, they are willing to injure me or my family and I will protect myself and my family as I see fit.
Who pays the bank loan on my home and my belongings?
Not the Police, not the lawyers and certainly not some scoundrel!!!
Lay off of this carpenter, if what he says is true!
Who was the guy in the dark suit shadowing the Prime Minister at the Remembrance Day Parade ? Why was he shadowing our leader secret service style? Why where they sniper-like lookouts from the clock tower at the parade as seen in todays nation newspaper? Why was MP2 trailed by an unmarked vehicle when the PM left the parade?
Have they been a credible threat again the Prime Minister? Have these enhanced security measures been used for former Prime Ministers? Why now?
Mark
Mark,
Your raise a good point. We live in a copy cat society, except for Spooge, which deserves much more merit than in gets. The dark shades, the loop of wire hanging out of one ear, the hard direct stone-like stare, are all part of the modern sales pitch pertaining to the so called security, costing the taxpayers more, certainly, but suppossedly enhancing the importance of the VIP beyond what they are truly worth.
It is all a stage, wherein, the players come and go, and some of us grow vegetables, to keep the whole show going.
Up until quite recently, our former P.M would walk around Barbados like most other P.M’s freely; the only exception being Tom Adams. I was shocked to see the display of security surrounding our present P.M. Was there some treat to his live that we’re unaware of? or is this an other Hartley Henry gesture, American Presidency style. Beware, please don’t draw too much attention, it might put the wrong thinking in someone’s mind.
Sir Bentwood – Isn’t it ‘innocent until proven guilty’? I know years ago a farmer in the UK shot a burglar, it was the farmer that ended up behind bars……
14 November 2008
As an American citizen living in a country not quite my own, I realize that my comments may be unwelcome to some… However, I hope that an “outside” perspective will be valued by those who love this country and would hold its media to a higher standard. I am compelled to comment on today’s edition of the Nation.
Upon opening my mailbox & unfolding the morning paper, I was saddened on several levels. Is it really necessary to print a full-sized photograph of this poor, dead accident victim – still pinned under a concrete pillar — on Page 1? My sympathies go to his family for their loss, as well as for the further insult of their loved one’s death exploited in such a manner.
Moral issues aside, is a single, unfortunate construction incident even front-page news? Gruesome photographs appeal to basest human curiosity, and thus sell more newspapers; However, this family and the people of Barbados would be better served by dedicating the front page to news items relevant to the majority.
Pay respects to the deceased as is proper. Report details of the accident as deemed prudent. However, in the absence of major national or world news, in between calamities and catastrophies, why not engender optimism in the people of Barbados? Beneath the headline “Cruise Wave,” a color photo of the ship against a backdrop of shining turquoise water would have been not only more apropos, but also a brighter start to everyone’s Friday!
one on American taxpayers
Gene Messick
OpEdNews
November 15, 2008
Our troubles with Hank started back when he was CEO at Goldman-$achs. Hank helped launch the masked bogus financial instruments called “derivatives” which are at the Heart of the Global Meltdown of Banks around our Planet.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Next, at the invitation of GwB, Hank skipped over to the US Treasury, where his months of failures to act made things worse. When the World Economy had festered to the point of near collapse– a week before Congress was to go home to hit the Campaign Trail – Hank laid a 3-page Bailout Plan before them, and said, “take it or leave it.” BTW, if you don’t take it – while you’re out of Washington — the World as you know it will collapse. There will be Rioting in the Streets of America, requiring us to declare Martial Law. Obediently, Congress swallowed Hank’s Bailout Pig, whole.
Now, barely a month later, Hank is telling us what he already knew from the beginning: that the $700,000,000,000 he got from Congress to Bailout distressed homeowner mortgages couldn’t be done soon enough to make any difference. That’s why, thus far, his Bailout Czar Neel Kaskari (also imported from Goldman-$achs) has NOT bought ONE SINGLE distressed mortgage.
Instead, Hank announced: I changed my mind. This money is only going to Bailout my buddies who are Bankers. After all, they have lost the most from all this. Sorry: no money for homeowners! But not to worry. Someday it will trickle-down, just like Ronnie Reagan and Uncle Miltie Friedman told us it would. We’re going to give the money to big banks to buy smaller banks, so they can become “too big to fail”. What Hank really means is that he hopes they will become “to big to regulate”.
When Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosie – who had filled Hank’s playpen with bales of cash – announced that Congress might take back some of Hank’s money to Bailout the nearly bankrupt US Auto Industry, Hank replied sharply, “NO! This is my pile. I swiped it. You approved it. It’s mine! Go get your own pile to play with from American taxpayers. They’re too dumb to care!”
Can any of us really track what is going on world wide, left and right. There seems much to much for one plate, one mind. Who has the power to hold us all together ? Who has the power to abate our barking, like a chorus of village dogs in the night ?
The USA Auto Industry and West Indian Airlines
The USA Auto Industry remind us of local airlines, LIAT and WI Airways. In the case of West Indian airlines, it was never a case of not enough passengers, because the aircraft flew full, but just poor administration and free over -usage by governmental big wigs and their families, amongst other things.
The USA car industry has had a grand fling for many, many years, and they hope to continue this big time, despite a dramatic dip into a recession, which, is just as much their own fault for not restructuring much earlier, due to extensive early warning signs on global warming, and the need for transport that can operate on very much less energy consumption.
West Indian citizens, for so many years, have been forced to fork out tax payers dollars by millions, yearly, to keep the West Indian airline industry afloat. Now the world is being asked to float the American Auto Industry, for much the same reasons.
We don’t see how, or why, a bailout will ever stop being needed. There is no other option than to change the ball game, and like the Phoenix, pick up the pieces and generate new sustainable stytems.
I think the time has come for us to thoroughly investigate the treatment of suspects by the Barbados Police Force. There is too much anecdotal evidence that something is amiss for us to ignore it. Are suspects routinely beaten while in custody? When will the long promised video-recorded interrogation rooms be set up? Why does it always seem that the police are above the law – they can break the speed limit at will, transgress traffic laws which they expect you to uphold, etc?
Question generally, have the ‘Merrymen’ ever been awarded a National Honour for their contribution to Barbadian music, culture and tourism?
If not as yet, it is high time that this honour is bestowed on this best all-time and long-standing music group in Barbados.
I reflected this week on hearing music of theirs as to how long and sustained their contribution has been and it is substantial.
Peace & Live Strong
Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Senator James Inhofe has revealed that Henry Paulson was behind the threats of martial law and a new great depression prior to the passage of the bailout bill, having made such warnings during a conference call on September 19th, around two weeks before the legislation was eventually approved by both the Senate and Congress.
As we reported at the time, on October 2, Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman gave a stunning speech on the House floor during which he decried the fact that, “Many of us were told in private conversations that if we voted against this bill on Monday that the sky would fall, the market would drop two or three thousand points the first day, another couple of thousand the second day, and a few members were even told that there would be martial law in America if we voted no.”
A few days before, Rep. Michael Burgess also told the House, “Mr. Speaker I understand we are under Martial Law as declared by the speaker last night,” referring to a temporary suspension of the rules and procedures of Congress by its leaders so that a bill can be passed quickly.
But the origin of the most dire warnings about physical martial law in America, to which Sherman was likely referring, has now been exposed.
(ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW)
Speaking on Tulsa Oklahoma’s 1170 KFAQ, when asked who was behind threats of martial law and civil unrest if the bailout bill failed, Senator James Inhofe named Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson as the source.
“Somebody in D.C. was feeding you guys quite a story prior to the bailout, a story that if we didn’t do this we were going to see something on the scale of the depression, there were people talking about martial law being instituted, civil unrest….who was feeding you guys this stuff?,” asked host Pat Campbell.
“That’s Henry Paulson,” responded Inhofe, “We had a conference call early on, it was on a Friday I think – a week and half before the vote on Oct. 1. So it would have been the middle … what was it – the 19th of September, we had a conference call. In this conference call – and I guess there’s no reason for me not to repeat what he said, but he said – he painted this picture you just described. He said, ‘This is serious. This is the most serious thing that we faced.’”
Inhofe said that Paulson told members of Congress the crisis would be “far worse than the great depression” if Congress didn’t authorize the bill to buy out toxic debt, a proposal “which he abandoned the day after he got the money,” added Inhofe.
Inhofe is referring to the controversy last week when it emerged that the bailout money was not going to buy up toxic debt but instead Paulson, the former CEO of Goldman Sachs, had pulled a bait and switch and ordered the money be injected directly into banks.
Senator Inhofe has slammed the secrecy surrounding the destination of the bailout money, saying that Hank Paulson could have given it to his friends and that the “blank check” must be cancelled now.
Inhofe is now trying to rally support for a freeze on what’s left of the initial $350 billion of bailout money with his “roll back the bailout” proposal, which will also require an affirmative vote on the part of Congress to approve Treasury’s plan for the remaining $350 billion.
Watch the clip from Inhofe’s interview below.
Bush Hands Over Reins of U.S. Economy to EU
Dick Morris & Eileen McGann
NewsMax
November 21, 2008
The results of the G-20 economic summit amount to nothing less than the seamless integration of the United States into the European economy.
In one month of legislation and one diplomatic meeting, the United States has unilaterally abdicated all the gains for the concept of free markets won by the Reagan administration and surrendered, in total, to the Western European model of socialism, stagnation, and excessive government regulation.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Sovereignty is out the window. Without a vote, we are suddenly members of the European Union. Given the dismal record of those nations at creating jobs and sustaining growth, merging with the Europeans is like a partnership with death.
At the G-20 meeting, Bush agreed to subject the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and our other regulatory agencies to the supervision of a global entity that would critique its regulatory standards and demand changes if it felt they were necessary. Bush agreed to create a College of Supervisors.
According to The Washington Post, it would “examine the books of major financial institutions that operate across national borders so regulators could begin to have a more complete picture of banks’ operations.”
Their scrutiny would extend to hedge funds and to various “exotic” financial instruments. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), a European-dominated operation, would conduct “regular vigorous reviews” of American financial institutions and practices.
The European-dominated College of Supervisors would also weigh in on issues like executive compensation and investment practices.
There is nothing wrong with the substance of this regulation.
The recent Al Qaeda statement clearly exhibits their recognition of what Obama stands for and the danger that he holds for militant groups.
Obama does not stand for racial divisiveness, but for unity of humanity, not for strife and indifference, but for peace and progress to well being.
Certainly, Obama himself seems to have made his intentions clear and all world peaders have accepted this change with eagerness.
In addition, people are ‘taken’ with Obama and his ideas, people worldwide. His winning of ‘hearts and minds’ without yet being in the White House is a major threat to enemies of the West and the USA in particular.
The change will being not only hope to the USA and the World but more firends to the USA, hence this change is itself a blow to Al Qaeda.
The statement indicates that the leaders of that group realise the implications of this change and it is vexing them.
Now, more than ever, we must give our support to the ideas of this new USA leader and work towards progress and peace, where necessary working against those who would prevent these ideals from seeding into a more peaceful world.
Peace & Live Strong.
How come there is no comment on the happenings at the Central Bank, has the Barbados Freepress become afraid to speak on the subject?
Questions should be asked:
1.How does a vault attendant get to steal money/ies from the bank?
2.Are there no checks and balances?
3.Should these checks and balances not be “checked”by a senior member of the bank?
4.Why is the Govenor still at the bank when it been ascertained the allege theft has been going on since 2006?
Come on freepress lets get some discussion going on the subject.
******************
BFP says,
Oh yes, we’re very AFRAID to mention the heist. Yes… trembling in our boots.
If you want an article you can ask for it you know. You don’t have to get silly. Us, afraid to mention something in an article? Are you nuts? Can’t you see the picture of the Finance Minister dressed as a prostitute?
Oh ya… we be very frightened! LOL
Heard the one about the messenger, carpenter and a barman….?
@lazybones
Why is the Govenor still at the bank when it been ascertained the allege theft has been going on since 2006?
*************************************************
If “lazybones” or anyone else for that matter thinks that any senior officer at the Central Bank will be disciplined over the small potatoes of over a million bucks going AWOL, I will like to inform them that I have some West Coast beachfront land to sell to them at a real cheap price. Just make your cheque payable to “Old Generation Bajan” and forward it to me C/O BFP.
Exactly how is Barbados preparing for the upcoming depression. What do we produce in Barbados, is it a necessity for other ppl around the world?.. Do tourists have to come to Barbados?… How will we survive when President Elect Obama decides to impose fines and levies on the offshore industry that has created employment opportunities for bajans? … how high will unemployment get in Barbados?… are we prepared for a 21st century economy?…
Is a real estate bust coming to Barbados?… Asset inflation is not a good thing.
How much money does the Barbados Government have invested in the American stock market other than Lehman Brothers (well Trinidad had some monies there)…
The only sound money in the world is GOLD. And when the American dollar tanks, so will the Barbados dollar and so will the Barbados economy.
Sorry to post only gloom but I don’t see anything great coming to our nation other than more taxes on the backs of this and the next generation. When we pay more in taxes than we get for pay is when people will wake up and look for the political goons who stole it and the police won’t save them and neither will the courts. Only the dummies who consider democracy will stand up to defend them but hopefully they will be in the minority if not, God save us all because it will then be true of democracy that only death and taxes are inherent to life.
The average length for any democracy since the start of time (as humans know it) is 200 years and sorry to say it but I think that time is now approaching the end.
Eve of Destruction: How the Financial Crisis Was Built Into the System
Robert Kiyosaki
Yahoo Finance
November 25, 2008
How did we get into the current financial mess? Great question.
Turmoil in the Making
In 1910, seven men held a secret meeting on Jekyll Island off the coast of Georgia. It’s estimated that those seven men represented one-sixth of the world’s wealth. Six were Americans representing J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, and the U.S. government. One was a European representing the Rothschilds and Warburgs.
In 1913, the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank was created as a direct result of that secret meeting. Interestingly, the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank isn’t federal, there are no reserves, and it’s not a bank. Those seven men, some American and some European, created this new entity, commonly referred to as the Fed, to take control of the banking system and the money supply of the United States.
In 1944, a meeting in Bretton Woods, N.H., led to the creation of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. While the stated purposes for the two new organizations initially sounded admirable, the IMF and the World Bank were created to do to the world what the Federal Reserve Bank does to the United States.
In 1971, President Richard Nixon signed an executive order declaring that the United States no longer had to redeem its paper dollars for gold. With that, the first phase of the takeover of the world banking system and money supply was complete.
In 2008, the world is in economic turmoil. The rich are getting richer, but most people are becoming poorer. Much of this turmoil is directly related to those meetings that took place decades ago. In other words, much of this turmoil is by design.
How come in every part of the world where there is so called democracy there are just 2 major parties who switch leadership each election period.
Think about it people.
Our local Central Bank is linked to the Federal Reserve
Can you image the utter stupidity of a DLP Government that would use it large majority in Parliament to change the law just to allow itself to borrow $1.5 billion more than it could have last week?
The bottom line is, the money will be used by the DLP to pay for buildings that were built through Build Operate Lease and Transfer – arrangements. This is: “change for the worst” and “change that does not make sense.”
The point is – you cannot put the prison, the Coast Guard Station of the new Judicial Centre on a plane or a ship and take them out of Barbados.
The reason Governments use BOLT arrangements are to avoid them having to hurt their heads looking for money to construct or maintain an asset over an agreed period. Government does not own the risk or the liability.
If an earthquake destroys the building, Government does not loose anything.
Government pays for the building or asset by lease or pays an agreed amount every year. A BOLT arrangement is therefore an organized form of what the same DLP is now doing as regards people who have been living in those NHC Units for 20 years.
Tenants are not getting those units free because the rent they have paid over that 20-year period (user fee) is equivalent to the cost of the asset or the unit they will eventually get.
Similarly, in the case of government, it will pay an amount, say $15m ever year for 25 years, instead of having to pay, say $200 million up front.
When you owe money on your credit card, you do not pay it all at once, do you?
Essentially, therefore – the DLP is causing Barbadians unnecessary pain just to please the IMF, which does not like BOLT arrangements.
The DLP is taking close to a billion dollars of your money to pay for things now that can be paid for over a 25 year period.
The Rt. Excellent Mr. Errol Barbados has always been of the view that people who benefit from something (an asset) should contribute to paying for it. That is called a user fee. So much for the modern-day DLP being on the side of the people!
The result of David Thompson’s action is that the debt to GDP ratio will increase significantly, meaning that it will be a lot more expensive for Barbados – if it goes to the market to borrow, especially since this country’s rating will be adjusted significantly downward by Rating Agencies.
The DLP really does not know what it is doing! What a national disgrace!
@ Eye95
who wrote “When you owe money on your credit card, you do not pay it all at once, do you?”
Yes I do. I maintain a zero monthly balance on my credit card to avoid fees and interest.
eye95 can you explain why I should keep a balance on a credit card and pay interest and fees? Your wisdom and counsel would be appreciated.
Should I also sell my house and rent it back in case it gets destroyed by an earthquake?
According to you I seem to be misguided with the notion that owning property is good and leasing or renting is bad.
Hants,
You are of course correct that the optimum way of using a credit card is to maintain a zero monthly balance to avoid and interest. Most credit card companies, however, charge an annual fee and maintaining a zero monthly balance unfortunately does not get you out of that.
In your response to Eye95, you are guilty of using the debating tactic of zeroing in on the one weak point in an argument in an attempt to use it to discredit the entire argument, while ignoring the substance of the argument, essentially that the present administration does not appear to understand the concept of BOLT projects.
I heard the Prime Minister in an address to Parliament on Tuesday 25th railing against the former administration’s BOLT projects, particularly the new judicial complex, in a way that was quite frankly embarrassing and only served to support the generalized suspicion that he doesn’t know what he is doing. I fear the Prime Minister is still living in 1991 and needs to get up to speed on modern methods of Government financing of capital projects.
DLP, ‘Keeping committments’:
Among the things that the DLP has done to date to fulfill the committment that it made to the voters on January 15, is now to build another 2000 homes in St.Philip, by land acquisition noted today in the Dailt Nation.
Certainly part of its mandate, this will encourage Barbadians that Government is intending to fulfill its obligations.
Some things, such as housing solutions are being done now, that should have been done years ago, but the previous administration appears to have been more concerned with enabling large private developers to make money building villas, condos, etc on large tracts of precious land, under the guise of building a foreign ownership industry, which was clearly dispayed as a guise only, by the complete lack of balance in not supplying any housing solutions for local ownership.
Certainly, something had to be done to prevent this wholesale land and money grab that took place over the last few years.
While development may now take place, at least some balance will be brought by the provision of housing to locals also.
Another very good step, the move of schoolchildren away from the bad influence of the minibus culture, showed that this DLP Administration and Thompson in particular, is willing to make decisions that make them unpopular in the eyes of a few, in order to ensure that our nation is safeguarded form deviant influences.
Certainly, that this was not done years ago is a mystery, some may go into allegations of who profited from these ventures, but I will leave that alone.
Encouraging that this adminstration is willing to make difficult decisions, for what good is a leader who cannot make decisions, who cannot lead?
By this, you can see that election allegations that Thompson did not ‘have it’ to lead, were fabrications of the election machine, aimed to smear, rather than provide constructive thought.
Now, I am hoping to see some analysis of previous projects, including publication of detailed financial statements for the GEMS projects, from inception.
I recognise that it may take some months to have the analysis and statements prepared and audited, but I think it is necessary, to know where taxpayers funds went and to learn what not to do in future.
Thus far, Thompson and his team has shown a level of accountability to Barbadians that had been disgarded by the previous administration, in favour of authoritarian practice.
This must continue, not only because of the committment made on January 15, 2008, not only for their own self-respect as people, leaders and guardians of our fate, but for the good of Barbados and all Barbadians.
The need for this accountability is being demonstrated internationally, and is being demanded by the people, not only from Governments in the USA and Britain, but is now also being demanded by the people, from the directors CEO’s of public and private organisations.
Winds of change have blown, these winds have shifted the landscape, not to easily return to rampant self-profit and greed, but to improve the socio-economic rules to seek a more stable and indeed just, status.
Hope, my friends.
And, faith in the Almighty.
Peace & Live Strong.
Commiserations to our brethren in India on this awful day of the violence against the normally peaceful people of India.
We must all work against violence and not let a few malcontents spread the seed of vitriol.
Peace to you people of India and especially those affected in Mumbai.
Peace & Live Strong.
Here is one for you Hants and Runflethinskin,
One could not help hearing Housing Minister Michael Lashley bellyaching last weekend about what, according to him – the former administration did not do.
It would be pleasing if only it were true that from now on, the DLP will be building “perfect houses.”
I note that the Minister will be establishing “housing police” or a Committee to “look back” at BLP projects.
One would think that the housing police being contemplated by Minister Lashley will be mandated to investigate and prosecute his Ministry for its failings and broken promises.
After all, like the party to which he belongs, the Minister is an impediment to Barbadians because he does not know what he is doing and is therefore unable to show results.
The simple truth is, if ever there was a Minister who epitomizes and continues to highlight failure, it is the Minister of Housing.
The frequency with which he appears in the press, will only serve to remind Barbadians and emphasise the fact that his Ministry will not deliver on the 2000 houses it promised to build by December 31st, 2008.
What say ye Hants!
From Kennedy to Obama: Liberalism’s last fling
29 May 2008
Writing in the New Statesman, John Pilger refers back to his travels with Robert Kennedy to describe the false hopes offered by those, like Barack Obama, who exploit the appeal of liberalism then present a very different reality.
In this season of 1968 nostalgia, one anniversary illuminates today. It is the rise and fall of Robert Kennedy, who would have been elected president of the United States had he not been assassinated in June 1968. Having travelled with Kennedy up to the moment of his shooting at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles on 5 June, I heard The Speech many times. He would “return government to the people” and bestow “dignity and justice” on the oppressed. “As Bernard Shaw once said,” he would say, “‘Most men look at things as they are and wonder why. I dream of things that never were and ask: Why not?’” That was the signal to run back to the bus. It was fun until a hail of bullets passed over our shoulders.
Kennedy’s campaign is a model for Barack Obama. Like Obama, he was a senator with no achievements to his name. Like Obama, he raised the expectations of young people and minorities. Like Obama, he promised to end an unpopular war, not because he opposed the war’s conquest of other people’s land and resources, but because it was “unwinnable”.
Should Obama beat John McCain to the White House in November, it will be liberalism’s last fling. In the United States and Britain, liberalism as a war-making, divisive ideology is once again being used to destroy liberalism as a reality. A great many people understand this, as the hatred of Blair and new Labour attest, but many are disoriented and eager for “leadership” and basic social democracy. In the US, where unrelenting propaganda about American democratic uniqueness disguises a corporate system based on extremes of wealth and privilege, liberalism as expressed through the Democratic Party has played a crucial, compliant role.
In 1968, Robert Kennedy sought to rescue the party and his own ambitions from the threat of real change that came from an alliance of the civil rights campaign and the anti-war movement then commanding the streets of the main cities, and which Martin Luther King had drawn together until he was assassinated in April that year. Kennedy had supported the war in Vietnam and continued to support it in private, but this was skilfully suppressed as he competed against the maverick Eugene McCarthy, whose surprise win in the New Hampshire primary on an anti-war ticket had forced President Lyndon Johnson to abandon the idea of another term. Using the memory of his martyred brother, Kennedy assiduously exploited the electoral power of delusion among people hungry for politics that represented them, not the rich.
“These people love you,” I said to him as we left Calexico, California, where the immigrant population lived in abject poverty and people came like a great wave and swept him out of his car, his hands fastened to their lips.
“Yes, yes, sure they love me,” he replied. “I love them!” I asked him how exactly he would lift them out of poverty: just what was his political philosophy?
“Philosophy? Well, it’s based on a faith in this country and I believe that many Americans have lost this faith and I want to give it back to them, because we are the last and the best hope of the world, as Thomas Jefferson said.”
“That’s what you say in your speech. Surely the question is: How?”
“How?… by charting a new direction for America.”
The vacuities are familiar. Obama is his echo. Like Kennedy, Obama may well “chart a new direction for America” in specious, media-honed language, but in reality he will secure, like every president, the best damned democracy money can buy.
As their contest for the White House draws closer, watch how, regardless of the inevitable personal smears, Obama and McCain draw nearer to each other. They already concur on America’s divine right to control all before it. “We lead the world in battling immediate evils and promoting the ultimate good,” said Obama. “We must lead by building a 21st-century military… to advance the security of all people [emphasis added].” McCain agrees. Obama says in pursuing “terrorists” he would attack Pakistan. McCain wouldn’t quarrel. Both candidates have paid ritual obeisance to the regime in Tel Aviv, unquestioning support for which defines all presidential ambition. In opposing a UN Security Council resolution implying criticism of Israel’s starvation of the people of Gaza, Obama was ahead of both McCain and Hillary Clinton. In January, pressured by the Israel lobby, he massaged a statement that “nobody has suffered more than the Palestinian people” to now read: “Nobody has suffered more than the Palestinian people from the failure of the Palestinian leadership to recognise Israel [emphasis added].” Such is his concern for the victims of the longest, illegal military occupation of modern times. Like all the candidates, Obama has furthered Israeli/Bush fictions about Iran, whose regime, he says absurdly, “is a threat to all of us”.
On the war in Iraq, Obama the dove and McCain the hawk are almost united. McCain now says he wants US troops to leave in five years (instead of “100 years”, his earlier option). Obama has now “reserved the right” to change his pledge to get troops out next year. “I will listen to our commanders on the ground,” he now says, echoing Bush. His adviser on Iraq, Colin Kahl, says the US should maintain up to 80,000 troops in Iraq until 2010. Like McCain, Obama has voted repeatedly in the Senate to support Bush’s demands for funding of the occupation of Iraq; and he has called for more troops to be sent to Afghanistan. His senior advisers embrace McCain’s proposal for an aggressive “league of democracies”, led by the United States, to circumvent the United Nations. Like McCain, he would extend the crippling embargo on Cuba.
Amusingly, both have denounced their “preachers” for speaking out. Whereas McCain’s man of God praised Hitler, in the fashion of lunatic white holy-rollers, Obama’s man, Jeremiah Wright, spoke an embarrassing truth. He said that the attacks of 11 September 2001 had taken place as a consequence of the violence of US power across the world. The media demanded that Obama disown Wright and swear an oath of loyalty to the Bush lie that “terrorists attacked America because they hate our freedoms”. So he did. The conflict in the Middle East, said Obama, was rooted not “primarily in the actions of stalwart allies like Israel”, but in “the perverse and hateful ideologies of radical Islam”. Journalists applauded. Islamophobia is a liberal speciality.
The American media love both Obama and McCain. Reminiscent of mating calls by Guardian writers to Blair more than a decade ago, Jann Wenner, founder of the liberal Rolling Stone, wrote: “There is a sense of dignity, even majesty, about him, and underneath that ease lies a resolute discipline… Like Abraham Lincoln, Barack Obama challenges America to rise up, to do what so many of us long to do: to summon ‘the better angels of our nature’.” At the liberal New Republic, Charles Lane confessed: “I know it shouldn’t be happening, but it is. I’m falling for John McCain.” His colleague Michael Lewis had gone further. His feelings for McCain, he wrote, were like “the war that must occur inside a 14-year-old boy who discovers he is more sexually attracted to boys than to girls”.
The objects of these uncontrollable passions are as one in their support for America’s true deity, its corporate oligarchs. Despite claiming that his campaign wealth comes from small individual donors, Obama is backed by the biggest Wall Street firms: Goldman Sachs, UBS AG, Lehman Brothers, J P Morgan Chase, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Credit Suisse, as well as the huge hedge fund Citadel Investment Group. “Seven of the Obama campaign’s top 14 donors,” wrote the investigator Pam Martens, “consisted of officers and employees of the same Wall Street firms charged time and again with looting the public and newly implicated in originating and/or bundling fraudulently made mortgages.” A report by United for a Fair Economy, a non-profit group, estimates the total loss to poor Americans of colour who took out sub-prime loans as being between $164bn and $213bn: the greatest loss of wealth ever recorded for people of colour in the United States. “Washington lobbyists haven’t funded my campaign,” said Obama in January, “they won’t run my White House and they will not drown out the voices of working Americans when I am president.” According to files held by the Centre for Responsive Politics, the top five contributors to the Obama campaign are registered corporate lobbyists.
What is Obama’s attraction to big business? Precisely the same as Robert Kennedy’s. By offering a “new”, young and apparently progressive face of the Democratic Party – with the bonus of being a member of the black elite – he can blunt and divert real opposition. That was Colin Powell’s role as Bush’s secretary of state. An Obama victory will bring intense pressure on the US anti-war and social justice movements to accept a Democratic administration for all its faults. If that happens, domestic resistance to rapacious America will fall silent.
America’s war on Iran has already begun. In December, Bush secretly authorised support for two guerrilla armies inside Iran, one of which, the military arm of Mujahedin-e Khalq, is described by the state department as terrorist. The US is also engaged in attacks or subversion against Somalia, Lebanon, Syria, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Bolivia and Venezuela. A new military command, Africom, is being set up to fight proxy wars for control of Africa’s oil and other riches. With US missiles soon to be stationed provocatively on Russia’s borders, the Cold War is back. None of these piracies and dangers has raised a whisper in the presidential campaign, not least from its great liberal hope.
Moreover, none of the candidates represents so-called mainstream America. In poll after poll, voters make clear that they want the normal decencies of jobs, proper housing and health care. They want their troops out of Iraq and the Israelis to live in peace with their Palestinian neighbours. This is a remarkable testimony, given the daily brainwashing of ordinary Americans in almost everything they watch and read.
On this side of the Atlantic, a deeply cynical electorate watches British liberalism’s equivalent last fling. Most of the “philosophy” of new Labour was borrowed wholesale from the US. Bill Clinton and Tony Blair were interchangeable. Both were hostile to traditionalists in their parties who might question the corporate-speak of their class-based economic policies and their relish for colonial conquests. Now the British find themselves spectators to the rise of new Tory, distinguishable from Blair’s new Labour only in the personality of its leader, a former corporate public relations man who presents himself as Tonier than thou. We all deserve better.
Planet Has Cooled – Gore Admits ‘I’ve failed badly’ – Global Sea Ice Grows
By EPW Blog Thursday, November 20, 2008
Washington DC – The bad news for global warming alarmists just keeps rolling in. Below is a very small sampling of very inconvenient developments for Gore, the United Nations, and the mainstream media. Peer-reviewed studies, analyses, and prominent scientists continue to speak out to refute climate fears. The majority of data presented below is from just the past few weeks. Also see: U.S. Senate Minority Report: “Over 400 Prominent Scientists (and rapidly growing) Disputed Man-Made Global Warming Claims in 2007” & ‘Consensus’ On Man-Made Global Warming Collapses in 2008 – July 18, 2008 & An August 2007 report detailed how proponents of man-made global warming fears enjoy a monumental funding advantage over skeptical scientists. LINK
Bush The Cooler: ‘Planet has cooled since Bush took office’
November 12, 2008
Excerpt: On this symbolic date, it seems worthwhile to reflect that the planet has not only cooled since George W. Bush took office – pause and let the significance of that one sink in – but began to chill significantly at almost precisely the moment that we signed the Kyoto Protocol, exactly ten years ago today.
NOAA: U.S. on track for coolest year since 1997
November 12, 2008
Excerpt: The calendar year isn’t exactly over yet, but the people who watch such things — namely the National Climatic Data Center — are reporting that through its first 10 months 2008 is shaping up to be the coolest year in the United States since 1997.
‘The Great Global Warming Blunder: How Mother Nature Fooled the World’s Top Climate Scientists’
By Atmospheric Scientist Dr. Roy W. Spencer, formerly a senior scientist for climate studies at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center where he received NASA’s Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal, and currently principal research scientist at the University of Alabama in Huntsville)
Excerpt: New papers Debunk Warming Fears: The first paper showed how none of 18 IPCC climate models, in over 1,000 years of global warming simulations, ever exhibits the negative feedback we have measured from global satellite data. The second paper revealed new satellite evidence that the Pacific Decadal Oscillation modulates the Earth’s radiative balance by an amount that, when put into a simple climate model, can explain 75% of global warming over the 20th Century….including the slight cooling between 1940 and 1980. Since our previous publications have been basically censored by the news media, and I have now experienced scientific censorship (which I suppose was long overdue), I have decided to take my message to the people in a second book. In anticipation of trouble getting these papers published, I had already started the book awhile back…it is now about 80% finished, heavily illustrated. The working title is: The Great Global Warming Blunder: How Mother Nature Fooled the World’s Top Climate Scientists. My book agent is currently scouting for publishers.
UK Astrophysicist: Global Warming Theory has ‘failed consistently and dramatically’
October 28, 2008 – By Astrophysicist Piers Corbyn, founder of the UK based long-term solar forecast group Weather Action and creator of the solar-particle based “Solar Weather Technique” of long range weather forecasting.
Excerpt: Global Warming is over and Global Warming Theory has failed. There is no evidence that CO2 drives world temperatures or any consequent Climate Change. According to Official data in every year since 1998 world Temperatures have been colder than that year yet CO2 has been rising rapidly. The rate of decline of world temperature has got more rapid since 2002; and Arctic ice has increased in the last year : ( Including maps of ice extent: Arctic ice increasing rapidly also see Increase by nearly a half million square miles) The UN IPCC predictions from 2000 have failed consistently and dramatically.
Global Sea Ice Growing at Fastest Pace on Record—Returns to Levels from the 1980s
Daily Tech – November 7, 2008
Excerpt: An abnormally cool Arctic is seeing dramatic changes to ice levels. In sharp contrast to the rapid melting seen last year, the amount of global sea ice has rebounded sharply and is now growing rapidly. The total amount of ice, which set a record low value last year, grew in October at the fastest pace since record-keeping began in 1979.
Report: Global sea ice area: now same as in 1979! – ‘Fastest move in the 30 year history’
Arctic Sea Ice Extent: In October 2008, Fastest Ever Growth
Gore warns world may face civilization ‘collapse’
November 19, 2008
Gore Excerpt: A new study suggests the Mayan civilization might have collapsed due to environmental disasters. […] As we move towards solving the climate crisis, we need to remember the consequences to civilizations that refused to take environmental concerns seriously.
Gore laments global warming efforts: ‘I’ve failed badly’
Washington Post – November 11, 2008
Excerpt: When asked about the goal of his movie “An Inconvenient Truth”–to wake people up to an approaching global, environmental crisis-Gore said “I think it’s been a failure . . . I feel, in a sense, that I’ve failed badly.”
Skeptical UK scientist mocks Gore’s Nobel: ‘There’s no accounting for human folly’ – November 19, 2008 (By Physicist Freeman Dyson, Professor Emeritus of Physics at the Institute for Advanced Study, in Princeton, is a fellow of the American Physical Society, a member of the US National Academy of Sciences, and a fellow of the Royal Society of London.)
Excerpt: Mr. Dyson had an argument anyway with the scores of people (like Al Gore) who weren’t present to defend their belief in the dire consequences of global warming. (“There’s no accounting for human folly,” Mr. Dyson said when asked about Mr. Gore’s Nobel Prize.)
Right now we are seeing the last days playing out. We have the two beast of Revelation. The first one being the Roman empire with its 10 divided kingdoms of europe of which 3 have been destroyed over time.
Look at the Revelation of Daniel where you will see the 10 toes of the image in Nebcanezzar’s dream. The first beast is the Roman empire with its head beast state, the Little Horn of revelation, the Vatican. These 10 toes represent the 10 divided Kingdoms of Rome of which 3 have been destroyed because they would not go along with the Roman Empire (Daniel 7:8). Those destroyed are the Heruli(A.D 493), Vandals(A.D.534) and the Ostrogoths(A.D. 538). The 7 remaining are the Visigoths(Spain), Anglo-Saxons(England), Franks(France), Alemani(Germany), Burgundians(Switzerland), Lombards (Italy), Suevi(Portugal).
The second beast is the system of the United States. We are closer to the coming of Jesus Christ than you think folks, don’t believe for once that Obama will save the world because he is part of the same oppressive system which the USA has built up over the years. In other words he is just carrying out the mandate of what is called the New World Order or the Illuminati. Folks, don’t be mesmerized or fooled, keep your thinking caps on and look at the signs of the times. Get your house in order and turn your lives over to Jesus Christ. Accept him as your personal savior and then take it from there.
Dogbitemuh, although people have now come to accept that a crisis is upon the world, many still hope or believe that it is merely a recession that will be over in a few years.
This is not the case, this is a massive restructuring of world economies, such that things will be permanently changed.
We in Barbados are lucky we do not have to worry about winter heating etc. We do need to ensure food security and fuel security, for manufacturing and daily life, however.
In the Northern countries, heating costs will be a noghmare for many, especially those who have lost jobs.
We need to get used to the ideals of simple living again, steer away from expansive spending, brand names stuff etc.
That is no longer supportable, let alone justifiable or needed.
Times have changed and the sooner people realise it , the better.
Funnily enough, or not so funny, even the officials in the OCED etc, as Minister Sinckler notified a few weeks ago, are still focusing on old news, in trying to change the tax status of these islands to their favour.
These governments or advisors have no clue that they have greater prioities to address in their own backyards, their economies are falling apart.
Virulent greed and manipulation has blinded them to their own problems, maybe even when it is already too late.
By above ”These governments or advisors ” I mean the Governments of the OECD.
dogbitemuh
you seem to see Obama as the anti-Christ. Why? because he’s black? Is it that you see black as an evil race? I guess you were the author of the chorus I was taught in Sunday School my a white missionary quote ” my heart was BLACK with sin, till Jesus Christ came in, his precious blood I know has washed it WHITE as snow.” I hope you’re white because I would hate to think that blacks are still so brainwashed.
Dogbitemah,
One minute you call the name of Freeman Dyson ( who I greatly admire ) to your side over global warming, the next you cry of the coming ‘The end of time’.
Obviously, you are almost as confused as I am. Try the book by Jospeh Campbell ‘The Power Of Myth.” The book will enhance your faith, and also clearly explain so many other things we tend to get tied up with through near- blind adherance in our religions. I hope you will also read the introduction to the book, where Campbell says : ‘The new discoveries of science rejoin us to the ancients by enabling us to recognise in this whole universe a reflection magnified by our own most inward nature; so that we are indeed its ears, its eyes, its thinking, and its speach, or in theological terms, God’s ears, God’s eyes, God’s thinking, and God’s word. ‘
Paz. Sin Fin.
CLB:
Now the establishment climate gurus have been circumstantially forced to shift their focus and message from Anthropological Global Warming to the more catch-all Climate Change, do you think we need the courtesy of an apology, or will the lie have to persist to usher in the burgeoning carbon tax credit market?
Hello Scout,
I guess you will have to cry shame one me because I am black. I am just asking you to go do to some research. We have the internet. Dont believe everything you hear.
Hi Colin,
I consult the Holy Bible, but thanks for recommending the book. Bottom Line my friend, we are being lied to by or leaders and have been for years. There is no such thing as global warming. Actually we are in a cooling period so now guys like Gore are now saying climate change. They want us to support these lies saying that we humans are contributing to the change in climate because we are breathing carbon dioxide. What they want to do next is charge us with a carbon tax for breathing.
Guys, whether you believe me or not it will happen so you can attempt to dispel what I say has myth but very soon you will discover that the world we live in, is not as sweet as it seems.
Sir Bentwood Dick,
You are correct in your assessment. Trying looking at infowars website where you will discover even more about what is really happening in this world we live.
Oh and scout,
everything does not have to be reduced to race my friend. Just telling you the truth which is neither black or white.
I wonder if the members of the Royal Barbados Police Force are the house slaves of the rich and powerful in Barbados. Case in point: In the current construction at the arrival area of the Grantley Adams Airport a vehicle with Limited Trade Plates (Garage plates) is being used. This breach of the law is in plain site of numerous officers. Nothing is being done, yet they run down every poor nappy headed boy with a bicycle.
Well we knew what happend to the ho’ slaves when the sun went down.
Ah, Straight Talk, Al Fin,
This I know. St John temperatures this year, have followed last year’s low Novembers. Usually we did not see this drop till February, but last year the temps dropped in November and stayed low till around end March. Mid day today, in St John’e shade, was just 82, the reading off two murcury thermometers.
So it seems more like global cooling, possibly due to so much ‘bull’, reflecting back the sunlight into space. However, the recent documentaries on the North and South poles, and the deep core samples taken in those localities, etc, seem to indicate carbon dioxide is much higher than it ever has been; and there is a serious Poles ice melt -off going on.
My own feeling is that humans should hedge their bets, and cut back as much as possible on all forms of carbon burning,… por se encaso. But who is going to do such a thing, with new countries like Uganda, finding oil and gas they never knew about ? They want to swing big time too, and why not ?
CLB:
Being as CO2 constitutes less than 1% of greenhouse gases do you think we should be taxed upon our use of such a vital part of the carbon cycle?
Or credited for aiding the sustenance of flora?
When facts change, so do my opinions, what do yours do? … to paraphrase Keynes
ST,
I find myself ambivalent, constantly so. My own observations, for instance, are not showing me any rising sea levels in our islands, yet we are being told of islands in the pacific, sinking away. Can we be certain that those islands are not just suffering normal subsidence due to teutonic or volcanic shift ? Most of those Pacific islands are on volcanic ridges, peeking out of the sea. There are little islands off the south of Trinidad, that rise and submirge when they feel like it. One comes up covered in Fool’s Gold, another bubbles and belches H2S gas and stinks of rotten eggs.
To suggest Mankind is not contributing to
global alteration of the atmospere when we are chewing up 86 millions barrels of oil a day, one way or another, would be like saying we are not contributing to the ocean fish-out, or pollution of the oceans, when fish stocks are definitly getting short, and any beach you go on anywhere in the world, is showing you our man made plastic flotsom, on the sea’s lip.
So I’ll sustain my ambivalence, and wish I did not have to be so.
Dogbitemuh, It is good to have such faith. There is nothing else standable on.
The word ‘Myth’ has long been misunderstood. All religions are based on metaphor and myth. The same stories come up time and time again, and change lightly though still recognisable, depending on the time and place of the specific religion.
There is a door to which we find no key, a vail, past which we cannot see ( to borrow from Khayyam ). The Metaphors and Myths are agents assisting and pointing our way in the darkness , giving us a bridge to what is utterly beyond understanding. The human mind is incapable of any thruthful knowlege of the mystery. We only get, sometimes, if we are lucky, brilliant flashes; and they too are beyond words. That is the depth of the wonder.
Hi Colin,
Great to hear from you again. Seems we are starting a little back and forth thing here.
For those of us who believe in Jesus Christ and God the Father, there is a person called the Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth. True to say that we human beings in our own strength cannot fathom the great mysteries of the world but the Holy Spirit searches the heart and knows all mysteries and guides us into the light we must walk.
I believe that there are some religions that are myth even some within our Christian church who go out and mislead the people with alot of flawed teachings. However if you seek Christ with diligence he gives you the power of discernment so that when deceit comes we are aware. He is the only one who can forgive sins, change your heart and then your life.
Dogbitemuh,
Such discourse, given to each other out of friendship, is a good thing. It is just that we have very different view points and niether can be claimed as above or below(to use a Baje expression) the other.
I’ve just one question. Have you seriously read any other of the world’s great religions ?
A Myth, in the religious sense, is not an unthruth. It is a path given by a spiritual man( of any religion) that helps to explain in simplified metaphorical terms, something that is way beyond full human aprehension. Something, for that matter, that we do not even have a language for, though sanskrit possibly comes close.
Our intelligence is an earthbound intelligence. We have great difficulty in attempting to apreciate the distance of one light year, or the size of a sun 360 times our own, or our own sun’s size, or our own Earth’s size, or what is going on in Qauntum mechanics. For these things we have to resort to such things a Feynman diagrams, to give us a handle, or myth, or metaphore, on understanding.
In my own view, that is basically how all our understanding of just about everything, is fashioned. We are not privy to the face of absolute reality.
hi Colin,
I think I get where you are coming from but something else I must mention and I do agree that mans intelligence cannot stretch too far beyond this earth and I believe the reason for this is the fall of man at the time of Adam and Eve. I don’t think that right now it is necessary to be aware of all intelligence and so I go back to my faith in Christ, and I do know that when he returns for his people he will lead them into the knowledge of all intelligence.
Something else I must mention about this world. We are currently only shown one reality and this is by design. We are influenced by our environment, cultures ond other peoples cultures and take on that reality which becomes our existence, but there is another reality that is being hidden from us which the hierarchies and rulers of this earth do not want us to see because of their quest for one world government. Any attempt to bring people over to this reality is met with much resistance because people are more comfortable living the lie. Deception is very strong in this world and it is up to us to look behind the curtains and find the real truth. As the saying goes, without knowledge my people perish and this is the knowledge that Christ wants us to come into.
Dogbitemuh,
Your belief of ‘The Return’, is not something just in Christinity. Most religions hold such, just like they have their creation stories, their virgin births, and their Tamuz, who was the ancient Summerian prophet, born of a virgin, slain with a wound in his side, and risen from the dead after three days. The ressurection and the creation, are two of the oldest myths around, and religions have borrowed from each other and enhanced to suit. There is something very wonderful and abiding about such myths, they are bridges to enable us all to understand some measure of the irrefutable, the unspeakable, the unvisionable, Absolute, Brahmin, Jahova, The One that Is and Is Not, Jah, God, Yahweh, Allah, And The Sun God of the Aztecs and Romans, and so forth. It is helpful to know about other religions and trace them back into intiquity as far as you can go, and recognise their simularities, their myths and their metaphors.
Then read on modern science, and see how the shadows of the religions seem to join you even there, again, and again, in strange related ways that are hard to explain.
So you see there are other quests, other paths, and no one religion has dominance, or deserves it. But you are correct to choose your own undestandable way, provided it brings you happiness and tranquility. The Hindu holymen, find it in high cold Himalayan caves; others, in hot dusty deserts. Some, probably most, never find it at all. The real joy, strangely, is in the search. Navana, in actuality, may be a let down, for it is the journey’s end.
Sorry, I’ve dragged on.
Hi Colin,
I disagree with the many paths to the same source conversation. There is only one way and that is through Jesus Christ. One day We all will have to acknowledge this.
This “conversation” is most intriguing. A mind open to knowledge (CB) with one closed to anything which he has never heard of (DBM).
Juris and Dogbitemuh
Yesterday, I spelled ‘ Nivana’ wrong.
William James wrote a book called:
‘ The Varieties of Religous Experience ‘ (1902)
PC Happold also wrote such a book, dealing with the same subject. Happold’s book went further, as it is much more recent (1980 or so ) and so deals with such experiences from a wider range of religions.
The religious experience you might be lucky enough to receive, is changed by what particular outlook on faith you follow. The Hindu mystic will record a different statement than an Irish Nun, or an American Indian shamman, Haitian witch doctor, or a young girl at Lourdes, or Swirling Dervishes when they sink down in trance.
Different strokes for different,…. etc. Come to think of it, I woke early morning, and it struck that any specific scientific theory, is not much different to the construction of a metaphor. They both get tweeked and changed as they go along. But religions who tend to be dramatically dogmatic, have a hard time surviving today, just as would any scientific thoery.
Maybe one should not read or think too much, and Dogbitemuh is right !
CB, if you say we should not read or think too much, is that not a denial of the human capacity given by the Crerator….? A way to discover the truth?
Hush Jurist, lest we offend true believers !
We said, ‘Maybe one should not,…. ‘ etc.
At this moment we’re listening to Handel’s Messiah. ‘Unto us a child is born.’ It moves us just as much as Haitian art, or our own islands artist’s scenes of village life, or Monet’s works of silent willow tree -draped ponds of hiacinths, or the floating white form of an albatross almost within hand’s reach on the port wing of an ocean liner’s bridge deck, a girl playing an Indian sitar in late evening Himalayan haze, an old man climbing the steps of a Buddhist monestry, his right hand turning the prayer wheels along the side of the wall as he climbs, step by step, step by step.
We choose our own paths to follow, some may be very narrow and happily exact, others,… can compass the whole Universe, and still leave us puzzled. Yet there is joy in the puzzelment too.
Graeme Hall Swamp
During the most recent cycle of erosion at Sandy Beach, I refrained from asking: Who owns Worthing Beach now? It is about Graeme Hall Swamp and the adjacent marine environment that I write again.
With regard to recent press, explicit self-interest is readily dismissed. Sometimes blatant statements are far more insidious because readily missed! Take the Graeme Hall national park plan, for example. When we erase the “white elephants” decorating the edge of the plan, we are left with the stark reality. The entire plan, it seems evident, is to prevent sewerage from entering Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary. The plan describes the destruction of a large area of fresh water sedge habitat that waterbirds of many kinds rely on for feeding to be replaced with a “fishing lake” (sewerage catchment) that will be useless for birds. All this on the Government-owned east side of the wetland!
Further, the plan favours human recreation use over biotic conservation. Loss of foraging habitat and increased human disturbance will spell disaster for the ecological integrity of the wetland. The Ramsar Convention Status mandates “wise management.” The destruction of valuable wildlife habitat has no place near the category of wise management. Our Governments have been very wise to ignore this proposal. Unfortunately, some locals endorsed the idea of a national park at Graeme Hall Swamp without critical analysis or cross-examination of the plan.
Mr. Allard cites lack of Government interest in the plan as influencing his decision to close the Sanctuary. There are alternative explanatory hypotheses, but, again, I will refrain. Without doubt Graeme Hall Swamp requires a greater level of local protection. The wetland is internationally recognised by the Ramsar Convention as of global importance and most recently by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area.
I would not want anyone to “give” me a new “free” sluice gate to get tangled up in strings. However, a functioning sluice gate and provision to move sand blocking the gate are fundamental to the health of the swamp’s ecosystem and the adjacent marine environment. A Management Committee for Graeme Hall Swamp urgently requires reincarnation! An inter-disciplinary committee of informed, objective, dedicated people whose overall mandate is conservation of what is left of the ecological integrity of the wetland, is the place to start.
The fact is that the more frequently the gate is opened, the less obnoxious the discharge. Further, the more seawater that gets into the swamp, the healthier the swamp and the discharge. Any surfer knows that under certain conditions of tide, wind direction, and sea swell that sea water will get into the swamp. Several times over the last six years I have seen sea water come up the canal, under the road, and into the mangroves. A reliable witness reports this to be the case on the evening of Friday, October 17, 2008!
Next, during the most recent (not last) cycle of erosion at Sandy Beach, the “rebuilding” of the beach demonstrated the authorities’ priority. To quote an unknown graffiti poet: “Every time history repeats itself, the price goes up!” Does anyone remember when Mr. “Sonny” Edghill moored a large houseboat barge off Sandy Beach that Uncle Vincent Burke towed through the channel in the reef and into the lagoon? This was before human changes to the shoreline east of Sandy Beach slowed and deflected the inshore current that scoured the lagoon of excess sand. These were the days of sand dollars, sea grass beds, music shells and bivalve mollusks thriving in the lagoon at Sandy Beach.
Quite obviously, when the sluice gate was installed it was at the historical high tide mark not the current one. This artefact would better be relocated and displayed at the Barbados Museum. It is a simple matter to manage a new automated sluice gate to facilitate discharge of swamp water and recharge with oxygen-rich sea water. Depending on sea conditions, discharge at night and recharge by day! Does anyone remember the floods of October late 1970s? When floodwater was coming own Bush Hill and Garrison Hill like Kaiteur Falls? Does anyone remember how GHS flooded surrounding areas? Surely it is time for an automated gate that can be operated by a single person. Who is going to pump what where when the Sewerage Plant is under floodwater?
Were the Government-owned east side of the wetland to be restored to look like an old shooting swamp, it would do two things. One, it would increase the numbers and species of waterbirds feeding there and so increase the ecological value. And, two, it would significantly decrease the numbers of mosquitoes breeding there. Do not forget the Greek root “eco” meaning “house” at the base of both ecology and economy. Our house is our environment. To “externalize” environmental costs, as in conventional economic theory, is, to put it nicely, short sighted.
What is my agenda? Protecting the ecological integrity of Graeme Hall Swamp and the adjacent marine environment. Remember when Sir David Seale had a really fast colt named Local Knowledge? Well, without doubt university degrees are important, but local knowledge is key. “One-Eye-Jack is King in Blind-Man-Country,” for short, but not for long.
Wayne “doc” Burke
Wow, interesting analysis from a seafaring family.
Thanks Doc.
We will see how your lucid analysis is digested.
Doc Burke’s views are excellent and require attention. The ecological integrity of the RAMSAR site must be the key focus of any plan for the Graeme Hall wetlands and upland buffers.
His force of experience in the area needs to be integrated within a preliminary evaluation of the hydrology of the area before anyone contemplates a formal, science-driven drainage plan, and this plan needs to withstand rigorous scientific, engineering and public comment.
Perhaps Doc and the scientific community should stop being so shy about weighing in on the subject. Shyness won’t save the wetland or the study area.
Doc, you and the scientific brethren at UWI must align yourselves and actively engage with the relevant Ministries. Inject yourselves into the process. Don’t wait for an invitation to the dance.
The death of the RAMSAR wetland will be certain if the scientific community remains fragmented on this situation.
Morning All,
Thanks to those who see beyond the well-funded attempt to perpetrate a political-ecological coup on the Government and people of Barbados and destroy the government-owned east side of the wetland in the process.
My phone has been ringing with questions… A cautious man would ask, how “Free” is BFP? And, when and why did Barbados give birth to BFP. Not known to be overly cautious, however, I will proceed.
Allard made critical mistakes in constructing GHNS. Against other advise, he chose to exercise his penchant for keeping birds in cages. He selected as his “authority” on GHNS a self-appointed “expert” on everything under the sun. You see how many people go through the GHNS gate when admission is “free,” well it would take about that many paying visitors every week to feed Allard’s cage birds and keep the aviaries in “pristine” condition. I published already and will say again: avicultural exhibits promote consumption not conservation.
Instead of keeping it simple and focused on conservation, he tried to “Disneyfy” the place. But you cannot have Disney standards with “mickey mouse” and peanut resources. Why would our Government want to take over a failed venture that loses money every day? How could any conservationist that goes to sleep and wakes with integrity intact remain idle and watch the destruction of the Government-owned east side of the swamp to suit a personal self-serving agenda?
Leave it there for now…
Wayne “doc” Burke
Wayne, can you look to the future and be more specific about what should be done with the nature sanctuary now that it is closing? I know that you were working for the owner for a long time so can you say how the lands will be preserved in the future and where the money will come from?
Dear Mr. Inniss,
Is the Sanctuary closing or is Mr. Allard threatening to close it? As a Guyanese acquaintance put it when Allard put GHNS up for sale, “Oh! He playing dead to see what funeral he get!”
The western, privately-owned section of GHS (that is GHNS) will not vanish if/when Allard locks the gate to visitors. In fact the birds (I mean the wild ones) will benefit from decreased noise/light disturbance from “events” at GHNS.
(Why did GHNS have to turn to the “entertainment business” in the first place?)
Yes, I know GHNS from the “inside.” The GHNS lands are already preserved, Allard owns them! GHNS is only a part of GHS. The entire wetland is protected from less-than-wise management by the terms of the Ramsar Convention.
GHNS started with a bold threefold mandate for conservation, environmental education and nature tourism. Very exciting and commendable goal. Unfortunately, under this veneer is raging “slash and burn” economic survival…
The future? Allow me a digression… As a child, when I asked the old man a question, “Daddy, if so and so…” He would say, “Son, IF excrement had wings it would fly. But, go ahead what is the question.” (He used a different word to “excrement”).
IF I had any say in it, I would thank Mr. Allard very much for the Sanctuary, but, please would he take his private collection of birds with him when he goes. Then our Government could turn it into a real simple, low-maintenance, low-cost place for conservation, environmental education and nature tourism.
But, as the old man would have said “If…
Wayne “doc” Burke
Oh well, Allard will leave with his tail between his legs and we’ll be ready for the next “investor” or “philanthropist”. All “doc” Burke’s criticism is coming at the end of what? 20 years and US$35 million invested?
Like PT Barnum said, “There’s one born every minute”.
We’re always happy when the do-gooders come to Barbados and there’s lots more where Allard came from!
Can anyone name another person who invested more money in Barbados environmental projects than Allard?
Just wondering!
Mr.Allard is a “philanthropist”.
Barbados should thank him for his “philanthropic” $35million gift.
The Government should PAY him the $24million he is asking for the “philanthropic”Sanctuary.
Making the 235 acres of swamp at Graeme Hall a protected wetland is a decision that the Barbados Government should make on its merit.
Not to get the Sanctuary free on terms set by Mr.Allard.
The Sanctuary should be maintained as a Learning centre and Tourist attraction.
Again Mr.Allard should be thanked for his contribution to the environment and paid his asking price for the Sanctuary.
My own opinion is that a low-cost nature sanctuary sounds good, but who is going to run it, how is going to be paid for, and what will the conservationists do to make sure it happens properly? I ask this because I don’t see the old-time conservationists in our country doing all that much to promote a strong conservation ethic on the south coast. I hear a lot of talk. Look at the swamp at St. Lawrence. Allard doesn’t own that, so have our conservationists done anything about it over the last 20 years? It is still the garbage filled hole it has always been.
Will the agriculture lands around the RAMSAR site will stay that way? I think not, developers are greedy animals and if they see ag land they’ll want to develop it especially since it is in the middle of a prime area. The only way to protect it as an open space is to have parliamentary action.
BFP…prehaps you should invite the Conservationist and Environmentalist to list all the various areas that need attention including as above St.Lawrence swamp and River Bay.
Graeme Hall swamp was a festering garbage dump under the government. Allard turned it into something worth saving.
Name one thing that the government of Barbados has done that matches what Allard did with that putrid swamp.
After he leaves it will once again revert to a festering garbage dump. Guaranteed!
Dubai…developement without conscience.
“This massive influx of expats which includes (hundreds of thousands of indentured labourers )from South Asia is crucial if Dubai Inc. is to reach its goal of becoming an economic and tourist powerhouse.”
Saw a CBC Canada documentary last night.
http://www.cbc.ca/doczone/dubai
I support our PM who says he does not want an under class in Barbados.
Who will save Greme Hall ?
Writing about Graeme Hall is like trying to get our net server or Multi Choice on the phone. Recorded promises and more recorded promises, and you stand with the hours going by and nobody answering. Today we called every number in the book, dealing with Multichoice, until at last, just before 4 PM, we got a lady in the engineering section, who was good enough to attempt to help us.
Of course, it is way to early to see if anything comes out of that, but we do have faith she will try for us.
There are not a few who have wrung hands over Graeme Hall, and written prolifically about it. Some, like ‘Doc’ Burke, should be given solid gold medals for their undauntable attemps at saving the swamp, and trying to insist it be allowed to take its part in the ecosystem as it should.
But politicans, we fear, don’t make very good listeners with their plugged ears, when all they really care about are votes; and ecosystems remain as far from their minds as Andromeda’s galaxy M31 .
Graeme Hall Swamp
Evening all.
Thanks Colin but Captain Hutt and Karl Watson are more deserving of medals in efforts to preserve GHS.
“Gorillaphant” I hear you loud and clear! There used to be a GHS Scientific/Advisory Committee or some such. Those folks know who they are… When and where is an inter-disciplinary team of informed, objective people whose mandate is negotiating a resolution to the issues affecting the ecological integrity of the entire wetland and watershed going to meet? I know several folks in Government positions and at Cave Hill who must be involved. Come forward!
I have written to the Minister of Environment requesting a meeting to discuss these and other issues affecting wetlands and Important Bird Areas on the island (for example, Chancery Lane Marsh). However, as we all know, the Minister is very busy. I am confident, though, that the Minister will get back to me as time permits.
Meanwhile, here is another call for the reincarnation of a GHS Management/Advisory Committee!
Wayne “doc” Burke
I can name 3 politicians who lived less than 300 metres from a swamp.
They would have seen the fish and birds that the swamp supported.
The Tarpon (cuffins),mullets and snooks were abundant “back in the day”.
Thousands,millions(guppies) and also shaggers(crabs) were part of the Swamp life.
Hotels and condos have been built on some of the West Coasts swamps.
Barbados could easily become a concrete jungle along the South and West coasts.
Save Graeme Hall Swamp.
Keep the faith Doc. You’re on the mark. Age and acquired wisdom will hopefully fix those things that went the wrong way. Please don’t wait for the girl to ask you out, chase her until she says okay to resurrection of the GHS Management/Advisory Committee.
“Restrictions to the island’s beaches, which have been imposed by some property owners, should not be happening.
And new environment minister Dr. Denis Lowe says Barbadians should soon have more access to beaches.”
He should help out Rawle Eastmond and start at Heron Bay/Colony club.
Real estate slump started, I in the daily paper that the property that used to be Kings Beach is ‘up for auction’.
Would have been snapped up before if the real estate market was still firing.
Things have turned or are turning.
Graeme Hall Swamp/Watershed
Is any one watching? Seeing?
Peter Allard’s “authority/expert” on everything under the sun (including design and promotion of national parks “for all Barbadians”) is on Barbados.
Is he here to promote the destruction of Government-owned land (a Ramsar Site and Important Bird Area) on the east side of GHS to prevent sewerage from entering Mr. Allard’s “large inland lake” (sic) at GHNS?
It would be wonderful to keep GHNS open to the public. But who is going to bear the financial burden of maintaining it (in its current condition) now that Mr. Allard no longer wants to subsidize it ?
Wayne “doc” Burke
Gorillaphant,
What a majestic name. What good suggestions you give Doc, though we’ve love to know she could bring him happiness too.
I fear more for Gorillas and Elephants, Hippo and Tigers. A Man can,… and should, follow his own mind. Hope ‘Doc’ is still like that.
I was wondering, BFP, if we could slim this blog “About Us and Submissions” down? There are some interesting conversations here, diverse, and I think do not belong, and it is getting difficult to find and/or follow each topic.
Just a thought! Keep up the good work!
Banksters Refuse to Honor Bloomberg FOIA Request
Kurt Nimmo
Infowars
December 12, 2008
As Bloomberg reports today, the Federal Reserve has refused “to disclose the recipients of more than $2 trillion of emergency loans from U.S. taxpayers and the assets the central bank is accepting as collateral.” On November 7, Bloomberg filed a Freedom of Information request to disclose the recipients of more than $2 trillion of “emergency loans” from U.S. taxpayers and the assets the central bank is accepting as collateral, but the private banker syndicate has told Congress and the American people to go fish.
The Money Masters explains how the Fed runs its debt scam on the American people.
Bloomberg notes that the Freedom of Information Act requires federal agencies to make government documents available to the press and the public. However, the Fed is not a federal agency, it is a cartel of private bankers. It is a consortium of twelve private banks which are not part of the United States government and does not answer to it. The Fed controls our monetary system and acts at the behest of large national and international private banks. 100% of its shareholders are private banks and none of its stock is owned by the government.
Expecting a cartel of private bankers to respond to a FOIA is to say the least an exercise in futility.
Perpetuating the scam and the illusion, the Fed tells us they are subject to oversight by Congress, which periodically reviews its activities and can alter its responsibilities by statute. “As we know from watching the business news, ‘oversight’ basically means that Congress gets to see the results when it’s over,” writes Ellen Brown. “The Fed periodically reports to Congress, but the Fed doesn’t ask; it tells.”
In response to the Bloomberg FOIA, the Fed said it is “allowed to withhold internal memos as well as information about trade secrets and commercial information,” in other words it does not owe the American people the transparency it initially promised before the purse strings were loosened. Fed mob boss Ben Bernanke and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said in September they would comply with congressional demands for transparency.
Recall Nancy Pelosi declaring a congressional version of martial law in order to get the banker giveaway bill passed, as revealed by Rep. Michael Burgess on the floor of the House. Rep. Brad Sherman repeated Burgess’ claims. “Many of us were told in private conversations, that if we didn’t pass this bill on Monday, the sky would fall, the market would drop two or three thousand points, another couple thousand the second day, and a few members were even told that there would be Martial Law in America if we voted no.”
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
“We just witnessed a full week of Wall Street experts on television threatening the American people, and President Bush threatening Congress, claiming that ‘to do nothing’ will result in a economic crisis — possibly a depression,” Patrick Henningsen wrote on October 3. “So constituents called their Congressional representatives telling them to ‘do something’. No one is entirely sure what that something should be, so most Congressmen and women guessed that ‘something’ must be a $700 Billion ‘get-out-of-jail card’ for the bankers.”
As it now stands, that paltry $700 billion figure has ballooned to an astounding $8.5 trillion, a figure that represents almost 60 percent of the nation’s estimated gross domestic product. As the San Francisco Chronicle admitted, the “final cost won’t be known for many years.” Most of the money, about $5.5 trillion, will be printed by the Fed crime syndicate on its fantasy printing presses and loaned to the government. Our children, grand children, and great-great grand children will be on the hook to pay off this stellar debt — currently 10 trillion dollars, projected to go to 11 trillion or more in two years — for decades to come. It’s a dream come true for the international bankers.
“There has to be something they can tell the public because we have a right to know what they are doing,” Lucy Dalglish, executive director of the Arlington, Virginia-based Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, told Bloomberg. “It would really be a shame if we have to find this out 10 years from now after some really nasty class-action suit and our financial system has completely collapsed.” In fact, the banker debt scam is already crashing the economy, as planned.
“The fall of the US economy will have a domino effect and bring about a worldwide depression that will further depress the US economy and bring a full fledged inflationary depression worse than the great depression of the 1930’s. When this happens most companies will go bankrupt and will be nationalized,” notes Don Koenig. “When the US economy goes down it will take the world economy with it. This economic collapse will cause great civil unrest all over the world, cities will be filled with riots and later with troops.”
It’s the final stage of the bankster take-over, the last chapter of a plan to turn the world into a hellish corporatized slave gulag based on the China model. It really is naive to believe the Fed will respond to a mere FIOA request and reveal the details of its plan to crash the global economy. Bloomberg’s lawsuit against the Fed is commendable, however it is predicated on a false and dangerous assumption: that the Fed is a government institution answerable to Congress and the American people. It is not, although the illusion is alive and well.
Saturday December 13, 2008:
Friends, colleagues, detractors and general readers,
just a little note to let you know, that for personal reasons I will take a sabbatical from posting here on BFP.
The past, over two years, has been rewarding from a personal perspective, gaining much understanding and enjoyment not only from writers prolific in quality, such as Yardbroom, Colin and others, but from BFP members themselves.
I believe that the blog has contributed much nationally, particularly to the events of the last year.
We must all take learning, understanding and indeed pride from this.
I thank the owners of BFP for the opportunity to post here.
Truthfully, I must also thank them and others mentioned above, for bringing back to me the joy of writing. I thank you all profusely.
To that end, I also thank Colin for the useful references in the ‘Random’ section, while I have been busy, I do plan to take guidance on those writings.
In life we find that necessity comes first, but in the end, maybe with or only with fortunate promptings, one always returns to one’s fundamentals.
To the leaders, I say that you must live your leadership values, must always be respectful, must always listen, be understanding and the Almighty will guide you to success.
To other writers, I say stay strong in the pen and know that victory can only come with patience, understanding and learning. As they say, the pen is mightier than the sword and only education can result in true change.
To the youngsters, I say, stay away from trouble, it takes discernment as to what constitues trouble, but follow learnings from your elders, follow your heart and always be careful in your steps, be wary of wolves, if something ‘seems’ wrong, it probably is; but trust in the Almighty and you too shall succeed.
To all, I say that chasing material things is a lifetime exercise in futility.
Ultimately, all we have is soul. I have understood that the earlier that one learns this in life, the richer you are, in the richness that actually counts.
To the finance people, I say, that the ‘solution’ to the economic crisis is the age old remedy, of production, jobs and most importantly simple living.
This may not be the remedy that some seek, but maybe therein lies the problem.
Maybe we may return to community sports, to cricket, road tennis etc, to spiritual learning, in whatever fashion and to more positive lyrics and melody in music than negativity, disrespect and noise.
From my understanding, one day maybe two thousand years from now, the Earth will be either a vastly developed civilisation of people, or ruins blown by the dust of change, a symbol to the memory of our short civilisation, for what it was.
To me, there can be no greater example of what we have or do not have, that all we have is Soul.
This sabbatical may be temporary, or permanent, who knows.
If I do post, it will most likely be just quotes under ‘Random’, as I believe that much insight may be derived form these short phrases.
Here, I sign off and again, thank you all, profusely.
Peace & Live Strong
Rumple, God, don’t let your leaving be permanent. We shall miss thee and thy writings, profoundly, though we have never met. So make sure your return is assured, however long it takes we shall wait, in wistfull hope, till thy words once more stretch across the BFP pages, like stepping stones,…. to tranquil sanity.
Adios pues, entonces, y talvez nos veremos dentro algunas tiempos, con suerte.
Marines Establish Military Presence in San Bernardino County, California
Kurt Nimmo
Infowars
December 14, 2008
Branson Hunter, writing for the Big Bear Observation Post blog, reports that the Marine Corps Air and Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) and the local California Highway Patrol will be working together over the holiday “in a joint effort to reduce accidents and drinking and driving” in San Bernardino County.
Hunter contacted Corporal Knuesn of the MCAGCC Provost Marshal office and MCAGCC Public Affairs Chief, Gunny Sgt. Chris Cox. Both confirmed the USMC will be present on public roads in order to setup a military presence during routine DUI check stops. “They will be working closely over the month to cut down of traffic accidents,” said Cox, “the Military Police will observe DUI check points and watch for their own guys. The intent is to have military presence out there.”
Infowars attempted to contact the MCAGCC Provost Marshal office and MCAGCC Public Affairs to confirm the story but we were unable to reach them.
Dispatching Marines on California highways is an obvious violation of the Posse Comitatus Act (18 U.S.C. § 1385) passed on June 16, 1878. The Act prohibits members of the federal uniformed services, including military police, from working with state and local police and law enforcement.
However, since September 11, 2001, the federal government has increasingly ignored Posse Comitatus. On October 1, 2008, the U.S. Army announced its 3rd Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team will be under the day-to-day control of the Northern Command, ostensibly “on call” to respond to emergencies and disasters.
“They may be called upon to help with civil unrest and crowd control or to deal with potentially horrific scenarios such as massive poisoning and chaos in response to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive, or CBRNE, attack,” the Army Times reported on September 30. “Training for homeland scenarios has already begun at Fort Stewart and includes specialty tasks such as knowing how to use the ‘jaws of life’ to extract a person from a mangled vehicle; extra medical training for a CBRNE incident; and working with U.S. Forestry Service experts on how to go in with chainsaws and cut and clear trees to clear a road or area.”
It is not explained how assisting in traffic accidents falls within the purview of Homeland Security and the military. It appears that the Marines are using this very pretense in San Bernardino County to “cut down of traffic accidents,” a task normally reserved for local law enforcement.
Last month, Defense Secretary Robert Gates added yet another dimension to this incremental domestic militarization when he ordered the Pentagon “to conduct a broad review to determine whether the military, National Guard and Reserve can adequately deal with domestic disasters and whether they have the training and equipment to defend the homeland,” according to CBS News. According to a report issued by the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves, the Pentagon “must use the nation’s citizen soldiers to create an operational force that would be fully trained, equipped and ready to defend the nation, respond to crises and supplement the active duty troops in combat.”
On December 1, the Washington Post reported that the “U.S. military expects to have 20,000 uniformed [rapid reaction] troops inside the United States by 2011 trained to help state and local officials respond to a nuclear terrorist attack or other domestic catastrophe, according to Pentagon officials.” The Pentagon admitted that this move represented a “long-planned shift in the Defense Department’s role in homeland security,” never mind the obvious violation of the Posse Comitatus Act. “But the Bush administration and some in Congress have pushed for a heightened homeland military role since the middle of this decade, saying the greatest domestic threat is terrorists exploiting the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.”
Gunny Sgt. Chris Cox explained more than he probably intended when he told Branson Hunter that the “intent is to have military presence” on California’s roads. As Alex Jones documented in his film The Road to Tyranny, the military has trained for more than a decade in domestic military operations and specifically “training for urban warfare against the American people,” as Marty Proctor, owner of the Main Street Deli in Swansboro, North Carolina told WorldNetDaily in April, 2000, when the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit from Camp Lejeune invaded her town. “Members of the elite unit have been in Swansboro all week training with the local police at checkpoints and neighborhood patrols,” David M. Bresnahan wrote at the time.
In addition to the incremental dispatching of soldiers to assist local law enforcement in operating checkpoints and other duties, the federal government has largely taken over the financing, training, and direction of local police. “Under the 1981 ‘Military Cooperation with Law-Enforcement Officials Act,’ the US Department of Defense is supplying the local police with paramilitary training and equipment, especially for SWAT teams, for use against civilians. According to Peter Kraska in his article ‘Militarizing the Police’ in Social Problems (issue #1, 1997), many SWAT teams are being trained by former military special operations officers,” Fred E. Foldvary wrote for the Progress Report in 1999. It should be noted that this was well before the events of September 11, 2001, and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.
The purpose of this “heightened homeland military role” and the militarization of local law enforcement has little to do with a potential terrorist attack or natural disasters. It is part of a long-standing plan to implement martial law in America and control the populace through a military dictatorship. The National Security and Homeland Security Presidential Directive,” otherwise known as PDD 51, was signed into law through executive order by George Bush on May 9, 2007. It allows Bush — and soon enough, Barack Obama — to “take total control over the government and the country, bypassing all other levels of government at the state, federal, local, territorial and tribal levels, and thus ensuring total unprecedented dictatorial power,” as Paul Joseph Watson has noted.
In order to effectively establish a dictatorship and martial law, the government will need troops stationed in the country and that is precisely what the 3rd Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team and the Pentagon’s 20,000 rapid reaction troops are all about. It has nothing to do with al-Qaeda, the CIA contrivance, or Fox News hyped homegrown terrorism. In addition, numerous TOPOFF (Top Officials) national-level domestic and international exercises staged around the country are desgined to get the populace ready for the possiblity of a false flag terrorist attack and the presence of troops on the streets.
Marines supposedly assisting the California Highway Patrol is part of this effort as well and is designed by the Pentagon and Homeland Security to get citizens accustomed to a “military presence out there.” It dovetails with FEMA’s so-called Clergy Response Teams trained by the federal government to “quell dissent” and pacify citizens to obey the government after a declaration of martial law (see Feds Train Clergy To “Quell Dissent” During Martial Law). Hurricane Katrina played a part in this emerging long-standing plan when police and National Guard patrols forced home owners to hand over their legally owned firearms at gunpoint.
As Branson Hunter notes, the citizens of California and San Bernardino County should immediately voice their concern over the violation of Posse Comitatus and the Constitution. “The bottom line: I urge anyone and everyone who believes in the Constitution, United States Codes, and Posse Comitatus — to do something! What can you do? To begin with, I suggest you contact the local Joshua Tree CHP Public Affairs Officer, Officer McLoud, at: 760. 366.3707 and voice your concern. Further, you can contact the MCAGCC Public Affairs Chief on the base at: 760.830.5476 or 760. 830.6213. Moreover, contact the Provost Marshal office at: 760.830.4215.”
But wait nah, Dogbitemuh !
Have you not noticed that when populations, unionships of nations, huge crowds, of people get too big, there can become a ‘tip over ‘ point where they become unmanageable to any form of control. It is almost as though there must be a critical mass point, when everything starts to fall appart, or down. All it takes is a sudden abberition, a murmer from the throngs, a brillianth loud ‘boom’ , and ‘Old Mass’ takes place, people die or get rampled, the louts go to work and set torch, people pick on strangers, looting becomes the name of the game, coupled with hell- fire and smoke.
It is as though populations are designed to self- distruck, once they get past a certain critical mass and a certain level of prosperity with the certain level of recession that follows it.
‘Chaos’, by James Gleick, is a good book to read, concerning organised systems wether the weather, planetary deep space, or human conglomerations of countries, towns or football federations, or West Indian Federations.
‘Small is beautiful”, wrote E. F .Schumacker And by God he was right! The old, massive, Soviet Union, with Moscow -total- control, was a prime example of what does not work for long. But humans are not good at learning such things, and politicians are even worse.
Microsoft wants to get under your skin
HealthVault links up with VeriMed RFID chips
Bill Ray / The Register | December 15, 2008
Microsoft’s HealthVault, the medical records database, is to be integrated with VeriMed’s human-embedded RFID tags, allowing doctors to access the medical records of unconscious patients with a quick scan of the arm.
VeriMed consists of an RFID tag that is embedded in the arm of a hopefully willing participant, and responds with a 16-digital identity code when queried at 134KHz. This code can then be used to identify the person through VeriChip’s website, and will soon be able to link to their medical records as stored on Microsoft’s HealthVault system.
“VeriMed adds an exciting RFID-based option for HealthVault users trying to keep themselves and their families safe,” says Sean Nolan, the chief architect for HealthVault, quoted in RFID Journal. If you’re excited about the idea of being electronically indexed then this is probably the technology for you.
Not that the future of VeriMed is in any way certain, despite the Microsoft link. The company’s parent, VeriChip, has already tried to sell off the human-implanting part of the business as punters prove remarkably reluctant to be serial-numbered. Should the business fail entirely, a connection to HealthVault could be the best hope for the poor souls who’ve already succumbed to having chips embedded in their arms.
Hi Colin,
Do you support reduction of the earths population and if so how would you do it.
This is one of th missions of the New World Order and they are currently doing this by eugenics, wars and whatever means necessary. They are pushing for Global Government and prefer to manage small numbers. If their mission is accomplised then Colin we both might be among those exterminated.
They are also behind the stock market crash we witnessed a month or two ago. This is know as a false flag, one of the many techniques they use to bring about thier mission. They create a scanario and then take away your rights, like the patriot act, but in this case they said they needed to have a bailout. They threated congress with martial law. The got the bailout and started buying up the assets which were on the verge of bankruptcy or bankrupt such as Bear Stearns, AIG and other organizations. They also looted our pension funds. The banks left are Goldman Sachs and Bank of American and these wer left by design. Look as the Goldman Sachs boys like Neil Kashkari, and Hank Paulson hired by Bush to manage the bailout money. by the way you thought that 700 billion was the bailout amount, now the amount stands at 8.5 trillion. They want to reduce the USA to third world status. With one world goverment you can’t have one soverign nation that is stronger than the others. The foreign banks will end up ruling the world if they get their way.
(Check out the Georgia Tomb Stones on the internet- There you will find the commandments of the New World Order)
Can BFP start a discussion thread if Madoff was known to have made investments from or in Barbados?
Beefy:
AFAIK Madoff made no substantial investments here or anywhere else on the planet.
For a pleasant change the rich have been screwed by a Ponzi artist.
Dogbitemuh,
The Earth, being of finite size, and all its oceans with finite fish stocks, its mineral wealth likewise, its fast- disappearing forests, agricultural land, lakes and rivers, animal life, ect, et al. It would be extremely difficult to suppose or posit that the world human population could go on indefinitely growing ever larger, ever more largely consuming all that it needs, and adding all the pollution such an extension of population entails.
Sure, thou and I, may be part of what needs to go, and why not ? As to how one may have to decide to make the final decisions, I doubt we have to be concerned with that. Nature, one way or another, will serve her own purposes as her means of survival, and we shall sink down into dust, one way or another, dictated by her, so that she can sustain homostacis for the basic back bone of her subjects, like Noah and his Ark.
Beefcake
When the rich get taken it is a Ponzi operation, when the poor get taken it is a Pyramid. The general public doesn’t care when rich people rip off one another some of them may have to sell a yacht or give up membership in a country club or two. How do you invest those sums of money without access to an online account where you can see what is happening to your money on a daily basis? Even the most unsophisticated investor would know better although it seems that most Americans rely on monthly/quarterly statements to get a fix on their IRAs and Investment accounts. It appears that Madoff was creating his clients statements with bogus figures. He had to have assistance or he was extremely gifted at multitasking.
Scout, read this one!
Re: Palmers Plantation. Now I know there was a terrible tragedy there sometime last month, and my heart goes out to the parents of the murdered girl, and I pray that God will give them the strength to carry on with their shattered lives. However, on a different aspect of Palmers Plantation, according to reliable information, the (English)owner is awaiting permission to sub-divide and sell off in housing lots. THIS IS PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND, folks. Do I make myself clear? PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND. Again, according to my information, he is 100% sure he will get permission. I happen to know a Bajan man who would give anything to own that plantation and keep it as agricultural land as he is interested in farming. I think it will be a disgrace if permission is granted to sub-divide for the purpose of housing. My Bajan friend has been checking out several other plantations (many owned by foreigners) – again, prime agricultural land – where the owners are awaiting permission to sub-divide, and meanwhile leaving the land idle as rab land. Do you know anything about the Palmers deal, Scout?
San Diego
My understanding is that a portion of Palmers land is to be converting into housing, how much I’m not sure. The min of Agriculture in the Senate a few days ago made it abundently clear that he knows that some plantation owners were doing exactly what you said with their land with the hope of gaining permission to sub-divide. He pointed out that such lands would not be allowed to go out of agriculture unless it is rab land. I would keep a close eye on this development. I know of a guy who is trying to get a small area he has sub-divided for a while so that his children can build and he is getting the run-around with it. Interesting
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New year to the owners of BFP and to all the contributors to this blog.
Now the New Year reviving odl Desires,
The thoughtful Soul to Solitude retires,
Where the White Hand Of Moses on
the Bough
Puts out, and Jesus from the Ground
suspires.
O.Khayyam
Non-trivial trivia, if you go to www breathingearth dot net, you will see that on average, a person passes on every three and a half hours, in Barbados.
On average, a person is born every two and a half hours.
Can we say then that, with emigration, our population is kept fairly constant?
Sir Bentwood. The population growth is caused by having too many beautiful girls in Barbados these days, and probably too much Viagra being consumed by men who, long ago, should have given up frustrating themselves and grown older gracefully, if they could not have found any other way to have grown old and keep themselves fit.
Anyhow, I know what you are going to say, you know !
Ah Colin, you make some excellent points.
The young lasses on this tropical isle are indeed very nubile and delectable.
What therefore can we but expect that man would seek whatever assistance, even if pharmaceutical, to seek sampling of such wonderful fruit.
As General MacArthur said, old soldiers never die, they just fade away.
I should hope therefore, that such may only fade, after the requisite performance has been achieved!
If I may, quote one of our infamous bloggers here..
Laaaaddddd!!!
In reply to your final line, ..yes.
As long as you are alive, you ain’t dead.
Sir Bentwood,
Wouldn’t you also agree with me ,
too many people to their great misfortune have been alive, but have never, actually, truly lived, …. not always their own fault. It depends on what chunk of soil, or,… ism, they were delivered to, and what they managed to make of it. But who is one to judge the outcome of that ?
Colin, Absolutely spot on, every bit of what you say!
Who judges that outcome? No one, except their own soul?
Boy,I sure wouldnt like to be in David Thompson shoes right now and I praying for the good Lord to keep him safe because the BFP hate him even if he do one good thing and the Bajans over on Barbados Underground getting ready to drop lashes in his tail if he dont run out the illegal guyanese in Barbados, and the Guyanese getting ready to sharpen they machetes if he try to pelt them out the island. Lord help that young man. He sure as hell between a rock and a hard place.
**********************
BFP says,
And here at BFP Thompson could totally turn things around if he would do just ONE THING…
Immediately declare a government policy that no government contracts are to be issued to firms where government officials or their immediate family members have an interest.
No legislation necessary, but he won’t do it.
So… PM Thompson should STFU !!!
Are you saying that you will not published the article that was published in international news papers
Two stories about gullies from opposite ends of the spectrum caught my eye as I perused the Nation this morning. One highlighted the beauty and the nature of gullies and the joy they brought to local and visitors alike as they enjoyed the scenery and fauna during a tour of Welchman Hall Gully. The other story deplored the state of some gullies since they are being used indiscriminately as dumps by Barbadians.
All I can say is if Barbadians continue to throw garbage in the gullies as they do on the highways, byways and other open areas in Barbados then we are in a whole heap of trouble.
Sargeant,
Almost daily, we walk the gullies, or along the tops each side. They are being used as refuse pits too often enough, and often enough it is offal, or chicken litter.
The gullies conduct millions of gallons of rain water to lower levels. Rain water is the purest safest form of water, today, we can now drink on this island, but not after is has passed through refuse cluttered gullies.
There is talk about daming up gullies to force the rain water down into the aguifers. It is a good pratice to do so, and stop so much rainwater runoff into the sea. But for that we need gullies without refuse.
The laws are there. There is just not any enforcement. A squad provided with digital cameras could easily trap gully dumpers as they could easily trap litter mongers, but not enough people had died yet, through the result of drinking polluted water. That can come soon enough.
Meanwhile, the PPM impurities in our hard-pressed water system ( they used to be probably the purest, most natural in the world ) rises to,….. We won’t end this sentence, except to agree with your ‘Heap of Trouble ‘.
.
I followed the link about BWWR to Keltruth and see that they have a story about the Bahamian politicians who were charged with trying to extort money from John Travolta. First the Immigration Minister in bed with Anna Nicole to other politicians trying to get rich by extortion.
Bajan politicians can’t hold a candle to Bahamian politicians when it comes to corruption. Some years ago NBC broadcast a report about Pindling saying he was corrupt and Pindling launched a law suit for libel. The catch is he didn’t sue NBC in the USA he tried to sue all the cable companies in Canada that carried the broadcast. I guess he figured that he would lose in the USA. I don’t think anything came of the lawsuit.
When the outcry against corruption reached a crescendo in the Bahamas Pindling established a commission which found among other things that the PM had amassed wealth beyond his salary. Pindling was still reelected after those findings.
Pindling is gone but his legacy lives on
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sir_Lynden_Pindling
Holy Cow. Clico in receivership!
Our Sam Lord’s development is going to be on hold. The whole plan to step on the gas by Clico in Barbados in jeopardy!
BFP: Given your objection to contraception and abortion I think you would approve of this woman’s action. She already had six children under the age of eight and underwent fertility treatment??? Truth is indeed stranger than fiction.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/01/30/embryos.ethics/index.html?eref=time_us
Government, kudos where due:
You all know well that I am not aligned to any political party.
Certainly, even those in the DLP will know that when the time comes, I will ask for the updates on issues such as GEMS etc.
However, that said, it is time to give kudos to a leader and good governance.
PM Thompson and his Cabinet have just actioned two issues that we have raised in the past.
The first, raised some time ago, is the appointment of temproary workers.
Having these workers in ‘temporary’ positions for substantial time, greater than six months, is against any reasonable employment practice.
Government has now lead the way in recognising this and kudos must go to the PM and Cabinet for actioning to remove an unfair practice.
Secdondly, I see that the PM has asked to meet with the principals of LIME to discuss the closure of the call centre and firing of more employees..
With Barbados having been the source of huge profits for Cable & Wireless (now LIME) for many years, including current, we have already said that it is both unnecesary and immoral for that
company to lay off staff in such a manner, when the jobs still need to be done, despite small savings by taking the work elsewhere.
Further, in this economic climate, this action shows a lack of respect for the Barbados economy and for the social fabric of our society, by sending people home in the midst of an economic crisis worlwide, when the company is itself still earnings huge profits, the company is not even scraping to make a small profit, which would be grounds for restructuring at this time. This action is truly abhorrent and inhuman.
Know that most Barbadians are deeply disgusted by LIME’s actions in laying off these staff in this manner, in this circumstance.
Kudos for the PM and Cabinet in raising this directly with the company’s officials.
While law may not allow the PM to change the action of the company, hopefully moral suasion can do some good and not only save jobs at a critical time, but also save face for LIME. This is an opportunity for management of that company to save face in the eyes of the public.
Peace & live Strong.
What is the true truth ???
Advocate front page, 31 Jan 21009 ‘Clico Safe; in huge letters. We are given the assurance ‘there is nothing wrong with the Barbadian company . ‘ And that came from top brass.
Two days later, same newspaper, 3 Feb 2009, lo and behold, we read, front page again, but lover down in smaller letters, ‘The central Bank proposes to deposit BDs$10 million with Clico. ‘
We live in a baffling world. Finding ourselves like the voice on the slope, crying to the summit, “Is there any hope ? ” , to which an Answer peeled from that far land, but in a tongue no Man could understand.
Lowdown Hoad, Friday Nation February 6, 2009, is the single best piece of writing in the newspapers for the past five years.
Excellent article, to the point and accurate.
Well done Mr.Lowdown.
Peace & Live Strong
Hi BFP: Are you following this story? I know it is not Barbados but it is close enough. I like the following statement/excuse from the PM:
“Across the Caribbean, he said, politicians routinely receive personal donations of tens of thousands of dollars with no strings attached”.
What a damning indictment of Caribbean politicians
http://newsone.blackplanet.com/entertainment/lisa-raye-testifies-against-prime-minister-ex-husband/
Wow. Thanks Sargeant for this clip. This just goes to show how politicians screw the public. What I can say, is his behaviour goes with the territory.
I have a few questions.
Is the RSPCA in Barbados?
1.A non Profit Organization?
2.A charitable organization?
3.A private company?
4.What is the difference between a nonprofit and a charitable organization?
Love what you stand for but i think you should update your site, make it a little more user friendly and morden
BFP,
I want to know if you are going to remain silent about the lashes and bad publicity along with tarnishing of the good name of Barbados on that scandalous website http://www.mediatakeout.com. If you havent seen it, I suggest you go and take a look, where Americans continue on a daily basis to paint a very ugly picture of Barbadian life because of lies which are being propelled by this gossip site about us and the Rihanna/Chris Brown incident. Perhaps you may want to start a blog on this? Just suggesting.
I know that this BLOG will be lost in the sea of Blogs already here but is anyone else concerned with the construction or lack of it occurring on the west coast?
Lots of hoardings and signage has been erected but there is just no building going on. Being in the business myself I know exactly what the problem is! The Government is asking for more foreign investment and for more construction to encourage more employment yet we are seeing none?
The problem is that it is not because there isn’t anybody willing to invest and develop because there is. The problem is that there are NO planning approvals coming from the Town and Country Planning Department.
There is one man in that department who has been given the power to dictate, control and manipulate these approvals for the St James parish and he is the Governments handbrake. For god sake it is so obvious and so damaging! I am all for the T&C department being cautious on what it passes as I think their previous policies have been atrocious with the amount of coastal restaurants and hotels being replaced by monstrous condominium blocks that do not provide or add anything to the island but please sense dictates that they should be passing inland developments that will encourage purchasers and renters to the island who arrive with pockets full of cash to spend in our restaurants and local businesses. Surely it’s WIN WIN??????
These developments create employment from conception through to completion and onwards, it can only be a positive move, in fact there are no down sides that I can think of….
So come on lets move this gentleman in Town & Country who unfortunately will remain nameless to another insignificant desk somewhere and lets start encouraging growth on the island even through these tough times.
Stanford a cog in the U.S. intelligence dirty money laundering machine
Wayne Madsen
Online Journal
February 24, 2009
“Sir” Allen Stanford appears to be yet another multi-billion dollar cog in a network of off-shore banks, corporate contrivances, and folding tent operations. Although Stanford is being investigated for a $8 billion fraud scheme, the U.S. Attorney for the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Stanford has “extensive” holdings on the island of St. Croix, told the Associated Press that the Obama Justice Department is “not actively pursuing” Stanford.
The FBI is reportedly now investigating Stanford’s firms for laundering money for Mexico’s Gulf drug cartel.
The Obama campaign gave $4,600 in donations from Stanford to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless after the news broke about the investigation against Stanford’s firms.
A host of Democrats and Republicans reaped donations from Stanford, including jailed ex-Representative Bob Ney (R-OH), who was convicted in the Jack Abramoff influence-peddling scandal; former Representative Tom DeLay (R-TX); Representative Charles Rangel (D-NY), and Senators John McCain (R-AZ), John Cornyn (R-TX), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Richard Shelby (R-AL), Charles Schumer (D-NY), and Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX).
In 2006, Stanford obtained a knighthood from the Antiguan government thanks to his close relationship to Antiguan Prime Minister Spencer Baldwin, where Stanford International Bank maintains its headquarters. Stanford maintains dual U.S. and Antiguan citizenship. Stanford was also close to Antigua’s former Prime Minister Lester Bird, who was accused of massive corruption.
Ironically, it was while Baldwin’s United Progressive Party was in opposition in 2003 that he accused two of Bird’s ministers, Tourism Minister Molwyn Joseph and Planning Minister Gaston Browne, of accepting campaign donation bribes from Stanford in exchange for pubic lands in St. John’s, the Antiguan capital. Learning from his experience in donating to both Democrats and Republicans in the United States, Stanford ensures that both major parties in Antigua also received his monetary largess. It should also be noted that Antigua is a primary center for Russian-Israeli Mafia money laundering activities in the Caribbean.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
That may come as unwelcome news not only to Stanford but to the CIA that could see its illegal money laundering operations if Stanford is arrested and tried. Of course, that may also be problematic since the Obama Justice Department has decided to maintain a Bush policy of invoking a privilege of state secrets in criminal and civil cases involving national security matters.
Last November 1, the Spanish news agency EFE reported that Hugo Chavez’s military intelligence agents raided Stanford International Bank in Caracas and investigated three Stanford Bank employees at the Venezuela branch who were believed to be U.S. intelligence agents.
Stanford International Bank was reported by EFE to have been founded “during the Great Depression.” The bank is part of the Stanford Financial Group that was reported to have $51 billion in assets. Stanford Capital Management, Stanford Group’s investment branch, managed a fund called Stanford Allocation Strategy. The investment arm is also under investigation.
On March 6, 2007, WMR reported: “WMR’s report about ‘Sir’ R. Allen Stanford and his Stanford Financial Group in Houston buying up land in Antigua and Barbuda and running roughshod over the government of that nation turned up an interesting important footnote to the story. Stanford’s Houston offices are directly across Westheimer Road in the part of the Galleria complex where Carlyle Group offices are located. Coincidence? Not with the Bush criminal cartel.”
The FBI is reportedly now investigating Stanford’s firms for laundering money for Mexico’s Gulf drug cartel. Stanford, Houston, off-shore banks, and drugs equal the perfect brew for another Bush family criminal cartel operation tied to the CIA.
Obama’s Stimulus Bill is a Banker Contrived Debt Scam
Text size
Kurt Nimmo
Infowars
February 26, 2009
It was a joke, but not funny. Ben Bernanke, Federal Reserve mob boss, declared in his semi annual report to the Senate Banking Committee earlier this week “there is a reasonable prospect” the “recession” will end this year. The stock market responded with an upward blip of conditional and cynical enthusiasm.
Helicopter Ben, Obama, Congress, and much of the corporate media still refuse to tell the truth — we’re in a depression, not a recession.
Helicopter Ben, Obama, Congress, and much of the corporate media still refuse to tell the truth — we’re in a depression, not a recession. The cable news shows tell us Obama’s “stimulus” bill will make things right, when in fact the latest thinly disguised boondoggle — coupled with the multi-trillion dollar banker bailout scams — will soon usher in crushing hyperinflation.
It was meant to be this way. It was designed to turn you into a share cropper, a peasant, a modern day version of a serf indebted to the international bankers.
It is quite a toxic stew — stock market on the fall, corporate bankruptcies, bank failures, insurance failures, cities and states on the verge of bankruptcies, a foreclosure epidemic, government bond collapse, pension plans looted, the credit markets in a deep freeze… and yet Bernanke tells us we’ll be fine soon as we get past the rough patch.
Ben and Obama have the answer — more government spending and more debt for our children and their children. In other words, the answer to a crisis created by indebtedness is more debt. It’s like giving a shivering alcoholic a case of Special Brew to cure his alcoholism, as Niall Ferguson, professor of history at Harvard University, so eloquently put it.
Bad credit is the Special Brew for government. A banker compromised Congress created the Federal Reserve System, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae, Sallie Mae, the Federal Housing Administration and the Federal Home Loan Banks, and that’s just the beginning. Government directly encouraged the indebtedness of four out of five home-related borrowers. The national debt of the United States officially stands at $10.802 trillion, or about $37,851 per capita and 65.5 percent of GDP, although this figure is seriously understated due to off-balance sheet obligations, that is to say money we owe the bankers but the government is not telling us about.
In fact, the “obligations” of the federal government come in around $65 trillion, a figure that exceeds the gross domestic product of the world.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Instead of working to deflate the astronomical debt bubble, Obama and the Democrats are pumping it up. Never mind what the talking heads say on CNN and MSNBC — reading from their government, i.e., banker, scripts — the “stimulus” bill will not cure anything. It will make the situation far worse.
“Expected federal borrowing for 2009 and 2010 will be far from modest, and the consequences will be significant for interest rates — and potentially crippling for the economy,” writes J. D. Foster, an economist at The Heritage Foundation. In other words, Obama and crew will actually increase the cost of mortgages, not lower them. Obama is telling sweet little lies, as Fleetwood Mac might put it.
It was designed this way. The bankers print, regulate, and inflate our money supply through the Federal Reserve, the mother of all “debt engines,” as Ron Paul has called it. The privately-owned Fed will now “monetize the debt,” that is to say the bankers will turn on the printing presses in order to meet Treasury debt “obligations,” including the “stimulus” bill, actually a debt-creation bill that will do the opposite of what Obama and Congress tell us it will do.
Meanwhile, as Bernanke lamely attempts to reassure us about the “recession,” the banker-owned government is gearing up for the coming fallout. CIA White House intelligence reports now concentrate on “the global financial crisis and its cascading effects on the stability of countries through the world,” according to the Washington Post. “The addition of economic news to the daily roundup of terrorist attacks and surveillance reports appears to reflect a growing belief among intelligence officials that the economic meltdown is now preeminent among security threats facing the United States.”
Last December, a report issued by the U.S. Army War College warned that the banker engineered economic crisis “could lead to massive civil unrest and the need to call on the military to restore order,” as the El Paso Times phrased it. “Widespread civil violence inside the United States would force the defense establishment to reorient priorities” from going after manufactured terrorists such as al-Qaeda to going after the American people.
Retired Army Lt. Col. Nathan Freir characterized what is to come as an “unforeseen economic collapse.”
On the contrary, the economic collapse was planned well in advance. “From now on depressions will be scientifically created,” declared congressman Charles A. Lindberg Sr. after the Federal Reserve was established in the dead of night.
The very same science is at work today. It will eventually reduce us to peonage if we don’t stand up and and demand the bankers be arrested and tried for treason — and sooner before later.
Off-Topic – or rather New Topic I would like find out about …
Does anyone know much about the body found on the south-coast board-walk a few days ago.
Nothing in the news and everything very hush-hush – many people saw it, so why the silence, not even a fague mention in the newspapers or TV.
“The Obama campaign gave $4,600 in donations from Stanford to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless after the news broke about the investigation against Stanford’s firms.”
In no way defending Stanford …
Yet regardless of the source I think that once the money has gone to the needy then leave it out.
Celente: U.S. Has Entered “The Greatest Depression”
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Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Trends research analyst Gerald Celente, who has risen in prominence on the back of his deadly accurate economic predictions, says that the collapse of financial markets heralds the start of “The Greatest Depression”.
In his latest Trend Alert bulletin, Celente attacks mainstream pundits who falsely predicted a market bottom and the start of a recovery, noting that conventional analysts have been proven “dead wrong” again and that, “There will be no turn around in the second quarter of 2009 or 2010 or 2011.”
“The global financial system, built on endless supplies of cheap money, rampant speculation, fraud, greed, and delusion is terminally ill and will not be coaxed into remission by stimulus packages nor restored to health by government buyouts and bailouts,” writes Celente.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
The most positive prediction that Celente makes is that the Dow will not reach zero, a tongue in cheek reaction to yesterday’s record plunge which saw the Dow rolled back to 1997 levels well below 7,000.
Celente warns that the first signs of real panic are starting to set in, unrest that will cause governments to “take draconian measures to prevent total economic collapse and public panic.”
“Expect massive bank failures, runs on banks, and bank holidays,” writes Celente. “Even if deposits are FDIC insured, quick access to money is by no means assured. At minimum, have reserves on hand for emergencies,” he forecasts.
Celente cites gold as one of the few investments that will continue to rise in value, eventually reaching $2,000 an ounce and beyond.
Celente’s dire forecasts were initially scoffed at by the media but as the crisis has worsened, his credibility has soared.
Celente, who successfully predicted the 1997 Asian Currency Crisis, the subprime mortgage collapse and the massive devaluation of the U.S. dollar, told UPI in November 2007 that the following year would be known as “The Panic of 2008,” adding that “giants (would) tumble to their deaths,” which is exactly what we have witnessed with the collapse of Lehman Brothers, Bear Stearns and others.
BFP: I would like to know if either The Nation or The Advocate carried this news item or if theyare doing the usual bynot reporting the real news.
Ottawa woman unconscious after attack in Barbados
Updated: Tue Mar. 03 2009 12:04:16
ctvottawa.ca
An Ottawa woman is in intensive care with serious brain injuries after she was brutally attacked while on vacation in Barbados.
Friends say Terry Schwartzfield, 60, and her daughter-in-law were walking along an isolated stretch of beach when they were approached by a would-be robber Saturday night.
Neighbour Andre Brantz told CTV Ottawa when the women told the man they didn’t have anything to offer, the man grabbed a piece of wood and attacked them.
“They were running, but he overtook them,” he said.
Both women were beaten up. Schwartzfield took the brunt of the attack and is still unconscious, suffering from swelling to her brain.
“The daughter-in-law was unconscious, she was beaten. When she woke up, Terry was unconscious at the water’s edge. (She) tried to pull her out of the water,” said Brantz.
Foreign Affairs has confirmed Canadians were injured during a robbery attempt in the southern part of Barbados. In a statement, the department says “Officials are supporting and assisting two Canadian citizens who were assaulted Feb. 28.”
Schwartzfield and her husband Stephen Cotsman have visited Barbados five times.
The family lives in a tight-knit Ottawa community and a number of families on the block have taken the trip to Barbados together.
“I just want to be there holding her hand. She’s a very close friend,” said Gloria Rankin, who’s been friends with Schwartzfield for 14 years.
“Knowing she’s sedated, and she’s not there; I’m worried. She’s never really had an injury like this.”
Local police in Barbados are investigating.
With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Kate Eggins
It was reported in the nation.
Police better act quickly before this fellow strikes again.
http://www.nationnews.com/news/local/Canadian-visitors-attacked-copy-for-web – 11 hours ago -
Thanks Hants but that link doesn’t wuk nuhmore.
With regards to MIA no confidence motion.
I think the PM acted responsibly by calming depositors preventing a run on Clico Barbados.
Barbados needs to remain a calm and orderly society especially when the pressure is mounting.
I live in Canada and we are plunging into recession.You were right Sargeant.I was too optimistic in spite of an 80% drop in business for me during last year.
Barbados is going into recession .
I hope Barbadians are reminded that Mia Mottley can charter a private jet out of Barbados as easily as most of you can get on a Bus to go to Bridgetown.
Barbados needs stability and a no confidence motion against the Prime Minister in the midst of a recession is supremely self serving on her part.
As a person who claims to be worth $4 million she can “survive” the recession and continue to eat caviar, pork and bacon while a whole lot of Bajans ‘cutting and contriving”.
I wish you all well and hope that you will have a heart and help your neighbours as things get worse.
Yes, it is indeed amazing that only now many are realising what some of the rest of us were trying to explain over three years ago, that we are on the brink of real disaster.
Even now, some are still expecting some miraculous recovery; these are the equivalent of a deer in headlights, but not even seeing what is coming. Or maybe they see, but refuse to accept the difficult truth, as too hard to accept.
Most think that the proverbial has hit the fan already, probably the worst portion has not spun out yet, we are about to be bathed over the next year or two, then the long, slow rebuild will begin.
The next five to seven years will be long indeed.
In reality, things will never be the same again.
Have we lost? I am not sure, nothing ever stays the same, change is part of life.
I do worry for the youngsters coming up.
But then, mankind is very resilient, as I have said before, the main thing is keeping things simple and trying to maintain law and order.
Trying times indeed, have begun.
Peace & Live Strong
Church Document Encourages Congregation To Obey Government
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Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
A shocking document has come to light from a church in Ohio which educates its congregation that Barack Obama’s presidency is appointed by God and that Obama himself is “God’s minister,” in another perversion of Romans 13, the bible verse cited as an excuse for Christians not to oppose tyranny.
Ohio District Superintendent Rev. John Wooton was responsible for distributing the pamphlet, which was handed out at the Assembly of God church in Ohio, according to a reader who forwarded the document to us. Click here for the PDF file.
“This was handed out at the Assembly of God church that my fiance and I used to attend. We immediately stopped attending after getting this flier about ’submitting to Obama and the government,’ states the reader.
“The pastor even brought children to the front of the church, encouraging them to submit to teachers, firemen, and the police. It was insane.”
“I confronted the pastor about his stance on Romans 13, a year prior, and he assured me that he would never sell out his church. This sermon was given on the immediate Sunday after Obama’s election win. Please post this and inform others about it. I never, ever thought this would happen in the church I was attending, but thankfully, we were informed enough to leave this church,” he concludes.
The document cites Romans 13 verses 1-4 and claims that the following “paraphrases” can be interpreted from the bible.
- Barack Obama’s presidency is appointed by God. (v 1)
- Christians should lead the way in supporting Barack Obama’s presidency. (v 2)
- Barack Obama’s presidency can be a force for good and a deterrent against evil. (v 3)
- As president, Barack Obama is God’s minister to you for good. (v 4)
The document concedes that a majority of practicing Christians probably didn’t even vote for Obama because of his pro-abortion policies, indeed one of Obama’s first acts as President was to issue an executive order which ensured that millions more black babies are aborted in third world countries, with American taxpayers picking up the tab.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Obama himself has also scoffed at Christians in the past, arrogantly stating that people “cling to guns or religion” in tough times.
Despite this, the document urges Christians to “support loudly” Obama’s policies and “remember who is in control”.
Romans 13 has routinely been cited by tyrants throughout history in an attempt to prevent Christians from opposing their rule, indeed, it was Hitler’s favorite bible verse. Religious groups such as the Catholics in 1930’s Germany also used the verse as an excuse not to rise up against the Nazis when they were still a minority political party.
A large number of mainstream church representatives claim that Romans 13 means Christians should obey the ruling authorities no matter how tyrannical they are, and yet the bible itself is full of examples of men standing up to corrupt authorities and attempting to change the system – Jesus, John the Baptist and Moses being the prime examples.
Should Jesus have refrained from throwing the money changers out of the temple? Should Moses have cowered from standing up to the Egyptian slave masters? Should John the Baptist have kept quiet about the sinful practices of Herod Antipas, his condemnation of which led to his beheading?
The fact that large churches in America are encouraging their congregation to all but obey the government and support their agenda even if it opposes basic Christian principles is a shocking indictment of how much control the state now exercises over the church through the carrot of the 501(c)(3) Status dangled in front of corruptible pastors and preachers.
Ominously. as we first exposed in 2006, FEMA is training pastors and other religious representatives to become secret police enforcers who teach their congregations to “obey the government” in preparation for a declaration of martial law, property and firearm seizures, and forced relocation. The bible verse that FEMA encourages religious representatives to cite while undertaking this role? Romans 13.
The individual who forwarded the document noted that around the time the sermon was given, the church seemed to have an influx of funds.
“This church has a new stage with flat screen monitors, updated church vans, and is talking about expanding the church by building a new church, which all occurred around the giving of this sermon. Mind you, we were having a hard time buying new chairs for our church, no more than a year ago. Coincidence?” he writes.
Yikes!
Did you guys hear about this – the attack on the Canuck tourists at Long Beach?
Friends of mine in Canada fwded it to me…
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Kathy+Fischer+aware+dangers+Long+Beach+Barbados+where+also+attacked/1352166/story.html
…and this link has an unsettling but i have to admit interesting take on the attack…or more precisely, on the language of CBC’s (Canada’s, not ours!) reporting of the incident…
http://www.amnation.com/vfr/archives/012638.html
Aren’t these two different incidents? I read about one in the Advocate I think on Monday, but this would never be on the TV news, far too frightening!
A few years ago, there was an ‘incident’ in Bathsheba with newly-weds celebrating on the Island, the BTA did everything they could to hush it up, including free holidays etc!!
Dear Glenn Beck, Detention Camps DO Exist In America
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Steve Watson
Infowars.net
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
In light of Fox News’ new chief propagandist Glenn Beck’s recent bait and switch with regards to the existence of martial law holding facilities within America, we at Infowars feel it necessary to further enlighten Mr Beck on a few details.
Legislation currently working it’s way through Congress mandates the establishment of “national emergency centers” to be located on military installations.
The purpose of such facilities is to provide “temporary housing, medical, and humanitarian assistance to individuals and families dislocated due to an emergency or major disaster,” the expansion of which under FEMA is codified under HR 645, otherwise known as the National Emergency Centers Act.
Ominously, the bill states that the camps can be used to “meet other appropriate needs, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security,” an open ended mandate which many fear could mean the forced detention of American citizens in the event of widespread rioting after a national emergency or total economic collapse.
The issue of containment camps re-gained national attention three years ago when it was announced that Kellogg, Brown and Root had been awarded a $385 million dollar contract by Homeland Security to construct detention and processing facilities in the event of a national emergency.
The language of the preamble to the agreement veils the program with talk of temporary migrant holding centers, but it is made clear that the camps will also be used “as the development of a plan to react to a national emergency.”
Following the story, first given wide attention by Prisonplanet.com, the Alternet website put together an alarming report that collated all the latest information on plans to initiate internment of political subversives and Muslims after the next major terror attack in the US.
The article highlighted the disturbing comments of Sen. Lindsey Graham, who encouraged torture supporting then Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to target, “Fifth Columnists” Americans who show disloyalty and sympathize with “the enemy,” whoever that enemy may be.
It is important to stress that the historical precedent mirrors exactly what the Halliburton camp deal outlines. Oliver North’s Reagan era Rex 84 plan proposed rounding up 400,000 refugees, under FEMA, in the event of “uncontrolled population movements” over the Mexican border into the United States.
The real agenda, just as it is with Halliburton’s gulags, was to use the cover of rounding up immigrants and illegal aliens as a smokescreen for targeting political dissidents. From 1967 to 1971 the FBI kept a list of persons to be rounded up as subversive, dubbed the “ADEX” list.
As recently highlighted by author Naomi Wolf, the National Counterterrorism Center holds the names of close to one million “terror suspects” with the number increasing by 20,000 per month.
Discussions of federal concentration camps are no longer the rhetoric of paranoid Internet conspiracy theorists, they are mainstream news.
Halliburton, through their KBR subsidiary, is the same company that built most of the major new detention camps in Iraq and Afghanistan. KBR have been embroiled in a human sex slave trade that their representatives have lobbied to continue.
We have a company that has been handed a contract to build prison camps in America that is engaged in trafficking young girls and women. Can this horror movie get any more frightening? Sadly, yes.
A much discussed and circulated report, the Pentagon’s Civilian Inmate Labor Program, has recently been updated and the revision details a “template for developing agreements” between the Army and corrections facilities for the use of civilian inmate labor on Army installations.”
The plan is clearly to swallow up disenfranchised groups like prisoners, immigrants and Muslims at first and then extend the policy to include ‘Fifth Columnists,’ otherwise known as anyone who disagrees with the government or exercises their Constitutional rights.
Respected author Peter Dale Scott speculated that the “detention centers could be used to detain American citizens if the Bush administration were to declare martial law.”
Daniel Ellsberg, former Special Assistant to Assistant Secretary of Defense, called the plan, “preparation for a roundup after the next 9/11 for Mid-Easterners, Muslims and possibly dissenters. They’ve already done this on a smaller scale, with the ’special registration’ detentions of immigrant men from Muslim countries, and with Guantanamo.”
Furthermore, In 2002, FEMA sought bids from major real estate and engineering firms to construct giant internment facilities in the case of a chemical, biological or nuclear attack or a natural disaster.
Okanogan County Commissioner Dave Schulz went public in 2003 with his contention that his county was set to be a location for one of the camps.
Furthermore, in May 2006, we exposed the existence of a nationwide FEMA program which is training Pastors and other religious representatives to become secret police enforcers who teach their congregations to “obey the government” in preparation for the implementation of martial law, property and firearm seizures, mass vaccination programs and forced relocation.
A whistleblower who was secretly enrolled into the program told us that the feds were clandestinely recruiting religious leaders to help implement Homeland Security directives in anticipation of a potential bio-terrorist attack, any natural disaster or a nationally declared emergency.
The first directive was for Pastors to preach to their congregations Romans 13, the often taken out of context bible passage that was used by Hitler to hoodwink Christians into supporting him, in order to teach them to “obey the government” when martial law is declared.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
It was related to the Pastors that quarantines, martial law and forced relocation were a problem for state authorities when enforcing federal mandates due to the “cowboy mentality” of citizens standing up for their property and second amendment rights as well as farmers defending their crops and livestock from seizure.
It was stressed that the Pastors needed to preach subservience to the authorities ahead of time in preparation for the round-ups and to make it clear to the congregation that “this is for their own good.”
Pastors were told that they would be backed up by law enforcement in controlling uncooperative individuals and that they would even lead SWAT teams in attempting to quell resistance.
Though some doubted the accuracy of this report at the time due to its fundamentally disturbing implications, the story was later confirmed by a KSLA 12 news report, in which participating clergy and officials admitted to the existence of the program.
Watch the video:
This program is continuing under the Obama administration with churches declaring that Barack Obama’s presidency is appointed by God and that Obama himself is “God’s minister”.
In another detention camp related development, last May it was revealed that the federal government is accepting bids on the contracts from county governments or private companies to build and run “family detention centers” on both coasts and on the Southwestern border.
Again, as with REX 84, the precedent is to deal with an influx of immigrants.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) already runs two similar camps, one of which hit the headlines at the end of 2006 after residents in Taylor Texas held protests outside the The T. Don Hutto detention facility.
One of the last acts of Congress in 2006 was to send President Bush a bill that establishes a $38 million program of National Park Service grants to preserve Japanese POW internment camps in Hawaii, California, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and Idaho. Is this really in the name of historical interest or does it dovetail with programs on the books to intern hundreds of thousands of dissidents in a time of crisis?
What could the government be contemplating that leads it to make contingency plans to detain without recourse millions of its own citizens? asked former Congressman Dan Hamburg of the watchdog group Voice of the Environment, Inc. in a article carried by the San Francisco Chronicle last year.
“Since 9/11, and seemingly without the notice of most Americans, the federal government has assumed the authority to institute martial law, arrest a wide swath of dissidents (citizen and noncitizen alike), and detain people without legal or constitutional recourse in the event of an emergency influx of immigrants in the U.S., or to support the rapid development of new programs.” Hamburg co-wrote with Lewis Seiler.
The article continued:
Beginning in 1999, the government has entered into a series of single-bid contracts with Halliburton subsidiary Kellogg, Brown and Root (KBR) to build detention camps at undisclosed locations within the United States. The government has also contracted with several companies to build thousands of railcars, some reportedly equipped with shackles, ostensibly to transport detainees.
According to diplomat and author Peter Dale Scott, the KBR contract is part of a Homeland Security plan titled ENDGAME, which sets as its goal the removal of “all removable aliens” and “potential terrorists.”
Over the past decade we have witnessed an extreme acceleration of the physical implementation of a framework and infrastructure ready to receive those who will not go along with a coordinated destruction of traditional American values and freedom.
You do not need any confirmation one way or the other on this issue from Fox News or Glenn Beck, who has a track record as one of the most insidious corporate propagandists on television.
Just over a year ago Beck was on TV every week telling CNN viewers that Ron Paul supporters, libertarians and the anti-war left were terrorist sympathizers. Beck inferred that the U.S. military should be used to silence such dissenters, a theme we revealed to be a direct talking point that could be traced back to a September 2006 White House directive.
Now Beck acts like Ron Paul’s closest supporter, featuring interviews with the Congressman every other day.
Listen to Alex Jones’ analysis of Glenn Beck’s sudden “determination” to investigate real issues.
Its 8.30 am in Toronto. I just saw a report on the attack on ctv news.
BTA has to do some serious damage control.
The Government should mobilise the Defence force to patrol beaches.
The police must hunt down the animal that attacked these ladies and by extension the livelihood of thousands of barbadian workers.
Just as Canadian visitors to Barbados start increasing, one man’s actions threatens to reverse this trend.
Barbados is still one of the safest Tourist destinations in the world and it must stay that way.
Yes, two different incidents…
The linked article is about how the very recent attack brought back terrible memories for a woman of how she was also attacked at Long Beach.
Hants,
We could not agree with you more. But the
‘Cat’ will not be re- introduced for such people, though it is the only form of punishment they fully understand, and dread, and make sure they don’t have to ever get again once they have tasted it.
My father was a police Commissioner, and a policeman all of his life. If there is one thing I can remember him telling me, it is, ” If you want to know how effective the ‘ Cat ‘ is, then check the records and find out how many people ever needed it twice. ‘
The Federal Reserve Board of the United States is made up of private bankers. Hmmm, I wonder what has become of the bailout money they were supposed to distribute, under George Bush and now Barrack Obama. Reports are that the money is not getting to the people as it is supposed to. Funny, this would also have implications for the tax payers also who pay their taxes to the Federal Reserve. Interesting indeed, question is, who is this money going to. I submit then that the Federal Reserve is no more federal than Federal Express.
We really thought that Barbados was one of bthe safest haven in the world, that was why my brother travelled their for tourism only to be held unlawfully for over a year now.Anybody that is close to barbadian seat of government should notify them lest they dont know that some Nigerians are being held unlawfully and illegaly in their so called instituton. This have really distrupted the working and marital career of my brother here in Nigeria. Let all the concerned N.G.Os join hand with me in pressing for the release of these held tourist. Barbadian Government must be made to explain this unnecessary action.
http://video.google.com/videosearch?hl=en&q=obama%20deception&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wv#
BFP: what do you think of Al Gilkes suggestion that the authorities should demolish the Farley Hill ruins so that more concert attendees could be accomodated? Perhaps the suggestion has merit but old Al has a conflict of interest as he stands to “trouser” to use the British expression more dough since he is a concert promoter and the extra patrons would surely help his bottom line.
Al like he is a politician can’t see the conflict if it jumps up and bites him on his you know what.
Al has come a long way since the days of those tight bell bottom pants at the Nation.
Sargeant
The front page of todays Advocate shows 5 persons in a photo. 1 with a folder and 2 others with papers in their hands.
No notebook (laptop)? No blackberry?
http://www.toyota.com/rav4/trims-prices.html
Only in Canadur eh.
Hants
Was at GAIA yesterday, the springbreak crowd coming down in droves from TO and Montreal. I hope I can get a spot at the beach, did you miss your flight?
Sargeant
@ Sargeant,
Had to postpone my trip. Have to work on a project for a few days but will travel in a week or two.
Hope you are enjoying yourself.
Quote from the Scorpions:
The wind of change
Blows straight into the face of time
Like a stormwind that will ring the freedom bell
For peace of mind
Let your balalaika sing
What my guitar wants to say
A major Seattle print edition, in existence for 146 years is ending, going to the web only.
Ringing in the reality, that the web is at the fingertips, here to stay and important, news now.
So telling, that while President Obama saw the potential, saw the future, local political leaders and indeed paymasters, scoffed at the internet, yet now, we are clearly seeing the end days for print news.
Those of us here early on, remember the reticence of most politicians to post here, aside from two young and intelligent hopefuls, who must have realised the importance of this medium, alas to disappear, one can only assume silenced by those with party clout, but limited vision.
Cause for pause, that those with power, could have such limited vision and thought.
Change is part of life, our ability to be flexible in approach, yet strong in our convictions, will be tested, but crucial.
Peace and Live Strong
Dear Barbados Free Press,
I wish to ask if there is a reason why the valuable information on this website is not produced as a daily publication for purchase by Barbadians?
In other Caribbean Islands there are, in some cases, over 4 daily and weekly publications of Press and its always a refreshing experience to see a different style and method of journalism on a topic, the truth and all that surrounds it is clear.
I would very much like to see your website journalism published as a daily newspaper or even a weekly one. I think some competition is good for Barbados in this area and could resolve the mountain of poor journalism and lack lustre reporting that is seen on a daily basis here in the local press.
Thanks for the encouragement Fred. This website is a “hobby” and can’t be a paying business for obvious reasons. You or anyone else are welcome to download and save any or all of our materials. Adobe PDFs work fine!
The day that we have a reliable, principled news media in Barbados, we will go back to spending our spare time for personal enjoyment. Until then we shall continue to pound away at our central themes of integrity, transparency and accountability in public service.
Rockefeller: Internet is “Number One National Hazard”
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Kurt Nimmo
Infowars
March 23, 2009
According to the great-grandson of John D. Rockefeller, nephew of banker David Rockefeller, and former Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller the internet represents a serious threat to national security. Rockefeller is not alone in this assessment. His belief that the internet is the “number one national hazard” to national security is shared by the former Director of National Intelligence Mike McConnell and Obama’s current director Admiral Dennis C. Blair.
Senator Jay Rockefeller pontificates on the threat to national security posed by the internet.
“It really almost makes you ask the question would it have been better if we had never invented the internet,” Rockefeller mused during the confirmation hearing of Gary Locke (see video), Obama’s choice for Commerce Secretary. He then cites a dubious figure of three million cyber “attacks” launched against the Department of Defense every day. “Everybody is attacked, anybody can do it. People say, well it’s China and Russia, but there could be some kid in Latvia doing the same thing.”
Jay Rockefeller’s comments reveal an astounding degree of ignorance – or if not ignorance, outright propaganda. Since the September 11, 2001, attacks the government has cranked up the fear quotient in regard to cyber attacks and so-called cyber terrorism, a virtually non-existent threat except in the minds security experts and politicians. In the years since the attacks, not one real instance of real cyberterrorism has been recorded.
“Cyberattacks on critical components of the national infrastructure are not uncommon, but they have not been conducted by terrorists and have not sought to inflict the kind of damage that would qualify as cyberterrorism,” writes Gabriel Weimann, author of Terror on the Internet. “Nuclear weapons and other sensitive military systems, as well as the computer systems of the CIA and FBI, are ‘air-gapped,’ making them inaccessible to outside hackers. Systems in the private sector tend to be less well protected, but they are far from defenseless, and nightmarish tales of their vulnerability tend to be largely apocryphal.”
“Psychological, political, and economic forces have combined to promote the fear of cyberterrorism,” Weimann continues. “From a psychological perspective, two of the greatest fears of modern time are combined in the term ‘cyberterrorism.’ The fear of random, violent victimization blends well with the distrust and outright fear of computer technology.”
“The sky is not falling, and cyber-weapons seem to be of limited value in attacking national power or intimidating citizens,” notes James Lewis of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Such a threat is overblown, Lewis explains. He notes that “a brief review suggests that while many computer networks remain very vulnerable to attack, few critical infrastructures are equally vulnerable.” In other words, Rockefeller’s example of a kid in Latvia with a laptop posing a serious “hazard” to national security is little more than sensationalistic propaganda.
So-called cyber terrorists are far less of a threat than government. China and Australia have recently imposed draconian censorship on internet freedom. Brazil, Denmark, Canada, Finland, Ireland , Italy, Israel, the United Kingdom, the United States, and many other countries also impose nominal censorship on internet freedom. Urgent calls to restrict the medium in various ways through legislation and government action have increased over the last few years (for more detail, see Internet Censorship: A Comparative Study).
However, the real threat to internet freedom is currently posed by IT and ISP corporations, not the government.
The Alex Jones Show, June 11, 2008: : Death of the Internet. Part 2
As Alex Jones explained last June, large corporate ISPs are now in the process of imposing bandwidth caps and routing traffic over their networks and blocking certain targeted websites. For instance, in 2005 AOL Time-Warner was caught blocking access to all of Jones’ flagship websites across the entire United States. Other instances of outright censorship include the UK ISP Tiscali blocking subscribers from reaching material on the 7/7 London bombings and Google’s continued and habitual censorship of 9/11 material and Alex Jones’ films on the ever-popular YouTube. There are many other instances as well. (See Censoring the Internet: A Collection of Essential Links on Infowars.)
Jay Rockefeller’s warning about virtually non-existent and largely absurd cyberterrorism reveals increasing government nervousness and apprehension about the medium as a whole, especially as the internet grows by leaps and bounds as an alternative news and activism medium. On numerous occasions over the last few years alternative websites have posted articles exposing government crime, articles the corporate media has largely ignored. During the Bush years, the internet served as a vital resource for information on everything from torture and the destruction of civil liberties to the invasions and occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan, information the corporate media was often unable or unwilling to carry.
For instance, earlier this month Infowars broke a story concerning the Missouri Information Analysis Center and its effort to profile Libertarians and Ron Paul supporters as terrorists. The story was subsequently picked up by the corporate media (although Alex Jones and Infowars did not receive attribution).
As more corporate media outlets fail — as evinced by several high profile newspapers going out of business recently — and more people flock to the internet to get their news and information, the government will increasingly employ fear tactics designed to portray the medium as a refuge for terrorists, pedophiles, and other miscreants.
It appears the Obama administration is attempting to micromanage this effort. Last week CNet “obtained a summary of a proposal from Senators Jay Rockefeller (D-W.V.) and Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) that would create an Office of the National Cybersecurity Advisor, part of the Executive Office of the President. That office would receive the power to disconnect, if it believes they’re at risk of a cyberattack, ‘critical’ computer networks from the Internet.” As well, the effort would put the White House National Cybersecurity Advisor in charge of coordinating cyber efforts within the intelligence community and within civilian agencies.
So, as major news networks are reporting, with the upcoming peace conference in South Africa, who is refused an entry visa for South Africa?
None other than the Dalai Lama!
Ho hum….
Allegedly, a South African Presidential spokesman noted a reason that the Dalai Lama presence would have detracted from the focus of the conference and also affected the good relations that South Africa shares with China.
Is the purpose of the conference not….Peace?
Perfect case where political gobbledegook, self-interest and greed overshadows moral and right action.
Farcical is a mild word for this travesty.
Quote for Tuesday, March 24, 2009:
There is only one step from the sublime to the ridiculous.
Napoleon Bonaparte
Peace & Live Strong
So the Cuban Ambassador is upset that the Nation printed an article based on the lecture by Dr. Carlos Moore which was critical of the Cuban Govt’s treatment of its black citizens. Someone should tell the Cuban Ambassador that as much as we sometimes disagree with the content of the articles in the Nation last time I checked this is still a free country and the Nation can publish articles critical of other Caribbean Govts.
The Ambassador instead of responding to the content of the article talks about the “Revolution” some 50 years after. The Ambassador seems to want the same censorship which has been the hallmark of Granma and the Cuban Govt. ever since “The Revolution”.
It seems that the Ambassador is unable to rebut the truth of Prof. Moore’s statement so is wont to silence the messenger.
Sargeant
I was among a privilege few today to witnessed a first for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. B`s Recycling/ B`s Recycling demonstrated its multimillion dollar car compactor which was aptly nicknamed “The Beast” by workers.
Mr.Paul Bynoe and Jo-anne Lewis must be commended for doing more than the government to Reduce,Recycle and Reuse waste without any governmental help. I witnessed a Honda Accord crushed to a 4ft x 2ft solid mass.
Thus I am calling on all Barbadians to give B`S Bottle all their support by calling them to collect Old Cars, Stoves,Card Boxes,Refrigerators, Batteries and bottles.
Shame on the Government of Barbados for not taking the protection of our environment serious.
Mr. Minister of the Environment what will your legacy be?
Do you know NCC and Beautify Barbados bag grass weeded from the side of the Road?
Are you aware that Farley Hill should be designated a Sanctuary for the many wild animals and Humans?
I hope somebody share the Cree Indian Creed with you and the NCC Board as well as the NCF.
I ask of you again what will you legacy be? Be reminded I am “B” not a partisan B as you may think but an environmentally conscious Barbadian Minister Lowe.
Do you have any photos? Please send them if you can… Thanks!
barbadosfreepress@yahoo.com
Impressive stuff from a politician worth his salt.
Unfortunately for us every word is true, and our UK visitors are experiencing this mismanagement by a useless government, and we will suffer as they tighten their belts.
Anon,
You raised a couple good points over why the Cuban Embassador should be so huffed. But to tell you the truth, like Damon Gerard Corrie in the Nation of 26th March, I myself was also in deep shock when I read what Professor Carlos Moore had spouted at the University.
I have never heard one word of such racial tarnish being given over Cuba, and would suggest Professor Moore go moor himself in that island and take another look. He has obviously not been there for many years, perhaps thirty or more, I’d hazzard.
Just what is Professor Moore’s agenda, one must wonder ? Is there not enough racial disharmony in Brazil for him ?
Cliverton here and I disagree with you about Cuba Colin. I have lived almost two years in Cuba if you add up the pieces and there is a huge race issue with the blacks on the bottom, the “mulattos” in the middle and the whites on top. No or little social mixing.
Tourist areas are one thing, for reality head south east 15 mins from Holguin and you’ll see what I mean.
BFP.
Thank you for some really ‘On the recent ground’ information on Cuba. It does help tend to show that truly democratic states are still better than socialistic ones, which in most cases turn out to be dictatorships, when you roll back the bed covers.
I’m saddened to hear this of Cuba, and I just hope Venezuela does not get to be so, though you can find it in Caracas. Perhaps it is not so much a race distinction, but one of class ?
But races and classes tend to stick together, for obvious reasons like birds of a flock. I don’t see anything wrong in that. People tend to stick to their own kind, or, to their own class no matter what colouring they were born with.
If we are to object to those things, then we’re much more up against nature itself, than anything else.
Go to a home party in Trinidad, and you’ll see blending, yet they are not calling in people off the street. Trinidadians did it a very simple Trinidadian way. They let race mixing take its own slow course. It was not shoved down anybodies throat. It is just that that island, Trinidad, with all its wealth, never did learn how to come up with a political party system that worked.
And so the world rocks on, and the scales of balance swing up and down, and we look afore and after, and pine for what is not. But everything we make of it,… is up to us — individually.
Mac, I second every word of praise you have for Mr. Paul Bynoe and his recycling company B’s Bottle Depot.
Tribulations through history.
Hear the eleventh century Persian poet Omar Khayyam, through his Rubaiyat.
‘ Ah Love ! could thou and I with fate conspire
To grasp this sorry Scheme of Things entire,
Would not we shatter it to bits—and then
Re-mould it nearer to the Heart’s Desire ! ‘
Go at it, Obama, don’t look down, or back.
Home /News /Local SOMERVILLE
He’s putting reggae’s roots on film
Filmmaker and MIT radio DJ Generoso Fierro in Kingston, Jamaica, where his documentary on Lynn Taitt screened in February.
By Danielle Dreilinger
Globe Correspondent / August 24, 2008
Email|Print|Single Page|Yahoo! Buzz|ShareThisText size – + As Generoso Fierro haggled over some rare records, he realized he might be in over his head when the seller pulled out a machete.
But the MIT radio DJ, who was visiting Kingston, Jamaica, in February to show a documentary at the island nation’s first-ever Reggae Film Festival, kept his cool. He threw down 6,000 Jamaican dollars (worth about $100 at the time) and got 15 records.
Two years after completing that documentary, “Lynn Taitt: Rocksteady,” Fierro is making a film about ska pioneer Derrick Morgan. And though no one’s pulled any weapons on him for this film, making it has brought stresses of its own.
The goal is “preserving history,” said the 39-year-old Fierro, who lives in Somerville. “It’s probably the only chance I’ll ever get to see these guys again.”
Reggae, ska, and rocksteady developed in the 1960s, combining American R&B with native Jamaican Mento music. Fierro discovered the genres at age 12, when a friend brought him to see the ska band The Specials.
“I had never heard anything like it. It was so exciting,” he said.
Fierro then “went backwards and started listening to these Jamaican records they were covering.”
Now he’s such an authority that the Barbadian government contacted him for information on Jackie Opel, a musician who died mysteriously at a fairly young age. Fierro still marvels at the query: “Italian Generoso Fierro from Philadelphia!”
But, “when you know what you love, it makes it a lot easier,” he said, brushing aside praise.
Morgan was “one of the first superstars” of Jamaican music, Fierro said. He had his heyday in the 1960s and cut Bob Marley’s first records.
To put together the new film, Fierro flew Morgan in from Jamaica in June for a Father’s Day concert at the Middle East club in Cambridge. It was Morgan’s first Boston area appearance since 2001. A video crew recorded the performance, rehearsals, and one-on-one interviews.
Fierro, already exhausted from a crazy week at work, had his hands full coordinating events that night, fretting about the attendance (hurt by a Celtics-Lakers finals game, he thought), and taking care of his 68-year-old star, who has problems with mobility and sight.
“It’s kind of like having your parents visit, if your parents had 37 number-ones [hits] in Jamaica,” Fierro said, wolfing down an energy bar that night.
Fortunately, concertgoers and the crew appreciated his efforts.
“He’s bearing most of the weight of [the process] himself,” videographer Scott Willis said before the show, “which is pretty extraordinary.”
Standing outside, “Mister” Balbanah Williams, a Jamaican émigré who lives in Cambridge, said, “What he put out tonight, it was very nice.”
“It highlighted the best part of our culture,” said promoter Orlando Bowes, who had come from Miami. “We are very proud.”
After the tension of the concert, Fierro made the editing process sound almost easy – though postproduction on his Taitt documentary had taken about 400 hours. He aimed to be largely finished on the Morgan film by the end of this summer.
Late last month, in Fierro’s office at MIT – where he is an event coordinator for the Comparative Media Studies Program and hosts his weekly midnight radio show, “Bovine Ska and Rocksteady” – he ran down a checklist for his film.
Interviews scheduled with Morgan’s former duet partner and his long-ago archrival: check.
Searching for archival footage: check. (The Jamaican culture ministry offered to help, he said).
Starting to edit: check, though his technician, undergraduate Conor Lenahan, had joined the project only four days prior.
In a rough version of the film’s opening sequence, Morgan sits in the green room as his Boston backing band, the Void Union, plays. As his wife leads him onstage, the lights glint off his shades. He spreads his arms wide and starts to sing in a voice still elastic. A man in the audience bops, wearing a porkpie hat.
And the music keeps going. That’s important to Fierro, who was offended when a recent film on the late punk legend Joe Strummer of The Clash had celebrity testimonials overshadowing Strummer’s songs. “A music documentary with bad sound is like a car with no tires,” he said.
Fierro plans to submit the finished product to festivals. As for money, he plans to offer Morgan the option to sell it himself.
“It’s all out of love, really,” he said.
Though Morgan has spoken to Fierro only a couple of times since the shoot, the legendary singer acknowledged the effort in his own, distinctive style. In the footage, singing “The Conqueror,” Morgan rolls out a litany of thank yous, including a shoutout to “Papa Gene.”
Americans Feel 15.6% Unemployment as Underemployment Surges
Matthew Benjamin
Bloomberg
April 6, 2009
Joseph Ramelo gave up searching for work in January to return to school, two months after he was laid off as a San Francisco election clerk. Antonio Poe is struggling to get by doing part-time landscaping in Greensboro, North Carolina, after losing his job as an electrician.
While such workers are feeling real pain from the recession that began in December 2007, they’re not represented in the 8.5 percent unemployment rate the Labor Department reported last week. They are part of a broader group that includes those who want a job but have stopped looking for work and those who want full-time positions but have to settle for part-time employment.
A measure of underemployment that counts those people has almost doubled over the past two years, to 15.6 percent, providing a more complete gauge of the labor market’s deterioration. Along with an historic drop in the percentage of the population who are working, and record numbers of long-term unemployed, the figures point to a permanent shift in employment patterns, said former U.S. Labor Secretary Robert Reich.
Sheldon Spencer
Nibiru, when this planet passes our solar system, will be trial and tribulation.
Soon to be seen, 2012 is the year of trials.
Can anybody tell us if there is one
prosperous, free, happy, communist-run country in the world ? If there is not, it would seem the new Latin American socialist- heading heads of state, have not kept up with world history, and are just sucking their nations into deep misery. We sincerely hope we are wrong about that.
Moralez and Chavez, do not yet seem to be tyrants. They seem to have true wish for the betterment of their third class citizens , which is something badly needed in Latin America. They should know about that suffering, since they both came from such roots.
Hi. I am a Canadian grad student in Urban Planning. I spent some time on the island last year. I recently turned in my thesis on affordable housing in Barbados and the relevance of the chattel house.
I was wondering if I could get some Bajan opinions. In my paper, I make a case for the chattel house. I argue how strong the need for affordable housing is and show how financially and environmentally appropriate the chattel house may be as a low-cost housing solution.
I think highly of chattel houses, but I want to know how Bajans perceive them. Is there a strong social stigma associated with living them? Are they a desirable form of existing housing / new housing? How are chattel houses viewed culturally, symbolically, and socially, by different segments of the population, especially low-income households? Would low-income households to respond positively to a programme that subsidizes the self-help construction of chattel houses?
Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Erin
Richard “Lowdown” Hoad, who writes an excellent column in the Friday Nation newspaper, wrote very logically on this some time ago. You could try to find what he wrote or contact him.
Chattel houses are not a solution to low income housing in Barbados.
It is better for government to subsidise the construction of concrete block houses for the poor,
cause wen de hurricane come………or wen de fyah start…….
Dear BFP
It would be nice to hear some real opinions on the new income tax on line system. The newspapers report a few “hiccups”, but I am finding “a few” hard to believe, since I nor nobody I know has been able to get any of the the fields in the on-line form to add down nor any of the allowances to automatically show up. Also the phone down there is no longer being answered.
Thanks!
Hants,
Do you mean the concrete high rises they are talking about again ? I hope not. No form of housing could be so detrimental to the well being of any human. Humans are not ants, or termites. The high rise and its psychological- inducing problems has been well documented, and those who advocate such living conditions need do some serious reading, and,… be the first placed to live in such ghetos.
Colin I said houses not apartments.
I am opposed to poor people living in high rise apartments in the tropics.They cannot afford the cost of elevators and laundry rooms and they can’t grow much on balconies.
It is my view that the rich expatriates should live in luxury condo towers and the lower income bajans should live in houses or low rise 3 storey row houses.
“A penthouse and two adjacent floors, facing the Hudson, sold for $35.1 million to a buyer from uptown.”
get my drift?
The rich and famous can afford high rise living.
I hope this never happens in Barbados.
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/stranded-tourists-get-backing-43218082.html
The BTA needs to make a statement about Conquest vacations and the Canadians stranded in OTHER destinations.
Toronto radio and TV stations are referring to “caribbean destinations” and we need to publicly state that no Canadian Tourist were stranded in Barbados.
It would be a good time to assure Canadian visitors that Barbados would not treat them in the way they have been treated in other destinations if there was a problem with their travel agent or airline.
Alternative energy.
http://us.sanyo.com/dynamic/product/Downloads/HIT%20Power%20215N-12887676.pdf
What statement should the BTA make? Should they advise hoteliers not to demand payment if their guests’ vacation company haven’t paid their bills when they have been wining and dining for one or two weeks? The hotels are not a charity, they exist to provide a service and make money. If the travel agency goes belly up while it is not the guests fault the hotels have no choice but to demand payment for services rendered. Who will pay the hotels if they allow the guests to leave without paying the bill? Let the guests take up the matter of compensation with their Gov’ts or Insurance companies.
Sometimes I think you post to provide us with comic relief
Sargeant you do not have to read what I post.
I strongly recommend that you go entertain yourself selfishly.
I would like to hear Adrian Loveridge’s opinion
on the subject.
Hants: First you wanted a statement from the BTA, now you want Adrian L’s opinion.
I’m also interested in hearing whether Adrian runs a business or a charity, I repeat who will pay the hotel bill if Conquest didn’t pay? Should the Hotels absorb the loss?
At least the airlines are honoring the return tickets so my canadian brethren will get back home.
They can apply for compensation.
http://mytico.ca/consumer/consumer_compensation.php
http://www.conquestvacations.com/
Actually it depends on the contracts that the hotels have signed with the travel company, they may have no choice than wait to recover losses from the receiver of the travel company, if the contracts between customer / travel company representing the package and the travel company/ hotels do not contain clauses requiring the customer to pay in the event of travel company insolvency.
I suspect that the hotels will have to claim from their insurers, as the customer surely paid for the package up-front to the travel company, binding the arrangement.
But, check the contracts.
Contracts, contracts, contracts.
I hope that all parties had contracts in place and a clear understanding of the arrangements.
No comment can be made on resolution until this is ascertained.
I note that all the news sites note that customers are stranded, some cases being double-billed.
To me, this indicates a poorly designed operational and contract structuring.
I find it difficult to believe that the hotels would breach contracts so readily, if they were actually obligated to provide the service to the customers, without payment from the customers direct.
Thus, if this is the case, the contract arrangements were poor, should have allowed for this scenario and the hotel insurance should cover anything not recoverable from the travel company receivers.
Just checked the site of one package supplier, funnily enough, quite silent on travel company insolvency in its Terms & Conditions page.
One clause of interest ‘The air portion of your ‘company name removed ‘package is non-refundable.
Please note that, for some hotels, once your reservation is confirmed, your reservation may be wholly non-refundable.
Would this not indicate that these specific arrangements are solid and ‘paid for’ arrangements with the relevant airline/ hotel, as surely being binding on one party i.e. customer, is therefore binding on the other party i.e. airline/ hotel?
What is clear is that some legislation is necessary to govern these package deals, ensuring that either binding arrangements are ensured or that insurance is paid to cover such circumstances as insolvency.
On Friday, a Canadian foreign affairs spokesman emphasized that most hotels affected by Conquest’s closure haven’t been asking for more money.
But he said that Canadian officials are aware that some hotels in both Mexico and Cuba told customers they couldn’t leave the hotel property until they paid extra charges.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5i1Jwq6a196OYKJwfP1Tg2FQEinfQ
@Hants
Barbados would not treat its visitors in this manner.
Neither would Cuba
***********************************
I guess the Cubans are not the good guys you make them out to be. Fact is the people running the businesses want to be paid. There may be some unscrupulous hoteliers who are trying to squeeze money out of their guests but if the hotels received payments they are unlikely to requests extra payments from their customers as it does not make for good business. I am not a hotelier but perhaps someone could chime in with information on insurance coverage for Hotels if the tour company defaults on payment.
The hoteliers may not have any alternative for recovery of outstanding funds but to line up with the other creditors in Bankruptcy Court where they may recover 10 cents on the dollar if they recover anything. I heard a woman on CBC (Canada) saying that it took her four years to recover her money despite being covered by TICO after the last tour company collapsed
In the past Cuba has been very protective of their tourist industry and is a favoured Canadian tourist destination.
I am therefore surprised at the treatment meted out to “stranded” tourists in Cuba.
You could read the more enlightened and educated comments of Rumplestilskin.
From international news sources, the Pakistan government appears to be seriously losing control of its domain, to the Taliban.
While it may seem like small areas are being entrusted to Taliban and Islamic rule, due to excessive violence, the situation will likely creep slowly to a larger scale situation, where the Taliban will gain strong control of Pakistan.
While every nation has a sovereign right to rule, the concern is that nuclear capability in the hands of potential extremists will not be an acceptable scenario.
This has numerous consequences, both for the hoped for ‘economic recovery’, where more funds may be diverted to military uses, rather than developmental, together with political and social tensions further being strained in the Middle East, not to mention potential large-scale war.
It is now imperative that the United Nations seek a committment AND immediate action to protect, if necessary with UN troops, all nuclear facilities, together with a committment to have these incapacitated should the Government come under serious pressure internally.
This immediate action will prevent potential sudden escalation of conflict, should the Pakistan government indeed lose effective support within its borders.
This will also prevent significant sums of international funds being suddenly diverted to secure the nuclear facilities, to prevent unacceptable uses. Such diversion will have serious economic impact for any hope of a recovery.
It is necessary that these actions are conducted under the auspices of the United Nations, to rekindle the international committment, responsibility and authority for military and interventionist actions.
I do wish that I would be wrong on the need for this, but most probably, I am not.
I generally am against military action, except where absolutely necessary, but the securing of nuclear facilities, in the circumstances, does fall under the most serious considerations in the international social environment.
Peace & Live Strong
Hants,
Possibly Cuba, with her new offshore oil potiential, has decided like Trinidad did long time ago, you really don’t need to bother yourself too much about tourism.
I hope it is not like that, though. Both islands have such volumes of potential, except that Trinidad missed the last train to San Fernando, long ago, by letting crime now far unmanageable, get in the way of freedom. For there is no such thing as freedom, in crime ridden countries.
Reminds me of what Venezuelans told me long ago, about how safe Venezuela was in the years of her dictatorships. Perhaps some countries need such stringent control, for a time, off and on, when or if they swamp their freedom with complacency ,…and forget freedom’s true value.
Swine Flu Is Deadly Mix Of Never-Before-Seen Viruses
Text size
Paul Joseph Watson
Infowars
April 25, 2009
Swine flu panic is spreading in Mexico and soldiers are patrolling the streets after it was confirmed that human to human transmission is occurring and that the virus is a brand new strain which is seemingly affecting young, healthy people the worst, and that the bug is a never-before-seen intercontinental mixture of human, avian and pig viruses from America, Europe and Asia.
Clues that the virus may be a synthetic creation are already manifesting.
According to reports, the virus is a “never-before-seen form of the flu that combines pig, bird and human viruses” which consists of an intercontinental mix of viruses from North America, Europe and Asia.
“CDC officials detected a virus with a unique combination of gene segments that have not been seen in people or pigs before,” according to an Associated Press report.
“This strain of swine influenza that’s beencultured in a laboratoryis something that’s not been seen anywhere actually in the United States and the world, so this is actually a new strain of influenza that’s been identified,” said Dr. John Carlo, Dallas Co. Medical Director (video clip here).
Alarming reports are now filtering in about people catching the illness who have had no contact with pigs whatsoever. These include a man and his daughter in San Diego County, a 41-year-old woman in Imperial County and two teenagers in San Antonio, Texas. In fact, in all U.S. cases, the victims had no contact with any pigs.
Dr. Wilma Wooten, San Diego County’s public health officer, told KPBS “We have had person-to-person spread with the father and the daughter,” says Wooten, “And also with the two teenagers in Texas, they were in the same school. So that also indicates person-to-person transfer.”
“Dr. Wooten says it’s unclear how people were exposed to swine flu. She says none of the patients have had any contact with pigs,” according to the report.
Although the situation in the U.S. looks under control, panic is spreading in Mexico, where 800 cases of pneumonia in the capital alone are suspected to be related to the swine flu and the virus has hit young and healthy people, which is very rare with an flu outbreak. Despite the danger of a pandemic, the U.S. border with Mexico remains open.
“Mexico has shut schools and museums and canceled hundreds of public events in its sprawling, overcrowded capital of 20 million people to try to prevent further infections,” reports Reuters.
“My level of concern is significant,” said Dr. Martin Fenstersheib, the health officer for Santa Clara County. “We have a novel virus, a brand-new strain that’s spreading human to human, and we are also seeing a virulent strain in Mexico that seems to be related. We certainly have concerns for this escalating.”
The WHO insists that the outbreak has “pandemic potential” and has been stockpiling supplies of Tamiflu, known generically as oseltamivir, a pill that can both treat flu and prevent infection, according to officials.
As we previously highlighted, those that have a stake in the Tamiflu vaccine include top globalists and BIlderberg members like George Shultz, Lodewijk J.R. de Vink and former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.
Indeed, Rumsfeld himself played a key role in hyping an outbreak of swine flu back in the 1976 when he urged the entire country to get vaccinated. Many batches of the vaccine were contaminated, resulting in hundreds of sick people and 52 fatalities.
The fact that the properties of the strain are completely new, that the virus is spreading from people to people, and that the young and healthy are being hit worst, has disturbing parallels to the deadly 1918 pandemic that killed millions.
It is unclear as to why, if the virus is a brand new strain, that public health officials are so confident programs of mass vaccination, which are already being prepared, would necessarily be effective.
It certainly wouldn’t be the first time that deadly flu viruses have been concocted in labs and then dispatched with the intention of creating a pandemic.
When the story first broke last month, Czech newspapers questioned if the shocking discovery of vaccines contaminated with the deadly avian flu virus which were distributed to 18 countries by the American company Baxter were part of a conspiracy to provoke a pandemic.
Since the probability of mixing a live virus biological weapon with vaccine material by accident is virtually impossible, this leaves no other explanation than that the contamination was a deliberate attempt to weaponize the H5N1 virus to its most potent extreme and distribute it via conventional flu vaccines to the population who would then infect others to a devastating degree as the disease went airborne.
However, this is not the first time that vaccine companies have been caught distributing vaccines contaminated with deadly viruses.
In 2006 it was revealed that Bayer Corporation had discovered that their injection drug, which was used by hemophiliacs, was contaminated with the HIV virus. Internal documents prove that after they positively knew that the drug was contaminated, they took it off the U.S. market only to dump it on the European, Asian and Latin American markets, knowingly exposing thousands, most of them children, to the live HIV virus. Government officials in France went to prison for allowing the drug to be distributed. The documents show that the FDA colluded with Bayer to cover-up the scandal and allowed the deadly drug to be distributed globally. No Bayer executives ever faced arrest or prosecution in the United States.
In the UK, a 2007 outbreak of foot and mouth disease that put Britain on high alert has been originated from a government laboratory which is shared with an American pharmaceutical company, mirroring the deadly outbreak of 2001, which was also deliberately released.
As we reported yesterday, last time there was a significant outbreak of a new form of swine flu in the U.S. it originated at the army base at Fort Dix, New Jersey.
Like a wave mounting in the fore of a hurricane !
World Population Growth.
We’re told we need to go back to energy usage on the scale of 1970, if we are going to stop the effects of continual global warming, the rising seas, fish stock depletion, water and food shortage, the coming energy shortage, and run away world population growth.
The world population in 1970 was 3.7 billion. The world population today, April 2009, is 6.77 billion.
Roughly, we might say, the new figure adds up to twice as many cooking stoves of diverse kinds in use since 1970. So now add up everything else that has doubled along with the world population since 1970, taking into account transport of all descriptions including aircraft and shipping.
How many more huge manufacturing establishments are belching their smoke skyward, draining their wastewater into lakes, rivers and seas How much more agricultural land is being subverted to pleasure domes, airport runways, race tracks, houses, ‘overspread’ from towns,… the list is without end.
Of course, all this is in the name of progress, business, ‘ man got to work and eat’. And all this progress uses more and more energy, of every kind, more and more wood, iron ore, water, food to keep the hardworking men and women strong, more homes, cars, more supermarkets, more aircraft and ships, more roads and car parks. There is no end to the list, just as there is no end to the extra energy needed to do all these things.
And naturally, the demands race up exponentially as the world
population expands like a wave mounting in the fore of a hurricane.
So who is going to admit to the main problem, instead of keeping it unspoken, and unspeakable? Why have the European Union decided to drastically cut back on fishing now their fish stocks have, in some instances dropped 90%, which,…. is hovering on extinction for those species ?
The Chinese came close enough in attempting human population control, but it didn’t slow their populations much. Now China and India are both going to show Americans what energy consumption, pollution, and big business,…. is really all about.
And so we’ve Swine Flu on our door step, and a population density world wide to help it spread fast, and one wonders how many saw yesterday’s BBC Round-table in Bangladesh on ‘ Human Population Growth’, and still feel we should keep that problem under the mat and,…. forget all about it.
‘Another and another Cup to drown
The Memory of this Impertinence ! Omar Khayyam
Where is Straight Talk. Do we have to miss him so long ?
Or does age wear out our abilities to stay with the pace ? Or do we just grow weary of a world that seems to have got beyond us, implacable, ineffable, beyond prayer itself, where the dreams have faded like old parchments left in too much sun, and morbility has stilted the brightness of new dawns, and the canefields are all being inexorably cut away, stroke by stroke, by painful stroke, so that we feel their tears as the land turns to bland water- shedding concrete, and night lights kill the stars and the moon.
A Look Back at Obama’s First 100 Days
staff reports
‘I would hope he would do more to protect families in this country.’
On Wednesday, President Barack Obama will mark his 100th day in office. Focus on the Family Action has analyzed his decisions and policies thus far, as they relate to the family.
In his first 100 days, Obama has:
Signed an executive order allowing taxpayer funding to go to international groups that promote or provide abortions. The “Mexico City Policy,” as it’s known, also was rescinded by President Bill Clinton and then reinstated by President George W. Bush.
Opened the door for more human embryos to be destroyed for unethical stem-cell research despite science showing that adult stem cells provide cures; to date, embryonic stem cells have not.
Begun the process of rescinding the Bush health care provider conscience regulations. This move comes at a time when the U.S. is experiencing a shortage of practicing physicians, a drop one senator described as reaching “crisis proportions.” Making it easier for hospitals and medical schools to discriminate against physicians based on their moral or religious beliefs will only drive more of them out of the profession.
Lifted a seven-year ban on taxpayer funding of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which is linked to forced abortion programs.
Nominated Hillary Clinton as secretary of State. Clinton is an ardent pro-abortion politician who recently accepted Planned Parenthood’s Margaret Sanger award. During her acceptance speech, Clinton praised the eugenicist Sanger as a great Americans.
Nominated Kathleen Sebelius as secretary of Health and Human Services. She has accepted campaign contributions from notorious late-term abortionist George Tiller and welcomed him into the governor’s mansion. Sebelius is one of the most pro-abortion governors in the country.
Nominated Dawn Johnsen, former legal director of NARAL Pro-Choice America, to head the Office of Legal Counsel at the Department of Justice. Johnsen has called motherhood “involuntary servitude” and has said that restrictions on abortion make women nothing more than “fetal containers.”
Attacked charitable giving by proposing a reduced tax deduction for gifts to nonprofits. If it becomes law, it will have a major impact on faith-based ministry giving and other nonprofits.
Signed a bill that kills the District of Columbia’s successful school-choice program. The program benefits low-income families by providing private-school scholarships. Approximately 3,500 students have benefited from this program.
Nominated David Hamilton to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Hamilton has been a board member for the ACLU and a fundraiser for ACORN. He has ordered the Indiana legislature to end its historic practice of beginning each session with a prayer, and has written an opinion in opposition to abortion clinics providing information to women about alternatives.
Appointed Ellen Moran to a major communications post at the White House. Moran is the former executive director of the pro-abortion EMILY’s List.
Nominated David Ogden, Tom Perrelli, Elena Kagan and Harold Koh to top Department of Justice and State Department posts. Ogden has been a legal advocate for pornography producers; Perelli helped lead the legal fight to remove the feeding tube from Terri Schiavo; Kagan supported denying military recruiters access to law schools; and Koh strongly advocates mixing foreign law into important U.S. constitutional debates.
Expressed support for hate-crimes legislation and will sign if it reaches his desk. The House will vote on the measure April 29. The legislation creates a special class of crime based on the victim’s sexual orientation. Those accused of “inducing” a federal hate crime could be held responsible for the actions of another person. For example, pastors preaching against homosexuality could be charged with a crime if someone listening committed a “hate crime” against a gay individual.
Ordered a legal review of hiring-and-firing standards instituted by faith-based groups that receive federal funding.
Released a Department of Homeland Security “watch list” that included pro-life Americans.
Jim Daly, president and CEO of Focus on the Family Action, said: “Focus often gets vilified for our public policy positions, but fundamentally, what Focus on the Family is about is seeing more families like Barack Obama’s in America — a man and a woman committed to their marriage and to each other, raising their kids.
“When we have 40 percent of babies born in ’07 to unwed moms, that’s a problem for our country,” he said. “Everybody should be alarmed by that. And I think his first 100 days — we’ll let the historians talk about it.
“What I’m all about is marriage and parenting, and I would hope he would do more to protect families in this country.”
What are you suggesting. Population culling.
Are we useless feeders as Ted Turner of CNN fame once said?
Obama and ACORN GPS Marking EVERY Front Door in America?
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JB Williams
Canada Free Press
April 30, 2009
Republican Senator Judd Gregg was Obama’s first choice for the Secretary of Commerce post, and Gregg was actually considering joining the Obama team, until he found out that control of the US Census was being stripped from the Commerce Department and placed under the direct control of White House Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel.
Then, the same week that Americans learned that they were “domestic terrorists”—at least according to Obama’s new DHS (Department of Homeland Security),—if they own a bible, a pocket Constitution or guns, and still believe in Life, Liberty and Freedom, – they also learned that Obama’s Census Bureau had hired thousands of new temporary employees, equipped each with a handheld GPS computer and sent them out to mark GPS coordinates for every residential front door in America.
Oddly, it was this same period that news was breaking of an international flu pandemic, suspected of being a weaponized strain of the virus never before seen, – and that Obama’s team still sees no need to close the US-Mexican border, despite the cross continental spread of a deadly illness now claiming American lives.
Now, if any one of these events happened alone, one might not get too excited. But when a string of such events happen all at once, one begins to question the string of freedom and life threatening coincidences…
I can’t resist the urge to question the authority and purpose behind such a BIG BROTHER initiative, when the official Census itself is not due to be taken until 2010…
No imagination is required to think up a whole laundry list of evil that could be done with a nationwide GPS grid of coordinate’s markers painted on every private home across the country. But I was having trouble thinking up one good reason for it, even one legitimate use that would justify what must be a very expensive undertaking.
According to one of the Census workers, who spoke with me on condition of anonymity, they must GPS mark the coordinates “within 40 ft of every front door” in America and they are supposed to complete that mission nation wide, within 90 days, by the end of July 2009.
The workers were not told why they were GPS marking every front door. But a supervisor is sent out to follow them door-to-door, to make certain that no door is left unmarked. Every door will be marked by one employee, and then checked by a follow-up supervisor.
So, I had to ask, why?
Why does the Obama administration need or want the latitude and longitude coordinates for every home in America? Why the rush to GPS paint every home in the next 90 days? Why must the marker be within 40 ft of every front door? For what possible purpose does the Fed need GPS coordinates for every home, and under what authority do they have the right? Census workers, whom I asked, had the same holy-crap look on their faces that I had by then…
ACORN signed on as a national partner with the U.S. Census Bureau in February 2009 to assist with the recruitment of the 1.4 million temporary workers needed to go door-to-door to count every person in the United States — currently believed to be more than 306 million people. But the count doesn’t take place until 2010… This is April 2009.
Obama’s interest in an ACORN controlled 2010 Census, for the purpose of redistricting to the advantage of Democrats before the 2010 mid-term elections, comes as NO shock from a regime known for their heavy handed Rules for Radicals political strategies. But what does this have to do with GPS marking every home in the country?
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
The 2% of Americans, who have served military duty at some point in life, are very familiar with the most common use of GPS target painting. The other 98% of Americans might want to pick up a book on the subject, such as The Precision Revolution: GPS and the Future of Aerial Warfare …
Their Authority?
RightSoup.com has just about the only online report available on the matter, and they report, “Why does the government (and ACORN) need to have the GPS coordinates of your FRONT DOOR? Your house is probably on Google Maps already. But the front door? Sounds like a jackboot convenience to me. This is a developing story, and several reports of those who have already been visited by the GPS squad can be found in this forum thread.”
If you challenge Census Bureau employees about the GPS marking of your private residence, you will be handed a preprinted explanation referring you to Sec. 223, Title 13, U.S. Code, Chapter 7, Subtitle 2, which explains the penalties for refusing to provide names and statistics of occupants when asked for by a census taker. This only applies when they are taking a census, (which will not be taken until next year), and the penalty for refusing to answer questions for a census is up to a $500 fine.
However, since the actual Census is not due to be taken until 2010, nobody is asking for any information today. They are only GPS marking your front door today, and Sec. 223, Title 13, U.S. Code, Chapter 7, Subtitle 2 provides the Fed NO authority to GPS paint your front door.
Best I can tell, the Fed has NO authority whatsoever, to paint the front door of every private residence in America. Still, that is exactly what they are doing. Now, the trillion dollar question is, why?
A State of Emergency
From Wikipedia – The Posse Comitatus Act is a United States federal law (18 U.S.C. § 1385) passed on June 16, 1878 after the end of Reconstruction, with the intention of substantially limiting the powers of the federal government to use the military for law enforcement. The Act prohibits most members of the federal uniformed services from exercising nominally state law enforcement, police, or peace officer powers that maintain “law and order” on non-federal property (such as states and their counties and municipal divisions) within the United States.
In short, the statute generally prohibits federal military personnel and units of the National Guard operating under federal authority, from acting in a law enforcement capacity within the United States.
As members of the military are sworn to protect and defend the Constitution and the American people against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, a federal order to do the exact opposite, and take aim at American citizens, would be a clear violation of the US Constitution and the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, unless…
US Military personnel are trained to follow orders. But they are also obligated to refuse any order deemed “unlawful.” In order to make such an order appear “lawful,” the federal government would first have to declare a national “state of emergency,” such as in the case of an international pandemic, which can be demonstrated to threaten the health and well-being of American citizens.
Following a state of emergency declaration, a federal order for Martial Law would be expected, to allegedly provide law enforcement and security for citizens. This type of scenario can be followed by a presidential order to quarantine, disarm and contain American citizens in the name of national security, all of it, having the appearance of being “lawful.”
Is this what is happening?
Connecting the Dots
Alone, individual events look concerning, but not conspiratorial. What about when you place the pieces of the puzzle together and take a look at the entire picture developing?
Under this “theory,” how does the GPS marking of every private residence in the nation fit into the picture?
I wish I knew… but I don’t!
What I do know is this… Coincidences of this number and magnitude don’t happen. They certainly do not happen all at the same time, within hours or days of each other, out of the wild blue tin-foil hat heaven…
I also know that people had better start asking the right people the right questions and demanding answers fast. Begin with asking the mainstream press why there has been no public notification of the federal governments GPS marking your front door?
Then, I suggest contacting your local Census Bureau office immediately, and demanding an explanation as well as advice as to what law gives them the right to GPS paint every front door in America?
I’d also recommend sending a copy of this column to your state and federal representative, demanding that they put a stop to it or explain why it’s necessary, and what law gives them the right?
Unfortunately, we live in a moment of history when real events are much stranger than nutty conspiracy theories. The people have every right to know what is happening. But unless you demand to know, nobody’s talking!
Bill Clinton sold US nuclear technology to Red China for a mere $300,000 in campaign contributions. The event landed Chinese bagman Johnny Chung in prison, but put Hillary Clinton in the US Senate, and now at the helm of the US State Department.
Highly secured government servers are hacked daily. Soon, hackers will be able to grab a nation wide GPS grid map, marking the front door of every home in America.
How much is a GPS grid of every American household worth to the enemies of America, both foreign and domestic? I’d estimate, PRICELESS!
There is a foul odor resonating from the current regime in Washington DC and most Americans can smell it. Can most Americans gather the strength to do something about it?
Prolife:
What you have written about GPS and front door marking, is horrifying. More so for those who might have something to hide.
The same horror scene affected British in world war two, when identity cards became forced.
But there were no computers and their networks then, as there are now. Most of us felt the identity card was useful, in fact. You could show you weren’t a German spy as you boarded a bus or train, or went into a bank you didn’t know.
Today’s problem, is that we have to give out our private information on almost every new transaction we do. It all goes into easily -hacked networked computers; and your front door can be found on Google Earth without your bidding. Is there any difference else,…. we need worry about ?
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/index.pl/article?id=161472686
I suggest that people have a look at this article. It sheds some more light on the Clico fiasco and how the top brass have been rewarded. Is it any wonder that the local head honcho rides so high?
Actually, in Venezuela, I’ve just remembered, back in the late sixties and early seventies and again in the early nineties, long before Chaves came out of the woodwork, you were much safer if you had your cedula ( identity card ) with you where ever you went. If you were in a restaurant, or stopped in a caballa ( road check point ) by the army or police, without identification, they’d cart you off to jail, though you were allowed a phone call, and good coffee if you had a mug with you to get some of it. The guns they poked at you at the check points were a lot disconcerting. They had very big barrels and you could smell the gun oil and see the rifling down in the barrel. But usually the men holding such weopons where of good character, and lightly amused at your consternation, though, the flashing of your cedula put all that right, once they found a few bolivars slotted neatly behind it. Ten Bolivars then, in those days, would usually provoke all that was needed to ‘Vaya con Dio’ . And you went your way.
Colin,
So with all the oil money floating around at that time in Venezuela, the Police still needed ‘tips’?
Confirmation that the oil money stayed with a few, no wonder then that someone came to change things, for better or worse, Chavez.
People never learn, that unless the status quo includes all and does not exclude, change is inevitable, by peaceful means or by revolution.
One can chant off the names of countries where this has happened.
Greed signals and extreme, thus with the pendulum at an extreme, the counterbalance will come, one way or the other.
It is the way.
Fare thee well, gunslinger.
Oops, early am, should read ‘greed signals an extreme’.
Of Policing, and the spread of concrete.
Rumple,
There is also the possibility the police and the armed forces were not paid that well in Venezuela, just so they would be at their jobs at the alcabalas, gleaning what they could off drivers who did not have their correct or up to date papers, or who had lights not working on their vehicles, or who didn’t have ownership papers, or who had contraband or worse, in the trunk. You’d just have to fork out much larger volumes of Bolivars, if they found you bucking the laws, if you didn’t want jail, and had no cup to get good coffee in.
But you and I, Rumple, need to go back to hammering about the good agricultural land in Barbados, that is being erroded away by human hands, like rats at a cake, to the point this nation will starve in event of war, or world energy depleation, or anything else including a bad spread of one disease or another that disrupts shipments, including the ever growing possibility of actual drastic lack of food across the face of the world, fueled, by the ever-growing world population growth, and the ever- growing world distabilability seen by anybody who daily reads or views what is going on.
So yes, Peace and may God’s face so shine.
And in the US of A
http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/39283817.html
Oil at $58 per barrel this morning, up 50% on March’s low and 15% this week alone.
As I posted earlier, it seems that as soon as the first green shoots of economic recovery are reported the price of crude oil rises to trample them down.
The bell has rung …..Round 2.
Rupert Murdoch: “Internet Will Soon Be Over”
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Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Billionaire media mogul Rupert Murdoch gave a strange response when asked about plans for mainstream news websites to charge for content, declaring, “The current days of the internet will soon be over.”
He was making reference to the fact that corporate media websites cannot continue to survive under their current failing business model.
The establishment media is dying and advertising revenue has plummeted as people turn to blogs and the alternative media for their news in an environment of corporate lies and spin.
This has forced sectors of the corporate media to charge the dwindling number of loyal readers they have left for news content, a practice which is set to become widespread according to Murdoch. This will only send more people over to the alternative media as the old organs of de facto state-controlled propaganda wither and die.
“Asked whether he envisaged fees at his British papers such as the Times, the Sunday Times, the Sun and the News of the World, (Murdoch) replied: “We’re absolutely looking at that,” reports the Guardian. “Taking questions on a conference call with reporters and analysts, he said that moves could begin “within the next 12 months‚” adding: “The current days of the internet will soon be over.”
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Murdoch’s newspapers and TV networks, which include Fox News and the Asian Star Network, have seen profits plummet from $216m to just $7m year-on-year. MySpace.com is also floundering despite a recent move to replace the company’s entire management staff.
It was all but over for the Boston Globe this week, following a threat to close the 137-year-old publication after net losses of $85 million this year alone. Only a last minute cost-cutting agreement on behalf of its owner, The New York Times Company, and The Boston Newspaper Guild, saved the newspaper.
But it’s not just establishment newspapers that are struggling to survive – social networking websites like Twitter and corporate online video giant You Tube are also deep in the red. Apparently, paying out millions in server fees for half the population of the planet to watch clips of cute puppies isn’t a sustainable business model.
This is why You Tube is being forced to pursue lucrative partnerships with giant production studios and broadcasters, at the expense of user generated content which has been relegated to a sub-section of its website, taking the “You” out of You Tube altogether. Content that may be deemed harmful to You Tube’s corporate agenda and its multi-million dollar partnership deals, like The Alex Jones Channel, is being systematically erased from You Tube’s website under the pretext of flimsy copyright infringement claims.
The jig is up for the corporate media. If they continue to allow free access to their content they will go out of business because there’s not enough advertising revenue coming in, whereas if they charge for content they will lose a huge chunk of their audience and their influence in shaping the news agenda will wane completely.
This is the price the corporate media has paid for lying, spinning and obfuscating on behalf of the virulently corrupt power elite and expecting the population to eat it up without question.
The corporate media monopoly has terminal cancer and they are losing their power, which is why they are aggressively supporting moves to phase out the old Internet altogether and replace it with “Internet 2,” a highly regulated and controlled electronic Berlin wall, where alternative voices will be silenced and giant corporate propaganda organs will dominate once again.
This what Murdoch is really getting at when he assures us that, “The Internet will soon be over” and it’s down to us to stop that agenda from being realized.
Colin,
Fair point on the motive for the pay.
Yes indeed on the land use. Indeed, I heard a Gov’t Minister recently supporting high-rise for local low income housing, alas.
As has been oft-repeated on this message blog, high-rise should be no more than three levels, including ground, else it will become rat cages as those in major cities, dens of crime, horror and poverty.
We must oppose this vehemently. As I said, locals need fair design and space, the visitors who are here one or two weeks at a time, or even months, can live in high-rise condos, they care not about development, they care not about our long-term.
The land, where available, should be utilised for well-designed, simple but effective and pleasant surroundings for residents.
Rat cages are not suitable for anyone, I care not if they happen to be poor.
We have entered and era, an era of hope of destiny. Some said that Kennedy was the last of the ‘Gunslingers’, but we have another example of hope and destiny for all.
We must all strive for betterment of our Nation, not of a few, but of all, without tearing-down others, those who have already made it, but by building up all.
Coolio: As we walk down the road of our destiny
and the time comes to choose what shall it be
the wide and crooked, or the straight and narrow
we got one voice to give and one life to live
stand up for something or lie down in your game
listen to the song that we sing
it’s up to you to make it big
I guess I’ll see you when you see me
Fare thee well Gunslinger.
Peace & Live Strong
Prolife, yes I saw the news of Murdoc’s rant!
An indication, as you say, that a few large elite will attempt to hijack a worldwide free medium and administrative wonder for their own greedy purposes.
We must reject this at all costs.
Peace
Local Supermarkets.
The sudden jump in the price of coffee by 45%.
This is an example of Supermarket price
gouging. Maxwell House 100 % Colombian,
11 oz , sold in a tin last month, was $11.oo.
This month, sold now in a compressed pack ( not a tin), the same coffee, the same 11oz, is now being sold at $16. Five dollars more for the same amount. If this is not ‘Rip Off ‘, I’d like to know what is ?
Recovery? What Recovery?
Why entrepreneurs aren’t so optimistic about the economy.
By Kevin Kelly | Newsweek Web Exclusive
May 7, 2009
From the Editors (3) Photos: What About Us? Photos: The Bailout Felt ‘Round the World Photos: The Greediest People of All Time See All Recommended (6) Economy: What The Bank Stress Tests Really Mean Why the Economy is Showing Green Shoots NEWSWEEK’s Business Roundtable on the Economy Who’s to Blame for the Financial Crisis? Hirsh: Geithner May Have It Right After All Jonathan Alter: How to Save the Banking Crisis See All Topics (1) U.S. Federal Reserve See All 85 Comments Add Yours Share:
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Don’t tell me that the economy is getting better, or has even hit rock bottom. My faith in an imminent recovery deserted me on May 5, when one of our customers, Salyer American Foods, based in Monterey, Calif., suddenly fell into receivership. There had been little to no indication that the company was so close to financial ruin. As it turns out, the company’s lenders say Salyer owes them over $34 million, a debt equal to almost half its sales. A company attorney told local media that tight credit markets and the economic recession had pushed Salyer over the edge. If the receiver doesn’t find some way to revive the company’s fortunes, our bag manufacturing company stands to lose nearly $1.5 million in revenue, about 2 percent of our $60 million in sales.
On the same day my customer fell into receivership, Fed chairman Ben Bernanke told a congressional committee that he believed the economy was in the process of bottoming out and “would turn up later this year.” He’s not alone in his optimism. Over the past two weeks or so, it has become a cottage industry among economists and the media to spot the first “green shoots” of a recovery. Certainly shoots there may be. The stock market has rebounded smartly over the past two months, as has consumer confidence. Pending home sales have ticked up, while unemployment claims are easing. And many economists insist a manufacturing revival is in the wings because inventories have fallen so low that restocking must begin soon.
SMALL-BUSINESS DIARY
Managing to Succeed
Kevin Kelly
After more than a decade of growing his family’s business, one entrepreneur copes with the collapsing economy.
Preview Article | Comments
Small Business: Can We Afford Health Care?
Credit Crunch Is Still Squeezing Small Business
American Workforce Shifts to More Part-time Jobs
But I haven’t found many small-business owners ready to jump on the recovery bandwagon, and for good reason. We’re still experiencing the “bottoming out” phase and worry that another bottom remains below this one. Call us pessimists, but we’re not sure the green shoots aren’t just weeds.
Who can blame us? Take the experience of a friend of mine, who runs a $6 million company that provides promotional material to businesses. His sales are down 20 percent compared with last year. Over dinner last week, he said he certainly wasn’t shedding customers at the same pace he had been in the fall, but customers were still defecting. “I can’t see any reason why they’d come back soon,” he said. So he’s getting ready for a second round of layoffs and plans to end spending on marketing until things look more promising.
He’s not alone among my friends and colleagues in his sense that bad times may be here to stay. One friend just decided to abandon her two-year-old Web-based gift boutique thanks to declining sales. She has another friend whose promising e-business startup had its venture funding yanked when it failed to meet sales goals. “Two years ago they’d have been given time to work things out,” she says. Instead they recently closed. Another friend of mine works for a commercial real-estate company that’s instituting 10 percent wage cuts beginning in mid-May. “It’s better than people losing their jobs,” he said to me, “but I don’t expect to be getting the money back any time soon.” Given the growing worries about commercial real estate, he’s probably right.
Even some companies that are supposed to be recession-resistant remain worried. I know the general manager of a small candy company, who says his sales haven’t stopped sliding despite the belief that people supposedly eat more comfort food during bad economic times. He has cut back a shift and won’t be rehiring soon. Representatives for a small local bank have told me that they haven’t seen an uptick in business lending, and that they don’t have businesses looking for money other than those they wouldn’t lend to in the first place. And a long-time machine supplier of mine has had a completed bag-making machine on its floor since late 2008, when the customer decided not to go through with the purchase. Despite a steep discount, the company can’t find a buyer.
Based on my company’s experience, I don’t necessarily see a positive side to low inventories. Over the past several months, we’ve seen lead times on orders fall at least 30 percent. Where our customers used to give us three to four weeks to fill an order, now they give us as little as two. Shorter lead times have followed the trend toward smaller orders. Where companies would once order 3 million bags and hold them on their floors for several weeks, now they’re asking for only 1.5 million and reordering at the last possible moment. In most cases, it’s not that their sales are falling, just that they’re slashing order sizes and reducing lead times in order to avoid tying up capital in inventory. Since they’re entering smaller orders more often, we’re less likely to hold inventory as well. In my corner of the manufacturing sector, the revival that economists have been pointing to seems a long way off.
Now, I know businesspeople can be notoriously wrongheaded when it comes to spotting trends. Aren’t the Big Three automakers at least partly responsible for their own demise because of their failure to anticipate the need for more fuel-efficient cars? I know I’ve almost blown the opportunity to capitalize on growth in the past by being too conservative about buying new equipment. In fact, I’ve angered customers by stretching out lead times rather than investing, because I’ve been worried that the sales growth isn’t sustainable. Talk about a self-fulfilling prophecy. Even right now, when I can see that a judicious equipment purchase could propel our company forward, I worry about taking on more debt and hold back, even with one supplier offering terms that would give us a machine for a year without any payments.
That’s all very interesting, but what are your views on Rihanna’s supposed inverted left nipple.
Get real, let’s talk substance on this blog.
Man Rihanna’s left inverted nipple. Sounds interesting but she really not my cup of tea, if you know what I mean.
When Is An Accident Unavoidable?
__________________________________
I confess to being totally mystified by the comments of the Coroner on the “unavoidable accident” which killed 6 persons and injured many more at Joe’s River in 2007. The Coroner stated, inter alia:
“The vehicle had passed all its tests, yet we know that it had many mechanical defects at the time of the accident.” Unavoidable accident!
“any worthiness test passed by BT4 was in respect of it carrying 30 people and not 41 as occurred on the day of the crash” Unavoidable accident!
“In relation to the owners, Barbados Transport Co-op – owners of the coach BT4 – the Court was alarmed at the condition of the coach and that there was no satisfactory history of service or maintenance record” Unavoidable accident!
Please, Madam Coroner if this was an unavoidable accident, what is required for it be an avoidable one?!
I thought the term was strange given the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. What was amusing (I hesitate to use that term given that people died) is that she said the evidence of a witness “proved false’ well….. Was he charged with perjury?
This looks like another “accident” where neither the driver, the owners, nor those responsible for maintaining or servicing the vehicle are accountable. Perhaps it was the passengers fault.
Oh well just another day in Paradise
Boy Scouts Train to Become Homeland Gestapo
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Kurt Nimmo
Infowars
May 14, 2009
Once upon a time the Boy Scouts were about camping, backpacking, and canoeing. Boy Scouts were into high adventure and sporting activities. Scouts were about preventing forest fires and “Do a Good Turn Daily.” Scouts worked with the Salvation Army and the Red Cross. They cherished ideals such as the Cub Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack.
Now the Boy Scouts have a new mission — fighting terrorism, rounding up illegal aliens, search and destroying marijuana fields, and embracing the SWAT mentality.
“The Explorers program, a coeducational affiliate of the Boy Scouts of America that began 60 years ago, is training thousands of young people in skills used to confront terrorism, illegal immigration and escalating border violence — an intense ratcheting up of one of the group’s longtime missions to prepare youths for more traditional jobs as police officers and firefighters,” reports the New York Times.
Homeland Security and the FBI are behind the effort to indoctrinate and train the Boy Scouts to become tomorrow’s Gestapo. “Our end goal is to create more agents,” April McKee, a senior Border Patrol agent, told the New York Times. “Before it was more about the basics,” said Johnny Longoria, a Border Patrol agent. “But now our emphasis is on terrorism, illegal entry, drugs and human smuggling.”
“Just as there are soccer moms, there are Explorers dads, who attend the competitions, man the hamburger grill and donate their land for the simulated marijuana field raids. In their training, the would-be law-enforcement officers do not mess around, as revealed at a recent competition on the state fairgrounds here, where a Ferris wheel sat next to the police cars set up for a felony investigation,” Jennifer Steinhauer writes for the Times.
Scouts are trained to identify the enemy. In a competition in Arizona, one role-player wore traditional Arab dress. “If we’re looking at 9/11 and what a Middle Eastern terrorist would be like,” said A. J. Lowenthal, a sheriff’s deputy in Imperial County, California, “then maybe your role-player would look like that. I don’t know, would you call that politically incorrect?”
Politically correct or not, Homeland Security and the FBI realize Arabs are not the enemy — “rightwing extremists” are.
Last month, Infowars reported on a document produced by the Department of Homeland Security’s National Infrastructure Coordinating Center identifying advocates of the Second Amendment, veterans, pro-life activists, and militia members as dangerous terrorists. A subsequent DHS document, entitled “Domestic Extremism Lexicon,” pinpointed “antigovernment” types “rejecting federal authority in favor of state or local authority” as possible terrorists. “Islamic groups are specifically excluded from this document,” writes Benjamin Sarlin for the Daily Beast.
The new Gestapo Boy Scouts program will train the new Hitler Youth — or Obama youth — for the challenges of a totalitarian globalist future. As the planned implosion of the economy unfolds and unemployment increases, the federal government is picking up the slack. “In the wake of the huge stimulus package to jumpstart the economy, plenty of new positions are being created by 2010. The agencies that will benefit include the Defense, Commerce, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs departments,” writes Judi Hasson for Fierce Government.
Gestapo Scouts will be required to combat “rightwing extremists” who will refuse to turn in their firearms after the next false flag terror attack or engineered pandemic. SWAT Scouts will be called to deal with those who refuse to participate in mandatory vaccinations. Police state Scouts will be the vanguard for Obama’s million-man Civilian National Security Corps. “just as powerful, just as strong, just as well-funded” as the military.
It’s up to the New York Times, as the premier “liberal” propaganda outfit, to sell the militarization of the Boy Scouts to the American people, using the standard bugaboos of Arab terrorists, drug cartel thugs, and marijuana cultivators as the example of why all of this is necessary.
In the real world, however, government is not primarily concerned with drug dealers — after all, the government and Wall Street run most of the drugs — they are worried about growing opposition to the destruction of the Constitution and the imposition of world government by a cabal of international bankers and their corporate fascist partners in crime.
An application for increased electricy rates has been made to the Fair Trading Commission which proposes the highest increase for domestic consumers.
It is proposed that consumers using 50 kilowatts monthly (at the bottom of the scale) would pay an increase of $3.47 and those at the top using 500 kWh would pay an additional $11.04. In between there are proposed rates for citizens using 100 kWh ($3.50), 150 kWh ($8.46), 200 kWh ($8.83), 300 kWh ($9.57) and 400 kWh ($10.30).
The company has contended that businesses have been paying a greater share of the cost of providing electricity and is seeking to adjust this so domestic consumers pay a larger share than they have in the past.
As a result the power company is proposing to increase the Rate of Return it makes from the Domestic side of the market from the current 2.58 per cent to 7.82 per cent, which is the single largest increase of the five categories.
So rather than the current return of 4.1 million dollars it is seeking to earn 12.6 million dollars from its application.
The likelihood of an electricity rate increase by October coincides with pending higher telephone rates of four per cent.
Armed with the above information and our electricity bills it is possible to calculate what our new monthly bills would be if the application was accepted without change. This is particularly useful for persons at the bottom of the income ladder such as pensioners.
Hallam Hope
caritel@hallamhope.com
If They Knew the Truth, They’d Hate Us Even More
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Ciaran Dubhuidhe
The Insolent Media Center
May 14, 2009
We Americans like to think of ourselves as civilized people. Historically, we have supported our government in war under the belief that our government and our soldiers are honorable and that we do not engage in unjust wars. Ugly things like genocide, torture, naked aggression, raping, pillaging, and scorched earth policies are things that others do, not us. Since we are so good and virginal in every sense, we reason that others hate us only because of our goodness and purity. If they knew the truth about us, we think, they would love us.
Yet, if this is so, why is it that we need to hide from the world the activities of our soldiers and intelligence agents over seas? Why cannot we, the “liberators” of Iraq, show the world the lovely photos of our soldiers at work Abu Ghraib? Why must the CIA consider destroying the records of American conduct in the prisons at Guantanamo? We are so pure, clean, honorable, and all, aren’t we? What have we got to worry about?
Could it be that those baby faced soldiers we praise and pay tribute to are not as honorable as we would like to believe? According to the latest body keeping the Oval Office seat warm, release of photos showing the activities of our soldiers, activities ordered by George Bush and Dick Cheney, would make the world hate us more than they already do and would, as a consequence, endanger the lives of our soldiers. Just how horrible are these images? We shall discuss that shortly, but before we do, let us consider this claim itself by translating it into smaller statements:
1. If the world knew what we were really like, they would hate us more than that already do.
2. If the world knew what our soldiers do, they would rise up and kill our soldiers.
3. Our government cares about the lives of our soldiers, and so we cannot release the photos.
These are interesting assertions. The first assertion implies that anyone who knows the truth about us, would hate us, not because of who we are, but because of what we do. This contradicts strongly Bush’s assertion that “they hate us for our freedom.”
The second assertion implies that our soldiers are monsters, on an order equal to that of the worst soldiers history has known, for I know of few cases in history where populations have risen up to fight only because a nation’s soldiers were monstrous brutes. In short, this statement implies that the soldiers we are told to support unconditionally are war criminals. Said differently, supporting our troops is aiding and abetting war crimes.
On the third assertion, I ask you this. If the lives of our soldiers are valued by our government, why are they fighting two unnecessary wars? Why do we throw away their lives in defense of a lie and then recoil when their lives are endangered by the truth? Does anyone out there see the irony in that?
The next question to ask ourselves is what exactly did our soldiers do in Abu Ghraib? According to those in the know, our soldiers, on order of Bush and Cheney, raped children in front of their captive mothers. Their brutality was so monstrous that their mothers begged to be killed rather than live with the memory of what was done. Add this to the knowledge we already have of beating innocent captives to death, raping female captives, and torturing captives. The next time you see an American soldier, picture that in your mind – picture that soldier raping a little boy in front of his mother in a prison cell. That is what the world sees when the world sees our soldiers.
I can think of no offense that a soldier could commit worse than those committed by our own. Future generations will watch movies retelling the stories of our soldiers and those stories will be more brutal than the Nazi era movies we grew up watching. Just as you and I vividly see the image of Nazi madmen lining civilians up at a wall and gunning them down, the next generations were see American G.I.’s in uniform raping little boys and girls in front of the mothers while mentally defective Americans stack naked bodies of men in piles and pose before the mountains of flesh for personal pictures. It is hard to see the Romans or Mongol hordes as worse than us. We are at the pinnacle of human depravity.
Moreover, given that our analysis above shows that this government does not care in the least about American soldiers, you can be sure that there is one reason and one reason only that they do not wish the world to see these images. The absolute truth is that they fear their own prosecution. In a just world, Donald Rumsfeld, Condoleeza Rice, John Yoo, Jay Bybee, Steven Bradbury, Alberto Gonzales, John Ashcroft, Dick Cheney, and George Bush would be summarily arrested, tried, convicted, and sentenced for crimes against humanity. However, this is not a just world. Our President is the unjust Barrack Obama, a man who is more concerned about his future plans as President of the United States than he is about the rule of law, morality, ethics, or humanity. Mr. Obama has become a accessory after the fact to the crime and a willing participant in its cover up. Mr. Obama has joined the ranks of war criminals.
Sadly we live in a country whose history is much like this current scandal. Our self image is a deception based on denial, cover ups, and delusion. We cannot progress unless we look ourselves in the mirror, not for a quick glance, but for a long and painful self inspection. They do not hate us because we are good. They hate us because we are a selfish and evil people consumed with our own comfort and drowning in the fetid smell of our own decay. We are a depraved, unproductive, and brutal empire on the brink of collapse. They hate us because they should and if they knew the whole truth, they would hate us even more.
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Bilderberg Wants Global Department Of Health, Global Treasury
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Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Veteran investigative journalist Jim Tucker has uncovered Bilderberg’s 2009 agenda, which includes the plan for a global department of health, a global treasury and a shortened depression rather than a longer economic downturn.
Appearing on The Alex Jones Show, Tucker said that former Swedish Prime Minister and regular Bilderberg attendee Carl Bildt, “Made a speech advocating turning the World Health Organization into a world department of health, advocating turning the IMF into a world department of treasury, both of course under the auspices of the United Nations.”
Tucker noted that such moves would constitute giant steps toward the world government that Bilderberg has set about to achieve but has been frustrated in finalizing over the past 10 years.
Tucker said that Bilderberg are keen on stressing the problems caused by the economic crisis, as well as the threat of a disease pandemic, as a means of justifying centralization of power.
According to Tucker, Bildt also discussed global warming in the context of a global tax on carbon emissions, which has long been a part of Bilderberg’s agenda.
The global tax which will be paid directly to the UN will be introduced gradually, first of all as a barely noticeable tax at the gas pump, before being hiked up once it is in place, said Tucker.
Regarding the crucial Lisbon Treaty, which was struck down after Irish voters said no to its passage last year, Tucker said that Bilderberg were planning to privately send representatives to Ireland to talk to political leaders in an effort to push the treaty through. The EU requires all member states to ratify the treaty before it can be passed and Irish voters will again be asked to vote in a referendum later this year despite having already rejected the treaty last year.
Tucker said that a key component of this year’s Bilderberg Group meeting was an effort to get President Obama to, “Slip through ratification of the International Criminal Court treaty,” by forwarding it to the Senate to be voted on.
“Their tactics are this,” said Tucker, “Obama is to sweet talk the many left-wing Democrats in Congress who really want the International Criminal Court treaty, they’re just scared because people were so strongly opposed to surrendering sovereignty that they were afraid to vote for it – political cowards – so Obama’s going to sweet talk them and say don’t worry, we’ll have more liberals in the Senate after the 2010 elections so in January of 2011 when the new Senate is seated you can ratify it late on a Saturday night when it’s too late for Sunday morning papers and to re-plan the Sunday talk shows….there will be no political reprisals.”
Tucker confirmed the information first released by Daniel Estulin, that Bilderberg were discussing whether to sink the economy quickly or drag on a long agonizing depression. “Treasury Secretary Geithner and Carl Bildt touted a shorter recession not a 10-year recession….partly because a 10 year recession would damage Bilderberg industrialists themselves, as much as they want to have a global department of labor and a global department of treasury, they still like making money and such a long recession would cost them big bucks industrially because nobody is buying their toys….the tilt is towards keeping it short,” said Tucker.
Tucker concluded by noting that Bilderberg members seemed grim faced at this year’s meeting and that geopolitically, “Things are going bad for them, Americans are responding, Europeans are responding, and their program is being blocked.”
Woman Cuffed, Arrested for Not Holding Escalator Handrail
The Globe and Mail
May 19, 2009
MONTREAL — Anyone who has ridden an escalator and bothered to pay attention has seen – and likely ignored – little signs suggesting riders hold the grimy handrail.
In Montreal’s subway system, the friendly advice seems to have taken on the force of law, backed by a $100 fine.
Bela Kosoian, a 38-year-old mother of two, says when she didn’t hold the handrail Wednesday she was cuffed, dragged into a small holding cell and fined.
“It was horrible, disgusting behaviour [by police],” said Ms. Kosoian, a 38-year-old student of international law. “I did nothing wrong. They should go find the guys who stole my tires off the balcony.”
Ms. Kosoian, who studies at the Université du Québec à Montreal, was riding an escalator down to catch a 5:30 p.m. subway from the suburb of Laval to an evening class downtown when she started rifling through her backpack looking for a fare.
The Quackery of Chemotherapy, Gunpoint Medicine and the Disturbing Fate of 13-Year-Old Daniel Hauser
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Mike Adams
Natural News
May 21, 20099
You see it in newspapers and websites across the ‘net: People insisting that 13-year-old Daniel Hauser must be injected with chemotherapy in order to “save his life,” and that anyone refusing to go along with that is a criminal deserving of arrest and imprisonment.
What’s most astonishing about the mainstream reaction to the forced chemotherapy of Daniel Hauser is not merely that they believe states now own the children, but that they believe in the entire world there exists but one single treatment for cancer, and it happens to be the one that makes pharmaceutical companies the most money. The arrogance (and ignorance) of that position is mind boggling.
There was once a time when western medical doctors believed that the heavy metal mercury was a medicine, too. They methodically used mercury to treat hundreds of different diseases and conditions, oblivious to the fact that they were actually poisoning people with this toxic heavy metal.
And yet, imagine if authorities had arrested parents for not treating their children with mercury. Imagine if they threw parents in prison for refusing their “mercury medicine.” That would be equivalent to today’s arrogant, misguided and extremely dangerous campaign to outlaw saying “no” to chemotherapy.
A brief history of medical quackery
It was mercury, in fact, that led to the term “quack.” Mercury is called “quicksilver,” and those doctors who prescribed it were eventually discovered to be pushing toxic chemicals rather than any real medicine. They were initially called “quicks” and then later “quacks.”
The quackery of those doctors prescribing mercury wasn’t hard to miss: People taking the mercury would get extremely ill. Their hair would fall out. They would lose their appetite and experience extreme loss of body weight. Many would simply die from the toxicity.
Remarkably, these are the same side effects produced by chemotherapy. And today, chemotherapy doctors describe these side effects in precisely the same terms as the mercury quacks of a century ago, claiming the effects are “part of the healing process” and encouraging patients to find the courage to “just go through with it.”
But let’s pull our heads out of the muck here and acknowledge the obvious:
Poisoning patients — whether with mercury or chemotherapy — will never produce healing. And the prescribing of such toxic chemicals to patients is little more than sophisticated quackery, backed by seemingly convincing data (which is actually based on scientific fraud) along with the urgings of cancer doctors who rely on highly manipulative fear tactics to corral patients into treatments that will only harm them.
Do parents have the right to protect their children from poison?
Today, the mother of 13-year-old Daniel Hauser is on the run, having skipped out on the Minnesota court that ordered her to poison her own child. She is now considered criminally negligent by the state — a parent who belongs behind bars and will likely be imprisoned when she is arrested at gunpoint.
And yet, I ask you this: What else could she have done? To appear in court and submit her child to chemical injections of a toxic substance would amount to child abuse. She is doing what any sensible parent would do: She’s protecting her child from the poisons of the world, and standing up against the tyrants of modern medicine who so desperately seek to exploit her child for profit that they have actually turned to enforcing their business at gunpoint in order to do so.
It is interesting that pharmaceutical medicine is the only industry in America that’s forced to recruit its patients at gunpoint.
I call it Gunpoint Medicine, and it is exactly as it sounds: The enforcing of medical quackery at gunpoint.
TOUGH LIFE BEING A BLACK CITIZEN OF BARBADOS WITH A FOREIGN ACCENT.
I have been living in Barbados for the past six years and it has been one of the most psychologically abusive experience I have ever had.
My wife is a Barbadian who studied at the University and lived with me at home in Jamaica for six years where she was employed by the ministry of health. She is a professional and so am I. I had no knowledge of Barbados before I met her and based on my experiences with her I determined that the majority of Barbadians have got to be nice hospitable people.
I was the one who wanted to experience Barbados and now I understand why she asked me if I was certain that I wanted us to relocate there. I told her that she was willing to live with me in Jamaica so why not?
I am still trying to get used to the people and strugle daily to tailor my responses in a way that will be unconfrontational. However it is not an easy task as I am told regularly by people that they will send me back home on the boat or report me to immigration. My wife cannot remember being insulted that way in Jamaica. She loves Jamaica and irrespective of the fears of those who have not traveled there, she had a whale of a time and goes there whenever she gets the chance.
Why does everyone want to know why I left Jamaica? Is it a way of telling me that I should have stayed home no matter what contribution I make to Barbados? I have friends who are white Jamaicans and they say that they have no such problem. I wonder what that says about Barbadians? Our motto in Jamaica is “Out of many one people” The colour of a man’s skin does not intimidate me and white people in Jamaica do not exalt themselves above the other races, they know better than to do that.
When foreigners come to Jamaica we do not try to get rid of them, with what is happening in Barbados I think that we accept them too easily.
Barbadians may not travel to Jamaica en-mass but there are a lot of people from other places who have not had us treating them unfriendly.
I do not support people staying illegally in Barbadosbut I was asking a friend why regularise your stay if you are still going to be a 3rd class citizen. Maybe all foreigners should band together and go back home. I wonder if our worth will then be recognized? I pay so much tax and follow all the laws and I get low talk from even guys hustling on the beach.
I don’t think things will change overnight and I tell my children that no matter what they do for Barbados remember where home is and dont believe that because you make a contribution in Barbados that you will ever be one of them.
I have a friend here for 25 years and she is still a foreigner.
Obama Orders Pentagon to “Rejuvenate Contingency Plans” for Iran Attack
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Press TV
May 23, 2009
As Washington gets updates on Israeli plans to strike Iran, US President Barack Obama orders the Pentagon to rejuvenate contingency plans for the use of military in Iran.
Despite the prospects of diplomatic engagement with Tehran over its nuclear program, Defense Secretary and Pentagon chief Robert Gates said Friday that the White House has not ruled out the possibility of a military strike if diplomacy was to fail.
“Presidents always ask their military to have a range of contingency plans available to them,” Gates told NBC television. “And all I would say is that, as a result of our dialogue with the president, we’ve refreshed our plans and all options are on the table.”
In a turnabout from the policies of the Bush administration, President Obama says he seeks to diplomatically engage Iran over its disputed nuclear program.
Iran, which favors diplomacy to resolve the nuclear differences with the West, says the program is directed at the civilian applications of the technology.
The US and Israel, however, accuse the country of seeking military objectives in its pursuit.
The defense secretary’s remarks come shortly after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Washington.
Netanyahu’s visit exposed deep differences between the two administrations over issues such as the stalled peace talks with the Palestinians and the US approach to deal with Iran.
According to the Israeli Radio, Netanyahu told Obama that Israel reserves the right to take unilateral military action against Iran, refusing to make a promise to follow the US lead.
The nuclear issue aside, President Obama’s decision to engage Tehran in direct talks has raised concern in Israel that rapprochement between the two rivals — which have not had diplomatic ties for nearly three decades — would ultimately cool Tel Aviv’s relations with its main ally.
Netanyahu’s visit to the US has raised fears that the US president may have failed to avert an impending war in the volatile Middle East.
Israel, the possessor of Middle East’s sole nuclear arsenal, has long strived to portray Iran as a regime hell-bent on an imminent nuclear war.
Iran says it has no plans to attack any country but continues to beef up its military capabilities to deter threats such as those originating from Israel.
Who is to Blame for the Tent People?
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Garda Ghista
Information Clearing House
May 23, 2009
In America, more and more people are subjected to the humiliation of losing their job, and then when they cannot pay their mortgage they get a fat wad of papers delivered to their door by the local sheriff telling them in brief to pay up or vacate. And then they have to leave or be thrown out of their own home. And then when no job is forthcoming they cannot even downsize to an apartment. They are forced to go to the lowest level of subsistence. They buy a tent and pitch it near some water, maybe a river or a tap somewhere.
I was becoming more and more appalled living in America in 2008 and up to May 2009 and watching more and more “tent cities” springing up across the country. And then as those tent cities get more and more established, at regular intervals, maybe once a month, the local police invade the area and make a brutal sweep of the premises and drive all those tent people out of their tents and onto the road somewhere. And after the police have gone, the people return to what’s left of their tent and their meager possessions. This is America today. It is “poverty amidst plenty.” That phrase is from the 1929 Great Depression. And in 1929 the police conducted the same sweeps that they are doing today across America. Is it not heartbreaking? Or shall we say, does it not make your heart bleed to see this kind of existence of the people?
And now I am in Hyderabad, India. And if you go along Highway 9 which runs through Hyderabad, what do you see? All along the highway, there are vendors selling this and that like nariyal pani – coconut water – or mangoes or colorful little trinkets. But behind those vendors, in a fifteen foot wide corridor running along the wall, are tents. More tents. And these tents have been there forever. They are not so nice as the American tents. They are made of dark green or black pieces of plastic somehow moulded or stuck together in some shape so as to rise a bit above the ground with one opening. And here is where the people live and sleep and go to the bathroom and take bath – but where do they go to the bathroom and where do they take their bath? And where do they cook and eat? In the daytime they are lying in front of their “tents” or sitting and chatting happily. That’s the amazing part of it. If we visit a tent city in America – the newly created tent city – it is sure we will find severe mental depression. Economist Shrii Prabhat R. Sarkar told us that this new Great Depression will be accompanied by severe mental depression. It is but natural. But in Hyderabad, along Highway 9, I don’t yet see that mental depression. And earlier in the 1990s when I used to visit the slums here or see the women breaking stones with axes in the rock quarries, there was no mental depression. Why? I think it is because this was their life from birth. They never knew any other life. They never expected any other life. They lived with No Expectations.
But why should anyone, why should even a single person, be relegated to living in a tent, to living without a bathroom, without running water nearby, to keep themselves clean? Who is to blame that people live in tents? In America I was saying that it is the *&^%$ bankers and speculators who have robbed the country blind and are hence directly responsible for the tent people. But what about India where tent people have lived for decades if not longer? Who is to blame? Is it the sum total of politicians who ruled all those decades and never gave a *&^%$ about the tent people? Then what do we tell to those tent people? Should we not tell them that God never meant for them to live under pieces of plastic along the highway? Should we not tell them that it is the moral responsibility of all political leaders to provide them with food, water, shelter, clothes, soap, health care and education? How do we tell these simple, sweet tent people that there is a better way? How would you tell them? I want to tell them this now, but I don’t know how to start. How do we talk to them in a way that is relevant to their lives? Is it our job then to take away their simple acceptance of their plight and inspire them to demand the minimum necessities from their cold, callous government? Is that our job? Is it our job to take away their simplicity and raise their political consciousness and make them outraged at the economic injustice of their lives? For some reason, i cannot bear their plight and neither can I bear that they accept their plight so happily.
It reminds me of what Professor Muhammad Yunus, Grameen Bank founder, wrote in his autobiography regarding the famine of 1970s in Bangladesh. He would be teaching economic theories to his students inside the classroom, and outside, just at the door, starving men, women and children would just lie down and wait to die. They didn’t fight. They didn’t rebel. They were not even angry with anyone. They accepted everything – even their own vastly premature death.
See how painful also it is to read that 150,000 farmers across India have committed suicide in the past five years to escape the slow and agonizing process of starvation. Easier to die the short agony of poison than the long agony of starvation! But why do they feel no anger? Why don’t they rebel? Is it that they do not know whom to rebel against? That they do not know who is responsible for their tortures and humiliations and finally their starvation? Then again, isn’t it our duty to tell them who is responsible? Isn’t it our duty to inspire them to fight back? Did wealthy people ever distribute their wealth voluntarily to the downtrodden? No. They only distribute when the poor demand it. So why not all of us go and meet the tent people and tell them that they do not need to live like this, that the immoral, indifferent, heartless politicians are responsible, and that they should fight those politicians, remove them from power and bring moralists to power who have hearts full of love for the common people. And whoever has a conscience, whoever loves morality should join them in that fight and guide them and become one with them.
Prolife:
Your simple statement of facts will not counteract the media’s out and out determination to portray Iran as a global threat.
Shout it loud, Israel has at least 170 undeclared nuclear weapons, and refuses to admit such, and refuses to sign up to the anti-proliferation treaty.
Who zooming who?
BTW: BFP that is not an anti-semitic comment, merely stating facts.
Dale, your friend could live in Barbados for 50 years and she will still be thought of as an outsider. A small, closed, insular society with even smaller, closed, insular minds.
The media is controlled and is designed to brain wash those who don’t like to think for themselves. I alway tell people to do their own research instead of sitting down in front of the idiot box and sucking in every thing CNN, FOX, MSNBC and the lot says.
The Caribbean has a history of insularity. There was a time when Bajans were called “small islanders” by Jamaicans,Trindadians and Guyanese.
Even today they make jokes about how small Barbados is.
Bajans are a proud people and some are now uncomfortable with the large “immigrant” population.
Traditionally immigrants have maintained their identities.
The Indians support causes as a group.
The Syrians same.
For example Women’s Clubs include: Canadian Women’s Club, Guyanese Women’s Association, Indian Ladies’ Association, Syrian Lebanese Women’s Association, Trinidad & Tobago Women’s Club.
Prehaps most foreigners prefer their identity to remain their country of birth.
For sure, I now believe that we will see a full blown Middle East was within five to ten years.
I know that persons have been predicting a war ‘eventually’, but in my opinion the signs are indicating impending action.
The things impacting such are:
- lack of teeth, I would rather say, intent, on the part of the United Nations or participants therein, to take charge as a global unit in addressing strife and bringing a community approach to a multi-nation problem
- that certain countries i.e. Afghanistan, Pakistan and undoubtedly more to follow, probably Saudi next, losing political and ultimately military control, have no doubt that this is part of a plan, by militant forces, call them what you will, to destabilise the status quo and bring change to the Middle East, albeit, resulting in a catalysmic war in the near future.
- while I agree that it appears ‘unfair’ that Israel, India, Pakistan have nuclear capability yet we ask the others to restrain, the reality is that proliferation will certainly result in use. This is not a playground quarrel about unfair distribution of toys and sweets, but a decision that may result in the complete wipe out of the Middle East and adverse result for all of us. Therefore, I still believe that there should be restraint in allowing more countries to obtain these weapons, particularly when persons who have exhibited willingness to commit extreme actions with little provocation, are coming close to control of these nations.
- have no doubt that the ‘peak oil’ issue will, out of necessity, result in whatever decisions major nations make, to wit, ensuring their continued supply of that mineral, in spite of changing circumstances in the Middle East.
We live in interesting times, one thing I will say is that I will not support the deaths of young people, fighting in any ill-conceived war for political gain,
particularly when the ‘agendas’ behind these actions are highly questionable.
I maintain that the United Nations should be the machine to address international conflict, however, this mode of action may not suit some.
Many will say, that the United Nations have proven toothless, I say, why?
Intent of the participants, can affect the strength of any organisation and I have come to believe that the United Nations military abilites may have been scuttled, out of self-interest of participants.
Unfortunately, if one takes that view, then the outcome of future political actions is not so promising.
What it boils down to, is that we must try to become as self-sufficient as possible, in what little time remains before the whole mess, hits the proverbial fan.
Peace & Live Strong
Oops, end of 5th para ‘resulting in a cataclysmic war in the near future’.
Prolife,
The tent cities readily showpiece the result of revolting greed that has created the current scenario.
Ultimately, things will change, nature abhors a vacuum and such has been created by this latest mess.
How the change will come, will be seen. It may be slow, or, if things get much worse, which is still a real possibility, things may not be so pretty at all, in the West and in the East.
Some starving people, who were downtrodden from the beginning, will lie down and die.
However, some, who are educated and have more ‘foundation’, will not.
Which is why so many dictators and oppressionists keep their citizens poor and uneducated, easier to control.
A lot resides on the approach to this crisis, a whole way of life.
Peace
Obama: We Are Broke. Well, Duh!
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Bill Anderson
Lew Rockwell
May 23, 2009
I am utterly amazed at the continued arrogance of the Obama administration, which has managed to make the Bush administration look to be prudent, which is a major accomplishment. Obama tells C-SPAN that “We are out of money,” but then claims that this is because the government had not taken over healthcare. (I’d hate to see our medical system when government actually does completely control it, given that it pretty much is a government-run system now.)
His comments simply are stunning:
So we’ve got a short-term problem, which is we had to spend a lot of money to salvage our financial system, we had to deal with the auto companies, a huge recession which drains tax revenue at the same time it’s putting more pressure on governments to provide unemployment insurance or make sure that food stamps are available for people who have been laid off.
So we have a short-term problem and we also have a long-term problem. The short-term problem is dwarfed by the long-term problem. And the long-term problem is Medicaid and Medicare. If we don’t reduce long-term health care inflation substantially, we can’t get control of the deficit.
So, one option is just to do nothing. We say, well, it’s too expensive for us to make some short-term investments in health care. We can’t afford it. We’ve got this big deficit. Let’s just keep the health care system that we’ve got now.
Along that trajectory, we will see health care cost as an overall share of our federal spending grow and grow and grow and grow until essentially it consumes everything…
Yes, this is an administration that when it found out we were in a deep recession has turned on the Federal Reserve spigots at full blast and is throwing money around. Now that the U.S. Dollar is tanking, suddenly they realize they are painted into a corner.
What to do? It is obvious; pour another round of drinks, have a toga party, and print more money. When prices of goods skyrocket upwards, Obama will blame business (and especially the oil companies), and the media and most of the country will slavishly believe him.
Definition of a domestic terrorist in the Great USA.
those who oppose abortion, those who have a ron paul bumper sticker on their vehicle, those who disagree with the government, those who oppose the rfid chip, those who oppose world government, those who love liberty, Those who support Ron Paul
Israel to ignite all-out regional war?
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Press TV
May 25, 2009
The Israeli military holds its most extensive nationwide drill, signaling its intentions for a possible attack on Iran which they admit can ignite an all-out war in the region.
The nationwide exercise “Turning Point 3″ will begin on May 31 and will last five days, Ynetnews reported.
During the drill, Israeli forces and civilians will exercise a war against Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria and Iran and will also practice counterinsurgency tactics against Israeli Arabs.
Last week, Israel’s Air Force held a three-day drill to exercise possible missile and air strikes by regional countries — a clear warning to regional foes such as Syria and Iran.
Israel’s hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Sunday’s cabinet meeting tried to placate Israel’s regional countries, saying “this is a routine drill, which was planned several months ago and is held every year in order to coordinate between civil and military systems.”
Tel Aviv accuses Tehran of nuclear weapons development – a charge rejected by both Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog, which has so far made over 14 snap inspections of the country’s nuclear facilities.
This is while Tel Aviv is widely regarded as the sixth-largest nuclear power in the world and the sole possessor of an atomic arsenal in the Middle East.
In the early 1970s, Israel had already developed missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads to most countries in the region, including Iran and Russia.
Moreover, Israel reportedly houses at least 100 bunker-busting bombs, which come in the form of laser-guided mini-nukes with the ability of penetrating underground targets.
The right-leaning government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly threatened to bomb Iran’s enrichment facilities out of existence.
I too was flummoxed when reading that the Obama adminstration was studying potential activity towards Iran, due to Israel’s own perceived impending actions.
To my belief, the much greater threat to Middle East peace lies in the obviously planned, current and underway, strategic destabilisation of Pakistan, by extremist forces, which would probably be the first step towards widespread Middle East destabilisation and ultimately conflict with Israel and the West, by the new ‘insurgency’.
This is so obvious to me, that I cannot see how the major Governments are either missing it, ignoring it, or afraid to do anything to upset the Pakistan Government in addressing this issue.
Nevertheless, as is said, there is more in the mortar than the pestle, so there may be additional factors that are impacting these decisions, some altruistic, some definitely not.
As I said above however, we need to get our house in order, before international calamity strikes and supplies of important products are limited or non-existent.
Peace & Live Strong
Obama’s youth brigade
http://www.infowars.com/the-obama-youth-corps-and-the-wave/
A Reference Interconnection Offer might not mean a whole lot to many people but it can have a significant impact on new services and the extent to which there is competition in communications.
LIME is at the centre of a RIO consultation and a series of documents on services such as overseas calling. Companies have to interconnect so that customers of one company may communicate with those of another, for example Digicel, TeleBarbados, LIME and Blue Communications, which is offering a competitive long distance card to make calls.
In addition, the new charges could also relate to new services, since they also involve interconnection and payments between these companies to terminate calls.
Essentially, LIME is trying to get the best deal for itself while other parties want to ensure that the decisions taken by the Fair Trading Commission do not disadvantage them financially and their ability to compete and offer better rates where possible.
In March the FTC received submissions in response to LIME’s proposals from my business consultancy, CARITEL, TeleBarbados, Digicel and Blue Communications.
Well, on Friday we all received what was submitted by the parties as well as the responses of LIME.
A public consultation will be held on June 19th when only these parties will have a chance to re-iterate their positions, provide any additional information on the issues raised or raise new related issues.
In the case of the latter the Commission has given all parties until June 5th, a day over one week, to provide a written summary and submit to all parties.
Now if this isn’t highly unreasonable I don’t know what is.
We are expected in our case with limited resources to read all the documents, do research and respond by then.
But this is how the Fair Trading Commission goes about its business while refusing to provide a lot of basic information when it is requested to do so.
Hallam Hope
caritel@hallamhope.com
(246) 822-1414
American capitalism gone with a whimper
http://english.pravda.ru/opinion/columnists/107459-0/
I saw that prolife. Not a bad article by the KGB
decline if the dollar
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=a3X76sjV801Y&refer=worldwide
what r we seeing now nothing new just continued
is this free press or “D” press
Have a look at the thumping that BFP gives to PM Thompson and Opposition leader Mottley and answer your own stupid question.
Since when can a man on holiday be at his office, at parliament and at home while enjoying time with his family?
Is a man not entitled to take some time with his family. What about the Trinidadian President who continued his holiday while the entire Integrity committee resigned duirng his absence and refused to return?
It’s interesting how the holiday of a parliamentarian has created such national interest when we have so many national issues… hmm…
Religious Freedom in Canada
http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/persecution/pch0080.html
Barbadian cancer patients should be prepared for further medical isotope shortages at their hospitals as the Chalk River nuclear reactor here in Canada, which produces 1/3 of all medical isotopes in the world, has once again shutdown. Canada’s PM Stephen Harper says that it is possible the Chalk River site will not be reopened. I surely hope that the Minister of Health for Barbados has searched out other suppliers.
Free Speech in the USA Dwindling
Fired Because of Endgame
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Aimee Rabon, and Lisa Livgren
Prisonplanet.com
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Bill of Rights, Amendment 1 of the Constitution states: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
The first Amendment was not meant to cover only “polite speech” but more so disagreeable speech.
Lately, in this country it has been hard to freely voice your opinions. You have to look in dark corners which the media has shunned, in order to find a voice that speaks the truth. It seems that the moment you say, or even THINK a word you get added to a list, or censored immediately!
Two weeks ago, we worked as custodians at a pharmaceutical distribution company. There was no dress code, and we worked after hours when there were little to no people around. We were constantly told what a fantastic job we were doing up until the day of the “t-shirt incident.”
(ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW)
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
We wore an Endgame t-shirt to work. There was absolutely nothing offensive about this t-shirt, yet we had offended a couple of fuzzy, Birkenstock wearing women, who had pictures of Obama, and his family plastered all over their desks.
The front of the t-shirt said: Endgame Blueprint for Global Enslavement. The back of the shirt had a quote from the documentary that had said: “We are not your slaves!”
We were fired for wearing our opinion on a t-shirt. Before this “t-shirt incident” we knew freedom of speech had already started to diminish. We now know for sure that it’s nearly a thing of the past. We continue the fight for free speech, and the truth. We also continue to wear our Endgame t-shirts, to show our support for this documentary!
We may not have lived in the days of our Founding Fathers, but we know that this country is not what it used to be!
To end it all here is quote from Benjamin Franklin:
Outside Independence Hall when
the Constitutional Convention of 1787 ended,
Mrs. Powel of Philadelphia asked Benjamin Franklin,
“Well, Doctor, what have we got, a republic or a monarchy?”
With no hesitation whatsoever, Franklin responded,
“A republic, if you can keep it.”
Rumple, I’ back !
Have to ever read ‘Apocalypse’, by D.H.Lawrence? The book ‘reach out and find me’ in a second hand bookshop in a small English village -town. Strange how such a writer,whose fiction I mostly have , should have written such a book, striking my own chords about the joy of living ‘ breast to breast with the cosmos’. You must read ‘Apocalypse’, if you have not. It’s Lawrence’s last blast before he died aged 44, against materialism and intellectual modern man, his poetical commentary on the Book of Revelation,…. and why we have lost our natural souls. 126 pages, is all.
Listening to talk about depression, locally and on CNN, FOX NEWS, and the BBC, nobody seems inclined to point out the simple.
A good walk or jog, or both daily, is worth much more than all the ‘shrinks’ and pills, you could ever find. But telling people this, is bad business, obviously. So pay through your nose, if you insist.
National Service
Colin,
Thanks, I will get it and read. Hope you had a good break, sounds so.
I myself have not been in here regularly the past two weeks.
Peace
Obama blocks list of visitors to White House
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Bill Dedman
MSNBC
June 16, 2009
The Obama administration is fighting to block access to names of visitors to the White House, taking up the Bush administration argument that a president doesn’t have to reveal who comes calling to influence policy decisions.
Despite President Barack Obama’s pledge to introduce a new era of transparency to Washington, and despite two rulings by a federal judge that the records are public, the Secret Service has denied msnbc.com’s request for the names of all White House visitors from Jan. 20 to the present. It also denied a narrower request by the nonpartisan watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, which sought logs of visits by executives of coal companies.
CREW says it will file a lawsuit Tuesday against the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Secret Service. (Updated: Here’s a copy of CREW’s complaint.)
Using dialup is now so slow, having dropped from 50bps to 24, it now takes several minutes to get to the bottom of this page ( ‘About us and submissions’ ) to get up to the date on contributions. Looks like we’re being forced into the higher price of broadband, by hook, more by crook.
Well there are other ways out, for those of us who cannot continue paying more and more for everything like this, when it should be costing less and less, like it is in other places in the world.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2009/jun/16/blogging-cop-found-out
HI BFP
Dont know where else to post this link, but thought youd find it interesting – and ominous.
Thanks RN,
We saw that earlier and there have been several similar cases lately. We have always practiced safe blogging (Auntie Moses says “Always use an anonymous proxy and a secure tunnel when blogging!”)
Right now a check of this comment would show that it was posted through a small town in Georgia, USA. They have tried to find us for three and a half years and perhaps they will someday, but so far our techniques have held up.
Thanks for the concern though!
Cash to become extinct as chips take off
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,25637102-5014239,00.html
I’ve been amused. Barbados like Lebanon has a problem with how to re-write its own history.
But it is easy ! Follow, truthfully, the course of events, and judge from the results. Barbados does not have anything to be disgraced about. In fact, it is a model for the greater part of the world.
In 1969, Rockefeller Official Said US Would Be De-industrialized
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Henry Makow
June 23, 2009
On March 20, 1969, Dr. Richard Day, the National Medical Director of the Rockefeller-sponsored “Planned Parenthood” told a meeting that American industry will be sabotaged and shown to be uncompetitive.
In view of the recent bankruptcy of General Motors, his remarks are especially pertinent.
“The stated plan was that different parts of the world would be assigned different roles of industry and commerce in a unified global system. The continued preeminence of the United States and the relative independence and self-sufficiency of the United States would have to be changed… in order to create a new structure, you first have to tear down the old, and American industry was one example of that.”
“Each part of the world will have a specialty and thus become inter-dependent, he said. The US will remain a center for agriculture, high tech, communications, and education but heavy industry would be “transported out.”
These remarks to the Pittsburgh Pediatric Society were reported by Dr. Lawrence Dunegan, a Pittsburgh pediatrician who died in Jan. 2004. The speech described “A New World System” already in place which would permanently transform the world.
Dr. Day wanted the 80 or so physicians present to be prepared. The transcript of Dunegan’s recollections has been posted here and should be read in full. However, I’ll provide a summary here.
Much of what Day promised in 1969 is looking like a rear-view mirror today. But ominous events have yet to transpire. They do want to implant a chip in us so they can find and identify us, as well as monitor and control our purchases.
They are weaning us off national allegiance and will resort to terrorism to win our assent to their global police state. They may use “one or two nuclear bombs to convince people we mean business,” Day said.
He refrained from mentioning who “we” are but said the names are recognizable. Given that he worked for the Rockefellers, I assume he meant the Rockefellers and their bosses, the Rothschilds.
This adds weight to the widely-held view that the central bankers are responsible for most terrorism, using MI-6, Mossad and the CIA. Dr. Day also said that “war is obsolete” given the danger of nuclear exchange so terrorism would be used instead. This was 1969.
He said that there are always two reasons for anything the Rockefellers do: the pretext which makes it palatable to the gullible public and the real reason. Thus, as I argued in my book “Cruel Hoax” (2007), we are being turned into homosexuals in the name of “women’s and gay rights.” Gender-neutered and promiscuous, fewer people are able to bond permanently with a member of the opposite sex for the purpose of procreation.
Dr. Day said sex will be separated from marriage and reproduction ( i.e. “sexual liberation”) to break up the family and reduce population. Abortion, divorce and homosexuality will be made socially acceptable.
“Homosexuals will be given permission to act out. Everyone including the elderly will be encouraged to have sex. It will be brought out into the open. Anything goes.” [The "Stonewall Riots" which unleashed the "gay rights" movement, took place three months later.] The ultimate goal is to have sex without reproduction. Reproduction without sex will occur in laboratories. Family size will be limited as in China.
It will be made more difficult for families to stay together. More women will work outside the home and more people will remain single. Sports instead of dolls will be promoted to girls so they will seek achievement instead of family. Girls will be taught they are the same as boys.
In general, international sports like soccer and hockey will be pushed so Americans will see themselves as “world citizens.” American sports like baseball and football will not be similarly encouraged.
Pornography, violence and obscenity on TV and in movies will be increased. People will be desensitized to violence and porn and made to feel life is short, precarious and brutish. Music will “get worse” and will be used for indoctrination.
There will be unemployment and mass migration in order to uproot long established (conservative) communities. Social change will be introduced in port cities and work its way to the heartland. (Thus, the east and west coast are liberal.)
He said a cure to cancer exists in the Rockefeller Institute but is kept secret for purposes of depopulation. He said there will be an increase in infectious man-made diseases.
Dr. Day, who worked in weather modification during the war, said weather can be used to wage war or create drought and famine. The food supply will be monitored so no one can get enough food to “support a fugitive from the New System.” Growing your own food will be outlawed under the pretext of it being unsafe.
He said people are controlled by means of the information they are given. Thus, information will be selective. Not everyone will be allowed to own books. “Certain books will disappear from libraries.” Literary classics will be subtly altered. People will spend longer in school but not learn anything. There will be restrictions on travel; and private home ownership will disappear.
He said people who don’t want to go along will be “disposed of humanely.” He said there will be no martyrs–”people will just disappear.”
Our political and cultural “leaders” are accomplices in a plot to re-engineer humanity to serve the Judeo-Masonic central banking cartel. Wars, terrorism, depressions, political and social change, entertainment and fads are all contrived to gradually bring about an Orwellian police state.
Dr. Day says politicians are manipulated “without their even knowing it.” Their failure to protect us from this Satanic conspiracy is a betrayal of the first order. We have to alert the sincere ones and reach soldiers and police too. Civilization hangs in the balance. We are in real danger and should organize in small independent units.
People are hurting now and are more receptive to this information. This “economic downturn” is deliberate and part of the police state agenda. We have to educate people who think these events are random. The Rockefellers and their traitorous lackeys won’t bring this off if the intelligentsia and masses are aware of the truth.
Progressives and Leftists need to learn that “progress” and “change” really refer to totalitarian world government. This is the change they “believe in.” Dr. Day said in 1969, “people will have to get used to constant change.” I used to be a Liberal-Leftist myself. If I can see the real meaning of “changing the world,” others can too.
We also have to take practical steps to defend ourselves, our families and our freedom.
Our society and culture are a fraud based on one central fraud, the monopoly over government credit in the hands of Cabalist private bankers. They are using this power to extend their monopoly over every aspect of our lives by manipulating world events and social behavior. The only way to save civilization from failure is to nationalize the Central Banks.
http://www.larouchepac.com/lpactv?nid=10735
http://www.larouchepac.com/lpactv?nid=10815
Recycling, boosting the sea’s food chain.
The sun hadn’t yet reached up to horizon’s lip when I met Samuel on the beach. He stunk of strong rum and half the beer in Bridgetown.
“ I could’nt sleep,” he said through puffed grey hard- seeing eyes, his face lined like the Orinoco delta, his nearly white beard bedraggled like a heap of wet cane chaff. He was a ‘dropout’ professor of anthropology.
“What have you thought of this time,” I asked, hesitantly. You never knew what you’d get out of Samuel when he’d been doing his best to drink down the town all night. Drinking loosens his brain waves, if you get what I mean.
“The fish,” he says. “This time it’s to do with the fish, and how we should think about giving back to the sea what we take from her daily. Fish stocks ‘going through’ on a world scale, as you know.” he says.
“Fish stocks, timber from the Amazon, petroleum, fresh water, ….” I was about giving him my list.
“And the main reason,” he cut across my words like a cutlass swipe, and repeated,
“ And the main reason ?” His blood shot eyes glared into me for an answer.
“World Human Population spread?” I murmured.
Samuel buried his head in the sea at our feet. Small fish flicked off and away each side of him. And who could blame them? Fish can smell too.
“Think about it, Rawdon, “ he said, spitting out water. He always got my name wrong. “ Instead of us using up timber and holes in the ground to burry ourselves, we need to give our corpses back to the sea.”
Well I’d thought about that myself, several times, so I asked him how he would do it.
“Chum!” He said. “All you need is a powerful grinder about the size of a 747 jet engine, and designed on the same principle. Chum is the answer. The body goes in one end, chum out the other, blasted out into deep sea water, simple! Simple as sprat food ! Done!
“Thrilling,” I said, amused,… pondering.
Samuel had a valid idea. Look at the advantages. Saves timber for billions of coffins, saves the huge amount of energy used in cremation and the carbon exhaust and smog that goes with it, leaves land for farming instead of graveyards, allows the human body to recycle quickly back where it came from, and, above all, feeds the micro organisms at the start of the food chain in the sea.
“ I’ll shake your hand on that one Samuel. But who is going to listen to us?”
“What happens when the crabs and fish all done?” he answers, the glint of early coppery sun giving him the regal glowing charm of a ,… Neptune.
“ I need another drink,” he says. I needed some fresh air, I thought, and wishing him farewell, left him contemplating restless sea.
Mutant swine flu virus weathers medication
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Press TV
June 29, 2009
Danish scientists have traced a new strain of H1N1 influenza, which has shown resistance to the foremost swine flu medication, Tamiflu.
In a Monday statement issued by Denmark’s State Serum Institute, researchers at the center maintained that they anticipated resistance from the virulent virus due to its high mutability powers.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
However, the statement goes on to unwind worries about the newly-discovered case, saying that the carrier of the new strain has almost recovered from the illness.
Earlier in June, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) had raised the swine flu pandemic alert level to 6, the highest level for governments, and had asked people across the globe to remain vigilant for symptoms of the infection.
So far 311 people have lost their lives to the disease, which entails harsh respiratory problems, high body temperature, and other severe flu-like indications.
The latest WHO figures put the number of the people with the viral contagion at over 70,000 infections in 113 countries.
The latest H1N1 statistics reveal that the contagion’s death toll has outnumbered fatalities caused by the avian flu in recent years.
Experts warn that the latest pandemic, unprecedented in over four decades, could bring about more losses of lives before a proper way to fight the pathogen is determined.
Israel Kidnaps Cynthia McKinney, Human Rights Workers
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The Free Gaza Movement
June 30, 2009
Today Israeli Occupation Forces attacked and boarded the Free Gaza Movement boat, the SPIRIT OF HUMANITY, abducting 21 human rights workers from 11 countries, including Noble laureate Mairead Maguire and former U.S. Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney. The passengers and crew are being forcibly dragged toward Israel.
“This is an outrageous violation of international law against us. Our boat was not in Israeli waters, and we were on a human rights mission to the Gaza Strip,” said Cynthia McKinney, a former U.S. Congresswoman and presidential candidate. “President Obama just told Israel to let in humanitarian and reconstruction supplies, and that’s exactly what we tried to do. We’re asking the international community to demand our release so we can resume our journey.”
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
According to an International Committee of the Red Cross report released yesterday, the Palestinians living in Gaza are “trapped in despair.” Thousands of Gazans whose homes were destroyed earlier during Israel’s December/January massacre are still without shelter despite pledges of almost $4.5 billion in aid, because Israel refuses to allow cement and other building material into the Gaza Strip. The report also notes that hospitals are struggling to meet the needs of their patients due to Israel’s disruption of medical supplies.
“The aid we were carrying is a symbol of hope for the people of Gaza, hope that the sea route would open for them, and they would be able to transport their own materials to begin to reconstruct the schools, hospitals and thousands of homes destroyed during the onslaught of “Cast Lead”. Our mission is a gesture to the people of Gaza that we stand by them and that they are not alone” said fellow passenger Mairead Maguire, winner of a Noble Peace Prize for her work in Northern Ireland.
Just before being kidnapped by Israel, Huwaida Arraf, Free Gaza Movement chairperson and delegation co-coordinator on this voyage, stated that: “No one could possibly believe that our small boat constitutes any sort of threat to Israel. We carry medical and reconstruction supplies, and children’s toys. Our passengers include a Nobel peace prize laureate and a former U.S. congressperson. Our boat was searched and received a security clearance by Cypriot Port Authorities before we departed, and at no time did we ever approach Israeli waters.”
Arraf continued, “Israel’s deliberate and premeditated attack on our unarmed boat is a clear violation of international law and we demand our immediate and unconditional release.”
For the water rate to be increased by 60% shows me that my Goverment seems to have lost its way. For Mr Benn to say that it will make Bajans use less water is a sorry excuse. My family does not waste water and pays it bill on time each month like most other families and for us to find more than half each month to pay this bill is wrong, nothing more than wrong. I hope that this increase is re-examined.
Rumboy,
There is a partial way out, and I don’t know what Barbadians have against it. This fear of rainwater is not seen in other islands. Use rain water, carefully filtered from your roof, into your drum or tank. Make sure the drum or tank has a top. Millions of people world wide use rainwater. It is much purer than most ground water in the world today.
Does Earth Benifit from Mankind ???
For some years now, following the perpetual world news from various stations and newspapers, I keep being struck by a question:
While we are, or should be, well aware that nature, all flora and fauna, including living or near living micro-organisms, live in perfect complimentary symbiosis with the Earth and the Earth systems, the same can in no way be said of Mankind.
So I’m pondering is just what way the Earth benefits by having Mankind around, with his ever-growing numbers to the point the Earth system is growning, suffering, from vaste pollution, man caused earth devastation, striping of forests and seas, million thousands daily garbage tons.
The negative effects on the Earth by Mankind, grows by the hour and minute. We can exclude tribal people, who live within nature and fully understand her.
Though Christian religions will, in their own peculiar way, hold their score over what I have written, if they bother, it is difficult to give Mankind any marks, or point out any positive effect Mankind makes on the Earth.
Perhaps we are just along for the ride with the hope of a better world to come, where we can sit around and eat ice cream,…. and everything is hunkydorry.
So what do you propose should be done with mankind, and since you are questioning the benefits of having mankind around, what have you contributed? What should be done with you if it is discovered that you have not in anyway benefited mother Gaia earth either ?
Global Warming
Prolife. Good. I got reaction from somebody, at last!
I’d suggest you read back much of what I have written about the way we treat Gaia. I suppose you have read the book, itself ? I’ll lend you a copy if you have not.
Yet, I’m guilty, having drilled much of the energy that has helped fuel the world that allows people to drive around in huge SUVs ( which I don’t myself drive). Niether do I spread garbage all over the countryside, but I pick up what find, and so on.
Yes, I’m guilty too, but steadily more aware than most. Does that admittance suit you ?
I am, of course, Pro life too, but pro ALL of life, all living things in every way, on land, sea, and in the deep abysmal trenches. That is my main reason for writing.
We tend to conveniently forget that without all of live, the biodiversity, we would not survive either. It is not from our own lives comes our oxygen, for instance, but you’d have known that, if you had read Gaia.
Nobody but an idiot would not be concerned about human population growth. What are you going to do about that , Pro Life ? Or do you assume the finite Earth swells, making more room for people, as the world population grows into the multi billions ?
I hope we can be friends, non the less, though we have nothing to do with making the oxygen we both breath, and even less to do with pollination.
Colin
Token Royalty? Queen Elizabeth II the largest landowner on Earth
Who Owns the World
July 7, 2009
Queen Elizabeth II, head of state of the United Kingdom and of 31 other states and territories, is the legal owner of about 6,600 million acres of land, one sixth of the earth’s non ocean surface.
She is the only person on earth who owns whole countries, and who owns countries that are not her own domestic territory. This land ownership is separate from her role as head of state and is different from other monarchies where no such claim is made – Norway, Belgium, Denmark etc.
The value of her land holding. £17,600,000,000,000 (approx).
This makes her the richest individual on earth. However, there is no way easily to value her real estate. There is no current market in the land of entire countries. At a rough estimate of $5,000 an acre, and based on the sale of Alaska to the USA by the Tsar, and of Louisiana to the USA by France, the Queen’s land holding is worth a notional $33,000,000,000,000 (Thirty three trillion dollars or about £17,600,000,000,000). Her holding is based on the laws of the countries she owns and her land title is valid in all the countries she owns. Her main holdings are Canada, the 2nd largest country on earth, with 2,467 million acres, Australia, the 7th largest country on earth with 1,900 million acres, the Papua New Guinea with114 million acres, New Zealand with 66 million acres and the UK with 60 million acres.
She is the world’s largest landowner by a significant margin. The next largest landowner is the Russian state, with an overall ownership of 4,219 million acres, and a direct ownership comparable with the Queen’s land holding of 2,447 million acres. The 3rd largest landowner is the Chinese state, which claims all of Chinese land, about 2,365 million acres. The 4th largest landowner on earth is the Federal Government of the United States, which owns about one third of the land of the USA, 760 million acres. The fifth largest landowner on earth is the King of Saudi Arabia with 553 million acres
Largest five personal landowners on Earth:
Queen Elizabeth II 6,600 million acres
King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia 553 million acres
King Bhumibol of Thailand 126 million acres
King Mohammed IV of Morocco 113 million acres
Sultan Quaboos of Oman 76 million acres
Colin, how right you are. Other islands such as Bequia have cisterns and depend on rain water. The technology is not difficult. If you can’t afford the cost of a cement cistern then just use plastic drums. Guttering and piping from the roof is not that expensive. Roof water can be used for bathing, washing clothes, washing dishes and other household chores. Just use the tap water for drinking.
credit crisis pt 1
credit crisis pt 2
BFP,
This site is wiping out submissions when Submit is pressed. We’ve lost two in the last four days.
Brits Tell Goons With Needles To Stick It Where The Sun Don’t Shine
Respondents to newspaper story say they will refuse to take shot as health authorities insist “all Brits” will take swine flu vaccine
Paul Joseph Watson
Prison Planet.com
Sunday, July 12, 2009
The trial balloon went up today on the UK government’s efforts to impose a mass mandatory vaccination program against swine flu, but judging from the response on a major newspaper website, millions of British citizens will tell the goons with needles to stick it where the sun don’t shine.
Sky News reports today that, “The entire population could be vaccinated against swine flu as health chiefs draw up plans to build a nationwide immunity to the disease.”
According to health authorities, they plan to have 60 million plus UK citizens vaccinated by this time next year, despite the fact that only one healthy person has died from swine flu in Britain.
The resounding response to the government’s efforts to prepare everyone to accept the shot is a vehement, “I don’t think so!”
Respondents to a London Times article concerning the fact that the vaccine will be rushed through safety procedures in just five days, increasing the chances of it causing deaths and injuries in the thousands, as happened with the 1977 mass vaccination program in the U.S. which killed more people than the actual swine flu virus, overwhelmingly indicated that they would refuse to take the shot.
“Nobody’s coming anywhere near me or my family with their experimental mass vaccine/poison programme,” wrote one. “We will take our chances of catching their manufactured bird/pig/human virus, that was accidentally on purpose! released onto an unsuspecting public in the first place!”
“Anybody who reads this obviously still has the ability to reason and be guided by their own survival instinct and thus should listen to it. The mass fear mongering is a worldwide, co-ordinated and open conspiracy with massive geo political underpinnings. Don’t be fooled, eat properly and exercise,” adds another.
“A vaccine that is – effectively – being tested on the population, the prime reasons for such being the economy and easing pressure on the NHS? I’ll be another one who passes,” comments another.
“Thanks but no thanks. Rushed through tests in 5 days? What about long term effects? Vioxx and Thalidomide had long testing. How safe did they turn out to be? The side effects of Statins that they want everyone to take are worrying. I’ll take my chances with cholesterol,” writes another.
In fact, nearly every one of the respondents to the article so far clearly states that they will refuse to take the shot.
What will the government do when millions of people refuse to take the vaccine? Will they forcibly inject people at gunpoint as health authorities in the U.S. seem to think is constitutional and the right thing to do?
Would you take a vaccine made by a company that got caught contaminating its product with live avian flu virus?
Would you, as an American citizen, take a vaccine from a government that counts amongst its chief scientific advisors a man who once advocated the mass sterilization of the entire U.S. population through the water supply?
I think the answer is clear, U.S. and UK governments – your goons can stick their needles up their backsides because we are not taking it!
This is supposed to be a tropical island in the Caribbean. If you go outside to night, and look up just a little south of overhead, you should see the constellation Scorpio, all of it, with the long curling tail. But we cry about the new energy costs, and our topical night skies that used to be so wonderful, are now obliterated by our own wastefully generated light. So you probably won’t see Scorpio, like you won’t see it in London, New York, or Miami. So why would people come to a tropical islands these days, if the night was part of the thrilling mystery of the trip?
What Lessons Do WE Teach—Another common entrance debacle
A comment seems necessary in response to a full page article on page 12 in the Weekend Nation of Friday July 10th 2009 where parents of a common entrance student and the student himself are so distraught at the prizes he received that they thought it necessary to have it highlighted in the national media.
How disgusting are we becoming. The prize was in response for his good performance even though by their own admission he was not the top performer at the school. Son, it was the thought that mattered. Surely the child did not visit the Nation on his own so thus the parents must be responsible for this inconceivable error in not being able to teach that child that the value in the prize should not be measured in dollars.
It is also noteworthy that the Ministry of Education does not provide funding for graduations, and thus if principals, teachers and parents volunteer to raise funds for these events then it must be understood that such resources are limited.
It is a pity that principals are not allowed by the Ministry of Education to comment in the media as I am sure that the other side of the story would have been told.
The fly on the wall however reported that the student threw back the books at the principal, (who by the way is still in possession of them) in the presence of the parents.
As a person who has been in the system for over 30 years I can assure readers that this is not an isolated case.
Health Care Bill Will Fund State Vaccine Teams to Conduct ‘Interventions’ in Private Homes
Health Care Bill Will Fund State Vaccine Teams to Conduct ‘Interventions’ in Private Homes
Thursday, July 16, 2009
By Terence P. Jeffrey, Editor-in-Chief
President Barack Obama announces Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, left, as his nominee for Health & Human Services Secretary, Monday, March 2, 2009, in the East Room at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)(CNSNews.com) – There is a knock at the front door. Peeking through the window, a mother sees a man and a woman, both in uniform. They are agents of health-care reform.
“Excuse me, ma’am,” says the man. “Our records show that your eleven-year-old daughter has not been immunized for genital warts.”
“And your four-year-old still needs the chicken-pox vaccine,” says the woman.
“He will not be allowed to start kindergarten unless he gets that shot, you know,” says the man—smiling from ear to ear.
“So, can we please come in?” asks the woman. “We have the vaccines right here,” she says, lifting up a black medical bag. “We can give your kids the shots right now.”
“We are from the government,” says the man, “and we’re here to help.”
Is this a scene from the over-heated imagination of an addlepated conspiracy theorist? Or is it something akin to what is actually envisioned by the health-care reform bill approved this week by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee.
The committee’s official summary of the bill says: “Authorizes a demonstration program to improve immunization coverage. Under this program, CDC will provide grants to states to improve immunization coverage of children, adolescents, and adults through the use of evidence-based interventions. States may use funds to implement interventions that are recommended by the Community Preventive Services Task Force, such as reminders or recalls for patients or providers, or home visits.”
Home visits? What exactly is the state going to do when it sends people to “implement interventions” in private homes designed “to improve immunization coverage of children”?
The draft of the bill posted on the committee Web site provides more details.
Title III of the bill is entitled, “Improving the Health of the American People.” It includes four subtitles. They are: “Subtitle A: Modernizing Disease Prevention of Public Health Systems,” “Subtitle B: Increasing Access to Clinical Preventive Services,” “Subtitle C: Creating Healthier Communities,” and “Subtitle D: Support for Prevention and Public Health Information.”
The program authorizing home “interventions” to promote immunizations falls under “Subtitle C: Creating Healthier Communities.” This subtitle directs the secretary of health and human services to “establish a demonstration program to award grants to states to improve the provision of recommended immunizations for children, adolescents, and adults through the use of evidence-based, population-based interventions for high-risk populations.”
The bill lists eight specific ways that states may use federal grant money to carry out immunization-promoting “interventions.” Method “E” calls for “home visits” which can include “provision of immunizations.”
Says the draft bill: “Funds received under a grant under this subsection shall be used to implement interventions that are recommended by the Task Force on Community Preventive Services (as established by the secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) or other evidence-based interventions, including—“(A) providing immunization reminders or recalls for target populations of clients, patients, and consumers; (B) educating targeted populations and health care providers concerning immunizations in combination with one or more other interventions; (C) reducing out-of-pocket costs for families for vaccines and their administration; (D) carrying out immunization-promoting strategies for participants or clients of public programs, including assessments of immunization status, referrals to health care providers, education, provision of on-site immunizations, or incentives for immunization;(E) providing for home visits that promote immunization through education, assessments of need, referrals, provision of immunizations, or other services; (F) providing reminders or recalls for immunization providers;(G) conducting assessments of, and providing feedback to, immunization providers; or (H) any combination of one or more interventions described in this paragraph.”
Many vaccines routinely administered to children in the United States are utterly uncontroversial. But in recent years there have been controversies about the chicken pox vaccine and the vaccine for HPV, which causes genital warts, which can cause cervical cancer.
On March 15, 2007, Bloomberg news summarized a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which discovered that the chicken pox vaccine does not provide permanent protection against chicken pox, leaving children who have been immunized vulnerable to getting ill with the virus later in life when it can cause a more serious bout of the disease.
“Merck & Co.’s chickenpox vaccine weakens as children age, possibly leaving them vulnerable to a more serious infection as adults, a U.S.-sponsored study in California found,” reported Bloomberg. “The power of the vaccine, Varivax, the only one available in the United States against chickenpox, starts to fade after five years, according to the study in today’s New England Journal of Medicine. The results suggest that children should get a second dose, which advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended in June.”
Bloomberg quoted the study as saying, “Waning immunity is of particular public health interest because it may result in increased susceptibility later in life, when the risk of severe complications may be greater than that in childhood.”
In March of this year, the Washington Post reported about the controversy sparked when the Merck pharmaceutical company campaigned to have states mandate that school girls receive Gardasil, its vaccine against HPV.
“Merck also began an ambitious marketing campaign and lobbying push to persuade states to add the vaccine to the list of those required for children to attend school,” reported the Post. “But the company eventually abandoned the strategy in the face of an intense backlash from critics who argued that the decision should be left to parents. Although many states considered such mandates, so far only Virginia and the District have imposed one, and [a Merck official] said the company has no plans to pursue that strategy again.”
The Post’s report noted that at least some experts questioned the wisdom of promoting use of the vaccine when its long term impact is still unknown.
“Federal health officials, Merck and others say they are confident that the vaccine is safe,” reported the Post. “But some experts said they are concerned that there is insufficient evidence about how long Gardasil’s protection will last, whether serious side effects will emerge and whether the relatively modest benefits for boys are worth even the small risks associated with any vaccine.”
Baxter Files Swine Flu Vaccine Patent A Year Ahead Of Outbreak
theoneclickgroup.co.uk
Saturday July 18th, 2009
See Baxter Vaccine Patent Application US 2009/0060950 A1
Baxter are nothing if not prepared for this ’swine flu’ outbreak if the wording in this 2008 US patent application is anything to go by:
“In particular preferred embodiments the composition or
vaccine comprises more than one antigen…..such as
influenza A and influenza B in particular selected from of one
or more of the human H1N1, H2N2, H3N2, H5N1, H7N7, H1N2,
H9N2, H7N2, H7N3, H10N7 subtypes, of the pig flu H1N1,
H1N2, H3N1 and H3N2 subtypes, of the dog or horse flu H7N7,
H3N8 subtypes or of the avian H5N1, H7N2, H1N7, H7N3,
H13N6, H5N9, H11N6, H3N8, H9N2, H5N2, H4N8, H10N7, H2N2,
H8N4, H14N5, H6N5, H12N5 subtypes.”
“Suitable adjuvants can be selected from mineral gels,
aluminium hydroxide, surface active substances, lysolecithin,
pluronic polyols, polyanions or oil emulsions such as water in
oil or oil in water, or a combination thereof. Of course the
selection of the adjuvant depends on the intended use.
E.g. toxicity may depend on the destined subject organism
and can vary from no toxicity to high toxicity.”
“Three different influenza strains, two A-strains Hiroshima
(HR, H3N2), a New Calcdonia (NC, H1N1) and a B-strain,
Malaysia (MA), were produced in Vero cell cultures. After
virus propagation the infectious virus harvest is inactivated
prior to purification….”
I’m feeling so much better now that I know we have such competent pharmaceutical companies, well prepared for viral outbreaks at least a year ahead of time…
Now Legal Immunity for Swine Flu Vaccine Makers
Text size
F. William Engdahl
Global Research
July 20, 2009
The US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, has just signed a decree granting vaccine makers total legal immunity from any lawsuits that result from any new “Swine Flu” vaccine. Moreover, the $7 billion US Government fast-track program to rush vaccines onto the market in time for the Autumn flu season is being done without even normal safety testing. Is there another agenda at work in the official WHO hysteria campaign to declare so-called H1N1 virus—which has yet to be rigorously scientifically isolated, characterized and photographed with an electron microscope—the scientifically accepted procedure—a global “pandemic” threat?
With no legal liability, could it be that Baxter is preparing to sell hundreds of millions of doses containing highly toxic aluminium hydroxide as adjuvant?
The current official panic campaign over alleged Swine Flu danger is rapidly taking on the dimensions of a George Orwell science fiction novel. The document signed by Sebelius grants immunity to those making a swine flu vaccine, under the provisions of a 2006 law for public health emergencies.
Not so sage SAGE
That is once the WHO in Geneva, on recommendation of the WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group on Immunizations, declared H1N1 to be Phase 6 or Pandemic, automatic emergency health response programs could be activated even in countries such as Germany where reported outbreaks of even “suspected” H1N1 can be counted to date on the fingers of slightly more than one hand.
The WHO’s SAGE is also worth scrutiny. Its Chairman since 2005 has been the UK Director of Immunization at the British Department of Health, Dr David Salisbury. In the 1980’s Salisbury reportedly drew major fire for backing a massive vaccination of children with a multiple MMR vaccine manufactured by the predecessor company of GlaxoSmithKline. That vaccine was pulled off the market in Japan after significant numbers of children developed adverse reactions to the vaccine and the Japanese government was forced to pay significant compensation to the victims. In Sweden the MMR vaccine of GlaxoSmithKline was removed after scientists linked it to outbreaks of Crohn’s disease. Apparently that had little impact on WHO SAGE chairman Salisbury.
According to one independent UK investigator, Alan Golding, who obtained Freedom of Information documents on the case, in “1986 Trivirix, an MMR compound containing the Mumps Urabe strain AM-9, was introduced in Canada to replace MMR I. Concerns regarding the introduction of MMR in the UK are recorded in the minutes of the Joint Working Party of the British Paediatric Association and the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization (JCVI) Liaison Group on June 26th of that year. Such concerns were soon to prove well grounded, as reports began to come in of an increased incidence of aseptic meningitis in vaccinated individuals. Ultimately, all MMR vaccines containing the Urabe strain of mumps were withdrawn in Canada in early 1988. This was before Urabe containing vaccines were licenced by the Department of Health for use in the UK…”
The report adds, “Smith-Kline—French, the pharmaceutical company who became Smith-Kline-Beecham and were involved in UK manufacture at that time, were concerned about these safety issues and were reluctant to obtain a UK license for their Urabe-containing vaccines. As a result of their ‘concern’ that children might be seriously damaged by one of their products, they requested that the UK government indemnify them against possible legal action that might be taken as a result of ‘losses’ associated with the vaccine, which by then was known to carry significant risk to health. The UK government, advised by Professor Salisbury and representatives from the Department of Health, in it’s enthusiasm to get a cheap MMR onto the market, agreed to this request.”
Today the same Dr Salisbury is advocating global proliferation of untested H1N1 vaccines, also manufactured by the same firm, now called GlaxoSmithKline.
The last phoney Swine Flu Disaster
The last time the US Government faced a new swine flu virus was in 1976. Thousands filed claims contending they suffered side effects from the shots. This time, the government has taken steps to prevent any possible legal remedy should thousands of US citizens suffer severe complications as a result of being given untested vaccines.
In 1976 President Gerald Ford, facing a difficult re-election campaign, was advised by the head of the CDC, David Sencer, to launch a mass national vaccination. As today with H1N1 Swine Flu, Sencer also used the scare of the alleged 1918 flu pandemic. Notably, some scientific researchers maintain that the deaths during the flu wave of 1918-1919, in the aftermath of the ghastly First World War, came not from any virus but from the governmental campaigns of mass vaccination against “Spanish Flu.” Interestingly, the Rockefeller University and Foundation was in the middle of that event as well.
A d v e r t i s e m e n t
Cases of what was then called swine flu were found in soldiers at Fort Dix, N.J. in 1976, including one death. That death, whose true cause is in dispute as the soldier, sick with influenza was put on a forced march despite and fell dead, was used by Sencer to convince Ford to launch one of the most infamous public health fiascos in US history, forcing Sencer’s resignation as CDC head. Federal officials vaccinated 40 million Americans during a national campaign. A pandemic never materialized, but thousands who got the shots filed injury claims, as they contracted a paralyzing condition called Guillain-Barre Syndrome or other side effects. At least 25 people died after receiving the vaccine died and 500 developed Guillain-Barre syndrome, an inflammation of the nervous system which can cause paralysis and be fatal. The US Government was forced to pay damages after vaccination victims made it a national scandal. In the end the 1976 Swine Flu vaccine proved far worse than the disease.
Sencer was fired in 1977 for the fiasco but by then the damage had already been done.
No Safety Test? Don’t worry, be happy…
The story gets worse. Now that the Obama Administration has signed a document of immunity from legal prosecution, the FDA in the United States and UK health authorities have decided to let Big Pharma put vaccine products onto the market before any tests of the possible harmful side effects of the vaccines are even known.
The first doses of swine flu vaccine will be given to the public before full data on its safety and effectiveness become available. The untested “pandemic” vaccines will be spread over two doses in a higher quantity, and one brand reportedly will contain a chemical additive, an adjuvant, to make it “go further,” dramatically potentially increasing the risk of side-effects.
Children will be among those first in line for the shots and may get the vaccine more than a month before trial results are received.
In the UK the government’s National Health Service, NHS, has been ordered to plan for a worst-case scenario in which swine flu might cause 65,000 deaths over the coming winter, including several thousand deaths among children.
The British Government has placed advance orders for 132 million doses of vaccine with two manufacturers, GlaxoSmithKline and Baxter, who have licensed “in advance” three “core” vaccines in preparation for a pandemic, conveniently enough even though we are told by WHO and epidemiologists that we cannot prepare in advance for what could be a more ominous mutation of the currently very mild H1N1 problem.
Curiously enough, a full year before any reported case of the current alleged H1N1, the major pharmaceutical company, Baxter, filed for a patent for H1N1 vaccine: Baxter Vaccine Patent Application US 2009/0060950 A1. Their application states, “the composition or vaccine comprises more than one antigen…..such as influenza A and influenza B in particular selected from of one or more of the human H1N1, H2N2, H3N2, H5N1, H7N7, H1N2, H9N2, H7N2, H7N3, H10N7 subtypes, of the pig flu H1N1, H1N2, H3N1 and H3N2 subtypes, of the dog or horse flu H7N7, H3N8 subtypes or of the avian H5N1, H7N2, H1N7, H7N3, H13N6, H5N9, H11N6, H3N8, H9N2, H5N2, H4N8, H10N7, H2N2, H8N4, H14N5, H6N5, H12N5 subtypes.”
The application further states, “Suitable adjuvants can be selected from mineral gels, aluminium hydroxide, surface active substances, lysolecithin, pluronic polyols, polyanions or oil emulsions such as water in oil or oil in water, or a combination thereof. Of course the selection of the adjuvant depends on the intended use. E.g. toxicity may depend on the destined subject organism and can vary from no toxicity to high toxicity.”
With no legal liability, could it be that Baxter is preparing to sell hundreds of millions of doses containing highly toxic aluminium hydroxide as adjuvant? Perhaps it is time to demand that all leading officials of WHO, SAGE and CDC, the US Obama Administration, Cabinet officials and members of Congress w, the US Obama Administration, Cabinet officials and members of Congress who voted the $7 billion H1N1 emergency funds and who have gone along with the declaration of pharmaceutical company immunity from subsequent prosecution for damage from their products. The same should apply as well for other national health bodies demanding its citizens take the H1N1 vaccine from GlaxoSmithKline or Baxter to see if it is really safe.
And WHO stopped even tracking H1N1
Another indication that the world is being taken for colossal suckers in the entire WHO Swine Flu scare scenario, the WHO itself, the world body entrusted to monitor outbreaks of so-called pandemics or even epidemics worldwide, has just decided to stop tracking Swine Flu or H1N1 Influenza A as they prefer to name it now, so as not to offend Smithfield Foods and other industrialized pig CAFO producers.
The World Health Organization in a “briefing note” posted on their Web site posted the baffling notice that they would no longer track outbreaks of H1N1. The last WHO update, issued July 6, showed 94,512 confirmed cases in 122 countries, with 429 deaths. The WHO apparently claims that the numbers of laboratory-confirmed cases were actually meaningless.
The briefing note said countries would still be asked to report their first few confirmed cases. It also said countries should watch for clusters of fatalities, which could indicate the virus had mutated to a more lethal form. Other “signals to be vigilant for,” it said, were spikes in school absenteeism and surges in hospital visits. The Atlanta CDC has also agreed to the WHO count drop. Dr. Michael T. Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, admits that the existing tests to confirm H1N1 Influenza A are not even certain, but rather hit-or-miss. “Bad measures can be worse than no measures at all,” he stated. So the WHO has decided to drop tests that anyway did not give a scientific picture of who had H1N1 or not, and as well they have decided to drop counting any test results or cases of H1n1 around the world with the comment that “we can assume almost all cases are H1N1 Swine Flu. This is science on which basis we are told to vaccinate our young? Whoah there…Not with our children.
http://blogs.journalism.co.uk/editors/2009/07/24/trinidads-tabloids-scream-loudly-but-barbados-press-could-do-with-some-balls/
http://www.infowars.com/congress-to-fed-whats-in-the-bag/
http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/672988
Prolife,
You know the ironic and somewhat ‘comforting’ thing is?
That whatever scheming certain ‘powers’ get up to, the Almighty, or some would prefer me to say, Nature or whatever, always steps in, eventually, to send plans awry.
Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but one day.
Inevitability of reality.
Peace and Live Strong
Was hoping someone would respond. I agree completely with you.
We’ve only just begun
http://www.infowars.com/weve-only-just-begun/
Illinois Army National Guard Puts Military War Machines on the Streets
http://www.infowars.com/illinois-army-national-guard-puts-military-war-machines-on-the-streets/
I have a query about the cost (i.e. school fees) in the 1930′s & 40′s but I am not sure how many are still around that could give an answer here.
I am particularly interested in the School Fees (per term) for Boy’s Foundation and Rudder School (afterwards the Barbados Academy) in the 1930′s & 40′s.
In fact, the 50′s & 60′s would be great as a comparison.
Anyone out there that can help or point me in the right direction.
Putting the above topic out on its own would be appreciated – I think it could generate some sober debate on where were our education system came from, or rather the cost of its funding … and maybe I can get the info I would like and learn more along the way.
Interesting. Sadly, due to the site headline and nature of the site, many will brand it ‘fringe’.
BUT, what it summarises in that article is fairly accurate.
The current US public spending is unsustainable, the underlying job structure is weak i.e. auto producers etc and this coupled with the weak social assistance structure i.e. healthcare etc.
People wonder when the ‘recession’ will be over, even recently some economists and market analysts stating that recovery was coming, much of these repeating oft regurgitated nonsense,
to maintain themselves in the crowd that ‘know’, but really have not a clue.
There will be no ‘magic’ recovery. As I have said before, the ‘glory days’ are over.
There can only be a gradual change towards sustainable lifestyle which will bring slow improvement, including reduction in military spending, improvement in social services, resturcturing of the corporate oversight, including efficient Gov’t review of practices and not least, a reduction in personal lifetyles.
Any other ostensible ‘market’ recovery will not be holistic and will be short-lived.
But, many cannot or refuse to see this.
We can only do for ourselves, if most refuse to open their eyes.
Peace and Live Strong
My take on this is in complete agreement with you, Rumple.
Recover to what?
To the overblown, bubble-based market prices which brought about this monumental theft and transfer of wealth upwards?
Is it that we now believe the sub-prime mortgages, the derivatives and credit default swap inventions of the masters of the universe are suddenly worth more than the paper they are written on?
The market manipulators are still being given free rein on Wall Street, and their rosy “green shoots of recovery” press releases will precede every downward correction as the last drops of capital are squeezed out of the gullible.
Come October, I see another banking crisis, and no possible return to stability until the markets are purged of the murky influence of Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, along with their former employees who now run Obama’s Treasury and Federal Reserve.
Comment without using the name BO.
My take on this is in complete agreement with you, Rumple.
Recover to what?
To the overblown, bubble-based market prices which brought about this monumental theft and transfer of wealth upwards?
Is it that we now believe the sub-prime mortgages, the derivatives and credit default swap inventions of the masters of the universe are suddenly worth more than the paper they are written on?
The market manipulators are still being given free rein on Wall Street, and their rosy “green shoots of recovery” press releases will precede every downward correction as the last drops of capital are squeezed out of the gullible.
Agreed. As you see, currently an ‘optimistic line’ is being pushed, but I shudder to think what will happen if the situation is not addressed cautiously and carefully, specifically Gov’t spending and lifestyle changes.
Many just cannot see it, but as you are aware, it is fairly awful.
But, they always have a ‘world war’ to fall back on, if the masses get too depressed.
Peace
You guys have hit the nail solidly on the head. Atleast 2 people I see on this site so far have their eyes opened.
What’s Really in Obama’s Health Care Reform Bill – A Plain English Translation
(NaturalNews) Mrs. Bouchard seemed upset.
“I can’t afford health care as yet.”
The new health reform bill
Made her sickly and ill
“But I’d rather have cancer than debt!”
What’s really in Obama’s health care reform bill? Almost no one knows, and here’s why: It’s 1,017 pages long and written in an alien form of bureaucratic English that can barely be decoded by earthlings.
And yet, astonishingly, a U.S. Army translator has been found who speaks “Washington Doublespeak” and he was kind enough to decode the bill and post his plain-language findings over at FreeRepublic.com (http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f…).
Below, we reprint what he found in the health care reform bill. As you read this, keep in mind that some of these translations are a bit loose with the interpretations, but I’ve personally spot-checked these points, and they are indeed all contained in the bill in one form or another (shrouded in Doublespeak language, of course).
Editor’s note: I don’t personally agree with every interpretation listed here, and some of the bill’s provisions are actually good ideas (like banning doctors from owning stock in health care companies). But overall, this interpretation points out many alarming provisions in the proposed health care reform bill…
From CMS at FreeRepublic.com:
• Page 16: States that if you have insurance at the time of the bill becoming law and change, you will be required to take a similar plan. If that is not available, you will be required to take the government option!
• Page 22: Mandates audits of all employers that self-insure!
• Page 29: Admission: your health care will be rationed!
• Page 30: A government committee will decide what treatments and benefits you get (and, unlike an insurer, there will be no appeals process)
• Page 42: The “Health Choices Commissioner” will decide health benefits for you. You will have no choice. None.
• Page 50: All non-US citizens, illegal or not, will be provided with free healthcare services.
• Page 58: Every person will be issued a National ID Healthcard.
• Page 59: The federal government will have direct, real-time access to all individual bank accounts for electronic funds transfer.
• Page 65: Taxpayers will subsidize all union retiree and community organizer health plans (example: SEIU, UAW and ACORN)
• Page 72: All private healthcare plans must conform to government rules to participate in a Healthcare Exchange.
• Page 84: All private healthcare plans must participate in the Healthcare Exchange (i.e., total government control of private plans)
• Page 91: Government mandates linguistic infrastructure for services; translation: illegal aliens
• Page 95: The Government will pay ACORN and Americorps to sign up individuals for Government-run Health Care plan.
• Page 102: Those eligible for Medicaid will be automatically enrolled: you have no choice in the matter.
• Page 124: No company can sue the government for price-fixing. No “judicial review” is permitted against the government monopoly. Put simply, private insurers will be crushed.
• Page 127: The AMA sold doctors out: the government will set wages.
• Page 145: An employer MUST auto-enroll employees into the government-run public plan. No alternatives.
• Page 126: Employers MUST pay healthcare bills for part-time employees AND their families.
• Page 149: Any employer with a payroll of $400K or more, who does not offer the public option, pays an 8% tax on payroll
• Page 150: Any employer with a payroll of $250K-400K or more, who does not offer the public option, pays a 2 to 6% tax on payroll
• Page 167: Any individual who doesn’t have acceptable healthcare (according to the government) will be taxed 2.5% of income.
• Page 170: Any NON-RESIDENT alien is exempt from individual taxes (Americans will pay for them).
• Page 195: Officers and employees of Government Healthcare Bureaucracy will have access to ALL American financial and personal records.
• Page 203: “The tax imposed under this section shall not be treated as tax.” Yes, it really says that.
• Page 239: Bill will reduce physician services for Medicaid. Seniors and the poor most affected.”
• Page 241: Doctors: no matter what specialty you have, you’ll all be paid the same (thanks, AMA!)
• Page 253: Government sets value of doctors’ time, their professional judgment, etc.
• Page 265: Government mandates and controls productivity for private healthcare industries.
• Page 268: Government regulates rental and purchase of power-driven wheelchairs.
• Page 272: Cancer patients: welcome to the wonderful world of rationing!
• Page 280: Hospitals will be penalized for what the government deems preventable re-admissions.
• Page 298: Doctors: if you treat a patient during an initial admission that results in a readmission, you will be penalized by the government.
• Page 317: Doctors: you are now prohibited for owning and investing in healthcare companies!
• Page 318: Prohibition on hospital expansion. Hospitals cannot expand without government approval.
• Page 321: Hospital expansion hinges on “community” input: in other words, yet another payoff for ACORN.
• Page 335: Government mandates establishment of outcome-based measures: i.e., rationing.
• Page 341: Government has authority to disqualify Medicare Advantage Plans, HMOs, etc.
• Page 354: Government will restrict enrollment of SPECIAL NEEDS individuals.
• Page 379: More bureaucracy: Telehealth Advisory Committee (healthcare by phone).
• Page 425: More bureaucracy: Advance Care Planning Consult: Senior Citizens, assisted suicide, euthanasia?
• Page 425: Government will instruct and consult regarding living wills, durable powers of attorney, etc. Mandatory. Appears to lock in estate taxes ahead of time.
• Page 425: Government provides approved list of end-of-life resources, guiding you in death.
• Page 427: Government mandates program that orders end-of-life treatment; government dictates how your life ends.
• Page 429: Advance Care Planning Consult will be used to dictate treatment as patient’s health deteriorates. This can include an ORDER for end-of-life plans. An ORDER from the GOVERNMENT.
• Page 430: Government will decide what level of treatments you may have at end-of-life.
• Page 469: Community-based Home Medical Services: more payoffs for ACORN.
• Page 472: Payments to Community-based organizations: more payoffs for ACORN.
• Page 489: Government will cover marriage and family therapy. Government intervenes in your marriage.
• Page 494: Government will cover mental health services: defining, creating and rationing those services.
The evil health care plan Obama is promoting.
Ron Paul, 1988: The Power Elite
http://www.infowars.com/ron-paul-1988-the-power-elite/
World’s Largest Science Group Rejecting Man-made Climate Fears
http://www.infowars.com/worlds-largest-science-group-rejecting-man-made-climate-fears/
Re: This aint’ no recession
Brit Doctors to Get £27,000 Flu Bonuses
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1203126/27-000-swine-flu-bonus-GPs-earn-107-000.html
Obama born in kenya, Eligibility to be president now causes questions.
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=105764
and the George Bushes were born in Barbados.
One day I hope that people like yourself will wake up from your slumber. I honestly do.
Is this what all the fuss is about?
http://community2.myfoxdc.com/_kenyandocumentjpg/photo/4743779/70048.html?enlarge=true
Who cares ?
Just as here, no matter who is the leader the same s*** happens.
What does this tell you then. Both men work for the same team. It doesn’t matter if it is Obama, Bush, Clinton. They are all working to achieve the same goal. World Government, and you should care because it will affect you, your children, and their children.
So you think disqualifying Obama and replacing him with Biden or, God forbid, Hillary will make a blind bit of difference to the path the US is on.
Concentrate on changing the rotten system.
The titular head of the current one is immaterial.
UK Government To Install Surveillance Cameras In Private Homes
http://www.infowars.com/uk-government-to-install-surveillance-cameras-in-private-homes/
Listen, I am for neither of them. I am in agreement with you, the entire system is corrupt this is why I said both Bush and Obama are run by the same people. All of them are for world government. Neither Republican nor Democrat is good. If you like you can go to you tube and watch End Game by Alex Jones. You will get an idea of what the world is dealing with.
Still on landline, which slowly gets slower and slower, it take me so long to download this site, I’ve been sadly having to pass up on it, and so have missed so much, from Prolife, Straight Talk, Rumple, Hants.
Washington, reminds me of POS, after 30 years of one party. It becomes harder and harder to kick the old ingrained established habits. That is what Obama is up against. ‘We like it so.” was the shout in Trinidad, and still is. No doubt that is the shout in Washington too.
And so the USA will find Russian rigs in Cuban waters, boadering the gulf of Mexico, and US citizens will continue to pay through their noseholes, for medical, optical, or dental attention, for what they could easily get done in Cuba, for free, or I/8 the price.
I agree with my compadres on this site. Fearfully I see the end of the recession, becoming the start of the next one. Nothing has really been able to change. The millstone just gets heavier, with nothing chipped off.
Meanwhile, Chaves tightens his grip on free speach in Venezuela. Strange times. Strange, strange and disquieting. The world that once promised so much hope, seems stopped, perplexed, the visions gone grey. The roses, shrivled , compromised by the salt sea blast, and no bird sings.
Sir Gary Sobers and when WI were the New Champions
http://www.dreamcricket.com/dreamcricket/news.hspl?nid=12236&ntid=3
Colin said ”Strange times. Strange, strange and disquieting. The world that once promised so much hope, seems stopped, perplexed, the visions gone grey. The roses, shriveled , compromised by the salt sea blast, and no bird sings”
Very well put and nicely phrased, Sir.
Especially the second sentence seems bang on, what is occuring.
Peace & Live Strong
Can we say, that greed and hatred clouded those visions.
We are, what we seek.
If humankind seeks darkness instead of light, then it shall be darkness.
The wanton rampage of greed, power, corruption and hatred has brought the world to the brink.
Evil, brings ills.
For those of us, rejecting these qualities, we must open our hearts and lives to the light, to hope, freedom, individuality and peace.
Peace and Live Strong
even better, accepting Jesus Christ as our personal saviour.
The Start Of The Second American Revolution?
http://www.infowars.com/the-start-of-the-second-american-revolution/
Could this happen here?
Cops Taser Old Man For Sitting In Wrong Seat At Baseball Game
http://www.infowars.com/cops-taser-old-man-for-sitting-in-wrong-seat-at-baseball-game/
White House Move to Collect ‘Fishy’ Info May Be Illegal, Critics Say
The White House strategy of turning supporters into snitches when they see “fishy” information about the health care debate may run afoul of the law, legal experts say.
“The White House is in bit of a conundrum because of this privacy statute that prohibits the White House from collecting data and storing it on people who disagree with it,” Judge Andrew Napolitano, a FOX News analyst, said Friday.
“There’s also a statute that requires the White House to retain all communications that it receives. It can’t try to rewrite history by pretending it didn’t receive anything,” he said.
“If the White House deletes anything, it violates one statute. If the White House collects data on the free speech, it violates another statute.”
Napolitano was referring to the Privacy Act of 1974, which was passed after the Nixon administration used federal agencies to illegally investigate individuals for political purposes. Enacted after Richard Nixon’s resignation in the Watergate scandal, the statute generally prohibits any federal agency from maintaining records on individuals exercising their right to free speech.
The White House has been under fire since it posted a blog on Tuesday that asked supporters to e-mail any “fishy” information seen on the Web or received electronically to flag@whitehouse.gov.
“There is a lot of disinformation about health insurance reform out there,” the blog said, adding that “since we can’t keep track of all of them here at the White House, we’re asking for your help.”
The blog was posted partly in response to a video posted on the Web that claimed to show Obama explaining how his health care reform plans eventually will eliminate private insurance.
The video, featured on the Drudge Report, strung together selected Obama statements that the White House said were taken out of context.
The White House said it wanted to be made aware of “fishy” comments about its health care plan because it wants to set the record straight. But critics called White House move an Orwellian tactic designed to control the health care debate.
“This is a very troubling attempt to stifle the free speech of Americans who have the constitutional right to express their opinion and concerns about health care,” said Jay Sekulow, chief counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice. He called on Obama to repudiate his blog.
“This move is an attempt to intimidate those who have legitimate concerns about the health care plan,” Sekulow said. “And, worse, it turns the White House into some sort of self-appointed ‘speech police.’ This new White House reporting program strikes at the heart of the First Amendment and has no place in this important debate about health care.”
Sekulow said he imagines that opponents of mandatory abortion coverage are engaging in what the White House considers “fishy” speech and should be reported.
“What the White House is touting is absurd,” he said.
But Napolitano said the White House probably cannot be sued because of sovereign immunity, unless someone was harmed by what the government did with the records. But that’s unlikely, he said, because the person would probably be unaware of the harm.
“That’s a silent violation of your right to privacy,” he said.
The ACLU said in a statement to FOXNews.com that the White House blog is a “bad idea that could send a troublesome message.”
But the organization added, “While it is unclear at this point what the government is doing with the information it is collecting, critics of the administration’s health care proposal should not fear that their names will end up in some government database that could be used to chill their right to free speech.”
The White House Thursday denied that it was playing “Big Brother.”
“Nobody is collecting names,” White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said. “We have seen, and as I’ve discussed from this podium, a lot of misinformation around health care reform, a lot of it spread, I think, purposefully.”
Texas Sen. John Cornyn, who has called on Obama to end the program, rejected the White House explanation.
“Of course the White House is collecting names,” he said, arguing that anyone with access to the e-mail account has access to private information.
“The question is not what the White House is doing, but how and why,” he said. “How are they purging names and e-mail addresses from this account to protect privacy? Why do they need the forwarded e-mails, names, and ‘casual conversations’ sent to them instead of just the arguments that they want to rebut?
Asked by FOX News whether the White House was using the blog post as a way to expand the e-mail list for the administration and Obama’s political arm, Organizing for America, Gibbs said the two are “not in any way connected” and repeated that the White House is not collecting names.
Pressed about the program’s goal, Gibbs said it was to clarify for everybody what the misinformation is, adding that’s not a new tactic.
“When you make a mistake in your report, sometimes I e-mail you,” Gibbs said to FOX News’ Major Garrett. “Occasionally, I call. Sometimes I just throw something against the wall. Occasionally, it’s all three.”
Garrett asked why it’s necessary to ask so many people to e-mail the White House.
“All we’re asking people to do is, if they’re confused about what health care reform is going to mean to them, we’re happy to help clear that up for them. Nobody’s keeping anybody’s names. I do have your e-mail. …Maybe that’s because I assume future mistakes. But I’m not going to say that,” Gibbs said, drawing laughter.
“But nobody’s collecting information,” he added. “Everybody is trying to give people only the facts around what we all understand is a very complicated issue.”
Number of People Seeking Vaccination Exemptions Rising
http://www.infowars.com/number-of-people-seeking-vaccination-exemptions-rising/
BFP you post direct links to Keltruth blog without allowing us to comment on BFP.
Why? Just asking.
Front page of the Advocate. ITAL
The Boardwalk at Hastings is great in its concept, but not in its execution. Since word first broke on its construction about 6 years ago, I warned then Minister of Government that it would cause a lot of damage to the inner and outer reefs along the Hastings area. That it would destroy what the South Coast Sewage Project we meant to save. The response I got was that the money had already been allocated and could not be used for anything else; I had suggested that they use the money to construct sidewalks which would be of a benefit to many more people who used the roads in the area, instead .
Well the damage is now there for all to see. I truly hope that it is either rectified quickly or that it is seasonal being caused by the change in ocean conditions.
* Huge mounds of sand have been building up on what was once rubble reef which once teemed with marine life;
* The wonderful corals on the outer reef are now being smothered with the excess sand that the disruption in the free flow of the tides has caused;
* The build up of sand in some areas and the erosion in others has destroyed or eliminated turtle nesting sites.
* Users of the boardwalk now find it extremely difficult, if not impossible, especially at high tide, to exit the Western end and walk to the Graves End/Hilton area since the beaches there have been eroded to such an extent that mature coconut and other trees along the shore will soon fall into the water, and people are forced to wade in waste deep water to reach dry land..
* There are few, if any, accesses to the boardwalk that are not through private properties.
A land of liberty destroyed by stealth
http://www.infowars.com/a-land-of-liberty-destroyed-by-stealth/
NAFTA & Global Warming: A Globalist Scam
BFP Staff: Rather than posting the link I will copy this very brief news item word for word: Headline: Turks and Caicos: BRITAIN TAKES DIRECT RULE AMID CORRUPTION CLAIMS. Britain yesterday imposed direct rule on this Atlantic islands group, suspending the government and legislature following corruption claims against the authorities. The islands Premier, Galmo Williams, blasted the move as a “coup”.
I wonder if you would find this worthy enough for a discussion about the pros and cons of Barbados’s independence? Just think, if Barbados was not independent and still under British rule, the same action could be taken and corruption dealt with and God knows, there is enough corruption in Barbados.
Another suggestion: Is it not time to houseclean “submissions”? It takes forever to load and forever for a post to appear due to almost 2 years worth of posts.
Ok… tomorrow!
Time for Barbados to become a republic.
This notion of “British rule” is ridiculous.
They are no saints either.
May 19th 2009
From Economist.com
“The speaker resigns after scandal engulfs Britain’s Parliament.”
Hello, Barbados Free Press and followers!
It is with great delight I announce the pre-launch online of my Super Blog: Newspaper, Board Game, Art Gallery and much more.
See: http://www.FreedomDailyNews.TV
I respectfully invite BarbadosFreePress to link to each other’s sites. ASAP, I will have an icon for Association of Freest Journalists (by invitation only).
I’m flabbergasted at how BFG has grown since I last checked in and how politicians in my beloved Barbados and the U.S. are revealing themselves for the Pigs they are (no, that’s insulting to pigs), for the Dumber Than Pigs they are.
Review comments on website welcome.
Barbados Dagny (former co-owner Edgewater Inn)