By Erica James-King, Staff ReporterWESTERN BUREAU:
THE CANTERBURY stand-off was contained in the community yesterday, but the barking of high-powered guns was enough for school administrators in the surrounding areas to cancel classes, taking no chances with the safety of their charges.
In addition, a few businesses drew their shutters, but generally, commerce and the tourism areas were unaffected by the tense and deadly battle that raged throughout yesterday.
At least nine academic institutions, ranging from basic to tertiary, closed their doors, sending home teachers and students when it became evident that no one was backing down in the confrontation between the police and gunmen.
Among the schools were Albion Primary and Junior High, Cornwall College, the University School of Continuing Studies, King's Basic School, Mount Alvernia Preparatory School, Western Preparatory School, Paradise Basic School and LUAJ Basic.
Cornwall College, a section of which adjoins the back of the Canterbury area, was the first institution to send home staff and students, from as early as 9:00 a.m.
Vilma Clarke, principal of the University School of Continuing Studies in Montego Bay, said her institution enjoyed a peaceful day yesterday, but still did not want students and staff placed in a "risky situation."
Meanwhile, it was smooth sailing for the approximately 3,000 tourists aboard the cruise ship 'Carnival Conquest' who visited the shores of Montego Bay yesterday. "The visitors came ashore and patronised the local businesses and had a good time," David Lindo, chairman of the Montego Bay Cruise ship Committee, told The Gleaner.
