June 1st 2012 Edition

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JUNE 01, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 22

www.thevincentian.com

Man dies in vehicular accident Ashley Hope died when his motor car collided with an oncoming passenger van.

Right: The remains of the vehicle owned and driven by Ashley Hope.

Story on Page 3.

VINCENTIAN HONOR STUDENT SUES NYPD Vincentian honour student Brittany Rowley.

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

THE PARENTS of a Vincentian honor student at an all-girls Catholic high school in Brooklyn, New York, say they have filed a notice of claim with the City of New York and the New York Police Department (NYPD) for US$5.5 million in a case of mistaken identity.

Delmus and Wendy Rowley, who reside in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn, confirmed the lawsuit with THE VINCENTIAN on Monday. Mrs.

Rowley, née John, was born and lived in Rillan Hill before migrating to New York.

The Rowleys said they have decided to take legal action because two White plainclothes cops last week severely and unnecessarily roughed up their daughter, Brittany, 15, claiming she matched the description of a shoplifting suspect in the Park Slope section of Brooklyn.

“I feel my daughter was racially profiled,” an outraged Delmus Rowley told reporters. “They had no proof, just a description of a black young lady

with braids.

“It wasn’t necessary to tackle a 15-year-old girl,” he added. “It was excessive.”

The circumstances In court papers, the Rowleys alleged that Sgt. Jonathan Catanzaro and Officer Stephen Nakao of the 78th Precinct in Brooklyn used “excessive force” and “falsely arrested” Brittany,

Continued on Page 3.

EC$1.50

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2. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

The National Public Library:

Security and other services

tough decisions about book selection and replacement of SO IN DECEMBER 2010, right old titles for new. Funding also before a memorable general became an issue. The Library elections, the National Public was broken into and Library opened its doors to the vandalized at least three times. public. It had been promised, and For poor, disadvantaged was under construction for quite children seeking an alternative a few years. to what is currently besieging In terms of history, a few young people here in St. marked events regarding Vincent, the Library is a library service can be rendered valuable resource. I commend here.

Ms. Joan Joseph- who ran that interim phase, and did mature From whence we came under Lorna Small- for the magazine selection and an The Carnegie Library excellent kids section which (donated by American Andrew was accessible in spite of the Carnegie who built libraries all problem issues. The adult over the globe) served section,(and by inference young admirably as a Library from adult section) was however the early 1900s to sometime in horrendously inadequate. the 1980s. Back then, there was no need for security Security guard service guards; patronage was healthy and satisfying, at both ends But to the issue of security users and providers. guards and service.

Under the able direction of Our National Public Library very accomplished librarian compares in size to The Lorna Small, space was used Broward Community College effectively with a very specific Library in Pembroke Pines, relevant book selection.

USA. This writer is familiar Reference was well organized. with that library.

(Lorna Small was viciously While there is similarity in murdered in 2008.) size, the allocation of space and In addition, the library had distribution is very dissimilar a five minute spot on the radio, in favor of the Pembroke Pines and very effective public Library. relations.

New Director of Libraries, The current administration Michelle King, has a daunting saw it fit to convert the task ahead of her, in terms of Carnegie building to the home adapting to the climate that base for the National Trust, requires half a dozen or so and the L’Alliance Francaise, security guards on a daily and the last sighting of the basis,(one of them equipped library service prior to the with hand- cuffs), security inauguration of the National cameras, internet technology Public Library, was at a (the computers here have been warehouse type structure, hard disabled for a period of a few to locate and very limited in weeks at least three times), terms of space, in Middle and the ‘issue’ which Joan Street.

Joseph faced, related to The VINCENTIAN, in 2008 funding. circa, ran a story on the One area that should not be support needed for the ‘library a problem but is, according to warehouse’ at that time, where a source at the library, is the an overworked underattitude of Librarians and appreciated staff had to make security guards especially, to

by COLIN KING

The new National Public Library is an imposing sight along the main driveway into capital Kingstown.

Inset: Many students make use of the computer facilities to prepare their course work. children requesting and availing themselves of services which are their right, as young citizens of SVG. Several St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (SJCK) students have complained to me of the attitude of the security guards here; of them being more like ‘trigger happy’ police to the children.

The girls say that the children’s movements are restricted, and that some are singled out. The library source verifies this.

I have witnessed firsthand the lunch hour Inquest. For whatever reason(s), many secondary school students use the library to do projects, and they are bullied out of the computer room at lunch hour, even when they have valid extensions of time to complete their project.

The role of a library in terms of children is to facilitate their academic career and their recreational needs, in an environment where they do not feel threatened or intimidated.

My point being, the security guards need to understand beyond their training, that children are not dealt with verbally and strategically the way felons are.

Our Library source continues, addressing the

attitude of a few librarians, in terms of granting materials requested by children. These materials are not the property of the Library; they are public domain access materials, merely housed for safe-keeping and control at the Library.

Recreational use of computers My final point takes aim at what seems to be a policy of the library as regards recreational use of the computers.

One eight-year-old had been using a computer for games for maybe two or three hours, in a deserted computer room. He and I were two of four using the room. In walks this Librarian and says if he is not doing school work, academic stuff, he “would be thrown out.” The child was playing a runners game and a cricket game.

Video games are good outlets for children. They enhance focus, and motor skills. They are an alternative to pornography, and on a Saturday morning as this was, keep a child out of trouble and away from what is otherwise available on a Saturday

morning.

The advantage of a child using a computer at the Library is that he is in a public forum, and cannot break the law.

New service still young Personally, I am happy with the progress that the National Library is making in certain areas. The cosmopolitan book section is adequate but could be larger. So is the classics section, which is almost entirely donated, giving cause for pause. Granted there are certain glaring omissions, and as a former employee in the library service, I recognize this; but I also recognize that our library system in terms of a national agenda, is young.

On an area as basic as public relations and children, however, the only hope in the Armageddon-like recursive environment in which said children find themselves, certain librarians and guards should realize the need for good public relations, etiquette and manner, and that the job is not just a job where our only hope, the young ones, are concerned.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 3.

News 3

Man dies in vehicular accident injuries.

Mary Questelles, Hope’s mother, ASHLEY HOPE is this country’s fourth who resides in Trinidad, had to travel road fatally for the year. back to St.Vincent to bury her son.

The 33-year-old painter of Belair, She told THE VINCENTIAN that died after the vehicle he was driving Ashley was the second of her four collided with a passenger -van, on the children, and she was in regular Pembroke road, just outside the contact with him. She had spoken to construction site of the new C. K. him around 1:00 pm that Sunday.

Greaves supermarket.

Questelles described her son as very A well-placed source told THE peaceful, helpful, quiet, and a handy VINCENTIAN that on the night of person.

Sunday, May 27th, 2012, Hope was at “He could fix anything,” she said. a ‘cook out’ with some friends in She recalled that she was at home Layou, when he received a phone call when a friend informed from a young lady, asking him for a her that her son had ride home. died.

Hope and a friend Curtis Pitt then “Ah say ‘Niki nah ,a left, but Hope promised to return . He just talk to Ashley’,” she never would. explained, continuing to Reports are that around 8:35pm say that she immediately that said Sunday, Hope’s motor car, cut the call and tried to PL8014, collided with a passenger van, contact her son.

HQ 424, along the Pembroke road.

After several Hope is said to have died on the unsuccessful attempts, spot, while Pitt sustained minor she concluded that her injuries. The occupants of the son had in fact died. passenger van sustained no serious Questelles noted that

by KENVILLE HORNE

Mary Questelles travelled from Trinidad to bury her son.

later that night, her son appeared to her in a dream and told her, “ ‘The man break me neck with the van and he kill me; but Mommy, just have faith in the Lord, don’t cry Mommy, don’t cry, dry every tear from yo eye’,” Questelles said she replied, in the dream, “May your soul rest in peace.”

The RSVG Police Force Public Relations Department confirmed that Hope died after his vehicle lost control and collided with a passenger van that was travelling from Kingstown.

Vincentian honor student sues NYPD

Continued from Page 1.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is said, according to the Geography text books of old, and not that we have been taught otherwise, to have six towns.

The towns are listed as Kingstown, Calliaqua, Georgetown, Chateaubelair, Barrouallie and Layou.

It is interesting to note how the towns, in their earliest development stages, would have been ‘rimmed’ by large estates of one kind or the other.

In this edition, we feature one of those towns, Layou, which, as early Geography/History tell us, was ‘rimmed’ by the Ruthland Vale (open area in photograph) and Mt. Wynne estates to the, north west, and the Penniston, Pembroke estates on the South east.

Situated on what is considered the calmer Leeward coast, Layou, as can be seen from this early 20th century photograph, was a town washed by an open sea with a wide expanse of beach.

It was not unlike the towns of Kingstown and Barrouallie that provided an opportunity for a refreshing walk or drive, with an unencumbered ’window to the sky’, and a safe harbor for swimming.

Today, of course, given decades of erosion occasioned by man and nature, Layou has lost most of its beach and, notwithstanding the modern engineering feat that stands today in its place, those who experienced the wondrous warmth of nature that Layou was noted for, would have mixed feelings about the Layou of today.

a freshman at St. Saviour High School in Park Slope, who was heading to the library with an unidentified friend when she noticed a vehicle trailing them.

Court documents also indicate that Sgt. Jonathan Catanzaro slammed Brittany to the pavement and flung his keys at her.

“It was terrifying,” said Brittany, who suffered whiplash to her neck, and received injuries to her hand and other parts of her body. “It is the most horrible thing I have ever experienced.”

Brittany said they thought they were being abducted and began to run after they saw the unmarked car reversing towards them.

She said they became more apprehensive when she heard a male voice shouting, “Get them!”

Brittany alleged that the sergeant threw her to the ground and yelled: “Why did you f––– run? I should punch you.”

She said they were arrested and released hours later after cops realized they had arrested the wrong suspects.

Police reports Police said two black teenage girls had earlier shoplifted shorts and jeans from Rivet, a clothing store a few blocks from the incident.

They said the description matched Brittany and her friend.

“It is not a surprise that parents fear more that their children will suffer violence at the hands of the police than from common criminals,” Sanford Rubenstein, the Rowleys lawyer, told reporters, expressing deep concern about heightened racial profiling by the NYPD. The NYPD was at the center of controversy recently when a White police officer unlawfully arrested St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ United Nations Ambassador, Camillo Gonsalves, in the lobby of the building that houses the SVG Mission to the UN in midtown Manhattan.

Critics alleged that Gonsalves’ arrest was also a case of racial profiling. As a diplomat, Gonsalves was entitled to diplomatic immunity under the Geneva Convention.

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Fisherman of the Day upset Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS DESPITE VICTORY, Fisherman of the Day 2012, Ellis Roberts of Clare Valley, was upset when it was initially wrongly

Ellis Roberts, 2012 Fisherman of the Day (Photo: Kingsley Roberts)

These pirogues make a pretty sight. They were part of an overall increase in the number of boats entered in the 2012 Competition. (Photo: Don De Riggs)

announced at Monday’s event that boat owner Winston Edwards of Ottley Hall had copped the title.

When Senior Fisheries Officer Jennifer Cruickshank-Howard made the initial announcement, a visibly angry Roberts strode onto the platform and proceeded to protest the error.

Recognizing the mistake, Cruickshank-Howard immediately apologized to Roberts and declared him Fisherman of the Day. Criuckshank-Howard explained that Edwards was the owner of the boat ‘Slip Away’, operated by Roberts during the competition, in which he landed the heaviest catch of 512 lbs.

Roberts received a Yamaha 75 horse power, two-stroke outboard engine along with a trophy, one case of beer, one case of oil, three lifejackets and two bottles of vodka.

Roberts eventually managed a smile, but continued to express his displeasure as he left the platform.

When approached by THE VINCENTIAN for a comment, he responded, “Me nah even want to hear nothing from nobody.”

Cruickshank-Howard told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday that

Edwards has also apologized for the error. She said Edwards indicated that he was not aware that the boat was registered in his name, and not the captain’s. She explained that boats are supposed to be registered in the captains’ names for the competition.

Roberts confident When Roberts landed his catch around 4 p.m. on Monday, May 28, he had expressed confidence that he would be declared Fisherman of the Day. This was also clear to many onlookers as they took note of the amount of fish he had landed.

The Clare Valley man told THE VINCENTIAN then, “Any kind of competition, I always winning because I have a lot of confidence in myself, and I always know what I am doing.”

He admitted he was not the owner of the boat, but had been operating it for the past two months.

Roberts, a self-proclaimed fisherman for almost his entire life, recalled that just before leaving shore around 5 a.m., on Monday, his engine rod broke and it took him about half an hour to repair it.

“That was the only problem I had”,

Officials reported an increase in the overall catch in 2012 over 2011.

(Photo: Stanley Quammie) Roberts said adding, “the day was beautiful, I just cool”.

Venold Lewis placed second, landing a catch of 387 lbs with the boat ‘In God we trust’. He received a handheld radio, $3,000, two cases, a case of beer, a trophy, a case of oil, three lifejackets and two bottles of Vodka.

Randolf Layne landed the third heaviest catch of 337 lbs with the boat ‘De Prowler’. He received $1,500, three life-jackets, two cases of oil, a case of beer, artificial bait and two bottles of vodka.

Oria Matthews won the female competition, bringing in a catch of 301 lbs. She received $800, a trophy a Digicel phone, a dinner for two, gift vouchers from Beachcombers.

Caesar throws out a challenge HOW CAN St. Vincent and the Grenadines commercialize by creating a local fish frying market?

Over the next year, Chief Fisheries Officer Raymond Ryan would have the role of exploring this.

So says Saboto

Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry and Fisheries, as he looked critically towards the future of the local fishing industry.

“I am calling him by name, Mr. Ryan. I want to see how can we commercialize by

creating a local market where we can fry our fish, and that the young people of this nation can come and get clean entertainment on a regular basis”, Caesar stated on Monday, while delivering the feature address at the annual Fisherman’s Day

ceremony, held at the Calliaqua Playing Field under the theme: ‘Fishing for Economic Stability and Sustainable Livelihood through Improved Technology, 2012 and beyond’.

The Minister pointed out, “We are not to leave this only for fisherman’s month, and sometimes occasionally we have it here and there. But when we open the Argyle International Airport, so help us God, there must be places in our country where the tourists can come, where we can meet them, where we can mingle, exchange our culture.”

facility had been set up by this administration to facilitate credit for the fisherfolk, but only one million was used.

“We have to ensure that we have the requisite credit systems and frameworks in place so that our fishermen and fisherwomen can benefit even more,” the Minister declared.

He pointed out that Fisheries is going to play a very critical role if St. Vincent and the Grenadines is to reduce its food import bill.

As from last Tuesday, the Ministry was expected to embark on an overhaul of every piece of legislation which All hands on deck touches and concerns the fisheries sector.

In relation to the “We have to manage EC$36 million this our fish stock,” Caesar country is to receive as a warned. capital injection into the The Minister agricultural sector, concluded, “The Ministry Caesar wants to include is going to play its part, $500,000 Euros for the and we want the fishermen and fishermen and fisherwomen. He recalled fisherwomen, we want that a six million dollar

Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry and Fisheries, has called for a unified effort on the part of his Ministry to capitalize on the potential of the fisheries sector. the people in Forestry, we want every single farmer in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to join this national effort.

“Brothers and sisters, you also have a role to play. I want you to join in this national effort as we continue to build this very important sector.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 5.

News

PM in Taiwan PRIME MINISTER DR. RALPH GONSALVES was scheduled to return to the state on Wednesday, May 30, 2012, after an official visit to the Republic of China (Taiwan), and stops in England and France. Dr. Gonsalves left the state on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, to attend the second term inauguration of Dr. Ma Ying-jeou as the President of Taiwan.

The Prime Minister and his five member delegation, which included his wife Mrs. Eloise Gonsalves, Press Secretary Hans King, Sergeant Benzyl Samuel, Photographer Reynold ‘Lance’ Neverson and Nurse Jacqueline Browne-King, arrived in Taipei on Friday, May 18, 2012, and met with Vincentian students studying in Taiwan the following day, Saturday May 19.

During that meeting, Prime Minister Gonsalves updated the students on the progress

on the international airport project at Argyle.

He also told the students that there were employment opportunities at home and the rest of the region, and urged them not to be afraid to take chances and risks.

The Prime Minister also updated them on the proposed new city at E.T Joshua Airport in Arnos Vale, noting that “this is not a pipe dream.”

Students were also briefed on the proposed new port for capital Kingstown, as well as several other projects.

On Sunday, May 20, Prime Minister Gonsalves and the delegation attended the swearing-in ceremony of President Ma, and the Prime Minister was among several world leaders who extended congratulations to the President on his second term.

The following day, Monday, May 21, Prime

Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves and some members of his delegation pose with Vincentian students in Taiwan.

Right: President Dr. Ma Ying-jeou and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves in discussions.

Minister Gonsalves met with President Ma, and both leaders discussed the further cooperation between their countries.

Among the issues proposed by President Ma was a solar power project which Taiwan is already collaborating on with its African allies.

President Ma also thanked Prime Minister Gonsalves for his continued vocal support

for Taiwan on the international arena.

In his response, PM Gonsalves thanked President Ma for Taiwan’s “immense contribution to our

development.” He highlighted the international airport project, and reminded President Ma of Taiwan’s commitment to consider further assistance for

any increase in construction cost for the terminal building.

Monday’s meeting with President Ma was followed in the afternoon by a speech by Prime Minister Gonsalves to students of the Department of Diplomacy at the VINCENTIAN LION Governor at the just District 60 is has held other Cabinet Lions Movement; simply National Chengchi Positions such as put Lion Isaac is a model University, one of the top ISAAC SOLOMON, MJF concluded Multiple comprised of Lions and universities in Taiwan. lion.” was overwhelmingly District 60 Convention in Leo clubs in Districts 60 Leadership Chair for Prime Minister Zone 3C. Meanwhile, members elected to the post of Trinidad and Tobago A and B. The Lions and Gonsalves and his Lion Isaac has been of the Lions Club South Second Vice District from May 21-28th.

Leo clubs of St. Vincent delegation departed described by many as, “a are still in a celebratory and the Grenadines are Taiwan on Wednesday very dependable and part of District 60 B mood as they were the May 23, 2012. Three reliable Lion who stops proud recipient of the which stretches from members of the at nothing to improve the award for outstanding Cayman in the north to delegation, King, Samuel lot of the needy, work in the field of Grenada in the south. and Neverson, returned disadvantaged and Agriculture and the Lion Isaac MJF, to the state, while PM unfortunate in our received a hundred Environment after they community. He has a spearheaded the planting Gonsalves, Mrs. percent of the ballots Gonsalves and Nurse deep appreciation for the of 100 trees in cast in the election.

Browne-King remained conjunction with the He will be installed as circumstances of the in England.

District Governor of 60 B people we serve and is a local Forestry (Contributed) valuable resource to the Department in April. in 2014, becoming the second Vincentian to rise to this position in recent times. His installation will be historic, as 2014 will mark the 50th anniversary of Lionism in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Lion Isaac has been a member of the Lions Club South since 1996, and has held several positions within his club, zone, and district. He has served as Director for many years, Secretary, Treasurer, and has held the post of President on two consecutive occasions. In 2004, he served as Zone Chairman of 3C and as Lion Isaac Solomon, MJF, Second Vice District Region Chairman for Governor (right) pictured with Lion Izett McCalla Region 3 in the 200, and MJF of Jamaica, First Vice District Governor.

Lion Solomon elected to high ranking position

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6. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Policeman remanded on criminal charges Lenroy Brewster were present.

A POLICEMAN who PC Richards is allegedly referred to one of additionally charged his colleagues as “the with damaging a 30x70 Commissioner’s dog,” was ½ glass barrier at the remanded to Her Majesty’s Reception area of the Prisons, Tuesday, May 29, Criminal Investigation on charges of using Department (CID) by indecent language, assault smashing it, on the same and damage to property. date. The glass is said to Constable Andy value EC$1,012.

Richards,25, of Arnos Richards pleaded not Vale is accused of using guilty to all three indecent language to charges when he was Constable Derek taken before Senior Humphrey by telling Magistrate Donald him, “Haul yo stinking Browne at the Kingstown mudder (expletive); you Magistrate’s Court on is the Commissioner Tuesday. Bail was not dog.” considered at that point, PC Richards is also and PC Richards was charged with assaulting remanded. He will return PC Humphrey by to Court next Tuesday, pushing him.

June 5, for bail review.

Both charges reportedly stem from an incident at Heritage Square, May 12, where Commissioner of Police

by HAYDN HUGGINS Keith Miller and Assistant Commissioner AN OLD MONTROSE

by HAYDN HUGGINS

weapon, to wit a cutlass, and using indecent language to one of their colleagues.

On February 7, 2012, Both officers have PC Richards and been suspended from Constable Deshorn duties pending the Dembar, 25, were each outcome of that matter. released on $2,500 bail In recent years, with one surety when several policemen have they appeared in court been taken before the and pleaded not guilty to Court on criminal unlawfully and charges, including maliciously wounding 27- murder, wounding, year-old Keith assault, theft, using McDowald, by stabbing indecent language and him in the back. The sexually related offences. incident reportedly Since March 7, 2012, occurred around 3:30 the police top brass has a.m. October 29, 2011 in been holding a series of the vicinity of Huffles consultations throughout Ranch night spot at the country, aimed at Brighton. The two were dealing with the issue of also charged with delinquent police officers. possession of an offensive

Other police misbehaviour

Gunshot victim begs for leniency youth, who earlier this year survived gunshot wounds, pleaded with

Senior Magistrate Donald Browne on Tuesday not to send him to prison.

Gary Williams, originally of Sion Hill, had appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on a theft charge.

He was accused of pulling away a blackberry cellular phone, valued at $850, from a young lady as she was crossing the road in the vicinity of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School in Kingstown, December 19, 2011. The incident occurred around 8 p.m.

She recognized Williams, who was also recognized by a watchman in the area.

“Please, please my Worship, I now get a nice job up McKie’s Hill. I trying to change my life, My Worship,” Williams pleaded.

He told the Senior Magistrate that on January 4, 2012, he was shot five times and had been warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

“You are a lucky fellow. Some people get one shot and die. I am going to send you to prison so that nobody don’t shoot you,” the Magistrate told Williams.

To demonstrate that he had changed his life, Williams said he attended the Streams of Power Church at Sion

Albert Browne J88CT making contact with the other patrol boat via VHF radio.

RRL on patrol The Rainbow Radio League Inc (RRL) was once again part of the official Fisherman’s Day maritime patrol.

The Fisheries research vessel ‘Black Jack’ and the pleasure craft boat ‘Let’s Do It’, owned by Kelly Glass , Managing Director of Kelcom International Inc and Kelectric Co. Ltd., were on duty on Fisherman’s Day, just in case there were any emergencies.

This was the second consecutive year that Mr. Glass had made his craft available to assist with the patrol.

The Fisheries vessel patrolled the northern segment of our territorial waters, while the ‘Let’s Do It’ patrolled the eastern and southern boundaries.

The RRL had two members on each patrol boat. The SVG Coast Guard also had a presence on both vessels.

All boats, fishing boats and patrol boats, returned safely, and there were no reported accidents.

Hill last Sunday, with his grandmother.

Williams appeared to be crying, but the Senior Magistrate observed that he was not shedding tears.

Apparently making the same observation, Prosecutor Inspector Glenford Gregg told the accused, “Stop, Gary, stop your antics.”

But Williams continued to plead for leniency.

“They does call me informer round jail. Give me a last chance please, My Worship,” he begged.

Magistrate Browne then told Williams he was going to impose a fine.

“A fine, yes please My Worship, a fine,” Williams said, seemingly breathing a sigh of relief.

But when the Magistrate added, ‘forthwith’, he responded sharply, “Forthwith, no please My Worship, not forthwith, My Worship.”

Williams was fined $750 to be paid in one month with an alternative of six months in prison.

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THE VINCENTIAN. JUNE 01, 2012. 7.

News

Drumming group celebrates 2nd anniversary

by SHERON GARRAWAY THE DRUM is a membranophone that has been around for thousands of years, and maybe the oldest musical instrument in the world.

In addition to its more prevalent use as a musical instrument, it has also been used, in different cultures, as a means of communication.

Whatever its use, and regardless of what technological changes that impact down through the years, its (the drum) basic construct of a shell with a covering has remained the same.

The Resistance Heartbeat Drummers use this percussion in their public performances and sessions with persons keen on learning the art of drumming.

The group will be celebrating its second anniversary on June 3.

Group leader Mwata Byron, with some 20 years of involvement in drumming to his credit, said that the organization was established to help persons get a better appreciation for traditions and customs.

He said that this focus could deter young people from crime and violence, and help them become more involved in their folklore. Byron noted that besides drumming, the group also teaches the art of making drums, particularly the conga and dejembe.

He noted that this country was robbed of its culture, particularly the Garifuna culture, and expressed the belief that it has become essential to help preserve and revive it.

Byron disclosed that several activities have been planned to mark the group’s 2nd anniversary, among these being a drum circle at Heritage Square on Sunday 3rd June; an internal conference for drummers at Kingstown Park on Monday 4th June; radio programmes planned for Tuesday 5th June on Cross Country and on Wednesday 6th June on Nice Radio, and a work day session on how to care and build drums on Thursday 7th June.

Saturday 9th June will be given over to staging a social activity, and the week’s programme will culminate with a clean-up of the spa at Belair, on Sunday 10th June.

While the group has participated in significant events such as Nine Mornings, Garifuna workshops, and has been able to establish other drumming groups in various areas throughout the country, Byron was particularly pleased to report that the group has become a legally registered entity.

It is the intention of the group to reach out to schools so as to ensure that young persons are exposed to the art.

The Resistance Heartbeat Drummers was involved as one of the principal performers in the recent African Liberation Day programme held on May 25 at the hard court in Rose Place.

The motto of the non-profit organization is, ‘Resistance Heartbeat Uplifting our Nation through a Cultural Vitalization’.

The Resistance Heartbeat Drummers in a public performance. Mwata Byron, group leader, is at extreme right.

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@yahoo.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Still talking tax BEFORE WE GO ANY FURTHER, and lest some read otherwise into this piece, let it be understood that taxes are important; they are essential to a country’s ability to support itself.

Imagine for a moment what a country would be like without taxes. Without taxes, there would be, just to name a few basic amenities, no health services, no education services, no policing services, no correctional services, no housing and development and last but not least, no remuneration of Civil Service personnel, including the Prime Minister.

Imagine the Prime Minister withdrawing his services because there is no money (taxes) to pay him? What a country that would be!!

Last week’s edition featured an interview with the Comptroller of Inland Revenue. He lamented the tax arrears that obtain currently in SVG, and exhorted those defaulters to step up and pay their fair share.

If the truth be told, the group that pays its fair share is that large pool of ‘salaried persons’; that large pool that simply cannot escape the tax net. They are bound by law and practice (regardless of how unscrupulous employers are) to have their taxes deducted, even before they rush to their respective creditors (banks) to see what is left in their accounts.

These ‘salaried persons’, workers, have no alternative. They cannot escape the system. Try as much as they might, they cannot escape that infamous Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) system.

So every teacher, civil servant, private sector employee, public corporation employee contributes (assuming the deductions are remitted to the Inland Revenue Department) his fair share, and therefore, has all right to demand the services for which his taxes are utilized, or supposed to be utilized, given the international protocol that governs the system of taxation in the so called Free World.

That said, on the one hand; on the other hand businesses, companies and corporations are also obliged to pay taxes — corporate taxes.

However, in the world of big business and taxation, therein lies a moral issue.

This is not in any way pointing a finger at any one or group of businesses, companies and/or corporations; but it would be folly, given what advantages the system allows them, for us lay persons to believe that these entities do not pursue (work) the system, so as to avoid paying more taxes than they feel they ought to. The bottom line is profit and a desire (obligation?) to appease their shareholders.

This action, referred to as ‘Tax Avoidance’, must not be confused with ‘Tax Evasion’.

Tax Avoidance is very much a legal practice. It involves the prudent management of the tax affairs of any business/company/corporation, so as to legitimately minimize the tax liability. They can do so because the system (tax law) allows them certain ‘advantages’.

These entities have the resources to afford to employ Tax Consultants whose job it is to advise those companies along the path of minimizing their tax liability figures.

On the other hand, ‘Tax Evasion’ is an illegal act. It is a deliberate, if not pre-meditated concealment of a taxable transaction and, in accordance with the tax laws and other supporting legislation, is a criminal offence.

Not that there is anything moral about big business, commerce, just as in politics; but isn’t it a little discomforting that the average tax payer (that salaried person) begins at a distinct disadvantage as far as the tax laws are concerned?

The system allows these entities to extend their reach into the wide and oftentimes gaping avenues for interpretation, something that individual tax payers might not necessarily enjoy to the same proportion.

So, the question arises: When the records show that there are large arrears as far as the nations expected collection on taxes is concerned, how much of that is in abeyance as entities exploit the opportunities of ‘Tax Avoidance,’ and how much of it is perceived as ‘Tax Evasion’?

Tax Consultants will die with their lips curled around the conviction that “‘Tax Avoidance’ isn’t morally wrong. It’s perfectly sensible behavior.”

Is it?

Arnhim has spoken, “Senator” John. Foot-note on F.O. ARNHIM EUSTACE has selected Dr. Linton Lewis for the job of filling the vacancy in the Senate created by the removal of Anesia Baptiste several weeks ago.

The leader of the Opposition has acted unhurriedly, weighing the question carefully, and acting in his own good time in what he considers to be the joint interest of country and party.

There had been wild speculation, and wishful thinking, especially among the gurus of the U.L.P who went on a frolic of their own to sow seeds of confusion as they sought to manufacture side-shows and fallen-star distractions aimed at derailing thought from the mess into which they have plunged this country.

At the time I dealt briefly with the sorry attempt to mislead by a bunch of jokers and jackals thus; (The Vincentian This Week 4/5/2012).

“The very painful tragi-comedy of Anesia’s shortened trip to her political kingdom, has already run its “nine days wonder”, and regretfully we speak of her now in the past tense.

The U.L.P is making a meal of Anesia’s replacement, as if it is any business of theirs.

An elected member of the opposition in our House is treated like dirt by the Speaker. As a collectivity they are put on show to fulfil the requirements of a two-party democracy, and are seen but not effectively heard.

For over ten years the N.D.P has not been able to get a debate going on the N.D.P Redemption Charter. So why the fuss on the part of the one- seat majority House to see that the vacancy in the Opposition Senate is filled promptly? We await word for over a year as to whether or not the Speaker had been properly elected in 2010.

Big men enjoy an empty guessing game. I like in particular Cecil Ryan’s “take” on the matter. It shows great imaginativeness. Firstly, the Major and not Eustace will be taking the N.D.P. into the next elections. Dr. Lewis will at last be appointed a Senator and the other Senator will be Maia Eustace to compensate Arnhim for the loss of the top Job! Vynette Frederick would have gone with the wind!

Somebody or the other, in order to keep the pot boiling, declared that Arnhim is going to ask Louise Mitchell-Joseph to fill in as for Sir James!

Other names are bandied about in the U.L.P circles just for the kicks-like Ernesto Cooke, Bert Francois and Frank Da Silva.

The greatest talk, however, swirls about the personality of Linton Lewis. He has attracted the full-throated support of media host Kingsley De Freitas.

But the Senatorship is not just a matter of credentials, it should be anyone who is likely to help the party to win, in this case not necessarily someone who is said to have his seat sewn up already, as Kingsley presumes and so talks of “enhancement.

By the same token, few self-respecting politicians will lose elections on three occasions on the trot, indicate that he wishes the leader’s job, and still look forward to that leader pulling his chestnuts out of the fire by nominating him a Senator.

Still on balance, and considering all sides of the question, Dr. Linton Lewis has my support which carries no weight, on either side of the matter. The Leader Arnhim Eustace is solely in charge, will perform dutifully as expected, always”. The U.L.P must leave alone or lump the decision”, and let us attempt to move on.

“Senator” Kenneth John There is an interesting episode in my life.

When I returned to S.V.G in late 1971 and resumed the struggle with the E.F.P, Othniel Sylvester especially insisted on my running on behalf of the P.P.P in West Kingstown in the elections scheduled for April 1972.

Time and again, I gave my reasons for refusal, but he persisted. Then on the eve of Nomination Day, I breathed a great sigh of relief, that I had escaped political involvement.

Lo and behold Othniel approached me at about 3 hours before Nomination closed. When I told him that it was too late now, that a picture of Emery Robertson had been pasted up all over town as P.P.P candidate for West Kingstown, the dead-pan response really shocked me :“How much is the cost of a tin of paint to replace Emery’s by your picture?” I held my ground regardless.

After the elections were hung 6 each for the P.P.P and Labour plus Independent “Son Mitchell” the latter invited a team from E.F.PKerwyn Morris, Parnell Campbell and me” to come to Bequia and advise him in delicate and sensitive negotiations expected to take place among the parties. The outcome was a Government of Premier Mitchell and six PPP ministers.

Mitchell then offered to me personally one of two senatorial positions reserved for the Government of the day, the other going to an old PPP stalwart, Jerome Burke.

Within a day or two, the offer was withdrawn. Sylvester thought that having rejected the PPP’s candidature beforehand, I should not be granted a “back-door” entrance into politics through its partner. Mitchell was amenable, and Jack Joachim was chosen to replace me. The rest is history!

A Foot-Note on F.O. It was said by Keith Joseph that not many sportsmen visited F.O when he needed their support most.

Not only did I visit his shrine regularly, but I took overseas based sportsmen on holiday home for a welcome rap session with F.O reminiscing on the days of yore.

Not only F.O but Ardon Daisley, Hudson Soso, Frankie Thomas, Vin Cuffy, Carl Glasgow and others saw much of me with friends in their last days. I even pay occasional visits to Mathew John, a past national cricketer in his mid nineties.

On the vexed matter as to whether it was once or twice that Worrell had been bowled down by Mason was not an attempt to reduce F.O in the eyes of the beholder, but perhaps to enlarge the growth of William O’Garro who had not an old school tie or other connections to bring to his cause, but had to fend for himself. I believe that the Jury has reported at Mason’s death, and the case is now closed.

I meant no evil when I exclaimed that the young thorough-bred of a tearaway bowler had a way with women, through no fault of his own.

Women tend to flock to icons, including sports heroes. And Bernard Marksman in the sanctuary of the church in his beautiful Eulogy did not fail to mention this endearing feature of Mason.

When I referred to a former hulk of man reduced to second childhood by wear-and-tear, I was simply philosophising on the vagaries of the human condition which needs to be watched every inch of the way.

For almost two decades, Frank Mason bestrode the bowlers’ run-up in these islands like the Colossus that he was, and will hardly ever be seen again.

The extra large turn-out at F.O’s funeral was testimony enough that a recognised hero had fallen in the battle of life, and was on his way home to a richly deserved peace and quiet and rest.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 9.

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Plain Talk or Plain Boring?

MY FRIEND Jomo Thomas in his Plain Talk commentary which is featured after the Unrendered programme on IKtv, gets his knickers in a twist in attempting to make a scathing attack on the St.Vincent Brewery for a TV commercial that promotes an ‘under the crown’ competition.

The script shows a man leaving home to buy groceries as instructed by his wife. She gives him a long shopping list and, as he reaches the Supermarket, he checks the list, checks his money and realises that ‘water more than flour’; he does not have enough money, to buy what his wife wants.

In his ‘cattle dead sell the chain’ frame of mind, he goes to a bar, takes the money and starts buying Hairoun beer.

The man becomes enraptured when he realises that the crown for each beer he buys is a winner. He is rewarded with groceries and other goodies, much more than his wife instructed him to buy, and much more than the money could have purchased.

Brilliant script — Love it. I could not have written a better one myself. It is done with a sense of humor that good TV commercials often employ for effectiveness.

Does Jomo really believe that Vincentians are going to do the exact same thing as the commercial suggests?

Are we that stupid?

Jomo, can’t you see the lighter and humorous side of this commercial, or are you just seeing the ‘joke for school children, death for crapaud’ side of it?

Surely, Vincentians don’t believe that Red Bull gives them wings, that reaching for Guinness is reaching for greatness or that Ralph Gonsalves is a Mohammad Ali when he asks, “What’s my name, Arnhim?”

Clearly, the odds of winning in the Brewery’s competition are far less than the commercial suggests. So too with the Lottery games; but they advertise that a lifestyle change awaits when you buy a ticket. Is the Lottery hoodwinking the public, are they being socially irresponsible?

“The Brewery should

pull the commercial.” Are you really serious?

Where are you going to draw the line with this censorship you are suggesting? How is this commercial anymore insensitive than the numerous commercials put out by LIME, Digicel and COURTS, when they have play and win promotions? All of them directly or indirectly beseech you to buy their products in the hope of a tangible reward — groceries, a holiday, a car, $1000 a month for a year. It’s fair game, once they deliver the promised prize to legitimate winners.

If you analyse most effective commercials, they use humor, slice of life aspirations, parody,

burlesque, exaggeration, juxtaposition, comparison, analogy and double entendre to grab the viewer’s attention. In the case of this Brewery commercial, the scenario is clearly exaggerated. I don’t think that the vast majority of Vincentians would use their grocery allocated money to buy Hairoun beers, in the hope of winning more than what their money could buy. What I do believe is that Vincentians wanting to buy a beer would probably choose Hairoun over competing brands because of the promotion currently being run. The message in the commercial is an attempt to reinforce that purchasing decision, not

Curtis-C and Skinny

to encourage persons to buy Hairoun instead of groceries.

I often enjoy looking at Plain Talk, but in this case, Jomo, you managed to make it Plain Boring.

The next time you drink a Hairoun beer, check under the crown and see if you find your sense of humor.

Tony Regisford

Police wet at ‘wet fete’ I WISH TO thank your paper, on behalf of the entire population of Layou, for publishing many of my letters.

I wish especially to thank you for publishing my last one in which I called on the police to erect, on the long stretch of main road, some sleeping policemen. They did not put those, but they did put some ‘SLOW’ signs. Congrats, Mr. Police.

However, the signs did not solve the problem; motorists speed much more now, as no one is there to monitor them. Please ask the Lotto to sponsor about five sign posts with the marking ‘10 mph through city/town’. And please charge the law-breakers.

In Layou, young boys are going about at nights breaking bottles in the street (main street). Reports have reached me, telling that they carry guns and fire them off as a sign of fearlessness. Apparently, citizens see and witness these acts, but are afraid to talk.

On the 23rd May, there was a ‘wet

fete’ at the school, the second in a series of fetes. A fight broke out.

Eye-witnesses say many youths had firearms at the scene, bottles were broken up in the street, and many persons got cuts.

The report is that the police ran down one person, who had a gun on him, but he ditched it, while on the run.

But the most disturbing news came the next day when it was learned that ‘hoseman, who was spraying the water on patrons, turned the hose on a uniformed police officer. If this is so, what is the police doing about that?

That man assaulted the officer, and believe me, if this is allowed to go unattended, it will happen again.

I am not a police officer, but my exprofession makes me a brother to all police around the world. Make your brothers proud if you, Mr. Officer, charge that man for assault and battery.

Ex-soldier

Support for the traditional family I READ A PIECE on Homosexuality in another newspaper some time ago.

The writer thought that now was a good time to raise the issue in public.

I want to say from the outset that I hope this country does not reach a point where it would even consider legalizing same sex marriages.

In the face of an assault on our traditional family structures, how can anyone in his right mind promote same sex marriages or same sex relationships?

We are already burdened with unwed couples living together and having children out of wedlock; single mothers choosing not to live with their partners; teens getting pregnant

(some of whom are having abortions or dropping out of school); mothers and fathers having extra-marital affairs, children growing up without parents and finding a sense of belonging in gangs.

Do we need to add another vice?

All these are signs of the erosion of the family and the institution of marriage.

Please, let us respect the sanctity of a man-woman relationship. We should not do anything to encourage homosexuality or same sex relationships in our society.

Nic

I must commend THE VINCENTIAN for its unbiased report (Friday 25th May, 2012) on the matter involving Curtis-C and Skinny Fabulous.

Nowhere in the article, written by Sheron Garraway, did I get the impression that the newspaper was taking one side over the other. It simply reported both sides, and left the readers to decide for themselves.

I know, regardless of how unbiased the report is, it is the type of story that will arouse emotions… some will side with Curtis-C, and others with Skinny; that is just how things go in the real world.

So, because I live in the real world, I want to say how honourable I thought Skinny was in his response to the ‘accusations’ Curtis-C might have made.

It’s been some time now that we haven’t heard about Curtis-C. In fact, I didn’t even know that he had dropped the Cutty Banton thing and taken on Curtis-C. Curtis-C (formerly Cutty Banton) is a pioneer in his own right. The new generation needs to know about his contribution. While I admit every effort should have been made to contact Curtis-C about the use of his lyrics, one wonders, in the interest of a developing music industry in SVG, whether he should have gone that far in his tirade against Skinny.

I suppose the end result is that Curtis-C, with this coverage, has been able to find a way back into the local music scene. Perhaps the run-in with Skinny is a blessing in disguise for him.

In the meantime, I want to say to all the soca artistes, that they must keep on doing what they are doing for, after all, you make Vincy Mas what it is.

Randy Savage

Some questions for Sir Dwight Venner SOME YEARS ago, it was probably in 2009 after a meeting of the Heads of Government and the leading technocrats of the OECS, you reported that as a response to the adverse impact of the global economic downturn, that it had been decided to inject substantial funds into * Are cocoa the sectors of tourism, farmers here construction and fishing. thinking about This approach, we were setting up their own told, was expected to association? stimulate economic * Is the PM going activity in the sub-region. to make good on his The questions: (a) Has promise to Civil Servants? there been an evaluation (Remember that of that plan? (b) When June deadline?) was it done and by * I must be stupid whom? What was the or something; but rationale for excluding how come electricity the agriculture sector bills still so high, from that plan? even though there While the farmers in was a lot of talk St. Vincent and the about cheaper fuel Grenadines have been from Venezuela? experiencing a sense of * Will the Owia Fishing Complex ever abandonment by the become truly politicians and operational? Why technocrats for some are school children years now, it would still saying it is a glorified be helpful if you would gas station? set out the parameters * Where have all which accommodate the the NGOs gone? farmers charting of their Have they all become own course within the stakeholders so that ECCU framework. they have dropped the ‘non’ from their LeRoy Providence name?

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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

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The most transparent The NDP’s proud record in education government in the history of SVG The NDP has done more for The issue THERE IS ONE development that has gone unnoticed in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, and that is the level of democracy that the ULP administration has created, and caused to be increased for the benefit of all Vincentians.

Despite all the “bad talking” by the NDP, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been recognized as one of the leading democratic countries in the Caricom region. In fact, the reports from international agencies are that the country has a freedom of information level that is on par with, or even better than countries like the United States, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

There are three concepts that most scholars of politics consider to be essential, to ensure that a high level of democracy exists in a country.

These are the freedom of political expression, freedom of speech and the freedom of the press. Political expression is seen in the fact that Vincentians are allowed to indicate their choice of political parties, through the ballot box. In fact, during the last two elections, the ULP administration has done much to ensure that Vincentians can cast their votes without being fettered in any way. The presence of international observers, and their subsequent positive reports, indicate the success of the ULP government in this regard.

Freedom of the Press It is the level of Press Freedom that has made the most impact on democracy in the nation. It is widely accepted that the current ULP administration is the most transparent in the history of governance in the St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves can boast about holding over three hundred media conferences since he came to power in March 2001. The NDP is not even close to this figure in seventeen years in government.

Journalists are free to ask whatever questions they like, and where no answers are available, Prime Minister Gonsalves will do the research and provide the information to the media.

No issue is restricted in a media conference, except for matters before the court, or where these affect the national security of the state.

No media house is threatened, except where they defame the Prime Minister. In fact, several media houses that carried slanderous statements about Prime Minister Dr.Gonsalves, were simply asked to apologise, and no further action was required.

Government officials routinely appear on radio programmes to talk about the policies of the ULP administration, and the projects that are being implemented. They make themselves available to answer questions from the listening public, including members of the NDP, who often call to make statements against the government. They are all accommodated; but we must point out that those ULP supporters who call Nice radio to make comments, are subject to harassment and are disconnected.

The House of Assembly In the House of Assembly, the members of the Opposition NDP are free to ask questions about the work of the Government. They do so without any fetters, even though at times they abuse the process, and test the patience of the Speaker and members on the government side.

Still, oral and written questions are

answered at length, with full disclosure.

Over one hundred plus Ministerial Statements are made by Ministers of Government, to clarify national issues of concern, and to provide information on matters that are being discussed in the national debate.

Let us not forget that the NDP parliamentarians have always left the House, during the wrap up on the budget debate. From our count, they have done so over the last nine years.

They do not want to be around to learn from Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, so as to improve their understanding of the workings of the government.

It is interesting to note that, when the House of Assembly meets, there is live broadcast on four radio stations, but never on the opposition supported Nice radio. It is therefore no surprise that supporters of the NDP remain so ignorant about the socio-economic development of the country, and this begs the question, as to whether or not this is a deliberate strategy by the NDP.

The Social Media The growth in the social media, particularly Face Book and Twitter, brings more focus and attention on the ULP administration. Daily, NDP supporters are on Face Book trying to take apart the work of the government. They are abusive, they lie and speak falsehoods, and they malign ULP ministers and key supporters of the ULP. We are happy that there are party stalwarts and fair minded Vincentians who are ready and willing to defend their government. These stalwarts post photos of key projects in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, so that Vincentian Face Book users in the Diaspora can see what is happening in their beloved country. This puts the lie to the dirty propaganda campaign mounted daily by the NDP, about key projects like the International Airport at Argyle; the Education Revolution; the drive to build houses for middle, low and no-income Vincentians; the developments in the Tourism and Health sectors, and the many achievements of Vincentians at home and abroad.

Conclusion By the very nature of its transparency in government, the ULP administration has been able to improve the level of political awareness and understanding among Vincentians.

Political tolerance, political literacy and the support for democratic values, freedom and human rights have increased, but there is still room for improvement.

The ULP administration has nothing to hide, and will never withhold information from Vincentians, except in matters of national security, and those before the court. The ULP has a proud record of good governance, and will continue in this direction. The governments of the United Kingdom and the United States have all praised the government for its governance record; so too has the World Bank and other regional and international organizations.

We will never go back to the days when Vincentians were kept in the dark about matters that affected their development, their daily lives and the

future of their children.

education than any other administration in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; so for the ULP to portray the NDP as not having any interest in education, or not having done anything for education when it was in office, is outrageous.

The NDP is cognizant of the importance of education in the development of our blessed multi-island state, and will continue to place tremendous emphasis on education when it returns to office.

When the New Democratic Party took office in 1984, the education system was plagued with serious problems which existed since the 1960s and which the Peoples Political Party (PPP) and the St. Vincent Labour Party (SVLP) did not adequately address.

Some of the problems were: a severe shortage of school places especially at the primary level; dilapidated school buildings; a serious shortage of furniture for both students and teachers; a teaching force with less than thirty (30) percent trained teachers; the lack of a comprehensive policy on the development of education.

The NDP administration, headed by Sir James Mitchell, vigorously attacked those problems and provided meaningful solutions at all levels in the education system.

the St. Vincent Teachers’ College for secondary school teachers, which enhanced their ability in the delivery of the curriculum.

Other major achievements

Among these were: the repeal of the Coutts Agreement so as to allow every female teacher to get maternity leave; the recognition of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Union, and the signing of the first Collective Agreement with the SVGTU; the establishment of the School Feeding Programme; the decentralizing of the Common Entrance (before 1984, only a few students were selected by teachers to write the Common Entrance Examination; the NDP changed all that and made it possible for all students of common entrance age to write the exam); establishment of the School Radio Broadcast; establishment of the Annual Science Fair; NDP administration began to pay the Economic Cost for all students studying at the University of the West Indies(UWI); increase the number of Primary schools island scholars from one to four; establishment of the Book Loan These primary schools were among those constructed, rebuilt or refurbished Scheme; the introduction of the Student Loan programme; established the by the NDP:Chateaubelair Methodist, schools computer programme and Brighton Government, Troumaca computer labs; the STATVEC project to Government, Belmont Government, enhance Technical and Vocational Rose Hall Government, Education came on stream; seeking Evesham Government, Westwood scholarships for students to study at Methodist, Lowmans Windward universities other than the UWI; Anglican, Spring Village Methodist, establishment of the Curriculum Marriaqua Government, Barrouallie Development Unit; a significant Anglican, Lauders Primary, Lowmans Leeward Anglican, Greggs Government, increase in teachers’ salary; the introduction of Professional Kingstown Government, Development Week; the passing of the Langley Park Primary, Lodge Village Education Act of 1992, replacing that of Government, Pamelus Burke Primary, 1937; establishment of the Community C W Prescod Primary, Sandy Bay Anglican (under construction), Sion Hill College.

It must be noted that the increased Government, Mary Hutchinson number of students who now pursue Primary and Calliaqua Government. studies at the University of the West Indies is largely due to three major Secondary schools initiatives of the NDP administration.

These secondary schools were also These are the introduction of the constructed, rebuilt or refurbished: Student Loan Programme, the payment Bethel High School (Campden Park),

by NDP administration of students’ Georgetown Secondary, North Union Economic Cost and the introduction of Secondary, New Adelphi Secondary, the A’ Level section of the Community Carapan Secondary, St. Vincent Boys College, now the Division of Arts, Grammar School, St. Vincent Girls’ Science and General Studies.

High School, Union Island Secondary With the establishment of the and Petit Bordel Secondary School.

Community College, the number of students writing the A ‘Level exams Technical Vocational Centres increased from fifty) to over three hundred, thus enabling more students Technical Vocational Centres were to be qualified for entry to universities. built at: Petit Bordel, Georgetown, Be reminded that A’ Level students Barrouallie and Campden Park. were housed at the St. Vincent Boys Grammar School which had insufficient Teacher training space. Also, the payment of the Economic Cost gave children of poor In 1984, less than forty (40) percent families the opportunity to further their of teachers were trained;, by 2001, when studies at university level. we left office, over 90% of the teachers in the system was trained.

Closure The University of the West Indies had begun its distance teaching and The NDP has always been committed learning programme through what was to the development of education in St. then called UWIDE, and about twenty Vincent and the Grenadines, and will (20) teachers had commenced their continue to demonstrate that Bachelor’s Degree programme in commitment when it returns to office.

Education. Most important, two (2) It was the leader of the NDP, the Hon. Head teachers had already obtained Arnhim Eustace, who announced at the their Bachelors Degree in Educational NDP’s convention in 2010 that when the Administration and were managing party is returned to office, he would primary schools. These were Mr. have given a laptop to each school child; Tyrone Burke, former Chief Personnel a programme that was implemented by Officer, and Mr. Hugh Wyllie, Former the ULP. Today, the NDP in opposition Deputy Chief Education Officer. continues to demonstrate its obligation In the secondary and post secondary to education through institutions, teachers were given the vincyclassroom.com. Undoubtedly, the opportunity to upgrade themselves in NDP has an impressive track record in local training and at the university education, and should be given the level. As a matter of fact, a special opportunity to continue to govern St. training programme was developed at Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 11.

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Morals still valuable “The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. But education which stops with efficiency may prove the greatest menace to society. The most dangerous criminal may be the man gifted with reason, but with no morals.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968); received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.

the importance of pursuing high moral standards. But the task is not merely to talk about morals in the classroom or assembly halls. The more challenging and more influential task is for teachers and administrators to live it out before their children. This is an THE ARNOS VALE METHODIST CHURCH awesome responsibility and privilege. has designated 2012 as the year when they will show forth God’s POWER as they Oh that our children will be able to say of us what Alexander the Great (356celebrate their 50th anniversary as a congregation. And they have chosen the 323 BC) said of his teacher (Aristotle): “I thank my father for giving me life; acronym POWER to remind themselves and the extended community of the value but I thank my teacher for showing me how to live well.” Teachers can be, of prayer, outreach, worship, education, and are, very influential. This is just and relationships. On Sunday, May 6th, as true for inspiring children to excel 2012, I had the distinct pleasure and privilege of worshiping with them as they academically as it is for encouraging invited me to share some thoughts on the them to walk the moral high road with value of relationships. On that event, my dignity and pride — sometimes against dear friends and mentors, Brother Monty great odds and a lot of peer pressure.

The education system therefore (not Maule and Sister Laura Anthony Browne, to be limited to the curriculum) must also shared thoughts in relation to prayer continue to ensure that adequate and worship respectively. The church attention is given to moral choir had evidently practised long and development. Woe to a society that hard, for their renditions appeared to be encourages academic brilliance and flawless, and they blended their neglects to teach about morals. A melodious voices in praise and worship.

The Martin Luther King Jr. quotation that brilliant individual who lacks morals is a most dangerous person. A brilliant is presented as the prelude to my thoughts on the subject had been nestled individual who lacks self-discipline is a most dangerous person. The great in the brochure that the church had Roman statesman and orator Marcus circulated that morning. I am therefore, Porcius Cato (234-149 BC) stated it so indebted to the organisers for providing well when he warned: “The worst ruler the “launching pad” for this week’s is one who cannot rule himself.” Yes, column. we have a responsibility as a society to During the last few weeks, I have had the distinct pleasure to chat with a ensure that we are responsible guardians of the thoughts of our wards. number of teachers and education planners about this most valuable topic This is especially so as they are regularly bombarded by television — the role of education. In many programmes and Internet sites that instances, I have sought to convince invite them to compromise on them that education is not static; it principles. Writing long before these should be always evolving to meet modern inventions, the American society’s needs. And yet, there are aspects of education that must remain writer and novelist Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) reminded us that “People constant. For example, character want to be amused, not preached at, development and morals must always you know. Morals don’t sell nowadays.” be considered the cornerstone of education ... for it is the cornerstone of So we know that the fight is on. But we also know that we must not relent; society as we know it. Thus, while we cannot retreat. We must forever there may be some societies that advance, with renewed commitment abandon moral behaviours, and and vigour as we see the armies of evil pronounce that mankind is “free to and compromise advance. We must choose whichever course he takes,” we win! We cannot afford to lose this have a moral responsibility and battle for the moral spaces in our obligation to society to make sure that children’s minds. the curriculum reflects and embraces Morals still count. Morals still have those principles that preserve the value.

Morals are still desirable. May moral fabric that make civilizations we never forget to sound those clarion strong. And so, we tell our children that it is okay to be pure; that virginity calls as we seek to be guardians of our society. May we not cower or cringe (in males as well as females) is when we are required to stand up desirable through to marriage; that and/or speak out in defence of moral, same-sex marriage is an abomination to God (as indicated in the Holy Bible); uplifting, behaviours. And, conversely, and that the pursuit of truth is just as may we have the courage and fortitude to reject those who seek to encourage valuable as avoiding stealing and compromise of the principles that keep murder. These are foundational to societies strong. We must not, we societies that will prosper. We must never compromise these principles and cannot, we will not, surrender to those forever guard against those who seek to whose moral fibres have already been have us compromise our value systems shredded and shattered, and may have conscious or unconscious agendas to (sometimes inviting us to be more reduce society’s standards to the lowest “enlightened”). denominator. No, we want better than Should the schools be teaching that for our grandchildren and their morals? We have no choice really.

Society is formed and groomed by what grandchildren. And so we forge ranks to defend what is pure and just ... and the citizens extract from their homes, neighbourhoods, churches, schools and moral. Morals are still valuable. the like. The schools are on that list.

Send comments, criticisms & And it must continue to play a suggestions to prominent role in showing our wards julesferdinand@gmail.com

West Indies Cricket and Failure THE FAILURE OF THE WEST INDIES cricket team mirrors the larger failure in West Indian society. Our failure is a reflection of the unwillingness on our part, especially our leaders and opinion shapers, to not just imagine greatness or nostalgia of great times, but to concentrate mental processes that will result in the transformation of our actions, our societies and our performance in all fields of endeavour, including cricket.

The underachievement of our cricket team hurts us most because, while we have not had a great or transcendental leader, business or government, we have had a great cricket team that dominated and stood unparalleled on the world stage. As England bend our cricketers’ minds into submission, my only solace came from viewing the movie ‘Fire in Babylon’.

The movie depicted more than just the glory days of the team of Lloyd, Richard, Roberts, Holding and Greenidge, et al. It was a celebration of much more. It was a celebration of necessary traits that are so vividly missing in Caribbean societies and by extension West Indies cricket.

It was a real treat to listen to Richards and Lloyd talk about the importance of fitness and discipline; to hear Greenidge and Holding reminisce on the prejudice that roiled them to resistance and greatness on the cricket field ; and to marvel as Vivian Richards speaks of his strength of character in resisting the ‘riches’ of apartheid South African, US$1 million to play as an ‘honorary white.’ Richards had the presence of mind (red, black and green wrist band and all) to understand that had he gone to South Africa, more of our players would follow him, and the seige against the apartheid system would have loosened.

These men were masters at their craft. They were the true expression of what real men should be like. They represented a region that was awakening. I never knew that our players, whom I cheered on as a youth, were so conscious. But then again they were products of their times: a period of world upheavals and revolution, independence and Black pride.

Some say pressure burst pipes and veins. But pressure also creates precious gem such as diamonds.

After the debacle of 1975/76 when the West Indies lost to Australia 5 games to 1, a team of all conquering heroes was molded. The fight against colonialism, for independence and black pride, was the cement of that team. The fight for economic survival and environmental responsibility should be highlighted as the dark clouds out of which the clear sky of redemption and resurgence should be forged.

We speak here not just about West Indies cricket, but about Caribbean civilization. To get there, we will have to do away with all of our bad habits and thinking, some of which, to this day, are seen as virtues.

As early as 1992, the preeminent West Indian Sir Shridath Ramphal argued: ‘the time has long passed when we can afford to be half-hearted defenders of regionalism. We have espoused that fashion for too long without changing our clothes. In the process, we have become not a model of unified action in regional affairs, but the most fragmented and over governed people in the world... Is

there any other group of 8 million people anywhere who would not just permit, but who sometimes appear to be proud of a government superstructure of 13 heads of government, 13 heads of state and flags and national anthems, 13 parliaments, many with two chambers, seven currencies, 13 passports, all for 8 million people, less than the city of Philadelphia or the state of Virginia?’

The absurdity of West Indian fragmentation stares all of us full in the face, including the 13 Heads of governments, all of whom, without exception, have long espoused the case for West Indian integration, but only in the abstract.

This silly game that our leaders play is reflected in our conversation about cricket. The legendary Michael Holding is a good, no nonsense voice in cricket.

However, when he speaks about West Indies cricket, he seems to be a nationalist at heart, Jamaica first. He is a harsh critic of the West Indies Cricket Board and a firm defender of Jamaican players.

Barbadian commentators christen Barbadian cricket talent as destined for greatness, even before the young Barbadian boy takes the field of play.

Listen to their defense of the persistent failings of Kirk Edwards, Brathwaite and others before them. Or listen to Vincentians and others defend Darren Sammy, simply because he is ‘small islands’ man.

We all seem not to notice that whereever and when ever reason takes flight and senseless passion is allowed a secured seat in the space between our two ears, mediocrity, failure and poor performance hold sway.

Is it by chance that Barbadian opposition leader Owen Arthur spearheaded the work for the Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME) and then vigorously opposed the ascendancy of the St Lucian born wife of former Prime Minister, David Thompson, to high political office in Barbados. Or that we wasted so much time, effort and money to bring the CSME into reality, only for the same leaders of Caricom to agree to place CSME on hold. Babylon is not an individual. Babylon is an attitude.

Fire...

Our thinking is shackled, and as a consequence our actions are ill informed. As the West Indian Commission led by Sir Shridath recognized two decades ago, ‘the region’s leaders enjoy being big fish in small ponds...their lust for power makes them cowards where the movement towards West Indian nationhood is concerned.’

This boss mentality coupled with the cowardice prevent ground breaking conversations and decisions that will enliven our region’s government, business and sporting institutions. It is small wonder that our cricketers continue to underachieve. We must not blame them. Let us all blame ourselves.

The problem is us.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

GonsalvesÊ economic blundering sinks SVGÊs trade exports WHEN GONSALVES took office in SVG in 2001, SVG’s trade exports was $137 million; by 2011, Gonsalves’ economic blundering and gross incompetence had pushed SVG’s trade exports to their lowest level of $22 million.

Gonsalves is a liability to our country. The graph shows the serious decline of SVG’s trade exports under arguably the worst PM that SVG has had. SVG’s economy is in serious meltdown under Gonsalves, and failure to stop this meltdown could see SVG become another United Nations food aid state like Haiti.

Researched by Ivan O’Neal BSc(Hons), MSc, MBA

The decline in our country’s ability to export under Gonsalves has caused the increase in crime that has plagued our country. He has failed to build a single factory, failed to create much needed jobs, and failed to increase export earnings.

So where has the blundering Gonsalves gone wrong? The core problem with Gonsalves is that he is totally out of his depth, not being a university graduate in finance. Economics needs precision, but the dying SVG economy shows that Gonsalves is as precise as a sledgehammer.

Gonsalves is taxing the people and businesses way too much. Households are struggling to feed their families, and businesses are struggling to get sales because of high taxes. Gonsalves must abolish VAT and cut taxes. Brazil has cut taxes to encourage its economy to grow, and the IMF has just advised the UK to cut taxes because it has no growth.

In 2007, Gonsalves killed the National Commercial Bank with an outrageous overdraft of $170 million. According to the SVG Director of Audit, in 2007 Gonsalves spent $63 million without the prior approval of the SVG Parliament. In a developed country, Gonsalves would be put before a High Court Judge for spending $63 million without the prior approval of parliament.

There has been no intelligent economic leadership in SVG since 2001. Gonsalves’ ignorant economic strategy of shaking the RED begging bowl around the world, has decimated the economy and been highly embarrassing for SVG. A Green government will bring in productive sectors to create jobs and surplus revenue. We will make full use of our indigenous resources to

electricity with renewable energy sourced electricity within five years, and cut the price of electricity by 50% to stimulate growth.

We need an intelligent education strategy focusing on mathematics, science and technology to strengthen our human capital and bring in hightech investment and high-paid jobs. stimulate growth in the economy. China has the An SVG Green Party government, led by Ivan world’s largest economy, so it makes economic sense O’Neal, offers SVG the intelligent economic to cut ties with Taiwan and open ties leadership needed to turn around the mess that the with China. Taiwan must go.

SVG needs an economic strategy driven by trade incompetent Gonsalves has created, and offers to bring jobs and prosperity to the people. exports. This will create masses of jobs and bring prosperity to the people of SVG. We urgently need SVG Green Party substantial structural adjustments in the public www.svggreenparty.org sector, with policies such as replacing oil-produced

We must demand that our politicians speak the truth!

MOST POLITICIANS see politics as a mass of lies, evasions, folly and vindictiveness. Politics is founded on the goofy notion of collective responsibility. For reasons too ludicrous to explain, most political colleagues pretend to share the same brain. This helps explain the reason for the great political chaos in our country.

No politician can have thoughts of their own without the expressed consent of their political leader and colleagues.

Late at night, when ambitious politicians embrace in their secret corridors of power, “ALL citizens they prey”.

A politician who publicly owns up to be individualistic in his own thinking, is expected to bite the bullet of isolation. However, dishonorable consequences abound for the puppet politicians who stay ‘on the part of deceptive diplomacy’, as these political “pit bulls” feed the masses with rumors of ‘division’.

There are two things we must always associate with politics, and they are TRUST AND TRUTH. Without these, we go into the realm of another ideology; but soon and very soon they will all pay a price, for injustices never go unpunished.

We the people must WORK TOGETHER IN UNITY. If we really want to see a change, “we must tap off each other’s strength” We must hold all of our politicians to account; but we Consequences of telling the truth cannot do it just by words alone, but with our own actions. We can The people, you and I included, demand that our careless are the ones to be blamed for this politicians lift their standards, sorry state of public affairs. But and we must encourage the must democracy be predicated on politicians with guts, and those pretense? Can’t someone stand up that are willing to take the and tell the truth for a change? sacrifice for true democracy for In our own country, the the masses, we must give them government has been practising our sincere and full support when deceit. Every day they sow seeds they stand up against their of dishonesty, but clearly after a “internal dictators”. The real few years, it is now catching up lunacy of democracy is that, while with them, and they have also we all know politicians will do now paid the high price of anything for power, we still allow diminishing support. It has them to dictate and bully.

Let’s change all of that, let us gotten so bad, that at the last The spin doctors again start practising our moral elections, affluent Santa Claus and spiritual values; we must had to be called in to ‘save their Add to the mix their fancy art show our politicians that we the day’. of ‘political spin,’ and in time Just a few weeks ago, a young people are still their bosses. We you’ve got a recipe for the biggest must show our disgust at their political tragedy that can happen female politician had the guts to arrogance and deceit. Why for stand up to her own party, to in any country. ‘Spin doctors’ example do we fall every time for speak some HARD FACTS. Her think that by covering up a lie their rhetoric and bribes? Let us so called colleagues saw it as with another lie, we’ll be dumb in strength, clear our hurdles, let enough to believe the original lie. contempt because she offended every single politician (from their status quo of pretence and They do this openly. Politicians Prime Minister to Opposition political submissiveness. appear on the news and on their (leader) ponder that there can In an instant of betrayal, her rehearsed talk shows in order to and will always be ‘punitive political life was shattered. say nothing, hoodwink and say consequences”. The test must not things everyone knows they don’t WHAT INJUSTICE!! just come at election time, but anytime they are disloyal to their We have had enough of this think, and that they don’t ‘control MASTERS. Vincentians, wake up! hypocrisy. I asked the question: the message’. They then spin a There is still hope, remember the Was her axing justified? I SAY new story all together! , NO! The axing was all about her words of our Lord; (John 8:32) proclaiming an end to spin.

ONLY THE TRUTH SHALL ‘colleagues’ political egos. Truth We can be as clever and and trust were thrown out of the TRULY SET US FREE! mature about government and politics as we like, but the fact is window, and democracy was cut Concerned citizen at its throat. politicians (even, or especially, the best ones) are ‘all artists of deception!’ We know it, they know it, and any school child would spot it in an instant.

Politicians dodge questions like super heroes dodge bullets. They manufacture unity. And then, to really rub salt into our wounds, they hold meetings about public trust, and naïve, so called contemptible people like me have to go cover them.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 13.

News

Diabetes help on its way!

THIS COUNTRY IS RECEIVING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE from the Taiwanese Embassy in the development of our Health Care, especially as it relates the area of Diabetes and Diabetic Patients at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH).

On Tuesday 29th May, 2012, the Embassy held a Diabetes Monitoring, Care and Prevention Luncheon to share information with the public and other medical professionals in this area, and to introduce team of visiting Taiwanese specialists.

Speaking at the Luncheon, Dr. Simone Keizer — Beache, Medical Director of MCMH, expressed her pleasure to be working along with the Taiwanese.

The team visit at a time when, according to Dr. Rosyln Ambrose of the Caribbean Medical Imaging Center, at least one amputation, the result of diabete, was performed in SVG every week.

Taiwanese Ambassador H.E. Weber V.B. Shih cited the 30 years of co-operation between SVG and Taiwan as having produced “juicy fruits”,

and expressed his thanks to “private institutions” who assisted.

The visiting team of Taiwanese specialists was introduced by Mr. Richard Chen, First Secretary at the Taiwanese Embassy.

The team is headed by Dr. I-chieh Mao, Metabolism and Endocrinologist, of Changhua Christian Hospital. In his presentation, Dr. Mao explained the basics of Diabetes as a noncommunicable disease, and also shared some insights as to how his team would be assisting.

This is not the first time that Taiwanese Doctors have come to SVG, as Dr. Mao recalled their August 2010 visit. He expressed how happy he was to be a part of the returning contingent, returning and said that they are ready to “offer training, experience and expertise” to our blessed land.

The team consists of three doctors and two nurses from the Chaghua Christian Hospital in Central Taiwan who work along with the

The visiting Medcial team from Taiwan with Minister of Health Clayton Burgin (4th from left) and Ambassador Weber V.B. Shih (3rd from right).

Right: Dr. I-chieh Mao, Head of the team, addressed the Luncheon.

Diabetes Association of the Republic of China.

The contingent has a fourpoint plan governing their work in SVG: to apply screening equipment and staff training in St. Vincent using glucometers and other devices;

to do the first Diabetes map of St. Vincent, similar to one they did in St. Lucia; to set up a telemedicine programme; and to establish a professional diabetes education team and set up teaching materials.

Following Dr. Mao’s presentation, those gathered

were invited to have their blood glucose levels checked by the two Taiwanese nurses.

The event closed with a “healthy low calorie” lunch to encourage all present to be conscious of what they eat, and to be always aware of Diabetes causes and effects.

Indian Arrival Day to be ‘significantly different’

by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT THE COMMEMORATION OF INDIAN ARRIVAL DAy (IAD) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be “significantly different” this year, according to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin International (GOPIO-SVG).

The organization said in a statement issued in the United States, that there will be many activities leading to June 1, the officiallyrecognized IAD. As in previous years, the statement said St. Vincent and the Grenadines Indian Heritage Foundation will be organizing a reenactment of the landing

of Indians at Indian Bay, followed by a procession to Heritage Square, where there will be a display of Indian cuisine, among other activities.

For the first time, there will be an International Indian Diaspora Conference from June 1-3, the statement said.

Since 1975, Indian Diaspora Conferences have been held mainly in Trinidad and Tobago and other larger territories.

However, a decision was taken to organize one this year in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to coincide with IAD, the statement said.

It said the conference is being organized by the GOPIO-SVG in collaboration with the SVG Indian Heritage Foundation, with the support from the

Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

GOPIO is an international organization representing about 25 million people in the Indian Diaspora.

Organizers said participants will come from several countries, including India, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.

Delegates will include government ministers and diplomats, as well as other high-level officials.

The statement said the conference is jointly organized by Dr. Kumar Mahabir, co-chair of the GOPIO Academic Council and professor at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), and Dr. Arnold Thomas, GOPIO International

Coordinator for the Caribbean.

For the three-day period, GOPIO-SVG said the conference will begin with the opening ceremony at the Peace Memorial Hall, attended

by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves.

Remarks will also be delivered by the president of GOPIO International, Minister of Culture, president of the SVG Indian Heritage Foundation and a minister from Sri Lanka.

A cultural presentation is also included in the opening program, organizers said.

On June 2, several panel discussions will be held at Murray Heights Hotel, McKie’s Hill, Kingstown, ranging from topics such as conditions under which Indians came, cultural and religious adaptation, and

Dr. Arnold Thomas, GOPIO International Coordinator for the Caribbean and local coordinator of the Conference.

Dr. Kumar Mahabir, cochair of the GOPIO Academic Council, one of the organizers of the International Indian Diaspora Conference.

integration and assimilation.

Following a lunch break, participants will move to Diamond to join a Seventh Day Adventist Evangelistic Crusade, where there will be a special session dealing with the rise of Adventism among

Indians in SVG and Belize.

On Jun. 3, organizers said participants will be taken on an island tour to places of interest, climaxing at Argyle, where SVG Indian Heritage Foundation will hold a Family Fun Day.

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Bequia hosts Âa poetry partyÊ Williams, Silma Duncan, Peggy Carr and La Fayette Johnson were voiced POETS, from mainland St. Vincent and in moods that ranged from the Bequia, some tried and tested, some still comedic to the affectionate, all though budding, converged on the Fig Tree impressing the small but appreciative Restaurant, Bequia, for a moonlight, audience. seasde event dubbed ‘a poetry party’.

The evening became so The event, held on Sunday 27th inspirational that closet poets, Sharkia May, was the result of a collaborative George and North Carolina native effort involving the UWI Open Elizabeth Meadows, who secretly Campus, the Bequia Bookstore and penned their feelings during the the Fig Tree Restaurant. readings, were moved to step to the It meshed perfectly with the UWI podium and share with the audience, Open campus’s initiative to make while recognizable local artists such as persons more appreciative of the Grace Peters-Clarke and Toni Johnson spoken word. also shared impromptu, in the The works of local poets like Cecil moment.

‘Blazer’ Williams, David ‘Darkie’ Manager/Proprietor of the Bequia

by SHERON GARRAWAY

Book Shop and Fig Tree Restaurant Cheryl Johnson said that she was pleased “to be partnering with the university to get persons more enthusiastic about the arts, after hearing about UWI’s collaboration with Cambridge University to promote poetry.”

Johnson, who also read , noted that her affair she dubbed ‘a poetry party’ was similar to events she attended with friends while living in Canada.

Head of the UWI Open The audience gives a keen ear to a recital at the Campus, Deborah ‘poetry party’.

Dalrymple, said that she was pleased when the corporate sector persons to continue to do their part in building consciousness. supports the arts, and called on

NTRC takes Open Day to Sharpes Left : Students of the Lodge Village school gather after a session, to discuss what they learned.

From left: Deborah Dalrymple, Elizabeth Meadows, David ‘Darkie’ Williams, Silma Duncan, Sharika George, La Fayette Johnson, Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams, Grace Peters-Clarke, Cheryl Johnson and Toni Johnson, at the ‘poetry party.

Participants were exposed to basic computer skills, and introduced to the RESIDENTS OF REDEMPTION SHARPES internet.

AND SURROUNDING AREAS WERE GIVEN Along with Mr. Duncan, in THE OPPORTUNITY to familiarize attendance were: Mr. Rohan Charles, themselves with the use of the computer Accountant at the NTRC and Ms. Desand internet when the National Marie Bruce, ICT Tutor attached to Telecommunications Regulatory the Department of Adult and Commission (NTRC) took its Open Day to Continuing Education. that community, Tuesday, 22nd May, The NTRC has been involved in the transforming the Sharpes Community installation of internet access and Centre into a veritable computer lab. computers in twenty-eight locations, According to Mr. Kyron Duncan, including twelve learning Resource Administrator of the Universal Service Centres, nine rural schools, four Find (USF), the day’s activity was one Community Centres and three other in a series of Open Day activities that community locations,namely the NIS the NTRC has been conducting and Golden Years Activity Centres at Cane will continue to conduct, at various Grove and Black Point, and The Community Centre locations, “where Salvation Army Headquarters in the USF has implemented free Kingstown. twenty-four hour WiFi high speed The Open day activities will wireless internet access”. continue at some of these venues.

This was the fifth in the Open Day series begun in the latter part of 2011, and aimed, Duncan said, at creating “synergy between the equipment and services installed [at the locations], and the education of the community members.”

The activity was deemed a success, having attracted more persons who were unfamiliar with the technology than those who had been previously introduced to it. Among these were classes from two USF Administrator Kyron Duncan (left) schools and a number of demonstrates a computer procedure to a adults. participant.

By GLORIAH…

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 15.

Graduates satisfy

by GLORIAH…

THE GRADUATES CALYPSO TENT commenced its 2012 season by holding its first calypso tent show at the Victoria Park last Tuesday, 29th May. The cast comprised of an impressive line-up of calypsonians including: Julian ‘Duvalle’ Pollard, Kenroy ‘Shaka’ Shepard, ‘Rankin Sam’, Linton ‘Sweet 16’ Samuel, Zamfir ‘Man Zangy’ Adams, Michael ‘Black Messenger’ John, Kingsley ‘Hero’ Roberts, Glen ‘Bump I’ Richards, Sonny ‘Sonny Banks’ Young, George ‘Jah Burke’ Nedd, Glenroy ‘Sulle’ Caesar, Gabriel ‘Jessikyah’ Culzac, Nilio ‘Gumbsy’ Gumbs; and reigining Calypso Monarch Maxwell ‘Tajoe’ Francis.

In front of a crowd of die hard calypso fans, the proceedings began with ‘Duvalle’ rendering his very serious commentary, ‘Generation X’. He was followed by ‘Man Zang’, ‘Jah Burke’ and ‘Hero’ whose clear voices set the pace for more up-tempo numbers from ‘Shaka’s’ with ‘One Big Ting’, ‘Jessikyah’s’ ‘Misbehave’. ‘ Sulle’ was his usual self, hitting out at societal ills in his ‘Price Hikers’, while’Bump I’ lent his suave personality on his performance. ‘Rankin Sam’ kept up his constant pace of commentary with abundant lyrics, causing a stir of excitement among the crowd, on account of his energy and perseverance. ‘Gumbsy’ also gave rhythmic commentary with his ‘Communication’.

However, the crowd appeared confused when ‘Black Messenger’ gave his ‘Tribute

to the Martyrs and Heroes 9/11/01’ with lyrics telling about how much he “loved New York.”

Highlights The night would have gone into a realm of disappointment, had it not been for artistes like Aubrey ‘Rasbu’ Burgin, ‘Sweet 16’, ‘Sonny Banks’ and ‘Tajoe’.

‘Rasbu’ was slated to compete in an Extempo and Picong contest labeled, ‘Rasbu vs The Rest’. This did not materialize. Instead, deviating from the regular extempo melody, Rasbu chose a soca rhythm and bellowed out lyrics that were crowd specific and extremely funny.

‘Sweet 16’ graced the stage, resplendent in black formal suit with a label, ‘Police’ on his jacket. He aroused much response when he delivered, in his inimitable style, a number he called ‘The Guilty Cop’. It detailed the story of a police officer who was found guilty of several charges, some of which were committed while on duty.

The crowd went wild, and ‘Sweet 16’ had to be recalled.

Also recalled was ‘Sonny Banks’, whose ‘Violence Against Men” struck a chord with the men in the audience, but also wowed the women.

He was smooth, hilarious, and sang with conviction, putting in the relevant body language to drive home his point. He is a definite one to watch this year.

Also on the watch list is current Calypso Monarch, ‘Tajoe’. Having won the hearts of calypso fans and judges

‘Tajo’, Calypso Monarch 2011, gave early notice that he is ready and able to defend his title. alike with his 2011 ‘Suzie’, he produced another biting piese, “Read Between the Lines’, a ball by ball commentary directed at women who need to make themselves aware of the wiles of the men in their lives, who do everything not to commit to a relationship and who are potential abusers.

When interviewed by THE

‘Sonny Banks’ won over his audience with against the grain ‘Violence against Men’.

VINCENTIAN, ‘Tajoe’ said that his other song is ready but he is just waiting on his producer to launch it. When asked about his chances of capturing this year’s crown, Tajo said, “I think my chances are good. It’s just left up to the judges at the end of the day. I put out my song early so the message could spread.

‘Sweet 16’ deserved every bit of the encore he received.

It is a current message and most women could relate to it.”

The Graduates, which began as the ‘Undergraduates’ in 1983, will be in the Victoria Park again next Tuesday, 5th June. This year’s Calypso Semi-final, dubbed Fantastic Friday, is expected to be both exciting and very competitive.

Bullock looking for tangible dividends He regarded it as a “bold step,” and a move “in the right direction.”

MURRAY BULLOCK, chairman of the He pointed to it as aimed at especially National Lotteries Authority, is looking persons abroad, and described it as forward to returns on the institution’s “the closest thing to being there in investment into the VC3 Channel 203, on person.” cable television here.

The NLA chairman outlined that his Bullock made his position clear last company was not making merely a grant Tuesday morning at Victoria Park, during towards the effort, but was looking a press conference hosted by the Carnival forward to “reaping tangible dividends.”

Development Corporation (CDC).

Bullock used the opportunity to The Channel has been in operation for highlight NLA’s contribution to the the past month, but Tuesday was special. carnival. He referred to significant The proceedings of the press conference financial assistance made by the NLA, were beamed live on the Channel. and also to improvements to Victoria As far as Bullock was concerned, the Park, Bullock stated.

Channel is “the way to go.”

Hans King, who serves as Advisor to

by WILLIAM KOJAH ANTHONY

Murray Bullock, Chairman of the NLA.

the CDC, described the coming on stream on the Channel as “one of the biggest things for Vincy Mas 2012.”

VC 3, available on Channel 203, broadcasts all day, while Pay Per View on Channel 204 will cater for Live events.

Persons can link up with the Karib Cable network to get the Miss SVG Pageant live this Saturday. Others can arrange for delayed broadcasts on Channel 205.

King praised Steve Wallace whom he credited with being the live wire behind the production.

CDC’s Chairman Dennis Ambrose endorsed the launching of the Channel, and stated that Vincy Mas will benefit from its introduction.

16. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

LIME and Presidente deliver

by KENVILLE HORNE WHEN TELECOMMUNICATION giant LIME and Presidente Beer announced a partnership earlier this year, persons speculated as to the ‘magnitude’ of such a partnership.

But on Friday, May 25, the thousands who turned out at the Victoria Park to enjoy the LIME 357 launch of Niki and Hans ‘Free up party’ got a true indication of the hits, , the extent of this crowd was partnership.

L-R: Walter Brige, Khago and Edwin Yearwood of Krosfyah. thrown into The show featured frenzy. performances from the Speeches by Senator Elvis Charles, Bomani followed with some past best local soca artistes, Jamaican hits and concluded with his 2012 hit Danchall super star Khago and Edwin Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and John Mason of song, ‘Saga Boy’. The veteran Poorsah Yearwood and Krosfyah.

The stage lights, the decoration and CDC out of the way, it was the turn of stroked some memories, but it was his a prefabricated ,floor compliments the the Miss SVG 2012 contestants. They ‘Wrong Hole’ that had the crowd going did a dance routine, and their wild.

CDC and the NLA, embellished the introductory remarks brought loud First Lady, the ladies’ accommodation and atmosphere at cheers from an eager crowd. representative, did not let her fans the Victoria Park, and there was DJs Shane and Q fed the fire with down with her provocative lyrics and plenty of excitement as the crowd the latest soca and dancehall hits. outfit. wined, danced and jumped to the When the band Kinetics, featuring ‘Skarpyan’ paid tribute to Bob sweet music echoing from the large Hans and Niki delivering popular soca Marley but it was his 2012 ragga soca sound system . hit, ‘Wining’, that had the ladies twisting their bodies into some outrageous contortions. .

The LIME Soca Dans came out with a mixture of soca, rap and comedy.

Danielle Veira, complemented by the rap sensation Prez took over, to precede Shanelle with her big ‘Behind

of Kinetics. the truck’.

Luta brought his usual energy and the surprise package for the night, ‘Walter Bree Briggs’ , who was performing for the first time in front of thousands. He was undaunted, and he and Luta “brushed” down Victoria Park.

When the MC announced Khargo, the featured artiste from Jamaica, his fans moved closer to the stage. They were soon jumping to his big hits like ‘Badmind ah go kill dem’, and ‘Tun up the ting’. He had the ladies singing to his chart topping number, ‘Take me as I am’. He concluded what was truly a great performance with his latest release for 2012, ‘Llove summer’. .

Krosfyah brought the house down with their famous selections. The melodious voice of lead singer Edwin Yearwood closed the curtain on a show hailed by most as memorable and a great Caribbean night out.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 19.

News

Samuel celebrates with Karib Cable

GIA SAMUEL is the first winner in Karib Cable’s ‘Come Celebrate and Win with Karib Cable’ promotion.

Samuel, a resident of Bridgetown, Biabou, collected her winnings at the Karib Cable office on Tuesday, May 29. The winning prizes included tickets for two for the Miss SVG show, and other Karib Cable prizes.

“I am happy to have won these prizes from Karib Cable. As with most promotions you take part in, you never expect to win,” said Mrs. Samuel as she collected her prizes.

Samuel expressed how pleased she was when she received the telephone call from a Karib Cable representative with the good news.

“The first thing I asked was what did I win?” she recalled.

And as far as what she intends to do with her winnings, “I will give one of the tickets to my daughter who teaches at the Kingstown Anglican School so that she we can go to the Miss SVG show together,” she said.

Vance Garraway, Marketing Executive of Karib Cable, reiterated his company’s intent on saying thanks

to its customers, citing the ‘Come Celebrate and Win with Karib Cable as just another way of demonstrating this.

Persons who up for any of Karib Cable’s service, and customers who pre-pay their bills or pay off the full balance, are eligible to enter a weekly draw L-R: Gia Samuel collects her Karib Cable (KC) under the current ‘goodies’ from KC representative Nataki Franklyn. promotion.

A new approach towards Agriculture THERE IS MUCH public discussions taking place in SVG as to which Government ‘killed bananas’ and, by extension, Agriculture.

The fact is since the 1980s, we knew of the creation of the World Trade Organization (WTO), which was designed to regulate world trade. Because our Banana Industry was structured around a protected market in Europe, it goes without saying the protection we enjoyed was counter to the WTO mandate of free trade. Therefore, when North American corporations like Dole and Chiquita put on a Latin American disguise successfully challenged our protection at the WTO, the removal and dismantling of such protection created the reality that exists today.

The decisions, albeit external and beyond our

control, of the WTO were devastating blows against our banana industry.

I am advised that the Government has secured a grant from the EU of just over EURO’s nine million, to inject into the Agriculture sector. Some experts are seeing this as the last train to San Fernando or the last opportunity to really create a new approach towards the sector. Now therefore, is not the time for apportioning blame; here lies an opportunity to use this cash injection as the impetus to create a new culture and new support structures to invigorate the agricultural sector.

This new culture must, as a necessity, engender a spirit of buy local and support local. It must also effect new waves of confidence and entrepreneurship, affording finance that

will encourage new business opportunities for the sector. This new culture must also emphasise the need for a more scientific market research. For example, do we know if carrots grown in the Rose Hall area have more nutritional value than the cheaper imports from Trinidad? Is the preference of the modern housewife to go to the Central Market on Saturdays to buy produce with dirt or to purchase her produce at the supermarket where the produce is cleaned and pre-packed?

The new support structures must be guided by a developmental approach, a point advanced by my friend Clive Bishop, which I personally support. This point is in no way suggesting handouts, rather it speaks to an approach based on ensuring that any fallout that will be created due to our historic decision to subdivide lands into small parcels, enhances the economic competitiveness of our farmers. The approach will be very useful in mitigating the impact to farmers who might be encouraged to shift from Banana into other crops, or to encourage young graduates from university to invest into agriculture to create employment instead of seeking employment from the Government.

New structures must allow for access to funding for programmes that will help guide the farmer/investor through

the infancy/ transition stages, procurement and marketing, money and farm management, etc.

Towards effecting these changes — a new culture and support structures — Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, and his team must move to facilitate some serious planning

sessions, to develop a plan that involves all stakeholders. Now is the time for all hands on deck, and I am moved to recite the words of my good friend Mr. Hugh Stewart: “Agriculture is everybody’s business”.

We have the capacity locally in the likes of Reuben Robertson, Clive

Bishop, Hugh Stewart, Sydney Tucker, LAP, Richard Minors, Bigger Biggs, to name a few, to make the changes. Let us see the opportunities rather than divide our efforts, to the detriment of ourselves and our future generations.

Maff

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You may be emotional if you allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature. You may find that getting together with colleagues after hours will be worthwhile. Be prepared to deal with groups and organizations of greater magnitude. Sudden changes regarding work and colleagues are apparent.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Your emotional reaction will be dependent upon your partner's responsiveness. You could have trouble persuading others to accept your ideas and opinions. Having your own business is a good idea. Trips will be enjoyable, and communication with your lover will clear up any misconceptions.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You can make favorable changes in your home environment. Don't promise to deliver the goods if you aren't positive that you can meet the deadline. Take part in stimulating debates that will allow you to show off your intelligence. Relationships will be erratic this week.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Difficulties with older females in your family may turn out to be quit trivial after all. Don't be too quick to judge.

Catch up on correspondence. Get together with friends for some competitive physical activities.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Romantic opportunities are evident if you get involved in large groups or organizations. Get involved in groups that can offer intellectual stimulation.

Don't let anyone take credit for a job you did. Travel will be favorable.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Put your thoughts into action. Onesided relationships are likely. Be discreet about your feelings, and hold back until you find out a little more

about the person who's coming on to you. Financial gains can be made.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Travel may be confusing. You may want to take a look at your direction in life.

Your personal life will be disrupted if you have been too busy with business.

Arguing won't help.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Chances are they are jealous. Stand up and propose your ideas, and you'll be surprised how many people will follow you. Overindulgence may be a problem.

You may get upset with peers or relatives.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You are able to make changes in your home that will be favorable to all involved. Your magnetic, outgoing personality will capture hearts. Join groups of a humanitarian nature.

Business and emotional partnerships will run smoothly.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can make money if you pursue your own business. Be aggressive and colorful, and you will get your way. You will be subject to pushy individuals if you get involved in uncertain organizations.

Try not to take everything so seriously.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Someone you work with may be trying to make you look bad. Get some sound advice and help setting up a workable budget. You can mesmerize anyone you meet with your cultured attitude and outlook. Look into making changes to your personal papers and don't neglect those bills that have been piling up.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You've been hurt before and could be again if you don't play hard to get. Plan to get together with someone special later in the day. It's time you let your true feelings out. Your personal situation is fluctuating.

ACROSS 1. Dingy 5. Pretty and ugly, e.g. (abbr.)

9. Broadcast watchdog agcy.

12. Screen 13. Umpire’s call 14. “Just as I thought!”

15. Pineapple brand 16. Unit of land 17. Unearth 18. Rainy mo.

20. Each 22. Pocket change 25. Grounded jets (abbr.)

26. Confusion 27. Provokes 29. “JAG” spinoff 33. Lima’s country 35. Roman 3 36. Actress Garr 37. __ even keel (2 wds.)

38. Collar spot 40. Actor Blocker 41. Terriers and spaniels 43. Uncorks 45. Clears a windshield 48. Pretty __ picture (2

wds.)

49. Before, in poems 50. Actor Neeson of “The Good Mother” 52. “Cool!”

56. Stretch the truth 57. Margin 58. Rash accompaniment 59. Quebec article 60. College head 61. Dove coop DOWN 1. __ player (VCR’s successor) 2. Vintage auto 3. Suffer poor health 4. Sheep sound 5. Remote 6. Sneezy’s friend 7. “__ Park” 8. Slumbered 9. Lose color 10. Smartly attired 11. Batting practice compartment 19. 23rd Greek letter 21. “__ She

lovely” 22. Mob VIP 23. Adam’s home 24. Mrs. Nick Charles 25. Cloud regions 28. Front seat at an arena 30. Yield 31. Mideast land 32. Religious trangresssions 34. Dismantle 39. Boxing results (abbr.)

42. Stared amorously

44. Unreasoning fear 45. Small valley 46. Cleveland’s lake 47. Doctors’ charges 48. Prayer

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

response 51. __ Khan 53. DDE’s military arena 54. Pretend 55. Common word

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 21.

Advice

Getting back my husband

granted and believed he would always be there; but now, after what I saw, that is not so.

I WALKED into my house sometime I backed out of the house and went back and discovered my husband away to cool my head, and returned having sex with a woman whom I home at a time I know he would be know very well. I heard the there alone. I told him I saw him screaming from downstairs and rushed upstairs to see what was going earlier that day making out with the woman. I told him I was not pleased on. My curiosity had me there about it. George, I was so calm about standing for a few minutes observing the goings on. My husband was like a it. He began to cry, and begged me to forgive him. I told him I saw what wild animal with this woman, and it she did to him, and I must thank her was as if he was a total stranger to me. She was doing things to him that for showing me some new tricks, and that I would be willing to do anything I had refused to do, and I saw how to keep him interested. We hugged happy he was.

George, at first I was angry that he and made new promises to each other. would do this to me, but then I felt It has been 3 weeks since that guilty for not giving him the kind of sex he deserved. I know I took him for incident, and we have been having the

Dear George,

Choosing between men and women Dear George, HOW MANY TIMES do I have to excuse my wife’s behaviour and look the other way, in order to save my marriage?

I am the laughing stock of my community, and I know it. I got married to my wife 3 years ago, and it was a rocky ride from day one. She cheated on me the very night after our wedding, with one of the ushers in the wedding. I forgave her, and we went away on our honeymoon to make things up. Two months after that, she cheated on me with her boss at work. I forgave her again, and we moved on. It was not a month after that, I found out that she had been sleeping with two of the women who were bridesmaids at our wedding. It was then I found out that my wife had always loved women but never came out in the open.

I asked her about it, and she said she does not mind sleeping with another woman, once it was alright with me. I never knew about these tendencies, and I do not know how to deal with it. I do not want to be married to a woman who has interest in her own sex. I want to stay married, but not to a woman who is not sure if she wants to be with women or men. I love my wife dearly, and divorcing her would devastate her I know; but what other options do I have?

Puzzled Dear Puzzled, You may have a strong case of deception against your wife, and that could be grounds for divorce. You may be able to claim she deliberately hid her sexual orientation from you in order to get you to marry her. That being said, you will have to work through this with your wife’s co-operation of course, to decide the way forward for the marriage.

It is always a good idea to engage the services of a marriage counsellor to help you through this ordeal. This will give your wife the opportunity to decide whether she wants to be with you wholly and solely. The marriage can only work if both of you decide to put aside the past and demonstrate a willingness to work together to deal with whatever problems that await you in the future.

George

best sex of our lives. He called the woman in front of me and told her that it was over between them.

The woman even told me she appreciated the way I dealt with her and the matter. All I wanted, George, was my husband back; and thank God it happened.

LUCKY Dear LUCKY, It is not too often stories with bad beginnings turn out with perfect endings. You expressed to your husband your areas of dissatisfaction, and at the same time discovered what

you could have been doing to reduce the reasons for him having the desire to find his pleasure elsewhere.

A dull sex life does not excuse a man for cheating, but it could lead him to entertain thoughts of doing so.

Congratulations on your approach to the situation, and for getting your husband back. The idea behind a happy marriage is to do whatever it takes to keep the other person interested and excited. Best of luck!

George

A ring of trouble Dear George, MY WIFE and I have been married for 5 years, and things have been up and down like any other marriage, I guess.

We have had our fair share of problems, but this one has taken the cake.

I have never cheated on my wife, and I found no reason of her cheating on me, until recently. I noticed that she had not been wearing her wedding band, and I never asked her about it for fear of causing a needless argument.

After two or so months, I noticed she had replaced the wedding ring with another ring.

I asked her about that one, and she said it was a gift from a friend for her birthday. I inquired of her about this friend who had given her a gift with all the appearances of an engagement ring, knowing that she is married, etc. She said I was meddling in her personal business, and dropped the matter right there and then. I asked her about her wedding band, and she simply said it got too tight for her finger. I then told her I can take it to get it stretched. She said I should not go through all that trouble since she already had a ring on her finger.

I argued with her about that ring until I almost got a heart attack. She insisted it was her decision to wear whatever ring she wanted.

George, I am not sleeping because I do not know what is going on with my wife. I asked her to let us go for counselling and she said I am the one who needs counselling, not she. I am at a stage now where I do not know what else to do. I need your help.

LOST Dear LOST, Your wife obviously has issues with the relationship/marriage, and could be at the point where she

does not wish to engage in any discussion regarding it. That could either be caused by doing so in the past and not being able to come to any reasonable resolution, or simply due to her dwindled interest in the marriage.

Whatever it is, it would not be solved by the silence that presently exists in the marriage. You need to let your wife know there is urgent need for both of you to seek professional help in an effort to save the marriage. Of course, you cannot

assume she is interested in saving it.

It is your business to inquire about the reasons she is not wearing the ring you gave her, and let her know that it was her duty to let you know that it was getting tigh so you could find a replacement. The replacement ring could be her way of also saying that you have been either replaced or about to be.

George

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 23.

Paul’s Avenue, P.O. Box 592, Kingstown Tel: 456-1821 Fax: 457-2821 E-mail: metrocint@vincysurf.com Website: www.metrocintsvg.com

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24. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Local scouts host subregional meeting

by GLORIAH… THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES BOYS SCOUT ASSOCIATION HOSTED THE INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT Meeting of Scouts Associations in the Caribbean Sub-region last weekend, Friday, 25th May to Sunday, 27th May, at the Hotel Alexandrina in Prospect.

The purpose of the meeting was to “bring managements of the Associations in line with 21st Century management procedures and practice”.

region have committed to restructure their operations as needed, with the aim of arriving at becoming more operational in the management and Leading the deliberations was Mr. Jose Gabriel Criollo, Director of Institutional Development in the expansion of scouting.

Further meetings to discuss the content of the Inter-American Region, based in Panama. He was Scout Programme, Growth and Adult Resources will assisted by Mr. Ron Richardson, Operations Executive for the Caribbean Area, based in Trinidad be held in different venues within the region in June and September of this year. and Tobago.

According to a release from the local Association, Also in attendance were Mr. Morrison Baisden, the meeting held here was a mark of recognition at President of the Executive of the Scout Association of SVG; Mr. Deak Cupid, SVG Island Commissioner; the regional level, for the quality of work being done currently to promote scouting throughout St. five officers from Vincent and the Grenadines.

Guyana, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Suriname; and other scouting officials from our local Association.

A wide range of pertinent areas was tackled. These included: Institutional Development Network and all its inherent subtopics like Governance, Operations, Institutional Relations, Financial Development, Administration, Communications, Democracy and Direction versus Management, and Policy.

Along with the development of strategic and national plans, the key leaders of Scouting in the Caribbean examined the concept of “Healthy Organization” as a desired state of organizational climate; and the development of instruments for measuring democratic practices of National Scout Associations.

Partcipants and Papers

The way forward Coming out of last weekend’s discussions, the Associations in the

Mr. Jose Gabriel Criollo, Director of Institutional Development in the Inter-American Region, based in Panama, leading a session at the meeting.

Scout Leaders from across the region gathered in SVG for an Institutional Development Meeting.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 25.

Business

KFC steps up attention to service GENERAL MANAGER of KFC (St Vincent), Mrs. Shanda Boyea has asked Managers of KFC’s three Restaurants and Pizza Hut Delivery here to recommit to provide a high quality service to every customer at every store, every time.

Mrs. Boyea made the plea at a recent one-day retreat for Senior Management Staff, and also emphasised the importance of achieving and maintaining high standards of accountability, and to focus on people capability to drive the Company in the future.

Administrative Managers, Restaurant Managers and Supervisors and their assistants paid particular attention to the delivery of world class standards in food preparation, safety and quality, and the delivery of an excellent customer service.

The Company’s Franchise Holder and Chairman, Mr. Ken Boyea, disclosed that the Company was in the process of upgrading the décor and ambience of its two older restaurants — KFC Downtown and

KFC Uptown — to ensure The Management and that customers remained Staff expressed deep satisfied. He said the appreciation to their KFC (St Vincent) would soon be implementing a new programme of training for staff, and would also be providing incentives and recognition for them.

The retreat discussed plans for the remainder of the year, among them the expansion of the menu to include dessert items, promotions to mark the 26th anniversary of the Company, and staff and customer appreciation initiatives.

Senior management staff of KFC (St. Vincent) has been emboldened after a one-day retreat.

Brewery assists school pageant THE BUCCAMENT Bay Secondary School 2012 Pageant has got a much needed injection of support.

That support has come from the St. Vincent Brewery Ltd. in the name of one of its brands, Vitamalt. The School joins the Carnival Development Corporation and a host of carnival

components who are already recipients of the Brewery’s direct support for Vincy Mas 2012.

The Ms. Buccament Bay Secondary School pageant is scheduled for tonight, June 1st, at the Buccament Bay Secondary School grounds.

L-R: Representative from the St.Vincent Brewery, Mr. Johnny Straker and Representative from the Buccament Bay Secondary School, Mr. Dennis Jardine.

customers for their support and encouragement over the

years, and promised to continue service with excellence.

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26. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Grant heads to HPC AFTER BEING SIDELINED for almost five years because of injury, national fast bowler Darnley Grant has been thrown a lifeline, as far as his cricketing career is concerned.

Grant is heading to the Sagicor High Performance Centre (HPC) in Barbados, where he will join a number of the region’s promising cricketers,including fellow Windward Islanders Andre Fletcher (Grenada) Johnson Charles and Keddy Lesporis, both of St. Lucia. He is expected to be in Barbados today June 1st.

Grant, who last represented this country in 2007 in the Windward Islands Senior Cricket tournament here, said he was “very happy” to join the HPC, which will give him the ideal opportunity to revive his cricket career.

“I am looking forward to get back to where I once was, and this will only come by hard work,” he said.

Darnley Grant takes another step in his development as a cricketer.

Dawnley Joseph, former Windward Islands Captain and proud father of Darnley Grant .

part in his development.

It was his father, Grant said, who advised that he try fast bowling after first aiming to become a wicketkeeper batsman.

believes he got the nod from the West Indies coach Otis Gibson, chairman of West Indies selector Clive Grant confessed that Butts and the West Indies being out of cricket, “a physiotherapist, following game I love,” for an his period of net sessions extended period was “very Inspiration and dreams with the West Indies team, painful emotionally.” during their three One Getting back to a level As he prepares to take Day matches against of fitness was a challenge, one step further towards Australia earlier this year, and Grant was in high achieving his dream, Grant in SVG. praise of physiotherapist said that he looks to “I am humbled and Denis Byam, who he said Delorn Johnson and Keron forever grateful to the “played a big role in my persons who would have recovery. He is responsible Cottoy, the first two Vincentians to attend the made this a reality for me,” for my being where I am HPC, for inspiration. He he expressed. today. When I felt like thinks that both players Like other young giving up, Byam have improved since cricketers in the region, repeatedly called me for attending the HPC, and he Grants dreams of one day my treatment, and playing for the West encouraged me to continue intends to follow suit.

Grant, who never Indies, and vows to with the programme.” represented the Windward continue working to fulfill Grant also credits his Islands, said he was that ambition. father, former Windward surprised to be selected for Islands Captain Dawnley I.B.A.ALLEN Joseph, for playing a vital this programme. He

Getting back to fitness

National Basketball title up for the taking THE NATIONAL LOTTERIES Right: AUTHORITY National Basketball title will be determined this Sunday Defending champions night at the New Montrose Calliaqua Basketball court, when defending champions, Carib Calliaqua United, United. and Mattafix Playaz meet in match Below: three of the final.

Ishama Mc The two most accomplished Kree (left) on teams on the island are evenly poised one match apiece, in the best the go for Carib of three playoffs.

Calliaqua Playaz won match one on United.

Saturday night by a three- point margin, 78-75, despite Ishama Mc Ree’s 36 baskets for Calliaqua.

Whatever plan Playaz might have had to take the title with a second straight victory were dashed by a determined Calliaqua.

The match was again a keenly contested encounter as reflected in another close score line, 70-68, in Calliaqua’s favour.

Lezlo Mc Kenzie was through the playoff phase without Calliaqua’s main scorer with 28 much difficulty. points.

Calliaqua, who had captured the The two finalists had come first round, made light work of

Advent Ballerz, 111- 48 in the quarter finals, and in the semi finals, registered an 80-65 triumph over Hairoun Hardcore.

Playaz on the other hand, humbled RSVG Police 75-57 and stopped Bequia All Stars 82-55, to set up their meeting with Calliaqua.

The other teams reaching the last eight were Mavrix and Cam- Park United.

Jump ball time for Sunday’s grand finale is 7 pm.

The victorious SVG contingent.

SVG reclaims OECS Squash Title THE SVG SQUASH TEAM reclaimed the OECS Team Championships trophy in emphatic fashion, as the 2012 OECS Squash Championships came to a close on Sunday May 27th, in the BVI. The squad defeated hosts BVI by a score of 8-4, to record a clean sweep of the Men’s, Women’s and Veterans team titles in the process.

The final showdown followed an 11-0 thrashing of St. Lucia the day before, with all players, Jules Snagg, Kevin Bailey, Shane Slater, Jason Doyle, Amber Glasgow, Greta Primus, Tessa Shallow-King, James Bentick, Sherian Slater, Telbert Samuel and Leroy Lewis, claiming comfortable victories.

After barely losing the OECS team championship to BVI in 2011, an improved team SVG ensured that the trophy would return to Vincy soil.

In the individual events, national champions Jules Snagg and Amber Glasgow played admirably but fell short in the Men’s and Women’s Open finals respectively.

Snagg was beaten by defending champ Joe Chapman 2/11, 1/11, 3/11, while Glasgow was defeated by former pro player Daniela Schumann 0/11, 3/11, 2/11.

SVG also took bronze in both categories following wins by Kevin Bailey and Greta Primus over St. Lucians Charlie Sonson and Monique Lovell.

There was further Vincentian success in the 40+ male and female categories, as James Bentick defeated his arch rival Sonson, 11/6, 11/4, 8/11, 11/5, while Primus defeated Lovell, 11/8, 11/9, 11/7, to claim the titles.

Following on their performances in the team event, Sherian Slater and Leroy Lewis also finished atop the Women’s 50+ and Men’s 60+ rankings respectively, capping a highly successful weekend for the SVG contingent.

As a result, Vincentians secured most of the spots on the OECS team for the upcoming Caribbean Squash Championships to be held in Trinidad in August.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 27.

Sports

Suprizers stop RSVG Police in Bagga T/20 HOME TEAM Suprizers locked away RSVG Police last Saturday at the Keartons Playing Field, to

finish top of the leader board in the National Lotteries Authority Bagga T/20 Softball Cricket

Johnson (left) and Keith Lavia finished the Alumbrera innings in fine style.

ALUMBRERA continues sweep ALUMBRERA Sweepers maintained their clean sheet as they swept aside their latest challengers, MBCL, in the latest round of matches in the Mustique T20 Cricket Competition played last weekend.

They put early pressure on the MBCL batsmen who laboured to 100 all out in their allotted 20 overs. Karel Ryan was MCBL’s high scorer with 28, and John Peters bagged 3 for 17, bowling for Alumbrera.

Alumbrera Sweepers made light work of the target and eased to 104 for the loss of 2 wickets in 15 overs. The consistent opener Cedrick Grant scored 39, and was well supported by another in form Felix Greaves, Man of batsman Keith Lavia who was not out on 28. the Match in the Pink Lavia finished the game House Tags-Toma Hawks Sweetie Pie with a massive six. clash.

Cedrick Grant was adjudged Man of the Match.

In the first of the weekend encounters, Pink House Tags may be breathing a sigh of relief after claiming victory, at last, over Toma Hawks Sweetie Pie. Pink House, batting first, scored 113 for 9 in the allotted 20 overs. Capt Felix Greaves recorded a season’s personal best of 64. Bowling for Sweetie Pie, Caswell Dorset got 4 for 13 and Rasim Brown chipped in with 3 for 14.

Sweetie Pie struggled all the way in quest of victory. But a steady loss of wickets saw their innings coming to an end at 103, at the end of 18.3 overs. Desron Lewis, 16, and Anthony Bute, 1, were the only batsmen to make some kind of meaningful contribution. Terrence Baptiste took 3 for 32 and Felix Greaves 3 for 16.

Felix Greaves for his great game performance with both bat and ball, was named Man of the Match.

Competition.

In a match not without its own drama, the winner was decided only after the use of the ‘super over’.

Suprizers got off to a sluggish start, but managed 83 for 8 from their 20 overs.

Roy Richards, better known as a national footballer, was Suprizers’ best batsman with 36.

Suprizers’ final total was also propped up by 36 extras, as the lawmen did not display much discipline in this regard.

Malcolm Alexander took 3 for 13 and Osrick James hauled in 3 for 14.

Police, albeit without several of their key players, laboured in the response, and were dismissed for 83, in 19.5 overs, the match ending in a tie.

Gerald Gould was the mainstay of the Police’s innings with 23. His demise by the run out route all but put spend to Police’s effort to overhaul their opponent’s total.

Calvert Cordice was

Surprizers, Champions of the 2012 National Lotteries Authority Bagga T/20 Softball Cricket Competition. the pick of Surprizers’ bowling, capturing 4 for 13.

The tie, in accordance with the rules of the competition, allowed for a deciding ‘super over’.

Police scored six runs from their one over.

Surprizers’ achieved the seven runs needed for the loss of one wicket, aided and abetted by another significant contribution of extras

(wides and no balls) by the lawmen.

Last Saturday’s final was a repeat of the 2010 edition, which Police won. Police were, in fact, seeking their third straight hold on the competition, but were denied by Surprizers who demonstrated a never say die attitude.

The presentation of prizes in the competition will take place at a date

Roy Richards top scored for Suprizers. and time to be announced.

Another century in Bequia T20 NATIONAL all-rounder Jomo Toney blasted his first century of the season as defending Champions, Knights Trading Aussies, secured a comfortable 42-run win over RBTT Carib Stars, in the Bequia T20 cricket championship.

The match was one in last weekend’s round of games played at the Clive Tannis playing field.

Toney stroked 109 to help his team to 281 for six in their allotted 20 overs. He was supported by another national player, Salvan Browne, who made 33, and Vernon Baptiste with 29.

Desron Lavia bagged two for 35 and Shirlan Pompey took two for 24 for RBTT Carib Stars.

Set a revised target of 219 to win, Carib Stars closed on 174 for eight in 20 overs. Desron Lavia topscored with 59 and Alrick Pompey hit 32.

Me-Shack Williams grabbed three for 24 and Umar Lavia finished with 3 for 35 for Aussies.

In another weekend encounter, Admiralty Transport Youth Combine defeated Imperial Pharmacy West Side Knockers by 78 runs. Admiralty Transport Youth Combine amassed 248 for eight in 20 overs.

Former SVG and Windward Islands pacer McNeil Morgan smashed 97, and former SVG’s batsman O’ Neil Thomas hit an unbeaten 73.Imperial Pharmacy West Side Knockers replied with 174 for five in 20 overs. Harley Skerritt topscored with 53. Garvin Ollivierre captured two for 22 for Youth Combine.

JSM Royal Challengers defeated Village Apartments Port Elizabeth by 65 runs.

JSM Royal Challengers piled up 164 for six from their 20 overs. Delroy Gregg made 32, while Captain Garfield Sargeant hit 28, and Primus Nanton added 24. Ferdie Friday claimed two for 14 and

McNeil Morgan fell just short of a century.

Alrick Pompey took two for 24. Village Apartments Port Elizabeth were dismissed for 99 in 8.3 overs. Aaron Friday topscored with 39 and Olanzo Billingy made 21. Adinol Richards captured three for 12 and Primus Nanton took two for 21 for JSM Royal Challengers.

This weekend matches pit Admiralty Transport

Jomo Toney hit 109 for the defending champions.

Youth Combine against Christ Warriors Canouan in Saturday’s lone match from 2 pm.

Then, on Sunday from 10 am, RBTT Carib Stars will play Village Apartments Port Elizabeth, and later at 2 pm, MANI-COU will oppose South Side United.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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28. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Charity begins at home PRIME MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves declared that he did not want to make headlines in sports.

He will be in the spotlight this Sunday for Chris Gayle has requested his presence when negotiations complete in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

That Chris Gayle issue has ridden the waves, and seems heading for outer space.

It seems like the WICB is not pleased that the matter has aroused interest in political circles.

Fuel for the fire continues to be thrown in generous fashion the world over. The implications of the affair are devastating, and unless the region is fully apprised of all the issues at stake, there may be uncertainty with accusations and counter accusations.

If the Prime Ministers do not have any impact on the decisions of the West Indies Board, that may open the door for repercussions.

West Indies could do without the animosity off the field which this episode exemplifies.

A rehash of the regional cricket programme has to be worked out urgently. The WICB cannot proceed in any ad hoc fashion. No administrator should be allowed to ride roughshod over Caribbean people.

The region wants to see their team play as a unit. It is that sentiment affecting persons beyond the boundary that drives fans to stay up all night, wake up early and spend their day listening or watching their team.

It is pathetic that we can’t settle differences in an amicable way.

We can’t allow the world to laugh at us; neither mock us for our intransigence.

We have lost the sense of regional pride which former stalwarts sacrificed for. It has turned out that representing the region with zest is no longer a concern. And even those in charge seem to want to hold on to a franchise that they have little role in achieving.

While the focus will be on how the dust settles on the Chris Gayle saga, there are matters at home that suggest that interest is more on seeing how many international matches we can stage.

The Clive Tannis Playing Field in Bequia surfaces with regularity in the House of Assembly.

Having that facility updated could be a valuable asset to our sporting resource.

The Cumberland Playing Field continues to be neglected, and plans for restorative work to the Pavilion at the Campden Park Playing Field do not seem to be coming to fruition.

Resolving those matters does not require an outlay of funds. Community support will support whatever finances are available.

There is inactivity in Troumaca with the Playing Field which ostensibly hastened into preparation in the build up to the last general elections. On yet another occasion, that village found itself being the politician’s ploy, and their wish to have a playing field in their district drifts further from reality.

So, while hopes that the Chris Gayle matter is settled, there are other things to attend to at home. And that includes the absence of Secondary Schools Cricket. How could a competition like that be left in the doldrums?

Bobb inspires Victors One win ALSTON BOBB had a good allround performance to help Victors One record a comfortable innings and 63 runs victory over Police One in one of two weekend matches in the NLA Premier Division national cricket competition.

Victors One batted first and declared their innings at 273 for 8, built on 91 from Alston Bobb.

Sylvan Spencer took 3 for 86.

In reply, Police One were dismissed for 93, failing to negotiate Ray Jordan with 4 for 12, Alston Bobb 2 for 25 and Norlan Williams 2 for 27. Asked to follow in the face of a 180 run deficit, the lawmen failed to force Victors One to bat again. They closed on 118, succumbing to Keiron Cottoy who took 3 for 26, Alston Bobb 3 for 28 and Norlon Williams 2 for 38.

Peter Morris topscored with 55 in Police’s second innings. It was Victors One’s first victory for the season.

In the other Premier Division

match, OLA Boutique Radcliffe won on first innings over Police Two. Police Two made 141: Gosnel Cupid hit 25, Rolando Wright 24 and Elron Lewis 23.

Andy Harper took 4 for 52 and Dyke Cato 2 for 32. In reply, OLA Boutique Radcliffe made 224.

Delorn Johnson topscored with 79 and Lindon James 62. Alex Harry took 4 for 43 and Rolando Wright 3 for 64.

Police Two, batting a second time, reached 160 for 6 when play ended. Salvan Browne hit 86 and Gosnel Cupid 42. Andy Harper took 3 for 38 and Dyke Cato 2 for 76.

First Division

In the NLA First Division, Smashers defeated Bryden’s Frutee Youth United by 18 runs.

Alston Bobb stroked 91 and had Smashers made 96. Dominique a match haul of 5 for 53.

DaSilva and Ronald Scott made 21 each. Isaac Trimingham took 6 for 42 and Keroy Roberts 3 for 16. United made 80. Anthony Charles took 4 for 38, Bishen Williams In reply, Bryden’s Frutee Youth and 3 for 12. Smashers in their second innings made 64. Isaac Trimingham took 4 for 10, to finish with match figures of 10 for 52, while Travis Cumberbatch took 3 for 1. Set to make 80 runs to win, Bryden’s Frutee Youth United reached 62. Marvin Harry took 3 for 14 and Bishen Williams 3 for 22.

Victors Two defeated Belmont United by 113 runs. Victors Two EMMANUEL NANTHAN has been made 124.

Javed Harry topscored returned as President of the with 41 and Nicholas Baptiste 24.

Windward Islands Cricket Board of Augustus Mofford 2 for 14, Javed Control (WICBC).

Cordice 2 for 24 and Adolph The Dominican was re-elected at Campbell 2 for 36. In reply, the Board’s Annual General Belmont United reached 102.

Meeting which was held at Bay Nickie Antoine hit 37. Damaul Gardens Hotel in Rodney Bay, St. Phillips took 5 for 47 and Javed Lucia, on May 25 and 26, 2012.

Harry 5 for 43. Victors Two, Nanthan will serve for two years, battng a second time, posted 203 and will have Vincentian Elson for 7 declared. Nicholas Baptiste Crick as his deputy. Crick was retop scored with 102 and Affran elected to the position of Vice Byam 42. Nickie Antoine took 4 President. for 54. Set to make 226 runs to Both men will continue to win, Belmont United were represent the WICBC as Directors dismissed for 112. Javed Cordice on the West Indies Cricket Board. made 30. Javed Harry grabbed 5 Julian Charles of St. Lucia was for 16 for a match hauil of 10 for Emmanuel Nanthan appointed the alternate Director.

59 and Damaul Phillips 4 for 44.

Windwards’ President.

In other personnel decisions Unique Warriors won on first made at the Meeting, Julian innings from Sion Hill. Unique Charles retained the post as the chairman of the senior selection Warriors made 215 for 4 declared. panel. He will have alongside him again Charles Walters and Leon Samuel made 85 and newcomer Lance John, who replaces Stanley Hinds. The Junior Lesbert Jeffrey 50. Glenroy Selection Committee is comprised of Raphael Croney, Keith Jacobs took 2 for 59. In reply, Charlery and Nixon Mc Lean.

Sion Hill made 125. Dwayne The managers and coaches of teams competing in Regional Bacchus hit 43 and Jeffrey Wyllie Competitions were also named: Lockhart Sebastien, manager, and 22. Dudley David took 4 for 5, Ian Allen, coach, of the senior team; Irvin Warrican, manager, and Joseph Medford 4 for 48 and Leon Raymond Duncan, coach, of the Under-19 team; Samuel Holder, Samuel 2 for 32. Unique Warriors manager, and Mervin Thomas, coach, of the Under-17 team; and made 73 for 8 declared in their Alton Crafto, manager, and Dwayne Gill, coach, of the Under-15 second innings. Javil Harry took 4 team. for 20 and Glenroy Jacobs 2 for Glen Ducreay of Dominica was named Honorary Secretary, 11. Set to make 163 runs to win, replacing the late Carl Glasgow.

Sion Hil reached 66 for 9 at close The first tournament to be organized by the Executive this year of play. Leon Samuel took 3 for 12 will be the Win Lotto Windward Islands 20/20, which is expected to and Dudley David 3 for 16. be held in August.

Nanthan returns as Windwards’ President

I.B.A.ALLEN

I.B.A.ALLEN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 29.

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30. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Classifieds/Tribute

A tribute to Mr Frank Odel Mason by two years, and I quickly came under his tutelage, as he was LET ME BEGIN by captain of Reeves House apologizing for the and of its cricket, football absence of my wife and and athletics teams. myself at F.O’s funeral.

After he left school, This was due to a previous F.O.’s prowess as a commitment.

I know that there have cricketer grew rapidly, and he soon became a been numerous tributes legend. I have never to F.O., as he was missed an opportunity to affectionately known sing his praise as a giant near and far, both as a among West Indian fast model citizen and a bowlers; indeed, one of legendary colossus of the all-time greats. Not cricket. But it would be remiss of me if I did not only was he a great bowler, but also a make my own batsman who contributed contribution however useful runs on every small. I claim this honour as one of his few occasion. I was present surviving contemporaries in the forties when the Trinidadian spin at the Boys’ Grammar School. He was my senior magicians, Burnette and Pouchet bundled out most of the St Vincent team for a few runs. It was F.O. who brought some respectability to the score by treating both bowlers with disdain as he lifted them

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into the boundaries from the moment he entered the crease. Then, his productive innings was cut short when umpire Sammy Neverson told him to “settle down.”

F.O. was respectful and careless enough to obey him, only to loose his wicket in this unaccustomed role.

I was present also at Arnos Vale cricket field when the great Frank Worrell was at the peak of his performance and F.O. clean bowled him for a duck in the second ball, and again had him caught for 25 in the second innings. This was after Chic Cummings had dropped him in the second innings at slips for nought.

It was reported that the great batsman locked himself in his hotel room and wept at the ignominy of this sporting cataclysm on the first

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day.

By his own account to me, his most impressive performance was in his last regional match against Dominica in 1962 at Victoria Park when he took 9 wickets for 13 runs in 13 overs, with 3 maidens.

F.O. was a legend who should have been in the record books of great world fast bowlers, for he would have gone from strength to strength with exposure at the international level. But he was robbed of this distinction and honour because of the unfairness and insularity of our West Indian people, properties that are still operative. He should have been in the West Indies team that toured England in 1957, but the illustrious Sir Garfield Sobers in his autobiography, confessed to his role and that of another great Barbadian batsman in ensuring this did not happen. It was common knowledge that cricketers from Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados and the then British Guiana had the monopoly on West Indies Team cricket.

I never ceased to extol F.O.’s prowess as a fast bowler whenever the occasion arose. I had the pleasure to be introduced to an English newspaper sports reporter who was visiting during an international match at Arnos Vale. We got around to discussing great fast bowlers, and,

of course, I mentioned with pride our legend, F.O. Mason, and bemoaned the unsavoury discrimination against him. I was amazed and delighted that this reporter agreed wholeheartedly with me, because he had been following F.O.’s cricketing career for years.

Cricket aside, what of the man, the citizen, Frank Odel Mason? Well, here again, proximity allowed me to assess the character of this gem among human beings. During the very many years of our friendship, I found him to be a man of healthy, childlike innocence and simplicity. Let me hasten to add that this description Frank O. Mason is not meant to be derogatory; rather, it reminisced about that is written in sincere comical schoolmate, appreciation and envy.

“Back Magic”, the late F.O. was humble, George Phillips. sincere, caring. He had My family and I no airs, no arrogance, no extend heartfelt pretentiousness, and sympathy to Mrs. Mason, never indulged in children and other braggadocio or chest relatives on the passing thumping, however well of this dear man. He will he performed at cricket. I be immortal as he cannot recall his ever continues to live in the losing his temper. We hearts of all those whose hardly ever met without lives he touched. convulsing in laughter at Goodbye, dear friend. some bygone story of May you rest in eternal Grammar School days, peace, quiet and love. especially as we

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 01, 2012. 31.

Classifieds

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JUNE 01, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 22

He was expected to make his debut JUNIOR MALCOLM MARSHALL is appearance at known in the Calypso arena as Victoria Park last ‘Short Man’. The reason for the night when the On sobriquet is obvious, because Tour Calypso tent Marshall is not a giant by physical was scheduled to kick appearance. off its 2012 season.

He has, however, turned out a Even without monster song, ‘Sit down and wait’, setting foot on stage, for 2012; but the number has not Marshall has been gone down well with some receiving encouraging persons. responses from the Marshall is a driver with the public. government for the past five He is grateful for years. Currently he is based at the support from his Central Medical Stores. colleagues at the He is a loyal and dedicated workplace, including Vincentian, but he finds himself his boss Levi Walker. at the receiving end of some He has also found snares as a result of his song. solidarity from Joy The number takes a cynical Sam and from his view of the operations at the fans at Rillan Hill.

Accident and Emergency Unit He is looking (AEU) of the Milton Cato forward to reaching Memorial Hospital. far this season, and Marshall, originally from the he dismisses any Central Kingstown district of suggestion that his Sharpes but now residing at entry to the calypso Rillan Hill, said that he came up classroom is belated. with the idea for the song while “Age is just a at the hospital compound earlier number,” he cites, and Malcolm ‘Short Man’ Marshall has found this year. encourages others to himself in a spot of worry as a result of his He disclosed that some nurses follow their instincts. calypso for 2012. at the AEU are “offended” by the “Don’t hold yourself song. And Marshall has been back,” he advises. long time. Persons like Francisco warned that he must pray not to “People were sitting down a ‘Sparrow’ Slinger, and Hollis come to the hospital. long time waiting for this song,” ‘Chalkdust’ Liverpool are some of He is not particularly stalled by Marshall cited. his heroes. the threat.

Marshall also praised On “We grew up with this kind of Tour’s tent leader Grantley ‘Ipa’ music,” Marshall said.

Encouraged by public support Constance for the confidence Musical arrangement for the placed in him. song was done by Joffre Venner, The song has received He is not making any and Carlos Sampson, former Band overwhelming reviews on all radio predictions, but is “leaving the Master with the Royal Police stations where it has been aired, people to judge.”

Force Band, played the and Marshall is still adjusting to Marshall confessed that he instruments for the recording. his new-found status. grew up listening to calypso for a

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Violence ruins Biabou Carnival

by KENVILLE HORNE WITH THE CARNIVAL Festivities heating up in the rural areas of SVG, the South Windward community of Biabou held their festivities on Monday, May 28th, but the activities were daunted by a number of violent incidents.

The J’Ouvert celebration was brought to an abrupt end ASP Jonathan Nichols warned following four that an activity will be stopped, stabbing incidents. Two once there are any acts of violence during the event. of the victims were taken to the Biabou Medical Centre and later discharged, with another two reported to be warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, in critical condition.

Reports also indicate that a man fell over a bridge in the Biabou area and was knocked unconscious, following one of the incidents.

At a press conference hosted by the office of the Carnival Development Corporation, on the 29th May, ASP Jonathan Nichols, Head of the RSVG Police Force Public Relations Department, said that, while the Police regretted having to stop one of the carnival activities (i.e. in Biabou), it was done so to ensure the safety of all Vincentians.

ASP Nichols assured that the Police were looking out for the safety of Vincentians, but asked that the public help in policing the activities.

If violence persists or erupts at any event, ASP Nichols warns that activities will be stopped.

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