issue May 11

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

MAY 11, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 19

www.thevincentian.com

STUDENT GETS SECOND CHANCE

by HAYDN HUGGINS

PROSECUTOR INSPECTOR Adolphus Delpleche may have saved the academic career of and ensured a future for a 16year-old secondary school student, when he withdrew two criminal charges against him on Monday, May 7.

The student, who attends a rural secondary school, appeared at the Serious Offences Court charged with possession of five grams of marijuana and having an offensive weapon, to wit, a pair of scissors.

The charges were read to the student, but before the youngster could enter a Prosecutor Inspector Adolphus Delpleche plea, the said that it was not in the public interest to prosecutor continue with the case.

informed Chief Magistrate Sonya Young that the prosecution was withdrawing both charges.

Inspector Delpleche did not give the court a reason for his decision.

However, when contacted later, Delpleche told THE VINCENTIAN that the

youngster “is a student and, should the prosecution proceed with the matter, there is a strong chance of him being convicted, based on the evidence.”

The Prosecutor explained, “My issue is, had he been convicted, he would have had to end school, and that would

EC$1.50

have been the end of his academic career.

“He might not have been able to get a job or learn a trade, because it is difficult to obtain jobs with criminal convictions.”

Continued on Page 3.

Wounded man refutes rumours

by KENVILLE HORNE MONTY JOHN, who is nursing a wound to his neck, allegedly inflicted by 2010 Green Party candidate Joseph ‘Bongo Shines’ Caine, is dispelling rumours that he interfered with Caine.

According to John, he was at his residence in Calliaqua on the morning of Thursday 3rd when a friend, by the name of ‘Cheater’, came and called.

“When me come outside, me hear a loud noise from a chain saw.”

On investigation, John said he saw ‘Shines’ using the chain saw, “so I say, ‘Shines,’ and, e say ,’Wat?’”.

At that point his

Monty John warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, welcomes the opportunity to dispel certain rumours. friend advised him to leave Caine alone. He said, however, that his friend attempted to speak to Caine concerning the noise “so early in the morning,” but Caine responded with an

outburst of obscenities.

John recalled that he and friend, ‘Cheater’, then departed his residence and headed in the direction of the main road. When

they were nearing the area where Caine was cutting, his friend indicated that he wanted to have a word with Caine.

Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 3.

News 3

Agriculture ministry continues banana revival

Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar (right) and Sylvester Vanloo at last Tuesday’s press conference.

In preparation for Operation Plant Back,

some 18,000 tissue culture (plants) have been made available for distribution, from the Tissue Culture Lab at Orange Hill.

While Caesar admits that the initial uptake of the tissues has been slow, he is confident that there would be an increase from June 1st when Operation Plant Back is officially launched.

He disclosed that his Ministry is anticipating that a total of 78 farmers, representing a holding acreage of 120.7 acres of land, will be engaged in sowing 93,600 plants during the first and second phases of the replanting period, between June 1st and August 1st .

Minister Caesar assured that consultations will continue with farmers, and took time out to

steppingstone to improving the quality of their fruit, and alluded to an understanding because it was the first shipment after a protracted break, that farmers may not have been as prepared as they should have been.

And as the Ministry of Agriculture continues its effort to revitalize the banana Industry, it was Quality scores and reported that the Credit Agricultural Input Warehouse had written Meanwhile, Sylvester off a debt of $116,000 Vanloo, Head of the incurred by WINFARM, Banana Unit/Ministry of exporters of Vincentain Agriculture, has reported bananas. that the quality of the Discussions ensue first shipment to the UK, with respect to Sunday 13 April, 2012, establishing a $100,000 was not as good as credit to WINFARM and expected. In fact, poor a $1.5 million credit scores were received.. facility for farmers.

He urged farmers to Already though, the use the result as a FairTrade Association

WE’RE BACK, AND WHILE we apologise for the two-week lapse, we

must also thank those who called to register how much they missed

the column.

And just for you loyal reads and all the new

by KENVILLE HORNE

ACCORDING TO MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE Saboto Caesar, Operation Cutback has been a success. He made the assessment during a press conference held on Tuesday, May 8, at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Room.

The Operation, which set in as a response to the Black Sigatoka disease which severely affected banana cultivation in this country, has seen cutting back operations of 332 acres, on 150 farms.

In addition, some 1197 acres on 450 fields have been sprayed.

The next phase, labeled Operation Plant Back, is expected to begin in June.

Operation Plant Back

respond to the statement that the banana industry must be returned to the farmers.

“In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the banana industry is owned by the farmers of the country,” Caesar advanced.

To date, figures show that some 361 farmers have attended the consultations held around the country in April .

readers, we are back with a bang!!

Here’s a photograph of capital Kingstown taken around 1935, or so we have been reliably informed.

We hope that it will provide an opportunity for the young to sit with the elderly and have a grand time taking a trip around Kingstown as it was then.

Not many of the buildings in the photograph stand today, but there is at least one which we will encourage those who want to make the trip, to use as a starting point.

The building at the very centre of the bottom of the picture is the Kingstown Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Have an enjoyable time finding your way around this Kingstown.

has extended a credit line of $300,000 to assist farmers.

With those offerings in the making, Minister Caesar made another appeal to farmers “to

produce the highest grade of bananas, if we want to maintain our stakes on the UK market and the regional market.”

Student gets second chance impression that they can go about using drugs and expect to be given a Discretion applied second chance every time. My advice to them Inspector Delpleche is to stay away from pointed out that in crime and drugs.” applying the public Inspector Delpleche interest test of the Code noted, however, that the for Prosecutors to the matter, it was concluded student’s name will be recorded in the court that it was not in the public interest to convict records, should he come a 16-year-old student for back on a second charge.

After the Prosecutor five grams of cannabis. had withdrawn the “As a prosecutor, one charges, the Chief has to be practical and Magistrate summoned visionary. You are not just there to ensure that the student’s mother, you get a conviction, but who was in court, to the you also have to consider witness stand.

The Magistrate what could happen to the warned the woman to convicted person, and a take control of her son 16-year-old could be and keep him on the rehabilitated; so the straight and narrow. prosecution has a Magistrate Young also discretion to give a person a second chance; gave the student a stern warning to stay away but you have to be from drugs and crime. proportionate in She told him that he exercising your should thank the discretion,” the prosecutor, and that the Prosecutor explained.

He made it clear, “I do next time he would not be so lucky. not want the public or the youths to get the

Continued from Page 1.

Wounded man refutes rumours Continued from Page 1.

John said that he advised against this, saying “Yo na see he is a bad man.”

It was at this point that he received the chop to his neck, from Caine.

He noted that he had never had any bad history with Caine. “If me do he something and he ha reason to do me that, ah woulda understand, but e chop me fo nothing at all,” an obviously distraught John told THE VINCENTIAN.” John then vehemently denied that he and Caine were engaged in an argument over politics, saying that they never engaged in any political discussion.

Caine was arrested and appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week, where he pleaded not guilty to unlawfully and maliciously wounding Monty John.

V

4. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

ChildÊs death still being investigated made a report to the police.

Police had discovered Miller’s AS INVESTIGATIONS continue into body November 4, 2011, five the disappearance and death of weeks after he had gone missing.

Dwayne Stephon Miller, a 12-yearRelatives had identified the body old first form student of the to be Miller’s.

Barrouallie Secondary School, Nine witnesses testified for the McCarthy ‘DJ’ Patterson, said to be prosecution in the attempted the subject of those investigations, murder P.I, including the virtual has been committed to stand trial complainant and Corporal Wilma in the High Court on another Black of the Major Crime Unit charge.

(MCU).

Patterson, 28, from the Central Patterson was not represented Leeward town of Layou, was on by a lawyer.

Monday committed to stand trial THE VINCENTIAN for the attempted murder of understands that up to press time Miller’s cousin Joemarro Phillips, Wednesday, the police were still 19, of Layou. At the conclusion of awaiting the results of forensic a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) which testing done abroad, in relation to had commenced at the Serious the investigations into Miller’s Offences Court on May 4, 2012, death.

Chief Magistrate Sonya Young Patterson has been remanded ruled that a prima facie case was at Her Majesty’s Prisons since he made out. initially appeared at the Serious The indictment allegedly Offences Court, November 8, on stemmed from a choking incident the attempted murder charge. at Happy Hill, Layou on In objecting to bail then Stephon Miller – his body was November 3, 2011, hours before prosecutor Inspector Adolphus found five weeks after he was Miller’s decomposed body was Delpleche stated that Phillips had reported missing. discovered in the Hunt Hole feared for his life, and Miller’s mountains in that community. disappearance and death, in The prosecutor’s grounds still Phillips had allegedly managed which Patterson is a suspect, was hold. to escape, following which he under investigations.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Kenroy Jackson is charged with murder.

Mute remanded on murder charge A 27-year-old mute of Rose Hall was remanded to Her Majestry’s Prisons last week Thursday, May 3 on a murder charge.

Kenroy Jack, a labourer, had appeared at the Serious Offences Court charged with the murder of 47-year-old Celeon King of Byera.

King died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital after being stabbed in the heart during an incident in the Bay Street area, Kingstown, around 5:30 p.m on Monday, April 30.

Jack was not required to plea when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Sonya Young.

A date is yet to be set for a Preliminary Inquiry (PI).

Jack was not represented by a lawyer.

Redemption Sharpes Lovers’ matter youths jailed for High

ONE REDEMPTION SHARPES youth will spend the next 10 years behind bars, while another will serve three years in prison for robbery and firearm possession.

Jeremy La Borde, 26 at the time, and Kimron Neverson, who was 15, were charged jointly

with robbing Troy Eustace of Redemption Sharpes, of a blackberry curve 8320 cellular phone valued at EC$750, one black azio cellular phone valued at EC$109, one black leather wallet valued at EC$35, one national ID card, one Corea’s reward card, one NCB debit card, one NCB ATM card and $2 in cash. The youngsters were also charged with possession of a firearm or imitation firearm.

La Borde was sentenced to 10 years in prison on each charge, while Neverson was jailed for three years on each charge. The sentences, handed down

by Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle on Monday, will run concurrently, in respect of both men.

The youths had pleaded guilty to both charges upon arraignment on April 24, 2012, but sentencing was

postponed.

In presenting the facts, Crown Counsel Carl Williams told the court that around 7:30 a.m. January 7, 2011, Eustace was leaving Hollywood, Redemption Sharpes, when two masked men ran towards him. One pointed a gun to his mouth and demanded, “Give me everything.”

Eustace handed over cellular phones, and the bandits took his wallet, containing the aforementioned items, from his hands. They then fled.

La Borde has a string of convictions for offences of a similar nature, while there was no record of Neverson having previous convictions.

Both men were without legal representation.

Court A BEQUIA MAN, who is accused of attempting to kill his former lover, will have his day in the High Court.

Deron Hazell, 37, of Paget Farm, was recently committed to stand trial before a judge and jury for the attempted murder of Givvon Bynoe, 23, of the same address.

He is accused of attempting to kill Bynoe on December 5, 2010.

Following a Preliminary Inquiry (PI), which had commenced at the Serious Offences Court, April 30, Chief Magistrate Sonya Young ruled that a prima facie case was made out.

Eight witnesses testified for the prosecution, including Bynoe, Dr. Zavier Danny of Bequia and investigator Sergeant Lionel Lewis.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 5.

Disaster Management

Rainbow Radio League stages field exercise Op X members involved in training in CPR.

Operating HF/SSB radio from Clare Valley

and EOCs where trained persons will respond by providing the most appropriate means of assisting the affected community(ies), among other things.

The RRL directorate in fulfilling its objective of ensuring that all persons involved with DM must be equipped with life saving skills, twinned ‘OP X’ this year with training in CPR and First Aid. Phase 1 of Op X 2012 Operation X adds First Aid (April 28) saw EFRs in training training visiting selected shelters on the eastern The field exercise, side of the island, ending called ‘Operation X (OP at Fancy where First Aid X)’, is designed to train training leading up to a radio operators as certificate was provided by emergency Red Cross trainer Mrs. communications (Emcoms) Vulon Layne/Peterson — first responders (EFR’s).

J88NEL, who is also a The field exercise gives Director of the RRL and EFRs in training ample an active ham radio opportunity to set up and operator. dismantle HF/SSB radio One week later, the equipment in quick time, EFRs in training from several designated conducted a similar emergency shelters. exercise, this time along Contact from these the western side of the shelters is maintained island, establishing and with local and regional maintaining contact with radio operators, who, in a several local and regional real situation, will relay stations, as well as among information to agencies the mobile HF/SSB IT IS A COMMON PHRASE in disaster management (DM) circles that ‘failure to plan, is to plan for failure’.

Towards ensuring that there ‘is no plan to fail’, the Rainbow Radio League Inc (RRL), spent two consecutive weekends in the field, training its members to enable them to be better prepared for the upcoming hurricane season which officially begins on June 1st.

in the area of transport.

According to De Riggs, there is need for two properly fitted land SAR mobiles, and at least three properly equipped ‘go-fast’ boats for maritime SAR, as the Coast Guard service alone cannot adequately handle mass casualty events at sea.

He also addressed the importance of having an aeronautical response capability if this country is to deliver island wide service in our multi-island state, especially when road and sea access is not Further needs and thanks possible. This will also During the final debrief position this country to respond to disasters in held at the Richmond neighbouring territories.

Campsite, Coordinator of An appeal was made for Op X 2012, Donald De the provision of uniforms Riggs, thanked all EFR’s for RL members as well as for their participation, more radio equipment to having sacrificed two be placed in other weekends to absorb this vulnerable communities. important training, Agencies or persons including communication willing to assist can skills which will be beneficial not only to SVG, contact the RRL at rainbow_radio_league@ya but to the wider region if hoo.com . and when called upon.

The RRL Director also made an appeal to corporate society to assist the RRL in delivering an even more reliable service stations. A field base camp was set up at Richmond where radio operators camped overnight. Earlier that day, all EFRs received training in CPR at the Red Cross HQ in Kingstown before taking to the road to field test their high frequency, single side band radios (HF/SSB). These radios are capable of reliably communicating from areas not accessible by VHF or UHF radios.

Op X team with Ezron Thompson (4th from left, back row).

Op X team and curious villagers at Spring Village.

Thanks was conveyed to all individuals who assisted in the training, including Mrs. Elna Michael who provided a meal for the EFR’s during Phase 1 of Op X 2012,and Mr. Ezron Thompson of Beachfront Restaurant who part-sponsored meals for Phase 2 of Op X. In recent times, the RRL has provided

communications services for road races (automobile and athletics), the recently held NBC radio fitness walk .

The RRL Inc. is a nonprofit, community service organisation with a special emphasis on emergency communications, and was founded in 1995 by Albert Browne — J88CT and Donald De Riggs — J88CD.

V

6. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

GHS celebrates 101st Anniversary THIS TIME last year, Kingstown would have been recovering from the massive march, dubbed ‘Blue and White Affair’, and celebrations of the Girls’ High School alumnae and friends to celebrate their 100th anniversary.

Having passed the 100 year milestone, the Girl’s High School celebrated their 101st anniversary on May 8th, 2012. On Monday May 7th, the school was given an early birthday present at their weekly assembly. Not only did two past Miss SVG winners pay the school a visit, but those current Ms. SVG contestants who are GHS alumnae, also passed by.

To top this off, the school received a donation of twelve fire extinguishers from St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC).

Athletes who participated in the Mustique Company National Sports Championships over the weekend were also on hand to display their medals.

Vinlec’s donation On Friday 27th January, at the

Launching of the Girls High School RBTT GHS Young Leaders accept fire extinguisher from Tamara Job-Sprott of VINLEC. Young Leaders programme 2011 - 2012, VINLEC was of every opportunity that is put before Andrea Bowman described the visit as them as students of the school. “a wonderful pre-birthday present for announced as the group’s sponsor.

Fraser encouraged that “by being our school.”

At the May 8 assembly, VINLEC Communications Officer Tamara Job- here, you are in the perfect position to The Anniversary Celebrations be excellent.”

Sprott expressed her happiness, continue The 3 Miss SVG 2012 contestants especially as an alumna of the school, to be donating the fire extinguishers to who visited the school were Shanique The 100th Anniversary celebrations the School through the Young Leaders. Browne - Ms. Lotto, Carice Glasgow will come full circle with a final lecture Ms. LIME and Aziza Williams - Ms. Young Leaders vice president Paige in the lecture series on Thursday May Jergens.

Veira took the time out to thank 10th at the Frenches House. There Coincidentally, all three girls were VINLEC for their support thus far, as will be a special 100 page collection of past students of Grimble House, and their project is coming to a close. encouraged the students to enjoy their photographs from the anniversary celebrations on sale to commemorate years at school and to take the time Royalty stops by out to focus on their school work. They this memorable event. were warmly welcomed, and Principal Past Queens LaFerne Fraser, Ms. SVG and Ms. Carival of 2002, as well as Ms. Javorne Williams, Ms. SVG 2004, were present for the assembly.

Speaking to the student body which consists of over 800 girls, both queens encouraged the students to take hold

Athletes show off their medals won in the National Sports Championship.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 7.

People

Tour guides recognised

(Front L-R): Keisha Kirby, Glenroy Gaymes, Ramona Gibson, Lywn ‘Owen’ Daniels and Gloria Williams., (Standing L-R): Mr. Vaughn of Montreal Gardens, Michele Forsythe, Noll Patterson and Garth Williams.

itself, Coreas Caribbean Adventures received two SEVEN LOCAL TOUR awards for tours of GUIDES, who have been excellent quality in plying their trade for a terms of what the tours number of years with offered and the Coreas Caribbean “exemplary service” Adventures, a department given by the guides. of Coreas Hazells Inc, The award of ‘Best were given special honour Cruise Low Volume last Tuesday, 8th May, Shore Excursion of the when they were awarded Season, 2008-2009’ went the commendation of ‘Top to the St. Vincent Tour Guides in St. Vincent Gardens Tour; while the and the Grenadines for Darkview Waterfall and 2008 – 2009’.

Coastal Cruise received the ‘Tour of the Season, Tour guides 2010-2011’ award. These tours, Shore Operations These awards, which Manager Jensen said were received in citation “directly impacted the from Ms. Lisa Jensen, passengers’ overall Manager of Shore impression of their cruise Operations of Princess vacation. They provided Cruise lines, went to: positive and memorable Ms. Gloria Williams, Ms. experience that has Cheri Sergeant and Ms. effectively showcased the Keisha Kirby for the destination.”

‘Best of St. Vincent Tour’; Mr. Glenroy Prospects Gaymes and Mr. Jason Villaroel for the ‘Gardens Mr. Garth Williams, of St. Vincent Tour’; Mr. Manager of Coreas Lywn ‘Owen’ Daniels for Shipping and Tours, the ‘Darkview Waterfall explained to the and Coastal Cruise’; and gathering that when the Mrs. Ramona Gibson for Princess Cruise Lines the ‘Gardens of St. pulled out of SVG, his Vincent and the Best of company sought to St. Vincent Tours’. discern the reason(s) for The list of awardees that action. was the result of exit Investigations, he said, surveys filled out by revealed that it was passengers at the end of neither the tours nor the their tours, and online quality of service that surveys filled out by Coreas Caribbean those who did not Adventures renders that complete the exit would have contributed surveys. to the decision.

At a short awards Managing Director ceremony held at Coreas Providence explained Hazells Inc., Mr. Joel that his company invests Providence, Managing in the training of Tour Director Coreas-Hazells Guides yearly for the Inc., reminded the delivery of a quality audience that, “Tour service. Many of these guides make the continue as tour guides, difference between a but a percentage of them moderate and an move on, many gaining excellent tour.” employment on cruise The moment of truth ships. He explained that on these tours, he went for the next cruise on to say, is when a season, the Royal Princess passenger Caribbean Cruise Lines comes into contact with — Vision of the Seas-will the tour guide and begin to make visits to realizes that the SVG. This line, he said, particular tour was the employs approximately right choice.

14,000 Vincentians and with their current Other awards employment thrust towards the Asian As a tour operator market, guides aspiring

by GLORIAH…

to be employed there will need to step up and maintain an excellent level of expertise.

V

8. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 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

International Day of the Facing the Family Challenges Modern Family

F. O. Mason remembered: A graphic note on political leadership

MAY 15 IS CELEBRATED as the International Day of the Family. It is a day when the importance of families is supposed to be highlighted.

If the truth be told, these are not easy times for families. Many professionals, commentators, even religious men and women lament the fact that the ‘social fabric of society is disintegrating, because sound families and traditional family structures are fast disappearing’.

In these times, there’s never an ‘easy’ time to be a parent, and modern day families are facing a host of unique challenges.

However, parents and parenting remain basic to the fostering of sound family structures and sound family dynamics.

It is time we admit that today’s parenting styles may just be a fundamental cause of the fragmentation in families and family life that so many quiver about.

Modern parents, whether influenced by the mass media or ‘their advanced learning’, have adopted a permissive parenting style. In a deliberate effort to discard what they perceive as an authoritarian style by their parents, modern parents go to the other extreme and purport to raise their children differently than they were raised.

However, mixed signals often set in, especially in times of stress, in moments in the modern child’s life when a modern parent is forced to admit that after all, the child’s action is unbecoming, and resort to the old (authoritarian) style, and forego their everyday permissive parenting style. What does this do to the impressionable mind of the child?

Modern parents are working longer hours, and the distinction between work and home has become blurred. Where does work stop and the home begin? How many modern parents make and adhere to this distinction?

Given what appears to be the hectic pace at which societal demands move, parents are prone to ‘helicoptering’ over their children so that they cannot make their own choices.

Further mixed signals are sent, and children left in a further quandary, possible leading to uninformed choices/decisions, when today’s parents try to promote cooperation by buying ‘things’ for their children. ‘Please them and they will bend’, may be the rationale behind the dependence on things material.

Alternatively, but still a resulting measure of sending mixed signals, is when the modern parent resorts once more, and in midstream so to speak, to that authoritative style, in an effort to reclaim control over the family dynamic. Parents become rigid, inflexible, even harsh in their interaction with their children.

There may be structure and consistency in an authoritarian household, but somewhere down the road, the child is wont to react in defiance — as that child seeks to establish his/her space.

Then again, the permissive style may well lead to the child sensing that there is room for maneuvering, if not manipulation, and quietly exert a hold over the parent.

So how does one deal with this quagmire in which parent and child find themselves, and which eventually impacts negatively on the broader society?

First and foremost, parents must submit to an honest selfappraising of their parenting style. They must work towards ensuring consistency, structure, follow-through and support, not sugar-coating the issue with more gifts and benefits, in a foolish belief that the issue will simply disappear.

Important, perhaps of paramount importance to fostering sound families and family structures is that both parents, where this presents itself, work together to achieve the same goals.

There can and should not be any mixed signals. Children must be presented with the environment in which they will know what to expect, thus avoiding creating unnecessary stress in the family.

Admittedly finding the correct balance between warmth and firmness is no easy task. But it is not impossible, and this is one sure way of making children feel cared for and safe, and leads to harmony, understanding and ease of sharing opinions in a home, in a family.

The quality of attachment a child feels for his/her family, will determine how that child, especially a teenager, functions in the world — a world that looms large with vices and virtues in constant battle for supremacy.

Children need to feel connected to a family system; it will help in building their resistance to otherwise unbecoming tendencies that will impinge on the value of sound families.

So as we mark International Family Day come next Tuesday, let us reflect on how parenting styles affect that basic web of society, the family.

(THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE was ready for the press when I heard about F.O’s death).

I applaud Patmos Richards for his article in praise of F.O Mason, a shrewd skipper and devastating pace bowler of St Vincent cricket teams in the 1950s to early 1960s .

In fact the great game to which Patmos alluded was played at Victoria Park in 1962, was Mason’s last, at the end of a sixteen-year career.

Dominica, having to make just over 100 for victory, was skittled out for far less, skipper Mason having taken 9 wickets for 11 runs.

What a way to go- into retirement!

In Dominica’s first innings school-boy Irvin Shillingford, the “Little Master,” had blazed an imperious century. He went on later to play for the West Indies, chalking up a century, I think in the second match that he played.

It is not the first time that Patmos has come up to highlight Mason’s feat which saw him called up for observation with a view to playing for the West Indies, but was unsuccessful.

Bringing the article back on the 50th anniversary of the event, when F.O is nearing 86 years old and racked with pain, I believe it was perfect timing for some honour for F.O. I certainly will second the motion! For perhaps the third time.

Incidentally, the oldest national cricketer is 95 years old Matthew John of Ratho Mill who first played in 1938, the year that I was born.

In reading the article, I noticed that I stand uncorrected on two matters. First, the Christian name of opening batsman Bramble is Eldon, not Elliot, and Garnet Brisbane is a right-handed batsman, not a left-hander. We have to show respect to our future readers! The confusion arose because Garnet bowled with his left hand.

He was the better bowler and Jackson the better batsman.

I played with or against 12 of the 13 players which formed the team in question — Marti Clark I don’t even remember. With the most elastic definition of “heroes,” only five of Patmos’ “legendary” 13 qualify in my own admittedly subjective opinion: Mason, Jackson, Niles, Brisbane, and (with a shove) Bramble.

Interestingly, Garnet Brisbane, Joseph (Speedy) Anthony, Celestine Veira, Ayrton Clouden all played for the Hairoun team as I did. I left for U.W.I Jamaica 1960. Brisbane went on to Canada around 1963 where he skippered the national team in a World Cup Series played in England.

Mason had founded his Malverns Team in the mid-50s from a nucleus of his ex-Grammar school players, much as Mike Findlay was later to do with the formation of “Saints” in the early 1960s. Both of them skippered the Windwards and Combined Islands subsequently.

The Original Malverns contained, inter alia: F.O, his lanky brother Leon, Elliot Cambridge, Vinsgath Douglas, Vin Cuffy, Hudson Soso, Hutson Martindale, Ardon “Panna” Daisley, Clifford and Maxie Daisy and Ashford Lewis.

Caspar Quammie and fellow Ear-Nose-and Throat specialist (body parts threatened by their rising deliveries) Ralph Walker.

At the period, Malverns had in effect joined a three-team loop- with K.C.C and Hairoun that fairly dominated the local cricket scene.

On the other hand, I had suggested the 1953 squad as the greatest ever put out by S.V.G. They were in batting order: Eldon Bramble, Ardon Antrobus, Cayley Bonadie, Ardon Daisley, Alfie Roberts, Ian Neverson, Frankie Thomas, Sylvester Noel, Frank Mason, and John DaSilva. Only Ardon Antrobus and

Sylvester Noel, were not out of the top drawer.

Incidentally, Patmos rightly suggested Garnet Niles as the best wicketkeeper ever, even better than Mike Findlay. There are two other contenders, Hudson Soso whom I saw for myself bring off a piece of stumping off Mason, and Bose Lewis who I am told stood up to the wicket taking with aplomb the tearaway speed of Mc. Cree, Spooner, Hadley and company in the late ‘30’s.

The best outfielder and hard-hitting batsman was said to be Cruickshank by Patmos. I met one better- Garvey Bailey of the Mount Bentick side 53/ 54. He loved to cover distances for the ball which he despatched with pin-point accuracy into the gloves of the keepers. He made a double century in a day’s play at Victoria Park vs the strongest team, K.C.C. What about naming the largest stand in the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex after Mason, Alfie Roberts and Winston Davis. I agree with those persons who see little point in honouring dead heroes, when better could be done.

Clem King is also dead. He was a man of big words, correctly used always. In early days, he lived a life on the fringe of the “Bridge Boys”.

My condolences go out to all the bereaved relatives, especially F.O’s wife KIP who had been his hand, foot and chauffeur for the past several years.

Leadership Positions In their desperate fight to retain power, the U.L.P points accusing fingers at the N.D.P for lacking depth, without even bothering to look and examine themselves.

After Gonsalves who? Is it a case of Apres` moi la deluge, there is Camillo, Saboto Caesar, Luke Browne and Michelle Fife, totally lacking experience in the broad conduct of public affairs.

Apparently, Ralph may be the victim of his own success. To pave the way for Camillo, he had all mature people moved from the Party mainstream by hook or crook: Straker, Rene` Baptiste, Girlyn Miguel. Men of some experience and learning of the ropes, like Elsworth John and Bernard Morgan were pulled back from the electoral races.

And it is well-known that the other twin evil is unelectable and could only be the bestman of the team but not the groom.

The N.D.P, on the other hand, has a settled leadership in Arnhim, followed not necessarily in order by Godwin Friday, Daniel Cummings, Linton Lewis, Major St Clair Leacock and Lennox Daisley, leaving room for the emergence of Louise Mitchell or Maia Eustace, depending on which way the winds blow.

The U.L.P cannot get away with their illogical reasoning for much longer.

For instance, Eustace should go because he lost three elections, even though he personally won his seat three times. But nothing is said of Ralph who could not win his seat on three successive occasions, and only did so when Vincent Beache transferred to South Windward, leaving Ralph a clear field after the formation of the U.L.P. Calling Arnhim weak because he took about three days to make public the dismissal Anesia from a Senate which is largely overlooked by a U.L.P Speaker. And worse, because Arnhim chose to ignore the Anesia Affair and concentrated on development issues in a subsequent press conference. Arnhim knew, like all N.D.Pites, that the Anesia Affair was being blown up as a red-herring, a decoy to distract from serious national business.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 9.

Views

Support for Mr. Caesar I WANT to congratulate the Minister of Agriculture.

If, like you like to say Mr. Editor, the truth is told, agriculture in this country is in dire need of an overhaul. There is no doubt that agriculture, which once was the mainstay of this economy, is struggling to make any real impact. Farmers’ earnings are down, and there is no question to the fact that we earn far less from bananas than we used to.

In the midst of all of this, the reports indicate that our new Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Saboto

Bethel back to school THE BETHEL High School, first located in the Victoria Park area, now located at Campden Park, was once a very dangerous place for both students and teachers.

Daily, students roamed the corridors during school sessions; fights, brawls, muggings and stabbings were the norm. Trouble was the hallmark of the Institution. Female students were simply afraid to visit the bathrooms in less than groups of six.

Every afternoon there were gang fights at the end of the school day.

The place was more like a hospital than a school.

There has been a dramatic turn around since the advent of Wendell Edwards.

Every aspect of the school has improved meteorically. Discipline has been restored, and the daily fights are nonexistent. Children now take pride in the surroundings.

A Heritage Club has been formed, and last year, 2011, the school won an Environment Programme that was sponsored by a business place. In the area of sports, the school is dominant in netball, track and field, football and cricket.

Wendell Edwards deserves all of the gratitudes for making Bethel High School a beacon in an otherwise turbulent world.

P. Stewart

Caesar, is tying his best to inject a new hope in the agriculture industry.

He is doing all he can to encourage farmers and to win their confidence.

This is the first step to recovery, and the Minister must be commended for realizing that this step is vital.

Unlike his predecessor, he is not talking down to the farmers; he gives

them their due and emphasizes how important they are to the development of this country.

This is no easy task, for I am certain that the young minister knows that old habits die hard, and it is no easy undertaking trying to convince farmers that they have to change their approach, not only to

what and how they cultivate, but how they approach their business generally.

We have to cultivate a new attitude among our farmers, and encourage more young people to farm, so that we have a sector of people who accept that they are important to our development.

This is the challenge

facing Mr. Saboto Caesar; but he seems to have got off on the right foot. He needs all the support he can get from his staff, and moreso from the Prime Minister, who is also the Minister of Finance.

Let us support Mr. Caesar in his effort.

Clifford

The leaders in the last days DID THE Hon. Arnhim Eustace provoke one of his political children to anger, according to Colossians 3:21? Or was it a demonic attack on the NDP which found the leader spiritually weak?

This, to us, who are spiritually strong and know that we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against wicked spirits in high places, have to put on every piece of God’s armory (Eph. 6:12-12).

The matter with Shefflorn Ballantyne, Anesia Baptiste and the leadership of the NDP

should have been thrown under the table if the leadership of the party had a spiritual vision for our country.

Shefflorn and Anesia are politically immature youths, and as fathers of youths, you have to avoid the wrath of the youth by not provoking them to anger.

The leader of the NDP, it appears, did not get the truth as to what the youths were accused of. He also, it is reported, did not read nor listen to the recording of what Ballantyne said.

Members of his party apparently told him that Ballantyne called the

Roman Catholic Church a cult. Anesia Baptiste tried to convince them that it was not so.

Leadership believed otherwise, and judgement was passed.

The difference between Eustace and Gonsalves in making judgement is that Eustace listens to his friends and concludes, and Gonsalves listens to himself and concludes.

That leadership is in their last days. The new leadership will be the collective wisdom of the wise and spiritual.

I MET Shanika Small on one of my trips to St Vincent a few years ago.

After tiring travel, I encountered her gracious warmth at the front desk of Grenadine House, where she was employed as a front desk attendant. Grenadine House is by no means the Ritz, but of the many hotels I have stayed at, the experience there was memorable. This was in large measure as a result of the wonderful staff at the hotel. I recall Shanika to be courteous, conscientious and engaging.

She was charming too, and spared no effort in ensuring that my stay was comfortable and indeed enjoyable. Every night before she left work, she enquired of my colleagues and me whether we were comfortable, and ensured that she provided us with all necessary information in the event we needed anything. The hospitality and patience of the staff, and especially Shanika, has remained with me since.

It should come as no surprise therefore, that I was today deeply

saddened to have learnt of Shanika’s disappearance last October. Several months have passed since her disappearance, and what appears to be her passing, but to me it is rather fresh.

I recall my colleagues and I chatting with Shanika, and she spoke of her ambitions to further her studies overseas and pursue a successful career.

Shanika spoke of wanting to study overseas, but was insistent that her plans were to return to St

Vincent to live and work.

She impressed me as a focussed and determined young lady. That her life has been cut short in what was reported to be most barbaric and brutal circumstances has been rightfully condemned widely. I too, add my condemnation. I trust that her family will have closure as every effort would be made to ensure the DNA test results are made available.

I pray too that the coward(s) who murdered her is/are brought to justice.

Shanika did not

A Christian Democrat

Remembering Shanika

* Has work on that bridge in Vermont stopped? * What has become of Montague Products? Didn’t a farmers’ organization take it over? * Is the Cricket Association going to take action against those two cricketers who had a fight on the field of play? * Who is the busiest Minister of Government, i.e. after Dr. Ralph Gonsalves? * Every year, the CDC organizes the two biggest two marathons in SVG. Is it the new National Athletics Organization or what? deserve to die in such inhumane circumstances. Hers was a warm and affable soul.

In her own small way, she was a most gracious and excellent ambassador for her country. Her murderer(s) has/have robbed St Vincent of a shining star.

May her soul rest in peace.

Imran Khan

Will we imitate Jesus Christ?

IN THE HOLY SCRIPTURES, the name of Jesus Christ is given prominence, and rightly so, since he is God’s means of salvation to humankind (Acts 4:12). However, many people tend to forget the name of Jesus’ Father, the one whose name should be hallowed, as Jesus himself said at Matthew 6:9. The word hallowed means to ‘sanctify, treat as holy; regard with great respect or reverence’.

Therefore, “Hallowed be thy name” i.e. the Father’s name, as mentioned at Matthew 6:9, means that we must treat God’s Name with the utmost respect or

reverence. This includes using God’s name, making it known to others as Jesus Christ himself did, according to John 17:6, 26.

Most people may know by now that the Father’s name is Jehovah. Exodus 6:3; Isaiah 12:2.

Hence, Jesus made God’s name, Jehovah, known, showing the deepest respect or reverence for it.

Will we be like Jesus Christ, highly regarding the name of Jesus’ Father? Jesus put the Father above himself, according to John 5:19; John 6:38 and John 7:16. Jesus loves his Father very much and will remain subject to

May Day gone through IT IS TIME that we get honest with ourselves and admit that May Day no longer has any significance for workers in this country. May Day in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is just another holiday for frolic and what have you.

Gone are the days when workers took to the streets in solidarity with one another, and in a message to the employers of this country that they are the ones who make the wheels turn.

These days, Labour Unions seem to have accepted that all is nice and dandy, and there is nothing around which to bring out their members. How sad. In doing that, they miss the whole point of the Day — a Day when workers celebrate their gains and remind those concerned that they demand only that which is fair and will fight for that.

A Worker

his Father for all eternity (1 Corinthians 15:28).

He prayed that his Father’s name be glorified (John 12:28). So we should imitate Jesus and make the Father’s name, Jehovah, known. Give God’s name the rightful prominence that it deserves, for He is the Most High, the Almighty, our Creator (Psalms 83:18). Will we imitate Jesus Christ in making God’s Name, Jehovah, known and using it respectfully?

Simeon James

V

10. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves vindicated The issue

Vincentians will remember the incident on March 28th, 2012, when the country’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Camilo Gonsalves, was accosted by a NYPD officer and briefly arrested. The full report of that incident has been in the public domain, and the details are well known to all.

Following that incident, the ULP administration embarked on a series of diplomatic activities, seeking sanctions against the NYPD officer, and to confirm the respect for St.Vincent and the Grenadines, its citizens and its diplomats.

While this strategy was evolving, the backward elements within the NDP embarked on a critical analysis of the incident, and had nothing but disparaging remarks to make about Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves. They claimed that he was arrogant, and that he should have responded differently to the NYPD officer. Some NDP spokespersons even claimed that the account of the incident as provided by Ambassador Gonsalves, was flawed.

Such was the venom that flowed from the Nasty Desperate Party.

Widespread International support The ULP administration would like to place on record, its appreciation and thanks to all those persons, including Diplomats, High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and generally to all Vincentians at home and abroad, and friends of St.Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as supporters of the Geneva Convention, for their support.

The Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Barbados, Christopher Sandrolini, telephoned Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves to offer his regret and that of his mission, in relation to the incident.

But the most important response came from the Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton. In a letter sent to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on April 26th 2012, the Secretary of State advised the Prime Minister about the proposed way forward, to ensure that incidents like these do not happen again. Let us quote from her letter.

“I regret that this incident occurred, and would like to take this opportunity to reassure you, that the United States takes its responsibilities as host country to the United Nations very seriously. US Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice, met with Ambassador Gonsalves on April 10th, to discuss the way forward. The Head of the New York City Commission for the United Nations, Consular Corps, and Protocol has informed the United States Mission to the United Nations, that it is conducting an internal review of the matter. Based on the results of their review, we will examine ways to prevent such incidents from occuring in the future”.

The letter is very instructive. It expresses regret, acknowledges that there is a problem, and outlines the action to be taken to ensure that these actions do not occur again. Unlike the re-action of the NDP, the United States recognizes that there is a relationship between that country and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, based on trust, mutual respect and an understanding that we are not better than the United States, and they are not better than us.

The vindication

Of interest to most Vincentians is a letter that appeared in the April 27th issue of the Searchlight newspaper, written by Lennox Daniel, a former Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations, during the time of the NDP. That letter has embarrassed the spokespersons for the NDP, and has vindicated the account of Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves, as he described his encounter with the NYPD officer.

Daniel says in his letter that “regularly a number of persons who conduct business in the building exit their cars at the police booth in front of the building rather than having to take the longer walk from the intersections at East 43rd street or at 42nd street to enter the building. This has been the modus operandi for accessing the building by the ambassador’s predecessor, other diplomats and other tenants of the building. On many occasions, I have done the same without receiving as much as a cursory glance from the police officer on guard in the booth”.

This puts to rest the lie that spokespersons in the NDP have been spreading on radio and face book, that Ambassador Gonsalves removed one or more of the barriers around the building, to gain access. It also confirms what the Ambassador has said, in that this is the method of access used by him, other diplomats, and in fact his predecessors, to access the building.

The incident affecting Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves will fade away as issues are resolved in New York, to ensure that this does not happen again.

But the NDP has clearly demonstrated again to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, that as a party hoping to take government in the future, it is not interested in protecting the sovereignty of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as well as its citizens.

The country is crying out for a positive opposition that is interested in participating in the national debate on socio-economic development issues. The democracy of the country requires that the NDP lift its game and present alternatives for discussion. But the country, and by extension the supporters of the New Democratic Party, are cheated when that party degenerates to the lowest common denominator. All that they are interested in, is negativity, lies, halftruths and slanderous statements.

Welcome back, Prime Minister Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves returned to the state on May 2nd, after receiving medical attention in Barbados, having curtailed his visit to Qatar. We welcome him back to his loving country, and we thank the people of Barbados, including the medical experts, for the care and attention they provided.

And so we are comforted by the resolution made by the Comrade Leader, that he will pay more attention to his health, seek more rest and reduce his work load accordingly, even while he continues to look out for the welfare of all Vincentians.

Long live the ULP and Comrade Ralph.

New Times means new government GOVERNMENT’S first responsibility is to protect its citizens by building a strong, safe community. However, under this ULP Government, violence and other criminal activities threaten to turn our beautiful country into a hostile and lawless state, in which our citizens, residents and visitors fear for their safety and security. This slide into decadence must be stopped as a matter of urgency.

The restoration of safety, national security, peace, tranquility, respect for law and order, and the building of a drug free society require a renewed sense of personal responsibility and an appropriate package of economic, social and anti-crime policies.

An NDP Government will take a firm lead on these matters to address them in a most efficacious manner.

In order to do this, the NDP, in collaboration with stakeholders and the entire nation, would seek to: implement the Spiritual, Social Redemption Charter as the prime mechanism to deal with issues pertaining to our emphasis on the prevention of crime; increase Police manpower to focus on beat and other patrols; establish a visible police presence in communities, especially those with high crime rates; reduce police response times; establish a Crime Prevention Department within the Ministry of National Security; introduce the Crime Stoppers Programme; introduce tougher sentences for sexual offenders; provide the Coast Guard with the requisite manpower and technical resources to ensure the safety of our territorial waters; supply chase and pursue vessels to empower the Coast Guard to do its job efficiently; create an Independent Fire Service with substations islandwide, inclusive of the Campden Park Industrial Estate; improve officer training; establish a specific Police Women’s Department; support Random drug testing in our prisons; provide adequate training for Prison Officers; strengthen our Forensic Lab; establish an Intelligence and Counter Intelligence Unit with special focus on our Airports and Seaports to counteract terrorism and drug trafficking; create a first response department with emphasis on responding and handling reports of Domestic Violence and Violence against Women.

competitive, so that the sector can: regain its place of prominence as a major contributor to the national economy; guarantee the food and nutrition security of our people; provide employment, income, and sustainable livelihood, while preserving the environment for present and future generations.

This can be realized by collaborating with stakeholders to developing appropriate activities which: include our marine resources, rivers and ponds as part of the agricultural sector resource base; encourage/motivate the widest cross-section of Vincentians, especially the youth, to become involved in agriculture; support the production, handling and marketing of safe, healthy foods; ensure the safety of food supplies; develop sound business systems for agricultural production, processing and marketing; ensure efficiency and international competitiveness of the sector; establish linkages between/among agriculture and the other sectors; promote sustainable rural development and the sustainable use of natural resources for present and future generations; transform the role, structure and functions of the Ministry of Agriculture to confront the new realities of globalization and modernization of the sector; endorse agricultural education programmes that will produce entrepreneurs of farmers, processors, traders, technicians and others involved with the sector; incorporate flexibility within the sector to adapt quickly to changing external Global situations.

An NDP administration will facilitate and support the private sector to tackle these objectives by instituting relevant action through the Ministry of Agriculture (Food production, Forestry, Fisheries and Rural Development). As such, the Ministry will be repositioned to meet the challenges of the 21st Century, and promote a vision of food and nutrition security, rural prosperity and improvement in the quality of life Creating real employment and livelihood of all Vincentians.

The vision will be shared, or The ULP Government has failed to advanced, through strategic planning create meaningful employment for our meetings, seminars, workshops and people. They have used and abused the field visits, in order to encourage poor for political purposes, and has partnership, cooperation and failed to lift them out of poverty. participation with key stakeholders in Towards creating long term the private sector, NGOs and civil employment for Vincentians, the NDP has set out major Development Projects, society.

Such contact will inform national which include: a major international and development plans, and construction group partnering with the priorities determine specific programmes and NDP to finally get the Argyle Airport actions. This approach will accordingly into a state of readiness; a major motivate farmers, fishermen, international development group processors, marketers, agribusiness building a 1000-unit integrated residential and hotel resort complex on entrepreneurs and technicians, to be St. Vincent; an important international more productive and gain confidence in banking group using SVG as its base to the Ministry as a tool, or facilitating mechanism, to aid their business establish a new chain of retail banks operations. throughout the Caribbean; a major The NDP will: introduce an international construction group, Agricultural Development Bank; specializing in infrastructure projects, establish a special regime of incentives establishing a regional head office in for new farms; establish a Consumer SVG; a global player in the trust and and Prices Advisory Board, with a corporate services sector overhauling our financial services; a global player in mandate to address prices for agricultural supplies as well as matters private aircraft services setting up a pertaining to prices and consumerism; state-of-the-art aircraft registry; establish farmers markets in other working with some of the world’s most experienced international tax specialists areas of St. Vincent and the Grenadines including Sion Hill, Calliaqua, to establish tax treaties that generate Georgetown, Barrouallie and Campden further investments into our country; Park; continue to make agricultural working towards each household in lands available to farmers through the SVG having a minimum of one person Land Reform Programme; designate with meaningful employment. areas for small ruminants (goat, sheep and pigs) production and some for root Rescue mission for agriculture crops to generate national food security; re-introduce agriculture in primary The mission of the NDP is to school and a youth appreciation in revitalize the agricultural sector, to agriculture (YAPA) as a programme for make it efficient, technologically young farmers. NDP AGAIN. prepared and internationally

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 11.

Views

A passion for enquiry “What we need to foster throughout the education system is a passion for enquiry, forecasting the actions of others, making decisions in the face of the unknown, finding alternative routes around or over a mountain of issues and challenges.”

Joel Providence, Chief Executive Officer, Coreas Hazells Inc., St. Vincent IT IS SOMETIMES AMAZING to listen to the conversations of those young persons who have not yet been reprogrammed to think that it is futile to pursue their dreams; individuals whose vivid imagination encourage them to think outside the box and to dream of possibilities not yet pursued; persons who possess and display a passion for enquiry.

Over the years, many regional researchers have explored the various sub-cultures in the Caribbean, and provided explanations for why several segments of our Caribbean people tend to have a general aversion to starting and/or sustaining new businesses. Professor Selwyn Ryan and Dr. Taimoon Stewart, for example, examined the various ethnic groups in the Caribbean and provided empirical evidence of the attitudes, systems and structures that either enable or retard business processes.

Their 1994 publication “Entrepreneurship in the Caribbean: culture, structure, conjuncture,” makes good reading for those individuals who may wish to further explore their findings. In addition, the Journal of East Caribbean Studies, from time to time features research work from many of our more accomplished regional and international researchers who look at the challenges that we face, and highlight the need for our people to develop and sustain a passion for enquiry.

Children have a natural tendency to enquire and explore.

Unfortunately, it appears as though so many adults, who have an aversion for taking risks, seek to reprogramme these fertile minds and, over time, dampen their natural tendency for adventure. We can well imagine the number of discoveries that we could make in the field of science and the arts if we assist them in challenging themselves to discover new formulae or products. For example, is it possible for our students in agricultural science to formulate an organic fertilizer that uses a combination of rabbit manure, goat dung, donkey dung, and seaweed? Or consider the possibilities of developing an “organic insect repellent” by encouraging children to consider a mixture of Neem leaves (plant species of the Azadirachta Indica) and “pepper bush” (the leaves of the hot pepper plant). Or imagine the possible commercial value of extracting a wax from the leaves of the dasheen plant that can then be used as a polish for automobiles. While these may seem to be “far-fetched” ideas, we pause to reflect on the fact that many discoveries started their journey to

popularity and economic success, having passed through gates of doubt and scepticism. Let us encourage our children to try. Let us encourage our children to revisit some of the “oldtime treatments” that were handed down by our ancestors, and see if we cannot discover modern medicines, pesticides ... new discoveries from old ideas. Reflect on the fact that this is how many of our modern pharmaceuticals were created; individuals examining the remedies of indigenous peoples in “distant forests” that now save the lives or relieve pains of persons all over the world.

Yes, It is possible for one of our children to discover a new product that will add value to their community and, by extension, the world. But it becomes more probable when we, you and I, encourage them to develop a passion for enquiry. It is possible that, as we encourage them to develop and sustain a passion for probing and analysis, they will come up with new ideas in relation to various aspects of renewable energy.

Such discoveries are not the purview of persons who were born in developed countries; world-changing discoveries can emerge from persons who were born or grew up in developing countries like ours. One outstanding example that readily jumps out at me is Winston “Spree” Simon’s invention of the steel pan in the late 1940s; he grew up in an impoverished part of Trinidad, but had a passion for percussion instruments and ... invented a musical instrument that mesmerizes listeners all over the world. It is possible to invent great things if we harness the passion for enquiry.

We need to encourage the spirit of enquiry in our homes, schools and communities at large. We have the capacity for invention. We have the ability to innovate. We can generate and develop ideas. We are “wired” for these ... but we need to go that extra step and move in the direction of implementation — taking calculated risks as we pursue these new ideas, dreams, and visions. What new inventions are lurking in the minds of our children just awaiting our encouragement for them to be unearthed? What ideas do we, you and I, have that we shelved in the recesses of our minds that now beg to be pursued? What differences can these make to the world as we know it? Let us accept the challenge to develop and sustain a passion for enquiry, fostering the actions of others and venturing beyond the horizons of our minds, to discover new lands (so to speak) in science, agriculture, music, information technology, and the arts ... as we kindle a passion for enquiry.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

Death dancing at the top DEATH DANCING at the top, It must be like waking up in the wrong life every day. So many of our brightest and best, led up the path to power, only to discover the numbing powerlessness up there where the air was expected to be so delightfully rare.

The political class is not the only one so afflicted. Right across the leadership class of this country, from corporation to co-operative, the phenomenon of impotence cuts a broad swath, reducing leadership to either the fine art of buck-passing or crass authoritarianism. Either way, when you look into it, you see the face of impotence, recognisable by the eyes that don’t listen.

In the corridors of power, the only significant difference between the public and private sectors is that one is open to continuous public scrutiny while the other is exercised behind closed doors. Outside, amid the heap of youthful dreams abandoned at the door, are the wayward children of a culture suffocated by its inability to find its confidence: arbitrary decision-making; mass alienation and lack of accountability.

In the absence of research into the practices and culture of the Caribbean leadership class, we have Commissions of Enquiry to give us a premium view of life at the top. And what a spectacle of contradictions they provide!

Certification without knowledge; power without responsibility; policy without purpose; impotence in action.

Dismissed as old talk and a waste of money, Commissions of Enquiry, with their power, flexibility, and freedom from the mandate to punish, offer a rare but safe space for truth to dare show its face, and a valuable showcase for putting the leadership class on public view. Invariably, what is on parade is of such comprehensive complicity, whether by commission or omission, that we are minded to either lock up everybody or let off everybody.

Among the spectating masses, this view reinforces the long-held suspicion that our leaders are lost, that at the top of the society, hope is dying and death is dancing, and that the investment made in equipping our own to take the reins of power in every sphere of the land, is yielding precious little return.

Once upon a time, we walked behind them with the confidence of certainty about the future. In Joshua, Cato, Mitchell, Gonsalves and other leaders of their generation, we believed that all that was required was the brain to power ourselves to a new dawn. In twotwos, the innocence of that confidence was smashed as we came up against the limitations of mere men and their brains. The eruption of Black Power in 1970 is significant as the marker of that breakdown of confidence between the people and the Independence leadership.

Today, caught in the chasm between the broken past and the unformed future, the society struggles in the formlessness of the present where the only certainty is uncertainty. Our search for leadership out of this limbo land is coming up empty everywhere. In politics, in business, in academia, in the church, the media, the law, the unions, the arts, the professions–we fear we see no leaders to guide the way, no one to trust and nothing to rely on.

Unprotected and exposed, we conclude that in this No Man’s Land, it will have to be every man and woman

for themselves. Quickly, we make the adjustment and lower our expectations, abandoning our cherished dream of releasing our awesome power to rock our world and catapult us into that bright new dawn. Instead, we lower our gaze and make do with the power of the lesser gods of money, title and connections.

This culture of cynicism pervades public life, as one generation after another abandons hope and settles for the things that money can buy. Now full-blown and at the height of its powers, the cynical generation is large and in charge, its ethos walking the corridors of power across the land, destroying the spirit and wounding the hearts of those still able to dream.

This has been the real disaster of our politics where our failure to weld a society out of the fragments of history, has succeeded only in deepening the historical culture of impotence. The tragedy is that so much of it may have begun with the purest of motives and the best of intentions, only to be tripped up by their unwillingness to confront the culture, opting instead to sleep with the devil as a strategy for change.

The political leaders that we so rail against, from one administration to another, are indeed the true representatives of this culture which stand for the lowest expressions of success. But no child is born cynical, which is why hope is always eternal and why the youth are always on the frontline of every revolution.

The restlessness permeating current public discourse is an indicator of limits being reached. In response, the government has embarked on a strategy of pacification, with the entire operation being thrown into survival mode. Ever alert to the examples of the ole labour and the NDP administrations, within the {Gonsalves} government, everything is negotiable in protecting the one nonnegotiable item on the agenda: survival.

This, ultimately, is the source of the government’s weakness: Its rivals know its price. Whether it is made to pay today, or tomorrow, it is a threat that will hang over its head until it either shakes it off, collapses or negotiates a lasting peace. Given the prevailing climate of distrust, all three options are likely to be in play at once, adding to the general confusion in public life. The main casualty will continue to be the integrity of information in a country where the information pool has been so polluted by every interest that it is now a poisoned chalice from which none is safe.

Meanwhile, in places where people still dream, another life goes on, insulated from the pain of the present by an obsession with a more distant future. In those places in communities throughout {our land}, they are planting seeds of hope, building self-knowledge, deepening self-confidence and releasing human potential, and this is the most revolutionary act of all.

This profoundly moving column was written by Sunity Maharaj and published in the May 5, 2012 issue of the Trinidad Express. All references to Trinidad and Tobago were replaced with local ones.

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

V

12. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Reliance on Taiwan and Venezuela is destroying SVG The SVG economy can only grow by educating our people and implementing an export strategy of manufacture and agro-processed goods. It is a gross economic delusion for the incompetent Gonsalves regime to believe that tourism can provide growth in SVG. We need a university, factories and a vibrant agriculture industry as the engine of the SVG economy, not tourism.

Taiwan and Venezuela are the major promoters of gross economic delusion in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Taiwan and Venezuela’s presence in SVG is not the catalyst that some purport it to be. This can become a social timebomb in SVG, because money is scarce and food is expensive. Policy makers should be mindful of this serious situation, in which SVG’s economy is tumbling into disrepair and hopelessness by the day.

Taiwan is creaming off hundreds of millions of dollars annually on SVG’s international deep sea fish licence. Taiwan has been in SVG for over 30

is becoming more widespread. Many poor households are struggling to provide for their families, many poor children are missing out on schooling, and in rural areas the economy is dead.

We need a serious change in SVG to bring prosperity to the people. Under a Green Government, priority will be to cut ties with Taiwan and Venezuela, to stop the blood sucking. The economy needs to go Green to allow sustainable development, create thousands of new jobs and revenue for the SVG treasury.

SVG Green Party is seriously concerned about the high unemployment rate, some say over 30 per cent, and the substantial under achieving in education by males. If not rectified, this will threaten the stability of SVG. The reliance upon Taiwan and Venezuela is backward thinking by the Gonsalves regime.

To overcome this very serious problem, SVG Green Party calls for rapid investment and growth in human resource development and technology training to educate our children, so that the hundreds of youths leaving school each year can gain prosperity and be usefully occupied in meaningful employment.

We do not need the presence of Taiwan or Venezuela for this new strategy.

years and is a world leader in manufacturing.

However, they have not bothered to build one factory in SVG. If Taiwan was a true friend of SVG, Taiwan would have built a fish canning plant and factories for our country. Taiwan is just sucking the blood out of our country.

Venezuela’s Petro-Caribe agreement with SVG is destroying our children’s future. Under this agreement, Gonsalves is buying oil now and leaving the bill to be paid in 20 years’ time. This is foolish and speaks to inefficiency and ‘dotishness’ in Gonsalves’ regime. Gonsalves is not taking responsibility for his financial and economic expenditure.

Taiwan and Venezuela are serious obstacles to sustainable development in our country. They are wrongfully and continually propping-up the highly incompetent Gonsalves regime. There is nothing to celebrate with our links with Taiwan or Venezuela.

One needs only look around the county to see how SVG Green Party bad the economy is doing, and how poverty in SVG www.svggreenparty.org

Jochebed Resource Center for men and boys International Day of the Family: ‘Ensuring work and family balance’ THE UNITED NATIONS has designated May 15th as the International Day of the Family. It is an occasion to focus on the responsibilities and challenges facing today’s family. This year’s theme is, ‘Ensuring Work and Family Balance’.

It is true to say that there are multiple family structures, not only the nuclear family of mother, father and children, but households headed by single mothers and fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings and sometimes neighbors who ‘take in” a child.

The changes in family structure are due in part to migration incresses, in divorce rates and death from natural causes or diseases such as cancer, high blood pressure and

HIV and AIDS. In searching for the root cause for the increase in crime and violence, much of the blame is laid on the shoulders of women who have joined the work force beyond the home, and families where both parents work outside the home.

However, there are also poor family relations and violence in the households where the mother only works within the home, and the father’s income is sufficient to maintain the family. The search for root causes of violence must continue into an examination of social, economic, political and gender values, and therefore, violence cannot be solved by law enforcement measures

only.

Recent events at home and abroad point to this need, and raise the following questions, among others: Why has the home become such a hostile and unsafe environment, where many crimes are committed either by intimate partners or by relatives? Why will a man abuse his wife in front of her son, and place him in the hands of the police when he tries to defend his mother?

Further, why will the mother refuse to testify against her abuser, thereby leading her son to feel obligated to intervene, and end up on the wrong side of the law? What family support was lacking that person(s) not only thought of suicide as the

only way out of their troubles, but fulfilled that thought? What supports are lacking for the parents and relatives of victims and perpetrators of violence?

Is Mother’s Day or Father’s Day happy occasions for them with missing family members?

On this International Day of the Family, the Jochebed Resource Center for Men and Boys encourages family members everywhere to take a closer look at their work place and work responsibilities. As workers, are they part of trade unions to negotiate working conditions in relation to family responsibilities?

Families are also encouraged to take a closer walk with each other affirming, love,

respect, solidarity and committing to face the joys and challenges in life as a strong unit.

of Action for Gender Equality, where it is recognized that Men and Boys are key partners in achieving gender equality. With emerging Nelcia Robinson-Hazell gaps affecting men, it is Director critical to engage actively Jochebed Resource Center for Men and Boys with institutions and parties that work with men and young people on Editor’s Note: The the gender equality Jochebed Resource issues.

Center for Men and Boys ‘Jochebed, the mother is the brainchild of of Moses, saw that he Nelcia Robinson-Hazell, was a goodly child and Community Educator.

It is both a response to hid him from the wrath of Pharaoh, who had the crisis of crime and made a decree that all violence in the society the male babies of the affecting men and boys, women and girls, and to Hebrew families should the Commonwealth Plan be put to death.’

V Tommy T goes to the Yonder World

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11 , 2012. 13.

Diaspora

ON SUNDAY, May 6, 67year-old Ephraim Thompson, known in the calypso/soca arena as ‘Tommy T’, succumbed to cancer of the throat.

He hailed from the Windward village of Cedars and emigrated to the New York during the early 1970s, after serving in the police force.

It seemed almost impossible for Tommy T’s friends to just reflect on his life without pondering on the camaraderie that existed among them during the 1980s and 90s. These vivid memories are even more amazing, considering that Tommy

T had changed his life when he became a bornagain Christian some time ago.

The sentiments of Ferrand ‘Randy D’ Dopwell, Gary Palmer, Lennox ‘Ziggy’ John and Oscar James describe the nature of Tommy T: “He had a warm personality … he was approachable … a very decent guy …. humorous … he was amicable and a fun person to be with. ” His sense of loyalty to those close to him was also expressed by Oscar James, “If you have a friend in Tommy T, you know you have a friend in your corner.”

These thoughts are also reflective of the closeness there was between him and Walter Porter and which everyone talks about.

Walter perished in the 1988 bombing of the Pan Am plane over Lockerbie, Scotland (Fortuitously, Tommy T who had gone to England with him to perform, stayed behind for a few more days).

His mother Gertrude Thompson expresses eternal gratitude when she said, “Is he who put me in this shelter here, and every day I say, “Thank you Jesus for Ephraim Thompson.”

A comrade in the cause the All Stars

The magnitude of the friendship that existed among those soca/calypso icons when Tommy T was involved was best articulated by Randy D on his FB page: “Got a call from Oscar James a few hours ago to inform me of the passing of Tommy T....Walter Porter...Dan Simon...Darwin David...and Annice Carew all came to mind ...It’s like they were construction workers who died while constructing this building called Carnival..

Before Soca Monarch,

Show featured the foreign based Vincentian Artistes.... All the names above and more, who were also a part of an organisation that represented them..

SVGEGNA.. R I P...Tommy.”

Randy D was referring to the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Entertainers Guild of North America (SVGEGNA). This organization, which was widely known as EGNA, was the brainchild of Walter Porter. The purpose was to raise the profile of Vincentian entertainers and to protect them from exploitation.

The link between these entertainers and SVG was channeled through the ‘All Stars Show’ which was organized by record producer and promoter Granville Straker Tommy T was also an active EGNA member and will be remembered for his rendition ‘Tabanka’ which was his biggest hit. As a result he became known across the Caribbean region and its Diaspora.

had given up his life as a calypsonian to become a committed born-again Christian. He worshipped as a Spiritual Baptist and had “switched to producing Gospel music” (Incidentally, his friend Walter Porter was a known Spiritual Baptist).

He was a retired hospital security staff and moonlighted as a cab driver. During retirement, he worked as a gas station manager and was a real property investor.

How prophetic Tommy T’s passing should bring about a discussion about the “construction workers” of the Vincy carnival on the night of its 2012 launch? As we reflect on the life of Tommy T and the cultural foundation he helped build in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and its Diaspora, mention must be made also of the The ‘Do Gooder’ and the transitioning of another two outstanding change musicians: Affetuosos founding bass player Despite Tommy T’s friendly disposition and Ralph ‘Nassan’ Brown and Gerald ‘Rasum’ celebrity status, there Shallow. Less well were various aspects of his life that were not so known in the circuit was Michael ‘Ice man’ well known. For example, one of his close Baisden.

Ephraim ‘Tommy T’ friends, Curtis ‘Willie D’ Thompson will be laid to Williams, recollected: rest in New York on “You had to know to Saturday 12, 2012 after know that Tommy T used to cook pots of food viewing and funeral service at Freedom Hall to feed the poor at the Pentecostal Church.

Bowery, East May his memories Manhattan. He never spoke about this; I only inspire another generation of committed knew because I used to “construction workers” in live near him and my the cultural industry of aunt would help him Saint Vincent and the with the pots.”

Grenadines.

Tommy T has left to mourn his mother, 5 Luzette King siblings and his three Producer and Host, daughters. Years Global Highlights before his passing, he globalhighlights@gmail.

14. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 15.

16. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 17.

V

18. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

Red Cross observes anniversary The St Vincent and the Grenadines Red Cross Society is holding a month of activities to observe the 63rd anniversary of the organization.

The activities commenced last Sunday, May 6th with a church service at the Faith Temple Church at New Montrose. On Tuesday 8th May, the local Society joined Red Cross Societies around the world in celebrating World Red Cross Day — the birthday of the founding father, Jean Henri Dunant.

The local Society, in conjunction with the

Ministry of Health, Bernard Morgan – president (centre), Bernard Marksman – Director General celebrated the day with and DIPECHO 8 Project Coordinator (right); Leroy Jack – Youth Officer (2nd an exhibition at the from left); Nazina Mc Lean – World Red Cross Day Deputy Coordinator (2nd headquarters and a from right); Mikey Irish – volunteer (left). Missing from the photo is Julia display booth under the Simmons – Finance Administrator.

Ministerial Building. displaying Red Cross The exhibition involved demonstrations of CPR, display of emergency kits and supplies, educational projects around the world, and a registration materials such as disaster preparedness manuals, booth for new volunteers.

AIDS awareness t-shirts, an international booth

Working in the community At a media briefing last week Monday, president of the local Red Cross, Bernard Morgan said that May 10th, 11th, 23rd and 24th were scheduled for first aid and CPR training programmes. He said that the training programmes will target firms and other establishments where there are occupational risks..

May 14th and 21st will be given over to holding a Red Cross Volunteer at disaster preparedness one of the Exhibition seminar to include the booths. disaster management committee and Red Cross management. The seminar will look at, among other areas, shelter management and damage assessment.

Morgan said that there are Community Disaster Response Teams which are being trained in disaster management, and NEMO no longer has to go into communities to train persons. He said the CDRTs are responsible for identifying hazards in communities, and that each community will have a disaster plan, and will be provided with CDRT bins which will have chain saws, shovels and other tools and supplies. The CDRT work in accordance with the government’s national disaster plan.

“We are not operating outside the national disaster plan”, he said.

Always ready Director General of the local Red Cross and DIPECHO 8 Project Coordinator, Bernard Marksman, noted that the activities are taking place just before the official start of the June 1st hurricane season, and will form part of the hurricane preparedness sensitization programme.

Marksman assured that locally there are prepositioned stocks which can be used to assist 200 families (approximately 1,000 persons) for one week, in the event of a disaster. These are considered as first response supplies, as back-up supplies would be flown in if there is a major disaster. Items in stock are plastics, blankets, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, water cans and 2 large water tanks which can be mounted on trucks for distribution to communities.

The month of activities will climax with an exhibition competition on May 31st and whistle stops to sensitize communities about disaster and to get feedback from the communities.

Meanwhile, exhibitions are being held at schools to expose the youth to the Red Cross Society and to attract membership. Over 110 persons were enrolled in communities last year and 60 at the Anglican School. On May 10th, some 40 volunteers were expected to be enrolled at the West St George Secondary School, and later 140 persons will be enrolled in Mesopotamia.

Membership of the local Red Cross Society is given as 2,500 persons, some more active than others.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 19.

News

Cecile: ÂFresh bread from the ovenÊ

by SHERON GARRAWAY

AT THE LAUNCHING OF HER EXHIBITION on Monday 7 May, 2012 at the Alliance Francaise, artist Cecile Comblen described her pieces as “fresh bread from the oven.”

Comblen said her exhibition features work that has recently come out of her studio and the pieces depict inspirations from her life and relationships.

She noted that the work spoke not in an intellectual manner but with intimacy.

The European born, who also resided in Canada where she studied Fine Arts at the University of Ottawa, said that the atmosphere and colours on the island of St Vincent and the Grenadines, where she now resides, tell her of personal memories.

Comblen said that she used this imagery because “art was what the soul of humans feed on when they experience life and its emotions.”

Left: Cecile Comblen standing next to one of her pieces called ‘Fragments of Life’.

Visitors to the exhibition take in the formalities of a brief opening ceremony.

She expounded, “We don’t just want to be happy to live with the basics and the everyday life but we need something that pushes us higher. When you share with people, even personal things from your life, you give them something and they see a mirror and they might start to recognize themselves. So in a way it is something to help you grow…something that nourishes and feeds you.”

She emphasied that it was important for people to express themselves, since they have been doing so since the beginning of time with hands and animal prints in caves.

At the cheese and wine affair that added to the ambiance of the occasion,

Comblen reinforced that having the passion and natural ability for art should be backed with some formal training, and she encouraged artists to develop themselves so that they can become more enriching.

Meanwhile, Head ofFrench Alliance Francaise, Vanessa Demircivan, expressed thanks to Comblen for sharing her artistic talents, and urged persons to view the exhibition which would be on display well into the month. until later this month.

Demircivan also noted that the Alliance Francaise was where artists could display their work free of cost, and encouraged others to share their creativity.

20. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 21.

V

22. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

LYNX mas band returns

longer involvement.

With designs by Oswald ‘Ossie’ Constance, Lynx’s THE LYNX MAS BAND MADE ITS DEBUT IN VINCY MAS 2012 presentation, ‘Aztec Civilization’, will offer a IN 2005, with a presentation entitled, ‘The Books We final choice from among eight sections, namely: Love’ Young Warrior, Maiden, Hunter, Sun Worshipper, Since then, with the exception of a hiatus in 2011, the Eagle Warrior, Musician, Caretaker and band has presented full costumed band presentations Montezuma. and competed in all the major mas competitions of Bernard ‘Yank’ Bowne, who will serve as the Vincy Mas. band’s deputy leader, anticipates “the regular high Lynx returns in 2012, emboldened by the standard from Lynx.” injections of some experienced mas makers, not He assured those who would have played with least among these being Adonis ‘Goat’ Hector and Lynx in previous years that the same level of care Bernard ‘Yank’ Browne, noted for their winning and detail, “perhaps even more,” will be paid to the ways during a long association with the Nelson Bloc building and decoration of the costumes.

Mas Band. ‘Yank’ actually boasts an involvement in Masqueraders, whether they are returning to the mas that dates back to 1977, with ‘Goat’ an even fold or first timers, “are guaranteed a competitive

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

presentation and lots of enjoyment,” said Browne, who urged potential masqueraders to register as early as possible. He promised that a regular work force will be available at the mas tent “to take care of all matters.”

The Lynx mas band headquarters (mas tent) is located at Lower Back Street, next to the Dragons Cultural Organization.

Costumes are priced at a maximum of $280.00 for adults and $130.00 for children.

And if getting to the tent proves difficult, persons can contact ‘Yank’ at 491-1951, Cornelius ‘Pete’ Thomas at 495-0004 or Simeon Cambridge at 4320904.

Eagle Warrior

Young Warrior

Hunter

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11 , 2012. 23.

Training

Seven graduate from parenting training

Graduates of the St. Mary Buccament Parenting Programme with Programme Cordinator- Mrs. Lois Friday (right).

participatory learning to develop their parenting AN ADDITIONAL seven per- with chief celebrant and skills, build relationships sons from the Anglican preacher at the Holy and contribute to the Parish of St. James, Layou Eucharist, The Very stability of family life in and St. Mary, Buccament, Rev’d Ulric Smith. society. This mirrors the have followed in the footTo date, a total of five objects or core values steps of six women and such programmes have which are at the heart of two men from St. Paul, been completed the the Mothers’ Union, Calliaqua, and are now initial training, and over namely to: uphold better equipped with parthe next few weeks, Christ’s’ teaching on the enting skills. there will be other nature of marriage, and The seven recently graduation exercises by to promote its wider graduated at a ceremony two parenting groups understanding; held at the St. Mary from Kingstown and encourage parents to Anglican Church, Sandy Bay. bring up their children in Buccament on Sunday Persons have been the faith and life of the April 30th at 9:00 am, equipped through

Church; maintain a worldwide fellowship of Christians united in prayer, worship and service; promote conditions in society favourable to stable family life and the protection of children; and help those whose family life has met with adversity.

Mothers’ Union parenting groups provide an opportunity for grandparents, parents and caregivers alike to meet in a supportive environment, share issues and challenges, and benefit from participatory learning.

The objectives of the programme are to: establish community support networks of teams to encourage parents in their role; empower parents to respond to the process of growth and development of their children; support families and communities to respond positively to the social challenges of parenting.

Participants continue to express the positive impact of the Parenting Programme on their lives and relationships with children, relatives and others. Through networking, participants

have also benefited from tangible support.

The second leg of the programme is due to begin in late May, and persons are encouraged to be part of the programme or invite persons in their communities to do so.

Application forms will be available from the facilitators.

The programme is open to all parents, grandparents and caregivers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Persons seeking additional information can telephone 495-7827 or 457-1942. (Contributed)

Some of the participants at the Men’s Conference.

ACED holds Men’s Conference THE Barrouallie-Taiwan Learning Resource Centre, in the town of Barrouallie, was the venue on Thursday 3rd May, for a Men’s Conference, organized by Zone 7 of the Adult and Continuing Education Division (ACED).

The Conference focused on ‘Dealing with the way of the evolutionary man,’ and involved men from Buccament, Layou, Barrouallie and Keartons, the communities that comprise Zone 7.

Participants heard presentations from Zonal Co-ordinator Mrs. Rosmond Layne—Lorraine and feature presenter, Mr. Monty Maule.

Mr. Maule challenged the men to be recruiters of more males as good role models, positive thinkers, leaders, good parents, responsible individuals, ambitious in nature,

knowledgeable of self and their environs, and above all, followers of the teaching of Christ.

Participants themselves were involved in exercises related to the roles they play and should play in society.

The Men’s Conference is in response to the need to highlight the role of men in society, which is becoming a diminishing feature, some say non-existent, in Vincentain life.

Support for the Conference came from the Buccament Bay Resort, Oasis and Randy’s Supermarket.

Upcoming training programmes and workshops for men in Zone 7 include arc welding, seamanship, composting, furniture construction, computer repairs and Information Technology.

V Are politicians our servants or our masters?

24. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

FOLLOWING the recent insensitive actions of our opposition politicians against their own colleague, I am moved to reflect on whether our politicians, government side and opposition, see themselves as being accountable to the people.

Are our politicians honest enough to ask themselves whether they are our masters, or servants?

It is one thing for the government politicians to be arrogant; but downright foolhardy, selfish and, in the end,

politically detrimental for the opposition politicians to follow suit.

The struggle for people’s right to “change” and their own electability must be their focus.

Hypocrisy

Interestingly enough, I our politicians talking about good governance, rule of law, integrity and accountability, zero tolerance of corruption and dictatorship, and putting an end to victimization etc. Yet, some of them are accused

We need more trade union education in SVG progressive labour movement to provide critical support to a government’s policies, adopt a cooperative approach instead of a militant one, and craft out plans that would redound to the social and economic benefits of workers.

In light of a cross section of the public’s negative perception of the trade union movement here, it is an imperative that the latter assume the responsibility of redefining its authentic roles by bringing relevant information and education to the citizenry.

consolidating on the foundations laid by their predecessors. Some LAST TUESDAY, May 1st, was of these vanguards and internationally observed as champions of the Vincentian Labour Day. It was an occasion working class included Cyril where workers the world over, Roberts, Joseph ‘Burns’ Bonadie, came together as a collective to Lloyd Small, Tyrone Smith, Alice share their experience, struggles Mandeville, Cynthia Matthews and triumphs and, of course, from the Commercial Technical their determination in the and Allied Workers Movement;, pursuit of one common cause — Brinsley Nickie and Duff James, solidarity and brotherhood. both of whom organized labour The National Labour Congress unions; Mike Browne, Joy here, which speaks for the trade Browne, Yvonne Francis-Gibson, union movement as a whole, has Cecil ‘Pa’ Jack, Cecil ‘Blazer’ an important role in bringing Williams from the St. Vincent trade union points of view to bear The Labour Congress and the Grenadines Teachers on government decisions. There Union; and other prominent is a prevailing school of thought, The National Labour Congress, union leaders and stalwarts however, being expressed by a in this instance, is a civic including Caspar London, Sonny section of our population, that the organization whom many regard Boyce and Noel Jackson. trade union movement has been as continuing to play its Only Noel Jackson, a tribune submerged recently into the responsible role in the in his own right, is still political directorate. developmental process of this relentlessly carrying a voice of This writer takes issue with nation, relative to the sociotrade unionism through his that view, and regards it as a economic advancement of Wednesday nights presentations myopic one. In my humble Vincentian workers. on NBC radio. opinion, the trade unions in St. For the National Labour Those presentations are very Vincent and the Grenadines are Congress to impact on the informative and educational, autonomous bodies, and they are national landscape, it must providing historical insights and indeed proving that they have embrace the obligation to provide background information on the complete freedom to act in their meaningful education to the record of his union, the National own interests. general public. It can do so Workers Movement. through the education system, The role of the Trade Union through its monographs in the Stable industrial climate media and the delivery of lectures Unfortunately, some narrowly in the community.

In conclusion, the trade union define the role of the trade union Last week, Tuesday 1st May movement here, needs to broaden movement as primarily one that Day ‘Fitness Walk’ organized by its influence in a positive way, connotes anti-establishment the NLC should have been which undoubtedly will bring tendencies. They advocate complemented by a march and efficacious benefits to workers, consistent, industrial dispute, rally to provide an historical not necessarily in terms of bread and glorify confrontation of background of the trade union and butter matters but whatever nature, with the movement in SVG. Many are information and education on political status quo. oblivious of the fact that George new trends in the world of trade As most of us in intelligent Augustus Mc Intosh and unionism. circles would know, trade unions Ebenezer Theodore Joshua were A note of consolation here for have essential functions to amongst the founding fathers of the trade union movement and all perform, the first of which is to trade unionism in the last Vincentians: in spite of some bargain on behalf of its members century. They were comfortably financial hiccups affecting all of for better pay and working the tribunes of ordinary us from time to time, we are still conditions, and secondly, to Vincentian folks. living fairly comfortably, unlike persuade the government of the Other notable trade union our sister nations across the day, to pass legislation in favour activists emerged during the globe, in a stable industrial of the working class. latter part of the last century, climate.

It is a requirement of any

by PATMOS RICHARDS

of all sorts of political atrocities against the people they are supposed to serve.

Quite frankly, I call this hypocrisy; I find it very disgusting and creepy when I hear our opposition and government politicians talking as if they are our servants. In my estimation, only a few politicians sincerely care about the people; too many of them come into politics to make wealth over night, to encourage nepotism and bully their people.

I can also see clearly now that most politicians, when in opposition, “sing the tune of a saint”, but when they are propelled by the people, there is a sudden metamorphosis. No wonder so many of them talk the “hypocritical language” of being our servants. I would not want to believe that most of our politicians think we are all stupid. Is it that their rhetoric and daily political maneuvers are enough to convince them that they are doing the people a favour, i.e. serving the people? Let’s have a national debate on whether they are our masters or our servants.

‘People-as-masters’ concept

should tell the political leaders how to run the party”; “party supporters should not wash their dirty linen in public”.

These utterances not only mirror arrogance on the part of the politicians; they also orchestrate political division so as to subdue the masses. And, these attitudes are the root cause to the many problems in our country today: people’s daily challenges to sustain their livelihood go unattended; communities are deprived of basic developmental needs; focus on pressing national issues is shifted through deliberate use of political gimmicks, rhetoric and self-praising political side-shows.

People must make demands Fools don’t beget wise men. People must come to an awareness of what is going on around them (both locally and globally), and what they really want. People must think for themselves before they demand progress.

I call on all the conscious-minded people to insist on their rights and dignity. We must all work together to keep the politicians accountable, regardless of party affiliation. The message that democracy means of the people, by (for) the people, has to be communicated, in loud and clear language, to all the political parties and politicians.

To the naive politicians: Be warned!

The status quo must change. The electorate, in particular our youths and their use of the social media, are becoming “unpredictable”, so I urge you all to wise-up!

THE PEOPLE DEMAND RESPECT AND ACCOUNTABILITY, NOT POLITICAL SERVITUDE! The PEOPLE are the true MASTERS!

People are supposed to be masters of their countries and bosses of their governments. This concept is respected in any modern state. When anti-colonialism and nationalism swept across the world, the intention was to reinforce the status of people as masters, not to have them remain as slaves to be lauded over by foreign neo- conquerors and/or domestic tyrants.

It is sad to say it, but not even independence has served to reinforce the ‘people-are-masters’ concept. What fill our ears, instead, are misconceptions, as exemplified by remarks such as: “people have to be grateful to their political leaders”; “no one A concerned citizen

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11 , 2012. 25.

People

Young musicians create a first for SVG playing ever, in Grade 3.

The outstanding THE WORLD of Vincentian player is 9-year-old children and serious music Tamar-Shalal Parris. has a first.

Her brother, Ivan, has The recently his own ‘distinction’, his adjudicated Associated being the first ever pass Board of Royal Schools of with merit- in that Music (ABRSM) exams grade- on the same results are in, and St. instrument.

Vincent has its first Their accomplishment distinction for violin is that much more

by COLIN KING

noteworthy in that both also attained merits in Piano: grade 3 for Tamara and grade 5 for Ivan.

This development bodes well for a Symphony Orchestra in SVG, which is one of the few countries in the Caribbean and worldwide which does

Amazing Amaza turns 100

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY AMAZA Lewistina Farrell is soaking up her 100th birthday. She marked the occasion at the Thompson’s Home last Friday, May 4.

Originally from the South Windward district of Calder, Amaza moved to Fountain. But her journey has taken her to other parts of the Centurion Amaza Farrell (centre) with family at the globe. celebration to mark her milestone.

Her husband, Conrad, died at age 84 member, Amaza was known for her in 1993. A son, Grafton, died at age generosity.

59. Her only other child, Isola Her daughter Isola noted her Mom’s Greaves, was part of the celebrations, appetite for natural foods. She is during which Amaza sat quietly and “proud” that her mother achieved the observed the proceedings which milestone, even as she, Isola disclosed, included Governor General Sir encountered problems relating to Frederick Ballantyne conveyed diabetes and hypertension. congratulations from Her Majesty According to Isola, Amaza was Queen Elizabeth. indifferent to her condition, and got on Amaza’s landmark was also recognized by United States’ president with life.

One granddaughter, Indritch Barrack Obama. She received a card Greaves, who resides in Houston, signed by the US president and his Texas, witnessed the celebration. She wife Michelle. deemed it a happy moment and Amaza spent 20 years in Curacao before returning to her homeland. She sighed: “I still have my grandmother.

“One hundred is quite an expansive subsequently migrated to the US where she worked as a Home Helper, time,” she remarked.

Other citizens joined staff and and became a citizen of that country. members of the Thompson Home in A staunch Anglican Church commemorating the event.

not have a symphony orchestra.

THE VINCENTIAN heard some of the violinists play in ensemble at the music studio on McKies Hill, and the results are indeed very promising.

They demonstrated an improvement in unison and expression over last year’s High Scorers performance.

Father and very proud music teacher, and local representative of ABRSM in SVG, Floyd Parris told THE VINCENTIAN “I am so excited, very excited…,” and he revealed that though the children love music and are doing well, Tamar wants to be a veterinarian, while Ivan wants to be a missionary.

Piano meanwhile, as the popular instrument of choice for many young classical musicians,

Ivan Parris attained passes in Grade 3 in violin and Grade 5 in piano. boasts no less than 4 distinctions: 12-year-old Al-Zidani Clarke in Grade 1; and Delvon Clarke, Andress Scott, and She-liese Stewart in Grade 3.

The results are a marked improvement over last year (with just one distinction), with 104 students taking the prestigious exam this year. There were 5 distinctions overall, 25 merits and 63 overall passes.

For the first time also, elusive in recent and past years, is the appearance of Grade 6 piano merit passes, accomplished by Caran Gordon, and Phil

Tamar-Shalal Parris attained passes in Grade 3 in violin and Grade 3 in piano.

Bowman, two secondary schoolers.

Thanks are extended to his Excellency Yoel Perez Marcano, Anbassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, for providing the location for the adjudication of the exams.

One wonders why serious music is not included in the ‘regular’ school’s curriculum, along with matriculation for ABRSM, since studies have shown that it encourages and enhances success in other academic areas, as well as offsetting negative trends evidenced worldwide in cultural choices our youth make.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Renovations or purchases made for your home will payoff. Hide your cards and learn to say no.

Sign up for courses that will help you understand yourself better.

You need to pamper yourself for a change.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You may find acquaintances being deceptive. You can make new friends by taking part in social events involving colleagues. Real estate investments could be to your ad vantage. Get proper medical attention and confront your situation decisively.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You will do best to entertain those you wish to close deals with. You may find that your anger stems from lending or borrowing money.

Don't let your personal dilemmas interfere with your goals. Older family members may try to make demands that are impossible for you to handle.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You can look into new jobs but don't count on getting help from someone who may have promised you assistance. Hobbies will be good for your emotional well being. Risks will not be profitable.

Be willing to listen, but don't be fooled.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You must make sure that all your personal documents are in order.

Watch for empty promises that may give you false hope. Enjoy the company of relatives this week. Catch up on correspondence.

ACROSS 1. Neither’s partner 4. “Without a trace” org.

7. Astronauts’ gp.

11. Cagers’ org.

12. A Guthrie 14. Wielder 15. Powdered headwear 16. Soft mineral 17. Pinball error 18. __ -frutti 20. Mexican specialty 22. Kercheval of “Dallas” 23. Had a bite 24. Cast member 27. “Star” to “tars” 31. Churchill’s sign

32. Igloo material 33. Male sibling, slangily 34. Pasta specification (2 wds.)

37. Very strange 39. Quebec article 40. West of Hollywood 41. Card game 44. Readied the presses 47. “At __!”

48. Granted use of 50. Funniness 52. Nights before holidays 53. Unshackled 54. Australian bird 55. Yard units

MONDAY

May 11th, 2012

May 12th, 2012

May 13th, 2012

May 14th, 2012

May 15th, 2012

May 16th, 2012

Morning

Morning

Morning

Morning

Morning

Morning

CNN Wannabes Overruled Movie Com ‘Pg’ “Prom” 10:00 Movie Ani ‘G’ “Care Bears” 11:25 Movie Com ‘G’ “Pinocchio”

6:00 CNN 7:00 Your Destiny 8:00 Trinity In Touch 8:30 Mik 9:00 Bible Speaks 9:30 Faith & Truth 10:00 Movie Adv ‘Pg’ “Adventures Of A Teenage Dragonslayer”

Afternoon

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don't get intimately involved with a coworker. Acceptance will be necessary. You must watch your tendency to spend whatever you make. You'll be pleased with the results if you take the time to decorate your home.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't let your mate bully you into thinking that you owe them your time and your life. Those you live with may be experiencing problems. Try not to push your philosophies on others. You can make major decisions regarding your professional direction.

41. “Where’s the __?”

42. Rant’s partner 43. Psychic’s phrase (2 wds.)

45. Large pitcher 46. Ten cents 49. Pausers’ sounds 51. Prom suit, for short

SUNDAY

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will communicate easily and should be able to accomplish all that you set out to do. Remember that no one can walk through your door if there's someone standing in the doorway. Enlist coworkers in order to get the job done on time.

Your partner could make you angry if they steal your thunder or embarrass you in front of others.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your partner could make you angry if they steal your thunder or embarrass you in front of others.

Delve a little deeper if you really want to know the score. Do not lend money or belongings to friends. You can find out interesting information if you get a chance to talk to people you respect.

1. Opp. of SSE 2. Sad news item, for short 3. Prego’s competition 4. Plumper 5. Scarecrow’s desire 6. “__ Cry instead” 7. Eggnog spice 8. Tibet’s continent 9. Retail 10. Johnson of “Laugh-In” 13. Gasoline classification 19. Boxing abbr.

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

6:00 CNN 9:00 Shepherd’s Chapel 10:00 Caribbean Newsline 10:30 Vincy Carnival Rewind 11:30 Live Up

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Get together with friends for some competitive physical activities.

Romance could be exciting if you are spontaneous. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction.

Deceit with coworkers is apparent.

DOWN

21. __ moment’s notice (2 wds.)

24. Ex of Artie and Mickey 25. Animation collectible 26. Actor Danson 27. High card 28. Diamond stat 29. Timetable abbr.

30. In vogue 32. Reflexive pronoun 35. Senior 36. Not positive (abbr.)

37. Desired 38. Mousespotter’s cry 40. Sal of “Rebel without a cause”

THIS WEEK ON

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Good friends will give you honest answers. Get help setting up a reasonable budget. Look into ways of making extra cash. Losses could occur if you haven't been careful when dealing with joint financial ventures. Don't believe everything you hear.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Secret affairs may be tempting.

Recognition will be yours if you meet your deadline. Y Shopping could cost more than you bargained for. You are likely to reveal information unintentionally.

56. Pregrown lawn 57. Critic Reed

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

26. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

12:00 Headline News 1:00 Still 1:30 3D 2:00 Las Vegas 3:00 Youn 4:00 Cat In The Hat 4:30 Jelly Jam 5:00 My Little Pony 5:30 Martha Speaks Evening 6:00 The Right Of The People 6:30 Yes There Is Hope 7:00 SVGTV News 7:50 Caribbean Passport 8:25 To Be Announced 8:50 3D/Lotto Draws 9:00 Tele-Classifieds 9:10 SVGTV Obituaries 9:15 Bold & Beautiful 9:55 Super 6 Draw 10:00 Movie Com ‘Pg’ “A League Of Their Own” 1:00 Movie Hor ‘R’ “Bordello Of Blood“ 3:00 Movie Hor ‘R “Tales From The Darkside” 5:00 CNN News

THURSDAY May 17th, 2012 Morning 6:00 CNN News 9:00 Shepherd’s Chapel 10:00 Caribbean Newsline

6:00 7:30 8:00 8:30

6:00 CNN News 9:00 Shepherd’s Chapel 10:00 Untamed & Uncut 11:00 CSI: Miami

TUESDAY

6:00 CNN News 9:00 Shepherd’s Chapel 10:00 Caribbean Newsline 10:30 My Child & I 11:30 Meet The Brownes

WEDNESDAY

6:00 CNN News 9:00 Shepherd’s Chapel 10:00 Caribbean Newsline 10:30 House Of Payne Afternoon 11:00 Meet The Afternoon Brownes Afternoon 12:00 Headline News 11:30 Caribbean 1:30 3D 1:00 Las Vegas 12:00 Headline News Passport 1:35 To Be 1:00 Law & Order Afternoon 1:30 3D Announced 1:30 3D 2:00 SVGTV Sports 2:00 The Doctors Afternoon 12:00 Paula 3:00 To Be 2:00 CSI 3:00 Kick Buttowski 12:30 Turning Point Announced 3:00 Planet Earth 3:30 Fish Hooks 12:35 Headline 1:00 Direction 3:30 Meet The 4:00 Phineas & Ferb 4:00 The Cat In The News Brownes 2:00 Movie Dra ‘R’ Hat 4:30 Suite Life On 4:00 Basia (Baja) 1:00 House “Holiday 4:30 Jelly Jam 5:00 Inside Story Heart” Deck 1:30 3D 5:00 Jewel In The 4:00 Movie Dra ‘Pg’ 5:00 Caribbean 2:00 Modern History Palace Evening “The Lorreta Power Outreach 3:00 Youn Claiborne 5:30 Girl Friend 4:00 Fish 6:00 Ran Evening Story” 6:30 Living Water 4:30 Deck Ministries 6:00 To Be 5:00 Basia Evening Evening 7:00 SVGTV News Announced 7:25 Sportweek 6:30 We Cooking 6:00 Health Talk Evening 6:00 Paula 7:55 Voice Of 6:30 Flash Back 7:00 SVGTV News Freedom 6:30 In Touch 7:00 Children On 7:55 A.P.I Presents 8:25 F H Videos 6:00 Paula 7:00 SVGTV News The Move 8:55 3D/Lotto Draws 6:30 Serving The 8:55 3D 7:55 Encounter 7:30 Live Up 9:00 Guinness Rush 9:00 Tele-Classified People 8:25 The Law & You 9:10 SVGTV 8:00 My Child & I Hour 7:00 SVGTV News 9:00 Movie Act ‘R’ 8:55 3D 10:00 Movie Com Obituaries “Columbia‘Pg-13’ 9:00 Tele – 9:15 Bold & Beautiful 7:50 Chronicles na” “Yes Man” 8:00 North Leeward Classifieds 9:35 Caribbean 11:35 Movie Hor ‘R’ 10:50 Movie Com In Focus 9:10 SVGTV Newsline “The Reef” ‘Pg-13’ 8:35 Book Review 10:00 Movie Act ‘R’ Obituaries 12:00 Movie Com “Midnight In “Death Wish 8:55 3D ‘Pg-13’ 9:15 WWE Monday Paris” “Fun With II” 9:00 Tele-Classifieds 12:30 Movie Com ‘R’ Night Raw Dick & Jane” 12:00 Movie Act ‘R’ “Confess9:05 SVGTV 11:05 Common Law 2:30 Movie Dra ions “War Obituaries 12:30 CSI ‘Pg-13’ Dangerous” Games” 9:10 Bold & 1:35 Movie Act ‘R’ “Kicking 2:30 Magic City 2:30 Movie Act Beautiful And “Running 3:25 Movie Dra /Com ‘Pg-13’ 9:30 Caribbean Screaming” Scared” ‘Pg-13’ “Kinder4:15 Married With Newsline “Step Up 3” 4:00 Law & Order CI garten Cop” Children 10:00 Movie Act ‘”R” 5:15 CNN News 5:00 CNN News 5:00 CNN 5:00 CNN News “Death Wish 3” 7:55 A.P.I Presents 11:45 Movie Hor ‘R’ 10:30 House Of 1:30 3D 12:00 Movie Com 8:55 3D 2:00 Burn Notice “Hellraiser: Payne “R” 9:00 TeleInferno” 11:00 Entertainment 3:00 Pink Panther “Tin Cup” Classifieds 1:30 Movie Dra ‘Pg’ 4:00 Chowder

By Design 9:10 SVGTV 5:00 Jewel In The 3:00 Movie Com “R” “Farewell 11:30 We Cooking Obituaries Palace “CaddyMy Lovely” 9:15 Book Review shack” 3:10 Movie Dra ‘R’ Afternoon 9:25 Bold & Evening 5:00 CNN News “Roger Beautiful 6:00 New Life Dodger” 12:00 Headline 10:00 Movie Com Baptist * Programme guide 5:00 CNN News News ‘R’ Church subject to change.

“Gun Shy” 7:00 SVGTV News 1:00 Challenge

V Not my boyfriendÊs baby

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 27.

Advice

men in an effort to forget about him. I went back to him soon after my I HAVE BEEN with my attempts to date other boyfriend for just over a year now and we have had men because I realized I do love him very much. I some good times told him that I tried to together. I just asked of forget about him by him one thing and that is never to lie to me. I found dating other men, but it out 2 months ago that he was not enough to get rid of him from my mind. has in fact lied to me. I He understood that and was not the only woman said he would try to do he was involved with.

We argued over it, and better.

I just discovered that I decided to leave him out. I tried to date other I am pregnant and it was

Dear George,

not supposed to happen.

All precautions were taken before I slept with the other guy, only to see if I could stop myself from thinking about my boyfriend. I do not know how to tell him I’m pregnant. I can say to him that the child is his, but I’m just wondering my options.

I do not want to lose this guy, but I am afraid it might just happen now that I’m pregnant for

Woman’s eyes on my sisters Dear George,

doing.

THERE IS this woman who is a friend of mine, or I should say, was a friend of mine because I am beginning to question her friendship. She is a woman who loves other women. I have no problem with that, but she has started to hit on my two sisters. I told her that I did not appreciate that, and she promised not to continue; but people are meeting me and telling me that my sisters are dealing with her.

George, this woman has quite a few married and unmarried women in this place completely locked down. I have no dealings with her in that way, but I just do not like the way she is going about her business. I want her to leave my sisters alone. Both of them have their husbands, and this could get very nasty very quickly, if any of those men get to find out what she is

Concerned Dear Concerned, I understand you want to look out for your sisters, but you should take the discussion to your sisters as well.

They are old enough to make their own decisions. They should know it is never a good idea to invite another person into the relationship - woman or man.

If they choose to jeopardize their marriage by allowing another person to get between them and their partners, then it is entirely their decision. Speak with them again, and after that, leave them to take care of their own business.

George

I want her back Dear George, Dear XXJ, MY WIFE is now out of the country for over 4 months. Since then, I heard from her only once, and that was when she arrived in New York and called to say she “reach.”

The number she had for me to reach her at is not in service. I called her sister, who is also in New York, and she promised to ask her to call me; but nothing up to today.

I am hearing all sorts of rumours that my wife is there with another man, but I cannot reach my wife to confirm that. I know her sister knows where she is, but I get the feeling she does not want to tell me.

We have had our ups and downs, but nothing to cause her to do what she did. One week before she left, we had a fight, and I managed to hit her by mistake, and I am thinking she is taking that too seriously. George, I just want her to come home!

I am thinking that your wife probably said to herself that it was a mistake for you to hit her and she has had enough of your aggression. You cannot attribute your violence against her to a ‘mistake’. Furthermore, she can choose whether to remain in a situation in which she does not feel safe, or move away to a place where she feels safer.

Yes, you may want her to come home; but you need to ask yourself whether she is comfortable at home with you. Home is where your heart is, and if her heart is not there, then your home may not be her home anymore.

Having said all of that, it would help if she can be clear and say what her intentions are in terms of her marriage to you.

XXJ

George

another man.

Worried Dear Worried, I suppose by now you know that you went about this the wrong way. The best way is always to be clear-cut and decisive in your dealings. It is either you are IN or OUT. Sleeping with another man is not the way to try

to ‘forget’ about your boyfriend.

There is only one way to find out how he truly feels about you, and that is to be truthful. If he remains with you then

you know that your relationship is on solid ground. Only then can you begin to rebuild.

George

28. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11 , 2012. 29.

V

30. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

NIS launches new program

by KARISSA CLARKE

Participants take in the NIS session on that services new E-Submit Plus programme.

THE OPERATIONS OF THE NATIONAL INSURANCE SERVICES (N.I.S) ARE BEING MODERNIZED, with the introduction of services such as the ESubmit Plus Programme.

The E-Submit Plus Programme was officially launched last week Friday, May 4th 2012, and is intended to assist employers in submitting information electronically.

Speaking at last week’s launch, Assistant I.T. Manager with the NIS, Dayne

Nicholls, said the N.I.S. will be rolling out other E- Service programmes in the near future, in keeping with its intention to significantly reduce the amount of paper used in its daily operations.

After a survey to determine the needs of self-employed persons in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the NIS Launched version 1 of esubmit plus programme two years ago.

Reginald Thomas, Executive Director of the NIS, in a brief address, reiterated the NIS mission, “to provide social security and to promote social and economic development in St. incent and the Grenadines,” took the time out to express his thanks and sincerest appreciation to the staff, for all the hard work which would have been put in to get the latest

programme completed.

Lennox Bowman, Chairman of the NIS Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of efficient and effective processing of data and how the E-Submit Plus Programme assists in this regard.

Bowman also pointed to the introduction of the programme as helping “the NIS to achieve legislative compliance of employers and employees.”

Felix Bowman, one of the lead programmers, facilitated the demonstration of the programme, and encouraged those present to always share their suggestions and needs with the NIS as this “helps us to improve.”

The NIS plans to unveil a number of other projects in the near future.

Karib Cable supports Owia carnival

MISS DARIAN LAVIA WILL WEAR THE SASH AND ENSIGNIA OF KARIB CABLE when she competes in the 2012 Miss Owia Princess Pageant.

The cable television service provider has extended sponsorship to Miss Lavia for the pageant

scheduled for May 25, , at the Owia Big River.

The Miss Owia Princess pageant is one of the activities for carnival in Owia, that will be organized by the Owia Sports and Cultural organization (OSCO), and Sheena

Child of that organization expressed gratitude to Karib Cable for its support.

“The Owia Sport and Cultural Organization is thankful for the monetary support donated by Karib Cable for our rural carnival activities,” said Child,

adding, “We are a new organization that has recently taken up the task of organizing rural carnival activities for the village of Owia.”

Other activities expected to form part of the Owia carnival activities include a

J’Ouvert celebration, a Tshirt street party and a foam fete and river lime.

“We are asking everyone from the surrounding areas to come out and give your support to these activities,” appealed Child.

Vance Garraway, Marketing Executive of Karib Cable, said that his company was thrilled to provide support for and endorsement of the rural carnival activities put on by the Owia Sports and Cultural Organization.

Sheena Child of OSCO (left) accepts donation from Natakie Franklyn of Karib Cable.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 31.

V

32. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Invest SVG leads promotion to Trinidad MAY 16th, 2012 will see the hosting of a promotional seminar by the nation’s investment promotions agency, Invest SVG, in the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The seminar, which coincides with the opening of the annual

Trade and Investment Conference (TIC) being held in that country, will be in an effort to promote SVG’s International Financial Services (IFS) sector.

The event is expected to see approximately 50 participants from the business community in

Trinidad & Tobago.

The four-member delegation, inclusive of Cleo Huggins (Executive Director - Invest SVG), Jeanne Martin (Marketing Officer -IFS Invest SVG), Adrian Baron (CEO — Loyal Bank Ltd) and Giselle Peters (International

Financial Services Authority — IFSA), will leave the state on Tuesday, May 15.

Invest SVG will also participate in the annual Trade and Investment Conference (TIC) 2012.

The TIC is the Caribbean’s largest business-to-business

event. A multi-sector tradeshow, it brings together regional and international manufacturers, service providers, exporters, buyers, distributors, wholesalers, and investors.

The agency is anticipating several

business transactions to take place by the end of the event between localbased businesses and regional and international buyers.

Invitations were extended to local businesses registered with Invest SVG to partake in the conference. As a result, Vincy Fresh will be accompanying Invest SVG to the conference to display their selection of products. In addition to Vincy Fresh, products from other local businesses will be promoted through Invest SVG’s booth at the event.

The conference will take place from the 16th — 19th May 2012.

LIME presents business selections LIME, this country’s full service telecommunications provider, launched BUSINESS SELECTIONS to its Corporate customers last Thursday at the Halifax Street Corporate headquarters.

The main objective of BUSINESS SELECTIONS is to provide an avenue to expose business customers and potential customers to LIME’s business preposition.

In this first event, customers were given insight into the benefits of the company’s business prepositions such as International Direct Dialling (IDD), CPE - Mitel 1000, Mobile Plans and GSM Gateway (bolt on for mobile calls via PABX).

Head of Corporate Sales and Services, Cicyln Joseph, was pleased with the turn out, thanked the customers for their commitment to LIME, and reassured the audience of LIME’s continued pledge to offer services that are enablers of business growth and development.

In particular, Ms Joseph indicated that the preposition offered at BUSINESS Selections will certainly aid businesses to reduce their operating cost, improve efficiency, and facilitated a better customer/client experience.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 33.

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

V

34. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

The victorious Under-17 Barrouallie team.

The champion Barrouallie senior team.

Barrouallie dominate Community Football League

by KENVILLE HORNE

Holding trophy are Delano John (left) and Kyle Edwards (right) scorers in Barrouallie Under-17 team’s win.

A LARGE CROWD turned out at the Victoria Park last Sunday, May 6, to witness the finals of the Community Football Inter-League Championship.

Glory on the day went to the footballers from Central Leeward.

Layou would have entered the finals of the Senior category of the Championship with an advantage and an air of confidence, having disposed of their Central Leeward opponents, Barrouallie, in the preliminary round.

And this confidence shone early into the match when national striker, Shandel Samuel, in the 15th minute, converted for Layou after Wendell Cuffy’s shot had rebounded off the Barrouallie goalkeeper.

Layou continued to dominate the play and seemed likely to score again. But that was not to be, and the match turned into the close encounter the large number of spectators anticipated, when , in the 30th minute, Oalex Anderson eluded two Layou defenders, cut inside to cross a ball, which Shavel Cunningham guided past the Layou keeper,

National Squash Championship concludes AMBER GLASGOW, James Bentick, Telbert Samuel, Colin Alexander and Jules Snagg emerged Champions in last weekend’s 2012 National Senior Squash Tournament, played at the National Squash Centre, Paul’s Avenue, Kingstown.

Glasgow won the Women’s Open Title, beating Greta Primus 11-3, 11-8, 11-13, 13-11. Tessa Shallow-King took third place after defeating Deidre Myers 116, 11-6, 11-8.

National Coach James Bentick shot past Colin Alexander, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6, to win the Men’s Over40 Title, with Telbert Samuel copping third after defeating Perry De Freitas 11-5, 11-3, 1214, 11-8.

Telbert Samuel bettered his earlier third position in the Over40, when he beat Leroy Lewis, 711, 11-7, 8-11, 11-6, 11-4, to win

the Men’s Over-50 Title. Keith Boyea took the third spot after beating the evergreen John Horne 11-8, 11-9, 15-17, 11-9.

Collin Alexander defeated last year’s champion Raffique Brown, 11-8, 11-8, 5-11, 11-9, to clinch the Men’s B Title, while Steve ‘CAP’ Ollivierre took third Action in the place, beating Bradley Glasgow 1210, 11-7, 11-4.

In the Men’s ‘A championship, Jules Snagg claimed first place by defeating his main rival Kevin Hannaway 6-11, 11-3, 11-8, 11-5 in the final. Third was Kevin Bailey who beat Shane Slater in

for Barroullie’s first goal.

It was not long after, in the 32nd minute, when Layou fans were silenced. Jomo Topping cheekily chipped the ball over the Layou keeper, to give Barrouallie a 2-1 lead.

No rain could stop the …

The second half got going in an atmosphere of manful competition, but 23 minutes to the final whistle the clouds burst and the rain forced the game to be halted.

The resulting water-logged field caused some spectators to leave, believing the match would have to be abandoned.

However, much to the delight of those who had remained, the match was resumed. Earlier into the resumption, Shandel Samuel received a ball from the mid-field, raced down the right wing, beat two defenders and sent a fierce shot that raced across the front of the Barroullie goal.

However, Barrouallie were unlucky not to score a third time. A Shavel Cunningham shot beat the keeper but the water logged field slowed the pace of the ball, giving a Layou defender enough time to clear the danger.

The match closed as it did at the end of the first half, 2 to 1 in Barrouallie’s favour.

Other competitions

National Squash Championship. straight sets 11-6, 11-6, 12-10.

The Vincentian Seniors will participate later this month in the OECS Championship, scheduled for the British Virgin Islands.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Layou were not without their accolades. They took home the Under-13 category of the Championship, beating Central Kingstown 2 goals to nil, in the final. Joel Quashie scored both goals for Layou.

The Under-17 finals was a preview of the senior final, with the same communities, Layou and Barrouallie featuring.

The writing was on the wall, perhaps, when Barrouallie established an early hold on the match.

A timely and accurate cross in front the goal by a Barrouallie defender, found the head of Kyle Edwards for Barrouallie’s first goal in the 21st minute. Ten minutes later, the second goal came after a Layou defender failed to make a clearance, resulting in striker Delano John unleashing a left foot drive into the back of the Layou goal, giving Barrouallie a deserving 2-0 win.

Sunday’s attendance did not escape the comment of many spectators who advanced the view that it was the largest at a local competition for a long time.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 35.

Sports

Marcus Castello, captain of Alumbrera Sweepers, readies himself to crash one to the boundary.

Lyndon Garrick plays one through the off side in his innings for Pink House Tags.

Alumbrera, Milson Construction win in Mustique

secured their total from a solid start from Cedrick Grant and IN THE FIRST OF TWO MATCHES Osborne Williams, both with played last weekend in the innings of 19, and a captain’s Mustique T/20 Tournament, innings of 34 not out from Marcus Alumbrera Sweepers scored a Castello. Terrance Baptiste, relatively easy victory over Pink bowling for Pink House Tags, House Tags. made his presence felt in the Pink House Tags batting first, middle of the Alumbrera recovered from a shaky start to Sweepers innings with a score 109 all out, losing their last spectacular 4 overs, 1 maiden, 14 wicket on the last ball of their runs, 4 wickets spell, and in the allotted 20 overs. A no nonsense process took the first hattrick for innings from all-rounder Lyndon the season.

Garrick, who scored 22, and Marcus Castello was adjudged Julian Sutherland with 20 the Man of the Match for his allensured that Pink House Tags went past 100 runs. All-rounder round performance.

Last year’s champions, Toma Marcus Castello took 3 wickets for Hawks Sweetie Pie, had a very 9 runs from his 4 overs, bowling unforgiving entry into this year’s for Alumbrera. tournament against Milsom Alumbrera Sweepers scored Construction, when they put in a 110 for 6 from 18.5 overs. They

by PAUL JAMES

RBTT Carib Stars will meet from 2pm.

POLICE TWO TOOK FIRST INNINGS honours over their counterparts Police One in a drawn game in the National Premier Division Cricket Competition, on the weekend.

In a match played at the Arnos Vale Two Playing Field, Police Two batted first and posted 222, led by Danny Allen, 33 and Gerald Gould 29.

Malcolm Alexander, Parnel Browne and Sylvan Spencer had 2 wickets a piece. Police One replied with 133, Peter Morris top scoring with 36.

Mohammed Lavia took 4 for 26 and Kenroy Martin 3 for 28. Batting a second time, Police Two reached 133 for 2 declared. Salvan Browne led the batting with 84, while Elron Lewis was unbeaten on 30. Set to make 222 runs for victory, Police One were 28 without loss when rain stopped play.

The News Spartans secured first innings over national T/20 champions Victors One at the Stubbs Playing Field in a low scoring game.

Victors One posted 103 in their 1st innings, Atticus Browne topscoring with 28 Basil Andrews took 4 for 18 and Kentish Bascombe 4 for 21. In reply, News Spartans made 124. Remando Coombs, former youth player, led with 60. Keiron Cottoy took 5 for 26 and Donwell Hector 4 for 29.

Victors One in their 2nd innings declared at 208 for 8. Ray Jordan topscored with 44, Atticus Browne hit 39 and Miles Bascombe 32. Tiron Simon took 3 for 65. Set to make 185 runs for victory, The News Spartans reached 101 for 4 when rain stopped play. Gidron Pope led with 66.

Ray Jordan had 3 for 20.

At Buccament, Belmont United won on first innings from Bryden’s Frutee Youth United in the First Division. Belmont United posted 143 in their 1st innings. Javed Cordice hit 30 and Troy Harry 26. Joel O’Garro grabbed 3 for 38 and Daryl Lyttle 3 for 40. In reply, Bryden’s Frutee Youth United reached 114. Keroy Roberts made 23. Javed Cordice took 4 for 16 and McLaren Delpesche 3 for 14. Belmont United in their 2nd innings were 34 for 4 when rain stopped play.

Joel O’Garro took 4 for 14.

This weekend, GLA Boutique Radcliffe will play ASCO at Arnos Vale Two, Saints will oppose Team Rivals at Arnos Vale One in the Premier Division. In the First Division, Bryden Frutee Youth United face Log Masters at Buccament, Radcliffe Too oppose Smashers at North Union, and Unique Warriors clash with Belmont United at Stubbs.

I.B.A.ALLEN

I.B.A.ALLEN

performance that seemed to lack any real preparation.

Toma Hawks, batting first, had their top 3 batsmen back in the stands with just 3 runs in the books. They enjoyed a late surge to score 114 all out in 19.2 overs, after a fight-back led by Anthony Bute, who scored 32. Milsom Construction’s Harris Roberts bagged 3 for 22.

Milsom Construction cruised to 115 for 5 in 18.3 overs to secure a victory. A resilient innings of 26 from Rohan Blake and a massive 28 extras aided in Toma Hawks’ demise. Michael Charles, 2 for 33, was Toma Hawks’ best bowler.

Rohan Blake was judged Man of the Match.

Matches are scheduled to continue this weekend.

Lavia on fire in 2012 Bequia T/20 KURTLAN LAVIA captured the limelight in matches played last weekend in the Bequia Twenty/20 Cricket Championship, at the Clive Tannis Playing Field in Port Elizabeth.

Lavia slammed an aggressive 170, his first century of the season and the highest individual score to date in the Championship, as Prize Warriors Canouan romped to a convincing 187 runs victory over MANI-COU. He helped Canouan pile up 292 for 3 from their 20 overs. He was well supported by Dwayne Charles who

stroked 92. In reply, MANI-COU were dismissed for 106 in 20 overs. Kurt Lavia made 21.

Prize Warriors Canouan, though, had not fared so well in an earlier weekend encounter against RBTT Carib Stars. They went under to the Stars by 39 runs.

Batting first, Carib Stars posted 150 all out from 18.3-overs. Junus King made 63, while Venkurt Baptiste got 44.

Darren John grabbed 4 for 21 for Canouan. .

Prize Warriors Canouan, in reply, were dismissed for 122 off

16.1overs, with Kurtlan Lavia warming up with 36 and Kazim Nero 28.

Desron Lavia captured five for 24 for Carib Warriors.

Three more matches will be played this weekend at the Clive Tannis Playing Field. On Saturday, reigning champion Knights Trading Aussies will play South Side United from 2 pm. Then on Sunday, JSM Saloon Royal Challengers will face MANI-COU in the first of a doubleheader from ten in the morning.

Later, last year’s finalist Admiralty Transport Youth Combine and

Police 2, Spartans take first innings honours

Kurtlan Lavia top scored for Prize Warriors Canouan in their two matches played last weekend.

V

36. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Sacred ground THE FINAL of the Community Football Competition ended at Victoria Park following a delay caused by heavy showers, which left pools of water on the playing surface. Barrouallie achieved a 2:1 win, to the delight of their supporters, many of whom had journeyed over the 15 mile distance from the Central Leeward town to see the clash.

Their rivals were Layou, a squad which boasted a number of national players.

Barrouallie also had some national players, but not as many as their neighbours to the south.

That the finalists came from that constituency speaks volumes for the caliber of football within that zone. And the trend seems likely to continue, for Layou took the Under-13 title at the expense of their Kingstown challengers, whilst Barrouallie made it a double, having taken care of their Under-17 opponents also from Layou.

The echo from the activity at Victoria Park formed the parting atmosphere for Frank O. Mason whose passing was announced the following day.

Mason had roots in Barrouallie, and final moments must have been spent egging on compatriots, for, like he managed in 1962, Victoria came as sacred ground for another generation of Barrouallie descendants.

It was on that very ground at Victoria Park that Mason etched his name in the nation’s sporting history with figures of 9 for 13 against Dominica in his farewell escapade 50 years ago. That feat has become a centerpiece of Vincentian folklore. Many thought he ought to have been selected to the West Indies squad.

But that debate still rages, and the vagaries of regional cricket policy are yet to be overcome.

Mason remains the symbol of this country’s most reputable sporting figure. He must have been blessed for his exploits. He maintained that strength of character up to the very last, a reminder of the awesome physical attributes which made him the destructive fast bowler he was.

Mason enhanced other aspects of life, such as in agriculture and security.

He was a god fearing man, as evidenced by his dedication to the Methodist Church and especially his role in the choir.

He was something of a national pride, for persons were only too keen to brag on his accomplishments on the field of play.

His value was enhanced at the Windward and Leeward levels, and such was his prowess that he was entrusted to the leadership of the Combined Windward and Leeward outfit without any questions asked. Every Vincentian citizen came to learn to appreciate and respect the depth of his contribution.

Through it all, he cherished his accomplishments, but he was a humble man and seemed to accept life in a humourous but humane manner.

It is perhaps ironic that the new prison was opened at Belle Isle hill, within distance of the town of Barrouallie, within days of Mason’s passing.

Mason was an all-round sportsman. When his playing days were over, he turned his attention to officiating. His command of the proceedings during a football match was reflective of his strict discipline, and his presence helped to maintain some level of decorum and decency.

His contribution as Cricket umpire is also symbolic, and he kept his interest in the sport to the end.

F.O. ,as he was affectionately known, will continue as one of this nation’s greatest personalities. How will that legacy be immortalized will be a reflection of our homage to our heroes.

Local coaches with training facilitator, Football officials and Government personnel.

Football coaches enhance their skills Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

RODRIGO KENTON JOHNSON rounds up today, Friday 11th May, a week of facilitating a training programme for football coaches at the Media Centre at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Kenton Johnson is Costa Rican, but acknowledges his Jamaican roots. He represented Costa Rica at the highest level before he turned to coaching.

He ist he first native to take Costa Rica to the Under-23 Olympics, a feat achieved in 2004.

Johnson was assistant coach to Bora Milutinovic when Costa Rica advanced to the second round of the 1990 World Cup in Italy. The partnership was again in operation for Nigeria in the 1998 World Cup. His knack and tenacity did not go unnoticed, and he was drafted into Fifa’s Technical Study Group for the 2006 World Cup.

Expectations high “I am here to share my knowledge,” Johnson told an audience at last Monday’s opening ceremony.

“You have the potential. You have to organize,” was his assessment of the proceedings there.

He urged participants to take advantage of the training and ask questions.

Johnson anticipates that the training will bear fruit and expressed the hope that “we can make a

strong and heavy step.”

SVG Football Federation president, Venold Coombs, pointed to the previous night’s events at Victoria Park, when the Community Football tournament ended, as an example of his executive’s drive at developing football here.

Johnson was present to get a firsthand view of Vincentian footballers in action.

Coombs cited the coaching assignment as Rodrigo Kenton another measure aimed at Johnson conduced ensuring that football the training reaches its pinnacle.

It was also disclosed that programme for local coaches.

Friendly matches for the senior national team will be arranged to prepare them for the Digicel Cup. Arrangements have also been made for engagements for the Under-20 team in that team’s build-up to a World Cup qualification round scheduled to be held here in July.

Senator Elvis Charles, Junior Minister in the Sports Ministry, declared the session open. Nelson Hillocks, Director of Sports and Physical Education here, also addressed the opening.

Laying the foundation for Layou IT MIGHT appear as a natural phenomenon that the Central Leeward town of Layou churns out players for the national football squads, year after year.

Perhaps it has become something of a legacy, continuing on the foundation of the Morris brothers, to Marcus Young, Ezra Hendrickson.

Whatever, one thing is certain: One man in the community is taking it on himself to groom a crop the youngsters.

Chester Hendrickson is the coach of the Layou Under-13 team which came out unbeaten in the recent national tournament. The Layou squad played unbeaten in that tournament.

Such a tournament played right up Hendrickson’s street.

“I was looking forward to this competition for the longest while,” Hendrickson said. He outlined that he had a group in training for the past six years. He took them under control from age six. He recalled playing matches throughout the state.

When the Development Programme undertaken by the Football Federation some years ago took root, Hendrickson found some encouragement for his activity. The staging of the Under-13 championship fuelled his enthusiasm.

Chester is working on the total development of

his players. He is catering for the spiritual, educational and other social needs of the youngsters.

“I feeding the senior team,” Chester outlined.

He was pointing to his hometown Layou in the first instance.

His preference is to remain with the six- year olds, and he has a special connection with the current Under-13 Layou team, with his 12year-old son, Cheslon Hendrickson, being a member.

Chester has been upgrading his coaching skills by attending courses wherever possible.

He is a cousin of former national defender Ezra Hendrickson. Ezra

Chester Hendrickson sees his mission as ensuring the future of Layou football. was part of a formidable defence line up which kept many a lethal front line at bay.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 37.

Gearing up against the lionfish EFFORTS TO COMBAT THE THREAT OF THE LIONFISH in the waters under the jurisdiction of the Tobago Cays Marine Park (TCMP) recently received a much needed boost.

On May 3rd, Mr. Allan Silverstein, President of

Canouan Dive Centre, handed over to the rangers of TCMP four sets of lionfish spears and a first aid kit , representing a total value of USD$1,000.00 (EC$2700.00).

In making the

Major Jean Pierre Antoine (left) receives cheque from Ms Catherine Allen of the Biabou Fitness Group.

Biabou Group donates to Children’s Home THE SALVATION ARMY Children’s Home Project, the McArthur House for Children, received a deserving donation recently.

The donation, an amount of $1000.00, was made by the Biabou Fitness Group. It comprised $500.00 raised by the Group through a sponsored walk to celebrate its 3rd anniversary, and a matching $500.00 by Pastor Dr. Walford Thompson.

Pastor Thompson’s gesture was in honour of his mother and wife who were Salvationists.

The EC$1,000 donation was presented to Major Jean Pierre Antoine of the Salvation Army, on Thursday May 3rd.

According to Mrs. Yvonne Browne, President of the Group, “We have seen the evidence of the work that the Salvation Army has done over the years, and think that this project is a good one for us to make a contribution to.”

The Biabou Fitness Group was established by the Health Promotion Unit of the Ministry of Health and the Environment, and they meet every Thursday at the Biabou Resource Centre for their fitness routines and general socialisation.

“Working with the Biabou Fitness Group demonstrates a realistic and positive image of active ageing,” said Ms Patsy Wyllie, Chief Health Educator, “and it shows that our senior citizens can fully participate in community life. They are truly bridging (the) age youth gap.”

Congratulations to Diego Francis Diego is pictured here with his mother Charmine (left), sister Krystle (right) and friend Jessica at his graduation, May 1st, 2012, at the Florida International University, from which he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.

Diego is the son of Brandley and Charmine Francis.

presentation, Mr. Silverstein expressed the hope that the spears “will be used for the demise of the lionfish.”

He sees his donation as the beginning of a fruitful partnership between the TCMP and Canouan Dive, in pursuance of the preservation of the Tobago Cays, which he considers “the most beautiful place

on earth.”

Mr. Hyron Joseph, Chief Ranger of the TCMP, extended gratitude to Mr. Silverstien.

According to Joseph, “The TCMP has been longing for persons like Mr. Silverstien to come forward and assist with the protection of the park’s resources.”

He appealed to other

Mr. Hyron Joseph, Chief Ranger of the TCMP (right), accepts donation from Mr. Allan Silverstein, President of Canouan Dive Centre. persons/stakeholders to follow in Mr. Silverstien’s footsteps and become guardians of the TCMP. There was also a commitment from Mr. Silverstein for four (4) sets of scuba gear which will

be presented to the Park Rangers later this month.

An invasive species of the lionfish was first discovered late last year in SVG. It poses a serious threat to marine life in this country.

V

38. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute

Eulogy for the late

Mildred E.E. De Riggs July 15, 1919 - April 02, 2012

SVG here we come

My father almost died in a vehicle accident and retired prematurely from the SHELL company as a result of his injuries, so he returned to his native land St. Vincent & the Grenadines, where all but two of the children returned. The eldest two, Gwen and Jan, stayed in Curacao, then Gwen joined us in St. Vincent for a while. We were fed with daily spiritual vitamins, so both morning and evening devotions were regular events in our home.

Besides being described as the best cook in the world by my father, ‘Maya’, as she was lovingly called, did not settle for being a full time housewife. She soon began taking music lessons, passing all levels and qualifying her to become a music teacher later in life. Only one daughter, Marijke, benefitted from her training, but all the other children were/are great singers. She played the piano and to a lesser extent the organ at the Kingstown Evangelical Church, paving the way for some of her students also to become well known musicians for several

churches in St. Vincent.

She also mastered the accordion which she played during open air crusades, and for the regular Friday Bible classes where children in the neighborhood were taught Christian values.

‘Maya’ never failed to ‘spare the rod’ during our upbringing, and every child ‘tasted’ the hand of our mother. You had to live straight, or you would be straightened by the belt or whip. I know it had to be frustrating for a mother with so many active children to contend with, each having his or her unique needs. Early in the game, she taught everyone to cook, wash and iron, skills that each one would benefit from in later years.

bus alone. She used these opportunities to visit relatives and Mildred ‘Maya’ De Riggs (extreme left) at a gathering of family friends who had migrated, and friends in her honour. turning up at combing her hair and the family, she would these friends or relatives always hesitate to return; sometimes un-announced, taking care of her nails.

Realizing that Maya she felt so at home with but was never turned back. She however, never could no longer travel all the children. She without restriction, the overstayed her welocme. would say, ‘I am not ready With age, we all tend to children decided to host several family reunions in to go yet,’ and would set slow down, whether we the time for her departure, SXM, where we could wish it or not, and her which we always granted. celebrate with her in active globe-trotting Events like that touched person. Just about a lifestyle was restricted; me. Who wants to be travel was only limited to month ago, we were here for what turned out to be separated from loved ones the Caribbean to witness our last family reunion … and that is the feeling weddings of her children with Maya. and grand children. most of us will experience I remember whenever Then in later years, here today, for we shall closer to her quiet passing, we brought her to never meet her in the she spent her years in St. Ebeneezer to meet and flesh again …. a reality Maarten (SXM), first socialize with the rest of we must all accept. living with Marijke and following that at the St. Globe-trotting Maarten’s home. A ‘Maya’ loved to travel, sincere Thanks to all the so when the children grew staff at the St. Maarten’s up and were gainfully home who lovingly cared employed, she saw a lot of for our mother in her the world as opportunity twilight years. Miss Indian Psychic availed itself. She Gladys and Miss Rebecca, travelled from down under her table companions for Helps with all Problems in Australia (with many years, thanks for frequent flier free miles) your friendship. While at Removes all Obstacles Call sister Linda for to Holland and UK, close the St. Maarten’s Home, ~ Evil and Negativity a Free Psychic Reading to the North Pole. She my sisters were more visited most Caribbean often than not present to Reunites Lovers 713-349-9117 islands and toured the US take care of any additional Never Fails. and Canada by Greyhound needs Mom may have had,

Psychic

The Secret to Incredibly Healthy Hair

IT IS VIRTUALLY an impossible task to condense 90 plus years into a 9-minute eulogy … but for a mother, anything is possible.

Mildred Elaine Elvina De Riggs nee Garcia was born in Trinidad, during the tumultuous aftermath of WW1. It is for that reason that no notice of her birth was recorded at the registry in Trinidad, until it became necessary for her to travel and get married many years after; but the official record from her passport has her date of birth as being July 15, 1919, putting her at approaching 93 at the point of her passing.

The economic depression that followed WW1 caused people from all over the Caribbean to migrate to other countries, in search of a better way of life. So my mother joined her mother in Curacao where she met my father who, under similar conditions, had left the teaching profession for a better way of life. They met in Curacao, and the rest is now history - a union that produced 8 children, 7 of whom are here today, thank God.

N’Seya Beauty Salon The choice is simple ... Simplicity

Braiding and Weaving Done by Appointment ONLY Located on 3rd Floor, Baynes Building (Blue Building) Contact number: 784-495-7246 /784-533-6229 Opening Hours : 9:00 a.m- 6:00 p.m

We specialize in all your Hair care needs

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2012. 39.

Classifieds

FOR RENT

FOR SALE

Fully furnished air conditioned 3-bedroom, 3 bathroom executive home with fenced yard at Golden Vale.

Tel: 485-6673/5328725

Land at Mount Pleasant, Mesopotamia going at very good price.

Tel: 456-7613/4571197

Rent per day furnished house, Stoney Grounds Tel: 457-2027 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom unfurnished apartment at Villa, walking distance to the beach, easy access to town, parking available Tel: 570-0514 Executive (shared) apartment, 1-3 bedrooms & en-suite bathrooms at Harmony Hall Call Leytisha Jack 430-8643

Land at Mt. Pleasant, Mesopotamia Contact: 456-7613/457-1197 2-ton truck Contact no: 453-8507 Deep freezer fridge & 5 pcs dining table set Call: 526-8618

Discount Outlet Store Middle St. upstairs Avanash Boutique Bloo Building Tel: 492-7579

US funding for RSS Training and Vetting On Monday, April 30, 2012, Charge d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy Christopher Sandrolini and Regional Security Coordinator Grantley Watson signed an amended letter of agreement between the United States and the Regional Security System (RSS) providing the Eastern Caribbean with US$286,000 in new funding for the RSS training and vetting missions.

The United States committed US$186,000 to support the RSS training mission to upgrade the skills and capabilities of law enforcement and defense personnel of RSS member nations. This new funding is part of the United States’ ongoing commitment to support the RSS training mission.

The United States is also providing

US$100,000 in funding for a new initiative to assist the RSS regional vetting programme.

This programme seeks to insure the integrity of member nation law enforcement and defense personnel, to promote the free flow of information among member states in combating transnational crime.

To date, the United States has provided more than US$100,000 in funding for contract polygraph examiners to vet member nation law enforcement and defense personnel with access to sensitive and classified information.

In this exciting new initiative, the United States will provide full funding for up to four members of the RSS staff to become trained to internationallyaccepted standards as polygraph examiners.

One of the four staff members will have the opportunity to undertake advanced training to achieve certification as a master trainer of polygraph examiners. In this way, the member nations of the RSS will have their own indigenous vetting capability and the means to sustain that capability by training future examiners right here in the Eastern Caribbean.

With this additional US$ 286,000 in new funding, the United States has committed well over US$ 23 million in support of the RSS since 1999.

This new funding is made possible by President Obama’s Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), which has provided more than US$143 million to the Caribbean since 2009.

CBSI is a partnership

President Barack Obama’s CBSI has provided millions in assistance for regional security training and equipment. between the United States and the countries of the Caribbean under which they have agreed to share the responsibility for implementing the common vision for a safer, more prosperous Caribbean region.

Under CBSI the United States and the Caribbean territories concerned have pledged to seek durable security solutions through sustainable programmes over which the Caribbean countries take eventual ownership.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

MAY 11, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 19

HEAVY RAINS POUND NORTH WINDWARD

A.I. REAL ESTATE Biabou Residential Property on 24,630 sq.ft. -$260,000.00 - H910 Calder Ridge 4 bedrm Property on 10,438 sq.ft. - $529,605.00 - H902 Largo Height 5 bedrm Property on 5,173 sq.ft. - $232,500.00 H699

Other listings are available Phone: 457-2087 Fax: 457-1382 Toll Free (USA): 866-978-0951 718-732-0545 Email: donp@vincysurf.com Website: www.aisvg.com

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

The water level in this river rose, covering the bridge and making access difficult.

by KENVILLE HORNE WHILE MOST communities in the south of mainland St. Vincent were treated to light showers and generally fair weather, heavy rains pounded the North Windward constituency on Tuesday 8th May. The downpour and its resulting flash floods forced vehicles and commuters heading for the city to curtail their trips.

The rain and flash floods destroyed infrastructure and farms in Sandy Bay, and left large deposits of dirt and other sediments in other communities.

When THE VINCENTIAN caught up with residents in Sandy Bay, many expressed concern about the destruction and dislocation the rain had caused. “Schools bin have to close, landslide come down, road wash way, fo de whole week rain a come like it na want fo stop, it real bad,� one resident commented.

Persons were seen well into the evening of Tuesday clearing roads, cleaning public walkways and entrances to public buildings and private residences.

THE VINCENTIAN was told that many farmers had left, during a break in the rains, to visit their farms to assess the damage. No contact was made with any of these farmers before THE VINCENTIAN left the area.

Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, also visited the area to get a first hand view of the damage.

Road surfaces suffered much damage.

Debris settled along public pathways.

Damage to this embankment could cause the retaining wall to collapse.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.