GECCU ROBBERY SUSPECTS AWAIT BAIL REVIEW
By HAYDN HUGGINS
FOUR MEN AND ONE WOMAN WILL RETURNto the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, July 29 for bail review, on six charges in connection with the July 16 botched robbery of the South Rivers branch of the Government Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU).
The five are: Erasto Da Silva, 26-year-old bartender of Canouan; Esroy ‘Pirate’ Jeffers, 28, of Buccament; Lemar ‘Chak’ Isaacs, 22, of McKie’s Hill; Sharome Dopwell, 21, of Paul’s Avenue; and lone female, Rakiesha ‘Bim Bim’ Joseph, 24, of Layou.
They are jointly charged with robbing Charissa Pitt of Georgetown of a purse with her personal belongings, valued at EC$250.00.
Pitt is said to be the administrative clerk at the
GECCU, South Rivers branch.
They are also jointly charged with: the attempted murder of Police Constable Joron Samuel, by shooting at him; possession of a firearm to aid in the commissioner of an offense, to wit, robbery; possession of a 9 mm pistol, without a license; possession of eight rounds of ammunition without license; damaging two metal and glass doors, valued EC$2,800, one deadbolt lock valued EC$270, and one skylight valued at EC$300, the property of GECCU.
The defendants were not required to plea to the charges when they appeared before Senior Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offenses Court on Friday, July 19, as they were l aid indictably.
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Eradto Da Silva – 26 years old
Esroy ‘Pirate Jeffers – 28 years old
Sharome Dopwell – 21 years old
Lemar ‘Chak’ Isaacs – 22 years old
Rakiesha ‘Bim Bim’ Joseph – 24 years old
Police Music Programme: Best of the Summer
Old Montrose, described the Programme as “one of our crime fighting measures.”
Miller pointed to music as being the “universal language,” and of it “touching the depths of our souls.”
He called on the student participants to “embrace the experience,” and to look at it as “your chance to grow as musicians.”
AND SUPERINTENDENT Of Police Junior Simmons, who heads the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the Royal SVG Police Force, made it clear that his institution offered the “best and biggest,” as it related to Summer events for young people.
He made the comment at the opening of the Police Band Summer Camp and added this reference to the SVG Coast Guard Programme, and the Police Youth Camp, as practical ways through which the Police Force was reaching out to young people.
But last Tuesday was an occasion to focus on the Police Band Programme and Inspector Vaughn Miller, Band Master, in his address to the opening ceremony at the Police Band Room at
Turning his attention to the parents, he beckoned them to make music as much a part of their children’s lives as they make academics.
“People become more rounded individuals” once they have that background in music, Miller posited.
Miller admitted that five weeks — the duration of the programme“cannot make a musician,” and he urged parents to facilitate follow-up exercises (in music) for their children, and noted that music will be added to the curriculum at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College..
Participants in the Summer Programme will be exposed to the rudiments of playing a range of instruments including: trumpet, trombone, saxophone, clarinet, keyboard, bass guitar, rhythm guitar,
recorder, and drums.
Commissioner of Police (Ag) Enville Williams is pleased that parents have enrolled their children in the programme. He expressed the conviction that learning to play an instrument “opens up your creative thinking,” and felt assured that participants will be exposed to skills which he contended, “will serve you well in life.”
If there is a living example of the programme’s impact, Corporal Serrano Hunte bears that testimony.
He enlisted in the Police Band Summer Programme in 2012, was identified as one suited for police duty and was drafted into the Police Band.
Hunte not only became an active member of the Police Band but took the time to successfully pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of Trinidad and Tobago.
He was present at last Tuesday’s ceremony and entertained with a rendition of the standard, ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’, on the soprano saxophone.
Tuesday’s ceremony also saw 100 chairs handed over by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Friendship Cooperation to the Royal SVG Police Force Band. Sir Louis Straker and Dr. Mineva Glasgow, two members of that organization, made the donation.KWA)
Music should be given equal attention
JOY HAYNES, PRINCIPAl of the Barrouallie Government School has called for music to be given equal attention on the school curriculum, as any other subject.
Haynes made the appeal when delivering the feature address at the opening of the 16th Police Band Summer Programme, held at the Old Montrose Police Station last Tuesday, July 23.
She described music as a “stress reliever… food for the soul,” and said that It “builds self-esteem, and prepares you for the job market.”
When it comes to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Band, Joy has an enduring connection. Her husband, Bernard, was Band Master up to the time of his retirement from the Royal SVG Police Force.
Joy, who has plans to expand the music progamme at her school and has earmarked her husband to assist with that activity, noted the demand for places at the Police Band Summer Programme.
In that light, she told those who enlisted to “count it a privilege” for having been selected for a place, and urged them “not to waste time,” and to be “focused, eager to learn,
punctual, and regular.”
She advised the participants to “believe in yourself,” reminded them “nothing good comes easily,” and expressed the hope that they would “let this session make a positive impact on your life.
This year’s Summer Progamme is themed ‘Harnessing young minds during summer time’.
About 100 students are taking part in the exercise, slated to run for five weeks. (KWA)
Inspector Vaughn Miller, Band Master, spoke to the participants about music being the ‘universal language’.
Some of the participants and invited guests at last Tuesday’s event.
Cpl. Serrano Hunte – doing his rendition and bearing testimony to the impact of the Programme.
Feature Speaker – Joy Haynes, and her husband, at last Tuesday’s opening to the 2024 Police Band Summer Programme.
V News 3
RSS graduates 26
GECCU robbery suspects await bail review
Continued from front page
Objections to bail
IN OBJECTING TO BAIL, Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the police were still conducting investigations involving what he termed serious allegations. He noted that two or more firearms were allegedly used, but to date, only one was recovered.
Cato said that the police were fearful that if the defendants were granted bail, they would hinder or obstruct the investigations. He asked that they be remanded for one week to allow the police time to complete their investigations.
Defence rebuts
But attorney Grant Connell, representing Dopwell, Isaacs, and Jeffers, made an application for bail on behalf of all five defendants, as Joseph and Da Silva were unrepresented. Connell agreed that the allegations were serious, but added that offenses were “bailable” offenses, and the reasons given by Cato were not grounds for objection to bail. He questioned whether the investigations would be completed in one week, as an investigation is an ongoing process. He noted that there was no charge before the Court for discharging a firearm, but questioned whether there has to be physical possession of a firearm to bring a gun-related charge. He further contended that the
Prosecutor did not say whether the defendants were flight risks, had sufficient ties to this jurisdiction, or could find a suitable surety.
Connell pointed out that Dopwell suffered a broken right hand, a chop to the head, and a cut on his foot. He said Dopwell saw a doctor and was told to come back in three or four days.
However, as Connell proceeded to speak more about Dopwell’s injuries, the prosecutor rebutted sharply saying that Connell should not be allowed to address the Court on how Dopwell got the injuries.
“He (Dopwell) is in excruciating pain”, Connell responded, adding that there were no charges before the Court in connection with the loss of blood, or loss of life.
“The defendants suffered serious injuries on the charges before the Court. I don’t know if the prison would accept him (Dopwell). He is in dire need to see a doctor”, Connell said, and pointed out, “There is a reason why we have a legal system. This is not the wild, wild west”.
The lawyer added there was no charge before the Court for murder or manslaughter, and the offense with which the defendants are charged does not automatically block the granting of bail.
He made it clear, “I am dealing with the law, nothing else. I don’t
DEMONSTRATING ITS COMMITMENTto excellence in training, the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, through its Coast Guard Service branch, proudly announces the successful completion of the RSS Basic Seamanship Course 2024.
This rigorous fiveweek foundation training, held from June 10 to July 12, 2024, saw 26 graduates achieving an impressive overall average of 84.5%. The program, designed to equip coast guard personnel with essential maritime law enforcement skills, covered a wide range of topics, including knots and splices, boarding techniques and procedures, first aid, basic engineering troubleshooting, nautical terminology, ship husbandry, and navigation etc.
that the training prepares them for the tasks at hand and equips them with the necessary tools to perform their duties effectively. He noted the intensity and methodological nature of the course, reminding the graduates to put everything they have learned into practice. He stressed that failing to do so would not only be a personal failure but also a failure to the nation and the region. He concluded by reassuring that the country’s national security is on solid ground, thanks to the training the personnel received.
make the law, I don’t break the law. I am just a practitioner of the law”.
Magistrate rules
After listening to both sides, Senior Magistrate Colin John remanded the five until next Monday when the issue of bail would be reviewed.
John, however, ordered that those defendants who are alleged to have received injuries, receive medical attention.
A police release dated July 22, stated that around 3:05 p.m. on July 16 armed masked bandits entered the GECCU building at South Rivers.
According to the release, while in the building they encountered the prompt action of the police. The suspects fired shots at the police, who returned fire. The assailants fled but were later apprehended with the help of vigilant community members.
(SEE RELATED STORY ON PAGE 4 )
The training was spearheaded by Commander (Ag) of the SVG Coast Guard Services, Mr. Deon Henry, who expressed his gratitude to the lecturers and support staff for their dedication in making the RSS Basic Seamanship Course 2024 a success. Commander Henry emphasized that the course provided the personnel with the fundamentals of coast guard duties and seamanship, noting that 26 of the trained personnel have met these objectives, and highlighted that this batch represents the largest group of coast guard personnel to be trained in the basic seamanship course, including 11 coast guard auxiliaries. He encouraged the graduates to let integrity, loyalty, discipline, teamwork, respect, and devotion to duty be their guiding principles as they embark on their journey as coast guard officers.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Frankie Joseph underscored the importance of the training, stating that as law enforcement officers, one must possess the ability and motivation to do the job. He remarked
Lt. Commander Rolrick Sobers, Regional Maritime Officer of the Regional Security System, described the course as a significant launch pad in maritime law enforcement. He wished the graduates continued success in their careers and emphasized the evolving nature of maritime law enforcement. Lt. Commander Sobers encouraged the graduates to stay ahead of the curve and to grow into the changes they wish to see in maritime enforcement. He reminded them that they would face various tests in their duties and must always produce work of the highest standard. He left them with pointed advice: “work hard, play hard, but most importantly, do your job.”
The RSS Basic Seamanship Course is a foundational maritime law enforcement training program offered by the RSS Training Institute and facilitated by local instructors from the SVG Coast Guard Service. It aims to prepare coast guard personnel to effectively perform their duties in ensuring maritime safety and security. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical hands-on exercises, providing a comprehensive educational experience that is crucial for the professional development of maritime law enforcement officers.
RSS Basic Seamanship Course 2024, pose with high-ranking officers of the RSVGPF, Coast Guard and Course Facilitators.
Radio host, fisherman on cross-complaint charges
Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS
RADIO PERSONALITY, talk
show host and popular DJ
Christopher ‘Too Cool
Chris’ Jones and 31-year-
Kevin Patterson, with the aid of a crutch, seen her leaving the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court after he was presented to the court in the afternoon.
old fisherman Kevin Patterson of Lodge Village, both appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, Wednesday on charges in connection with inflicting injuries on each other.
Jones, a licensed firearm holder, made his appearance in the morning after being charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Patterson with an incident in the vicinity of the Financial Complex, Kingstown around 8:30pm July 4, during which Patterson is reported to have received gunshot wounds to the left hip, left hand and right leg.
Patterson, who appeared in the same Court around 2:30 p.m. that day is charged with, that on July 4, he assaulting Jones, causing him bodily harm. He is reported to have struck
Jones on his left arm with a bottle.
Both men pleaded not guilty to their respective charges.
On Jones’ appearance, Prosecutor Aliston Stapleton indicated that the defendant was on station bail, and asked that it be continued.
He told the court that the Prosecution intended to call about 12 witnesses and that the file would be completed in three weeks.
When Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie asked him whether the Prosecution was expected to get more witnesses in those three weeks, Stapleton replied in the affirmative.
However, as the Magistrate was considering a date for disclosure, Grant Connell, Jones’ attorney, told the Court that his client was arrested on
the job (i.e. while on live radio) on Tuesday, and taken to the Central Police Station and charged, but the case file had not yet reached the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Connell said that Jones had made a report to the police against Patterson, but there was no cross-complaint before the Court.
He posited that the investigator cannot be blamed, adding that, “Sometimes instructions from the hierarchy overrides commonsense”, and stressed, “The file incomplete”.
The Senior Magistrate contended that, if the investigation in relation to the cross-complaint was not complete, it (file) cannot reach the DPP.
Stapleton asked that Jones have no contact with the complainant as
a condition of bail, but Connell said that would be prejudicial since Jones had also made a report against Jones.
The matter was adjourned to September 6 for a report.
Meanwhile, station bail will continue for Jones.
However, by that afternoon, Patterson, who was unrepresented, was taken before the Court to answer his charge. He was granted $1,500 bail with one surety.
He was also slated to return to Court on September 6 when the Court is expected to receive a report on the readiness of the matter.
When Patterson was sitting in the prisoners’ area, awaiting the commencement of the afternoon session of the court, he was heard saying, “You come and tell me I charge and I
Charges laid in two murder cases
A 21-year-old Montrose man will return to the Serious Offenses Court on September 9 in connection with the death of a 26-year-old Layou resident, on November 18, 2023.
Olan Michael Lyscott, also known as ‘Metal’, has been charged with the murder of Leon Gaymes who was shot several times at his home at Texier Road, Layou, shortly after 8 p.m.
Gaymes was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Lyscott was not required to plea when he stood before Senior Magistrate Colin John, at the Serious Offenses Court, and was remanded.
Readers might recall that Leon Gaymes’ brother, Joveka Gaymes, was shot multiple times on the night of Deember 02, 2023, wile walking through the old cemetery in Layou. A police report said then that Joveka was accosted by a single assailant.
Previous to that shooting, Leon and Joveka, the records show, were detained, questioned and
Sixth person charged in GECCU robbery
A SIXTHperson has been charged in connection with the July 16 robbery at the Government Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU).
Enrique John, a 27-year-old unemployed man of Layou, appeared at the Serious Offenses Court, on Wednesday on charges of robbery, attempted murder, firearm, and ammunition possession, using a firearm in the commission of a robbery, attempted murder, and damage to property.
John is charged jointly with Erasto Da Silva, 26year-old bartender of Canouan, Lemar ‘Chalk’ Isaacs, 22, of McKie’s Hill, Esroy ‘Pirate’ Jeffers, 28, of Buccament, Sharome Dopwell, 21, of Pauls Avenue, and the lone female Rakiesha Joseph of Layou.
Da Silva, Isaacs, Jeffers, Dopwell and Joseph had appeared at the Serious Offenses Court on Wednesday before Senior Magistrate Colin John and were remanded until Monday, July 29 for bail review.
However, when John, who was represented by attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, appeared in that Court on Wednesday, Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the defendant had been granted
station bail to return to the police station, and he complied, so it would be difficult for him to object to bail, on the same grounds, at this time.
There being no objection to bail, the Court granted John bail in the sum of $25,000 with one surety. He is slated to return to Court next Monday.
Enrique John appeared in court five days after his alleged cohorts made their first appearance in Court.
THE VINCENTIAN understands that John had been granted station bail to return to the police station because the time stipulated, by law, for someone to remain in custody, without being charged, was almost up.
John obeyed the instructions, and when he returned to the police station, he was charged and taken to Court on Wednesday.
John is reported to be the driver of the vehicle allegedly involved in the robbery.
Christopher Jones’ early and separate appearance in court may have caused the authorites to have the matter properly presented in court.
ain’t do nothing, I ain’t do nothing. They come and charge me for nothing at all. The man come and shoot me so”. Patterson had told the court earlier that he did not know Jones, he only heard of him. Jones is the main anchor of Hot FM’s popular Morning Programme, AM Mayhem.
released in connection with the shooting death of Tambu Patrick on Niovember 5, 2023 in layout.
And the police here reported that they arrested and charged a second person for murder, this time in connection with the September 7, 2023, shooting death of a construction worker at Buccament Bay.
On Friday, July 19, Orande ‘Bells’ Dunbar, a 37year-old Rillan Hill resident, appeared at the Serious Offense Court in connection with the incident, about six months after the other suspect Romano ‘Russian’ Andrews had made his appearance.
Dunbar has been charged with the murder of Jervany Baptiste, 28, of Rose Place, who was gunned down close to 8 a.m., as he made his way to work at a construction site at Buccament Bay.
Dunbar was not required to plead when he stood before Senior Magistrate Colin John and was remanded. He will return to Court on September 9. His co-accused, Romano Andrews of Diamond had appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on January 4, after being charged with Baptiste’s murder.
The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Serious Offenses Court where the Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) will be heard.
Orande ‘Bells’ Dunbar is the brother of Schemel ‘Jacket’ Dunbar who is currently serving a sentence of life in prison, having been found guilty along with Kendine “Hoodie” Douglas and Richard “Carib” Francis, for the May 4, 2017 murders of brother Danroy Cozier, a 26-year-old police constable, and Nicholas Cozier.
Orande ‘Bells’ Dunbar (left) and Olan Michael Lyscott on their way to remand.
V
Time for stricter building codes
Montgomey Daniel, Minister of Works, etc., levelled some criticism on those who continue to pay little or no regard to building regulations here.
THE BUILDING REGULATIONS
which were established in 2008 provide the relevant guidelines for the construction of homes in the country.
However, the unauthorized or informal human settlements and the insistence by some to use cheaper building material including galvanize pose a challenge to the Physical Planning Office.
This was the response from Montgomery Daniel, Minister of Transport, Works, Lands and Physical Planning to the question from Opposition Parliamentarian, Daniel Cummings.
During the July 18 Meeting of the House, Cummings asked Daniel to indicate what mechanisms were in place to ensure that galvanized sheets imported met the standards and if there was any consideration being given to revise the building codes.
This is in the wake of the passage of Hurricane Beryl which tore roofs off houses throughout the country and caused major damage to the housing stock in the country.
Daniel, in his response said that some homeowners complied with the guidelines, while others did not. “Hence the construction of poor homes,” he said.
“The Physical Planning Department in its service delivery has been fighting this battle continuously to ensure safe homes all across St Vincent and the Grenadines,” Daniel continued.
The Physical Planning Office has been enforcing building regulations that require structures to be designed to withstand wind
speeds of up to 111 miles per hour, the same as a Category 3 Hurricane.
Also, established building regulations state that the minimum thickness prescribed for galvanize to be used on roofs was 24 gauge, or 0.70mm.
But, according to the Housing Minister, there was a lighter gauge of galvanize available — 25 gauge (0.62mm) and 26 gauge (0.54mm). This, he described as a cheaper option to consumer but was a detriment to the homeowners, especially in times of crisis.
The issue was worse with informal settlements, he said, where substandard building materials were used.
And with systems packing winds close to 150 mph, such as Hurricane Beryl, roofs in those settlement would have been easily blown away and homes flattened.
“The Physical
Planning Department believes that the time has come for urgent and immediate discussion to be held with the Bureau of Standards, the suppliers, the consumer protection agency and all relevant stakeholders to stop the production and use of such substandard material in the building industry, thereby making homes safer for all,” Daniel said.
In 2023, a new building code was approved for the use
by CARICOM countries where the building code was intended to provide guidelines for the construction of buildings that would be resilient in the wake of Category 5 Hurricanes.
“There are increased climate change events, he said and with its negative impact on small island states there was the need for strong and sturdy homes to withstand hurricanes at a higher wind speed,” he said. (DD)
This was a common site right across the Southern Grenadines after the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
Work begins to save Salt Whistle Bay
RESOURCES amounting to EC$2.1 million have been included in the approved Supplementary Budget for conservation work to begin at Salt Whistle Bay in Mayreau.
According to Senator Banarva Browne, Minister of Urban Development, Energy, Seaports, Grenadine Affairs and Local Government, this sum is to carry out the necessary work and services that were immediately needed following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, July 01, 2024.
ier this month.
She was at the time responding to a question during the July 18 Sitting of the House posed by Parliamentary Representative for the Southern Grenadines, Terrence Ollivierre who asked about what steps were being taken to protect Salt Whistle Bay.
And according to Browne, the passage of Beryl caused sand erosion which resulted in a gap measuring between 80 and 100 feet wide and at a depth of four feet.
“In light of the changes to the Bay, the government will embark on studies to ensure a permanent feasible and climate resilient solution is developed and implemented for this vital asset,” she told members of Parliament.
To date, the company K Electric has mobilized equipment and material to begin work on the temporary emergency solution which include the strategic placement of boulders to prevent the further deepening and widening of the channel that has since developed which according to Browne, now divides Mayreau into two separate islands.
Erosion at Salt Whistle Bay has been an issue for some time and the Senator explained that in 2020 K Electric was awarded a contract amounting to
EC$480,000 to place temporary boulders to the shoreline to protect areas until a more feasible, permanent solution could be developed.
The solution, she explained, had to consider the physical, social and environmental conditions of the site.
“And various stakeholders to deliver a resilient shoreline stabilization measure,” she said.
Accordingly, Smith Warner International Limited was contracted in 2021 to carry out the coastal process investigations and to prepare engineering designs for structural and nonstructural mitigation measures for the site.
Senator Banarva Browne told the parliament that Hurricane Beryl put spend to the orginal plan for structural and non-structural mitigation measures at Salt Whistle Bay.
This resulted in a recommendation which would have amounted to EC$5.8 million and which included the construction of a retaining wall on top of the existing wall which would provide a defence and boast a 3-metre boardwalk and vegetation linear access along the shore, Browne explained.
Unfortunately, before this could have been implemented, the island was impacted by Hurricane Beryl.
In recognition of the cultural and economic
importance of Salt Whistle Bay, the government was moving swiftly to preserve the integrity of the beach.
The reality of the situation, according to Senator Browne, was that if the recommended solution was not delivered in a timely manner, the consistent battering of the shoreline over time, or another storm could cause almost irreversible damage.
“And this is what we are trying to avert,” she said. (DD)
Salt Whistle Bay, Mayreau, is deemed to be one of the mosy beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and is a favourite with ‘yachties’ from across the globe.
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
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Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Crime fighting –are we serious?
IT IS EASY AFTER ANALYZINGthe government’s response, if any, to spikes in crime, especially violent crime to include murder, to conclude that those responses have been not far from being empty, without any real assurance and definitely not confidence-building.
In all of this, if nothing prevails amidst cries from a population, moreso our senior citizens, that speaks of a not-far-from-being traumatized people.
The recent daylight armed attempted robbery of a Credit Union, among the perpetrators being a female, and the spraying of bullets into a community in the heart of capital Kingstown are just two events that call into question the response of the state machinery to the spiraling crime, and the need to offer some level of assurance to our senior citizens especially, that the country they toiled to build is still welcoming and thankful to them.
All taken, is it fair to say that we must dig deeper and further analyse what has actually been done, for the government will tell you that it has taken or encouraged measures to combat crime here?
The two recent incidents referenced, however, do not encourage a need for more in depth analysis since they show repetition of familiar non-action by the National Security Ministry, even in the face of measures to ‘take the guns off the street’ by offering an amnesty for those who are prepared to turn in unlicensed firearms, and an occasional raid here and there, What we hear more often, is blame accorded the USA, and rightfully so if the truth be told, as being the source and perpetrator of the movement of guns — firearms of alarmingly destructive capacity - into our multiisland, porous border state.
So, while on the one hand the authorities encourage the acquisition of licensed firearms by business people and persons who can be described as the ‘propertied class’, there is no concerted, focused effort aimed at the real concern which is criminals easily getting as many guns as they want. What we have to guard against is creating unnecessary hysteria around the measures like a gun amnesty since this could well be interpreted as a government doing nothing. Should we not be increasing our focus and resources on clamping down on those
Climate Change and the Environment (Pt. 2)
who criminals who laugh at an amnesty, while they retain their firearms and even find it easy to acquire new ones since for them, it is important that they be ready to meet whatever resistance or static that obtains within their world.
This isn’t the only way, i.e. the nonexistence of real action against their operations — that criminals and criminal activity are being encouraged.
We all know how things work in this country. We are too small to hide everything under the proverbial bushel and too ‘talkative’ a people to keep secrets.
We would not want to say that nothing happens in this country without those in important offices being aware. But more and more we see the fingerprints of importance on mattes as they progress through the justice system here.
Surely, the police, the government understand how their non-actions might be interpreted. We shudder to think that our politics and our criminals will one day show a marriage of convenience that has shaped Jamaica’s society.
For certain, our citizens will begin to fight back in the absence of any real national plan to combat crime. What will government do then?
It will be worse if measures are taken to tie the hands of a disgruntled citizenship when government and police have watched this eventuality develop while not putting to work real, unbiased and consistent use of their intelligence system and processes.
The big questions in the face of the spiraling crime in our midst is: Does government care about fighting crime? Is having citizens living in perpetual terror part of their governance strategy?
To be truthful, there are areas that feed into this crime problem to which we must pay heed, e.g. the state of the economy, the state of young men from disadvantaged communities, an education revolution that just might have failed a large percentage of our young men especially, a sense of hopelessness and lack of equal opportunity,
Whatever the reality, we must remember that crime does not affect those with police/state protection. It’s the population who is left “to ketch
IF WE SPEND SOME TIME listening to the world’s experts on Climate Change, we could begin to feel overwhelmed by everything they say we need to do or get done in the next twenty years. Some of the suggestions are hard to visualize; for example, what does keeping the average increase in temperature at or below 1.5 degrees Celsius mean? Or what does the sea level rising about 10-12 inches in the next 20 years mean to you and me? Equally as confusing are the solutions proposed by the world’s developed countries.
What I can say as an average person is that every year seems hotter than the year before, and the number of hurricanes each year seems higher, and they certainly seem to do more damage than in earlier years.
So, I suggest we focus on what we can accomplish as a nation. We must secure a reliable source of water. We must build on the work already started on sea defense along the Windward coast. We must develop an alternative source of energy. We must adopt new building standards, including requiring new buildings in Kingstown and other low-lying areas to be elevated at least another foot above street level. We must reimagine many current business practices to do these things as a nation.
I recently read that the CWSA is exploring new water sources by adding wells to the system. I can only wish them well and hope we find enough groundwater to augment the supply during the dry seasons. I have my doubts, but I am willing to hope for the best because I know the alternative is super expensive.
Parallel to this effort, we must also begin to investigate alternative strategies. We must increase our water supply, improve our infrastructure and delivery systems, and public education. We need to start examining affordable desalination plants. We must expand bulk water supply storage, better water allocation, and more demand reduction measures.
I will tell you a story; I have lived in a desert (Phoenix, Arizona) for
twenty-eight years, where the average rainfall is 7-8 inches per year. In some cities in Arizona, the average monthly water consumption per person per month is about 123 gallons per day. This is considered high, and the targeted average water consumption per person is 80 to 90 gallons. I used less than 50 gallons daily as a Vincentian in the desert without trying to conserve water use. Just imagine what I could do if I tried to be conscious about conserving water.
Why did I tell you this story? I did because I will tell you we can produce enough water year-round to satisfy our needs. However, to do so, we must make some changes in our behavior, and the CWSA must make some investments in our system. So, let’s help them help us by doing our part.
To begin with, we need more storage facilities throughout the country. To do so, we will also need to add some water treatment equipment along the way. This will be expensive, so as consumers we must be willing to pay a little more for the water we consume. CWSA needs to consider a tier billing system to incentivize water conservation. Another reason I hope we find enough production wells that will not interrupt our surface water flows, is that I look forward to the day when we will begin to use some of our other rivers and streams to provide irrigation for the farmers.
You see, my friends, surviving Climate Change will only matter if we can reduce our food import bill and seriously return to a point where agriculture remains a significant part of our economy. We need to find ways to enhance food production yearround. To do so, we need to consider an integrated irrigation system into this process. By the way, we need to resist the genetically modified food crops that the industrial nations will provide to appease their conscience.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Diabolical leaders
I BELIEVEthat corrupt leaders feel no shame, empathy, or guilt when inflicting pain on the people they swore to serve and protect with honesty and integrity. This means they are cold-blooded, callous and wicked, and wouldn’t hesitate to unleash their wrath on those who dare to correct them.
A corrupt leader hates to be criticized, rebuked, or repudiated, even when they commit perjury or exploit the state because they are in a position to do so. These voracious sharks are set on tearing apart anyone who might expose their darkest
secrets to the masses who blindly believe in them.
Diabolical leaders are filled with wrath, vengeance, and cruelty, seeing themselves as flawless and as gods ruling over the clueless masses. They enact burdensome laws that they themselves wouldn’t live by and will not budge to repeal or change these draconian laws.
These calculated murderers have twisted right and wrong. Yet, Church leaders tell us to submit to the state’s criminals. But when I analyze our situation, why should I obey rogue
ÂBigging
upÊ the police
Mr. Editor, you see why this is my favourite newspaper?
Last week, none of the other newspapers thought it a good idea to give coverage that would zero in on a good job done by our police. Only this newspaper sought to highlight the good work by our police officers in foiling that attempted robbery at South Rivers.
And you even led with a headline that indicated from the outset what you and Haydn Huggins intended to do.
This is good PR for the police, and I hope the Commissioner and
all the officers of the Royal SVG Police Force realise what you have done for them. Kudos to Haydn Huggins and you, Mr. Editor.
It is always good when our police can get this time of recognition, since most of the time they come in for much criticism from the general public. Of course, they are at times deserving of the criticism, but when they do good, we should say that they do.
Charles, Edinboro
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* Where (schools) are we going to put those 400 students from the Grenadines?
* Wouldn’t it have been a better option to =use this break and the summer break to build temporary schools (like the pones at the E. T. Joshua airport) in Canouan and Union Island?
* Are government registered/licensed vehicles entitled to certain privileges on the road or is it that the drivers feel they are ‘entitled drivers’ and can do what they please, where they please and when they please, like waiting and parking?
* When overseas organizations send in material/relief items for specific organisations, communities and individuals, and have to pass them on to NEMO, who ensures that those materials/items get to their rightful recipients?
* Is this going to be ‘the giveaway season’ leading up to the general elections?
* Was the protocol as it relates to our parliament recently breached during a visit to parliament by the Head of the World Food Programme? Why wasn’t the Speaker of the House the one to introduce the WFP Head to the Members of parliament? Is the Speaker of the House not the person in charge of parliament through whom all mattes and visitors must pass?
leaders who perpetuate crimes and corrupt justice? Why should a rebel play the passive fool? Why should a rebel abandon ideals that strive for the betterment of society? Why should someone who adheres to a moral compass drift aimlessly into a port of inequality and contradiction? Such a tragedy would be grievous.
Corrupt Leaders have mastered the art of showmanship. Corrupt leaders know how to put on a good act whenever the masses suffer. They may shed tears in times of crisis, but those are crocodile tears. As I said before, they are cold, calculated murderers without a drop of empathy.
Carden A. Michael
The UK, England and Great Britain UNCENSORED!!!
I FOUNDthis information on Facebook and thought I would share it with the folks I have in my directory. I hope you will find it useful and share it with your readers.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UK, ENGLAND, GREAT BRITAIN.
“Some people and indeed all over the world, including well-travelled, often confuse England, United Kingdom and Great Britain.
England is a country just like Ghana and its capital is London just like Accra is the capital of Ghana.
Great Britain is a collection of 3 countries which came together as one country and has its capital as London. Those 3 countries are: England, Scotland and Wales.
When you include Northern Ireland to these 3 countries, they become United Kingdom (Union of four nations), i.e.: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
That is why it is referred to as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Collectively, the four are taken as one country. And when this is the case, London is its capital.
Note, however, that these four individual nations all have their own respective capitals. Accordingly, the capital of Scotland is Edinburgh; Wales is Cardiff; Northern Ireland is Belfast; England is London”.
Paul, Jamaica.
Editor’s Note: We apologise if any of the language used in this poem makes any of our readers uncomfortable. We have printed it as it is written…. Without editing or abridging, in respect of the writer’s right to poetic liberty.
U call me an asshole, And I agree ….
Because that’s the way I was created to be !
Everyone can’t be an eye, hand or mouth, So, getting rid of shit Is what I’m ALL about.
But what is the role Of an asshole ???
Isn’t it to get rid of shit … ?
D head can’t say to the foot, I betta dan u; B’caz foot will say, u c’yan move without me.
Mout c’yan say to eye, I betta dan u, Caz eye will say to mout, if I don’t see what u r eating,
U will swallow shit !
One day good looks & brains said to asshole, Y u always smell stink ?
Caz I want to be cleaned daily to avoid offending nose, Anus replied with a wink.
EmbarASSed, asshole decides to malfunction, and after one day,
Brains says, ‘despite my unction, I just c’yan function’, … while good looks, tun ugly looks.
Intestines had the guts to ask colon ‘Y d hell asshole stop working Caz eventually u will die too, From too much too too’.
So sensible asshole, took d enema And the entire body breathed a fart of relief.
First to apologize was good looks, followed by brain And all d other parts agreed That asshole was d most important part of the body train, … Caz it gets rid of toxic waste !
So u call me an ASS-whole, well I agree, … Caz I get rid of SHIT !!
This SOCIETY now needs an ASSHOLE to run it, As too much shit going on !!!
Donald De Riggs
New building code, action on crime
WITH ALL THAT we know about climate change and its global impact, now is the time to embark on a comprehensive weatherdefensive building code. Just re-covering house roofs with galvanize would remain a hazard. Rabacca sand and water are in abundance. Yes, rebuild Union Island with wall roofs and tanks. Also, a proper water catchment system should be created to help ease the water problems in the dry periods.
The problem of crime is overdue to be solved. Since 2001 the PM Gonsalves-led government has been paid to be “tough on crime and the causes of crime”. We are rated globally as the second in murder rating.
As citizens, we need to call on the Prime Minister to give us a paper on “the causes of crime” and let us all work together to be “tough on crime”. Too many people are afraid to go out to night church.
Together now???
If the two political leaders can’t bring us as citizens together to work as one, then we need to read Psalm 133, put those words together into action, and establish the preamble of our constitution. One God one people.
Christian Democrat
Progress on relief, recovery, and reconstruction
Part One
TODAY, July 24, 2024, just over three weeks since Hurricane beryl delivered devastation and destruction to SVG, particularly in the Southern Grenadines, but also on Bequia and St. Vincent, remarkable progress has been made, thus far, in the process of relief, recovery, and reconstruction, the discrete yet overlapping phases of turning the terrible setback into a sustainable advance.
Supplementary estimates and Supplementary Appropriation Bill
On July 18th and 19th, 2024, the House of Assembly debated and passed, with unanimous approval, the Supplementary Estimates and Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2024 to address immediate relief and early recovery from Beryl’s havoc, damage, pain and suffering. These “Supplementaries”, totalling EC $136.45 million, are funded largely by EC $50 million from the Contingencies Fund, EC $37 million in loans (local and external), EC $44 million in grants (largely through $14 million from Taiwan and $13.5 million from a wealthy home-owner on Canouan), and EC $5.0 million from a pay-out on a regional insurance arrangement. Additionally, the House passed an amendment to the Public Sector Loans Act raising the ordinary borrowing limit by EC $70 million to the sum of EC $225 million, and the overdraft limit of the government by EC $20 million to EC $85 million, to meet the exigencies of the post-Beryl situation. These sums raised are additional to the existing 2024 Estimates and Appropriation Bill which were passed respectively in December 2023 and January 2024. Significant sums of money from the existing Budget are being repurposed to address Beryl’s devastation and destruction.
It is to be noted that amidst all the urgent endeavors of relief and early recovery by the government, its leadership was able to prepare, and conclude, in less than three weeks after Beryl’s landfall, the parliamentary approval of the requisite immediate resources. Our government did the same thing in roughly the same timeframe after the first COVID death in March 2020, and the volcanic eruptions of April 2021. Undoubtedly, activist and focused governance in emergency or disaster conditions by the ULP government. Praises from the IMF on government’s response
On the evening of Wednesday July 17, 2024, the government received a post-Beryl “Supplementary Information Report” to the earlier 2024 Article IV Consultation Report by the staff of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This “Supplementary Information” by the IMF made four basic but significant points: (i) Hurricane Beryl left major destruction on SVG primarily in the Southern Grenadines; (ii) the government authorities responded swiftly to the emergency caused by Beryl; (iii)past efforts to build financial resilience, and assistance from the international community are helping the authorities to finance disaster relief; and (iv) the thrust of the IMF staff’s favourable appraisal on the trajectory of the economy remains broadly unchanged, and the
government authorities’ prompt crisis responses follow closely their contingency plan.
In the latter regard, the “Supplementary Information” avers:
“While the hurricane caused large physical damage the IMF staff’s current assessment suggests that the impact on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) might be relatively contained, considering that the post-hurricane reconstruction efforts would support activity, similarly to the experience with the swift responses to the volcanic eruptions of 2021. The nearterm fiscal deficit and financing needs are likely to rise, while public debt –although elevated – is expected to remain sustainable considering the use of Contingencies Fund and some grants.
“––Once the recovery is on a solid footing, the government authorities intend to undertake measures to enhance debt sustainability and rebuild buffers.”
This vey positive perspective of the IMF is helpful to government’s efforts to secure additional resources externally.
More resources needed
The government preliminarily estimates that it will require in excess of an additional EC $750 million to address the immediate relief, recovery, and partial, though substantial, reconstruction. The recovery and reconstruction phases will focus in the short-to-medium term on: Rebuilding government’s physical infrastructure (damaged educational institutions, clinics, police stations, tourism sites, agriculture infrastructure, government buildings, airports, wharfs); effecting a full clean-up programme; restoring and sustaining electricity, water, health, sanitation, security, and telecoms services; delivering quality access to educational services in the affected areas; addressing the housing needs of the affected populations; providing and maintaining an acceptable level of social protection to affected persons and families; rebuilding the economic infrastructure and production especially in agriculture, tourism, and fisheries; providing production and income supports respectively to affected enterprises (business people, farmers, fisherfolk) and workers; pursuing especial initiatives for persons in the Grenadines, young people, and women; and providing vital psychosocial support to affected persons.
At the same time as recovery and partial reconstruction proceed, relief continues for persons in shelters and evacuees in private homes or guest houses.
Of the additional $750 million or so required for all of this, the government has identified actual or probable/likely sources of funds, immediately, in the sum of approximately EC $400 million. We are on the hunt for the identification of the gap resources of some EC $350 million or more.
Still, these sums do not cover the restoration from the damage to the rivers, and the sea coasts, and economic loss. Bear in mind, too, that a conservative estimate of EC $400 million is required for housing alone. That is a vital area in the recovery and reconstruction plans. (TO BE CONTINUED)
We will support the recovery effort
(Excerpts of President of the NDP, Honourable Dr Godwin Friday’s presentation at a recently held Press Conference. (Pt. 2)
OUR PRIORITYmust be the immediate welfare of the people directly affected. We have seen that in the span of a few hours, lives have been turned upside down. There is psychological trauma and physical dislocation. Meeting daily needs should not add to their problems.
The families of those persons who died in the hurricane or are unaccounted for need our prayers and support. Lives cannot be returned, but our care and attention might ease the pain of the loss. Many homes were severely damaged or destroyed, people must be provided with secure shelter immediately. And continue as long as needed.
In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane some people have moved in with family or friends. I know of people in that position. They also need help. They must not be forgotten because they are getting lodging from friends.
Many are in public shelters and may be there for a long time, because their homes were badly damaged or destroyed. They need regular access to food, clothing and other basic supplies. And, attention must be paid to meeting the special needs of the elderly and sick and children.
Also, every effort must be made to assist in the cleanup of the communities and the rebuilding of the homes. People want to return to their homes as soon as possible. That is only natural. So, rebuilding must be done as quickly as possible, and safely.
What people say to my colleagues and me is that they would like to be able to restore their house roofs, even if temporarily, so that they can clean up their homes, in preparation for eventually returning to live in them. This must be addressed urgently. There is no time to spare. The government must act efficiently and effectively.
Many businesses were severely damaged and must be assisted to get back up and running quickly. As a businessman in Union Island correctly reminded me, a community cannot get back on its feet until the businesses that sustain it are back up and running.
The role of the government in the cleanup and recovery is, of course, critical. People need to hear from the government and be assured that they will get help; they need to know how and when they will receive help to rebuild.
Assistance must be based on need
The only criterion for government assistance in this crisis must be the need of the people who were affected. Nothing else should determine who gets help from the government in this disaster. There is the concern that aid would not get to many who desperately need it. This is based on the record of this government in managing previous disasters where people who were affected did not get help or it was delayed for no good reason.
We can and we will build and rebuild a better future for our people. To do so, we must get people housed and build a strong economy for a strong recovery. We need to get people
back into their homes. We need to get people a roof over their heads. We need to give them the certainty of when this will happen.
This means: providing a definite timetable to restore all homes and setting a deadline to have repair and rebuild houses. And, confirmation that the government will reimburse all those who rebuild privately, even if temporarily.
We need to get our economy moving. Our tourism industry will be hit hard. For example, dive shops and hotels were destroyed in Clifton.
Also, our fisherfolk and farmers have lost their livelihoods. We need to get the economy working to underpin our recovery. That means we must:
* Create a plan to replace damaged or lost boat engines and other supplies for fisherfolk.
* Create a workable plan to help farmers replant crops and replace equipment.
* Set out a plan to help all those businesses who have to close because of hurricane damage.
We can do better and we will do better. Our country can come back stronger and better, as we rebuild with more resilience. We must work together to build for the future, seizing the opportunities and overcoming the challenges.
The NDP will play its part in the recovery effort
The NDP’s Initiatives are:
1. Provide up to $100,0000 in backto-school bursaries to assist children directly affected by the hurricane disaster.
2. Set up a center at Democrat House to receive and distribute disaster relief supplies.
3. Receive private donations, e.g. through a GoFundMe initiative to assist with supplies and rebuilding homes and business premises.
4. Continue to visit communities hit by the disaster to reassure people of support and continuously assess recovery efforts.
The killings continue
We now have 28 killings for the year. Most by shooting. The most recent was shocking, as it involved three victims, two died. One was a 16year-old student. Most are young people; most are killed by gunshot. Too many of our young people are destroying each other and themselves. Too many of our people are resigned to this fate of violence and death. Too many people have lost hope, and do not see a brighter future in SVG. How did we get to this point? How do we retreat and get back to safer communities? The situation is unacceptable. It is the result of failure by the government at various levels. The government must show it recognizes the crisis, that it takes the problem seriously, and that it will act urgently. Or more people will continue to be killed at an alarming rate in our beloved country, and we will set new records for homicides. This is not what anyone wants. Leadership is needed. The government has not been providing it.
The Carpenter’s Rule: Measure Twice and Cut Once
“Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it is not all mixed up” — Alan Alexander Milne (1882-1956) — English novelist, poet, and playwright
MANY YOUNG ARTISANS HAVEbeen guided by the discipline generated by the need to spend time designing, planning, and measuring prior to embarking on a project. Several have been guided by the Carpenter’s Rule: Measure Twice and Cut Once. However, the wisdom that is conjured up in this statement is not limited to artisans; everyone can benefit from imbibing the pearls of wisdom generated by this proverb that emphasizes the importance of planning and ensuring accurate measurement before taking action. This may be especially so when considering an act that may be considered critical or irreversible.
This principle is especially important in carpentry, woodworking, metal work, and other trades where accurate measurements directly impact the fit and quality of the final product. It reinforces the idea that comprehensive preparation and attention to detail in the initial stages of a project can prevent costly mistakes and lead to better end results.
The discipline of checking for accuracy is considered valuable in every profession. Children, who eventually grow up to become surgeons, lawyers, police officers, shop keepers, teachers, secretaries, and so on, often learn the value of checking and double-checking long before they graduate from institutions of higher learning. This writer, for example, has fond memories of assisting my mother in her shop after school on afternoons and learning the importance of double-checking the addition of the cost of items being sold to customers, and also verifying that the cash being returned is accurate by reviewing the calculations prior to enacting the transaction. She reminded us that if we engage in counting a series of numbers having gone through the list by counting from the top to the bottom, then the re-check should be done by going through the numerals in reverse; from the bottom to the top. When questioned about the validity of such a practice she calmly explained that this is done to avoid the possibility of repeating an error that may have occurred during the initial count. It encourages accuracy and minimizes the possibility of errors. Measuring twice and cutting once is a priceless proverb that is considered invaluable in numerous social and working situations.
It is often very disheartening to observe individuals who can be described as very impulsive; they do not wait to count the likely cost involved in their unbridled thoughts, utterances, or actions. The carpenter’s rule also applies in such scenarios. Individuals need to develop the discipline to weigh situations and calculate the likely responses and reactions prior to embarking on a course of action. This does not imply that we avoid taking risks; it simply means that we must engage in calculating the risks and, as best we can, putting things in place to reduce or eliminate likely negative consequences.
Research has shown that the Chinese and Indian cultures have consistently encouraged their citizens to innovate
and to take calculated risks to improve science, technology, businesses, etc. Sun Tzu, the renowned Chinese military strategist and philosopher, writing in his book “The Art of War” (5th century BC), provided insights into strategic thinking, influencing not only military manoeuvres and foresights but considered especially relevant in so many aspects of our day to day lives. Among other things, he encouraged restraint and thorough analysis prior to embarking on critical ventures.
There are many games that allow us to learn such important values. While games are extremely useful in providing entertainment for the players and spectators, they also teach many critical life lessons. For example, the game of chess can teach a variety of disciplines and skills beyond just the game itself. Research has confirmed that this game, developed in India in the 6th Century AD, can teach players patience and perseverance; encourage strategic thinking and planning skills; enhance critical thinking abilities, creativity and imagination; concentration and focus; and decision making under pressure.
Based on the foregoing, we gain a better understanding and appreciation that playing chess not only enhances one’s understanding of the game but also cultivates an array of valuable skills and disciplines that can be applied across various aspects of life. Included in this, is the ability to discipline self to avoid being impulsive; to examine options and likely outcomes before proceeding on a particular trend of thought or action. In its own way, it reinforces the carpenter’s rule to measure twice and cut once.
There are many passages in the bible that encourage readers to imbibe the wisdom that surrounds careful consideration and analysis when making decisions. For example, in the Luke 14:28-30, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ uses the analogy of building a tower and reminds His followers that such an activity requires careful planning and consideration before engaging in such an activity. It advises us to evaluate the costs and commitments involved to ensure that the project can be successfully completed. This, too, is considered a useful reminder of the value of contemplating what is required (i.e., measurement) prior to embarking on the exercise (i.e., cutting).
Based on the foregoing, we understand and appreciate that this proverb that revolves around measuring twice and cutting once goes far beyond a carpenter’s exercise. While it provides a useful analogy, its value can be seen and appreciated in our everyday life and activities. It is pregnant with wisdom for those who are required to make personal decisions as well as for those individuals who are charged with the responsibility of shaping the future for business, government departments, and for society at large.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
A Battle for Venezuela’s Future.
ON SUNDAY, JULY 28, Venezuelans will go to the polls to elect a president to serve for another six years. President Nicolas Maduro, who assumed office following the death of revolutionary hero Hugo Chavez, is being challenged by 74-year-old retired diplomat Edmundo González, broadly perceived as a darling of the local and foreign elite.
President Maduro is supported by 13 leftist parties, prominent among them is his United Socialist Party. The United States is working overtime to dislodge Maduro and the socialist experiment which began in 1998 with the election of Hugo Chavez. Chavez’s election launched the Bolivarian revolution, which heralded a process of change and transformation where, for the first time in the country’s history, the nation’s wealth and resources were committed and used for the benefit of the poor and working people.
Having hand-picked Gonzalez, who has been out of public life since 2002, opponents of the Maduro government are spending big, bankrolling political parties, NGOs and media outlets, all with the same goal: ousting Maduro and returning Venezuela into the U.S. sphere of influence.
To press home its case against Venezuela, the U.S. government is also continuing its campaign of economic warfare against the country, with crushing sanctions designed to make the economy scream and foster domestic resentment towards the Maduro administration.
The primary vehicle through which the U.S. supports overseas groups is the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). NED was created as a cover for what previously was done by the discredited Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). It is estimated that the American government has spent hundreds of millions of dollars on regime change in Venezuela.
NED openly brags that it funds a network of activists, youth, intellectuals, and citizens whom it hopes will act as leaders for a return to neoliberal rule in the country. It claims that its training is designed to enhance youth’s leadership, organisational, and networking capacity to engage in the recovery of ‘democracy’ and to foster international solidarity by raising the profiles and voices of youth leaders. A generation of pro-U.S. cadres and leaders capable of challenging the government is being cultivated and trained. ]
One thing is clear: The wealthy and powerful in Venezuela and the developed countries will not settle for anything less than the removal of President Maduro and his left coalition from power. Foreign puppeteers are pulling the strings and calling the shots. It must not be forgotten that in the 2018 presidential and legislative elections, opposition parties won the majority of seats in the national assembly, but President Maduro won a second term.
The National Assembly refused to accept Maduro’s election as president and instead nominated the obscure assemblyman Juan Guido. When Guido was hoisted on the Venezuelan people, less than 20 percent of the citizens had heard of him. Guido’s nomination brought on a constitutional crisis. The USA and other Western governments supported the unpopular Guido, granting him billions of dollars in
Venezuelan assets to steal and squander.
Guido, voted out by his reactionary coalition in 2022, lives in the United States, having been made wealthy by his sponsors whose sole intent was to subvert Venezuela’s independence and sovereignty.
Pay attention to who respects democratic expressions. In 2007, the people voted against a referendum that sought to enlarge Hugo Chavez’s presidential powers. In 2015, opposition legislators won most of the seats in the National Assembly. On both occasions, the Chavistas accepted the sovereign will of the people.
As the July 28 poll draws near, President Maduro Maduro has repeatedly stated that he will respect the electorate’s choice, no matter what. ‘I believe in the electoral system, I believe in Venezuelan democracy, I believe in the people, and I believe in deep and true democracy. I’m ready,” he said.
Not so the opposition. The leading opposition candidate, Edmundo González, has refused to make a similar commitment. The opposition has never accepted any election loss. With the backing of foreign governments and the Western media, all defeats have been questioned. Worse, the opposition has repeatedly used periods of elections to sow turmoil and violence and to launch coup attempts. In 2021, the US tried to bride top government officials, including the Interior and defence ministers. When the plot unravelled, the interior minister bolted for Miami. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez announced that he was offered US$20 million to betray his country. He refused and remained loyal to the people. What was the US response? File an indictment accusing both Maduro and his defence minister of drug trafficking and placing a US$15 million bounty on their heads. Clearly, the stakes are high. Will Maduro win a third term and be allowed to continue the socialist experiment Hugo Chavez began? During the last 26 years, millions of homes have been built for the poor and underprivileged in Venezuela. Education and health care were free. However, the efforts have been made difficult because of the policies of sabotage and strangulation pursued by the US and European Union.
In some ways, American policies have succeeded. Millions of people are estimated to have left their homeland to earn a living in other countries. These powerful governments plan to make life so difficult for the people whom the government is trying to help that the poor and working people will reject and revolt against the Maduro government. Similar policies of blackmail, embargoes, and sanctions have been deployed against Cuba, Nicaragua, Iran and Russia.
This election may prove a turning point in Venezuelan politics. All peace-loving and independentminded people should raise their voices and call on the big and powerful countries to cease their interference and sabotage of Venezuela’s internal affairs. The people should be allowed to vote without pressure and to live in peace.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to
ÂStormyÊ gunned down
ROMARIO BYNOE, BETTER KNOWN as ‘Stormy’, 26, of Argyle/Mesopotamia, was gunned downed in Level Garden/McKies Hill area, sometime around 5:30pm, on Tuesday 23rd July, 2024.
A police report said that Bynoe was approached by a lone gunman who shot him multiple times. He died on the spot.
The assailant, from reports, escaped along the road leading to the De Nobriga’s Ice and Ice Cream factory.
The police confirmed that one Annette Frederick, said to be Bynoe’s girlfriend, was shot in the leg and back in the same attack. She was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for attention.
A nine-year-old who was present at the scene during the incident and who is purported to be Frederick’s son, escaped unhurt.
Preliminary investigations by the police point to Bynoe being involved in a motor vehicle accident in the McKies Hill/Level Gardens area on the afternoon in question, and it was while awaiting assistance and the arrival of the person from whom he had rented the vehicle, that he was approached and shot.
Information gathered after the shooting indicated that he had also contacted his girlfriend to notify her about his predicament and that he would not be able to ‘pick her up’ that afternoon.
She, however, found her way with the
nine-year-old to the location where Bynoe was waiting.
Romario ‘Stormy’ Bynoe, this country’s latest shooting victim, may just have known there were some who were out to get him.
Since the shooting, it was learned that the victim might have been waiting for well over half an hour before his girlfriend arrived, and that but Bynoe insisted that he should wait on the vehicle owner. He, his girlfriend and the child waiting in the parking space of a nearby apartment building.
A friend of the deceased said that Bynoe was complacent. “He knew that people in the community close to where the accident took place, wanted him dead, so he shouldn’t have stayed there so long. I believe that someone made a call and they sent a gunman to the location to kill ‘Stormy’,” the friend said, adding, “People higher up know what going on in the place and they have their side.”
Bynoe had his fair share of runins with the law.
In October 2017, he was sentenced to six months in prison for possession of two rounds of 9mm ammunition without a licence, and 12 months in prison for possession of three rounds of 5.56mm ammunition without a license.
In November 2017, he was sentenced to three months in prison for possession of a homemade firearm.
Persons in the know said that he
Farmer charged with cruelly ill-treating animal
ON JULY 21, 2024 POLICE arrested and charged Odel Gumbs, a 48-year-old farmer of Green Hill with the offence of Animal Cruelty.
According to the investigations, the accused allegedly without lawful excuse, cruelly ill-treated one (1) white boar pig valued at $1,100.00 ECC - the property of a 41-year-old Electrician of Green Hill - by chopping same on the back with a cutlass.
The offence was committed on July 21, 2024, in Green Hill.
Gumbs appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on Monday July 22, 2024, and pleaded guilty to the charge. He was placed on bond for six months. In default, he pays $1000.00 ECC forthwith or spends four months in prison. He was also ordered to pay compensation to the complainant in the sum of $2,000.00 ECC by December 31, 2024 or six months imprisonment. (Source: SRSVGPF)
was a suspect in the killing of a man in the vicinity of the ‘gap’ leading to Tree House Bar, Arnos Vale, in May, 2023. His death marked the 29th homicide recorded in St. Vincent and the Grenadines so far, for 2024. (KH)
Annette Frederick receiving some attention as she lay on the ground after receiving shots to her leg and back.
The police took command of the scene and its environs so as to allow for preliminary investigations.
Mayreau farmer receives help: Good example
VENNA OLLIVIERRE IS A GOATand pig farmer on the Grenadine island Mayreau. In the midst of his displacement occasioned by Hurricane Beryl, he has extended heartfelt thanks to the East Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), for reaching out to him with the first tranche of aid in the form of animal feed.
With Beryl having stripped the island of most of its vegetation, little was left for his goats to eat, and his stock of pig feed was blown away.
Venna is a regular ECGC customer as the records will verify, so it wasn’t difficult for the veterinarian working with the company to speak directly with Venna, to ascertain the type and quantity of animal feed his animals required, and possible medications. Once that assessment was finalized, his family friend, Don De Riggs, collected the feed from ECGC and personally delivered it and other food supplies and water to him, at the site of his demolished home in Mayreau. De Riggs, Director of the RRL/YRM, said that he appreciated the kind gesture of ECGC and hoped “that this is not the first and last donation of animal feed to Ollivierre and other farmers in Mayreau, Canouan and Union Island, who have been similarly affected. The major focus of all residents affected in Mayreau, Union, Canouan and elsewhere, is to have their homes rebuilt, and therefore, any assistance to maintain their honest livelihoods, is through assistance by good corporate citizens like ECGC.”
The ordeal and its impact
dodged the flying metal.
When the winds subsided, Venna began rummaging through the debris in his house. He found a cordless drill that he never saw before, and didn’t know where it had come from… whether it was picked up in Mayreau, Union, Palm island, PSV or elsewhere is anyone’s guess, but it landed in his house!
There was also an interesting tale related by a resident from Union Island, whom the writer met on his return trip, via MV Gem Star 2, to ‘Vincy’. The resident told of his normally aggressive dog, a pit bull, which had become as tame as a puppy; didn’t bark at anyone and pored over his food before eating.
Such was the extent of the effect on animals, far less humans.
Communications - Internet/Wi-Fi service
starlink service that allowed a fairly reliable free WI-Fi service to the public in Mayreau, so that any emergencies could be reported, if necessary.
This complimentary WI-FI service, in part, has been provided by the NTRC and has reduced the workload but not importance of ham radio. Starlink service will always be affected on rainy or overcast days and when there is volcanic ash in the atmosphere. Ham radio, once there is a power source, can provide reliable communication as there are several frequency bands and operational modes available for use by radio amateurs (Hams).
Going forward – reaching out
could share their experiences with others. This also serves as an escape valve for the pent-up emotions built up during the storm… pent-up experiences that can contribute directly to PTSD.
An appeal is also made to corporate society to adopt a family or two, maybe even three, four, or five families, dealing with the most urgent first, to ensure that these families can rebuild stronger and have a better standard of life.
The Mayreau farmer, in sharing his experience during Beryl, said that after his roof was blown away, a sheet of galvanize kept swirling around angrily. He had to hide behind a refrigerator and use it as a body shield to prevent himself being sliced by the sharp metal. This ordeal continued for about half an hour as he constantly
While in Mayreau, De Riggs used the opportunity to operate his portable ham radio donated by Barrett communications, to maintain contact with local and regional fellow operators.
It was noted that there were a few persons who were still operating a
This report will not be complete if mention is not made of some of the vital components in the delivery of the relief and the response mechanism in general, namely the inter-island ferries. After the Jaden Sun Fast Ferry had to discontinue service because of engine issues, ‘Gem Star’ and ‘Bequia Express’ did the major hauling of relief supplies, sometimes leaving port Kingstown late just to ensure that all available relief supplies could reach their intended destinations in the earliest possible time.
Sometimes, after unloading in Canouan and Mayreau, ‘Gem Star’ would arrive in Union around at 10 pm, but the dedicated forklift drivers were there to move heavy cargo safely from ship to shore.
It is a given that the ravages of Hurricane Beryl will produce cases of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among some members of the affected Grenadines communities. Signs of withdrawal and hopelessness will not be uncommon. This beckons those of us not affected to reach out to relatives and friends in those islands, to give them a sense of hope.
In addition, religious ministers, social workers and journalists across the mass communications landscape should speak with/interview as many persons as possible, so that they
Thanks to ECGC for leading in a tangible way. More can and MUST be done by you and others, especially those in the construction (hardware) and food businesses.
Story and photos by: DONALD DE RIGGS
Venna Ollivierre storing his donation of animal feed from ECGC.
Establishing
from
Mayreau jett.y
Righteous Bar and Restaurant is now a work of Beryl Art
Beryl necessitates Supplementary Budget
PARLIAMENT APPROVED
ANEC$136.4 million
Supplementary Appropriation Bill (Supplementary Budget) for a (national) re-building programme, necessitated by the destruction caused by the passage of category 4 Hurricane Beryl, on July 01, 2024, across the multiisland state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The Bill had its final passage of approval well into the early hours of Friday (July 19), something to which the Opposition objected but could do little if anything to prevent.
Rebuilding, especially homes, in places like Union island will be like starting all over again and will received a greater part of the Supplementary Budget.
The approval came amidst the absence of a number of Opposition members and a tired, exhausted cohort of government members of the House.
Presenting the Supplementary Bill, Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves highlighted the major areas to be funded by the amount approved over and above the EC$1.6 million
Appropriation Bill (National Budget) approved in January 2024.
Among those actions and amounts allocated were: EC$23 million to BRAGSA to clean up debris and EC$6 million for road cleaning; EC$40 million or 29% of the budget for construction - (including the construction of homes (EC$10 million), the purchase of building materials (EC$12.5 million), purchase of aggregate (EC$1.9 million) and the purchasing of land (EC$2 million).
Much of the construction work/assistance is earmarked for the Southern Grenadines which suffered damage to 95% of their building/housing stock.
Other support
Some EC$12 million have been allocated as income support for fishers and farmers, and additional amounts of EC$5.5 million and EC$2 million for production support (e.g. implements, engines) for farmers and fishers respectively.
EC$13.5 million will go to the reconstruction of public buildings including schools, clinics and police stations, the Minister said, and EC$12 million will go towards feeding people,
with $10 million of that amount set aside for use by the Ministry of Economic Planning and EC$2 million by the Ministry of National Mobilisation.
Repairs to jetties and wharves, given their importance in the daily lives of people of the Grenadines will get priority attention.
The Ministry of Agriculture will get a separate EC$2 million to provide food boxes, commonly referred to as ‘Love Boxes’.
The Supplementary Budget also provided EC$2.5 million towards retrofitting and expanding the former Teachers’ College and the former Richmond Gabriel University, to house the students of the three schools from Union Island.
And as for accommodation for displaced students, teachers and at least a parent of each student, the Bill approved an allocation of EC$3 million to the Ministry of Tourism, to pay for accommodation in guest houses on mainland St. Vincent.
Repairs to jetties and wharves destroyed by the hurricane will attract EC$3.5 million.
And towards facilitating continued free ferry shuttle service to and from the Grenadines for disadvantaged residents, , an allocation of EC$1.4 million has been made to the Ministry of Urban Development.
On other fronts, the Supplementary Budget includes a provision for the Promoting Youth Micro Enterprises (PRYME) programme for outlay exclusively among residents of the Grenadines.
And the Social Development Fund administered by the office of the Prime
support.
Minister will be supplemented by a sum of EC$1 million.
Financing the Supplementary Budget
Minister Gonslaves told Parliament that the Supplementary Budget will be financed from, among other sources:
* the Contingency Fund - up to EC$50 million;
* international bilateral and multilateral donors (e.g. World Bank) -
through grants and/or loans;
* EC$5 million from Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF);
* grants from friendly countries (e.g. Taiwan, USA, Canada) and Caribbean Colleague countries nations (Dominica, Cayman Islands, Anguilla);
* multilateral grants/loans from the Caribbean Development Bank, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, the European Union, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and the Organisation of Caribbean States;
* wealthy foreign investors — e.g. a resident of Canouan who has promised some US$5 million to fund reconstruction in Canouan;
* the local private sector, e.g. C. K. Greaves and Co. Ltd., who have made a donation to the tune of EC$500,000,00, specifically to be used in re-construction of homes and other buildings.
Livestock farmers and crop farmers will get both income and production
The fishing industry in the Grenadines was hard hit and the Supplementary Budget provides both income and production support for fishers.
Psychiatrist wanted!!!
THE WOESat the Mental continues as that institution remains unserved by a resident psychiatrist.
And according to St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, finding someone to fill the vacancy is proving to be a herculean task.
“A psychiatrist is in very high demand in the region and indeed worldwide,” Prince said as he responded to Opposition Parliamentarian Daniel Cummings’ question in Parliament to update the nation on the process to appoint a psychiatrist.
Prince recalled that it took the Ministry of Health (MOH) four years to secure the services of a consultant psychiatrist after the one appointed in 2019 resigned after serving for a year and a half. The replacement, appointed in April 2023, also reigned after only a few months in August 2023.
As it stands, Prince said, the MOH was in the final stages in discussions with two medical schools, working towards a partnership to recruit and employ a psychiatrist, who will provide services at the MRHC.
Additionally, the MOH was reviewing three offers to partner with private psychosocial groups to offer services in the public sector, Prince told the Parliament.
There are currently five vacancies at the MRHC including that of a consultant psychiatrist.
The others include senior nursing officer, a registrar (requiring qualifications as a psychiatrist), a ward manager and an occupational therapist. (DD)
The Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre (MHRC) is still without the service in top areas of the staff structure –including the position of a psychiatrist.
The UWI mourns Sir Neville Nicholls
The Caribbean has lost another intellectual giant. The University of the West Indies (The UWI) salutes Sir Neville Nicholls as a quintessential Caribbean Man. He served his country, Barbados, and the Caribbean in several capacities, including as Chairman of the Campus Council of The UWI Cave Hill Campus from 1995 to 2009 and as President of the Caribbean Development Bank.
In all of his endeavours, the hallmark of excellence and doing what was right for the people who would be the ultimate beneficiaries of the decisions were paramount.
The UWI Community
extends its deepest condolences to Sir Neville’s sons and other family members. We recognize the sacrifices they made in sharing Sir Neville with us, and we are grateful for his stellar service to our country and the region.
Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, reflects on Sir Neville as “a great UWI man” even though he was not an alumnus of the regional university. Vice-Chancellor affirmed, “His advice to me as Principal of the Cave Hill Campus when he chaired the Campus Council was invaluable and deeply appreciated.”
Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Cave Hill Campus, Professor R Clive Landis, added, “The Campus community mourns the passing of a giant in the Cave Hill pantheon. Sir Neville’s tenure as Campus Council Chair marked a period of remarkable growth in the physical plant of the Campus, its academic programming and student enrolment. I extend deepest condolences to Sir Neville’s family and friends on behalf of a grateful Campus”.
The late Sir Neville Nicholls, Former Chair, The UWI Cave Hill Campus Council.
Even as LIAT 2020 awaits a decision with respect to its purchase of three ATR aircraft (Top) from the CDB, it has alrady taken possession of two Embraer jets from its co-shareholder, Air Peace.
LIAT 2020 awaiting CDB approval
“WHENLIAT takes off from Antigua as a commercial carrier, the first place it will land will be in Barbuda; that is the expectation, at the new airport in Barbuda.”
This was the assurance given by Chief of Staff in the Antigua and Barbuda Government, Lionel Hurst, during his post-Cabinet briefing, Wednesday 18th July.
According to Hurst, Cabinet was confident LIAT 2020 would take to the skies in early August. However, the exact opening date for both the Barbuda airport and LIAT’s relaunch remains uncertain.
The understanding is that the major obstacle as far as the relaunch of LIAT, albeit a new entity LIAT 2020 Ltd., is concerned, is the pending approval from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), for the transfer of ownership of the aircraft from LIAT 1974 Ltd. to the new entity, LIAT 2020, which is owned by Antigua and Barbuda.
Also affecting the relaunch of KIAT 2020 is a response by the CDB as it relates to a repurposing of $12.1 million that Antigua and Barbuda paid to the CDB for three aircraft.
The government is seeking to use
these funds to pay former LIAT workers awaiting severance.
And while the negotiations continue with the CDB, the government is not hiding its excitement with respect to its plans for the airport in Barbuda.
The new airport currently boasts a 6,100-foot runway with plans in place to extend it by an additional 2,000 feet, bringing the total length to over 8,000 feet.
This expansion will significantly enhance the airport’s capabilities, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft and potentially attracting a wider range of visitors, the government said.
There is also the possibility that the airport could serve as a refuelling point for larger aircraft making transatlantic flights, due to the country’s prime positioning in the centre of the Caribbean archipelago. Hurst gave the added assurance that, “Everything is ready in Barbuda. The runway is ready, the staff are in place for receiving flights.”
Whatever, the intention is to have LIAT’s relaunch coincide with the opening of the ‘new’ airport in Barbuda. (Source: Observer)
INSURANCE TENDER
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The renewal Date is 28th August, 2024
The Tender Deadline is 6th August, 2024 – 3:00pm sharp
Insurers can collect/request Tender details from:
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Grenville Street, Kingstown
Tel: 457-1310 | Fax: 457-1330
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A friendÊs deceit
Dear George,
I overheard my good friend trying to convince my girlfriend not to marry me. He was at my engagement celebration and openly said ours was a match made in heaven.
I do not know the reason why he would want to discourage my girl from being my bride and I have approached neither he nor my girlfriend on the matter, leaving them to go about their business as though all is well.
The truth is I am questioning myself about whether I should be trusting my girlfriend and I am beginning to believe they have something going on.
This thing is bothering me and have affected the way I see both my friend and my girlfriend. I do not know what to do.
Feeling let Down
Dear Feeling let Down,
This is not the time to remain quiet.
Your girlfriend should be comfortable enough to bring this matter to you so that you can figure out if she is affected by your friend’s comments.
This heads up from her you can then use to confront your friend and inquire from him the reason for his two-faced approach to your friendship.
The time is ripe for a serious sit down involving you and your girl. Slow things down a bit until you get a convincing all clear.
George
Wife in a same sex affair
Dear George,
IWALKEDin on my wife getting down with my female boss. My boss had the audacity to ask me what I was going to do about it. I replied, “I will let both of you know,” and walked out of the room.
The thing is my boss has been trying to get me to sleep with her. When I refused, she vowed to get me one way or the other. I cannot understand how she managed to get my wife to buy into this kind of lifestyle.
George, I love my wife dearly but what she has done has aroused very dark thoughts in my mind.
I’m not going to let my boss get her away with this one, and my wife will get what she deserves as well. I am no plaything and sooner than later both of them will find that out.
Crossed Line
Dear Crossed Line,
I understand your of hurt — of being taken advantage of and
betrayed. You would do yourself well to take some time to gather your thoughts and get some advice. The dark thoughts should not be entertained for they cannot positive outcomes. It is imperative that you and your wife see a professional counselor to help you through this. Should she for any reason refuse to do so, you still need to follow through with the counsellor for your own benefit and well-being.
George
Sex as a way out
Dear George,
MY WIFEcomplained that I was hurting her whenever we had sex. I ‘eased up’ to accommodate her.
George, two weeks ago I learned that my wife was having an affair with an associate of mine, who is known to be well endowed… bigger than I am.
My wife, it seems, has no problem sleeping with him and when I confronted her, her response was “he is giving me what I want. I am left to question whether my wife was really into me or was she simply making excuses all along. What do you think? Confused
Dear Confused,
There could be a lot more going on in your relationship. Maybe and just maybe, your wife was dissatisfied with more issues and used sex as the jump off point to a
getaway plan. As things are, you need to hear from your wife what her plans are for the marriage so you could decide if you have to move on.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
You may blow situations out of proportion when dealing with the one you love. You are ready to blow up and your stress level has gone into over drive. Don't make a move; your confusion has caused this dilemma and you are best to back away and reassess the situation. Be aware that you might be at fault as well.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Changes in your residence will be favorable in the long haul. Don't let others know about your private affairs. Delve a little deeper if you really want to know the score. Don't overspend on friends or children.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
You may be fortunate while traveling. You will enjoy physical activities more than you think. Be cautious while traveling to foreign countries. You can meet friends who will let you know how valuable you are.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Get into fitness programs to keep in shape. Your ambitious mood may not go over well with loved ones. Try to channel your energy into professional endeavors. Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections. Ask those in key positions to help you overcome the delays and to support your concerns in order to move on.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
You will have original ideas for ways to make extra money. Real estate investments could be to your advantage. Get involved in a competitive sport that will bring the challenges you thrive on. Try to ease any disappointment by making amends.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Those you work with may have little consideration for the underdog. You will be in the mood for entertainment. Do something together and you'll be surprised how sweet a deal you can make. Take care of any medical problems if they've been troubling you.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You will not be able to contain your emotions this week. Do not expect others to do your work. You must deal with an emotional problem with your loved one that you have been avoiding for some time now. Romantic opportunities are evident if you get involved in large groups or organizations.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Don't be too hard on your mate. Your health may suffer if you don't control your present situation. Throw yourself into your profession. Don't let your personal dilemmas interfere with your goals.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
Don't let opposition from those envious of your talents daunt your progress. Back off if you want to keep the relationship intact. Don't overlook that fact that someone you care about may be hiding something. Encourage the youngsters in your family.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
You can get your point across and make valuable connections. Don't allow someone to do a job that was designated specifically for you. Take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves. You must consider yourself for a change.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
You can't always have your own way. Use your high energy and dynamic approach to win favors from superiors. Relatives may not be telling you the whole truth about a family situation. Opportunities for romance may develop through dealing with groups that have a purpose.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Take time to find out all you can. Travel opportunities should be your first choice. You are best to put your efforts into redecorating or inviting friends over. You can learn a great deal if you listen to those who are older or more experienced.
1. Greet one’s dog 4. Ham and _ 8. Gymnast’s move
12. Portugal’s cont. 13. Ache’s kin 14. Gossip purveyor Barrett 15. Refreshing drink 16. Mirages 18. Speed _ 20. Eager 21. Play a trombone 23. Thrashes
27. Complexion mishap
30. Fawns’ moms 31. “Me,” to Miss Piggy 32. European steel center
31. TV’s “Mad _” 35. Samovars
37. Chewy candy
39. Actress Gallagher 41. Took to court
42. Singer Graham _ 45. Slide along 48. Use subliminal messages
52. Chair’s sidepiece
53. Actress Dillon 54. “_ you care!” (2 words)
55. Name (Fr.)
56. Partner of curds
57. Rudely inquisitive
58. CIA agent
DOWN
1. Resound, as bells 2. German car 3. Shaking
4. Prototype
5. Slangy female
6. River of Arizona
7. A bit too tight
8. Very cold
9. Brit’s washroom
10. Tavern
11. Mas’ mates
17. Fa’s follower
19. _ du Diable (Devil’s Island)
22. Neighbor of Mich.
24. Joke tellers
25. On an even _
26. 9-digit item (abbr.)
27. Dull person
28. Retirement benefit agcy.
29. Towel pronoun
31. Fall flower
33. On Santa’s bad side
36. Mental soundness
ACROSS
38. Crooner Tormé
Fabray, to friends 43. Graceful swimmer 44. Angelic symbol
46. Hard candy
47. Sitcom’s award
48. Munich’s car co.
49. Football cheer
50. Had a snack
51. “Help!”
Barbados are CWI U19 2-day champions
BARBADOS ARE THE NEW MALE Champions of the West Indies Rising Stars U19 Regional Two-Day Championship.
The Championship was adjusted from its original three-day format as a result of disruptions caused by the passage of Hurricane Beryl over St. Vincent and the Grenadines, host of the Championship.
The Barbadians took the title when they defeated and in the process dethroned Jamaica, in the first place playoff played at the recently modernised Arnos vale Playing Field.
In that drawn match, in which Barbados claimed first innings points, the new champions had scores of 200/9 declared and 172/2. Raneico Smith recorded an even 50 in the first innings, and Kyle Jordan and Joshua Morris had scores of 52 and 52 respectively in the second.
In their lone innings, Jamaica managed a score of 127/8 declared, Saurav Worrel, 3/24, and Jatario Prescod, 3/51, leading the bowling for Barbados.
In the third/fourth place playoff between the Windwards and the Leewards, the match seemed to be heading in the latter’s favour when they dismissed their opponents for a modest 96.
The Leewards, however, failed woefully in their replay mustering a mere 78 all out. Kirt Murray with 5/19 proved to be their undoing.
Batting a second time, the
Windwards declared at 151/8, setting a challenging target of 170 for the Leewards in just over 20 overs.
The match was eventually called off with the Leewards at 99/7, still needing 71 runs to win outright, therefore losing the match via the first innings points.
T’yanick Honore was the spark in their chase, hitting an aggressive 56 off 46 balls, including 6 sixes.
At Cumberland in the fifth/sixth
place clash, Guyana took first innings from Trinidad and Tobago for the fifth position to avoid finishing in the cellar position. Scores in the match were: Guyana 249, Trinidad and Tobago 90 and 71/5.
Meanwhile, the CWI U19 50 Overs Championship began here on Tuesday with the first round of five rounds of competition.
Kirt Murray, all-rounder, ensured that Leewards failed to overhaul a low first innings total by his team, the Windwards.
Captain Nathan Sealy articulated the feeling as “amazing” after leading his team to the 2- Day title, which has eluded him for the past two years while representing Barbados at these Championships.
Karatekas bag 12 medals at World Cup
ST VINCENT AND THE Grenadines bagged a total of twelve medals at the 2024 International Karate Daigaku (IKD) World Cup, staged at the Cliff Anderson
Georgetown, Guyana, July 1821.
The Vincentian medal tally included 3 gold, 3 silver and 6 bronze. Copping gold were Amiyah
Bascombe, who topped the Female 11-13 Brown belt
Individual Kata; Adriel Bynoe, who was first in the Male 8-10 Black Belt Individual Kata, and Rishawn Roache who stood tall in the Male Black Belt 14-16 Individual Kumite.
Among the silver medallists were Liam Bollers in the Green/ Blue Belt Male 8-10 Individual Kata; Amiyah Bascombe in the Brown Belt Female Individual Kumite, and the trio of Xonte O’ Brien, Liam Bollers and Adrian Bynoe, in Green /Blue/ Purple Belt 8-10 Male Team Kata.
The bronze takers were Miles Richards in the Green/ Blue/ Purple Belt 8-10 Male Individual Kumite; J- Don Matthews in the Green/ Blue/ Purple Belt 17-19 Female Kata, along with Terrance Providence- the 17-19 Male Individual Kata
Meanwhile, Providence, Isaiah Caesar and Rishawn Roache took bronze in the 17-
19 Male Team Kata, likewise Claude Bascombe Jr. in the Male 20-39 Individual Kumite and Aaron Mc Donald in the 11-13 Male Black Belt Individual Kumite.
Apart from the competitive aspect, Amiyah Bascombe and Sharv Stewart used the occasion to do their 1st Dan exams.
St Vincent and the Grenadines was represented by 18 karatekas.
Sports Hall in
Barbados – champions of CWI U19 2-day regional cricket .
Adriel Bynoe – gold medallist
Amiyah Bascombe –gold medallist
Rishawn Roache - gold medallist
IT DAT Summer Camp in train
began last week.
SANCHO LYTTLE, one of this country’s outstanding female basketball players and scholars, continues to avail her expertise and experience to young basketballers here.
A Vincentian by birth, Lyttle, now retired, had a 15-season career in the WNBA and also played professionally in the Euro League. She is
Seventy young people have registered for the camp, which has two daily sessions — 9:00am to 12:00 and 3:00pm to 5:30pm — which is expected to run for six weeks.
Miller in describing this year’s focus, said, “… Our main focus is on holistic development so we will be upping the attention paid to personal development and towards this end, we will have experts coming in to speak with the participants.”
As for the track and field component, Miller informed, “We will be also having a specialized coach to assist in the area of hurdles and the jumps. And as usual, we will focus on running techniques.”
Not to be excluded will be a component on mental preparedness and performance.
In explaining the focus here, Miller said, “The mental aspect is how you deal with pressure, how you set realistic goals for yourself, what are your values, how you stay committed, how you stay disciplined.”
She noted that this was an area, “...we really want to work with the kids, to help them understand that being in a sport, you want to set big goals but that success is not going to come in the short run, it is going to be a long process but we are here to help them and guide them.”
The opening of the camp heard a brief address from Ellsworth Coombs, the National 400m record holder, with a time of 45.19. He is the sole Vincentian to reach an Olympic semifinal. He inspired the participants with a talk on the values of Honesty, Ambition, Respect, and Pride: essential qualities for elevating their performance in their respective fields.
Keith Joseph, President of Team Athletics also addressed the opening ceremony. He highlighted the significance of athletic camps and national representation.
Participants being put through some basic work routines.
Lyttle avails her basketball expertise
currently employed as a teacher at a facility for students with learning disabilities.
She has availed herself as lead coach at this year’s Girls and Boys Summer Basketball Programme, hosted by the Sunshine Basketball Academy, and held at the New Montrose Basketball Facility. Speaking recently with THE VINCENTIAN, Lyttle made it clear that, “It’s always good to come back and give back to the sport I love.”
About those in the camp, she commented, “This group this year is better than last year … I can see the athleticism… their willingness to work.”
She did not hesitate, however, to identify the need for a proper court if the young people are to develop their potential.
“What I will like to see coming back every year is to be doing sessions in an indoor facility. Doing this on a concrete floor on an outdoor court, we missed a few sessions because it was raining. If you have an indoor stadium the kids can still play and continue to learn the sport,” Lyttle said.
Wayne Williams, Founder and Director of the Sunshine Basketball explained that this week, the second week of this year’s programme, focused on boys and girls under 20.
“Next week, we will be in Langley Park and that session will be led by
Adams who is responsible for mini basketball in SVG. This will be followed with a week for youths from ages 5-11 for that we will have input from the International Basketball Federation (IBF) basically, teaching the rudiments of the game with more fun-oriented approach,” Williams added.
Wayne Williams, basketball coach and administrator, is overseeing the Summer Programme.
The IBF is also assisting with training referees and table officials, Williams disclosed.
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
SORYNA MILLER, specialist mental performance coach and Assistant Director of the 2024 IT DAT Summer Camp, is happy with the turnout to the Camp which
Vasha
Ellsworth Coombs, this country’s most successful Olympian (to date), spoke to the young people about core values in life.
Soryna Miller, Asst. Camp Director, detailed the focus of this year’s camp.
Upwards of 70 young athletes have registered for this year’s IT DAT Summer camp.
Sancho Lyttle into sharing with the Programme’s young participants.
Sports and Games
UNTILAugust 11, focus will be on the Olympics which opens in Paris today, July 26. Before that, however, some aspects of the showdown would have been dispensed with, and the intensity towards the finale will grow to an eventual crescendo.
Our hopes for a break into the medal count rests on our four athletes: Handal Roban in the 800 metres, Shafiqua Maloney, Women’s 800 metres, and swimmers Alex Joachim; Men’s 100metre free style, and Kennice Greene Women’s 50metre freestyle.
This championship in Paris marks 100 years since that country hosted such an event, and they have embraced the occasion with pride.
During the Games, 329 events are slated in 32 sporting disciplines.
This outing comes at a crucial moment in world politics. The events in Gaza and indeed the Middle East will have a lingering effect on the championship, for no one can pretend that what taking place in Gaza can be erased from anyone’s thoughts.
There will be implications, and undoubtedly, security is of maximum concern.
France is known as a hub of European political upheaval. It serves as a barometer of activities, not only for Europe but owing to its location and historical dominance, entails a wide spread of global interests.
A country’s internal affairs tend to sway or have some bearing on matters like the Olympic Games. There will be a feeling of euphoria with staging the Games, but with the concerns about safety, there is that bit of apprehension as it affects ordinary citizens.
France itself is in the throes of its internal struggles, marked by practices of democracy which the world thrives on. The event itself will divert and distract from the current trends. But as soon as the Games are out of the way there will be a return to the normal politicking.
By then, the athletes would have been home, and the focus will shift to the Los Angeles event in four years.
That time, interest in the Caribbean will be keener, for there may be the prospect of a representation in cricket. That will depend on a number of variables, including how the West Indies ranks.
There will be consideration of a number of other factors, and given the manner in which these games are arranged, it may be surprising to see cricket’s return to the Olympics polished off in a convenient manner.
That, however, will be matters outside our jurisdiction and we will have to be content with what we have control over.
It is a pity that one has to reflect on the second Test in England. For most people, it might be better to have nothing to say about that Test. Set 383 for victory, fans must have been buoyed when the West Indies reached 63 before the first wicket fell.
Having posted 457 in the first innings and securing a lead, there was the hope that like the two Test series in Australia, West Indies would have shrugged off the bogey of the first Test debacle and repeat the Australia miracle.
It appeared on the cards, for some time, up to midway on the fourth afternoon, a distance that many never thought about.
In what has become more of the norm, the West Indies engineered a major collapse to the extent that West Indies fan don’t’ want to think about.
There seems to be an absence of dedication and application by Caribbean batsmen. Coaches have their work cut out to correct that shortcoming. Whatever the incentives might be, there has to be an effort made to develop batsmen with natural ability and proper technique. We have too much of a record to endure such void for so long.
Greene relishes Olympic Games selection
WHEN17- year-old Vincentian swimmer Kennice Greene hits the pool at the Aquatic Centre, Seine –Saint- Denis, in France, August 3, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, it will be her greatest accomplishment, thus far.
Greene, who received a universality place, having not met the qualifying standards, will compete in the 50m Freestyle and plans to make the best of the occasion.
“I am just going out there to do my best, hoping to improve my times and break the national record in the 50m Freestyle… Mentally, I am focused on doing my best, whilst not putting too much pressure on myself,” Greene revealed last Saturday, July 20, two days prior of her departure for France.
She added, “I have been training for a while now, and for two and a half weeks I was training in Florida with the Azura Camp …The environment there is very good… I trained really, really hard because the coaches were hard on me , making sure that I got my technique right”.
Noting that her final selection was gratifying as she was competing against others for selection, Greene commented, “I know there were other competitors to be selected and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent my country.. “.
In October 2023, Greene represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the Pan American Games, held in Santiago, Chile.
For the 2024 Olympic Games, Greene joins fellow swimmer Alexander Joachim and Handel Roban and Shafiqua Maloney, in making up the Vincentian team to the Paris Games.
Maloney, 25, is the only one with Olympic Games experience, having attended the 2020 Beijing Olympics, held over in 2021,
because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Maloney gained qualification in the Women’s 400m and 800m but opted for the latter at this year’s Olympic Games.
Joachim will swim in the Men’s 50m and Roban will compete in the Men’s 800m.
Joachim goes into action August 1, Maloney August 2 and Roban - August 7
The 2024 Paris Olympics begins Friday July 26 with the Opening Ceremony, and concludes Sunday, August 11.
Richland Park Netball gets going
TWELVE TEAMS, eight in the Junior Division and four in the Senior Division, are contesting the 2024 Marriaqua Sports Committee Richland Park Netball Competition.
G & J Auto Imports Stars, along with Youth Blazers, Conquerors, 3 J’s Valley Strikers, Success Netters One, Valley Youths and Paragon Netball Academy, will be trying to unseat the defending junior champions - JLC Warriors, who undoubtedly will have other ideas.
Likewise, High Park United, TCCU Stars Girls and Success Netters Two, will take aim at High Performance Vultures, the 2023 Senior Division winners.
This year’s edition opened in a blaze of resplendence last Sunday, July 21, at the Richland Park Government School hard court, despite some intermittent showers.
With most of the registered teams present and donning immaculate attire for the March Past and Opening Ceremony, it was one of the Junior outfits, G & J Auto Imports Stars, complete with their banner and cheer leaders, that got the adjudicators’
G & J Auto Imports Stars – the Best Dressed team on parade at the opening of the 2024 Richland Park Netball Competition.
nods as the Best Dressed Team.
Prior to that big announcement, Geshell PetersPresident of Marriaqua Sports Committee, Sean Fredericks - Public Relations Officer of the SVG Netball Association, Hon. Orando BrewsterMinister of Housing, Informal Settlement and Sports, and Parliamentary Representative for Marriaqua - Hon. St Clair Prince, addressed the Opening Ceremony.
The speakers lauded the organisers and stressed the importance of such community activities. Not to be excluded, the many spectators who attended Sunday’s opening were treated to an exhibition match between the Senior Male and Senior Female St Vincent and the Grenadines teams, that are in training for regional/ international engagements. The Male team outpointed the Female team 70-35.
Teams lined up for the opening ceremony.
Matches in the competition take place on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Kennice Greene
The Paris Olympic pool that awaits swimmers Kennice Greene and Alexander Joachim.
Six lucky to be alive
From Backpage
He said that one of the men who was sitting in front of him during the shooting, got up and started to run and he followed behind. “ Shaki was now going to throw out a drink when the shooting started. Is when he get up and run me start to run and Shaki jump behind the car and me jump behind Shaki,” the witness further recalled.
After the shooting ceased, the witness said he noticed that Andy Moses was lying motionless in the street and he feared that Andy was killed. . Luckily Mosses was transported with a degree of haste to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where all the other victims were treated, some discharged others kept for further attention and observation.
Reports are that the remains of the car that allegedly transported the gunmen was found in Ottley Hall. It had been set on fire. A resident of Ottley Hall was vehement in saying, “The car belongs to no one in Ottley Hall!”
The car was reported as stolen the following day.
AI REAL ESTATE
Look in on the area of the shooting from the Gaymes Bookstore entrance. Police cordoned off the area as they begun preliminary investigations.
TO BE ALIVE
by KENVILLE HORNE
EXACTLYone year after gunmen exited an SUV and shot and killed five people at Harbour Club in Kingstown, July 19, the sounds of gunshots rang out around midnight in Paul’s Avenue, the home community of one of the five killed.
When the smoke cleared, six people were left with nursing gunshot injuries of varying intensity. They were part of a group of people socializing in the street, outside the house of Palasa Bynoe, one of those shot during the incident.
The victims were named as follows: Ezekiel George, 40, of Kingstown Park who was shot in his leg; Kanaka Smith, 32, of Paul’s Avenue - shot in her hands; Shakir Dasilva, 42, of Lowmans Leeward - shot in the legs; Palasa ‘Midget’ Bynoe, 42, of Paul’s Avenue - shot in her foot, hand and back; Paul ‘Andy’ Moses, 53, of Campden Park and Canada - shot in his legs and back, and Tesan Moses, of Redemption Sharpes - shot in his back.
The victims were among a group engaged in a sendoff for Paul Moses who was scheduled to leave the state for Canada, the following day.
Possible connection to previous killing
A police source hinted that the shooting incident might be related to the killing of the five males last year. The source said that many of the killings here were related to an ongoing gang war and that Friday night’s shooting was quite possibly an attempted hit job on the relative of
one of the men killed last year, as well as his affiliates.
Based on reports from some of the persons who were in the area at the time of the shooting, they noticed a car attempting to enter the area from the National Lotteries
Authority entrance of the street, but it was not able to venture too far because the area was blocked off.
The car was next observed to have entered the area by way of the Gaymes Bookstore store.
Eye witness account
An eye witness to the shooting, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, told THE VINCENTIAN that he was visiting Paul’s Avenue on the invitation of the friend who was travelling overseas the next day.
He said that he was sitting with the group of people, and he was facing the direction of the Court House in Kingstown when he noticed someone at the corner of Gaymes Bookstore, followed by another individual who walked towards the direction of the Stop Light Restaurant.
Soon after he saw what appeared to be fire crackers. “I saying, who ah thing (blast) fire crackers? So me still dey sit down on the bench. After me see the partner drop a ground and me see the woman who was there running cross the road and me still dey pon the bench, because yo run or sit down, yo still could dead,” related the witness.
Continued on Page 27
OOPS!!!!
We carried the photograph ABOVE on Page 12 of our issue of Friday 19th July, 2024 and captioned it “Lower Bay, Bequia, just after Hurricane Beryl made her exit.”
We acknowledge this was incorrect. It was in fact a photograph of Lowmans Bay on mainland St. Vincent.
For that error, totally the responsibility of the editorial department, we apologise to our readers, especially those in Bequia, to the operators of businesses on Lower Bay, Bequia, who might have been affected by the error, and to the photographer who had correctly captioned the photograph.