THE VINCENTIAN PDF-09-08-24

HOSPITAL SITE PREPARATION BEGINS HOSPITAL SITE PREPARATION BEGINS

The erection of a fence indicates that the area is being demarcated. The first signs of heavy-duty machinery on site.

UPTICK IN COVID: TWO DEATHS

The Hospital is to be sited on the northern side of the runway of the

Continued on Page 3.

ON JULY 26, 2024,Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Taiwanese company Overseas Engineering and Construction Company (OECC), which officially signaled the commencement of construction of an Acute Referral Hospital, otherwise referred to as the Acute Care Hospital, at Arnos Vale.

by DAYLE DASILVA

HEALTH AUTHORITIEShere say that there was an uptick in COVID cases in the country during the month of July, with 89 cases identified.

And up to August 04, according to a disclosure made by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on radio, there were 125 cases recorded in the country for the year so far.

A total of 12 cases have been identified in emergency shelters.

The most recent COVID related deaths occurred between August 1 and 2. The Prime Minister confirmed that an 87-year-old died on August 01, and another elderly person a day later.

Testing is ongoing and once individuals show symptoms, they are immediately removed and taken for treatment. Citizens are being encouraged to get tested and to get

vaccinated, according to Gonsalves. And while there a general uptick in the United States, the region and locally, throughout the region, and in places such as the United States, Dr. Gonsalves said no official restrictions were being enforced although there had been public health notices. The first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed here on March 11, 2020.

Photo Source: API SVG

V News 3

Dengue outbreak confirmed in SVG

THREE YEARS AFTER THE LAST OUTBREAK claimed at least seven lives, the majority being children, health authorities have confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment said on 3rd August, that its ‘Epidemiology Unit has recorded 119 dengue fever cases so far in 2024 and that, of those cases, 23 were in June and 82 last month (July).”

Given that the number of lab-confirmed cases of dengue fever had exceeded the threshold of the number expected,

this indicated, according to officials of the Health Ministry, that there “is a dengue fever outbreak in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

In the circumstances, the Health Ministry has urged the public to adhere to all the basic precautionary measures to prevent the spread of vector borne diseases during the summer vacation.

“As we approach the month of August, the public is reminded that we are still within the hurricane season and August is expected to be hotter than normal.

“These weather

patterns can create ideal breeding sites for the aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito carries dengue fever, Zika and Chik V,” the ministry said in a press statement.

Meanwhile, The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has stressed the need for the region to mobilize in the fight against vector borne diseases as global data points to an increase in suspected cases of dengue.

In a July 26 regional media briefing on its Public Health Emergency Response and Surveillance from Port-

of-Spain CARPHA’s Acting Director Surveillance, Disease Prevention and Control Division, Dr. Horace Cox said for the first six months of 2024, global suspected cases of dengue have increased 200-fold. An active hurricane season, Dr Cox explained, is one of the factors which have led to the surge in cases.

Dr. Cox said that … “it is likely that cases in 2024 would likely surpass cases in 2023. What we’ve seen from the data reported so far globally is that you have

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DENGUE FEVER

Symptoms

DENGUE FEVER SYMPTOMS

start to appear four to 10 days after a mosquito bite and can last three to seven days. About 1 in 20 people sick with dengue will develop severe dengue after their initial symptoms begin to fade. Most dengue infections do not cause symptoms. If a person shows symptoms, these are typical:

* High fever (40°C/104°F),

* Severe headache,

* Pain behind the eyes,

* Muscle and joint pains,

* Nausea,

* Vomiting,

* Swollen glands,

* Rash.

Warning signs of Severe Dengue

Severe dengue is a lifethreatening worsening of dengue symptoms. Warning signs of severe dengue are usually seen 24 to 48 hours after and include:

* Stomach/abdominal pain,

* Frequent vomiting,

* Throwing up of blood or blood in the stool,

* Nose bleeding or bleeding gums,

* Extreme tiredness, restlessness or irritability,

* Liver enlargement > 2 cm,

* Increasing HCT concurrent with rapid decrease in platelet count.

How to manage Symptoms

Managing symptoms is the only way to treat dengue fever. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendation, which may include+

* Keeping yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.

* Getting as much rest as possible,

* Treating pain with acetaminophen(like Tylenol),

* Do not take ibuprofen (like Advil) or aspirin; this can increase your risks of life-threatening internal bleeding.

Source of Information: Cleveland Clinic, USA.

about a 200-fold increase on suspected dengue cases in 2024 as of the first six months, compared to a similar period in 2023.”

And as though to strike a punch where it might matter most, Dr. Cox said, “Unfortunately, perhaps what I could

confirm also is that, based on the data we’ve been looking at, not only regionally, sub regionally, but also internationally, we’ve seen a concomitant rise also in deaths.”

(Sources: MOH/SVG, Loop News).

Hospital site preparation begins

Continued from Frontpage.

decommissioned E. T. Joshua Airport, and the MoU gave the OECC control of that site as of July 31st, 2024.

As at the beginning of this week, there were indications that OECC had taken control of the site, as there were signs of site preparatory work taking place. (See photographs accompanying this article).

The construction of the Hospital, which will offer specialized services in cardiology, urology and ophthalmology, among others, is projected to take 32 months, though the Prime Minister expressed his anticipation for the hospital to be completed in less than 32 months.

Those who have asked about the OECC will be pleased to learn that the company is no stranger to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It was responsible for the construction of the Rabacca Bridge, the National Library and the Terminal Building at the Argyle International Airport.

And according to a release made available to THE VINCENTIAN through the Taiwan Embassy here, the OECC “…plans to prioritize employing local workers, creating job opportunities, and assisting in training skilled labor within Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Both skilled and unskilled local labor will be employed for the construction of the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital.”

Constructing and equipping the hospital is estimated to cost more than US$100 million, and funding is to be sourced from the World Bank under the Regional Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project, and a soft loan from the OPEC Fund for International Development.

A Billion People Will Be Newly Exposed to Diseases Like Dengue Fever as World Temperatures Rise. (Source: Georgetown)

Dwayne Bailey, Acting Superintendent of Prisons.

Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS

THE ISSUEof criminal gangs or groups among prisoners who are serving long sentences or on remand, continues to plague His Majesty’s Prisons (HMP).

Delivering remarks at the closing session of the Criminal Assizes on Wednesday, July 31,

Cole Oliver had to endure more than a year of suspense before learning that he will stand trial in the High Court.

Gangs, violence, mental issues plague prisons

Acting Superintendent of Prisons, Dwayne Bailey, added that he had raised these issues in the past, but the situation has become more acute.

“Those warring factions or groups on the outside do not become innocent angels inside the prison facility.

“As the numbers rise inside of the prison, they present challenges, as it contributes to acts of violence between inmates,”, Bailey said.

He added that “the relentless efforts by

those inmates to possess prohibited articles, including weapons, cellular phones, and drugs impact the security of the prisons, as this growing number of prisoners have to be strategically housed in order to prevent acts of violence against one another.”

Bailey said the situation is further compounded by the increase in the number of inmates with mental health problems, some serving long sentences

for serious offenses, including murder, and several others on remand charged with serious crimes.

“This is, and continues to be of grave concern, as prison officers lack the necessary training to deal with the inmates/patients. This has resulted in them not getting the supervision that is needed,” the prison boss explained. He underscored that the prison is also not equipped, in terms of proper infrastructure, to

Teen to stand trial for murder

A TEENAGEboy will stand a High Court trial on a murder charge he has been facing since July 2023.

On Monday, Senior Magistrate Colin John, sitting at the Serious Offenses Court, committed Cole Oliver, 19, of Golden Vale/Arnos Vale, to stand trial for the July 20, 2023 murder of Golden Vale resident Kemon Orlando Roberts.

The Magistrate’s decision came after overruling a no-case submission from Cole’s lawyer Grant Connell.

The Prosecution had rested its case last week, but the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) was

adjourned to Monday for the lawyer to make the submission.

Connell submitted that the Prosecution, thus far, had failed to put forward any evidence, not even tenuous, for a case of this magnitude.

Prosecutor Renrick Cato won the favour of the Magistrate with his argument that the State had provided sufficient evidence on which the Magistrate could make a decision.

However, Prosecutor Renrick Cato argued that at this stage (PI), the Court needed to make out a prima facie case, and this was done based on the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Magistrate John agreed with the Prosecutor.

After the submission was overruled, the accused reserved his defense.

The Prosecution called ten witnesses, including the investigator, Corporal Henry Hoyte, and Inspector Ashlyn Bristol, who assisted with the investigations.

The Court also heard evidence from a key witness who testified, in camera, via live link, under the

Witness (Special Measures) Act.

Roberts, 28, was shot several times during an incident at Golden Vale on July 20, 2023.

Oliver was also charged with wounding Aaron Cabral of Glen with intent, using a firearm to aid in the commission of an offense, and possession of a firearm without license, all stemming from a shooting incident at Glen on June 15, 2023.

However, during a sitting of Serious Offense Court on April 15 this year, the Senior Magistrate dismissed the gun-related charges, and discharged Oliver on the wounding with intent charges.

a chanceÊ days gone

PEOPLEno longer ‘thief a chance’ to drive without a license, they do so at any time, and anywhere, on a daily basis.

Station Sergeant Kenny Jones, second in command at the RSVGPF Traffic Department, made the observation while prosecuting a matter, at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.

The case involved Antonia Peters, a 24-year-old Restaurant Supervisor of Belair who pleaded guilty to driving the vehicle

PY750 without being the holder of a driver’s license, driving it without due care and attention, and driving it without insurance.

Peters committed the offenses at Campden Park shortly after midday on May 25, during which she got in an accident with a truck.

She admitted to the police that she was not the holder of a driver’s license, and was driving carelessly. She said the owner of the vehicle was intoxicated, and she was trying to help out.

When Senior Magistrate Colin John asked her why she was driving without a license, she said, “When you want to play nice”.

But the Magistrate warned that, “It’s not nice to take risks”.

When asked if she had a learner’s Permit, Peters said she had one, but it was expired.

Station Sergeant Jones described the act as a blatant disregard for authority.

“Gone are the days when people thief ah chance, now people are driving high day time

treat and cope with this growing population, and these inmates can sometimes be extremely disruptive, and aggressive, which poses a danger to the staff and other inmates.

Bailey added that people, inmates, and former inmates continue to find creative means of getting prohibited items into the facilities, but he is hoping that with the increase of staff and some new technology, there would be some improvement in this area.

Bailey also highlighted the significant damage Hurricane Beryl did to the prison farm, destroying plantains and banana fields, and several animals died, but he noted that the

Ministry of Agriculture has made an assessment of the damages, and promised assistance.

As part of the Hurricane plan, the female inmates were transferred to the Belle Isle Facility.

Bailey said this was long overdue, as the accommodation there is far better than their previous location in Kingstown.

The overall prison population now stands at 404 - 396 males and 8 females.

Ninety-two (92) inmates are behind bars in connection with offenses of murder, 64 sent by the Supreme Court, 25 awaiting trial, and 13 on remand, representing 23.2 percent of the prison population.

POLICE ROUND-UP

Threatening language charge

On July 25, 2024, police arrested and charged Monroe Haywood, a 45-year-old farmer of Fitz Hughes, for using threatening language in two separate incidents.

On April 14, 2024, Monroe Haywood allegedly threatened a 29-year-old businesswoman of Fitz Hughes on the Fitz Hughes public road, saying, “ (complainant) ah go kill yo mother(expletive) but ah go see people ah do yo mother(expletive) thing but ah rather kill yo mother(expletive) first.”

In a separate incident on June 4, 2024, Haywood allegedly threatened a 66-year-old farmer of Fitz Hughes on the same road, saying, “you (complainant) ah go shoot you.”

Haywood appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court and pleaded not guilty. He was granted composite bail in the sum of $1,000.00 ECC with one surety and the matter was adjourned to the Chateaubelair Magistrate Court for September 8, 2024.

without a license”, Jones said. He pointed out that this could result in serious accidents and severe injuries.

The Magistrate told Peters that she had committed a serious offense and that the Court could make an order to prevent her from holding a driver’s license in the future.

The Magistrate, however, opted not to do this but advised her to put things in place to get her license.

Peters was fined $500 on each count. She is to pay the $1,500 in two months or go to prison for three months.

Long ago, many youngsters learned to drive by what was called then, ‘thiefing a chance’. Those days are gone.

Vendor charged with wounding

On July 27, 2024, police arrested and charged Oganda Joseph, a 38-year-old Vendor of Vermont, on July 27, 2024, was arrested and charged with the offence of wounding.

Police investigations revealed that the accused allegedly unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 38-year-old self-employed resident of Buccament, by stabbing and scraping her on her face with an unknown object.

The offence was committed on June 20, 2024 in Kingstown. Joseph appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on July 29, 2024. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of $2,500.00 ECC with one surety. He was also ordered to have no contact with the complainant. Disclosure was ordered by October 22, 2024, and care management by December 9, 2024. The trial is scheduled for February 11, 2025.

VINLEC to give credit for overestimation

ST. VINCENT ELECTRICITY SERVICES (VINLEC) will offer credits to customers whose July bills may have been overestimated.

This commitment was made after VINLEC issued a statement indicating that most of its customers will receive an estimated electricity bill for the month of July, occasioned by challenges associated with the passage of Hurricane Beryl, July 01.

Stanley Harris, Manager of Customer Service at VINLEC, while speaking on radio explained that in the days following the passage of the system, meter readers were deployed.

But the challenge according to Harris was that as teams were busy restoring service to customers, the meter readers also started to venture into areas where power was not yet restored.

And consequently, the readers were only able to collect readings from electromechanical meters and not digital meters.

Harris explained that there were two fundamental structures of meters

— digital and electromechanical meters.

“The electromechanical meters can be read, but the digital meters, once there is no power, they will go (power) off,” Harris said.

The data collected by the digital meter is not lost, however. and will show up once power has been restored.

And as the readers crisscrossed the mainland, Harris disclosed that “… what we were identifying is that the quantity of what we call unread was proportionately higher and when our meter reading software module is uploaded into billing, it was creating errors,” said Harris.

“The software is not designed for such large volumes of transfer of ‘unreads’,” he continued,

But, the software, Harris said, has in this system a facility where estimates can be done.

In this regard, the system works by looking at each customer’s history and it then makes a projection and uses that number as the consumption

against the numbers of days of the billing period.

Harris added that what would then happen in August is that if it is determined that customers were billed more than they actually consumed, i.e. when the meter reader returns and the reading shows that the units consumed are in fact less than what was estimated, then when the data gets transferred, the consumer will get a credit.

“There can be cases where the estimates may be greater than what your consumption would normally be, it can be lower, or it can be in line,” Harris said.

He said that VINLEC did not use artificial intelligence to estimate bills, nor did the company do anything untoward.

But during abnormal times, such as what occurred in July with the passage of a Category 4 system, VINLEC had to take certain actions.

“The hurricane came and changed the dynamics,” he said. (DD)

Stanley Harris, Manager of Customer Service at VINLEC, sought to explain the process involved in arriving at estimate readings for July, for some customers.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Political Emancipation

ANOTHER AUGUST 01has come and gone and while there are many who would want to level some blame on the mass media for the lack of focus given to the significance of the day, the sad truth is that the fire that lit the wave of public demonstration to mark the day has long burned to cinders; those in the vanguard of times past have become comfortable in their cozy positions in government and the private sector or in the armchairs of retirement/repose.

Needless to say, while we speak of reparations that refer directly to what we should be celebrating on August 01, we are at one and the same time speaking of the Emancipation journey as being far from complete, as we continue to endure inhibiting mental and political trappings.

And seeing that we are into talking about Emancipation, let us admit up front that this country and many like it, will remain nothing but an abstraction if we do not recognize and condemn the obstructive and unjust parliamentary structure, under which we are governed; a structure where laws are formulated to advance our well-being and protect our rights and freedoms, but which in a cultural sense deny our emancipation, denigrate our dignity.

We cannot expect to be a culturally emancipated people unless we are politically emancipated and until our dignity and respect are not mere words of convenience, we will never see/experience true political emancipation.

And that political emancipation becomes almost an illusion when we consider that our inherited Westminster system, which purports to be a type of parliamentary government, has led us to accept the concept of separation of powers among the executive, legislative and judiciary. This, the originators advance, is to guarantee fairness and accountability by having the executive accountable to the legislative.

Is this so? The reality is that the executive (ministers) comfortably sits and controls the legislature. Furthermore, the head of the executive is also the political head of the legislature. What else can we expect other than a legislature that protects the executive.

Is this the democracy we shout about and embrace as the ‘right system for us’? If it is, and it appears that is the case, then all the more reason why we need political emancipation.

When will we see a plan?

The irony is that all our Prime Ministers have understood and understand this dilemma. They have all been aware of the challenges of mismanagement which the system throws up.

And our leaders have all read or are privy to the international and regional reports that warned that the longer we take to fix the parliamentary and political system, the longer current problems (like crime) will continue and therein, worsen.

UNDP reports dated back to the early 21st century, advocated accountable and genuinely representative governments. One of its early reports (2002) stated: “Politics is as important as economics to successful development. It also requires that “poor people also have political power.”

Of course, that might be controversial, but we should not feed a political system and culture that have poor people perpetually begging, or awaiting on handouts from the executive?

Sometime, somewhere down the road we just might end up with an alienated and very angry population.

We can recall also an IDB expert team, headed by Sir Alister McIntyre and including William Demas and Frank Rampersad, in 1993, developing a strategic plan for Trinidad and Tobago. Proposals were made for crime reduction, job creation, social welfare and subsidies reform, reducing rural-urban inequity, improving government performance and accountability etc., that were all relevant to the rest of the region.

Who listened? Who cared? Trinidad and Tobago, a la Dr. Eric Williams, removed its hearing aid. Worse, no other CARICOM country thought about adopting/applying some of those proposals. That report joined the heap. Today, over 30 years after, we are seeing the results of ignoring that report.

And we must not exclude from this reference the complaints and proposals about SVG’s deteriorating social conditions that come from editorials, print and electronic commentaries and media letters, but with no positive results. Elected officials are too insulated. They don’t have to listen. That’s the noose of our political system.

And when the executive fails to listen to good advice, the country suffers.

IN THE ABSENCE OF A PLANfrom the government, I was thinking about when the Opposition would give us their strategy for dealing with crime in our beloved country. So naturally, I was excited when I saw an article a few months ago by Representative Leacock that led with the following statement: “I want to speak to you about how we can make our country safe again.” After wading through the usual political rhetoric and the random generalized statements about murder, praedial larceny, domestic violence, and crimes inflicted on the tourists on yachts, I found very little about which to be hopeful. The plan offered was remarkably short in anything new and different, just more of the same thing, just bigger and better–more police, bigger jails, longer sentences, more homes for victims of domestic violence, etc.

service appointments. They will become “employees with a contract that can be terminated for cause (failing to meet stated performance standards). These contracts should be renewable, not exceeding five years, and include a buyout clause.

We need to appoint and fund more independent magistrates, and yes, not retired police officers. People arrested by the police must be able to see a magistrate/judge on their initial booking within twenty-four (24) hours. This system in which the Chief of Police can issue bail to defendants, could be (is?) the root cause of corruption.

The current practice of continuous delay and extension of time for defendants to receive their day in court must be discontinued. Justice delayed is justice denied! The DPP cannot continue adjusting charges to individuals years after the initial arrest.

I will not pick apart the NDP plan; I will leave that to the ULP folks. I am just happy to know the NDP is discussing the issue. After all, we cannot solve a problem if we don’t acknowledge it exists. I can only hope that Representative Leacock’s thoughts on this are not the full extent of the NDP plan for solving the killing spree we are currently experiencing in SVG.

As a person who advocates for smaller government and a limited role for the elected representatives, I found it lacking creativity beyond increased spending. I find it difficult to understand or justify a separate ministry for National Security. I think a qualified professional in public safety will better serve us, especially since we seem tied to a structure where Police and Firefighters are considered one unit. It is time we get away from a system that perpetuates the appointment of a politically compromised individual to lead a department headed by an unqualified elected official. Friends, it’s not working.

Here are some thoughts on improving public safety in SVG:

First, we need to appoint a Director of Public Safety with full authority to hire and dismiss the chiefs of police, fire, and the coast guard. That is, the Director of Public Safety would be responsible for recommending the hiring and firing of these individuals to the cabinet or parliament. Those elevated to these positions can no longer be eligible for the standard protection afforded to public

It is time for our police officers to be equipped with bulletproof vests. Every officer must attend at least forty hours of continuous training annually. This training should include de-escalating situations, conflict resolution, and nonlethal ways to effect an arrest. They must also be trained to conduct interrogation and report writing and, of course, exposed to relevant sections of the laws.

Police officers must be encouraged to participate in a variety of community events. It’s time to get away from simply fielding a team of officers in various sporting events. How about encouraging officers to become members of multiple teams? This process will provide more significant interaction with the community. We must promote and sponsor community block watch groups and get to know our neighbour’s community events.

And the government should offer a waiver of all taxes, including VAT, on the purchase of home security systems. In short, I am disappointed in what was presented to us as a plan for making SVG safer again, but it is more than we have seen from the current administration. And please don’t get me wrong, the things I am rambling on about are by no means a plan, just ideas that should be considered in the eventual formation of a plan.

I would expect a comprehensive plan public safety plan to address homelessness, mental health issues, and truancy issues in schools.

Horatio.

V Same old khaki pants

I DO NOT APOLOGISEfor what I have to say, and I thank you for allowing me to say what I have to say. When I look at the two political parties here, and the people they have to present as candidates, I am not encouraged about a bright future for either of the parties. It seems, for example, that the best the NDP can offer St. Vincent and the Grenadines at this point in time is a group of ‘vintage politicians’,

who have been strained by the weight of carrying the party through five defeats, but who will carry the weight into the next general election.

You might say they have Shevorn John, Laverne Gibson-Velox and even Fitz Bramble. But, the core, the nucleus of the party remains the same as it was twenty years ago. Is this any hope for the future?

Then there is the ULP

with its leader who is well passed his bedtime. He has brought to the fore his son, Camillo, and the likes of Carlos James and Saboto Caesar, but all he has done is to offer a bunch of arrogant young men who have yet to prove they have a genuine feeling for the people, and that they do not have personal agendas.

A pity that the ULP didn’t see it fit to give a young man like Luke

Browne a “safe seat” as they did Camillo. Maybe the lead didn’t think Luke had strong leadership qualities like his son. Luke, I am certain, would have benefitted much more, i.e. learned so much more from his outings at the polls, albeit losing ones, that Camillo would have in victory. Whatever, not giving Luke an “easy passage to Leadership”, might just be a mistake that the

Motorcycles on our roads

I WANT TO SAYthat twenty years ago there wasn’t half the number of motorcycles we have presently in SVG. And I dare say, the type of bikes that the young men ride today is far faster and noisier than what they used to be when I was a teenager. I want to appeal to the motor bike riders to be mindful of those of us who drive motor cars. Just the other day, I was

driving up Back Street at a reasonable pace when ZOOOM!!! Up came a motor bike that flew past me while balancing on the white (dividing) line. The breeze and noise that bike left as it made its way along the white line frightened me. Thank God I did not lose control of my vehicle. And thank God the motor bike man did not lose his balance. Like many of the riders in

SVG, I must say, he was a good rider.

But, this does not take away from the fact that too many of our motor bike young men ride at very fast speeds and do a number of things on the road, like overtaking without caution, which is not safe.

I have nothing against motor bikes, but the riders must be mindful that they do not own the

roads. And the traffic cops must stop using the white lines when they have no need to, like in an emergency.

By the way, for all of us who use the roads, it is useful remembering that the user of the roads ‘is not safe when he reads the traffic signs, but when he obeys them’.

Senior Citizen

Mental Health is vital

ADOLESCENCE is a crucial period for developing social and emotional habits important for mental well-being. These include adopting healthy sleep patterns; exercising regularly; developing coping, problem-solving,

The last days to come

I WANT TOtell Christians and preachers who are saying that we are living in the last days, that we are not. The world has four more thousand left, before you can see that.

The era between Adam and Jesus is over the halfway stage, which is 8 thousand years… four thousand years left before living in the last days. There are two governments that run the world. One is controlled by God, which is democracy, and the other is controlled by Satan, which is communism.

When the world reaches 12 thousand years, Jesus will come back to earth for the second time. The communist government will get all the nuclear weapons from America to fight the Armageddon war for one thousand years, then people will be living in the last days. By the end of thirteen thousand years, Satan and the demons are gone forever. Then all the wars and killing will stop. The fourth world will appear, which will be the fourth heaven, and the third world will disappear which is hell.

Heaven will be in America, hell will be located around the Black Sea, which is Russia, for one thousand years, where God would have destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.

and interpersonal skills; and learning to manage emotions. Protective and supportive environments in the family, at school and in the wider community are important.

I’ve seen too many young people on the street looking lost, living and sleeping on the streets, the result of the pressure they have to endure from society.

I’ve seen teenagers with CXC passes now going to College but who carry with them childhood trauma they have not been able to get over; some who face social distress; some who have had and some who border on nervous breakdowns.

When are we going to get Therapists and Guidance Counsellor to help our young people to stay or get on the right path?

The common denominator in this challenge is maintaining mental health.

ULP might come to regret.

Questions remain: Where is the youth, new blood within the parties that is supposed to reenergise them and politics in general? Is the leadership (of both parties) unable to attract bright young people who are ready to serve because they are unwilling to give up the reins of power?

Only time will tell what happens in the future but for now, I am more disillusioned than I

am encouraged by the face of our politics.

Thomas

We need to listen to our young people, guide them on the right path and be their support especially when they are going through rough times. We have to build Support Groups to guide/lead our young people on the right path.

Passionate and Sympathic

I GOT TOthinking recently. Since 2001 we have had six Commissioners of Police. Mind you, Osborne Quow who was Commissioner when the ULP won the March 2001 general elections, was out of office by May of that year, but he cannot be excluded from this count.

So, Mr. Editor, we have had six Commissioners over the last 23 years. And by the way, for most of those 23 years, we had the same Minister of National Security, i.e. the same Minister in charge of the police.

My question as I reflect on this is whether or not the Police Force, with six Commissioners over the last 23 years, has become more efficient. Has policing in this country improved? Has the attitude of the police got worse over the last 23 years? Has the administration within the Police Force improved?

Other than a significant increase in numbers, more opportunities for training, new units like the Black Squad, increase in the number of police vehicles, new and modern police stations, has there been any real improvement in how our Police Force goes about its business?

Somewhere along the way, I think we forced out too many officers who could have made a difference during the last 23 years.

Charles, Edinboro.

The Three Rs and the Development Programme rolling into place

Three Rs: Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction, and more

THE PROCESS OF RELIEF, RECOVERY, AND RECONSTRUCTION[Three Rs], post-Hurricane Beryl, continues apace. Accompanying the Three Rs, nationally, is a scaling-up of the central aspects of the pre-existing developmental programme as detailed in the Capital Budget for 2024.

In the extant circumstances, the capacity, in every material particular, of the public and private sectors is being stretched to its limits. The relevant government agencies and public officials, including the Prime Minister, have been calling for all building contractors, skilled and unskilled workers to come forth to be actively engaged in this historic national venture of relief, recovery, reconstruction, and sustainable development.

The assistance from regional and international agencies on the ground in respect of relief, even for short periods, is very much appreciated. We appreciate, too, the voluntary, and commercial, efforts of local and foreign business enterprises and individuals to be integral to the process of the Three Rs.

Given the estimated cost of relief, recovery, and reconstruction amounting to EC $800 million, huge financial and technical resources are still required to be mobilized. As always, though, for the optimal outcomes of the Three Rs to be realized, we in SVG must be united and in solidarity with each other, and possessed of abundant Faith, Fresh Hope, and Love! Infantile divisiveness based on politics, creed, vanities, personal agendas, greed or whatsoever is to be avoided at all costs. And we need a continuing patience, calm, yet urgency in pursuance of the central tasks-at-hand.

Relief continues

The shelters throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines are in operation; so, too the accommodation in private homes for evacuees, especially from the Southern Grenadines. Food is sufficient, and in many cases, abundant. Water in the devastated areas continues to be available in sufficient quantities, though fragile, and of good quality, including bottled water for drinking. Basic security and public health in the affected areas are sound, though challenging.

As at July 31, 2024, there were 1,331 persons in 72 emergency shelters, fortyfour of which are listed shelters by the government and twenty-eight are operated by non-governmental entities but fully supported by the government. Of the 1,331 shelterees 711 are on St. Vincent, 52 on Bequia, 95 on Canouan, 44 on Mayreau, and 429 on Union Island.

According to the data from the National Private Home Placement Registry, opened on July 10, 2024, at the Ministry of National Mobilisation, households in private homes placement are as follows: on St. Vincent, from St. Vincent:2,720; on St. Vincent, from Union Island: 618; on St. Vincent, from Bequia: 122; on St. Vincent, from Canouan:147; on St. Vincent, from Mayreau:30. Please note that these are households; on average there are just over 3 persons per household. The data in the Registry of persons on St. Vincent from St. Vincent point to the fact that significant numbers of persons register in order to receive the substantial benefits offered such as food, bottled water, and mattresses, even though some were probably not directly impacted by Hurricane Beryl. The Ministry is seeking to interrogate the data in this regard without in any way depriving persons of the requisite benefits.

Twenty-one persons, mainly elderly,

have been placed in guest houses.

Recovery apace

The recovery continues apace. A snapshot of this recovery includes: (i) On Union Island: The clean-up is progressing well. Two contractors engaged by BRAGSA employ nearly 600 persons in the aggregate. A barge of the waste materials (mainly galvanise sheetings) has already been shipped to the scrap-metal dealers in Trinidad. More barge loads are to be taken from Union, Canouan, and Mayreau.

On Tuesday August 06, 2024, an additional 80 or so workers were ferried to Canouan to assist further with the cleanup campaign; this is to continue daily for another two or three months in the first place. St. Vincent and Canouan are being used as veritable “Beach Heads” to facilitate the recovery and reconstruction efforts. This use of Canouan as a “beach head” is a joint initiative by a wealthy Trinidad-British home-owner in CARICOM, Mr. Ian Wace and his REACT team and the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Experienced former British army personnel and logistics experts are leading Vincentian workers in this exercise. This initiative is to be ramped up to include reconstruction of buildings in tandem with BRAGSA. As living conditions in Union Island improve, more and more workers will be resident there for the recovery and reconstruction. Some 80 solar lamps have been installed at various points on Union Island so as to engender community and social activities in the night.

VINLEC is working assiduously to restore-electricity. The plan is to have electricity available to the main government facilities fit to receive electricity by the end of August in the Clifton area, hence moving towards Ashton. The overall build-out will then follow a natural progression of the availability of electricity, to buildings fit to receive electricity, by the end of 2024 onwards.

The repairs on the Union Island Secondary School are scheduled for completion by the end of August. Contractors/builders are being sought for the repairs/rebuilding of the Stephanie Browne Primary School and for the startup of the new building for the Mary Hutchinson Primary School. Works on these are commencing very shortly; the former is likely to be ready for school on September 2024. The Ministry of Housing sent a substantial shipment of building materials to Union Island on Monday August 5th. Housing repairs are to start there shortly; and then be ramped-up.

(ii) On Canouan the clean-up is more or less completed. Work has been, and is being done, on the primary and secondary schools; the Administrative Building; the clinic and doctors’ quarters; and two or three others. At least ten private homes are being rebuilt/repaired currently. Electricity is available to all government buildings, including the airport. As houses are rebuilt, they will become connected to the electricity grid. The bulk water system is still fragile and is being addressed by CWSA in concert with one private sector investor. The efforts of a wealthy homeowner in Canouan have been significant. The schools are expected to be ready to receive students in early September. Substantial quantities of building materials have been sent to Canouan to effect repairs to essential government buildings first.

Continued on Page 23.

We will do more to support athletes

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) congratulates Shafiqua Maloney, Handal Roban, Alexander Joachim and Kennice Greene who have represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the Olympics Games in Paris.

The nation was more focused on Shafiqua Maloney after she qualified for the finals of the women’s 800 metre race. She did exceptionally well. She placed 4th. Her performance was a testament of her hard work, dedication and perseverance. Shafiqua made the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines proud. Vincentians at home and abroad celebrated her performance.

However, the story of her struggles leading up to the Olympics resurfaced, which ignited heated discussion of the failure of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government to assist the young athlete. It shows that the ULP government is taking our athletes for granted with its halfhearted policy on sport.

It would appear that Shafiqua’s struggles are far from over. In an article by Evelyn Watta, on olympics.com, Shafiqua was quoted as saying, “I don’t know about going forward. I haven’t paid my coach for months. I don’t have a contract, so hopefully that’ll be something in the future...I’m just taking it one day at a time.” Despite her challenges, it was a remarkable journey to the Olympics for this young athlete. She has shown that with determination and resilience anything is possible.

National Athlete Program

Our National Athlete Program is designed to offer athletes financial support on an ongoing basis. The NDP has contrasted this with the government’s piecemeal approach to support athletes. This new approach will be delivered to the whole country.

This program will create a national program, similar to the National Scholarship Program to support local athletes to reach their true potential. The ULP government has continually neglected to develop our country’s sporting talent. One-off sponsorship to particular athletes is simply not good enough and a new approach is required.

The program will ensure that elite athletes, established and emerging athletes have financial support to reach their goals, with the knowledge that they are able to train, compete and have their best chances to win. These hard-working sportsmen and sportswomen deserve our support to achieve their goals brining joy to us all and glory for our country.

The National Athlete Development Program is a part of our ongoing commitment to young people and builds on the Youth Guarantee Pledge which was launched last year by Dr. Godwin Friday. The pledge affirms that by the end of our first term in office, every young person (under the age of 25) will have the opportunity of a job or further training or internship to help lead to a job.

Programs such as these will help unlock a brighter future for young Vincentians who for too long have been neglected by the ULP government. The ULP government has promised and promised that something would be done, that a program would be put in place, but has failed to deliver.

We acknowledge that in order to excel, athletes need to make the sacrifice with limited resources to be able to represent our country and make our nation proud. The present

ad hoc approach has failed our sportsmen and sportswomen, proving that a new approach is needed to develop our country’s sporting talent. The National Athlete Program will do just that. Other OECS countries are using these types of programs to bring success to their country. Under an NDP government, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will do the same.

By developing sporting talent, we can build interest in sports in our country, which can be used to grow our sports tourism and wider tourism industry. From that, we will see an increase in demand for hotel accommodation, transportation services, food and beverage, entertainment, television and media coverage, advertising and health and medical services. This all forms part of the new economy, one of the four pillars of economic development, which will provide prosperity to every part of the country.

Sporting Facilities

The NDP will pay special attention to the development of sport facilities. We will implement a framework for upgrading and management of sports facilities at constituency and community level. An NDP government will implement a Service, Opportunity and Support framework, which will ensure that sporting facilities are upgraded to accommodate their respective sporting disciplines. Community Sport Councils will be developed and sustained, eagerly taking ownership of the maintenance of the established facilities and supporting the programs for physical activity and sport in their respective communities. We will also develop at least one playing field in each constituency to the extent that it can accommodate regionally organized sports. These facilities will be fully lit and will have stands and changing facilities.

We will also develop projects to convert the surfaces of playing fields into artificial surfaces, particularly in areas where grass does not grow properly.

Further, the sport of swimming should be at a much higher level in the competitive arena. As a result, the NDP will construct a National Aquatic Centre to attract national, regional and international competitions and to grow the sport locally. Other areas of development that the NDP will focus on include the construction of a national indoor sports complex, floored with special sport flooring materials, to accommodate sports such as basketball, volleyball, netball, tennis and squash.

It is obvious that the failed policies of the ULP government have impeded the development of sports in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Therefore, hindering emerging and established athletes from reaching their full potential. The NDP is committed to the development of sports in the country. We will work assiduously to ensure that sport has a prominence on the development agenda. An NDP government will make sport a key part of our new economy, therefore, supporting athletes and building a sporting community for athletes to achieve their potential and further showcase our great people.

Views V

The Power of Words

“Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble.” - Yehuda Berg (born 1972) –American author and former teacher of Kabbalah.

CONVERSATIONS WITH AND AMONG TEACHERSreveal that some school populations appear to be plagued by the unkind acts of bullying. This is not a new phenomenon. Teachers, parents, and concerned individuals, in an attempt to strengthen the resolve of those who may have been exposed to unkind words would have introduced the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never harm me”. While this traditional English proverb was used to convey the idea that physical harm is more significant than verbal insults, it is grossly inaccurate in seeking to imply that words can never engender harm. Words can heal but they can also hurt. They can portray kindness and encouragement, but they can also deflate and discourage.

History is replete with examples of individuals whose words inspired and uplifted individuals and communities. It is noted that Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965), Britain’s World War II Prime Minister, used radio broadcasts to inspire his citizens even as Adolf Hitler’s German planes relentlessly bombed British cities. He inspired hope when conditions appeared to be hopeless. His words were profound and far-reaching.

Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968), the American Baptist minister, activist, and political philosopher, was considered an exceptionally great orator. His words, captured in his “I have a Dream” speech, delivered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on 28th August 1963, galvanized the Civil Rights Movement in the United States of America and continues to inspire many to fight against bigotry, injustice, and inequality.

History records that Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) and Bishop Desmond Tutu (1931-2021) were instrumental in creating and sustaining peace following the dismantling of the apartheid system in South Africa in 1994. Their emphasis on reconciliation and forgiveness continues to inspire many who are vanguards of peaceful demonstrations, resilience, and justice. Their utterances and their life examples remind us of the power of words. Words emanating from caring individuals can encourage people and communities to keep hope alive.

The written word has also been used to inspire and encourage many. Caribbean writers have made significant contributions to literature and, in doing so, have motivated many readers throughout and beyond the Caribbean region. For example, Derek Walcott (1930-2017), the St. Lucian poet and playwright won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1992. His writings and his accomplishments continue to ignite the imagination of Caribbean peoples to strive for excellence and to follow their passions with vigour. Readers have benefited from his works, such as The Caribbean and Omeros, as he vividly described aspects of colonialism, distinctiveness, and cultural heritage; aspects of a rich Caribbean legacy that is enshrined in his words.

The novelist V.S. Naipaul (1932-

2018) of Trinidad and Tobago also used his writings to explore many post-colonial themes and the impact of colonialism on Caribbean societies. His popular novels included The Middle Passage and A House for Mr. Biswas. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001. The Barbadian essayist and novelist George Lamming (born 1927) also used his writings to address several aspects of Caribbean life related to colonialism, migration, and identity. He is recognized for his outstanding literary works such as The Emigrants and In the Castle of My Skin.

These accomplished Caribbean writers have used words to remind us of our rich (though often painful) history. Their words encourage us to excel at our varied noble ambitions and beckon generations yet unborn to aspire to greatness. However, we recognize that there are other Caribbean writers that have used their words to do likewise. Individuals like the Dominican-born writer Jean Rhys (1890-1979), the Barbadian poet and historian Kamau Braithwaite (19302020), and the Haitian-American author Edwidge Danticat (born 1969), have used their words to reflect diverse perspectives on Caribbean life, history, and culture, thereby enriching global literature with their distinctive voices and insights. Their words educate and enlighten readers throughout and beyond the Caribbean, reminding readers of the power of words to ignite imagination and to inspire; transmitting knowledge across distance and time while simultaneously preserving history and culture.

There is wisdom in revisiting the Yehuda Berg quotation that was used to introduce this essay. It is loaded with wisdom: “Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble.” While the previous examples have highlighted the very positive influence that words can have on listeners and readers, it will be remiss to neglect the truism that words can also be used as weapons, capable of inflicting deep and long-lasting wounds and causing immense pain and harm. Modern technology makes it relatively easy for some individuals to engage in hate speeches, propaganda, and the dissemination of misinformation. Such activities may engender violence and sow division. Responsible citizens must forever be aware of the danger of inflammatory rhetoric and to speak out against such utterances by those who may seek to spread discrimination and conflicts among different groups within society. Martin Luther King Junior said it well when he noted that, “The silence of the good people is more dangerous than the brutality of the bad people.” Whether transferred through sincere conversations, FaceBook postings, WhatsApp messages, email messages, or in letters, words have the ability heal wounds, mend broken relationships, and to generate meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging within and beyond communities — reflecting the undeniability of the power of words. Top of Form

We small, but we mighty

EVERY FOUR YEARS at the Olympic Games, Caribbean people get to see themselves as they truly are: a people endowed with beauty, strength, grace and a potential for greatness. In years past, those of us in the smaller islands piggybacked off the prowess and dominance of our Cuban, Jamaican and Trinidadian brothers and sisters. St. Lucia and Dominica emerged at the Paris Olympics, and SVG announced its presence.

Before the Paris Olympics, Cuba’s Alberto Juantoreno, Javier Sotomayor, Theophilo Stephenson, and Mijain Lopez, Jamaica’s ShellyAnn Fraser-Pryce, Elaine ThompsonHerah, Don Quarrie, Usain Bolt, Osafa Powell, and Yohan Blake, as well as Trinidad’s Hasley Crawford and Otto Bolden, took our breath with their heroics.

Grenada’s Kirani James lit the path for those of us in the Windward Islands, winning gold, silver, and bronze medals at the London (2012), Rio (2016), and Tokyo Olympics (2020). At the Paris Olympics, more glory went to these smaller islands with: St Lucia’s Julein Alfred - gold in the 100-meter dash) and silver in the 200 meters; Dominica’s Theo Lafond - gold in Women’s triple jump); and Grenada’s Lindon Victor - (bronze in the Decathlon).

St. Vincent did not medal, but Shafiqua! Oh, Shafiqua Maloney! Her grit, determination, spirit, and heart were inspirational and, hopefully, transformative. The young woman who overcame so much, including unemployment and homelessness, left it all on the Parisian track to finish an impressive fourth in the 800m. She said she was not done, and few would doubt her.

The phenomenal performances of our Caribbean athletes brought back memories of CLR James’ seminal work, ‘Beyond the Boundary’. In that text, James draws a fascinating parallel between the achievements of West Indian Cricketers and ancient Greece’s cultural and athletic accomplishments. James published ‘Beyond…’ in 1963 following the emergence of the great West Indies teams that featured Weekes, Walcott, Ramadin, Valentine, Sobers, and then Sobers, hall and the first black captain, Frank Worrell.

In developing his thesis about cricket’s importance to the region’s social and political development and the making of a dominant culture, James asked, ‘What do they know of cricket who only cricket knows?’ He argues that cricket in the West Indies is not just a sport but a significant cultural phenomenon that reflects the region’s history, struggles and identity, much like how ancient Greek athletics were intertwined with their society and values. James believed that, scaled for size and population, the prowess and creativity displayed by West Indian cricketers on the field were comparable to the excellence of Greek athletes and that these achievements should be celebrated as part of the broader human heritage.

While our cricketers over the last two-plus decades seem not to appreciate the meaning of James’ words, our athletes have embraced the mantra and appear destined to fulfil it as they etch an indelible and impressive mark on the world’s athletic stage.

We are a majestic gem of islands.

Our population is small, and our resources are limited, but our heart is enormous, and our spirit is indomitable.

These achievements do not happen in a vacuum. There is a history and a foundation from which our greatness flows. And that was James’ point. We may think we are standing on our own two feet. No! We are cradled on the shoulders of giants.

Those of us like James who know and understand our history are not surprised by our achievements. Haiti, yes, Haiti, made the world’s first complete break with slavery and inequality following its revolution of 1971 to 1804. After the revolution, everyone was free and equal. We look back today on Haiti with pity and sorrow, but black leaders led the way for universal freedom. Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln had nothing on us. Toussaint, Desallines and Christophe were global pioneers.

When the founders of the USA declared in 1776, ‘we hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal,’ these words had no application to women and enslaved Africans. Neither did the French slogan of ‘liberty, equality and fraternity.’ French colonialism continues to be most devastating, especially in Africa.

Between 1625 and 1838, the Caribbean was the most prized piece of real estate on earth. Its riches, derived from the blood, sweat, and tears of enslaved Africans, were the scaffolding on which modern-day capitalism was laid.

This small region of so few people gave the world George Headley, Weekes, Walcott, Worrell, Kanhai, Sobers, Lloyd, Greenidge, Richards, Lara, Gibbs, Roberts, Holding, Marshall, Garner, and Ambrose in Cricket; Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Third World, Sparrow, Kitchener, Shadow, Machel Montano, Rihanna and Kevin Little in Music; Intellectual luminaries of the calibre of George Padmore, Eric Williams, Arthur Lewis, Walter Rodney, Hillary Beckles, Norman Girvan, George Beckford, and CLR James, and politicians of the international stature of Fidel Castro, Michael Manley and Maurice Bishop, as well as internationally acclaimed writers Nicolas Guillen, Kwame Braithwaite, Nobel laureates Arthur Lewis, VS Naipaul and Derek Walcott.

We have talent and drive. All we need now is a training programme for continued excellence. Just as the slave experience in the US created the Blues and Soul, our Caribbean experience with slavery and colonialism brought forth reggae, calypso and the grit to perform at a very high level.

Once our young people are taught this history and made to realise that their successes are not just theirs, they will continue to achieve excellence. Our governments, business community and those with wealth and power must influence and propel us to greater heights.

The Paris Olympics is proof that we are small but mighty. We are clearly performing way above our ‘weight class’ and more than worth our weight in gold. Send

The Political Arena: Reflections on Emancipation Day and Jomo’s Journey

AS WE CELEBRATE

Emancipation Day, I feel compelled to reflect on the political landscape of our country, focusing particularly on the figure of Jomo. Once a beacon of hope for our youth, Jomo’s political journey has been marked by both promise and profound disappointment.

Jomo’s rise and fall

Jomo was the last good hope for the youth of this country. Yet, he squandered his opportunity when he joined the entrenched elements of the ULP, shattering his political ambitions. Many who sought genuine change from the old status quo

were left disillusioned, wondering who to trust. When he first emerged, Jomo was a beacon of light and a breath of fresh air to the youth of this country. I, too, was captivated by his message, especially his emphasis on Black Consciousness, which resonated deeply with a seemingly comatose Black population of our nation. He was incisive in his critique of the dogmatic ideologies of the ULP and NDP, likening their interactions to the antics of Tom and Jerry, as they engaged in their trivial pursuits.

The People’s

Opinion

Some believe that Jomo’s political career was doomed the moment he joined forces with what they termed the “Gonsalves bandwagon”. They claim he was marked from the sole of his feet to the crown of his head, with no hope of redemption. Jomo was fully aware that the corrupt regime was a facade, devoid of any genuine interest in the welfare of Black people. If they truly cared, they would not have continued the policies of their predecessors, allowing foreign business interests to dominate Kingstown. A sincere leadership would have empowered local

entrepreneurs to thrive just as the Syrian and Chinese businesses have. Instead, the ruling elites have failed the youth miserably, preferring to have them work for slave wages in foreign-owned stores. These same politicians hypocritically lament the plight of Black people, while their actions show no difference from the imperialists of Europe and Asia. They exploit historical Black holidays like Emancipation Day to perpetuate their deceit.

Emancipation Day

True liberation will only be achieved when we establish our own

businesses. It will not come through subservience to Europeans, Syrians, or Chinese. As we celebrate Emancipation Day, I see the relics of white faces among the black congregation, remnants of those brought to these shores by Portuguese and other European slave traders. It is an insult to our ancestors, who bled and died in these West Indies islands, for the politicians to misuse the people’s struggle for their own gain.

A grievous injustice

If a man sees corruption pervading the land and joins that

Ordeal of being homeless

I AM A HOMELESSperson and have been so for ten years. I come from an upper-middleclass family and suffer from mental illness. So, it’s surprising to me that I am still alive. The period 2013-2023 saw daily, no exaggeration, daily attacks, four of which were near death.

I used to report to the police on the more serious attacks but after the report on the beating that had me in a coma, I don’t make reports very often.

I was a champion of the

police in the period immediately after 2007. Then I widened my social horizons with people on the street and was educated on ‘other sides’. When the police measure up to accepted standards, I’ll champion them again.

So, I sleep on the streets.

There are 4 or 5 ‘regulars’ who do so, at the shop entrances near the Central Police Station. (I have other set locations where I sleep). I rest easy near the police Station because of the illusion of police ‘protection’.

system which perpetuates nepotism, bigotry, and victimization, then that man is complicit in oppression. If he assimilates with those committing these grievous injustices and atrocities, he cannot be a just man. An aspiring leader who recognizes the yoke and bondage of the old slave master’s philosophy yet chooses to align with it is no different from the former slave master. However, if he is sincerely genuine, then with time and patience, he would muster the strength to triumph victoriously.

Power to the people!

Carden A. Michael

On Sunday night I got up at midnight and decided to have a smoke. A police officer went to a car in front of me and shone a light in my eyes for two minutes. I asked him why he was doing that. He didn’t respond. A female and a male officer then approached, the female letting me know that they just wanted to verify

who was near the RSVGPF Headquarters. They left, I decided then to go check the clock at SINGER in case it was late enough to start my day. It was 1:00am. I am (now) looking through my books when a police detail in a yellow car drives by and the brusque officer, one of two, the driver asked me who I was, and what I was doing. How I wish the police had been this interested, the other night when criminal ‘Cur-Eye’ absconded with my bag.

I was subject to a nonpenetrative rape by a police officer about 8 years ago. I am now in the 4th year of sex addiction recovery pending a February 2024 slip. I write that because homeless people have shared with me stories of sexual misconduct.

That’s all.

Maloney wished SVG an Olympic medal

got y’all a medal… I really did… I came out here and did the best I could.”

Maloney, who became the first Vincentian to reach a final of the prestigious Olympic Games, noted that heading into the last eight, she was not reckoned as a contender.

“A lot of people counted me out… I think I showed up, showed out and showed in”, she quipped.

The Heritage Square ‘watch party’ was the largest gathering every witnessed at that

including

VINCENTIAN SHAFIQUA MALONEYwas hopeful that on reaching the finals of the Women’s 800m at the 2024 Paris Olympics in

France last Monday, August 5, she would have gifted her country a medal.

Maloney, 25, finished fourth in 1:57.66, milliseconds away from

at least a third spot. Speaking at the end of Monday’s race, Maloney commented, “Of course I wanted a medal, definitely wanted a medal but I came fourth and it is a lot to be thankful for… I wished I

Announcing her name and claim on the world stage, Maloney thinks that she belongs to the world stage, despite the many disadvantages.

“(Reaching the finals and placing fourth) Definitely shows me that

2024- Maloney’s record- breaking year

Invitational, held at the Ansin Sports Complex, Florida, USA.

One week after on April 13, at the Tom Jones Memorial staged at the Percy Beard Track in Gainesville, Florida, USA, Maloney broke Bigna Samuel’s 1994 record in the 1500m.

Maloney’s time of 4:15.30 erased

long, as she clocked 50.75s at the Arkansas Twilight in Fayetteville, USA, on May 3.

Then at the Edwin Moses Legends Meet May 31, Maloney timed 1:59.31 to record her best in the Women’s 800m and lower her own St. Vincent and the Grenadines all-time outdoor record.

I belong here (because) even though I am from a small island, I can represent on the big stage”, Maloney emphasised.

In her heats on Friday, August 2, Maloney placed third clocking 1:58.69, a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines record and her personal best.

That time assured her a place in the semi-final,

Shafiqua

in which she went faster, stopping the clock at 1:57.59 to break her own national record and more so, earn a shot at a medal in the final.

During last Monday’s final, several Watch Parties were set up across St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as Vincentians were hopeful of achieving their first Olympic medal, no matter the colour.

attains many firsts

SHAFIQUA MALONEY

VINCENTIAN- MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER-Shafiqua Maloney will love to relive 2024, as it has proved to be her best ever.

On February 12, Maloney ran her all-time best in the Indoor 800m event at the Tyson Invitational at Randal Tyson Track Centre in Fayetteville, clocking 1:58.69.

Four days later, on February 16 at the same venue, she established the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Indoor mile record, when she timed 4:33.68.

On Saturday, April 6, 2024, she established a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines record in the 600m, when she won the event in 1:23.80 at the Miramar

Samuel’s thirty-year-old record, that stood at 4:20.78. Thereafter, on April 19, at the John Mc Donnell Invitational at Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA, Maloney reset the new St. Vincent and the Grenadines record in the 400m.

In the one-lap event, Maloney clocked 50.94s to erase the previous national best of 51.23s, set by Kineke Alexander in 2014. Her 400m did not last

Maloney was to take off more time on the 400m record, when on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at the 35th International staging of the ‘Sport Solidarieta’ held at the G. Teghill Stadium in Lignano Sabbiadoro, Italy, she set a new meet record with a time of 50.53s, beating the previous meet record of 50.80s set by Barbadian — Sada Williams in 2023.

And, at the Olympic Games, Paris, France, Maloney, on Friday, August 2, stopped the clock in the 800m heats at 1:58.69 and on August 4, in the semifinals, timed 1:57.59, to reset the national record for that event.

came within 0.24 of a second of landing St. Vincent and the Grenadines its first Olympic medal, when she competed in the final of the Women’s 800m last Monday, August 5, at the 2024 Paris Olympics in France.

Maloney’s 1:57.66 at the Stade de France, was bettered by Great Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson who clocked 1:56.72, while silver medallist Tsige Duguma of Ethiopia timed 1:57.15.

At 25 years old,

can be proud of her achievements on the athletics track, and has a bright future ahead of her, all things being even.

Maloney though was on the heels of bronze taker, Mary Moraa of Kenya, whose time was 1:57.42. In the end, the 25-year-old had to settle for the fourth spot, but etched her name in Vincentian sporting history, as the first to reach an Olympic final.

Regionally, Maloney became the best finisher from the English-speaking Caribbean in the 800m, at the Modern Olympic Games that began in 1896. Additionally, she was the first Vincentian woman to get to the semi-finals, when she attained that feat on August 2, as her 1:58.69 earned her that place in local sporting history. Eswort Coombs was the first Vincentian to advance to the Olympic Semi-final round when he did so at the Atlanta Games, held in the USA, 1996. Coombs competed in the Men’s 400m.

Shaffiqua Maloney

Shafiqua Maloney reset the national (SVG) 400m record at the prestigious John McDonnell Invitational held in Fayetteville, Arkansas, April 2024.

Shafiqua Maloney (left front) on her way to establishing a new national (SVG) record for the mile.

Shafiqua Malomney (centre) on one of her 800m national record-breaking runs in Paris, August, 2024.

The mark of a focused athlete who put every muscle, every sinew into her attempt to bring her homeland an Olympic medal.

Shafiqua Maloney was her effervescent self even after she just missed out on a medal in the Paris Olympics 800m.

venue,

events at the height of Vincy Mas activities in the 1970s and 1980s.

LIAT 2020 makes inaugural flight

THE NEWLYformed LIAT 2020 Inc., affectionately referred to as LIAT 20, made its inaugural flight to St. Lucia on Tuesday.

The flight took off at 11:30 am, carrying a carrying a select group of government officials and media representatives, following a launching ceremony at the V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he was pleased to be participating in the event considering the difficulties with LIAT 1974, four years ago.

“I believe that this is a great story of courage, of patience, and of resilience, and perhaps the message to all of us is that notwithstanding the challenges, we should always press on with determination, with optimism, knowing that invariably, there is a brighter future for those who have the courage and resilience to fight whatever obstacles are placed in your way,” he said.

LIAT 1974 Limited, LIAT 20’s predecessor, has been under administration since July 24, 2020, and the new entity has been formed in partnership with Air Peace, a private Nigerian airline founded in 2013.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Browne said Air Peace would be putting in close to US$65 million, while the Antigua and Barbuda government is investing US$20 million in the new venture.

The airline, according to PM Browne, begins its journey with a modest fleet of seven aircraft, focusing initially on key routes connecting Antigua and Barbuda, St. Lucia, and Barbados.

With a conservative schedule of three weekly flights, LIAT 2020 aims to establish a strong foundation before expanding its services.

“We hope to expand LIAT in the

coming years as the demand for travel increases within the region,” Browne said, adding that the company will be a “significant contributor” to the country’s economy.

He said jobs would be created, airport taxes collected as well as improving the tourism product here.

“LIAT will be a net economic benefit to the government and people of Antigua and we are also looking forward to a profitable LIAT, one that could generate profits and one in which, perhaps on an annual basis, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda could look forward to a dividend cheque.

“But in any event, even if it struggles to make a profit, I am absolutely confident that it will be a net economic contributor to the economy of Antigua and Barbuda and my government is absolutely committed to the sustainability, and certainly, the viability of LIAT.”

(Sources: Antigua Observer, Barbados Today, DNO)

The LIAT 2020 aircraft that made the inaugural flight to St. Lucia. (Source: Antigua Observer)

LIAT 2020 Flight Attendants show off their colourful uniforms. (Facebook Photo)

SAMPASA-NA extending its outreach

THE FOUR-YEAR-OLD Saint Martin’s Past Student Association of North America, Inc. (SAMPASA-NA, Inc.), originally established to address the needs of the school and the student population, is widening the reach of its benevolence.

President of SAMPASA-NA, Inc. Ivan Morgan, who led a team to St. Vincent and the Grenadines on a ten-day visit from July 21 to July 31, 2024, explained to the VINCENTIAN:

“Our major intent was to give supplies and assistance to the St Martin’s Secondary School and its students, but we have extended it to other communities as well.”

He noted that the annual trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines proved to be timely as they were able to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl that struck, July 1.

“We are here on a ten-day mission in conjunction with Mount Olive Baptist Church of Centerville Virginia, USA … We shipped 20 commercial bins of food supplies as well as books that were supposed to go to our students on scholarship here and surrounding communities… Some of those supplies went to the people who went through the disaster associated with Hurricane Beryl,” Morgan related.

Beyond the School

As far as assistance beyond the school and students was concerned, Morgan informed, “… we distributed to families on the Windward side, the Leeward side, along with the Bequia Evangelical Church, New Testament Church in Gomea, Grace and Truth in Layou, the Diamond New Testament Church, in addition to a donation of food items to the Salvation Army, whilst members of the Mount Olive Baptist Church handed over 46 solar powered lights to the people of Mayreau and Union Island.”

In addition, the team visited Bonhomme in Stubbs where we they painted a two- story building for a young family, and later handed over some books to the Du Bois Government School.

And, SAMPASA has initiated another humanitarian effort, this time in collaboration with the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH).

The intention here is to enhance the MCMH Blood Donation list. The aim is to “to get our alumni and families to donate on a regular basis.”

SAMPASA-NA, Inc. the organization

SAMPASA-NA, Inc. is “a registered 501 Non -Profit Organisation,” said Recording Secretary Marcus Coombs. He

continued, “… so everything comes back to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, not only St. Martin’s … We have a website where persons can send money to our account, which is sampasa 20@gmail.com... Everything is public, you can see what we do, nothing is hidden… The more we get the more we are able to give back.”

Morgan explained that SAMPASANA, Inc. is “..Alumni based … We take our direction from the Principal of the school Yohance Gibson and his staff …. They do the evaluation of students and bring the list to us (so) we would try to put together packages for them and I think since our existence people are seeing us out there. We are visible in part because of our donors in the United States.”

Noting that the work of the organization hinges heavily on the generosity of donors, Morgan said, “We want to thank our donors, Vincentians throughout the Diaspora, especially in New York.”

Other than annual donations from members and other benefactors, SAMPASA-NA, Inc. hosts an annual Food Sale, a Cook Out and a Bingo. However, Morgan admits more can be done, and in this regard he appealed for “… our Alumni to join us … We make it open to anyone who wants to joins us, come forward, especially Alumni, especially past students … We need to increase that base of that group working.”

Marcus Coombs (right) hands over a quantity of books, to Principal of the Du Bois Government School- Ms. Carmie Williams.

Members of SAMPASA-NA, Inc. and the Mount Olive Baptist Church of Centerville Virginia, USA, painting a dwelling house at Bonhomme, Stubbs.

Ivan Morgan flanked by two members of the SVG Salvation Army which received a donation of food items for its Feeding Programme.

RC Churches condemn Olympics opening ceremony

AS HAS BEENthe case since the inception of the modern Olympic Games, the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics was a grand spectacle, watched by hundreds of millions of people around the world.

Those old enough to remember, will recall with a certain degree of pride the opening ceremonies for the Barcelona 1992 Summer Olympics and the Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympic in which Trinidadian mas designer extraordinaire hand a major hand.

This year the ceremony spanned a four-hour period and instead of the ‘traditional’ parade inside a stadium, the 10,500 or so athletes sailed in a 3.4-mile flotilla of 94 boats down the Paris Seine River.

The French organizers, however, also decided to incorporate a controversial scene featuring drag performers reenacting Leonardo de Vinci’s famous painting, “The Last Supper”.

The scene showed drag artists, each dressed as a different apostle, including French singer Philippe Katerine portraying the Greek god Dionysus. They reenacted the iconic table of the Last Supper, complete with symbolic gestures and modernized costumes.

The Olympic opening ceremony choreographer said the scene depicted a pagan feat linked to the gods of Olympus not

According to the organizers, the ceremony aimed to challenge societal norms and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community’s contribution to the arts and culture.

“We wanted to include everyone, as simple as that….,” the artistic director of the opening ceremony, Thomas Jolly, said.

While many applauded the scene, the French Catholic Church’s conference of Bishops shared their consternation, stating, “Our thoughts are with all the Christians from all continents who were hurt by the outrage and provocation of certain scenes.”

Closer home, the Roman Catholic Church of Belize issued a stern rebuke against the 2024 Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony, describing it as a “’sacrilegious’ affront to Christianity,” and denounced

the portrayal of the Last Supper as a “sleazy sexual innuendo.”

Bishop Emmanuel Gobillard, a spokesperson representing the Holy See for the 2024 Paris Olympics, stated, “The fact that our religion should be mocked is usual, and we are used to blasphemy in France; but the context isn’t the same. In an event that brings together all or part of the population, I found this staging hurtful and out of place.”

The Paris 2024 Olympics Committee has since issued an apology, emphasizing that their intention was never to offend anyone. “If people have taken any offense, we are, of course, really, really sorry,” Anne Descamps, a spokesperson for the Committee said, even as they pointed to the results of the polls that indicated support for the spirit of liberalism.

(Sources: News 5 Belize, DW News)

“The Last Supper” painting by Leonardo Da Vinci.

Controversial Last Supper scene at the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

Missed opportunity

Dear George,

AFTERjust under a year, my marriage is facing numerous problems.

My husband did not like the idea of pre-marital counseling. He brushed it aside and assured me that they are things he can handle and will work on. All of those very issues have come back to haunt us and I’m getting to a point where I do not know if I will be able to handle much more of it.

Here are some of the problems we are facing:

One month before the marriage, a woman accused my husband of getting her pregnant. He denied it. Today the baby is here and my husband is indeed the father.

My husband was owing money to three different people. He assured me he would deal with it before the marriage. Now, one of the persons is threatening his life.

My husband claimed to be a social drinker now he is a full blown alcoholic and has become very abusive.

It has got to a point where I don’t know which problem to tackle first. I

am beginning to think it is better I just cut my losses and just walk away.

Losing Hope

Dear Losing Hope,

You had the perfect opportunity before marriage to take precautionary action, but you chose to believe in the empty promises of your husband.

As it is now, you are dealing with two major diseases - alcoholism and abuse - that could potentially destroy your marriage, and it’s going to take superhuman effort to dig your way out. It is not impossible to do so but you will have to decide whether or not you are up to this task.

I suggest you immediately get the help of a marriage/relationship counselor and pray for a practical solution.

George

My village ram husband

Dear George,

WHENI thought that the only problem I had to deal with was an affair my husband had with my best friend, I had to think again. Not only did he get her pregnant but I found out he got two sisters pregnant and is being implicated in about three other pregnancies.

When I confronted him he denied all but one affair.

I’m very concerned about him giving me a

STD, and because of that I have stopped sleeping with him. He has refused to get tested for anything that’s sexually transmissible and that has enraged me even more. I plan to tell him I’m done but don’t know how.

Very hurt

Dear Very hurt,

Your husband has a serious problem with commitment, especially to marriage.

Expecting him to make a turnaround from his wayward ways is equivalent to you waiting at the cruise ship terminal for your plane to land.

You may very well have to cut your losses and so avoid a lifetime of grief and stress. You can of course choose to stay with him but it is going to be difficult or almost impossible to teach an old dog new tricks.

George

Cheating on my husband

Dear George,

WHILEvacationing in Barbados, I got involved with the cousin of the friend with whom I was staying. My friend’s cousin lived with her. Neither my husband nor I knew this beforehand.

Our sexual involvement was unplanned but it has left me light headed and bamboozled.

Now that I am back home, I have found that I no longer enjoy sex with my husband, and he has noticed it. I love my husband but anytime he touches me I think of this young stallion who is twenty years younger than my husband.

I want things to go back as they were but I’m doubtful that’s going to happen anytime soon.

Still floating

Dear Still floating,

As long as you keep fantasizing about your Barbadian buck, it is going to be difficult if not impossible to plough your way back to the glory days of your relationship. The guilt of your actions and the bliss moments of your affair will block you from experiencing genuine moments of excitement in your marriage. You may not want to hear this, but getting things (your marriage) back to where they were, must begin with you coming clean with your husband. Are you up to it?

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Digestive disorders will be a result of family squabbles. You will benefit through hidden assets and property investments. Avoid conflicts with in-laws or other family members. Now is the time for completing hobbies that you've been working on for a long time.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Find out exactly what's expected of you and you'll be surprised to find out how capable you are. Sign up for courses or join fitness clubs. Based on your excitement, serious-minded individuals will be more than interested in backing your ideas. Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Try to take some time to listen to their complaints, and in turn, do something to appease them. Don't offer to pay for others. Voice your opinions and contribute to the de bate. Advancement can be yours if you are assertive in your approach.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Insurance pay outs, tax rebates, or just plain luck. A long, quiet walk alone may help you sort out your thoughts. Avoid joint ventures and steer clear of groups that want you to contribute financial assistance. Friends and relatives may not understand your needs.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas. Get involved in jobs that require creative input. You can win points with both peers and superiors. Do things you enjoy instead of being a chameleon. Have a heart-to-heart talk with family and find out what the problems are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Your compassion will be appreciated more than you can imagine. Be sure to get involved in self improvement programs that will bring you in contact with interesting people. You must watch your tendency to spend whatever you make. You must not lead someone on or show interest in them for the wrong reasons.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Don't let others put unreasonable demands on you. Short trips to visit others will do the whole family a world of good. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity. Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Try spending the day catching up on any responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Don't confront the situation if you don't feel you can keep your cool. You must act quickly. Matters pertaining to work must be completed before you leave.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Don't go out of your way, and don't let these unexpected guests cost you money. Opportunities will develop through those you encounter while attending organizational events. Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. If you can't get ahead in the company you're with, perhaps it's time to move on.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Do not confront situations unless you are sure you have a good understanding of the dilemma. Take part in stimulating debates that will allow you to show off your intelligence. Lovers may prove unworthy of your affection. Travel may change your attitudes with regard to your philosophy.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)

Family talks may get a little combative. You can make wonderful contributions to any organization that you join. You can make it up to them later. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

You will learn a great deal from the foreigners you meet. You will be in an overly generous mood this week. Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. You will be able to close any deals successfully.

ACROSS

1.Burrowed 4. __ black 7. Source of poi 11. Oil cartel acronym 13. Bard’s “before” 14. Baldwin of “The Aviator” 15. Papa’s partner 16. Sought elected office

17. Sentry’s call 18. Greek letter 20. Schuss 22. Jewelry box item

25. Caesar’s “and others” (2 wds.)

28. Misfortune

29. Greek letter

30. More kind

32. Bunny maneuver

33. Elderly

35. Plaything 36. Late hour (2 wds., abbr.)

39. “__ It Be” (Beatles song)

41. One, in French

42. French “she”

43. Resells tickets

45. Chem. rm. 47. Hilo garland

48. Woodwind 51. Hospital diagnostic tool (abbr.)

53. Nursing course (abbr.)

57. Penalty indicator 58. Lacking rosy cheeks

59. Marathon unit 60. Small child 61. That gal 62. League for the Eagles (abbr.)

DOWN

1.Champagne producer __ Perignon 2. “__ Lazy River” (2 wds.)

3. Jewel 4. Joshua’s battle

5. Big Band __ 6. Billfold items

7. Pacific paradise 8. __ king (2 wds.)

9. Aunt or uncle (abbr.)

10. Trick or treat mo. 12. Mob VIP 19. Dip in liquid 21. Documen-

tary maker Burns 22. Pioneer Daniel 23. Drive back 24. Valleys’ opposites 26. Behave badly (2 wds.)

27. Jaworski and Trotsky 28. Question word 31. Seeded bread 34. Turn down 37. Declare to be true 38. “Cry __ River” (2 wds.)

40. Edison’s initials 44. Neeson of “Schindler’s List” 46. Autos made in Munich

48. Frequently, in verse

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

49. Journalist Nellie __ 50. Hardwood tree 52. Fan’s cry 54. Author Anais 55. Landon of politics 56. __ Aviv

Dublin, Delpesche take national TT titles

THERE WAS NO CHANGE as far as who the top senior male table tennis player in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was concerned.

There was, however, a change at the top of the female category.

When the curtains came down on the SVG Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA) organized 2024 National Table Tennis Championships last weekend at the West St. George Secondary school, Damion Dublin had successfully defended his Senior Men’s Singles title.

On the other hand, defending female champion, Leah Cumberbatch, had to

vacate her place to make room for new championShanecia Delpesche.

In a best of seven sets, Damion Dublin beat Sean Stanley 12/10, 11/5, 14/12, 11/6, to claim a fifth consecutive national title. He had beaten Zayden Cyrus in five sets, while Sean Stanley beat Romano Spencer in four sets, in their respective semifinals.

In the Women’s Open Singles finals, Shanecia Delpesche came from being 3 sets down to beat former champion Leah Cumberbatch in a hardfought seven-setter.

In the Semifinals, Shanecia Delpesche disposed of Jessica

McCarter in straight sets (3-0) and Cumberbatch beat Louhkya Premraj, defending Under-13 and Under-15 Girls champion, by a similar margin.

Caleb Howard lived up to his billing when he took the Junior Boys title. He beat Lamont Gregg 3-1 in the finals of that playoff.

Oran-Jay Williams laid claim to the PreCadet title when he beat Keron Huggins, 2-0, in the best of three finals.

In the Cadet Boy finals, Lamont Gregg beat Macahlie Hazelwood 3-1, to take that title.

Cumberbatch was not going home without a title, and she teamed up

Louhkya Premraj was voted the most outstanding female player of the Championships.

with Jessica McCarter to ensure that she did. The pair beat Unica Velox and Shanecia Delpesche3-0, in the finals to take

Lamont Gregg- the most outstanding male player.

a lien on the Female Doubles title.

In the Males version of the Doubles, Romano Spencer and Tykel Pierre beat Zayden Cyrus and Sean Stanley 3-0, to take that title.

SVGTA completes 10s/14s Championship

IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES thrown up by the passage of Hurricane Beryl, the SVG Tennis Association was able to successfully complete the Vincy Chatoyer’s Tennis Championship over the weekend, at the National Tennis Centre at Villa.

The Championship attracted participation from St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, St. Kitts, India, Great Britain, El Salvador, Antigua and Cuba and host St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Of particular interest were the 10 years and 14 years categories which comprised the early round of the Championship.

On the court, Vincentian Zayden Charles got the better of Zion Byfield-Grant of Great Britain to take the Boys 10 Singles, and in an all-Vincentian final, Nakayda Cain got the better of Zhordanne Jack to win the Female 10 Singles.

Charles then teamed up with David Mei, a Russian national resident in SVG, to take the 10s Combined/Mixed Doubles by beating the pair of Cain and Jack.

In an all-Barbadian Boys 14 Singles final, Dimitri Kirton defeated Zane to add that title to his Barbados National U-14 title.

In the Boys 14 Consolation Singles final, Jaiden Gormandy of Trinidad defeated Krish Puga of Cuba. Mateo Gutierrez of El Salvador and

Giovanni Quinn of Antigua beat the Barbados pair of Dimitri and Zane Kirton to claim the Boys 14 Doubles title.

There was some redemption for former National Singles champion Sean Stanley. He paired with Videl Charles to hand a 3-2 defeat to the pair of Louhkya Premraj and Romano Spencer, in the finals of the Mixed Doubles.

And when the adjudicators were finished their deliberations, Louhkya Premraj and Lamont Cregg were named the outstanding young female and male players respectively, of the 2024 National Championships.

Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN

The Girl’s 14 Singles was won by Shreya Rawat of St. Kitts over Jaelyn Henry of St. Lucia, while in the all-Vincentian Girls 14 Consolation Singles finals, Danelle Kennedy defeated Madissen Gonsalves.

Darryl Pope of SVGthe Most Improved player.

In the Girl’s 14 Doubles title match, Jaelyn Henry of St. Lucia and Danelle Kennedy of SVG paired to hand defeat to the St. Kitts pair of Laila Harris and Shreya Rawat from St Kitts.

The most improved player was Darryl Pope of SVG.

Activity now shifts to the 18-yearolds in the NLA/SVGTA-ITF Junior Tournament.

Giovanni Quinn of Antigua (left) and Mateo Gutierrez of El Salvador – Male 14s Doubles Champions.

Jaelyn Henry of St. Lucia (left) and Danelle Kennedy of SVG -Girl’s 14 Doubles Champions.

Damion Dublin took the men’s singles title.

Shanecia Delpesche took the women’s singles title.

Name Diamond Facility after Shafiqua

MAJOR ST. CLAIR LEACOCK,New

Democratic Party (NDP) Member of Parliament for Central Kingstown, has called for the Diamond Track and Field Facility to be named the ‘Shafiqua Maloney Stadium’.

The MP made the call on Monday, August 5, during his party’s New Times Radio Programme aired on NICE Radio, the day before Maloney competed in the final of the 800m at the

Major St. Clair Leacock has put himself on record, calling for the official (re)naming of the Diamond Track and Field Facility after a deserving sports icon.

Paris, Olympics, and sealed her place in the history of this country as the first athlete to make the finals of an Olympics event.

The Diamond facility, opened in November, 2020, has been referred to since as the Sir Vincent Beache Athletics Stadium.

And while he did not question the contribution made by the now departed politician and government minster, Sir Vincent Beache, Leacock asserted that “it would be more appropriate for the athletics track to be named after a sports icon.”

That sports icon deserving of such honour, Leacock insisted, was Shafiqua Maloney “who has already made history.”

He added that the 25-year-old from Richland Park has had “to endure physical, psychological and emotional challenges on her journey leading up

Many citizens have called for the Diamond Track and Field Facility to be named after a national sports icon, preferably a track/field athlete.

to the Paris Olympics, a journey filled with record-breaking accomplishments.

In Leacock’s appraisal of the Maloney’s life’s journey and accomplishments to date, he reasoned

that she has reached heights no other Vincentian athlete has been able so to do, and to name the facility after her will mean that “…we will finally get a deserving name to that stadium.”

(Contributed)

Harry happy to have played his part

LOCAL TRACKand Field

Coach Godfrey Harry is happy to have played a part in Shafiqua Maloney’s successful journey to the Olympics.

Maloney finished 4th in the 800m at the 2024 Paris Olympics and in the process became the first Vincentian to make the finals of any event at an Olympics. She had the best position for a Caribbean athlete in the 800m since Ana Quiros, of Cuba, who placed second in

Shafiqua Maloney as a student athlete of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School.

1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Harry worked with Maloney during the time she was a student at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, before she sent off to St. Kitts and then the USA on scholarship.

When asked to comment on the 25-year-old’s performance, Harry said, “… her performance was great… it was just unfortunate she didn’t win a medal, but it is great for the sports, it’s great for St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the world stage for track and field.”

Harry added that he always

believed that Maloney had the ability “to perform on sports’ biggest stage. When I was working with her as a junior, my wife always said that she was going to be our Olympic champion.”

Godfrey Harry remembers thinking even when he handled Shafiqua Maloney as a junior, that she had the potential to reach far.

Maloney had her first taste of international competition as a junior when we went to Penn Relays in 2011, Harry recalled.

Harry strongly believes that Maloney has some way to go still.

“Once the support structures are there, I think she can win a medal (Olympic)

SVG Super 50 Squad Announced

THIS COUNTRYSenior Cricket Team opened its campaign in the 2024 Windward Islands Super 50 Tournament with a match against Dominica last Monday, August 5, at the Mindoo Phillips Park in St. Lucia.

This was followed on Tuesday with a match against St. Lucia at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground, and one against Grenada on Thursday, August 8, at the Mindoo Phillips Park.

The Tournament’s final to decide the first and second

places is set for August 10 at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground, with the third and fourth place playoff set for the same day, at the Mindoo Phillips Park.

The squad representing SVG was named following the conclusion of a five-match trial series, involving teams led by Sunil Ambris

and Desron Maloney.

for SVG… and I think we have about four other athletes who can also achieve this feat,” Harry projected, adding that “there were other coaches who played their part on her way to where she is now, so well done to them also.”

I.B.A. ALLEN

Kirtney Franklyn, Jehiel Walters, Jeremy Layne and Jeremy Haywood.

Othneil Lewis, Romario Bibby, Romano Pierre and Tilron Harry were named as reserves.

Javid Harry is the Team Manager and will also serve as Assistant Coach to Head Coach Ian Allen. (SEE UPDATE ON PAGE 22.)

I.B.A. ALLEN

The SVG squad is being captained by the experienced batsman Sunil Ambris and includes: Desron Maloney (vice-captain), Dillon Douglas, , Asif Hooper, Kenneth Dember, Keron Cottoy, Rayan William, Javerdean Browne, Solomon Bascombe and newcomers Ethan Gibson,

The Senior Nation Cricket Team at the Argyle International Airport before their departure for St. Lucia on Sunday, August 04, 2024.

Newcomers from left to right: Ethan Gibson, Kirtney Franklyn, Jaheil Walters, Jeremy Layne and Jeremy Haywood.

Vincentian athletes coming forth

SHAFIQUA MALONEYfinished fourth in the 800 meters in the 2024 Olympics, rounding off in Paris, France.

Her compatriot- Handel Roban finished in a similar position, albeit in the qualifying stage. Normally, Vincentians were satisfied with a personal best, which invariably made little difference to the entire package.

In this case, the Maloney performance comes like a shock to the rest of the world. She entered the arena ranked at number 27, and when the final curtain comes down, she will have to be respected having stepped 23 places up the ladder, if not in real consequence, at least as far as the results show.

It took her two days of intense battles. Maloney produced an incredible performance to place second in the semifinal, making her an automatic qualifier for the final. That’s when her rivals must have taken note.

She managed fourth in that ultimate showdown, snuffed out of a bronze medal by the narrowest of margins.

She is proving that she belongs there, in her own words. The result leaves the rest of the world astonished, that one from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, not known for any athletic prowess could take the 800 meters world by storm.

Maloney’s story is more astounding given the build-up to her appearance. She admits to modelling her ambitions on Kenike Alexander who blazed the athletic trail over a period. Alexander’s per event was the 400 metres. She controlled the track at many an event, taking the first 300 in style.

All that counts for nothing. It is the finishing that matters.

Maloney takes on a double distance, one which calls for speed and stamina.

Maloney is finding out that besides the athletic prowess, there calls for more than running ability.

It may surprise the intrigue attached to international sports. Maloney was boxed in at the crucial stage, not allowed to stretch her legs in the way she had been used to over her preparation stages.

She needed space to exhale, and those in the race were not going to allow her that latitude.

Maloney has shown her depth. That she placed fourth is a testimony to her depth of character. She is a graduate of the University of Adversity, and there is every indication that her courses are far from finished.

With the experience of the Paris Olympics behind and the lessons of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality worldwide, Maloney has broken down some crucial barriers.

Her arrival on the international stage comes with a sense of nostalgia and euphoria. Never has any Vincentian aroused a sense of patriotism. And despite her performance and the circumstances, she rallied the entire Caribbean behind her. Her performance and display of consciousness show the extent of the Vincentian spirit; the one that carries a striking resemblance to our national hero Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer.

So with Maloney and Roban making great strides, there is a feeling that the athletics arena is opening up to Vincentians. The buildup of the 2028 Olympics will be interesting. All things equal, and with blessings from the Almighty, Maloney will be at the Games, and there is every indication that she is blazing the trail for others.

UPDATE: Windwards Super 50 revamped

THE ORIGINALLY scheduled first two days of the 2024 Windward Island Super 50 Tournament were rained out.

Heavy rainfall over the two days, Monday and Tuesday of this week, drenched the outfields at both designated venues — the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG) and the Mindoo Phillips Park (MPP).

In what officials said was a move to ensure that the cricketers got as much play as possible, the tournament will proceed on a round-robin basis. The team with the most points will emerge as champions.

The revised schedule meant that the opening games were played on Wednesday.

Friday was allowed as a rest day with Saturday now set to

accommodate the third and final round of matches, when Saint Lucia takes on Dominica at DSCG, and Grenada clash with St Vincent & the Grenadines at MPP.

Carry on Sports

SOCCER SEASON usually begins in August/September. For 2024 some teams/clubs will be without their best players as some players will be attending the SVGFF executive team’s ongoing training preparation to participate in the Concacaf Nations League competition, come September 2024.

The team is placed in Group A to play Montserrat, Bonaire, and El Salvador which whip SVG in the World Cup Qualifiers in June, 2024.

In the first half of 2024, we saw the West Indies and U.S.A hosting the World Cup T/20 Cricket. Congratulations to India; they beat South Africa in an exciting finish.

Then Spain became football champions of ‘Europe for the fourth time after winning all of their seven games.

‘2024 Copa America included sixteen teams: ten from CONMEBOL and six from CONCACAF. Argentina won the competition for the sixteenth time, and for the first time Venezuela won their Group of three games.

And the Diamond League and other European and Caribbean countries were hosting track and field competitions giving competitors/coaches and managers time to assess, evaluate, and promote the best for the Olympics.

Olympics 2024 has already been exciting and enjoyable, and more is yet to be heard of and seen of persons with new records, speed, distances, height, strength, precision, teamwork, and even tears of joy. For four years, executives, coaches, trainers, and managers have been preparing for this moment.

The revamped format will see teams being awarded bonus points for batting and bowling, along with bonus points for runouts and dot balls bowled.

Once you are involved in sports, you become either a competitor or an organizer. However, in SVG it’s different… the organizers enjoy the competitors’ benefits and the competition more than the competitors.

In soccer, in the last three decades, some $36M have passed through the system but we have little to show for it in terms of team preparation.

In early 2024, the SVGFF executive team played two friendly games against Dominica in preparation for their World Cup competition. The Prime Minister of SVG looked at the game; team SVG lost. The look on his face told us that he was wondering why are the teams played so differently from those he had seen on TV. I then think I should tell him to ask our neighbour Venezuela, the most improved country in the recent ‘Copa 24’, to share their coaching experiences with ‘all our coaches’ in SVG. Players and coaches please, you can improve by first seeking the knowledge so that you can contribute to the development of your clubs.

Executives and club administrators have to ensure that they help the competitors gain better standards and financial benefits.

Rollit Waldrond

(Source: St. Lucia Times)

A water-logged Darren Sammy Cricket Ground, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, Tuesday 6th August, 2024. (Photo Credit: St. Lucia Times)

The Three Rs and the Development Programme rolling into place

Continued from Page 8.

(i) On Mayreau the clean-up is proceeding well under a BRAGSA contractor in concert with the organisation on the ground (the state, a NGO, and community-spirited persons) and the people of Mayreau. The electricity situation is similar to the progress in Canouan. The primary school is to be repaired before September. Building materials have been sent and repairs to government facilities are underway. Many secondary school students from Mayreau have expressed a preference to go to school in Canouan rather than Union Island.

(ii) On Bequia: recovery is proceeding well on all fronts

(iii) On St. Vincent: Recovery is also proceeding very well in all material particulars.

Housing

As of Monday August 5, 2024, the Ministry of Housing has commenced the repairs/rebuilding of 235 houses across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This effort has to be scaled up massively. This is an urgent work in progress. And it will take time, given the magnitude of the damage and destruction of homes by Beryl, and the remainder to be fixed from the volcanic eruptions in 2021, including 6 to built in North Windward and a dozen or so in North Windward, and some 200 or so more to be repaired.

Education

BRAGSA is at work repairing all educational institutions as per usual driving the long vacation from school. But this year the situation is far, far worse because of Hurricane Beryl. Some 28 educational institutions across St. Vincent and the Grenadines were destroyed, severely damaged or moderately damaged due to Beryl. For example, on St. Vincent, the Calder Primary School has to be rebuilt; similarly, Bishop’s College Kingstown (416 students) requires a massive construction intervention; and there are others on St. Vincent. In Bequia the Paget Farm Primary School and the Lower Bay Primary have to be rebuilt. Mention has already been made to the situation in Union Island, Canouan, and Mayreau.

By far, the worst affected is Union Island. The government is providing two options to the parents of the children: Educating and housing them on St. Vincent in the start term; or on Union Island as circumstances admit. The choice is for the parents. The Ministry of Education is collecting information on the choices of the parents. It is expected that there will be schooling on St. Vincent and Union Island. The government is preparing for both options, though the Ministry of Education prefers the St. Vincent option, given all the practical considerations attendant on schooling in Union Island at this time, including availability of housing and other adequate facilities for life, living and learning.

The recovery in Education is complicated further by the use of 26 schools in St. Vincent as shelters. The accommodation issue has to be solved, for these schools to be made available in time for September 2, 2024, for the students. The government is working assiduously on this challenge.

Meanwhile development projects continue

Meanwhile, the major capital projects in Budget 2024 continues, including the Kuwait-funded road programme; the Taiwanese and CDB funded road programme; the Sandy Bay Sea Defense Project; the CDB-funded school reconstruction programme; the Modern Port Project; the Acute Care Hospital at Arnos Vale (the contractor OECC now has control of the site); the World bank funded projects in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Information Technology; the Saudi funded projects(clinics, cultural hubs, police stations, housing); the Modern Parliament and Court House Projects; the Holiday Inn and other hotel projects; and so forth. It is a massive capital programme with funds allocated in the 2024 Budget and the supplementary of July

2024. Thus, the capacity issues raised earlier.

Final comment

Amidst all our difficulties and challenges, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is on the move. We will recover and reconstruct better. And we will develop sustainably in our people’s interest. Of that the government and people are sure! Meanwhile heroic BRAGSA starts today (Wednesday August 7th) the usual road cleaning for the August period; some 5000 persons would be actively engaged nation-wide on this, plus the truckers!

AI REAL ESTATE

LAWYER: “STOP THE HEARTLESS SUSPENSION”

by HAYDN HUGGINS

ATTORNEYKay BacchusBaptiste is calling on Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall to immediately withdraw what she (BacchusBaptiste) described as a “purported” appeal, so that her client, Adriana King, could be fully reinstated as a teacher in the government service.

The lawyer described King’s

Kay Bacchus-Browne, King’s lawyer, has called on the DPP to withdraw her appeal against a judgement in favour of King, so that her client can return to her substantive salaried position.

continued suspension as, “heartless, and unjust punishment.”

King, a social activist, and teacher last assigned to the St. Vincent Grammar School, has been suspended from her job on half pay since August 2021, pending the outcome of matters stemming from the July and August 2021 antigovernment protests in Kingstown, as well as one in 2023.

Sejilla McDowal, DPP, with less than a month after the Magistrate ruled to discontinue proceeding against King, gave notice to appeal the Magistrate’s decision.

In one of the 2021 matters, King was charged with attempting to obstruct Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister, and members of the House of Assembly from going to the House, contrary to section 25(a) of the House of Assembly Privileges, Powers and Immunity Act.

The matter had been in the Court system for about three years, without trial, and in a Judgement handed down at the Calliaqua court on May 27, this year, Magistrate John Ballah discontinued the proceedings, contending that he found the delay to be inordinate in light of the Chief Justice’s guidelines concerning the length of time criminal matters should remain before the Magistrate’s Court without completion. He also highlighted the absence of a Magistrate at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court during the period that King’s matter was pending.

But on June 19, the DPP filed a Notice of Appeal against Magistrate Ballah’s decision on the ground that

CANOUAN GETS POWER

EVENas its restorative work in the Southern Grenadines continues postHurricane Beryl, July 01, St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) announced this week that power has been restored to the central commercial area in Canouan.

Including in this are the Police Station, Coastguard Base, Canouan Airport and the Health Clinic.

VINLEC said that contractors have also been dispatched to Mayreau and Union Island to assist with repairs to the transmission and distribution networks on these islands.

The company said in a press release, “Our power stations in Mayreau and Canouan are operational; however, the power station on Union Island remains out of

service due to significant damage. Repairs and maintenance work are underway at the Union Island plant to provide an interim solution to generate electricity as soon as possible for the island, while more permanent and resilient fixes are being developed for the power station and generation challenges.”

Meanwhile, VINLEC said that it welcomed two teams of Linemen from the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) and the British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) this month, to aid in restoration efforts in the Southern Grenadines. Both teams have been deployed to Canouan, where they are working in collaboration with local contractors and VINLEC Linemen to carry out

the learned Magistrate erred in law by ordering a stay of Court proceedings in the circumstances of the case. She pointed out that the defense had substantially contributed to the delay of the proceedings, the delay was not so inordinate that the defendant could not have a fair trial, and consequentially, the Magistrate Court’s time limit guidelines were strictly applied.

However, Bacchus-Baptiste, speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, not only expressed the view that the appeal was procedurally wrong but described it as a “sham” designed to allow the state to continue King’s suspension.

Bacchus-Baptiste pointed out that King was vindicated on all her charges, in connection with the protests, and should be reinstated.

“There is absolutely no public interest and no legal interest in the DPP continuing this sham of appeal. I am calling for its immediate

withdrawal so that she (King) could be reinstated,” the lawyer said.

“I could only say the appeal is misconceived, and continued victimization. She has a family to maintain, she is a single mother, and her students are being deprived of the services of a good teacher,” BacchusBaptiste added.

King was also one of four persons who were acquitted of separate charges brought under the Public Order Act, stemming from an antigovernment protest in Kingstown on February 23, 2023. She was also one of eight protesters from whom the DPP discontinued charges brought under the Public Order Act in August 2021.

remaining but essential restorativework on the

island. (Source: VINLEC)

VINLEC restorative work in the Southern Grenadines is ongoing. Pictured are VINLEC and APUA linemen teams just minutes before boarding the ferry bound for the Southern Grenadines, where they will join in the restorative work.

Adriana King, a secondary school teacher, has been on suspension with half pay since 2021.