THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 10-11-23

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023

VOLUME 117, No.45

Investigation s ongoing Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

Mitch discusses appeal Page 4

Ft. Charlotte Rd. & more Page 12

Math mentors for SMSS Page 18

EC$1.50

New homicide record Page 28

Commissioner of Police (Ag) Enville Williams issued a strong warning to those involved in criminal activity and to those who harbor such elements.

Left: Assistant Commissioner of Police in Charge of Operations, Christopher Benjamin promised an increased police presence across the state and reiterated the need for citizenrypolice cooperation in fighting crime.

by DAYLE DASILVA WHILE ADMITTING that the country has a problem, i.e. the prevalent use of illegal firearms, Acting Commissioner of Police (CoP) Enville Williams has given an early warning to the criminals.

“We are coming for you!” he said to the criminals as he addressed a media briefing hosted by the Royal SVG Police Force last Monday, November 06, the first under the watch of the acting Commissioner.

He supported his admission of the prevalence of illegal guns to the media briefing, saying that of the 47 homicides recorded so far this year, 43 were categorized as murders, and of the 43 murders committed, 36 involved the use of illegal handguns.

Rooting out the gun culture According to the Commissioner (Ag), gun culture was too glorified in Vincentian society as was evident, he said, in the lyrical content of some of the music often played in public and to which the nation’s youth are Left: The Police have made a number of seizures of illegal weapons/ammunition as borne out by this cache.

exposed.

“We must not as citizens, as Vincentians, allow this practice to be normalized as the way forward,” Williams said.

“We must not accept these occurrences as normal and we should do everything in our power to rid the streets and our communities of illegal firearms and ammunition, and the few rogue men and women who seek to use them to instill fear among our citizens,” he continued.

Williams described the reality of the situation as one in which a small segment of society “…harbours criminals and protects them from police action and/or prosecution.”

He reached out to these people to stop this act since, as he said, “…it was eroding the society–the very society that you live in. It is undermining the peace and the safety of your neighbours, and if you continue to do it, we will come for you.”

Williams urged the general citizenry “not to hire them (perpetrators of crime), not to give them shelter or a safe space to operate in, because by doing that, your neighbours and your brothers and sisters will be affected by the crimes they perpetrate. And this must stop.”

The nation’s top cop referred to the gun amnesty expected to be implemented here soon, and encouraged those who were in possession of illegal firearms to take the opportunity to turn them in or face the consequences.

“Make no mistake, make absolutely no mistake [that] our resolve is to get rid of the guns from the streets of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” the Commissioner of Police asserted.

“We are resolved to get them, so we want to encourage you who in some way, shape or Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 3.

News 3 Police investigations are ongoing

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor Bailey informed that investigations were ongoing into a number of outstanding murders.

Police Trevor Bailey said at a press briefing on November 6 that investigations into the two deaths were ongoing.

“I want to urge St. Vincent and the Grenadines that those two investigations are very much alive and ongoing and work is being done every day,” Bailey said.

According to the ACP in Charge of Crime, since being assigned to that office he had worked along with the investigators attached to the Major Crime Unit, particularly those investigating both murders, and have reviewed statements. He has since made certain recommendations to the investigators with respect to continuing their work.

“And those investigations are very much ongoing,” he said.

He urged the public to maintain their confidence in those members of the police charged with the responsibility of carrying out investigations, especially those assigned to investigate. citizens to provide information to law “We have proven before enforcement authorities. that we are more than This information can often lead to the capable of doing in depth and apprehension and subsequent prosecution technical investigation and of individuals involved in criminal these two crimes in activities, Benjamin alluded, and he particular, are very high on underscored the need for collaboration our agenda and they’re very among the citizens of SVG in order to much alive and we are effectively address the issue of crime.. working,” ACP Bailey said.

POLICE INVESTIGATIONS into the deaths of Precious ZiggyAnn Williams of Walveroo and Veronica ‘Keisha’ Small of an area in Arnos Vale referred to as ‘Pole Yard’, are ongoing.

Williams and Small were killed in 2022.

The partially decomposed body of 17-year-old Williams was discovered stuffed in a crocus bag in the Murray’s Village area back in May 2022 and Small, who was said to be in her early forties, was discovered on the runway of the decommissioned runway of the E.T Joshua Airport, with a piece of PVC pipe inserted in her, in August 2022.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of

Precious Ziggy-Ann Williams – her body was stuffed in a crocus bag.

“We will get you!” ~ CoP (Ag) Continued from Frontpage. fashion believe that you have an upper hand to know that the RSVGPF and law enforcement generally in the country, we will do all that we have to do to protect the good name of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and protect the citizens of the country from these senseless acts of violence,” he continued.

Focus on Layou

Increased Police Presence Assistant Commissioner of Police in Charge of Operations, Christopher Benjamin told the briefing that while the fight against crime was the responsibility of all, the public wanted to know what measures were being put in place by the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force to deal with the issue.

But he said that he was unable to outline in detail some of the strategies to be adopted by law enforcement authorities, though he disclosed that the public can expect increased police presence.

“You will feel us, so expect some inconvenience based on our initiative along with a high police presence in all communities. We’ll be present, but not so present. So we’ll be there, and you will not know that we are there,” Benjamin advised.

Benjamin also emphasized the need for

Meanwhile, Trevor “Buju” Bailey, acting Assistant Commissioner of Police with responsibility for crime, told Monday’s media briefing, without giving any real detail, that certain measures will be implemented with immediate effect.

In direct response to the situation in Layou where two men were murdered in the space of less than a month and where reports say criminal activity has heightened recently, Bailey spoke directly to the Layou community, saying, “..persons in Layou…… can be comforted in knowing that the police will not walk away. We will be relentless.

“You will see the police; you will feel the police. There are times that you may be inconvenienced but be sure that the inconvenience that may occur, it is in the best interest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the citizens of the surrounding areas of Layou, Buccament and those areas.” (DD)

Mass shooting During his presentation, Bailey updated the nation on the status of the investigation regarding the mass shooting death which occurred on July 19, 2023, in Kingstown.

Five people died during that incident. Lamont ‘Dutchie’ Hector, Jamal Bobb, Dondre Hillocks, Ricky Taylor and 13-year-old Kashie Primus were gunned down in the area referred to as ‘Harbor Club’.

According to Bailey, 12 statements have been obtained by the police and local law enforcement have sought the assistance of their colleagues in St. Lucia and St. Kitts.

He disclosed that a team

Veronica ‘Keisha’ Small – was believed to have been sexually assaulted. from St. Lucia had conducted a forensic examination on the vehicles alleged to have been used in the shooting incident.

“The team naturally would have left with what was gathered from the processing of that vehicle and we await the forensic analysis of the exhibits that were taken,” said Bailey.

So too, he said that the team from St Kitts assisted in further analyzing other exhibits that are related to the mass shooting.

“And the investigation in that matter is very much ongoing,” the ACP assured. (DD)

V

4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Jailed murderer in discussion on appeal Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

UP TO PRESS TIME yesterday (Thursday), attorney Dr. Linton Lewis, though revealing that discussions were being held, could not confirm to THE VINCENTIAN whether his client Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel intended to appeal his conviction and/or sentence.

On Monday, Israel, a 61-year-old former civil servant, was sentenced to 38 years in prison for the January 30, 2020 murder of his wife Mitchell ‘Mitch’ Arianna TaylorIsrael remained stoic even as the Israel, a Cuban national, who was judge handed employed here as down a 34-year jail terms on him a nurse.

A 12-member for murdering his jury had found wife.

Israel guilty on August 16, 2023, but sentencing was postponed.

Justice Rickie Burnett handed down the penalty at High Court No. 2 after taking into account written sentencing submissions by the crown and defense, a Social Inquiry report, a victim impact statement, as well as oral arguments and a mitigation plea by Dr. Lewis on October 13.

However, Justice Burnett deducted the three years, nine months, and four days Israel spent on remand, resulting in Israel having to spend 34 years, two months, and 27 days behind bars, beginning from the date of sentencing.

that she was going to be at the school on the day in question.

The killing, the Crown argued, was the ultimate culmination in a progression beginning with threats and violence.

The Crown also argued that it was a crime of domestic violence, and that it was committed in view of the public on the compound of an educational institution.

Dr. Lewis, in his submissions, argued for a determinate sentence ranging between 15 and 30 years.

Lewis stated that Israel should also be given substantial discounts for mitigating factors, and having regard to the evidence, any additional time that is contemplated for aggravating factors should be minimal. He Facts and arguments submitted that the aggravating factors The facts as presented by Justice outweighed the mitigating, and that Burnett on Monday showed that should be reflected in the sentence. around 3 p.m. on January 30, 2020, Lewis contended that his client was Israel visited the St. Martin Secondary of good character, genuinely School, as he was in the habit of doing. remorseful, expressed deep love for his He met his wife there, there was an wife, and was a good prospect for exchange of words between them, and rehabilitation.

Israel shot her in the neck, chest, and Israel, Lewis pointed out, had never shoulder. An autopsy revealed that she been charged with an offense, had died from multiple gunshot wounds. been a model citizen, and held Following the shooting Israel supervisory positions in various discarded the firearm, but later took institutions and departments in the the police to where it was.

Public Service, and therefore was The Crown, led by attorney Richie unlikely to commit an offense again.

Maitland failed in their efforts to have Israel imprisoned for life, a request Justice Burnett rules made on the basis that there was a substantial degree of planning and In handing down the penalty pre-meditation.

Justice Burnett stressed that the The Crown contended that Israel, Court had to stand by the fact that the holder of a licensed firearm, had Israel was found guilty of murder and previously threatened his wife, and that the Jury rejected self-dense, that based on the evidence, he knew accident, and provocation. He disagreed with the Crown that there When asked on Tuesday whether Israel intended to appeal his conviction and/or sentence, Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN that he was currently holding discussions with his client, and could not comment on the issue of appeal at this point. He also declined to comment on the sentencing of his client.

Upon conviction on August 16, Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN that he was surprised by the verdict, and he hoped that his client would eventually be acquitted on appeal. He did not say then whether Israel intended to appeal, as he was not yet sentenced, but indicated that “most likely he would.”

Lawyer maintains killing was an accident CLOSE to three months after a 12member Jury found former civil servant Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel guilty of murdering his wife Arianna TaylorIsrael, his lawyer Dr. Linton Lewis maintains that it was an accident.

In his written and oral sentencing submissions, Lewis maintained that Taylor-Israel was the aggressor and it was not his client’s intention to kill her.

“He was provoked by Arianna Israel who hit him with a cellular phone, and she made other attempts to hit him. Arianna Israel was the aggressor. That was not challenged.

The evidence given by the Prosecution witnesses is that there was a struggle, but none of them saw how it started,” Lewis stated in his written submissions, basically reiterating his closing arguments at the trial.

“The evidence did not show an intention by Mitch Israel to kill his wife. His presence at the schoolyard was to pick up his children as he usually did. He usually carries his firearm with him in public, even though it is concealed,” Lewis added.

“The evidence is that Arianna Israel sustained gunshot wounds during a struggle, with both of them tugging and pulling the gun which was discharged in the process. Mitch Israel never intended to kill Arianna Israel,” the lawyer continued. He made similar arguments in his oral

submissions on October 13.

Lewis submitted that the fact that the offense was committed in the presence of Even after a litany children at the school compound of arguments on behalf of his was fortuitous. client, the Judge He contended that in imposed a lengthy accordance with sentence on the practice Mitchell Israel. directions, the only aggravating factors that can be considered relevant were where the offense was committed in the presence of children and at, or near a religious or educational institution. He argued that the offense was not committed in view of the public, and therefore this should not be given any consideration as an aggravating factor.

Lewis also argued that there was no evidence presented in Court that Israel was charged with using threats to his wife.

In handing down the penalty on Monday, Justice Rickie Burnett said that Israel was found guilty of murder and that the Jury rejected accident, self-defense, and provocation, and in sentencing, the Court had to stand by that.

Israel was sentenced to 38 years in prison. (See related story)

was a substantial degree of planning and pre-meditation. Based on the evidence, Israel was in the habit of visiting the school where his wife was shot, and he had visited that institution to pick up his sons on several occasions, before the incident, Justice Burnett ruled.

The Judge started at 40 years, within a range of 30 to 50 years. He expressed the view that it was a very serious crime where a life was lost and that a message must be sent out.

In highlighting the aggravating factors, he stressed that the incident occurred on the school compound in the presence of school children, and must have had some effect on the school population. He also mentioned the traumatic impact on their two sons. He pointed out that they had been married for 20 years, and had marital problems.

The Judge agreed that the shooting took place in view of the public, and noted that following the incident, Israel left the scene and discarded the firearm, but later took the police to where he had disposed of the weapon, resulting in it being retrieved.

On the mitigating factors of the offense, the Judge highlighted Israel’s assistance to the police and concluded that the aggravating factors outweighed the mitigating, and moved the sentence up by two years, bringing it to 42 years.

On the mitigating factors for the offender, Burnett highlighted his good character, that he had no previous convictions, and appeared to have shown some remorse. He found no aggravating factors for the offender, and reduced the sentence by four years, bringing it down to 38 years.

Eight years for aggravated burglary A 23-year-old New Montrose man who, two years ago, boldly entered the home of retired secondary school principal, Antoinette Jardine armed with a cutlass, and stole $3,600 will spend the next 7 years, 11 months and 7 days behind bars.

Justice Rickie Burnett, sitting at High Court No. 2 on Monday, sentenced the accused, Kenroy ‘Guana Billy’ Bibby to 8 years in prison for aggravated burglary, but he deducted the one month and 24 days Bibby spent on remand.

A 9-member Jury on October 13, 2023, had found Bibby guilty, but sentencing was postponed.

Bibby conducted his defense.

The facts revealed that around 7:30 p.m. on August 7, 2021, Jardine saw someone entering the living room of the 2storey house at New Montrose. At first, she thought it was her son, but later observed that it

was an intruder, who Kenroy was unmasked and Bibby could armed with a cutlass. cunty She screamed, but himself the intruder boldly lucky given removed $3,600 from what is the her purse, which was maximum on the table, and left. sentence for Jardine reported the crime he the matter to the committed. police and gave a detailed description The Judge of the intruder. started at 6 years which Bibby was arrested.

An identification parade is 20 percent of the maximum penalty. He was conducted at the found no mitigating Central Police Station factors for the offense, during which Jardine but in relation to the picked him out.

He was electronically aggravating, he pointed out that the offense was interviewed but denied committed at night and being the culprit, and was motivated by greed. throughout the trial, he As a result, he added insisted that they had one year moving the the wrong man. But the Jury rejected his defense sentence up to 7 years.

On the aggravating of mistaken identity. factors for the offender, Aggravated burglary Burnett noted that Bibby carries a maximum had previous convictions penalty of life imprisonment/ 30 years. for theft, burglary, and handling stolen goods.

Justice Burnett, in The only mitigating applying the sentencing factor for him was that guidelines, said the he was still relatively offense falls in category young.

3, and level B, the The Judge further medium level, in terms increased the sentence to of seriousness.

8 years.

V ÂHe was my everythingÊ:

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 5.

Crime

Girlfriend remembers her partner FOR THE FIRST TIME in seventeen years, Everlonne Stowe of Fair Hall does not have her beloved Maurice Primus at her side.

Primus, aka ‘6 Beer, 31, originally from Sion Hill, was gunned down on Friday 3rd November in Fair Hall, while making his way to his home.

Stowe, who shares an 11-year-old son with Primus, told THE VINCENTIAN in an exclusive interview, that their relationship began when they were both students at the St. Clair Deacon Secondary school.

“We just connected the first time I saw him. I was in form 1 and he was in form 2. He would always come and look for me at my class and harass me. I, in turn, will always look for a window seat in the van just to see him when I was going to town or coming to school,” Stowe said of the genesis of the relationship.

When Primus gifted her a phone, they would speak for hours into the night, she admitted.

He dropped out of school early but supported her while she remained in school. But she too, dropped out of school at a tender age and they moved in together.

“He took care of me and would go all out to make sure I was happy,” said Stowe.

The relationship produced a son and Primus would take on

him couple time and he pick up, tell me he soon come and hang up. But He called back and said he going to buy three food for That final Friday us,” Stowe explained.

When even more time The bereaved woman rolled by and he was not said that she last saw her home yet, Stowe said she boyfriend on Friday began to feel different. morning . “I was going to “….. I started feeling town and he picked out funny. My nose got my clothes to wear. It was blocked up and I started black outfit and when I feeling sick. I messaged done dress, I was on bed him but he didn’t reply talking to him and he was right away and I thought lying on chest. He always he was ignoring me. So I wanted to cuddle and hug send the two last texts up,” Stowe revealed. and then he said he When she was about to coming and he feeling leave, he kissed her and dizzy, probably from she inquired about drinking,” Stowe told THE whether he was going VINCENTIAN. anywhere that day. He About five minutes responded that he was after that exchange, she “not sure (but) he said she heard the sound supposed to go town to of gunshots. “I heard four collect a money and come shots, then multiple shots back,”. and I ran out the house During the course of same time. When I reach the morning, Primus down in the road, I saw confirmed by way of a him lying on ground in a video call to Stowe, that pool of blood. I didn’t even he was in town. The video see any one… he did showed him sheltering the basically done reach home, rain. He promised to be it was just for him to come home soon. up the track,” a now sobbing Stowe related.

Never got home “Mud was on also on his body and his face was Primus, though, did not bruised off,” said Stowe, go directly home. He who went on to share a stopped at a shop where, belief that her boyfriend according to Stowe based had a physical encounter on what the shopkeeper with his killer(s) before told her, he bought drinks they shot him. for everyone , something Coping with the loss he was known to do from time to time.

The Fair Hall resident When it seemed he was said that her boyfriend late getting home, “I call

different jobs - painter, labourer, gardener and driver, to maintain his family.

Youth charged with killing elder brother

by HAYDN HUGGINS TWENTYONE-YEAROLD Azari McIntosh is behind bars awaiting a January 16, 2024, Preliminary inquiry (P.I.) into the death of his brother Zackry McIntosh, 31.

Both men are said to be from Calliaqua.

The accused was not required to plea to the indictable charge of murder during his brief appearance before Chief

on October 31.

The elder brother was taken to the Calliaqua Health Centre for treatment on November 1 and later transferred to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries on November 3.

An autopsy showed that he died as a result of blunt trauma to the abdomen.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that he was stabbed.

Prosecutor Renrick Cato informed the Court that the Prosecution intends to call about eight witnesses at the P.I.

Azari McIntosh awaits a Preliminary Inquiry having been charged with causing the death of his brother.

Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday and was remanded.

Attorney Grant Connell represented him at the arraignment.

Police reports are that the elder McIntosh received injuries allegedly inflicted by his younger brother during an altercation at Calliaqua

never told her that his life was at risk. “He is type of person who is easily offended and that will lead to exchange of words between he and whoever.

So I don’t know if he offended anyone and they took it to heart,” said Stowe.

Since her boyfriend’s death, Stowe admitted she was struggling to cope with the loss, and her son was in a state of shock.

“Maurice was my everything. I will miss our fights and arguments, his comfort and kisses, his smiles, him getting upset when I don’t hug him to sleep,” the young woman intimated, adding that he made certain his son received proper care.

She told THE VINCENTIAN that she would like to see Primus’s killer/s pay for what they did and the pain they have cost her family.

“My son tries to Maurice Primus and Everlonne Stow in a happier time. comfort me and family and friends. the St. Paul Spiritual But the pain just keeps getting worse,” Stowe said Baptiste Church in Sion Hill. The viewing is at through sobbing.

10a.m. and service at Primus will be laid to 11a.m. (KH) rest on Sunday 19th, at

V

6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Views 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

Standing with Guyana Refer to Page 7 in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 3rd November, 2023.

IN THE CARIBBEAN’S POLITICAL CULTURE that encourages an ongoing bickering between the government and opposition sides of the parliament, and one in which political party conflicts and disagreements are commonplace, it is heartening to note the unity of political parties in a highly politically and racially divided country like Guyana.

Historically at ‘war’ with one another, the major political parties in Guyana have united in the interest of protecting and safeguarding their territorial integrity, from ridiculous and unabated claims, even demands, from their larger neighbour Venezuela.

Pity that this demonstration of the resilience of democratic ideals comes as a result of attacks from the outside, the same ideals that are in ‘normal time’ simply taken for granted, ignored or never applied.

Suffice it to say, perhaps for the first time in its modern history, the people of Guyana are completed united.

The people are united in condemnation of Venezuela’s deliberate violation of the rule of law, demonstrated by its intent to undermine Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and have its people support this through a referendum. The people of Guyana have condemned the deliberate violation of the rule of law by Venezuela and agreed and stand ready to defend any and all endeavours to undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their country, a member of CARICOM. To say the least, Venezuela’s claim to a sizeable portion of Guyana’s land, particularly the Essequibo region, have been a source of tension for decades. The origins of this controversy date back to the 19th century but, we must admit, the situation escalated on the heels of Guyana’s recent oil discoveries, especially in the region claimed by Venezuela.

And the recent move by Venezuela to ‘legitimise’ its claim by holding a referendum on December 3, 2023, on Guyana’s land, is further escalation in an already tense situation.

The referendum is nothing short of provocation and Guyana’s rejection of this action is justified, as it is a blatant violation of international law and agreements, including the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which clearly

established the framework for addressing the controversy.

And in case anyone missed it, Guyana’s united front, across party and racial lines, in denouncing this shameful act by its large neighbour, sends a powerful message to regional governments that in matters of national importance, like crime, political differences can be set aside for the greater good.

That is why it is encouraging to see that Guyana is not standing alone in this critical moment. The country has received strong support from its regional partners — CARICOM. We are to conclude that the governments of the region have recognized beyond any shadow of doubt, that the Guyana-Venezuela controversy is not a bilateral one. That it has implications for regional stability, and the principles of sovereignty and selfdetermination.

It is heartening to note that those territories that have benefited handsomely from Venezuela’s generosity, have set this aside in support of what is only fair and just, and have put their unwavering commitment to stand with Guyana in upholding international law that will ensure that Venezuela is held accountable for its actions.

The defence of territorial integrity and sovereignty should always transcend party lines and political differences.

Guyana’s demonstration of this is a shining example for democracies around the world, not least its CARICOM partners.

As December 3, 2023, the date set for the illegal referendum in Venezuela, fast approaches, the world, the Caribbean first and foremost, must stand with Guyana.

And while it is important that the international community support diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the territorial controversy peacefully, it must also make it demonstrably clear that any attempts to infringe upon Guyana’s sovereignty will not be tolerated.

Venezuela’s actions are not just a threat to Guyana; they are also a threat to the principles of international law and the right to borders everywhere.

Guyana stands united, and the world must stand with Guyana in the defence of its territorial integrity and its right to determine its own future.

As Guyanese icon Dave Martin penned: ‘Not ah blade ah grass’ for them.

Open letter to the Ag. Police Commissioner (cont’d) Dear Sir:

compassion and empathy for those you interact with is not a sign of weakness. It takes more strength of character to show kindness than the power and authority granted to you by the law, even when physical force may be needed.

3. Nobody is above the law and or the department’s performance standards. It would help if you held each other accountable. Transparency and accountability are two words I consider overused by politicians today.

This is not to say that I do not think the department is exempt from sharing valuable information. You must be willing to make information available to the public early and often.

The police department should issue weekly its arrest records, number of traffic citations, burglary, etc. (Editor’s Note: There is some effort made in this regard.)

4. The department should work with people to develop authentic connections and serve community needs in addition to traditional policing. For example, many departments offer a welfare check on senior citizens.

5. The department must continue to provide continuous learning and professional development opportunities for its members. Inservice training on resilience, problem-solving, and critical thinking must become routine classes.

6. Our police officers must always see themselves first as protectors and not warriors. We must guard against this when sending our officers overseas for training with other agencies that do not subscribe to this view. This is not to say that the officers should not be trained to take on the criminal elements in our community. But they must have the skills and knowledge to switch back quickly to their primary role as protectors.

7. Our police department must strive to be a reflection of our community. We need more diversity.

We need more female representation in the department. I could not help but notice in a picture last week in the newspaper where seven senior officers were present to receive a gift from a cultural ambassador; only one female officer was present.

Whether or not you accept the premise that our police department is at a crossroads, you must admit that this is an opportunity for you to make some changes.

I STILL HAVE A FEW more things to say. Believe it or not, the birth of modern policing actually started over two hundred years ago in London. Sir Robert Peel is considered by some to be the original architect of contemporary policing.

Peel is credited as the first to articulate the theory that police officers are simply citizens in uniform responsible for keeping the peace and enforcing the laws of the land. He strongly advocated that the police should only use the minimum amount of force necessary to achieve this noble objective. He also felt that a successful police department must depend on the public. He is reported to have said, “The police are the public, and the public are the police.” Unfortunately, as we were developing our police department under British colonial rule, this philosophy was not shared.

Our police department was constructed to keep former slaves and natives under control.

Over the last few years, we have seen police officers continue to rely on excessive force to carry out their mission. This has undermined public trust and caused people to wonder aloud what is the role of the police in our nation. It is indeed painful to hear of some current and former police officers violating the laws they are sworn to uphold and even more embarrassing that some have been charged with being involved in criminal activity. I can only hope that our judicial system will show them no mercy and they will get no credit for “cooperation, early guilty pleas” or any other excuse the magistrates and judges use to reduce sentences.

I am going to attempt to share my version of Peel’s guiding principles two hundred years later: 1. A modern police department must focus on customer service. Every interaction with the public is an opportunity to nurture a relationship rather than complete a transaction.

For example, it is not too late for the police department to begin a Christmas food drive for needy families in the community. The annual Police Christmas party for kids could be expanded to include disadvantaged children from the community who would otherwise not receive a new toy for Christmas this year. (This might be too late for this year, but it is something to consider for next year).

2. We should treat everyone with Horatio. dignity and respect. Showing

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 7.

Letters

PapaÊs children MANY ARE wondering why none of Papa’s children have taken over the family business. Everyone knows that Papa is ageing and must cope with the diseases of old age, yet he seems to be doing everything by himself.

Doctors have advised him to retire but he holds on.

Being the intellectual that he is, he reads profusely and writes a lot. That seems to be where his passion is. His rightful place is on a university campus where he can teach a class or two to keep his mind sharp in his old age. He is an orator and if he is not restrained, he will take over a whole meeting without giving others a hearing.

Papa is an excellent cook and prefers to

prepare all the meals himself. Neither his wife nor any of his children were allowed to hone their culinary skills while Papa is around.

None was good enough to meet Papa’s exquisite taste.

Even when someone cleans the house, Papa takes the broom and mops and cleans it over himself. He puts out the garbage himself and oversees the flower and kitchen gardens.

The children detest that they are not allowed to do things for themselves. But no one dared tell Papa about this. They do not want to hurt his feelings.

Although they were obedient and graduated from the school

programmes where they were sent, they do not like how he, the “Encyclopedia” was treating them like copy books.

Papa is not good with money and is not able to balance the family budget. Moreover, he cannot give any account of how (some of) the monies were spent. He seems to ignore spending safeguards that most families usually put in place. This leaves everyone worrying what would happen if a major sickness, or catastrophe was to overtake the family. With no savings, the family was in imminent danger of bankruptcy.

Family members do not go out much these

days because they do not feel safe. When Papa was in his days, no one dared threaten the family.

Some of the children could have taken over some of Papa’s roles but they were not allowed to do so. Even the servants and gardeners do not feel comfortable doing their jobs. People say that Papa’s lack of confidence in his children will lead to the demise of the family business because there would be no one able to take over when he goes.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

Election Day is drawing near IT HAS BEEN some time since I made use of your letter page, but I want to assure you that I have been reading THE VINCENTIAN weekly (online) and keeping abreast of developments at home.

What interest me at this point are two recent visits to New York… one visit by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and then one by Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday and his team. I might be wrong but the only time we get

visits like these, especially back-to-back, is when general elections is in the air, and there is no doubt that Election Day is drawing near.

As usual, we in the Big Apple were treated to the “all-is-good-anddandy” overview by the Prime Minister. He went about trying to convince his audience that SVG was on a road to prosperity under the leadership of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), which is under his leadership. As far as he

PEOPLE ARE ASKING: * If the Argyle International Airport (AIA) didn’t increase the support for the government, why should we think that a port (unnecessary), new hotels, and young senators would do it? * Why the P.M. (Pappy) is not calling it a day?

Is he waiting to be lifted to get to his office? He is about to set that record. * Why are so many uniformed police officers not displaying their numbers? * Has the Georgetown Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre been experiencing (electrical) power cuts causing services to be disrupted and patients to be displaced? * And has this Centre also been experiencing shortages of vital, basic supplies necessary for extending services to patients? * Who is paying for all these overseas meetings and “lecture tours” that the Prime Minister has gone on this year? * Is garbage from Mustique now being sent in container to mainland St. Vincent for disposal? Is this a daily occurrence? * Is a certain tourism-related development here disguising their garbage so that it avoids paying CWSA for that which it agreed?

was concerned, Vincentians would never turn away from what the ULP has done and has set in motion, in favour of Dr. Friday and the shallow promises of the New Democratic Party (NDP).

Dr. Friday and his team tried their best to excite Vincentians living in New York into accepting that the time was over for the ULP, and it was now time for the NDP to take SVG to further heights. The NDP impressed with the inclusion of two women in their team. They of course, highlighted the crime situation — and increasing violent deaths, as a sign that the ULP had failed to safeguard the population. This seemed to have gone down well with their party supporters.

The PM highlighted the many projects — especially those in the tourism industry — like the Sandals Resort which he said promised much for Vincentians.

One thing is pleasing: It is good to see that both Dr. Gonsalves and Dr. Friday recognize the importance of the Vincy Diaspora and the contribution that we make and will continue to make to the development of St.

Vincent and the Grenadines.

I wish to remind both gentlemen that that contribution also extends to influencing how persons back home might vote in the next election.

The Diaspora must not be ignored.

Garnet, NY.

Best wishes UWI Global Campus SVG IT IS WITH great pleasure that I would like to congratulate all graduating from the UWI Global Campus in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) on November 11, 2023, and the Valedictorian, Ms. Breya John. I would also like to take the opportunity to wish the recently retired Ms. Deborah Dalrymple, all the best in the future and thank her for her astute leadership of this institution. I also wish Ms. Camille Lackhram all the best in her new role as this educational institution keeps on evolving.

From the website: https://uwitv.global/news/uwi-news/the-uwigoes-from-open-to-global/ “From the Extra-Mural Department in 1948 evolved the School of Continuing Studies (SCS), and the further expansion of distance education services through UWIDITE and UWIDEC, to The UWI Open Campus, which was formally launched as part of the University’s 60th anniversary milestone in 2008. Commenting on the evolution, Vice-Chancellor Beckles said “This evolution to the Global Campus is both a strategic move and the next natural step in our already successful global strategy. We anticipate that the Global Campus will be a major pillar in the Revenue Revolution phase of our Triple A Strategy as through aggressive entrepreneurial activity, it takes our excellent programme offerings online to the regional and global academic markets. This is not the first time in our 75-year legacy that we have had to evolve. We will go at it as One UWI, with our signature resolve and I have no doubt that our Global Campus will only expand our reputation as a world-class University rooted in the Caribbean.”

Thanks to the employees of the now named UWI Global Campus who have always been so cordial and supportive to us over the years from the time of Dr. Adrian Fraser when Baldwin King launched his Chemistry text (2002) and I launched my work on Michael Manley (2003) there. We would like to wish this initiative much success and all the best in the future. Continue the good work.

Cheryl Phills King.

What nonsense!!!!!

IT SEEMS like the meanings of village and community are to be rewritten by the committee from the CDC, which organized the ‘best village’ competition during the SVG 44th Independence anniversary celebration.

When you look at what was presented for judging and where, one is left to believe that the committee should have asked for the best decorated bloc, corner, junction, or venue.

No way would the judges be of the opinion that these areas were being judged for the best village competition.

If so, the judges needed to be made to pay the awards for the places which placed. This was an insult to the best village competition, to say the least.

I want to think that the organizers found themselves falling back on some of the ideas that the NDP used to assist with community involvement and development in their time in government. Some of these ideas

resulted in the formation of community-based youth organizations which in turn strengthened the national youth movement in the state (see Block 2000 in the Montrose area).

I think that the time was too short for such a competition and that all who participated were not on a level playing field. Why were the winners supported with paint, bunting and printed banners from the venue supervisor? Bare nonsense.

Disappointed resident.

8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 9.

V

10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Promises made; programs delivered Introduction DURING the Parliamentary debate on the 2023 Budget, our Minister of Finance, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves delivered a classic analysis on the philosophy of the opposition NDP that is in play today. It is as relevant as it is evident, since it lays bare the all-out “war” waged against truth, decency and nobility in an attempt to secure an electoral win in the next General Elections. At the core of the NDP’s struggle is the fact that the ULP remains extremely popular among voters and especially so among youths because of the success of the government’s policies.

When the ULP made its proposals to the voters in 2001 through its manifesto, there were a number of fresh, new ideas that voters approved, as has been the case every election after that. The confidence of voters in subsequent elections since 2001, is due to the efficient delivery on the programs they voted for that have produced life-changing results and remarkable economic development.

The quandary for the NDP is that on every instance, they not only critiqued the plans of the ULP, they opposed them and told the worst lies about their implementation and success.

With the programs of the government proving to be extremely successful and popular among Vincentians, the NDP is now facing an uphill battle to win the confidence of voters, especially as they are unable to come up with credible plans of their own. They have however not allowed this reality to awaken them. They have decided instead to pursue a philosophy at the heart of which resides more lies, dishonesty and deceit.

Five stages of NDP opportunism Comrade Camillo’s exposé on the philosophy of the NDP under the caption, “the five stages of NDP opportunism” explained the hypocrisy and dishonesty of that party and it shows how their positions on matters of national importance shift over time.

In stage 1, which is usually a response to the announcement of a policy/program by the ULP, and the NDP’s immediate response has always been, “it’s a lie” or “it’s an election gimmick”. During this stage, they do their best to convince anyone who would listen that the program will never be implemented; that it’s just talk to fool Vincentians.

Once the program is implemented, making liars of the NDP so that they can no longer say it’s a lie, they then adjust their position and move to stage 2 where they now scream victimization. Here every effort is made to discredit the program by suggesting that only supporters of the ULP benefit, since by now they can no longer ignore its existence.

It’s not long before they enter into stage 3. At this point, the program is in full swing, Vincentians have accepted the program and are very supportive leaving the NDP alienated, so they pivot to a position of interest.

Stage 3 sees them pretending to show some interest in the program/policy and are now asking for more information, greater transparency, possibly the establishment of committees to oversee the continued implementation of the program.

Stage 4 is next. It’s close to another general elections and the very popular and successful program/policy is naturally one of the issues of the campaign, so they now embrace the program, admitting that it’s a good

program that they have always supported. The program is now integrated as part of their party’s manifesto with their full endorsement and a commitment to improve on the once heavily criticized program.

Stage 5 is the most dubious and exposes the absolute dishonesty of the NDP, when, in an effort to gain traction with voters regarding a ULP program, (that they previously said was an election gimmick and opposed in parliament), they claim boldly that said program was their idea in the first place. The turnaround is finally complete and now the message is that the ULP stole the idea from the NDP, a completely false narrative, but they tell the big lie shamelessly.

How they criticize, copy, then claim The most recent example of NDP opportunism was on full display during their recently concluded “Big Lie Tour” of North America where they made some ridiculous claims that were easily debunked. Their recent love affair with the Youth Empowerment (YES) Program is an obvious attempt to gain some traction among the youth population that has long lost any interest in what they have to offer. To counter this failing, they have made a 180 degree turn regarding the YES program making claims that are outrageously false, going through all 5 stages of opportunism. Firstly, the NDP criticized the YES program, referring to it as the youth exploitation service, and this criticism was done at the very top of leadership. No doubt, this unfair and crude criticism casted a negative light on the program and prevented some of their supporters from applying it. As the program got popular and hundreds of young people were benefitting from the training and experience offered, the NDP started saying that only ULP supporters were being placed on the program (stage 2).

Once stage 2 failed, they moved on to stage 3 where they then suggested that the implementation by the Youth Department was inadequate and didn’t offer much oversight of the program, so the government needed to change this to something more transparent. This was clearly a smoke screen. During the last elections, they vowed to improve the stipend paid to the YES interns, and most recently when they launched their youth guarantee pledge that offers to the youths, things that they already benefit from under the ULP, the YES program featured prominently. They are speaking supportively of the program, as if this was always their position and now claim that they will improve it for the benefit of the recipients. Quick fact: the YES program has been a 12-month program from its inception, involves the private sector component and the stipend amount was recently increased.

The NDP is now making overtures to move on to stage 5, where they would make the outright claim that the YES program was their idea initially. So far, they have made subtle suggestions that this or that element of the YES program was initiated by the NDP administration, but are yet to make the all-out claim that it was their idea and the ULP stole it. It’s just a matter of time, stage 5 loading.

Development of the new economy will benefit young people THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) has listed four economic pillars on which it will reconstruct the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They are agriculture, tourism, the blue economy and the new economy. The new economy includes information technology, sports, the creative industry and entertainment.

And, it has immense potential to generate economic activity, which will create employment and provide opportunities for our young people.

ULP failure The Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration has failed miserably to develop any sector of the new economy, even though promises were made to develop sports and culture.

For instance, the ULP promised to establish a school for music and the arts. After twenty-two years in power, Vincentians are still waiting for that school. There has been a significant decline in carnival, no improvement in the Nine Mornings activities and our creative industry is non-existent.

The ULP government has not delivered on its promise to improve and maintain sporting facilities in the country. For example, the headline of a news story of an online news outlet dated November 7, 2023, Captioned: “SVGFF announces change in venue for 2023 Concacaf Qualifiers”. The content of the article reveals that the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation is forced to take the games to Grenada because the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex is closed for renovation. These are important matches. They are the Concacaf National Leagues Qualifiers, and are scheduled to be played on November 21, 2023 and December 5, 2023. What an embarrassment! Our playing fields, which the ULP has been boasting about, cannot host regional games.

Our economy will lose revenue and football patrons will be denied the opportunity to watch the games and support Vincy Heat. The ULP has not fulfilled its promise to upgrade the playing fields. Our facilities are not good enough. It is time for a government to do what it says in providing public facilities and does not take Vincentians for granted.

Our plan As a sector of the new economy, we are cognizant of the benefits of sports to the economy of St. Vincent and Grenadines and the society in general.

Sports creates employment, secure inflow of foreign exchange and contributes significantly to the economic development of a country.

An NDP government will place emphasis to the development of sports.

Our mission is to facilitate the emergence of a culture of sports through the elevation of sports as a significant sector of national development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We appreciate the importance of sports to our youth, athletes, our people and our country.

We also recognize that early achievements in sports as a means for our young people to achieve higher education and better livelihoods. The youth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will benefit enormously from our impressive sports program, which will include a diversified scholarship portfolio that will open opportunities for college and university education. Most importantly, we will ensure that

meaningful employment is created for these youth after they have completed their studies.

The NDP will also develop a framework for upgrading and managing sports facilities at constituency and community levels.

We will implement a service, opportunity and support framework, which will ensure that sporting facilities are upgraded to accommodate the respective sporting disciplines. Community Sport Councils will be developed and sustained, to take ownership of the maintenance of the established facilities and supporting the programs for physical activity and sport in their respective communities. In addition, we will develop at least one playing field in each constituency to the extent that it can accommodate competition at the regionally level.

These facilities will be fully lit and will have pavilions and changing facilities. Where appropriate, particularly in areas where grass does not grow properly, playing surfaces will be converted to artificial surfaces. We will also play an integral role in assisting the various sporting associations with their coaching programs.

Our creative industry must be revived. We will take politics out of culture. The best and most innovative Vincentians must be able to participate in the creation of a viable, sustainable cultural industry, which can aid our development as a people, as well as usefully contribute to our country’s economy. We will revive the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) and make it once more the umbrella body and coordinator of all cultural activities nationally. The NCF, through its work with community-based groups and other cultural entities, will be responsible for encouraging the expression of our indigenous culture.

The NDP will build a National Cultural Centre. This centre will be the hub from which our performing and graphic artists will be encouraged to grow and develop. It will incorporate a well-designed, equipped and acoustically sound Performing Arts Facility. It will include a School of Music to accommodate the demands of music theory and practice, instrumental training, formal voice training, assistance to modern popular music, classical training, the gospel artistes, calypsonians, etc. We will create a National Youth Orchestra. Our graphic artists will be enabled to display their talents in the decoration of the public spaces as well as in the creation of sets and backdrops for all types of cultural performances. A National Cultural Centre will also provide spaces to house exhibitions of our artists’ work.

We value the importance of information technology. It is here and we need to put it to work for our development. Therefore, we see the expansion of information technology as an important sector, which will provide opportunities for our young people. We will place emphasis on information technology to tackle the unemployment situation, which exists among our youths, in this country. The new economy is an important pillar of our economic development, and we are committed to developing it, for the advancement of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 11.

Views

The Power of Acceptance

“Acceptance is the first step towards peace.” – Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014) – American poet and civil rights activist.

HOMES, SCHOOLS, WORKPLACES, churches, and the wider community appear to be at harmony when the culture of acceptance abounds. Acceptance is considered a basic human need. It is foundational to harmonious living.

Accepting self and accepting others fuel warmth and camaraderie even amidst the various differences that exist throughout our communities. It is a willingness to embrace diversity and divergent thought irrespective of gender, education attainment, nationality, ethnicity, political allegiance, and religion. Such an approach to life and living strengthens the fabric of society and reinforces the truism that acceptance is not only a virtue but also a necessity.

Cable television and the numerous online platforms that now abound provide multiple opportunities for transmitting thoughts. Unfortunately, some individuals and groups use this media for the propagation of hatred and unhealthy prejudices. Cyberbullying is also evident on some platforms and in some chatrooms. However, we are encouraged by the number of avenues that have opened up to share thoughts that encourage acceptance across the various divides. Decent people are able to share thoughts that allow mankind to show more empathy and acceptance of individuals who display a different skin colour, nationality, gender, and so on.

These disciples of peace and harmony remind us that although we are different, we are not different. They champion the cause for greater tolerance across the various divides and echo the priceless thoughts expressed by the late Princess Diana (1961-1997) when she said, “The greatest problem in the world today is intolerance.”

Acceptance requires us to see situations from another person’s perspective; we need to walk in the other person’s shoes. Such selfless actions enable us to develop empathy.

In doing so we discover that we readily feel and develop the ability to understand and better appreciate the emotions of others. Empathy enables us to bridge the divide and allows us to better understand the other person’s anxieties, concerns, experiences, and challenges. In doing so we discover the true beauty of diversity and the richness that emanates from interacting with people who may be from a different race, religion, geographic region, or culture. Acceptance opens the door to a richer, fuller life.

It is often heart wrenching to read or view reports of angry or unhappy individuals or groups that refuse to accept or live harmoniously with individuals from various backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. We can learn so much from individuals whose cultures are different to ours. Their experiences can enrich our lives (and we theirs). It is by accepting and celebrating diversity that we create and sustain societies that value the uniqueness of each individual.

We are all fearfully and wonderfully made … even with our imperfections.

Accepting this reality should encourage each of us to be more accepting of each other.

Prejudices and discriminations have plagued mankind for centuries. Even in instances where persons have common features it is amazing how the seeds of discrimination are allowed to thrive (e.g., the conflicts in the middle east, religious and ethnic differences in India, tribal conflicts in several African states,

etc.). Accepting differences and challenging stereotypes can lay the foundation for greater harmony and inclusion; bridging the divide and building stronger bonds of friendship.

Acceptance can also be a stimulus for growth on a personal level. Each of us, with our flaws and shortcomings, can do so much more to add value to those around us when we accept our humanness and demonstrate genuine self-compassion and self-acceptance.

This, too, allows us to show empathy for others (who are also imperfect).

It is sometimes evident that individuals are struggling with selfacceptance. Some may unwisely engage in self-destructive behaviours even as they crave for the acceptance from others. There are too many examples of individuals who pursue sexual activities, the consumption of alcohol and drugs, and other undesirable behaviours as they chase the oftenelusive fake versions of acceptance; seeking sympathy but needing love; wishing for company but needing a companion; seeking momentary happiness but needing the joy that comes from being at peace with self.

Self-acceptance is a critical component in the quest for deep peace and happiness.

Guilt, shame, and regret are often present and evident in the lives of individuals who refuse to rid themselves of the burden of poor choices. Some of these may have been made in anger or when under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Concerned and dedicated counsellors are often able to provide release and thereby enable the individual to refocus and thereby better able to make a gainful contribution to their lives, their families, and the society at large. Accepting our humanness and being willing to accept self can make a significant difference in the final outcome in an individual’s life.

Many books, paintings, and sculptures have sought to portray the outstretched hands of Jesus Christ of Nazareth reaching out to accept vile sinners. His grace and His mercy have been highlighted throughout the New Testament and many can testify of the peace and contentment that is evident when they have grown to accept His forgiveness. He is described as the friend who sticks closer than a brother.

His acceptance of vile sinners provide hope in a world that appears to be plagued by a feeling of hopelessness.

In a world plagued by prejudices emanating from differences, acceptance beckons to be the healing balm. It is a power for unity and progress. It is perceived to be the first step towards peace with self and others. Each of us, by practicing acceptance in our lives, contribute to building and maintaining a more harmonious world. We engage in conducting a thorough inspection and analysis of our biases, prejudices, and weaknesses and designing and implementing strategies to overcome them. We then become disciples of positive change encouraging harmony over discord and division; advocating the power of acceptance and its ability to transform lives and communities for the better.

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

The search for facts and truth THE EXPLOSIVE EXPANSION in telecommunications has brought to our eyes, ears, voices and fingertips information, facts and an avenue to knowledge and greater understanding.

This unprecedented access to information via smartphones, Wi-Fi connection and the internet means that there may well be more facts and less knowledge.

With the ease of access comes a flood of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and alternative facts. This rush of information has caused great confusion and disorientation among large sections of the population. Some protest that they don’t know what to believe or who to trust.

Who to believe or trust? Are our schools, churches, leaders and other socialising institutions reliable sources? Should we trust our own beliefs or opinions? Where do ideas come from? Are the ideas and opinions we hold really ours, or are we simply repeating what we observe, read or hear without examining and interrogating them?

When I lived in the United States, I remember a bumper sticker that said, ‘The bible said it, I believe it, end of story.’ Another way of making a similar expression is to say, ‘My country, right or wrong.’ But the question looms large: Is unquestioned allegiance to anyone or anything wise or useful?

There is a radio program called Scriptural Search. It grapples with the biblical text in search of meaning and answers to everyday issues and problems. It makes for good listening even though one may not always agree with either the host, guests or conclusions. It is the search that matters.

Similarly, James Baldwin, the celebrated American literary giant, said, ‘I am most critical of my country because it is all that I’ve got.’

Experience has shown that the mass mind is to be frowned on. It fosters groupthink and a single view of everything. And we all know the dangers of a single story. It can lead to draconian measures, misinformation and disinformation.

We are not far removed from the days when powerful forces told us that the Covid vaccine offered complete prevention and protection against infection, transmission, hospitalisation and death from the illness. Anyone, including highly qualified doctors, virologists and epidemiologists, not to mention ordinary citizens with common sense who questioned the preferred narrative, were chastised and vilified.

Many lost their livelihood and much more. Now, we are told after all of the carnage that the authorities never said that the vaccine offered complete protection. Experiences over the last two years constitute living proof of the dangers of the single story.

We must all say Never Again.

Never must we allow our emotions and actions to be driven by fear, the lowest of all vibrations. In the darkest hour, we must force ourselves to stop and think.

The futuristic thinker Alvin Tofler said the illiterate of the 21st century are not those who cannot read or write but those who refuse to learn, unlearn and relearn.’ This is a

profound thought that more of us should embrace. Nothing is settled for all times. Change is the only constant.

We must always look for information that challenges our worldview and be prepared to do away with untested, outmoded and refuted ideas.

Critical thinking is fundamental to self-development. Only through critical thinking can we truly become problem solvers. No one disputes that our country is saddled with a mountain of problems. More of us need to learn to question.

There is a great danger in surrendering one’s thoughts.

Everyone must learn to process ideas for themselves. In the era of fake news and alternate facts, misinformation and disinformation, the search for knowledge takes on an even greater importance. The ancients were correct in saying, ‘She who knows that she knows little knows the most.’ An appreciation for the limits of your understanding is the engine that ought to propel us to go in search of more knowledge.

Even though we believe that the universe is knowable, we are confronted by the harsh reality that there are known knowns. These are things that we know that we know.

There are known unknowns; that is to say, there are things that we know that we don’t know. But there are unknown unknowns. There are things we don’t know we don’t know.

Therefore, how do we arrive at the truth? Are facts truth, and are truth factual? Some say that facts and truths are different things. But are they? A fact is something that is indisputable, based on empirical research and quantifiable measures.

Facts go beyond theories. They are proven through calculation or experience.

Truth is discovered facts. For example, the chemical formula for water is H2O. Two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. This formula holds true whether we are on the continent of Africa, in Australia, or Antigua. It is also true that an egg from a woman and a sperm from a man allow for conception and the miracle of a newborn baby. It is a fact and true that Ralph Gonsalves has been prime minister of our country since April 1, 2001. Therefore, truth, like facts, is universal and testable.

Sometimes, a given view is presented and repeated by the most respected and authoritative voices. It doesn’t mean that it is either factual or true. One of the best examples of this is Colin Powell’s persuasive but lying 2003 presentation to the UN Security Council about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Powell’s performance led to the invasion of Iraq, the destruction of the country and the death and displacement of millions of Iraqis.

Similarly, one does not have a university degree to be wise and discerning. Wisdom is found in the simplest of places in the nick of time.

As it should, the search for facts and truth continues.

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

V

12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023 . THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

The disgraceful neglect of the road to Fort Charlotte THERE CAN be no plausible case made to justify the glaring state of neglect which has persisted over these several years relative to the road to Edinboro and the distinctly historic site ‘Fort Charlotte’.

It is past amazing that this disgraceful abandonment of the area has happened even at a period when our administrators have been convincing the citizens of this country that Tourism must be the main thrust in the economic development of our country. This has been the declared main thrust that had been conceived by former Prime Minister James Mitchell when he expressed the view that St. Vincent and the Grenadines could not depend on agriculture to develop its people.

It must be noted that he was a trained agronomist! He pledged to transform our economy to one that was “services-based”. In that endeavour he set about to attract expatriates to build hotels in the Grenadines. The local people he said would get employment working in the hotel industry. Under the “Mitchell development plan”, about two-thirds of the land in Canouan was handed over to expatriate business people who were accommodated with very generous privileges of authority.

It is indeed remarkable that Mr. James Mitchell’s approach with respect to his seeming indifference to the future needs of the Grenadines people with respect to the availability of land provoked strong

disapproval from Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, when the ULP were in the opposition.

He was passionate on the matter and he seemed sincere!

Vincentians still clearly remember that Glen Jackson who had been a strong voice in Dr. Gonsalves ULP party, had done several presentations on radio on the issues relative to Mr. Mitchell’s injustice to the Grenadine people.

But what is the reality today? Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and his governing ULP party have adopted the very same approach that had been structured by James Mitchell and his NDP government. In some societies persons who so blatantly exhibit such inconsistencies are regarded as ‘frauds’.

What is the situation in

St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

As a representative of the farming community, I must continue to lament the disappointment of our local administrators, whose attitude in respect of enhancing the potential for development which our strong agriculture-based society seemed well positioned to capitalize on towards the end of the twentieth century. They seemingly have given no weight to the fact that the British colonizers had earned healthy income by planting crops on these soils. That wealth has allowed them to achieve the standard of living and influence which their people enjoy today.

It must be remembered that less than four years ago, the two parties which have shared the governance of our country over the last forty-four years, through their leaders, expressed the view, that we in SVG could not depend on agriculture to strengthen our economic development. Both groups said we had to depend on tourism!

So from the mound on which I sit, there can be no reasonable excuse for the condition that the road to Edinboro and Fort Charlotte has been abandoned for these several years. Were we not told that we were hoping for the reviving of vibrant tourism activity, have we not been hearing that over the last several months?

We have been blaming our lack of satisfactory progress in vital areas of our nation’s business, on ‘COVID-19’, ‘La Soufriere eruption’, ‘hurricane

Elsa’, ‘and drought conditions’. Undoubtedly those episodes have caused our people much stress, but let us be honest with ourselves, the most persistently agonizing element over the last several decades has been “governmental mismanagement”.

We need to commence the discussions now, so that we could determine the corrective course — ‘Reparation, Respair, Repair’. Let us get the season started!

LeRoy Providence

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 13.

14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 15.

16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

V Eulogy for Simon Lewis

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 17.

Tribute

Delivered by his daughter Zenell Grecia Rogers union produced six daughters four biological Joenell, Zenell, Zonell, Kashan and two adopted Alicia and Sashan. Dad had a son Casnel Forde outside with Ann Forde.

This didn’t change our family dynamic; we our one and only brother.

My dad worked six days a week from 6pam to 11pm, according to business in the resort, and in those days, the resort - Salt Whistle Bay - had a swing. Monday Simon Lewis – Mayreau’s community chef was his day off.

– an unsung hero.

My dad was a family man. He SIMON LEWIS, affectionately called Uncle Simon, Sio, Shorty, was the backbone of our family. He dedicated his life to Chief, Crotch, Godfather, us. He felt that it was his Grandpa, was born in Mayreau duty to take of his family. on 27th June 1958, to Sylvia Glynn and George Lewis. He was Even with his health issues he raised by grandmother Ma Ethel still forced himself to ensure and companion Uncle Take until that his family was taken care the age of eleven. Tanty Lilly and of.

He loved his wife dearly Tan Jess took in him and cared and even spoiled her. On for him until he was an adult.

Mother’s Day and her These ladies played an birthday, he ensured she had instrumental role in the man a special breakfast and made that he was. her favourite dishes for lunch He obtained his primary lasagna being one of those. her education at the Mayreau favorite.

Government School and My dad ensures that his started fishing and diving at children lacked nothing. He an early age. would sacrifice everything just At age 19 years he started to ensure we were happy. Food is first job as a gardener in Petit St. Vincent (PSV), and it was always on our table.

Whenever my sisters and I was there he discovered his were promoted to another love for cooking and later class, my dad would and give moved up to staff cook. his salary to my mon saying, On returning home to “This is for books”.

Mayreau for a vacation, he During our secondary met his Cherry Vasilka ‘Rosie’ education my dad would Grecia who was working at ensure our boarding money Salt Whistle Bay (Canash) at the time. He did not return to was sent up weekly along with our pocket change. An extra PSV having obtained a job at change was sent on our Salt Whistle Bay Resort as a birthdays along with our chef. birthday cakes.

During this time, he My dad’s spoilt his pursued his relationship with grandchildren, giving them our mom. Christopher Forde, “Uncle Steadman”, housed my anything they wanted — their favourite meals, snacks, ice dad and my mom along with cream, you name it. his first two daughters until Our attitude was, he never my dad was able to build his left us hungry so leave him first home.

After completing his home, and his grandchildren alone.

Dad had a passion for my dad and mom married on diving. On his day off, he 5th September 1987. Last would go diving around the September they celebrated island and would share with 36years of marriage. This

Simon’s final resting place in the Mayreau cemetery. his neighbours from his catch of the day.

He was a spotter for fish.

Whenever he saw a school of fish he would get all excited, run to uncle Michael to get the seine ready and round up the men and women to throw (the seine).

After working 33 years at Salt Whistle, my dad went home with an empty pocket.

With his family to take care of, he found employment as a labourer on the construction of Tribu Resort now Trade winds.

One day he came to his wife and told her he was going to start baking bread. He would do his construction work in the day and bake bread in the night and early morning. He soon added a few dishes such as chicken and chips, burgers and fries, fish and fries and sandwiches. Subway could not touch him. We had our own ‘foot long’ and ‘half a foot long’ sandwiches.

All of this was done for three years in his own home until he built a small bakery above his home. He baked twice a day, cooked affordable fast food daily, and hosted a barbeque on Saturdays.

Cooking was my dad’s love; you just had to have a function and call him. We would go to Canouan, Union Island, Petit Martinique and St. Vincent and cook for many weddings free of charge.

I remember when I was getting married I told my dad I was having a breakfast wedding and he said no way.

He said I cooked for other people’s wedding and he has to cook for his daughter’s wedding. My dad cooked for my sisters and my wedding and still walked us up aisle.

Even with his health challenges he had an input in

my last sister’s wedding in June this year.

My dad was loving and kind hearted person he would debt individuals who came in the island for work without hesitation some would leave the island without paying their bill and that didn’t bother him. He would always say food is nothing and he knows how it feels to be hungry.

My Dad was a community spirited person. Once there is a function you didn’t have to ask he would make himself available or he would donate dishes.

Before 3 am he was up baking and when asked why, he always replied, “I have to get bread ready for them fishermen to go out”.

Daddy was always busy doing something; he just could not sit idly by. When we urged him to take a rest, he retorted with: “Alyo want me dead”.

He would put other’s needs before his. He took pleasure in making other people happy not only through his cooking skills but his jovial personality. He would light up any room.

When his condition affected his mobility early this year

and he could no longer go out to bakery, he was saddened that he could not provide his service to his family and his community.

Tuesday 29th August 2023 is a day I will always remember. We thought that was it for daddy; he went to death’s door and back. The Lord heard our cries and granted us little more time with him.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have used my nursing kkills with the assistance of my family, to nurse him back to life. He was able to return home to Mayreau, which was his wish, and died peacefully on 7th October, 2023.

Daddy would surely be missed by wife, children, grandchildren, family, friends and the entire community of Mayreau. He was a blessed man of the soil who would have touched many lives. He could never be replaced.

Thanks to all those who called, messaged, offered support during our time of grief. We appreciate all the love and Support. R.I.P. daddy until we meet again. We love you but Jesus loves you best.

Good bye.

Wife Vasilca (2nd from left) taking final look at Simon.

V

18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Math mentors for SMSS

Olaivar told THE VINCENTIAN that the ON MONDAY 6TH mentors will be charged NOVEMBER, during the with leading a certain school’s morning assembly number of students in a session, some eleven group, and have them students of the St. work extra time after Left: (Back row from the left): Donnie Collins Jr., Jaheim Jack, Urijah Lyttle, Martin’s Secondary School school.

Royon Handy, Bashar Abu-eid, Kareem Davis; (Middle row from the left): The programme will Kody Thomas, Martin Young, Jamar Saunders, Wasim Nelson, Jadelle Hector; (SMSS) were pinned by members of the provide assistance to (Front row from left): Mr. Shane Clarke -Math teacher, Ms. Marneen Olaiver Mathematics Department, improve the Head of the Math Department and Ms. Avanel Hector - Math teacher. in recognition of their new performances in Maths role as Math Mentors at for students from the the school. lower forms up to Form According to Ms. 5.

Marneen Olaivar, Head However, as far as the of the Mathematics inauguration period of Department at SMSS the programme is and originator of the idea concerned, concentration for that particular form will be placed on weak of mentorship, “A Math students in Forms 4 and Mentor at SMSS, is a 5, especially those who student who showcases have experienced gaps in strong Mathematical learning and have skills from Form 4 up to difficulty with complex Form 5. In other words, problems. they are our students “There is a need that who are basically must be tackled right excelling in academics in now if students are to Mathematics and of have a guiding hand course, who showed especially among their consistent work ethics peers,” the department towards the subject.” head stated. “So, Forms She also explained 4 and 5 are strategic that to become a mentor, years, especially in Form a student must have 4 when the CXC syllabus demonstrated a is begun in earnest. We willingness to help other chose this year Form 4 to students who are prepare those boys who manifesting weak really need help towards performances in CSEC preparation.”

Mathematics.

The Mathematics As for their real Department’s move to responsibilities, Ms.

by GLORIAH...

establish the Maths Mentorship progamme is based on the observation that students who are weak in the subject area, are timid and ashamed to ask teachers questions in class and are more comfortable having the discussion with their friends.

“It’s actually different when teachers are teaching and when students are teaching their peers. They can reach out to those students who have difficulty understanding teachers in the class.

“Mentors can actually break down concepts to their level using their particular layman’s terms of communication, thereby putting their peers at ease as they facilitate their comprehension of the subject matter. It’s really different,” was the Department’s take on the issue.

The goal, therefore, is to reach out to students who are really weak in the subject area.

At the end of the day, the Mathematics Department of the SMSS is determined not to leave any student behind, and will encourage any legitimate means through which a weak or slow student can receive help towards achieving a better grade.

Grenada to host IMD conference MEN FROM ACROSS investigate, they put you THE CARIBBEAN will out.” gather on the Spice Isle He continued, “It seems — Grenada - for the first as though men do not ever regional conference matter…and we need to to commemorate empower men. We need to International Men’s Day elevate and explore all the (IMD) . avenues of men for positive The conference, held transformation.” under the theme, The Conference will “Embrace, Elevate and feature, among others, Empower”, will take lectures on gender place from 15th — 19th emasculation and Michael Stewart November. entrepreneurship, and Ambassador/ Speaking on a recent participants will visit and Coordinator for episode of “Tobago interact with persons in International Men’s Updates a TV magazine jail, home for boys, bars Day Caribbean. show, Michael Stewart, and other hang out spots.

Caribbean The hope is that Ambassador/Coordinator for agreements and policies could be International Men’s Day, revealed designed for future implementation. that this was the first regional Persons interested in learning more conference dealing specifically with can visit the Facebook page, issue affecting men.

International Men’s Day Regional Noting that the United Nations has Conference 2023, where they can also 10 days throughout the year that focus register. women and girls, there, he lamented, Meanwhile, a call has been made to “we have not been treated the best the United Nations to reconsider the over the years and there are a number November 19 date designated as of things that we have been International Men’s Day, since that disenfranchised with. When it comes date is also recognised World Toilet to men, if a woman reports that a man Day. (SG) has been abusive, the police don’t

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 19.

Business

RFHL records US$262m profit THE CHAIRMAN of Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), Vincent Pereira, announced today that the Group recorded profit attributable to its equity holders of US$262 million for the year ended September 30, 2023. This is an increase of US$33.4 million or 14.6% over the 2022 reported profit of US$228 million.

In announcing the results Mr. Pereira said, “The strength of our Group lies in our ability to harness the quality of our people and our enviable balance sheet to serve our customers, along with our geographically diverse portfolio of assets.

The characteristics that make our Group resilient such as fiscal discipline, strong risk management culture, effective governance framework and robust The Chairman of capital, continue to serve us Republic Financial well, and have created an Holdings Limited excellent foundation from (RFHL), Vincent which we can continue to Pereira had the deliver sustainable results. pleasure to As we look ahead, we announce another acknowledge that the global year of profit. economic landscape remains uncertain and that the financial services industry is continually evolving.

We anticipate further changes and challenges in the years to come, but we are well prepared to navigate those challenges and seize all opportunities as they arise.”

He went on to say, “A key and underpinning plank of our strategy is to deliver a digital transformation that positions RFHL as the leading digital financial group in the markets where we operate. We have developed a comprehensive plan to achieve this goal. Our vision of digital transformation encompasses the strategic adoption of digital technologies, data-driven insights and customer-centric approaches to improve the customer/employee experience, optimize service and create personalized experiences. By embracing a digitally empowered ecosystem, we aim to empower customers, improve efficiency, foster innovation and maintain a sustainable competitive advantage in all our markets.”

The Board of Directors has declared a final dividend of US$0.61 (2022: US$0.52) per share to be paid on December 1, 2023 to all shareholders of record on November 16, 2023. This brings the total dividend to US$0.78 (2022: US$0.67) per share for the fiscal year, an increase of 15.6% or US$0.11 over 2022. At a closing share price of US$18.12, this dividend represents a dividend yield of 4.30% (2022: 3.21%). The company will be moving to a quarterly frequency for dividend payouts in fiscal 2024.

Mr. Pereira concluded, “In the face of dynamic market conditions and an evolving financial landscape, the RFHL Group continues to adapt and deliver strong positive results, while maintaining robust capital adequacy ratios across all our subsidiaries and at the consolidated level. This success could not have been realized without the

talented, resilient and committed staff across the fourteen (14) countries in which we operate. For their continued high level of commitment and their dedication to our customers, I am truly grateful.”

(Source: RFHL)

Headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago, Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) is the registered owner of all the banks in the Republic Group –including the branch in Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

V

20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Art Feature

FOCUS ON THE VISUAL ARTS: Spotlighting Wilson Joseph Additionally, Wilson is a firm believer in guaranteeing the perpetuation of the art.

With the next generation in mind, visual artist Wilson Joseph is always prepared to give advice and tutorials for honing simple artistic skills.

This is important “...because if you negate them, then you cannot accomplish the desired end,” he posited, even as he spoke of “..... thinking outside the box, and daring to dream of a better future.”

Wilson Joseph can be reached in Stubbs Village and on Facebook at “Creative Wonders”.

Part of Wilson Joseph’s wide and varied portfolio of acrylic on canvas, at the recent Everything Vincy Expo Plus 2023.

Wilson Joseph next to one of his paintings that denotes his ‘realistic style’.

Right: ‘The Good Old Days’ – a creation that is close to the artist’s sense of Caribbean life.

by GLORIAH...

IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION of Focus on the Visual Arts, attention is focused on visual artist Wilson Joseph.

A Grenadian by birth, Wilson came to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2012 to attend Bible College. In 2016, he married a Vincentian woman and now lives in Stubbs Village.

THE VINCENTIAN caught up with Wilson at the Everything Vincy Expo Plus 2023.

He related that his skills were enhanced, having successfully completed Visual Arts with CXC and thereafter, he dedicated himself to honing his skills through consistent practice.

Through the course of time, Wilson became a prolific producer of original pieces of art that captured real life images of his environment, past and present, most of which were presented through his preferred medium of acrylic on canvas.

One would have thought that by now, his work would have been occupying special spaces in local homes and commercial outlets.

That seems not to be the case since, as Wilson admitted, he has employed minimal

marketing skills to drive sale of his product.

As a result, his pieces remained primarily unsold. As a matter fact, he told THE VINCENTIAN he had been giving away his art to enthusiastic onlookers. He was clear though that, “...the idea of art has always been a part of me”, and he “... continued to practice so that I could produce good and realistic paintings.”

That said, any visitor to Wilson’s booth at the recent Everything Vincy Expo would have easily been taken in by the quality and value of the paintings on display.

The entire display featured seventeen paintings, all acrylic on canvas, with themes boasting a home-grown, Caribbean study and flair.

When asked about a particular piece of significance to him, he identified a painting titled “The Good Old Days”. This showed a young boy enjoying the pleasure of being doused over his head, with water from a bucket.

According to Wilson, “That is so because I have a little son. He loves to play when the rain is falling and I told him in the good old days, we used to go outside in

the rain and play. But he doesn’t have that love because most times when rain is falling, the parent will take the child and bring him in. That crossed my mind and right there and then the idea came together and I decided that I’m going to paint a picture entitled ‘the good old days’, with a young man bathing outside with water running down his skin from a bucket. That’s my favourite piece of painting and I spent seventy-two hours on it.”

The piece was riveting to the eye. The pleasure on the face of the boy and the transparency of the water were the features that drew the viewer in.

This same attention to detail was evident in every single piece of work on display. Wilson was adamant that, even as persons would tell him he creates “fine art”, he rather sees it as “... art with finesse, in the sense that when I create something I make it look realistic in good proportion and so on.

They see detailed painting with a smooth finish. That’s what it’s all about.”

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 21.

News

Heavy Duty Trucks under scrutiny

Trucks, particularly those transporting heavy loads that use the road network throughout the country, have come under scrutiny.

Montgomery Daniel, Minister of Transport, Housing, etc., said that there are a lot of secondary roads that have deteriorated because of this.

“And with more and more vehicles coming into the country, it has become much more demanding on the government to ensure that the roads are in the best condition,” Daniel said while speaking on NBC Radio’s Faceto-Face programme on November 8.

He explained that traditionally, the roads were designed and constructed to accommodate a specific load carrying capacity, and that was so because there were not as many heavy trucks and trailers utilizing the roads.

“So that the asphalt when laid, were done so at a minimum of two inches,” he said, adding that this was able to facilitate a maximum weight of about 12 tons.

The roads were re-designed to accommodate some of the heavier trucks on the road, but now there were bigger trucks and trailers on the roads, and the trailers were taking greater load.

According to Daniel, there were trucks now carrying up to 20 tons of load and trailers transporting up to 55 tons of weight.

“We have a problem because the roads at the moment are designed at a specific weight carrying capacity,” he explained.

Even contractors were guilty of doing damage to the roads, he said, when moving heavy equipment around.

Daniel mentioned an incident where

Montgomery Daniel, Minister of Transport, etc., may have made a case for increased fees imposed on heavy duty truck and other equipment.

Example of the size of trucks that have become commonplace on the roads in SVG. a 55- ton excavator was being moved and crossed a section of road where a drain was located under the road’s surface.

The weight of the excavator caused the surface of the road to sink and expose the drain.

“So, you see what are the problems there; because of that, we have to be concerned as to how we proceed,” Daniel said.

“We have a problem and having identified that problem, the matter was brought before the transport board for review,” he continued.

He said that he too met with the Transport Board and at that meeting it was determined that the disparity between the fees charged to such heavy vehicles and the load bearing capacity, was disparity.

The Transport Board was asked to further review the matter and to make recommendations to the Ministry of Transport and Works, the minister said.

“All of this we are packaging together because more and more vehicles are on the road and more and more heavier vehicles are now on the road. Which means one or two things, either the cost of the road is increased, or we look at how we can restrict the larger trucks,” he said.

If the cost of the roads is to increase, then of course it goes without saying, but there must be increases in fines and fees,” Daniel contended.

He used the United States as an example saying that trucks were prohibited from using certain routes,

Construction equipment transported on heavy duty flatbed trucks double the impact on the roads. and if they broke the law then there were consequences.

“I don’t know if we can afford it…but there had to be some levels of reclassification. There must be some way of having things reviewed and changed.”

But he said that he was not preempting the work of the Transport Board but was waiting to see what recommendations would result. (DD)

Burglary foiled in Campden Park TWO SECURITY GUARDS, working in the vicinity of Marine and General and Allan’s Bakery in Campden Park, were tied up by masked gunmen who attempted to break into the businesses in the area, including the Eastern Caribbean Bottlers Inc. (ECBI) building.

Reports are that in the wee hours of Thursday 2nd November, about 6 masked men, armed with cutting devices and weapon-like instruments, overcame the two security guards, tied them up and proceeded

to cut the fence located at the back of Eastern Caribbean Bottlers Limited.

It was a worker who was sleeping in the Marine and General building who first became aware that something was amiss, after he was awakened by a commotion, which turned out to be a tussle between one of the guards and one of the burglars.

He was able to called the police and alert them to the burglary in progress.

When the police arrived on the scene,

some of the burglars were on already on the roof of a building close to the ECBI building and managed to escape.

A source, who lives a short distance from where the incident occurred, said that had the police come in a more organized manner, they would have caught the burglars.

“They come with one transport and like go to the front of Ju-C (ECBI building). If they had surrounded the area where the thing bin happening, then the thieves could ah get catch,” said the source.

The area in Campden Park (buildings on the right) were the burglary was attempted.

The sound of a gunshots was also reported as the thieves made their escape, leaving behind their cutting equipment, one shoe and a cellphone, the source said.

A police source

confirmed the incident and told THE VINCENTIAN that a number of persons have been held for questioning.

The South Leeward and West Kingstown communities have

experienced a spike in burglary and robbery, with a number of reports of same coming from the communities of Vermont, Campden Park, Plan and Great House, and Lowmans. (KH)

V

22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Getting back at him Dear George, MY HUSBAND claimed to have gone away on a business trip but he didn’t know his deeds were about to catch up with him.

Little did he know, the receptionist who checked he and his concubines at the hotel was a friend of mine. She gave me all the info I needed, including that the two women he took along were married.

He is still away as I write this so I took the first step of sending him a video of me and two men massaging my back and feet, while all of us were in the nude.

He cursed me out and threatened to disgrace me when he got home. In fact, he said he wanted me gone.

I returned the favour by telling him all that I knew about his little trip.

George, I plan to have the husbands of these women meet them at the airport. It is time people start paying for their wicked deeds, especially those women who pretend to be all that and more in society. Let the games begin. I am not interested in salvaging this marriage. I am done!

Revenge is Sweet.

Dear Revenge is Sweet, I do not advocate fighting fire with fire; that approach always ends by getting all parties in a deeper quagmire.

Releasing this information to the husbands of these women can and will serve no good. Your issue is with your husband.

If as you say, you are done with this man and have no intention of patching things up, then it’s best you seek legal advice as it pertains to the dissolution of the marriage.

I suggest, however, that you give yourself a cooling off period before proceeding with your plan of action.

At the end of the day, two wrongs still do not make anything right.

George.

You have no case!

Dear George,

I RENTED the upper portion of my house to this young adult female.

She has been my tenant now for 3 months and has paid her rent on time.

The only problem I have is she is carrying all sorts of men to the house.

I occupy the downstairs and I cannot sleep because of the sexual noises coming from upstairs. Sometimes she comes home very late at night and the floor upstairs creaks when she starts her carrying on, and this annoying noise sometimes goes into the morning hours.

I am a Christian woman and I do not want that kind of behavior in my house. Why can’t she settle with one man instead of different men every day? Should I talk to her about her sexual activities? What can I do to fix this problem?

Out of Solutions.

Dear Out of Solutions, You must first understand that by renting your house, the tenant has the legal right to go and come as they please and to invite whomever to their home. Unfortunately, you have no say over what lifestyle your tenant chooses to live once they are not breaking the law.

As far as the sexual noises are concerned, you can address that by fixing the floor, thus eliminating the creaking sounds. Being extremely sexually active is not a crime and you cannot dictate to your tenant in accordance with your religious beliefs. Maybe the wearing of earplugs might be a good start in addressing the problem.

George.

AllÊs well that ends well Dear George, THANK YOU so much for the advice you gave to me back there when I was in a very dark place. I just want to update you a bit on things.

My best friend who sabotaged my engagement so that she could get my man for herself, well they ended up getting married but they lasted less than 5 months. Another woman apparently snatched him away from her. Everything you told me was so correct!

I’m now living in the USA, happily married and expecting my first child.

One thing I did learn was a thief is never afraid to steal from another thief.

Grateful.

Dear Grateful, Good friends are hard to come by, and it is sad when people enter your life under the guise of being a good friend and end up betraying your trust. I am glad things worked out for you in the end.

It can be very difficult to see the bigger picture when it is necessary to do so, which is why reaching out for help is a good thing to do. I wish you well.

George.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Talk to superiors about problems that you feel are getting out of hand. Try not to hesitate; act on your initial instincts.

Your charisma will no doubt attract a lot of attention. Don't let someone try to bully you into doing things their way.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may find yourself caught in the middle of an argument that has nothing to do with you. You must take care not to over exert yourself if involved in sports. Be prepared to lose friends or alienate other people if you insist on being stub born.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Rethink your motives and make the necessary changes to yourself. You need to look into ways to change your selfimage. You could be misinterpreted if you're not careful. You need to enjoy the company of those who enjoy the same pastimes.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your domestic scene could continue to be in an uproar this week. Make residential changes that will lift your spirits.

Opportunities for travel must be carefully considered. One of your female friends may try to disrupt your day. Stand up for your rights.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Look into events that you might find interesting, and compromise by doing a few things that you both like to do. Your personal situation is fluctuating. Try not to spend too much on children or entertainment. Obstacles may stand in your way where career and success are concerned.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You need to pamper yourself for a change.

Avoid lending money or belongings to friends. If you go shopping, only take what you can afford to part with. You may be upset if someone has borrowed something that belongs to you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Later in the week your boss will pat you on the back for a job well done. Don't be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. If you're uncertain of your feelings, keep your opinions to yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will have to be careful not to let others find out about your intentions.

Instant romance could be yours if you go out with friends. Don't go hog wild when it comes to entertainment or you could find yourself short of funds at the end of the month.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You'll find it easy to talk about your feeling this week. Don't hesitate to find out what your mate's intentions are.

You have bent over backward trying to help them and now it's time to let them stand on their own two feet.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Try not to allow superiors or those in a higher position to take advantage of you.

You can make drastic changes in your professional direction this week. Take time to catch up on overdue correspondence.

You can make changes to your home that will be pleasing to all concerned.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Verbal abuse could lead to carelessness.

Unexpected bills will leave you a little short. Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are evident. Reevaluate your motives.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You can make a huge difference to children if you are able to put yourself in their shoes. Channel your energy wisely and you can score points with the boss.

Moneymaking ventures may just turn your life around.

ACROSS 1. Truant status 5. Lackland or Keesler 12. Saudi neighbor 13. Organized again after a setback 15. Roamed about 16. In working order 17. Three-dotted domino 18. Changing 19. Tuna type 20. Singing for a lady, e.g.

22. Fully ripe egg 23. Bedridden 24. Rouses 26. Bangle 27. Attacks 28. Spheres 29. Crime scene clues 30. Country singer West 31. Stashes DOWN 32. Robust 1. Love, in Roma 33. Grandma’s 2. Vacillate knitting duty 3. Youngster 34. Grasshopper’s 4. Ceiling fable colleague 5. Getting on 35. Persisting despite 6. Like some vbs. adversity, with on 7. Highway, for eg.

39. Did the last leg 8. However of a triathlon 9. Beekeepers 40. New Jersey 10. Portuguese hockey squad Mesdames 41. The bane of your 11. Most irritable dog’s existence 12. Scraps 42. Relating to chess 13. Stage setters men perhaps 14. Online journal 44. “Holy smokes!” article 45. Rights of passage, 18. Long depression 21. With deft hands e.g.

24. Bash 46. Chivalrous 25. Greenhorn 47. Fire up 26. Vigilance 48. Western Athletics 27. Free Footballers

28. Michael Essien’s nationality soccer great) 29. Curly-coated dogs 30. Wrinklyskinned dog 31. New Age physician 33. Of cattle 35. Seamstress

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 23.

36. “Well, ___!”

37. Actress Carter and others 38. Marvin of Motown 40. ___-pointe (ballet position) 43. Mushroom 44. Antelope with tufted tail

V

24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

SVG Qualifiers relocated

THE TWO REMAINING HOME MATCHES in Concacaf Nations League Qualifiers scheduled for November 21st and the Concacaf Women’s Road to Gold Cup Qualifiers on December 5th, 2023, have been relocated to Grenada.

According to a release from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), the relocation of the matches comes as a consequence of the unavailability of the main Arnos Vale Playing Field.

A correspondence to the SVGFF, the National Sports Council, under whose jurisdiction the Arnos Vale Playing Field comes, notified that ongoing extensive rehabilitation work at the Playing Field in preparation for hosting games in the 2024 T20 Cricket World Cup, meant that that field will not be available for use

It is likely that the use of the Arnos Vale Playing Field could be minimized for international football matches as per this one between Bermuda and SVG. by the SVGFF on November 21st (male qualifiers) and December 5 (female qualifiers).

After ruling out the use of Victoria Park, a search by the SVGFF for

alternate arrangements has resulted in the matches now being scheduled for Grenada on the original dates.

The SVGFF said that it was “exploring the

possibility of organizing travel for a limited number of supporters to accompany our teams to these matches”.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Schools’ Football Round Up THE INTERMEDIATE HIGH SCHOOL (IHS) and West St. George Secondary School (WSGSS) played to 0-0 draw in the junior division of the Inter Secondary School Football tournament on Wednesday.

The senior encounter though, ended with a 6-0 score line in favour of West St. George, with 2 goals from Zaffi Davis, one each from Kris Ollivierre, Leslie Cadougan and Tyler Lewis, and an own goal from IHS. Central Leeward Secondary School and Troumaca Ontario drew (1-1) their Junior Division match. Jashan Samuel netted for Central Leeward, and Aaden Charles scored for Troumaca.

Mitchran John took charge of the senior division game for his team, the Georgetown Secondary Gladiators, scoring all five of their goals against the North Union Secondary. In the junior match, 3 goals from Cody Lavia and 2 from Juliano Christopher, secured the 5-0 for Georgetown Secondary.

The Sandy Bay Secondary was edged by the Adelphi Secondary 32 in their junior game. Two goals from Juaiz Wilkes and a Sandy Bay own goal gave Adelphi the win. Leslie Pierre Jr. and Felton Alleio scored for Sandy Bay Secondary.

Sandy Bay then enjoyed a 5-2 win against the St. Joseph’s

Goal scorers have been productive in the Inter Secondary Schools Football Tournament.

Convent Marriaqua in the senior division. Jonte Peters had a hat trick, and Jason Peters and Josh Blugh had a goal each. Reno Phillips and Joshua Harry scored for St. Joseph’s Convent.

The Bethel High School Alphas won both games against the Petit Bordel Secondary Giants. Two goals from Xavier Jack and one from Aaron Williams gave Bethel the win. Thiye Laborde and Javid Lampkin scored for Petit Bordel.

A hat trick from Juemar Luke and one from Sudesh Soondar gave Bethel a comfortable 4-0 win in the senior game.

Bequia Community High beat Bequia 7th Day Adventist 7-1, with 2 goals each from Jabari Jackson and Khade Gooding, and 1 each from Teejay Gregg, Jonte Forde and Glenrick Hazell.

Bequia SDA’s consolation goal came from Israel Ollivierre.

Emmanuel High School Mespo swamped the Bishop’s College 9-0 in the senior division, with a hat trick from Kevron Duke, braces from Josh Francis and Lee-Jany Scott and a goal each from Omani Cupid and Tyrique Stephens.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Anderson in line for USL award ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES striker- Oalex Anderson has been included in the list of finalists for the USL League One Player of the Year award.

It has been a good run for Oalex Anderson since joining the North Carolina FC in 2022. In his debut season, the speedy winger registered 11 goals.

Oalex Anderson He then enhanced his status in his second season by leading the club to a second-place finish in the table, and first-round bye in the playoffs.

Anderson finished as the runner-up in the Golden Boot race in his second season with the club, scoring 17 goals and adding six assists, while also winning 109 duels at a 37.5% success rate.

To add to his outstanding season, he was named as the league’s July Player of the Month and was named to the USL League One Team of the Week seven times during the 2023 campaign, earning the Player of the Week distinction in week 16.

Anderson’s goal scoring form has been extended to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines national senior team, for whom he hit a hat trick versus Bermuda on September 12, in the ongoing Concacaf Nations League.

The awards will be announced this Friday, November 10, 2023, one day before Anderson celebrates in 28th birthday.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 25.

Sports

Sailing Coach pleased with first outing ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES debut in Sailing at the XIX Pan American Games, staged in Chile, from October 20 to November 5, 2023, has added many benefits.

This is according to coach Jenny Trumble, who accompanied the lone Vincentian entrantScarlett Hadley to the event.

Sixteen-year-old Hadley was thrown at the deep end of the sport, as she was the first from her country to compete at this level.

Assessing the debut outing, Trumble noted that Hadley made the best of the occasion in may spheres.

“In my forty years of coaching I have rarely seen such improvements in six days …She has grown her network with international sailors, coaches, suppliers, as well as officials as well as Member National Associations’ representatives …Scarlett has transformed from a National Sailor to an International Sailor from her six-day experience at the Pan American Games,” Trumble commented.

Noting that Hadley had to compete against older, seasoned and some Olympians, Trumble opined that she acquitted

herself well.

“The first couple of days were overwhelming, having to adjust to larger swells and cold conditions but by day three, her times went from eight minutes behind to four minutes behind the winner,” Trumble reported.

In all, Hadley ended with six 17th places and three 16th places.

Trumble projected: “She takes this experience into the Youth Worlds which takes place this December in Brazil, where as a sixteen-yearold, she will still be sailing against others who are older in her

Head Coach - Jenny Trumble (left), along with Scarlett Hadley (centre) and Jacintha Ballantyne in conversation ahead of day two activities on October 29. class.”

Meanwhile, Hadley believes that her sojourn has plusses for her and the sport here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Being the first Vincentian to compete in Sailing at the Pan Am Games, I hope that I can inspire others and make Sailing bigger in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Hadley said.

The Sailing component October 28, at the of the Pan American Confradia Nautica del Games took place from Pacifico in Algarrobo.

TT coach Spencer in Germany Romano Spencer is looking forward to his attachment in Germany as a source of benefit for table tennis in SVG. ROMANO SPENCER, one of this country’s leading table tennis coaches, is currently making use of an overseas opportunity to enhance his coaching skills.

He is currently in Germany where

he is involved in an advanced coaching attachment, and he will be there until December 10.

Spencer’s participation in the training programme was made possible through the Olympic Solidarity Scholarship for Coaches’ Initiative.

Before he departed for Germany, Spencer, head coach of the Spencer’s Tennis Academy, told THE VINCENTIAN that he welcomed the opportunity to further his knowledge in coaching.

“It is a chance for me to see how

some different coaching methods are done, even taking part in some of the sessions to increase my learning,” he said.

He left with an open mind admitting, “The cultural difference in terms of training will be very important. …. I expect to see a variety of stuff that I probably never saw before in terms of training methods, I might even see some that compliments what I am doing, but the idea is to learn from that and do better and improve.”

Germany is ranked second among

table tennis playing nations in the world and Spencer needed no convincing that his experience there was going to impact him so that he will have something positive to take away that will benefit table tennis in SVG. “The facility I am going to, trains national athletes from across the world, so it’s a recognized institutions and I can see SVG benefiting from this exposure,” Spencer assured.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Stanley Academy: Smart Toilet Seat Champion SEAN STANLEY Table Tennis Academy (SSTTA) are the champions of the inaugural My Smart Toilet

Seat Invitational Table Tennis Club Championships.

They took the initial kudos and US$5,000 when they

defeated Caribbean Unity Sports in three straight sets in the best of five finals played at the NDP Headquarters last Saturday. Elite Holistic Sports Academy finished third.

SSTTA was represented by Barbadians Trevor Farley and Mark Dowell and Trinidadians and Aleena Edwards and Franklyn Seechan. The Caribbean Unity Sports comprised Barbadians Angela Reid, Mdjai Collymore and Kevin Farley.

Members of runner-up Caribbean Unity Sports with Fitzgerald Bramble, MP East Kingstown (centre).

Curtis Bascombe of My Smart Toilet Seat (3rd from left) hands over the champion’s cheque to Sean Stanley, in the company of the members of the SSTTA team.

In the best of five sets playoffs for the title, in match one, Franklyn Seechan and Trevor Farley of SSTTA defeated Kevin Farley and Angela Reid 3-0, 11-5, 11-7, 12-10 in the mix-doubles.

Match Two saw Mark Dowell

beating Kevin Farley 3-0, 115/11-2/17-15. And in Game Three, Trevor Farley defeated Angela Reid 3-1, 10-12, 11-3, 11-7, 1-6.

I.B.A. ALLEN

V

26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Max and mixed GLEN MAXWELL’s first delivery was a hat trick ball in the ninth over of Australia’s chase of 292 for victory. The score was 49 for 4.

He saw three partners depart at 69, 87 and 91.

He was joined by skipper Pat Cummings in the 19th over with Afghanistan on course for a famous win.

How Maxwell managed the feat only the novelist will justify. Cummings played 68 deliveries for his 12 runs, but shared in the record breaking stand which saw the Aussies to 293 for 7.

Maxwell has to contend with the Mumbai heat. His accomplishment adds to the glory the game is synonymous with. His tale may fade with another mystic.

The battle for this year’s One Day International title continues New Zealand played Sri Lanka yesterday, Thursday. Today Friday 10, Afghanistan play South Affric with an opportunity for either team to heal a wound. The other will feel like salt in the trauma.

South Africa slumped to 83 all out off 27.1 overs against a rampaging Indian team.

Bangladesh beat Sri Lanka by three wickets in the time encompassing showpiece. Bangladesh reached 282 for 7 off 41. 1 overs replying to 279.

The talk of the tournament is the Maxwell episode. That goes into the history books. Other aspects have their patriotic or contemporary impact, but nothing compares.

The Aussies are in action against Bangladesh.

England found their groove in the Netherlands match, avoiding cynicism, from quarters thirsty for details of a dysfunctional former champion.

England will be hoping not just to spoil the Pakistan party, but to keep their Champion Trophy prospects alive.

The last round game feature India and Netherlands. Given the trend, fans will expect nothing short of another clinical India dominance.

That lays the foundation for semifinal encounters ahead of the November 19 final.

Meanwhile the CG Insurance Super 50 heads for the final this Sunday.

Trinidad and Tobago outplayed Guyana in the first clash to secure a final berth. They await the winner of the Leeward Islands Hurricane and Barbados Pride.

This tournament is likely to shape the outlook of teams against England in their pre-Christmas tour.

For fans, the games taking place in the Middle East are causing heart break. When the bombing is over, there might have been an erasure of a generation. The carnage unfolded on television watched by many.

That is a matter that seems of little interest to some oblivious of the suffering endured by a people for over 100 years.

Some international sport organisers were keen on football in Israel recently. The Vineyard asked those concerned to withdraw participation whether or not they qualified.

The authorities would have been free to ask the squad not to take part.

That is conjecture. Current situation alters events. The Caribbean has to keep abreast, and hope that an impending fuel increase will not worsen inflation.

Fast 5 Netball on the go THE THIRD edition of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA) Fast 5 Competition is into its first week.

The competition got going last Sunday, November 5, at the Kingstown Netball Centre with an Opening Ceremony, inclusive of a March Past as well as two matches.

SVG General Services Maple took the two top prizes up for grabs during the Opening Ceremony Best Dressed and Best Banner.

When the competition began in earnest, Total Ten Netters beat Carlos James Wafulasun North Leeward Stars Two: 26-6 in a Division Two fixture.

National Properties Netters had a 34-15 win over Carlos James Wafulasun North Leeward Stars One in Division One Six teams are in Division Two: Carlos James Wafulasun North Leeward Stars Two, Total Ten Netters, Sion Hill Netball Club, X-Ceed Sports Club 3, BSS Warriors and SVG General Services Maple.

Making up Division One are Carlos James Wafulasun North Leeward Stars One, National Properties Netters, X- Ceed Sports Club One, XCeed Sports Club Two, A Male Division features Macca Crushers, Vikings, AM Shotters and Jaguars.

Matches are set for Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and the round-robin

Best Dressed and Best Banner winners- SVG General Services Maple. competition concludes, Friday, November 24.

X- Ceed Sports Club won both titles when the last competition was held in May/June of 2022.

Fast 5 Netball, a shortened version, involves five players: Goal Attack, Goal Shooter, Goal Defence, Goal Keeper and Centre.

Matches are of 24 minutes duration, with six minutes allocated to each quarter. Additionally, there are rolling substitutions and the Goal Shoot and Goal Attack can score within the circle for two points and outside the circle for three points.

Fast 5 Netball has power plays, whereby teams predetermine their power play quarter, in which points scored are doubled.

Two athletes positioning for Paris TWO OF St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ top athletes have positioned themselves for places at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, set for France’s capital, July 26 to August 11.

Handal Roban and Shaffiqua Maloney, both 800m specialists, are on the Shaffiqua Maloney provisional

list, based on their accumulation of ranking points.

Presently, Roban has racked up 1176 points and Maloney 1116.

In accordance with World Athletics recommendations, the official qualification window closes June 30, 2024.

Hence, the two have until such time to further enhance their positions, ranking points, towards gaining qualification.

The process of qualification to the Paris Olympic Games follows the same vein as that of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, as well as the

two most recent World Championships held in Eugene, Oregon, USA and Budapest, Hungary.

As such, fifty percent of Handal Roban the athletes will qualify on the basis of entry standards, with the other fifty percent doing so on World Athletics world rankings.

All Pro, Munro Independence Master Champs MUNROE ROAD and All Pro emerged cricket champions of the Fete and Festival Divisions respectively, when the 2023 edition of the International Independence T20 Masters Tournament concluded on the weekend at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

Munroe Road beat Canada Masters by 24 runs in a reduced game of 10 overs to claim their

title. Scores: Munroe Road 80 for 4 from 10 overs, Ramesh Singh 36, Keith Gopie 35.

Munro Road - Fete Division champions.

Canada Masters 56 for 5 in 10 overs. winner in the Festival Division, In the festival division, All Pro took the title trophy and beat RSVG Police by 71 runs to US$500.00. secure their title. Scores: All Pro Owen Birch of Barbados 144 for 9 from 20 Masters with 196 inclusive of two overs, Deems Baird fifties and Lutchman Rampersad 36. RSVG Police 73 of Munroe Road with 9 wickets from 13 overs, were the leading batter and Salvan Browne 36. bowler respectively in the Fete Depak Kuma 6 for Division.

18.

Salvan Browne of RSVG Police Fete Division with 282 runs with one century champion Munroe and two fifties, and Deepak Road walked away Kumar of All Pro were the top with the champion’s batsman and bowler in the trophy and Festival Division.

US$2,000.00. All Pro, first-time All Pro - Festival Division champions.

I.B.A. ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023. 27.

Classifieds

AI REAL ESTATE Ratho Mill 10,186 sq.ft @ $35.00 p.sf.

- $355,510.00 - BB394 Twenty Hill 7,720 sq.ft @ $15.00 p.s.f.

- $115,800.00- BB676 Victoria Village 21,791 sq.ft @ $11.50 p.s.f.

- $250,596.50 - H402 Cedars 4 bedrm Property on 7,955 sq.ft.

- $325,000.00 - H130 (784)- 457-2087/(718)-807-4376 office (784)-493-9431/(784)-533-0431 whatsappcell donp@vincysurf.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023

VOLUME 117, No.45

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

2022 HOMICIDE RECORD SHATTERED Maurice Primus was shot dead on the public road in Fairhall.

girlfriend and their 11-year old son.

According to a police report, a party As of Wednesday 8th November, 2023, of police officers headed by Inspector this country had recorded 47 homicides, Ashlyn Samuel-Bristol arrived at the five more than the previous record of 42 scene at around 10:20 pm, after an in 2022. anonymous call was made to the Among the 47 count was 31-year-old Calliaqua Police Station.

Maurice Primus, aka ‘6 Beer’, who was On arrival at the scene, Primus was gunned down sometime around 10:15 found lying motionless on his back p.m. on Friday, 3rd November, in with what appeared to be bullet Fairhall, while heading home to his wounds about his body.

Residents in the Story: KENVILLE HORNE

Tambu Patrick’s death further heightened criminal activity in Layou, it was reported.

community reported hearing the sound of four gunshots before a brief pause, then multiple shots.

Besides the gunshot wounds to his body, the victim’s face showed signs of bruises which might indicate that he had a physical confrontation with his attacker/attackers.

“He also had mud pon his body,” one resident who saw the deceased body, told THE VINCENTIAN. Primus is originally from Sion Hill but was residing at Fair Hall with his family. His girlfriend, Everlonne Stowe, in an interview with THE VINCENTIAN newspaper said that she and Primus shared the last 17 years of their lives together. She recalled that he texted her less than 10 minutes before he was killed, to inform her that he was on his way home.

“Five minutes after I heard 4 shots, then multiple shots and I ran out the house same time, down in the road and saw him laying on ground in all blood,” Stowe recalled and called for her boyfriend killer (s) to be brought to justice.

Primus attended the St. Clair Deacon Secondary School, he was described as an all-rounder who did gardening, painting, manual labour and was said to be a good driver.

Zachari McIntosh is said to have He was among three succumbed to a stab wound homicides recorded last inflicted upon him by a relative.

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

weekend.

Zachari McIntosh, a 31-year-old labourer of Calliaqua died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) on Friday, after being wounded during an altercation on Tuesday, October 31.

On November 6, 2023, police arrested and charged Azarie McIntosh, a 21-year-old labourer from Calliaqua, with causing the death of Zacharie (ZACK) McIntosh, his relative from the same address. McIntosh was arraigned at the Serious Offence Court on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, and was remanded into custody at His Majesty’s Prison.

On Sunday, November 5, sometime before 9 p.m., Tambu Patrick, a resident of Layou, was ambushed and killed in his hometown. Reports are that Patrick tried to find protection in a nearby home in Ruthland Vale but was killed before he could make it.

Patrick, who escaped being shot in 2018 and who later served a four-anda-half-year sentence for possession of one Taurus 9 mm pistol and 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, was the second person to be gunned down in Layou in less than a month.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.