Editor’s Note: The following is a statement by Ellis L Webster, MD, Premier, Minister of Finance & Health of Anguilla.
“THE CATASTROPHIC DAMAGE to Carriacou, Petite Martinique, Union Island and others reminds us of Anguilla’s plight following Hurricane Irma in 2017 and confirms that global warming and our position as Small Island Developing States in the Caribbean make us interconnected, interrelated, and mutually vulnerable.
In Anguilla’s time of distress and need, the region stood in solidarity and came to our aid. It is now our turn to help our brothers and sisters in the Windward Islands.
To this end, Executive Council has approved a financial contribution of EC$500,000 to be divided equally between Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines for hurricane relief and recovery
efforts. As we progress through the remaining months of the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, we pray for
EU approves 450k
THE EUROPEAN UNIONhas sanctioned $450,000 in humanitarian aid to address the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in St Vincent and Grenada. This financial support aims to assist the most vulnerable individuals impacted by the hurricane, providing them with cash aid, water, sanitation, hygiene supplies, food, and other essential items.
To bolster the emergency response, the EU activated its Copernicus satellite service in rapid mapping mode on July 2. So far, five maps have been generated to aid in the relief efforts.
“Hurricane Beryl has lashed the Caribbean with unprecedented force at this time of the year, causing widespread
BVI
suffering and damage in several islands. The initial funding just approved will bring much-needed relief to people that have seen their lives upended by this disaster, both in Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. As the hurricane moves further, the EU keeps closely monitoring its trajectory and stands ready to help other populations that might be affected in the next hours. All our response instruments, humanitarian aid and civil protection, will be mobilised if necessary,” stated Janez Lenari, Commissioner for Crisis Management.
God’s grace and mercy over the region and ask all to remain vigilant and prepared for the eventualities that the season brings.”
This new funding is in addition to the more than 2 million already allocated this year for humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness in the Caribbean region.
Reports from humanitarian partners indicate that over 1,000 people were evacuated in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, while another 2,500 were evacuated in Grenada.
getting ready to support
THE BRYAN-ROACH ADMINISTRATIONmade known on Tuesday that it has asked the V.I. Legislature for $200,000 to support the recovery of Grenada, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which were recently impacted by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach addressed the USVI community during a briefing from Government House on St. Croix, where he announced the relief effort being spearheaded by the Government of the Virgin Islands in cooperation with the Department of Tourism.
The Hurricane Beryl Relief Effort seeks to aid those most affected by the hurricane, which left a trail of destruction in Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and other island communities in the Eastern Caribbean.
“Today I stand before you with a profound sense of duty and compassion as we address the urgent needs of our Caribbean neighbors who have been gravely affected by Hurricane Beryl,” Mr. Roach said.
Hurricane Beryl has caused immense hardship for countless families, Mr. Roach further stated. “Homes have been destroyed, communities have been uprooted, and lives have been changed irrevocably,” he said.
United States provides $2M
IN RESPONSE TO THE DEVASTATING IMPACT of Hurricane Beryl on the Caribbean nations of Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing $2 million USD in immediate humanitarian assistance to support relief efforts in the two nations.
The U.S. government’s pledge of $1 million USD to Grenada and $1 million USD to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will provide critical assistance to those most affected by the disaster and will support emergency response efforts, including the provision of logistics, clean water, shelter, and cash support.
United States Ambassador Roger Nyhus underscored the United States’ unwavering commitment to stand in solidarity with the people of Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: “We stand strong with the governments and people of Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines during this challenging time. While I have seen firsthand the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in several Eastern Caribbean nations, I have also seen the resilient and unbroken spirit of the people of this great region. Through this meaningful and timely aid, the United States is demonstrating our deep and steadfast commitment to our Caribbean friends, neighbors and partners through tangible financial support to advance their recovery efforts.”
The assistance reflects America’s enduring friendship with Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and our shared commitment to helping communities rebuild and recover in the wake of natural disasters.
Fitzroy Douglas and Patterson are jointly charged with stealing well over $400,000.00 from the BOSVG is jointly charged with Patterson.
Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS
THE DEFENSEhas made an application for a stay of proceedings in the matter involving the embezzlement of thousands of dollars from the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG), four years ago.
The matter which has been before the Court since July 2020 involves Yvonne Patterson, a former employee at the BOSVG, and Fitzroy Jr. Izaras Marcus Douglas of Murrays Village. They have been jointly charged with the theft of $389,155.95 from the BOSVG during transactions
Stay requested in bank Ârip offÊ case
on June 1, 2020, and July 24, 2020. They are also jointly charged with stealing $53,155 from the BOSVG on June 18, 2020.
The charges
Patterson has been charged separately with entering or becoming concerned in an arrangement that she “knows or suspects facilitates the acquisition, activity, use, or control of criminal property by or on behalf of another person to wit: the sums of $389,155.95 deposited into the BOSVG, account number 148014, in Douglas’ name, which she (Patterson) knew or suspects is the proceeds of criminal conduct”.
Patterson is further charged, solely, on two counts of dishonestly falsifying the records of Douglas’ account, in the same sums, with a view to causing loss to the BOSVG. She is also charged, solely, with disguising criminal property, to wit, $389,155.95 deposited into the BOSVG, account number 148014, in Douglas’ name which she knew or suspects represents the proceeds of criminal conduct.
Douglas is charged separately with possession of criminal conduct, to wit: “a Toyota car registration number PS996 which he knew or suspects represents the proceeds of criminal conduct,
and stealing $335,584 from the bank on July 23, 2020”.
Patterson was at the time a 46-year-old clerk at the bank, while Douglas was 37.
The trial had been ongoing before Magistrate Bertie Pompey at the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court for quite a while but was transferred to the Serious Offense Court, when Pompey retired before the conclusion of the matter.
Attorney Grant Connell is representing Patterson while Douglas is represented by Michael Wyllie.
Application for a stay
When the matter was called at the Serious Offenses Court on Thursday, July 4, Senior Magistrate Colin John indicated that there would have to be a fresh trial as Pompey retired before the completion of the trial. However, Connell made an application for a stay of Proceedings, stating that most of the reasons for the delay emanated from the Prosecution’s side. He described the situation as an abuse of process, which flies in the face of justice.
Noting that the matter has been before the Court for four years, Connell added, “These matters are supposed to be completed in six or nine months.
“Some of their witnesses are not even in the country”.
The lawyer added that his client had been coming to Court all the time.
“We are submitting that it is clearly an abuse of process to start over after four years and 13 adjournments. We are asking for a stay of these proceedings”, he argued.
Prosecution’ response
In response to Connell’s, Prosecutor Renrick Cato said, “I think that what counsel failed to tell the Court is that the last time this matter was before the Court, the investigator was on the stand. How could that fall on the prosecution?”
According to Cato, “You cannot be asking for 20 out of 30 adjournments for three years, and turn around and blame the prosecution. It cannot be the prosecution. I do not know of witnesses out of the country”.
He pointed out that even if any of the witnesses were not in the country, this is an age of modern technology, making it possible for those witnesses to give evidence from where they are.
“This is a trial that can last two days. The matter was almost completed, but the Magistrate left, and the matter was transferred to this Court”, the Prosecutor said.
Connell, however, recalled, “We (defense) requested a voir dire, and they (Prosecution)
caused the delay, giving one set of gimme gimme ram goat story”.
He continued, “This is wrong. A matter in the Magistrate’s Court should not take so long”, adding that the situation has caused stress to his client. He noted that she could not travel because of the pending matter, and pointed to the difficulty she had walking, as she made her way to the dock with a limp.
“What he (Cato) is saying is that Grant Connell and Michael Wyllie held up a Magistrate’s Court for four years”, Connell contended. Wyllie had made a similar application on the matter, but Pompey apparently did not receive it because he had retired.
After listening to both sides, Magistrate John ordered that Connell and Wyllie file written submissions on behalf of their clients. Both accused are out on bail.
New twist in teenÊs murder P.I
THE PROSECUTIONhas
been granted its request for a key witness to testify under the Witness (Special Measures) Act 2013 in the murder Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) of Golden Vale resident Cole Oliver.
Senior Magistrate Colin John granted the application on Wednesday despite strong objections from Oliver’s attorney Grant Connell.
The application was granted under the Act, Number 37, 2013.
The witness will give evidence by live link permissible under Section 16 of the Act, Number 37 of 2013. Evidence in private, as per Section 17 of the Act, Number 37 of 2013, allows for the courtroom to be cleared during the witness’s testimony, and is further advised under Section 4 of the Criminal Procedure Code, Chapter 171 of the laws of SVG, 2009.
The application for special measures was made by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), and an affidavit was made by the investigator, Corporal Henry Hoyte.
Connell had objected to the application on the basis that the affidavit has to come from the witness and not a third party.
“You can’t do an affidavit on hearsay”, he argued and referenced a High Court matter to support his argument.
However, Prosecutor Renrick Cato said that in the matter to which Connell referred, the Judge said the affidavit should not come from a third person but did not say that it cannot be done, which is a fundamental difference.
Cato used the example of a situation where an 11-yearold child may have been the witness.
The Prosecutor said that nowhere in the Witness (Special Measures) Act states that the affidavit must come from the witness. He said Connell referenced the Act but did not point out where that was stated.
After listening to both sides, the Senior Magistrate ruled that the “application made by the DPP will be granted”.
Oliver has been charged with the murder of Golden Vale resident Kemon Orlando Roberts, 28, who was reportedly shot several times in the head shortly after 8 a.m. on July 20, 2023. Oliver was 18 at the time.
The matter which has been before the Serious Offenses Court since July 2023, was adjourned on several occasions.
The witness for whom Special Measures was granted is the main plank of the Prosecution’s case.
The Witness (Special Measures) Act provides for the giving of evidence by live link, video recorded evidence, the taking of evidence from outside St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and prohibiting the defendant in certain cases from personally crossexamining a particular witness.
Yvonne Patterson, was a former employee of the institution from which she is alleged to have stolen.
Cole Oliver has had a roller coaster run so far before the court here.
Vincymas V
Divine intervention: ‘Skye’s’ prayer answered
SHE BURST on the scene last year at the Primary Schools Performing Arts Festival when her rendition was awarded ‘Most Senior Song’. That established Divyne ‘Skye’ Hackshaw, a student of the Argyle Roman Catholic School, as one to watch in the Performing Arts here.
She placed second in the Primary Schools’ category of the Junior Calypso Monarch competition last year as well, with: ‘Protect our children’.
‘Skye’ accomplished what many said was the inevitable when she was crowned the Primary School Junior Calypso Monarch in a show that
Amelia Jones did her schools proud when she earned a second place in the competition.
was postponed from Tuesday, July 2 at Victoria Park, to the Russell’s Auditorium on Saturday, July 6. Her song was appropriately titled ‘Answer my Prayer’.
‘Skye’s’ ability and potential were recognized even at this early stage in her life and career, when she was selected to the semifinal of the National Calypso Monarch Competition.
She was followed, in the Competition, by Amelia Jones from Windsor Primary School whose number ‘Praedial larceny’ highlighted farmers’ plight.
Third place was taken by Divine Walters, the
Divine Walters didn’t retain her title but did not disgrace herself. She claimed the third place.
Divyne ‘Skye’ Hackshaw, Junior Calypso Monarch, Primary Schools, showed the class that earned her a place in this year’s national calypso Monarch semifinals.
2023 Junior Primary School monarch, who sang ‘Life Must Go On’.
AJ:
Other participants were: Lylanie ‘Singing Lily’ Bascombe of the Greiggs Primary School who sang ‘Gun culture’; Shellisa Henderson, Richland Park Government School with ‘Fight for me’; Shemonique Roberts, Tourama Government School, who beckoned people to ‘Get on board’; Amena Lucas, Dorsetshire Hill Government School, who sang ‘Down with Crime’; and Hailey Small, South Rivers Methodist, with ‘You have to plan’.
Omani: Doing it twice
OMANI CUPIDmissed out on a place in this year’s National Calypso Monarch final, a feat he accomplished in 2023. However, he retained the Junior Secondary School Monarch title with a thought-raising song entitled, ‘Are we raising Kings?’.
Omani has sound calypso pedigree, his father being Gosnel ‘GC’ Cupid, a perennial finalist in the National Calypso Monarcgh Competition, and sister Shaunelle Mckezie a former calypso Monarch and one of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ leading soca artiste.
The rivalry begun last year between Omani and Kristian ‘Lil Kris” Christopher of the St. Vincent Grammar School, was no less intense than this year as it was last year.
Omani Cupid –retained his Junior Calypso Secondary Schools title.
The result was the same though, with Omani ensuring ‘Lil Kris’, whose tenure had begun as a successful Primary School contender, got no further than second place with his ‘Join the fight against crime’.
Kerieka ‘Kerie’ McCaul from St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua took third place with her rendition of ‘Blame all ah we’.
Kerie sharpened her stagecraft with performances in the On Tour Calypso Tent.
Completed the list of those whose contested for this year’s tile were:
D’Shanti Francis, representing Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School with a song called ‘Depression,’ and school mate Shania Walters, with her number ‘Youth’s mental Health’; Omar Guy, Sandy Bay Secondary who did: ‘Yours respectfully’ and his mate Philisia McCoy ‘Family days are done’: as well as Shenea Stephens, Girls High School, with her song ‘Think outside the box’. (Stories by WKA)
Kristian ‘Lil Kris” Christopher had to settle for another second place.
Kerieka ‘Kerie’ McCaul earned a deserving third place.
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
Egg in we face!!
THE MANNER in which a certain preference was relayed did not reduce the extent of the embarrassment of the message therein.
The Barbadians, apparently, were the first to react (response seems to be a ‘nice’ word in the circumstances) to a notification emanating from official sources, that this country would prefer that relief assistance, post the passage of Hurricane Beryl, be in the form of cash rather than in kind.
What follows here is predicated on an article accredited to Maria Bradshaw, and carried in the July 07, 2024 issue of The Nation newspaper, Barbados.
According to Bradshaw, Anthony Ali, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Goddard Enterprises Ltd., in addressing the matter, said, “What happened was that the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) in St Vincent yesterday in their meetings said they would stop taking donations and would only accept cash donations….”
To say that this (request?) smells of rotting cabbage is to accentuate the extent to which it was repulsive.
To even think that a people in a situation of untold physical loss and psychological displacement could ‘dictate’ what form of assistance that was so critically needed should take, is nothing short of ‘indecency’.
Mind you, at a given point in time, the warehouses here are likely to get to a point of overflowing; to a situation of perhaps having too much of certain items and not enough of others.
Whatever the case, it is downright impolite to refuse in-kind assistance not only as it relates to the long term needs but worse if it relates to materials, equipment - for rebuilding of the housing stock.
Maybe it is that those people responsible for the relief progrmme, having learned from their experience of the recent volcanic eruption, and how they were challenged in rolling out strategies to ensure that the inkind aid reached those in need and in time, thought it best that in trying to avoid a repeat of what were clearly inefficiencies, that they would resort to a simpler and easier means, monetary donations, of receiving and coordinating assistance.
But there is always going to be a second thought by donors and potential donors about the remittance of monetary donations. The truth is many organisations
and individuals are wary of making monetary donations to government and government-related agencies/corporations.
As far as our relationship with Barbados is concerned, we understand that this issue has been resolved with timely intervention by Anthony Ali, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Goddard Enterprises Ltd., which has substantial investments in this country.
This came only after, it was reported, Ali was moved in the circumstances, to say to his Vincentian connections, “Look, people want to help, they have already started sending goods, they are sitting in our warehouse, I can’t return it. So we have to deliver it’. Secondly, a large number of people called and said that if we donate money, would the money go to the needy or would it get consumed in a whole bunch of government agencies and everything else,” as quoted by the article as referenced.
He told the media that he eventually sent an email to the team — “o members of the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) which is working with NEMO — and after consultation with NEMO, they have agreed to continue to accept goods.”
Ali explained, Goddards has been working with local agencies “to provide them warehousing for noncritical items which they can store for a couple of weeks and start delivering, but we are dealing with the emergency stuff right now.”
Thanks God goodwill will prevail and the Barbadians will continue to contribute goods to the ravaged multi-island state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Pity, though, that we had to subject ourselves to having a ‘good natured Caribbean citizen’ expose us to a situation that could well have blown up to greater proportions and ramifications than it eventually did. But whatever the outcome in the long run and how it affects relationships with other fellow Caribbean countries and individuals far and wide, we have ‘egg in out face’, and while we will want to think that we have washed it away, the smell has a way of lingering.
What does all of this tell us about how much we learned from the very recent past of having to deal with emergency situations?
We erred before and we have erred again.
Rebuilding after the storm
I KNOW THIS IS HARD, and you might even feel discouraged, but we must move on, pick up the pieces, and begin rebuilding stronger and better.
It will not be easy, and it might not be the last time you have to do this, as the experts tell us that storms like this one will become more frequent. Mother Nature has a mind of her own, and humankind, through our recklessness, is making these extreme weather events a regular occurrence.
Before discussing rebuilding your house and other physical infrastructure, we must acknowledge the emotional damage done by the storm. Take some time to address your physiological needs; don’t allow the stress to get the best of you, for if left unchecked, this could lead to physical illness. By strengthening your mental state of mind, we will stay positive, avoid emotions from taking over, and focus on making the best decisions moving forward. A positive outlook will help us make the best renovation decisions for your home. Instead of dwelling on the past, try to gain perspective as you begin the task of rebuilding your life.
This can be a lot to take in, mainly because there is still a long road ahead. Before making any repairs to your home, document the conditions by taking pictures and creating a list of items lost. This will help if you have insurance or the government offers rebuilding assistance.
Before you begin any haphazard repairs, develop a plan. Avoid the temptation to do it yourself. This could cause more issues in the future and cause more problems in the long term. Instead, trust a professional to assist you through the process. They will provide professional advice and work with your insurance company, if applicable, to make the process smoother for you.
I know this will feel like a waste of time, but I recommend first focusing on the higher-use rooms, such as the kitchen and bathroom. This will give you a functional house as soon as possible. The bedrooms, living room, and dining room can be restored later, as your sleeping arrangements are more flexible than cooking and using the restroom. When you actually begin the process of cleaning up and rebuilding, do it to the highest building standards you can afford. Ensure the roof structures are adequately attached to the house, and the foundation is grounded correctly.
In 2007, Ms. Adriana King prepared a booklet, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Building Regulations,” for the government, which was available to those interested in building. Maybe it should be updated, if necessary, and reissued for those confronting this arduous task.
It is also an excellent opportunity for the government and public utilities to consider undergrounding those lines where possible. This will not stop outages but will significantly speed up the recovery time.
Additionally, it would be helpful if the joint use agreement for the utility poles be updated to allow VINLEC to take complete control of repairs in the event of natural disasters. VINLEC will coordinate all repairs, including those related to auxiliary users. If necessary, those lines will be removed, at the expense of other uses, in order to restore electricity to customers. Also, when poles are replaced during regular times, phone companies should have a limited amount of time to remove their lines from the old poles or be subject to a fine. I understand that some electric customers went without power for up to two additional days because of issues related to a lack of coordination of lines and pole repairs. We must do better.
Now, on to the moral indignation of the day. The officials seem to have angered many people at home and abroad by allowing the carnival to proceed. While some people on social media use cryptic messages to express disgust, I will not. The carnival celebrations should have been cancelled. It isn’t easy to justify a week of revelry while asking those in the diaspora to send home hard-earned cash and supplies. To be clear, I do not think this is a choice between God and Man. God did not send a hurricane Beryl, nor will he send another one just because some people choose to celebrate carnival.
Cancelling the carnival was just the right thing to do, as we have thousands of fellow Vincentians homeless and suffering a great deal of uncertainty. I want to congratulate Luke Boyea for canceling his shows.
Horatio.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
One Nation, One People
IT IS FOOLISHfor a leader to tell a nation that agriculture is a thing of the past. One who is of that mind might say such a leader is talking from the anal of his body parts. Now that we have experienced the devastation that Beryl wrought on Union Island and other parts of the Caribbean, we must ask ourselves: Should tourism take precedent over agriculture? Should we believe and adhere to everything that our leaders tell us? Should we believe in smooth sounding rhetoric?
Rhetoric that has no merits?
Vulnerability
In this miniscule country of ours, some of us act as if we control time and season, and think we are the maker, ruler and Lord of the universe. Yet, all it takes is just a shower of rain and the pounding element of nature to wash us away. Some of us have become so rootless, arrogant, self-centred and uppity, we have no empathy for or emotional feelings to
One for the CDC
This verse and chorus is for the CDC
All yo treating calypso jokey. Man it look like calypso just come the other day Long time we asking for a raise ah pay, Not just today but yesterday But in all yo mind, calypso could blow away. Then the soca man take a stand
All yo get serious and start to plan
Because that is the biggest show in the Park, So they come up with a solution And decide to fix everyone, But calypsonians remain in the dark.
Chorus
The Daughter of Soca getting sixty grand Mother Calypso getting half, The grandchild Ragga, is thirty thousand Put that to anyone, they will laugh. Panman forty grand, masman as plan But everyone laughing at we, (So) Results night when you read 4,3,2,1 Don’t just give us the prize only. Yo say forty grand, take back ten thousand Why? We want we contract money.
Glenford ‘Azarah’ Charles Kingstown St. Vincent and the Grenadines
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* If the Louisiana floods a few years ago, recent flood in the Middle East, the earthquakes in Haiti and elsewhere and the many hurricanes of recent memory, are disasters or occurrence created by man (scientists) intervention in nature, to support their ‘Global Warming’ agenda?
* What is really the current status of the national population census? Anybody remembers what happened to the last one?
* What action is going to be taken against those citizens who looted a stranded yacht at Great Head beach?
* Were the Customs and Exercise Department consulted before the (import) concessions offered in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl were announced?
* What measures are in place to ensure that relief supplies are distributed fairly and without prejudice across the state?
* For the sake of everyone, including the Police, what is the difference between a National Emergency and a State of Emergency?
* Who gave the ‘OK’ for the Finance and Planning Ministry to set up a bank account to receive money for disaster relief? Is this the first time such was done?
humanity. It’s a case of failing to realize that we are living on borrowed time, that we are dust in the wind.
Food security
Food security is a must; it is like collective security. It was the iconic calypsonian Chalkdust who said profoundly, “all we have is sea water and sand.”
As a so-called independent country, we are still pretty much dependent on the imperialist countries to feed and clothe us. What took place in Union Island is a clear reflection of Chalkdust’s declaration. I tell you this, if there is a shortage of food universally, we will starve to death. Now that Beryl has left so
many islands in disarray, the people of those ravaged islands are desperately in need of food and shelter.
Now that everything is in shambles, and there are no guests houses and hotels to accommodate the ‘stray’, wandering tourists from North America and Europe, the people are staring at ‘sea water and sand’. In this critical moment, a nation that used to feed itself has to depend on countries that make agriculture a top priority.
I said it before without any apology and I’ll say it again, our leaders are a disgrace.
Greenhouse gases
Our leaders often talk about reducing greenhouse gases yet we see the same hypocritical
Concacaf qualifiers 2026
FIFA/CONCACAF
kicked off their 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Fixtures on the 5th of June 2024 — a fixture which gives thirty countries ample time to be properly prepared, and allowing countries to play two games in June 2024.
Countries can assess, correct, adjust, adapt, make changes, and seek the necessary assistance to produce the best-ever team. FIFA will let them play in the Nation League in September 2024 so there is an opportunity to evaluate their performance before finally playing in the World Cup Qualifiers in 2025, for the World Cup Competition in 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity for countries to improve their skills and technique so that they are able to compete against the teams from the other five confederations in the World Cup finals.
Vincentians, soccer lovers, and fans, are you satisfied with team SVG’s performance? Team SVG began their
leaders continuing to encourage the construction of humongous concrete structures in Kingstown, as if they want to turn this natural, picturesque Island into a concrete jungle to resemble New York City, Paris and Rome.
These concrete structures only help to ‘heat up the island’, making it unbearable for the aged and newborn babes. What we need is a good road infrastructure, and yes, a state-of-theart hospital, but moreso we need a sustainable agriculture system that can ensure food security for all the people of this land.
Carden A. Michael
Need for more Police Stations
THE AUTHORITIES should seek funding to construct at least five new police stations in areas where there is none.
Many, if not all the police districts are too large.
I suggest, to ease the load off the Colonaire police station, that one be built in the Park Hill/South Rivers area.
In the Greiggs/New Grounds area, a station there will surely take some weight of the Biabou police.
preparation in 2023. The result indicated that the players were only going to the practice sessions and failed to implement their coach’s plan. They lost 4-1 and 3-1.
There are many reasons why they lost and they (coaches and players) know why they lost. They know what should be done so do it, and let the executive and the technical director, who is also the coach, stop ‘making up’ lame excuses for the team’s poor performance.
The President was vice president for the past eight years. Players should let him know their thoughts on the situation and see to it that he listens and understands so, hopefully, there would be a better performance come September.
Our players are not versatile, they are blessed with the ability to run, jump, turn, hit, and kick a ball. They need to be guided/coached so that they understand their capabilities and weaknesses. This will
help them to fulfil responsibility to their team mates.
Players need to know how, when and where to support and position themselves in possession, especially in transition, and to feed their scorers.
These basic aspects are acquired in practise sessions. Tactical plans can only be carried out effectively and efficiently if practice becomes a permanent habit.
Players cannot be blamed; they play what
A station in Carriere/ Cane End/Collins should give ease to the Mespo station.
One in Fountain/ Belair will ease the strain off the one in Calliaqua, which is one off the most active stations in SVG.
On the Leeward, one located between Grand Gate and Lowmans/ Buddy Gutter, will ease the load off the one at Questelles.
These are just suggestions. The authorities are better placed to accurately select the area.
Concern Citizen
they are coached. Maybe the whole body of coaches needs to be reviewed?
By the way, Ezra Hendrickson is marked to take over as coach of the SVGFF Team for the rest of the World Cup games and National League games.
Seymour ‘Rollit’ Walrond
Views
V Relief is rolling out, process of recovery begins
materials.
THE ISSUE: RELIEF, RECOVERY, RECONSTRUCTION
HURRICANE BERYL’S
DEVASTATION OFthe Southern Grenadines and its destruction elsewhere in SVG on July 1, 2024, have occasioned the immediate rolling out of relief for affected persons and the early beginnings of the process of recovery and reconstruction. Over the current phase of our country’s life, living and production, the focus is on the THREE Rs: Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction, in tandem with our ongoing programme of sustainable development in every material particular.
The quest is to turn the terrible setbacks caused by Beryl into a sustained advance in the interest of our people’s humanization. So, let us map, summarily, what has been done in the first days, so far, what is now being done, and what is planned to be done by our government in full communion with our people, in exemplary solidarity, supported by the efforts of our diaspora and our friends (governments and organisations) overseas.
IMMEDIATE RELIEF
Immediately upon the predicted arrival of Beryl, the National Emergency Management Council of NEMO met, under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister. Right away, too, the hurricane shelters were activated; within hours, nearly two thousand persons were in 75 shelters across SVG, and ongoing relief of food, water, and other items of emergency support, delivered. It is estimated that more than twice that number found refuge temporarily in homes of friends and families. The communication challenges (air and sea transport, telecommunications) between St. Vincent and the Southern Grenadines (Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, Petit St. Vincent, and Palm Island) and the scale of the devastation on those southern islands, delayed the flow of relief supplies for 24 hours to the people thereon. They had to rely on the resources (material and organisational) which were resident among them.
By Wednesday morning (July 3rd), within 48 hours of the passage of destruction Beryl, the Fast Ferry, Jaden Sun, with a capacity for 200 passengers was contracted by the government to evacuate persons desirous of leaving the Southern Grenadines for St. Vincent, and to enhance communication linkages. The Fast Ferry covers the 40-mile distance between St. Vincent and Union Island in 90
minutes. Other ferries – Gem Star and Bequia Express –were also mobilized to transport cargo and persons. These services are paid for by the government. Gem Star was also contracted by the World Food Programme of the United Nations to transport supplies from Barbados to SVG. By Saturday morning (July 6th), it was estimated that over 1,000 persons had been evacuated from Union Island. Most were housed by friends and families on St. Vincent, but others were accommodated at five hurricanes shelters.
By the evening of Sunday (July 7th), the number of persons in shelters had dwindled to some 1,300, and the number of shelters reduced to 42. Many persons returned to their homes on St. Vincent and Bequia. Indeed, by then, too, many of our compatriots from the Southern Grenadines moved from shelters on St. Vincent to private homes of friends and families. Unfortunately, the government was unable to secure rooms in guest houses or apartments; they were all booked for the Carnival season.
Importantly, organizational structures involving NEMO, the Police, the private sector, and activist individuals were functioning on the islands of Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island – in the latter case, there was a shocked hiatus for about 36 hours or so. At the centre on SVG, NEMO was, and is, fully operational; indeed, the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was promptly established, as required under the NEMO Act, 72 hours before the arrival of Beryl.
Importantly, too, security was strengthened throughout SVG; especially so in the islands of the Southern Grenadines. Emergency support arrived from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), the Regional Security System (RSS), and other regional entities. All leave was cancelled for police officers. They had to manage the normal situation of law and order, the elevated/high alert patrols for particular criminal activities, the Carnival, and the requisites of security and disaster management consequent upon Beryl.
CABINET DECISIONS ON WEDNESDAY JULY 3RD
A raft of critical decisions was made by Cabinet at its meeting of July 3rd, 2024, which was dedicated exclusively to Beryl. These decisions include:
1. The contracting of the Fast Ferry, Gem Star, and Bequia Express to transport passengers, goods, and
2. Duty-free waivers on all relief supplies.
3. Duty-free barrels from now until December 31, 2024.
4. Duty-free waivers on chainsaws, jackhammers, generators, water tanks, and other like equipment/tools.
5. Purchase of 3 pick-ups (two for Union Island, one for Canouan) and four dump trucks (3-tons and 4-tons) for Southern Grenadines.
6. Release of first $15 million of an allocated $50 million from the Contingency Fund.
7. Identification of sources of financing required for Relief, Recovery, and Reconstruction. Hundreds of millions of dollars required.
8. First bundle of Supplementary Estimates and a Supplementary Appropriation Bill for 100-day relief and elements of recovery to be scheduled for Parliament on July 18, 2024.
9. Repurposing of some monies already in the existing Budget 2024.
10. Resolution for Parliament to increase Overdraft Limit of government.
11. Minister of Finance to engage banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions for forbearance on loans for affected persons.
12. A multiplicity of decisions regarding Security, Shelters, Disaster Management, Clean-up programme of Rubble, Electricity, Water, Telecoms, Evacuation of Persons from Southern Grenadines, Primary and Secondary Education for students in Southern Grenadines, Public Health, etc.
13. Damage Assessment.
14. Coordination of critical work with CARICOM, OECS, CDEMA, RSS, United Nations Agencies, and global nongovernmental organisations such as the World Central Kitchen.
15. Allowing Carnival to proceed but in accord with security requisites set by the Commissioner of Police.
16. In addition to the general framework for relief, recovery and reconstruction, specific plans are being fashioned for the special circumstances of Union Island, Mayreau and Canouan.
17. Prime Minister to effect, and oversee, the active engagement with leaders regionally and globally on Relief, Recovery, and Reconstruction. The PM to urge international support, too, for Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique.
CRITICAL NEED FOR HOUSING
In the Southern Grenadines there is a population in excess of 5,000 persons. The 2012 Census placed the number over
4,000; in the last 12 years, there has been internal migration towards the Southern Grenadines. In the 2012 Census, the data showed that there was an average of 2.5 persons per household in the Southern Grenadines.
In terms of the number of households and businesses in the Southern Grenadines, the best proxy is the number of active accounts at VINLEC as follows: Canouan, 1038; Mayreau, 142; Union Island, 1,315; thus, a total of 2,495 accounts, the bulk of which, by far, are household accounts.
The government estimates that some 2,000 houses in the Southern Grenadines require rebuilding in whole or in substantial part. Between Bequia and St. Vincent, it is estimated that the corresponding number is in excess of 600 houses. It is further estimated that no more than one-quarter has any, or any adequate, insurance. Thus, about 2,000 home-owners are likely to have no insurance support; and the bulk of the others, by far, have little or no material resources to start their rebuilding process right away. As has been the policy, and the record, of the ULP government, we assist tremendously, including the actual building of houses severely damaged or destroyed.
In the Southern Grenadines, building costs are at least 50 percent higher than on St. Vincent, and perhaps 30 percent above the building costs in Bequia. From the above figures, and the actual condition of the housing stock, one can deduce reasonably, that there are 1,000 houses in the Southern Grenadines which are likely to require government’s support to rebuild completely and another 500 requiring substantial repair. The cost of those 1,000 houses to be rebuilt at $200,000 per house, including basic infrastructure, amounts to an astronomical $200 million; a further 500 houses to be rebuilt on Bequia and St. Vincent will add another $100 million. And then there are monies required for the repair of others.
This is a matter on which the home-owners, financial institutions, and the government are to be engaged creatively for urgent solutions. It is critical for recovery and reconstruction.
EDUCATION FOR THE CHILDREN
The roofs of the primary and secondary schools in Canouan are badly damaged, but they can be repaired before the new term in September 2024, provided there is a return to some elemental normalcy (electricity, water, telecoms), and sufficient housing
provisions; the schools are actually used as shelters. So, there may be a possibility of resuming primary and secondary education on Canouan, but this is very uncertain. Mayreau’s primary school may be in a similar realm of possibility but yet uncertainty at this time. However, it is well-nigh impossible for primary and secondary education to be restored on Union Island in time for September 2024. Accordingly, it is necessary for specific facilities to be made available on St. Vincent for this purpose. This will involve, too, accommodation for students, teachers, and members of their families. This will carry a huge cost to be funded by the government. We are already examining the options.
CLEAN-UP
The clean-up in the Southern Grenadines is a massive undertaking. The huge piles of dispersed rubble have to gathered, centralised, separated, crushed, and unuseful remains removed to another location outside of these fragile islands. Preparatory work is being done by BRAGSA and relevant contracts have been awarded. Expert advice is being actively sought as to the best way of treating with this vital issue.
MEANWHILE NEMO AT WORK
Meanwhile NEMO and its various constituent bodies are in a very activist mode, doing heroic work. NEMO’s Management Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, is continuing its oversight role. On Saturday, July 6th, the Council met in full session and took critical decisions on the way forward.
Other vital state agencies including CWSA and VINLEC have been outstanding in their efforts.
Still, there is so much to be done now, and for the future.
SUMMATION
Despite all the magnificent endeavours of our government, NEMO, the various state agencies, the private sector, our diaspora, activist individuals, and supportive solidarity from regional and international governments and institutions, the relief, recovery, and reconstruction would not be optimal unless all of our people pull their weight in accord with their respective abilities and circumstances. Too many of our people are not yet in active solidarity mode. It is painful to see old women and men helping to clean up, and some strong men and women idly watching them. This must change!
Rotary Club of St. Vincent: Celebrating the Magic of Rotary
“Everybody can be great… because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” - Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) – Baptist minister, civil rights activist, and philosopher
THE ROTARY CLUB OF ST. VINCENTheld its handover ceremony at the La Vue Hotel in Villa on Saturday, 29th June 2024. This was the grand occasion when the Club’s outgoing President, Mikasha Ramsaran, passed over the reins of leadership to the incoming President, Dawnette Constance.
During the celebration, attendees were reminded that the Rotary Club of St. Vincent was chartered by Rotary International on 5th August 1971. George Phillips was the Club’s Charter President. He was ably supported by charter members Bob Haydock, Bobby Brisbane, Fitz Richardson, Elliott Cambridge, Reggie Bollers, Richard Joachin, Bertram Arthur, Dr. Noel Innis, Clifford Williams, Sylvester Taylor, Paddy Punnett, Michael DeFreitas, Baldwin Ollivierre, John Henderson, Tony Sardine, Eardley Stephens, Medford Scott, Douglas Gill, and Dennis DaSilva.
During its five decades of existence, the Club has been involved in numerous community projects aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of citizens throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These have included, but not limited to, the installation and maintenance of Drive Carefully Signs along the main roads leading to schools; the Fancy Water Project; the Myreau Water Project; managing camps following the 1979 Soufriere Volcano eruptions; assistance to polio victims; supporting various programmes at the Liberty Lodge Boys’ Training Centre; initiating the Fisherman’s Day Competition; constructing the School for Children With Special Needs with assistance from Harding Lawrence of Mustique and locally raised funds; conducting numerous Rotary Village Doctor Programmes aimed at providing needed free medical care to rural areas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; supporting Grenada’s recovery efforts following Hurricane Ivan’s devastation in 2004; the Wheel Chair Distribution Programme with wheelchairs donated by the Wheelchair Foundation of the UK; organising and managing the Annual Rotary Christmas Programme for disadvantaged children; literary projects; secondary school book donations; the Computer Assisted Literary Solutions and the Georgetown Secondary School; the George Phillips Excellence Awards recognizing outstanding fourth form students; the Young Employees Socialization Training Programmes sponsored by the East Caribbean Institute of Banking; and others.
As the ceremony commenced, Rotarians and guests were invited to reflect on the Rotary Four Way Test of the Things That we Think, Say, and Do: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Such a focus enables members to create and maintain habits that would strengthen relationships and keep the fabric of society strong.
Attendees were asked to note that the Rotary Club of St. Vincent chartered the Rotaract Club of Kingstown in 1986 empowering young adults 18 years and older to serve their communities while simultaneously facilitating personal and
professional growth. Two years later, in 1988, it chartered the Rotary Club of Bequia. The 1995 charter of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent South provided residents on mainland St. Vincent with an opportunity to serve mankind through this additional club option. The first Interact Club (attracting young persons 12-18 years old in the secondary school) was established in 2007.
Outgoing President Mikasha thanked the hardworking members of her Board of Directors and the general membership of the club for the tremendous support given throughout her tenure. She was especially appreciative of the number of Rotarians who supported the herculean efforts to guarantee a successful Rotary 7030 District Conference in April 2024 and noted the tremendous contribution made by Past President Shafia LondonWilliams. She also used the opportunity to thank the many companies and individuals who continue to faithfully support the Club’s fundraising and outreach efforts.
President Mikasha also noted the outstanding work that has been done by Past President Dr. Janelle Allen as she tirelessly supported and championed many of the Club’s projects throughout the years. This was especially so in relation to the establishment of the Interact Club at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Girls’ High School and her passion for the Breast Cancer Awareness Project that enabled three (3) local nurses to be trained in Taiwan to use a special breast cancer detection machine that is now regularly used in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It was therefore not surprising that Dr. Allen was unanimously selected to receive the Paul Harris Fellowship Award; a designation that is given to Rotarians who have served their community selflessly.
Incoming President, Rotarian Dawnette Constance, used the opportunity to introduce her Board of Directors for the Rotary Year 2024-2025. These included Rotarians Felicia Cumberbatch, Vice President and President Elect; Kayshorn Findlay, Treasurer; Shari Bramble, Secretary; Past President Earl Tash, Director and Rotary Foundation Chair; Franz George, Director with responsibility for Community Service; Francis Marks, Club Service Director; Kimeisha Bailey, Director with responsibility for Public Image; Samantha Lugay-Charles, Director of International Services; La Teisha Sandy-Marks, Membership Chairman; Shafia London-Williams, Administration Chair; Dr. Janelle Allen, Youth Leadership Chairman; and Mikasha Ramsaran as Immediate Past President. She further noted that this year’s theme is “Celebrate the Magic of Rotary”.
The directors and members of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, with hearts full of grace and souls generated by love, look forward to working along with the other members of the Rotary family, sponsors, and the general public in championing projects that will enhance the lives of the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as we together Celebrate the Magic of Rotary.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
UK, US and Gaza
LABOUR VICTORYwide but thin.
The British Labour Party won a landslide 412 seats in the July 4th elections, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. The Conservatives were reduced to a paltry 121 seats in the 650-member parliament.
The margin of victory covers an underlying worry for new prime minister Keir Starmer and his punchdrunk Labour MPs. Whilst Labour has this vast parliamentary majority, their national share of the vote was only around a third of all votes cast. It’s a very low mandate.
Journalist Nesrine Malik calls it right: ‘It was a striking landslide victory. That is nothing to be disputed. It’s a 170-seat majority and one of the biggest landslides in British political history. But there is an interesting story underneath that landslide narrative. There’s reduced turnout. Seats previously held by the Tories were then won by Labour, but not necessarily by a huge number of votes. So, the story of the election is Tory collapse, a Labour landslide, but a sort of wide but thin mandate that Labour really needs to solidify over the next five years if this is not going to be a temporary win for the party.’
Sir Keir Starmer, a right-of-centre politician, vowed to lead a government of ‘stability and moderation’ in his first official address at 10 Downing Street. A former Human rights lawyer, Starmer will long be remembered for supporting the Israeli government’s decision to cut off food, water, and electricity as it wages its genocidal war against Palestinians.
Among the other notable results in the election, Conservative Liz Truss, the shortest-serving British prime minister at just 49 days, lost her seat in Parliament. Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader expelled from his party on the spurious grounds of anti-Semitism, won his seat. The Farright political swamp monster Nigel Farage, best known for pushing Brexit, was elected in his eighth attempt to gain a seat. Irish nationalist Sinn Féin party became Northern Ireland’s largest party in the British Parliament for the first time.
It will be interesting to see how labour under Starmer governs. On the economy, he has embraced growth as the lever of prosperity, embracing the disastrous neoliberal concept of trickle down, or, as they would call it, float up–so, the tide will rise, and all the boats will float up with it. He articulates a sort of austerity that implies that there will be either cuts or maintained reductions to investment in public services.
How that works in a country suffering the consequences of 14 years of Conservative austerity remains to be seen. It is well documented that the public infrastructure is falling apart; funding for public education, housing, the National Health Service, and public services for youth and families has all been decimated.
Counter-revolution in America
The US Supreme Court ended its 2024 term with a raft of decisions that historians will mark as another counter-revolutionary moment in America’s history.
Many constitutional scholars have argued that the paramount goal of the American Revolution, beginning with the Declaration of Independence
on July 4, 1776, was to end King George III’s iron rule over the American colonies and protect the country against the re-emergence of a leader with absolute power.
The US Supreme Court dropped a bomb. Chief Justice John Roberts’ opinion in Trump v. United States (a 6 to 3 decision) seems to have other ideas. Justice Roberts ruled that presidents are absolutely immune from criminal prosecution for their core official acts, including starting wars of aggression or defying scores of Congressional subpoenas. He said presidents are ‘presumptively immune’ for all other acts to be defeated by the legal standard of ‘we’ll know it when we see it.’
We know it when we see it has its history in a 1964 Supreme Court decision on obscenity. Justice Potter Stewart, in a concurring opinion reasoned, ‘I will know it when I see it.’ Roberts refrained from providing a single hypothetical to illustrate his categories, except to say all exchanges with and orders to the Justice Department are immune.
In a blistering dissenting opinion, an incensed Justice Sonia Sotomayor argued that the Roberts majority had invented a ‘law-free zone’ entrusting the president with a ‘loaded weapon’ for future occupants of the White House to brandish. Specifically, she noted, ‘Orders the Navy’s Seal Team to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organises a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune, immune, immune.’ She concluded that ‘moving forward, all former presidents will be cloaked in such immunity. If the occupant of that office misuses official power for personal gain, the criminal law that the rest of us must abide by will not provide a backstop…never in U.S. history have presidents had more confidence that they would be immune from prosecution for crimes of any sort.’
Gaza is
much
Worse than Imagined
Israel’s genocidal war on Palestinians has entered its 10th month as the official Palestinian death toll has reached 38,200. But a new report in the prestigious British medical journal Lancet estimates the actual death toll could be 186,000 or even higher – that’s roughly 8% of Gaza’s population. The report looks at how war leads to indirect deaths due to shortages of medical care, food, shelter and water.
The study points out that the death toll is higher because the official toll does not take into account thousands of dead buried under the rubble and indirect deaths due to the destruction of health facilities, food distribution systems and other public infrastructure.
Conflicts have indirect health implications beyond the direct harm from violence, the study said, and even if the Gaza war ends immediately, it will continue to cause many indirect deaths in the coming months and years through things like diseases.
And to think that many in high places refuse to call Israel’s war a genocidal act of aggression necessitating a war crimes tribunal.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to
Hance John wins third Ragga Soca crown
THE NAMEHance John continues to be synonymous with Ragga Soca in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and on Saturday 6th, July, he demonstrated the reason why: he won his third Ragga Soca Monarch title with his song “Spectacular”.
John first won the competition in 2017, then in 2019. He credits his success to consistency, accentuating this with reference to the fact he placed second on three occasions - 2018, 2022 and 2023.
Commenting on what drives his zeal, Hance said, “With 21 years in the music industry as well as competing, our mindset has always been to deliver a great performance that will not only win a title but also to raise the bar in terms of quality…. ur mindset is beyond just competing, we are adding value to the national festival so that the rest of the world can be interested in the product we are offering,”
Ragga Soca Monarch 2024
Hance John invites a ‘Spectacular’ lady, Rene Baptiste, on stage during his winning performance.
And as for ‘behind the scenes’, Hance disclosed, “I have two great individuals who manage my production team/team global; Sean Fredericks and Natasha Commissiong,” whom he described as being “critical of concepts, choreography, rehearsals, dress code, no alcohol policy, getting enough rest, dancers, props, lighting and sound, cultural influence, stage management and most importantly the performance script.”
Cozier — ‘Big Baby’.
As for the inspiration for huis winning number ‘Spectacular’, the triple-times winner shared that the song came to him while he was at Notting Hill Carnival in 2023. “I met a young lady on the road while playing with Tempo Mas UK …. I was also heading to Amsterdam for a show, as well as to do some Studio sessions with Wetty Beatz, who’s also the Producer and Co-writer of ‘Spectacular’… Wetty was like we can’t go wrong by highlighting women in the most positive and uplifting manner. So I started drawing reference to the young lady I met, while avoiding anything sexual or derogatory in my writing as we wanted to capture a wider audience of females.”
During his performance, Hance paid tribute to a number of prominent Vincentian women and to enhance his performance he brought onstage former Minister of Culture, Rene Baptiste, Business woman Jean Johnney-Findlay and his daughter, Paige John.
“It’s a great feeling to win. However, we wanted to deliver a message to St. Vincent and the Grenadines about our very own spectacular women,” the Monarch commented.
Hance took home a cash prize of EC$30,000,00 up from the 2023 prize of EC$15,000.00.
Second in the Ragga Soca Monarch running was Utamu ‘Bongo Prime’ Rose with his song ‘Special Invitation’. Rose walked away with EC$ 15,000
Defending champion Javid ‘Jay-R’ Rouse with his song ‘Fuh Dat’ had to settle for a tie for third position with the duo of Claydon ‘Dymez’ Roache and Elrico ‘Da Pixel’ Hunte with their song ‘Rub ah Dub’.
Rouse was unable to retain the crown despite a ‘red carpet’ entrance.
Amounts of EC$10,000.00 and EC$7,500.00 were set aside for the third and fourth places respectively.
The other competitors were: Keith Currency- ‘In front ah me’; Jamarie ‘LPank’ Stapleton — ‘Fever’;
Grade 3 student takes Junior Soca title
SOUTH RIVERS, an interior settlement on the North Central Windward district of main land St. Vincent, continued to demonstrate that talent abounds in its midst, when Eliza Cruickshank copped the Junior Soca Monarch. That was at Russell’s Auditorium last week Saturday. Eliza, a Grade Four student of the South Rivers Methodist School unleashed a number called ‘Soca-holic’ to take the title, in the competition held at the Russell’s Auditorium, last Saturday, July 6. A first timer in any competition, Eliza brought the Russell’s Auditorium to life with her rendition
A relative newcomer - Ujamu ‘Bongo Prime’ Rose was a picture of confidence in delivering his second place song.
Defending champion Javid ‘Jay-R’ Rouse had to settle for a tie for third position.
Claydon ‘Dymez’ Roache and Elrico ‘Da Pixel’ Hunte doing their third placed song ‘Rub ah Dub’.
Eliza Cruickshank – Junior Soca Monarch 2024.
Jelani Sandy and Nicolyle Matthews – Second Place- Junior Soca Monarch 2024.
Calypso Monarch 2024: Madzart stands supreme
by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
Photo Credit: Oris Robinson
RAEON ‘MADZART’ PRIMUSis the 2024 Calypso monarch. His composition ‘Contours’, did the trick for him. A student of Geography as he outlined in the song, Madzart, couched that word in such a manner that the average Vincentian was able to decipher what he implied.
Altogether, Madzart is familiar with all genres of music and has distinguished himself in Ragga and Soca. He entered the calypso arena previously. This time, he went the full distance and his dedication paid off.
Madzart earned $30,000 for his effort, an increased pay day over previous years. He was chased by Elvis ‘Abijah’ Abbey, the 2002 Calypso monarch. Abijah’s selection ‘Dem Pirates’ took him close to a second title, but perhaps the ‘Contours’ got in his way.
Third position went to Robert Patches’ Knights with his selection, ‘Kingdom must come down’. Fourth spot went to Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd the previous title holder. Her number was ‘Hypocrites and Crooks’.
The finals came off at Carnival City Victoria last Sunday, in the moisture left by Hurricane Beryl which left a trail of destruction and devastation through the Caribbean.
the Beryl phenomenon forced changes to this year’s festivities with
Raeon ‘Madzart’ Primus – created history by adding the 2024 Calypso Monarch title to his previous victories in Power Soca, Ragga Soca and the Road March.
adjustments to the schedule.
One of those was the use of two bands for the Calypso final which saw the Nex Level and Festival (Band) sharing the workload dispensed among 12 finalists.
Right: Robert ‘Patches’ King added another top three finish to the list that he had already accumulated.
That task was done by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Band.
The other finalists were Abuza
Cupid with his composition ‘One thing to another’; Delahanty Isles who did ‘Go back and sing’; Glenroy Homey’ Delpesche who did ‘Stand up for your country’; Gosnel ‘GC” Cupid‘Only judges’; Johnny Rebel Hall‘Message from the children’; Kingsley
Lorna ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd continues to be a contender though her confidence might just have got the better of her last Sunday evening.
‘Hero’ Roberts - ‘Thank God it’s Friday’ and Marvo Morgan - Nobody’s listening’.
Problem’s ‘Carnival Jumbie’
is Road March
SHERTZ ‘PROBLEM
CHILD’ JAMESis the Vincymas 2024 Road March winner. His resoundingly popular ‘Carnival Jumbie’ (62 points) was ‘miles ahead’ of Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper’s ‘Bad Company’ (45) which, according to the official Carnival Development Corporation count, was second in the race for the most popular song on the road over the two days of ‘street jump=ups’Monday 8th and Tuesday
9th July.
‘Problem Child’ is no stranger to the Road March winner’s enclosure. In fact, the vibrant, energetic, highly regarded recording and performing artiste and song writer, has won the Vincymas Roach March title on three previous occasions: in 2007 with ‘Party Animal’; 2009 with ‘Mad House’ and 2017 with ‘Neva Bow’.
As for his song writing prowess, he is a major player in the soca
industry with collaborations with other top soca artistes, including ‘Motto’ of St. Lucia and Patrice Roberts of Trinidad and Tobago. He is also one of this country’s Cultural Ambassadors having been so designated in 2022 on the occasion of this country’s Independence celebrations that year. For his fourth victory ‘on the road’ so to speak, Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James now occupies a space in the rare air of local calypso/soca
artistes who have won the Vncymas Road March title on four or more occasions. The others are: Alston BECKET Cyrus — 8 times; Touch — 6 times and Cornelius ‘Poorsah’ Williams — 5 times solo and once in collaboration with Gregory ‘DJ Twenty’ Small. THE VINCENTIAN congratulates ‘Problem Child’ on yet another outstanding feat and thanks him for continuing to contribute to the growth and development of the music industry here.
Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James moved into an exclusive group with his fourth Road March title.
Elvis ‘Abijah’ Abbey lost to the eventual Monarch by 0ne point according to the official results released by the CDC.
Hooper still pushing on
DELROY ‘FIREMAN’ HOOPER admitted that he often thinks about putting down the microphone and spending more time with his family.
“But then who is going to do it?”
On July 6, Hooper proved that he was still the ‘Ruler of the Land’ as he successfully defended the Soca Monarch Crown and in the process, chalking up his thirteenth Soca Monarch title.
The 2024 title also brings up his 18th major title in the Soca arena — having won a four Ragga Soca Monarchtitles and one Road March title.
But it was not about him, but the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
“Without my fans, I am nothing,” he told THE VINCENTIAN.
against Hooper, but the veteran prevailed registering 239 points.
Deron ‘Magikal’ Rouse, the 2019 Soca Monarch winner, took the runnerup spot with his song ‘Fully’, with 222 points.
The duo comprising Jahlil ‘Vyper’ Williams and Klyvert ‘KTB’ Browne who had the various parties and rural Carnival events turned on with the song ‘Sideman’, showed great promise as a contender and walked away with the third prize.
arch title.
Ozarie Matthews continued to demonstrate that he is a force with which to reckon. He finished fourth performing the song ‘Front Teeth’. placing fourth.
But, even with the weight of 13 Soca Monarch titles under his belt the result of a long and arduous journey for he and his team, for him, it was important that he must remain steadfast and produce music for his fans — and by extension, all the people of SVG.
Hurricane Beryl may have put a bit of a damper on this year’s Carnival celebration, but it was the hind of performance from ‘Fireman; that Vincentians have become accustomed — abundant energy, lots of pace and just good vibes as he belted out his 2024 hit ‘Bad Company’.
With the announcement earlier that there was a significant increase in the prize money, the new talent was eager to stamp their name in the Soca arena. Ten were selected to come up
one of the bigger songs of the season and did well in the rural events.
So too, Lancelot ‘Mad Skull’ Closter — on his return — was considered a favourite with his song ‘Sound Check’.
Orlando ‘Kemmy’ Christopher would also have to look back at his misfortune this year after his presentation was interrupted due to an incident in the crowd.
For now, it was back to the drawing board for the other competitors in this year’s competition.
Sherwin ‘Fryyiy’ Miller would have to consider himself unlucky having not placed in the top four.
After all, his 2024 hit, ‘Leave the liquor’ was
it), Kester ‘Flanka’ Chapman (We love Soca) and Keith Currency (Supah Soca) were the other 2024 finalists.
Nevertheless, Hooper remained humble as he thanked his loyal fans, especially those affected by the passage of Hurricane Beryl, just a few days before the Soca Monarch competition.
More importantly, he credited his team who he said has been with him in the decades that he has been doing music.
Among those he credited included the Avenue Dancers, the members of the Roses Crew, Maxwell ‘Tajoe’ Francis — whom he said he enjoyed a good working relationship with, his stage manager Jean Johnny-Findlay and the other members of his management team. (DD)
Kory ‘Aidol’ McTair (We de scene), Lee Jace ‘King Jace’ Bullock (Do
Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper takes another Soca Monarch title.
L-R: Jahlil ‘Vyper’ Williams and Klyvert ‘KTB’ Browne – debuted with a third place.
Deron ‘Magikal’ Rouse – a former Mionarch, put in a determined performance to take second place.
Ozarie Matthews took fourth to situate himself among the top echelons of the local soca scene.
Junior Carnival: Nelson Bloc dominates
THE JUNIOR MASQUERADERShad to battle the rain, and often time strong winds at the Victoria Park on June 29, and with Hurricane Beryl approaching at that stage, the competition was almost overshadowed by the impending system.
Nelson Bloc won the ‘Junior Band of the Year’ title for 2024 with ‘De Band Coming — The Ruby Jubilee’, followed by Lynx Mas Band in second place with ‘All Aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.
Last year’s junior champs, Blondie Bird and Friends, had to settle for third with their ‘Motherland’ and High Voltage, returning after a one-year break, placed fourth with ‘Westward Ho! Destination West Indies.
In the Junior ‘Uptown Competition’ dubbed ‘Mas on the Move’, Blondie Bird was judged to be the most outstanding band, followed by SVG Players International (second) with ‘A Glimpse of Brooklyn’, Melbourne Artisans’ ‘Going Green’ (third) and Lynx Mas Band (fourth).
Nelson Bloc took top honours in the Junior Individuals 5 to 9 category with Makeda Irish’s
portrayal ‘Musical Interlude’, and also in the 10-15 category with Kaydish Sargeant portraying ‘Strings’.
Nelson Bloc also dominated the Junior King and Queen competitions — Taiesha Martin won the Junior Queen title with ‘When Steel Talks’ and Jaime Stephenson the Junior King portraying ‘All that Brass’.
Rounding up the top four in the Junior Queen competition were Blondie Bird and Friends with ‘Afro Beats’ (second), SVG Players with ‘Japanese Garden’ (third) and Mirage with ‘Clouds and Rainbows’.
In the Junior King category, SVG Players placed second with ‘Luna Park’, Imagination Mas Band third with the portrayal ‘Sunbeam’ and Verlene Ralph and the Professionals fourth with ‘King Solomon’s Gold’. (DD)
‘Panside; - the best Junior Section from Nelson Bloc’s ‘De band Coming: The Ruby Jubilee…’
‘Harmony of the Sea’, from Lynx’s “All Aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise.’
A section from High Voltage’s ‘Westward Ho! Destination West Indies.
Junior King of the Bands ‘All that Brass’, portrayed by Jamie Stephenson, from Nelson Bloc.
Junior Queen of the Bands ‘When Steel Talks’, portrayed by Taiesha Martin, from Nelson Bloc.
The Vincentian took to the street in search of some rection to what they experienced for Vincymas 2024.responses to the festival. This is what it sounds like:
Elvin Edwards: Businessman
The level of participation in Carnival does not constitute your age. It’s about morale consciousness. Why should someone want to parade themselves
semi-nude in the public? You ask yourself is this really value? We could play Mas and look good. Why this level of vulgarity? Look at the men. They are dressed properly.
Natakie Ben: Craftswoman
We lose the essence of the carnival. The culture part of it is gone. That is why a lot of people ain’t coming in Town. I have an issue with the costumes. Kids shouldn’t be on road Carnival Tuesday. The behavior and the dress code is not good for children.
Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles: Cultural Officer
We made the best of a bad situation. We are paying attention to the needs of the people who are affected, while at the same time,
the Mas continued in an abridged version for those who want to participate.
There were aspects of miscommunication, but those were settled. An approximate time frame was arrived at. Competitions ended in reasonable time. 7,000 visitors were able to take in what was on offer.
Tyrone Grant: Retired
Mas Bands were good. The spirit was high given all that went on before. I give it 70 per cent. The music wasn’t really there.
Ah man say one, two, three testing. Testing the mike is a big thing. I used to play a great part in the Steel band. We need a Bomb competition for the Steel bands. There was no King and Queen of the Bands. That is taking away from the Carnival package.
Sherrill-Ann Mason: SVG Diaspora Committee
New York
I witnessed some of the festival. We are losing some aspects of the tradition. The Dimanche Gras crowd was relatively small in comparison to those at the exclusive parties. The Carnival Development Corporation needs to coordinate with promoters of private events. We lose creativity when most of the bands are feathers. It is like something you have seen before in Miami, Trinidad and Tobago and Brazil. It looks like mass produced and recycled costumes as opposed to creative enterprises.
Traditional Mas is not getting the kind of support that they should. We need to revamp the carnival so that people get to experience traditional Mas.
Beryl barrels
ÂtruÊ the Southern Grenadines
JULY1st, 2024 will long be remembered by all residents of the Southern Grenadines - Union island, Carriacou, Petit Martinique, Petit St. Vincent (PSV), Palm Island, Mayreau and Canouan. With the eye of Cat 4 Hurricane Beryl passing directly over Carriacou and (its) eye wall (the strongest section of the hurricane) passing directly over Union island … all these small island communities were ravaged… virtually destroyed; anything that was moveable was displaced. Vehicles, houses, air and seaport infrastructure and agriculture were severely damaged by a storm that would eventually continue on a path of destruction, including but not limited to Jamaica as of the time of writing.
YRM/TRRL on the move
As is customary, the Youlou Radio Movement formerly the Rainbow Radio League Inc. (YRM/RRL) provided limited emergency communications services after all regular means of communications were severed, including radio communications. The YRM/RRL mobilized a small team to determine the extent of the damage as well as passing health and welfare traffic (information) from the disaster zone. Travelling alongside a team of first other responders from NEMO, Red Cross and World Food Program via the MV Gem Star, the 3-person YRM/RRL communications team set out for Union Island to ascertain firsthand what had happened and to locate all radio operators still on the island. This, while using mobile radio to communicate direct with radio amateurs in St. Vincent to provide first hand reports of damage, as well as reporting the immediate needs of those who are still in dire need of help.
Fortunately, one of the two main repeaters remained functional and radio operators in St. Vincent were afforded limited but reliable coverage during and after the passage of the violent storm. Thanks to all radio operators on Bequia and St. Vincent who were present to receive and send reports. The first responder emergency communications (Emcoms) team visiting Union, and then Mayreau were J88PB Justin Brooker, J88CD Don De Riggs (team leader) and a trainee radio operator. While in Union we were given first-hand accounts and experiences by the radio operators including J88NMF Molica Mulzac.
Union Island is unlikely to get back electricity before year-end
Evacuation begins
(Source: echo’s video tweet)
On Wednesday, July 04, the MV Gem Star took the first wave of evacuees, numbering close to 1000, from Union, Mayreau and Canouan. This group also included medical emergencies, and Gem Star had to divert into Bequia to deal with a medical emergency. The ambulance was ready and waiting on the jetty to receive the casualty. Some of the evacuees are being sheltered at the Kingstown Government school located in Stoney Grounds, while a significant number are staying with relatives or family friends. This reminded us that while making an emergency call from Mayreau, our team was asked to transport a child with a medical emergency to the nearby clinic, the victim having stepped on an exposed nail. We took the opportunity to warn him and others that after a violent storm lots of sharp metal, broken glass and exposed nails will be all over the place, and extra caution (compulsory footwear) must be exercised while walking through a field of debris.
National response to relief
While NEMO must be able, within less than 24 hours after the passage of the storm, to initiate a relief operation for those affected and in shelters in the Southern Grenadines. For this, NEMO must be applauded.
However, some residents, i.e. affected persons, were openly disgusted with the manner in which the emergency supplies were distributed with what they described as ‘preference given to party supporters’. Whatever, especially in a national emergency, this behavior is unacceptable as the ‘rain falls on both the just and unjust’, therefore everyone in Union, Mayreau and Canouan should be getting an equal amount of support as EVERYONE was affected. Here is where law enforcement could work with NEMO to ensure that assistance and relief reaches everyone in a structured manner.
This writer also witnessed persons going on the relief supply boat and taking up packages without even considering what kind of supplies were contained therein. Some even left with tents earmarked for use field operations by the relief and response teams.
While disorderly behavior cannot be justified, it is understandable that during a crisis when emotions are running high, many people are traumatized and needs are dire, even the best can crack and crumble
There will be need for emergency telecoms support and logistics coordination as the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines conducts humanitarian needs assessments.
(Photo Credit: WFP/Fedel Mansour)
Going forward, there is a need for continuing emergency communications services in the affected areas until reliable, normal communications have been re-established. The only way to respond effectively, is to know what the immediate needs are.
The YRM/RRL takes this opportunity to thanks those in the diaspora who have committed assistance in this time of dire need. Special thanks to Leroy “Fly” Edwards of SVG General Services, who, on the day after the storm when businesses were closed, made available gratis a 100Ah battery so that we could conduct our operations in the Grenadines. Thanks also to Mike De Riggs who loaned his AWD vehicle to be used for Emcoms first responder duties in Union and Mayreau as a mobile communications command vehicle.
Confirmed information indicates that the government has granted duty free concessions on the importation of relief supplies, in the case of barrels for a period up to December 31, 2024.
The YRM/RRL suggests, as it has done on previous occasions, that request be made to family and friends to send solar panels, charge controllers, inverters and deep cycle batteries, survival kits, rechargeable lights, emergency radios (crank up), so that residents here you will not be left in the dark or quiet when a storm passes or VINLEC is doing load shedding.
(Contributed by: Donald De Riggs)
Residents of Union Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines prepare to board a ferry to reach shelter in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. (Photo Credit: WFP/Fedel Mansour)
Relief supplies from Trinidad and Tobago were among the first to reach Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. (Photo Source: T&T Ministry of Works)
Vincymas
Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra last recorded a Senior Panorama victory in 2018.
Left: Hennessey Starflift Steel Orchestra completed another hat trick of wins in the Senior Panorama and now counts a total of 23 wins.
Starflift does the hat trick
A DISAPPOINTINGtotal of four steel orchestra comprise the complement of competitors in the Senior Panorama of Vincymas 2024.
Predictably, it came down to a straight fight
between arch rivals Hennessey Starflift Steel Orchestra and their arch rivals Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra.
And as it was on the evening of Sunday 7th
July at Victoria Park, Hennessey Starflift Steel Orchestra edged Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra by a mere four points on the judges’ tabulation, to complete another hat trick of wins
— 2022, 2023, 2024. . Starlift’s rendition of Touch’s ‘Puss man, arranged by Trinidadian Dante Pantin earne them a total of 255 points.
Sion Hill, playing Becket’s ‘Oh La La,
arranged by another Trinidadian, Terrance “BJ” Marcelle, recorded a total of 251 points.
Third place was taken by Symphonix Steel Orchestra with total of 223 points following
their presentation of ‘Pan Jam’ by X- A- Dus. The Elite Steel Orchestra settled in fourth position with 185 points after rendering BECKET’s ‘Don’t eat and lie down’. (KH)
Grade 3 student takes Junior Soca title
From Page 10
and performance and in the process, displaced the reigning MonarchDe Andre Simmons of the St. Martin’s Secondary School, with ‘Trouble dey dey’.
She beat the Dr. JP Eustace Memorial Secondary duo of Nicolyle Mathews and Jaelani Sandy into second place. Their song was entitled: ‘Drone dem’.
Kristian ‘Lil Kris’ Christopher – third place.
Third place went to St. Vincent Grammar School’s Kristian ‘Lil Kris’ Christopher whose number was ‘I
come to…’.
Other contenders were: Decoj Theobalds from Central Leeward Secondary School who did ‘Steel Pan’; Deno Nero, Sandy Bay Secondary School, with ‘Little man’; Jimari Nicholls of C. W. Prescod Primary who did ‘Go Granny’; Lylanie ‘Singing Lily’ Bascombe of the Greiggs Primary who did ‘Jiggle like a monkey and her school mate, Shakira Johnson, whose song was ‘House invasion’. (WKA)
Haitian police retake main hospital
HAITI’s newly selected Prime Minister Garry Conille and Haiti’s police chief visited the country’s largest hospital on Tuesday, July 09, after authorities said they took control of the institution over the weekend from armed gangs.
Haitian police chief Normil Rameau told a news conference Monday that police took control of the Hospital of the State University of Haiti, known as the General Hospital in Port-auPrince, on Sunday night after months of escalating attacks from armed groups.
Prime Minister Conille was accompanied on his visit by Kenyan officer Godfrey Otunge, who said that the U.N.-backed contingent of Kenyan police intends to work closely with Haitian authorities as well as local and international partners dedicated to rebuilding Haiti.
The green and white-colored hospital was left ravaged by gangs, with beds stripped of their cots and ceiling fans on the floor. The building’s interior was left with debris and lighting fixtures among the hospital’s
Council member Louis Gérald Gilles was also present on Tuesday’s visit, and announced the hospital should be in full service by February 2025. Conille said the hospital served about 1,500 people a day before the gang’s chokehold.
“This hospital is not for the rich, it’s for the poor,” Conille said on Tuesday. “These are people that need serious help that can’t go see a private doctor.”
The attacks from criminal groups have pushed Haiti’s health system to the brink of collapse and the escalating violence has led to a surge in patients with serious illnesses and a shortage of resources to treat them.
Gangs have been looting, setting fires, and destroying medical institutions and pharmacies in the capital, where they control up to 80% of the area.
Conille said his government will focus on addressing gang violence and referenced the recently deployed Kenyan police as being crucial to helping control the country’s gangs and moving toward democratic elections
On June 25, the initial contingent of 200 Kenyan police arrived in Port-auPrince. Kenya has pledged 1,000 police to the international police force and Conille said the next contingent will be arriving “very soon.” They will later be joined by police from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad and Jamaica in the force that will total 2,500 personnel.
(Source: AP)
cubicles.
Haiti’s newly selected Prime Minister Garry Conille (facing camera) and Haiti’s police chief (left) visited the capital’s largest hospital, after authorities said they took control of the medical institution over the weekend from armed gangs. (Photo: African News)
Haiti’s Prime Ministers said that Kenyan police will be crucial to helping control the counties gangs, (AP Photo/Odelyn)
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Take a second look; difficulties with appliances, water, or electricity in your home may be evident. You can offer your mate a commitment or promise that will help stabilize your personal life. Develop some of your good ideas.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
You should be making plans to spend some time with the ones you love. Your personal life will be under the gun and you may want to avoid the questions your lover is going to want to ask you. Your fun loving approach will be admired and appreciated by others.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
You can make drastic changes in your professional direction this week. Be aware of any emotional deception. Do not sign legal contracts or documents this week. You’ll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Consider the source before you believe what you hear. If they don’t like the plan, suggest that they con tribute a little. Sudden changes regarding work and colleagues are apparent. You can win points with children if you take the time to show interest in their accomplishments.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
You may want to pull out some of those unfinished project you’ve got tucked away. Show what a dedicated person you can be. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Do your own thing, you need time to yourself.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Lovers will be demanding. You are best to sign your partner up for activities that will be tiring. You will feel tired and rundown if you have allowed yourself to get into a financial mess. You won’t be well received by superiors or by your spouse.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You will have the discipline to make changes you feel are necessary. You will have to face each issue separately and in person. Anger might lead to carelessness and minor Injuries. You can make amends by taking them somewhere special.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Do not invest in ventures that only appear to be lucrative. You can make a big difference to children if you are understanding of the difficulties they are experiencing. If you’re looking to do something worthwhile, consider volunteer work.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You can dazzle members of the opposite sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. You can enhance your reputation by making contributions to worthwhile causes. Someone left a real mess for you to sift through.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
You will be able to work with fine detail this week. You may end up being blamed if anything goes wrong. Changes at home might come fast and furious. Organizations may cost you more than you can afford.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)
You may meet that special person if you attend fundraising functions. Don’t even bother trying to get their approval on the things you want to do. Limitations will set in if you haven’t followed the rules. Acknowledge your lover’s needs.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Try not to spend too much on children or entertainment. Refrain from overspending on entertainment or luxury items. Your trendy style and unique way of doing things will entice new acquaintances. Lay your cards on the table regarding your personal direction.
ACROSS 1. Ace 4. Malaysia’s continent 8. Chem. Classroom 11. German “one” 12. Dips out water 14. Subside 15. Options 18. Johnny __ 19. Certain poem
27. “__ Gang” 28. Ike’s theatre 29. One from another planet
31. Diarist Anais
32. Bible verb 34. Edison’s monogram
35. Privileged class
37. River barrier
38. School course (abbr.)
39. Narc’s org.
40. New York time (abbr.)
41. Pluralizing letter 42. Rotten fellow 44. Skirt bottom 46. Fleetcenter team (2 wds.)
53. “Tell __ story” (2 wds.) 54. Bears’ homes 55. Biography, for short 56. Twisted 57. Home run hitter Sammy 58. Like Carroll’s Hatter DOWN 1. Energy 2. __ de Janeiro 3. Switch settings 4. Irish Rose’s beau 5. Saturday, for Jews 6. Clockface numeral 7. Mete out 8. Oahu garland 9. Pres. Lincoln
10. Air-rifle ammo
13. Comedian Caesar 16. Last-year students (abbr.)
30. Not positive (abbr.) 33. Soaps up 36. Social finesse 40. Ferber et al.
41. Rescue worker (abbr.)
43. IM provider
45. Movie lioness
46. Mercedes competitor (abbr.)
47. Above, anthem-
style
Verbalize
AFL’s partner
Laptop maker (abbr.)
Undercover gp.
Turf
AFTER FINISHING SEVENTH in the 2023 Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association(CASA) Championships, St.
SVG one up in Junior Caribbean Squash
Vincent and the Grenadines went one-up, when the 2024 edition concluded Saturday, July 6, at the Tortola Sports Club, British Virgin Islands.
The Vincentians thus placed sixth overall, likewise were sixth in the Boys and Girls standings.
Their performance pleased President of the SVG Squash Association- Amber Glasgow, who was also one of the coaches at the championships.
“I am proud of the team’s performance. St. Vincent and the Grenadines stood out as the team to watch in future championships, which shows that we are doing something right here”.
In this regard, Glasgow cited the potential displayed by Savante Padmore and Caeli George, as “encouraging”, adding, “We are looking forward to big things from Savante, who will likely be the number one seed in the Boys Under-11, having only lost one match in this year’s
championships, as the Bermudans will be moving up to Under-13.”
In the case of Caeli George, Glasgow highlighted that her third place in the Under-13s was cherished, as Vincentian female Squash players rarely medal at Junior CASA.
All in all, Glasgow believes that the positive results are a testament to the focused approach towards development.
“Last year, we implemented a fiveyear development plan, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt, it is beginning to bear fruits”, Glasgow opined.
At the 2024 edition of Junior CASA, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ best showing was Jayden George’s retention of the Boys Under-15 singles, along with Jaydon Williams’ silver in the Boys Under-17, and the third spot retained by George and Williams in the Boys Under-17 Doubles.
These go with Caeli Georg’s third place in the Girls Under-13, with Padmore’s consolation win in the Under-11 Boys and Nadira Morgan, a runner-up in the Girls Under-19 consolation.
The Vincentian representatives
Amber Glasgow, President of the SVGSA, is pleased with the overall performance of the team and pointed to it being the result of a focused development programme.
were Zavin Garrick (Boys Under-11), Ethan Webster (Boys Under-13), Aiden De Freitas (Boys Under-15), Malachi Mc Master (Boys Under-17), Niara Skye John (Girls Under-15), and Zoe Martin and Ciara George (Girls Under-17).
TT players prep for National Championships
LOCAL TABLE TENNIS PLAYERSgot good preparations for the upcoming National Championships later this month, when they contested St. Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association’s Assessment Tournament on June 29, 2024, at the West St. George Secondary School’s Auditorium.
Showing his prowess in the Under15 Boys category was Juvante Baptiste of the Spencer’s Table Tennis Club, who beat his four challengers in the roundrobin format. Baptiste had an 11-7, 11-4 win over Keron Huggins, and saw off OranJay Williams, 11-7, 11-9. He also defeated Jadon Hamilton, 11-4, 11-5, and registered an 11-4, 11-3, triumph over Kaden James. Meanwhile, Zayden Cyrus, representing the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy,
trumped the Boys Under-19 title.
Cyrus’ pathway to victory saw him defeating Lamont Gregg 11-8, 11-7, but losing to Machalie Hazelwood 4-11, 11-9, 6-11.
In the double knock out format, Cyrus and Hazelwood matched up in the final, but Cyrus turned the tables on him, winning the decisive match, 11-3, 11-8, 11-8.
Mc Carter, 15-13, 11-13, 11-7.
Taking the Female Open was Spencer’s Table Tennis Club’s Loukhya Premraj, who beat all who came before her.
She beat National Champion Leah Cumberbatch, 1-8, 5-11, 11-7 and defeated Jessica
Likewise, Premraj handed Shanecia Delpesche an 11-8, 11-4 loss and beat Myra Laborde 11-0, 11-3.
And, Caleb Howard of JD’s beat Sean Stanley, 11-9, 5-11, 11-3, in the final of the Male Open.
Playing in the double knock-out format,
Howard had first beaten Damion Dublin, 14-16, 11-5, 11-8, while Stanley had wins over Dublin, 411, 11-7, 11-9 and Tykel Pierre, 11-8, 11-9. The 2024 National Table Tennis Championships are set for July 27 to August 3, at the West St. George Secondary School.
Juvante Baptiste (left), Zayden Cyrus (right).
Jaydon Williams (left) and Jayden George (right) combined to retain the third spot in the Boys Under-17 Doubles.
Caleb Howard Loukhya Premraj
SVG misses Americas Netball Qualifiers
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINEShas opted out of the 2024 America Netball Youth Cup Qualifiers in Guadeloupe, which was set for July 7 to 14. The withdrawal was occasioned by the nationwide disruption occasioned by the passage of Hurricane Beryl, which affected the island on Monday, July 1, 2024.
A release from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association(SVGNA) stated: “As a nation, as we come to grips with the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association wishes to advise that our Vincy Jewels Under-21 team has to forego its participation in the Americas Netball World Youth Cup
Miles Bascombe, CWI Director of Cricket, in thanking outgoing selectors Desmond Haynes and Ann Browne-John Haynes for their service, pointed to a new system under which selectors will work.
Qualifiers being held in Guadeloupe”.
The SVGNA release dated July 7, 2024, added “This decision was a very difficult one as due to Hurricane Beryl’s passing certain logistics were not possible to facilitate the team’s travel... As we focus on the rebuilding of our nation, Regional Associations have expressed solidarity with St. Vincent and the Grenadines and has indicated their willingness to assist the netballers who have been impacted”.
The VINCENTIAN understands that the team was set to travel to St. Lucia on July 5, via an SVG Coast Guard vessel, en route to Guadeloupe. That vessel would have become unavailable as it was assigned to
The SVG Netball Association will be looking for opportunities to keep the national youth player in active competition.
emergency duties.
The SVGNA had named a twelvemember team, led by Shania Pompey with Phuinza Laborde as her vice—captain.
The rest of the team included Roneika Gibson, Jamarah Coombs, Annicia Dallaway, Monelle Lavia, Diane Toney, Giada Small, Jueneka Quow, Jadeisha Samuel, Ketonna Campbell, and Kayla Miller.
The team Manager was Sylvorn Lewis-Harry, Coach — Dellarice Duncan, Assistant Manager/Coach — Akeil Matthews, and PhysiotherapistRamon Johnson.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines was
set to compete in Pool A alongside Jamaica, Grenada, the Cayman Islands, and Canada.
The other, Pool B, comprises Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Maarten and Guadeloupe.
The teams placing first, second, and third from the Americas Qualifiers earn places at the 2025 World Youth Netball Cup in Gibraltar.
The SVGNA assured that in light of the Vincentian players being unable to compete, opportunities will be sought for “avenues for our young netballers to showcase their talent and abilities on and off the court”.
New selection process for CWI
CRICKET
WEST INDIES (CWI) Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe revealed that incoming West Indies selectors on both the men’s and women’s side will be working under a system of “new and improved processes”.
Bascombe, a former Combined Campuses and Colleges and Windward Islands batter, made the disclosure in a news release thanking former West Indies captains Desmond Haynes and Ann Browne-John for their tenures as lead selectors on the men’s
and women’s side, respectively.
The contracts of Haynes, who was appointed to the role in January 2022, and Browne-John, who was appointed in October 2019, ended on June 30 and were not renewed.
CWI indicated in a news release yesterday that the organisation will “continue its quest for excellence in the selection system with ongoing restructuring efforts, including the implementation of new and improved processes”.
“We are committed to
CWI U19 bowls off in SVG
THECWI Rising Stars Under-19 Championship was expected to bowl off here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines yesterday, following a delay occasioned by the passage of Hurricane Beryl over the host countries, July 01, 2024.
The Championship was initially set to commence on July 2, with a threeday competition preceding a 50-over tournament. It will now proceed with a significantly adjusted format.
The adjusted format will feature four rounds of two-day matches and five rounds of 50-over matches, and the Championship is expected to conclude on July 31 as originally planned.
All affiliate countries of the CWI are down to participate and all the teams arrived here by Wednesday, July 10.
Matches will be played at the Arnos Vale 1, Sion Hill, Park Hill and Cumberland playing fields.
The first round of matches featured: Jamaica vs Windward at Arnos Vale, Leewards vs Guyana at Park Hill, and Barbados vs T&T at Sion Hill.
The remaining fixture for the 2-day segment reads as follows:
* July 14 — 15: Leeward vs Barbados at Arnos Vale, T&T vs Jamaica at Park Hill, and Windwards vs Guyana at Sion Hill.
* July 17 — 18: Barbados vs Guyana at Arnos Vale; Windwards vs T&T at Park Hill, and Jamaica vs Leewards at Cumberland.
* July 20 — 21: First place play-off at Arnos Vale, Third place play-off at Sion Hill, and Fifth place play-off at Park Hill.
a selection system that reflects the current needs of our cricketing landscape, which will give us the best chance to identify and develop talent across all levels,” Bascombe added in the news release.
“The new system will have an increased focus on scouting, depth charting, alignment with cricket strategy, and human resource management. These decisions were taken following careful considerations by the Cricket Development and Performance
Committee.”
CWI stated that the new system will take effect following ratification at the CWI directors’ meeting that will take place later this month.
In thanking Haynes and Browne-John, Bascombe said the two former West Indies captain made significant contributions to the sport in the Caribbean during their tenures.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr Haynes and Mrs BrowneJohn for their dedicated service as lead selectors,”
Bascombe said. “Their insights and commitment have been invaluable to our cricketing endeavours.”
The news release noted that the West Indies men’s and women’s teams have shown improvements in the world rankings during the tenure of Haynes and BrowneJohn and “CWI acknowledges the pivotal roles that both individuals have played in this achievement”.
(Source: Trinidad Express)
West Indies Rising Stars U-19 cricketer will be in action in SVG but will compete under a revised format.
Against the odds
IF THE WEST INDIES survived the second day of that first Test at Lords which started last Wednesday, that might be seen as something of an accomplishment. You don’t score 121 in the first day of a five-day match and expect to survive. Worst still, the opponents England on home turf knocked up 371 before the second day ended.
If Jayden Seales’ 4 for 77 is the most positive bowling peformance for the West Indies, indications are that a heavy defeat loomed in the shadows. Situations like those trigger alarm bells among supporters, and many of us will come up with reasons to heap scorn on the squad.
We continue to find ourselves in a dilemma. Fingers will point on Kraig Brathwaite. He seems to have lost any semblance a batting technique. That is putting his position as captain on the line. Having maintained a consistency of nonperformance, there is no justification for his place on the team.
Questions will surface as to who will replace him. Fans will not be to perturbed as to who that person will be. They only want to know that we are making efforts to improve.
The Administration has its part to play. It makes no sense sitting back and crying wolf. It is a question of facing the music and handling the crisis head on.
If it is a situation of desperation, then drastic measures have to be taken. We can’t just wallow in a state of confusion.
There must be some way we inspire a new generation and groom them to reestablish the Caribbean legacy. With the ICC T/20 out of the way, this region has to make an assessment of the situation and don’t take anything for granted.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines has an obligation to rise to the occasion. Someone, or indeed, more than one, have to ensure that cricket continues to be an avenue through which youngsters feel satisfied that their anxiety to advance are bolstered.
Dr Kishore Shallow can be proud of his role on the regional circuit. To be president of the area’s most prominent sporting entity is a pleasing story. He has to instill some confidence and a sense of purpose in the youth who are expected to shoulder their responsibility for our future stability.
Our Under-15, Under-19 and senior national squads have acquired a record of distasteful results.
The Under-19 West Indies championship has become something of a feature as far as St. Vincent and the Grenadines is concerned. The nation has to take advantage of this. But the rewards are not forthcoming.
There has to be a way of correcting the shortfalls in Vincentian cricket. Coaches have to take the matters in their hands, find the talent and nurture them.
School teachers, parents, and communities have to combine to make sure that cricket regains the place it held in the Caribbean. That will engender a sense of pride.
At the same time, youngsters can be assured decent standards of living. For cricket while costly, has the capacity to provide valuable foreign exchange.
TBPO football to get a new champion
ANEW CHAMPIONwill be crowned this Sunday when the Carib Beer Top Belair Progressive Organistion (TBPO) Football Nine-a-Side Football Competition closes at the Dauphine playing field.
Experience
One will face Walvaroo FC in the final which will be followed by a
presentation ceremony. Defending Champion — Grove Street Catalans, had to settle for a third place playoff.
A source from the organizing committee said the cash prizes for the top four teams have been increased this year. The
Experience One will be looking to go one step than they did last year.
JosephÊs up for Panam Sports Presidency
KEITH JOSEPH,
General Secretary of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC), has been nominated for the presidency of Panam Sports (officially Pan American Sports Organization).
Panam Sports is an international organization which represents the current 41 National Olympic Committees of the American continent.
As for what he will bring to the presidency if he is elected, Joseph, the current Second VicePresident of Panam Sports, promised “leadership and innovation”.
Joseph who is also the President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), sees his nomination as a “boost for the EnglishSpeaking Caribbean”.
He will know his fate when his nomination is voted on during the Panam Sports General Assembly in Paraguay, October 2-3, 2024.
The Assembly follows a meeting of the body’s Executive on October 01.
The new Executive
will be installed for the 2024-2028 quadrennial.
Joseph was nominated for the Presidency of Panam Sports/PASO in 2021 but later withdrew.
winner will receive $2,000.00; second place$1,000.00, third place$750.00 and fourth place - $500.00.
A collection will be made on Sunday towards raising funds to assist players who were affected by the passing of Hurricane Beryl. Twenty-one teams, an increase of five over 2023, divided into two groups, contested the 2024 competition, which commenced on April 28.
I.B.A. ALLEN
CANOC answers the call
THE CARIBBEAN ASSOCIATION OF NATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEES (CANOC) has answered the call to assist countries that sustained significant damage as a result of the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
In this regard, the President of CANOC - Keith Joseph informed that his organisation will be working through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
“The objective of the initial appeal is to raise 4 million Swiss Francs. CANOC has received numerous offers of assistance from members and other sporting organisations around the world. We are pleased to point them
to make their contributions to and through the IFRC, as every little bit helps,” Joseph said.
Sport organisations are intended to bring opportunities to the societies in which they are formed and with whose populations they interact. With only the Olympic Committees of Barbados, Grenada, Haiti, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Virgin Islands as CANOC members that have signed on to the Sport for Climate Action Framework, there is much work to be done.
CANOC’s Call to Action is not just for assistance through sport, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, but for all time, for the benefit of present and future generations.
Keith Joseph is looking to step up in the administrative hierarchy of Panam Sports.
Walvaroo FC are in search of their first TBPO football title.
BAND OF THE
BLONDIE BIRD REPEATS
BY DAYLE DASILVA
BLONDIE BIRD AND FRIENDS
continued where they left off in 2023 and repeated victory in the 2024 band of the Year competition.
They amassed 384 points with their 2024 presentation ‘Motherland’, to beat High Voltage Mas Band into second place, 374 points, with the presentation, ‘Westward Ho! Destination West Indies’. High Voltage had sat out the competition in 2023.
Nelson Bloc, celebrating its 40th year of producing mas, copped the bronze award (372 points) with the presentation ‘De Band Coming: The Ruby Jubilee’.
Mirage Production rounded off the top four with the presentation ‘The Painted Sky’ (364 points).
A total of 12 bands participated in this year’s ‘Band of the Year’ competition.
Energy Mas Band, making its second appearance in the competition was not judged. Among the participating Bands were: Leeward International with the presentation ‘Tribute to Fireman Hooper’; Melbourne Artisans — ‘Going Green’; Xtreme Fanatics — ‘It’s a Carnival Thing’; Verlene Ralph and the Professionals — ‘Bling’; Lynx Mas Band — ‘All Aboard! Caribbean Cruise Line’; Imagination — ‘What we Love to do’; Beautex International — ‘Vincy Mas 2024: Catalogue’.
Kingsley Collis and company impressed the judges with their use of colour, winning the ‘Best Use of Colour’ award, followed by Blondie Bird and Friends, Lynx Mas Band and Nelson Bloc.
Lynx impressed on the streets of Kingstown, winning the ‘Uptown Competition
AI REAL ESTATE
Afro Beat
Right:Spirit of Ashanti
followed by Mirage in second place, Blondie Bird and Friends — third and SVG Players with the presentation, ‘A glimpse of Brookly’ placing fourth. Players, who recently lost its leader Julian ‘Piling’ Pollard, won this year’s “Sections of the Bands’ competition with the portrayal ‘Mas on the Parkway’. The competition was pushed back to the night of the Dimanche Gras on July 7.
High Voltage, portraying the section ‘Grenada’ placed second with Imagination Mas Band’s ‘Enjoying the Moonlight’ taking third spot.
Rounding up the top four Bands in this competition was Nelson Bloc with the Section ‘Traditional’.
