THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 30-06-23 by TheVincentian Publishing

Top Left: Some of the 600 odd graduates engage in some ‘chatter’ before the formalities begin.

Continued on Page 3.

V News 3

Linton was shot in the head

GREGORY

BBO says thanks

I WRITE ON BEHALF OF THE BECKET BENEFIT ORGANIZATION(BBO) to express our heartfelt gratitude, for your kind financial support of our fund raising barbeque, for Mrs. Laverne Audain and Mr Palmore Young, dubbed “An Event For Joy And Sproddy aka Wounce”.

The event was very successful and we could not have done it without you and your family’s kind contribution.

Because of your support, Joy and Palmore can pay for some much needed therapy, home care and medication. On their behalf too, we say thank you!

In keeping with the BBO’s policy of transparency, the following is a brief account of the event’s financial transactions:

Monetary donations - $7,490.00(EC)

Profit from the barbeque- $3,260.15(EC)

Total - $10,750.15(EC)

With some promised additional donations, each of the two recipients was given a cheque for $5,670.00(EC).

There’s a story of the presentation of the cheques

in THE VINCENTIAN Newspaper of Friday 16th June, 2023. Thanks to the Vincentian! Again, we thank all of you and look forward to your continued kind support. Thank you too, Mr. and Mrs. Carlton Joseph, for your kind donation of the tent and the foldup tables, which were first used at the barbeque.

God’s richest blessings upon all of you!

Alston BECKET Cyrus

EDITOR’S Note: When was the last time a non-profit organization publicly shared details on a fund-raising event and thanked all concerned for their support?

To make demands of government and state-owned corporations/agencies to act with accountability and transparency is one thing, and a good thing. It’s another thing when we don’t practice what we demand/expect of others.

THE VINCENTIAN recognises the Becket Benefit Organization (BBO) for its demonstration of its preparedness to be accountable and transparent in how it conducts its business, mindful that the fulfilment of its mission rests, to a great degree, on the support of the public.

Air Canada to increase flights to AIA

Air Canada’s non-stop service to the AIA will resume Oct. 30.

SVGTA preparing for fall and winter visits

THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES TOURISM AUTHORITY (SVGTA) has issued important updates to the destination in advance of the busy fall and winter seasons.

The SVGTA said that on October 30, Air Canada will resume nonstop service to the location three times each week on Mondays,

Thursdays, and Fridays. Additionally, starting on December 11, the Air Canada service will increase to four times each week, with Tuesdays being added to the timetable through the end of the winter season.

Glenn Beache, CEO of the SVGTA, said, “We are very excited and looking forward to welcoming our Canadian friends this winter with the start of Air Canada’s weekly non-stop flights

starting Oct. 30, 2023.”

Beache also took the opportunity to report that two Bequia’s upscale hotels will shut their doors for the summer. The Bequia Beach Hotel and the Friendship Beach Hotel will close on June and reopen on October 13.

The 22-room private island getaway at Petit St. Vincent Resort in the southern Grenadines will likewise close on June 30 and reopen on November 1 after renovations.

LINTON, a Dominican who was the Caribbean Agricultural Research and development Institute (CARDI) representative in St. Vincent and the Grenadines since 2017, died from a single gunshot to the head.

This was confirmed by a postmortem report.

Linton’s partially decomposed body was discovered on Monday, June 19, in his blue Toyota Hilux, license plate number CD67, in the vicinity of the Kingstown Preparatory School (KPS).

The police made the discovery after they visited the scene on being alerted by a man, named unknown, that there was a dead body in a vehicle parked near the KPS.

Police confirmed last week that they had detained that man for questioning.

A reliable source told THE VINCENTIAN that Linton’s licensed firearm was, up to Wednesday, missing.

The Dominican, said to be 43 years old, resided at Glen.

CARDI confirmed that in recent times he had been involved in the implementation of the Regional Coconut and Sweet Potato projects in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Scott: ‘Build on what you have learned’

Scott wished for the passing out class that they would “seize opportunities for business generation and future study, so that you can aid in the process of continuing to transform our society.

He challenged them to accept that “You are game changers,” and in so doing to “..be the change you want to see in this country and in this world.”

The Director, though, expressed a concern for what he described as “a sense of entitlement” in the student population.

In response to that he said simply and clearly, “..this world owes you nothing.”

Yes, he urged the graduates to “work hard and make use of the opportunities available to you,” but in the same breath, cautioned them to “never live as if the world owes you these opportunities and you are entitled to gifts and favors…. Get up, get out, be you and make a difference.”

The 14th Graduation

This was the 14 Annual Graduation

Ceremony of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) and was held on Tuesday 27thJune, 2023, at Victoria park.

In the tradition of its carefully manicured exercises, the SVGCC passed out six hundred and eightythree (683) students this time around.

Those who graduated on Tuesday were representative of 43 graduates from the Division of Teacher Education (DTE); 221 from the Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DTVE); and 419 from Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies.

The 2023 Graduation ceremony was held under the theme: ‘Behind you, your memories Before you, your dreams Within you, All you need, Be You!’

In a brief address to the graduating class, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves assured the students that opportunities are available for them to pursue further and higher studies.

He indicated that $42M is set aside for those who want to enhance their education.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 . 3.

The Executive and core members of the BBO meet regularly at the R.C. Centre, Layou. Gregory Linton succumbed to a wound caused by a single shot. Continued from Frontpage. Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

SEVERALwitnesses have already testified for the Crown in the ongoing trial surrounding the January 22, 2022 shooting the death of truck driver, Joshua ‘Cabbage’ Pompey of O’Brien’s village, Georgetown.

Hanif Forbes, a 41-year-old mason of Spring Village, Georgetown, is on trial for the murder of Pompey, assaulting Pompey’s wife Lakeitha Harris-Pompey, causing her bodily harm, discharging a loaded firearm at Joshua Pompey with intent to injure, possession of a firearm without a license, and entering the home of Pompey’s wife and stealing one bottle of Gonsalves Black Wine valued EC$30, one bottle of Pure Heaven

nonalcoholic wine valued EC$25, and one bottle of Jamaican Brandy valued EC$35.

Pompey was reportedly shot and killed around 12:05 a.m. on January 22, 2022, while his wife, an auxiliary police officer, and was said to have been beaten shortly before midnight on January 21, that year.

The offenses of burglary, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and possession of a firearm without license, were reportedly committed around 11:40 p.m. on January 21, that year.

All five offenses are reported to have occurred at O’Brien’s Village and are said to have stemmed from the same incident.

Forbes has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is represented by attorney Ronald Marks.

Among the witnesses who testified for the Crown so far are: Crime Scene Investigator - Sergeant Elmore ‘Six’ Alexander: Surgical Pathologist — Dr. Ronald Child; Certified Digital Forensic Examiner — Sergeant Angello Duncan attached to the I.T. Department of the police force; and Harris-Pompey the widow of the deceased.

Up to press time, Thursday, HarrisPompey was still being crossexamined. The lead investigator Sergeant Malcolm ‘Firearm’ Alexander

was yet to testify. The Prosecuting team consists of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall and Crown Counsel Rene Simmonds.

A 12-member Jury comprised of 8 women and 4 men is hearing the matter, while Justice Brian Cottle presides.

Mason on trial for driver’s murder Prospect man on

road fatality charge

PROSPECTresident Roger Lavia has been charged in connection with a vehicular incident on June 21, which resulted in the death of Andrew McKie of Richmond Hill.

Lavia has been charged with, being the driver of motor vehicle TX422, caused McKie’s death by dangerous driving.

The incident reportedly occurred at Halifax Street, Kingstown while McKie was crossing the road.

Lavia was not required to plea to the

indictable charge when he appeared before Magistrate John Ballah at the Kingstown Magistrate Court on Wednesday.

He was granted $20,000, on condition that he surrender his travel documents.

The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Serious Offenses Court.

In a related matter, last week Wednesday, at the High Court, Corel ‘Papa Niceness’ Roberts was sentenced to one year, eight months and five days having been found guilty of causing the death of Aletha Dina Dover on January 6,2022, by dangerous driving.

Causing death by dangerous driving carries a maximum penalty of seven years.

Another teen on criminal charges

COLE OLIVER, an 18-yearold male who was wanted by the police in connection with a series of criminal offenses, was apprehended this week.

The Pole Yard, Arnos Vale resident has been charged with wounding Aaron Calral of Glen, with intent, possession of a firearm without a license, make and serial number unknown, and using a firearm to aid in the commission of an offense.

The offenses were reportedly committed at Glen on June 15, 2023.

Oliver was not required to plea when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday.

He was granted $12,000 bail with one surety, on the condition that he has no contact with the virtual complainant, surrender his travel documents, and report to the Questelles Police Station on Mondays and Thursdays between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. He was also placed on a curfew

between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. during which time he is to remain at his mother’s home at Clare Valley.

Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he is not to leave the state without the permission of the Serious Offenses Court or the High Court. The matter has been adjourned to September 12.

Oliver, for whom the RSVG Police Force had issued a wanted notice last week, was the second teenage boy to appear in Court on criminal charges during a period of a week.

On June 19, 18-year-old Jamel Baptiste of Rillan Hill was taken before the Serious Offense Court on charges of robbery, unlawful and malicious wounding, and inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Baptiste was not required to plea and was granted $6,000 with one surety, with similar conditions to that of Oliver, including a curfew. Both men were unrepresented.

Court V 4. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

Hanif Forbes has a number of charges stacked against him, including one for murder. Roger Lavia will have his case heard first in the serious Offences Court. Andrew McKie was wellknown and liked in his community and was not one to shy away from a political discussion. Cole Oliver was apprehended by the police after they issue a wanted notice for him.

Vincymas V

Vincy Mas begins today

THE FINAL10 days of Vincymas 2023 get underway today June 30th with the Calypso SemiFinals dubbed ‘Fantastic Friday’.

Twenty-two

Calypsonians will match their skills on the stage at the Victoria Park for a chance to be among ten who will progress to the finals on the night of Dimanche Gras on July 9, when they come up against the defending Calypso Monarch, Maxwell ‘Tajoe’ Francis.

According to Anthony Dennie, CDC Shows and Marketing Coordinator, patrons can expect to see some changes to the venue on the night with the addition of seating and drinking zones.

In addition to the 22 semi-finalists, there will be guest performances including one from the defending Monarch.

The following day, July 1, masqueraders from 12 bands will bring

alive the Junior Mas competition, at carnival City, Victoria park.

This year will feature a 13th Mas Band, ‘Energy’ which is expected to make its debut in Vincy Mas 2023, but according to the rules, will not be judged.

The junior masquerades will return to the streets of Kingstown for their traditional ‘jump-up’ which took a break last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The juniors maintain control of Victoria Park Monday July 2, with the Junior Pan competition where six bands will be vying for junior pan supremacy. They are: Symphonix, Bishop’s College Kingstown, Sion Hill Euphonium Sandy Bay Secondary, Elite Steel and Starlift Steel Orchestra.

The layout used at the launch of pan for Vincymas 2023 will

again be used, that is with the main stage and two other stages set up in order to facilitate a swift changeover of bands, Dennie explained.

On July 4, Carnival City welcomes the Junior soca artistes and calypsonians who will compete in the Junior Soca and Calypso Monarch competitions.

The seniors make their first appearance at Victoria Park on July 6, when ‘Steel and Glitter’ makes its return.

The ‘Steel Component’ is expected to feature 7 senior steel orchestras: Epic Sounds, Genesis, Southeast Steel Orchestra, Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra, Symphonix, Starlift Steel Orchestra and the Elite Steel Orchestra.

Ten Mas Bands will be represented in the ‘Sections of the Bands’ competition, making up the ‘Glitter Component’

of the night’s event.

Going into the final weekend of Vincymas, Soca lovers will have two nights of competition with the Ragga and Soca Monarch competitions, which will be linked with Evo.

Twelve artistes will do their best to dethrone reigning Ragga Soca Monarch Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper on Friday, July 7, and on July 8, fourteen Soca Artistes will again take on Hooper in the Soca Monarch competition.

The Dimanche Gras which follows on Sunday, July 9, will set 10 calypsonians against the defending Calypso Monarch, Tajoe, as well feature the return of the King and Queen of the Bands competition.

Each calypsonians will perform one song, a decision made based on the response from patrons.

Traditional J’Ouvert

bands make their return to the streets of Kingstown on Monday July 10 in addition to the usual J’Ouvert paint bands.

And Vincymas 2023 sees the return of several t-shirt bands for the Monday Road jump-up

on the evening of July 10. The festivities will end on July 11 when 12 bands will take to the stage at Victoria Park at Mardi Gras in the ‘Band of the Year’ competition, with a guest appearance by the band ‘Energy’.

Ragga/Soca Monarch finalists named

Dennis Bowman, Gregory ‘Pekos’ Cato, Shaunelle McKenzie, the trio McGaffrey ‘Loombay’ Medford, Kahn ‘Fligh’ Haynes and Brendon

‘Mac-I’ Saunders and Rayvonne ‘Reva’ Rodney.

would occur at the Heritage Square on June 23 where the public would be invited to come and witness the process to select the finalists take place.

promised. He added that the artistes would be encouraged to bring out

their supporters and in turn, members of the public will get the opportunity to get to

witness the judging process.

Stories: (DD)

THE FINALISTSin this year’s Ragga and Soca Monarch competitions were released earlier this week.

Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper will defend his crown against 12 artistes in the Ragga Soca Monarch competition on July 7.

And 14 will try their best to dethrone Hooper in the Soca Monarch competition on July 8.

The finalists for the Ragga competition are:

Hance John, Javid ‘JayR’ Rouse, Omarion ‘Marlo Benn’ Benn, Ozarie Matthews, Nasir ‘Nas03’ Primus, Ramon ‘Jose Juan’ Diaz, Jasper ‘Jasper YMC’ Alexander,

In the Soca Monarch category, the 14 selected include: Kemmy Christopher, Kencil ‘Dose Up’ Alexander, Omarion ‘Marlo Benn’ Benn, Shorn ‘Shorn Beats’ Nimblett/Kelvin ‘Double R’ Wilson and Enrique Marshall, Kahn ‘Fligh’ Haynes, Keith Currency, Zimbory ‘Ghaza’ Joseph, Kertis ‘Gully’ Marshall, Javis ‘Jay-R’ Rouse, Esron ‘Speilberg’ Spielbery, Samantha and Nadine Bryant (Sun Divas), Alpha ‘Stinger Nettle’ Allick, Ishatta ‘Shatta’ Da Silva and Kelvin ‘Killy’ Wilson.

The preliminaries

According to CDC officials, there were 45 entrants in the Ragga Soca competition and 55 in the Soca Monarch.

Ricardo Adams, Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation said that the finalists were decided on June 26 at the Victoria Park.

It was initially planned that the preliminary judging

Adams explained that very often in the past when it was done behind closed doors, members of the public said that they did not know the songs that were entered, while others questioned the decisions.

However, with the passage of Tropical Storm Brett, that idea had to be scrapped and the venue was shifted to the ‘Entice’ Bar at the Victoria Park.

And even though the preliminary round of judging had to compete with the rehearsal for the graduation ceremony for the St Vincent and Grenadines Community College, “People seemed to have had a very good time with it,” Adams said, adding that there were some artistes who were there who sang along to their music.

Meanwhile, Anthony Dennie Shows and Marketing Coordinator said that the new format was something that the CDC intended to adopt going forward.

“Come 2024, the preliminary judging is going to be a lime,” he

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 5.

Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper will not back down from defending both the Ragga and Soca Monarch crowns. Despite the withdrawal of some popular names from the competitions, the CDC is anticipating the usual overwhelming patronage of the Ragga and Soca Monarch competitions.

TS Bret passes: Damage assessment on the way

TOWARDS PROVIDING

SOCIAL SAFETY

MEASURESfor affected families, including children

and women, the relevant authorities moved quickly over the weekend to assess damage caused by

the passage of Tropical Storm Bret (TS Bret), last week Thursday, June 22, and Friday, June 23.

The assessment was conducted by the Ministry of National Mobilisation and Security. Eight teams were deployed in the North Central and North Windward area, and on the North Leeward side

of mainland St. Vincent.

Reports are that a number of coastal communities on the northeastern and northwestern sides of mainland St. Vincent were affected by storm surges, resulting in the evacuation of some residents to emergency shelters, as was the case in Colonaire.

Heavy showers, isolated thunderstorms and storm forced winds wrought damage to housing stock and agricultural cultivation (especially to tree crops, bananas and plantain) in Spring Village, Rose Bank, Rose Hall, Chateaubelair and Fitz Hughes on the Leeward side, and in Chester Cottage, Colonaire, Park Hill, Georgetown and Owia on the Windward side.

Renowned farmer/environmentalist Lennox Lampkin shared that he lost up to eighty holes of bananas.

The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) reported that during the height of the passage of TS Bret, some 36 emergency shelters (of a nationwide total of 141) were activated to accommodate 136 displaced persons.

Reports are that one house was totally destroyed during the passage of TS Bret. An undisclosed number of houses was damaged. At least one small craft was reported to have been washed away in Owia whose coastline and coastal residences sustained a barrage by storm forced seas, for an extended period.

There were, according to reports, anywhere between 3 to 6 inches of rainfall during the period beginning on Thursday when the Tropical Storm Warning was declared for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and around 11am on Friday when the all clear was given.

Some fifty percent of households across mainland St. Vincent was said to have suffered (electrical) power outages during the period concerned. Once the all clear was given, power was returned within

As usual during torrential rain and gusty winds, the bananas take little time in genuflecting to the forces – rains and gusty winds - of the tropical storm.

what some people describe as record time. Kudos to the workers of VINLEC.

Another Tropical Storm, Cindy (TS Cindy), formed quickly behind TS Bret, to record the first case of two storms in the tropical Atlantic in June since record keeping began in 1851, forecasters said on Friday, June 23.

TS Cindy took a northwestern path early in its formation thereby avoiding any appreciable presence in the Southern Caribbean. It dissipated on Sunday night as it continued on its northwestern path.

Natural Disaster V 6. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

Owia took the brunt of storm-forced seas and wind as Bret made its presence felt over mainland St. Vincent. The residences along the coast of Colonaire were overtaken by Sargassum (weed) which were rushed ashore by intense wave action. (Credit: Lennox Lampkin) This fruit crop tree in Rose Hall was no match for the gale force winds of TS Bret. (Credit: Lennox Lampkin) The Ital Shop outside Victoria Park was lucky to escape major damage when the flamboyant tree which covers it, lost one of its branches during the storm. The remains of one dwelling place after Bret was finished with it. (Credit: API)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 7.

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

The stranded Africans

MAYBE FOR THE FIRST TIME, World Refugee Day was given some focus here when Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in speaking with another news agency, referred to what he termed, ‘the hundreds of West Africans who have been stranded in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) since 2017...’

For the first time, the many Africans, whom we identify by their accents and/or dress as we pass them on our streets or interact with them in one way or the other, have been categorized as ‘stranded’; to mean that they have no means (immediate or otherwise) of financing their return to their respective countries of birth, the majority it appears being from Nigeria.

World Refugee Day ‘is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.’

Those who leave their countries seeking safety are known as refugees or asylum-seekers.

According to Dr. Gonslaves, in his conversation with the new agency, ‘the hundreds of stranded West Africans’ came to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for refuge and to go to school.’

And even though the Prime Minister might want to explain their (Africans’) current predicament as being the fallout of a change government in their home land, the Africans who came here in recent time in any significant numbers came here as registered students of offshore medical schools/offshore universities.

It appears from all indications, that the majority of those African students were registered with a particular ‘university’ here.

The bottom line is that they came as students, would have been granted status in accordance with that designation. They did not, as far as can be discerned, come in search of refuge, i.e. as refugees.

Whatever has transpired since then, it would appear that they are now categorized as refugees, as per the Prime Minister’s comment. Many of them, according to the PM, even

though many of those seemingly affected continue to rent rooms/accommodation from locals, have no means (money) to pay their way back home. Yet, in the face of what the Prime Minister would describe as not far from destitution, many of these Africans continue to ‘make a contribution’ by transacting business of one kind or the other, whether it be paying rent to a local or making purchases at supermarkets, markets, community shops and bars.

Now comes the Big Bang! The Prime Minister, in what he said is in keeping with his government’s effort to increase the country’s ‘active labour force,’ has invited these hundreds of stranded Africans, to regularize their status here by applying for residency and work permits, this allowing them to ‘legitimately join the labour force.

The way has already been paved for them as per the Prime Minister’s assessment of their situation.

In this regard, the Prime Minister speaks of this country being ‘underpopulated’; of the birth rate slowing down; the elderly being the fasting growing segment of the population. Hence, the need to ensure an active, qualified work force to meet current and future needs. One way of ensuring this, it seems, is to do it artificially.

So while it is that as an open and free society which respects the value of human life and encourage the wellbeing of all peoples within and without our boundaries, we must not think for one moment that the motivation for inviting these stranded Africans is singularly in fulfilment of those virtues.

We cannot be faulted for surmising that given the indications of a breeze of change in the mood of the electorate, that padding the society, the electorate, with persons who will feel obligated to those who granted them a lifeline, could well be the underlying intention of the government. We are not saying it is but merely that given the circumstances, this cannot be ruled out.

We welcome the Africans in need as we have welcomed the Cubans as professionals delivering service in both the private and public sectors.

In so doing, we would not want to think that our welcoming arms serve, by extension, the purpose of a particular agenda.

Food Security

SINCE THE WAR between Russia and Ukraine began, the new buzzword worldwide has become food security. We are told, that numerous African nations and the Third World, in general, will suffer excessive inflation on essential food items. Therefore, it is not uncommon to hear various governments and those in opposition begin a conversation about what they mean when they say food security. Our own Minister of Agriculture has been busy discussing “food security,” among other things, for years. One thing we could say about the Minister of Agriculture is that he is never short on ideas regarding his portfolio of services. One of his most recent bold statements is that we will reduce food imports by 25% by 2025. Since that glorious day, we have not seen any signs or initiatives to actualize that statement.

From my vantage point, “Food Security” is too important a vision to try and do it alone. However, as we are trying to develop a policy, our Prime Minister (PM) does not think working with the opposition is possible or necessary. We must create a policy that will transcend political parties. Not many times will you see me referring to examples from Israel for guidance, but this time I am willing to point to them as an example of a policy that transcends political parties that works. After 50 years of deliberate planning, and by-party commitment, they are one of the few nations that can declare themselves entirely food secure.

We need an agricultural policy encompassing a holistic approach and incorporating regulations, legislation, and other aspects to assist the farmers who have not gotten the attention they deserve for a long time. We need a policy that will transcend successive governments. It should be a national pride thing. A successful food security effort will also bolster our economy in a way that touches affected people’s lives.

How do we do that locally: Improve the network of feeder roads to allow for safe and reliable transportation from farm to market. The question on some minds is how we will pay for the initiative. Where will we get the money? What current expenditure will we cut to cover this new cost? Well, I will speak the unspeakable. I think we should increase the current vehicle license fees to collect an average of one hundred dollars per vehicle or three million dollars per year. These funds should

then be dedicated toward a feeder road programme. We cannot support our farmers if we cannot reach them or if they cannot get their goods quickly and safely to market.

We must develop a reliable and safe water system to grow crops and feed our livestock. Currently, all our surface water is controlled by the Central Water and Sewage Authority; maybe they could create a subsidiary organization to manage irrigation for agricultural purposes. Many small farmers cannot access enough clean water for their crops and livestock, making production difficult and risky.

We must find a way for small farmers to overcome the challenge of not having access to bank loans because they don’t qualify due to a lack of collateral assets like land titles. Many small farmers have not had formal or extensive education that would help them improve agricultural production and become more competitive in markets. We must develop the appropriate agricultural education tailored to our local farmers.

My interaction with farmers over the years suggests that a zero-tolerance approach to combat praedial larceny must be adopted. Maybe we should consider a special court to deal with these predictors.

Undoubtedly, the agriculture sector is an essential part of our economy in SVG. However, as small as most of our farms are, they also need more than the family can provide to make them efficient and successful. To this end, farm workers should be paid more for a fair day’s work. Fifty dollars a day (four hours) is insufficient to develop a reliable pool of workers.

Unlike larger farming businesses, some small farmers cannot access the most advanced technology and information to maximize yields. It is probably fair to say that most small farmers make a profit for each crop planted each season; however, due to the size of farms and the changing climate conditions we are experiencing, making a decent living year over year is becoming more difficult. As the climate conditions fluctuate in the coming years, our small farmers will continue to be, at best, an informal part of our economy and are not likely to play a significant role in our food security.

Horatio.

8. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN Views V

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

DonÊt trade your vote

I HAVE noted that some of your recent editorials have sought to address what we ought to be demanding from our politicians, especially as we move closer to another general election.

The ULP is widely considered a national party with its core support coming from people across the 15 constituencies. The party has not only built a structure and machinery that it can call into action when necessary, but it seems to have built for itself a safe source of campaign funding.

We cannot say without some hesitation anything similar about the NDP. To be honest, it has not demonstrated anything akin to it being a mass-based party. It does, however, like the ULP, seems to have identified its own source of campaign funding.

As it is at this juncture, the ULP is unlikely to make any significant changes to a structure that has served it well for years thereby consolidating its loyal base of party supporters.

The NDP, on the other hand, may just have to rethink its strategy, given its shortcomings of a workable structure.

That said, I am not advocating blind support for any political entity, but we must stop trading our votes for meagre rewards.

As a community, i.e., the electorate, we need to demand that anyone seeking our support must agree to terms and conditions that address the issue of economic opportunities for all the people and to create economic wealth within our community.

Trevor Bacchus, SVG/UK

WI need to bowl better

AS I WRITE THIS, (Tuesday, 27th June) the West Indies has finished in third position with 4 points from 4 matches in Group A of the qualifying round. In those 4 matches there are two losses — to Zimbabwe and the Netherlands.

As I see it, there is still hope for us getting into the finals. We are into the Big Six, we need to take one of the two top positions in this round.

But to do so, there must be a turnaround in our bowling and our catching. We cannot complain about our batting. In both losses and in those we won, we put up good totals and a number of batsmen showed their mettle with Pooran coming good with two centuries so far.

It is the bowling that I am worried about. Our bowlers have not been able to bowl out or restrict competitors like Zimbabwe so unless we show some marked improvement, I fear that our bowlers will not fare well against the might of the Aussies and Indians, just to pick two of the finalists from out the hat.

The bowling department has to be of concern to Coach Sammy who, I am certain, has already brought this to those concerned. Maybe, we’ll see some changes to the bowling line-up. Given how things have gone so far, we have nothing to lose if Coach Sammy decided to shake up the bowling attack.

Charles, Edinboro

Black people dollars

I RECENTLY came across a very interesting concept. It is referred to as “Black Dollars Matters”.

From what I gathered, the concept, which has now grown into a movement, originated in the USA but has since spread to the Caribbean, like Trinidad and Jamaica.

And the way I understand it is that, it is a movement that aims to promote economic empowerment within the black community. It is, apparently, all about creating the opportunity for black-owned businesses to “gain more visibility and support”.

Now this is especially interesting to me as a born and bred Vincentian who grew up in Kingstown. I am certain I am not the only one who has noticed the decline of black-owned businesses in St. Vincent. I mean, Mr. Editor, there is no more McConnie Yammie, there is no more R. N. Eustace and Sons, R.H. Charles, Baynes Bros, the Hadaway Stores and Tailoring Emporiums like A.C. Cyrus, Gayle de Shong, Burgin’s Tailoring, for example. I am certain if I spend a little more time reflecting, I’ll come up with some more names.

Historically, blackowned businesses in the Caribbean and in St. Vincent have always faced barriers. In SVG, it was difficult to match the might of the Gills, Hazells, Laynes, Veiras, etc.

Sure, we have seen the ‘rise’ of O. T. Mayers

but he is the exception to the rule.

There is no disputing that many black Vincentians who sought to ‘go into business’ would have had limited access to capital, especially from the mainstream banks of the day, and may well have faced other discriminatory practices encouraged by the ruling business class.

I understand the “Black Dollars Movement” as encouraging spending black dollars within black-owned businesses, so as to create a more equitable economic landscape. This is not meant in any way to discourage black people from spending their money otherwise. It is

merely a call for black people to consider spending a little more in black-owned business.

Remember, when we spend more money in black-owned businesses, it has the potential to build if not strengthen a sense of community among black people.

Overall, I see this “Black Dollars Matter” movement as a good thing since it is a movement aimed at promoting economic empowerment and community building among black people in the Caribbean.

Perhaps we need to start a “Black Dollars Movement” here in SVG.

And as I inferred earlier, this is not an attack on any non-white owned or foreign-owned

businesses in SVG. It is merely a call for black people to wake up to their potential. Thanks, Mr. Editor for the space.

Williams, M.

Burning garbage emitting poisonous fumes

FROM TIMEto time, neighbors burn garbage which emits poisonous fumes. They think that they are cleaning up, but they are making a bigger mess. The poisonous gases escape into the air and they may be breathed in directly. When it rains, these poisons may dissolve in the water and enter our storage tanks. When we drink this water, the poisons may become the causative agent for

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* Are we into the carnival season? Why is the place ‘so dead’? Are we awaiting the arrival of foreign-based nationals to ‘lively up de place’?

* Do those soca artistes who have withdrawn from this year’s Soca Monarch Competition feel that if the CDC can’t raise prize money in 2023 that it will be able to do so in 2024?

* Were some people seeking services that are usually available at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital referred to a private entity? Is it that the services are not (temporarily?) available at the hospital or that the hospital is over-burdened?

* Does the NDP have a few decisions to make with respect to its candidates for the next general election? Does this include the constituencies of North Leeward, South Windward and East St. George?

* Have the West Indies senior men’s cricket teams become the laughing stocks of the cricketing world?

cancer, and kidney disease. Local doctors are unable to find the reason for the increase of these diseases among the population. People are dying earlier than usual.

Many pieces of clothing are made using synthetic materials. Additionally, plastic products are on the increase. The ban on plastics seems to have expired as plastics are used widely. When these synthetic clothing and plastics are burned, many poisonous gases are produced. Some people are superstitious believing that they can be used for obeah, and choose to burn clothing rather than disposing of them in the garbage.

The choice to burn plastics, and synthetic clothing could be due to lack of knowledge and understanding of the dangers involved. Law makers and enforcers are guilty of this too since they show little interest in addressing this problem. Since responsible agents demonstrate irresponsibility, other methods of helping to resolve the problem must be deployed. These include direct appeal and if this fails, publicity. Burning garbage that emits noxious fumes is hazardous to humans and should not be practiced.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 9. Letters V

A stable party makes for a stable government

Introduction

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTYhas been in office since March 28, 2001 which means that the party celebrated 22 years of unbroken governance in this country.

This is by any index a remarkable accomplishment when one considers the fact that it’s the citizens of this country that voted in 5 consecutive elections to elect the ULP as the party of governance. Prior to this, the current parliamentary opposition, the NDP has the longest unbroken streak of approximately 17 years, from winning 4 elections. The 17-year tenure of the NDP administration was marred by scandals and resignations of various Cabinet members, and the absence of any real structure in terms of leadership was evident. While on paper there may have existed a hierarchical structure of the party, this was not evident in reality and it lack the structure of leadership spilled over in government. One just had to remember the Ottley Hall project negotiation was conducted and the fallout that occurred because of the lack of oversight by a Parliament that didn’t feel accountable to the people, especially since there was no opposition between 1989 and 1984. Imagine having a situation where multiple Attorney’s Generals were forced to resign under clouds of scandals and controversy. The very famous “clipping of the wings” metaphorically of Billy Burton is also memorable to the point where he left the party and ran independent, subsequently publicly embarrassed himself in asking forgiveness of the former prime minister. The stewardship of the ULP, is the complete opposite to that which was just outlined under the NDP, with our tenure being one characterized by strong leadership, stability that have together resulted in the successful execution of the most ambitious development agenda at home and the raising of the profile of our country globally.

Stable leadership makes the difference

After the 1998 elections where the ULP was defeated by a 7-8 margin even though they received more than 5000 votes over the NDP’s total or 55% of the votes cast, there was a change in leadership of the ULP. Our now deceased Comrade Vincent Beach decided that he had given all that he could have in terms of the top leadership position and decided to throw his support behind Comrade Ralph, and so did the majority of the delegates at the Convention in December of 1998. Comrade Ralph’s election to leadership made a significant difference as along with other elected officers including Comrade Louis Straker as deputy political leader ushered in a new dawn for the ULP. The slate of candidates for that 2001 elections was rightfully referred to as a dream team, consisting of professionals from varying fields including law, medicine, education, and banking. Once elected, the team that formed the Cabinet settled down quickly and began the implementation of the very ambitious agenda that sparked a period of unprecedented development in this country. The leadership provided by Comrade Ralph as political leader and Prime Minister shows evidence of his experience, his wisdom, his ability to

draw out the best of those with whom he works and very importantly, his ability to inspire others.

The leadership of Comrade Ralph of the ULP and of the government that it forms, stands out for its stability over the years and the very seamless way our government functions. Transitions have been managed quite well, as is evident with the way our party refreshes the slate of candidates at election cycles with elected members and caretakers making way for new ones to step forward and continue the work. There is always fierce competition with potential candidates coming forward expressing willingness to serve, but this process is never allowed to create contention and acrimony among comrades; instead wisdom, experience, and common sense are always allowed to prevail, making way for resolutions in the best interest of the party and the country. This stability of the ULP as an organization can be seen in the ULP in government, hence over the last 22 years, we have not seen a resignation of any cabinet member over corruption scandals or any of the issues of ill-discipline and misbehaviour in public office that once characterized governance under the NDP are truly a thing of the past. Our government is stable, working in the best interest of our country under the wise and experienced leadership of Comrade Ralph.

The future in safe hands

Over the next two and a half years and into the 2025 General Elections, our party and our government will continue to be served with the stable leadership of Comrade Ralph at the helm. What has been happening within the party and our government during our Comrade’s tenure of leadership is the preparation of the new dispensation of leaders who will carry the work forward and ensure the continued development of SVG. Already we are bearing witness to the mature leadership provided in Agriculture, Fisheries, etc. by Comrade Saboto, in Education by Comrade Curtis, Finance and Economic Planning by Comrade Camillo, the excellent growth and developing leadership of Comrades Carlos and Orando, who are serving in Cabinet for just two and a half years, but are definitely standing out as their performances speak for themselves. The experience that our young Cabinet ministers are gaining, and the wisdom and leadership imparted by Comrade Ralph gives our nation the confidence that the future is in safe hands. No doubt, when the time comes for our party to decide on officers for party leadership, this process will be properly managed and will produce the best outcome for our party and our country and our Comrades will rally in support of those elected to positions of leadership. The ULP understands that a house divided will never stand, therefore we will remain united in purpose, in building a united stable organization, that will continue to lead SVG beyond 2025, within the mandate given by the citizens of this country. The ULP is a stable organization, with stable leadership and our country has benefitted from this stability over the last 22 years, with a stable government, performing the work of lifting SVG higher.

NDP will fix problems in the educational system

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONSacross St. Vincent and the Grenadines are presently hosting their annual graduations. It is an exciting time for students, teachers and parents. As students exit their educational institutions, they are also preparing to enter new ones when the school year begins in September. For students who have graduated from the Community College, some will be pursing higher education while others will be entering the job market. The New Democratic Party (NDP) wishes them well.

While the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government continues to boast about its ‘education revolution’, there are serious problems that exist in the educational system that need to be fixed. Education should cater to the developmental needs of a country. This government has failed to ensure that it is so. For instance, we heard from the Prime Minister recently that the country does not have certified skilled personnel in certain areas. It means that the educational system has failed. This is so because the government did not put in place the necessary instrument to facilitate the implementation of the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ).

The CVQ is part of the process of achieving certified skilled workers, promoted by the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). This CARICOM initiative was established in 2007, but it was recently more than a decade later that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has granted approval to offer CVQ. While other CARICOM countries have been offering CVQ’s at levels 1 & 2 with much success at the secondary school level, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has in effect been offering limited skills training to a small number of out-of-school youths. After twenty-two (22) years in power, Prime Minister Gonsalves would lament that there are not enough skilled tradespersons to take up jobs in our construction industry and that despite high unemployment here, the government is asked to allow foreign workers to take jobs in hotel construction.

Also, the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has failed a significant number of students. We have a high repetition and dropout rate. In comparison to the other countries in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), St. Vincent and the Grenadines has the highest repeaters and dropouts at the primary and secondary levels. For example, from the academic year 2010-2011 to 2020-2021, two thousand, six hundred and twenty eight (2628) students have dropped out of secondary schools. We must cater to the diverse needs of students by providing programs that engage students and motivate them to complete secondary school.

There are also many learning difficulties, which are not detected at an early stage. We have no system to identify those students who may have a specific learning difficulty. Without targeted remedial education, some children may fall behind their peers in numeracy and literacy. Too many of our students still enter secondary schools who are unable to read at the required level. The analysis of the National Test for Grades 2 and 4 gives us a perfect picture of how students are performing at the primary level. The Prime Minister should talk more about the results of that test. And in 2022, the pass rate

for CSEC was 66.55%, in an ‘education revolution’.

It is accepted that a good education provides better options for young people and is an effective way to combat crime and other anti-social behaviour. The escalation in violent crime, especially gun-related killings, demands urgent action from the government to fix our failing education system so that it can provide positive options and more opportunities for our young people. The country needs less rhetoric from the Prime Minister and the government and more constructive action.

Our plan

President of the NDP, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, has outlined the following strategies. He said, his party will:

* “Ensure that technical and vocational education is well-integrated within the education system so that every child has the opportunity for a comprehensive education;

* Ensure competency-based curricula linked to the CVQ framework in all secondary schools and other suitable settings in the workplace and the wider community;

* Establish a qualification framework that enables learners to move seamlessly between “academic” and vocational qualifications in formal and informal educational settings;

* Increase opportunities for skills development and lifelong learning through vigorous and well-managed continuing education programs.

In addition to technical and vocational programs, we must teach agriculture in all primary and secondary schools. Further, to develop the whole person and promote our culture, Art, Music, Dance and other forms of cultural expression must be regarded not merely as optional courses but as essential components of a modern education. So, they must be taught at all levels and in all schools. Education should not be an unaffordable burden for families. The rising cost of living continues to hurt families. At this time, schoolbooks, uniforms, bus fares, and daily lunches cut deeply into family budgets. We believe that VAT should be reduced to lower living costs for everyone.

Moreover, registration fees for secondary schools are too much. At a time when families are facing pressures across the board, we believe registration fees should be eliminated. CSEC and CAPE subjects must be paid by the state. Parents and students should not have to go begging friends and strangers for money to pay for their subjects. Having admitted all students to secondary school and encouraged them along the way, it makes good sense to complete the process by paying for their exams. And, for too many families, the joy of securing a place at university is dampened by the fear of expensive student loans. Our student loan rates are among the highest in the region. We have a plan to cut those rates in half to 4.5%.”

The NDP is committed to provide an educational system that caters for the development of the country, which will equip our young people for the job market with the education, skills and training for successful careers, and to establish their own businesses.

10. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN Views V

A Strong Man’s Tears

“Heaven knows we need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of the earth, overlying our hard hearts. I was better after I had cried than before–more sorry, more aware of my own ingratitude, more gentle.” – Charles Dickens (1812-1870), English writer and social critic.

MANY SOCIETIES SOCIALIZE THEIR BOYS to be “tough” - holding in their emotions and not showing their feelings. Martin Robb, a senior lecturer at The Open University, and Sandy Ruxton, an honorary research fellow at the law school at the University of Liverpool, shared insights on this in an article titled “Act Tough and Hide Weakness: Research Reveals Pressure Young Men Are Under”. The article was published in The Conversation on 17th March 2017 and analyzed research findings in relation to research that had been conducted among 18 to 30-year-old males in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Mexico. Their research revealed that, “A rigid construct of how ‘real’ men are supposed to behave leaves many feeling trapped …”. Through information gathered from surveys and focus groups, they noted that, “Violence is still a feature of many young men’s lives, with some regarding it as a way of maintaining status and an inevitable part of becoming a man.” While we would be unwise to conclude that these are general feelings throughout the society, we would be naive to neglect to consider that even within our Caribbean culture there may be sub-cultures where such thoughts are entertained and may even flourish.

The thoughts expressed in the preceding paragraph invite us to consider conducting research to ascertain how our Caribbean men (especially our young men) feel in relation to showing emotions. It is generally felt that our Caribbean men are socialized to believe that they are considered “weak” or “sissy” if they express their feelings. However, research has shown that suppressing feelings (alexithymia) can result in medical problems and serious/complicated relationship issues.

We may have heard to expression that, “Real men don’t cry.” Our society needs to dispel the view that men should hold back their tears and emotions. There is nothing weak about a man shedding tears when hurt or grieving. It is a normal/natural way of dealing with trauma. Bottling up emotions and refusing to ventilate when facing hurts could have catastrophic mental and emotional consequences. This is true for both genders. Therefore, when a man cries it should not be perceived that he is unable to deal with life. The converse is true, it is a practical way of dealing with life’s traumas.

Research suggests that emotional tears cause the release of dopamine, the feel-good hormone. A strong man’s tears should therefore be perceived as a strength, not a weakness. As controversial as this may seem to some, the time is probably right for greater public discourse (i.e., through articles like this, blogs, etc.) that will enable us as a society to encourage our strong men to be unafraid to speak of and show emotions.

Psychotherapist Sam Louie, in a January 2016 publication titled, “Real Men Cry”, noted that several of his

male clients often share painful aspects of their childhood — episodes of childhood trauma that impact their lives decades after they occurred. He noted that, “It’s heart-wrenching to see so many men tell me they feel weak, shameful, and inadequate for having feelings of sadness, pain, and disappointment. All their lives they were told, ‘Real men don’t cry,’ yet studies show how crying is a way for the body to release toxins from the body.”

Louie noted that, from a physiological perspective, humans secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) when stressed. He refers to observations shared by Dr. Jodi DeLuca, a neuropsychologist at Tampa General Hospital in Florida, USA, who indicates that tears are a healthy form of seeking to deal with stress and its negative impact on the body. Dr. DeLuca continued by noting that, if suppressed, it could cause a number of physical symptoms known clinically as somatoform disorders (i.e., psychological/relational issues that manifest themselves as physical symptoms). She further noted that “the symptoms can involve several different organs yet remain perplexing to clients as there’s no physical causation.” She reported that patients may report a combination of acute pain, muscle aches/soreness, neurological problems, gastrointestinal complaints, and sexual symptoms/issues. She noted that, in addition, the suppressing of emotions could also lead to a host of addictions and mental health issues such as eating disorders, alcoholism, drug abuse, marijuana dependency, depression, and anxiety.

Based on the foregoing, we should avoid judging or shaming men (and boys) when they cry. It is a normal/healthy way of seeking to deal with hurt/trauma. It is so very important to be able to ventilate … even if it takes on the appearance of being vulnerable. It must not be perceived as being weak. It is a valuable God-gifted coping mechanism. Difficulties will arise. Tears will be shed. Peter Marshall (born 1926), the American former game show host and entertainer, reminds us that, “When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure.” Those pressures may test us to the core. Tears may be shed but they will strengthen (not weaken) our resolve. We will be reminded that tough times never last but tough people do. We will strengthen our tenacity and regain focus and fortitude as we reflect on the wisdom of John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), the 35th President of the United States of America, when he beckoned us, “Do not pray for easy living. Pray for stronger men.” Sometimes these strong men may need to shed tears to process emotions and to diffuse/dismantle otherwise debilitating experiences.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to

St. Vincent, Trinidad and Bacchanal

WE ARE IN the carnival season. By next week carnival fever should be higher than ever. However, the Vincentians claim that we have the hottest festival in the region is pure marketing hot air. The Vincent weather may be hot, humid and rainy around this time of year, but anyone who experienced Carnival in Trinidad knows that our southern neighbour is the regional capital of Steelpan, calypso, Carnival and bacchanal. We Vincies love we bacchanal too.

For some reason, yet unexplained, this carnival appears low-keyed. The carnival launch last month was a total bust. The Ragga and power soca semifinals were scaled down to a bar event. Zion I, notwithstanding, the Calypso tents had none of the rave and verve of old. Look for the topical essays sung by songbirds Shanelle Mc Kensie and Fya Empress to outpace true calypso composition and rendition by I Reality, Sulle, Abijah and Man Sick in the race for the monarch.

The judges say they could sing as if Calypso is only about the ability to sing. It is time the judges recognise that calypso is much more than a song. The ideal Calypso is a mirror on society. It is a protest and commentary about the perceived ills among us. We need to return to our roots to save the art and preserve the culture.

Talking about protests and ills. By now, we ought to know politicians don’t love the cultural art form of calypso. Opposition politicians pretend to love Calypso. They lift the protest songs to the high heavens. They and their supporters come to the tent in droves to hear biting commentary about the powers that be. Put them in control, and they sing a different tune. They have no interest in protest. In power, the governing political elite stifles the art form and places obstacles in the way of genuine calypso bards.

In Trinidad, the calypso art form is taken much more seriously. Carnival is taken more seriously. A few years ago, a calypsonian went to court to assert his right to be in the calypso finals. He lost, but he was prepared to fight for his right.

It’s for this reason we celebrate the effort of Chewalee, Magikal, Grabba, Pixels and Dime et al. for more recognition and fees. However, these artists must understand they cannot be depending on CDC or carnival to make or break their efforts for advancement. They don’t have to look far. Becket, Winston Soso, Scorcher, Skinny Fabulous and Fireman make far more money outside of SVG than they ever did performing in CDCorganised events.

Meanwhile, Trinidad remains a real place. Abijah crows that St Vincent is not. You could do many things in Trinidad and get away with it. But there, as the ancients say, ‘the moon runs until day catch um.’ High state officials are reined in quite often. Who can forget 2006 when former prime minister Basdeo Pandey and former Chief Justice Satnarine Sharma were jailed in the twin-island republic?

Justice Sharma was accused of trying to assist Panday, who was sentenced to two years in jail. When Sharma was arrested, he resisted the charge on the ground that he was a sitting justice. The matter was decided when the Privy Council unanimously

ruled that Justice Sharma could be arrested and prosecuted on the obstruction of justice charges.

We have a bacchanal too. Unfortunately, we have not yet reached that level of ‘high mas.’ Leaders and other high government officials are accused of high crimes and misdemeanours. Drugs disappear from police custody, and leaders are accused of drug peddling, money laundering, and amassing property their salaries can ill afford; insider trading and influence peddling are rife, yet apart from the minor public outrage, there is neither investigation, criminal charges or sanction, suspension or dismissals.

The political class remains untouchable. The calypsonians who attempt to spotlight the evil are either way over the top as Zion I was this year or failed to get the judges’ nod. As De Man Age told us more than 40 decades ago, this society needs a spectacle. It will help us to see some of the evils. Because who cares about the hungry children? Who Cares? Is we have to care bout we!

When Mighty Shelly sang ‘Big Jobs,’ his target was decision-makers who granted all important jobs to foreigners. Today our calypsonians could finger party hacks who are square pegs in round holes who clog the police, public service and the teaching profession.

Last Tuesday, a judge in Trinidad ruled that police officers are expected to be politically neutral. Justice Robin Mohammed, in his decision, said, ‘Citizens are entitled to expect that police officers who accepted the duty and responsibility to protect and serve them will do so in a neutral and apolitical lens. It is for this reason that a police officer, regardless of rank, must maintain an appearance of impartiality, especially in the public domain, to preserve public confidence and avoid public disorder in society.’

Contrast this judicial opinion with what passes for policing in SVG. There was a time when the overwhelming majority of the police’s high command was from the prime minister’s constituency. Police officers flagrantly display their red party colours. Some actively promote partisan political issues on social media. Others have spied that a ticket to promotion is to go hard at the opposition on Facebook. A solid calypso could berate all those choosing to act rather than perform top-class duties to the state.

The DPP, police commissioner, chairpersons of boards and CEOs of statutory corporations can all be accused of acting. Listen to our PM in parliament or on radio, and it’s clear that he, too, is acting. But then again, As Abijah says, St Vincent is not a real place.

Part of the reason for a reversal in the quality of our carnival is that carnival has been reduced to a big fete. We are no longer concerned with mas, music and calypso. We have gone commercial. Our only desire is to exploit the carnival.

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

julesferdinand@gmail.com THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 11. Views V

The UWI: ÂROOTED, READY and RISINGÊ

THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES(The UWI) is this year celebrating the 75th anniversary of its founding, under the theme “UWI at 75. Rooted. Ready. Rising”.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines was involved in this enterprise from the start with the enrolment of the 1949 Island Scholar Ken Antrobus in the first

cohort of medical students, graduating eventually as a Medical Doctor.

Since that time and over the three generations of The University’s existence, thousands of Vincentians have graduated from the institution. They can be found at all levels and spheres of activity — government, medicine, education, law among others.

Evidence that The UWI is “rooted” in St. Vincent and the Grenadines can be found in the fact that there is at least one (Caribbean) family, perhaps among many, which embodies the UWI’s transgenerational reach, by having at least one graduate in each generation to date. That family is that of Claude and the late Barbara Samuel of Hope, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as follows.

First Executive Director of the National Provident Fund (NPF), 1970, now NIS, in conjunction with his substantive post at the Agricultural Bank; seconded to the Caribbean Development Bank as an Economist (1973) but recalled 8 months later to take up post of Financial Secretary acting; 1975 assumed duties as a Permanent Secretary and in 1976 assigned duties related to the establishment of the National Commercial Bank (now Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines) and became its first General Manager, 1977. (The NCB was set up largely on the basis of recommendations made in a paper that Mr. Samuel had submitted to the Administrator in 1967 (10 years earlier) on his return from university.)

First GenerationClaude C. Samuel

• ex-St. Vincent Grammar School;

• UWI 1967 — BSc (Econ);

• Civil Servant 1954 — 1986;

• Career highlights — First Manager Agricultural and Cooperative Bank (1969);

1997 FRCS (England);

• Currently Renal Transplant Surgeon in the Ministry of Health, Trinidad and Tobago.

Second Generation (a)Dr. Malcolm Samuel

• ex-St.Vincent Grammar School — Island Scholar 1978;

• UWI 1982 MB, BS;”

Second Generation (b)Herbert ‘Haz’ Samuel

• ex-St.Vincent Grammar School. UWI B.Sc (Industrial Engineering) 1982. ANSA McAL Laureate 2015 -Entrepreneurship.

• Currently Consultant Project Coordinator, Grenada Geothermal Energy Development Project since 2018.

Third GenerationDr. Julian J. Samuel

• ex-Harrison College, Barbados;

• UWI 2011, MB, BS (1st Class Honours;

• Currently a Forensic Pathologist in New York City and featured in this newspaper on page 13 of the Friday 24th February, 2023 edition.

The Samuel family is but one living example of how the impact of The UWI has been transgenerational. There no telling if/when the impact will transcend to another generation of this family or even another.

For after all is said and done, The UWI is rooted in the generations that it has served and nurtured, and is poised to continue to rise.

12. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN Tribute V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 13.

Excellence: David not ÂDunnÊ yet

WHEN IT COMES TO EXCELLENCE,David Dunn is an example.

He copped the Divisional Award Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Education (CAPE), as a student of the Division of Arts. Science and General Studies, when the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College held its 14th Graduation ceremony last Tuesday afternoon.

Dunn took awards in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

He confessed his love for Science and thanked the SVGCC for providing him with the foundation to pursue a career in medical physics.

“I am grateful to have had lecturers who were dedicated to ensuring that we had ample resources for learning and to build a solid foundation in our areas of study,” Dunn stated.

He commended lecturers for tolerating his questions “before, during and after classes.”

Dunn noted the bond with colleagues and that “we helped each other to overcome what felt like a never-ending syllabus, with neverending work and never-ending exams.”

Dunn pointed to Newton’s three laws of motion: An object in motion remains in motion, an object at rest remains at rest unless acted upon by external forces: the rate of change of momentum is directly proportional to the force applied and acts in the direction of the force: and, for every action force, there is an equal and opposite reaction force.

Dunn concedes that “success is based on the hard work and effort you put in” and “believing you can do it and having the motivation to get it done.”

Johnson tough with the going

SYLVORNE JOHNSONaims to be an inspirational teacher, and she is a step closer. She received the Award for Excellence for the Division of Teacher Education.

Sylvorne is grateful to lecturers who eased frustrations.

One with faith in the Almighty, Sylvorne admitted that the “harder the semester, the better I worked.” Solidarity with other teachers relieved the burden, she admitted.

It was burning the midnight oil for Sylvorne. She is thankful for the blessings and outlines that “success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, sacrifice, and love for what you do.”

She admits, “This is just the beginning,” but she is confident about the future knowing that “with God, all things are possible.”

She encourages colleagues to “step into your greatness, make a difference, stand out amongst the crowd, and use the knowledge and skills to teach and raise upstanding citizens.”

Celebration with thanks

ELDRICKA JACKhas a lot for which to be Thankful. She is the Award winner for the Division of Technical and Vocational Education of the Community College. Jack, from the Northern Grenadine island of Bequia, received the accolade at Victoria Park last Tuesday.

She acknowledges that is a “cause for great celebration,” and also thanks. The gratitude extends to the institution, sponsors and well-wishers.

Eldricka is grateful to her Accounting Class in which she copped the Programme Award.

There is mention of her father Eldrick Jack, and commendations for her island colleagues for their resilience in the face of challenges across the channel to and from mainland St. Vincent.

She contends that “there are no secrets to success,” and that “it comes from preparation, hard work and learning from failure.”

Education V 14. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

DonÊt give up In the Spirit of Education

WINESSA JAMESpursued the Associate Degree Programme in Paralegal Studies as offered by the Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies. She was recognized for her outstanding performance in her field .

For all that she had achieved she “owes a debt of gratitude to the institution.”

She noted the period of her training and having to adjust to the reality of the times. Those included the Covid onslaught and later the rigors of a volcanic explosion.

She notes that “difficult situations create resilient people,” and she brands her colleagues in that category.

She is grateful to the institution for having provided “the necessary skills and knowledge we need to go to the next phase.”

Whatever the situation, James urges her colleagues to “hold on to hope, and to “look forward with an eye towards how you too can be inspiration to others.”

THREE STUDENT\ were recognized and awarded for their attitude to learning, when the SVG Community College staged its graduation last Tuesday. The three: Deanna Williams, Kyle Alfonso, and Joshua Edwards.

They represented three different Divisions of the ST. Vincent and Grenadines Community College (SVGCC).

Williams enrolled in the Early Childhood Programmed and took

the award for the Division of Teacher Education.

Alfonso, did the Agricultural Science and Entrepreneurship Programme, and is part of the Associate of Applied Science Degree program. He embodied the spirit on behalf of the vision of Technical and Vocational Education.

Joshua Edwards received Award for the Division of Arts Sciences and General Studies.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 15. Beacons on Behalf of Others V

VINCI Jazz & Cocktail Concert delights

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING US Correspondent naking@verizon.net

AFTERa four-year hiatus, the annual Jazz & Cocktail Concert organized by the Brooklyn, New York-based Vincentian-American National Charities, Inc.

(VINCI) returned on Jun. 11 in the spirit of Juneteenth, Caribbean-American Heritage Month and pre-Father’s Day celebrations.

According to Enisha Fern Dopwell — VINCI’s public relations officer and coordinator of the “successful event”, at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center, on Prospect Place in Brooklyn.

The event was graced with the performances by Kingstown-born Frankie McIntosh, one of the Caribbean’s preeminent musical arrangers, and his Friends InternationalTrinidadian pannist Garvin Blake, Brooklynbased drummer Damon Duwhite and Guyanese bassist Max Gouveia.

“It was the first in a long while that I had been privileged with the opportunity not only to share the same space with so many other Vincentians but to perform for them as well — the next best thing to being home for carnival,” McIntosh said.

In addition to their own performances, the quartet provided accompaniment for singer and song writer Abena Amory, daughter of celebrated Vincentian soprano Erlene Williams-King and the late, former Nevis Premier Vance Amory.

“Abena was remarkable. There was no rehearsal with her before the show,” McIntosh told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards. “She forwarded part of her repertoire beforehand. I selected the songs that would go best with our group’s instrumentation, and scored the music for those. … “Abena came to the stage and sang — not a hitch.”

“It was an honor and privilege to be able to perform with the legend, the great Frankie McIntosh, and his band,” Amory said. “I had a wonderful time. It

warmed my heart to feel the love and support from the audience.”

McIntosh noted that the acts which followed — all youngsters — were “tremendously talented.”

They included Trinidadian-American pannist and VincentianAmerican brothers Noel, Oneal and Mikel Haye.

He said his group was grateful to former St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador to Cuba Dexter Rose, Dopwell’s cousin and radio host of “Jazz Tropical” on NBC SVG 705 Radio.

McIntosh said Rose, the leader of a musical group by the same name (“Jazz Tropical”), had suggested the idea of a “Jazz Dinner” and recommended his group to Dopwell.

Rose — who was in Brooklyn as a judge for the preliminary judging the night before of the Dynamite Calypso Tent for Vincy Mas 2023 and attended the event — said the show was “an amazing idea,” adding that he looks forward to seeing “more of this.”

Dopwell, a Questelles native, said the audience was “well entertained” and “…. showed appreciation… by applauding, and thanked everyone who contributed, donated and attended the event.

In the spirit of Father’s Day, she said VINCI was “honoured” to acknowledge Haywood Thomas, 97, “one of the most senior supporters in our community.”

16. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN Diaspora V

Frankie McIntosh on keyboards with International Friends (l-r): Garvin Blake on pan, drummer Damon DuWhite and bassist Max Gouveia. Abena Amory gives “Your Love”.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 17.

Chandler on the mend

NATIONALfootballer -

Hosni Chandler is back in St. Vincent and the Grenadines after receiving medical attention in Trinidad and Tobago.

And, from all reports, he is on the road to recovery and can optimistically look at resuming his training before the end of 2023.

Chandler journeyed to the twin island republic from June 7 to June 14, during which he spent five and half days at the Surgi-Med Clinic in San Fernando.

Raymond Trimmingham, President of the BESCO- Pastures Football Club, of which Chandler is a leading member, reported on Chandler’s return saying, “I am pleased to announce that the procedures done in Trinidad and Tobago were all successful.”

He added, “The doctors ran every test that is possible with his

conditions, and he was given medication to prevent the re-occurrence of the blood clot that had affected him.”

On completion of the regimen of medication, Chandler will be required to do a series of specific exercises, to help strengthen the muscles around his heart,

Trimmingham said.

Trimmingham was elated to also announce that Chandler would not need surgery, as was previously thought.

“Thankfully, he will not need any surgery as his condition can be dealt with the use of medication, and that we are grateful to hear,”

Trimmingham underscored and projected an all clear for Changler within the next “four to six months.”

In extending thanks for the support given to aid in Chandler’s cause, Trimmingham expressed, “From the BESCO-

Pastures Football Club, we are eternally grateful for the support from the general public, corporate entities, the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, private individuals and others who made the effort to provide that financial support for him to seek attention in Trinidad and Tobago.”

Chandler’s case

Chandler’s health alert was raised last November, when it was revealed that he had an irregular heartbeat.

Further revelations were that Chandler had severe pulmonary arterial hypertension, deep vein thrombosis, a recurrent pulmonary embolism and compressed left ventricular function.

It was then

recommended that a Cardiac Catheterisation surgical procedure was the best option for Chandler’s condition.

His condition attracted attention from Vincentians home and abroad, and given his inability to afford overseas medical care, his Football Club mounted a campaign on his behave.

The campaign got going with a fundraising event, a football extravaganza dubbed ‘Goal Quest’, at the Victoria Park on April 29. This successfully garnered donations from persons living here in St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Diaspora.

This was the platform for a sustained and successful effort by the BESCO - Pastures Football Club, in ensuring that Chandler’s overseas medical expenses were met.

People V 18. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

Hosni Chandler could well be back in training before year’s end.

SENATORand former Calypso Monarch of Barbados John King has expressed concern that the development of the entertainment industry is being hindered by “people pulling down each other.”

In an interview with Barbados Today, King admitted that the

Barbados landscape has been riddled with examples of one entertainer belittling another entertainer, but he was holding out hope that the recent impasse between veteran entertainer Peter Ram and iWeb and Khiomal would

bring an end to this type of behaviour.

John King takes entertainers to task ÂTurn Me OnÊ goes double platinum

Switzerland.

The song went Gold (500,000 units) in the United States in October 2004, and had reached Platinum in the UK, after selling 600,000 units, in February 2017.

It is also currently certified Platinum in Australia, and Gold in Denmark (45,000 units), Germany (150,000 units), Norway (5,000 units), and Switzerland (20,000 units).

Both versions of the song appeared on Lyttle’s self-titled debut album, released under Atlantic Records. The album entered the Billboard 200 albums chart at No. 8, selling 84,000 copies, and was later certified gold in the United States, for selling 500,000 units.

The impasse, which has got to the stage of threatening legal action, came as a result of Peter Ram, real name Peter Wiggins, singing during a public performance some controversial lyrics in which he mentioned the names of iWeb Webster and Khiomal Nurse.

King highlighted that “there’s a fine line between entertainment and devaluing people,” and went on to tell say, “ One of the things that we as black people do a lot is devalue each other as part of entertainment,” and he made reference to an-earlier-intime incident involving calypsonians Kid Site and the Mighty Gabby.

“So I’m hoping that this particular incident, regardless of how it plays out, would be a wakeup call for the artistic community, but also for the wider community, for the parents, for would-be parents and others to begin the process of changing how we view entertainment and pay special attention to the things we say about ourselves and about others,”

And in underscoring how “deeply saddened that in 2023 we are dealing with this,” King reminded those actively involved in the entertainment industry that “People have feelings. …We are free and are free to express

ourselves but you also have to do it with respect for the other person.”

He urged the upcoming artiste to take a stand against devaluing one another.

“I also wish that the artistic community and those persons who are coming up and wanting to be a part of the entertainment fraternity would take a stand and decide to produce music or produce artistic works that are a bit more positive. It’s not to say that everything has to be happy-golucky. We live in a world where art reflects the world and the world reflects art but we just have to find that balance,” King said.

And as much as the Peter Ram affair has become a topic of national debate, King does not think that this will affect the 2023 Crop Over.

“Too many people have been waiting for this [Crop Over] to revel and have a really good time,” he posited (Source: Barbados Today)

KEVINLyttle’s 2003

hit Turn Me On, which received a new remix in April 2023, is now certified double platinum in the United Kingdom.

According to the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), Turn Me On was issued the BRIT Certified Multi-Platinum (2x) award on Friday (June 15), after it sold more than 1,200,000 copies in the UK as measured by The Official Charts Company.

The latest iteration of the track is a remix by Luude and Bru-C, featuring Lyttle, titled TMO (Turn Me On).

Released on April 28, the remix is currently at No. 42 on the UK

Singles chart after debuting at No. 88, six weeks ago.

Produced by Adrian Bailey, the original Soca, Dancehall, and R&B tune had featured guest vocals from Spragga Benz and had interpolated lyrics from R&B group 112’s 1998 song All My Love. The official remix featured more lyrics from Spragga.

Turn Me On peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 2 on the UK Singles chart, and was a top 10 hit in Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and

In 2016, American electronic group Cheat Codes sampled Lyttle’s Turn Me On in a remix titled Let Me Hold You (Turn Me On). The following year, American singer Chris Brown also sampled Turn Me On to make his song Questions.

“I own the publishing on Questions. I also own the publishing for the Cheat Codes’ version, “Let Me Hold You”, which is bigger than the Chris Brown version,” Lyttle told The Source.

The song was also sampled in J.I.’s Need Me (2019), and Collie Buddz’s Mamacita (2006). (Source: Entertainment Hub)

News/Regional V THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 19.

Senator John King, a fromer Minister of Culture, chastised Barbados entertainers for what he calls “bad vibes”. Kevin Lyttle has been able to ‘reinvent’ his 2003 hit ‘Turn me On’ in what that must be envy of other recording artistes. (Credit: thesource.com)

Peggy Ince-Hull and me

by CYP NEEHALL

PEGGYInce-Hull was not my contemporary. She was in fact my senior and even though through time she attempted to lessen the degree of seniority over me and tried her utmost to treat me as an equal, I don’t think she ever succeeded in so doing, nor did I ever let my guard down to think far

less behave in a manner that would make us equals.

She remained my senior regardless of how much she reminded me that I had become a father and a grandfather.

I grew up watching this short stature of a woman wielding her skill in and around women twice her size, on the netball courts — from

grass to concrete - much to the enjoyment of crowds of enthusiastic netball fans, who in that time and space were bolstered by a sizeable representation of the male stock.

How well I recall the ‘battles’ fought by this woman on behalf of her beloved Maple Netball Club against the might of Falcons and Jets — as

she encouraged her teammates and never gave up herself. Defeat, I would get to understand and appreciate, was never a part of her ‘make-up’. She insisted, persisted with a quiet disposition. Yes, her prowess was recognised and rewarded when at the tender age of 13 years old she was called up to national

netball duty. But the accomplishment that meant so much more to me, and to us “Montrose Boys”, was when Peggy Ince-Hull was appointed captain of the first ever West Indies Netball Team to the 1963 World Netball Tournament held in Eastbourn, Sussex, England.

We were boys, yes, but we understood the significance of this in the face of blatant discrimination at the time against ‘small island cricketers’ by the West indies Cricket Authority. Peggy InceHull’s captaincy of a West Indies Netball team was something hard for the male dominated West Indies sports to swallow, but it was a single act about which we were ready to celebrate even if what we celebrated paled against other 1963 happenings like the famous Civil Rights March on Washington and the assassination of civil right activist Medgar Evers.

This feat, if I may be brave or stupid enough to say, has diminished in significance by the netball fraternity even as Peggy Ince-Hull traversed the netball landscape first as player, then as coach, manager and as an astute administrator even after her playing days.

But this is a personal reflection and I have veered perilously close to “netball politics” which many would say is not my domain.

I take the liberty to say that I always counted myself as the one among the Montrose Boys who had a special relationship with Peggy Ince-Hull. I enjoyed our encounters that contributed to growing that relationship — a relationship that took on a whole new definition and expression when she discovered that, like her husband, I smoked. I

dare say, regardless of how it morphed, our relationship remained an amicable and steadfast one.

I had just entered my early twenties when she made that discovery and thereafter, on each and every occasion we met, regardless of the circumstances, she took the opportunity to encourage, no, to beseech me to break this deadly habit.

To say that she had one regret in life, i.e. that she could not get her husband to wean himself away from a “puff” is not to take away from the stoic personality I had come to know.

For when I made it my business, and I felt obligated so to do, to let her know face to face that after 46 years I had thrown that reprehensible nicotine from my life, her expressions of celebrations over my accomplishment was as though it had been her husband bringing the good news.

And as though to put the whole scenario into perspective, and as though to speak in a wishful whisper on her own behalf, I recall her saying, “You wife will be surely glad.”

For Peggy Ince-Hull it was always about what you did and how it affected others.

Rest in peace Mrs. Peggy Ince-Hull. The days ahead will be filled with pleasant memories of your deeds and gifts to this world and that motherly appeal, “Get rid of that cigarette”.

20. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN Tribute V

Peggy Ince-Hull - a phenomenal woman.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 21.

Feeling obligated

Dear George,

THE TRUTH is, I am just stringing along with my girlfriend out of pure obligation. Not too long ago she bailed me out by lending me three thousand dollars. She claimed she lent me the money only because she was with me.

I feel bad now to tell her I’m leaving seeing she was so kind to me. The truth is I’m tired of the relationship and want out. The reasons are too numerous to mention.

Gotta Go Now. Dear Gotta Go Now,

It is not a good thing to be in a relationship solely out of obligation. You should be in it

because you are satisfied that you are right for each other and in your case that the woman you are with is the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.

You can always repay the three thousand dollars back. It should not be the glue that is preventing you from getting out.

You have to communicate your feelings to her. She may not take too kindly to your decision but in the long run will respect you for your honesty.

George.

Age is not an obstacle

Dear George,

I AM35 and in love with this 48-yearold man.

My closest friends all tell me to get someone younger. They say that is because sexually speaking he will run out of juice very soon and would not be able to satisfy me. Should this be something I should worry about now?

Searching For Answers,

Dear Searching For Answers,

The last time I checked, love can be

found in some strange places and it knows no boundaries. Your heart has guided you to this 48-year-old man and you have reassured yourself that he is the right one for you.

There are things you can do to enhance and maintain the sexual health of your partner (e.g. diet, exercise). The age factor itself is neither here nor there because there are much younger men who have issues with their sexual health.

It is always good to keep an open mind and focus on what brings you happiness today.

George.

Pastor’s advice has no basis

Dear George,

MY PASTORrecently counselled my fiancée and me as we prepare to get married.

After our second session, I began to feel uneasy with his advice, which included: to have sex only in the missionary position; that we should not talk during sex but rather to think spiritual thoughts in order to keep the act “clean”; and that we should call him before we have sex so that he could pray for us that God will bless us and gives us all that we wish for.

I just want to hear your take on this because something does not seem

right.

Confused.

Dear Confused,

I cannot find any basis for the things he has been stringing together for you to follow and you therefore, must be careful not to swallow what was thrown at you.

It was God who created sex for mankind to procreate and also for

pleasure. You do not need to seek anyone’s blessings before sex. Keep in mind that today there are Pastors and there are Pastors. Check in with God first before making any move concerning your upcoming marriage. From him, you will receive guidance as to what is the next best move to make.

George.

Advice V 22. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. THE VINCENTIAN

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

You may think gifts will win their heart, but it could add stress from lack of funds. Resist the temptation to gamble. Risks will not be profitable. Rid yourself of that which is old and no longer of use.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Don't overspend on friends or children. You can accomplish a lot if you direct your thoughts toward starting your own small business on the side. Losses are likely if you have left your financial affairs in other people's hands.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Your mate may not be too sure about your intentions. Your lack of attention may have been a factor. Help others solve their dilemmas. You must not let fellow workers take advantage of your fine talents.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Avoid friction with your mate.

Dealing with foreigners will be most enlightening. Don't expect new acquaintances to be completely honest about themselves. A day at the beach may satisfy the whole family.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Take time to do something nice for yourself. You can't lose this week unless you get involved in gossip or overwork to the point of exhaustion. Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

If you put your energy into physical outlets you will avoid confrontations. Try to control your irritability if you're experiencing emotional problems with your partner. Your contributions will be valued and helpful.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Changes in your domestic scene are apparent. Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are apparent. Risky financial ventures will result in unrecoverable losses. You might have some problems balancing your books.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Your emotions are fluctuating, so be careful not to say things you'll regret. You are ready to blow up and your stress level has gone into over drive. Partnerships with creative people could lead to financial gains.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Be sure to get involved with those who can introduce you to unusual forms of entertainment. Changes in your residence will be favorable in the long haul. Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Equilibrium in your romantic life is likely if you treat your partner well. Take time to look at any outdated papers or possible investments. You may want to stay in the background this week. You will do well if you mingle with the brass this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

You can make money if you're willing to push your ideas on those in a position to support your efforts. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

You must be sure not to be frivolous, because as the saying goes, easy come, easy go. You will feel better about yourself and you may also meet potential lovers. You can meet new friends who will let you know just how valuable you are.

ACROSS

1. Kind of D.A.

5. Some N.C.O.s 9. PC expert

13. Driver Castroneves 15. Squirrel’s home 16. Bruised 17. Buffalo 18. Hammer sites 19. Weaving frame 20. Soul singer 23. “___ Legend” (2007 Will Smith movie) 24. Moliere comedy, with “The”

Art patron

Swiss artist Paul

statue

joint 34. Arum lily 39. Latino singer 42. “Matrix” actor Reeves 43. In the vicinity

Dashboard gauge

Volcano 47. Minimum age for a Senator 49. “Aye ___!” 52. Parisian summer 53. Original name of one of the great rap and R&B singer 59. Stat start

“Put a lid ___!” 61. Prime-time time 63. Footnote abbr. 64. Court hearing 65. Motherless calf 66. Crimean and Boer 67. Admiral’s service

68. “Blue” TV squad

DOWN

1. Contented responses

2. Words before date and record

3. Epithet

4. It has zones

5. Old Faithful output

6. Five-time U.S Open champ

7. Yukon or Guam (abbr.)

8. Noted TV street

9. Squeals

10. Eleve’s place

11. Church singing group

12. Song of praise

14. Vision-related

21. Short poem

22. Sibling’s daughter

25. Unassuming

26. Grayish-brown sea eagle

27. Explorer of kids’ cartoons

28. “Beauty ___ the eye …”

29. “Pirates of the Caribbean” star first name

30. Runners

33. City light

35. City of Italy

36. Pinocchio, sometimes

37. Milk prefix

38. Pallid

40. “We are the Champions” singers

41. Big money game

46. Big businessman

48. Cut

49. Conductor Zubin

50. Annually

51. Paddles, stencils, brushes, etc

52. Vestibule

53. Cold one

54. “Lord of the Rings” singer

55. Ukraine capital

56. Skilled stalker

57. Like French toast

58. Luxury liner

62. Bill’s coadventurer, in the movies

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 23.

Leisure V

25.

29.

31. Piccadilly

32. Often-injured

44.

45.

60.

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

Special Olympians gain World Games medals

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINESSpecial Olympians were able to cop medals in the three disciplines in which the country competed in the 2023 World Games, held in Berlin, Germany, from 17 to 25 June 2023.

Leading the count was swimmer Krista Bynoe who scalped a bronze in the Women’s 25m Backstroke and bronze in the 25m Breaststroke.

But it was Tennis that shone through with silver medals. The pair of Utica Smith and Natasha Doyle grabbed second places in the mixed females, and the duo of Andrick Arthur and Teron Hull copied the feat in the Male Doubles.

Meanwhile on the track, Jason Browne secured a bronze in the Men’s 100m.

Smart Toilet TT champions decided

27th June at the same venue. The Tournament was open to wide participation including former and current national players, primary and secondary schools students and representatives from the various club and academies across the state, and was conducted in three categories: Male Open, Female Open and U16.

In addition to the medal count, there were five fourth places, one fifth place and a sixth place, all of whom received ribbons.

Apart from Bynoe, the other swimmers were Walsh Ollivierre and Jason Williams.

Lamont Gregg once again showed that he is one of the up and coming table tennis players when he took the U16 title.

11/8, 8/11, 10/12, 11/9, in a best of 7 set, to take the Female Open Singles title.

The Berlin Games represented the eleventh occasion that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was attending the Summer Games. The 2023 participation follows outings in 1983, 1987, 1991, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015 and 2019.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ contingent to the 2023 was expected to return to base last Wednesday, June 28.

LAMONT GREGG, Unica

Velox and Damion Dublin took the top spots in the Under-16, Female Open Singles and Male Open Singles respectively, when the first ever My Smart Toilet Seat

Spencer Table Tennis Club Invitational Open Tennis Tournament conclude here last week.

An official closing ceremony planned for Saturday 24th June at the James F. Mitchell Auditorium, where the Tournament itself was held, was postponed to Tuesday

On the green table, Gregg of the Spencer’s Table Tennis Club defeated Zayden Cyrus of the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy, 3 games to 1; 8/11, 11/5, 12/10, 11/9 - in a best of 5 set to take the U16 Boys Singles title.

National female player Velox, playing unattached, defeated Jessica McCarter of the Spencer’s Table Tennis Club 4 games to 2; 11/5, 11/8,

National Male Champion Damion Dublin from the JD’s Academy took the Male Open Singles title when he defeated Tykel Pierre of the Spencer’s Table Tennis Club, 4 games to 1; 11/7, 11/7, 8/11, 11/9, 11/3, in a best of 7

For their outstanding performances, Gregg pocketed a cash prize of $1,000.00, Velox $1,200.00 and Dublin $1,500.00.

These prize monies were provided for from a tournament sponsorship of $10,000.00 by My Smart Toilet Seat, which is said to be the largest cash (prize) payout to table tennis players here.

According to a release from My Smart Toilet Seat, their partnership with the Spencer Table Tennis Club in staging the Open Tournament was aimed at: helping players to refine and further develop their skills; provide incentive to young and adult players to train harder in readiness for involvement in local and regional competitions; and to advance table tennis in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I.B.A.

V 24. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

ALLEN

Damion Dublin continued his dominance of senior male table tennis here by taking the Male Open Singles. Unica Velox brought her experience to bear in her victory in the Female Open Singles. Right: Krista Bynoe L-R: Utica Smith, Andrick Arthur, Natasha Doyle Jason Browne

AS A PRECURSORto its 2023 Annual Graduation Exercise (Tuesday 27th June), the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College held it 2nd Annual Sports Awards Ceremony last Sunday, June 25, at the Hospitality and Maritime Training Institute, Diamond. The activity was held under the theme, “Maintaining an Elevated

Laborde, Franklyn top SVGCC Sports Awards

Standard”.

As it was, the evening’s places of pride went to Kirtney Franklyn of Associates Combined and Teia Laborde of Mustangs Track Club.

Franklyn, who will be representing the Windward Islands Under-19 team in the upcoming Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 Tournament here next month, copped the prestigious titles of Sports Personality and Sportsman of the Year Awards. He was also voted the basketballer of the year.

Teia Laborde took home the Sportswoman of the Year Award. She was also named Athlete of the Year and the Non-Affiliated Athlete of the Year.

Others who were recognized for their individual outstanding performances over the last academic year were: Steven Pierre (DASGS Year One) - Footballer of the Year; Kyila Miller (DASGS Year Two)Netballer of the Year; Reshawn Lewis (DTVE) - Cricketer of the Year; Leah Cumberbatch (DASGS Year One) — Table Tennis Player of the Year; and Jamaar Cropper (Associates Combined) - Volleyball Player of the Year.

Glenside rules in Greiggs Football

AGOAL in either side of the half gave Glenside Ball Blazers a two-nil win over Awesome last Sunday, June 25, at the Antoine Playing Field in Lauders, and the title of champions of the Caesar’s Real Estate Greiggs Football League.

Zidane Sam netted Ball Blazers’ first half goal and Figo Pope added the finishing in the second

The Non-Affiliated Entity of the Year Award went to BlueChip Basketball Academy and the Division of the Year Award was copped by the DASGS (Division of Arts Sciences and General Studies).

Unsung Heroes Awards went to Jimmel Lewis, Rueben Ross, Orianne Ambris; Jlan Mc Master, Jahva Audain and Marsha Marshall.

period.

Both teams were however guilty of squandering chances, with Ball Blazers being the chief culprits.

The two got to the final following contrasting wins in their semifinal duels.

Ball Blazers had a 6-5 win over Pride and Joy on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time; while Awesome overpowered Greiggs, 7-3 in the other half of the semi-final match-ups.

In the third place play off that preceded the final, Greiggs beat Pride and Joy, 4-3.

The other participating clubs in the first ever full 11-vs-11 competition in the community, were SV United, Brownstown and Diamonds Sparta.

Awards

Greiggs’ Osaei Delpesche was the top goal scorer with 13 goals, and MVP of the competition.

Orlando Trimmingham of Pride and Joy was adjudged Best Midfielder, with his team mateDamar Williams, the Best Goal Keeper.

And Romell Jackson of Awesome was named the Best Defender.

For champing the competition, Glenside Ball Blazers pocketed $1500, with runner-up, Awesome receiving $1000; and third place- Greiggs, $500.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 25. Sports V

I.B.A. ALLEN Kirtney Franklyn - Sports Personality and Sportsman of the Year. Teia Laborde – Sportswoman of the Year. Steven Pierre –Footballer of the Year. Kyila Mille - Netballer of the Year. Jamaar Cropper –Volleyball Player of the year. Glenside Ball Blazers – Champions. Romell Jackson – Best Defender Osaei Delpesche –MVP

Semifinal memories

TODAY, June 30 Jules Anthony is 70 years old. But there will not be any party. He would have been at the semi-final in the course of regular proceedings. He had become attached that event as it hovered around his birthday. His last semifinal was in 2018.

He passed away November 16, 2018.

North Leeward was his roots, in the village of Troumaca where he entered as an infant. He was born at San Nichols Hospital in Aruba, the fourth child at that institution to Leopold and Miriam Anthony.

His name echoes with pride throughout the land and his footprints are in the landscape. He was a mentor to me. A man of faith, hope and love, we live in total embrace. He was the spark of inspiration to me, and he instilled such a degree of confidence that I became entwined with his organizational capacity.

He assumed role of responsibility from an early age, and served as the father figure when the children section of the family resided at New Montrose. By that time the Anthony family had expanded to nine children.

An influential personality, Jules established contacts with a range of circles stitching interests in national heritage. He was practical and went about his life in genuine and sincere style. His activities veered him into realms of sport, culture, trade union, Credit Union and wherever sound leadership was needed.

He was a tutor, and many persons can testify to the smooth manner in which he went about his lessons.

He was my consultant and guided me many steps along the way without any prompting. He had a deep feeling of loyalty, one bordering beyond regular occurrences.

I would turn to him in times of doubt. We balanced memories, and there were many which he encountered, some bizarre, some comical, but always cherished in the phases of our existence.

It is perhaps for those types of interactions, that he remains so missed from my psyche and why I keep harping about his life.

We accepted the loss of our mother July 3, 1994. That was six months after the death of our eldest brother Michael.

Our father passed away September 26, 2016, at age 95. At a residence in Clare valley in the South Leeward district. It was at that same house that that I rushed to one Friday morning November 16 2018. I try to adjust to the facts as they unfold, even though this aspect of getting used to his physical absence is overwhelming me.

He would have relieved me of the burden of some situations that are facing us. He carried a sense of fulfilment, and whatever the crisis might have been he would have found a way to drift the tears. But since he is not around. I will have to summon the courage to make it on my own. Thankfully, he left a legacy that some of his contacts have identified with, and through their commitment to his cause. The Jules spirit lingers.

Kombat Warriors: F15 Softball Champion

KOMBAT WARRIORSare the first champion of the F15 Softball Cricket Competition.

They etched themselves into that Competition’s history when they defeated East Kingstown by 8 wickets in the finals of the inaugural competition played at the Richmond Hill Playing Field last Sunday.

East Kingstown United won the toss and chose to bat. They posted a total of 76 runs for 9 wickets in their 15 overs.

Andrew Glasgow top scored with 25 runs. Bowling for Kombat Warriors, Marlon Farrell took 3 wickets for 12 runs in 2 overs, Danroy Fergus took 2 wickets for 8 runs in 3 overs.

Kombat Warriors in reply raced to 82 runs for 2 wickets in 8.4 overs. Captain Romano Pierre played a captain´s innings of 52 not out, to his team to victory.

For their effort, Champions Kombat Warriors were rewarded with a case of Hairoun Beer, a trophy and $2,000.00 in cash.

Second placed East Kingstown took home a case of Hairoun beer, a trophy and $1,200.00, while third place finishers, AIA Reload, walked away with a case of Hairoun beer, a trophy and $800.00 in cash.

As for individual awards, Andrew Glasgow of East Kingstown was named MVP of the Competition for his 241 runs and 24 wickets, the highest wicket haul in the Competition.

Glasgow just missed out to Denron Hoyte of AIA Reloaded as the highest run getter. Glasgow amassed a total of 244.

Nine teams participated in the Competition which attracted sponsorship from: Teachers Cooperative Credit Union, Massy Stores, General Employees Co-operative Credit Union, East

Caribbean Bottlers Inc (Village Ram and Sipz Water), St. Vincent Brewery (Hairoun), National Lottery Authority, and RWDT Triumph Trading.

I.B.A. ALLEN

CWI Rising Stars U19 bowls off

WHEN THE2023 CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Tournament bowls off here next week, July 4, three Vincentians, all-rounder Kirtney Franklyn, wicket-keeper batsman Reshawn Lewis and fast bowler Soloman Bascombe, will be looking to impress in front of their home crowd.

The three will walk out to represent the Windward Islands in front of what is considered an extended home crowd for the fourisland grouping.

And the Windwards will be

playing and hoping that the “home crowd” works to their advantage as they take on the rest of the West Indies in the 50 overs and threeday tournaments, which run from July 4th to August 1st.

Matches will be played at the Arnos Vale 1, Sion Hill, Park Hill and Cumberland playing fields.

The Leeward Island will be looking to defend their three-day tournament title while the limited overs title will be up for grabs this year.

The Windward Islands will take on the Leeward Islands in one of three opening round matches at Arnos Vale 1, on July 4. Trinidad and Tobago face Barbados at Sion Hill and Jamaica oppose Guyana at Cumberland from 9:30am.

Road to Paris reaching schools

AN UNDERTAKINGby the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC) will see several schools across St. Vincent and the Grenadines benefit from a Road to Paris initiative.

Accordingly, visits are being made to the schools where slide shows of venues, the sporting disciplines and other pertinent information about the Olympic Movement as well as the Olympic Games are shared.

During these interactive sessions students are required to draw the Paris 2024 mascot or come up with a design of their own.

Spearheading the effort is

French Volunteer, attached to the Secretariat of the SVGOC- Ms. Sofia Rezzoug.

Rezzoug expressed delight with the opportunity to share with the young students.

“I am really enjoying the exercise… the students are lovely, very receptive and friendly,” Rezzoug commented.

She added, “All the schools I have visited so far, the reception is good and I am looking forward to doing more schools, when the new school year opens in September.”

Rezzoug also noted that she will liaison with the various

The Windward Islands team is: Reshawn Lewis, Solomon Bascombe, Kirtney Franklin, Divonie Joseph, Stephan Pascal, Ackeem Auguste, Jerel Jeremiah, Kirt Murray, Tarrique Edward, Bolton Sayers, Jerlani Joseph, Kevin Gassie, Devon Tyson, Noel Leo, and Divone Joseph.

I.B.A. ALLEN

training camps that are scheduled for July and August, to “spread to the word on Paris 2024… It will be my pleasure doing so and I am looking forward to it.”

The Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, the XXXIII edition, take place July 26 to August 11.

Sports V 26. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 THE VINCENTIAN

Kombat Warriors – champions of the F15 Softball Cricket Competition. East Kingstown – runner-up. Kirtney Franklyn (left) and Reshawn Lewis will be looking to impress. Soloman Bascombe will be looking for an improved personal tournament performance. Students of the Kingstown Preparatory School learning about Paris 2024.

More Vincy roots in the NBA

From Back Page.

As a freshman this past season, Jarace averaged 11.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, while shooting nearly 35% from three-point range.

He is credited as having played a key role as a defender in helping UH rise through the ranking in the country, win the American Athletic Conference regular season title, and secure a berth in the Sweet 16, i.e. the top collegiate teams in the USA.

And if that is not all to the attention he now enjoys, Jarace is the current ‘darling’ of UH having become the highest-drafted UH product since Hall-ofFamer Hakeem Olajuwon was taken with the first overall pick by the Rockets in 1984.

As for his future, one basketball analyst didn’t hesitate on the night of the draft to declare: “At

just 19-years-old, Walker’s game is still developing. But his size, defensive ability, and high motor should help him see the floor early in his NBA career.”

THE VINCENTIAN congratulates Jarace

Walker on his achievement. He will now compete against the best basketball players in the world and we wish him success as he confronts this new challenge.

Tuesday, 27th June, 2023

Holy Trinity Church

Georgetown Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Churchyard Cemetery

FREDERICK SHARPE

Bethel Gospel Assembly South Union Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Arnos Vale Methodist Church Viewing: 9:30 a.m. Service: 10:30 a.m.

Monday, June 26, 2023

Kingstown Methodist Church

Tributes & Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

CONRAD ADOLPHUS BUTE

Saturday, 24th June, 2023

St. Olive Spiritual Baptist Church Park Hill

Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

DANIEL AUGUSTUS JOHN

Sunday, 25th June, 2023

Church of Nazarene Rillan Hill

Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

Classifieds

MAGDALENE BROWNE ALMA ROLINA ABRAHAM-LEWIS SELWYN ANTHONY GIBSON

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023. 27.

MORE VINCY ROOTS INNBA

ANOTHER young man of Vincentian heritage has been selected among the top ten players in the 2023 NBA Draft at Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets, one of the NBA franchise teams.

Jarace Walker followed in the footsteps of Vincentian Adonal Foyle when he was drafted the No. 8 overall pick in the 2023 by the Washington Wizards, who then traded him to the

Indiana Pacers in exchange for Bilal Coulibaly and two future second-round pics.

Adonal, a centre, was born on the Grenadine island of Canouan. He was selected by the Golden State

Warriors with the eighth overall selection of the 1997 NBA draft and played ten seasons with that franchise.

Jarace was born on Sept 04, 2003 in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, to parents Marcia — a Guyanese - and Horace Walker a Vincentian with deep roots in the Leeward coastal town of Layou. That makes Jarace the grandson of renown politician Owen Walker a former Senator in the local House of Assembly.

The 19-year-old, 6’8, 240lbs played college basketball for the University of Houston Cougars. He was a consensus five-star recruit and one of the top players in the 2022 class.

Continued on Page 27.

FROM POLICE OFFICER TO MAGISTRATE

by HAYDN HUGGINS

JOHN BALLAH, a lawyer and former police officer took his experience and knowledge to a higher level this week.

Ballah took up duties as Magistrate at the Kingstown Magistrate Court on Monday, shortly after taking the Oath of Office at Government House.

Up to the time of his magisterial appointment, Ballah headed the Legal Research and Policies Unit of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), and held the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

His appointment came about three months after Senior Magistrate Rickie

Burnett was elevated to the post of High Court Judge, leaving the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court without a magistrate, triggering concerns in some circles as to when sittings there would resume.

Ballah had been a member of the local constabulary for 20 years and worked in almost every division of the police force, including the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). He was at one point attached to the Major Crime Unit (MCU), a Unit in the CID.

He was admitted to the local bar in 2016 and later worked at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), as an attorney for the Crown, for about two years.

He resumed duties as a police officer during the La Soufriere volcanic eruptions in 2021, to assist with the relief efforts, and was later tasked

with setting up the Legal Research and Policies Unit of the police force.

However, Ballah continued to assist the DPP’s Office, and was part of the prosecuting team led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Karim Nelson, in the Veron Primus murder trial, securing a conviction on July 18, 2022.

His appointment as a magistrate means that Ballah will join Magistrate Bertie Pompey, who serves the Georgetown district, as one of two former police officers who have risen to the magistracy.

Pompey was a retired deputy commissioner of police when he was called upon to serve as a magistrate. Ballah, meanwhile, will become the only public servant in the magistracy. All the others are employed on contract.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2023 VOLUME 117, No.25 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park. AI REAL ESTATE Fair Hall Executive house on 1 ½ cultivated acres. - $1,400,000.00 - H534 Victoria Village 21,791 sq.ft. - $250,596.50 - BB402

Hill Incomplete House on 7,407 sq.ft - Open to offers - H519 Ottley Hall 4 bedrm Property on 3,312 sq.ft. - $121,000.00 - H529 (784)- 457-2087/(718)-807-4376 office (784)-493-9431/(784)-533-0431donp@vincysurf.comwhatsappcell

Twenty

Jarace walker in action for the University of Houston Cougars whom he helped make it to the top sixteen college finals in 2023. John Ballah has had a rounded exposure to the law and judicial processes here. Jarace Walker on the night he was drafted 8th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft.