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FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 7, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.44

www.thevincentian.com

DIAMOND VILLAGER ALLEGES POLICE BRUTALITY

October, after being informed by someone that his nephew, Lesroy JUST TWO WEEKS after a Victoria Stapleton, was spotted in the back of a Village resident, Kirthland Johnson, a police transport, said “I call my sister devoted Seventh Day Adventist was (Lesroy’s mother) who isn’t living too wrongfully accused by Police Officers of far from me, and tell her go down to being involved in a robbery, which the CID and find out what happen.” ultimately caused him to lose his job as a The sister set off for Kingstown, but Security Officer , Kirt Joseph of King’s spotted someone looking like her son, Hill, Diamond, has alleged he was mansitting on a bench at the Calliaqua handled by police. police station. On closer inspection, Joseph, the brother of famed she discovered it was not her son. national cricketer Dawnley Joseph, Joseph said she then telephoned him alledged that he was physically and asked him to check at the Stubbs abused by police officers at the Stubbs police station. police station, after he went to inquire On arrival at the station, he met about a nephew who was arrested. some officers inside the yard, “So I Joseph, an auto-mechanic by said good afternoon to everybody profession, said that on Thursday 30th outside, and then I go and approach

by KENVILLE HORNE

EC$1.50

Kirt Joseph of Diamond, claims to have been physically abused by police for no reason.

them inside and said good afternoon.”

According to the mechanic, he informed the Police Officers that he was Lesroy’s uncle, and he had come to inquire about his nephew’s arrest.

Joseph said he recalled an officer sitting to the left becoming agitated and said out loudly, “If alyo bin discipline you all children he wouldn’t a been here.”

Joseph admitted retorting with, “That is not the question I came here to ask, because I hear they lock up Lesroy,” to which the officer reacted by “chasing me out the station.”

It was at that point that the officer got physical. “He started to push me from out of the station door straight up on the walkway at the police

ASP Jonathan Nichols assured that police officers found to be at fault for matters other than criminal matters, are disciplined internally. station,” related Joseph.

After being forced out of the police compound, the mechanic said he took his phone from his pocket and attempted to call his sister to inform her that her son was being held at the Stubbs police station.

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Youth

Youth Affairs Division showcases young talent The show was also the Division’s way of showing RESIDENTS IN THE appreciation to the Rose COMMUNITY of Rose Place Place community for the and surrounding areas ten years that they have were treated to a day of accommodated the entertainment by some of Division in their the best young talent community.

St.Vincent has to offer.

Junior Pan Champions The community came C.W. Prescod Primary alive on Friday as the School showed why they Youth Affairs Division, in are a force to be reckoned the Ministry of National with in the field of steel Mobilization, staged orchestras. They opened “Youth the proceedings with Expression/Showcase”, a renditions that traversed variety show inclusive of a number of genres, to musical renditions, dance much applause. and drama, to highlight The C.W. Prescod was positive contributing by followed by students of youths to nation the New Montrose based building.

Rainbow Unique Day

by KENVILLE HORNE

Nursery and Preschool.

They performed two folk songs with such clarity and innocence that they brought smiles to the faces of those who were present.

But it was the Lowmans Leeward Anglican School, Primary School Dance Champions, under the tutelage of Maxine Browne, that received the biggest reception.

They performed two pieces, with such precision and excitement that the crowd was demanding more.

Lowmans Leeward Anglican was followed by

Students of the St. Mary’s R.C. School highlighted their career ambitions. the Imani Preschool, and the Edinboro Early Childhood Center.

The Roman Catholic School was also brilliant on the day, the career outfits modeled by the students received a tremendous show of appreciation from the audience. They also engaged in Maypole dancing.

The Dr. J.P Eustace Memorial Secondary School did a dramatic piece, zeroing in on the importance of staying in Lowmans Preschoolers from Rainbow Unique Day school. The message was Nursery and Preschool performing one of their folk effectively conveyed. songs.

The theme for the creative expressions’.

Affairs Coordinator event was ‘Unmasking The event was coPhilcol Jeffers. youth brilliance through ordinated by Youth

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 3.

News 3

PS Pompey: ÂOil TankerÊs next stop was St VincentÊ continued, also confirming that he was the one who alerted the Prime GODFRED POMPEY, Permanent Secretary Minister. in the Ministry of National Security, has He said that he was not at liberty to maintained that the comments made by give further details — that included the Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, and source of the information.

Minister of National Security, that the oil Dr. Gonsalves said during the tanker ‘Noble Spirit’ was scheduled to October 24 Session of Parliament that dock here, are correct. he had received a call from Pompey on Pompey told THE VINCENTIAN October 14, who had informed him on that, while he was not sure why the the planned movements of the ‘Noble vessel was expected to dock here, Spirit’ which left a port in Houston, based on the tracking log of the vessel, Texas and was denied entry into the next port of entry out of Jamaica Jamaica, after it became apparent that was in fact, St Vincent and the two Philippine crew members were Grenadines. demonstrating Ebola-like symptoms.

“Not because it didn’t have fuel for According to Dr. Gonsalves, Pompey St Vincent meant that it was not had indicated to him that, based on scheduled to dock here,” Pompey said intelligence received, the tanker was during a telephone interview. also expected to make a scheduled stop “The Prime Minister was correct in St Vincent. with that (information),” the P.S The owners of the vessel, MOL

by DAYLE DA SILVA

Diamond villager alleges police brutality start to beat me again,” contended Joseph.

He was then put into “The phone does give the holding cell at the me trouble, so I hold it station, and the officers with my right hand and procceded to taunt him. put my left hand over it Joseph’s younger to see the number. All I brother would eventually receive unexpected, prove to be his hero on somebody hold on pon that day. After inquiries my hand and say, ‘Oh by his brother, Joseph alyo want to take out was released without picture, alyo want to charge. play bad man’,” Joseph His nephew was also continued. released, but would be The sudden approach arrested and charged by the officer caused later in the day.

Joseph to fall to the The Diamond villager ground and, according to has since reported the him, it was then the matter to the Police beating began.

Public Relations and “He started to pull me Complaints Division, and back into the station has been promised that yard. He beat me from the matter would be there. I had a chain investigated. around my neck; up to When THE now, I don’t know where VINCENTIAN contacted the chain gone,” said a the head of that distraught Joseph. department, ASP Joseph alleged that Jonathan Nichols, he another officer joined in confirmed that a report the act. “Another officer had been made regarding who was in the yard the matter, and that an investigation was came up and started boxing me all in my face, ongoing.

When questioned then they both pull me back into the station and about whether there has Continued from Frontpage.

been an increase in reports against police officers, Nichols said he has not seen any increase in the number of reports being made against police officers, but declared that one is too many, since the Commissioner of Police and he would like to see officers remain on the right side of the law.

Nichols informed that the finding of any investigation by his department will not be made available to the media, only to the complainant.

He assured, though, that whenever a police officer is found to be at fault, he is disciplined internally, but where the matter is a criminal one, it would be handled by the court.

As for Joseph, he is seeking justice. “I need a hundred percent justice, not even ninety-five percent, and I would like to see police brutality stop in this place,” declared Joseph.

Tankship Management (Europe) Ltd., however, refuted the comments made by the Prime Minister, saying that the vessel was not scheduled to dock at Port Kingstown and did not seek permission to do so.

In an article which appeared online earlier this week, the owners further confirmed that they were denied entry into Jamaica and Barbados, and that the two Filipino crew members who joined the ‘Noble Spirit’ in the United States, flew directly from the Phillippines and neither of them had ever visited any Ebola infected countries.

The article further indicated that, while the vessel was en route from Houston to Equatorial Guinea, the two Filipino crew members complained of symptoms of a chest infection and were treated onboard under advice from Radio Medical Assistance Rome.

Godfred Pompey, PS in the Ministry of National Security, said that ‘intelligence’ confirmed that the MV Noble Spirit was bound for St. Vincent.

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4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Murder victim complained of threats, says attorney Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Paul Spence, whose death is a matter of ongoing police investigation, had two murder charges against him withdrawn in November 2013.

ATTORNEY Kay Bacchus-Browne, who had represented Paul Spence in a case in which two murder charges against him were withdrawn about a year ago, says Spence had complained to her that he had received threats to his life, following his release from prison November 12 last year.

Bacchus-Browne told THE VINCENTIAN that she had written to Commissioner of Police Michael Charles on the issue. She said Spence was in tears when he made the complaint to her.

“They (police) must take these reports seriously and be aggressive in their approach to investigating them, because they could very well prevent some murders form occurring,” Bacchus-Browne said.

When contacted on Wednesday, Commissioner Charles recalled that he had received a letter from Bacchus-Browne to that effect. He said an investigation was launched, into the report, but to date nothing was unearthed.

Spence’s nude body was discovered lying on the floor of the bedroom of his home at ‘High Road’, Barrouallie around 8 a.m. last Saturday.

An autopsy performed on Monday revealed that the 48-year-old mason, farmer and fisherman died from chop wounds to the head.

It was reported that the corpse which police say was partially decomposed, was discovered by a relative, who occupies another house on the same compound, when she looked through a window of Spence’s home.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the Barrouallie man was last seen alive in the early hours on the night of Thursday, October 30 in that community.

Information is that sometime prior to his death, Spence was assisting residents with cleaning the graves of their deceased loved ones in preparation for the lighting up of the cemetery for ‘All Saints and All Souls’, November 1 and 2.

Spence, who had been in custody since January 23, 2007, charged with the murders of Mabel Pollin, 72, and her daughter, Veronica Frederick, 49, both of Barrouallie, walked free from the High Court November 12 last year, after Crown Counsel Carl Williams withdrew both charges.

The body of the elder Pollin was discovered in her three-bedroom house at Glebe Hill, Barrouallie on December 21, 2005. Her daughter, who was there unconscious, was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, but died January 2, 2006.

Autopsies revealed they succumbed to head injuries.

Following the killing, Spence was held for questioning, but was released without charges.

However, physical evidence was sent to the United States for forensic analysis with results returning about a year later. He was arrested and charged January 23, 2007, reportedly based on DNA evidence. He was subsequently committed to stand trial on both charges and the matter was traversed at the Assizes several times.

Crown Counsel Williams had given the court no reasons for withdrawing the matter, and when contacted then, he told THE VINCENTIAN, “There was no requirement in the law for me to give reasons for entering a nolle prosequi.”

Minutes after emerging from the High Court building, Spence had told THE VINCENTIAN, “me nah really feel good because I was accused wrongfully. I don’t know anything about that, I don’t kill people”.

Up to press time Wednesday, police were continuing their investigation into Spence’s death.

Thirty-two homicides have been recorded so far this year, surpassing last year’s count of 27.

Student charged with blinding incident AKEEM MARTIN, a third form male student of the Dr. J.P. Eustace Memorial Secondary School, charged in connection with the blinding of a female student of the same school, has been put on a dusk to dawn curfew as part of his bail condition.

Martin, 17, of Ottley Hall, is charged with unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to Melissa McFee, 16, of Largo Height, also a third former, with intent so to do on October 28.

Martin was not required to plea when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias at the Serious Offence Court on Mondlay.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche told the court that the matter involved an allegation in which the virtual complainant lost vision in her right eye. He noted that she had been discharged from the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. He had no objections to bail, but asked that bail be granted with suitable sureties; that an order be made for the accused not to have contact with the complainant, and that he be placed on curfew.

Bail was granted in the sum of $5,000 with one surety on condition of no contact, and a curfew was imposed from 6 p.m. to 6 am. A Preliminary Inquiry is slated for February 2015.

Reports are that around 11:50 a.m. October 28 at the School, McFee was punched several times in her right eye, causing her to lose sight in that eye.

Jervonne Samuel

Man remanded on attempted murder charge A MT. GRENAN man who appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, November 3, on charges of attempted murder and wounding, was remanded following strong objections to bail by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche.

Jervonne Samuel is charged with the attempted murder and wounding with intent Makeda Jackson, and the wounding of her mother, Emma Jackson, both of Mt. Grenan.

The charges reportedly stemmed from a vicious cutlass attack at Mt. Grenan, October 31, 2014.

The Senior Prosecutor told the Court that Makeda was still warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, while her mother had been discharged.

He noted that the defendant is Makeda’s ex-boyfriend and that she feared for her life.

According to the Prosecutor, Samuel has a matter of similar nature pending in Court, in relation to Makeda, and she had reported him for threats he made against her.

Delpleche said Samuel was reported to have told Makeda that if he can’t get her, he will kill her.

A Preliminary Inquiry is slated for January 16, 2015.

Samuel was not represented by legal counsel.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 5.

News

No to devaluation, says Eustace Right: Arnhim Eustace, Leader of the Opposition and a trained economist, will not support any devaluation of the EC dollar.

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION, Arnhim Eustace, said that he will oppose any proposal made to devalue the Eastern Caribbean Dollar.

Speaking on the ‘New

Times’ radio programme on Monday, Eustace said that there has been talk within recent times of the need to devalue the EC Dollar, particularly because the economies of

The EC dollar is said to be supported by healthy reserves of the ECCB.

some of the OECS member states were not doing well, and the EC$18 million loss the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) endured in 2013.

“But we have to watch the impact on our economy, and I do not support our devaluation of the EC dollar,” Eustace said.

He explained that the current system had been in existence for the last 38 years.

“I think it has worked pretty well, and we just can’t jump because we have had a period of difficulty.”

Eustace acknowledged

that it was the first time that he had heard of the ECCB losing money; however, it was mandatory that it kept reserves which maintain the value of the currency.

According to Eustace, the reserves were currently put at EC$130 million and represented about 95 percent of the EC dollars in circulation today.

“If you have reserves, it shows that you are able to function still by your imports for a few months without any particular problem, and if that is the case, then why are you devaluing?” he asked.

“There are not many countries in the world that can boast that,” Eustace added, referring to the ECCB’s reserves.

And while it was important to work and develop the economies of OECS member states, Eustace was of the opinion that people ought not to get too carried away with the idea of the possible devaluation of the EC Dollar.

Grenadian trade unionist, Chester Humphrey was quoted earlier this year by one media entity, as saying that unless the deteriorating

circumstances affecting some OECS countries are dealt with, this could result in the devaluation of the dollar.

He cited his own country as having high debt and falling government revenues, claiming that the state was unable to finance its way, and that unless the governments of these countries were not careful, then they would be forced to devalue the dollar.

Petrocaribe was conceived and implemented by President Hugo Chavez (4th from right front) seen here with Caribbean and Latin America leaders at the 5th Petrocaribe Summit.

Bracing for a Petrocaribe fallout

by DAYLE DA SILVA SYSTEMS OUGHT to be put in place to cushion any adverse effect from the possible fallout in the Petrocaribe agreement with Venezuela.

Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace, has again repeated this position following the news out of Jamaica that that country has already started to put measures in place for any eventuality of that nature.

According to Eustace, with the decrease in the price of oil on the global market,

combined with the poor fiscal performance of the Venezuelan economy, that country may soon find itself in a position where it can no longer continue to support the Petrocaribe arrangement.

In an article which appeared in the Jamaica Gleaner, Jamaica’s Financial Secretary, Devon Rowe, had indicated that his country was already putting measures in place to cushion the effects of a possible fallout.

The article continued that the assurance came amid the warning from Nouriel Roubini, Professor of Economics and

International Business at New York University, who said that the falling prices of oil on the global market could soon bring an end to the agreement, which allows for those who signed on to the agreement to purchase oil from Venezuela at concessionary rates. “...the economy is struggling, you think Venezuela is in a position to continue Petro Caribe?”

Eustace asked during the New Times programme on Monday.

“Can they continue to be generous to us in that regard?”

“I addressed this issue

Oil production in Venezuela is said to have decreased before the recent fall in oil prices. before….that we need to begin putting measures in place, given the possibility that Petrocaribe can go,” the leader of the opposition said.

“I made some statements that we should ‘un-sign’ Petrocaribe, but I was heavily criticized for that — but I not

bothered by that, you know, I looking objectively at the situation on the ground, and what I see is that Venezuela is in deep economic problems, and their ability to continue Petrocaribe is being threatened right now,” Eustace said.

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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Charge withdrawn against mentally challenged SENIOR PROSECUTOR Adolphus Delpleche this week, withdrew a marijuana possession charge against a mentally chal-

lenged man.

Rickie Phillips, a wellknown character on the streets of Kingstown, was charged with possession

of 900 grams of marijuana with intent to supply to another, last Friday, October 31.

Phillips appeared

ÂMelloÊ jailed

before Chief Magistrate Rechanne BrowneMatthias, at the Serious Offences Court on Monday.

yo P…..”

She ignored the defendant, but he repeated the THERE WERE mixed reactions from persons gathered words. outside the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, Walker told the court she then asked him why to a custodial sentence imposed on Michael Waldron, he was harassing her, and he pulled a knife from popularly known as ‘Mello’. his waist and said, “I go kill you, I go kill you,” ‘Mello’, a well-known character on the streets of and repeated the words”, I want to suck yo P….”

Kingstown, with no fixed place of abode, was She said the blade of the knife was about six inches sentenced by Magistrate Carla James, to one long. month in prison for assaulting Michelle Walker of Walker reported the matter to the police, and New Montrose, with intent to commit the offence of ‘Mello’ was subsequently arrested and charged. wounding.

The court also heard evidence from Constable Some persons were of the view that, while Shaffique Joseph who investigated the matter.

‘Mello’ could be troublesome at times, people In his defence, ‘Mello’ admitted that he told generally understood him, and hardly ever Walker “I want such yo P…”, but denied that he bothered to react to his provocative remarks. had a knife.

One man said it was “a waste of time” sending Under cross-examination by prosecutor ‘Mello’ to prison.

Constable Shamrock Pierre, ‘Mello’ said he followed Some felt that the virtual complainant lied in Walker from the Kingstown Vegetable Market to her evidence when she said ‘Mello’ pulled a knife the Gas Station, but insisted that he did not have a from his waist and raised it at her, as they never knife. knew ‘Mello’ to be a violent person.

‘Mello’ denied that he had a knife even after the But others agreed with the sentence, saying that matter was concluded, but seemed not to be ‘Mello’ was “too troublesome”. bothered about the penalty.

Walker testified that on June 11, 2014 she was “Is only a month”, he told reporters as police in the vicinity of a gas station in Kingstown when officers escorted him from the Court.

‘Mello’ approached and said to her, “I want to suck Mello’ was not represented by a lawyer.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

However, before the charge was read to the defendant, Delpleche told the Court that he was not proceeding with the matter.

When contacted, the Senior Prosecutor told THE VINCENTIAN, that Phillips was mentally challenged, and imprisoning him would be an unnecessary burden on the state.

He pointed out that the matter did not pass the public interest test as embedded in the Code for Prosecutors.

Delpleche explained that prosecuting somebody should be a deterrent, and a message should be sent to persons who want to offend the law. Somebody should benefit from the prosecution.

“A person who is prosecuted should be able to be rehabilitated and fit back into society, complying with the norms and values of society,” he contended.

The Senior Prosecutor questioned rhetorically, “If you have a mentally challenged person, as in

Adolphus Delpleche, Senior Prosecutor, says that the matter involving Rickie Phillips did not pass the public interest test. the case of the defendant, how do you rehabilitate him, and would he really understand the wrong that he did?”

Delpleche, who knows the defendant well, said, “I am not saying that he committed or did not commit the offence, but I think his case is a special case, as he is someone with special needs.”

Reports are that Phillips was arrested during a stop and search exercise by police on the Leeward side of mainland St. Vincent.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Two for pondering The Legal system WHO CAN FATHOM the law? Do we really believe that the law takes into consideration what is right or wrong?

With all that has transpired through the Courts here and elsewhere, no one should be faulted if he/she concludes that, rather than dealing with right and wrong, the Court entertains and is influenced by ‘facts’ presented by the better person/attorney.

In so doing, the Court is prone to pass judgement against the innocent, simply because some crafty attorney was able to cast enough doubt in the minds of a jurist or jury.

On the other hand, have there not been cases when it appears that the evidence is stacked against the accused, only to have the arguments weigh in favour of the said accused? The guilty, in this case, goes unpunished.

The crux of this scenario is that lives have been affected for the better and, moreso, for the worse, by our system of law.

Have not the Courts, after due process, punished the innocent — resulting in that person losing his job and, so to speak, his life, since the journey for the convicted after serving a prison sentence, in many of these small societies, is paved with challenges that amount to little opportunity for real re-integration and banishment to a life of ineptitude?

On the flip side of the law is the ‘freeing’, on some technicality or because there was an iota of doubt created by a suave defence attorney, of a person accused of murder.

This seems to find forte with what some describe as the mantra of the application and ‘sense’ of judgement, i.e. that ‘it is better to let ninety-nine people free than to hang one innocent man’.

And given what has obtained recently through the system of the court here, would it be wrong to ponder on the likelihood that there are a number of innocent people, or misguided victims of societal ills, who are serving jail sentences because of what the law allows — how the law is structured?

Yet, would we trade the law system as we know it for another?

Like our politics, that system is adversarial in character. And yet, with all its faults, we cannot blame the judge and/or magistrate; but that does not preclude our right to criticise the legal system.

Petrocaribe Given what obtains with the price of oil, and Venezuela’s own admission that it would be hard-pressed to fulfil its local and regional commitments if the price fell below US$90.00 a barrel, is it premature to ponder on the future of Petrocaribe?

As we write, the price for oil has fallen to a frightening US$79.04; definitely not a price with which Venezuela would feel re-assured.

Studies indicate that the cost to Venezuela from the Petrocaribe programmes is about 400,000 barrels of oil a day (300,000 going to Cuba alone) or an estimated US$20 billion a year. In addition, it is advanced that the petroleum subsidies that the country allows incountry amount to some US$20 billion.

Don’t expect that the regime in Venezuela will cut these subsidies.

That being the case, should we, SVG which enjoys concessions on oil under Petrocaribe, not brace ourselves for Venezuela easing out of Petrocaribe? Not that it has said or given indication that it would.

But, in a situation of economic challenges Venezuelans are asked to endure as a result of a fall in oil production and price, we cannot expect them to understand, far less tolerate forever, how and why their country chooses to subsidise Petrocaribe recipient nations to the tune of (an estimated) US$7 billion a year.

The fact is that the balance of payments of the Caribbean economies have become dependent on subsidies under the Petrocaribe arrangement. However, in spite of concessionary prices for the oil they receive from Venezuela — $40 to $50.00 a barrel up front, with the rest payable as a loan — none of the recipient nations have been able to achieve any sustained surplus on their balance of payments.

And, given the recipient nations’ own challenges, they could well find themselves hard-pressed to service the loans.

So, are we prepared to see beyond Petrocaribe, or is this pondering pie in the sky?

ULP and the Justices of the Peace The ULP rode on a wave of popularity that swept the country in 2001, so much so that only a few persons read my columns which counselled restraint and reflection, having stamped me as KENDP, if not anti-Ralph.

I warned of dangers of the enveloping ULP euphoria, particularly the wanton victimisation that was being boldly practised with a toothsy smile and bearhug slap on the back.

Ignored and frustrated, all Arnhim could do eventually was to take a list of names of people - nearly 700 - who were unfairly dismissed, to Barbados where he obtained some radio and TV coverage, and nothing else. And so, the problem was allowed to grow and fester unattended and overlooked by the citizenry as a whole, with a blind-folded church walking by on the other side.

In this article, I mentioned one group in particular that the PM thought it necessary unfairly to smear with the party-political brush - The JPs. From the beginning, word went out that the country should be cleansed of all NDP Justices of the Peace. They fell like nine pins generally, within one month of the ULP taking power, with little comment, written or spoken.

What follows is a random sample of victims. First, Yvonne Francis Gibson who used to be a tower of strength behind parliamentarian Arthur Williams before committing the unpardonable sin of crossing lanes to the NDP in 1984.

Former Assistant-Commissioner of Police, Wendell Wright, was sent packing, all because he had at times traded words with the current PM when he was a defence counsel and Wright was prosecuting for the police.

Ex-Primary School headmaster Garvin Seymour, who has been a community worker in North Windward, was sent packing on the grounds of closeness to the NDP, for which his name was mentioned as a possible candidate in 1998.

A pair of sterling grass-roots men and moving spirits in the environs of Kingstown were brutally cut down.

Barber Lloyd Lewis of Sion Hill and George Howard of Edinboro were thought to be humble men who had ventured out of orbit, especially in voicing their opinions over the radio. They were each taught a lesson.

Further on, there was the classic case of Miss Urcelline Philips. The instruments of her office were removed by a remorseful cop whom she had taught from ABC up.

The newly emergent independent group of banana farmers were put firmly in

their place. Such was the fate of Alston Lewis and Sylvanus Joseph, both of Greggs.

But the classic case of Alexis Griffith stands out. He had been a JP and a member of the PSC of which I was chairman at the political change-over in 2001.

The PSC is a creature of the constitution and had a year and half to run. But I had been so maligned by the incoming ULP that, bearing also their overwhelming mandate, I decided to resign from the Chairmanship immediately. Two other members, Mikey De Freitas and Erica Mc Intosh, joined me in resigning, leaving Alexis Griffith and Bruce Mulraine to continue to serve the ULP administration for the rest of the Commission’s term.

Griffith and Mulraine naturally were not considered for re-appointment. But after a delay of nearly two years, during which he served in the PSC of a ULP Government, Griffith was fired as a JP, and all his instruments removed by police officers the very same day that he ceased being a member of the PSC. Even the politically purblind could conclude that Alexis Griffith’s only transgression was that he belonged to another party, never mind that he had been so proper and circumspect in his dealing with his fellow ULP brethren on the PSC for almost two years!

Similar cases include Cornis Mars of Troumaca, a lady of remarkable presence and discipline, who handled local administrative matters during the NDP regime, just had to go, with the ULP assumption of office.

The Government shows little concern for the niceties of political appointments.

For them, the abuse of power guarantees respect. If you don’t use it, you would sooner lose it, runs the motto.

The parties must lend some respectability to their community, of choices of JPs, except where they are openly fraudulent or are on the “lunatic fringe”, as has happened in the case of Duff James.

The ULP undermined even the simple but vital system of JP’s. I will show in a future article how I, as chairman of the NDP-appointed PSC, treated the ULP whose members form part of our citizenry always.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 9.

Letters

That Leeward Highway THE LEEWARD HIGHWAY is underway, but is it being done right?

No, the drain slabs on both sides of the road surface, are approximately 12”x16” with a back, but there is no steel in them at all.

We have other slabs like them all over the island with steel. Isn’t it the same company that did the Windward Highway, and used steel in the slabs?

Why now is steel not being used in the slabs on the Leeward Highway?

On behalf of all taxpayers, I ask: What is going on with our young engineers? Do they know what they are doing?

There should be a continuous wall along the roads to hold the road surface, but the wall is being constructed foolishly with no contracting joint, and if there is a construction joint, there is no steel to bind the two slabs together. A contracting joint helps to control cracks and helps to mend slabs in small areas.

At present in Campden Park, on the main road to Questelles, there are four (4) cracks right across the slab. Who is to blame? Are we just patching the road for another 5-year span, to have to do it all over again? These slabs need steel. I worked in Trinidad and Tobago on such slabs, and steel was used.

A local builder placed an article in this paper saying the foundation of building needs to be much deeper and compacted, and all columns should be constructed to bear the weight of the building. His words and experience seem to have fallen on deaf ears.

Cocoa: The best alternative

I HAVE BEEN trying to follow, as best as I could, the revival of cocoa cultivation and by extension, a cocoa/chocolate industry here. I was pleased to read that the St. Vincent Cocoa Company has been able to attract investors, and that they are already buying cocoa beans.

I read recently where a London chocolatier was getting ready to enter into an agreement with Trinidad and Tobago to buy cocoa beans, and that country’s Food Production Minister was encouraging the cocoa people there to explore even more opportunities that are reportedly out there for cocoa-producing countries.

It appears to me, therefore, that here in St. Vincent, we just might be on the ‘cusp’ of a good thing as the demand for cocoa increases. Reports are that cocoa prices have risen 16 per cent in the last year, and the average price of cocoa in September is up by 30 per cent over the corresponding period for 2013.

All of this should be encouraging for growers here in St. Vincent. Further, given what is happening in Africa, with Ebola looking to threaten places like the Ivory Coast and Ghana where 60% of the world’s cocoa is cultivated, world cocoa prices could just surge even higher.

All of this speaks to the need for our cocoa growers here to give attention to ensuring that what is already in the field is well cared for and that may be, it is the time to increase cultivation here.

Bananas are all but a thing of the past, and while arrowroot is beginning once again to offer some hope to agriculture here, cocoa may yet turn out to be our best alternative.

I support wholeheartedly the efforts to build a genuine cocoa industry here. It has the making of producing something ‘sweet’ for this country.

Peter

WICB made up of cardboard men

WHAT KIND OF MEN really make up this thing we call the West Indies Cricket Board? If I have to answer my own question, I would say they are all cardboard men. They couldn’t stand up to even a slight breeze.

Every time there is some disagreement between the Board and the players, these administrators just back down like straw men and call in the cavalry, like in the old time westerns. The cavalry, of course, are those regional Prime Ministers, led by our own, who wait on the side lines to jump in quick, quick, to make some more mileage for themselves.

This &X#@ must stop. These cricket administrators are supposed to be trained men, but I am beginning to question their training. You can have all the training in the world, if you don’t have backbone and common sense, you like a square peg in a round hole.

A tax-payer If this kind of behaviour by the Board is going to continue, is better the Cricket Board become a Commission of CARCOM, and then those Board members will have somebody to answer to.

And by the way, we expect to hear soon about OUR 35th Independence Parade had a good whether the West Indies will tour South Africa as morning, but it was the worst I have ever seen so planned. Is no way South Africa would accept some far. The faults were not seen by the untrained eye second string West Indies team, so the Board and because of their numbers. However, there was a the players better hurry up and resolve their very tall, clear-skin guy in the front row who differences. reminded me of my army days. I will give him an ‘A’ for drills; he should be a drill instructor.

Reynold Roberts Next, the cadets take a prize as usual. Then there was a female coast guard officer who kept skipping to get in time.

The foreign soldiers, while our military band was ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has just playing our marching tune, were singing and celebrated its 35th Independence from Britain, but marching to their own tune. That is not protocol! it may yet be overwhelmingly as ‘Colonial’ as it I was both embarrassed and ashamed at the remains Christian. In the circumstances, ‘stealing’ marching skills of all the non-military groups. At is no doubt a crime as is similarly prescribed in the no time did we have a 6 o’clock or a ¼ to 3 line.

Everyone failed to glance over his/her shoulders, Holy Bible at Exodus, Chapter 20, verse 15 - “Thou both left and right, to see if his/her partner was in shalt not steal”, and re-enforced by Chapter 22, front or behind. verse 2 - “If a thief be found breaking up, and be How can those in position collect a bunch of smitten that he die, there shall not blood be shed untrained boys and girls for a 2-week practice and for him”. (Authorised King James Version) put them on a military parade?

Perhaps a new oxymoron may be coined: - “Thief Nowadays, scouts, rangers, guides in SVG are big - mitigate, thief little — refrigerate”. not trained to march. They are trained to walk.

Clement W. Iton A Queen Scout & ex-soldier

Our military parade

Thou shalt not steal

Lotto tax removed, why?

SO THE government has decided to remove the tax on winnings for all games operated by the National Lotteries Authority. This is quite something, and I wonder why it was not made as part of the Prime Minister’s Independence Address.

I am not aware of how much the government has been able to reap from the tax on the Lottery games, but I would stick my neck out and say it must have been a tidy sum. In these hard times, I am left to wonder about the motivation for the removal. Is an election round the corner? Will the government make up for this loss by the introduction of some new tax or increase an existing one?

As a regular player of the Lottery games, I was satisfied to pay the tax because I saw it as paying on ‘extra’ money.

I obviously prefer this over having to pay a new tax or increased taxes from my normal earnings.

So, if it is the plan to tax us otherwise, I beg to suggest that the government rethink its position and reintroduce the Lotto tax.

Lotto Player

What a country Part 3 MY VEHICLE was clamped a few months ago. Notice said offence is “Parked on the northern side of road”; but no sign says park on the south side. Notice also says “This car has been immobilized to save the cost of towing”.

Towing? Why? Who? Not by police, because the card says, “Management not responsible for damage to car or property of any kind”. I going to ask police to talk to management about that.

PF we go make it a double.

Robbie Williams

* Why are persons asking Man-AboutTown if the laws relating to ‘tiefing money’ change? * How come our PM could find the time to intervene in the latest cricket dispute, but he can’t bend somebody hand to make sure Bottlers workers get their severance pay? * Have some police officers taken it upon themselves to resort to brutal acts against civilians because they have some personal grouses with those civilians? * Who from the NIS top ranks has/have gone on more vacation leave and why?

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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

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We are ready to rebuild Defamation - the failed weapon of the Opposition NDP our country The issue OPPOSITION parties worldwide, spend a lot of their time devising strategies aimed at achieving political power, and putting their hands on the reins of government. By and large, they do so by exploiting the mistakes of the government in power. They try to show why their political vision and strategies are better suited to the political climate of the day, and further, they advance policies and programmes aimed at economic stability, the creation of wealth and jobs, and generally advancing the well-being of their citizens.

Opposition parties that are poorly led, and without a sound philosophy, have a difficult time convincing voters that they should be elected. When this happens, it means that the leadership has failed to make their party attractive to the voters. So what is the next step?

The next step is the descent of that opposition party into a programme of “mudslinging”, aggressive misinformation, adverse propaganda, and in many cases, defamation. The Opposition New Democratic Party falls squarely into this bracket. Close examination of their radio programmes, political meetings and debates, will indicate that there is nothing of a constructive developmental agenda being offered to Vincentians. This is so, because they have no answer to the work being done by the ULP administration, to move the country forward.

The Defamations According to the website, thefreedictionary.com, defamation is described as “an intentional false communication, either written or spoken, that harms a person’s reputation, decreases the respect, regard or confidence in which a person is held, or induces disparaging, hostile or disagreeable opinions or feelings against a person”.

The laws of the country, under the Criminal Code, chapter 17/274 to 281, details a number of provisions in relation to defamation, along with the procedures to be adopted, in relation to criminal libel.

The opposition NDP sponsors a programme on Nice Radio, as part of their propaganda drive. It is on this programme that the NDP utters their defamatory statements, and it is on Nice radio that some supporters of the NDP attack the leadership of the ULP through defamation.

Perhaps the most popular defamation by the NDP, was the now settled EG Lynch matter. In this case in 2002, the late EG Lynch made a statement which claims that Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves used taxpayers money, to fund the travel expenses for his mother and daughter on a visit to Rome. Prime Minister Gonsalves sued, and after a period of time, in 2008, he was awarded over EC$200,000 in damages in respect of this defamation.

Since then, Prime Minister has successfully sued Nice Radio and other members and supporters of the opposition NDP, in respect of their defamatory statements, which amount to lies. Other members and at least one supporter of the ULP, have sued the opposition NDP and Nice radio,

while others have declined to do so, even when they have strong cases.

Indeed, Prime Minister Gonsalves accepted a simple apology from Douglas De Freitas, the owner and manager of Nice radio, in relation to a defamation, when his station reported that the Prime Minister owned two aircraft, which he has loaned to LIAT. What is behind this?

It is clear to all, that the NDP is bent on besmirching the good name and reputation of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Having failed in their attempt to derail the progressive programmes of the ULP administration, the NDP decides to attack the leadership of the country, in the hope that this will distract the voters, and that they will regard Comrade Ralph in a bad light.

To compound this, they have embarked on a campaign of lies and half truths, all aimed at making Vincentians afraid of the ULP administration. They tell lies on the education revolution, on the international airport project at Argyle, on the Housing revolution and in particular the project at Clare Valley. They lie on the economy, on the health sector, on hard working civil servants, and generally on the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

NDP not serious A few years ago, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said “politics is serious business to be carried out by serious people. It is not a branch of the entertainment business or of comedy central”. This still applies to the opposition NDP, in terms of their treatment of the development agenda in the state. If all that they can offer is a set of lies, half-truths and defamatory statements, then they are not fit for governance in the country.

By nature, Vincentians are a tolerant people, but the foolish attitude and antics of Eustace and his unpatriotic bunch are just too much for them. In the ULP and Comrade Ralph, they see a government and leader who are serious about the development of this country, and who will work hard to ensure that our country moves forward. By comparison, they see Eustace and the NDP as people who are completely out of their depth, lazy, with no proper vision, and no focused politics except to lie and defame.

When you listen to the NDP and their supporters on radio and face book, you get a picture of helplessness and cynicism. There is no credible leader, no credible policies, and no credible politicians in their ranks; only a group of political failures and non-achievers.

By contrast, the ULP provides honest, transparent and progressive government, and the people are aware of this, because they can see the evidence before their very eyes. That is why they will return the ULP to office, for a historic fourth term.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) has begun to outline its programme and policies to the electorate of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This is a critical process because it gives Vincentians the opportunity to famaliarise themselves with some of the programmes and policies of the party as it prepares for general elections.

The NDP is offering Vincentians hope, a better quality life, and will restore this country to a path of economic growth.

The next NDP government will work closely with the private sector.

To this end, a Ministry of the Private Sector will be established, which will enhance the relationship between the government and the private sector, and improve the investment climate.

The NDP believes that facilitating opportunities for companies and corporations to invest, will create jobs and expand the economy, and result in private sector development. This is intrinsic to establishing sustainable progress towards attacking poverty, and improving the standard of living for all Vincentians.

The NDP recognizes that improving government policies and behavior will not only shape the investment climate and drive private sector development, it will also drive economic growth and improve opportunities for everyone.

We will, therefore, provide a range of incentives and support to encourage private sector development, and above all, create the stable and appropriate macro-economic and social environment that will encourage investment.

Moreover, the NDP will eliminate red tape and constricting practices and processes in the public sector, and develop a facilitative and responsive public sector. We will also implement measures that promote competitiveness and growth in the private sector, and put in place economic and legal structures to foster an entrepreneurial spirit. In due course, private sector development that encourages growth will create sustainable jobs and opportunities for macro and micro entrepreneurs alike.

The NDP recognizes that entrepreneurs are a national asset, and should be encouraged and rewarded as much as possible.

Developing national entrepreneurship will create more wealth, more jobs, more opportunities and more prosperity in our nation.

Presently, the private sector in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is struggling. This is due to a number of factors, not least being the sluggish economy, the government’s failure to pay the private sector monies that is owed for goods and services provided to the government, and the regressive policies of the ULP Government.

These and more retard the critical role the private sector has to play in the development of the economy.

To rectify the situation, the NDP, as a matter of urgency, will pay the private sector the money that is owed to them by the ULP administration, so that it can once again begin to function effectively.

With all these problems already confronting the parents, the registration process has begun for students who will be writing the 2015 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), and parents have to pay the exam fees for their children. This is creating additional burden for most of these parents.

They are bawling and crying for help.

Therefore, it is an opportune time to reiterate and remind the parents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, that the NDP government will pay the fees for all students who are writing the CSEC and CAPE exams. It is hard for most parents to find the cash at this time to pay for the subjects, because most of them are unemployed through no fault of theirs.

The NDP values education and sees education as the key to development, and will do all that is possible to assist our youths to earn a quality education.

It was the vision of the Honourable Arnhim Eustace that led him to introduce the Book Loan Scheme, a programme the ULP regime almost destroyed. The Book Loan Scheme eased the financial burden of parents, and we anticipate the payment of the CSEC and CAPE exam fees will have a similar impact on the parents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Constituency Development Fund

Consistent with our belief in a Basic Needs Approach (BNA), the NDP is satisfied, more than ever, that we have to revisit our Administrative Development approach on behalf of our people. We therefore propose a Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

If we examine the number of constituency representatives that have been perceived to fail the voters of this blessed land, it is difficult not to conclude that we have witnessed a systems failure in our political administrative process. The NDP holds the view that if we approach national development from a constituency point of view, we are more likely to have a better result, specifically the following: * More people will share the national pie; * National Wealth will be more equitably distributed; * More people will get the opportunity to participate in contributing to production at all levels; * We will broaden the number of people who own the wealth in the country.

It is our view that if all of our constituencies develop, then automatically the whole country will develop. A natural expansion of this approach is that we can have more and better capital project implementation if better provisions are in place for constituency representatives to assist in their respective constituencies, within the framework of the financial and audit CSEC Exams requirements of the government.

We, therefore, undertake the While the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime continues to mismanage establishment of a Constituency Development Fund to advance the this country’s economy, the poor and basic needs of our people. The working class are suffering and are electorate must give the NDP the unable to make ends meet. They are opportunity to rebuild this country so finding it extremely difficult to pay that they can enjoy a better quality their bills, provide food for their life. children and send them to school.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 11.

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Bitter or better?

“If you continuously compete with others, you become bitter. If you continuously compete with yourself, you become better.” — Anonymous THE QUOTATION that was used to introduce this week’s article was extracted from a friend’s Facebook account. However, while I readily agreed with the second of the two sentences, I could not accept the first sentence in its entirety. I concluded that we do not necessarily have to become bitter when we continuously compete with others; a disciplined mind can avoid such a result.

Competition is a necessary part of life. Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) stated it so well when, in 1889, he wrote, “And while the law [of competition] may be sometimes hard for the individual, it is best for the race, because it ensures the survival of the fittest in every department.”

Carnegie, the great philanthropist and champion of the American steel industry, knew the value of competition. He lived it each day.

But he did not show signs of bitterness. Competition does not have to generate the bitter fruits.

Sports was an important part of the curriculum when I attended the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ College during the period 1972-74. I actually thought that I was an athlete back then. I recall how disappointed I was when a fellow student beat me by approximately five yards in the 100 yards dash. This occurred close to the end of our first year at college. I was determined to beat him when the event was repeated the following year. I dedicated myself to regular training (with the national athletics coach James Webb and several national athletes). My quest was aided by the fact that during the period when I was training (and getting faster) the winner of the previous year’s event appeared to have become addicted to smoking cigarettes. He seemed to have concluded that his natural talent was sufficient to retain the title. But he was so wrong. Although he had much more natural talent than I had, his lack of training and his smoking habit slowed him down. In addition, my training and determination speeded me up. Competing with him did not make me bitter at all; it made me better.

The way we react to situations in our lives can break us or build us.

They can make us bitter or better.

But the choice is ours. We will determine how we view the situations that emerge. We can learn from the wisdom that is captured in the Dalai Lama’s statement when he says, “We can let the circumstances of our lives harden us so that we become increasingly resentful and afraid, or we can let them soften us, and make us kinder. You always have the choice.” Yes, we choose. We determine whether or not someone’s statement will hurt us. Even if their intentions had been to say something to insult us, to bruise our ego, to make us feel inferior to them ... or whatever. We decide whether we let their evil motives bear fruit. We decide whether they inflame our anger. And because we have the power to choose, we can insulate our

Sheriff Lewis and the 1935 Rebellion in SVG emotions from the bitterness that so very often emerges when we realise that an individual is seeking to “ruffle our feathers”. But we probably ruffle theirs when, in our calmness and disciplined response, we let it appear “like water on a duck’s back”. Such situations do not have to make us bitter. They can make us better. We have control. We choose.

The foregoing paragraphs may result in some readers rightly concluding that we cannot always exhibit such emotional control. This is quite true. There will be times when others appear to “get under our skin” with their comments and/or behaviours. However, as best we can, we should seek to develop the fortitude to minimise the frequency of such occurrences (when we appear ruffled).

The second segment of the quotation begs for some commentary, though: “If you continuously compete with yourself, you become better.”

Many can testify of the truth that is captured in this statement. We should develop the habit of constant and never-ending improvement; always seeking to better our best efforts. Maltbie Davenport Babcock (1858-1901), and American clergyman, stated it so well when he said, “Our business in life is not to get ahead of other people, but to get ahead of ourselves.” Developing the habit of always seeking to better our best can take us far. Some readers may very well argue that this is not practical; there must come a time when you are just not in a position to improve the way you perform a particular task. And while this may seem to be a logical conclusion, I can find so many examples in the workplace to show how a culture of constant improvement can push the individuals within the organisation to excel. Consider the secretary who regularly considers how she (or he) could improve presentation style, and then moves into the realm of providing a follow-up list of things that the supervisor or manager should be considering. We can each pause here and reflect on the various tasks that we are performing and observing how we can improve each of these.

Constant improvement should be within our work and life DNA. It may very well mean that some of us will now need to re-educate and selfeducate ourselves.

Lavor K. Chaffin, the American newspaper education editor, the Deseret News, shares some useful insights that can support some of the views previously expressed. He noted that, “In my observation, the individual has reached his ceiling when he stops his self-education. The competent ones lift their ceilings day by day through self-education.

Those who are ‘drop-outs’ find their ceilings constantly getting lower.”

The challenge then, is for us to accept the challenge to engage in healthy competition with others and with ourselves. As we pursue these, let us endeavour to have these make us better ... not bitter.

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

“I PRAYED FOR FREEDOM for twenty years, but received no answer until I prayed with my legs.” Runaway slave, Frederick Douglas.

“What appeared on the surface was a picture of general working class subservience and docility.

Surveying the scene, colonial officials, representatives of the big foreign-owned enterprises and the local employers and upper middle classes generally felt confident and secure. ...

Sullen resentment and dissatisfaction were, nevertheless, swelling steadily among the working people and the unemployed in all the British colonies in the Caribbean area. By the middle years of the decade, the situation was like a cauldron of liquid slowly coming to the boil, with isolated early warning bubbles here and there disturbing the apparently placid surface.” Richard Hart, The origins and development of the working class in the English speaking Caribbean (1897t0 1938).

“During the 1930s, the Caribbean was alight with social protests, riots, revolts and rebellions. In Cuba (1933), Belize (1934), St Kitts, St Lucia, Barbados and Trinidad (1937) and Jamaica (1938), the people were restive and unwilling to live or be ruled in the old way.

In St Vincent, the spark that set the country ablaze came on October 21, 1935. It was the day on which the Governor of the Windward Islands arrived in St Vincent to preside over a meeting of the Legislative Council. At that time, the Council consisted of a majority of colonial officials and persons nominated by the Governor, with only a minority of members elected on the restricted franchise.

On 15 October, the Governor, in order to add to the Government’s revenues, introduced a measure to increase customs duties on a number of items of popular consumption. It was also the Government’s intention to maintain the high local tariff on sugar which had previously been imposed, to assist the sugar producers at the consumers’ expense. The legislature was scheduled to meet again on 21 October to approve the Governor’s proposals; but during the intervening week, there was mounting opposition to these proposals which would increase the cost of living.

On the morning of 21 October, a crowd gathered in Kingstown, the capital, in front of the shop of George McIntosh, a popular Town Councilor and druggist. They wanted him to inform the Governor of their opposition to the duty increases, and to present to him their other grievances about lack of employment and about general poverty.

McIntosh informed the crowd that the Governor had agreed to receive him at 5 p.m.; but they were suspicious that this was a trick to avoid hearing their grievances, because His Excellency usually left the island immediately after the last session of the Legislative Council. There was an angry demonstration outside the Court House where the Council was meeting, some of the demonstrators having armed themselves with sticks and stones.

Some demonstrators forced their way into the building.

Windows of the Court House were smashed, and motor cars of some officials were damaged. There were shouts of “We can’t stand more duties on food or clothing”, and cries of “We have no work. We are hungry”. The alarmed Governor adjourned the session of the Council. As he and other officials emerged from the Council Chamber, the Governor was pushed and struck. The Attorney General, who had drafted the tax measures, was cuffed by an enraged protester. In the ensuing rebellion, a crowd broke into the prison, releasing the ten prisoners there, and the business premises of F. A Corea, a member of the Council and the island’s

largest merchant and plantation owner, were ransacked.

Following the arrival of an armed police force, the Riot Act was read, and the crowd was fired upon. One person was killed and several were injured.

News travelled fast, and the rebellion soon spread to Georgetown and Chateaubelair. The rebels, led by Samuel ‘Sheriff’ Lewis, and demonstrating a measure of organization and co-ordination, cut telephone wires and blocked several key bridges.

The Governor, in a panic, called in the military from other islands, and armed police and volunteers from the propertied class were posted to guard the Cable and Wireless station and the electricity plant. At midnight on 21 October, a British warship arrived. On 22 October, a state of emergency was proclaimed.

Although the authorities were able to quell the unrest in Kingstown by the end of the first day, protests raged on in the rural areas, where many plantation workers were involved, and continued for the next two days. The police met particularly strong resistance at Byera Hill, Campden Park and Stubbs, where demands for land and for higher wages were heard. The state of emergency was continued for three weeks.

There is no doubt that the inspirational leader of the rebellion was the working class leader, Samuel ‘Sheriff’ Lewis. ‘Sheriff’ played the principal agitational role that excited and mobilized the masses. He was also popularly known as ‘Selassie’ because of his advocacy of the cause of Ethiopia, which was invaded by the Italian fascist forces of Mussolini. Bertha Mutt also played a leadership role in the rebellion, and was known as ‘Mother Selassie’.

These nick-names are interesting because they show that, even on a far away Caribbean island, there was concern about an invasion by a European power of an independent African kingdom.

In the popular mind, George McIntosh, who had advocated for the downtrodden, was hailed as the leader and brain of the 1935 rebellion, but he played no role at all. A month after the rebellion, McIntosh was arrested on a charge of treason felony. McIntosh had, in fact, denounced the act of righteous indignation of the people as “acts of savagery.” The case against him collapsed at the preliminary examination before the Magistrate.

However, along with ‘Sheriff’ Lewis, Donald ‘Poor Fellow’ Romeo, Donald Peters, Martin Durham, Clifford ‘Hitme-hard’ Hinds, Verrol Rose and Sam McCarthy were arrested, charged and jailed by the colonial authorities for treason.

Some of us arrogantly think that we are standing on our own two feet; but we are standing on the shoulders of giants. ‘Sheriff’ Lewis and his band of working class warriors certainly paved the way for Mc Intosh, Joshua, Cato, Mitchell, Eustace and Gonsalves. The only reason his name is not mentioned for hero status is because of class bias; but it was ‘Sheriff’ Lewis and other rebellious leaders across the Caribbean who panicked the British ruling class, and forced it to implement reforms that make us into who we are today.”

This piece first appeared on May 18, 2012 entitled, ‘Sheriff Lewis is a National Hero’.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

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12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

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Preliminary trade statistics show SVG economy getting worse THE RECENT TRADE statistics for the SVG economy show that both imports and exports are shrinking. Imports for Jan to Sep 2013 were $744m. However, for Jan to Sep 2014, imports had dropped to $713m, representing a significant drop of $31m. Exports for the corresponding periods, fell from $83m in 2013 to $78m in 2014.

Shrinkage in both exports and imports shows that households and businesses have less money to spend.

There is no money circulating around the country, as much of households’ and businesses’ money is soaked up in high electricity bills and high taxation rates.

The consequences of a shrinking economy will be more businesses being forced to close, an increase in unemployment and an increase in criminality.

The highly incompetent ULP regime is bankrupt of ideas to stimulate economic growth, and financially incompetent. After 13 years of failing to create sustainable revenue, the ULP regime has virtually destroyed the SVG economy. All around the country, people say how hard life is, and how difficult it is to make a few dollars. Hardship seems to be the staple diet of our country.

SVG Green Party Leader, Ivan O’Neal, believes that substantial change and structural adjustment are

needed if there is to be any hope of creating a strong economy. The SVG economy needs a variety of revenue-creating industrial sectors that can create thousands of new jobs for our people.

In order to attract sustainable sources of foreign investment, we must create a highly skilled workforce.

SVG needs, therefore, our own science and technology university and a number of vocational training centres.

In Germany, training for many vocations is provided by means of a dual programme of training and education. Apprentices spend three to four days a week at a company providing vocational training, where they acquire the practical skills required for their field of work. The remaining one or two days are spent at a vocational school, where apprentices receive a theoretical grounding in their future jobs.

An apprenticeship lasts between two and three-anda-half years.

The table shows that the ULP regime has massively under-funded education and training for our young people, consigning them to a life of poverty and unemployment. The lack of education and training for young people hinders their ability to become entrepreneurs and start their own business. This has a

knock-on effect of shrinking the economy, as more young people leave school under-educated and undertrained.

(Source SVG Budgets - Researched by Ivan O’Neal BSc Hons, MSc, MBA) A Green government will substantially increase the amount of money put towards education and training.

We will tax the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan, and put this money into our children’s education and future. We will build a university in SVG and vocational training centres.

One of the best ways to create innovative, sustainable sources of revenue for our country is to educate our people and skill our workforce. If we do this, our economy will grow, not shrink, and there will be thousands of new jobs for our people.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Dr. Robert France to receive coveted award

THE INSTITUTE of Caribbean Studies (ICS) will honour Robert B. France, Ph.D. as a notable Caribbean-American, for Excellence in Science and Technology for his longterm commitment, leadership and achievements in Scientific Research, Education and Service.

He will be presented with the award at the 21st Annual Caribbean American Heritage (CARAH) Award Gala, to be held on November 14th at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC. Dr. France was born in Jamaica of Vincentain heritage, and raised in Guyana and St. Vincent

and the Grenadines.

He graduated from the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine in 1984, with a BSc. (First Class Hons.), majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics.

He attended Massey University in New Zealand under a Commonwealth Scholarship, where he

graduated with a Ph.D. in Computer Science in 1990.

Dr. France is currently a Full Professor of Computer Science at Colorado State University, College of Natural Sciences, and is renowned for his work as a leading researcher in the area of model-based software engineering. His research focuses on producing technologies for building highly reliable complex software systems, such as aircraft flight management systems, and targets safety-critical software in which failures can lead to loss of life or expose vulnerable sectors of society. In addition, Professor France is a highly regarded international speaker, and has given numerous keynote talks, tutorials and Summer School lectures on his work across the world.

He has been a Visiting Professor and Researcher at UWI-Mona, Jamaica; University of Technology, Jamaica; Sintef, Norway; Lancaster University, UK; University of Rennes, France; University of Pau, France; University of Nice, France; and New University of Lisbon, Portugal. He has also worked with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on providing computer programming and network courses at the National Institute for Technology.

Professor France is a founding editor-in-chief of the Springer journal on Software and Systems Modeling. He has authored and published hundreds of collaborated journals and several books.

Among the outstanding

awards he has received are: Ten Year Most Influential Paper in 2008, together with his collaborators’ 1998 paper, on formalizing the UML, a standard modeling language used in many industries to enable the development of safetycritical systems; one of five computer scientists from around the world awarded a 5-year International Chair at INRIA, the French National Institute for research and Computational Sciences in 2013;; (2014) a Senior Dahl-Nygaard Award, as pioneer and visionary, for his long-term research contributions to formalizing software modeling languages, by AITO, the international Computer Science nonprofit research association in 2014.

Professor France was also awarded a Colorado State University, College of Natural Sciences Professor Laureate in 2014.

The Excellence in Science and Technology Award recognizes an individual of Caribbean descent who epitomizes commitment, leadership and unmatched contributions to expanding awareness about Science and Technology in the Caribbean and on the global stage.

“We note your leadership and influence among the academic elite in your discipline of computer science at the global level. We also view with utmost respect, your commitment to promoting diversity through your champion of the next generation of programmers, by way of awards earned through research and for teaching

Dr. Robert France has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at producing technologies for building highly reliable complex software systems. at Colorado State University. You make us extremely proud to claim you as one of us, and we wish to commend and honour you,” said ICS President and Founder, Dr. Claire Nelson.

Professor France will join six other extraordinary CaribbeanAmericans who are being honoured by ICS for their accomplishments in art, culture, corporate stewardship, education, entrepreneurship and medicine.

The Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS), founded in 1993, is a nonpartisan, non-profit, 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to policy analysis, advocacy and education on issues that advance the interests of Caribbean Americans. Its Caribbean American Heritage (CARAH) Awards were instituted in 1994 by the Institute of Caribbean Studies in order to demonstrate the contributions that Caribbean immigrants make to the United States.

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14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

BOSVG Theatre Arts Festival opens this weekend THE BANK OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ (BOSVG) Theatre Arts Festival, organized by the Ministry of Culture, was officially launched here on Tuesday 14th October, 2014.

At a ceremony held at the bank’s Bedford Street location, BOSVG Senior Marketing Officer, Omari France, stated the bank has been involved in the Theatre Arts Festival since its inception in 2005, and it was pleased, this year, to be part of the planning and

development committee, in addition to continuing its financial support for the festival.

France also accorded recognition to the Festival’s Co-ordinator, Martin Quashie, Drama Development Officer of the Ministry of Culture.

The Festival, which is in its ninth (9th) year, will run from November 7th to December 7th, 2014. Five groups are slated to make presentations.

These are Remnants of Gideon, Police Drama Club,

Right: Omari France, BOSVG Senior Marketing Officer, pointed to an increased role his bank plays in the planning and organization of the National Theatre Arts Festival. the Agape Methodist, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College Performing Arts Society (PAS) and the Division of Nursing Education Performing Arts Club (DONEPAC).

Speaking on behalf of the performing groups, Kevin Rodriguez, Managing Director

Shadeisha George, Miss SVG 2014 and BOSVG representative, hands over sponsorship cheque to a member of the Division of Nursing Education Performing Arts Club.

Agape Methodist Dramatist, noted that significant changes have taken place. He alluded in particular, to the effort aimed at promoting unity among the performing groups,

with emphasis now being placed on the quality of production rather that the element of competition.

Patrons are encouraged to attend the festival, as each group promises to thrill the audience with its performance.

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks arrive Bank of Nova Scotia, and they were brought from an American firm, THREE NEW AIRCRAFT RESCUE Oshkosh. The loan also financed the and Fire Fighting trucks for purchase of a few concrete trucks. operation at the Argyle Dr. Matthias declared that by the International Airport have end of year, more than 95% of the arrived here, in advance of the construction work at the airport would opening of the airport scheduled be completed. for mid-2015.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. The trucks were purchased Ralph Gonsalves expressed pleasure by the International Airport with the arrival of the three trucks. He Development Company (IADC said they had to be ordered according ) at a cost of USD 2.7 Million. to specifications which were provided CEO of IADC, Dr. Rudy by technical persons.

Matthias, described the In addition to the vehicles, a container of spare parts also arrived.

One of the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Units to be deployed at the international arrival of the fire fighting trucks as another important The trucks have capacity for 3,300 airport. day in the long march to the gallons of water, 460 gallons of AFFP much awaited opening and Stroke FFP Concentrate and 550 operationalization of the airport. pounds of dry chemical.

Speaking on Monday, November 3, As a result of the arrival of the fire at the Campden Park Container Port trucks, the Prime Minister said he has where where the trucks were stored given consent for the employment of 20 awaiting movement to temporary additional workers in the Fire location at the E. T. Joshua Airport, Department. There would also be Dr. Matthias said the trucks were promotion for 1 inspector, 2 sergeant bought by the IADC and held in and 6 corporals.

Wisconsin, USA .

Technical persons from Oshkosh are He explained that the Rescue/Fire expected here to train persons in the Trucks formed part of several pieces of operation of the vehicles, and to train equipment required to make the maintenance personnel. airport operational.

“And all that is what we pay for in The financing for the trucks came the price,” Gonsalves disclosed. from an EC$ 10 million loan from the

by KENVILLE HORNE

Some of the 20 additional workers who will be assigned to the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting services at the international airport.

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16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Calypso Tent reverses Reajhaun Baptiste: A Vincentian Dynamite results: Supadex musician at the next level outraged

A passionate and spirited expression characterises Reajhaun’s performance with Starlift in a Panorama Competition.

by HAYDN HUGGINS AT AGE NINE, Reajhaun ‘Dixie’ Baptiste was introduced to the steel pan at the then Richmond Hill Primary School, under the guidance of Francis ‘Pess’ Llewellyn, pan tuner and tutor.

Twenty years later, Reajhaun is promoting his first CD entitled, ‘Reajhaun Baptiste the next level – A journey through soulful renditions’.

The 29-year-old Vincentian graduate of the Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts of Jamaica, was here recently doing promotional work for his CD, produced by another talented young Vincentian, Darron Andrews, and arranged by Darron and Reajhaun.

The CD features Reajhaun on the tenor pan on 13 tracks, and another track featuring Darron on the violin.

In an interview with THE VINCENTIAN last Friday, October 31, Reajhaun said the compilation was an interpretation of

Younger but no less enthusiastic.

his favourite songs by world renowned artistes, including John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Witney Houston and David Rudder.

He disclosed that in the near future, he would be working on an album with his original compositions.

Developing the passion Reajhaun cited hard work, focus, determination and courage, as being responsible for his success thus far.

“From age 13, I knew what I wanted and where I wanted to reach. I have not reached there yet, but I

have seen a lot of progress over the years,” he said.

The young man admitted that at first he showed no interest in the steel pan, but was encouraged by relatives and friends to get involved. The then Richmond Hill Primary School, which he attended, had just started a steel orchestra, and he decided to give it a try.

It was from that point that he developed a passion for the art form, and in 1999, as a 15-year-old student of the then Emmanuel High School, Kingstown, he attended a summer programme organized by the Montrose-based Starlift Steel Orchestra.

On graduating from that programme, he joined Starlift and has remained a member.

Needless to say, he worked tirelessly on enhancing his knowledge and skills in the art of pan playing.

And driven by this new passion, he attended classes offered by veteran pannist, educator and arranger, Ashley Kirby, from whom he learned music theory and approaches to jazz improvisation, which helped to prepare him for entry into the Edna Manley College in 2009.

Jamaica and Beyond On the completion of his four-year study programme at Edna Manley College in 2013, Reajhaun obtained a Bachelor’s in Jazz and Popular Music Studies, with honours.

During that time, he also received an honours recital award for outstanding performance in music as a soloist, and attained the Vibarth Seaforth Award for musical excellence.

By this time, he had put together a band of his own and performed at the 2013 and 2104 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festivals,

Reajhaun ‘Dixie’ Baptiste (left) pictured with Vincentian-born, internationally acclaimed saxophonist Syl McIntosh.

myself with all styles and genres of music, because my aim is to be a well-rounded musician and performer,” he said.

And in all of that, he holds Ashley Kirby in high regard, and recognises the likes of Starliff Manager and Cultural Ambassador Errol ‘Sardo’ Sutherland, the band’s captain Roddy Dowers, its arranger Kingsley ‘Hero’ Roberts, Lennox and Rolland Bowman, as having contributed to his development.

He is particularly thankful to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and his government for providing the opportunity for study, and to former Minister of Culture, René Baptiste, for her motivational nurturing and guidance.

Still a young man himself, his life experiences to date move him to advise younger persons thus: “If you have any dreams, aspirations, passion or love for anything, just give it a try, and keep on going until you reach the level you want to reach. It would not be easy, there would be challenges, but success favours the brave.”

THE VINCENTIAN wishes Reajhaun all the best in his future endeavours.

and toured North America, South America, Africa and the Caribbean, during which he had the distinction of sharing the stage with several international artistes, including Michael Bolton, Mary J. Blige and John Legend, and reggae performers Taurus Riley, Cherine Anderson and Busy Reajhaun Baptiste Signal. in a solo performance Motivation at Stalift Steel Orchestra’s Reajhaun plays all ‘Celebrate with the pans, but his Friends’ concert, favourite is the double December 2009. second, though, on most occasions, he uses the high tenor.

He finds motivation from the work of world renowned Trinidadian pannists like Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe, Duvonne Stewart and Andy Narrel.

“I enjoy music that gives me a challenge or requires deeper focus and concentration, especially music from jazz and classical genres,” Reajhaun said, and intimated that he also enjoys listening to classical musicians like Beethoven and Mozart, as well as jazz composers Charlie Parker and Chick Corea.

“I try to familiarize

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

Franklyn ‘Supadex’ Richards complained that transparency and clarity were lacking in the manner in which the matter was handled.

A WEEK AFTER ANNOUNCING the results of the inaugural New York Vincy Independence Calypso Competition, the Brooklyn-based Dynamite Calypso Tent has reversed the winners of the first and second runners-up positions.

“It is now official! Dynamite Independence Competition that was held at Café Omar on 10/24/14 now have (has) the final results,” said the tent on its Facebook page early Sunday morning, revealing that Dennis Bowman, who was initially announced as the winner, remains in first place with 242 points.

But second place went to John Dougan, with 240 points, and third position to Earl ‘Exposer’ Isles, with 232 points.

“Sorry for the earlier mix-up, and again thanking (thanks to) everyone who came out to celebrate with us and wishing SVG (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) a happy 35th Independence,” the statement added. “Next year, we will be bigger and better.”

The reversal, therefore, means that Franklyn ‘Supadex’ Richards and ‘Brother Don’, who were declared first and second runners-up, respectively, on Nov. 24, clearly, did not place in the top three.

President explains Ainsley Primus, president of the Dynamite Calypso Tent, told THE VINCENTIAN, in an exclusive interview, that 12 members of the tent – including some of the calypsonians who competed in the inaugural event – met last Saturday night and unanimously agreed to the reversal.

He confirmed the latest results on Facebook and added that ‘Jakie’ had placed fourth, with 228 points; ‘Supadex’ fifth, with 224; and ‘Brother Don’ sixth, with 219 points.

Primus said members were shown the judges’ score sheet, supposedly with the accurate tally, indicating that the auditor, Ulric Tyrell, an Arnos Vale native like Primus, had erred in tabulating the scores.

The president also confirmed that Tyrell, ‘Supadex’, ‘Brother Don’ and judges Monty Constance and Samuel ‘Kala’ Gordon were absent from the meeting. Constance, who was vacating in New York, had since returned home.

“I take all the blame for all that happened. ….. I try my best to do

things the right and honest way.

Honesty is the best policy for me. …. If that’s the way the judges scored it (competition), it’s best for me.,” Primus said.

“I feel bad for Supadex and Brother Don,” Primus added.

“It’s my responsibility to clear the air, because I don’t want people to say we’re cheating.”

Ainsley Primus, President of the Dynamites Calypso Tent, explained that the auditor had made a mistake in tabulating the scores. sheet from us and add it up,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. “In tabulating the results, he made a mistake.”

‘Superdex’ outraged

As the controversy brews, Supadex has cried foul, expressing outrage with the reversal of the public announcement.

“Clarity and transparency were clearly absent (as well as) a lack of protocol and profesOther reactions John Dougan was sionalism,” Supadex told declared, on the recount, THE VINCENTIAN. “The When the initial the 1st runner –up. problem with the results of results were the show stems from the announced by co-Maspresident having chosen ter of Ceremonies someone to be the auditor, Hailes Castello, ‘Brother without letting the rest of Don’ stormed out of the the calypso tent know about venue and, therefore, it. was not present to “Adding to that, protoaccept his trophy. col wasn’t followed,” he Additionally, some added. “The judges were patrons booed when supposed to judge and the top three tally the results, and the positions were auditor was supposed to announced, patently double-check the results. voicing their vehement “What happened next objection to the results. depends on who you speak to When contacted, because, up to this point, no Tyrell offered “no onone has spoken to the auditor comment” on the issue. (except THE VINCENTIAN) , But judge CaulEarl ‘Exposer’ Isles who is being blamed for all dric Forbes, said: “It placed third when the this mix-up,” he continued. is what it is on the tabulation was corrected. “The person, who was chosen score sheet. It’s just to be the auditor, wasn't that the auditor announced at the show, wasn't notified presented wrong information to the to the tent/calypsonians, and the only MCs (the other MC was Bennett persons who knew about this were the Straker). judges and the president.”

“And in the end, Dynamite Calypso Besides ‘Jakie’, ‘Supadex’, ‘Brother Tent fixed the problem and gave the Don’, Bowman, Dougan and ‘Exposer’, prizes to the actual winners,” he other contenders in the historic event added. were: ‘Striker’, ‘Fabulous T’, ‘Wise Judge Gordon also claimed that the Guy’, ‘Jose Juan’, ‘Groovy D’ and ‘John procedure Tyrell used “wasn’t the Cumbay’. correct one.

“He was supposed to take the score

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18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

People

A Tribute to Mama did anything she deemed was wrong, no matter how much we avoided her, a WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, good licking was her way 2014 will be remembered of resolving the issue. She as a special day in the lives insisted that we attend of the family of Florence school regularly and, in Morgan, our Mama. This her limited way, as she matriarch of our family has was denied the defied all the odds, opportunity to complete overcoming many her primary education, challenges to make it to she always assisted us 100 years. with our homework.

What an important Despite the fact that milestone! What a she was married, her blessing too, that her husband spent many mental facility remains years away from his intact, her vision (both family, working overseas physical and mental) to support us, thus forcing clear, her hearing good her to perform dual roles and her appetite hearty. as mother and father. She After surviving two worked on the plantation strokes and fractured as a field hand, in the bones which prevented her factories, and engaged in from moving except with subsistence farming, the aid of someone, her which included livestock voice remains strong as rearing. She even worked she shouts commands as a domestic in order to from her bed. supplement the family’s An avid reader, a income. person who thirsts for Mama suffered many knowledge, she has kept forms of abuse as a child up to date on current and a young adult from issues, and remains a firm family members, but supporter of West Indies remained steadfast in her cricket. faith in God. So strong A disciplinarian she was her faith that was, as my other siblings she spent most of her will attest. Whenever we spare time attending

by ANCELMA MORGAN ROSE

Florence Morgan, SVG’s most recent centenarian. church and related activities. For us, Church was not an option but a MUST. She instilled in us certain values which have helped to shape us in the persons we have become.

And she nourished, nurtured and mentored many children and adults, and has been recognized for her contribution to community development.

Thank you, Mama, for being the mother, grandmother, and great grandmother you are. May God continue to bless and keep you.

Congratulations to...

MARIO AND KRYSTLE FRANCIS, Graduates of the Class of 2014, The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.

Mario Nicholai Francis received A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Accounting, with First Class Honours.

Krystle A. E. Francis received a Master of Science in Natural Resource and Environmental Management, specializing in Coastal Management, with Distinction.

Bradley and Charmaine Francis are the proud parents of Mario and Krystie.

Congratulations!

CONGRATULATIONS TO JEVILLE JOHN who graduated with a Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies Cavehill on 18th of October 2014. Jeville, a former student of the St. Vincent Grammar School and the St. Vincent Community College, is the son of Grenville John, lawyer and Comptroller of Customs and Excise, and Phyllis John of Evesham. The entire John family extends congratulations and best wishes to Jeville as he pursues the path of excellence.

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute

Eustace ‘Slums’ Maloney will be remembered as steadfast in his commitment and service to youths of Marriaqua.

Eustace ‘Slums’ Maloney (right playing saxophone) leading his Richland Park Melody Makers at the funeral procession of his schoolmate Gerald Primus, November 2013.

Another teacher passes on He was 56 years old.

Eustace Maloney’s teaching THE NOBLE TEACHING fraternity career spanned almost 40 is engulfed in an atmosphere of years, he having journeyed sadness, with the passing of one into the vineyard at the tender of its colleagues, Eustace age of 19.

‘Slums’ Maloney. Maloney, at During those 40 years he the time of his passing, was a served at the Union Island teacher assigned at the Government School, the Richland Park Government Evesham Methodist School School. and Richland Park Maloney succumbed to a Government School. blood clot last Friday 31st, His impact went beyond the while undergoing surgery at classroom. He relished in the Milton Cato Memorial spearheading extra-curricular Hospital, according to his activities — sporting and widow, Mrs. Shirlin Maloney. cultural — aimed at

by PATMOS RICHARDS

encouraging solid and productive students.

His involvement in cultural activities led him to active participation in the local calypso fraternity, which he served as both writer and judge.

However, ‘Slums’’s real extra-curricular calling, it would seem, was his insatiable passion and obsession with the development of the musical skills of the students at the Richland Park Government School’s.

Out of this passion and

obsession emerged the Richland Park Melody Makers, a musical outfit which has impacted numerous communities in St. Vincent, with their musical renditions at funeral ceremonies and at cultural events.

Additionally, Maloney was responsible for spearheading fundraising activities in Marriaqua, on behalf of a variety of charitable causes.

The Seventh Day Adventist Church of Richland Park officially recognised him in 2012 for his unstinting

commitment and service to the Marriaqua community.

Eustace Maloney was a man of humble disposition, well loved and respected by many inside and outside of his native Marriaqua. He won several friends on account of his ‘folksy’ character and demeanour.

His widow, Shirlin Maloney nee Wyllie, and their daughter, can rest assured that ‘Slums’ has gone on to higher heights to continue his work.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 23.

Business

Christmas 2014: Avoid disappointment Shop and Ship early

Christmas barrels will once again be allowed duty-free entry, during the period November 15 – December 31, 2014.

Inset: Ken Chitole – Owner of Eastern Caribbean Freight Lines (KLC). strife and changing import and export regulations, especially since 9/11, have resulted FOR THE LAST THREE in challenges that have to MONTHS of every year, be handled within hours, since 1981, Ken Chitole, to meet the tight time owner of KLC Shipping, constraints of loading (Eastern Caribbean Freight containers, which are Lines) located in Toronto, then moved by transport has been a modern day trucks some 1250 Santa Claus doing kilometers (850 miles) to everything humanly Halifax, Nova Scotia on possible to deliver tens of Canada’s East Coast, thousands of holiday where they are loaded on barrels and boxes from the ocean-going ships for the Greater Toronto area, long journey to St. Montreal and Ottawa to St. Vincent and the Vincent and the Grenadines.

Grenadines, in time for Throughout the years, Christmas celebrations. natural disasters, The annual, including last December’s unpredictable obstacles year-end disastrous caused by weather and floods, KLC has also sea conditions, labour stepped in on a voluntary

by BEN HARRISON – International Correspondent

basis to facilitate the shipping of emergency relief supplies requested by the Red Cross, NEMO and other agencies. Ken Chitole and his hard working KLC team have demonstrated year after year that KLC is everything a good corporate citizen should be.

THE VINCENTIAN interviewed Ken late last week and he assured us that everything is on schedule for what he expects to be an incredibly busy year.

This season, to improve customer service, he has leased a second warehouse in the same complex at 50 Tiffield Rd. Unit 15 in Scarborough, just for the St. Vincent overflow. This should eliminate the long lineups of clients delivering their shipments to the KLC warehouse every November. In spite of ever increasing business and shipping expense, there will be no increase in shipping cost for 2014.

Barring any land or sea weather related problems, the last day for barrels to reach the KLC warehouse in time for arrival in St. Vincent and the Grenadines by December 16th is the weekend of November 2930. Make this year a special year, and resolve to shop and ship early.

You can visit the KLC website at www.klc.com for up to date information.

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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

The wrong approach hours are from 7 am 3pm.

When I questioned I HAVE a feeling my wife is cheating on me. The last her, she told me things like she had to visit her few weeks she has been sick cousin who has to be getting home after 7 pm and sometimes later, and bathed and given supper, seeing that she cannot do she is not working overtime. Her normal work anything for herself since

Dear George,

the accident she had. I told her that I should come before her cousin, and furthermore, I did not believe that she is spending time with her cousin as she said she is.

Even in bed, she is not too interested, and if I do not come on to her, we will not sleep with each other for months and months. I feel like I am forcing sex on her, and it is not that we had any disagreements. As far as I am concerned, we have nothing negative going on between us to cause

her to behave this way.

This whole thing has me totally confused!

CONFUSED H Dear Confused H, To conclude that your wife is cheating without you having tangible evidence may be rushing into judgement.

Whether or not she is indeed spending time with her cousin, you are not handling the matter correctly.

This should have been communicated and discussed before taking on such a timeconsuming project. The fact that you mentioned your concerns to her without getting the response you envisioned, should be of additional concern. There seems to be more going on beside what is communicated, and you need to get to the bottom of it.

Whatever it is, it is carried over into the bedroom, which is not healthy. Get a counsellor to help both of you demolish the invisible wall that presently exists between you two.

George

All is not lost Dear George,

I AM WRITING to let all men out there know that they must never trust their wives or girlfriends, 100%.

I just caught my beautiful young wife cheating on me, and it has left me devastated. My wife is attending school here in Boston, and I would sometimes call her just to say hello, etc. I noticed that every time I call her, she is whispering to me, telling me that she is in the Library and cannot talk. I could never get to talk to her at all during the day.

One day, I went down to the library to take her something to eat. She was not there. I called her from there and asked her where she was. She replied that she was in the library, in her usual whispering voice, so I told her to tell me which part of the library she was in, because I was in the library and did not see her. The line went dead, and try as I could, I was not able to get her back.

She showed up an hour later with her hair all disorganized and the make-up completely off. She gave me some poor excuse. I walked away.

I have since divorced her, but still trying to get over the hurt. For the entire year she said she was studying, my wife was spending time with another man at his house. She got someone to lend her school notes, just to fool me into thinking she was studying. Women cannot and must never be trusted!

Hurt Dear Hurt, I cannot agree with you that women must never be trusted. It is wrong to make such a blanket statement. I, however, understand why you said what you said; it is because you have been terribly hurt by someone whom you totally trusted to be true to you.

Trust is something that must be earned, and sadly, some men and women do betray the trust of their partners/spouses, and this should be dealt with on merit.

After you have healed completely, you may be ready to love again and find someone who can give you reasons to love and trust them.

George

Forget about revenge telling me that I should be happy he used a I DO NOT KNOW what condom and that shows he is respecting my is going on in this little health. country of ours. I The thing is I was walked in on my husband having sex with able to use my cell phone to take a few of them in 3 women in my bed. my bed. I am seeking a This is so disrespectful! divorce presently and His defence for have in mind to release sleeping with these women is that I told him the pictures of these women so that their one time when we had husbands could know an argument, that if he wants to fool around, about their cheating ways. I am still in shock he is free to do so, just and did not expect this don’t bring home any sickness. This bold-face from my husband at all. husband of mine is

Dear George,

Disbelieving wife Dear D/Wife, Since it is your intention and plan to cut ties with your husband, and have, from all accounts, started the process of divorce, it is not advisable that you pursue the course of making public the photos of these women and your husband. That action will not serve any useful purpose.

Be contented with the fact that you are about to get rid of a man who has broken the bond and trust that held your marriage together.

Seeking revenge can be a stressful undertaking and can lead to ill health in the final analysis. Let it go and move on.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You need to fulfill your needs and pre sent your talents. Focus your efforts on details, and keep to yourself in order to finish your work. They won't pay you back and you'll be upset. Escapist tendencies will result in a poor reputation and a lack of confidence.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Try to make arrangements with close friends or relatives to spend a few days away. Don't try to hide your true feelings from your mate. Emotionally, things may not run so smoothly. You can finish projects early, which will bring you praise from superiors.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your position may be in question if you haven't been pulling your weight. You may find that your plans will cost a little more than you had expected. Travel should be on your mind. Get involved in a competitive sport that will bring the challenges you thrive on.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will find that money could slip through your fingers. Think twice before you agree to take on any new projects.

Opportunities for travel and socializing are evident. Don't be too quick to respond to a plea for help.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Compromise will be necessary. Don't hold yourself back because you think you're too old. Romantic relationships should stabilize. Don't hold back.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You will be extremely sensual; take precautions and don't take any risks.

You'll be dropping friends for no apparent reason. You will attract new love interests. The emotional state of peers may cause a problem for you.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Be sure to sidestep those who are

eccentric or unpredictable. Don't bother complaining, do the work yourself. You need to make your lover feel wanted, not like a piece of the furniture.

Involvement in groups will be favorable.

Business partnerships will prove lucrative.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Health problems may prevail if you haven't been getting enough rest. You can win if you're open and up front with your boss. You need an energetic outlet that will help you dissipate your anxiety.

Children may be on your mind.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order. Don't second guess yourself, just go to it. Self-improvement projects will payoff in more ways than one. Get back into a routine that promises a better looking, more aware individual.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. You can ask for favors and get sound advice from close friends or relatives. Group endeavors will provide you with entertainment. Put your efforts into making constructive improvements to your environment and to your state of mind.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) You must look into your options. Your emotions may get the better of you. Do not invest in joint ventures. You need to get down to basics with regard to yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Consider starting a small business on the side. Look for a marketable gimmick. You may have difficulty trying to get your mate to understand your position. You should be raising your self esteem and confidence in order to promote your work. Help those incapable of taking care of their personal affairs.

ACROSS

48. lota 49. __ Patrick 1.Cape __, MA Harris 4. Tobacco holder 50. Three, in 8. Rib, for one Rome 12. Former airline 51. Foster’s 13. Hymn’s end costar in 14. Like a big fan “Sommersby” 15. B‐ball official 52. A few 16. What a dieter 53. Very wide measures shoe width 18. Sawyer’s pal 20. Ancient DOWN 21. Places for tabs 23. Waffle brand 1.Middle (abbr.)

25. Caesar and 2. Have bills others 3. Yellow flower 26. Pertaining to 4. Chess pieces water 5. “__ Old 29. Friend (Fr.) Cowhand” 30. Slips over (2 wds.)

31. Omaha’s state 6. Canadian (abbr.) prov.

33. Tableland 7. O’Toole’s 35. Rover’s friend rank (abbr.)

36. Combustible 8. Voting paper material 9. Roman writer 37. Stretchy fabric 10. Innings 38. Reprimand count, 41. Long skirt usually 42. Deli order 11. Genesis (2 wds.) locale 45. Liable (to) 17. Roman

robes 19. “__ My Party” 21. Govt. agcy.

22. Wilted 23. Fifty‐fifty 24. Hindu teacher 26. Skipper’s direction 27. Start 28. Yield territory 30. Wall beams 32. Cardboard __ 34. Burning 35. Modern

office machine 37. Large dipper 38. Bambi’s father 39. Adorable 40. __ about (approximately,

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 25.

2 wds.)

41. Cripple 43. Reply (abbr.)

44. Feline zodiac sign 46. Before (prefix) 47. Kickoff device

26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 27.

Dominica, Grenada share Windwards cricket title

DOMINICA AND GRENADA came away joint champions of the 2014 Windward Islands Men’s Senior cricket, when they gained first innings points in their third round matches against St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) respectively.

Both countries entered the third round on 10 points each, ehoping that the other would falter.

That was not to be.

The St. Lucians seemed set to make it difficult for the Dominicans when they totaled 242 in their first innings, thanks to Greig Emmanuel, who topscored with 92, Dennis Louis and Gary Maturin 29 and Tarrick Gabriel 21.

Not to be outdone, Kavin Hodge set about dismantling the St. Lucia attack on his way to amassing a stroke-filled 162, ensuring that Dominica could declare at 330 for 6 wickets.

St. Lucia’s Johnson Charles made good use of his team’s second turn at the crease to race to 103 not out, as St Lucia reached 174 for 1 when play was called off.

The Grenadians took first knock against the Vincentians and posted a disappointing 151 all out.

Tyrone Theophile stroked 137 as Dominica’s stand-in captain against SVG. Stalwart opener Devon Smith, 58, offered the only resistance to the spin duo of Alston Bobb, 4 for 43, and Heron Cottoy, 4 for 41.

Any satisfaction the Vincentians had gained from their bowling performance was quickly turned into dismay, as they were dismissed for 149, Alston Bobb continuing to shine, this time with the bat, topscoring with 25. Pacer Nelon Pascal took 4 for 43.

Grenada, batting a second time, battled to 161 for 8 when play was

Kavim Hodge hit 162 for Dominica against St. Lucia, to record the tournament’s highest individual score.

Johnson Charles hit 103 not out in a losing effort for St Lucia against Dominica.

TyroneTheophile, who accounted for 137 in his Liam Sebastien led from country’s reply of 285. the front with 127 Keron Cottoy picked up 5 against Grenada. for 69. coming from Rommel In the other round two called, Devon Smith Currency, 84, Miles match, St. Lucia made repeating as top scorer Bascombe 67, Keron 186 against Grenada.

Round Two with 68, and Heron Cottoy 56.

Captain Craig Campbell hit 30. Alston St. Lucia in reply, In round two, SVG lost Emmanuel topscored Bobb doing likewise as were dismissed for 269. on first innings points to with 51. Denis George 3 top Vincentian bowler Keddy Lesporis led the for 35. Grenada replied Dominica. The with 3 for 45. batting with 86 and Vincentians, fielding an with 266. Denis Smith Tarrick Gabriel hit 63. unchanged team from hit 86 and Devon Smith First Round Cottoy and Bobb took 4 their first match, elected 56. Bowling for St. Lucia, and 3 wickets Gary Mathurin took 4 for to bat first and were In the first round of respectively. dismissed for 201 in 58 45. matches, SVG took first SVG batted a second overs, with Captain St. Lucia in the second innings points over St. time and were 61 for 0 innings reached 102 for Lindon James leading Lucia. The Vincentians 6. Johnson Charles hit with 61. recorded what was to be when play ended.

In another first round Dominica were forced 69. Nelon Pascal took 3 the Tournament’s match, Dominica made to make one change, for 27. highest innings total of 276 against Grenada.

Defending Champions Liam Sebastian having 379 for 7 declared, Windward Islands SVG had to settle for to withdraw after batting well into the captain Liam Sebastein sustaining an injury in third position. second day. Donwell led by example with a the match against Hector was the main contributor with 97, with classy 127. Bowling for Grenada; but they found Stories by I.B.A.ALLEN Grenada, Denis George 5 leadership in half centuries also for 51. Grenada at the end of a rain affected match were 166 for 7, Devon Smith topscoring with 95. Ray Casimir took 5 for 62.

Grenadines Basketball concludes this weekend THE DIGICEL GRENADINES Basketball Championship continued in Canouan this past weekend, setting up what is expected to be an exciting climax this weekend.

At the Canouan Hard Court, the outcome of Friday night’s game between Bequia All Stars and Union Island All Stars was deemed an upset, when favourites, Union Island All Stars, went under to Bequia.

Bequia continued in good form, winning over Canouan Islanders in a match in which they almost gave away a healthy lead.

Union Island bounced back

from the defeat by Bequia to record victories over Mayreau Kings and Canouan.

Mayreau were the whipping boys of last weekend’s round, gong under in their three matches.

The stage is now set for an exciting conclusion in Bequia this weekend.

The semi-finals and finals are scheduled for November 7th and 8th respectively.

On November 7th, the Union Island All Stars, 2013 defending Champions currently in first place, will play the 4th placed team, Mayreau Kings, while Bequia, 2nd placed, is slated to

play Canouan, 3rd placed.

Saturday night will see the losers of Friday’s semis competing for the third place position, to be followed by the final.

An awards ceremony will follow Saturday’s final.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Action in the Digicel Grenadines Basketball Championship has been exciting and wellpatronized, according to reports.

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28. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

LevyÊs death shocks local sports persons then, unconfirmed reports that the Jamaican had died tragically in Puerto Rico, MICHAEL ‘MERCY’ OLLIVIERRE and Woodrow where he was based.

Subsequent reports ‘Killy’ Williams, two of this said that his demise country’s came at his own hands, coaches/administrators, have expressed shock over but no obvious reasons the death of Lenford Levy, were determined more than a week after the Director of the IAAF tragedy.

Regional Development Ollivierre said that he Centre (RDC) in Puerto and Levy had forged a Rico.

Reports say that Levy, friendship going back more than three decades, a Jamaican, was found dead at his office in what from their days of coaching in rural some sources say was a Jamaica. suicide.

“We worked together The RDC has, as one of its primary objectives, and always remained in close contact, and my the training and return to St. Vincent did development of coaches not change that. In fact, in this region. it was he who In describing his recommended me for the immediate feelings, Level Five Programme, Ollivierre said: “I am and I am grateful for his wounded….I am hurt ……I have lost a serious support.”

Ollivierre said that he brethren.” emailed Levy a few days It was Ollivierre who prior to his death about a broke what was to him

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

matter, and his response, when he put into perspective, came across a little disinterested.

Another Vincentian who had close connection with Levy is Coach/Sports Administrator, Woodrow ‘Killy’ Williams.

“This like slap to me.

I am so numb and still hoping it’s a dream. It is real hard for me to take,” Williams said from his home upon hearing the news.

Williams said that he got to know the Jamaican about twenty years ago while attending a regional IAAF course, and their friendship had remained intact.

On the manner of his friend’s death, Williams was confounded.

“He was one of the strongest individuals that I have ever known.

He was the last person I

Michael ‘Mercy’ Ollivierre spoke of a ‘brethren’ with whom he had had an association that transcended three decades. philosophically, “But again, pressure will make the strongest of men buckle sometimes, and we never knew what Woodrow ‘Killy’ Williams finds it difficult was going on his life at to relate the character of the time.”

Team Athletics SVG the man, Lenford Levy, (TASVG), the governing to someone taking his body here for track and own life. field, issued a statement on Levy’s death. The would have expected to statement read in part, take his own life.

Lenford was just able to “TASVG has learned of find a solution for almost the death of Mr. Lenford any situation,” Williams Levy, the Director of the IAAF Regional said.

Development Centre He added,

Lenford Levy is believed to have committed suicide. (Photo: Grenada Sports) (RDC) in Puerto Rico.

“Certainly we are quite surprised at his sudden passing, as we were in contact with him during last week and knew of no illness.

“This is certainly a moment of sadness for the NACAC family. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family”, it ended.

And the IAAF, on its website, stated that Levy’s death is a great loss to athletics.

Police exert authority AFTER a break for the Independence celebrations, action resumed last weekend, with the penultimate preliminary round, in the Hairoun/ Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club’s 2014 Firms Dominoes Competition.

Police (long side) In a game Authority. played on Friday 31st October, Police exerted their authority over Port Authority, whipping them 25 to 8.

Saturday’s match between Transport and Works and the Mini Bus Association was relatively more competitive. Transport and Works were eventual winners, 25 to 19.

did not ease up on the men from Port

Games in the final preliminary round are scheduled for this weekend, at the Kingstown Anglican School.

Today, Friday, Police battle Transport and Works, beginning at 6:30pm. On Saturday, Government Printery square off against the Mini Bus Association, also at 6:30pm.

As it stands going into the final preliminary round, defending champions, CWSA, lead the standings with 30 points.

The competition runs until November Mini Buss Association (short side) caved in to their 29, 2014. supervising authority, Transport and Works.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 29.

Sports

Sion Hill pair runs into record book

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Good will or discord OF ALL THE JOURNEYS we have ever made, this one has taken us to a critical juncture. It will be hard for us to stomach, no matter how it is resolved.

The players have made their point and have been justified by the way the negotiations are taking place on the impasse.

They will not have anything with the US$42 M that the Indians are calling for as losses in the mildest settlement.

The Indian 14 will be eligible for the South African tour, and having been guaranteed a no discrimination clause, they will be in line for selection to the World Cup in March next year as well.

The Board will have to fashion a way out of the financial chasm. But there is a festering wound that indicates that there are more upheavals.

Caribbean Prime Ministers may try their best to bring sanity to the scenario. They have their economies to stabilise. And what better of guaranteeing an injection into the region than a cricket tour.

The West Indies Cricket board has become so used to having its way, that no persuasion affects them.

Like the collapse of Clico and British American Insurance Companies and the banks in many parts of the western hemisphere, the Board will be given a ‘bail out,’ which in this case regional citizens will have to pay for.

It will be difficult for future West Indies Cricket teams. The breakdown in trust between each other has gotten so bad that there will hardly be a return to the spirit of unity which the team symbolised over the years.

There might be an image of goodwill. But beneath that facade of harmony will be an undercurrent of discord which will explode unless strategically managed.

We have cultivated an appetite for destruction, and the traits have taken off on a horse which is galloping in open pastures.

By the time we tame it, the turf will have been so trampled that it will take time to reshape it.

There must have been a breakdown in communication. With the tendency for persons to be selfish, we have lost the art of collective survival.

We prefer to flounder into an ocean of survival of the individual only. We don’t see that such an approach will not succeed.

The road we have reached has brought a burden, comparable to the cross of biblical times.

But there is no remission of sins here, and we are heading on the path to destruction.

We bypass the narrow way, on which righteousness prevails. It is a global phenomenon, and we believe that if we don’t follow the trend, we are not part of the game.

We have to look at ourselves. See what image we get. If we do not solve our problems, no one is going to get them fixed. There must be a way to end this squabble.

Cricket has been a platform of Caribbean existence. We have a duty to preserve it.

THE SION HILL MASTERS pair of Ronald Medford and William “Bill” Edwards set a local cricket record when they scored nine runs off a single delivery.

The feat was recorded in a match against Kingstown Masters in the National Masters T20 Cricket competition on Sunday, November 2nd, 2014, at the main Arnos Vale Playing Field.

The historic moment began when Medford turned a ball into the onside off the bowling of Ancell Hooper for a single. An overthrow saw the batsmen taking another run. With the fielder holding onto the ball a bit too long, Medford called Edwards through for a ‘cheeky’ third run. The ball was then over thrown and the batsmen scrambled two more runs, which resulted in a throw at the stump as they completed the fifth run, missing and speeding off to the boundary at the Bequia End. But before the exact record was settled upon, confusion took centre stage, with one umpire (L-R): William ‘Bill’ Edwards (34) seeks runs through signalling six and four, indicating that ten runs the offside and Ronald Medford (34) swings to leghad been scored. The other official, the more senior the pair scored a record nine runs off a single ball of the two, then signalled eight. But after a on Sunday. reliving of the event by the players and officials, it Pastures reached 105, with “Titmus” Trimmingham was finally settled as nine runs, and a place in 23 and Alvin Hope 19 being the leading batsmen. history.

Sigmund Allen 2/1 and Parnell Browne 2/27 led the No one in attendance could remember anything RSVG Police bowling. more than seven runs being scored off of a single Gosnell Cupid (28) and Parnel Browne (23*) then ball here in SVG. helped the lawmen counter Hope’s (4/16) attempts The match saw Sion Hill Masters beating to derail the victory train. Once again the Kingstown by 61 runs. policemen looked to be coasting to a certain victory SCORES: Sion Hill Masters 143/5 20 overs, when Cupid and captain Trevor Bailey (13) had put Kingstown Masters 82 in 19.1 overs. on 43 for the first wicket, but once again the slide Sion Hill Masters won the toss and decided to came which saw them being 78/5 and nervous looks take first knock, and despite seeing McNeil “Taste” directed at the middle. It was left to Browne, who Morgan sending down five wides in his first and found an able partner in Jason Laborde (15*), to see only over, were pegged back earlier on after losing them over the line off the first ball of the 15th over. the inform Keon Jack (16). Jack and Nicholas Duncan (11) had raised 40 for the first wicket, but it took all of ten overs. Jack was brilliantly caught by Bryan Alexander, diving one-handed at midwicket.

The usually loquacious Alexander, as if shocked by his own moment of magic, appeared lost for words as he was seen running around the field holding the AFTER THE SVG Rugby Union’s successful entry ball aloft but uttering no sound! Duncan, whose into primary and secondary schools here with their slothful pace created some early pressure on the Get into Rugby, the International Rugby Board batting team, went shortly after. It was then left to (IRB) has chosen St. Vincent to pilot a new Edwards (34) and Medford (34) to up the tempo in initiative linked to the programme, but aimed at record-breaking fashion as they added 43 for the third wicket. Edwards girls.

As such, therefore, the Union is preparing for the struck one six and one launch of the ‘Girls Get into Rugby’ programme, four, while Medford which is aimed at empowering women and girls who was celebrating through tag rugby. his birthday, struck New coach and Youth Programme Coordinator, two sixes, one four and Rory Tonkin, has been in St. Vincent for a month a nine. Syl Vanloo, now, and has been busy attending various schools who added a further 33 with Medford, made across St. Vincent, as well as working with the National team who are preparing for a 7s 19*. Hooper took 2/30. tournament in Mexico in December.

Kingstown in reply The girls specific Get into Rugby will launch never got into the November 19th and includes a training day for any chase after losing half PE teachers, YES workers, coaches, Union their side with only 24 members or anyone else interested in getting runs on the board. involved with coaching kid’s rugby.

Brain Davis 3/8, The launch will conclude with a big fun day at Medford 2/27, the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex on Saturday 22nd Augustine Victory 2/8 November 2014 from 9am. were the most President, Sophie Goddard, said “It’s an exciting successful bowlers, time for the Union as we prepare for the launch of with Andrew Bramble the Girls GIR which will hopefully encourage more conceding 14 runs girls to get involved”, Goddard said. Research has from his four overs. shown that sports are a great way to help girls In the morning develop into leaders on and off the field. Rugby can fixture, RSVG Police make a huge impact, and GIR is a great way to get Parnel Browne took 2/27 started. and hit a crucial 23 not out beat Pastures by five wickets. to see Police to victory Batting first, I.B.A.ALLEN over Pastures Masters.

Get into Rugby Programme expands

30. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014. 31.

Classifieds

MRS. CYNTHIA BETHEL JAMES

WILTON BAPTISTE

St. Phillips Anglican Church Mesopotamia Wednesday 5th November, 2014 Service at 3:00 pm

St. Theresa Roman Catholic Church, Gomea Tuesday 4th November, 2014 2:00 p.m.

BRIAN ENDEAVOUR S.D. Adventist Church Fountain Sunday 2nd November, 2014 3:00 p.m.

DOROTHY UNICE S. OLIVER 6W 3DXO¶V &KXUFK Calliaqua Saturday 1st November, 2014 Service at 3:00 pm

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 7, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.44

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PM threatens to ring elections bell:

EUSTACE READY ANYTIME

by KENVILLE HORNE

A.I. REAL ESTATE Fair Hall 6,354 sq.ft @ $10.00 p.s.f. - $63,540.00 - Call

The election bell is constitutionally placed in the hands of the Prime Minister.

PRIME MINISTER DR. RALPH GONSALVES has threatened to call general elections if the opposition provokes him.

The Prime Minister was at the time speaking at a ceremony to mark the arrival of three Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting trucks, for operation at the Argyle International Airport when it is completed.

Dr. Gonsalves has repeatedly said that he would not call elections before the completion of the Argyle International Airport; but on Monday he threatened to do otherwise.

“They think Vincentians dotish. Well it going finish before the election, and if they humbug me, and the way they going, I call the election before it finish and leh the people decide who they want finish it, them or me?” said Gonsalves. “ A told them before that I wouldn’t call the election until the airport done, but they getting on as though they want provoke I, and if they provoke me too much I would call the thing and tell the people listen , Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Arnhim Eustace, Opposition they say they want finish it , Gonsalves has warned against choose!. Who you want finish it, Leader, intimated that he would provoking him into an early calling De Comrade or Eustace? And if “love the PM to call an early of general elections. election”. they say Eustace, well I go simple go up a Gorse and enjoy acknowledged Eustace. meself like a Rasta man up there.”

The opposition leader added that Vincentians are looking forward to the election; but until the date is NDP Ready announced, he would continue to look out for the interest of Vincentians.

However, when THE VINCENTIAN contacted Eustace also told THE VINCENTIAN that he was the Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace, for a recently in Barrouallie doing house to house comment, he described the Prime Minister’s statement as that of “Child’s Play and foolishness.” campaign, and it went well. He is very confident of a Eustace said that from his perspective, Gonsalves New Democratic Party (NDP) victory, when the election is held. “I am assuming that election would has his mouth, and his statement does not worth responding to. However, he admitted that he would be early, and the party is making preparation,” the Opposition Leader assured. love the Prime Minister to call general election The last general election was held in 2010, and early. the next one is constitutionally due by March 2015.

“We want the election early, but we understand that he has the power to call the date,”

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Airport construction moving along

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY DR. RUDY MATTHIAS, Chief Executive Officer of the International Airport Development Corporation (IADC), is anxious for the private sector to be part of the airport project.

“We want to have the private sector involved,” Matthias said last Monday, November 3, at the Container Port at Campden Dr. Rudy Matthias, Chief Park where three Executive Officer of IADC, projects May 2015 as a Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting completion date for construction work at the Vehicles destined airport at Argyle. for use at the international airport, were inspected.

The Trucks will be stationed at the E.T Joshua airport at Arnos Vale until the Argyle International Airport is completed in May 2015, as projected by Dr. Matthias.

The CEO, in providing an update on progress at Argyle, lamented the pace at which some works have been undertaken. He admitted that “substantial” work was needed on the concrete pavement on the apron next to the Terminal Building and apportioned blame to the recent rains as being responsible for delays.

He also pointed to the lack of equipment as another mitigating factor. The IADC has been renting equipment from private firms, but this method is more costly, he indicated.

Matthias expects that by January 2015, arrangements will be in place for the erection of a cargo building at the site.

Parcels of lands on the site have been leased to private companies to construct Hangars. He is challenging those entrepreneurs to “do things faster,” than the IADC.

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