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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 08, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.49

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Not Jerusalem, SVG tells Trump

Palestinian Solidarity: Seated: Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (L) with Imad Al-Zuhairi - Director General from the State of Palestine’s Foreign Ministry. Standing L-R: Eyad Abu Ali, Her Excellency Linda Sobeh - Palestinian Ambassador to Venezuela, Jihad Mohammed and Hany Elqutub.

PALESTINE AND SVG DEEPEN RELATIONS

THE MOVE BY UNITED STATES PRESIDENT Donald Trump to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel, has been condemned by the Vincentian government.

A Declaration from the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce Ministry released last Tuesday made this country’s position known.

“Any such recognition would imperil the internationally-agreed Two-State Solution, destabilise the Middle East region, and invalidate the important role of the United States as an honest broker and driver of the Israeli peace process,” the communique from the Vincentian government outlined.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed concern with attempts “to deviate from the settled parameters governing the delicate quest for peace between the State of Israel and the State of Palestine.”

The Vincentian authorities applauded the USA on recent efforts to “reinvigorate the IsraeliPalestinian peace process,” but urged that “such efforts focus om cessation of illegal settlement activity in Palestinian territory, the removal of impediments to movement and commerce within the State of Palestine, and the fostering of an environment of trust and good will that can Continued on Page 3.

Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY LAST WEDNESDAY, a delegation including Her Excellency Linda Sobeh Palestinian Ambassador to Venezuela, her husband Hany Elqutub, Imad AlZuhairi - Director General from the State of Palestine’s Foreign Ministry, as well as Jihad Mohammed and Eyad Abu Ali, Continued on Page 3.

Jerusalem is considered a holy city by three major global religions: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity.

2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 Former Culture Minister recognizes Starlift

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 3.

saying that 50 years was a long time to remain committed to the development of steel band music in the country.

This commitment was evident in the over 800 young participants that have taken part in Starlift’s summer programme since its inception, she said.

She also recalled the performance put on by Starlift when they attended the World Travel Market in London SENATOR JULIAN FRANCIS has hinted that the during her time as the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure and 2018 Minister of Culture, Budget will take place in the middle of January. describing it as a wonder He said on his radio programme on Tuesday to see. night that the estimates and budget will not be They were also taking place this month, and that the government present during the visit was currently engaged in the discussion aspect of of Prince Harry, when he L-R: Kingsley ‘Hero’ Roberts (arranger), Roddy Dowers (captain), Errol ‘Sardo’ Sutherland of Starlift, accept the gift from former Minister of Culture, the budgetary exercise. took the baton from In February this year, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph arranger, Kingsley ‘Hero’ Rene Baptiste.

Gonsalves, in his capacity then as Minister of Roberts. has had for Baptiste over The depth of the of music on pan, she Finance, presented an EC$976.4 million budget in “That is the spirit of the years, and spoke of repertoire was worthy of said.

Parliament. engagement, and this is how appreciative they mention — the band’s The group had now This time around, it is expected that newly what Starlift is known were over the years. ability to play all genres expanded, Baptiste appointed Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves for,” Baptiste said.

“Being a part of a continued, and has will make the presentation. (DD) cultural organization like produced and continues this, we don’t normally to produce a number of get any recognition. Ms outstanding players.

Baptiste has done this Captain Roddy for us over the years, and Continued from Front page. declared, adding, “We are part of area of agriculture was concerned, Dowers, in his remarks this the 50th anniversary following the official St. Vincent and the Grenadines. the Director General described it handover, acknowledged is no different,” he said. representing a consortium of We are here to stay and work as being “…about to move from the respect that the band (DD) investors, met and signed together.” solidarity of friendship to having agreements with Prime Minister Dr. Foreign Ministry Director something on the ground.”

Ralph Gonsalves.

General Al-Zuhairi observed that Jihad Mohamed described it as In reviewing the new their presence was “proof of the a “new chapter” here, and he, agreements, Dr. Gonsalves friendship and solidarity” which having adopted the role as alluded to aspects of “general has been a hallmark of SVG“writer,” will be producing a cooperation,” in health, Palestinian solidarity. publication dubbed ‘St. Vincent agriculture, education, that will He acknowledged that St. and the Grenadines’. form the basis of relations going Vincent and the Grenadines has He preferred to remain quiet on Continued from Front measured action.” forward. been consistent in supporting the his proposals, but hinted that page.

The Vincentian Ambassador Sobeh praised this Palestinian peoples’ right to a 10,000 jobs in five years will government is warning country’s Ambassador to peaceful existence, and cited the represent more of a direct impact. stimulate meaningful that “to acknowledge Venezuela - Andreas Wickham, signing of cooperation between the And while Mohammed opted negotiations between the that any unilateral and spoke of St. Vincent and the two countries as “our way to for the suspense line, Prime declaration regarding Grenadines as being her third express gratitude and Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was parties.”

The Vincentian the status of Jerusalem home, boasting that she could go appreciation for your principled keen to disclose that ‘JM government alluded to will not in any way “everywhere without guards,” support.”

Investments’ was slated to take the lives lost in the advance the cause of a while here.

Tangible evidence of that up the operations of the conflict, but that just, peaceful and lasting “We are interested in interaction will be unveiled by Buccament Bay Resorts. “decades of painstaking solution to the dispute strengthening the youths,… the January 2018, according to AlThere are also plans for their work, demand mature, between the peoples of future”, Ambassador Sobeh Zuhairi. involvement at Mt Wynne. responsible and Palestine and Israel.”

As far as co-operation in the STARLIFT STEEL ORCHESTRA celebrates 50 years of existence this year, making it the longest existing and active Steel orchestra in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

And it was for this reason and the contribution that Starlift

has made through those five decades, that former Minister of Culture, Rene Baptiste recognized the Orchestra with the presentation of a token of appreciation.

On Tuesday, Baptiste handed over a trophy,

Budget set for early 2018

Palestine and SVG deepen relations

Not Jerusalem, SVG tells Trump

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Convicted cocaine dealer awaits sentencing will hear the presentation of a Social Inquiry Report on HEAD of the Narcotics Unit Edwards, from the of the Royal St. Vincent Family Affairs Division, and the Grenadines Police in the Ministry of Force, Assistant National Mobilization, Superintendent (ASP) and a mitigation plea Foster Scott, shook the from his lawyer Grant hand of Director of Public Connell.

Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Evidence presented by Williams, and told him, the prosecution, at the “Thanks”, following the trial, showed that a party successful prosecution of of officers from the a major cocaine matter, at Narcotic Unit, led by the High Court Criminal ASP Scott, acting on Assizes on Wednesday. information received, A nine-member mixed went to the Walliabou jury had found 35-yearMountains at the North old Fitz Hughes farmer Leeward end of the Anthony ‘Ipa’ Edwards country, on the evening guilty of having 32,795 of January 12, 2015 and grams of cocaine with intercepted Edwards. intent to supply.

According to the Edwards was also evidence, on arrival, the found guilty of having party took up duty, the drug for the purpose splitting up in teams, of drug trafficking. and hid for hours in the He will be sentenced bushes, using devices to on January 29, 2018 at a communicate. The sentencing hearing, officers had gone there during which the court after midday, but did not Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

make the bust until about 6:20 p.m. Edwards was seen going up a track, but the officers did not stop him then; he came down some minutes later, carrying a sack on his head.

Scott said that he stepped out from the bushes and shouted, “Police, don’t move!”, and the man dropped the sack next to him (Scott) and ran back into the mountains, but was caught.

Edwards told the police, “Is a job I get I was just holding it for someone”.

But during crossexamination, Connell suggested to Scott that the man who dropped the sack was not the accused.

He suggested that that man ran towards the sea, and the officers were unable to catch him, so the police had to find somebody to tag.

about half an hour. He did not see where the man went.

Edwards added that Edwards and the sack the 29 packages showed to him when he was were taken into custody taken into custody bore at the Narcotics base at 29 stars, but the Arnos Vale.

The sack was found to packages before the contain 29 packages, and Court had six stars and a field test carried out by two ticks.

Scott had admitted in the officers revealed that his evidence that the substance in the warning shots were fired packages was cocaine. when Edwards ran back Scott, who said he into the mountains. knew Edwards for Connell’s request for several years, insisted, the court to visit the under crossslocus in quo was turned examination, that down by presiding Judge Edwards was the man Brian Cottle, who agreed who dropped the sack, and that he ran back into with the DPP that if the mountains, and not Connell wanted to visit towards the sea. the scene, he could have Scott was one of three said so during the case police officers who management hearing. testified for the When the Judge asked prosecution. how is the visit to the In his defence, scene going to improve Edwards said he had the understanding of the gone to the mountains case for the prosecution that evening to change or the defence, Connell his animals, and while said that sometimes you on his way down, shortly see things there that are before 6 p.m., he saw a at variance with the bareback man walking evidence given. infront of him with a In his closing sack on his head. arguments, the DPP Edwards said he was pointed out that “a distance” from the Edwards did not give the man, and walked behind police the version of him for about 25 events he gave at the minutes, but could not trial. see his face. According to The DPP noted that Edwards, he heard two during an electronic gunshots, and hid for

Anthony ‘Ipa’ Edwards interview, which was shown at the trial, Edwards told the police he had nothing to say, and gave no defence at the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) at the Magistrate’s Court. The DPP contended that the prosecution’s evidence was clear that Edwards was in possession.

But Connell, in his submissions, argued that there were major discrepancies in the prosecution’s evidence, and asked the Court to believe his client.

In relation to Edwards not giving a defence at the PI, Connell said there was nothing unusual about that, adding that the Magistrate usually tells accused persons at PIs that they have the option of reserving their defence.

“I trust that you will make the right decision and set this man free”, he told the jury.

The jury did not agree.

Dishonest St. Lucians’ fate still unknown ST. LUCIANS Jammy Harry, Aaron Kadoo and Mario Chitolie, who were slated for sentencing last Wednesday, on several charges of dishonesty, will have to wait a while longer to know their fate.

The men, charged in connection with a series of fraudulent activities at Automotive Teller Machines (ATMs) belonging to the General Employees Co-operative Credit Union Ltd (GECCU), and the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, amounting to thousands of dollars, March this year, changed their pleas from not guilty to guilty when they returned to Court, November 29.

They are represented by Attorney Dwane Daniel.

When the trio reappeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Wednesday, December 6, for sentencing, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche indicated that Crown Counsel Karim Nelson, who was in charge of the matter, was not in office, and left no instructions with him (Delpleche), in relation to the matter. The Prosecutor said that in these circumstances, he was requesting an adjournment.

Browne then adjourned the matter to December 18.

Harry and Chitolie were charged with 21 counts of theft. They were also charged under the Proceeds of

Crime Act, with possession of Criminal Property.

Harry, Chitolie and Kadoo were charged with, conspiracy to commit the offence of theft. Harry and Kadoo were charged with, going equipped to steal, while Kadoo was charged with entering into an arrangement to commit money laundering.

The facts revealed that the men came here by boat, March this year, and stayed at a hotel in Kingstown.

They brought with them a quantity of black and white ATM cards, and went to ATMs, belonging to the Bank of SVG, and GECCU, at various parts of the country, including Kingstown, Calliaqua and the Grenadines. They used those cards to access the accounts of several persons.

The Bank of SVG made a report of suspicious activities at their ATMs. Investigations were carried out, and the men were arrested.

Kadoo was found with over $60,000 and 121 black and white ATM cards.

Harry was found with over $4,000 and four black and white ATM cards.

There was footage from the Bank showing these persons being involved in activities at the ATMs between March 10 and 12.

The Bank examined the cards, with which the men were found, and confirmed that they were not issued by that institution.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 5.

News

Ganja man discharged, without record Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS A 21-YEAR-OLD former student of the St. Vincent Grammar School who pleaded guilty to marijuana possession, has been given a second chance to put his ability and skills into practice, having been discharged by the Court, without a criminal record.

The youngster, who appeared before the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, admitted having 256 grams of marijuana with intent to supply, on Tuesday, December 5 at Rose Hall.

However, responding to questions from Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, the defendant told the Court he had obtained seven Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) passes, including English, Social Studies, Food and Nutrition and Home Management. He said he got a One in Home Management.

and went outside. On his carrying revealed the lawmen, “Is a brethren return, minutes later, he marijuana. When give me dat as payment told the Magistrate that cautioned, he told the for a phone”. he made some social inquiries, and based on the repot he got, he was recommending that the youngster be reprimanded and DIRECTOR of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Colin discharged.

Williams has commended police officers from the But the Magistrate Narcotics Unit for excellent work in a major drug went further and applied operation on January 12, 2015 which resulted in Section 37 of the 35-year-old Fitz Hughes farmer Anthony ‘Ipa’ Criminal Code, and Edwards being convicted on two charges. discharged the defendant A nine-member jury at the High Court on without a criminal Wednesday, found Edwards guilty of having record.

32,795 grams of cocaine with intent to supply, and Browne’s last words of having the drug for the purpose of drug advice to the youngster trafficking. was to use his talent, and Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on do well. “Use it. If you Thursday, the DPP said the offices carried out the don’t use it, you will lose operation in a very tactful way. it. Make sure the “They (officers) got good intelligence, and they environment is clean for did extremely good police work to transform that intelligence into a major drug bust”, the DPP said. consumption. Do well”, He pointed out that the lawmen, having to she concluded. “Thank hide, camouflaged and disguised, in a particular you”, the boy replied. position, in an inhospitable environment, for Police on mobile hours, was not easy. He noted that the officers patrol, had arrested the went on the scene minutes to midday, but did not defendant around 12:40 make the bust until about 6:20 p.m. p.m. on the date in “The quality of their work, and the time they question, while patrolling put in is commendable”, the DPP stressed. the Rose Hall public Assistant Superintendent of Police Foster Scott road. A search of a black heads the Narcotics Unit, and led the operation. plastic bag he was

DPP lauds police in major drug bust

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne.

The boy added that he was also a student of the St. Vincent Technical College where he graduated in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; but he was not given the opportunity to make a living, using his ability and skills.

However, the Magistrate, noting that the defendant said he had a One in Home Management, advised, “Sometimes we don’t

wait on others to give us the opportunity. When you have the talent, you have to create it”.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche agreed with the Magistrate, and expressed the view that the issue of youngsters not being creative in seeking employment opportunities, was a problem in this country.

Delpleche then asked the Court to be excused,

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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 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 Starlift: Impacting a new generation THE MONTROSE-BASED Starlift Steel Orchestra is well into celebrating its 50th Anniversary – 1967 to 2017.

The attendant activities, spread throughout 2017, focused on not only reconnecting with Alumni of the last 50 years, recognizing those (founders) who courageously took the idea from ‘concept to reality’ but, more importantly, on solidifying the orchestra’s connection with the Old and New Montrose communities, out of which the orchestra morphed.

Its particularly significant Heroes Month (March) “Founders Recognition Event”, a community clean-up effort and a Church Service served to jumpstart the year’s activities, which also included: special outreach programmes to the elderly in the Old Montrose community; full involvement in Vincy Mas 2017; and an Independence Concert.

The Golden Year’s activities will climax with a December 18, 2017 50th Anniversary Christmas Concert, appropriately dubbed ‘We Fifty’. This is the third such concert to be staged by the Steel Orchestra — providing an evening of pan, voices, wind and electronic instruments, all on the same stage, that cascades a range of genres from classic to pop, from reggae to calypso.

Without question, the very first of these concerts, ‘Celebrate with Starlift and Friends’, ushered in a new era — an awakening of sorts — of the farreaching potential and impact of the steel pan and steelband music.

But Starlift’s 50th Anniversary is more than an opportunity to showcase the talent and ingenuity of its pan players. It is a year that has focused on reflecting and celebrating Starlift’s birth, growth and evolution.

From a mere twenty players, Starlift has grown into an institution of men and women who, inspired by the discipline that characterizes them as pan players and musicians, have gone on to become national scholars and solid and upright citizens who, with their attainment of qualification in a variety of worldly disciplines, have positioned themselves as major contributors to the development of their country, and to fostering a Caribbean Civilization that can impact the world stage.

Of particular pride to those who have stayed the path of five decades, or have shared in one way or the other a period of association through those 50 years, is the fulfilment of the Orchestra’s motto, ‘Men will Come! Men Will Go! But Starlift Forever Remains!’, through, in particular, a training programme for young men and women.

It is through that ongoing progamme that the band has not only contributed directly to ensuring a cadre of pan players for the next few decades, but moreso that it has delivered on an otherwise subliminal mission to inculcate positive attitudes among those young people.

Attitudes that relate to: respect for self, family, others and community; a sense of organization and discipline that guides their pursuits in education, sports and culture; and an embracing of a desire to achieve excellence, not only in music but in all their pursuits and endeavours.

In effect, Starlift has embraced the concept that musical activities and the skills developed therein, are transferred to other activities; that, for example, learning to play an instrument - the steel pan in this case - has a positive impact on intellectual development.

And the tangibles are there to support the success in this regard.

Those who guide the process at Starlift agree that their cares — trainees — have shown remarkable personal and social development, an impact they assess to be the direct result of the discipline inherent in learning music and how to play a musical instrument.

In addition, those involved in the leadership of Starlift speak to how the training Programme has encouraged self-expression — i.e. that it has provided motivation for learning in general, the nurturing of ‘inquiring minds’, and enhanced attainment.

All in all, Starlift’s leadership is assured that their focus on a Youth Training Programme has promoted: friendships among like-minded people; self-confidence; self-discipline; social skills; social networking; a sense of belonging; team work; a sense of accomplishment; co-operation; responsibility; commitment; mutual support; and an outlet for relaxation.

Given the demands made and challenges faced, as far as raising and guiding the development of young people away from the attractions of the seemingly glamorous trends towards instant gratification that encourages miscreant behaviour, Starlft seems to have hit on a right path towards offering a positive, meaningful alternative for young people.

Stand and take a bow, Starlfit. Your pathway through another overwhelming successful 50 years seems assured, in more ways than one.

NDP rides over its storm in a teacup JUST WHEN I THOUGHT that the NDP was coasting to victory made possible by their heroic struggles in the election petition case, there is a self-inflicted difficulty that surprisingly raised all sorts of doubts unnecessarily.

The concern apparently begins with the publicly expressed opinion of Major Leacock who thinks inter-alia, that the NDP election candidate of South Central Windward, Israel Bruce, should have earned a place in the Senate vacated either by Jules Ferdinand or Linton Lewis. The actual replacements are Zita Barnwel and Kay Bacchus Baptiste, candidate for West St. George.

Arnhim Eustace, past leader of the NDP, took umbrage at what he considered the public criticism of the Leader Godwin Friday’s prerogative. He is of the opinion that such a situation should be dealt with in-house.

Arnhim, as past leader of the party for some sixteen years, felt compelled, in the absence of the new Leader Friday, who at the time was abroad in Jamaica, to admonish Leacock in rather harsh terms.

Followed Keith Joseph, radio personality who criticised Leacock whom he suggests to be the weakest link in the NDP chain.

This was an unjustified, unwarranted and dishonest attack on St. Clair Leacock who replied suitably on the invitation of OMG talk show host, hard-hitting Bing Joseph.

Leacock gave a measured, truthful and self-sacrificial account of his 40 odd years with the NDP. Significantly, he noted that he had no intention of quitting the NDP, that the Central Kingstown seat would be won by the ULP in a 3 — cornered fight. That if he were forced out of the NDP, he would simply “… leave with my bat under my arm and make room for others;” he would just readjust and reorder the remainder of his life to pursue higher goals. It was a touching testimony.

Leacock’s response caused immediate sparks to fly. Daniel Cummings, an old Comrade at arms and Chairman of the NDP, flew to Leacock’s defence, setting the record straight, and warning the NDP not to go off at a tangent but refocus on victory at the polls, following their anticipated success in court in the imminent hearing of petitions.

There is no real problem in Senatorial selection. Bruce is on the ground everywhere in the constituency, on the sports fields, in the law courts: his party can do without his nomination, the people will return him in his own right. We can

do with another woman in parliament.

Zita Barnwell’s past relations, if any, with Jomo, must have at least got him to see, however dimly, that the NDP was really the way to go, and could pay off later.

All parties, government and opposition, must, especially with elections round the bend, beware the creation and fertilization of factions in the party likely to win. Could such eventuality be the cause of Eustace’s swift reaction to Leacock’s slip-up, and especially the carry-on of Keith Joseph against which in the head-line of the ‘Searchlight’ “Major Snaps Back”?

It all boded well in the end for Major, Cummings, Chairman, and the other two of the NDP, Leader Lorraine Friday and Vice President Roland “Patel” Matthews all sung from one song-sheet in celebration of the 42nd birthday of the NDP. The party has brushed aside a petty difference and looks forward to a change of scene, come next week after the Election petition is heard on the 12th and 13th of December.

Bassy says 12 plus 13 makes 25, and the 25th December is Christmas Day- for the NDP and all people of SVG. All’s well, that ends well.

And, for our part, we end with the wise words of Godwin Friday at the NDP head-table at the 42nd anniversary of the party.

“We have had our ups and downs. We are a political party. I tell people this, you would always have differences and a lot has been said recently about the public washing of linen, so to speak. But we always believe that with dialogue and a coming together of the mind to resolve those differences, that the party would be stronger and go forward…

It is important that people understand that the differences may have been exhibited, they are differences that cannot break us, and that we have come together always, in the best interest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines… we have addressed a number of them internally and that’s the best way to do it.

And for those who might have been rejoicing and ‘thinking, oh the NDP this, and the NDP that, the NDP is divided, that is nonsense. It has always been that the NDP puts the interest of the people of SVG as number one”. Amen.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 7.

Letters

Bone-headed parking!!

IN THE PAST WEEK, I had cause to shop in Kingstown and intended to use the facilities of the Solidarity Car Park. I duly joined what I thought was the car park queue, becoming the 4th in line.

After some time had elapsed, it dawned on me that I was not 4th in line for the car park, but had parked behind 3 illegally parked cars that were blocking the car park entrance and in effect causing a “false” queue. I

discussed this matter with the very kind, courteous and professional car park staff, and discovered that this was not an isolated incident, but happens with the utmost regularity on a daily basis.

I can only assume that there are two reasons for this: first, that the offenders’ eyesight is so poor that they cannot read the NO PARKING SIGNS, even though they are printed in 3ft high

letters in bright yellow paint. If this is the case and their eyesight is so deficient, then they are a menace to themselves and all other road-users, and should cease driving with immediate effect!!

Rather, I think the case is that these cretinous, moronic, self-centred individuals have the assumed arrogance to believe that they have the God-given right to park where they like,

regardless of any applicable parking restrictions, that may apply to us lesser mortals!!

What makes this situation 10 times worse is the proximity of these offences to the Traffic Office situated in the main Police Station. Can any high echelon member of the Police Force explain why it is impossible for any member of the Traffic

Police to get off their backsides at given intervals, perhaps every 30 or 60 minutes, walk a few yards from their office and move on, ticket or better still clamp those illegally parked as I have described. I would have thought that such action would be part and parcel of enforcing the parking regulations so diligently painted on the roadside.

A. W. Indupp.

Learning from Road users Miss Jamaica I AM NOT a lover of Beauty Pageants, so when a girlfriend of mine told me I should watch the Miss Universe Contest on TV, I smiled, told her a quiet yes, and went on my way.

But she called the day of the Contest and again encouraged me to watch the show, saying that I would be impressed with one of the contestants.

Not wanting to lose a friend, I decided to watch the show, and man, was I glad I did!

Take it or leave it, Miss Jamaica, sporting an Afro, was my choice. Miss Jamaica, Davina Bennett, had a clear message for all black women, i.e. that there is something called natural beauty.

What a pleasure it was to see this beautiful black woman showing all the pride in showing off her natural beauty — her natural hair, not some fanciful, foreign hairstyle that these days mean you have to borrow or buy hair.

All black women should take a leaf from Miss Bennett’s book. That leaf is all about appreciating their (our own) Afro-Caribbean identity.

These days, our womenfolk seem afraid to display anything — style and fashion — that represents our ‘Africaness’ — for that * If anybody is matter anything related to our descendants. We checking on those seem to forget that the duty free “F” majority of our vehicles to see how population are many of them are descendants of Africa, being used for and we should be proud farming-related to represent that and purposes? not try to be what we * Why in heaven’s are not. name is the road to How I long to see Arhnim Eustace’s more of my black women sporting Afros! residence still in How I long to see my such a horrible black women being what condition? and who they are! * Don’t those Thank you, Miss responsible realise Bennett, for re-opening that when they spite an awareness, I hope.

Eustace, they spiting all the other Charles, Edinboro. people - tax payers who use the road on a daily basis? * Any chance that the new Minister of Daihatsu Terriors Finance would give in excellent us a list of the condition. biggest tax defaulters in SVG? 529-6190

FOR SALE

— some if not most of them — to be nuisances and threats on the road.

Here is an example: A Mr. Editor, While I am though the vehicle is now confined to be a well into a turn in their mini-bus stops without pulling off, to either passenger, having given direction. And what is up driving for well over the reaction? “Hit me if allow passengers to disembark or to allow two years, I am appalled your bad, nah.” by what I witness on our I recall the days when persons to get in. They keep their indication roads. police officers would First, there is visit the schools to teach light on as though they are moving on but do definitely a lack of proper and safe use of not. The person behind knowledge by our the roadways by is made to come to a pedestrians. No longer pedestrians. Those stop until that does it seem that lessons stuck with me pedestrians employ the and many others right to unmannerly mini-bus driver decides it’s time golden rule of looking our adult lives. for him to move on. right, looking left, And now to those Further, the rate at looking right again, mini-buses. I know this which they continue to before crossing. They matter has been hardly have regard for laboured upon by many ply their trade on our roads, and their total an indication by a driver and for some time now. disregard for care and that he/she is turning But the fact that we left or right. Some continue to labour on it, attention for other road users, leave me to proceed to cross at an is clear indication that intersection, even the mini-buses continue wonder whether they

the support and enforcement of public morality as the basis for the restriction. I have found nothing in the writings of Luther, Knox, Calvin, or the Bible (old or new testaments), or the papal encyclicals, that address the notion of sex toys.

What right, in a democracy, does any government have to tell you or me what consenting adults may do in the privacy of their bedroom? This is not “Leonidas at the pass”, protecting his countrymen, it is King Canute,

Who Vex Dead!!!

willfully, ignorantly, futilely commanding the tides to cease.

Fortunately, all of my children have taken up citizenship abroad, in Europe and North America, where they have free access to whatever devices may provide sexual satisfaction for themselves and their spouses. My wife and I have hidden our sex toys under our mattress; the Government will need a warrant to come in and seize them.

Just wait until you see the letter that results from that!

ÂSextoysÊ contraband in SVG WHEN I FIRST heard, several months ago, that “sex toys” were considered contraband in St. Vincent, I was mildly amused: no doubt some tourists would be slightly inconvenienced by such seizures at the airport, but would humorously recount the experience to their friends upon returning to their home countries in a few days, and then repurchasing same - a minor inconvenience. But then I read the lengthy defense of the ban by a Government employee, citing

live in the same world as I do.

And the ridiculous thing about this is that some of them get away with their nonsense because they have friends in .. you know where.

I understand that some insurance companies have taken a decision not to insure any new mini-buses.

This must tell us something about the risk involved.

This country was once the pride of the region, when it came to good manners and courtesies on the road. I must say, sadly, that we have lost ground in this regard.

Sanger

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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The woes of St. Clair Leacock The NDP, 42 and growing stronger

Introduction

THIS WEEK, ST. CLAIR LEACOCK, the member for the constituency of Central Kingstown, and one of the Vice Presidents of the opposition New Democratic Party, made some stunning declarations on radio, which stunned a number of Vincentians, especially those who support the NDP. Leacock, who goes under the sobriquet “the Major” because of his years of service in the Cadet Force, was clearly expressing his frustration with a number of matters in the New Democratic Party.

Since the last general election in 2015, Leacock has been at odds with his party, and in particular the leadership, first Arnhim Eustace, and then Lorraine Friday. Clearly, “the Major” has issues which are not being addressed by the leadership of the party, and his frustration forces him to raise these issues in public. The overall issue of leadership is a bitter pill for him to swallow. Having followed Arnhim Eustace faithfully for close to sixteen years, and through four political defeats at the polls, Leacock felt aggrieved that he was passed over for leadership in favour of the dour Lorraine Friday. Therefore, when Keith Joseph on his programme “Just Another Look”, was at pains to point out that Leacock was the weakest link in the NDP chain and questioned his commitment to that political party, Leacock saw red.

Recently, party leader Lorraine Friday saw it fit to appoint Arnhim Eustace, to oversee the proceedings in the House of Assembly from the opposition side. And yet that party has two Vice Presidents in St. Clair Leacock and Patel Mathews, and they both sit in Parliament. Now the NDP leader, Lorraine Friday, heads to New York for a town hall meeting, and he is taking the two junior members of his parliamentary group, Senators Kay Bacchus-Baptiste and Zita Barnwell. Kay Bacchus-Baptiste has not yet taken the oath in relation to her senatorship. Zita Barnwell is the Senator that Leacock wants replaced.

She is the most junior on the NDP benches, and is struggling to make any significant mark on the proceedings of the House of Assembly.

The 2015 General Elections

Of interest to most persons, is the statement made by Leacock in relation to the performance of the NDP, in the 2015 general elections.

He said “Even now we don’t know why we have done badly in some of the seats. We say “yes they thief, they thief, they thief”, but the evidence is that there are serious irregularities in the campaign. But it is for us to The senatorial issue determine and define it, or history will repeat itself again”.

Last month, the NDP announced This is an absolutely revealing that it was replacing Dr. Jules statement from the Vice President of Ferdinand as opposition Senator, with a political party, which claims to have lawyer Kay Bacchus-Baptiste. had a General Election stolen from Leacock clearly had other ideas, and them.

Leacock is indicating that the felt that there should be a clean sweep, a double change, and that the NDP’s loss in 2015 is due primarily to serious irregularities in the way the other Senator, Zita Barnwell, should have been replaced by Israel Bruce, a NDP campaigned, in the lead up to polling day. So, one must ask where is lawyer, who is interested in running the mass hysteria about elections in South Central Windward. And so being stolen, the basis for their Leacock was moved to make some petitions in Central Leeward and public comments about the North Windward? appointment.

After the 2015 General Elections, This clearly angered the NDP, but Leacock said that if the people were it was not the leader of that party convinced that the NDP should form who was most upset. It was the government, then nothing would stop former leader, Arnhim Eustace, who his party from gaining office. But it is took to the airwaves to administer a public scolding of “the Major”. All this clear that the voters in St. Vincent of course led to a public response from and the Grenadines, especially the young people, were not convinced, and Leacock, in which he took a swipe at so they returned the ULP to office for Eustace and the NDP. Leacock a record fourth term in office. suggested that Eustace “was parachuted” into the NDP, while he Conclusion had to work his way up from the bottom.

Just before the 2015 elections, All this drama makes for good Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves listening by persons who are interested in that sort of bacchanalist made a prediction, that the NDP was going to disintegrate, and that they thing; but it also sends a strong would turn on each other. Perhaps signal, that the NDP is falling apart, and that the party is in disarray. It is this is what we are now seeing in the ranks of the NDP. Clearly, this clear that whatever systems were outburst by Leacock is the tip of the established under former leader Sir iceberg. Several members of the NDP James Mitchell to give effect to are not happy with the current consultation and decision making in strategy and direction of Lorraine that party, have gone awry. Leacock complains that as a Vice President, he Friday and his party. It is this current had no input into the appointment of state of affairs in the NDP that is the new Senator, hence the spat over telling Vincentians that they did the right thing when they rejected the Israel Bruce.

NDP at the polls in 2015.

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP), the oldest political party in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was founded by Sir James Mitchell. It was officially launched on 5th December, 1975. In 1984, Vincentians demonstrated that they had enough of the victimization, oppression and corruption of the St. Vincent Labour Party. And the quality of leadership, the team and message that the NDP presented propelled it to victory in the general elections of that year.

During its seventeen years in office, the NDP transformed St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The main objectives of the NDP are to: raise the standard of living of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines through the development of the economic resources of the country in a manner that provides equal opportunity for all; to ensure the highest standard of rectitude in public life; to guarantee the maximum expression of democratic liberties by all citizens, and to lead in the building of a dynamic society. In addition, the principles of the party state, “The NDP shall be made up of progressiveminded people of any race, colour, or creed who are dedicated to the principles of democracy and who are interested in the sound and orderly development of the political, moral, social and economic welfare of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

With the objectives of the party, a clear vision, sound policies and astute leadership of the NDP; it governed St. Vincent and the Grenadines for seventeen years. Having won general elections in 1984, 1989, 1994 and 1998; in 1989, it won all fifteen seats.

During the period 1984 to 2001, the economy was blooming; there was an average of 5% economic growth annually. All the productive sectors contributed significantly to the economic development. Agriculture played the dominant role, in particular the banana industry. In 1990, St. Vincent and the Grenadines earned $120 million, and in 1992, $112 million also from bananas.

Vincentians enjoyed an improved standard of living. A middle class was developed, and unemployment was at its lowest.

However, the flag ship of the NDP was its land reform programme, where lands were given to the landless. A number of estates were distributed, including: Rabbacca, Colonaire, Sans Souci and Diamond to the poor and working class. There were also major developments to the infrastructure of this country, such as the construction of feeder roads which assisted farmers tremendously.

Vincentians showed great appreciation to the development of the village roads which the Labour Party called ‘gouti tracks’. There was a marked improvement to housing stock as well.

Moreover, Vincentians saw the transformation of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority and the St. Vincent Electricity Services Ltd. When the NDP left office, 90% of the country had electricity. It must be noted that it was the NDP that provided electricity to the villages north of the dry river, and built the main road from Fancy to Georgetown.

Some of the other accomplishments of

the NDP are the: Financial Complex, Little Tokyo, Cruise ship berth, vegetable market, traffic lights, Ottley Hall Marina, Sion Hill intersection, reconstruction of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, airports in Canouan, Bequia and Union Island. And there was considerable development to the tourism sector; the Canouan Development Project which presently employs hundreds of Vincentians.

Meanwhile, women made significant advancement during the period of the NDP. Among other things, the NDP established the Gender Unit, and the Department of Women was created. It was the NDP that cleared the obstacle of unequal pay through the passage of the Equal Pay Act which allowed women and men to be paid equally. Women were also recipients of lands at Orange Hill.

As a matter of fact, 38% of lands distributed at Orange Hill was given to women. The NDP also repealed the Coutts Agreement which required female teachers to resign upon pregnancy. And it was under the NDP that married women started to file Income Tax Return independently.

In education, it was clear that the structure of administration and management of education were as irrelevant and outmoded as were the antiquated Education Act of 1937 and related regulations which were guiding the system. The following necessary and urgent steps were taken immediately. The combined posts of Permanent Secretary and Chief Education Officer were separated. A Chief Education Officer was appointed, an Education Planner was chosen and a Planning Unit created. In addition, a Curriculum Development Officer was appointed and a Curriculum Development Unit was established and, with a keen eye on evaluation, the ministry set up a Testing and Measurement Unit.

Among the earliest results of the work of the new Education Planner was the startling revelation that 60% of our school plant was grossly overcrowded. It is now history the NDP government implemented a shift system in schools to facilitate an ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of school programmes without having to close any school. The result of the exercise was the rehabilitation of 40% of the nation’s schools by a committed NDP government. It is even more remarkable to note that the NDP government rebuilt/refurbished 40% of the island’s school plant. It must also be mentioned that the NDP began paying the Economic Cost for all students attending the UWI, introduced the Student Loan, and the constructed the Community College.

As the NDP celebrates its forty second anniversary, we salute our leaders, founding father, Sir James Mitchell, the Hon. Arnhim Eustace, and Dr. the Hon. Godwin Friday, and all the men and women who have contributed and those who are still making their contributions to the development of the party. To our members, supporters and all those who have worked tirelessly for the NDP, we express our sincere gratitude to you.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 9.

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Dispelling darkness through kindness

Deadly monopolies and the HPV Virus

“The great thing about kindness is that it reminds us that there is light in the world despite the darkness that surround us.” – Dr. Sherene KallooDeyalsingh, specialist gynecologist, obstetrician, and newspaper columnist. dividends to the recipients. At other times, our acts of kindness may WE CONTINUE TO BE ENCOURAGED by require sacrificial giving of our time the number of individuals and and/or material goods. As the organisations that regularly make the Christmas Holidays approach, there time to show acts of kindness. In their are multiple opportunities that will own way, they remind us that there is emerge for us to show acts of still so much good in the world despite kindness. For example, the garbage the evil, the darkness, that is so often collectors who work tirelessly to keep portrayed in our print and electronic our neighbourhoods clean will know media. The darkness of rape, theft, that we appreciate them and their corruption, spousal abuse, and various services when we put together a gift forms of prejudice appear to fade away box of groceries, or one of the extra as the light of kindness and generosity cakes that we bake for Christmas, or shine through. We are reminded that a bottle of ginger beer or sorrel. The this is still a beautiful world. We bask in list goes on. We can use our the glow of appreciation of those who imagination to come up with novel make the time and exert the energy to ways of showing our appreciation. dispel darkness through kindness.

Students and past students can There is a lot of good that still exists in show appreciation for those who have our world, in our region, in our sacrificed so much to share Caribbean nations. Even as we are knowledge, skills, and positive often appalled by the increasing crime attitudes with them. The teaching rate and the apparent callousness of so profession is often considered to be many of our citizens, as postings on one of those where there is thankless Facebook and Twitter reveal a variety of service. Imagine the emotional heinous acts taking place “in our deposits we make when we remind backyard”, we draw strength and such educators of the significant courage from the many acts of kindness positive impact that they have had on that emerge from among us. our lives through their selfless and Unfortunately, many of these kind often sacrificial service to the nation. gestures never make the front pages of Sometimes all it takes is a telephone our newspapers (or any page of the print call, a hand-written note, or an e-mail media for that matter). They are seldom to “go back in time” and share a featured as television news items. And treasured moment. And as yet, they may touch the lives of many as insignificant as it may seem, it may they encourage recipients and observers arrive just in time to encourage and to keep hope alive. We think of those inspire. A small act of kindness that individuals, firms, and organisations that can dispel a tremendous amount of go out of their way to contribute to darkness. various school feeding programmes. We We commend the many caring appreciate the caring neighbours who individuals who visit hospitals and refuse to be considered as mere unhurriedly converse with patients spectators and/or analysists but would there. On occasions, they also venture out to assist needy children to encourage the medical staff and the secure their school books and uniforms. various care givers. A value cannot We think of the retired nurses and be placed on such acts of kindness. “regular citizens” who visit the aged and These encouragers blow no trumpets. the indigent in an effort to assist with They pose for no newspaper their care … or just to provide a listening journalists. They smile for no ear. There are so many among us who television cameras. They selflessly dispel darkness through kindness. give of themselves to ease the pain We do not have to know someone to and burden of those that they come be kind to them. It is probably true to into contact with. Imagine, if you say that the appreciation is magnified will, the sense of appreciation that when the recipient of the kind gesture emanates from a patient whose is considered to be a “total stranger” relatives may not have visited (or or someone who is not in a position to they have no relatives at all) but a return the favour. For example, consider the young man who holds the total stranger, who genuinely cares for mankind, would lend a listening door open to allow an elderly lady to ear or share some encouraging words enter the commercial bank when the queue on the inside is noticeably long. as they (the patient) battles with a He may have contemplated (for a brief debilitating disease or the trauma of an incapacitating accident. We moment) that he could position himself to gain more speedy service if cannot put a value to such acts of he looked out for his own interest and kindness and sacrificial giving.

Many of this column’s readers are rushed to secure his position ahead of regularly engaged in dispelling other customers. But he invests in various forms of darkness in your the greater good; an act of kindness that lifts the lady’s spirit and his own. respective communities. We commend you. We band together to He sees this as a random act of kindness that pays great dividends in continue the efforts to engage in acts his “emotional bank account”. As we of kindness as we seek to build better reflect on this scenario or example, we homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces, communities, and nations. We realise that not much time would be commit, and re-commit, to dispelling lost even when we pause to be kind darkness through kindness. under such circumstances.

We have so many opportunities to Send comments, criticisms & dispel darkness through our various suggestions to acts of kindness. Many of these can julesferdinand@gmail.com cost us very little but pay large

‘THINK YOUR BODY IS YOUR OWN to control and dispose of as you wish? Think again. The United States Patent Office has granted at least 40,000 patents on genes controlling the most basic processes of human life. If you undergo surgery in many hospitals, you must sign away ownership rights to your excised tissues, even if they turn out to have medical and fiscal value.

Life itself is rapidly becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of the medical-industrial complex.’

Harriot Washington, medical ethicist and author of Deadly Monopolies and Medical Apartheid I have long been a sceptic. I became even more suspicious of the western medical establishment when my mother was ‘diagnosed’ with pancreatic cancer in 2007 (she is still alive), and even more so after I read Harriet Washington’s Deadly Monopolies. In Deadly Monopolies, Washington demonstrated persuasively how the US government provided the legal framework for big pharmaceutical companies to control people’s lives and health in their mad quest for profit.

So when the news broke that we were about to require all our teenaged girls to take the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, my alarm bells went off. My mind immediately went back to the battle in the United States to vaccinate all of the nation’s teenaged girls. Soon the fight was to vaccinate all teenagers because it was claimed that boys developed mouth and throat cancer at a faster rate than girls because they were involved in oral sex.

I was particularly taken aback by the complete unanimity of the medical community in SVG regarding this vaccine. Too often we hear the hyperbole that vaccines save lives as we know from polio, smallpox and measles.

We throw caution to the wind because well, vaccines save lives. To do as the majority of medical professionals suggest, would be to put our children at risks. Parents and social services agencies will also have undue stress as children succumb to the dreadful side effects of HPV. There is no truth in the statement that the HPV vaccine is safe and without risk. In recent years, Australia, France, India, Japan and Spain have filed criminal lawsuits against Merck, the manufacturer of HPV Vaccine.

There has been no criminal suits in the United States because manufacturers of vaccines cannot be sued criminally in the land of the free. However, in 2016, the US Vaccine Court ordered Merck to pay US$6 million to victims who suffered after using Gardasil, the vaccine for HPV. In most suits, Merck is charged with the following: • fraudulent marketing and/or administration of an inadequately tested vaccine; • failure to inform the public about the potential risks of using Gardasil; • clear infringement of the right to informed consent; • ignoring new medical conditions in those who used Gardasil despite the similarity of their symptoms and the relatively short period of time between vaccine administration and the onset of symptoms; • ignoring established and new scientific evidence illustrating the potential harmful effects of Gardasil ingredients and manufacturing methods; • callous disregard for those suffering new medical conditions postGardasil; • failure to inform the public that HPV infections are simply one of the risk factors involved in the development of cervical cancer; • failure to inform the public that 90% of all HPV infections clear on their

own without medical intervention; • failure to inform the public about alternative methods of controlling cervical cancer; and • criminal liability for the injuries resulting from the administration of Gardasil For your peace of mind and the health of your children, pay attention to Dr. Dianne Harper. Dr. Harper helped design and carry out the Phase II and Phase III safety and effectiveness studies to get Gardasil approved, and authored many of the published, scholarly papers about it. She has been a paid speaker and consultant to Merck.

Dr. Harper says young girls and their parents should receive more complete warnings before receiving the vaccine to prevent cervical cancer. Dr. Harper questions the vaccine’s risk-versusbenefit profile. She says data available for Gardasil shows that it lasts five years; there is no data showing that it remains effective beyond five years.

Therefore, why do nine-year old girls need vaccinations for symptomless diseases that their immune systems kill anyway?

But there is more. In 2013, the Japanese government stopped giving the Gardasil vaccine after health officials recorded nearly 2,000 adverse reactions. Japanese health authorities recognized that the whole-cell pertussis vaccine was causing brain damage in healthy children and introduced a safer and equally as effective vaccine in 1981, a full 16 years before American health officials paid real attention.

Across Europe there is alarm. In the United Kingdom, there is the Association of HPV Vaccine Injured Daughters. There is an Irish parent support group called R.E.G.R.E.T. whose teens who have had severe side effects post-HPV vaccination. There is a Danish documentary film that details the severe adverse effects following the HPV vaccine experienced by young women in Denmark.

There is another safer way.

According to the American Cancer Society: A well-proven way to prevent cervical cancer is to have testing (screening) to find pre-cancers before they can turn into invasive cancer. The Pap smear and the human papilloma virus (HPV) tests are used for this. If a pre-cancer is found it can be treated, stopping cervical cancer before it really starts. Most invasive cervical cancers are found in women who have not had regular Pap tests. Since a pap smear detects the virus, why subject the children to a vaccine that is suspect at best?

Further, according to US Centre for Disease Control, over 80 million Americans carry the HPV, and the vast majority of them will not develop health problem symptoms or cancer. Further, the established science is that HPV will not cause cancer on its own and that most HPV infections go away by themselves within two years.

An international team of distinguished researchers in a published report stated “Persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) is necessary but not sufficient for the development of cervical cancer. The factors promoting persistence as well those triggering carcinogenic pathways are incompletely understood.”

We overburden our children with antibiotics and vaccines to their peril and our grief. The time to take another look is now.

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

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10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG Âenclave tourismÊ is modern day apartheid

Bradford University, England, since we know that ‘enclave tourism’ and the white migrants’ 1920s charity mentality TALEB RIFAI, Secretary-General of the destroying SVG and ruining many in the hands of major corporations that can never provide sustainable United Nations World Tourism Organization, Vincentians’ lives and livelihoods. develop these properties. Enclave development for the next generation of said “We cannot continue to build five-star Enclave tourism is apartheid and a tourism is of no benefit to Vincentians.

Vincentians, we urgently need to take hotels in three-star communities. Jobs and gross insult. The walls of apartheid need Enclave tourism does not grow the back our Atlantic Ocean billion-dollar charity are not enough…” to be brought down. economy and create the jobs necessary to fish industry from Taiwan and operate Taleb Rifai’s words ring true for HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman bin alleviate long-term economic deprivation. our own billion-dollar fish industry in Canouan and Mustique. The exclusive Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia said that ‘a Just take a look at Canouan and the SVG. enclaves in Canouan and Mustique are a country should be first for its people and destitution some of our people live in.

This would create thousands of new modern day apartheid system. then for its visitors’. In parts of SVG, the The reliance on tourism as the engine jobs and generate a significant amount Foreigners and tourists reside in opposite is true. of the SVG economy by the ULP regime of revenue for the SVG Treasury. Then, luxurious accommodation and live lavish Canouan has been turned into rich, shows poor vision. It will not bring we could properly cater for the needs of lifestyles, often flying in to Canouan on exclusive enclaves for foreigners and sustainable development, and it can be Vincentian people. private jet aircrafts. tourists, and poverty ghettos for seen that tourism mashes up the living ‘We cannot continue to build five-star Meanwhile, Vincentian locals in Vincentian locals. This has been done for environment and obliterates our culture. hotels in three-star communities. Jobs Canouan are forced to live in poverty visitors, and our people have been A number of persons from low-income and charity are not enough.’ The superand do the low-paid jobs of making up pushed aside and forgotten. families have complained to the Leader rich of Mustique and Canouan should beds, serving in restaurants and Enclaves for foreigners and tourists of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer take note of these words. The Mustique cleaning up after foreigners and tourists. make Vincentians second-class citizens Ivan O’Neal, that the ULP regime Charitable Trust is 1920s thinking and a The contrast is stark and obscene. in our own country. We are being fenced should have provided regular gross insult to our people.

On arriving at Canouan sea port, food out of our beautiful homeland, so that employment for the poor. Tourism is not traders are often mobbed for their food, foreigners can get a tan and gorge working.

SVG Green Party as Vincentian locals struggle to get themselves on expensive food and wine.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan www.svggreenparty.org affordable fresh food. Foreigners and Enclave tourism means any economic O’Neal, who has an Master of Science https://twitter.com/svggreenparty tourists have no empathy for the terrible benefits of tourism are not distributed to degree in Macro — Economic Policy and https://www.facebook.com/SVG-Greenplight of local people. Tourism is local Vincentians but, instead, are kept Planning in Developing Countries from Party-154937087877631/

Saluting Taiwan, 106 years of nationhood WE MUST salute the people of Taiwan as they celebrate another year as an independent state.

They do so in the same month that we here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines celebrate our 38th year of Independence.

Taiwan is, like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, an island state; but while their Chinese culture has been fashioned by a history that stretches back thousands of years, we in St. Vincent

and the Grenadines are yet in the stage of infancy, comparatively speaking.

Over a period of just over one hundred years, Taiwan has asserted itself, so that today it is undoubtedly an important player in world affairs, and her position ought to be respected. In that regard, Taiwan merits the support of the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, on any fora that so accommodate and provide opportunities for that expression.

On the other hand, it was disappointing to learn, that our government had indeed handed over all our licences to fish in the Atlantic Ocean, to the Taiwanese, with the result that today, Vincentians who have the expertise and are prepared to invest in fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, cannot get in on that lucrative trade. This is an important issue on which we urgently need to have clear and unambigious details, as to

the real facts relating to our licences to fish in the Atlantic Ocean.

No conscientious Vincentian can be indifferent to the fact, that there are hundreds of young people showing good potential, who have graduated from secondary and post-secondary institutions, in some cases over ten years ago, but can have no gainful opportunities in their homeland. This is to a large degree because of the stagnancy of the economy!

Recently, we heard from minister Stephenson that almost five hundred persons had their names added to the “Poor Relief List”, and we heard another minister say, that addressing relief to the poor was a prominent element of this administration’s socioeconomic thrust.

This brings into focus the strange approach of the ECCB in excluding agriculture from their “Eight Point Stimulation and Growth Plan”, of 2009. We must not forget that the sectors that were targeted for this stimulation experienced negative growth for three successive years after the implementation of the “Plan”. The point bears repeating, that when that plan was drawn up, the 6,000 banana farms then on record in SVG had the capacity to employ at least 20,000 workers almost overnight. Is there a better way to fight poverty than to provide gainful employment?

In the absence of

adequate data as to how exactly the Plan was executed by the ECCB, I am of the view, that, had the agriculture sector been appropriately addressed, we could have by now been enjoying a healthy trade with the U.K, and our economy would have been stronger by over one billion dollars.

I venture to suggest that the impact would have seen fewer vendors on the streets of Kingstown; fewer children staying away from school because of lack of funds; a prospering business community offering employment, and our young entrepreneurs having a good chance for success. The indifference and ineptitude of our administrators, who are accommodated by spineless, irresolute technocrats, go unchallenged by the apathy and ambivalence of the intelligentsia.

Recently, we heard that the Taiwanese are going to be assisting us with the restoration of our banana industry, and their effort must be appreciated, for if we are successful, there would be a tremendous improvement in our economy. The farming community is however skeptical about the sincerity of this effort, since the persons who have themselves been recognized as the agents responsible for the crippling of the banana industry, including the “St. Vincent Banana Growers Association”, the farmers’ organization which had for decades

provided vital services to the farmers, those persons still remain prominent players in the scheme of things.

The farmers’ lack of faith in the people at the Ministry of Agriculture is reasonable, when one takes into account, that for several years we have had the publicizing of plans, which were to see us resuming exports of bananas to the U.k. None of those bore any fruit.

The last one we had, was the Plan to plant 250 acres of new bananas between April and July of 2016. That plan followed the course of the five that preceded it; it got nowhere. How could the farmers be expected to have confidence in such persons?

It is understood that the Taiwanese assistance is bearing fruit for the banana industry in St. Lucia. So if they are prepared to assist us similarly, let us organize properly. We cannot afford any more of these games of empty talk, that our administrators have been playing at our expense.

There is serious work to be done to save our country.

We can learn from the Taiwanese in that regard.

They plan properly, and with all fully committed, they pursue their goals with energy. That is why they now can celebrate one hundred and six years, as an independent nation.

Long life and prosperity to them!

Le Roy Providence

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 11.

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‘It’s Flow’s Nine Mornings’!

through culture this Christmas season, she stressed that Flow will not be disappointing persons where creativitiy, innovation and entertainment are concerned.

Come this Sunday, December 10th, Williams stated, would be the staging of the first ever Flow Christmas Talent Competition which is set to take place on the Flow promenade.

Explaining that it is not the regular caroling competition, she Flow’s Country Manager elaborated that persons will be engaged in Wayne Hull THAT IS THE TUNE SUNG by performances ranging from dances to drama.

Marketing and Williams raved that it is Communications Lead nothing short of exciting Nikala Williams, when times, as persons are asked what is in store for eligible to win a grand the remainder of the 2017 prize at the end of the Christmas season. competition and further Williams emphasized that in an effort to further encouraged persons to lift the Vincentian Society participate in the

Flow’s Marketing and Communications Lead Nikala Williams. competition which will culminate on Sunday, December 17th.

Keeping in tune with tradition, Williams noted that the entertainment of the Rose Bank Drummers on Flow’s Christmas launching on November 17th, laid the ground-work for bringing about an authentic ‘Vincy Christmas’. The Marketing and Comms lead noted that she was thrilled to see that even

tourists were awed by the launching celebrations.

Not short for words as she raved about the planned ‘Nine mornings’, she however hinted that persons should brace themselves for the ‘Insomnia Sales Event’.

Stating that the first Sunday shopping on December 3rd was a huge success, Williams gave the assurance that the kids are not excluded from Flow’s Christmas celebrations, adding that persons can expect scores of activities on the Flow promenade to accommodate the kids on Sunday.

The Flow family also has plans to bring the Christmas celebrations to

scores of communities throughout the nation. On Saturday, December 9th, Williams said that the team will be embarking on its annual Christmas motorcade on the Leeward side of the country.

Further hinting that there will be surprises during Saturday’s motorcade, she urged persons to take advantage of ‘Flow’s special goodies and deals’.

Meanwhile, Flow’s Country Manager Wayne Hull said that he is more than thrilled with the response from customers thus far. He noted that persons have gravitated to the Christmas promotion.

Noting that the value of giving back to customers

is even more significant this Christmas season, Hull made mention of the Mega life makeover grand prize, as well as the community outreach which he claims to be a creative initiative to help develop the standard of living for many persons.

He committed that he will be heavily involved in such activities.

The country manager further urged customers to look forward to the much anticipated ‘Country Manager’s day’ where he would be engaged in a meet and greet with the company’s valued customers, where they will be given the opportunity to pick a gift from his box.

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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Nine Mornings Festivities launched

The Nine Mornings Festival is unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE 2017 NINE MORNINGS Festivities unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines - were officially launched last Sunday, December 3.

The festivities, which run from December 16 to 24 annually, will be staged this year under the theme ‘Christmas 2017 — Spreading the Love’.

And in keeping with the trend of the recent

past, Kingstown was awash with people, and filled with an atmosphere of celebration as the festivities were Luta was simply Luta – energizing, launched rhythmic and innovating with his with a lighted new number ‘In de Morning’. parade, the (Credit: Sydney Morgan – official facebook) turning on of recognized the support of lights at Heritage Square and a concert at government, the business sector, the many artistes the said square. and persons in the There was the usual Diaspora for their groups parade — Pancontinued support of the round-the-neck festival. steelbands, church Then it was time for groups, community the entertainment, groups — but this year featuring, among others, they were joined by a Luta with his 2017 Nine delegation from the Mornings release, ‘In De visiting Book Ship, MV Morning’, which, in Luta Logos, parading in the national dress/colours of inimitable style and fashion, ‘brought the the various ethnic groups/nationalities that house down’.

And while the major comprise the ship’s activity will be centred in complement. capital Kingstown, Nine Once at their final Mornings related destination, Heritage Square, the large crowd activities and typically Vincentian Christmas heard an address by type celebrations are Lennox Bowman, Deputy Chairman of the slated for a number of rural communities.

Nine Mornings Committee. Bowman

Retired Commissioner of Police Michael Charles leads a group in the parade. (Credit: Carlos Williams – Facebook)

The Green Hill Sports and Cultural Club transferred their J’Ouvert skills to the Nine Mornings Parade. (Credit: Carlos Williams – Facebook)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 13

News

SMS conducts community outreach with G’town teachers

by GLORIAH “I AM VERY GLAD this opportunity was available. It was a wonderful reminder, for me, of why I chose to pursue this endeavor [of medicine]”. These were the sentiments of future physician, Gregory Hazzard, after members of the Trinity chapter of the Society of Medicine and Surgery (SMS), engaged in a community outreach activity in Georgetown.

The “opportunity” Gregory mentioned, was the training of thirty primary school teachers of the Langley Park Government and Dickson Methodist Schools in Georgetown, in CPR and First Aid. So, on Friday, 24th November, five members of the SMS, led

by President Michael Seiferth, journeyed to the Langley Park Government School. Mrs. Vivian Hazzard, a trained nurse, accompanied them.

The resolve to conduct the training came from SMS’ belief that as future physicians, it is natural to want to help those in need. The essence of help in this activity was that the teachers involved had never had any training in CPR or First Aid. The information and practical sessions were starting points to instruct the teachers on the importance of: being prepared for any emergency scenario; understanding how to recognize an emergency; and knowing what to do in response to an emergency.

Therefore, with the teachers divided into groups, the training began. Each group went through theoretical sessions on the following topics: What is CPR; Responding to a choking victim; Responding to someone suffering from an asthma attack; Assisting someone who is having a seizure; Treatment of broken bones; Treatment of minor and deep cuts; Treatment of bee stings and insect bites; and Treatment of heat exhaustion and heat shock. During the practical session, there were demonstrations on how to perform CPR; how to splint a broken bone and bandage a deep wound; and how to assess a choking victim. The teachers then practised

procedures on each other.

They also had a chance to practice CPR on an adult mannequin and an infant mannequin under medical students’ supervision and direction.

While there were many laughs shared between those learning and those volunteering, the overall atmosphere was one of deep respect. The teachers felt grateful that they were learning skills that could potentially save someone’s life whether in the classroom, within the family setting or elsewhere in the community.

Nurse Vivian Hazzard expressed pleasure in her participation. “The overall reception by the principal and teachers was professional and warm.

The group exhibited verbally and by demonstration, their comprehension of the material and ability to apply the information,” she reported, “By the time the “hands on” learning session began, the room was buzzing with excitement, animation, and a high level of engagement. It was great to see the eager atmosphere among the staff of both schools. The commitment of the school leadership to prepare the staff with as much useful information as possible, on behalf of their students, is motivating and encouraging.”

Another SMS member, Caleb Ackerman, added his take with, “I was glad we were able to help the teachers in Georgetown.

It appeared they had never received any sort of instruction on First Aid before, so they should be able to benefit from the knowledge. They were eager to learn, and it was encouraging to see, as a result, that the Principal was planning on purchasing First Aid equipment for her school.”

Equally important, student Spencer Allen, acknowledged, “It was a nice opportunity for me to give back to the island by sharing some of my skills and experiences.”

By the same token, President of SMS, Michael Seiferth, looked at the advantage of being afforded such an opportunity as a student of Trinity. “By allowing students to get out of the

classroom and away from the campus setting,” he affirmed, “Trinity provides practical use of the knowledge learned at school, and allows us to pass this knowledge on. It also opens an avenue to foster a strong relationship with an underserved area in St. Vincent that could lead to

providing more teaching, training, and volunteering in the future.”

The Trinity Society of Medicine and Surgery will continue with similar outreaches in the New Year.

CPR techiques being demonstrated.

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14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

PCCU Police Christmas Caroling Contest 2017 THE POLICE CREDIT UNION Police Christmas Caroling will take place on Friday December 15, 2017 on the grounds of the Central Police Station commencing at 7:30 pm.

Since 2003, the Police Christmas Caroling Contest has been playing an invaluable and instrumental role in fostering a more harmonious relationship between members of the Constabulary and the general public.

The aims of the contest are as follows: 1.

To nurture the creative abilities of members of the

Force Foster and enhance team spirit among members Strengthen relations with the public and; Assist in building a celebratory atmosphere during the festive season.

Angels. In the junior category, the choirs are Barrouallie Police Youth Club Carolers, Bequia Police Youth Club 3.

Carolers, Sandy Bay Police Youth Club Carolers, Georgetown 4.

Police Youth Club Carolers, Petit Bordel Police Youth Club Carolersn and Questelles Police Station Youth Carollers.

There are thirteen (13) There will be guest choirs participating in this appearances from very year’s competition — seven exciting artistes including in the senior category Man Zangie (debuting his namely — Western Christmas single), Genesis Carolers, Eastern Steel Orchestra, the Police Carolers, Coast Guard Drama Club, the Police theme “Spreading Joy L-R: Inspr. Simmons, ACP Sampson, Bro. Michael Carolers, CPS Blasters, Band and more. and Peace throughout Charles, Bria Williams and Carlan Thomas of PCCU. Auxiliary Police Carolers, This year’s contest is the season’. A cordial CID Carolers and Traffic being held under the invitation is extended to Charles, Treasurer to the back to the Police Force, the public to join us in this Board of Directors of the which is responsible for wonderful time of PCCU handed over a the birth of the Credit celebration. sponsorship cheque in the Union. sum of $7,800 to Assistant ACP Sampson Sponsors Commissioner of Police, expressed gratitude on Mr. Carlos Sampson to behalf of the Police Force The Police Cooperative offset expenses for this for the sponsorship over Credit Union (PCCU who year’s contest. Bro. the years. The Assistant has ben a sponsor since Michael Charles stated Commissioner said that 2002, has once again that the PCCU board is the Police Force values the partnered with the Royal committed to the commitment of the Credit St. Vincent and the sponsoring the Police Union in sponsoring the Grenadines Police Force in Caroling Contest because contest over the years and sponsoring the contest. it is one of the most gave the assurance that On Tuesday December tangible ways in which the the monies will be well 4, 2017, Bro. Michael Credit Union can give spent.

2.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 15.

Diaspora

Honorees highlighted at VincyCares gala luncheon

Sherrill-Ann Haywood and her daughters Njeri (R) and Makeda, flanked by members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT THOUGH THE SPOTLIGHT was primarily on the late Vincentian community activist Maxwell Haywood, the other honorees were highlighted Sunday at the gala 8th Annual Luncheon of the Brooklyn-based Vincentian group, VincyCares.

Haywood, a United Nations Development Officer, died last Wednesday after ailing for most of this year. He was 54. His wife, Sherrill-Ann, received the award posthumously during the grand ceremony at El Caribe Country Club in Brooklyn, New York.

The other honorees included veteran Vincentian broadcaster Ferrand Courtney “Randy D” Lawrence Dopwell (Lifetime Achievement); disc jockeys Joseph Caiphas “SupaEyes” Joseph Cuffy and Jonell “Yung Hova” Goodluck (Vision Award); Curtis M. King, Headmaster of the St. Vincent and the GrenadinesGrammar School; and the Brooklyn-based Garifuna Indigenous People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Inc. (GIPSVG, Inc).

Dopwell’s primary school education started at the Wesleyan Methodist School in capital Kingstown and completed at the Kingstown Preparatory School; his secondary school education was at the St. Vincent Grammar School, which was completed in 1969.

Soon after his secondary school education, he gained employment with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Government at the Division of Customs and Excise before migrating to the USA in 1971 to attend the New York Business School.

He spent two years at the New York Business School before realizing that his choice of career was no longer business but to become a radio announcer.

Dopwell then migrated to Canada and attended Humber College of Applied Arts, where he completed his certification as a radio announcer in 1976.

“Randy D,” as he is affectionately

known, is a very popular radio personality globally. He currently freelances on NICE Radio in St. Vincent and the Grenadines with his Vibes Caribbean radio program, aired on Saturday mornings.

He is not only an on-air announcer, but has produced and hosted other programs such as “Snap Soul,” a Saturday afternoon—evening cultural show on the grounds of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Grammar School.

Randy D said this program showcased many young talents in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and also provided quality clean entertainment for many onlookers.

He said “Vibes Caribbean” television program highlighted the Caribbean market place, “where many small businesses in a Caribbean market, be it locally, regionally or internationally, got a chance to promote their business on television.”

This program was aired on such stations as SVG Television; Carib Vision in Barbados; Cable Vision and Direct Television in the US, and Rogers Cable, Belle Television and Asian Television Network in Canada.

Cuffy has had a long and illustrious career as the “Peoples’ DJ,” which began not in New York but in his early years in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In his homeland, he was originally known as “Living Eyes.” But, as time passed and the demands got greater, he said “it became necessary to put a team of workers together to help with the movement of equipment, etc.,” thus forming “Eyes Connection”.

On migrating to the US, Cuffy said he continued to hone his craft. As a result of not having his original team with him, he said he chose to change his name once again, assuming the sobriquet “Supa Eyes.”

He pledges once again his “unwavering support and commitment to the people and nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in whatever way and at whatever time” his services are requested.

Goodluck embarked on his journey to New York from St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2007 to further his studies in accounting and finance. Prior

to his departure, he studied accounting and economics for a short time via The University of The West Indies and the British Accounting program called “A.C.C.A.” Before moving to New York, Jonell founded an entertainment business in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, called “Powa Lynx Entertainment.”

He said Powa Lynx Entertainment highlighted the works of major local and regional artists, and promoted high profile events.

Goodluck said his natural ability to adapt to change, and his determination to succeed prompted him to use his school laptop to download music and post ads on Craigslist as a DJ. Through these ads, he said he acquired a weekly position as a DJ at a well-known Manhattan bar. A few years later, Goodluck said he went back to work in his field, working for an auditing company, but later decided to quit and concentrate on his brand and businesses. Veteran Vincentian broadcaster With his knowledge of business, Ferrand "Randy D" Dopwell receives marketing, networking and hard work Lifetime Achievement Award from ethics, Goodluck said he has managed to expand his brand “Yung Hova,” “which is VincyCares' President Gillian Arthur. currently well known within the entertainment industry and a household name among party goers in NYC.” King received his early education at the Belair Government School, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Grammar School, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Training College and the Commonwealth Caribbean Youth Center in Georgetown, Guyana.

He taught for 13 years (1983-1996) at the Gomea Methodist and CW Prescod Primary Schools in St. Vincent and the Grenadines before attending the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1990s. He graduated from UWI with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History, with honors.

King also holds a post graduate diploma in educational management and leadership from the University of Technology of Jamaica.

On his return to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, King was assigned to the St. Jonell "Yung Hova" Goodluck Vincent Grammar School as Graduate receives Vision Award from History Teacher.

VincyCares' Denise Craigg.

He has since served as Deputy Principal (Ag.) of the JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School and the West St. George Secondary School; and Deputy Head master of the St. Vincent Grammar School. He currently holds the post of Headmaster of the institution.

GIPSVG, Inc. said its primary mission is geared towards assisting the development of the communities located north of the Rabacca River on mainland St. Vincent.

The Brooklyn-based group said these communities play a major role in “the history and culture of our forefathers, who first settled in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

They include: Orange Hill, Overland, Sandy Bay, Point, Owia and Fancy.

GIPSVG Inc. was legally incorporated on Feb. 28, 2015, as a non-profit company. Its membership includes individuals born of Garifuna lineage and Curtis King, Headmaster of the St. Vincent Grammar also individuals who are School (L), receives award from VincyCares' public married into a Garifuna relations officer Michael Alexander. family.

V Adopt legally and wisely 16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ON FRIDAY November 24, 2017, an advertisement was published in the Vincentian Newspaper captioned “Private Attorney Assisted Adoption – Children of Any Age: All Inquiries Confidential - Call or Whatsapp 498-2262.

Based on the foregoing, the AntiTrafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) hereby informs the general public that the aforementioned advertisement is in contravention of the Children (Care and Adoption) Act (No. 10 of 2010). Section 133 (1) states “a person shall not publish or cause to be published in any form or by any means an advertisement dealing with the placement of a child for adoption”.

Subsection (2) further states “a person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding ten thousand dollars or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months”.

What does the law say about who can place a child for adoption?

Section 92 (1) (2) and (3) point out who are duly authorized to place a child for adoption. * Subjection (1) states “A child may be placed

for adoption in St. Vincent and the Grenadines only by the Adoption Committee”. * Subsection (2) states “A natural parent of a child or other person having the custody of a child may, in a manner which may be determined by the Adoption Committee, select a single person or a couple with whom he or she is to have his or her child placed for adoption as prospective adopter or adopters” and; * Subsection (3) states “The Adoption Committee may only place a child for adoption with a prospective adopter if the Committee is satisfied that the child ought to be placed for adoption”.

While adoption is a legal process and is permissible in the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines; the ATIPU advises persons who are contemplating placing their child/ children for adoption to use wisdom and always seek guidance from the Adoption Committee before doing so.

Adoption in itself is not a bad thing, but people with bad intentions can exploit the adoption process.

While there are many good outcomes in adoption; regrettably, it is also one of the many

Leacock says he remains loyal Continued from Back page. in the NDP camp, and, according to Friday, some of the NDP’s supporters had contacted him to indicate that they needed to deal with the matter internally.

“And we had a meeting this morning, and we will go forward to put the focus on the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines and the unity of the NDP because that is the best way for us to go forward for all our members,” the Leader of the Opposition said.

He emphasized that the differences exhibited were not differences that broke the party.

“We have come together always in the best interest of the country…so for those who may be rejoicing that the NDP is in shambles and breaking, that is not so.”

According to Friday, the people were number one, and the members of the party know that they can effectively lead the people; history demonstrates this, the party’s leader said.

“This is why the NDP is indivisible. We are the ones to bring prosperity to St Vincent and the Grenadines,” he concluded.

forms of human trafficking. Prospective adopters may apply for an adoption order and succeed in adopting a child - but it is what happens to the child after the adoption that really matters!

After adopting a child, you have to ensure that the best interest of the child is always taken into consideration. On the

contrary, the prospective adopter can exploit, abuse or traffic the child, as is the ongoing case in many countries. Be wise, be assertive - if you think it’s too good to be true, then it probably is.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Have I done the right thing? little over a week before we got involved sexually.

It so happened that as he I HAD A relationship with was taking his pants off, this guy, but we had to his wedding band fell to part ways rather the floor, and when I unfortunately after I asked him about it, he caught him lying to me.

He said he was afraid lied to me, saying that he was not aware such a to tell me the truth ring was in his pocket. because he was afraid I He continued to lie about would have left him, so he chose to lie to me. We it, until he finally admitted that it was his met about three weeks wedding band, and he ago and hit it off immediately. It took us a took it off because he did not want to scare me. He

Dear George,

said he was still married, but was in the process of getting a divorce, and that he and his wife do not sleep together although they live in the same house. I got very mad at him and literally chased him out of my house. Since that time, he has been calling me and leaving messages begging me to forgive him and to believe his story. I have not budged, and really want to get

Is she playing games? the lips, period. She wants to continue giving me pecks on the cheeks and I am disgusted by it.

I HAVE BEEN dating this girl; it We have declared our love for each has been one year now, and every time we get together, there is other and we are seriously dating. always the same problem. At least, We are even at the point where we are planning on getting engaged. It I am the one who has the problem.

She seems not to be bothered about is worrisome to me why she cannot the fact that I am bothered by it. I bring herself to kiss me on the lips. cannot get this woman to kiss me on Could it be that she is playing with me and has somebody else? Or that

Dear George,

your take on whether I should believe him and take him back into my life. I do not want to get hurt, which is why I asked him not to bother me anymore. Have I done the right thing?

Disappointed Dear Disappointed, If this man is in the process of getting a divorce like he said, then

she does not love me enough to kiss me in that way? Does she have hang-ups about kissing in that way and do not want me to know? I have so many questions. I have asked her when she plans to stop this childish way of kissing me, and she never answers. I am not the first guy she has had, and yet she is not agreeing to sex before marriage. Why should I hold on to her, not knowing if we would even get to that point of marriage and not getting the chance to find out more about her in every way. If she is playing games with me, I want to know now so I could move on.

Questions Dear Questions, It would help if you pose your questions to her directly. Do you know why she only wants to engage in sex after marriage? Is it because of religious reasons? Or issues from past relationships that are still very much alive and affecting her decisions to do or not to do? It is very important that both of you be on the same page and want the same things.

There must be room allotted for compromise and respect for each other’s wishes. Love has a way of making it possible to do exactly that.

George

let him get back to you after all the ties to his present wife have been cut and he is free, single and disengaged and available to you totally.

It is strange that he would hide his wedding band, knowing that he is on the way out of his present marriage. His reluctance to be forthright with you

leaves much doubt about his sincerity, and you did the right thing to send him on his way until he can present himself with a different marital status. This one looks, walks and quacks like a duck, therefore it is safe to conclude it is definitely a duck. Quack, quack!

George

Not her wedding Dear George, I AM ENGAGED to this wonderful man and we have agreed to be married in the middle of next year. There is one problem though. His mother is deeply involved in his life and wants to plan the entire wedding ceremony. I want us to have a small wedding, but his mother insists that we have a big wedding, and yet does not want to financially contribute to making it so. She wants to invite all of her people, and has ignored our wishes to not have certain people at the ceremony. I love my fiancé dearly, but if he cannot stand up to his mother and take charge of his own wedding, then I do not care to risk my life fighting with her over her son. My mother is around, but she is not the one to impose and, added to that, she is not in a financial position to help out. All I want is for both of us to fund our own wedding and to have the kind of wedding we want. His mother is welcome to give ideas etc., but she has to understand that this is not her event.

Trying to be cool Dear Trying to be cool, Your fiancé should take the lead and have a sit down with his mother, letting her know that her suggestions and assistance are welcome, but she has to back up a bit. The standard he sets now in terms of taking charge of his own affairs will pretty much set the tone for future communications between him and his mother, and the boundary lines he sets down now will also determine the degree of her involvement in both of your lives. Mom just needs a gentle reminder that this is not her event, and she ought to allow you both to design it just the way you want. It will be a good idea to further discuss this in your premarital counseling sessions, assuming that you will sign up for that.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Visitors may drop by unexpectedly, resulting in tension with your lover. Plan a day of enjoyment with them. You don't want to give anyone fuel for the fire. Don't let coworkers interfere with your objectives.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Verbal abuse may lead to walkouts; don't make any rash statements you may regret later. Your colorful conversation may attract new mates. You may find travel to be most rewarding. Your competitive nature will enable you to win any contest you enter.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Maybe it's time to look into ways you can improve your health. Your emotional partner may make you angry this week. Obstacles may stand in your way where career and suc‐ cess are concerned. Be sure to pay attention to your bank account.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) You will find that you are able to clear up a number of small but important details.

Exercise your talents and present your ideas to groups you think you can contribute to.

This might not be a day for hasty decisions.

You can make progress professionally Your lucky day this week will be Thursday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) They will not have the patience to wait for you to complete things that they've asked you to do. Express your interest if you want the rela‐ tionship to progress. You need to concentrate on the areas where you can make a difference.

Your tendency to vacillate will drive everyone crazy.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Don't blame others for your own stubborn‐ ness. Travel will be enjoyable but could be expensive. Accept the inevitable, and opportu‐ nities for advancement will follow. You must‐ n't give too much to your children.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Do not react too harshly when dealing with partners. Better still, take your mate and let them foot the bill. You should make special plans for you and your lover. Spending too much time talking to friends or relatives could easily turn into a debate that could lead to estrangement.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Hidden matters are likely to surface. Spend time with friends and relatives. Travel for pleasure. You can help them with difficult projects. You need activity Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Make changes that will enhance your appear‐ ance and entice potential partners. You may find out that someone is trying to undermine you. You can make wonderful contributions to any organization that you join. Your need to use emotional blackmail will only cause more conflict.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Make those phone calls and pay your bills. You will learn easily if you put forth an effort. You can make progress if you deal with the right individuals. You may want to try your hand at a little creative writing. Don't let your boss get the better of you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Hold on; your time will come. Don't let emo‐ tional upset force you into the poorhouse.

Make sure you concentrate if operating machinery or vehicles. Pleasure trips or friendly get‐togethers will be satisfying and intellectually stimulating.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Your emotional partner may make you angry this week. Home improvement projects will run smoothly. Take time to listen to the prob‐ lems of family members. Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts.

ACROSS 1. Clock face 5. Carbonized fuel 9. Dip in liquid 12. Skin eruption 13. Gap 14. Comrade 15. English monk 16. Log house of rural Russia 17. Consumed 18. Broad 20. Russian country house 22. Roof of the mouth 25. Break 26. Follows orders 27. Veinlike deposit 28. Coloring material 29. Chatter 30. Fur scarf 33. Rounded lump 35. Unfolds 37. Arcade 40. Sayings 41. One‐celled protozoa 42. Comply 43. Ingot 44. Juniper 46. Metal fastener 50. Unit of electrical resistance 51. Notion 52. Inwardly 53. Narrow beam of light 54. Standard 55. Microphone DOWN 1.Tap gently 2. Frozen water 3. Besides 4. Extra time 5. Reproach

6. Exude slowly 7. Long‐sleeved linen vestment 8. Containing tetraethyllead 9. Room 10. Vows 11. Entreaties 19. It is 21. Very skilled person 22. Seed vessel 23. To endure 24. Shelter 25. Steal from 27. Laboratory 29. Tibetan gazelle 30. Implore 31. 1 32. Donkey

33. Soviet secret police 34. Nicotinic acid 35. Lyric poem 36. Heathen 37. Toil 38. City in Nebraska 39. Full of gems

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 19.

40. At right angles to a ship’s length 42. River in central Europe 45. Fuss 47. Black bird 48. Class 49. Alkali

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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Barrouallie secures Football League title dedicated the win to its former captain Roy “Chicken” Richards, who was shot and killed last July.

In getting to the final, Barrouallie had a 3-1 win over Calliaqua in the first semi- final, with Layou edging out Sion Hill 1-0 in the other semi-final.

Calliaqua went on to take the third place, beating Sion Hill 3-2. Calliaqua’s Shandell Samuel given a guard of honour by his goals came from Layou team mates last Sunday night at the Victoria Lezlo Mc Kenzie Park. two and Omar Cupid the other. Sion Hill’s Bank of SVG Barrouallie- Inter- Community League Football champions.

Samuel, who turns 35 60th minute. goals were netted by later this month, said he He had gained the Delano Webb and Juma BANK OF SVG from behind win for rocket a shot from an has also ended his sobriquet “ Bound to BARROUALLIE took hold of Barrouallie, as Myron acute angle, with Kenyon Gilkes. representation for St Score”, as in his heyday, the Senior Men’s division Samuel had put Layou in Lynch in goal, having no Vincent and the his goal scoring ability Shandell Samuel calls it Grenadines, having of the St Vincent and the front with a free kick, as chance. made him one of St Grenadines Football early as the 3rd minute Neither team was able a day debuted at this level in Vincent and the Federation (SVGFF) Interof the match. to put themselves in a 2002.

Grenadines’ top goal Patrons at the Victoria Community League Trivis Fraser better position, with He was granted the scorers of all time.

Park last Sunday night, opportunity to captain Football title last Sunday equalised for Barrouallie Layou having a clear Samuel has played saw the last of Shandell the Layou team in his night at the Victoria Park, in the 27th minute. chance, but Myron semi — professional in beating arch-rivals and Then, in the 38th Samuel’s feeble shot did Samuel in that format of last match, and was Barbados and Trinidad national competition, as given a guard of honour defending champions minute, Chavel not trouble the and Tobago, and had a he announced his Layou, 2-1.

Cunningham slipped Barrouallie custodian. by his team mates, when short professional stint But it was a come past his marker, to The Barrouallie team retirement. he was substituted in the in Malaysia.

Ball Revolution boosts Ottley Hall community football THE BALL REVOLUTION made its mark on the Ottley Hall football programme, held last weekend at the Ottley Hall Playing Field.

A major contributor to the event, the Grassroot Tennis Club’s Ball Revolution left an imprint on the community with the donation of a set of balls.

The provision of the balls will ensure that the programme at the suburban village’s playing facility will be sustained by the members of the constabulary who are assigned to the Ottley Hall sub-station.

The GTC also donated a trophy, supplied the event with bottled water, and ensured that running water was made available at the playing field, and other amenities were operational.

On hand were Trinidadians Rafer Ross and Wesley Webb of Third Party Logistics, who shared the knowledge with individuals, donated gear and helped in the distribution of awards.

Evaluating the programme, founder of the Ball Revolution initiative Grant Connell related: “The final of the Ball Revolution was well received and was timely on a weekend when the police caught the rhythm and hosted a tournament with four teams.

“The presence of the two established football coaches from Trinidad and Tobago added aura to the occasion, where they were able to share their knowledge, and made donations of apparel…It was also good to have on hand parliamentary representative for West Kingstown Hon. Daniel Cummings and former area representative- Rene Baptiste, who graced the occasion with their presence”, Connell highlighted.

Connell thanked all those who contributed to the Ball Revolution event.

He named Nikolas Boyea, Dr John Frederick, Wayne Alexander, St Vincent Motors, Shorn Gun-Munro, Thomas Wholesale, Paradise Beach Hotel, Be Fit Movement, Boom FM, Third Element Sounds, DJ Diago, Roger Adams, Aeropost and Deron Grant, among those who made an input to the activity.

“I must single out Garth Saunders of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority for his understanding, and ensured that water was connected to the facility, thus ensuring more sanitary conditions for the weekend’s activities and beyond”, Connell reinforced.

Dillon Moore (right), one of the stand outs, gets a pair of boots from Rafer Ross.

Supporters of the Ball Revolution from leftConnell noted that linkages Lindon James, Rodney Small, Rene have been made with Kenrick Baptiste, Rhondy “ Luta” Mc Intosh, Grant “Scrambler” Alexander, a Connell- the brain behind the project.

Vincentian who coaches in the USA, where it is being explored Saturday at Ottley Hall. for him to source gear to further Through the initiative, the Ball enhance the Ball Revolution Revolution has generated over 100 programme. balls to the various communities.

The Ball Revolution has touched Connell projected more exciting down in Calliaqua, Sharpes, South times ahead for 2018, when the Ball Rivers, Bequia, Fancy, and ended last Revolution restarts.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. 21.

Sports

Lennox John completes first stint AFTER nine months of coaching, the Lennox John Cricket Academy completed its first stint last Saturday with a ceremony, where the players were presented with certificates of participation.

The Academy accommodated twenty players, which included three females. The 34 sessions covered technical skills, mental and physical preparation, matches, as well as in house sessions dealing with topics on life style.

In the individual awards, Alison Antoine was the Most Improved Player, Jeremy Layne the Best Batsman, Jaheil Walters the Best Fielder, and Luke Wilson the Best Bowler.

Irvin Warrican, Head Coach of the Academy, said he was pleased to see the progress some of the players made during such period. “Some of the players went on to represent SVG and the Windward Islands, so that’s a very good start, where we look at a holistic development of the players”.

The head coach also believes that getting parents involved in their kids’ life where a cricket career is concerned, critical. “Most of the players are talented, but some lack the commitment, and here is where the parents need to continue to support them”.

Warrican also expressed thanks to the coaches Bertrum Stapleton, Samantha Lynch, Alston Bobb,

L-R: Jaheil Walters, Jeremy Layne and Luke Wilson.

Kenroy Martin and Kenroy Peters, coordinator Cleton Barnet as well as the SVGCA. Kishore Shallow, President of the SVGCA, also praised everyone who shared ideas of this initiative, stating “This is a start, we have gone past looking at sports as a recreation. The statistics show that cricketers are the highest paid sports professionals in the Caribbean, and our players who are on a franchise system earn more than a graduate lawyer, in addition to their match fees. It is a tremendous opportunity for our players, hence we at the SVGCA will continue to facilitate the process to help players get to that stage, so this is really the foundation”. The President, however, cautioned the players against complacency. “In the past, once you divorce academics and sports, you don’t really achieve your true potential in life, just the discipline from studying will help with sports. In fact, as part of the criteria for next year’s players’ enrollment in the academy, the association will monitor the players’ progress in school, and if the grades go down, we will reach out to the parents with a warning or two, in an effort to get the kids grades back up to standard before he/she be accepted back in the academy. “ The President also stated, that “The budget for the Academy is approximately over $40,000 and we will be looking to attract some sponsors next year to continue the academy.”

Lennox John said he has always been a humble person, and is honored to have the Academy named after him. “I have given over 50 years of my life to cricket, and I don’t know if I’m worth it, but I am honored by the decision taken by Dr. Kishore Shallow, one of my students at the Grammar School, and his executive. When you do something and you do it in sheer love, you don’t do it for any high praise and expectation of high pay, and that’s what I live for in this life,” the stalwart sports administrator and educator added. John, while congratulating the players, expressed continued

Sion Hill Tallawahs boss Greiggs Softball Cricket competition SION HILL Tallawahs landed for the first time the Hairoun Brewery/ FLOW/ Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem 20/20 Softball Cricket title, when they beat Bruce Law Chambers Smashers Inc. by two wickets last Sunday at the Greiggs Central Playing Field.

Smashers batted first, making 104 for 6 from their 20 overs; Delano Woodley topscored with 23. Alex Roberts took 3/15 and Erwin Williams had 2 for 13, bowling for Sion Hill Tallawahs.

In reply, Sion Hill Tallawahs used up 17.2 overs, to reach 105 for 8.

Leading the batting, was Erwin Williams who scored 44, while Glendon James snared 3 for 4, Zeron Harry took 2 for 16, and Ranwrick Peters had 2 for 28.

Erwin Williams earned the Player of the Final award, for his 44 runs and 2 for 13.

Before the final, Country Meet Town Outa Trouble beat Street Fighters by 62 runs, to take the third place. Westrick Straugh slammed 66 not out and Saski Weekes- 47 not out, to see Outa Trouble to 161 for 5 from their 20

overs.

Bowling for Street Fighters, Kevon James took 2 for 11 and Recaldo Thomas 2 for 23. Street Fighters 99 all out in 19.1 overs; Antonio Barker topscored with 25.

Kenron Williams had figures of 4 for 23 and Jerando Jardine 3 for 20.

Awards

Sion Hill Tallawahs- champions of the Greiggs Softball Cricket Competition.

Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem’s Ceon Phillips was the Top Run-scorer with 295 runs.

Taking the Most Wickets- 18 was Shamic Roberts of Sion Hill Tallawahs. Roberts was also the competition’s Most Valuable Player, as he also scored 88 runs.

Smashers Inc.’s Delarno Woodley was the Best Wicket keeper, while Gairy’s Construction Simple Boyz’ Ian Bushay got the award for taking the Best Catch.

Smashers’ Theresa Jack was named as the Best Manager, while Clenton Woods was listed as the Best Umpire.

Getting the award for Most Loyal Spectator was Harley Rawlins.

Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem won the awards as the Most Disciplined Team and best at the March Past of the opening day of the competition.

Members of the Lennox John Cricket Academy with Lennox John and Kishore Shallow. support for the Academy. “If it can help in any further way to see this academy grow and grow, my hope is to join the presentation party next year and have something presented in my name”.

Players who completed the programme are, Handel Roban, Soloman Bascombe, Newton Browne, Cody Dabreo, O-Jat Mathews, Dwayne Henry, Kirtney Franklyn, Irvin Warrican Jr, Jarrel Edwards, Luke Wilson, Jahiel Walters, Tijourn Pope, Rayon Williams, Urnel Thomas, Jerden Jacobs, Jeremy Layne, Roshorn John, Japhina Joseph, Kimone Homer and Alison Antoine.

The next phase of the programme will begin in February 2018.

I.B.A.ALLEN

SVG announces Under-15 Team

THE NATIONAL YOUTH selectors have named a 13-man squad to represent SVG in the upcoming Windward Islands Under-15 Tournament, which is scheduled to bowl off here in SVG from Sunday, December 10th to 17th.

Randy Joseph, son of former Windward Islands leg spinner Orlanzo Jackson, will lead the team.

He will have off spinner Luke Wilson as his deputy for the limited overs tournament, which will be played at the Park Hill and the Cumberland playing fields. SVG will be looking to capitalize on the home advantage, turn their fortunes around and capture the title, which has eluded them for over a decade.

Fixtures for the tournament are as follows: December 10th SVG vs. Dominica at Park Hill and St Luca vs. Grenada at Cumberland.

December 11th Grenada vs. SVG @ Park Hill and Dominica vs. St Lucia @ Cumberland. December 12th rest day. December 13th SVG vs. St Lucia @ Cumberland and Dominica vs. Grenada @ Park Hill.

December 14th Dominica vs. St Lucia @ Park Hill and SVG vs. Grenada @ Cumberland.

December 15th rest day. December 16th SVG vs.

St Lucia @ Park Hill and Dominica vs. Grenada @ Cumberland. December 17th Dominica vs. SVG @ Park Hill and Grenada vs. St Lucia @ Cumberland.

The full squad reads, Randy Joseph-Captain, Luke Wilson-Vice Captain, Newton Browne, Reshawn Lewis, Akeem Alexander, Joe Williams, Omarion Ottley, Soloman Bascombe, Coby Dabreo, Keon McMillian, Shamaur Peters, Kedon Hackshaw, Devon Fisher wicket keeper.

Reserves are, Kamanie Husband, Kodi Grant, Jazad Farrell, Kirtney Franklyn, and Trevian Mathews.

Bertrum Stapleton, former Windward Islands batsman, will coach the team, and will be assisted

by Orlanzo Jackson and Kenroy Martin. Samuel Holder is the manager.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 08, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Until July 15

BY THE TIME July 15 arrives, there will be an abundance of reaction. Many will have come and gone, and the finalists will clash for the 2018 World Cup. The teams have been lined up for the first round, when two teams from each of the eight groups will advance to the sixteen.

Thereafter, it will be knock, and the cauldron will increase. Some pundits might be bold enough to come up with some accurate projections.

One will have to see who progresses from Group A. Will it be Russia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt or Uruguay?

Group B features: Portugal, Spain, Morocco and Iran.

France will consider themselves likely to dance, given their record. But that hardly matters, for Peru, Australia and Denmark can and perhaps will cause some tremors.

South Americans are known for their knack of the big stage, and, given the ninth hour entry that Argentina secured, observers will be looking to see how far Lionel Messi extends his pedigree.

Iceland’s inclusion is no coincidence and no one offered them any easy passage. The fact that they have eclipsed Trinidad and Tobago as the smallest nation to the World Cup stage, is no reason why they should not be taken seriously.

But with Croatia and Nigeria also bidding for glory, the race will be heated.

Group E shows Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia. One might want to pay Brazil their respects, and they will want to erase memories of the debacle suffered on home soil last time around.

The other contenders are certainly not pushovers, or they would have been on the roster.

The same thing could be said about Germany, tipped as favourites in view of their ranking and consistency. Mexico, Sweden and Korea will be jostling for the other spots. But with a dog eat dog situation, absolutely no one is taking anything for granted.

Belgium heads Group G, with Panama, Tunisia and England completing that quartet. England ought to advance by virtue of the dynamism of the Premier League. Belgium has some things in its favour. But Panama will want to seize their initial impact on the World stage, while Tunisia will relish their return to the high level.

Poland Senegal, Colombia and Japan complete Group H. Poland, with the European banner, will have some standard to maintain. Senegal will want to prove that African footballers can hold their own. Japan will have to believe that it is time for them to prove their grit.

All hope and speculation will be put to rest, and the ninety minutes on the turf will determine how the next round matches up.

Junior squash players get good Barbados outing KAI BENTICK led the St Vincent and the Grenadines’ fortunes at the World Junior Circuit Hilton Barbados Squash Open at the Barbados Squash Club last weekend, by capturing the Boys’ Under-17 and Under-19 Singles titles.

Bentick, in the final of the Under-17, defeated Darrien Benn of Barbados, 11-3, 11-6, 115. He then whipped Chemar Burnham, also of Barbados 11-6, 11-4, 11-3, in claiming the Under-19 title.

The St Vincent and the Grenadines team also picked up one silver and two bronze medals.

Jaydon Williams was unable to stop Nathan King of Barbados in the Boys’ Under-11 final.

King came out winner

11-2, 15-13, 11-7.

Meanwhile, Mikal Quashie took the bronze in the Boys Under-19, when he defeated Kemar Lord of Barbados 11-4, 11-5, 11-6, as the two squared off for the third place.

Also winning bronze for St Vincent and the Grenadines was Nadira Morgan, who fell short to Barbadian Phoebe Gittens, 11-13, 5-11, 911, and had to settle for the third place of the Girls’ Under-13.

In the other minor places, Mikhail Quashie was fourth in the Boys’ Under-15, when he lost 9-11, 2-11, 12-14, to Zishan Motara of Barbados, while Jayden George won the Boys’ Under-11 consolation, with an 11-6, 11-7, 11-7

Back row from left: Nadira Morgan, Kai Bentick, Mikal Quashie. Front row from left – Jayden George, Jaydon Williams and Mikhail Quashie. win over Nikolas Greigg of Barbados.

Jaydon Williams placed fifth in the Boys’ Under-13 consolation, registering scores of 11-2, 11-7, 11-2 over Raziel Lopez of Barbados.

The six players are part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Junior Development Programme.

They were accompanied to Barbados by coach James Bentick.

Winlott Inc/WICBC Under-15 Cricket Tournament bowls off soon ST. VINCENT & The Grenadines Cricket Association (SVGCA) will host the 2018 edition of the Winlott Inc/WICBC Under15 Cricket Tournament, which takes place from Sunday December 10th to Sunday December 17th, 2017. Matches will played at the recently opened Cumberland and Park Hill playing fields.

The tournament was originally slated to be held in April 2018, but was rescheduled to accommodate the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Tournament which will now take place in April 2018.

Winlott Inc has been sponsoring both the Windwards U15 and U19 Tournaments annually since 2015, under their brand Super 6, at approximately EC$160,000 per tournament. Prior to 2015, Winlott Inc sponsored the Windwards T20 Tournament from 2010 until 2013, when it was dropped from WICBC’s calendar of events.

The tournament has over the years been the nursery for Windward Islands youth cricketers, with several gaining selection to the Windwards U15 and U19 teams, and regional West Indies Under 19 team.

Vincentians Gidron Pope and Obed Mc Coy along with Ryan John of Grenada, were part of the West Indies Under 19 team that clinched the 2016 ICC World Cup. Emmanuel Stewart, who is a member of the Grenada Senior Cricket team, will captain the West Indies Under 19 team to the ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup 2018. Other players selected to represent the West Indies from the Windwards at the 2018 ICC Under 19 World Cup are Alick Atanaze of Dominica and St. Lucian Kimani Melius.

Winlott Inc is a nonprofit organization owned by the four Lotteries in the Windward Islands. The Super 6 game, a multi island Lottery game with a starting jackpot of EC$200,000, is sold in the four Windward Islands, and funds regional sporting events in the Windward Islands.

The technical operations are located in St. Lucia, while the Secretariat is located in St. Vincent.

FOR RENT 4 - 1 bedroom apt. at New Montrose 593-8674

Executive Director of Winlott Inc Ms. Allison Thomas presents cheque of $100,000.00 to Secretary of SVGCA Inc Mr. Samuel Holder in the presence of Winlott Inc Chairman Mr. Murray Bullock.

Executive Director Ms. concluded Windward Allison Thomas and the Islands Senior Female Chairman Mr. Murray Football competition Bullock of Winlott Inc, which was held in St. presented a cheque of Vincent in November EC$100,000.00 to Mr. 2017.

Samuel Holder, The Winlott Secretary of the St. Inc/WICBC Under 15 Vincent & the Competition will Grenadines Cricket commence this Sunday Association Inc. on December 10th, with December 5th, 2017 host St. Vincent & The towards sponsorship of Grenadines taking on the tournament.

Dominica at Park Hill, In addition to cricket, and defending champions Winlott Inc has St. Lucia facing Grenada sponsored the annual at the Cumberland Windward Islands School Playing Field.

Games, since the late 1990s to date, and more recently the just

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 08, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.49

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LEACOCK SAYS HE REMAINS LOYAL

provide the best leadership to the New Democratic Party going into an PARLIAMENTARY Representative for election campaign.”

Central Kingstown St Clair ‘Major’ However, on Tuesday, following a Leacock has indicated that he has no meeting between Friday, Leacock and fear that the comments he made the NDP’s other Vice President, regarding his own suitability for the Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews, he (Leacock) leadership of the New Democratic Party said on the New Times programme, (NDP) will have any adverse effect on his that he was in full support of the political career. party’s leader.

He further told THE VINCENTIAN “The President has spoken, and in a telephone interview on spoken well of the historical nature of Wednesday, that he remained “loyal the party,” Leacock said. and committed” to the NDP. He explained that the idea to meet The opposition Parliamentarian with the two vice presidents and party occupied most of the discussion this leader was the initiative of Friday. week, after he made comments in “We spoke frankly together; it was a public how he felt about the chance to understand the basic appointment of the leadership of the principles which guide and define each party, comments he made during a of us.” radio programme.

“It’s not time for finger-pointing, for And this followed on him speaking one-upmanship for either of us to feel publicly against the appointment of that either of us has to give way or attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste as a concede or compromise what is good senator, replacing Dr. Julian for the party,” Leacock said.

Ferdinand about a week ago, and for He spoke to those whom he which former Leader of the NDP, described as rejoicing over the seeming Arnhim Eustace took him to task. But rift in the party, that his loyalty to the on Monday, Leacock was heard party had not dissipated, and that he ‘venting’ about the selection of Dr wore proudly the commitment to the Friday, and who eventually was voted NDP. in as the party’s new leader in 2016.

And that he was ready now, more Since then, Leacock has made his than ever to serving the people. feelings known in the public, saying “At any one time, there can only be that he believed that he was the better one leader, and we have an effective person to lead. leader, and as part of my job is to work He told the Dwight Joseph on Boom with him and ensure that he 106.9 FM, that he still believed that he succeeds,” Leacock said. was able to provide the best Friday, who addressed the leadership. programme first, said that the NDP “I thought I had done enough to be had a strong foundation; “We have had the person to replace Mr Eustace as ups and downs. the leader of the New Democratic “We are a political party and a lot Party,” he said. has been said recently about us “If you ask me how I feel inside, I washing our linen in the public,” he still feel and I genuinely believe I can said, but it was his belief that with

by DAYLE DASILVA

L-R: St Clair Leacock, Roland Matthews and Leader of the New Democratic Party Dr. Godwin Friday, emerged after Tuesday's meeting, saying that there was no disunity within the party. dialogue, the party would be able to grow stronger.

“Today we had a meeting at the headquarters and had a lot of frank discussion about issues of concern. The NDP is a united force going forward to build St Vincent and the Grenadines.”

He further noted that there was a

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

common cause that existed among the members of the party, and that was to remove the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) from office.

There were some people on the other side saying that there is Continued on Page 16.

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