Vin pages 14 07 17 e reader for web

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JULY 14, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.28

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Little Tokyo - MASQUERADE PARADE GROUND

Little Tokyo TRANSFORMED - now DESTINATION TOKYO

Little Tokyo - AN EYESORE

(Story on page 14)

2. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 Three shooting deaths in less than three hours

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 3.

THE HOMICIDE count in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the year so far climbed from thirteen to sixteen within the space of less than three hours.

Reports are that Police responded on Saturday, July 8, to information that gunshots were heard in Green Hill at around 7:00 pm.

When the smoke subsided, so to speak, two men were taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital nursing bullet wounds.

One of them, Kemmie Haynes, a 38-year-old

labourer of Green Hill, succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The other, Darren Williams, also of Green Hill, up to press time, was warded at the MCMH. Haynes’ death moved the homicide count from thirteen to fourteen. That figure would soon be eclipsed.

Still hot on the scene in Green Hill, police were alerted around 9:40 the same evening, to a shooting in Barrouallie.

A police report that followed said 78-year-old

shopkeeper Daniel Hepburn, who was said to have returned some time ago from the UK, and 34-year-old Roy ‘Chicken’ Richards, both of Barrouallie, were shot.

Hepburn is said to have died on the spot. Richards died at the MCMH where he had been taken for attention.

Richards was well-known in football circles here, having been a member of the national senior team.

His death threw the football fraternity into mourning, and a number of

Roy ‘Chicken’ Richards, one of three persons to be shot and killed within less than a three-hour span. persons who played with and against Richards, took to Social Media to express their shock at his passing. (See related story on page 25.)

In the space of less than three hours, the homicide counted had moved from thirteen to sixteen.

Police investigations into both shooting incidents are ongoing.

Decomposed body found The RSVG Police Force has put out a public appeal seeking information with respect to the identity of a body found at Yambou. In particular, the appeal goes out to families who might have a missing member.

According to Police, the partially decomposed body of a male was discovered sometime around 1pm Sunday, July 9, in an area known as Cocoa Maje, in

Yambou.

Police said that the face of the unidentified corpse was partially decomposed, but the rest of the body was intact.

The corpse, when discovered, was shirtless and clad in a pair of long blue jeans and blue shoes.

Police also told THE VINCENTIAN that the individual has a tattoo of a spider on the left forearm, just above the wrist.

Man dies during domestic dispute INVESTIGATIONS are ongoing into the death of 69-year-old retiree Henry Jackson of La Croix.

According to information supplied by the Police, Jackson succumbed to the injuries he sustained during an altercation with his wife, 49-year-old Hermelia Jackson.

Police sources indicate that the couple was involved in a dispute sometime around 11 Tuesday

night, when Jackson received an injury from his wife and eventually succumbed to that injury sometime after midnight, at the Evesham Health Centre.

Up to Wednesday, no charges were brought against Hermelia Jackson, this according to police.

She was, however, assisting the police with their investigation.

(DD)

V

4. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Man charged for robbing businessman

Kentish Williams was denied bail when he appeared in Court last week Friday.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS THE MAN WHO is accused of the June 1, 2017 robbery of popular businessman Philo ‘Phil’ Moses of New Montrose, was remanded when he appeared in Court last Friday July 7, following strong objections to bail

by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche.

Kentish Williams, also known as Keith Williams, 37, of Ottley Hall, has been charged with robbing Moses, who operates a bar at the Kingstown Vegetable Market, of EC$930.00, and at the time of so doing used a gun.

It is alleged that around 8:50 pm, on the night in question, Moses was closing his bar when an unmasked person entered, pointed a gun at him and demanded money.

Moses reportedly threw the money on the floor, but while the assailant was picking up

the cash, Moses pulled his licensed firearm from under the counter and fired two shots, one grazing the left side of the attacker’s head.

Reports are that the intruder ran, escaping with some of the money.

Moses made a report to the police who subsequently received information that a man was seen lying in the public road outside the Haddon Hotel at Mc Kies Hill with what appeared to be a bullet wound to his head.

Police went on the scene and took the man to the hospital.

He was identified as Kentish Williams, but while receiving medical attention, he eluded custody.

Williams was subsequently apprehended and charged with the robbery.

He was not required to plea when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court July 7. He was not represented by a lawyer.

In objecting to bail, the Senior Prosecutor described Williams as a flight risk, noting that he had eluded custody at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Delpleche added that the gun allegedly used to commit the offence was not recovered.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that most of the money was recovered.

Williams is expected to return to Court on July 21, when bail would be reviewed.

Youth jailed for gun, ammo ROMELL HANAWAY, 20-year- old labourer of Brighton, was handed a 4-year sentence at the Serious Offences Court last Friday, July 7, for possession of a .25 pistol, without licence.

Hanaway also received a 3-month term for having one round of .25 ammunition.

The sentences, handed down by Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, will run concurrently.

Hanaway, who was not represented by a lawyer, had pleaded guilty to both charges.

He was arrested on June 28, at the Grenadines wharf. The facts revealed that he had gone to the wharf to assist someone, but a police officer there became suspicious of him and conducted a search of his person, revealing the loaded gun.

The Chief Magistrate has, over the years, been consistent in her very serious approach when it comes to firearm and ammunition possession offences.

Carnival peaceful, amidst unrelated homicides COMMISSIONER OF POLICE Renold Hadaway has applauded all who participated in Vincy Mas 2017 for the cooperative manner in which they conducted themselves.

“They certainly made our job easier,” the top cop told THE VINCENTIAN during an interview on Wednesday.

He also lauded the officers of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) for a job well done in ensuring that locals and Commissioner of visitors enjoyed themselves in Police Renold a safe and peaceful Hadaway is environment. pleased with the Hadaway outlined that on cooperation the Monday and Tuesday, the Police received from the public climax of Vincy Mas, there during the recent were a few fights and an carnival festivities. incident in which someone was charged with possession of an offensive weapon, but no major incidents occurred on the streets of Kingstown.

He admitted that the weekend was very busy and challenging for the police, as there were four homicides, the discovery of two bodies, and a burglary in which a police officer was charged, but added that there was no evidence that any of these incidents was related to Carnival activities.

The top cop explained: “Although there were instances in which some vendors sold alcohol in glass bottles to some customers, the ‘no glass bottle policy/law’ continues to be a major factor in the reduction of violent incidents during Carnival activities.”

He concluded that “the Carnival celebrations and related activities were conducted in a very peaceful environment”.

The Commissioner seized the opportunity to commend the Public Health workers for a ‘sterling’ job in ensuring that the streets were cleaned daily.

He also expressed condolences to the relatives of those who lost their lives during the Carnival period.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 5.

Regional - Caricom

Prime Ministers clash AS CITIZENS of the 13-nation Caribbean CARICOM have grown accustomed to seeing and hearing, there was a show of ‘unified positions’ at the end of the most recent Heads of CARICOM. Summit which closed on July 6 in Grenada, having been convened on July 4.

During the course of the Summit, Prime Ministers Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, left the discussion before its conclusion.

Dr. Gonsalves returned home on receipt of news that his mother had passed away, while PM Browne had to return home to “address matters of state.”

But there was time, before their respective departures, for PMs Gonsalves and Browne to find

themselves at variance with incoming chairman of CARICOM — Dr. Keith Mitchell of Grenada.

Dr. Gonsalves and Dr. Mitchell clashed on the issue of LIAT, after Mitchell, in his ‘welcoming’ remarks on opening day, Tuesday 4th July, criticised the political influence on the operations of regional airline LIAT, whose principal shareholders are the governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“I have long held the belief that political presence on the board of airlines, such as LIAT, is not helpful to its proper management and efficiency,” he said.

On Wednesday, not one for taking any swipe at LIAT sitting down, Dr Gonsalves publicly disagreed with Mitchell on the problems facing LIAT,

and even appealed to regional governments to invest in the airline.

Also on Wednesday, Mr. Browne took issue with Mitchell over remarks in relation to the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

Mr. Browne, it was, who, Dr. Keith Mitchell *centre) found himself attacked on one side by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves unlike PM Mitchell, had disagreed with a CARICOM (left) and on the other side by Gaston Browne.

(Photo Credits: caricom.org) Sub-Committee on Cricket Governance recommendation desire to dissolve the Board.” that the WICB be disbanded, and an With Dr. Gonsalves and Mr. Browne interim committee installed to run the ‘out of the way’, the Summit proceeded affairs of cricket in the region.

In a strongly worded statement, he to reach consensus on some of the hinted that Mitchell was “a particular agenda items. (See accompanying story head who is of the flawed opinion that on this page.) (Sources: Caribbean with my support and other heads that News Now, BarbadosToday) he could achieve his compulsive-obsessive

CARICOM mission for Venezuela IT APPEARS that following the very public collapse of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member unity at last

month’s Organization of American States (OAS) summit in Mexico, the Community has made amends among itself, and

has arrived at Some news another ‘unified agencies position’ with respect describe to the ongoing crisis Caracas as a in Venezuela. war zone, According to Dr. (Credit: Keith Mitchell, Prime Sputnik Minister of Grenada International) and newly installed the longChairman of the 15nation grouping, the 39th running, bitter impasse with Annual Summit held in Opposition forces.

Grenada last week, has What this means, Dr. reached consensus on Mitchel said, is that ‘the next step on CARICOM has agreed on Venezuela.”

Dr. Mitchell, in a post- sending a mission to summit news conference, Caracas.

Dominica’s Prime confirmed that leaders Dr. Keith Mitchell, Chairman of the CARICOM, Minister Roosevelt will formally offer their disclosed plans to send a mission to Venezuela, help to President Nicolas Skerrit hinted at the amidst that country’s ongoing crisis. (Credit: Maduro, to help mediate possible make-up of the Caricon.org) mission, when he proposed that it should include some leaders which, he further suggested, could help THE FOLLOWING are some of the economies of member states, as clarify CARICOM’s actions — IN BRIEF - agreed by the Leaders register concern about the understanding of the 38th CARICOM Summit, held in high cost of regional travel. issues.

Grenada, July 4-6, 2017: * Implement measures to In the meantime, * Send a mission to Venezuela facilitate ease of travel in the region. * Make efforts to strengthen and Call for Government-owned airlines to “CARICOM heads of government call for all breathe new life into the CSME. continue to work towards increasing parties to commit to Identify the roadblocks that have their level of collaboration and engage in a renewed hindered the progress of the CSME coordination. dialogue and negotiation and formulate an implementation plan * Address the need for fresh leading to comprehensive to ensure the outstanding measures efforts to curb the ravages of Nonpolitical agreement with are addressed.

Communicable Diseases (NCDs), like established timetables, * Ask the Caribbean diabetes, through legislation and Development Bank to finance a study intensified public education activities. concrete actions and guarantees to ensure its on the impact of aviation taxes on the (Source: caricom.org) implementation.

CARICOM heads of government offer their good offices to facilitate this dialogue,” Dr. Mitchell said.

Venezuela is currently locked in a series of opposition-led often violent street protests that began some three months ago, resulting, according to The press conference at which actions agreed by the 30th CARICOM summit www.telesurtv.net, in the were disclosed. Pictured (from left) Secretary-General of CARICOM deaths of 94 persons.

Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, PM of Grenada and Chairman of CARICOM Dr. (Source: caricom.org) Keith Mitchell, Outgoing Chairman of CARICOM President David Granger of Guyana, and Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness. (Credit: caricom.org)

Actions proposed by CARICOM

Trinidad police carry out a raid after gang violence. (Credit: Insight.Crime)

CARICOM must address crime and violence JAMAICA’S Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders will have to address and grapple with the issue of crime and violence in the region, in a serious way.

Towards deepening the conversation on his suggestion, Prime Minister Holness has asked that the issue of crime and violence be listed as an agenda item at the next CARICOM summit, scheduled Prime Minister of for Jamaica in July, 2018.

Jamaica Andrew The Jamaica Prime Minister, Holness addressing the press conference addressing the post the 38th Summit held in post CARICOM Grenada, July 4 — 6, told the press media that crime and violence conference had not been a matter on the during which he agenda for this summit, he had made his call for taken the opportunity to raise the crime and the matter here. violence issue to “I raised the issue from the be given serious perspective of not just a security attention by his issue but from a macro-social colleague Heads. perspective that the use of violence as a means of resolving conflict, as a means of social control, as part of our social transactions, that it is becoming almost a feature of our societies..”

Holness said that regional governments have to take a “proactive role in addressing this issue, so I have asked CARICOM to place this on the agenda for our next meeting, and heads have agreed.

“So this will become an agenda item, and I believe that this will start a process within CARICOM to address the issue of violence and in particular violence that ends up in crime.” (Source: CMC)

V

6. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ÂFYA EMPRESSÊ: Guilty of being Calypso Monarch Glenroy ‘Sulle’ Caesar wanted ‘More Carnival’. He got fourth place instead.

Zamfir ‘Man Zangie’ Adams just failed by a ‘lil bit’ to reclaim his title. bent on doing the beaver trick. He rendered the songs ‘Enough no more,’ and ‘Celebrate’, and was relegated to the second position.

Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ pleaded ‘Guilty’ on her way to Third place was taken by debutant Joanna taking her second Calypso Monarch title.

Christopher with: ‘Good friends,’ and ‘Can’t we find a way?’.

Eight other contenders vied for the crown.

Glenroy ‘Sulle’ Caesar took the fourth postion on the judges’ tally with his ‘Self Help’ and ‘More Carnival’.

The evening opened with Kenneth ‘Vibrating Scakes’ Alleyne whose compositions were ‘In 40 years’, and ‘Accountability’.

He was followed by Shernelle ‘Skarpyan’ Williams with ‘Mama’s lost son’ and ‘One’.

Cecil ‘Lil Bit’ Murray did the numbers ‘Somebody’ and ‘World Peace’.

She released a white pigeon, a symbolic gesture of peace to usher in the delivery of ‘World peace’, and the bird remained perched on the roof of the main pavilion throughout her performance, and long enough to see Cleopatra Hendrickson’s performance of ‘Something must be done’, her second round number. Cleo’s first song was ‘Chronic phone addiction’.

Glenford ‘Azarah’ Charles appeared in position Joanne Christopher made it to the finals on her first try,and number eight, and rendered the songs ’50 years’, a must have felt satisfied with her third place. tribute to Starlift Steel Orchestra on their 50th Anniversary, and ‘Conflict’. by: WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY Robert ‘Patches’ Knights sang in the number ten position. His renditions were ‘Unsung heroes’ and LORNETTE ‘FYA EMPRESS’ NEDD performed the numbers ‘Hallelujah’.

‘Guilty (as charged)’ followed by ‘Hope is Alive’ at Victoria Sheena Collis, who stormed her way into the finals in Park on the night of July 9 at the Dimanche Gras Show, and the first year as a frontline singer, completed the list became the 2017 Calypso Monarch of St. Vincent and the with her the songs ‘Protect yo head’ and ‘No more’.

Grenadines.

The calypsonians were accompanied by the Police This is her second lien on the title, having ascended Band which has been providing that service for the past the throne in 2012.

21 years.

She dethroned Zamfir ‘Man Zangie’ Adams, who was

Robert ‘Patches’ King’s ‘‘Hallelujah’ was one of the better received songs on the evening of the Calypso Monarch.

Sheena Collis should take much from her debut year.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 7.

News

Fireman: Back in winnersÊ row DELROY ‘FIREMAN’ HOOPER came ‘out of the bush’ to secure his ninth Soca Monarch title.

He did so from among twelve other contestants, including defending monarch Shane ‘Hypa 4000’ Husbands, on the morning of Sunday 9th July at Victoria Park.

It was ‘Fireman’s’ first Soca Monarch title since his sweep of the Ragga and Soca Monarch titles and Road March title back in 2014 — a feat that is yet to be repeated.

Rounding up the top three positions were Hance John (Jab) in second place, to add to his Ragga Soca Monarch title, and defending monarch Shane ‘Hypa 4000’ Husbands (Riddim Section) in third.

There was a tie for fourth between Ryan ‘Royall’ Abraham (Upfill) and Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd (Country Meets Town).

If anything else, ‘Fireman’s ‘ ‘WILD’, his entry for the competition, had been picking up momentum in the days leading up to competition night.

And there was intense anticipation of his performance on the night, with patrons arming themselves with any piece of shrubbery they were able to find, as they impatiently awaited the official call for ‘Fireman’.

When the results were announced early Sunday morning, the decision was welcomed with unanimity by the thousands-strong crowd.

“I am excited, I am really excited

Shane ‘Hypa 4000’ Husbands defended well but not good enough to retain his title. about all my fans — without my fans I am nothing,” he told reporters.

Witnessing his performance for the first time was his 10-year-old son.

“My son is 10-years-old, and I performed at number 10. This is his first Soca Monarch and I am proud.

He said he wanted to go, and he was

Hance John placed second in the ‘Big People Soca’ competition to add to his win in the Ragga Soca.

Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper notched up his ninth Soca Monarch title and brought along his son to help inspire that victory.

on stage, and that is all I cared about,” Hooper continued.

Rounding up the appearances were Alhaji ‘Alla-G’ James (Winery), Travis ‘Wizskid’ Lynch (Mudda Corn), Napthali ‘Napthali’ Duncan (Outta Place), Kenroy ‘Rus-t’ Baptiste (Frontyard), Leslie ‘Flanka’ Chapman

(Jessica), Keith ‘Grabba Finesse’ Charles (Madness), Shanel Nanton (Temperature) and Jamarie ‘L Pank’ Stapleton (Mad Power).

(DD)

Hance graduates to Senior Ragga title HANCE JOHN, AN ACCOUNTANT by profession, is the 2017 Ragga Soca Monarch of SVG. He took his first senior title, after a successful campaign in the junior category, from a field of eleven, on the night of July 4, at Victoria Park, disposing of defending Monarch Chewalee in the process.

John put to spend any fear that his supporters had about him performing first.

He hit the stage with an immediate air of confidence about him, and

Hance John, ably assisted by his dancers, on his way to his first and deserving Ragga Soca title.

proceeded to entice with remarkable smoothness and cohesion, as he belted out his popular ‘Sugar Mami’, accompanied by the appropriately choreographed movements by members of the La Gracia Dance Company.

“The announcement of his victory was greeted with unanimous approval port from the thousands who had packed Victoria Park on the night.

This win means a lot to me, not only for myself but for those who are very determined. I got to say big up to the fans for the love and support, and I look forward to your support over the years to come,” he said during an interview after being crowned.

He added, “This win is very special, not only for me but for a very good friend that has passed, Karrisa Clarke (former employee of THE VINCENTIAN) who died in May. This win is for Karissa…,” The second position was taken by the veteran and tagga Soca Monarch of 2011 Shernelle ‘Skarpyon’ Williams with a song ‘Stay Home Wine’.

Third place went to the duo of Kalid ‘Kavides’ Walters and his uncle Deklroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper who combined to do ‘All day’.

Other contestants were: Defending Monarch Chewalee Johnson with ‘Play Soca’; Allaji ‘AllaG’ James — ‘Wutlissness’; Shaunelle Mc Kenzie — ‘Soca Antidote’; Jamarlie ‘L Pank’ Stapleton — ‘Fete after Fete’; Cleopatra Hendrickson — ‘Public Media’; Devonte Peters and Utamu Rose The duo of Kalid ‘Kavides’ Walters Shernelle ‘Skarpyon’ — ‘Prime- Code Rode’; Keronna ‘Keke’ Samuel — and his uncle Deklroy ‘Fireman’ Williams, second place, ‘Ma May Lay’; Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd — continues to demonstrate he Hooper secured third place to keep ‘Under Dey’, and Nikeisha ‘Nickky D Diva’ the North Leeward presence among belongs among the top Pierre — ‘Gimme’. the best. artistes in this country.

V

8. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 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 Where goeth our Creative Industries?

SO THE MUSIC IS TONED down if not turned off, and we retreat to the demands of daily life as it really is.

After all, the last two weeks or so, during which we indulged in activities and behaviour of gay abandonment, provided comic relief, so to speak, in the tragedy of life in which we are all equally billed actors — or so we would want to convince ourselves.

And even as we ‘wine down’, our CARICOM colleagues in St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda are just about getting ready for their ‘big people parties’.

Summer, a word and season we have adopted from the said countries whom we accused of unfair cultural penetration of our fragile societies, is alive with expressions, some say, of a people — Caribbean people — overflowing with synergies that speak to a constant flow of creativity.

That said, it is not an inopportune time — on the heels of Vincy Mas and on the brinks of other so called Caribbean Summer Festivals (Carnivals), to reflect on what all this ‘partying’ means for productivity and wealth creation.

Carnival and its component art forms and attendant services combine to form a niche in what we have accepted as our creative industries — our Soft Power.

Year in year out, we — CARICOM - speak volumes about how talented our performing artistes are; how much ‘good music’ we create; how unbelievable creative our artists; how incomparably skilful our artisans are; and how much carnival means to our economies.

In fact, the CARICOM website, in a section on Creative Industries, professed to have recognized “the important contribution of cultural and creative industries to the economies of the region, and have recognized that with the creation of an enabling environment with the necessary policy, legislative and institutional support, the cultural and creative industries could realize exponential growth, create jobs and wealth in the region and positively engage especially young people of the Community.”

We understand that to mean that CARICOM leaders share these sentiments.

That said, can we say, with any level of confidence, that CARICOM governments have created ‘enabling environments, framed appropriate policy, passed and enacted legislation, and given institutional support so that the cultural industries ‘could realise exponential growth’?

Yes, the shouts are already bearing down with: ‘What about the Copyright Laws we have passed’? What about our efforts at protecting intellectual property rights across the board?

So much for those actions. They pale against what is really necessary to encourage a genuine recognition and upliftment of the cultural industries.

Take for example the noise we continually hear about building a toruism industry. To what degree does that industry connect with our cultural industries? How much have we done, are doing to ensure that that industry reflects the ingenuity of our culture, our people? When, for example, was the last time a hotel/resort here featured a Vincentian cabaret night?

The government has to take the lead in facilitating the recognition and utilizing of the local creative/cultural industries.

If it means that government must fund a national art collection to give recognition to our artists, then so be it. This could only lead to a follow suit attitude by private businesses — hotels, banks, for example.

It is time that we step out of believing that the ’be it and end all’ of our cultural energies, creativity and industries is organising a series of festivals. There is nothing wrong with festivals, but when they remain a disconnect between them — one that dichotomises art forms and cultural enterprises rather than encouraging cohesion - then we are spinning top in the same mud.

We sit idly by while world exports of creative goods and services rake in an estimated $702 billion and counting upwards. A share of that cake for 110,000 persons might be a slice, but that slice could well translate into meaningful bounty for our people and country.

The world over, cultural/creative industries are morphing as strategic choices for economic growth, employment and social equilibrium.

To think that we are ‘too small’ to cash in on this growing mother lode is to deny that we are a creative people with something to offer to the world.

It we don’t get out of the vicious cycle that is steeped in a debilitating inferiority complex, we will remain there to wallow in our own self-pity.

If carnival can’t translate into ‘bigger and more far-reaching benefits for our people and economy’, then let’s just party all year round.

THE PASSING OF THE PM’S MOTHER THE LATE THERESA FRANCIS of Colonaire, the mother of our Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves, died last Tuesday at the ripe age of 98, just two years short of a century which would have pleased her son who sets great store by numbers.

Miss Francis had been a grand old lady who helped Ralph’s father, Alban ‘Smiles’ Gonsalves, by running a shop at home while he attended to the lands, turned his hands over in agriculture and did trucking business.

I got close to both parents when Ralph was at UWI, then later as a lawyer, I acted in a case on behalf of the Diamond Banana Boxing Plant of which ‘Smiles’ Gonsalves had been a member, and when I attended court in Colonaire and sometimes even at Georgetown, I would drop in at the shop for a “bite” during the lunch break. Miss Francis would greet me with my usual bread and beef or sardines, and bottle of Red Ju-C. I talked politics with the parents, especially with mother, who kept me abreast with Ralph’s thinking, until his later return when we linked up in the UPM 1979, split but remained close friends up to the 1990s, by which time I had been declared a “political enemy”.

Meantime, I got on reasonably well with the parents up to the father’s death ten years ago, by which time I began to lose contact with Miss Francis who I understood had fallen ill as it turned out, fatally.

I believe that Ralph has truly been his mother’s son, judging only from her spirit of hard work, decisiveness and independence traits, which she engendered and passed on to her illustrious son.

Our Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves, can claim that he remains the only head of Government sufficiently blessed as to run administrations that took care of both his parents for six and sixteen years respectively.

None of Cato or Eustace enjoyed this privilege, and Son Mitchell only in the case of his mother.

carnival about 1942 when I had been a four-year-old.

The show was at the Government House which crowned the Botanical Gardens.

My caretaker was Evangeline Williams, a family friend and sister of Carteil Trotman, formerly of Trotmans Enterprises.

At that time, wire-masks were prevalent. I was devastated when I witnessed the fatal shooting of one masquerader by another in cold blood, in the presence of dignitaries who applauded!

I worried Vanny to get me out of that lawless place at once, perhaps to avoid the onset of approaching trauma. On my way out, I saw old kaisomen, Baha Lawrence and Grumma.

I have had my full share of Carnival following that horrible debut. In my autumn days, I now enjoy carnival mostly listening to radio coverages which carried a heavy dose of the good old days, probably as a reaction to those who laugh at themselves unconsciously when they opt to laugh at those of us who they deem tied to a past which is our future.

Nonsense!

Callers reminded of brilliant masmenindividuals: Leroy King, the Jack brothers and the living Bouchers of Paul’s Avenue. The Bottom Town posse of Milton Reid, Jimmy Waldron, Winston ‘Sammo’ Samuel and Vibert De Shong.

A later generation of Bottom Town gave us the bois-bois resurrection through Patches Knights and Louise Millington’s maypole dancers.

In fact, the maypole dance, which is a British relic, had been preserved by our Anglican community which featured it at our annual May-Fairs, from which Louise rescued it temporarily.

Around 1949, Raphael Davidson came out with Halls of Montezuma that was revolutionary in its introduction of the cape and velvet, that generally replaced the satin and silk formerly favoured by masmen.

With Davidson also came the steel-pan Carnival remains a Bacchanal from Trinidad which progressed in fits and starts from a spate of bands in the A further interesting feature is that early 1950s-Sycopaters, Melody Makers, Ralph E. Gonsalves has been the only Sunny Valley Serenaders through successful leader whose parents had not Abucalyps to Starlift, and other been married to each other. Could that sophisticated steel orchestras that today factor establish a peculiar affinity with produce geniuses like Rodney Small as the masses whose social experiences were the finished products of Walton ‘Tanny’ similar? It’s worth thinking about!

Peters, Francis’ Pess’ Llewellyn, Errol We can claim a fairly successful Sutherland, Ashley Kirby, Roddy Dowers outcome of a shameful misnomer and other “Unsung Heroes”. splashed as 40 years of carnival, when I do not fear for our carnival. Change every sane person is aware that the roots is the very essence of life. The seed may of carnival was sunk deeply in our germinate into a flowing plant: but try as history. Ask Dr. Fraser and others. you may, this caterpillar will never grow I personally recall my first visit to into a multi-coloured decorative flower.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 9.

Letters

Dancehall music Mental Health Awareness Series and crime must interfere with one’s level of functioning in some way. Behavioral DEPRESSION is a word that we are all too familiar symptoms of depression include: depressed mood; with, as many of us have loss of appetite; used it one time or another. We may find our- diminished interest in or enjoyment of activities; selves in a sad state psychomotor agitation or because something did not go the way we wanted retardation; sleeplessness or it to. For example ‘not hyperinsomnia; lack of getting the A we studied energy; poor so hard for’ or ‘my bf just concentration and left me and I feel so alone’, and sitting by one- indecisiveness; social self in a sad mood we may withdrawal, suicidal thoughts and/ or utter, “I am depressed.” gestures; feelings of This however is not what hopelessness, defines depression. worthlessness or Depression is inappropriate guilt; low distinguished by a depressed mood, or a loss self-esteem; unresolved grief issues; or moodof interest or pleasure in daily activities. This state related hallucinations or delusions. must last for more than In its mildest form, two weeks with a mood depression can mean just that represents a change from the person’s baseline being in low spirits. It doesn’t stop you from behavior. It may impair leading your normal life, function in social, occupational, educational but makes everything harder to do and seem and other areas of less worthwhile. At its functioning. most severe, depression According to the can be life-threatening Diagnostic and because it can make you Statistical Manual, a feel suicidal or simply person must have at give up the will to live. least 5 of the following Depression can often symptoms for over a period of 2 weeks, and it come on gradually, so it

Depression

I RECENTLY came across a document from Jamaica which, among other things, reported that a study had shown that ‘dancehall’ music is named as “one of the causative factors of crime and violence” in that country.

I am a firm believer that this statement is correct. When I behold the type of videos that accompany some of this music, it makes my blood crawl. There is open glorification of ‘gangsterism’ and further, nothing but sexual promiscuity.

We are having our fair share of killings among a younger generation here, and there has been enough sexually explicit videos on social media that tell us our young people are sexually active at even younger ages.

While I also agree that this ‘dancehall’ music is not the only ‘causative factor of crime and violence’, it is time that we do something to censor what we show on our television here. I know everything you can dream under the sun is available on the internet and we might have no control over this.

But we must move to control what we can, if we are to guide our young people into living positive, upright lives.

Gaston Davis

More $$ for Vincy Mas??

WELL, BRO EDITOR, it has been some time since I last dropped THE VINCENTIAN A LINE. To tell the truth I was trying to come to grips, very quietly, with all the developments at home — shooting, killing, the accountability matter, the election petitions, and the list can go on.

I hope to come back to make some comments on those issues but I want here to just make a short simple point.

I read in your regional page last week (July 7) that the Minister of

Culture in Antigua had gone to his cabinet colleagues in support of more money to make sure that country had a gala celebration for its 60th Anniversary of its carnival.

When I read this, I wondered: Did our Minister of Culture do a similar thing for the 40th Anniversary of Vincy Mas? It would be interesting to hear if the CDC got any increase from the government.

Happy Carnival to all.

Garnet, NY.

Standing firm with Venezuela WHILE I AM saddened by the show of disunity among CARICOM countries on the Venezuela crisis, I am pleased that there are some who are prepared to stand with Venezuela.

I want to encourage those countries to stand firm in their position.

Those CARICOM countries who have taken up the position to support Venezuela, I am sure, understand that the Venezuela crisis is as much created by foreign administrations as it is by a disgruntled class of Venezuelans who might have felt that the socialist revolution begun by Hugo Chavez was a threat against their positions of wealth and power which they were never prepared to relinquish far less share.

I say to those CARICOM governments who have been open in their support of the Nicolas Maduroled government in Venezuela, to stand firm.

This is no time to turn our backs on a generous benefactor.

Thomas

can be difficult to notice something is wrong. Many people try to cope with their symptoms without realizing they’re unwell.

It can sometimes take a friend or family member to suggest something is wrong.

Common signs and symptoms of depression in children and teenagers are similar to those of adults, but there can be some differences. * In younger children, symptoms of depression may include sadness, irritability, clinginess, worry, aches and pains, refusing to go to school, or being underweight. * In teens, symptoms may include sadness, irritability, feeling negative and worthless, anger, poor performance or poor attendance at school, feeling misunderstood and extremely sensitive, using drugs or alcohol, eating or sleeping too much, self-harm, loss of interest in normal activities, and avoidance of social interaction.

In addition, Depression is not a

normal part of growing older, and it should never be taken lightly.

Unfortunately, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in older/geriatric adults, and they may feel reluctant to seek help.

Also, keep in Mind: a large number of substances of abuse, some prescribed medication and several medical conditions can be associated with depression-like symptoms. Depression in itself may be a symptom of a larger problem.

Compiled by: Ellica Matthews – Counsellor at Mental Health Rehabilitation Center Email: mhcsvg@gmail.com Contact #458-4240

Congrats to all the Carnival organisations and groups CONGRATULATIONS to Fya Empress on her second take of the Calypso Monarch title in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There is no doubt that the young lady has honed her skills well in her adopted homeland (Trinidad and Tobago), and, if I dare say, can teach a thing or two to the home-based calypsonians.

But this, Mr Editor, is much more an expression of congratulations to Starlift Steel Orchestra.

First, allow me to congratulate Starlift on their 50th Anniversary.

This is no simple feat and must be recognised as anything but this.

Correct me if I am wrong, but there is only one other organization/group in SVG that I think has been around for fifty years or more. That is the Maple Sports Club So whenever an organization can celebrate fifty years of unbroken togetherness, it means that it has stayed the test of time,

and that it has allowed itself to grow, all the while nurturing one generation after another.

Therein lies the mammoth contribution that this steelband has made, i.e. grooming young men and women not only in the rudiments of pan playing, but what it means to belong to an organization, and moreso what true camaraderie means.

To persons like Errol Sutherland, I say, this country might not, as a whole, recognise what you have done to ensure that Starlift has become the institution that it has. This, however, should never blind you to the fact that there are hundreds who know and have felt the benefit of your commitment in real and tangible ways.

‘Patches’ struck the correct chord when he listed you among the ‘Unsung Heroes’ of our country.

I wish Starlift a long and successful future.

Fifty years would

definitely not have been filled with ‘beds of roses’, but knowing that you have stemmed the test of good, bad and indifferent times, should fill you with overwhelming pride and commitment to stay the course well into the future.

Finally, I wish to thank the Editor for so willingly assisting in fine-tuning this piece.

Gaston Stokes UK-Based

V

10. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Primary school speakers tackle parental issues

THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS Public Speaking Competition was established by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment fourteen years ago, with the objectives to: heighten the students’ awareness of an issue that may affect their health; encourage them to conduct research; improve their communication skills and build selfconfidence.

This year’s Competition, featuring eleven finalists, called upon the students to take a careful look at the “health” of their attitudes and actions. They were required to speak on and to the topic: ‘Should Parents Be Blamed or Not for the Misconduct of Their Children?’’

When the presentations were made and the adjudicators’ scores tallied, Brielle A. Compton of the Bequia Anglican Primary School was declared the winner.

Brielle used, among other references, three passages from the book of Proverbs, written by the wise King Solomon, each passage highlighting the responsibility of

parents to give their children directions early in their lives, clearly supporting her ‘take’ on the topic.

Second place winner Participants in this year’s Primary Schools Ansonique Cuffy of the Public Speaking Competition.

Georgetown Government Health Promotion Unit, who had School took second place with a addressed the ceremony earlier, more liberal, academic approach announced that the top three employing the Social Learning participants in the competition had Theory which proposes that people learn from one another by observing done well for themselves and their schools. behaviour. ‘’But what was even more Kiara Bynoe from the Paget Farm government school, was third. noteworthy,’’ Wyllie said, ‘’was that two of the three winners came from She argued that ‘parents can only set a child in the right direction and the Northern Grenadine Island of Bequia,’’ a first for the competition. hope that he or she follows the Telecommunications service path’, confident in the fact that ‘you provider Digicel was, once again, can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.. She concluded the Competition’s primary benefactor, providing trophies for that children are often influenced the winners, among other gifts to by peers instead. the participants.

An interesting turn to the All participants also received proceeding occurred when shortly after the presentations, news of the certificates of participation and token gifts compliments the results for the national CPEA Ministry of Health, Wellness and arrived. the Environment.

Ms. Patsy Wyllie, Head of the

Youth Guidance Programme graduates forty ON THURSDAY 6TH JULY, 2017, forty students from the Fair Hall Primary School were presented with certificates for having participated in a Most outstanding Ministry of Health, students.

Wellness and the Left to right: Nisa Environment Nichols, Grace Browne, Youth Guidance Shyann Sutherland, JProgramme’s ten- Quan Browne and ; week course.

The course was (front) Joshua Dabriel , coordinated by the with Angelene Andrews Health Promotion (Course Coordinator) Unit in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

Course Coordinator - Community Health Promotion Officer Miss Angeline Andrews said that she was overwhelmed by the level of participation by the students, and felt obliged to demonstrate her appreciation to the students by donating other tangible gifts.

To this end, she solicited the support of her family members who willingly donated six (6) tablets to the most outstanding students.

This is the third year that such donations are made to students in the programme.

The objectives of the programme were to: assist children and adolescents to develop their potential for enriching the quality of individual, family and community life; assist children and adolescents in adjusting to the growth and developmental changes they experience in making the transition from childhood to adulthood; help children and adolescents to cope effectively with the stress situation associated with growing up; help children and adolescents to take care of the environment.

In addition to the Fair Hall Primary School, the Course has been conducted at the Richland Park, Mesopotamia, Cane End and Sandy Bay government schools.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 11.

Views

Rainbows in my cloud

“I DON’T EVER Feel that I’ve had no help — I have rainbows in my cloud.

And the thing to do is to prepare yourself so that you can be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud. Somebody who may not look like you; who may not call God the same name that you call Him; who may not call God’s name at all. May not eat the same dishes prepared the way you do. May not dance your dances or speak your language. But be a blessing to somebody.” — Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014), American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist.

Many of us have been fascinated by the beauty of rainbows as they span across the sky. The multi-coloured arc always seems to have a way of fascinating us — causing us to marvel at the powerful God who placed them there (if only for a fleeting moment).

Some of us will reflect on the Old Testament passage that indicates how God placed the rainbow in the sky, following the great flood, as a reminder that he will never again destroy the earth with water (Genesis 9:9-17). Our wonder is magnified many times over when, on very rare occasions, we can observe more than one in the sky at the same time.

What beauty! What splendour! What a marvel of creation!

The rainbow has seven major colours (and all the hues between); red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet (ROYGBIV).

Thanks to the Internet, and especially YouTube, we can learn so much about how rainbows are formed. For example, it was there that I came across a presentation by Gena Mahlen who provides a simple description of how the rainbow is created (http://faculty.cord.edu/manning/physi cs215/studentpages/genamahlen.html) . She explains that a rainbow is a meteorological phenomenon that is caused by reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light in water droplets.

This process results in a spectrum of light appearing in the sky. She notes that rainbows always appear in the section of sky directly opposite the sun. In addition, she reports that millions of rain droplets are needed and the sun has to be at a particular angle in relation to the earth (40-42 degrees) for this unusual phenomenon to occur. Based on the foregoing, we understand and appreciate that the rainbows will be viewed relatively early in the morning or in the late afternoon (based on the angle of the sun). The beautiful rainbow will not appear without sunlight and millions of water droplets. On their own, the sun and the rain droplets cannot create the rainbow.

Rainbows will sometimes appear during stormy times. They seem to burst through the dark clouds and, for a fleeting moment, provide a calming of our spirits. The rainbows appear to provide a deep reassurance that all will be well and that there is still so much beauty even amidst the darkness. We can equate this beauty and wonder of nature to many of our life situations. There can be times in our lives when situations appear to be so dreary and threatening - finances are low, relationships are strained, and so on. However, at those times

(when we appear fearful) it seems as if, just out of the blue, a friend or relative sends a gift, or a note, or an e-mail, that just lifts our spirits and gives us reason to hope. They become that rainbow in our lives, reminding us that this is still such a beautiful world. They beckon us to keep hope alive; to rekindle our faith and confidence. We are so very grateful for those individuals who care enough to reach out and inspire us to press on; to look beyond the dark clouds and know that the sun still shines.

Sometimes we are at a vantage point where we see the dark clouds circling around a friend who, because they are so engulfed by the clouds, cannot see the rainbow. They may be going through severe depression or have been brought low by a bout of sickness or an accident. It is at times like these that we have an opportunity to be the rainbow in their cloud; providing words of encouragement or monetary support to help them through their storm.

We appear to be beautiful rainbows when we seek to be a source of help or encouragement to someone — reminding others that blessings can come through raindrops. Sometimes we do not need to be a friend or an acquaintance. The person helped can be a “perfect stranger”. An individual who may be carrying a heavy burden that we seek to lighten through an expression of concern, a smile, an email, a telephone, or a handwritten note. We can add a rainbow through their tears, and discover that, in doing so, we create rainbows in our own clouds. In so many instances, it is when we pause to give, that we appear to get so much in return.

While the getting is not our motive for giving, we appreciate that we receive tremendous personal benefits when we show acts of kindness. We will never be able to put a price on the enhanced feelings of self-worth and the knowledge that, in our own special way, we have made our corner of the world a better place to be.

This is as good a time as any, for us to accept Dr. Maya Angelou’s challenge to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud. Someone who may not look like us; who may not call God the same name that we call Him; who may not call God’s name at all.

Someone whose skin pigmentation may not be the same as ours.

Someone whose nose or lips are not shaped like ours. Someone whose hair texture is so different to our own.

But someone who, like each of us, has a right to be here. We will be tremendously blessed as we accept the challenge to be rainbows in their cloud. And we pause to show appreciation to those who have been rainbows in our cloud.

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

Calypso as sign of cultural death THE JUDGES are playing the fool. They are making a mockery of the calypso art form. We complain of calypso dying, but the truth is that real biting calypso is alive and well. What we are witnessing is a concerted attempt to murder the calypso art form.

If we are serious about Calypso, how in heaven or on earth does Fya Empress, Man Zangie and Joanna Christopher place ahead of Sulle and Patches? Listen carefully to Sulle’s two songs, listen well to Patches two songs and compare the quality of the composition, the originality of the ideas presented, the pun and satire in their rendition, and tell me if anything offered by Fya Empress, Zangie and Joanna comes close.

Calypso is more than a clear voice and good diction. Sulle’s ‘Doh help me’ is one of the best calypsos in years, and he could only come 4th! Judges please.

Calypso is being murdered when a giant like Lexi, known for classics like ‘Mister Fisherman’ and ‘Red Rats’ can’t make it out of preliminaries.

This year, Lexi dammed calypsonians for their lack of fight. In fraid to fight, he says: Loyalty crucial, it’s the main weapon Results could be Dismal without it in hand Tell me soldier boy, tell me tell me Are you ready for war To live as a veteran is dignifying To die with your boots on is an honourable thing

And no money, no honey, no trophy on the shelf I will always be simple, humble, caring and true to Iself.

Similarly, Chiwalee must be justifiably frustrated that the judges saw no merit to the fact that he drew inspiration from a giant like Nelson Mandela and the might professor.

So when Sulle is denied the monarchy, it is clear to me that the judges are guilty of making a mockery of our festivity. When Patches searchlight directed at the Christian churches fail to impress the judges, we like De Man Age know that this society needs a spectacles. The way things are going, we are prepared to bet that if CP sang Jesse Gambler today, the song that took him to the monarchy in 1998, he would have failed to make the semis.

Calypso is the voice of the people in poetry. Calypso is the rhythms and rhymes of the people. Calypso was often a gauge of the temperature of the people. Calypso may not be a predictor of the people’s mood. But most often it is a signpost for what some sections of the population are concerned about. More than anything else, calypso is protest.

Well until now. Or more correctly Tell me soldier boy, tell me tell me until recently. As society degenerates into crass materialism, the high Who are you fighting for culture of the art form began to wane We have to defend our democracy just about the same time as we go Our freedom and rights protect increasingly commercial exploiting the them strongly culture in carnival.

And the justice system must not The first body blow to the art form fall in the hands of the enemy came when soca, calypso’s forced ripe Soldier fraid to fight, dey fraid to twin was torn away from its roots and fight Dey suffering from fright, dey fraid given more care and attention. Soca was said to be what the young people to fight Azara just aiming, dey fraid to fight wanted. They gained more speed and But no trigger pulling, dey fraid to excitement. We lost rhythm, melody, bounce and message for the emptiness fight of jump and wave, rags and flags, Like Zangie and Skarpyan, dey mash up everything, tear down fraid to fight anything.

Have no ammunition, dey fraid to Machal is in love with a bottle of fight Like Shannel and Homey, dey fraid rum. Fireman had such an intoxicatingly successful rum meeting to fight that the next year he came back to Using toy guns only, dey fraid to the festival drunk again. Chiwalee fight climbed all the way to raga soca Me and Icome know paradise proclaiming I am a Rumist, we can’t fight this fight using bow while in Trinidad revellers had and arrow Dey fraid to fight, def fraid to fight absolute disregard for the state of the economy or the flames that engulfed the treasury, they, Jammin still.

Or take Rasta Man I, performer All ah We jamming still. Alcohol is extraordinaire True to Iself who is no longer the devil’s soup. Strong blocked from the finals Come out ah your shell Rasta man liquor is now the drink of choice even among our women. We have Stop hiding in dey abandoned artistry and creativity.

Come out ah yo shell rasta man Destructive nonsense is embraced, Let we see you play encouraged, celebrated, promoted and Every word I utter is not mine rewarded.

I am just a messenger…

Who remembers or cares about the message in song? The time has come I will be true to Iself The most high guiding I and no one for us to pay more attention to creativity in composition. Calypso is else much more than the ability to sing I will be true to Iself clearly. A calypso is more than song.

Just love and truth and nothing Any song is not a calypso. If our else judges don’t know this yet, something So who want to bow down and is wrong in SVG. The slow and please the judges painful destruction of calypso is a sign Or even crawl on their knees for of the times. It points to nothing less the prizes Good luck to you do what you want than the cultural death of our country. to do I morals and principles I am Send comments, criticisms & sticking to suggestions to wefirst@gmail.com

V Buy back of BOSVG is financial nonsense 12. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

THE NATIONAL COMMERCIAL Bank (NCB) was the brain-child of the late Prime Minister Robert Milton Cato. The NCB was the small business bank, and very supportive of Vincentians trying to better themselves and be entrepreneurial.

Unfortunately, Gonsalves killed the NCB in 2008, with a foolish EC$185 million bank overdraft. It was madness.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA and Leader of SVG Green Party, the alleged buy back of the NCB / Bank of St. Vincent (BOSVG), as stated in the newspapers on 7th July 2017 and on SVGBC TV news on 3rd July 2017, is nonsense.

In 2010, it is believed that 51% of the NCB was sold to St. Lucia-based Eastern

Caribbean Financial Holdings (ECFH) for about EC$42 million.

In July 2017, the ULP government said it will buy back 30% of the ECFH shares in BOSVG for about EC$32 million.

So, when the ULP government sold 51% of the NCB, it received about EC$823,529 for every 1% sold.

Now, when the ULP government is buying back 31% of the BOSVG, it is paying out about EC$1,032,258 for every 1% bought.

The difference is about EC$208,729 for every 1%.

The selling of NCB shares and the buying back of BOSVG shares is another illustration of the ULP government’s financial incompetence. They are paying

about 25.35% more for something they originally owned in the first place.

It’s no wonder the SVG economy is in a real mess, when this government chooses to throw away money on senseless financial transactions.

Imagine selling a car, then buying it back a few years later for more. Why would you pay 25.35% more for something you originally owned in the first place?

It appears as if there is no financial advantage in buying back these BOSVG shares at this huge cost, especially as the BOSVG has shown a disappointing financial performance. It is a masterstroke of financial incompetence by the SVG Minister of Finance Gonsalves, who failed the Audit of Public

Accounts for 2008, 2009 and 2010.

It is not clear how this purchase will be financed.

Therefore, we have to ask, who is Gonsalves trying to fool himself? Is the BOSVG even making a profit, or is the government buying more shares in a dead dog? The public is entitled to know these important facts.

The ULP regime has been unable to create sustainable revenue streams for the SVG Treasury. They have been hopeless in managing the country’s finances. The SVG economy has been devastated by the financial and economic incompetence of the ULP regime.

As a consequence, there’s virtually no money circulating in the country, businesses are going bust, and unemployment

and poverty are rising. Our people are suffering.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, who has a Master’s Degree in Macro Economics, Budgeting, Planning and Policy from Bradford University, England, strongly believes that the people of SVG urgently need a green economy and a financially competent government, to create a fair tax system, jobs and an export-oriented economy for sustainable development.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org https://twitter.com/svggreenp arty https://www.facebook.com/SV G-Green-Party154937087877631/

TIME FOR ACTION !!!

WE HAVE BEEN TALKING TOO LONG !!! … a case for medical marijuana suffer for lack of a trusted and proven natural medication with little or no side effects.

Scenario 3: A diplomat from a developing country, who is also a convalescent, requests from his liaison officer where he can ‘top up’ on his supply of MM while on official business here.

These are a few of several real world scenarios which will be staring us in the face shortly, if they have not done so already.

How are we as a developing nation addressing the issue? Are we going to wait until the situation arises, then hurriedly look for solutions? Are we bold and strong enough to announce that we are on board with developing nations, to Global medical marijuana sales are projected to grow from $4.7 cash in on the exciting possibilities billion in 2016 to $13.3 billion in 2020. (Source: Forbes) that exist, which will be beneficial in several ways, firstly to the SCENARIO 1: A Vincentian who served in the patients, secondly to the ganja farmers, thirdly to foreign military returns home for a visit and has a the local pharmaceutical industry and equally valid prescription for Medical Marijuana (MM), important to our regional and international image? which he received from a registered doctor in the Yes, it can be done in a structured way.

USA. He is fortunate that his luggage is not Marijuana has been demonized for too long by searched at AIA, but his stash of MM runs out, and persons who have not done enough research; by he needs to fill his prescription locally. Where in those who feed on misinformation, and by lobbyists SVG is there a pharmacy, government or private, who are paid by large pharmaceutical companies to where he can fill his prescription legally? put a negative spin on marijuana.

Scenario 2: Another Vincentian returning from Several years ago, when Vincentian doctor Canada with glaucoma problems also has a valid Albert/Andrew Lockhart delivered a lecture at the prescription and declares her medicines upon then UWI Extra Mural Center here, (that session arrival. In the absence of any legislation or was chaired by Dr. Adrian Fraser), among the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the lady’s matters raised was that from his research and also stash of MM is confiscated, and the lady has to

Medical marijuana is dispensed in a variety of forms, including tablet form. confirmed by other researchers, there was (and still is) NO clinical evidence to support that any person who uses ganja ‘alone’, was guilty of any criminal behaviour induced by the herb.

The research work of Dr. Lockhart and Jamaican doctor Manley West has resulted in the manufacture of at least three prescription drugs from the marijuana plant, including Marinol for motion sickness, Canasol for glaucoma and an inhalation medication for treating asthma and Chronic Onstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Interestingly, Israel has also come up with a marijuana-derived drug that can reverse the damage caused by strokes, if administered within three hours of the attack.

Why do we have to be the last in everything? On what are we waiting?

If we pride ourselves as being a progressive country with progressive leaders and progressive thinkers, let’s get some progressive ACTION, not tomorrow, but NOW!!!

Contributed by: Donald De Riggs

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 13.

Mas

Players takes SectionsÊ title SVG Players International Mas band took the top position in this year’s Section of the Bands competition, held at the Victoria Park, Thursday 6th July, with their presentation ‘EMP’, from their band ‘Star Date 2525: The Future is Now’.

This added to the King and Uptown Competition which the band had earlier copped at the Junior Mas competition.

Players finished ahead of BMC Amerijet Magic 103.7 Blondie Bird and Friends, whose second place was awarded to their presentation ‘Glorious’, from their band ‘It is what you see’.

Last year’s Sections of the Band champs, Metrocint High Voltage with their presentation ‘ULP’ from their band ‘Politics’, had to settle for the third position.

Coming in position number four was Xtreme 104.3 G&T Entrerprise Lynx Mas Band with its 2017 presentation, ‘Jeepers

Creepers’, following last year’s third place finish in the competition.

Twelve bands paraded on the evening of the competition with eleven being judged. Newcomers Leeward International made ‘EMP’ – Section of the year 2017 – from SVG Players International’s ‘Star Date 2525: a guest appearance with its The Future is Now. presentation ‘White Diamonds’.

‘Glorious’ Other participants in from Blondie the competition were Bird and Melbourne Artisans (5th), Friends ‘It is Owen Ralph and the What it is’ Professionals (6th), Digicel placed Nelson Bloc (7th), second.

Imagination Mas Band (8th), Tribes Mas Band (9th), Xtreme Fanatics SVG (10th) and Beautex International (11th). (DD) ‘ULP’, the section from High Voltage Production’s ‘Politics’ copped third place.

‘Jeepers Creepers’ from Lynx Mas Band’s ‘From the Movies; took 4th place.

‘Blue’ from Melbourne Artisans’ ‘What you see is what you get’ placed fifth.

14. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Mardi Gras - One for The CDC and Players

‘Contagious Soca Virus’, from 2017 Band of the Year ‘Star Date 2525: The Future is Now’, by SVG Players International.

Time Machine’, from Nelson Bloc’s ‘Imagine Dis’.

“Army of Liberation’, from High Voltage Production’s ‘This is Politics’.

‘Passion’, from Blondie Bird and Friends’ ‘It is what it is’.

IT BECAME CLEAr from the get go, that something special was in store for the 40th Anniversary Vincy Mas – June/July Festival.

First there was a reordering of the guard as far as the make-up of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) was concerned. Then came the promise by the newly installed Chairman, Ricardo Adams, that business was not going to be as usual.

Adams’ early pronouncements were supported by an air of confidence and overrunning exuberance that may just have set the appropriate tone of a special year.

And the promises of new things — shows - came to pass — even as one observer said, “They all appeared newly re-packaged, but they worked.”

And then, there was the mother of all things new: Victoria Park would no longer host the 2017 Mardi Gras Parade of Bands. That parade would now take place in Little Tokyo!!!

Little Tokyo would have to be transformed — a mammoth undertaking, given its state — if even

there was one.

But it came to pass that, with the support of the costume bands fraternity, it the change was made, and seemed to have worked well for the better part.

In what one mas man described as an atmosphere of caution, the major costume bands all made presentations, and at the end of the day, SVG Players International, with a presentation entitled ‘Star Date 2525: The Future is Now’, went down in the annals as the first band to take the Band of the Year title in a venue other than the VICTORIA park.

The victory for Players was exceptionally “sweet’ for their designer and lead builder Julian Peling Pollard, since the band he had designed when still a teenager, for Roy Ralph 40 years ago, had also taken that title that year (1977).

It was also Players’ first hold on the title since 2013, and they would have felt an extra bit of satisfaction having, in the process, relegated their arch rivals, BMC Amerijet Magic

103.7 FM Blondie Bird & Friends to band — ‘Social Media’; Owen Ralph and second place, beating them by 534 the Professionals — ‘Celebrate 40 Years points to 494.

Then and Now’; Ahdrenalin Mas Band Rounding up the top five were — ‘Revolution’, and Beautex Digicel Nelson Bloc, who had to settle International — ‘Preventative for the third position on 482 points, Measures’. with their presentation ‘Imagine Dis’; Three non-judged bands also Metrocint High Voltage Mas paraded: Oxygen — ‘Lost In Rio’, Production in fourth (480 points), Vincentian Chocolate/Hot 97.1.FM sliding two spots from their runnersParty Nation, and a presentation by up position in 2016, with their Leeward International. presentation ‘This is Politics’; and Xtreme FM 104.3 FM G&T Enterprise Lynx Mas Band (473 points) with ‘From the Movies’.

Other bands to parade at Little Tokyo for the Mardi Gras, Tuesday 11th July were: Melbourne Artisans — ‘See One See All; Tribes Mas Band — ‘Flash Back — The Journey of tribes; A section from one of the so-called non-traditional Imagination Mas bands.

V ÂTARYAÂTirumphs for the 7th time

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 15.

News

Five other mas bands offered entrants on the night: Blondie Bird and Friends — ‘It is what it is’ (496 points) from a band of similar name, and would have thought they deserved a better ‘deal’ from the judges; Digicel Nelson Bloc with ‘Zesus’

‘King Kong – The Eighth Wonder of the World – David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn – second place King of the Bands 2017.

‘The Return of RA – third place in the King of the Bands 2017. photos: ORIS ROBINSON GORDON ‘TARYA’ BOUCHER HAD EXPRESSED confidence going into this year’s King of the Bands Competition, that ‘It is what it is’ – fourth place. he felt “good” about his chances.

He was correct.

For at the end of the night of July 9th, 2017 at Victoria Park, ‘Tarya’ was adjudged King of the Bands, his seventh victory in ‘Zesus’ – fifth place his 37 years of was from Melbourne competing in that Artisans’ band ‘See One prestigious competition.

‘Tarya’s’ previous wins See All’, while ‘King Kong’ was ‘carried’ by were recorded in 1983, David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn on 1988, 1992, 1993, 2010 behalf of Lynx Mas and 2014.

His ‘King Conqueror’ — Band’s ‘production ‘From the Movies’. a combination of SVG Players representations of his six International kept previous winning costumes — amassed 543 themselves in the top tier with third place for points on the judges’ their ‘The Return of RA’ tally, way ahead of second placed ‘King Kong (507 points), from their presentation ‘Star Date — The Sighth Wonder of the World’, on 515 points. 2525: The Future is now’.

‘Tarya’s’ portrayal

(492 points) from ‘Imagine Dis’; Owen Ralph and the Professionals’ ‘Congo Man’ (476 points) from ‘King Conqueror’ portrayed by Gordon ‘Tarya’ their ‘Celebrate 40 years Boucher – King of the Bands 2017.

- Then and Now’; High Voltage Mas Production’s Tribes Mas Band’s ‘Lion Back — The Journey of King — King of the Tribes’. (KJ).

‘NDP’ (464 points) from Jungle’ (412) from ‘Flash ‘This is Politics’; and

V

16. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Digicel Temperature set ‘de ting on fire’ OVER 4,000 CARNIVAL revelers took to the streets with Digicel Temperature Tshirt band, creating a sea of red in capital city Kingstown on Carnival Monday- July 10th.

“I missed out last year and I made a promise that I must be a part of this band in 2017, and here I am! I am happy I played with Digicel Temperature, I thoroughly enjoyed myself,” expressed one excited reveler.

The T-shirt band, which is SVG’s newest, made its entry into Vincy Mas in 2016 with over 2,500 revelers; and, after just one year, has almost doubled in size with a capacity of over 4,000 this year.

Jomari Rogers, Finance Manager at Digicel SVG and president of Digicel’s internal social club, hailed the event a huge success. He said; “We want to

thank everyone - all the revelers and our partners including Xtreme FM, JuC, Hairoun and Mount Gay - for their support and for making Temperature one of the biggest carnival bands even after just one year.”

“Everyone can look forward to seeing more projects the likes of Temperature from this as we continue to evolve into being a total communications and entertainment provider, bringing our customers closer to the things they love,” Rogers added.

Temperature revelers were treated to unlimited drinks on the road from 2 pm on Carnival Monday and were entertained by a host of local and regional DJs and artists including Scratch Master, Problem Child, Grabba Finesse, Ice Kole, Ricky T, among others.

65 FLIG 65 GHT HT S FLIGHTS T GH TS AW WE WEEK EE EK K CONNECTING

St. Lucia Grenada Barbados Dominica St. Vincent

246 2 46 418-1654 418-1654 4

www.TIA2000.com TIA2000 com om m

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 17.

News

Starlift unseats Sion Hill Euphonium Symphonix once again displayed a determination that could only augur well for the future.

Starlift Steel Orchestra returns to winning ways at the Senior Panorama level after a dry run of some eight years.

Elite Steel orchestra made every effort to be competitive.

Follow Me’ by Johnny Rebel.

Defending champion FLOW competition was Elite Steel Their piece was arranged by Orchestra who, with 25 Sion Hill Euphonium had to Jamal Gibbs. members, performed ‘Come settle for the 2nd position.

(KH) Their 65 players produced a rousing rendition of Becket’s ‘Horn Fuh Dem’ that by: CARLYLE DOUGLAS and Thunda. was greeted The songs, especially ‘Dash it’, were with the usual MANY PERSONS HERE took to definite crowd pleasers as revelers vociferous exerted renewed energy whenever the applause from Social Media to ‘speculate’ that given what had transpired on the road for refrain “dash it, dash it, the police their carnival Monday and Tuesday, there coming” was blasted from the music supporters. was every likelihood that a nonsystems.

Their arranger Vincentian artiste could walk away But in the end, at the end of the was once again with the Road March title, in the year final note played on Carnival Tuesday Trinidadian of the 40th Anniversary of our evening, better sense prevailed.

Seon Gomez.

June/July carnival.

By Wednesday, the Carnival Winfresh Not since 1970 had a song from a Development Corporation announced South East non-Vincentian artiste won the Road that Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James’ Steel March here, and local soca ‘NEVER BOW’ had been adjudged Orchestra, with recording/performing artistes like Road March for Vincy Mas 2017. a 70-strong Luta and Alla G were having none of ‘Problem Child’ first won a Road it. They took to expressing their complement, March title here in 2006 with ‘Party frustration with the amount of ‘foreign Animal’, and repeated that feat in did a Marla music’ played on the road for 2009 with ‘Mad House’.

Nanton’s Delroy ‘Fireman ’Hooper’s‘ WILD arrangement of Carnival Monday and Tuesday, Pan Jam by X- especially by DJ’s from Trinidad, who and Shane ‘Hypa 4000 Husband’s had been employed by local Monday RIDDIM SECTION, trailed ‘NEVER A-Dus. They and Tuesday band organisers.

BOW’ in that order. took 3rd The ‘foreign’ songs that featured St. Vincent and the Grenadines position. with some prominence on the road for turned to designating a local song Nanton Vincy Mas 2017 included ‘Split in the Road March in 1971. Lloyd ‘Lord remains the Middle’ by St Lucian Freezy, and Hawke’ Providence had the distinct only female ‘Dash it’ by honour of winning that year with steel orchestra Grenadians ‘Sweeter than this’. arranger in Lil Natty SVG. Symphonix Steel Orchestra’s interpretation of Poorsa’s ‘Hairy Bank’ was an ambitious attempt.

Arranger Jomorro Francis and his 30 players might have felt hard done, not to have placed in the top Shertz ‘Problem Child’ three.

James took his third The other hold on the Road band in the March title.

Road March: SVG shall NEVER BOW

Defending Champions flow Sion Hill Euphonium had nothing to be ashamed about having dropped slightly behind Starlift.

Winfresh North East Steel orchestra is swiftly closing in on Starlift and Sion Hill.

STARLIFT STEEL ORCHESTRA are the 2017 Senior Panorama Champions, a fitting accomplishment in the year of their 50th Anniversary.

They defeated four other competitors during the Steel and Glitter show on Thursday 6th July, at Victoria Park.

The modest crowd that turned out was well

entertained, as all the bands gave good accounts of themselves.

Starlift’s 67 players, decked in gold uniforms in keeping with their 50th Anniversary, skillfully delivered their interpretation of Becket’s ‘Nannie Revival’, as arranged

by Trinidadian Duvonne Stewart.

V Another Neighbourhood Watch formed 18. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

THE COMMUNITIES OF Yambou, Argyle and Peruvian Vale now have another eye keeping a watch out for their safety and general welfare.

This, as some 33 persons from the three communities have come together to establish the Yambou/ Argyle/Peruvian Vale Neighbourhood Watch and Association.

The Neighbourhood Watch and Association was formally launched during a ceremony held at the Argyle Primary School on Saturday June 17th, 2017.

Those elected to serve as the organization’s inaugural Executive Committee were: Mrs Brenda Myers, President; Artis Davis, Liaison Officer/ Vice President; Modica Bascombe, Secretary; Iris Mounsey, Assistant Secretary; Cheryl Rodriguez, Treasurer/ PRO; John Daisley, Events Co-ordinator/ Cultural & Research Officer; Haniff Sutherland, Technical Advisor / Webmaster; Zone Coordinators, Lawrence Bacchus (Peruvian Vale), Nathaniel Williams (Yambou) and Jeffrey Garraway (Argyle); Floor Members, Chelsea Richards and Mary Quammie.

According to President Myers, the

Neighbourhood Watch and Association will work towards establishing “a caring community, safe streets, safe and peaceful neighbourhoods, provide education for all, enhance the attractiveness of our community and preserve its rich historical background and cultural pride.”

All of this is intended to lead to the creation of “a thriving community, development of a safe, healthy and attractive neighbourhood through collaborative planning, action and policy advocacy, and promotion of health and wellness by connecting people, ideas and resources.”

As it stands now, the area of concern for the group stretches from

Yambou, beginning at the entrance of Coconjah road, to the Bacchus’s Shop in Peruvian Vale, and then onto the Argyle main road, from the Argyle Primary School to the entrance at the Escape road, including Residents of the Yambou, Argyle and Peruvian Vale the in-roads. communities have come together to form a Full membership is Neighbourhood Watch and Association, and open to adults living elected Mrs. Brenda Myers (seated 2nd from left) to within that geographical be their first president. area. Persons residing Yambou, Argyle and Peruvian Vale outside the stipulated area can apply Neighbourhood Watch and Association for honorary membership. will work in close collaboration with As with all Neighbourhood Watch law enforcement agencies, in pursuit committees across the globe, the of fulfilling its objectives.

CARICOM Ambassadors make Orange Day appeal THE CARICOM YOUTH Ambassadors (SVG) Committee is extending an invitation to all local businesses to participate in their Orange Day — July 25 - Celebrations for the month of July, to demonstrate commitment to bringing an end to violence against women and girls.

The Ambassadors are also encouraging employees to wear orange, and businesses to adopt orange as an official colour for the day.

The 25th of each month has been designated Orange Day by the United Nations Secretary General’s UNite Campaign.

Orange, as a bright and optimistic colour, represents a

future free from violence against women and girls.

The campaign is an integral part of the efforts towards attaining Sustainable Development Goal 5 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which recognizes the need for gender equality and the empowerment of women.

This month’s theme, ‘Cyber Violence against Women and Girls’, is a timely one, given the recent passage here of Cyber Crime Act, and the Ambassadors are reminding the public that violence — and violence against women in particular — includes online harassment, public shaming to the desire to inflict physical harm (sexual assaults, murders) and psychological pressure that could lead to suicide.

While this month’s Orange Day appeal reaches out to Businesses in particular, the appeal is extended in an ongoing manner to the general public.

Eighteen complete Culinary Arts Course A MIXED GROUP OF MALES and females graduated recently from a three-month Culinary Arts Course conducted

by Alvin Jackson.

The Course, which was conducted at the Kingstown Technical Institute, included some persons with limited exposure to the Culinary Arts and some with none at all.

Jackson, though, is more than satisfied with his effort. He said, “I have seen persons who came to the class who didn’t know how to cook, but I can proudly say today that they can do it now.”

The Course Conductor was high in praise of the dedication and hard work of the participants

Graduates from the Culinary Arts Course with facilitator Alvin Jackson (right). which he said, if carried over into whatever opportunities they find for employment, “will serve them in good measure.”

All things being even, another course would be held, in response to what Jackson said is an overwhelming interest registered by many more

persons.

With the hospitality industry — especially food and drink establishments - being a vital component of the tourism product here, Jackson feels satisfied that he is making a contribution towards ensuring that that industry is well served.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 19.

News

Fanatics and Green Hill colour JÊOuvert J’OUVERT AND FANATISC and Green Hill Cultural Organisation (GHCO) dominated the 2017 J’Ouvert parade.

In the Traditional Bands segment, J’Ouvert Fanatics took the first position, with GHCO taking second and The Graduates third.

As far as the Groups were concerned, it was a straight Green Hill sweep in first and second with ‘We have the Trump’ and ‘Wuking Men’s Association’.

For the Couples, ‘Jessica gay way the whole hog’ and ‘Pot holes’ took first and second. ‘Pot Hold Pussy’ by Green Hill Cultural Organisation placed third.

J’Ouvert Fanatics took the Queen title with ‘Me ah sugar Mami’ and second spot with ‘Stone Blu vex’. Green Hill filled the third position with their version of ‘Sugar Mami’.

The King went to Fitz Hughes who presented ‘Do you know how it feels to be in Peach?’. J’Ouvert Fanatics secured the other two places with ‘Tek ah chance Eye ‘No Miss Carival’ Best Individual 2017 from Witness News’, and ‘Mas in Green Hill Community Organization. the Horse-PeeTall’.

The best individual portrayal came from the GHCO with a depiction ‘No Miss Carival’ Cassandra De Couteau with ‘Wild out D Bush’ was second, with ‘J’Ouvert Fanatics third berth with ‘Loose it.’

J’JOuvert Fanatics joint Best Traditional Band.

‘Jessica gey way D hole hog’ – a crowd favourite.

‘Nice Radio Meets Sue’.

V

20. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

What a woman!!!

Dear George, I AM WONDERING why my girlfriend is with me.

We are together for two months now and she doesn’t want to do the things a normal couple should do. She does not believe in kissing, and says sex is for only when children are needed. She does not believe in petting and holding hands in public. She believes a woman should never work outside the home and it’s the man’s job to do the heavy work around the house such as laundry, cleaning, gardening, and cooking. The cooking she says can be done once per week.

George, this is crazy, and I’m wondering why is she with me because we are on two completely different pages.

Confused Dear Confused, Stop wondering why she is with you, and start asking yourself why are you with her. As far as you have described, you two do not fit together, and if there’s no fit then you must acquit. Do not prolong the agony. If this is not what you signed up for, then get going.

George

Falling apart Dear George, MY HUSBAND and I seem to be going in two different directions.

Things were fine between us until he lost his job over a year ago. He started drinking and lately going with other women. I can understand the excuse for his drinking but not sleeping with women, whom he claims he has no feelings for other than straight sex.

Yes, we argue every day, but that’s because I’m under stress. The last thing I need is for him to be out there sleeping around, leaving me at home high and dry. Why can’t he understand I can give him what those other women are giving him?

Now, we hardly talk, and sex is completely out of the question. I don’t think he finds me attractive anymore.

When he’s out there doing his thing, there are men that come knocking

on my door. Maybe I’m being stupid not to open up and let them in.

High and dry Dear High and dry, It is more than likely that your economic situation has impacted severely on your relationship. The stress of not being able to make ends meet, and your husband not having a job, have caused some tremors and cracks in your marriage. It is not that your husband no

longer finds you attractive, but rather he is so focused on his current situation that he has lost sight of what’s really important, i.e. the reason you are together and came together.

I strongly recommend both of you see a marriage counsellor.

Your husband is trying

to create his own distractions from the problem at hand, and that in itself will create other problems.

As for the solicitors who come knocking on your door, tell them you are not buying whatever they might be selling.

George

Losing the ÂfatÊ Dear George,

Dear Regret,

FOR A LONG time now I’ve been begging my girl to go to the gym and lose some weight, so she could be healthier. She finally went and started to look real good, to the point now where she is talking about moving on with her life.

Now, the tables have turned. She no longer finds me attractive and thinks I’m too fat. I must admit that I was not going to the gym because I was not her size.

It is now rumoured that she is going out with a guy from the gym. I don’t know how true that is, but what I do know is she is doing a lot of things and going many places without me.

I should have left her the way she was and maybe things between us would have been still flowing. Silly me.

Encouraging someone to get in shape is a good thing, and you did well to do that in the case of your girlfriend. It is unfortunate for you that she has taken a different direction, but that’s life. In the end, we have to live with the consequences of the decisions that we make.

Here’s some extra advice: Consider accompaningy your girlfriend to the gym rather than sending her.

Regret

George

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20) You can make adjustments in your domestic scene this week. Prove your worth; concentrate on getting the job done and steer clear of office politics and gossip. Focus on what’s important rather than spreading yourself too thin and accomplishing little.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Your need to be in a leadership position will help you surpass any rivals you might encounter. Confusion at an emotional level will cause you to make wrong decisions concerning your personal life. Outbursts of passion may cause arguments with your mate.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) Make residential changes that will lift your spirits.

It might be time to shake a leg and do a personal makeover. Try to calm down emotionally about personal financial matters. Older family members will make demands on your time.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You should expect to have changes in your home. Take the time to do your job correctly or you may find yourself looking for a new one.

Travel will be on your mind, but you should be sure that you’ve got all your work up-to-date.

You are apt to meet someone special on your journey.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) Don’t be critical or overly opinionated with dislikes; it could cause disapproval and unwanted opposition. Children will be of major concern if you haven’t kept the lines of communication open. Keep your feelings to yourself if you want to avoid embarrassment.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. Take care of your personal needs. Sudden romantic infatuations could lead to a significant and prosperous connection. Relatives may be less than easy to deal with.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Hide your cards and learn to say no. Don’t let your emotions interfere with your efficiency. You can make major gains professionally by completing projects on time. Don’t confide in any relatives whom you know have a tendency to meddle in other people’s affairs.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Catch up on any correspondence you’ve neglected. Romance could be exciting if you are spontaneous. You will enjoy interacting with those who come from different backgrounds.

Take care of any medical problems if they’ve been troubling you.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can utilize your versa tile mind and dazzle others with your speed and accuracy. You can gain approval, get kudos, and ask for help if you put a little heart into your speech or request.

Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don’t divulge secret information. Avoid friends or acquaintances who drink too much. Make love, not war, and all will be fine. You will have extra energy; put it to good use.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You can make money if you put your mind to it.

You will be emotional about family matters.

Make changes that will enhance your appearance. Be firm when dealing with matters pertaining to your environment.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Passion is about the best way for you to relieve tension. Your ability to add a sophisticated touch will help you capture the look you’re after. Travel for business or pleasure will be enlightening. You can mix business with pleasure to get favorable results.

ACROSS 1. Peasant 5. Strikes 11. Air (prefix) 12. Surpass 13. City in NW France 14. River in E Asia 15. Flags 17. Cleaning implement 18. Goad for driving cattle 19. Scandinavian 20. Mathematics 23. Medium of exchange 24. Single entity 25. Weep 26. Exclamation of contempt 27. Persuasion 31. Remove by melting 33. Edible tuber 34. Set in layers 35. Mild oath 36. Jewish fraternity 37. Part of verb to ride

4. This present night 5. Noise 6. Rumple 7. It is 8. 33rd president of the US 9. Continent 10. Scrappy 16. Sparse fluid 19. Marine crustacean DOWN 20. Undergo 1. Speed contest mutation 2. Bring forth 21. Jackal young headed 3. Minerals deity

22. Names in Othello 23. Extinct 29. Toward the flightless mouth bird 30. Protuber25. Kid leather ance 27. Type of 32. Part of gun verb to be 28. The villain

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 21.

V

22. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Semone is Queen once again

attempt in 2015.

Carrying a stunning costume entitled ‘Beauty Morphs’ that took inspiration from the morphing of the butterfly, Semone, as usual, paraded her costume with easy and Semone Richardson – Queen of the Bands confidence.

When the 2017 – portraying ‘Beauty Morphs’ from night was Blondie Bird and Friends’ ‘It is what it is’. finsished, she had claimed SEMONE RICHARDSON remains unbeaten in her last two outings another Queen of the Bands title for Blondie Bird and in the Vincy Mas Queen of the Friends, who presented the Bands Competition. band ‘It is What it is for Vincy After a rest of one year (2016) to attend to ‘other very Mas 2017.

Defending title holder personal matters’ like the Ateshia Lockhart of Owen birth of her child, Semone Ralph and the Professionals returned in 2017 to reclaim the title of Queen of the Bands had to settle for third place with a portrayal entitled that she had won on her last

‘Pandora Box’, from the Professionals’ 2017 presentation ‘Celebrate 490 years Then and Now’.

Another multiple First Runner-up Jenilee Glasgow winner of this portraying ‘Ice Queen’ from SVG competition Players Internationals’ .Star Date 2525: Jenilee Glasgow, The Future is Now’. again representing Sabrina Richards — ‘Splash’ SVG Players International, from Xtreme FM 104.3 G&T copped second position displaying the ‘Ice Queen’ from Enterprise Lynx Mas Band’s ‘From the Movies’; Petra a band entitled ‘Star Date Pompey — ‘The Man-Eating 2525: The Future is Now’.

Plant’ from Digicel Nelson Other contestants in the Bloc’s ‘Imagine Dis’; Eucil competition were: Terika Woodley — ‘Miss Carival’ from McGuire portraying ‘PWP’ Xtreme Fanatics SVG’s ‘For from Metrocint High Voltage the Love of Carnival’. (DD) Mas Production’s ‘This is Politics’; Cheryl Hornsey‘Firefox’ from Imagination Mas Bands’s ‘Social Media’;

Second Runner-up Ateshia Lockhart displaying ‘Pandora’s Box’, the largest costume of the competition, from a band entitled ‘Celebrate 40 Years Then and Now’, produced by Owen Ralph and the Professionals.

Cheryl Hornsey – a veteran Queen of the Bands competitor portrayed ‘Firefox’ from Imagination Mas Band’s ‘Social Media’.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 23.

Chris Anderson is said to be the President and Chief Financial Officer of the Caribbean Football THE PLANNED FOOTBALL Trust Limited franchise tournament. did not come to fruition. Trust MATCH which was set (CFTL), Vincentian — Likewise, the other But it was reported Limited for this Sunday at the Michael John. He, planned matches at the in one regional media (CFTL).

Arnos Vale One Playing however, promised that Windsor Park Stadium outlet recently, that one Field, in the inaugural an official statement will in Dominica (6th July), official had indicated Additionally, there season of the Islands Cup come from the CFTL. the Andre Kamperveen that the regional was revelation that Open, will not happen.

The Arnos Vale venue Stadium in Suriname professional tournament players who appeared in This was confirmed by was to have hosted a (9th July) and the has not been sanctioned unsanctioned board member of promotional match in the Darren Sammy Stadium by either CONCACAF or tournaments are likely to the Caribbean Football regional professional in St Lucia (13th July), FIFA. be debarred from national representation.

THE VINCENTIAN has been reliably informed that the cost of the tournament has been a prohibitive factor thus far, as the anticipated VINCENTIAN KAI BENTICK had to settle for the came from Giovanna Millersponsorship has not been runner-up spot in the Males Under-17 category of Alexander, who lost to Chelsie forthcoming. the Digicel Caribbean Junior Individual Squash Samuel of Barbados, 5-11, 7-11, 6According to the Championships, which was contested in Guyana 11, in the third and fourth play business plan of the last week. offs in the Females Under-15 Islands Cup Open, the Bentick was defeated by his nemesis Kamal Miller- Alexander’s journey to annual operational Cumberbatch 7-11, 4-11, 6-11, in the title match. the semi-final saw her getting the budget shall not exceed Earlier, Bentick had beaten Daniel Islam of better of Chloe Walcott of Trinidad US$17 million per year Guyana 11-7, 11-9, 12-10, to set up the meeting and Tobago, 11-6, 5-11, 11-5, 11-6 in the first three years. with Cumberbatch. in the quarter final.

This figure was He also counted an 11-7, 11-4, 11-6 silencing of The other two Vincentian estimated to increase by Trinidad and Tobago’s Kobie khan. representatives were Jaydon US$ 8 million thereafter.

The next best effort by the Vincentian contingent Williams- Males Under-11 and Another of the Mikal Quashie - Males Under-19. proposed conditions is Williams saw off Armaan Kai Bentick that a Caribbean player Suleman of Barbados 11-2, 11-2, with his is set to earn a minimum 11-4, in the round of 16, but lost to runner-up of US$3000 per month, Trinidad and Tobago’s Seth Thong trophy. with the clubs listed to 2-11, 1-11, 2-11, in the quarter receive 20% of the —finals. players’ direct Williams was to suffer another loss in the remuneration consolation quarter- finals to Shiloh Asregado of Five franchise clubsGuyana, 8-11, 11-8, 4-11, 7-11.

Combine Islands, the And, Quashie, after beating Christain Dube of Barbados Challengers, the Cayman Islands 12-10, 9-11, 3-11, 11-9, 11-7 in the Trinbago Oilers, the round of 16, went under to Tahjia Lumley of Jamaica Ruffnecks and Jamaica 9-11, 11-9, 7-11, 5-11, in the quarter — Suriname Gladiators are finals. named among the initial Quashie was stopped by Reginald Brewster of participants.

Barbados, 9-11, 6-11, 7-11, in the consolation The St Vincent and the Grenadines team to the And, St Vincent and quarter finals.

Caribbean Junior Individual Squash the Grenadines is an The St Vincent and the Grenadines playing Championships from left: Anne Miller, Giovanna integral part of the contingent was accompanied by coach- James Miller- Alexander, Kai Bentick, Mikal Quashie, competitive aspect slated Bentick and Anne Miller- manager/chaperone.

Jaydon Williams, James Bentick. to commence 2018, with

No football flowing from Islands Cup Open Kai Bentick second in Caribbean Junior Squash Championships

Michael John, Board member of the Caribbean Football Trust Limited (CFTL), confirmed that the match scheduled for Arnos Vale, SVG, was called off. one of the conferences scheduled to be stationed here.

It is proposed that the Combine Islands, Jamaica Ruffnecks, Haiti Pioneers and Barbados Challengers will have St Vincent and the Grenadines as their based conference, with Trinbago Oilers, French Connections, Brazil Sambamen and Suriname Gladiators in the Suriname conference.

Unveiled in April of this year in Barbados, the Islands Cup Open has netted the likes of Clarence Seedorf, Russell Latapy, John Barnes, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo and Florent Malouda to carry out duties as coaches, assistant coaches and marquee managers or players.

The Islands Cup Open was conceptualised by Chris Anderson, who is the Chief Executive Officer of CFTL, a Barbados registered company with offices in Orlando, Florida and Toronto.

Scotiabank reaffirms support for Kiddy Cricket THE NEW COUNTRY MANAGER of Scotiabank here was in high praise of the young cricketers involved in the finals the Kiddy Cricket Festival which took place two weeks ago the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex.

Ms. Pamela Herbert-Daniel expressed the belief that those involved in the finals “exemplified the greatest of skill and talent.”

The Manager was speaking at the closing ceremony of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines finals of the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket Festival/Programme, which is held across Scotiabank’s Caribbean markets.

She urged the participants “to continue giving of your best and based on the incredible ability which was displayed, I would have to say that the future of Caribbean cricket certainly

looks bright and promising.”

Ms. Herbert-Daniel also took “great pleasure,” in reaffirming Scotiabank’s “commitment to the cricketing discipline,” and explained that for the past 17 years, her bank has been “proudly supporting the Kiddy Cricket programme and being the Official Bank of West Indies Cricket; this makes us the longest-standing current sponsor of West Indies cricket at any level.”

She further stressed, “The Kiddy Cricket Festival and our overall regional support of cricket allows us to contribute tangibly to the development of Caribbean’s premier sport. Over the years, over 700,000 students in primary schools across the West Indies have learned the fundamentals of the game through the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket programme; this is an

achievement of which we have the greatest pride.”

According to Ms. Herbert-Daniel, “The Kiddy Cricket Festival itself is unique in that it packages the core elements of the game in a fun and engaging format, teaching skill and discipline while still allowing our young players to experience the sport at a competitive level.”

She appealed to all stakeholders, “to embrace this initiative; let us continue to submit and remain open to ideas that will develop the sport at the junior level and reignite that hunger for the game so that it is not seen as only a hobby but a way of life for Caribbean people.”

Several participants in the Scotabank Kiddy Cricket Programme have gone on to represent their national teams and even the West

Indies teams.

Among these, Ms. HerbertDaniel said are Sunil Ambris (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), Kemar Roach, Kraigg Brathwaite (Barbados), Andre Fletcher (Grenada), Darren Bravo (Trinidad and Tobago) and Jermaine Blackwood (Jamaica).

I.B.A.ALLEN

Ms. Pamela Herbert-Daniel, Country Manager of Scotiabank SVG, addressing the closing ceremony of this year’s Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket Festival.

V

24. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

The Williamses are doing it for SVG

Natifah Roxanne Williams ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will have two persons officiating at the sixth staging of the Commonwealth

Youth Games (CYG), set for the Bahamas 18th to 23rd July.

Woodrow ‘Keylee’ Williams, an International Technical Official, and namesake Natifah Roxanne Williams, a White Badge, will perform duties in Athletics and Tennis, respectively.

For both, it is the first time selected as officials for the CYG. The two, though, have racked up a host of subregional and regional outings.

In the case of Woodrow, he has performed technical/official duties at several Junior Carifta Games, the NACAC Senior Championships, and recently officiated at the NACAC Age group Championships and the Trinidad and Tobago National Open Championships.

In the case of Natifah, she has performed Tennis umpiring duties at several International Tennis Federation Junior tournaments and the Davis Cup. Buoyed by being chosen, and promising to do her best, Natifah commented, “It will be a good experience to officiate these games.”

Athletics, Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, Cycling, Judo, Rugby Sevens, Swimming and Tennis are the disciplines contested over the five days of the CYG. Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball and Judo will be first timers at the games, which are geared for participants of both genders

between the age of 14 and 18 years.

St Vincent and the Grenadines will compete in Athletics and Swimming. The Vincentian representatives selected are Darria Matthias, Javon Rawlins and Zita Vincent (Athletics), and Shane Cadogan, Shne Joachim and Nikolas Sylvester (Swimming).

It is the first time in more than five decades that the Caribbean has been host to a Commonwealth Games event.

Woodrow “Keylee” Williams Jamaica hosted the Commonwealth Games in constraints and the lack of 1966. readiness of the George Odlum The 2017 CYG was Stadium in Vieux Fort. originally set to be staged in The first CYG was staged in St Lucia; however, that Edinburg, Scotland, 10th to country cited financial 14th August, 2000.

SVG surrenders WIFA Senior Men’s Football title Grenadines, Cunningham scored in the 2-2. Dennis Prescott and Zenroy Lee TOP GOAL SCORER — Myron Samuel, 39th minutes; Jahvin Sutherland — scored for SVG, with Briel Thomas and could not prevent St Vincent and the 63rd and Myron Samuel — 88th.

Julian Wade for Dominica.

Grenadines handing over the Windward A 4-2 win over Barbados served to St Vincent and the Grenadines, Islands Football Association (WIFA) break an eleven match losing streak for though, retained the Golden Boots Senior Men’s Football Tournament title the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior award, as Myron Samuel’s four goals to Grenada.

Men’s outfit, and saved face in the were the most in the tournament.

When the 2017 edition ended last tournament.

Samuel was also the Golden Boots Thursday at the Kirani James Athletics A hat trick by Samuel (47th, 55th and winner in the 2015 edition.

Stadium in Grenada, it was the hosts 90th minutes) and a strike by Sharing the spotlight with Samuel at who were installed as the new Cunningham in the 12th, accounted for last Thursday’s closing ceremony were champions.

The Vincentians, who had won the last the Vincentians’ tally, while Mario Harte Glenson Prince of Dominica who got the and Hadan Halligan scored for Barbados. Golden Glove award for best goalkeeper, tournament in 2015, held in St Lucia, And, in their last match, St Vincent and Nicko Williams of Grenada, who was finished behind Grenada (7 points), Myron Samuel and the Grenadines and Dominica drew voted MVP of the tournament.

Dominica ( 6 points) and St Lucia (5 points), only bettering guest team — Barbados (4 points).

From their four matches, St Vincent and the Jordan and McCoy Grenadines registered one now join Sunil Ambris, win, one draw and had two the most recent losses, to end on 4 points, Vincentian to get called the same as Barbados, but on to the West Indies with a superior goal team, and who is tipped difference. to take over as Captain The Vincentians’ tale saw from Liam Sebastein, them losing 1-2 to St Lucia. and fast bowler Delorn Danny Mullarkey Johnson to complete the (74th minute) and Kurt complement of four Frederick (79th minute) Vincentians. netted for St Lucia. Chavel The squad reads:, Cunningham registered Devon Smith, Tyron SVG’s consolation item in Theophile, Andre the 88th minute.

Sunil Ambris, middle RayJordan, right arm Obed McCoy, left arm Delorn Johnson, left Fletcher, Sunil Ambris, St Vincent and the order batsman fast bowler fast bowler arm fast bowler Shane Shillingford, Grenadines suffered a WHEN THE CRICKET Delorn Johnsin, and Obed McCoy. Also making second defeat at the feet of West Indies Professional Cricket League Shermon Lewis, Audy Alexander, Obed their debut is St Lucia’s left arm spinner Grenada, losing 3-4.

(PCL) draft was held on Friday, July 7th McCoy and Kyle Mayers as the Audy Alexander and middle order Grenada’s goals came in in Jamaica, five new face appeared, prospective ten players. Kirk Edwards, batsman Roland Cato. from Nicko Williams — including two Vincentians, in the West Indies middle order batsman Kirk Ray Jordan, Liam Sebastein, Tarryck 14th minute; Saydrel Lewis Windward Volcanoes as the Franchise Gabriel, Roland Cato to complete the 15Edwards will have his second stint as an — 32nd and 54th minutes Contracted Players for the 2017/2018 PCL overseas player, and will join his fellow member list of contracted players. and Rickson Phillip — 56th season, which begins in mid October.

Barbadian all-rounder Kyle Mayers, who minute.

The new faces included are West Indies is in his third year with the Volcanoes as I.B.A.ALLEN For St Vincent and the former Under 19 fast bowlers Ray Jordan an overseas players.

Four Vincies in Windwards Volcanoes Setup

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 25.

Sports

Kick with Pete STUDENTS have an opportunity to make valuable use of their vacation. There is a Soccer Training Camp at the Arnos Vale Playing Field August 14 to 25. One of the instructors will be Pete Morris. He is based in the USA, but has never lost his love for and attachment to football in his homeland - St. Vincent and the Grenadines out of him.

Pete came through the ranks and lives up to a trend that his home town Layou has established.

In addition to providing many of this country’s intellectual and entrepreneurial giants, Layou is home to many musical stalwarts. There are others in various sports and disciplines.

Football has captured the Town’s imagination, and there is something of an affinity with the game as far as Layou is concerned. Check the number of players who have made it to the national level, starting from youth.

Pete Morris had enough influence that a core of national players evolved around him. It started at home. His brothers Luxi and Des, between whom he was sandwiched, set the foundation for a brotherly affair.

The Morrises were supported by the Lowes: Raulty and Guy, and there were the Millingtons: Sheen and Mory. Virtually three families contributed to a plank of Vincentian football.

It was that generation that keeps Vincentian football strong. They did not come from out of the blue. The template was put down by the classes of the late 50s and sixties. The name Notre Dame must be mentioned when labelling the roots of national heritage.

Pete had his symbols to admire, and with other ball doctors like the late Keith ‘Slick’ Bonadie, ‘Spot I,’ Earl ‘Maz- I’ Alexander Ashely ‘Hammers’ Baptiste, Marcus Young, Tyrone ‘Tweety’ Spence, Verbin Sutherland, Sebastian ‘Coe’ King, Vincentian football maintained its ranks.

There is no question as to Pete’s commitment to the game, hence the reason why he labours in the coaching arena to sustain that standard of national pride.

His mission in August is an ongoing quest to ensure that the next generation is equipped to deal with the game in the modern fashion.

Pete has been playing his role in uncovering many of this country’s natural gems. Tevin Slater is one of Pete’s crop, and once things work out, Pete is dedicated to finding the right environment designed to sharpen Slater’s prowess. Others like Kyle Edwards and Lemus Christopher have benefitted from Pete’s interference.

Pete is a student of the game, and he is convinced that this country has the ability and the credibility to make representation on the world scale.

He is worried that the youngsters are not getting the orientation necessary for today’s engagements.

He identifies the need to change the culture that he confesses exists. St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ football is tapering. Not that there is an absence of quality. We are inclined to stand still while other countries are rising.

What is responsible for the approach is concern, and Pete is keen on ensuring that our name is respected.

Pete needs support and encouragement.

Parents, schools, clubs and those of the fraternity who love the sport ought to be in solidarity.

Fathers and sons played in cricket competition THE FATHER and son pairings of Olanzo Jackson and Rhondy Joseph as well as William ‘Bill’ Edwards and Jarrell Edwards, are combining in the St Vincent and the Grenadines Inc. National Cricket competitions.

Jackson and Joseph play for Team Rivals in the Premier League, while the Edwards duo appear for Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors in the First Division Sunday League.

Jackson views the opportunity to share the field with his offspring, as “.. a great honour,” adding, “I am happy to play alongside him to guide him in his early development as a young cricketer.”

The two have a few things in common, not least being that they are both spinners and good fielders.

“When I look at him in training, he reminds me of myself“, Jackson said of his son.

According to Jackson: “Team Rivals has a lot of confidence in him, but sometimes I get scared of him getting hurt because he is playing at the senior level.”

Jackson said that he will do all in his power to assist his son, as he is looking forward to see him make it up the ladder, to the highest rung.

Meanwhile, the two Edwards share the same feeling of being in the same team.

But it is the elder Edwards who expressed greater elation.

“It is something that I always wished for… I have been coaching him for a while now and am

Rhondy Joseph (left) and Olanzo Jackson.

Jarrell (left) and William “Bill” Edwards.

and the Grenadines players.

Jackson went on to represent the Windwards in the regional fournurturing him in the game,” Bill day tournament. confirmed.

Edwards, on the other hand, Concurring that they spend a played for St Vincent and the lot of time watching and talking Grenadines and Windwards at the cricket, the elder Edwards said he Under-19 level, while Jackson can will assist wherever he can to see be considered a late developer in his son make it as far as possible. the sport.

The senior Edwards is the Too, Jackson has served as leading batsman in the First National Under-19 and Senior St Division, with the most runs thus Vincent and the Grenadines far. coach, while Edwards is part of He relished his century the St Vincent and the (144) made against Prime Grenadines Senior selection Consulting Marriaqua last March panel. at the Stubbs Playing Field, but Most recently, Kenrick and more so relished that his son was Roger Davis served as umpires in at the crease with him during his the same match; Walford Ambris innings, and recalled and son Sunil Ambris played getting “advice” from him. together for Saints; Dawnley Joseph and the younger Joseph and son Dawnley Grant Edwards were part of the St turned out for Spartans, and Isaac Vincent and the Grenadines and Jerremy Haywood did the Under-15 team that contested this same for Marriaqua. year’s Winlott Inc. U-15 The Davises went on to also competition in Grenada, earlier umpire together in a regional first this year. class cricket match.

Like the sons, the fathers too THE VINCENTIAN applauds have some common ground. this living example of ‘following in Jackson and the older Edwards the footsteps of our fathers. are both former senior St Vincent

BESCO-Pastures to give ÂChickenÊ posthumous honour FALLEN national footballer Roy ‘Chicken’ Richards is to be honoured posthumously by his club BESCO-Pastures.

So says head of the club, Raymond Trimmingham.

Richards, a painter by occupation, along with shopkeeper Daniel Hepburn, were shot and killed last Saturday night in an area known as Bamboo Square, in the Central Leeward town of Barrouallie.

Despite being shaken by the tragic loss of Richards, Trimmingham said that plans are already in place to remember him.

Trimmingham noted that the management of the club had been in discussion prior to Richards’ death “to do something” for one of the early pioneers of the club — Fred Trimmingham, who died last year.

“We now have to honour both Fred and ‘Chicken’… We are not sure how the honour will be done, but whatever is done, it will be something that is permanent in their remembrance,” he said with a loud sigh.

Trimmingham also revealed the two remaining matches that BESCO- Pastures have in the premier division will be dedicated to Richards.

At present BESCO- Pastures is in second place on 20 points, one

fewer than Avenues United. Both teams, like the other ten, have two matches in hand.

Raymond Trimmingham

Remembering ‘Chicken’ Trimmingham described as “..a person who anyone would gravitate to… He had an inviting personality… He was someone you can always hold a conversation… He was never ruffled.”

Remembering the defender’s input to the BESCO — Pastures team, Trimmingham said: “He is irreplaceable; he was one who would always give one hundred percent and will pull up .. others in the team who were slacking…

In fact, he inspired the others to give of their best… Our team will not be the same without ‘Chicken’.”

Trimmingham recalled seeing Richards play in the Barrouallie Football League around 2004/2005 and immediately recognising his ability. He was drafted into the Pastures set up soon after, gained his first call up to national duty in 2008, and became a fixture at that level.

In fact, Richards’ knowledge of the game and the respect he gained from team mates, saw him being elevated to captaincy of Vincy Heat (Senior SVG Men’s

Football team), during the last World Cup qualifiers. Roy ‘Chicken’ Additionally, Richards’ ability was Richards sought by Barbadian Premier Division Club Rendezvous, which he represented as recent as last May. Recognising that he was nearing the end of his best years in the sport, Trimmingham revealed that a recent conversation with Richards, he had already begun to address how he could share his expertise in grooming the young defenders in the BESCO-Pastures team.

Richards last played for BESCO-Pastures on 24th June versus Greiggs, at the Chili Playing Field in the National Club championships.

Apart from active football duty with BESCO-Pastures, Rendezvous, the Senior National team, Keartons United, Emerald Stars and the Barrouallie League team, Richards was also an ardent softball cricketer, representing Surprizers in the Barrouallie competition.

V

26. FRIDAY, JULY 07, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Classifieds

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 14, 2017. 27.

Classifieds

LAND/PROPERTY FOR SALE

5 minutes from the AIA Mountain and Sea view 25,000 sq. ft. excellent investment Tel: 533-1623

REPAIRS Washing machine and microwave repairs.

HOME SERVICES 455-5018

¾ One three (3) bedroom two o (2) bathroom house at Arnos s V ale for EC$420,000 (NEGOTIABLE).

(NEGOTIABLE) .

Vale ¾ BANK FORECLOSURE PROPERTY PROPERTY:: One two (2) storey six (6) bedroom four (4) bathroom house at Green Hill for EC$527,000 (OPEN TO OFFERS) OFFERS).. ¾ BANK FORECLOSURE PROPERTY PROPERTY:: One three (3) bedroom house located at Calder for EC$380,000 (OPEN TO OFFERS) OFFERS).. ¾ Government lands at Bequia from EC $11.34 / US $4.20 per sq ft ft.. ¾ 31,195 sq ft of land at Pilgrim Hill, Gomea for EC$100,000. ¾ Lands at Prospect Estate from EC$15 per sq ft ft..

W ebsite: h ttps://www.sutherlandsrealestate.com Website: https://www.sutherlandsrealestate.com sutherlandsrealestate@gmail.com E-mail: sutherlandsrealestate@gmail.com Tel: e 1-784-498-1924 1-784-498-1 / 433-9362 Tel:

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

JULY 14, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.28

www.thevincentian.com

POLICEMAN CHARGED WITH POST OFFICE BURGLARY with the burglary.

He was remanded following strong HOURS AFTER the St Vincent and the objections to bail by Senior Prosecutor Grenadines Postal Corporation was Adolphus Delplesche. reportedly burglarized in the early The 31-year-old resident of Glen has morning hours of Friday, July 7, police been charged with entering the SVG arrested and charged one of their Postal Corporation and stealing colleagues in connection with the EC$75,000 in cash, the property of the incident.

Postal Corporation. He is also accused Constable 196 Ettian Charles, a of conspiring with another person to member of the Royal St Vincent and burglarize the postal facility. the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) The accused was not required to for the past 11 years and seven plead to the indictable charges when months, currently attached to beat and he appeared before Chief Magistrate patrol, was Rechanne Browne on Wednesday. He taken before was represented by attorney Carlos the Serious James.

Offences Court on Wednesday Objection to bail after being charged In objecting to bail, the Senior Sunday 9th Prosecutor told the court that the July, on two investigations are at a delicate stage. counts in He pointed out that the connection investigators are still looking for some exhibits, and there are other persons who are of interest to those Senior investigations.

Prosecutor Delplesche expressed the view that, Adolphus should the accused be granted bail, Delplesche those investigations would be made a hindered. strong and The Senior Prosecutor added that successful there was also the possibility of argument another charge being brought. against the He asked the court to remand the granting of accused for seven days in the first bail.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

A.I. REAL ESTATE Argyle 20,861 sq. ft. @$15.00 p.s.f - $312,915.00 - BB119 Cane Grove 3 bedrom Property on 6,514 sq. ft. - CALL H102 Calder 7,988 sq. ft. @ $12.50 p.s.f. - $99,850.00 - BB203 Calder building lots various sizes - Open to offers BB212 - BB214 (784)- 457-2087 office (784)-533-0431 whatsapp (784)-493-9431 cell (718)-807-4376 office donp@vincysurf.com www.aisvg.com facebook.com/airealestatesvg

EC$1.50

Constable 196 Ettian Charles comfortably seated in a police transport which took him away to be remanded.

instance, following which the possibility of him being granted bail would be reviewed.

He stressed that the main investigator Corporal Biorn Duncan was a very competent officer, and expressed confidence Attorney Carlos James (right) keeps a close eye on his that the client as he is directed to a police transport. investigations would be conducted expeditiously.

The Chief Magistrate took into account the factors raised by both Application for bail sides, but, given the serious nature of the charges, she opted to remand James, in his application for bail, Charles for seven days in the first recognized the serious nature of the charges, but in relation to Delplesche’s instance.

He is expected to return to court on view that his client would hinder the July 19 for bail review. investigations, the lawyer suggested James requested that his client be that bail could be granted with strict remanded at a safe place, to which conditions, including surrendering Delplesche responded that he had travel documents and reporting every confidence in Corporal Duncan, conditions.

James argued that the accused is a a view also expressed by PC Charles’ legal counsel. police officer and was at the Central Chief Magistrate Browne then Police Station on the date and time the intervened, saying that the police incident was said to have occurred.

He added that his client takes care would decide where Charles would be kept. of his visually impaired father, and The accused officer has been highlighted the fact that a person is suspended on half month’s pay innocent until proven guilty. pending the outcome of the matter.

Magistrate rules

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.