THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 15-10-19

FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 15, 2019

VOLUME 113, No.42.

www.thevincentian.com

Rastafari comes to College Page 2

The Questelles Government School is the latest school on record to report a RAT infestation problem.

LIAT doomed Page 3

EC$1.50

Nurses drama reviewed Page 14

NOT FOR THE FIRST TIME, classes at a school here have been interrupted because of a ‘RAT PROBLEM’.

The latest school to be so affected was the Questelles Government School where, last Wednesday, the principal gave students a letter addressed to their parents, in which she said that students should not return for classes until Monday (of this week).

The letter followed after the Ministry of Education said it was informed of a RAT problem by the management of the Questelles Government School.

The best lecturer Page 9

Cafè Soleil not sunny Page 28

The letter, though, gave no reason for the suspension of classes.

Parents discerned later that the extraordinary action by the principal was occasioned by a “RAT PROBLEM” that had reached a point of RATS ignoring all and sundry, and making their way into classrooms and other sections of the school compound, leaving droppings along their way. The school is comprised of a number of separate buildings.

It is understood that members of the Environmental Health Unit (EHU) visited the school on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th November to assess the problem and recommend remedial action.

Whatever was done on the advice of the EHU, when students, many accompanied by their parents, turned up at the school on Monday, they were notified that the Ministry of Education had ordered, as a precautionary measure, that classes be suspended for that day (Monday) but to be resumed on Tuesday.

According to an official release received earlier this week, the Building Roads and General Services Authority (BRAGSA) and the Public Health Department “are collaborating and working assiduously to fully remedy the situation” THE VINCENTIAN understands that Executive Members of the Teachers Union, including President Wendy Bynoe, visited the school last Monday.

The Union’s delegation, according to a teacher, held discussions with the teachers and an education official.

When during those discussions it was revealed that a RAT nest (breeding Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Heritage

Rastafari comes to College

For about two hours Monday afternoon, the students were held in rapt attention by the trio of presenters.

The Empress and the Ambassador interchanged presentations but there was a common chord of black consciousness that characterised their presentations.

Ambassador Winston outlined to the audience the meaning of the Ras Tafari as Ras: ‘Head,’ Ambassador Jah Winston (right) and Empress and Tafari ‘Creator.’

Danka shared the podium, ensuring though that From the Bobo Shanti they maintained a common chord which order, distinguished by impressed their audience. their fully covered attire and head covered with a STUDENTS OF THE in highlighting the turban, Ambassador COMMUNITY STUDIES and usefulness of the lecture, Winston condemned the Sociology Classes of the noted that the “culture of extent of cursing that St. Vincent and the St. Vincent and the pervades today’s society.

Grenadines Community Grenadines has “Stop and think before College were last Monday, treasures within the life you curse. Make sure involved in a and people itself. We your words are right,” he lecture/discussion session wanted an opportunity to asserted. led by a family meet some of these He expressed combination representing people.” solidarity with the Ethiopia Africa Black The students were Christian Coalition SVG International Congress, treated to a range of on their plans to stage and Women’s Freedom issues deliberated on by the march/rally against Liberation League.

Ambassador Jah certain social ills, Lecturer at the Winston, Empress Danka including homosexuality, College Wendell Walters, and Princess Denika.

against which Ambassador Winston echoed his “strong stance.”

Ambassador Winston also impressed his disgust with the extent of alcoholic consumption he sees taking place.

“Almost the whole of Vincy population turn drunkards,” he observed.

“You have to take life serious,” he told his audience, and informed them that the “Bible is a Black book.”

And he pointed to the matter of climate change, and suggested that with the ongoing melt down as far as the glaciers are concerned, “every house has to have a ship.”

The interaction between students and presenters was an energised one, and when asked as to what obstacles he faced on life’s route, Ambassador Winston intimated to having received death threats because of his adherence to Rastafari.

“It not an easy road,” Winston quipped and

The students, throughout the presentations, showed appreciation of the information and interpretations shared by the presenters. asserted, “I come and change over everything.”

Perhaps wanting to leave some food for thought with the students, Ambassador Winston postulated that “No man can get judge dead. You have to be judged when you are living.”

He encouraged the youngsters to make use of the opportunity to embrace education.

It was clear that the

Rastafari trio revelled in the opportunity to share their experience with the students. Ambassador Winston praised the Community College for providing the platform on which he was able to point out some aspects of Black history.

One can expect to see more of the Rastafari family as they embark on a nation-wide tour starting February 2020.

(WKA)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 3.

News 3

Bilateral relations needed

DESPITE THE GEOGRAPHICAL DIFFERENCES, the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean share common problems. So says the non-resident Ambassador of Chile to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, H.E Juan Anibal Barria.

This, therefore, according to the Ambassador, called for closer bilateral relations between both sets of states.

“We have a peculiar identity, but even with the differences in population, we share common problems,” H.E Barria told THE

VINCENTIAN, during a recent visit to the state.

Chilean Ambassador to SVG, H. E. Juan Anibal Barria wants to see greater communication and cooperation between Latin America and the Caribbean.

Climate Change

countries making up Latin America and the Caribbean, to sit and The issue of climate discuss…. Matters change, he said, “is one respecting the of those issues which needed to be addressed.” peculiarities of each country.

The United Nations “We need to exchange Framework Convention views on how we are to on Climate Change face these new (UNFCCC) annual challenges that affect our Climate Change He noted the economies, societies and Convention, originally investment this country people,” he said. scheduled to be held in has made in geo-thermal, Chile, is now expected to saying that both held from December 2 to Renewable Energy countries could further the 13 in Spain. explore other sources of There was also need And looking ahead to renewable energy. for cooperation in the this Conference, the “I think this is a good Chilean Ambassador said area of renewable that it was necessary for energy, H.E Barria said. area for technical cooperation. So, we can

PM Mottley: LIAT doomed PM Browne: I’m investing BARBADOS PRIME MINISTER, Mia Mottley might have opined, according to a Barbados Today report, that regional airline LIAT “is doomed,” but that has not deterred Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne from going ahead with another hefty injection of cash in the fledging, cash-strapped airline.

Mottley, as per the Barbados Today report, had said in plain English that if the success of the 63-year-old was left in the hands of the shareholder governments alone, LIAT was doomed.

She, however, called for a united front to address the future of the airline and the need for a minimum revenue guarantee policy to be implemented at LIAT, which continues to face challenges occasioned by the upgrading of its fleet, control costs and a huge payroll.

Following an earlier indication that Barbados was prepared to rid itself of most if not all of its 49% shares in LIAT, Antigua and Barbuda indicated an early interest in purchasing those shares.

The advanced price of US$40 million proved

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne (left) and Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro held brief talks after Browne had secured a loan from the Alba Bank. (Photo Credit: kyssonline) unacceptable to Antigua and Barbuda, and talks between the two countries came to a halt.

There have been no resumptions of those talks, but in the interim, Prime Minister Browne has sourced some EC$40 million which he said he is prepared to inject into LIAT. In relation to the investment, Browne said, according to the Antigua Observer Online Service, “We, obviously, will have further discussions, but the idea that we will purchase Barbados’ shares, that is no longer on the table. We have taken the decision, instead of buying

Barbados’ shares, that we will invest directly in LIAT – subject to the approval of the other shareholder governments – and I don’t see why they should stop us from investing directly in LIAT; LIAT needs the cash.”

According to Browne, he has already informed Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, that his government has obtained funds that it intends to use to inject directly into LIAT. Reports from Antigua said that PM Browne left Antigua and Barbuda on November 5 on a visit to Venezuela. During the visit, Antigua and

do more things with the Caribbean regarding these matters”, the Ambassador proffered, and he noted that technical cooperation has been at the core of relations between St Vincent and the Grenadines and his country.

Tourism and Trade

travel, such as the Caribbean,” H.E Barria told THE VINCENTIAN. The Ambassador also addressed the opportunity for trade between the two regions.

“I have heard of the very good Vincentian chocolate, but do not see Vincentian chocolate in supermarkets; it is relevant to promote more products in Latin America,” he said.

The Ambassador took the opportunity to congratulate SVG on its being voted to a NonPermanent seat on the UN Security Council. He viewed the accomplishment as putting St. Vincent and the Grenadines in a position of advantage, to push for closer ties between countries of Latin America and the Caribbean region.

Ms. Desiree Richards, Managing Director of the Metrocint Group of Companies and the Vincentian Publishing Co., is the Honorary Counsel of Chile in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. (DD)

The learning of Spanish, for example, was relevant to fruitful trade and exchnages between the two countries.

This, H.E. Barria said, has to be at the base of a change in attitude with respect to tourism.

He observed that Barbados Prime Minister people in the Caribbean Mia Mottle does not hold region, for historical out much hope for LIAT if reasons, looked to it remains in the hands of countries in the North as its current shareholder their primary markets governments. (Photo for tourism.

Credit: cbc.bb) “But at the same time, you are close to the Barbuda was formally South, and even with our inducted into ALBA ups and downs, we have Bank as a new member, a new middle class with and proceeded better salaries and those immediately thereafter, wanting to experience to ink the Financing new customs, and they Agreement relating to have a taste for exotic the loan of US$15.8 (EC40) million for injection into LIAT. Speculation is rife that PM Browne will be looking to call the shots once his $40 million injection gets approval.

Observers across the Continued from Front Page. region are well aware ground) was discovered in a nearby building, the that Antigua stands to teachers informed their representatives that they lose the most should were not prepared to re-enter their classroom until LIAT go under. For assurance was given that the RAT problem was example, of an estimated tackled at its source (nest) and eradicated, and the workforce of 900 persons entire school sanitized thereafter. across the region, the It seemed that Management of the School and vast majority of those are the Leadership of the Teachers Union were able to employed in Antigua. work towards avoiding any further disruption to All in all, LIAT classes. remains a ‘hard sell’ on The report is that classes were beginning to the CARICOM leaders’ return to normalcy by Thursday, though one market. (Sources: teacher is reported to have commented that if Barbados Today, Antigua something is not done to address the RAT problem Observer, Antigua News in the area surrounding the school, and in the Room) wider community, the problem could easily return.

Another Rat problem

V A case of mistaken identity?

4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

‘Soups’ denied bail on shooting charge

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

THIRTY-FOURYEAR-OLD Lejah ‘Soups” Alexander extradition request for the men. returns to the Connell filed applications for Serious Offences bail on behalf of both men on Court today for bail Friday, November 8. review, on the Sworn affidavits were also filed, attempted murder in which the men showed that charge stemming they were in St. Vincent at the from last week time the robbery was alleged to Tuesday’s daylight have occurred, and could not have shooting at Lower been in Carriacou.

Middle Street, The bail applications were Kingstown. heard at the Serious Offences The Glen/Brighton Lejah ‘Soups” Alexander Court on Monday, and the Chief resident has been Magistrate indicated that she saw charged with the and read the bail applications, as attempted murder of Lionel George of Rockies, who well as the affidavits. was shot several times around 9 am, reportedly as Senior Prosecutor Adolphus he and his girlfriend were about to set up to begin Delpleche made no objection to the day’s operation of a clothing business they have bail, and Browne granted bail in been plying in that area for some time. the sum of $3,000 each with one Alexander was not required to plead to the surety, with supporting indictable charge when he appeared before Chief conditions. They were also ordered Magistrate Rechanne Browne, at the Serious to surrender their travel Offences Court on Friday, November 8. documents, and stop notices will Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche objected to be placed at all ports of entry and bail, stating that George was warded at the exit.

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Milton Cato Speaking with THE Memorial Hospital, nursing a gunshot wound to his Anlee Parsons and Hyah Browne VINCENTIAN shortly after bail head, and was being monitored closely by doctors. was granted, Connell said, “This The prosecutor asked that George be remanded TWO VINCENTIAN YOUTH suspected office in Carriacou, on October 11, case is a case for grave concern. at that stage, pending a prognosis on the victim. which netted $26,208. to be involved in a recent armed The content of the affidavits filed The Chief Magistrate upheld the prosecutor’s The men were taken before the on behalf of the applicants, is in robbery at Carriacou, Grenada, were suspect as armed and dangerous.

Serious Offences Court on October each granted bail at the Serious variance with the findings of the 30, and the prosecution made a Offences Court on Monday, one Grenadian week after being denied bail by the formal application for warrants of Authorities; but arrest to be issued for the men to with greatest same court. be detained, before they were able respect, I think The dramatic turn came, following what appeared to be an to leave the jurisdiction. this case is a Attorney Grant Connell, unexpected return to that Court manifestation appearing on behalf of the men, on Tuesday, of Hyah Browne, an that the police told the court that he did not have forces in the employee of the Central Water a copy of the application, and and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) THE MUCH ANTICIPATED a course of conduct shall be respective requested disclosure. and Anlee Parsons, a labourer. islands are still HEARING of the matter involving pursued, which if the agreement The application was however Local police had detained the Prison Officer Louis Cupid, was carried out in accordance stuck in the heard in court, and granted, and two, both of Carriere, on October charged in connection with the with intent, will amount to the colonial era. I the men were remanded until 25, in connection with a report of recent escape of murder accused commission of the offence of hope they will December 10, by which time the robbery at the Grenada Union of Veron Primus from Her Majesty’s escaping lawful custody. do their jobs.”

Grenadian Authorities are Teacher’s (GUT) Credit Union Prisons, Kingstown, has been Cupid, who is out on $15,000 expected to submit a formal adjourned to January 6. bail with one surety, and is When the matter was called at represented by Attorney Grant the Serious Offences Court on Connell, has maintained his Monday, Senior Prosecutor innocence on both charges.

Adolphus Delpleche informed the Primus, a Vermont man in his Court that the lead investigator early thirties, who is awaiting Inspector Elgin Richards informed trial for the November 2015 him that the case file was passed stabbing death of 36-year-old Real to a senior police officer for Estate Agent Sharlene Greaves of EUNICE DOWERS, a The woman is reported to perusal, following which it would Dorsetshire Hill, was reported Nigerian national who was have committed the go to the Office of the Director of missing from the prison around already facing 39 charges in offences between August 1, Public Prosecutions (DPP).

10 am on October 1. He turned connection with 2018 and January 31, 2019, Chief Magistrate Rechanne himself in at the Central Police fraudulently using a credit by unlawfully using Browne granted the adjournment. Station around 3 pm on that same card issued to prominent DaSilva’s credit card and Cupid, 45, of Murray’s Village, day, after a wanted bulletin was businessman and owner of cash book to purchase is being charged with, between issued for him. He was Star Garage, Bertille “Silky’ various articles.

September 29 and October 2, accompanied by attorney Jomo DaSilva to obtain certain All 39 charges were laid 2019, being employed in the Thomas. services, has been slapped indictably, and Dowers was Public Service in St. Vincent and Primus pleaded guilty to with ten additional charges. therefore not required to the Grenadines as a Prison escaping lawful custody when he Dowers, a citizen of St. plead when she stood before Officer, did make abuse of the was taken before Chief Vincent and the Grenadines Chief Magistrate Rechanne authority of his office, by doing an Magistrate Rechanne Browne at who has been residing here Browne at the Serious arbitrary act prejudicial to the the Serious Offences Court, and Eunice Dowers for some eight years, and Offences Court during her rights of the Superintendent of was sentenced to 16 months in was employed with Star court appearances.

Prisons, to wit, conspired to aid prison.

Dowers, who is out on Garage, is now accused of She had appeared in the escape of Veron Primus from Cupid has been suspended from High Court bail, is converting criminal court in February of this lawful custody. duties pending the outcome of his represented by Attorney property, in the sum of year on the first set of Cupid is also charged with matter.

Grant Connell. thousands of dollars. charges. agreeing with Veron Primus, that

Prison Officer’s case set for January

Nigerian slapped with more charges

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 5.

News

ChurchesÊ fate in JusticeÊs hands

in defence of a challenge to the anti-buggery laws here, will know their fate on November 20.

Justice Esco Henry, on hearing arguments, gave that assurance last Wednesday.

The ten churches involved are: Seventhday Adventist Church; Evangelical Church of the West Indies; New Testament Church of God; Spiritual Baptist Church; Church of God St. Vincent; New Life Ministries; Light of Truth Church of God; Kingstown Baptist Justice Esco Henry is Church; Living Water expected to hand down Ministries International, her decision in writing. and Hope Evangelism Outreach Ministries.

TEN CHURCHES WHO The ten were also part PETITIONED THE HIGH of a march and rally held COURT here for a right to become a party. i.e. to join last Thursday, under the with the Attorney General, banner of the Christian

was argued by Meisha Thomas and Shirlan Coalition SVG. The Cruickshank, while Jomo ‘Zita’ Barnwell activity was aimed at showing resistance/objection to a challenge to the Buggery Laws of SVG, filed in the High Court by two gay Vincentians, Sean MacLeish and Javin Johnson.

The claim by the two is that the anti-buggery and gross indecency laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, contravene their constitutional rights.

As it stands, the law in part says that a person found to have engaged in an act of indecency with a person of the same sex, whether in private or public, is guilty of an offence and liable to be imprisoned for five years.

The churches’ claim

represented the interest of the two claimants.

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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

People

Participants in the 2019 International Leaders Programme on their visit to the British Parliament.

First time country representatives from (L-R) Sweden, South Sudan , St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Estonia (two) and the BVI met with Peter Jones, Chief Operating Officer at The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (centre).

International Leaders Programme: An eye-opener JOURNALIST AND COMMUNITY ACTIVIST Kenville Horne has described his participation in the International Leaders Programme (ILP) in the United Kingdom, as an eye-opener and an experience that will help guide how he shapes his contribution to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

Horne, a member of the reporting staff of THE

Kenville Horne had a private moment with Lord Butler of the House of Lords.

VINCENTIAN, returned to the state last Tuesday after attending the ILP held from November 4 — 10, 2019.

The ILP is described as an international leadership development and networking programme. It is organized and delivered by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. It identifies potential global leaders of the future and brings them to the United Kingdom for high-level meetings, briefings, and diplomatic visits. The goal of the Programme is to promote lasting global partnerships with emerging leaders and future decision-makers.

SVG was the smallest nation that was represented, and Horne was the first person from his country to participate in the ILP. Other participants came from seven African countries, China, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Ukraine, Estonia, Argentina, Peru, Dominican Republic, Venezuela and the British Virgin Islands.

Horne said that he was able to develop a bond with all the participants and facilitators, and that he was very mindful

Participants on their visit to Cambridge University.

that he was representing his country. He also pursued a quiet effort aimed at keeping SVG on the list of future participants.

Among an extensive list of areas discussed were democracy, politics, climate change, girls education, health, cyber security, architecture, conservation and charity. The sharing was a myriad of views and interpretations highlighting the different cultures represented and, “as one would expect, they were interesting and stimulating,” Horne declared.

The participants also visited the British Parliament in an effort to understand how the British system of governance works, particularly the relationship between the House of Lords and the House of Commons.

And then there was a visit to Cambridge.

“In Cambridge, we visited Cambridge University, which I found most intriguing. The University’s conservation work, including a major project in Antarctica, was an eye-opener. Imagine holding a piece of ice from Antarctica that is over 10,000 years old, or having a conversation with a Cardiac Surgeon who compiles cryptic crosswords for the Guardian,” said Horne.

Back in London, participants had the opportunity to dialogue with the CEO of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy Anthony Smith CMG. The Foundation is the UK public body dedicated to supporting democracy around the world.

It works with parliaments, political parties, and civil society groups to help make

countries’ political systems fairer and more inclusive, accountable and transparent.

And participants revelled in a visit to the Emirates Stadium, the home-stadium for Arsenal F.C. located in Holloway, London. It is considered as the third-largest football stadium in the IK. “It was interesting to have a first-hand view of the journey the players take before and after a football match, as well as hearing about the Arsenal Community Charity work,” stated Horne.

Kenville Horne listens attentively This visit was of to a response, which he particular intertest to prompted, from a member of the Horne since, as he House of Lords. reminded, he has a sports academy, and therefore he vicious circle in which you went out of his way to might have found yourself and understanding what sort of do something meaningful with community partnerships your life,” he exhorted.

Arsenal has developed.

Horne expressed thanks to “The final night was our the Foreign and time to say goodbye to each Commonwealth office for other and to reflect on our facilitating his recent experience. I was also experience. fortunate enough to meet and engage world renowned Xfactor and Britian Got Talent judge, Simon Cowell whom I found to be very warm and friendly,” said Horne.

Horne, a recipient of the Queen’s Young Leader Award in 2015 and the Commonwealth Points of Light Award in 2018, admitted that he did not meet life easy, but he was able to lift himself from the struggles.

“I want to take the opportunity to say to all the youth out there who are struggling or who find themselves in trouble, that I Kenville Horne and X Factor was there too. … I want to and Britain’s Got Talent encourage you to break the judge, Simon Cowell.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 7.

Diaspora

400-year commemoration in Northern Ireland

400-year Commemoration Transatlantic Slave Trade 2019 Launch.

THE REGISTERED CHARITY - African and Caribbean Support Organisation of Northern Ireland (ACSONI) is commemorating 400 years since the start of the transatlantic slave trade with a series of events that explore Belfast’s links to this seminal period of

history.

The Links and Legacy Project is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and consists of a series of exhibitions, commemorations and seminars across Belfast.

It aims to highlight the

cultural heritage showcase at Titanic Belfast on 9 November, and closing with a religious service in St injustices associated Stange, Consul General owners from Northern Anne’s Cathedral on 17 with the largest of St. Vincent and the Ireland who had November. A conference genocide and forced Grenadines to Northern plantations across the at University College relocation of people in Ireland said: “We Caribbean. The world history, and to encourage these exhibition also charts the Stranmillis on 7 November will explore promote conversation seminars to engage civil contribution to the antihidden connections with about its lasting society to discuss and slavery movement in the slave trade and its impact. better understand this Belfast, spearheaded by legacies.

Joseph Ricketts, very dark period of people like Thomas The series of events Manager of ACSONI, colonial history. Both the McCabe and Mary Ann form part of the United said: “Inspired by the genocide of our McCracken, who helped Nations designated UN designated indigenous people and raise awareness of the International Decade slavery in atrocities associated with International Decade for People of African for People of African the Caribbean have the slave trade. The Descent, we wanted to historically resulted in exhibition can be viewed Descent, which aims to promote respect, tell the story of a an underdevelopment, in its second phase, protection and fulfilment strong people who social and economic entitled ‘Journey’, at of all human rights and survived one of the most considerations for Titanic Belfast on 8-9 fundamental freedoms oppressive periods in developing small island November. history, and consider states.”

The Links and Legacy for people of African descent. (Source: Consul what this means for their The project’s Exodus series of events runs General of SVG to learning and integration exhibition displays until mid November, Northern Ireland) here in Northern Ireland. details of dozens of slave culminating in a grand It is of relevance for everyone because it is by recalling the past that we can prevent the same mistakes from happening in the future.”

Dr Christopher

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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 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

Given over to a friend, Michael John MICHAEL JOHN, even with the extenuating reach of his sobriquet Black Messenger, was not a hero and didn’t pretend to be one. He was just an ordinary person, with extraordinary qualities and commitment.

No need to labour over his exploits as a calypsonian; the vast majority of those who claim to have ‘admired’ him as an exponent of the calypso art form would come forward to tussle for a space on the dais to proclaim his ‘greatness’.

Further, no need to rehash what others will speak of as his formative years as a member of the Black Awareness movement of the 1970s, and how he was such a conscious black man.

Sadly, the many who would rush to eulogise Michael John did not know him for the man he was; they never sought to know the man within his black skin.

How many can attest to knowing him as a man who, unlike many of us, did not allow the harsh reality of the real world to tinge his idealism? He remained starry-eyed all his life, always the optimist who believed that things can change, even if in his later years he appeared to grow impatient for that change.

And while he remained rooted in his Blackness, he continued to ‘search’ for new alternatives and spoke of “broader pastures” that could influence that change.

Those who expected him to repeat his calypso feat of his earliest years, never took the time to see how his later works appeared to question, to offer new thoughts, new strategies and still point fingers at those ‘newbies’ who he said continued to deny real change and disguise their intentions in rhetoric.

His membership was, he proclaimed, to a People’s Movement which he said would eventually see the end of political leaders who had bastardised the work of the 1970s, and had become either “accommodationists” or proponents of failed political and economic systems.

At the same time, Michael

remained part of the calypsonians’ movement because he believed in the potential of the spoken word as a liberator of the most oppressed people. How many calypsonians have this interpretation of the usefulness of the art form in which they are involved?

And, strange as it might sound, the real Michael John, it seemed, could never stop smiling, in stark contrast to the sharp glare that would often characterize his appearance on the street.

That glare was to denote the “warrior in me… to live the spirit of the Garifuna,” he would say when confronted.

And warrior or not, he had the endearing quality, so rare these days, of being able to laugh with his heart and not his brain.

It is difficult to remember Michael ever laughing at anyone (except at the bankrupt system we all so loved to hate). Rather, he laughed with everyone as a method of sharing camaraderie.

But he had one fault. Society, including his ‘admirers and colleagues’, said he spoke too much. In fact, had they paused to listen, they would have concluded instead that he always spoke out and spoke exactly what he thought was right. That was the nature of the man — no hypocrisy! He spoke from the heart and he often spoke too fast, but he would make sure he was understood.

That got him into trouble many times. He was ridiculed, spoken down, even made a joke of behind his back, all for speaking out against injustice, corruption and the fraud in the system — government, calypsonian association, whatever.

Yes, he took on the evil, rotten system — in its many forms and shapes - but never became cynical. It was something he needed to do, because he never changed from the starry-eyed boy.

So, keep smiling, friend, brother. When this pall of sadness lifts, we promise we will smile with you. Perhaps also sip a bit of the communion wine.

Teachers’ 1975 March in context (a reprint) “AT THE TIME OF THE TEAR-GASSED teachers march in 1975, there was a oneyear-old coalition Government of ten Labourites: RM Cato, H.K Tannis, St. Clair Dacon, Arthur Williams, Grafton Isaacs, Arthur Woods, Vincent Beache, Randolph Russell, Sam Slater, Levi Latham, plus two PPPites in Papa and Mammy Joshua who somehow led the Opposition, with Leader of the NDP James Mitchell as the other member of the National Assembly.

That Government and its successor were variously dubbed by Milton Cato as “Ten-Two-One is murder” and the “strongest Government in the world”. They were generally and generously supported by the teachers with whom there was unfinished business to complete.

Just about the time, Mike Browne, a member of Yulimo, had taken over the presidency of the SVUT with the pledge to raise it from being a social club to the status of bona fide trade union which called for settlement of issues left hanging from the previous regime. The government who took the teachers for granted, dragged its feet and was suddenly confronted with an ultimatum: either negotiate, or else.

The Government which was on a power-trip, dug in its heels. On presenting their “demands,” teachers were told, that the Government does not listen to “demands”, only “requests”. And Cato refused to accept as part of the teacher’s delegation a lawyer John of the regional body sent from the Trinidad Branch.

Several attempts were made to contact and settle with Minister of Education St. Clair Dacon down to the last minute, which was the evening before the threatened march was to take place. As was customary, Dacon slipped through a back door, and the 31 teachers reacted by disorderly behaviour in a public place .

Police trucks were sent for, into which they were bundled, taken to police headquarters, put in prison and charged.

It took me as their solicitor over two hours to arrange bail, which was granted that afternoon. Clearly, it had been a ruse to process them through the jail, where they at least “got a taste of prison”.

Among those arrested at the Ministry were prominent and decent hard-working teachers such as Emily Haynes, Blazer Williams, Cools Vanloo, Robbie Fitzpatrick, Judith Hull-Ballah, Ann

Williams. In fact, the latter two who turned out to be front-line Methodists, were asked by regional Methodist authority to request a separate trial at which lay Minister Carl Collymore would preside as magistrate! To their undying credit, they remained with their fellowteachers.

An attempt was made legally to proscribe the march slated for the next day. By then, the teachers had been charged up, and there was no turning back. The marchers gathered at the Grammer School playing-field, and keeping in close touch with their solicitor, they set off to march, until they were stopped by a hail of tear- gas canisters thrown by cops under the command of a very good friend of mine at the time, Inspector Bertram Lewis.

I had joined the marchers at the junction of Bay and Egmont Street where my chambers were then located. I got a taste of tear-gas as I tried to intervene to no effect, as the police arrested the “ringleaders,” the SVUT President and Vice President among them, Mike Browne and Yvonne Francis Gibson who, up to that moment, had been a faithful and unwearying follower of Labour Party and a dependable election worker for Arthur Williams, the Attorney-General who led the prosecution when they lost. However, the teachers appealed and won, against Theo Browne who handled the brief for the Crown.

The demonstration for all practical purposes had been effectively stopped on the approaches to the Police Barracks. But the police, like “trigger happy recruits,” created havoc in Kingstown and specifically targeted the Union’s office which the “Star” Newspaper, mouthpiece of the Labour Government called “The House of Infamy”.

In their wild and indiscriminate attack on all “opponents” of the Government, especially those accused of treachery, betrayal and ingratitude, the police set hands upon Pa Jack, Tim Ottley and Ferdinand Toney who supported the regime. Teachers lost their scholarships to Continued on Page 19.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 9.

Letters

In support of Curtis King

ELECTION TALKS ARE IN THE AIR, and since Hon. Cecil McKie will not be running again, my choice of candidate is Mr. Curtis King. As it was said, a person must love people and be in touch with them.

Curtis lives right in the constituency of West St. George. He has always been in touch with people through the various activities and organizations that he

served. He is someone who is well known by the constituents and well respected. Curtis was involved in National Youth Council, the SVG Teachers Union; he was involved in sports in his area. As a Head Teacher, he did a commendable job.

Curtis, we can attest is a humble and friendly person. He is someone

The best Lecturer MR. EDITOR, I read in the Trinidad newspapers that our Prime Minister was in Tobago last week, where he delivered another lecture. He must have the record for Prime Minister who has delivered the most lectures in one year.

There will come a time, Mr. Editor, mark my word, when people are going to get fed-up of hearing him. He will end up with only his party supporters as his listeners. But that is another point for another day.

The lecture the Prime Minister delivered in Tobago had to do with Reparations.

Reparations might be an ‘in topic’, but it is a side issue to all the local

concerns that we have here but have not addressed. Not least among these is a health service where people still have to buy basic medications for themselves and their families to use, especially when they are hospitalized. And then we await the millions the PM said we have for road repairs.

What we can expect is that next year is going to be a busy year; after all, it is an election year.

A lot of things which were not addressed in the first four years of this term and even dating back to previous terms, will be addressed because the money will appear all of a sudden from where we might

easy to talk to. He has built and continues to build a relationship with people. This trait is very important in order to represent people. He, having served as a teacher, would understand the system, and would know the struggles of the Vincentian society.

Added to that, he comes from a poor family, but

has advanced himself, thus showing his sense of ambition. Thus, he would also understand how it feels to be poor and their struggles.

More, I am sure, can be said about the humble gentleman.

I, therefore, urge ULP not to take West St.George for granted by

never know. Look out for a lot of government work and a lot of party handouts. And sadly, the voters will lap all of this up as thought the government is doing them a favour, when in truth, that is what they are expected to do when they get elected.

So, Mr. PM, stop all the distraction by calling for CARICOM leaders to do more on the Reparations issue, and start caring about your own people.. about the sick and the struggling farmers.

And by the way, is Jomo going to be fired as Chairman of the Local Reparations Committee, now that he has resigned from the ULP?

THESE DAYS, as I read the reports from the courts in the three newspapers we have here, I am led to ask whether our Judges and Magistrates have become Mathematicians.

Each week, I read where it is reported that Magistrate or Justice such and such started at this number (of years), subtracted so many years for a guilty plea, considered (subtracted in most cases) the years the accused has been on remand, added back a little because the accused might have had a record, all before arriving at a sentence of so many years. Long ago, it was this or that time depending on the seriousness of the crime.

Now, it seems Judges and Magistrates better walk with their calculators so they can avoid making errors with their mental arithmetic. I tell

Steven

No to same sex marriage THE MARCH AND RALLY BY THE COALITION OF CHURCHES is a welcome move. Some may be critical of the churches, saying that it is their choice of how they live their lives; that it does not matter what is said or done, those who challenge the Buggery law will be successful; and that it is just a matter of time before same sex marriage is legalized. We know that if these guys are successful, it can have serious effects on the church and the country by extension.

If these men are successful and the laws are changed to accommodate the same sex marriage, then marriage officers

would be under pressure to perform same sex marriage. Refusing to perform same sex marriage would mean that you are denying them their rights. We know that in places like USA, a marriage officer can be charged for refusing to marry two persons of the same sex, since to do so would be in violation of their human right. Once same sex marriages are made legal, one doesn’t have a choice to refuse to marry two persons of the same sex.

If the Buggery law is changed to accommodate same sex marriage, we would be sending a message to the children and future generations,

mistake, and run someone instead of CURTIS KING. A ULP Supporter

Judges or Mathematicians

that it is okay for two persons of the same sex to get married. Let us bear in mind that this is a sin against nature. The bible classifies them as having a mind of a beast. To be gay is a sin against God and nature, and it is also an abomination.

Let us pray that these guys would not be successful. For if they are, then our country will not only face a severe wrath from God, but it will send this country backwards spiritually and morally.

May the Lord be glorified in this nation and in our homes. United we stand, divided we fall.

Kennard King 4857324

underestimating the opposing candidate.

The ULP should not take that constituency for granted by telling themselves that they have a safe seat, but can find themselves disappointed.

They must not make the same mistake they did with the South Leeward constituency where they failed to recapture that constituency, because the wrong candidate was selected over the more popular one. Had they run Grenville Williams instead of Jomo Thomas, it might have been a ULP seat. I am urging the ULP not to make this same

you!!!! What a world?

It all well and good to talk of standardization and following guidelines, but it’s another thing when this arithmetic could result in what the people see as a lighter sentence for someone who committed a gross crime, and a heavier sentence for what they would see as a less serious crime.

And it seems that a thing called “Hard Labour” is no longer a part of the sentence for those found guilty of committing serious crimes?

Times have really changed in our court system, and from where I am standing, it seems the changes have all been in favour of the criminals.

I know people are going to say, ‘Boy, you living behind God’s back’.

But I would want them to compare these times to when things were

simple and straightforward. Didn’t we have less crime then?

Stanley Paul

* Why the cattle asking the pigs if they still going to Grenada?

They asking: How come they say we going, and the Grenadians don’t know we coming? * Ah wonder if Kingstown would ah been like how it is today if Eddy Griffith was alive? * How come Mitchell and Gonsalves want to change the face of Kingstown with a whole set a European style building? * When is Jomo going to tell the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help him God? * If we serious about our court system, how could we leave the busiest court in SVG — the Kingstown Magistrate Court — without a Magistrate for so long? * What is going to happen if Magistrate Ricky Burnett take up the job as High Court Master in which he is currently acting?

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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Twenty Announcements that are People-Centred (Pt 2)

and former national CONTINUING FROM LAST WEEK’S ARTICLE cricketer); 5. Doris where we examined the first ten (10) of Mc Intosh (Netball Administrator). the twenty (20) announcements made by Prime Minister Gonsalves at the Sixteenth, the project for the writing Independence Parade at Victoria Park; this of a comprehensive “History of St. week, we conclude the two-part series by Vincent and the Grenadines” is being looking at the other ten (10) elaborated through the efforts of four announcements. Most Vincentians can appreciate the meaning and value of these Vincentian historians: Dr. Michael Dennie, Dr. Adrian Fraser, Dr. Cleve people-centred policies as part of the Scott, and Dr. Arnold Thomas. Cabinet government’s thrust to lift the living has already approved the initial budget. standards of Vincentians. It must be The government will fund the project emphasised that these announcements fully. represent a number of initiatives, most of Seventeenth, during this 40th year of which have budget implications, while a few may not, that will positively touch the reclaimed independence, a final determination will be made in time for lives of every section of the Vincentian National Heroes Day 2020 for the society. The remaining ten (10) elevation to the status of National Hero announcements detailed below were of one or more of the following persons: delivered by Prime Minister Gonsalves: “Eleventh, a shipment of 5,160 sacks George Mc Intosh, Ebenezer Joshua, Robert Milton Cato, and John P. of fertiliser from Taiwan will be Eustace. distributed to farmers at highly Eighteenth, a Committee is being subsidised prices to boost further agricultural production. A grant, free of established by Cabinet to examine, review, and engage in public cost, of 40 sacks of fertiliser to each of consultation regarding the naming the 16 registered agricultural and/or renaming of various public cooperatives will be made. Note the places, streets, and buildings. The symbolism of 40! Big up the farmers! overwhelming number of Vincentians Twelfth, the physical infrastructure considers that some colonially-named for our judicial system and public spaces, including streets, ought to parliamentary democracy will be be renamed. It is part and parcel of the strengthened consequent upon the recent decision of the government of the exercise of remaking ourselves in our Republic of China (Taiwan) to support a own image to fit our collective sense, and sensibility. soft-loan of US $20 million from a Nineteenth, during the coming twelve Taiwanese bank to construct a modern months, especial efforts would be made Parliament building and Court House to honour appropriately dozens of our Complex on two parcels of land almost citizens, who have excelled in this or obliquely opposite the headquarters of that uplifting human endeavour. The the Ministry of Agriculture on Richmond Hill Road. [One of the parcels various communities will be asked to assist in the elaboration of a permanent of land which was acquired by the Honours Roll, as a fitting memory to our government, is still enmeshed in exemplars. litigation on the issue of the extent of Finally, the activities under the the compensation. Our government is anxious to have that matter resolved, if recently-launched Sport Against Crime and Renewal at 40! will be ramped up possible through negotiation and over the next twelve months. All hands mediation. and minds are needed for these two Thirteenth, the commencement date initiatives”. for duty-free Christmas barrels and The “buzz” that these announcements packages is Monday, November 18, generated days after they were made, 2019; the duty-free concession will run even to the present, is testament to the until December 31, 2019. This is the degree of anticipation that awaited 19th successive year that this government has offered this concession. them as the large crowd listened intently to the Prime Minister’s address.

Fourteenth, please keep your eyes As was expected, there were some and ears open for a number of national anticipated disclosures, such as the and community projects, inclusive of duty-free barrels that’s into its 19th roads, which will be formally commissioned or launched over the next year, a measure that many families few weeks and months. There is a huge depend on and take full advantage of, as number of them. One which touches my their relatives in the diaspora continue to provide tangible support to them here heart is the impending opening of a at home. The appointment of deserving rehabilitated building and associated structures to accommodate, temporarily, Vincentians who have served in cultural or sporting disciplines and ambassadors our indigent elderly at the Lewis Punnett Home until the construction of in recognition of their contribution. The farmers continue to benefit directly from a modern geriatric facility at the this targeted intervention in existing site. agriculture, and the symbolism of our Fifteenth, three deserving nationals 40th anniversary of independence are being accorded the status of should not be lost as 40 registered Cultural Ambassador: Kingsley “Hero” cooperatives will benefit from subsidised Roberts (pan player and arranger, musician, song writer, and calypsonian; fertilizer, courtesy the Republic of China, Taiwan.

Peggy Carr (Poet and veritable mother Whether you are a public servant, a to our students in Taiwan); and Cherry Ince, who currently resides in New York nurse, a teacher, a farmer, the head of one of the approximately 40,000 (musician, song writer, musical households in Saint Vincent and the arranger, and music producer).

Grenadines, a member of the sporting or cultural fraternity, a daily-paid worker, Five Sporting Ambassadors are also a tradesman/woman or a part of the being appointed: youthful or elderly population 1. Elliott “Morrie” Millington deservedly receiving public assistance, (Captain of the 1979 Football Team); you have reasons to celebrate. This ULP 2. Rawltie Lowe (Outstanding government that has been elected to member of Team 1979 and Caribbean govern with the popular majority over 4 Football Team in 1981 and a Coach successive elections, continues to work today); on your behalf, to ensure the constant 3. Ian Sardine (Football improvement of the quality of life of Administrator); Vincentians of all ages and all 4. Dr. Kishore Shallow (Vice backgrounds.

President, West Indies Cricket Board, Introduction

Developing the Tourism Sector in SVG TOURISM CONTRIBUTES substantially to the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. If properly managed, it has the potential to make an even bigger contribution. Unfortunately, the inability of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime is unable to fully develop our full tourism potential, as is evidenced by its ineffective marketing, inadequate infrastructure, the lack of planning, and the absence of specialized personnel in the industry.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) will place emphasis on the proper and ongoing development of the tourism sector, with the main objectives being: to encourage and record growth in tourism’s contribution to GDP; create employment opportunities at all levels throughout the society; establish linkages with other economic sectors, and to generate foreign exchange.

Undoubtedly, we have not yet fully developed this lucrative aspect of the economy. The potential for growth is not surprising, since St. Vincent and the Grenadines possesses a wide range of tourists’ attractions. These include attractions such as: natural landscapes, wildlife, beaches, monuments, forts, and a number of unique cultural activities.

Our breathtaking natural beauty and diverse attractions should entice a wide variety of visitors, which would solidify tourism as one of the pillars of our economy and a major foreign exchange earner. However, over the past several years, the fortunes of the tourism sector have been in decline.

For instance, the Cruise Ship season has begun, but we have not capitalized fully on this aspect. The other islands in the OECS are attracting more cruise ship visitors than us. Figures from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank showed that in 2018, there were 217,876 cruise ship passengers to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In the same year, St. Lucia had 760,306, Grenada 342,826, St. Kitts and Nevis 1, 067, 647 and Antigua 794, 604. St. Kitts and Nevis, the smallest in the grouping, had 849, 771 more cruise ship visitors than St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2018.

We can do better.

The NDP will work with the private sector and all relevant stake holders in developing a Cruise Tourism Policy.

Not only will this Policy focus on attracting increased manageable numbers, but it will also encourage a fair distribution between all appropriate ports throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The NDP also sees the improvement of Kingstown as an integral part of a successful Cruise policy, and will work assiduously in developing a short to medium term development strategy towards this end.

Identification and development of appropriate strategies will be critical to achieving the desirable levels of visitor expenditure. The development of sourcing of products and supplies for cruise ships, and encouraging the employment of Vincentian nationals on board cruise ships, will be other important thrusts in the NDP’s Cruise Tourism Development Policy.

Meanwhile, the yachting industry is in a state of growth internationally.

With an increasing number of persons retiring early, and higher average incomes, there is an increasing amount of leisure time. However, it would appear that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not positioned to take advantage of this lucrative sector. The

ill-advised policies by the ULP regime and the negative publicity of crimes committed against yacht passengers have negatively affected the yachting sector. For example, in 2006, 93,638 yacht passengers visited St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The number of arrivals by yacht was reduced to 56, 826 in 2018; a decline of 39.3%.

The NDP will diversify our tourism product. We will target specific areas to promote and develop, such as diving, yachting, cruise tourism, ecotourism, retirees/returnees, local festivals and cultural events like carnival, music festivals, Gospel Fest and Nine Mornings. We will target markets in Europe, Canada, United States of America, and the Caribbean. We will also develop, in collaboration with airlines, hoteliers, travel agents and other service providers, special tour packages for Caribbean tourists to boost regional tourism, especially in the offseason. The development of marinas and other yachting facilities in suitable locations throughout the country, such as in Bequia, the Southern Grenadines and Villa, will also receive attention.

Further, the NDP will encourage investment in small to mid-size hotels and villas to attract visitors seeking a special experience. Special programmes will be developed to attract yacht cruising visitors and encourage them to stay longer within St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ waters.

We will enhance existing tourism sites and utilize our historical heritage and natural beauty and develop new ones throughout the country. We will also develop cable cars service in North Leeward and eco-tourism trails in various areas.

Local craft makers will be encouraged and assisted to produce and sell indigenous crafts.

We will work vigorously to develop this sector and transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a leading destination in the Caribbean.

Towards this end: we will establish and operate a first-class tourism training institute that will improve the delivery of high-quality service in the tourism industry; we will ensure security in our harbours and bays through regular coastguard patrols and police foot patrols in resort areas and beaches; we will give special attention to preventing harassment and criminal activities in general, against visitors, through, but not exclusively, prompt prosecution of offences against visitors; we will establish a special police unit tasked with investigating crimes against yacht visitors and other tourists; we will seek to reduce the travel cost and to improve the reliability and frequency of air service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It is crystal clear that the ULP regime does not have a clue as to how to develop far less manage the tourism industry. They are incompetent. We are aware of the importance of tourism to the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NDP is committed to the development of the tourism sector, and will work vigorously to develop this sector and transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a leading tourist destination in the Caribbean.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 11.

Views

When obstacles abound

For a more ordered SVG

“Obstacles are necessary for success because in selling, as in all careers of importance, victory comes only after many struggles and countless defeats.”

Augustine “Og” Mandino (1923-1996) – American author of the bestselling not limited to our pursuit of creating book entitled “The Greatest Salesman and sustaining a better self. These in the World”. principles can also be applied to the WE OFTEN ADMIRE those individuals who responsibilities that we have as face multiple challenges in life but persist communities when seeking to sustain and/or improve our natural to overcome them. Stories abound in environment. Our rivers and our relation to individuals who are born with physical defects but develop abilities and surrounding seas appear to be crying out to us for help in reversing the techniques that enable them to accomplish tasks previously considered to degradation that has occurred by be impossible. Thanks to the Internet, we society’s irresponsible behaviours. We have done so by adding physical and now view individuals who were born without arms but develop the ability to use chemical pollutants. Some citizens may incorrectly conclude that the challenge their feet to comb their hair, brush their to clean up our natural environment teeth, paint landscapes, prepare meals, has gone beyond us; it is now too use smart phones, play musical massive an obstacle. However, instruments, drive vehicles, and so on.

Nicholas James Vujicic (born 4 December throughout and beyond the region, we have seen the emergence of community 1982) is a classic example of such an groups and volunteers who join forces to individual. This Australian Christian champion clean up campaigns and evangelist and motivational speaker was restore many of the ecosystems born with tetra-amelia syndrome, a rare disorder (called phocomelia) characterized previously considered to have been by the absence of arms and legs. YouTube beyond hope. We are forever grateful to those concerned and enlightened now features many videos of individuals individuals who refuse to be daunted by with tetra-amelia syndrome who defy the the “environmental obstacles”. We odds to accomplish great feats. These differently-abled individuals have become admire their resolve to rejuvenate our fragile ecosystems. sources of inspiration and useful Many nations, aware of the negative reminders that we have the potential to be impact of climate change, have overcomers (and to do very well) when embarked on programmes aimed at obstacles abound.

The preceding paragraph beckons us reducing air pollution, reducing the use of fossil fuels, reducing the use of plastic to contemplate the obstacles that we presently face and how we have reacted and Styrofoam containers, encouraging recycling, and so on. The Internet and to them. In some instances, we may have accepted defeat and merely sought cable television now provide ample evidence of the melting glaciers, the to cope with the consequences of our physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual pollution of our marine habitat, and the dangers of pesticide and herbicide use. immobility. We observe too many individuals who lull themselves into the We commend the leaders in business, zone of self-pity and become motionless. government, and society who have However, that need not be the final become advocates or more responsible circumstance. We often have the behaviours where these are concerned. capacity, the ability, the capability, to They are not daunted by the obstacles get beyond the challenge or the setback. that seem to abound. These responsible We regularly have the potential to get and environmentally-conscious beyond life’s obstacles and hindrances. individuals commit to taking each We are so frequently more capable than valuable incremental step to overcome we think we are. We are stronger than the various physical and mental we imagine. The obstacles can be challenges that they encounter. overcome when we develop that spirit of Many of the examples presented in perseverance and persistence. Thomas the preceding paragraphs lead us to Carlyle (1795-1881), the Scottish conclude that our ability to overcome philosopher and writer, reminds us the obstacles that are presented in our that, “Permanence, perseverance and personal and communal lives are often persistence in spite of all obstacles, dependant on whether or not we are discouragements, and impossibilities: It prepared to overcome them. There is is this, that in all things distinguishes wisdom in moving from merely being the strong soul from the weak.” We are observers and analysists to becoming often stronger and more capable than proactive problem-solvers. Our we think we are. individual and communal efforts must We would be naïve to assume that we forever be directed at constantly can go through life without a series of bettering our best efforts. We remind challenges. We must also understand ourselves that even when obstacles and appreciate that there will be abound we often have the capacity to periods in our lives when these overcome them. Dr. Robert Schuller challenges, these obstacles will seem to (1926-2015), the American pastor, appear in abundance. These are the motivational speaker, and author, times when we must be mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually regularly reminded his audience that fortified. This is as true for the athlete when faced with obstacles we must develop the tenacity to climb over them, who is focused on performing at their manoeuvre around them, tunnel personal best, as it is for the student through them, or dig under them. That who prepares for a difficult commitment, that fortitude, is often examination. It is equally true for the what will separate the winners from the couple that is seeking to reconstruct a losers. We are winners (not whiners). broken relationship, or the alcoholic or drug user who is determined to kick the We therefore refuse to be daunted when obstacles abound. bad habit. Regardless of the obstacles that we face, success is possible if/when Send comments, criticisms & we create and sustain the resolve to be suggestions to an overcomer. julesferdinand@gmail.com The focus on being an overcomer is

ST. VINCENT IS A POOR, resource starved country, but our country’s natural beauty is universally acclaimed.

Our people are abundantly rich in spirit and enterprise. Most of us will do almost anything to take care of our families. Because of our small economy and the way it is ordered, most of our people experience enormous difficulties to make ends meet. And this is not for a lack of trying.

As we attempted to show last week, the unemployment rate in SVG is at least 40 percent. The salaries and income of workers are some of the lowest in the Caribbean. The average monthly salary is about $1,300.

Consequently, employed persons, including civil servants, ply a side trade to make ends meet.

The pressures to survive are great and growing. Because of the commercialized, materialistic way our society is organized, even more economic pressures are placed on the population. The burden on the poor demands extraordinary creativity, if not ingenuity to ensure survival.

This brings me to the vexed question of vending in Kingstown and the proper use of the Kingstown Vegetable Market. A few decades ago, vending in Kingstown was almost nonexistent. It was frowned on by most citizens.

Today, we have hundreds of vendors, and they are all over Kingstown. Most vendors ply their wares in peace and quiet, patiently waiting for a sale. But in the best fertilized fields, you will always find some weed. Occasionally, things come to a head, and the strong arm of the state is used to destroy people’s sheds and tables and worse, confiscate their hard-earned produce.

This is what happened last week outside Ace Hard Ware Store. Police, allegedly responding to illegal activity, responded by using rough house tactics. They cleared the entire gallery, manhandling some of those gathered there in the process.

Interestingly, they did not make a single arrest. The rationale for vamping on the vendors was that they were responding to alleged illegal activity. In fairness to the authorities, it must be said that at least one person was shot and killed in that area. But that incident does not warrant a Peter pays for Paul and Paul pays for all response. It does not take a genius to know that such heavy-handed response will prove to be counter productive.

Amazingly, since the police action, a minimum of four armed police officers have been stationed at the spot where the ‘bad eggs’ regularly congregate. Now, if this ain’t stupidness, tell me what is?

Most people may not respect police, but police are feared. They know that the police can be rather brutal. They know most of the officers are armed.

Therefore, wherever there is a police presence, bet your life you are just a little safer. Why then were the police given licence to goon the honest vendors out of a livelihood because of suspicious activities of a few? An active police patrol in the area could have accomplished much more with little or no harm to police/civilian relations.

This episode compels one to wonder whether the police force have an

undercover unit that investigates, infiltrates, and gains actionable intelligence which will allow the state to arrest and try those suspected of criminal activities.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with vending in Kingstown. From time beyond mind, people try their very best to survive. It is the state’s responsibility to order society in such a manner to take care of the needs of all its citizens. When the state proves itself unable and unwilling to so order society, the people will act. And the people have been acting. They put a little something together and try to sell it. By plying their trade on the streets, many gain enough to take care of basic needs and send their children to school.

The state must do better with organizing Kingstown. It can close off Middle Street from the police headquarters to Heritage Square to vehicular traffic from 8 am to 5 PM to allow for vending. It can do a similar thing at Heritage Square. It can declare that there will be no more than 5 vendors on each block, and they must be a certain distance from each other.

There are two additional things we can do. To get more vendors in the market, we must place ‘magnet’, institutions such as Family Services, Licensing and Tax offices into the top level to bring people into the structure. Alternatively, the government can closedown the Solidarity Car Park and turn it over to the vendors. In time, we can get the World Bank or some friendly country to build a high ceiling simple market in that area.

To prevent everyone driving into Kingstown whenever, we can place a $10 tax on all vehicles that enter Kingstown Mondays to Saturdays between the hours of 7 AM and 5 PM. They have such a tax in London and other major cities across the world. Or we can develop a parking meter system to deal with vehicular congestion in Kingstown. All we need is a little thinking and some serious planning.

Most likely these suggestions will be scoffed at because they demand sacrifice from the more privileged among us. It is far easier to dump on the poor and less unfortunate. If we continue to tell the poor and less fortunate that they alone must make sacrifices, they will refuse; they will rebel and SVG will become totally and completely ungovernable. We disregard our history and underestimate the rebellious and fighting spirit of our people, to our own misfortune.

Finally, under no condition should we order our society to take care of foreign taste. We should strive for a cleaner, and much more ordered society, Kingstown included, but we should never sacrifice the less fortunate among us in a mad rush to please the taste of tourists and the more comfortable among us.

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

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12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

SVG- 6 airports but no economy

RETIRED BRITISH ROYAL AIR FORCE ENGINEER Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, very strongly contends that SVG’s six airports are an economic growth illusion. The airports were built with the promise of jobs and prosperity for our people. However, the net revenue for each airport is not enough to even pay their respective light bills.

This lack of planning has been a disaster for SVG and a significant opportunity cost to the Black, Poor and Powerless Population of SVG. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, who spent three years full-time reading for his BSc (Hons) in Accounting and Finance and Economics at Oxford Brookes University, England, strongly believes that there should have been a Cost Benefit Analysis for each airport, to determine the net revenue and multiplier effect in terms of actual financial growth for our people and our country.

Building the Argyle Airport was a huge financial mistake, in that Argyle Airport could never bring prosperity to our people and country. There was no need to build Argyle Airport before building a Science and Technology University or a tuna fishing and canning industry or agro-processing

export factories.

All of these industries would have provided a significant rate of return in terms of driving economic and longterm prosperity for our people and our country.

Haiti built an international airport in 1965 under the false assumption that it would boost tourism and bring prosperity to Haiti. Fifty-four years later, Haiti is still rated as one of the poorest in the World.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Argyle airport is a growth illusion and a long-term financial liability to our people and to our country.

The rate of net return from investment in tourism in SVG is worse than zero. Tourism could never be the engine of SVG’s economy; tourism is a growth illusion. Our country has over ten thousand square miles of sea, yet the incompetent policy makers give away sea space to Taiwan and other foreigners.

They have mashed up our living environment by building six Airports that have a zero rate of net return to the SVG Treasury. This is mindboggling.

Tourism could never bring prosperity to Haiti, and equally so, tourism could never bring prosperity

to SVG. Take a deep and serious analysis of Kingstown, and you can see that as a nation, we continue day by day to fall behind the rest of the World in our nation building.

Within five years of independence from the UK, Singapore built four Universities, ten Polytechnics and focused nation building on free high quality education, from Pre-School to University, with priority on a knowledge-based economy. That vision has propelled Singapore into a World Bank success story with one of the highest standards of living in the world.

A Green Government would focus on a knowledge-based economy with a fair tax system, high employment

creation, and a high priority given to dismantling white enclaves which are a significant obstacle to long term development for our children and great grandchildren.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org https://twitter.com/svggreenparty https://www.facebook.com/SVGGreen-Party-154937087877631/

Children and Dinosaurs I see

by COLIN KING DINOSAURS. When they existed, that must have been quite a period to have lived in for the human element.

Amidst gigantic creatures, meat eaters wreaking havoc on the attempts of mankind from that period, keeping a civilised and organised community must have been challenging indeed.

Dinosaurs are not necessarily an obsolete idea for toddlers visiting Kingstown, or going to school. They lie in parents who utter threats of violence to their children, or offer blackmail payment of some ice cream or a new video game.

Whatever the recourse, tyrannosaurus rex, a formidable ‘dino’, is alive and well.

I saw him, cute, large bug-eyed, looking at the dinosaur carriage - a van amidst the throng at the bus stop - marveling with tentative movements, bewildered by the hostile environment of adults and their charges. Then, an older sibling in school uniform holds his hand and they become one person, and the little four-year-old smiles.

“We’ll get through it,: says our faith in a God less and less prevalent in churches but expressed alternately in a young sibling support. “We’ll get through it, Jesus...”

I was listening to Christlike radio, a new station on frequency 99.1 FM, and a young speaker’s passionate address of the paedophile factor. He was speaking about adult men who target young boys and girls, and gave a loaded example of a friend of his who complained to him that a peer was molesting his 14-year-old daughter, and would not give him -the proponent- a way to get at the girl himself.

Look, you, who passionately made this case, be careful the boogeyman doesn’t get YOU! Children, I applaud your courage; you are trying when you play Christian lyrics accompanied by modern rhythms and musical background. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

When will we resolve our religious differences -even Christian on

Christian, in order to be concerned about one of our young charges? Find God where you can, children.. He’s not in church these days.

The girl who was put in a chokehold by her Dad on the way to school, and the persistent young male suitor who cornered a school girl at the vegetable market so that a vendor had to verbally intervene, speak to all of us needing the Christlike agenda in our lives.

Outside Caribbean Magic Restaurant years ago when I had good financial access, three older primary school boys were eating lunch from one carton. I had to stop and ask them, what was going on? When they explained, I had to buy them a couple of lunches.

Caribbean Magic, who donates a little lunch to the disadvantaged and whose cooking traditionally graced the mental home for Christmas, and proprietor Glenda, a unicorn amongst the dinosaurs, and the Tus-T work lunch campaign, encourage us to believe that, “We’ll get through it, Jesus... We’ll kill the green monster one day.”

Two little boys with their videogame and phone, young mother sitting with them under a gallery at 7 pm.

Polite, vibrant young men, showing the faith I term’ raising themselves’, 6 and 9 years old maybe, mom on the skids: “We’ll get through it...Jesus, Mohammad , Buddha.... .”

Orphaned pre-teen or younger, put himself through college, and plays an angelic violin....that was then....now a young adult, the violin is at home these days, and he only nods when I speak to him. He has met a dinosaur environment no doubt. Reading this, you know who you are....DON’T GIVE UP! And then there is the teenage tennis champ, bristling with energy, having his girlfriend smile at his … is it a joke or an admonition? He is ‘at home’ outside the Seventh-day Adventist church, beat-boxing a happy song with two or three of his peers...sounding like a soundstage phenomenon at what, 15? You can do it......if I can do it........keep the faith my children. Remember, faith without works is dead!

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 13.

Tropical Shipping donates to World Pediatric Project (WPP) WORLD PEDIATRIC PROJECT (WPP) received a kind donation of EC $4,000 from Tropical Shipping, as part of their contribution towards the ‘Every Child Counts (ECC) Campaign’.

The donation took place at WPP’s office in a brief handover involving Tropical Shipping Representatives Mrs. Maxine Howard (Sales Manager), Ms. Felicia George (Sales Coordinator) and Executive Director of World Pediatric Project, Lauren McIntosh.

WPP officially launched the

ECC campaign on February 26th and has a series of planned fundraising events, which will roll out over the next 2 years.

McIntosh said the ECC Campaign, “is a local initiative aimed at boosting awareness of WPP and the work we have done and diligently continue to do in SVG, as well as to encourage local philanthropy and to assist in funding the program and meeting the funding target of $270,000 in two years.”

She went on to state that

the ECC Campaign is about businesses, government and individuals working together as a community.

“It is a catalyst for us to come together as community to assist in healing our children that need medical care. By healing our children, we are restoring hope and the promise for a better future for our communities, our nation and the global community.”

McIntosh stressed, adding, “WPP is committed to reaching every child who needs our help.”

Howard expressed that it was a privilege to be able to make a meaningful contribution to the WPP, which provides access to critical paediatric, surgical and diagnostic health care services to needy children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean.

Howard also explained that the donation is in keeping with the company’s corporate social responsibility, which includes a commitment to improving the quality of life of

children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

McIntosh, meanwhile, appealed to individuals and the corporate community to support the 5K SWEAT event on November 30th, which is one of the fundraising activities organized in conjunction with Be Fit Movement SVG. The work of the WPP and its impact can be followed at www.worldpediatricproject. org and you can call the office at 784-451-2989

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14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts Festival Review

Nurses look for „Moments in Between‰

offspring (Mark Warren played

by Keida Olliviere) is in search DONEPAC of his father (Kyron/Jevan Curtain Call.

THE THIRD NIGHT was definitely the Crandon). With Mark comes the charm for SGVCC Division of Nursing impetus that compels the action Right: Jarred Education Performing Arts Club’s forward. His arrival is fraught (Kerron (DONEPAC’s) quick paced romantic with conflict, as it immediately Knights) dramedy. shatters the perfectionist facade ending So said Club President Martin behind which the protoganist relationship Trimmingham-Francis, who attributed masquerades. The intensity is with the less than ideal performance on near palpable as more subplots controling previous nights to “character analysis unfold. The ‘lawful child’ girlfriend wasn’t down so you couldn’t feel the (Jarred/Kerron Knights) must Angie character that was [being] portrayed; now suffer behavioral changes, (Sambeena most members weren’t one with the much of which is negative. The Yorke). environment (set)… it was just there wife (Jasarie/Tiffany Soleyn) is as a backdrop most times; there was a tormented with last Sunday’s performance. lot of blocking also...” fight or flight Crandon must be noted for He, however, delighted in seeing “… impulses. And also showing allround much improvement on Sunday night,” the upgrades to his craft. His the night performance on which this father/husband was a familiar face on the review is based. must come to DONEPAC stage as he’s terms with the been featured in most, if not The Play effects of his all, of their Festival wanton productions to date.

DONEPAC’s 2019 offering is the appetite.

The glaring weaknesses second in this the 13th Annual Bank The writer that were evident on opening of SVG sponsored National Theatre provides night were admirably Arts Festival. This original play enough addressed by Sunday night. reminds us that the human capacity to character arcs endure emotional pain is limited. As in this the Looking ahead too is our ability to forgive the second volume perpetrators of such pain. ‘Moments in to keep us But these weaknesses Between’ is set some 15 years into the invested in the need not be a part of such a future of a young couple, who telling of the prestigious festival is the weathered adultery and is now tale. However, view of Vincentian supposedly much stronger. some attention playwright and director News Year’s party with family Kyron and Jasarie pictured together.

The story picks up from ought to have Kevin Rodriquez, who caught DONEPAC’s 2018 prequel ‘Remember been paid to DONEPAC’s opening night credit - the production could have been the Vow You Made’, and is peppered other areas of the script’s inherent run. He commended the nurses for better assisted, from the writer’s end, with comic relief throughout. structure. their hard work having to juggle their with a bit more care for the falling Playwright Akeila Gonsalves action, the denouement and the actual work/study professional qualification again delivered another well received Areas of need requirements as well as production end of the play, which can be treated piece with enough plot points to keep preparations. “They really needed to the audience engaged, though the play While the production team, directed as something of an exclamation point, work on their stagecraft, backstage according to one YouTube based script tends more on the shorter side of

by Chazelle Williams, saw fit to treat management and the set itself, but for staged time. most of the story’s expository elements writing guru. me I wouldn’t put them at fault..,”he An appreciation of these intrinsic In this sequel, a hitherto unknown as a video prelude - much to their said while citing the club’s revolving features of the staged story structure would have greatly reduced the feeling membership as a challenge to retaining the kind of experience and of being shortchanged, as was expressed by a few patrons who caught exposure necessary to bring productions of a consistent quality. the production last weekend.

“The Ministry of Culture definitely Whether Kieda’s transsexual needs to make sure that they assist portrayal of Mark (that is the actress these groups in advance.. leading up to playing a male role), as well executed the Festival, not waiting until two or as it was, failed to impress, or if three months to try to cram something Sambeena Yorke’s Angie did not resonate with patrons, which it did, as together, but to find something systematic that would aid in the she wrestled with her jealousies and the subsequent loss of her love life, the development of these groups year round so that when they’re ready to choir with their Wrecking Ball Love present they’re in a better position.” mashup and the models in their We do not yet know what’s next for Renaissance Creations definitely DONEPAC (hopefully revamped out of served up a delicious preshow treat. town ‘Moments in Between’ reruns) as Lost lines were forgiven, as Stage their new executive is expected to Manager Rowan Bascombe and team assume leadership today. But the worked hard to facilitate seamless scene to scene transitions. This, we’ve Festival continues with the Royal SVG Police Force Drama Club’s ‘Mama Mark’s mother (Kendra/Chelsea Stay) threatens to tell his (Kyron/Jevan learnt, was another of their many Dear Son’ this weekend.

Crandon) wife everything. improvements as shown throughout

by JP SCHWMON Jp.schwmon.vincy.gmail.com

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 15

Education

Teachers honoured Wendy Bynoe, President of the SVG Teachers Union, presented each Honoree with an appropriate plaque.

TEN TEACHERS HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED for their contribution to the development of this nation. They are: St. Clair Cox, Sheldon Govia, Vincent Benjamin, Julian O’Garro, Gregory Marshall, Thea Marshall/Jack, Lenora Sam, Janice Ollivierre/Mitchell, Bertina Sandy and Kenneth Burgin, all of whom were selected by their Branches.

An Awards Ceremony took place last Tuesday at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Cooperative Credit Union Building, Kingstown. The session formed part of Teachers Solidarity Week staged by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Union of Teachers.

Sheldon Govia, responding on the recipients’ behalf, was happy that the honouring happened while the persons are alive.

St. Clair Cox joined the Teachers Union in 1973. A Georgetown native, Cox began his teaching career at the Georgetown Primary School, after having passed the School Leaving Examination.

He attended the Teachers College from October 1973 to June 1975. He was part of the Teachers Strike of 1975.

Cox served on the Executive of his Branch in several positions until his retirement from the profession in 2008.

Sheldon Govia spent 39 years in the classroom with an impact that lasted beyond the classroom. He is credited with introducing a Reading Competition in

the the South Central Windward constituency. His teaching began at the Union Methodist School from which he was transferred to the New Grounds Primary.

His last ten years saw him as Principal of the institution where his teaching career began.

Govia has served the Union both at the branch and national executive level.

Vincent Benjamin, after earlier training at the Stubbs Teaching Teacher Honorees who were on hand to accept their awards (from left) Julian O’Garro, Gregory Marshall, Thea Marshall/Jack, Lenora Sam, Vincent Benjamin, Sheldon Govia and St. Clair Cox. Absent: Janice Centre, enhanced his Ollivierre/Mitchell, Bertina Sandy and Kenneth Burgin.

Teacher Certification at the Teachers credited with the University of the the generation gap for indulge in her passion — College. And having baking. championing the cause of West Indies, where she which she has earned achieved academic Kenneth Burgin women by successfully specialised in Literacy here community’s qualification, he polished retired from the rallying for teachers to and Numeracy.

She respect. off his credentials by Bertina Sandy can be education system here get maternity leave. She continues to serve as an becoming an athletics dubbed the guiding light after 33 years, but ended her 36 years as a educator at the and cricket coach. As a continues to impart his of Canouan. With 37 teacher in 2016, having community level. result, he was an years devoted to knowledge in more performed duties at Janice Ollivierreintegral part of the education especially in sectors than one. He Union Methodist School, Mitchell of Bequia was nation’s youth sports her native Cananoun, progressed through the Argyle Roman Catholic, relieved of her teaching programme, including she is heralded for Pupil Teachers route and Cane End Government, duties in 1975 when she overseeing both local and having advanced the enhanced his skills with regional Students games. and Evesham Methodist became pregnant. She educational pursuits of a degree in Education School. returned to the His 41 years as an many. Affectionately and Management. That Lenora Sam served as classroom one year later activist of the Union known as ‘Tanty,’ she background propelled a Teacher from 1979 to and remained there until distinguished him as a maintains her him to be Principal of the 2016.

She has been a her retirement in 2008. nation builder. commitment to helping Kingstown Anglican stalwart of the Teachers Described as “short in Julian O’Garro started students with Primary School for the Union from 1983.

She stature, but big in voice,” teaching at the Rose Hall weaknesses, is a fulllast six years of his enhanced her ability she was noted for Government School in time community activist, career. (WKA) with training at the punctuality. She is 1970. He had training at and still finds time to Teachers College and at credited with bridging the Layou Pupil Teachers Centre before enlisting at the Teachers College. He was part of the historic Teachers Strike of 1975, and still A set of educational resources rues that he was not paid targeting the improvement of a “half penny cut in two,” literacy at the Petit Bordel for the month of Secondary School has been November when the donated by Hodder Education, an industrial action took international publishing company place. A stalwart of the that creates print and digital Union’s North Leeward resources.

Branch, he soldiered The contribution, valued at just through many a crisis, over EC$30,000.00, includes more and his caring approach than 500 books (fiction and nonsignalled him as a nation fiction), 1-year subscription to a builder. reading software, 1 laptop and 2 Gregory Marshall desktop computers expected soon, started teaching at the a set of computer speakers, a Bishop College projector and a printer.

Kingstown in 1970. He The supplies, which form part spent three years there of Hodder Education’s overall before transferring to the investment in education, will Civil Service, serving as outfit the school’s literacy room.

Principal of PBSS Rupert Nash (left) gladly accepts donation from a Customs Officer. He Local Representative of Hodder Byron Wilson, Local Representative of Hodder Education. resigned from the Service Education Byron Wilson, in his before the axe could have remarks, reaffirmed Hodder thanked the organization for Principal Rupert Nash also fallen on him because of Education’s commitment to supporting the Ministry’s quest to thanked Hodder Education for his dreadlocks. Marshall, assisting the Ministry of get all students reading at their the “generous donation.” He a resident of Clare Education in improving the appropriate grade levels. She also remarked, “I know that we as a Valley, returned to the literacy levels of students. He noted that a significant portion of school will use the equipment for classroom in 1987 and said “….we publish books that the betterment of the reading the staff members at the Petit continued until his some of you are using right here Bordel Secondary School are past programme and for our students’ at school, and we figure that it is students, and urged the current retirement in 2011. development on a whole.”

Thea Rodgers/Jack can our duty to give back to the student body to make the best use The resources were officially be considered the Mother community to which we sell our of the equipment to strengthen handed over during general of Women’s Rights as far products.” their literacy skills so that they assembly at the school on Monday Senior Education Officer for as the Teachers Union is too can make a meaningful November 11. (Contributed) Curriculum, Aldia Gumbs-Dyer, concerned. She is contribution to their community.

Hodder Education donates to PBSS

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16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Science

NUSS, SVGS and KNR:

Winners in NTRC competition

THE 2019 EDITION of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission’s (NTRC) ‘icode784’ Competition came to a close on Tuesday, with the final round of judging in all three categories.

Sabriya Neverson, Jamarl Pope and Moriah Williams of NUSS Conquerors 2, representing the North Union Secondary School, got the judges’ nod of approval for having the best idea in the Secondary Schools Idea Category, for their ‘Smart Desk Idea’ for students. The NUSS upped their position from third in 2018.

Astra of the St Vincent Grammar School and the UISS Health Science from the Union Island Secondary School placed second and third respectively.

Stanislaus Gomes, Isaac Cepeda and Luke Wilson of

Astra added to their second place finish in the Idea Category, when they won the Secondary Mobile App category, with an app geared towards assisting visitors with respect to places of interest, maps and even menus for local restaurants, from their mobile phone.

The St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown’s TMABF (To Make a Better Future) finished second, and S4 Coders of the Mountain View Academy finished third.

In the Open Category, Rolano Nanton and Khalisa Peters, together known as ‘KNR’, won the Open Category with an app that linked clients seeking specialized or custom made programmes and apps directly to programmers.

Teams ‘WE ARE HEER’ and ‘First Contact’ finished second and third respectively.

Right: NUSS Conquerors 2, winner of the Secondary Schools Idea category.

Nanton and Peters, both second year students at the Division of Art and Sciences of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, explained that ‘KNR’ (Khalisa Peters (left) they took all of and Rolano Nanton) winner three weeks to of the Open Category. get the app put together. “There The Girls’ were a lot of sleepless nights,” Astra, winner of the Secondary Schools High School Peters said.

Mobile App category. was recognized Neither is presently pursuing careers in IT though for having the most entries in this year, from the I2 they both seem to have an the Competition. competition to the ‘icode784’ interest in technology.

The preliminaries of the competition, in keeping with It is the first time that they Competition were held from the competition’s new focus on have collaborated, and now the Millennium Development that they were successful, they Oct. 15 — 18. Director of the NTRC noted that the Goals set by the United say that there may be some competition was re-branded Nations. (DD) other collaborative efforts.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 17.

18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 19.

Regional

Drunk, Tricked and Arrested

Barbados Today’s edition of October 24, 2019 carried a story about a day in the life of Barbadian Omar Nicholls,that made for an interesting tale at the Magistrate’s Court.

The News agency reported that first, Nicholls got drunk on Wednesday 22nd October, then a woman with whom he intended to “mek little sport” left and never returned, and finally he was arrested

by police.

He was charged with trespassing on a building known as Stall No.4 in capital Bridgetown, with the intent to commit theft on October 22, 2019.

When he appeared in Court on October 24, Nicholls pleaded guilty to the offence, but told Magistrate Joy-Ann Clarke that he did not break in nor was he trying to steal anything.

Here is Barbados Today’s verbatim report of what the accused told the Magistrate: “I was in Nelson Street drinking by a bar and I get drunk. I left to go and catch a taxi, but then I saw a woman who I know and we decide to go and ‘mek lil sport’.

Normally we does do it by the stall so we went down there.

“When we get there, the door was prised open

Cops called out as being ‘fully dunce’ CITIZENS ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN have been warned: watch how you refer to your police officers!

The warning emanates from a recent matter that was brought before the Court in Trinidad and Tobago.

At least two news agencies reported that a man who dared to call the police “fully dunce”, was arrested and charged last Friday.

The reports said that PC Ramkissoon, accompanied by PCs Humphrey, Ramdeen and Villafana, was on foot patrol around 5 pm on Friday, when he saw a young man sitting in his car with his seatbelt strapped across his shoulder, but not across

his waist.

The Constable approached the man, instructed him about how, according to the law, he is required to wear the seatbelt, and then requested the man’s driving documents.

Police said the man handed over the documents and began behaving in an irate manner.

The other police officers advised and cautioned the man about his conduct, but he flew into a rage and started shouting, “All yuh police fully dunce.”

He was later taken to the Chaguanas Police Station where he was charged with disorderly behaviour and insulting language.

Students of slow learning abilities were often made to wear a ‘dunce cap’.

The man was granted station bail and is expected to appear before a Chaguanas magistrate on Tuesday. (Source: Trinidad Guardian and LOOP New)

Teachers’ 1975 March in context (a reprint) reign, headed the new Women’s Desk before taking part in the NDP’s the Teachers College, others lost their Government as Minister of Education employment period, while still others for ten years 1989-1999. Now in the suffered punitive transfer, kidneytwilight of her life, she suffers from patient, Decent Henry among the last physical illness, but moreso from the category. mental scars of brutal ULP regime.

Yvonne Francis-Gibson however With Alexis Griffith of Buccament, had been the most celebrated trophy. it was slightly different from Yvonne She was originally sent to jail in who had to give up her Justice of Calliaqua where a man on a rape Peace stamps. He continued as a JP charge, was placed outside to make for a further 20 months or so, until he room for Yvonne inside. had completed his stint as a member I took some stuff to make life more of the PSC under the ULP bearable, but the police rejected the Government. Then he suffered the sheet and blanket which were rated same fate after the expiration of his particularly dangerous if she became office as a member of PSC. suicidal facing that heinous crime of The foregoing affords an illustration taking part in a peaceful march! After of the unrelenting pursuit of that ordeal, a radicalised Yvonne as a victimisation by the current regime member of the DFM, joined the which simply has to stop, or be Yulimo to form the UPM which was stopped, if SVG is to make progress.” actually born in her own home in It is most urgent that the teachers Clare Valley. continue the “1975 March”, and let not Yvonne then enlisted in the the country drift or be pushed into a mushrooming NDP and, during their dictatorship.

Continued from Page 8.

so I ease through the space and went in. When she get in she realize she didn’t have any condoms so she tell me she coming back in five minutes.

“I decided to lay down on the ground till she come back, but then I see some lights spotting on me. The police even had to lift me up cause I was hurt. I didn’t go to steal.”

“Your story was interesting, but at the end of the day, you did

something wrong. Do you think the owner wanted you in, her stall doing your business?” the magistrate asked him.

“If you can’t control your drinking, ease up off the alcohol.”

After the accused begged not to be sent to prison, the magistrate placed him on a fourmonth bond to keep the peace. (Source: Barbados Today)

One drink leads to another, and another and other things.

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20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Apologise or … !!!

Dear George, MY GIRLFRIEND CAME TO MY WORK PLACE and messed things up for me. My boss has been flirting with me for the past six months. She never asked if I had someone special, and I never volunteered that information. She treated me ‘real nice’, including giving me a raise twice in six months.

But the whole coop got mashed up when my girlfriend visited my workplace and made a lot of noise, accusing me of being involved with another girl.

My boss called me into her office and asked me what the commotion was about, and I told her about my girlfriend. I was quickly laid off, and to this day have not worked at all.

My girlfriend never apologised for what she did, and I do not know if I can ever forgive her. I gave her an ultimatum: apologise or I leave.

Upset Dear Upset, What makes you think you got fired because your boss felt you were holding out on her?

Your lack of commitment is cause for concern, and you need to recommit to your relationship if at all you are serious about it. Use this experience to start afresh, and a sincere apology to your girlfriend would be a good place to begin.

George

Unsatisfied wife Dear George, MY WIFE COMPLAINS for everything: I am not bringing home enough money, although she knows I only work on availability; I am spending too much time with my friends; and the best one for her, is I am not satisfying her in bed.

When I asked her how long she knew I was not satisfying her in bed, she admitted, “From day one, but I never wanted to hurt your feelings.” I was appalled.

I am doing everything to please her; apparently nothing is good enough for her. I do not know what else to do.

Yesterday she laid it out bare: If I don’t step up to the plate as a real man, she would have to find her satisfaction elsewhere.

George, I believe she is seeing somebody else, but I do not have any proof. She refuses to put her cell phone down.

Once when she forgot, I tried to answer, and she almost cut my head off.

I am no longer happy in this marriage. I told her that, and she said I could leave anytime.

I sense that is what she wants me to do, but I do not want to play into her hands. We do not have children, and we are both in our 30s. I need to know what my next move should be.

Unhappy Dear Unhappy, It cannot be flattering to hear your wife admit

that she never got the sexual satisfaction you thought she was having, since the first day of your marriage. Sharing that with you back then could have given you an opportunity to up your game or to get the necessary help. You need to ask her what it is she wants in terms of sexual satisfaction.

The other issues (work, etc.) could be a smoke screen and a convenient cover for a larger problem.

If it is a fact that you have been spending too much time with your friends, then you should

know what needs to be done. However, there is nothing much you can do about your work situation in the immediate.

If, after you have made attempts to address all of her concerns, and there is no change in her attitude, then you need to encourage her to accompany you to see a counsellor, where she can safely talk about what is really bugging her.

George

Why wait?

Dear George, WOULD YOU STAY WITH A WOMAN who told you to your face that “all men are dogs?” Well, my woman said that to me, and she is not willing to take it back.

I asked her why would she want to get involved with a dog, and she said it’s because better cannot be done. As a matter of fact, when I told her I did not feel comfortable with her characterization of me and men on a whole, she responded with, “That’s just the way it is.”

I am not ok with it this rift and, given her stubbornness, I’m ready to leave the relationship; but I’m afraid she is going to say she was right about us men all along. Your perspective please.

Contemplating Dear Contemplating, Your girlfriend’s world view of men as “dogs” is certainly not a flattering one, and as long as she holds on to that view, she will rob herself of the chance to get the best out of you.

As long as she expects you to mess up and eventually fail in your bid to have a meaningful relationship with her, you will experience nothing but frustration. The end result? There’s nothing to keep you two together. Get out now!!

George

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20) Organize your house and be sure to include the whole family in the projects you have set out to do. You will find that unfinished projects at home will be most satisfying. Not everything you hear will be legitimate.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) You need a change and you need to earn more cash. You won't get the reaction you want from your mate this week.

Attend seminars that will bring you in contact with the right people. Someone around you may not be trustworthy.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) Emotional matters may not be easy for you to handle. Listen to the advice given by others. Get down to business and do the work yourself. Do something that will be stimulating and creative.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may have a problem at work with a female coworker. There might be one who is quite willing to take the credit for your work. Try to be patient and understanding.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't try to hide your true feelings from your mate. Make money using your ingenuity and creative talent. Go after your goals and don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Go out with friends.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will have a tendency to put on pounds. You won't have much time for your mate this week. Good friends will give you honest answers. Opportunities for romance will develop through activities with large groups.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Try not to hesitate; act on your initial instincts. Things are looking up. Make career changes that may increase your income. You can learn from those who have had similar experiences.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Investments that deal with property will pay off but could cause conflict with some family members. Channel your energy into decorating or household chores. Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Your hypnotic eyes will capture the hearts of those who interest you. Be honest in your communication and don't lose your cool if someone backs you into a corner.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You will have excellent ideas for changing or renovating your home. You need some excitement in your life, and meeting new people in exotic destinations will certainly satisfy your desires.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don't hesitate to come right out and ask for the pertinent information. Your interest in religion and philosophy may lead you to specific destinations. You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate's whims.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will have problems with coworkers if you are too extreme about doing things perfectly. Beware of colleagues who don't have your best interests in mind.

Relationships have not been the best for you lately and it's left you somewhat gun shy.

ACROSS 1. Mesh ensnares 5. Covering on a scrape 9. Daycare enrollee 12. Proclaim 13. Extract (a tooth) 14. _ League, group that contains 15-Across 15. Connecticut university 16. Far from iincomplete 17. Quick snooze 18. Slippery fish 20. Hardly fresh 22. Crooner Dean 25. Cigar residue 26. Styled after: 2 wds 27. Fence pole 29. Strike callers 33. City pests 35. See 58- Across 36. Hotel-bathroom freebie 37. Leg joint 38. Tiny cut 40. “_ learned my lesson!”

41. Deep respect 43. Jinxed 45. Sports stadium 48. Yet 49. U.S. flag color 50. Narrow branch 54. “_ is life!”

57. Ale dispenser 58. With 35-Across, emerge 59. Faithful 60. Scheming 61. Aspire (to) 62. Appear DOWN 1.Vetoing vote 2. Gabor of TV 3. Withstand 4. Gentle-tempered

5. Where the wealthy get healthy?

6. Little lion 7. Both halves 8. Declare holy 9. Rocking Turner 10. Grape shape 11. Sort; kind 19. Rim of a cup 21. So 22. Gospel writer 23. Ladd of old movies 24. Lariat loop 25. Storage area under a roof 28. Center star 30. Wetness 31. Apply asphalt to

32. Drove too fast 34. Oscar winner Penn 39. Irish tavern 42. Keep an eye on 44. Oxidizes 45. Clumsy ships 46. Film spool

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 , 2019. 21.

47. Keyed up 51. Try to charm 52. Naughty 9Across 53. “Golly” 55. Entry signal 56. Dress bottom

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Do not be crippled by fear and indifference TO SOME DEGREE, many of us are aware of the seeming indifference of those citizens who, because of their standing, ought to be looking out for the welfare of the whole society. This attitude will

negatively impact our capacity to get the support we will need from those folks in the U.K and Europe, in relation to the issue of reparations we are now considering.

Our Prime Minister

Ralph Gonsalves has been in recent years, one of the prominent voices in the cases for reparations from Britain for the injustices our forebears suffered during the period of their enslavement. He

even went as far as to quantify the value of the settlement, suggesting that it should be in the trillions of dollars in today’s money.

Dr. Gonsalves and some others here in St.

Vincent and the Grenadines and in the wider Caribbean, who are identified as “the progressives”, have been saying that our not having realized the level of development and the standard of living which we ought to have by now, is to be blamed primarily on the British who left us with nothing to work with.

A dispassionate examination of the fact shows a different picture, telling a different story.

While it is true that when the British effected the abolition of slavery, they did not give any consideration to the slaves who had provided the labour for the wealth the estates had generated, though they compensated the landowners for their “loss of business”; but between 1838 and 1951, they had actively facilitated the maintenance of the infrastructure vital to the welfare of the society.

The financing of vital projects came from the British Treasury. So because of this attention to infrastructure, the people had reasonably good access to farm lands, and their farming activity had been the pillar of support producing good healthy food and animals.

The advent of the Banana Industry in the mid-1950s, gave a tremendous economic boost to the community, and the positive impact has been well documented. In fact, a predominant factor in the obvious economic stagnancy now crippling us, has been the treacherous betrayal by the ULP headed by Dr. Gonsalves, relative to our Agriculture in general and the Banana Industry in particular.

I remember clearly, that in 2004, there was held at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, what they called an International Banana Conference, at which pronouncements were made of measures which were soon going to be effected to improve the quality of the fruit we shipped to the U.K. market. The farming communities were happy, for to them, it

represented evidence, that the Dr. Gonsalves ULP government was following up on the election promises they had made.

When one considers that there has been no evidence, that any significant attempt had been made, to put in place those arrangements which had been decided at the Conference, one is induced to accept the view, that the whole exercise had been a “political scam”. That view is made more difficult to resist, when one considers how the largest organization of farmers, the St. Vincent Banana Growers’ Association, was “licked —up” and neutralized. The testimony of the usefulness of that organization has been well documented.

I am still baffled, as to what could have prompted an organization like WINFA, to be involved in such treachery against farmers of the Windward Islands!

WINBAN had been for years respected in World Banana Trade. Was there some sort of “screwingup” brought about because of the fact that WINFA is/was led by Renwick Rose who had been the leader of the ODD in 2001?

I am here again lamenting/documenting the indifference of the illustrious Chamber of Industry and Commerce of SVG, with respect to the issues relating to our loss of trade in Bananas.

It is indisputable that when the Banana Industry earned good income, the Merchants prospered. Today, they are not doing half as well as they did in the days of Banana. The Chamber is advised to take a look at itself to see how it can use its resources, skills and experience for the advancement of our country.

The same appeal is made to the professionals, leaders of Organizations, and all conscious citizens.

The country needs your input now; do not be neutralized by fear and indifference. We need change.

LeRoy Providence

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23. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

„I am the best person to run Football,‰ Trimmingham AS THE FOUR PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES head into the final week of campaigning ahead of the 23rd November elections of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), Raymond Trimmingham feels that he is the best person to steer the national football ship.

Trimmingham, who vies for the top position against the likes of Carl Dickson, Patrick Horne and the incumbent Marvin Fraser, holds the view that, given his attributes, affiliates have no other choice but to elect him ahead of the others.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN, Trimmingham advanced, “I am the most suitable, rounded, experienced and balanced person for the presidency in the upcoming election… I have served National Football as a VicePresident, as General Secretary, Administrative Executive, and have been the President of the BESCO Pastures Club for the past 28 years, and I am one of two persons from the 1977 to 1986 era of national players who is still involved in Football.”

Trimmingham went for the jugular, declaring that he believes the incumbent, Fraser, needs to be unseated, as there are some fundamental errors being committed in the administration of the sport here.

He thumbed that under the current Fraser led Executive, “you have administrative problems; right now; it

is alleged that you have a split administration… You have decision being made outside the Executive.”

Trimmingham proffered, “If you are going to manage Football, and your agenda is different from the Football product itself, you will end up in a lot of the problems that we are having now.”

Also, the presidential candidate took a swipe at Fraser’s personal pet promotional slogan, ‘Football is taking over’.

“How can you say ‘Football is taking over,’ and when you go to the clubs, they are not better off?” he questioned.

As far as his platform is concerned, Trimmingham described it as being rooted in the drive for ‘Sustainable Development and Capacity Building for clubs and leagues’.

“Clubs will be the beneficiaries of $40,000 annually… . All training equipment, including kits, will be provided for all clubs in all of the divisions, with an administrative staff provided to serve the clubs and leagues, separate from the staff of the Secretariat of the SVGFF,” Trimmingham added to substantiate his platform.

Trimmingham noted that at present, clubs struggle to meet their expenses as it relates to participation in the National Club Championships.

And further to ensuring clubs’ sustainability, he advanced,

“Additionally, 10% of the gate receipts from international matches will be distributed among the clubs, Plus, all clubs will have a paid coach, and I will ensure that all clubs and leagues are exposed to FIFA, CONCACAF and CFU Meetings and Congresses, so that they can build capacity at that level , not just for Executive Members only.”

Trimmingham lamenting players at the senior national level are still “scrunting” for football shoes and meals.

Addressing this need, he promised that when he is elected as President, these players will be employed in the schools, thereby serving the dual purpose of helping in the development

Raymond Trimmingham of the sport and providing some employment for the players.

“My ambition as the next President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, is to make Football ‘the game of the people’ again,” Trimmingham concluded.

Top footballers/officials rewarded EDITOR’S NOTE: Notwithstanding the fact that this Newspaper was not invited to the SVGFF’s Awards and Prize-Giving Ceremony for its National Club Championships, we are pleased to offer the following report, in keeping with our commitment to our readers, and to assist in whatever way we can to advance sports in this country.

The top performers in the 2018/2019 National Club Championships were last week Wednesday evening rewarded, when the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) staged its Awards and Prize-Giving Ceremony at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown.

Chavel Cunningham of Premier Division champions BESCO Pastures was named the Male Footballer of the Year, the Senior Men’s Player of the Year and the Best Forward.

Cunningham’s team mate, Lemus Christopher, copped

the Best Goal-Keeper title, while Jamol Yorke of Sion Hill was adjudged the Best Defender.

Diel Spring of North Leeward Predators was named the Best Midfielder.

System Three’s Oryan Velox was named the Youth Male Player of the Year, and North Leeward’s Areka Hooper was the Youth Female Player of the Year.

Bishon Williams of North Leeward Predators secured the Coach of the Year accolade, and Collin Bonadie of BESCO Pastures, the Manager of the Year.

Meanwhile, CamdoniaJamol Yorke- Best Chelsea’s Chrislyn Browne Defender. was adjudged the Senior Female Player of the Year were the top four teams, and the Female Footballer of in the Premier, First the Year.

Division, Second Among the officials, Moeth Moeth Gaymes - Official Chavel Cunningham holds one of his Division, Women’s Gaymes was voted Official of of the Year.

Division, as well as the three awards. the Year; Most Promising Under-13 and Under-14 Official — Elron Lewis, and Physical Divisions.

St Vincent and the Grenadines Match Commissioner of the The evening’s ceremony was Education and Sports- Nelson Football Federation- Marvin Year — Germano Douglas.

Hillocks, and President of the Fraser. addressed by Director of Also rewarded with trophies

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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Schools Table Tennis wraps up THE ST. VINCENT GRAMMAR SCHOOL and the Girls’ High School are respectively the 2019 Boys and Girls Team Champions of Secondary Schools Table Tennis here.

The championship concluded earlier this week at the Old Anglican School Building, Kingstown, with the finals in both categories.

In the Boys Teams finals, Grammar School defeated the St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua 3 — 0: Michel Creese beat Tyion 11/6, 11/3; Akeil De Roche beat Rio Connell 11/3, 11/3, and Antwan Tannis beat Che’ Connell 11/9, 11/7.

The Girls’ High School, meanwhile, defeated the Bequia Community High School 2 — 1. Delecia Michael registered Bequia’s only match victory when she defeated the Kiarra Hazell 11/6, 11/2.

Victories for the Girls’ High School were registered by: Leah Cumberbatch over

Derecia Michael, 11/3.

11/7, Karissa Moses over Javisha Bentick, 11/9, 11/9, and Leah Cumberbatch beat Delecia Michael 11/6, 4/11, and 11/7.

In the singles categories, Vedel Charles of the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown defeated Derecia Michael of the Bequia Community High School 11/5, 8/11 11/8, to capture the Secondary Open Singles Girls title.

In the Secondary Open Singles for Boys, featuring finalists from the Grammar School, Michel Creese dethroned the defending champion Caleb Howard, beating him 7/11, 11/7, 11/8, 11/9.

In the Primary Schools Open Singles for Girls, Camella Harry of Lower Bay Primary School INC took the title when she beat Roshini Samuel of the Layou Government School, 11/7, 11/5.

In the Primary Schools Open Singles for

The Girls’ High School - Secondary School Girls Champions.

L-R: Vedel Charles - Secondary Schools Girls Champion and Michel Creese Secondary Schools Boys Singles Champion.

L-R: Camella Harry - Primary School Girls Champion and Pareeze Cudjoe - Primary Schools Boys Champion.

Boys, an all Bequia affair, Pareeze Cudjoe of Lower Bay Primary School INC beat Glenrick

SVG Grammar School - Secondary School Boys Champions.

Hazell of the Paget Farm Government School, 11/9 11/7.

Each of the singles champions was voted MVP in their respective

categories.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Grenada retains OECS Swim Title: SVG in Third place

Members of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team celebrate their improved showing.

Right: Five in a row winners - Grenada.

HOST ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES finished third behind Grenada and St Lucia in that order, when the 2019 OECS Swim

Championships concluded last Sunday at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre at Ratho Mill.

But there was some joy for the home team, since they bettered their fourth position from 2018.

St Vincent and the Grenadines ended on 1116 points, with the Males accounting for 527 points and the Females 589. The total was a mere 5.5 points behind St. Lucia on 121.5 points, split 641 for the Males and 480.5 for the Females.

Grenada, though, were clear winners with 1249 points, and in the process registered their fifth straight lien on the title. The Grenadian Males garnered 660 of those points and the Females 589.

Fourth was Antigua and Barbuda (794 points — 348 Males and 446 Females, slipping from their second

place in 2018. St. Kitts and Nevis occupied the fifth spot with 57.5 points earned by their Female team. They did not enter a Male team.

Additionally, St Vincent and the Grenadines collected three individual awards and established sixteen new records.

The individual awards L-R: Olivia Jack dominated in the came via Eltonique 18 and Over class. and Eltonique Leonard in the Females Leonard- Champ among the 8 and Under with 61 Females 8 and Under. points; Zariel Nelson in the Females 9-10 with (84 points) and Zakary 60 points; and Canada-based Gresham (91 points), the Olivia Jack, females 18 and Females and Males 13- 14 age Over with a whopping 97 group champions, respectively. points.

And St Lucia secured four Jack was responsible for individual titles. Antoine nine of the new records Destang took the Male 8 and established; Leonard Under title as he tallied 72 accounted for four, Nelson two points, and Mikaili and Shane Cadogan reset one Charlemagne put together 89 record. points to win the Females 15 Champions Grenada to 17. Jayham Smith-Odlum dominated with five individual amassed 88 points to take the awards: Jaaziel Francis- Males Male 15 to 17 and Jean Luc 8 and Under with 63 points; Zephir, the Male 18 and over, Sara Dowden- Females 11 to with 86 points to his name.

12 with 68.5 points; Nathan It was the 29th hosting of Fletcher - 87 points - Males 11 the Sub-regional Swimming to 12 champ; Kimberley Ince Championships.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 25.

Sports

Matters to contend THE WEST INDIES PLAYERS in Lucknow, the adopted home of the Afghanis tans, have other issues to face than the cricket. Those are environmental factors.

The bug invasion they had to deal with in the third One day International forced players to wear masks. Thursday’s first T/20 was another challenge. The squad will shrug off any obstacles and will be inspired by their triumph in that series.

If they maintain that pattern for the T/20s, it provides a boost for the one off Test. As lowly as the victories may appear, given the West Indies record, it is good that they are not losing.

There is the T’20 World Cup scheduled for Australia in a year. Teams are finetuning preparations, and this outing serves as a platform for the West Indies.

The scales are balancing in the sporting arena, and no one can afford to take anyone for granted.

Outfits have to stay ahead, think clearly and be prepared for any events.

The impact of climate change is being felt, and administrators, organisers, and all stakeholders have to adjust to cater for everyone’s safety.

The masks are examples. Water breaks, or application of environmentally suitable measures are becoming part of the sporting routine.

Players have to ensure they couldn’t suffer from dehydration. The balance is required so that there is no over-indulgence. The potential is also there for someone to drown themselves with unnecessary intake. That occasion of a midnight marathon in Qatar recently sheds light on conditions that will surround the 2022 World Cup. Even the introduction to that episode, established years ago, seems set to provide its intrigue.

That’s some way off, and teams are focussed on the immediate to short term. The Gold Cup will be a prelude to World Cup qualification, but the ongoing activity will set the agenda for the later drama.

One has to aware of the situation at hand.

There is the horizon which shapes itself in natural stages. It provides an outlook of what the situation can be. But one can only make a projection to within certain limits. No one has any monopoly on what might be. Those are areas outside the individual’s realm.

Things have ways of unfurling in circumstances bordering mysterious. When they occur, you have to find means of coping. It serves no purpose wallowing in self-pity or bemoaning the loss of any treasure. Even the worst of times can turn out to be the best of times.

No one knows how the table turns. Once you are Vincentian, you will find ways pf displaying your patriotism. That will also vary. The template that defines a Vincentian is still being remodelled.

SVGCA holds U15 Camp THE SVG UNDER15 CRICKET training squad got some valuable match practice during a camp held last weekend.

This, as the team intensified its preparation for the Windward Islands Youth Tournament, to be held in Dominica next month.

The camp, held at the Cumberland Playing Field, was described by Head Coach Bertam Stapleton as being timely and a lot more than a usual training session.

According to Stapleton, the camp objectives were met.

“The camp afforded players the opportunity to: understand each other better; be exposed to new challenges and situations; increase selfconfidence, promote team

Players got valuable match practice during the camp.

Right: Bertram Stapleton, Head Coach, was satisfied that the camp served its purpose. bonding, enhance problem solving and skills; and expose players to gain experience while playing in different conditions,” Stapleton elaborated.

The seventeen players were involved in a match on Saturday and

matches scenarios on Sunday. The players were also exposed to in house sessions mainly dealing with basic knowledge of the laws of the games, match scenarios, etc.

Assistant Coach Kenroy Martin, Manager

Samuel Holder, DO/TDO Ian Allen and Dyke Cato also assisted in the camp.

I.B.A. ALLEN

SVG Masters T20 Round-up AFTER A ONE-WEEK BREAK to accommodate the staging of the 2019 Independence International Masters T20 Tournament, matches in the SVG Masters 20/20 Cricket Competition resumed last weekend with two matches.

At Sion Hill Playing Field, Sion Hill defeated General

Hardware Pastures by 7 wickets, in a match reduced to 15 overs because of rain. Scores: Pastures 81 all out in 14.4 overs - Deptor Culzac 41, Felix Greaves took 3 for 5, Gary Matthias 2 for 0, Joseph Medford 2 for 9.; Sion Hill 85 for 3 off 12.1 overs - Conrad Jack 23.

At Park Hill, A R & G Trucking P’tani

Masters defeated Digicel Cato’s Heavy Equipment Glamorgan Masters by 20 runs. Scores: P’tani Masters 130 for 7 off 20 overs - Orlando Mofford 37, Vibert Horne 31, Dexter Small took 3 for 8; Glamorgan Masters 110 off 19.5 overs - Clyde Deptor Culzac, playing Mofford 36, Augustus for Pastures Masters, Mofford 21. Adolphous had the weekend’s Campbell took 3 for 14. highest individual score After the sixth round (41). of matches, North East and RSVG Police are leading in their respective zones.

North East leads Zone HARD HITTERS, SMASHERS, Bruce Law Chambers Smashers A with 20 points, SIMPLE BOYS were in winners’ row defeated Dr Thomas Injectors by 4 followed by A R & G when the National Lotteries Authority wickets. Scores: Injectors 62 in 14.4 Trucking Ptani Masters TBPO T20 Softball Cricket overs - Ronrick Peters 2 for 5; Competition continued last weekend at Smashers - 68 for 8 in 8.3 overs - Ruel (16 points) and North Windward (12 points). the Dauphnie Playing Field.

Browne 29, Raffique Jobe 3 for 16.

In Zone B, RSVG In a game reduced to 17 overs due Gairy Construction Simple Boys Police are out front on 18 to rain, Hard Hitters beat Country beat Fairban United Spartans by 35 Meet Town Out Ah Trouble runs. Scores: Simple Boys 136 for 8 in points, followed by Memorial Funeral Home (CMTOAT) by 4 wickets. Scores: 17 overs - Nicos Davis 58, Kemron North Leeward Masters CMTOAT 85 for 8 in 17 overs - Richie John 37, Rokeem Roberts 4 for 20; Richards 25 not out, Sachski weeks 22, Spartans 101 for 8 in 17 overs - Eldon (14 points) and Mustique Company Masters (12 Davian Barnum 21, Sheldon Baptiste Morris 2 for11, Keneal Skinner 2 for 2 for 22; Hard Hitters 92 for 6 in 15.4 30. points from 3 matches). overs - Kerwin Williams 25, Salene George 20, Alwayne Quashie 4 for 13. I.B.A.ALLEN I.B.A.ALLEN

TBPO T20 continues

26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019. 27.

Classifieds IN MEMORIAM

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS FOR SALE Stove - $500 Fridge -$700 3-piece couch - $500 Study table - $300 Contact: 454-4739 FOR RENT 2 bedroom furnished apartment at Belair - Short Term A/C bedroom Parking available Tel: 454-4739

FOR RENT Single and double room, furnished, student-ready apartment for rent in Belair.

Call 456-2293 or 454-3217

In loving memory of BERYL E. FRASER of New Montrose who departed this life 11th November, 2011.

“We begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived, And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget”.

Sadly missed by your daughter, grandchildren, relatives and friends.

Continue to rest in peace.

ETHELIN QUASHIE St. Bethel Baptist Church Sunday, November 10th, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Fitzhughes Cemetery

MERRY ALORDIS CUNNINGHAM /CHARLES Bethel Gospel Assembly Church Georgetown Saturday, 9th November, 2019 Viewing: 1:30 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

SIMON CUMBERBATCH Church of God World Wide Mission Sunday, November 10,2019 Service: 2:00 p.m.

HARRY OSWALD BUTCHER Church of Nazarene, Arnos Vale Saturday, 9th November, 2019 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

CAROLINE QUASHIE St. Matthias Anglican Church Ashton Union Island Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Ashton Cemetery, Union Island

VERNON ALEXANDER MOORE Gorse Apostolic Faith Mission, Byera Saturday, November 16th,2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Byera Cemetery

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 15, 2019

VOLUME 113, No.42.

A.I. REAL ESTATE Brighton 8,070 sq.ft @ $14.00 p.s.f. - $112,980.00 - BB296 Ruthland Vale 9,367 sq.ft @ 12.00 p.s.f.

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www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

CAFÉ SOLEIL NOT SO ÂSUNNYÊ, WORKERS ALLEGE

WORKERS AT CAFÉ SOLEIL, a restaurant and bar located in the Blue Lagoon Hotel and Marina complex at Cannash, are embroiled in a dispute with management.

Indications are that the workers have complained in writing to management, about a number of concerns that they have. The complaint was submitted in writing, via email, and advanced on the workers’ behalf by their supervisor. A meeting was also requested with management in the same letter.

Among the complaints are that they: work for 8 hours a day without a break; have not received a response to numerous requests for them to cook their meals since they are not provided with meals; have not received their credit card tips; are not allowed to sit even during slow periods; have to endure an unbearably hot kitchen making it uncomfortable to work; have had the only table in the kitchen on which they would write removed; do not receive holiday pay, stipulated wages for Sundays and overtime; are not respected or appreciated by management.

If the chronology as THE VINCENTIAN understands it, is what

obtained, a number of workers received letters of dismissal subsequent to management’s receipt of the complaints in writing, and management simply ignored the workers’ request for a meeting.

Against this backdrop, the workers, according to one source, decided to go on a twoday strike.

One letter of dismissal to which THE VINCENTIAN was made privy, was dated November 11, 2019 and reference a “new Café Soleil is structure” in which “your (worker) services complex. will no longer be required.”

This is a common practice by employers who, under the guise of introducing new systems and staff adjustments, terminated the service of workers which, in the circumstance amounts to a practice referred to as redundancy, and which is not

located on the ground floor of this section of the Blue Lagoon/Marina effectively, and by law, the same as ‘firing’ a worker.

The practice is, though, that, once a position becomes redundant for reasons of staff adjustments/restructuring, that position cannot be filled before a certain amount of time has elapsed.

As of Thursday, it was not clear how

the impasse had panned out. Efforts to contact the restaurant turned up responses from persons who could not address the issue.

Café Soleil is a subsidiary of Caribbean Lifestyles of which Mrs Eloise Gonsalves, wife of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, is a principal.

PARROT FISH HARVESTING TO BE BANNED

The parrot fish is an important player in sustaining fish diversity in the Caribbean.

FOLLOWING ON A FULL BAN on hunting turtles here, Vincentians can expect by December 01, 2019, a ban on harvesting parrot fish and shark fin fishing.

Word of this action came from Hon. Saboto Caesar, the island’s Minister of Fisheries.

He announced: “This year, we celebrate, as leaders in conservation globally, our achievements in protecting turtles, preventing the illegal trade of the Union Island Gecko, and soon a ban on harvesting of the parrot fish and on shark fin fishing.”

The parrot fish is important

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

to the biodiversity of our islands, since it is able to produce up to 700 lbs of sand each year through its digestion of algae and dead coral.

The largest parrot fish are the males, and unfortunately also the ones most targeted by spearfishing. Fishing that targets the biggest fish, therefore, takes the males and makes it hard for the species to reproduce.

While it is noted that shark fin fishing is not commonplace among fisherfolk and leisure fishers here, this country is committed to the global conservation efforts

promoted by the United Nations.

The practice of shark fin fishing almost always involves the catching of the shark, the removal of its fin and disposal of the remains back into the sea.

The appetite for shark fin soup in places like Japan, has played a major role in shark overfishing, thereby threatening the shark population across the globe.

Conservationists say shark fin fishing is an unsustainable use of an important marine resource.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.