Vin pages 23 03 18 e reader for web

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

MARCH 23, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.12

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Left: A handshake between PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Minister Julian Juarez Cadenas, of Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, signals that the project has been signed, sealed and delivered.

The Mexico-SVG Bridge (i.e. the reconstructed Cumberland Bridge) is the longest bridge in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

BRIDGE AT SPRING VILLAGE OPENED

water associated with flows down the ANOTHER BRIDGE AMONG Cumberland river.

MANY which warranted According to Harris, rehabilitation/ the abutments used to reconstruction following hold up the bridge are the passage of the trough buried three to six feet system in 2013, was deep in pyroclastic officially handed over to material, and the beams the government and used are pre-tension people of this country last beams which conform to Tuesday. the American Association The bridge, dubbed of State and Highway the ‘Mexico-SVG Bridge’, Transportation Officials commonly referred to as (AASHTO) standards, the Cumberland Bridge, the benchmark for bridge and which was destroyed designs throughout the in 2013, is now rebuilt, world. ready for use and, The pre-tension beams according to those who were designed by the worked on the project, contractors and boasts a number of firsts. constructed locally.

According to Cecil Rameshwar Mahabir, Harris, Senior Engineer Managing Director, in the Ministry of Trinidad Contractors Ltd Transport and Work, it is — the contractors — the longest bridge in the explained that the country, spanning some company he represents is 82 feet, and it is the first well into the area of such design and designing and building construction contract pre-tension beams. awarded.

This way, the project The obvious feature of saves time and money. the new piece of “We believe the work infrastructure is that it to be of high standard; it now allows for freeis an improvement to the flowing two-way traffic steel beams as was access, and it boasts a suggested by the client,” pedestrian sidewalk.

Mahabir said.

The design and construction were done to Continued on Page 3. withstand the volumes of

by DAYLE DASILVA

MEET THE CONTESTANTS IN THE 2018 MISS SVG PAGEANT L-R: Criscione Morgan (Miss Mustique Company Ltd.), Shellisa Nanton (Miss Lotto), Cameisha Foster (Miss Vincentian Chocolate), Azanie Lavia (Miss GECCU), Morrissia Williams (Miss Massy Stores SVG Ltd.), Nazira Graham (Miss Metrocint General Insurance Company Ltd.) and Solange Fernandez (Miss Flow).

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2. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

KCCU: SIXTY and Beyond Right: Representatives of other Credit Unions, invited guests and members of the KCCU, at last Tuesday’s launch of the KCCU 60th Anniversary celebrations.

UNDER THE THEME ‘SIXTY and Beyond’, the Kingstown Co-Operative Credit Union (KCCU) kicked off the celebration of its 60th Anniversary with a press conference held at its Headquarters on Granby Street in Kingstown, Tuesday last.

In an enhancement of the celebratory atmosphere, original songs in several genres and describing the benefits of the Credit Union filled the air and ushered in the launch of two new Initiatives at this diamond encrusted engagement Master of Ceremonies and CEO of the Credit Union Mr Clement Lynch introduced members of the Head Table, they were The Hon Frederick Stephenson, Minister of National Mobilization, Social Development, The Family, Persons with Disabilities and Youth; and President of the Credit Union Sis. Cynthia Hope-Browne.

In his opening remarks, CEO Lynch stated that the Credit Union was founded by Thomas Saunders (father of esteemed Justice Adrian Saunders, soon to be President of the CCJ), upon his return from visits to Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago in 1957. After a meeting held at the Peace Memorial Hall on October 3rd 1957, the KCCU was born and was later registered in April 1958.

The First executive comprised Thomas Saunders, Jerome Burke Snr, Sir David Jack, Reynold Rose, Charles Anderson, Bertram Arthur, and Leroy Adams.

One of the new

Sis Cynthia HopeBrowne - President of the Credit Union – addressing the gathering.

Clement Lynch, CEO/KCCU, gave a historical overview of the Credit Union.

Initiatives unfolded was the ‘Diamond Wheels’ — an Auto Loan Scheme in which members are afforded a six percent interest rate, no repayment for the first sixty days, and six years to repay the loan.

The other is a raffle, with the grand prize being a brand new Suzuki Swift motor vehicle.

The KCCU boasts a membership of twenty thousand (20,000) and unaudited Assets of one hundred million EC dollars (EC$100,000,000).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 3.

News 3 Property tax defaulters to be targeted IN ADDITION TO DEFAULTERS of other forms of taxes, Comptroller of the Inland Revenue Kelvin Pompey has indicated that individuals in default of property taxes will also be dealt with accordingly.

In a recent ‘one-on-one’ with THE VINCENTIAN, Pompey admitted that the non-compliance of individuals with respect to property tax

was an area of concern.

In terms of compliance for payment of property tax, the Inland Revenue Department’s (IRD) top man revealed that collections have been made on only about 29 percent of the total number of taxable properties.

And since the implementation of a new tax system some five years ago,

some EC$14 million has been accumulated in property taxes owing to the government.

“And we think that is unacceptable,” the Comptroller said, adding that the time had come for the IRD to begin to levy on some properties.

“We believe that we will have to levy on some properties because there are some people who do not pay property taxes, and we believe it is because people think the amount to pay is so small,” Pompey explained.

Kelvin Pompey, Comptroller of Inland Revenue, has issued an early warning that defaulters on Property Tax will not escape action by his Department.

The average payment on property tax amounts to EC$192, some may be higher or lower, he said.

Pompey also told THE VINCENTIAN that his staff has been looking at the issue and at the corresponding

legislation that empowers the IRD to take action for nonpayment.

The three-month tax amnesty which ends May 15 has been extended to individuals in default of property tax payments. (DD)

Alert level reduced to ‘Yellow’ Bridge at Spring Village opened UP TO WEDNESDAY, the alert level as it relates to the activities associated with ‘Kick em Jenny’, has been reduced (back) to Yellow.

This means that the seismicity or the fumarolic activity are above the historical level, or other unusual activity has been observed.

The alert level was raised earlier this month following increased (recorded) activity coming from the submarine volcano located just five miles north of Grenada.

Michelle Forbes, Director of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), told THE VINCENTIAN in an interview, that although there has been a reduction in the alert level, it is likely that the advisory issued declaring a 5km/3.1-mile exclusion zone for marine craft would still be in effect.

The volcano has been showing signs of constant

Michelle Forbes, Director of NEMO confirmed a reduction in the alert status surrounding activity at ‘Kick em’ Jenny’. activity for decades, with heightened levels of activity recorded recently.

A colour coded alert level system was implemented, ranging from level Green, which means activity is quiet, to Red — eruption may begin, or already is in progress. (DD)

Senator Julian Francis, Minister of Transports and Works, acknowledged that there was much work to be done in North Leeward.

Continued from Front page.

The opening of the bridge in Spring Village was just one of

the many that had already been completed, about to begin, or in the pipelines to be done.

Minister of Transport and Works, Senator Julian Francis explained that the number is between 40 and 50.

Since 2010, adverse weather has wreaked havoc in the country, damaging sections of the country’s infrastructure and demanding ongoing rehabilitation work.

Work has already been done in Langley Park, Mount Young, Byrea and Colonaire, Francis said.

The Transport and Works Minister acknowledged that there was also some muchneeded work to be done in the North Leeward area, and requested that residents be patient.

Funding for the ‘Mexico-SVG Bridge’ was provided by the Government of Mexico. The project was implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

Minister Julian Juarez Cadenas, General Director for Cooperation in the Caribbean and Central America of the

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico, said in his address, that his country has an interest in St Vincent and the Grenadines, and the rest of the region.

For Mexico, it was a priority to deepen relations, he said, and assured that Mexico understands the consequences of climate change, and is keen on assisting the region in this area.

“We are aware that there is a lot to do,” he said.

And in thanking the Mexican Government, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves spoke of the relations between the region and Mexico, which had initially gotten underway in 1979.

The opening of the bridge was the realization of a process which began with a conversation between Gonsalves and the Mexican President, Enrique Pena Nieto.

“We work through an institution which Mexico was instrumental in bringing together. It is out of that initial engagement that we are seeing the fruits,” Gonsalves said.

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4. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Police action lands gunman behind bars and kept him under observation.

As Campbell was THE VIGILANCE of Police searching Nichols, he Constable 41 Alt raised the defendant’s Campbell, may just have shirt which hung loosely prevented a more serious over his pants, and crime. noticed an unusual bulge PC Campbell’s action in the area of his crotch. landed Shane Nichols, a He asked Nichols what 23-year-old resident of he had there, to which Campden Park, behind Nichols replied, bars for three years for “Nothing, officer.” possession of a .38 Campbell proceeded to revolver without licence, search Nichols’ crotch and seven months for and found the gun loaded having five rounds of .38 with the ammunition. He ammunition without was arrested and taken licence. The sentences to the Questelles Police will run concurrently.

Station. When cautioned, Nichols had pleaded he told the police, guilty to both charges “Officer, me ain’t no when he stood before trouble man, me real Chief Magistrate sorry.”

Rechanne Browne at the When checked by an Serious Offences Court expert, the gun was on Monday. found to be functional.

The Court heard that In mitigation, Nichols’ around 10:45 p.m. on lawyer Richard Williams February 16, PC asked the Court to Campbell was among a consider his client’s age, party of police officers and that he worked in a from the Questelles carpentry shop with his Police Station on foot father. patrol of the Campden Williams said that, Park area. During the according to his exercise, the officers information, Nichols’ entered an area called friend had asked him to ‘Plan’, and noticed a hold the gun for him group of men smoking while he (friend) ran an what appeared to be errand, and Nicholds marijuana, in the vicinity “foolishly did so.” of a shop.

Williams pointed out The lawmen that his client’s cliam approached the men and that he was not a requested searches, to troublesome person was which they complied. reflected in the fact that Campbell, however, he had no previous observed that Nichols convictions. was trying to step away, When asked whether Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

he had any recommendation in relation to sentencing, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche cited the appeal gun and ammunition case involving Azzie Bowens.

Delpleche quoted the Appeal Court as saying, ‘The Court opined that this was a very serious offence and that there were too many gun crimes in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The society was concerned about these matters, and the court had a responsibility to ensure that when persons are convicted of such offences, they are dealt with accordingly’.

Delpleche noted that firearm or ammuniction possession carries a maximum penalty of seven years in a Magistrate’s Court, with a notional sentence of

five years. He suggested that a sentence of four years be imposed in this case.

But Williams argued that the case of Azzie Bowens was very different to this one, in that Bowens was convicted at a full trial, while Nichols had pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity.

Williams suggested a sentence of about 18 months.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne agreed with Williams that both cases were different, but did not agree with the sentence he suggested.

While Browne took into account the seriousness of the charges, she also considered Nichols’ early guilty plea, age, his remorse when arrested, and the fact that he had no previous convictions.

No charges laid in cocaine seizure TWO PERSONS who were assisting the police with investigations into the seizure of a quantity of cocaine in Union Island, have been released without charges, pending further investigations.

On Monday and Tuesday this week, curious onlookers flocked the Magistrate’s Court precinct in Kingstown to see if anyone would be

taken to Court in connection with the matter which was widely published earlier this week.

THE VINCENTIAN was, however, reliably informed on Wednesday that no charges were laid.

The cocaine was reportedly found in an area at Union Island shortly after midday on Sunday.

Accused murder conspirators granted bail ONE MAN and a juvenile charged with conspiracy to murder, were each granted $30,000 bail when they returned to the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday.

Dwayne Stephens, 28 and a 15-year-old are charged with agreeing with others to commit the offence of murder on Collrise Pompey, 25 of Redemption Sharpes.

Pompey , 25, was gunned down in that community around 8am, March 2.

The two were denied bail when they initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on March 6 and 13, on the grounds that the police were investigating a much more serious offence.

However, on their return to Court on Tuesday, the prosecution made no further objections to bail.

As a result, the two were granted bail on condition that they surrender their travel documents and report to the Central Police Station three times per week between 6 a.m and 6 p.m. They were also placed on curfew from 7 a.m to 6 p.m.

Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and they are not to leave the state without permission from the Serious Offences Court or a higher court.

The matter has been adjourned to June 13.

The other person behind bars, charged with agreeing with others to commit the offence of murder on Pompey, is Mwata Henry, 25, of Redemption Sharpes. However, Henry subsequently had a murder charge added to his slate, in connection with the January 24, 2018 shooting death of Redemption Sharpes resident Jahbarry Charles. He is also facing six charges of attempted murder.

Prison officer on ammo possession charge A PRISON OFFICER stationed at Her

Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday charged with ammunition possession.

Carlos Williams is charged with having one round of .380 ammunition without licence.

Williams pleaded not guilty when he stood before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Monday.

The Biabou man was granted $2,000 bail with one surety, with reporting conditions.

The matter has been adjourned to April 5.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 5.

Fitness

AMSA checks ÂGlow RunÊ athletes THE 2018 ‘GLOW RUN’ had promised to be the premier activity of Islandwide Fitness Bootcamp organization. It fulfilled this intention.

Over one thousand runners were expected to participate in the March 10 activity. Would be participants crowded the grounds of the Cruise Ship Terminal to register for the 10K event.

Many, after registration, made good use of the service of checks specifically for blood glucose and blood pressure, offered at booths set up at various locations on the grounds, and manned by medical students from the Trinity Chapter of the American Medical Students Association (AMSA).

Then it was time for participants to be adorned with glowing decorations that would resonate in the darkness, and off to the fitness challenges at the former

E. T. Joshua Airport site, after which runners returned to the Cruise Terminal to conclude with ‘warm down’ activities.

The march got going at 6:30pm.

What made the fit so perfect between Islandwide Fitness and Trinity AMSA was the fact that the fitness organization has a primary focus of creating awareness for diabetes and hypertension — two chronic, noncommunicable diseases at the forefront of the cause of death in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Fitness trainer and Director of Islandwide Fitness Bootcamp, Mr. Keyon Constance expounded, “The Glow Run seeks to get participants involved in physical activities. The glucose and blood pressure checks are intended to highlight the

importance of controlling the levels for both diseases, hence the reason for the health fair conducted by AMSA prior to the run.

AMSA students explain to the runners what their numbers mean, whether they be high or low.”

To further encourage checking, Islandwide Fitness offered an incentive of gifts of water bottles and other useful items, to the first three hundred participants completing both checks.

Term four student Anitesh Jaswal saw the activity as an opportunity for AMSA to make persons aware of the issues. Because persons showed a willingness to be checked, he assured, “I think it shows people’s awareness, and it’s a good to get checked to put themselves ahead of any issues they may have. That’s really the goal!”

Members of the Trinity AMSA who were on hand to conduct the checks.

Runners, after registering, lined up to have their blood glucose and pressure checked.

Though quite happy to do checks for runners, Anitesh was quite aware that the students were not there to give advice.

“It’s a good thing that people are getting checked” he stated. “If they have any issues, our first and main advice would be, ‘Go to your physician’, because we’re only students and,

therefore, not licensed to give that kind of advice.”

Another fourth term student, Spencer Allen, opined that, “I feel great assisting the fight against diabetes and hypertension. This isn’t our home but we’re living here. Whenever we could help them, it’s useful.”

Director and Physical

Trainer, Keyon Constance thanked AMSA and lauded them for their participation in the activity. “The fight against diabetes and hypertension is real,” he stressed.

Participation in the ‘Glow Run’ ranged from a nine-month-old with his parents, to a seventyfive-year old grandfather.

V NY group celebrates SVG National Heroes Day 6. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT HUNDREDS OF VINCENTIANS two Saturday nights ago joined the Brooklynbased Garifuna Indigenous People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Inc. (GIPSVG) in celebrating National Heroes Day with a cultural extravaganza at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, New York.

The six-hour-long event featured a wide array of performances, as well as mouth-watering Vincentian cuisine, such as pelau, breadfruit and saltfish, banana and smoke herring, chokie

bam bam (cassava bread) and dukuna (a sweet potato-based pudding prototype).

Performances included: Flag ceremony by the Belize Garifuna Settlement Day Mass Cultural Committee; chant by GIPSVG; GIPSVG Quadrille dancers; GIPSVG choir; poems, speeches, songs, drumming and skits by Belizean singer and song writer James Lovell and the Garifuna Kids; and Brooklyn Century Steel Orchestra.

Other performances were by: Crooner Theo Homer; calypsonian Franklin “Supadex” Richards; singer Garfield Palmer; the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCGB);

Garifuna Kids perform.

Right: GIPSVG Quadrille Dancers.

GIPSVG parents and children dance (pankiba); Janelle (poem — “Ode to the King”); Garifuna Warrior; and soca artiste and entertainer Prim Adonna.

Homer enwrapped patrons with “I Need Your Love and Affection”; “Don’t Go Away”; and “Woman for a Man.” The Brooklyn Century Steel Orchestra banged out Becket’s “St. Vincent (and the Grenadines) I Love You”; “Red, Red Wine”; “African Queen” by 2 Face Idibia; “Feel So Good” by Jamaican reggae artiste Beres Hammond; “I am a Music Man” by former perennial Grenada Calypso Monarch Ajamu; and “Wet” by Vincentian soca artiste Bomani.

New York Consul General Howie Prince noted that 225 years have passed since the Garifuna or Black Caribs — an admixture of the indigenous Kalinago and Africans — were sent into exile by British colonizers.

“We celebrate our forefathers and what they have done,” he told patrons.

“But, thank God, they have lived on.”

Culture Minister Cecil “Ces” McKie, in town for the official launch of new air service from New York to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, said

Brooklyn Century Steel Orchestra.

there were expected to be “lots of celebrations” at home on Mar. 14 on National Heroes Day, urging the crowd to travel home next year for the grand Garifuna celebrations.

GIPSVG President Marcia James, who hails from the northeastern village of Owia on mainland St. Vincent, said proceeds from the event will, among other things, augment the sponsoring of an essay competition for students from Overland to Fancy, along the country’s northeastern corridor; provide care packages for the elderly; and aid in the annual bookbag package.

“Today, you’re not only being entertained, but you are making these goals possible,” she said.

Joseph Chatoyer, the Paramount Chief of the Black Caribs, was officially declared the first — and to date the only — National Hero of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, on Mar. 14, 2002.

Mar. 14 has been designated National Heroes Day in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and is celebrated annually as a public holiday.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 7.

Community

Avenues announces list of activities THE AVENUES UNITED SPORTS and Educational Cultural Club has kickstarted its scheduled list of activities in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary.

Kozel Fraser, Vice President of the Club, said during a press briefing last Monday, that 2018 was a big year for Avenues, in that the footballers will be participating in the Caribbean Club Shield competition next month in the Dominican Republic, in this the club’s 50th year of existence.

“It is very significant for us, we are very proud of it,” Fraser said, adding that, based on research, Avenues United is the longest standing

community-based organization in the country.

It was also being anticipated that the two activities would enable members to realize the club’s intention of re-establishing Avenues as an organization that contributes to the holistic development of the youths.

And for the members of the executive, it was an opportunity to build a national awareness around the planned activities.

Janeille Browne, the club’s General Secretary/Public Relations Officer, said that activities to mark the occasion will begin on Sunday with a church service to be held at the Kingstown

Church of Christ, Kingstown Park.

The club’s participation in next month’s regional football competition is among the activities slated for the month of April.

Janeille Browne, Kozel Fraser, Vice Other planned activities, the club’s General President of the according to Browne, include a Secretary/Public Club, described the football exhibition and soccerama, Relations Officer, year as a ‘big’ one and activities for the adults in the gave an overview for Avenues. form of a boat cruise. of the activities The children of the community making. planned for the are not being left out, and a cultural Browne further year. games night has been included in the said that the list of activities. activities were expected to culminate The club will be hosting a summer in December with a planned dinner programme this year, with focus on and awards ceremony. (DD) song writing and Carnival Costume

Avenues FC still seeking sponsorship why football teams are facing challenges in their effort to solicit funding.

Fraser made the comments while speaking at a press briefing to officially launch activities to mark the 50th anniversary of the existence of the Avenues United Sports and Educational Cultural Organization.

Avenues Football Club is expected to be featured among 12 teams in CONCACAF’s Caribbean Club Shield Championships to be held in the Dominican Republic next month.

According to Fraser, the club has been one of the more successful Marvin Fraser, teams in the country, Manager/Coach of the particularly during the Avenues Sports Club, spoke of the challenges past eight years.

However, like other the club faces in its football clubs throughout efforts to attract the country, Avenues assistance for its participation in overseas still faced a challenge when it came to get competitions/ funding or sponsorship, tournaments. particularly for participation in THE MANNER in which competitions abroad. sports is perceived in St The economy may Vincent and the play a part, but Fraser Grenadines was evident was of the opinion that in the amount of support because sports was not sporting clubs receive being treated as a with respect to priority area here, this sponsorship or financial did not encourage assistance. persons to offer financial Marvin Fraser, assistance.

Manager/Coach of the “If you check all the Avenues Sports Club, sports, they are on a said further that it was decline,” Fraser said, as a result of the way in adding that sports were which football was often viewed as a hobby. viewed, compared to “Parents, we some of the other sports,

encourage our children to become doctors and lawyers and we send them away to study to return with degrees, but then there is usually hardly anything for them to do with that degree.

But there are continuous openings in sports,” he said.

There is the added challenge that arises from the negative perception of the Paul’s Avenue community, Fraser said, but he noted this was changing as more businesses move into the area.

But having said that, he admitted that the response to solicitations for sponsorship/ financial assistance has not been favourable thus far. He, however, commending those businesses that had already demonstrated commitment and assured that the club was still actively seeking donations.

The cost for air fare, Fraser said, amounted to EC$79,000 — CONCACAF/FIFA has pledged US$12,000 to the effort, “but the rest of the money will have to come from out of pocket.”

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation has also pledged a donation, the Avenues manager/coach said.

This is the second time the Avenues

Avenues United Football Club capped off 2017 with another two titles, taking both the First Division and Premier Division (pictured) of the Computec/Comsports/Hairoun/BDO Arnos Vale Football League.

Football Club has participated in a regional tournament. Back in 2010, the team played in the Caribbean Champions League.

Funding to participate in that tournament came from the National Lotteries Authority (NLA); however, Fraser said that the team also paid out of pocket to cover expenses. (DD)

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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 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 Steepping outside of the norm so many people.

Many have WE’RE STILL IN HERITAGE MONTH done, through thick and thin, with (March) which includes the annual meagre resources, on the strength of National Heroes Day activities that their faith some mighty force has stretch from the ceremonial laying of bestowed upon them, daring, heroic wreaths in honour of National Hero and selfless acts which are in the Chief Chatoyer, to activities main, recognised for only that long representative of our Garifuna Heritage after the acts have occurred.

(Greiggs) and more festive expressions Ordinary acts, perhaps, by ordinary in the northern most community (Fancy) people, but no less impacting. of mainland St. Vincent and, for most People like Wran Gould may just young people, wild and wet indoor and have a lesson to teach all of us — not outdoor fetes. least those in whose hands lies the But even as we look back at authority to name National Heroes another National Heroes Day and and select persons for National find that Chatoyer stands lonely, as Awards. That lesson could read it were, on the pedestal reserved for something like: we should be more official National Heroes, we can sensitive, mindful and less flippant comfort ourselves with some sense of about acts by people such as those satisfaction that, in the midst of all whom Wran Gould chose to the ‘officialdom’, some persons have recognise. used the occasion for which it is Those persons, and there are many seemingly designed — to recognise more than the 100 Gould selected, those who by popular and ‘common’ are the salt of our very being as interpretation, have contributed to Vincentians, and should not go making us a little more Vincentian. unnoticed.

Starlift Steel Orchestra’s grand It is a sad fact, if the truth be told, honouring of its founder Walton that the media focus and the public ‘Tanny’ Peters aside, there was at glare have tended to be directed least one other activity that just almost entirely on the ‘antics and might have fallen below the national aberrations’ of the ‘big ones’, who radar. already enjoy most of the limelight Wran Gould, not considered by and informal and formal debate. many to be a nationally profiled The stories of the ‘ordinary’ people figure, even though he has made a ought to be recorded, consistently significant contribution to enhancing spoken about in schools and colleges the skills of many who have found across the land, highlighted though employment in the local, regional and lectures, seminars, church homilies international hospitality industries, and yes, even in parliament, the last continued his one-man crusade with named in a non-partisan manner, if a National Day of Honour for some that is at all possible. one hundred persons he assessed to Not to do this is, as one writer said be ‘cultural icons’. And this, he did, somewhere in time, (to paraphrase) with his own resources. to run the risk of not telling the real Talk about putting what little stories about real people, in real money you have where your mouth time. is!

And this is not for mere posterity.

It is not the first time that Gould We must continually remind or has demonstrated this sense of inform ourselves of the exploits of patriotism. He has feted, on more these ‘ordinary’ people, for it is in than one occasion, senior citizens of recognising the ‘great works’ of his community (Campden Park and persons immediately around us, that its surroundings), in recognition of we will set a course along a genuine their contribution to maintaining pathway to building a sense of stability in family life and appreciation of our own — our people, community. our culture, our achievements.

For this, and other similar efforts, Sometimes, it is the simple things we need to be extremely grateful. that matter.

Amidst all the clamour for more Wran Gould and others of his National Heroes to be named, people disposition and sense of like Wran Gould have moved to ‘Vincentianness’, must be commended honour ‘ordinary’ people — people and supported in their efforts. who, in their own simple ways, have Persons like Gould have kept it real done great things in their respective and connected to the people. fields of endeavour, and touched, Maybe we should honour him as directly and indirectly, the lives of oh well.

(Reprinted from Edition Of March 24, 2017.)

In response to National heroes Day: A reflection of the past WHAT FOLLOWS IS THE BULK of my reply to Ralph signing as Ulpian Leonard Pierre in 2009. I add only a single but potent observation.

In his address at the National Heroes celebration, March 2018, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves referred to his mother as the “Mother who fathered me”.

The reference is academically inaccurate; in reality it is a slap in the face to his dead father, and amounts to a national disgrace.

Ralph’s father never sowed wild oats and was in fact a devoted and stable “old man”. The correct sociological description of Ralph’s family situation is one of “faithful concubinage”. Small wonder, as related to me by Lloyd Lewis during one of our many political rap sessions, that on visiting his father in the hospital, the father fell soundly asleep to awaken as soon as Ralph had gone, a story confirmed by Dave Roberts on air.

“I have to hand it to “U.L.P” who virtually left my (original) article barely scotched and viciously attacked me personally, in all three journals for maximum coverage and effect, on the 31st August 2007.

The author is a past- master in the art of political propaganda, knowing that to be read in St Vincent you have to put a name in the title followed by the nastiest charges.

By now the general readers should be familiar with the style, but it tends to score all the same. Sweeping allegations and general charges without base are calculated to befuddle the simple mind with a magic ring of mere words orchestrated in a particular sequence.

So, ‘Kenneth the pitiful creature’ is chockfull of “envy, jealousy, resentment, malice and hatred” plucked from a well-used armoury of animosities. With that introduction, the ground has been softened and prepared for the real salvo which he launches without facts, it is simply asserted as self-evident”.

In my article of the week before I had called for some rationalisation to the system of honours and awards which, owing to the rampant party politicalisation, was being cheapened into meaninglessness.

Again I was attacked for noting that

Michael Hamlett did not deserve a State Funeral according to the rules and regulations laid down in a publication “The Right Way” by Brendon Browne, the Cabinet Secretary. Hamlett’s contribution was made not to the nation, but to the U.L.P. which some people confuse with the State.

One is left to wonder whether this bad precedent had negatively influenced the family of Sir Sydney Gun-Munro in declining the offer of a State Funeral to which our first Governor General was doubly entitled.

I interpreted this to be an unwillingness to participate in the emerging political pantomime.

In regard to Milton Cato, I simply repeated an original stand, that the attempt to crown him National Hero had been ill-advised and politically motivated, but that he was deserving of attachment to some national symbol, which naming the hospital after him was appropriate.

In making my point, I had to take umbrage with Sir Louis’ misrepresentation of Cato to bolster his claim, but that was no reflection on Cato himself.

St.Clair Dacon and I were always friends. From the time he taught when James Pompey and I excelled in his subjects. As a matter of interest, his friends, the Keziers who maintained contact with him as a student in London in the mid-1960’s, reported that he was quite impressed by the writings of “Luminus,” in THE VINCENTIAN which they sent him.

They now learn, for the first time, that I had been Luminus.

I honestly believed that Dacon’s contribution to the national welfare was grossly exaggerated. A closer look should reveal that he held high positions, but that his general performances in them were, at best, lacklustre. Above all, the role he played as Minister of Education in the abuses of tear-gas Friday, ruled him Continued on Page 17.

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Letters

Pertussis Whooping Cough OUR DAUGHTER, who lives in Canada, will be giving birth soon, and as my husband and I are planning on visiting to meet the newest addition to the family, she has asked us to please get our booster shot for Pertussis (Whooping Cough). In Canada, Pertussis, along with Diphtheria and Tetanus (or the TDaP) is part of the standard vaccination protocol for children. Adults are advised to get the booster every 10 years to ensure continued immunity.

In light of our upcoming travel, I spoke with my physician. She advised me to visit a clinic. We visited a clinic. Nope. No Pertussis vaccine for adults. They advised us to visit a government clinic. We did. Nope. No adult Pertussis vaccine.

They suggested checking with one of the major pharmacies in Kingstown. Nope. No adult Pertussis vaccine.

This is totally unbelievable! Why you ask?

Adults are the most common source of pertussis infection in infants. Infants are at the greatest risk of serious complications, including death, from whooping cough. Approximately half of infants less than one year of age who get whooping cough are hospitalised. And even if pertussis is deemed ‘eradicated’ in this country, what about those Vincentians who frequently travel abroad?

What is the Ministry of Health’s position on this?

Just Inquiring

The Black Panther movie I WENT TO SEE the Black Panther movie and I was thoroughly entertained. That is why I go to the movies; that is why I watch movies on TV. TO BE ENTERTAINED first and foremost.

So, all the ‘ole talk’ about what Black Panther does or does do for black people, is neither here nor there to me. I got my money’s worth.

Sometimes I think we take an issue too far. I wonder if the movie had been released during the Obama term as President of the USA, whether that fellow, whom Jomo quoted from in his column of two

weeks ago, would have had the same opinion.

If I am to be honest, I must also say that I was informed by this movie.

It caused me to go digging into some African history… not to see if the movie was right or wrong, but simply for my own education.

Now, is that not one useful impact of the movie?

I would encourage all my friends, and my enemies too, to see the Black Panther movie.

After all, it’s just a movie, but it could turn out to be much more.

Happy viewing.

Jacob

MASSY, petty cash and farmers IT IS DIFFICULT to understand how a prominent firm like MASSY could feel comfortable turning away small farmers without payment for the goods they had supplied and which the firm had several days before, agreed to purchase from the farmers.

It is a most “wutless exhibition” of indifference, for it is well known, that these farmers are now operating under tremendous pressure.

Praedial larceny, no roads, very little support from the Ministry of Agriculture which these days/years has grown to become very untrustworthy. It will be

remembered that they had boldly declared that they were going to plant 250 acres of new bananas in 2016. They promoted it as “The Twenty Point 100 Days Plan”. It was to have been executed between April and July 2016.

Nothing has come of it, and there has been no explanation!

These unfortunate farmers are being turned away by MASSY without payment. “We have no petty-cash now”, is what they are told by the clerk. This attitude from one of our seemingly strongest corporate citizens, should not be accommodated by “conscious citizens” who

He laid hands on me He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And found the essence of me I craved his love and he was crazy about me We were inseparable There was no him without me So, they’d tease us about marriage and children My forever love, his Oshun, his deity.

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And my heart deceived me My mind gave me up To a man whose thirst for me Was unlike anything I’d ever experienced So, when he reached for me My body never resisted.

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And told me that the world was ours That there was nothing he won’t do for me Because I was his and he was mine Ours was a love sealed by time So, in his words I found assurance My doubts were erased.

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And when he grabbed my wrist My heart raced and my mind exploded “Who was that on the phone?”

I was trembling, I was scared, We were alone So, when he lifted his hand I clenched my jaw My face felt the impact.

lucky enough to have a wife who is working. Gone are the days when it was only the men who returned home tired on evenings, to meet a tidy home, a hot meal waiting and a loving wife with a radiant smile to greet him. The opposite is now quite true, and most professional women look forward to going home after work to meet the man of

the fashioning of a “Petty Cash” apparatus, which would allow them to pay promptly for the produce from the small farmers.

Given the realities of the burdens of our strangled economy, the relief to those farmers will be appreciated.

LeRoy Providence

‘Big Up’ Dr. Mitchell

He laid hands on her Strong manly hands.

CONGRATULATIONS to Dr. Keith Mitchell on his victory at the polls in Grenada. It seems Dr. Mitchell is making it a habit of winning all seats.

And it is interesting to note, Mr. Editor, that a Mitchell also won all seats some time ago here. Maybe those Mitchell boys know something that the others don’t.

But seriously, barring the fractions in the opposition, for a party to get all the seats, tells you that the people trust that party. They must have been doing something good why the people would not want to change them.

Dr. Mitchell has tasted defeat in the past, but he seems to have all intentions of being around for a long time.

A. King

Tim

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And said he was sorry, that he was in agony My swollen lips were too sore to move I felt his head on my bosom I knew he was hurting So, I drew him into me My thighs welcomed him.

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And that night his was renewed My fears subsided The seed planted within me Began to grow quietly So, my body started changing My spirit was awakening.

He laid hands on me Strong manly hands And caused a revolt in my mind Four months pregnant With the child he claimed to adore Pinned to the wall the minute I walked through the door So, I pleaded with him for the sake of our child My soul resigned.

‘intruded’ by brave and capable females. But when females move out of their ‘traditional’ roles, it creates a their life with dreams of vacuum that is now often fulfilling their love life, before being filled by equally capable or after a sumptuous meal. men. Hairdressing is Women are increasingly considered a woman’s taking on leadership roles in occupation, yet the world’s society; we have female pilots, best hairstylist, gynaecologist bus drivers, brick layers, or cake decorator is a man. lawyers, electronic Why is this so? Why aren’t technicians, astronauts, women trying to be the best in doctors, politicians, and what is considered their traditionally male-dominated traditional role? Is it that environments are being society is evolving in its

… enter the “house husband” !!!

The 21st Century and even a little before that, has ushered in the era of the ‘house husband’ … Yes, the house husband!

These are not lazy men with a leaning to the feminine, but strong, athletic, smart, handsome and talented who may not have been ‘lucky’ to land the job of their choice, but who are in most cases

well know that in the days when our economy was doing well, it was largely on these farmers that the burden of earning foreign exchange rested.

This is a matter which the new Minister of Finance could probably use his influence to have resolved. It would be in harmony with the declaration he made in his Budget Address recently, that Agriculture was going to be a pillar in the economy this year.

I do not think it would be unreasonable to suggest, that MASSY could have a loan from the Farmer Support Company, to facilitate

thinking, and that occupational sex role stereotypes are being replaced by open-minded males and females who dare to satisfy their own academic and professional needs, by doing the things that please them most? The latter comment is how I envisage this revolution.

What about you…., but smile before you do.

Donald De Riggs

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More development for the Agriculture Sector; Excerpt from the 2018 budget address

Introduction THE HONOURABLE MINISTER of Agriculture, Labour and Industry, Saboto Caesar, will no doubt speak extensively on the new opportunities for work and production that now exist by virtue of his exemplary endeavours in the areas for which he exercises ministerial responsibility. This year, we expect to break ground on a new seafood packaging facility in Calliaqua. The lease of existing, state-owned fisheries centres in Barrouallie, Bequia, Calliaqua, Canouan, Owia and Union Island to the private sector and cooperative interests, is expected to unlock the entrepreneurial and business potential of these facilities.

The recapitalization of the Farmers Support Revolving Fund — coupled with World Bank and EU programmes to enhance competitiveness, modernize agribusiness infrastructure and secure market access — will undoubtedly create new growth opportunities in this indispensable productive sector. The farmers and the agriculture sector have long been the cornerstone of not only economic development, but social cohesion in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. This Budget stands as a recommitment to the centrality of farming and fishing in the economic future of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The focus of the Honourable Minister of Agriculture on modernization, markets and movement towards value-added agribusiness is nothing short of visionary. It is also jobs-focused. Now is the time for the young men and women of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to take a fresh look at the new opportunities for work and growth in a modern, diverse and expanding agricultural sector.

Medicinal Cannabis Today, global developments and shifting attitudes have presented Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with an opportunity to leverage its home-grown experience and expertise in cannabis cultivation — albeit illicit — into a fullfledged industry that will take advantage of the positive medicinal properties of cannabis and its ability to produce pharmaceuticals that can be used in pain management, nausea prevention, seizure suppression, and in treating anxiety disorders, certain cancers, glaucoma, insomnia, etcetera.

This year, we intend to continue wide and thorough consultations with the Vincentian public to canvass their views on the desirability of a well-regulated, clearly defined, export-oriented, medical cannabis industry in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Such an industry, if supported by the public and approved

by Parliament, would position our country to take advantage of the economic opportunities presented by the rapidly expanding international market for medicinal cannabis products.

However, we must be clear-eyed and realistic about the potential of this industry, the prevalence and perception of Marijuana in large sections of the Vincentian society, and the status of cannabis in our regional and international context. For example, we must first acknowledge that, despite anecdotal claims of the superiority of locally-cultivated cannabis, there is no empirical evidence to support these assertions.

Much of the growth of the illicit trade in Vincentian marijuana is based not so

much on its quality, but on our location, terrain, and multiplicity of small cultivators. In short, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a competitive advantage in the illicit trade in Marijuana — an advantage that does not automatically transfer to legal production of medicinal cannabis.

Stripped of its illegality, cannabis becomes just another crop — like a dasheen or a banana. We must contemplate an industry that focusses not merely on the export of a raw cash crop, but rather on value-added extracts and pharmaceutical products.

Second, while there will no-doubt be populist calls to “free up the weed” in its entirety, this Government is not currently prepared to take that step.

Unregulated consumption of recreational marijuana poses a number of risks and challenges that we do not currently have the data on which to make informed decisions, or the capacity to manage effectively. Further, our regular scientific polling on this issue shows a deep divergence of views on the issue of recreational marijuana in our society. We cannot responsibly ignore the deeply held beliefs of such a large section of the Vincentian public.

Third, we must recognise that Vincentian cultivators currently produce the majority of their recreational marijuana for export to neighbouring countries in which the recreational consumption of marijuana remains illegal. It would be an irresponsible act to give official sanction to flooding regional markets with a product that remains illegal in those markets. The production and export of cannabis products must be linked to markets that licence and accept them. We are not a bad neighbour. There will be ample space for local cultivators and entrepreneurs in the medicinal cannabis industry.

Conclusion There is a general acceptance by most Vincentians that agriculture is a sustaining factor in the rural economy.

In fact t would be safe to say that agriculture is the largest single employer of labour, of any of the productive sectors, outside the state administration and the public enterprises.

That is why the opposition NDP has mounted a series of lies, aimed at the farmers in the constituencies from South Windward to North Windward, and including Marriaqua. It’s no secret that the people in these constituencies voted solidly, for the Unity Labour Party. It is also no secret that the ULP has done tremendous work in supporting the banana industry, in every material particular.

The NDP is on record as having not done anything significant to protect the banana industry, in their 17 years in office, despite warnings from the leader of the ULP, Comrade Ralph. The ULP will continue the process of reviving the banana industry, and complete the full transformation of the agriculture sector, particularly to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Argyle International Airport.

Sports Development in SVG THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) recognizes the importance of sports to our athletes, our people and our country, and we further recognize that early achievements in sport are a means for some to achieve higher education and better livelihoods. Therefore, the NDP will work relentlessly to ensure that sports has a place of prominence on the development agenda.

Decades ago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines had established itself as a force to be reckoned with in sports.

We were regionally and world rated in football and in netball. We were producing West Indies cricketers. We were sending track and field athletes in increasing numbers on athletic scholarships and to international competitions. However, over the past seventeen years, our standing has declined drastically, as a result of neglect and lack of a proper vision for sports development. This is seen in the steady deterioration of playing facilities across the length and breadth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the fading away of interest in various forms of organized sporting events.

For instance, in track and field, our athletes have been competing on surface that is not conducive for their development. That was evident at the just concluded Inter-Primary and Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships. Our athletes continue to run on grass. No national stadium and not a sign of an artificial track for our athletes to develop, so that they can acquire the skills necessary to compete for regional and international competitions. Undoubtedly, a lack of vision in sports development by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime by failing to construct the national stadium and provide an artificial track for our athletes. For seventeen (17) years, the ULP regime has promised to deliver a National Stadium, but the mere fact that after all this time, they cannot even find the boundaries of the national stadium site, is testimony to their incompetence and complete lack of interest. Our athletes can be assured that the NDP is committed to the construction of a national stadium.

The NDP will also implement a framework for upgrading and management of sports facilities at constituency and community level. An NDP government will implement a Service, Opportunity and Support (SOS) framework, which will ensure that sporting facilities are upgraded to accommodate their respective sporting disciplines. Community Sport Councils must be developed and sustained, eagerly taking ownership of the maintenance of the established facilities and supporting the programmes for physical activity and sport in their respective communities.

In addition, we will develop at least one playing field in each constituency to the extent that it can accommodate regionally organized sports; these facilities will be fully lit and will have stands and changing facilities. And develop projects to convert the surfaces of playing fields into artificial surfaces, particularly in areas where grass does not grow properly.

We are an island, and water is a part of us, and the sport of swimming should be at a much higher level at the competitive arena. As a result, the NDP will construct a National Aquatic Centre to attract national, regional and international competitions and to grow the sports locally. Meanwhile, the NDP congratulates the Swimming Association for the tremendous job it

has been been doing recently. Also, Sports will form part of the curricula within the schools from the primary level. Students will be taught sports as a discipline, and skilled personnel will be employed to teach physical education.

Some of the other areas of development that the NDP will focus on include the construction of a national indoor sports complex, floored with special sport flooring materials, to accommodate sports such as basketball, volleyball, netball, tennis and squash; provide sports scholarships to athletes who excel in their respective sporting discipline, to attend secondary school, college or university; implement a structure that ensures a proper foundation for youth development of elite athletes; provide effective system of sports medicine.

Establish an institution that caters for athletes who have displayed the capacity to excel in their respective sporting disciplines; provide schooling within this institution; provide appropriate coaches to facilitate the enhancement of the athletes at the institution and develop a strong research and development component of this institution.

Furthermore, we will ensure proper funding of sports in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for training and associated activities. A fixed percentage of funds from the National Lotteries Authority will be made available for sports development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and funding will be provided to properlyconstituted national sporting organizations coordinated through the ministry of sport, via an annual subvention. Funding will be available for training referees, umpires and other sports resource persons. Also, determine annually fixed percentages of funds from the National Lotteries Authority for sporting development, and consider the development needs of national sports association in a prioritize manner through consultation with these bodies and engaging private sector involvement in their construction.

Moreover, the NDP will reorganize the National Sport Council. The National Sport Council has become something of a political football much to the detriment of the national sport development process. In addition, the National Sport Council has been narrowly focused on cricket in recent years. The NDP will convene a special committee to redesign and redevelop the organization and diversify its focus, ensuring that the National Sport Council is managed by appropriately qualified personnel who will lead and work in the interest of all stakeholders.

It is evident that the NDP is committed to sports development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This was further demonstrated by the presence of members of the NDP, headed by its President, Dr. the Honourable Godwin Friday, at the Inter Primary and Secondary Schools’ athletics championships on Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd April, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Their presence served as an inspiration and motivation to the youth, and showed how much the NDP appreciates and values sports and youth development.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 11.

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Caribbean Women in Science and Technology (Part 1 of 2)

“Everyone wants their child to be a doctor or a lawyer, but hospitals and law firms hire relatively few people.

Science creates thousands of jobs.

We can do that in the Caribbean if we train our young people to value science and innovation. …” Lois Oliver - Scientist WOMEN HAVE PLAYED, and will continue to play, significant roles in science and innovation. Page 71 of the LIAT’ ZING Magazine Issue #42 (MarchApril 2018) featured the outstanding work of Barbadian Scientist Lois Oliver.

After reading the article, I followed the urge to contact her. Our e-mail exchanges resulted in Lois providing me with the names of several female Caribbean scientists. Those examples confirmed that our girls can continue to play a major role in advancing science, technology, and innovation. We therefore have a great responsibility and privilege to encourage them to pursue their passion in these fields and not to incorrectly conclude that they are barred from such pursuits. This twopart article highlights the outstanding accomplishments of Lois Oliver of Barbados; Ayanna Samuels of Jamaica; Petal Punalall-Jetoo of Guyana; Dr. Jeanese Badenock, Deputy Dean of the Department of Science and Technology at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies; and Dr. Camille Wardrop Alleyne, of Trinidad and Tobago.

Lois Oliver is the Factory Manager at Curacao Laboratories Ltd. St. Georges, Barbados. She graduated from the University of the West Indies with a Bachelor’s degree, having specialized in Biology and Chemistry. She worked as a Professional Medical Representative for Pfizer Corporation for a number of years before directing her effort to manage all logistical and management aspects of hosting business education summits. This “drift away from science” was shortlived. One year later, her passion for the sciences resulted in her accepting the challenge to be the Assistant Brewer at Banks Barbados Breweries Limited. In this capacity, she managed the value chain activities involved in the brewing process as she worked closely with other departments such as Quality Control, Engineering, Packaging, Production, Planning, and Stores & Warehousing.

She held the position of Assistant Director at the Barbados-based Caribbean Science Foundation during the period March 2013 to November 2017. In this capacity, she championed programmes to enhance the awareness and importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Ayanna Samuels of Jamaica is an international development professional who specializes in Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Ms. Samuels has a BSc in Aerospace Engineering with Information Technology. She then proceeded to secure her MSc degrees in Technology Policy and Aerospace Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Engineering in Cambridge, MA, USA. Ms. Samuels has a wealth of experience working with multicountry development projects, and has a passion for researching innovative

ways to use ICT in pursuing developmental goals. She has helped to shape regulatory and instructional frameworks of the Caribbean telecommunications sector. She has also worked with a wide range of respected development agencies such as the World Bank, the International Development Bank, CARICOM, the Caribbean Association of National Telecommunications Organisations, the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, and the International Institute for Communications and Development.

She is presently a member of two important Boards/ Advisory Councils in Jamaica: the “Public Sector Transformation Committee”, and the “National ICT Advisory Council”. Her skills and experiences are now honed to support the efforts of the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining.

Ms. Petal Punalall-Jetoo of Guyana worked with the Guyana Sugar Corporation Incorporated (GuySuCo) as the Regional Process Technologist (Demerara, Guyana). In this capacity, she was responsible for production and quality control at four Demerara Sugar Estates. This position required that she paid particular attention to all of the value chain activities at the various establishments. She coordinated the establishment of GuySuCo’s Quality Management Systems. She also played a major role in having the Blairmont Sugar Estate achieve the International Organization for Standards (ISO) 9001 certification in 2005. She is a trained lead auditor in several International Organization Standards.

With such an accomplished background in science and standards, it is no wonder that she now holds the position of the National Science Coordinator. She also heads the Science Unit within Guyana’s Ministry of Education. In this capacity, she is responsible for designing, implementing, and monitoring the science programmes within the schools. She is also Guyana’s representative for the Caribbean Science Foundation and has championed the reintroduction of the use of Micro science experiment kits for chemistry, physics, and biology at the secondary school level.

Based on these “snapshots” of Lois Oliver, Ayanna Samuels, and Petal Punalall-Jettoo, we can readily conclude that our Caribbean women have made (and continue to make) their mark in science and technology.

In part two of this essay, we will feature other Caribbean women who have blazed a trail in the sciences … and make us justly proud of their achievements. We applaud them for their determination and passion. We trust that many others will follow the noble paths that they have chosen.

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

The best PM SVG never had MARCH IS NATIONAL HEROES MONTH and at the official celebration on March 14, where tribute was yet again deservedly paid to Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer, the outstanding defender of our nation’s sovereignty , self-determination and independence, there was a great deal of talk about who our Heroes should be.

Luke Browne and PM Gonsalves spoke extensively and eloquently about our country’s fight against foreign domination and the many battles to prevent genocide, slavery and colonialism. Opposition MP Daniel Cummings spoke about other people who made or continue to make contributions to our national development, and why they too must be remembered and credited for their work and sacrifice.

I want to talk about Renwick Kamara Rose and the tremendous contribution he has made to national development over the last 40 years. I got to know Kamara in 1973 while still a primary school student.

Then he was a teacher at the Bishop’s College in Kingstown. He led some epic battles against the blatant racism of Father Streeting, the principal at Bishop’s. He was a favourite of the students and helped in the efforts to encourage student councils in the secondary schools. He also helped in the creation of the student group, Organization for the Unity and Rights of Students (OURS).

Kamara Rose was a founding member of Black Liberation Action Committee (BLAC) whose early members were his brother Chivambo, Black Messenger, I Reality, Kayank of Yankee fame, and the De Man Age. By emancipation day 1974, BLAC merged with the Organization for Black Cultural Awareness (OBCA) of Jim Maloney and Patches Knights and the Young Socialist Group (YSG) of Caspar London, Hugh Ragguette and Glenroy Browne, to form the Youlou United Liberation Movement (YULIMO).

Youlou is one of the names given to our country by the original inhabitants.

As a starry-eyed teenager willing and eager to soak up any and everything positive and progressive, there was no better teacher than Kamara (Swahili for teacher) Rose. He was the consummate listener, possessed the patience of a Buddhist and was analytically sharp as a knife’s edge. Kamara possessed the bravery of someone consumed with the righteousness of his cause. He led by example and was willing to sacrifice everything to advance the cause of the people.

The greatness of Renwick Kamara Rose is reflected in the number of times he reinvented himself. He was a teacher, developmental economist, full time revolutionary, leader of YULIMO and UPM, editor of the Freedom and Justice newspapers, columnist in the News and Searchlight newspapers, civil society leader, director in Windward Islands Farmers Association (Winfa). He was and remains a champion for fair trade and continually points to the inequities that flow from the policies of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Kamara Rose never subscribed to the view that anything that made life difficult for the toiling masses was normal and inevitable. He believed in fight. He believes in resistance and he remains convinced that victory was certain no matter how many zigs and zags the journey to progress maytake.

If ever he had a blind spot, it was that progressives must not be openly criticized because such criticism offered succour to more reactionary elements.

For me, criticism and critical support were intended to push further to the left

those who claimed to be progressive.

The true progressive can never be satisfied with genuflection to progress.

They must fight for progress through words and action.

In 1979, with the formation of the United People’s Movement, Kamara Rose was nominated by Oscar Allen’s ARWEE for leadership of the upful Movement. Kamara’s YULIMO strongly supported Ralph Gonsalves and Kenneth John’s People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) suggested Parnel Campbell. Neither Ralph Gonsalves nor PR Campbell won majority support, and Kamara won the support of Arwee and PDM, and was declared leader of UPM. But this was not to be.

Forces within his own YULIMO argued against his leadership. They claimed that he was unfit because he had not gone to university. Kamara Rose, for the good of the Movement, stepped back. Ralph Gonsalves led the UPM into the 1979 elections, and the UPM, as a first time electoral party, won 14 percent of the votes.

Kamara Rose might not have gone to university, but he ensured that Dougie Slater, former Minister of Health; Andreas Wickham, Ambassador to Venezuela; Yvette Wickham, first secretary in our embassy in Caracas; Bernard Hamilton, Manager of BOSVG; Donnie De Freitas, Communications specialist; Richard Byron Cox, International Law expert; Karen Providence, Psychologist and others become first in their families to get a university degree.

In the 1970s, Kamara Rose as leader of YULIMO led the battle to ensure that we have public access to all of our beaches. We went to Breakers beach as well as swam to Young’s Island to ensure a black presence on those public beaches. Why he has remained silent on the reversals that our progressive government fosters in Canouan, is unfathomable.

Kamara Rose never believed in notion of a great leader with all of the answers. He was most demanding when it came to the political and ideological training of his cadres. He was serious about leadership. He was always about country first, second and last.

Kamara was never haughty or pompous. He despised vainglory. He loves the people, and remains willing to do more than most in their defense. He is honest, profoundly simple and simply profound in all of his words and actions.

He is strong, committed and forthright.

With Kamara, what you saw is what you got. No Anansi, no subterfuge, no guile, no ego, just commitment to country and the people.

It is remarkable that while respect for his work wanes in SVG, he is wooed in Europe as people sit in awe as he presents on ways to save bananas and on issues related to sustainable development. Clear proof that a prophet is never honoured in his own land.

If ever there is a Vincentian patriot who believes in genuine independence people’s ownership and control, that man is Kamara Rose. Now, imagine this giant of a man as the leader of our country. This is why Plain Talk remains convinced that he is the best Prime Minister our country never had.

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

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Stop stealing our beaches!

THE ULP REGIME has sold-off a lot of land to foreigners, and now Vincentians are being denied access to, what were, public beaches and some of SVG’s sea space. This land-grabbing by foreigners is resulting in our beaches being stolen.

Public land has been sold-off by the ULP regime without consultation, and the land has not been offered to Vincentians for purchase, before it is sold to foreigners. We’ve seen this in Canouan, Buccament Bay, Mount Wynne, Bequia and other areas.

Some of these lands sold to foreigners, have become white enclaves that only tourists can use. The ‘white enclave’ concept is an affront to our people and highly dangerous. In the long-term, there will be no land left for our children and grandchildren.

There is similar abuse in Mauritius.

Local communities there are complaining that foreign property developers are squeezing them out of beach-side land. “Beach grabbing erodes our birth rights”, say Mauritians.

There have been many demonstrations and protests by Vincentians, outlining how wrong this policy of selling land to foreigners is.

In Mauritius, a group calling themselves “Aret Kokin Nu Laplaz” (Stop Stealing our Beaches) has been protesting around their sites too.

It is not just about being denied

access to beaches and sea space, it is also about being denied access to resources that some peoples’ livelihoods depend upon. In Mustique, for example, Vincentians are denied access to some beaches, and it is illegal for SVG local fishermen to fish in the sea around Mustique. This results in lowering the income of our local fishermen.

This is a serious threat to us and our country. The fact that the white migrants of Mustique no longer want our local fishermen to fish in the sea around Mustique, is a very serious threat to our country’s sovereignty.

Fishermen have been fishing in the sea around Mustique for hundreds of years.

South Africans are land-grabbing in Mauritius. Locals say ‘we do not want this to be the start of another form of apartheid in Mauritius, where South African promoters come to Mauritius, bribe the government, steal beaches from locals, call police to arrest protesters and make false promise to locals in terms of job creation’.

Mauritians fight against the transgression of the master plans, against the procedure of obtaining land permits, against vices of procedures and the abuse of power by the authorities. It also fights against the grabbing of public beaches and the corruption of the conscience of the

citizens to whom they make believe that beach development is necessary.

In SVG, we need to fight against the same things.

In SVG, we have fewer beaches open for public access to Vincentians, because the government is giving our beaches to hotels, and more so to foreign-owned hotel promotors.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, the time has come for our country to close all white migrant enclaves in SVG. White migrants are turning Vincentians not second class citizens in their own country. White migrant

enclaves are bad for our country.

Our people need to call on the ULP government to stop selling public land to developers, stop blocking off public beaches for private use - excluding locals, and stop stealing our beaches.

The Berlin wall was pulled down; Apartheid was pulled down in South Africa; we need to pull down the abuse by foreigners of land-grabbing and excluding Vincentians from public beaches in their own country.

SVG Green Party

Elma Francois – from Domestic Worker to national heroine IN HIS COMMENTS on the occasion of International Women’s Day, 2018, Prime Minister the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves highlighted the cause of female Domestic Workers, who might be denied their right to national insurance benefits. He urged them to ask for, and take steps to obtain their rights.

This brought to mind the organization - National Union of Domestic Employees (NUDE) - which was formed in Trinidad and Tobago to advocate on behalf of Domestic Workers. This category of worker was at the fore front in the movement of people through the Caribbean, and as Domestic Workers to Canada. Yet, with the advent of the CSME, domestic workers were excluded, as free movement was reserved for mainly University Graduates and Cultural Artistes.

This is an injustice that needs to be addressed.

As we are still in Heroes’ Month, the Prime Minister’s comments also brought to mind the resistance of a national of St. Vincent and the Grenadines who travelled to Trinidad and was employed as a Domestic Worker. Today, her name is among the National Heroines of Trinidad and Tobago.

She is Elma Constance Francois, who was born in Overland, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, on 14th October, 1897. In her youth, she received primary education up to 5th standard, and then worked alongside her mother picking cotton. From an early age, she struggled for the betterment of her people since life was hard for labourers. Some women worked in the cotton fields, others as domestic workers, while others worked at the Mt. Bentick Sugar Factory. The outspoken Elma quickly set about trying to organize the labourers of Mt Bentick Sugar Factory where she worked, and was promptly fired.

Elma Francois then migrated to Trinidad where she worked as a domestic. Reading books late into

the night, Elma educated herself and proceeded to educate the people on labour and political matters.

When asked where she had acquired such knowledge, she said “You must read, and you musn’t read stupidness”.

She was a founding member of the National Unemployed Movement which was later renamed the Negro Welfare Cultural and Social Orgnisation (NWCSA).

The NWCSA organized many ‘hunger marches’ and, following the 1937 uprising, it instigated the first strike in Port of Spain.

Demonstrations and ‘strike fever’ spread throughout the whole country, and for her role, Elma Francois was arrested and charged with sedition.

She defended herself and was finally acquitted. When the prosecutor asked her why she persisted in making speeches which were causing disaffection among his Majesty’s subjects, she replied, “I don’t know that my speeches create disaffection; I know that my speeches create a fire in the minds of the people so as to change conditions which now exist”.

On September 25, 1987, fortythree years after her death, Elma Francois was declared a national heroine of Trinidad & Tobago for “her role in drawing attention to human dignity and effecting radical change towards eradicating mass unemployment and hunger. She demonstrated political will, temerity to speak up in public, tenacity in educating herself, and in using that education for a cause”.

The spirit of Resistance was the driving force that led this warrior woman to serve in such a selfless and outstanding manner. Her visionary and pioneering leadership, extraordinary achievement, and the attainment of the highest excellence have redounded to the honour of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Nelcia Robinson Coordinator, CDW

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 13.

Tribute

Thompson given a heroÊs farewell John Gilbert Thompson (1930 - 2018).

Left: The draped casket leaves the Kingstown Methodist Church.

Dr. Jerrol Thompson, delivering the Eulogy.

by PATMOS RICHARDS LAST SATURDAY 17TH MARCH, John Gilbert Thompson, former member of parliament for the North Leeward constituency, was laid to rest at the Fitz Hughes cemetery in Chateaubelair, following a funeral service at the Kingstown Methodist Church.

He was accorded a full State Funeral.

In attendance at the service were the Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, current parliamentarians on both the government and opposition benches, former parliamentarians, in addition to a wide circle of relatives and friends.

An avalanche of tributes came from several persons: Sandra Thompson, niece of the deceased who lived in England, recalled and attributed her uncle’s inspiration to her success in life; Dada Simon, Thompson’s granddaughter, and his close friend, Edgar ‘Quammie’ Lewis, celebrated his life in poem and speech respectively; Deborah Dyer, St. Clair Robertson, Anesta Alexander, Pastor Gleva Burke and Sir Vincent Beache recounted his benevolent services to Vincentians and in particular his commitment to the

people of North Leeward and the St. Vincent Labour Party.

Minister of Health and the Environment Luke Browne, chipped in with another glowing tribute to the late parliamentarian whom he regarded as a mentor and an exemplary human being.

The eulogy was delivered by Thompson’s son, former Minister of Telecommunication Dr. Jerrol Thompson. He gave a comprehensive history of his late father’s political life, his social connections with persons from all walks of life, his humanitarian services generally, and the respect he commanded and the high regard in which he was held.

Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves culminated the avalanche of tributes, expressing sentiments which hinged on John Thompson’s down to earth reasoning on social and political issues with ordinary folks, his contribution to the body politic of this country, and the lives he touched generally across St. Vincent.

When the funeral procession arrived in his native Chateaubelair, there was a sizeable cortege outside

The funeral procession to Mr. Thompson’s final resting place in Fitz Hughes.

the Methodist Church awaiting the arrival of Thompson’s body for the final viewing. The first public viewing was on Friday 16th in the assembly

chambers in Parliament.

Members of the local constabulary, immaculately adorned in their uniforms entertained with uplifting gospel music, to the delight of onlookers, and the North Leeward funeral band, the Rose Bank Drummers, also made musical gospel inputs to salute and celebrate the life of an elder stateman, John Gilbert Thompson.

The state funeral for John Gilbert Thompson was regarded by residents of North Leeward as a heroic farewell.

The gun salutes sent out by members of the constabulary were particularly fascinating.

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14. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Culture Feature

Greiggs Heritage Festival attracts large crowd several cultural performances with aspects of the Garifuna influence very pronounced.

Buoyed by the patronage, Head of the Greiggs Garifuna Council John Nero acknowledged: “I am very pleased because Cooking the cassava from which every year we are the ‘juice’ will be removed. improving on our presentation, and we to evaluate each year’s effort, have a motto that we should with a view to make the next not be making elementary year even better. mistakes.”

At last Wednesday’s Nero said that the festival Festival, the Council continues to evolve from a recognised Leon Morris, a simple honouring back in 1996, with exponential growth pioneer in the transportation system in the Greiggs visible in the last five years. community.

He underscored the need Morris, though, was not on not to rest on their laurels, but hand to accept his award.

A section of the crowd last week Wednesday at the transformed Greiggs Central Playing Field.

Shaped and ready for the fire.

ANOTHER HOSTING HERITAGE FESTIVAL at the Greiggs Playing Field, indicates that the activity is fast becoming a staple for many Vincentians, who journey to that inland community to savour what is on offer.

Celebrated on National Heroes Day — March 14 - annually, this year’s festival provided insight of the Garifuna life, as the host venue was transformed into a typical Garifuna Village, with the erection of nine huts, including a Cayo.

Persons attending got to sample much of the cuisine used by the Garifuna people, and got first -hand experience of some of the preparations.

In demand by most patrons were the madongo dumplings, the doucana and the cassava bread, commonly referred to as “bam- bam”.

Apart from the cuisine, it was evident that there was a cultural awareness, as many persons, from babies to the elderly, were attired in clothing which reflected the symbols of the Garifuna heritage.

Additionally, there were

National Heroes Day 2018 in Fancy

It all begins with the early morning hours of VERY OFTEN, IT IS THE STAR of This photographic peeling ‘the the movie that collects the awards, but essay focuses on the food’, the persons who make the movie a persons behind the whether it be reality are really the heroes…and it scenes who prepare sweet was no different for National Heroes the local dishes, peel Day 2018 as we took time off to reflect the cassava and sweet potatoes, cassava or on the struggles by erstwhile leader, Chief Joseph Chatoyer and the people Continued on Page 15. what have you. he led and cared for.

Cassava bread being ‘baked’ in the Cayo hut last Wednesday at the Greiggs Central Playing Field.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 15.

News

National Heroes Day 2018 in Fancy make an honest dollar. marketed and managed The work gives a properly. potatoes, grate the glimpse of one of many coconut, plait the hair, ‘activities’ that take place take care of our security, - unknown to the safety and vehicular hundreds of patrons - in traffic and the vendors the ‘Cultural Capital’ who use this activity as a Fancy. golden opportunity to What is urgently needed is a cultural village where families can spend weekends away from home, living in a well-kept wattle and daub grass roof house, sleeping on a ‘branka’ or in a hammock, and of course bathing in a river. The cuisine being local fresh fish or goat, farine and other ground provisions cooked on coals or open wood fires.

This would provide income for entrepreneurs in this area, and would also be a solid tourism But we must extract the ‘bitter selling point, once juice’ from the cassava.

Continued from Page 14.

Now it’s hardened and ready for the ‘copper’ – to be heated, stirred and made into farine.

Submitted by: Donald De Riggs.

And if it’s cassava, we have to grind it into a thick paste.

16. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 17.

View (cont’d)

In response to National heroes Day: A reflection of the past

Continued from Page 8. out of considerations for an educational institution to be named in his honour.

If there were lingering doubts, consult the opinion of Mike Browne and Blazer Williams who were president and an officer of the Teachers’ Union at the time.

Furthermore, there is Chester Rogers, who hailed from South Windward, was a strong member of the party, Principal of the Teachers College, wrote useful pamphlets, composed calypsos, and with Bobby Fraser produced a fascinating radio play. A cultural icon and a people’s oriented man, Chester Rogers could be regarded as Dacon’s foil and certainly deserves better.

We come now to my own teacher, Doris Mc Kie, and her honouring.

First of all, I did write that “I will endorse the choice….” which U.L.P. following his leader telling “a little lie sometimes”, deliberately added a “not” between “will and endorse” to make it say the very opposite of what I really said. Amateurish deception.

As it was, I merely drew the attention of the authorities to other rival claims which must enter the picture in the future. I hereby reserve Yvonne Francis Gibson for the moment and present Viola John a labourite who, starting out with Mrs.

Doris Mc Kie at Wesley Hall in the early 1940’s, went on to be the Headship of various schools including Gomea in West St George; entered the public service where she acquitted herself well; went private in laying G.E.C.C.U. on a firm foundation; was a people’s woman in spreading the word beyond the four walls of the Methodist Church; is a J.P., courtesy the N.D.P.! etcetera.

Actually, Vincent Beache had been a close friend of mine at the time that Ralph called him “Sugar Daddy” and a mere “coconut bat” fit only for beach cricket, not the highest level of Test Cricket to which he likened the political game.

I once wrote that Beache was the best P.M that we never had. Much water has since flowed under the bridge, and in my view, Vincent has plunmetted, whatever the reason.

Straker even more than Vincent was undeserving of a knighthood.

Despite U.L.P. statement to the contrary, I backed Louis to win his seat in 1994, though I was generally supportive of the N.D.P. Louis is steadily deteriorating as M.P, going from bad to worse…”

18. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 19.

Community

JEMS:NY makes another donation FOR THE 5th year, the New Yorkbased, non-profit humanitarian organization JEMS: Hope 4 Home, has donated health care and comfort supplies for use by citizens housed at the Lewis Punnett Home here.

The supplies were handed over to the institution on March 17 by Health Planner and JEMS: Hope 4 Home Local co-ordinator - David Latchman.

The group, headed by Brooklyn resident Carol Simmons, said that they were indeed pleased that the group can help some of the neediest persons in St. Vincent.

She noted that the overall initiative began in 2011, and the group has, since then, made annual donations to several health facilities and communities across the country.

These included: food packages for over 60 persons on each occasion, for residents in North Windward, North Leeward, Central Leeward, East, Central and West Kingstown, Marriaqua and Bequia.

In addition to the food packages, JEMS has provided medical supplies to community clinics in East and West St. George, Union Island and East Kingstown, and school supplies in East St. George.

The Lewis Punnett Home has been on the receiving end of donations since 2013. On the last two occasions, the

Health Planner- David Latchman (centre) and Staff of the Lewis Punnett Home at the handing over. facility would have received pillows sheets, disinfectant, lysol, Clorax, Clorax wipes, among other cleaning supplies including, paper towels, soap, toiletries, pampers, and other disposable linen.

“It certainly is a blessing to give back to our country especially in times of need,” Simmons said, and assured that the group has every intention of continuing to make donations in support of local efforts.

Simmons thanked the many supporters of their fund raising and donations drives, and had a special world of gratitude for Standard Shippers and their team in Brooklyn, New York, for their support over the years in assisting in getting the items to St. Vincent on each occasion, at reduced cost.

Storeroom of the Lewis Punnett Home restocked with donations from Jems, NY.

Carol Simmons (2nd from right) making a presentation to the Lewis Punnett Home in 2017.

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20. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Opting for the same sex Dear George, WHEN MY WIFE told me she was in this exercise group, I felt good. Every morning she and at least four other women would go walking. But I got word that what they were doing was in fact meeting at the house of another female and engaging in flat out same sex activities. The individual who broke the news to me challenged me to go see for myself. I did.

I am now asking those women who encouraged my wife into this worthlessness to let their husbands know what they are into. If they do not, I will have no choice but to show the photos that I have to their unsuspecting husbands.

Also, I am encouraging all those men out there to get out of bed and accompany their wives on the exercise trail.

Such a move might just save your marriage. As for my wife, instead of losing calorie, she has ended up losing me instead.

Broken Dear Broken, No one can blame you for not seeing that one coming. There is a good

chance your wife may very much end up the big loser here. Her reasons for opting to secretly embrace members of the same sex may well be beyond your reasoning; she has made her choice and now has to live with the consequences.

Now is a good time to take a step back and carefully consider your next move. Do not be shy or too proud to seek professional counselling.

George

Kiss and make-up? satisfy my kissing needs? teach your wife to kiss the way you want her to.

Impatient What is the rush?

I HAVE BEEN trying my You need to stop best to teach my wife Dear Impatient, focusing on what your how to kiss, and up to wife is not doing well and now she still cannot get If you are looking for start finding things to it. She is just awful at it, an excuse to practise praise her for. This new and that is very infidelity, do not use approach can change the annoying and frustrating your wife’s kissing course of things for the to me. What would she abilities or lack thereof better. say now if I go out and to do so. You have the find someone who can rest of your marriage to George

Dear George,

Keep on searching but rather redouble your efforts to find that job that would not only pay I HAVE BEEN looking for a job for a the bills but give you great long time now, but to no avail. I have satisfaction. got to a point where I am tempted to do like some friends of mine, and rake George in the dollars by selling my best asset. I could easily make a few hundred dollars a day.

However, I am giving myself a couple more weeks before embarking on this new path, with or without my husband’s consent, and this will be done all in the name of survival.

Dear George,

Desperately suffering Dear Desperately, Sometimes it is a good idea to get help with your job search.

Keep in mind that success can be just one more telephone call or one more resume away. Do not give up,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) A little volleyball or other outdoor sports should be on your agenda. Money problems will get worse if your partner hasn't been playing by the rules. The danger of minor accidents will increase with the turmoil. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You are best to avoid confrontations.

Personal problems may be hanging over your head but don't confront the situation. Get down to business and do the work yourself.

This could be the cause of a dispute that may result in estrangement.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Get back to the comforts of cottage or home.

False information is likely if you listen to idle chatter or gossip. Don't be too eager to spend money that you really don't have.

Expect temper tantrums on the home front if you haven't been letting someone have their way.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Avoid any gossip and be careful that you aren't misinterpreted. Think hard before going into business with friends or family.

Take the initiative and go after your goals.

There could be opposition or temper tantrums on the home front.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You will meet some interesting people if you at tend promotional functions. You may jump from the frying pan into the fire if you make a move this week. Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. Have a heart-to-heart talk with family and find out what the problems are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) This is a great day for a trip. Offer good conversation and a nice soothing lunch. Be prepared for an active but rewarding day. They may cost you dearly.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You should be able to make major career gains if you plan your intentions carefully. Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you. Avoid any petty ego confrontations; they could lead to estrangement if you aren't careful. Lovers may prove unworthy of your affection.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't let your personal partner hold you back.

You will be able to pick up on future trends if you keep your eyes peeled for unique ideas.

Work quietly on your own and you will forge ahead. Comfort is a necessity. Check your motives.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Try not to get into disputes that will lead to estrangement's. Stress may cause minor health ailments. You have worked hard and the payback is now. Your emotional partner will push the right buttons this week.

Your lucky day this week will be Saturday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You need time to think things through. Do not make rash decisions about your personal life.

You are best to keep your cash in a safe place.

Underhandedness will affect your reputation.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Stay mellow. Uncertainties about your personal life are probable. If possible, rely on coworkers to back your objectives, and talk to superiors in order to get approval. Taking on too much won't help the situation.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Listen to the advice given by those with experience. Your changing attitudes may be causing concern for your partner. Get involved in a competitive sport that will bring the challenges you thrive on. Although up setting, changes in your domestic situation will be favorable.

ACROSS 1. Rotate 5. Title 9. Become firm 12. Seaward 13. Soon 14. Legal science 15. Flying mammals 16. Hawaiian honeycreeper 17. Period of human life 18. Authenticating mark 20. Architectural feature 22. Messenger 25. Entertained 26. Loudly 27. Aborigine of Borneo 28. Part of verb to do 29. Not 30. Lever for rowing 33. Rounded lump 35. In an inadequate manner 37. Joined 40. Walk with short steps 41. One-called protozoa 42. Asian prince 43. Long-leaved lettuce 44. Speed contest 46. Exclamations of surprise 50. Consumed 51. Blue-gray 52. Snare 53. Rainy 54. Shout 55. TV award DOWN 1. Label 2. North American nation 3. Soak 4. Capital of the Bahamas 5. Nymph presiding over rivers 6. Indigo 7. Cut down grass

8. Riddle 9. Thick slices 10. Bird of prey 11. Coarse wool cloth 19. Antiquity 21. Diving bird 22. Did possess 23. Biblical high priest 24. Slender bar 25. Affirmative vote 27. Tap gently 29. Incline head 30. Eccentric 31. Entirely 32. Cereal grass 33. Soviet secret police

34. Close at hand 35. Bleat of a sheep 36. Congenitally attached 37. Parrot 38. Show emotion

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 21.

39. Set again 40. Caracole 42. Kilocalorie 45. Malt beverage 47. Upper limb 48. Thigh 49. Engage in espionage

22. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2018. 23.

SVGNAÊs new executive installed

DORIS MC INTOSH was returned unopposed as President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA) at the Association’s Annual General Meeting, staged at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, last week Thursday.

Mc Intosh, who is into her second stint as President, having served the maximum three

terms 2004- 2010, when she took over from the long-standing head — Gloria Ballantyne. She returned as President in 2016 after serving as the SVGNA’s Secretary under Dellarice Duncan.

On her re- election to the presidency last week Thursday, Mc Intosh promised to continue the work she and her executive began during their last term, including

getting the senior national team back on the World Rankings.

Also elected unopposed were First Vice President — Natasha Stapleton, along with Secretary- Ruth Ann Williams, and TreasurerNeteko Quammie.

Stapleton, who has previously served in that position, replaced Jacintha Ballantyne, who did not stand for re-

(Standing from left): Skiddy Francis-Crick, Thelma Foster, Neteko Quammie, Natasha Stapleton, Geshell Peters, Cheryl Alexander, Oneil Cockburn. Seated is Doris Mc Intosh. election.

Meanwhile, Williams, a former national Under23 netballer, and who is new to the executive, was elected in absentia, while Quammie, is serving his second two-year term.

Another new face is Geshell Peters who got the nod over Sylvorn Harry and Wollis Christopher for the Second Vice President

position. Peters earned completed with the 15 votes, while Harry, election of two Committee Members in who served in the post since 2014, gained 9 and Oneil Cockburn and Cheryl Alexander, who Christopher- 6.

Thelma Foster, who were chosen ahead of has been serving for Dianne Questelles, Julia Matthews and Shenica many years in various positions, beat Oneil Haynes.

At the vote count, Cockburn, 24-6, to take the position of Games Cockburn received 16 Secretary. and Alexander-9. Both And Skiddy Francis — Questelles and Matthews Crick, a scoring machine got 9 votes and Haynesfor St Vincent and the 5. The executive has a Grenadines for close to two year life. thirty years, made the Thursday’s Annual step into administration General Meeting, also when she was elected as received the President’s been representing United players.”

Survivors in the local The former Girls’ High Public Relations Officer. Report, the Report from She defeated the Committee of competition since she School student is incumbent, Dianne Management and the was in Grade Six, will presently a first year Treasurer’s Report. represent the Windward student at the Division of Questelles 17-13.

The executive was Islands Under 19 Female Arts, Science and team in the annual General Studies of the Cricket West Indies SVG Community College, Invitational Female where she is pursuing Tournament starting studies Biology, next week in Trinidad.

Chemistry and Spanish.

“I felt elated to be The young lady finds selected on the no difficulty marrying Windward Islands team her cricket and her and also to be part of the academics and is intent senior national training on doing well in both squad.” endeavours.

She sees this A section of persons attending last week Cordel Jack (left) and daughter Xharia Jack during opportunity as the I.B.A.ALLEN Thursday’s Annual General Meeting of the SVGNA. a break in a national trial match. beginning of a bright future in which she hopes to emulate her NEVER IN HER WILDEST “When she started mother. “Playing for the DREAMs did former West showing interest, I said West Indies Female team Indies female cricketer to her Take it seriously is my goal, but this will Cordel Jack think she and listen to the take a lot of hard work,” would be competing coaches’, but I never Xharia said. against her daughter – thought we would be As for coming up Xharia Jack – for a place competing in national against her mother, the on the SVG National trials,” Cordel said.

SMASHERS AND RADCLIFFE have score 20. younger Jack said, Female Cricket team.

“I recall while in booked their spots in the semi finals of Radcliffe Too made light work of “Knowing her ability to The reality is that primary school she the National Sunday League 50 Overs Combined Youths, beating them by 8 bat, it inspires me to lift mother and daughter played in the West St Cricket Competition. wickets at Stubbs. Combined Youths my game and be were named in the George competition and Smashers secured their berth when mustered 113 from 28 overs. determined and show my national training squad, her interest has grown they beat Unique Warriors by 16 runs Ramando Mars top scored with 26. true capability and and have been competing and developed ever in their quarter finals clash.

Shorn Browne took 4 for 39 and ability.” against each other in the since,” Cordel recalled.

Smashers made 156 from 23 overs, Kensley Joseph 3 for 36. Radcliffe Too And should both of ongoing trial matches at The elder Jack Kirton Lavia leading with 42. Joseph raced to 114 for the loss of 2 wickets in the Sion Hill and Stubbs admitted, “I will feel very them be selected to Medford took 4 for 39 and Isaac 17 overs, Calvert Joseph 44, Shorn playing field, with a view proud, should both of us represent SVG, Xharia Haywood 4 for 41 seemed to have set Browne 27 and Zan Dabreo 21. to be selected to the make the national team,” confessed, “It will be an Unique Warriors on their way to This Sunday, Keegan’s Bequia X1 achievement we will national team to and assured, “I will victory. That was not to be as Darren face E&J Robertson Construction cherish forever.” represent SVG in the continue to guide her Russell, 4 for 29, set about making it North Windward Youths in another In the meantime, she inaugural Windward and let her know she will quarter finals match at Arnos Vale is looking to perform well uncomfortable for them. They Islands Female have to work hard to eventually got to 139 from 41 overs, Two. Tournament scheduled achieve her goal in life.” even as she learns “as Joelano Neil top scoring with 24, and for St Lucia from the 12 Xharia Jack, who has much as I can from the Haywood returning with the bat to I.B.A.ALLEN coaches and senior to 22 of April.

Mother, daughter square off in trial matches

Smashers, Radcliffe Too into semi-finals

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24. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Huggins and Gun Munro take Mixed Doubles Tennis title THE PAIR of Khir Huggins and Michelle Gun Munro pieced together their skills last Saturday afternoon at the Grand View Hotel Tennis court, to cop the Grassroot Tennis Club’s Lewis Pharmacy Mixed Doubles tournament.

A 6-3 defeat on Corey Huggins and Sherri Ann John, landed Khir Huggins and Gun Munro the title.

In getting to the final, Khir Huggins and Gun Munro saw off Akeisha Lowe and Nikotello

Mixed Doubles winners- Khir Huggins (centre) and Michelle Gun Munro, accept their prizes from Curtis Lewis of Lewis Pharmacy.

Curtis Lewis of Lewis Pharmacy hands over runner – up prize to Corey Huggins and Sherri Ann John.

Providence 8-6, and Corey Huggins and John beat the duo of Onike Spann and Naudeen Harry, 8-4.

Eight pairs contested the tournament.

It was the first time in over 15 years that a Mixed Doubles Tennis Tournament has been

Doubles tournament has again taken place, lamented on the amount of time it took to be realised.

He promised that the Grassroot Tennis Club would continue to push for tournaments of this nature, as “we seek to get women involved in the sport of Tennis.”

played here.

Speaking at the Closing Ceremony last Saturday afternoon, Head of the Grassroot Tennis Club - Grant Connell had a bittersweet feeling at the occasion.

Connell, whilst thankful that a Mixed

As part of the plan to continue the involvement of women in Tennis, Connell informed that a women’s doubles tournament is in the pipeline.

But the immediate plan of the Grassroot Tennis Club is the hosting of a Blow Out Tournament.

Twelve heading for CARIFTA championships Calliaqua group launches USA-based Shafiqua Maloney heads a twelvemember team - seven females and five males that will represent this country at the 47th edition of the Junior CARIFTA Track and Field Championships, scheduled for March 30 to April 2, 2018, in the Bahamas.

Shafiqua Maloney, Six of the females are set currently on to compete in the Under 20 scholarship at category, with the other in Southern Illinois the Under 17. That lone University, USA, Under 17 competitor is leads a team of debutante Ulanda Lewis who twelve to this is registered for the 100m and 200m. year’s CARIFTA The other female Championships. competitors are: Shafiqua Maloney — 200m, 400m, 4x400m Relay; Krystal Foster - Shot Put, Discus; Annicea Richards 4x400m; Daria Matthias — 100m, 200m; Tamara Woodley — 800m, 4x400m Relay; and Zita Vincent — 800m, 1500m, 4x400m.

As far as the males are concerned, Desroy Jordan and Yonick Murray will compete in the Under 20 grouping, with Jordan down to do the 800m and 1500m, and Murray the 400m.

The Under 17 category will see the following doing duty: Handel Roban — 400m, 800m; Jevonie Lavia and Uroy Ryan - High Jump.

The team will be coached

by Rawlson Morgan and Handel Roban managed by was the top Chantal athlete at the Legaire.

SVGS 2018 Athletics Meet.

Sports Against Crime activities A FIVE-A-SIDE FOOTBALL (Soccer) Street Competition on National Heroes Day, 14th March, at the Culture Pot Square in Calliaqua, kicked off activities of the Calliaqua Sports Group (CSG).

Formed 1st February this year, the CSG’s main aim is to engage the youths of Calliaqua in sporting activities, as a deterrent from crime.

President of CSG Gibron Bailey speaking at the launch, said. “The group’s intention is to introduce sporting competitions, mainly Action in one of the matches organised by the CSG Street Soccer, Basketball Pot Square on National Heroes Day. and Netball in the rewarded for outstanding efforts by the group is community, where proactive, and although community members can performances.”

Bailey said that the the Calliaqua community participate and be at present is not saddled with the concerns of crime, they are taking a preventative approach.

“We have the youths in the area… Some of them are unemployed, they looking for work and are on the blocks, so we are Members of the CSG. President Gibron Bailey is third from organising such activities to left.

at the Calliaqua Culture motivate them to get involved in sports in the meantime”, Bailey explained.

The CSG President informed that the group’s tag line for its events is ‘Sports Against Crime’.

Eight teams contested the inaugural event dubbed ‘Soccer Against Crime’.

Support for the event came from business places located in the Calliaqua area, namely Garnett Henry of Garnett Auto Clean, Four Shells and Big Tigga’s Auto.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. 25.

Sports

Another ‘gigantic level of exposure’ for SVG at Penn Relays events, which run from Thursday, April 26 to Saturday, April 28 — will feature boys’ and girls’ teams in the 4x100 and 4x400m.

TSSS girls’ team will compete on FOR THE PAST seven years, athletes from April 26, and the boys’ team on April St. Vincent and the Grenadines have 27 and April 28. been undertaking the annual trek to SVGS — an all-boys school, the Philadelphia to compete in the largest nation’s oldest high school — will field and oldest high school track and field a team in the 4x100m on April 27 and event in the world at the Franklin Field April 28.

Stadium at the University of “I am proud and pleased to report Pennsylvania. that this program of only eight years “This year promises another has already produced a number of gigantic level of exposure for the entire aspiring athletes now attending and country of St. Vincent and the competing in USA institutions, Grenadines,” said James Cordice, the including Olympian Brandon Clare Valley-born pioneering Valentine-Parris, now at St Augustine coordinator of the Vincentian University in North Carolina,” Cordice contingents at the Relays Carnival, in said. a VINCENTIAN interview.

Valentine-Parris was among the Like last year, when St. Vincent first batch of TSSS athletes to compete and the Grenadines featured two high in the games. schools for the very first time — in Cordice said both high schools will previous years, only one school arrive in Philadelphia in late April competed — the Thomas Saunders “and will be hosted by the synergetic Secondary School (TSSS) and the St. love and kindness of hundreds of Vincent and the Grammar School Vincentians and other nationals in the (SVGS) will participate in the 124th USA and Canada.” running of the Meet.

A number of Vincentians will The TSSS — the first Vincentian travel from major US cities, including high school to be featured in the New York, to render boisterous Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

support to the athletes.

As they Vincentians resident in the USA, are expected, once again, have done in to be at the Relays to give support to the teams from SVG. previous years, nationals will join the Council of St. events.

Vincent and the Grenadines Last year, Organizations, U.S.A. Inc. (COSAGO), Penn Relays the umbrella Vincentian group in the organizers put the US, on a bus trip on the last day of the three-day total carnival to support the athletes. attendance at the On April 7, Club St. Vincent, one meet at 108,912, of the older Vincentian cultural and with 22,894 fans educational groups in Brooklyn, will on Thursday, organize a walk-a-thon to support the 38,598 on Friday, Vincentian athletes at the Penn and 47,420 on the Relays. The event takes place at climaxing Marine Park in Brooklyn, starting at Saturday.

9:00 a.m.

“More “Let us say a special prayer for athletes have run the safety, guidance and protection of James Cordice our athletes and support staff, as they at the Penn Relays continues to than at any single value the continue to make our nation more proud and visible by using sports as an meet in the world,” exposure that said Penn Relays academic vehicle, which is my vision SVG gets from its organizers, adding participation in and intention for this program,” that “more Cordice said. the Penn Relays. spectators have At the Relays Carnival, over watched the meet 15,000 athletes from high schools, than any in the world, except the colleges and track clubs throughout Olympics and World Championships.”

North America and abroad, primarily Jamaica, compete in more than 300

Greaves’ century inspires Radcliffe’s big win A CENTURY by opening batsman Darren Greaves was the key to FLOW Radcliffe’s 199-run win over Guardian General Kimson Saints, in one Dalzill took 6 of the matches for 26 to help in last Victors One weekend’s to victory round of over Team fixtures in the Rivals.

Premier Division National 50 Overs Tournament.

Greaves hit 139 (17 fours and 4 sixes) from 212 balls and shared in a first-wicket partnership of 250 with Romano Pierre who hit 95.

FLOW Radcliffe, asked to take first knock, posted 315 from 50 overs. Guardian General Saints never seemed it settle and were dismissed for 112 from 33 overs, Seon Sween top-scoring with 29. Othneil Lewis was the pick of the bowlers for Radcliffe with figures of 4 for 39. Deron Greaves and Dyke Cato each

had 2 wickets for 14 runs.

In another weekend encounter, Victors One beat Team Rivals by 34 runs in a low scoring game at Park Hill.

Victors One made 141 from 36 overs. Chrisroy John topscored with 38. Orlanzo Jackson took 4 for 30, Deighton Butler 3 for 34.

Team Rivals in reply made 107 from 23 overs. Hyron Shalllow with 35 was the only significant scorer. Fast bowler

Kimron Dalzell bagged 6 for 25 and Alston Bobbwas once again among the wickets, taking 3 for 29.

North Leeward recorded their first win since their promotion to the Premier Division when they beat Police Two by 73 runs at Sion Hill.

North Leeward made 226 for 9 from 47 overs, with contributions coming from Leshawn Lewis 36, Winston Samuel 29, and Elron Lewis

26. Nigel Small, Andrew Thomas, Cosnel Morris and Sylvan Spencer took 2 wickets each. Police Two in reply were bowled out for 153 from 35 overs.

Cosnel Morris hit 25. Donald Delpesche bagged 5 for 43.

This weekend, FLOW Radcliffe play Team Rivals at Arnos Vale One, and Victors

Darren Greaves on his way to his 139. one oppose Guardian General Saints at Sion Hill.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Survivors, Tigress share Female Cricket title UNITED SURVIVORS and JG Tigress are joint champions of this year’s National Women’s Super40 Cricket Competition.

Both teams finished on nine points when the Competition came to an end last weekend.

But while JG Tigress earned their final points without having to take to the field, winning by default over Radcliffe Girls in a match scheduled for Park Hill, United Survivors had to earn theirs the old fashioned way, and they did so in fine style against Super Strikers.

Veterans Samantha Lynch and Cordel Jack ensured a resounding win for United Survivors when they contributed 89 not out and 76 not out respectively, in their team’s total of 204 for 1 from 30 overs, the match having been reduced to 30 overs because of a late start.

Jack then took the ball to JG Tigress

remove 4 Super Strikers United wickets for 19 runs to help Survivors. keep them to a total of 106 from 18 overs. Another veteran Juliana Nero was Strikers’ best batter with 26.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

26. FRIDAY, MARCH 23, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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HOME SERVICES 455-5018/431-0539

RICHARD ACOSTA Kingstown Chapel Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment Kingstown Cemetery

GARNET ANDREW HARRY aka John Jahstone Awakening Christian Pilgrim Faith Church Sunday 18th March, 2018 Viewing: 12 Noon Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Mc Fun Cemetery

BYRON DOUGLAS BROWNE Nazarene Church Arnos Vale Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment Kingstown Cemetery

EARL EVERETH ARRINGTON Mt. Ararat Spiritual Baptist Church Sunday 18th March, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

WINSTON CORNELIUS HENRY Joyful Praise Tabernacle Richland Park Monday 19th March, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

MARGARET ELIZABETH DOUGLAS Nee Lynch Kingstown Methodist Church Friday 16th March, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

FITZROY BENNET RICHARDSON Barrouallie S.D.A Church Sunday 18th March, 2018 Viewing: 2:30 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

ENOS LEOPOLD CAINE DOVR NQRZQ DV ³7HDFKHU´ Biabou Evangelical Church Saturday 17th March, 2018 Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Biabou Cemetery

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

MARCH 23, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.12

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SHARPES SHOOTING SPREE CRACKED Redemption Sharpes, as well as Redemption Sharpes residents TWO MONTHS after a barrage of gunfire Rodondo Allen, 20, Maurice Charles, at the Redemption Sharpes Playing Field 18, Georginiho Richards, 21, and Leon resulted in the death of one man and Neverson, 20. several others nursing injuries, police Reports are that around 8 p.m. on have laid seven charges in connection January 24, a group of young men, with the incident. including those in question, were Mwata Henry, 25-year-old farmer of ‘hanging out’ under the pavilion at the Redemption Sharpes, has been Redemption Sharpes Playing Field charged on one count of murder and when they were ambushed and shot six counts of attempted murder. at. Jahbarry Charles, who was shot in Henry is charged with the murder the chest, was rushed to the Milton of Jahbarry Charles, 29, of Cato Memorial Hospital where he was Redemption Sharpes. He is also treated, but succumbed to his injury accused of attempting to murder the same night. Several others Shemol Richardson and Raheem survived injuries during the incident, Clifton, both 17-year-old students of while some escaped unhurt.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

‘Chocolate’ pleads guilty to murder GEORGE ‘Chocolate’ Franklyn George ‘Chocolate’ will be sentenced March 27 for Franklyn has thrown a series of violent offences in himself at the mercy his neighbourhood, September of the court by 2011. pleading guilty to The Campden Park multiple charges. businessman pleaded guilty to multiple charges, when the High Court Criminal Assizes continued on Monday.

Two of these indictments are for murder, stemming from the deaths of two women - Ingrid Jack and Hazel Ann James. They died from gunshot wounds.

Franklyn will also be sentenced for several other offences, including attempted murder and other firearm-related matters arising from the drama.

Corporal Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCW) led the investigations into the matters.

Henry, who was unrepresented, was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. He was not required to plea to the charges as they were laid indictably.

Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre indicated that the prosecution was asking for one trial, and intends to call about 20 witnesses.

Pierre also asked the Court for a three-month adjournment.

The Chief Magistrate granted his request and adjourned the matter to June 25.

The investigations are being led by Corporal Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU).

Henry had initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on an attempted murder charge, in connection with another incident at Redemption Sharpes, in which Rayshawn Gibson, 23, of that community, was shot in his left arm on February 22.

Henry was remanded, then, after Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche strongly objected to bail, on the grounds that the accused was a person of interest in a much more serious matter. He was slated for bail review, but was subsequently charged with agreeing with others to commit the offence of murder on Collrise Pompey of Redemption Sharpes. The

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

Mwata Henry (centre) leaves the Serious Offences Court in the company of fellow murder conspirator Dwayne Stephens, under guard of investigating officer Cpl. Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit. conspiracy offence was reportedly committed between February 27 and March 3 at Redemption Sharpes.

Pompey, 25, was reportedly shot in the head around 8 a.m. on March 2 while sitting in the vicinity of the Redemption Sharpes Playing Field, close to the public road. He died on the spot. Up to press time Wednesday, investigations into that matter were ongoing.

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