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FRIDAY,

AUGUST 25, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.34

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

FERGUSON ON TOP AGAIN Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA

A full day

FIVE YEARS AGO, Iana Ferguson grabbed the nation’s attention by placing first in the then Common Entrance Examination.

Now, she has repeated that feat of excellence by being this country’s top performer in the 2017 Caribbean Examination Council’s Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC).

Ferguson was successful in 19 subjects, which included Grade I passes in Biology, Caribbean History, Chemistry, Economics, Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM) , English A and B, French, Geography, Human/Social Biology, Information/Technology, Integrated Science, Office Administration, Physics, Principles of Business, Principles of Accounts, Social Studies and Spanish.

The lone Grade II was obtained in Ad Maths, but she had already achieved a Grade 1 in Mathematics while in Form Four.

This, therefore, means that Ferguson has obtained 20 subjects.

Iana’s journey is as amazing as the end result.

She explained that her last two years in secondary school were unlike most other students’. Her day usually got stated around 7am, at which time she was already at class — private classes.

Explaining that at the Girls’ High School, students are required to do a minimum of nine subjects, and in order that she be in a position to do so, she had to make her arrangements for outside tutoring.

So that meant that on some mornings, she was in a class at 7, following which she would then head to school for regular work load.

Following the usual morning session, when most students would enjoy the time allotted for the lunch period, Ferguson said that she would again go to another session of class.

And the process would continue five days a week, including after-school

Iana Ferguson seems to be making it a habit of leading the field.

BETRICIA: READY FOR THE FUTURE BETRICIA STOWE said that, although she may not have achieved the grades she was hoping for, it was still quite an achievement to obtain 13 passes in one sitting in this

year’s Caribbean Examinations Council Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC).

And having sat and passed

Betricia Stowe and her mother, her number one supporter, share a deserving moment of satisfaction.

Mathematics while still a Fourth Form student, young Stowe boasts 14 CSEC subject passes.

Continued on Page 3.

afternoon classes that ran until 5 or 6 o’clock.

No stress One can only think of the stress of having such a schedule, but Ferguson told THE VINCENTIAN that this in no way took a toll on her physically or emotionally.

In fact, she was still able to sneak in some time to learn to play tennis (something that her sister insisted on), pluck away at the violin, or even pound away at the keys of the piano.

“I loved doing what I did, so doing it was fun,” she said, adding that she was taught from a young age never to regret anything, and to always live life to the fullest.

So, although the plan was to obtain all Grade I’s, she was not at all disappointed with the one Grade II, saying that she was satisfied with the overall effort.

Come September, Ferguson will be turning over a new leaf in her education career.

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, AUGUST 11, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Crime

Vincentians found dead in adopted homeland TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO police are investigating the death of Vincentian national, 59-year-old Fitzgerald Dasent, who was found stabbed to death at his Matelot home, in Trinidad last Saturday.

The man’s body was discovered around 5:30

pm by his stepson.

According to the Trinidadian press, police are yet to establish a motive for the killing of Dasent who, they said, migrated to the twin island republic some 20 years ago.

Dasent is the second

Vincentian national to have been killed in Trinidad for the year.

In January, Vincentian born Dexter Williams, 43, and his Trinidad-born brother Lloyd Johnson, 31, were ambushed and killed as they slept in their La Pena Street

Canada, with trauma/stab wounds about Another Vincie killed the body.

Susan Dasent’s death Jack, mother followed hours after it of the 31was reported that the year-old body of a Vincentian woman was discovered at Vincentian woman Virgil Virgil Jack-Jordan was said to have a park in Toronto, Jack-Jordan, been recently married. (Facebook whose body photo) was discovered partially discovered at a park in submerged in a stream Toronto, Canada last and with signs of trauma, weekend, was at a loss by a park-goer. for words.

According to media When THE VINCENTIAN contacted reports, Toronto police indicated that JackJack on Tuesday, she Jordan suffered multiple indicated that she did not have much to say at penetrating stab wounds.

The report further the moment, as it related to her daughter’s death. indicated that the woman She did not offer much was last seen by relatives around 2:30 pm last week except to say that she Friday. was “not there,” and as The deceased was far as any information pertaining to the second recently married, but her husband, up to the time of three daughters was of her death, was a concerned, her “hands resident here in St were tied.”

Vincent. (DD) The body of JackJordon, a former Georgetown resident, was discovered last Saturday around 12:45 pm at Derrydowns Park, in the area of Jane and Finch in Tyre tracks, left near to where Virgil Jack-Jordan’s body was found, are Toronto.

Her body considered by police as possibly was being related to the crime. home in Laventille.

Matelot, where Fitzgerald Dasent was found dead, is one of the last villages on Trinidad’s NorthEastern Coast.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 3.

News 3 GHS still Number One

THE GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL has maintained its academic dominance, recording the best results among secondary schools here in the 2017 Caribbean Examinations Council Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC).

Based on the preliminary results published by the Ministry of Education, the Girls’ High School recorded a 95 percent overall pass rate, followed by the St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (90.64 percent), the St Vincent Grammar School (87.56 percent), the Thomas Saunders Secondary School (86.06 percent) and the St Martin’s Secondary School (82.39 percent).

The top individual performer in this year’s CSEC examinations was Iana Ferguson of the Girls’ High School. She secured 19 subjects — 18 Grade Is and one Grade I. Three students obtained 13 subject passes, including the top student at the St Vincent Grammar School, Shane Cadogan. Four students obtained 12 subject passes and 31 students obtained 11 subject passes.

According to the press release, there was a slight decrease in the number of

passes recorded between Grades I and III, moving from 75.15 percent in 2016 to 74.66 percent this year.

There was an 11.40 percent Grade I pass rate, down from 12.30 percent in 2016, and for Grade II passes, this went down from 28.52 percent in 2016 to 27.33 percent this year.

There were more Grade III passes recorded this year, 34.52 percent compared to 33.84 percent last year.

Michelle Beache, Headmistress (Ag) at the GHS, explained that despite the good showing, this year’s

results were a 1.3 percent drop over those of last year.

“But still we did very well,” she said, and commended the students, saying that they did work hard and it showed in the results, with students getting ‘A’ profiles in 12 subject areas.

Among the top performers for the school this year, other than Ferguson, were Betricia Stowe who obtained 13 passes and Rachelle Bradshaw and Aranique Jackson both with 12 passes.

In second place was SJCK, and according to Antoinette Jardine - Principal (Ag) of the

St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, among the top performers this year were Rodiva Ragguette, Jonisa John — both with nine passes including six Grade Is - and Ariah Scott, Shachia Nedd, Azariah Abbott and Kareem Singh, all recording five Grade Is. Shiann Bullock and GailAnn Pierre both obtained 10 passes. Fourteen others obtained nine passes, and eighteen students obtained eight passes.

And rounding up the

Betricia: Ready for the future told THE VINCENTIAN. She explained that her In all, she obtained eight Grade scheduled was such that she had Is, four Grade IIs and two Grade to write Chemistry and Theatre IIIs. Arts on the same day, with a She obtained Grade I passes in mere five-minute break between English A, Mathematics (which the papers. she earned a year ago), History, But she was nevertheless Information/Technology, satisfied with her overall effort Electronic Document Preparation although she admitted to not and Management, Office being a very disciplined individual Administration, Theater Arts and as it pertained to getting school Principles of Business. work done.

Grade IIs were obtained in Stowe said that she had to French, Social Studies, Physics ‘force’ herself into a routine, and Biology, and the two Grade buckled down, and made sure she IIIs were in Ad Mathematics and spent quality time studying, Chemistry. focusing on the subjects she said “I feel really good that I am she knew were challenging. second for my school, but when I On reflection, she said that she initially got my results, I was was grateful to her teachers and upset about Chemistry,” Stowe friends and God, and all those Continued from Frontpage.

who supported her along the journey.

But she was particularly thankful to mom Patricia Baptiste who she said was her number one supporter.

“There were times when I thought that I could not do it anymore, but then she helped me to start over again and I was able to do it,” Stowe said.

She will be entering the Division of Arts, Science and General Studies of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College where she intends to further her studies in Maths, Biology, Chemistry and IT. She admits that she expects the Math and Chemistry to the most challenging for her.

top three was the Grammar School whose Headmaster, Curtis King, indicated that this year’s result show an overall decrease of 6.9 percent over the 2016 figure.

Cadogan, the top student, recorded all Grade I passes, including a Grade I in Mathematics, as a Fourth Form student.

Two other students recorded 13 passes; one obtained 12 passes and six recorded 11 passes. (DD)

Ferguson on top again

Continued from Frontpage.

She said that she will be doing Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and the mandatory Communication Studies at the SVG Community College Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies.

Seems like a tall order, but Ferguson remains optimistic and does not seem to be at all bothered by any challenges that may come her way.

For now, she offers the advice to others not to have regrets, pursue something that you are truly passionate about — it is only then that you will be successful at it — and continue to study while managing your time wisely.

She was grateful to God, for guidance and wisdom, her various teachers, her peers, but most importantly, her mother who she said was in full support of the decisions she made, especially the one about wanting to write 19 subjects in one sitting.

V Six years for Uzi carrier 4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

TWENTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD Akeem Ferdinand of Rockies is into his fifth day of a six-year sentence for possession of a prohibited weapon, to wit, a 9mm Uzi. Ferdinand was also sentenced to two years for having 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition. He pleaded guilty to both charges.

The sentences, handed down by Senior Magistrate Bertie Pompey at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, are to run concurrently.

Pompey took into consideration Ferdinand’s guilty plea and that he had no previous convictions; but highlighted the fact that firearms are responsible for a substantial number of the homicides here, and that the area where the gun was intercepted is close to a village where there was a recent spate of shootings, including a homicide.

He noted that the Uzi was manufactured in Israel and used by the military.

“It was not created for hunting; it was designed to kill,” the Senior Magistrate stressed.

Members of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) intercepted a vehicle in which Ferdinand, along with Mwata Henry, 25, of Redemption Sharpes, and Marlon Wyllie, 34, of Murray’s Village, were travelling, around 10pm, August 15, at Murray’s Village.

When the lawmen stopped the rental vehicle (a motor car) and shone their light into the vehicle, Ferdinand was seen fidgeting with something.

The men were asked to put their hands up and to exit the vehicle.

Nothing illegal was found on their person, but during a search of the vehicle, the gun was found on the mat infront of the seat next to the driver, where Ferdinand was seated. When

checked, the firearm was found to contain 12 rounds of ammunition.

On being cautioned and questioned, the men denied knowledge of the firearm and bullets.

Ferdinand told the Court that he found the firearm and picked it up because he was “drunk”.

“The alcohol mek we pick it up and walk with it. It is not mine,” he explained.

Ferdinand was charged jointly with Henry and Wyllie who (both) pleaded not guilty.

They were remanded on Monday, following strong objections to bail by Prosecutor Station Sergeant Elgin Richards.

Richards contended that investigations into a spate of gun-related incidents at Redemption Sharpes were ongoing, and would include checks to determine whether the spent shells collected on the scene of those crimes were linked to the gun that was intercepted.

He expressed the view that if the defendants

Akeem Ferdinand’s claim that the gun was not his, proved to be futile.

Mwata Henry pleaded not guilty and will now have to defend that plea.

were released on bail, they could obstruct those investigations.

“This is also a national security issue, and the investigations are not just centred around Sharpes,” the Prosecutor explained.

The matter was adjourned to September 4 and transferred to the Serious Offences Court, which is not currently sitting.

Henry, the driver of

the vehicle, was fined $450.00 forthwith or four for driving without a months in prison, for valid driver’s licence. driving an uninsured vehicle, and $250.00 or two months

Marlon Wyllie’s fate began by being charged for driving without licence and driving an uninsured vehicle.

This is what a 9mm Uzi looks like. It is not the firearm referred to in this article.

COP & Attorney battle over disclosure of case material THE DEFENCE in the internal matter involving two executive members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Welfare Association (PWA), has written to Commissioner of Police Renold Hadaway, requesting full disclosure of all relevant material to the case.

Chair of the PWA Sergeant Brenton Smith has been charged on two counts of Mutinous Conduct, two counts of Conduct to the Prejudice of Good Order and Discipline, and one count of Breach of Routine Force Order; while Constable Kenroy Martin is charged

with conducting himself in a Manner Unbecoming of a Police Officer, and Breach of Routine Force Order.

The charges were laid in connection with a report on comments made by some executive members of the PWA, including a threat ‘to storm the office of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’, during an internal WhatsApp communication early last month.

The matter was scheduled to be heard on Wednesday August 23, but has been adjourned to September 26.

In a letter to the Commissioner dated August 22, Attorney Kay BacchusBaptiste stated that she was contacted by the accused officers to represent them at their hearing scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, but she had not seen the official charges or had time to properly consult with her clients.

“I am hereby requesting full disclosure of all charges, witness statements, photos, recordings, transcripts, or any other document or evidence pertaining to these

charges. In the circumstances, I am requesting an adjournment of the hearing to a convenient date after you have supplied me with the Even after an exchange of correspondence disclosure requested, between attorney Kay Bacchus-Browne and giving me sufficient time Commissioner of Police Renold Hadaway, the to prepare my case,” the issue of disclosure of material in relation to the lawyer wrote. matter involving PWA members, is no way near However, in a letter closure. dated August 23, the Commissioner responded stating, “I am uncertain whether or her client, she is entitled to the not you are in possession of copies of disclosure requested. the Disciplinary charges brought “I, therefore, fail to understand your against Sergeant Brenton Smith and determination that there is nothing in Constable Kenroy Martin. If you do the case for the prosecution that will not have copies of same, I hereby undermine your case or strengthen our attach copies for your perusal. These case. This is a question of natural are internal disciplinary matters justice and the right of an accused which do not fall under the ambit of person to know what evidence is to be the Criminal Standard Procedure of adduced, in order that he may properly disclosure.” defend his case. The case of Kenute He referred the lawyer to the case, Lynch is misunderstood and Kenute Lynch vs The Queen, and misapplied by you. This is the nature added, “In any event, there is nothing of a trial and I again request full in the evidence to be presented that disclosure.” will undermine the case for the Police Up to press time Wednesday, the or strengthen the case of your client.” defence was still awaiting full But Bacchus-Baptiste wrote back to disclosure. the Commissioner on that day, stating The accused police officers are also that the investigation is governed by represented by attorney Israel Bruce. the Magistrate’s Act, and as such, in order to properly defend See Page 19 for more Court.

V St. Lucia hopeful Belize moves to about increased decriminalise banana exports marijuana

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 5.

News

AMONG EIGHT BILLS tabled in the parliament of Belize last week Friday, August 18, was one aimed at decriminalizing the possession of cannabis or marijuana in amounts not exceeding ten grams or less than half an ounce.

Introducing the Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Bill, 2017 Bill, Prime Minister Dean Barrow said, “This Bill seeks to decriminalize the possession of cannabis in amounts not exceeding ten grams, to provide for the imposition of monetary and non-recordable penalties for the possession of cannabis in such amounts occurring on school premises, in specified circumstances, to decriminalize the smoking of cannabis on private premises.”

He made it clear that the Bill “does not legalize the use of cannabis,” and promised that “for the public to get a deeper

understanding of the amendment …. there will be an education campaign on the matter.”

The Bill, as the Prime Minister went on to say, “is only the first step and a small step...” He, however, was honest to note that there will be the naysayers. “I suspect we are going to hear from the churches..,” he told the Parliament.

And as predicted, the Bill has been criticised by the National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB), which cited scientific studies and reports showing the dangers of marijuana use in younger persons. And pointed to similar experiments to decriminalise the drug in at least one United States city has failed.

NEAB member Pastor Luis Wade said the “position of NEAB is based on the advice received from the Drug Control

Pastor Luis Wade of the NEAB raised concern about the absence of social structures. (Credit: Channel 5 Belize)

Prime Minister Dean Barrow introduced the Bill and described it as a first step. (Credit:Ambergis Today)

the economic issues confronting the country.

But Prime Minister Barrow countered by reiterating “..we will have to let people know that Council a couple years basically we are creeping ago, when the Council before we expect to walk. stated they were opposed And it doesn’t go nearly as to the idea, because the far as I am sure a lot of social structures were not people would like.” in place as yet.

The Bill has been “We know that those referred to the Health and structures are not in Human Development place,” he said, adding Committee of the House. that the government (Source: CMC, Belize should be concentrating on News 5)

CARICOM SG asks Sweden’s help on blacklisting issue SECRETARY-GENERAL of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque has urged Sweden to use its position in two major international organisations to highlight the unfair labelling of some of the Community’s Member States as “non-cooperative tax jurisdictions”.

Speaking at the CARICOM Secretariat’s Turkeyen, Guyana headquarters during the accreditation ceremony of Sweden’s news Ambassador to the Community, Her Excellency Elizabeth Eklund, the SecretaryGeneral said, “As we seek to diversify our economies and build our services sector, some of our Member States, engaged in financial services, have been labelled as non-cooperative tax jurisdictions’. This is despite the fact that the countries in question are not so designated by the relevant global authorities, such as the Financial Action Task Force and the OECD Global Forum.”

“As a member of the EU and the OECD, Sweden can assist in encouraging these bodies to be guided by the informed position of the relevant global regulatory authorities and desist from their unnecessary seemingly punitive

JUST ABOUT WHEN IT SEEMS the St. Lucia Banana Industry was about to turn a corner for the better, Tropical Storm Harvey may just have put a dent in hopes for increased export of the crop.

While the damage to the actual banana cultivation is still to be accurately assessed, prior to the passage of TS Harvey, St. Lucia’s Agriculture Minister Ezechiel Joseph had said the banana industry “has seen some improvement based on figures from banana marketing company St. Lucia’s Winfresh.”

Agriculture According to Joseph, if the Minister Ezechiel current level of production is Josephmau will maintained, the island could see just have to curb the production of almost 20,000 his enthusiasm tonnes for 2017, which would be following the an over 300 percent increase passage of TS compared to 2016 figures.

Harvey. (Credit: “I must report that the figures HTS News) that are coming in are very encouraging,” he said. “If we continue with what I am seeing, we might reach almost 20,000 tonnes for the year 2017 despite the fact that [for] the first quarter of 2017 …we were recovering from Tropical Storm Matthew, so that’s significant.”

Joseph disclosed that the country is hoping to add to its exports starting in January where it will send out 3,000 boxes of bananas to France on a weekly basis.

“They have given a commitment. They are still interested in purchasing our bananas, through of course, our established mechanism, that’s through Winfresh. So we are looking at starting sometime in January, where, January to March 2018 … That is another market that we have of course and we need to increase the production,” he said.

Joseph said he is optimistic, taking into account the condition of banana fields on the island.

“It’s very encouraging,” he said, though noting that there should be greater banana production and consistency in yields.

“When I went to London, I had the opportunity to meet with some of the major supermarkets and they are saying that they want more of the Windward Islands bananas, so there is a market. It’s for farmers now to be able to produce the fruit on a sustainable basis to increase the productivity so they can generate the type of returns … from that enterprise because right now, when I look at the figures…and if the figures are correct, it is showing that we have reduced our production per acre,” he noted. (Source: CMC)

actions,” he added.

The SecretaryGeneral called attention to the decision earlier this year by the European Union Council to screen some CARICOM Member States to determine whether they were cooperative tax Her Excellency Elizabeth Eklund and jurisdictions, using CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador new criteria. “The Irwin LaRocque during the accreditation. stated criteria go (Credit: caricom.org) beyond the generally accepted international tax transparency and risking” strategies being employed accountability standards which our by certain international banks which had resulted in the countries have been meeting over withdrawal of crucial correspondent the past several years,” he pointed banking relationships. out.

“This particularly affects our It was extremely onerous for small countries to address different indigenous banks and other international initiatives which dealt financial services entities, and could lead to the disconnection of our with the same, similar or related small economies from the global subject matter yet stipulated economy and international trade. different sets of criteria, he observed. “There appears almost to It’s socio-economic impact would be disastrous, given that remittances be a predisposition to blacklisting which are the main source of income our countries,” Ambassador for many of our poorest citizens will There was no doubt that banana cultivation in St. LaRocque stated. be affected,” the Secretary-General Lucia had shown qualitative and quantitative He said a major consequence of said. (Source: caricom.org) this blacklisting was the “degrowth in 2017. (Credit: Jako Productions)

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6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Elderly lady gives thanks after storm

The debris rested against the window, blocking the view from inside the house.

YVETTE GLASGOW IS A 76-year-old spiritual Baptist. She worships at the St.

Bethel Baptist Church at Block 2000, Kingstown.

The rains caused the high earth bank to come tumbling down on the back of the house.

Glasgow, though, resides at Edinboro and has done so for the last 38 years.

She was, up to Wednesday this week, trying to restore a sense of normalcy at her residence, after the rains and water flows associated with the passage of Tropical Storm Harvey — Friday 18th August — caused a rush of water and debris into her home, destroying furniture and household equipment, and leaving a collection of Yvette Glasgow considers herself to be materials outside and inside blessed and gives thanks that worse was the house. avoided.

“It was like a river,” Glasgow recalled, especially effected some cleaning. A follow up with a return of heavy showers in the exercise was slated to have taken evening. place during the week.

Last Wednesday, Glasgow summed Glasgow suffers from diabetes. Her up her situation as “waiting and husband Joseph Glasgow, a former hoping and watching that when things Banana Growers Association worker, can move back in its rightful place.” died in 1999. Her children have since She regards herself as being dispersed, although Thaddeus and “blessed,” even though her prevailing Raphael give her close attention. situation might be unbearable.

The Edinboro district is prone to the She is thankful for two direct dislocation of stones, carved into the reasons. The first is that the damage steep terrain of the hills that form a occurred during the daylight hours skyline around the city. Glasgow is around nine that morning - and aware of this, but this is the first time secondly, burglar bars at her residence she has been directly affected. served as a barrier and prevented Raphael, a fifth form student of the even more debris from crashing into Dr. J. P. Eustace Memorial Secondary the house.

School located in Edinboro, assured “I still have to give God thanks and that the family had heeded the advice praise,” Glasgow outlined. attendant to the storm warnings, and Even though some family members, had taken some precaution. For including her son Thaddeus and example, those rooms below the hills grandson Raphael Dennie, moved were vacated. The family was safe, but swiftly to tackle the cleaning job, furnishings and household equipment Glasgow had to seek refuge for a few will have to be replaced. days, at her son’s residence in Calder Thaddeus is “glad everything Ridge. worked out.” He was thankful that Since her return to Edinboro, a there was no loss of life, and that the team from Bridges, Roads and General damage was not total.(WKA) Services Authority (BRAGSA) has

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 7.

News

Vincy visitor has terrible experience

by Haydn Huggins

A 62-YEAR-OLD Belair woman has complained to THE VINCENTIAN of a ‘terrible” experience she encountered during her recent visit to these shores.

Elsie Green, who has been living in Toronto, Canada for 29 years, said she arrived at the Argyle International Airport on July 19, for a four-week vacation in her homeland.

She was scheduled to depart SVG on August 18, but due to a Tropical Storm Warning issued for that day, all flights were cancelled indefinitely.

Fortunately, the tropical storm was not as severe as predicted, as it passed over mainland St. Vincent. The warning was discontinued and the airport was reopened at 4:00pm that day.

“When I heard it was reopened, I hustled with my 18-year-old daughter and grandchildren to get there. I got there between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m. The woman at the desk took my documents, but handed them back to me, saying she did not see any connecting flight for me from Barbados,” Green explained.

The upset woman, who preferred not to be photographed, noted that her flight from St. Vincent was originally scheduled for departure at 11:00 a.m., to arrive in Barbados for 12:15 p.m., for a connecting flight to Toronto at 3:45 p.m.

“Since then, I have been stuck here. I am diabetic, the medication I brought to last me for the month has finished,” the woman complained, adding that her husband is also seriously ill with a heart problem in

Toronto.

Green believes that if the woman who dealt with her at the airport had put them on a flight to Barbados, they could have been able to get out, as she had her daughter and three grandchildren, ages 3, 6 and 7 with her.

She was scheduled to arrive in Toronto at 9:27 p.m. that night.

Green said she subsequently called her travel agent in Toronto,

Vee Jay’s awards school lunch scholarships IN THIS, 2017, its 40th year of providing exceptional local cuisine and impeccable customer service to locals and visitors alike, Vee Jay’s Restaurant and Bar, with its main outlet on Bay Street, Kingstown, is into executing a year of activities to commemorate the milestone.

As part of that year of activities, Vee Jay’s launched a School Lunch Scholarship Programme which, commencing September 2017, will offer lunches each day for five days a week, for the expected five-year period at secondary school, to two successful CPEA students.

In addition, the Scholarship Programme will extend one Friday lunch under the same Five-dayconditions, to a child of a lunch long-standing customer. scholarship Towards this end, Vee awardees Jay’s announced earlier this T’Kaya week that Kayanna John - of Williams (left) the Barrouallie Anglican School and T’Kiya Williams and Kayanna of the Biabou Methodist John (right) School were awarded the five- with Mrs. day-a-week lunch Julia scholarships, and Shamur Richardson, Williams of the Troumaca Proprietor of Government School, the one Vee Jay’s Friday-a-week lunch award.

Restaurant Kayanna and T’Kiya will and Bar. Shamur Williams – one-Friday attend the St. Joseph’s lunch scholarship awardee, Convent Kingstown, and pictured with his mother.

Shamur is heading for the Thomas Saunders Secondary school. principals, based on their performance The two five-day-launch awardees were recommended by their respective at this year’s CEPA.

and was told she would not be able to get out until September 3.

Green, who said she has been a Nursing Assistant at a hospital in Toronto for the past 15 years, is worried that her job might be at stake.

“I can’t go because I am stuck here, I can’t get out until September 3. I only came for four weeks.

I am upset, I am mad that I am still here.”

The woman, who said she returns to her homeland every three or four years, declared, “I born here, but I would not feel to come back, having gone through this terrible experience.”

Lawyer considering political move

by Haydn Huggins Up to press time Wednesday, Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste was considering a request made to her by “certain individuals,” to contest the West St George seat for the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, the veteran lawyer confirmed that certain individuals had approached her in relation to contesting the seat for the NDP, but she was still considering it. She added that, “things should be finalized officially in another week or so.”

Bacchus-Baptiste declined to disclose the names of the individuals, or to comment further on the issue. However, when asked whether she has any thoughts on representing people at the political level, she replied, “All things are possible, you only have to believe.

“I have been representing people all my life, especially the underdogs. I understand what it is to render service to the people.

“I have always been a social and political activist, always fighting, trying to seek equality and justice for all the citizens. It is what I like doing.”

Bacchus-Baptiste, a former Acting Registrar here, was Vice President and President of the local Bar Association for several years, and is a founding member of the local Human Rights Association.

She has represented the NDP in several legal political matters which she said was done pro bono.

She is currently one of their leading lawyers in the elections petition matter.

She has also made her mark in the sports and cultural arena, including being a former President of the local Karate Association, and representing this country at CARIFESTA on a number of occasions as a singer/performer with the Kingstown Chorale and as a dancer.

General elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are constitutionally due no later than March 2021.

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8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

To be ‘certified’ or not…

SO, DR. RALPH GONSALVES, political leader of the governing Unity Labour Party, has called on Colin Graham, even as he (Graham) awaits ratification of his candidacy for the opposition New Democratic Party in the East St. George constituency, to ‘show’ his O’Level and A’Level qualifications.

Let’s just set that challenge aside as simple political banter. Let’s instead, take the implication therein into another dimension, and consider the issue of the ‘education’ requirement, if any, for those seeking public office.

Ok, politicians should be educated… secondary school education being the basic, and further qualification a bonus. And that is even setting the bar higher than what our Constitution requires — a proof of literacy.

Stick a pin. Amidst all the certification that a politician might possess, or have bestowed upon him/her, weren’t there other qualities that a person seeking public office should possess? What about qualities such as honesty, trustworthiness and sincerity? Don’t they matter, or has our politics been ‘elevated’ to such realms that these human traits are now subservient to some certification from a school of higher academic learning?

No amount of certification can guarantee the main traits a politician and political leader should have — honesty, dedication, ability to face challenging situations, knowledge about his/her constituency/the society, commitment towards the welfare of the constituency/society; and accessibility.

Education cannot guarantee all these things; however, this is not to say that ideally a person given the task of administrating on behalf of a country, should not have some reasonable educational background. Education helps in developing a learning attitude in life, which helps a person (in this case a politician) to adapt to this fastchanging world, and serve the society in a more appropriate way.

However, a true representative need not be educated, but be sensitive, honest, full of zeal and enthusiasm, and ready to serve in true spirit.

It’s the performance in office that tells the tale, not the qualifications.

“The presence or absence of a college degree makes a statement, but it is a limited statement, and that statement has to be in context with an individual’s life and life story,” to borrow an instructive note from an unlikely source - Chris Robling, a USA Republican strategist.

One who is desirous of seeking public office must demonstrate that he/she is ready to make sacrifice and prepared to work to achieve that which might be considered impossible.

He/she must be committed to strive for the people’s welfare and lead the people from the front. Does this mean that that person so desirous, has to be certified by some higher school of academic learning?

The so called ‘uneducated’ can lead, can lead the country for that matter, if that person is gifted with good intention and blessed with a curiosity to learn — instead of having a position of leadership thrust upon him/her.

In this era, everybody has information, and people are there to make suggestions. In this milieu, those who desire public office are required to possess strong judgmental skills, courage to take decisions, willingness to take risks, and a strong desire to change the society. Can higher learning guarantee these attributes in a way living among the people can?

Community, even national leaders are formed from the bottom up — they morph from being leaders of small groups or (even) of people formally in an organisation or in a movement, or informal groups of friends, neighbours, etc. They have a conduct which sets an example for others and influences their followers. Is this learned in schools of higher learning?

Educated politicians are not always correlated to being better leaders.

There are some who have been better leaders in one setup, but not in another. A certified, overly qualified person may well be a good Permanent Secretary, but might never win an election.

Then there are others who have not been graduates, yet proved to be better leaders.

While it is true that educated politicians are required to understand the importance of educated voters and being sensitive to its development, it is equally true that non-educated political leaders, especially women, have proved to be more sensitive to socio-economic outcomes in their constituencies.

Though it is always desirable as a goal to have educated politicians, it doesn’t always translate into them being better representatives/leaders.

Our elected officials should reflect their constituencies and, therefore, one would predict that, in a democracy, we would have representatives who have not earned a degree, but who have developed their skills sets through experiences outside of formal education.

World Cup Cricket: The Real Test (first published in 2007) MY OWN VIEW concerning the current debacle of West Indies cricket is very simple, almost simplistic. And yet, paradoxically, it is also very serious indeed.

These West Indies share a common heritage and history for the most part.

We are also a natural cultural area, despite the archipelagic existence of a geographical setting with separation by sea.

For a time, the West Indies went gaily along, a struggling colonial side that was boosted by a West Indies Federation 1958-61.

After the Federation folded in 1961, for some 25 years the team travel on its own momentum in the hope that the politics will catch up with it. In the last decade of twentieth century, it was obvious that the islands had gone their separate ways, and the team lost its raison d’etre.

In very real sense, Worrell had been the human agency that forged a catalyst out of the West Indies team, sufficient to bring these scattered territories together with a common idiom in the sport of cricket.

Put another way, the cart went before the horse, with the West Indies team offering a jump-start to the integration movement, rather than that an evolving West Indies nation sponsor a team which should have been the normal order of things.

But having run ahead and put West Indies on top of the heap, the team suddenly began to crumble. The reason for this is that the team had performed the Herculean task of binding these disparate islands together for a generation without solid political backup.

Part of the instated plan was that the countries would use the time to get their political act together, and sustain their champion team. Seen from a different perspective, the scenario offered a classic case of pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps.

But the straps had worn bare to the point of snapping precisely because the boots won’t budge. The roof would cave in for lack of a foundation!

For the last forty years of the last century we have witnessed a loosening of bonds of togetherness as territory after territory sought and attained separate Independence and silently proclaimed that every unit was an island unto itself.

The fatality casualty list makes for dismal reading: West Indies Federation; Little Eight; Lucky Seven; Trinidad-

Grenada, Union; Windwards Islands unification. Everybody knew that the Association of Caribbean States was not worth the paper on which its constitution is written.

Instead, the negative forces have been given great latitude to grow into a monster. The problem had always been with us. The examples are legion. The self-centered Administrations have virtually threatened to call the bluff on the centripetal work of our cricket team as well as our university.

At her Independence celebrations, Barbados felt itself strong enough to take on a “World Team” that included the West Indies! Worrell was furious and Gibbs bowled them out in a spirit of revenge.

The Trinidadians have allowed themselves to be afflicted by Laramania, and spoilt him rotten in the process.

The Bajans have been worse. In the maiden one -off Test against South Africa, they boycotted the game because Haynes was their only representative.

And their dean of sports-writers, Erskine King, was savage with selectee our own Cameron Cuffy, not with the selectors who favoured the Vincentian over Bajan Otis Gibson.

For their part, the Antiguans raised Cain when Viv Richards was turned down as coach for the team. And so forth.

The notion of a quota system, the Big island syndrome, and the canonization of local cricket heroes are back in the ascendant, all because there is no shared political home-base to return to, and the Board itself reflects all weaknesses of the political milieu.

In the event, we became bogged down in minutiae, even trivia, and miss the big picture, the over-arching political matrix that fashions us in its own image.

In sum, technical solutions represent perhaps a necessary patchwork on symptoms. But more lasting healing call for a mental cure associated with a political environment that allows our boys a meaningful measure of dignity and identity. The banner of the West Indies Board is now seen as a mere flag of convenience.

The bottom line is that an approach that tackles the larger economic and Continued on Page 19.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 9.

Letters

ULP: A puppet government Where is the NCF? The ULP regime is a puppet government, governing a puppet state.

SVG is a country that is officially independent but not in practice. Yes, SVG preserves the paraphernalia of independence, like name, flag, anthem, constitution, laws, coat of arms, but in reality, the state of SVG is an organ of another state and multinational companies.

The state of SVG appears nominally sovereign. On close investigation, one may find the state and government of SVG are effectively controlled by a foreign or otherwise alien power, for reasons such as financial interests.

A puppet government has very little will of its own, as it needs financial backing or support from

One for Colin WELL, WELL, WELL. Colin Graham, that young, energetic boy that I knew, has grown up, and strong enough to challenge the mighty Camillo Gonsalves.

I knew both his parents very well, and remember his older brother, who I think became a police officer after being an outstanding School Cadet.

The little I can gather is that Colin has made a name for himself as a radio personality, and it appears he is not afraid to show his political colours. How the move into active politics will affect his radio popularity, and how that decision affects his relationship with his bosses, will be seen eventually.

In the meantime, I wish Colin all the best.

He could well be the beginning of a new breed of politicians home, who can bring an end to the division that is so severe these days.

East St. George is a large area with a large number of voters. It is also historically speaking a Labour Party constituency.

I don’t expect Colin will have it easy, but I feel confident he will give his all and, if victorious, will be a true representative of the people.

Garnet - NY

the puppet masters, which effectively forces the puppet government and state to act as subordinate to another power in exchange, for its own survival.

I believe Taiwan and Mustique and company are the two major puppet masters among a lengthy string of puppet masters in SVG. ‘How can a government be a puppet to an investor or an alien power’? one may ask.

History has shown puppet masters quite often sponsor (finance) their puppets into

political power, and take steps to ensure the puppets remain subordinates to them.

The puppet masters will earn large sums of money, while the nationals of the puppet states will be dependent on charity (handouts).

It’s fair to state a prime minister with a puppet government equates to a bowl of sausages.

Kadmiel McFee British War Veteran politicianmrmcfeekd@g mail.com

Addressing the LGBT issue AS I UNDERSTAND IT, acts of buggery are still listed as criminal offences in SVG. I understand that to mean that homosexuality is also a criminal offence.

Judging from the leadership of this country, it would be a very, very long time before this country accepts homosexuality as an alternate lifestyle.

Following on the pronouncement of our leader, this country is counted among the most homophobic in the Caribbean.

While we are bad when it comes to accepting alternate lifestyles, I think Jamaica has carried it to another level. Even the songs that come out of that country condemn those who indulge in same sex relationships, with the singers not

afraid to even say, ‘kill all dem battyman’, for the world to hear.

That is why I was all but taken aback when I read that a ‘big’ conference was held recently in Jamaica, during which participants and speakers engaged in discussion towards charting plans for advocacy on Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT) issues in that country.

In the face of all the open condemnation, those people — Jamaicans resident at home and a large number from the Diaspora - met and deliberated without interfering with anybody and anybody interfering with them.

In fact, I understand after further investigation, that this was not the first time a

gathering of this sort had taken place in Jamaica.

If Jamaica can accommodate such a discussion, and Jamaica is considered perhaps the worst as far as tolerance of same sex relationship is concerned, then maybe the rest of the Caribbean can follow suit and begin to discuss this matter with some degree of maturity.

I am no homosexual, but I would hate to think that we would continue with an attitude that makes many young people afraid to admit who they are, because they would be ostracised by their families, friends and co-workers for being gay, lesbian, bisexual.

In this day and age, we need to be better human beings.

I WAS PLEASED to read last week’s Vincentian, especially your coverage of our team to CARIFESTA X111, and, I dare say, you biting editorial.

What I would like to ask, through this public medium, is what role the National Cultural Foundation played in putting together or informing the make-up of our CARIFESTA team?

In fact, I would like to know exactly what role the NCF plays in culture and cultural development in this country.

Time we stop finding people to do things and find things for people to do.

This NCF is, from what I understand, a Statutory Board, and the persons who sit on it get a stipend. What I hardly hear is what they are doing to guide the cultural policy of this government, if at all this government has a genuine cultural policy.

I agree with you, Mr. Editor, that our team to CARIFESTA could have been more representative of us.

Charles Edinboro

WI needs mental strength

SO, WEST INDIES CRICKET suffered yet another telling blow … going under to arch rivals England in three days. We still have two test matches to play, and I can only hope that this trend does not continue.

If it does, then we should inform the ICC that we are withdrawing from test cricket for at least three years in the first instance.

During that time, I suggest that we keep the group of young players that we have, adding Darren Bravo of course and people like Sunil Ambris, and involved them in a high intensive, vigorous mental strength building process.

No one is going to tell me that the chaps we have now don’t have talent. However, they are repeatedly showing me that they lack the mental strength to take on the demands of today’s test cricket. It is one thing to ‘answer back a man on the field’, it is another thing to take that courage Jerome F and translate it into centuries and five-wicket South Leeward hauls.

And while I am fraction of people present felt that at it, all those ‘Singing Kristy’ had won. persons calling for And while I am at it, is it a fact the return of people ALLOW ME SPACE in your paper Experience. that one of the judges made a like Gayle, Samuel to share my disgust with what is Kristiana ‘Singing Kristy’ remark saying that ‘Boney Man’ and Bravo taking place in St. Vincent.

Christopher is a member of the sang ‘politics’, and he ‘can’t (Dwayne) need to One might say that ‘carnival Upstage Experience. She was a represent SVG’? Is it a fact that gone already’, but the thing is that competitor in both the Calypso that judge proceeded to ‘mark down’ stop talking *$#*, and admit that the burning issues are still here, (Secondary) and Soca competitions. the young man? and no one seems to be interested On principle alone, Mr. Williams these fellows are If the above is true, I am calling in addressing them. That is sad! and Miss McKenzie should have way past the test on the CDC to see to it that that I know that by writing this withdrawn from the panel of judge (person) is removed from all cricket of today. article, I will get even more judges. judging panels, and never allowed Stay with the enemies, but I don’t give one shoots; Then again, why worry? Ann to judge a calypso competition in current group, but right is right and wrong is wrong.

Miller, a past president of the this land again. strengthen them Take this year’s Junior and Calypso Association and a current In the meantime, I appeal to mentally.

Calypso and Soca Competitions for member of the Upstage Experience, ‘Boney Man’s’ handlers not to roll And while we example. What happened in the is on record as saying that ‘Upstage over and play dead as far as this doing that, we Junior Calypso and Junior Soca run things’. Does that include the matter is concerned. You have to could also teach Monarch Competitions should Calypso Association? consider taking the matter to the them how to dance never have happened. How could As far as awarding the title of court if necessary. It is time this to real calypso you have members of the UpStage Secondary School Monarch to nonsense is brought to an end!

Experience (Calypso Tent) judging music, not to this ‘Singing Kristy’, I am calling on And, Mr. President of the calypsonians from that tent? I am those with higher authority to crazy soca that Calypsonians Association, what are talking about no other than teaches you how to reverse that decision, and do the you doing to have this matter Shernelle ‘Skarpyon’ Williams, who right thing by awarding the title to addressed? This is your call as well. jump up and down judged the calypso competitions, the true winner, Damian ‘Boney Don’t ever forget that you represent only. and Shaunelle Mckenzie, who Man’ Noel. ‘Boney Man’ sang, all calypsonians, not just a few. judged the Soca. They are both performed and outclassed all other Simon members of the UpStage competitors on the day. Only a Winston ‘Chief’ Davis A cricket fan

Correct a calypso wrong now!

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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The Opposition NDP; “short changing” the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines

Introduction IT IS GENERALLY ACCEPTED by most Vincentians that the Opposition New Democratic Party is “short changing” the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines in terms of their performance. Political experts will tell us that in the current Westminster system that we employ, that the role of the opposition is critical for the proper functioning of democracy, and the protection of the interests of the public.

In a sense, they are required to act as a watch dog of the government, and in some cases can be regarded as the government in waiting.

If we subscribe to these principles, we then must expect the opposition to conduct their affairs in a principled manner. We expect the opposition to support programmes established by the government, aimed at benefiting the citizens of the country. We expect them to provide ideas and solutions to problems facing the country and its citizens. These solutions should be based on sound research, logic and reasoning, and should be relevant and practical.

Sadly, this is not the case of the opposition New Democratic Party led

by Dr. Lorraine Friday. Their modus operandi seems to be one of pulling down everything that is good for the country, without providing any solutions or alternate suggestions. In this way, they are showing Vincentians that they have no clue how to govern the country. Here are some of the things that the NDP wants to see the back of, based on their “pulling down” strategy.

There are a number of other issues that the NDP oppose, but which are beneficial for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Take the issue of the one percent increase in VAT, where the proceeds are going to the disaster emergency fund.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has been at pains to explain how this measure will work, and what is the thinking behind this strategy.

The NDP has embarked on a torrent of lies about this increase, claiming that this will affect the cost of living in the country, and this will lead to more suffering for poor people. Naturally, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines have shrugged off this unpatriotic campaign by the NDP, and are getting on with their lives.

Their latest target is the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, based on a letter written to an official at that institution by the late Oscar Allen.

The letter arises from a situation where an unexpected shortage of anesthesiologists occurred, due to the fact that two of the three members of staff were on sick leave. Suddenly, the NDP goes crazy, attacking the hospital, attacking the hard-working and well qualified officials at the MCMH, and giving the impression that the ULP administration is not concerned about the health facilities in the country.

The NDP is not interested in the facts, but the facts show that the ULP administration has budgeted The AIA some EC$69.9 million dollars as expenditure for the health sector in The Argyle International Airport 2017, along with a capital allocation has been a thorn in the side of the of EC$16.1 million, a grand total of NDP, ever since that day in August 2005, when Prime Minister Dr. Ralph EC$85 million. In the process, a number of health facilities have been Gonsalves announced plans to improved and facilities at the MCMH construct the facility. Now that the project has been completed and is six have been rehabilitated. Where was the NDP and Daniel Cummings months into its operational phase, when the media was trumpeting the one would think that the NDP will successes of the World Pediatric back off, or maybe come up with suggestions to make the AIA function Project?

Then there is the recent reduction smoother. in fuel prices in the State. The NDP Not the NDP. They continue to pull down the airport, along with the has kept strangely silent on this, but one will remember the hue and cry officials who are working hard to raised by the Leader of the ensure that the facility functions in an optimal way. Somewhere in their Opposition Lorraine Friday, when the prices were increased about two minds is the farfetched notion that months ago. Despite the explanation there was some hanky-panky at the

by Prime Minister Gonsalves, in project, hence their call for accountability. That has since fizzled relation to the three months rolling average, the NDP has ignored this, out, and they moved on the issue of preferring to sow seeds of discord and people’s luggage at the AIA. Again confusion in the country. the NDP was in the forefront of the This current state of affairs will furor about this issue, then this too continue in the near future, as the fizzled out. These people are not NDP will remain in opposition serious, and are not about doing beyond the 2020 election. Our anything positive for the country. citizens, especially our young people, It is a consensus among Vincentians that the AIA is a critical are becoming more intelligent, thanks to the Education Revolution. component for the socio-economic They are ready to get involved in the development. Is the NDP so dunce national debate, on the sociothat they can’t recognize this fact? economic development of their How do they want to prove to country. The NDP will never be Vincentians, that they are ready for ready for this phase in our governance in this country? development, when they continue to “short change” Vincentians.

Other issues

The NDP will create jobs THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) congratulates all the students who are successful in this year’s CAPE and CSEC exams. Some of these students will be pursuing studies at colleges and universities, but most of them will be seeking employment. The sad news for these youngsters is that there will be no employment opportunities for them. They will be joining the thousands of Vincentians who are already on the unemployment list, because the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime has failed miserably in providing sustainable jobs for Vincentians. The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines can be assured that the NDP has job creation as priority and will implement a number of programmes and policies, so that Vincentians will be gainfully employed.

It is well-established that in today’s world, a thriving private sector is the foundation of a growing economy. The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, however, appears not to understand this basic fact. The ULP regime has failed to create the environment for the private sector to develop, so that it can create employment. Moreover, the private sector is negatively affected by the illadvised policies of the government, and is also owed millions of dollars by the ULP regime. Additionally, with the poor performance of this country’s economy, it is extremely difficult for the private sector to develop. As a result, many businesses have been closed, others have been forced to layoff a significant number of their employees, and some have reduced their work week, thereby forcing hundreds of Vincentians on the breadline.

The NDP will establish a Ministry of the Private Sector to facilitate the development and expansion of private industry in general which, ultimately, will create jobs and assist in the overall economic growth and development. We consider that small and medium sized enterprises are integral to economic growth, and we will create the conditions that will enable small and medium sized enterprises to play a major role in entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation.

The role of the Ministry of the Private Sector is critical in the development of small and medium sized enterprises. The Ministry of the Private Sector will identify and seek to develop or expand a range of direct and indirect support services for small and medium sized enterprises, including: business pre-start: start-up and development assistance; business plan development and follow-up; business incubators — legal, accounting and financial services; information services including advice on government policies, advice on the effective application of information, communication and business technologies to the business process; consultancy and research services; managerial and vocational skills enhancement; promotion and development of enterprise based training; In order to create the environment in which small and medium sized enterprises will thrive, the New Democratic Party will: end the competition between government enterprises and small and medium sized enterprises; adopt and pursue appropriate fiscal and employment policies to promote an optimal economic environment; improve the attractiveness of entrepreneurship and remove the constraints to the

development and growth of small and medium sized enterprises through the re-establishment of a Development Bank, to provide funding and financial support for small and medium sized enterprises.

Among the other programmes that will be implemented by the NDP to create jobs will be our development projects, which include: the construction of a 1000-unit integrated residential and hotel complex on mainland St. Vincent; the establishment of a regional head office here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for a major international construction group; a state of the art aircraft registry and a significant seaport improvement initiative.

In addition, we will make operational a Basic Needs Programme and Constituency Development Fund which will create employment for hundreds of Vincentians.

Our youths can also anticipate major job employment opportunities from the implementation of our impressive Information Technology programme which will attract Information Technology business to the state, bringing with them employment opportunities for thousands of young people. As a matter of fact, and as stated in our 2015 manifesto, at least five hundred (500) jobs will be created in the Information Technology sector alone, during our first year in office.

And, in addition, the NDP will pay special attention to agriculture and the revitalization of the banana industry, and seek market for other agricultural produce. We will also work vigorously to develop the tourism sector and transform St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a leading destination in the Caribbean. With a thriving agricultural sector and a booming tourism industry, thousands of Vincentians will be employed, thus generating increased economic activity in the country. Also, the NDP will encourage Foreign Direct Investment in both the public and private sectors, which will ultimately create hundreds of jobs for Vincentians.

All these initiatives by the NDP will create employment for Vincentians and we will experience a tremendous turnaround to the country’s economy and put our country back on the path of economic growth. It is crystal clear that after sixteen years, the ULP does not have the policies or programmes to develop the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Their tenure in power has been characterised by deficit budgets, negative growth, high unemployment, victimization and corruption which have resulted in severe hardship for Vincentians. The ULP regime has failed Vincentians.

The NDP has demonstrated, when it was in office, that it managed the affairs of the country effectively.

Our policies and programmes will result in job creation and economic growth. The youth of this country can be assured that the NDP offers hope and opportunities for them. We have a team, headed by our esteemed leader Dr. the Honourable Godwin Friday, with the knowledge, competence and experience to implement the policies and programmes.

Moving forward together, one nation, one people, one Vincy.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 11.

Views

The spirit of entitlement

“I’m here today to warn you: I want you to watch out for the adversary. Guard yourself from any spirit of entitlement.

Restrain any and all subtle temptation to gain attention or to find ways to promote yourself.” - Charles Rozell “Chuck” Swindoll - evangelical appear to be flouted.

Christian pastor, author, educator, and It is probably fair to assume that radio preacher. individuals who went out of their way (through honest as well as foul means) MANY CARIBBEAN NATIONS appear to be to get a political party in power, will plagued by a spirit of entitlement; a expect to be compensated once “their strange spirit that seems to taint those government” is in place. Some see this who wish to secure wealth and power by as “payback time”. They demand that any means possible. This may be based the efforts exerted must be rewarded. on their skin pigmentation, ethnicity, They ignite and energize the spirit of religious belief, profession, political entitlement. affiliation, nationality, or academic Meritocracy is what we need to be achievement. As far as they are encouraging throughout the region. concerned, they are entitled to “the fat of Our people need to feel that they can the land”. It appears to be a strange, be rewarded for their hard work and evil, and dangerous form of tribalism that commitment regardless of their is infecting and affecting the region. political allegiance, religious beliefs, This spirit of entitlement seems to have ethnicity, family name, and so on. the ability to self-perpetuate as it This is what transpires in a “clean spreads its tentacles throughout society - democratic system”. The Spirit of even infecting some communities where Entitlement goes contrary to this. We some civic leaders appear mute and raise our voices in condemning such a powerless to retard the destructive spirit. As a society, we cry out for conflagration. There are so many accountability and transparency at all instances where it appears as though levels of society. It must be practised leaders in business and society, possibly in our schools, government contaminated and compromised, remain departments, non-government silent as the unfairness and moral decay organisations, social clubs, and continue along the dangerous and churches. We must break the back of destructive path. this Spirit of Entitlement wherever it Many of our regional politicians surfaces. Our children, our people, have used various forms of prejudices must be secure in their thoughts that to enhance their popularity. Words if they work hard and exert the create and sustain political divisions necessary effort and energy, they will that will keep families and be rewarded. communities divided for decades.

Some of our Caribbean citizens Those who support the political dogma incorrectly conclude that the political appear to be rewarded with having tribalism that now appears to be their roads speedily repaired, access to rampant in so many Caribbean building materials, jobs for their nations, will make it impossible for us family members, appointments to to rid ourselves of this spirit of boards, promotions, tax exemptions, entitlement. This writer begs to differ. subsidies, and so on. The recipients Although considered an uphill task, we feel entitled to such rewards for their must forever seek to influence faithfulness … and the snowballing politicians and political parties to be intensifies (in an area of the world more focused on people and less on that sees no snow). When will it stop? political expediency. The previous Who will bell the cat? Someone has to, sentence is pregnant with if we are to save our Caribbean society opportunities for debate. However, from its downward spiral to spiritual suffice it to say that politicians and decadence. That is the direction that Members of Parliament who the Spirit of Entitlement is taking us. demonstrate a genuine and self-less If allowed to continue unhindered, it love for the people they represent, can will unravel the moral fabric of our begin to turn the tide now. It will not society. be an easy task, but it can be done — The situation is further complicated one community at a time, one country when reports emerge that those in at a time. power achieved victory by dishonest Prudence demands that we chart a means. Voter fraud and “cheating at new course for our respective the polls” have been common outcries Caribbean countries. We can build a among many Caribbean nationals better nation and region if/when we immediately following some recent focus on fairness and equity. We can general elections. Those who form encourage and inspire this generation government often remain silent, to excel at all that is noble if/when we contemplating that the utterances will convince them that they can aspire to dissipate in a relatively short space of any privileged position based on their time (as the nine-day-wonder runs its performance and attitude and not due course). Some comment that the to any form of entitlement and the opposition will seek to make dependence on “special favours”. We mountains out of a mole-hills because can be enablers of positive change in they are refusing to accept the will of our countries and regions when we the people. But the questions will refuse to perpetuate the spirit of always emerge to haunt the Caribbean entitlement and, conversely, champion societies involved, when those who the cause to see it disbanded and govern refuse to allow for examination destroyed in our generation. It may of the results. Something smells foul not be politically expedient … but it is when efforts are made to cover up the absolutely necessary if we are to build activities that may have been deemed and retain societies that display questionable leading up to the fairness and meritocracy. elections and/or on Election Day. Democracy is weakened when such Send comments, criticisms & behaviours exist. Societies deteriorate suggestions to when honesty and transparency julesferdinand@gmail.com

Emancipation and Reparations AUGUST IS EMANCIPATION month, and August 1, 2017 marks the 179th Anniversary of the abolition of chattel slavery. Before addressing the issues of Emancipation and reparations, I want to pay tribute, offer homage and respect to the Chief Servant: Makandal Daaga who died August 8, 2016.

Brothers and sisters, our African ancestors say we must remember not to forget. So as the anniversary of Bro. Gaaga’s passing approaches, there is no better tribute we could pay to his memory than to redouble our efforts and commitment to serve our people. No one can deny that brother Daaga was an exemplary servant of the people. We can commit to live like him and be like him.

Ho Chi Minh - great Vietnamese Leader said: ‘Death is not real, once one has done his life’s work well.’ This is true of the Chief Servant so we do not have to worry about his legacy. What we must not do, however, is to allow him to die a second death.

The Argentinian Poet Jorge Borges said: ‘You die twice, first when your heart gives out, and a second more final death when there is no one left to tell you truth.’

Our responsibility is to keep Bro. Daaga’s memory alive. We must emulate his exemplary commitment to struggle, discipline and self-sacrifice on behalf of the people..

It is not what is said, it is who says it. It is my respectful submission that the most important voice to have spoken this Emancipation Day across the region is that of your President Anthony Carmona. President Carmona said: ‘Trinidad and Tobago must support CARICOM call for reparations. There still exist today residual mental and other vestiges of slavery …

We in Trinidad and Tobago must raise the call for reparations in the context of the duty you owe to our fore-parents who made the ultimate sacrifice and whose contributions to our present wellbeing must be recognised in a world which now accepts that compensation and reparations are prerequisites in the dispensation of justice. As such, the case for Caribbean reparations is not too late but it is timely.’

President Carmona’s public and forceful support for Caribbean reparations is timely and important.

Sometimes it is not what is said, it is who says it. Historically, the issue of reparations has been almost exclusively the domain of academics, nationalists and left radicals. As early as 1934, Sir Authur Lewis, our Caribbean first Nobel Prize winner, as if attempting to give a hand to Marcus Garvey’s nationalism and mobilization efforts. remarked that: ‘The issue of compensations for slavery has not been adequately addressed’.

In 1944, Dr Eric Williams published his classic, Capitalism and Slavery, and definitively established the contributions of Caribbean slavery to the development of Britain, Europe and America. In the 1960s, Rastafarians demanded Repatriation and Reparations. Calypsoians Chalkdust and Sulle from St Vincent requested our grandparents’ back pay and reparations.

Left radicals called for emancipation with reparations.

However, the issue of reparations remained on the fringes of public discourse. And then came July, 2013!

CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in Trinidad and Tobago resolved to engage the former European enslavers in a developmental dialogue for reparations. This decision brought the fight for reparations from the margins of public discourse to the mainstream. The battle is not won, far from it, but there has been more

coverage on Caribbean Reparation than at any time since the abolition of slavery in 1834. In the first two years after the call for reparations by Caribbean leaders, more than 5,000 pieces have been written or reported all over the world.

So what is Reparation?

Reparations is the process of repairing the consequences of crimes committed and the attempt to reasonably remove the debilitating effects of such crimes upon victims and their descendants.

Reparation seeks reconciliation between victims and beneficiaries, to restore equity in social relations, equality before the law, justice within the fabric of human diversity that typifies humanity, to heal, atone and bring closure to the human tragedy of mass slavery, to restore a higher moral order by removing the shame and guilt that persistently poison the relations between descendants on all sides of the crime.

Magnitude of the Genocidal crime British slave ships brought an estimated 5.5 million enslaved Africans into the Caribbean colonies over 180 years, and when slavery was abolished in 1838, there were just 800,000 Africans remaining. A retention, survival rate of 15 per cent: this is the face of genocide. The regime of enslavement was crafted by policies and attitudes that were clearly genocidal.

Jamaica received 1.5 million enslaved Africans during the slave trade, and at Emancipation, only 300,000 or 20 per cent survived. A kill rate of 80 percent. Barbados received 600,000 enslaved Africans, only 83,000 or 14 percent remained at emancipation.

That’s a kill rate of 84 percent. I do not have accurate number for Trinidad and Tobago, but some reports state that there were about 20,000 enslaved Africans in Trinidad and Tobago in 1802. This number is doubtful to say the least. St Vincent and the Grenadines received 71,000 enslaved Africans between 1797, the year of British colonial conquest and 1806 when the slave trade was abolished. At emancipation, only 22,000 or 33 percent survived. A genocidal kill rate of 67 percent.

SVG experienced the shortest period of chattel slavery in the entire Caribbean. Vincentians have always been a rebellious people. Our ancestors fought two important wars in defense of our sovereignty and independence: 1770 to 1773, and again from 1795-1797.

After conquest, more than 5,000 men, women and children were banished and exiled to the island of Roatan, just off Belize. They have survived with the original language and many of our historical cultural patterns. After emancipation in 1838, we rose up in rebellion in the 1860s and again in 1935 against oppression, exploitation and colonial rule. So you see, we may be small, but as our Jamaican cousins say, we tallawa! However, the Vincentian story of resistance is for another day.

Back to the story of emancipation and reparations.

Next week, we pick up the Emancipation and Reparations story by answering the question: Who got paid.

This column is an excerpt from a speech delivered at the University of the West Indies on August 5th, 2017 at the Emancipation Dinner organized by the National Joint Cultural Committee in Trinidad.

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

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12. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Governor General should prorogue parliament & call general elections FOR THE FIRST TIME in living memory, we have sadly reached the point where we have a government that is virtually bankrupt of money, and bankrupt of the ideas needed to move the country forward and make our economy and nation strong.

Chief Joseph Chatoyer sacrificed his life in order to give future generations of Vincentians a good life.

He must be turning in his grave, given the poor state of our country.

Throughout the nation, we have high levels of poverty and unemployment, thousands of households without mains water and electricity, and thousands of households living in destitution and struggling to feed themselves.

The economic disaster has spiralled out of control. The ULP regime has shown that it does not have the capacity to rectify the economic disaster which has engulfed SVG. We urgently need CARICOM and United

Nations intervention for the sake of our people.

The ULP regime is bankrupt of money and bankrupt of ideas to give all our people a good life. This is very sad, especially because of the negative effects of the dead economy on our people.

The ULP regime has shown that they do not have the ability to govern the country properly, so as to create a strong economy and thousands of new jobs. The ULP regime cannot provide good quality healthcare and cannot move the SVG economy forward. Our country is swamped with youth gun crime, dangerous living areas and illiteracy.

It is quite apparent: the blind is leading the blind in SVG. A Vincentian business man based in New York, told the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, that the ULP regime’s selfproclaimed ‘education revolution’ is a

flop.

Two young Vincentian men recently went to England to join the British Army, but both failed the Army’s written entrance examination, failing in Maths and English.

For over 60 years, Vincentians have travelled to England to join the British Armed Forces and have passed the entrance examination. However, under the ULP regime, the number of Vincentians failing the exam is higher. It is a clear sign that the ULP regime’s education revolution is a failure, when young men cannot pass the British Army’s written examination.

In countries with a strong economy, 50 to 80 per cent of children who enter the education system go on to university. In SVG, only about 1 per cent of children who enter the education system go on to university.

This is another illustration of the ULP

What is development?

- That the Sustainable Development Goals BUSINESS (SDGs) are a reflection of CONSULTANT Jan the situation in the world Eliasson, on his views on today; what is development, - Development means tells us the following: so much, both for the Part One

world and for the individual human being.

Development is a life in peace; - Development is a life without poverty and without inequalities; - Development is respect of human rights, and the belief in governance and in good and strong institutions; - A life where your governance, your structures, your institution, are reliable and non-corrupt; - All nations have the responsibility related to the goal of partnerships; - Issues like transportation, energy, industry and agriculture which were seen as domestic, are now international.

Eliasson goes on: - That we need to combine the international perspective with the regional, national, even local perspective — shared responsibilities — shared solidarity.

- That we need a horizon and a vision of the future.

He goes on: - That goals now contain issues like transfer technology, urbanization with 60% of

people living in cities, migration and industrialization; - With an existential issue with sustainable being its basis — universality of goals; - That knowledge of citizens is not a top down process.

Business consultant Susan Mc Adam in her views on what is Financing Development, says: - It’s needed for the public sector. It’s needed for private investment.

- How you manage money is what’s important.

- Finance as a noun refers to a stock of money — as a verb it’s about providing money — money flowing to projects.

She says: - That grants, concessional loans with very low interest rates based on market rates; on borrowers credit rating and that there are guarantees, all available.

- On the private sector side, there is equity investment — money provided to start a new company — the investor owns part of the company.

- There are loans from

regime’s education revolution being a flop.

All the ULP regime seems to want to do is ruin the economy, make our people destitute, poor and desperate, and then control them with handouts.

SVG is hanging on by a thread under the grossly incompetent ULP regime. It seems as if at any moment, our country could plummet into an abyss of a ‘Venezuela-type’ level of economic and social disorder. SVG needs competent leadership.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal is calling on His Excellency the Governor General of SVG to prorogue (dissolve) Parliament, so general elections can be called. One has to question the legitimacy of the ULP government, when they are grossly incompetent, bankrupt of ideas and money to create a strong country, and lack the leadership and capacity to manage the country in a skilled and proficient way.

SVG is virtually destitute.

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

investors through capital markets — bonds.

- And a combination of the above.

- It’s about matching the financial instruments to its specific use.

- Smart spending is demanded.

- We need more money and smarter money to reach the SDGs. Susan Mc Adam goes on: - That the SDGs cost cannot be easily estimated. Trillions are needed each year around the world for the goals in each nation are different but they are all interrelated. She asks and explains: - Where will the money come from? The form is paying governments taxes or where people save or give or put into banks or invest themselves in companies or bonds or equities or pension funds or mutual funds. Where they will go ahead and spend on development.

Financing for development ultimately is money that comes from you and me and billions of others who in turn entrust it to others, who in turn entrust it to others who invest it and deploy it. In the end we are all stakeholders in the finance for development agenda.

In April 2015, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Asian Development (AsDB), the European for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDBG), and the World Bank Group (WBG), together known as the MDBs and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) presented a joint vision of what we can do, within our respective institutional mandates, to support and finance achievement of the SDGs — through individual and collective to build upon and scale up support (financial), technical assistance and policy advices to enhance the total contribution that we can make to global development. “a dollar in” managed by MDBs result in more than “a dollar out” in financing for development because of expertise. $1 in leads to 2-5 dollars out in 1 new financing. The MDBs and the IMF multiply the capital, subscriptions and contributions invested with them to provide a range of financial support and products to partner countries.

Julian ‘Rockstar’ Williams

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 13.

People

Another successful journey for a cause Mark Sardine will now take a break as he assesses the impact of his herculean undertakings on behalf of national concerns.

MARK SARDINE has chalked up yet another successful round in his ‘kayaking for a cause’ series of events.

This time around, he braved the open channel between St. Vincent and Bequia, kayaking, all in the hope of making St Vincent and the Grenadines a better place for all to live.

Last Sunday, August 20, Sardine successfully completed a trip to Bequia and back to Indian Bay, St. Vincent. He had anticipated doing the return voyage in three hours, but had to settle for a time just a little over the threehour mark, i.e. three hours, five minutes.

He reported to THE VINCENTIAN, saying that he had very little difficulties, “… no cramps, the navigation was good,” adding that had not there been tides “moving from East to West,” he could have made the trek in two Right: Mark Sardine leaving Indian Bay on his most recent Kayak-for-a-cause venture.

hours and forty-nine minutes.

The feat was undertaken with the primary purpose of creating awareness for the current situation here, as it relates to the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the increase in violent crime.

Sardine said now that the event was over, he was making another appeal to all to stand up against the issues of HIV/AIDS and violence.

“If we are dependent on tourism, we cannot have that sort of thing,” he said. “I did my part.”

He explained that he was forced to scrap his initial plan not to stage any events for the year for this project, but having conceded on that original plan, he is recommitting not to venture out until he feels satisfied that his effort has had some impact.

“My next step is to side with country. I will not do any other events until I felt satisfied that we have made progress,” Sardine said.

He further explained

that during his years in the United States, he was part of the MiamiDade and Opa-Locka Police Department’s ‘local and state gun buy back’ team. His contention is that if he was a part of this, then there was no reason why he should not do something to help his own country.

“But one man could only do so much,” he admitted, even as he moved to remind that a violent free and healthy country spoke of immense opportunities.

“In the same way that violence was bad for business in terms of tourism, individuals getting sick and not looking to get tested, had the same type of negative impact on society,” Sardine lamented.

If he was able to venture out, putting himself at risk in order to stand up against a social ill, then the rest of the public ought to be able to stand together to put an end to those plagues, he said. (DD)

14. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organization of Pennsylvania, Inc. (SVGOP), said two bus-loads of nationals trekked from Pennsylvania.

“I think it’s a wonderful idea to have his gathering,” said Cordice, the Clare Valley-born architect of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ participation in the annual Penn Relays at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, before helping to serve rice and peas and other delicacies. “I think it’s a good idea to bring Vincentians together, especially the young.”

Nearby, Lorenzo DeCaul, also a former SVGOP president, who hails from Biabou, “shoot the breeze” with his homeboys Donald Jacobs and Lennox Daniel, a former St. Vincent and the Grenadines Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations.

“It’s good to see people you have not seen for so long in an atmosphere Members of the St. Vincent \Group of nationals from Georgetown, Barrouallie, Troumaca, Chateaubelair, Belair and Grenada. that’s friendly and loving,” said and the Grenadines OrganiDeCaul, sipping a drink from a zation of Pennsylvania in plastic glass. “This is truly what Vincentheir tent. James Cordice is tians are – loving, peaceful. You can’t beat Olson Thomas, also a Georgetown native picnic for the first time, as family friend pictured 2nd from right. us.” and president of the Brooklyn-based St. Ron John of Mesopotamia, barbecued As the initial vice Vincent and the Grenadines Humanitarian chicken on a small grill. “The atmosphere is chair of the VINCY Organization, said the most important good.”

Story and photos by DAY USA Organizing thing to him was meeting friends he had Clyde Griffith of Byera, brought along NELSON A. KING Committee, Daniel said not seen in “donkey years.” his Jamaican friend, who wanted to be naking@verizon.net; he had predicted that “The weather today is beautiful,” said identified only as “G.” kingnaking210@yahoo.com the picnic would Thomas, a retired public and private school “It’s very good, love it!” exclaimed US CORRESPONDENT “expand beyond everyteacher in Brooklyn, and former head Griffith, barbecuing chicken and pork on a one’s expectations. teacher of the Union Methodist School at grill, who lives on Union Street in BrookTHOUSANDS OF VINCEN“Vincentians get the home, who attended the picnic for the 4th lyn. “The unity, my Vincentian people in TIANS from all walks of life on opportunity to display a consecutive year. “This is nice. We’re one place, the togetherness – it’s a beautiful Saturday converged on variety of Vincentian enjoying it.” thing.”

Heckscher State Park in East dishes, including my Audrey Horne of Georgetown, Silvern Calbert Pierre of Chateaubelair was Islip, Long Island, outside favorite breadfruit and Hackshaw of South Rivers, Joyce James of hanging out with his girlfriend Shelly King New York City, for the annual bowljowel [saltfish Kingstown, and Ann White of Troumaca, of Belair, and his daughter Shirley John of Vincy Day USA Picnic. mixed with onions, feasted on pelau a short distance from the Prospects.

Nationals, friends and peppers, cucumbers, central stage.

“It’s a good thing,” they said, in unison, supporters from across the tomatoes and other “It’s the best thing for the closing of the about the picnic. “You re-acquaint with United States and Canada, ingredients],” he said. summer, and we look forward to it,” said friends you have not seen in a long time.

Enjoying the picnic -- Sitting, Audrey Horne (L) of Greggs and and even from home, “It’s always an opportuHackshaw, stressing that she is a “true, It’s a good outing.”

Silvern Hackshaw of South Rivers; Standing, Joyce James (L) descended on the picturnity to meet new true Vincy.”

The James cousins, of South Rivers – of Kingstown, and Ann White of Troumaca. esque campgrounds, in friends within St. “It just come here to relax and to see Cheryl, Daphne and Lana – shared their picture-perfect weather, for Vincent and the Grenapeople I’ve not seen in a very long time,” meals and drinks, as most picnicgoers, with the 6th annual family day. dines and the wider Horne added. passersby. and saltfish, blackfish, callaloo soup, pelau, Picnic-goers feasted on mouth-watering Caribbean CommuniAllison Vincent of Belair, came from “It’s good that Vincentians get together souse and roasted corn – and washed them Vincentian delicacies – such as breadfruit ty.” home to be part of the Vincy get-together. once a year for this special event, which down with local drinks – mauby, ginger and Daniel met Olton “I’ve heard and read about it in papers, we’re so proud of,” said Daphne, a regissorrel beers, and Ju-C. Olliver, of Barrouallie, and it’s nice,” said Vincent, attending the tered nurse at St. Luke-Roosevelt Hospital They also, among a host director of Site Engiin Manhatof other things, renewed neering with New York tan, serving acquaintances, “old talked” City Department of as the and partied before the huge Design and Construcunofficial stage on the eastern end of tion, for the first time. spokesperson the mammoth grounds, “I support it [picnic] for the where soca and reggae because it promotes family. “Nice artistes entertained the togetherness among to see crowd.

Vincentians,” said the everybody “We feel at home, we feel South Ozone Park, together, welcomed, we’ll come again,” Queens resident. “This drinking, said Millicent “Millie” is the only time when I having fun.

Johnson, sitting at a table have the opportunity to It’s a beautiwith her sisters, Frances and be among a large ful day, and Althea, in a VINCENTIAN amount of Vincentians.” we love the interview. The Johnson Marlene Alves of spirit of sisters – all Georgetown Bequia said she was unity and natives and Brooklyn able to reconnect with a togetherresidents – attended the high school classmate ness.” picnic for the very first time. after over a decade.

James “It’s good to see so many “It’s like rejuvenaCordice, the people,” chimed in Althea. tion,” she said. “Hopeformer “It’s really nice.” fully, we’ll get to have a president of Frances agreed: “It’s Chilling out, L-R: Lennox Daniel (Bridgetown/Biabou), Olton soiree in the near the Philadelbeautiful. I’ll love to come Oliver (Barrouallie), Donald Jacobs (Biabou) and Lorenzo Members of the Biabou group participate in Sack Race. future.” phia-based again.”

DeCaul (Bridgetown/Biabou).

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 15.

Crispin and Ancilla Friday brought along their two daughters, Christine and Krisann.

“It’s a loving atmosphere, there’s no animosity,” said Ancilla, who hails from Ratho Mill.

“When you come to New York, everybody is together.

Everybody lets their arms down in peace and unity.”

“It’s a homogenous feeling,” added Crispin, a former Beachmont, Kingstown resident, who Members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Association of traces his roots to Massachusetts in front of their banner.

Bequia. “I’ll like this togetherness to transfer to back home.

There’s no politics in it [VINCY DAY USA Massachusetts, said two busloads of nationPicnic].” als came from Massachusetts.

Junior Hewitt, president of the St. “We all feel good coming down [to the Vincent and the Grenadines Association of picnic],” said the Sion Hill, Kingstown native, flanked by his wife, Ann, of Dorsetshire Hill, Kingstown, and other members of the group. “We’re glad we got lots of people to come down, and we’re looking forward to having more people come next year.”

Left: Members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Association of Massachusetts in front of their banner.

Below: Charles Thompson, in red t-shirt (centre), leads Chateaubelair natives as they surround banner promoting Christmas Lighting Project.

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16. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

September: Busy month at the Youlou Art Centre

The Youlou Art Centre at Villa.

SEPTEMBER IS SET TO BE a month of heightened activity at the Youlou Art Centre at Villa.

Beginning September 2, Ms Annella Campbell will conduct a Basic Sewing Workshop. The workshop is spread over eight weeks, and participants will be exposed to the fundamentals of garment making, i.e. how to take measurements, make seams and alterations, manipulate darts and structural lines, among other skills.

Next on the month’s activities is the Children’s Art Workshop, dubbed Hello Art. This workshop gets going on Saturday, September, 9th, and is open to children age 5 to 12. Classes will be from 10 am to 12 noon.

Hello Art is an introduction to the art making process. Children will be exposed to a variety of media such as water colour painting, print making, painting, ink wash, and paper crafting.

They will be guided through the workshop by Ms. Youlanda Holder Woods who believes in having fun while making art.

The adults are not excluded. Adult Art Classes are scheduled to commence on Tuesday, September 12th. These classes offer adults the opportunity to explore a variety of art making techniques, such as still life, water colour painting, figure drawing and print making. This art class will be taught by Ms. Youlanda Holder Woods.

Meanwhile the The Red Show is still on display at the Youlou Art Centre and will run until the end of October.

Persons desirous of enrolling in the workshop can contact the Centre at 457 4493 or email youlouartcentre@gmail.com.

Liberators donate supplies to MCMH In presenting the items, Mr. Artis Davis, President of Vincy Liberators SVG, stated that his organization was pleased to be of assistance to the Hospital in this manner, and promised further assistance in the future.

Ms. Karen Johnson, who represented the Hospital Administrator, thanked the Members of Vincy Liberators SVG, including members of Vincy Liberators President Artis Davis (right), and Ms. Karen SVG for their kind donation, Johnson (2nd from left) at the presentation and wished that the ceremony. collaboration betweenthat organization and the MCMH ON 22ND AUGUST, 2017, Vincy would continue to grow.

Liberators SVG handed over a Ms. Johnson assured that the quantity of supplies, including adult supplies and equipment will be of disposal diapers and walkers, to the great benefit to the patients at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. facility. (Contributed).

V Speak up - Support Seek help A statement from the NCW

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 17.

Women

THE NATIONAL COUNCIL of Women condemns all acts of violence; particularly those which continue to be committed against women!

Domestic violence can happen to anyone, no matter the ethnicity, income level or religion.

It often happens in the last place one expects to find abuse, which is in an intimate trusting relationship with a partner.

For the person looking from the outside of an abusive relationship, they may question why a person doesn’t just pick up and leave.

Studies have shown that domestic violence victims are often seduced and charmed into believing that it will never happen again, and they are often isolated from friends and family.

They are also brainwashed into

believing that they, and even their children who also suffer from the trauma of abuse, are unable to survive without their abuser, on whom they become dependent.

Victims often feel uncared for and even responsible for their abuse.

Seeking help soon becomes a shameful thing, and they develop coping mechanisms to not “agitate” their abuser.

It is very important that family, friends and society in general do not make victims of domestic violence feel that they are “foolish” for staying with their abusers.

Victims of domestic violence need to know that they are supported and should be constantly reminded that help is available, whether through the Social

Welfare Department, the church, an appropriate department of the Police Force or a voluntary organization such as Marion House.

We express our sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims of the recent heinous and inhumane domestic violence incidents which resulted in fatality.

We remember the mother of eight from Mesopotamia, who was stabbed and later succumbed to her injuries. We also feel the loss in the brutal way that a mother of two from Biabou was doused with a flammable liquid, set afire, and sometime after passed away in the intensive care unit.

It seems like an evil spirit of anger and unforgiveness has taken over our land, and moreso now than ever,

we need to be reminded of the instructions of the ‘Our Father’s Prayer’ to, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

We call on our men folk to be more patient with and kind to our women folk. If you feel anger and jealousy rising, walk away, get help. Do not seek revenge; ask Jehovah God to break the spirit of pride and be humble.

While we commend the hardworking officers of the Royal St. Vincent & the Grenadines Police Force, we also ask them to never simply brush off reports of domestic abuse/violence. We implore them to continue to use their training to do as much as they can to address situations of this nature.

Perpetrators must be reminded that there are consequences and penalties if they do not stop the abuse. And victims must be reminded of the options they have which can ultimately save their lives.

We at The National Council of Women send our deepest condolences to those who have been affected by the recent deaths.

We believe that we must truly seek the principles of faith in God as a real solution to these societal ills. But we must also work together as a society to help victims as well as perpetrators to see the errors of their ways and the trauma it causes.

Once again, we sympathize with the families of those who have lost their lives, and call on society to ‘speak

Beverly Richards, President of the National Council of Women. up, support and help victims as well as perpetrators, as we fight to end the scourge of domestic violence.

Beverly Richards President National Council of Women

18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 19.

Court

World Cup Cricket: The Real Test Continued from Page 8.

Prisoners charged with attempted murder

Stories by Haydn Huggins THREE INMATES of Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, who are awaiting hearings in connection with various offences, had two more charges added to their slates this week.

Jomalo Dumbar, 28, of Rilland Hill, Dennis

during which Chewitt was stabbed in the left side of his chest and back. He was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for five days, during which he Richardson, 29, of Glen, and Ian underwent surgery.

Gould, 34, of Lowmans Hill, are The prisoners were not now jointly charged with the required to plead when they attempted murder of remand appeared before Senior inmate Rafe Chewitt of Magistrate Bertie Pompey at Calliaqua, and conspiracy to the Kingstown Magistrate’s commit the offence of murder.

Court on Tuesday. The matter The charges stemmed from was adjourned to September 4 an incident at her Majesty’s and transferred to the Serious prison, Kingstown, on July 31, Offences Court.

“SVG not the Wild West,” gunman warned.

Kimron Thomas, a 25-year-old McKie’s Hill Man who was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm on Monday, has been reminded that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not the Wild West.

The reminder came from Senior Magistrate Bertie Pompey at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, before he sentenced Thomas to five years in prison for possession of a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and two years for having six rounds of 9mm ammunition, to run concurrently.

The facts as presented by Prosecutor Station Sergeant Elgin Richards revealed that Thomas was taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Central Police Station, after being apprehended in Chauncey, South Leeward, in connection with another matter.

While at CID, Thomas was observed to be walking awkwardly. When requested to move his feet, which he did, the firearm fell from his

crotch.

After being cautioned and questioned, Thomas responded, “Officer, me get shot ‘bout two years ago. I carrying to protect meself,… me nah ah tek no chance wid nobody.. me always ha me firearm on me.”

After pleading guilty to the chargeson Wednesday, Thomas, who was unrepresented, told the Magistrate, “I don’t have dis ting on me for any bad boy ting or any gang ting or anyting like dat. Is jus for protection.”

He again explained that he was shot about two years ago, adding that he was still unable to move one of his hands, the result of the injury sustained during the shooting.

But the Senior Magistrate reminded the youngster, “This is not the Wild, Wild West.”

The sentences were handed down two days after the Senior Magistrate had imposed a sixyear jail term on Akeem Ferdinand of Rockies, for possession of a 9mm Uzi.

political question is really more fundamental, and goes to the root of the problem.

The fore-going represents my views on our cricket impasse submitted several years ago to a local Think-Tank as suggested by a West Indies Board in panic.

This year I am still optimistic, with the West Indies Cricket Board President, Ken Gordon that the West Indies somehow will pull out all stops and rise to the occasion.

What with the wealth of talent on parade, I find difficulty to single out individual stars. Gale, Sarwan, Bravo, Lara, Samuels, Chanderpaul to bat, we have the steady bowling and brilliant individual fielding to contain anything that is thrown at us. I have a hunch that Marlon Samuels’ time has arrived.

My bet is on the West Indies to win this World Cup of 2007. But to sustain our victory we still need to go back to basics and, especially, to create a healthy political climate in which the team could thrive.

Addendum Apparently, our cricket crisis has now become recurrent, if not chronic.

Some twenty years ago, our cognoscenti sat in a study group at the Squash Complex in Paul’s Avenue to try and work out some positive solution to our cricket problems.

I think that all three panelists of the newest conclave of last week Radio brain-thrust, Goalen Greaves, Elson Crick and Mike Findlay, were present aided and abetted by Joel Providence and Thornly Myers.

One was invited to submit positive suggestions to be forwarded to the W.I Board of Control, which probably ended up in thin air!

Mike Findlay is considering possibly putting on a programme concerning the growth of a variety of sports in SVG during the post-war years 1945-2000. I, health permitting, am to join him in that exercise. If it does come off, I trust that it fares better than its predecessors.

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20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

There is hope cream in it. You could easily about to advocate throwing be fooled into believing it was in the towel because of this mean you should succumb to marriage back an even footing. a pack of condoms. George, one slip up. Yes, your ego I AM FED UP WITH MY WIFE your emotions and give it all Your marriage will be stronger would be bruised and your judging me wrongfully, and this you should have seen the away. for it. shock on her face! I told her heart shattered by your wife’s past weekend is a perfect Use the services of a that she wanted to sleep with infidelity, but that does not example. counsellor and try to get your George My wife decided to cheat on that guy all along but was just waiting for the me with someone both of us perfect excuse. knew was trying desperately Now the guy is telling to get into her pants. Word came to me that she was seen people how he slept with this friend of mine, but what challenging situations. I suggest Dear George, my wife, and the whole coming out from this guy’s else can I do? that you redouble your efforts to house early one morning, at a thing is weighing me find legitimate ways to settle I HAVE NOT PAID MY RENT down.

I cannot get past time when she told me she had Between the lines your outstanding rent. for the past six months, and my this one, and I have told to work . She works nights. I You can also consider her I want a divorce, but landlord is serious about getting asked her about it, and Dear Between the lines, reaching out to trusted members me out.

A good friend of mine she is still begging me not instead of answering me, she of your family circle for knows my plight and is to go through with it.

I went into her bag and pulled If that friend of yours was as temporary assistance.

However, promising to help me, but says I just cannot find it in my out what appeared to be a good a friend as you claim, then before doing anything else, you need to ‘funds’ up before he pays heart to forgive her. pack of condoms. She he would not put you in a need to speak with a financial for the backlog. I told him this demanded that I explain what position to trade your body for counsellor so that you can set a arrangement could destroy our it was doing in my wallet, but Rock Heart the payment of your rent.

You clear plan for the way forward. friendship, but he does not want before I could even try to tend to know who your friends to hear that. explain, she said that was the Dear Rock Heart, George I am very tempted to do what are when you are faced with reason why she slept with this needs to be It is unfortunate that guy. She said that if I could done, because cheat on her, then she could do your wife rushed into judgement and crossed a I cannot afford it too.

Anyway, I took the so called line that should never be to be on the pack of condom and showed it crossed. The fact that she streets. I and Marion House for starters. These Dear George, would rather is contrite and willing to to her again. It was as an agencies would be able to help you deempty sample packet pf Avon remain in the marriage is not go down stress to a great degree and also point HOW MUCH MORE can a man take?

I this road with a positive sign. I am not am not working (2 years now ) and I you in other directions where you can have 3 children in secondary school. receive assistance. This help may include showing you how to use your talent and Their mother left home some abilities to create revenue, if a job is not months ago and went away with immediately forth-coming. Keep your another man. I do not know how to head up and continue to be the good keep my children in school. A new school is near, and I have not seen a father that you are. red cent to buy the books they would need. The pressure is getting George to me, and I don’t how to handle this.

Dear George,

Resist the temptation

No job… no school books

Crumbling Dear Crumbling, The best place to begin is to explore potential source for assistance. I can suggest the Social Welfare Department

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Ideas may sound good, but be careful if people are just looking for handouts. Problems with your partner could be reaching a high level of concern.

Let others know what your intentions are and be honest in your approach. Catch up on your correspondence and reading.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Time spent with family, children, or good friends will be regenerating and positive. Do not sign contracts or get involved in any uncertain financial deals. Anger might lead to carelessness and minor Injuries. Don't forget to let your mate know how much you care.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Insincere gestures of friendliness are likely to occur. Your best efforts will come through hard work. You are exceptional at presenting your ideas. You are best to listen for the time being.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Be careful not to push your luck or take too much for granted when dealing on either a personal or professional level. Trips should be your choice.

You can help a close friend find solutions to personal problems. Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) You need to get out and be an observer. For now just do the best you can. You will encounter those who can help you further your goals if you attend functions that attract prominent people. You may want to make changes in your home environment.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Family may not want to get involved but an entrepreneur will. Involvement with prestigious organizations will be to your advantage. Your best gains will come through helping others emotionally. You will need a little competition this week. Gel involved in activities that will stretch your stamina.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Be sure to spend time helping children with projects that are too difficult for them to accomplish alone. Your partner could make you angry if they steal your thunder or embarrass you in front of others. Some of your new friends may not be that trustworthy. Use your own ideas to further your interests.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Depression may be likely if you're away from home. You can help other people with their financial problems by setting up a budget for them. You will feel better about yourself and you may also meet potential lovers. Try not to be too harsh with your mate.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Make plans to do the things you enjoy. Back off if you want to keep the relationship intact. Do you really want to start something with someone you can't reason with? Don't exaggerate.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Don't be too hard on yourself. Don't push your mate away. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction. Good friends will give you honest answers.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) You may exaggerate your emotional situation.

Arguments with relatives may lead to a split in the family. You will learn valuable information if you travel this week. Kick your shoes off and relax.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Try not to attempt to do something unless you are fully intent on following through with the plans. Organize social events or family gatherings. You can meet someone who will become very dear to you if you get out and socialize. Secret affairs can only lead to devastating circumstances.

ACROSS 1. Duct for smoke 6. Applauds 11. Breezy 12. Vent 13. Prison 14. Free from confinement 15. Soon I7. Foot of an animal 18. Consume 19. Objectionable 20. Whip to a froth 23. Favored 24. Lubricates 25. Encountered 26. Ten decibels 27. Lodger 31. Savage 33. Doing nothing 34. Lake in W Scotland 35. US space agency 36. Vigor 3. Having eyes DOWN 1. Visage

2. Person who lies 3. Exhort 4. Lacking eyes 5. Enumerate 6. Suspended 7. And so on 8. Venomous snake 9. Delight 10. Boiled slowly 16. Tree of the genus Quercus 19. Glass cabinet 20. Waver 21. Sacred place

22. Illuminate 23. Ocean 25. Covered with mold 27. Sudden explosive

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 21.

noise 28. June 6, 1944 29. Otherwise 30. Peruse 32. Rocky pinnacle

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22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Morris brothers host coaching camp

Desmond ‘Des’ Morris (foreground left) demonstrating a skill.

DESMOND (DES) AND PETE MORRIS, two of this country’s leading football players in the 80s and early 90s, continue to provide training opportunities for the next (L-R): Jesper Broadban and generation of local footballers. Maria Sanzarie - female As they have coaches from the USA. done since 2002, “there is a need for the brothers headed a better coaching team that included two education, structuring, female coaches from the discipline,…

USA, to host a two-week organisational stuff, so camp at the Arnos Vale we can turn the talent Playing field. into something The camp substantial.” accommodated Given all that he is approximately 50 aware of, Des said that youngsters of a wider it has prompted him and age range. his brother towards “We are giving back, thinking about setting and every summer we up an academy here, come back with a dream aimed primarily at to help the kids, giving attending to the them two weeks of fun, development of the knowledge, discipline, young players. This because we believe the (academy), he said, could educational aspect of also serve as a pool from soccer is missing. They which young persons can (the participants) are be identified for very talented, but the scholarships to USA listening as well as the colleges. tactical understanding of Of the actual training the game are missing,” sessions, Jesper Des Morris said.

Broadban, one of the two He also explained that female coaches, said, “it’s the programme has, in a great opportunity to previous years, been show the kids what I taken on the road, know, and it’s very including Mustique, rewarding to see the Bequia, Canouan, Sandy gifted talent that is Bay, Layou, Buccament. here.”

And as he takes a look The other female at the state of football coach - Maria Sanzarie, here, Des said he a goal-keeping specialist, believes the SVG said she recognized a Football Federation different style of play should have a “syllabus” here, and was impressed of sorts, “so that we can with the wide range of see what they are raw talent that the implementing across the participants exhibit. board for the clubs and to the kids in SVG,” I.B.A.ALLEN He also opined that

V SVG snaps two titles in Regional Football Classic

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 23.

T & T Maestros- winners of the Under-13 division.

Under-15 winners- System Three Sports Academy.

HOST ST VINCENT and the Grenadines pouched two of the three titles which were at stake in the Caribbean Children’s Charity Shield Soccer Classic, which concluded last Sunday at the Victoria Park.

Vincentian outfits- System Three Sports Academy and Avenues United, were the local teams which champed in the Under-15 and Under17 divisions, respectively.

In an all Vincentian final, System Three Sports Academy edged Owia United one- nil, thanks to a Malik Ferdinand goal in the 46th minute.

Before reaching the final, System Three registered a 3-0 win over Gall Hill of Barbados, Aaron Collis accounting for the three goals in the 12th, 25th and 41st minutes.

Owia had ousted Paradise of Barbados 2-1 in their semifinal encounter. Netting for Owia United were Raysean Matthias (37th) and Terrason Joseph (53rd). Devon Wiltshire had scored in the 22nd minute for Paradise.

But it was a more dominant performance by Avenues United, when they met

Paradise of Barbados in the Under-17 final.

Avenues United ran out 4-0 winners, by way of goals from Ashroy Patterson (15th), Rahiem Westfield (25th), Garett Leigertwood (37th) and Lisruen Williams (54th).

En route to the final, Avenues swamped Deacons of Barbados, 6-0. Kori Anderson with two goals, and one each from Lesroy Patterson, Garett Leigertwood, Shemar Welcome and Rickel Stapleton, added up Avenues United goals tally.

In the other semi- final, Paradise won 5-4 in kicks from

the penalty spot, after they and Morvant of Trinidad and Tobago, had played to a 1-1 tie in regulation time.

T & T Maestros beat Pinelands of Barbados 4-0 to win the Under-13 division.

Awards Taking the Most Outstanding Goal-keeper award in the Under-13 division was Kareem Grant of Volcanoes of SVG; Best defender- Kelon Carrington of Pinelands (Barbados), and Best Midfielder and Most Valuable Player- Abdul Quddoos Hipolyte of T & T Maestros.

Dennelson Kennedy of T & T Maestros was the top Goal scorer with 12 goals. T & T Maestros were adjudged the Most Disciplined Team.

The Most Outstanding Goal-keeper in the Under-15 division was copped by Renaldo Tidd of Creek of Trinidad and Tobago, while winning the Most Goals Award was Akiel King of Gall Hill of Barbados.

Aaron Collis of System Three Sports Academy was the Most Valuable Player and the Best Midfielder awardee. Iruel Matthews of Owia United won the Best Defender award.

And, in the Under-17 age category, Garett Leigertwood

MVP- Under-15 Aaron Collis. of Avenues United, collected the Most Valuable Player, Best Midfielder and Most Goals award, with Joash Nash, also of Avenues United, the Best Defender.

Paradise’s Naston Browne was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper.

It was the fourth edition of the Caribbean Children’s Charity Shield Soccer Classic, which was staged by the Hamilton Lashley Foundation of Barbados.

The previous editions were staged in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana.

St Lucia is set to host the next edition in 2018.

FLOW Radcliffe retains Premier Cricket Title

Garett Leigertwood U-17 MVP.

Avenues United- Under-17 champions

FLOW RADCLIFFE have retained their NLA Premier Division Cricket title.

They did so with an innings and 89run whipping of Victors One, in a match played last Saturday and Sunday at the Sion Hill Playing Field. With that victory, FLOW Radcliffe closed the season on 152 points to overtake Police Two and Team Rivals, who were leading the points standing on 142 points each, going into last weekend’s match.

The repeat champions had much for which to thank offspinner Dyke Cato.

Through what was reported to be pain in Dyke Cato bagged 5 for Wayne Harper hit 104 for Flow both his shoulder and knee, he Radcliffe. persevered to snare 5 wickets for 18 runs 18 for Flow Radcliffe. in Victors One’s second innings, Bascombe made 42 for Victors, with Lindon including the last wicket to fall.

Earlier, FLOW Radcliffe chose to take first use James - former national wicket-keeper cum bowler, taking 3 wickets for a miserly 9 runs. of the crease, and batted through Saturday into Asked to follow on, Victors One looked to have Sunday, to post 264 for 3 before declaring, with all but conceded defeat and limped to 95 all out, Wayne Harper hitting 104 not out, his second having failed, as referenced earlier, to negotiate century of the season, and Richie Richards 70. the off spin of Cato. Bascombe was again the top Harper struck six fours and three sixes, while scorer with 44.

Richards hammered six fours and six sixes.

Victors One fared miserably in their first I.B.A.ALLEN innings, managing a mere 80 all out. Miles

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24. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Barbados takes overall Senior CASA title Winner of the Women’s 50 and Over- Lyn DecambraMc Leod accepts her award from Hon. Cecil Mc Kie.

James Bentick (right) champion of the Men’s over – 40, gets his trophy from Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture- Hon Cecil Mc Kie. Freelance journalist —

Special Awards Rohan Thomas, was The Barbados Squash team – winners of the 2017 NLA Senior CASA Tournament.

BARBADOS WERE CROWNED the overall champions of the XXV Senior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Tournament which ended last Saturday at the National Squash Centre at Paul’s Avenue.

Barbados were first in the Veterans segment, second in the Women’s and third in Men’s play.

In taking the veterans title, Barbados had a 3-2 triumph over Trinidad and Tobago.

Victorious for the Barbadians were: Lyn Decambra Mc Leod, who blanked Ru Celestine, 11-0, 11-0, 11-0; Don Benn who bettered Peter Pirtseesingh 11-2, 11-8, 12-14, 11-3; and Mark Sealey who beat John Holley 11-8, 11-7, 11-7.

Trinidad and Tobago’s two wins came from Richard Hart who had an 11-7, 9-11, 11-4, 11-3 victory over Leon Trus, and Rhea Khan over Andrea Goodridge 11-7, 11-6, 11-2.

It was Barbados’ seventh successive lien on the Veterans title.

Guyana championed both the Men’s and Women’s categories.

The Guyanese men outdid Jamaica 3-2, beating their opponents for the first time since 2014.

Wins by Jason Roy Khalil, Nyron Joseph and Richard Chill crafted Guyana’s victory.

Khalil beat Tahjia Lumley 11-9, 11-2, 11-8; Joseph saw off Johnathan Walker, 11-6, 11-4, 11-6, and Chin overpowered Julian Morrison, 119, 12-10, 11-6.

For Jamaica, Christopher

Binnie swamped Sunil Seth 11-7, 11-1, 11-6, and Bruce Burrowes defeated Alex Arjoon 11-7, 11-7, 3-11, 11-1.

Guyana’s women stopped their Barbados counterparts, also 3-2, to claim their fourth title in four years.

Larissa Wiltshire, Victoria Arjoon and Taylor Fernandes were all in winners’ row for Guyana.

Wiltshire outlasted Jada Smith Padmore 11-6, 11-411-4; Arjoon stopped Sumaira Suleman 11-4, 113, 11-9, and Fernandes was a victorious over Lilianna White, 11-4, 11-4, 11-3.

Barbados’ wins came from Megan Best over Ashley Khalil, 11-1, 11-4, 11-4, and Karen Meakins over Mary Fung A Fat, 11-5, 11-6, 11-5.

During the closing ceremony for the 2017 NLA Senior CASA Tournament held last Saturday night at the Bungalow at Villa, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association gave recognition to two persons.

recognised for his promotion of Squash during the lead up to the 2017 Senior CASA Tournament, and former President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association- Dr Sherian Slater, for her long standing service to the sport.

The 2017 Senior Squash

Dr Sherian Slater (right) receives her award from James Bentick President of the SVG Squash Association.

Tournament saw participation by 96 players from Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, the OECS, Bermuda, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

Zonal U-15 Cricket continues

MATCHES IN THE 40 Overs a side SVG Cricket Association Zonal Under-15 Cricket Tournament continued last Monday and Tuesday.

In fact, matches were expected to continue for the balance of this week.

On Monday, South Windward/St. George recorded a seven-wicket victory over Kingstown, in a match played Veterans’ individual at the Sion Hill Playing Field. awards Kingstown won the toss and elected to bat, but lost wicket Regaining the Men’s Over regularly through their 40 was James Bentick of the innings, and eventually closed OECS. Bentick won in 2013, on 82 after 27.1 overs. Left2014 and 2015. Rhea Khan arm seamer Keadon Hackshaw of Trinidad and Tobago, won accounted for five Kingstown the Women’s 40 and Over wickets for a paltry four runs age category for 2017 . in three overs.

The Barbadian pair of Hackshaw returned with the Mark Sealey and Lyn bat to contribute 31 runs to Decambra Mc Leod trumped South Windward/St. George’s the Men’s and Women’s 50 rather easy victory, his team and Over age group, reaching 88 for 3 in 12.4 overs. respectively. It was Sealey’s On Tuesday, there were fourth straight hold on the wins for Central Windward title. and North Leeward.

And, Trinidad and Central Windward defeated Tobago’s Richard Hart was North Windward at the Park again the champion for the Hill Playing Field. third year, in the 60 and North Windward won the Over Men’s segment.

toss but asked their opponents to take first knock. Central Windward reached 133 in 36.1 overs, with Randy Joseph topscoring with 42.

Damary Ashton, 3/12 and Terry Ashton Jr., 3/31 were the leading bowlers for North Leeward.

Set 134 for victory, North Windward fell short of the target by 29 runs. Terry Ashton top-scored with 44, but O’Jay Mathews has hit the first his team failed to get century in the 2017 Zonal U-15 on top of Irvin Cricket Tournament.

Warrican Jr. 4/9, and ball and reached 129 in 29.4 Kyle Bobb, 4/19.

Meanwhile, fresh from their overs. Matthews continued his good form to top-score with 41. victory over Kingstown the Joe Williams and Marcus previous week, in which their captain and left-handed opener Thomas led the bowling for West St. George with 3/26 and O’Jay Matthews had cracked 2/15 respectively. an unbeaten 120, North Shaeem Samuel, 4/8, and Leeward recorded their third victory of the tournament when Cladius Robertson, 3/15, were they defeated West St. George just too good for their opponents who closed at an by 29 runs. even 100.

In the match played at the Sion Hill Playing Field, North Leeward took first strike of the I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 25.

Sports

Black Boycott ENGLISHMAN GEOFF BOYCOTT, known for his outspokenness on cricket, has apologised for comments suggesting that he might have been knighted if he was black.

The remark sparked immediate reaction, for in this race sensitive era, anything remotely controversial comes swiftly under the microscope.

Boycott’s outlook comes as no surprise. He is Yorkshire oriented and English history tells us that acceptance of racial harmony was more commonplace in other counties than inYorkshire.

What Boycott might have done is to expose the dominant traits of the British society. They have recently made it clear that the European Union is not exactly their cup of tea.

Examples of inhumane treatment to all and sundry have become a feature of Britain. Those of other ethnicities have suffered.

Africa endured a prolonged period of oppression, and so have the Garifuna, Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Australian Aborigines, Maoris and Palestinians.

You could bet your last dollar that anything to do with oppression, Britain would have something to do with it. Check the demise of the Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. You would see England’s complicity in the conspiracy to liquidate him.

The sustenance of the apartheid regime was largely due to England’s propping up of that regime. I will not be hoodwinked by Boycott’s snide utterances.

Neither am I flattered by compliments or expressions of goodwill by supposedly neutral observers. It is clear that the rules are invariably altered so that the black man gets the worse end of the deal.

Take a look at what happens in the USA, and one will see that black people are shot and killed at increasing frequency. And what pervades is that the perpetrators are given some platform for them to walk free.

It is perhaps historical that two Vincentians will be on a senior West Indies cricket team at the same time. I will have to delve into the records to see if I can uncover such a precedence.

Earl Robinson will assure of the details as soon as he gets in touch with me. Sunil Ambris’ inclusion is perhaps the weight of a silent avalanche that was bearing down on Cricket West Indies.

He was in the squad previously, only to be side-lined while others of lesser competence, record and ability were allowed to “walk into the Team.”

Kesrick Williams can also be described as an object of injustice. He came to the fore in a roundabout manner. This was thanks to a scout who saw the talent in him. Kesrick was afforded the opportunities to advance and he grasped them with gusto. Even after he broke through the barriers, he had to endure the initiation, until once given the chance, Kesrick broke through.

There has been no stopping since, and he continues to push for a place in all formats for the West Indies.

Having been called in as a replacement for Shannon Gabriel, Kesrick was unceremoniously dumped, once Gabriel returned to fitness. That despite the fact that Kesrick had shown that Gabriel or not, he merited selection on the full party.

The West Indies’ performance in the first test will be remembered as one of the worst in history. One thing is that they can only improve.

Players have to assume their responsibility for their actions. There is no explanation for a display as horrendous as this recent one.

Tennis titles decided at ITF Junior Tournament

Male Singles winner- Eliot Spirrizzirri.

The female doubles final was also anti-climatic. Odette Beagrie (USA) and Remika Ohashi of Japan trumped 3-6, 21, over the combination of Breunich and Rojas, who had retired in the second set.

Host St Vincent and the Male Doubles winner - Juan Grenadines was represented in Sebastian Dominguez Collado (left) the female segment of the main Jose Daniel Dominquez Collado draw.

However, Ariel Ryan, Amarlia Bahamas in her semi-final Benn, Gabrielle Benn, Alexi showdown, while the Ecuadorian Humphrey and Briann Nash, all outlasted Sofia Camoila Rojas 6-1, exited in the first round.

6-4, in her semi —final play.

Female Singles winner- Willa Bay Breunich.

THE NATIONAL TENNIS Centre at Villa, from 12th August, hosted the National Lotteries Authority International Tennis Federation’s Under-18 segment of the Junior circuit.

The tournament ended last Saturday, with the staging of the Singles and Doubles finals, but were affected by some forfeitures and defaults.

Staying true to his ranking, number one seed Eliot Spirrizzirri of the USA ousted Diego Gonzalez of Venezuela, 6-3, 6-1, to cop the Male title.

Spirrizzirri’s journey to the title saw him disposing of the Netherlands’ Phillip Mercelina, 6-1, 6-I in the first round, followed by a 6-1, 6-0 triumph over Australia’s Charles Dossetter.

The champion overcame a gallant Mann Shah of India, 64, 4-6, 6-1, in the quarter final, and claimed his spot in the final by cruising past Jacobi Bain of the Bahamas, 6-3, 6-2.

Spirrizzi was denied a second title in the doubles.

This, after the other half of his pairing, Roger Lyn of the USA, forfeited the final.

It meant the duo of Jose Daniel Dominquez Collado and Juan Sebastian Dominguez Collado, of Guatemala was handed the title.

A similar case occurred in the Female final. Mell Elizabeth Reasco Gonzalez of Ecuador gifted Willa Bay Breunich of the USA, the title.

Breunich though was leading 4-2 in the first set.

Breunich had a 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 win over Sydney Clarke of the

“Get it back,” Grant Connell STAKEHOLDERS OF TENNIS here have been called out to ensure that the Under-14 category of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Junior Tennis circuit, hosted

by St Vincent and the Grenadines, annually, during the month of August, is back on the agenda.

Making the call was former President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association (SVGTA) — Grant Connell.

“We have to get all engines running and ensure that, come 2018, we get back the Under 14s,” Connell pleaded.

“We have to ensure that the two additional courts are built… The loss of the Under- 14 is priceless and to our Tennis development,” added Connell.

The 2017 National Lotteries Authority sponsored tournament only had the Under 18s contesting, but did not feature the Under-14s, since two additional courts required for accommodating same, were not available at the National Tennis Centre, Villa.

Reports are that the SVGTA is in discussion with officials from the SVG Community College, to have the two courts on their facility incorporated into the existing courts at the National Tennis Centre.

When the Under-14 component of the tournament was held here in 2016, it took place at the Buccament Bay Resorts. However, that facility has since ceased operations.

In commenting on the economic benefits of hosting the Under 14s, Connell expounded, “Our country benefits tremendously, because these players (Under 14s) are still at that age, they often travel with the parents and coach, which is an additional revenue earner for the

Grant Connell, a former president of SVG Tennis Association, made an impassioned plea for two addition courts at Villa, to accommodate the ITF Under 14 circuit. country.”

It was under the presidency of Connell that the first ITF Junior Tournament came to these shores in 2007, and has been an annual feature since, during the month of August.

Connell said that in addition to his call for the two courts, he would like to see a greater emphasis placed on the upkeep of the National Tennis Centre.

“We have a beautiful facility, filled with aesthetics, but we have to continue to make sure that it is maintained and always be in tiptop shape”, he urged.

He cautioned that if we slip up, others are waiting to take the “whole hog” from us.

The National Tennis Centre was opened in 2000. It was a gift to the government and people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, from the government and people of the Republic of China on Taiwan.

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26. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Classifieds

FOR SALE 115 Outboard Yamaha Engine Tel:784-430-6299

FARM HANDS NEEDED For pig farm located in the Marriaqua Valley Tel: 784-430-6299

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, 2017. 27.

Classifieds

VEHICLE FOR LEASE Black Nissan XTrail in excellent condition 3 month lease agreement $900 EC weekly Contact: 1 246-850-3975 Serious enquiries only.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

FOR SALE

IN MEMORIAM

1-20 ft Reefer Container Serious inquiries Call: 497-8781

IN MEMORIAM In loving memory of our Dear Mother, Grand-Mother & Great-Grand-Mother MRS IPHIGENA WALROND Formerly of Bequia, Paul’s Avenue & Toronto, Canada Who departed this life August 27th, 2012

‘Gone but not forgotten’

Five years have gone by since you left us Remembering you as always Comforted be so many, many memories.

ROBERT YOUNG Better known as Treldon

Sadly missed by Sylvia, Elton, Seymour, Petra & Maureen, grand-children & great grand-children

Rest in peace

The family of the late MALDER ‘ETHEL’ CUPID-KELLY of Clare Valley express our appreciation for the love and support of those who have sympathised with us during our bereavement.

You can only have one mother, Patient, kind and true.

No other friend in all the world Will be the same to you.

Sadly missed by children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, relatives and friends.

KETHER A. PATTERSON

MRS. HARRIETTE NAOMI STERLING

77 Years Church of Christ Langley Park, Georgetown Sunday 20th August, 2017 3:00 p.m.

Wesleyan Holiness Church Layou Saturday 19th August, 2017 2:00 p.m.

Glad Tidings Tabernacle Gomea Saturday 19th August, 2017 2:30 p.m.

HUDSON BAPTISTE New Testament Church of God Wilson Hill Saturday 19th August, 2017 2:00 p.m.

In loving memory of our dear son RAYMOND KENRICK SLATER aka KENNY of Barrouallie, who departed this life on August 25th 2016.

Today marks your first anniversary of the day we lost you.

They say memories are golden. Well maybe that is true. But we never wanted memories, we only wanted you. We only think of you as resting from sorrows, and tears in a place of warmth and comfort, where no shadows fall.

Thinking of those hearts that you have touched, for nothing loved is ever lost.

You will always be remembered by father, mother, son, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, other relatives and friends.

May your soul rest in peace.

JASON WILLIAMS St. Benedict R.C. Church Georgetown Saturday 19th August, 2017 2:00 p.m.

JERVIN THOMAS Ashton Gospel Hall Union Union Island Monday 21st August, 2017 2:00 p.m.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

AUGUST 25, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.34

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Lewis out!!! Graham one foot in Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has come out early in calling out Graham, ensuring that he remains steadfast in his support of Camillo, his son and current MP for East St. George THE MATTER OF THE RESULTS of the December 9, 2015 general elections in relation to at least two constituencies here are being questioned through the courts, but the appellant in that court battle, the opposition New Democratic Party, is already looking to ready itself early for any eventuality.

In a statement on Sunday last, the party announced at least one candidate change for the next general elections, constitutionally due by march 2021. That change affects the East St. George Constituency, where Colin Graham has been named as the party’s constituency group’s choice to replace the four times loser Dr. Linton Lewis.

Reports are that Graham defeated Bert François and Ingrid Punnett in a run-off held last week Thursday, August 17.

Graham, a radio personality with Hot FM, now awaits ratification by the Central Committee of the NDP, before he can be officially presented to the constituency.

In welcoming his selection, the party described Graham as “a vibrant youth voice, an icon of local radio and an outstanding contributor to our culture.”

For his own part, Graham took to social media (Facebook) to say: “The people of ESG and the New Democratic Party have given, what many would say an ‘average’ man like me a chance to make a difference not only in my constituency but by extension my country. That alone should speak loudly about how much the NDP believes in our people, and

that everybody regardless of their background can make a meaningful contribution to the betterment and upliftment of SVG. NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE, ONE VOTE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.” Should Graham’s selection be ratified, he is expected to do battle in East St. George against the Unity Labour Party’s Camillo Gonsalves, the son of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. The Dr. Linton Lewis is a fouryounger Gonsalves successfully contested that time loser as an NDP candidate – three times in seat for the first time in East St. George and once in Colin Graham, radio personality, is one step away from 2015, and with some being officially declared the NDP candidate for East St. West St. George. aplomb, retained it on George. behalf of the ULP. Meanwhile, speaking on eminently the ULP-owned Star FM on Monday qualified, and a formidable candidate. academically for the task at hand, and called on Graham to declare his evening, Prime Minister Gonsalves Lewis’s record at the polls shows “educational credentials” for the East raised concern about Graham’s otherwise, as far as it relates to his St. George constituency to see. ‘qualifications’, describing the choice of favour with voters.

Graham, from all accounts, has not the young man as being in stark PM Gonsalves, it appeared, sought responded directly to the Prime contrast to his predecessor, Dr. Linton to belittle Graham as being underMinister’s beckoning.

Lewis, whom he described as an qualified, if not unqualified

Dr. Ferdinand not turning away from politics OPPOSITION SENATOR Dr. Julian Ferdinand says that his decision not to avail himself for future consideration as the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the West St George constituency, does not mean that he has turned away from active politics.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN via telephone on Wednesday, Dr. Ferdinand explained that he had requested not to be considered as the candidate for West St George on the grounds that he has a tight schedule at the University of the West Indies, where he lectures, and that in anticipation that there will be snap elections, it would have meant that he would not have been able to effectively fulfil his obligation to the party.

“So I decided that it was in the best interest in the party and country

that I step aside,” he said.

Ferdinand admitted that he could be wrong with the prediction of a snap election, but still held out that a high possibility was that the next General Elections could be held before the 2021 date when it is constitutionally due.

“And when you look at this, the responsible thing for me to do is to step aside in anticipation of a snap election,” he reiterated.

Dr. Ferdinand emphasized that he continued to fully support the NDP. Earlier this week, news broke that prominent lawyer Kay BacchusBaptiste was being considered to replace Dr. Ferdinand as the candidate to contest the West St George constituency against, more than likely, the incumbent Cecil McKie. Dr. Ferdinand, lecturer, columnist,

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

Dr. Julian Ferdinand was said to have brought a breath of fresh air to a style of politics that had become stale. author and business consultant, first contested the seat back in the 2015 General Elections and was subsequently appointed as one of the two opposition senators in Parliament. (DD) See related story on Page7.

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