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FRIDAY,

JUNE 29, 2018

Ricardo ‘Shrek’ McFee, the other accused to be found not guilty of murder last Tuesday, was earlier this year discharged at the PI level on an attempted murder charge.

VOLUME 112, No.26

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Sejilla McDowall, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), literally determined the outcome of the case when she told the Court that the Prosecution was offering no further evidence. the killer(s).

Martin ‘Jahson’ James and Ricardo ‘Shrek’ McFee, both of Villa, walked free from the High Court on Tuesday after being acquitted on charges of murdering the baby, Martin ‘Jahson’ James, one wounding the infant’s parents of the accused who walked with intent, and attempting free last Tuesday. to murder Monty Hillocks of Belmont, in connection with a shooting incident at Glen.

by HAYDN HUGGINS QUESTIONS SURROUNDING the October 7, 2016 shooting death of 9month-old Mozarie Lee, and the wounding of his parents Mozart Lee and Shelly Ann Durham, remain unanswered, following Tuesday’s acquittal of the two men who were charged in connection with the incident.

And Attorney Grant Connell, one of the defence lawyers in the matter, is calling on the police to find

the shootings, was not true. He had also provided and signed an affidavit, April this year, stating that he did not witness anything, contrary to what he had initially stated.

Continued on Page 3.

Judge directs jury Justice Brian Cottle directed the 12member jury to return formal verdicts of not guilty on all counts, after Acting Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall told the court that the Prosecution was offering no further evidence in the matter.

McDowall’s decision came after Hillocks, the main witness in the case, indicated in his evidence, that a statement he had given to the police Justice Brian Cottle had no other on October 8, 2016, hours after the choice, in the circumstances, than to incident, in which he identified James direct the jury to declare a not guilty and McFee as the persons involved in verdict.

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2. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

The Girls’ High School is expected to defend their title of Best School-Based Steel Orchestra.

Vinlec Junior Pan Fest this Saturday

THE VINLEC JUNIOR PAN Fest, which will be staged this Sunday July 1st, is expected to be a top class show on the Calendar of activities for Vincy Mas 2018. Premier sponsor, St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC), handed over a cheque

valued at EC $35,000 to the President of the Youlou Pan Movement (YPM), Ms. Oneka Morgan on Wednesday, June 27th.

The revered show will see eight school bands and five community bands, including two from Union Island, firing

up Carnival City, Victoria Park. The 2017 Junior Pan champions in the school based and community categories respectively — Girls’ High School and the Sion Hill Euphonium - would be defending their titles.

The other competing bands in the school bands category include the Marriaqua Government School, Sandy Bay Government School, Bethel High School, C.W Prescod Primary School, Union Island Secondary School, South Rivers Methodist School and Troumaca Government School. The community bands category will see Symphonix, Starlift, Genesis and debutants Union Island Combined vying for the top spot.

President of the YPM, Oneka Morgan, says she is grateful for VINLEC’s continued contribution which spans over 10 years, explaining that it was an important investment in the steel pan art form and in the young musicians. She said she expects a good season for pan during this year’s Carnival as

the YPM has created momentum from the activities held earlier in the year, noting that these activities were also in keeping with promoting the organization’s 40th anniversary.

Ms. Morgan explained that the Junior Fete World, with bouncing castles and face painting, will be held throughout all the junior carnival activities, including the Junior Pan Fest. She is calling on patrons of steel pan to support the young persons involved in the competition as the YPM continues to advance the art form.

Communications Officer, VINLEC, Tamara Job-Sprott says that VINLEC’s relationship with pan spans over many years, and that the Company is honoured to be associated with promoting and developing this art form.

She is encouraging the public to support the young artistes who have been working hard over the past months to put on a splendid performance.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 3.

News 3

DPP discontinues baby’s murder case from the defence.

Bruce added that, under The prosecution’s case was cross-examination at the PI, hinged on the statement of the investigator Inspector October 8, 2016, and therefore Sherol James admitted that a could not proceed without it. statement McFee had given to the police during an electronic Defence lawyers review the interview, that he was at a case shop in Glen when the incident was reported to have Speaking with THE occurred, was confirmed by the VINCENTIAN minutes after persons who McFee said were the case collapsed, Connell, as in the shop, at the time. who represented James, and Those persons included the Israel Bruce, who defended shopkeeper, someone referred McFee, both described the to as ‘Peas-I’ and Martin incident as very unfortunate, James. but said they were confident James had also given a that the case was going to fall. statement to the police, Connell noted that prior to inclusive of an alibi, during an the Preliminary Inquiry (PI), electronic interview, in the Hillocks told the police that presence of his lawyer, but it the initial statement he had was not shown in Court at the given implicating James and PI. Senior Prosecutor McFee, was a lie, but the Adolphus Delpleche had prosecution still continued the indicated that the DVD was case, and it was very not available. unfortunate that his client had Lee and Durham, as well as to spend 14 months on Randy Humphrey, who was remand, in connection with also on the scene at the time of the matter. the incident, had all told the Bruce underscored that Court at the P.I., that they did James and McFee were not see who fired the shots. discharged at the Preliminary Hillocks was slated to Inquiry, April 25 last year, on testify for the Prosecution at charges of murdering the baby the PI, but efforts by the and attempting to murder the Prosecution to secure an child’s parents, after Chief adjournment, to have an Magistrate Rechanne Browne application made for his upheld no case submissions Continued from Front Page.

evidence to be provided through video link, did not succeed.

After McFee and James were discharged at the PI, the DPP’s Office applied for, and was granted a Voluntary Bill of Indictment for the men to stand trial in the High Court, in connection with the matter.

The charges of attempting to murder the baby’s parents, were substituted for wounding with intent, and a charge of attempting to murder Hillocks was added.

Hillocks in the witness box

Grant Connell, defence Israel Bruce, defence lawyer lawyer for Martin James, said for Ricardo McFee, he was confident that the In his evidence to the High questioned the continuation Court on Tuesday, Hillocks of the matter after it appeared case against his client was going to fall. said that on the fateful day, he that certain statements were had gone to the Glen home of not going to stand up in he heard on the radio that he Mozart Lee to install a sound court. was going to be a key witness system. He was helping Lee when the gunshots were fired statement because I feared for for the prosecution.

It was based on this, that from behind, that evening. He my life.”

When Mc Dowall asked why he contacted his lawyer escaped unhurt, but later he identified James and Richard Williams, so that he heard that the baby who was McFee, Hillocks aid, “After (Hillocks) could provide an in his mother’s arms, was hearing speculation, I say affidavit to have the issue killed, and the parents somebody got to pay, but I clarified. injured. He insisted that he didn’t see them. I told the “I told my lawyer that I did not see who fired the police a lie.” didn’t see anyone, and there is shots.

Hillocks said that before the a matter before the Court, and Asked by the Acting DPP PI, he went back to the police, I want to clear their (James why he gave the voluntary and told them he had lied. He and McFee) names because statement to the police the they are innocent”, Hillocks following day, Hillocks replied, said he was never summoned to appear at the PI, but after told the High Court.“I gave the police the the matter was brought back,

Healthy donation TWO MONTHS AGO, the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital benefited from a donation engineered by the group known as MRI. That package included Digital Pulse Oximeter, cotton rolls, cotton balls, suction tubing, latex finger cots, swab sticks, seal tight shower patches, adhesive wrap bandages, betadine pints, and mask boxes.

The team has assumed the responsibility of taking care of a piece of equipment handed over to the MCMH through the National Insurance Services and the Bank of St, Vincent and the Grenadines.

That body comprises Derry Williams, Ossy Davy, Joel Providence, Lennox Bowman, Andre Iton, Keith Boyea and

Dionne Harry George.

The group came to the Institution’s help last Monday with a supply of sheets valued at some $20,000. That was following up a plea made in April for those items.

According to Boyea, their objective is “to assist with the continuous improvement of the health sector.”

That was in April. As if to endorse that statement, Boyea was on hand for last Monday’s fulfilment. It adds to contributions up to $105,663.73 released by the MRI contingent to places like Lewis Punnet Home, Mental Health Centre, National Parks Authority, National Society of and for the Blind, and Special Olympics Association as well

as to civic groups and individuals seeking medical assistance.

They raise their money from a series of activities, one of which is a ‘Carnival Escape’ held over the last nine years. This started at Boyea’s residence and has been taken to the Balcombe’s residence at Indian Bay. It caters for mature adults, and has become a feature of the festivities.

Boyea noted that the affair has been expanding. “All the money goes to charity,” Boyea outlined. It will be held this Sunday.

The presentation party (Keith Boyea far right) at last Monday’s (WKA) handing over of linens to the MCMH.

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

„I ainÊt kill nobody,‰ ÂJahsonÊ declares he exited the High Court building, just after MARTIN ‘JAHSON’ JAMES, Acting Director of Public one of two men who were Prosecutions (DPP) freed this week on charges Sejilla McDowall of murdering 9-month-old discontinued the case Mozarie Lee, unlawfully against him and Ricardo and maliciously wounding ‘Shrek’ McFee, both of the baby’s parents with Villa. intent, and attempting to THE VINCENTIAN murder Monty Hillocks of was unable to get a Belmont, has declared comment from McFee. that he was not involved in James said he had any of the crimes. been on remand for 14 “I didn’t do anything, I months in connection didn’t kill anybody. This with the matter, and he case could have done wants to know where is long time. My name and the redress for him and reputation have been his family. tarnished because of “Justice must not only this,” James told be done, it must appear reporters on Tuesday as to be done.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

“People need justice in St. Vincent. What people suppose to do, if they don’t get justice”? James asked in a loud and emotional manner.

James said that his incarceration, in connection with the matter, has caused pain and suffering to him and his family, and that prison life was not easy.

“I had been sleeping on the floor with bugs”, he said, adding, “I feel good to be free again”.

The charges brought against James and McFee stemmed from a shooting incident at Glen, October 7, 2016.

Victim forgives sex offender SEX OFFENDER Ulric Sam would have received a much longer sentence at the High Court Criminal Assizes on Tuesday, had the victim not indicated that she thinks she should forgive him.

Sam, 21, was sentenced to three years in prison for attempting to have unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. He will serve the first year behind bars, and the next two years will be suspended for 12 months.

Sam was also sentenced to nine months for indecently assaulting the minor, but the sentences are to run concurrently.

The incident occurred at ‘Big Sand’ beach at Sandy Bay around midday, September 7, 2013. The victim was 11 at the time while Sam was close to 17.

Sam was convicted on

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Martin ‘Jahson’ James maintains that he knows nothing and had nothing to do with the shooting death of 9month-old Mozarie Lee.

May 23, but sentencing that this sort of was adjourned. behaviour would not be The evidence revealed tolerated. (H.H) that the girl had gone to the beach to pick up shells. Sam asked her why she wouldn’t ‘give him a chance’, grabbed Student robbed her breast, and tried to Police are investigating a Robbery that occurred have sex with her. She in Gun Hill, on the 20.06.2018, about 5:30pm. cried out, and someone According to reports, Nitra Nash, 20-year-old on hearing her cry, student of Gun Hill was robbed by an unknown shouted to Sam and he named man. The assailant, through the use of released her. force to wit “striking her, causing her to fall on the Justice Cottle told him ground,” robbed Nash of one (1) Grey I-Phone 6 that he took into account cellular phone, valued at $850.00US, and the victim was not $645.00ECC in Cash. physically harmed at the time of the incident, that Thief thinks technical he had no previous Police arrested and charged Marlo Wilkins, 35convictions, and that year-old old labourer of Green Hill, for the theft of: according to a Social two (2) Pliers value $70/00ECC; one (1) Blow Inquiry report, the victim Torch value $135.00ECC; one (1) Multi-Metre thinks she should forgive value $400.00ECC; three (3) Screw Drivers value him. $60.00ECC; one (1) Cooper Tube Cutter value “Without her forgiving $35.00ECC; one (1) Allan Key set value you, I would have $40.00ECC and two (2) Adapter fittings value imposed a much longer $120.00ECC. sentence,” Cottle told the The items, belong to Elvis Sandy, a 37-year-old youngster.

Technician, and the incident occurred at Lower The judge pointed out Bay Street, Kingstown, between 11:40am and that the Court has to 11:50am on 22.06.2018. send a strong message

POLICE HERE said on Tuesday that they are in receipt of a report of an assault on Ronneia DurhamBalcombe, a 31-year-old lawyer who resides at Prospect, and that they are investigating the matter.

The incident is said to have occurred at Prospect on Saturday, about 4:30 p.m.

In a release dated June 25, 2018, the police stated that, according to reports, Ronneia Durham-Balcombe was assaulted by Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Marks, 48-year- old lawyer of Prospect to wit, “By boxing her on the right side of her face” causing actual bodily harm.

Precise Information surrounding the build-up to the incident and the

Robinson guilty of manslaughter

POLICE ROUND-UP

REUBEN ROBINSON, a 56-year-old former police officer, with a history of mental illness, was on Tuesday sentenced to five years in prison for manslaughter and two years for wounding. The sentences are to run concurrently.

Justice Brian Cottle handed down the penalties at the High Court Criminal Assizes on Tuesday, after a 12-member jury found Robinson guilty of unlawfully causing the death of Kemmie Hackshaw of Glen, and wounding Kemmie’s brother Cliff Hackshaw, following a trial in which he was indicted for murder.

On June 29, 2018, Acting Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall informed the High Court that the DPP’s Office had indicted Robinson for murder, in connection with Kemmie’s death. This was after Robinson had been on bail for manslaughter, in relation to the matter, for about five years.

Robinson was reduced to tears when the Acting DPP had informed the Court of that decision. But interestingly, the jury found that Robinson was not guilty of murder, but guilty of the lesser charge.

In handing down the penalties, Justice Cottle said that, given Robinson’s peculiar mental history, the mitigating factors outweighed the aggravating ones. He indicated that it was a peculiar case, in which Robinson was indicted for murder, “in the 11th hour.”

While the maximum penalty for murder is death, manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, and a benchmark of 15 years.

Justice Cottle took into account the seven months Robinson spent on remand, his mental history, and that he had no previous convictions.

In his defence at the trial, Robinson told the Court that Kemmie and Cliff had attacked and beaten him, and he acted in self defence to save his life.

But during cross-examination, McDowall told him, “You chose to take the hammer and pound out the man’s daylight. You showed no remorse. When you were finished, you went after his brother. She indicated that, according to the evidence of two experts, Robinson was found to be mentally stable before and immediately after the incident.

Several witnesses testified for the Prosecution, including Cliff Hackshaw and another brother, Delix Hackshaw.

Attorney Stephen Williams represented Robinson at the trial, but attorney Grant Connell, who had represented him at the Preliminary Inquiry, sat alongside Williams throughout the hearing.

Lawyers tangle actual incident remain, for the most part, unconfirmed, though one source did say that Attorney Ronald Marks and his sister, Patricia Minors, also a lawyer, are implicated in the matter.

However, Marks has denied inflicting a blow on the female lawyer as she claims, since he is currently incapacitated as far as use of his hand is concerned.

Two videos which were circulated on social media, appear to have captured part of a heated exchange, outside a bar, between Ronalds Marks and his sister on the one hand, and Mrs. Durham-Balcombe and her

husband Cameron Balcombe on the other.

There were also charges levelled against Marks that he had brandished a gun during an argument with Cameron Balcombe earlier that day, and this may have escalated leading to the fiasco in front the bar, during which the assault on DurhamBalcombe was said to have occurred.

What is certain is that police had to be summoned to the scene of the exchange of unpleasantries between the parties, and reports are that Marks had to be restrained.

As of press time, Wednesday, no

Ronneia DurhamBalcombe

Ronald Marks

charges had been laid against any of the parties reportedly involved in the incident.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 5.

Regional - Guyana Focus

Guyana in Day of Mourning GUYANA ON MONDAY, June 25, as decreed by President David Granger, observed a national day of mourning for the victims of the massacre of Guyanese fishermen off the Coast of Suriname between April 27 and May 3.

The Guyana flag flew at halfstaff the entire day to demonstrate solidarity with the families of those killed in what has been described by local, regional and international press as grisly and gruesome acts, and to accord due homage, respect and reverence to the memory of the victims.

Many of the relatives of the fishermen expressed appreciation that the day had been set aside in honour of the slain men, saying they found comfort in the fact that the entire nation was in solidarity with them on that day.

“I am happy the government declared the day of mourning because these men were hardworking people and have contributed to both countries and their families, and they deserve to be remembered and recognized and I am glad that the whole

Darmandew Persaud, one of the survivors. (Credit: dpi.gov.gy) country will be mourning with us,” said Arti Sarjoo the sister of victim Mahese Sarjoo.

During the April 27 to May 3 incidents, five boats with 25 crew members were brutally attacked.

Nine people survived the ordeal

Flags were flown at half-staff for the entire day – June 25. (Credit: dpi-gov.gy)

and four bodies were recovered, while 12 men remain missing and are feared dead.

According to survivors, they were assaulted with machetes and forced to jump into the sea by the assailants who are suspected to be of Guyanese heritage.

Some of the survivors also recounted that several victims had batteries tied to their legs.

The Romeina, captained by Deonarine Goberdan, who survived the incident, is believed to have been the first boat attacked. Goberdan survived the attack and he said he drifted for 22 hours until he reached land and notified the police.

Another boat The Joshua, was found submerged in water, allegedly sunk by the pirates after they launched their attack. The captain of the vessel was the lone survivor and has since gone into hiding, fearing for his life.

(Sources: CNS, Guyana Chronicle)

Guyana readying itself for oil boom GUYANA HAS PROJECTED that its first oil would be ready for shipment by 2020, but it is already taking measures to strengthen Guyana’s financial sector and fiscal management capabilities. And towards this end, the Work Bank has approved a US$35M Development Policy Credit.

It is estimated that in excess of 3.7 billion oilequivalent barrels have been discovered in eight reservoirs (wells), and the World Bank wants to ensure that the country is well equipped to transform its oil wealth into human capital.

“This financing provides critical support to our reform agenda and efforts to strengthen institutions and build a resilient economy that is capable of withstanding both external and domestic shocks. These reforms will be key to guide the management of

oil revenues for the benefit of present and future generations,” Finance Minister Winston Jordan said in a statement.

And Tasheen Sayed, World Bank Caribbean Country Director, seemingly in support of the Finance Minister’s assurance, said, “Guyana is making important strides to Tasheen Sayed, World promote financial resilience and Guyana’s Finance Minister Bank Caribbean Country improve fiscal Winston Jordan welcomes Director, recognized Guyana as making strides management, and has the World Bank to promote financial embarked on a broad- assistance as a boost to resilience and improve based reform his government’s reform fiscal management. program. .. These agenda. (Credit: (Credit: JIS) reforms will be key to guyaneseonline) build a strong economy that is those in most need.

Unity + Alliance for underpinned by a Nearly one in four people Change (APNU+AFC) strategic management of in Guyana live in Government has public resources for the poverty, however, embarked on a series of benefit of the Guyanese experts estimate that reforms to diversify the people.”

GDP will surge when economy and turn oil As Guyana looks commercial production of windfalls into human forward to better days, newly-discovered oil and development and government is mindful gas begins. sustainable growth in that whatever wealth is In response, the A the long term. (Sources: generated that it reaches Partnership for National Guyana Chronicle)

Plans are afoot to add a second exploration vessel offshore Guyana to partner the Stena Carron drillship (pictured) currently in use.

(Credit: dpi.gov.gy)

Another oil find in Guyana U.S OIL GIANT EXXONMOBIl Corporation, with whom the government of Guyana has partnered in that country’s oil exploration initiative, announced on June 20, 2018, that it had made its eighth offshore discovery of oil in Guyana waters.

As reported by Guyana newspapers, ExxonMobil said, in its announcement, that it encountered approximately 256 feet (78 meters) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoir at the Longtail-1 well. “The well was safely drilled to 18,057 feet (5,504 meters) depth in 6,365 feet (1,940 meters) of water. The Stena Carron drillship commenced drilling on May 25, 2018,” the U.S oil company explained, while noting that the discovery is within close proximity to the Turbot discovery southeast of the Liza field.

The discovery will add to the 3.2 billion oilequivalent barrels which have already been discovered in seven previous reservoirs: Liza, Payara, Liza Deep, Snoek, Turbot, Ranger and Pacora. It was only in February 2018 that the 7th discovery was made in the Pacora-1 well, offshore Guyana. The Pacora-1 well is located about four miles from the Payara-1 well in the Stabroek Block.

In early January, the U.S. oil company had also discovered oil offshore Guyana at its Ranger -1 well, adding to its previous discoveries since 2015.

The Ranger -1 well encountered approximately 230 feet of high-quality, oil-bearing reservoir, located some 60 miles northwest of its Liza phase one project within the Stabroek Block.

Presently, ExxonMobil is currently making plans to add a second exploration vessel offshore Guyana in addition to the Stena Carron drillship, bringing its total number of drillships on the Stabroek Block to three. The new vessel will operate in parallel to the Stena Carron to explore the block’s numerous high-value prospects.

First oil is expected in early 2020. (Sources: Kaieteur News, Guyana Chronicle)

V Another First for SVG 6. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has become the first Caribbean nation to establish a Consulate General in Northern Ireland.

The full resident diplomatic presence is located in Comber, Co Down, a town with historical links to the West Indies and close to Stormont Parliament.

Vincentian, Dr Christopher Stange has been appointed Consul General, and said the decision is “part of a wider commitment to the diplomatic network, as an extension of our High Commission Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir Louis Straker KCMG in London, to (right) presenting the Consular Commission to Consul further General, Dr Christopher Stange at the Ministry of international Foreign Affairs in Kingstown. relations by our Ministry of Foreign represented in the pro-abolition and Affairs.” anti-slavery movement (boycotting Dr. Stange added, “Northern sugar, etc).

Ireland has been identified as an Comber is also a Fairtrade town, emerging market with an increasing part of the wider Fairtrade council Caribbean community, peace and Borough, which directly benefits stability, coinciding with 2018 Caribbean developing world farmers, marking the 20th anniversary of the which includes many Fairtrade Good Friday Agreement and its accredited churches, schools, higher relationship to Ireland. St. Vincent education institutions and and the Grenadines’ diplomatic government, some linked to St. presence on the ground allows us to Vincent and the Grenadines. work more effectively to further trade, St. Vincent and the Grenadines cultural, sport and international links established diplomatic relations with between countries.” the UK on its Independence Day, 27 David Sterling, Head of the October 1979, and Ireland on 30 April Northern Ireland Civil Service (HOCS) 2015. (Submitted) and Permanent Secretary to The Executive Office (TEO), welcomed the establishment of this new consulate office, congratulated Dr Stange on his appointment as Consul General for St. Vincent and the Grenadines and projected opportunities for co-operation going forward.

Northern Ireland hosted the first international cricket league fixture at Stormont against the West Indies in 2017 and hosted St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Olympic and Commonwealth athletes in the run up to the London Olympics and Commonwealth Games, as well as an athletic delegation during the Special Olympics.

In addition to links with 19th century Comber war hero Major General Rollo Consul General Dr Christopher Stange (left) Gillespie who fought against with Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service the French in the West and Permanent Secretary to The Executive Indies, families in the town Office David Sterling at Stormont Castle. were very strongly

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 7.

People

Kemeisha

needs your help

Right: Kemeisha John and Clinton John during their visit with THE VINCENTIAN.

THIRTY-YEAR-OLD KEMEISHA JOHN has been living without the proper functions of her kidneys for about three years now.

And those years have been challenging - having to deal with the ‘double whammy’ of the effects on body and mind occasioned by the medical condition, and the fees associated with the cost of treatment.

Kemeisha was first diagnosed with kidney failure a few months after the death of her mom, who was diagnosed with and succumbed to breast cancer.

According to brother Clinton John, by the time their mother had passed away, the family had already incurred some debt.

So, when his sisterKemeisha was diagnosed with kidney failure back in 2015, it became even more difficult financially.

She is required to have dialysis three times a week, and each visit comes at a cost of EC$500, or $1,500 per week.

Clinton told THE VINCENTIAN that he is the only one with a permanent job, and obviously has his own responsibilities, making it hard pressed to assist his sister.

Kemeisha is currently unemployed but receives Poor Relief, which is far from enough to meet the cost of her treatment.

He admits that the management at the privately owned and managed Health Solutions Inc., the only outpatient haemodialysis treatment currently available in SVG, has been supportive, and has

allowed for Kemeisha to Vincent and the Grenadines (BoSVG). receive dialysis (DD) treatment despite not having the money readily available to pay for the procedure.

“Even though we are not able to pay, they allow her to come and have the dialysis done,” Clinton John said.

Others have also come to his sister’s assistance, but he made an appeal for more individuals to come forward.

There is also some self help in the mix; from time to time, they organize a barbecue.

“But sometimes that does not go as we would like it to go,” he said.

Nevertheless, they were thankful to those who have been supportive over the years, but have now found themselves in a situation where they require increased outside help.

“My sister is at a point where she is getting sick and needs treatment.

“She is 30 and has a 5year-old. She may not be able to live a normal life like me and you, but I will like her to live as long as possible, maybe even to get the joy of seeing her daughter graduate,” Clinton said.

Individuals are being encouraged to contribute in any way they can. If they are unable to make a monetary contribution, then, Clinton said, they can pledge to assist in one of the planned barbecues, or even offer prayers.

For those wanting to make a financial contribution, they can do so at account number 111020 at the Bank of St

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Good News, Bad News AS HAS BECOME something of a ‘tradition’, at least one week a year, this column is given over to highlighting the GOOD NEWS and the BAD NEWS that we have had to endure, continue to endure and expect to endure in the future.

So here goes!!

GOOD NEWS when we hear of all the money that we have to spend on ‘revitalising the banana industry’.

BAD NEWS when we have spent millions before (since 2001) and we haven’t moved the industry one inch closer to the vital place where it used to be. BAD NEWS if we can’t account for the money spent.

BAD, BAD NEWS and NOT A GOOD SMELL, when the CDC will not come clean and say that even if it wanted to go back to Little Tokyo, it could not afford ($$$) to do so.

BAD NEWS for the Kingstown Town Board and the Minister responsible for Informal Settlements that they couldn’t get a free clean-up this year.

GOOD NEWS when the PM can ‘guarantee’ that there will be no fuel crisis in SVG. BAD NEWS when gas and diesel prices ease up quietly and no mention of the increase is made anywhere in government publications or state-owned and friendly radio stations. BAD NEWS for the government when it could only be heard if/when there is a drop in price.

GOOD NEWS when we hear about hotel development on the mainland and the reopening of a resort here or there.

BAD NEWS when we have heard all this before and because of that we don’t feel encouraged by the GOOD NEWS when Vincentians promises, especially in light of the overseas can assist with worthy fact that investors like David Ames causes back home. can rob us and be allowed to skip BAD NEWS when those worthy the country in the dark of night. causes turn out to be the supply of basic items — like bed linens and GOOD NEWS when we hear that cleaning stuff — for our Hospital Venezuela — not in the best shape and things of that sort. BAD these days — was able to give some NEWS that a government has to relief on the money we owed that encourage this type of patriotism country under ALBA and among Vincentians living abroad.

PetroCaribe.

BAD NEWS when that relief was GOOD NEWS that we can, as a simply replaced by a recent loan country, look to the European from Taiwan. BAD NEWS when Development Fund for assistance certain people think they can pull with our development needs. wool over the people’s eyes about BAD NEWS if we are not how the debt relief improved our exploiting that window to the GDP but didn’t tell us about how fullest extent. the new loan affected the GDP. GOOD NEWS that we can boast GOOD NEWS when we look of having a considerable number of around and see the modern specialists working in our health accommodation that we offer our system. police men and women, and how BAD NEWS when too many of many of them have been trained in them vacate the public chair for this and that. their private chairs.

BAD NEWS when, in this day and age, some police stations don’t GOOD NEWS that we have even have a computer with which those professionals in our health they can communicate with other system who can give ready expert stations. BAD NEWs too when a reports on cases that come before donation of chairs had to be made them. to a police station so that officers BAD, BAD NEWS, when certain there can offer a seat to visitors and reports reach their destinations persons of interest. EVEN WORSE before others, simply because of NEWS that with all the who are implicated in the matters ‘improvements’, there is still a concerned. dismal record as far as solving homicides is concerned.

GOOD NEWS that we have someone we can complain to — to GOOD NEWS when in the best whom we can report all the interest of civility and calm, that shortcomings in government the Carnival Development services and among civil servants.

Corporation (CDC) can agree with BAD NEWS when that someone the masmen to take the parade of only wants to take people as a the bands back to Victoria Park. pappy show.

Carnival and Politics “I love My Country” AS USUAL, Son Mitchell has been blamed for supposedly messing with Carnival by calling elections on June 15th last, a full three weeks before the climax of the festivities.

The merry-makers of carnival, however, hardly need excuses for their late starts and general bungling which annually they muddle through to a successful conclusion, to their credit.

Such a delightful conclusion among the three components of the festival- mas, pan and calypso- now forms part of a ritual that is captured and glossed over in the saying that “all of that is mas”.

In fact, it was good to get politics out of the way before we could settle down to a relaxed celebration. Politics, though sharing many of the attributes of carnival, can really be serious business.

During the last elections, we experienced a lot of theatre. On display were the accustomed somersaulters, gymnasts and trapeze artists; there were one or two jumbie bands, posing as Parties that failed to materialize; and many of the players masked their evil intentions behind attractive visages, professionally made up.

Always, there were the glitz and gloss of TV appearances that were part and parcel of a programme of high powered salesmanship and high-tech electioneering.

Above all, there were the Party-shirt bands to further market the product and inspire confidence, but they often instilled a sense of fear with a promise of terror.

That is why the hope is that neither the Red Shirts (ULP) nor the Green Shirt (NDP) invaded the streets in strength during carnival in pretence of revelry that is really intense rivalry. The Festival must never be used for the furtherance of partisanship by other means. Carnival and Politics don’t mix.

In 1984, Cato announced General Elections just before the final two days of the festival. It triggered off a swing in favour of the NDP which secured an election anthem in Becket’s road march “Horn Foh Dem”, fitting in so well with NDP’s John Horne, then a new and exciting political prospect.

This time around, those calypsonians who play politics, have been caught with their pants down, so to speak. Navel String’s “Son bunning we” and especially Man CP’s “Jessie Gamble” were apparently intended to fuel a ULP campaign that was to follow carnival, not predate it.

But “Jesse Gamble” will do well in any event, owing to the psychology of our people and the love-hate relationship with their “Representers”. They worship politicians who are then turned into scapegoats and whipping boys for national problems.

As Field Marshall once pointed out: we do

have “short memories”.

Significantly, it took a Calypsonian to have immortalized in verse, the events of 1972 when a virtual election tie had stalemated the country which some politicians wanted to recall in 1998. ‘Leader’ had noted that it was “first time” two political parties ran “none didn’t win!” NDP won in 1998, a miss being as good as a mile!

Sheller is still around these days. Fans seem to forget that it was during a Labour regime that Sheller sang his powerful critique describing St. Vincent as “Foreigners’ Paradise”.

No doubt, De Man Age who won the crown twenty years ago, and returned from exile last year to cop the runner-up position, still remembers 1977 when his two classic calypsos “Who Cares” and “This Society Needs a Spectacle” were banned from airplay by a hyper-sensitive Labour Party Government.

Mitchell, of course, has kept his promise of not banning calypsos. Toiler’s “Mr Nancy”, Lexi’s “Ease UP Fisherman” and Freedom Fighter’s “Mitchellism” all “Calypsonian Can Sing” with impunity. “Jessie Gamble” wound thrill audiences in the same way, without official fuss or bother.

Just like freedom bordering on license that has been allowed Radio and Press. The We FM station in particular battered the NDP good and proper, leading the way to a misrepresentation of local events by overseas Vincentians.

For my part, I hail the current calypsos of Ipa who once gave us “Put your country, before your party”. Now the man from Slum advises that notwithstanding all problems and difficulties confronting us, in comparable terms we are not so badly off after all.

So, “I love my country”, do you?

For carnival I playing dead. Friends have phoned to find out if I was the Kenneth John who reportedly died by drowning in St. Lucia. I am not a “ghost-writer”.

Fortunately, I am alive and well though not kicking and jamming for the carnival.

I shall continue to observe and write, which is what I do best, along with loving my country.

Addendum: My article “This Week” was saved by resort to an old carnival impression which will reappear next year, DV, in a collection of my writings at the present, one of which I hope to be around if not, crapaud smoke my pipe!

This week, I had to put off for next the powerful presentation of a true and blessed national hero in Bishop Edmund John whose body was interred at a literally majestic mountainside at Belmont.

I had to let the din and revelry of Carnival subside, before serving you a dish of manna from above.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 9.

Letters

A criminal zone I BELIEVE that we all have a measure of love for our country, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Many of us would go to the extent of defending this country from external forces. Moreover, there are those of us who resolve to be nation-builders and in our quest, are pursuing nation-building goals.

In all of this, however, we need to face the naked reality that St. Vincent and the Grenadines, hitherto unknown for a high crime rate four decades ago, has degenerated into a criminal zone.

We are no longer safe again; the criminals are invading our space and violating our freedom in our homes and outside of our homes.

We are their quarry.

The recent gruesome murder of Ms. Antonia Rose, who came home from the United States to pay her last respect to her late mother, exemplifies St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a veritable criminal zone. That brutal murder which took place at her brother’s home in Queen’s Drive, should be unanimously condemned by all law-abiding citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Should this criminal trend continue unabated, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will fade as a tourist destination. All relevant stakeholders need to come on board, devise news ways, novel

The good old days I WILL BE the first to admit that time is not static; that change is the only constant.

In that light, it would be remiss of me to even think that time would stand still; that the music I enjoyed in my youth would be the music that my grandchildren enjoy today.

But you will forgive me if I say that I long, especially at this time of the year — the carnival season or what some used to call the ‘calypso season’, for the good old

days.

I long to turn on my radio and hear a calypso that is not only a biting commentary on some national concern, but is entertaining with its craft.

I long for the days when I could turn on my radio and hear a spicy calypso to which I involuntarily begin to tap my toes.

I long for the good old days when there was healthy competition among our

strategies and sensible approaches to combat crime.

There are Vincentians abroad who still have that image of a peaceful St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They haven’t come to grips with the reality that our country, over the last fifteen years, has been transformed into a criminal zone. I urge my compatriots in the diaspora not to come back to St. Vincent with any high expectations of a peaceful, quiet and blessed country. Let us call a spade a spade. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is now a criminal zone.

Patmos Richards

calypsonians and not this seemingly unending, unnecessary war among those we call soca artistes, who seem to be the preferred artistes in today’s Vincy Mas. Yea, forgive me, but I long for the days of entertaining calypso and not this barrage of lengthy epistles that bore me to death.

The way things are going, it wouldn’t be too long before we’ll need hearing aids in order to find a good calypso.

Forgive me.

Ole Timer

How the Bible speaks to accountability ACCOUNTABILITY is easy to talk about, but difficult to practise. No one likes feeling judged or controlled by others.

In modern society especially, it is easy to believe that how one person chooses to live, is nobody else’s business; but the scripture upholds the righteous principles of accountability.

Accountability applies

to both actions and attitudes. The modern world is concerned with results, not methods, even if those methods cause harm to others.

But God looks at each step along a journey, not just a final destination, and He is concerned not only with our decisions, but also the motivation behind them. The Lord doesn’t see as man sees;

interests at heart. Thus, we must end our divisions, join together and work together in church, government, etc.

Accountability requires submission. We man looks at the rebel against God. outward appearance, but Accountability allows the Lord looks at the others to enter into that heart. struggle with us.

That Accountability means we must at times depends on trust, defer to the judgement or allowing others to hold counsel of others, when us accountable. It requires us to trust their they can trust us with truth. With our judgement and believe that they are committed involvement in Christ, we have to be to the same truths and values. We want to know accountable to Him, and others who are over us in that they have our best the Lord. If we don’t submit to each other, likely we will be creating problems for ourselves.

Notes: Government will be held accountable for the time spent in office, and all other employers or employees who are part of parliament. All human beings will give an account for their time spent on earth. Truth must not be compromised for the sake of unity, because the truth will set all men free.

Bishop Ezekiel Creese Faith Word Ministry

Lifting up Mia MR. EDITOR, it might seem a bit late but never late than never, to expend congratulations to Mia Mottley for leading her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) to victory in the recent general election in Barbados. In the process, she became that country’s first female prime minister.

Miss Mottley has had to endure attack after attack on her person, and has had to withstand a concerted effort by former BLP leader and Prime Minister Owen Arthur, first to unseat her as leader and then to make it uncomfortable for her to lead when he was refused by the Barbados people. She has shown Mr. Arthur and all his colleagues across the Caribbean, including our own Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonslaves, that she has as much b…ls as they have, and that she can face up to all they might think they have to throw at her.

Mia is not a fool; she is fully educated and well-schooled. And, she is no ‘just come’ to government. I am certain that she will apply a level head to * Which leading her government’s government has decisions, especially as the distinction of she confronts the moving a disgraced challenge of taking her permanent secretary country out of the up the ladder to economic hole in which being deputy CEO of the Democratic Labour a state investment Party and Prime agency, thence even Minister Stuart had put higher up the ladder it. to being an Furthermore, I expect Ambassador? And that she would stand up who is that lucky to those prime ministers person? in the region who are * How many persons prone to throwing have to become around their weight and hearing impaired trying their best to have before the things their way or no authorities take way at all. those sound systems I wish her all the best, out of the public and hope that women transports? across the Caribbean * How can would give her the commuters know support that she needs that the minivan in this still male-infested they are travelling pool of Caribbean in, is driven by politics. someone who has a valid driver’s S. Shallow (Mrs) licence?

Kingstown * Why is government not correcting the historical wrong that denies some workers a pension?

Many of them are home scrunting after giving years of yeoman service. * Who gets a ‘pound of flesh’ before many females are propelled to high positions in this nation (with the full knowledge of their husbands)?

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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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The ULP, moving the 2018 work plan into top gear

Introduction VINCENTIANS will have noticed that the ULP administration has ramped up its socio-economic development workload, with the official opening of several government projects, and the announcement of plans for some new enterprises. All this is happening at a time when the world economy is still affecting the countries in the Caribbean, including St.Vincent and the Grenadines, in a negative way.

And so the ULP administration has had to ramp up its strategies to deal with the effects of a hostile external economic environment. The success of this can be seen in the fact that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is perhaps one of the few countries in the Caribbean, who has not sought the services of the International Monetary Fund, the IMF. Countries who encounter economic challenges, seek the services of the IMF, to get out of their financial difficulties. The country of Barbados is a case in point.

The new Barbados government has had to introduce a number of tax measures aimed at raising much needed revenue. Before that, the Barbados government was forced to reduce the size of the public service, and workers were sent home. It is safe to say that things don’t look so good for the average worker in Barbados.

Here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the fiscal policies and leadership provided by the ULP administration have resulted in the country keeping an even keel during the current economic crisis and turbulent times. And now the ULP is ramping up its activities, to bring more economic benefits to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Projects

Leeward area will love the ULP for this!!

Diagnostic centre Next week, the ULP administration will officially open the diagnostic centre in Georgetown. This is a new era in the provision of health care in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A range of new services will now be available to the citizens of this country, especially those living in the north and central areas.

Already the NDP has started a destructive campaign against the new hospital, claiming that it is located in an area that will be affected by the La Soufriere volcano. Well, if we follow this doctrine, all the people in North Leeward and North Windward, as well as North Central Windward, would move their residency towards the south of the island. What foolishness!!

The opening ceremony will attract addresses from the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the driving force behind the project, and the Minister of Health, Luke Browne. The diagnostic centre opens up opportunity for our nurses and doctors to practise new skills. Once operational, the centre will ease the pressure on the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. For example, residents north of the village of Biabou, can go to Georgetown for medical services, rather than the MCMH. Essential medical services such as dialysis, which is very important for kidney patients, will be offered at the diagnostic centre.

Conclusion The Central Leeward corridor is set to benefit from some serious construction work in the tourism sector, as the PACE group out of Canada, intensifies its activities to construct the Black Sands Resort, a complex with 40 villas, and a two hundred room hotel, in the Mt. Wynne Peters-Hope area. Construction work is well on the way, and a number of persons from the constituencies of Central Leeward, South Leeward, and North Leeward, are being employed.

When Black Sands is completed, it will employ over 300 persons in the hospitality sector. Additionally, specialists like masons, carpenters, electricians and plumbers, will be in demand, and persons with these skills will find jobs with the resort. Farmers too will find Black Sand as a market for their produce, especially vegetables and fresh fruit.

Now the government has announced that it has been given approval for a loan of US$50 million from the government of the Republic of China on Taiwan, for the construction of a hotel in the Mt. Wynne area. If everything goes to plan, the government will break ground towards the end of 2018, for the construction of a 100 room hotel, which will employ some 200 persons.

In reality, some EC$310 million dollars will be spent on construction in the Central Leeward area, and there will be a lot of activity, and jobs for people. Voters in the Central

This week, the ULP administration improved the capacity of the services of the Coast Guard, through the provision of a third “safe-boat”, compliments the government of the United States. The men and women of the Coast Guard have been doing a tremendous job, securing our coastline, and offering rescue and medical evacuation services to the people of the Grenadines. The stories behind these rescue missions are still to be told.

This week also, the ULP government official opened a Green House Park in the Montreal area, as part of a drive to supply affordable and wholesome fresh fruit and vegetables regularly, to domestic, regional and international markets.

The facility was funded by the European Union as part of the BAM initiative, at a cost of 1.5 million Euros.

Sometime in the month of July, the ULP administration will sign an agreement with the Rain Forest Seafood company of Jamaica, with respect to a US$3.5 million dollar investment in the fisheries sector.

This is exciting news for our fisherfolk, and jobs and revenue are in store.

Soon the government will be announcing more concrete plans for projects like the new city at Arnos Vale, the acute referral centre, the geothermal project, and the expansion to Port Kingstown.

The ULP killed bananas AT THE RECENT convention of the New Democratic Party (NDP) which was held in Greiggs, Dr. Godwin Friday made the following statement. “In relation to agriculture, in the year 2000, just before the Unity Labour Party (ULP) came to power, the banana industry was operated and managed by Vincentian farmers, you know that and banana exports contributed $28 million to our GDP. Since taking over government, the ULP government essentially took over the management of the banana industry from the farmers; the contribution of bananas to the economy declined after that, from $28 million to less than $1 million, and probably even less as we speak. In other words, the banana industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is dead!”

Since that statement was made; the Prime Minister, the Minister of Agriculture and their propagandists have gone wild trying to defend their government’s ill advised policies of the banana industry. We are now hearing the government admitting that there is a role for bananas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Why is the sudden change of rhetoric? Is it that the NDP’s plan for banana and agriculture has begun to resonate with the farmers? We are to be reminded that it is the same ULP that promised during the 2015 general elections campaign that it would have replanted two thousand (2000) acres of bananas in its first year, had it won the elections. When the question was asked in parliament about the replanting of bananas; we were told that replanting was to have done was over a five year period.

Although there were some challenges on the European market for the banana farmers, quick intervention by the then NDP administration and the other governments of the Windward Islands to negotiate with the supermarkets and other stakeholders in Europe, gave farmers hope to continue to produce. They adopted changes and were doing well until the ULP gained power.

Undoubtedly, the ULP administration is responsible for the current state of the banana industry.

When the ULP won the general elections in 2001, it immediately began to dismantle the banana industry. Although during the general elections campaign, we were told that they had a plan for bananas. The first step that was taken by the government was to take control of the Banana Growers Association, an association which the farmers managed for over fifty years. As if that was not enough punishment by a vindictive ULP regime to the poor and hard working farmers, they then removed the credit system which was made available to farmers. That made it extremely difficult for them to obtain fertilizer and other inputs so as to produce the desired quality fruits for export. These ill-advised policies by the government had a negative effect on the industry.

Then the ULP government with spite and vengeance started to demolish what the NDP had accomplished. The former NDP administration had the foresight and vision to introduce the irrigation system on a number of farms including Rabacca, Sans Souci and Colonaire. Instead, the government built on what they met, the ULP

regime destroyed it. And we all know the importance of irrigation during the dry season. Moreover, the ULP regime allowed the Back Sigatoka to destroy the banana industry because they did not spray the bananas from the disease. Presently, we are not exporting any bananas to the European market, thanks to the ULP administration. From an industry which once earned over $120 million in 1992, was reduced to a meagre $1.5 million in 2012.

What is even more disheartening, since the ULP got power in this country, not one mile of feeder road was constructed or repaired. As a matter of fact, since hurricane Tomas, a number of these roads remain impassable, thus making it impossible for farmers to access their farms. The lack of proper feeder roads is one of the reasons given why some farmers have abandoned their farms.

Therefore, the actions of this government have forced hundreds of farmers out of the banana industry and the government willingly placed them on Public Assistance. The ULP administration has removed the farmers’ independence and has made most of them dependent on the government. Hundreds of banana farmers are now employed as security officers and are doing menial jobs while the others remain unemployed.

Where is the love for the farmers? Mr. Caesar, do you care about the survival of the farmers and the banana industry?

It did not have to be that way.

Look at St. Lucia, where the management of the banana industry remained in the hands of farmers and the industry is growing and doing well. This shows that our banana industry, which was one of the largest productive sectors in this country, was killed by the incompetence, mismanagement and spite of the ULP government.

It must be noted that while the NDP focuses on the production of bananas, the overall goal of the NDP National Agriculture Policy is to optimise and maximise our capacity to provide for our food needs. This will be done through increasing production of a range of crops and livestock species as well as fish and related byproducts, thus ensuring a sustainable food security for all.

Furthermore, the mission of the NDP agricultural programme is to arrest the deteriorating situation and revitalize the agricultural sector to make it more efficient, technologically prepared and internationally competitive, so that the Sector can regain its place of prominence as a major contributor to the national economy and guarantee the food and nutrition security of our people, and provide employment, income and sustainable livelihood while preserving the national environment.

The NDP offers hope to our farmers and will develop the agricultural sector. We recognize the central role of agricultural to the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its considerable contribution to the livelihood of Vincentians. The NDP will make St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all of us.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 11.

Views

Profiles and Prejudices

Calypso Art and Culture

“Prejudices, it is well known, are most difficult to eradicate from the heart whose soil has never been loosened or fertilised by education: they grow there, firm as weeds among stones.” ? Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

‘CULTURE IS A WEAPON in the struggle for liberation.’

Amilchar Cabral, African revolutionary.

‘I shall not attempt further to define the kinds of material I understand to be hard-core pornography, and perhaps I could never succeed in intelligibly doing so. But I know it when I see it…’ Potter Steward, US Supreme Court Justice.

ULP general secretary, Julian Francis is right. Mind your funky business is smut and should be given as little airtime as possible. Most people will disagree with this assessment, but this only shows how degenerate our society has become. Unfortunately, Julian Francis is the wrong general for this war. Maybe, no politician is fit for hire, because none are universally perceived as paragons of virtue. Julian’s comments might have given real life to Fimba’s Funky Business: ‘Ah hear you sister breed Fo ah married man How you kno dat Comess man…

Long-time me nah see you.

How yo look good so What yo eat fo dinner?

Chicken back Mind yo funky business.

Nice beat, catchy, lively, and bouncy.

Road March material in the same way that empty songs like. ‘Take me through Victoria Park’ and ‘Ah kill ah snake’ captured the imagination of revellers.

But nothing more. Nothing redeeming.

Nothing worthy of praise or honourable mention.

Sadly though some have likened ‘Funky Business’ to Tajoe’s ‘For King Calypso.’ Only a cultural dwarf or the uninitiated will utter such nonsense.

‘For King Calypso’ is in the best tradition of calypso craft. Sadly, double entendre (a figure of speech or a particular way of wording that is devised to be understood to have a double meaning. Typically, one of the meanings is obvious, given the context, whereas the other may require more thought. The innuendo may convey a message that would be socially awkward, sexually suggestive, or offensive to state directly) is a dying art in calypso. Now see if Fimba comes close to Tajoe: My calypso fans and my critics, say over the years that I’ve let them down They claimed they expected better, and yearned to hear a king song.

They think writing Kaiso is easy, we make it look so from year to year It’s not easy as writing Soca, I just want my fans to be clear.

Every year, I pen a calypso and come to the tent to sing All my fans and critics they asking if am sure that an going win You can see, them coming in numbers, every night they come to the show They all come with but one agenda to see who can write for King Calypso

THE WORD “PREJUDICE” is not necessarily a negative or bad word. In its simplest description it is a prejudgement based on experiences. That being said, we all have experiences and, as a result of these, make prejudgements. In other words, we all have prejudices. By extension, we may profile persons (categorise them) based on skin colour, nationality, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, sexual preferences, professions, and so on. Where profiling and prejudices become dangerous and destructive, is when they are allowed to encourage decisions and/or reactions in the absence of all of the necessary facts; where we lose objectivity and allow our biases to reign unhindered.

The topic for today’s essay surfaced after I had gone through the security check point at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. After I passed through the metal detector, the male security officer instructed me to stand with my feet apart and my arms outstretched while he does a body search. After the “close pat down”, he instructed me to collect my scanned hand luggage that lay on the conveyor belt two feet from where the body search was conducted. I then observed that the three passengers who were immediately behind me were allowed to pass through the metal detector but had not been subjected to the body search. I suspected that these were visitors to our blessed land. They were of a different skin pigmentation. I could not help but wonder whether this assumed “random body check” was not random at all (but selective). I pondered whether the search was required for locals and not for tourists. Regardless of the reasoning, it is imperative that such actions be considered fair and just. Having noticed the disparity in the behaviours, I then sought the security officer, in an effort to determine why I appeared to have been profiled in this manner. However, by this time he had left his post.

Several months earlier, Stephen Joachim, Chief Financial Officer at Mustique Company Limited, had reported a similar experience at the Argyle International Airport. He was understandably upset and adamant that he should not have been treated in the manner described. While we understand and appreciate that the security officers have their work to do, and are required to guarantee the safety of passengers, it is reasonable to suggest that locals should not be treated differently to their foreign travel companions. The procedures must be seen to be fair and transparent. The officers must be trained and reminded to avoid profiling individuals based on skin colour, nationality, and any such variable. While we expect individuals who perform the duties of security officers to develop their skills in discernment, they must be cautioned in relation to not being driven/manipulated by their prejudices. They must not assume that locals will affix wads of money or

drugs to their undergarments, and that tourists would not (assuming that this is the reason for the body search).

It is quite possible that readers from other Caribbean countries have observed similar behaviours in their respective countries. Such behaviours are not unique to emerging economies and developing countries like ours.

Cable television programmes and the Internet now provide regular episodes of unfair and inhumane treatment of individuals in developed countries.

North America and Europe are now identified as areas where colour prejudice and ethnic profiling appear to be rampant. Many of the perpetrators of callous treatment of the disadvantaged, appear to be those who have sworn to uphold the law and to ensure justice for all. It is sad and disheartening when we view the “upholders of the law” actually breaking the law. These acts are so very often driven by deep-seated prejudices and profiling.

During the late 1980s, I was required to supervise two Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV). One grew up in Rhode Island, while the other was from Southern Georgia. The PCV who was socialised in Rhode Island, was very pleasant and always ready and willing to follow directions and to share insights about how we could meet client/customer needs. The other PCV, always appeared to be resisting/rejecting the guidance provided. He seemed to have had difficulty accounting for his time and/or activities. As destiny would have it, I subsequently met his wife (who was also a PCV) who volunteered some most useful information. She explained that he grew up in a home where he was “programmed” to consider himself (a Caucasian) as superior to all blacks.

He was socialised to think of his pigmentation as giving him power and authority over those who were “less fortunate” to have been born with dark skin pigmentation. How sad!

How unfortunate! None of us should ever be so indoctrinated to believe that our skin colour, or religion, or whatever, makes us superior to others. Martin Luther King Jr. (19291968) said it so well when, in his “I have a dream” speech on 28th August, 1963, he declared: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of the character. …” We long for that day when we would so manage our prejudices and profiling, that we do not let skin colour be the deciding factor in how we approach or respond to individuals that we come into contact with. Sometimes it appears as though we do have a long way to go. But maybe, just maybe, the discourse generated by this essay will encourage us to take the necessary incremental steps to avoid the negative impact of profiling and prejudices.

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

Message is important, if you want to win the Calypso King Humour and satire, social commentary and picong Have cause many writers to actually win the crown But many Kaisonians, their writing does dearly show.

They don’t possess the skills, to write for the calypso.

Many of our writers, have clearly master the craft Written King Calypso, and won the Kaiso monarch Am hoping that one day, every one could pen a King Song, A chance to taste glory, and wear the calypso crown I hope this calypso doesn’t cause no controversy.

For all Kaiso writers, who doesn’t fit this category?

I will tell you now, and I want the records to show That we have great writers, who can write for King Calypso Bucket and CP, them men could write for King Calypso Ipa and Mercy they can write for King Calypso Poser and Sulle them men could write for King Calypso Man Age carn’t forget he, he could write for King Calypso Lord Hawke and Sheller, pen some great, great compositions Were some of the greatest, King writers here in the land.

That’s crafty and classy. And it’s clear for everyone to see Tajoe is an outstanding for king calypsonian. Sulle is a master Craftsman and he is in the hunt yet again. In ‘Rape yoself’, he has a message for both men and women.

Abijah, the visionary, is solid as a rock with another biting calypso. It’s a foolish man who counts him out.

If we had our way, Sherikah would have been big yard bound. She was robbed. Her song, Carnival, is really carnival and she had poise and presence on stage. Listen to her: Ah see ah steel band, ah see ah mas man Yo know ah tink ah hear a calypsonian Ah see ah costume, ah hear a sweet tune Dey does start the jamming this time in June

Me foot dem moving, me body shaking Bum bum rolling, people drinking Little children dancing, big people whining Steelpan beating, calypso singing, mas man building Because…

Is carnival, bacchanal, is carnival Ah go move and groove and behave rude cuz Is carnival, bacchanal, is carnival Azara and Hero never write for King Ah go whine and grind and have ah Calypso good time.

Lexi and Observer never write for We also liked Royal Gem Lavia. She King Calypso was strong like a wall. The young Kaiso Every year they competing, but the lad Wynner is on his way to becoming a record is there to show real slave to calypso. And then there That some calypsonians has never was Siah Robinson who disliked the fact write for King Calypso that young girls loved minivan: Ah hearing it in their conversations, Not all calypsonians can write for the What's wrong with this generation? monarchy They so young and looking for You have to have tempo, strong lyrics actions, and melody They have no direction.

Good pitch and structure, you must know how to ride the rhythm When the horns them blow, you But not all calypsonian, could write should see their actions, much less to come sing They making a big mistake, Your facial expression and body causing so much stress and pain, language come in to play They don't know is money going Stage craft is important, to perform down the drain. for the fans out dey But some calypsonians, have been Tonight is the night. Come to the struggling from since day one park for calypso at its best. Don’t ask And over the years they have yet to me to choose the final 11. I may hurt pen a King Song. some feelings.

Your skill as a writer, take a lot more Send comments, criticisms & than just rhyming suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

High corporation tax is killing the economy CORPORATION TAX in SVG is way too high and it is killing the economy. The high corporation tax is making it very hard for SVG businesses to grow and prosper. If businesses can’t grow, then the economy cannot grow, and this means that it’s very difficult for the private sector to create new jobs.

Small businesses are the beating heart of vibrant economies, but small businesses in SVG bludgeoned by high corporation tax, find it very hard to survive, let alone grow. Also, the high corporation tax in SVG puts SVG’s businesses at a disadvantage with other businesses in the same sector in other countries with lower corporation tax.

SVG businesses cannot really compete in the global market under the ULP regime’s brutal policy of high corporation tax.

The Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, who has a BSc (Hons) from Oxford Brookes University, England in Accounting and Finance and Economics, strongly believes that SVG urgently needs a substantial cut in corporation tax to help SVG businesses to grow and be competitive in the global market.

The table shows the significant difference in the management of a country’s economy between Singapore and SVG, and the significant difference in results.

dramatically from 42.4% to 26.3%.

High taxes reduce the payoff to entrepreneurship, investment and work effort. If taxation is too heavy, these disincentives will weaken a nation’s economy. This is what’s happening in SVG right now.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, we cannot hold on to the present ULP regime high tax as it is counterproductive to the long-term economic development of SVG. High Taxes in SVG are major contributors to the high levels of poverty, hunger, crime and unemployment in SVG, all of which are breaking up our society.

SVG must cut corporation tax by 12.5% and abolish the 16% VAT. This will help SVG’s businesses to grow and make them competitive in the global market. Financially, this can be offset by a windfall tax of EC$1.5 billion on Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan.

One of Canada’s most important positive policy reforms has been on corporate taxes. Federal and provincial governments realised the economically damaging effect of high corporate taxes, and lowered rates to make the business tax regime more competitive.

Singapore operates a ‘low tax’ As a result, from 2000 to 2015, SVG Green Party regime — its corporation tax is 15.5% Canada’s combined federal-provincial www.svggreenparty.org lower than that in SVG. Consequently, corporate income tax rate fell https://twitter.com/svggreenparty it has much higher economic growth than SVG and very low unemployment. Since 2001, SVG’s unqualified Ministers of Finance have operated a very ‘high tax’ regime, and this is so foolish in this day and age. that the church is now blind and so is THE EVIDENCE before us seems to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal not aware of the pains of the people. recommends that the economic policies point clearly, that the first two decades of the third millennium will Yet, on two prominent buildings in in SVG should be brought more in line represent for this nation, crippling our capital Kingstown, the large clocks with the economic policies of have for years been very unreliable, Singapore. This is essential for SVG to defeat. The diminishing hope, authored by the very persons who had and this is at the seat of government. create significant economic growth, pledged to do so much for the people in But maybe that is understandable create thousands of new jobs and 2001, has forced Vincentians and their because of the paucity of the quality of reduce unemployment. friends to conclude, that the last two management, so clearly obvious in the decades of the second millennium, way that our administrators have been were in comparison, a period of going about the business of the people. prosperity and positive spirit among Those clocks tell us accurately “the us. times we are in”, and now the people So many things point to lack of can put no faith in the order, discipline, and good pronouncements of their management, the loud and boisterous administrator. music, the indiscriminate parking on The most recent of those exhibitions bridges seemingly now allowed by the of hollow promises, is that by the new police; the grass growing in the drains Minister of Finance, that Agriculture in Kingstown making the sweeping of and Fishing were going to be pillars of the drains difficult. the economy in 2018. We will soon be It may well be found, that we have at the end of the first half of the year, and as yet we have seen no serious accessed more funding than before, preparation towards realizing those but because of the poor management, there have been many cases where the objectives.

What we seem to be seeing, is a advertised objectives were not met, scrambling to impress the EU that e.g. the Cross-Country Road, and the their funds have been properly spent Owia Fishing Complex. One of the in Montreal (Richland Park). saddest cases of this ‘wutless’ In the meantime, the mismanagement, was exposed when XXX million dollars which represented pronouncement by Saboto Caesar, the Minister of Agriculture, that a project a grant to us from the EU and which targeting the control of Black would have made a significant Sigatoka, which had between 2009 and contribution to the fortifying of our agriculture, had to be returned to the 2011 crippled the Banana Industry, only serves to remind us of the EU, because they were not satisfied ineptitude of his ministry. There is no with our management. All those doubt that Mr. Caesar has squandered persons who had played any role in the loss of that opportunity, should be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate that he has the maturity reminded of their dis-service to the country. Had those funds from the EU and is sensitively disposed to creating for the farming communities, a way of been honourably handled, we could well have saved the banana industry, hope out of their economic stagnation.

Many farmers are haunted by the and the funds we are now going to failure of Mr. Caesar and his Ministry receive from Taiwan, could have been of Agriculture regarding that 100 Days used in our agro-processing efforts, Plan in which 250 acres of new where it would have been more bananas were to have been planted. measurably impactful.

The execution period was to have been We are indeed a defeated people; April 26th to July 31st 2016. Nothing the distinguished St. George’s was done! How could Mr. Caesar hope Cathedral is now in a state of to impress the farmers with any new disrepair, and the blank area of the church tower from which a face of the pronouncements? clock was visible from east, west, north, and south seems to be implying, LeRoy Providence

Symbols of our defeat

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 13.

News

ÂToo many chair warmers at schoolÊ

PRINCIPAL OF THE ST. MARTIN’S Wendell Edwards, Secondary School - Wendell Edwards Principal of St. has declared that there are too many Martin’s children warming the chairs at school Secondary and creating problems for other School, students and teachers. addressed the According to the principal, the challenge of academic year, as usual, was quite a having to deal challenging one. “The main problem with students area was student behavior, who do not make particularly in the mid forms. There effective use of are far too many students in our the opportunity of school and in our educational receiving a system who visit the schools to secondary warm the chairs, and to create education. problems for other students and teachers. It is also established that the Assumption. in most of these cases, parenting is And even as he recognized the weak or non- existent,” said Edwards. challenges this scenario presented, he He made the pronouncement while suggested that educators and other delivering the Principal’s Report stakeholders, need to find firm and during the School’s 2017/18 innovative ways to combat these Graduation Ceremony held on Tuesday challenges.

19th June, at the R.C. Cathedral of Inspite of the challenges there were

Parents, guardians and well-wishers gave the principal an attentive ear. many achievements and memorable moments during the year, including achieving a 75% pass rate in most subject areas of the 2017 CSEC examinations.

“We performed well in Sports, particularly in the areas of football and athletics, where we received second places in this year’s secondary schools’ competitions. We were quite commendable in this year’s Young Leader’s project, and received the Judges Award,” Edwards outlined.

And having participated in this year’s National Science Competition for Secondary Schools, Edwards

projected that the school would receive no less than six prizes when the closing ceremony is held on June 29.

“Our Music programme continues to advance at a rapid rate,” Edwards declared, “with two of our students, Christopher Bacchus and Damien Noel (Da Sousa) in the finals of this year’s Junior Calypso competition. You have to be at Victoria Park to hear Damien singing for the last time at the Secondary level. Do you remember him last year singing ‘The man with the plan’ and the uproar in the Park when he placed second? Many believed that he deserved the first place.”

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

BanfieldÊs Service Station is no drive-thru THE REFURBISHED BANFIELD’S/SOL Service Station situated on Grenville Street, Kingstown, a location from which it has been operating for well over four decades, was officially reopened last Friday.

A number of persons, including Proprietor/Manager Robert Banfield, General Manager of SOL Steve Francis and Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown St. Clair Leacock, addressed a small gathering of invited guests.

In his address, Francis thanked the police for assisting with the traffic plan for the area.

In the past, motorists making their way into the Paul’s Avenue area would cut through the service station’s compound.

While some measures (structural) have been taken to curtail this practice, Francis, not leaving it to chance, appealed to motorists to desist from this practice, and reminded the public that flammable

products were sold at the service station.

“It is not a drive thru.. it is not a pathway to another location,” he said.

(DD)

Right: Robert Banfield (left) and Steve Francis cut the ‘ribbon’ to officially declare the refurbished Banfield’s Service Station open.

Motorists have been discouraged from driving through the Banfield’s Service Station when making their way to Paul’s Avenue, General Manager of SOL Eastern Caribbean Ltd. emphasized.

SOL: Out of the kerosene business SOL EC LTD., one of the two suppliers of petroleum products here, does not intend to get back into the sale of kerosene any time soon.

General Manager of SOL EC Ltd., Steve Francis said at the official opening of Banfield’s Service Station in Kingstown last week Friday, that kerosene was imported to be used primarily in the aviation industry when SOL and Shell before it, were the sole providers of aircraft fuel at the E.T Joshua Airport. A small portion (of the kerosene imported) was set aside for domestic purposes.

However, according to Francis, the returns from the sales of kerosene for domestic use have been slow and SOL, between 2005 and February 2017, had had to subsidize its cost.

Presently, SOL does not supply fuel at the international airport at Argyle, Francis said, therefore the source of funding to subsidize kerosene has disappeared.

“We therefore had no choice but to discontinue the sale of kerosene, as we could no longer continue to accept that social responsibility, since there were no means to subsidize it,” SOL’s local GM said.

Diesel Francis also used the opportunity of last Friday’s opening to address the issue as it related to diesel.

He said that he was grateful to the government for waiving the import duty on low and ultra-low sulfur diesel since SOL was forced to import it from extra-regional sources because since Petrotrin, the Petroleum company of Trinidad and Tobago, did, and even in the face of a waiver of duties, Francis called for a reduction in the price of low and ultra-low sulfur diesel at the pumps, in order to encourage greater consumption.

“I believe the time has come to remove high sulfur diesel from service

General Manager of SOL EC Ltd., Steve Francis explained why users of kerosene may have to do without the product for some time to come. stations, and replace it with low or ultra-low diesel. We are the only country in the SOL group that is still selling high sulfur diesel,” Francis said.

In fact, the developed world was now looking to a world of no sulfur diesel and even the banning of diesel altogether.

“So, we will be engaging all stakeholders — retailers, government, car dealers and environment organizations to work with us towards making that particular change,” Francis said.

(DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 15.

Education

CWPPS holds 2nd Fathers Conference

Dr. Reynold Murray delivered the feature address at this year’s CWPPS’s Fathers Conference.

by KENVILLE HORNE THE CW PRESCOD PRIMARY School (CWPPS) hosted its Second Annual Fathers Conference at Frenches House, Kingstown, on Thursday 14th June, under the theme: ‘Bridging the Gap – Fathers as Mentors’.

Patsy-Ann Garraway, Guidance Counsel Officer at the School, told the gathering of fathers that counsellors at the school encounter many students who are suffering from emotional abuse, neglect, anger problem, low achievement, low self-

esteem and lack of discipline.

One of the common denominators across the spectrum of these problems is the absence of fathers or father figures in the lives of the children affected.

“It is with a view to make a difference and impact the next generation positively, that the vision to bring the fathers of CWP Primary School together was conceived and was birthed,” declared Garraway, who added that this translated into the Fathers Conference.

Following last year’s conference, the organizers set up a fathers’ support group that helped planning fathers’ activities, e.g.

Dad Day sessions at the school, in the hope of continuing the linkage between school and home.

Principal of the school - Suzette Abbott-King addressed the fathers directly, saying, “Fathers, you are central to the emotional wellbeing of your children, you are capable caretakers and disciplinarians, and these are roles that you

Some of the fathers who attended the Conference.

must take seriously.”

Mrs Abbott-King declared that there have been positive results from the first conference last year. “We have seen an increase in the number of fathers visiting the school. We have heard many positive testimonies from fathers whose lives have been impacted from the Dads Day and the excitement on the children’s faces when the

fathers are present.

Dr. Reynold Murray, Environmental Science Consultant and Pastor, delivered the feature address. He challenged the fathers to recognize their role and responsibility as leaders of their children.

According to Dr. Murray, many of the adults are failing and as a result, children are going astray.

He reminded the

fathers that as leaders, “You have to lead the children in a place that you want them to be. ..

You need to lead them in the paths of righteousness,” supporting his admonition with reference to him being a good farther because he brought up his children in the house of God. “When you have become a good father, your responsibility is not

confined to your house; you have to be a father for every child,” Dr. Murray advised.

The presentations were followed by a breakout/group discussion segment during which the fathers deliberated on ways in which they can become actively and productively involved in their children’s academic and social life.

16. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 17.

Education

Fifty-nine graduate from St. MartinÊs

hard work and dedication of the graduating class of 2018, and commended them for having completed this chapter of their educational sojourn.

Edwards also highlighted the success of the students at the 2017 CSEC examination, noting that students achieved 75% in most subject areas and performed well in Sports and Music. He took the opportunity to commend his staff.

The feature address was delivered by an outstanding past student, now Manager, Engineering at VINLEC, Dr. Vaughn Lewis.

Lewis, in his presentation, spoke to both educators and students.

He said that educators have an impact on the lives on the young people under their care, and reminded them that they are responsible for Othneil Williams, Top Student 2017/18, delivering shaping the next the valedictory address. generation.

It was because he had

by KENVILLE HORNE Assumption, Kingstown. “good teachers’, why he The graduation was able to do well, and FIFTY-NINE STUDENTS of ceremony was held under Dr. Lewis encouraged the the St. Martin’s Secondary the theme: Be bold , be School (SMSS) said their courageous , be your final goodbye to the best. institution at their In his address at the graduation Tuesday 19th ceremony, Principal of June, 2018, at the R.C. the SMSS Wendell Cathedral of the Edwards recognized the

Diel Spring (right) received his Sportsman of the Year 2017/18 Award, from Pamenos Ballantyne, Sports Master SMSS.

educators “who work so hard to maintain the high standard of this school, to continue to pursue your very noble profession……. be courageous, be bold.”

Turning to the graduating class, Dr. Lewis advised them to fine “their call and use their talent … be yourself … it’s hard but rewarding.”

In a world in which, “there are so many negatives…. our morals are being negatively influenced … morals that have stood for centuries are now being challenged, and what were unacceptable in biblical times have recently become acceptable.” Dr. Lewis encouraged the graduates to seek God if they are to avoid falling prey to these influences.

Kay Martin- Jack Senior Education Officer, delivered congratulations to the staff and students on behalf of the Ministry of Education. She noted that the graduation marks not just the end of secondary education but

the start of greater things.

Among those receiving awards was Othneil Williams, who was adjudged to be the Year’s Top Student.

He received awards as top performer in English A, English B, EDPM and Integrated Science, was named Prefect of the Year and was the 2018 Valedictorian.

Tyrique Edwards was the top performing in Biology, Geography, Physics and Principles of Business, and Sean Soleyn did likewise Dr. Vaughn Lewis, past in Family and student and guest speaker.

Resource Management, Food, Principal’s Award for Nutrition and Health Dedication and Loyalty and Visual Art. to Joel Ross; the The awards for Performing Arts- Music Chemistry, Mathematics Award to Damien Da went to Reon Roberts.

Souza, and the De La In the special awards salle Award to Haquiem category, the Sportsman Noel. of the Year award went The graduates chose to Diel Spring; Jamaican reggae artiste Perseverance Award to Chronixx’s song ‘Legend’ Keifah DeFreitas; as their graduation song.

18. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 19.

Arts

Poorsah joins Soca Masters ALL ROADS LEAD TO LAYOU for the grandest post Vincy Mas session anywhere in SVG. On July 14, the Becket Benefit Organisation (BBO) — a non-profit organization - will host Soca Masters 4, a concert that features a mixture of artistes who have made sterling and lasting contributions to the musical

landscape of SVG, and contemporary artistes who are making names for themselves locally, regionally and internationally.

This year, Soca Masters will shine the spotlight on Cornelius ‘Poorsah’ Williams — double Calypso Monarch title holder and six times Road March winner.

‘Poorsah’, who hails from Troumaca in the North Leeward area, and could easily be considered the fore-runner and benchmark for today’s fellow North Leeward artistes like multi-times winner of the Soca Monarch title Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper, is Cornelius ‘Poorsah’ Williams is the billed Masters particularly remembered act at this year’s Soca Masters concert. for his biting social and political commentaries, couched in folkloric references like ‘Roll Bolley’ and ‘Mouth in ah me mooma’.

His Road March winners have crisscrossed the eras, moving from the traditional spicy number like ‘Go right up in dey’, to the more contemporary soca-driven ‘Hairy Bank’.

‘Poorsah’ remains a drawing card as a guest artiste both home and abroad, and the BBO said it is more than pleased to showcase a “son of the soil who has toiled in the vineyard of his homeland and achieved stardom”.

Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James is fast He will be joined by one of the more becoming a household name in the sought after contemporary Vincentian regional and international soca recording/performing artistes and arena. composers - Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James. hits, invoking nostalgic sentiments, and ‘Problem Child’ will come to the Soca whetting their appetite with a taste of Masters stage fresh off another things new. successful year — 2018 — and the Other artistes down to perform at strength of being Road March winner in Soca Masters 4 include Gregory ‘DJ 2017.

Twenty’ Small, a founding member of In fact, he grabbed his first national Roses Crew that gave him and Firemen carnival-related title when he literally a start in the recording/performing arts ran away with the Road March in 2007 arena. Like ‘Poorsah’, ‘DJ Twenty’ hails with his monster hit ‘Party Animal’, from North Leeward and his work, e.g. which many said catapulted him into the ‘Seed Under Leaf’, is also influenced by regional and international market. the rhythms and sankees of the folklore The BBO said it was more than open of that region. to having Problem Child on the Soca Add the likes of soca artiste ‘Grabba Master 4 cast since “he is moving swiftly Finesses’, DJ’s Prezzo and Ambi, the to leaving an indelible mark on the indomitable Randy D as Master of music annals of SVG, if he hasn’t done Ceremonies and even more surprises, so already”. and there is nowhere else to spend And the catch of the cast, the musical Saturday 14th July, 2018 than at Soca band Blacksand, reunited for Vincy Mas Masters 4, starting at 8pm at the Layou 2014, will be live and in living colour to Hardcourt, Layou. give the people a good dose of their past

Blacksand promises to invoke emotions of the past and tickle with something-- new.

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

First Responders conduct chainsaw training Right: The first chainsaw operations on the way in Fairhall.

IN AN EFFORT to sensitize and mobilize residents towards a level of preparedness for the 2018 hurricane season, the SVG First Responders (SVGFR) conducted its first ever chainsaw operations training for volunteers.

On Saturday, June 23, Lawson Bonadie, logistical officer from the SVGFR, conducted a chainsaw operations training session in Fairhall, to provide members of that community with skills necessary to clear fallen trees following landslides or storms.

Later that same day, a slide presentation was also held in the area called ‘The Boat’, depicting scenes of

damage done by hurricane Maria in Dominica in September 2017. The object of the slide presentation was to highlight the type and degree of devastation that can result from violent storms, and the need for each community to have their own disaster response team.

According to Mr. Bonadie, this activity was designed “to get the community aware and involved, because some situations demand that roads be cleared so that vehicles transporting badly injured victims can reach clinics without delay.”

He went on to say that similar sessions will be conducted in other

vulnerable communities and that the second aspect of the training in Fairhall will involve basic servicing of chainsaws, as well as serving as a refresher course for those who received the initial training.

Addressing the audience during the slide presentation was Donald De Riggs, Executive Director of the Rainbow Radio League Inc. — RRL. He advised that each community must identify and get the support of the electricians, plumbers, carpenters, chainsaw operators, nurses, truck/minibus drivers, in short all the persons with skills that will be

useful in a pre or post disaster scenario. “So that if several trees are blocking the main road, the chainsaw operators from that community can clear the road, or if there was an impending eruption, truck and minibus drivers could evacuate the residents and also to bring supplies for shelters and so on.”

He also commended Mr. Bonadie on the fine

job done, and encouraged the community to support similar disaster management initiatives.

Also on hand to participate in the chainsaw training was Arthur De Shong, President of the SVGFR. He also encouraged the Fairhall residents to make full use of the training which was provided as a free service from the First Responders group, and

encouraged more persons to become involved.

It is hoped that NEMO and private sector corporations would complement this type of training with the provision of equipment to the communities that show a readiness to become organized pre and post natural disasters.

Release contributed by: Donald De Riggs.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 21.

Community

CIBC gets ready for Walk for the Cure IF PREPARATIONS alone are any indicator, this year’s CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Walk for the Cure, the region’s largest cancer fundraiser, seems set to break new fundraising records.

The organizing committees for the various walks are busy meeting and planning, with fundraising activities heating up all across the English and Dutch Caribbean as the 17 territories where CIBC FirstCaribbean is located prepare to engage regional and local sponsors as well as other charitable partners, for Walk for the Cure 2018.

The phenomenal fundraising and

cancer care and awareness raising cevent has generated over USD$1.75 million in sponsorship and donations over the past six years, and is seeking to add in a major way to that total this year.

Despite the setbacks caused by the adverse weather last year, the hard work of hundreds of bank staff volunteers in partnership with various cancer care organisations and over 160 corporate sponsors, raised just over USD$450 000.

“We are really excited about Walk for the Cure this year. There is a

One again, CIBC FirstCaribbean – SVG – will join their colleagues in the annual ‘Walk for the Cure’ fund-raiser.

definite buzz across our business as we gear up for this very exciting time,” said Walk Co-Chair and Managing Director Retail and Business Banking, Mark St. Hill.

He noted that the bank was “particularly happy that Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, St. Maarten and Turks and Caicos Islands which had to cancel their walks last year due to the devastation caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria, despite not being fully back on their feet, are all deeply engaged and ready to participate fully in this year’s events.”

Managing Director, Cards, & Customer Relationship Management and fellow Co-Chair, Trevor Torzsas, added his bit, saying, “I am extremely proud of all the volunteers at CIBC FirstCaribbean who have grown this

initiative from just 2,000 walkers in 2012 to 30,000 in 2017. We are expecting record numbers to come out and participate during the various walks this year.”

This year, the fundraising walks will be spread over two months spanning weekends in September and October in various territories. The change is a direct result of the unpredictability of the weather around the region at this time of year.

All of the funds raised go to: providing assistance, care and counselling to cancer patients and their families; raising awareness through education campaigns across the region; assisting with the purchase and maintenance of equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.

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22. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Colonisation and God’s plan for building his Kingdom iron fist (Acts 1:6). But here was this YAHSHUA said that when nondescript, ordinaryhe came to his own looking individual from (Israel), they did not among their ranks welcome him. But as many (Heb 7:14), who was not as received Him, and even born in the right believed on His name, to social circumstances, them He would give the born instead in a authority to call stable,of all places themselves His sons (Jn (Lk 2:12), the son of a 1:11-13). lowly carpenter. To Apparently Israel was make matters worse, he expecting an imposing was born in a little town figure, perhaps even a called Bethlehem, in military one, to come and Judea (Lk 2:4). rescue them from Rome’s As the law required,

by NEGUS BYNOE

He was circumcised on the eighth day, and named (Lk 2:21), and the requisite sacrifice offered (Lk 2:24).

And while Yahshua’s parents were in the temple. “Behold there was a man whose name was Simeon who was a just and devout man, who was awaiting Israel’s consolation, (and) to whom the spirit of Yah revealed that he would not see death, until he had seen the Most High’s

Anointed/Chosen - the Lord’s Messiah. (Lk 2: 25,26).

Among other things, Simeon prophesied that the child was set for the rise and fall of many again, in Israel (Lk 2:34).

Luke (Lk 2: 40) declared that the child grew, and became strong in spirit, and filled with wisdom, and the favour of Yah was upon him.

Luke (Lk 2:51) recorded that he was subject to his parents’

authority.

And Yahshua was about thirty years old when he was baptized, as was the custom, and the Ruach Hakodesh (Holy Spirit) descended upon him in the shape of a dove, and a voice spoke from heaven affirming Him (Lk 3:21-23).

Thus he began his public ministry, and immediately, the Ruach Hakodesh led him into the wilderness for his first battle with the devil (Lk 4:1,2). What a battle it was!

The devil attempted to give Him back possession of the planet, having received it by trickery, and deceit (Gen 3:4-6), claiming that it was his to give legitimately (Lk 4:6).

And so the Saviour and Redeemer came unto his people Israel first, because salvation is of the Jews (Jn 4:22).

Alas, they ignored him, just as they had done in the past (Isa 65:2). “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’ (Isa 65:1).

To move Israel to jealousy (Deu 32:21/Rom 10:19), and to make his power known to ALL nations (Rom 9:22), Yahshua reached out to the Gentiles (non-Jews).

Thus the question arose: “Has Yah cast aside his people? (Rom 11:1). Paul answered: “God forbade!”, but WHAT IF..

Paul continued (Rom 9: 30-33): “What can we now say: That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained it through faith, but Israel who followed the LAW of righteousness, did not attain it because they sought it not by faith but, as it were, by the works of the law? . For they stumbled over at that STUMBLING STONE.” And we know that that “stumbling stone” was Yahshua, for He is the “CHIEF CORNER STONE” (Eph 2:20), For as Paul writes in Rom 9:33, “Behold I lay in Zion a stumbling stone, and a rock of offense, and whosoever believeth on Him shall

not be ashamed.”

Israel had continued to put their trust in the law of works for salvation, instead of placing their FAITH in Yahshua.

Mind you, the law has its place and is certainly not DONE AWAY WITH as some teach, for Yahshua said that He did not DESTROY/ABOLISH the law (Matt 5:17), but fulfilled it.

How did he fulfill the law but not abolish it?

By being the LAMB OF GOD THAT TOOK AWAY THE SINS OF THE WORLD (Jn 1:29).

He fulfilled the law of burnt sacrifices, but ALL the others are STILL INTACT! No, the law CANNOT save us; that was NEVER its intended purpose. It was like a schoolmaster, pointing out to us our sinfulness, and leading us to Christ.

That was all it was supposed to do (Gal 3:24).

That is STILL ITS PURPOSE, i.e. to convert the soul (Ps 19:7-14). It’s there for our protection, guidance, conversion, and wisdom.

Without law, anarchy will rule, that is why the Royal Law is STILL the cornerstone of the Justice system around the world. Only lawbreakers need fear the law and its consequences, for sin is still defined as a transgression of THE LAW (1Jn 34), and ALWAYS will be.

So, here is Israel holding on to law ALONE for Salvation, and totally missing the fact, that it is only attained by faith in Yahshua, the Messiah.

As a result of their stubborn ignorance, the Gentiles were able to reach out by faith and embrace the Messiah, and the Salvation which he so graciously offers.

Still Yah maintains that he will reach out to Israel a SECOND TIME (Isa 11:11)..and that includes those of us in THE ISLANDS OF THE SEA. HALLELUYAH!!!!!

So Israel, it is high time to awake out of sleep, because our salvation is much nearer than when we FIRST believed!

To be continued.....

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29 , 2018. 23.

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24. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Poor light – call off the game?

Dear George,

I’m dating a young lady who lives in Barbados and we are at the point where we are discussing getting engaged.

Something, however, is bothering me. She lives alone, but whenever I attempt to video call her, she would decline the call. When I ask when is a good time to call her, she cannot give me a definite answer.

I told her I have some time off from work and want to visit her, but she said she might be travelling to New York at that same time. Shouldn’t she be more excited to have me around and to see me? I’m getting suspicious.

Could it be that she has someone?

Doubts evermore

You know deep down that this young lady is playing you, but you find it difficult to admit it. It could very well be that she does not live alone or is not as disengaged as she has led you to believe.

There are too many shadows on the ground, and you have every reason to call the game off due to bad or poor light. Hold off on the engagement talks and take more time to get to know this young lady, and if she is really into you. My guess she is not.

Dear Doubts evermore,

George

Temptation!!!!

Dear George,

Dear Desperate,

I AM 35 years old and extremely lonely. I cannot find a man to settle with. I have not had sex in 6 years.

There is this guy who came to my house and told me he cannot promise me marriage because he does not like the idea anymore after being burnt twice, but he can give me the best sex of my life.

George, I am tempted because I need some attention. At this point I’m willing to accept his offer because my body clock is ticking away. I don’t want to waste any more time.

You have to be careful not to let your desperation force you into giving yourself away cheaply. At 35, you still have time to find yourself the man of your dreams. When you lower your value, you can only expect to be treated accordingly.

You are better off giving yourself more time and a chance for true happiness, than settling for what would be a flash of bliss that would only eventually be reduced to less than what you bargained for.

George

Desperate

‘Under-sexed’ and begging Dear George, I HAVE SPOKEN to a friend of mine who claimed she is ‘under sexed’ by her husband.

She wants me to fill that void. Her husband told her that a married woman should only expect sex once every two weeks or less. She told me she wants it several times a week. I am also married but I can give her what she wants. Do you see anything wrong with me doing her this favour?

Willing Dear Willing, You need to leave this woman to work her problems out with her

husband. They need to up their level of communication and embrace the concept of compromise. Encourage her to get some

counselling. In the end, she would appreciate you more as s true and well respected friend.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) You may have difficulties while traveling or problems dealing with close friends or rela‐ tives. Go out with friends and avoid the situa‐ tion on the home front. Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Take time to visit someone who has been I confined due to illness. Don't give up what you have until you can be certain just what it is you're getting. Unrealistic promises will only get you in trouble. Don't count on your friends to be loyal when it comes to doing things.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Your best gains will come through helping others emotionally. Your need to be in a lead‐ ership position will help you surpass any rivals you might encounter. You can't do everything on your own. All your energy should be directed into moneymaking opportunities.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Secret enemies will be eager to spread rumors about you. Your generous nature could be taken advantage of. Think hard before going into business with friends or family. You will have a great deal of insight when dealing with others.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism. Don't divulge secret information.

Get together with friends and catch up on reading and letter writing. You may experi‐ ence setbacks due to additional responsibili‐ ties with loved ones.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Mingle with individuals who are established and can give you some serious insight into business and future trends. Don't upset elders in your family who don't understand your present situation. You may be emotionally unstable if you let someone you care about get away with verbal abuse. You need to be active and spend time with friends you enjoy.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Keep your feelings to yourself if you want to avoid embarrassment. Short trips will be edu‐ cational. You are best to work at home if you can. Socially, you need a fast‐paced form of entertainment.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Try to keep to yourself; work diligently on domestic chores and responsibilities.

Residential moves will be favorable, and larg‐ er quarters the most probable direction.

Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action. Don't let your per‐ sonal dilemmas interfere with your goals.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Don't let your stubborn nature get the better of you. You should follow through on educa‐ tional endeavors you have wanted to pursue for some time. You may cause a fuss if you come on too strongly in public. Opportunities to meet new lovers will evolve through your interaction with groups or fundraising func‐ tions.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week. Your attitude could be up and down like a yo‐yo. Do things because you want to, not because someone else thinks you should. You will want to complain about the in justice that is going on, AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) You should get out and enjoy social events where you are likely to meet new potential mates; however, don't over spend. Try to join groups of interest such as ballroom dance classes or perhaps an internet organization.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You will be able to find the perfect outfit, and the greatest new accessory for your house. Be sure to find out all you can before you commit to anything. You may be the recipient of false information. If they don't want to get involved, work by yourself.

ACROSS 4. Sorrowful 8. Large owl 11. Stately aquatic bird 13. Falsehood 14. Area of authority 15. Scent 17. Move through the air 18. Jump in figure skating 19. Postpone 21. Be seated 22. Clock face 24. Storage container 27. Dull 29. Wager 31. Definite article 33. June 6, 1944 35. River in Central Switzerland 36. Consecrated 38. Sheath for a sword 40. Lay again 42. Fling 43. Sledge 45. Spanish rice dish 49. 19th letter of the Greek alphabet 50. Help 51. Consair 52. Root of the taro DOWN 1. Aria 2. Ancient 3. Spun by spiders 4. Slop 5. Supporter 6. Betwixt

7. Slender part of the leg 9. Helper 10. Idiot 11. Country lad 12. Very skilled person 16. Sudden assault 20. Unit of linear measure 21. Akin 23. Youths 25. German Mister 26. Foot covering 28. German composer 29. Bleat of a sheep

30. Spread out for drying 31. Rebuke 32. Old cloth measures 34. Showing unusual talent

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 25.

37. Seaport in the Crimea 39. Brassiere 41. 365 days 44. Pair 46. Chield 47. Cover 48. Fuss

V

26. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports Feature

Richland Park retains Scotiabank KC Quiz Title THE PAIR OF SYNELIA SHOY and K’Nellia Peters ensured that the Richland Park Government School retained the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket Quiz, when they beat the representatives of the Pamelus Burke Government in the finals, held on Friday, June 15, at

the Red Cross headquarters.

The Belmont Primary School finished third.

The other schools participating were: Calliaqua Anglican, Langley Park Government, New Grounds

Primary, Paradise Primary School Bequia (formerly Lower Bay Primary), and Evesham Methodist School.

The students were tested on their knowledge of cricket and the school subject areas of Mathematics,

Geography and Social Studies.

In addition to the Richland Park Government Schools, those receiving individual accolades included: Devanti Dabreo of the Pamelus Burke Government —

The champion Richland Park Government pair (from left) – Synelia Shoy – Most Outstanding Girl – and K’Nellia Peters receive the Champions Trophy from Norman Cumberbatch of Scotiabank, St. Vincent.

Most Outstanding Boy; Synelia Shoy of the Richland Park Government — Most Outstanding Girl; of the Richland Park Government — best Teacher Award.

The Scotiabanksponsored Kiddy Cricket programme was introduced to St. Vincent in 2000. It aims to help primary school children develop a life-long passion for cricket, positive values and good sportsmanship.

As such, therefore, through Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket, children not only acquire an interest in the sport, they develop interpersonal skills, selfconfidence, and selfdiscipline, qualities that benefit them for a lifetime.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Devanti Dabreo of the Pamelus Burke Government School – Most Outstanding Boy.

The finalists in the 2018 Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket Quiz, with Scotiabank rep.

V TSSS opens HarrysÊ Gym

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 27.

Set at an estimated cost of $60 000, the main financier is widow- Sarah Blundred, who said she wanted to do something tangible for her deceased husband (Harry), who had a special love for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Speaking at last Friday’s official opening, Mrs. Blundred related: “The investment my husband and I have made in the Thomas Saunders Sarah Blundred Secondary School and its students is entirely due to making her presentation at last Mr John Renton and the The late Harry Blundred.

Friday’s opening of fantastic and dedicated the Thomas staff at this school, but Rogike Thorpe, Inglis Daniel and Kailon Kirby, trying out the implements THE THOMAS SAUNDERS more especially to the deep Saunders Secondary at Harrys’ Gym at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, last Friday.

SECONDARY SCHOOL (TSSS) School’s Gym. connection and now has a gym of its own, which unbreakable bond which promised. can cater to the training needs Meanwhile, Principal of the Penn Relays… Mrs Sarah my husband and I have made Blundred — she is the wind Apart from the significant of its students, staff and by Thomas Saunders Secondary with Mr Godfrey Harry and beneath the wings of our contribution of Mrs Blundred, extension, the general public.

School John Renton, in his his beautiful and equally Athletics Programme,” Renton there was financial input from The gym, located on the presentation, praised Godfrey stated. dedicated and hardworking the school, a contribution from compound of the school at Harry for his tenacity in wife, Sylvorn.”

The school’s Principal Coreas Inc. and BRAGSA Richmond Hill, was officially making the gym a reality, and Blundred underscored, assured that the gym will be which provided the manopened last Friday. recognise the input of Mrs “This gym has been cared for and the investments power.

The new facility is in Sarah Blundred. established so that all of the

by Mrs Blundred cherished.

The gym consists of a honour of the late Harry “Coach Harry is the man students of the Thomas “This facility will be utilized rubber gym mat flooring, two Blundred and current Physical Saunders Secondary School with the vision, skill and most efficiently to enable our sets of kettle bells in 4Kg, 8Kg Education teacher at the dedication who has driven the may have access to first class athletes to become stronger and 12Kg, along with four sets Thomas Saunders Secondary success of the Athletics equipment, and so go on to be and fitter and fulfill their of 150Kg weights, storage School - Godfrey Harry, the Programme at the Thomas first class sportsmen and potential and her investment racks and four power cadges. brainchild behind the project. women.”

Saunders Secondary to the bear fruit in plenty,” Renton

Teams Rivals are T20 Champions

Team Rivals – 2018 Neil Williams T20 Champions.

Right: Police Two – losing finalist.

TEAM RIVALS GOT SWEET REVENGE when they beat Police Two in the finals of the Neil Williams T20, at the Sion Hill Playing Field last Saturday.

The two went into last Saturday’s finals, with

the Lawmen having the psychological advantage, having beaten their rivals in the finals of the inaugural Club Championship a few months ago.

The match, according to one observer, turned out to be a “flat affair” characterized by low scores.

Team Rivals batted first and closed at 145 when the last of ball of their 20 overs was bowled. Casmond Walters led the batting with a ‘patient’ 83. Fast bowler Romano Bibby with 3 for 34 and Darious Martin 2 for 22 were the Lawmen’s best bowlers.

Police Two put in a disappointing reply, eventually folding in the 19th over for 109, to hand Team Rivals victory by a comfortable 36 runs.

Sylvan Spencer hit 32 and Desron Maloney 21 to lead the Police

Rivals’ Cosman Walters hit 83, the top score in the match.

Right: Deighton Butler took 4 wickets to lead all bowlers in the match. batting. Deighton Butler, bowling leg spin, accounted for 4 Police wickets for 34 runs, and combined with off spinner Ronald Wilkinson, 2 for 25, to help destroy any hope Police Two had of a repeat victory.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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28. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Joesph receives WIPA/ CWI Lifetime Award VINCENTIAN Dawnley Joseph received the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) Lifetime Achievement Award, when the sixth WIPA/ Cricket West Indies Awards Ceremony was held last Wednesday night at the Hilton Hotel, Barbados.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to persons who have served West Indies cricket both on and off the field, according to WIPA. Joseph is a former St Vincent and the Grenadines and Windwards, West Indies B team opening batsman, who began playing cricket at the age of nine.

His introduction to local competitive cricket was with the unit Gibson

Building Construction Third World.

He would later become a fixture of the Stubbs-based Spartans Cricket Club, before making his St Vincent and the Grenadines debut at the Under-19 level, in 1983.

His progression was quick, and soon he was captaining both the SVG and Windwards at the senior level, not just with aplomb but with regular success as an opening batsman.

A West Indies B team tour to Zimbabwe in 1989 and selection to the President’s XI against Australia in 1991, were both reward for his exploits and recognition of his ability, and many have gone on record as saying that had he campaigned in an era that

NSC not kept in the loop THE SITUATION which Manager of currently exists between the national sports associations National and the National Sports Sports Council (NSC) could well be Council described as a case of the Miles right hand not knowing Bascombe. what the left hand is doing, This was borne out with respect to activities of some national associations, activities of which the management of the NSC was unaware.

At a recent stakeholders meeting held at the NSC’s Conference Room at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, the NSC Manager Miles Bascombe was honest about his ignorance as it related to some associations.

Commenting on what appeared to be an encumbered information flow, Bascombe related, “I was very surprised to know that there would have been some national representative teams that would have just completed duties overseas, (and) that I would not have heard before, and some that are upcoming that I was not aware of.”

The Manager called on associations to address this in the very near future.

“What I intend to do is to reach out to the associations (so they can) make it a practice of sending to the Council, information on national teams, when they travel… the tournaments they would travel to,” Bascombe projected, adding that national associations can also make use of the NSC’s website in this respect.

The NSC Manager noted that, whilst some information of national teams’ overseas assignments may be published in the weekly newspapers, there could be performances and other data that can be captured on the NSC’s website.

“Give us some information so we can publish,” Bascombe beckoned, and went on to posit that one of the key components of the website would be to make this information public, “as recognising our sportsmen is an important part of developing the sport.”

He lamented: “One of the issues we have in sports in the country is that we have a lot of the budding sports persons who do not see the success of our sports persons enough …It is not in their faces enough.”

The stakeholders meeting brought together representatives from national sporting associations, who had interfaced with the National Sports Council and the Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture, as all parties unveiled their plans and projections for sports here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Bascombe’s comments came following presentations made by representatives of the various national sporting associations represented at the meeting.

did not include the likes of Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes, he could have well gone on to play for the West Indies at full test level.

Joseph called it a day on national representation in 2016, although he remained committed to his club Spartans.

He still represents Stubbs in Dawnley Joseph (left) accepts the WIPA/CWI Lifetime Achievement Award from Mr. Wavell the National Masters Cricket Competition and plays for New Hinds - President and CEO of WIPA. York Masters in the Annual Islander and opening batsman Carriacou Masters 20/20 Cricket Grenadian Devon Smith, who received Festival.

Among the others receiving awards the First Class Four Day Cricketer of the Year Award. was Joseph’s fellow Windward

‘More traditional games, please’ TEAM ATHLETICS SVG’s Technical Director- Chester Morgan, would like to see a return of traditional games to the schools and communities.

Morgan’s plea came following last Saturday’s hosting of Olympic Day commemoration at the Grammar School Playing Field, which focussed on playing of traditional games.

Among the games which were part of the day’s activities were Rounders, Dodge, Marbles, Hula Hoops, Morale, Hop Scotch, Tug- o — War and Skipping.

“After observing the children, I realise many of them lack some of the basic motor skills to play these games effectively …

The children had deficiencies in the ABC … Agility, Balance and Co-ordination, “ Morgan stated.

But there was a greater revelation for Morgan and others who conducted the Chester Morgan- Team Athletics SVG’s Technical Director.

Getting the game of Morale going. games among the children drawn from several primary schools across the island.

“Whilst many lacked the basic motor skills, what was more instructive, was that some children have never played these games,” Morgan lamented.

Explaining the benefits of traditional games, Morgan proffered, “They provide the necessary motor skills for other sporting disciplines… they are fun and easy to learn.”

He issued a call for the primary schools to make an effort to have the traditional games part and parcel of the ‘games period’ of Physical Education sessions, and suggested that the games should be introduced among the lower forms of the secondary schools.

Morgan extended his position by advising that the traditional games are also good promoters of “conflict resolutions.”

Some years ago, the Division of Physical Education and Sports had embarked on placing several Hop Scotch and Moral boxes on the compounds of several primary schools, with the hope that the students would get involved in learning and playing these games.

A Hop Scotch session last Saturday at the Grammar School Playing Field.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 29.

Sports

Delicate times THESE ARE delicate times. The seconds tick so fleetingly that some matters don’t fall into place.

Or they change so unpredictably that one appears to be out of sync.

Events might have so absorbed the West Indies that they gravitated more to the action in Russia than on concentrating on the Day/Night Test Match witnessed in the Caribbean for the first time.

Only the diehards followed the progress. It was one when its timing came under open scrutiny.

Off field activities attracted greater attention than what was attained with bat and ball.

While bats have been under casual observation, the ball has come in for more open focus.

Everyone knows Pauls Keen Douglas’s presentation about the Ball.

Perhaps the Grenadian born folklorist will remix his ‘Ball’ story to include tales about how it is being disfigured.

Players have to be subtle with their adjustment measures. Before the prevalence of cameras, it was easy to make alterations.

The sudden collapse of teams would have been attributed to clever bowling, tactics by the captain, change in the weather conditions, and state of the pitch, loss of concentration by batsmen, poor shot selection or attitude.

The idea of ball tampering was not a matter of interest. Times are changing and ball tampering is an aspect of prime concern. The dust may have settled on the eruption caused in South Africa.

This has churned out a new era in cricket.

There will be greater scrutiny on what takes place in the arena. What fans will never know is the extent of manipulation that exists in the corridors of the structures through which the contest pans out.

Investigations by the news network Aljazeera have raised issues which bring some measures of integrity to the fore.

West Indies have not found themselves in hot water, or so it appears. We are not known for ball tampering prowess. Our blemishes have been over-exuberance by some players which have been dealt with overtly or in diplomatic fashion.

It is a pity that there has been friction between players and the administrators over a protracted period. The Sri Lankans have levelled the series and acquired pride. The West Indies will be condemned for their second innings capitulation in Barbados, but that must not be ridiculed.

The series was played in an atmosphere of cordiality. Perhaps there were semblances of timidity. There might be a case of different strokes for different folks. Besides the ball issue, the time spent in negotiations added another blotch to the status of Test cricket.

Sri Lanka, on reflection, will consider themselves unfortunate to have squandered an opportunity of a possible series victory in the West Indies. That’s what the series was projected on.

As it turned out, they were lucky not to have been punished by more forthright umpires.

The West Indies are not keen on side shows.

We have been made to hold the blade on many instances while others possessed the handle in firm grasp.

Whining is not the way to go. That not a basis for success. Vincentians are engaged in different complaints.

The choices are available, and the good thing is that it is rising to a crescendo. There will be avenues of departure. As we become engrossed in daily events, there must be balance of the sublime and the abstract.

North Leeward Cricket in train THE 2018 EDITION of the VINLEC North Leeward Cricket Competition was ceremonially opened last Sunday, with a friendly 50 Overs match between a North Windward Eleven and a North Leeward Eleven, at the Cumberland Playing Field.

In what was reduced to a 30 overs affair, the men from the Windward beat their Leeward counterparts by 4 wickets.

Scores: North Leeward 152 from 27 overs Donald Delpesche 47, Winston Samuel 25.

Jemmoth Brackin 2 for 17, Streford Ballantyne 2 for 13; North Windward 157 for 6 from 21 overs Dillon Douglas 45, Winston Samuel 3 for 39.

A return match is set for July 15 at the London

Playing Field, North Windward.

Elron Lewis, - PRO of the North Leeward Sports and Cultural Association (NLSCA), said the Zonal T20 cricket competition involving 8 North Leeward teams along with invitees Rudy’s Electrical and Police - will see preliminary action the Petit Bordel Playing Field, with the quarter finals, semi-finals and final being played at Cumberland.

The competition will break for the carnival festivities and will recommence soon after.

And this year’s addition, an inaugural 50 overs tournament, will get going at the Cumberland Playing Field, after the CWI U19

The North Leeward team.

The winning North Windward team. tournament to be played here in August.

The 50 overs tournament will serve as a developmental tournament, and will involve only villages in North Leeward. This, according to the NLSCA, is in keeping with a decision to expose North Leeward players to more cricket, with the view to select the best team to compete in the NLA National First Division tournament.

And according to Lewis, the North Leeward Cricket Academy’s youth programme is scheduled for the summer vacation and will accommodate Under-15 and 19 cricketers.

Meanwhile, the NLSCA has come to the assistance of one of its own. The Association recently made a presentation of cricket gear to O’Jay Matthews,

O’Jay Matthews (left) receives a gift of a bat and batting gloves from Elron Lewis – PRO/ NLSCA. who was selected to the SVG team to compete in the Windward Islands U19 Tournament - June 24 to July 1.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Bailey blasts field in 75-miler was the stand out end line at the Sion in the Masters Hill Intersection.

Category, as he Bailey claims that left a gulf his stints in between him and Martinique and races the other entrant in Antigua, have made — Martin Bollers him “sharper” and race in a 55-mile ready. event.

Finishing second, a Durrant distance away, was clocked 3 hours Samuel Lyttle, in a 19 minutes 58.01 time of 4 hours seconds, and 10 minutes 00.70 Bollers completed seconds. the race, 33 Lyttle in turn, minutes later in had a 20 minutes a time of 4 hours lead on third 02 minutes 55 place Lucky seconds.

Antrobus, whose All cyclists time was 4 hours rode from the 30 minutes 47 SVG Automotive seconds.

Gas Station on The other Bentick Square, cyclist in the to Langley Park Elite category to on the Windward complete the side of the island, course was returning to the Marlon Antrobus, Round About in who clocked 4 Arnos Vale from hours 36 minutes where they rode 21.04 seconds.

Zefal Bailey close to Albert finish line at the Sion Hill to Diamond.

The elite Quammie started Intersection, as he wins cyclists were the race but the 7- mile race. required to loop failed to stay the from the Round course.

The ever About to Diamond three times, improving Samuel Peter Durrant has Lyttle makes his while the masters, did so once.

Masters Category won all masters All cyclists finished at the Sion way to the finish Like Bailey, Peter Durrant Hill Intersection. races for 2018. line.

ZEFAL BAILEY, the top man in local cycling, outclassed the other competitors in the Elite Category with some disdain, as he won the 75-mile road race last Sunday as the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union staged its National Championships.

Bailey timed 3 hours 52 minutes 25 seconds and, in the process, had 18 minutes of rest before the second place crossed the

30. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018. 31.

Classifieds

T20 action continues in Bequia

OFFICE SPACE TO RENT Kingstown Park Secure Convenient Spacious Near everything 784-528-9529 or 718-297-8005

THERE WERE victories for Sugar Reef Bequia United and D AUSSIES, and one no result in last weekend round of matches in the 2018 Bequia T20 Cricket Competition.

Sugar Reef Bequia beat Dockside Marine by 5 wickets. Scores: Dockside Marine 94 from 20 overs - Mclean Boucher 23, Cosmos Hackshaw 3 for 11; Sugar Reef Bequia United 96 for 5 from 14 overs - Cosmos Hackshaw 24, Garin Willey 2 for 19, Stenneth Compton 2 for 10.

Knights Trading D AUSSIES beat Royal Challengers. Scores: Knights Trading D AUSSIES: 142 for from 11 overs - Marcus Castello 47, Roger Gibson 2 for 28; Royal Challenger 141 for 6 from 15 overs - Nickie Antoine 51 not out, Kenvil Sam 35. Marcus Castello 2 for 17, Meshack Williams 2 for 19.

The match between Davis Construction Port Elizaberth Masters and Friendship United was deemed to be a no result, rain having played havoc with the fixture. When rain stopped play, Friendship United were 43 for 2 from 3.4 in reply to Davis Construction Port Elizaberth Masters 108 from 15 overs - Erikson Browne 33. Alrick Pompy 2 for 24.

All matches are played at the Clive Tannis Playing Field.

PROPERTY FOR SALE 3 bedroom house on 19,266 sq. ft. of land at Cane End - $300,00 Tel:457-2788 454-4739

REPAIRS Washing machine and microwave repairs

HOME SERVICES 455-5018/431-0539

I.B.A.ALLEN

CLEMENT LESLIE BEVENEY Brighton Methodist Church Monday 25th June, 2018.

Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

JERRY V. CHARLES Open Bible Church Friday, 22 June, 2018 Viewing: 1:30 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

KAMARLI M.S. JAMES Saturday 23rd June 2018 Cathedral of the Assumption Service: 2:00 p.m.

OLGA SUSAN WILLIAMS FRANCOIS Ebenezer SDA Church Belle Vue, Park Hill Sunday, 24th June, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

JUNE 29, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.26

A.I. REAL ESTATE Canash Executive house 7,818 sq.ft on 33,670 sq.ft - CALL - H195 Mayreau 10,060 sq.ft @ $13.50 p.s.f. - $135,810.00 - BB910 Murrays Road Commercial Property on 22,833 sq.ft.

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www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

The 33ft Defender Class Safe Interceptor vessel from the United States of America, that was added to the SVG Coast Guard complement last Monday.

SVG COAST GUARD GETS NEW INTERCEPTOR VESSEL similar vessels the coast guard received in 2012 under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) set up between the Barack Obama administration and a number of Caribbean countries, in 2009. The purchasing of the vessels began in August 2015 as part of the United States Secure Sea Programme, a component of the CBSI. Speaking at the handing over ceremony last Monday at the Coast Guard Base in Villa, United States Ambassador for Prime Minister Dr. Ralph H.E. Linda Tagliatela, USA Barbados and the Ambassador for Barbados Gonsalves spoke to and the Eastern Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, growth of the Coast highlighted the commitment Linda Tagliatela said Guard and promised that through the to work together to ensure further improvement in CBSI, “we have all a safe Caribbean. its capacity. committed to working together …. through

by KENVILLE HORNE close cooperation and shared responsibility particularly on THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES transnational security issues we can Coast Guard has received a new 33ft help ensure a safe and secure Defender Class Safe Interceptor vessel Caribbean. ….These vessels serve an from the United States of America. important role in helping your nation The acquisition complements two to secure its maritime borders and

contribute to the overall regional security.”

Since the launch of CBSI, the USA has contributed over US5 million dollars in direct bilateral assistance to SVG to reduce illicit trafficking and increase public safety.

Commissioner of Police (Ag.), Collin John, in his address, recognized the challenge of ensuring safe borders, and gave the assurance that with its research and intelligence reach, the police is committed to see that the country is properly manned and secure. He thanked the government and people of the Unites States for their generous donation, and promised that the vessel will be used for its intended purpose.

Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in giving the feature address, expressed gratitude for the assistance, and pointed to the fact that the coast guard has grown over the recent years, both in terms of equipment and personnel.

The Prime Minister stated that, “SVG has a lot more sea to cover than land. And we have to be very well equipped, and we work in this regard with the Regional Security System (RSS) and with our friends

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

particularly with the United States, Britain, but also Canada, France and Holland.”

He proffered that one of the ways St. Vincent can assist the United States, “is to have a better equipped coast guard to protect the borders.”

In that light, Dr. Gonslaves highlighted that the RSS is served by two C26 aircraft which assist with security on the seas.

“Just in case those who are trafficking in arms, illegal drugs, trafficking in persons, any terrorist.. we want them to know that even when they do not see the C26 aircraft, it’s there and they can see them (the traffickers). It will be advisable that they try and stay away from us because we are not a backward banana republic; we do things in some sensible manner to protect ourselves, our way of life and our civilization,” Gonsalves declared.

According to the Prime Minister, SVG is the only RSS country - the OECS and Barbados - to have received a third safe boat.

Further improvement in the SVG Coast Guard’s complement of vessels is expected in October, when it is expected to take ownership of a refurbished offshore patrol vessel.

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