The Vincentian Pages 30-12-22

SMSS students awarded for good work

By Gloriah...

A NUMBER of students of the St. Martin’s Secondary School (SMSS) began their Christmas vacation on a high note. This, after they were awarded at a ceremony held at the Catholic Pastoral Centre on Thursday, 8th December, 2022, during which students were awarded for excellence in academic and nonacademic fields during the 2021-2022 academic year.

Eligible students turned up with their parents/guardians and were celebrated and serenaded by the Awards Committee of the SMSS.

Academic awards came under the following headings: Principal’s Award for students who had attained the Dean’s Honour Roll for all three

Terms with Forms 1 and 2 receiving an average in excess of 80%, Form 3’s in excess of 75%; and Forms 4 and 5 in excess of 70%. Among these honorees were: Johanni Quashi-Browne, Jofari Ash, Jaheim Jack, Desray Samuel, Alexander Cummings, Bashar Abu-eid and Devanta Dasilva, of which the final three listed achieved their percentages for all term and exam grades.

The CSEC Performance Award was given to the students who attained at least 9 subjects at their external exams: Alex Chahda, Aberdean Williams, Amari Charles, Javantice Friday, Tyrese Connell, Aeden McLean, and Tamal Walters. Non-academic awards

were presented for sporting disciplines of Football — Malachi McMaster; Athletics — J’mar Saunders; and Swimming — Matthew Ballah. There were also awards for Performing Arts to students heavily involved in performing activities internally and externally. These went to DeAndre Simmons and Calique Lewis for music and drama in their representation of the school at the Junior Soca Monarch and Junior Calypso competitions in 2022.

Additionally, there was the Good Citizen Christian Brother Award for outstanding service to the school and community in line with the Good Citizens characteristics of: obeying rules; respecting

authority; contributing to school and community in various ways; exhibiting a love for his school; is courteous and respectful to others, trustworthy and honest, tolerant, and accountable; has moral courage and selfdiscipline, and is responsible. This went to Rorlando Mornix.

The Deportment Award to students who carried themselves well with uniform always tidy and aligns with the school rules including pants, shoes, belt and hairstyle, went to Joshua King and Rorlando Mornix.

The Attendance and Punctuality Award was presented to students who were never absent or late for the entire school year. Recipients

were: Govyron Pope, Tyler Richards, Ike Prescod, Joshua Murphy, Jordon Mason and Leo Vaughn. These students have all been great examples

for their colleagues and this current school will reveal those who have forged a path to fit into their shoes or even reach for greater achievement.

Fourth Former Rorlando Mornix received three awards: Good Citizen, Deportment and St. Martin’s De Porres Awards.

Hairouna Hope showing, ÂPeople still careÊ

CHILDREN FROM THE COMMUNITIES OF OVERLAND,Sandy Bay Point, Owia and Fancy in the North Windward section of mainland St. Vincent, enjoyed additional gifts for the Christmas season.

They were treated to a day of caring and sharing compliments Hairouna Hope — a non-profit organisation operating here since about 2018.

With support from civic minded individuals, other institutions and discounts from the commercial sector, Hairouna Hope channelled a “people’s effort” directed at bring cheer and tangible benefits to children.

Students aged four to twelve, from schools in the referenced communities, benefitted from the group’s generosity at an event that took place at Owia Salt Pond Recreation Site, on Thursday, December 22.

In addition to gifts and snacks, the students were treated to face painting and fun in a bouncing castle.

Dr. Conrad Nedd, a medical practitioner and driving force behind the Hairouna Hope, described the exercise as a “people effort for people,” adding, “we try to bring them a little joy, something to remember,” especially for those children who were displaced as a result of the volcanic eruption.

His medical and spiritual foundation gives him a sense of concern for fellow human beings and Dr. Nedd declared, contrary to what obtains in the main, that “people still care,” and “their (children) well-being is important.”

He underlined that Hairouna Hope was not a

religious organisation, but that the understanding was that “every persons has a spiritual aspect to their life.

“When we fail to tap the spiritual aspect of children’s life, they are more likely to become deviant,” Dr Nedd explained.

One student - Ozil Bowens of the Fancy Government School — was pleased with the packages he received. His Grade Four class of 11 was among the number who delighted in the affair.

A resident, 26-year-old Meliesha Browne, followed the event with a close eye on her four-year-old son, Remol Richards.

This is the second year that children from this area have been treated by Hairouna Hope.

Besides the obvious gifts, children were exposed to guidance lessons provided by adults who

Reaching into our communities

across mainland St. Vincent, to spread some Christmas cheer outside of their usual comfort zone.

This year’s initiative, organized by Shane Cadogan and Khyle Browne, was focused on the rural communities in the Windward and Leeward districts over 2 days, Thursday Dec. 22 and Friday Dec. 23.

THERE IS AN OLD SAYING THAT ‘IT TAKESa community to raise a child’ and St. Vincent should be happy to know that this noble ideal lives on in our youth.

The ‘Gen Y’ group of young men, known for their ‘Wet Men Charity Football 2020’ and ‘Browne’s Initiative 2022’ took to various communities

While the group did share some much enjoyable treats during the visits, the real giving was the precious gift of time. Time was spent in community shops, village liming spots, traditional sidebars and anywhere where two or three were gathered.

The value of the interactions came through the exchange of experiences, motivational tips and real life stories while breaking bread.

Through this outreach exercise, the Gen Y group, comprised of university students, budding entrepreneurs, local

artistes and athletes, met and bonded with over 50 children and young adults, creating a lasting impression on all involved and in a spirit of hope, peace and goodwill.

(Source; Gen Y)

Khyle Browne (foreground) and Xaria Young (right) sharing a cake sponsored by Bickles and engaging in conversation

surrendered their time to ensure the event was a success. (WKA)

Photo Credit: Gen Y

It’s snack time!! Students join the queue to make sure they get their share.

Face painting was popular with the students. Don’t they make a pretty sight?

Dr. Conrad Nedd helps a pre-schooler organise his goodies.

Team of young men gathered with village residents sharing cake and spending time together.

‘Mama Joy’ sharing out slices of cake to children of Chateaubelair. Cake sponsored by Bickles.

Members of the Gen Y (L-R) Kennie Montana, Rosik Mason, Shamar Thomas, Xaria Young, Khyle Browne, Isaiah Rodney, Shane Cadogan.

with folks in Sandy Bay.

Violent offences top prison count

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

WHILE THE STATISTICSmight fluctuate from time to time, offences of burglary, wounding, robbery, rape, possession of unlicensed firearms and/or ammunition, attempted murder, manslaughter and aggravated burglary also continue to be significantly high among those within the prison system here.

But, according to statistics presented by Superintendent of Prisons Timothy Hazelwood at the close of the Criminal Assizes on December 19, 2022, the 97 men and 3 women behind bars in connection with murder offences, accounting for close to 30 percent of the prison population, which stood at 388, including 12 women, as of December 19, making it (murder) a dominant feature of the offences.

At the close of the previous sitting of the Assizes on July 22, 2022, statistics showed there was a total of 404 inmates behind bars, including 13 women, and 101 prisoners, including three women, were there in connection with murder offences.

The December 19 statistics showed that 52 men and two women were serving sentences for murder, 40 men and one woman awaiting trial and five men were on remand. No women were on remand.

The July 22 figures showed 48 men and two women serving sentences for murder, 48 men and one woman awaiting trial and five men and no women on remand.

Burglary was next in line with 29 men serving sentences and four men on remand. None were awaiting trial.

No women were imprisoned in connection with that offence.

Those figures represented a decrease compared to

the July 22 statistics which showed 34 men doing time for burglary, seven on remand and none awaiting trial.

The December 19 figures reported that 24 men and two women had received sentences for wounding, five men were awaiting trial while three were on remand. No women were on remand or awaiting trial, in connection with that offence.

The previous statistics showed 27 men and two women doing time for wounding, five men awaiting trial and ten on remand.

Forty-six (46) men were doing time for possession of unlicensed firearms and/or ammunition as of December 19, compared to 40, as reported in the previous statistics. No women were behind bars in connection with firearm and/or ammunition possession.

As of December 19, 25 men were serving sentences for robbery, the same figure recorded in the July 22 report.

Twenty-three (23) were doing time for rape and 18 for unlawful sexual intercourse as of December 19, compared to the July 22 statistics of 18 doing time for rape and 18 for unlawful sexual intercourse.

However, while the July 22 figures showed that nine were on remand on charges of unlawful sexual intercourse, the figures of December 19 showed only two on remand in connection with that offence. Nobody was awaiting trial for rape or unlawful sexual intercourse.

As of December 19, thirteen men and four women were serving sentences for manslaughter, compared to 12 men and five women doing time for that offence according to the July 22 report.

The December 19 report showed that ten men

Man charged with stealing medical marijuana

Nickie is also charged with entering the dwelling house of Merland French, the watchman at Green Lava, and at the time had with him a weapon of offence, to wit, a gun.

had received sentences for aggravated burglary while one was awaiting trial. The July 22 report showed the same numbers.

As of December 19, eight men were serving sentences for theft, six for indecent assault, five for damage to property, five for possession of controlled drugs, four for drug trafficking, three for intent to commit an offence, two for assault, two for deception, one for abduction, two for escaping lawful custody, one for attempted rape, one for attempted robbery, one for kidnapping, one for criminal trespass, one for forgery, and two for breach of bonds.

Two women were serving sentences for possession of controlled drug, and one for deception.

As of December 19, there were 13 males between the ages of 16 and 21 either serving, awaiting trial, or on remand. There were 46 between the ages of 22 and 25, 58 between the ages of 26 and 29, 82 between the ages of 30 and 35, 47 between the ages of 36 and 39, 86 between the ages of 40 and 49, and 40 over 50 years old.

Three hundred and two (302) of these were serving sentences, 49 awaiting trial, and 25 on remand.

There was one woman between the ages of 16 and 21, four between the ages of 22 and 25, three between the ages of 26 and 29, one between the ages of 30 and 35, one between the ages of 36 and 39, two between the ages of 40 and 49. Eleven of these were serving sentences, and one awaiting trial, No women over 50 years old were behind bars.

Ex-manager for High Court trial

REYNOLD

Nickie has been charged with entering the storeroom of the Green Lava Lab in Vermont, as a trespasser, and stealing 53 kilos (116.8 pounds) of marijuana, valued at EC$214,650, the property of Green Lava Lab Ltd.

Nickie has been further charged with possession of a homemade firearm, make and serial number unknown.

In addition, he is charged with discharging a firearm at Merland French.

All four offences were reportedly committed in Vermont on December 5, and are said to be connected.

The charges were laid indictably, and therefore Nickie was not required to plea when he appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday.

The Prosecution did not object to bail, and Nickie was granted $2,500 bail with one surety on the condition that he report to the Vermont Police Station on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. He was also ordered not to contact the virtual complainant.

Nickie was initially ordered to report to the Vermont Police Station only on Mondays, but Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne kept the bail amount at a reasonable level and varied the reporting conditions after Nickie complained of having a diabetic related foot issue which had to be attended to on a regular basis.

When the Magistrate inquired from the Prosecution earlier about the possibility of Nickie being granted bail on his own recognizance, so as to ensure that Nickie gets the medical care he needs, Prosecutor La Fleur Samuel said the Prosecution would prefer if Nickie was granted bail with a surety, as the charges were serious, and that the marijuana was a sizeable amount.

The Magistrate agreed and told Nickie that he would have to find a surety.

A Preliminary Inquire (PI) is slated for January 31.

Roberts 40, originally of Richland Park,

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne committed Roberts to stand trial on all three charges, at the conclusion of a Paper Committal Proceeding at the Serious Offences Court last week.

The body of Roberts’ wife, at the time a Family Court Counsellor, was discovered in the back seat of her Nissan Skyline car P6158 around 9 a.m. on May 1, 2022.

Reynold Roberts

The woman who was 42, is said to have suffered injuries. Her vehicle was parked in the vicinity of the Buccament Secondary School in the Central Leeward constituency.

Her husband was subsequently charged with the murder and first appeared at the Serious Offences Court on May 4, 2022.

However, less than one week after, Roberts was additionally charged with, that on May 1, 2022, he stole and carried away another woman without her consent, and that he unlawfully, and without her consent, had sexual intercourse with that woman without her consent, and that he knew that she did not consent or was reckless as to whether she consented on not.

Attorney Grant Connell represented Roberts on all three charges at the Paper Committal Proceeding.

ROBERTSof Harmony Hall, who was a former manager of the Magarita Ville Hotel, Cayman Islands, has been committed to stand a High Court trial for the murder of his wife, Luann Roberts, reported to have occurred one year and seven months ago.

has also been committed to stand trial for the kidnapping and rape of another woman.

JIMMY NICKIE, a 38-year-old Vermont man who stole a sizeable amount of medical marijuana from the storeroom of the Green Lava Lab in Vermont, appeared in Court on Wednesday after being slapped with four charges.

Jimmy Nickie, apparently unable to raise waits with a police officer who will escort him to the remand facility.

Retired Vincy nurse celebrates 73rd bÊday

and

by Nelson A. King US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

STATING THE ALL-TOO-FAMILIARcaution that “tomorrow, or the next minute, is not promised to anyone”, the three children of retired, Vincentian-born, registered nurse Lorna David collaborated in celebrating their mother’s 73rd birthday in grand style, on the night of Dec. 16, at the elegant Glen Terrace on Avenue M in Brooklyn, New York.

Nelica, 55, Kimberly, 47, and Kiswana, 33 — said they were very eager to host their mother’s 73rd birthday gala rather than wait for another possible milestone. They had asked guests to wear African attire — the vast majority of whom obliged.

Celebrating while she is still here

“It’s a pleasure to be able to give my mother what she deserves,” Nelica, the eldest daughter, told the ceremony, comprising many of Lorna’s former nursing colleagues, friends and community supporters, as well as Lorna’s three grandchildren — Kiana, 25, Kiara, 19, and Khamani, 14.

“Seventy-five is not promised to anyone,” added Nelica. “We’re going to celebrate her birthday each and every year.”

Kiswana, the youngest daughter, who has followed her mother’s footsteps in becoming a registered nurse, told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards that it was “a celebration to remember.

“No year is promised to anyone,” she stressed. “Seventy-five isn’t

promised; so, why not celebrate her 73rd while she’s still here with us?

“We did it because we wanted to make sure that every birthday that passes is a special moment to remember,” Kiswana added.

“I felt great because she’s still here with us, and she’s an amazing mom for all the struggles she went through raising three kids and her grandkids,” Kimberly she told THE VINCENTIAN.

“She did a tremendous job, and it was an overdue celebration for being such a terrific mom,” she added. “And I love her dearly, very much.”

Nelica, said, “As a single parent, she went above and beyond to give her children the best she could afford. Not only did she take care of her children, but she also took care of her mom.”

(Lorna’s mother, Elista David, of Belmont, bordering the Marriaqua Valley in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, died eight years ago at 88).

“She also helped me to raise my two daughters,” Nelica added. “If I can give her the moon, I will.”

Others sing praises

Erlene Williams-King, a Vincentian community worker in Brooklyn, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies, told the ceremony that Lorna is not only her relative but also a “great friend”.

“Lorna has been loyal,” she said. “We share the same hobby (going to the casino). Lorna is the real thing, the real stuff.”

Guest Debbie

Cyrus said Lorna is “a friend to most, a confidant.”

Another unidentified guest told Lorna: “We love you. Thank you for being genuine, thank you for being honest.”

Amid the jamming of Caribbean and other vibes by Vincentian DJ Hailes Castello, Vincentian calypsonian Cyril “Scorcher” Thomas, a former diplomat entertained guests with some of his popular hits, such as “Party Fever”, “Sweetness is My Weakness” and “Come St. Vincent”.

“I thought it (birthday celebration) was fantastic,” Thomas said. “I love the traditional African outfits that gave the celebration an African flavour, and the family in particular. Lorna and her daughters had some elegant outfits.”

Trinidadian singer Hilton Samuel also serenaded Lorna with a medley of songs for the season.

Teacher, police, banker, nurse

Lorna migrated to Brooklyn from St. Vincent and the Grenadines in January 1981, resided in the borough until 2018, when she moved to McDonough in Henry County, Georgia.

She told THE VINCENTIAN that she began teaching elementary schools in St. Vincent and the Grenadines at 16, teaching for seven years at her native Belmont, then at Belair and Calder Government Schools.

She said she had one class to becoming a registered nurse in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, when she got pregnant with Kimberly in 1974.

In the interim, Lorna said she

successfully completed the police exam and was pursuing police training in neighboring Barbados, when the nursing authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines requested that she return to complete her nursing education. But, she said, the then Commissioner of Police - Ben Jacksonrefused to let her go.

On her return to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, she served for four years as a constable, before migrating to New York.

In New York, Lorna worked as a baby-sitter for two years, then pursued business management studies at Borough of Manhattan Community College while working at Chemical Bank for 10 years, rising from a teller to customer service representative.

But her passion to return to nursing heightened while working at Chemical Bank and in evenings and on weekends, she pursued studies in nursing at Brooklyn’s Medgar Evers College, graduating as a registered nurse in 2001.

There began a 20-year career in nursing, during which Lorna worked at several medical facilities in New York, namely Wyckoff Hospital, Downstate Medical Center and University Hospital, Visiting Nurse Association of Brooklyn, and Center Light Health Center — all in Brooklyn; and the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in lower Manhattan.

Her place of employment before retirement was at Center Light Health Center.

Lorna said she was “very grateful and thankful to God” to reach 73.

“As far as I know, I’m in good health and have a sound mind,” she told THE VINCENTIAN. “I’m very grateful because lots of people don’t live to reach that age.

“Also, my children show me how much they appreciate me,” she added. “They have been there with me. I grow with them, and they grow with me. There’s not a day that they don’t communicate with me.”

As for retirement, Lorna said it has been “great”, adding: “I sleep when I want to and wake up when I want to.”

Story

photos

Lorna David makes grand entrance.

Hilton Samuel serenades Lorna David with songs befitting the season. Lorna David, centre, with her children and grandchildren.

Police investigating discovery of bodies

POLICE HEREsaid that they have mounted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Sabaka Clarke, a forty-four (44) year-old man of Rose Place, Kingstown.

Clarke’s body was discovered by his brother around 9:40am on Wednesday, 28 December 2022, in bushes in the vicinity of Nine Steps, Rose Place. A postmortem examination is expected to be carried out on the deceased to ascertain the exact cause of death.

And police have also reported that they have begun an investigation after

the discovery, on the same day, December 28, of a decomposed body in Simon, Biabou.

The investigation is being handled by officers assigned to the SouthCentral Division,

The deceased’s identity is yet unclear.

In a related matter, investigations are said to be ongoing into the discovery of what is suspected to be human remains.

The discovery was made earlier this month by a construction worker in Kearton’s Hill, Barrouallie.

Initial indication, though still unconfirmed, was that teeth and the remains of a skull were discovered.

Following a visit to the site by aa representative from the Forestry Department, official reports were made to the Barrouallie Police Station and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

When the police visited the site, additional work was done, leading to the discovery of more remains.

And while the police have stated that it is too early in the investigation to determine whether the remains were those

of a human, some residents of Barrouallie are already speculating that it might be those of a a missing man known as “Bag Hair”.

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Failing to manage the crime situation

ONE WOULD HAVE PREFERRED to be addressing more uplifting issues as we wind down to the end of another calendar year. However, there is no escaping the fact, the truth in all its wholesomeness, that we have had a record number of homicides (42) for the year as of Thursday 29th December, 2022. That is 42 too many in a 150 square mile land mass and among 110,000 people.

Not so long ago, the Prime Minister, who is also National Security Minister, told us that the gun-related crime prevalent in our midst, was confined to a few miscreants, a section of misguided youth who wanted to play out their masculinity with a show of fire power.

Then the Commissioner of Police graced us with the assessment that much of the violent crime — especially gun related — morphed out of a tussle among gangs (a turf war of sorts), a social phenomenon that the Prime Minister had gone to pains to convince the nation did not, in a strictly definitional manner, exist in this land.

No sooner had the inked dried on the Commissioner’s pronouncement then up came the Prime Minister/National Security Minister with an assessment —perhaps founded on the intelligence available to him, he didn’t say — that much of the crime here had to do with the trafficking and/or transshipment of cocaine, for which this country had become labelled on bioth sides of the Atlantic.

All in all, what the three ‘reasonings’ had in common, though none might have said it in as many words, is that the killings in the main, were targeted killings that did not affect the broad landscape of society.

Well, well. Tell that to the lady retiree who resides in a community on the outskirts of Kingstown. Tell her that it is safe to leave her home at 7:00 in the evening to attend a prayer meeting.

Tell the young couple that it is safe to take a “lover’s stroll” under the light of the moon.

The truth is, no amount of plastering the sores will undo the damage that the record number of homicides, the weekly incidences of bodily harm and assault have wrought on the sense of safety among the wider population.

And we haven’t even touched the discomfort with which farmers take to resting their heads at nights, not knowing if their crops and/or livestock

would be where they left them the evening before.

The cloak of crime that hovers over this small society is like a deep stain on our once peace-loving multi-island state.

As a result, there are simply areas, communities in this state in which those who live in other areas, will not be seen period!

No amount of “spinning” the reality, at which some of us are so adept, can take away the fact that the increasing brutality by which the murders are being committed and the brazenness of the criminal elements in doing so, whether it be in the heart of the capital, victims’ homes, in open lanes and streets, in the hills far removed from habitation, continues to strike ever-increasing fear in the hearts of law-abiding citizens.

Repeated calls, throughout the year, on the Government and the Police Force to arrest the crime situation were met with empty assurances, as proposals to stem crime certainly have simply not worked.

Instead it seems, the instruments that we expect to be used in arresting the crime situation are instead turned on the people, when they choose to exercise their democratic right to protest.

The homicide figure reflects an abject failure in crime management, infected it seems by a blatant ‘turning a blind eye’ to the real players in this ordeal. Whether the latter is a policy, command or hesitation to act, the resulting attitude amidst this overall failure to effectively confront crime in any other dispensation would not expect both the National Security Minister and the Police Commissioner to keep their jobs.

And the worrying thing is that the ruling regime would have us believe that in the interest of good governance, its leaders are being held to a higher standard than others; that much more is demanded of them.

But given that the two highest murder rates (2016, 2022) occurred under this regime, it begs the question, what exactly is the higher standard when no one has been held accountable for the spiralling crime situation?

To effectively manage our crime situation requires decisive leadership, political will and courage.

The tragic observation is that each day the ruling regime remains unmindful of this social disease, the more the criminals feel they are getting a daily gift.

Comments on the Budgeted Revenue Estimates

AS OFTEN AS WE SEE AND HEARthe term, they are still worthy of a definition if for no other reason than we tend to forget.

“Taxes on Income and Profits” - Taxes individuals and businesses pay on earnings; “Taxes on International Trade and Transactions” - Customs Duties and VAT; “Non-Tax Revenue” - Fees, Licenses, Rent, permits, etc.

So, let’s start with “Taxes on Income and Profits”. This one is easy, but it would be helpful to know how much of this is taxes from income earned. Mr. Finance Minister, many of your critics, like to say, “...we pay so much in direct taxes to the government and get so little in return.” This is a chance to mute those critics so let’s have it. What is the estimated Personal Income Tax this year? Tell us how much of our earned wages or salary is collected in taxes each year. This information might change the conversation in your favour, especially if you outline how much less you are collecting this year because of the increase in the standard deduction allowed. All workers can keep this money, making it available to spend on inflation-related price increases.

Next, we have “Taxes on International Trade and Transactions”. Now, I hope I am correct that these are the taxes collected at the port of entry. Again, I cannot help with this information, but it will be helpful to show how much the changes in the tax policy are saving the working man. How much is the government collecting from non-essential goods versus the luxury items imported annually. How the changes approved in parliament a few weeks ago are benefiting the working class. I fully support any tax reduction that helps the working class offset by an equal or more significant tax increase on luxury items. So, let’s see it.

Then comes the “Non-Tax Revenue”. I assume these are fees, fines, and forfeitures like (vehicle and drivers licenses, building permits, fees for the use of government facilities like community centers, parks, and playgrounds, and parking revenues from the two parking lots, etc.). Is this where we also account for the head-count revenue from the cruise ship passengers? I am just asking because if Tourism is truly a focus industry in its

infancy, maybe we should know how much revenue we estimate from cruise ship passengers’ arrival this year to establish a benchmark. I can see the number will be relatively low today and under normal circumstances and does not merit a separate line item. However, it could be a point of pride if/when the numbers grow beyond your critics’ expectations in a few years.

Please tell me that you are no longer including revenues collected from the lease or sale of land to foreign nationals in your annual operating revenues. It is still a bad idea. If you are, however, how much are you estimating the government will collect this year, and is it more or less than you did this year? A global recession is more real today than it was a year ago. The US Treasury yield is now about 3.7% on the 30-year bond and is expected to go up some more. Despite the housing shortage, housing starts continue to go down. All we need to know for this discussion is the higher the interest rate, the slower the recovery.

Now back to your estimates, what are the Actual Estimated Revenues for this year? Only you can provide the details, but using the first three quarters of the current fiscal year as a guide, my estimates for this year’s revenue will be at least $100 million below budget. Therefore, your estimated revenues for next year are about 25% higher than this year’s actuals. Now I do not mean to be cynical, but with this high increase in your estimates you owe us a more detailed explanation. Where do you anticipate these revenue increases will come from next year? What happened this year or will happen next year to make this possible?

In addition, you projected a $50 million deficit last year, and with a projected increase in revenues, you are still budgeting a deficit of somewhere around $10 million. Why is this acceptable, with an anticipated revenue increase of 12% over last year’s budget or 25% over the previous year’s actual revenue?

The government cannot continue to budget to spend more than it’s collecting

Horatio.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

THIS IS THE TIME of year when special emphasis is placed on appreciating all of the blessings the Lord has given us.

As we all know, this has been a year of great challenges and, for some of us, horrible tragedies. But through it all, this is

a time for us to reconnect with God, our families, friends and neighbors.

For those with heavy hearts at this time, please remember that for every drop of rain that falls, a new flower will grow. Your neighbors understand and share

your sadness and sorrow and we pray for you and your loved ones.

Here’s what I have learned this year:

* Always stay humble and kind;

* Don’t hold a grudge;

* Pull people up and help the next person behind you;

* Hold the door open even when the person

you last did that for appeared not to appreciate it;

* Be grateful for the blessings we have been given;

* Listen more than you talk;

* Get 20 minutes of sunshine on your eyes;

* Do something kind for someone, every day. I personally thank all

of you. And you know who you are, for the trust you have placed in me. It has been an honor and a privilege to have worked, laughed and even cried with you.

To all, I wish a Merry Christmas and say, keep smiling!

What I have learned World Cup 2022: A memorable final Consumers in the Âdog houseÊ

“IS IT BECAUSEwe are into critical times, difficult to cope with, why the manmade rule is almost null and void?”

Consumers are in the ‘dog house’. As it were, they are far from being the ‘boss’.

Workers in business places have no regard for the fact that it is the consumer on whom they are dependent for patronage in order for them to receive a salary. With the rise in the cost of transport, one would have thought business would be conducted in the swiftest way possible, but this is not so. People seeking service are ordered to return two or three times for service that should have been conducted in a few hours.

Workers do not care. Based on what is seen in some performances, they do not know the word initiative.

What is really going on? Consideration is not given to seniors as they brave the weather, face their fears and their health issues to ensure that their bills are paid on time so they can enjoy the service and prevent disconnections. They are often seen with tired faces and dejected looks as they change positions, enduring what it takes to beat the queue so that they would not have to return another time.

At times, your completed process is put on hold if one item requested is missing. Workers do not want to inconvenience themselves to search; consumers must suffer the consequence.

Are consumers bosses or are they confined to the ‘dog house’?

It’s always a matter of ‘first come, first serve’ to some people in society. This mentally is leading us to nowhere; all it does is cause chaos, confusion, hatred, unfinished business, and a lack of peace. Again, where is the initiative? Why can’t some think of other ways of tackling issues instead of throwing arms in the air and declaring nothing else can be done?

It is my humble, candid opinion that persons in authoritative positions receive a refresher course.

Some places strongly need a bit of fresh air. They need some fresh blood as it were. They need people who can work on an issue using other means and provide consumers with positivity and hope. If workers are not prepared to extend this type of service, I feel they should ‘give way’.

Mr. Editor, I seek your indulgence to move away from my favourite sport, cricket, and to say a bit on the recent football World Cup.

I have seen few World Cup finals in my time and I want to say that the 2022 final in Qatar was the best I have seen. (Yes. Mr. Caesar, I was able to see the World Cup live.)

One only had to check the teams on paper and you would have seen that man for man, the final in Qatar between Argentina and France was always going to be a memorable match, a clash of the Titans.

And we must remember that the people who contributed to making this World Cup and the final in particular an outstanding success, were the footballers.

Lionel Messi, after five attempts, finally got to the summit of world football. He has now cemented his place in football history.

But as much as Messi showed his class and helped his team dominate for most of the game, it was the skill and determination Kylian Mbappe that kept France’s hopes alive and made it a memorable final.

What was one show was football’s past (Messi) against football’s future Mbappe.

And though Messi, in my opinion, is the greatest footballer of this era and is among the greats, I don’t believe he is the greatest of all time. In that group ahead of him are players like Zidane, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Romario and Maradona, all of whom have been in World Cup winning teams. Then again, there is Pele a three times World Cup winner who

most pundits regard as the GOAT. I have no argument with that.

Congratulations to Argentina, well done to

France, Croatia and Morocco too.

Who knows, if Mbappe wins another World Cup or two, and he can play

at least three more World Cups, he will be in the GOAT conversation.

Charles, Edinboro

Paul from Jamaica

A time of respair to reflect and rejoice

Introduction

THE OLD TESTAMENT book of Ecclesiastes admonishes those of Christian faith, that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the sun. As this year 2022 comes to its end, we can proclaim that no truer words have ever been spoken, when we consider the year, our country has had, or even more significant the many occurrences over the last 2 years.

During this year 2022, our country experienced what can only be described as a “cooling off” period following a two-year period of convulsions that ranged from local disasters to global turmoil. This prompted our beloved Comrade Ralph to pen his latest publication “A Time of Respair: Beyond COVID, Volcanic Eruptions, Hurricane Elsa, and Global Turmoil, which now represents an oft repeated theme. It is traditional in SVG that our citizens fellowship on December 31 every year in thanksgiving to God for his mercies through the year and this year will be no different. Following on the admonition of the Old Testament prophet, we call on all Vincentians during this season or respair, to take some time to reflect on how far we have come post Covid-19, Hurricane Elsa and La Soufriere eruptions, and offer thanks to God for His blessings and saving grace.

A time of respair

It is unlikely that one would find this word in the dictionary, since it has been discontinued, however

Comrade Ralph chose to revive it because of everything that the word represents. This beautiful 15th century word which literally means “fresh hope”, describes a recovery, and return to hope after a period of despair, or convulsion to use the preferred term of our Comrade Prime Minister. It is undeniable that this year was a year of recovery in many ways for the sectors that suffered significant damage and destruction over the last 2 years. The Covid-19 pandemic caused enormous strain on economic activity, halting tourist arrivals which negatively impacted hoteliers and their workers, taxi operators, and other stakeholders in that industry. Businesses in agriculture and fisheries as well as other types of business suffered from not having the hotels and restaurants to sell to, brought on by the general slowdown in economic activity caused by the pandemic. The volcanic eruptions of 2021, wreaked further damage to agriculture, destroying crops and livestock, further deepening the challenges faced by our farmers across the country. The weight of the ash on the roofs of homes in the Red Zone destroyed many homes, and the heavy flows of lahars, damaged or destroyed homes as well as physical infrastructure. During this period where our country experienced many challenges, our government lead by the experienced Comrade was there to provide leadership that reassured us that we would get past this period.

During this year, the policy of the government in providing income support to farmers, fisherfolk as well

as more than 4000 families for a period of 6 months through the VEEP initiative, helped many Vincentians who suffer job loss. The repairing of more than 700 homes and relocating 27 families to a new community in Orange Hill is another example of the amazing recovery effort that continues following the period of severe upheaval for many. Over this Christmas season, the new Orange Hill community displayed Christmas lights as they embraced fresh hope during this time of respair, the hope that enables them to look to the future with belief of a better tomorrow. This should represent the attitude of all of us, having come this far from where our country was less than a year ago, through determination, hard work and our faith that always see us through, signaling our return to hope, after a period of despair.

Reflection and rejoice

To truly appreciate the enormity of the strides our country has made in our recovery effort, requires sober reflection of where we are compared to what could have been the other possibilities. Reflect for a moment on the fact that during the volcanic eruptions, approximately 20% of our country’s population was displaced requiring relocation to shelters and private homes from their communities in the Red Zone. Remarkably the evacuation was conducted safely, even with minor “hiccups”, with no injuries or death and without the mass confusion that characterized a similar situation during Hurricane Sandy in

Disappointing Budget Estimates 2023

THE BUDGET ESTIMATES2023 were both disappointing and underwhelming. The most notable part of the Budget Estimates 2023 is the lack of revenue created by the government. After all these years in office, the ULP regime has no revenue creating industries. There are no government-owned industries in our economy that create sustainable sources of revenue for the SVG Treasury.

A large amount of the EC$1.4 billion 2023 estimates is tax which amounts to EC$648.3 million. Taxes on income and profit are expected to rise by EC$8.3 million; taxes on goods and services are expected to increase by EC$20 million and taxes on international trade and transactions are expected to increase by EC$45.7 million in 2023.

These types of taxes on our people and businesses are huge amounts and can be very damaging to our economy and people. High taxes impoverish our

people. High taxes severely impact people as well as businesses, with the latter having its ability to invest in expansion reduced to zero. High taxes also limit people’s ability to spend and this means reduced sales for businesses and less money circulating in our economy and country.

The Other Receipts of EC$225.9 million is a big hole in the Budget Estimates 2023. Other Receipts illustrates the amount of revenue that government has failed to create which is needed to balance the budget. Other Receipts is essentially a joke expectation. It seems that the ULP regime hopes up to $225.9m will fall out of the sky into the SVG Treasury. It is wishful thinking and shows that the SVG government is lacking in revenue.

Next year will be tough. More businesses will be forced to close and this will make rates of unemployment and crime even higher. We can expect higher taxes and higher bills as the

ULP regime hunt around for money. Other Budget Estimate 2023 concerns are:

* The country’s debt as of September 30 has increased to EC$2.1 billion. It seems like debt is recklessly spiraling upwards out of control, rather than being prudently reduced;

* Debt service amounts to EC$282.9 million. It is a shame that so much money is being wasted on debt, rather than being invested in our people. This is a consequence of decades of poor financial management and the failure to create sustainable sources of revenue;

* And, funds owed to the Republic of China on Taiwan include the modern high court project (EC$6.8 million) and the hotel development project of EC$10.8 million. Why on earth do we owe even one dollar to Taiwan, when they fail to pay their fair share of tax?

The Minister of Finance is not a university graduate in finance and has

the USA. Too often, we can be guilty of taking many things for granted, and this may well be one such situation, because it was made to look easy. We reflect on the fact that quick and decisive actions by our government during the eruptions as well as during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic were key to protecting lives and livelihoods, even as we remember those who lost their lives to this very deadly virus. Our government acted in our best interest in securing assistance for the most vulnerable, provided income support to those affected, and acted to protect those on the frontlines. In all our challenges, we reflect on the fact that our faith, in concert with our works helped us through those difficult times to get to this period of recovery and repair.

There is a line in a very popular song that goes “when I think of Jesus and what He has done for me…I can dance”, a contemporary interpretation of the Psalmist David’s call to make a joyful noise unto the Lord all ye land. Together we stand on the cusp of a new year, where much potential and great promise await. We reflect on the year past with its challenges but also its many gains, where we as a people have come out better and stronger than ever before and move froward to build on the many successes of 2022. We can reflect on our accomplishments as a nation and rejoice as a people, rejoice with each other in thankfulness, and gratitude. As we say goodbye to 2022 and prepare to embrace 2023, let’s all reflect and rejoice during this time of respair.

been utterly hopeless in running the finances of SVG. After 21 years of financial incompetence, the ULP government is still teetering on the edge bankruptcy.

Poor financial leadership and a reliance on begging and borrowing have caused high taxes and a rise in unemployment, crime and poverty in our country. A shocking consequence of this is that many families have had their electricity and water cut off, as they could not pay the bills and put food on the table for their children.

SVG needs a strategy for success and that means going Green. A Green government would significantly boost revenue and create thousands of new jobs by taxing the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan and setting up an SVG tuna fishing and canning industry.

The Gift of a New Start.

Crime, Violence and the ULP

THERE ARE KEY PERIODS IN the year when persons are encouraged to pause and reflect on the progress (or lack thereof) that they have made over a particular period. Some persons use their birthdays to do the reflection. Others use anniversaries to introspect. Some may even set aside periods like the end of a year to look at where they have come from and determine the changes that may be required to achieve anticipated goals. And yet there are others who go through life not desiring to plan for the future at all. These persons may even comment that, “since the future is uncertain there is no need to plan for it; whatever is to happen will happen”. And while there is some truth in the statement that “the future is uncertain” we must consider such individuals irresponsible. We, all of us, must develop the discipline to set goals, determine what we want to achieve, and move in the direction of making them come through.

We are now at the end of 2022. What do you see when you look back? Most of us will see areas where we have made progress. This may take the form of academic achievements, or financial gains, or growth in relationships, or … the list goes on. Others will admit that the last twelve months ushered in some serious setbacks and, in some cases, defeat. For those who can readily identify with the latter, I draw your attention to the quotation that was used to usher in this article, “It is no disgrace to start all over. It is usually an opportunity.” Believe it! Let it soak in! Be re-energized, refocused and plan to do better in 2023. Resolve to do better in the New Year.

Some persons have an aversion to setting New Year Resolutions (and it is precisely because of that, that I omitted to include any reference to “New Year Resolutions” in this article’s title). But there is value in sitting down and committing, nay “resolving”, to pursue a particular path. It was the American naturalist and author John Burroughs (1837-1921) who penned the following words to encourage us along the path to achieving excellence, “Nothing relieves and ventilates the mind like a resolution.” Make the commitment. Tie yourself down to specific tasks and see where it leads. Better relationships can emerge. Outstanding academic results can be achieved. Creation and sustaining wealth can occur. Make the resolution … and let others know about it.

The last sentence in the preceding paragraph may “hit a chord”. There are some persons who would readily react by indicating that resolutions are meant to be private matters. And, indeed, some are. I have made some of those as I sought to improve my marital and childrearing relationships. Yes, I have set targets (made resolutions) in relation to those aspects of my life. Some will accuse me of being “very unromantic” and “calculating”.

And while they may be accurate in their assessment, I will readily rebut by indicating that we all do it to some degree or another. There is no harm in having such “personal resolutions” at all as we seek to improve various aspects of our lives. However, there are some resolutions that are better programmed for success when we make them public. It can give us that extra drive as persons hold us accountable to perform the tasks that we have indicated. Weight loss or increases in exercise schedules are areas that can benefit from such public resolutions. It is also useful in that the persons who are aware of our commitment can often be encouragers along the way. They can often see the progress and assist us in championing the positive changes.

Now, as we end one year and welcome another, why not use this changeover period to design and implement some beneficial resolutions? Don’t fall for the temptation to “make the mental resolution” (and not commit openly or in writing). Go the extra mile and be more systematic, more focused, more determined, in the approach with the intention that by getting to the point where you resolve to do better you programme yourself to greater success in achieving the goal. Nothing is wrong with that! I am further encouraged by the famous American philosopher, essayist, poet, and lecturer, Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) when he said, “A good intention but fixed and resolute – bent on high and holy ends, we shall find means to them on every side and at every moment; and even obstacles and opposition will but make us ‘like the fabled specter-ships,’ which sail the fastest in the very teeth of the wind.” Yes, set the goals, make the resolution and move in the direction of reaching noble goals.

If it is God’s will that we are still around this time next year, when we look back from where we have come, what are the grounds that we will like to cover in relation to our physical, social, emotional, spiritual or intellectual development? Now is the time to set out the plan, set the goals, make the determination to get to that point. Do not hope, or wish for the change. Plan it!

And put in the incremental steps that are required to get you there. It does not matter whether we are currently riding the clouds of success (in whichever field) or if we are presently deep down in the valley of despair. There are new opportunities awaiting us! There are new frontiers of success beckoning us forward! We can resolve to do better! We can do it!

We have the gift of a new year! We have the gift of a new start! Commence now with a good plan!

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

OFFERING HIS TAKE ON THEescalating problem of violent crime, especially homicides, PM Gonsalves said that his government had had all intentions to be tough on crime and the causes of crime. However, it does not have a magic bullet or wand to wish away the evil and reckless intentions of a section of our youth.

With three days left in 2022 and our 2016 homicide record of 40 scattered (the current number of homicides is 42), it would appear that PM Gonsalves has had a rebirth, an awakening as to the reality of crime and violence.

Who would forget PM Gonsalves incessant pleas while in opposition that the faces of crime, violence and drugs in St Vincent and the Grenadines were of James Mitchell and Randolph Toussaint?

It was cheap politics then to tar James Mitchell with responsibility for crime, violence and drugs. Gonsalves rode those wild charges to power in 2001. As with his views that his party will herald the rebirth of bananas, Gonsalves claimed that he was a man with the plan. The ULP promised a series of policies intended to be tough on crime and the causes of crime. Apart from the frequent recruitment of police officers, Gonsalves’ statements on crime have proven to be cheap talk and empty platitudes.

In the 22 years, he has been in power; there has been a steady increase in crime and violence. Homicides which take the lives of mainly young men, continue to climb. As is the case with global warming, which constantly rises, each year, citizens sit in horror and certainty that more and more of our young people will fall victim to gun violence. Worse, the killers are seldom caught.

The government’s failure has been in the fact that it does not take the issue of crime and violence seriously. Just as its prideful declarations about our bad roads, its anticrime fighting policies amount to sloganeering where the PM gets to make yet another of his long-winded, repetitive speeches. Today it’s pan against crime; tomorrow it’s sports against crime–nothing sustainable or thought out. In many ways, it gives the impression that something tangible is being done. In fact, it simply passes state resources to some supporters. To him and his band of clansmen, it’s another episode of a soap opera. They get to smile, and their dwindling band of supporters get to beg or touch the naked emperor. No empowerment, no consciousness-raising, and no attempt to draw young people and the wider population into the arduous task of nation-building. Hopelessness and helplessness breed dislocation and alienation. Generalised disconnect with society causes the young to develop a ‘don’t care’ attitude. When society offers few or no avenues for advancement, our citizens fall prey to corrupting habits. When community values break down mainly because our political leaders are the opposite of good examples, society goes into a wobble that leads downwards.

No society can survive, prosper or develop based on sweet words and empty rhetoric. Time and again, Plain Talk warned against scoring easy points when crime and violence take a dip. Once you crave the good, you are saddled with the bad.

What does it mean to tell the population that the spike in homicides has its genesis in a cocaine deal that went bad in 2016? The parents, family members and friends who have had to bury their loved ones could care less about the cause. Citizens want to feel safe, but the government offers nothing to soothe the fears of an increasingly nervous population.

Our people must come to the realisation that SVG is one of the most violent societies on the planet. We have more than 120 persons in prison who killed someone. Scores of prisoners are there for wounding, and close to 50 prisoners are incarcerated for raping and indecently assaulting our women and children.

Many of these crimes, especially murders, manslaughter and wounding, are crimes of frustration. They rarely display evidence of premeditation and planning. They are proof that too many of our young people are at wits end. They are all too often easily pushed over the edge.

Society has lost its way. The country’s high unemployment and under-employment situation make it exceedingly difficult for our young people to remain focused. They watch as the gap between the rich and the poor get more expansive. They are witness to the dwindling middle class. Many come from poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged families. They know the taste of hungry and the angry steer of poverty.

All too often, some of them try to beat the system at its nasty, corrupted game. They commit to getting rich quickly or die trying. As their villages and communities fall apart and lend little support, they bond with elements who offer them props, respect, a meal, and a dollar. It’s not much, but it’s more than the ruling elite offers.

If we fail to understand this harsh reality, we will never get a handle on crime and violence. Our homicide rate stands at 42. The homicide rate in Grenada, less than 100 miles to our south, is 9. What accounts for this damning contrast? And to think Grenada has neither a world boss nor 5 star general at the helm. It is clear that idle boasting is terrible policy, and bad policy is tearing our country apart.

In the same way that Gonsalves opportunistically wrapped crime, violence and drugs around the political neck of the then-governing New Democratic Party, citizens must hold the ULP administration accountable for the sad state of affairs regarding crime and violence. Vincentians have been lulled asleep by this administration on so many issues that we think of Trinidad and Jamaica when considering violent destinations. We failed to be mindful that we live in one of the most violent countries on the planet.

This reality is unacceptable. The government claimed it had answers. We, the people, must demand solutions. We must not allow the government to bring us to a point where we accept pervasive violence as normal. The time for excuses is over. They must be made to put up or shut up, deliver or made to take a hike. Their failure to deliver on so many issues is proof that Gonsalves and his clansmen have outlived their usefulness. They have, for some time now, become a burden on the nation. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

“It is no disgrace to start all over. It is usually an opportunity.”George Matthew Adams (18781962), USA newspaper columnist and author.

‘Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive!’ (Sir Walter Scott, 1808).

Have we forgotten who we are and our responsibilities?

WE VINCENTIANSon the 27th of October this year celebrated forty-three (43) years of being an independent state. In a few days time, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) led by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will celebrate its being in the control of the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for twenty-two (22) years. That is more than half of the period of our existence as an independent state.

It is reasonable to say, therefore, that what prevails in our country today would have been influenced by what the ULP under Dr. Ralph Gonsalves did or did not do, during their stint in management.

One of their very traitorous betrayals of the people’s trust was played out in the agriculture sector. It cannot be forgotten, that when in 2000 they had aggressively agitated for the removal of the NDP regime under the late James Mitchell, they fervently promised that they would have reinvigorated the Banana Industry and fix the Feeder Roads, on which all our farmers depend for economic sustenance. On the strength of those promises, they (ULP) had the strong support of the farmers on election day. How have the farmers been rewarded?

It is shocking that these agonies are experienced by farmers when the

individuals who have served in the position of Minister of Agriculture have themselves been raised in agricultural communities all their lives. What an opportunity they have lost to serve their people! Seemingly they are inspired by their “World Boss” to glory in their stage performances. They make existing promises to the farmers but in the end, they generate no progress. They leave the farmers having to support themselves “on their hoe-sticks”.

As was the case of the farmer from the volcanic red zone, he had sold the Ministry of Agriculture some foods in October and there he was on the 23rd of December seeking the payment which he needed to provide for his family.

It is really amazing to note the raw exhibition of disdain with which our present elected representatives have been treating the citizens who ultimately are burdened with the costs of providing dinners for the members of cabinet.

In his message to the nation this Christmas, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said …….

“Surely, this is a time of respair, of fresh hope after the recent years of convulsions, dislocations and even

despair among many, consequent upon the COVID pandemic, hurricane Elsa, the volcanic eruptions, storms alternating with droughts, and the knock-on effects of global turmoil including the wars in Ukraine and elsewhere”.

But it has been well known that prior to these disasters to which he referred, there has been documentation of approaches by the ULP in government that did not reflect motivation driven by a sincere interest in the welfare of the people, the citizens.

To impress the community of their sincerity, and that all their policies were pursued in good faith, Dr. Gonsalves and his team should not be averse to open discussions over the next several months, on issues of public interest.

The Prime Minister’s propensity for decorative oratory may have drawn

him back to the twelfth and thirteenth century to the word ‘respair’ to express the need for us to address the dire circumstances in which we Vincentians now find ourselves. It is to his honour that he is now clearly admitting that the socio-economic conditions in which we now find ourselves are totally unacceptable and could have to a fair degree, been significantly better if we had conducted our business with maturity.

For several years now, patriotic Vincentians have been expressing the view that we needed to correct our modus operandi to make it in harmony with the development needs of the society. The Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves in his Christmas message to the nation said,“…there are too many persons in our land who are still suffering hardship; too many faces of men and women are strained anxious for a variety of reasons. These we must address individually and collectively, in solidarity”. Well said Comrade Ralph!

The people and their Prime Minister seem now to be on the same page, he calls it ‘respair’ they call it ‘repairs’. Our New Year’s Project.

LeRoy Providence

Majority misrule

by ANTHONY G. STEWART, PHD

MAJORITY rule. Might is right. I am the ruler in Hairouna. When I speak no dog barks. You are to be seen and not heard. Stay in your lane. That is above your grade level. If I say or write anything, my family would be victimized. We are a country of men not laws. The party is supreme. Only the family. You are not an expert. Money can buy anything. Anything goes. I was divinely appointed to rule. I am above the law. You can go to whatever court you want but you must come back to Papa.

What are these markers telling us about the nature of the society in which we live?

Dictators and despots use every ounce of their charisma and imaginable means to perpetuate themselves in power despite the will of their people to the contrary. No fit individual is likely to survive this jungle and it is for this reason that manuals, rules, and laws were established. The protection of the weak, defenseless, poor and vulnerable is paramount.

The ten commandments are examples of laws established to bring order to an otherwise chaotic world. Some organizations have standard operating procedures in addition to manuals that guide their operations. Our own parliament has rules and our country has a constitution. Despite this however, some have apportioned unto themselves unlimited powers to make unlimited rules and apply them. They fail to realize that rules themselves must be limited otherwise they would be useless. Rules describe parameters and framework within which we may operate.

The Land acquisition Act becomes useless if the government can acquire any parcel of land for any purpose. The Act, if it is to be useful, limits the powers of the authorities in taking private lands. If the powers of the government are unlimited, it makes the Act useless. A law by its very

nature sets limits and parameters. The limiting factor in the Land Acquisition Act is public purpose. Public purpose is not a mysterious term only to be interpreted by greedy, unscrupulous, land grabbing interpreters of the law. As members of the Commonwealth headed by our King Charles 111, whose Privy Council we flee to for justice, we are well aware that public purpose means for the establishment of a road, playing field, cemetery, park, hospital, community center, and similar projects. Essential in the process is to convince the local population and the land owners of the public purpose of the acquisition. Acquisition of lands in Union Island and those of the Murrays do not meet this threshold.

Even in cases where acquisition is justified, negotiations for purchase with the landowners are in order. Secretly “confiscating” private lands is an abuse of power and should not be tolerated. Land surveyors should not trespass on private lands. If a survey is to be carried out, common courtesy dictates the notification of the landowners who share the boundaries. Surveyors too do not have unlimited authority and should operate within the boundaries of the law.

Land acquisition is a public act and in its execution the public should be adequately notified. To facilitate this, the local radio stations, social media, and the local newspapers can be utilized. In addition, a physical sign can be placed on the land itself. The government gazette may be insufficient to get messages across to the local population especially noting the high level of illiteracy in the country. This is with the assumption that the intention is not to secretly confiscate the lands.

We should be a country of laws. Let us operate within the boundaries of our constitution, laws, manuals, and rule books. In so doing, we order our society and protect the weak, poor, and vulnerable minority.

Tributes

Two Caribbean cultural icons leave the stage

IN THE SPACEof 12 days, the Caribbean and the Caribbean Diaspora were twice thrown into mourning with the passing of two cultural icons, par excellent exponents of the calypso art form.

Black Stalin, born Leroy Calliste, died at 81 on Wednesday 28th December and on Friday 16th December, Francine Edwards, better known as Singing Francine, passed away at age 79.

There is no questioning that each of the two has left an unmistakably indelible mark on the musical landscape of the Caribbean and the world.

Black Stalin

The report is that Black Stalin passed away peacefully at his residence in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago, on the morning of Wednesday 28th December, 2022.

He had been ailing since suffering a stroke in 2014 and in fact, had not taken the stage since that occurrence.

Unquestionably, Black Stalin had captured the hearts and the sensibilities of tens of thousands and created an aficionados base not restricted by geography and/or generations.

Born on September 24, 1941, in San Fernando, he became an icon of his birthplace and the country as a calypsonian, establishing himself as an unparalleled exponent of the calypso art form, biased unapologetically on behalf of the disenfranchised and oppressive peoples of the Caribbean and the world at large.

But before his advent into the calypso arena in 1959 and a career of 50 years and more that would form and inform his personality and reflect his convictions, Black Stalin was limbo dancer.

Between 1959 and 1961 he remained an unattached calypsonian, joining his first calypso tent, the Southern Brigade, in 1962, where he honed if not matched his craft and skill with the likes of Lord Melody, Lord Kitchener, Cypher and Blakie.

He had no sobriquet up to that time, very much against the trend

— and the story is told that he was given the name Black Stalin by Lord Blakie.

He made his mark with his 1969 ‘Immortal Message of Martin Luther King’ (popularly referred to ‘A tribute to Martin Luther King).

Black Stalin won the Trinidad and Tobago National Calypso Monarch Competition for the first time in 1979 with his ‘Caribbean Man’ and ‘Play One’.

He repeated that feat in 1985 (‘Ism Schism’ and ‘Wait Dorothy’), 1987 (‘Mr. Panmaker’ and ‘Bun ‘Dem’), 1991 (‘Look on the Bright Side’ and ‘Black Man Feelin’ to Party’) and 1995 (‘Tribute to Sundar Popo’ and ‘In Time’).

And in recognition of his dedication and contribution to calypso music and culture in Trinidad and Tobago, Leroy Calliste, Black Stalin, was awarded his country’s Hummingbird Medal (Silver) at the National Awards ceremony in 1987, and in 2008 was conferred an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies, St Augustine.

Such was the measure of the man.

Singing Francine

Impact was also the hallmark of Singing Francine who was born in Barbados on February 13, 1943 and came to Trinidad at a young age.

Her response to a question about how she began singing calypso was as impactful as it was ‘copied’ by other calypsonians. Her response that has resonated through the years: “I never became involved in the calypso art form. I was born into the calypso art form.”

Singing Francie was known,

throughout her career, to use her musical talent to address social issues, particularly those directly affecting women.

Most notably, in 1975, she sang “A Call to Women,” encouraging more women to use calypso music as a vehicle of self-expression, and in her 1978 calypso “Runaway,” she addressed the topic of domestic violence, urging women in abusive living situations to seek help.

Singing Francine was one of the most successful calypsonians in Trinidad and Tobago, winning the National Calypso Queen competition in 1972, 1973, 1981 and 1983.

Over the course of her career, she became an important figure in the development of not only calypso, but also parang.

In 1981, Singing Francine released the parang album “Christmas is Love,” which featured a blend of calypso, soca and parang sounds.

Her release of a number of Christmas hits, earned her the reputation as one of the best parranderos (parang singers) in Trinidad. Some of her classic parang songs included “Hooray, Hurrah”, “Parang Parang”, “I Love Christmas”, “Christmas is Love”, “Caribbean Christmas” and “Ay Ay Maria’.

Those who think these two calypso veterans have not enriched and influenced our lives one way or the other should return to their ‘thinking board’ and ask forgiveness.

May the two rest in eternal peace in the bosom of the Lord. (Sources: Various Caribbean media sources)

Prime Minister Mia Mottley on Singing Francine

Singing Francine will be deeply missed, but also deeply remembered for her many accomplishments and for the joy she brought to so many people through her music and social commentary. May her spirit rest in peace.”

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley on Black Stalin

“IT WAS THEMighty Sniper who very aptly said that “By calypso our stories are told”.

Very few bards told our stories more effectively than the Black Stalin. He was a master.

His passing leaves us poorer but his rich legacy of poetic calypso lyrics and haunting musical lines will all live on for our guidance and in his enduring memory. May we always remember his contribution.”

“IT IS NO STRETCHfor me to say that Singing Francine’s music is timeless, as I know all Barbadians will be familiar with her music, with the sounds of “Parang Parang” echoing throughout communities across the island during the Christmas period. I am certain her contributions to these genres will never be forgotten.

Francine ‘Singing Francine’ Edwards (1943 –2022)

Leroy ‘Black Stalin’ Calliste, DLitt – (1941 – 2022)

Nine nights of lights concludes

Movie night is becoming known as ‘the family night’.

by GLORIAH... Photo caption: SVGNPRBA

WHEN THE NINE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS festival concluded on Friday 23rd December, the general public would have been exposed to a robust agenda of activities that kept everyone entertained and in-tuned with the Christmas season.

The festival, which was celebrated under the theme, “A Botanical Garden Christmas”, was launched on Wednesday, 30th November.

The December 15 — 23 activities boasted the following programming: 15th — Opening Night; 16th — Movie Night; 17th — Caroling Night; 18th — Gospel Night; 19th — Dance Night; 20th — Vincy Moves and Band Night; 21st — Upstage Christmas Experience; 22nd — Pan Night; and 23rd — Closing Night.

Significantly, this year the Gardens boasted its largest number of lights, over 50,000 bulbs; and its largest coverage of lighting, over ten acres.

The organizing committee too, collaborated with outside entities to add particular aspects to its programme. The Upstage Calypso Tent featured in this regard with their unique Christmas experience and gifts giveaways.

The Youlou Pan Movement has been with the Nine Nights Festival for the past four years. Their fans add to the Garden spectacle with enthusiasm each year as they unfold their ‘Christmas on Steel’ activities.

For the first time this year, the Department of Culture collaborated to host a Caroling Night themed “Spirits Lifted”, in an effort to revive the caroling competition which was once a staple during the Nine Mornings period. Some twelve choirs took part. They were well-received with the audience challenged to do their own judging tallies.

‘Movie Night’ saw patrons gathered in families, laid out on the lawn to take in a ‘G rated’ movie. Gospel Night, celebrating the true spirit of the season, saw performances from local acts

including Janelle & Daniel Alexander, Xhael , Gary Miller, Niston Douglas, Jaheel Cruickshank, and Caywama Edwards.

Dance Night hosted groups like Avenue Dance Company, Diadem Dancers, Poetic Heart Dancers, SVGCCPAS, La Gracia Dance Company, Renaissance Dance Company, and the Girls’ High School.

The decorated pond – always the centre of attraction

Carolling makes a return to the overall Nine Morning Activities.

The Vincy Moves initiative graced the Gardens on 20th December, engaging the audience is an exciting brand of workout and offering prizes and snacks. The Bethel High School Band - K-Scope; The Ultimate 5 Jazz Band and the Jazz Tropical Project belted out Christmas in a variety of genres. Then, an invigorating faceoff between Sion Hill ‘X-Pan’ and ‘New Haven Drummers’ saw the audience declaring X-Pan winners.

The Closing Night began with a number of addresses from concerned

individuals and featured returning acts. If the truth be told, a survey of patrons will unveil a total satisfaction with the 2022 Nine Nights of Lights presentation.

To express appreciation to its patrons, the Gardens was opened to the public on Tuesday, 27th and tonight Friday, 30th, making a movie available for

Nine Nights of Lights sings greets patrons with a ‘bang’ to their eyes.

family viewing.

Patrons are already looking forward to next year’s presentation.

Point Village cries out for competition

THE REGULARITY WITH WHICH Point Village has been champing the National Lighting Competition, has triggered a call

from one of its major contributors - Floret Daniel, for other communities to provide them with “some competition.”

The Point Village production, themed ‘Christmas on Point; We celebrating in Style’ and under the coordination of Daniel, captured the 2022 title, making it the tenth straight year it had done so, pushing Daniel to declare that they were a cut above the other entrants.

She fingered the other communities for their lack of passion and commitment.

“People are not taking the time out and put the effort in… Even at short notice we still put the effort in,” Daniel suggested.

According to Daniel, “Deslyn Daniel was the one who came up with the theme and we knew that we were going to make it ten years in a row.”

She reasoned, though, that it was their teamwork that made the difference.

The production team id comprise of three designers and five persons who tape the lights.

Daniel gave the assurance that Point was not ready to renege on their commitment, and stated boldly that come 2023, Point Village was once again going to be crowned National Lighting champions.

The Upper Entrance with its arch of lights.

A main section of the Point Village winning production.

Da Silva returns to winning ways

RETURNED to winning ways in the Best Lit Private Home category of the 2022 National Lighting Competition, making it her ninth title.

And, to add to her glory, Da Silva copped the Best Nativity Scene title.

Making full use of her theme, “The Joy of Christmas is celebrated with Biblical characters”, Da Silva was able to use thousands of lights effectively at her Cane End residence, to regain the title she surrendered last year to Jimmy Samuel.

In keeping with her theme, she featured five Biblical personages - King Herod, John the Baptist, Peter , Mary Magdalene and Zacchaeus - to tell her story.

Apart from the Biblical characters,

Second to Point Village in the 2022 edition was the Sion Hill Intersection, with Rose Hall Works placing third and Top Belair fourth.

On the way to retaining their national title, Point Village topped Zone Four ahead of Diamond Village and Owia in that order.

Winning Zone One was Rose Hall Works took Zone One with Rose Bank Village Square taking second and Layou at Velox Corner third.

Sion Hill Intersection topped Zone

Two, ahead of Town Hill, with Chauncey Junction and Vermont docking in third and fourth respectively.

In Zone Three, Top Belair was first, Richland Park at Davis’ Square was second, Biabou was third and Cotton Ground fourth.

Best Lit Garden Category

Villa Top Christmas Gardens located at the Hull’s Residence, with their theme ,’Christmas in Perspective’, topped that category. Second was the Recreational Park in Roseau and third- Richmond Hill Gardens.

Best Lit Commercial Building

Retaining the title of Best Lit Commercial Building was Coreas City Store. Their immediate neighboursJax Enterprises Ltd. was second and third was the Bank of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

When the VINCENTIAN visited her home on December 26, a welcoming Da Silva commented: “I am happy, I am excited, am elated, am thankful that I am back (to winning ways).”

Noting that it is “a Labour of Love “, something she enjoys doing annually, Da Silva related: “I am doing my best for the good of the community… I do it for the love of doing it … I just have a passion for it and people would come and visit me,” adding that she does most of the work involved in lighting her residence.

“All the planning is done by me, motivated by the Holy Spirit. I brain storm and put things in place, but in the putting up of the lights, I have to pay someone to do the high ones,” Da Silva disclosed.

She was especially pleased that she was able to brave the rains of November and present a winner display.

This was her the sixteenth occasion that she had entered the National

Lighting Competition having started in 2007, and pouching six successive titles, from 2016 to 2021.

Da Silva’s residence was also adjudged winner of Zone Three, with Jose Hooper of Ginger Village in second place and second overall.

Meanwhile, Carol Jardine of Georgetown was third overall and was the lone entrant in Zone Four. There was a three-way tie for fourth, involving Glenroy Pierre of Petit Bordel, along with Wayne Du Pont and Zachary Audain, both of Green Hill.

Pierre won Zone One, ahead of Wesley Mc Kie of Golden Grove and Everad Ince of Rose Bank in that order.

The Green Hill duo of Dupont and Audain was joint winners of Zone Two; Ann Jones of Questelles was second and Ianthe Cupid of Gun Hill- third.

Rounding up the other place was Elmore Browne of Carriere, who finished third in Zone Three.

MRS. OLIVIA DA SILVA

Da Silva utilized materials that she recycled to make up the “educational scenes” component of her presentation.

A front view of Olivia Da Silva’s lit residence, located at Cane End.

The winning Nativity Scene.

Another section of the Point Village production.

A section of the Villa Top Gardens

Football Legend Pelé dies at 82

Pele, the three-time World Cup winner passed away at a hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, surrounded by loved ones. h cancer.

Pelé was initially diagnosed with cancer in 2021, and had been in and out of medical facilities over the past year to help him fight it. But, sadly, his condition worsened recently … forcing him to spend the last two months in a hospital bed.

He was able, however, to watch the 2022 World Cup in his final days … and even penned a congratulations post on his social media page to Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe after the epic Argentina vs. France final last weekend.

He revolutionized the game

Pelé joined Brazil’s national team when he was just 16 years old … and won his first World Cup at age 17 in 1958.

He had gone to the 1958 World Cup in Sweden as a reserve, but became a key player for his country’s championship team.

His first goal, in which he flicked the ball over

the head of a defender and raced around him to volley it home, was voted as one of the best in World Cup history.

He went on to lead Brazil to two more World Cup titles, winning it all in 1962 and 1970.

Widely regarded as one of soccer’s greatest players, Pelé spent nearly two decades enchanting fans and dazzling opponents as the game’s most prolific scorer, with Brazilian club Santos and the Brazil national team.

His grace, athleticism and mesmerising moves transfixed players and fans.

He orchestrated a fast, fluid style that revolutionised the sport – a samba-like flair that personified his country’s elegance on the field and his energy, vision and imagination drove a gifted Brazilian national team with a fast, fluid style of play that exemplified “O Jogo Bonito” – Portuguese for “The Beautiful Game.”

The image of Pelé in a bright, yellow Brazil jersey, with the No. 10 stamped on the back, remains alive with soccer fans everywhere. As does his trademark goal celebration – a leap with a right

Life after soccer

Pelé’s life after soccer took many forms. He was a politician – Brazil’s Extraordinary Minister for Sport – a wealthy businessman, and an ambassador for UNESCO and the United Nations.

He had roles in movies, soap operas and even composed songs and recorded CDs of popular Brazilian music.

Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, in the small city of Tres Coracoes in the interior of Minas Gerais state on October 23, 1940, Pelé grew up shining shoes to buy his modest soccer gear.

His talent drew attention when he was 11, and a local professional player brought him to Santos’ youth squads. It didn’t take long for him to make it to the senior squad. The rest is history.

fist thrust high above his head.

Pele, pictured on his 80th birthday holding the 1970 World Cup, which he helped Brazil win.

Jilted? Get up and move on!

Dear George

MY BOYFRIENDof 11 years has been promising to marry every year but has found every reason not to. Now I know why.

George, this sad excuse of a man went off and got married on Christmas day in St. Lucia!! I got to know this through a Facebook post shared by a mutual friend. I tried to call him to curse him out but, of course, he has not been answering his phone.

How could a man be so wicked and cold-hearted? This man and I were right for each other. Everybody who knew us told us that. He was the right man for me and I believed that. Now he has left me high and dry and to live a life of sorrow and regret for having wasted 11 years.

Caught Off Guard

Dear Caught Off Guard,

The right man for you would not have done this to you.

Yes, it would hurt for a while but at least you have the consolation of knowing that you did not make the mistake of marrying a man of this nature.

It is going to be challenging but be thankful this man has left your life for good. A longer stay may have caused greater emotional damage and pain. Pull up your boot straps and move on.

Recognise your neglect

Dear George,

I HAD TO RUNinto

Town thinking I would have been back before 9:30 am. It so happened I was delayed and got home after 4 pm. I did not worry too much because I knew my neighbour was home and I told my 7-year-old son many times that if he was ever in trouble and I was not at home, he should contact the neighbours.

When I got back home that day, I met my son crying. He said he got hungry and when he asked the neighbour for something to eat, she

told him to go eat sand.

I confronted her about it and that was when I learned she had me in her craw because she found out I did not vote for the political party she voted for. I was appalled that she would let my son starve because of politics.

I will never forgive her for this and she should start praying she never needs my help.

Very Angry Mother

Dear Very Angry Mother,

It is sad that your neighbour allowed political differences to

stand in the way of her being neighbourly to your son. On the other hand, you should never have put your son in that vulnerable situation. It was and is your responsibility to ensure his safety. You neglected to do that.

Yes, your neighbour was wrong to ignore the pleas of your son but do not let your anger be a replacement for not acknowledging your own negligence. This is something that should never happen again. The care of your child must be your primary concern.

George

You degraded yourself

Dear George,

I HAVE HADeight men in my life and I was convinced each one at the time was serious about me. It was a case that as soon as they met me they would ask to sleep with me making me believe that it was the surest way to prove I love them, and to have them stay around.

Unfortunate for me, they all left as soon as they got what they wanted.

They are all a bunch of users and low-grade men. I am so frustrated right now and I’m wondering if you have any advice for me.

Feeling Used

Dear Feeling Used,

It should not have taken you eight episodes of being used and abandoned to come to the realization that the men you have been dealing with are low-grade and merely users.

What makes you think that a quality man who is sincerely interested in you would threaten that it takes sex and only sex to ensure he stays with you?

Sex should not be an automatic start to a relationship and anyone who is asking for that should be disqualified at the beginning. If you think you deserve better then start demanding better.

George

George

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Get involved in philosophic groups that will enlighten you. Look into joining groups that can give you hands-on advice about business. Try to avoid functions that will bring you in contact with those you find difficult to get along with.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Stay away from social unpleasantness. Only bite off what you can chew. Think before you act if you wish to avoid friction. Get ready to do some fancy footwork when it comes to taking care of your financial situation.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

You may have problems with children. You're undergoing changes. Expect temper tantrums on the home front if you haven't been letting someone have their way. Don't be too quick to sign documents. Try to address the real issues in order to turn things around.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

You will meet new romantic partners through the company you keep. Travel will be on your mind, but you should be sure that you've got all your work up-todate. Your partner may make you feel jealous and unloved. You can anger others quickly this week.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

You could be disillusioned if you let relative in on your emotional thoughts. Don't evade issues or twist the truth around.Don't go hog wild when it comes to entertainment or you could find yourself short of funds at the end of the month.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Your mind will be wandering to exotic destinations. Hard work will payoff if you refrain from expressing your opinion to superiors. Try and avoid getting involved in idle chatter or gossip that might get you in trouble.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Exercise discipline when it comes to controlling bad habits. You might find added popularity with those around you this week. Take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

You'll have great insight. Someone you care about may not be too well. You should be promoting your ideas. Opportunities to expand your circle of friends will result in possible new romantic encounters.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

There might be one who is quite willing to take the credit for your work. Do yourself a favor and leave your plastic at home. Work at home if at all possible. Make your intentions perfectly clear and find out exactly what is expected of you.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. Be tactful if you see flaws in someone else's work. Pleasure trips will induce exciting and passion ate encounters with those of foreign extraction.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

You should not be concerned with coworkers who insist on spreading rumors. Try to include friends and relatives in your activities. Don't hesitate to visit someone who hasn't been well. Travel should be on your agenda.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

You could have trouble persuading others to accept your ideas and opinions. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately. You may want to try your hand at a little creative writing. Don't let your boss get the better of you.

Cordice: ÂAthletes need constant exposureÊ

Left:

JAMES CORDICE,a Vincentian who resides in Pennsylvania, USA, and who is unquestionable the one responsible for effecting and facilitating this country’s participation in the prestigious Penn Relays, is of the view that athletes need to be simulated more through competition, as part of their preparation for the Penn Relays.

Cordice was home earlier this month to be part of the inaugural James Cordice/X-Ceed Sports Club Pre-season Relay Classic staged at the Diamond Track and

Field Facility, December 10, which drew participation from seven local Track and Field Clubs.

For Cordice, putting his name to and giving tangible support for the Pre-season Relay Classic was in keeping with addressing in a real way, the need for local athletes to be competing more as part of their preparation for the Penn Relays.

“I think any measure of competition creates readiness but to really make it fit we have to include some of the

events that are being done at the Penn Relays.

For instance, there are mild events and middledistance events… we have to assess and see exactly where we could fit these into the preparation program.

What I have found over the years at the Penn Relays, everybody wants to run the 4x100 and the 4x400 meters but there are so many other team and individual events.

…. I believe that we have athletes who can compete in those other areas,” Cordice, a Clare Valley native detailed.

He admitted that there should be other events similar to the Relay Classic, and he needed no convincing that they, like the Relay Classic, can serve as a way of preparing athletes for the Penn Relays.

“I believe the Relay Classic will definitely assist with the readiness of the athletes for the Penn Relays. I heard some persons comment about why in the off season. I beg to differ, I think reparation is necessary at any time, I don’t think there should be a time for the kids to be stagnant, so I think these events will keep their heads in the game. It is also a kind of measure of where they are at the end of the year and what you need to do going into the track season,” he posited and referenced Jamaica where he said, there is no off season.

Over and above creating the opportunity for young Vincentian athletes to showcase their talent on the international stage, it was always his intention, that the exposure would also bring other benefits to the young people.

Cordice is a bubble of pride when he relates

that to date, since the country made its debut at the Penn Relays in 2011 with a contingent from the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, a number of those athletes who participated in the Penn Relays have been able to attract scholarships.

“This is my main idea behind my chain of thinking… using the sport as an academic base. From 2011 we would have had about six master’s degree, twelve bachelors, a number of associates, so the whole idea of leaving SVG and coming to the USA, and even if they didn’t win a medal, what it does, it exposes them enough to draw the attention of Colleges and Universities that want our youth to be a part of their track team,” he disclosed.

As for the future, Cordice, described by those who have worked closely with him as a results-oriented workaholic, and who is pleased with how the event unfolded, recognized the need to return to the drawing board to identify the loopholes and attend to them.

Whatever, he is confident enough to

declare, “Going forward, it is going to be bigger and better,” and he does not rule out participation by overseas athletes since, as he upheld, the idea is to make the Relay Classic an international event.

When the day’s events were complete, the results showed that the Central Leeward-based High Performance captured 8 of the 14 events, X-Cel Track Club captured 3, the St. Vincent Grammar School Track Club, 2, and the IT-DAT Academy, 1.

The

were:

other clubs participating

XCeed Sports Club, ROSES Academy and the Mustangs.

James Cordice believes local athletes need to be exposed to more events, like the Relay Classic, in preparation for the Penn Relays.

James Cordice – co-sponsor of the event, with athletes after the medals ceremony.

The High Performance Relay Team is not new to outdoing their competition in the relays. They did so most recently in a February 2022 Relay Classic (pictured).

Godfrey Harry, Track and Field Coach, worked closely with James Cordice to execute the December 10 Relay Classic.

Action in the James Cordice/X-Ceed Relay Classic.

PRESIDENTof the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation (SVGBF) - Rohan Providence, has called on its membership to cooperate and be compliant.

His plea came in light of the prolonged and protracted efforts to have the membership of the Federation ratified.

At a General Meeting held on 19th December at the Xpert Computer Centre Conference Room, Kingstown,

SVGBF President calls for compliance

Providence made it known to the small gathering of affiliates, that the SVGBF is not in the best of administrative health.

Providence pleaded: “If you don’t have membership, you don’t have an organisation … If our members cannot say who your players are, who your coaches, are who your team managers are and you can’t satisfy the membership requirements of the Federation, then you will not be recognized.”

Expounding on some of the travails encountered to get the process going, Providence disclosed, “We have been trying to collect information on affiliates, members, associations, clubs, academies for the longest while … We have asked for persons to reregister, we have provided the forms, given access to the forms, we have

given our contact information …But this about six or seven months on, and we have not had one affiliate (that responded).”

The ratification of the membership is one of the prerequisites to satisfy the National Activity Index, as stipulated by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC).

“We pay our dues, we provide the necessary information but our membership or lack thereof, has not done what is needed. We need to do this,” Providence beseeched.

Providence informed those represent that the SVGOC had recently suspended two of its affiliates for non-activity. Reports named the SVG Taekwondo Association and the SVG Rowing Association as the two national bodies affected.

The woes of the SVGBF have been compounded with the recent resignation of three members of the Executive.

In bemoaning some of the administrative challenges, Providence said “The executive has been seeing changes from the start from 2019 to present day. We’ve seen some changes where we had persons leaving the Executive for one reason or the other.”

Pointing more directly at the shortcomings, the President asked rhetorically, “How can we make those links when we have a membership that is not compliant, not complying with what is required for membership … We na have a mauby shop business… This is a serious sport.”

The Providence-led Executive serves until 2023.

Expect improved sports facilities

DELIVERINGbrief

Grenadines

week’s

Minister Frederick Stephenson pointed to planned upgrades of sports facilities here, in keeping with creating more opportunities for local sportsmen and women, and of government’s commitment to award the success of national sports men and women.

Stephenson told the gathering, “The government of SVG continues to pledge its support for the development of all aspects of sports and facilities, and in the budget for 2023 there are about over $3 million allocated for many sporting facilities repairs.”

More specifically, the Sports Minister referred to monies to be allocated in 2024 for repair work at the Arnos Vale Playing Field with discussion ongoing about lighting that facility.

“We continue to have conversation with the

National Sports Council and the National Lottery Authorities as we continue to develop and advance other sporting facilities throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NLA spent, last year, over $6 million on the new track and field facility at Diamond and on remedial works on several existing facilities,” Stephenson disclosed.

And, as far as recognizing the sportsmen and women, Stephenson added, “I have excellent relations with leadership of all sporting bodies here and I therefore encourage you, the awardees, and other sportsmen and women to continue to lift your game so as to take the sports to the next level.”

And as far as committing to sportsmen and women who have served nationally, regionally and internationally, the Minister gave the assurance that they can count on the support of the government of SVG.

“We have just taken a decision that those who

have been selected as part of national teams in whatever sporting discipline, to make sure you are gainfully employed and those persons who represent SVG at the highest level would also receive duty free concession on a vehicle,” Stephenson assured.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Tennis looking up for 2023

BRIAN NASH, President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association (SVGTA) believes the recently held Inter Schools Tennis Tournament, at the National Tennis Centre (NTC) at Villa, marks a positive return of tennis activities on the sporting calendar here.

“… Activities at the Court (NTC) were hit severely by the Covid pandemic but prior to that, in 2018 we were able to embark on an initiative to train 27 Level 1 coaches from across the Caribbean — including 15 from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Following that, there was the ITF (International Tennis Federation) programme called the Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) – geared towards getting youngsters involved, like ‘Kiddy’s Tennis’,” Nash recalled, explaining that this allowed the coaches to work with youngsters in and out of the Inter School Tournament.

Looking ahead to 2023, Nash is hopeful that the SVGTA would be able to host more tournaments.

“We are looking to have the ITF age group tournaments in full and also a regional Under-12 tournament. We had an Under-14 in 2016 but didn’t have it in 2017 because there was a change in the requirement for the facility so we didn’t qualify for that, but we had the Under-18 tournament and we intend to have that again next year,” Nash said.”

Nash took the opportunity in speaking with THE VINCENTIAN to say how pleased he was with the work of his executive. “Since we came in 2016, we

have revitalized the sports. We have done a number of upgrades to the (Villa) facility in conjunction with the National Lotteries Authority, and have also increased the number of tournament activities, over the 2016 — 2019 period,” the President cited.

I.B.A. ALLEN

remarks at last

St. Vincent and the

Cricket Association (SVGCA) Annual Awards ceremony, Sports

Rohan Providence

Frederick Stephenson, Minister of Sports, addressing the SVGCA, during which he spoke of upgrading facilities and rewarding sportsmen and women.

Brian Nash, President of the SVGTA, is optimistic about an increase in Tennis activities in 2023.

Highs and lows

THINGS can only get better for sports in SVG and indeed the Caribbean in 2023. Lessons learned and experiences felt in recent times have been mixed.

There have been highs and lows. For many of us, the lows unbalanced the scales, and especially for our people with a history of dominance, the downgrade is proving exceptionally burdensome.

The swagger West Indians carried worldwide has snapped in the spine. The shine has been knocked off our ball. Our cricket has been reduced to the ordinary. Basic operations that marked our style of play have disappeared from our imagination.

It seems like an avalanche of malaise. How can we wriggle out of this state of indifference is hard for me to think about?

The pride and dignity identified as part of the Caribbean dynasty are under the microscope. The state of world affairs is affecting the environment. Whereas there are factors that reduce the impact of climate change in the region, there is no doubt that there genuine aspects of concern.

West Indian cricketers and the Cricket Board have to contend with the new dispensation. That is one that ensures our cricket shrugs off the ignominy of the early exit from the T/20 World Cup. How things spiralled so dismally remains an element of disbelief to many.

Perhaps the post-mortem is complete. How the findings are disclosed to the public is an eagerly awaited moment.

Drastic decisions have to be made. There are conflicts in the making as the rifts and indeed animosity between countries and individuals take deeper root.

Managing personalities in the Caribbean in this era of enriched sporting activities is a difficult proposition.

Money run things and there are some available for Caribbean athletes. If their performances reach international standards, rewards are automatic.

Our thing is a tendency to look at the shortterm benefits. Perhaps it’s a legacy of the colonial inheritance. Aspects of longevity and future security are not overriding concerns.

The situation in SVG is compounded by our value system. Vincentians rise to the situation when their backs are against the wall. It is how we handle the situations when they reach us.

There is no easy way out of any scenario. The assessment has to be done so efforts to adjust must be in the solution.

Those who aspire and agitate to command aspects of sports have to fulfill their duties in a sincere fashion.

It has become repetitious, but the nation will do well to embrace the message that sports are an aspect of national development as valuable as any other pillar.

When facilities are provided, there must be a real effort to ensure that communities located have use of those bases. There must be ways to establish local communities to control sporting provisions.

Indigenous management of these sporting bases must be the order of the day.

Football’s leading scorers emerging

WHEN THE THREEDivisions of the National Club Championships, hosted by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, resumes in early January, 2023, there will not only be a jostle for the top places but for individual accolades of top goal scorers as well..

Leading the goal scoring standings in the Premier Division is Hope International’s Juma Jilkes, with seven goals. He has the distinction of scoring in all six matches his team has played.

Jilkes is tailed by Jante James of Sion Hill FC on six goals, while Je Belle’s Steven Pierre has five to his name and Zaadan Simmons of Largo Height — four.

In the First Division, Parkside Rollers’ Malcolm Stewart and SV United’s Akram Edwards are joint leaders, on ten goals each.

Malcolm Stewart

QCESCO Titans’ Jumar Luke is on eight goals, while Kimron Cruickshank of Sparta FC and Zenroy Lee of Richmond Hill are locked on six goals apiece.

Meanwhile, leading the pack in the Second Division is Kadeem Duncan of Brownstown. He has so far netted ten goals.

Next are RVG Police’s Demiris Daniel, Xavier Paul of Strike Force and DESCO’s Mitran John, each with eight goals.

Team competitions

is Hope International on 16 points from six matches. Je Belle is second on 10 points from 5 matches, followed by Layou on 8 points and Sion Hill - 7 points.

The rest of the table in order is Awesome, Largo Height, BESCO Pastures, Avenues United and North Leeward Predators.

In the First Division, SV United is the front runner on 15 points, followed by Camdonia Chelsea - 13 points, Sparta FC- 11 points, Volcanoes- 11, Richmond Hill- 11, Parkside Rollers — 9, and Bequia United — 9.

Sharing the eighth place are Glenside Ball Blazers and Owia United - 7 points, with Richland Park Pride & Joy on 4 points, QCESCO Titans2 and Greiggs — 1 point.

All teams have played six matches each.

And, Brownstown is out front in the Second Division on 19 points from eight matches. They are closely followed by Rocksdale — 18 points, RSVG Police — 18 points and Green Hill- 15 points.

The Second Division Table is completed by 1998 Hillside Rollers — 14 points, Strike Force — 14 points, DESCO - 11 points, Sharpes 09 - 11 points, K & R Strikers - 10 points, Sharpes United - 5 points, Hill View United — 2 points and Toni Stores Jugglers - 0 points.

All teams in the Second Division have played 8 matches.

Kadeem Duncan

Heading the Premier Division

The National Club Championships is set to resume on 6th January, following the break for the Christmas Festivities.

Hooper: CWI needs changes at the top

CARL HOOPER, former West Indies Cricket Captain, has called for changes at the top of Cricket West Indies Inc. (CWI), expressing embarrassment at the team’s historic loss in their recent Test series against Australia, and warning that the side’s decline in the longest format of the game could further worsen.

Hooper, who captained West Indies in 22 Tests and played more than 100, said nothing else had worked to deliver results. “Since 1993 we’ve struggled, and certainly, judging from the results, there’re no policies or systems that have been implemented that is changing the downwards course we’re on,” Hooper said.

“We’ve changed captains, we’ve changed

personnel, we’ve changed coaches but [it] hasn’t worked. So maybe let’s go a little bit higher and get people in these positions that can lead us in the right direction,” added Hooper, who scored more than 5,000 runs and took more than 100 wickets and 100 catches in both Tests and ODIs during his 16-year career.

West Indies lost both matches in their twomatch series against Australia, the second by 419 runs, and not only was that their worst-ever Test defeat, but their second innings total of 77 all out equaled their seventh-lowest total in the history of red-ball cricket.

Despite the demoralizing defeat, Hooper said it might not be the worst the

Caribbean side will face.

“I don’t think we’ve hit rock bottom because every time I think we have; we keep going lower. It’s getting more and more embarrassing.

I’m hurt. I’ve never played in a West Indies side that has been bowled out for under 100. Just never,” the former all-rounder said.

“Your personal pride means you go out and fight. We’re not fighting to qualify in major tournaments. How much lower can we go?” The series further extended the Caribbean side’s three-decade run without a series win against Australia and their 19year wait for a Test match victory. (Source: CNW)

Compiled by: I.B.A. ALLEN

Juma Jilkes

Akram Edwards

Carl Hooper, former West Indies Captain who resides in Adelaide, Australia, says the WI has changed personnel at the lower levels, time to change at the upper level. (Photo credit: Moneycontrol)

2022: Record Year for homicide in SVG

From Backpage

and met him lying motionless in the porch with what appeared to be gunshot and chop wounds about his body”.

Brereton’s death followed that of Burnet Bramble, 59, of Lowmans Leeward.

Bramble’s body was found in bushes around 8:15 am, in his community. The body showed what appeared to be injuries to the head. His death, the 40th homicide for the year, equalled the then record. And if that was not

all, on Christmas Eve, Paul’s Avenue residentJawanza ‘Sanga’ Fraser escaped death.

Reports are that men who were socialising in Paul’s Avenue, noticed a white car circling the area. They decided to place a bench in the road to slow down the flow of traffic.

The car returned and the occupants, on

noticing the road block, exited the vehicle and opened gun fire from a distance. They moved closer to where the men were ‘liming’ and continued to discharge bullets , firing multiple shots into a shop into which they felt the men had run for safety.

When the smoke cleared, Fraser was observed to have been hit

on the right side of his chest and another man, Omo Wally Simmons, was hit in the left foot. They were taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital but Fraser eventually checked himself out.

Police are said to be investigating the shootings and have offered no as to whether the incidents are linked.

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VOLUME 116, No.52 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

2022: RECORD YEAR FOR HOMICIDE IN SVG

byKENVILLE HORNE

THIS YEAR, 2022, has gone down as the year in which St Vincent and the Grenadines recorded its highest number of homicide.

Police confirmed that a Boxing Day (Monday 26th December) shooting marked the 42nd homicide recorded for 2022, making it two more than the previous record of 40 recorded in 2016.

In that incident, Mikhail Charles, a twenty-five (25) year-old man of Ottley Hall was shot about his body in Paul’s Avenue.

According to one source, Charles was visiting his girlfriend, a resident of Paul’s Avenue. While there, they decided to purchase KFC and left on foot, accompanied by some children from the community, for what the source said was the uptown (KFC) outlet.

Along the way they changed their minds and a made a turnaround along Back Street and when they got in the vicinity of Grand Bazaar and Banfield Petrol Station, they observed that someone was following them.

Frightened, Charles and his girlfriend began running but while she was able to find refuge in a yard, Charles continued running into Paul’s Avenue.

The source said that the person chasing Charles had a firearm and caught up with him when he got in the area of the popular Mutt’s shop and shot him, remaining to discharge more bullets even after Charles had fallen to the ground.

The incidents is said to have unfolded around 7 pm.

The 41st homicide is recorded as having been

committed on Christmas Bay.

A Police release confirmed that on Christmas Day, Oswald ‘Bag-ah-Bread’ Brereton, a thirty (30) year-old man of Belair, was shot and killed at home.

The police said that acting on information received, they went to “the deceased place of abode

Cont’d on Page 27

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by HAYDN HUGGINS

brotherÊs keeperÊ – Judge urges

JUSTICEBrian Cottle has urged lawyers to be their brothers’ keepers.

His advice came while speaking at the close of the Criminal Assizes last week.

Justice Cottle underscored that the private Bar performs a crucial role in ensuring that the defendants get a fair trial, and the Judge is grateful for this.

He underscored the importance of legal counsel applying every strategy towards ensuring that they do all they can in defending their clients, but observed that that at times practitioners may go a bit too far.

“We are human beings and we all make mistakes,” Justice Cottle noted, adding, “There are some practitioners who say things, and they approach me after and say, ‘maybe I should not have said that, or maybe I should not have done

that’. Sadly on one occasion this time that was not the case, and I hope that we never have that unsavory conduct again.”

Justice Cottle did not say the “occasion” on which he was reflecting and proceeded to emphasise that the institution of the Court is something that we must all try to protect.

“If you see your brother or sister going astray, you must have a word with them”, he urged.

Cottle said he holds lawyers at the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to a higher standard than those at the Private Bar because they must be exemplary, and he thanked the DPP and her team for their role.

He thanked Jurors for the work they have done for society and the nation. He also expressed gratitude to the police, bailiffs, the High Court team, administrative staff, and the media.

He stressed the important role of the media in carrying the information to the public, adding, “I

thank those members of the press who report accurately and fairly on what is going on.”

DPP Sejilla Mcdowall, in her remarks, also expressed gratitude to the Jurors and all who worked towards ensuring the success of the assizes.

She thanked the media for their coverage, though she acknowledged that in recent times the media seemed to be more selective with the cases they report on from the Assizes.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.

Judge Brian Cottle used the occasion of the close of the Assizes to direct a message to the Private bar.

Oswald Brereton – homicide victim #41.

Mikhail Charles – homicide victim #42.