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FRIDAY,

MARCH 13, 2015

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves took his once political ally Ken Boyea to task for the reasons Boyea gave for the closure of the KFC chain of restaurants.

by DAYLE DA SILVA PRIME MINISTER Dr, Ralph Gonsalves has weighed in on the recent closure of three KFC restaurants here, following action by Receivers appointed

by Nova Scotia Bank.

While he said on Tuesday, during a press briefing, that he regretted what happened

VOLUME 109, No.11

with the former fast food chain, which was operated by Ormiston ‘Ken’ Boyea, the Prime Minister took umbrage with reasons for the closure as stated by Boyea.

Miscalculations Boyea told at least two media outlets here, immediately following the closure of the three outlets, two in Kingstown and one in Arnos Vale, that he expected that the International Airport

This KFC outlet was the first of three to open its doors in SVG.

Argyle would have been completed by now, and that Arnos Vale, where the most recent location was set up, would have already been turned into the proposed new city.

But Dr. Gonsalves said that he believed that the majority of the members of the private sector here had a fair understanding of the situation, which led up to the taking away of the KFC franchise licence from Boyea.

“So the point is this, I don’t know… first of all, Ken Boyea has been a very good business man in this country, one with a very good track record. I don’t know what all the reasons are, and I don’t know when he said what he was quoted as saying,” the Prime Minister said.

“He said that he anticipated that the airport was going to come and the city a little earlier. Let’s just deal with the years. You started to build the place in 2010, out at Arnos Vale, he said the airport was to be completed in 2012 to 2014, does anyone expect that the city would be built at Arnos Vale in less than five years?,” Dr. Gonsalves questioned rhetorically.

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A ‘throwaway line’ According to Gonsalves, the franchise recorded a five percent growth in revenue during one of the most economically challenging years — 2010.

He said he believed that Boyea may have made the comment as a “throwaway line,” and that with two operating branches in Kingstown and a third constructed in Arnos Vale, this (the third) would only be opened if the demand could not be supplied.

The single most significant contributing factor which accounted for the shutting down of the business, according to Dr. Gonsalves, was the point Boyea made about spending too much money.

“To me, that is the germane issue. I don’t see how, if you say you build this place and you couldn’t get the top floors rented and had to take the money from the franchise, well it means the mortgage was too high,” Dr. Gonsalves deduced.

Ormiston Ken Boyea was the only holder of a KFC franchise in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Minister expressed concern for the workers.

“I understand from all the information that I have got from talking to persons, that the owners of the Kentucky franchise are exploring other persons, so I expect that sometime in the not too distant future we will be hearing announcements about which entity has been awarded the franchise, and when business is expected to start,” Dr. Gonsalves told the news persons at the briefing.

He added that he was also hopeful that a Vincentian entity would take over the operations of the restaurants.

Holding out hope Shifting the focus away from Boyea, the Prime

See more on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 3.

News 3

Boyea hopeful of retaining KFC franchise St Clair Investments Ltd, under which KFC St. ORMISTON KEN BOYEA, Vincent Ltd falls, said original holder of the KFC problems started after he franchise in St. Vincent and made an EC$16 million the Grenadines, is confident investment in a mall at that he would get back the Arnos Vale.

KFC franchise, despite the According to Boyea, he closure of the three was hoping to secure a branches of the fast food loan at 7% from Nova chain by Receivers Scotia Bank to construct appointed by the Nova the mall, but instead had Scotia Bank, earlier this to settle for one at 9.5%. week.

He admitted ‘going The first KFC outlet after the investment’ at was opened here on May Arnos Vale to benefit from 8th 1986, at the corner of the opening of the Grenville and Melville International Airport at Streets. Since then, two Argyle and the planned more outlets have been Development of the Arnos opened — another in Vale area.

Kingstown and one at Unfortunately, Arnos Vale. completion dates for the The closure of the three airport kept shifting, and KFC branches means that it is now scheduled to be over 180 full time open on various dates, employees and part time including 2014, but has workers are now on the since been pushed back to bread line. the middle of this year. “I But Boyea said that it like to move ahead of the is too early for the doom curve,” said Boyea, adding and gloom attitude, as he that “the problem is I am is hoping to take remedial not a person who likes to action. “Give us a week or do things half way, and I so to sort things out,” said anticipated the airport Boyea, in an interview would have been opened.” with THE VINCENTIAN He said though, that he last Wednesday night. is not blaming government The business magnate, for his problems. He the Managing Director of blames himself. “May be I

by KENVILLE HORNE

was a bit ambitious,” he quipped.

Boyea disclosed that the ground floor of the main section of the mall, which houses a Super J supermarket, and the annex which accommodates KFC3 and Pizza Hut, continues to do well, even though he had to reduce the monthly rent for the supermarket from EC$ 70,000 to EC$ 50,000.

He admitted that he faced difficulty renting the upper floor of the main building, and this contributed to his current debacle.

Telecommunication service provider Digicel had shown interest in renting the upper floor of the main building, for the purpose of operating a Call Centre, but Boyea insisted he would rather rent to small business.

Boyea intimated that he used funds from the KFC restaurants to help service the mortgage on the Arnos Vale mall, resulting in a drain on the cash resources and reserves of the franchise.

The Businessman also

Ormiston Ken Boyea expressed optimism as far as his retention of the KFC franchise was concerned. told THE VINCENTIAN that he tried getting local investors to purchase shares in KFC St. Vincent, but was unsuccessful.

Notwithstanding, Boyea remains effervescent about his future. “I will fight it; I don’t give up so easily.”

He is encouraged, he said, by interest from sources in St. Lucia and as far away as the United Kingdom.

He is hoping to hold important discussions next week.

He assured: “Once things go well .. the KFC franchise would be back on its feet again, with me still at the helm.”

Heads of Government at the 26th Inter-Sessional Summit of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) named persons to the Commission but there has been no public disclosure yet, of those names.

CARICOM Marijuana Commission to be announced SHORTLY AFTER JAMAICA became the first country in the Caribbean to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana, leaders in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have agreed eventually on the formalisation of a commission, charged with investigating the legalization of the drug throughout the region.

According to the communiqué following the recent 26th InterSessional Summit of CARICOM, held in the Bahamas, Heads of Government agreed on the composition of the Marijuana Commission, which is expected to begin its work soon, to look into the social, economic, health and legal

issues surrounding the use of marijuana, and to consult with stakeholders to get views on the issue.

But it will be some time before those who have been appointed to the Commission will be revealed.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said on Tuesday at a media briefing at Cabinet Room, that it was not in his place to name the Commission’s members.

“I am not the chairman of CARICOM,” Gonsalves said.

He did, however, indicate that two Vincentians are among those appointed.

One he described as a young professional, while the other, he

said, was not a born Vincentian, but became a national through marriage.

According to Gonsalves, the names of those on the Commission will be announced in due course.

At their 25th Inter-Sessional Meeting held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, March 2014, Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) mandated that a Regional Commission be set up to address issues identified in relation to marijuana use.

Expectations were that the Commission would have been formalised and a first report submitted to Heads Summit of July 2014.

A representative of the Receivers appointed by Nova Scotia Bank places a new lock on the main entrance to the KFC outlet in downtown Kingstown, on Monday morning.

Eustace raises accreditation issue again

by DAYLE DA SILVA THE ISSUE OF ACCREDITATION of courses offered at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College has once again surfaced.

Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace on Monday, during the New Times Radio programme, said that he was still seeking answers from the Ministry of Education, as to what was the state of accreditation of those diploma courses being offered.

“Those of you who think that we have forgotten about the debate about accreditation, you better begin to think again. … I still want to know how many of the courses for the diploma are accredited,” Eustace said.

The leader of the opposition first broached the issue of accreditation during a press conference in September 2014. He announced then, that the twoyear diploma was not accredited by the University of the West Indies or any other tertiary institution.

Nigel Scott, Deputy Dean of the College, issued a statement in response, saying that the process of seeking accreditation had begun.

He informed that the first step of this process had already been achieved when the institution received a Certificate of Registration, or essentially what Scott termed Pre-Accreditation, in November 2013.

Scott said then, that the process of accreditation can only be granted by an accreditation body, such as the National Accreditation Board of SVG. But Eustace on Monday said that, despite all the talk, there were no figures to say what courses were accredited.

“We have not spoken much about it, but I have raised it again; I want the Ministry of Education to tell us what is the real state of accreditation of those diploma courses — I am still waiting for that,” he said.

The issue of accreditation of diploma courses offered by the SVG Community College is far from being a ‘dead issue’, as far as the Opposition Leader is concerned.

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4. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Chief Justice issues dress code direction Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

A presiding judge or judges may refuse to hear an attorney or solicitor who is not appropriately dressed for court, until he/she meets the standard of dress as directed by Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Janice Periera.

The direction, referred to as Practice Note No 1 of 2015, states that the dress standard, which took effect from March 1, 2015, is also applicable to Registrars of the Supreme Court, who are required to attend court.

According to a document outlining the details, lawyers appearing before any court are not to wear bright and distracting colours.

Permissible suit colours are black, navy blue and dark grey. These colours may be solid or pin-striped, and only solid or pin-striped white,

navy blue or dark grey inner shirts are permitted to be worn by male counsel. For females, only solid or pinstriped white, black, navy blue or dark grey inner shirts or blouses are permitted. Shoes must be black, navy blue, dark grey or dark brown in colour.

For every court appearance, lawyers are required to wear appropriate formal business attire which, for males, includes suits, sports jackets and pants that are typical of formal business attire for work. For all court appearances, except open court, male lawyers must wear ties which should not contain distractingly bright colours.

For female lawyers, the appropriate formal business attire includes pants and skirt suits, sports jackets and dresses with full length sleeves. When inner shirts, blouses or bodices are worn,

these are to be of an acceptable colour. Inner blouses or bodices with plunging and low cut necklines are to be discreetly worn and should not be excessively revealing. Skirts should be at least knee length or not more than one-inch above the knee. Where pants or trousers are worn, they are to be the traditionally tailored type. Low cut or low rise trousers are not permitted.

Generally tight fitting and body hugging clothing is not permissible.

For members of the Inner Bar appearing in open Court, a black waistcoat with grey and black striped or solid black or grey trousers or skirts should be worn.

Closed shoes must be worn by all lawyers. In the case of females, sling back shoes with closed fronts may also be worn. Open toe or peep toe

Lawyers displeased PRESIDENT of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Bar Association (SVGBA) Rene Baptiste admits that, since she returned to legal practice January 2011 after close to ten years in parliament and cabinet, “By and large, the practitioners whom I encounter from time to time in various courts have been suitably attired.

“I have not seen anybody who has not been properly attired,” Baptiste told THE VINCENTIAN during an interview on Monday.

Her comments came in the wake of a recent court direction on the mode of dress for Attorneys-at-Law and Solicitors who practise before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, which includes the Magistrates Courts, Industrial Court, High Court and Court of Appeal. That dress standard is also applicable to Registrars of the Supreme Court who attend Court sittings. The ‘Practice Direction’, as it is called in legal practice, which took effect from March 1, was issued by Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Janice Pereira, and outlined in a document headlined Practice Note No 1 of 2015, dated February 13, 2015.

Baptiste revealed that some members of the Bar are very displeased with the development, have taken umbrage, and have asked her to take up the issue which “we would do in the earliest possible time, and forward our response to the Chief Justice.”

The SVGBA’s president said that attorney Joseph Delves has issued an open letter voicing his concern, and asking that she use her office to facilitate a response. She noted that several practitioners have endorsed what Delves said.

Baptiste pointed out that, as president of the local bar, she is obligated to represent the interest of members with respect to their response to the court direction issued by the Chief Justice. She noted that the OECS Bar held a meeting in St Lucia last weekend, and the two items on the agenda were the mode of dress and social decorum. The SVGBA was represented at the meeting by its vice

president Duane Daniel and Secretary Patricia Marks. Baptiste said that the lawyers were expected to return last Sunday, but she had not yet received any feedback. She, however, added that the SVGBA should meet around March 19, and the issue of the Practice Direction concerning the mode of dress would be among the items to be Rene Baptiste, discussed.

President of the “This is a matter which SVG Bar I had hoped that the Association, says Bench-Bar (Lawyers and she is obligated Judges) would have to raise the addressed in our displeasure of the committee meeting. I did Bar’s not expect that this is membership, in something I would have to respect of a court address, but I have an direction on the obligation to represent the mode of dress for interest of the Bar,” Attorneys-at-Law Baptiste assured. and other officers In Delves’ letter, which of the court was endorsed by attorney system.

Paula David, he pointed out in part, “our right and that of our clients to be heard should be based solely on the merits of the case and on the contents of our character, and not on our appearance. Nothing ought to turn on whether we wear a pink shirt or a blue one, old fashioned waisted pants or low waisted ones.”

Delves also stated in the letter, “We expect our institutions to lead the way in embracing our unique, multicultural and heterogeneous Caribbean culture, and in freeing ourselves from unnecessary colonial vestiges.

“Our Court of Appeal judges produce brilliant opinions in the most trying of conditions. But in this matter, which touches the intersection of culture, history and the law, in our view and with respect, they got it wrong”.

shoes and sandals are not permissible. Any deviation from this must be approved by the court prior to counsel’s appearance.

At all times, jewellery must be unobtrusive. The wearing of extravagant designs and excessive amounts of jewellery should be avoided. Eyebrow rings, nose rings and other similarly non-traditional piercings must be unadorned when counsel is appearing before the court.

When counsel is robed, Chief Justice of the Eastern necklaces, broaches, bracelets and scarves must Caribbean Supreme Court Janice Periera has laid down ‘the law’ not be visible. When as far as a dress code is hosiery is worn, it should be plain and either shear or concerned for attorneys, opaque. Fish net patterned solicitors and other court and adorned hosiery is not offcials. permissible, and hairstyles and buttoned to close jacket, should be professional and and waistcoats must be fully appropriate for court, and buttoned at all times. For should not be distracting. females, collarets or full bibs Tatoos must not be visible. collarets must be worn on the Lawyers appearing in open inside of the inner shirt or court are expected to be fully dress, with the attachment robed, which includes gowns, being securely hidden under wing collars, bands and the collar of the shirt, collarettes. When fully robed, revealing only the neck band counsel must wear appropriate and tabs. attire above and under their Lawyers must ensure that gowns. In the case of male at all times, gowns are counsel, court bands must be properly fitted and not worn, with the attachment hanging loosely off the being securely hidden under shoulder. They are not the collar of the shirt, permitted to robe or disrobe in revealing only the tabs. Shirts the court room while court is must be plain white, collared, in session.

‘A mountain from mould,’ cries Connell WHILE SOME lawyers here are displeased with the recent dress code direction issued for Attorneys and Solicitors, as well as Registrars of the Supreme Court who are required to attend Court, defence lawyer Grant Connell does not have an issue with it.

“There are so many issues in this country to be addressed, where the combined efforts of lawyers can effect some change; but they are silent on Attorney Grant those issues, and chose the style of clothing to create a mountain out of a Connell wants to know what all the fuss is mould,” Connell told THE about concerning a VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. dress code direction “I don’t have any issue with it (dress code direction). There must be for Attorneys and Solicitors. some order. If you want to come to court dressed like you going to a party, I guess you are in the wrong profession. After all, this is supposed to be a noble profession,” Connell said.

“I understand some may want to have a Caribbean look; but you have to limit the flair in the way you want to look. It is not a carnival,” he contended.

He is aware that “everybody is entitled to their opinion and at the end of the day, you could dress how you want.” But he cautioned, “You will be seen and not heard.”

The Practice Direction, as it is known in legal practice, took effect from March 1 this year.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 5.

Arts

AMP stages 2nd Annual Music Awards

the converted award of Entertainer of the Year.

VINCENTIAN RECORDING artistes and Lancelot ‘Mad Skull’ Gloster, coming others associated with the music industry off his best season to date, took home the here in SVG were honoured last Friday, awards for Best Soca Single of the Year March 6 as outstanding achievers for for his recording, ‘Family’, and Best New 2014.

Male Artiste of the Year, with Geneina The honours were bestowed at the ‘Gem’ Browne taking the Best New Second Annual St. Vincent and the Female Artiste award.

Grenadines Association of Music Veteran Soca Artiste Rondy ‘Luta’ Professionals (SVGAMP) Music Awards, McIntosh bagged the award for Ragga held at the Peace Memorial Hall.

Soca Single of the Year with his hit The evening’s actual awards song, ‘Till morning’; and reigning ceremony was preceded by a red carpet Soca/Ragga Soca Monarch Delroy affair, which allowed nominees and ‘Fireman’ Hooper, absent from the patrons, the Who’s Who of the music evening’s ceremony, copped the Record of industry here, to ‘show off’ a range of the Year title for his ‘Rum Meeting’. fashion designs. Add to this an UK-based Marlon ‘Matta Fix’ appropriately decorated lounge area, and Roudette received two awards on the the near perfect ambience was assured night — Best Music Video of the Year for the evening’s programme. and Universal Single of the Year for his Internationally acclaimed composer, ‘When the Beat Drops Out’. and soca recording and performing Newcomer Joel ‘Dynamite’ Tyril got artiste, Gamal ‘Skinny Fabulous’ Doyle, the surprise of his life when he won the with seven nominations, led the list of Reggae Single of the Year award for his 2015 hopefuls. He walked away with song ‘Believe’. the Songwriter of the Year award and Others awarded were: Zamfir ‘Man

by KENVILLE HORNE

‘AMP engaged in necessary struggle,’ says President PRESIDENT OF THE SVG Association for Music Professional (SVGAMP), Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles, says his association is engaged in a necessary struggle to protect the music of this country, and to ensure that international established systems of music royalty collection are enforced here in St.Vincent and the Grenadines Charles, speaking at the second annual AMP Music Awards on Friday 6th March at the Peace Memorial Hall, appealed to those involved in the music industry to avoid speculation and, instead, “do their research on their music rights.

“When the dust settles and all the talking heads have moved on to the next topic, it’s your intellectual property that is left to be protected,” said Charles.

He said the current situation where upwards of 85 cents for every dollar collected for royalties will leave SVG to go to

Trinidad, Jamaica, United States and the United Kingdom, “was unacceptable, and we must set about the task of keeping more royalty payments )at home).”

He proffered that it is for local broadcasters to play more Vincentian music more consistently, and called on music makers to lift their game and set higher standards in music production and marketing.

But ‘Bomani’ was optimistic, saying, “We can do this together as we continue the hard work to build our music sector into a music industry.”

The President, himself a composer, performing and recording artiste, explained that the SVGAMP Executive took the decision to hold the ceremony this year to coincide with the season of international music awards activities. “More importantly, we wanted it to fall within the time of the National Heroes

Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles, President of the SVG Association for Music Professionals, called on local broadcasters to play Vincentian music more consistently. month. I believe that the music of SVG is deeply embedded in our heritage through songs of struggle and freedom, to songs of spirituality,” said Charles.

He thanked all partners of AMP and sponsors for their support, and extended congratulations to all the nominees and awardees.

Gamal ‘Skinny Fabulous’ Doyle was voted Entertainer of the year.

Lancelot ‘Mad Skull’ Gloster had a breakout year in 2014, and was named Best New Male Artiste of the Year.

Zangie’ Adams for Calypso Single of the Year (Act before it’s too late); Bridget Blucher - Gospel Single of the Year (Greatly Blessed); MultiDenominational- Best Vocal Performance by a duo or group (Called Out); Lennox Bowman for Christmas Single of the Year (Two Christmases); and Melissa — Dancehall Single of the Year (Good Name).

Darron Andrews grabbed the Musician of the Year award, and the duo of Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James and Patrice Roberts was adjudged Best Vocal Collaboration of the Year for ‘Born to Win’. Calvin ‘DJ CJ’ Llewellyn from Emerald Sounds took the Disc Jockey of the Year award. Alex ‘Kubiyashi’ Barnwell received the award for Producer of the Year, and Wetty Beats/ Stadic Studios took the award for Best Riddim Track of the Year for ‘Wreck it Riddim’. Rodney Small & the Ultimate Band was adjudged Best Live Band of the Year, while NBC Radio was named Radio Station of the Year.

Campden Park resident, Akene ‘Prez’ Keizer, captured the award in the Hip Hop and R&B Single of the year category for his song ‘Talk About Me’, which featured Carice and Young Quinic. ‘Prez’ also took home the Digicel

Geneine ‘Gem’ Browne, the new girl on the block, was heralded as the best New Female Artiste of the year.

People’s Choice Award for Recording Artiste of the Year.

The Second Annual SVGAMP Music Awards also saw special recognition being accorded calypsonian Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus and band leader Roland Sardine.

Clement ‘Baha’ Lawrence, a former calypso king, received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Live performance punctuated last Friday evening’s programme, including contributions from: Gospel band Called Out featuring Kelsie Haynes; K-Netiks band with lead singer Akiedo; Hip Hop artiste Yung Quinc; Reggae artiste ‘Dynamite’; Gospel singer Stacy Lyttle; and ‘Luta’, the evening’s curtain-closer.

Many persons in the audience were heard to comment that this year’s Awards Ceremony was a vast improvement over last year’s inaugural ceremony.

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6. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Heritage

Garifuna culture takes centre stage Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY CURTAINS will come down on the 2015 International Garifuna Summit, Festival and Conference this Sunday, March 15.

A Pilgrimage to Balliceaux will provide the climax to the Summit whose activities began on Monday, but which was officially opened last Wednesday evening, with a keynote presentation by Dr Sheila Walker, at the Peace Memorial hall.

Baliceaux is considered sacred ground to Garifuna whose ancestors, 5000 in number, were horded there before banishment to Roatan Island off the Central American coast of Honduras.

An Extravaganza at Heritage Square in capital city Kingstown is part of tomorrow’s (Saturday) activities. That event will feature Generation X Band and Adrian ‘The Doc’ Martinez, in a display of Garifuna inspired rhythms.

The Extravaganza follows a wreathlaying function at the Obelisk at Dorsetshire Hill early Saturday morning, National Heroes Day, in honour of Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer who was killed in battle on that spot, March 14, 1795.

so because of her institution’s mission of The Summit, hosted by the local Garifuna Heritage Foundation, opened renewing cultural links with the unveiling of a model of an with the early Indigenous Village at the National Public Library, last Monday. Organisation of That portrayal came with help from Eastern Caribbean Professors Corinne Hoofman and States.

Menno Hoogland, and complemented by material analyses at the Free Other activities Model of the early University of Amsterdam and the Catholic University of Leaven, Garifuna/Kalinago Films Belgium. village at Argyle, on highlighting Interest in the nation’s past was display at the aspects of the sparked by findings at the site of the National Public Garifuna legacy Library.

Argyle International airport.

Excavations there revealed the layout were shown during the of the indigenous settlement with week, beginning on Monday. location of houses, burial grounds, Workshops focussing on Garifuna plaza and refuge areas.

Music, Theatre Arts, and Garifuna The unveiling was made possible Medicinal Plants also formed part of with the support and collaboration of the week’s deliberations. the SVG National Trust, and the Today Friday will see the opening of International Airport Development a Back to our Roots Garifuna Village Photographer and Documentarist Corporation. at Heritage Square and on the grounds Robert Charlotte (L) and Director of of the Old Public Library. the Alliance Francaise of St. Vincent Exhibition of Garifuna culture In 2001, UNESCO proclaimed the and the Grenadines Vanessa Garifuna Language, Dance and Music Demirciyan at last Monday’s Aspects of Garifuna culture were Photography Exhibition. again exposed at an exhibition staged a ‘Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity’ in at the Old Public Library in Nicaragua, Honduras and Belize. the ancestral homeland of the Kingstown, also on Monday. This St. Vincent and the Grenadines is Garifuna nation. featured photographs by Martinique born Robert Charlotte.

An opening ceremony was addressed by Garifuna Heritage Foundation president David ‘Darkie’ Williams and Cultural Officer Anthony BAND MASTER of the Royal Concerts, funerals, opening Theobalds.

SVG Police Force Band, of Parliamentary sessions, Charlotte made trips to St. Vincent Inspector Bernard Haynes, is and nearly every occasion last year. His interaction with questioning the veracity of for which music is needed. residents in the Garifuna communities the SVG Association of “The Police Band is produced a documentation of their life Music Professionals National working very hard, and struggle.

Music Awards. weekend, holidays, or His display featured portraits of The ceremony to recognise normal events. That is persons at Chateaubelair, Rose Bank, achievements in 2014 was supposed to bring Sandy Bay, Greggs, Fancy, and Fort held at Peace Memorial Hall recognition. … It can’t be Charlotte. If things go according to last Friday. that they don’t see the plans, Charlotte would extend his Insp. Haynes’ claim is Band. What category is the documentation to include the Garifuna that there was no mention of Police Band?” Inspt. diaspora. November is set as a the Police Band in any of the Haynes pondered. tentative date for this undertaking. categories for adjudication.

As far as Haynes is Director of the Alliance Francaise of Questions surface since, Inspector concerned, the Police Band St. Vincent and the Grenadines as he said, the Police Band Bernard Haynes is renowned.

Vanessa Demirciyan was happy to has been in the public eyes is making a case Insp. Haynes has been identify with the mission, especially for almost every day of the to SVGAMP for in charge of the Police year. consideration to Band since 2011. But he is According to Insp. be given to the not new to the musical Haynes, the Police Band has Royal SVG Police scene. He celebrated 35 been providing musical Force Band when years in the Police Force accompaniment at this deliberations are last Saturday, and has the nation’s premier cultural held to decide distinction of having event for the calypso who gets National appeared at every finalists since 1996.

Music Awards.

Independence celebration For the past three years, here since 1979. the Police Band has been He noted that the band, formally spearheading Training Programmes established in 1951 under the for students during the July/August directorship of Weston Lewis, has holidays. received accolades from institutions When it comes to Independence, and individuals over the years. He is the Police Band is a fixture of of the view that, with the awards celebrations. having been initiated, the Police Band Christmas time sees the Police should have attracted some attention.

Band at concerts throughout St. The Police Band has produced a Vincent and the Grenadines. number of outstanding individual Furether, Insp. Haynes disclosed, the Police Band has played for AMP- musicians, including band masters like Cecil St. Hilaire, Arnold Caesar, related functions, in addition to Sydney Harry, Brian James, Dennis appearances at Schools Sports, Literacy Marches, Pan Against Crime Williams, and Carlos Sampson.

Model Village

Band Master raps AMP

One of the portraits on show at the Photo Exhibition was one of Horace Rodgers of Greiggs.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 7.

News

‘Something wrong deep inside,’ says Eustace shame to congratulate the new Government of St Kitts, dem must tell WHILE HE SAID that he has an issue with you hal yuh (expletive).” the profanity that was used, Leader of Bibby-Bowens further posted, the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace “wunna does (expletive) feel the maintains that there is a broader issue in (expletive) country is wunna own, dey relation to the matter involving Josette must jail yuh (expletive) now, all yuh Bibby-Bowens, a teacher, who was does let power get to all yuh head but arrested after posting profane comments even the longest rope have an end.” on the social media site, Facebook.

She was arrested by members of the Bibby-Bowens was taken into Major Crime Unit, who went to her custody by members of the Major work place and took the 37-year-old Crime Unit at her work place, the woman into custody. She was granted Bishop’s College Kingstown, Paul’s station bail.

Avenue, on Monday 2nd March.

But Eustace said on Monday, on the She was subsequently charged with ‘New Times’ radio programme, that the distribution and public exhibition people have made remarks on of profane remarks which references Facebook from time to time, and have Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, been involved in activities or actions, appeared before the Kingstown and all they got was a rap on the Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday 3rd knuckles, or sometimes no action had March, pleaded not guilty, was been taken. granted continuance on her bail, and “I can’t understand the rationale for ordered to return to court on March treating the teacher in this manner,” 17.

Eustace said.

The Principles of Accounts and He continued, saying that he did not Information Technology teacher was support Bibby-Bowens’ use of alleged to have posted on Facebook on profanity; however, the heavy-handed February 17, 2015, “Ralph you should reaction was cause for concern.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

“Others have been accommodated for doing much more wrong in civil society, but she has had the whole book Josette BibbyLeader of the thrown at her, even prevented Bowens’ case may from travel. What’s this?” Eustace well turn out to be a Opposition Arnhim Eustace does not quipped. test case for future condone the The Leader of the Opposition reference here and profanity allegedly said that he was in agreement in the region. used by a teacher, with Bibby-Bowens on the stance but questions the raises questions taken by Dr. Gonsalves in relation to high-handed in the minds of the issue in St Kitts-Nevis particularly manner in which when for two years, the ‘Team Unity’- members of the she was arrested public, whether led administration were unsuccessful and charged. or not there are in its bid to put forward a nodifferent laws for confidence motion against the then Dr different people in society.

Denzil Douglas-led administration.

“A democracy cannot exist in that “To me, in my mind it is very kind of environment where in fact you hypocritical also, to come and raise are trying to stop people from expressing their views. this matter in the way it was done “People have made much worse after the elections in St Kitts and statements than that on Facebook and Nevis,” Eustace said.

“The question is why the heavy nothing has happened to them, not hand, when in comparison with others even a rap on the knuckles, and that is who are on Facebook and who have what I have great difficulty with,” done much worse in many instances, Eustace continued. where was the heavy hand for them?

He said that he was not going to be Why is there a heavy hand for her?” distracted with such issues, since This heavy-handed reaction means there were a lot of other far more something else, Eustace said, and it important issues for him to deal with.

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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial March in our lives THE MONTH OF MARCH is a busy month as far as observances by the United Nations are concerned.

These observances are usually declared as ‘Months’, ‘Days’ or even ‘Years’, in an effort to promote awareness of and action on important political, social, cultural, humanitarian or human rights issues.

The majority of these observances have been established by the United Nations General Assembly, and some have been designated by United Nations’ specialised agencies like UNESCO, UNICEF and WHO. But back to March. Among the 15 ‘Days’ designated by the UN/UN Agencies for March are: International Women’s Day (March 8); International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (March 21); World Poetry Day (UNECSO — March 21); International Day of Forest and Trees (March 21); World Water Day (March 22); International Day for the Right to Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims (March 24); and International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

The fore-mentioned are listed since, by interpretation, they hold some significance for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It is meaningful, therefore, that, as we seek to establish our place in world community, we choose to designate March 14 as National Heroes Day and March as Heritage Month.

Isn’t it even more significant that the Garifuna Heritage Foundation would hold its annual Summit during this month, the month that is designated for heightened awareness of slavery and the genocide that came with colonialism, founded on the ‘right’ of one man over another — one race over another?

And fittingly, we celebrate World Water Day, recognition of the basic nutrient for life (water), with a Water Week all of our own, during which the importance of forests and trees is not diminished.

So, knowingly or unknowingly, we have jumped into an international agenda with an agenda of our own making. For that, we can take a bow.

Yet, there remains much, much more real, not imaginable, things to be done to make us a people proud of our own, and proud to stand among the global community, as an equal partner.

Not least is for us to stop pussy-footing about the naming of another National Hero.

That pussy-footing, if the truth be told, has descended into another political abyss, encouraged by one side moreso than any others.

Unfortunately, this state of unnecessary (political) procrastination makes the naming of another National Hero a further stroke of division, thereby flying in the face of the expectation that a National Hero unites a people, not divide them.

What in the name of Zeus’s #$&* is holding back the process? Some narrow, partisan impression of who or what constitutes a National Hero? Some promised agenda as repayment for some deed done?

Can all this be put to spend with an announcement of another National Hero this National Heroes Day? Wishful thinking, eh?

Subject to correction, but isn’t there consensus for the naming, sooner rather than later, of George Augustus Mc Intosh as our next National Hero?

Isn’t there consensus that he should stand alone in this round, so that his National Hero status will be allowed to grow, permeate our psyches and thus inform the now and the future?

Why can’t we put an end to all the intellectual posturing, all the advancements of personal positions on this matter? Time to stop speaking to and for the people and listen to the people!

And maybe that is the crux of the indecision that rests heavily on our bosoms. That we have allowed the ‘debate’ to hover at such levels of ‘knowledge’, that we have removed the sentiments of the people as consideration in a final decision.

In the final analysis, it is the people who, in their acceptance or nonacceptance of what our politicians come up with, should inform the exercise of naming a National Hero.

And while we are at those whom we recognise for their service to people, spare a moment of commendation for our calypsonian extraordianre, Alston Becket Cyrus, who has gone beyond mere words of ‘giving back to community’. (See Page 19 of this issue.)

Becket has formalised his Becket Benefit Organization, comprised of ordinary folk from his native Layou, to map and direct with continuity, a course of assisting residents of Layou who are in need, and addressing the needs of Layou as a whole.

Is this something of a first timer in SVG? Irrespective, it is unquestionably something to be emulated; something for which Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus deserves our appreciation.

Happy National Heroes Day to all.

National Heroes Day IT IS NOW EXACTLY 23 YEARS since the first baptism ceremony was held publicly to hail whom the people considered to be our First National Hero, Joseph Chatoyer, and to celebrate the first National Heroes Day on the 14th March, the date on which Chatoyer was last seen alive.

This historical-cultural event took place under the headship of a few grass-roots organisations and personages without an official authorisation, whose blessing came by way of two sympathetic Ministers of an NDP Government.

The day marked a milestone in our social development, and was captured by a Vincentian Journalist Conley Rose, who had been a conscientious activist in the ceremony, and bears repeating, if only in my column, This Week, for its socio-historical significance.

The First National Heroes Day Rally by Conley Rose published in THE VINCENTIAN 20/3/1992 In spite of the inclemency of the weather, the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC) held a historic and successful National Heroes Day Rally at the Langley Park Government School, on Saturday 14th March, 1992.

Under themes: “Let us Honour our Heroes” and “500 years of struggle and Resistance”, the NQC activists, led by its Chairman, Renwick Rose, must be congratulated for braving the pouring rain and carrying on the day’s celebration, in such damped and uncertain conditions. The rally nevertheless started around 5:15p.m, with singing of the National Anthem, followed by a fitting prayer

by Nelcia Robinson, and welcoming remarks

by Tydel John, the chairman of the day’s proceedings.

Opening remarks were given by the NQC chairman Renwick Rose, who stressed the significance and importance of National Heroes Day, and he emphasised the representative character of the NQC, and also indicated that the request to the Government of St Vincent and Grenadines, is one of a serious nature to be treated in such manner.

In his words, “National Heroes Day has to do with our history, our self-pride, our identity and also our cultural traditions as a struggling people”.

Minister of Education, Sports and Culture John Horne delivered greetings to the rally on behalf of Government. The Cultural Minister in an emotional address, said that, “at times like these, reality must give precedence to our emotions.” He went on to state that the Garifuna people in Belize become very emotional and hysterical when reacting to St Vincent as their homeland, and he is very proud of the Garifuna response in Belize. The Education Minister stated that he knows that there is a burning desire by the people of St Vincent to recognise March 14th as National Heroes Day, but that it was up to the Cabinet to decide on the issue. Mr Horne was noncommittal personally on the NQC request, but later played a pre-recorded voice of Prime Minister Mitchell that he had no objection to

declaring March 14th as National Heroes Day. He later called on the people above the Dry River to recognise their roots as Garifuna people to seek to develop Calinago Culture.

The Minister of Culture stated that in three years time, a number of the descendants of the Black Caribs from Belize would be visiting St Vincent for the centenary celebrations, and said, the question is, “are we ready and able to welcome the Garifuna people to our shores”?

He then made some recommendations to the rally: (1) that Vincentians consider a programme of education on history and culture of St Vincent and the Grenadines. (2) That the History book “Rise and Fall of the Black Caribs” be taught in all schools throughout the State. (3) That Dr. Kirby and Dr. Fraser compile a book on local history to use as a history book. (4) That the Historical Society be revived as an active organisation.

The Education Minister, on behalf of the Government, thanked Mayor Sylvia Flores for visiting SVG. The Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Culture, Yvonne Francis Gibson, followed soon after with a short address.

Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams paid tribute to Ebenezer Theodore Joshua. He spoke on the “Life and Times of Joshua” and reiterated the call for “Pappy Joshua” to be made a National Hero.

The highlight of the National Heroes Day Rally, however, was the feature address delivered by the guest speaker, the Hon. Sylvia Flores, Mayor of the City of Dangriga in Belize. Mayor Flores was given a rousing welcome and a standing ovation by the Chairman and officials present at the rally.

Chairman Tydel John gave a good account of himself in keeping the attention of the crowd, and moreso, for his precise introduction of Mayor Sylvia Flores.

The chairman told the crowd that Sylvia Flores, a descendant of the Black Caribs, is the First Woman Mayor, (a Garifuna) of the city of Dangriga in Belize.

Mayor Flores asked the rally to observe one minute silence for Chatoyer, then recited a poem on Africa, which was well received.

The mayor said that her visit to St Vincent is the fulfilment of a dream come true, of returning to her roots and homeland. She outlined the common bonds of blood relations, history, culture and struggles as a people both in Belize and in St Vincent.

Several cultural performances took place throughout the rally, including the kids of New Adelphi, the Sandy Bay/Owia Quadrille Dance Group, Sulle and others. An exhibition of arts and craft, and photos of National Heroes were displayed. Local foods, including doucana and bam bam, with local juices were on sale. D.L music complemented a fine evening of rich culture and positive education, combined with a strengthening of the bonds between Garifunas of Belize and the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 9.

Letters

ÂArgyleÊ and the Grenadines This is 2015, and Vincentians are eagerly awaiting the opening of AIA, the Argyle International Airport, more appropriately to be named REGIA - Ralph Everard Gonsalves International Airport.

We have been waiting since 2010, the first officially announced opening date. Many have since passed.

As of today, the estimates (cost) vary, but regardless of when the Airport finally opens, has anyone, to date, asked THE QUESTION: In

which way will the Grenadines benefit from this Airport?

While heartily welcoming the airport to the mainland, where investments are very much needed, what are the advantages the new Airport will bring to the Grenadines, the sister isles, where most of the revenue is generated in Tourism, Crown Land Property Sales, Island Lease, Ex-pat Investments, etc. ?

Let’s assume the AIA will be accepted by International

Aviation Authorities, service

by International Carriers such as BA, AA, CA, Jet Blue, Delta, Condor, etc, is something that has not been established in spite of much ‘lobbying’. No commitments so far have surfaced from abroad.

Anyway, you are landing in Argyle, fine, what’s next?

First, you need a long, curvy taxi ride to get to the Grenadines Wharf. There you need to be lucky to meet a ferry ready to sail. When

School children locked out for being late Editor, Maybe I am too much of a realist, and that I should just simply accept, without employing any critical thought whatsoever, the eccentricities in the Ministry of Education.

However, with the current discussion about school dropouts and poor performances of our students in SVG, relative to those in the other member states of the OECS, this topic of mine should be declared pertinent to the swirling scholastic currents. Not to mention to the debate of the famous ‘education revolution’.

For a very long time now, I have seen students locked out at

* Doesn’t the Minister of Finance have the right to request or demand information from a commercial bank with respect to a transaction involving a civil servant, in a matter under review? * If the PM does have that right, what is the problem getting an copy of the invoice related to the matter in which the Comptroller of Customs is deeded to have been involved? * Why are school children saying that KFC now stands for Ken’s Financial Crisis? * Were there efforts by persons in high national office to prevent the closure of the KFC outlets?

various schools, and, may I emphasize, locked outside of the school compound, for being late.

These students must linger and loiter in the road until break time, and waste learning time because that is the respect that their hardworking parents deserve.

Teachers do arrive late, and some, systematically late, but they are allowed to come in.

I don’t know whose idea it was this to lock students out of the compound for being late; but it sickens me to the core. If this was the method they came up with to deter lateness, and so improve punctuality, I would say their intention was noble, but their vision was distance-challenged, meaning, they could not see afar.

Editor, these are antiquated methods at best, especially in our educationally advanced era. They are not working and cannot work. In fact, they are more counterproductive

than productive. The student loses a lot more.

When we examine and analyse the poor results of our students, there are a number of factors that must be taken into account. I could begin to list ten of them, but who in the mighty ‘system’ above us, will ever take note from a duncy head?

While I do not have all the answers, I think it is more commendable if late-coming be measured in points/days, and that after a certain number of points/days, a student should be made to bring in his/her parent or guardian, to discuss and stem this problem. In this way, there is interface with the child’s custodian who can help to answer to and address the matter.

On the other hand, if a child is constantly early but arrives late one morning due to some unforeseen circumstance, he or she is locked out.

How barbaric this system!

arriving in the later afternoon, you need to get yourself a hotel, as there are no late boats. In short, you are spending lots of additional money, and most of all, precious time before you reach your final holiday destination.

Of course, in case you have the money, you can also charter an additional flight to the Grenadines, JUST AS YOU CAN DO FROM BARBADOS which could make a crucial difference...since there is the

likelihood of less hassle, much less time and probably less money too! So, where are the benefits to the Grenadines?

Anyone who ever looked into this scenario in a sober, apolitical way, will determine will concluded that the only sensible, hugely beneficial solution for the Grenadines is a direct, reasonably priced shuttle schedule from Barbados to the Grenadines!

Concerned Citizen

Questions about teachers and teaching I AM NOT going to get into the privacy issue of ‘facebook’ and all the other social media to which, it seems, we, Vincentians, are as hooked as the rest of the world. Rather, I want to ask a few questions about teachers, the teachers union and selfrespect: Has the acceptance that as a teacher, we have to set an example for the younger ones gone through the door?

As much as the Teachers Union has to look out for its members, is it not its responsibility to rebuke its members when they fall out of line? Are they (the

Union) not also a body of professionals that is expected to ensure that its members behave accordingly?

Have we lost our respect for ourselves?

More particularly, have our women lost respect for themselves? Is the behaviour of that teacher not an indictment in this time when we focus on the attributes and contributions of women the world over?

Is it that we are so overcome these days by our own prejudices — and I blame our politicians for fostering this — that we don’t know when to ‘shut-up’?

Jones

Tom drunk, but Tom no fool

In the News 20/2/15, I saw an application for the post of ‘Senator’ for ‘Storm’ by his father D-Doc, who will approve same and hand the job to him.

Another lawyer in the family; another lawyer in the dynasty; another one in the House. Way to go Doc! Storm, a young son, who never worked, but can entice the voters with a school bus which he claims he asked for (as a donation) and was given, (Tom drunk, but Tom na fool).

Storm really love his fellow Vincentians. They showed him the road, ‘to be ah Millionaire’.

The (LPG) retailers are crying foul. They want Duncy Head the PM to go on air and say he made a mistake.

The old stock should be sold first before the price drops, so they the retailers are using the old prices still. (We can’t I MAY HAVE missed the actual date who are God’s exceptional gifts to the for International Women’s Day by a world — those who make unimaginable get receipt to prove).

Now, if the PM should week or so, but I don’t think it is too sacrifices to set the lives of so many come on air and say he late to celebrate and recognise the on the straight and narrow path of made a mistake contributions that women have made honesty, good manners and a strong actually the gas price to our country. work ethic. should have risen to, let I am not going to labour on the Not that I will forget those whom us say, $55 per cylinder, exploits of outstanding women here — the society has thrown up for would the retailers not those in politics, law and so forth. recognition; but I can’t help but think raise the price right Rather, I want to recognise and say of the thousands of women who, day away (from the price of a big thank you to all the ordinary in and day out, work selflessly to old stock)? Advise them grandmothers, mothers, aunties, make this country what it truly is. to stock up the cheap sisters, wives, who shape the lives of Thanks to all those strong, often ones now, so whenever those for whom they care day in and unrecognised women who labour in prices rise again, they day out, sometimes working miracles the vineyard of humanity. They are will get a fat profit which as they stretch the dollar to make this country’s true GEMS. they always get. ends meet.

I have nothing but love, and wish Charles A Vincentian all God’s blessings on those women

Recognising the real women

The midnight story I can feel the cool, cool breeze Making sounds in the swaying trees, whistling leaves With buttercups glowing in the dark And photos of big and small buildings Motor vehicles parked in lanes.

All shops are closed, no vending Customers are asleep, til’ the morning Only the drivers moving by Passing the pedestrians morning and night.

The streets are so quiet and warm It invites you to see the lighted harbour To enjoy that peace of mind in tranquillity Oh, how happy to be walking along this beautiful city It’s paradise in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Joanna Felicia Thompson- PC 823

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10. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The NDP, agriculture and fisheries in SVG Celebrating fourteen years of progress THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) The issue This month of March, the 28th to be exact, marks 14 years since the Unity Labour Party (ULP) scored its first electoral victory at the polls, with a 12 to 3 majority to the New Democratic Party (NDP), which had been in government for 17 years.

Today Vincentians can be proud of the achievements the ULP has delivered under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

Currently, that progress continues and can be seen in several projects, including the continuing construction of the $700 million International Airport at Argyle; the $26 million rehabilitation of the South Leeward Highway from Hospital Road to Layou; the $5.8 million dollar rehabilitation of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital; the construction of a $4.5 million polyclinic at Buccama; a similar project in Mespo, as well as several doctors quarters and nurses hostels in Sandy Bay, Chateaubelair, and Union Island; and the Diagnostic Hospital in Georgetown.

Work also continues apace on several projects in relation to rehabilitation following the 2013 December floods, which include the Caratal Bridge, several houses in that same area, the Hope Bridge and houses in that area as well, and several Bailey Bridges in the North Leeward area.

This list is by no means exhaustive, but certainly paints a picture of a government that after 14 years has not stopped pushing for the progress and development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Curriculum Unit Building at Kingstown * Built Learning Resource Centres at Sandy Bay, Chester Cottage, Colonarie, South Rivers, Evesham, Sans Souci, Biabou, Villa, Upper Cane Hall, Questelles, Layou, Fitz Hughes, and Union Island * Built a modern, well equipped School for Children with Special Needs at Georgetown * Extended several existing secondary schools, namely, Grammar School, Girls High School, Campden Park Secondary, Carapan, North Union, Troumaca, and Emmanuel Kingstown (a new modern building has since replaced this now called the JP Eustace Secondary) * Restored, extended and rebuilt existing physical facilities into secondary schools at Sandy Bay, Colonarie, Belair, Richmond Hill, and Buccament * Completed modern primary schools at Byera and Sandy Bay, built a replacement primary school at Colonarie, a modern primary school in Peruvian Vale and two ultra-modern primary schools at Bequia and Fair Hall, as well as extended the Lodge Village Primary School * Built a modern, state-of-the-art Automotive Repair Training Centre at the Technical College at Arnos Vale * Built three ultra-modern secondary schools at Edinboro, Peter’s Hope, and Union Island Impressive record * Constructed the Information The first two terms of the Unity Technology Centre of Excellence at Labour Party have a long list of Diamond (a modern Tourism Hospitality achievements some of which we will and Marine Institute is currently being chronicle this week. constructed nest to this facility) * In the first term as part of the first * Built three modern well-equipped 100 Days plan, the ULP administration clinics at Greggs, Biabou, and Retreat, as repaired all primary and secondary as a polyclinic at Stubbs (polyclinics schools and other educational institutions well of a similar type are now being between July and August 2001 at a cost constructed in Buccament and Mespo) of $5.5 million. * Repaired and renovated 21 clinics * Rebuilt and extended the Post Office nationwide, including pharmacies at and Old Ministerial Building (that Canouan, Biabou, Greggs, Retreat, building also got a face lift last year when Richland Park, Lowmans Windward, it was repainted) Evesham, Barroullie, Layou, Georgetown, * Built the Leeward Bus Terminal Mespotamia, Belair, Union Island, Sandy * Built the George Mc Intosh Bay, Owia, Byera, Calliaqua, Colonarie, Community Market at Paul’s Avenue, Hill and Diamond and cleaned the street area in front of the Park * Rebuilt Police Stations at Owia, Bishop’s College Sandy Bay, Mespotamia, and Rose Hall * Renovated Victoria Park and put in * Built modern Police Stations at floodlights (the National Lotteries Biabou, Questelles and Authority has spent over a million dollars Canouan, Georgetown on other improvements to the Victoria * Built a jetty at Mayreau Park over the years) * Built power facilities at Mayreau and * Restored, rebuilt and extended the Lowmans Leeward Peace Memorial Hall * Built over 1200 no-income, low* Built a modern 2-storey YWCA income, and middle income houses facility, including an Early Childhood * Built the historic Rabacca Bridge Educational Center, at the back of * Built the Canouan Jet Airport Grammar School * Built two Golden Years Activity * Purchased, rebuilt and extended the Centres for the Elderly at Cane Grove Cyrus Squash Complex as the National and Black Point Lotteries Headquarters * Rebuilt the entire Windward * Constructed a modern multi-million Highway, including several bridges (the dollar headquarters for the National bridge at Colonarie among them) Insurance Services * Built the multi-million dollar Sea * Built a modern, state-of-the-art two- Defence and Board Walk Project at Layou storey Technical Centre near to the Bishop’s College in Kingstown Conclusion * Built an ultra-modern Emergency This list is by no means exhaustive Operations Centre and National and does not include policy base Emergency Management Office (NEMO) programmes such as Universal Access to headquarters.

Secondary School, student loans for the * Built and enlarged modern facilities Economically Disadvantage, one hundred at the School of Nursing per cent mortgages for public servants * Restored and upgraded the old and scholarships in every corner of the Administrative Wing of the Milton Cato earth. Not captured in those Memorial Hospital, MCMH, (as noted achievements also is the YES earlier, rehabilitation work is currently the SET programme, Home taking place at the MCMH in the tune of Programme, Help for the Elderly and now the Lives to $5.8 million under the 10th European Live programme.

Union Development Fund Programme There is no doubt that in these last which focuses on health) fourteen years the ULP administration * Rebuilt and restored the former has delivered more to the people of St. Kim’s Rental Building as the modern Vincent and the Grenadines than any headquarters of the Housing and Land other government in the country’s history, Development Corporation (HLDC) the 17 years of NDP rule. We * Rebuilt, reconstructed, extended and including stand proud and ready to celebrate these modernized the Kingstown Fish Market 14 years and ready to vote the ULP for * Rebuilt and restored the former another 14 years and more for the Kim’s Rental Building as the modern magnificent work it has done so far. headquarters of the Housing and Land While we have not delivered perfect Development Corporation government, which can only be attained * Built and equipped a modern eternity, as the great Cuban National Public Library at Richmond Hill in revolutionary Camillo Cienfuegos would * Rebuilt and extended a modern say, “we are going good!”

recognizes the central role of agriculture to the economy of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and its considerable contribution to the livelihood and well-being of Vincentians throughout successive generations. Despite the importance and vibrancy of the agricultural sector, its dominant position in the life of Vincentians has declined substantially in the past decade, as large numbers of people left the sector/industry.

Three main causes have been identified for this decline: Government’s neglect and degradation of the sector; the imposition of ill-advised policies like terminating the banana credit system and failure to incorporate the established banana facilities overseas to expand the national diversification efforts; and The negative impact of a range of external factors such as the high cost of imported inputs, stringent quality standards imposed on our exported products, unstable markets, low prices offered for produce, all of which are essentially beyond the control of our farmers, processors and traders.

The mission of the New Democratic Party is to arrest the deteriorating situation and revitalize the agricultural sector to make it efficient, technologically prepared and internationally competitive, so that the sector can regain its place of prominence as a major contributor to the national economy, and guarantee the food and nutrition security of our people, and provide employment, income, and sustainable livelihood, while preserving the environment for present and future generations.

As a result, the NDP will establish a “Special Green Team” whose specific task will be to establish at least 1000 acreage of land under banana cultivation within our first year in office. Revisit the Banana Act, in an effort that will give farmers full control of the sector and create a ground crew program for the spraying of bananas that will be more effective in terms of cost and application.

In addition, we will foster a comprehensive approach to helping smallholder farmers prosper that includes income support, access to inputs, more effective tools and farm management practices, locally relevant knowledge, use of technologies where possible, and reliable markets. Introduce agricultural policies that support farmers in their efforts to better feed themselves and their communities. The NDP will also reintroduce the Credit System and make it available to all stakeholders in the Agro Sector. Proper guidelines will be instituted to ensure the system is run effectively to the benefit of all stakeholders in the sector. And seek funding for the rehabilitation of the existing feeder roads and the creation of new roads where possible to facilitate the access to new land areas for agriculture

determining which crops to plant, as well as the geographical suitability of the area to cultivate such crops.

Agro Processing The NDP will establish a functioning state operated agro lab that will encourage agro processing and also assist small business enterprises, especially those in the cottage industries that produce such items as pepper sauce, jams and jellies etc.

Agricultural Depots The NDP will re-establish agricultural depots throughout the islands so that farmers will have a centralized place for the selling of their produce.

Chemical Control While it was commonplace to use chemicals indiscriminately for food production, it is now relevant for a new approach to farming with a less chemical dependency. A registry of chemicals used in SVG will be created, and a consorted effort will be made by government to gradually decrease the use of toxins in food production.

Fisheries Development

The world seafood market, which encompasses fresh, canned and frozen seafood products, is expected to exceed $370 billion by 2015, according to Global Industry analysts. It is predicted the market will be fuelled by a rising global population, increased discretionary incomes, and technological advances such as packaging and improved transportation. Demand will be particularly strong in developing regions including Latin America and AsiaPacific. The overall market for aquaculture and fisheries is predicted to exceed 135 million tons by 2015. Other factors driving the market include a growing trend towards healthy eating.

With this in mind, SVG is poised to benefit immensely from this sector. In order to realize our full potential in fishing, the country first must use every available resource to get off the European Union (EU) Black List that the present regime has failed to do for almost fourteen years. To enable SVG to benefit tremendously from the fisheries sector, the New Democratic Party will: 1) Do what is required to get St. Vincent and the Grenadines off the EU Black List as it relates to fishing 2) Upgrade and reopen existing fishing facilities to ensure that fisher folks are involved in the management of these facilities.

Livestock 3) Assist fisher folks with the usage of fish location devices to enhance fish Livestock is a key part of farming in catch.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A 4) Provide credit facilities and substantial amount of root crop, concessions to fisher folks in the industry vegetable and tree crop farmers own livestock. The NDP will support efforts to to enable them to buy boats, engines and other resources. improve the health and productivity of 5) Spearhead an overall program to livestock–particularly chickens, goats, lift the status of the fisheries sector to sheep, pigs and cows–by improving national development by introducing animal genetics and veterinary care. education awareness, starting from the schools and communities.

Land use policy 6) Seek technical assistance, with a view to open a fish cannery in SVG to The New Democratic Party will introduce a land use policy that will give capitalise on the amount of fish and fish better directions for land usage as we try products available.

7) Encourage the usage of ICT in to make maximum benefit from the fisheries in an effort to upgrade the limited lands available to us for food sector to maximize gains and also for production and other use. safety, especially in the case of being lost at sea.

Crops identification policy 8) Explore the possibility of creating by-products such as the marketing of The NDP government will, after blackish oil. careful marketing analysis, identify Therefore, Vincentians must go to the specific crops for development. This will polls when the next generals are called, give farmers and other stakeholders a and vote for the NDP. better understanding and direction in

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 11.

Views

Marbles, Button-Tip and Knucks

“Various balls of stone were found on excavation near Mohenjo-daro. Marbles are also often mentioned in Roman literature, like Ovid’s poem Nux about nuts playing and there are many examples of marbles from ancient Egypt.

They were commonly made of clay, stone adventurous (and often the better skilled) player may challenge or glass.” — Source unknown opponents to play a “two shot” or “three shot” game — risking a greater MY USA-BASED DAUGHTER, Liselle, number of marbles being placed in the recently posted a photograph of me on her Facebook page. It was a photo that circle.

There were times when the was probably developed at Alleyne’s marbles would be scarce. This may Photo Studio (in the building that now houses George’s Plaza on Back Street in have been due to the heavy losses some players may have encountered.

Kingstown). The black-and-white photograph captured one of my teenage This would then give rise to the moments when I was standing on Back version called “button-tip”. The marbles that would normally be Street in an area just east of Das placed in the circle would then be Snackette (now Music Centre). There I replaced by buttons taken from our was, with my Philips Audio Cassette in shirts. As boys, we saw nothing hand, listening to some of the popular wrong with mutilating our school music of that time (probably Isaac Haynes or Percy Sledge). My fluffy Afro uniforms in the interest of competing was motionless in the wind, having been in such games. It was often quite a neatly patted down with a book or piece different story when we got to our of stiff cardboard. The upper three shirt respective homes and were required to account for the missing items. buttons were undone (probably to However, we trusted that our skills display the few grains of emerging hair would have been sufficient to “win on my chest). Liselle’s comment back” the buttons and have them beckoned a response for the exposed reaffixed to our shirts before getting chest. My initial thoughts had been to home. That did not always happen. make a comical comment. And those thoughts have generated the content for Sometimes the shirts will mysteriously disappear from our this week’s article. Some readers may not readily see the relationship between parents’ view until we could find the photograph described and the topic. replacement buttons.

The game of “knucks” was a But, think again. My knee-jerk reaction version of marbles that had been to Liselle’s comment about the unbuttoned shirt was to quip that those designed for the brave and tough (and foolish). Unlike the regular game of upper buttons were missing. It was to then proceed to jokingly comment that I marbles, knucks required that a small may have been playing “button-tip” with pit be dug. This would be approximately 3-4 inches in diameter those mysteriously missing buttons. and 2-3 inches deep. The other And then I wondered how many of aspects of the regular game of today’s readers would be familiar with marbles would apply in relation to the game “button-tip”. determining who plays first. The Most children of my generation enjoyed playing marbles. Many of us players then seek to cast their marbles as close to the hole as would have purchased our glass possible without going in. The spheres from Mr. Prescott’s Store in players then determine whose marble Middle Street. His store stocked is closest to the pit. This person is almost everything that our simple deemed the winner. The losers then communities needed. He sold rope, bicycle parts, cutlasses, Mother Goose have to place a closed fist (with knuckles exposed) beside the hole. (the old time iron), the one-burner pump stove, and a host of other items. The winner has the “privilege” of pitching (flicking from his fingers) his There is where we procured our marbles at the opponent’s knuckles supplies of regular sized marbles as until he (the opponent) is able to well as the “more prestigious” larger direct the marbles into the hole. sized marbles called Gombes. OneMany knuckles were bruised and Love Bassy Alexander may have to correct my spelling of the last word in swollen at the end of such escapades.

Many friendships were temporarily the preceding sentence.

The game of marbles would involve disbanded too. This was especially so when some adventurous youths several players. A circle among us ventured to replace the (approximately 12-14 inches in regular glass marbles with the steel diameter) would be drawn in the sand. Two lines are then drawn. One bearings that were secured from the would be positioned 3-4 feet from the auto-mechanic shops in the area.

While these “steel marbles” were circle and the second one will be placed approximately 4-5 feet further much more difficult to pitch, the champion players who developed the away. The first line indicated the position where the individual must be skills and techniques of using these standing when seeking to throw (roll) were understandably feared.

We learnt a lot from playing those their marble as close as possible to the second line to determine the order games of marbles, button-tip, and knucks. In many ways, these games of play. The person whose marble encouraged us to develop character gets nearest to the line would play first and the sequence would continue and courage. And, especially while until all of the players had their turn playing knucks, the losers among us learnt how to bear pain. of seeking to dislodge the marbles that would have previously been Send comments, criticisms & placed in the circle. Conservative suggestions to players would engage in risking one julesferdinand@gmail.com marble per game. The more

Time to mobilise mass support against domestic violence THE YEAR 2015 will mark 15 years since the signing of the Millennium Development Goals Declaration, and 20 years of the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women. That Conference produced a Platform of Action on the twelve critical areas of concern for the advancement of women: the persistent and increasing burden of poverty on women; inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to education and training; inequalities and inadequacies in and unequal access to health care and related services; violence against women; the effects of armed or other kinds of conflict on women, including those living under foreign occupation; inequality in economic structures and policies, in all forms of productive activities and in access to resources; inequality between men and women in the sharing of power and decisionmaking at all levels; insufficient mechanisms at all levels to promote the advancement of women; lack of respect for and inadequate promotion and protection of the human rights of women; stereotyping of women and inequality in women’s access to and participation in all communication systems, especially in the media; gender inequalities in the management of natural resources and in the safeguarding of the environment; and persistent discrimination against and violation of the rights of the girl child.

These issues remain an excellent framework against which to measure the progress of women, taking into account the provisions of the Millennium Development Goals. At the local level, the outcomes of the First National Congress of Women held in March, 2012, provide a framework for assessing the status of women in SVG within the context of the Beijing Platform for Action, and related Conferences.

That Congress paid attention to Violence Against Women, the fourth Critical Area of Concern, which is the visibly raw face of the afflictions women suffer, as outlined in the other areas of the Congress Statement. It is the face of abuse that is most neglected, and can make null and void any gains achieved in the other eight critical areas of concern. As abuses continue, many go un-reported because of the lack of both skills to make the report, and the necessary support services. The fact that a mentally challenged woman was raped and then burnt to death proves that there is no discrimination in committing violence against women — none are exempt. More and more women are becoming statistics over the years, and more is required at the level of Policy and the Justice System.

It is therefore heartening to recall the pledge by Commissioner of Police,

Michael Charles, that he will have a focus on the arrest of rape and other forms of physical assault on women; and Senator Camillo Gonsalves’ statement in Parliament that he would like to see more women in the Honourable House of Parliament, that is, in Leadership and Decisionmaking at that level.. A definite wind of change is blowing as a report of violence has travelled to the High Court, and the Victim is able to see her justice. High Court Judge Kathy Ann Latchoo in a recent ruling, sent a strong message to the perpetrators or would be perpetrators of violence against women, when she handed down a 20-year sentence on a perpetrator for attempting to murder his former lover, by chopping her several times with a cutlass.

The Judge had this to say before handing down the penalty: “The incidence of violence against women in our communities has become a serious problem, and the court must attempt to curtail this by its sentencing policies. Unless it does so, the perpetrators of violence against women may very well believe that they have a licence to do so unimpeded. Our sentencing policy must necessarily be directed at changing behaviour, especially those abhorrent to human decency,” Justice Latchoo stressed, that domestic violence attracted a high cost. - “Violence in domestic relations damages not only the victim and the immediate family, but the country as a whole, since every nation stands on the foundation blocks of families”.

Justice Latchoo suggested that “a holistic approach to the scourge of domestic violence is needed.”

The women’s movements have long called for more levels of support in eliminating violence against women.

Let us applaud these Champions and Pillars of Support who have emerged from the Justice and Parliamentary systems. The women’s movements must now call louder for the National Policy on Women, and the comprehensive Legislative Framework that will bring the fulfilment of the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women. Let us mobilise the critical mass of support from schools, churches, NGOs, youth clubs, associations and other groups to confront the very real problem of violence against women, instead of ignoring it or blaming the victim. We can make it happen!

As we approach International Women’s Day — March 8 — an old Chinese Proverb, used during the high resolve of Beijing is still relevant — When Sleeping Women Awake, Mountains will Move!

Nelcia Robinson - Coordinator Committee for the Development of Women

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12. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Killing the standpipes: A crime against humanity

people and abolish the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002.

The super-rich must pay tax. We will cut ties with Taiwan and set up a joint-venture tuna fishing scheme with China, to create thousands of new jobs IN THE SVG HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, on Tuesday 3 March level of unemployment and crime among other socio- and earn hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue 2015, the ULP Minister of Health told the people of economic problems. annually for our country.

SVG, that the Ministry of Health and the Environment Punishing poor people, by killing standpipes, to A Green government would bring smart meters, intends to phase out the use of public baths and save the incompetent ULP regime a few thousand which use the key charge system, to SVG. standpipes. dollars, is completely stupid, especially in light of Households could then top up their water meter Poor people cannot afford to buy piped water. the fact that the ULP regime granted the super-rich key, as they do with mobile phones, whenever they According to CWSA statistics, during the period of of Mustique and Canouan blanket tax and customs want, in amounts that are affordable to them, This 2006 to 2010, the average number of household duty exemptions. (See for example the Mustique way, no household in SVG would ever have their water disconnections per month was 360. Over this Act No 48 of 2002.) It is better to abolish this Act water cut off again.

5-year period, this means that 21,600 households and others, and collect the hundreds of millions of A Green government would also cut the price of were disconnected from the mains water supply. If dollars of tax from the super-rich of Mustique and water by 50% and abolish the water meter rental the average household is 3 or 4 persons, then the Canouan. number of people cut off from the piped water Taiwan uses SVG’s deep sea fish licence to catch charge. The reconnection charge of $100 would be abolished too, because with smart meters, it would supply over this 5-year period was between 64,800 tuna in the Atlantic Ocean, but does not pay tax in be redundant. and 86,400.

SVG. From a macro-economic perspective, this is It would be a crime against humanity if the ULP complete madness. Taiwan should pay taxes of It is repugnant and immoral to kill the regime took away all the standpipes, which are used hundreds of millions of dollars annually, and the standpipes that provide safe drinking water for poor extensively by poor people to get safe drinking water Taiwan ships which are recognised as local SVG people, whilst maintaining hundreds of millions and and sustain their life. They cannot use river water fishing vessels, should off-load their Atlantic fish dollars of tax and customs duty exemptions to as this is polluted by chemicals used in agriculture catch in SVG. Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and production. Standpipes have been used in SVG for However, the ULP regime turns a blind eye to Canouan, and turning a blind eye to Taiwan not offover 50 years. this wickedness. Rather than collect millions in loading its Atlantic tuna fish catch in SVG. It is utter economic madness to kill the taxes from Taiwan, the ULP regime would prefer to Vote Green for a change of government, to keep standpipes, because it will force thousands of poor kill the standpipes that provide safe drinking water standpipes and to stop this crime against humanity. people to use unclean water and expose themselves for poor people, in order to save a few thousand to the risk of illnesses, such as cholera. Poor people dollars.

SVG Green Party are already suffering a lot as SVG is going through A Green Government will increase the number of www.svggreenparty.org its worst economic period ever, with a very high standpipes to provide safe drinking water for poor

The Copyright issue GIVEN the recent outcry by promoters, shopkeepers, bar operators, and others over implementation of collection of Copyright fees for users of music, THE VINCENTIAN, in keeping with a service it began some time ago, shares some information that it considers to be fundamental to arriving at an understanding of Copyright and the rights inherent.

This is not a commentary on or an assessment of the rates for fees, licences, etc., that come with the obligation to protect the use of the works of persons protected by a Copyright Association.

somebody. It, in effect, says that if you created it, you own it.

It is, however, the Copyright Law of a specific country or region that assures that ownership Under Copyright Law, as is the case with the Copyright Act of 2003 of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, permission must be obtained before Copyright works can be used.

As well as existing in original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, copyright protection is also afforded to: sound recordings, films, broadcasts (including broadcasts via wire or cable), and typographical arrangements of What is Copyright? published editions.

The ownership that Copyright Law Fundamentally, Copyright protects grants comes with several rights. original literary, dramatic, musical These rights include the right: to and artistic works. reproduce the work, to prepare It allows an original work to be derivative works, to distribute copies, considered a property that is owned by to perform the work and to display the work publicly.

These are the rights of the creator, unless they are willingly given up.

No one can violate them legally. This means that, unless you say otherwise, no one can perform a piece written by you, or make copies of it, even with acknowledgement, unless you give the OK.

What is ECCO?

Grenadines is a full member, is known as a Collective Management Organization, primarily because its role is to administer certain intellectual property rights on behalf of its members in the Eastern Caribbean and, through reciprocal agreements, of creators throughout the world.

ECCO collects fees by issuing licences to music users — clubs, shops, bars, DJs, promoters/organizers of festivals, business places (who pipe music during business hours) granting them permission and authority to use the copyright work under its purview.

In order to make royalty payments to its members, ECCO needs to know, for example, what music is being used.

ECCO uses a digital monitoring system to monitor what certain audio and audio-visual stations play, with some radio stations also providing ECCO with detailed reports of the music they play.

For major live and fixed calendared events such as Carnivals, ECCO sends its agents to obtain information first hand on the songs performed.

Due to the huge number of public performances that take place every year at bars, nightclubs, hotels, concerts, it is impossible to track every performance that occurs; therefore, ECCO distributes Licences with fixed rates as per nature of operation.

Basic role of ECCO

The Eastern Caribbean The basic role of any Copyright Copyright Organization Organisation, ECCO and its members (ECCO), of which St. included, is: to grant licences to music Vincent and the users (radio and television stations,

restaurants, bars, hotels, DJ’s, promoters, etc.) for the public performance of music (in the countries concerned); collect licence fees; and distribute royalties to its members and foreign copyright owners, whose works ECCO also controls through reciprocal agreements.

On the latter point, it is worth noting that Copyright Organisations are networked. That is to say that the Copyright organizations in the United States are obligated to act to protect all the work that is under copyright by a colleague organisation and vice versa.

So that the work of a Vincentian artiste registered with ECCO is protected in the USA, and the American artiste is protected in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

What is universally accepted is that fees, call it what you want, must be collected under Copyright Law on behalf of the creators of work, whether that work be literary, dramatic, musical and/or artistic works.

Not to pay a fee or pay for a licence to allow the use of the works of another person/group is an infringement of the law.

What may be up for discussion is the rates of payment which, while always computed on a realistic benchmark, can be modified/adjusted to suit the given situation of a particular country and/or particular situation.

All in all, there is no excuse for not wanting to pay for the use of the property of others, especially if the use of that property is for gain.

(Partial Source: ECCO Website)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 13.

People

Bruce-Lyle still available enjoying his retirement.

“It is relaxing. I feel “MY LEGAL MIND will very relaxed, but I intend always be available to St. to keep myself busy,” Vincent and the said Bruce-Lyle, a native Grenadines, and the of Ghana and citizen of Caribbean.” this country, who Those were the words cherishes his belonging of retired High Court to the Caribbean.

Judge Frederick BruceA sports enthusiast Lyle, during a telephone and still active squash interview with THE player, the retired judge VINCENTIAN on intends to get more Wednesday. involved in sporting His retirement took activities during his effect from February 17, retirement.

2015, but Bruce-Lyle had Reflecting on his 36 proceeded on 249 days years in the legal vacation leave prior to profession, during which his retreat. he served as High Court According to the Judge for 15 years, learned jurist, he is Bruce-Lyle said, “There

by HAYDN HUGGINS

were good times and bad times, but overall, I have enjoyed my career. There was overall camaraderie with my colleagues on the bench, quite a few of whom have gone to the great beyond.”

When asked, what were the most memorable cases he presided over in this jurisdiction, Bruce-Lyle said, “I would not want to mention any names, but I had some challenging cases, and I faced some challenging cases.” But he added that “Overall, I enjoyed myself.”

Bruce-Lyle was called

to the bar in Ghana in 1979. He served as High Court Judge for 15 years doing stints in Antigua/Barbuda, St. Kitts/Nevis and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He also served as Magistrate in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, British Virgin Islands (BVI), and Belize, as well as Chief Magistrate in Antigua/Barbuda.

He took up duties here as Magistrate in 1989 following his stint in Belize, and was subsequently elevated to Senior Magistrate. He left for the BVI in the

early 1990s, where he served as the only Magistrate in Tortola until 1997. He was then appointed Chief Magistrate in Antigua and Barbuda until 2002 before being appointed High Court Judge in Antigua/Barbuda. He was transferred to St Retired High Court Kitts/Nevis, where he Judge Frederick Bruceserved in that capacity Lyle won the respect of until early 2003, before those who came before being transferred to him in the courts and of these shores as High those with whom he Court Judge. He was Senior High Court Judge interacted. here up to the time of his outspoken but fair. THE retirement.

VINCENTIAN wishes Bruce-Lyle has been him a happy retirement. described as diligent,

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14. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Vincentian elected to NY State Supreme Court

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

VINCENTIAN-BORN JUDGe Sharon M.J. Commissiong

Gianelli has been elected for a 14-year-term to the New York State Supreme

Court in Nassau County, Long Island, a New York City suburb.

Justice Commissiong Gianelli, 52, the niece of prominent local lawyers Samuel and Bertram Commissiong, was previously elected to serve two terms as a District Court judge in Nassau Country’s Third District.

Justice Commissiong Gianelli — who was born in Questelles and attended the Kingstown Preparatory School before migrating to New York in 1973, when she was 10 years old — told THE VINCENTIAN, in an exclusive interview, that it is a “genuine honour” to serve the people of New York “with mighty expectations I intend to meet.

“Reflecting on my own Vincentian heritage — and the changes America has experienced in the last few decades — reminds me to always be gracious and hardworking in my position,” she said. “While few of my background have come before me, my wish is that many will follow.

“I’ve been elected to the New York State Supreme Court, and it feels truly great,” she added, noting that the Supreme Court is the highest trial level court in New York. The court handles civil and criminal cases that exceed the authority of the state’s lower courts.

Commissiong Gianelli said the law is about equal treatment for all, stating that there should be “no room for prejudice, nor time for silliness and unnecessary delay.

“It’s important to always remember that the law affects every day human beings,” she said.

“There is no Justice Sharon M.J. weakness in Commissiong Gianelli says her hearing out all core values were formed and sides before forged in St. Vincent and the coming to a Grenadines by her extended firm decision.”

Commissiong family, teachers and friends.

Gianelli said she is “a proud Prior to her Vincentian,” pointing out appointment to the that her values, work District Court by Nassau ethic and core principles County Executive were “forged and formed” Thomas Suozzi, she in St. Vincent and the served as majority Grenadines, and “further counsel to the Nassau developed and honed County Legislature from here in America”.

2000-2005.

She said she was Currently, she serves “raised by a village of on the New York State parents, grandparents, Judiciary Advisory aunts, uncles, sisters, Council, and is a member brothers, cousins, of the New York State teachers, friends and Bar Association; Nassau others of good will”, and County Bar Association; that she was “honoured Nassau County Women’s and humbled to have Bar Association; and, been bestowed this “quite proudly”, the blessing.”

Criminal Courts Bar She said she will Association of Nassau always be mindful that County. her newly-elevated Justice Commissiong position comes with Gianelli is among just “great responsibility to three Vincentian judges observe the law and [to] reportedly sitting on the ensure that justice is bench in the New York done.”

Tri-State area.

As a former president Justice Sylvia Ash — of the Nassau County whose father, the late District Court Judge Rudolph “Fire” Ash, was Association, as well as an from Kingstown Hill — erstwhile social worker serves on the bench at in the City of New York, Kings County State Justice Commissiong Supreme Court in Gianelli said her Brooklyn in the Civil signature work began Division. when she was chosen to Judge Emille Cox — a preside over the St. Vincent and the Adolescent Diversion Grenadines Grammar Part (ADP) — one of only School alumnus and nine statewide pilot former master, who hails projects to handle from Union Island and adolescent misdemeanor lived in New Montrose, and felony cases.

Kingstown before An alumna of migrating to New York — Brooklyn Law School and is a Supervising Judge of Syracuse University’s Compensation, Camden School of Social Work in Vicinage, south New upstate New York, Jersey.

Commissiong Gianelli He has been a previously served as an supervising judge in the Assistant District Division of Workers’ Attorney in the Compensation, Manhattan District Department of Labor and Attorney’s Office and as Workforce Development, counsel to the New York in New Jersey for 3 ½ State Grievance years and a judge since Committee.

2003.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 15.

16. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 17.

Youth/Education

KCCU supports TSSS Penn Relay team

Technology as an Agent of Music AS THE MUSIC INDUSTRY evolves along with society, no more do we use cassette players or records. Music is now downloaded directly to your phone, tablets and other devices through applications like iTunes. In the making of modern music, quite a lot of technology is used, such as: computer software, mixing boards, editing programs and much more.

Through modern technology, your favourite songs from whatever genre you may prefer can always be with you. Music can be carried on almost all new devices. As music is now easily popularized through the fact that any member of the community may get to listen to it upon their desire, it has become quite an efficient way to spread a message on any topic chosen.

The St. Vincent Grammar School Young Leaders, with the help of Mr Mark Cyrus, released a song entitled “You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide!”

The Kingstown Co-operative Credit Union Limited, on Monday 2nd March, 2015, presented to the Thomas Saunders Secondary School a cheque in an amount of three thousand dollars (EC$3,000), in support of the students attending this year’s Penn Relays in Philadelphia.

KCCU is a proud supporter of the school, named after one of our founding fathers, Bro. Thomas Saunders, who served as president of the Credit Union from 1973 to 1977.

Bro. Terral Mapp, representing the Board of Directors, made the presentation. He expressed that it gave him great privilege to make the donation, not only because of the late Thomas Saunders being a common development factor, but because this school, though still very young, has been exceptionally successful at track and field.

“The Thomas Saunders Secondary has won the Interschools athletics meet numerous times, and is the first school here in St Vincent and the Grenadines to participate in the Penn Relays, with this year making 5 consecutive years of participation,” Mapp said.

“You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide!”

[INTRO: JAYDEN KALONDA] St. Vincent Grammar School Young Leaders 2015 Responsible Navigation; Building Our Nation That’s our theme!

[CHORUS: DANTE OLLIVIERRE] You can run and you can't hide Choose to stand instead with pride All of these are illegal acts Don’t become a part of the pack You can run and you can't hide Choose to stand instead with pride Bullying and all the rest Can put you to the test…

They seem like no big deal Think about how you might feel

Happily doing it light and gay Hacking is a serious crime Are you ready to do the time?

To you it seems just like a game But hacking, it's just not the same Lives are destroyed, information lost!

Have you ever considered the cost?

But as usual you don't care But is not my head shape like a pear That was supposed to be funny (ha-haha) but Since you hacked me I don't have any money When you watch me you see a wall But like humpty dumpty I can fall You don't enter you trespass Like express mail… You work fast [CHORUS]

[VERSE 1: SEAN SOLOMON AND LESLIE ISAIAH RODNEY] Bully one, bully two What did I ever do to you?

Two, three and four Please don’t do it anymore Five, six, seven, eight Cyber bullying ain't so great Nine, ten you did it again…

Man these games got to end!

Stroke by stroke, the damage is done All the while, you think it's fun You're just there planning a scheme While I’m depending on my self-esteem You tell lies in every post Lies that spread like butter toast You share these lies ruin my face And then you leave without a trace How far will you go? (How far…)

Man this ain't no comedy show So I say this once again Not as an enemy but just as a friend…

One plus one, equal two Cyber bullying you shouldn't do [CHORUS] [VERSE 2: ALEXANDER CYRUS AND SEAN SOLOMON] Tap, tap. You punch away

[VERSE 3: MIKHAIL BROWNE] Sending photos back and forth Not realizing what they are worth Smile and pose at which you stare Eyes light up like a chandelier Grinning now from ear to ear Boy it's almost hard to bear Fingers flying across the keys Calling out, stop now please!

Not before long the damage is done And here you are a carnival clown Putting up this great impression Needing some intervention Left behind are scars and shame Falling from claim to fame When tempted to send that snap Better get up and take nap!

[CHORUS] [OUTRO: LESLIE ISAIAH RODNEY] No one takes the time to think Just like how you normally blink Stealing others works seems like a joke But before long you going to choke Plagiarism is what it's called Leaving you feel so very small I think I have said enough because This is going to end very rough

Colin John, President of the KCCU (2nd from right front) makes presentation of support to members of the TSSS team to the 2015 Penn Relays.

Mapp also highlighted that KCCU, mindful that its own financial health is heavily dependent on the health and the development of the economy and the society, is committed to contributing towards nationwide development. “We are partnering with schools and other institutions across this beautiful country in an effort to economically improve our society. “We are investing in you [the students] so that you can, one day, make your mark on the world,” Mapp said.

These are exciting times for KCCU, Mapp told the gathering.

Last year, he noted, the Credit Union launched its Website,

‘KlickKCCU’, with modern online banking services, among many other attractive features. More recently, the KCCU merged with the Marriaqua Cooperative Credit Union in an effort to strengthen that institution, and to provide a wider range of services to persons in that area and its environs.

Mapp assured the public of bigger and more exciting things from KCCU. “I wish those students participating a successful journey, as they go out as ambassadors of their school and of St Vincent and the Grenadines - Give your best..,” Mapp concluded.

18. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 19.

Community

Becket Benefit Organisation formalised THE LAYOU-BASED Becket Benefit Organization (BBO) is now formalised.

This follows a general meeting of January 16, 2015, held at the Louis Straker Resource Centre, Layou, during which an Executive Committee was elected to run the affairs of the organization for the next two years.

The Executive includes: President Marcus Martin; VicePresident - Vernon Mc Dowall; Treasurer Crawford Young; Assistant Treasurer Irie Hannaway; Secretary - Reesa Matthews; Assistant Secretary - Clinteisha Prince; Public Relations Officer - Osbert Young; Assistant Public Relations Officer Winston ‘Chief’ Davis; Press Secretary Vakeesha John; Chaplain: Roslyn Francis.

Founder of the organization, Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus, reserves a seat on the Executive.

A release from the organization, received on Tuesday of this week, describes Becket as not only the founder of, but moreso the inspiration for the organisation.

BBO finds its purpose in the person of Becket, a native of Layou and this country’s foremost, internationally recognized performing and recording artiste, whose life’s mission bears adherence to Cesar Chavez’s proclamation that, ‘...we cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community; our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and our own’.

(Cesar Chavez was an American farm worker, labour leader and civil rights activist, who, with Dolores Huerta, cofounded the National Farm Workers Association.)

Towards that ideal, the BBO aims to engender ‘..love, peace and unity within the community of Layou,’ through, ‘…assisting, guiding and supporting the community in health, education, sports and culture, social services, disaster and the environment’.

Even before its formalization, Becket launched his intention,

and that of his organization, with a Benefit Concert, dubbed ‘A night for Patsy’, held on December 26, 2014, at the Layou Hard Court, in Members of the ‘Becket’ benefit organization with Founder Alston ‘Becket’ aid of raising funds to Cyrus (seated left) and President Marcus Martin (standing 2nd from left). assist Ms. Patricia ‘Patsy’ Matthews of Layou, with her vital, overseas medical needs.

This event was followed by a barbeque, on January 29, for the same purpose.

And as the BBO endeavours to fulfil its aims and objectives, it is expected to stage a series of fund-raising efforts since, as the release said, ‘…this (BBO) is not a bunch of rich persons.

These are people who give their time in trying to raise funds so that they can build their community’.

Plans are afoot to host a “Beach Splash’ this Easter Monday (April 6), at the Layou Waterfront, and the organization is anticipating the continued support for a cause led by Alston Becket Cyrus, who, with his many accomplishments, hasbrought recognition and pride to SVG in general and the town of Layou in particular.

Plants in Bottles/Bottle Gardens FERNS, MOSSES and many slow-growing plants are ideal for growing in bottles. Plants last much longer in bottles because they are protected from dust, pests, draughts and fumes.

Here are a few tips: 1. Glass containers are very suitable for making bottle gardens 2. Jars, goblets, fish bowls and many other glass containers can be used for bottle gardens.

3. Bottle gardens look very attractive if planted properly with suitable plants.

Next week, we will look at preparation for your bottle garden.

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20. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Third party means complications Dear George, I AM A VERY jealous man, and I have told my fiancée that I do not want to be put in any situation where I would have to deal with her involvement with another man.

I got the shock of my life when I discovered she had been involved with another woman.

She confessed this to me thinking that I would be ok with it, seeing that I have suggested to her in the past the idea of a 3 some with another woman.

My male friends are telling me what a lucky man I am to be in this situation, but I do not think so. I have heard stories that when a woman is involved with another woman, she usually ends up leaving the man she is with. I do

not want this to happen.

I want to tell my girl to leave this woman alone, but also want to have a go with both of them together, before I do so.

Is this a chance worth taking?

relationship will bring complications that not even you will be able to handle or solve. Keep it down to one and only one.

Now that your fiancée

knows that you are not ok with her getting involved with another person, male or female, she should be in a position to make a decision with respect to

Jealous See.

Going over the hill

Dear Jealous See,

Dear George,

If you plan to play with fire, then you must entertain the possibility of getting burned at some point.

You cannot let your fantasies sidetrack you from laying the groundwork on which you hope to build a fruitful relationship and marriage. You need to take a position and stick to it. Flip-flopping between 1 and 3 will not get you anywhere. The involvement of any 3rd party in your

pain more often than not, and that too is a ‘turn off’. She does not I AM NOW painfully discovering that I am no consider having sex in the car and out in the longer interested in being with a woman who wide open field as exciting anymore. The is going over the hill.

My wife and I have been woman I married 25 married for 25 years, and years ago is now a total all the signs are there of stranger to me, and I do not want to hang her going over the hill, and I am not in the least around.

Call me whatever you bit excited about it. want, but I know how I She does not want to feel, and he who feels it do the things that we knows it. She does not used to do to keep the know it yet, but I am on excitement in our sex my way out. lives, and I am bored or turned off. She cries for

Goner

Dear Goner, It would help considerably if you take a moment to cast your

which direction she should go.

Try to work things out with her, with the help of a counsellor if needs be, and who knows, this bump in the road might

mind back to that day 25 years ago, when you looked your beautiful bride in her eyes, and promised to love and cherish her for better or worse, and till death do you part.

Before you decide to run off on the woman who entrusted her heart and life to you, be a man and tell her that you lied to her 25 years ago, and no longer wish to continue with her and why. In doing so, try to keep in mind that you too are going over the same hill, and your shortcomings may show up differently than those

end up being the kind of booster shot from which your relationship can benefit.

George

of your wife. Now is not the time to focus on what either of you cannot do any more, but rather on what you can discover together, having benefited from being together for a quarter of a century.

This phase that you are going through, while it may be understandable, will require you getting some professional help so that you can get through it, without causing regrettable damage to your marriage.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Help elders in your family. You have your own family to consider as well. Go after your professional goals. Do not get involved in joint financial ventures.

Be aware that minor accidents or injury may prevail if you are preoccupied.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Minor health problems will flare up if you don't take care of yourself. You need to do something energetic and different. Take care of any pressing health problems. Sudden romantic connections may be short lived.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You can easily impress others with your generous nature. Emotional relationships will be plentiful if you attend group activities. Take care of the needs of elders in your family. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Offer consolation, but don't give them any direction. You may have personal problems, but professional duties might be pressing. Consider selling your homemade crafts at the flea market.

You may have problems with those you live with.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Try looking into new ways to make extra money. Be cautious handling tools, machinery, or dangerous objects.

Look out for yourself this week. Make some notes regarding the changes that you should make.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Socialize with friends, but don't overspend on lavish entertainment. Let them know what your intentions are.

Hold your temper and refrain from doing anything that might cause injury.

You will have a tendency to exaggerate, which will lead to major confrontations with loved ones.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Be careful to avoid wrong doings. The emotional state of peers may cause a problem for you. Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of. You need to get out if you want to meet potential partners.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You can get a promotion if you put in a little extra detail. Update and review your personal investments. You can find out interesting information if you get a chance to talk to people you respect. Get more involved in group efforts at work.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy. Don't exhaust yourself or minor health problems will set in. You may be out of sorts If you have been extravagant or have let children or friends take advantage of you financially. Take whatever time you can to get to know each other all over again.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Plan to visit friends or relatives. You can discuss your intentions and ideas with your colleagues or friends this week. Do not yield to children or relatives when they really don't deserve it. Don't allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Beware of colleagues who don't have your best interests in mind. Spend some quality time with your lover.

Daydreaming will be your downfall. Your own small business on the side sounds pretty lucrative.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Be prepared to have relatives or close friends introduce you to new and exciting individuals. You could easily lose your temper at work. Don't push your opinions or ideas on others. Your emotional attitude with respect to your status and direction in society may be unrealistic. Don't bang your head against a wall.

ACROSS 1.Blank 5. Driver’s ID issuer 8. Rickles or Knotts 11. The “A” of “A-Rod” 12. Shad __ 13. Group of raked leaves 14. “__ Ha’i” 15. Cause disaffection 17. Critical examiner 19. “Casablanca” role 20. Green and pekoe 21. Shelley work 22. British potato chip 24. Consecrated 28. __ Paulo (Brazilian city) 29. Very wide shoe width 30. “I’ve __ enough!”

31. Peeved 34. Dreads 36. Berlin’s land (abbr.)

37. __ cuts 38. “__ keep” 40. Runway’s spot 43. Soaking 45. Impresses 46. Ship parcels 47. NYC transit org.

48. Soak through 49. Mommy’s three 50. __ capita 51. Betting term DOWN

alliance (abbr.)

1.Rum cake 23. Flowed 2. Actor Ladd 24. River floor 3. Connection 25. Followed 4. Outcasts secretly 5. Lady’s and closely garment 26. Piercing 6. Majority spot 7. Kitty doc 27. Dentist’s 8. Loud noises degree (abbr.)

9. Gymnast 29. Always, Korbut poetically 10. Born 32. Was a girl13. Loses color watcher 16. Excursion 33. Bark 18. Bark 34. Representsnappishly ing 21. Juan’s “rah” 35. City on the 22. 1860

Rio Grande (2 wds.)

37. What Groucho smoked 38. Line-__ veto 39. Decades

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2015. 21.

40. Poker fee 41. Water grass 42. Three make a tbsp.

43. Compass reading 44. Little demon

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22. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

People

Horne lauded in Rose Hall COMMONWEALTH Queen’s celebrated in his Young Leaders award community of Rose Hall. winner, Kenville Horne, has On Monday 23rd been recognized and February, 2015, residents of that community and others Left: Kenville ‘Fonando’ from surrounding Horne receives an villages, converged at the award from Ms. Anesta Rose Hall Community Rodney.

Centre to celebrate

Horne’s historic achievement.

Horne is among 60 young persons from the Commonwealth, and only 6 from the entire Caribbean, to be recognized for their outstanding service to community, by the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Committee.

On being so recognized, Horne was offered an online course from the University of Cambridge, and in June, will travel to the United Kingdom for a one-week visit, during which time he would receive his award from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 11 at Buckingham Palace.

was an employee at the Division of Physical Education that he started the Kenville Horne Sports Academy, with the objective to reach out to disadvantaged and at risk youths in Rose Hall.

Rodney recalls Horne leaving his Lowmans Hill residence to travel each week to “train the children in Rose Hall.

For this, we must say to him. Rose Hall is proud of you,” Rodney continued.

In closing, Rodney implored Horne to remember where he had come from, and to be humble. “Humility is there to guide you,” she advised him.

From humble beginnings

Other tributes

At the celebration, community activist and business woman, Anesta Rodney M.B.E., paid tribute to Horne, who is known affectionately as ‘Fonando’ in Rose Hall.

Rodney said that Horne grew up in Rose Hall, and from a tender age he was destined to find a life for himself.

“I am happy, happy, real glad for ‘Fonando’,” she declared.

The nationally respected community activist described Horne as having a big heart, saying, “He has grown to be a little man and a big man at the same time, with ambition, and because of that we are sitting here in this hall tonight.”

Horne, a full time reported with THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, was born to Bellmar Horne of Rose Hall and former Police Officer Osborne Phillips of Bequia.

Rodney traced Horne’s early upbringing and highlighted his rough past, noting that he could not have run up the ladder, but instead toiled on his books.

She recognized Clare Valley resident, Aliena James, who she said financed Horne’s tertiary education at the Community College.

It was while Horne

Tributes also came from community activist and member of the Rose Hall Drummers, Selywn Patterson, who said he felt proud about Horne’s accomplishment.

Another community activist, Hayden Ferdinand, commended the young man for his achievement and dedication towards the community, North Leeward and SVG as a whole.

ULP candidate for North Leeward, Carlos James, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event, also paid tribute to Horne, before presenting him with an award.

In his response, Horne expressed thanks to everyone who came out to show support; Aliena James for sending him to the Community College, and to Carlos James for his support.

He said the trials and tribulations that he endured were an experience to be used to make a difference in the lives of others. He encouraged the youths to remain humble and show respect, while pledging to continue to give back to his community.

“I will continue to represent Rose Hall and to do whatever I can to make the community proud,” said Horne, to roaring applause.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 23.

Lawrence Shoy on the go during his whirlwind 55.

Casmond Walters (105*) goes through the offside.

Kesrick Williams, who returned figures of 5/22 in the first innings, was bothered by no ball in the second.

Below Par Team Rivals still too good Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT CENTURIES BY HYRON SHALLOW and the informed Casmond Walters, augmented by a five-wicket haul by Kesrick Williams, propelled defending champions, Team Rivals, to an innings and 100-run defeat of newly promoted Triumph United, at the main Arnos Vale Playing Field last weekend.

SCORES: Triumph United 102 &152, Team Rivals 352/2.

comprehensively bowled

by Walters playing back.

Opener Leanoro Gilkes (25) survived for more than an hour and a But, despite beginning quarter to stabilise the innings, which resulted their quest for a fourth straight Premier Division in the lower order adding some crucial runs to see title in such emphatic the total over the fashion, the champions hundred mark. looked a disjointed and Williams, who came lethargic unit, starting back to clean the tail and the match with only eight cause injury, finished players. with 5/22. Deighton Team Rivals won the Butler finished with 3/23 toss and inserted their with his left-arm spin. opponents, and did not One player was struck on have long to wait for the helmet and suffered success, as Williams a cut to the head from removed Leroy Roberts the impact, and took no (0) and Ahmed Baptiste further part in the game (0), caught at the wicket, after his dismissal. with the total on one. It Team Rivals then set was quickly 6/3 when about the bowling with Rohan Ash (5) was gay abandon, Shallow

With a massive lead of 250 runs, Team Rivals duly won with time to spare by dismissing their opponents for 150 in 40.3 overs. But they were rudely exposed by some embarrassing fielding lapses and a hiding to their spinners, from Lawrence Shoy (55). A burly clean striker of the ball, Shoy careened to his half century off just 22 balls, with seven sixes and two fours, captain Orlanzo Jackson (four sixes) and Butler (three sixes) feeling the brunt of the heavy blade. He was caught at the edge of the long on boundary off Walters, and the innings folded soon after, just short of the tea interval.

Zenroy Lee (29) also offered some fight.

Butler, 4/36, was the leading bowler for Team Rivals, who would be concerned with the second innings bowling of Williams, who repeatedly overstepped the front crease in his effort to generate the extra pace against the “New Boys”.

In his 8.4 over spell, he sent down eight no-balls as well as having one delivery going for five wides. He also suffered the ignominy of being struck for three consecutive fours by Lee. Williams admitted to losing focus, but promised an improved performance as the season goes on.

David Cameron Joel Garner could not withstood opposition effect a last minute turn from within and without around in his favour. the regional cricket to oust the Jamaican. fraternity.

In fact, Gonsalves, who will be seeking a fourth Players Association; and term as this country’s putting in place a fresh prime minister, could be memorandum of heard on call-in understanding with the programmes and other players that should lend sports shows across the financial security to not Caribbean voicing his just the internationals, displeasure at the but also to players from possibility of a second the regional teams. term for Cameron.

Cameron, seen as Reports say the local confident and to some cricket association arrogant, appeared president Kishore unmoved by the adverse Shallow, the man in line comments and public criticism by Dr. Gonsalves, to cast one of the votes on behalf of the Windwards, who spearheaded a move

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, PM of SVG, did not hide his desire to see Cameron removed.

(104) and Marvin Small (68) racing to 171 before the latter lifted a catch to short midwicket, off the bowling of Ash. Small struck seven fours and one six off the 69 balls he faced. Twenty runs later, Ash (2/83) picked up his second wicket when he had Shallow caught. He struck 15 fours and faced 99 balls. Team Rivals ended the day 228/2, a lead of 126, with Walters 30 and Skerritt 11 -.

Day Two saw Walters (105*) getting to his century in quick time as he smashed 11 fours and four sixes in the 82 balls, with Skerritt (56*) playing a supporting role, as the pair added 161* for the third wicket.

Cameron beats Garner, Gonsalves et al JAMAICA’S DAVE CAMERON has left many, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, possibly grimacing in anguish and frustration after easily turning back what some were hoping would be a serious challenge by former West Indies fast bowling great, Joel “Big Bird” Garner, to win a second term as WICB president.

Garner sadly lost his dad twenty-four hours before his defeat to Cameron.

Cameron won the vote by a convincing 8-4 margin, He will head the organisation till 2017. His vice-president, Dominica’s Emmanuel Nathan was also returned to office with a similar 8-4 count over Trinidad & Tobago

businessman Baldath Mahabir.

Cameron went into the elections in his home country of Jamaica against the background of heavy criticism of his handling of West Indies’ abandoned tour of India last year.

The premature ending of the tour during the ODI series which had preceded the three tests matches, was attributed to a breakdown in negotiations between the WICB, in particular Cameron, and the players led by Dwayne Bravo.

The BCCI subsequently slapped a $42.7 million claim on the WICB, to cover damages from the loss of revenue.

Leading up to the elections, Cameron had secured the support of four WICB members - Guyana,

Windward Islands, Leeward Islands and his home country, Jamaica.

Garner’s camp hoped for possible late defections on voting day, but it did not happen. Garner received support from TnT and his native Barbados.

Even with Garner’s tempting promises as outlined in a manifesto in which he said he wanted to help West Indies cricket strengthen its base, and climb up the ladder once again, and support for Garner from people in positions of authority, it was clear that Cameron was near untouchable.

Cameron’s push for reelection was founded on his achievements among them: installing a professional franchise structure at the domestic level; improving relations with the West Indies

was removed from that position by majority decision, when the other three member associations of Dominica, Grenada and St. Lucia took the decision to nominate Lochkart Sebastien and Dwaine Gill to be their delegates.

Shallow and his executive have cried foul and have promised to make an official release on the matter. One week after the elections, there is still no comment from the SVG Cricket Association.

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24. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Double squash title for three GIOVANNI MILLER –ALEXANDER, Kai Bentick and Thandi Myers, each copped two individual category titles, when the National Junior Championships concluded last Saturday afternoon, at the National Squash Center at Paul’s Avenue.

Miller- Alexander paired the Girls Under-13 and Under-15, ahead of Loushanna Peters and Lauryn Doyle respectively.

Bentick was successful in the Boys Under-15 and Under -17, leaving Rashid Constance to settle for the runner-up spots in both categories.

Myers laid claim to the Girls Under17 and Under-19, beating Jada Ross in the Under-17 final and Demi Ollivierre in the other.

The other individual winners were: Tianna Gill Jlan Mc Master Jason Doyle Tianna Gill, who won the beginners’ From left to right:Thandi Myers, Kai Bentick, Giovanni category; Jlan Mac Master over his Miller- Alexander. younger brother- Malachi in the Boys Doyle and Mikal Quashie overcame competition.

The young Under -13; and Jason Doyle in the Rashid Constance and Omari Wilson the Grenadines team to participate in Squash players will now focus on Boys Under-19 , with Omari Wilson, to take the Doubles, as the Squash OECS Junior Championships, set for securing places in the St Vincent and the runner-up.

Association introduced the doubles here, April 10th to 12th.

Police officers now Tennis coaches TWELVE POLICE OFFICERS have been charged with the responsibility of teaching the basics in Tennis to their communities. In which they serve.

The twelve, drawn from the various Police Youth Clubs strewn across St Vincent and the Grenadines, received their certification last Tuesday at a closing ceremony, which took place at the Grassroot Tennis Club on Murray’s Road.

Launched last May and intended for six weeks, several debilitating factors occasioned a ‘stop — start’ programme, which eventually spanned eight months.

Intended to be a crime-fighting tool as well as part of the public relations strategy of the local constabulary, head of the Grassroot Tennis Club and initiator of programme Grant Connell, told last Tuesday’s closing ceremony, “We want to replace the knives and guns with rackets and balls. … We have to understand the power of sports ... Sports can help us to de-rock.”

In his address, Commissioner of Police, Michael Charles, vouched his unwavering support and enthusiasm for the programme and

stated, “What is interesting in this programme after all is said and done, it is the beginning of Tennis in St Vincent and the Grenadines ... Tennis can take you places.”

Connell thanked the Mustique Tennis Club, especially Richard Schaffer, for the provision of equipment for the programme.

Under the arrangement, four courts have been identified where the training of the young players will take place.

Storage of the equipment will be at four police stations within the four communities, where the courts are located.

Charles pointed out that, whilst the initial target groups are the Police Youth Clubs, other interested youths and even adults can be part of the programme.

Last Tuesday’s closing ceremony was also addressed by President of the National Olympic Committee Trevor Bailey and President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association James Bascombe.

GTC’s head coach, Trevor Sam, who was the main facilitator of the training programme, identified Corporals Loraine John and Mark Billy as the most

promising player and most outstanding player respectively.

John received sixteen cans of balls, while Billy got a brand new Head racket, compliments the Mustique Tennis Club.

The police officers trained in Tenni, flanked by Grant Connell (left), COPMichael Charles (2nd from left), ASP Jonathan Nicholls (2nd from right) and Coach- Trevor Sam (right).

Eight benefit from bike distribution EIGHT promising, local cyclists are the recipients of bicycles, donated by the Pan American Cycling Federation.

The cyclists — Kadmiel Peters, Casnell Duncan, Shurwayne James, Quasim Thomas, Samuel Lyttle, Bradley Charles, Lisa Gaymes and Ariel Durant - received their bikes last Monday during a a handing over ceremony at the Conference Room of Xpert Computer Center, Grenville Street.

Trevor Bailey, President of the SVG Cycling Union and Vice- The eight recipients flanked by members of the SVG Cycling Union as well as Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture President of the Pan Senator Luke Browne and Vice President of the National Olympic Committee American Cycling - Wayne Williams.

Federation, in handing over the bikes, outlined and abroad. the conditions and contractual arrangements which Bailey thanked the government of St Vincent and govern their use and upkeep. the Grenadines for the waiver of the duties on the “The bike costs a lot of money, take care of it and cycles, which he said was a major help. enjoy cycling ...We are going to be very, very strict In accepting his bike, Quasim Thomas said it was ...You have to bring in the bikes every three always his dream to have a cycle in his possession. months ... If we notice that you are not using the “I love cycling... It is in me, and now that I have bikes for races and training , we are going to take this bike, it is an opportunity to show what I have back the bikes,” Bailey told the cyclists and their in me,” Thomas expressed with a broad smile. parents.

Also sharing in the joy was Kadmiel Peters.

Ten bikes were received; local Cycling Union will “It is a great feeling... I am glad for the keep the other two in its possession, to be made on opportunity to have a bike”, he said. loan to cyclists who may have difficulties with theirs.

The eight recipients would have a chance to test Apart from the ten bikes, ten national outfits their new bikes, when the SVG Cycling Union were part of the package from the Pan American stages a road race this Saturday — National Heroes Cycling Federation. These will be used by persons Day. selected to represent SVG at championships home The bikes have a value of EC$4,000.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 25.

Sports

Vincentian players under Âfriendly fireÊ

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

QUESTIONS CONTINUE to be raised over the haste with which players from St. Vincent and the Grenadines are discarded from the Windwards senior team, while their counterparts from the other islands, in particular Dominica and St. Lucia, are given protracted runs amid continuous failures.

Over the recent past, persons here have expressed this concern following the omission of a number of players here from the team, under the tenure of coach Ian Allen. While in the past, information suggests that team manager Lockhart Sebastien was behind the perceived hard times meted out to Vincentian players, investigations have shown that the Dominican no longer holds such powers as team manager. In fact, when questioned two years ago, Sebastien was quick to point out that it was the coach and not him as manager, who makes decision with regard to the omission of players and the inclusion after the squad was selected.

Sebastien also, at the time, admitted that he himself had heard comments about the coach’s attitude towards players from SVG, but he refused to elaborate on the matter.

A check with Windwards Board officials with regard to the situation with selections, revealed that, while the selectors name a squad, the authority invariably lies with the coach to say who plays and who leaves.

The facts show that over the last few years, more Vincentian players have been dropped from

the team than from any other of Dominica, Grenada and St. Lucia.

The records show that Donwell Hector, Miles Bascombe, Lindon James, Kenroy Peters, Alston Bobb, Romel Currency and Sunil Ambris have all been axed from the team, while doing better or equal to Tyrone Theophile, Keddy Lesporis, Liam Sebastien, Gairy Mathurin and Mervin Mathew, at the time of their exclusion.

Of some interest is that, despite enjoying an excellent Windward Islands season in 2013, both Bascombe and Hector were not selected, based on what reports say was negative information provided to the chairman of selectors, by an individual close to the Windwards team.

In 2012, Sebastien totalled 19 runs in his first seven innings, but was retained for the entire season, while in 2013 Lesporis played the entire season despite hitting a solitary half century and ending with an average of 18.

Bobb, despite enjoying better returns in the Windwards tournament, was forced to sit out for three seasons while the authorities persisted with St. Lucia’s Maturin.

And reports say that while being the team’s leading spinner with just under 30 wickets in 2015, he still cannot command a place in the team.

Currency, one of the team’s most experienced players, was dropped, even though he had scored a half century and looked the most assured of the batsmen. His brother, Sunil Ambris, was threatened with sbeing dropped two matches previously and

Alston Bobb, one of the Vincentians who have suffered the ins and outs of Windwards selection policy. was finally axed.

The duo of Currency and Bascombe, recalled for the last match against Trinidad, covered themselves in glory. Forced to bat behind St. Lucian allrounders Craig Emmanuel and Dalton Polius, Currency had scores of 59 &66*, while Bascombe, who was flown to Trinidad at the last minute, batted at number three and had scores of 65 &42.

Captain Liam Sebastien and Lesporis were both out ill. But even so, Bobb, with Sebastien out, lost his place to Polius who bowled just seven overs in the match.

The team was captained by Theophile, with the experienced Peters, who was named Man of the Match, and Currency, both with leadership experience and knowledge, overlooked.

The Windwards take on Barbados in their last match this weekend, and all eyes will be on which of the players from SVG of Currency, Bascombe, Peters, Delorn Johnson or Bobb will be omitted.

26. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015. 27.

Classifieds

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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EC$1.50

LPG RETAILERS COMPLAIN

by DAYLE DA SILVA

SOME RETAILERS of LPG gas are complaining that they are being charged higher prices than the set wholesale price, and the slim margin allowed for retail is forcing them out of business.

At least two retailers who called into a radio programme on Monday, addressed the issue and called on the government to do something about it.

One retailer said that he has been in the LPG retail business since 1987, but he was forced out of the business

because the wholesale price he paid, did not allow for him to make a decent mark-up on the commodity.

The retailer said that he was being charged close to EC$28 for the standard 20 pound cylinder. And according to this retailer, he was making just over $1 on a cylinder of gas.

A decrease from $42.00 to $29.00 for the retail price of a 20-pound cylinder of LPG was announced a few weeks ago by government.

“There is no possible way for the

Minivan overturns in Layou

by KENVILLE HORNE ONE PERSON is said to be hospitalized after a minivan, travelling to North Leeward, overturned in the Central Leeward town of Layou, last Wednesday night.

The minivan carrying the name ‘Khandi’ and registration number HV108, is said to have hit a wall and overturned.

Scores of residents rushed to the scene to provide assistance to the passengers and driver, or simply to get a glimpse of the unfolding drama.

The minivan lay on its right side for quite some time before residents assisted in getting it back on its wheels, one of which showed extensive damage.

According to one passenger, the The mini-van ended up on its right vehicle was not speeding at the time side after hitting a wall. of the accident.

dollar to cover cost,” the retailer said.

He recalled that before a price adjustment in 2011, there was a meeting involving government, retailers and the importers. He lamented that Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves there was no such meeting emphasised that the maximum retail price for this time around. a 20lb cylinder of LPG is fixed, for the time Another retailer said that being, at $29.00. he was informed by the Ministry of Trade that the “The way this wholesale price for LPG gas is has been done EC$21.65, which, allows for a margin historically up to of $7.35 after retailing at $29.00. the present, However, he continued, retailers were being charged as high as $27.98. there is a margin for “We are willing to sell for $29.00, retail, the but with the price we are paying for difference the gas, we cannot do that,” he said. between the Neither retailer disclosed from maximum whom they were purchasing.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves wholesale price addressed the issue on Tuesday during and the maximum retail a press briefing, saying that there price, that LPG is imported by were two importers of LPG gas includes the Rubis and PetroCaribe and Rubis, with Rubis PetroCaribe. SOL supplying SOL for further distribution. margin for the does not import. retail.

According to the Prime Minister, “At the prices vary as per 4 geographical moment, the retail price is $29.00; the areas.

“The difference (in price among the maximum wholesale price is $21.65, so the difference to be distributed is areas) really is the transportation which will take it from Chateaubelair $7.35,” he emphasised.

Under the old dispensation, in or North of the Dry River or down in the Grenadines,” Gonsalves explained. which the maximum retail price was The price set is the maximum retail $41.00, it allowed for a return of $9.00 for retailers. price, and anyone can sell below the “We considered the price of $21.65 suggested retail price, he further as a fair price as the maximum explained. wholesale price,”Gonsalves stressed.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.