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JANUARY 23, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.04

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An indication of the turbulence near to the shoreline, where it was expected that the divers would concentrate their search.

Petty Officer Lennox Williams, who took charge of the recovery effort, admitted that, given the turbulent waters close to the shoreline, it was the correct thing for his men and the local divers to retreat to safety.

by DAYLE DA SILVA CONTRARY TO THE OPINIONS expressed by members of the general public on radio talk shows and/or social media, the adverse weather conditions and wave action forced the suspension of the recovery efforts by the Coast Guard, following the fatal accident at

“On that particular day, as a diver, once you go to conduct a mission, you have to consider the weather and the conditions — safety first is the Coast Guard motto,” Williams continued.

According to Williams, when he arrived on the scene that morning, there was already a Coast Guard vessel which had earlier been deployed, with three officers and three locals on board.

“I had a chat with the Petty Officer on the scene, and the men who were there (and) I invited them on board my vessel,” he explained.

He proceeded to question them about their own experience in the water.

After briefing the men, Williams said that he and the men dove into the water.

“And we would have already realised that the height of the waves, it was very challenging, the current was very strong [and] the visibility was very poor, at least outside Taking charge the deep, visibility was about 10 feet,” Williams said.

The area (Rock Gutter) is As they got closer to the patrolled by the Coast Guard rocks, Williams explained on a regular basis, Williams that, they realised that it was informed, and he assured that too risky, and the possibility of they “know the area.” But the life threatening injuries was conditions at Rock Gutter were now eminent. of a totally different nature on “So where the waves were that morning, he said. breaking, that was the Rock Gutter on January 12.

This is the word coming from Petty Officer Lennox Williams, master diver with the St Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard, when he addressed a joint press briefing of the Police Force and the Coast Guard, on Wednesday.

Williams’ explanation came amidst heavy criticisms by members of the public, who were of the view that the Coast Guard responded too late, and were not well equipped to handle the situation; and that untrained villagers were the heroes of the day for braving the elements to help recover victims.

Williams, with 18 years of service with the SVG Coast Guard, training at the United States Naval Diving and Salvage Training Centre, is a first class deep sea specialist in operating and supervising any type of diving operations.

furthest we could have gone.

The waves and the current were getting stronger while we were in the water. I pulled the guys together while we were in the water, and the local guys were the first to say that the water was getting terrible and we need to get out,” he said.

He made the decision to retreat to safety.

Williams explained further, that given the turbulence, no member of the Coast Guard or local diver, at any time, was able to get within close proximity of the shore line.

Searches were conducted in other areas and items retrieved, including a number of book bags and some other bags containing personal items.

Once they were back on board, Williams said that they began surface searches, in anticipation that the conditions would get better and allow them to resume the recovery efforts.

Williams emphasised that the Coast Guard did not leave the scene until some time after dark on the day of the accident —and did so only after they received instructions so to do.

Quick response Commander Brenton Caine

Commander Brenton Caine was firm in saying that the first Coast Guard vessel was deployed within minutes of receiving the first call. came out in defence of his unit.

He disclosed that the first team was deployed to the scene within minutes of them receiving the call.

That call was received from Lieutenant Deon Henry, who was at the time on a training course in Barbados. This was around 7:45 am, Commander Caine said.

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Youth

Windsor School recommends recycling Editor’ Note: We are pleased to share, in unabridged and unedited form, the concerns of this group of students of The Windsor Primary School.

Windsor Primary School P. O. Box 1524 Old Montrose Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 7th January, 2015 The Editor The Vincentian Newspaper Dear Sir, We the students of Grade 6, Windsor Primary School are writing to inform you about the importance of reusing and recycling plastic bags and wrappers. We believe that a difference can be made if the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines start practicing the 3Rs (reusing, reducing and recycling), especially for plastic bags and wrappers. By doing this, we can prevent global warming and save our precious marine animals such as our jelly fish and turtles. The plastic bags clog up drains and gutters which can evolve into natural disasters such as floods.

(L-R Back): Rohven Collis-Ashton, Paige Cadougan; (L-R Front): Makayla Forde, Harsha Rajani, Ronique John.

HOW IT ALL CHANGED

(A futuristic story) It was present day, the twenty-fifth of February two thousand and thirty five. My mother told me that twenty one years ago, it was nothing like today.

In many ways mostly in trash problems. Twenty one years ago the streets were filled with trash.

An average person threw away about two grams of Do you know how long plastic bags and it takes for plastic bags wrappers each day on and wrappers to the streets and not much biodegrade? It takes in trash bins. approximately 400 years!

I was in shock as she To prevent all of this we told me, “if you compare need to start using the to modern day, not a 3Rs and GOING single piece of trash is GREEN!!!!!! thrown away on the ground. If anyone finds a Yours respectfully, piece of wrapper on the Windsor Primary School ground, the person will Group 2 go right ahead and check ROHVEN COLLISwhose finger prints are ASHTON on the wrapper and once PAIGE CADOUGAN they find out, that MAKAYLA FORDE person who threw it on RONIQUE JOHN the ground will be HARSHA RAJANI arrested”.

In our world today there are electronic candies. So now when I eat candy I will be sure not to be shocked by it and I make sure to throw the wrapper in the bin.

Next thing you know, robots will take over the world next year. The “KISS” candy went out of business because they said NO! to the whole electronic process. It’s like trash never existed, I don’t even remember how it looks!

There are many animals being saved because of the reduction of plastic bags and wrappers- especially the turtles. Many years ago more than one million animals died each year because of people’s foolishness of throwing their bags and wrappers on the ground instead of recycling or reusing them.

So all we want to tell you is that we must start to make the change now for the future to be better.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 3.

News 3

Businessman shot

Male Surgical Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

NICHOLAS SUTHERLAND, a 51-year-old He was nursing a bullet wound as a businessman of Diamond, is saddened by result of the incident. the ongoing robbery of small Police reports are that Sutherland businessmen here. received a gun-shot wound to the Sutherland said he was shot at stomach, when he was attacked at his through the glass pane of his door last business by an unknown assailant, weekend by unknown person/persons, around 11 p.m. last Saturday. who he believed came to rob him.

Sutherland, whose dwelling “I don’t have no big set of money for quarters form part of the same people to rob, but it is so sad that St. building in which he operates a bar at Vincent could reach to this stage that Diamond, told THE VINCENTIAN soon after you start to run a little that he had closed his business around business, they want to rob you for 10:30 p.m. and was inside viewing a what you have,” Sutherland told THE movie, when he got up for water. He VINCENTIAN on Monday from the noticed that one of his outside lights

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Man found floating in Clare Valley waters INVESTIGATIONS CONTINUE here into the death of Royford May, said to be a 74-year-old resident of Arnos Vale, but originally from Greiggs.

The man’s body was found floating in the waters off Clare Valley, the once quiet fishing village in the South Leeward area, on Thursday 15th January, between 10am and 11am, police say.

The Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Coast Guard responded immediately, and the body of the deceased was retrieved from the waters.

The details of a post mortem report were not available up to press time, Wednesday.

This is the second tragic experience for the residents of Clare Valley and surrounding communities, within the last six week or so.

On December 6, 2014, well-known political activist, Edgar Cruickshank, was killed when a car careened into a crowd gather in Clare Valley, for a public meeting of the opposition new democratic.

was not on.

He said he sensed that something was wrong, as he had left on all the outside lights.

When he looked through the glass pane of a door, he spotted the shadows of two persons outside. He then heard an explosion, and realised that he was shot. He recalled that the assailants then fired another shot and ran.

“They came to rob me. As I looked out they shoot. They shoot me through the glass at the top (area) of the door,” Sutherland explained.

The businessman said the assailants apparently disabled one of the exterior light units of his building, by removing the bulb.

“I only saw two shadows”, he reiterated.

The man recalled that after he was shot, he woke his girlfriend, with whom he lives, and told her, “Somebody shoot through the door and shot me,” She alerted a neighbour, who assisted in getting Sutherland to the hospital.

During their absence, according to Sutherland, the building was burglarized and a quantity of items removed.

He was adamant that his girlfriend had secured the lock on the outside of the (main) door, even in a haste to get him to the hospital. On her return, she discovered the items missing.

Sutherland recalled that sometime last year, his business was also burglarized and items, including a

Unfair criticism?

Continued from Frontpage. the defence of the organisation.

A subsequent call came in He was the Deputy from police control about Commander in the absence five minutes later, and by of Lt Henry, and the one 7:56, the first vessel was charged with the task of deployed to the scene of coordinating the entire the accident. operation.

The journey would have Ragguette said that, taken about 45 minutes to based on information that the area and, according to was relayed back to him at Commander Caine,, the base, Calliaqua, Williams vessel with Williams, the and the local divers had second vessel, was also entered the water, but deployed around 9:15 am. were only able to dive He further stated that close to where the surf was he went on the advice of breaking. the expert diver, who The strong currents in made it known to base the area made the work of that the conditions made it the divers even more difficult for any type of challenging. Based on the diving operations to information received at continue.

“Safety was paramount, base, Ragguette concluded that it would have been you can’t save someone impossible for anyone to when you are dead,” he get close to the shore. asserted.

“To put things in perspective, from the time Recovery not life-saving we got on scene and the time we got the Lieutenant Ralphie information, there were no Ragguette also spoke in

moving bodies in the water, there was no saving of life, they were more of recovery,” Lt Raguette said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Reynold Hadaway, for his part, was firm in his view that, based on what he was told, the police and Coast Guard moved to respond from the get go.

“What we have to take into consideration is that the persons responsible directly, that is the Coast Guard, are trained personnel, and they would put certain consideration in assessing what steps or measures can be taken.

“We are deeply moved by the loss of lives, and would continue to keep those affected in our prayers; but the efforts of the Coast Guard cannot go unnoticed,” he said.

Nicholas Sutherland, shot in his stomach by unknown assailant. quantity of drinks valued at about $3,000, were stolen. There was also a previous robbery attempt at his bar.

Before deciding to start his bar operation at Diamond some three years ago, Sutherland was employed at the Sunsail yacht service at Cannash, “I opened the business to help myself,” he explained.

At press time Wednesday, police were continuing their investigations into the matter.

One of the two Coast Guard boats that were deployed to the scene of the crash, does its best to negotiate the raging water.

Lieutenant Ralphie Ragguette was responsible for coordinating the operation from the Coast Guard base at Calliaqua. He admitted that the operation quickly developed into one of recovery rather than lifesaving.

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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Law

Murder charges withdrawn against quartet

Woman jailed for causing senior citizen’s death

by HAYDN HUGGINS

TWENTY-YEAR-OLD Joleen Williams was this week sentenced to five years in prison for the manslaughter of 89-year-old Agnes Williams, also known as Vernie Barnum, and three years and Curtis George eight months for the attempted murder of Agnes’ grandson, Jason Barnum, who was Joleen’s lover.

The sentences handed down by Justice KathyAnn Latchoo at the Criminal Assizes on Monday, will run concurrently. Joleen will, therefore, serve Andy Acosta

by HAYDN HUGGINS Matthias discharged the men. five years behind bars.

The charge was maintained Joleen was originally indicted with murder, but THE PROSECUTION, on against Jeffrey Cuffy, also of pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter Wednesday, withdrew murder Campden Park, and is slated on November 28, 2014 at the Assizes. She also charges against four of five men, for February 9. admitted to the attempted murder charge.

The five were charged with at the Serious Offences Court.

The prosecution accepted the pleas, and the The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) the murder of 45-year-old Court adjourned sentencing pending a social Campden Park fisherman, Inquiry Report. against the five was slated to Nolly Jack, whose body was The facts, presented by Assistant Director of commence on Wednesday, but discovered in the public road at Public Prosecutions Colin John, revealed that on Assistant Director of Public May 4, 2013, Joleen, who was 18 at the time, struck Lowmans Bay on March 22, Prosecutions Colin John Agnes in the head with a pipe wrench and 2014, with bullet wounds to the informed the Court that the attempted to stab Jason, during an incident at a chest and lower parts. prosecution was withdrawing house in Arnos Vale, where the trio lived.

Alister Roberts Kemron Spence the charges against Curtis Agnes died a few days later at George, Alister Roberts, Andy the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Acosta and Kemron Spence, all An autopsy revealed she died from a of Campden Park. head injury caused by blunt As a result, Chief trauma.

EFFORTS ARE being made for an early the victims of last Magistrate Rechanne BrowneDuring the presentation of the release of Desserand Stay, father of one of week’s (Monday 12th facts, the Assistant DPP read a January) fatal crash, caution statement Joleen had given from prison in to the police during an electronic interview, in which she confessed to Martinique. the crimes.

Stay and Jemma In the statement, Joleen said Edwards are the there was an argument between parents of Jamall Agnes and herself about who used Edwards, a student the bathroom and did not clean it. of the North Union The argument escalated, resulting Secondary School, in an altercation between the two, one of five students during which Agnes spat on her.

On being spat on, she took up the who died in the pipe wrench, which was close at crash.

Efforts are afoot hand, and struck the elderly woman According to to have Jamall on the head. She attempted to stab Prime Minister Dr Edwards’ Jason from behind when he came Ralph Gonsalves, (pictured) father, home around 2 p.m. that day and Stay was sentenced Desserand May, tried to assist the injured woman released from to 15 months in who was lying in the hallway. prison in the French prison in A struggle ensured between Martinique. territory last Jason and her. He managed to take away the knife, and reported the October, for entering matter to a police officer who lived that country illegally. close to their home.

The Prime Minister disclosed on Joleen also said in the statement Tuesday, during the launch of a Gospel that after she struck the 89-year-old CD at Cabinet Room, “I just want to say woman, she attempted to set on fire that I am using my best efforts to see if I some old clothes, which were in the can get an early release for Desserand.” house, with the intention of He said that he knew the President of committing suicide and burning the house; but the fire did not catch. the Regional Council of Martinique, A Social Inquiry report on Joleen, Serge Letchimy, and a letter has been prepared by a case worker attached sent for his consideration.

“So I am keeping my fingers crossed. I to the Family Affairs Division, concluded that Joleen was know it’s a difficult hurdle we are remorseful for her actions, and she seeking to cross in that regard, but we was a good prospect for have to leave no stone unturned,” rehabilitation.

Gonsalves said.

Joleen was represented by Jamall and his older brother, Jamalie, attorney Patina Knights who pleaded for leniency. died after the mini-bus they were In arriving at the penalty, Justice travelling in, plunged into the sea in an Latchoo took into account the area between Owia and Fancy known as sentencing principles outlined in Rock Gutter. other cases, time spent on remand, They, along with the other three and the mitigating and aggravating victims, will be buried this Sunday. (DD) factors.

PM trying for early release of victim’s father

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 5.

News

Nigel Stephenson, behind steering wheel of his vehicle, admitted to driving an unlicensed vehicle for almost four years.

Stephenson to know fate next week

by DAYLE DA SILVA THE FATE OF SOUTH LEEWARD Parliamentary Representative Nigel Stephenson rests in the hands of the Central Committee of the New Democratic Party (NDP).

Leader of the Opposition and the party’s President, Arnhim Eustace, confirmed with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, that a fact-finding committee met on Tuesday, to review the matter.

He said that the committee will submit a report to the Central Committee, which is expected to decide on what action, if any, is to be taken.

It was anticipated that a decision would be made

by Thursday of next week, this according to Eustace.

Stephenson admitted to driving an unlicensed vehicle for more than four years, after Senator Julian Francis raised the issue during a Sitting of the House of Assembly.

He was subsequently ordered, by Eustace, to pay all outstanding fees and notified that he would have to appear before the party’s Disciplinary Committee.

This hearing was set for January 20.

And while it has been revealed that Stephenson will be made to accept some form of disciplinary action for his misdeeds, it is still yet to be determined if the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) will be taking similar action against Senator Luke Browne, who was also found wanting, having driven for a period of five years without a valid driver’s licence.

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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

JULIAN MC INTOSH:

A man on a Crusade musicians, the McIntoshes.

JULIAN MC INTOSH is on a His early, active one-man crusade, he says, playing days date back to educate the masses on here to the 1960s and the legacy of his 1970s, with bands such as grandfather, George ‘Symphonets’ and the Augustus Mc Intosh.

‘Latinaires’, and playing Julian is an alongside the likes of Rawl accomplished musician Soso, his cousin Frankie (saxophonist), a member of Mc Intosh and Kerwin the renowned family of

by DAYLE DA SILVA

Morris.

He travelled throughout the region plying his saxophone for many a top band ,and settling for a time in Antigua, before migrating to Canada over 40 years ago.

He continues to be active on the music circuit in Canada and the USA, out front with his own band.

However, he has found the time to champion the cause of having his grandfather, George A. Mc Intosh, declared a national hero of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Why the crusade

The Frankie McIntosh Orchestra with Julian McIntosh (left front), still a very young man, on saxophone.

“I am a bit disturbed that all the facts are there, and from

my research there are no ‘ifs’, ‘buts’ or doubts that he is the father of this nation,” Julian told THE VINCENTIAN. History outlines the work of his grandfather, and history is the foundation of any progressive nation, but there was little or no real dialogue on the history of the country, he proffered.

There was even documentation from Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, he said, Gonsalves having made the point that George Mc Intosh should be honoured for the work he did in the country.

“So I was a bit disturbed with all the debate and all the rhetoric, the unnecessary rhetoric and demagoguery, when the facts are there,” Julian said.

“So I thought that it was time I took on the crusade at least. If those in charge do not want to install George Mc Intosh as a national hero, then I would make the masses aware of the national hero.”

Cato, so why are they not giving him his dues after he gave them his blood, sweat and tears?”, Julian questioned.

Beating back the insult Julian is clear about who is his target, as far as his crusade is concerned.

He was not here to try to convince the government, or any committee for that matter, but wanted to educate the people.

“The facts are there.

The books have been written — they are there, the authentic facts.”

This prompted him to say that, from a personal perspective, it was an insult that the only recognition his grandfather would have received, was to have a Coast Guard vessel and the shopping centre located in Paul’s Avenue named in his honour.

“That’s a profound insult to the father of this nation,” he said.

The road ahead

Julian McIntosh took another step in advancing the cause of having his grandfather, George McIntosh, designated a national hero, when he spoken with THE VINCENTIAN last week Friday, January 16, 2015.

Eventually, one of the future generations in his family will take up where he left off, if he is not successful in his bid to get the official recognition that his grandfather deserves. ”As long as the masses know, and as long as I get out there for the younger ones to know, not for it to be legislated, but as long as I can go into every rum shop, every church, every corner, and people would remember the name George Mc Intosh, that’s all I ask for,” Julian said, with a clear indication of determination written across his face.

And while he said that he does not want to diminish the work and George Mc Intosh accomplishments of formed the Representative Joshua and Cato, he is Government Association adamant that his back in 1919, a time of grandfather laid the colonial oppression. foundation for them.

He fell then, under the He says that he will put guidance of Captain forward a formal motion Arthur Cipriani, a for George Mc Intosh’s Trinidadian labour leader recognition, but for the and politician, and started time being will be holding the movement here educational rallies both against crown rule. here and in the Diaspora, By profession, he was a to get his point across. druggist (pharmacist), and And although he says George Augustus Mc his early political office that he may be the only Intosh led a fight came when he was elected member of the family against the might of the to the Kingstown Town carrying on with the English Crown, as well Board, of which he would battle, he is not bothered as the local plantocracy eventually become by that, and will carry on. during his time.

Chairman.

From that beginning, he went on to form the first Labour Party here, Julian said.

Following the 1935 riots, Mc Intosh started the Working Men’s Association, and through it, intensified the fight for adult suffrage, which was officially attained in 1951.

“And people have to realise, he had the British government on his back,” Julian noted, adding, “He was absolved of treason from the King of England — this was documented by Rupert John.

“McIntosh laid the foundation for persons like George Mc Intosh (seated centre) with others members of the 1958 – 1960 Kingstown Town E.T Joshua and Milton

About George Mc Intosh

Board.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 7.

Diaspora

Candlelight vigil for victims of minibus tragedy

here, we come together in grief, acknowledging our human loss,” the Rev. Dr. Glyger Beache told congregants at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, which hosted the event, in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn.

“In pain, we may find comfort; and, in death, resurrection,” added the church’s pastor, who hails from Brighton.

“Remember, we’re the light,” continued Rev. Beache, as ushers distributed candles at the Rev. Dr. Glyger Beache two-hour-long event. addressing “Where our people are congregation. suffering, His (Christ) hands shall reach out.

Light sustains us. God be Stories and photos by with us.”

NELSON A. KING Officials said at least naking@verizon.net; five people were killed on neloking@msn.com the morning of Jan. 12 US CORRESPONDENT when a minibus carrying, among others, school DESPITE THE VERY FRIGID and rainy weather, hundreds children from Fancy, of nationals in the New York plunged into the sea from an embankment, in an metropolitan area last Saturday night, participated area known as Rock in a candle light vigil for the Gutter, between the communities of Fancy and victims of the minibus tragedy in North Windward. Owia.

Two students were still “Friends, we gather

storm that left at least seven people dead, and a trail of damage and Others offering prayers destruction.

“But, we must say Dr. Roxie Irish, youth ‘God is in control’, and minister at the evangelical we ought to be Miracle Temple Ministries prepared,” he said.

International in the Among dignitaries Brownsville section of who attended the vigil Brooklyn, offered prayers were: United Nations for all mothers in St. Ambassador I. Rhonda Vincent and the King; New York Counsel Grenadines, especially General Selmon those who lost children in Walters; Deputy New Section of congregation during candle light vigil. the accident.

York Counsel General Questelles native the Sehon Marshall; former Rev. Beache reported Campden Park; Campden Rev. Cornelius Olive, New Democratic Party that nationals had Park natives Andean pastor of Trinity Apostolic (NDP) minister and contributed US$3,844.00 Charles and Garfield Church in the Bedfordcounsellor at the Mission Bowens; Kathleen Hills, of during the vigil and Stuyvesant section of to the United Nations US$1,502. 00 the next Park Hill; and Cherise Brooklyn, read Samuel Bernard Wyllie; and day, during the St. King, of Diamonds.

12:20.

Laverne McDowaldVincent and the Lennox “Skully” Hunte, Thompson, president of Persons moved Grenadines Ex-Teachers a Seventh-day Adventist the Brooklyn-based Association’s gala Church minister in Council of St. Vincent and With the candles lit, the luncheon at Grand Brooklyn, alluded to the Grenadines Prospect Hall in Brooklyn, Matthew 18 in stating Organizations, U.S.A. Inc. gospel artistes led the congregation, who danced to assist the families of that “God is in absolute (COSAGO), the umbrella and shouted “Allelujah” the tragedy. control.”

Vincentian group in the with the singing of songs/ He said he and a Hunte, an erstwhile United States. member of the vigil popular mas producer in A number of Vincentian hymns.

A congregant in the committee will travel St. Vincent and the gospel artistes also sang home soon to personally Grenadines, described the praises before and during back pew also wailed as deliver the monies to the tragedy as devastating, the lighting of the candles, the names of some of the families. and reflected also on the including Stephen Mayers victims scrolled on the screen behind the altar.

Christmas 2013 freak of Lodge Village and unaccounted for, up to press time, Wednesday.

Ex-teachers honour popular dentist AS PART OF THE ANNUAL celebration commemorating the birthday of slain civil rights leader the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Brooklyn, New York-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ex-Teachers’ Association, last Sunday, honoured popular dentist Renrick Benn.

Dr. King’s birthday is recognized as a public holiday in the United States on the third Monday in January.

Dr. Benn, born in Mesopotamia but raised in Mt. Pleasant in the Marriaqua Valley, was the lone honouree at the gala, sell-out event at Grand Prospect Hall in Brooklyn.

“It’s a good feeling,” Dr. Benn told THE VINCENTIAN briefly, immediately after the honour was conferred. “I’m glad they chose me, but I also recognize that there are a lot of deserving people.”

Jackson Farrell, the group’s president and a veteran public school teacher in Brooklyn, who hails from La Croix, also in the Marriaqua Valley, said the accolade bestowed on Dr. Benn was “well deserved.

“His support of the SVG Teachers’ Association and other organizations has been constant over the years,” said Farrell, who taught at the St. Martin’s Secondary School, among other local schools, before migrating to New York.

“He richly deserves the

recognition, as he is held in high esteem by SVG Ex-Teachers,” added Farrell.

Dr. Benn, who practices dentistry in Brooklyn and resides in Valley Stream, Long Island, a New York City suburb, attended the Marriaqua Government (Primary) School and spent his first year in secondary school at Emmanuel High in Mesopotamia. He then transferred to the Grammar School where he reached Form 4 before migrating to New York in 1965.

Benn was raised in his early years by his grandparents, and following the premature death of his grandmother, moved to New York to live with his mother.

His last year of high school was completed at the Eastern District High School in Brooklyn.

In 1974, Benn graduated from Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences.

From 1974-82, he conducted research — first at Columbia Presbyterian Institute of Health, in muscular dystrophy; then, at Brooklyn Veteran’s Hospital, in endocrinology.

During that time, he completed a master’s programme in Medical Microbiology at Long Island University.

Benn then attended the State

Edward Conliff (right), coordinator of gala ceremony, presents US$1,502 collected at the event to the Rev. Dr. Glyger Beach, to assist the families of the victims of the vehicular tragedy in North Windward, SVG. They are flanked by (from left) Amb. I. Rhonda King, Counsel General Selmon Walters and Jackson Farrell.

University of New York at Buffalo School of Dentistry from 1982-86.

He completed a year-long residency in General Dentistry in 1987, while he continued to intensify his interest in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, the medically-inclined specialty of dentistry.

From 1987-91, Benn trained as a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery at Harlem Hospital.

At the end of his residency training, Benn pursued private practice, first as an associate to Dr. Bruce Maltz, an established Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in Brooklyn.

He later worked as a solo practitioner and also as an Oral

SVG Ex-Teachers Association member Dr. Ann Sutherland presents plaque to Dr. Renrick Benn.

and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Bedford Stuyvesant Family Medical Center, with Hanson Place Dental Associates, in Brooklyn.

Other recognition During his address, Farrell also noted past honourees, including James Cordice, Godfrey Pitt, O’Brien Simmons and Carver Bennett.

He also joined with other speakers — including United Nations Ambassador I. Rhonda King, New York Counsel General Selmon Walters and Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines President Laverne McDowald-Thompson — in

remembering those who lost their lives in the vehicular tragedy, on Jan. 12, in North Windward.

As the ex-teachers celebrate their 32nd anniversary and remember Dr. King, Farrell urged his compatriots to “use what is happening now as a teaching moment.

“Let us realize we are very far from the mountain top,” he said. “There’s a lot of work still to be done.

“Let us strive to be good to one another; bring out the best in our fellowmen, then we will be doing our Father’s work,” he added.

The St.Vincent and the Grenadines Ex-Teachers Association also recognized honorary member Elizabeth Hewitt and supporter Joyce Miller, presenting them each with a bouquet of flowers.

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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 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

The CWC-FLOW merger THE VINCENTIAN HAS, since the announcement on November 6, 2014 of the proposed US$3.025 billion acquisition by Cable and Wireless Communications Plc (CWC) of the holdings of Columbus Communications International, provided coverage of this unfolding saga, with the intention of keeping our readers abreast with what is developing both within and outside the region.

CWC is better known to us in SVG as LIME, and Columbus as FLOW. Unlike CWC, Columbus/FLOW is a recent entry into our market space, making its entry in March 2013 when it purchased the concerns of Karib Cable.

FLOW, however, had been operating in Barbados, Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago for some time before.

THE VINCENTIAN has not sought to editorialise on the issue before this point, and is (now) moved so to do, because it is disappointed that there has not been more, if anything, heard on the matter from government persons who matter, management of the two locally trading companies affected, and/or the trade union(s) involved on behalf of workers of either one or both local companies.

Save and except for a politically predicable statement from an ECTEL Council of Ministers Meeting in St. Lucia, December 4, (See THE VINCENTIAN of December 12, 2014), there has been no ‘official response’ from the OECS territories concerned, and the wider CARICOM response has not been any more encouraging.

Admittedly, we await the actions of the various Regulatory Commissions in at least three CARICOM countries. (Pity the OECS countries which have no such legislative mechanisms to inform the process and protect its citizens.)

The proposed acquisition smells pungently of a return to when Cable and Wireless enjoyed a monopoly of telecommunications services here. We take the lead from Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who recognized, “What we are now having is a monopoly in the country – the internet services.”

That taken, should we not be more openly concerned about this acquisition?

Are we to sink in our armchairs, accept what Cable and Wireless/Columbus is promising, and slip into a slumber that will erase from our memories the struggle we endured to liberalise the telecommunications market? Very few of those who reign over us now, were involved intimately in the overwhelmingly challenging embryotic stages of that struggle. Do they lack the sensitivity that will inform a battle to safeguard those gains that we made then and have made since?

No amount of investment promises can compensate for an attack on our sovereignty. But that is not the only consideration as per this acquisition.

The daily acquisitions and mergers that spread across the globe, have thrown up one common reality: mergers bring downsizing in operations, to include the downsizing of work forces.

Are we insulated from this probability? We cannot afford to think that we are.

The question of employment and potential job losses cannot be ignored, as we consider the impact of this acquisition on our small economy.

If the truth be told, Caribbean economies struggle to absorb its full (eligible) work force. Worse, those whom we have been able to absorb are still not guaranteed, especially at the low end of the chain, decent wages.

What guarantee(s) do we have that the acquisition, which effectively takes a competitor out of the market, will not result in job losses? When FLOW entered this market, it promised no job retrenchment. THE VINCENTIAN has this promise on record. Did FLOW not move to ‘rationalize’ its work force, resulting in retrenchment? Has Cable and Wireless not demonstrated a trend of downsizing its work force across its Caribbean markets?

Let’s not fool ourselves! Cable and Wireless and Columbus are in the business of making money — lots of it — to satisfy their shareholders and private investors respectively.

Regardless of how much talk there is of promised increased investment, of improved corporate responsibility, there must be a guarantee, with mechanisms of redress factored in as bold print, that the loss of jobs in the sector must not be a consideration for operations of this new entity, should approval be granted.

And even when all is said, the promises of this new entity (CWC + FLOW) may well bring an improvement in services. (God knows that we need this).

But, while this might be so, we cannot lose sight of the one reality of our little SVG: People want jobs, secured jobs. That is their right.

That is why we must ask, as we await the outcome of consideration of this proposed acquisition: Did we not elect a government and approve the setting up of various agencies to protect us, to look after our welfare?

This could well be a test of our government, and all CARICON governments’ commitment to those who ‘put them there’.

Mishaps accidents disasters WE OF THESE SMALL Caribbean territories, every now and then, are sent into a tailspin of grief and wonderment, usually by the forces of nature.

Over the years, but in my life time, there has been the story of the missing Grenadian boat “The Island Queen” coming to attend a wedding in St Vincent in the mid-1940s but disappeared as if in thin air, with all souls aboard.

Then in the late 40s there was the Castries fire that nearly burnt down the entire city, with several deaths.

SVG’s turn came in 1979 through volcanic eruption that did great damage, but luckily recorded nor caused much loss of life.

All the islands are pounded intermittently by the ravages of hurricanes.

In January this year, we suffered two excruciating disasters by way of motorvehicle accidents. A family of four perished when a car hit a public electricity pole turned over, and was mysteriously set ablaze in a conflagration that consumed all four occupants: two infant boys, their grandmother and a male friend, the driver.

This accident took place in nearby St Lucia, and affected us here in St Vincent in a very real and personal way. The father of the children is Alex Agard, a Vincentian who flies LIAT planes.

The mother is a St Lucian studying in the USA and, the charred body of the woman was that of the wife’s mother, in whose care the children had been left.

It so happens that Errol Agard deceased had been the adopted father of Alex Agard, the father of the kids.

Errol was born three months before me in a neighbouring home. As boys, we were devout Anglicans, sharing the same pew and confirmed in the faith on the same date. His life ended barely a year ago, which was the last time I saw Alex and his beautiful family huddled together at the graveside.

But I got to know Alex through my daughter, Oneka, when she had been his girlfriend. She eventually went to Barbados where she married someone else, and Alex settled in St Lucia where he took a bride. They remain great friends, in constant communication since the disaster which badly affected Oneka and other mutual school friends.

In SVG, we experienced our own calamity, which was national in scope and stung the religious sensitivity of all.

The accident involved a school-bus owned by one religious organisation, taking to school nearly two dozen children from three or four communities, and the scenario of which played out agonisingly in slow motion, and has not

ended as yet.

The comparison may be invidious, but in St Lucia it was swift and short, taking place in less than five minutes. In SVG, it involved more people, several agencies and politicians who played to the public gallery in full knowledge that a general election was around the next bend.

One must concede that Ralph has been playing his cards with dexterity, so much so that one can use “master piece” as an accurate description of the total scene.

It must be borne in mind that Owia and Fancy are together the stronghold of the NDP in the North Windward constituency. Nature served them a terrible blow that would unnerve everyone and probably disorient most.

Then the government stepped in and hogged the whole show, sending in the Coast Guard, medicines and food aplenty, and ambulances and transport to deal with the dead and injured, radio and T.V coverage sympathetic to the ULP completed the team for the display.

More substantially, there were badly needed counselling to the bereaved and promises made of a new air-conditioned van, of tertiary schools for those involved, and many other gifts, some of which sound like enticements for coming elections.

Which is a pity; for this was a national crisis which could have been used to bring the country together and inculcate a spirit of brotherly love between the Opposition and Government.

Instead, it has been used as a wedge driving the political parties further apart.

The parties were able to find an area of intense difference, narrow but deep.

Douggie De Freitas declared over radio, that the Government could have employed helicopter service from neighbouring St Lucia, which would have got to the scene in about forty-five minutes, and probably saved a couple persons and, or retrieved a like number of bodies.

A contrary argument held that time was of the essence, there being only about ten minutes available to rescue, and weather conditions were too severe for helicopter’s use; but did not address the question of recovery of bodies of which two were lost in the terrible debacle.

We are not done yet. There follow the budget, the naming of other National Heroes, finally the next election. In each of those events the calamity of FancyOwia, will feature prominently.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 9.

Letters

The need for safety measures AS A CONCERNED citizen, I am very hurt and saddened by the tragedy that occurred on Monday, January 12, 2015. It is not easy when you imagine how those children would have got up early that morning, to prepare themselves to get to school on time. Maybe, some didn’t even have the time to take breakfast; they just had to hurry off to catch their transport.

I am sure that their parents are trying their best to see (that) their children get a good education to brighten their future.

Travelling through those dangerous hillsides from Fancy to Sandy Bay is not easy. Yet, we don’t even hear those in authority saying that they will make sure that this kind of tragedy doesn’t happen again. We don’t even hear the

Tragic accident at Owia\Fancy IT IS WITH great sadness that I learned of the truly tragic accident at Owia\Fancy, which claimed the lives of so many innocent persons, all of whom were secondary school students.

My heartfelt condolences go out to the parents, relatives and friends of the deceased and, indeed, to the entire population of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines at this time of grief and sorrow.

It is clear to any well-wisher, that resolute action must be taken by the Authorities, if a recurrence of this tragedy is to be avoided– a tragedy which, I must say with regret, was always in the making, given inter alia : (1) the topography of St. Vincent with its winding and narrow roads and steep precipices; (2) the relatively low standard of road surfaces; (3) the generally observed culture of illdiscipline among drivers; (4) the apparent failure to control, with any real resolve, speed limits, and to penalize infractions of road-traffic regulations; (5) in light of items(1) - (4) , the overloading of vehicles of all types, especially passenger vehicles.

One may also enquire whether there is any machinery in place for regularly determining the road worthiness of motor vehicles.

What the above signals is the need for the Authorities to take resolute action immediately, a first step being, the appointment of a Committee of properly qualified persons, to review with urgency, the whole spectrum of road traffic in the country, and to come up with implementable recommendations.

Errol O.C. Cupid, Trincity, Tacarigua, Trinidad.

Evaluating our political mentality WHEN THE HISTORY of SVG politics is written, our greatest politicians and Prime Minister will feature in every chapter and episode of the book and/or documentary.

But he would be shadowed all the way by Elwardo (EG) Lynch, the profoundest evaluator of our political mentality.

EG Lynch must be credited for bringing out the worst in our greatest politician.

The Prime Minister is responsible for law, order and disorder in SVG, so he must answer for the shameful, disgraceful, disgusting behaviour shown by citizens at the funeral of EG Lynch.

Never seen anything like this during a religious gathering in St. Vincent.

The Prime Minister has a lot of questions to answer.

Did he apologize to Lynch’s family, who so graciously invited him to the funeral?

‘Chrispo’

police saying that they would try to put the necessary safety measures in place, to ensure the comfort of passengers when travelling in minibuses from those areas. The authorities need to look into this situation. They must assess drivers, conductors, and keep a close eye on the number of passengers who travel at any one time on these minibuses. I would

rather see inexperienced drivers driving trucks rather than passenger buses.

I am not saying that a passenger bus turning over is an everyday thing; but when the driver of that bus could walk up and down without facing penalty, that is sad for the people concerned.

It seems to me that the Police Force doesn’t have the powers to do the right thing or

say the right thing, at the right time. If one of my sons had died in that tragedy, I wouldn’t want to hear talking and talking. I would want to see the right things done.

I am sending my deepest sympathy to all those people who suffered pain and grief as a result of the loss of their loved ones.

A concerned citizen

Do something before it’s too late TO THE GOVERNMENT of S.V.G and the protective service: What is going on with these divisions? Are they waiting for an accident to happen, to prevent one from happening? How can they allow a mad man to walk around among civilized people, with a cutlass, sharpened back and belly as Vincentians say?

Yes, we all are humans, but there are some bad humans who should not be allowed to be around good humans.

Yes, I am talking about the mad man that is always at the roundabout and at the bus stop, especially when there are a lot of people gathered there.

God forbid that the devil should kick him. What do you think will happen? I do hope that the Accident and Emergency Department is ready to deal with the mass blood bath that will take place.

What are we going to say, ‘If we did know’?

So please, do something before something happens. Don’t wait for an accident to happen, to prevent another accident, and then say we should have done something.

Randolph Williams

Big up to Rudy Boucher SOMETIME ago, you carried a piece on the recognition given to Rudy Boucher by the VincyCares group here in NY. Not only do I congratulate Rudy Boucher on being identified as a recipient of this award, but I commend the VincyCares group for having the courage, especially when you look at how awards are dished out by our government back home, to hand out an award to a most deserving Vincentian.

I grew up watching men like Rudy ‘roll ball’ at Victoria Park, and I cherish the memories of that. Haven’t seen football home for some time, but I hardly believe those fellows now could match the skill of people like Rudy Boucher and others who played during his time.

And if his accomplishments as a player aren’t enough to go by, I recall that he was coach of our 1979 national football team, perhaps the best team we have ever put together.

Now, it’s only left to the authorities back home to give Rudy Boucher his due. A Sports Ambassador award would suffice at this time, and even one of those British Awards that we continue to use. But if and when true national awards replace those British awards, it is my sincere hope that Rudy Boucher would be among the first recipients.

Big up to you, Rudy. I wish you continued good health and thanks for all the fond memories.

Garnet - N.Y

VINLEC and its Surcharge DID I HEAR correctly?

Did VINLEC say that we will continue to see ‘relief’ in the Fuel Surcharge Rate for the month of January 2015?

Somebody, please tell me I am wrong. Tell me that the big brains at VINLEC did not say such a thing. Tell me that I should take the wax out of my ears.

How could the people at VINLEC talk of ‘relief’ when the Fuel Surcharge Rate for January is

almost five cents per unit higher than what we paid in December?

According to their own figures, the Surcharge Rate was 40.65 cents in December, and we can expect to pay 45.49 cents in January. Isn’t that an increase? How can an increase payment mean ‘relief’? Has the meaning of the word ‘relief’ been changed?

Perhaps this is modern maths or a new

common sense that has not reached me yet. Is this ‘relief’, deduced by the use of this new maths and common sense, meant to be that we all should say thanks that it (the Surcharge) is not higher? Maybe that is what they meant. And if that is the case, I apologise to the ‘big brains’ at VINLEC for my stupidity.

‘Stupid Me’

* Has the x-ray machine at the E. T. Joshua airport been repaired yet? Did you know that that machine broke down on December 28, 2014? * Are we going to do without this service at the E. T. Joshua airport until the Argyle airport opens? Isn’t that too long a period to wait? * Given the length of time it has not been functioning, is the Navigational Light on Rock Fort a thing of the past?

Has there been complaints from pilots? Are we breaking any regulations by not having that light in operation? * Are we heading for a change of person at the top of the Customs and Excise Department?

If that is the case, would the replacement come from outside SVG? * Who is responsible for repairing the railing along the Casson Hill Road?

Like they gone to sleep or what?

V

10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Excerpts from the address by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on the Rock Gutter tragedy Being in solidarity EVERYWHERE in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the faces of men, women, and students are strained and anxious, devastated at our loss, yet thankful to Almighty God for his mercies. We look to Him as the bountiful source of Grace, in whom Hope, Faith, and Love abundantly, and inexhaustibly, reside. We are before our God imploring Him to accord us His healing hand, to strengthen us, to bind us together with cords that cannot be broken, and to redeem us with His saving grace.

We do not and cannot understand everything that our Lord divines, but we know, by reason and faith, that He loves us and He will see us through this excruciatingly painful night into light. Of this we are absolutely sure; and it is this which provides us the solace and the strength required for our healing and our recovery.

Solemnly we recall first the names of the students who are dead and those who are missing. Their names must be forever etched in our collective memory as a fitting memorial which no grave nor time, can ever extinguish.

The national response This extraordinary tragedy has brought out the best in us. From early, the exemplary communities of Fancy and neighbouring Owia bonded as one to provide comfort to those in grief and suffering; selflessly and at risk to their own lives in the billowing seas, divers volunteered as part of the search and rescue team spearheaded by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard. Promptly and effectively, and with love, the agencies of the State responded to the disaster: The Police and Coast Guard; NEMO and its volunteers; the personnel from the Ministries of Health, Education, and Social Development.

Overwhelmingly, they have been performing their duties beyond call within tested structures and systems.

Medical doctors, nurses, other medical personnel behind the scenes, ambulance drivers, counsellors, teachers, members of the Police and Coast Guard, and many others, have been rallying commendably, and with purpose. Civil society, including community activists, pastors, and journalists have risen to the occasion.

Government and Opposition have been at one.

At the appropriate time, our State agencies will conduct a critical review of their performances to assess their strengths and weaknesses, possibilities and limitations, all with the aim of improving upon the delivery of vital public services at times of emergencies and disasters.

Members of the Government and Opposition have, in one way or another, at one level or another, been engaged in providing support and solidarity to the grieving parents, the community of Fancy, and the survivors. In this engagement, I single out for special mention the outstanding efforts of the Honourable Montgomery Daniel, the parliamentary representative for North Windward, who has been exemplary in his commitment and dedication to his people. Personally, I have, in practical ways, been in daily communion with the grieving families,

the survivors, and the community of Fancy. I have been linking, hands and hearts with them, and supporting the magnificent efforts of Montgomery Daniel.

Supporting arrangements At the gathering in Fancy last night, on behalf of the Government, I made several solemn commitments to the families of all the students who were in the minibus, and to the surviving students in respect of their care, comfort, and education, right up to the university level. I will announce these measures in Parliament, shortly, at the appropriate time.

Regarding the survivors who are still hospitalised, our government will spare no expense or effort in respect of their medical treatment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines or abroad, if necessary. Our entire nation is so happy that they are alive and is quite anxious to see them restored to full health, as soon as practicable.

Arrangements, too, are being made for a replacement school-bus to transport the students from Fancy.

Our government itself is ordering, for permanent operations, a new school bus which will be managed through the Ministry of Transport. We expect to have the new school-bus in the shortest time possible.

Meanwhile, the Counselling Centre which has been established at the Seventh Day Adventist Church at Fancy will continue its magnificent work. So, too, the one set-up at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. The Ministries of Health, Education, and Social Development are collaborating on this matter. The healing process will be a difficult and challenging one, requiring the utmost skill, care, and attention.

The Police have commenced, and are continuing, the investigation into the accident.

Conclusion On behalf of the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and on my own behalf, I reiterate my declaration of profound condolences to the families of our deceased and missing students.

Please know that we love you dearly; your personal loss will not be in vain.

Our solidarity and love go out, too, for the survivors and their families.

As a nation, we will be with you, always. I want you to know that I will be with you; you are in my heart and my mind. I love you. We will all heal, together.

As we renew our faith for the difficult, yet promising, journey ahead, the uplifting words from Psalm 33 are apt in their reassurances: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, The people he chose for his inheritance.

“–-May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, Even as we put our hope in you.”

The NDP transformed SVG The New Democratic Party’s (NDP) performance in government from 1984 to 2001 was exemplary. It built and upgraded facilities in every constituency in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; it enhanced the quality of life in every village, and laid the foundation on which investors could build.

Setting the foundation for the country’s infrastructure did not come by accident. Prudent fiscal management from day one, when the NDP took office in 1984, was the key.

The party’s strategic economic plan bore fruit. It attracted the attention of the international donor community.

They were satisfied that the NDP government was on the right path.

Government ministers of the NDP were not beggars, but negotiators, with a vision to show how they would service their commitment and not to become raiders of the public purse.

The international donor community is not interested in the shopping list of poor countries. They first and foremost want to know that a poor country, like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has the leadership, discipline and strategy to execute a programme of sustainable growth.

When that strategy is carefully articulated and backed by a record of performance, the funds will flow, and flow they did during the period 1984 2001. Interestingly, the mastermind behind the NDP’s strategic economic plan was no other than the Honourable Arnhim Eustace, who was seconded to the Government, from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Some of the projects that were done by the NDP government were: the construction of the Ottley Hall Mariner, Kingstown Fish Market, “Little Tokyo”, Sion Hill Intersection, J.F Mitchell Airport, the Financial Complex, Kingstown Vegetable Market, the Cruise Ship Berth, the Leeward Highway, Canouan Jetty, and the ‘gouti tracks’; the implementation of traffic lights; the electrification of villages north of the Rabacca Dry River; the modernization and renaming of the Kingstown General Hospital to Milton Cato Memorial Hospital; the introduction of a land reform programme; and the construction of new secondary schools at Georgetown and Campden Park, And the list goes go on and on.

Even as the NDP administration borrowed money to execute those projects, it had a fiscal surplus. Yet, it was criticized by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) for that. Also, the debt service ratio was one of the lowest in the Caribbean. Today, under the ULP regime, the debt to GDP ratio is over 70%, well above the normal international guideline of 60%.

It must be noted also that when the NDP left office (2001), the national debt was $568 million. Of this amount, $184 million was disbursed under the former Labour Party administration. It, therefore, means that the NDP debt between 1984 and 2001 was $384 million. In contrast, the present national debt is $1.3 billion, excluding the amount owed to Petrocaribe.

Based on the performance of the NDP from 1984-2001, its policies and programmes as outlined to the electorate of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the upcoming general elections, the astute leadership of the Honourable Arnhim Eustace, along with the competent team of men and women who will face the pools, Vincentians must elect the NDP to

govern the affairs of this country. It’s time for a change; it’s time for Vincentians once again to enjoy an improved standard of living. We have been suffering for too long. It’s time for the NDP.

Fancy tragic accident On Sunday 25th January, 2015, the bodies of the five students, who lost their lives in the Rock Gutter accident at Fancy, will be laid to rest. This amidst the fact that two students are still missing. It will be an especially sad occasion for the families who lost loved ones. Once again, the NDP expresses its condolences to the families and friends of the departed, and also to the principal and staff of the North Union and Georgetown Secondary schools. It is anticipated that a large number of persons will journey to Fancy on Sunday, to attend the mass funeral. The families and friends need the support at this time of bereavement.

It is sad that it has to take a terrible incident, such as the one at Rock Gutter, Fancy, to unite the country. That’s why we in the NDP believe that we can and will unite the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We cannot depend on horrible accidents or natural disasters to bring Vincentians together — a togetherness that lasts only for a short time. Undoubtedly, the introduction of our policy of meritocracy will be implemented in an effort to bring unity among Vincentians. We should not be living like this; we are one people.

We appreciate the government’s commitment to purchase a School Bus to be used in Fancy. (Pity that) it took an accident for that to be achieved. It confirms what most Vincentians have been saying about the ULP government for years, i.e. that it is a reactive government.

Is the government now going to replace the old school buses that are being used in North Leeward and South Central Windward? Those school buses suffer regular mechanical problems, and taking into account the steep hills that these vehicles have to negotiate, some consideration should be given, at this time, to replace those buses.

The whole question of a bus service for students comes into focus here. It begs the question: Is it time for school buses to be provided in areas where students are experiencing difficulty getting to school on time? On a daily basis, students are on the roads at 9:00am and 9:30am because there is no available or designated transportation to get them to school for 8:30pm and 9:00pm.

The whole issue of transportation for our school children should have been part and parcel of the ‘Education Revolution’; it is not, so that is another area where the ULP regime has failed the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The NDP will look favourably at introducing more school buses, and will continue to offer concessions for bus operators who wish to transport school children, concessions that were first introduced by the NDP. Simply put, our students need a better transportation service.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 11.

Views

Amid snipers and snakes Let’s talk issues

“Once a python weighs more than half the weight of his keeper, the potential of dangerous constriction becomes very real; snakes of this size should not be handled alone.

Once a python outweighs his keeper, fatal constriction is at the discretion when they are transiting childhood and entering adulthood. They need to of the python.” - Anonymous (quoted in a Los Angeles newspaper) be very selective of whom they associate with; making sure that they keep company with individuals who AFTER SELECTING THE TITLE for this week’s article, I proceeded to check my encourage them to pursue noble archives for quotations that I could use dreams, and avoid those who would to introduce the topic. It was logical for encourage them to engage in practices me to search for the words “sniper” and that will take them down a pathway “snake”. And that I did. There were no of immorality or dishonesty. Many of references in my electronic database for the skilful “snakes” seek to lure the the former. And there were only eleven unsuspecting by offering material quotations available for the latter. Each things or “other favours”. And while we know that there are some of them had the potential to take my individuals that are generous and thoughts in a different direction. For genuine with their sharing (expecting example, the following quotation from nothing in return but wanting to see Sharon Lovejoy excited me: “Of the the best for the recipient), we must 2,400 species of snakes, some 270 species have venom that is harmful, but not be naive and assume that every “gift” is presented with pure not necessarily fatal, to humans. . . . intention.

However, experiments have Some workplaces are overpopulated demonstrated that people from all with “snipers”. These are individuals corners of the planet have adverse who, for a host of selfish reasons, seek physiological responses to sudden sightings of snakes.” The thoughts that to discredit colleagues (usually by talking behind their backs). The emerged immediately following my unhappy, negative individuals are reading (of) that quotation invited me often dissatisfied with themselves and along the path of pleading with our jealous of the achievements of their citizens not to kill the harmless brown, grass snakes that periodically cross our colleagues. They may even assume that they make themselves bigger and paths throughout St.Vincent and the better as they seek to discredit those Grenadines. And while the Forestry Division would have welcomed my plea, that they “bad talk”. They may engage in the crab-in-a-barrel it is important that I place that approach to life — pulling down those assignment on a back burner for the moment, and concentrate on an equally who appear to be on the rise. How sad! How very sad! important task at hand; sharing some We cannot change the snipers and thoughts about snipers and snakes. snakes in our lives. We can seek to Is there a relationship between influence them, but we cannot change snipers and snakes? Do they have them. We can only change ourselves anything in common (beside the fact and our attitudes. It, therefore that they both start with the same behoves us to examine our own lives, letter)? I looked at the 1993 acion and ascertain whether we are film “Sniper” a few years ago. I was engaged in such snake and/or sniper so fascinated by the adventure and activities. Sometimes we may be suspense that was generated throughout the two-hour episode, that operating like snakes and snipers and not even be aware of doing so. On I ventured to purchase a copy of the other occasions, however, we are DVD online. The story revolves conscious of our involvement in these around a US Marine (Thomas Beckett), who is on assignment in the negative behaviours (giving way to Panamanian jungle. His mission was “the dark side”). These behaviours to use his high-powered sniper rifle to can be very destructive and selfdestructive. However, we can build assassinate leaders in the rebel better homes, neighbourhoods, groups there. The movie revealed workplaces and churches when we how relatively easy it is for skilled abandon such debilitating activities; snipers to shoot and kill individuals when we look for and encourage the from a distance. good in others; when we seek to assist This article provides a timely others in overcoming their faults and reminder that we can be hurt by shortcomings, rather than appear to persons who operate like snipers (from a distance), and those who need pull them down and maul their character. You and I can be to come into close proximity (like instruments of positive change. We snakes) to inject their venom or can curtail the snake’s effort and strangle hold. All of us will exist among snipers and snakes from time disarm the sniper. One individual’s positive change can be a catalyst for to time. It is, therefore, imperative healthy change throughout a that we develop a spirit of community. One community could discernment. This will allow us to have a positive change on a nation. determine what protective efforts we need to engage in as we seek to avoid As we proceed amid snipers and snakes, may we not be numbered the damage that they can do to our character and reputation. Our young among them. persons, in particular, must be on Send comments, criticisms & alert for the snakes that may appear suggestions to to be attracted to them during the julesferdinand@gmail.com most valuable period of their growth —

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, like the rest of the English speaking Caribbean, celebrates the fact that these islands are vibrant, competitive parliamentary democracies. We hold elections every five years, so that the citizenry can choose which of the major parties it wants to guide the ship of state for the next five years.

For 17 successive years, the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) controlled the government. It took a very businesslike, profit and loss, approach to governance. Everything was seen in dollars and sense terms, and government was to refrain from most economic enterprises.

These were better left to the private sector. And so, the Mitchell/Eustace government closed the sugar and coconut oil factories, the Diamond Dairy milk and juice plant. It sold the strong rum factory to private enterprise. These actions created a serious shock to the employment situation in the country.

The NDP believed that, once it created the infrastructure for development, the living standard of the people will improve. Before its rule ended in 2001, there was a marked increased in the volume of motorable roads, signaling a determined shift to tourism; the cruise ship berth was constructed, and the financial complex was completed. By 1993, following an assault on the banana regime by Dole and Chiquita, ably aided and abetted by President Bill Clinton, banana started its slow but painful spiral downward.

Towards the end of its rule, the NDP paid consultants to study poverty levels in SVG. Alarmed and embarrassed by the finding, 37 percent in poverty and 25 percent indigent or dirt poor, the party buried the report. It disbelieved its consultants. By the time the NDP left office in 2001, SVG was the second poorest country in the Caribbean after Haiti.

Contrast what came before to what has happened in the last 168 months.

There has been an almost 180 degree shift. Whereas there was an overwhelming emphasis on the private sector, there is now much more balance.

In fact, it can be said that the shift is decidedly in favour of the poor and vulnerable.

Recognizing the vital importance of qualified work force to development, the government has invested heavily in education. Major strides have been made at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels. All young persons 12 to 18 years get a chance to attend high school.

Hundreds of children from disadvantaged families got a chance to attend college, with government assistance. Others have received scholarships to Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Taiwan and Turkey. Never before in the history of our country, has there been such an emphasis on the educational needs of the nation.

Teachers are better trained, and the civil service has a larger volume of college trained personnel. The Teacher/nurses/ A level college/ technical college were institutionalized under one head.

To give young workers/professionals an early stake in the system, a housing policy developed where hundreds benefitted from low and middle income housing. The recent problem with the house in Clare Valley telescoped the need for closer supervision and management; but there is no homeowner clamouring to give up her home.

The most vulnerable among us got assistance with their vision. They

received assistance that more than doubled in the last 10 years, and they are better cared for, as we see with the construction of the homes for the elderly on both the leeward and windward sides of the country.

The infrastructure has not been neglected. Only limited finances has prevented even more work and advances. The Windward Highway allows a smooth, unimpeded ride from Kingstown to Fancy. The South Leeward Highway has begun in earnest.

The natural beauty and nature sites, ever so attractive to tourists, have received a facelift. And there is the Argyle International Airport which has the potential to radically transform the entire Eastern corridor of St Vincent.

All of this has taken place in the context of a robust discourse on the path of development and a full ventilation of issues. I have been consistently clear on the issue of governance. Neither the governing ULP nor the opposition NDP has all of the answers to the big problems we face.

But this much is true. The ULP government is much more proactive, through going, innovative and pathbreaking. Its leadership is evidently unafraid to chart new course and break new ground in domestic and international affairs.

The opposition, in marked contrast, is overly reactive, knee jerked and unstudied in its approach to statecraft.

In fact, its leadership operates as though it has no intention of getting into office. It disregards the fact that government gets much of its information from able and decent civil servants.

Two examples prove the point.

Eustace and the NDP’s position on the accreditation of the community college demonstrates a lack of basic understanding of basic matters. The fact that a student has an associate degree does not mean that a school to which the degree holder is transferring will give her all of the credits. Credit transfer depends on how well a student performed on the courses taken for the associated degree. It matters not if a student is transferring from an 'accredited' school. Accreditation is a process that comes with time and results. The UWI has said that it will accept and has accepted students from our associated degree programme.

Secondly, the story about the Ecuadorians in uniforms. Are these soldiers/ builders/engineers here to train our tactical units, or are they here to build bridges? They are building bridges destroyed by nature. For opposition spokesmen to claim that Ecuador lined up against us in the WTO fight regarding the Banana quota is purely bogus. The main movers were giant US corporations Dole and Chiquita, aided by the US government of Bill Clinton. They are evidently concerned about what the USA will say, so they dare not call for a review of relations with Obama. But they pick on little Ecuador which is giving us even more assistance than the wealthy and powerful USA. These are the issues of leadership, policies and programmes that will decide the next elections. People will get the opportunity to see which party is more people centred and which party is better suited to guide the ship of state in these difficult times.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

V Green economy needed in SVG 12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The SVG economy has become dangerously weak under the incompetent ULP regime. The present system is failing Vincentians and businesses. There is no money circulating around the country, because we have an oil-dependent economy, and the ULP regime has failed to create a strong export economy.

SVG needs a Green economy. Germany has one of the world’s strongest national economies; they have achieved this on a foundation of a Green economy. This is an especially remarkable achievement in light of the economic troubles in much of Europe and the world at-large.

One of the important pillars of Germany’s success story is their renewable energy industry and the 2001

German Renewable Energy Act, which introduced the concept of a Feed-in-tariff and right to connect formula to the world — a concept entailing: the paying of above-market rates for renewable energy sources over a specified time period, combined with a requirement that all sources of renewable energy production within a given utility’s region must be connected to, and given priority within, the network.

This concept makes sense economically, in that all new sources of non-renewable energy cost more than existing sources that were developed some time ago.

A large amount of money is leaking out of the SVG economy, because the ULP regime has unwisely decided to rely upon oil to produce

Green economy in SVG economy and create would boost the amount thousands of new jobs by: setting up a renewable of money circulating in energy industry, a the country and boost recycling industry, a sales for businesses. In high level of electricity. green technologies and Germany, the booming In the long run, as oil unemployment. Making innovation industry; renewable energy the change to a Green becomes scarcer, it will helping entrepreneurs to industry alone has an become more expensive, economy will create set up Green businesses, annual turnover of thousands of new jobs. In EC$31.3 billion. and the SVG economy and providing incentives will become significantly Germany, in 2011, there to help existing The United Nations were 372,000 people weaker if we do not businesses make their has said that the working in the nation’s change to a Green ‘greening’ of economies is products renewable energy economy. environmentally-friendly, a new engine of growth, sectors. The projections a net generator of decent in order to gain a Choosing a Green are that these numbers economy and renewable jobs and a vital strategy competitive advantage, are expected to be in the for the elimination of energies is a great way and by building a science also for communities and 400,000 to 500,000 range persistent poverty. It is and technology individual Vincentians to by 2020. university. necessary to enhance The ULP regime lacks food security, improve make money, with SVG needs change to vision and foresight, and nutrition and health, community and bring prosperity to the is economically individual ownership of people. create rural jobs and incompetent; renewable energy reduce pressure on the consequently our production.

SVG Green Party environment. economy is stunted and In 2013, 50% of the A Green government www.svggreenparty.org under-performing. A entire Germany will modernise the SVG production of renewables was owned by individuals, communities and cooperatives — with the sources ranging from home rooftop solar Part One Jewish faith use the term Allah to panels to wind power refer to God - simply because Allah is and biogas production on Editor’s Note: We are pleased to join the term in Arabic for God. agricultural land. with our Muslim brothers and sisters A Muslim’s belief of God Almighty In SVG, there is a in sharing some insight into what — Allah, is exactly in accordance to true Islam is about. what previous revealed scriptures The following is an extract from a have stated, which have been piece entitled ‘Belief in One God’, confirmed by the final revelation — written by Mufti Waseem Khan the Holy Quraan. It tells that Allah is (Hafizahullah), Principal, Darul Uloom the All Knower, the All Seer and the Trinidad and Tobago.

All Hearer. He is only One, who has In the name of Allah, Most no partners, no sons, no daughters, no Gracious, Most Merciful. mother and no father. He shares his Islam is the final religion which divinity with none and has no peer, has been given to man, so that he is equal or rival. Regarding this, the guided on the right path and may Holy Quran says: “Say: He is Allah, gain salvation in the life hereafter. the One! Allah, the eternally At its core, is beliefs which a Besought of all! He begetteth not nor Muslim is required to have. Islam was begotten. And there is none teaches that there is only one God. He comparable unto Him. He does not is the ever living and the eternal, and dwell in any of his creation, nor has there is none like Him. He is the he ever taken the form of anyone. He creator of all things and the Sustainer does not incarnate into any being nor of the entire creation. does he take the form of any being.

He is the All Powerful One, who controls all the heavenly bodies of the He is pure, free from all defects and desires, and is free from human sun, moon, stars, planets etc., and qualities which have been attributed decrees the actions of all living to him.” creatures on earth.

He is characterized by the most Islam teaches that the Supreme beautiful qualities, of being the Most Being is only One. He is God Loving, the Most Merciful, the Most Almighty who is called Allah in the Holy Quraan: The word Allah means Compassionate, the Forgiving One, the one and only universal God of all the Most Kind and the Benevolent.

He always existed and will always humanity. It is incorrect to view Allah as a tribal god of Muslims. The exist. Everything shall come to an name Allah is not just a translation of end, but He shall remain forever. He has created man to serve Him, the English word ‘God’, but is also worship Him, to praise and glorify His personal name. Hence, when Him, and to be obedient to Him. He Muslims use this name ‘Allah’, they are invoking the personal name of the has made the earthly abode as a carpet for man and the sky as a roof Supreme being. The term ‘Allah’ and canopy. On the earth, He has cannot be pluralized or made placed everything through which a feminine like the word ‘God’. man can fulfil his needs and Therefore, it is a purer and more necessities. The seas, the rivers, the accurate name for God. mountains, the sun, the moon and Fundamentally, Muslims, when rain-fall have all been created as a they refer to ‘Allah’, are referring to service for man. The animals, the the same deity that the Christians birds, the fishes, the fruits and and Jews refer to when they say vegetables have all been created to ‘God’. It is wrong to suggest that serve man. (To be continued.)

Allah is the God of Muslims alone.

There is just One God for all For more information and/or inquires, humanity. call Abdullah at Tel. No. 455–7312.

Arab people of the Christian and

What Islam teaches

V

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

Religion

Catholics Synod 2015: Looking for new approaches to an old mission College, today and tomorrow.

Some 250 delegates THE ROMAN CATHOLIC are expected to DIOCESE of Kingstown is deliberate, over those looking to change the way two days, on a wideit ministers to, and is ranging agenda that present in, the lives of “reflects the wishes of Vincentians.

Catholics across the Most Reverend Jason Diocese, as expressed Gordon, Bishop of through various forms of Kingstown, made this engagement with the disclosure when he leadership of the church addressed a press over the last three conference held at the years,” according to Pastoral Centre, Bishop Gordon.

Edinboro, last Monday, Bishop Gordon pointed to highlight the Church’s to Synod 2015, as “not a Synod 2015. one-off event, but The Synod, considered actually a process which the first ever such event will unfold over five to be held by the Roman years. Its objective is to Catholic Church here, is bring about being held under the transformation and theme, ‘Building renewal within our local Community through church, to make it more Word, Eucharist and relevant and responsive Service’. to the needs of a Its working sessions changing Vincentian will be held at the Society.” compound of the St. At the end of the Vincent and the process in 2020, the Grenadines Community Bishop hopes that what

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

will be defined is, “a Catholic Church in St. Vincent and the Grenadines which is stronger, more united, more dynamic, more caring and compassionate in the true likeness of Christ; more vocal on the issues of justice and development which face our country; more engaging as we seek to give practical expression to the Kingdom of God among us; and more committed to serving the society in meaningful ways and making a greater difference in people’s lives.”

Recognizing the milieu in which the Church finds itself, Bishop Gordon described it as “An interesting feature of contemporary St. Vincent and the Grenadines,”… represented by “the growing number of persons who say they have no religious

affiliation, reflecting the increasing secularization of society,” and pronounced that, “the Catholic Church is especially interested in reaching out to this demographic.”

That is why the Church has to focus on the impact of technology on today’s society, the Bishop opined, adding that, “Approaches to ministry which worked for our parents and grandparents 30 years ago, will not deliver the same results today.”

He cautioned, “If it is to remain effective, to remain relevant, the Church must be open to new thinking, new ideas, and new approaches to accomplishing the same ages-old mission.”

The Synod began yesterday, Thursday, with a march from the Little Tokyo bus terminal to the St.

Mary’s Cathedral, Kingstown.

The exercise climaxes Sunday with a Mass at the Community College compound.

A lecture at Frenches House last Monday evening, with panellists Adrian Fraser, Mark DaSilva and Veronica Marks, formed part of the build-up to the Synod.

Bishop Gordon was supported at the press conference by Monsignor Michael Stewart, Synod 2015 chairperson Father Andrew Roach, and Process Core Team members Sandra Davis (Events Coordinator), Rosita Snagg and Jeannie Ollivierre.

Roman Catholics are Right: Fr. Andrew Roach, parish priest of the St. Benedict’s parish (Georgetown, etc.), will serve as the Synod Chairperson.

Most Reverend Jason Gordon, Bishop of Kingstown, anticipates the Synod setting a new path for the Catholic Church in its ministry to Vincentians. said to number no more than 10% of the population of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, estimated at 110,000.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 15.

14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Vincentian graduates recognised

by WILLIAM ‘K OJAH’ ANTHONY Stories by ‘KOJAH’ VINCENTIANS receiv ed cer tifiF ORT Y-SIX rreceived FORTY-SIX certificat es from the U niversity of the West West cates University Indies, at a ceremon ceremonyy held at the Methodis Methodistt Churc h Hall, F riday Januar 6.

Church Friday Januaryy 1 16.

Master’s Degrees were bestowed on: Leighton Adams, MSC Management (Marketing); Cecily Haynes, MSc Nurs Nurs-ing Clinical Nurse Specialist; Alverna Westfield, MA - Student Personnel Administration; Andrea Smith, MA in Education (Secondary), Allanson Cruick Cruick-shank, MPhil Urban and Regional Planning; and Warren Knights, MSc Aviation Management.

Bachelor’s Degree recipients included: Ikarmola Laborde, BEd (First Class) Educational Leadership and Manage Manage-ment; Jahneil Ryan, BSc (First Class) Geography, Environmental Science and Resource Management; Junior Jacobs, BA Entertainment Enterprise Manage Manage-ment; Bethlene Ferdinand, BA Linguistics; Muriel Francois, BEd Literacy Studies; and Dieta Tucker Ikarmola Laborde delivered the V aledictory a Valedictory Address at the recognition ceremony. ceremony.

BSc Management Tourism.

Also receiving Bachelor’s degrees were: Janelle Grant, BEd (First Class) Literacy Studies; Twyla Thompson, BEd (First Class) Literacy Studies; Nyasha Browne, BEd in English; and Semone Richardson, Iasha Baptiste, Hadasha Butcher, Mauricio Joshua, Ayana Nep Nep-tune-Samuel, Licia Nero John, Asha Wickham and Okkar Richards, BSc Accounting.

Other Bachelor degree recipients were: Chemora McKnee, BSc Agribusiness Management; Natonya Parris, BA Film Production and Film Studies; Shimeque Smith, BSc Economics; and Marva Williams, BSc Psychology.

BSc Management Studies certifi certifi-cates went to Samantha George, Shenel Allen, Idris Baptiste, Fiona Charles, Bernard Delpesche, Rochelle Franklyn, Alicia Lew Lew-is-Samuel, Donna Michael and Kathy Ann Primus John.

Tanya John received her ASc Social Work Degree, and Diplomas in Health and Family Life went to Vesta Chaunce–Suth Chaunce–Suth-erland, Evelyn Derrick, and Melisisa Laborde.

Camp-Roxanne Camp bell received a Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Management; Ellsworth Charles, Nicole Lawrence and Janice May secured Certificates in Supervisory Management; and Lineth Cupid-Jackson and Kerwin Ince were rewarded with Certificates in Advanced Counselling Skills: Working with Adolescents.

Some of the graduates spoke with THE VINCENTIAN. Here is what we learned:

Laborde finds good Chemistr Chemistryy Ikarmola Laborde, who received a Bache Bache-lor of Education (First Class) in Educational Leadership and Management, teaches Chemis Chemis-try at the Bethel High School. She delivered the Valedictory Address at last Friday’s ceremo ceremo-ny.

She used the occasion to commend the government for the ‘Economically

Disadvantaged Student Loan’ programme, noting that it would have been challenging for her without that support.

Laborde urged others “to take up the opportunity,” and also implored persons to “repay the money so that others will bene bene-fit.”

The mother of two also paid tribute to the UWI staff and to her immediate family circle for helping her through. She paid tribute to her training Graduates who received their certificates at the UWI Recognition of Graduates Ceremony 2015, held on colleagues, and Friday 16th January.

January. Inset: pointed to the power of friend friend-ship and the influence of a “unified Campus, she did not have to leave these praises for God’s guidance and the force.” shores in order to complete her Degree. support received from family members, tudents from the Interacting with sstudents especially her sister Kozel Baptiste.

Richardson has her eyes focussed on She plans to acquire her ACCA different Caribbean territories made her pursuing a Master’s in Management qualifications and become a Certified Caribbe-appreciate “what is it is to be a Caribbe Studies.

Accountant. an citizen.”

Accounting Queen Richard-It is difficult to miss Simone Richard son among the masqueraders during Vincy Mas. She has copped five Queen of the Bands titles, representing the Blondie Bird and Friends Mas Band.

Richardson is an Assistant Sports Officer in the Department of Sports, and recently obtained her International Association of Athletic Federation Level One Youth Athletics Coaching certificertificate.

She received her BSc Accounting Degree at last week Friday’s ceremony, and pointed to a love for accounting. She also commended the Disadvantaged Student Loan Programme.

Her studies began in 2010, and she is pleased that because of the facilities available at the local UWI Open

Semone Richardson is determined to go beyond her bachelor’s bachelor ’s degree in Accounting.

Asha Wickham Wickham admitted to some rough going, as far as finance was concerned.

Wickham overcomes the struggle

Asha Wickham is an administrator with James Archibald Designs. She started her studies in 2009 and received a BSc in Accounting.

For her, it was a “bit of struggle” completing the programme. She financed her programme, with some help from her mother.

Wickham confessed that at times, “the money was scarce,” but she perse perse-vered.

Baptiste gives thanks to God Iasha Baptiste is a Junior Audit Officer in this country’s Civil Service.

Keen on completing her Degree in Accounting, she began her course of study in 2010, and fulfilled her dream with a certificate in Accounting.

A devout Seventh-day Adventist, Baptiste echoed

Iasha Baptiste is looking to become a Certified Accountant.

Symantha George spoke of her husband’s husband’s support during her period of study. study.

Graduates adv advised ised to ‘Hold thirst for learning’ DR MINEVA GLASGOW, Deputy Director at the National Insurance Service in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, exhorted graduates of the Open Campus CereRecognition of Graduates CereMethodmony 2015, held at the Methodist Church Hall last Friday, to maintain their desire for higher education.

“Hold on to your thirst for learning,” Glasgow advised.

She noted that service was the traditional watchword of those who have passed through that institution, and urged the successful students to have a vision and “set clear agoals.”

Dr. Glasgow cautioned the students to provide resources to achieve their objectives, and urged them to be open about their weaknesses.

She likened the students to pencils, and noted that they

must be in someone’s hand.

“There will be pain from time sharpto time as the pencils are sharpencourened,” she admitted, but encouraged that “you will be able to correct mistakes.”

Emphasising that the inside of the pencil was most important, Dr. Glasgow beckoned the graduates to, “Leave your mark on each surface.”

Just like the pencil, the inside is critical, and in the case of the person, the heart is vital.

There will be “glorious, unstoppable possibilities ahead,” she noted, and reminded the students to broaden their horizons.

The feature speaker directed students to “keep abreast with change,” and ordered them to “see where you want to be in the order of things.”

Drr. Mineva Glasgow urged the Dr. the graduates to “leave their mark” as they pursue their vision.

Below: Graduates represented represented achievements in Master’s, Master ’s, Bachelor ’s, Diploma and Bachelor’s, study.

Certificate courses of study.

Symantha has a passion for learning Rela-Symantha George is a Public Rela tions and Marketing Officer at the Central Water and Sewerage Authority.

The former Emmanuel High School and Technical College student took up educa-the challenge of pursuing higher educa Manage-tion, and received her BSc in Manage ment Studies.

She paid homage to Petra Ferdinand, Techni-one of her teachers while at the Techni cal College.

A mother of two sons, ages five and two years, George acknowledged support from her mother, in-laws and especially her husband, whose assistance she described as “profound.”

UWI Open Campus extends ac access cess to learning MRS. DEBORAH DALRYMPLE, Head of the UWI Open Campus, Kingstown, has described the mission of the Open Campus (OC) as one of extending access to learning through distance educa educa-tion, and enhancing service to communities by procuring new programmes, in order to respond to priority national and regional needs.

She provided that insight when she addressed the UWI Recognition of Graduates Cere Cere-mony 2015, held here last Friday, January 16, at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown.

Towards fulfilling its mission, Mrs. Dalrymple said that UWI’s Academic Programming and Delivery Department, “plans to offer additional areas of speciali speciali--

zation in undergraduate programme in Management BacheStudies, as well as new Bachelor’s Degrees in Accounting, Political Science, Psychology and Sociology.”

And in a direct pitch to those persons who may want to study at the certificate and diploma levels, the head assured that the local Open Campus offers contin contin-uing education programmes on Site, “with plans afoot to offer continuing and professional development programmes on line as well.”

She reminded that, “The Open Campus is proffered as an insti insti-tution where one cannot only access tertiary education, but one where you can pursue a dream which may have been shelved, as

other needs took priority.”

DalrymAccording to Mrs. Dalrymcurrentple, the Open Campus currently serves adults who seek education part-time; those who are employed or have families that they need to care for and support. there“Open Campus sites, therefore,” said Mrs. Dalrymple, “are not simply convenient, but it is an avenue through which individuals can improve their academic and professional competence.”

In addition to its academic offerings, the Open Campus here hosts, among other events, the Deborah Dalrymple, Head of the UWI Annual Independence and Open Campus, spoke of plans to Emancipation Lectures, and expand the current slate of study The Annual Literary Fair. areas being offered locally locally..

V Police stalwart on pre-retirement leave 16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

People

by HAYDN HUGGINS

STATION SERGEANT KENNETH ‘SKY’ SKERRITT, the police officer charged with the responsibility of overseeing security at the High Court for the past seven years, proceeded on pre-retirement leave last week. His retirement is expected to begin in May.

Skerritt had just turned 20 when he enlisted in the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, on October 15, 1980. He served under seven Commissioners of Police: Ben Jackson, Felix Constantine, Randolph Toussaint, Osborne Quow, William Harry,

Keith Miller and currently Michael Charles.

He was part of a peacekeeping force in Grenada in 1983, during the U.S invasion of that country.

During a telephone interview on Monday, Skerritt told THE VINCENTIAN, “I have no immediate plans for my

retirement. I am just taking one day at a time, and thanking God for giving me the opportunity to have served my people and country…. . I have no regrets. If I have to do it all over again, I will do it all over again.”

Skerritt cited loyalty, discipline and dedication as the major factors that

attributed to his 34 years of service.

He served in several departments of the Police Force, including the Special Services Unit (SSU) where he started, and Telecommunication; but his area of expertise is Coast Guard operations. He was attached to that service for 19 years, during which time he attended several courses locally, regionally and internationally. He was Acting Operation Officer at the time of his departure from that unit, to resume Beat and Patrol, and then to duties at the High Court.

During his period of service at the High Court, Skerritt was the recipient of numerous commendations by judges, prosecutors and defence lawyers, for the level of security he was able to ensure there.

Persons from whom commendations came included Senior High Court Judge Frederick Bruce-Lyle and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Williams.

The police stalwart participated in his last Independence Day Parade, October 27 last year, as the right hand

Station Sergeant Kenneth ‘Sky’ Skerritt received numerous commendations for his service to the High Court. marker of the No 1 Guard.

As he reflected on his more than three decades as a police officer, Skerritt identified the increased educational and training opportunities opened to police officers today as one of the more significant developments, and urged the young officers to make use of them. He also implored the “youngsters, to be more loyal to the organization and to strive for high heights.”

The outgoing officer, however, thinks there is need for improvement in general policing, and suggested that the constabulary go back to the drawing board in the area of investigation.

Skerritt expressed thanks to Almighty God, his family, colleagues and the general public for their support over the years.

Special arrangement for Bequia Music Fest PATRONS FROM MAINLAND St. Vincent, who have in the past, missed out on a full afternoon of music on the last Sunday of the Annual Mount Gay Bequia Music Fest, will be delighted with a gesture by a ferry operation here.

The M. V. Admiral 11 has added a special schedule to give the patrons an opportunity to enjoy, in full, this year’s Sunday Jam (January 25) that features prominent Vincentian soca artiste Winston Soso.

The Admiral will leave Bequia at 6:00pm on Sunday 25th January, giving patrons (from the mainland) more time on Bequia, and the opportunity to take in more of the Sunday Jam. Organisers of this year’s Bequia Music Fest, which remains the premier festival of its kind in SVG, are anticipating increased patronage this year.

The M.V. Admiral will offer mainland patrons to the Bequia Music Fest an opportunity to have more of a good time.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 17.

18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 19.

Heritage

Botanical Gardens: Celebrating 250 years going today, Friday 23rd, at 10:00am, with a re-enactment of the arrival of The St. Vincent and the Grenadines the breadfruit plant which was Botanical Gardens will celebrate its introduced to this country by Captain 250th Anniversary, April 23, 2015, Bligh, in 1793. described by some as a milestone of epic This activity took the form of a proportion. costumed parade from the Agricultural A year-long programme of activities, Input Warehouse on Lower Bay Street under the theme ‘The Botanical to the Gardens.

Gardens: From SVG to the World: Activities will continue on February Celebrating 250 Years (1795-2015) of 14, with a Valentine’s Moonlight Biodiversity and Conservation’, is Dinner to be held in the Amphitheatre slated to commemorate this landmark at the Gardens. Funds raised from event. this event will go towards the upkeep This programme was launched of the facility. Patrons are promised a officially last Monday, January 19, candle light dinner, steel pan music, during a ceremony held at the and moonlight walkthroughs.

Conference Room of the Public February will also bring the opening Library, Murray’s Road. of an ‘Interpretation Centre’ giving The ceremony was addressed by: details of the ‘Breadfruit Story’.

Hon. Cecil McKie, Minister of March promises the unveiling of the Tourism, Sport and Culture; Mr. ‘Hero Stone’ and tree planting on Andrew Wilson, Director of SVG National Heroes Day. National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Entrance to the Gardens will be free Authority; and Mr. Gordon Shallow, to the general public.

Curator of the Botanical Gardens.

Activities April - June: In April, a Activities January - March: The Cultural Fair/ Family Fun Day is 250th Anniversary programme got planned, during which local

by GLORIAH…

(traditional) bush tea, drumming, steel pan music, local art and craft, and local floral competitions will be featured.

On April 21st, the Gardens will host the Botanical Gardens Treasure Hunt for children ages 7 to 12 years.

The actual day, April 23, 2015, marking the actual day (April 23, 1795) when the Gardens was official opened, is dubbed ‘Botanical Gardens Day’. Visitors on that day are asked to “bring a plant and come”.

The Curator’s House will be the venue for an exhibition on May 1, and organisers of the celebrations have scheduled a ‘Back in Time Moonlight Cultural Night’, featuring old folk tales and creole food, for June 2.

July, August: During the month of July, a one-day scientific symposium looking at ‘The Botanical Gardens: From St. Vincent to the World’ will be held.

Then, on August 25th, an agricultural plot, displaying all of the key historic mono-crops which the Gardens produced in earlier times,

and other new plots and trails with finished produce, will be unveiled.

October - December: The month of October promises to be an exciting one for local and regional horticulturalists and persons interested in floral matters. On Independence Day, October 27, a ‘Regional Floral Competition’ will be held in the Gardens.

The staff of the Botanical Gardens will be recognized in a ‘Recognition and Awards Dinner’ slated for November 27.

In December, the Botanical Gardens adds to attractive and expanse of the already established Nine Mornings festival, with ‘Nine Evenings of Light Up’, during which the Gardens will be lighted in strategic areas for the nine evenings of the Nine Mornings period.

Evening concerts will also be staged.

In the words of one observer, “Every Vincentian should make it a serious effort to get involved in this milestone activity that celebrates something that is truly ours.”

Need we say more?

V Being No use begging compared 20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Dear George,

I did something very stupid, and I am now paying for it with my girlfriend not willing to forgive me, although it is the first time she has caught me doing such things. I want to know what kind of heart she has.

In the three years I’ve been with her, I have treated her like a queen.

She even brags to her girlfriends about the way I treat her.

This one time, I was on Skype chatting with a friend who resides in New York. I mistakenly sent a few messages to my girlfriend’s friend, thinking that it was my friend in NY. My girlfriend’s friend showed the messages to my girlfriend, who in turn decided to leave me out in the cold. She told me that the worst thing I said in my messages to this friend was that I am just with her for the

money, but she (my NY friend was the one I am really in love with. At the time of talking to this girl, I did not mean what I was saying; I just wanted to impress her a bit; but I guess it did not turn out that way.

George, is there anything that I can do to get my girlfriend back? I really do love her.

Sad-Stupid Dear Sad-Stupid, I am not going to tell you to go crying to your girlfriend and beg for a licence to return to her.

You have to realise that you did a very foolish thing which hurt your girlfriend terribly. It is certainly wisdom, on her part, to have sent you packing rather than remaining in the relationship and wait for you to leave her hanging, like you indicated to this NY friend.

You need to grow up

to her ‘Ex’ Dear George, PLEASE tell my wife that not because I do not measure up to her ex- husband in bed, that I am suddenly ‘a let-down’. Every time we have sex, she finds some way to compare me to this man. The last time we were at it, I was a bit rough (sometimes only), and she, right there and then, said that I reminded her of this man, calling his name and all.

George I am sick and tired of being compared to this so and so. The worst comparison she ever made was when she said if only I had a few more inches like ….. , calling his Dear George, name again, our sex life would have been perfect.

My 14-year-old son has not been going to school like he said he was, and Well, George, I have a I plan to go to see the school. newsflash for her! I am not I recently found out, after coming down on him, that he has not been in school for over 2 weeks now. Someone told me that he could be doing this man, and I will never be this man, and if she cannot be drugs, but I do not believe that. The only thing with him is that I satisfied with me, she has to go noticed his behaviour is sometimes a little strange. On one occasion, I back and meet him! Am I caught him trying to sell some of my jewellery. That is all I have to go wrong? on.

Other than that, he is a good child; but the absence from school is bothering me. I am so lost right now. All of this problems with him FedUP started right after the death of his father, but I would always ask him if he was alright, and he would always tell me yes. Now I am seeing Dear FedUP, things are different in a way, and I need to know how to tackle it.

I do not know how much premarital counselling you had got Worried M. if you did see someone after your marriage. Nonetheless, I Dear Worried M, am strongly suggesting that The responsible thing to have done was to you go see a marriage get your son some professional help after the counsellor straightway. death of his father, especially that you This idea of making noticed some kind of behaviour change. It is comparisons with the past or not too late to do this, and you should do so present is not a healthy one, as soon as possible. and should stop immediately.

It would be useful to visit his school and Your wife needs to hear from talk to his teachers and establish a stronger you how much damage she is contact with the people in his circle. It causing by comparing you to should not have taken 2 weeks before you someone who is no longer in observed that he has been missing school. her life. She needs to find a This is a good time to see a professional way to focus on what is great counsellor with your son, so as to address about you, and what can be the underlying issues that could be pushing done together to make things him in a direction that’s bad for him. He needs your help and guidance now more than even more exciting, rather than ever, and what is good about all of this is pointing fingers. Go get the that you stand to benefit as well. counselling!

and quit playing with other people’s emotions.

Being in a relationship calls for commitment and trust, and if are not at the point where you are mature enough to demonstrate these

attributes, then I strongly suggest that you be honest with yourself, and refrain from getting involved in a relationship.

Problems with my teenage son

George

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Throw yourself into your profession. You need to do more research before you make your final decision. You may find that purchases or entertainment could be expensive. Go out with friends who are positive and supportive.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Although it does look promising, be careful not to overextend yourself or you will lose in the long run. Talk to your emotional partner about your intentions.

You'll be pleased with the results if you take the time to decorate your home.

Don't trust coworkers with important or personal in formation.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) This will not be the day to start new business ventures or make drastic changes in your career. Be firm when dealing with matters pertaining to your environment. An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation. Opportunities will unfold; however, you must be willing to pay the price.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Visit friends or relatives you rarely see.

Go over your finances and figure out a solid budget. You may find it difficult to communicate with someone at work.

Try to address the real issues in order to turn things around.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You have been stagnating for some time now and you need a change of pace. Try not to be too aggressive or judgmental when talking to your mate.

Sudden changes at home will affect family members more than you anticipated. Overindulgence may cause conflicts.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You may have the energy to clear up that mound of paperwork facing you.

You will find your vitality is lowered. This will not be the best day to make changes or renovations to your residence. Praise will be yours if you

have been pursuing your goals.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may be somewhat emotional concerning a rather private matter. You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel. You could meet potential new mates if you go out with friends or take pleasure trips.

Be careful not to divulge secret information this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Money can be made if your are willing to take a chance. Empty promises are evident; therefore, get it in writing, to be safe. Trips will be more than adventurous. If you haven't planned a vacation, then at least try to get away for the weekend.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't forget that your budget is limited right now. Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together.

Unreliable people will be negative about your ideas.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Overindulgence will mean poor health.

You have to believe in yourself and your talents. Be careful if a friend asks you for advice. Someone important may be watching you from afar.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Your ability to do detailed work will dazzle those who are less creative.

Opportunities to travel will be favorable in terms of moneymaking connections.

Try not to hesitate; act on your initial instincts. Things will be emotional with your mate.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Travel could turn out to be more exciting than you imagined. Moves or the possibility of having someone different living with you may be difficult at first.

Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. The stamina you possess will be apparent in your approach to your hobbies and creative projects.

ACROSS 1.Jar covers 5. Pea capsule 8. Actress Gershon 12. Draft status (hyph.)

13. Flagon filler 14. Author Leon __ 15. Controversial rights gp.

16. What a bar bouncer checks 17. Camera part 18. Bird of prey 20. Strike lightly 22. Sheep she 23. “…thing we have to fear is fear __” (FDR) 27. Forsaken 29. Yoko __ 30. Caustic solution 31. Clark Kent’s crush 32. “__ King” 33. Ore deposit 34. Actress Sothern 35. Cries of delight 36. __ and groan 37. Two-piece swimsuit

39. Argument against 40. 9-digit item (abbr.)

41. To a great degree 45. Cars from Munich 48. “__ Hard” 50. Paper unit 51. In __ of (replacing) 52. Boise’s state (abbr.)

53. Rocker Clapton 54. Longon gallery 55. Republican 11. Donkey party’s Inits. 19. __ up to 56. Singer (admit) Cantrell 21. From __ Z (2 wds.)

DOWN 24. Director Kazan 1.Be idle 25. Singer 2. Andes native Loretta 3. Farmer’s 26. Repairman’s locale tab 4. Cups’ mates 27. Anderson of 5. Patriot “WKRP” Thomas 28. Swine sound 6. Mature 29. Finds 7. Kismet acceptable 8. Takes big 31. Scientist’s swallows rm.

9. Great wrath 32. Bash 10. Diarist Anais 33. Dog of __ mixed breed

35. Question’s opposite (abbr.)

36. “Me”, in Paris 38. Magazine unit 39. Costing little 42. Zeus’s wife

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 21.

43. Reclined 44. Local gym (abbr.)

45. Sandwich initials 46. “Mamma __!”

47. Dampen 49. Bride’s answer (2 wds.)

22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 23.

Another exciting weekend of T20 played at the same venue, Combined Youths gave former champions Victors POLICE TWO, demonstrating ONE a scare when they a rare disciplined came within 12 runs of performance with bat and victory. ball last Sunday, easily Winning the toss and disposed of Rivals TWO by asking their opponents to 107 runs at Arnos Vale take first knock, Atticus TWO, when action in the Browne and Donwell Neil Williams National T20 Hecto, both 34, and tournament continued last Chrisroy John, 28, pushed weekend.

Victors ONE to 154/6.

Batting first, Police Marlon Farrell, 3/26, was TWO got to 162/7 in their the most successful bowler allotted 20 overs. Danson for Combined Youths.

Andrews, 48, and Salvan Faced with an asking Browne, 20, leading the rate of seven and a half an batting. Andrews struck over, Combined Youths’ two sixes and two fours Oneil Endeavour, 34 and while Browne cleared the Marlon Farrell, 25, fence on the full twice. seemed to have set them Set a target of just over on course, with 16 needed eight runs an over, Rivals from 12 with one wicket in TWO faltered badly, hand. But the apparent stumbling from 15/0 to inexperience of the 22/6, before folding for 55 batsmen proved their in 12 overs. downfall, as they were Leg spinner Elmore dismissed off the third ball Alexander, 3/2, off spinner of the final over for 142.

Kenneth Dember 2/22 and Medium pacer Alex pacer Mohammad Lavia, Jessop, 3/14, and pacer 2/11, proved the undoing Shaquille Browne, 3/25, of Rivals TWO. made the difference.

In an earlier match Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

LIME Radcliffe batsman Rodney Lawrence hits over long on during his unbeaten 82. by 61 runs at Sion Hill.

Scores: Rivals 152 for 3 from their 20 overs, Harley Skerritt 60; And at the main Arnos However, Rodney the early static by bowling Radcliffe Too 91, Deighton Butler 3/14 and Olanzo Vale Playing Field, Lime Lawrence, batting at Ashley Cordice (0) with Jackson 2 /12.

Radcliffe handed number four, took control his third ball without a Guardian General Buccament Android a of the innings, as he run on the board, and it Saints beat Bequia by defeat, victory coming by smashed 82*, including was all sorts of problem nine wickets at Arnos Vale 94 runs. seven fours, three sixes after that.

Two. SCORES: Lime and a five. He added 47 The innings came to a Bequia scored 119, Radcliffe 156/6 (20 overs), for the fifth wicket, with spectacular end, with the Chelson Stowe making 29 Buccament Bay Android Richie Richards (26) and last five wickets going 62 (12.5 overs). fifty-seven for the sixth down for six runs -57/6 to and Mesach Williams 28.

Teran Simon took 3/32 Choosing to bat after wicket with Urnel Thomas 62/10, with off spinner and Ray Charles 2/19. winning the toss, Lime (15).

Richards collecting 3/1 Saints 120/1, Rickford Radcliffe found themselves Buccament Bay from two overs.

Walker getting 37, Zane staring down the barrel at Android went out, hoping Some other results: 3/10 and 23/4, inside the to get a good signal, but it Defending champion Team Edwards 34 and Vincent Cupid jr. 31. first seven overs. was Lawrence who created Rivals beat Radcliffe Too

Police batsman Salvan Browne drives through the covers during the victory over Rivals TWO.

Windwards make early exit...again FORMER CHAMPIONS, Windward Islands, for the second time in as many years, suffered the embarrassment of being eliminated at the preliminary stage of the NAGICO Super50, with new West Indies test player, Kenroy Peters, not good enough to break into the first eleven.

But unlike 2014 when they lost all three matches, this year they suffered one defeat, had one match abandoned, and beat dethroned champions, Barbados, in a high-scoring affair.

In their opening match, the Windwards Volcanoes, as they are now known, caved in under the weight of the Guyana Jaguars’ spin arsenal, with leftarm spinner Veerasammy Permaul,4/12 from ten overs, in an impressive display of controlled attacking spin bowling.

The Windwards were shot out for 85 in 33.4 overs, with Sunil Ambris 26*, looking the most assured of the batsmen.

Guyana had earlier recovered from the early loss of two wickets to post a challenging 227/6.

The Volcanoes’ chances of advancing to the semi-finals of the competition were left submerged, after rain and a wet outfield forced the abandonment

their match against the CCC, at Couva.

Highly disappointed by the washout, the Volcanoes went into their last match against defending champions Barbados Pride, with both teams facing the prospect of elimination. It was the Volcanoes who blew their top with a massive display of power hitting.

Led by the red hot Johnson Charles, the Volcanoes reached 374/6 in their 50 overs, then dismissed their opponents for 319, to win by 55 runs.

Charles smashed a record-breaking 177 off 124 balls with 12 fours and 11 sixes. It was the highest individual score in the history of the regional One Day tournament. It was Charles’ second score in excess of 150 against Barbados in recent times -having hit 151 in their four day PCL match at Arnos Vale in December, to record then, his maiden first class century.

Ambris was unbeaten, once more, with 45. Shane Shillingford also got 45, and opener Devon Smith, 37, and Keddy Lesporis, 31, were also among the runs.

Seamer Javon Searles led for Barbados with three for 60.

In reply, Barbados, behind captain Kevin Stoute’s 82, Shamarh Brooks’ 61

Johnson Charles smashed a recordbreaking 177 off 124 balls, to set the Windwards on their way to victory against Barbados.

Delorn Johnson showed some old fire and helped stop the Barbadians short of their victory target against the Windwards.

and Shai Hope’s 58, put up a game fight, but fell for 319 in the 49th over, with left-arm pacer Delorn Johnson, 4/63, and off-spinner Shillingford,2/62, leading the Volcanoes’ bowling.

The Windwards were given a lifeline to the semi-finals, with the CCC needing

to beat the Jaguars in their last match to take the spot. The CCC edged along in deep trouble at 112/8 chasing 171. But, in a nail-biting and tense finish, the CCC squeezed home by one wicket, with a ball to spare.

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24. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Brain freeze IT WAS SAD hearing the comments levelled at our West Indian cricketers after the third One Day International which, unquestionably, exposed our brittleness as a unit.

They pointed to the thought pattern that the players display. Without going into an epistle which would highlight what they were saying, I will be otherwise, anxious to know what drives the players.

One would have thought that the South Africa series would have been used as a preparation period for the World Cup. Instead, there seems to be a frozen atmosphere that hangs over the squad.

The chemistry is missing. We are going through the motion.

Our display has reached an all-time low. Debate is raging about the Dwayne Bravo -Kieron Pollard omission. We will never know what difference they would have made.

Questions about the policy of the West Indies selectors are swirling, a concern that attracts greater scrutiny with every West Indies appearance.

It doesn’t have to be a loss to fuel the flame.

Chris Gayle was direct in his condemnation, (even) after the West Indies secured a rare series win.

That was in the T/20 format in South Africa. Since then, it has been back to normal for the lads; that is complete humiliation like in the Tests.

In the meantime, Bravo and Pollard are being made to look like victims of the most unjust order.

No matter who is to be blamed for what happened in India, and what was decided, it will be hypocritical of the West Indies Cricket Board to have Bravo on any squad. That would have been a recipe for further chaos.

The WICB might be the worst administration.

But if they have to pick a team, those selected ought to be subject to some form of conditions.

Bravo can argue that he is the one who puts his life at risk. Given the tradition of cricket in the region, players should be proud to represent the region.

If he followed the line of his compatriot C.L.R. James and realise that this thing ‘goes beyond the boundary’, he will appreciate that the boundary extends further than the mound in Jamaica, where the West Indies players celebrated with the crowd, having just lost a test match.

The scenario surrounding the aborted tour is well known. The repercussions continue to reverberate, and the spectre of West Indies cricket has been dealt a serious setback.

The region has lost its sense of identity. We are too anxious to relinquish our dignity for the opportunity to be counted among the elites.

The staging of the World Cup in the Caribbean 2007 was an example of the region’s spinelessness.

It was only after the horse had bolted, that the region showed any sense of identity characteristic of the zone.

West Indies have suffered from some questionable ICC rulings. Our dethronement after 15 years at the helm came as relief to the rest of the world.

Being the carefree area emerging from a series of complex mysteries, we have found ourselves in a situation prone to the tendencies of divide and rule.

The political landscape and colonial legacy have added to the cauldron that make regional cricket something of a nightmare. Sport is too critical to a nation for there not to be interference by government.

Sporting facilities are investments that pay as much dividends as any other segment of social or infrastructural enhancement. Barring agriculture, there is no better way to ensure that your population remains healthy. The story has been told over and over. We must take it seriously.

Some of the athletes who could be in Barbados next month.

‘Mercy’ eyeing Barbados Relay Fair IN SEARCH of better and more competition for its membership, one of this country’s leading Track and Field Clubs, Integrated Training to Develop Athletic Talent (IT-DAT), will embark on a talent testing excursion to Barbados next month, according to club Director, Michael ‘Mercy’ Ollivierre.

The Club, once it is able to raise the necessary funds to afford the trip, would participate in the Barbados Relay Fair, set for Valentine’s Day, February 14, at that Barbados National Stadium.

Ollivierre, seen by many as controversial but innovative, said he decided to embark on the Barbados trip, “because there is little happening here to help athletes to progress at a rate which will help them to be competitive on the regional and international circuit.”

He added, “There is not much happening, and I cannot allow my athletes to remain idly, all whom, I assume, entertain ambition of being a Kirani James who is just a few miles away in Grenada.

James, a Grenadian, competes in the 200 and 400 metres. He won the 400 m at the World Championships in 2011 and is the

reigning Olympic champion, winning the 400 metres at London 2012 Games. He was Grenada’s first Olympic medallist in any sport.

Ollivierre, among SVG’s most highly qualified coaches, was honoured by organisers of the Penn Relays for being the most successful boys team coach, for his work with the Jamaica AAA. He, however, has been very critical of local teams, primarily the Thomas Saunders Secondary, for travelling to the Penn Relays, since, according to him, their standards and times here are not good enough to make any impact on the competition.

He dismisses suggestions that his Barbados outing may have similar results, citing the quality of the athletes, their level of training and fitness as encouraging.

“We are going to finish in the top three of every event we take part in…..I am confident of the guys I have been working with, and as the most successful Boys coach in the history of the Penn Relays, I will not take a team to such an event, as the one in Barbados, with no hope of doing

Bentick is new Squash President NEW PRESIDENT of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association, James Bentick, does not see any conflict in him serving as head of the organisation and as national coach.

According to him, he sees it as helping him to see both perspectives and have hands on knowledge of the affairs of the Association.

Bentick, who took over from Dr Sherian Slater last Saturday when the Association held its Annual General Meeting at the National Squash Center at Paul’s Avenue, in accepting the post, said, “Being the President and coach, nothing should take away, it should only enhance…I think it will be more motivation, as I will be able to push and mentor the kids.”

Expressing that it was not

Something has caught the attention of IT-DAT Coach/Director, Michael ‘Mercy’ Ollivierre (right), and cricket boss Kishore Shallow. well…..never!’

He said some athletes who were initially among the first choice could find themselves facing disciplinary action, but it is his intention to take 16 athletes, eight in the Under-20 and eight in the over-20.

The SVG Club, all things settled, will compete in the 4x100, the 4x400 and the Medley relay, which comprises two legs of 200 metres, with the others being 400 metres and 800 metres. The open 4x800 metres is also part of the package.

The Relay Fair will also see competition in the Under-11, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17 and Over-45 categories.

Reports say that in addition to IT-DAT, athletes from the St Vincent Grammar School and the Thomas Saunders Secondary School are also expected to strut their stuff on the Barbadian track.

really his desire before now, to head the organisation, as coaching is his first love, Bentick admitted, “I have been around Squash for fifteen years now, and I thought it was time to take the helm, and I think 2015 New Squash President, James Bentick, is a good time to start.” takes over charge of the ‘squash baton’, He is especially from Dr Sherian Slater. buoyed by the fact that the sport will be at the Bentick will be supported by receiving end of funding through Vice President Dominic Ross, the Mustique Charitable Trust.

Secretary Eldena Adams, “There will be some added funding, which will mean that the Treasurer Dr Sherian Slater, kids will be able to travel more, go Public Relations Officer Kevin Hannaway, and Committee to more tournaments and get members Neal Jackman and Ann more exposure,” Bentick cited.

Miller.

The new president is banking Janine Doyle will serve as the on the other members of his Junior players’ representative on executive in making his 2015the executive.

2016 tenure a fruitful one.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 25.

Education

New bus for N. Windward students THE STUDENTS of North Windward area will soon have the service of a new school bus.

Speaking at the launch of the Gospel Album on Tuesday, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said the vehicle could be in service as soon as next week, and that it will cost EC$250,000 duty free.

“And with duty, it would be over half a million,” he said.

Some $200,000 have already been paid towards the vehicle, he said, with contributions coming from the Mustique Company ($100,000), PetroCaribe ($50,000) and the National Lotteries Authority ($50,000).

Coreas Hazells, the agents for that brand of vehicle, has also contributed by giving a discount of $15,000.

“So that all that remains for my office is the balance, which is not a great deal, and the insurance”, the Prime Minister assured.

The new bus has a carrying capacity of 30 persons, is air-conditioned and offers leather seats.

“I don’t know if the children from North Central and those from North

Leeward, because those are distant places, are going to come to me for airconditioned buses with leather covered seats,” Gonsalves mused.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Representative for the North Windward area, Montgomery Daniel, has been charged with the responsibility of providing a list of candidates for the job of bus driver.

The Prime Minister suggested that a mature individual would be the ideal candidate.

The acquisition and commissioning

Could this be what the new bus would look like? We’ll wait and see.

of the new bus come following last Faith Mission Church in Fancy. week’s fatal crash of a mini-bus, which Another vehicle has been deployed was transporting students from the temporarily, the prime minister said, area, as per a contract with the State. until the new bus arrives.

The bus was owned by the Apostolic

LIME continues its assistance to schools THE LODGE VILLAGE and Dorsetshire Government schools, recent recipients of textbook covers were again on the receiving end of telecommunications service provider LIME’s generosity.

Earlier this week, LIME Marketing Assistant Veronique Williams handed over a Nexus 7 tablet to Shirlia John, Grade Six The Grade Six students of the Lodge Village teacher at the Lodge Village Government School are a happier bunch, Government School, after the students had read essays pointing having received the assistance of a tablet from LIME. out the significance of, and thanking LIME for the book wireless mouse and keyboard. covers.

During the handover of the text book The class was presented with the covers, the school made the request for tablet with the intention of enhancing the computer, which they indicated the learning process in the classroom, would assist the staff in their and since the tablet can be used as a administrative work. phone, John has added the names and Head Teacher at the Dorsetshire numbers of the parents into the device, School, Olive Allen, expressed gratitude so that getting information to and from on behalf of the students and teachers them is right at her fingertips. for the gesture, saying that the gift The Dorsetshire Hill Government would go a long way in the educational School also received an extra gift from advancement of the students, at her LIME - a brand new touch screen institution. desktop computer, equipped with

26. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015. 27.

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GOSPEL ALBUM LAUNCHED TO ASSIST FAMILIES New cemetery for fancy ON TUESDAY OF THIS WEEK, Cabinet Room took on a different atmosphere from that usually associated with the weekly deliberations of this government’s Cabinet, when it played host to the launch of an album of Gospel Music.

The Album, featuring the voices of ‘Voice of Praise’, a choir of seven employees in the Office of the Prime Minister, will go on sale at $20.00 a copy, and receipts from sales will go towards assisting the families of those who died in last week’s deadly crash at Rock Gutter, Fancy/Owia.

Speaking at Tuesday’s launch, Godfred Pompey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, for which the Prime Minister has responsibility, explained that the album “is the

Members of ‘Voice of Praise’ have put their talent towards the cause of raising funds to assist the families who suffered loss and pain as a result of the accident at Rock Gutter.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister, outlined plans for Sunday’s funeral service which will precede burial of the five victims in the new Fancy ceremony. end product of a project which started about seven years ago.”

According to Pompey, “Our Ministry, annually and on special occasions, engage in prayer

sessions, at which time our choir was requested to minister to our hearts, and bless our hearts in song, and in so doing, the ladies have evolved into a choir. It’s a national loss (the Rock Gutter tragedy) and it is the first effort of the choir, given our present circumstances,” he continued.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who also addressed the launch, reiterated the money raised from sale of the album will be put into a fund to assist those affected by the

tragedy.

“This is the way in which we are proceeding,” he said.

On how the State will proceed as per Sunday’s burial of the five victims, the Prime Minister assured, “Here at the Office of the Prime Minister, in conjunction with other agencies, we are at work having all the arrangements made properly.” He said that it was anticipated that thousands of people would be at the event.

“So we have to have seating under tents…we

are going to have 12 to 20 shuttle buses. We are trying to get the logistics right,” he said.

Medical personnel will be on hand, and the hospital in Georgetown is expected to be on special alert.

A number of agencies were involved in the process, the PM said, including the Carnival Development Committee and the National Lotteries Authority.

“I want to assure you that we are doing all our best. Putting, as best we can, all our efforts in, so

that these young persons can have something done in glory and to continue the healing process,” the prime minister said.

In related and timely news, the Prime Minister said that the new cemetery at Fancy was set to be consecrated before Sunday’s event.

He reported that the Chief Surveyor was expected to deliver the plan which the Attorney General would take to the printers so as to facilitate the official declaration of the site as the new cemetery.

No charges

DCP Reynold Hadaway spoke of it being premature to speak of charges at this point.

IT IS STILL YET to be determined if charges, and of what nature, will be brought against Ravanna Nanton, the driver of the mini-bus that plunged into the sea last Monday at Rock Gutter, resulting in the death of five students.

This is the word coming from Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Reynold Hadaway, while responding to a question posed during a Police press briefing on Wednesday.

“The matter is being investigated, and to state

whether or not at this juncture if charges will be laid, is a bit premature,” DCP Hadaway said.

He followed on, saying that the wreckage was expected to be taken out of the water in an effort to ascertain what may have caused the accident, The fatality, which occurred on January 12, claimed the lives of five students and injured 14 including the driver and

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

conductor, Pastor Ehud Myers of the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Fancy.

The bodies of two of the students on board are yet to be found.

The remains of the bus which police hope to have examined to help them determine the cause of the crash. (Facebook photo)

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