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FRIDAY,
NOVEMBER 06, 2015
VOLUME 109, No.45
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Calvert Bowens, Assistant Pastor of the Church that owned the minibus, is also charged. driver of the bus involved in the fatal accident, and A FIVE-MEMBER JURY conductor Ehud Myers has found three men and Calvert Bowens, culpable of Pastor and Assistant Manslaughter by Gross Pastor respectively of the Negligence, in the death Fancy Apostolic Church , of five (5) persons, some the church that owned nine (9) months after the bus. the bus in which they The atmosphere were travelling, outside the Georgetown overturned and plunged Magistrate’s Court was into the sea in an area one of heightened called Rock Gutter, expectations, with located between Owia relatives and friends and Fancy, on the connected in one way or Windward side of the another to those who had island. perished, awaiting the The jury, verdict. comprising four Inside, as the jury’s females and one male, verdict was announced, returned with the there was a mixture of unanimous decision relief and heartbreak, after about an hour of with one mother bursting deliberation, at the into tears. Nanton and closing of the Myers were visibly Coroner’s Inquest into sombre. the incident, last The incident that gave Tuesday, November 3, rise to a Coroner’s at the Georgetown Inquest occurred on Magistrate’s Court. Monday 12th January, Charges of 2015, when a minibus, Manslaughter by driven by Nanton, Gross Negligence were overturned in Rock leveled against Gutter, killing students Ranavan Nanton , Jamalie Edwards, Jamall by KENVILLE HORNE
Ranavan Nanton, driver, (left front back to camera) and Ehud Myers, conductor, have now to answer a charge of Manslaughter by Gross Negligence.
See Page 20 for further coverage.
Edwards, Racquel Ashton, Anique Alexander and Glenroy Michael. Continued on Page 3.
Rickie Burnette, Coroner, delivered a detailed summation over which the jury deliberated for close to an hour.
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2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
News
Participants in Vincy Voice Competition.
Vincy Voice Karaoke closing in on finals THE DIGICEL/THIRD EYE SECURITY Vincy Voice National Karaoke Competition continues to gain momentum as it rapidly approaches the final round of preliminaries. Five zones have been completed since the competition began in April. The judges have covered the length and breadth of the mainland with only the Grenadine zone left to be completed, on a date to be announced soon. So
far, some 103 persons have qualified for the semi-final round. The coordinators have hailed the competition as a tremendous success to date, with each zone bringing out hundreds of spectators and participants from their respective communities. The involvement of sponsors, Digicel and Third Eye, has been integral to
the smooth flowing success of the event. The semifinal round is tentatively scheduled to take place on December 5th, and the final on December 19th. To keep informed about the Vincy Voice Karaoke competition, check out their Facebook page.
NCTI launches online training facility
IN AN EFFORT to keep abreast with changing technology and fulfil its mandate to provide ICT training for all Vincentians, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Centre of Technological Innovation Inc. (SVGNCTI), a local computer training institute, has developed an Online-Learning Platform, offering training courses online and in real time. In doing so, the SVGNCTI has started a new chapter in its pursuit to bring innovative technology, convenience and cost savings to the institution’s operations and the general public, said a recent release by the SVGNCTI. While the recent initiative, e- Learning Management System (e-LMS), is considered a milestone for the institute, officials there assure that it marks only the beginning of the path towards achieving its long term goals, with respect to offering relevant training in technology use. And as it stands, the SVGNCTI is on its way to reaching a significant turning point in the history of the institution, having received financial contribution from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to carry out training for at least 20 fulltime and part-time tutors. The training began on the 14th October 2015. The event was highlighted by a short ceremony, the purpose of which was to officially launch the e-LMS training programme, and to recognize those institutions that made the e-LMS possible. During the ceremony, Mr. Cleveland Thomas, Area Representative of the ITU area office for the Caribbean, delivered remarks. Mr. Ulrick Sutherland, training facilitator, made a presentation on the structure of the e-LMS and the training programme. Ms. Sharon Bibby, Manager at the SVGNCTI, expressed gratitude for the financial assistance received from the ITU, and to mobile communications provider Digicel St. Vincent Ltd. for their sponsorship of Direct Internet Access to the SVGNCTI. Mr. Apollo Knights of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission was recognized for providing the site licence for Blackboard Collaborate to the SVGNCTI. The SVGNCTI plans to begin its first classes online by early 2016, offering the opportunity to train a wider cross section of the population, especially those living in rural communities and the Grenadines.
Ms. Sharon Bibby presented Certificates of appreciation to Mr. Carlon Browne, Business Solutions Manager Digicel, St.Vincent Ltd.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 3.
News 3
Three charged in Rock Gutter Tragedy testimonies.
Other testimonies
Staff Nurse Shirlon Hoyte, one of the adult passengers, testified that Continued from Page 1. the flat at Village Road, the van was going fine, during which he heard and then picked up speed Chanstacia Stay, a something “scraping” on at Rock Gutter. Hoyte, Form 3 student from the the road, the sound seated in the front, said North Union Secondary coming from under the she was speaking to the School, and Symonique bus. Burnette said that driver, and she never Ballantyne, a Form 3 the student testified that student from the he saw marks on the road realized the van was in Georgetown Secondary surface, from where he sat any difficulty until it began to pick up speed. School are yet to be found, in the back. The bus She noted that the driver supposedly lost in the began to pick up speed and conductor did not raging waters that going down the hill at speak to each other, characterize that area of Rock Gutter. neither did the van stop mainland St. Vincent. According to the after picking up the last Fourteen (14) of the testimony, everybody in twenty-one (21) the van started screaming, passenger. Ehud Myers, the passengers on the bus and then it hit a pole conductor, testified that were students of the North before going over into the the van was going along Union Secondary School, sea. The student testified very well on its journey, while 2 attended the that after being released however, at a certain Georgetown Secondary from hospital, he went point, he could feel the School and one the St. back to the spot and saw vehicle beginning to run Vincent Grammar School. the same mark in the very freely. He had no area, where he had heard conversation with the Coroner’s summation - the ‘scraping’. driver at this point. Myers Students’ testimony Another student, a also denied hearing any female, as per the ‘scraping’ or dragging In his summation, summation, testified that coming from the vehicle. Magistrate Rickie she heard something like Testimony was also Burnette, who presided a metal object falling out given by the driver’s over the Coroner’s of the van. The van cousin, Cassius Nanton, Inquest, said that several stopped for about a an auto-mechanic with persons had given minute, then the driver over twenty (20) years’ evidence in the matter. turned around and said experience. He told the According to Burnette, something to the some of those witnesses conductor. The van moved Inquest that on the day stated that sometime after slowly on, and then picked before the accident, the driver of the bus visited 6am on Monday 12th up speed at Rock Gutter. January, 2015, they The student testified that him, and asked him to service the van. The boarded the bus driven by she saw the driver mechanic said he changed Ranavan Nanton of Fancy, “pulling up something,” and on which Ehud Myers and when the van turned the oil filter and air filter, amongst other things, but was serving as conductor. the corner, it hit The bus made several something, at which point he did not change the brakes rubber as stops along the way, she blacked out. When requested by the driver. picking up mainly she regained He, instead, advised the students. consciousness, she found driver to “park up the One student, Burnette herself in the sea. van.” recalled, testified that the Burnette said several Another mechanic, minibus made a stop on students also gave similar McKenzie Roberts, also gave evidence. He claimed to have had a conversation with the driver of the bus. He confirmed to the driver that the bus had “brakes issues,” and also advised him to “park up the van.”
Driver testifies Driver Ranavan Nanton confirmed that he was employed by Ehud Myers to drive the van. Myers was responsible for making decisions concerning the van. The waters off Rock Gutter into which two students Nanton said the bus disappeared and have not been found to date. used to be serviced every
end of month by someone called Phillips, “unless there is an emergency.” He acknowledged that there had been emergencies between August 2014 and January 2015. He endorsed the testimony that he had requested his cousin to check the brakes master cylinder, but it was not on Sunday 11th January 2015, as was stated by his cousin. He denied being advised to “park up the van.” Nanton told the Inquest that on the fateful day, he checked the oil, the brakes liquid, the power steering oil and the radiator before he began his journey. While travelling, “the van was pulling good,” he said. On approaching the hill in the Rock Gutter area, he applied the brakes , and he had to “slow right down” because of the sand in the road. “Now, members of the jury, you will recall that some of the students in their testimony said the van came to a dead stop before going down the hill,” Burnette reminded the Jury. Coroner Burnette, in continuing his summation, recalled that Nanton had said he was in conversation with Staff Nurse Hoyte up to the time of slowing down the vehicle. On reaching the middle of the hill, Nanton said the brakes pedal went right in. He cut his conversation with Hoyte, and began thinking of what he was going to do. He started pumping the brakes, but the van continued to gain speed. Not finding a suitable place to “bank the vehicle”, he tried pulling the vehicle to the right after negotiating a corner, but the van tires began squealing because of the weight in the van, then it took a “heavy left” and ended up in the sea. The driver admitted that he didn’t apply the hand (emergency) brake because he didn’t think about that at the moment.
Police examination
The remains of the minibus were examined by appropriately trained members of the Royal SVG Police Force. The remains of the bus were examined by technicians from within the Royal SVG Police Force. Corporal Pope, a trained mechanic, told the Inquest that the remains of the vehicle pointed to issues surrounding the brakes, including very low disc pads and a missing bolt from the top of the right calliper, which caused the calliper to be dislodged and to rub against the inner part of the rim. However, Pope
admitted that he was in no position to say if the bolt was missing prior to the accident. Pope also noted that the hand brake was not intact when he viewed the wreckage. Barnette asked the jury to consider whether the accident was as a result of Misadventure or Manslaughter by Gross Negligence. The latter was agreed upon. The three were granted bail in the sum of $20,000 each, with 2 sureties.
OÊNeilÊs home targeted again FOR ABOUT ONE WEEK, ending 4 November 2015, the Leader of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan O’Neal, had very dangerous electricity delivered to his private residence in Harmony Hall by VINLEC. On Tuesday 3 November 2015, someone told Mr Ivan O’Neal that he saw sparks and smoke coming from VINLEC’s electricity pole, just outside Mr Ivan O’Neal’s residence. Ivan O’Neal, leader An electrician, called in of SVG Green by Mr Ivan O’Neal, made a Party, has had his number of checks and fair share of scare confirmed that the neutral but remains and positive wires were both resilient in his carrying electricity, but the quest to bring a source of the fault could not ‘different’ message. be located. VINLEC was called to ascertain the cause of the electricity problem. The VINLEC engineers discovered that the neutral electricity cable from VINLEC’s pole to Mr Ivan O’Neal’s residence had been disconnected by someone unknown and left to dangle. VINLEC engineers also confirmed that both the neutral and positive wires into Mr Ivan O’Neal’s residence were carrying live electricity, causing the neutral and the positive wires in his house to be both live at the same time. This could have caused electrocution of Mr Ivan O’Neal or other persons in his residence, or an electric fire which could have burned down his residence. In October 2015, persons committed another act of sabotage at Mr Ivan O’Neal’s residence by damaging Mr Ivan O’Neal’s election vehicle. (Contributed)
V Venezuelan leader calls for economic unity 4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
NEws
Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA that his very presence in the region was evidence THE PRESIDENT of that both regions were Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, forging ahead in its task has called for work to to form a united economic continue towards setting up zone. an economic zone that But the process was groups Latin America and under threat by what he the Caribbean. referred to as policies and While addressing empires of chaos. members of both the local Maduro used the and Venezuelan press example of Africa, here on Monday 2nd particularly Libya when, October during a brief in 2011 during the ‘Battle visit, the Venezuelan of Sirte’, Muammar leader said that the Gaddafi was killed. purpose of his visit was to He said that when put into practice what he Libya was invaded, the termed as a powerful and excuse used was that they efficient economic zone. were seeking to achieve “And we have the independence for the means to achieve this,” people. Maduro said. A similar situation was “We have to do it, and arising in Syria where, we want to do it. What is according to Maduro, missing is just to do it, to thousands of migrants build it,” he continued. were washing up dead According to Maduro, along the shorelines of the there was some old Mediterranean Sea. resistance that had taken For more than 500 on a new form and should years, Africa and other they be allowed to apply Southern Nations have those old theories, then been oppressed, Maduro the result would be the said, and there have been same – the vision of different excuses used. extreme poverty. “That is why what we He further explained are doing in the Caribbean
today is so important, and also Latin America We are laying the foundation for a world of peace, cooperation and stability, and the only way for those foundations to be strong is that people and governments are free,” he said. Unity, solidarity and brotherhood were the watchwords, President Nicolas Maduro on tour of the Argyle Maduro International Airport, the construction of which has continued. benefited from Venezuelan assistance. But a lot remains to be to welcome President Homes; Venezuelan done. Nicolas Maduro to our Students Studying Here “This is just the shores. Our foreign policy (& contributing to our beginning of the path that - a friend to all, satellite to economy); Expanded is going to take us through none - has benefitted our Investment from the 21st Century,” Maduro country immensely during PetroCaribe; and Deeper said. our tenure in government. Cooperation on Trade, Following President I am pleased to announce Travel and Commerce.” Maduro’s departure at that we have once again around 4:30 Monday, Right: Prime Minister delivered! Venezuela has Prime Minister Dr, Ralph committed to further Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Gosalves posted the also addressed the assistance to our country following on the Unity media and was including: 7,500 Tablets Labour Party facebook for Primary Students; 50 noticeably buoyant in page: “.. It was an honour ‘Petro Houses’ - Affordable his presentation.
FLOW gives to the KAS THE ENVIRONS at the Kingstown Anglican School (KAS) Annex located on Bay Street, recently received some much needed attention, compliments the management and staff of FLOW. Employees spent the day at the institution painting the interior and exterior walls, as the company observed ‘Mission Day’ last Thursday, October 29. According to Corey Garrett, FLOW St Vincent’s Marketing and Communications Manager: “And as part of those new mission statements, we decided that we want to give back to the community,” he said. Under the mission statement, Garrett continued, the objective is to connect with communities and transform lives. “And that is exactly what we are doing here,” he asserted. FLOW’s headquarters
is directly across from KAS, Garrett explained and so the decision was made to connect with the school and transform the lives of the students. The company also donated some fans, Corey informed. And he expressed the company’s commitment to continue working with the school. “[We} can’t say how or when just yet, but we will play our part moving from here to the future,” Garrett said. Meanwhile, principal of the KAS, Kenneth Burgin, expressed his gratitude for the work done by the FLOW team. He explained that Grades 3 through 6 have been occupying the facility since the fire damaged a section of the school in 2012. The facility houses in excess of 300 students including 96 who are preparing for the 2016 edition of the CPEA examinations.
The FLOW staff members who brought cheer and upliftment to the students and staff of the Kingstown Anglican School (KAS) Annex. According to Burgin, he expected that the new environment will be a boost for the teachers’ morale and ensure that the students feel comfortable and appreciated. “A little thing such as painting can make a big difference,” the principal said. Burgin also expressed his gratitude for the donation of the fans, saying that the facility becomes uncomfortable with the heat, as the day progresses. Some of the Grade 6 students also expressed their gratitude. Rita Baker thanked FLOW for the work that
the company had done, saying, “I am very grateful for this school to be painted so that the younger children can see how beautiful their school is, and I am thankful that FLOW came to help paint.” Fellow classmate, Krishana Bennett also said thanks but added FLOW staffers did that she was particularly happy for not forget to attend to the exterior of the fans. the building. “We are happy so that when I am in the class and listening to Right: FLOW staffer the teacher that I will Gamal Andrews and be comfortable as I Antonella Medica get ready to sit the apply their painting CPEA and then move skills to one of the on to secondary classrooms. school,” Bennett said.
President Nicolas Maduro addressing local and Venezuelan media at the Argyle International Airport.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 5.
Regional
US students set for study in Cuba MICHIGAN State University announced last week that its medical students will be able to do part of their curriculum in Cuban hospital as of April 2016, and 30 students have
already applied to participate in the initiative. The announcement was made on the University’s website, and follows the recent the reestablishment of
The Calixto Garcia General Hospital, Havana, is renowned for providing specialized preventativecurative medical care and rehabilitation.
diplomatic relations between Washington and Havana. Michigan State University was among the first American institutions of higher learning to reach agreement with Cuban authorities, to develop a new course for the US students, which will count as part of their academic curriculum. According to the posting on the website, the initiative is expected to allow the students, supposedly all Americans, ‘to learn from a health system that has been a leader in identifying social factors influencing diseases and
working on their prevention.’ The students will also learn about community medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics and geriatrics. And the agreement also makes provision for practical attachments at Cuban health institutions. The Michigan State University students will be able to practice at the Calixto Garcia General Hospital, an institution in Havana, or at the Ramon Gonzalez Coro, which specializes in
The first batch of Michigan State University medical students are expected in Cuba by April 2016. obstetrics and gynecology. William Cunningham, from the Michigan State University faculty of medicine, said that this will be the first time that US medical students will be able to develop skills in three of the main hospitals in Havana, and get their credits on their
experience. The first group of students will be selected out of the fourth year of the medical course, in early April 2016. Diplomatic relations between the USA and Cuba were formally reestablished in July of this year. (Source: ASN)
Antigua police rap T&T Express THE ROYAL POLICE FORCE of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) has not taken kindly to a recent Trinidad and Tobago Express Newspaper article (Wednesday 21st October, 2015) that purports that, ‘There has also been a rising tide of crime against visitors on the tourist dependent islands of Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominica and Antigua’. In a statement released last week, the RPFAD described the article as “misinformation,” and said that they viewed the article “to be poor in taste, but it is also considered to be misguided, misleading and is standing on the precipice of maliciousness.” According to the Antigua Chronicle, the release went on to state, “In fact, statistics have shown that Antigua and Barbuda to date, have only recorded 5 murders; compared to those countries to which we are categorized.” None of the five murders had involved tourists, according to the Antigua Police. The RPFAB also referred to what they say has been “a significant reduction in gun related offences and criminal activities in general for
As of November 1, 2015, the number of murders in Antigua and Barbuda stood at 5, while the Trinidad and Tobago figure was 355. 2015, in comparison to previous years.” The Police hastened to admit however, “that although there have been anomalous reports of offences committed against visitors vacationing on the islands, there are no indications to substantiate such a statement,” the Antigua Chronicle reported. The RPFAB said that the least they were expecting, in the spirit of professional journalistic practices, was a retraction of the statement by the Trinidad Express. (Source: Antigua Chronicle)
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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
New Diaspora sporting, cultural ambassadors elated
Stories and photos by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT
(soca and/or calypso). The sporting and cultural ambassadors will have as one of their privileges, the right to carry a diplomatic passport.”
New Grounds-born Blucher, renowned as the Caribbean’s foremost “Gospel Diva”, also told THE VINCENTIAN that BOYEA-ASHBY and Gailene Windsor: “It is better to she was “truly honored for the Windsor (netball), and Evangelist receive it now” prime minister to award such a Bridget Blucher (gospel music) position. have all expressed elation with “It’s an honor that I’m very “It’s a great honor to be being Sporting and Cultural appreciative of, and it shows recognized in such a capacity Ambassadors of St. Vincent and that people recognize you before from your own,” she said, the Grenadines. you pass away,” Windsor, a adding, “but I do what the Lord The three were named among native of New Montrose, has appointed me to do in this 11 other “persons of merit and Kingstown told THE aspect. quality who have distinguished VINCENTIAN in an interview. “I always see myself as a themselves in the fields of “It’s better to receive it now, and proud Vincentian,” she culture and sports,” by Prime it’s such a nice feeling. continued. “God has given me Minister Dr. Ralph E. “I want to thank the people of an opportunity to touch so many Gonsalves, during his St. Vincent and the Grenadines, lives.” Independence Day, Oct. 27, and the Hon. Prime Minister address at Victoria Park, and his Cabinet for such an Boyea-Ashby: Pride and love Kingstown. honor,” added Windsor, who for country Boyea-Ashby and Windsor played netball for the nation live in Brooklyn, New York; from 1973 to 1979, and was a In her acceptance letter to while Blucher resides in netball administrator in the US Gonsalves, a copy of which was Kissimmee, Central Florida. for most of the years after obtained by THE The other ambassadors of migrating to Brooklyn. VINCENTIAN, Boyea-Ashby, “merit and quality” are: Lance “I will continue to work — and who hails from Richmond Hill, John (cricket); Ezra will work with the other Hendrickson and Marlon James ambassadors — in the interest of Kingstown, wrote that it was with “a sense of pride and love (football); Esther Robinson, getting things done for St. for country that I accept the Shirley Browne-Winsboro and Vincent and the Grenadines,” honor. Peggy Hull (netball); Adonal she continued. “As you so richly and rightly Foyle (basketball); and Wollis themed your message ‘Love for Christopher, James ‘Jamesy P’ Country’, I, too, have pledged Morgan, Carlton ‘CP’ Hall and Blucher: A proud Vincentian continued support for all Olson ‘Caribbean Pete’ Peters
Gailene Windsor is pleased that the designation of honour was granted before her passing.
Bridget Blucher considers it an honour to be recognized.
Vincentians both at home and here in the Diaspora,” wrote Boyea, who captained the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball team for 14 years. “I am not going to ask what my country could do for me,” she continued, referring partially to an all-too-famous maxim, popularized by slain US President John F. Kennedy, and alluded to by the prime minister in his Independence Address. “With God’s help, I will be actively involved in my nation’s building block, as I continue to
Stella BoyeaAshby pledged continued support for Vincentians at home and in the Diaspora.
practise love for country and the caring of each other,” BoyeaAshby said.
Other US-based Ambassadors Boyea-Ashby, Windsor and Blucher join other members of the Vincentian Diaspora who have previously been named Sporting/Cultural Ambassadors. They are: Winston Soso, Stanley “Luxie” Morris, Alston “Becket” Cyrus, Kevin Lyttle and Cyril N. “Scorcher” Thomas.
Diapora rallies around Vincy heat VINCENTIANS in the United States are generally rallying around Vincy Heat, the national football (soccer) team, as it attempts to beat the mighty US Soccer Team in a FIFA World Cup prequalifying match, on Friday, Nov. 13. The all-important 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier, semifinal round, takes place at Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri, in America’s heartland. “I make an appeal to Vincies; we’re one people,” said Sports Ambassador Stanley ‘Luxie’ Morris, a former national football captain and a member of the Brooklyn-based Local Organizing Committee (LOC). “I’m hoping the guys (players) will do well,” added Morris. Morris was speaking at a press conference and ‘Meet and Greet’ session Sunday night at Tropical Paradise Ballroom on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn, New York., hosted by the LOC, headed by Renson Haynes. As he appealed for greater support for Vincy Heat, Haynes said that the mere fact that Vincy Heat will be opposing the
US on its own turf is a major milestone. “It’s sort of emotional — to be honest with you,” he said, pausing intermittently, his voice getting hoarse and his eyes welling up with tears. “It’s a dream come true.” Newly-minted Sports Ambassadors Gailene Windsor and Stella BoyeaAshby — LOC members — also appealed to nationals to put their differences aside, and give their full support to Vincy Heat in the interest of nationhood. “We, as Vincentians, have to learn to separate politics from country,” said Windsor, a former national netball star. “It’s about us. We’re putting our country on the map, and we need the support.” “I’m not a pessimist,” said Boyea-Ashby, seated at the head table with Windsor, other LOC members, two members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), three Vincy Heat players and US Counsel General Selmon Walters. “We’re going to come out and give our support,” added Boyea-Ashby, who captained the national netball teams for 14 years.
“Forget everything else and focus on the love of country.” Dominique Stowe, event coordinator and SVGFF representative, pointed to the late release of most Vincy Heat players from their respective clubs in Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, Seattle (Washington), and England. He said, however, that most players were expected to travel to Barbados on Monday, to obtain visas at the US Embassy before heading to the US. Three US-based players — Seniard Bowens, Million Prescott and Oalex Anderson — were also present at last Sunday’s session. “I’ll like to thank the New York Committee,” Stowe said. “Just continue to put all hands on deck and make this a success. Without the fans, this will not be possible. Hope to see many of you in St. Louis come Nov. 13.” Earl “Caba” Bennett, SVGFF public relations officer, said it will be the nation’s seventh World Cup campaign, starting in 1992, and the fifth time
Public Relations Officer of the United VincieCultural Group in Brroklyn (UVCGB) and exnational netballer Judith “Baffy”Cuffy presents Tshirt to Vincy Heat players. that the team has reached the semifinal stage. “This is enough to make us proud,” he told the press conference, attended by community advocates and supporters, disclosing that the current World Cup campaign will cost in the region of EC$1.5m (US$1=EC$ 2.7). Judith ‘Baffy’ Cuffy, a former national netball star and public relations officer of the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCGB), presented the players with a box of 30 T-shirts for the game. UVCGB president, Dr.
Sports Ambassador and member of the LOC Stanley “Luxie” Morris addresses press conference.
Roxie Irish, also a former national netball star, told THE VINCENTIAN that her group has donated US$1,000 to the LOC for Vincy Heat’s campaign. “I will love to hear there was an upset. …. We need the support,” she said. Sporting activists and community advocates Joanne Legair, James Dominique Stowe, event Cordice and Kenlyn coordinator and SVGFF ‘Shortmus’ John are representative, organizing busloads of addressing press Vincentians to attend the conference. Nov. 13 match. Legair said the trip is proceeds will be handed endorsed by the LOC and over to them.” SVGFF, adding that “all
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 7.
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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 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
A Visit and seeing Red The Visit SO VENEZUELAN PRESIDENT Nicolas Maduro paid an ‘official’ visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, after all. As was the case with the recently aborted visit, there was little distant early warning, if any warning at all, of the coming of the President. From where we stand, all and sundry concerned with the visit, local Venezuelan Embassy staff, Foreign Affairs Ministry officials, Prime Minister Office staff, would have been running, caught up in a frenzy to ensure that ‘all’, if not a modicum of hospitality and protocol arrangements would have been set in place. Of course, the multitude of Venezuelan officials, military and otherwise, would have made their presence felt on the last minute arrangements. And it is that overwhelming presence of (other) Venezuelan officials that we want to address briefly in this piece. Why were members of the media and press personnel of the Prime Minister, treated to a rather uncouth side of Venezuelan officials who accompanied their President? More than one report has reached us that there was a degree of man-handling of accredited press persons here, by certain Venezuelans. What did they think? That we would have mounted or effected some sinister deed against their beloved president? Why were they allowed to ‘dictate’ the protocol, Venezuelan style, in a country whose press and other accredited personnel would have been total strangers, on sight, to them? This is the result of nothing else than a hastily put together visit that proved, what? That Venezuela was going to commit itself to further assistance to this country? That we had to endure being trodden underfoot because we have already been the recipient of Venezuela’s generosity? That Venezuela has been a primary contributor to the Argyle International Airport that some are already saying should be named after that country’s Bolivarian Revolutionary the late Hugo Chavez? All of that pales in the sight of local professionals being set asunder by Venezuelan officials on Vincentian soil. For certain, we have to extend a hand of thanks and appreciation for what Venezuela has done for us. And for certain, we have to find many more hands of gratitude to extend to all the traditional and not so traditional countries that have assisted us and continue to assist us. For certain ‘Thank Yous’ are in order. But let’s not sell our souls and birthright for a few barrels of oil, which, while we may receive at concessionary prices, we still have to pay for on demand. Our professionals must not be made to feel like foreigners in their own land.
Seeing Red And while we are on the talk of foreigners, let us establish here, before another word, that Michael Charles, our sitting Commissioner of Police, is a born Vincentian. He has rights, some would say are God-given rights, and those rights accorded him under the laws of this land. Cite for us, any law that the Commissioner broke when he paraded in ‘Red’ at a Unity Labour Party event. Cite for us any regulation(s) that he fractured. The thing is that there is a thin line between what is legal and what is moral. In fact, there is no morality in the law, hence democratic societies are wont to cultivate practices and norms, apart from the legalistic framework. So, Mr. Charles broke no law in the legal sense, but he may have done himself in, according to those norms and practices. Perhaps he should have taken the high moral ground and desisted from ‘reddening’ himself so publicly. On the other hand, don’t we quietly prefer that he did, that he committed his ‘act of immorality’ so that we need not now worry about whom he supports, once he upkeeps the noble tenets of the Royal SVG Police Force? Charlo, our friend, you broke no law, but perhaps if you had thought a little more before making your decision, you would have seen the wisdom of adhering to what society expects of you as a morally uplifting person, representing an esteemed and trusted office. Nuff said.
The RIOT and INDEPENDENCE ON THE OCCASION of the celebration of our 36th Independence birthday three Searchlight newspaper columnists - Renwick Rose, Adrian Fraser and Oscar Allen - as if by mental and emotional telepathy, produced impressive articles showing a real link between the 1935 riot and Independence. Oscar Allen was the only one to acknowledge that I had established the necessary linkage with Oswald Peters, Peters and I being the first persons to show the connection, in a Flambeau article in 1967. What follows below is a condensed version of one of my THIS WEEK articles, published in 1990. “THESE small Caribbean islands owe much to the series of spontaneous popular uprisings which took place along the entire archipelago in the 1930’s. In our particular case, the outburst of October 21, 1935, marked a watershed in our political landscape. Nothing was the same after that. It formed the crucible out of which Independence was to emerge over time. Yet, seventy two years ago, few calculated the importance of the civil commotions. For obvious reasons, officialdom sought to downplay it. And the colonially brainwashed tended to ignore or even condemn it. Noted historian Ebenezer Duncan saw the episode as a “blot” on the peaceful and orderly development of the country. Even Mc Intosh seemed to have been riddled with doubt. The masses had taken things into their own hands and hit the street, flouting his constitutionalist approach of letters and petitions seeking compromises and accommodation. It was the colonial office, with a mind-set that could not understand that the people could rise up on their own, that put Mc Intosh at the head of the small insurrection, so to speak. First of all, they simply asserted that Mc Intosh “is mainly responsible for staging the whole business.” Then they rationalized Mc Intosh’s own ambivalent and confused behaviour with the curt comment that “it looks as if he was trying to run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.” Ten days after the riot, the Town Board, then chaired by H.A. Davis, sent a resolution of solidarity, reportedly moved by Mc Intosh, to the Governor. This resolution tendered “its deep regret at the incident,” congratulated “the Government on the stand taken in suppressing the disorder”, and expressed its thanks to those “who readily came forward and rendered very valuable services.” Numbered among those volunteers were officers of the Representative Government Association itself. The Vice President wrote a personal letter to the Governor condemning the rioters who he said had behaved “like a bunch of uncivilized savages”, and offered his services to the Government in any capacity. In the prevailing climate, there was total black-out of news on the riot. It was not until 1967 that Oswald Peters and myself put the event in its proper light in an article in “Flambeau” entitled, “1935 Revisited”. After that break-through publication, the matter
gathered speed. The truth is that there was a strong dose of race coursing through the veins of the uprising, and coloured members of the R.G.A with one or two exceptions ultimately took a stand behind the White banner. Power and Whiteness coincided in colonial society so that any redefinition of the situation involved race. The preaching of Grenada’s Marryshow and, especially Marcus Garvey, had given fillip to the Black cause. Above all, Ebenezer Duncan had devoted much of the “Investigator” which he published, to the progress of the Italian-Abyssinian war. “Haile Selassie” became the name of a drink in St. Vincent as well as the sobriquet of the lower class leader Sheriff Lewis, who handled matters on the street. The African bond was regional. The colonial office reported that at the time in Grenada, a huge crowd had taken to the streets one day shouting, “We win. We win.” The Governor’s staff thought that it was in celebration of a local football victory, only to learn that the cause of the jubilation was Abyssinia’s recapture of the lost city Aduwa. Indeed, one colonial office correspondent made the wry observation that locally, the anti-white feeling generated by the war was such that if the Abyssinians (Ethiopians) won, “the repercussions might be more dangerous than they will be if Italy succeeds in annexing Abyssinia.” In the circumstances, as soon as news of the disturbances circulated, Mrs Grimble, wife of the Administrator, organized canteen arrangement and accommodation to cater for children of European descent who had sought refuge in the police Barracks. Three years before the outburst, a former Chief Justice of St. Vincent pontificated in the Port-of-Spain Gazette, “The negro will not work, as nature provides him with the necessaries of life so far as food is concerned. Two flour bags will make a suit of clothes, and it is always possible to beg a couple of kerosene tins to help in the construction of a palm-thatched hut.” The Moyne Commission which investigated the disturbances, confirmed that the majority Blacks were consigned to a life of economic misery and political stagnation. Their plight was total. As an old man Mc Kenzie used to preach to Sheriff “Haile Selassie” Lewis and others under an almond tree in the Market Square: “St. Vincent needs a riot.” A cleansing force! After the riot, it was not plain sailing. Some local persons wanted to turn back the hands of the clock. Fortunately the Colonial Office got the message and arranged a time-table of the constitutional advance leading up to full responsible government.” It is now “seventy-two years” since the riots of 1935 and twenty-eight years since the formal recovery of our Independence in 1979. Both events took place in the month of October, accidentally, with no connections. We need to bridge them and demonstrate that there is indeed a common thread linking them, the one being a natural precursor of the other.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 9.
Letters
Dodging some burning issues IT’S ELECTION season again. As usual, the Prime Minister is playing cat and mouse as far as announcing the date for elections is concerned. Nevertheless, the campaigns of the two main parties – the reds and the yellows – are in full swing, with a number of meetings on the same night. Soon, even though we have heard what one
party has done and how much more it promises, and we have heard how the other one hopes to take us out of our misery, we can expect that each party will launch its manifesto in grand style. We can expect the same old promises: talk of creating jobs; great plans for the health sector; boasts about continued assistance for
university education; loud noises about road construction, etc. But what I also want to hear from the two major parties is how they plan on dealing with: the minibus service in the country; the state of capital Kingstown, especially Little Tokyo; the traffic congestion; the real drug trafficking scourge; delinquency in the public sector; and the
general breakdown in law and order across the state. These are all issues that touch people’s corns, so I imagine our brave politicians would want to avoid them as best as they could. And therein lies the problem: our politicians lack the courage to deal with these re-occurring problems, resulting in them getting worse year
after year. The question: Who is brave enough to act now on these issues? But, Mr. Editor, regardless of how many grand plans the parties have for this country, they cannot, as they have done term after term, continue to ignore the issues that really matter to the people. I shudder to think that our election could be
decided on: who distributes the most handouts; who makes the most promises; who can provide the best entertainment; or who can tell the worst things about their opponents. Lord help us all. Hessian
Keep the NDP out Hear, fear, and Believe believe Yahweh it or not
REASONS why the electorate must keep the New Democratic Party (NDP) from forming the government: The New Democratic Party clearly has no plans for this country. If you listen to them closely, you will realize this is absolutely the truth. Take the international airport into consideration. How could you oppose a project like that? That is political suicide. They brag about having a team that includes three (3) persons with doctorates, but book sense doesn’t qualify you for anything and does not guarantee results. Take for instance the person who claims to be the ‘Major’. He would have spent, according to him, over 26 years pursuing education, yet, after all those years, he has nothing to show in any investment. Where are all those ideas about producing spices, plantain chips, ginger tea bags, etc.? Does he have to wait, according to him, on constituency funds? With all those big ideas about private sector development, why couldn’t he spearhead this area? Then all of a sudden, other members of his party seem to be supporting his idea (Constituency Funds), saying it is taxpayer’s money, so they have a right to spend taxpayers money as they see fit. The Leader for the party had to be propped up by Mr. Leacock and Mr. Cummings, MPs for Central and West Kingstown respectively, in a recent TV programme talking about ‘a hot seat’. They should listen to themselves and evaluate themselves. They simply don’t have a plan; they’re just trying to follow in the footsteps of the Prime Minister, and in doing so, they produce a comedy show. They simply can’t match the ULP, hence the reason to keep them out.
YAHWEH BRIDE will not compromise, in any way, that which is decreed as holy. Yahweh bride will honour the Commandments, including one that has been overlooked by multitudes.; one that has been misunderstood, mocked because the spirit of rebellion has entered and hardened hearts. Yet, Yahweh bride will now be held accountable, and some of us will hang our heads in shame, not knowing how you grieved Yahweh’s Ruach ah Kodesh (Holy Spirit), by not keeping Yahweh’s Sabbath Day holy (Exodus 31: 12-18). Your works must be done in six days, but on the seventh day you must rest - from Friday sunset until Saturday sunset. Pray and Yahweh will show you how to set these days apart, and teach you to rest in Yahweh. Your spiritual leaders, who have not taught this, must repent. Turn away from this evil of doing things man’s way, i.e. according to man-made doctrines. Flee from any spiritual leaders refusing to teach Yahweh holy words without compromise. Yahweh bride will honour Yahweh by keeping His Holy Sabbath. A sinful world you live in continues to teach rebellion, trashing or editing Yahweh’s Ten Commandments. Multitudes claiming to be believers in Yahweh are breaking the two tablets of stone once again, as Moses did. The rebellious children break Yahweh’s heart when they break Yahweh Commandments by keeping Sunday as they Sabbath. What is the Commandment? It is just a command, a law or order decreed from Yahweh. The same command on earth is followed as in heaven.
George Farrell
Yah descendent
Tribute to Osborne John OSBORNE ALBAN JOHN, born on January 5, 1932, was ushered into eternal glory on Tuesday, September 29, 2015, from the West Park Healthcare Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Osborne is survived by: Olive Cobran, his wife of 18 years; sons Lemuel and Samuel; daughters Perlita (Paul) Wismer, and Weslyn (Umaro) Djalo; brothers Leslie, Walter, Walton, Brian, Lenford, Desmond, Maxton; sister Dorothy; grandchildren Tyne, Elisha, Maya and Mae-Mina; great-grandson, Jaymes; and numerous loving nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by Edvira, his wife of over 30 years; son Shaun, brothers Dennis and Vivian, and sisters Georgina, Verna, Dorita and Seneema.
Osborne was a loving husband, father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, brother and friend to all. In spite of his humble beginnings, Osborne was an industrious man with many interests and hobbies, including: fishing, gardening, tailoring, upholstering and construction. He worked for just over 25 years at Toronto East General Hospital as a nursing attendant. Brother John, as he was referred to by some, especially enjoyed studying his King James Bible with his immediate family members, friends, West Indies Christian Fellowship group and church family. However, his primary passion was singing and playing beloved hymns on his accordion.
BELIEVE it or not, but it is a natural reality. When the political dust has settled in this St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2015-2016 general election, on one side of the political fence there will be emotional celebrations of “victory is mine said the Lord Jesus Christ”. And then on the other side of the political fence, you will see political disappointment if not political desperation. What this combined picture tells us is like what the only good book, the Blessed Bible, says, i.e. that there will be much political weeping, much political moaning and so much political gnashing of teeth. And you know, just like the good old times Reggae singer named Culture from Jamaica said in one of his hit songs: “Who don’t have any teeth, them gum going to feel it”. Time will tell. Believe it or not, only the Almighty Heavenly God knows.
Osborne frequently visited St. Vincent. In 2011 he became ill with a respiratory problem, which progressed until he had to be hospitalized in 2012. After 3 years and 3 months, he succumbed to his illness at West Park Healthcare Centre, where he had spent the last 27 months of his life. We express a special thank you to the staff and volunteers at West Park Healthcare Centre for their good humour, attentiveness, and compassionate care for who came to be affectionately known to them as ‘Papa’ or ‘Ozzie’. Also, thank you to the Mount Pleasant Group at Pine Hill Cemetery and Visitation Centre for their assistance with all of the funeral arrangements. Family and Friends
Lennox ‘Mano’ Pope
*Did we really have to inconvenience our health services by assigning our new MCMH ambulance to the President Maduro motorcade? *NDP told us a lot about their plans for a state-of-the-art hospital, but did they say exactly where in Calliaqua they are going to construct it? *Anybody else finds anything wrong with where the entrance to the uptown KFC outlet is positioned? Did somebody say something about the Planning Division in relation to this matter? *Why is the reception on Flow’s Channel 110 (SVGTV) so bad in certain areas of St. Vincent? *Will local poultry farmers guarantee a full supply of eggs for Christmas, or can we expect that we will have to resort to importing once again?
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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
The visit of President Nicolas Maduro; another victory for the ULP foreign relations policy
(Excerpts from the Hon. Arnhim Eustace’s Address at the NDP’s Rally at Calliaqua)
The issue AS A MODERN mass political party, the ULP has exhibited a foreign relations strategy that is bold and pragmatic, and aimed at bringing development benefits to the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Our beloved country is devoid of natural resources such as oil, gold, iron, timber or coal. The people of this country are the only natural resource available for development. Geothermal is on the horizon, but that has been discussed earlier. The foreign relations policy of the ULP has been hailed as a success by many independent observers. The central purpose has always been to address in a more efficacious way, the external environment, always in the interest of Vincentians. So the ULP administration employs its foreign relations policy to provide developmental benefits for the country. How well this has worked can be seen in the number of projects executed by the ULP over the last fourteen years. Some of these projects stand out, like the bridge over the Rabacca River, which is a product of the strong foreign relations developed with the government of the Republic of China on Taiwan. Our young Vincentians have been provided with scholarships to study abroad, because of the new thrust in foreign relations. This has allowed them to go to countries like Malaysia, Taiwan, Venezuela, Mexico, and Azerbaijan.
Change is on the way
one of the reasons why he included the governors of three of the states, whose borders are touched by the Caribbean Sea, in his delegation.
The Argyle International Airport
President Maduro had nothing but praise for the workers at the international airport, both the Cubans and the Vincentians, for the outstanding work done on the airport project so far. We must remember that the Caracas administration has provided over 271 million US dollars in assistance to this project. This is through concessionary and soft loans from the Alba bank and Petro Caribe. Let us not forget that it was Venezuela who provided the initial equipment for the start of the construction work at Argyle. Let us also not forget that it was Venezuela that provided the equipment for the critical wind studies, to determine the cross wind factor at Argyle. So it is clear to see that Venezuela has been a major contributor to the construction of the airport project at Argyle. It is also important to note that when the project began, our traditional friends, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, did not provide any tangible support. This is critical because it speaks to the fact President Nicolas Maduro that in the development of the new foreign relations strategy, the ULP is The ULP administration has committed to seeking new friends, developed close links with the while maintaining the old traditional government and people of the diplomatic relationships. Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The And in terms of the airport, and the late president, Hugo Chavez, has new foreign relations thrust, our new visited the country twice since the friends, including Austria, Turkey, ULP came to office in 2001, and Libya, and Iran, have all provided Venezuela has been a major assistance to that project. contributor to social and economic strategies in the state. Prime Conclusion examples are the Vision Now and the Lives to Live programmes, energy There can be no doubt that the visit initiatives, education and training, of President Nicolas Maduro has the delivery of computers for our heightened the diplomatic relations students, and the list goes on. between the countries of Venezuela So that it was expected that the and St.Vincent and the Grenadines. opposition NDP would engage in its Both leaders have developed a new usual unpatriotic behavior, in relation to the visit of President Maduro. Their relationship, a clearer bond of operatives on Face Book went to war, friendship, and a deeper understanding of the factors which calling the visit all kinds of are important for the development of derogatory names. The fact of the their citizens. matter is that the visit of President St.Vincent and the Grenadines has Maduro served to enhance the already developed a new stature, a new strong diplomatic relations between standing, among international both countries, and allowed both countries. The country is being heard, leaders to engage in bilateral exchanges on a wide range of matters. and the opinions of the relevant At the end of the day, the visit leaders in the country are being produced a number of benefits for sought on important issues such as Vincentians, including the provision of climate change and reparations for 7,500 top of the line tablets for our native genocide and slavery. This has primary school students, the never happened in our beloved construction of 50 “petro houses”, and country, and the ULP administration an opportunity for students from must take credit for this development. Venezuela, to travel here to learn The mantra that “no one is better English language. In addition, the than us, and we are not better than services provided through Petro anyone” is a key concept in this Caribe, and the Alba movement will be intensified, and there will be more regard. This is not like the NDP who opportunities for Vincentian students will contemplate on “what will America say” before they engage in a to study in Caracas. foreign policy strategy. They are not President Maduro has pledged his fit for leadership in this country, and support towards improving links that is why the people will return the between his country and St.Vincent ULP for a fourth term in office. Four and the Grenadines, in the areas of in a row!!!! commerce, trade and travel. That is
WE BELIEVE as a nation we must do better, that as a country we can do better. There is reason to be hopeful. Change is on the way. Tonight we take the opportunity to rekindle that hope and to keep that fire burning. The good book says weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning. Your joy will soon come. The nation’s joy will soon come. This long dark night will soon be over. The sun will rise again here in East St. George, and in North Leeward, and in South Central Windward, and through the Grenadines and all over Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. We know they are stalling to call the date, delaying the inevitable. Well, they can run, but they can’t hide. They cannot hide from you the people — and they cannot escape the winds of change. This sordid reign of the ULP will soon end. Their own polls tell them so. You the people have told us so. I am also particularly pleased to be here in East St George, a constituency which will come home for the NDP in the next general election. Brother Linton Lewis — a man who has come from among you; a man who has always been among you, is well placed to be your next representative. He is a special son of East St George; a brother to all of you; a son who has done well, and who will do well as a representative for all the people of this constituency. We are confident that Dr. Lewis, now a Senator, will transition well to being a member of parliament elected in the East St George constituency. And so tonight, I am more hopeful than ever. Your party — the New Democratic Party — has been articulating a series of policies and programs, a platform that will expand economic growth and lift people out of poverty. We will hit the ground running. Our development projects, backed by foreign direct investment, are on train to begin, when we take office. We are determined to expand the economy into new areas, particularly through the IT sector. While we bolster the traditional economy — by reinvesting in agriculture, we are determined to turn our backs on this long era of high debt and low growth. This team we have assembled here. These proven leaders, hard workers, you see here on the podium with me tonight, will take St Vincent and the Grenadines out of the red, and bring it into the light of economic revival. And we will do all of this by practising a new brand of politics — where bad behaviour in office; where nepotism and corruption; waste, and insults, bombast; where personal irresponsibility, will become a thing of the past. The New Democratic Party is determined not to build just another society — but a just society based on morality, transparency and meritocracy. And that is what our campaign is about. I am here to announce to the whole of St Vincent and the Grenadines, that help is on the way. For the single mother, who does not know where the next meal is coming from to feed her child. Hold on. Help is on the way. For the banana farmer, who has been
abandoned, we say: Hold on! Help is on the way. For the young men and women who graduated from college more than six years ago, and still have not found jobs. Hold on! Help is on the way. For the people needing quality medical care, we say: Hold on! Help is on the way. To you the people of East St George… we say HOLD ON… help is on the way. Our young people in IT; in arts; in culture. All you young people, who want to make your way. Hold on. Help is on the way. In the next few weeks as we embark on this campaign of change, I will expound on our many plans to grow the economy and expand possibilities. But tonight we are focusing on one of the most crucial areas for any governmental endeavour — and that is healthcare. No nation is worthy of its name if its government is unable or unwilling to take care of its people. What could be more fundamental to the role of a good Vincentian government than safeguarding the welfare of Vincentians? Our people must not suffer and die just because government has failed to invest in their own health. Health care has never been a priority of this ULP administration – and people have suffered and died because of it. This must change! This will change! I do not have to stand here tonight to tell you of the terribly low standard of our health care system. You live through the nightmare. And you have already been reminded on this platform tonight about all those issues. You have seen the powerful testimonial video of one of my constituents. I am here to tell you that it does not have to be that way. And that under an NDP government it will be different. It will be better. And that is why also I told you tonight that I could not have been prouder — because of our plans for the health sector. Because finally, through the incoming NDP government, St. Vincent will eliminate the biggest killer of Vincentians. Not cancer or AIDS or diabetes or kidney disease — it’s the scourge of poverty. Poverty that prevents many Vincentians from being able to afford to eat daily and healthily, from being educated about their bodies, from buying medicines, from accessing quality hospital services. Poverty! That is why we have a threepronged approach to national health. The first important pillar is promoting wellness. The cost of health care could be cut drastically, if we work to ensure that our people do not get sick in the first place. A lot of the health challenges we face in St Vincent and the Grenadines are from lifestyle diseases — things such as obesity, diabetes and some types of cancer. An NDP government will move aggressively to implement a public policy that will promote healthy lifestyles and good nutrition through education and awareness.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 11.
Views
Hiding in plain sight The future is now
“Never pretend to be who you are not. It doesn’t take long before the truth gets revealed and you’ll be left hurt with the results.” Kemi Sogunle, American author and life coach.
IT IS OFTEN QUITE amazing what we will seek to do to avoid persons knowing who we really are. It is equally mindboggling to discover the lengths that some individuals will go to, in an effort to prevent others from seeing their true self. We seem to become so vulnerable when others become aware of our weaknesses and/or failures. We can become so paranoid when persons get close to discovering our true selves. As a result of this, we seem to masquerade as being “super nice”; highlighting the good parts of our character and neglecting to let others know that we also have faults. However, people often have a way of seeing through our façade. This is easily observed when little children make statements in relation to how they see us as parents, teachers, leaders, or mentors. They can often accurately discern who we are, even though we may seek to hide in plain sight. There are a host of reasons why we may attempt to hide in plain sight. When attending a job interview, we always seek to put forward our “best side”. After all, we want the potential employer to conclude that we have the skills, competence, and attitudes to perform the particular task. The young man who seeks to win the admiration of the lass that he is pursuing a relationship with, will always seek to show the most desirable aspects of his personality. In so many ways, efforts are made to give the impression that we are as close to perfection as we can get. These are normal behaviours. However, we are all human. We all have our flaws and shortcomings. Sometimes it makes good sense to let others know that we make mistakes — we are not perfect. While such admissions may expose us to some degree of vulnerability, chances are that our credibility will increase in the eyes of others who realise that we are secure enough about ourselves that we can afford to expose our humanness. As we become more competent, confident, and selfassured, we realise that there is no need to hide who we really are or to pretend to be who we are not. This writer is not advocating that we “wear our faults on our sleeves” and announce to the entire world that we have made mistakes. However, there is good sense in avoiding the temptation to seek to pretend that we are perfect. Admitting who we really are, with strengths and weaknesses, will always put us in a good position to improve. As good as we are, we can all do better. Engaging in honest, objective introspection is a good first step in making the necessary incremental steps to enhanced performance in our professional and personal lives. Such an approach encourages onlookers to view us as sincere … and human. Some workplaces are plagued with and by individuals who seek to hide in plain sight. Insecurities and the fear
of failure may prompt some employees to hide their mistakes and/or shortcomings. This may be especially so when the organisational culture is such that that there is “blame throwing” and inter-department rivalry. In such instances, some employees may try to bury their heads in the sand, hoping that their defects will not be detected. However, it is always better to face up to our shortcomings and to seek to correct these. It is often possible to improve skills and attitude when we are big enough to be small enough to seek help from others. Colleagues are more likely to engage in coaching and mentoring programmes when they perceive that we are humble enough to seek help. Conversely, pride and arrogance could retard our securing assistance of this kind. Church assemblies can also be locations where individuals seek to hide in plain sight. It very often happens that fellow believers are observing the shortcomings and defects of their Christian brothers and sisters. Unfortunately, many followers engage in the unhealthy practice of “speaking about the absent”. Having observed areas that need to be developed or corrected, there could be a tendency to “speak behind the individual’s back” rather than demonstrating a care and love that engages in building the individual up. Even in the church assemblies we need to be alert to the temptations to embrace and/or encourage the “crab in the barrel” syndrome; pulling others down and incorrectly assuming that this pushes us up. Our approach should always be to love enough, to care enough, to intercept with intent as we seek to build people. Those who appear to be hiding in plain sight, can be encouraged to improve performances and behaviours when they know that their associates are genuinely concerned about their overall growth and development. This article purports that, in so many instances, we all appear to be hiding in plain sight. However, we are reminded that observers in our homes, churches, workplaces, and neighbourhoods often are aware of our true position; they regularly see us for who we really are. In addition, we are encouraged by the fact that if and when we demonstrate our humanness and humility, we open ourselves to receiving the help that is required to improve our overall performance. Such openness also endears us to those who may seek our guidance as they seek to have us engaged as their coaches and mentors. There can be tremendous benefits for ourselves and those around us when we avoid the temptation to hide in plain sight. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
THE ELECTIONS SEASON is in full swing. Both parties are actively vying for the attention of voters. The governing Unity Labour Party is in search of a 4th term, while the NDP looks to break its cycle of defeats and gain its first real chance at governance in the 21st century. For both parties, the future is now. Elections are not only about selecting a party to govern. Periodic elections are tests of our democracy. They showcase our growth and development. They offer proof as to how far we have come as a nation. Elections then should offer the voters a good opportunity to gauge themselves and to pronounce on the stewardship of those contesting. There is a mistaken belief that elections are a referendum on the governing party. This is only partially. Truth is, the 2010 elections turned out to be a referendum on the opposition. In that contest, the opposition was riding a wave. In 2009, it led an anti-referendum campaign on constitutional reform. Yet it was unable to transform that referendum success into victory in 2010. Its leadership proved too weak and ineffective. Its organization and message not sufficiently captivating to convince a popular majority that it had the vision, candidates, programs and policies needed to steer our nation in this complicated world. The opposition appears well on its way to making the very same mistake again in 2015. Firstly, it relies on raw numbers, and disregards other vital dynamics. It says that last time it won 7 seats, the ULP popular support is in decline, and there is nothing it can do to arrest that trend. The opposition also says economically things in the country are the worst ever. This it claims is reflected in low economic growth, high unemployment, especially among the youth, and a failure of government to address many of the problems currently facing the country. Devoid from the opposition’s analysis is the fact that the economic crisis which began in 2008, had a far more deadly stranglehold on this nation and its people in 2010 than at present. Proof of some economic relief can be seen across the country. Construction remains a virtual saviour, as developers slowly but surely begin to spend again. The relief internationally can also be seen in the pick-up of remittances to loved ones from their relatives and friends in the USA, Canada, Europe, Trinidad, Barbados and the Virgin Islands, as well as our sons and daughters who sail on tourist liners. Absent from opposition score card as well is the role which the referendum defeat had on the chances of the ULP in the last elections. The fact that the ULP was able to climb out of a 10 percentage points popular vote to regain a majority and 8 seats in the parliament, is tribute to the people’s estimate of Gonsalves’ leadership ability, the party’s organization and mobilization prowess and its message. Therefore, if these elections are played out on the theme of 2010, and they appear to be heading in that direction, the ULP has more than a fighting chance of retaking the government. Indeed, its chance is far better than it was in 2010 for the following reasons, some of which were alluded to above. A central task for the ULP is to
beat back the doom and gloom message of the opposition that things have never been worst in our land. On its face that is not true. On every major index of life, educational opportunities for our young people reflected in scholarships and financial aid; benefits for the elderly, visible through the Home Health Care for the Elderly and the Lives to Live programme as well as the 4 fold increase in old age and disability benefits from $50 to over $200; the radical increase in the life chances of the poor as is demonstrated in the reduction, from 25 percent to 2.9, who are dirt poor and unable to adequately feed themselves, are examples that tellingly demonstrate this big lie. Sadly though, too many of our people believe and repeat this untruth. People cannot be allowed to make decisions on false information. Economically, the conditions in the country are difficult for many. A large slice of our youthful population finds it difficult to obtain work. This has always been the case, and will continue to be so for some time. The governing party must find a way to explain this reality to voters. At the same time, youth are much more educated now, and the strides they made in education placed them in a much better position when they approach foreign embassies. Easier access to Visas allows them migrate to ‘greener pastures’ to make a future for themselves and relatives. A narrative that help is on its way can be compellingly made by the ULP which staked its bet on the construction of the international airport. In the main, people support the airport, and there is no way they will turn their backs on it, now that it nears completion. The opening of the airport, coupled with the prospects for geothermal energy offer real prospects for economic growth. Geothermal energy means the cost of doing business here is about to reduce, thus making our country more attractive. This development means there is going to be a fall in the rates of consumer electricity bill, but more importantly, the potential for economic boom and job creation rises enormously. The tourism sector can expect a boost with rising arrivals, as SVG becomes more attractive as a tourist destination. This holds the possibility for expansion, and should create even more jobs. My hope is that the parties stay on message, avoid taking the campaign into the gutters, refrain from the big lie, and attempt to convince voters with facts, reason and logic. Both parties must take a strong position on violence and mischief as the elections get nearer. A wholesome discussion on leadership, policies and programmes for development, vision for the future, candidates on offer, and the current state of the country, offers a good basis on which people can choose. We cannot afford to disappoint ourselves. The future is definitely now. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
V Argyle airport is a museum piece 12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
airport is of no use to these people. A Green government will cut the price of electricity and water by 50%, and more importantly, create THE MAIN THEME of Gonsalves’ About $850 million dollars has been no use to these people. Our people thousands of new and meaningful jobs independence message, on 27 October wasted on Argyle airport. Never before need jobs, skills training and in our country. Households need an 2015, was that he will open the Argyle in SVG, have we seen such a gross education. airport in 2016. We have been lied to abuse of power: hundreds of acres of In order to create the thousands of income in order to adequately feed their children. before, being told Argyle airport would prime agricultural land have been jobs our people need, and provide the The objectives of a Green open in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. destroyed; a community church has skills training and education our According to the International Civil been destroyed; hundreds of families people want, a Green Government will government are to create a strong economy by creating new, sustainable Aviation Organisation, five years of have been uprooted, and communities cut ties with Taiwan, take back our wind studies are needed to calculate have been destroyed; the economic life fish licence from Taiwan, and create a sources of revenue, and to create an airport’s 95% usability factor, i.e. to of hundreds of people at Argyle has billion dollar tuna fishing and canning thousands of new jobs and provide high-quality education for every child calculate whether the climatic been destroyed. industry. This will create billions of in SVG. We will improve the quality of conditions allow it to be used for more A mother of three children told the dollars in revenue and thousands of life and standard of living for the than 95% of the time. Leader of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan new jobs. The International Airport O’Neal, in Central Leeward on We will also provide skills training people of SVG. Our country cannot afford to waste Development Company has failed to Tuesday 27th of October 2015, that ‘an and build a science and technology carry out 5 years of wind studies. SVG Green Party Government must university, so that all children in SVG millions of dollars more on Argyle airport — it is simply a museum piece. According to data provided, only about focus on creating useful and have the opportunity to get a high We must change the direction of the 9 months of wind studies have been meaningful employment for the young level of education. Education will be economics of our country, to ensure done. Argyle Airport cannot receive a people. Far too many young people are free from pre-school to university. licence to operate international flights leaving school and college, and cannot There are thousands of households long-term financial and economic without satisfying the 95% usability get employment’. in SVG that have no mains electricity stability, and create positive development of our country. factor criteria. It may be another 5 This is true! Many thousands of and water, and struggle to feed their On election day, vote Green. Put years until a licence could possibly be people in SVG are unemployed and children adequately. They do not wake your X next to the telephone. attained. under-skilled. They do not wake up in up in the morning thinking about Argyle airport is a financial the morning thinking about booking a booking a flight for a holiday, they disaster. It is nothing more than a flight for a holiday, they think about think about finding water and finding SVG Green Party museum piece. getting a job. The Argyle airport is of food to feed their children. The Argyle www.svggreenparty.org
Symposium on Engendering Reparations set DURING the 34th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government in Trinidad and Tobago on July 15, 2013, CARICOM received a proposal from
scheduled for Saturday 21st November, from 9.00 a.m.- 2.00 p.m. at the Prime Minister of St. Reparations for Native the UWI Open Campus, Vincent and the Genocide and African Kingstown, is intended Grenadines, Dr. the Hon. Enslavement. The to explore the Ralph Gonsalves, to Heads expressed involvement of women, engage the United unanimous support for in the context of the Kingdom, France and the initiative, and agreed discussions on Holland on the issue of that the approach to be Reparations currently adopted at all levels taking place in St. should be more of the Vincent & The nature of ‘development Grenadines. conversations’ rather The Symposium is than being being held under the confrontational. The theme, ‘Engendering Heads of Government of Reparations — First Barbados (Chair), St. Peoples Women, and Vincent and the African Descendant Grenadines, Haiti, Women — What is their Guyana, Suriname and Stake?’ The Feature Trinidad and Tobago Speaker is Ms. Keturah agreed to provide Cecilia Babb, a Rastafari political oversight. of Callinago and African Since then, CARICOM descent from Dominica, countries, including St. and a Lecturer at UWI Vincent and the Open Campus, Cave Grenadines, have Hill, Barbados. participated in national The Symposium is and regional meetings to organised by the build awareness on the Committee for the issue of Reparations for Development of Women Native Genocide and (CDW), with sponsorship African Enslavement. from the Commonwealth One Speaker emphasised Women’s Network, and the atrocities suffered by is open to women’s women, and called for organisations, youth the situation of Native groups, school children, (Carib/Amerindian/Kallin trade unions, Rastafari ago/Garifuna) Women to and other faith-based be included in building organisations, farmers, the case for Reparations. fisherfolk, members of the Reparations The Symposium Committee, and other interested persons. The Symposium, (Contributed)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 13.
Politics
Gonsalves refutes LewisÊs credit Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA
FIRST TIME political candidate and current Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) Camillo Gonsalves says that he is puzzled as to why his political opponent, Dr Linton
Footbridge completed as part of government’s ongoing roads and bridges repair programme.
programme in the area would continue. He noted that road repair was not the responsibility of private citizens, but that of the government – in the case of public (government) roads. Left: Camillo Gonsalves, ULP candidate for the East St. According to George constituency, has called out his opponent, Dr. Gonsalves, Linton Lewis, for claiming credit for work done by the government had government. Right: Dr. Linton Lewis, NDP candidate for also fixed a East St. George, claims responsibility for a piece of footbridge and a road work done in Diamond. large section of the Fairhall road. The ULP candidate for the constituency of East St George said that regarding the bridge, it was he who had organised with a private sector company to do the work. TOO OFTEN THE SURVIVAL “But yet he (Lewis) is of a sick person in St Vincent taking the credit,” and the Grenadines is Gonsalves said. dependent on the sale of a “So I am not sure why barbecue ticket. Dr Lewis is intent on This was the view expressed taking credit for work by the New Democratic Party’s that he hasn’t done. … I candidate for Marriaqua in the assume that is all part of upcoming General Elections, Curtis Bowman. the political season,” he Bowman told party continued. supporters at the Calliaqua Curtis Bowman, Playing Field last Saturday, NDP candidate for it appeared as if it was only the rich, or those individuals Marriaqua, that were well off, who were lamented the basic common sense will Saturday and during his able to afford treatment for situation of recognise that it will be presentation, Eustace many illnesses. persons being futile for us to do said that the hospital “Too often, when someone unable to afford something like that,” was estimated to cost gets sick, including cancer vital overseas Eustace said. EC$75 million to build, and kidney disease, only medIcal attention. “It is so stupid and and that the party would those who can afford to go silly and far from funny,” source funding from the overseas and get the the leader of the likes of the European treatment will most likely survive,” Bowman said. opposition went on. Union (EU) and the Pan However, if a poor man was to get sick and unable to travel overseas for treatment, then “the Eustace said that American Health survival of that person is unknown,” Bowman what was presented to Organisation (PAHO). said. the people was the He explained that He then posed the question: “How many of you product of 6 months of PAHO was looking to in the crowd have bought barbecue tickets to work done by Stewart develop a programme support someone financially who needs medical Engineering. that finances projects of help?” “And I am proud of excellence in health, Bowman, a pharmacist by profession and who is him and the party for beginning in 2016. in his second run to become the Parliamentary sticking with the plan; “They looking to Representative for Marriaqua, admitted that he the layout is there for develop excellent has encountered many people with the same issue anyone who wants to programmes in health, –“they will all say to me, Bowman, I cannot come and see them,” and we talking about afford my treatment.” Eustace said. people taking pictures He said that one such individual was diagnosed He recommended to and all that nonsense. with prostate cancer and was prescribed various those who make adverse “Anyone of you who medication, but they were not available at the comments that they wants to see the layout Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH), forcing exercise some reserve. can come and see it, and the person to purchase them outside, Bowman “This is not politics, those speaking on radio said. this is a party that is can come and see the He followed up with another example, this time determined to ensure layouts because we can of a kidney disease patient who, Bowman said, was forced to sell his animals in order to that health care In St present to you the accumulate money to get treatment overseas. Vincent and the layouts that have been in According to the NDP candidate, the man Grenadines goes to a the works for the past 6 informed him that he requires additional level far above what the months. That was not treatment in Trinidad next year, but does not Unity Labour Party copied from anywhere, have the financial resources to do so. (ULP) have done,” that was the skill of The NDP unveiled its intended health plan last Eustace said on Monday. Stewart Engineering,” weekend at Calliaqua. The plan includes the The NDP presented its Eustace said. construction of a state of the art hospital in the health plan last East St. George constituency. (See centrespread).
Lewis of the New Democratic Party (NDP), wants to take credit for the road work done by government, in the constituency of East St George. Lewis, at a NDP political rally at Calliaqua last Saturday, accused Gonsalves of calling in the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), otherwise referred to as ‘Black Squad’, on two occasions to stop work on a piece of road in Diamond for which he (Lewis) said he was responsible. He went on to tell supporters that when Gonsalves was confronted, he shifted blame on Minister of State and former Minister of Transport and Works Senator Julian Francis, as the one who sent the police to stop the work. “Well, whether it was Julian Francis or whether it was Camillo Gonsalves, the people of Diamond will make you pay a political price for that, because if it was not for Linton Lewis and the New Democratic Party, that road would have never been fixed in Diamond,” he said. But Gonsalves told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday that while he did not hear first-hand the comments that Lewis made last Saturday, and as a result did not want to comment on them, he acknowledged that government had recently repaired a section of road in the Diamond area, and indicated that the roadwork
Persons invited to view Hospital layout
Arnhim Eustace, leader of the NDP, addressing a party rally at Calliaqua last Saturday, at which plans for building a hospital in East St. George were presented.
PERSONS WISHING to view the layout of the state of the art hospital proposed for construction by the New Democratic Party (NDP) Hospital can do so. Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace, said on his radio programme on Monday that he will be speaking to the relevant persons to allow for anyone who wants to see the design layout for the facility, which was done by Glenford Stewart, to do so. This announcement comes after a comical drawing surfaced on the Social Media site Facebook, where two drawings were presented, one with the plan that was presented to the public for the first time last Saturday during a New Democratic Party (NDP) rally, and the other showing a drawing of a similar structure on the popular Facebook game, Farmville. “I mean, people who have some of the most
Too many barbecue tickets, Bowman declares
V Q.C. : ÂNothing to warrant CoPÊs resignationÊ 14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
News
in the letter, that the top cop ‘frequently and PARNEL CAMPBELL Q.C blatantly plays a Attorney General and partisan and political Minister of Justice in the role’, and that ‘He former New Democratic (Charles) has resorted to Party administration, says wearing ULP colours at the positives far outweigh party and other public the negatives with respect events’. to Commissioners of But Campbell told Police Michael Charles’ THE VINCENTIAN, performance as this “The Commissioner made country’s top cop. an error in judgement, The Queen’s Counsel and upon reflection, he was speaking to THE himself would VINCENTIAN on acknowledge that he Tuesday on the issue of made an error in whether or not Charles judgement; but I am not should resign as of the view that his Commissioner for action warrants a wearing red to public resignation or dismissal. events. If he was found guilty of Opposition Leader and an act of corruption or President of the New dishonesty, that’s a Democratic Party (NDP) different story.” Arnhim Eustace has Campbell added, written to the Office of “When you weigh the the Governor General, positives against the asking for its negatives in terms of his intervention in having (Commissioner) Charles resign, claiming performance, his by HAYDN HUGGINS
personality, his approach to the job, his dedication and patriotism, those qualities far outweigh the negatives.” On an episode of his programme, ‘The Law and You’, aired on SVGTV last Monday night, Campbell explained that even if Commissioner Charles was to resign or be removed, there was nothing under the existing constitution to stop any Prime Minister from appointing a Commissioner of his choice. He noted that under Section 184 (1) of the proposed new constitution, which Vincentians rejected in a referendum November 25, 2009, the Prime Minister would not have had the power to handpick somebody as Commissioner, though he would have had veto
powers. Section 184 (1) of the proposed New Constitution stated, ‘The power to appoint a person to hold or act in the office of Commissioner of Police or Deputy Commissioner of Police (including the power to make appointments on promotion and transfer and to confirm appointment), and subject to the provisions of sections 207 and 208 of this constitution, the power to remove the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner from office shall vest in the President in accordance with the advice of the Police Service Commission’. It added, ‘Provided
Former Attorney General Parnel Campbell Q.C pointed out that Commissioner of Police Michael Charles as effecting is duties with dedication and patriotism.
that, before the Commission tenders advice to the President with respect to the appointment of any person to hold the office of Commissioner of Police or Deputy Commissioner of Police, the Commission shall consult with the Prime Minister, and if the Prime Minister signifies his objection to the appointment of any person to any of those offices, the Commission shall not advise the President to appoint that person’. Campbell served under the former NDP administration as
Attorney General as well as Minister of Justice and information from May 1987 to September 1995. He also served as Deputy Prime Minister from February 1994 to September 1995. Campbell was also chairman of the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) and the Constitutional Review Steering Committee (CRSC) under the current Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration.
Baptiste: ÂProblem goes deeper than resignationÊ reforming that provision, WHILE MEMBERS of in order to guarantee the opposition New there is an independent Democratic Party (NDP) body involving the are calling for the appointment of resignation of Commissioner and Commissioner of Police Deputy Commissioner. Michael Charles, having The former Assistant been seen wearing Unity Secretary in the Labour Party colours at Executive of the NDP political rallies, the NDP also pointed out that the has not identified the proposed New root of the problem. Constitution which Political Leader of the Vincentians rejected Democratic Republican Anesia Baptiste, during a referendum, Party (DRP) Anesia political leader of the November 25, 2009, did Baptiste made the Democratic Republican not propose any observation on her programme ‘The Moment Party (DRP) committed significant change in the her party to reforming way a Commissioner or of Hope’ , aired on WE that section of the Deputy Commissioner is FM last Tuesday. Constitution that relates appointed; all it did was Baptiste noted that to the appointment of change Governor General basically, Section 85, to President and Police paragraph 1, under part the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Service Commission to 3 of the Constitution of of Police. Police and Prison Service St. Vincent and the Commission. Grenadines 2009, rests “I do not think the Commissioner’s the ultimate power of who should be actions, though irresponsible and appointed Commissioner of Police, in wrong, warrants a resignation. I think the hands of the Prime Minister. “This is the root cause of the kind of that the problem is deeper than that partisan political displays or behavior and goes to the constitutional that we may see by the Commissioner provision for the appointment of Commissioner and Deputy and other police officers”, she Commissioner,” Baptiste said. explained. But she called for that type of “I don’t believe that the NDP is behavior to be corrected to ensure that serious because they have not it is not repeated, and for police identified the root of the problem nor officers, including members of the have they made any proposals or Prime Minister’s security detail, to given any commitment to reforming desist from wearing red to political that particular section,” the former meetings. NDP senator said. Baptiste assured the DRP would be “Any government can handpick a contesting the upcoming general Commissioner, basically, under the elections and would announce their existing constitution,” she asserted, candidates in due time. adding that the DRP is committed to
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 15.
News
National colours on show at Heritage village
by GLORIAH… A COMPETITION to showcase the creativity in the use of our national colours in male and female fashion, took place at the Xtreme Heritage Village, situated in the car park of the SVG Cooperative Bank at Heritage Square. The inaugural activity took place right after the National Independence Parade on Independence Day, Tuesday 27th October, 2015, and was organized by the SVG National Heritage Organization.
Female children winner, Mariah Matthews.
Competition Speaking on behalf of the National Heritage Organization, Akisha Henry gave the rationale for the competition as: “On Independence Day, a lot of persons Winners in the female category (from come out to the National Parade left): Davana Providence (1st), Zoisha Male category winners, Ist Asha and they put a lot into their Henry and Victoria Durham. Blucher-Sandy (right) and 2nd Sydney outfits, from the smallest child Morgan. right up to the oldest adult. We felt Winners that, because after the parade there is male. The results were as follows: not much to do in the outfits, why not A total of twenty-two persons Adult female categories — Ist have something in the town where registered to compete in the ‘Best Davana Providence ($150.00), 2nd persons can participate in an event Dressed in National Colours’ contest: Victoria Durham and 3rd Zoisha such as this.” seven adult females; two adult males; Henry; ten children female; and three children Adult males —. Ist Asha Blucher-
Sandy ($150), 2nd Sydney Morgan placed 2nd; Female children — 1st Mariah Matthews ($100), 2nd Yasmiah Bacchus and 3rd Jada Jacobs . Male children — 1st Kimani King ($100), 2nd Jaheem Weekes and 3rd Raheem Weekes. Speaking on behalf of the judges, Kezron Walters applauded the competitors for their desire to participate. He said that they were impressed with the contestants’ use of colour, their creativity and detail, and the garment fit and wearers’ general deportment. He expressed the hope that the competition will not be the final one. Committee representative Akisha Henry said she was quite pleased by the numbers that registered. She informed THE VINCENTIAN that the organizing committee plans to incorporate this competition as well as National Cultural Wear Competition in future Heritage activities.
Botanical Gardens gets LIME’s attention
The ‘Hibiscus Alley Crew’ getting the beds ready for planting.
“I AM REALLY impressed to see these office folks on their hands and knees, in the dirt and hot sun working so hard. I really didn’t expect this!” That was the comment coming from Ms. Pamela Pompey, the Technical Supervisor of the Botanical Garden, as she inspected the work done by the LIME team. A day of real work at the world famous, oldest in the Western Hemisphere Botanical Gardens, was just one of the community service activities completed as LIME celebrated their Mission Day, Thursday, October 29th. Ms. Pompey said she was thrilled when LIME offered their assistance. “I was pleasantly surprised when Ms.
Lime Country Manager Wayne Hull shaking hands with Technical Supervisor of the Botanical Gardens Pamela Pompey, as the ‘Lawn Crew’ looks on. Campbell called, because we really need the help. As the tourist season is right around the corner, we really wanted to revive the famous Hibiscus Alley, and give the entrance bridge a facelift.” Ms. Pompey admitted that there was still much work to be done, but her
Left: Members of the ‘Paint Crew’, Nikala Williams (top) and Sophia Williams, hard at work.
team was sometimes not physically able to do it all. Working without appropriate and adequate tools posed an additional challenge. LIME donated over $2500 in tools that day, and LIME staff members went to work cultivating the ground for the planting of the hibiscus, raking the lawn and scraping then painting the entrance bridge. LIME Country
Manager Wayne Hull was part of the hardworking team assigned to the Hibiscus Alley. Mr. Hull commented “We are happy to be able to assist the Gardens, and we look forward to doing many more projects of this nature as part of our corporate responsibility to this country.” The entire management and staff of LIME echoed these sentiments.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 19.
News
Just a very small section of the hundreds who supported the Concert.
Benefit Concert a success, says organisers ORGANISERS of the Dominica Benefit Concert’ have confirmed that over EC$100,000 was raised, and that this money will be made available to the government of that country later this month. Bernadette Ambrose-Black, Director of Invest SVG and member of the organising committee for the event, told THE VINCENTIAN that the show is being regarded as a success. Bernadette “One hundred percent of the proceeds will go towards Ambrose-Black, Dominica to assist in their relief effort,” Ambrose-Black member of the explained. organising “The show exceeded our expectations, and we are very committee for grateful to the 17 artistes who donated their talent for this the event, worthy cause,” she continued. A number of local and regional big names in Soca, Reggae confirmed that and Dancehall music took to the stage in Victoria Park last the Concert Sunday night, to lend their support to the task of generating raised in funds to assist Dominica, which was severely affected by the excess of $100,000. passage of Tropical Storm Erika, in August of this year. The system dumped more than 12 inches of rain which resulted in damage to property and the country’s infrastructure. More than 20 persons lost their lives. Included in the Concert’s line-up were Rondy ‘Luta’ McIntosh, Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper, James ‘Jamesy P’ Morgan, Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus – for the local cast. The foreign cast included the likes of Lindon Andrew Roberts, better known as ‘Half Pint’, the Jamaican quartet T.O.K, Clifford ‘Mr Vegas’ Smith, Oje Ken Ollivierre (Protoje) and Sizzla Kalonji (Miguel Collins). Earlier this week, Minister of Foreign Affairs Oje Ken ‘Protoje’ Ollivierre, Jamaican Camillo Gonsalves had of SVG roots, indicated that it was too soon to give an indication of impressed with his conscious lyrics. how much was raised, but he too said that he was pleased with the turnout. Also, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who made a brief appearance last Sunday night, said that he too was happy to see the large turnout at Victoria Park. He said that the Dominican Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerritt was unable to make it to witness Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus the event because he had opted to fly to New York to headlined the local acts be with his wife, who had given birth to the couple’s who gave freely of their second child. (DDD) talent.
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20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Rock Gutter Fallout
Justice has been served
Stories by KENVILLE HORNE
David Nanton and daughter Ruth-Ann Bowens say justice was done.
Survivor and father feel relieved DAVID NANTON, the father of Ruth-Ann Bowens, one of those who survived the fatal Rock Gutter accident of January 12, 2015, said he is happy for the parents of those who died in that incident, and that justice has prevailed. Nanton spoke with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, following the verdict of the jury in the Coroner’s Inquest into the fatal accident. Ruth-Ann is now a student at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. Her father said that when the accident took place, he received news that his daughter had died. “And still me na get over yet,” said Nanton He told THE VINCENTIAN that he had already given up hope of finding his
daughter alive. “All when me reach a Owia me still na see um, and me never see um until couple days after when me reach a hospital go see um,” said Nanton. “When me go a hospital and me see um, me feel good ,” he admitted. Ruth-Ann, who also spoke with THE VINCENTIAN, said she felt a sense of relief by the decision. “Thank God for justice, “she proclaimed. She said the accident had left her traumatized and for some time after she was haunted by nightmares. She said all the persons who lost their lives in the accident were her friends. Bowens expressed thanks to Shemroy Yorke, one of the students who also survived the accident, for saving her life.
METHELINE ALEXANDER lost her 11-year-old daughter, Anique Alexander, in the accident at Rock Gutter. But after last Tuesday’s verdict of the Coroner’s Inquest, she is feeling “very, very happy.” “Since my daughter died, my pressure not going down, it keep up, and today it give me a little relief. That means I am on my way to justice,” said the mother. Metheline confessed that Anique was the favorite of three daughters. “Today this little justice makes me feel very happy. Before I was not. Every night and day I cry, because I miss my daughter so much. That was my best child. I have three girls and she was the last one,” she said. Felicia Alexander, Anique’s aunt, said she also felt a sense of relief. She Metheline Alexander considered the decision to be one good step Rosie Edwards says the on the road to recovery. “I know the families verdict has put her heart at admitted to missing her 11year-old daughter, one of are quite pleased, and we are breathing a ease. the accident fatalities. sigh of relief for what we went through,” Jamalie and Jamal said Felicia. “I am please with the verdict, I think justice has Edwards who lost their lives in the accident, said been served,” said Andrea Stay, aunt of Chanstacia her heart is at ease. “I use to think about me grandson and them until me head hurt me. Stay, whose body is yet to be found. ….Today me feel so good, and me heart is at ease,” Meanwhile, Rosie Edwards, grandmother of said Edwards.
Rochelle Ashton’s heart at ease THE DECISION to hold three men culpable for the death of 5 students in the Rock Gutter accident, January 12, 2015, has been welcomed by many family members of the deceased students. Rochelle Ashton, mother of Raquel Ashton, one of the fatalities who was 17 years old at the time, broke into tears at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, as Magistrate Rickie Burnette, who presided over the Coroner’s Inquest, announced the jury’s decision. Asked why she wept,
Ashton replied, Right: Rochelle “Because my heart dey Ashton admitted that at ease.” she would have been She said she missed disappointed had the her daughter very jury not found somebody responsible much. “Me still miss for the death of her she, and me still a grieve, no matter she daughter and others. gone, and she can’t She said Raquel’s come back,” said Ashton. father told her to go Recounting the and see if anything dreadful day and the moment she received the had happened to them. news, the mother said Ashton recalled her neighbour called out and told her the red van that when she arrived in the area in which her daughter of the accident, she was travelling, had got a call from a nurse overturned. Her niece was also travelling in the informing her that her daughter didn’t make it. van.
“Only God one dey on we side..,” says the Pastor MINUTES before a fivemember jury found him, Ranavan Nanton, and Calvert Bowens culpable of Manslaughter by Gross Negligence, Ehud Myers told THE VINCENTIAN that he was scared. Myers is the pastor of the Fancy Apostolic Church, owners of the bus that overturned in the sea at Rock Gutter, January 12, 2015, claiming the lives of five(5) students. Two are still missing.
The pastor was also the conductor on the minibus when the incident occurred. It is said that Myers had direct control over the van. Sitting outside the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, Myers said he has been transporting school children from since the 1980s. The Rock Gutter was the first tragedy during the years of offering that service. He said that some of the students he
transported are now Policemen and Nurses. “Some are teachers,” he said in a sad tone of voice. Myers intimated that since the accident, he has encountered numerous problems, including threats against his life. “Only God one dey on we side, everybody against us,” said the Pastor. He further disclosed that Ranavan Nanton, the driver of the minibus on that day, was also
threatened. “The driver is a Christian, who is married and has two children. Still they say they want we get lock up and the key throw away,” he lamented. Pastor Ehud Myers said that there have been threats on his life since the fatal accident.
“Me start to cry and when me see she , me can’t believe, she was my only daughter,” said Ashton as she fought back tears. She said she wanted justice and justice was done, and expressed thanks to the jury. “Well we go sleep good tonight,” she proclaimed. She said if the jury’s decision had gone in the opposite direction, she would have felt disappointed, knowing that the children had lost their lives in such a manner, and no one was held responsible. “It would a come like the parents them would a dey in more grieving and pain,” said Ashton.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Generosity will put you in the poorhouse. You can convince anyone of anything. You can put in some overtime and make extra cash. Some relatives will be extremely perplexing.
both peers and superiors. Put some energy into getting back into shape. Listen to reason. Monitor your budget carefully to avoid unnecessary stress. Inlaws may cause difficulties. Travel should be considered.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Consider making residential changes; either moves or renovations could payoff. Do not sign contracts or get involved in any uncertain financial deals. The great outdoors will allow you to teach youngsters some of the things you learned when growing up. Don't make those you live with feel unloved or unworthy.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can get support from groups that you belong to if you're willing to step out on a limb and voice your opinions. Investments that deal with property will pay off but could cause conflict with some family members. Travel for business will not only bring you valuable information but also profits as well. You will learn a great deal about yourself if you go somewhere secluded.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You may find that purchases or entertainment could be expensive. Cultural activities will prove to be quite enlightening for everyone. You will be overly sensitive when dealing with your personal life. Risky financial ventures will result in unrecoverable losses. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Sign up for tours or courses that will enlighten you. Your suggestions for fund raising events will be well received. Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week. Residential moves will be favorable. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don't overdo it. You can easily wrap up overdue personal legal matters that have caused problems for you. Don't let someone take the credit for a job you did. Make sure you concentrate if operating machinery or vehicles. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Help children complete projects they're having difficulty with. Frustrations and limitations could cause anxiety this week. Children's needs could be more costly than you anticipated. Alienation may be the result of a misunderstanding. LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Get involved in jobs that require creative input. You can win points with
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) If you've taken on a lot of work, be sure to leave some time for yourself and family. Take the whole family and make it an enjoyable outing. Avoid any petty ego confrontations; they could lead to estrangement if you aren't careful. You should be traveling to that exotic destination you've been dreaming about. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You can ferret out secret information if you just listen to what others have to say. Family members may want you at home, when your heart is telling you to spend time with someone you recently met. Remember; talk to them, not at them. Make plans to do the things you enjoy. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Think before you act. Emotionally you won't see things accurately. Find out all you can; secret enemies may lead you astray. You will have excellent ideas for changing or renovating your home. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Use discrimination and play hard to get. Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. Take care of the needs or responsibilities of elders. Your stability will aid you in getting support from your fellow workers.
ACROSS
41. Courtroom excuse 1.Nasty cut 43. Flats (abbr.) 5. Amorous 46. Broadcast glance watchdog 9. Trash agency receptacle (abbr.) 12. Mitch 48. Cooking Miller’s amounts instrument (abbr.) 13. Quarterback 50. Consumes Aikman 52. Reaction to 14. Gardner of an IM “Earthquake” Joke 15. Actress 53. Leak slowly Moore 54. Zone 16. Become 55. Shoshonean fatigued Indian 17. Yank’s foe 56. Commen19. Kennedy and tator Knight Rooney 20. Concluded 57. Cheerful 22. “__ a Parade “ (2 wds.) DOWN 24. Tremor, slangily 1. Jupiter, e.g. 27. Fore and __ 2. Help 30. Mamie’s 3. Unspecified hubby number 31. Cooped up 4. Shirley 32. Takes a nap Temple role 34. Kiefer 5. Baseball’s Sutherland’s Mel dad 6. Feel 35. Indirect heartache suggestions 7. Actor Greene 36. Hoagie 8. Watched 37. Thumbssharply down vote 9. Sweater style 38. Sundance’s 10. Roadway woman (abbr.) 39. Water jugs 11. Catch a
criminal 19. Ship docking spaces 21. Writer Hunter 23. Finds acceptable 25. Scary Lugosi 26. Nelson __ 27. Tennis star Arthur 28. Move like a butterfly 29. Feeler 31. Mongoose’s prey 33. List ender (2 wds.) 34. Payable 36. Filched 39. Entertainer
Buddy 40. Asparagus unit 42. “__ girl!” (2 wds.) 44. Starchy, edible root 45. Holy Fr.
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 21.
women 46. Hong Kong __ 47. Barracks fixture 49. Catch sight of 51. Speak out
V A criminal act 22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
time and keep on making excuses why I am not THE WORD is going around going to school. How can that my teacher at school I fix this? I have heard about HIV all my life, has HIV. My friends are but I never dreamed that the ones saying it, and I would be in a situation although I tried to act where I have it. What unaffected by the wrong, but also criminal. am I going to do? I am possibility of that news As far as the HIV really scared! being true, I am worried question is concerned, it stiff. You see. George, seems that, according to Innocent that teacher and I have you, it could be just a had sex several times. I rumour, since you have Dear Innocent, am due to leave school in not provided concrete two years, and he told me evidence that he indeed It was never a good that, once I stayed with is infected. However, idea to let anything get him, we will be together as you should get tested in the way of your husband and wife, since immediately so you can he would be divorced from education. It was a know your status, and grave mistake to get his wife by that time. from there get the involved with your I am very angry at necessary information as teacher, who should have myself for trusting and to how to proceed. known better than to believing him. Now my Talk to someone whom violate the trust and life is in one big mess. you can trust. I suggest confidence of his What am I going to do you contact a counsellor students. His now? What am I going at The Marion House. actions were not only to tell my parents? I You counsellor should be stay at home most of the morally and ethically
Dear George,
Look before you leap Dear George,
able to guide you as to when your parents should be brought into the equation. At this point in your life, you need as much support as possible from the people in your life, who love and care for you. Let’s hope that the lessons learned from this experience will help you in more ways than one.
George
MY HUSBAND actually told me that when he said his vows to me, he had to have been drunk. I was never so insulted in all my life! Since we got married, 6 weeks ago, he has been sleeping with multiple women. I voiced my displeasure and asked him about his vows to me, and he just laughed at me and advised that I better learn to accept what he is doing or “shut up.” He actually told me that I either joined him and the other women in bed, or leave the house if I can’t deal with it. I have just awakened out of my nightmare, to realize that I do not have a marriage, and I have married a total stranger. When we met, I thought he was my soul mate. We never bothered to get any pre-marital counselling or anything like that. We were both sure we were meant for each other, and the connection we felt then was magical. He is not from St. Vincent, and we met on a LIAT flight 6 weeks ago today and got married quietly, almost immediately after meeting each other. I am now wondering how I could have been so dumb.
Messed up Dear messed up, Hind sight is truly 20/20 vision and, in your case, you made a decision that you were convinced was the correct one at the time. There is no harm in doing background checks and making double checks when embarking on what is most likely the biggest decision of your life. Don’t be too hard on yourself for following your heart and not your head. The most you can do now is to try to get it right the next time around. You are a lot wiser now than you were 6 weeks ago.
George
You did the correct thing me to pay the bill. I talked to him about this, and he dismissed my concerns as nit picking. I AM DATING this guy. He is a nice Can you imagine he had the gall to guy, but he is also the cheapest guy I have ever met. I am the one who pays ask me to marry him? Now why for everything, every time. He owns a would I want a husband like him? He right now looks, walks, and quacks car, but it is I who buys the gas. He like a duck, and therefore he has to be even asked me to pay for work done on the car after it he got into a minor a duck. Am I wrong not to marry him accident. When we go out, he looks to on this account? I have since given him marching orders. I am tired of being used and abused.
Dear George,
Relieved Dear Relieved, You have the right to marry whom you may, and if you are not comfortable with your boyfriend and do not see a future with him, then you did the correct thing in letting him know and, in the process, giving yourself another chance to meet the man of your dreams. That little voice inside you was able to whisper loudly enough for you to hear, and fore-warned you that you were on the wrong side of the tracks. Good for you for making the switch!
George
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 23.
FIREWORKS, BOTTLE SERVICE, LOTS OF FOOD, AND ONE OF THE MOST ELABORATE BIRTHDAY CAKES EVER SEEN. These were just some of the sights to behold, as relatives and friends gathered at Diamond Estate on Saturday October 17, to observe the three score and ten years (20+20+20+10) of Olmroy O.T Mayers. Persons turned up from far and wide on the 16th, 17th and 18th, to join with O.T and family, to mark the occasion with his book launch on the first day, followed by his birthday party, then a thanksgiving service on the final day. O.T, who was born and raised in poverty, worked his way up to become one of the leading entrepreneurs in St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the years. Although he had actually celebrated his big day on October 12, the mood was just as vibrant, as O.T, in his usual style, shared what he had with his guests, who were encouraged to help themselves of all that was offered to them; being treated to their own bottles of drinks of their choice from the unbreakable premium bar, supplied by
Coreas Distributors, Gonsalves Liquors, LOG Enterprises and St Vincent Brewery, served by ushers, wherever they were sitting or standing. Diners had the option of a buffet style dinner, provided by LaFleur Richardson, set in an elegantly decorated dining room setting, prepared by Party Land, or for those who preferred the outdoor surroundings, under tents in the yard supplied by Fanfare Events, picnic style. Guests indulged in Creole style meals from conch and callaloo soup by Lisa Mayers, and “goat water” by Philmore, or enjoyed roast pork and Bar-B-Q chicken from Punkie, to a multicourse meal consisting of various dishes. Those present were also entertained by music from Silk, one of this country’s top live bands, as well as DJ’s from the Supreme Sound Entertainment sound system, who entertained well into the next day. For persons who were not in a dancing mood or just wanted to relax, a lounge was constructed for their leisure and pleasure. And of course, it would not be a lime without dominoes, cards and a pool table. One of the highlights of the night was the fireworks display in O.Ts honor, supervised by members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, and guests were treated to a colourful display of pyrotechnic lights. The night’s sky was also illuminated for the
party, by event lights provided by Platinum Sounds, and the event was captured on video and photography by Cap Balcombe and All Access Management Group. And the cake, another highlight of the three day event, portrayed various aspects of O.Ts long and complex life, showing “the little man” in his early years at his wattle and daub home, to him working in the farm lands, to becoming the leading businessman that he is today. The cake, created by Vincy Cake Girl was the main area for posing for photos and “selfies.” Special toasts were given to the man of the moment, by persons who congratulated him on reaching his milestone. Toasters wished him continued good life and health, and prayed that he live to enjoy many more years on earth.
ADVERTORIAL
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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Businessman Glen resident gets suspended charged sentence with murder by HAYDN HUGGINS
Benjamin Jackson – murder accused.
GLEN RESIDENT Benjamin Jackson has been charged in connection with the stabbing death of fellow
villager Christopher Allen Rouse, which occurred at Glen last Sunday. Jackson, 47, who has been charged with murder, was not required
DHYBRID FUEL REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY IN MUSTIQUE
Mustique, a small, private and exclusive resort island in the archipelago of islands that make up St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is proud to be the first island in the Caribbean to have six hundred and forty-five kilowatts of photovoltaic energy systems grid connected using DHYBRID fuel reduction technology. This is in conjunction with another three hundred and seventy-one kilowatts of photovoltaic energy systems strategically located on the island; making a total of one thousand and sixteen kilowatts of photovoltaic energy systems installed. For many years, the production of electricity on the island of Mustique was achieved using Caterpillar diesel generators only. However, the island has been continuously investigating various options of electricity generation that would complement the operation while meeting the other demands of the island’s electricity production, namely reliability and efficiency. Of concern also, was the aesthetic and environmental impact renewable forms of energy would have on the island. In the end, a combination of a one megawatt of photovoltaic system in conjunction with the DHYBRID fuel reduction technology and black frame solar panels uniformly installed on roof tops ensured that all criteria were met. The installation was completed collaboratively by Mr. Justin Providence, Senior Engineer and Manager of the Mustique Company’s Renewable Energy and Utilities Department under the direction of Mr. Stuart Ward, Chief Operations Officer of the Mustique Company Ltd, and with DHYBRID Power System out of Germany and ELTEC Services of St. Vincent. The Mustique Company Ltd. continues to do its part to help conserve the environment without compromising the quality of life the residents of the island have grown accustomed to.
L to R: Tobias Reiner, Stuart Ward, Oliver Roth and Justin Providence
Photovoltaic systems installed at Grand Bay, Mustique Island.
to plea when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday. He was remanded pending a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) slated for January 2016. Rouse, 29, reportedly received a stab wound to the neck during an incident at Glen, shortly after 4 a.m. last Sunday. He collapsed in the area of a Mobile Police Station, located in that community, and was subsequently pronounced dead by a doctor.
BELAIR BUSINESSMAN Dillon Joseph received a suspended sentence this week for possession of a semiautomatic 9mm firearm without licence. Joseph was sentenced to three years in prison, but that sentence was suspended for three years. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias handed down the penalty at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday. Joseph initially pleaded not guilty, but changed his plea to guilty during the trial, which had commenced on Monday. The facts revealed that around 7 p.m. on September 6 this year, police officers, acting on information received, went to Joseph’s liquor shop at Belair. A search warrant was executed, and the gun was found under a cigarette tray inside the shop. No ammunition was found. When cautioned, Joseph told the police, he found the gun on his way to the mountains. (HH)
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 25.
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26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
News
ÂA Brief History of Seven KillingsÊ – A Review THE NEW YORK TIMES describes Marlon James’s monumental new novel ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings, as “raw, dense, violent, scalding, darkly comic, exhilarating and exhausting — a testament to Mr. James’s vaulting ambition and prodigious talent.” This was on September 21, 2014, just over a year before the novel won the prestigious Man Booker Prize for Fiction for Marlon James, a Jamaican. The New York Times said then, that the novel uses the story of the 1976 assassination attempt on Reggae Icon Bob Marley, “as a kind of trampoline, bouncing off that terrible event into a multilayered, choral inquiry into Jamaican politics and poverty, into race and class, and into the volatile relationship between the United States and the Caribbean, spanning several decades.” In fact, this writer, who had the privilege of being gifted a copy of the book before the Booker Prize announcement, is wont to describe it as “controversially truthful”, for it not only does what the Times says it does, but it ventures, in its own style characterised by a bold ‘Jamaicaness’, into the connections between and of the gangs in the Kingston tenement yards, and the efforts by the CIA to destabilise the left-leaning government
of Michael Manley’s People’s National Party (PNP) in the 1970s. As others have said, ‘A Brief History of seven Killings’ is no easy read. Well over seventy characters, different narrators, excessive but effective use of Jamaican dialect and slangs, an abundance of swearing/’cussing’ — characteristic of the ‘realness’ of the people the book highlights — combine to make it not a book for easy bedtime reading. And if that in itself might be a turnoff for some, it is this very ‘abundance of everything’, that makes the book so impacting, so lasting, because it is exact in its ‘excessives’, expressed with a unique blend of verse and prose. And it is James’s language, while it poses a challenge to the reader, which energises his characters, who help to situate the reader in the world that was Jamaica at the time — one that gave birth to the likes of Bob Marley. Out of darkness cometh light… there is always hope. In that milieu of ‘excessives’, including sex, set in a society torn against itself yet able to produce the likes of Bob Marley and others of his ilk, Marlon James traces a connectivity of politicians, businessmen, prostitutes, henchmen, music dreamers, ordinary people, all trying to use one another
in a dog-eat-dog world in which one side tries to wield its influences across the spectra of society, while another side tries to eke out an existence in a Jamaica of the 1970s. Yet, for all that is sacred and profane about the novel ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings’, founded on the attempt on the life of Bob Marley, never once is the name Bob Marley used in the
The attempt to assassinate Robert ‘Bob’ Marley, the legendary Jamaican Reggae exponent, is said to be the springboard for this rolling novel.
680 odd pages locked between its covers. But readers can well guess who ‘The Singer’, one of the multitude of characters, just might be reflecting. Even if ‘A Brief History off Seven Killings’ did not win the Man Booker Prize for
Marlon James, it is a masterful, unparalleled Caribbean literary work, that those who have the time and yearning for controversy will find compelling. (Staff Review)
Marlon James’s ‘A Brief History of Seven Killings’ is expected to see another significant increase in sales, on being named the 2015 Man Booker Prize winner.
Curtis Williams: Unveiling the author Honestly?’ — March 29, 2015; ‘Really? For Real?’ — April 6, 2015; ANOTHER VINCENTIAN author is ‘Important Made Impotent’ — April making his presence felt. And what 13, 2015; ‘Love’ — April 20, 2015; ‘The Motivation Bible’ — April 27, musician, artiste and Christian Ambassador Curtis W. A. Williams 2015; ‘One Leper’s Tribute to Seven Influential Icon’ - May 1, 2015; and has accomplished, could be aptly ‘The Nudge’ - May 4, 2015. described as an eruption. In 2012, Curtis embarked on Author’s inspiration writing of what he calls the PointBlank Heart-Slashes Quintuplet So where has the inspirations Series, the first of which he titled, come from? ‘Start, Embark, Begin, Jump In’. “Honestly, it wasn’t me,” Curtis But before he even embarked on the publication of that series, Curtis was quick to explain. “It’s almost as though I didn’t write that first recalled that, “An entire book was inspired within a single day during book. I had what I call an outburst of divine revelation. What February 2015, with divine happened, if I can explain it from a instruction to publish it human standpoint is this: I have, immediately.” since 2011, been feeding my mind That became his signature on a strict select diet of wisdom, literary production entitled, ‘Point success, and righteousness.” Blank INSPIRATION’, and was He said that such a diet kept published as an eBook to Amazon pouring into his subconscious, to Kindle Online, on February 25th the point where on February 11, this year. there was a mind-eruption that when settled, brought forth ‘Point A collection of books Blank INSPIRATION’. Curtis is no stranger to the Since then, Curtis has been extremely busy. His book count on written word. He has been writing since his early teens, though Amazon now numbers ten. These primarily with songs. These, he include, as per publication dates: sang with groups from the Richland ‘Point Blank Inspiration’ - Feb 24, Park SDA Church. 2015; ‘Sparks” — March 17, 2015; But, he explained, “I had a ‘Start, Embark, Begin, Jump In’ — dream in which I was told to write March 23, 2015; ‘Who? Me?
by GLORIA...
without distraction by music.” He believes that writing is what God himself commands and uses personally, since writing, Curtis Williams he said, has considers his power. “The writing to be information that divinely causes one to inspired and introspect, reflect, responsible for and engage in him becoming soul-searching really progresses a better individual. and revolutionarily transforms one’s life toward peak potential, mastery, and excellence; even to exceptionality.,” he said. And continuing to write, he would. He defines the benefits of authorship as “becoming a vastly better individual holistically”. Curtis’s favourite book is “Point Blank Inspiration”. He is offering it electronically to the first 700 Vincentians who requests it via email: curtiswawilliams@gmail.com, before December 31st, 2015.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 27.
Sports
Olympic gold medalist visits SVG
Right: Sally Gunnell (left) and team member Charlotte Woolf, chat with Director of ITDAT Michael ‘Mercy’ Ollivierre.
THIS COUNTRY was host recently to a former top international athlete. Sally Gunnell, the former Olympic, World, European and British 400 metres champion, was here as a guest at the Buccament Bay Resort, and during her two-week vacation, available herself to the IDAT Club. Now a motivational speaker and coach, the 49-year-old Gunnell addressed the young athletes at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex, urging them to be serious about their sport, and to make every effort to train and to do so properly. “You have got to put in the hard work if you want to be successful…there are no shortcuts in getting to the top….you must show commitment, employ proper work ethics and be able to motivate yourself,” she told the athletes. Gunnell, who was Olympic champion, World Champion, European Champion and British champion during her career, also broke the world record in 1993 at 52.74. Following her talk to the athletes, she and her team, including her sons, took the athletes through a training session. “There is a lot of talent here…..it just needs to be worked on,” she said as she
looked on with appreciation. Gunnell retired from international competitive athletics in 1997. And how has she been able to make the transformation? “Once you retire and you’ve achieved what you’ve achieved, you want to keep within the sport …..it’s been your life it’s been your love, it’s been your passion…and I guess coaching was like a natural sort side,” she said. Gunnell, the UK’s most high profile female Athletes going through training session with Sally Gunnell and team. athlete, said that despite Remaining at the top of her field and she said. achieving much on the track, her high being so dominant she said required Overtime, Gunnell did suffer a was her gold medal at the 1992 plenty of training. number injuries while competing, and Barcelona Olympics. “When I look back now, I wonder how she said it required plenty of self“It was something I had dreamed I did it because I was doing that from 15, motivation to deal with that. about since I was 14, and it was 16 …and you knew you had to put the “Some of the best athletes are those something that was in my mind for hard work in….and I was training six who struggled through injuries for years years, and that is what gave me that and were so determined to come back drive and that focus to be the best that I days a week and twice a day as well…but you knew that what was ….for me it’s about never losing focus of can be and to go to the Olympics,” she required if you wanted to be the best”, what you want to achieve”. continued.
Ballantyne takes Sion Hill Sprint race week before, clocked 14 minutes 42.88 seconds to take the Male Under 19 and fourth overall. Ryan John took second place in 15 minutes 11.66 seconds, and Slyford Lampkin third in a time of 15 minutes 41.66 seconds. Slater, John and Lampkin are all members of ITDAT. St Martin’s Secondary’s Newman Peters Pamenos Ballantyne (right), Meshach Dublin (center) and Junior Ashton bossed the male (left). Under-15 with a winning time of 16 minutes 17.59 PAMENOS BALLANTYNE of category. He finished in a seconds, with High Chatoyer Club put the time of 14 minutes 34.98 Performance’s Joshua Ackie disappointment of defeat in seconds, ahead of second last week’s Central Leeward placed Meshach Dublin of IT- 18 minutes 51.98 seconds — second, and Kosnell SkerrittRoad race behind him, and ran DAT in 14 minutes 37.16 20 minutes 12.06 seconds — to victory in Sunday seconds, and third placed third. afternoon’s LOG Enterprise Junior Ashton of Chatoyer Joonyah Garrick of It’s a Sion Hill Sprint. Club doing 14 minutes 42.66 Fitness Thing placed first in The ace distance runner seconds. the male Over-40 in 21 took top honours when he Akani Slater, who had minutes 09.88 seconds, with retained his championship pipped Ballantyne in the Leonard Ballantyne, running title in the Male Over 19 Central Leeward race the
as an unattached competitor, second in a time of 21 minutes 37.20 seconds. More domination was in store for the IT- DAT club, as Linda Mc Dowall, Sorenya Miller and Tara Joseph finished in that order among the Over 19 females. Mc Dowall’s winning time was 16 minutes 23.03 seconds. IT- DAT’s Britney Butler was the lone finisher in the female Under-19. Her time was 26 minutes 52.80 seconds. Taking the Under-15 females contest was Zita Vincent of High Performance in 20 minutes 17.53 seconds. Second was Shanell Lampkin-
Newman Peters – Under 15 male winner.
IT- DAT in 26 minutes 12.28 seconds and Akasha Bess of the Intermediate High School third, in 26 minutes 23.88 seconds Samantha Lynch, who represented Sa Sa Club, took the females Over-40 in 24 minutes 12.45 seconds. All thirty-five starters completed the race which started at the Sion Hill Intersection, went through Cane Garden, turning right onto Sharpe Street, then left onto Granby Street, and right again onto Murray’s Road, and back to the Sion Hill Intersection.
Zita Vincent Under 15 female winner.
Samantha Lynch – Over 40 female winner.
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28. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Assistant coach Wade ‘Elbir’ Jackson leading the goalkeepers through a workout.
Coaching Consultant Ezra Hendrickson (foreground) demonstrating a pass during a training session.
Vincy Heat not overawed by USA
by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT
Cup Qualifiers on Friday November 13th in St. Louis. ST. VINCENT AND THE Though hindered by GRENADINES senior some injuries to top footballers, ‘Vincy Heat’, players, the team is are expected to leave here happy with the level of on the weekend to take on preparations they have CONCACAF powerhouse been able to achieve, USA, in the next phase of coaching consultant Ezra the Russia 2018 World
Hendrickson said. Hendrickson said that they have been working on some (important) areas. He is satisfied with the initial results, and hopes that this could translate in the match situation. Hendrickson was
invited by the SVGFF to be part of the coaching staff, following an unfortunate incident that made Assistant Coach Wesley Charles incapacitated, and following what many say was a below par performance against
Butler, Samuel hit half centuries with 3 for 15. And Park Hill was again on the losing end of the stick, when they went under on Sunday to St.Vincent Co-operative Bank P’tani Masters. Samuel hit a top score of 56 to help P’Tani Masters to an impressive 198 all out off 20 overs. Park Hill once again failed to cross the 100 mark when they exhausted their 20 overs with 80 for 9 on the scoreboard. Elvis Wood Deighton Butler had turned in figures of 3 for another outstanding all- 11 for P’tani. round performance, In the only other hitting 54 not out and match played on the taking 3 for 15. weekend, Sion Hill Masters defeated Belfongoo Masters by 51 DEIGHTON BUTLER runs. Scores: Sion Hill and Jerome Samuel stroked half centuries to Masters 141 all out off 19.3 overs inspire their teams, Sylvester Vanloo 39, North East and Ronald Medford 32 St.Vincent Cooperative Rohan King 3 for 15 and Bank Sylvanus Morgan 3 for Ptani Masters respectively, in the 7th round of 16; Belfongo Masters 90 for 7 off 20 overs. matches in the SVG Wendell Glasgow made 20/20 Masters Cricket 40. Competition on the Two games scheduled weekend. Butler hit an unbeaten for Sunday, one at Arnos Vale One and the other 54, as North East Masters posted 169 for 3 at Arnos Vale Two, were abandoned due to wet from 20 overs, to beat pitches. Park Hill The following are the United Masters by a points standings at the resounding 91 runs. end of the 7th round: Park Hill Zone A —Ptani Masters United Masters’ reply of (24 points), North East 78 all out came off 17.4 (20 points), Stubbs overs. Oscar Ryan topscored with 20. Deighton Masters (18 points) Cato’s Heavy Equipment, Butler was the pick of Park Hill United and La the North East bowlers
Croix (8 points), Bequia (6 points) and Marriaqua (1 point). Zone B - RSVG Police (22 points from 6 matches), Sion Hill (20 points), North Leeward (10 points from 6 matches), Belfongo and RYB Challengers (8 points), and Pastures and Rudy’s Electrical Barrouallie (6 points). The outcome of this weekend’s round of matches is expected to determine the top eight teams. I.B.A.ALLEN
Jerome Samuel hit 56 to lead P’tani Masters to victory over Park Hill.
lowly Aruba in the return leg in Oranjestad, which SVG lost 1-2. They had won the home leg here 2-0 and went through to the next round of the play offs 3-2 on aggregate. Hendrickson, the current head coach of the Seattle Sounders FC2, expressed concern with some areas, particularly the pace at which SVG were playing. The team has been hit by injuries to strikers Myron James and Cornelius Stewart. Indications are, however, that barring a slight concern over one defender who reports say is experiencing a level of discomfort in his leg, all of the players available for selection are fully fit. National coach, Cornelius Huggins believes that his team has the potential to shock the USA, as Jamaica did at the Gold Cup when that Caribbean country beat
them 2-1 in the semifinal of the competition, a few months ago. “The US has a name, and some of their players are experienced but the game is played on the field and it’s eleven against eleven, and once we focus on our game, we will give a good account of ourselves,” he said. SVG will travel to the US to play in temperatures that are unfamiliar and on an artificial surface that could prove to be unfriendly. The team was initially set to spend a week in New York to acclimatise and engage in two warmup matches, but this plan was scrapped by the SVGFF after securing a friendly against Antigua and Barbuda instead. Following their encounter with the USA, ‘Vincy Heat’ will take on Guatemala at the Arnos Vale Playing Field on November 17th , beginning at 3.30pm.
Grenadines basketball begins this weekend THE 2015 Digicel Grenadines Basketball Championship opens this weekend in Canouan, at the newly renovated Canouan Hard Court. Four Grenadines Teams are scheduled to participate in the Annual Competition: Bequia AllStars, Canouan Islanders, Mayreau Kings and Union Island All Stars. The Union Island All-Stars are the defending champions. Competition will in fact begin today, Friday November 6, at 7:30pm, but the official Opening Ceremony, which will see a parade of the teams, will take place on Saturday November 7, from 6pm. Games will also be played in Mayreau and Union Island, with the tournament concluding in Bequia on Saturday November 21, with the Finals and trophy presentation. The Tournament is sponsored by Digicel, with John Clark’s Villa in
Union Island All Stars – defending Grenadines basketball champions. Canouan, Wind N Sea Ltd, Frangipani Hotel, CCA, and MASA Emergency Benefit Programme as contributing sponsors. The Tournament is co-ordinated by Sabrina Mitchell of the Bequia Basketball Association, Roseman
Adams of the Southern Grenadines Basketball Association and Rohan Henry of the Canouan Basketball Association. I.B.A.ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 29.
Sports
Tyrone Tweets out AS THE CHAPTERS of this country’s football book continue to be rewritten, there will always be a page for Tyrone ‘Tweety’ Spence. President Venold Coombs acknowledged Spence’s death as a huge loss to this country. Spence was part of that memorable squad which alerted the region and the rest of the world of the potential that the nation possesses as a football force. St. Vincent and the Grenadines placed second in the inaugural Caribbean Cup held in Suriname in 1979. That year was of significance to the nation, with Independence secured from Britain October 27. The performance of the Vincentian team was a boost to our national pride, and since that leap, there has been a level of consistency unheralded for a nation of such a small population. Tweety, as he was affectionately called, was part of that defence. He was of medium height, but his agility enabled him to outjump many taller opponents. He was a student of the game and coordinated well with his teammates. People recall his relationship with goalkeeper Dorian Phillips. Tweety had so much confidence in Phillips that sometimes he worried supporters with the force with which he would deliver the ball to his goalkeeper when threatened. Spence and Phillips formed part of the Roseans outfit which emerged from the Rose Place area on the western end of capital city Kingstown. At a time when the Club structure was taking root, Roseans turned out to be one of the more consistent teams on the national scale. His ability stood out and his elevation to national duties was a matter of courtesy. He first played for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 1968 among players like George Forbes, Dennis Murray, Cyril Thomas, Carl Glasgow, Douglas Cambridge, Babs Jones, William Muckett, Rudy Boucher, George Peters, Douglas Doyle, Fred Trimmingham, Gideon Horne and Jeff Bailey. Spence’s career lasted 15 years, and in 1984, he was coach of the national squad. He was a role model to many youngsters, and earned respect for his dedication to football and his contribution to the rise in the standard here. Spence was honoured in 2010 for his part in the historic 1979 outfit. That squad included Dorian Phillips, Ali Munroe, Tyrone Barrow, Julian Small, Raultie Lowe, Guy Lowe, Tyrone Grant, Ashley Baptiste, Paul O’Garro, Sydney Mandeville, Raymond Ballantyne, Stanley Morris, John Cato, Elliot Millington, Osbourne Millington, Keith Bonadie, Vin Phillips and Pete Morris. He worked at the Post Office for many years, and an incident on his workplace is reported to have contributed to deterioration in his health. His selflessness was demonstrated when he took a team of Special athletes to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the 1991 World Games in Minnesota, Minneapolis, at which the team placed fourth. Four years later, Spence guided the Special Olympians to Gold medal in football. That bond with the School for Children with Special Needs was strengthened. Spence was subsequently honoured by that institution. By then, his condition was worsening and it took the intervention of former colleagues to help relieve his plight. Spence’s passing comes at a critical juncture for this country’s football. A Friendly against Antigua last Wednesday served as preparation for the Vincentian footballers. They play the United States in a World Cup qualifier Friday, November 18 in St. Louis, Missouri. Spence maintained his interest in the sport for which he gave such a critical period of his life. The experience he gained on the field of play served him in good stead. Spence stands out among the stalwarts of local football. His praises would be sung in every territory he played. His children and loved ones may be relieved by the outpouring of love he engenders. THE VINCENTIANS joins in paying tribute to this patriot.
Schools tennis climaxes today THE 2015 SCHOOLS Open Table Tennis Championships climax today, Friday 6th November, beginning at 2:30pm, with the staging of the finals in both secondary and primary schools divisions, for both boys and girls. The West St. George Secondary School, gradually becoming something of the centre of table tennis tournaments here, will again serve as the venue for table tennis finals. According to Sean Stanley, Public Relations Officer of the SVG Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA), the nearing completion of the Primary Schools Championship evokes a feeling of immense satisfaction for the Association and himself in particular. Stanley looks back on the efforts through the years to “breed the game at the primary school level,” and sees this year’s climax as justification for his and the efforts of others. On the actual green table, in the Primary Schools division, the Layou Government School is favoured to come away with at least one of the divisional team championships, as they field finalists in both the Boys and Girls divisions. They will face the Gomea Methodist School in the Girls Finals, and one of their two teams entered in the Championship, Layou Government School 2, will face the Belair Government School in the Boys Finals. In the primary Girls Singles Finals, Leah Cumberbatch of the Kingstown Preparatory School is up against Zola Fraser of the Gomea Methodist School, and in the Boys Open Singles Finals, Renson Sayers of the Brighton Primary School will try to get the better of his schoolmate, Kelroy Phillips. In the Secondary Schools Boys Teams Finals, the more fancied SVG Grammar School will match wits
Sean Stanley, PRO/SVGTTA and table tennis coach, takes special satisfaction in seeing the Primary Schools Andre Mitchell, 2015 Championship National Junior Champion, through to will hope to add his name completion. to another national title against a determined here. and improving West St. George Secondary School. In the Open Singles Boys Finals, the reigning 2015 National Junior Champion, Andre Mitchell of the St. Vincent Grammar School, will clash with Rondre’ John of the JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School. John was a beaten finals in this year’s Cadet Division of the National Championship. In the Girls Open Singles Finals, Vedel Charles of the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown serves off against Aliah John of the Girls’ High School. The staging of the 2015 Schools Table Tennis Championship was a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Education, the Division of Sports and the SVG Table Tennis Association.
Three for Antigua swim meet THREE The Bequia United Swim Club TEENAGE contingent to the a swim swimmers from meet in Antigua (from left) Bequia left the Kenus Tally, US Coach Kara state on Randall, Jonelson Compton, Thursday for Tyrell Ragguette and Head Antigua, where Coach Tauran Ollivierre they will compete in the Antigua and Barbuda Swimming Federation DEFENDING champions Youngsters National Open Water FC retained their Bank of SVG 5K. League Seniors title, with a 2 — nil The event is victory over Emerald Stars, as the scheduled for Sunday curtains came down on the 2015 8th November at the Barrouallie Football season on Fort James Beach. Sunday, at the Kearton’s playing The three, Jonelson field. Compton, 16 years old, In an encounter that closed without and Tyrell Ragguette a goal scored at the end of the first and Kenus Tally, both half, both teams raised their game in 17 years old, are the second half, but it was Finals representing Bequia MVP Daniel Patrick who broke the United Swim Club, deadlock when he converted in the which was officially 58th minute to give his team a 1-nil formed in November advantage. Youngsters extended their 2014. lead 12 minutes later through a According to Tauran header from Maldino Browne, sealing Ollivierre, President victory for the green team. and Coach of the Club, In a game played before the Seniors this is the first overseas finals, a converted penalty by Trivis outing for the Club. Fraser was enough to give Adare 1 Ollivierre was victory and the title in the Norell Hull expected to accompany U17 division. They won Predators in the trio as coach and to that final. Both teams had played be assisted by US swim unbeaten throughout the preliminary coach Kara Randall. round of the competition. Both Ollivierre and On Saturday, Hill View sealed third Randall offer their spot in the Senior division, when as services voluntarily to they won 3-2 on penalty kicks over the Club. Glebe Strikers. The score was
Youngsters FC retains Bagga Title deadlocked at 1 apiece at the end of regulation, with goals from Rohan Dickson for Hillview and Winston Browne for Glebe. Adare 2 were awarded third spot in the Norell Hull U17, as rivals Layou failed to show up for their scheduled match. In addition to the team awards, the following individual awards were also handed out on Sunday:BOSVG Senior Division: Richard Francis (Emerald Stars) - Best Goalkeeper; Julius Caesar (The Expendables) - Best Defender; Deno John (Emerald Stars) - Best Midfielder; Chester Morgan (Emerald Stars) - Most Goals; Daniel Patrick (Youngsters FC)) - MVP of the finals. Hairoun Beer Knock Out: Dale Michael (The Expendables) - MVP of the finals was Norell Hull U17 Division: Jadiel Chance (Predators) — Best Goalkeeper; Kenyon Delpesche (Predators) - Best Defender; Trivis Fraser (Adare 1 - Best Midfielder, Most Goals and MVP of the finals. I.B.A.ALLEN
30. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 06, 2015. 31.
Classifieds
JAMES ROGER THOMAS
CUNJA GARNET BROWNE
Cathedral of the Assumption Kingstown Saturday 31st October, 2015 1:00 p.m.
Redemption Sharpes Playing Field Monday 2nd November, 2015 2:00 p.m.
ARTHUR TREVOR DAVIS New Testament Church Lowmans Leeward Saturday 31st October, 2015 2:00 p.m.
SIS. EDVIRA JACK JOHNATHAN DAISLEY BLACK Deliverance Baptist Church Lauders Saturday 31st October, 2015 2:00 p.m.
Sunrise: 28/7/1915 Sunset: 21/10/2015 (100 Years) Hope Methodist Church Friday 30th October, 2015 3:00 p.m.
NELCIA VERINA GLOSTER-FRASER St. Patrick Anglican Church Barrouallie Saturday 31st October, 2015 2:30 p.m.
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GONSALVES: LYTTLE’S RESPONSE
DISSAPOINTING able to move on with it amicably,” Gonsalves posited. According to Lyttle, his nonMINISTER OF TOURISM Senator appearance had nothing to do Camillo Gonslaves told THE with him withdrawing from VINCENTIAN on Monday, that he the show, as some people have was disappointed that Kevin purported. Lyttle and his team had seen it The artiste instead, laid appropriate to take to Social blame at the feet of the local Media and the airwaves, to travel agency tasked with explain why he, Lyttle, was making his flight bookings. absent from last Sunday night’s Moments before the show’s (November 1) Dominica Benefit commencement, Lyttle took to Concert, at Victoria Park, a social media to explain his concert organised by Gonsalves’ absence. ministry. He posted that he had been Senator Gonsalves was travelling and when he got particularly disappointed back to his base in Miami, he because, according to him, moved immediately to check neither Lyttle nor his team on what he had assumed was had contacted him, the a confirmed booking to SVG. organiser of the event, or other To his consternation, his persons involved in organising team informed him that there the event, before making their was no flight booked for him. sentiments public. “… It seems that the travel “They have made their agency found it much more radio and social media important to book everybody announcements without any flight except mine,” the ‘Turn consultation,” Gonsalves said. Me On’ singer posted. He added that there was He described the travel information in his possession agency’s non-action as “very that was at variance with unprofessional, unacceptable what was being alleged by and somewhat deliberate,” and Lyttle and his team, and that described himself as being it was his (Gonsalves) “super disappointed” that he intention to speak to Lyttle on could not perform at the the issue. concert. “I thought that it was unfortunate that there was Kevin deserves an apology this posting. People asking about it, but I believe that for Meanwhile, Lyttle’s wife, those that attended the Dr. Jacqueline James-Lyttle, concert that, they had a good sought to clear the air on time,” he told THE Monday, after the issue VINCENTIAN. became a hot topic on at least “And we continue to value two local radio stations. Kevin Lyttle very highly; he is James-Lyttle said that one of the greatest cultural efforts were made to get a exports, and we continue to response from Irie Travel, the value him, and if there was an agency responsible for booking error, I am sure we will be Lyttle’s flight. by KENVILLE HORNE/ DAYLE DA SILVA
Senator Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Tourism and primary organiser of the Benefit Concert, was taken aback by Lyttle not contacting him. “Travel arrangement was not made for Lyttle’s team despite the many attempts made by myself and my team on the ground to work with Irie Travel,” she affirmed. As late as Saturday, she inquired about the flight arrangement, only to discover that the flight still had not been booked. “If the organizers had any reservations, the professional thing to do would have been to contact Kevin’s management and tell us. Throwing him under the bus at a charity event, where he was not being paid but was just being a good citizen of the Caribbean, is OUTRAGEOUS!” the frustrated wife said. “I am extremely
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
Kevin Lyttle and his wife Jacqueline have both expressed their disappointment with the travel agent’s handling of Kevin’s travel arrangements. disappointed in the way Kevin’s travel was handled. I am even more frustrated that once again it will appear to Kevin Lyttle’s fans and the country that he does not care. We deserve and need an apology,” James-Lyttle contended. In 2001, Lyttle released his song ‘Turn Me On’. The song
reached number two in the UK, spending seven weeks in the Top 10 of the UK Singles Chart. It eventually became a worldwide hit in 2004, reaching number 4 in the United States, number 3 in Australia, and placing within the Top 5 in many European countries.
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