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FRIDAY,
MAY 15, 2015
VOLUME 109, No.20
www.thevincentian.com
EC$1.50
Most of the murders and violent crimes here involve the use of illegal guns.
by HAYDN HUGGINS
Defence lawyer Ronald Marks is known to have a record of cooperating with the relevant authorities in an effort to recover illegal firearms in this country.
DEFENCE LAWYER RONALD MARKS has asked the Court to encourage combined, co-ordinated approaches in an effort to take illegal firearms and ammunition off the streets.
Marks’ request came during his mitigation plea in a gunrelated matter at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. He revealed that the co-ordinated action by himself, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the police, the defendant Dave Sutton and members of the community, had resulted in various persons surrendering illegal firearms and ammunition. He noted that the police were able to recover three other guns and 21 rounds of ammunition, as a result of the amnesty. “We submit that this is the sort of community police work that will be very effective in the fight against crime,” Marks told the court. “Notwithstanding the seriousness of the crime, we are asking the court to encourage this sort of approach to address the serious problem of crime and violence in our community,” he suggested. The lawyer expressed the view that, if Sutton did not have a criminal record, the matter might not have even reached the court.
The matter Sutton, a resident of
Georgetown, was, on Monday, sentenced to two years in prison for possession of a 12-guage shot-gun without licence, and six months for having two rounds of 12 gauge ammunition. The sentences will run concurrently. Sutton was arrested after being found in possession of the gun and ammunition, by a party of officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), headed by Sergeant Duane Bailey, while they were on mobile patrol at Georgetown on February 14 last year. He had initially pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was granted bail; but changed his plea to guilty when he returned to court on Monday. Sutton had 14 previous convictions, many of which were for ammunition possession. Marks had also told the court, in mitigation, that “He (Sutton) has a history of assisting the police, and I believe that is why there was that trust between Sergeant Bailey and the defendant.”
Giving the defendant credit Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias told Sutton she felt he should be given credit. She took into account his
Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias gave the defendant credit but had no choice, given the seriousness of the offence, than to impose a custodial sentence. guilty plea and the fact that he assisted the police in taking a number of firearms and ammunition off the streets. But the Chief Magistrate stressed the seriousness of the offence, as well as Sutton’s criminal record, and insisted that a custodial sentence would be imposed. Continued on Page 3.
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2. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Business
TSSS grateful for LIMEÊs assistance JOHN RENTON, Principal of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School (TSSS), says that the input from Telecommunications provider LIME was instrumental in that institution sending a team to this year’s Penn Relays in Pennsylvania, USA. LIME donated $10,000 towards travel costs for the team which, according to Renton, put in exceptional performances. “Our youths performed excellently. They placed first in three of their heats, and the males shaved three minutes off their previous time in the 4x400 metres relay. They are closing in on the Jamaicans. “All of this would not have been possible without the sponsorship we
received from LIME. It was a considerable contribution, and they were significant to us getting to the games. “We are very happy to be partnered with LIME, and we are happy that they recognize the value of the Penn Relays,” Renton added. Marketing Manager of LIME Nikala Williams pointed out, “We are thrilled to partner with the Thomas Saunders Secondary School Athletics Team, and look forward to them representing our company brand well, both at home and abroad.” Renton noted that the contribution to the team is a clear indication that LIME is not only in tune with athletics, but also with sports in general.
Marketing Manager of LIME Nikala Williams (centre) and Marketing Assistant Veronique Williams (right back) with the 2015 Penn Relay Thomas Saunders Secondary School Athletics team.
Fish Fest gets ‘LIME’ upgrade
“Thanks to LIME, we would be having more fish nights, where we would be able to better promote healthy eating, and spread the word that fish is a better source of food.” That is the view of Junior Sutherland, Public Relations Officer of the National Fisherman’s Day Committee. Speaking on behalf of officials of Randolph “Toot-I” Fredrick the Fisheries Department of the collects his prize from LIME’s Marketing Assistant Ministry of Veronique Williams in the Agriculture, presence of Linda Grant of Forestry and the Fisherman’s Day Fisheries, he Committee. lauded his Committee’s new partnership with telecommunications provider LIME. LIME’s involvement, dubbed ‘Upgrade Vincy Fish Fest’, has led to Fish Fest moving from a seasonal event to an all year activity, which means the Festival will go past the June 1, Fisherman’s Day, and would also incorporate more communities around St Vincent and the Grenadines, Sutherland explained. “Since LIME came on board, the contribution they have been giving us is tremendous. We have been able to introduce a new competition called Man Versus Seafood, and LIME is a major sponsor of that event,” he added. The Man Versus Seafood Challenge requires competitors to consume a bowl containing a variety of raw seafood, including, whelks, octopus, and sea eggs, in five minutes or less. There have been two such Challenges held to date, the first in Barrouallie and the other in Calliaqua. Randolph “Toot-I” Fredrick won the Barrouallie contest, and Jonathan Edwards the one in Calliaqua. The 1st place winners each received a waterproof, digital Fugoo speaker, while the 2nd place winners received brand new Android smartphones with free data, compliments LIME. In thanking LIME for their corporate partnership, Sutherland said, “We have taken it to a higher level by introducing LIME. We now have more marketing of the events, and would now include more communities; so we see this as a blessing.” The next Fish Fest takes place on May 22, at Rose Place, Kingstown.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 3.
News 3
Invest SVG strengthening its capacity Compete Caribbean providing US$180,000 THERE IS MUCH made available through OPTIMISM that the soon to the Inter-American be implemented project Development Bank aimed at the institutional (IDB), UKAid strengthening and Department for capacity building of Invest International SVG, will yield positive Development and results. Canada. Prime Minister Dr “We are very pleased Ralph Gonsalves and to partner with Compete Sylvia Dohnert, Caribbean on this Executive Director of the project…it is anticipated Compete Caribbean that at the end of this Program signed the project, investment will contract on Tuesday at increase,” Ambrose-Black Cabinet Room, to set the said. project in motion. The project is expected The project will to last 14 months, she include training the staff added. and other technical Similar projects have support, Executive been implemented in Director of Invest other countries across SVG, Bernadette the region, Dohnert said. Ambrose-Black, Foreign direct explained. investment can be a way Total costs of the to generate revenue in a project is set at country, but countries US$220,000, with such as St Vincent and by DAYLE DA SILVA
the Grenadines needed to ensure that they produce items that are unique when compared to the rest of the world, she advised. Prime Minister Gonsalves, while delivering the keynote address, said that when his government took office in 2001, there was a hit and miss approach to foreign investment. “There was an inadequate institutional arrangement,” Gonsalves said. The signing of the contract was just one of the many additions to the system that had been subsequently set up, as this country continues its work in attracting foreign investment. “There are not going to be miracles,” the Prime Minister cautioned, adding, “But
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Sylvia Dohnert, Executive Director of the Compete Caribbean Program, affix their signatures to the contract, in the company of Invest SVG’s ED Bernadette Ambrose-Black (left) and IDB OECS Coordinator Alejandro Carrion. we expect that when they are wading in water, that they would not drown. So we expect some good results.” While admitting that there are some areas
that needed some work, like insolvencies, accessibility and credit, to improve the investment climate, the Prime Minister insisted that the climate for
attracting foreign business here was good, and referred to the enactment and implementation of legislation to address the shortcomings.
Taking the guns off the streets Credit Unions in ECCU: Not Regulated Under New Banking Bill Continued from Frontpage.
CREDIT UNIONS which operate within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) will not be affected by the New Banking Bill which is being passed in the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) member countries. The ECCB Monetary Council, at its 81st meeting held on 24 February 2015, agreed to the passage of a new Banking Bill in the eight ECCB member countries. The implementation of the proposed Banking Bill was viewed as an urgent requirement to address the issues affecting the ECCU banking sector, and to maintain the integrity and stability of the system. The Bill also provides for greater protection of depositors. The ECCB Agreement Act 1983 grants the ECCB power to regulate banking business on behalf of and in collaboration with its member governments. The Bill therefore grants the ECCB regulatory and supervisory oversight for commercial banks and credit institutions which carry on the business of banking in the ECCU. On the basis of this mandate, the proposed Banking Bill provides for the regulation of banking business. The Banking Bill defines banking business as the business of receiving funds through: 1. the acceptance of monetary deposits which are repayable on demand or after notice or any similar
operation; and 2. the frequent sale or placement of bonds, certificates, notes or other securities, and the use of such funds either in whole or in part for extensions of credit or investment for the account and at the risk of the person doing such business. Banking business is also defined as any other activity recognised by the Central Bank as banking practice and which a licensed financial institution may additionally be authorised to do. Credit unions conduct business of a financial nature, but they do not conduct banking business, and are therefore not regulated by the ECCB under the existing Banking Act and will not be regulated under the proposed Banking Bill. Credit Unions are regulated by the single regulatory units in individual ECCU countries under the Cooperative Societies Act. (Contributed)
Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN later, Marks said that, after his client was arrested, persons contacted him (Marks) inquiring how they could help. “I spoke with Sergeant (Duane) Bailey, and he informed me that he had spoken to the defendant, after his arrest, and he (Bailey) told Sutton that if he could assist in getting firearms off the street, the court would give him (defendant) credit for cooperating with the police. I spoke to my client and together with myself, Bailey, the DPP’s Office and members of the community, we coordinated the amnesty,” the lawyer explained. Marks, however, declined to say how the amnesty was coordinated. He pointed out that with this case, involving one firearm and two rounds of ammunition, they were able to take three additional firearms and 21 rounds of ammunition off the streets. “We have to remember
that every one of these bullets could take a life,” Marks stressed. “If he didn’t have those 14 previous convictions, I strongly believe that no activated period of imprisonment would have been imposed. “Without this amnesty, and taking into consideration his antecedents, the sentencing guidelines would have suggested a period of about six or seven years in prison,” Marks opined. He explained that the approach they took entails a three win situation. “I get the best possible outcome for my client, the police get the guns off the streets, and the community is made safer.” When contacted, Karim Nelson, Crown Counsel in the DPP’s office, told THE VINCENTIAN, “If in every case, we could take this sort of action, we will see a drastic reduction in illegal firearms and firearmrelated offences.” Nelson confirmed that, while it was a combined effort, the idea came
An official gun amnesty was introduced during the tenure of former Commissioner of Police Keith Miller. Its success was temporary at best. from Marks, and it was not the first time that Marks had advised a client to assist the police in recovering firearms and ammunition. Nelson expressed the view that, had it not been for the amnesty, the defendant, with the criminal record he had, may have received about five or six years in prison. A magistrate has the power to impose a sentence of up to seven years for firearm or ammunition possession.
V Rillan Hill
4. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
“Arrest child molester,’ man charged for DouglasÊ relatives cry death
by DAYLE DA SILVA POLICE have made a breakthrough into the shooting death of 23-yearold Aljay Douglas, who was gunned down on May 1 at Campden Park. According to a police report, at 7:55 pm on May 7, Police arrested Schemel Imran and charged Dunbar arrested Schemel Imran Dunbar, 27-year- and charged for the murder of old, unemployed resident of Rillan Aljay Douglas. Hill. The report stated that Dunbar was arrested for “with malice aforethought caused the death of Aljay Chadrick Douglas to wit by shooting him in his head and stomach with a gun.” Dunbar appeared at the Serious Offences Court last Friday before Chief Magistrate, Rechanne BrowneMatthias, and was not required to plea. He was remanded into custody, and is expected to re-appear in court on September 1. There was no offer of bail, and Dunbar was remanded back into custody. The court heard that twelve witnesses are expected to give evidence when the matter is next heard. Douglas was shot and killed in an area just outside the Campden Park playing field where an event was taking place. It was noted that the young man was collecting money when he was approached by an assailant who shot him in the head and abdomen.
by HAYDN HUGGINS A 48-YEAR-OLD MOTHER of three is calling on the police to arrest a young man who, she claims, sexually molested her 14-year-old mentally challenged daughter. The woman told THE VINCENTIAN that she and her sister know the man well, and have made a report to the police. Her sister, who had caught the man in the act, gave a statement to the lawmen, including details about him. The child’s mother said they reported the matter to the police the same day her sister informed her of what she had witnessed; but to date, no arrest has been made, and the man is walking the streets in full view of the public. The woman’s sister told THE VINCENTIAN that she had heard that the man in question was seen going to the house where the child lives with her mother and elder brother, on at least two occasions. On April 8, she decided “to spy” on him. The child’s mother had gone to work, and the minor’s elder sibling had left the house, leaving his sister at home alone that day. The woman recalled that around 10:30 a.m., she saw the man going into her sister’s yard. She followed him and met his slippers outside. She entered the house and went into the bedroom where she met the intruder lying on the child, on a bed. She said he was naked and the girl had only
her upper garments on. “As soon as he see me, he jump off, and he said to me, ‘Ah she pull me pon um’,” the woman related. “I stood up there, he pull his pants and jersey from the ground and say ‘Miss, ley me tell you what happen’, and hold on to me. I said, ‘don’t touch me, you should have never come into my sister’s home and do such a thing’, and he let me go. I know him, and when my sister came from work, I told her what I saw,” she continued. The child’s mother reiterated that soon after her sister related to her what had happened, she reported the matter to the police, who gave her a medical form to take the child to a doctor. According to the woman, her daughter was examined and the medicals revealed that she was sexually active. She recalled that she was told by persons in the area that the man was seen going to her home on previous occasions, and she believes that her daughter was taken advantage of because she is mentally challenged. She also disclosed that, after she reported the matter, a female police officer visited her home and took a statement from the child. “I really feeling sad how they have not yet made any arrest. The man is walking up and down all over the place. Me does see him. If me nah bin give my life to
Charge against businessman Thomas withdrawn mindful of those responsibilities I am THE PROSECUTION on constrained to withdraw this Monday withdrew a charge of case from your honour’s dishonesty against consideration.” businessman Kenrick Thomas, Chief Magistrate Rechanne also known as Ken Thomas. Browne-Matthias then told Thomas was charged with Thomas that the case against between March 2, 2010 and him was withdrawn, and that June 3, 2012 at Arnos Vale, he was free to go. knowing or believing that a When contacted on quantity of household items Wednesday, Nelson told THE valued at over $70,000 to be VINCENTIAN, “The stolen goods, dishonestly Prosecution has a duty to received them for his own ensure that justice is served, benefit. and justice can only be served When the matter resumed at when there is credible evidence the Serious Offences Court on before the court, upon which Monday, Crown Counsel Karim the court can be persuaded Nelson told the court, beyond reasonable doubt that “Prosecutors are Ministers of the defendant is guilty of the Justice, and with that comes offence charged.” responsibilities; and being Nelson added, “If during the by HAYDN HUGGINS
trial, it becomes clear that the prosecution is not in a position to discharge that burden, then the prosecution has a duty to withdraw.” Initially, Thomas had also been charged with between March 2, 2010 and June 3, 2010, counselled Edwin Caine of South Rivers to commit the offence of burglary on the property of Evelyn Jackson of Arnos Vale. Both charges were initially laid indictable, but earlier this year, Thomas was discharged at the Preliminary Inquiry on the counselling charge, while the prosecution opted to proceed summarily on the charge of handling stolen goods.
Christ, me might ah mash um up, because me ah see um every day, and it does hurt me heart how police nah ah come pick um up,” the girl’s mother said. In a letter written to Commissioner of Police Michael Charles, dated April 30, this year, on behalf of the woman and her daughter, Attorney Kay Bacchus-Browne stated that she was instructed that the child was caught in the act of sexual intercourse, by her aunt. The letter stated that to date, no arrest had been made, and the lawyer requested that an arrest be made for having intercourse with a girl who is defective and under the age of consent. In a letter dated May 5, Commissioner Charles responded to BacchusBrowne’s letter, stating that the police were conducting
Attorney Kay BacchusBrowne has written to the Commissioner of Police, urging that an arrest be made in a matter of child molestation. investigations into the matter, and the appropriate action would be taken as soon as the investigations are completed. When contacted on Wednesday, the Commissioner told THE VINCENTIAN that the matter was still under investigation.
Retrial starts for murder accused by HAYDN HUGGINS BARBARA FRAZER, the mother of former college student Agassi Frazer who was killed six years ago, was the only witness to have mounted the stand when the retrial commenced on Wednesday. Agassi’s cousin, Odinga Foster, a former loans officer at the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union (KCCU), is charged with the kidnapping, conspiracy to kidnap and murder of the youngster. The offences were alleged to Agassi Fraser’s have occurred between battered body was September and October 2009. discovered lying in Agassi’s body was discovered some bushes in lying in bushes in the area of Highway Trading, Arnos Vale, on Arnos Vale, not too far from the main October 10, 2009, after he had road. gone missing. He was an 18-year-old student of the St. Vincent Community College at the time of his death. Attorney Kay Bacchus-Browne is representing Foster at the retrial, while Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Colin John leads the case for the prosecution. He is assisted by Crown Counsel Karim Nelson. The matter, which was expected to continue yesterday (Thursday), is being heard by a 12-member jury, while Justice Kathy Ann Latchoo presides. At the first trial, June 13, 2013, Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle, now retired, discharged the jury and ordered a retrial. The retrial was ordered in the interest of justice, based on the findings of an inquiry into a report that a relative of one of the jurors on the panel, had a close association with Agassi’s family.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 5.
Regional - Cuba Feature
The Sion Hill inter-section, considered the heartbeat of the East Kingstown constituency represented in parliament by Arnhim Eustace, was taken over by NDP supporters last Saturday evening.
Eustace confident of victory by DAYLE DA SILVA PRESIDENT AND POLITICAL LEADER of the Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), Arnhim Eustace, says that he feels confident, after seeing the gathering at Sion Hill last Saturday for a rally staged by his party, that they, the NDP, will win the upcoming General Elections. “We feel that people are changing and that we will win the election when it is announced,” Eustace said on the ‘New Times’ radio programme on Monday. He preceded that by saying that he believed that the party’s supporters were generally pleased with the event which occurred – a candle light march from the party’s headquarters at Beachmont, to the Sion Hill intersection for the rally. “It really was encouraging; when I spoke, I felt the change – and I still feel the change this morning (Monday),” he said. Eustace, who is the current Leader of the Opposition here, added that he was particularly pleased by the large turnout of young people. “When I was coming up in the march, is only young people I saw around me.” The event was important, he said, adding that he thought that the message had been sent out to the nation, that the time for change had arrived. “And we would do whatever we can do to facilitate that change in a smooth and peaceful manner, in the best interest of all our people,” the Opposition Leader said. As far as he was concerned, the vent was an overall confidence boost for the entire team, but he was cautious to add that the members of his team were fully aware that taking over government would entail a lot of work. A change is needed now!! And in related news, the NDP turned on the heat on his party’s campaign leading up to the next general elections. Sion Hill was transformed into a sea of yellow, last Saturday evening, as supporters rallied around their various area representatives, in a candle light march and rally. Eustace touched on many aspects of the economy, including agriculture,
Arhnhim Eustace, leader of the opposition New Democratic Party, spared no bones about how bad the state of the country’s affairs was, and how much work his party would have when it took over government. tourism, the public debt, the National Insurance Services (NIS) and the general state of affairs of a country that, he said, was in dire need of a change in leadership. “Businesses have either downsized or closed because of the state of the economy under Ralph Gonsalves,” Eustace said. A lot of people are presently out of work and the Prime Minister boasts about welfare, but that was nothing to talk about, Eustace noted. “To be on welfare is because you can’t do better, and I believe that a new government will be able to do much better, much, much better than what we are doing today.” And turning to the issue of fiscal policy, Eustace admitted that many persons did not pay attention to the detailed information that is laid out during the budgetary address. According to the leader of the opposition, statutory bodies such as BRAGSA and the Tourism Authority are being short-changed, the latter being a case where EC$13.4 million was to be allocated, but only EC$3 million was paid over. “So when I see tourism not performing, it is partly because the government is broke, and therefore, the Tourism Authority cannot do all their work,” Eustace told supporters. “This is a serious matter and why it is important that you put people in office who understands these issues,” he said to resounding approval from the mass of supporters.
V Becket serenades mothers 6. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
News
sStory and photo by ELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; naking11236@gmail.com US CORRESPONDENT
LEGENDARY VINCENTIAN-BORN, Caribbean soca artiste/composer Alston “Becket” Cyrus on Saturday night wowed the huge audience and serenaded mothers at a major concert in Brooklyn, New York. Becket was among a caste of Caribbean artistes and cultural figures at the New York-based Everybody’s Magazine annual “Mother We Love You Concert” at the Walt Whitman Theater, Brooklyn College. Among others who serenaded mothers and the four honorees at the gala event were Trinidadian Calypso Monarch Chucky Gordon, Lyrikal, Kaci Fennell, Miss Universe Jamaica, Biggie Irie and Delcita. “Nice to be in New York again; greetings from St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” exclaimed Becket, a Layou native, as Vincentians in the audience proudly hailed back:
“Yeah, yeah, yeah!” “We’re going to stand up and clap for all the mothers all over the world,” Becket implored the crowd, while rendering ‘Mama’, his monster hit dedicated to mothers. The crowd approved and instantly responded, with a standing ovation . The Vincentian Goodwill Ambassador then struck up ‘President Obama’, urging the audience to chime in with “Obama, Obama, Obama.” At the end of the song, Becket distributed free CDs to some patrons. ‘President Obama’ was requested by Herman Hall, the Grenadian-born publisher of Everybody’s Magazine, Becket said. ‘President Obama’ is one of four new tracks that appear on Becket’s latest CD, ‘The Singles File’ — a mixture of hit singles that were never on an album. Becket’s ‘President Obama’ is considered one of the better among many songs written in commemoration of Barack Obama becoming the first black
Becket wows audience at Mother’s Day Concert. In 1976, Becket began working with calypso and soca’s arranger extraordinaire, Vincentian-born Frankie President of the United States, awards, at the first ever and the song is expected to be Caribbean Music Awards, at the McIntosh, a union that still lodged in the President Barack world famous Apollo Theatre in exists today. Obama Library when that is Harlem, New York. commissioned in Chicago. Becket also copped an award Patrons’ impressions from the Trinidad and Tobago “Becket’s performance was Waking up the crowd Association of Houston, Texas fabulous,” Georgetown native for “Teaser”. Oscar James, a singer, In a world in which there is In 1994, Ella Me Vacila, the songwriter, producer and so much strife, conflict and Spanish version of “Teaser”, musician, told THE schism, Becket, a US Army earned Becket a BMI Latin VINCENTIAN. veteran, reminded patrons that Award and a “In spite of being in the ‘Love is The Answer’. a song Billboard/Univision Award for business so long, he was very that was remade in 2001 the Salsa/Tropical Song of the featuring post-911 lyrics. Year. Cover versions of “Teaser” energetic,” added James.. “The crowd reciprocated well to his Then, as the audience began have been translated into winding up, the veteran soca several languages, Becket said. performance. He still has it in him.” artiste/calypsonian blasted The dynamic, versatile Ainsley Primus, president of ‘Coming High’ — a 1977 breakartiste has had a distinguished out hit that earned him gold. 39-odd-year career, producing a the Brooklyn-based, Vincentianowned Dynamite Calypso Tent, “We changed the name, and record 26 albums; numerous agreed, stating that Becket outwe call it award-winning singles; one performed others. something movie soundtrack, “Disco “I think it was a very good else,” Becket Calypso”, in The Deep motion performance,” added the Arnos said. picture; and five compositions, Vale native, who is also “What did featured in four American TV president of Level Vibes we call it?” he programs — the sitcom Full Promotions in Brooklyn and proceeded to House and The Tonight Show ask, as patrons with Jay Leno among them. The founder and organizer of the Vincy New Song Competition in roared back: calypsonian par excellence has New York. “He was better than “Marijuana”. also earned eight Road March the Calypso Monarch of Suddenly, titles. some, who Becket — who has performed Trinidad and Tobago. “Becket is an experienced were initially throughout the Caribbean, artiste,” Primus continued. “It hesitant to Canada, the United States, wine, sprang Spain, England and Columbia — was typical Becket with his classic ‘Teaser’.” into action made history in 2000 when he Four mothers were honoured with the became the first Caribbean at the gala, namely Guyanese monster 1990 artiste to perform at the US banker Bibi Zoriena Sankar, hit “Teaser” for Open Tennis Tournament in Grenadian community advocate which Becket, Flushing Meadows, Queens, Gloria Rennie-Murray; and a year later, New York. received the Additionally, he was listed as Jamaicans Simone HoSang, an entrepreneur, and Mavis Record of the one of the 17 Outstanding Cameron, a community Year and Best Caribbean Personalities of the advocate. Party Tune 20th Century.
Section of the audience at Mother’s Day Concert.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 7.
News
Vincy Mas to get wider Flow Marketing Manager. The officials — CDC and Columbus - signed a contract ANTHONY DENNIE, Marketing which will make events on this Coordinator of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), year’s carnival calendar available to cable television is anxious for July 4 this year. viewers in St. Vincent and the That’s when the Soca Monarch Grenadines, the Caribbean, competition will take place at and the international arena. Victoria Park, Kingstown, St. Dennie praised Flow for Vincent. their professional approach. Dennie did not conceal his Persons in St. Vincent and the enthusiasm at Victoria Park last Wednesday, during a CDC Grenadines will be able to see the Miss SVG Pageant for $35, Press Conference. Fantastic Friday for $15, He wants the world to see the energy that Soca Monarch Junior Calypso for $10, Steel and Glitter for $15, Miss generates during Vincy Mas, Carival for $35, Soca Monarch and he is keen to have the for $45, and Dimanche Gras wider world take in the Soca for $20. Monarch explosion. However, persons can get Dennie was among a head the entire package for $100. table that included: Dennis Dennie is overwhelmed with Ambrose, chairman of the the situation that Vincentian CDC; Christopher Gordon, artistes will get exposure Columbus Communications’ across the globe. With the Inc./Flow Country Manager; events being broadcast live and Corey Garnett, Flow by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
and in real time, Dennie sees it as exposure for the nation. “This is an excellent opportunity to market St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a destination,” Dennie outlined. The agreement considers the inherent copyright (Sitting from left): Christopher Gordon, Columbus issues, and Dennie made it Communications’ Inc./Flow Country Manager, and Dennis Ambrose, chairman of the CDC, into the signing of a new clear that discussions have been held with the Eastern Flow/CDC arrangement. Others pictured (from left): Ashford Wood – CDC Executive Director, Corey Garnett - Flow Caribbean Copyright Marketing Manager, and Anthony Dennie- CDC Marketing Organisation (ECCO). Coordinator. He used the occasion to promote the VC3 Television will see what this country has “come on board.” Channel which he stated has to offer, according to Garrett. Persons in the Caribbean become the “go to television Garret endorsed the can select Flow Vincy Mas station.” partnership with the CDC. He Events and choose what A television outlet, dubbed stressed that there will be programmes they want to look ‘One Caribbean Channel’, is “mutual benefits.” He urged at. scheduled to be here July 2 to subscribers not to wait until Country Manager 7. That was highlighted by the last minute to sign up for Christopher Gordon expressed Garrett at Wednesday’s the shows. function. happiness with the CDC link, There are also opportunities That Channel has a wide and he is looking forward to for advertisers, and Garrett reach, and millions of viewers urged potential investors to greater things in the future.
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8. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 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 Airport matters- Keeping an eye on St. Lucia ST. LUCIA’S GOVERNMENT announced last week its intention to have its Hewanorra International Airport managed independently, and that it is moving to passage a Bill through that country’s parliament to authorise same. The announcement stopped short of using the word ‘privately’ or to make any single and distinct use of any derivative of the word ‘private’, with respect to describing its plan. According to the statement, St. Lucia plans ‘to improve operations at the airport’, through a ‘public/private partnership’, and in so doing, avoid creating a situation of ‘unmanageable costs to the state’. As such therefore, the responsibilities of the existing airports authority in St. Lucia will be reduced ‘considerably, and will necessitate the redeployment of some current worker categories which will result in significant relief for the ‘public purse’. Additionally, the new partnership is expected to redound in improved service to the travelling public, and take the airport to a whole new operational level. This plan comes some eight years since the St. Lucian authorities commissioned and received a Master Plan for the redesign and development of Hewanorra International Airport, in response to the growing demands of the travel industry. This was done with the realization that the current terminal, which was rebuilt in 1993 to accommodate just over 315,000 passengers, was no longer adequate to support changing dynamics of the travel and tourism industry. In 2009, the Airport recorded passenger traffic in excess of 466,000 as well as 56,000 in transit passengers and over 10,000 aircraft movements. Unlike the Argyle airport here, the Hewanorra International Airport was not a project that began on ‘virgin’ soil. It was originally named Beane Army Airfield, and was used as a military airfield by the United States Army Air Forces (USAF) Sixth Air Force, and was activated in 1941. It was refurbished and converted into a commercial airport, and renamed Hewanorra, in 1993. St. Lucia, therefore, had a head start on the construction of an international airport, which the likes of Grenada and SVG did not enjoy. Notwithstanding, St. Lucia’s decision to enter into a public-private partnership to facilitate redevelopment and eventual management of its international airport, has to be instructive to the process here. Construction of the airport here is, to the best of our knowledge, not bounded by any known agreement with any other party or parties. Ours is entirely a state-driven project, with assistance in cash and in kind from a group referred to as ‘the coalition of the willing’, and purported ‘soft’ loans from both private banking and regional lending entities. We know of no plans to enter into any arrangement for private management of the operations of the airport, and, given what we can discern, it seems unlikely that this will be so. If this is the case, can we expect that the International Airport Development Corporation, given that the appropriate legislation would be put in place, would be allowed to carry on into being the responsible authority for the management of the operations of the airport, once commissioned? We would expect, if that is the case, that there will be some radical adjustment in who sits on what chairs in that ‘refurbished’ corporation. Maybe it is too late to even submit the argument. If the truth be told, it took St. Lucia the better part of 22 years to realize that its fledging state resources could not keep up with the demands of a dynamic industry like airport services. But, as we acknowledge that, we must not, even at this uncertain stage in our own airport development, encourage the impression that this is ours and ours to manage, till thy kingdom come. No one would fault the authorities here if they began to explore this alternative. Granted, it might be difficult to attract ‘buyers’ into the idea at this early stage, since ‘buyers’ prefer to see the wheels of earning power turning before budging, a la St. Lucia with its projections for increased traffic through Hewenorra. But this should not mean closing our eyes to the alternative and creating a sense of petty nationalism that will not serve us in good stead down the road, again a la St. Lucia. The government must, if it has not yet begun so to do, engage in collaboration with the private sector — home and abroad — towards deciding on an arrangement for managing our airport services in the future. The quicker we avoid future polemics the better, and it would not be a ‘bad’ idea for the government to begin to communicate with parliament towards appointing a private sector or private-public sector entity as operators/managers of our airport.
Laugh as therapy (reprinted from December 27th, 2002) “FRANK DA SILVA is so moved by the dangerous nonsense that is going on in political circles, that he believes that social commentators should forego the luxury of dealing with the outside world, and concentrate on the local problems that daily confront us. Frankly speaking, Frank does have a point, but there is also a case for practising what appears to be a little escapism, which I do by using laughter as therapy. Provided we do not reduce ourselves into becoming a laughing stock, it is sometimes necessary to see the funny side, gain strength, then confront the real problem head-on. That is why I am laughing off this year. Bright and early next year, we would delve into serious business, including the threats to Democracy issues by our Minister of National Security, via the office of the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions). But, for now, let us just try a little laughter which flows naturally from humour that Adrian Fraser has spotted to be one of my secret weapons. For the umpteenth time, my namesake, Corporal Kenneth John, has tied me up in a bundle of laughter. Last Friday, the corporal entered my chambers wreathed in smiles. His bonus of $800.00 had been paid over into my N.C.B account. It is nature’s way of telling Dr. Gonsalves that somehow, I was entitled to share in the Christmas Bonanza! As far back as 1983, I made off with Private Kenneth John’s stipend for his participation in the peace-keeping force in Grenada, following the execution of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop. At the time, I thought that it was Prime Minister Mitchell’s way of involving me in an activity to which I was totally opposed. Now Ralph has continued in the same vein, only to demonstrate that it is, indeed, a case of “the same old khaki pants”. A couple months ago, Ralph had held me up on the phone at home. In vain, I pleaded for release so as to attend an international cricket match at Arnos Vale. The comrade told me not to bother because he, too, would be showing up for the game. My response to Ralph was that I wanted to see the first ball bowled, and that I could be late owing to the traffic. My suggested solution was that he send me outrider Corporal Kenneth John to shepherd me to the playing field. He quickly hung up! At the field, Ralph visited me in the Michael Findlay pavilion and started to talk shop. Momentarily, he left to ask young Velox, Laverne’s son, to ease up on his blasting of a paper bugle, which created a nuisance. When he rejoined me, I asked Ralph if he became jealous of even the very young, as if he alone must be free to blow his own trumpet! He exploded in laughter. Ralph was to repeat that raucous outburst when he called as a matter of courtesy, to update me on the changes of personnel he had made to the P.S.C. My
reaction was deadpan. Then I allowed: “Ralph, I am really disappointed. I honestly, thought that now that the dust has settled after the March 2001elections, in a spirit of togetherness now, you had phoned to inform that you have decided to reappoint me as Chairman of the P.S.C”, story done! It is that maintenance of a “joking relationship” even with the high and mighty - a distinctly African Tribal phenomenon — which had endeared me to the rather subtle sense of humour of Dr. Adrian Fraser...” The matters exposed innocently by Otto’s letters are not simple but radiate over the conduct of our Governance. So, I had included a section of an article of an earlier “This Week” to demonstrate that the allegation that I treated my PSC’s stint as an attempt at fooling the public, at best as a sick joke befitting ridicule, there had been a much publicised event to install Blazer, at which the P.M. had praised me for honouring my promise to resign if the ULP were returned. It was quite possible that Otto was sold the story of my “begging” to be re-employed and without thinking, ran with it. When the ULP grinds on out their version of a take, you are left with a stark choice: either to cry or laugh, depending on your disposition. The whole take of the operation of the PSC during my stint was twisted and disfigured beyond all recognition. As a matter of interest, that PSC appointed as headmaster of the Boys Grammar School Mr. Winfield Williams of the deepest Labour Party dye, and similarly Miss Joye Browne as headmistress of the Girls High School with indelible Labour Stripes. So, too, Mrs. Aberdeen Browne who, with her husband Glenroy Browne, had been inveterate political “enemies” of the ruling NDP, landed the job of Principal Nursing Officer, at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. On the other hand, the two PSC members inherited from the NDP regime in 2001 were given marching orders at the first opportunity. In addition, Alexis Griffith ceased to perform as a JP the moment he was refused membership of the PSC. The NDP member of the Police Service Commission, Danto Wright, was fired as was his brother, Wendell, defrocked as a JP in which ULP made a clean sweep. Of course he had followed the most high-profile dismissal of Yvonne Francis-Gibson who had served our nation as Primary School headmistress, first head of the Woman’s Desk, President of the Militant SVUT and an NDP minister of Government. We shall continue in this vein in the near future with articles disembowelling the administration under the ULP.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 9.
Letters
Action for the advancement of women ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has been much maligned as the country with the highest incidence of rape and sexual violence against women, in the context of ratio to population size. The other side of the coin is that SVG is probably the smallest country, with the highest number of women having the boldness to report, but who meet stumbling blocks in passage of the reports through the justice system, to fair trial. Recent events on which I have previously commented, point to a wind of change blowing in favour of women and their families; a wind of change that brings the justice and parliamentary systems to centre stage. It is, therefore, a demonstration of political will that Parliament has approved a ground-breaking Domestic Violence Act, that is a tribute to the Beijing process (THE BEIIJING PLATFORM FOR ACTION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN), which is currently being reviewed, as the 20th Anniversary approaches in September, 2015. This landmark Act will have an impact on other Caribbean countries. Trinidad and Tobago is reviewing its 1999 Domestic Violence Act and, in arguing for change, one Social Worker said, “Within the 2012 to 2013 period, a Court in one magisterial district in North Trinidad handled 17,748 domestic violence cases. Keep in mind this is only one Court”. The women’s movements have long called for more levels of support in eliminating violence against women. Here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, let us applaud these Champions and Pillars of Support who have emerged from the Justice and Parliamentary systems. This Law has to move from paper to implementation on the ground. As a Community Educator, I repeat what I have often advocated” “Let us mobilise the critical mass of support from schools, churches, NGOs, youth clubs, associations and other groups in the fight against violence against women, to confront the very real problem, instead of ignoring it or blaming the victim.” Let us obtain copies of this legislation and inform and educate the population towards Zero Tolerance for this shameful crime of Domestic Violence. Development Agencies would do well to not only recognize the critical role of the NGOs, but also the need to strengthen them to function as pillars of development. The Editorial of the Vincentian Newspaper of 8th May is to be commended for the brilliant and insightful analysis of what is needed as we go forward. Indeed the achievement of the Twelve Critical areas of Concern in the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women, will ensure women’s economic sustainability. The Media has a critical role to play in the transformation we are seeking. Nelcia Robinson Coordinator Committee for the Development of Women (CDW)
‘New rules’ for all ONCE UPON A TIME, one needed all sorts of documentation to clear a vehicle through Customs. Now that one does not, you will be delighted to see my new Lamborghini on the streets of St. Vincent shortly. The ruts and holes in the street offer a hazard to the undercarriage, but that’s alright—I’ll just bring in another new one now that the Customs and tariffs are so accommodating. My drug
There’s a dent on the back bumper and a scrap on the door handle. Hey, this car is barely worth what I’m declaring. Just ask my friend at Customs–he’s had a similar situation. Be nice to me, and I’ll give you ride, which is more than my friend will do for you! Find my Swiss Account, if you can! Hipple
Abortion is murder WHY DO YOU no longer consider an innocent baby crying in the mother’s womb and is tortured in the act of abortion, an act of immense horror? Is it because YaHuveh can hear their silent scream? Our ‘babies’ (young ladies and girls) are getting pregnant and are told it’s alright to get an abortion. They are told not to give any thought for the innocent child. They are not taught that sexual promiscuity is a sin that leads to corruption of the soul. Not one thought is given to the innocent baby as it lies in the mother’s womb. Though the mother may be a youngster herself, she sins against
Almighty YaHuveh (God) and she sins against her unborn baby that only wanted to be born. There is no difference between a gun used for murder and a doctor used for abortion. It is all murder in YaHuveh’s (God) eyes. The mother also sins against her body, soul and spirit. Exodus 20:13: ‘You shall not murder’. Matthew 21: ‘Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whoever shall, shall be in danger of the Judgment.’ J Bernard
Politicians, ‘Deal with the issues’ THERE IS no doubt that the elections campaign has swung into full gear. The NDP came out in full force last Saturday at Sion Hill, and I bet you, it won’t be long before the ULP does the same thing. We have been, every elections in my lifetime, calling for the parties to deal with the issues and forget about the gutter politics. It might sound like the record is stuck, but I must make the same appeal again. I appeal to the politicians of this country to turn a new leaf and take the high ground, and focus on issues rather than personalities. You know, we have been talking about how
Take action now MANY OF US voted for the Unity Labour Party (ULP) in the 2010 general elections, mainly because of our hardworking Prime Minister. Generally speaking, we are pleased with developments that our party has brought to SVG. But while we say that, we must also say that we, the foot soldiers, have been having some problems dealing with how our party is not punishing those who do wrong. We have to defend things like how certain high-ranking party people get
profits make this no problem (not to mention my political connections). Hey, it’s the new rules: what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. I may have paid more than US$200,000 for this vehicle, but I am comfortable in declaring a “sight bill” for EC$ 25,000. What??? You want paperwork for invoices, freight, etc.– not required. Listen up. There are new rules.
transferred instead of being punished when they do wrong. The ULP is the best thing that happened to us in a long time, but it could well be destroying itself with some of its actions. I appeal to our leader to rid himself of all those whose behaviour can bring the party down, before it is too late. Johnny – ULP all the way
the society is breaking down, and how law and order and respect for others have gone through the door. Well, I think, we have to begin to address this slide by making sure that our politicians, our leaders, begin to change their ways. Their supporters will behave in a manner that the politicians
encourage; so it is the responsibility of the politicians, especially the leaders of the parties, to set the example. And by the way, we pray that the elections campaign would be free of all violence. Joseph
Islamic militant state group PLEASE PERMIT a space in your column to express my views about the radical Islamic Militant State Group, ISIS. We, as citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, will not tolerate any nonsense from the radical Islamic Militant State Group, better known as ISIS. ISIS is currently terrorizing the world with an army of merciless mercenaries that are so barbaric. They are constantly murdering helpless persons, either by shooting, hacking, or beheading them. When this radical Islamic Militant State Group hacked into our government website, they actually involved themselves in a very serious crime. We have to develop a good system, in order to protect our national borders, from any illegal entry of these barbaric people. Vincentians must encourage our children to stay away from this radical group, because the only way out, when anyone collaborates with them, seems to be death. Everton Mercury
* Who in the NDP is carrying a whole pile of skeletons? * Why are persons who know, asking if the 2015 Miss SVG Contestants have any sensible fashion coordinators? Shouldn’t this be a requirement at every appearance for lifting the standard of the show? * Is it true that there is only one Rural Carnival that will have a calypso competition this year? What is the Calypsonians Association’s take on this? What does this say about calypso’s place in our carnival? * How many users of the old Karib Cable box are having ongoing problems with their service? Is this a way of phasing out the old box for the new? *Why is it that persons who might be interested in buying vehicles once owned by KFC and St. Clair Investments, must call a foreign number to arrange viewing? How come the Receiver couldn’t appoint a local representative? Are there no reputable ‘receivers’ in SVG? * When will the relevant authorities look into repairing those nonfunctioning street lights between the Medical College and the Baptist Church in Prospect, that have been out of order for well over a week?
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10. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
We must remember not to forget The issue THE WORDS “we must remember not to forget” are etched in the annals of history, in reference to various acts of cruelty, indifference and just poor oldfashioned evil, perpetuated against people. Many persons who have experienced these acts, use these words to urge their supporters and friends, to always focus on the situation in question, as a means of ensuring that they never experience this evil again. For example, the Jewish people use these words to ensure that they do not forget the evil that was perpetuated on them, during the holocaust years. Similarly, the African National Congress used these words in remembrance of the apartheid system that inflicted so much evil and suffering, on the black people of Southern Africa. It was Senator Jomo Thomas, during his brief address at the last ULP convention, who used these words as a caution to all members and supporters of the ULP, to galvanize them into protecting the enormous and impressive gains of the ULP administration, in its fourteen years in government. And so these words by Senator Thomas represent a call to action for the members and supporters of the ULP, in preparation for the campaign leading up to the next general election in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s also a way to channel the enormous energy from the convention to create a positive forward movement, as the ULP reaches out to new voters who are about to cast their ballots for the first time.
And if our voters remember not to forget, they will remember that it was the NDP who was responsible for this situation. They will then try to determine if there is anything in the current NDP, including the absence of a vision and a philosophy, and the character of the persons in that party now vying for office, that will provide any comfort. And they will come to the conclusion that to vote for the NDP, will be a backward step, and will be a reversal of all the impressive things that the country has achieved since 2001.
Defending the gains
Simply put, because we cannot forget what the ULP accomplished over the last fourteen years, then we must always defend the socio economic gains of the country. The ULP has corrected all the evils of the NDP period of governance, and Vincentians do not want a return to that era. So we will defend the gains, because we don’t want a reversal of the education revolution, where our children will encounter difficulties seeking higher education. We do not want a reversal of the housing revolution where Vincentians are getting middle, low and no-income dwelling units. We do not want a reversal of the strategy where the ULP is turning dead capital into live capital. And we do not want a What to remember reversal of the construction work on the international airport project at As Senator Jomo Thomas says, we Argyle, no matter what Eustace and must remember not to forget the the NDP say. economic and social mess that the There is nothing that the NDP has ULP met, when the party assumed put forward, to give us any comfort, office in 2001. The state machinery that they will do a better job than the was in shambles; the country was on ULP. There is no development the blacklist of several international strategy, no vision, and no philosophy, organizations; civil servants were and certainly no economic plan for us unhappy with their salaries and general working conditions; there was to peruse. It was Sir James Mitchell, in an interview on BOOM fm, who a shortage of nurses; the Ottley Hall called on the NDP to reveal their project was like a millstone around plan, after they claimed that they our necks, and the banana industry were going to do so much for the was in a downward spiral. banana industry. Vincentians have Added to this list of woes was the been awaiting such a plan since 2012, fact that we owed money to several regional institutions, uncluding the but alas, it cannot be produced by the UWI, a situation that was affecting NDP. our students. Worst of all, our education system was in a mess, with Blind trust our students on a shift system here and there, and with only 39 percent of The fact of the matter is that the our twelve-year-old children, getting NDP is asking Vincentians to put an opportunity to attend secondary their blind trust, their blind faith, in schools. the leadership of Arnhim Eustace. And all this and more, while the The NDP is saying, come sail with us, NDP, the party in power at the time, but we will not reveal our destination boasted a surplus, while the people of until our ship has sailed. Vincentians St.Vincent and the Grenadines will reject this suggestion out of hand, suffered. Poverty was at an all time when the Comrade rings the bell. high, and indigent poverty worse, We will always remember not to even by the survey conducted by the forget the state of the country in 2001, NDP itself. Vincentians were squatting indiscriminately all over the and we will always remember not to forget the outstanding work of the country, and NDP cronies were buying State lands, particularly those ULP administration, under the astute and visionary leadership of Dr. Ralph in the Grenadines. We must Gonsalves, and we will cast our votes remember not to forget these evils; this messy situation that the ULP for the STAR, to give the ULP a found when it arrived in office in fourth term in office, to continue its 2001. outstanding work.
Change is coming THOUSANDS OF VINCENTIANS converged at Sion Hill on Saturday 9th May, 2015, in support of the New Democratic Party (NDP) as it kicked off its 2015 elections campaign. The mammoth crowd has sent shock waves, and a strong message to the Unity Labour Party (ULP) that its days are numbered; that the NDP will form the next government in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Change is coming! It was felt, and it was echoed by everyone who attended the rally. At the rally, the Honourable Arnhim Eustace and other members of his team made presentations on a number of programmes to be implemented in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, health, information technology, sports, culture, the economy and education. They all gave the assurance that the NDP will implement them when it takes the reins of government. These programmes will create economic and social development for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Also in his address, Honourable Arnhim Eustace listed several businesses that have closed and/or down sized over the years, because of the failed economy and the mismanagement of the finances of this country, by the ULP administration. The businesses that have been closed are: Discovery Works, Cinerama, Gourmet Supermarket, KFC, Pizza Hut, Four call centers, Timeout café, X-Cape, Ju-C, Lime N Pub, Pizza Party, Chicken Roost, Tony’s Pizza, Touch of Class Boutique, Mandarin Chinese Restaurant, Mario’s Pizza, Brydens, Great Works Depot, Highway Trading, Val-U Electrical, Goodluck Family Store, Haba Store, Gebelle’s Store, City Express, Fashion Collection, Simply Chique, Church’s Chicken, Clucker’s Chicken, Bigger Biggs, Marcus Defreitas, Mother Care, Nice Foods, D’s Services, Golden Apple Restaurant, The Bounty, Bullock Supermarket, Tinkerbell Boutique, Pope Block-making Plant, Norma Pemberton Wholesale Chicken, many small shops nationwide and many banana farmers. Those that have been down sized include Alnet Supermarket, Young Island resort, CNR Enterprises, Voyager/Grand Bazaar, Bickles, Pennywise, Erica’s Country Style, and R. N. Eustace and Sons. And there are many small shops and banana farms that have fallen into one of the above categories. Moreover, one of the most encouraging signs at the rally was the massive turnout of the youths. It was estimated that about 60% percent of those in attendance were young people. The party has been attracting a tremendous number of young people in recent years, because the NDP offers hope to them. Presently, they are hopeless under this vindictive ULP regime. They are unemployed, frustrated, and are called lazy by the members of the ULP. The NDP has the social and economic programmes and policies that will benefit and assist the youths in their development. They, too, are crying for the change, and they will make the change. The NDP will do a better job in managing the finances of this country. It will rebuild St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and govern the country in the interest of all Vincentians. That’s the solemn pledge of the Hon. Arnhim Eustace, president of the NDP. Excerpt from Nick Francis’ presentation, President Young Dems “Tonight, as the president of the NDP Young Democrats, I am the first speaker on this platform, not as a decoration or a token, but rather as evidence of the New Democratic Party’s investment in the development of youth in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. So this evening, we rise above rhetoric, we rise above name
calling, we rise above character assassinations and the politics of the gutter so that we can focus on substance and the policies, which will propel our generation into the 21st century. The cry of the youth in our country tonight is for meaningful employment. The NDP hears your cry. We understand that no jobs means an increase in crime and violence and the sexual exploitation of our young people. We recognize that gaining financial independence is an important transition and development stage for our youth. That’s why the NDP promises to provide meaningful employment for at least one person in every household across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Since young people are the movers and shakers in this digital world, our bold IT agenda will tap into this resource, laying the foundation for job creation in this sector, through ITbased business development and youth entrepreneurship. In addition, the NDP will improve existing youth employment programmes by increasing monthly stipends, and providing incentives to investors towards providing long term employment for programme participants. Youth also have a place in agriculture, a viable pathway to a sustainable livelihood. An NDP government will ensure that agriculture is youth friendly, advancing the sector through technology, diversification, and solidifying regional and international markets for agricultural produce. Providing sports scholarships, investing in sports infrastructure, sports medicine and sports tourism will give our young people the opportunity to excel, and continue to represent our country on the regional and international stage in multiple sporting disciplines. We must be mindful that all these initiatives aimed at improving the standard of living for our young people rest on a strong economy. The ULP has failed miserably to effectively manage the economy of our country, and every day we see the manifestations of this mismanagement as our young people struggle to survive. Is this the economic takeoff that we were promised? I am confident that the Hon. Arnhim Eustace is the right man, at the right time, to restore prosperity to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I am confident in the NDP Leadership Team and our ability to achieve growth in every sector, and to make things better for our country and our people. The NDP believes in giving youth a voice, and to facilitate that voice in decision making by ensuring that young people are appointed to statutory bodies, so that we can govern the affairs of our country together. Tonight, young people are also adversely affected by issues which transcend age. A discussion on healthcare is a depressing one. Long waiting hours, shortage of basic medicine and medical equipment, and a population dying because they simply cannot afford the costs of diagnostics and surgery. Young people are losing their limbs. We have a crisis in our country, and the ULP, for over 14 years, has been sitting on a National Health Insurance Plan, developed by the NDP, to make health care affordable and make access to life saving surgery possible. Is that genuine care and concern for the people? Is that love?”
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 11.
Views
Suffering: Its lessons
“Suffering often helps us to redirect our focus. It shifts our thinking from immediate circumstances so we can listen to God concerning His work in our lives. Life as usual is replaced by a spiritual schoolroom.” — Dennis Fisher, Senior Research Editor at Our when we seem to be “suffering to the max”? Thank God for those friends, Daily Bread. relatives, and associates. The IT WOULD BE MOST INTERESTING if we suffering would have created an opportunity for us to know, beyond had the capability to assess the thoughts that went through the minds of the shadow of doubt, which individuals really care for our all of our readers as they read the wellbeing. Had it not been for the heading of this week’s column – suffering, we may have proceeded “Suffering: Its Lessons”. Some individuals may have initially concluded along life’s paths taking them for granted, and possibly not ever that they are not interested in reading appreciating their friendship. this article. They may have concluded It is useful to look at the “flip side” that they need to read something uplifting, and concluded that an article of the preceding scenario though — to consider how we react when we on suffering would not fit the bill. observe someone going through their Others may have concentrated on the very last word in the title, and pondered bout of “deep down in the valley experiences”. Sometimes we can whether there are really lessons that become so consumed with our suffering can teach us. Their thoughts may have even raced along to conclude challenges and situations, that we miss out on the life lessons and that, if that were the case, they would blessings that we can obtain by rather not learn those lessons at all. They prefer to avoid suffering at all cost. lending a helping hand to someone in These are normal reactions. We seem need — someone who is suffering from to be wired to seek to avoid pain and one of life’s varied challenges and suffering. However, even though that is setbacks. Unfortunately, many of us the case, we are assured that pain and seek to rationalise our lack of suffering are natural (normal) aspects of demonstrating concern and empathy life. As surely as we were designed with by wrongfully concluding that, what a nervous system that allows us to someone else is going through is detect pain in its various forms, we can “none of our business”. We miss out be assured that circumstances will on the opportunity to be blessed by emerge to remind us that we will being a blessing. We lose the periodically suffer physical, spiritual, privilege of getting by giving! We and emotional setbacks. It, therefore, remain small-minded when life has behoves us to develop coping provided a growth opportunity for us mechanisms and, at the same time, look to show how much we care. And out for the lessons that suffering will sometimes that expression of care teach. may only require that we lend a The sufferings could take a variety listening ear. We know how of forms. They may be wrapped in comforting it is when we are bundles that are physical. For traumatised and can find someone example, the grief may be the result just to listen. It makes a tremendous of some physical trauma, as in the difference to us … and it will make a case of an accident or disease. But it great difference to them. There are so can also be external to the body, as is many lessons that we could learn the case with a loss of job, divorce, from helping someone to cope with abandonment, unemployment, and so their suffering. on. Be assured that the sufferings Suffering, in all of its forms, also that result from the situations has a way of drawing us closer to our external to the body are often just as Maker. Yes, in some cases, persons traumatic as those that invade our may react by pointing a finger at God physical bodies. However, regardless and blaming Him for allowing the of the source of the pain and particular situation to exist. I have suffering, there are multiple lessons been there. But there is folly in such that can be learnt. Unfortunately, we an approach. Those situations should often miss out on those lessons as we teach us the importance of drawing are going through the fiery trials. closer to Him … not going farther Sometimes it requires someone from away from Him. There is comfort and the outside to show us the blessings security when, in our deepest pain that emerge from those ashes. On and sorry, we seek His comfort and other occasions, we only really fully provision. On such occasions, He appreciate them long after the healing teaches us some invaluable lessons has taken place. However, having about life and living. It happens gone through the process, we then every time. Yes, I have been there become much better equipped to too. Even when we do not understand empathise with those who share or appreciate the particular trial, we similar mishaps. Our painful are better able to cope when we learn experiences can be used to ease another’s trauma, and assist them in to trust Him as he takes us through it. Our faith can be renewed. Our coping with their unfortunate thankfulness can be magnified … circumstance. even through the suffering. We can Suffering will often teach us grow from the loss … regardless of the priceless lessons about loyalty and friendships. Who are the individuals intensity of the trauma. Yes, as absurd as it may seem, sufferings can in your life who empathise with us when we are going through our trials teach us many useful life lessons, and create tremendous opportunities for and testing? Who are the ones who growth. will visit or send an e-mail to lift our spirits? Who are the ones to bring a Send comments, criticisms & fruit basket or some groceries when suggestions to you seem to be at your lowest end? julesferdinand@gmail.com Who are the ones to reach out to us
Memories inspire the future ‘THE FUTURE IS NOTHING if we don’t remember.” Aime Cesaire, father of negritude thought. Last Sunday, I was present in Guadeloupe and witnessed the opening of the Memorial ACTe, the largest slavery Museum in the world. People from far and wide, including the Presidents of France, Kenya and Mali, along with Prime Ministers Freundel Stuart of Barbados and Ralph Gonsalves, were on hand to witness the opening of this historically significant memorial. The permanent exhibition is organized in modules called ‘islands’. There are 6 ‘archipelagoes’ and 37 ‘islands.’ For example, island 2 depicts Black people destinies; island 6, a panorama of slavery; island 7 points to doubts in the west regarding slavery, and island 22 notes the complicity of the church in slavery. Archipelago 1 deals with the ‘discovery’ of the Americas by Europeans, to the arrival of the first black people in the Caribbean; archipelago 2 depicts slavery and the slave trade; archipelago 3 shows the daily life of a slave on the plantation; Archipelago 4 relates the history that led to the abolition of slavery in the Americas; archipelago 5 chronicles the efforts of former enslaved to reconstruct their lives, and the ways in which racial barriers prevented such integration and development; and archipelago 6 looks at what obtains today, by looking back at the past, so that humanity can envisage a society that rejects all forms of enslavement. President Hollande of France created a big stir, and renewed the hope of many, when he publicly committed to right the historical wrong by repaying Haiti the millions it paid to France in what has been described as a ‘Freedom Tax.’ Haiti was France’s most profitable colony before a successful independence revolution in 1804. Following the revolution, an international embargo, enforced by French warships, was imposed on Haiti. To ease the embargo, Haiti was forced in 1825 to pay France an “independence debt” of 150m gold francs to compensate colonists for lost land and slaves. Although the indemnity was later reduced to 90m gold coins, the debt crippled Haiti. The nation did not finish paying off the debt to French and American banks until 1947. The 90 million French Francs paid by Haiti is estimated to have a current value of about $22 million. Aides to President Hollande scrambled to clarify his statement on reparations for Haiti, saying he meant that he was committed to repay a ‘moral debt’ rather than to pay financial reparations. President Hollande, speaking at an official ceremony in Haiti on Tuesday, said “We can’t change history, but we can change the future…There is a moral debt that exists. You’re not asking for aid, you want development. You’re not asking for welfare, you want investment.” He committed France to aid Haiti in developing its educational system, but seemed to back away from the explicit commitment to reparations for Haiti he announced in Guadeloupe two days earlier.
It must be remembered that former President of Haiti Jean Claude Aristide, made a demand for reparations from France in 2003, then estimating the debt at about US $20 billion. Less than a year after the announcement, President Aristide was overthrown in a French and US supported military coup and exiled. Over the years, French administrations have acknowledged the historical wrong of slavery in Haiti and other former colonies. In 2001, the French government recognized slavery and the slave trade as a crime against humanity. But French leaders, like those of other former colonial powers, consistently have dismissed assertions that they need to pay any kind of financial reparations. During his speech Tuesday, which many found exceedingly disappointing, Haitian President Martelly described the indemnity Haiti was forced to pay as a “grand injustice,” but added that “no reparation can change what happened years ago.” Leaders like Martelly grossly understand the historic times within which they govern. They utterly misrepresent the people’s desires for relief and development. No reparationist or anyone with basic common sense has ever argued that reparations can change what has happened in the past. But by analogy, an award in a personal injury claim cannot compensate for the loss of an eye or limb, or even death. However, this fact is not a reason to argue that there should be no compensation for the aggrieved victim. When President Martelly and others pose the question as they do, they actually stoke the fires of those who have stiff-neckedly refused to even consider reparations for their wrong deeds during slavery and the slave trade. President Hollande was directly on point in 2013 when he said France’s “debt” to Africa “cannot be the subject of a transaction.” But he is dead wrong if he and anyone else believe that the enormity of the death means that nothing should ever be repaid. Only those who lack real understanding of history, fail to appreciate that a big reason why Haiti is in such bad conditions relating to development and widespread suffering, is because of slavery, and the fact that it was forced to pay France for its freedom in much the same way as slave owners in the English colonies were paid, while the enslaved Africans were thrown off the plantations without a cent following their emancipation. And this is why the leaders of CARICOM’s historic call to seek compensation from Britain, France and the Netherlands for the lingering legacy of the Atlantic slave trade and slavery, should be commended and supported. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com
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12. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Revenue creation needed to give our people jobs and prosperity THE ULP REGIME has wasted over one billion dollars on dead projects that have brought no financial return, such as the jail and Argyle airport. Revenue creation is needed in SVG to create a strong economy and bring prosperity to our people. We have to discard the ULP regime’s economic model of begging and borrowing, as this has forced many of our people to live in poverty and squalor, created high levels of unemployment and crime, created a very low level of sales for businesses and a wage freeze for government workers, and stopped virtually all money from circulating in the country. A Green government will adopt the Singapore model for sustainable development and wealth creation, and build an export-orientated economy that will bring revenue to our country. Revenue creation and high-quality university education will be the cornerstone for our development. The whole country should not have to suffer, just because of one person’s arrogance and financial and economic incompetence. A Green government will build a
science and technology university, and offer free education from pre-school to university. Having a highly qualified population will attract much foreign investment to SVG, like in Singapore, and create thousands of new jobs. The SVG university will create revenue by charging foreign students who attend the university. A Green government will build a billion-dollar, tuna fishing industry and a fish processing and canning factory. We will cut ties with Taiwan, as they are creaming-off billions of dollars from the use of SVG’s deep sea tuna fishing licence. A Green government will abolish the tax exemptions given to the superrich of Mustique and Canouan, and recoup the tax that they should have paid. It is unfair that the super-rich do not pay tax, yet the poor and everyone else have to. A Green government will build factories for agro-processing to produce flour, baby food, fruit juices, tea bags and other goods for export and local consumption. Using import substitution will create thousands of
new jobs in SVG, and substantially reduce the amount of revenue lost abroad by importing so much food. We will build a marketing corporation in Marriaqua to provide a guaranteed market to farmers for their produce. To get money circulating around the country and reduce the financial burdens upon households and businesses, a Green government will abolish VAT, abolish the fuel surcharge and substantially reduce electricity prices by phasing out oilgenerated electricity, and producing electricity more cheaply from renewable energy, such as solar, wind and hydro. A Green government will develop Green industries, as this will create revenue and thousands of new jobs. In 2013, the United Kingdom’s renewables sector employed 250,000 people and was worth £33bn a year to the UK economy. The global Green market is projected to reach £4 trillion by the end of 2015, as economies around the world invest in Green technologies. A Green government will help SVG’s small businesses get a slice
of this big Green pie. The tide has turned against the ULP regime’s ignorant economic model of begging and borrowing. All around the country, the evidence shows that this model of begging and borrowing is killing our economy and having a devastatingly, negative impact on our people. At the next election, voters have to ask themselves who they trust to be able to kick-start the economy, create thousands of new jobs, get money circulating around the country and end the wage freeze imposed on many government workers. The ULP regime has been a financial and economic failure. Vote Green Party for an economic model that creates revenue and jobs. SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 13.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 15.
14. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Precious Abraham
Melicia Antoine
Vickeich Charles
Miss French Verandah
Miss Metrocint General Insurance Co. Ltd.
Miss Lotto
Chantal Dells
De Yonte Mayers
Miss Agricultural Input Warehouse
Miss Mustique Company Ltd.
Desha Murray Murra Miss Pl M Play F Four
DATTE OF BIRTH: DATE BIRTH: July 4th 1995.
DATTE OF BIRTH: DATE BIRTH: April 8, 1993. B
DATTE OF BIRTH: DATE BIRTH: June 6, 1994.
DATE DATE T OF O BIRTH: BIRTH: August August 16, 1994.
DATE DATE T OF BIRTH: BIRTH: Mar March ch 1, 1996.
DATTE OF BIRTH: DATE BIRTH: July 28, 1995.
RE RESIDENCE: SIDENCE: Ne New w Mon Montrose trose
RESIDENCE: Cla RESIDENCE: Clare re Valley Valley
RESIDENCE: RE SIDENCE: Spring Villa Village ge
RE SIDENCE: V RESIDENCE: Vermont ermont
RESIDENCE: RESIDENCE: Victoria Victoria Villa Village ge
RESIDENCE: &ŝƚnj ,ƵŐŚĞƐ RE SIDENCE: &ŝƚnj ,ƵŐŚĞƐ
SCHOOLIN SCHOOLING: G: * St Joseph’ Joseph’ss Con Convent vent Kings Kingstown town
SCHOOLIN SCHOOLING: G: * Bethel Bethel High School * St Joseph’s Joseph’s Con Convent vent Kings Kingstown town * SVG SVG Communi Community ty College: College: Division Division of dĞĐŚŶŝĐĂů ĂŶĚ sŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů ĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͘ dĞĐŚŶŝĐĂů ĂŶĚ sŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů ĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͘
SCHOOLING: SCHOOLIN G: * SSVG VG Communi Community ty Col College: lege: Division Division of Arts, Sciences and Ge General Studiess neral Studie
SCHOOLIN SCHOOLING: G: SSVG VG Communi Community ty College, College, Division Division of Arts, Sciences and General General Studie Studies. s.
SCHOOLING: SCHOOLING: SVG SVG Community Community Col College, lege, Divis Division ion of Arts, Sciences and General General Studie Studiess
QUALIFICATION: QU ALIFICA ATION: T Associa Associate te Degr Degree ee in P aralegal Studies Paralegal Studies
QU ALIFICA QUALIFICATIONS: ATIONS: T ' ƌĂĚƵĂƚĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ,ƵŵĂŶŝƟĞƐ 'ƌĂĚƵĂƚĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ,ƵŵĂŶŝƟĞƐ
EMPLOYMENT: EMPLOYMENT: Supervisor Supervisor at at the Chill Spot Bar and Grill.
SCHOOLING: SCHOOLIN G: Community SSVG VG Communi College: ty Col Division lege: Divis ion of Arts, Sciences and Ge General Studiess of the neral Studie ^^ƚ sŝŶĐĞŶƚ ; W ƋƵĂůŝĮĐĂƟŽŶƐ ŝŶ >Ăǁ͕ ƚ sŝŶĐĞŶƚ ; W ƋƵĂůŝĮĐĂƟŽŶƐ ŝŶ >Ăǁ͕ ^^ŽĐŝŽůŽŐLJ ĂŶĚ ŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶ ^ƚƵĚŝĞƐͿ ŽĐŝŽůŽŐLJ ĂŶĚ ŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶ ^ƚƵĚŝĞƐͿ
EMPL EMPLOYMENT: OYMENT: Clerk Clerk,, A Agricultural gricultural Input W Warehouse arehouse Ltd., Ltd., Kingstown. Kingstown.
ATTRIBUTES: A TTRIBUTES: ͚͚hŶŝƋƵĞůLJ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƟŶŐ͕͛ ƉĂƐƐŝŽŶĂƚĞ ĂďŽƵƚ hŶŝƋƵĞůLJ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƟŶŐ ͕͛ ƉĂƐƐŝŽŶĂƚĞ ĂďŽƵƚ literacy literacy and the dis advantaged. disadvantaged.
ATTRIBUTES: A TTRIBUTES: ddĂůĞŶƚĞĚ͕ ĨƵŶͲĮůůĞĚ͘ ĂůĞŶƚĞĚ͕ ĨƵŶͲĮůůĞĚ͘
PASTIMES: P A TIMES: AS Socialising, Socia eading, danci lising, rreading, ng, music, and dancing, eexercising. xercising.
* SSVG VG Communi Community ty Col College: lege: Division Division of Arts, Sciences and Ge General neral Studies Studies EMPL EMPLOYMENT: OYMENT: Hostess at Hostess at The French French V Verandah erandah RestauRestaurrant ant ATTRIBUTES: ATTRIBUTES: Quick learner, learnerr, eexcellent xcellent interpersonal interpersonal skills PAS PASTIMES: A TIMES: Modelling,, lilistening Modelling stening tto o music, and ĚĞďĂƟŶŐ Ě ĞďĂƟŶŐ INFLUENCES: IN FLUENCES: Her ffather ather ASPIRATIONS: ASPIRATIONS: T To pursue To pursue a le legal gal career career WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: PAGEANT: have “I ha always ve alw been ays bee interested n in terested in Mi ss Miss from SSVG VG fr om since I w was as small. Also m myy mother en entered tered be before, fore, so she has als o also given giv en me the support and the boos boostt to to ffollow ollow in her ffootsteps, ootsteps, and I ha ve also have eentered ntered tw two pageants o pag eants be before, fore, so I am a pageant pag eant girl. girl.””
QUALIFICATION: QU ALIFICA ATION: T ƉƉůŝĞĚ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞ ĞŐƌĞĞ ŝŶ ĐĐŽƵŶƟŶŐ ƉƉůŝĞĚ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞ ĞŐƌĞĞ ŝŶ ĐĐŽƵŶƟŶŐ A ATTRIBUTES: TTRIBUTES: ƚŚůĞƟĐ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĂŶƚ ĂŶĚ ǀĞƌƐĂƟůĞ ƚŚůĞƟĐ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĂŶƚ ĂŶĚ ǀĞƌƐĂƟůĞ PASTIMES: P ASTIMES: FFashion, ashion, modelling modelling,, and hair-styling hair-styling ACHIEVEMENTS: A CHIEVEMENTS: Winner of Ms South Leeward Leeward Pageant Pageant and Ms Be Bequia quia Independence INFLUENCES: Her grandparents INFLUENCES: grandparents ASPIRATIO ASPIRATIONS: TTIONS: To pursue To pursue studies studies in Management Management ^ƚƵĚŝĞƐ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ DĂƌŬĞƚ^ƚƵĚŝĞƐ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ DĂƌŬĞƚing. WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: P AGEANT: ͞ ŌĞƌ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŵLJ ǀĞƌLJ ĮƌƐƚ ƉĂŐĞĂŶƚ͕ ͞ ŌĞƌ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ŵLJ ǀĞƌLJ ĮƌƐƚ ƉĂŐĞĂŶƚ͕ which is Mis Misss South Leeward, Leeward, I thought thought I ŚĂĚ ƚŚĞ ƉŽƚĞŶƟĂů͕ ĂŶĚ / ǁĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŶĞdžƚ Ś ĂĚ ƚŚĞ ƉŽƚĞŶƟĂů͕ ĂŶĚ / ǁĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ŶĞdžƚ sstep, tep, whi which ch is Miss SSVG.” VG.”
EMPL EMPLOYMENT: OYMENT: Leg Legal al Clerk Clerk,, Carlos Jame Jamess La Law Chambers w Cha mbers ATTRIBUTES: ATTRIBUTES: God-fearing, Godfearing, friendly, friendlyy, humble humble.. h PASTIMES: P A TIMES: AS R eading, ffashion Reading, ashion designi designing, ng, netball, netball, and modelling. IN FLUENCES: Her mother INFLUENCES: ASPIRATIONS: ASPIRATTIONS: Pursuing Pur suing Bachelor of Law Law degree. degree. WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: PAGEANT: ͞ ůǁĂLJƐ ǁĂŶƚĞĚ ƚŽ ͕ ĨƌŽŵ Ă ůŝƩůĞ Őŝƌů͘͟ ͞ ůǁĂLJƐ ǁĂŶƚĞĚ ƚŽ ͕ ĨƌŽŵ Ă ůŝƩůĞ Őŝƌů͘͟ She w ould kkeep eep up tto would o da date te with the sho w and ““each show each yyear ear I w would choosee ould choos m avourite ccontestant myy ffavourite ontestant and I wanted wanted to to be so much lik e them. … Als like Also o the idea of winning a schola rship. I would scholarship. would love love to to further m tudies.” myy sstudies.”
P A TIMES: R PASTIMES: AS Reading eading and the Arts
ASPIRATIONS: ASPIRATTIONS: ddŽ ƐƚƵĚLJ ŶŐůŝƐŚ >ŝƚĞƌĂƚƵƌĞ ĂŶĚ ^ƉĂŶŝƐŚ Ž ƐƚƵĚLJ ŶŐůŝƐŚ >ŝƚĞƌĂƚƵƌĞ ĂŶĚ ^ƉĂŶŝƐŚ ttowards owards bec becoming oming an educator. educatorr. WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: PAGEANT: ^^ŚĞ ǁĂƐ ŵŽƟǀĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ĞŶƚĞƌ ďĞĐĂƵƐĞ ƐŚĞ ŚĞ ǁĂƐ ŵŽƟǀĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ĞŶƚĞƌ ďĞĐĂƵƐĞ ƐŚĞ wants w ants tto o win the scholarship, scholarship, to to prepare prepare herself her self to to become become an ambassador tto o her ccountry ountry and “a “a role role model to to young young ladies.”” ladies.
ASPIR ASPIRATIONS: ATIONS: T A ccareer areer in social social work work or law law WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: PAGEANT: ŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞĚ ƚŽ ĞŶƚĞƌ ďLJ ŚĞƌ ĞŝŐŚƚ ŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞĚ ƚŽ ĞŶƚĞƌ ďLJ ŚĞƌ ĞŝŐŚƚ brothers br others and the young young ladies in her ĐĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŽīĞƌ ŽĨ Ă ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚLJ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ŽīĞƌ ŽĨ Ă schola scholarship.“I rship.“I am here here for for the eexperixperience, bec because believe ause I belie thatt eexperience ve tha xperience is the best best teacher.” teacher.”
Anika Robinson Miss LIME
and Cultural Cultural Club.
DATE D ATTE OF BIR BIRTH: TH: FFebruary ebruary 17, 1994.
RE RESIDENCE: SIDENCE: Gr Green een Hi Hillll
ASPIRA ASPIRATIONS: ATIONS: T TTo o pur sue sstudies pursue tudies in Business Manag Manageeme nt and Cos ment metology. Cosmetology.
RESIDENCE: RESIDENCE: Lodg Lodgee Vi Village llage
INFLUENCES: The Gr INFLUENCES: Green een Hill Sports
INFLUENCES: Her olde INFLUENCES: olderr br brother other (a doctor) doctor)
WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: PAGEANT: DŽƟǀĂƚĞĚ ďLJ ƚŚĞ ƐĐŚŽůĂƌƐŚŝƉ͘ ͞ ŵ ŶŽƚ D ŽƟǀĂƚĞĚ ďLJ ƚŚĞ ƐĐŚŽůĂƌƐŚŝƉ͘ ͞ ŵ ŶŽƚ from fr om a vvery ery privileged familyy, and privileged family, myy mother has w although m orked ffor or the worked lastt 19 yyears ovide ffor las or me in tterms provide ears tto erms o pr of schooling and so on, I kno w tha know w thatt no now ŝŝƚ ŝƐ ƵƉ ƚŽ ŵĞ ƚŽ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŵLJ ĞĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͕ ƚ ŝƐ ƵƉ ƚŽ ŵĞ ƚŽ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŵLJ ĞĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͕ ĂĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ĮƌƐƚ ƉƌŝnjĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŶĚ ƚŚĞ ĮƌƐƚ ƉƌŝnjĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ Pageant rship.” scholarship.” P ageant is a schola
DATE DATE T OF BIR BIRTH: TH: Sep September tember 25, 1992.
ATTRIBUTES: A TTRIBUTES: ƌĞĂƟǀĞ͕ ĂŵŝĂďůĞ͕ ŽƉƟŵŝƐƟĐ ƌĞĂƟǀĞ͕ ĂŵŝĂďůĞ͕ ŽƉƟŵŝƐƟĐ
PASTIMES: PAS A TIMES: >ŝƐƚĞŶŝŶŐ ƚŽ ƌĞŐŐĂĞ ŵƵƐŝĐ͕ ƐƉĞŶĚŝŶŐ ƟŵĞ >ŝƐƚĞŶŝŶŐ ƚŽ ƌĞŐŐĂĞ ŵƵƐŝĐ͕ ƐƉĞŶĚŝŶŐ ƟŵĞ with family, familyy, netball, netball, youth youth work. work.
ASPIRATIONS: ASPIR ATTIONS: To To pur pursue sue a career career in me dicine medicine
Donna Nelson
WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: P AGEANT: Apart fr from om the schol scholarship, arship, “I have have always always been interested interested in pag pageantry; eantry; I think it gives gives you you a great great opportunity ƚƚŽ ďƵŝůĚ LJŽƵƌ ƐĞůĨͲĐŽŶĮĚĞŶĐĞ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŽ Ž ďƵŝůĚ LJŽƵƌ ƐĞůĨͲĐŽŶĮĚĞŶĐĞ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŽ w work ork on publ public ic speaki speaking ng and interintervie views.” ws.”
A ATTRIBUTES: TTRIBUTES: FFamily-oriented amily-oriented
INFLUENCES: IN FLUENCES: Her mother
IN FLUENCES: Her gr INFLUENCES: grandmother, andmother, mother mother, otherr, and the la late te Ma Maya ya Ang Angelou elou (Ame rican author/poe (American author/poet), t),
Miss Dipcon Engineering
SCHOOLIN SCHOOLING: G: ΎΎ ƌ :͘W ƵƐƚĂĐĞ DĞŵŽƌŝĂů ^ĞĐŽŶĚĂƌLJ ƌ :͘W ƵƐƚĂĐĞ DĞŵŽƌŝĂů ^ĞĐŽŶĚĂƌLJ School * SVG SVG Communi Community ty College: College: Division Division of dĞĐŚŶŝĐĂů ĂŶĚ sŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů ĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͘ dĞĐŚŶŝĐĂů ĂŶĚ sŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů ĚƵĐĂƟŽŶ͘
EMPLOYMENT: EMPL OYMENT: Se Secretary, cretary, Ministry Ministry of Tourism, Touris o m, Sports and Culture Culture
P PASTIMES: A TIMES: AS Dancing,, sociali Dancing socialising, sing, vvolleyball olleyball
SCHOOLING: SCHOOLING: * St Joseph’s Joseph’s Convent Convent Kings Kingstown, town, * SVG SVG Community Community College: College: Division Division of Arts, Sciences and General General Studie Studiess (Advanced Level (Advanced Level Law Law and History) History)
INFLUENCES: IN FLUENCES: Her ffather ather
EMPL EMPLOYMENT: OYMENT: ƵƐƚŽŵĞƌ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ŐĞŶƚ ʹ >/D ƵƐƚŽŵĞƌ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ŐĞŶƚ ʹ >/D
WHY SHE ENTERED THE MISS SSVG VG PAGEANT: P AGEANT: She is inspired inspired by by the oppor opportunity tunity tto o win a Univ University ersity scholarship, scholarship, and the fact fact that that she will become become an Ambassador ffor or SSVG. VG.
ATTRIBUTES: A TTRIBUTES: Hard-working, Har d-working, ffocused ocused
ASPIRATIONS: ASPIR ATTIONS: TTo o pu pursue pursue a Law Law Degree Degree
16. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
ST. CLAIR INVESTMENTS LIMITED (IN RECEIVERSHIP) Opportunity to purchase a 3 (three) floor commercial building in the heart of Kingstown, St. Vincent The Receiver Managers of St. Clair Investments Limited, Marcus Wide and David Holukoff, are currently marketing for sale this highly attractive investment opportunity located in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The property is situated on the corner of Melville and Grenville streets in the capital Kingstown, on approximately 2,760 sq.ft of land. The building is currently set up to operate a restaurant kitchen with dining room on the ground floor, with further dining facilities on part of the first floor. The remainder of the first floor is office space. The third level of the building is attic space which previously housed a night club. Offers regarding St. Clair Investments Limited – In Receivership by sealed bid to be received on or before the 16th June, 2015 at 4:00pm and must be addressed to: Joint Receivers of St. Clair Investments Limited Attention: David Holukoff Grant Thornton (British Virgin Islands) Limited P.O. Box 4259, 171 Main Street The Barracks, Road Town Tortola, British Virgin Islands For further information please contact the Receiver Manager's office at: +1 (284) 494 6162 or chris.macdonald@uk.gt.com
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 17.
Education
UWI Open Campus in forward gear THE UWI OPEN CAMPUS has a new Principal (Acting) and Pro ViceChancellor. That person is Dr. Luz Longsworth, Venezuela-born to Venezuelan and Jamaica parents. Fluent in English, Spanish and French, Dr. Longsworth holds a Doctorate in Business Administration in Higher Education Management from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom. She is also a graduate of The University of the West Indies where she earned her BA in French and Spanish and MBA (Marketing) degrees. She is the holder of a Master of Arts degree in Hispanic Studies from Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada. The new Principal hit the road running when she headed a panel of the Open Campus Management Team at a news conference, conducted by tele-conference on Friday 8th May, and which was beamed to all 17 countries which host UWI Open Campuses.
Position in the transformation process In her maiden address to the
regional media, Dr. Longsworth spoke of the role of the Open Campus as being pivotal in the transformational process, occasioned by a new era of growth and change which the UWI is committed to address, as it fulfils its aim of becoming a truly global institution. As for the Open Campus, the new Principal saw it as a means of ‘taking the UWI to you (people) …. Of expanding its access and service.” The success of the Open Campus process spoke for itself, Dr. Longsworth said. It boasts, she said, “an 80% retention rate, which far exceeds the international rate of 30%.” And with plans to introduce up to eighteen new online courses, the Open Campus was into a mode of advancement that had been curtailed following the global economic downturn beginning in 2008. Now, as the region makes its way out of that debacle, the Open Campus is poised, the Principal said, to play its role in making higher education opportunities available to the those who are so desirous, without the disadvantage of being displayed. The Open Campus is all about defeating poverty and ignorance
through the provision of affordable and easily accessible education opportunities, Dr Longsworth told the regional media.
Partnership with the private sector
Dr. Luz Longsworth, new Principal (Acting) and Pro ViceChancellor of UWI Open Campus.
And while it has been a challenge collecting fully on fees from students and contributions from governments, the principal points to a new readiness to work with and re-define a partnership with the private sector across the region, that would help to cushion this reality. Partnership with the private sector will be informed, though not exclusively, by the needs of businesses as they relate to employee training needs, in keeping with the overall growth prospects in that sector. The Open Campus will have to, in the assessment of the new Principal, design business models, as it seeks to solicit direct, tangible support from that sector, that add value to whatever may be the investment that is forthcoming.
New programmes Vincentian born Dr. Joel Warrican, Director of the Division of Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) in the Open Campus, spoke of plans to expand the programmes offered by the Open campuses. This comes as a result of continuing assessment of existing programmes (e.g. the BEd programme) and initiatives geared at marketing analysis of the needs of the region as it
Dr. Joel Warrican, Director of the Division of Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) in the Open Campus.
relates ICT, National Security, Health and the Environment. With plans afoot to service 44 online sites, Dr. Warrican spoke of persons across the region now being able to access degree courses in, inter alia, Management Studies (Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resources. Undergraduate courses in Political Science, Psychology and Sociology will also, soon, become available online. Of immense interest to those involved in the media, Dr. Warrican announced that a course in Media Studies will become available, all things being even, in September 2016. And as the Open Campus process opens itself to being informed by the wider society, expect that the process of decision making will be informed, in due course, by a structure that will involve what is referred to as ‘sector advisors’. The Open Campus, according to Dr. Warrican, will remain “online, onsite and on demand” as it strives to remain relevant to the lives and aspirations of Caribbean people.
UWI Open Campus launches Development Project in SVG AS THE UNIVERSITY of the West Indies (UWI) continues to lay the groundwork to meet its strategic perspectives, objectives and targets under its current strategic plan for 2012-2017, the Open Campus in St. Vincent and the Grenadines launched the The UWI Open Campus Development Project, in celebration of these goals, on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 9:00 am, at its main site location in Kingstown. The project is sponsored by national, regional and international donor organisations, including the Governments of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Government of Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Development (DFATD) Strengthening Distance Education in the Caribbean (SDEC) project. This project involves the development of UWI Open Campus Sites in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Saint Lucia, including enhancing the physical facilities of the Open Campus, while developing its academic programming and building institutional capacity, in
order to strengthen the delivery of distance education for the social and Mrs Deborah economic Dalrymple, Head of development of the UWI Open the Caribbean Campus, St. region. Prime Minister Vincent and the of St. Vincent and Grenadines. the Grenadines, the Honourable Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, was the the main speaker at the event. Other speakers included: His Excellency Richard Hanley, High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS); Mrs Michelle Cross Fenty, Director of Projects, CDB; and Dr. Luz Longsworth, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal (Ag) of The UWI Open Campus. Head of Open Campus St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mrs. Deborah Dalrymple, will chair the event.
(Contributed)
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18. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
People he never relented in his quest to become an efficient law enforcement officer. He is one of the top detectives in the RSVGPF. His deep passion for investigations is unsurpassed by few in the
Inspector Hawkins Nanton receiving his award from Trinidad and Tobago Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams, (left), and Michael Aboud, (right).
Inspector Nanton cops top Caribbean award INSPECTOR OF POLICE HAWKINS NANTON has won the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP) Top Caribbean Career Move Officer Award, sponsored by Amalgamated Security. Nanton, who is in charge of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) Public Relations and Complaints Department, received the award at the 30th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the ACCP on Tuesday night, May 12th, 2015, at the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site in St. Kitts. He also received a prize of US$5,000. Assistant Superintendent of Police Mashama Sealy of St.Lucia placed first runner-up in the Top Caribbean Career Move Officer Award category. Inspector of Police Trevor Bailey of St.Vincent and the Grenadines placed second runner up in the Top Crime Fighter Award category, which was won by Inspector Eddie Monlouis of St.Lucia. First runner up in that category was Constable Milawn Frank of Grenada. Vincentian Constable Cornelius Pompey, a police officer in Cayman Islands, who previously worked with the (RSVGPF), copped the award for Top Caribbean
Community Policing Officer. Constable Silvina James of St.Lucia captured the first runnerup position and Corporal Stephen Billy of the RSVGPF placed second runner-up. An elated Commissioner of Police, Michael Charles, whose officers received three of the top awards, collected on behalf of Bailey and Billy. Inspector Nanton said he sincerely thanks Commissioner Charles for nominating him for the award, as well as the other Commissioners of Police for the support that they have given to him since joining the Police Force on August 2nd, 2012. He further stated: “I am most grateful to the Government and people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines for the opportunity to serve my country. Moreso, I will like to immensely thank my wife, Malika Nanton and children for their love and support, as well as Superintendent Kenneth John for mentoring me all the way, and Corporal Rochelle Smith for being a tower of strength. I will also like to thank Station Sergeant Junior Simmons and every member of the rank and file of the organization, who have provided me with support.” Nanton was recruited into RSVGPF at the rank of Inspector under the Organization’s Graduate
Inspector of Police Trevor Bailey is considered to be one of the best detectives currently serving with the RSVGPF. Entry Programme, a programme which enables suitably qualified members of the general public to be recruited into the organization at a particular rank. With his expertise in public relations and media relations, Inspector Nanton was placed at the Public Relations and Complaints Department as the second in command. Inspector Bailey is a twenty-four (24) year veteran of the RSVGPF. He was enlisted on November 19, 1990. At the conclusion of his initial training at the Old Montrose Training School, he was adjudged the Best Recruit for placing first on the training course. From that time to the present,
organization - and this has easily made him one of the most effective, reliable and recognized police officers in the country. Corporal Billy has been a police officer for over (12) years, having been
enlisted on October 8, 2002. He has seen service at the Fire Department, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and is currently stationed at the Chateaubelair Police Station. (Contributed)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 19.
News
Hairoun Beer turns 30: Drinkers rewarded by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
THE ST. VINCENT BREWERY is thirty years old. A series of activities will give meaning to this cause for celebration, and the Brewery is ensuring that its customers share in the spirit of the occasion. One of the activities that Vincentians can look forward to is a show, ‘Deal or no Deal’ Extravaganza, scheduled for Victoria Park, July 18. Even before that, Hairoun Beer drinkers are being encouraged, as of this week, to secure their crowns. In a 30th anniversary Under-theCrown (UTC) promotion, specially marked covers with three diamonds (L-R): St. Vincent Brewery’s Shafia inside can provide holders with London-Williams, Operation Sales and $300.00 hundred dollars instantly. Marketing Manager; and Kelvin Franklyn In addition to the $300 prizes, Marketing Coordinator, are pumped up about the 30th anniversary ‘give-backs’ to patrons can also win $30, $10, and $5 rewards, as well as carnival customers.
New scholarship offer for Vincentians TWO ELIGIBLE VINCENTIAN students stand to benefit from an offer of college scholarships for the 2015 — 2016 academic year. The offer of the scholarships comes from Island Scholars Inc., a non-profit organization registered in Lawrenceville, NJ, and started in 2014, by Mr. Ronald Rose, formerly of New Grounds, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. According to a release received from Mr. Rose, the value of each scholarship is $16,000.00 EC. Persons who have completed secondary school, have been accepted for admission to university, and who have demonstrated financial need, are eligible to apply. Applications can be sourced through www.Islandscholars.org.
Deadline for submission of applications is June 15, 2015, and successful applicants will be notified by July 31, 2015. Island Scholars Inc. is overseen by a Board of Trustees comprised of: Mr. Ronald Rose — Founder, President & Board Chair; Bert Williams — Vice President — Former Technology Manager, L’Oreal Corp; Christina Shu — Treasurer — Owner, West Windsor Kumon; Dr. Tera Hunter — Secretary — Professor, Princeton University; and Dr. LaFleur Stephens — Director -Assistant Professor, Princeton University. Its advisors are Sir Errol Allen and Ms. Yvonne Sinclair. According to its website, Island Scholars Inc. is “committed to helping students achieve
their potential for academic success, enabling them to contribute as professionals to the economic and social progress of their communities and their country.” Its mission is described as one of providing “through merit and needs based college scholarships, opportunities for promising students from St Vincent and the Grenadines to advance their education and contribute to their communities and country.”
Care and treatment of potted plants to evaporate. To increase the humidity around a HUMIDITY REFERS to the amount of plant to keep it from dehydrating, you can spray the leave with a fine mist of water vapour contained in the water, group plants together in close air. proximity or set potted plants on Changes in temperature affect the moistened pebbles. amount of water the air can hold. LOOK OUT FOR OUR Warm air draws moisture from waterHORTICULTURAL EXHIBITION IN holding sources such as potting soil and leaves of plants. Warm humid air OCTOBER, 2015. START PLANTING. is beneficial to the growth of plants, Presented by the SVG Horticultural but it also extracts moisture from them, while it causes water in the soil Society.
Humidity
costumes, carnival show tickets and Hairoun beers. And some ultra-lucky customers will take home $30,000 from the campaign. Further, those who are not lucky with the UTC can enter the sweepstake scheduled for the July 18 show. Shafia London/Williams, Operation Sales and Marketing Manager, addressing a launch held at the Brewery headquarters in Campden Park, Tuesday 12th May, pointed out that her company was making money available to those drinking its products. “The yearly promotions put on by Hairoun always cater to the everyday needs of its patrons, offering an element of practicality in every prize,” London/Williams disclosed. Her sentiments were endorsed by Marketing Coordinator Kelvin Franklyn, who traced the Brewery’s history, highlighting this nation’s legacy, its people and unique way of life, along with the soft crystal-clear spring water as contributing to the decision by the German Brewery to pioneer the
Hairoun beer sporting 30th anniversary labels, are already on the market. operation here. Three persons have been rewarded for their contribution to the label competition which was opened in February, to mark the 30th anniversary. They are Steven Veira who copped the first prize, Dwight Davis - second, and Okana Graham - third. The labels of the three have been placed on bottles of Hairoun Beer currently in circulation.
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20. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Divorce might be the only way out
Dear George I WALKED IN on my husband having sex with two women in my house, and one of these women was his cousin. His defense was that he was drunk and they seduced him. One of the women contradicted him. I ordered them out of the house, and as they were leaving, one of them said to him that he knows where to find her, and to remember he has a key to her house. I questioned him about it right there and then, and he could not deny it in front of her. I have obviously asked him to leave - I want him out of my life. However, he is not budging. It has been 2 months now since we have not had any intimate contact or even spoken to each other. It is making me sick to my stomach just to look at him. How can I get him out of my house and out of my life?
Mad Wife Dear Mad Wife, I can understand your anger and disappointment. Two months should have been enough time to cool down a bit, but if, as you say, you still feel the same way two months later, then you need to get help. It seems you are convinced about not continuing with your marriage, and in the light of that, it would be a good idea to get some legal advice as per a divorce and implications for property sharing, etc. It is also good to get some supportive counselling to help you deal with the negative emotions that you are presently experiencing, and to help you plot the best way forward.
George
Report the criminal NOW!!! what he is doing to us when she leaves us at home alone with him. I hate him, and I I AM SEVENTEEN YEARS OLD and hate Mommy for bringing have a sister who is thirteen years him into our lives. What old. We both live with our mother. Our father died two years ago, and our should we do now? My little sister cries all the time. mother moved a man into the house, despite our pleas with her not to do so. I did not mind her loving someone Sis else, but I felt it was too soon, and I Dear Sis, would have preferred her to be married to him rather than shacking Very sad indeed. You need to up. immediately tell your mother what Why I am writing to you is is going on. Yes, she may be in love because this man has gotten my with this man, but she does not little sister pregnant, and she is scared stiff. I do not know how far know this other side of him, and she is into her pregnancy, since her she needs to be made aware. I am inclined to believe that, although ‘belly is not yet showing’. He has she loves him, she would react threatened her that if she brings the baby, he will kill her, and if she differently, once she finds out that he has been sexually assaulting tells Mommy and she is mad at both her daughters. him, he will kill everybody in the Encourage your mother to go to family and then kill himself. the police about this. The man has At one time, even I was afraid committed a sex crime. If she does that I was pregnant for him, but it nothing about it, then you need to was not so. report it yourself. You may need Mommy really loves this man, help in doing so and, in that case, I and she would swear that he is a suggest that you find a professional good man; but she does not know Dear George,
counsellor to assist you. I can recommend The Marion House for this. I also understand that the threats made against you and your sister may be a factor in you keeping silent. But, remember that abusers get their strength from their victims maintaining their silence. You need to talk, and talk now and to the right people. If you are convinced that your mother will not do anything about this, should you choose to tell her, then contact The Marion House right away and have them contact your mother to join you there if needs be. Good luck to both of you, and please keep me posted as to your progress.
George
A breast problem going on in other places. I have absolutely rejected his suggestion, IMAGINE THE and now he is threatening AUDACITY of my boyfriend telling me that I to leave. To this very moment, I cannot believe need to go and get my breasts enlarged, and that he is serious about this! he is willing to pay for the Disappointed procedure. We are just one year Dear Disappointed together, and he is making it clear to me that Your boyfriend needs to he wants his woman to have big boobs. He says I respect your wishes, and he also needs to am perfect in the way I understand that it’s your look, except for my body, and that he should breasts. No one in my not force you to make such family has big breasts, a major adjustment when, George, but we have it
Dear George
in fact, according to you, there is no defect. If he truly loves you, he should be satisfied with the package that you bring to the table. If he continues to disregard your objection to his suggestion, then you need to find someone who accepts you as you are. If he wants a woman with big boobs, then let him know he is with the wrong person, and he needs to go and find what he is looking for, elsewhere.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You need more space for the whole family. You need to refrain from being the generous one in the group. Lay your cards on the table regarding your personal direction. The locks, stove, gas, or electric wires may not be secure. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Use your innovative mind to surprise youngsters. Plan a nice evening for two. You may have a hard time relating to children this week. If you try to manipulate emotional situations you will find yourself alienated. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Don't overspend on entertainment, on children, or make poor investments. Be cautious not to get involved in office chatter that will cause problems for others. Your determination and sheer desire to do your own thing will be successful. Don't deny yourself this week. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Do not ruffle feathers if possible. You may find it necessary to confront a situation that has gotten out of hand. Go out with friends who are positive and supportive. Your creative ideas must be put to good use. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Try not to lend or borrow money this week. You can ask for favors and get sound advice from close friends or relatives. Do your chores and get on with the things you enjoy doing. Don't spend too much on products that promise amazing cosmetic results. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Socializing will be more than just entertaining. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity. Much can be accomplished if you compromise. There could be opposition or temper tantrums on the home front.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Put something away in case of an emergency. Stop those bad habits. You can make reasonable bids on real estate or large items for your home. Relationships will be erratic this week. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Get motivated and follow up on some self-improvement resolutions. You may want to try your hand at a little creative writing. Don't let your boss get the better of you. You might not accomplish all that you want to at home this week. Luck is with you, regardless of the financial venture. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas. Keep your cash in your pocket and offer them sound advice rather than your financial assistance. You might find group functions tiring. You'll find it easy to charm members of the opposite sex this week. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You are ready to blow up and your stress level has gone into over drive. Joint ventures might prove to be unfavorable. Check your personal papers and make sure everything is in order. Bring work home if it will help you get caught up. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Opportunities to get involved in investment groups will payoff. You can make money if you work on personal investments. Try not to overspend on luxury items. Refuse to get involved in idle chatter; it will only make you look bad. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Someone envious of your popularity may challenge you to a debate. You can persuade even the toughest opponents to think your way. Take time to help a friend who hasn't been feeling well. It might be time to shake a leg and do a personal makeover.
ACROSS
(2 wds.) 52. Troubles 1. Chambers 53. “_Maria” (abbr.) 54. Yield 4. Sherical body territory 7. Ledger exam- 55. Dracula’s iner (abbr.) dislike 10. Chessman 56. Deli loaf 11. Grazing place 57. Compass pt. 12. Whiskey _ 13. Peps up DOWN 15. Clock sound 16. Singer 1. Barrett of LaBelle Hollywood 17. Decorative gossip flowers 2. Drop 19. Fly fisherman feathers 22. A Little 3. “SNL” Rascal component 26. Gator’s 4. “Rah”, in cousins Spain 5. Stimpy’s 30. Dagwood’s cartoon neighbour companion 31. Like Capp’s 6. Pesto Abner ingredient 33. Golden Rule 7. Dove calls word 34. Weapon for a 8. Brownish purple knight 9. Flat-bot36. Cuticle tomed boats scissors 10. Member of 38. “_ Fideles” Congress 40. Sheltered (abbr.) from light 43. Gnome’s kin 12. Saddle attachment 48. Garage job, 14. Glass bottle for short 18. Family _ 49. Reveal
room 20. League for the Eagles (abbr.) 21. Gets ahead 22. Sound of delight 23. Actor Ayres 24. Partner of “to” 25. Scrapes 27. Singular number 28. Middle (abbr.) 29. Help call 32. Used a match 35. Ike’s inits. 37. Tennis legend
Sampras 39.Ventriloquist Bergen 40. Slipped 41. _-Hoop 42. Competently 44. Political contest
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 21.
45. Has obligations 46. Take on cargo 47. Cleanser ingredient 50. Wall-climbing vine 51. Sweater neckline
22. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 23.
Calliaqua fix matters with Playaz AYCEES CALLIAQUA UNITED proved too much for Mattafix Playaz last Sunday night at the New Montrose Basketball facility, in the men’s finals of the National Basketball Championships. In what most patrons claimed was a case of déjà vu, Calliaqua stopped Playaz 70-46 in another one-sided final, as little resistance was waged by the losing finalist. Such was Calliaqua’s assurance, that the last quarter was designated to their fringe players , including Durwin Ross who came out in the latter stages to show his ball handling skills, much to
the delight of those present. Ishama Mc Kree, 17 points, and Otis Hector, 11, were the lead scorers for Calliaqua. The win underscored Calliaqua‘s unchallenged choke-hold on the sport on the mainland. “We need some competition”, shouted one of the Calliaqua players at the end of the match. “I fed up taking pictures in these clothes as winners... I think I done with that,” intimated Ishama Mc Kree, one of Calliaqua‘s key players over the years.
Lady Bustas had little or no bother in taking the 2015 female national basketball title.
Calliaqua United is proving to be ‘invincible’ in male national basketball circles here, as they took another (2015) championship title.
Second place- Mattafix Playaz Before the male final, the current state of Basketball in St Vincent and the Grenadines was exposed when the females took to the court.
With only two teams in that division, the final match of their exercise resulted in Lady Bustas swamping H & H Oral Dental Care Lady Advent
Ballerz 92-17, in what the females. was, barring the number The MVP of each of the of ‘baskets’ converted, a competing teams was also scrappy match. rewarded. Gailene Gordon On hand at last registered 23 points and Sunday’s presentation was Anella Samuel 18 , as this country’s lone NBA Lady Busta, comprised player Adonal Foyle, who of players who made it assisted in the almost a carbon copy of presentation of trophies Western Union Mitres and gave brief remarks. Netball team, ran away easy winners. Rochelle Franklyn, 10 points, was the lone player for the losers to get double digits. At the brief closing ceremony which followed, Lezlo Mc Kenzie of Calliaqua United was adjudged the Most Lezlo Mc Kenzie of Calliaqua Valuable Player of United, MVP of the male the tournament, and Lady Bustas’ Anella tournament, received his Samuel , the Most trophy from former NBA Valuable Player for player, Adonal Foyle.
Butler pulls Team Rivals through case all season long, it was Bascombe who was first to go, this time well caught TEAM RIVALS remained at slip by Orlanzo at the top of the Premier Jackson, as he aimed a big Division cricket here, drive at a half volley from following a handy alloffspinner Roland round performance from Wilkinson, without one of their veterans, moving his feet. He Deighton Butler, who struck eight fours. helped them collect first Browne was then joined innings points in their by Lauron Francois, and drawn match against the two left-handers Victors ONE, at the main featured in a partnership Arnos Vale Playing Field, of 75, with another last weekend. demonstration of text-book SCORES: Victors ONE cricket. They used their 213, Team Rivals 247. feet well to the spinners, Winning the toss and and defended stoutly when asking their opponents to it was required. take first use of the good The partnership was pitch, Team Rivals looked ended when Francois (46) to have made a serious was given out LBW to the blunder when Miles left-arm spin of Deighton Bascombe (45) and Atticus Butler, despite the ball Browne (69) put on 73 for seeming to be a bit high, the first wicket. with the total 148/2. Looking comfortable Victors ONE appeared against all the bowlers, to be making full capital of the openers appeared set the conditions, as Chrisroy to take their team into a John (14) and Browne saw position of dominance. the score to 177 before the But as has been the former, who had survived by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT
Deighton Butler’s good allround performance accounted to a great extent, for Team Rivals earning first innings points.
Victors ONE opener Atticus Browne goes through the offside during his innings of 69. a confident appeal for LBW the ball before, also went that way to Butler. Victors ONE then capitulated in dramatic fashion, to lose their last seven wickets for 36 runs. Browne, sixth out at 192, struck five fours and had a five in his innings. Butler was the main beneficiary of the Victors ONE implosion, with 7/51 from 16.2 overs, while Wilkinson had 2/30 from 13 overs. Team Rivals then
Team Rivals’ Harley Skeritt drives through cover for one of his boundaries in his 61.
looked in total control after recovering from 39/2, with Harley Skerritt and Casmond Walters in dominant mood. The pair added 85 for the second wicket before Walters (59) was bowled by Bascombe attempting a big drive, at 124/3. He counted ten fours in his innings as he took his season tally to 285. Skerritt (61), who looked at ease throughout his innings, went just before lunch when he was
well caught by Francois at slip, driving loosely at Bascombe at 150/5. Team Rivals then went into decline as they were precariously placed at 193/8 before Butler (37*) and number ten, Obed McCoy (11), added 32 for the tenth wicket. They were finally dismissed for 247, at which point the teams called play. Norlan Williams, bowling pace and spin, took 4/63 and Bascombe 3/46.
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24. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Rugby squad denied US visas A 12MEMBER SQUAD selected to represent this country at the North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Sevens SVG Sevens Rugby squad in some serious training. Olympic Qualifier, set for next South Zone Cup, the SVG Rugby month, in North Carolina, USA, has Union has been preparing and been denied visas to enter that organizing training for Sevens rugby. country. Twelve countries have confirmed The squad travelled to Barbados their participating in the NACRA on Tuesday this week, to appear at tournament, and the SVG men, in the USA Embassy there, to have their first outing at this level, are their applications processed in expected to face tough competition person, as required. with matches against Jamaica, They received a shock when, Trinidad, Mexico, USA South and without any plausible reason Guyana. according to one member of the President of the SVG Rugby Union squad, they were informed that their Sophia Goddard described the SVG applications were denied. squad as “.. a mixture of young, fresh This after all required supporting players as well as some of the long documentation was submitted, inter standing experienced senior players, alia, correspondence from the who have all been training hard with NACRA, the local National Olympic a very experienced coach.” Committee and the SVG Rugby She admitted that, “The Union, and personal information as tournament will not be easy, but as a per each player. Union we are focused on the bigger Since the return of the squad, on picture of how the players have Thursday, THE VINCENTIAN improved and also, how far the Union understands that Rugby officials here has come, rather than winning the have begun working with the whole tournament.” relevant authorities here to have the The SVG squad selected for the matter investigated, towards having Olympic Qualifier is comprised of: the denial of visas revoked. Andrew Phillips (Captain), Benson Seven-a-side Rugby will feature in Nanton, Aniso Lewis, Kimran the Olympics for the first time in the Barnum, Gilan Comas, Godfrey 2016 Games in Rio, Brazil, and the Matthews, Dellon Durant, Leonard NACRA annual tournament will, this Matthews, Recardo Dalloway, Dougal year, act as the qualifier. James, Shane Samuel and Leon Since the close of the 15-a-side McKenzie. campaign, which saw St. Vincent and the Grenadines placing 2nd in the I.B.A.ALLEN
ASCO dominate Triumph by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT CARL JOSEPH LAW CHAMBERS ASCO gave a glimpse of their potential, albeit against bottomplaced Triumph United, as they comfortably took the honours in their drawn Premier Division match at Arnos Vale TWO, on the weekend. SCORES: Carl Joseph Law Chambers ASCO 306/4 & 172, Triumph United 223. ASCO grabbed the early initiative by winning the toss and choosing to bat on a pitch offering some turn, but seemingly good for batting. Openers, Desron Maloney and Deron Greaves continued their relatively good season by posting 75 for the first wicket, in twelve overs. It was the impetuous Maloney (47) who took his leave first, by way of another ill-advised attacking shot. He was caught off the bowling of Keroy Roberts after hitting five fours and two sixes. Greaves and Kelshun DaSilva (22) then added a further 91 for the second wicket, before the latter hit a catch to Rohan Ash, off the bowling of Kerwin Williams (2/17). ASCO then slipped from the impressive position of 166/1 to 172/4, as the innings ran into a series of potholes. The three wickets included that of Greaves (86), who was caught off the bowling of Irwin Williams (1/33). The big left-hander found the
Police, Ruddy’s record resounding victories TWO RESOUNDING victories and one ‘no show’ characterized last weekend matches, as the preliminary round of the NLA First Division National Cricket Competition came to an end. Georgetown Combined made the work of Police One as easy as the lawmen could hope for, when they failed to turn up for the scheduled match. Not so for Ruddy Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors. They recorded an emphatic 156-run victory over Ishallz Byam Physical Therapy, at the Stubbs playing field. Those who witnessed the match saw former national allrounder Sylvester Vnloo blast the Ishallz bowlers to all parts of the field, on his way to compiling 138, in his team’s total of 330 for 8 in 38 overs. The next best Ruddy’s batsman was Lenron George, 39. Javid Harry, the left arm spinner, was Ishallz’s best bowler with figures of 3 for 38. Ishallz looked determined to make a go of their chase; but even on the backs of Imron Samuel, 69,
and Harry, 45, they fell woefully short, closing on 174 off 28.1 overs. Joseph Medford turned in figures of 3 fior 37, to be Ruddy’s best bowler. In the other weekend match that was played, Smashers recorded an even wider margin of victory, when they trounced Belfongo by 168 runs. Smashers batted first and posted 245 off 37 overs, with half centuries coming from Cuthbert Springer, 62, and Courtney Joyette, 50. Kemroy King and Travis Cumberbatch each had 3 wickets at the cost of 47 and 65 runs respectively. Belfongo put in an apology of a victory chase, and closed at 76 off 19 overs. Stein Joseph topscored with 22. Javon Samuel bagged 4 for 20; Jordon Corridon took 2 for 12. At the end of the preliminary round, Prime Consulting Marriaqu, with 39 points, led the standings in Group A. They were followed by Victors TWO and Robertson’s Surveying Belmont United on 32 points each, and Combine Youths with 26. Group B was headed by Police One on 55 points, ahead of Rudy’s
Electrical Unique Warriors, 48, Ishallz Byam’s Physical Therapy, 39 and Belfongo, 25. Quarter finals for Group A begins this Sunday, May17, with Robertson Surveying Belmont up against Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors at Park Hill, and Combined Youths opposing Police One at Arnos Vale 2. I.B.A.ALLEN
Sylvester Vanloo showed a thing or two to his younger colleagues, with a blistering 138 for Ruddy Electrical Unique Warriors against Ishallz Byam Physical Therapy.
Keroy Roberts overcame a disastrous first innings bowling effort, to claim 6/43 in ASCO’s second innings.
Deron Greaves turns through the legside during his innings of 86. ropes fifteen times. With the innings at the crossroads, a revival came with an unbroken fifth wicket partnership of 134 between Kenville Sam (59*) and Delroy Gregg (63*). The pair took full advantage of a series of loose deliveries, a fast outfield and short boundaries, to race to their respective half centuries, enabling their team to declare at 306/4 off 46 overs, with more than an hour’s play remaining on day one. Sam struck five fours and two sixes, with Gregg hitting an identical number of boundaries. Keroy Roberts came in for a serious pounding, with his 11 overs going for 101 runs, with one wicket. Triumph United took to the crease with plenty of fight and commitment, and saw Keroy Dowers (16) and Roberts (32) putting on 56 for the opening stand. The partnership was broken when Maloney, bowling offspin, trapped Roberts LBW. The innings from then on stuttered along with bits-and-pieces partnerships, but with the regular fall of wickets. They went to lunch 170/7, still 37 on the wrong side of the follow on. But through the efforts of Travis
Cumberbatch (67), they easily achieved that, and were eventually dismissed for 223. Cumberbatch struck ten fours and one six in getting his second half century for the season. Maloney finished with 5/54 from 18.5 overs. With a lead of 83, ASCO refused to go for quick runs and a declaration, preferring to bat out the afternoon. They were eventually dismissed for 172, with Maloney’s 40 being the top score. Roberts redeemed himself with figures of 6/43.
Desron Maloney, 5/54, helped to stop Triumph United from overhauling ASCO’s first innings total.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 25.
Sports
Women set the mark LAST NIGHT’S ENCOUNTER between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Lucia in the Windward Islands Men’s Football tournament went some way in determining this year’s winner. The Vincentians took the lead in a gruelling 3:2 victory over Grenada last Tuesday. Defending champion St. Lucia were held to a draw by Dominica. Every country has everything to play for. There is the pride of being the Windward Islands champion, which was a symbol of prestige before the World Cup qualifiers took prominence. In any event, the four nations have important qualifiers in June. The Vincentians face Guyana June 10, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. It will be sticky conditions, given the 3:30 start. The return leg in Guyana will throw up a different scenario. The Windwards tournament would have been an interesting barometer for the Vincentian squad. They have the incentive of emulating their female counterparts, who captured the first Windward Islands Football tournament at Victoria Park last April. The Vincentian team galvanised the support of the whole nation. And they lived up to the nation’s expectations. They beat Dominica 1: 0 in their first clash. They came from a gaol down to draw 2 all with St. Lucia. That equaliser was a gem, and demonstrated the determination of the squad. Dominica earned a draw with Grenada, and turned in a devastating performance to blow away any chance of St. Lucia being in the reckoning. It was up to the Vincentians to at least draw with Grenada to secure the title. They finished the tournament in emphatic manner with a one: nil victory over Grenada. It was joy for many Vincentians. The standard of football by the ladies was creditable. The administration must be commended. The ladies have achieved what their male patriots have been trying to do for years. The Vincentian Girls played an attractive brand of football, in keeping with the natural and physical beauty of the girls and the country. The chemistry seemed to have been established. When the team fell behind against St. Lucia, they showed enough strength to rally from the doldrums to earn a draw. The ladies have upped the ante. Their male colleagues have to rise to the occasion. The Federation must seize the momentum, and ensure that our young footballers make use of the opportunities for sport and academics. The West Indies victory over England might not have been an earth-shattering event. But given the backdrop to that occurrence, it could be heralded as one of the greatest shocks of recent times. The West Indies were supposed to have been slaughtered. Anything other than a 3: 0 romping would have been unacceptable to the English pundits. Having trounced the West Indies by nine wickets in that second Test, that final day debacle, it was taken for granted that the third Test in Bridgetown would have been a walk in the park for the visitors. British visitors thronged the arena, and revelled in the serenity of their second home. For some time, it seemed an English domain. Until the second innings collapse. The British were silenced, and West Indians flashed an air of triumph. That victory came in three days, and was something of a reverse in the fortunes that had been the experience over recent times. That added a coat of satisfaction to the conclusion.
More TT training in schools THE DIVISION OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION and Sports has launched another Table Tennis Schools Training Programme. They did so last Lodge Village Government School students into an introductory exercise, part of the new table tennis training programme at that school.
Monday, May 11, at the Lodge Village Government School, where training sessions are expected to be held every Tuesday from 1:45pm to 3:00pm. The Lodge Village Government School is the sixth school to be involved in the Division’s programme. They join the Brighton Primary School, the Belair Government School, West St. George Secondary School, the Girls’ High School and the J.P. Eustace Memorial Secondary School. The training programme in the schools is served by SVG 2 bedroom wall house, Table Tennis affiliated living room, dining room, coaches Sean Stanley, washroom, half-furJoseph Carrington and nished at Hopewell Unica Velox. Contact: 454-7776
FOR SALE
26. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015. 27.
Classifieds
Aircraft made contact with ATC before crash From Backpage. Both men received injuries and were first taken , then to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) in Kingstown. THE VINCENTIAN visited the Male Surgical Ward of the MCMH where the men were warded, and spoke to McDiarmed. He was not in a position to comment to any length, he having been sedated to avoid just that. He did, however, acknowledge that he was lucky to be alive, saying, “Perhaps I have made history in St Vincent, to be the only one who survived a plane crash.�
FOR RENT 2 bedroom at Villa Flat near sea For residence or business Tel: 457-1300 8-4 p.m.
FOR SALE The aircraft in its original, working condition.
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PM’s preliminary response Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, in his capacity as Minister with responsibility for Air and Sea Ports, said, during a press briefing on Tuesday at Cabinet Room, that he was expected to meet with the an investigation team from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA). The team was expected to be headed by Paul Delisle, Flight Operations Inspector. The Prime Minister anticipated that he would be briefed fully on some of the detailed information, including flight plans, etc., when he met with the ECCAA team. Dr. Gonsalves expressed relief that the incident did not result in any fatalities. He said that as soon as he was informed about the crash, he called the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Godfred Pompey, and mobilized the police. A full written report is expected in the weeks to come, the Prime Minister said.
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AIRCRAFT MADE CONTACT
WITH ATC BEFORE CRASH
The remains of the aircraft after it crashed in a field at Langley Park.
The release, made available here on Tuesday, indicated that the US (United States) registered, light twinengine aircraft, registration no. N504ME, which was en route from George Charles airport in St Lucia to the E. T. Joshua airport, communicated at about 2:27pm, that it had a slight problem, and requested priority for landing. Corsel Robertson, The aircraft was Director of Airports, reported to be about six confirmed that the miles from the airport at aircraft was in contact the time, but there were with the E.T. Joshua no specific details given Airport before it about the nature of the crashed. problem, Robertson stated in the release. “The Pilot did not by DAYLE DA SILVA declare an emergency. Shortly after this CONTACT was made with transmission, Air Traffic Control (ATC) at communication with the the E.T Joshua Airport by a aircraft was lost,” the small aircraft, just before release indicated. it crashed in a field at The authorities at Air Langley Park, on Monday. Traffic Control at the E This is according to a T Joshua Airport later release from the Director received a call from of Airports, Corsel Duncan Richardson, the Robertson. operator of the crop-
duster based at what is commonly referred to as the Rabacca air strip, in which he said that an aircraft had over flown
the air strip at Langley Park, and it was confirmed that the plane had crashed in a field.
The two occupants were Captain Wayne McDiarmed, a St Lucia born pilot of the aircraft,
and First Officer Marvin Teka from Grenada. Continued on Page 27.
Cash discovered in wreckage SPECULATION is rife, but it may be too early to determine if the two men who were in the aircraft which crashed at Langley Park on Monday were, in fact, coming to conduct illegal business. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Reynold Haddaway confirmed that a quantity of cash was discovered on the plane which went down in a field on Monday. The DCP did not disclose the amount discovered, but said that the matter would be investigated. It was also rumoured that a gun was discovered in the crash, but Haddaway told THE
VINCENTIAN that he was unable to confirm this. When contacted, Director of Airports Corsel Robertson said that when she arrived on the scene, much of the contents had already been removed, and that she could not confirm if cash or ammunition was recovered from the wreckage. She, however, noted that she was expecting to be briefed on the items that were recovered from the aircraft. The plane, a light twin engine aircraft, enroute from George Charles Airport in St Lucia to St. Vincent,
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
crashed after the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control at SVG’s E.T. Joshua aiport, stating that he was having problems, around 2:27 pm. Minutes later, the plane crashed in a field at Langley Park in the North-eastern section of the country. There were two occupants, St Lucian Wayne McDiarmed who piloted the aircraft, and Grenadian and first officer, Marvin Teka. Reynold Haddaway, Deputy Commissioner of Police, confirmed that a quantity of cash was discovered on the plane that crashed at Langley Park.
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