Vinpages 10 04 14 e reader

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines PRINTER SCANNER COPIER FAX C Color olor scan, scan, Fax Fax a forward forwar a d tto o email,, N Network etwork o scan, Copy/Print speed scan, PC/Walkup PC/W Wa alkup Fax, Fa ax,, C op py y/P Prrin rint sp eed of up tto o 35ppm, USB 2.0

THURSDAY,

APRIL 17, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.14

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

MOTHER OF TWO FOUND DEAD

MONICA WILLIAMS, mother of Miranda Williams, said that she spoke to her daughter the very night that she met her tragic death. Little did she know that that would have been their last contact.

According to Williams, she was not at home on Friday and last saw Miranda on Thursday of last week, as she was making her way out.

The body of 34-year-old Rillan Hill resident Miranda Williams, was discovered with a gunshot wound to the chest, in a remote area in Vermont known as Hope Flat, by a resident of that area.

“I am trying, I asking God for the faith to keep me strong because it’s not easy because Miranda wasn’t sick to say that they called me and tell me she dead,” the woman said.

“Somebody take her life, and now she has gone and left her two children,” Monica Williams continued.

The grieving mother said that she got the tragic news of her daughter’s death on Saturday morning.

She said that she visited Miranda’s workplace on Saturday, but was told that she had not yet reported for work.

Taking nothing of it, the woman said she went about her usual business, and it was not until she was making her way home, that she received confirmation that a body was discovered, and that it was that of her daughter.

“I said no, no. I did not believe that it was her.”

Her daughter’s death came as a shock to her, Monica told THE VINCENTIAN. “It came as a shock, I was not looking for this because she was not sick.” the mother said.

Miranda never indicated to her that she was having any problems, Monica explained.

She went on further to say that she often heard Miranda speaking to her siblings, but she never communicated directly to her (mother) that she was having any problems.

Miranda was described as a well loved person. “She was very kind, very nice — she loved her children,” Monica Williams said.

She said that she and the rest of the family would like justice for Miranda because she did not deserve to die in such a manner.

On Monday, family and friends of Miranda gathered at the spot where her body was discovered, to celebrate the life of a person they said was a good person.

Tazwea Carter, cousin of Miranda, said that the family had been supporting each other since her passing.

“Miranda, she is a sunshine — she was always in a good mood,” Carter said.

“She always made everyone smile; she never showed a bad face and she was always smiling,” the young woman continued.

Monica Williams is still trying to come to grips with the tragic loss of her daughter Miranda.

She too said that Miranda loved her five and twelve-year-old children.

Up to Tuesday this week, no one was charged in connection with the crime, but it was confirmed that someone was assisting the police with their investigation.

Miranda’s death and that of Sion Hill resident Roger Bramble bring the homicide figure for the year to eleven.

Miranda Williams was discovered dead, her body showing signs of a bullet wound to her chest.

Family, friends and well-wishers held a candle light vigil at the spot where Miranda’s body was discovered.

2. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 3.

News 3

PM expects no change in Fyffes-WINFRESH relations

WINFRESH 11 acre site which houses a banana ripening centre, located in close proximity to Stansted airport, England. wrapped up the debate on the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, in the House of Assembly, last week Thursday.

The PM was commenting on the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is issue for the first optimistic that the merger will not time since the damage the current Ffyeesannouncement was WINFRESH. made last month, that both companies STRATEGIC ALLIANCES with one or more smaller entities involved had merged to become the in the banana industry must first world’s largest banana be sought in order to capitalize marketer,with estimated revenue of US$4.6 billion. on any potential benefits to be According to Gonsalves, he derived from the Fyffes-Chiquita did not see the merger posing merger. any threat to WINFRESH — So said Prime Minister Dr the Windward Island banana Ralph Gonsalves as he

marketing company.

“And we in WINFRESH have enjoyed and we continue to enjoy cordial business relations with Fyffes, particularly with the Geest joint venture because we are partners in that joint venture,” he said.

According to the Prime Minister, based on the information that he has received, Ffyfes management will be in control of the merged company.

And notwithstanding that Ffyfes and WINFRESH were competitors in the marketplace, Gonsalves said that he did not see any obvious reason that the Fyffes-WINFRESH relationship will suddenly

turn sour because of the merger.

“But having said that, we must understand the reason why Fyffes and Chiquita have merged...they have merged to grow shareholder value, ….,, it’s a business matter — in short, for them to make more money than they make separately,” he told the House.

And among the things that are a possibility for St Vincent and the Grenadines,he said was that according to the market intelligence that he gathered, there were some supermarkets that already don’t like the overwhelming presence of one behemoth, and prefer to keep other entities in the market place.

“One can see that purchasers would want to have other entities in the market space so the behemoth of Chiquita- Fyffes doesn’t control the market and the price in such a way that they can dictate terms to the supermarket.

“So that in its own peculiar way is an opportunity for WINFRESH and for us, but we cannot exploit it by ourselves alone,” Gonsalves said.

He said that he was aware that others, including Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace and Prime Minister of St Lucia Dr Kenneth Anthony, has spoken to the issue of potential opportunities for the Windward Islands, but nobody has spoken about what these opportunities may be or if they exist.

And that while he regrets having not spoken on the issue sooner, he explained that he opted to gather information and study the issue, and seek advice before going public with a statement.

“If I was in the opposition, I would say what the Leader of the Opposition said, that I have not heard anything from the Government,” he admitted.

Foreign policy pivotal to nation-building despite its size and resources.

The Foreign Minister ST. VINCENT AND THE praised outfits like the InterGrenadines will continue to American Institute for use its foreign policy as a Cooperation on Agriculture central pillar in national (IICA), Pan-American Health development.

Organisation, (PAHO), and Senator Camillo Gonsalves, the Organisation of Minister of Foreign Affairs, American States (OAS).

Foreign Trade, Commerce and Senator Gonsalves Technology, stressed that described the OAS as a commitment at the National “critical point of engagement Library, Kingstown, last to St. Vincent and the Monday. He was addressing Grenadines,” but noted that the Second annual InterCuba was not included in American Exhibition. that body. He pointed to the Senator Camillo Gonsalves (L-R) Elias Villalba, Venezuela’s Charge d’ Affaires, and Gonsalves, one of three OAS and CELAC as being Senators named by the ruling used as platforms for Ms. Melene Glynn, OAS Country Representative, viewing reiterated his government’s position of using its foreign policy Unity Labour Party last peaceful negotiations. the Exhibition.

September, echoed his thrust as a pillar in national Sixteen Vincentians Bill in early April, one government’s drive in using received scholarships in 2013 North Windward coast of development.

Georgetown also came under quarter of that amount contacts with friendly, to through OAS funding and countries throughout the PAHO’s insistence. came from grant funding, contribute to the country’s with 13 others exposed to hemisphere, from Canada to As far as Gonsalves is Gonsalves outlined. economic success. higher learning, Gonsalves Chile. concerned, IICA is a key The budgetary adjustment For Gonsalves, the foreign viewed this assistance as The Foreign Affairs partner with the Ministry of came about as a result of the policy was a “central pillar” contributing to the education Minister expressed gratitude Agriculture. He highlighted floods which caused severe from the government’s revolution. to the OAS for cash donations damage to parts of mainland principled engagement with The Senator noted PAHO’s their role in enhancing the livelihood of rural women in St. Vincent. That damage was in the wake of the floods. other countries. role in Food safety, HIV and agriculture. estimated to be in the vicinity PAHO came in for praise for He pointed to the number of AIDS prevention and care of their help in repairing When the government of EC$300 millio. institutions and bodies at victims, as well as attention to damage, and IICA was pivotal passed its $84M Gonsalves noted the which this country had been infants and the elderly. The Supplementary Appropriation “overwhelming support” from in equipping farmers to able to influence decisions, Smart Hospital built on the succeed. by: WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

V

4. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

complains Trinidadian businessman Victim but DPP satisfied beaten in Bequia

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

THE USUALLY tranquil Grenadine isle of Bequia was recently thrown into a state of consternation and embarrassment.

The cause of the discomfort had to do with reports that Trinidadian businessman, Robert ‘Bobby’ Montano, was beaten and left unconscious, after he apparently resisted a robbery attempt, in his hotel room.

Montano was said to be vacationing with his son, Ronald Montano, in Bequia, which he had visited on previous occasions.

The 92-year-old holder of his country’s Humming Bird Medal, was flown back to Trinidad within hours of the incident, in a plane owned and piloted by his son Ronald, a former BWIA (CAL) pilot.

According to his nephew Danny, his uncle was, up to Sunday, warded at the St. Clair Medical centre, Port of Spain, in a stable condition. He described his uncle’s condition as “serious but not critical.”

Danny also told reporters in Trinidad, that his uncle had been strucked on the head and suffered internal bleeding, after he attempted to resist a

robbery attempt by a male.

Local Police confirmed on Tuesday, that seventeen-year-old Recolson Quashie of Cemetary Hill, Bequia, was arrested on the 9th April, and charged on the 10th April, with attempted murder and aggravated burglary on Robert Montano.

Robert Montano is a high-profiled Trinidadian who is credited as one of those persons responsible for the establishing the Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation (PLIPDECO), which paved the way for the

Point Lisas Industrial Estate.

His Hummingbird Medal, bestowed in 1975, was in recognition of his contribution to the economic and cultural development of Trinidad and Tobago.

Bequia is the largest of the Grenadine Islands that comprise the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is seven square miles in area and has a population of just about 7000. It is known regionally and internationally as a haven for yachts persons and tourists.

The incident involving Montano comes just

Robert ‘Bobby’ Montano was no stranger to Bequia, he having visited the island on previous occasions. about a week or so before the island hosts its annual Easter Regatta, a favourite with persons from the region and the world.

Marijuana issue highlighted in court

by HAYDN HUGGINS THE ISSUE of having small quantities of marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes was highlighted at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Attorney Carlos James raised the issue while representing 21-year-old Randell Spring of Chateaubelair, who had pleaded guilty to possession of 60 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.

In mitigation, James told the court that his client accepted liability for the offence, had not wasted the court’s time, and that the substance found in his possession was for recreational use.

Attorney Carlos James has reiterated a call for open, national discussion on the use of marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes.

James said, “Our society is becoming more acceptable to the use of marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes,” and pointed out that although the law makes marijuana possession an offence, “the time has come for us to openly accept the use of marijuana in small quantities for recreational and medicinal purposes.”

Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Mathias, however, contended that she must be guided by the law.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN after his client was fined $400.00 forthwith or one month in prison, James said that convictions for possession of small quantities of marijuana are turning youngsters into criminals, and the time has come to have open discussions on the use of marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes.

In a previous interview with THE VINCENTIAN, James had called for a national discussion on the regulation of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

He made it clear to THE VINCENTIAN on Monday that he was speaking on the issue as a lawyer, and believes that it has legal merit.

GLEN MARTIN, a 52-yearold businessman from Belair, is aggrieved with the justice system here.

His grievance comes as a result of Magistrate Ricky Burnette’s imposition of a five-year sentence on the man who chopped him three times.

Martin was chopped on his right hand once, and twice on Glen Martin is not his left hand, when he warded off an attack, March satisfied that the 2, by one whom he recalled as court gave him justice considering Peggy Glasgow.

He was released from the what he went through and how Milton Cato Memorial Hospital eight days after, in that has affected order to attend a hearing at him. the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where the matter was ruled upon.

“I did not feel satisfied. It is prejudice. I don’t think it was done right,” Martin complained.

Martin operates a bar and grocery in Belair. He disclosed that the convicted man owed him a sum of $42 for goods he took from his establishment.

According to Martin, the debt was outstanding for over four months, but Sunday March 2, matters came to an acute climax when Martin received the cutlass wounds.

“When people do injustice, they should be put away,” Martin contended.

Martin lived in the United States of America for over 30 years. He considers himself at the worse end of the affair, having been incapacitated as a result of the wounds.

“I would like to see this sentence reversed,” Martin added.

DPP Colin Williams indicated that it was his decision to send the matter to the Magistrate’s Court.

Williams outlined that cases of that nature would go through a preliminary inquiry and would have been on the Assizes for four to five years before coming before a judge and jury.

“I am satisfied that five years is a sufficient and serious penalty,” Williams stated.

Shootings occupy police INVESTIGATIONS are ongoing into the shooting death of Roger Bramble, 25, of Sion Hill.

Bramble’s body was discovered on Monday, in an area commonly referred to as Quata in the Brighton area, shortly after 10 a.m., by two residents of the area.

According to police, the body had already begun to decompose, and they reported that residents in the area said that they The area in Brighton had heard gunshots in the where Roger area on Saturday night.

Bramble’s partially Members of the Rapid decomposed body Response Unit (RRU), commonly referred to as the was discovered.

Black Squad, visited the area shortly after the shots were heard, police confirmed, but nothing was discovered.

Nobody was reported missing, the police said, until relatives of the deceased were contacted and they then confirmed that the young man had not returned home since Saturday.

In what is considered a separate incident, 32year-old Alphonso Weekes, an electrician of Campden Park, was shot in the abdomen by an unknown assailant.

According to Police, the incident occurred around 7:45 p.m. on April 1.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 5.

Regional

Venezuela: Maduro and opposition meet opposition wants to get rid of him, it would have to be via the ballot only.

His foes could force a presidential ‘recall referendum’ in 2016 if they garner about four million signatures for it. Maduro’s sixyear term ends in 2019.

Maduro said he had “positive surprises” for the opposition at the discussions, but gave no details.

While some opposition groups, including the party of President Nicolas Maduro (left) shakes hands with Aldo Giordano, Apostolic Nuncio to jailed protest leader Leopoldo Venezuela, read a letter from Pope Oppostion Leader Henrique Caprilles before the Lopez, boycotted the talks, Francis at the start of the meeting. meeting brokered by the Unasur bloc.

Henrique Capriles, the welcomed complicated, but it was worth opposition leader who NICOLAS MADURO, Venezuela’s it ... we are going to listen the Apostolic Nuncio (the president, hosted opposition narrowly lost to Maduro in Vatican ambassador) to patiently, and with respect leaders in mediated talks, last year’s election, attended Venezuela, Archbishop Aldo and tolerance, to the intended to end two months of the meeting and was expected compatriots of the opposition. to address the meeting. political unrest that has resulted Giordano, who read a letter from Pope Francis urging the He, however, warned in the deaths of dozens of Ramon Guillermo Aveledo, two sides to find common against unrealistic people across the country. another prominent opposition expectations.

The meeting, held last week ground. leader who supported the “There are no negotiations The meeting was broadcast Thursday at the Miraflores talks, said the face-to-face here. No pacts. All we’re presidential palace in Caracas, live on television. discussions were long overdue.

In what was a lengthy looking for is a model of was brokered by foreign “Something has gone very peaceful coexistence, of mutual wrong for a meeting between opening address, President ministers from the Union of tolerance,… that permits Maduro said, inter alia, “The South American the government and the road here was long and Venezuelan democracy to Nations (Unasur), and also opposition to be rare,” he is become stronger.” quoted by international news He said that if the agencies as saying.

Five days of official mourning for ANR

Cemetery in Tobago, the place of his birth.

There will be two funeral services for the former President/Prime Minister over the five day period, which is yet to be decided. The final dates, either April 24 to April 28 or April 29 to May 3, will be decided after consultation with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

One is certain: Robinson’s body will lie in state in a closed casket draped with the national flag at the Parliament building for two days, with a funeral service taking place at the National Academy for the Performing Arthur Napoleon Robinson Arts (NAPA) in capital Port of served both as Head of State Spain. and Head of Government of Robinson served as Trinidad and Tobago. third President of Trinidad and Tobago, from 19 March FIVE DAYS OF FUNERAL services will be held to honour 1997 to 17 March 2003, and as that country’s third Prime Arthur Napoleon Raymond Minister, from 18 December Robinson, former President 1986 to 17 December 1991. He and Prime Minister of is internationally recognized Trinidad and Tobago. for his proposal that Robinson died last week eventually led to the founding after a period of prolonged of the International Criminal illness. He was 87.

Court.

According to a statement He will be remembered for from National Security his stoic resistance, even as he Minister Gary Griffith, who was held hostage and shot, has been charged with the during a failed but bloody responsibility of chairing a coup attempt by 114 members committee set up to plan the funeral services, Mr. Robinson of the Jamaat al Muslimeen, an Islamic group led by Imam will be laid to rest at the Yasin Abu Bakr, in July 1990.

Scarborough Methodist

“Violence, he urged, “must be eradicated at the roots.

As the talks got going, reports said that protests broke out in the capital.

Since the protests began in early February, 41 people have been killed and about 650 people have been injured, according to official figures.

Pollsters say approval levels for both Maduro and the opposition have fallen during the crisis, while an already slowing economy has suffered a further drag on businesses and transport from the impact of violent clashes.

Ramon Guillermo Aveledo, a top opposition leader, said the face-to-face discussions were long overdue.

“Something has gone very wrong for a meeting between the government and the opposition to be rare,” he said, as quoted by Reuters news agency, adding that they must find a way to stop the bloodshed.

“Violence must be eradicated at the roots,” Aveledo said. (Source: Al Jazeera and more)

Further research on ’ganja’ agreed WHILE CARICOM heads have delegated responsibility for furthering the discussion on the legalisation of marijuana, yet another step has been taken, outside of that forum, which gives recognition to the usefulness of the substance.

The latest is that the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, last week Wednesday, April 9, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a large US-based company to facilitate research into the medicinal properties of marijuana.

The agreement, effective for a period of three years, was signed by Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of the UWI Professor Archibald McDonald, and Strains of Hope’s founder/director, Josh Stanley at a ceremony held at the Mona Campus.

According to a release from the Marketing and Communications Office, UWI, Mona, the terms of the MOU will mean that researchers at the UWI will collaborate with researchers at Strains of Hope, on fundamental academic research, related to

Marijuana is already being used to treat a number of ailments and diseases.

(Sitting from left) Josh Stanley and UWI professor Archibald McDonald, affix their signature to the MOU that begins a new phase of research into the medicinal value of marijuana. the development of the medical cannabis industry.

The release also said that the aim is to “to identify the biological and chemical properties of medical marijuana, with a view to determining how the plant works to treat disease or alleviate the symptoms of disease.”

In addition, the MOU commits both parties to provide support with the drafting of legislation related to the decriminalization of marijuana for medical purposes.

Strains of Hope is one of the largest marijuana growers

and dispensary owners in Colorado, USA. It was founded by Josh Stanley.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Stanley noted that Cannabis is being used by some individuals to treat a wide range of illnesses including epilepsy, paediatric cancer and the reduction of nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy. However, insufficient data exists for any conclusions to be drawn about its safety and efficacy. He noted that the collaboration with The UWI, Mona would assist in providing that information.

Principal McDonald welcomed Strains of Hope’s involvement, noting that successful pursuit of the objectives would have a tremendous impact on Jamaica’s economy. (Source: UWI, Mona)

V

6. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

WPP mission returns to MCMH

The first World Paediatric Project (WPP) Orthopedic Mission for 2014, conducted at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, will come to an end tomorrow, Saturday, 12th April. It began on Sunday 6th April.

The mission team, led by Paediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Chester Shaps, included Paediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Brian Deignan ; Anesthesiologist Dr. Moses Albert; Operating Room nurses Cathy Rosenbaum and Levetta Frasier, Medical Scribe Andrea Woerther; and Joseph Wheeler, photographer.

The team received support from local practitioners led by Dr. Charles Woods, orthopedic surgeon; Dr. Acousa Horne and Dr. Erica Jordan; Dr. Bharati Datta, Head of Paediatrics, and Mrs. Janelle Ballah, Head of the Physical Therapy Department at the hospital.

On Sunday, 5th, the team did a total of 102 consultations, two of which WPP Rep. Sr. Jacqueline Browne-King (foreground), assisted by were walk-ins. Persons receiving consultation came from Dominica (11), volunteers, records information on children seeking attention.

Grenada (8), St. Lucia (1), St. Kitts and Nevis (1), Anguilla (2) and SVG (79).

Twenty-five of these were referred for surgery, which began on Monday, 6th and lasted for the Invest SVG is now better positioned to attract duration of the mission.

When questioned about the role of such a mission, foreign investment.

This was the view expressed by Bernadette SVG-based Eastern Caribbean WPP representative Ambrose-Black, Executive Director of Invest SVG, Sr. Jacqueline Browne-King, explained that Dr. on her recent return from a visit of the facilities at Charles Woods is the sole orthopedic surgeon in St. PRONicaragua, the official investment and export Vincent and the Grenadines, and he covers the promotion agency of Nicaragua. paediatric aspect as well. A visit to one of these Ambrose-Black led a three-person delegation to orthopedic clinics could easily see the number of the Central American country and reported at a cases from the length and breadth of St. Vincent recent media briefing, that she felt confident that and the Grenadines requiring attention. The the organisation was following the right path in its missions, therefore, are extremely helpful in drive to attract foreign business. addressing the local situation. Also, as it caters to This visit was organised by the Caribbean other countries in the region.

Association of Investment Promotion Agencies Local team leader, Dr. Charles Woods, outlined (CIPA), which falls under the Caribbean Export some of the cases that are seen during these Development Agency (CEDA). missions. “We see congenital orthopedic problems, PRONicaragua was recently ranked number one like scoliosis, for example. “ He informed THE in 2012 by the Global Investment Promotion Bench VINCENTIAN that the talipes, finger deformities, marking report and, according to the executive the cases of absent fibula, of spina bifida, and director of Invest SVG, the visit was not just arthrogryposis, are also examples of cases seen. intended to strengthen capacity and learn from them, but to also collaborate with other regional Persons desirous of having their children, from investment promotion agencies. babies to twenty-one years of age, seen in these “We live in a globalised environment, and we are missions, could contact Sr. Jacqueline Browne-King constantly looking for ways to be more viable and at telephone number 494-2751 or at the office, sustainable. One such way, and this is a thrust that upstairs Sigma Lab at Bentick Square, tel no. 451CARIFORUM is looking at, is the idea of a regional 2989. brand not just for regional investment, but for tourism, for agri-business,” she explained.

“We are supporting and participating in establishing not just the regional brand for investment promotions but that of contributing to a regional strategy for agri-business, and trying to make the region not just a more lucrative jurisdiction for investment, but an attractive tourist destination,” Ambrose—Black continued.

The experience stood out because PRONicaragua was an example for all investment agencies to follow in terms of best practices and investment attraction and facilitation, she said.

“Our visit toPRONicaragua bore much fruit, in that it validated our new strategic vision and our new approach to improving the business climate in SVG,” said Ambrose-Black.

Most of the new strategies that are currently being implemented here are those that are already OR nurses Levetta Frasier (right) and Cathy in operation in Nicaragua, she further explained.

Rosenbaum (centre) take a break and chat with Dr. Nadine Agard-Juillerat, Business Facilitations Bharati Datta, local head of Paediatrics.

Children, accompanied by their parents/guardians, await their turn for consultation.

Invest SVG strengthening its capacity

Bernadette Ambrose-Black, Executive Director (right) and Nadine Agard-Juillerat, Business Facilitations Manager of Invest SVG, at a press conference, during which they detailed the benefits of a recent visit with PRONicaragua, Nicaragua.

Manager/Invest SVG, described the experience as an enlightening one.

She said that they were instrumental in pointing out some best practices, and pointed out that in the region, there existed the notion of what was termed ‘attention drifts’.

“We stray away from our intended focus and purpose,” she said.

“So we were reminded to focus on our mandate and to make sure that we do it to the best of our ability.”

Agard-Juillerat said that the Nicaraguans went into great detail explaining what allowed them to become the world’s greatest.

“They focused on the gathering of information on your investment climate and building your image, so they also focused strongly on their marketing and how they pushed themselves forward,” the business facilitations manager said.

This was particularly important, she said, because it was explained at PRONicaragua that the Caribbean region and Latin America was not necessarily the first choice for investors, so whatever the region did to attract investment needed to be done in a focused manner.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 7.

News

Police appeal to females to be careful

THE RSVG POLICE FORCE has issued, once again, a call to females to take care of themselves, and a particular call to young females, teenagers, to be extra careful.

The call came from ASP Johnathan Nichols, Head of the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department (PPRCD) earlier this week.

He disclosed that there has been an increase in the number of reports of sexual assault being made to the police.

And his recent appeal comes on the heels of police confirmation of the kidnapping and sexual assault of a female student of Campden Park, last Friday afternoon.

Up to press time, no arrest had been made, and Police were still looking for the perpetrator(s) involved in the kidnapping and sexual assault.

According to the Police, the young girl was walking along the main road in Campden Park when she was reportedly picked up in a vehicle, and taken away to an area in Pembroke/Buccament, where she was reportedly sexually assaulted.

The PPRCD also stated that the news of a second sexual assault which allegedly occurred over the weekend in the vicinity of the Post Office, was false.

ASP Nichols took the opportunity, however, to appeal to females to care for themselves.

He recognized that it was the responsibility of parents and guardians to be aware of their children’s, more specifically their daughters’ whereabouts, and urged them (parents) to “make sure that when they are leaving home, that they have some contact number and you know where they are going and who they are going with.”

But he also had a word for the young females who he said ought to be honest and upfront with their parents and guardians, regarding their whereabouts.

“If you are leaving to go to a party, or to whatever function, ensure that your parent or guardian have the right information, the address and who you will be going with,” he beseeched.

“If they were travelling in a vehicle, then they ought to inform their parents and give them the right information. This is for your safety,” he continued.

He warned that “this is not the time to be

ASP Johnathon Nichols, Head of the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department, called on females to be more concerned about their own safety.

adventurous because it can cost you your life, or you can have an experience that can be detrimental to your future.”

He advised all females not to accept rides from people that they do not know, or from someone whom they may know but in whom they do not

have a sense of trust and confidence.

“We know some females because of your jobs, because you go to classes, it may not be possible at times to have that company, but as practically as possible, have a companion, avoid walking

alone, try get some company,” he advised.

“Unfortunately, there are a lot of worthless predators out there preying on our young females, and we have to continue to work together,” he admitted.

V

8. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial A thought at Easter How many of us have found it fit to apologise for stupid and/or ‘ignorant’ and/or insensitive things we have done or said over the course of our lives?

If we have not (apologised) before, it is safe to say that there will come a time in the future when we will find the need to apologise.

But, what is an apology against an ‘apology for an apology’, as the saying goes? An apology, as we understand it, is an admission that we have wronged others and that we are sincerely and wholeheartedly sorry for having done wrong.

Admittedly, none of us likes to say we are sorry, for to do so is to admit to our wrong. None of us likes to feel defeated, humbled by the act of apologising, saying we’re sorry. We don’t like to go face to face with a person or persons and say, privately or publicly, that we are sorry for having done a misdeed.

Apologising is literally a humbling experience, a humiliating one if we stretch it. The very act of apologising demands a volume of humility and an equal dose of willingness to put the needs and feelings of those we have wronged, over and above our own. But that is difficult, apologising is difficult, since we are by nature ego-bound, protective of our persons first and foremost, and therefore, will naturally find it difficult to apologise.

The season of Easter, when we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ who died in public, not in private, for our transgressions against others, is as good a time as any to reflect on the underlying reason and message of the life and death of Jesus. That message being that, fundamental to our living Christian lives, which we are wont to profess so loudly, we be men and women enough to admit to our wrong, irrespective of our (high) offices.

Yet, even as we contemplate making an apology, we must do so after serious consideration of whether we are prepared to do so because we are sorry for ourselves or for others (those we have wronged).

The question for consideration, put another way, is whether we are sorry we did wrong or that we regret having been caught?

If the nexus of our concern is our reputation, our standing, our status an apology that comes from that type of motivation is likely to reflect that, and can be easily discerned as being hypocritical, insincere.

If, on the other hand, our primary concern is that our actions have affected others negatively and there is need to make amends, then the focus of our apology will reflect that, and those we have wronged will more likely appreciate that we see the problem is not what’s being done to us, but what we have done to others.

Mind you, there is nothing fundamentally wrong if we are concerned for our own standing; after all, as referred (above), we’re ego-driven creatures, and damage control is a fine thing.

The challenge we face though, as imperfect human beings, is understanding where the balance is. We must remind ourselves that an apology is about owning up to what we have done to others. Making our apology all about us, or primarily about us, is missing the point of an apology.

It is also instructive that we accept that while an apology is something we do for ourselves, it is, in essence, directed towards other people. That is to say, it must never be motivated by a belief that it is something we must do because other people expect that we do, but motivated by the conviction that it is something we expect from ourselves, and that it is part of our character, as social beings committed to do good to our fellow men, to own up to the wrongs we have done to others.

If we apologise solely because of others’ expectations, the apology will be hollow at its very core. A genuine apology is the one where the moral actor is the one who is saying “I apologise.”

So, at this Easter time, when we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ who died for all of us, let us reflect on the wrong we have done, from high offices and low offices, admit to our wrong and make sincere apology for same.

If the truth be told, don’t we have much for which to apologise?

Keeping holy week “holy” (Part reprint of 25th March 2002) VIOLA THOMAS

This publication comes out on Holy Thursday, serving its readers through the week-end that takes in Good Friday, climaxing with the Resurrection of Easter Sunday.

It is a solemn yet exciting period in the calendar of the Christian Church. So I rest up this week on narrowly political and other mundane matters, and choose to reflect on the recent deaths of a few persons, with whom I enjoyed more than a nodding acquaintance.

There is a good reason why I should be moved by the death of Viola Thomas a fort-night ago.

Viola was an educationist -first female Chief Education Officer- with a passion for her job, and a facility for the use of the English Language, written and spoken.

Merely to embrace Viola was to engage fires of love that etched into the soul. She was indeed a special person, gifted and blessed by the Holy Spirit.

company,” and, above all “studied their lesson”.

The strap, used liberally in those days, was Gertrude’s most reliable ally in her bid to raise an exemplary family, which she finally accomplished.

Some years ago, I published the following encounter with Gertrude: At mid-morning one day she entered my chambers and engaged me to do some legal work. After giving her instructions, Gertrude noticed that I hesitated somewhat with the next move. Reading me correctly, this fish-vendor volunteered: “Mr. John, don’t bother your head about easing me up. I sure I done make more money this morning than you have collected.”

And she promptly paid me, on the spot, the full fee that I charged!

That was vintage Gertrude. They hardly come like that anymore. I shall always cherish her memory.

CARMEN WILLIAMS

HUGH DRAKES

A month or so earlier, I stood witness to the burial of Sister Carmen “Little” Williams.

Of humble stock and average education, Carmen had immersed herself in the field of adult literacy giving her all to ensure that her fellowman obtained even a smattering of learning that enables one to function as a member of modern society.

To that end, “Little” contributed greatly to several fora that plied that trade.

Understandably, Carmen Williams also associated politically with groups such as the DFM and UPM that appeared to want to light a candle in the stygian darkness of general and political illiteracy.

In the process, her own light has illuminated bleak and hidden places, for which she has been praised to the Glory of her Father.

At the same time of “Little’s” internment at the cemetery, I took in the funeral ceremony of my dear and longstanding friend, Gertrude Hinds.

While I served as a cricket commentator, I regularly tapped the brains and skill of Hugh Drakes who sat at my elbow, churning up all the stats and figures at a moment’s notice that made my audience think that I was on the ball.

In fact, using his “mathematical” brain (He taught “A” level maths at Secondary schools) Drakes devised a scoring-sheet in which the scorer was called upon to make about a dozen entries per ball bowled, just to keep a perfect tab on the course and flow of the game.

No doubt Drakes’ disciple, Bobby Fraser, would be able to perfect and publish the rather challenging Drakes Charts.

The Master had had his priorities. Throughout the week days cricket was his passion. On Sundays, Bobby had to take over. For Drakes, it was the time to serve his God, and there was none other before Him. Not even cricket forever and forever more. Amen.

Sadly, last Palm Sunday night, was used as an opportunity by the ruling ULP regime to sponsor a raucous bacchanal at Calliaqua Playing Field. It really is baffling the way Rene` Baptiste can, in one breath, movingly conduct a Lenten Mission Service and, in another, promote investments in Poorsah’s “Hairy Bank”.

We continue to serve two masters!

I have used this Good Friday to reflect on the theme of death. Interestingly, my own mother had been born on a Good Friday many moons ago. In turn, she gave birth to me on an Easter Sunday! For an uncomfortably long time, some local Spiritual Baptists took the accident of my birth date as a sign from God to harry me to give up the world, and provide them with religious leadership!

This year 2014, my 76th birthday fell on Holy Thursday. My constant question: Why on earth do Vincentians continue to crucify Christ while repeatedly crowning Barabbas?

GERTRUDE HINDS I first knew Gertrude Hinds as a teenaged oneroom tenant in a tenement building at Bottom Town, which was owned by my father.

We became friends then in the early 1950s, and it took death to break the bond.

In between those years, I observed, with great admiration, the hard work Gertrude devoted to the fish-vending business which had been regarded as a man’s preserve.

Gertrude bore four children whom she brought up in a single-parent family in which she was both father and mother and sole money—earner.

Overtime, the family’s material circumstances improved. But the real achievement came from the strict policies that this Amazon applied to ensure that her kids walked “the straight and narrow path,” turned their backs on bad

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 9.

Letters

Throwing out the good I MUST admit that the world is constantly changing, and therefore, will not remain the same.

I mean, for example, when I was young, a teenager, we never even thought of a device such as the cellular phone. In fact, many of the homes in St. Vincent didn’t even have phones what we call a fixed line phone today.

We were aware of technology and how the big countries were using it, but we never felt that it would change our lives to the extent that it has.

The radio, the local newspapers and some from Trinidad, especially, kept us informed. There was no television, and going to the cinema, in my case, was a special treat, something that happened a few times a

year.

Of course, all that has changed for the generations that have followed. Television is a staple, computers and the internet have replaced reading, and new inventions happen as though they come off an assembly line. But has all this changed us for the better?

Take what I understand is called the smartphone. It has brought the world closer, yes, but it has caused us to lose some of the good traits that ‘make us man’.

What I find disgusting, is to have to negotiate some girl, boy, man or woman on the sidewalk, as they walk heads down, eyes glued to their smartphone,

with no regard for who is coming in their direction.

More often than not, it is you who have to give way to these persons. I wonder if they ever stumble and fall. Before too long, we’ll have a nation of people suffering from severe neck problems. Once upon a time, there was a pleasant ‘good morning’ or ‘good evening’ offered to whomever we passed on the sidewalk. None of that these days.

Again, it is most distasteful, definitely not manners, when you sit around a table with others, hoping for some good conversation like good old days, only to have one or more of those sitting at the table, working away on their smartphones,

communication with whom is anyone’s guess.

And what about those who stroll along, headphones attached to their phones, oblivious to those around them and to what is happening right under their eyes.

I passed a young man on the road talking his head off. He was alone. I thought he was talking to himself. My grandson told me when I related the story to him, that the man probably had a speaker phone. The microphone was probably pinned to his shirt and the phone in his pocket.

He was not talking to himself. Who!!!!

Worse, is the case of the young man who made it clear to me that what he was saying was the truth, because

Loud music and no peace I WANT to congratulate the Traffic Department for cracking down on loud music in vehicles.

However, I wish something could be done about loud music in residential areas.

For months now, loud music has been blasting almost every day and night of the week from the blue rum shop in the Walvaroo area, opposite the LIME building. I thought I was the only one affected, until I saw

Life A gift given by God, A handwork of his creation.

Instead of taking care of this treasure We put ourselves in problems we cannot solve, This gift should be cherished, Every day we need to thank Him, For as we look around, We see the young are dying, Others are enslaved by the ills of society.

We need to call on God Who still offers his saving grace.

Money, wealth and fame don’t make it better.

What does?

Is how we live our lives, And every waking moment of our lives, Should be spent on serving God! Yannic Sayers SVG - 2014

the article in the newspaper a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, nothing has been done to stop this intolerable behaviour. and so the music continues. I know people have been calling the police, because I talked to my neighbours from Walvaroo and the Arnos Vale area, who have also been complaining about it.

The music would stop for a few minutes at a time, then start back low, only to escalate

right back to its intolerable level.

One neighbour went so far as to talk to the shop’s owner about the loud noise, and the owner’s attitude was that he was a friend of a minister of government. I hope the police take the same approach to crack down on this type of music — charge fines, or confiscate the music systems when people who are warned about the loud music do nothing, once the police

turn their backs.

I am asking the Commissioner of Police to please do something about this and other such establishments, whose loud music disturb the peace of the residents. Let me support the other article by also asking persons affected to call the police at: 457-1211 and ask for the CID Department to voice your complaints.

Affected resident

Leave the posters up I COULDN’T HELP but laugh at Senator Julian Francis calling on Grenville Williams to take down the posters he (Williams) had plastered in the South Leeward constituency.

Doesn’t Senator Francis understand that there is a ULP race on in that constituency, and those who are contesting will employ all reasonable means to beat the others?

Posters are one way of people getting to know a person who is interested in representing them. Once Mr. Williams is not breaking any law, and once he can afford to have posters printed, at no cost to the party, then he should be allowed to put up his posters. Too bad if the other fellow in the race can’t afford to do likewise, or choose not to follow suit. (By the way, he could well do with some posters.)

It doesn’t look good for our party that action has to be taken after the fact. If the party didn’t want this time of campaigning, it should have set down the parameters as part of party policy. Then again, ‘run-offs’ to decide on a candidate is a relatively new thing to our political culture, so Senator Francis and company might

not have anticipated how far Mr. Williams is preparedto go to win the nomination.

I say, let the men campaign — posters, house-to-house, leaflets — anything that is legal. The campaign can only be healthy for the party.

Already it is one of the constituencies which we, the ULP, do not presently hold the majority. An early indication of the seriousness of the possible candidates can only make it more difficult for the incumbent to hold on to the seat in parliament.

Let the posters reign.

ULP South Leeward supporter

someone told him so on Facebook. And some young ones tell that they no longer listen to music, they watch it, on something they call You Tube.

What is the world coming to?

I might be ‘oldtimeish’, but I long for the good old days when we exchanged pleasantries face to face, instead of over a phone.

Janet - An Old Timer

ANR Robinson⁄ a Caribbean symbol ARTHUR Napoleon Raymond Robinson passed away last week in his native Trinidad and Tobago.

He goes down in that country’s history as being the only person to date, to have served in the two highest but separate offices of that country, i.e. he served both as Prime Minister and when he retired from active politics, as President.

The thing I remember most about Mr. Robinson, was that he was Prime Minister when a group of Muslims staged a coup intended to topple his government. He along with many others, were held hostage for five days in the Parliament, during which he was shot and beaten.

Yet, with no regard for his own life, he issued instructions to the police and army to ‘attack with full force’. For this he became the target of calypsonians, cartoonists and opposition politicians.

But he lived to fight another day, even though he must have been traumatized by the experience of the attempted coup.

I wonder, how many other Caribbean Prime * Is the police Ministers, past and the only people who present, would have had are denying knowthe courage that Mr. ledge about an Robinson demonstrated assault on a young in the face of death. female in the Mr. Robinson put his vicinity of the life on the line in defence Kingstown Post of the democracy for Office? which our fore parents * Is a story about had struggled and which accounts at a we enjoy today. In that leading bank in the sense, he is a symbol of USA about to break resilience to all people of here? the Caribbean. * Who in the ULP leadership has Trini-Vincy serious concerns about Mr. Grenville Williams’ running as a ULP candidate in the next general elections? * Anybody else notice how the ULP like to sweep things under the carpet, like the Augustus and ‘Codo’ Thomas affairs?

V

10. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The ULP continues to provide Prevention and Detection of Crimeleadership in trying economic times A priority of the NDP

The Issue THE ISSUE OF THE NEXT general elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is now finding its way onto the agenda for discussion in many quarters in the state.

Constitutionally, there is a period of twenty months to go before the election is due, but the date could be set before then. In any event, it is only Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who could set the date for the next poll.

What is clear, even at this stage, is that the issue of the management of the country’s economy, will be a major talking point among voters, given the harsh global economic and financial times. Already the opposition NDP, lead by the so-called “economic guru” Arnhim Eustace, has backed away from its foolish argument, that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the only world nation to be affected by the global economic crisis.

Our citizens are now brighter and smarter, with greater access to the internet, and to information. They are reading more, researching more, and thinking more about world affairs, and so many of the lies told by the NDP, in relation to the economy of the country, cannot find any resonance in the minds of the voters. Even supporters of the NDP are coming around to the recognition that the economy is being managed in a proper way, and that the country is holding its own.

If they needed any reminder, they just have to go back to the comments made by the guest speaker at their last convention, that the country is “weathering the storm”, a statement that has created some discomfort among many NDP leaders, particularly as the small crowd of supporters provided enthusiastic applause for this statement.

includes the salaries of NDP parliamentarians. In fact there has been employment, although small, in the public service.

All this and more have been accomplished by the ULP, despite a number of factors, including natural disasters which have affected our country (including a drought, two heavy periods of rainfall, and Tomas) and international factors like SARS, 911, high oil prices, the removal of market preferences in the United Kingdom, the meltdown of BAICO and CLICO, and the current global economic and financial crisis.

How did the ULP accomplish this

First and foremost through a mixture of prudence, efficiency, effectiveness and accountability, coupled with some enterprise. By and large, the ULP administration has held fast to its policy of a “people centred development”, and this has produced benefits for Vincentians. But there are some social factors that are critical.

Many of our significant population centres are located where agricultural produce and fish are available. Thus acquiring food for sustainable living is not as expensive as in other Caricom countries. The public sector has been able to employ just over ten thousand persons out of an estimated labour force of 45,000. There are private sector entities, including the Mustique Company, the Canounan development projects and the cruise ship industry, that have absorbed a number of these workers, and workers have been employed at other private sector Where are we companies.

When we add to this the number of The verifiable fact is that St. persons who are self employed Vincent and the Grenadines is the (farmers, fishermen and small only OECS country to record two businesses) we see that the unconsecutive years of positive economic employment effect of the global growth rate. To be sure, the period financial crisis has been reduced 2008 to 2013, was a period of negative somewhat. or low economic growth rates, as a There has been very little fall off in consequence of the external economic remittances from abroad (7% of the circumstances. But as the NDP now GDP) and significant capital inflows know, we have “weathered the storm”. to the public sector through grants The second verifiable fact is that and soft loans, has been a further there are only two countries in the boost.

OECS who have not yet gone to the International Monetary Fund for CONCLUSION structural adjustment programmes.

One such country is St. Lucia, and the The World Bank in its Global other is St. Vincent and the Economic prospects document, (pages Grenadines.

60-66 of the section on Latin America What does this mean? It is another and the Caribbean) is forecasting that indication of the success of the policies by 2016, the country’s projected and strategies used by the ULP economic growth of 4.2%, will place it administration, to manage the ahead of the 3.7% projected for Latin economy of this country. The much America and the Caribbean. SVG will touted economy of Barbados, once then be sixth among the 24 countries used by the NDP, as a beacon of from this sub-group, ahead of economic stability, is itself now countries like Brazil and Venezuela, grappling with the effects of an IMF based on the projections from the austerity programme. Arnhim World Bank Eustace and his un-patriotic bunch no This is indeed great news and longer use Barbados as an example further tells the story of the success of when they want to be critical of the the economic policies and strategies economic performance of the ULP. adopted by the ULP administration.

A third verifiable fact is that the However, we have to continue to work ULP administration has not laid off harder and smarter, through the any public servants, and salaries have resilience of our people, even as the not been frozen, or reduced. The ULP ULP administration continues to administration has not missed a manage the socio-economic apparatus salary deadline since it assumed office sensibly and well. after the March 28, 2001 general elections, thirteen years ago, and this

AS I LISTENED TO THE LOCAL news on Monday 14th April, 2014, I could not help but ask: What has become of our once beloved St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

It was depressing to hear the reports of murder, rape and abduction that occurred over the weekend; adding to the number of gun related incidents, robberies, and other crime that took place recently.

Crime is devastating to our nation because of its adverse and allencompassing effects. It handcuffs our society. The result of crime is that it deters foreign and local investments; it restricts economic growth and lowers the quality of life.

Therefore, The Unity Labour Party (ULP) must take the blame and responsibility for the increase in crime in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Since the ULP was voted into power in 2001, we have seen a significant decline in the social and moral values of our people, increased poverty, economic decline and social inequality, all because of the policies and actions of the ULP administration. All these factors mentioned contribute to the rise in crime that we are now experiencing in our land. And the Minister of National Security has failed to recognize it, and is not doing anything at all to assist to reduce the number of crime that is taking place on a daily basis. Although Vincentians were promised by the ULP in 2001 that it would have been tough on crime and the causes of crime.

Crime and Justice The New Democratic Party (NDP) believes that government’s first responsibility is to protect its citizens by building a strong, safe community.

Therefore, our elected leaders must send the strongest message to people who commit crimes, that they will be caught, prosecuted and appropriately punished. And the law-abiding majority needs to believe that they can live their lives free from fear, knowing that the Criminal Justice System works for them.

The next NDP government will reform the Criminal Justice System including the Police Service, the Attorney General’s Chamber’s, the Judicial System and the Prisons. Our priorities are clear: better prevention and detection of crime, more effective prosecution of criminals, and enhanced rehabilitation to revolving door offenders. We will deliver tough action on drug dealing and crimes of violence, and will strike a better balance between punishment and rehabilitation, and give our police and prosecutors the manpower, tools and financial resources they need to make St. Vincent and the Grenadines a safe and liveable community.

The NDP believes that the following steps should be taken to enhance detection and develop a more responsive and accountable Police Service: the implementation of the Spiritual, Social and Redemption Charter as the prime mechanism to deal with issues pertaining to our emphasis on the prevention of crime; increase police manpower to focus on beat and other patrols, establish visible police presence in communities, especially those with high crime rates; reduce response time by providing at least one police transport to each police station in the rural areas; improve the collection and value of evidence in crime investigation to deal with crime and the causes of crime; establish a crime prevention department; introduce crime stoppers programme, and introduce tougher sentences for sexual offences.

The NDP also believes in pursuing bold initiatives to create a safe society for our people, recognizing that there is no quick fix and no instant solution to the problem. We therefore will address the following initiatives: provide the coastguard with the requisite manpower and technical resources to ensure the safety of our territorial zones; supply chase and pursue vessels; create an independent fire service with substations island wide; review police promotion exams; provide training for police officers, and establish an Intelligence and Counter Intelligence Unit with special focus on our Airports and Seaports to counteract terrorism and drug trafficking.

Moreover, a new NDP government will improve access to justice, decrease the case load on the court system by increasing the number of Magistrates and expanding court facilities, undertake a comprehensive review of the laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines with the assistance of all stakeholders, and improve the capacity of the Family Court.

The next NDP administration will create a progressive prison system that provides prisoners with the tools to turn their lives around; provide adequate training for prison officers, support random drug testing in our prison, and explore the establishment of a Parole System based rehabilitation and skills training.

Rural Development The NDP also sees rural development as a means to reduce poverty. Rural development is defined in a broad, territorial and multisectoral sense. It includes many complementary activities such as an increase in the competitiveness of food production systems, rural social development, sustainable natural resource management, institutional reform and sub-regional economic integration. Rural development can contribute to consolidate economic growth and to obtain greater equity among our people. To achieve this, it is of vital importance to modernise the food and agricultural sectors as part of a regional effort to increase regional competitiveness and improve rural livelihood.

It is also essential to recognize numerous alternatives to reduce rural poverty, like the promotion of agricultural and non-agricultural rural activities, and the creation of social networks for the residents. In addition to this, it is important to recognize the significance of diverse activities used by rural inhabitants in a dynamic way.

The NDP will accelerate development in the rural areas, and narrow the economic gap between the rural and urban areas: improve access to the rural community to better income generating opportunities through various cottage and craft industries; provide better access to the rural community to ICT through Universal Service processes; encourage use of new technologies to improve farming practices; expand and increase credit facilities for agriculture related trade and services activities; further improve the quality of life of the rural population through increasing physical and social infrastructure; and improve rural health and education facilities.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 11.

Views

The Easter Season is here! toys. My favourite was the “Nosey” kite that was made from “coconut pointer” (frame) and “shop paper” (covering).

These were held together using “boiled starch”. We were sometimes amazed at the distances those kites travelled.

Those were some good old days.

It is good to know that some of today’s children still experience THE EASTER SEASON has the thrill of sense of satisfaction arrived. This is the time of year from designing, making, and when the winds tend to be flying kites. constant and relatively strong in In St. Vincent and the the Eastern Caribbean. It is Grenadines (SVG), Easter is kite-flying time. It was really also that time of the year quite a treat to see the when the Yellow Poui (the excitement of the faces of the scientific name is Tabebuia) youngsters at the Dorsectshire comes out in all of its Hill Government School on splendour. There are several Wednesday, April 9, 2014 as prominent areas throughout they engaged in flying their SVG where these trees can be kites at the school premises. found. There is one located They had an ideal location. directly in front of the New Their school is perched on a hill Democratic Party that overlooks the island’s Headquarters in Kingstown capital city, Kingstown. As the (near to the St. Vincent and trade winds move up the fertile the Grenadines Girls’ High valley in that area they provide School). Two can be seen at useful updrafts for the kite flyers the just outside the northern to display their talents as fence at the Arnos Vale designers and flyers. These Airport. And there is a large were not commercial kites; they Yellow Poui at the Grand were “home-made” and quite View Hotel at Villa Point. beautifully designed. The kites While we often associate the appeared to be performing Yellow Poui with Easter we aerial ballet and were of various know that their impressive shapes, sizes, and colours. They blooming also coincides with reminded me of my boyhood the dry season which, in most days when we designed and Caribbean countries, will run made a variety of these winged “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” — The Apostle Paul writing in 1 Corinthians 15:2022

from January to May. In SVG there are a host of other things that we have traditionally associated with the Easter Season. This is the time of year when many of the bakeries will produce Hot Cross Buns. It is often amazing (and some with say “amusing”) that these buns that are often created using the same formula for “regular buns” can be sold at a significantly higher price merely by adding two strips of dough (in the shape of a cross) at the top of the bun or by merely cutting the sign of a cross on the raised surface.

But at Easter the residents in many homes will feel cheated if the hot cross buns are absent.

Throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Easter Season demands a diet of fish (and the absence of meat).

This is especially so on Good Friday. Some families demand menus with mackerel, salmon, smoked herring, and the like. This is also a time of year when the processed starches (e.g. rice and pasta) give way to ground provision.

It is therefore not surprising that the days leading up to the Easter Weekend tend to see market prices for such items as eddoes, yams, dasheen, and sweet potatoes. The market

forces of demand and supply come into play at such times of year.

Sometimes these kinds of activities detract us from the real meaning of the Easter Season. Easter is that time of year when Christian societies remember to death of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

This is the time of year when Christians, followers of Jesus Christ, reflect on the tremendous suffering and death of our Saviour. But we go beyond that. We remember that death could not keep Him down; He rose from dead on the third day after his crucifixion at Calvary. Faith in the resurrected Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith. The Apostle Paul wrote that “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that we was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3b-4). This is what we believe.

In the not too distant past the Easter weekend was considered sacred. In my youth, for example, we were not expected to engage in sporting events or be seen to be engaging in “fun-type activities” on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Those days

were considered holy; they were days when we especially reflected on the suffering, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Unfortunately, many of our local communities now plan sporting events on those days.

And very little attention appears to be given to the reason for the season. As a society, amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, amidst the excitement, let us pause to appreciate the tremendous sacrifice and the demonstration of love, grace, and mercy that that first Easter weekend brought. Let us reflect on the fact that Jesus’ blood that was shed on Calvary’s cross over two thousand years ago still has power to save the vilest of sinners; that blood still has power to was each of us whiter than snow. Yes, the Easter season is here ... and with it renewed hope for all those who will trust in the resurrected Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

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

US group conducts successful medical mission to SVG 25-member group of healthcare professionals conducted the week-long mission to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, from Mar. 24- 28, in collaboration with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Mission of Seventh-day Adventists.

“Seeing the smiles on the faces of the people and listening to their The entire medical and dental team. Pastor Baptiste is at extreme words of gratitude to the right, front row. Dr. Emanuel-Bunn team gave us greatest joy,” she added. “We look is next to him. forward to one day returning to provide

by NELSON A. KING services to the people.” naking@verizon.net; Dr. Emanuel-Bunn, who is neloking@msn.com also a professor at the US CORRESPONDENT University of Phoenix, Arizona, said the team — A BROOKLYN, New Yorkwhich comprised doctors, based medical mission team nurses, dentists, hygienists, has described as very dental students and health successful its inaugural medical mission to St. Vincent educators from Loma Linda University Dental School in and the Grenadines.

“I would say that this was a California — provided free medical services to Vincentian very successful mission,” nationals of all walks of life.

Guyanese-born Dr. Janice The team included Drs. Emanuel-Bunn, president of Alan Woodson, Larry APC (Action, Performance, Halloway, Kim Mathews and Commitment) Community Giddel Thom, and registered Services, Inc. and chair of its nurses Nell Darnley, Lynette Medical Mission Team, told THE VINCENTIAN after the Kowlessar, Caroline Howell

and Conrad Forsythe.

EmanuelBunn said the “warm words of greetings A scene from the health exposition held at the and the air of A scene at the medical clinic Community College, in Villa. excitement” in Georgetown made the team feel symposia and welcomed and “were a fitting Brian Hadaway, owners of the expositions on various start to an exciting and Dorsetshire Hill Apartments, illnesses, such as diabetes, rewarding week of service.” for “the wonderful lodging.” cancer, hypertension, obesity She said the team was She was also grateful to and lifestyle changes that will former Deputy Prime Minister warmly greeted at the E.T. assist in managing disease, Joshua Airport by Pastor and Foreign Affairs Minister, Dermot Baptiste, President of she said.

Sir Louis Straker, a SeventhIt also conducted screenings day Adventist himself, for St Vincent and Grenadines for diabetes, hypertension, Mission of Seventh Day initiating the contact with the high cholesterol, body mass Adventists, and Pastor Seventh-day Adventist index (BMI), peak flow, step Terrence Haynes, Health Mission. test and hydrotherapy.

Ministries Director, and Dr. APC Community Services, In addition, Emanuel-Bunn Inc. Medical Mission was Patterson. said there were nutrition and founded in 2009 “in response Emanuel-Bunn said the team was able to serve a total food demonstrations, dental to the urgent need for quality of 1,396 individuals during the screenings and medical medical care” in Dr. Emanuelcounseling. mission, which took the Bunn’s homeland.

She expressed profound medical and educational Over the past five years, Dr. gratitude to local medical practitioners to various parts Emanuel-Bunn said about practitioners and staff who of the country, including 5,000 patients in Guyana have assisted in the screenings, as Georgetown, Sandy Bay, received free medical care, well as to local Seventh Day Mesopotamia, Calliaqua, courtesy APC Community Adventist officials, who aided Services, Inc., whose mission Kingstown, Buccament, in logistical and other issues.

Barrouallie, Chateaubelair, statement states that “by Additionally, EmanuelBequia and Glen. giving to the poor, we are The group conducted health Bunn thanked Michelle and lending to God.”

V

12. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

IMF concerned about ULPÊs financial incompetence An International Monetary Fund (IMF) document, recently received by the Leader of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan O’Neal, reveals that the IMF is seriously concerned about the ULP regime’s financial incompetence and vagueness of financial data recording.

The IMF has serious concerns with the financing of Argyle Airport. The IMF strongly recommended that the ULP government undertake an economic feasibility study for the airport, given the high cost of the airport, and its potential negative impact on SVG’s debt position. The high level of debt under the incompetent ULP regime has made our economy weak.

In the document, the IMF had also recommended efforts to reduce vulnerabilities to the National Commercial Bank (NCB) and to strengthen financial sector supervision. The IMF was very concerned with the NCB balance sheet, and strongly recommended that the NCB’s exposure to the public sector (ULP government) be reduced.

Unfortunately, the ULP regime ignored the IMF recommendations and killed the NCB in 2008, with a massive bank overdraft of $185 million.

As outlined in the document, the IMF was very concerned with the large discrepancy between the planned allocation and actual disbursement of donor funds, designed to facilitate the transition of the

economy away from banana production.

The IMF appeared to be saying that the ULP government received donor funds to assist banana farmers to diversify away from bananas, but a large amount of this money was not passed on to the farmers. Perhaps the ULP regime can explain to the public where this missing money is?

The IMF was very concerned that, under the incompetent ULP regime, public debt would expand to be more than 100% of GDP. The problem is that this government keeps borrowing money, and fails to create sustainable sources of revenue.

The IMF says that SVG’s statistical database remains weak in terms of coverage, consistency, periodicity and timeliness, and that major improvements are needed to facilitate effective surveillance, particularly in the coverage of national accounts.

The problem with the ULP regime’s vague and inadequate financial data recording, is that it is difficult to see if money is going missing. As the IMF says, effective surveillance of the national accounts is not possible.

Let us not forget, the Director of Audit failed the ULP government in 2008 on the management of the public accounts. The Director of Audit also talked about inadequate financial recording and non-access

Let’s talk agriculture:

Loans, Extension Services and more

ONE CAN NEVER over-emphasize the many risks that exist in agriculture sector, and thus the need for efficient support systems to help minimize the effects of these risks.

Financial support is only one part, though a very important part, of the support systems necessary for the sector to be successful. On the production side, the farmers are often times the ones who take the blame when the sector comes up against problems of disease control, production practices and new technology application. They are accused of not applying themselves enough so as to improve their yield and the quality of their produce. Very little is heard of the lack of performance of the other players in the sector, who must complement the farmers’ efforts if we

are to get it right. Spreading the risk is very important.

Loan Repayment and Extension Services The good news is that the government is putting funds into the sector for ‘unlending’ to farmers, to help them to lift agricultural production. This injection of funds calls for a high level of discipline and execution by farmers so as to ensure that they repay the loans, without any undue hardship on themselves. At the same time, we expect that persons getting the loan will be honest with the lenders.

That said, given the increasing impact of climate change, new pests and the ever present threat of

to the records at the Inland Revenue Department, making scrutiny of public money difficult.

A Green government will bring competent financial management. SVG needs a strong economy for businesses to prosper and for thousands of jobs to be created. A strong economy will only come when the public accounts are competently managed. SVG will never achieve a strong economy under the financially incompetent ULP regime.

Thousands of people in SVG are unemployed and live in dire poverty. Thousands of households have no electricity or water. The poverty and hardship throughout SVG is due mainly to the ULP regime’s financial and economic incompetence. Our people suffer unnecessarily.

Vote Green to bring the change our country so badly needs and the jobs our people so badly want.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

diseases, farmers need to be assured the best Extension Services available, and top quality information on a timely basis, if they are to get the best out of their farms. This is one way of guaranteeing their (farmers’) success; i.e. to make a surplus to enable them to take care of their families, maintain their farm and repay the loan.

Technical Support

enthusiasm and commitments to the sector.

Timely advice and ongoing technical guidance is another condition for our agriculture to be successful.

One failure means we all fail A consultant to another project that had a loan component to it, told me that, “Some technocrats will do all in their power to make a project fail for reasons best known to them.”

I can only hope that, as a people, we are able to see that when one sector fails, all of us fail, and we are all the poorer for it.

We must have confidence in our small farmers and their capacity to manage their farms, and be able to pay back their loans. But, they need the right technical services and good advice on the type of crops to grow for specific markets. They must also be provided with information on production levels. Provision of a holding warehouse, to store excess production, could help in this regard.

An improved farm roads network will also help to move produce quickly and maintain quality of produce.

Most of the crops we grow are important to our health and can help to reduce our medical bills. So let us work together to effect change in agriculture, and make this country a better place.

The loan programme is an important start. Let us now bring the other pieces together.

I am not a scientist, but I am a reader and a thinker.

Some scientists claim that (synthetic) chemical fertilizers can decrease organic matter and alter biological activity which will cause soil structure to decline, resulting in a diminishing water holding capacity, and necessitating an increase in the amount of chemicals needed to feed the plant.

They further claim that high yielding plants were bred to respond fully and quickly to high levels of artificial soluble fertilizers, which they required to be fully productive. They claim the emphasis is on yield in the breeding strategy. This means that the resistance to peat and disease by some traditional (plant) varieties, will be severely compromised, and could be totally broken down with repeat use of the plant varieties and the land area.

Towards combating this, we need a Technical Support Service that is excellent and above normal at all levels. Extension must now lift their game too, retool themselves, read more, study developments in the sector around the world, and apply this knowledge to the local sector.

A new type Extension Service must also be able to inspire the farmers’ Wilberforce Emmanuel

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 13.

Feature

One of the paintings presented to the Association in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Movement. It was done

by Maxanne Rock, a teacher at the J.P. Just a few of the hundreds of photographs that made up the Exhibition.

Eustace Memorial Secondary School.

SVG Girl Guides stage 100th anniversary exhibition

by KENVILLE HORNE

One of the photographs of old. Surely those pictured have grown up but will never forget their days as active Girl Guides.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Girl Guides Association continued their centenary anniversary, with the launch of a Photo Exhibition at their headquarters in Level Garden, Kingstown Park.

The Exhibition was open to the public from Friday 11th to Saturday 12th April, under the theme: ‘Journey through a maze of memories created through the phenomenal experience that is Girl Guiding’.

Among those addressing the launch on Friday were: Bria King, a member of the Photo Exhibition Committee; President of the Girl Guides Mrs. Gwendolyn Russell, former Chief Association, Rene Baptiste; and Chief Commissioner, not only donated photographs Commissioner of the SVG Girl Guides, for display but was appropriately attired for Rechanne Browne-Matthias. her attendance at the launch, last week Friday.

King described the exhibition as one that showcased the many guiding memories that Crystal Robinson spearheaded would have been made over the past 100 years. “It and co-ordinated the 100th was important that we captured the many parades, Anniversary Photo Exhibition. camps, monumental events, and other events that highlighted the essence of what guiding is about,” close as possible, accurate pictorial explained King. accounts of the history of the President Baptiste declared the exhibition to be movement. an historical occasion. “These are events that Chief Commissioner of the SVG Girl Guides, happened before most of the persons in this room Association, Rechanne Browne-Matthias, said the were born,” said Baptiste, as she impressed the has given girls and young women in SVG the historical significance of the photos on display. opportunity to develop their fullest potential, in a Baptiste, a former Minister of Culture, safe environment, and gave the assurance that the highlighted that the lyrics of the National Anthem movement “is very much alive and it is the were written by a Girl Guide, Mrs. Phyllis Punnett. Association’s intention to grow and strive.”

She also thanked former Commissioner and Browne-Matthias singled out Crystal Robinson, President Mrs Gwendolyn Russell and Mr. Albert who spearheaded and coordinated the Photo ‘Jus’ Edwards for their kind donations of Exhibition Committee, recognizing her for her photographs, which went a long way in offering as steadfast commitment to the undertaking.

Some persons who took the time to view the exhibition recognized themselves.

A number of paintings done by young Vincentian men and women and depicting different aspects of the Girl Guide Movement , were presented as commemorative tokens of the 100th anniversary.

The Girl Guides Movement is open to all girls and young women whatever their religion, ethnic group or background. It endeavours to offer a foundation based on spiritual values, the importance of personal development and commitment to helping others.

The movement was started by Rev. Arthur Collis, an Englishman and Methodist Minister in the Georgetown Circuit, in 1914.

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 15.

14. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

SHERNICIAÊS ÂJOURNEYÊ: A spellbinding experience

by GLORIAH… THEY HAD COME TO LEARN about ‘The Journey’. Their excitement peaked when they eagerly assisted the Master of Ceremonies with her countdown, “Three, two one, zero!”

The final digit call was followed by many a resounding “Wow” or an unapologetic “Oh my goodness,” coming from the same audience who had sat rapt at attention as Shernicia Mayers faced her own challenge – to complete a garment within thirty seconds.

They could not believe the final result.

Shernicia had produced Shernicia Mayers working away on her machine an elegant, formal dress (left) towards producing a complete formal wear (right as displayed by a model) in thirty from scratch, and had seconds. fitted it on a waiting model within thirty ‘Atelier Shernicia’ seconds flat. That encapsulated her ‘Journey’! proved, Saturday, 5th Shernicia, short in stature, but explosive in April, 2014, at the her creativity and artistic abilities where Russell’s auditorium, that in fact, her creations fashion is concerned, never fell short. Her easily placed her in the category of genius.

Getting the bride ready for her big day was made to look simple but no less fashionably enticing.

They wanted to be able to use their imagination to figure out how the change would occur. It was not possible. Each ensemble was an art of near perfection. With the first passage down the catwalk, a simple turn or extra step revealed a virtually different garment. The atmosphere was electric, especially as model Sherissa Stowe, showed the possibility of a simple casual shorts and full sleeved top, becoming a superbly elegant dress for a formal evening function.

The journey continues In this “Journey”, Shernicia had outdone all her other journeys . Her patrons had turned up quite elegantly adorned. They had seated themselves and waited. Admittedly, their wait could have been shorter, but by the time the show had commenced and the catwalk was lit up, there was no deficit of amazement, exultation and forthright appreciation.

Shernicia had done her work!

She even chose to up the ante by interludes of music from brilliant saxophonist Kelly Patrick and young song bird Haliah Telesford.

With this journey complete, her journey of life continues, the next step being a concerted effort to showcase her talents at the Paris Fashion week in May. This will be held at Docks, Cite de la Mode et du Design. It surely will be a pleasure for her host Vincent Mc Doom, Artistic Director of La Bo-Ethnik Fashion and Lifestyle; but the credits to Shernicia herself and her capabilities will definitely be tremendous. Maybe, here is where SVG will sashay onto the international fashion landscape.

Apart from the thirty-second show stopper, Shernicia showed innovations that she had crafted along her journey in her Day-to-Night garments. The audience had heard that the A ‘Journey’ in parts pieces were suitable for the fashionista who would prefer to go straight from the office to a Shernicia’s ‘Journey’ took her patrons through eight different lines. She embarked by function, without having to change attire.

They had expected to see some form of sending some trendy, easy-to-wear pieces of ‘separateness’ as they came down the catwalk.

Executive/Work wear down the catwalk in what could be described as ‘intricate simplicity’. These had many an onlooker mentally dressing themselves. Shernicia had literally revisited ‘working colours’ and reinvented colour combinations to arrive at ideally workable pieces.

Her Couture section was an education to the audience. The intricate detail showed a particular patience and a penchant for out-ofthe-box elegance.

Similarly, her Swimwear collection had many a female reorganizing their ideas about what to wear to the beach. An excited young lady at the back was heard to gasp, “Boy, that is awesome!” And ‘awesome’ was indeed an excellent word to describe the other pieces in the collection.

The Lingerie surely pleased, especially as they stylishly hinted at modesty, leaving much to be imagined.

The Casual Wear gave the audience the opportunity to see Shernicia’s indulgence with a variety of body types. Although this was apparent throughout the entire collection, these soft, trendy pieces were definite accents of fashion One of the ‘awesome’ swim wear Even the young ones can be for the fashion lover and the designs that the “journey’ made to look ‘chic’. hesitant enthusiast. offered.

Formality with style.

Players International goes 'Beyond The Rainbow’ by: GLORIAH ANYONE WHO STILL has a problem imagining what lies ‘beyond the rainbow,’ can look forward to some assistance, come Vincy Mas 2014.

That’s when defending Band of the Year title holders present their costume band presentation aptly entitled, ‘Beyond the Rainbow’.

“We have to go beyond the ordinary, and so we ‘Pot of Gold’, an appropriate section with thought of the rainbow which to close the because we wanted the presentation. interaction of the colours to give a spectacular presentation,” explained ‘Venus’, the Morning Star , the Dark Cloud, the section with Lance Neverson, Public brilliant object shining in the which the band will introduce its Relations Officer and east before sunrise. presentation.

Marketing Officer of the but rather expressed the opinion ‘losing’, but in that we had not band, when the band hosted a won. Whoever was winning was that “Carnival is competitive, ‘soft launch’ at the Mahogany not our concern.”

Bar, Murray’s Road, Kingstown, and it is getting stiffer and Neverson affirmed that stiffer. Every year, we are in Saturday 5th April.

Players has always been part of the arena, so we are competing.”

Neverson assured that, as the game, and they intended to He, however, proffered the abstract as the theme is, there is continue being so, “especially sentiment that, “We lost in 2010, a storyline behind the band’s after having reconstituted presentation, to which everyone 2011 and 2012 — three themselves with last year’s 50th consecutive years. In those can relate.

Anniversary band, ‘The Garifuna years, we never considered “Everyone knows about the Story’.

Julian ‘Peling’ Pollard ourselves beaten, downtrodden. rainbow,” he remarked. “The designed this year’s band The band’s headquarters is rainbow,” he said, “is a symbol of We had just lost the competition, situated in Frenches behind the as he has done for the but our main concern was not in peace and hope. The flood was last fourteen years.

Arts and Crafts Shop. intended to rid the world of wickedness and evil-minded people. After it, there appeared a rainbow — a Covenant of God, promising no more entire destruction by flood.”

Expanding on how the concept will unfold, Neverson explained that, before every rainbow, there are dark clouds, and at the end, there is a ‘pot of Fernando Serieux, Bandleader of Tribes Mas gold’.

Band, promises to maintain the standard his “Ten sections of the band, band has set through the years. therefore, will present this story.

VINCENTIAN that the production is It will be introduced with a nonprimarily aimed at depicting aspects of ocean judged section called ‘Dark life.

Clouds’. Then the presentation “This year, we are coming out to make sure will unfold with: ‘Silver Lining that we look good as usual, and that our and Rainbow Children’ the masqueraders are happy,” Serieux said. He promises a high standard which he says the junior band; ‘Venus’ the morning band has displayed consistently throughout star; ‘Aurora’, the dawn; its seven years of involvement in mas here.

‘Sunset’, celestial glory; ‘Green “It is all inclusive, with drinks and food on Flash’, that which is visible just the road,” he assured. by HAYDN HUGGINS around sunset; ‘Blue Skies, The 2014 presentation, which is intended ‘Galaxy of Stars’ ‘New Horizon’; to cater to about 300 masqueraders, will MAS LOVERS WILL have an opportunity to and rounded off with ‘Pot of view the natural wonders of the ocean during include a King and Queen of the Bands and a Gold’. The colours of the Junior Queen. a ‘journey’ with Hairoun Tribes Mas Band, rainbow — red, orange, yellow, “The prices of costumes are very come Vincy Mas 2014. green, blue, violet and indigo — The production ‘Oceanic Journey’, which is affordable,” Serieux assured, and urged persons requiring further information to expected to be launched in May, features will colour the costumes,” contact him at tel. no. 532-5740. seven sections designed by Solomon ‘Realist’ Neverson promised.

The mas camp is located opposite the La Borde.

When questioned about the Ministry of Agriculture at Richmond Hill.

The adult sections are Ocean Marbles, mas band’s chances of repeating Serieux expressed gratitude to the band’s Gems of Atlantis, Ocean Glaze, Ocean victory in Mardi Gras masqueraders, sponsors, mas camp workers Creatures and Dragon Fish, while those for competition this year, PRO and all who have supported the band over the the children are Keepers of the Abbis and Neverson stayed away from years, and looks forward to their continued Mermaid Princess. naming an expected position, support.

Band leader Fernando Serieux told THE

Journey to the Ocean with Tribes

16. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V Bar president requests more judges

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 17.

News

contacted Baptiste shortly after she disclosed at the close THE SHORTAGE OF High Court of the Criminal Assizes on Judges here may soon be Tuesday, that she had spoken addressed. to the relevant authorities and President of the LocalBar made a request for the Association (SVGBA), Rene appointment of three High Baptiste, told THE Court Judges, two to deal with VINCENTIAN on Tuesday civil matters and one to that she made a request at a handle criminal cases. meeting with the Prime She, however, indicated Minister and Minister of Legal that one of those civil Judges Affairs, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, should also preside over and Attorney General Judith criminal matters.

Jones-Morgan, for the The Judicial and Legal appointment of three High Services Commission (JLSC), Court Judges. of which Senior High Court Baptiste revealed that the Judge Frederick Bruce-Lyle is Legal Affairs Minster urged a member, is responsible for the AG to take up the matter the appointment of Judges in immediately. the OECS. However, the Chief The Bar President assured Justice is responsible for she would speak to the AG assigning Judges to the after the Easter break, to territories. The Judges are ascertain “what progress is paid by the OECS from the made.” financial contributions made THE VINCENTIAN had by the member countries.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Justice Bruce-Lyle is the only Judge currently dealing with criminal matters here, while Justice Cynthia Combie Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle will Rene Baptiste, President of proceed on some much needed is the only civil judge. the SVG Bar Association, and deserved vacation leave.

Bruce-Lyle is expected to has already met with the proceed on 249 days of Grenadines is the only OECS Minister of Legal Affairs and vacation leave from May 2, country which has a Serious the Attorney General to and a High Court Judge is Offences Court that deals address the matter of expected to be here from early strictly with Preliminary increasing the number of May to July 31.

Inquiries, as well as gunjudges in SVG. At the close of the Assizes related and drug-related on Tuesday, Bruce-Lyle manageable level. matters. stressed the need for four Past President of the local He explained that by the permanent Judges, two to Bar Association, Kay Bacchustime 20 cases are disposed of preside over criminal matters at the Criminal Assizes, there Browne, had also made a call simultaneously, and two to do is another 20 on the list. for four full-time Judges civil cases simultaneously. during an interview with THE He noted that Antigua has “It is becoming humanly VINCENTIAN March 26. It four High Court Judges, impossible for one Judge to do Grenada has three and St. was carried on page 4 of the criminal and one Judge to do March 28 edition under the Lucia has three. civil in light of what is headline, ‘Time for four full Bruce-Lyle recalled that happening to the development during the tenure of Justice time judges’. of the society in this day and Only five of the 66 cases Wesley James and himself, age,” he said. listed for hearing at the they were able to reduce the The Senior Judge pointed recently concluded Assizes backlog of cases to a out that St. Vincent and the were completed.

V

18. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Ex-netball star receives AwardÊ

represented the nation in netball for 14 consecutive years.

Bailey-Marks had played under BoyeaFORMER NATIONAL NETBALL star Karen Ashby’s captaincy Bailey-Marks last Sunday, Palm Sunday, from 1978-80. received the ‘Women Celebrating Women “It’s great, I was Award’ at a gala ceremony honoring quite surprised; it’s a phenomenal Caribbean and other women wonderful feeling,” in New York City, in commemoration of Bailey-Marks told Women’s History Month.

THE VINCENTIAN Bailey-Marks, who hails from Mt. after receiving the Pleasant, Mesopotamia , was among award. “I was amazed 17 illustrious women honored by the at the calibre of Brooklyn, New York-based Progressive people they were Democrats Political Association honoring.

Karen Bailey-Marks (2nd from R) receives award.

(PDPA), a prominent political group “Recently, a Others in photo, L-R: Dr. Una Clarke, Veronica headed by the trail-blazing, former family member died, Phillips, of Belvedere, and US Congresswoman Yvette New York City Councilwoman, and I was feeling D. Clarke, Dr. Clarke’s daughter.

Jamaican-born Dr. Una Clarke. depressed,” she The event, which took place at added, referring to her brother, Alwin situations can get in New York for Tropical Paradise Ballroom, on Utica Bailey, who died in a truck accident at young people,” Bailey-Marks continued. “Some of them need Avenue in Brooklyn, marked PDPA’s home. He was 54. rescuing.”

22nd annual gala.

“But the honor revived my spirit, She said she tutors young women in Bailey-Marks, in her 50s, was and I just want to continue trying to Brooklyn in math, and gives them a nominated by former national netball reach as many young women as “listening ear,” while teaching them to captain Stella Boyea-Ashby, a past possible to keep them off the streets, become leaders. recipient of the award, who because I know how desperate In addition, she said she coaches them in netball as well as provides a “safe haven” for young adults in her Brooklyn community.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

Karen Bailey-Marks giving acceptance speech.

Ex-national netball captain Stella Boyea-Ashby (R) escorting ex-netball star Karen Bailey-Marks.

other sports, including soccer at the junior college level. But her passion was always for netball.

In 1996, she said she stepped beyond the role of player and tried her hand at coaching.

Starring at an early age Bailey-Marks, who has received Bailey-Marks, who represented the several awards for her national netball team, primarily in the accomplishments in sports at home and in the US, holds a bachelor’s center and wing attack positions, is degree in accounting from Baruch the founder and coach of Islanders Sports Club, a Brooklyn-based netball College, City University of New York, and works as a Staff Accountant for team, founded in 1996, comprised Mitsubishi International Corp. in predominantly of Vincentian Manhattan. nationals. The team competes in the She is married to Michael Marks, Caribbean American Netball also from Mesopotamia, and has two Association (CANA) championship in adult children, Trisha and Sean.

Brooklyn. She’s also a CANA board member.

Why and who Bailey-Marks said it was hard to say exactly when she developed a Boyea-Ashby said she was delighted great love for netball, but added that it was no secret that the sport, played to nominate Bailey-Marks for the award, stating: “I recommended her mainly by women, “became a way of because of all the things she has been life” for her. doing — keeping young people from the She said she began learning the streets. She also runs netball.” game at eight; and, just four years Dr. Clarke’s daughter, United later, was selected to represent St. States Congresswoman Yvette D. Vincent and the Grenadines, joining Clarke, a PDPA executive member and some women who had been playing honorary chairperson of the event, the game for much longer than her delivered the feature address at the then age.

“Imagine a pre-teen standing at just over four-hour-long ceremony.

According to Dr. Clarke, the first above four feet tall defending a goal Caribbean-born woman to ever hold shooter who is over six feet tall and, elective office in New York City, the as if by some form of magic, was able honorees were selected from a wide to steal incoming passes,” Baileyrange of fields, including education, Marks said. healthcare and non-profit.

Her passion for netball, motivated “It is our most important event each her to found her own team in Mesopotamia at 17. She continued to year,” she told THE VINCENTIAN in an exclusive interview. “We honored represent the nation until her women who’ve made significant migration to the United States, two contributions to the development of years later. the community in all aspects of life.”

Migration did not deter her from continuing to play netball and a few

V The Judas Spirit

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 19.

Message

JUDAS’S OUTWARD SIN was the betrayal of his friend when he sold Jesus out to His enemy. But the thinking and attitude that motivated this treacherous action was the root of the problem. Judas may have thought that he had forsaken his business and sacrificed opportunities to advance himself over the last three years, by following Jesus daily. He may have gotten the impression from Jesus’s teachings and agenda, that his personal dreams weren’t going to be fulfilled. He may have also thought that following Jesus would advance his position, power and prestige, but this to him had proven wrong.

Consequently, Judas probably built up in his own mind a case for feeling justified in taking the action he did. It appeared to him as if Jesus had misled him and would not fulfil His word to them. Hence, he could have reasoned that he would make at least thirty pieces of silver profit for service rendered for the past three years. In his thought, he deserved something for the years of

sacrifice and service he had given to Jesus.

Satan’s first step in developing the Judas spirit in people is to convince them that the leadership they had been serving is not living up to the promises made to them. Such thinking allows a sense of justification for betraying friendship and selling out to the enemy for personal gain.

They convince themselves that the leadership and others are neither understanding nor beneficial.

The Judas Spirit begins in the tiny weed seed of feeling that we must be rewarded immediately for every service rendered, and given cognition or a high position for time and money spent. It starts with the attitude that I deserve better for services rendered.

Selfishness is the root of this Judas type of attitude and action. Self-centredness is what nourishes this spirit. To effectively deal with this mentality, we must lay the axe to truth at the root of this tree, rather than waste time merely pruning the branches.

Maligning others for position and promotion, disloyal acts, objectification and exploitation of others, dishonesty and malicious sowing of discord, are among other branches of this tree. These sinful manifestations are the blades growing above the ground. The Judas Spirit is the root system underground. We may cut away the blade of grass, but they will grow back again and again until the underlining root system is destroyed.

Peter faced circumstances similar to those of Judas. He left his fishing business and his family to follow Jesus.

When Jesus was arrested, he also became discouraged and disillusioned, even to the extent of denying his leader and Lord. Yet, Peter repented when he realised he had spoken immaturely and had acted wrongly toward Jesus.

Judas’s story ends in the awful disgrace of suicide. Hounded by guilt, and unable to live with the consequences of his action, he chose this rather lonely and unfortunate death.

By Bishop Sonny E. Williams – Presiding Bishop Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies, St. Vincent and the Grenadines District

We too may have done foolish things when under pressure, fear and confusion, especially when we see all our hopes and dreams falling apart around us. When this happens, do we follow the example of Peter or Judas?

Like Peter, we must admit wrong-doing, and like the prodigal son in Jesus’s

parable, turn away from this attitude and accept a servant’s attitude.

The Pentecost Assemblies of the West Indies, St. Vincent and the Grenadines District encourages all to take careful consideration of this message, and wishes you a blessed Easter season.

V

20. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

CBA moves to assist CDC CBA’s agenda.

“After a thorough review of these matters, we took a decision that it CHAIRMAN of the Carnival Bands Association (CBA), Hugh Ragguette, has would not be possible for us to participate in the launch, and if we made it clear that the decision by its did not participate, it would save the members for mas bands not to participate in the May 3 launch of Vincy CDC a few thousand dollars,” Mas 2014, is not a boycott of the event. Ragguette explained.

In fact, the CBA chairman said that The move, according to Ragguette, is to assist the Carnival Development at a general meeting last December, before the floods, the CBA took a Corporation (CDC) in cost cutting decision to advance two proposals for measures. reducing the expenses of the CDC, and “We want to do our part towards assisting the CDC in reducing overall those proposals were presented to the CDC in January. cost this year. We are not in the Ragguette added that following the business of boycott,” Ragguette told launch of Vincy Mas 2013, the CBA THE VINCENTIAN when contacted had looked in great detail at the on Monday.

“As we stated in our memorandum present format of the annual launch, and concluded that there should be to the CDC on this matter, the CBA remains committed to maintaining the fundamental change. He cited one of the specifics as being its competitive glory, splendour and spectacle of the aspect, which should be removed. masquerade art form,” he declared.

This, he said, would result in savings.

Ragguette explained that at its “Whenever they (CDC) wish to monthly general meeting in March, discuss this matter seriously, we have the CBA looked at the overall our recommendations to make”, situation as it relates to St. Vincent Ragguette contended. and the Grenadines, particularly in At a recent news conference, CDC light of the December floods, the declared that it was $300,000 in the CDC’s financial position and the red.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Hugh Ragguette, Chairman of the CBA (left), seen here in the company of veteran mas band leader Melborne Constance, has moved to clear the air surrounding ‘rumours’ of a boycott of a CDC event by mas bands.

Leisure

Aries - (Mar. 21- April 20) Involvement in groups will be favorable and lead to valuable information. You may find yourself in an opportune position if you are willing to take a bit of a risk. Make changes to your living quarters that will please the whole family.

Libra - (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don’t prejudge. You may get drawn into a personal situation that will not be to your liking. You will learn easily if you put forth an effort. You will have to check your cash flow before you decide to indulge in hobbies or entertainment that may be beyond your budget.

Taurus - (Apr. 21- May 21) Be careful not to show your temper when dealing with the boss.

Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are evident. You may want to take another look at the investment you are about to make.

Scorpio - (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You might not be as reserved on an emotional level as you’d like. You may want to take extra special care of your luggage if you are traveling this week.

Attend trade shows that will allow you to look at new products. Don’t be too quick to respond to a plea for help.

Gemini - (May 22-June 21) Passion is about the best way for you to relieve tension. Get out and experience the spice of life. You can’t always have your own way. A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy.

Sagittarius - (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Try to curb your habits, or you could find yourself in an awkward financial position. If you take on too much, you will find your self in martyrdom.

Opportunities for partnerships are present; but get every detail in writing.

Cancer - (June 22-July 22) Now is the time to concentrate on building a strong financial future for your family. Good day for romance.

Sudden romantic infatuations could lead to a significant and prosperous connection.

Capricorn - (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Romance is quite possible if you are willing to approach someone who interests you. Organize all the responsibilities that have to be attended to and make sure everyone knows what to do.

Leo - (July 23-Aug 22) Your positive attitude and intellectual outlook will draw others to you. Listen to the complaints of others. You may find it necessary to confront a situation that has gotten out of hand. Loss is evident if you don’t consider all the angles.

Aquarius - (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Residential moves will be favorable, and larger quarters the most probable direction. You can raise your standard of living if you pick up some freelance work on the side. You can finish projects early, which will bring you praise from superiors.

Virgo - (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don’t be shy to promote your own interests. You will find that social activities will be enjoyable and will promote new connections. Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation.

Pisces - (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Do not over expand if you have your own business. Sit tight. Your mate could get on your nerves if he or she backs you into an emotional comer or puts restrictions on your time. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand.

ACROSS

49. Whole 53. Rever1. Sis, for one berate 4. Crooner 54. Enter“King” Cole tainer 7. Yodeler’s Zadora mountain 55. Lincoln 10. Cheese from and Holland Burrows 12. Has to pay 56. Roe source 14. Glop 57. Author 15. Entertainer Stevenson’s Falana Monogram 16. Hamburger 58. Vietnamese order New Year (hyph.)

59. Stop __ 18. Recoil dime 20. Big fib (2 wds.

21. Cookie from Nabisco DOWN 23. Tabasco measure 1. Inner person 26. Standar2. False god dized 3. “_- Ha’I” 29. Table 4. Not expander anyplace 31. “__ so 5. Impress fast…”

6. Narrate 32. Singer 7. Gone by Bailey 8. Actor 35. NYC transit Chaney org.

9. Edgar Allan 36. Exclusively __ 38. Indiana 11. “The __ a native Thousand 40. Designer Faces” Cassini (2 wds.)

42. “Stat!”

13. Slipped 43. Tupperware 17. Distribute top cards 45. Ridiculous- 19. Yield at ness harvest

22. Nebraska metropolis 24. Truck type 25. Extreme animosity 26. __, dos, tres…

27. “Don’t!”

(2 wds.)

28. “__ cost you!”

30. Near’s opposite 33. Most optimistic 34. Take a __ off 37. Bark 39. Undercover agents 41. __

monster 44. Unpaid bill 46. Eight, to Eduardo 47. “Supercop” star Jackie 48. “Star Wars”

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 21.

creature 49. Lifesaving skill (abbr.)

50. Engine lubricant 51. Barker and Kettle 52. Casual shirt

22. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 23.

Controversy envelops local Cricket

suggestions that he should have made a note and spoken to the player and the SVG Cricket Association, after the match.

According to Davis, the nephew of former West Indies fast bowler, Winston Davis, there is nothing in the rule that says he cannot call the bowler, if he so chooses.

Colbert McDowald called Fast bowler Ray Jordan, Davis also dismissed Jordon on a previous called for ‘throwing’. suggestions that the call occasion. should have been made by the end umpire to ensure the fairness of a delivery, in this been in the best position to square leg umpire since he may not have been in the best respect there is nothing in the make the call, and if he had position to have made the call Law to debar the bowler’s end seen anything that would have raised alarm with the bowler’s while at the presiding end and umpire from calling and signalling ‘No Ball’, if he action. he would have had difficulty Umpire Roger Davis goes by considers that the ball has Jordan, who was the West doing so while looking at the the book. been thrown.

Indies top bowler and one of popping crease, the bowler’s

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT While officials and players the top fastbowlers in the arm and the path of the have suggested that in order recent Youth World Cup in delivery.

“I am not operating under ICC to avoid humiliating players, Dubai, was among a batch of “I was standing seven feet regulations…I am operating by from the stumps and that gave umpires should act with more bowlers who subsequently the Laws of the Game.” went to Australia to have me a clear view of the bowler’s sensitivity, Davis indicated that it was not about some remedial and fine tuning action, and humiliating anyone or being work done on their action and, while some insensitive, it was about according to local cricket people may applying the Laws of the officials, ‘he was given the all want to say it Game. He also pointed out clear’. was But Davis appears to set premeditated, I that he had called other simply say that players before and like he did little store by those results. with Jordan before, he had “What happened in was not the GROUNDSMEN warned all of them when he Australia has nothing to do case, and the ATTACHED to the had cause to scrutinise their with me……this (is) here laws give me Arnos Vale Sporting action before making the ontoday and I called him”. that authority,” Complex, the National field call.

When THE VINCENTIAN he argued.

Sports Council and Colbert McDowald, the contacted some senior local Law 24.2 the National Lotteries other umpire in the match, cricket officials (two of whom Ken Crafton, head sates: ‘For a Authority are now also called Jordan in a recent were at the match) they all delivery to be Groundsman at better equipped to seemed shocked by the fair in respect trial match here, and when Beausejour prepare and maintain asked why as the square leg development, and promised to of the arm, the Cricket Stadium, cricket pitches, umpire, he did not make the see how best to deal with the ball must not Ken Crafton(2nd from right) St. Lucia was the following a one-day call this time, his response matter. be thrown.’ making a point to the seminar seminar with Ken was to point to the Law which “How can Roger do that to Although it groundsmen during the practical facilitator.

Crofton, Head said that anyone of them could a young man?” asked SVG is the primary session.

Groundsman at the have made the call. He, senior team manager Elvis to develop good responsibility Beausejour Cricket players as well as of the strikers’ however, refused to give a firm ‘Bagga’ Browne upon hearing the region, most of the Stadium, St Lucia. answer of who would have the news. groundsmen have a basic better players.”

Crafton, the leading The Arnos Vale idea, but I think in the groundsmen in the Playing Field will be a area of pitch OECS sub-region, and venue for a West Indiesmaintenance, I believe who has conducted Bangladesh test match similar sessions in other that’s where we fall THIS COUNTRY’S U-15 national Playing against Grenada at the in September this year. short, so that’s was the countries in the region cricket team will be hoping they can Mindoo Phillips Park, the Vincentians Crafton intimated main area I focused on said he was pleased to be come away with a win in the went under by 5 wickets. SVG won that the preparation of given the opportunity to during the session”, he Windward Islands U-15 Tournament the toss and decided to bat. They the pitch for that match explained. impart his knowledge. when they face Dominica. were bowled out for 109 in 48.4 overs. will be done over an Asked about the “I have gotten training The SVG youngsters went down in Opening batsman Dave Duncan top eight to ten week period. importance of proper from outside of the their first two encounters, against St. scored with 28 not out. Melchizedek A total of 17 preparation of pitches, region at an ICC Lucia and Grenada, in the Matthew with 4 for 26, and Shermill groundsmen Crafton said, “The workshop, on pitch Tournament being played in St. Lucia. Lewis 3 for 29 were Grenada’s best particicpated in the preparation of pitches preparation and In their first match against St bowlers. Grenada replied with 111 for seminar 15. maintenance in Dubia in from the grassroot level Lucia, the local boys lost by 69 runs at 5 in 26.5 overs. Obadellie Joseph led from the NSC along up to test match is also 2012, so it’s all about Gros Islet. St. Lucia batted first and with 35 not out. Roshorn John was with two from the very crucial for the sharing the experience posted 170 in 44.1 overs. Dane SVG’s best bowler with 2 for 26.

National Lotteries development of youth on what I do every day Edwards top scored with 56 and Jard The Vincentians were expected to Authority took part in players. I have seen in St Lucia,” Crafton Goodman 35. Rashorn John took 3 for face defending champions Dominica on the theory and practical cricket played on pitches said.

20, Robertson Young 3 for 43 and Wednesday the 16th April at the Crafton explained that and conditions which are session at the Arnos Urnel Thomas 2 for 27 for SVG. SVG, Mindoo Phillip Park. Scores were not Vale Sporting Complex not good and will not his focus here was on in reply, were dismissed for 101 off available up to press time. develop our players and I last Friday. pitch preparation and 29.1 overs.

Dave Duncan top scored think good pitch maintenance. with 17. Shakym Scott took 4 for 23 I.B.A.ALLEN I.B.A.ALLEN ‘When looking around preparation would help and Simeon Gerson 3 for 23.

THESE WERE THE WORDS of first class cricket umpire, Roger Davis, as he responded to a question after calling West Indies U19 fast bowler, Ray Jordon, for ‘an illegal delivery’.

Davis, presiding umpire, called Jordan while the young West Indies speedster was operating from the Bequia End at the Arnos Vale Playing Field Sunday morning, in the match between Victors One, Jordan’s team, and Guardian General Saints.

It was the third time that Davis was calling the bowler for an illegal action, and felt justified in making yet another time.

“I am going by this little blue book (The laws of the Game 2013 Edition) and not by playing conditions, as regulations set out by the ICC,” he said while rebutting

Local groundsmen get training

SVG U-15 looking for a win

V

24. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Saints thrash Victors One amid controversy Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT Guardian General Saints gave a clear indication of being serious title contenders after inflicting a humiliating innings defeat on joint defending champions, Victors One, at the main Arnos Vale Playing Field on Sunday.

Scores: Victors One 169 &63, Guardian General Saints 258.

The Kenroy Peters-led unit, boasting a combined total of 16 players who had represented the national team and the Windwards at various levels, appeared the hungrier and more focused of the teams.

Their task was made even easier when Victors One batted with only eight men in their second innings, after two players took matters into their own hands, taking themselves out of the game following a disagreement with the umpire and refusing to go to the crease.

Faced with a deficit of 89, Victors One were shot out for 63 with leftarm pacer Peters 3/10 and off spinner Romel Currency 3/9 returning figures which may very well flatter to deceive.

It was the first innings defeat inflicted on Victors One by Guardian General Saints, and one which was appreciated

by Windwards batting find Sunil Ambris.

“This is one of my sweetest victories……if it is one team I wanted to beat like this is Victors……it feels real good…..ha ha ha ha,” an overjoyed Ambris told THE VINCENTIAN. Victors One’s captain, Donwell Hector, admitted that his team did not play well, but felt that some longstanding bad blood between umpire Roger Davis and the Victors One team may have soured the match from early.

Davis could be seen from early in the match, to be in constant agitated exchanges with the Victors One batsmen and later on, when they took to the field late on Saturday. However, it was on Sunday morning that things got out of hand when Davis, while

standing at the presiding end, called West Indies youth team pacer Ray Jordan for throwing - the third time in as many seasons he had done so.

(See story on page 23).

This resulted in Jordan and Lauron Francois, with whom Davis had been involved in a shouting match on Saturday, leaving the field.

Earlier, playing without the services of opener Miles Bascombe and top allrounder Alston Bobb, Victors One, who were asked to take first knock, were dismissed for 169, with Francois, who batted with an injured leg, hitting the top core of 64 which included ten fours.

Shacquille Browne was unbeaten on 29, as Peters 4/31 and Currency 3/46 shared the wickets.

Guardian General Saints were then helped to 258, thanks to

Currency (79) and Ambris (60) who came together after the pacey Jordan and Norlan Williams had made early inroads. Ambris, who admitted to being stunned by the pace of Jordan Saturday afternoon, struck ten fours. Currency, who batted for the most part in the absence of the speedster, struck eight fours, one five and one six.

“It is the quickest bowling I have faced……I never saw the first ball…..he was quick out there,” he said at the close of play on Saturday.

Off spinner Kenneth Denbar (4/86) and Leg spinner Kieron Cottoy (3/69), led the Victors One bowling, as they have done a season ago.

The win pushes Guardian General Saints to the top of the standings with 98 points,

Lauron Francois drives through the offside during his innings of 64 for Victors One. Romel Currency (79) looks on anxiously at the action on the field of play while waiting for his turn at the crease. with a match against Carl Joseph Law Chambers ASCO their only remaining fixture. Second Sunil Ambris plays to leg during his half century. place Team Rivals are on 88 Radcliffe to come.

Team Rivals and each with matches against Radcliffe (63) and Victors other to play.

Victors One and LIME One (60), both have

SVG U-16 netballers finish third The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association will have to embark on a recruitment drive for taller U-16 players if they are to compete with perennial champions, Jamaica, in the Caribbean Netball Association-CNA- Jean Pierre U-16 tournament, according to manager of the team Doris McIntosh.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN upon the team’s return home after placing third in the tournament in Antigua, McIntosh said that the Jamaicans were head and shoulders above every team, by way of the standard of play and size of players.

“The Jamaican girls are very tall and it is almost impossible for our girls to jump with them…..it is hard to beat them as things stand at the moment,” she said, trying to be hopeful.

SVG lost to Barbados 20/30, St. Kitts 24/25 and Jamaica 62/12, but McIntosh believes that the Jamaica game was the only game that the team should have lost.

“We were leading St. Kitts by five goals at the end of the third quarter and came back to lose

that game by a single goal. That should never have happened …but the girls are young and the pressure just got the better of them,” she said.

McIntosh blamed the loss against three-time winners Barbados on what she described as “a bad second quarter” during which SVG had a series of turn overs at crucial stages. After closing the first quarter 3/7 behind, the Vincentians saw their opponents score 10/3 to end the second period with a 17/6 advantage, from which they never recovered —going on to lose 20/30.

The Vincentians, winners in 1999 when Jamaica opted out, recorded victories over Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago and St. Lucia on their way to the third place.

They, however, found the Jamaicans too much of a handful and this was reflected on the scorecard, with the champions romping to a 62/13 triumph with quarter scores of 14/5, 30/8, 46/11.

McIntosh said the third place finish was the first trophy brought home by a SVG team in

The SVG U-16 team pose with third place trophy at E.T Joshua Airport. Manager Doris McIntosh is pictured at extreme right. six years in that competition, when the 2008 team also placed third.

The Vincentians came away with some individual success, with Yanneisha Scipio placing third in the Shooting Competition, while Tamara Matthews got MVP for Team SVG. And three players, Tamara Matthews, Khadija Williams and Nerissa Delpesche, were named in a sixteen-member squad from the tournament.

Jamaica have won ten titles, Barbados three and SVG one.

The Jean Pierre Youth Netball Championship (named after the renowned International Netballer, the late Jean Pierre of Trinidad & Tobago), is staged annually, by the Caribbean Netball Association (CNA), according to information on the CNA website.

It said that history records of the tournament, which began in 1998, have shown “that this event is the nursery of the sport in the region and that over 70% of the players who participate in this event move on to

(L-R) Tamara Matthews and Khadija Williams, two of the three SVG players who gained selection to the CNA Under-16 squad. represent their respective countries at the Under-21 and Senior National Level”.

The event is also used to ‘groom’ officials in preparation for international events, the cite added.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 25.

Sports

IPL rolls out ACTION in the Indian Premier League is in full swing. This year, there is subdued sponsorship engendered by uncertainty over the venue for the second half of the Indian Premier League, economic slowdown, clash with federal elections and the controversies that have emanated from the corruption scandal last year. There are also fewer teams than last year.

The final will be at the Wankhede stadium Mumbai June 1. By then, 59 matches would have been played. The first part will be in the United Arab Emirates.

A number of West Indians will be featured this year. To what extent will they be on show is left to be seen Chris Gayle is lined up with Royal Challengers Bangalore along with his West Indian mate Ravi Rampaul. Chennai Super Kings have Dwayne Bravo, Dwayne Smith and Samuel Badree on their roster.

Keiron Pollard will be keen to rekindle his form so that the world is not lost on his big hitting prowess.

He will have Krishnar Santokie in his squad. How often will Santokie be on the field is anyone’s guess.

Kolkata Knight Riders are happy with the wiles of Sunil Narine to do their bidding, but Andre Russell will be anxious to show his talent on the field of play.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will feature West Indians Darren Sammy and Jason Holder.

The exposure of these West Indians augurs well for the future of regional cricket. In addition to the foreign exchange from which the region will benefit, the inclusion of these players on the international stage will serve as some source of motivation for other youngsters.

If we are honest, we will appreciate that whatever fingers are pointed at the players, any opportunity to compete internationally will add to their all-round performances.

It is a pity that the regional four day finals coincides with the build up to the IPL. Windwards are trying to enter the final. But they have to overcome Trinidad and Tobago in Trinidad.

The Windwards will have to put aside the division that is obvious in the squad, and play as a unit if they are to advance.

Their final preliminary round match produced a pathetic display. They have to lift their game and be at their utmost best if they have to beat the Trinidadians at home.

Once the Windwards are on cue, they can handle their opponents. But they have to score runs.

Our batting shows too much fragility. Once someone comes on and pretends to be bowling slowly, Windwards go into a tail spin.

It is a sad indictment on our part that we are yet to come to terms with slow bowling. There seems to be a lack of discipline and application.

Once weaknesses are identified, it is up to the individuals to correct those deficiencies. Devon Smith is the Windwards’ leading batsman. His returns however do not inspire eternal confidence. He seems to have lost his appetite not only for big innings but also for staying long in the wicket.

West Indian batsmen, maybe spoiled by the diet of T/20 cricket, have abandoned the art of playing long innings.

T/20 may be viewed as fun cricket. It has the potential of sharpening batsmen’s awareness of their role at the crease.

While the IPL winds down, focus will be on the New Zealand visit to the West Indies. That will be a contest to see which team moves up in the ICC Test ranking.

There is the spectre of the Bangladesh Test at the Arnos Vale Playing Field in September.

This will be the second time that Bangladesh is playing Test cricket at Arnos Vale. The previous occasion, it was a scrambled outfit, for a strike hit West Indies Board.

Vincentian fans will be hoping that no such occurrences highlight this exercise.

But that is cricket, and some people say life is like cricket. So one never knows what to expect.

Samuel, Vanloo vanquish Young Warriors FORMER national left hand batsman Sylvester Vanloo and Leon Samuel displayed good batting form to help Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors triumph over Young Warriors at Buccament, in the National First Division 55/55 overs Sunday league cricket competition, on the weekend.

Young Warriors took first knock and made 194 in 37 overs.

Earl Jack top scored with 44 and Leon Quashie 39. Joesph Mofford bagged 6 for 49. Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors in reply were boosted by a stroke filled 95 from Samuel and 69 from Vanloo, while Bill Edwards hit 31, as they reached 264 for 8 off 29.3.

In other matches, Police

Three were dismissed for 54 in 22.3 by Victors Two. Damal Phillips took 4 for 16 and Leon Samuel, 85, The evergreen Damal Nash 4 for 22. Victors Sylvester Vanloo top scored in Two replied with a massive contributed 69 to Ruddy 218 in 29.4 overs. Hank Hall Ruddy’s Electrical Electrical’s led with 35, Orlando Guirola victory. successful 31 and Damal Phillips 31. victory chase.

Combined In the Neil Williams Youths replied Academy- Triumph United with 217 off 55.2 overs. Nickie Cricket Club “B” clash, Ian Allen Antoine took 5 for 32 and Marlon hit a top score of 20 to help the Farrell 3 for 26 for Combined Academy to 72 in 21.5 overs.

Youth. Frankie Farrell hit 33 and Hesron Sam 4 for 15. Triumph Jordan Samuel 29 to lead closed on 145 in 33.3 overs.

Hesron Sam returned with the bat Combined batting with Imran to hit 28. Cadigia Davis took 3 for Smith, 5 for 47, and Antos Wright, 3 for 32, among the wickets for 31. the losers.

Team Rivals Two made 91 off 16.2 overs but was no match for I.B.A.ALLEN

Barrouallie bags another national football title Barrouallie’s Under-18 footballers showed that they were the best unit in their age group, when they bagged the National Community Inter League championships last Friday night, at the Victoria Park.

Barrouallie had copped the Under-17 versions staged in 2012 and 2013.

It was not necessarily a walk in the park for Barrouallie, whose core featured a number of the leading national footballers in that age grouping in the island, as they matched skills with the talented Layou team.

Barrouallie’s Kyle Edwards was on the score sheet as early as the 12th minute. Another in national limelight, Oalex Anderson, doubled Barrouallie’s lead in the 35th minute.

Anderson completed his brace in the 55th minute, ensuring a comfortable lead for his team.

Layou though, had other ideas and threw everything at

Barrouallie, champions of Under-18 football in SVG. Barrouallie. A Dennis Prescott South Leeward, prior to last goal in the 74th minute opened Friday’s final, overcame West the door for Layou. Prescott Kingstown 3-1 to cop the third converted a penalty in the 77 place. minute to further cut the deficit.

South Leeward’s goals were Barrouallie dug deep and held scored by Rolando Maxwell - 26th firm to win 3-2 and lift another minute; Jarrel Mc Master - 46th football title. minute and Nyron Delpesche In the semi-finals, Barrouallie 56th minute. flattened West Kingstown 3-0 and Masque Herbert had restored Layou edged out South Leeward, parity briefly in the 39th minute one-nil. for West Kingstown.

SVG dominates swim meet in St. Lucia Over 350 swimmers representing 14 swim clubs from five Caribbean countries particicpated in the 15th annual RHAC Championships held in St Lucia April 10th to 13th, 2014.

St Vincent and the Grenadines, represented by two clubs, Black Sands Swim Squad (BSSS) and Blue Marlins (BM), produced its best ever results at a major swim meet.

Blacksands swimmers produced outstanding performances and were led by Nikolas Sylvester, Shane Cadogan, Shné Joachim, Alexander Joachim and Dillon Gooding.

Nikolas Sylvester, swimming in the boys 13 to 14 year-old age group, was the overall Champion in his age group. He won a total of 8 gold medals, 7 silver medals and 1 bronze medal, and broke five national St Lucia records, several of which had stood for more than ten years. He also placed second in the Sprint challenge.

Shane Cadogan was the overall

Champion in the 11 to 12 year group. He won a total of 3 gold medals, 6 silver medals and 6 bronze medals. Shane broke one national St Lucia record and one meet record.

Shné Joachim, competing in the 13 to 14 years age group, was the Top SVG swimmers at the 15th annual overall Champion in that RHAC Championships (L-R) Nikolas group, copping 6 Gold Sylvester, Alexander Joachim, Shane medals, 3 silvers and 3 Cadogan, Shne Joachim and Dillon bronze medals. She also Gooding. won the overall female Sprint Challenge. Shné Black Sands’ other medal broke three St Lucia national winners included: Dillon Gooding records, including two records set with 2 silvers and a bronze; Jamie ten years ago by St Lucia’s only Joachim with a silver and a female Olympic qualifier. bronze medal; Cruz Halbich Alexander Joachim, swimming (silver medal); Kyle Dougan in the boys 9 to 10 age group, (silver medal); and Chavez Joseph placed second in the overall (Bronze medal).

Championship in his age group.

Black Sands won the overall Alex won 3 Gold medals, 3 silvers Boys Club Championship. and 7 bronze medals, placed Meanwhile, SVG’s team second in Boys 10 and Under prepares for the CARIFTA Sprint Challenge, and broke the Swimming Championships to be 200 Meter Butterfly record for his held in Aruba from April 22nd to age group.

26th.

26. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2014. 27.

Classifieds

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

THURSDAY,

APRIL 17, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.14

A.I. REAL ESTATE New Montrose 2 bedrm Property on 4,356 sq.ft. - CALL - H542 Twenty Hill 3 bedrm Property on 7,499 sq.ft. - $399,500.00 - H109 Prospect Building Lots @ $12.00 p.s.f.

- CALL Other listings are available Phone: 457-2087 Fax: 457-1382 Toll Free (USA): 866-978-0951 718-732-0545 Email: donp@vincysurf.com Website: www.aisvg.com

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

YOUNG FOOTBALLERS INJURED IN VEHICLE COLLISION

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Earl ‘Cabba’ Bennett, Public Relations Officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, gave the assurance that his Federation would assist the injured boys in whatever way it could.

EARL ‘CABBA’ BENNETT, Public Relations Officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, says the Federation is saddened by last Saturday’s (April 12) vehicular accident involving an Under-13 football team from the Sandy Bay/Owia area.

Up to press time Wednesday, 13-year-old Jaldini John, a student of the Georgetown Secondary School (GSS), whose right hand had to be amputated as a result of injuries received in the accident, was a patient at the male surgical ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Also warded at the hospital were Deacon Bowens, also of the GSS, and Adrian Lewis, a 12-year-old Grade Six student of the Owia Primary School, both nursing injuries from the

Education Officers (L-R) Elizabeth Walker and Asfo Stephens visited the injured students warded at the MCMH.

same accident.

The team, their coach and supporters were returning in an omnibus, after playing matches in the Under-13 Division of the National Community Inter League Championship, currently being played at the Richmond Hill Playing Field, when the mishap occurred.

Police reports are that the omnibus, HE 851, owned by Reginald Castello and driven

by Alban Greaves, both of Owia, collided with a rental car, owned by Stanford Thomas of Prospect and driven by Junior Simon of Calder, which was travelling in the opposite direction, around 4:30pm, along the Argyle public road.

Police say that an occupant of the car sustained injuries to the right foot.

“It is a tragic accident, even though no lives were lost,”

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

Deacon Bowens, one of the U13 footballers who sustained injuries, is comforted by his mother Lovena Child.

Bennett told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday while visiting the youngsters at the hospital.

Bennett recalled that the boys were in a jubilant mood as they had beaten Layou and drawn with Barrouallie, described as two powerhouses in local football.

The PRO said that he was “supremely confident” that the Federation would assist in whatever way it could within its limitations.

He noted that the Federation’s president, Venold Coombs, had also visited the boys at the hospital.

“We wish them a speedy recovery, and our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with them and their families in the battle for recovery,” Bennett assured.

Two Senior Education Officers, were also visiting the boys at the time of THE VINCENTIAN’S visit: Asfo Stephens who has responsibility for seconday schools and Elizabeth Walker, assigned to primary schools.

Walker gave the assurance that her ministry was always ready to assist during incidents of this nature, and cited financial support as one measure, should it be needed.

John and Lewis, as well as their relatives, preferred not to be photographed or interviewed, but Bowens’s mother, Lovena Child, told THE VINCENTIAN, “I feel very hurt and sad, but we have to thank God that he (her son) is still alive.”

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.