Vinpages 19 07 13 2

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JULY 19 , 2013

VOLUME 107, No.29

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Above: Colin John, Asst. DPP, says the law makes provisions for charges to be re-instituted.

Left: Andrew Pilgrim, lawyer for Senator Frederick, is anxiously awaiting to hear the basis for bringing the same charges twice.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Senator Vynnette Frederick says the reinstituting of the charges smacks of persecution.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR of Public Prosecutions, Colin John, is adamant that the office of the DPP acted within the ambits of the law when it directed the police to re-arrest and re-institute criminal charges against opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) Senator, Vynnette Frederick.

About two and a half hours after Magistrate Rickie Burnett, sitting at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week Thursday, June 11, had struck out three charges of making false declarations and three for false swearing, involving the senator, she was re-arrested, the said charges reinstituted, and three additional charges relating to the fabrication of evidence laid against her.

Magistrate Burnett had earlier upheld an application by Frederick’s attorney, Andrew Pilgrim of Barbados, to strike out the false declaration and false swearing charges, on the basis that they did not provide sufficient particulars for his client to know what charges she was facing. The charges, for example, did not specify the words Frederick used.

Those charges were re-instituted under section 96 of the Criminal Code, while those relating to the fabrication of evidence were laid under section 101 of the Criminal Code.

Within the law “The law makes provisions for charges to be re-instituted. If they (defence) feel otherwise, they are at liberty to make alternative submissions. The office of the DPP did not act outside the ambits of the law,” the Assistant DPP, who is leading the case for the prosecution, declared while speaking to THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday.

However, Pilgrim told the publication, during a telephone conversation on Monday, “I am looking forward to hearing the basis for him bringing the same charges twice. The magistrate gave him

every opportunity to amend the charges. He amended them, and they still got knocked out. Even if he says that he is bringing them new, in my opinion, they are the same charges. I am looking forward to hearing the justification for these charges in Court.”

Pilgrim assured that the defence is prepared to deal with the matter when it comes to Court. Frederick is also represented by Keith Scotland of Trinidad and Tobago.

First round of amendments At the commencement of a hearing, April 30, at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, the matter was stood down for the Assistant DPP to amend the charges, after Pilgrim stated that the information on the charge sheet was not sufficient for him and his client to know what charges she had to answer.

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

People

Marion House Director in Turkey Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

BARBARA MATTHEWS has established herself as a more than able Director of Marion House, but a recent sojourn in the Middle Eastern country of Turkey, the country located at the

Left: Barbara Matthews (arrow) and other participants in the Management Course for Non-Government Organisation Leaders, held in Istanbul, Turkey.

crossroads of Europe and Asia, has provided her with “information that leaves you on the cutting edge of your practice.”

Matthews ended a week’s training at Kadir Has University in Istanbul in May. For her, it was a “really good experience,” even if the course was “intense and too short.”

Matthews had high praises for the course, and disclosed that the programme “excels you.

“It brought out a lot of skills,’’ she added.

It was a Strategic Management Course for Non-Government Organisation Leaders. She was the only one from the Caribbean, among 32 delegates at the training exercise, and Matthews noted that the closest nation to St. Vincent and the Grenadines that was represented was Peru.

Matthews was overwhelmed by the display of solidarity by the participants, even though they were previously

totally unknown to each other.

The course was run by the Harvard University.

It was that institution which sent out invitations for persons to apply, and Matthews gained acceptance after fulfilling the requirements.

She expressed gratitude to the United States Embassy who paid for her travel to Turkey, and who undertook part of the course’s tuition fees.

She was moved by the life in Istanbul. That city has a population of some 50 million. Matthews described it as a “buzzing city.”

She was impressed with the environs of the city, and for her, it is a “work of art.”

She was overwhelmed by the friendliness of the people, and the culture and cuisine that the city possesses.

A fortified and more enabled Barbara Matthews is back at her desk at Marion House.

‘Feisha’ wants to be a role model GILLIAN ‘FEISHA’ SMART, this year’s Secondary School Calypso Monarch, enters form four at the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown next September, and she wants to be a role model to her nation.

She intends to be an education officer, but she has no intention of lessening her ambition to pursue a career in music, she having, from an early age, been steeped in Vincentian culture.

In addition to her exploits in the calypso arena, ‘Feisha’ plays double second pans with the Scotia Bank South East Steel Orchestra, based in her home village of Stubbs.

Feisha is also an athlete who has represented her school in the 100 metres and relays.

By her own admission, ‘Feisha’ will continue as a Soca and Calypso artiste.

She plans to surpass the accomplishment of last year’s Ragga and Calypso monarch, Lornette ‘FyaEmpress’ Nedd, as well as becoming one of the top arrangers in the music industry.

‘Feisha’ began singing in 2009, when she represented the Calder Government School in the Primary School version of the Junior Calypso competition.

She never placed in the top three at Primary School, but once in secondary school, Feisha placed second behind Shade Barker, her school-

Gillian ‘Feisha’ Smart, 2013 Secondary School Calypso Monarch, has her eye set on a career in music. mate, on two successive occasions. All along, she was inspired by Trinidadian calypsonian Singing Sandra whom she describes as a “favourite singer.”

Already, ‘Feisha’ is looking forward to next year’s Junior Calypso competition. She is especially looking forward to a show down with Kristiana ‘Singing Kristie’ Christopher, 2013 Primary School Calypso Monarch, who will be entering the St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown come September.

She paid tribute to her mother Desmarie Walker for her support, and also gave homage to Joffre Venner, her musical arranger.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 3.

News 3 Lawyer says senatorÊs arrest was unlawful

by HAYDN HUGGINS LAWYERS REPRESENTING opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) Senator Vynnette Frederick are not pleased with the manner in which Frederick was re-arrested last week Thursday, July 11, and will be taking steps to deal with the matter.

Frederick is also represented by Keith Attorney Andrew Pilgrim and Scotland of Trinidad and Senator Vynnette Frederick during Tobago. a visit to THE VINCENTIAN earlier The NDP senator told this year.

THE VINCENTIAN that she was arrested while having lunch at a restaurant in Kingstown with her lawyers, colleagues, relatives and friends. She indicated that there were no less than eight police officers including one woman.

“They asked me to accompany them, and I declined the invitation.

They produced no warrant and they took me out,” Frederick, a lawyer by profession, explained.

“They were trying to pull me out of my seat, compelling me to go with them, a man on one side and a woman on the other side, and they took me with them. I sat between two police officers in the back of the transport, and there were two in front,” Frederick recalled.

Assistant Director of Magistrate’s Court last This is according to Public Prosecutions Colin attorney Andrew Pilgrim week Thursday, she was John confirmed to THE re-arrested and those of Barbados during a VINCENTIAN on telephone conversation charges were reTuesday that the office of with THE VINCENTIAN instituted with more the Director of Public on Tuesday. particulars.

Prosecutions gave the About two and a half “As far as I am directive to re-arrest hours after three charges concerned, there was no Frederick and reof making false warrant, the arrest was institute charges against declarations and three of unlawful, and the her. defence is taking steps to false swearing against John noted that he deal with that,” Pilgrim Frederick were struck was not there when out at the Kingstown declared.

U N - H E A D L I N E D N E W S Governor bans female secretaries An Indonesian governor ordered his THE GOVERNOR of an Indonesian province has ordered his top staff to replace their female secretaries with men, following a series of extra-marital affairs.

Rusly Habibie, the governor of Gorontalo province on northern Sulawesi island, claimed that many government office heads were involved in affairs.

“They treat them much better than their own wives. They bring them presents from official trips like perfumes or branded bags, while their poor wives get nothing,” he said.

“For these reasons, I ordered them to replace their female secretaries with male assistants or with old women who are no longer attractive.”

Mr. Habibie is convinced that his subordinates will follow his instructions, though there will not be any punishment for those who fail to comply.

“This is a moral sanction. I’m pretty sure they will follow my order, and all of them will get a male secretary soon,” he said, adding that there were about 50 senior officials in the province who had hired female secretaries. (Source: telegraph.co.uk.)

top staff to replace their female secretaries with men after reports of extra-marital affairs.

(File photo: Reuters)

Frederick was arrested, but added, “Based on my reports from the police, they did not act in any way outside of their authority.”

Asked whether arresting Frederick without a warrant was unlawful, the Assistant DPP pointed out, “We intend to rely on certain aspects of the law in the event that it becomes necessary.”

When asked what were those aspects of the law, John said, “I would not disclose them at this

stage for tactical reasons.”

Asked about concerns raised that only one policewoman was among a number of police officers who came for Frederick, the Assistant DPP explained, “There is nothing in law preventing a male from arresting a female. All he has to do is ensure that he does not touch her on any part of her body that she can claim she was indecently assaulted.”

John: ‘DPP’s office did nothing wrong’ Continued from Frontpage.

When the court resumed about an hour later, the DPP presented the amended version to the charges which read that on January 11, 2011, at Kingstown, Frederick made a false declaration to a private criminal complaint before Sonya Young, Chief Magistrate, and to an affidavit before Fay James on June 16, 2011 and May 23, 1012. She was also charged with falsely swearing to an affidavit before Fay James on June 16, 2011, and May 23, 2012, as well as to a private criminal complaint before the Chief Magistrate on January 11, 2011.

Magistrate Burnett granted the application for the amendments, but Pilgrim insisted that the charges did not have sufficient particulars for his client to know what charges she was facing, and that they should be struck out if those details were not provided.

When the charges were read to Frederick, she replied to each of them, “I do not know how to plea.”

Burnett had adjourned the case to last week Thursday for ruling on Pilgrim’s application.

Frederick in family Court Frederick told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, “The Court made a ruling, and I thought that was the end of it. I am extremely unhappy now to be going through all this again. It smacks of persecution.”

One legal mind, who preferred not to be identified by name, told THE VINCENTIAN, “Both sides would have their legal arguments in respect to the issue, so I will await the court hearing.”

Frederick was released on station bail, and appeared at the Family Court before Family Court President Coleen McDonald last Friday, July 12.

She pleaded not guilty to all nine charges, and is scheduled to appear at the Mesopotamia Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Burnett on July 31.

The Assistant DPP told THE VINCENTIAN that Frederick appeared before the Family Court because, as far as he was aware, the Family Court was the only Court sitting at the time.

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4. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Youth

STEM summer camp kicks off

Neures Auguste, Principal of SMSS, stressed that STEM is all about offering better preparation for a competitive job market.

by KENVILLE HORNE FIFTY YOUNG PERSONS are currently participating in a 6-week Summer Camp at St. Martin’s Secondary School, with the aim of enhancing their understanding of “key subject areas’: applicable to Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science generally.

The young persons are involved in a STEM Camp, an internationally recognized programme that teaches applications of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The programme was introduced to St. Vincent and the Grenadines by Petrus Gumbs, an IT teacher at the St. Martin’s Secondary School.

During the six weeks, the youths will participate in a variety of courses in Mathematics , Science , Technology, Engineering ,English , Biology, Integrated Science, Computer Programming, Database Modeling, Web and Graphic Design , among others.

The STEM Camp has received some corporate and private sponsors. Participants don their camp T-Shirts in front of the Camp’s official banner.

school being chosen as the host of the STEM programme.

He cited SMSS as a leader in education for all, and stressed that while STEM might be a SMSS initiative, it caters to all the students of SVG. He reiterated that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics are the main key subject areas.

“Mathematics”, he said, “gives an indication of one’s analytical skills.

Technology speaks for itself. Science gives us a view of what technology brings to bear, and engineering (provides) a visual art work of each and every one of the other disciplines.”

The course is expected to take students’ understanding of the subject areas, beyond what is required for the CSEC preparation, Auguste told the students, and reminded the participants that “in a competitive working environment, it is the person STEM is about application with the extra qualification who will obtain a job first.”

During the orientation session at Auguste told the gathering of the St. Martin Secondary School mainly students and their parents, (SMSS) on Monday 15th July, that the business fraternity is crying Principal of the School, Neures Auguste, said he was pleased with the out, claiming that many of the graduates are not adequately prepared for the world of work.

“STEM aims to correct that,” he promised.

Auguste implored all students to take the Programme seriously and to put their best foot forward, and congratulated the parents for allowing their children to participate in the camp.

A cross-section of the parents and guardians who made the time to become acquainted with A new, effective approach what their children would be doing.

Initiator and director of the STEM SVG, Petrus Gumbs, gave an outline of the programme to “set their (parents’) minds at ease”.

He took the opportunity to introduce the Camp facilitators, Alinford Samuel, Richard Smith, Camp/Course facilitators (L -R): Alinford Samuel, Petrus Sheri Edwards and Joseth John. Gumbs (STEM Director), Joseth John, Richard Smith, and Sheri Edwards.

Gumbs will also serve as a faciliatator.

He described the team as one comprised of well qualified individuals with a range of specializations, and one that represents a cumulative teaching experience of well over twenty-five years.

The programme offers, An eager section of the Camp/Course participants. according to Gumbs, a new developed world are moving forward and effective approach to teaching. not because they are smarter, but Participants will be exposed to because they are exposed to industry standard software, and professional applications. professionals will come to work with He promised the students that the students and demonstrate the “What you learn here, you are not applications they use on their job. going to leave here.”

“That is the magnitude of what we Actual sessions of the Summer would be doing,” Gumbs said, and Camp got going last Tuesday. advanced the case that children in the

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 5.

Regional

LIAT videos arouse disgust Leesa ParrisRudder, star of LIAT’s two videos in response to a complaint letter.

time we would have seen [the letter],” she says. “We can say that LIAT’s response to [the Sir Richard Branson has backfired. complaint Monday 8th July, the regional writer] airline released two videos, one in travels quite response to a complaint letter about frequently LIAT that went viral after it was with us and tweeted by Branson, and the other he is a directed squarely at Branson. valuable Both videos featured Leesa Parriscustomer.”

Rudder, LIAT’s Director for However, Sir Richard Branson Commercial and Customer Experience. whatever tweeted the letter and In the one directed at Branson, caused a global profile good LIAT Parris-Rudder thanked Branson for which LIAT would have had hoped “putting LIAT, the Caribbean airline, to leverage hoped would have had on the world stage,” and challenged more pleasant from the him to a race to Necker Island, the sentiment. global private island Branson owns in the attention British Virgin Islands. and its response staring ParrisThe loser (of the race), ParrisRudder, backfired in its face.

Rudder informed, would have to “wipe The videos quickly attracted a the other airline’s tail” or “dress up as barrage of undesirable feedback and a flight attendant for us,” referring to were heavily down-rated on social the time Branson lost a bet to AirAsia networks, including LIAT’s official chief Tony Fernandes and dressed up YouTube, Twitter and Facebook as a stewardess. networks.

“Although we take every complaint One person commented, “Lacks wit, seriously, this tickles us to know that taste and intellect. And she’s corny. we’re second only to Virgin to receive Plus why take jabs at Richard — he the funniest complaint letter ever didn’t pen the letter.” written about an airline,” she said.

People criticised the airline for In the other (video) Parris-Rudder being childish, unprofessional, said the company was investigating embarrassing, for responding in poor the complaint, which appeared in the taste and failing to take the criticisms BVI Beacon newspaper, although she seriously. said LIAT had found no complaints And in the wake of the immediate lodged with the airline itself and no negative response, LIAT, in a rush, complaints of a lost bag. removed all evidence of the videos by “We have to admit that is the first

Carib Chief Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez wants, at the least, proper preservation of the remains of his people’s ancestors.

Arthur Hicks’ Complaint Letter to LIAT Dear LIAT,

“island time,” because I do like to have time to absorb the atmosphere of the various departure lounges. As for our arrival, well, who wants to have to take a ferry at the end of all that flying anyway? I’m glad the boat was long gone by the time we arrived into Tortola last night – and that all those noisy bars and restaurants were closed.

So thank you, LIAT. I now truly understand why you are “The Caribbean Airline.”

May I say how considerate it is of you to enable your passengers such an in-depth and thorough tour of the P.S. Keep the bag. I never liked it Caribbean.

Most other airlines I have travelled anyway. on would simply wish to take me from point A to B in rather a hurry. I was intrigued that we were allowed to stop at not a lowly one or two but a magnificent six airports yesterday. And who THE QUEST to make European countries pay for wants to fly on the same the horrors and inhumane treatment of the slave airplane the entire time? trade is now We got to change and squarely on the refuel every step of the agenda of way!

CARCOM. At its 34th I particularly enjoyed Summit held in sampling the security Trinidad and scanners at each and Tobago during every airport. I find it the first week of preposterous that people July 2013, the imagine them all to be leaders decided the same. And as for to lay the being patted down by a groundwork for Reparations are being sought variety of islanders, well, plans to push for the atrocities of the TransI feel as if I’ve been European atlantic slave trade and slavery hugged by most of the nations, which in the Caribbean and Africa.

Caribbean already. had I also found it unique participated in the Transatlantic slave trade, “to that this was all done on pay reparations for the deaths of millions of people of African origin, and for the fact that they were forced to work for hundreds of years without pay.”

To concretise this intention the Summit leaders announced that they have agreed to establish a reparations committee in each member state. of their ancestors are a “Purablaka” spiritual The chairpersons from preserved. ceremony at the Red each national committee will Trinidad Newsday House, Saturday 14th be afforded seats on the newspaper reports Carib July, “in the name of the CARICOM reparations Chief Ricardo Bharathdeparted.” commission that will seek to Hernandez as saying He explained that the make the case to Britain and that if the seat of “Purablaka, a one-hour other countries, which have Parliament cannot be long ceremony, was the greatly benefited from relocated, then “some first phase of a two-part slavery. attempt should be made ritual, which is expected Dr. Ralph “The heads of government during the current reto be performed “more Gonsalves, has of Barbados, St. Vincent, construction exercise, to extensively” by a been among the Haiti, Guyana, Suriname and preserve the remains of Shaman of High Priest of leading political Trinidad will provide political Jennifer Cassar, the First People’s the community in lights for oversight,” the announcement current Carib Queen of ancestors, at the site of October. reparations. said. the Red House, for The Shaman is Trinidad and Tobago.

St. Vincent and the descendants as well as expected to come from Grenadines’ Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, members of the either Venezuela or domain, Arima in the has been among the leading political lights for international community. Surinam. case of Trinidad. reparations, and ensured that the item was one Bharath-Hernandez, The Santa Rosa First The Santa Rosa First down for serious discussion at the recent summit. speaking on behalf of the Peoples’ (Caribs) Peoples’ Indigenous In fact, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has Santa Rosa First Indigenous Community Community was moved already to establish its own reparations Peoples’ Indigenous is the major organisation incorporated in 1973 to committee, headed by lawyer Jomo Thomas.

Community, expressed of indigenous people Dr. Gonsalves has referred repeatedly to the hope that the Red House in Trinidad and Tobago. preserve the culture of fact that many of the established companies in the Caribs of Arima, and could further be Its members are Britain, including Barclays Bank and many of the maintain their role in developed as a heritage descendants of the rich and gentrified families in Europe, have gotten the annual Santa Rosa site “for the remains that original (Amerindian) their riches on the backs of slavery and not even are found there,” and inhabitants of Trinidad. Festival, dedicated having to pay for labor. that, “the bones must be Not unlike what to Santa Rosa de Lima, “Great homes in England -lord this and lord dealt with in a special happened in other the first Catholic saint that- were financed by the compensation money way.”

Eastern Caribbean canonised in the New from the slaves,” he said, pointing to the irony of Bharath-Hernandez territories, upon World). slave owners being compensated for losing slaves was among a group of conquest by the The community is also to abolition, but those who worked on sugar, coffee First Peoples’ Europeans, the and cotton plantations not earning a single cent to the base for the Carib descendants who indigenous people were this day.

Queen, currently performed what he called confined to a particular Jennifer Cassar.

Indigenous people want parliament relocated THE RED HOUSE, the seat of Parliament in Port of Spain, capital of Trinidad and Tobago, sits partially on top of the remains of ancestral spirits of that country’s indigenous people, the Caribs.

And the discovery of the remains, as the Parliament building undergoes renovations, has sparked action by the indigenous people to ensure that the remains

early Tuesday.

See below the letter that caused what is now considered an illconceived response from LIAT. (Source: Rush Post)

Reparations: A CARICOM concern

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6. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Two paid for, Vincentian Nurses for Trinidad six outstanding

by KENVILLE HORNE

VINCENTIAN she received the payments on Monday and is looking forward to being pay for the others.

The story was carried on page 7 of THE VINCENTIAN June 7, 2013, and headlined ‘BacchusBrowne wants her money’. The article also carried the contents of a letter, dated March 7, 2013, which she had written to High Court Registrar Tamara GibsonMarks, and copied to Finance Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. In the letter Bacchus-Browne asked the Registrar to, “please request a special warrant to pay off outstanding bills for assigned cases.”

Kay Bacchus-Browne may have been THE VINCENTIAN reported encouraged by her receipt of payment on Bacchus-Browne as saying, “I two accounts. have been doing state assigned matters for about 20 years, and it is

by HAYDN HUGGINS only in the last two years I have been having problems with getting my ABOUT SIX WEEKS AFTER THE money. People can’t work without VINCENTIAN reported a call by attorney being paid. It is not easy to be stuck in Kay Bacchus-Browne for the authorities the High Court for a week without to pay long outstanding monies owed to being paid. It is unacceptable. This is her for state assigned matters, the going on for too long”. defence lawyer was paid for two of the Payments are made by government eight accounts. through the High Court Registry.

Bacchus-Browne told THE

FORTY-FIVE Vincentian Registered Nurses are expected to take up employment with the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The nurses are expected to leave the state on Wednesday, July 24th.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Luis de Shong, says he received official confirmation from his counterpart in Trinidad and Tobago that the Nurses will travel to Port of Spain on Wednesday, on three separate flights: Twelve (12) at 9.30 am, fifteen (15) at 4.20 pm and eighteen (18) at 6.40 pm.

The School of Nursing at Largo Height, SVG, is renowned for producing some of the best trained nurses in the region.

The Nurses will be employed on a contractual basis for an initial period of three (3) years.

A release from De Shong says upon arrival in Trinidad, the nurses will participate in an orientation programme.

Layou Government champs Kiddy Cricket quiz

Into its third year, the most outstanding female award for her Cane End Government School was the inaugural 84 points, while winner in 2011, with the Hassan McLean of Pamelus Burke Primary the CW Prescod securing the 2012 edition.

Primary School was Next up for the Kiddy the stand out male Cricket programme will be with 72 points. the attendance of eight Richland Park schools at the staging of the Government, 228, two 20/20 internationals Park Hill between the West Indies Government, 225, (L-R): Allan Straker (teacher), Fancy Government and Pakistan at the Arnos Joel Quashie and Marcus Vale Playing Field, on and New Grounds Miller of the victorious Layou Primary, 214 each, as Saturday 27th and Sunday Government School. they docked in fourth, 28th July.

Meanwhile, sixty of the fifth and sixth THE LAYOU best performers in this respectively.

GOVERNMENT SCHOOL, CW Prescod Primary and year’s Kiddy Cricket represented by Joel Quashie the Calder Primary, both programme will be engaged and Marcus Miller, ensured scored 212 points, to share in a three-day camp next that the Scotiabank Kiddy month. the eighth spot.

Cricket quiz title, headed to The other school in the leeward side of the the contest was the island.

Paget Farm The two defeated Government, who tallied representatives from nine 210 points. other schools in the final, Allan Straker of the held on Friday 28th June, Layou Government was at the Red Cross adjudged the most headquarters in Kingstown. outstanding teacher Quashie and Miller throughout this year’s posted 266 points, edging conduct of the Kiddy out the Spring Village Cricket.

Methodist pair of Deonde The schools were Endeavour and Dawn Ellis quizzed in three rounds by a mere two points (264). of written items , Taking the third spot Top male performer, Hassan multiple choices and was the Calliaqua Anglican oral questioning.

Mc Lean of the CW Prescod with 259 points. Calliaqua The ten finalists Primary School, receiving was represented by emerged from the his trophy from Kishore Areanna St Luce and Levi preliminary phase, Shallow of the St Vincent Shallow. which involved 44 and the Grenadines Cricket St Luce also copped the schools.

Association.

V Belair plagued by house break-ins

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 7.

News

by PATMOS RICHARDS MIDDLE ROAD, described as a quiet neighbourhood in the Belair community, has become the target of criminal activities in recent times.

From last year October up until Friday 5th July, five homes in this growing middle class neighbourhood had suffered losses and damage, the result of breaking and entering by an assumed band of young criminals.

Speculation is rife that the perpetrators are from the Belair community.

Pedro Richards, a radiologist attached to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, and his wife Gweneth ‘Listra’ Richards, a housewife, as recent as Friday 5th July, suffered damage and losses after a break-in at their residence.

This was the third time in less than a year that the Richards had suffered this fate.

In the most recent incident, the contents of their home were ransacked, doors damaged, telephone disconnected and the intruder(s) feasted on Mackeson Stout and snacks.

In the first incident in October 2012, the intruder(s) got away with $950.00 in cash, a quantity of jewellery and cellular phones.

The other intrusion earlier this year also fetched the intruder(s) a quantity of valuables.

Another resident, Saville Pope, who lives below the Richards, had his home ransacked by thieves who escaped with an undisclosed sum of money.

Three other homes in the same neighbourhood suffered at the hands of thieves.

Mrs. Richards is of the view that she and her husband are being monitored by these “bandits,” who chose the times when they are away from their home, to commit their crimes.

She is obviously distraught by the state of affairs.

A number of other residents in the neighbourhood expressed their annoyance and anger about these recent developments in an area that is deemed one of the better ones in Belair.

Police investigations into the spate of robberies continue, spearheaded by officers from the Calliaqua Police Station.

Left: Gweneth ‘Listra’ Richards reported that her home has been broken into three times since October 2012.

Belair is home to the famous and well patronized ‘spa’ (Mineral Spring).

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8. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 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 In Tribute to Pat Prescod:

A Great Man WHEN A PERSON of the caliber of Patrick Prescod passes away, it is not only a time to grieve, but also a time to reflect on what makes a person ‘great’.

In this context we are not using the word ‘great’ as it may be used in relation to some sporting star, itinerant musician or actor. To do so, is to confine ‘greatness’ to a limited range of attributes, and Patrick Prescod’s list of attributes is far from limited.

To be great, in this discourse, requires a much wider range of qualities, not least among them being personal integrity, or as some would say, ‘goodness’, akin to that (with) which we associate the likes of Mohandas Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela and even the Dalai Lama.

The likes of the fore-mentioned may tempt one to imply a spiritual judgement to calling someone ‘great’. But as was said before in this column, it is not the purview of us worldly creatures to judge the spiritual potential of anyone else; that right belongs to a higher judgement, a right which is not ours.

However, those who knew him as a man, who knew of his work, who worked with him, even those who would merely have heard of his work, agree that Patrick Prescod, unquestionably, was a great man who lived a simple but inspiring life.

Patrick Prescod was a musician extraordinaire, blessed with an ear reserved for a few. His work as Music Officer (Ministry of Education), music tutor, church organist; his adherence to the principles of Methodism; his service to music here and in the region, and more, filled his life with a wholesomeness.

All of this he approached and conquered with a well-trained mind, mature experience, unquestioned loyalty, selfless devotion and recognised ability.

But there is more on which the ‘greatness’ of Patrick Prescod was founded: Consider if you could: his adherence to inspired principles that if enacted will benefit the persons around him; his continual effort to increase understanding of those principles; his acting upon those principles consistently throughout his and others’ lives; his willingness to explain, in the way in which he lived, those principles to those willing to listen.

Deep down, though, Patrick Prescod’s guiding principles were those of the religion he served throughout his life. He believed in one God, and the essential harmony of the great religious traditions and religious expressions of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Caribbean.

To him, all humanity was one family, and as such, therefore, each society into which mankind formed himself, should feel obligated to work towards a genuine coming together in equality and justice. So if the politics that we practise proved more divisive than unifying, understand his disappointment, though never did he lose faith in mankind, as conversations with him indicated.

Consider for a moment, Patrick Prescod with all his talent, his ingenuity, remaining to labour in the vineyard which had given him his first breath of life. Consider Partrick Prescod giving up a potentially lucrative career in his profession to spend a lifetime in service to his Vincentian people. How often does this make of man dwell among us?

So why do we ascribe greatness to him? The reason is that he had attributes developed to a much higher degree than found in the average person.

In this man, in all his simplicity, was an enormous intellect, blessed with a power of analysis so profound that it left people nodding their heads in agreement and wonder.

His perception and lucidity, his use of logic, his endearing spirit, his sparkling sense of humour led people to love as well as to admire him.

How many persons can make a gathering collapse in laughter and then allow them to relax so as to be set in the right frame of mind to listen carefully to his words of insight, of wisdom?

So, Patrick Prescod passes on. Ask yourself: Why, even at his advanced age, do we feel a jolt of sadness and loss? The pain of death is always personal for relatives and those close to the departed. But for us ordinary folk who feel this jolt of sadness, isn’t it because we sense that we have lost one who gave us special insights, a special happiness?

That, you will agree, is the sign that Patrick Prescod, a great man, lived, walked and laboured among us. For this we must be unabashedly thankful.

Patrick Prescod has passed on peacefully FOR SOME TIME prior to his death, Patrick Prescod, on any objective criteria, richly deserved to have been honoured with the award of the knighthood... Patrick Prescod should not just be awarded an O.B.E. perfunctorily, as a matter of form.

Pat’s outstanding services in the field of music are stunning, starting out in 1953 when he won the Guardian Cup in Trinidad with his dexterous playing of Chopin’s nocturne, the symbol of champion musical virtuosity Caribbean-wide.

He brought out and trained choirs and music teachers all over the island through his job as musical director in the Education Ministry. He was associated with the LightOperatic Society in their memorable production of the Mikardo and Gondoliers in the 1960s. He led the St. Vincent contingent with distinction to several Caribbean Music Festivals. He wrote and set to music the beautiful hymn, “The right hand of God”.

Above all, he has fathered the two leading musical groups of singers, “The Kingstown Chorale”, which has made a name for itself in the musical world, and, later, “Cantemus” which is issuing to the Chorale a challenge for musical pre-eminence in friendly rivalry that is calculated to the enrichment of music in both groups, and generally to SVG, to the ultimate and eternal credit of Patrick Prescod.

Above all, Pat has performed the impossible in keeping political tribalism at bay, with his groups inoculated against the deadly virus.

I have known Pat Prescod all my life. I recall a tragic event that befell him in his teenage years. A loving child- relative was dragged out of his hands by the fury of the Georgetown sea, forever lost.

Perhaps after that trauma Pat devoted his entire life to the care of his Nation’s soul. I believe that it was an empowering dedication to family, friends and people that drove his native gifts to accomplishing feats of excellence in the broad field of music, the vehicle which he chose, or which chose him, for this celestial adventure.

The second point I want to make is that Pat proved himself to be a GENIUS, however we want to define the word. As the people say, the phenomenon contains inspiration aplenty, but is determined by much perspiration. Pat himself described his total commitment when he described his most productive period that triggered a veritable explosion of music.

“This period was for me the most creative and fulfilling, and yet most frustrating and demanding physically and emotionally. There were times when sleepless nights gave birth to new musical ideas and adventurous composition and choral arrangements; when the drive to recapture heights of excellence experienced abroad became relentless and compelling; when weary hours were spent drumming out choral parts at the piano in a never ended succession of rehearsals; when thirty —odd tired voices were often coaxed and cajoled into repeating a musical phrase for ‘just few times more’ so that some particular nuance of choral interpretation could be perfected.”

But before that, Pat had diligently tilled the ground and prepared the soil for reception of his arduous work. Fred, his younger brother, was strategically placed, and gave the following account in what resembles an insightful citation for some meritorious award.

“The decades of the 60s and 70s were

exciting times in the Caribbean and of great significance.

Issues relating to identity, self determination and national development dominated. Intellectuals spoke and wrote with passion, politicians agitated and the “man-in- the-street” wanted his place in the sun. These stirrings soon created powerful vibrations that found sympathetic utterance in the realms of politics, religion and culture, and the reality of this phenomenon began to show its influence on the creative and performing arts in the region.

With Jamaica and Trinidad gaining political independence in 1962 after the unfortunate demise of the West Indies Federation, the other Caribbean territories followed in quick succession, with St Vincent and the Grenadines achieving its independence in October 1979.

“At this time too, there were increases in interest in our African roots. Small wonder then serenaders at Christmas time, the rhythmic chant of the spiritual Baptists and the song of stories of the Vincentian countryside, consciously turned his attention to expressing some of these hidden vibrations in his creative work. Two important events provided him the opportunity, viz. i. The Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta) 1972 in Guyana’; ii. The Inauguration of the Caribbean Conference of the Churches in 1973.”

Pat’s lifelong sojourn in the world of music is of surpassing interest. It really began with his mastery of masters as revealed in his winning the Guardian Cup in Trinidad 1953.

The foregoing experiences were all captured by Pat and neatly packaged for display at the Cariftas, for instance. With a growing confidence and emerging maturity, the Chorale executed a wide repertoire - folk operetta light operatic performances the Gondoliers and Mikarade in the mid 1960s, “Sarah and Dalphus”; calypsos in “We kind of music”; Lord Hawke “Ding Dong” played as pan music that was skilfully mouthed by virtuosos; the Chorale had certainly arrived.

To the end, Pat remained a simple and uncomplicated soul, untroubled by the borrowed robes of society. The “Queen” honoured him with an OBE but granted Knighthoods to the likes of Vincent Beache and Louis Straker- what travesty! And to compound it all, the UWI has decided to prefer the claims of Lennox Honey Church of Dominica over Pat’s for a distinguished regional cultural award. Such trinkets meant little to Pat who believed passionately in valued friendships and the love and appreciation of the broad masses of people, the simple folk. Hypocritical posthumous awards avail nothing, a mere repetition of what was done to another cultural icon before him, Ellsworth “Shake” Keane.

Pat, however, would have revelled over parts of his funeral service, especially the presence of the Starlitf Steel Orchestra, the renditions of his two off-spring, the “Kingstown Chorale” and Cantemus, the eulogy by his life —long friend, fellow Methodist and Grammar School teacher, Julian Duncan. And his burial at the Methodist Churchyard, overlooked by his home of many years, would have been much appreciated.

The Angelic hosts certainly have a new member.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 9.

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Learning from a tragedy EDITOR’S NOTE: The young woman referred to in this ‘letter to the editor’, is Camilia Trimmingham. She died after being run over by a trailer during J’Ouvert celebrations in this year’s carnival.

Editor, just imagine a young beautiful girl, looking forward to doing her CXC exams next year, taken away in the blink of an eye. Young Miss Trimmingham, with not a care in the world but out to enjoy herself, met what some would say was an ‘untimely’ death. Death is never easy to deal with, and is even harder when the one who dies is either a child or a young person. We grieve more for those young ones because we see them as having their lives ahead of them.

So when someone as young as Ms. Trimmingham is taken from us during the height of our Carnival, we must reflect on her passing. What is there that we can earn from her death?

I would like to think that one of the strongest lessons here is for young women to take another look at involving themselves in the kind of revelry, with all its dirty music and sexually arousing dancing, that passes off as fun at Carnival.

Today is Miss Trimmingham, tomorrow might be you. The Lord didn’t make women to be objects of sex or for them to indulge in lewd behavior — not that I am saying Miss Trimmingham was involved in this, for it could well be that she was an innocent bystander to all the nonsense around her.

It is time for our young people to look at what they have made our carnival, and for those who organize the carnival and fetes to think about what they are encouraging.

Also it is time for our political leaders to stop encouraging this new behavior, and for all those persons making drinks or selling strong drinks, to stop using sex and girls as ways of promoting their products.

We are heading down a wrong road as a nation.

Let’s stop and reflect on the death of Miss Trimmingham before we get to a point in the road when we cannot turn back.

Shirley George Kingstown & New York

Panorama 2013 BEFORE I deal with what I really want to say, allow me to say that I recognize and commend all the efforts being made to revive pan in the country.

Things seem to be going jolly well on the mainland, so may be it is time to spend some money on the Grenadines, so that they might get their fair share of attention. I think some time ago, something was done in Canouan, but I haven’t heard anything happening there in recent times.

And Union island has a sound history of pan, so we should not turn our back on them.

But to the point I want to make. Let me address in brief a concern I have about the Senior Panorama. Are we saying that to win a panorama in this country, a steel band has to be a certain size? It seems so with the competition for the last God alone knows coming down to a Sion HillStarlift battle.

Are the judges not listening to what the smaller sides are doing? In the case of this year, did they not hear what the young people from the South East Steel orchestra did?

I left the Park that night remembering what I heard from South East, nothing else, and I am no supporter of that pan side. The youngsters laid down something worthy of a higher position on the night. Left up to me, I would have placed them first, since both Sion Hill and Starlift didn’t do, as far as I am concerned, a good job of what they intended to do.

Time we see through all the flaws of those big bands, and give credit to what the smaller bands do. They do much better with what they have than those big bands try to do with all that they have.

Potential have been showing that for years.

Congrats to South East. May be if you add a few more players and a few more pans and get somebody inside the loop, then you will get your reward. Keep up the good work.

Johnson

Careful with LIAT travel ÂprotectionÊ!

EARLY Nov 2011, we had to fly to St. Lucia to see after our son who had broken his hand.

Anticipating timeconsuming problems, we took LIAT’s ‘highly recommended’ Travel Insurance, encouraged by their website at the time, to wit: “A friendly Reminder! LIAT Travel Protection to protect your trip. LIAT Travel Protection will take care of you. We at LIAT value our Guest’s travel experience and highly recommend adding the Travel Protection.”

As foreseen, we indeed had to change plans and rebook flights, hotels, etc, but thought, ‘no problem, we are insured’.

Since then, we have submitted (numerous times) to LIAT Travel Insurance and copied to LIAT offices, via email, fax and registered letters as required, multiple copies of our relevant documents such as statements, time-tables, bills and expenses.

Up to the end of Nov 2011, LIAT’s Travel Insurance came back once, stating that our claim will be pursued. To date, that is

the only time we ever heard from them, in spite of our numerous attempts to have our claim dealt with.

As before, we again turned to LIAT, in March, April and May 2013 (Headquarters Antigua, <customerrelations@liat. com>, <pattersond@liatairline.c om> etc.), in our opinion, the responsible body.

They finally came back with: “We have copied the insurance company on this email so that they can respond directly to you and provide an update on your claim.”

My response: “...but your Insurance is not responding, what can we do? Can you please not just copy them but write them in no uncertain terms...to honour the claims of your customers.... That’s why customers insure with you; because you, LIAT, recommend it so highly?”

To this day, NO RESPONSE FROM LIAT, neither from my young, energetic attorney, who was to follow up with the matter.

Remembering Mr. Prescod HERE IS HOW I remember Mr. Patrick Prescod. He came to our school one Friday morning. We had gathered for assembly. We sang a few hymns, said a few prayers, heard the headmaster lay down some new rules, after which he introduced Mr. Prescod.

I thought Mr. Prescod was going to give some big lecture. Instead, he took a seat in front of the old piano on the stage and asked the assembly to sing one of the songs we had sung earlier.

The whole school began to sing, and somewhere in between all the good and bad voices, we could hear the piano. Mr. Prescod was playing along to what we were singing.

I tell you, Mr. Editor, we were no choir, but Mr. Precosd and his piano just made us sound as though we had practised for the whole term.

Up to this day, I never knew if we sounded good or bad; but Mr. Prescod, when he was finished, gave us a big hand.

And you know what? Our school went on to win an award in the Music Festival that year.

I still believe that that one visit from Mr. Prescod, who made us sound so different, made the difference for our school’s performance.

Strange but true, and that is how I remember the influence of this man we used to call, Mr. Prescod.

May he rest in peace. SVG has lost a great man.

The conclusion of this unpleasant experience; LIAT didn’t care.

Being frequent flyers, we, nevertheless, were left unassisted. In spite of LIAT Travel Insurance, our injury (insured) expenses haven’t been met. No explanation from LIAT whatsoever, but the airline boasts: “We at LIAT will take care of you. We at LIAT value our Guest’s travel experience.” Are they kidding? Very Disappointed.

Otmar Schaedle (frequent LIAT customer) PS: We want to mention that LIAT

personnel are generally friendly and helpful.

The problem lies with the ‘upper levels’.

Up with the parking IT HIT ME straight in the face. The number of vehicles on the roads in St. Vincent had increased a hundred fold since last I returned home.

To be honest, I didn’t expect to meet a St. Vincent that had frozen in time, but the last thing I expected was to leave a metropolis with its traffic congestion and find the same thing in my island home.

I understand that every year there is an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads, especially in capital Kingstown. In addition, there has been much construction (call it modernization if you want), but no provision for parking, with one exception I saw, the Bank * How come of St. Vincent and the men like Pat Grenadines on Halifax Prescod can’t get Street. knighted, but politicians who Sure I noted the two spend their lives major parking lots (paid) beating down other in Kingstown, and this got people, can? me thinking. With the * Is Michael number of vehicles Charles acting COP expected to increase, and until Deputy the obvious increased war Hadaway returns to for parking, when are the duty, or is there owners or operators of the another plan afoot? two car parks on Bay * How united are Street going to see the Vincies in New wisdom of investing in York? How many high rise car park different facilities? organizations of The number of parking Vincies they have lots will never increase up there? Why are with a one level car park, some folks saying and with no more open that the SVG space available, the next Diaspora Committee best bet is to go up. in NY is an arm of the government?

Something to think about. * Why are people Other than the traffic saying that the and the lack of adequate more fuel VINLEC parking facilities in buys from Kingstown, it was good to Venezuela, the more see firsthand, the positive money for the changes that have airport? Why are occurred in St. Vincent in the last fifteen years or so. they saying that because of this, the fuel surcharge will Yankee Vincy remain high?

V

10. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

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Economics 101: A Lesson For The New Democratic Party

The Issue IT IS A WELL-KNOWN FACT that the world is currently in the throes of a grim global economic and financial crisis that is showing no signs of abatement. Many countries are being affected by this crisis, including those in the Caricom region. Many Caribbean governments are struggling to maintain an even keel in the face of this scenario. Some are successful, like the ULP administration in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Still others are having a difficult time, having to borrow to pay the salaries of their civil servants, and having to enter into austerity programmes with the IMF. Opposition parties in the region have responded in different ways to this crisis. Some see this as an opportunity to score political cookie points, and their conversation in the discussion circles has descended into the ridiculous. The opposition New Democratic Party is one such example.

Other opposition parties in the region have acted differently, recognizing that the current global crisis will not change significantly, if they get into office. Their conversation includes suggestions for economic stability, and they have laid out their philosophy and strategy, for the voting population to see. Not so the NDP.

recognised that sixty cents in every revenue dollar earned by the state, is expended on salaries and retirement benefits for public servants.

The NDP response

Like some political parties in the region, the NDP is trying to score political points from an environment created by external forces. Witness the statement made by St.Clair Leacock, the member for Central Kingstown, that the NDP could not do anything different in the current circumstances, without serious social disruptions.

The NDP has always preached a policy of austerity in relation to the economy. They would reduce the size of the public service, so some teachers, nurses, police men and women and civil servants, would be on the breadline. They would shut down a number of projects, including the international airport project at Argyle.

In short, they would engage in a number of activities aimed at balancing the books. Their view of economics is basically escalatory; one set of figures will go up, one set will Economic Lessons go down, and the whole affair is The leaders in Caricom have to find balanced! It is this approach that created problems for the country in ways and means to keep their the first place. While the educational economies afloat, while at the same time position their countries to be in a system was in a mess, while the state apparatus was disintegrating, and the state of readiness to take advantage social safety net for poor people was of the situation when the recession in trouble, the NDP was declaring an abates significantly, or is over. artificial surplus, on the books.

This has been the approach of the Their rhetoric has not changed.

ULP administration. The truth is that They complain on radio and Facebook St.Vincent and the Grenadines is showing signs of a slow recovery after that the government is broke, but at every question time in the House of three years of negative growth in Assembly, they call for infrastructure 2008, 2009 and 2010. In 2011, a work in their constituencies. When growth rate of 0.4 percent was the government introduces new recorded, followed by 1.53 percent in strategies, they pretend that they are 2012. In fact, St.Vincent and the Grenadines is the only OECS country in support, and then they retire to their radio station to denigrate these to record two consecutive years of strategies, even where their own positive economic growth, and this supporters are benefiting. cannot be disputed.

Their statements and comments The ULP administration are insulting, to say the least. How understands that it has no control or can one describe a suggestion by one influence over the world economy. of their MPs, that when you pay your That is a simple statement of fact.

The ULP administration, therefore, is light bill, some of that money goes to the international airport project? committed to a series of strategies to Ridiculous! enhance production and productivity for a competitive market in goods and services. We must recognise that, in a A New Dialogue recession, there will be a contraction The situation cries out for a new and a general slowdown in economic dialogue from the Opposition. Even activity. This means that the state, some of their top supporters despair the private sector, the cooperative at the conversations coming out of the sector and the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole, must NDP camp. They have become so obsessed with being critical about work together to lift productivity.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Partners in the region as well as that they have forgotten their role. In the Diaspora and the wider international scene, must join in this the process, they have let down their process. Foreign Direct Investment, as supporters who are expecting meaningful discussion in the country. seen in the development activities in Meanwhile, the ULP will continue Canouan and Bequia, the medical to keep its focus and concentrate on schools, financial services and ICT, all its people- centred approach to provide important revenue and jobs development. It is this philosophy for the economy. that is central to the stability of our So, as part of this exercise, the country, during the current harsh ULP administration has maintained employment in the state sector, while global economic and financial challenges. at the same time exercising a large measure of fiscal prudence. It is

The Carnival is over

CARNIVAL 2013 IS OVER, and once again we turn our attention to the harsh realities of life in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NDP wishes to congratulate all the winners in the different components of carnival, and to those who did not win, better luck next time.

However, considerable amount of work needs to be done in all aspects of our carnival, to bring it up to a standard comparable to Trinidad and Tobago. With the exception of Soca Monarch, the other shows at Victoria Park were unable to attract large crowds. Serious attention needs to be paid to Miss Carival Show. The idea of hosting this show on the first weekend of carnival needs to be revisited. Miss Carival show has the potential to bring huge economic benefits to St. Vincent and the Grenadines if it is produced and marketed properly.

Ragga soca music continues to grow and the soca artistes are holding their own; but the most disappointing aspect of Carnival 2013 is the decline of our calypsos. It is the opinion of most Vincentians that this year 2013 is the worst year for calypso in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While the Calypsonians Association is trying, the standard and quality of our calypsos this year have left much to be desired.

Calypsonians expressed in songs the political and social ills of the society, and we have grown accustomed to hear strong lyrical content of a political and a social nature at carnival time; and this is not unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is like this throughout the Caribbean. In Trinidad and Tobago, calypsonian Gypsy sang “Captain the Ship is Sinking” a song which dealt with the economic condition in Trinidad and Tobago in the 1980s. The mighty Gabby of Barbados sang “Boots” which focused on the BLP government in Barbados when the late Prime Minister, Tom Adams, sent soldiers to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, when there was a rebellion in Union island. Both songs took the Caribbean by storm, and we can go on and on.

During the period 1984-2001, when the NDP was in office, calypsonians were singing strong political commentaries against the NDP government. As a matter of fact, Sir James Mitchell told calypsonians to sing because during the period 19741984 when the Labour Party was in power, a large number of calypsos were banned. So they took the advice of Sir James Mitchell and they decided to sing.

There were songs such as “Mr. Nancy” by the Mighty Toiler, “Mouth in me Moma” by Poorsah, “Vincentians bear yo Grind” by Black Ebou, “Ease up Fisherman” by Lexy, “Pressure” by The Man CP, “Mitchelism” by Freedom Fighter, and the list continues. And what was most interesting is that most of those songs that were sung against the NDP government, the artiste won the Calypso Monarch.

Since the ULP got in power in 2001, the government began its move slowly to suppress the calypso art form, to the extent that in 2013 there were only two (2) calypsos that were sung against the ULP administration, bearing in mind all the problems, the victimization, the hardship and social ills that confront Vincentians at this time. Calypsonians are afraid to sing their usual political social commentaries; all because of this wicked ULP government.

The first step to revive carnival is a national consultation with all the stakeholders of carnival, the general public and the business community and this should be done as soon as possible.

Culture As a nation, we have reached the crossroads where culture is concerned.

The way forward must involve the removal of politics from culture. The best and the brightest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines must be invited to the cultural table to ensure that we create a viable, sustainable industry which can usefully contribute to our country’s economy.

The NDP pledges to implement the following when it returns to office: Retool the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) as an umbrella body under which the cultural and creative industries can develop and flourish and as the coordinating machinery for all cultural activities, including carnival.

Create links between culture, trade and tourism to ensure that culture benefits from the EPA agreements, trade and tourism.

Support music education in schools from the primary level, with a view to establish a youth orchestra and permanent music programmes in schools.

Introduce visual arts design programmes into the teaching programmes for training teachers.

Support and encourage the use of Information Technology to promote the cultural identity of our nation.

Implement the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Policy Framework and Development Strategy for cultural and creative industry development.

Enforce copyright legislation to protect our local cultural stakeholders.

Sign the Rome convention for the Protection of Performers of Phonograms and Broadcast Organisations.

Immediately create an Intellectual Property (IP) Enforcement Branch of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force whose sole responsibility will be to handle IP related issues of infringement and enforcement.

Provide the fiscal incentive to encourage private sector investment in the music industry, carnival and the performing arts.

The NDP does not only criticize but always offers solutions to the problems.

We can do a better job, and are calling on the electorate to give the NDP the opportunity to govern the affairs of this country.

A new commissioner of police will be named shortly to replace Mr. Keith Miller. When the new commissioner of police is appointed, will there be drastic changes to the operations of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force or a continuation of the same old operation. We have seen since the ULP got in power, the police has taken a number of actions where Vincentians are asking the question, are we becoming a police state?

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 11.

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All about the climb

“Victories in life come through our ability to work around and over the obstacles that cross our path. We grow stronger as we climb our own mountains.” - Marvin J. Ashton (1915–1994) American religious leader, business executive, state senator Ensign, May 1979, p. 67.

MANY OF THIS COLUMN’S READERS have ventured to climb the La Soufriere volcanic mountain that is situated at the northern end of St. Vincent. Some have accepted the challenge to mount its slopes along the trail that commences at the leeward end of the island (beyond Richmond), while others have commenced their trek just beyond the Rabacca Dry River on the windward side of the island. Whichever route is taken, the breath-taking view when at the 3,864 ft. summit is always such a wonder to behold. Wow! What a wonder of God’s creation! And sometimes we can become so engrossed with the magnificent view at the top that we immediately forget the other positive benefits of the climb: the reflective thoughts that we entertained as we make the hike, the sounds of nature that we found so refreshing and relaxing, the camaraderie that was evident if we walked with others, the smell of the fresh air, observing the changes in temperature as we proceeded up the slopes, the change in vegetation at the higher elevations, and so on. We can reflect on the times when our leg muscles ached and we may have felt like quitting. But the inner voice (or the encouragement from our colleagues) beckoned us to go on.

The experience was much richer than the spectacular view at the top. There were learning experiences and blessings that emerged throughout the climb.

There are a variety of celebrations that take place around this time of year. Pre-schools, primary schools, secondary schools, and tertiary level institutions traditionally have their graduations around this period of year. This is also the “season” for weddings. Sometimes we can become so wrapped up in the ceremonies and the celebrations that we miss out on the tremendous learning and growth opportunities that have brought us to these festive moments. Sometimes we lose sight of the fact that the process is often just as valuable as the end result. But the trials and struggles that emerged along the way played a significant role in shaping the end results that have been achieved.

Those valuable learning/teaching moments should not be lost or devalued. They were useful and valuable contributors to “the climb”.

The athlete who disciplines herself to engage in “proper eating habits” and a regular exercise programme, knows that it not only enhances her chances to do well on the day of her competition; she derives tremendous benefits all along the way to that event. She develops mental toughness; the increased oxygen that circulates through her system as a result of the exercise regime also aids her concentration, and so on. She is also likely to develop greater selfconfidence (especially if she perceives

that she is doing well). The benefits can be tremendous.

We can see similar benefits when we examine relationships. Strong associations do not just happen. They are often the result of individuals developing a resolve to commit to working through difficult/challenging times. Effective communication (specially listening with an empathetic ear) requires that we “place self aside” and develop the patience and discipline to view situations from the other person’s perspective. Relationships are always work in progress. We always have to seek to be climbing forward and upward to make them work. And, on reflection, that is probably where so much of the beauty in relationship building will lie — they are never static; they always demand renewal and “preventative maintenance”.

They are strengthened as a result of “the climb”; those times when conflict resolution skills are needed; those times when we are required to “walk a mile in the other person’s shoes”.

The preceding paragraph was challenging for me to write. Why was that so? It forced me to reflect on the relationships in my life. Crafting those words brought me face-to-face with the fact that there are aspects of my life that I need to review and revisit; I must determine how I am going to engage in a “better climb” in the relationships that I have forged with the significant persons in my life. And I invite you to join me in the exercise. How can we engage in a better climb as a parent, spouse, sibling, son or daughter, co-worker, neighbour, or friend? We all have the potential to do better. However, knowing what needs to be done is not enough. We have to be prepared to make the effort and (in some cases) be prepared to be vulnerable as we exert the extra effort, and energy to push ourselves up that next hill en route to a more beautiful and fulfilling experience. But we can do it! We have what it takes to make it! We know the noble end results that we desire ... and we press on undeterred by the obstacles (mental and otherwise) that may appear. We are committed to do whatever it takes to create and sustain a better self, a better family, a better neighbourhood, a better workplace, a better church assembly, and a better nation. We will create and sustain that vision of where we need to go ... and what we need to do to get there. We are determined to get there one step at a time. We know that, with God’s help, we can make great things happen if we keep our focus on the pursuit of noble dreams and goals, knowing that so much depends on our attitudes and commitment to the climb.

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

CARICOM and the Reparations Drive THE CLAIM FOR REPARATIONS took a major leap forward during the 4 to 6 July meeting of Caricom. The decision of regional leaders to pursue a strategy that will engage former colonial masters, with a view to seek an apology and recompense for the policies of genocide, slavery and indentureship, came at an important signpost: the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Chaguramas, which brought Caricom into being.

As the chairman of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Reparations Committee, with the opportunity to sit on the deliberations of regional leaders on the issue of reparations, I was overwhelmed by the level of support the initiative gained. I told the Vincentian Prime Minister that we must be heartened and go ahead with the case if two or three other countries joined SVG in its quest for reparations.

Ever the optimist, Gonsalves was confident that not only more than three countries will join, but that the decision to bring the reparations claim will meet unanimous support from the regional leadership. I sat in attendance, waiting for the first leader to posit a caution or opposing view. None did, and truth be told, this was most due to the tremendous diplomatic and persuasive skills of the Vincentian Prime Minister.

Another even more important reason for the support of Caricom leaders is that the time has come for the issue of reparations to be appreciated, understood and lobbied for by leaders of our region. They evidently and correctly believe that the issue of reparations is not only timely and just, but that the weight of underdevelopment, a direct consequence of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, slavery, indenture-ship and colonialism, cannot be adequately addressed and tackled unless there is a forthright conversation between the former colonized states of our region and the former colonial masters.

Proof that Caricom leaders were appreciative of the burden of underdevelopment is reflected in the fact that they unanimously agreed to expend political capital, as well as commit to putting financial resources, not only to support a research desk at the University of the West Indies, to be led by its Vice Chancellor, Dr Hillary Beckles, the author of Britain’s Black Debt.

There was also agreement by regional leaders to form reparations commissions in all of the territories, as well as fund a legal strategy that will lead to a conversation with the former colonials.

The commitment entails filing a case at the International Court of Justice once Britain, France and Holland fail to engage in good faith dialogue on their legacy of underdevelopment even as it is internationally recognized that these metropolitan countries were propelled to industrialization and development as a consequence of the enormous profits gained from the exploitation of unpaid labour, in the case of enslaved African, and cheap labour derived from indentured servants from India.

The seriousness and commitment of regional leaders can be gleaned from the fact that none of them are radicals in

the true sense of the word. They recognize the injustice done to the Caribbean states through slavery and indenture-ship. And so Frendel Stuart will chair the governments/state guiding committee, while the prime ministers of Antigua, Guyana, Surinam, Trinidad and Tobago and SVG lend recognition, support and seriousness to the work of the Barbadian PM. The decision of Caricom is historic and potentially epoch making. It was long said that the biggest impediment for reparations for former enslaved and indentured labourers, who now make up the majority of citizens of the Caribbean, are the deep-seated divisions and lack of unity among the political elite of the region. Caricom leaders, by their support for the reparations initiative, have cleared the first hurdle.

But the struggle and success of the battle for reparations will not be like instant coffee. This will be a long struggle.

The discussions and or legal battle will take years. Note that the case of the Mau Mau fighters of Kenya, who were brutally tortured by the British, took ten years before Britain finally agreed to pay reparations. We also bring to the attention of our people that the main reason why the United States and France engineered the overthrow of President Jean Bertrand Aristide of Haiti was because he raised the issue of reparations from France for the damage its slave policies did to Haiti, and the billions of dollars Haiti was forced to pay to France to secure its independence following its 1803 revolution , which was led by Toussaint and Dessalines.

We give this history to alert citizens to the fact that the British, French, Dutch and Americans will not take this Caricom decision lightly. They will plan and scheme to derail the Caricom reparations initiative. Some of the pushback will come through diplomatic means. Other forms of opposition will come through lending and donor agencies such as the IMF, World Bank and the European Union. Policies intending to make our vulnerable economies scream will be implemented.

As a last resort, schemes will be hatched to ensure that leaders and parties, that fully support the reparations effort, will be removed, by overthrow or underthrow, and replaced by more docile and accommodating leaders.

We must not be cowered into thinking that this reparations battle cannot be won. Central to the struggle that will ensure victory is national and regional unity. As Dr Hillary Beckles told the Caricom meeting: ‘After centuries of colonial occupation and slavery, the report card is clear. The Caribbean was ill-prepared for independence, primarily because it was robbed of its labour and natural resources which went to make others rich and developed.

Further, the region’s human resources and institutions were left in a dilapidated state.’

This is the history and basis for our underdevelopment. History and generations, yet unborn, will be unforgiving if our leaders and people refuse to seize the time and fight the good reparations fight. That time is now.

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

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12. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Mustique killing the

future of our young people SINCE TAKING OFFICE in 2001, Gonsalves has done little to help young people in SVG. At present, we have a very high level of youth unemployment, and Gonsalves’ gift to them was a useless jail.

In building the Belle Isle jail, Gonsalves condemns young people’s future to the bin. In one fell swoop, Gonsalves kills young people’s dreams, and illustrates that the ULP regime does not care about young people’s future.

The super-rich of Mustique and Canouan are given multi-million dollar tax and customs duty exemptions to import private jets, yachts, and build luxury mansions. These exemptions are killing the future of our young people.

It is difficult for young people to feel optimistic about their future, with Gonsalves as PM. For their sake, he should resign.

Under Gonsalves, young people face a bleak future. His financial ineptitude has broken the SVG economy, and now there are no jobs for them. Gonsalves’ choosing not to invest in young people, but allowing Mustique tax exemptions, is not just failing this generation of

young people, but future generations too.

The United Nations SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon says ‘failing to invest in our youth is a false economy.

Conversely, investing in young people will pay great dividends for all’. He says ‘we must do more for our young people. They are the leaders of tomorrow’.

A Green government will invest heavily in SVG’s youth. Their dreams, creativity and skills will be the foundation of SVG’s economy tomorrow, which is why we must invest in them today.

A Green government will provide a world-class education system and a free science and technology university for our young people. We will invest also in providing highly-skilled vocational training.

According to The Economist magazine, people who left school at the earliest opportunity are twice as likely to be unemployed as university graduates.

It says that, what matters is not just the number of years of education people get, but its content. This means expanding the study of science and

technology, and closing the gap between the world of education and the world of work–for example by upgrading vocational and technical education and by forging closer relations between companies and schools.

Germany’s long-established system of vocational schooling and apprenticeships does just that. Other countries are following suit: South Korea has introduced “meister” schools, Singapore has boosted technical colleges, and Britain is expanding apprenticeships and trying to improve technical education.

The apartheid and freeloading by Taiwan, Mustique and Canouan must end, so we can invest in our young

people. They owe billions of dollars to the SVG Treasury, and this will be paid under a Green government.

A Green government will end the blood sucking by the super-rich in Mustique and Canouan, by abolishing the Mustique Act and the Canouan Act. Under a Green government, innovation will drive the SVG economy, on a foundation of renewable energy and free wireless internet in every home and business in SVG. Young people should choose Green for a brighter future.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Give unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar TO TAKE FOR granted, or fail to give honour or a well-deserved credit to a person as they exist, and to do so after that person ceases existence, in my opinion, that is a level of disrespect, and nothing more than a sham.It is an insult to civilization, and our sensibility.

The past is but a memory, the present is now; the future is yet to be established. Many times, we take too many things and too many people for granted. It is not until we realize that time was not on our side, that we say I had intended to say this, or to do that. Time is not ours to own.

Give to Caesar what belongs to him while he remains Caesar, and the rest will be history.

There is no such thing as a ‘jumbie bashment’ or a ‘jumbie’ or ‘spirit celebration’.

Having mentioned all that, I must take this time to pay tribute to a true son of the soil. I have never met a more humble and genuine person, a person who has

always been consistent in maintaining good principles and policies, one who never seeks the attention or fame from the public, for having done good deeds.

It would be against my conscience not to give unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and I am positively sure I am not going to give unto Caesar what belongs to Shelly Clarke, the editor of the NEWS newspaper.

I have known this gentleman for over twenty years. This is a man who believes strongly in the rights, freedom and fairness of all human beings.

Despite his many challenges politically and otherwise, he never forsakes the poor, and he gives them the opportunity to have their views and concerns published, even though the publication may upset the powers that be, past or present. With his back against the wall, he stands firm and strong.

This is a man who champions the cause of the poorer class of people

by taking a stand where others fail to stand for what is right. This is a man who cannot be bought or sold by any government.

Last but not least, let us look at the fairness, openness, also the integrity and humanitarian ways of this man. You write a letter about the government or an institution, once that letter is based on truth and legality, and makes sense, your letter will be published.

Now you have certain publishers in this country, if you write truthfully or criticize constructively about a political party of which the publisher is in support, it simply means no publication of your letter.

You have all right to love your party, and let me go a step further to say, love the Prime Minister with all your heart, and the opposition Leader as well. But, what I don’t understand is where we learned or who taught us to love their sins as well.

Brother Clarke loves people and politicians, but he does not love their sins. Please follow his example, and you will not be disappointed.

Congratulations, my brother, and I know you will keep up the good work.

A. Belgrave

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 13.

Diaspora Politics

Cummings concerned about rule of law in SVG evidence.

In his maiden town hall meeting (last) Saturday night at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, New York, Cummings, the IN THE WAKE of the re-arrest of New Democratic Party (NDP) Member Opposition Senator Vynette Frederick, of Parliament for West Kingstown, her parliamentary colleague, Daniel said the magistrate “did the only Cummings, has expressed grave concern logical thing” in dismissing the about the rule of law in St. Vincent and “ridiculous” charges against Frederick. the Grenadines.

“You have a vehicle with eight Frederick, an attorney, was arrested police officers going to arrest a and slapped with nine charges just Member of Parliament on some hours after the court dismissed six frivolous charges, which again was charges against her, two Thursdays just thrown out by the court of law in ago. our country. That is what passes for She is expected to appear before open transparency and the rule of magistrate Rickie Burnett, on Jul. 31, law,” he said sarcastically at the town at the Mesopotamia Court House, on hall meeting, organized jointly by the reported charges of false declarations, Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the swearing falsely and fabricating

Grenadines Progressive Organization of New York (SPOONY), the NDP’s New York affiliate, and the SVG Movers and Shakers, comprising NDP New York supporters of West Kingstown.

“That is democracy of Labor (governments) in Senator Vynette MP Daniel Cummings the Caribbean,” he Frederick was questioned the state of charged in a 70-minute rearrested hours after a rule of law in SVG while presentation, followed by magistrate dismissed addressing a town hall a 35-minute question-and- six charges against her. meeting in New York. answer session. community “Where are the international about the clear removal of our way of organizations that jump when some economic interest is being threatened?” life in the Caribbean?

“Is it that we have to wait for Cummings asked rhetorically. “Where another opportunity to jump on, as we is the outcry from the international did in Grenada (in the murder of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and Section of his close associates during the audience at revolution)?” he added. “Why are we town hall not being more open and transparent? meeting.

“Surely, there are legal normal mechanisms that can be used to put pressure on these governments before we get into difficulty,” continued Cummings, pointing out that the house of the Speaker in St. Kitts has “recently been shot at.”

“I join you in saying to Vynette Frederick, ‘she is on the right side,’ still operating,” the ball by she’s on the Lord’s side,” he said, Cummings said. “refusing to stating that no governments will be “People who run spray and allow shops will tell you (black) sigatoka allowed to “trample on the legitimate that the highest sales are on (disease) to rights of us as a people. We will not Sunday morning, because, ravage the remain silent. We will make sure that Cummings addressing town hall for some families, that’s how banana the days of these…are numbered.” meeting, while former NDP candidate it’s difficult. industry.”

The original six charges dismissed Steven ‘Scumbo’ John looks on.

“I agonize when families According to against Frederick surrounded evidence tell me they have four the United that she submitted as part of private fully address “very serious children, and only one can Nations’ Rome, Italy-based security problems” with complaint against Prime Minister Dr. go to school,” he added, Food and Agriculture yachts.

Ralph Gonsalves after the December stating that “our economy Organization (FAO), banana “We’ve been appealing to 2010 general elections. has been devastated.” and plantain exports from the government to step up Magistrate Burnett upheld an April He blamed the St. Vincent and the security,” he said.

2013 defense submission that the six government for alleged Grenadines and Guyana “I’m not an economist, charges against the former NDP problems in, among other have fallen by 90 to 100 but you cannot develop a candidate lacked details. things, the tourism, percent as a result of black people if you don’t have an agriculture, health and sigatoka.

But police re-arrested Frederick in a economy,” he added. “This energy sectors.

“It is an emergency,” he restaurant where she was having government does not seem Claiming that he speaks said. lunch with her attorneys, relatives and to understand or to care. from the heart, Cummings Cummings also charged members of the NDP, including We’ve appealed to put some charged that the Gonsalves- that the Vincentian Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace, a money for yachts and led administration dropped government has failed to former prime minister. security.”

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

Economic picture of SVG bleak, says Cummings DANIEL CUMMINGS, the NDP’s shadow Minister of Health, Public Utilities and Housing, also painted a very bleak picture of the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines — a similar picture painted by Eustace, when the addressed nationals at the same venue in New York a few months ago.

Cummings made the assessment during an address to a town hall meeting in New York, last Saturday. (See accompanying story on this page.)

“I want to challenge you to look at the shops that are

Support the airport but….

DANIEL CUMMINGS has urged Vincentian nationals to fully support the construction of the international airport at Argyle, but at the same time, that they should ask, “What will it take for that to happen?”

He offered the advice while addressing a town hall meeting held last Saturday in New York, and organized jointly the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Progressive Organization of New York (SPOONY), the

NDP’s New York affiliate, and the SVG Movers and Shakers, comprising NDP New York supporters of West Kingstown.

Cummings, NDPOpposition Member of Parliament for West Kingstown, said he was concerned about the cost of building the international airport, and the allegedly lack of concrete studies done, including wind studies, prior to commencement of construction.

Claiming that the terminal

is “not properly designed,” Cummings, predicts, “we will have serious corrosion problems,” in addition to a huge energy bill.

He urged the government to disclose what planes and airlines will be coming to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and how much they will be paid, on completion of the international airport.

“Nothing this government does, gives me confidence,” said Cummings, claiming that, apart from the “Coalition

The terminal building at the international airport site at Argyle is into an advanced stage of construction. of the Willing” that the money into the international Gonsalves administration said airport. is assisting in constructing the “It sickens to the core,” he international airport, “no added. international agency (has) put

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14. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Twenty to ÂholdÊ a car

“If in the doctors’ opinion, you are not in the best medical condition to continue, you will be disqualified,” said London-Williams.

ahead.

Following the TWENTY PERSONS will inspection session, there today compete in the test was a brief press of a life time, as they conference during which attempt to win the coveted Regional and prize of the Mazda RX8 car Commercial Manager at in the grand finale of the the Brewery, Shafia Hairoun Beer promotion London- Williams, ‘Hai Life’. spelled out the rules and The activity is regulations of the scheduled for Heritage competition.

Square, Kingstown.

The competition is On Tuesday 16th expected to be a rigorous members of the media, one and a real test of competitors and human endurance. representatives from the The competition will National Lotteries begin at 11am and will Authority (NLA) last for up to 24 hours. converged on the St. Participants are Vincent Brewery Ltd. expected to physically compound at Campden hold onto the car with Park, where the their palms open wide at personnel from NLA all times. Once the hand engaged in an inspection is removed, then that session, after which person is disqualified approval was given for from the competition. the competition to go During the course of

by KENVILLE HORNE

Some of the participants in the Hairoun ‘Hai Life’ (Hold a Car) promotion get a feel of the car before the big day. the competition, participants would not be allowed any solid food, but will be fed liquid substances, such as milk base products, fruit

drinks or water.

After the first 12 hours, there will be a 10 minute break to allow for medical checks.

“If in the doctors’ opinion, you are not in the best medical condition to continue, you will be disqualified,” said London-Williams.

She assured the gathering that all the participants had to undergo medical tests to confirm their fitness to particicpate.

And as if the forementioned is not challenging enough, London-Williams disclosed that during the course of the contest, the participants will not be sheltered; they will be exposed to the elements, while music is blasted from music systems, and persons partying wildly and loudly, in keeping with the usual Friday activity at Heritage Square on the weekend.

If after the 24 hours have elapsed and more than one participant remain, they must seek out the correct key (for the car) from a box; the competitor with the correct keys will be the winner.

THE VINCENTIAN spoke with a few of the contestants.

Yoland Glasgow, from Byrea, one of the two ladies in the competition, said her husband bought a beer and discovered the hand sign inside the cork; he was kind enough

to give it to her. Yoland was quite delighted to be in the competition, and stated that if she is the winner she intends to keep the car since she is in need of one.

Nicolas Butcher from Layou entered the competition in a similar fashion.

His niece found a hand sign inside the cork from a beer she purchased and gave it to him. “ I feel good, because I have a chance to win a car,” said Butcher. He said he intends to sell the car if successful.

“Me cyar drive,” was his explanation.

Shafia LondonWilliams, Regional and Commercial Manager at the Brewery, gave a detailed explanation of the ‘rules of the game’.

(L-R): Yoland Glasgow and Nicolas Butcher, two participants with whom THE VINCENTIAN spoke.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 15.

Government

National Health Survey launched

“The health of the nation depends on our collective focus,” Duncan stressed.

National Epidemiologist Dr. Jennifer George outlined aspects of the survey to be conducted under the theme, ‘Cooperate, participate, be accurate’.

She disclosed that one hundred and fourteen field workers have been trained for the task.

Health, Wellness and Environment Minister Clayton Burgin is anxious for the findings, and was overjoyed that the venture had moved from “page to stage.”

Burgin outlined the importance of the survey, and noted its focus on lifestyles.

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

DR. ROGER DUNCAN, this country’s Medical Officer of Health, is putting the health of this nation in the hands of the individual.

He made the point last Tuesday, July 16, at the launch of the National Health and Nutrition Survey, held at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown.

Results of the survey are expected to be ready by January 2014. By then, 26 households in each of 199 districts throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines would have been questioned by field workers attached to the Ministry.

It is estimated that 6000 resident Vincentians would be questioned during the survey.

The health challenge Dr. Duncan outlined the impact of Hypertension and Diabetes on this nation, and disclosed that the two factors posed the “greatest burden on our health services.

“Some of the complications experienced as a result of Chronic Non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) are strokes, amputations, blindness and kidney failure.”

Duncan put the cost of treating these ailments at close to $1,000 per patient each year.

“Poorer households carry a heavier burden, as they spend as much as 48 per cent of their per capita expenditure on health, while the richest spend less than 20 percent,” Dr. Duncan told the launching ceremony.

The Medical Officer of Health pointed to cancers or malignant Neoplasms as the leading cause of

Other plans for health services Medical Officer of Health Dr. Roger Duncan called for full support for the survey.

death between 2001 and 2010, emphasizing that prostate cancer was the leading cause of death amongst males.

Admitting that little was known about the risk factors and the extent to which they contributed to the high burden of chronic diseases among adults here, Dr. Duncan highlighted that, “The national health and nutrition survey will attempt to address this,” adding that, “By establishing baseline data on risk factors, we could develop and implement effective strategies aimed at reducing risk factors”.

As far as he is a concerned, the survey is a national effort, and he wants everyone to be involved.

Juno De Roche hands over sponsorship cheque to Summer Programme participant Aja Neverson.

Digicel assists Library’s Summer Programme

by KENVILLE HORNE THE NATIONAL Public Library Archives and Documentation Services Summer Programme, has received sponsorship from telecommunication company Digicel.

Marketing Manager at Digicel, Juno DeRoche, on Monday July 15th, handed over a sponsorship cheque during the launch of the Summer Programme, called, Children Library Annual Programme (CLAP).

During the launching at the National Library in Richmond Hill, Director of Libraries, Michelle King-Campbell expressed thanks to Digicel, stating that it is good when companies can assist.

“Our programme this year has attracted some 130 participants and several corporate sponsors who have

Minister of Health Clayton Burgin is happy that the surbey has moved from ‘page to stage.’

graciously assisted with providing prizes for the participants,” said KingCampbell.

“We wish to formally thank our sponsors for assisting the National Library with the 2013 programme, and more importantly for investing in the future and development of our children,” she added.

DeRoche said that the Public Library’s summer programme, which this year carries the theme, ‘Working together for a better environment: From trash to treasure’, is a very good way to teach children about the importance of the environment.

She conveyed her company’s willingness to assist such a meaningful cause.

“We are always glad when we can assist,” said DeRoche.

Health Planner David Latchman addressed the gathering in place of Project Officer Dr. Sterling Mungal, who was slated to represent the 10th European Development Fund, the source of funding for the survey.

Latchman highlighted plans for physical works within the health system: the restoration work at the Mental Health Centre and at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital; construction of a Polyclinic at Buccament; refurbishment to a facility in Marriaqua; construction of doctors’ quarters at Chateaubelair, Canouan, Mesopotamia, and Sandy Bay;, and a new Staff Hostel in Union Island.

He also referred to the provision of ambulances and other health services related vehicles, and scholarship and training opportunities for health personnel as also being included in the European Development Fund assistance programme.

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16. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute- Diaspora

Voices from the diaspora about Pat Prescod

based group that bestowed the Lifetime Achievement Award on PATRICK PRESCOD, renowned Prescod last Vincentian-born musician, composer, December: arranger, passed away on Thursday, July “After 11. He was 81 years old. reading and The reach of this humble soul informing our touched every corner of his homeland, members of his the wider Caribbean and the world, contribution to the latter through his work with The the music scene in Kingstown Chorale, a choir of St. Vincent and the exceptional standard, which he Grenadines, he was selected, along founded. with three others, to receive the THE VINCENTIAN is pleased to Lifetime Achievement Award. share some sentiments by persons in As a musical genius and pioneer, the New York, USA Diaspora, on the Richards noted that Prescod touched passing of this great man. the lives of countless Vincentians.

He impressed on us the true meaning of humility and selflessness, Franklyn ‘Supadex’ Richards some of the same attributes the -President of VincyCares, the Internet- VincyCares tries to emulate as an Compiled by: NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.cm US CORRESPONDENT

organization.

“We are sure that he is sitting at ‘The right hand of God,’ a hymn or gift that he left us with,” he added.

“Vincentians are proud of the gentle son of the soil who had given so much of himself and will continue to be an inspiration to many.

“VincyCares joins with the nation in celebrating the life of a great innovator and motivator, and expresses sincere Patrick Prescod endeared himself to condolences to his immediate family in all with whom he came into contact, the loss of one of the best musicians of with his grace and warm smile. our time.” erstwhile Kingstown Chorale member: “Pat Prescodd was a local and Verna Arthur regional icon.

When you think of music, the first - Ex-member of person [who] comes to mind is Pat. the Kingstown “His love for and mastery of music Chorale, made him one of the best in the founded by Caribbean.

Pat Prescod, Personally, Pat was more than a and public mentor to me… . As a young teenager, relations he practically took me under his officer of the ‘wings’, and taught me so much about Brooklynsinging and the joy that can be derived based cultural from doing it well.” and educational (In fact) I received my only formal organization, Club training in singing from Prescod. It St. Vincent, Inc.: has taken me to great heights.

“I had the esteem privilege of He will always be my best visiting Uncle Pat, as he was ‘accompanist’ and my greatest fan; a affectionately called, while home for great man with a gentle and humble VincyMas. The smile and appreciation spirit. he exhibited as I entered his room will Patrick Prescod would always be stay with me for some time to come. remembered by all who had the “Yes, we conversed, by him privilege to work with him. May his responding with either a bright smile, dear soul, departed, rest in peace!” a nod or his soft voice.

I reminded Prescod of a few experiences that occurred when he was Pamela Mornix director of the Kingstown Chorale, including the many occasions he - ex-member of the Kingstown Chorale demonstrated his sharp sense of and Kingstown Methodist Church hearing when, during rehearsals, he so youth choir, under Prescod’s keenly identified and openly named directorship: any member standing/sitting all the “Prescod was so humble, very way at the back row that sang a wrong patient, and somebody you could note. always go and talk to — well down-toA very healthy smile illuminated earth — somebody you looked up to. the room (with) his brother, Fred, Pat was a unique individual.” joining in our nostalgic moment,” she said.

Ricardo ‘Ram’ Bennett “Gone but certainly would not be forgotten. Our musical ambassador, - a trained lawyer and accountant, who maestro and cultural icon, rest in lived in Cane Garden, Kingstown, peace. You are certainly before migrating to New York: at ‘The Right Hand of “Pat Prescod was a father, a mentor.

God’.”

He was an inspiration not only to the Kingstown Chorale but to the community at large.

Even in death, Pat (Prescod) - former aide to St. continues to inspire generations to Erlene Williamscome.

King Pat was a stalwart…he molded a lot of personalities, not Vincent and the only in music but also in social Grenadines’ New welfare. He used his musical ability York Consul to inspire others.”

General and

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 17.

Tribute

Tribute to ÂSirÊ Pat Prescod people and launching the careers, noteworthily so, of several young musicians; in fact, it is safe to say every musician he came into contact with benefitted immensely from such - one such example being Sean Sutherland, our best pianist since Pat. Pat, as his friends called him, suffered from ill health in his later years, and for the past several months had to be cared for at the Thompson Home in Patrick Prescod entertained the folks at the Thompson Kingstown.

Pat, a remarkably Home during a ceremony of recognition of him by Staff humble person in and Students of the C. W. Prescod Primary School, spite of his many November 2012. musical gifts, often

by COLIN KING as Mother Teresa and refused publicity where Martin Luther King. favourable mention was HISTORICALLY, EXAMPLES It was with a sense of due. He truly only ABOUND OF MEN (AND shock that I learned of believed in the greater WOMEN) WHO LIVED the death, last Thursday, good, and will be THEIR LIVES WITH A of Patrick, my dear remembered, possibly for SENSE OF SACRIFICE for friend, who sacrificed a eternity, as a venerable ‘the greater good’. I rank brilliant career as a musician and human stellar, former music prize-winning pianist being. officer ‘Sir’ Patrick and performer, to give Pat did perform in Prescod in the company of back to our little country, SVG considerably, but international names such enriching our young

most liberally so as an accompanist. There was no piece of music put before him that he could not play. His passion though, was of teaching music to the young and old. He had the highest pass rate of students sitting Royal Schools of Music local exams, and I owe my own Grade 8 pass in theory to his intervention and tying up any loose ends, avid theorist as I was on the occasion of that exam.

He could play any genre. He accompanied the pop songs and standards of the Kingstown Chorale, a musical vocal group which is easily on par with the likes of famous choirs worldwide, even the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, directly because of his quiet and harmonious, patient insistence on excellence as a director.

How well I remember being a member of the Grammar School choir, under his directorship, which featured then, and

past students, for multiple wins at the music festival in the late 80s. And there is more for which this institution owes Pat, not least being that it was he who composed the School’s song, ‘Per Aspera ad Astra’.

So how did Pat affect me as a musician?

I learnt from Pat early that a classical music foundation is essential, even if you go on to pop and jazz. (Incidentally his nephew Ian Prescod Gluade followed up on classical, as I branched off into jazz.) We worked a lot on our favourite composer Mozart, and I owe, the only perfect score of 100 in the music festivals history, on a Mozart piece a quintet on his special instruction feel the music’. It was very probable that his accompaniment inspired my performance.

We did have one disagreement. I participated in three music festivals with Pat, and as most outstanding

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musician received a cash award of EC$500 or so.

On the second win, Pat instructed me to donate the prize money towards buying classical music.

Of course at that age, I wanted to spend the money on ‘nice time’.

One of the pieces he ordered for me was a sonata by the French composer Camille SaintSaens, which I played in the very next festival. He let me keep the money from that one.

Most people don’t know it, but Pat did write classical music of his own. I am one of the very few associates to know this. He played me a sparkling, glittering piece which seemed a cross between Debussy and Mozart.

“What was that”” I asked.

“Oh, just a little something I am working on,” he quipped.

Pat, I know wherever you are now, you are listening to the musical account of your heavenly Genius. God speed.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 19.

18. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013 THE VINCENTIAN

Overview of the National Health Survey 2013 30th September 2013 to 30th November 2013 Nutrition The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is on the verge of conducting the first ever National Health and Nutrition survey (NHNS) in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. The survey is being funded under the 10th European Development Fund (EDF) Project under the theme “Modernization of the Health Sector”.

Technical support for the survey is being provided by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

The main objective of the 10th EDF is to contribute specified resources toward the continuous development of an efficient, effective and sustainable health care delivery system for the population especially preventing and managing the prioritized Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (CNCDs).

Further, the specific objectives of the 10th EDF are: 1. Improving management of CNCDs 2. Improving Delivery & Management of Health Care Services and establishing sustainable financing 3. Improving and Rationalising Resources Development Under the specific objective “Improving management of CNCDs”, there are three (3) line activities which are to be implemented in order to facilitate its achievement. They are: 1. Implementation of the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2. Development of Wellness Policy as a basis for targeted action against lifestyle diseases (overweight, obesity, Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus) 3. Implementation of targeted actions NHNS Timeline for the Fieldwork

average income ¾ Behavioural: • Tobacco use • Alcohol Consumption • Diet • Physical Activity • History of raised blood pressure • History of raised diabetes • History of raised total cholesterol • History of cardiovascular disease • Lifestyle advice • Cervical cancer screening • Family history • Health Screening • Dietary salt The STEP 2 Data is as follows: 1)

Physical Measurements ¾ Blood pressure ¾ Heart rate ¾ Height ¾ Weight ¾ Waist circumference

The STEP 3 Data is as follows: 1)

Biochemical Measurements ¾ Blood glucose ¾ Blood lipids ¾ Triglycerides ¾ HDL cholesterol

Purpose of the NHNS

The Nutrition Intake Data is a follows: 1) 24 hour recall ¾ Foods consumed ¾ Portion sizes

The NHNS will prove critical in providing the information needed for:

Eligibility Criteria for the NHNS

The survey will be conducted during the period 30th September 2013 to 30th November 2013

• • •

policy and programme development appropriate legislation for CNCD prevention and control support in the monitoring and evaluation of the progress made in implementing policies and programmes.

Goals of the NHNS •

•

To develop and strengthen the country’s capacity to better monitor non-communicable diseases and their risk factors by implementing a population based survey (NHNS) using the Pan American STEPS methodology To assess mean energy, nutrient and food intake, nutritional adequacy and dietary patterns and their relationship to obesity and other CNCD risk factors using 24-hour recall methodology

Objectives of the NHNS • • • • • • •

To collect data on the current levels of risk factors for chronic diseases in St. Vincent and the Grenadines To collect data on the nutritional intake and dietary patterns of the population in St. Vincent and the Grenadines To monitor and evaluate the trends of risk factors nationally To develop standardized tools to enable comparisons over time and across countries To prevent chronic disease epidemics before they occur To provide information in order to develop a Health & Wellness/Public Awareness Strategy To assist health services in the planning and determination of public health priorities

Persons being interviewed for the NHNS must meet the following criteria: ¾

Belong within the age group of 18-69 years old

¾

Appear in the interviewer’s judgment to be capable of understanding the information provided about the survey and who is therefore able to provide informed consent (i.e. must not be intoxicated, doped sick or cognitively challenged) ¾ Currently live or work in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ¾ Be able to understand English Target sample for the NHNS The number of persons to be enumerated is five thousand one hundred and eighty (5180) persons between the ages of 18-69 years old. The survey will be conducted throughout the Island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines namely St. Vincent, Bequia, Mustique, Canouan and Union Island. A total of 199 enumeration districts have been selected while only 26 of the households in each enumeration district will be enumerated.

NHNS Fieldwork The NHNS will be divided into two main parts. 5180 persons will be asked to provide information on data for STEPS 1 and 2 as outlined above. Only 2590 persons will be asked to proved information on all STEPS 1, 2 and 3 and the nutrition intake (24 hour recall).

Methodology of the NHNS

MINISTRY OF HEALTH, WELLNESS AND THE ENVIRONMENTS’ APPEAL

The methodology of the NHNS is based on an integrated, phased and standardized approach which allows the development of a comprehensive risk profile for the national population. The methodology is two (2) fold which applies the following:

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is appealing to members of the public that may be selected to….. COOPERATE….PARTICIPATE……BE ACCURATE YOUR HEALTH – A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

1.

Pan American Version of WHO STEPS version 3.0 (Step1, Step 2 and Step 3 - Core and Expanded - and optional modules) 2.

Nutrition Intake - 24 Hour recall

Data to be collected by the NHNS The survey will collect data on three (3) STEPS and an additional module on Nutrition Intake during 24 hours.

The STEP 1 Data is as follows: ¾ Demographics • Sex, Age, Level of education, annual

Address delivered by Hon Clayton Burgin, Minister for Health, Wellness and the Environment, at the Launch of the National Health and Nutrition Survey, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the Methodist Church Hall.

Address delivered by Hon Clayton Burgin, Minister for Health, Wellness and the Environment, at the Launch of the National Health and Nutrition Survey, on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at the Methodist Church Hall.

2) It is with enormous joy and satisfaction that I stand here this morning in my capacity as the political head of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment to address you at the official launch of the National Health and Nutrition Survey. I am overjoyed that we are now at this moment, having moved this National Health and Nutrition Survey from page to stage, and given that it is one of the many components of the 10th EDF project, which is designed to modernise and further develop the national Health sector. And I express my gratitude to the European Union, through the 10th EDF, for enabling us to bring our dream to reality. And I assure you that with that project, funds have been allocated specifically for addressing chronic diseases here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I am, however, aware, ladies and gentlemen, and I am confident that you, too, are aware that it appears that the 10th EDF project is quite messy at this juncture, in much the same way as the foundation is laid and implemented for any research project. But I cling adhesively to the view that it will eventually t-ake shape, the form that the National Authorising Officer and her team and my professionals and I have envisaged.

Ladies and gentlemen, this risk factor surveillance survey demonstrates the Government’s commitment to strengthening the response to chronic non-communicable diseases in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The information which will be gathered will facilitate the further development of our policies and strategies designed to combat the epidemic of chronic non-communicable diseases, which continue to be the leading global causes of death, resulting in more deaths than all other causes combined. However, ladies and gentlemen, chronic non communicable diseases could be significantly reduced, saving lives, through the reduction of their risk factors, early detection and timely treatments.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Caribbean has been responding to the issue of chronic diseases since the early 1960s. And, ladies and gentlemen, the collective action in health was formalized in 1986 as the Caribbean Cooperation in Health Initiative, which is now into its 3rd phase, 2010-2015, and whose backbone is grounded in the fact that Caribbean health can be improved through actions taken universally and collectively. It is noted that the current priorities for action under the Caribbean Cooperation in Health III include chronic diseases, where the cited goals are to reduce deaths by 2% per year and to reduce serious, costly complications such as amputations or renal failure.

Ladies and gentlemen, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is among the member states which have adopted the Caribbean Cooperation in Health III, and as a consequence, all of the member states have strongly supported regional and global initiatives. As recently as 2007, the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community met in Trinidad and Tobago at a special Regional Summit on Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases. And this, ladies and gentlemen, was one of the first of its kind in any region, in any corner of the world. At that meeting, ladies and gentlemen, it was declared that there will be “full support for the initiatives and mechanisms aimed at strengthening regional health institutions, to provide critical leadership required for implementing our agreed strategies for the reduction of the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases as a central priority of the Caribbean Cooperation in Health Initiative Phase.”

This, ladies and gentlemen, is being coordinated by the CARICOM Secretariat, with able support from the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation, and other relevant partners.

And this is the position that the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has taken. The National Health and Nutrition Survey is, therefore, just one of the fundamental components of the Port of Spain Declaration 2007 that will lead to the achievement of other components, namely the development of a communication strategy for chronic non-communicable diseases. And to date, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has accomplished the following: 1) National Infrastructure, in which there is an

3)

4)

5)

6)

7)

8)

established Wellness Committee which will form the platform in which we are able to monitor chronic diseases and develop the relevant policies and strategies.

Surveillance, under which we are currently strengthening Health Information, through the implementation of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Health Information System. This system will enable us to manage and treat all clients with chronic diseases and all other diseases. This risk factor survey is our second milestone under this component.

Tobacco, with which the Framework Conven tion on Tobacco Control was ratified in Parlia ment, and which allows us to prevent smoking in public places, minimize smoking promotion campaigns and move to implementing a complete cessation programme.

Food Security, with the Cabinet giving approval for the Nutrition policy, which addresses “no trans fat” and “labeling of foods”. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has already developed the National Dietary Guide lines which guide our national programme.

Active Living, where the Ministries of Health and Sports host community wide activities that engage community members to adopt and adapt active-healthy life styles through physical activity and health education. In the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, we commemorate, annually, every 2nd Saturday in September, “Caribbean Wellness Day”, with a week of activities which culminates on the said Saturday with a walk from various points in the suburban areas to one central point.

Schools, with all schools throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines listing a physical education program among the curriculum offerings.

Feeding programmes are also established in all primary schools.

Screening and Integrated Management, under which our primary health care services have fully implemented diabetic foot care manage ment and trained a cadre of health professionals.

Ladies and gentlemen, our mandate was further cemented in 2011 at the International level, when we joined the United Nations high-level meeting on non-communicable disease preven tion and control NCD Summit in New York to shape the international agenda. This was paramount, as it was the second time in the history of the United Nations that the General Assembly met on a health issue, the first being HIV and AIDS. And through this forum, ladies and gentlemen, we have further recognized the primary role and responsibility of our Govern ment in responding to the challenge of non-com municable diseases, as well as the essential need for the efforts and engagement of all sectors of society to generate effective responses for the prevention and control of non-communi cable diseases.

Ladies and gentlemen, improved access to services throughout this country and improvements in treatment for communicable diseases has resulted in longer life expectancy here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

As people live longer, chronic non communicable diseases become more prominent, particularly in comparison to infectious diseases, and are creating a serious burden on the health system. Among the numerous factors which contribute to non communicable diseases are high blood pressure, obesity, high blood sugar and high cholesterol. In this regard, we can also add smoking, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and alcohol abuse.

Ladies and gentlemen, non communicable diseases are considered diseases of lifestyle. And this is a phrase which highlights the fact that the prevention of these diseases at individual and societal levels requires behavioural changes. They are among the top causes of mortality throughout our blessed land, and their increasing incidence has resulted in rising costs for treatment, creating a burden on society.

Ladies and gentlemen, in this regard, we continue to benefit from technical assistance offered by numerous partners. And permit me, ladies and gentlemen, at this juncture, to acknowledge and give special recognition to the Pan American Health Organisation, the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre, now the Caribbean Public Health Agency

(CARPHA), and the European Union.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Pan American Health Organisation has been the lead agency in the region with respect to stemming chronic diseases in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The extremely broad range of technical assistance and capacity building for our human resource has been enormous ly priceless. And with the support of PAHO/WHO, ladies and gentlemen, we are now able to implement a standardized survey that is being used beyond our borders. It allows us to be compared with countries in our region and all other regions of the world. This, ladies and gentlemen, is a good marker for us to determine where we are ranked as a country as it relates to risk factors for chronic diseases.

In addition, ladies and gentlemen, CARPHA, the new regional public health agency, is the new entity that has absorbed the functions of the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre, among others, in order to strengthen surveillance systems for chronic non-communicable diseases.

CARPHA has already started to offer training throughout our region for all countries which have implemented this very same risk factor survey, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not an exception.

I am, therefore, indeed pleased to state here this morning that we have already started to benefit immensely from the CARPHA interventions and we look forward to continued support in this regard.

Ladies and gentlemen, this Health and Nutrition Survey, which will be conducted nationwide, will give focus to our lifestyle as a people, with the results being used to develop, monitor and improve health and nutrition policies and services locally.It is, therefore, my expectation that, as citizens, we will understand and appreciate the importance of this exercise at the personal and national levels, as the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment seeks to ascertain the health and nutritional status of all citizens in order to determine the prevalence of major diseases and risk factors for diseases. I assure you all that the information gleaned will only be used to assess nutritional status and its association with health promotion and disease prevention. And given that it seems to suggest that as a country we have experienced increased growth in the number of older people during this century, the aging population has major implications for health care needs, public health, and research priorities. The data about the distribution of health problems and risk factors in the population will, therefore, provide my staff with the important clues to the causes of disease. And this will also allow them to detect the extent to which various health problems and risk factors have changed over time. And so, ladies and gentlemen, by identifying the health care needs of the population, as a consequence of the National Health and Nutrition Survey, the professionals within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment will be able to establish priorities and plan research, education and health promotion programmes that will help improve the present health status of citizens and prevent future health problems.

I would, therefore, wish to take this opportunity to thank the professionals within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment for the tremendous work which has been done to bring this survey to the stage where it is being launched today. The National Epidemiologist, Dr Jennifer George, and her team truly deserve the highest commendation in this regard. I thank, too, the European Union and CARPHA for their solid support in this regard.

Ladies and gentlemen, my expectations are indeed enormous, and I look forward anxiously to the reading of the findings. I, therefore, thank you all for being here today, and use this opportunity to officially launch the National Health and Nutrition Survey.

Thank you all.

20. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 21.

22. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 23.

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24. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

LAW

Statement by The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Bar Association on the arrest of Senator Vynnette Frederick THE SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES BAR ASSOCIATION (the Bar Association) deplores the arrest on Thursday, July 11th 2013 of Senator Vynnette Frederick, a member of the Utter Bars of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago, and the horrific and cruel manner in which it was carried out.

In particular, the Bar Association is deeply troubled that Senator Frederick’s arrest without a warrant, satisfied none of the grounds on which an arrest can be made without a warrant, as set out in Section 30 of the Criminal Procedure Code CAP 171, Laws of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Revised Edition 2009. The arrest was therefore, UNLAWFUL. The Bar Association also condemns the taking of our Member into custody by force. The manner in which the eight (8) police officers including three (3) of the SSU, carried out Senator Frederick’s arrest was in the style reserved for hardened and habitual criminals or someone who had committed a serious offence. Yet, after her arrest, she was granted station bail. It is important for the public to know that “station bail” is granted to persons who are alleged to have committed minor offences.

The inescapable conclusion the Bar Association draws from the brutal manner in which Sen. Frederick was taken into custody is that the act was calculated to embarrass and humiliate her as a Member of the Bar and a Senator in the House of Assembly. It would not be unreasonable to say that the exercise was actuated by motives other than, and therefore inconsistent with, the maintenance of law and order. In this regard, the Bar Association agrees completely with the last sentence of the editorial of the Searchlight newspaper of Tuesday 16th July 2013 when it said, “It seems as though the sole intention of last Thursday’s fiasco was to humiliate the young woman, which makes one wonder, is she being prosecuted or persecuted?”

We believe that the arrest of any citizen must be based on the contravention of state laws, and even then, basic courtesies, such as dignity of person and respect for modern norms of decency, must be always observed. The treatment of Sen. Frederick fell well below these standards.

It still behoves Dr. The Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, in his capacity as

Senator Vynnette Frederick was rearrested hours after charges against her were dismissed.

Minister of National Security; Mrs Judith Jones-Morgan, the Attorney General; Mr Colin Williams, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Commissioner of Police Mr Keith Miller to denounce, whether actually or constructively, such disregard for Sen. Frederick’s constitutionally enshrined right to personal liberty and protection of her person.

We therefore call on all persons and institutions that love liberty and the rule of law, including the Christian Council, the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Chamber of Commerce, the Trinidad and Tobago Bar Association, the OECS Bar Association, sister Caricom Bar Associations, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the Commonwealth Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the United Nations Human Rights Association to raise their voices in protest against the actions of the Police for the events of 11th July 2013.

In the context of our member’s arrest, the Bar Association feels obliged to warn the citizens of St Vincent and the Grenadines and noncitizens resident here: The disregard for and violation of Vynnette Frederick’s constitutional rights as citizen, lawyer and Senator is a clear threat to the rest of the population and a signal that anyone could be treated likewise. For, if due process and civility are not afforded to Sen. Frederick, how therefore can Vincentians in general feel protected from abuse by the instruments of the state?

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 25.

Community

Rainbow Radio League Inc. – „On the ball‰

did not have a VHF marine radio with him, so that minimized his chances of rescue.

His cell phone probably ran out of credit, battery became depleted or the boat may have drifted out of cell phone range, so contact was lost with him.

The appeal here is that all fishermen NEED Nurses communicating with peers in the field to have a VHF marine radio with during simulation.

Aerial search and a spare battery the staging of their Who said nurses can’t put out a fire ! rescue and antenna, which annual mass casualty Soca should be taken along management simulation Monarch In mid June, Bequia with other emergency always the need for extra fisherman Evan supplies, including signal exercise. That event was Security eyes to spot any a great success.

All Chambers went on a flares, every time they go disturbances and to bring stakeholders, including RRL volunteers also regular fishing trip, to sea. it to the attention of the the SSU, Fire and Traffic teamed up with NEMO developed engine trouble, relevant authority. departments of the Police staff to provide and despite aerial and Nurses’ simulation Fortunately, there were Force, performed emergency maritime searches, has no skirmishes during admirably during this communications services not yet been found. The Early in July, the RRL that event and, from all training exercise. during the recently held RRL Director from played an active role in appearances, patrons The training Soca Monarch show.

Bequia, Sylvester the planning and had an enjoyable time simulated a fire and This show normally Tannis, along with other execution of the disaster while dedicated lawmen members, mounted a management course with subsequent explosion on attracts well over ten and other volunteers the school compound, thousand patrons, and search and rescue the Department of looked after their safety with final year students besides having a strong mission to support the Nursing Education and well being. police presence, there is having to manage the effort by the local Coast (formerly called the RRL volunteers were event with support of the Guard. Mr. Chambers School of Nursing), and major stakeholders.

IT IS FAIR TO SAY THAT MEMBERS OF THE RAINBOW RADIO LEAGUE INC. (RRL) are always in a state of readiness to assist with communications and other voluntary services should the need arise, but historically from June 1st , the RRL is in a state of heightened alert.

The following reports give some insight into the role the RRL performs as a non-profit, community service organisation.

Some of the volunteer spotters being briefed by pilot before aerial search.

also in a state of readiness for the passage of Tropical Storm Chantal.

Persons interested in supporting the work of the RRL can contact us at: rainbow_radio_league@y ahoo.com with the subject: “RRL support”.

Submitted by: Donald De Riggs

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26. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

An uncaring husband

he is certainly not the man I MY HUSBAND is not giving me married 11 the attention that I deserve, years ago. I and it is driving me crazy! I cannot do thought that when we got married, we would be spending this anymore, a lot of time together or at and I feel least, he would make me his top priority. Instead, what he is like running now doing is spending most of away and leave everybody to look out for themselves. his time with his job.

He leaves home very early Stressed W in the morning and returns very late at night. I am left Dear Stressed W, at home with the children, and 3 of them are very I hate to break the news to young. When he gets home, I you, but here goes: Things am either asleep or very will and do change after the frustrated. If I ask him to birth of the first child. help me with one or two of The time you shared them, he gets mad and tells me that he is tired and had a together now has to be shared with someone else, and that hard day himself, then goes transition is most times not off to sleep, leaving me to fend for myself with one or easily made; it can cause two crying children. some rocky moments if not I tried to talk to him about handled properly. how stressed out I am, but he Your husband may not be won’t listen. He would just seeing the work you do at tell me to “deal with it.” He home as REAL WORK, and is uncaring and abrupt, and

Dear George,

therefore, can think you have no reason to complain of fatigue, etc. He goes off to bed, with the thinking that he has had a hard day at work and deserves his rest, not understanding that you are still on the job and need some relief as well.

I recommend strongly that you two get some much needed counselling on parenting and how to share the work load at home, in order to prevent total burnt out and unnecessary stress, and how to still find time for each other in between tasks.

Do not resort to your own remedies until you have spoken to someone about your situation. Let whatever action you take be of benefit to everyone.

George

I want some space Dear George, AM I WRONG to ask my boyfriend for time alone sometimes?

Since we have been together (6 years), we have gone everywhere together and done everything together. I have not had one single moment for myself, and I keep telling him that I need some time alone. However, he interprets that as me wanting to go off and do something with someone else.

From the time I leave home in the morning, he calls my cell and would ask me where I am. He forced me to lie to him so many times when he does that. I hate it! I cannot even go to the country alone to visit my relatives. If he cannot go, I have to wait until he is available. We have gone to other Caribbean countries for vacation, and it has to be with him.

George, don’t get me wrong; I love him and I love to be with him, but right now I feel crowded and I need some time alone.

Am I wrong for asking for that? Am I being unreasonable, as he puts it? To be honest, I will walk away from this relationship if he continues to be so controlling. He does not know that yet.

Frustrated Dear Frustrated, It is good to spend time together and do things together, but one has to be careful not to use this as an excuse for stalking and possessiveness. There is absolutely nothing wrong with any of you taking some time alone or asking for it as per necessary.

Based on the description of the events in your relationship, it can be concluded that your boyfriend is showing insecurity as far as you are concerned, and has resorted to stalking. You need to address this sooner than later. You cannot and should not allow this man to take over your life or to consume you to the point where you no longer have your own identity. He has to respect you as an individual, and at the same time, learn how to enjoy your company without crowding you to the point where you begin to feel claustrophobic. This action or tendency can stifle the relationship and bring it to a slow and painful death.

Talk with him again about these concerns, and explain to him why he should step back and allow you some breathing space.

If he chooses to ignore your concerns, then you may have to take as much space as you see necessary in the interest of your own existence and happiness.

George

Who is the father? approached all denied having anything to do I AM 7 months pregnant, with my pregnancy. Six of them are married and but I am not sure who’s do not want their wives the baby’s father. It to know of their could be for any of the involvement with me. nine or ten men I have I feel abandoned, and had sex with. The one I am most certain about is I am going to expose every one of them. I a church minister, and intend to tell their wives he is the one giving me that the child I am the most worries. He is carrying could be theirs, threatening that if I bring the child, it will be and when the child is hell between us. I do not born and I have proven who the father is, I will know how he wants me publicly announce it and to get rid of a 7 months let the chips fall where baby! He is saying that he cannot afford for this they may. How could men be so wicked and fiasco to affect the church he is in charge of, selfish? and also his wife and Let Down, family.

He even suggested that I put the pregnancy Dear Let Dowm, on my boyfriend’s It is always a good account. I cannot do that thing to ensure that the as my boyfriend is out sailing, and the numbers man you are involved won’t add up if I say the with sexually can afford to, and is willing to, own baby is his. up to his responsibilities I feel very when called upon. disappointed that this You took the decision man would not even to expose yourself to men want to take a second who were just out for look at me now that I some ‘fun’ , and who could be carrying his cannot afford to have child. The other men I

Dear George,

their names called as potential fathers of a child outside of their marriage or relationships.

Seeing that it is your intention to give birth to this child, you need to focus on remaining healthy, and after birth, get a paternity test to determine who the father is. The family court is there to assist in getting the biological father to financially support his child. You can reach out to members of your family circle for emotional and psychological support. If that is not forthcoming from them, there is always the Marion House where you can go to for that kind of support.

Use this experience to help you make better choices in the future, especially as it relates to sexual partners. The one you choose should at least be available and responsible in the first instance.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't let your health suffer because of abuse. Don't give in too quickly. Don't be too quick to judge your position or surroundings at work. You can develop your creative talents if you take the time to practice your art.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Be ready to explain your actions.

Sudden romantic connections may be short lived. Delays are evident. Your communication skills are at an all-time high.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Don't let others bait you into arguments. Get out and, about.

Daydreaming will be your downfall.

Group endeavors will provide you with entertainment.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Question your mate if you must. Travel should be on your mind. It will be important that you have your priorities straight. Take the time to help old friends or relatives who have had a stroke of bad luck.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Do not get into uncertain financial deals. Go on business trips if at all possible. Business trips might prove unproductive. You may feel that someone at work is holding you back.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don't hesitate to come right out and ask for the pertinent information. You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. Talk to someone you trust if you need advice about broaching the subject. Don't let the moods of those you live with get you down.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Set aside any decisions regarding your personal life this week. Groups you belong to will not only enjoy your company, but they will also share your interests. Don't jump too quickly if someone tries to make you join in on their crusade. Your personal life is going through a state of confusion.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Get out and experience the spice of life.

Don't overspend on children or on large purchases. Get involved in groups that can offer intellectual stimulation.

Difficulties with your mate may lead to estrangement.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are evident. You can make some favorable changes to your looks. Don't force your opinions on friends or relatives unless you are prepared to lose their favor.

Think about your budget before booking a trip.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Patience will be of utmost importance.

Your ability to talk circles around your colleagues will help you forge ahead in the workforce. Don't be too eager to dismiss someone who works under you.

Good friends will give you honest answers.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You should not get involved in joint ventures. Your mate may not be too sure about your intentions. Keep busy and let them fume while you're not around.

Investments may be misrepresented this week.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Get busy trying to make more money.

Friends may not understand your situation. Go out with friends. Go with the flow and don't let the unsettled atmosphere get on your nerves.

ACROSS

51. They’re often yoked 1. Supplies 53. She (Fr.) weapons 54. Lobster 5. Govt. agents limb 9. Vague 57. Basketball schedule info filler (abbr.)

59. Duration 12.

63. Popsicle Straphanger’s flavour hope 64. Look after 13. Cabinet (2 wds.)

14. Flapjack 66. “David chain (abbr.)

Cooperfield” 15. Less than character twice 67.

16. Choir Accustomed accompaniment (to) 17. Zero 68. Cousteau’s 18. Trial balloon milieu 20. Man __ 69. Sad news, mission (2 item, for wds.) short 21. Seeks legal 70. Nightclub recourse feature 22. Director 71. Sparks and Fritz Beatty 24. Upon 72. Shreds 26. Not as distant DOWN 28. Type of skirt (hyph.)

1. Starting 31. Zeus or with (wds.)

Apollo 2. Russo of 32. Heated gym “Outbreak” location 3. Nutmeglike 35. Ringo’s gear spice 37. Powerful 4. Cry for impulse Stanley 39. G-man’s org.

Kowalski 40. Estrada of 5. Beaver coat “CHiPs” 6. Latin 41. Wee “therefore” 43. Abstains 7. Actress Rigg from food 8. Musical 46. Pig’s home work 47. Bower of 9. Olden “you” roses, e.g.

10. Rib, for one 49. Exits 11. Primates

13. Eye part 14. Stimulate 19. Dumbo’s features 23. Surly 25. Antiquated 26. Actress Shearer 27. Actor Buchanan 29. Doctor’s attendant 30. Gives voice to 31. Gloomy __ 33. Cagers’ org.

34. Walkway for a bride 36. Firmament 38. Jostled 42. Salty smoked fish 44. Rat out (2 wds.)

45. Discount event 48. Purpose 50. Seller 52. Sister’s daughter 54. Group 55. Kudrow or Simpson 56. U.S. citizen (abbr.)

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 27.

58. Swamp grass 60. Asian desert 61. Short journey 62. Caps 65. Professors’ aides (abbr.)

V Scotiabank, WICB sign new five-year contract 28. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

CEO of the WICB Michael Muirhead (second from left) and Scotiabank’s Director of Marketing for the English Caribbean Heather Goldson (second from right) sign the new contract as WICB President Dave Cameron (far left) and President of the Jamaica Cricket Association Linval Wright (right) look on.

SCOTIABANK AND THE WEST INDIES CRICKET BOARD (WICB) this week signed a new five-year contract to officially return the Bank as the exclusive sponsor of the Kiddy Cricket Programme and the Official Bank of West Indies Cricket.

The contract was inked at the headquarters of the Jamaica Cricket Association by Dave Cameron, the new President of the WICB; Michael Muirhead,

Chief Executive Officer of the WICB, and Scotiabank Director of Marketing for the English Caribbean, Heather Goldson. The new agreement will see the Bank almost doubling its investment in the Kiddy Cricket and is the longest sponsorship contract that the Bank has signed with the WICB in its 14 year history of supporting the game.

Scotiabank’s renewed investment in the programme comes as a clear commitment to the development of West Indies Cricket and a vote of confidence in the future of the game. “We have seen significant progress in the Kiddy Cricket programme over the last 14-years as title sponsors.

We have reached over 750,000 children since inception, and have had the satisfaction of seeing Kiddy Cricketers rising to the pinnacle of the game as national and as West Indian players. We are fully committed to continuing to play our part in growing the sport, and building that next generation of cricket greats,” explained Heather Goldson, Regional Director of Marketing for the English Caribbean.

Commenting on the renewal of the contract with Scotiabank, WICB’s President and CEO, Michael Muirhead said, “WICB holds the Kiddy Cricket programme as a high priority initiative as it is the base of the cricket development path in the region and we are very pleased to renew this sponsorship with our long standing sponsor and partner

Scotiabank.”

The new contract will allow the Board to execute an expanded technical programme aimed at teaching foundation cricketing skills to the over 150,000 students who are currently enrolled. As part of the expanded programme, Scotiabank will be funding the provision of close to 10,000 Kiddy Cricket kits including bats, balls, and stumps to schools across the region.

Dave Cameron looks on as WICB President Michael Muirhead signs a Kiddy Cricket Bat to mark the new contract signing. Also observing the proceedings is Linval Wright.

Interns on the job

(L-R): Kurtisha Baptiste, Terika Alexander, Sienna Wales, and Terricia Graham (Interns placed at Invest SVG’s office) and Tedra Kirby, Communications Officer/Invest SVG & Programme Coordinator.

TEN STUDENTS began internships on Monday 15th July, 2013.

The ten were selected for participation in the 2013, third edition of the Invest SVG Secondary School Summer Internship Programme (SSSIP).

Those selected were: Terricia Graham, Malikha Providence, & Crystal Webb of St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown; Sienna Wales & Kurtisha Baptiste of Bethel High School; Terika Alexander, Rhea Cain & Brittney Lewis of Girls’ High School, and Mikisha David & Devonti Boyea of Emmanuel High School.

The interns have been assigned to various business entities here, namely: IKTV, the General Employees’ Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU), St. Vincent & the Grenadines Broadcasting Corporation (SVGBC), the Financial Services Authority, Baptiste & Co Law Firm, and host Invest SVG. Interns are expected to spend a month ‘on the job’, at the end of which

they will (each) give a live presentation to an invited audience. It is anticipated that the period will also afford the interns an understanding of the realities of the local working environment.

Communications Officer of Invest SVG and programme coordinator, Tedra Kirby, expressed delight in the number of applications the agency received this year, which reflects the level of interest the programme managed to generate.

She noted, however, that there was a very poor showing from teenage males this year.

Of the fifty-eight applications received, only thirteen were submitted by males, which resulted in only one (male) being selected in the final ten.

Kirby also disclosed that the applications submitted by teen males were generally “scrappy”, untidy and poorly presented, and linked this to the wider issue of females outperforming males academically in St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 29.

News

NINE for Miss Heritage Pageant NINE SECONDARY SCHOOL girls will vie for this year’s Scotia Bank National Secondary School Miss Heritage title.

The 2013 edition of the Miss Heritage Pageant is scheduled for October 19, and the girls, already in training are: Mililione Edwards, West St. George Secondary; Lateefa Noel, Girls’ High chool; Nia Grecia, Intermediate High School; Sharikah Rodney; St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown; Crystellyn Browne, Bequia Community High; Terreka Nero of the Buccament Bay Secondary School; Waynenesha Sandy of St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua; Pallavi Browne, Thomas Saunders Secondary; and Kia May, Sandy Bay

Secondary.

The girls, ranging in ages from 14 to 15 years, are fourth and fifth form students who will be balancing their studies and all that the pageant requires, in the coming months.

The contestants got their first taste of public scrutiny last Saturday, July 13, when they were introduced to the media, and put through their first drill of questions.

Lateefa Noel of the Girls’ High School, the host school, summed up the sentiments of the contestants by assuring that they (contestants) “will be able to handle the work load with careful time management,” and that they were all looking forward to upholding the title of ‘role model’ for

Contestants in the 2103 Scotiabank National Secondary School Miss Heritage Pageant. youngsters in SVG. opportunity of Saturday’s a National Heritage If previously staged introduction of the girls, Parade will be staged National Miss Heritage to assure the public that again this year. This is Pageants are any indication of what Vincentians can expect, they’re in for a treat.

The Pageant has, from all indications, built up quite a following, and many consider it a ‘mustsee’ event on the calendar of cultural activities in SVG. The National Heritage Committee took the

Continuing Taiwan assistance for SVG THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE of St. Vincent and the Grenadines continue to be a recipient of the generosity of the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

The most recent demonstration of this came on July 12, when Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, received from St Vincent and the Grenadines continue to reap the Taiwanese benefits of an ongoing relationship with the Republic Ambassador to SVG, of China (Taiwan), represented locally by Ambassador H.E. Weber Shih, H.E. Weber Shih, who is pictured above with Prime cheques in a total Minister Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves. amount of US$ 1,041,458.97 furniture for the Treasury and Inland (EC$2,799,650).

Revenue Department, Civil Registry, The amount, a grant, represents and Service Commissions Department, part of the grant for 2012 Civic is expected to take care of the Development Program and other remaining US$223,197.68. agreed projects.

Taiwan’s assistance comes with the According to a release from the expectation that the government Taiwanese embassy, US$818,261.29 departments benefiting from its will go towards the Colonaire Bridge generosity would be better equipped to project, the Calliaqua Town Hall deliver quality services to the public, project, South Rivers Sports Field and that local communities would project and Customs Office IT benefit from the physical infraEquipment project. structural work it supports.

Procuring IT equipment and office

expected to be held on October 15. (KC)

30. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Paul’s Avenue, P.O. Box 592, Kingstown Tel: 456-1821 Fax: 457-2821 E-mail: metrocint@vincysurf.com Website: www.metrocintsvg.com

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 31.

SVG U23 Netballers: Second most successful in OECS sports ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES MAINTAINED THEIR STATUS as the second most successful team in OECS sports, after romping to their fourteenth OECS Under 23 Netball title in Antiguia, last weekend.

The Vincentians who won the tournament for a fourteenth time, steamrolled all comers in retaining the title they won in 2012. .

Their title count is surpassed only by the St. Lucia men’s volleyball team which won the OECS title sixteen times overall.

The St. Lucians had in fact won the title for nine consecutive years, and came close to losing to SVG here in 1999, but were able to overcome a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2 following a rain interruption.

SVG, which won the OECS Under 23 title for the first four years of competition, were never seriously threatened in the 2013 edition. They mauled Montserrat 101-3 in one of the most lopsided results in the tournament’s 22-

year history. Overall, SVG put away a total of 318 goals during the tournament, while they allowed 47 in the process.

SVG’s goal-shoot, Mary Ann Frederick, who converted 91 goals in the mauling of Montserrat, was voted the tournament’s MVP and the top goal-shoot. The six -footer, who is on a basketball scholarship at the Nebraska -based Mc Cook Community College, USA, also won the shooting competition. (See accompanying story on this page.)

Former national captain Skiddy Francis —Crick, who piloted SVG to their first four titles, said that SVG was always going to be a tough team to beat.

“It was more or less the same team which won in 2012, so I knew they were going to repeat,” she told THE VINCENTIAN. She believes that 2014 may be a more challenging year, since four of the current team members, Bownie Allicott, Roshel Franklyn, Shellista Davis and Shannique Deshong , will not

be returning.

Francis-Crick, vicecaptain for three years under Dellarice Duncan before taking over in her final year at that level, believes that SVG is slightly ahead of the other teams in the age tournaments, such as Under -23, Under- 16 and Windward Islands Schools games, mainly because there are good schools and village tournaments.

She points to players such as Saska Diamond, Gisehell Peters, Leanna Lewis and Gailene Gordon, who have all played at Under-16, Under-23 and senior levels with distinction.

“That batch of girls played together a lot under Miss B (Gloria Ballantyne MBE), and they understood the game well,” she said.

SVG’s next outing on the netball court will be in the Windward Islands Secondary Schools Games, and FrancisCrick is confident that the team will excel.

Above: The victorious 2013 U-23 national netball team.

Left: Skiddy Francis-Crick, former national netball captain, points to good schools and village tournaments as being responsible for producing outstanding age group national teams.

Frederick dominates ECCB/OECS Netball “I FEEL GREAT.. DIDN’T EXPECT it, but I feel real great and proud of myself,” said a smiling goal-shoot Marry-Ann Frederick on her return from the 23rd Edition of the ECCB/OECS under-23 Netball tournament which concluded in Antigua last week.

Frederick had much to smile about. She copped the MVP award for SVG, the Player of the Tournament

award and the title of shooting champion at the Tournament.

“I will credit my performance to the last nine months of basketball overseas where I am presently on a basketball scholarship at the Monckco Community College in the United States,” the 6foot 3 inches goal shooter further stated.

She was also commendable of her team mates, who she said made her feel

comfortable, and inspired her to perform well.

Looking ahead, Frederick vowed to continue to do her best in both netball and basketball, and to excel in her academics.

Frederick led the scoring for SVG in the final of the Tournament, a final that saw her scoring 35 of her team’s 39 points to St. Kitts’ 29. Her 35 points pushed her to a winning 254 goals from 291 attempts.

The victory propelled SVG to their 14th title at the OECS Under-23 level. St, Kitts finished second, with Grenada third.

Ruth-Ann Williams, captain of the victorious SVG team, commended the team for winning the title, and cited the hard work as paying off.

“We knew it was going to be challenging, but we were reminded by coach Harry that the team had a lot to lose but also a lot more to gain, and once we The SVG team - overall champion for the 14th time and best played hard we would defending team – were greeted by Minister of Sport, Cecil Mc Kie, win,” Williams said. on their return home.

Godfrey Harry, coach of the team, was in high praise of the team, for the way they played and this title.

“The team was able to persevere under challenging conditions and showed great character,” Harry pointed out’.

He also gave praise to the local coaching staff which worked with the team before they departed for the Tournament.

As far as future Under-23 tournaments are concerned, Harry recommends that “more time be given between matches …. attention be paid to improving the quality of umpiring,” among other things.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Above: Mary-Ann Fredericks. - MVP for SVG, Player of the Tournament and shooting champion.

Right: Ruth-Ann Williams, captain of the victorious SVG team.

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32. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Bequia basketball bounces off

THE Vita Malta Bequia Basketball 15th Annual Championships opened on Sunday, July 14th, at the Clive Tannis Hard Court in Bequia.

Fifteen teams are registered in 3 divisions in the tournament which runs until September 1st. Matches will be played four days per week at the Clive Tannis Hard Court.

Addressing the opening ceremony, which also included a parade of teams, Sabrina Mitchell, president of the Bequia Basketball Association and secretary general of

the Caribbean Basketball Confederation, she congratulated the basketball fraternity in Bequia - players, referees, coaches, sponsors, and patrons on the success of fifteen years of organized basketball in Bequia.

She also congratulated Bequia Referee Michael Peniston on his successful attainment of his International FIBA Referee licence, joining Shem Ollivierre as the two lone FIBA qualified referees in SVG! She informed that two other referees in Bequia

Teams on parade at the opening of the 2013 Bequia Basketball Championships. are looking to take the international exam later on in the year, as the Association continues its efforts to develop a professional cadre of Basketball Referees.

Ms. Mitchell also showered thanks on the St. Vincent Brewery and Shafia London and Courts Ltd for their sponsorship of this year’s competition, as well as the Frangipani Hotel, Vintages Bequia, and the many Bequia business houses that support the

tournament financially every year.

Two games were played on Sunday night.

Second Division defending champions, Wizards, defeated Blazing Heat 81 to 44.

Leading the way for Wizards was Orando Blugh with 18 points, 20 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks. For the Blazing Heat, Mark Browne contributed 12 points, 2 assists and four steals to the losing effort.

In the feature

exhibition game of the evening, the Bequia AllStars Basketball Club hosted a visiting team from Carriacou, Grenada, defeating them by a whopping 42 points, with a final score of 79 to 37. Leading scorer for Bequia was shooting guard Keithroy Lavia with 13 points, and 3 assists, while Kerry Alexis of Carriacou contributed 10 points to his team effort.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Eight head for Squash Championships EIGHT local Junior Squash players are expected to leave the state on July 21, for Trinidad and Tobago, where they form part of an OECS contingent for participation in the Caribbean Championships.

They will form part of an OECS contingent.

The eight are Eshwan Adams, Jason Doyle, Geronimo Ross, Kai Bentick, Gianna Miller-Alexander, Deiriai Myers, Thandi Myers and Giovanna Miller-Alexander.

Some of those comprising the OECS were in local competition in the recently concluded, July 13, inaugural Central Medical

Junior Squash Open Tournament staged at the National Squash Center, Paul’s Avenue.

In that tournament, Jason Doyle and Eshwan Adams emerged first and third respectively in the BoysA category, The eight local Juniors who will participate as part of an OECS team in the while Geronimo Caribbean Championships.

Ross took the BoysB grouping. in the GirlsA category, with Manager/Coach, and Kevin Gianna Miller-Alexander, Giovanna Miller-Alexander Hannaway as Assistant Coach.

Deiriai Myers and Thandi taking the GirlsB group.

Myers, in that order, were tops James Bentick will travel as I.B.A.ALLEN

IT-DAT holds summer camp NATIONAL Club Champions, IT-DAT Track and Field Academy, is into hosting a 6-week Summer Camp.

The camp began on Monday 15 July, at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex.

The Camp targets young people between the ages of 10 and 20 years, who are drawn primarily from the ITDAT Academy and others by invitation.

Participants will be exposed to the principles of training, with emphasis on sprinting, hurdles and the lateral

jumps. Some training sessions will be held on the Gorse beach, considered the nation’s longest beach, on the east coast of mainland St. Vincent.

Coaching/training sessions are being conducted by IAAF coaches, Jamaican Jenice Daley and IT-DAT’s Mike Ollivierre.

In addition, participants will be addressed by motivational speakers on social issues affecting young people, and will have an opportunity to hike to La Soufriere

volcano.

The Camp concludes on August 23 with a mini-meet, followed by a concert and awards ceremony.

IT-DAT Track and Field Academy was launched on June 14, 2012. It aims to promote development of Track and Field in SVG, by identifying talent, providing professional coaching, and seeking educational opportunities, towards creating an environment that can consistently produce professional athletes.

Mike Ollivierre will also make his expertise available to the Camp participants.

Jenice Daley, IAAF Coach, serves as one of the coaches at the IT-DAT camp.

Alumbrera

Sweepers swept aside THE MUSTIQUE CRICKET LEAGUE 20/20 Championship continued last Sunday with one match, featuring Salanga Tamahawks and Alumbrera Sweepers.

Salanga took first knock and registered a commendable 172 for 8 in their 20 overs.

Shem Browne led the way with a swashbuckling 82 and Oneil Thomas contributed 46.

For Alumbrera Sweepers, Kenuth Peters bowled his allotted 4 overs and took 3 wickets for 16 runs. Shawn Lavia put down 3 overs that cost him 27 runs but he snared 4 Tamahawks wickets.

Alumbrera Sweepers never seemed to be in the reckoning and spectators must have been relieved when they closed at 99 all out, with a top score of 25 coming from Roy Baptiste.

A combination of ‘Brownes’ accounted for 5 Alumbrera Sweepers: Razine taking 2 for 19 in 3 overs and Shem 3 wickets for 11 runs in 3 overs.

Shem Browne was uncontested as Man of the Match, his all round performance, 82 runs and 3 wickets, setting him apart.

Matches continue this weekend as follows: Saturday 20th July - Milsom Construction vs Pink House Tags; Sunday 21st July - Rock Masters vs Salanga Tamahawks.

(Contributed by Adesha Peters)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 33.

Sports

Raising eyebrows A FEELING of disbelief has overtaken most Jamaicans as well as fans of that athletics-crazed nation. Everyone will be following the developments surrounding the positive drug tests that have implicated at least two Jamaican athletes.

Jamaica has been shattered. For some outside that Caribbean island, the fact that Jamaicans have been embroiled in the episode serves as a platform to launch an attack on all Jamaican athletes.

Even though world record holder Usain Bolt has not been involved in the current scenario, the issue that his compatriots have been caught in the dragnet will be reason for them to lump all Jamaican athletes, for that matter the entire country, into the smoldering pot.

Athletes are bound by the efforts of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Vincentian athletes are similarly obliged to comply with any requests that WADA makes.

Unfortunately, or coincidentally, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has not set the world aflame with the performances of our athletes. Still, we have to tread cautiously and make sure that we operate within the rules.

Athletes find themselves under severe scrutiny.

They are prone to the machinations of various forces, and sometimes, whether consciously or not, the athletes find themselves in one predicament or the other.

One can’t claim ignorance as an excuse., even when there are instances of athletes ingesting or coming into contact with a banned substance in completely innocent circumstances.

The burden is placed on athletes, and they will have to go to extra lengths to be certain that their actions can stand up to any tests, whenever they occur.

There is no doubt that some officials are aware of the ways in which doping can be concealed.

Such actions tend to go on for a certain time, and like the saying goes, everything comes out in the wash.

There is a feeling that the fiasco that has recently unfolded in Italy has the making of an international matter.

The fact that doping scandals are nothing new will not reduce the impact that this issue can have on the Caribbean. This area is never far away from any spotlight, be in on the field of play or not.

Politicians do not detach themselves from any events that take place around them. They are the centre of every episode.

In the case of Jamaica, anything affecting sports transcends political boundaries, as was brought out in the current situation.

There is a similar effect throughout the region.

That was evident at the last Olympic Games, and whereas Jamaica was the leading light, even as far as the world was concerned, there was joy and a sense of pride when anyone within the Caricom fold mounted the medal podium.

Jamaica’s medal haul triggered alarm bells. It will not be surprising that efforts to neutralise or indeed minimise the effect on these performances have intensified.

That must be more reason for everyone involved to be more cautious and ensure that they leave nothing to chance.

If athletes, associations or anyone is unaware of any potential hazard, they must be naïve.

There is every possibility that this current affair may be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. It could be the opener for a can of worms, or still, a hammer that smashes a Pandora’s Box.

Death deals cricket painful blows

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT THE RECENT death of cricket statistician/scorer, Thaddeus ‘Thaddy’ Seymour, has brought to the fore the number of individuals close to the game of cricket who have gone to the ‘Great Beyond’ over the last few years.

Seymour’s death, which reports said occurred following a stroke, is the third scorer/statistician who departed this life in unexpected circumstances.

Reports say that both Hugh Drakes and Godfrey ‘Bobby’ Fraser, who formed an efficient team for years for 705 and later NBC Radio, succumbed to heart attacks after being fairly upbeat just days before. Fraser, despite Frank O. being a diabetic, was seen at the Victoria Park to witness the carnival celebrations just days prior to his passing.

The two men of figures had been preceded and followed to meet “their maker”, by many administrators and past players.

Former Windward Islands and England allrounder Neil Williams died in 2006 at the age of 43 after suffering a stroke and slipping into unconsciousness, from which he never recovered. But seventeen years prior to this, Wilf Slack, who like Williams played most of his cricket in England, collapsed and died in the Gambia while on tour there.

Both of these players had returned to the Caribbean to represent the Windward Islands in the regional first class tournament.

In between the passing of Williams and Slack, Alfie Roberts, SVG’s and the Windwards’ first test cricketer, died in 1996 in Montreal, Canada, at the age of 58. And national allrounder and footballer, Dougie Cambridge, died in 2005 at the age of 64 from what reports say was a heart attack.

Death’s hands also grabbed a number of top administrators during the years, with Dr. Gideon Cordice, who was president of the local cricket association for a record 25 years, pulling stumps, along with Carl Glasgow who played both cricket and football for SVG, and that feared fast

Carl Glasgow

Mason bowler Frank Odel Mason who also represented SVG at a number of disciplines. He also served as president of the SVG Cricket association and president of the Umpires Association for a number of years.

And almost three years ago, Frankie Thomas, who like Glasgow not only played and managed teams but also did work in the commentators box, also departed this life.

Thomas died at the age of 86 following what reports say was a mishap at his home. A Barbadian by birth he is said to have been instrumental in the coming to being of the Arnos Vale Playing Field. He is the only one who has departed this life to have had anything named in his honour the Frank G Thomas Pavilion at the said Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Dr. Gideon Cordice And even while taking a respite from players and administrators, death was still busy in making off with Cauldric “Peck” Fergus, a groundsman at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, a few months prior to Seymour’s death.

SVG Rugby into St Lucia 10 A 12-member men’s Rugby team will represent this country in the 2013 St Lucia Carnival 10’s Tournament this weekend.

The Tournament, postponed from last weekend, will be held the Vigie Sports Complex from Saturday 20th to the 22nd.

SVG, winners of the Tournament on two occasions, will do battle against a Barbados team and one from the host country.

Anthony Joseph will lead the SVG team which includes Andrew Phillips, Recardo Dallaway, Justin Tittle, Justin Joyles, Joel Stowe, Kimran Barnum, Delroy Diamond, Kemi Francois, Ronald James, Godfrey Matthews and Leonard Matthews.

Guy Hadley is the team’s manager and Phillip Alvis the coach.

I.B.A.LLEN

34. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 19, 2013. 35.

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TOP COP CALLS FOR

TOGETHERNESS VINCENTIAN that he intends to continue working in the same vein NEWLY appointed Acting as the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Commissioner, to foster a Michael Charles, has closer relationship called on Vincentians to between the police and work hand in hand with the public. the police to make St. “I see myself not as a Vincent and the taskmaster, but as an Grenadines a better place. individual that will work Charles took up duties hard with the entire as Acting COP on police force and citizens Tuesday 16th July, until as a whole. further notice, after COP “Each day I come to Keith Miller proceeded work, I come to work on pre-retirement leave with humility and a will the same day. to learn. In my opinion, Charles told THE in this way, things can Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Acting Commissioner of Police, Michael Charles (left) was out on duty during the Carnival period.

be done effectively and efficiently,” the top COP said.

Charles joined the constabulary in 1981, worked in several departments including Beat and Patrol, Special Services Unit (SSU) and the Drug Squad. He was attached to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ Security Detail from 2001 to 2005, before returning as head of the Drug Squad. He then headed the Special Branch, SSU and was Commandante at the Police Training School, all at the same time.

During his tenure, Charles pursued several courses abroad in police duty subjects and the military field.

At the time of his recent appointment, he held the post of Assistant Commissioner, in charge of operations. He acted as Deputy Commissioner, while Deputy COP Reynold Hadaway was on study leave, and Commissioner while Miller was on leave from December 2012 to January 2013.

Hadaway is currently on vacation.

However, it is not all work and no fun for the police officer of 32 years.

Charles is a versatile calypsonian who sings under the sobriquet

Acting Commissioner of Police, Michael Charles, tending to some paper work, all in a day’s work for a Commissioner.

Keith Miller proceeded on pre-retirement leave on Tuesday 16th July.

‘Crocus’. He is also a renowned Karaoke singer, and made the finals of the recently concluded Digicel Singing With The Stars Karaoke Island Tour.

His is a keen sportsman, and is known to have a wonderful relationship with the public.

He is grateful to the late former Superintendents of Police Grafton Bascombe and Leroy Latchman, as well as retired superintendent Rozendal ‘Bouncer’ Francis and former Station Sergeant Noel ‘Red John’ John, all of whom he said, moulded him to where he is today.

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

Acting COP thanks calypso composer NEWLY appointed Acting Commissioner of Police, Michael Charles, has expressed gratitude to popular Vincentian calypso composer, Winston ‘Chief’ Davis, for encouraging him to join the local constabulary.

Charles told THE VINCENTIAN that he didn’t know what Davis saw in him, but he took Davis’ advice and joined the police force in 1981.

Charles, a product of the Green Hill community, was at the time a member of the Green Hill cricket club, which Davis captained.

“When I joined the force in 1981, my intention was to get enough money to go to Trinidad and Tobago to meet some of my friends who had left Green Hill and moved to Trinidad after the 1979 eruption of the La Soufriere volcano.

“Apparently I have not made enough money yet because I am still here,” Charles said with a trademark broad smile.

Charles took up duties as Acting COP, until further notice, on Tuesday 16th July, after COP Keith Miller proceeded on pre-retirement leave the same day.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.