vinpages-_15-03-13

V

20. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

In the wrong camp Dear George,

Hoping it is not a dream Dear George,

OpX

THANK YOU for the advice you gave me late last year; I ended up dumping the guy I had, and found me a man who has everything I was looking for. I am so happy now! He is the first man to ever give me a full body massage and bring me flowers. I feel as though I am in a dream, and I pray that I would not wake up one day to find out that none of this is true.

Dear OpX, Congratulations on finding someone who has contributed to your happiness. Some stories do have fairy-tale endings, and it appears like yours is one of them.

Give it a chance and until you see otherwise.

You can safely say you have found your match.

George

MY BOYFRIEND finally decided to introduce me to his parents after dating for 8 months. I had asked him to take me to them before now, but he was reluctant, saying it was not the right time. I was so shocked when his mother said to him in my presence that she thought he would have chosen someone with a lighter complexion. His reply to her was that his genes were too strong for us to have dark-skinned children.

For the whole time I was there, she just talked about how well off they were; how she hoped I was not in the relationship for her son’s money. My boyfriend never once spoke in my defence, and allowed his

mother to humiliate me.

I told him how upset and hurt I was by his mother’s comments and his refusal to speak in my interest, and all he said was his mother never said anything that was not true, and that I should not take them to make an issue.

I am not sure I am in the right camp here.

Second thoughts Dear Second thoughts, Be satisfied that this

visit gave you the opportunity to see things for what they are with your boyfriend and his parents. Your friend seemed very comfortable with the way his parents treated you, and saw no reason for any objection to the ‘forward behaviour’ of his mother.

Implications were made of you being a gold digger and also being the ‘wrong’ mix for their ‘colour scheme’. You cannot afford to gloss over these very important issues. It may

be less stressful to find someone who accepts you for who you are, and certainly, your boyfriend’s failure to rebut his mother’s thinking of you being a gold digger could very well mean that he also has his doubts.

You may not only be in the wrong camp but hitched to the wrong camping partner. Keep your options open.

George

Get a new partner Dear George,

work.

My girlfriend is Trinidadian. We have been together for 2 years. It was not a smooth ride at all, and I must admit, we argued a lot.

Our latest argument was over a statement she made which she refused to take back. She said that Trinidadians are more intelligent and more superior than Vincentians. She said she knows that to be a fact, and used our relationship as her best example, trying to show how more advanced and superior she is than me, both in knowledge and skill. I argued that it is not about competing with each other, and that she had the wrong thinking which would ultimately lead to the demise of our relationship. She simply laughed me off.

I am not happy in this relationship but I have been trying to make it

Tired love Dear Tired love, I am sure your girlfriend’s views are not necessarily those of all Trinidadians. Here you have someone who has practically caused you 2 years of unhappiness, and has openly voiced her opinion as to what she thinks of you and your position or usefulness in the relationship. Yet, you are bent on prolonging the agony.

A good relationship gone bad may have hope of redemption ,but a bad relationship getting worse is not worth the effort. Find a partner who can value what you bring to the table.

There is a lot more satisfaction there, George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You can make money through your own creative efforts. Self-improvement could bring amazing results. You may want to get involved in financial investments presented to you. Just be yourself.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Make love, not war, and all will be fine.

Don't make unreasonable promises.

Avoid any erratic behavior or it could cause isolation at home. Your lover probably won't put up with your behavior.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You may find it impossible to get the rest you require. Travel should open doors that lead to exciting new adventures. Try to include friends and relatives in your activities. You will easily capture the interest of those you talk to.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Travel should be on your mind.

Opportunities for travel and communication are evident. Your ability to see other people's points of view will allow you to come to reasonable agreements.

Don't let your personal partner hold you back or slow you down.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your reputation will be affected.

Friends and relatives may be hard to take this week. You are best to work at home, clearing up overdue projects.

Don't be too quick to voice your opinion. Listen to others carefully.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Get involved in the activities of children.

They will teach you far more than you expect. You have a tendency to think that no one else will do things properly.

Most partner problems are a result of both people not living up to their promises. Make changes in your domestic scene.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) The key to feeling good about yourself will be to do something about it. You will be able to borrow money in order to invest. Stay away from social unpleasantness. Don't get depressed, get busy. You can accomplish a lot if you're willing to put in a little extra time.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Tempers will mount if you are too pushy at work. Be careful not to lead someone on if you truly have no interest. Don't get involved in idle chatter that will hurt your position. You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Plan to get out and do a bit of travel.

Look into some personal changes.

Your partner could also use some time alone with you. You can meet new and exciting friends who will provide mental stimulation.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Be careful that you aren't saddled with the responsibilities of others. Throw yourself into your profession. Don't forget that your budget is limited right now.

It's hard to stay mad if the object of the anger refuses to react.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Take the time to help those less fortunate. If you can mix business with pleasure much can be accomplished.

Don't say things that could be damaging later on. Cut loose. You need some rest.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You need to spend less time daydreaming and more time accomplishing. You may be somewhat emotional concerning a rather private matter. You can make changes to your home that will be pleasing to all concerned. You'll regret every word for some time to come.

ACROSS 1.Bigger_life 5. Eight, to Eduardo 9. Edge 13. Detroit product 14. TV Chef Deen 16. Hoax 17. Scared 19. Fail to use 20. Jerry’s cartoon companion 21. CIA predecessor 22. Takes an orphan 24. Colorful salamander 26. Type of modern power 29. Apollo 11 crew member 31. Mine tunnel 35. Town crier’s cry(2 wds.)

38. Engrave on metal 40. Squeezing snake 41. Author Leon (“Trinity”) 42. Trial and _ 44. Tenement area 45. Film studio with a lion mascot 46. Kind of muffin 47. Diner patrons 49. Sheriff’s group 51. _Heinz

Kerry 53. Tropical fruit 55. Actress Sedgwick 58. Chevy model 61. Compete 63. London of politics 65. Greedy 66. Trustworthy 70. Portrayal 71. Slither 72. Footnote abbr.

73. Leathermaking tools 74. Sunday service 75. Commotions 23. Chafing _ 25. Clashes 27. Actress 1.27th Gene __ President 28. Not fooled 2. One Great by Lake 30. Forest 3. One at __ creature (2 wds.)

32. Fit 4. Yule drink 33. Lucky 5. Makes a clover leaf selection count 6. “Julius __” 34.

They cover 7.Attila, e.g.

Highland 8.Bullring cheer heads 9. Jewelry box 35. Camel’s item feature 10. _roast 11. “What time 36. Therefore (Lat.) __?”

37. Intentions (2 wds) 12. NYC’s NL 39. Manitoba Indian team 43. Pro _ 15. Eden 44.

Collar stiffdweller ener 18. With great 46. Yogi,e.g passion 48. Made DOWN

queries 50. Garden shovels 52. Black birds 54. Pea holders 56. Jewish scholar 57. “It’s _ the Game” (2 wds)

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 21.

58. Actress Irene 59. Declare assuredly 60. Factory 62. Signs, as a contract 64. G-men 67. Slippery _ 68. Entertainer Zadora 69. Give help

V

22. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Young is CanouanÊs King of the Park

COLIN YOUNG IS THE FIRST EVER KITE-FLYING CHAMPION AND KING OF THE PARK OF CANOUAN. Young took the honour at the inaugural Karib Cable Kite-Flying Competition held in Canouan, Sunday, March 10, at the Canouan Recreational Centre.

The Canouan leg formed part of the 15th Annual Karib Cable Kite-Flying Competition, and got this year’s competition on the way.

Originally from Park Hill, but now resident in Canouan, Young won from a field of thirty competitors, with his home-made box kite, and took home two cases of Fruta box juices, compliments FACEY; Kiss Cakes gift pack and cake from Premier Distributor,;a trophy and a medal; and a TV set compliments Karib Cable.

“I told my friends when I heard Karib Cable was coming down here with their kite flying competition that I was going to win this. It was just a boast because I really didn’t know I would win, but being crowned king and knowing I am the first winner in Canouan, will go down in the history book,” said a

delighted Colin as he was crowned king at the Canouan Recreational Centre.

“I want to thank everyone at Karib Cable on behalf of the Canouan people, for bringing this event down here, and with God’s blessing, I am looking forward to represent Canouan in the final in Rabacca and to defend my crown next year,” he added. Other notable winners in the Competition were: Dellicia King in the under-10 category; Rockesha Young who won in the 11-15-year group; thirty-four-year-old Kyron Roberts in the 16-plus category and who was also adjudged the best flyer; Xavier Charles, 18 months, the youngest flyer,; and Philistine Walker for the most original kite.

Colin Young (centre) flanked by Maridonna Burgin Vance Garraway, Marketing Executive of Karib of CCA (left) and Desmond Veira, Karib Cable Cable, addressing the presentation ceremony at representative. the Canouan Recreational Centre, commended the people of Canouan for their participation, noting The 15th Annual Karib Cable Kite-Flying that “It was a pleasure to see boys and girls of all Competition moves to Bequia on Sunday, March 17, ages, and entire families taking part in this and climaxes in a grand final at Rabacca on March competition.”

24.

Anderson: Repeat winner with Digicel

Natasha Anderson hold the envelope containing her price winning cheque.

FOR THE SECOND TIME IN 2013, NATASHA ANDERSON has struck gold in one of Digicel’s Text to win promotions. The lucky lady is Digicel’s February Text to Win champion, and has, as a result, brought her winning tally to $7000 in cash, along with other prizes.

Her latest win saw her testing ‘LOVE’ to 7171 and winning herself a weekend for two at the Buccama Bay Resort and EC$2000 in cash.

Justin John, Marketing Executive at Digicel, who handed over Anderson’s prize on Wednesday, said that the lucky lady will also

get the opportunity to experience the famous wine cellar at Jack’s Bar, located on the resort.

“The wine cellar in Jack’s Bar is where the celebrities and sultans dine when they stay at the resort,” John said while thanking all the persons who participated in the

February Text to Win promotion. Anderson said that she was happy to have won for the second time. During the month of January, Anderson texted ‘SHOP’ to 7171, and as a result she won EC$5000 which had to be equally distributed by purchasing items from among five local

business houses of Anderson’s choosing.

This month, as part of Digicel’s 10th anniversary celebrations, the company will give away EC$10,000 cash in their March Text to Win promotions. To take part, subscribers must text ‘TEN’ to 7171. (KH)

V Netball looking forward with confidence

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 23.

Sports

sport.

The 2013 tournament will see 33 teams taking BUOYED BY THEIR LARGEST SPECTATOR TURNOUT FOR part in four divisions.

AN OPENING OF THE NATIONAL NETBALL tournament in In awards given out on the day, Best Dress Team many years, the SVG Netball Association will be looking went to Courts Maple and second place to Western to captivate the imagination of the public with new Union Mitres. Best Banner went to Vita Malt initiatives and new programmes.

Maple and second place to Bank of SVG Valley President of the Association, Dellarice Duncan, Netters. In the featured game, which was a replay said they will be moving to return the sport to a of the Firms and Industrial tournament final, NBC position among the top three sports in the country.

Radio beat RSVG Police 45 — 39.

Duncan told THE VINCENTIAN on Sunday that she was heartened by the attendance which was larger and included persons from all age groups.

‘We have seen a decrease in the spectator attendance, and this is a good sign. I am hoping that with our new partnership with LIME that things will be moving in a positive direction,” said a smiling Duncan. Speaking on the return of LIME to local netball, Duncan said it is the Association’s hope that the partnership will allow them to develop and spread the sport across the island.

“We are appreciative of the companies who have supported the game of netball over the years, and can say they have all made a wonderful contribution in taking the sport to another level. However, our focus now is on our partnership with LIME and the commitment and effort to enjoy positive spinoffs,” she said.

LIME returns as the major sponsor after being out for five years. The telecommunications company has indicated an interest in doing a number of things to develop the sport and the players and administrators.

This was highlighted by Duncan as she addressed the enthusiastic patrons at Sunday’s opening at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex. ‘LIME is offering to develop our girls holistically,” she said.

“They are extending their scholarship programme to our young netballers. Additionally, they are affording us the opportunity to attend a ‘Phenomenal Women’ seminar to be held here in April, and some of our girls will be part of the LIME Internet Summer Programme,” she added.

Duncan said that the partnership is one that the Association “truly appreciates” and would work tirelessly to achieve maximum benefit. The former national midcourt dynamo and national captain said that her executive will be putting together a fiveyear plan that will cover many areas, as they begin the process to put some life and energy back in the

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Action in the Dutch Lady Clinchers-ASCO TWO match played last Sunday.

In other matches played on Sunday, Dutch Lady Clinchers defeated ASCO TWO 29 — 13 in a Division THREE encounter; Barrouallie Sports Association defeated Prime Consulting Three J's Valley Strikers 54 - 38 in Division TWO.And on Monday, Everready Future Stars defeated Third Eye Security X-ceed 20 goals to 15 in Division THREE and Green Hill Sports Club went Under to Ayees Nice Radio Clinches 41 goals to 46 in a Division TWO showdown.

V

24. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Saints spanks lacklustre Radcliffe

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

GUARDIAN LIFE SAINTS showered fire and brimstone on the heads of LIME Radcliffe by beating them by 146 runs when action in the second round of matches in the national cricket programme continued at Arnos Vale TWO. The victory for Guardian Life Saints, who placed third in the 2012 season, was constructed by a near century by the classy Romel Currency and his younger sibling, Sunil Ambris, who hit a half century in both innings as well, and a ten-wicket match haul

by Ray Charles.

Currency, who has been effectively out of local cricket for a number of years, during which he pursued studies at the UWI Cave Hill, did make sporadic appearances for the longstanding Saints Cricket Club, who

was demoted to the First Division two years ago.

“I enjoyed batting on this pitch because the live grass gave it good bounce, allowing me to play through the line, and the bowlers to get good carry..…it’s no longer a dust wicket, it’s a good pitch,” he said about the Arnos Vale TWO pitch after his innings.

On Sunday, Currency, now on course to playing his first full season in sometime, made full capital of his fortune after being handed a number of chances. He hit 90 as his team set about gathering quick runs to force a declaration. He struck 10 sixes and four fours before being caught on the edge of the boundary, as his team reached 186-5. Ambris hit 52 adorned by eight fours and two sixes.

Offspinner Dyke Cato came in for a

Right: Romel Currency, seen leaving the field at Arnos Vale TWO, struck a chancy 90 to help his team, Saints, to victory.

Left: Ray Charles proved too good for the Radcliffe batsmen.

hiding to end with 3-73 off ten overs.

Set 243 for victory, LIME Radcliffe were left with a sour taste in their mouth after subsiding for 97, with Charles, 5-42, and Kentish Jacobs, 4-31,doing the damage.

On day one ,Guardian Life Saints were dismissed for 137 after losing their last seven wickets for 28 runs with Ambris hitting 52 with seven fours, and Rickford Walker 27.

Westrick Strough took 5-27 and Dean Browne 4-38.

LIME Radcliffe found the bowling of Charles, 5-33, and Romario Bibby, 534, too good and folded for 81 in 22 over,s conceding a lead of 56. Guardian Life Saints after that, never let go of the initiative, and easily won in the end by dismissing their opponents in 18 overs.

ASCO buckles under Police Two’s cross examination

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT RSVG POLICE TWO, on the back of a positive second innings batting display on a less than perfect pitch at the Sion Hill Playing Field, beat Carl Joseph Law Chambers ASCO by 79 runs in their Premier Division cricket match on the weekend.

The lawmen’s compelling case was fashioned by the evidence of Mc Clean Williams, Salvan Browne and Danson Andrews who all struck half centuries after their team had failed in questioning in their first time around.

Williams, who hit a top score of 67 with eight fours and one six, and Browne, 57 with six fours and one six, raised 130 for the first wicket after Police were faced with a deficit of 48.

Andrews, the former Victors ONE opening batsmen and new police recruit, added an even 50 with five fours and two

sixes, to help Police TWO declare on 250-7 in 49 overs on a pitch which saw a number of balls keeping low and others popping.

Set 203 for victory, Carl Joseph Law Chambers ASCO fell to pieces under the gun of Kenroy Martin, 4-47, falling for 123 in 31.2 overs.

Earlier, Police Rolando Wright, left arm TWO had won the McClean Williamas topspinner, held ASCO in toss and elected to scored for Plice TWO in their successful run chase. check. bat but were humbled for 81, with Rolando produced the relevant examination of left-arm Wright, swinging from spinner Wright, who the hips, top scoring with sections from their volumes to impact the ended with 6-42 in 12 22 with two sixes and overs. He stood at one two fours. Medium pacer crime scene.

They, however, badly time on 2-38 from eight Eric Morris took 4-17 bungled their approach overs. Oswald Soleyn, and left-arm spinner in what should have 36, Darren Greaves, 28, Andre Hunte 3-29. been their closing and Renrick Williams, ASCO then set about arguments. From their 24, made useful scores. compiling what should relatively convincing In the end, the Police have been an airtight position of 118-4, they TWO were allowed to case against the ragged law enforcement brigade. contradicted themselves enter irrefutable Despite losing their best to see five wickets fall at evidence and a sound the same score, to tumble closing argument to take batsman, Desroy to 118-9 under the the full points.

Maloney, without a run serious cross on the board, they

Weekend Football Round- Up FOLLOWING THEIR 3-1 victory over West Kingstown, on Thursday 7th, North Leeward continued their good form by defeating Buccament 3-nil at the Layou Playing Field, on Saturday, March 9, in the Hairoun Beer National Community Football League.

Kemel Bowens, Kurtland Williams and Olando Pierre were on the score sheet for North Leeward in Saturday’s match.

Also on Saturday, Calliaqua won by the default over Bequia at the Brighton Playing Field.

At Victoria Park on Sunday 10, Sion Hill beat East Kingstown 6-4 in a very interesting encounter.

Dorian Dallaway, Juma Gilkes and Fitz-Allan Bramble scored two goals each for Sion Hill.

Thaddeus Velox, Shin Boyea, Zenroy Lee and Ezra Alleyne scored for East Kingstown.

Atwin Bruce and Nasir Mc Burnette scored a goal each as South Leeward beat Layou 2-nil and West Kingstown upset defending champions Barrouallie,1-nil.Damon Mason scored for West Kingstown. Both matches were played last Sunday.

Georgetown defeated South East 2-nil at the Chili Playing Field in Georgetown. (KH)

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 25.

Sports

Keeping the plot THE TELECOMMUNICATION company LIME has pledged its commitment to the local netball Association, and President Dellarice Duncan has vowed to return the sports to its pedestal; but they might have missed the opportunity to begin the resurgence on a firmer footing.

Instead of the ‘fun’ game between the National Broadcasting Corporation and the Police outfits, a genuine competitive encounter ought to have been scheduled as the highlight of the opening.

LIME has promised to be part of all the competitions run by the Association. So the time would have come for the Industrial tournament to take centre stage.

The Under-23 outfit is the defending Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) champion. There was a time when, once that tournament was announced, it was a foregone conclusion as to who the winner would have been.

Our success rate has tapered off lately until last year.

Maybe netball enthusiasts have become tired of the Mitres/Maples clash. So the thought emerged to ride on the popularity of the Industrial tournament finalists.

NBC Radio emerged winners in what might be exciting Netball, but it will not go far in improving the sport here.

The Industrial Tournament is meant to provide workers at institutions with an opportunity to mingle outside the job, retain some fitness and help with operations at the workplace. Therefore, to use a match of that nature as the drawing card for the opening of a season signals that the Association has no confidence in the present torchbearers of the sport.

LIME will also be supporting the senior national tournament as well as Under-23 and Under-16 competitions. It proposes to avail its expertise to the Association so as to prop up all aspects of the game here.

The Association has to take advantage of the offer, and if it means shifting the focus to an area where it would redound to the benefit of the sport, that direction ought to have been taken.

The Association is sincere about their duties, and they will build on the platform they have inherited.

Focus is already on the 60th anniversary of the Caribbean Netball Association next year.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been a bulwark in the field over that period. Their record has been ruined over recent times, and the pride and prestige that this country carried has been declining.

The situation may be reflective of a broader societal problem. Whereas previously women maintained generally the moral fabric of the society, there is a creeping trend of recklessness by the female population.

While there are worries about the waning dominance of males in areas of traditional male dominance, and the appearance of more women in those areas, the reverse is on the horizon, in that many of the negative spheres of macho behaviour are being matched by their female counterparts.

The Netball Association has a task of ensuring that the sport resorts to its role of instilling some sense of decorum within our population.

But it is not a woman problem. The men have to shoulder their portion of the burden and establish some harmony in seeing that any threats to the development of a healthy community are erased.

Regional Cricket Round-up 4 Trinidad and Tobago batted first and scored 319; Denesh Ramdin hit 84, Darren Bravo 66, Lendl Simmons 51, and Imran Khan 44.

Bowling for Guyana, Veerasammy Permaul took 3 for 60; Paul Wintz had 2 for 50, and Ronsford Beaton 2 for 58.

The Guyanese responded with 195. Leon Johnson led their batting with 87 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul 42.

T & T’s lead bowler was Sunil Narine, who celebrated his elevation to the current world‘s top T/20 bowler. He bagged 6 for 40.

Trinidad and Tobago then rushed to 251 for 2 declared.

Mika Miller continues to be a Lendl Simmons cracked 69, winning spinning option for the Adrian Barath 56, Kieron Jamaicans.

Pollard 54 not out and Darren Bravo Windwards 48 not out. succumb to Set 376 to win, Jamaica’s Guyana fell for 330, spin duo to lose by 45 runs.

Shivnarine WINDWARDS Chanderpaul struck SUCCUMBED 108, Paul Wintz 50, to the guile of Devendra Bishoo the spin pair of 47 not out and Nikita Miller Ramnaresh Sarwan and Odean 42.

Brown, to go Sunil Narine under to Shane Shillingford tried to picked up 4 for 105, Jamaica by 91 keep the Windwards in with a Shannon Gabriel 3 runs at the chance against the Jamaicans. for 49 and Dwayne National Bravo 2 for 49, to Stadium in bowl the hosts to a hard fought Grenada. outright win, and their second in Needing 175 to win, the this year’s campaign.

Windwards fell for 83, within T & T now sits on 24 points three days, with Miller from 3 matches and Guyana capitalizing on some inept condemned to 7th on the seven Windwards’ batting, taking 7 for team table, with 6 points from 4 30 and Brown 3 for 17.

Tyrone Theophile’s 20 was the matches.

Windwards’ top score.

Jamaica batted first and made CCC stops the Leewards from behind 207. Nikita Miller hit 55 and Dave Bernard 52. Shane The Combined Campuses and Shillingford grabbed 4 for 74 and Colleges (CCC) came from behind Darren Sammy had figures of 3 to record their first maximum for 28.

They fared even worse a second points, after losing on first time around, closing at 97 all out, innings to the Leewards.

The CCC made 180 all out, with Odean Brown, 27, leading the batting. Darren Sammy, 4-20, batting first. Raymon Reifer topscored with 45 and Shacaya Shane Shillingford, 4-45, Dellorn Johnson, Chris Gayle’s nemesis in Thomas contributed 35. Larry both innings, 2 for 21, shared the Joseph grabbed 3 for 32; Gavin Tonge had 3 for 55 and Anthony spoils.

The Windwards’ batsman could Martin 2 for 36.

The Leewards replied with 243, not match the efforts of the a lead of 63. Steve Liburd scored bowlers, as they were dismissed 53, Tonito Willett 44, and Devon for 130 in their first knock, with Thomas 40. Bowling for the CCC, Devon Smith hitting 49 and Kevin McClean had figures of 3 Johnson Charles 30. Nikita for 39 and Kesrick Williams 2 for Miller picked up 2 for 16, Tamar Lambert 2 for 27 and Odean Brown 2 for 31.

The Windwards remain on 36 points from 4 matches, while Jamaica is the lone unbeaten team, sitting on 24 points from 2 matches, the same as Barbados whose tally is from 3 matches.

37.

Batting a second time, the CCC declared at 367 for 6. Chadwick Walton hit 101 not out, Raymon Reifer 85, Anthony Alleyne 71 and Floyd Reifer 48. Anthony Martin took 3 for 112 and Tonito Willett 2 for 100.

Chasing 305 to win, the Leewards crumbled for 152.

Devon Thomas scored 37, as Ryan Austin picked up 6 for 48 and Akeem Dewar, 2 for 42.

The win pushed the CCC to 12 points from three matches, with the Leewards on 7 points, also from 3 matches.

The competition takes a break this weekend, but resumes 23rd March, when Barbados hosts the Windwards at the Kensington Oval; Trinidad and Tobago hosts the CCC at the Queen’s Park Oval, and at the Sabina Park in Jamaica, the Leewards are away to Jamaica.

Century-maker Shiv Chanderpaul could not prevent a T&T victory.

Chadwick Walton stroked his way to a century.

T& T surpasses Guyana Host Trinidad and Tobago had to ward off a determined Guyana team to go fourth in the Sunil Narine worked his magic to ensure a T&T victory over Guyana. table.

Ryan Austin just won’t go away.

He claimed another five-wicket innings haul.

26. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 27.

Classifieds

FOR RENT 1 Unfurnished 3-bedroom house at Diamond Please contact Tel: 784-527-4775 or 784-526-2618 for further information.

RE-SELLER ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS NEEDED Hi-Tech & Hi Savings LED & Solar Systems See Sites www.proledtech.com and also www.smartenergylightingtechnology. com

RANDOLPH HUNTE Arnos Vale Christian Church Sunday 10th March, 2013 2:30 p.m.

WYAN RONNY STEWART

Healing & Prophetic Ministries Saturday 9th March, 2013 2:00 p.m.

ST. CLAIR MATTHEWS Born: 30th September, 1924 - Died: 26th February, 2013 Grace & Truth Hall Sunday 10th March, 2013 2:00 p.m.

ANTHONY AUGUSTUS DACON St. Paul’s Anglican Church Thursday 6th March, 2013 3:00 p.m.

JAMES SPROTT St. James Anglican Church Layou Saturday 9th March, 2013 3:00 p.m.

VINTIE HERMINA SANDY Sunrise: 29/10/44 Sunset: 1/3/13 Mount Halibeth Spiritual Baptist Church, Villa Friday 8th March, 2013 2:00 p.m.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

MARCH 15, 2013

VOLUME 107, No.11

A.I. REAL ESTATE Kingstown Shopping Complex on water front. - CALL - CC082 Arnos Vale 2 bedrm Property on 22,877 sq.ft. - $750,000.00 - H586 Kingstown Park 4 bedrm Property on 5,720 sq.ft. - $460,000.00 - H710 Other listings are available Phone: 457-2087 Fax: 457-1382 Toll Free (USA): 866-978-0951 718-732-0545 Email: donp@vincysurf.com Website: www.aisvg.com

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

TEENAGE PREGNANCY STILL A CONCERN

14 giving birth,” said Burgin.

The Health Minister said “a THE ISSUE OF TEENAGE PREGNANCY coordinated effort is needed to tackle CONTINUES TO BE A MAJOR concern for this problem,” which will require the health personnel here. input of every sector of society.

According to Minister of Health, He, however, noted with Wellness and the Environment, satisfaction and a sense of Clayton Burgin, there were a total of accomplishment the improvement in eight girls, ranging from 11 to 14 years both perinatal and neonatal mortality old, who gave birth in SVG last year. rates, noting that the neonatal Minister Burgin disclosed the figure mortality rate continues to decline as a while delivering a Ministerial result of the work of the ministry’s Statement during a sitting of staff, and the policies of the Parliament last Monday. government to deliver healthcare to all Burgin admitted that teenage citizens, including new-born. pregnancy continues to be the major Burgin also commended the World concern for his ministry, even as the Pediatric Project, the Pan-American nation records a constant decrease in Health Organization, the government prenatal mortality. of Chile and civic organizations in “The area that continues to worry Canada for their support in the my ministry is teenage pregnancy. The establishing the Neonatal Intensive teenage pregnancy rate in 2012 Care Unit. remained high, standing at 17.9 per “Mr. Speaker, when one considers cent, with eight girls between 11 and that St. Vincent and the Grenadines

by KENVILLE HORNE

does not possess the technological capabilities and sophistication as the more developed countries, to have such a steady decline of deaths in the perinatal period, is indeed a remarkable feat,” Burgin boosted.

He said that only one maternal death was recording in 2012. That person was said to be a woman from a rural part of the country, who had rarely visited the district clinic. He encouraged pregnant women to visit their clinics early in their pregnancy.

“I am pleased to say that, despite our challenges in 2012, the maternal and child health services at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and the community health service registered a good year in Clayton Burgin, Minister of Health, acknowledged that teenage pregnancy is 2012,” Burgin concluded. still a major concern.

Congratulations for Mitchell and Stuart DR GODWIN FRIDAY, THE NORTHERN GRENADINES’ PARLIAMENTARY representative, has described Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ reference to the New National Party’s (NNP) manifesto as clutching at straw.

The NNP, led by Dr Keith Mitchell, was returned to office in Grenada with a clean sweep of the polls held February 18.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has thanked Dr. Keith Mitchell, recently installed Prime Minister of Grenada, for acknowledging the success in the region as engineered by the Unity Labour Party government under Dr. Gonsalves.

Dr. Gonsalves was at the time, during a sitting of Parliament here last Monday, congratulating Dr. Mitchell and his New National Party (NNP), on their victory at the Freundel Stuart takes his second oath February 19 poll in Grenada, The Vincentian leader regretted as Prime Minister of Barbados, this having to turn down Dr. Mitchell’s time having led his party to victory. invitation to the opening of the new

by WILLIAM KOJAH ANTHONY

parliament in Grenada, but thanked his Grenadian counterpart “for recognizing the truth.”

The Prime Minister also took the time to Dr. Keith Mitchell takes the oath of office of Prime Minister note that governments in following his victory in the February 19, 2013 general the region have elections in Grenada. changed “more became Prime Minister in 2001, he often than not,” since 2008. Dr. met Dr. Mitchell at the helm in Gonsalves also congratulated Grenada.

Barbadian Prime Minister Freundel Mitchell was replaced by Tilman Stuart on his success at the February Thomas who led the National elections in that country.

Democratic Congress to victory in the The Democratic Labour Party July 8, 2008 general elections. The (DLP), led by Stuart, held on to the NDC won 11 of the fifteen seats then, reins of power with 16 seats compared but failed to retain a single one in the to 14 won by the Barbados Labour last poll.

Party (BLP). The Vincentian leader Stuart became Prime Minister after looked forward to working with the his party leader, David Thompson, two leaders. died October 23, 2010. Thompson led In Dr. Mitchell’s case, it is a return his party to victory in general elections to Caricom. When Dr. Gonsalves January 2008.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

MARCH 15, 2013

VOLUME 107, No.11

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Eustace in New York

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves took a swipe at those who he claimed made unbecoming comments about the passing of President Hugo Chavez.

Dr. Godwin Friday, MP for the Northern Grenadines, was quick to disassociate the NDP from the attitude to which Dr. Gonsalves referred.

former Venezuelan leader had made to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, DR. RALPH GONSALVES, Prime and indeed throughout the world.

Minister of St. Vincent and the He enumerated the extent of the Grenadines and leader of Government contributions that Chavez and the business in the Parliament, has Venezuelan government had made bemoaned the fact some people here to this country. greeted the news of President Hugo If Dr. Gonsalves gets his way, a Chavez’s death with glee. school or some institution will be “How could anybody really be named in honour of the fallen happy to see a man like Chavez Venezuelan leader. die?” Dr. Gonsalves pondered during Dr. Gonsalves admitted in the a sitting of the Parliament last House last Monday that he was Monday, March 11. asked to convey sentiments on He was at the time leading behalf of the NDP to the Chavez tributes to President Chavez and family and also the people of local education stalwart Norma Venezuela.

Keizer.

There was a Memorial Service at And continuing on the purported the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic unsavory comments about President Church last week Thursday, and Chavez, Dr. Gonsalves quipped, Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves was “Some people (are) just bad-minded. among world leaders who attended a We have to pray for them.” service in Caracas last Friday.

Dr. Gonsalves echoed praises for Chavez, and acknowledged the Opposition response “phenomenal” contributions that the

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Dr. Godwin Friday, the Northern Grenadines representative, deputizing for the Leader of the Opposition who was out of the state, expressed sympathy with the people of Venezuela on the death of former president Hugo Chavez.

He made it clear that “nobody on this side (New Democratic Party) took any pleasure in his death.”

Dr. Friday did opine that Chavez made friends and created detractors, and reminded the sitting that “We’ve had a long association with the people of Venezuela before Chavez,” and wished for “continued cooperation.”

Central Kingstown Parliamentarian St. Clair Leacock found it “unfortunate” that unfavourable remarks were uttered after Chavez’s death.

Continued on Page 3.

WHEN THE PARLIAMENT met here on Monday, March 11, it convened without the Leader of Opposition Arnhim Eustace being present.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that Mr. Eustace was out of the state, and had notified the Speaker of his Arnhim Eustace, plan so to do.

Leader of the The news is that Opposition in SVG, Mr. Eustace is in takes his party’s the US where he is position on national expected to be the issues to Vincentian main speaker at a residents in New York. town hall meeting at the Friends Of Crown Heights, 671 Prospect Place, between Bedford & Franklin Avenue, tomorrow, Saturday March 16th, 2013.

According to information received, the Leader of the Opposition is expected to address a range of national issues, not least being: the sale of the national bank; the state of the Building and Loan Association; the Buccama Bay Resort escapade; the cost of living in SVG; and the state of the banana industry and agriculture generally.

Over the years, both Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, leader of the Unity Labour Party, and Arnhim Eustace, leader of the New Democratic Party, have found it fit to address the Vincentian Diaspora, particularly in New York, directly.

APOLOGY In our article captioned “NANO’S ARREST EXHUMES DARK SECRETS’, and carried in our Friday 8th March, 2013 edition, we referred to Parnel Campbell Q.C. as being a ‘a member of the Board of the National Trust Authority’.

We now know that reference to Mr. Campbell was erroneous, and apologise for any inconvenience caused to his person and/or reputation.

2. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

The Directors, Management and staff of PDV St. Vincent and the Grenadines Limited express sincere condolences to the Government and People of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on the passing of their beloved President Hugo Chávez.

We know that God will comfort you in your time of grief.

“Convinced as I am and as I am from my government that the world needs a new moral architecture over all I believe that this should be the first topic to debate in our world of today, ethics, moral.”

Hugo Chávez Frias

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 3.

News 3

Ministry of Culture showcases local creativity

by KENVILLE HORNE

THE LOCAL CREATIVE FRATERNITY got a huge boost of confidence following the staging of the fifth annual Film, Fine Art, and Fashion (FFAF) exhibition, on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 March.

The exhibition, hosted by the Department of Culture of the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture, at the Kingstown Methodist Church Hall, showcased the creative work of students.

The venue bore testimony of Vincentian creative ability: the standing easels decorated with winning posters from the recently held Botanical Gardens 250th Anniversary Competition;

Students of the St. Mary’s R.C. School viewing some of the paintings on show.

Left: Melinda Bacchus (left) and Marcia Williams form part of the KMK Fashion line that is also pictured.

Williams with her functional art crafted as wall hangers and haberdashery tools; and a collection of knitted clothing from Vivian Child; all bringing Cassandra Williams of craft and clothing items from students involved in to light aspects of the local Cassie’s Designs. creative arts industry. the Clothing and Textile As far as the films Even with a focus on Programme at the which were shown over students, other local Kingstown Technical the two-day period, designers and artists were Cultural Officer at the Institute, the Girls High School and the St. Vincent given the opportunity to Department of Culture, exhibit their works of art. Mr. Anthony Theobalds, Grammar School; These included recently paintings from local explained that all the launched KMK Fashion artists like Owen Ralph, films shown were locally line from designer Kimsha Peter Providence, and

made, “both in terms of story line and the acting scenes.”

He highlighted the movie entitled ‘Home’, produced by the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit (RIDU), which he said was “a dedication to SVG’s Culture ,and a reminder of SVG’s beauty to persons living in the Diaspora.”

According to Theobalds, it is his Department’s intention to host other such events.

Melinda Bacchus and Marcia Williams, participants at the

exhibition, told THE VINCENTIAN that they were honored to be a part of the function.

Bacchus added that such activities would help to motivate persons involved in the creative industry to continue, despite the obstacles they may face.

The Film, Fine Arts and Fashion Exhibition formed part of the activities to mark March as National Heroes and Heritage Month, coordinated by the Department of Culture.

HIV/AIDS Love Fest of CARE SVG HIV Support Group, Mr. Winfield Tannis, THE MINISTRY OF the competition unveiled a HEALTH, Wellness and the wealth of knowledge, Environment collaborated understanding, and sensitivity with CARE SVG HIV Support about the issue of HIV/AIDS. Group to hold the HIV/AIDS There was a ready willingness Love Fest at the Peace to participate, and the entries Memorial Hall on Thursday, were overwhelming.

28th February.

Ms. Patsy Wyllie, Chief Health Educator in the Perspectives Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment,told the Poetry and poster gathering that, our competitions were organized constitution makes bold claims among senior and junior for the protection of all students to provide an citizens, yet stigma and opportunity for them to voice discrimination towards their opinions on HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS still exist.

According to Vice President She went on to explain that

by GLORIAH…

very few countries are explicit about antidiscrimination laws, and this situation comes partly because infected individuals mostly show an unwillingness to declare their status.

As far as St. Vincent and the Grenadines goes, we have made significant strides in combating the disease, she recalled, but that in itself is insufficient. Such collaboration between the Ministry and CARE SVG proved to be a step in the right

He noted that, even though there might have been differences regarding some aspects of Chavez’s style, “he (Chavez) was a significant game-changer.”

Keizer evokes unity The session devoted to tributes to Norma Keizer, former principal of the Girls’ High School and proprietor

Left: Patsy Wyllie, Chief Health Educator, says we have made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS, but that is still not sufficient.

the following winners: 1st — Akeem Peters, “Let’s Stop Poetry and Poster Winners Discrimination”; 2nd — Dimelon Francis, “Your Life, The Poetry Competition was Your Choice”; and 3rd — held under two categories: 8 — Sheffielia Francis, “If I Was 12 years and 13 — 17 years. In HIV Positive”. Honourable the 8 — 12 years category, the mention was made of entries in the poetry category, for winners were as follows: 1stDellonte Boucher with “HIV Alyssa Patterson and and editor of The Searchlight For Dr. Godwin Friday, and Little Me”; 2nd Nneka Mc Cornelius Jones, and in the newspaper, who died on Keizer was a “true nation poster category, for Chad Millan with “I am You”; and February 19, 2013, was much builder.”

3rd Kyle Small with “Have a Mascoll. more cordial.

His opposition colleague St. Heart”.

The students were given the Dr. Gonsalves, who led the Clair Leacock confessed to In the 13 — 17 years opportunity to read their tributes, declared that “of all having known Norma well. He category, the winners were as compositions to the audience the graduates of University of pointed to her role as a follows: 1st — Cornelius Jones as a ‘show of love’ in the the West Indies from St. cultural enthusiast, and with “Stigma and concert which followed. Other Vincent and the Grenadines, reflected on her involvement Discrimination”; 2nd — Shari artistes also gave of their time she has made the greatest as a judge in the Carnival Mas to contribute to the outpouring Rouse with “Stigma and contribution here.”

Bands competition. of love given to the infected Discrimination is No Cure”; Keizer was noted for having For Leacock, Norma’s and 3rd — Akeem Peters with and affected of the deadly created an interest in local legacy is manifested by her disease of HIV/AIDS. “Dear Mother”. history. children.

The Poster Competition saw

‘Some people are bad-minded,’ PM declares Continued from Page 1.

Grammar School Band performing at last Thursday’s ‘Love Fest’.(Debut)

direction.

V

4. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Twist in former Miss HeritageÊs case

Mesopotamia, and Rezan DaSilva, 21, of Pembroke, all students.

The complainants in the other matters have indicated that they would be proceeding. In those, Chance is charged with assaulting and causing actual bodily harm to students Ayeika Samuel, 18, of Mesopotamia; Lorene Williams, 18, of Biabou, and Breni Allexander of Riley.

Chance is charged with common assault in relation to Samantha Lavia, 19, of Bequia, also a student.

Chance had pleaded not guilty to all eight charges when she initially appeared before Magistrate Rechanne Browne- Matthias at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week Monday Jonique Chance was stripped of her March 4th , and the case was Miss Heritage 2011 title. adjourned to Monday, March 11.

Prosecutor Inspector Glenford Gregg Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS requested then that the Court order FOUR OF THE EIGHT CHARGES of assault Chance not to have any contact with the complainants. brought against former National She is represented by attorney Jomo Secondary Schools’ Miss Heritage 2011, Thomas.

Jonique Chance, were dismissed on The charges with which the Monday March 11 after the prosecution would be proceeding have complainants indicated to the court that been adjourned to April 28. they would not be offering evidence.

Chance’s brush with the law In those matters, Chance, a 17-yearold student of the St. Vincent and the allegedly stems from an incident in the area of Mahogany Square, Richmond Grenadines Community College, was Hill, February 28, 2013, during which charged with assaulting and causing actual bodily harm to Trishanna Ross, some students sustained burns about 20, of Calliaqua; Lorenzo Williams, 18, their bodies from an unknown substance. of Biabou; Ronna Holder, 20, of

On October, 22, 2011, the National regard to Miss Chance.

Secondary School’s Miss Heritage “The aim of the pageant is to assist Pageant Planning Committee crowned with the molding of a future Chance the winner of the Second generation of women who exemplify Biennial Miss Heritage Pageant. She qualities of discipline, decorum, was at the time a student of the dignity and positivity’.”

Thomas Saunders Secondary School, She was also adjudged the winner in the Best Ambassadorial and Best Talent Categories.

However, following a number of reports against Chance, the Committee took a unanimous decision to revoke the title of Miss Heritage 2011 from her.

In a statement last week, TWO POLICE OFFICERS were fined $400 each last the Committee made it week Monday, March 4, for using indecent language clear that a letter dated to one of their colleagues.

Tuesday, February 5, Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias handed 2013 was written to down the penalty after convicting Constables Andy Chance informing her Richards and Deshorn Demberat at the conclusion that her duties as Miss of a trial at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court. The Heritage 2011, will lawmen were initially ordered to pay the Court cease, effective February forthwith, but were subsequently allowed until 15, 2013. midday the following day.

The Committee stated, The officers were given an alternative of four “The Planning weeks in prison, but they paid the fines.

Committee as well as the Their brush with the law stemmed from an host, institution, the incident between them and patrons at Huffles Girls High School, are Ranch, a night spot at Brighton, around 3:30 am saddened and October 29th 2011. embarrassed as to what Evidence revealed they were behaving in an has transpired with aggressive manner and using indecent language.

Corporal David Wright spoke to them but they continued misbehaving. Richards told Corporal Wright, “let me to f… go,” while Dember said, “you know who I f..k .. be.”

Corporal Wright reported against the constables Richards had pleaded not guilty and they were subsequently arrested and charged. to all three charges when he They were also accused of unlawfully and initially appeared before then Senior Magistrate Donald Browne maliciously wounding Keih McDowall, a 27-year-old labourer of Prospect, by stabbing him in the back at the Kingstown Magistrate’s with a knife, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Court on May 29, 2012.

Last Week Monday March 4, at Those charges allegedly arose from the same incident, but the prosecution withdrew them, as the the same Court, Magistrate complainant McDowall is currently abroad.

Rechanne Browne-Matthias Attorneys Jomo Thomas and Duane Daniel ordered Richards and Constable Deshorn Dember to pay the Court represented the policemen while Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Colin John led the case for $400 each for using indecent the prosecution. language to corporal David The officers were suspended from duties pending Wright. They paid the fines. the outcome of the case.

Policeman to answer more charges A POLICE OFFICER is slated to re-appear in Court next Monday, March 18, to answer to criminal charges, two weeks after he was fined $400 for using indecent language to one of his colleagues.

Constable Andy Richards of Arnos Vale is accused of using indecent language to constable Derek Humphrey by telling him “haul yo stinking mudder (expletive), you is the Commissioner dog.”

P.C Richards is also charged with assaulting P.C. Humphrey

by pushing him. Both charges reportedly stem from an incident at Heritage Square, May 12, 2012, where Commissioner of Police Keith Miller and Assistant Commissioner Lenroy Brewster were present.

P.C. Richards is additionally charged with damaging a 30x70 ½ glass barrier at the reception area of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on the same date. The glass is said to value EC $1012.

Policemen fined for indecent language

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 5.

Regional

Hearing in Myrie’s case shifts to Barbados

THE CARIBBEAN COURT OF JUSTICE (CCJ) hearing of the case brought by Jamaican Shanique Myrie against the government of Barbados now shifts to Barbados.

Myrie is seeking damages for what she claims was sexual assault by a Barbados immigration officer, and denial of entry into that country.

The CCJ had sat in Jamaica over last week, when it heard testimony from four witnesses. The hearing was brought to a premature end when it was discovered that one of the witnesses was illiterate, reports out of Jamaica said.

The Jamaican government, in the hearing, argued that Jamaicans have been deported on the basis on their nationality, over the years.

One of the witnesses for the Jamaican argument, John Wilson, a vendor, testified that he was deported from Barbados on May 25, 2008, but not

before he was x-rayed by immigration officials who suspected he was carrying drugs.

Wilson told the court that he was detained overnight, even though the x-ray had turned up no evidence he was carrying drugs. He was taken to the airport the next morning, fingerprinted, handed his passport and deported.

However, Wilson, under cross examination by the lead attorney for Barbados, Roger Forde, was discovered to be illiterate.

Further in the hearing, several disparities were highlighted during the cross examination of Epheium Allen, Deputy Director of Immigration at the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA).

Allen was called upon to provide statistics to prove that Jamaicans seeking to enter Barbados have been discriminated against over several years.

He provided data to show that hundreds of

Jamaicans were denied entry based on their nationality, from 2006 — 2012.

Forde challenged this and pointed to disparities in the figures from PICA. The PICA Director said in 2008 just over two hundred Jamaicans were refused entry, while Barbados had 404 in its records.

And on the question of whether the PICA had communicated with Barbados immigration to verify that the persons listed were refused entry due their nationality, Allen answered in the negative.

Under crossexamination by the CCJ judges, Allen told the court that in Jamaica, the refusal of entry for a CARICOM national is an absolute last resort; that Jamaican Immigration officers do not deny entry based on the perceived background of the local host as the traveller is trusted on his or her own merit..

The next sitting in the

T&T wants to know THERE HAS BEEN MUCH SPECULATION in Trinidad and Tobago since the news broke there, late last week, that the sons of one of that country’s ministers of government was under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States.

In fact, an investigative report carried in last Sunday’s issue of the Trinidad Guardian newspaper revealed that one of the minister’s sons was under house arrest in the US, and was assisting the FBI and the Internal revenue Service (IRS) with investigations.

The report also quoted sources as saying that the investigations centred on “on money-laundering, fraud and tax evasion.”

The minister’s son, according to the Guardian, was held in December last year when he arrived in the US. Investigation by the Guardian uncovered sources who described the case as “highly secretive.”

There has been no response from the Trinidad and Tobago government to the Guardian’s report, and now Opposition Leader, Dr. Keith Rowley has gone public with a statement that he thinks, “the

minister should be identified and the public shouldn’t be left to speculate, and at that stage we would determine the nature of the problem,” according to the Trinidad Express of Monday 11th March.

The Express went on to quote Dr. Rowley as saying, “It is not fair to be left to speculation against the whole Cabinet... whoever is involved should come forward and identify himself or herself because there is a lot of speculation and rumour, and in the public interest a matter like this should not be left as a speculative manner.”

In a more sweeping comment, Dr. Rowley said, “And in all issues, the one common thread is that the Government is not being forthright and truthful with the population and continues to destroy our good order,” said Rowley.

Since Dr. Rowley’s public expressions, at least one leading figure, Prakash Ramadhar, leader of the Congress of the People (COP), one constituent group of the People’s Partnership government, has responded.

“I wait with bated breath for more information on this matter

Dr. Keith Rowley, Leader of the Opposition in T&T, has called on the government to make a public statement on the matter of a minister’s son who has been allegedly detained in the US. because it is extremely serious and I imagine quite urgent,” he said.

“Having read the (Sunday Guardian) article, we are waiting on the foreign authorities’ decision as to how they go forward and what is disclosed to us”, Ramadar added.

The Express reported that both the Attorney General, Anand Ramlogan, and the Minister of National Security, Austin ‘Jack’ Warner, declined comment.

Owen’s move a positive one Four witnesses testified for the Jamaica government in the Shanique Myrie (pictured) case.

Roger Forde, lawyer for the Barbados government, raised certain questions about disparities when a Jamaican Immigration official testified. case will be heard in Barbados on March 18.

PUBLIC SENTIMENT in Barbados is that Owen Arthur’s quick decision, to step aside as leader of the Opposition, was a positive one.

Arthur did not attend the meeting of the Barbados Labour Party’s (BLP) parliamentary group post the February 21, 2013 general elections in Barbados, giving the group Mia Mottley will the leeway to elect Mia hopefully have a Mottley to replace him. free reign this The hope is that Arthur time around to will not resort to a similar tactic to that in 2010 when he assert herself as leader of the returned to oust Mottley.

The expectation now is that BLP. Mottley will be allowed the next five years “to grow with her team in the eyes of the public,” one observer advanced.

Many Barbadians believed the BLP made a mistake when it brought back Arthur to lead the party.

Expectations are high among Barbadians who now look forward to a stepped-up contribution from the opposition bench which now shows an increased number and a number of new and young faces.

The Democratic Labour Party, led by Freundel Stuart, was returned to office with a 16 — 14 majority in the House of Representatives.

V SVG Top Models chosen 6. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Fashion

by GLORIAH

THE SVG TOP MODEL SEARCH CLIMAXED LAST SATURDAY, 9TH MARCH, with a spectacular performance of the ten finalists at the SOV Restaurant in Villa.

After three appearances during the finals, six models were selected. They were Tristina Wallace, Nikita Phillips, Antonia Clarke, Antoinell Keizer, Selis Blair, and Steve Thomas.

Each worked his/her way through three final segments: ‘Sponsor Tee Shirt and Shorts’, ‘Creative Wear’ and ‘Own Wardrobe Wear’.

Tristina, Antionell, Selis and Steve will compete in the Pulse Caribbean Next Top Model Search in Jamaica, while Nikita and Antonia will go to the competition in the Caribbean Next Top Model in Trinidad and Tobago.

TRISTINA I heard about the model search from Pearl Williams. I was excited but nervous at first; but after the first session, my nervousness subsided.

The challenges were good. I expected the commercial challenge so I felt comfortable doing it. For me, my wardrobe is quite tacky. I’m a very laid back person. I have a flaw as a model.

I cannot do my own make-up. At the final, the other models helped me with that. I didn’t expect the Creative Wear, but I found it innovative. The crowd’s energy pushed me. I’m excited about going to Jamaica because I have never traveled before. There is a lot of stuff I will have to improve on, though, like time management. In Jamaica, I want to impress the judges and let people know where SVG is.

THE VINCENTIAN met with five of the winners and asked about their journey to the top and their expectation for the future.The SVG Next Top Model was a reality-type show and is scheduled to air shortly.

NIKITA I heard about the search from a family member. It was like today for tomorrow, so I was not really prepared, but I found it was not nerve- wracking at all. I was comfortable with it from the start, but for my commercial challenge, I would have liked a different setting. I was nervous, but it came out okay. The final was awesome. I didn’t expect to have a crowd so supportive. My favourite segment was the Creative Wear. That made me want to push myself to the next segment. About going to Trinidad and Tobago, I’m excited but nervous.

I plan to woo the judges, though; be myself and a bit extra. I’m going to work on my walk.

ANTONIA My mom saw the search in the newspaper.

Though I always wanted to do modeling professionally, it took a lot of persuasion. I was nervous at first because I do not like cameras, but by the second round, I was not scared at all. I was excited for the commercial challenge.

I had seen it coming, but I tried to sell my own line of make-up and had to be extra persuasive, but I did my best. I still have things to work on before I go to Jamaica. I will try my best and show that SVG has young, aspiring models who can pursue modeling as a career.

ANTOINELL Jolene Bentick messaged me about the search, and my friends encouraged me to do it. I love walking the runway; modeling is my thing, so I was confident but a little jittery at first.

I always wanted to do a commercial, so trying to sell a fragrance like an Aquarius coming out of the water was great. With no sound, I improvised with my cell phone music and it all came out well. I’m so excited. I am longing to go to Jamaica. I want to impress the judges that SVG has individuals who could reach far in the modeling industry.

SELIS I saw the search in the newspaper. I was nervous at first and jumpy about the questioning. There was a problem with finding the outfits for the different challenges, so I modified outfits that I had already, but all went smoothly.

I am excited but nervous about going to Jamaica. I know there is a lot of stuff to work on. I want to give it my all so that they could see that SVG has what they are looking for. I want to be the Caribbean’s Next Top Model.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 7.

Education

UWI group embracing Âpeople of the streetÊ A GROUP OF PERSONS FROM AMONG THOSE PURSUING A UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES (UWI) programme in social work, has targeted the ‘people of the street’ as the basis of their practicum.

The group is expected to interact with those persons who have made their homes the streets of Kingstown, with a view of enhancing their (targets’) self-esteem.

One member of the group of sixteen students, Gweneth Anthony, explained that their overall aim is to sensitise the general public about the plight of ‘the people of the streets’.

Insisting that they, ‘the people of the street’, are not homeless, neither are they “vagrants”, as many have homes and relatives who are in touch with them, Anthony said: “They are very smart and intelligent people…. just some unfortunate circumstances why they are on the streets.”

Anthony noted that these people have some interesting stories, but simply need an ear and someone to show them some compassion.

And, on Sunday 24th February, several of ‘the people of the streets’, outfitted with tee shirts, compliments the National Olympic Committee of St Vincent and the Grenadines, were taken on a fun walk through the streets of Kingstown, The walk culminated at the Kingstown Vegetable Market where ‘the people of the streets’ were treated to snacks and drinks.

One of the walkers remarked how refreshing it was for them to go on such a walk, although they would have traversed the route on countless occasions.

Anthony, along with Desiree Wilson, another group member, partnered with the Soup Kitchen operated by the R.C. Church, Kingstown,

and assisted with the distribution of the meals which are served on a daily basis to about 80 individuals.

Anthony and others have continued to assist at the Soup Kitchen as they seek to connect and form bonds with ‘the people of the streets’.

“We are also trying Persons in the UWI Social Work Study programme lead the walk with ‘the people of the street’. to bring to them some health aspects,” Anthony revealed.

Bound to their theme, ‘Changing lives, one step at a time through social work’, Anthony hopes that at the conclusion of the practicum in April, they would have impacted on the lives of those with whom they have come into contact, help to lift their spirits and effect change in their personal lives.

Gweneth Anthony makes sure one of ‘the people of the streets’ gets a snack.

More benefits from AGANAR twenty-five participants that, participants that “In order for us to win, we while it does not offer employment, “it prepares them must persevere, and if we persevere, we are for the job market.”

She urged the new students going to earn.” to take the programme “very The other seriously.” facilitators are Director of Special Projects in Leanna McGuire and the Office of the Prime Vivien Charles.

Minister’s Office and former area representative, Dr. Jerrol Thompson, in urging the Right: Dr. Jerrol participants to make use of the Thompason promised opportunity, told them that that government would “being from North Leeward consider employing should not be a disadvantage. some of the A Ganar Some people think it is, (but)it participants on should not be,” and attachment. emphasized, “There is a great Participants in the second cycle of the North Leeward A Gabar deal of knowledge and programme with programme co-ordinator Anesta Rodney (sitting experience in the centre) and facilitators. constituency.”Dr. Thompson invited the coordinator to call on him for assistance

by KENVILLE HORNE if necessary, revealing that his government would be able to employ some persons on job attachments.

THE SECOND CYCLE OF THE NORTH Renaldo Ollivierre, who graduated from the first LEEWARD A GANAR PROGRAMME commenced cycle, said he was thankful for all that the with an orientation ceremony, on Saturday, programme taught him. He also cherished the time February, 23rd, at the Troumaca Secondary School. he spent on attachment at BRAGSA. Ollivierre said Giving brief welcoming remarks, Anesta Rodney, there is substantial benefit to be derived by working Coordinator of the North Leeward leg, explained together, and encouraged the participants to show that A GANAR means to win, and it utilizes soccer respect for one another.One of the programme and other team sports to help youths, ages 16-24, facilitators, Deanah Haywood, expressed happiness find jobs, learn entrepreneurial skills, or re-enter with the turnout. the formal education system.

“The youths have really come today to participate Renaldo Ollivierre, graduate of the first cycle, “A GANAR combats the serious problem of youth in this programme, and we do hope whatever is passes on the A Ganar programme manual to unemployment,” Rodney said, but cautioned the done, would benefit them,” she said, and advised the second leg participant Lenicia Robertson.

V

8. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 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 Remaining ‘us’ after Chavez and a special election THIS IN NO WAY SUPPORTS any unsavory comments about a person after that person has been called to the Great Beyond.

But try as much as some acolytes of Hugo Chavez will, they cannot deny that Hugo Chavez, for all the good he may have brought to the poor and oppressed in Venezuela, the assistance given to large and small fledging states in Latin America and the Caribbean, he was a polarizing figure.

If this characterization is a truism, then it accounts for the reaction to his death that any person true to this reality, would have expected; that the reaction to the death of this 21st century combatant was going to be sprawling and contradictory as he lived and as his legacy is likely to be.

That is why, while as the opening statement implies that there is nothing becoming of those who ‘celebrate with glee the passing of the man’, if one accepts that Hugo Chavez was a polarizing figure, then those less than complimentary reactions should have been expected.

Not that they are the ‘Christian’ thing to do, but that they are understandable, given the content and context of the man.

That we would want to ignore them should have been the stance taken; for to give them ‘the honour’ of a rebut in our Parliament is as much to condemn them, rightfully so, as it is to deny what should have been accepted as the obvious and allowed to sink rapidly into obscurity.

This country, under the ULP, has much, much about which to be thankful for to Chavez and Venezuela.

The Prime Minister, from his vantage position, described Venezuela under Chavez as ‘one of the Coalition of the Willing’. He could hardly do anything but reiterate that, and that, regardless of what side of the coin you prefer, is the truth.

The extent to which Chavez’s Venezuela propped up this economy and gave willingly to this country’s infra-structural development, the people’s health and education, is undeniable and is an integral component of the record book of the ULP government.

But this is no time to ‘impose’ on this country, glorification of a man who would have caused as much polarization in this country as he did in his own.

We, therefore, must be careful that when we say “thanks,” we do so willingly, graciously, without becoming inordinately subservient to the extent that we allow ourselves to be made extensions of something, an ideology, that is not, in the main, ours.

That Chavez represents a clear ideology that speaks to a new socialism is irrefutable. The question then is: If we begin to glorify the man in a way that he appears to supersede our own, then, we are selling ourselves to the highest bidder. When and where will it then stop?

Perhaps our most fitting tribute to Hugo Chavez is to guard against the inculcation of a sense of understanding ourselves that is dictated to by the strictures of any ideology, personified by any one person or group of persons, that makes us anything other than who we really are, Vincentians.

Up to press time, the conclave of 115 cardinals meeting in the Vatican to elect a new pope, had failed to reach any consensus, far less a unanimous decision.

The smoke bellowed black from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, indicting that no one had gained the 77 votes needed to be elected pope.

Millions of Roman Catholics the world over had to hold their breaths once again.

But this is not a strange occurrence, the failure to arrive at a decision after a number of rounds of voting. However, it remains something with which Catholics worldwide are uncomfortable.

Who can blame the ordinary Roman Catholic if he asks, against this indecision: Do the cardinals know what they want in a new pope? Do the cardinals have any idea what Roman Catholics want from a new pope? Is the rich American church wielding some influence somewhere, somehow? Has a non-European candidate emerged as a leading candidate, resulting in ongoing disagreement about the readiness of the Roman Catholic church to accept that it has to reflect its ‘universality’, by choosing a pope from where its numerical strength lies?

The Roman Catholic Church has survived the centuries because it continually reforms itself. Is this another junction of reformation that, this time, will be led by a ‘Third World’ pope? It remains to be seen.

National Heroes Day and Chavez IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME coming.

Over two decades ago, there had been talk of proclaiming a national hero or two to inspire our fledgling State.

Eleven (11) years ago, the ULP, having confirmed the popular figure of Joseph Chatoyer as first National Hero, began a national quest for others.

I was on the ball, simply because I had done work on Joshua virtually for my Ph.D studies in 1971, with a backup of the Mc Intosh era as the precursor and enabling environment of the later exercise.

And so I thought I had enough material to support both men as National Heroes. I made out a case for both men and submitted them to the new Minister of Culture, Mike Browne (my nephew), who showed no enthusiasm over the affair and seemed to pooh-pooh the idea.

I wrote “1935 revisited” in the “Flambeau” in 1967, which highlighted Mac’s role in the disturbances, and later followed up with a further piece published in Forum 1972, which I spruced up and published in the Kings’ “Trailblazer” in 2011.

I have always promised a book on Joshua which is now pledged for mid- 2014.

Citations on the two never seemed to bestir the current ULP authorities; their man seemed to be Milton Cato to whose claim I was unalterably opposed and put up strenuous objection thereto. The “Catoites” dropped the case for several years.

This year, they seemed to reopen the question in earnest with more urgency. On this question, Parnel used his “Law and You” programme to argue the case for Dr. Parmenos Eustace forcibly and cogently.

It was after that brilliant presentation that Douggie De Freitas, not for the first time, threw out his Nice Radio Station to whomsoever wished to speak on the topic and promote a worthy claimant.

Immediately, Adrian Fraser volunteered to speak on Mc Intosh, I on Joshua and Parnel on Doc Eustace. I could not help noticing that the needed democratic debate was in fact started by three members of the Educational Forum of the People which originated in 1969- Adrian Fraser, Parnel Campbell and Kenneth John. We understand that Prime Minister Gonsalves is expected to use the forum of Nice Radio in extending the conversation even further.

I think that Doc Kirby could be usefully considered, but I depend only on my gut feeling, lacking the equipment for such advocacy. Cims, Morrison Baisden and Louise Mitchell could lend their assistance.

As well, there is a brood of mighty women ready to fight on behalf of their neglected gender. For the present, I see Chatoyer, Mc Intosh and Joshua ruling the roost for another fifty years, with new faces emerging over time.

National Heroes holiday is usually the time that Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace has his beach picnic fundraiser,

and mauby and ginger beer at the Sion Hill Beach Spot.

Arnhim is in his element at those times, but he will be the first person to admit that try as he might, he just cannot let his hair down!

Has the ULP given up the East Kingstown seat, ever since Luke committed a blunder in running off his mouth BLABLA? He might shift to Marriaqua where things seem forever Brown, unless the BLA bubble should burst in the interim.

Hugo Chavez So Hugo Chavez, the huge, has gone the way of all flesh. He was ill, though several times he denied it. His will to fight plus Cuban medical skills were an unbeatable team. And when inevitably he was seen to be sinking, it was the “deeds” of the American Government which had encompassed it!

In fact, Hugo had been sworn in as President in a colourful ceremony without the body. And when he died, they decided to embalm the body, a throw-back to the time of mummification of the Pharaohs in ancient Egypt. This hardly shows love; it demonstrates idolatry!

Chavez was naturally beloved of his supporters in Venezuela whom he looked after very well materially, but whose mendicant spirit he probably whetted.

If I were living among the poor in Venezuela, I would certainly be a supporter.

But I am not living in Venezuela, and though poor, I see where in the system I inhabit there is room for me to try something, to manipulate, and if lucky, or smart enough, or somewhat bright, I can make something of myself.

I believe that all the people of St Vincent should sympathise with Chavez, without becoming disciples of his.

In human psychology, it has been said that every individual is a unit of psychic uniqueness. There can hardly be another Chavez in a thousand years. So his Venezuela followers have best to work out their own salvation. Chavez’s hand-outs bred mendicancy. Chavez used his oil wealth to win friends, and influence people.

Now that he is dead, the largesse and gifts are no more, following about a year or two spill-over.

Then we would have to face reality without the cushioning effect of Chavez, with or without the International Airport.

Vincentians had a splurge over Chavez’s death, with my own hosts beside itself with tributes, photographs, and praises for the dead Chavez. But tomorrow is another day, when we have to take up our beds and walk. Altogether, columnist Keith Joseph handled the matter skilfully. It was like going back from “Just Another Look” to “No Holds Barred”!

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 9.

Letters

Farewell, President Chavez – Courageous Leader of Socialism! resources in their interests.

Guided by an altruistic internationalism, he shared those resources with many peoples the world over. We in St. Vincent and the Grenadines know this only too well. Note, for example, equipment and personnel for our international airport; subsidized gasoline and cooking-gas; more scholarships for our young, to mention a few.

In response to our 2011 letter to him during his medical treatment in Cuba on the occasion of his birthday, President Chavez told us that the demands of his office resulted in his insufficient attention to his own health.

He promised to address this insufficiency. Alas, despite his gallant efforts, he has lost the battle against cancer. But he won many battles against the capitalist cancer in his

homeland and, in the process, Venezuelan-Friendship Republic of Venezuela and of has inspired many to follow Association (VENVIFA) reSt. Vincent and the his selfless example. affirms its commitment to its Grenadines, in the context of The words of Nicaraguan mandate “of promoting the unity and integration of the poet laureate, Rubén Darío, on most extensive and mutually peoples of Latin America and the death of José Martí, are beneficial relationships of the Caribbean”. appropriate: “Oh Cuba, the friendship, co-operation, blood of Martí was not yours solidarity and support among Michael Browne alone; it belonged to an entire the peoples of the Bolivarian President of VENVIFA race, to an entire continent; it belonged to the powerful youth who have lost probably the best of teachers; he MR. EDITOR, HAVE And the learners had to lengths in front of the belonged to YOU NOTICED THE negotiate these cones, vehicle we overtake; no the future! “ EXTENT TO WHICH we going both forward and longer do we turn off our These words are failing to practise backwards. Hit more headlights when we can apply to proper road habits as than one of these cones, come to a stop and there Chavez. and that was you; you is oncoming traffic; no On this the drivers?

I remember vividly, had to come again. longer do we stop when occasion of the the rigors I had to But just as important there is a hindrance death of endure before I was as these practical tests, (like a parked vehicle)on President granted a licence to drive there was the written your side; no longer do Chavez, the a vehicle. Not only was test. Sure it was a we dim our lights in the there the road test, but relatively easy test, but face of oncoming traffic. before you could venture the significance of it was I dare say that there out on the public roadwhat it taught; it taught is hardly a case for ways of Kingstown and proper road user calling on the traffic its immediate practices. department or the police environments for that I remember learning a to ensure proper road test, you had to few things which seem to using practices, for they maneuver through a have all but disappeared are just as guilty as the series of cones, as best road driving ordinary civilian for the strategically placed, in practices in St. Vincent: lax attitude on our roads.

IN THE SPIRIT OF they would in the process cultural identity. And the police station’s yard. no longer do we ensure We, the drivers, are INTERNATIONAL serve the interest of men. that religion that is that when we overtake the only ones who can WOMEN’S DAY, I ASK: And religions and biased against women, that there is no ensure that we return HAS ANYONE EVER religious beliefs form would subliminally oncoming traffic, and proper practices to our STOPPED TO THINK part of our culture. In inculcate a sense, when we return to our roads.

HOW CULTURE CAN fact, religion is a key acceptance, of man’s lane, that we do so at BE BIASED, component to our superiority over women, least two to three car Simon, P ESPECIALLY AGAINST culture- what we say, do and thus, the WOMEN? In our reality, and think. We hardly suppression of our has anyone ever stopped begin a function without women, in our everyday * Is it a fact that a vehicle belonging to the to wonder why our deference to our life, as second class Ministry of Agriculture religions have male gods Christian beliefs and beings. was recently written off and if , at all, there are practices. Even our Just a thought in after an accident at female religious icons, around midnight?

Carnival is launched commemoration of that they all play * Has the regulation with a Christian prayer.

International Women’s subordinate roles to the governing the use of So, a religion so Day. WHERE HAVE ALL THE TRADE UNION men? government vehicles entrenched in our LEADERS GONE? Gone on the state-owned or been modified?

Our religions are all psyche, becomes our HN controlled radio stations to mouth their pieces in * Is a certain fast man-centred, therefore, support of the government. What a pity. food operation here cutting back on staff?

Gone are the days when those said leaders would With two cahiers on at have been out on the road, threatening to close the midday rush hour, DOWN this or that business place or government the service is not so fast, department. Now, nothing of the sort; they have I CAME ACROSS THIS want to show you eh? gone cold, as if this period in our history is the best STORY RECENTLY something.’ * Will the FSA period in the history of industrial relations in this AND THOUGHT I would “I followed her to her respect the Interim country. share it with your tiny dwelling. Inside the Committee headed by I tell you, the Unions are as quiet as door mice Junior Bacchus as a readers. It gives a room, her children and bonafide representative because workers are simply afraid to open their foundation to the work of husband were waiting of shareholders? mouths for fear of losing what little work they have.

President Hugo Chavez for the soup to be * What has become of Times are hard, but thank God for a family member on behalf of the poor of cooked. ‘Look at what that commitment by who lives overseas.

Venezuela.

I’m using for fuel,’ she Guinness to build a But you know, Mr. Editor, the biggest problem I “I remember one day I said to me. ‘The back of facility in the have with those trade union leaders is how quiet got fed up…I decided to our bed. Tomorrow I’ll community of the team they are on the crime situation in this country. go to the barrios on the burn the legs; the day that won Guinness regional Street Football When is the last time (or the first time) any union hills, and with one guard after, the table, then the tournament? leader took a stance against all the crime — murder, and two comrades, I chairs and the doors. We * Is there an attempt child abuse, incest, robbery, etc — in this country? drove out to listen to will survive, but don’t afoot to have the facility Funny thing is the workers they say they people and breathe better give up now.’” built in another represent are the ones most affected by these air. The response moved community other than crimes. me greatly. A woman Nuff said!!! the one from which the came up to me and said: Garnet, N.Y winner comes?

Harry ‘Chavez, follow me, I THE VENEZUELAN-VINCENTIAN FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION (VENVIFA) notes, with deep sadness, the death of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Frias. We extend condolences to and solidarity with his family, the Venezuelan people, his party, and the government.

President Hugo Chavez was defined and distinguished by his unshakable commitment, indeed his determination, to build a socialist society, that is, A SOCIETY FREE OF HUMAN EXPLOITATION. This earned him the profound love of the vast exploited majority, especially the poor, and the unrelenting hatred of the tiny exploiting rich minority, both in Venezuela and outside. Despite their relentless battering attacks, he stood firm with the poor, nationalizing Venezuela’s massive oil and other

Proper Road Traffic Practices are no more

Culture is biased against women

Our trade union leaders

What made the man

V

10. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The Vincentian legacy of the late President Entrepreneurship - Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Hugo Chavez THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY fully adopts The issue THE PASSING OF THE PRESIDENT of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez Frias, has left a huge void in the region of Latin America and the Caribbean, in terms of the leadership against poverty, injustice, and colonialism, and the commitment to building a socialist state in his beloved country.

He was well loved by the people of Venezuela, as well as those in other Latin American countries, and those in Caricom as a whole. Clearly he was not well liked by the western media, who delighted in providing negative coverage of his government, his development focus, and his support for the poor and the working class, and the marginalized.

Hugo Chavez was a friend of the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the full sense of the word. It is perhaps fortunate that the ULP administration and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, were at the helm of governance, during the 14 years of his reign. He has touched every sector of the Vincentian society, and his legacy of support for a people centered development strategy, as developed by the ULP administration, knew no bounds.

Support for the International Airport project Hugo Chavez was a member of the “Coalition of the Willing,” the group of countries committed towards providing assistance to this country, for the construction of the international airport project at Argyle.

Hugo Chavez recognized that the international airport was critically important for the forward thrust of the development strategies of the ULP administration, and he committed the support of himself and his government, towards the project.

Vincentians will remember that day in the year 2008, when the equipment provided by the government of Venezuela, was paraded through the streets of Kingstown, on its way from port Campden Park to the construction site at Argyle. Here was more evidence of the commitment of the late President Chavez to the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Here was evidence, even with the absence of any formal agreement, that the word of Hugo Chavez was his bond.

And there was more assistance for the airport project. Venezuela provided the laboratory required for the wind studies programme.

During the period September 2005 to September 2006, 14 engineers and technicians from Cuba and Venezuela were in St Vincent doing the pre-design works, which included: (a) complete topographic surveys of the area earmarked for the airport, (b) testing of the rocks and soils to inform the cuts and fill work, and (c) wind studies to determine the best orientation of the main runway and the need, if any, for a shorter “cross-wind” runway for smaller planes that might be affected by high gusts while attempting to use the main runway. These have all been completed.

No doubt at an appropriate time, the full unveiling of the total assistance provided by the Chavez administration, towards the airport project, will be done by the IADC. Petro Caribe We can all go back to the year 2005 when the country signed the Petro

Caribe agreement, an oil related alliance involving some nineteen countries. This is another strategy by the Chavez government, to provide assistance to countries during the era of high energy prices.

There is a long list of benefits from the Petro Caribe accord, including the construction of a fuel storage facility at Lowmans Bay. Also on the list is assistance to the Pan against Crime programme, the Social Investment Fund, the Belle Isle Correctional facility, the coastal radar project, LIAT, the JF Mitchell airport, the international airport project, and the electoral department.

The most memorable strategy was the provision of the alternate source of cooking gas, called “labour gas”, consequent upon the dispute with a local supplier, where the country was being held to ransom. Now Vincentians have at their disposal two sources of cooking gas, thanks to the Chavez administration and Alba Caribe.

The Alba Bank Following on from the Petro Caribe agreement, St.Vincent and the Grenadines became a member of the Alba Bank which offered soft loans with interest as low as 2%.

It is important to note that one of the goals of the Alba bank is to accelerate growth, the creation of jobs, and to strengthen the internal markets of member countries.

The ULP administration has benefited from its membership in the Alba bank through soft loans for the Housing Revolution and for the recovery process, following the passage of Tomas.

Other Areas of Assistance Venezuela was the first country to provide food and clothing to this country, following the passage of Tomas, and there are two critical areas of assistance provided by the Chavez administration.

How can we forget the part played by Venezuela in the Vision Now programme, where close to three thousand Vincentians journeyed to Cuba to address their optical problems?

And how can we forget the number of Vincentians who have been offered an opportunity to pursue tertiary education studies, at institutions in Venezuela?

And finally, the net books snapped up by our students and adults alike, with much appreciation, thanks to the Chavez administration.

Vincentians will never forget this giant of a leader. Some will make adverse comments on Face Book and Twitter, but we will never forget the Vincentian legacy of the late Hugo Chavez.

Without him, there would have been no Alba, no Petro Caribe, no community of States of Latin America and the Caribbean, no assistance for the international airport project, no Vision Now, no “Labour Gas”, and the list goes on.

We will forever remember and treasure the legacy of Hugo Chavez Frias. We will remember his visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the outpouring of support he received from a grateful nation. May he rest in peace.

the IDB/CDB Task Force recommendations for effectively integrating the Vincentian economy into the global economy. Our Party accepts the Six Development issues identified as: Competitiveness, Appropriate Macro-Economic Environment, Governance, Capital Mobility, Rising Poverty levels and; Vulnerability to natural disaster.

In pursuit of the above, we commend the International Labour Organisation (ILO) recommendations concerning the general conditions to stimulate job creation in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

We identify the more salient features as: Recognizing the need for the pursuit of the economic, social and spiritual well-being and development of individuals, families, communities and nations; Being aware of the importance of job creation in small and mediumsized enterprises; Noting that small and medium-sized enterprises, as a critical factor in economic growth and development, are increasingly responsible for the creation of the majority of jobs throughout the world, and can help create an environment for innovation and entrepreneurship; Understanding the special value of productive, sustainable and quality jobs; Recognizing that small and mediumsized enterprises provide the potential for women and other traditionally disadvantaged groups to gain access under better conditions to productive, sustainable and quality employment opportunities.

As such, we will seek to adopt measures which will promote the fundamental role that small and medium-sized enterprises can play as regards: The promotion of full, productive and freely chosen employment; Greater access to income earning opportunities and wealth creation leading to productive and sustainable employment; Sustainable economic growth and the ability to react with flexibility to changes; Increased economic participation of disadvantaged and marginalized groups in society; Increased domestic savings and investment; Training and development of human resources; Balanced regional and local development; Provision of goods and services which are better adapted to local market needs; Access to improved quality of work and working conditions which may contribute to a better quality of life, as well as allow large numbers of people to have access to social protection; Stimulating innovation, entrepreneurship, technology development and research.

In order to create an environment conducive to growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises the NDP will: Adopt and pursue appropriate fiscal, monetary and economic policies to promote an optimal economic environment; Improve the attractiveness of entrepreneurship by avoiding policy and legal measures which disadvantage those who wish to become entrepreneurs; Provide for all enterprises, whatever their size or type equal opportunity as regards, in particular to access credit; Promote observance by small and medium-sized enterprises of international labour standards related to child labour; Remove constraints to the development and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, arising in particular from: difficulties in accessing capital markets, low levels of technical and managerial skills, inadequate information, low levels of productivity and quality, insufficient access to markets; Inappropriate, inadequate or overly burdensome registration, licensing, reporting and other administrative requirements, including those which are disincentives to the hiring of personnel, without prejudicing the level of conditions of employment, the effectiveness of labour inspection or the system of supervision of working conditions and related issues; and Include specific measures and incentives aimed at assisting and upgrading the

informal sector to become part o the organized sector.

Development of an Enterprise Culture The New Democratic Party will adopt measures drawn up in consultation with the most representative organizations of employers and workers, to create and strengthen an enterprise culture which favors initiatives, enterprise creation, productivity, environmental consciousness, quality, good labour and industrial relations, and adequate social practices which are equitable. We will actively be engaged in: Pursuing the development of entrepreneurial attitudes, through the system and programmes of education, entrepreneurship and training linked to job needs and the attainment of economic growth and development, with particular emphasis being given to the importance o good labour relations and the multiple vocational and managerial skills need by small and medium-sized enterprises; Seeking, through appropriate means, to encourage a more positive attitude towards risk taking and business failure by recognizing their value as a learning experience while at the same time recognizing their impact on both entrepreneurs and workers; Encouraging a process of lifelong learning for all categories of workers and entrepreneurs; Designing and implementing, with full involvement of organizations of employers and workers concerned, awareness campaigns to promote: respect for the rule of law and workers’ rights, better working conditions, higher productivity and improved quality of goods and services - entrepreneurial role models and award schemes, taking due account of the specific needs of women, and of disadvantaged and marginalized groups; Creation of linkages between national and international bodies and institutions that are involved in the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, including organizations of employers and workers, in order to facilitate exchange of staff, experience and ideas, establishment of international partnerships and alliances of small and medium-sized enterprises, subcontracting arrangements and other commercial linkages.

The measures that have been identified to support small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) are: 1. To improve the Institutional Support System; 2. To facilitate accessibility to financing; 3. To upgrade technological skills; 4. To enhance market access; 5.

To promote the greater usage of information and communication technology; 6. Develop a competitive advantage within the framework of the CSME; 7. To increase awareness of product branding and protection of Intellectual Property Rights.

In promoting and upgrading SMEs, efforts will be intensified to assist entrepreneurs to improve their skills in Business management, Information and Communications Technology, Research and Development, Product Development, Marketing, and Strategic Alliances.

To enable SMEs in rural industries to penetrate external markets, efforts to enhance their competitiveness will be introduced and effectively implemented.

SMEs in rural industry processing will use appropriate technology, acquire quality accreditation and upgrade market promotion by establishing links with corporate and international clients.

The NDP will initiate the strategic concept of “one district, one industry.”

Development planning and strategic land usage via zoning will be implemented through public consultation as a basis for ensuring optimal location of activities.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 11.

Views

To ask without shame “Pity the sorrows of a poor old man, whose trembling limbs have borne him to your door, whose days are dwindled to the shortest span; Oh give relief, and Heaven will bless your store.” - Thomas Moss (1740-1808) IT SOMETIMES SEEMS like such an unpleasant task to go shopping in the areas where “beggars” appear to congregate. The entrance to several fast food outlets and supermarkets appear to be most unpleasant for some shoppers/customers when it is realised that outstretched hands, gaping mouths, empty faces, and beckoning eyes await those seeking to enter or exit such business premises. And while we may conclude that many of these “vagrants” can do better, several cannot. Before proceeding, let’s revisit those two words that have been placed in inverted commas – “beggars” and “vagrants”. Be assured that efforts are not being made to affix derogatory thoughts to the individuals that society may so label. But rather to draw attention to the plight that some of our unfortunate citizens now find themselves in. In so many cases, we need not exert too much effort to ascertain what resulted in their poor conditions (and to justify our not lending a helping hand). Many have been battered and bruised by life’s varied body blows, that they have no reservations about asking for a pittance.

And they often do so without shame.

My mother has been a shopkeeper for most of her adult life. At 83 years old, she now slowly glides along the counter as she seeks to attend to the shoppers who still require her services. Many of her former customers have graduated to secure their groceries from air-conditioned supermarkets that have a much wider range of household goods than she offers. But she still has her faithful, regular customers (and friends) who visit from time to time. Not all of them are paying customers. One or two are “vagrants” who will seek her out (usually very early in the morning) for their daily portions of bread and sausage and a glass of mauby. Unfortunately, some neither say “please” nor “thank you” prior to or after receiving their hungerstopping morsels. In her younger days, she would have sought to teach them “good manners and behaviour”.

I recall a youngster once asking her why she was “spoiling them like this”.

After all, most appear to be men who had the strength to work for a living.

Her response was, “You probably don’t know what it means to be hungry.” Hunger had initially prompted them to ask without shame; poverty and despondency having cauterised their sense of dignity.

Some readers may be tempted to conclude, like the youngster referred to at the end of the preceding paragraph, that to give food and drink to persons who appear to have the ability to work is, indeed, spoiling them. I once thought so too.

However, while it is true to say that some such persons are lazy, many of them are unemployable (so to speak).

Some appear to be awaiting some external source to encourage a commitment to physical cleanliness and a reprogramming of the mind to develop more responsible attitudes and behaviours. And while I am tempted to advance some views in

relation to a variety of strategies that can be contemplated to achieve this desirable outcome, forgive me for returning to the topic at hand with a commitment to dedicating a subsequent article to the exploration of ways in which we (you and I) can intercept some of these unfortunate members of our society. It may not be as difficult as we think.

There are a host of reasons why some individuals may be reduced to the task of begging for their daily food. They are not all lazy and “badminded”. Many who are on the breadline would have been exposed to a series of unfortunate physical, mental or emotional problems that significantly reduce their chances of gaining or retaining employment.

Others may have experimented with drugs that created “vast neurological chasms” that prevent them from performing “normal” thought functions. Many were encouraged by “friends” who promised that the “expedition” would take them to new heights; and now they are forever soaring in an imaginary world that robs them of reality; reducing them to a shell of an existence; a mirage of a way of life that has resulted in them floating from day to day, begging for survival, stripped of their dignity and asking without shame. And so, we send a strong word of caution to those who presently have their “normal faculties” but may be contemplating experimenting with drugs. We also warn those who may have already commenced the journey but now need to make a stop — a clean break before it is too late.

It is commendable to learn about those unfortunate individuals who were not so far gone or who found persons to believe that they can make the break and have a second chance.

They have weathered the storms of life and move in the direction of making ends meet; crafting a better life for themselves and their loved ones. Some have sought and obtained financial and/or material assistance to commence a variety of small projects in craft, music, agriculture, animal husbandry, and a host of other money-making activities. Others have contemplated that they do have skills that, with a little help, enable them to generate income. Many of these industrious citizens were initially hesitant to ask for assistance via small loans or grants. However, they swallowed their pride and learned how to ask without shame.

These now become models that encourage and inspire others to do likewise. Rather than “beg for a fish,” they have learned the value of “learning to fish”. They know that they can start small and, with good management and a good customer base, their businesses can grow over time. And so, we contemplate which of these weary and weather-beaten travellers we will be fortunate to intercept and provide with new hope when they approach us having learned to ask without shame.

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

James Mitchell’s love fest with himself POLITICIANS, especially those who make it to the very top, are like prize fighters. They seem not to know when to leave the ring of engagement. Initially, we thought James Mitchell was an exception when he handpicked Arnhim Eustace to lead the New Democratic Party in 2000. We have known for some time now that Mitchell did not want to walk away graciously. Having sealed his party’s electoral defeat with the passage of the ‘greedy bill’ in June 2000, he simply wanted to escape the political ‘cut ass’ of his life at the polls.

Elections were called in March of 2001, and Arnhim Eustace took the first of three thrashings, courtesy Ralph Gonsalves. But how many times must Mitchell call for Arnhim Eustace to go? He has played this Road March song so often that it has now become suspect. Some argue that Mitchell is a ULP foil called upon to sledge Eustace, every time Gonsalves appears to be on the ropes.

But nothing could be further from the truth. Mitchell’s entire career has been characterized by political opportunism. His actions have less to do with how the nation might benefit.

James Mitchell is for and about James Mitchell. Mitchell harbours neither love nor hatred for Gonsalves or Eustace. He wants to be the big dog, the king maker, forever calling the shots.

You don’t believe me! Look at how seamlessly he fitted into the Arnhim Eustace NDP led anti-referendum campaign. Reflect on how relentlessly he campaigned for the Arnhim Eustace’s NDP in the last general elections. A victorious campaign would have elevated Mr. Eustace to the pinnacle of political power.

Mitchell would have claimed that his strategic power propelled Eustace to the ‘throne,’ and then extract a big political prize for his effort. For Mitchell, it’s all about limelight.

Still not convinced? During the last elections campaign, Mitchell likened Gonsalves to a barking dog that constantly attempts to piss on the tire of a moving car. Immediately after his party lost, his love fest with Eustace’s NDP ended. He effortlessly waltzed across the political aisle and offered the Amajaro cocoa project to Gonsalves.

To his eternal shame, he did not have the political decency to hint his intention to the leaders of the party he founded. He wanted shock effect.

He wanted to be the breaking news.

The time has long passed when Vincentians should understand the mind of Mitchell. Stop crediting him with genius.

Mitchell made news when he said ‘my marina will always have more ships than Gonsalves’ airport.’ The sound bite is just that: noise.

Deconstructed, it is really a diversion from the real issues having to do with the Ottley Hall fiasco. The real story about the marina is not whether the project was good, needed or potentially feasible. Mitchell locked SVG into a project that cost the nation $185 million. It was valued no

more than $10 million. To get out from under that debt, the country paid $16 million. Our journalists continually let Mitchell off the hook.

Have him explain this fact rather than dotingly smile when he utters nonsense.

We do not mean to imply that nothing Mitchell says makes sense.

We simply question his motive, and concluded long ago that his restless soul is continuously in search of attention. Mitchell beats up on Eustace at every turn. If he is truly in search of relevance, he should turn his tongue on the rest of the party’s leadership.

Why would a party allow a leader, who has brought them three consecutive defeats, to remain at the helm unchallenged? Is this not a clear sign that the NDP is not ready for the ‘heavy lifting’ necessary to cope in these challenging times? Blind loyalty is for an era long past.

One would have thought that at least one of the party’s cardinals, emboldened by St Clair Leacock’s correct assessment ‘our party is in need of fresh legs,’ would have challenged for leadership. Perhaps they await the pope’s resignation? But fear is not a quality of a leader.

What can be said of Eustace? Why has he refused to step aside, thus freeing and forcing his supporters to look past him for the next leader?

There’s no country in the world where a leader loses three consecutive times and remains at the helm. Even when leaders are winning, there is a movement to limit them to two terms.

What feeds Eustace’s insatiable drive to become prime minister? He will be past 70 years by the 2015 elections. Would he, at such advanced age, possess the physical and mental vigor to steer the ship of state? Are his more ardent supporters not doing him and his family a disservice by insisting that he remains as leader?

Mitchell believes that his advanced age has earned him the right to say anything. Maybe it has. And so, he says Dwight Venner, the governor of the Central Bank, should go. We agree, but not for the reasons on which Mitchell premised his argument. He says Venner should intervene in the financial debacle that has rocked our region since the collapse of BAICO and CLICO in 2009.

But ‘poor’ Venner does not possess the power, resources or machinery to positively impact the Caribbean economy as Ben Bernanke, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, or Mario Draghi, President of the European Central Bank. Venner has been Governor for more than 20 years. The time for new blood and fresh minds has arrived.

Mitchell should take the advice he offers to Venner. Go quietly.

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

V

12. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

New Property Tax Act: Poor black people will be going to jail UNDER SECTION 35 OF THE PROPERTY TAX ACT ‘IMPRISONMENT FOR FAILURE TO OBEY ORDERS’ - people who do not pay can go to jail for a long time. We know the white super-rich of Mustique and Canouan are not going to jail because they are exempt, so it will be poor black people going to jail.

In SVG, we have a naked apartheid system.

The white super-rich of Mustique and Canouan are given tax and customs duty exemptions. They can buy lands, planes and yachts, for instance, worth tens of millions of dollars, and not pay one cent in tax.

In contrast, if a poor

black person buys a pair of shoes, they have to pay tax. This is blatant wickedness.

Many poor households cannot afford electricity, cannot afford mains water, cannot afford school fees, struggle to feed their families and suffer under the ULP regime’s cruel VAT. Unemployment is high, and people struggle to make a dollar, and now the ULP regime wants to punish people more with another tax — Property Tax. It is poor black people who will suffer the most.

Under this new tax, the ULP regime is going to harass poor black people for money, and when they can’t pay, throw

them in jail, sell poor black people’s houses, and make them and their children homeless.

In the period of segregation, they used to burn down black people’s homes in the southern states of the USA to drive them out. This new Klu Klux Klan-style property tax legislation will persecute poor black people and force them out of their homes, if they cannot pay under section 39. It will not touch the white superrich of Mustique and Canouan.

Mustique — with the airport, properties and lands — is properly worth at least $7 billion, yet the white super-rich will not pay one cent in

(annual) property tax.

Poor black people face jail if they can’t pay property tax. This apartheid is immoral, and the property tax discrimination is unconstitutional.

It is wrong that poor black people will live in fear of being thrown in jail, while the white super-rich of Canouan and Mustique can sip champagne by the swimming pool all day long, knowing that they are exempt from property tax.

SVG Green Party calls on the Mustique Charity to pay all poor black people’s property tax to stop poor black people from going to jail.

The days of apartheid

in SVG are numbered. Rosa Parks was instrumental in killing racial segregation in the USA, Nelson Mandela was prominent in the protests that killed apartheid in South Africa, and SVG Green Party will kill the apartheid tax system in SVG. Gonsalves should be the last person to introduce laws that send people to jail for failure to obey orders. The SVG Director of Audit gave orders to the SVG Minister of Finance to reconcile the government overdraft account at the National Commercial Bank to avoid killing the NCB. Gonsalves did not

obey the orders from the Director of Audit, but instead pushed up his government overdraft in 2008 to $185 million and killed the NCB. Should Gonsalves be brought to the High Court to answer for failing to obey an order from the Director of Audit?

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org Editor’s note: House owners in Mustique pay the Alien Landholding Tax and the ‘Sales Tax’ on land /property of 5%.

They pay no duty on construction materials but pay all other duties (e.g. duty on motor vehicles)

Evaluation of ECCB Eight-Point Strategic Plan needed now ACCORDING TO AN ARTICLE in the SEARCHLIGHT Newspaper of Feb 1st 2013, after four years of economic decline, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is regarded

by Sir Dwight Venner as being “at a tipping point which will require our sustained and collective efforts, to get our economies on the path to growth and development.”

The article, which was written by KENTON CHANCE, went on to say that last year (2012), the sub-region’s GDP is estimated to have declined by 0.1 percent, and that this compared to an average of 2.2 percent annually from 2009 to 2011.

The article quotes Sir Dwight as saying, “This out-turn reflected lower

Sir Dwight Venner, Governor of the ECCB, has called for a clear vision for the ECCU, but one that must come from among the citizens and communities of the OECS.

output in key sectors such as construction, transport, storage and communications and sluggish growth in the tourism industry.”

Sir Dwight also said that “Value added by the construction sector contracted Some of those responsible for framing the Eight Point Stabilization and Growth Plan. by 5.6 percent, following an region could have been stimulated vision must emerge from among our average decline of 13.3 percent in the with the injection of substantial funds citizens and communities and must previous three years.” into the Tourism, Construction and state how we would like to see our For us in St. Vincent, the haunting Fishing sectors. It was unbelievably countries in the future.” questions are: immature to expect to impact the I support fully those sentiments 1) Where are we in relation to the economy at that stage, in St. Vincent expressed by Sir Dwight. In a cusp of the economic take off? and the Grenadines in particular, democracy, it should never appear that 2) Who reaped or are reaping the while leaving out Agriculture from the the citizen is treated with indifference. promised harvest? big Eight Point Stabilization and At this stage, therefore, there is the The assessment of our situation by Growth Plan. This may not be the urgent need for a detailed and Sir Dwight does not really surprise time to list the items which seem to comprehensive evaluation of that many of us, for we have been aware of characterize disdain for the farming Eight Point Stabilization and Growth the stagnation of the economy for some community — even by those who have Plan. Until we have the details on time; the signs, after all, were all asked for the privilege to serve. which we can arrive at a around us.

Sir Dwight is reported to have said determination as to why the Plan What is clear to us now, is that the that in charting the way forward for failed, it would be fickle to attempt to much touted Eight Point Stabilization the ECCU to better cope with the set parameters to effect our dream for and Growth Plan has failed miserably. challenges which it now faces, it is the ECCU in 2027.

This plan was the brainchild of the critical that a clear vision for the Senior Government Ministers and the ECCU be agreed on. He said, “This Leroy Providence Leading technocrats of the subregion. In that plan, they calculated that the economy of the sub-

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 13.

Red House is G.S.SÊ 2013 Dance & Cheerleading Champs

understands, were the fruits of the collaborative IT MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN efforts of two young Georgetown Secondary dancers turn School’s finest production choreographers — Selreen of its number one ‘Swooshbomb Nortic’ fundraiser event, but the Gibson of the Suhpreem upset which resulted from Dream Team and its Annual Dance and Nanthan Campbell of Cheerleading Competition, Top Secret Dancers. on Friday 22nd February, “They did better than was major. we expected … they were Defending Champs, making a lot of mistakes Yellow House, was put during practice but on notice from the get go luckily they pulled it off as Green House signalled on stage,” Swooshbomb its intention to lay claim said after hearing that to the 2013 reign. For their three weeks of hard their efforts, the Green work did pay off.

Team were awarded top In addition to the points in the Cheer Cheer and Set Dance category, registering an Piece, each House was early 71.3 points on the expected to present an judges’ scorecards. Its Original Dance Piece. closet rival, the Red House swept up incumbent and first to some 69.3 points to win appear in all three both that category as rounds, mustering some well as the overall 5.6 points less.

Competition with a 15.6 Round Two, though, (total points) lead over clearly belonged to Red Yellow House; the House. The 2012 Cheer reigning Champs must Champs came out of now settle for second their corner with higher place with 207 total energy levels than was points. obvious in the first round, but that was not Reflections on the enough to dissuade the performances judges from awarding the highest score Speaking on the throughout the lacklustre performance competition — 94.0 points that pervaded the first - to the Red Challengers. round of the show, G.S.S The pieces performed Teacher Fiona Antoine by the champions, THE tells us “… It was a bit VINCENTIAN shaky in the beginning

by JP SCHWMON

as the performance quality lapsed. We have seen better performances over the years, but I think rehearsals were somewhat rushed because the school was forced to pull forward the date for our Annual Athletics Competitions due to changes made at the Ministry of Education… so that might have been a major factor.”

Meanwhile, recently appointed Principal Ronald Clarke’s fears have been mollified, having taken his first steps into what was for him, virgin territory. “I heard a lot about this Competition, especially in its preparatory stages, and I must admit I was a little uneasy because having not experienced it before, I did not know what to expect. So I decided to wait and see, and I am satisfied that there were no overt displays of vulgarity; and the general public behaved admirably too,” he said of the seven-yearold event which was hosted at the school’s auditorium.

The new Principal was so impressed that he was inspired to make some minor changes to the school’s timetable so as

to include dance on the list of subjects offered “In fact,” he said “I am happy to The Red House Champions Dance and Cheerleaders. have seen such wide array of talent because it fits into one vision we have for the school which is to introduce dance as part of the Arts and Humanities curriculum.

Dance, I believe, has a great prospect as an extra-curricular activity, but we’d be exploring opportunities to offer basic dance in the classroom… that way our students would be ably prepared for entry in the various dance events like the KCCU’s Annual Dance Fest and so on.”

The Dance and (8 OR 5 CFM), Cheerleading GET A ONE QUART VACUMM PUMP OIL Competition was immediately preceded by GSS’ Road Relay which ............................................................................... saw Yellow House snatching up that first place title in both the male and female categories. Red House, (1/10 - 1/3 HP) though, was adjudged top House overall after GET AN ACCESS VALVE AND the school’s Annual A SMALL FILTER DRIER Athletics Meet, held on Tuesday 26th February.

BUY A VACUUM PUMP

FREE

BUY A FRACTIONAL HP COMPRESSOR

FREE

.........................................................................................

BUY TEN (10) LARGE FILTER DRIERS

GET ONE (1) SMALL FILTER DRIERS

FREE

...............................................................................

Left: Yellow House tried their best to repeat as Champions.

BUY ONE (1) R410A REFRIGERANT GAS (25LB)

GET A 410A ADAPTER

FREE

The Blue House contingent added some ‘flex’ to the rountine.

Green House dancers in a contemplative mood.

Vigie Highway, Arnos Vale, P.O. Box 353, Kingstown, St. Vincent

V

14. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

President Hugo Chavez will be remembered as a charismatic and robust president who took a deliberate option in favour of the poor and marginalized.

Thousands converged on the coffin as it worked its way to the military academy where the funeral service was held.

Hugo Chavez gets D KHUR¶V VHQG RII HUGO RAFAEL CHAVEZ FRIAS, President of Venezuela for the last fourteen years, was laid to rest, Friday 8th March, 2013.

The president had succumbed to cancer the previous Tuesday after being first diagnosed with the disease in 2011.

Thousands of Venezuelans, dressed in red, thronged the funeral procession and showered the coffin with flowers as the hearse, with the casket on its roof, wormed its way through the streets of Caracas.

Many threw flowers, others wept openly and unapologetically for the man who they considered had brought positive change to their lives and opened Venezuela to closer ties with Latin America and the Caribbean.

Thousands more watched the funeral ceremony, held at a military academy where Chavez has been lying in state, on huge monitors under the blazing sun.

The funeral service began with Venezuela's national youth orchestra singing the national anthem. A government-allied congressman belted out songs from President Chavez’s native Barinas state.

As this obtained, the streets in Caracas took on a carnival atmosphere with military bands launching into marches. Many of the thousands, already decked in their red, sought to purchase replicas of the presidential sash as though to complete their outfits.

In the funeral hall, over 30 heads of states and political leaders, including Cuba’s Raul Castro, Iran’s Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and SVG’s Dr. Ralph

Gonsalves, stood at attention before President Chavez’s flag-draped coffin, which was closed for the ceremony.

Nicolas Maduro, President Chavez’s hand-picked successor, eulogized the deceased leader at the military academy.

His voice boomed as he pledged eternal loyalty.

“Here we are, Comandante, your men, on their feet ... loyal until beyond death,” Maduro shouted, beckoning government officials to rise.

This expression captures the sentiment which President “Chavez lives!” he declared. “Mission accomChavez’s death aroused. plished!”

But all was not peace and harmony in a country still divided even after Chavez’s 14 years in power. who said: “If my Comandante was such a divisive The opposition coalition announced it would man who fought with everyone and with other boycott Maduro’s swearing-in later that Friday at the countries, wouldn’t he be alone (at his funeral)?” same military academy, calling it unconstitutional.

Venezuelan opposition leader Henrique Capriles told media personnel that the opposition had asked to attend Chavez's funeral, but was told "better that you don't come."

Capriles is expected to challenge Maduro for the presidential seat in an election mandated within 30 days of the Presdeint’s (Chavez) death.

Meanwhile, Maduro, the country’s acting president, says Hugo Chavez's embalmed body will be permanently displayed in a glass casket so that "his people will always have him."

Vice President Nicolas Maduro says the remains will be put on permanent display at the Museum of the Revolution, close to the presidential palace where Chavez ruled for 14 years.

Regardless of the political fallout from the death of Vice President Nicolas Maduro placed a golden Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias, last Friday’s sword on the casket — a symbol of Latin American overwhelming sentiment was best revolutionary Simon Bolivar, whose philosophy represented by a bookseller in Caracas, and politics influenced the late president.

Leaders from just about every country in Latin America, some from the Caribbean and even a delegation from the US, turned It was a much a period of solemnity as it was a celebration for a man who is credited with out for the funeral of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez. having brought immense improvement in the lives of ordinary Venezuelans.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 15.

Feature

Photos and story contributed by: DONALD DE RIGGS THERE ARE SEVERAL MORE eminent persons whose lives the late Norma Keizer would have impacted on positively, but I hasten to share my own experience with this quiet giant with an unassuming personality. That was Norma Keizer.

I was one of several teachers ‘fired’ for my active involvement in the 1975 Teachers’ strike, following which I decided to pursue a career in photography and actually ran Foto’s Photo Studio for four years before I was summoned to the classroom duties again. I used to be commissioned to take pictures of all classes for the GHS magazine, and one day Norma asked me to come and teach subject French at the GHS, a subj ject I had Span-taught previously, along with w Span ish, at Bishop’s College. However, H my forte was Geography, so I told about her that I would think abo out it. without After two weeks withou ut a response from me, Mrs. Keizer K called decision. to inquire about my decisi ion She ion. impressed that the school was in dire need of a French teacher for f the lower forms. In fact, she was w filling the void while having to attend a to administrative her regular administrativ ve duties.

Staff, S ta aff, fff, p past as st and pre p present re esent nt s students, tud dent nts ts, s, we wellwishers gathered compound w ishers rs ga gat atthere re ed at tthe he e GHS c omp pound on o tthe he e mo morning orning o off T Tuesday, uesday ay, y Fe Febr February ruarry 2 26, 6, 20 2013, 013 3, to bid fa fare rew ewe well to o Nor rma Ke Keiz ize zer. r farewell Norma Keizer.

That was the degree of confidence Mrs. Keizer had in me as a student teacher.

At the same time, Bertram ‘Timmy’ Richards also wanted a Geography teacher for the fifth formers preparing for GCE. So, when Mrs. Keizer called a third time to find out if I had made up my mind, I told her, “Yes, but to teach Geography at the Intermediate High School (IHS).” We both laughed and she wished me well.

Those were good wishes as my m students The mood was w somber somber, r, even among the t younger students who would not have interacted d had 100% passes p for directly with h Mrs. Keizer Keizer..

Geography GCE in Geo ography that remained year. I rem mained at the IHS for onee year, alongside teachers communication skills were w also well up tears that flowed easily on Ellsworth like Ellswo orth “Shake” Keane, known, and I opted to jjoin oin the GIS, hearing about the wonderful Layne, achievements Freddy Lay yne, now a medical doctor, now the API, where thee salary was achievem ments of this fine lady. entered before I ent tered the Teachers much better, in fact, 33 33.3% 3.3% better, as When n one looks around the GHS S College College. the official photographe photographer er cum compoun compound, nd her mark is indelibly lef nd, left ft journalist for the gover government, rnment, a job in concre concrete, ete, blocks and equipment, Renewing contact that brought me into ev every very home she havi ing struggled against the having that had a TV. odds to have h a science lab and hard d I gradua graduated ated from the Teachers When the ‘Searchlig ‘Searchlight’ ght’ newspaper court bu uilt. But that was not all. built.

Keizer College butt my photographic and began with Norma Keiz zer at the The GHS S Steel Orchestra has grace graced ed helm, I was a reg regular gular contribu contribu-the stagee at the Victoria Park for tor to that and ot other her local Junior Panorama P competitions, and d papers under the nom de has comee away winners on several plume, ‘Small Ax Axe’. e’. She never occasion ns. That orchestra was the occasions. turned down any of my brainchi ild of Norma Keizer; one of brainchild articles, and woul would ld occasion occasion-my daug ghters being one of the firstt daughters ally ll send d me a ch cheque, h heque, which hi h I pannists i ts in i that th t steel t l orchestra. h t would either polit politely tely return or More can be said, but others no never cash. If I was w the only doubt wi ill add to the wonderful will mosaic that t depicts the fulsome lifee photographer at a public function, I would supply her of Norm a Keizer.

Norma and other papers with a story and picture pictures, s, as I understood the im importance mportance of letting the pub public blic know what was happen ning happening locally, a habit st still ill prac prac-tised.

Farewell

The Resource Centre bea bears Keizer. ars the name of Norma Keiz zer. It was under her watch watch that the Centre was realized.

The farewell sservice ervice held on the GHS compound on Tuesday, Febr February ruary 26, was an emotionall experi experi-ence for me.

I visited the tu tuck uck shop twice for paper to towels, owels, not but to wipe sweat, bu ut to mop

Even the butte buttercups ercups on the school’ school’s s com commpound, had a special s bloom about them as if to say they to oo had come to bid farewe ell too farewell to a stalwart.

V

16. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Tourism

Bequia delegation on whale watching mission ON TUESDAY MARCH 12TH 2013 a team of persons from the whaling community in Bequia, including a seasoned whaler man, left St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the Dominican Republic to get a firsthand experience of whale watching.

The members of the team are Gaston Bess, Javan Stowe, Alicia Lavia, Richard Ollivierre and head of the mission, Ms Kari Da Silva.

Gaston Bess was part of many whale hunts and was part of a team that would have landed about 8 whales over the years.

Stowe’s father is an active whaler. Richard Ollivierre and Alicia Lavia both have close relatives in the whaling business, and are both active members of the Bequia Traditional Sailing Academy, which uses old whale boats to teach Bequia’s traditional

A whale makes quite a sight off the coast of the Dominican Republic where whale watch is an encouraged tourist attraction.

Left: Swimming with the whales in the waters of the Dominican Republic.

sailing techniques to youngsters.

The head of mission Ms Kari Da Silva has just been assigned the role to head the special new unit set up in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation and Industry, and commissioned to promote the linkages between Agriculture, Fisheries and Tourism.

whale watching regulations and in whale watching marketing and economics. They will also have two free days to simply explore the beauty of the Dominican Republic.

The invitation for whalers and community The visit of the team is Ministry of the members from Bequia to part of a St. Vincent and Environment and Natural visit the Dominican the Grenadines National Resources of the Republic was extended to Trust initiative to promote Dominican Republic.

St. Vincent and the whale watching on the While there, the team will Grenadines at the meeting island of Bequia, experience three different of the International traditionally known for whale watching trips, in Whaling Commission in whale hunting. different parts of the Panama last year, which The team will be hosted Sanctuary and in different was attended by National in the Dominican Republic types of boats, including Trust Chairperson, Louise

by Mr Peter Sanchez, the the small boats of the Mitchell Joseph.

Administrator of the Carenero Village. They Mr Peter Sanchez has Dominican Republic will receive training in indicated that he awaits Marine Whale Sanctuary, and facilitated by the

the team with great excitement and that he has passed on the great news to the Buenos Aires group that he will be hosting the St. Vincent and the Grenadines team.

Whale watching is big business in most Latin countries with coastlines, which all eagerly support St. Vincent and the Grenadines embracing the conservation of whales.

The team returns to St. Vincent on March 19th 2013. On March 20th at the National Trust headquarters at 10 am, members of the media would be invited to hear of their experience. (Source: SVG National Trust)

SVG: Once discovered, never forgotten

by BEN HARRISON International Correspondent THE PACIFIC & ORIENT (P & O) Cruise Lines ship ‘Azura’ treated its over3000 passengers to a memorable visit to St. Vincent on Tuesday March 12th.

The three-year-old Azura is currently on a 14-day cruise in the Eastern Caribbean. It is one of the largest ships in the P & O fleet, weighing in at 115,000 tons. It is 290 meters (950 feet) in length, has 1557 cabins and can accommodate almost 3600 passengers with a crew of 1200.

THE VINCENTIAN interviewed several passengers on Tuesday afternoon, who were sunning and swimming at Villa Beach. Without exception, they all enthusiastically praised the

beauty, safety and friendliness of the paradise they discovered in St. Vincent.

With the Argyle International Airport well on its way to completion, the positive impact of tourism and the revenue it brings to the island cannot be underestimated.

We all have a responsibility to proudly welcome all visitors to this little known jewel of the Caribbean, because “Once discovered, it will never be forgotten”.

The ‘Azura’ berthed at the Kingstwon Cruise Ship facility.

Inset: Hundreds of the ‘Azura’s’ passengers spent the day at the Villa beach.

V Georgetown man on mission to give back to SVG

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. 17.

Diaspora

see there are a lot of things we can do in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and we’re A BRONX, New York-based Georgetown looking forward to doing man says he’s on a mission to aid his much, much more. homeland by giving back at all costs – “For instance, we’ll medically, educationally and otherwise – like to touch on all for the rest of his life. different sectors — Robert McBarnett, 53, a Spiritual medically, educationally Baptist, originally from Dickson Village, and so on,” said the Georgetown in North Central Windward president of St. Matthias — who has been furnishing medical, Charities, Inc., educational and personal supplies to a disclosing that his small number of medical clinics, the Milton church group also plans Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) in to establish shortly a Kingstown, the Georgetown Hospital and scholarship fund for ordinary nationals — said he will underprivileged children continue doing so until God draws his in St. Vincent and the last breath.

Grenadines.

“I see myself doing this for the rest of my life,” McBarnett, who has been How it all began and since working as an aide in the Environmental then Service Department at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in the Bushwick section McBarnett, who of Brooklyn, New York since 1994, told migrated to New York in THE VINCENTIAN in an exclusive 1980, said his fervent interview. interest, in helping his “I believe we’re all called to serve, and native land, intensified that’s what we’re trying to do,” added three years ago after McBarnett, who, with his wife, Sharon, participating in a and Dickson native Joan Moore, a crusade at home with registered nurse who lives in Queens, members of the St. Jude New York, recently formed the St. Baptist Church on Matthias Charities, Inc., named after the Bristol Street in the St. Matthias Baptist Church in Dickson Brownsville section of Village that was founded by McBarnett’s Brooklyn. late grandfather, Archbishop Percival He said the team, at Dick. the time, conducted container shipped again by Square Deal “We’re servants trying to serve those worship services at the Market Square Shippers and Movers — which comprised who’re less fortunate,” he continued. “We in Kingstown, Sion Hill and Dickson, medical supplies and equipment for the and distributed food items to less MCMH, such as x-ray view box; fortunate communities. duplicator and film bin; and a “After we did that — that same year — US$100,000 endoscopy/colonoscopy I donated a wheel chair to Georgetown machine, donated by Dr. Vijay Arya, a Hospital; and, when I came back physician at Wycoff Heights Medical (returned to New York), I wanted to do Center, and his foundation. more,” McBarnett said.

In addition, McBarnett said, among So, in April last year, he said he and others, wheel chairs, crutches, canes, his wife — with support from wellcommodes, bath chairs, pampers, food wishers, such as New York merchant supplies and clothes were distributed to Ronald Chase, who furnishes clothes, residents of Fancy, Owia, Overland and shoes and other supplies, and Sandy Bay in North Windward; Dickson; US$10,000.00 out of the couple’s pockets Stubbs; Union Island in the Southern — shipped a container of supplies home Grenadines; Barrouallie and Buccament with the Brooklyn-based Square Deal Shippers and Movers.

McBarnett said the supplies — including clothes, books, foodstuff, blood pressure and diabetic monitors with testing strips, walkers, crutches, canes and pampers — were distributed to residents in Overland (North Windward), Stubbs (South Windward) and Dickson.

The Spiritual Baptist said he returned home last month to distribute a Robert McBarnett ensures that this larger shipment of gentleman gets a pair of crutches supplies — a 40-ft. long A happy trio –recipients of school supplies. which should improve his mobility.

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

Robert McBarnett, President of St. Matthias Charities Inc., says he is a servant trying to serve those who are less fortunate.

Left: Just a small quantity of what St. Matthias Charities Inc. has made available to the people of SVG. Bay in Central Leeward; and Vermont and Pembroke in South Leeward.

He said the group plans to make good on its pledge to “take care of” North Leeward and the Grenadines, including the Chateaubelair Hospital, during its next visit either later this year or early next year.

Looking to the future Currently, McBarnett said the group is planning a fundraiser for June 22 at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn.

He said funds raised at that event will go towards, among other things, the purchase of a bronchoscope for the MCMH, which is expected to cost over US$10,000.

[A bronchoscope is a device used to see the inside of the airways and lungs.

Bronchoscopy is a test to view the airways and diagnose lung disease.

It may also be used during the treatment of some lung conditions].

Stubbs native and MCMH physician Dr. Lennox Adams is the group’s local medical contact.

“People are really enthused about what we do,” McBarnett said. “People say ‘thank you’ for what we’re doing for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“We will like to thank all the folks who supported us and continue to support us, like co-workers, fellow West Indians, Vincentians, Square Deal Shippers and Movers, Mr. Chase, and Dr. Arya and his foundation,” he added.

“This wouldn’t be possible without everyone on board.

“This is something I always wanted to do — to give back to the less fortunate in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” continued McBarnett, disclosing that the group also plans to extend its service to Grenada “in the not too distant future.”

V

18. FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

International WomenÊs Day Message 2013 THEME: ÂWomen in Action for the Development of Our Nation‰

and that my soul knoweth right well”.

We applaud the women for their tenacity, strength, determination to succeed and survive the many challenges they face each day. The trafficking of women and children, violence against women and children in the home, incest and rape, single teenage mothers, exposure to and the scourge of HIV/Aids and other STDs, stigmatization in the work place, unemployment, vulnerability, The statement of the First National Congress of Women held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is calling on the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to address the concerns of: THE NATIONAL COUNCIL Conference of 1995. ● Gender EquityOF WOMEN OF ST. On this widely VINCENT AND THE celebrated International Inculcate gender equity and equality in all GRENADINES salute all Women’s Day, we adopt citizens from childhood to women in St. Vincent and the words of David in adulthood. Through the Grenadines and around Psalms 139:14 “I will gender sensitive school the world. Let us continue give thanks unto thee; curricula, adopt the ‘No to seek the advancement for I am fearfully and child should be left of women and gender wonderfully made: equality as per the Beijing Wonderful are thy works; behind’ policy.

● Economic Development, Trade and Finance- Ensure that all citizens have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary need for a healthy and active life style. ● Peace and security — Facilitate public education and provide training on domestic violence intervention/prevention methods and on /conflict resolution. ● Political participation — strive for the development of a political culture that would allow women in politics to work across party lines to develop issues wherein they find common grounds.

● Health- Promote healthy life styles that will support a decline in sexually transmitted diseases including HIV and Aids. ● Education — Ensure that all sectors of the population are aware of and have access to all available educational avenues. ● General ProvisionsRecognize the role of the church and faith based organizations in promoting gender equity, human rights, peace and security.

We have come this far by faith; Women are standing up, standing out and making a difference. Teenage mothers are returning to the classrooms and excelling academically;

and through commitment and true dedication, women are at the forefront of decision and policy making. We are ‘Women in Action for the Development of our Nation.”

This year, we celebrate International Women’s Day with the theme,” Women in Action for the Development of Our Nation’. As we recognize the woman, let us bind ourselves together to eradicate the ills, and then, let us rededicate our commitment to the development of our families, societies and the world. Women, the Pillars of Our Society.

(We regret that this message was squeezed out of last week’s article.)

IWD activities staged in South Leeward THE ST. ANDREW PARISH CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL of Women, and the Casper/Maria Marshall Centre, (CASMAC) celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD), March 8, with a series of activities in the historic community of Clare Valley, and surrounding villages.

The goal of the activities was to build awareness of the significance of International Women’s Day. The female teachers of the Clare Valley Government School were honoured for their contribution to the growth and development of children attending that school. This was followed by a Seminar on Gender Roles for children of Grade 6 of that school and participants of the Partners of the Americas ‘A GANAR’ Youth Programme.

In seven working groups, the participants identified that, while women had freedom to work, vote, and gain an education, many were still plagued by unemployment, underemployment, teenage pregnancy and domestic violence.

In some cases, the participants

discovered, there were mothers who neglected their children for other interests, especially at night, and many did not have the support of fathers in bringing up their children.

While it was a “giant step” that teen mothers could return to school, participants felt their parents needed to assume more responsibility, to enable them to take advantage of this ‘second chance’.

The participants were of the view that more support services were needed to enable women to arrive at gender equality, as set out in the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Gender Equality — 2005 — 2015.

A highlight of the activities was the distribution of IWD Greeting Cards to the entire School, members of the community, and the Evangelical Church at Upper Questelles, which hosted a Prayer Service on issues affecting women and girls.

The final activity, in collaboration with the Spiritual Baptist Church in Clare Valley, will honour older women.

Students of the Clare Valley Government School in the plenary session of the Seminar on Gender Roles.

V

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

Gold Chain snatcher jailed RASHEED WATSON, A 17YEAR-OLD LABOURER OF GREEN HILL, was jailed for two months this week, after pleading guilty to stealing a gold chain valued $150 Canadian, from Anetha Sergeant, 63, of Fair Hall.

Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Mathias handed down the penalty at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday. She also ordered that Watson pay EC$800 compensation to Sergeant by July 3. In default, Watson will go to prison for eight weeks.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Glenford Gregg, told the court that around 2:30 pm on November 12, 2012, Sergeant was walking in the area of Russell’s Shopping Mall in Stoney Ground, when Watson snatched the gold chain

from her neck and ran.

She gave chase but failed to catch-up with Watson. A passerby also gave chase, caught Watson and called the police. The chain was not recovered.

Watson was said to have several convictions of dishonesty, and was once charged with stealing a wallet from someone’s bag while in Court.

The Magistrate issued a stern warning to him before imposing the penalties. “Not everybody is tolerant, you know, you are very lucky.”

Chain snatching is a trend which has been developing here in recent times. Last year, there were several reports of incidents of this nature.

(HH)

Farmer murdered ELMORE MAPP, a 42-year-old farmer of Gomea, is this country’s latest murder victim.

A police report of March 11 said that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the murder of Elmore Mapp, which occurred at Gomea on March 9.

A postmortem examination is expected to be performed on the body to ascertain the cause of death.

Police also report that they are investigating the cause of death of Dave Williams of Kingstown.

Williams was reportedly involved in an altercation with another man in Kingstown on March 9, when he ran into the road and was involved in a motor vehicle accident.

A post mortem will be conducted on the body on 12.03.13 to ascertain the cause of death.