Vinpages 25 10 13 e reader

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 25, 2013

VOLUME 107, No.43

www.thevincentian.com

PRISON OFFICERS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ESCAPE

That’s according to the findings of a Tribunal, appointed by the Public TWO PRISON OFFICERS who were the Service Commission (PSC), in subjects of proceedings in connection accordance with the Public Service with the November 21, 2011 escape of Regulations. murder accused Godwin Moses from Her Based on the evidence presented at Majesty’s Prison, are not responsible for a hearing which had commenced some Moses’ escape. months ago, the Tribunal concluded that Moses’ escape was not caused by any negligence or misconduct on the part of the two prison officers. A report on the Tribunal’s findings was recently submitted to the PSC. PSC chairman, Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams, made the confirmation when contacted by THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday.

Williams said that, based on the findings of the Tribunal, the PSC made a decision to have the two prison officers return to work. They had been on suspension, with full pay, pending the outcome of the hearing.

Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Ralph Gonsalves had mandated then Assistant Commissioner of Police Michael Charles, now Acting Commissioner, to spearhead investigations into Moses’ Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams, Chairman of escape. the PSC, reported that a Tribunal had The PSC chairman had told THE found that the prison officers were not VINCENTIAN April 23, 2012 that the negligent in carrying out their duties. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Godwin Moses, a murder accused, was shot by police after he escaped from her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown. of National Security had taken preliminary action by informing the PSC of the evidence which had come to light so far. The PSC chairman had disclosed then that disciplinary action proceedings were expected to commence against the two prison officers. A Tribunal was set up to determine whether they were culpable.

The Tribunal was required to submit a report on its findings to the PSC following the Continued on Page 3.

EC$1.50

Vincy accused of conning Tobagonian A 65-YEAR-OLD TAXI-OWNER and operator of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, accused of conning a Tobagonian businesswoman, appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday.

Walcott ‘Roachie’ Haywood of Lodge Village was not required to plead to seven charges of deception, when he stood before Chief Magistrate Sonya Young.

Haywood is charged with obtaining by deception on various occasions between May 3 and June 27, 2013, US and EC currency amounting to approximately EC$100,000 from Marilyn Duke, a 69-year-old businesswoman of Tobago, with the intention of permanently depriving her of it.

The prosecutor did not object to bail, and Haywood was granted bail in the sum of $50,000 on condition that he report to the Central Police Station every Monday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. He was also ordered to surrender his travel documents.

A Preliminary Inquiry is slated for February 27.

Bertram Commissiong Q.C.

2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 3.

News 3 Karib CableÊs Glass resigns THE VINCENTIAN is now able to qualify a certain reference it made in its front page story, ‘Job cuts at Karib Cable’, of October 18, 2013.

We now know that Ms. Tessa Glass, formerly the Human Resource Manager at Karib Cable, with responsibility for Karib Cable holdings in the region, did in fact resign.

It appears though that her resignation may have come as a compromise following what would have been initial efforts to make her position redundant.

This, of course, does not change the focus of the article which reported on a retraction on a previous commitment made by Columbus Communication Inc., new owners of Karib Cable, that there would have been no job cuts at the local operations.

THE VINCENTIAN can also confirm that there have been redundancies and/or resignations across the regional Karib Cable market, with Vincentian Jason Cadette among

those affected in the St. Lucia Operations.

From what THE VINCENTIAN can discern, changes, especially at the top level of the operations, here in St. Vincent and St. Lucia, have preceded those reported in last week’s edition.

Changes here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have involved former General Manager

Len Hornsey and Finance Manager Colin Ollivierre.

In St. Lucia, the General Manager under Karib Cable resigned soon after the acquisition by Columbus Communications Inc., and Glen Storenson, Corporate Sales Manager based in St. Lucia, is no longer with the company.

When THE VINCENTIAN spoke this week with some lower

level employees at Karib Cable, they were obviously concerned about the “new trend,” as one person described it, though some did confirm that they had been reassured about their continued employment.

The new owners of Karib Cable may have legitimate cause for its musical chairs at its top management level, but it remains grounds for concern.

Clearing the air for Baptiste IN OUR EDITION of October 11, 2013, in a story captioned ‘Baptiste outlines party’s planks’ (page 13) , we quoted Mrs. Anesia Baptiste, former NDP Senator and now leader of the Democratic Republican Party, as saying, “I will not have relations with Venezuela and know … human rights abuses of the people.”

Armed now with Mrs. Baptiste’s transcript of the proceeding of her town hall meeting, New York,

Saturday 5th October, at which she made the statement, we now present her statement, and hope that it satisfies her request for a ‘correction’.

Her statement was in response to the question: “If your government should come to power, would you pursue the same ties that the former government had with those countries like Cuba and Venezuela and others?”

Her response: “First of

U N - H E A D L I N E D N E W S

Thief caught “Green-faced”

by GLORIAH...

WHEN 28-YEAR-OLD THIEF, Yafet Askale, broke into a car on 10th June in Harlesden, North London, he had expected to come away only with the ‘goodies’, including a laptop. He was in for a surprise.

Unknowing to him, since June this year, police had been booby-trapping vehicles to catch thieves. In an overall crime reduction strategy designed by SmartWater, the vehicle was equipped with technology that creates automatic updates of theft.

To achieve this, a dye, which is invisible under normal light but shows up as a distinctive emerald green under ultra-violet light, is used as a permanent marker.

The SmartWater system employs devices that can detect intruders and spray them automatically with a fine mist of the substance (dye). The mist contains a combination of chemicals that enables police to link people to a particular incident. The substance is odorless and can remain on the skin for weeks.

Askale was, therefore, caught green-faced instead of red-handed

all, we must recognize that we already have relations with some of those countries...those countries you mentioned and in some cases the relations did not start with the current government. Ok? So, the issue for me, is not so much remaining in relations with them, but it’s what I stand for while in relations with them. So, for example, I will not have relations with, let’s say, Venezuela, and see and hear of known, factual, human rights abuses taking place there and not say anything about it. So, if I were to learn that there were human rights atrocities being committed by the government of Venezuela...I’m just saying if... against their people, I

would write to the leader.

I would say something showing that I do not condone that. I have no personal relationships and friendships with individuals which would compromise my stance on rights and freedoms. I believe in rights and freedoms as a universal human right issue...a matter of humanity. And wherever rights and freedoms are protected, I say ‘kudos’. Wherever it is infringed upon, I condemn it. And it could be a country too that traditionally my country has relations with. So, I would not make it a pain to separate the country from long standing relationships we’ve been involved with, but at the same time my relationship with them would be on the

Anesia Baptiste makes clear on what conditions she will maintain relations with some of those countries with which SVG has diplomatic relations. principle of the protection of human rights and freedoms everywhere: and if they break those things and I know of it, I will be speaking out in opposition to that kind of behaviour.”

Prison officers not responsible for escape at the Firearms database had revealed that a .38 revolver handed over to conclusion of a hearing. the police by the driver of Based on the findings of an ominibus in which the Tribunal, the PSC was Moses was travelling just to make a decision as to prior to his death, was the what should be done.

Licensed Firearm of Moses, 27, of Rillan Dental Technician Ewart Hill, had escaped from the ‘Ells’ King, who was killed male prison, Kingstown, about one week before. sometime during the King was reportedly daylight hours of stabbed and shot November 21, 2011, one December 4, 2011 at the week after his murder Pembroke home where he Preliminary Inquiry and his family resided. commenced at the Serious Moses and Tamika Offences Court. His life on Sutherland, an 18-year-old the run ended December woman of Prospect/Sandy 11, 2011 when police shot Bay, had been charged and killed him at Happy jointly with the December Hill, Layou. Checks made Continued from Frontpage.

Yafet Askale before and after he was ‘sprayed’. when he broke into the car. He was dyed.

He was found guilty of the theft of the items after police produced photos showing his face, skin and clothes covered in the liquid which he could not detect. He was sentenced to 49 hours of community service and ordered to pay a total of £400.

The authorities used Askale’s photos as a warning to would-be car and house thieves.

According to the UK Daily Mirror, police are now handing out SmartWater kits to people in certain vulnerable areas.

9, 2010 murder of Stevan Badnock Springer, 29, of Layou.

Springer died after being shot in the head and hip while holding his oneyear-old daughter, Alinda Telpher, in his arms. The child was unharmed during the incident, which occurred in the vicinity of Karib Cable, Kingstown.

Sutherland was discharged at the Preliminary Inquiry January 20, 2012 after Chief Magistrate Sonya Young upheld a no case submission from her lawyer, Kay BacchusBrowne.

V

4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

PM ends successful visit to Washington

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has concluded what has been described as “a successful visit” to Washington, D. C. According to a statement from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Embassy, Gonsalves “elaborated many of the foreign policies of his government to US lawmakers, the executive management of

the Organisation of American States (OAS), foreign diplomats; US and Caribbean media, American civil society and the Vincentian Diaspora.”

The statement, however, said that the main highlight of the prime minister’s visit was to deliver the keynote address at the opening of a symposium hosted by the Washington-based Institute of the Black World 21st Century (IBW).

Also headlining the symposium was former Prime Minister and President of Cape Verde, Pedro Pires.

PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves delivering the feature address at the symposium hosted by the Washington-based Institute of the Black World 21st Century (IBW).

Both leaders received legacy awards for their distinguished service in fostering Pan-Africanism.

In addressing the theme of the symposium, ‘The Future of Democracy and Development in Africa and the Caribbean’, Gonsalves “delivered a masterful discourse on the productive capacity of African nations and the use of its resources,” the statement said.

“He elaborated on many of the challenges Caribbean governments face –in particular, external shocks that torpedo the economies of small vulnerable economies–many brought about by the actions, policies and regulatory regimes of countries of the developed world,” it added.

In an address that the Embassy said was “exceptionally well received,” Gonsalves also discussed the unanimous decision by Caribbean Community (CARICOM) governments to pursue reparations from the governments of the United Kingdom, France and The Netherlands, for native genocide and slavery.

“He tied the underdevelopment of our nations to the

consequences of genocide and slavery, and emphasized his conviction that the former European colonial powers have a moral and legal responsibility to redress the egregious wrongs of the past by playing a greater role in the 21st century development of our people,” it said.

Meeting with Conyers Gonsalves’ trip to Washington also included a meeting on Capitol Hill, where he was received by Democratic Congressman John Conyers, founding member and Dean of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC).

The US lawmaker, who later attended the opening symposium to hear the feature address by Gonsalves, “exchanged views on the scourge of under-development in Afro-descendant communities brought about as a direct consequence of slavery and the ensuing racial discrimination,” the statement said.

Conyers, who has been a member of the US Congress for 48 years, is also the sponsor of a Bill in the United House of

Representatives, calling for the United States government to acknowledge the fundamental injustice of slavery in the US, its impact as manifested by racial and economic discrimination against Afro-descendants and for the US government to undertake appropriate remedies.

He expressed his intention to extend an invitation on behalf of the members of the CBC to Gonsalves to return to Washington next year to address the CBC’s annual Legislative Conference.

PM Gonsalves made known his concern for recent developments in the Dominican Republic to José Miguel Insulza, OAS Secretary General.

itself a pariah nation, particularly in the OAS and, more specifically, Concerns about developments within CARICOM, where Haiti is a member and for in DR which the DR has applied for membership,” it added.

In meeting with José The Prime Minister was Miguel Insulza, OAS also invited to give several Secretary General, interviews to various Gonsalves “expressed his media houses, using the grave concern about the opportunity to educate the ruling by the Constitutional court of the public on his government’s Dominican Republic (D.R) and CARICOM’s views on reparations, the statement to deny citizenship to said. persons of Haitian In light of these ancestry born in the interviews, prominent civil Dominican Republic,” the rights activist, the Rev. Al statement said.

Sharpton has, through his “He condemned the spokesperson, already decision as one informed “signalled his interest in by racism and said that speaking with the Prime the DR (Dominican Minister on the issue,” the Republic) risked making statement said.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 5.

Regional

Maurice Bishop remembered

Maurice Bishop , Prime Minister of Grenada during the revolutionary years 1979 – 1983.

GRENADIANS OFFICIALLY commemorated the October 1983 fall of the Revolution for the first time in 30 years, with a week of activities organized by the National Celebrations Committee.

Among the highlights of the week was a wreath laying ceremony at Fort George, on October 19, to remember the death of Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and others.

The week began Thursday 17th October with a history quiz in all schools and an exhibition of the Revolutionary period at the National Museum on 18 October.

Also carded for October 19 was a memorial service organized by the Martyrs Foundation, at Fort George. The service also included

a candlelight art display organised Deputy Prime Minister, tried to by artist Suelin Low Chew Tung. convince Bishop to accept a power“We tend to celebrate the 25th sharing arrangement. but there are at least two This appeared not to gel well generations who may not know with Bishop. He was placed why we get the holiday in the first under house arrest. And Coard place. In the same way we light took control of the PRG. candles for our dead in November Bishop’s arrest incited large – on All Saints and All Souls popular demonstrations across nights – this event is a personal Grenada and during the course of initiative – a way to pay respect one of the demonstrations, the to the souls lost and many still people freed Bishop. unaccounted for thirty years ago,” Bishop for whatever reason(s) NOW Grenada quoted Chew Tung proceeded to Fort George (then as saying. named Fort Rupert after Bishop’s Other activities planned father who had died at the hands included a wreath laying for the of Eric Gariy’s thugs) where US soldiers who died when the fighting broke out between USA armed forces invaded Bishop’s supporters and forces Grenada, and a church service to loyal to the Coard fraction. give thanks to the USA. Bishop and seven others, The Grenada Revolutionary including persons who had served period started on 13 March 1979 him as Ministers, were reportedly when armed Revolutionaries of rounded up and executed. the New Jewel Movement, led by Maurice Bishop, took over the administration of the country.

In 1983 there were indications of divisions within the Central Committee of the Peoples Revolutionary Government (PRG). A Fort George where Maurice Bishop and others were group led by killed on 19 October 1983.

Berard Coard,

Dr. Douglas gets judgement IN WHAT HAS BECOME something of a ‘fashion’ in the OECS, another Prime Minister is to be compensated for damages to his reputation.

The latest to so ‘benefit’ is Dr. Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

On Tuesday, October 8, 2013, in a written judgement, Master

Dr. Denzil Douglas would be hoping to beat the opposition both in court and at the polls.

Perletta Lanns ordered that ‘The Democrat’, the newspaper published by the Opposition People’s Action Movement (PAM), pay Dr. Douglas $300 000 in general damages and $50 000 in aggravated damages for causing injuries to his reputation.

The matter stemmed from an article published by ‘The Democrat’, December 2011. The article, headlined ‘Culture of Murder’, implied that PM Douglas had somehow been involved in the death of Noel ‘Zambo’ Heath who, on Friday, October 14, 2011, was shot multiple times outside his home, and shortly after succumbed to his injuries at the General Hospital. Heath was described as a popular Rastafarian, educator and historian.

A member of the legal team representing ‘The Democrat’ said that they intend to appeal the amount awarded as damages, hinting that the amount awarded was inordinately high.

However, even though legal counsel to the Prime Minister, Sylvester Anthony, did agree that

The death of Noel ‘Zambo’ Heath was the basis of newspaper story at the centre of the defamation case.( Photo: freeedomskn.com) the amount awarded was very high, he did not agree that the amount awarded was disproportionate. Instead, he noted that the amount spoke to the nature of the defamation.

Dr. Douglas’ payday will be deferred for what could well be an undetermined period.

Gangs rule in Trinidad and Tobago

Laventille, one of the urban districts in Trinidad and Tobago that is considered home to a number of gangs.

ALREADY SUFFERING from the effects of recent not so becoming travel advisories by the USA and Canada, Trinidad and Tobago has now come under the microscope of the A number of alleged gang Council on members were arrested Hemispheric Affairs during a state of emergency (COHA). introduced in August 2011 COHA, a think in Trinidad and Tobago. tank headquartered surrounding areas.” in Washington D.C., COHA cautioned the claims that gangs are Trinidad and Tobago the new laws in urban that simply increasing Trinidad and Tobago. the size of and giving In its most recent the police more report, October 2013, authority, was not going COHA said that the to hinder that country’s September 11 ”ruthless gang presence. beheading” of a man – “Violence,” COHA reported by the police as stated, “is a serious a warning from gang members– “exemplified problem in the islands, a recent increase in the but targeting this alone will not make an already significant brutality of gang activity effective reform,” adding that gangs in Trinidad in Port-of-Spain.” and Tobago, “have The think tank become so assessed that the coinstitutionalized that called ‘South American they pose a threat to– method of warfare’, and even control in some beheadings and other cases–the republic’s extreme forms of crucial infrastructures.” violence — is fast According to the think becoming the norm in the twin island republic. tank, there are currently COHA cites as further over 100 gangs in Trinidad and Tobago, support for its which has a total assessment the midpopulation of just over August killing of six 1,300,000. people in a 24-hour In the absence of an period. It described this as “a turf war that drew “adequate legal system,” COHA said gangs in the level of attention Trinidad and Tobago and press focus usually “outsource their justice reserved for gang in situations as trivial as activity in more parents disciplining developed countries.”

The report claims that their children,” and urged the Trinidad and gang activity in Tobago Government to Caribbean nations has address other internal “largely been ignored, security-related issues, despite the fact that “like police violence and gangs in Jamaica and excessive arrests, or Trinidad and Tobago choose to innovate on have become so their past action.” ubiquitous that they In a blanket represent a challenge to statement, COHA said : state sovereignty,” “As it now stands, gangs adding that gangs in have a stronger hold on those two CARICOM the Trinidadian member states, have a population than its “very unusual and government does.” ultimately far more dangerous effect on their (Source: Caribbean 360 News)

V

6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

SVG marks World Food Day

by KENVILLE HORNE

THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE on Wednesday 16th October hosted the World Food Day Agricultural Exhibition and Food Fair, under the theme ‘Sustainable Food systems for Food Security and Nutrition’, at Heritage Square, Kingstown.

The Exhibition and Food Fair was executed by a World Food Day Committee within the Ministry of Agriculture, in an effort to sensitize and promote local agricultural products amongst Vincentians.

A variety of local food businesses erected small stalls to promote their products, while government officials gave brief remarks in a short opening ceremony.

Chairperson of the World Food Day Committee, Sherilan Dennie-Edwards, said the event was in keeping with the country’s commitment to mark World Food Day, October 16, and listed anong a week-long

programme of activities, a tree planting exercise, a radio programme, a church service, and a fish and madungo night.

Reuben Robertson, currently working along with the Food and Agriculture Cordelia Gibson (left) and Organization Michelle Guy brought a lesson (FAO) as a technical adviser to on healthy food on behalf of the Organization of the Home Economics Eastern Caribbean Association.

States, disclosed Among the local that the FAO is working businesses displaying with the OECS to their ware at the develop a framework for exhibition and food fair, the implementation of a was Vincy Klus, a cluster food and nutrition of agribusinesses in SVG. programme and to Established in 2010, its promote Zero hunger.

The opening ceremony membership includes a wide range of included an address by enterprises, e.g.

Minister of Agriculture, production of pepper Saboto Caesar, a sauces, seasonings, performance from the condiments, chips, jams , CW Prescod Dancers, and renditions from that soaps, craft, smoked foods, essence and jellies. school’s steel orchestra.

One of the members of VincyKlus exhibiting at Exhibits the Fair was Val Kelly Investment, which

Exhibitors featuring local produce brought purpose to the celebration of World Food Day. Left: Oil products made by members of VincyKlus. focuses on oil production.

Proprietor of Val Kelly, Kaylern Patterson from North Union, said her company specializes in producing flavoured coconut oil, and was established just over a year.

She admitted “business is slow,” because Vincentians still have a preference for the imported oils, even though, as she asserted “the local oil is much

better.”

Patterson also noted that small businesses, such as hers, are in need of easier access to loans to assist them with expanding their businesses.

Also on hand at the World Food Day Exhibition and Food Fair was the Home Economics Association whose member, Cordelia Gibson, a former teacher

The National Development Foundation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines P.O.Box 1455, McKies Hill, Kingstown Tel: 784-457-2646/494-2510; email: ndfsv s g@vincysurf.com; Website: ndfsv s g.org

Providing Loans s, Business Supportt, Tec e hnical Assistance and Training

with over 20 years experience in the area of food and nutrition, led the preparation of “healthy food” which patrons sampled.

Gibson described the exhibition as an important undertaking to raise public awareness about the value as well as the dangers of different types of food.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 7.

V

8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 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 Independence and the CCJ This country was declared independent of Great Britain on October 27, 1979. Clem Iton, in his article ‘INDEPENDENCE WITHOUT LIBERATION IS HOLLOW, (carried in our Independence Supplement, page 37a.) describes the affair as one where “a constitution was written in London and handed-over at a resplendent ceremony on October 27, 1979.”

It’s 34 years since that occasion of pomp, and, in many regards, we remain tied to some of the colonials’ ‘trappings’ which characterized our ‘democracy’ pre-1979.

One such ‘trapping’ in which we are still entangled relates to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

THE CCJ was established in April 2005, some four years after a decision of the 2001 Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) meeting in Nassau. It, however, had its first real mention of worth in 1970 when the Jamaica delegation to that year’s Caribbean Heads of Government Meeting held in Jamaica, broached the idea of a regional judicial tribunal it referred to as a Caribbean Court of Justice.

The CCJ, as now established, is intended to be the Caribbean’s last resort and more for Member States of CARICOM. In replacing the Privy Council, as per the CARICOM Secretariat website: “The CCJ will consider and determine appeals in both civil and criminal matters from common law courts within the jurisdictions of Member states of the Community and which are parties to the Agreement Establishing the CCJ. In the discharge of its appellate jurisdiction, the CCJ will be the highest municipal court in the Region.

“In the exercise of its original jurisdiction, the CCJ will be discharging the functions of an international tribunal applying rules of international law in respect of the interpretation and application of the Treaty (of Chagaramus).”

The CCJ, therefore, would exercise both an appellate and an original jurisdiction.

To date, sadly so, only three Caribbean states - Barbados, Belize and Guyana - have replaced the Privy Council with the CCJ, as their final appellate court. What a shame, in our case, after 34 years of independence!

The question abounds: Are CARCOM leaders really serious about the CCJ? Do they see it as a necessity, as another pathway to building that post-colonial society with our particular marks of identity?

And why, in heaven’s name, are we (St. Vincent and the Grenadines included) holding on to this ‘trapping’ of colonialism, when in recent years there have been unambiguous signals, not to mention the subtle ones, from some British officials that point clearly to a preference on their part to be rid of the responsibility of dealing with appeals from the Caribbean?

Some Lords in England have gone on record as urging Caribbean countries to hasten with establishing in full, their own final court of appeal. They don’t want us hanging on. Can’t we see and accept that?

And, it is not that the region is not blessed with the legal ‘brains’… far from it. In fact, we may be ‘over blessed’ in that regard.

So, we establish the CCJ, accept its ruling in respect of the interpretation and application of the Treaty of Chagaramus, but stop short of fully respecting its expertise and jurisdiction by not accepting it as the final appellate court. Double standard!!!! In any language!!!

How can those leaders who have not taken their countries into the full and wholesome acceptance of the CCJ not see that it is inconsistent with all their grandiose pronouncements of political sovereignty and independence, to continue on this path that stops short?

How can we hold on high any sense of independence and not see that this non-acceptance of the CCJ is not far from being an emasculation of the principles of sovereignty?

How long are we to continue with referring ‘our business’ to a Court of Lords whose culture is so different from that of the Caribbean?

How much longer are we going to make appeals to this Privy Council and not see that it is an act that works in direct opposition to establishing a true Caribbean jurisprudence of which so many of our lawyer prime ministers like to boast?

And how do we feel when we continue along a path that literally flies in the faces of those whom we appoint as judges by saying to them, “We trust you with our lives only to this degree,”? Since when does trust have a scale of graduation?

The occasion of another anniversary of our INDEPENDENCE, is as good a time as any to reflect on our tardiness with respect to the CCJ. Many Commonwealth countries have abolished appeals to the Privy Council. The Caribbean (SVG) continues to lag behind as though we have not awoken to the fact that it is the 21st century.

Sir Rupert John –a Vincy pioneer “There are three main reasons why this column has focussed on Sir Rupert John at this particular moment in time.

First of all, when I wrote circumstance, we tend to forget last week of how Vincentians people, sideline them, write like to break down rather than them off. They cease to be news. build up, my mind immediately And to be shut off in a small ran on Sir Rupert who remains claustro-phobic island is the a shining exception to our worst kind of isolation, like tendency to adopt negative studied loneliness in a packed Rupert John attitudes. crowd!

The book “Pioneers In Nation There are some memorable Building”, written by Sir Rupert, is itself features about Sir Rupert; he belongs to a pioneering effort. It represents an that generation of men - Fred Phillips, honest-to-goodness attempt to hold up a Frank and Henry Williams, George select group of Vincentians as role Thomas and J.L Eustace among them models, so to speak, for the rest of the society. In a way, it is a sort of Operation who set great store by the acquisition of a bootstrap in social terms. Vincentians are fine education in the most adverse circumstances. Sir Rupert earned his to find heroic deeds, if not heroes, in the degree by doing overseas correspondence biographies of their own people courses long before one dreamt of the sometimes people of very humble origin.

This is not meant to be a book review, concept of Distance Teaching. And he completed a law degree and Bar Finals in so there is no need clinically to examine stride in the early London course of the lives presented to us, nor their 1950s. selection in the first place. What is of Sir Rupert was expected to lead the importance is the motive: that the author new St Vincent Labour Party at its set about to instil confidence in our formation in 1955, but allowed himself to people by suggesting that they draw be outmanoeuvred. For a time, he held strength and inspiration from looking at the Deputy position, then left to chair the their own. In other words, Sir Rupert People’s Liberal Movement 1957, in turn was finding cause for praise and congratulations for our social progress in retiring from active politics in disgust the face of countless odds, not lamenting shortly after.

Following a brief private Law Practice over our lot or in a way wallowing in in St Vincent and a stint as Attorney self—pity.

General in Grenada, R.G John accepted a Sir Rupert, however, was quite aware post in the Human Rights Division of the of our crab-in-a-barrel mentality, and delighted in making the following offering United Nations. A high point in his a mock explanation. Great raconteur, he career as an international civil servant was his representation of the U.N in a claimed that we from St Vincent are largely descended from a particular West high powered delegation that looked into African tribe in which all the huts in the the affairs of Nigeria, then in the throes village were made from the same mould - of a civil war with Biafra which threatened to break away. small, modest, and unattractive. If an It was while at the U.N that Sir enterprising villager, usually a returnee from the world outside, dared to improve Rupert John responded to the call of Chief Minister Milton Cato, backed up on the design, the entire village would by persuasions of the U.N Generaldescend on the adventurer and reduce Secretary U-Thant, to return home to the offending home to ruins. That done, the villagers would then rebuild for their serve the country as its first native aggrieved brother an exact replica of the governor, 1968-1976. Among other contributions, Governor John will be home he had tried to replace! remembered for heading a Committee Rupert John by his own lifestyle, which recommended the abolition of carried the message that at all costs we January 22nd holiday as “Discovery” Day, must break out of the vicious kind of which smacked of Euro-centricity and mediocrity, complacency, and vulgarity; and build our own home, after a manner British insolence.

He also published the useful booklet of speaking, to our individual taste.

“St Vincent and its Constitution” to assist The second reason why my thoughts the general public in a more informed alight on Sir Rupert is because he is not understanding of the context and content well, his razor-sharp mind does not function as it used to. In such Continued on Page 12.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 9.

Views

Noise, drinking and all that

HAS ANYONE else noticed how this country is a noisy country?

I moved to a certain part of St. Vincent to get away from the daily barrage of music and the noise from drunkard men, only to discover that I had jumped from the frying pan into the fire.

While I no longer have to suffer seven days a week, I have hardly had a quiet weekend in my new location.

After a hard week at work, the least that I expect is some peace and quiet for the weekend. But this has become something of an

elusive dream.

Hardly a weekend (Saturday and Sunday) passes without a blaring HiFi system and reminders by a person on a microphone that beers are three for ten dollars. I recall that some time ago, Sunday Block-Os were banned, but this seemed to have been overturned.

I have reached to a point where I am annoyed, and this is made worse because there is no one to whom I can complain. The weekend brawls, as I call them, are legal. But I wonder about

how things work now as far as the selling of liquor is concerned.

Long ago, you had to get a licence to run a bar, even if it was for one half-day and for some charitable cause. Do any of these people who organize these sporting events have a licence to sell all this beer and rum?

I can only pray that my Sundays at least could be returned to the peaceful, quiet days they used to be. Maybe this is wishful thinking.

Annoyed

Speed test for Anshumali Singh THIS IS MY speed as of 2.11 pm on Oct 16, 2013.

This is just after we had little bit of rain in the area. Can someone explain to me what rain has to do with my speed going 50% down on both upload and download?

When I visited the office of my internet provider, the office manager tried to argue with me that KC network is 100% optimum. Look at the attached Picture. I am KC client. The Speedtest Server is also from KC. Either the speed test is lying or someone in the KC office does not

want to accept the truth and give me appropriate Credit.

I have called over 5 times to KC famous 5701600 phone number and told them I want my 2.2 Mbps down and 512 K up speed majority of the time. That is what I am supposed to get with $120/ month package.

So why am I not getting it on the Karib Cable Fiber optics Network?

I need answers.

AS

The history of humanity AS WE CELEBRATE our 34th anniversary of Independence from England, let us reflect on the long journey humanity came - from creation, primitive communalism, slavery, colonial, imperialism, socalled scientific socialism, apartheid, Marxism communism, capitalism.

These are not in sequence, but let us not forget the four world-ruling governments that were prophesied by Daniel (Dan. 2) which revealed themselves in history.

They are as follows King Nebuchadnezzar and his Chaldene Babylonian empire — around 539-531 BC; Darius and the Medo-Persian empire — around 539-331 BC; Alexander the Great with the Greek empire -around 331-168 BC. All those who are acquainted with history very well know that the Roman Empire took world political power following the Greeks, around 168 BC. Down the line of history, we see the splitting of the Roman Empire. The Muslims did damage in the east. We had the explorers, Portugal, Spain, France, England etc. It is said in history that the native people of this country were Indians (red/yellow)

whom the white called Caribs, and who with Africans lived undisturbed and in peace in their beloved Hairoun (Land of the Blessed) till 1626, when King Charles I of England assumed ownership of Hairoun. By then, the name of our land was changed to St. Vincent. Then down the line of history: — slavery to abolition in 1834, until the struggle for freedom from colonialism started by George McIntosh, followed by George Charles anchored by E.T. Joshua; statehood and Independence by R.M. Cato progression with Sir J.F. Mitchell, A. Eustace (short time) and at the moment Dr. R. Gonsalves P.M. And through this, we must not forget World War 1 — 1914 to 1918, the birth of Marxism communism in 1917 in Russia and World War 11 — 1939 to 1945.

There is much that we to reflect on as we come together to chart our own destiny.

Happy 34th anniversary of Independence, Hairoun and the chain of islands.

Christian Democrat

The NDP looks like it’s ready THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY is out first and hopefully running. In their column in your last week paper, they were brave, and gave indication that they are ready for the next general election by naming a full slate of candidates.

The slate shows some incumbents, some who have tried before and some new horses. I want to believe that, with this early naming of candidates, the NDP is telling us that they are serious and ready for whatever the ULP will throw at them.

However, with the exception of Dr. Jules Ferdinand and some of the new fellows, whom I must admit I know nothing or very little about, the slate is the same old one. I expect that Dr. Jules will bring a fresh look and sound to the NDP ticket.

Already he is being targeted, and this tells me that the ULP thinks he is a real threat.

My one question for the NDP leader is: Could you not do better than Dr. Lewis again? He has tried and failed. It is time for a new face. His style just doesn’t tell me that he will ever win.

As it stands, the NDP just needs to win one seat.

That victory cannot come from Dr. Lewis. It might well come from Dr. Jules.

The next election will be an interesting one. For Mr. Eustace, it could be his last, especially if the NDP loses again.

Garnet. N.Y.

The Heritage Parade WHEN SOMETHING good happens in this country, we must recognize it and say that it is good. I am an ordinary citizen of this country, have been for well over three score and ten, and when I saw the Heritage Parade for the first time this year, I was impressed.

I understand that it is the GHS which is responsible for putting this idea to work. That school, its principal, staff and students, must be highly commended for an outstanding achievement.

They must be encouraged, and we must see to it that they get the kind of support they deserve from the government, the Lotto and business places.

I have lived to see some hard earned money in this country go down the drain helping out causes for narrow politics. This Heritage Parade is about all of us, and it deserves our support.

Let us put our money where our mouth is.

And by the way, it was pleasing to see some elders in the parade. Persons like Mina Maloney, Lennox John and one of the Commissiong boys.

Maybe next year, God willing, I will also take the walk.

Senior Citizen

* Mr. Editor, how come a professional journalist like Nelson King could waste time covering Ms. ANESIA Baptiste and her Thusian trivia? * How come there was no apology by a certain publication for ‘misidentifying’ our national bird? * Is the PM going to remain at home for the balance of the year? * When is the traffic department going to look into that container that seems to have taken up ‘permanent residence’ outside the Coreas-Hazells Inc. wholesale on Bay Street? Maybe they should take a look at what happens during morning hour traffic in that area, eh? * Who really ran that recent Literary Fair at UWI?

V

10. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The NDP will make things better

Continuing the process of development as we mark the 34th Anniversary of Independence

expenditure has not been reduced; and no public sector worker has been laid off. And then the government has embarked on the largest capital project in the history of the country, the construction of the international airport project at Argyle.

The Issue

Negativity still exists

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will mark the 34th anniversary of independence this Sunday, October 27th, 2013, in a number of ways, but chiefly through the military parade at Victoria Park. Whatever activity is undertaken on that day, Vincentians will at some time reflect on the attainment of nationhood, and how far we have come as a nation and as a people.

There can be no doubt that we have come a long way as a nation, particularly over the last twelve years or so. That period marks an episode of improved living standards, enhanced income, and an expansion in the levels of education, housing, health and sanitation, water and electricity and telecommunications.

The evidence is there for all to see.

There has been a mushrooming of “learning and intelligence” among our population as Vincentians flock to take advantage of the many educational opportunities. The housing stock has increased dramatically with the housing projects at Keartons, Diamonds, Green Hill and Clare Valley, to name a few areas, delivering over 650 new houses. Our vehicle population has gone from just over 7000 vehicles in 2001, to a staggering 26,000 today, and that figure continues to grow.

All this is possible because the ULP administration, through its “peoplecentred development policy”, has delivered the goods in a number of ways. The ULP has increased the wealth of the country from one billion in 2001, to just under three billion today. The country has made tremendous strides in the reduction of poverty and indigent poverty, and in matters related to hunger. In all respects, in the development of the state infrastructure, and developments in telecommunications, culture and the arts, sports, science and technology, and social equality, the progress can be seen and identified.

Despite the proud record of achievements, despite the pride that Vincentians will feel at this time, celebrating our 34th anniversary of independence, there are still a few things that we must address. There is a disturbing coarseness in our public and private discourses that does no credit to our country. Our talk show hosts on radio, particularly on opposition radio, have allowed the national debate to descend to new lows. We have to move away from this negativity and address national issues in the spirit of self-mastery, to enhance our possibilities, and to reduce our limitations.

As a nation, as a people, faith and deeds must occupy an important place in our psyche. We must always look to what is possible, and we must consolidate our impressive gains and build on them. Under the ULP our country can boast some impressive projects and social achievements, some of which we have mentioned before.

We must pay some attention to the increased criminal conduct by a minority of our people. This is happening despite improving levels of policing and the strengthening of the security apparatus. Clearly this requires a new thinking and some hard work. In the area of health, we have to curb and reduce those poor behavioural habits that have resulted in the rise in non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes.

Finally, there is an apparent decline in the level of spirituality in the country. We have more churches and religious denominations today, but our people have developed a tendency to adapt to a behavioural style that is not in keeping with the teachings of Christ. We have demonstrated this, in our attitude to our neighbours, the way in which we respect government properties, the way we dress, our attitude to work, and our tendency to seek “leisure and pleasure”.

The mettle of Vincentians In all of this good news, the crowning thought is the strength and the mettle shown by our people, in this particular period of our history. It has been said that our country is being buffeted by one of the worst global financial and economic crises in world history. Still, as a people, we have been able to weather this storm in a comfortable way.

Our country has experienced further pain from events not of our making. We have had a succession of natural disasters which have affected our financial resources. Then there is the collapse of two regional insurance companies, CLICO and BAICO, where Vincentians had invested large portions of their retirement funds.

Through all of this, the ULP administration has provided the leadership to allow our country to survive and thrive. Government

Conclusion As we embark on another year of our journey as an independent nation, let hard and smart work be the centerpiece of our society. There can be no room for slackness and error, and we must deliver optimum service and effort, if our country is to develop further. We must get the small things right, even when we acknowledge that from time to time we will make mistakes; but when we do, we must fix these and move on.

We thank Almighty God for all his grace and blessings in our historic journey so far and we are guided by the words of our National Anthem, “whatever the future brings, our faith will see us through”.

We wish all Vincentians at home and in the Diaspora, a happy 34th Anniversary of Independence.

ON SUNDAY 27TH OCTOBER, 2013, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will celebrate its 34th anniversary of independence. Of those thirty-four years, the period 2001 to the present has been recorded as the worst for Vincentians. Never in the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines have Vincentians been meeting it so hard; all because of the mismanagement of this country’s economy by the ULP regime.

When the ULP took government in 2001, the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was blooming. During the seventeen (17) years the NDP was in office, the economy of the island grew at an average of 5% per annum, but it took the ULP government a short time to destroy it. To the extent that for four consecutive years, the economy did not grow; hurricane ‘Ralph’ destroyed everything in its path.

Below is a table which shows those four years of decline: The first sector hurricane ‘Ralph’ demolished was Agriculture, more so

YEARS

PERCENTAGE

2008

-0.6

2009

-2.3

2010

-1.8

2011

-0.4

bananas. Farmers were literally chased out of the banana industry. The Banana Growers Association was taken away from farmers by the government, the credit system was removed, and farmers were placed on Public Assistance through the NIS. After that was done, the vindictive ULP administration turned its back on the poor farmers, and their lands remained uncultivated. In addition, the policies of the government continued to turn farmers away from the land, and those who remain are barely surviving.

Farmers today do not have the economic foundation that they had when the NDP was in office.

Furthermore, this disaster wiped out the construction industry, another productive sector. As a result, thousands of carpenters, masons, plumbers and electricians are at home unemployed; so too are the truck owners and drivers. Someone asked one day, “When last did you see a house constructing in your constituency?” I was unable to answer because I did not pay much attention to construction, but after serious thinking I realised that not one house or any other building was being constructed in the constituency. I then began further investigation and also found out that there were many houses that needed repairs, but the owners were unable to repair them because they did not have the finance.

This is so because of the sad state of the economy.

Because of the damages created to the economy by the devastation of the productive sectors, the private sector is also suffering. Businesses are closing; some are reducing their staff while others have reduced their work week.

And making matters worse, the ULP government owes the private sector over $60 million. This money is well needed by the private sector, if it is to play a meaningful role in the development of the country.

Apart from the destruction of the productive sectors by this unnatural disaster, Vincentians were also on the receiving end of insults from the holder

of the office of Prime Minister. Every facet of the Vincentian society felt the wrath of hurricane ‘Ralph’; even the Spiritual Baptists received their share of insults.

They were told that when they went to bed with their belly full and when the food started to ride them, they got up next morning and started to ring bell and said they got a message. The journalists were called ‘chattering nabobs’ whenever they asked questions not to his liking. Every known insult was hauled at Vincentians. They were called, ‘lowest common denominator, chattering class, criminal element, lazy, vagabonds and minority rump’. And the leader of the opposition was told that George Bush, former president of the United States of America, would not see him in the night.

An Export led Economy Let no one fool you. In a period of diminishing grants and reducing subsidies, the battle is well and truly engaged to attract more and more Foreign Direct Investments to our economy. This, of course, has its implications. Foreign Direct Investment is normally provided by the Multinational Corporations which may have their difficulties. However, we in the NDP see this as a time for a different engagement in our epoch and nation building.

The NDP is committed to build, transform and support the capacity of our companies and corporations to do meaningful trade, and to make them both productive and competitive. The following specific actions will be taken by the next NDP government: establish a National Productivity Centre; work with regional governments toward a joint production strategy in the area of Agriculture; meet our investment and export goals, using existing state monopolies to assist in equity gap financing in critical areas, such as electricity, water, port activity and processing; provide fiscal incentives, grants and consultancy; capitalise on the regional investment fund through the CSME agreement; pursue joint ventures, strategic alliances, and licensing agreements with companies already trading in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, even while exploring new partners; and identify and support new business portfolios, such as pharmaceuticals.

The NDP will establish a Ministry of the Private Sector which will be directed to the development of an enterprise culture which favours initiatives, enterprise creation productivity, environmental consciousness, quality, good labour and industrial relations and social practices which are equitable. It is the entrepreneurs who drive the economy’s engine and stimulate economic activity.

The successful economic development of our nation will be as result of encouraging the entrepreneurial culture of our people.

Therefore, Vincentians need a government that cares for them, one which has the programmes and policies to return this country to economic growth, and only the NDP has such programmes and policies. Once again, we reiterate our call for the electorate of this country to vote for the NDP whenever the next general elections are called.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 11.

Views

Helicopter Vision

A historical moment

“When old people speak it is not because of the sweetness of words in our mouths; it is because we see something you do not see.” - Chinua Achebe (1930–2013) Nigerian author, novelist; No Longer At Ease, 1961.

A HISTORICAL MOMENT is an important marker in the life of a person , a nation, region or the world.

Historical moments compel us to stop, think or wonder. They may propel us to action because of the far reaching changes they bring to our lives.

For our nation, the 1935 uprising against colonial rule, the attainment of Universal Adult Suffrage in 1951, the declaration of national independence in 1979 and the ‘Kill the Bills’ struggles of 1981 represent historical moments for reflection, rejoicing, redemption and achievement.

Regionally, the collapse of the West Indies Federation in 1961, the domination of international cricket by the West Indies team between 1975 and 1991, the triumph then implosion of the Grenada Revolution in 1979 and 1983 are memorable and historic.

Internationally, we cite the discovery and diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in 1981, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the release of Nelson Mandela and his elevation to the presidency of South Africa 1994 and the Arab Spring of 2011 and the prolonged crisis in capitalism as historical moments of far reaching importance and implication.

Locally, the wizardry of James Mitchell following the 6/6/1 elections of 1972 which landed him into the premier chair, and his subsequent dominance of Vincentian politics, the ‘destiny’ days of Ralph Gonsalves and his eventual victory in 2001, and the ‘they blew it, I know it and they know it’ defeat of the Arnhim Eustace’s NDP in the 2010 elections stand out.

If you miss out on a historical moment, it may be virtually impossible to secure the benefits, accolades, star power and/or achievement that passed you by. If you are gifted and mean well, your homeland may be denied the good fortunes that might have flowed from your steady hand and mind.

Politically, SVG lost in 1979 when the United Peoples Movement (UPM), a party that fielded the most talented cadre of candidates in our history, splintered and disintegrated primarily because of inflated egos, unbridled ambition, political inexperience and dogma. Among its candidates were Ralph Gonsalves, Renwick Rose, Parnel Campbell, Mike Browne, Carlyle Dougan, Dr Kenneth John, Caspar London, Simeon Greene and Robbie Fitzpatrick.

What would our country have been like if the UPM stayed together, won elections and formed government?

The social forces coalescing around it were some of the best and most committed patriots in our country.

But this was not to be; the moment was missed and forever lost.

I have heard it said that Vincent Beache might have been the best prime minister our country never had.

At least one patriot, Renwick Rose, by dint of hard work, discipline, commitment and understanding of issues, would have been equal to or surpassed all those our history threw up. But we will stay with Vincent Beache for a particular point. In 1989, the NDP won all 15 seats, and in 1994, Mitchell won 12 to Labour’s 3.

Vincent Beache was undaunted. He stayed with Labour. In 1998, Mitchell’s NDP was rotten to the core and could have been toppled, but Beache did not deliver. Mitchell won 8 seats to 7. The historical moment passed Beache by. More importantly,

NIGERIANS AND STUDENTS of African literature may be familiar with the Chinua Achebe quotation that was used to introduce this week’s article. Chinua (Albert Chinualumogu Achebe) was born in Nigeria on November 16, 1930. He was one of Nigeria’s most famous novelists.

His first novel, Things Fall Apart was published in 1958. It is still considered to be the most widely read book in modern African literature. He also wrote No Longer at Ease, Arrow of God, A Man of the People, and Anthills of the Savannah.

Achebe was also a poet, critic, and Professor of Africana Studies at Brown University, USA. Many of his writings focus on traditions of African society, the impact of Christian influences, and the clash of Western and traditional African values. His style involved the use of folk stories and proverbs.

African folk stories and proverbs have played a major role in educating our ancestors. Many of these were orally passed down through generations and focused exclusively on animal stories (e.g. Anansi stories). Some also focused on kings, warriors, and farmers. It is most encouraging to observe the number of academics and researchers on the African continent and elsewhere who are now seeking to archive these “priceless teaching gems”.

We also appreciate by the number of Caribbean writers who are now researching and publishing the many elements of Caribbean folklore. They seek to record and preserve the orallytransmitted beliefs, myths, tales, and practices of the Caribbean people and our slave ancestors who brought these to the region from their West African societies. These stories and anecdotes play a critical role in teaching societal values.

The older and more experienced in society are required to provide the younger, less experienced, with the “helicopter vision” needed to successfully traverse life’s myriad of challenges. We need to make the effort and exert the energy to provide them with adequate guidance so that they avoid the foibles and follies that will damage them socially, spiritually and emotionally. They, the inexperienced, can be easily compared to “foot soldiers” who are fighting their respective battles in the trenches or merrily marching along dangerous roads where the landmines could seriously damage or destroy their lives. Or they, because of their limited vision, may walk directly into one of life’s ambushes and be seriously maimed. Unfortunately, many of us “older folks” have abdicated that responsibility for a myriad of reasons (excuses). Many of us avoid correcting children when we hear them punctuate their conversations with indecent language. However, many of us can testify of the times when we have overheard such foul language and pause to reprimand the user. In many instances we receive a “thank you, sir/madam” response. We are still required to “intercept with intent” and give the younger ones the correction and guidance that so many of them need and appreciate. And while there are some who may appear to reject our interventions, deep down inside they appreciate the fact that we care enough to reach and guide them aright.

The debate continues in relation to whether we should “allow” our children to follow their passion as it relates to such decisive choices as subject

selection in the secondary school and/or choice of careers. And while it is true that we should guide our children to pursue courses of study that would energize them we also need to display some degree of objectivity and balance to suggest alternate choices where necessary. Let me explain, our children may be frustrated by the challenge of learning a second language (e.g. French and/or Spanish) and long for the time when they can drop this subject area.

However, our “helicopter vision” gives us a special view of the future where we observe that the individuals who master a second language are more likely to secure better job prospects than those who are limited to the English language only. In addition, we have the experience to know that studies in languages at secondary school play a significant role in helping us to master English grammar. Many of us can testify that it was by studying the grammatical structure of foreign languages that we were better able to understand and appreciate English grammar.

As indicated in the previous paragraph, we have a major responsibility and privilege to provide our wards with the helicopter vision as it relates to career paths too. The debate will continue in relation to how involved we should be in terms of leading them along a particular career choice. Yes, it is good when they select a career that they love, but it must also be a line of business or profession that will enable them to live comfortably.

Having opened this “ants nest,” let me speedily indicate that I am not advocating that we force them to do something that they find revolting.

However, we should show them the options that are available, and encourage them to be objective and realistic as they make their selection. I was recently introduced to the concept of the “T-shaped individuals”. Tom Kelley, in his book entitled “The Ten Faces of Innovation”, explains that these are persons who enjoy a breath of knowledge in many fields, but they also have depth in at least one area of expertise. Many of our children will fit this description too; they may have interests in many areas (and can do well in several). We need to provide them with the guidance, the helicopter vision, to aid them in selecting the areas that they should consider for the “deep dive”; the areas of specialisation.

The foregoing may have seemed controversial. It beckons for greater debate and discussion. That is desirable. These are the discussions that should be taking place across and among the various age groups. It is such a process that will stimulate thought and, if done with objectivity, can create and sustain the helicopter vision that unearths and strengthens cultural norms, subject selection, career choices, and so on. We can build better neighbourhoods and nations when we commit to providing the helicopter vision. Like Chinua, we (the old people) need to invite the conversations, not because of the sweetness of words, but because the helicopter vision allows us to see so many things that they (the younger ones) do not see.

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

he had the good sense to recognize it, and passed the mantle of leadership.

By June of 2000, Mitchell and Eustace exposed their soft underbelly.

Gonsalves , now the leader of a merged Unity Labour Party (ULP), ably assisted by the broad based Organization in Defense of Democracy (ODD), pounced on the power vacuum created by the NDP misdeeds. Mitchell, sensing the end was near, sued for peace, agreed to cut short his party’s fourth term. In the 2001 elections, Gonsalves seized the moment and accomplished what Beache failed to do in 1998. What Gonsalves called the ‘destiny’ days of 2000 to his victory of 2001 are what historians properly describe as historical moments.

Where I am going with this analysis? In the same way Vincent Beache failed to capture the historical moment of 1998, the historical moment also passed by the current leader of the opposition. His failure to defeat Gonsalves and the ULP in December 2010 still has NDP supporters in a daze.

Merited conjecture: Had Ralph Gonsalves led the Labour/MNU coalition in 1998, he may have been victorious. Similarly, any other leader would have led the NDP past the ULP in the December 2010 polls.

They would have overcome Eustace’s jinx factor. Eustace failed to do so because the historical moment did not align with him.

Some may say this is anti-Eustace rhetoric, but it is not. Rather it flows from a deep understanding of history and politics. Plain Talk had predicted that Gonsalves and the ULP were ‘goners,’ until Eustace bungled his way through the last month of the campaign to defeat. We recognized in time Eustace’s inability to close, and revised the prediction from an NDP landslide to too close to call.

Now, could Eustace conceivably win in 2015? Of course he can. It is statistically possible for a gambler with sufficient time and an inexhaustible stash of cash to regain all that he lost. Similarly, in politics, if a politician sticks around long enough, he could gain the top prize Manning did in Trinidad, and Gonsalves did here. But in Gonsalves’ case, he took his political sticks when he was younger and emerged as PM by age 55, a prime age for leadership of a country.

Even if Eustace were to drink from the cup of redemption and success in 2015, he will be 71 years old, with little or no physical or intellectual vigor left. NDP might have been back in power already, had he stepped away following his second defeat as NDP leader in 2005. If he remains convinced that he has a contribution as elder statesman, he should resign as leader and remain in parliament.

The NDP would be better for his devotion and good sense. Look for leadership to loom large in the 2015 elections.

This column first appeared on November 3, 2012.

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

V

12. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Taiwan exploitation breeds poverty Editor’s note: We continue to allow open expression of views as per a society that supports freedom of the press. We are, however, not necessarily supportive of the views expressed by political columns, standing columnists and opinion pieces.

Taiwan’s exploitation of our people breeds poverty, and their exploitation contributes to the continuing poverty in SVG. Taiwan makes billions of dollars from SVG’s deep sea fish licences, and in return, our people get peanuts. When Taiwan gives us a few thousand dollars in pitiful charity money, it’s not because they like us; it’s because they like the billions they make from us.

To mark SVG’s 34 years of independence from Britain, Taiwan has

made a hurried gift of $269,000 to 415 SVG school children on 18 October 2013: 187 Primary School Children $400 each; 169 Secondary School Children $800 each, and 59 Post Secondary School children $1000.

Taiwan is so shameful and immoral, that if exploits our children in public, before our very eyes, with these token charity offerings. Taiwan should not use our school children in its social engineering in SVG. Taiwan’s independence ‘gift’ is a gross insult and mocks our nation.

Taiwan just wants our people to be subordinate to them and dependent upon them, so they can spoon-feed us whenever they like. The more they keep us in poverty, the more power they exert over our people. They make our country a

begging nation. Taiwan uses the same formula of exploitation in other countries around the world where they operate.

From the moment Taiwan came to our country over 30 years ago, their exploitation started to incubate poverty in SVG. Unless we stop the incubation that continues today, we will see another generation of Vincentians growing up in poverty.

Both the ULP and the NDP regimes have allowed Taiwan to exploit and abuse our people for over 30 years. This is shameful. However, for the benefit of our people, a Green government will make ties with China and get rid of Taiwan.

A Green government will stop the exploitation of our people by Taiwan, and Ivan O’Neal, personally, from his own

Taiwanese are so selfish.

They are one of the world leaders in wallet, will buy the manufacturing, but they Taiwan ambassador a have not had the one-way ticket out of goodwill to set up a here, for him never to factory in SVG. They return. We must send could not care if our the Taiwanese home for people drop dead in the our people to gain street from hunger — prosperity. they just want our fish Vincentians be aware - money. whenever the Taiwanese Fishing for tuna is a gives us a gift, it is just a billion dollar industry. A microscopic portion of Green government will what they have use that money to create parasitically leeched thousands of new jobs for from our fish licence. The our people, reduce crime

and poverty in SVG, and make sure all Vincentians have a high standard of living.

SVG needs a good revenue base for sustainable economic growth. We have to continue to fight for a fair taxation system in our country to stimulate economic growth, or else SVG will continue to be in poverty and squalor.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Sir Rupert John – a Vincy pioneer From Page 8. of the fundamental Law of the land.

Indeed, back in private life, as in the earlier period, Sir Rupert gave talks and lectures, or participated in panel discussions dwelling consistently on the related themes of Black Nationalism, cultural awareness and the role of Africa.

Naturally, Sir Rupert saw red when he encountered instances of discrimination in St Vincent with respect to public access to beaches in the Villa-Young Island area. Charity had to begin at home.

In normal circumstances, Sir Rupert would have been in the forefront of the local movement linking us to the great contemporary happening in South Africa, his book, “Racism and its Elimination”, published in 1981 under the auspices of UNITAR, was clear on the point and straight with its message.

“Apartheid” was a crime against humanity and had no place in the civilised world. One could not bargain or treat with it in the absence of common ground rules, as Nkrumah once said, to compromise a principle was to abandon it. Therefore in dealing with this tangled web of

deceit, one simply had to cut the Gordian knots to free up the process.

There is a sense which Sir Rupert is therefore a significant, if reluctant, absentee from all the local goings-on that surround the historic occasion marking the death of Apartheid and the rebirth of good over evil. That is why I have placed Sir Rupert on my agenda, in honour of absent friends as it were.”

The foregoing was written two and on half years ago in appreciation of a wounded soldier, a retired general in the service of national development.

This week I salute the passing of this patriotic son and Caribbean man and Third-World personality whose earthly life finally ebbed away on Christmas eve.

At his State funeral on Sunday December 29, tribute paid in the eulogy by Andrew Cummings and in the sermon by Monty Maule, as well as the many friends who turned out for the send-off, and the folk who lined the streets to witness the impressive procession, all told the story of profound loss recorded and the celebration of the life and witness of Sir Rupert John.

(Reprinted from the Vincentian 10th June 1994)

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 13.

News

A Moringa drive is on! by: KENVILLE HORNE THE RICHMOND VALE Academy (RVA) has unveiled an ambitious plan that, it says, will decrease the health bill of Vincentians.

The Non-profit registered, learning institution is hoping to distribute 10,000 Moringa trees to 20 different communities across the country. The tree is said to possess substantial health benefits, and offers great potential for agriculture expansion.

The RVA, located in the lush Richmond area of North Leeward and catering to students from around the world, is expected to complete the distribution of the 10,000 plants by December 2013. The distribution has already begun, and the plants are available to anyone who is interested.

Students of the facility have also Dionne Cush describes the Moringa as “a begun raising a public awareness miracle tree”. campaign, visiting different community , seen in the many products, youth groups and parent teachers associations. pharmaceuticals included, which use The institution is in the process of creating a its ingredients. recipe book to outline the Moringa’s many uses.

Kata Lovassy, the person responsible for the introduction of the A miracle tree Moringa project in St. Vincent, is Dionne Cush, an Environmental Science currently the team leader for student at RVA, described the Moringa plant as the Climate Compliance “a miracle tree.”

Program.

Cush was speaking while giving a tour of the Lovassy first saw the facility. She referred to studies which have usefulness of such projects declared the plant safe for human and animal when she was an activist in consumption, and as having a high nutritional Africa. content, including vitamins A,B and C, protein, She noted that the tree is calcium, and potassium. an amazing one, which grows According to Cush, the plant is used in the well in St.Vincent, “and it is treatment and prevention of ailments such as very important that everyone cancers, ulcers and arthritis and common gets to see the benefits.”

Influenza.

She testifies to having used “In Africa the people use it to fight the plant to successfully malnutrition,” revealed Cush. The seeds can treat an illness that she had. also be used to purify water instead of the use of The program will see 5,000 Chlorine. plants being distributed on Moringa tea is also popular, and it is the hope the windward side of the of the Academy that the plant would become as island and another 5,000 on popular here as it is in Africa. the leeward side.

The acceptance of the plant worldwise can be

Seedlings of the Moringa tree ready for distribution.

The Moringa tree in cultivation at the Richmond Vale Acadwmy.

Some of the Moringa-based products available in health stores across the world.

V

14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Taiwanese generosity overwhelms scholarship awards to students here.

EVEN after some 32 years A total of 415 primary, of cordial relations with secondary and postthe Republic of China secondary students (Taiwan), the government received what amounted and people of St. Vincent to US$100,000. The 187 and the Grenadines are primary school students still experiencing the received EC$400 each; 169 secondary school students received EC$800; and 59 postsecondary students each received EC$1000.

Chief Education Officer, Ms. Luann Gilchrist, told those present that along with these sums of monies, the government seeks to provide safety nets to assist students in school, inter alia, the subsidized transportation system, Tertiary level scholarship awardees with Education the school feeding Offcials and H.E. Ambassador Weber Shih. programme, book loan

By Gloriah…

generosity of that Far East country.

Last Thursday, 17th October, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) held a Presentation Ceremony at the Peace Memorial Hall, to distribute

Competition was keen in this year’s Spelling Bee competition.

Spelling Bee title goes south AFTER 20 rounds of competition, Anjali John of the Stephanie Browne Primary School emerged victorious in the 15th Annual Rotaract Primary School Spelling Bee Competition, to

claim victory for the Southern Grenadine island of Union Island.

John was one of eight finalists competing in this year’s finals, held on Saturday 19th October, in which , Aldeiah Jacobs

of New Grounds Primary and Cosem Millington of Layou Government placed second and third respectively.

The other schools represented in the finals were Langley Park Government, Brighton Primary, Lodge Village Government, Marriaqua Government and Rose Hall Government.

Each finalist had won the preliminary round in their respective zones.

This year’s competition saw the Rotaract Club partnering with Scotiabank as the major sponsor. Prizes also came from Courts (SVG) Ltd, Digicel, CWSA, Jujubee Book Store, Premier Distributors, Karib Cable, SVG Air and Vitamalt.

Primary and Secondary School scholarship recipients pose with H.E. Ambassador Weber Shih and Minister of Education Girlyn Miguel. scheme, uniform programme and the low and middle income housing scheme.

She implored parents to encourage their children to make a conscious choice of utilizing the meals provided on the school feeding programme, which is ultimately nutritious, providing 1/3 of their daily requirement of nutrients.

She called the Taiwanese “valuable partners in education.”

Ambassador Weber Shih of the Republic of China (Taiwan) congratulated the 415 students on being chosen for the scholarships. He

informed the gathering that the current Taiwanese scholarship programme was guided by a five-year Memorandum of Understanding and, to ensure continuity, this has been renewed for a further five years.

He said that SVG and Taiwan were island economies with the main means of development being education — that which has been a “priority for our cooperation.”

He encouraged the students to continue to study hard, and hoped his government could receive them all as students of higher

education in Taiwan.

Hon. Girlyn Miguel, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Education, identified Taiwan as one of the main partners of her Ministry.

She asked the recipients to remember that “Taiwan has worked hard, and today are able to reach out to students in need.”

She outlined all the other projects with which Taiwan is involved in SVG, and hailed their generosity.

“When you receive your gift,” she cautioned, “remember the word ‘honesty’.”

West St. George alive with activity THE WEST ST. GEORGE constituency, led by its parliamentary representative, Hon. Cecil Mc Kie, is alive with activities catering to the well being of its composite communities.

As part of International Coastal Clean-up Day, September 21, 2013, residents of the community took shovels, rakes and other related implements in hand and, with the support of business entities here, moved on the Great Head Bay (Arnos Vale Beach), where they executed a clean-up of the beach and its The first set of broiler chicks has surroundings. already been handed out to farmers The group also conducted a similar in the West St. George Constituency. exercise at the fall and water pools at Upper Cane Hall.

According to reports, the West St. George clean-up activity was one of many across the state, which the Solid Waste Unit coordinated.

Another Constituency activity in keeping with the need to enhance the environment, as well as encourage endeavours in agriculture, was a Back Yard Garden Residents joined MP Cecil Mc Kie (3rd from left Competition. back row) and former MP Mike Browne (to Mc Some 32 persons Kie’s left) in a clean-up of the Great head Beach. participated and were provided with seeds and The project envisions distributing seedlings to get their gardens going, some 400 broiler chicks among six and were invigorated by the farmers in the area. Feed for the six overriding theme of ‘Eat what you weeks to maturity will also be grow and grow what you eat’. provided.

And towards encouraging an Persons involved in this project are entrepreneurial spirit among expected to turn over profits from the residents of the constituency, a first phase so as to ensure continued chicken rearing project was also involvement and income generation in launched, with the first phase being the future. executed on October 11. The second Support for the poultry project phase is expected to be implemented comes in part from the West St.

by November.

George Diaspora.

V

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

Training

NDF-CDB host Marketing Workshop Marksman-Sterling said one of the expectations of the Workshop was that participants would prepare marketing THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND plans applicable to their respective (NDF), in collaboration with the businesses.

Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), In offering her own assessment of continued to fulfill its commitment to provide its clients with proper marketing the trend in marketing here, knowledge and skills, so as to ensure the Marksman-Sterling lamented that a sustainability and further development of lot of the marketing “is not planned,” Francelia Marksman-Sterling, Chief Facilitator, (standing) in session with that there were “a lot of copy cats.” their businesses.

She cited the need to customize and Workshop participants.

The latest effort in this regard was personalize and to indulge in serious a five-day workshop which began on She recognized that training is strategic planning.

Monday at the Murray’s Height Hotel, always very important, “and with such at Mc Kie’s Hill. The workshop small cost, persons should take NDF presence focused on ‘Marketing Techniques for advantage.”

Small Hotels’.

Among the participants at the Catilda James, Financial Controller workshop was General Manager at the Participation in the workshop was and Training Officer at NDF, is drawn from among operators of Grenadines House, Laela Constantine. optimistic that at the end of the apartments, hotels, guest houses and She is seeking to learn unique ways workshop, the participants would have of marketing her institution, with yachting companies. a proper marketing plan, “ a workable special emphasis on targeting niche plan that can be implemented and Workshop focus markets, and the use of social media bring them success and make them in promotional efforts. more efficient.”

Francelia Marksman-Sterling, the She is especially anxious about the She said NDF has had a long primary facilitator at the workshop, workshop, given the slowdown in relationship with CDB, and together said the training manual employed business and her need to find new they are committed to train as many was the result of two regional ‘train ways to attract customers. the trainers’ workshops. The manual people as possible, “so that the impact The workshop concludes today.

Roxanne Browne (left) and Catilda is expected to be used in all Caribbean can be much wider.”

The NDF is celebrating its 30th Roxanne Browne, one of the CDB member countries. anniversary this year, and a fun walk James, NDF personnel with responsibility for co-ordination of the Among the main workshop modules coordinators of the workshop, has been planned for November 9. explained her task as being inclusive were: understanding marketing; the Persons are being encouraged to show Workshop. of one of ensuring the workshop importance of marketing initiatives; their support. offers credit financing and technical standard is in keeping with CDB’s attracting the right customers; and, Besides offering training, the NDF expectations. support to small and micro businesses. networking with local organizations.

by KENVILLE HORNE

More Mustique assistance for students from UWI, was on hand last Wednesday, at the UWI Open Campus, to GRAHAM GREAVES is offer encouragement to the first tertiary level the three most recent graduate from among the recipients of MCT many who have received bursaries.

Mustique Charitable The three are Omari Trust (MCT) bursaries.

David, Carenda Davis The Sion Hill resident and Laura Richards. and First Class Honours If the three new graduate in Accounting recipients wanted any

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

reminder of what their course of study will be like, Greaves, employed at Décor Products, gave them an opener.

“It is going to be hard,” Greaves outlined.

He described the period of study as a “challenge.,” He advised the new students to “Don’t aim to

just pass, aim for the A plus,” and encouraged them to work hard, do research, show dedication and keep focus.

Working in groups he said will be helpful, and reminded the bursary recipients that, “it is what you put in. The investment is yours. It is your work, your results.”

The recipients

(From left): Omari David, Lavinia Gunn, Administrator of the MCT, Carenda Davis, Laura Richards and Deborah Dalrymple, Head of the UWI Open Campus, at last Wednesday’s presentation of bursaries.

Omari David works at Logistics at the St. Vincent Brewery. A former Community College and Grammar School student, David is working on his BSc Management Studies at the University of the West Indies Open Campus.

David, from Green Hill in Central Kingstown, recognized that “hard work brings success.”

Carenda Davis is working on her BS. in Accounting. A former

Girls’ High School and Technical and Vocational Educational Community College student, Davis admitted, “I just love Accounting.”

She served at the Belair Primary School for three years in the Youth Empowerment Service Programme. She used that avenue to indulge in community work, and started a Brownies Pack there. She moved to the Beachcombers Hotel from where she enlisted for UWI Studies.

Laura Richards is a teacher at the St. Joseph’s Convent, Kingstown. She is working on a BSc in Youth Development Work.

She attended the Teachers College, and admitted to her passion for working with youth.

She thinks that her degree will make her more “marketable” and will make her “more adaptable with the youngsters.”

Graham Greaves cautioned the bursary recipients that their programmes of study were going to be hard work.

In the acceptance speech on her colleagues’ behalf, Richards pointed out: “You have no idea how far this is going to go.” Richards promised that the Mustique Charitable Trust is “not going to be disappointed.”

The three students received laptops and assistance to the tune of 60 percent of their tuition fees.

16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013 THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 17.

V

18. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Culture

What makes us Vincentian?

Stories by GLORIAH… WE OFTEN HEAR VINCENTIANS SAY, “I am Vincy to the bone”, or “I am 100% Vincy”, and whether it is said in the heat of an exciting event or with the quiet resolve of a determined soul, it instigates a certain level of national pride. THE VINCENTIAN took to the streets to glean the opinions of passers-by about what makes us Vincentians.

MAXINE BROWNE What makes me Vincentian?

The fact that I was born and nurtured here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines makes me Vincentian.

Moreover, I embrace the customs, folklore and traditions of my rich heritage, and in my opinion this also contributes to my status as a Vincy.

More than that, as a proud public servant, I get the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the many students and other people whom I come into contact with on a daily basis. This allows me to impart some of what I’ve learnt as a Vincy, thus molding them into proud Vincentians too. I think these factors really

contribute to my “Vincentian-ness” or my “Vincy pride”. I am proud, very proud to be called Vincentian.

NZINGA SERGEANT There are many things that make us Vincentians.

Our use of language, for example: words like “bo-dow”, “noint”, “mooma”,and “poopa”, are unique to us. Even our closest Caribbean neighbours don’t usually know what we’re saying. Our language is truly Vincy.

Our ability, also, to remain fiercely loyal and unite in times of crisis, like helping our neighbours in times of need, or the way we still look out for our enemies’ children. Our cuisine too, is truly Vincentian. No one else cooks like us: our boileen, callaloo soup, souse, bouljoul; even our KFC tastes better than any other in the region.

ANTHONY THEOBALDS Our culture makes us Vincentian. It is all the little

Jossiah Boob accepting, with a trademark smile, his International Poet of the Year Award from Deborah Dalrymple, Head of the UWI Open campus.

things that somehow impact on the Vincentian approach to life that, at one time is the same as other Caribbean countries, but at other times, has its specifics.

The fact that we live in a Caribbean climate influences us and our behaviour. For example, the money that we earn only has to feed us. We could comfortably, given the warmth of the weather, walk around naked, so a clothing factor is not as essential to our survival nor is a shelter factor, in terms of a built structure that can be heated.

Also, the fact that we live on an island means that individually, for most of us can bathe in the sea or in the river. While these are things that do not impact a 21st Century lifestyle, they are at the back of our psyche, and it affects things like how we treat food.

We have no quarrel with someone getting a breadfruit or a mango from our tree to satisfy their hunger. We do have a problem with them taking seven breadfruits and a bag of mangoes to go down the road to sell from our cultivation.

It is very significant that Vincentians are a welcoming and friendly people in a way that is not a learnt tourism device.

Jenielle Lewis, Woman Poet of the Year, receives her award from Poet/Playwright/Lawyer Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams.

CURTIS KING The typical Vincentian is warm and friendly. He is imbued with a spirit of voluntarism, always willing to extend a helping hand to his neighbour. Fun and laughter is everywhere manifested in his leisure activities, be it a weekend river picnic, a cricket match, fete or lime at the bar or restaurant. Food and drinks are plentiful and these he consumes with little regard for his long term health. There is always a good argument, with cricket, politics, sex and religion among the topics most hotly debated.

The Vincentian takes pride in his home and will spend his last dollar to construct a house beautifully designed but excessively big. Work for him is a priority so far as it can realize for him all those desires he treasures. Family is dear to him, with his children being his pride and joy. He cherishes his membership in his church, lodge or social club. God is never far from his lips.

Kelvin Pompey (right), Male Poet of the Year, accepts his award from poet St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince.

Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams.

Mr. Anthony Theobalds read from his own work indicative of his former Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and that of Andre Auge AS PART OF THE 2ND the work of poets in St. of St. Lucia. Other local acting experience. choosing to do the ANNUAL National Vincent and the poets, including St. Clair Mr. Horne read with ofamous speech of Lady Literary Fair 2013, Grenadines, and to have ‘Jimmy’ Prince, Josiah passion and pride to Macbeth, which she, hosted by the University stalwarts recognized by build up to Mark Lady Macbeth delivered Bobb, and Leroy of the West Indies Open their own peers.

Anthony’s soliloquy: upon receiving word that Providence, read from Campus SVG, in Poet readings were their own work.

“Friends, Romans, her husband was to be done, firstly, from the collaboration with the A new idea called “Pan Countrymen, lend me promoted to Thane of Vincentian Association of works of Shakespeare; and Poetry” was your ears…”, after Cawdor and then King.

Artists Writers and then from the works of Lady Macbeth, believing explored, in which Producers Inc. (VAAWP), ‘Vincentian Master Poets Caesar’s death.

He jubilantly piped in, that her husband was too Rodney Small played “An Evening of Poetry of the 20th Century’, in the voices of the irate ‘soft’ to commit the deed pan, while Lafayette with the Masters’ was and also from current Johnson read poetry to of regicide, sought to held last Friday, 18th local poets reading their citizens, blasting Mark which Juanita Phillips Anthony for trying to thrash out her anger October, on the grounds own work and that of danced. The pan also turn them towards his with her barrage of of the UWI Open others. way of thinking, until malignant thoughts.

Campus, Kingstown. was a feature of the Caesar’s will was found The event followed on Shakespeare entertainment, with and their attitudes were Other readings the theme of the Literary Rodney Small and Extracts from William abated upon realizing Fair, ‘Read! Think!

Reajhaun Baptiste Shakespeare’s Julius that each citizen was Grow!’ and according to An extract from the delivering some pointed Caesar were read by Mr. accorded a sum of money. poetic work of Vincentian pieces to the delight of President of VAAWP John Horne, with a New actor, Gloria Inc., Ms. Rene Baptiste, master poet Danny the appreciative wealth of indulgence Williams, read from it was held to highlight Williams, was read by audience.

An evening of Poetry with the masters

Awards A major part of the evening’s proceedings was the Poetry Awards, coming out of the Writers Flow Poetry organization. The Chatoyer Award was given to Ms. Sharmaine Shallow, who also received the Young Poet of the Year Award. Ms. Jeneille Lewis received the Woman Poet of the Year Award, and Kelvin Pompey received the Male Poet of the Year Award. The International Poet of the Year was awarded to Mr. Josiah Bobb. A National Recognition Award was accorded to Mr. Fitzroy Dowers.

V

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

News

GECCU: Building a new era

to Diplomas’ foundation, through which they will be recognition for their saving prowess and be involved in various competitions, including design of mobile applications.

Televisions programmes Clarence Harry, President of throughout the period will GECCU, introduced the be enhanced with the programme of activities to mark services of a Sign Language the 50th anniversary. expert.

An Anniversary Award celebration. and Dinner will be a high General Manager Bowman calibre affair and there will announced plans to make be an Inter Credit Union GECCU more “visible” Sports Meet as well as Lennox Bowman, General throughout the region and Heritage Month activities.

Manager, alluded to giving alluded to the use of social Pioneers and stalwarts GECCU a regional presence. media, Facebook and YouTube, will be recognised. Those through which the activities will will include Charles Murray be highlighted. services of a Sign Language Fraser, who was on hand at GECCU early services expert. the launch to take the extended to government Activities to mark the audience down a nostalgic employees only. It broadened to celebration will climax with journey.

Activities the publication of a magazine. include their families and, more, Murray is one of two to accommodate workers of any That edition will condense The calendar of activities is survivors, the other being Ms. category. activities over the period of not finalised for GECCU, Beryl Baptiste, from among according to its General the original twelve who manager Lennox Bowman, is gathered at the Central opened to suggestions from Housing and Planning members.

Authority (C.H.P.A.), for the Among the activity already meeting in 1964 that gave planned is an exhibition birth to GECCU. SOME THIRTY participants of Mrs. Danny-lee Francis and featuring ‘All things GECCU’.

Televisions programmes the 2013 A GANAR programme Mr. Richard Cumberbatch of the Charles Murray Fraser took Youngsters can look throughout the period will celebrated Credit Union Day and Education and Marketing the audience down memory forward to the ‘From Diapers be enhanced with the Financial Literacy Month with a Committee of GECCU shared lane. one-day session organised around information on credit unions and the theme, “Making the most of their role in assisting members your Money’, at the Xpert with savings, barrowing, investments and educational the venture.

87 Schools in the Cooperative Computer Conference Room on Thursday 17th October 2013. opportunities.

As far as Jackson was programme gathered for the Participants of A GANAR Cycle four of The A GANAR concerned, the programme ceremony. programmes the Green Hill programme, coordinated by the served as a platform for Gillan Frederick, Director Sports and Cultural Club Inc. local branch of Partners of the primary and secondary at the Kingstown and the Adult and Continuing Americas, commenced in March school students to start as Cooperative Credit Union Education Unit, joined together and concluded in September entrepreneurs. He pointed to (KCCU) challenged students vegetable and poultry to think of their value. to undertake this exercise, as 2013. By the end of the third production in 17 schools and “He encouraged students part of their personal upliftment phase of the programme praised the General to stay in school, build their programme. participants, should have had: a Employees Cooperative value and earn a decent The one day session covered clear understanding of how to Credit Union for their living. topics such as understanding combine employability and support in the School’s “Continue to save: make financial terms, avoiding debt, vocational skills in the market Cooperative activity. saving a habit; see how you and wise saving practices. These place; completed at least 40 The chord of saving was can create employment for were facilitated by Carlos hours of supervised internship; driven home further by yourself and others,” Williams through practical completed a revised resume; and, President of the Cooperative Frederick indicated. exercises, and were geared opened their own bank accounts.

Junior Bacchus, President League, Junior Bacchus.

Teachers’ commitment to towards getting persons to make The A GANAR participants of the Co-operative League, He suggested that the idea the School’s Cooperative the most of their money as they now await their graduation and of saving was taken for venture came in for special commended teachers for become employed or, seek look forward to join a growing A granted and urged students attention by the St. Vincent their commitment to the GARNAR alumni. and the Grenadines Teachers employment. schools saving programme. to “put aside that recess money.”

Cooperative Credit Union.

Bacchus pointed to Marketing manager Ezekiel Richards. He spoke of a CECIL JACKSON, Registrar benefits which can come in the form of interest.

“Special activity” for of Cooperatives, wants to Teachers were praised for Teachers in the School’s ensure that the practice of savings programme. saving takes root. He pleaded their commitment to the saving programme.

“We recognise your effort. with parents to motivate “We ignore teachers on You are special. We are their children to save. many occasions,” Bacchus looking out for you,” Jackson was speaking at mentioned and contended Richards stated.

Peace Memorial Hall last that the nation stood to Daniel Robertson, week Tuesday at the representing the Police National School Cooperative benefit from the teachers input.

Cooperative Credit Union, Awards ceremony.

The Cooperative wants to ensure that there is He highlighted the Department was also continuity in the cooperative expansion in the thrift complimented by Bacchus. sector. He urged students not A GANAR participants and facilitators of the one-day session on programme at schools and Students from some of the to stop the practice of saving. ‘Making the Most of your Money’. commended those involved in by: WILLIAM KOJAH ANTHONY gave thanks to the Almighty God as he retraced phases of GECCU (General Employees the institution at the launch Cooperative Credit Union) will of celebrations. celebrate its 50th anniversary, He admitted that “we have July 14, 2014, with a 15.month performed,” but acknowledged programme of activities, under that “it was not easy.” the theme, ‘Proud of the past, He praised the prepared for the future’. management and staff for This was disclosed at a sticking to the credit union media launch held at the principles and philosophy, but Credit Union’s Conference warned them against being Room, Kingstown, last week complacent.

Thursday.

“We have to lift our game; President Clarence Harry be vigilant and learn from the past,” Harry stated.

He highlighted GECCU’s products and services and outlined plans to interest in youths in credit union activities, and plans for the construction of a “new modern complex.”

A GANAR participants in oneday money session

Children encouraged to save

V NTRC continues to assist The Maritime Community 20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

radios will complement a larger Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) already in place and functioning.

The is a modern maritime alert system which allows users when in imminent danger to press a button on their VHF portable or mobile radio to send their Technician -J88LE testing radio at Barrouallie position acquired from IN AN EFFORT TO ENSURE the continuing safety and survival of GPS satellites, so that rescue personnel can quickly locate local fishermen, pleasure boat the vessel or persons in owners and the itinerant yachting community who may be distress.

The international GMDSS in distress or difficulty, the system should be fully National Telecommunications operational by 2015, so this Regultory Commission (NTRC) country is well ahead in has placed several VHF marine embracing this new and radios at select locations to vitally important technology. ensure the safety and All new VHF marine radios To this end, the NTRC will now have the GMDSS placed and tested six VHF feature as a standard safety marine radios at Police function.

Stations in Chateaubelair, The NTRC teamed up with Rose Hall, Barroualllie, Paget their long standing ‘friends’ Farm, Owia and Ashton, from the Rainbow Radio Union Island.

League Inc. to install and test The installation of these

these radios. The RRL was also assisted by members of the Telecoms Unit of the RSVG Police Force and a seasoned tower climber, as some of the antennas had to be installed on existing towers used by the police.

The strategic placement of these radios will allow our fishermen and the maritime community in general to make contact with Fort Charlotte or any of these police stations on VHF marine Channel 16, anytime they get into difficulty in our territorial waters, even if they do not Police Officer at Owia making first contact have a GMDSS safety with signal station in St. feature on their existing Lucia - J6MC radios.

The NTRC provided a community. basic fee to cover expenses of According to the travel and meals for the Director of the technicians while also NTRC, Mr. Apollo providing one VHF base radio Knights, the NTRC and two VHF marine is pleased with this handheld radios as a trade off development in lieu of installation fees. knowing that this The base radio is already in infrastructure is an service from the temporary important aspect of RRL HQ in Bequia monitoring maritime safety and maritime traffic 24/7. Radio which can also be amateurs in St. Vincent and used to help reduce the Grenadines often monitor crime in and around the maritime frequencies and our territorial have been instrumental in waters. organising search and rescue Report submitted missions with the assistance of by: Donald De Riggs the Coast Guard, local Director/Secretary fishermen, pleasure boat Climbers on the Rose Hall tower ...

RRL Inc. aeronautical mobile risky business.

Brewery launches Budweiser brand

Raising a toast to Budweiser with Budweiser beer at the launch last week Thursday.

These persons will have the enviable opportunity to experience Rihanna live in concert.

of Anheuser-Busch InBev, acquired the major ownership of St.Vincent Nrewery’s parent company, Cerveceria ST. VINCENT BREWERY Limited is Nacional Dominicana (CND) in the now part of an entity which owns over Dominican Republic.

200 beer brands around the world.

During the launch, Regional On Thursday 17th, the St.Vincent Commercial Manager at the Brewery, Brewery added the popular American Shafia London-Williams, offered beer, Budweiser, to its line of insight into the beer’s origin and the products, with a media launch at marketing strategy and management Jack’s Bar, at the prestigious structure that drive the brand.

Buccuma Bay Resort.

According to London-Williams, the The Budweiser brand belongs to Budweiser brand has grown to become the Anheuser-Busch InBev Company, one of the highest selling beers in the which conceptualized the beer in 1876. United States, and is available in over On May 11, 2012, Ambev, a subsidiary 80 markets worldwide.

By: KENVILLE HORNE

“Budweiser continues to expand market share in the UK, China and Canada, and now in the Caribbean,” London-Williams said.

The brand is currently engaged in an ambitious marketing strategy which includes celebrity endorsements. Among the celebrities on the Budweiser advertising list are Barbadian singing sensation Rihanna, rapper Jay-Z and international pop and R&B singer, Justin Timberlake.

Meanwhile, six persons, including the Simple Sounds DJ family and a representative from the media, will travel to Barbados for the ‘RIHANNA

Shafia London-Williams introduced Budweiser beer as one of highest selling beers in America.

DIAMONDS TOUR’, scheduled for November 01.

Even as Vincentians are already being offered a wider variety of beer brands, , London-Williams appealed to beer drinkers to get a hold of the great tasting Budweiser beer, that is now on sale at $6.00 per bottle and $96.00 a case.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 21 .

News

SVG has a good ILO track record

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES “had a very good track record for submitting reports on time and fulfilling its reporting obligations to the ILO.” This was the praise showered on this country by Pierre-Francois Recoing, Recording Specialist in the International Standards and Labour Law at the ILO. Mr. Recoing was speaking at a cross-sectoral workshop on International Labour Standards and Reporting Obligations, held in Barbados, October 8 — 10, 2013.

In fact, Barbados Minister of Labour, Senator Dr. Esther Byer Suckoo, said openly at the workshop that, “Barbados officials were jealous of the reporting record of St. Vincent and the Grenadines … when they travelled to Geneva and other places and they looked at reports and saw how far behind Barbados is lagging.”

This country was represented at the Workshop by Steve Stewart, Senior Labour Economist in the Department of Labour and a Barrister-at-Law, the

person entrusted with the responsibility of preparing and submitting reports to the ILO. Stewart not only came in for special recognition for his consistency and professionalism in his actual reporting, but he was also invited to share with the workshop this country’s experience in preparing ILO reports.

Stewart had previously been a resource person at a similar ILO Workshop held in Grenada, June 11 — 13, 2013.

As far as the purpose of the Workshop was concerned, it was aimed at creating heightened awareness that member countries had a reporting obligation to the ILO, and to serve as an opportunity to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for providing speedy and accurate reports.

Workshop participants noted that

Music students to be awarded

Those attending next Tuesday’s Music Association ceremony will have an opportunity to see and hear some of the graduates perform.

OVER ONE HUNDRED (100) music students will receive certificates from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, at the Annual Presentation Ceremony to be held on Tuesday, October 29th at 5:00 p.m. at the Peace Memorial Hall in Kingstown.

The students were successful in Music theory exams held in November 2012 and in June 2013, and in practical exams held in April this year.

The Presentation Ceremony is held each year as part of the National Independence Calendar of Activities.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Music Association, in conjunction with the Local Representative of ABRSM, cordially extends an invitation to members of the public, and takes this opportunity to wish everyone a peaceful and happy 34 years of Independence.

sometimes the reporting agency (e.g. Ministry or Department of Labour) had difficulty getting the information from the different stakeholders; that the information existed but was not passed on in a timely manner to the reporting agency.

Steve Stewart, Senior Economist in the Department of Labour, came in for special recognition for ensuring SVG complies with its reporting obligations to the ILO.

The Workshop participants committed themselves and their agencies to a renewed effort to address this tardiness which, for example, is represented by the fact that Barbados has some 13 outstanding reports.

V

22. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Karib Cable donates to Lewis Punnett Home KARIB CABLE, not yet trading under the name FLOW, the trading name of its new owners Columbus Communications, continued its community outreach programme last Friday.

Headed by Sales Executive James Ballantyne, staff members of the cable television service

provider converged on the Lewis Punnett home, a residential care unit located in Glen that caters primarily to needy elder citizens, where they made a donation of a quantity of toiletries, household cleaning and personal care items.

A handshake between Sr. According to Karen Crilgeows, Ward Ballantyne, the Sister at the Home, and donation is valued at James Ballantyne, Sales over EC$4,500.00, and Executive KC, seals the is the result of an presentation and initiative of the staff, acceptance of the and supported by donation. management.

He described the latest effort as another demonstration of an ongoing community assistance initiative, which forms part of the overall Corporate Responsibility drive of the Company.

“This is an effort of the staff of Karib Cable driven by the energy of Columbus’ FLOW,” said Ballantyne at Friday’s presentation, and he alluded to the donation as being the beginning of a lasting relationship with the Home.

The Lewis Punnett donation follows closely on ones made to the National Society of and for the Blind, the Salvation Army’s Children’s Home at Buccament and the Kingstown Government School.

Customers of Karib Cable can look forward to enticing Christmas promotions.

Staff at the Levi Latham Health Centre and Fidel Caesar (right) at the presentation.

Clinics receive medical supplies THE MEDICAL RELIEF ASSOCIATION INC., a local non-profit organization, donated a sizable quantity of medical supplies to the Mesopotamia, Evesham and Richland Park clinics, and also to the Levi Latham Health Centre.

Fidel Caesar, head of the organization, handed over the supplies which included bandages, sutures, laceration kits, syringes and other muchneeded items, at a brief handing over ceremony at the Levi Latham Health Centre on Tuesday 24th September 2013.

The supplies were secured as a donation from project CURE and Team 5 Foundation from the USA. Both organizations recently participated in a medical mission trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines organized by the Medical Relief Association.

Receiving on behalf of the clinics were registered nurses Labban and Weekes.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Property investments, insurance, tax rebates, or inheritance should bring you financial gains. Speak of your future goals, intentions, and commitments. Take some time out. Take your time before making personal decisions.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Draw up contracts regarding your personal situation. Your mate may not have been honest with you. Throw yourself into your work. Your partner may push buttons that infuriate you.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You have been going through a period of change that has caused problems for you with your loved ones. Your family may be feeling neglected and unloved. This will be a very hectic day if you've made promises to too many people. Lack of funds may add stress to your already uncertain situation.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your ability to visualize will help you convince others of the possibilities.

Make the necessary changes that will enable you to advance financially.

Secret affairs could cause upset. Minor health problems may lower your vitality.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You will impress others with your initiative and ability to accomplish while on short business trips. Watch your tendency to live for the day and to spend too much on entertainment and children; it could set you back. Try not to be too harsh with loved ones; there will always be two sides to an Issue.

Confusion could result when communicating with others.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You need adventure and excitement in your life. Concentrate on your career and on making money. Property investments should payoff. You may be experiencing emotional turmoil in regard to your mate.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will have to make some changes

regarding your direction if you wish to keep on top of your career expectations.

You will be prone to carelessness that could result in accidents. Residential moves will be favorable, and larger quarters the most probable direction.

Don't let your emotions interfere with your professional integrity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You are best not to nag or criticize. You may want to have a heart-to-heart talk with a close and trusted friend.

Promotions will be yours if you have acted professionally in times of crisis.

Don't push your luck with authority figures.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You need an outlet that will help take your mind off any troubles at work. You have so much to offer; open up and let your thoughts be known. Opportunities for new friendships are apparent. You are best to tuck your money away where no one will be able to touch it, including yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your mate needs extra attention and is feeling rather insecure when you're not in sight. Your support and concern will help. Travel will be favorable. Don't exhaust yourself or minor health problems will set in. You can bet officials will be waiting for you when you do.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Take the time to do something nice for your friends and relatives. If you're single, get out there and you'll meet someone new. Try to do your job and then leave. Relationships will become stronger.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your sensitive, affectionate nature will capture the heart of anyone you are attracted to. Your communication skills may win you points. You can come up with future trends in creative fields. Take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives.

ACROSS 1. Laptop maker (abbr.)

4. Etching substances 9. Tanner’s material 13. Hotel cleaner 15. “Ben __” 16. Sector 17. Form of wrestling 18. “Zorba” actor Anthony 19. Kilmer and others 20. Forewarning 21. Ship’s letters 22. Without secrecy 24. He loved an Irish Rose 26. Small, annoying Insect 27.Shakespearean play 30. Barn jumping-off place 33. Elude 34. Crooner Mel 35. Relieved sounds 37. Fishing gear 38. Globe 39. Contribute to crime 40. Set up 41. Huck and Mickey 43. Roberts of “Pretty Woman”

44.

46.

47.

48.

Dethrones Arid region God of love Berra’s glove 49. Wooden keg 52. Rocker Jon __ Jovi 53. Caribous’ cousins 57. Glance 58. Ohio port of entry 60. Racetrack enclosure 61. History’s Boleyn 62. Gibe 63. Singer James 64. Cabbage 11. Small unit valley 65. Door sign 12. “__ does 66. Guess at a it!” price (abbr.) 14. Trump and Sutherland DOWN 23. Pallid 1. “__ Excited” 25. Quilting (2 wds.) event 2. Writer L. 26. Clothes Frank 27. Frau’s 3. Wordless spouse actor 28. Duck 4. Find “not 29.Commercial guilty” manicurist 5. Bring about 30. Traffic 6. Egyptian beepers deity 31. Fairy tale’s 7. Fox’s lair kin 8. Opposite of 32. Belonging antonym to them 9. Must (2 34. Sounds wds.)

36. Hospital 10. Formerly talk for Persia “quick”

39. Ascetic 41. Golfer’s warning 42. Cut off from society 43. NY footballer 45. Livened (up) 46. “My __ with Andre” 48. Bullwinkle, for one

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 23.

49. Humdrum 50. Excellent (2 wds.)

51. Barrett of Hollywood 52. Unruly child 54. Better __ than never 55. Outfits 56. Blind strip 59. Boxer Norton

V

24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Missing school

Dear George, My 13-year-old son has been skipping school, and this in not like him. The school contacted me about it, and when I asked him the reason, he just remained silent. He had always been a boy who liked school, and I am beginning to believe he is probably led away by his wayward friends. He never was a boy who had many friends, but I think he is up to something.

I gave him a sound beating, but that seemed not to even shake him,

because he is still missing school. I do not know what else to do, and it has me very stressed out.

Dear George,

Worried Mother Dear Worried Mother,

school when they have unspoken issues with the teacher.

You need to visit the Explore these teacher, with your son, possibilities and see and have a talk with her. You cannot discount where it takes you.

Another option is to the possibility of meet with a social bullying. Sometimes when children are being worker who can help to do the type of exploration bullied, their way of dealing with it is to avoid that is necessary to get to the bottom of this. school altogether.

Beating your son will Children also do skip

Untouched by my husband

not solve the problem and if it is a case where he is fearful of going to school for whatever reason, driving more fear into him can only compound the problem.

George

MY HUSBAND is strange! We just got married, and on our wedding night, he was too drunk to do anything, so I slept through the night without him touching me. The next day after he sobered up, I told him about it, and he told me that I should have just pleasured myself to sleep.

The second night, we got into an argument and he again refused to have sex with me. It has been 12 nights now that he has not touched me, and he tells me that if I can’t deal with it, I know where to go. I am beginning to ask myself exactly for what reason did he marry me! I asked him and he is not even saying “BIP” to me! I feel trapped and annoyed.

Shocked Dear Shocked, You do not have to remain trapped in a case like this. I do not know how much pre-marital counseling you received, if any, but understandably so, you will have lots of questions.

Since the marriage has not been consummated, then you should know that alone is legitimate grounds for an annulment. Seeing that your husband seems to be too BUSY to focus on you, I suggest that you HANG UP and DIAL AGAIN!!

George

Finding pleasure outside of marriage have made a commitment to your husband, and you need to honour that commitment. Yes, it is true that this MY MARRIAGE of three years has fling was responsible for ushering in a had a normal sex life, nothing out of world of oral pleasure, but it may the ordinary. However, I have always come at a price. Actions are often refused my husband’s requests for oral accompanied by consequences, and sex. He was frustrated, but I just was you need to consider what may be the not interested! consequences to you engaging in a It so happened that I cheated on sexual relationship with someone him with this guy I knew a long time other than your husband. ago. We never told each other over If this terrible secret bothers you to the years how we felt about each the point where it is affecting the way other. When he did tell me, we were you relate to your husband, then you alone for some unplanned reason, and need to deal with it and come clean. we ended up having sex. It was the What is most important for you to do best sex of my entire life! What I is to forget about this guy and focus on found strange was that I had no your husband, and together try to find hesitation engaging in oral sex at all! ways to further enhance your bedroom I absolutely loved it! life. You two need to rediscover each I went back to my husband and other, and in doing this, you will find have been giving him oral pleasure that your husband will be as since then. He is happy, but I am stimulating as he once was when you feeling a bit guilty. Worse, I have a first met. deep urge to have another fling with this guy because of how well he can George perform.

I am afraid that if I tell my husband about this, he will go nuts and may want to leave the marriage, and that is not what I want. On the other hand, I am not sure if I am done with this other guy as yet! What should I do?

Dear George,

Sugar and Spice Dear Sugar and Spice, You are forgetting one thing: you

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 25.

Litertary Arts

OÊMarde takes his rightful place away from inciting and insightful readings by O’Marde and genuine, commendable reviews by Lenny Daisley (of ‘Nobody Go Run Me’) and Dr. Adrian Fraser (of ‘Send Out You hand’).

In the absence of the reviews by Daisley and Fraser, and with THE VINCENTIAN still to make its own review, we offer the following assessment of the O/Marde’s work.

focused on the masses, the ‘sufferers’, the ghettoes; Dorbrene’s lens gives us a view of a different segment of Caribbean society, the middle class intellectual, the UWI mafia, the regional businessmen, the artists… . . “His ‘fictional’ characters are drawn with greater colour and depth as he realistically portrays the different character types and the subtleties of personal relationships in 21st century Caribbean ‘Send Out You hand’ life……

‘SEND OUT YOU HAND’ Of ‘Send Out You hand’, and its note of hope is like Antigua Sports more than a breath of fresh Commentator, Cultural air; it represents a call to worker and Rastafrian, rise above the narrow Franki Mwalimu Kwame xenophobia that sometimes Tafari, says: “Dorbrene plagues us and to renew our takes us on a trip through commitment to the unity the Caribbean landscape, which is already expressed not only geographical and by the people but is yet to topographical but political be realized by our leaders.” and social realities and ‘Nobody Go Run You” spaces as well, highlighting Of ‘Nobody Go Run You’, the various Caribbean D. Giselle Isaac, Speaker of personalities, their nuances the House in Antigua and and cadences of accents, Barbuda, says: their similarities and their “I felt that this work was differences… .. a chronicle, not so much of “Much of early Caribbean Short Shirt’s life and times, writing however has but of the times and the lives lived within the span and sphere of his influence…

“It is an exhaustively researched piece of work that pulls from commentary; documented facts; personal conversations and persons’ archives; and social, political and religious review, all placed in a national, regional or international context, as applicable.

“For I also learned that our calypsonians, in their own country, had to fight to taste the honey in the rock called the tourism industry, having to tussle with the likes of Sparrow and Melody and Brynner, and bringing to birth the 1963 calypso Parasites, written

by Marcus Christopher.

Growing up Caribbean, I knew well — and Dorbrene documents it even Dorbrene O’Marde’s first novel, ‘Send Out You Hand’ better — that not in

DORBRENE E. O’MARDE, an Antiguan-born indefatigable Caribbean cultural worker, has joined the ranks that many say he should have done a long time ago.

O’Marde, renowned playwright, director and producer (theatre and music), newspaper/magazine columnist, speaker and a calypso writer, judge and analyst, was in Kingstown, October 19, to launch two publications: the novel ‘Send Out You Hand’; and a biography (authorised) ‘King Short Shirt Nobody Go Run We: The life and times of Sir Maclean Emanuel’, works that signal his joining and acceptance into the fraternity of Caribbean authorship.

The book launch was part of the UWI Open Campus Literary Fair 2013 and followed, from all reports, impressive launches and consequent raving reviews of the latest Caribbean literary works in Dominica and Barbados.

That there might have been sparse attendance at the launch did not take

Dorbrene O’Marde Antigua & has offered two Barbuda, not books which even in reviewers say progressive have much more Trinidad & Tobago, was the within their covers . female agenda on anyone’s front burner, politically, socially, or otherwise.

I am grateful for Dorbrene’s treatment of race in this book: how he puts the burgeoning race pride of Antiguans and Barbudans and, indeed, Caribbean Negroes (yes, Negroes; it’s a word that I love) in the context of the dawning self-value that was taking place in this region and further afield.

“Congratulations and thank you, Dorbrene, for a fine work. I can feel the love you put in it.

And, as my good friend and yours, Val Hodge, would say, ‘It sweet me bad’.”

Dorbrene O’Marde’s books are available for purchase locally at The authorized biography of Antigua’s calypso Jujube Bookstore. genius, King Short Shirt.

V

26. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

People

Carr: A patriot if ever there was one He is uncertain as to the reason why “A look around so many Kingstown shows businesses are little signs of being “so independence. unpatriotic,” There are only a but pointed to a small number of few our national flags, possibilities. but most of the “Could it be business places they are selfhave nothing centered, or pertaining to things not independence, and going their this is our 34th way, so they do Everton ‘Shortman’ Carr not see anniversary.” want all Vincentians themselves as THIS IS THE VIEW to be proud of being their independence.

Of Everton independent?”

‘Shortman’ Carr, a he posited. self-employed and proud Drawing from his Vincentian. experience of living in Every Christmas, Carnival Grenada, Carr painting a and Independence “season,” picture which told of vehicles Carr happily displays SVG’s adorned with the Grenada most recognized symbol, our flags, and the business places nation’s flag, outside, his home well decorated in national and business located just a colours. “It’s a sense of pride,” house away from the Roman the professional joiner Catholic Cathedral, on North contended.

River Road. by: KENVILLE HORNE

A colonial past According to Carr, this country has achieved a lot since independence, “so much so that we make our own decision.”

From 1763 until its independence in 1979, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines passed through various stages of colonial status under the British. The country was granted Associated Statehood

by Britain on 27 October 1969.

This allowed complete control over its internal affairs but was short of full independence.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became the last of the Windward Islands to gain independence. Independence came on the 10th anniversary of Saint Vincent’s associate statehood status, October 27, 1979.

Carr has been around since the days of colonial rule by England, his grey beard and hair offering evidence of this.

He made clear that during that time the colonial masters

“made all the decisions; now we make our own, they don’t dictate for us anymore.”

His understanding of our history tells him that Carr’s house and business adorned with “the English flags and bunting reflecting the nation’s ripped Vincentians off colours and pride. with bananas. bookshelves that are We were doing business with authentically Vincentian. them in banana, then they After all, he strives to be came with non-preferential independent a self-employed treatment and licked us out businessman. the market. So we suffered But most importantly he through that. And they believes that we are to feel enslaved us so long, now we are getting out of bondage, so proud as a nation for our why can’t we be proud of being many accomplishments over independent?” the Kingstown the last 34 years , and one of the ways in showing this is to resident questioned.

There is no doubt that this “dress in our national colors, wave our flags high, decorate joiner is contributing to the development of the nation. He our buildings, including business houses, love each produces items such as other, and feel proud to be a interior and exterior doors, Vincentian.” windows, stairs, tables,

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 27.

Football keeps rendezvous with chaos questions were raised about questionable practices by past FOOTBALL, LONG considered the administrators, with regard to most popular sport in St. Vincent the Federation’s finances. and the Grenadines, has However, unlike the past religiously, since in the early incidents when fingers were 1970s, kept its appointment pointed at more than one with chaos and confusion at the individual for dodgy administrative level. operations, this time President And true to expectations, Venold Coombs is the one the Venold Coombs-led required to answer what some executive has kept this have described as “the rendezvous with the latest uncomfortable questions.” revelation surrounding the management of the finances of A defiant president the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football But the president, known to Federation-SVGFF. be a defiant and According to information as uncompromising man, was per documents sent by true to form in his response to Auditing firm BDO (copies of the concerns in an interview which are now in the public with Kenton Chance of Idomain) to the SVGFF, there Witness News. are concerns raised about “Auditors always ask for sums in excess of two hundred information when they are thousand Eastern Caribbean doing work. It is nothing new. dollars (EC$200,000).

I have been in all kinds of The auditors in their organizations, government, correspondence are seeking statutory bodies and all kinds information relating to of different things and auditors ‘Supporting disbursements ask all the time for statement,” during 2012 totaling Coombs reportedly told IEC$95,205” from the Witness News.

Federation’s savings account And according to the media at St. Vincent Co-operative house report, Coombs accused Bank Ltd’. “rejected elements,” some of In addition, the auditors are whom are “perhaps requesting information on an intellectually challenged and amount totalling $106,838 to dishonest,” – whom he did not one of the Federation’s identify – of wanting to sully accounts. the name of the sport.

While the latest situation And the I-Witness News has grabbed the attention of report also quoted Coombs as many, followers of the sport’s saying that, “Every single history point to a number of thing at the bank is above other instances when board. And you can corroborate

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

this with the treasurer because you cannot withdraw any money without two signatures.

You have past presidents allowed one signature … but not this executive here.”

Information reaching THE VINCENTIAN last month indicated that some members of the executive were also concerned with aspects of the financial venold Coombs, President of the management of the SVGFF, and convened a SVGFF, insists that the meeting in the absence of management of the Federation’s finances is above board.

Coombs who was out of state.

Reports say in that meeting have been avoided if they had been more forceful in ensuring a number of decisions were agreed upon, including calling that regulations were followed. for more transparency and Emergency Executive Meeting professionalism in financial transactions.

The SVGFF has set the date One source told THE of November 5th for an AGM, VINCENTIAN that the decisions were conveyed to the but in prelude of what may president who agreed to abide transpire with regard to the by them. However, the source future of the current executive, a release was issued by two indicated since that, most of what was agreed upon has not committee members, Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois and Yolande been followed by Coombs.

London, on Tuesday.

The situations has left The statement read: “We executive members in a are requesting an urgent quandary, some suggesting Emergency Executive Meeting that the president be forced to discuss the status with the out of office, and others implementation of the contemplating tabling their Executive Motion of 7th resignations in what may September 2013 and the appear to the public as financial situation of the FF re ‘jumping ship”.

Legal battles and Auditor’s One member of the Request and Reports. executive has admitted that “This meeting we hope will the current situation could

Record entries for Independence Table Tennis Tourney A RECORD 94 PLAYERS have registered to take part in this weekend’s Scotabank Independence Table Tennis Championships, which serves off at the West St. George Secondary School Friday evening.

According to a release from the Association, there are 26 players down to take part in the Under 16 Boys, five in the Under 16 girls, five in the Under 13 girls and 21 in the Under 13 boys.

In addition, there are twelve in the Under 10 boys, seven Under 10 girls as well as 14 men’s seniors and four senior females.

Local Table Tennis officials say it is the first time that the SVG TTA is holding a tournament with

this number of entries and in these age categories.

Last week top international financial institution Scotiabank took up the offer to sponsor the tournament after getting positive feedback on the Business House tournament of which they were the main sponsors.

A spokesman for the Association told THE VINCENTIAN that they were extremely happy with the support they are getting from the Bank.

In addition to the Independence Championships, he said the bank has been positive about the possibilities of assisting with the youth programme.

The tournament gets

going from 2pm at the West St. George Secondary School, with action in the Men’s Senior Singles; Men’s Doubles and Female Senior Singles.

The Juniors (Under16 years) and Cadet Juniors (13 and under) will commence 9:00 a.m.

Saturday October 26,with the students from Belair, Gomea, Brighton and Belmont Primary Schools in competition.

All Finals in the senior categories will be played on Saturday Evening 26th starting at 4:30 p.m. and ending with presentations to the winners.

Sean Stanley and Ruddy Daniel are the persons assigned to oversee the tournament.

Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois is one of two Committee members who have called for an emergency Executive meeting. take place no later than this Thursday 24th regardless of the absent from State of any member(s). Failure to have this meeting or depending on the outcome of same we may have no choice but to make our personal positions (Which may differ from that of the President or executive) on these matters clear to the Affiliates and general public.

“Trust that we will all see the wisdom and need for us to address these matters as one ASAP so as to stop the haemorrhage that taking place publically with football and the tarnish to all our reputations.”

Coombs was elected in October 2010 to replace Joseph Delves. He beat businessman Michael John and football coach Patrick Horne in a three-way fight.

Domino into semi-final round AFTER SEVEN WEEKS of intense competition, the 2013 Hairoun/Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club Domino Competition enters its semifinal round this weekend.

Top of the table RSVG Police Force takes on CWSA, 4th place finishers, in one semi-final today, Friday 25th October at 6:00 pm. The other semi-final matches 2nd placed Transport and Works RSVG Police (long side) played against 3rd placed SVG unbeaten through the preliminary Port Authority on Saturday round of the competition.

26th, at 4:00pm. defeated Transport and Works 25 The semi-finals are set for the to 17.

Thomas Saunders Secondary Transport and Works had the School. easiest of wins when St. Vincent In the final preliminary round Brewery failed to show up for of matches played last weekend, Port Authority edged ECGC in the their game.

The grand finale of the closest of encounters, 25 to 24. competition is scheduled for ECGC also went under to SVG Coast Guard 17 to 15, and CWSA November 2, 2013.

V Browne sinks News Spartans 28. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

A TIMELY half century and a two wicket haul by national opener Atticus Bowne helped seal a 28-run victory for Victors 1 over News Spartans in the National Lotteries Authority 20/20 national cricket competition last weekend.

Victors One compiled 172 for 3 in 18 overs, led by an unbeaten 76 from Atticus Browne, with good support from Donwell Hector with 48 not out.

Basil Andrews took 2 for 27.The News Spartans replied with 144 in 17.2 overs. Renaldo Coombs hit 30 and Newborn Joseph 29. Kennett Dember took 3 for 14 and Atticus Browne 2 for 20.

And it was to be an ill-fated weekend for News Spartans as they also suffered a 99 runs loss at the hands of Ishallz Byam’s Physical Therapy at Buccament. Ishallz Byam’s Physical Therapy made 174 for 8 off 20 overs. Ronique Laborde hit 31, and Donald Delpesche and Javed Harry each hit 29. Terron Simmon took 2 for

15. The News Spartans were then skittled out for 75 in 18 overs. Donald Delpeche grabbed 4 for 8 and Jevan Samuel 3 for 4.

Also recording wins on the weekend were Guardian General Saints and Team Rivals with two wins each, and Police Two with one.

Saints’ first victory came over Police 2, whom they beat by 5 wickets.

Scores: Saints 121 for 8 in 20 overs — Romel Currency 27, Kenroy Peters 24, with Donson Andrews taking 4 for 7; Police 2 104 for five — McLeon Williams 47, Salvan Browne 37, with Kenroy Peters and Iassa Haywood having 2 wickets each.

Guardian General Saints’ second win came at the expense of Bequia.

Scores: Bequia 109 for 8 in 20 overs — Olanzo Bailey 53, Jerry Ollivierre 30, Peters and Rolando Wright claiming 2 wickets apiece; Saints 110 for 5 in 17 overs — Sunil Ambris 43, Romel

Currency 41, Jerry Ollivierre 3 for 33.

(See more on this match on this page) Team Rivals downed Victors Two by 53 runs. Scores: Rivals 151 for 7 in 20 Atticus Browne hit 76 Mcleon Williams hit 85 not overs — Asif Hooper for Victors One. out for Police Two. 29, Deighton Butler 24, with Adinal 86 runs. Scores: Police Two Richards taking 2 for 24; Victors Two 179 for 4 off 20 overs - McLeon 98 for 8 in 20 overs — Denson Hoyte Williams 85 not out, Kevin Abraham 22, Deighton Butler 2 for 26.

46, Kaman Greene 2 for 24; Radcliffe Team Rivals recorded their second Too 93 all out in 17 overs, Romarno win against Bequia: Scores: Rivals 150 for 7 off 20 overs - Hyron Shallow Peirre 31, Donson Andrews had 3 for 5, Kenroy Martin 3 for 21 and Kevin 44 and Asif Hooper 31, Jenry Abraham 3 for 21.

Ollivierre took 3 for 20; Bequia 66 in The Police 1 against 16.1 overs - Dean Browne 23, Olanzo Smashers match at Park Hill was Jackson 3 for 10, Asif Hooper, Deighton Butler and Casmon Walters abandoned because of a wet outfield.

2 wickets each.

I.B.A.ALLEN Radcliffe Too lost to Police Two by

Bellingy grabs centre stage with one hand

Orlando Bellingy has made it a habit of hoisting sixes with one hand.

ORLANZO BELLINGY’s ability to hit the ball out into the stands and out of the main Arnos Vale Playing Field with one hand on the bat, has been a much discussed feature in the Neil Williams T20 competition over the last few years.

And on Sunday last, those gathered at the venue were able to witness this feat as the Bequia power hitter did so on no less than five occasions, in his meaty half century which included half a dozen sixes.

Playing against Guardian General Saints in a must win match, Bequia were beaten by

five wickets to miss out on a quarter-final berth.

Batting first Bequia were restricted to 109-8 in their 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to take first knock on what was a below average pitch with uneven bounce. Guardian General Saints then reached 110-5 in the 17th over with Sunil Ambris hitting a topscore of 43.

Bequia were indebted to the muscle-bound Bellingy for their eventual total after they had got off to a pedestrian start being 9-0 off the first five overs and 28-1 in the first

GTC hosts ‘Tennis for Hope’ The Grassroot Tennis Club (GTC) continues to create grand slams in its ‘Tennis for Hope’, a fun tennis event created by GTC founder, Grant Connell, as a contribution to the fight against cancer.

The event was held last year for the first time and was successful to the extent that the GTC raised $5000.00, which it donated to the SVG Medical Association.

The GTC has repeated the feat this year. Antonio Caine, one of GTC’s leading junior regional tennis champs, presented a cheque for $5000.00 to Dr. Ambrose of

the SVG Medical Association.

With an expanded vision this year, the GTC invited leading regional tennis coaches, Richie Hughes from Grenada and Dean White from St. Lucia, to the event.

With the iconic pink tennis balls in service, “one-racquet doubles” was the game of the day. The fun game saw duos such as the likes of Digicel star player Juno Deroche having fun on court with GTC head coach Trevor Sam and Grant Connell with Simon Carey of Sunsail.

The event was attended by Governor General, Sir Frederick Ballantyne. Michael

Nanton, consultant, tennis historian and commentator, also graced the event with his presence.

New president of the St.Vincent Lawn Tennis Association, Myles Boyea, was also present and commended Connell and the GTC team for staging the event. This year’s ‘Tennis For Hope’ was sponsored by Sunsail, Evian and Digicel.

Grant Connell says plans are in play to stage ‘Tennis For Hope’ next year in Grenada, St. Lucia as well as on GTC’s home courts.

eight.

However, Bellingy arrived at the wicket at the fall of the first wicket and set about displaying his one-hand sixhitting exhibition, which was first seen in 2011 at the same venue.

He began by lofting Lesron Samuel into the Mike Findlay stand, then Ray Charles just short of the sightscreen at the Bequia End of the field, Kentish Phillips over midwicket, before hitting Romel Currency twice into the Sir Phillip Veira Pavilion, one of which landed in the VIP area. His final six played with two hands was a brutal pull off a faster ball from Currency which struck the President’s Suite with such a force it rebounded on the field 20 metres.

In his innings of 53, he struck six sixes and one four and saw his team to 102-4. He was dismissed in the 16th over. However, with his demise and the return of the experienced Kenroy Peters and Rolando Wright, Bequia could only eke out another seven runs off the last four overs.

Opener Genre Ollivierre got 30 but took a long time doing.

Peters took 2-8 in his four overs and Wright, who had Bellingy stumped, took 2-11 from his four. dGuardian General Saints,

The experience Kenroy Peters ensured victory for Guardian General Saints. still smarting from a shock defeat to lowly Triumph Cricket Club at the same venue three weeks ago, batted sensibly in getting to the target, with Ambris hitting four fours and a six in his 43 before attempting a loose shot and being stumped with four runs needed.

Ollivierre took 3-33 from four with his offspin.

In an earlier match, Bequia went under to Team Rivals by 83 runs SCORES: Team Rivals: 149 for 7 off 20 overs, Hyron Shallow 44, Asif Hooper 31.

Genre Ollivierre 3 for 20, Braxy Browne 2 for 21, Sherlan Pompey 2 for 24, equia: 66 all out in 16.1 overs, Dean Browne 23, Olanzo Jackson 3 for 10, Asif Hooper 2 for 13, Deighton Butler 2 for 18, Casmon Walters 2 for 20.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 29.

Sports

New dispensation IF THE PLAN to fast track the Caribbean Professional League works out, the championship will begin within three years, according to CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb.

He expressed the need for “economic partners and the support of governments,” in an interview recently.

That will be welcome news for the region.

In the manner in which the Caribbean Premier League has captured the world’s attention, its football counterpart will attract perhaps greater appeal.

We would have to clamour for those English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Russian Turkish, Chinese, Lebanese, or USA leagues to see some of the world stars in action. They could very well be lapped up by the franchises.

It will be avenues for Caribbean players. National teams will benefit with the improved standard of play.

That will result in broader exposure for the talent that undoubtedly abounds in the region.

The Club versus country conflict which is threatening to erode the fabric of many nations, while not completely erased, will have a broader framework for negotiations.

I am hoping that the trend towards galvanising the region into a unit will take greater precedence.

For if governments have to become involved in providing support for such a venture, it will be logical for them to expect something in return.

The organisation of competitions especially of the higher calibre will bolster the policy of sports tourism and contribute to the national and regional economy.

With the infrastructure in place and other logistics, the region might be emboldened to bid for the World Cup. That will be the ultimate dream.

The precedent has been set with the staging of the cricket World Cup. The Caribbean endured a period of unitary transition when the World Cup was staged. The Sunset Legislation carved out the region as one border for us to accommodate that phenomenon.

We have learnt from that experience and will not have to forego our identity in order to adjust to the demands of FIFA in this case as we condescended to the International Cricket Council and relinquished our Caribbean heritage.

If we could shrink our acreage into one space, we could be encouraged to take the bigger plunge into the political reality from whence the springboard will be set for the other bases to be covered.

It is interesting the respect that Webb seems to be gaining when one considers the size of the country from which he hails.

It brings into question the role that Jack warner played over his sojourn. Warner has assumed a different perspective in his native land. He has aspirations on the top political office.

Warner continues to map up his own strategy. How he emerges on the landscape in his homeland is a matter that will be played out in the process of time.

Suffice it to say that the Caribbean, or more specifically Trinidad and Tobago, will be further in the spotlight the more Warner progresses on the political front.

The Caribbean has more than its fair share of drama.

Jamaica provided some when it reached the World Cup in 1998. The regional rivalry intensified when Trinidad and Tobago made the cut in 2006. That was perhaps sixteen years after they almost made it from the November debacle when the Caribbean two-island nation was stunned into oblivion by the USA’s single goal.

One might have thought that the Soca Warriors of 2006 would have been role models in their country from then.

But the showdown which evolved involving the very Jack Warner has perhaps driven some persons to adopt a sceptical approach to their administration.

It is perhaps with that backdrop that Webb’s projections are standing out as encouraging. Let’s hope that it materialises. Four years may not be a long time in seeing to it that everything blends in perfectly. Thereafter it should be smooth sailing, and the Caribbean Professional League will grow into one of the World’s most attractive features.

CupidÊs innings seals Police win HE MAY HAVE fallen 5 short of a century, but Cosnel Cupid’s 95 ensured victory for RSVG Police Masters over Joyette’s Auto/Slater Development Pastures Masters by 71 runs in the NLA/Neil Williams 20/20 Cricket Competition on the weekend.

Police compiled 143 for 4 off 20 overs, with good support for Cupid coming from Frankie Joseph 27. Frederick Trimmingham took 2 for 29.

Pastures Masters were held to 72 for 8 off 20 overs. Elgin Richards took 3 for 8 and Calvin Glasgow 2 for 13.

Pastures Masters were to suffer more humiliation last weekend when they went under to Sion Hill by a whopping 101 runs. Sion Hill blasted their way to 162 for 4 off 20 overs, with good scores coming from Bill Edwards, 40, Augustine Victory, 33, and Colbert McDonald, 32. Frederick Trimmingham took 2 for 8.

Pastures Masters were trampled for 61 off 15.1 overs.

Frederick Trimmingham hit 20.

Cecil Charles, 3 for 8, Bryan Davis, 3 for 20, and Augustine Victory, 2 for 13, were Sion Hill’s chief wicket takers.

At Buccament, Stanley Browne’s Stubbs Masters

defeated Cato’s Heavy Equipment Glamorgan Masters by 5 wickets.

Glamorgan Masters made 87 for 8 off 20 overs. Dawnley Joseph took 4 for 13, Livingston John 2 for 22 and Basil Andrews 2 for 20.

Stubbs replied with 90 for 5 off 13.2 overs. Leon Samuel hit 42.

At ParkHill, Computec Belfongo Masters defeated Kirk DaSilva’s La Croix Masters by 78 runs. Belfongo posted 164 for 4 off 20 overs.

Peter Campbell made 48 and Arrington Burgin 20. LaCroix Masters made 86 all out off 19.4 overs. Jacima Browne with 5 for 15 and Samuel Holder 2 for 18 were Belfongo’s best bowlers.

At Paget Farm, Bequia, Arnos Vale Masters defeated Gosnel Cupid stroked 95 and fell Bequia Masters by 38 runs.

Arnos Vale Masters made 130 just short of a century for Police Masters. for 7 off 15 overs (overs reduced because of overnight rain). Arnold Gilkes top scored weekend: In Zone A, Stubbs and Ptani on 14, Belfongo 10, with 58 and ‘Spriggie’ Browne 26. Calvin Hazell took 3 for 19. Arnos Vale 8, Bequia, 6, La Bequia Masters replied with 92 Croix and Glomorgan on 4.

In Zone B: Kingstown, Police, off 14.2 overs. Calvin Hazell hit North Leeward on 10, Sion Hill 20 and Veron Lewis 20. McNeil 8, Barrouallie Combine 4 and Morgan took 3 for 8 and Pat Pastures 2.

Warner 3 for 18.

Points standing after last I.B.A.ALLEN

Novice winner in TBPO CGM Novice romped to a comfortable 38-run win over Out Ah Trouble in the National Lotteries Authority TBPO 20/20 softball cricket competition on the weekend.

CGM Novice batted first and made 147 for 8 off 20 overs.

Richie Richards top scored with 67 and Elton Williams 28.

Bowling for Out Ah Trouble, Sunil James took 2 for 42, Starkey Peters 2 for 33 and Nico Ottley 2 for 11. In reply, Out Ah Trouble reached 109 in their allotted 20 overs. Ozin Billingy led with 36 and Wayne Harper had 19. Trevor Bute with 3 for 12, Kimani Thomas 2 for 14 and Roderick John 2 for 10 were Novice’s best bowlers.

General Hardware Supplies Richmond Hill had an 8-wicket win over ASCO. ASCO was

bundled out for 43 in 8.2 overs.

Deron Greaves made 28. Rohan Ash took 2 for 2. In reply, General Hardware Supplies Richmond Hill raced to 49 in 6 overs. Zenroy Lee led with 35 not out.

E.Z. Woods Toppers defeated Glen United by 12 runs. E.Z. Woods Toppers batted first and made 103 for 7 off 20 overs.

Keon Brereton hit 25, Venarda Primus 20 and Raffique Harry 20. Bowling for Glen United Ron Adams 3 for 22. In reply Glen United reached 91 in 19.1 overs. Marcus Hackshaw took 3 for 7, Kemuel King 4 for 10 and Venardo Primus 2 for 15.

Dr. Thomas Injectors beat Gairy Construction Simple Boys by 13 runs. Dr. Thomas Injectors made 106 for 9 off 20 overs. Ronnick Daniel hit 30,

Damien Allen 16, Chet Thompson 15 and Augustine Corridon 13. Bowling for Gairy Construction Simple Boy Travis Cumberbatch took 3 for 25, Kenny Hunte 2 for 20 and Stein Joseph 2 for 15. In reply, Gairy Construction Simple Boys reached 93 in 18.1 overs.

Augustine Corridon bagged 3 for 19, Kelvin Lorraine 3 for 20 and Daimien Allen 2 for 18.

Georgie Valley Saints won by default from Mac Lil Saints.

This Saturday, Gomea Bombers will face Older Boys at 1pm and CGM Novice play ASCO at 3pm. No matches are scheduled for Sunday, Independence Day. I.B.A.ALLEN

V

30. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Classifieds

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2013. 31.

Classifieds

F O R

A.I. REAL ESTATE Cane Garden 4 bedrm Property on 9,090 sq.ft. - $950,000.00 H717 Bonadie Hill 7,516 sq.ft @ $12.00 p.s.f. - $90,192.00 - BB469

S A L E

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 25, 2013

VOLUME 107, No.43

Arnos Vale 3 bedrm Property on 4,862 sq.ft. - $390,000.00 H802 Villa Building Lots various sizes. - CALL Other listings are available Phone: 457-2087 Fax: 457-1382 Toll Free (USA): 866-978-0951 718-732-0545 Email: donp@vincysurf.com Website: www.aisvg.com

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

COPPER HEAD: „DEAL WITH THE BAD EGGS‰

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

A SANITATION worker is calling on the relevant authorities to weed out what he described as the “bag eggs” in the police force.

Cecil ‘Copper Head’ Sutton made the call on Wednesday while speaking to THE VINCENTIAN. He was prompted by an alleged incident in which he claims a police officer, whom he identified as

‘Fireman’, slapped him.

“Those in authority must deal with the bad eggs in the Police Force.

They are giving the Police Force a bad name.

You can’t have people carrying out investigations into

Findings submitted in alleged business scam CHAIRMAN OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION (PSC) Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams has confirmed that a Tribunal has submitted its findings in relation to a matter in which an inmate at Her Majesty’s Prison had allegedly used a cellular phone, to conduct a business scam from behind the walls.

It is alleged that the inmate made calls to a local business place claiming that he was calling from the United States, and placed a number of orders for items which the business place delivered.

It is alleged that some of the items were delivered to a close family member of the prisoner. That family member had been detained by police for questioning but was subsequently released without charges. A number of prison officers were also questioned during the investigations but were not charged.

Police searches were also conducted.

The PSC chairman told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday that the PSC had not yet met to discuss the findings of the Tribunal in this matter, but as soon as a decision is taken, the public would be informed.

serious matters and want to fight civilians. People would not want to give them any information.

That’s why some of them can’t solve crimes,” Sutton said.

He recalled that around 11 a.m.

Thursday, October 10, while “hanging out” at a bar opposite the Central Police Station in Kingstown, he expressed his dissatisfaction to another police officer, in the presence of ‘Fireman’, other police officers and civilians, about certain developments in the constabulary allegedly involving some police officers.

Sutton recalled that on that night at the same bar, a police officer ,whom he identified as ‘Buju’, came and stood very close to him. “He (Buju) was not saying anything. I asked him, ‘Man, what you come over me for?’ He didn’t say anything. He just left and went away”. “‘Fireman’ then came up to where I was standing at the bar and said, ‘Don’t call my name,’ and slapped me twice”, Sutton related. “I feel real bad about it. I didn’t do him anything, I just talk,” he complained.

When THE VINCENTIAN contacted

Cecil ‘Copper Head’ Sutton alleges that he was slapped twice by a police officer. the Police Public Relations and Complaints Department on Wednesday, an official there confirmed that Sutton had complained

to the Department that he was slapped by a police officer. The official assured that the matter was under investigation.

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

Printed by the