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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 13, 2013

VOLUME 107, No.50

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

NELSON MANDELA, affectionately called Madiba by his South African compatriots, will be buried Sunday, December 15. It will be the beginning of an era in international politics.

Mandela’s legacy has been carved out in global history. Born July 18, 1918, he became a symbol of pride and dignity, not only for black people oppressed and suppressed by the horrors of apartheid in South Africa.

His death December 5, 2013, unleashed a period of celebration.

No one was willing to mourn the loss of such a person whose passing signalled an atmosphere of unprecedented harmony worldwide.

Imagine United States’ president Barrack Obama greeting Cuban’s President Raul Castro. Those two countries have been at logger heads since the Cuban revolution began in 1959.

Continued on Page 3.

THE NUMBER IS 911.

But that is nothing to do with the launching of aircraft into buildings in the USA, September 11, 2001.

The figure is indeed $911, 571,046, which is the estimates for the 2014 Prime Minister Dr. budget. Debate on the Hon. Ralph numbers wound up at Gonsalves the House of Assembly last Monday.

But that was perhaps the shadow boxing in anticipation of the real episode.

There was the usual divide across the floor, with the ruling Unity Labour Party led by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Opposition Senator Gonsalves upbeat Vynette Frederick about his presentation and supported by his parliamentary colleagues, while the Opposition New Democratic dismissed the presentation as much of the same, and projected themselves as the alternative.

Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace was critical of the government’s fiscal measures, and suggested that there was nothing on offer to appease the majority of Vincentians.

The opposing views were echoed throughout the debate. There was the feeling that the campaign was on for the next general elections.

This year’s Estimates came on the verge of the third anniversary of the ULP election December 13, 2010.

Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 3.

News 3 Thank you, Madiba

Continued from Front page.

On his 80th birthday, July 18, 1998, Mandela married Graca Machel, the widow of former Mozambican President Samora Machel. (Photo from www.nbcnews.com)

A significant part of Mandela’s life was spent behind bars, on an island off the South African coast.

Even before his incarceration, he lived as a fugitive.

The conscience of the world galvanised into widespread calls for his release. He has become a symbol of peace. No country will be allowed to get away with any form of government as vile as what existed up to Mandela’s release from prison February 11, 1990.

The natural response would have been for revenge, but Mandela took the moral high ground and declared that South Africa must never see the domination of one race over another.

Mandela is fit to engender such an epoch. In a display of humility, he opted for a single term as president. Up to his death and after, he stalks the South African landscape as an example of humanity.

The world is a better place as a result of Mandela’s life. Any statesman will have the Mandela template to base on. His determination and desire to overcome odds are samples of human sacrifice.

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

Mandela’s incarcer-ation served as a rallying point for people the world over, interested in equal rights and justice.

Peter Tosh emphasised that in song.

Just like the call for reparation for slavery and native genocide, protests for Mandela’s release and ending the apartheid regime galvanised the Caribbean into solidarity.

One Vincentian calypsonian highlighted the issue when he chimed: “No one is free until all men are free everywhere.”

Mandela’s release engendered a period of complacency in the Caribbean, and some felt that the militancy evident during the partied ear has been neutralised.

It will take some time for people to appreciate the gift of Mandela’s fortitude.

His magnanimity was shown when he was elected in 1994 and became president. His journey from prison to president was a course of the extremes.

Mandela bore no animosity and set an example of being an ambassador at large.

South Africa’s problems have not been solved since Mandela’s release from prison. His elevation or indeed the African National Congress which he led has not caused any appreciable difference in the fortunes of the South African masses.

Some occurrences at the Memorial Service have raised his stakes as a symbol of hope.

The presence of three former US presidents and as many British Prime Ministers at the ceremony

N E W S

Mandela Memorial: Deaf signer was 'fake' SOUTH AFRICA'S deaf federation has claimed that an interpreter using sign language during the Mandela memorial service was a "fake".

Bruno Druchen, national director of the Deaf Federation of South Africa, said the unidentified man, who was on stage alongside world leaders including US President Barack Obama, "was moving his hands around but there was no meaning in what he used his hands for".

South African parliament member Wilma Newhoudt, a member of the ruling party, also said the man communicated nothing with his hand and arm movements.

Three sign language experts said the man was not signing in South African or American sign languages.

South African sign language covers all of the country's 11 official languages, according to the federation.Both Mr Druchen and Ms Newhoudt are deaf.

Nicole Du Toit, an official sign language interpreter who also watched the broadcast, said the man on stage was an

"embarrassment".

She said: "It was horrible, an absolute circus, really really bad.

"Only he can understand those gestures."

Delphin Hlungwane, an official South African sign language interpreter with DeafSA, said authorities were trying to Sign language experts have said there track the man down. was no meaning to the man's gestures.

She said: "There was zero percent accuracy. He people. couldn't even get the basics right.

"Sign Language, be it British, He couldn't even say thank you.

International or South African, is "You're supposed to indicate a visual and expressive language with your facial expressions, even yet the limited number of signs, if it's not an exact sign. He didn't the amount of repetition, lack of indicate that (booing of Jacob facial expressions and huge gaps Zuma) at all. It just passed him in translation meant that deaf or by. hard of hearing people across the "Nobody knows who he is. Even world were completely excluded at this hour we still don't have his from one of the biggest events in name." recent history."

Paul Breckell, chief executive The memorial was also affected of Action on Hearing Loss, said: by faulty public transport which "The use of appropriately prevented some mourners from qualified communication support getting to the event and a faulty is crucial to ensure that deaf audio system that prevented some people can engage with and access of the crowd from hearing leaders' the same opportunities as hearing speeches.(www.sky.com)

is testimony of the respect he has gained worldwide.

Many people are bewildered by the apparent show of concern for Mandela in his passing hour when simple acts of solidarity in his darkest moments of need were overlooked by those who had the power to hasten the demise of the apartheid scourge.

Even after his eyes were closed, Mandela is serving as a reminder of that spirit of humility that only he could reveal.

After more than 27 years in detention, Mandela walks out of the VictorVerster Prison in Paarl on Feb. 11, 1990, accompanied by his wife Winnie.

Continued from Page 1.

Opposition Senator Vynette Frederick compared this year’s Estimates to one presented in 2009, and her inference was that this was a presentation in anticipation of another general elections.

Frederick set the tone for her NDP colleagues, and endorsed her leader’s position. She portrayed a sense of hopelessness, and in her view the estimates offered little hope for the majority of Vincentians.

The ULP parliamentarians maintained a sense of optimism.

Senator Julian Francis contradicted the NDP’s version which he described as “gloom and doom.” He instead painted a picture of control as exercised by his political leader.

The arguments persisted late into Monday, with some speakers conscious of the time and keen to shorten their presentations so as to accommodate others who had to travel some distance to get to their homes.

A summary from the Finance Ministry showed Current Revenue listed at $520, 505,800 made up of Tax and Non-Tax revenue to the tune of $463, 987, 700 and $56, 515,100.

Capital receipts totalled $391,068,248.

Wages and salaries take up the biggest slice of the Current Expenditure lapping up some $271, 417, 887 from a sub total of $654, 441,101.

Capital Expenditure amounts to $257, 129,945 with the bulk of expenses consumed by Economic affairs. This amounted to $157, 812,700.

Education attracts $28,659,520, while Health takes up $22, 659,520.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves rounded off the debate late Monday night, giving him enough time to go to South Africa for the funeral service for the former South African president Nelson Mandela.

The political barometer is expected to reactivate in January with the budgetary presentation followed by the ULP Convention in February.

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

20 years for boiling water killing (Mornix) animal. He FARM OWNER Andre Mornix seemed tied the child unshaken by a 20-year prison sentence to his vehicle he received last Friday, December 6 for a and drove murder which triggered shock waves slowly across the country in the heat of the through the 2011 Christmas celebrations.

Langley Park “It’s alright, it’s okay”, Mornix told community THE VINCENTIAN with a smile, while the when asked how he felt about the child jogged sentence, as he was being led away in along. The handcuffs from the High Court residents, building to the nearby male prison. according to Andre Mornix appeared unfazed after his 20 year sentence was handed down last Friday.

Justice Wesley James handed down the report, the penalty at a sentencing hearing in alleged that which the court heard a social inquiry because of Mornix’s association with report by a case worker and a sterling police officers, most reports that were mitigation plea from Mornix’s lawyer made against him went unnoticed.

Jomo Thomas.

The case worker concluded that “Counsel has spoken good on your Mornix was aware of the severity of behalf,” Justice James told the 44the crime, and she anticipated that year-old Lowmans Windward man the court would impose a sentence before sentencing him. most appropriate to the offence. In her A 12-member mixed jury had on view Mornix was a prospect for November 14, 2013 found Mornix rehabilitation. guilty of murdering 24-year-old In mitigation, Thomas referred to Desmond ‘Stress’ Lowman of the social inquiry report, which stated Georgetown. that Mornix worked himself up as a According to the prosecution’s fairly successful young man. He evidence, Mornix pushed Lowman into pointed out that Mornix’s problem was a copper cauldron of boiling water, that people were stealing from his with the youngster’s hands tied behind farm. his back, after accusing him of Thomas contended that his client stealing his (Mornix) sheep. Mornix had no previous convictions, was a had instructed his employees to tie hard worker and took care of his Lowman’s hands behind his back daughter.

Princess Browne, charged with before pushing him into the boiling “When we listen to the community causing grievous bodily harm to water. members, we know that the offence Cornell Robin.

The incident occurred at the Mr. Mornix committed was outside his Rabacca Mountains around 9 a.m. character. I know this is a very serious December 22, 2011. Lowman was charge for which Mr. Mornix is warded at the Milton Cato Memorial convicted, but we ask you (Judge), we Hospital where he died New Year’s beseech you to temper justice with Day 2012. mercy,” Thomas pleaded.

Mornix was initially charged jointly Thomas and St. Lucian lawyer Al with Desmond John and Henly Byron, Elliot represented Mornix. Their case PRINCESS BROWNE will return to both of Langley Park. The prosecution was that dogs on the farm rushed the Serious Offences Court to be upwithdrew the charge against John and Lowman and he fell backwards into dated as to the condition of her Byron at the start of the Preliminary the copper cauldron of boiling water. victim Cornell Robin who is Inquiry at the Serious Offences Court, Mornix opted not to give evidence at currently hospitalized with and they were called as prosecution the trial. extensive burns to the body. witnesses.

His sentence takes effect from his Browne, 51 of Vermont, is According to the social inquiry arrest January 2011. charged with causing grievous bodily harm to Robin of Penniston.

Reports are that Robin, who had a live-in relationship with Browne at Vermont was doused with an inflammable liquid and set on fire MYSTERY SURROUNDS Browne at the Layou VINCENTIAN he was in a last Sunday at Vermont following a meeting when contacted. the recent escape of a Magistrate’s court on dispute with Browne.

Efforts to reach him prisoner from the Belle Isle Wednesday charged with Browne was not required to plea Correctional Facility. Colly escaping lawful custody last subsequently were when she appeared before Chief unsuccessful.

‘Pamma’ Lowman, 41-year- Friday, December 6. He Magistrate Sonya Young on This publication old farmer of New pleaded not guilty, and the Tuesday and was remanded. understands that Lowman Chapmans, Georgetown, is matter was transferred to In objecting to bail, Senior expected to appear at the the Serious Offences Court. was on the Prison Farm at Prosecutor Adolphus Delpesche Belle Isle when he asked to Serious Offences Court next When contacted on informed the court that Robin was use the washroom.

He was Monday, December 16. He Monday, Head of the warded at the Milton Cato allowed to do so by himself, was escorted from Criminal Investigation Memorial Hospital nursing burns to but never returned.

Georgetown to the Central Department (CID) Sydney 50 percent of his body and was In a bulletin sent by the Police Station in Kingstown James confirmed that being monitored closely by doctors. police while Lowman was on on Monday by Attorney Lowman had escaped, but The prosecutor added that the Colly Lowman has been Grant Connell and two he had no knowledge of the the run, he was considered doctors said Robin would be to be armed and dangerous. charged with escaping police officers after about time and manner of the hospitalized for a long time, based Lowman is serving a 15lawful custody after three days on the run. departure. on his injuries, and his chances of escaping the Belle Isle Superintendent of Prisons year sentence imposed Lowman appeared before survival were 50-50.

Correctional facility.

November 2012 for robbery Linus Goodluck told THE Magistrate Zoila Ellis and wounding with intent.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

report, at age 14, Mornix was introduced to construction work by his brother, and worked his way up to be a professional contractor. He engaged in other businesses when the construction work was slow, and subsequently purchased a farm where he reared livestock and poultry.

Mornix told the case worker that his educational level was not of a high standard, having an incomplete primary education and never attended secondary school. Mornix added: “I am very uncomfortable being here in prison, I am totally innocent, God knows the honest truth.”

The prison authorities described Mornix as strange. One prison officer stated that he was quiet, but when he was angry, he got aggressive. Another disclosed that Mornix was involved in arguments where officers had to intervene, but he never got into fights, and tried to be by himself most times.

Mornix’s common law wife who knew him for 12 years and with whom he had an eight-year relationship, said she never experienced physical abuse during their relationship, but that they would have disagreements which were settled peacefully.

One Lowmans Windward resident described Mornix as a bully, and the villager recalled an incident where Mornix came to the home of a young man and threatened to “bus his belly,” accusing the youngster, for stealing his common law wife’s phone.

Another resident said Mornix was quiet, but became aggressive if anyone interfered with him, but never saw him as a fighter. The resident referred to him as a hard worker, and indicated that persons used to steal his animals.

An elderly person said he was miserable: “Persons in Lowmans might say he is nice because they are afraid of him, but he is not a nice person.”

Some Langley Park residents described Mornix as a wicked man, and recounted an incident where Mornix made a mockery of a child who he accused of sexually assaulting his

Escape mystery

Princess charged with grievous bodily harm

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 5.

Regional

Jamaica,T&T sign agreement

Arnold J Nicholson, Jamaica’s Foreign Affairs minister, is expected to visit Trinidad and Tobago in early 2014 for a followup meeting.

CARICOM power houses, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, have agreed on a path to improve free trade and free movement between the two countries.

The agreement was signed last week in Kingston, Jamaica, following two days of discussions involving the countries’ Foreign Affairs ministers, Arnold J. Nicholson, Jamaica, and Winston Dookerran,

Trinidad and Tobago.

Speaking to media personnel after the signing of the agreement, Nicholson said that among the decisions was the need for hassle-free movement for Jamaicans into Trinidad and Tobago, stressing that this must be applied in conformity with Community (CARICOM) Law. There was also agreement between Port of Spain and Kingston that there must be a review of national legislation, to ensure uniformity in the application of the Myrie ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

The CCJ earlier this year ruled that Barbados had breached the right of Myrie when she sought entry into the country in 2011, but stopped short of awarding the one million Barbados dollars in compensation she had sought.

Myrie, 25, had been granted leave by the CCJ to file the action, alleged that when she travelled to Barbados on March 14, 2011 she was discriminated against because of her nationality, subjected to a body cavity search, detained overnight

in a cell and deported to Jamaica the following day.

For his part, Dookeran felt that the two countries had been able to diffuse the tensions which were generated by the immigration issues recently brought to light, and “we want to move forward now, on the basis of our mutual interests.”

The tensions referred arose when Trinidadian authorities refused entry to 13 Jamaican nationals last month and the fallout of that escalated into a threat of a trade war between the two CARICOM member states.

Dookerran also told the media personnel that the two countries have also agreed “there needs to be a period of reflection and development of mechanisms and procedures that take into account the realities brought about by Community Laws on the issue of the movement of CARICOM nationals within the region.”

In keeping with this, the two Ministers agreed that there was urgent need for a meeting of CARICOM Heads of Immigration Departments to elaborate on ways to sensitise their

Winston Dookeran, Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Affairs minister, is asatisfied that tensions between the two CARICOM partners have been diffused. officials on the fair treatment of CARICOM nationals exercising their rights within the Community.

Dookeran extended an invitation to his counterpart, Arnold J. Nicholson, to visit Port of Spain by the end of the first quarter of 2014 for further consultations, having recognized the need to follow up on agreements coming out of these last two days. (Source: Caribbean 360)

Medical marijuana company launched THE CARIBBEAN now has it first medical marijuana company. Registered as Medicanja, the company was launched last week Tuesday, December 3, 2013, in Jamaica.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Henry Lowe, one of the company’s principals and recognized worldwide for his cancer research, urged the authorities to take full advantage of the drug’s medicinal components for commercial purposes.

Lowe, who is the executive chairman of Biotech Research and Development Institute, is reported to have said that it would be unfortunate if Jamaica lost out to a booming multibillion-dollar industry in Europe, Canada and the United States.

According to the Professor, a recent survey had shown that 87 per cent of Jamaicans want medical marijuana (ganja) to be developed, adding

“Jamaicans don’t only want it to be developed, they want the government to get behind it Medicanja is the first medical and make it happen”. marijuana company to be launched in He referred the CARICOM region. to Canasol, a marijuana plant that commercial product from provides the ‘high’ for marijuana used to treat smokers and the reason glaucoma, as evidence of marijuana is banned.

Jamaica’s leading role in “We have developed a developing commercially method to isolate the nonviable products from psychoactive compounds,” marijuana, and urged that the country not sit back and said Lowe.

The launch of Medicanja allow others to take over. comes on the heels of Lowe though, warned Caribbean Community that smoking the plant has (CARICOM) leaders health and psychological risks, and declared that his discussions on the decriminalization of company had no plans to marijuana for medicinal break any local or purposes, following St. international law.

Vincent and the Grenadines Instead, the intention is Prime Minister Dr. Ralph to develop a strain of the plant which is less potent in Gonsalves’ call for a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), “reasoned” debate on the issue. the component of the

Professor Henry Lowe has warned about the Caribbean losing out on the opportunity to benefit from a billion dollar industry.

CARICOM chairman and Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said a decision had been taken to have the Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat conduct further research on the medical and legal implications of decriminalising marijuana.

“No borrowing to build airport,” says Skerrit PRIME MINISTER Roosevelt Skerrit has told Dominicans that “if it comes to a point where we have to borrow…. to build the airport, we will not build the airport.”

The Prime Minister’s declaration came Prime Minister as he reported Roosevelt Skerrit has that his no intention of putting government was his country into debt in discussions to build an with a Chinese international airport. firm on the possibility of 85% as a grant if we constructing an were to build an international airport international airport. for Dominicans..

Anything less than He confirmed that that would make it a delegation very difficult for representing the Dominica to build an Anhui Shui An International airport Construction Group on its own,” the of China, was on the prime minister island looking at a stated. proposed site in The prime Crompton Point to minister described construct an the construction of international airport, an international and that a draft airport as a massive Memorandum of undertaking, and Understanding stated that, while (MOU) was before the airport will not his government for be built next year, consideration. his government will Once the continue to pursue government is the possibilities of satisfied with the building one in the MOU and signs it, foreseeable future. the company will “We are not provide designs to saying that the government, and airport is going to be thereafter the built tomorrow. It is government will something that we enter into have been pursuing; discussions with the we have had several Chinese company leads, and we have with respect to cost. had several Recognizing that discussions over the the construction of years with several an international groups in the United airport is a costly States, Europe and exercise, as much as China.” four to five hundred The government million dollars, of Dominica in recent Skerrit said his years has focused on government will not developing the borrow money to Melville Hall Airport build one, and will as a short- to carefully examine all medium-term possibilities in response to having the airport inadequate airlift financed using grant into Dominica. funds.

(Source: Caribbean “I believe we need News Now) to get between 80-

Melville Hall Airport, with night landing facility, is Dominica’s main airport.

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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Be extra vigilant

by HAYDN HUGGINS HEAD of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Assistant Superintendent of Police Sydney James is advising shoppers, business proprietors and home owners to be extra vigilant this Christmas season.

The CID Chief has urged citizens not to walk with CID Chief Assistant excessive sums of money when going Superintendent of shopping, to secure Police Sydney windows and doors James is calling on everyone to be extra before leaving observant this home, and to keep outside lights on at Christmas season. nights, even while at home. He acknowledged the need to conserve energy, but stressed, “persons have to also think about their safety.”

James is also encouraging persons to ask neighbours to have an eye out for them, while they are not at home. He urged ladies, in particular, to always have their keys readily available, in hand, while approaching their homes and vehicles because, “that brief moment you take to ravage through your handbags looking for your keys, a thief could seize the opportunity to strike.” The top detective added, “while shopping in crowded areas, keep your handbags clutched in front of you, as opposed to having them loosely on your shoulders because, while you are looking forward, a thief might come from behind and steal your belongings.”

James pointed out that business persons should invest in close circuit television, so that they could monitor the daily activities of their businesses, and in cash intransit, or stagger the movements of employees taking money from business places to commercial banks. “Don’t stick to one routine,” he warned.

James added, “If there is someone loitering or looking suspicious in your business place, ask an employee to approach that person to inquire whether he/she requires any assistance. By doing so, that person would know, he/she is being observed, which would reduce the likelihood of any dishonest activity.”

Noting that criminals use busy periods to slip through counterfeit notes, he urged the business community to look out for local and foreign counterfeit currencies.

James warned that the playing of what is commonly called the three card game, is illegal, and that persons caught in the act would be arrested.

The CID Chief thanked the public for their cooperation and support over the years and urged them to continue in this vein.

A Touch of Pearl Bar and Restaurant Calder Annual Christmas Dinner & Karaoke Sunday 22nd December, 2013 At 7:30 p.m.

Please call 593-9090 for reservations

A representative of Gibson’s Building Supplies displaying a variety of locks, which may be used to secure your home.

Edwin D. Layne & Sons also took the opportunity to showcase their range of safes.

Protecting self and property

by HAYDN HUGGINS VINCENTIANS were made aware of the various ways to secure themselves and their properties, during the annual crime prevention exhibition held in front of the Central Police Station last Friday, December 6.

The collaborated effort between

the police and business houses showcased equipment which could be obtained locally to secure the safety of the public. These included locks, burglar alarms, security lights, vaults, close circuit televisions, and security doors and windows.

The event is an initiative of the

Criminal Investigation Department (CID). It started in 2001 by then CID Chief, Superintendent Ronald Christopher.

Current head of the CID, Assistant Superintendent of Police Sydney James described this year’s exhibition as successful.

Be good neighbours Besides enhancing security on the individual state basis, the new system CHRISTOPHER will have impact of the SANDROLINI, Deputy Organisation of Eastern Chief of Mission at the Caribbean States (OECS) Embassy of the United and the wider Caribbean.

States of America in Police Stations at Barbados, wants the Chateaubelair, Georgetown Caribbean region to look and the Grenadines can out for each other. cross check the identity of “We must all be good anyone through the new neighbours,” Sandrolini system. urged last Monday. He was National Security speaking at the conference Advisor Sir Vincent Beache room of the Royal Police indicated that security was Force in Kingstown, St. the most important part of Vincent. any administration. He He handed Automated suggested that persons Finger Printing would not be inclined to Identification to Acting invest if they had concerns Commissioner of Police about security. A former Michael Charles.

National Security Minister, He interpreted his Beache apologised for president’s mantra of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph fulfilment and cited: “We Gonsalves’ absence. can and must work He acknowledged an together.” increase in homicides, As far as Sandrolini was which he attributed to concerned, there were no domestic and drug related junior or senior partners in causes. For him, “any the Caribbean Basin material we can use to Security Initiative. bring those criminals to Sandrolini pointed out justice is appreciated,” Sir the Automated Finger Vincent stated.

Printing Security System He referred to Caricom’s had already reaped success effort of trying to here. consolidate the security The system allows the apparatus, and added that Police to track finger prints the efforts extended to found on a crime scene. protecting the region Countries can have against Cybercrimes. advanced information of Sir Vincent is of the view incoming passengers that the equipment will go through the network. a long way in “helping to

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

L-R: Christopher Sandrolini, Deputy Chief of Mission and Sir Vincent beache, National Security Advisor in conversation at Monday’s handing over ceremony. defeat criminal elements.

“We look forward to the effective use of these equipment,” Sir Vincent said.

Acting Commissioner Charles expressed gratitude for the assistance, and pointed out: “These equipment will take us into the future.”

He boasted that they will enhance the Police in crime detection.

Charles praised his predecessor Keith Miller for his role in negotiating the package of assistance.

Sandrolini also One of the Automotive Finger highlighted Miller’s Printing devices displayed. part in getting the equipment here.

Staff and hierarchy from The Acting the local constabulary, took Commissioner, accompanied by Sandrolini members of the media to the office to witness the along with US Embassy equipment in use.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 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

TITAN THE AXIS OF THE WORLD went through a figurative slowdown this week as the planet paid its tribute to the life and work of the phenomenal African liberator, humanist and freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela. His impact on the world was such that his memorial service attracted the largest-ever gathering of world leaders to his beloved township of Soweto, bedrock of anti-apartheid resistance, where the service was held.

That was a fitting tribute to the achievements of this man, who was undoubtedly not just one of the most outstanding leaders of the 20th century, but as well, one of the most influential figures in the entire history of humankind. Few would doubt the claim that Mandela was one of the greatest leaders of African descent.

Every race and continent has its own liberators, forever revered in the annals of their history. For India, the name of Mahatma Gandhi will always be remembered; the United States has its George Washington; while among Latin American heroes, Simon Bolivar stands out. The black race has had its fair share of heroes too, in spite of the brutality of colonialism and slavery, among them Toussaint L’Overture of Haiti, Marcus Garvey of neighbouring Jamaica, Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, in our own hemisphere.

The African continent, rapaciously plundered and divided, its people subjected to all kinds of injustices and indignities, has fostered heroic leadership in the anti-colonial struggles. All suffered oppression, some were murdered and attempts made to smear their contribution to the freedom of their people; but the memory of Nkrumah, Nyerere, Lumumba lives on.

None however looms as large as that of South Africa’s beloved ‘Madiba’.

Tuesday’s moving ceremony and rapt attention of the world attest to Mandela’s glorified and fully-deserved status. He was a ‘king’ in his own right, not an isolated ruler, but a leader embodying the aspirations, hopes and dreams of his people.

Even as we praise him, we must take stock of the enormity of the achievements of the Mandela generation. Apartheid was not just an oppressive system within the confines of the borders of South Africa. It was an inhuman, racist system, the evil tentacles of which ensnared oppressors and oppressed alike, far beyond its borders. In addition to South Africa, the mighty military machine built by the racists with the support of western nations, had neighbouring countries of Africa-Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Botswana in its throes.

Given the theory of the supposed racial superiority of whites, no black person could truly consider him/herself “free” as long as apartheid existed.

Thus the call for “WAR” immortalised in the speech of Emperor Haile Selassie and put in song by Bob Marley. It is a call that Mandela answered for most of his adult life, moving from peaceful resistance to armed struggle, and paying the price in terms of his own freedom for it.

It was a call not only for black people, but for all of humanity. A call that resonated so strongly around the globe that a powerful solidarity movement was built uniting white and black, people in developed as well as developing countries, a movement that was to envelop and eventually strangle the apartheid evil and bring about its downfall and the freedom of Mandela and the peoples of Southern Africa.

Mandela recognised and knew the power of such solidarity. He made this clear when facing the death penalty in the infamous Rivonia Trial. He made it clear to his colleagues that no Appeal Court, “…..only struggle and international solidarity could save us from the gallows.” He maintained that position when pressured by the South African whites to call for an end to international sanctions against South Africa in return for his freedom.

He also knew that victory would not come within the confines of narrow nationalism, and so from early broadened his view to incorporate elements of Marxism and socialism. Mandela valued the contribution of the South African Communist Party to the liberation struggle, and remained faithful to the alliance with it. The ANC under his leadership received significant support from socialist countries and leftist leaders when western leaders still openly or tacitly gave succour to the apartheid regime. Fidel Castro proved to be a friend of the liberation struggle, and Cuba’s military intervention in Southern Africa played a major role in the collapse of apartheid.

That revealed another side to his formidable character- his loyalty and courage. To the end, he openly expressed gratitude to those who helped his people gain their freedom and when released, refused to turn his back on Castro and Libya’s Gaddafi as demanded by western leaders. It is not by chance that Cuban President Raul Castro was one of the prominent figures at the memorial service.

In spite of this, Mandela remained essentially human, very much committed to his family, even in spite of the limitations of his sacrifices.

They too suffered with him, and it is to his credit and theirs that they bore it with fortitude. Physically, Madiba is no longer with us, but this Titan of the liberation movement, this colossus of human freedom will always be in our hearts and minds.

We of THE VINCENTIAN express our full solidarity with the Mandela family and the South African people, and join them in celebrating his life’s work.

The man Mandela: Remembered THE MAN MANDELA: REMEMBERED (A reprint from ‘The Vincentian” 16th February 1990)

movement within and without the country is still drastically curtailed. A small white clique still monopolises the corridors of THE GREAT OUTPOURING of joy and political power, resulting in the virtual jubilation of the masses of South Africa at disfranchisement of the people, no matter the release of A.N.C leader Nelson Mandela how many mock Parliaments and phoney reverberated around the world, as satellite voters’ lists are prepared. Freedom of T.V captured the events and brought them expression and association carry little clout. into our very drawing-rooms.

True, the A.N.C has been unbanned, but Unfortunately, our own T.V station, already the Far Right has been questioning having whetted the appetite by showing up whether Mandela’s post-prison speeches to the event of release, failed to follow have violated the laws of the country, which through with the main course, but instead they probably have! switched back to normal programming. So In social, economic and political terms, it was that CNN network which thought the Black in South Africa are still bound the event of sufficient moment to warrant head and foot, though the chains might not full coverage was cut off and we were once be as tightly drawn as they were ten, again delivered captive to the American twenty or forty years ago. religious industry with “The Bible Speaks” For those small mercies, one has to and the rest. thank a number of factors which, working It is easy to see why Mandela has together, have been cumulative in effect. impacted so positively on the people of First of all, the economic sanctions have Southern Africa, ex-colonial countries, and hurt and the isolation in sport in particular the World in General. He represents the has had its effect. living symbol of the indomitable spirit of Secondly, that rapid expansion and man, that will not be crushed whatever the growing sophistication of South Africa’s adversities of the external environment. economy has forced it to admit talented Every under-dog can identify with him.

Blacks into former white preserves, making Thirty years spent in jail, the early part a mockery of the system itself. in solitary confinement, is no joke. Yet there Thirdly, the defeat of South Africa’s is not one shred of evidence to suggest that army in Angola by the Angola Army beefed Mandela ever once, even in a brief moment up by Cuban support, has given South of weakness or despair, wavered from his Africa pause. At the same time, the goal of securing social justice for the broad apparent roll back in the East of mass of his people. Not when he faced Communist States which backed the A.N.C death; not when he was struck down by has suggested to Pretoria that it can now illness; not when he confronted the aging deal with a less, dangerous A.N.C, as well process. Always he stuck to his guns, and as remove the bogey of the local communist kept the faith. They never could break him. threat.

It was therefore heartening to note that Lastly, South Africa has had a growing we in this little, predominantly Black allergy to world enlightened public opinion nation, responded with spontaneous which had been becoming more aggressive warmth at the news of the release. The and vocal against its wretched policy of government immediately granted the apartheid. schools a half-holiday in commemoration of For our own part, we can do our little bit the event, with the Ministry of Education by keeping the pressure up, lending moral promising to get across to school children strident noises in international fora. We during the following weeks a capsuled have come a long way. But we have an version of recent historical events in South equally long way to go.

Africa.

Twenty years ago, the Educational SVUT was right on the ball, Forum of the People was officially harassed spearheading a rally at the Grammar for hosting a visiting member of the A.N.C. School grounds during the half-holiday and Joseph Massinini: as late as 1981 when the beyond. All the speakers and contributors first radio call-in programme spontaneously at that rally - Dr. Adrian Fraser, Renwick burst on the scene to guage listeners’ Rose, Victor Cuffy among others, dwelt on reaction to Winston Davis’ commendable variations of a single theme: Mandela’s refusal to join the W.I rebel tour to South release is welcome and necessary, but is not Africa. sufficient: we still have a long way to go Nelson Mandela, no longer fiery but not ensuring the dismantlement of the less committed: no longer youthfully apartheid system; there must be no let up vigorous but now mellow and matured: not on sanctions and other pressures on South as dynamic and charismatic as a generation Africa: South Africa has bent a little, it ago but more resourceful, wise, dignified must break; the struggle continues. and quietly compelling. It is just possible As Dr. Fraser was at pains to point out, that he might be the latest to join an Mandela has been released from one jail impressive list of personalities- Ghandhi only to enter the larger prison that is South and Nehru, Nkrumah, Benn Bella and Africa. For all the recent cosmetic changes Jomo Kenyatta, who walked out from prison and reluctant implementation of a gates ultimately to lead their countries for liberation policy to provide escape for some which they had sacrificed so much. It would of the steam and so avert or delay a violent be a fitting end to Mandela’s illustrious explosion, the average black in South Africa career. is still forced to live in certain areas; his But whatever happens, South Africa is range of jobs is artificially limited, and his now set on a “freedom course”. And we are ambition thwarted by the system, not by around to ensure that it stays that way for, the market; there is still a cut off point in as Pappy has told us, “No man is free until the education of Blacks. The dread passall men are free everywhere”. books might be no more, but freedom of

V Ungratefulness is like witchcraft

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 9.

Letters

THERE IS AN OLD adage that says, ‘ungratefulness is like witchcraft’, this is how I will refer to the Leader of the Opposition in his so-called open letter to the Founder of the NDP. The post was given to him against the wishes of the NDP supporters at the time, but who had to eat humble pie to avoid any mayhem or confusion at the time.

So, having gotten into the position of leadership, it was when the confusion started.

Clearly, he wanted to do things his way, whilst Sir James had other ideas; but this is the heart of the matter; you cannot refer to Sir James as one of the Founding fathers, he is the “founding father”.

The point that I am making, is that Sir James is still of the view, he is the owner of the party.

Even though the leader is currently the president of the Party, he cannot believe that he is ultimately the guru, and that the Founder is out. But again, no one is surprised, and it is only the beginning of their woes. All I will say, they just give Dr. Friday, the first Vice-president to keep him quiet, but no one knows, what is going through his mind, and the Leader of the Opposition must realize that he must not underestimate the Founder, he is no way out of

the woods.

By the way, did I not hear the Chairman, Dr. Lewis, on a programme Sunday night, mention something about ‘discipline’? Are they contemplating to discipline Sir James? Can you imagine that the only position that was challenged was that of the Chairman at their convention?

All I can say is that the leaders of the Opposition are living in a dream world. Let him read a letter from Dr. Cyrus of the health care at the hospital. Only a few die-hard supporters would say, how hard the economy is, but they must check the fast food, KFC, Sub-Way et-al, the lining up of the barbeque grills on weekends.

Time alone will tell that they are only talking; but by the time of the next election, they would not have anything to speak about.

Randolph Peters

Dishonest judgment WHEN ARE we going to set honest judgment in this country?

some church leaders were caught in a big dirty act which caused the church to pay out big settlements.

World future Instead of these Where is the world churches stamping out these dirty acts, the going to today? Which perpetrators were given country must we look up to as the role model? a promotion instead.

They started a Which of these denominations must we campaign for same sex trust? Which marriage, and before you know it, it was no denomination is longer an following the true embarrassment. Am I faith? Which world right to say the leader is sending a promotion of same sex good signal to the put the world where it people? When these is today? The Bible questions were put to says that God the audience, no one destroyed the world for had an answer. One that very same man in the audience took the stage to behaviour.

I can support the answer all the man because what he questions. He said is saying is quite there is no country he will look up to because evident today: no they are saying one money, no job, big demonstrations all thing and doing the over, businesses closing other. He went on…. down, shooting every e.g. they said do not day all over the world, flog your kids, but the said country will give kids making kids, and money to build jails to on and on. The man put them in when they was given a standing ovation from the get out of hand. audience because every They put out a point he made was campaign to stop prayers in schools. One correct. kid who ignored the campaign got into To marry Mr. Wanner trouble. The man said some churches are There is a lot of marrying people, but critical circumstances those church leaders surrounding medicinal are not married marijuana. For years, themselves. He said there was a fight to

stop marijuana around the world.

The drugs bring wealth around the world to those who deal in it. People get the crave to smoke and will do anything to supply their habit.

A few years ago, a study came out to say it was good for some ailment. The big governments decided to make it available for medicinal purposes only. Lovers of marijuana were glad to hear about the break-through.

Can you imagine a professional who wanted to smoke weed all along but was afraid of losing his/her job? Soon there will be long lines of sick professionals. How will it look to see Magistrates smoking, police smoking, doctors and nurses smoking, pilots smoking, judges smoking, ministers smoking, and if they were being caught their excuses will be that they are sick?

Who is going to police medicinal marijuana to make sure the amount caught with was legal?

SPY

Whether with all the unison of praise showered

by Vincentians on the late Nelson Mandela: ~ If Government will now join many other countries in declaring July 18 annually as Nelson Mandela Day? ~ And whether the Opposition will not only give its support but jointly participate in relevant national activities on the day? ~ Do the Budget figures dance up and down to election tunes? ~ If it’s a ploy to gain freedom by pleading guilty to manslaughter after years on remand for murder? ~ Why the local Human Rights Association is more concerned about the accused than the victims of violent crimes?

TRIBUTES TO NELSON MANDELA THIS IS A STORY of a man who has struggled to ensure South Africa’s freedom from white minority leadership.

His name is Nelson Mandela (often called by his clan name ‘Madiba’). His plea for all of South Africa still echoes today from these words in the court house dock on his sentencing: “I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die”.

This was the man ‘Madiba’ whose faith has never wavered. Though imprisoned, he never lost sight of his dream that one day he will become a leader. From prisoner to president, Madiba kindled a flame in South Africa. A flame which burns bright with peace, love and forgiveness.

No longer enslaved by the colour of one’s skin, but the human condition where we can live in peace and harmony as brothers and sisters.

His memory still lives on and such assurance can be found in his stellar conviction: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead”. — Nelson Rest in peace ‘Madiba’.

--- Yanik Sayers

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THERE IS SO MUCH I want to say about this great man, Nelson Mandela, that I struggled to see where I could start and finish.

Nelson Mandela made all black people across the globe proud, and inspired many to greatness. But the thing that seems to stick in my mind is Mandela’s relationship to sports.

I am no rugby fan, but I will never forget how the great man used a Rugby World Cup staged in his country, to dismantle the last bastions of apartheid.

By simply putting on the green and gold jersey of the South African Rigby team, a sport that like most during the years of apartheid had been the territory of whites only, Mandela reached out to all South Africans, to the extent that those blacks who before would have turned their back on the ‘all-white’ rugby team, rallied behind the team which went on to victory. South Africa was never the same after that.

Mandela’s relationship with sport and the value he placed on it can never be over-emphasised. It is almost weird that Mandela’s last public appearance was at the Football World Cup held in South Africa in 2010.

To borrow a cricket reference, Nelson Mandela played an innings that will be recalled for generations to come.

--- Garnet, N.Y.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MANDELA, your death has brought many world leaders together, less than your life. You will forever be remembered by all freedom fighters globally. Your memory to us will be second to our Messiah out of Palestine. Our greatest hope is to see your burial on Christmas day — the day that they celebrate our Messiah’s birth, but by the time these words are printed, your body may be already secured.

Just like a seed has to die in the earth for a new plant to appear, so too, your death will cause many more freedom fighters like you to appear to finish the work our God gave you to do. We will continue to struggle for freedom, and equal rights and justice for all people the world over.

From a prisoner to a president in dark and divided South Africa, you have shown light and broken down the racial and economically divided walls, and enabled all people to recognize the oneness of humanity. You are gone, but not forgotten, your non- violent revolutionary spirit will remain with us, and we will destroy the evils with that fighting spirit.

May your soul rest in peace as we continue the struggle for the oneness of humanity — the kingdom of God. --- A Christian Democrat

V

10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Entering 2014 with confidence The Issue LAST TUESDAY DECEMBER 10th, 2013, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves laid the estimates of revenue and expenditure for 2014, in the House of Assembly. It is a mixture of prudence and enterprise, taking into account the prevailing world economic and financial crisis, and the need to fashion an appropriate homegrown response to this situation.

In the circumstances, the ULP administration is correct in its approach of prudence and enterprise. There is need to pay attention to the deficit that exists, so that it remains within manageable control. But the ULP administration has to ensure that the country is not overbalanced, in that some critical aspects of the government are not under- financed, so as to create problems for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It is easy to talk about surpluses and austerity in the current circumstances.

If the Opposition NDP had their way, the country’s wage bill would be reduced, salaries would be frozen, the public service numbers will come down, and critical social services would be abolished. In this process, the country will become un-balanced, and the people will suffer.

New Programmes

There are a number of new programmes which the ULP administration will implement in 2014, many of which will provide employment for Vincentians. The key projects will be the rehabilitation of the South Leeward highway and the road at Murray’s village.

There is the farmers’ support revolving fund, of which some six million dollars have been provided for in the 2014 estimates. This will provide some assistance to farmers in the State, particularly those in the banana industry. The government has provided two million dollars for the redevelopment of the bus terminal at “Little Tokyo”, and moneys have been allocated for the tourism and private sector development (EC$7.3M), CARCIP (EC$2.1M), and one million for the IVCT centre.

In the field of education, the government has provided EC$13.6 million for the one laptop per student project, this time aimed at secondary The 2014 Estimates students in the State. This project is expected to get underway in the first The ULP administration has quarter of 2014. proposed a figure of EC$911.5 million The employment support and for the estimates of revenue and training programme is worthy of expenditure for the year 2014. This represents a 14.1 percent increase over mention here. In the 2014 estimates the government is providing a figure of the approved budget for 2013. The increase is due to a 45 percent increase EC$1.5 million to employ on a short in the planned capital expenditure, and term basis, those Vincentians who have completed their studies, but who are a 5.2 percent increase in recurrent unemployed. This will be of importance spending.

The government will spend EC$654.4 to those students who have to service student loans. million on recurrent expenditure, including amortization and sinking fund Conclusion contributions. In 2014 the ULP administration will again operate a It is clear that the estimates as small but manageable deficit on the presented by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph current account of EC$28 million, an increase of just EC$2.7 million over the Gonsalves reflect the current economic scenario affecting our State. There are 2013 figure.

The capital expenditure is EC$257.1 no plans to reduce the number of public servants who are employed by the State, million, and the reflected increase is nor are there any plans to reduce the related to the loans acquired for the construction of the international airport national wage bill, a concern of the project at Argyle, and which have to be Leader of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace. New positions have been reflected in the estimates. This is not created in the public sector to meet the new money, and Prime Minister Dr. administrative thrust of the Ralph Gonsalves will explain in the government, but resources are available budget address next year. to meet this cost.

It is important to note that the ULP There is a certain amount of fiscal administration will spend EC$271.4 prudence in the Estimates. A few million on salaries, allowances and critical areas have been targeted for wages. The salary bill has increased because of the increments which will be increase expenditure, but by and large, the Estimates reflect the need to keep paid to public servants in 2014, while the economy on an even keel. there is a two percent increase in new But there is light at the end of the jobs, mainly due to new positions in the tunnel. In 2013, there has been some Ministry of National Security. growth in the manufacturing and The government has also made arrangements to provide for those public agriculture sectors, and the banana sector will continue to improve. The servants who have successfully completed their undergraduate studies, government expects that the public servants will lift their game further, to and this has resulted in an increase of accomplish many of the programmes 5.5 percent. However the increasing outlined in the Estimates, and to payments for NIS for public servants, remain a concern to the government. In provide a more efficient service to the general public. Some public servants are 2014, the government is providing a providing excellent work, but better further 3.1 million dollars, or an increase of six percent for this category. must be done, and better can be done.

Nevertheless, given the current That is why the plans of the ULP proposals in the Estimates, the country administration for pension reform, will can look forward with confidence, to the be critical in 2014. year 2014.

Excerpts from the Hon. Arnhim Eustace’s Address at the NDP’s 37th Annual Convention.

“Energy” REDUCING THE COST OF energy is a super priority of the New Democratic Party. It impacts everything: cost of living for all the members of our population, particularly the poor, and it is equally critical to the cost of doing business and therefore creating jobs. Whether it is commercial or industrial businesses or your home, energy must be used, and in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines energy is costly.

We have to find mechanisms to reduce the cost of energy for the benefit of our population, and to improve the competitiveness of businesses. I cannot say it enough. As you are aware, hundreds of people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are at this moment without electricity because they have been cut off by VINLEC, and this causes much hardship for the poor and the not so poor.

For the last twelve years, Gonsalves has been talking about alternative energy and cheaper energy, and has accomplished nothing. Gonsalves and his people have no credibility whatsoever on energy matters, and they are now taking us into dangerous waters.

In January 2006, Gonsalves touted the benefits of Petro Caribe, and he and all of his people told Vincentians that we would see reduced electricity prices. He said from his 2006 budget presentation: “When the Petro Caribe arrangements are fully established, we would be sharing this increasing benefit with the consumer by offsetting a portion of the fuel price at the pump and in the fuel surcharge.”

Well, we have had absolutely no benefit. Remember at that time, that I had indicated that Gonsalves should have unsigned that agreement? The reality is that, when Gonsalves took office in 2001, a unit of electricity cost about 68 cents. Today, electricity is $1.05 cents a unit, almost double what it was!

Secondly, let’s look at the ways to reduce energy cost. One of the ways to reduce the cost is to develop our renewable energy sources; so we reduce the amount of expensive imported diesel fuel used to produce electricity. What has Gonsalves done over 12 years to develop renewable energy? Nothing!

Plans for a wind farm were announced by VINLEC in 2008. Five years later, which is more than long enough for a wind farm, we have no wind farm; but in the same period, wind farms have been going up all over the Caribbean, most recently in Nevis, which now generates 6% of its electricity from wind. They have not increased our hydro output, which we know can be increased. What they are actually doing now is spending a whole set of money on solar PV that will have no impact on the price of electricity in this country. It will amount to a saving of about twelve dollars a year on a consumer’s electricity bill. That’s a joke.

The facts on the ground show that Gonsalves and his people have no credibility on energy matters. But they are talking a lot of big talk about exporting electricity to Barbados, based on geothermal. Well, let us examine the facts. First off, this is no particular insight on the part of Ralph Gonsalves. Dominica started heading down that road six years ago, since

2007/8. They have done their exploratory drilling and they have fully proven their geothermal resource, and they are now moving to the phase of building an actual power station, all of the above using public funds. In the next longer term phase of their project, they will be looking at exporting energy via undersea cable to Guadeloupe and Martinique.

And the fact is, if we look at Dominica’s experience, we will see that everything Gonsalves is talking about at this point is mere speculation, but he is putting it forward as though it is an actual plan with some sort of definitive timeline. Elections are around the corner - DON’T BE FOOLED! Let’s just look at a little bit of the history of Gonsalves and geothermal .On Dec 1st 2008 in Parliament, PM Gonsalves said this about geothermal: “Mr Speaker, the Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the firm Croghan Energy Limited, for the investigation of the country’s geothermal potential.

Representatives of the Government and Croghan Energy have been involved in several meetings. A formal agreement is in the offing, and if concluded soon, it is expected that drilling could begin sometime in the third quarter of 2009.”

The problem is, whoever this Croghan fellow was, it appears as though he tricked our great PM, because nothing was heard about him or that project again. Did Croghan trick Gonsalves? If Gonsalves and Jerrol Thompson had spent fifteen minutes on Google back then, they would have found out that the guy was a fly by night.

In any case, years passed and we heard nothing further about geothermal until recently, and up to now, in October 2013, five years after Gonsalves spoke about Croghan, no drilling has started! So, five years passed and he can’t even organize some geothermal drilling, but now he wants us to believe that in four years we can explore, do the drilling, design and build a power station and be producing geothermal energy?

That is not the statement of a credible person. That is the statement of a man who is tossing another election gimmick in front of you, hoping you will fall for it. Back in September, Ralph Gonsalves addressed a town hall meeting in Brooklyn, New York and he spoke about geothermal energy in St Vincent. He outlined how his government was working with a Canadian company called Emera and a company from Iceland called Reykjavik He spoke about having 10 Megawatts of geothermal energy on the grid in 4 years and about exporting electricity to Barbados, and he made it sound all nice and easy. We are here to tell you some of the truth about all of this, and it is not as nice and easy as it is being made to sound. Let us look at some facts.

Fact: To date, there has been no definitive assessment of the country’s geothermal resources, because no definitive assessment can be made of our geothermal potential until geothermal wells are drilled.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 11.

Views

Nothing Ventured, Nothing Mandela: If someone were to Gained! ask me

“But the only way of discovering the limits of the possible is to venture a little way past them into the impossible.” - Arthur C. Clarke (1917– ) English author of science fiction; ‘Profiles of the Future’ 1962 (Clarke’s Second Law) MANY OF THIS COLUMN’S readers will not recognise the name Jesus Pasos.

This former senior executive at Neal & Massy Limited in Trinidad was once invited to share his insights with a group of business students at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business (University of the West Indies, Trinidad).

His task was to share insights related to crafting and implementing successful strategies in the private and public sectors. During his one-hour presentation, the eloquent orator challenged the audience to be prepared to take calculated risk. Using a variety of “examples from the trenches”, the experienced former manager stated, “You cannot discover new lands by remaining in shore.” That analogy is so powerful. Just imagine a ship constructed with all the capabilities for sailing the seas, having a competent crew, loaded with all of the necessary equipment and supplies, but refusing to venture out.

How many times have we heard stories of individuals who appear to have so much potential but never seem to achieve much because they never pursued their dream? They may have the talent. They may have the skill. They may have the knowledge. But they never ventured out. And they never gained anything to talk about. Afraid to try. Afraid of failure. Afraid of what people would say. Afraid that they are not good enough. So very afraid to venture out.

And they forever remain individuals with potential ... who achieved so very little. They never ventured and they never gained.

Life is so often like a double-sided coin. And the same way we can see examples of persons with potential who never really exerted much effort, we can present examples of individuals who appeared to have had so little, but used their God-given talent, and achieved so very much.

Consider the little boy, Michael Findlay, who grew up in a little village (called Troumaca) on the leeward coast of the island where he and his friends used a coconut bat along with limes, oranges, and small breadfruit to sharpen his cricketing skills. Back then, he dreamt of playing for the West Indies cricket team (at a time when those spaces were occupied by outstanding players from the larger Caribbean territories) ... and did. Or consider the young boy, Joseph “Reds” Pereira, who stuttered profusely but visualised himself being a radio announcer ... and did. Or consider the young man, Hugh Mulzac, from the small Grenadine island (Union Island) whose love for the sea prompted him to join the United States Merchant Marine, and he became the first black man to captain a United States naval vessel.

Yes, you get the picture. It is not

where we were born, or who our parents are, or the colour of our skin, or the texture of our hair, or any such insignificant things that make the difference. It is often the drive that we create and sustain en route to our noble goal.

There are so many examples that we can pull from the world stage also.

Think of that little, poor, black boy (no offence meant) who grew up in abject poverty in a slum area in Saint Marc, Haiti, whose childhood ambition was to become a medical doctor. An Internet search for Dr. Rodrigue Mortel will confirm that he not only became a medical doctor but emerged to be one of the world’s most accomplished gynaecologists and oncologists. He recently retired as Dean of Penn State Medical College, Philadelphia, USA. Who would have thought this possible? He faced many great odds, but he had the determination, the desire, the fortitude that make impossible dreams real. He knew that nothing ventured, nothing gained! Or consider the young girl who had the desire to pursue a career in mathematics and physics during an era when such subject areas were dominated by males. She, too, fought against great odds and eventually became one of America’s accomplished physicists and mathematicians. Her name, Dr. Grace Murray Hopper. She was the individual who, between the years 1959 and 1961, led the team of scientists who invented Common Business-Oriented Language (COBOL), the first user-friendly business computer software programme.

We could go on and on, as we highlight the feats of outstanding individuals (human beings just like you and me) who persevered against great odds, calculated the risk, and plunged forward with gusto to influence their part of the world for good. They emerged from all walks of life and from every profession. They ventured forth to make and sustain a positive influence on our world. Will you and I, following their example, venture forth with greater enthusiasm and determination to impact our world for good? We (you and I) have more reserves of energy than we have ever tapped. We have more talent than we have ever exploited. We have more strength than we have ever tested. We have more capabilities and potential than we ever thought possible. Will we now take a more serious look at our talents and endeavour to make our space on planet earth a little better and brighter for ourselves and others? Let us go forth remembering that nothing ventured, nothing gained.

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

LAST TUESDAY I had the distinct and signaled honour to stand on the floor of our parliament and deliver a tribute to Nelson Mandela. Mandela made his transition at the ripe age of 95 years.

He has undoubtedly taken residence in the pantheon reserved for those who have done their life’s work well.

Ever so often, out of the bowels of the people, there emerges an individual who by his selflessness and commitment to the people, discipline and loyalty to the cause he believes in, humility and simplicity in personal affairs as well as foresight and vision, leaves an indelible mark on the course of their country’s development.

Nelson Mandela was such a human being. Because of these outstanding qualities, Mandela’s physical remains will be returned to the earth on Sunday, but Mandela lives. His exemplary life will act as a beacon for all those who want a star to steer by, an anchor to hold them when things get rough, and a sign post from which they can mark their travels and find their way out of any travail.

Nelson Mandela was not perfect.

None of us are. But he was a giant of a man. Few individuals, particularly one like Mandela, who was locked away for so long, 27 years in his case, so effectively captured the imagination of a people and held their thoughts and spirit and action during the darkest apartheid night.

Why did Mandela break ranks with his African Nationalist Congress leaders and hold talks with the racist leaders of the apartheid state? These talks eventually led to his freedom and emergence as the first black president in a democratic South Africa.

Why was Mandela so forgiving of his jailors and the white power structure that snatched 27 of his best years, and so criminally exploited, brutalized and marginalized millions of his black countrymen?

Why did he agree, as a condition for his freedom, to leave the white power structure intact, a power structure that left all of the privileges in the hands of the white elite while millions of black Africans who fought for liberation continue to live in poverty, disease and squalor?

Could it be that he got tired of living the life as a prisoner? Could it be that Mandela did not understand that the machinery of government and the international architecture of politics, finance and economics could be rigged inspite of his best intentions? Could it be that he and the ANC were outfoxed and got the short end of the grand compromise that led to ‘majority’ rule?

Whichever way we answer these questions should not take away from the high esteem in which we hold Nelson Mandela. We must never underestimate the dominating mind-altering power of the violence or the class consciousness of the white apartheid ruling elite and their foreign allies who dominate the international power structure, to plan a future South Africa that serve their interest. We must never forget that the dominating forces are less concerned about people and selfishly driven by their own comfort, privilege and profit.

This reality of contradiction and advance, reversals and stagnation has

engaged many thoughtful minds in search of answers that ground a theory and praxis for future struggle and greater victories. Snippets: ‘The primary significance of giants in the people’s struggle, like Mandela and Dr. King was not their willingness to hold hands with their enemies. It was their unshakable resolve to do whatever was necessary to bring these enemies to their knees. Their goal was nothing short of freeing their people from the murderous yoke of racial oppression.

They were not the sweet, empty, ineffective personalities of ad agencies, greeting cards or public service messages. Mandela and King were firebrands, liberators, truth tellers — above all they were warriors. That they were not haters does not for a moment minimize the fierceness of their militancy.’ Bob Herbert writing the day after Mandela passed.

Dr. King was murdered more for his indictment of the American government for its military involvement in Viet Nam. He was never forgiven for labeling America as ‘the biggest purveyor of violence in the world.’ Neither was Mandela, who displayed enormous gratitude to Libya’s Gadhafi and Cuba’s Fidel Castro, for their support during the anti-apartheid. ‘These are my friends,’ he famously told the American journalist, Ted Koppel. Mandela was also criticized for his condemnation of the American invasion of Iraq in 2003 as the gravest threat to world peace.

Another view: ‘If we want to remain faithful to Mandela’s legacy, we should thus forget about the celebratory crocodile tears, and focus on the unfulfilled promises to which his leadership give rise. We can safely surmise that, on account of his doubtless moral and political greatness, he was at the end of his life a conflicted old man, well aware how his very political triumph and his elevation into a universal hero was the mask of a bitter defeat. His universal glory is also a sign that he did not disturb the global power structure.’ Slovoj This is hard-hitting commentary, but its truth can be found in the fact that the iconic Mandela was removed from the American state department terrorist watch list in 2008, a year before he stepped down as president of South Africa.

Oscar Allen, a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom, said that Mandela’s passing signified the passing of a torch. Allen lamented that ‘in South Africa and SVG there are very few hands ready to grasp the torch.’ He called on us not just to sing praises to Mandela, but acknowledge the duty to carry forward some of the many task which Mandela took up with such courage and commitment.

It was for these reasons and more that I told Parliamentarians if someone were to ask me who I will like the next set of leaders to be like, I would say without one moment of hesitation, I will like them to be like Mandela.

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

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

2014 budget estimates show ULP cannot manage SVG’s economy The ULP regime is out of its depth in managing the SVG economy. It appears that, yet again, there is manipulation to mislead and to fool the people.

In 2010, the budget estimates jumped from $750m in 2009 to $913m in 2010. We have a repeat now where the budget has jumped from $799m in 2013 to $911m in 2014. Manipulation can give the appearance of growth to fool the people, where in reality there is no growth.

The ULP regime has lost control of the SVG economy. In 2005, the fiscal deficit was only $38m; by 2014, the fiscal deficit has rocketed to a massive $134 million. A total of $835 million dollars of deficit has accumulated in ten years. This shows the ULP regime is utterly hopeless on finance. Time for Gonsalves to resign.

Table showing ULP regime’s economic incompetence

(Source: SVG Budgets Estimates. Researched by Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA) Other receipts is essentially joke expectation. It seems that the ULP regime hopes up to $157m will fall out of the sky into the SVG Treasury. The weaker the economy, the greater the figure is for other receipts, as it is wishful thinking. In 2005, other receipts was $49m; in 2014 it has rocketed to $157m. This shows that the SVG economy is bankrupt and the budget estimate is a joke.

We can see that the figures for external loans for 2010 and 2014 both jumped significantly. The ULP regime is bankrupt, but they are hoping they will get $121m of external loans to survive. The grossly incompetent ULP regime is fooling the people. The

real figure in external loans for next year will more than likely be different, i.e. much, much less.

If you inflate the figures for external loans and other receipts, then the overall budget can be inflated. Note that in 2010, the budget total was at $913 million, and for 2014 budget it is at $911 million. Can the business sector have confidence in joke budgets?

Next year will be tough. More businesses will be forced to close, and this will make rates of unemployment and crime even higher. We can

expect higher taxes and higher bills as the ULP regime hunts around for money.

The ULP regime is immoral in granting the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan and Taiwan blanket tax and customs duty exemptions. South Africans were able to see the light of day and abolish apartheid. The unpatriotic ULP regime must abolish the apartheid and unfair tax system in SVG. The ULP regime’s lifeline is reliance on external loans and foreign grants to stay in office. In 13 years, they have shown no innovation and no creativity in creating revenue and building a strong economy. They just push up tax. They are economically incompetent, and the people are suffering.

SVG needs change.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Dr. Thompson should decline Editor’s Note: This piece is being reprinted from our November 29, 2013 issue due to a lack of printing clarity.

I see from the newspapers that there is some excitement in some of the constituencies, regarding the selection of candidates to contest the next general elections.

That is probably a good sign, indicating that more of the younger people are preparing themselves for the responsibility of taking charge of the affairs of state.

It is my strong opinion, as it pertains to the constituency of North Leeward, that Dr. Jerrol Thompson should not put his name up for the candidacy. His energy could be put to better use and more effective service as a medical doctor, the area in which he is eminently qualified.

We are all aware that the area of health care in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is woefully short of where we had projected it should have been at this time.

While it is admitted that the weakness of the economy over the last several years has had its impact on several areas of national business, the evidence that there has been recklessness and gross mismanagement, has been irrefutably documented.

The people of the villages of the parish of St. David - Spring Village, Coull’s Hill, Rose Hall, Troumaca, Rose Bank, Petit Bordel and the town of

Chateaubelair and its suburbs - have been neglected for far too long, with respect to social services and job opportunities. So those of us who can, must express towards the hope for a significant improvement in their circumstances.

Here are some of the areas which have for years been frustrating the efforts of the people of the aforementioned villages: 1. The inadequate allocation of transport for students of the area.

2. The failure of government to attend to the feeder roads so vital to farming activity which has been the economic mainstay of the people for generations.

3. The disdain for the people as exhibited by the ULP’s handling of the vexing question of the Cumberland Playing Field project.

During Dr. Thompson’s stint as parliamentary representative of the area, he did not, at any time, seem to command the respect of his cabinet colleagues, sufficient to influence them to act caringly, to address those issues which were crying out for attention.

On the contrary, he seemed enthused to high-handedly enter on to the prosperity of a widow, Herman Dennie, in the attempt to settle on her lands at Cumberland Estate, persons who had been displaced from their holdings at Belle Isle.

Readers will no doubt

remember that the present ULP government attempted to acquire Mrs Dennie’s lands at 18 cents per square foot, despite the fact that she had sold some of the same lands to the previous Mitchell administration at the rate of $1.50 per sq. ft.

Dr. Thompson seemed to be in the forefront of blatant injustice against a quiet law-abiding respectful and wellrespected family of the community.

With respect to the Cumberland Playing Field, Dr. Thompson was, in the opinion of many, the read player in hoodwinking us as to the government’s determination to have that project completed.

The people of St. David are happy that the people of South Rivers have a good playing field today. It seems as though it took but a ‘wink’ from conception to commissioning. Why should Cumberland be taking twenty years to complete?

On the basis of the foregoing, I do not think

Dr. Jerrol Thompson was unseated by Patel Matthews as parliamentary representative for North Leeward in the 2010 general elections. that Dr. Thompson should be considered as a candidate for election to be the parliamentary representative of the people of North Leeward.

He has had his fair chance. Let us hear now what the new men have to say.

LeRoy Providence

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 13.

News

Down to earth productively

the islands would not be bad in some AS FARMERS CONTINUE of the other to receive training in islands, but it was modern and productive definitely not practices under the suitable for St. Banana Accompanying Vincent,” he added.

Measures project, several Fullerton groups of farmers were explained that St. this week given new Vincent has some insight into the unusual volcanic ash soil make up of the Vincentian which is different soil type, and shown how, from the soils with proper testing and formed from focused treatment, the volcanic lava, and output from their farms the chemistry is can increase. just the opposite of Caribbean Soil the other soils. “So Caribbean Soil Scientist Scientist Dr. Terrence problems that Dr. Terrence Fullerton.

Fullerton, who runs an occur here don’t magnesium. He outlined international soil testing occur elsewhere.” various options for lab in Florida, held a “For example, here adding them, including series of training and you have a lack of a granular on soil sensitization sessions nutrient called application, adding to with local farmers last manganese. St. Lucia, irrigation systems, or week to discuss his which is your next door spraying. research and why it neighbor, has so much After the sessions, shows farms are not that it’s toxic. They have several farmers producing at their to try to reduce the highest capacity. Dr. amount — you have to try expressed new Fullerton’s visit is part of to increase the amount,” commitment to soil the BAM project, advised the soil scientist. testing and focused fertilizer use.

“So the “I’ve been fertilizing approach to for years, but never fertilization in St. knew that fertilizer Vincent has to be application goes a far different to St. way, more than just Lucia, and so far St. Vincent has not fertilizing,” said Arthur Samuel, a banana and been using a St. mixed crop farmer from Vincent focused Marriaqua. “Today I approach, but rather a Windward learned about soil testing, and most of all I Islands approach learned that to be a which is not productive farmer, you working here,” Fullerton went on. must have your soil tested to know exactly Dr. Fullerton, who worked during what kind of fertilizer to Letisha Samuel, a banana and the 1990s with the put on,” he added.

Letisha Samuel, a Windward Islands root crop farmer from banana and root crop Banana company Vermont. farmer of Vermont WINBAN said added; financed by the Vincentian banana “We need to learn European Union to farmers then “were the more about these things modernize and develop best in terms of how they because we just farming agriculture in St. maintained their fields, and doing it in our own Vincent and the but they got the lowest way. Sometimes the soil Grenadines. production because of needs different nutrients “St. Vincent and the this (different soil type) and we don’t know. The Grenadines as a soil problem.” type, is totally different Dr. Fullerton advised whole world is going different now, everybody from the rest of the that farmers think looking to different ways (Eastern Caribbean) broader than soil of farming, and we have islands, with the fertility, and need to to fit ourselves in exception of Montserrat. conduct soil tests to because it is for our Totally different determine which problems needing totally nutrients are required to survival.”

Benjamin Ackie of different solutions” Dr. meet each specific plant Vermont, who specializes Fullerton said of his needs. He said in in bananas said: findings which also addition to the “I heard a lot I didn’t match those of earlier traditional NPK know about. I really study done here in the fertilisers being used, want to see how the soil 1950s by the Trinidadother requirements, in testing working because, based Imperial College of varying amounts for performing in bananas, if Tropical Agriculture. “So different plant types you don’t do the right the technique of using include, manganese, thing, you aint making one fertilizer through all zinc, baron and nothing out of it.”

by KENVILLE HORNE

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14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Vincentians return $150,000 to Argyle airport

Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY GOVERNOR GENERAL Sir Frederick Ballantyne is full of admiration for the group of Returning Vincentian nationals. Sir Frederick praised them for their passion as regards completion of the Argyle International Airport.

“It warms my heart,” Sir Frederick admitted.

He commended the group on the “level of commitment to continuing to contribute to the development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Sir Frederick accepted a cheque worth EC$150,000 raised by the Returning Nationals from a raffle they undertook.

Chairperson of the Returning Nationals Nyoka Clouden thanked

those who contributed to making the raffle a success. She was grateful to the Mustique Airways for the car which served as first prize. Y De Lima came in for praises for the stove which went to the second prize winner, and the Stephens family was showered with appreciation for the third prize to a couple at their Alexandrina Hotel.

Cruickshank also thanked the Friends of Argyle in New York from whom they enlisted solidarity.

The government and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves received homage for their courage in taking on the venture.

Chief Executive Officer of the International Airport Development Company Dr. Rudy Matthias regarded last Wednesday December 11 as

“significant,” for the Argyle International airport.

He admitted that there was “very good progress” on the venture, and thanked the Returning Nationals for their financial assistance.

Matthias gave an update Returning Nationals at Government House after handing over $150,000.00 to the IADC. on the project.

“I am delighted about December 30 this year, started in 2005 and their be paved by July 2014. view of it as “mission The Control Tower the progress we have the Terminal Building impossible.” and Fire Stations should made,” Matthias stated. will be handed over to He praised the be complete by July He was similarly pleased the International Airport government for being according to Matthias. with the support that the Development Company. “steadfast and prepared The Terminal Building Returning Nationals Matthias strolled to deliver on its promise.” will be rebooted, and have been providing. down nostalgia’s lane By next week, Matthias promised Air The money will help to and outlined: “We need Bridges so that set up and maintain a to look back and see the Concrete Mixing and road we have travelled.” Asphalt Plants will be in passengers will not have Cultural Village on the to worry about getting on grounds of the new He reflected on doubts operation. The CEO and off the aircraft when airport. some persons had about anticipates that the it rains. the venture and when it runway and apron will

You need to be sceptical: Constance MARCELLUS CONSTANCE, Information Communication Technology officer in the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, is warning persons to be “sceptical” in the way they go about using their telecommunications devices.

The warning came at the Layou Learning Resource last Tuesday. It was another of the NTRC’s drive to bring persons up to date with usage of internet facilities.

Constance touched on Cyber-security and identity theft.

“Be cautious while using the Internet,” he continued.

“Persons must be cautious when opening emails,” Constance advised. As far as Constance was concerned, there is no excuse for anyone to be liberal about details on the internet.

“Try not to share too much information on line,” Constance advised.

He encouraged users to “ensure that the software you use are up to date.”

Pirated software must be avoided, he added.

Constance pointed to the prevalence of bullying on the internet, and he outlined some of the harmful effects that such behaviour can

Persons get hands on training in Information Communication Technology at the Layou Resource Centre last Tuesday. have on the victim.

Hacking is another aspect of concern to Constance, and he warned to look out for such activities.

Kyron Duncan, USF Administrator at the NTRC, outlined his institution’s role.

That includes management of the Universal Service Fund, derived from annual contributions from telecom providers. NTRC reviews applications for persons seeking telecom licences.

They monitor and ensure that license holders comply with the conditions given.

Duncan expressed pride

with the Maritime Project which this country has implemented. That allows that fishermen have VHF coverage. He echoed the accomplishments whereby Police Stations and Health clinics have that linkage to speed up communications.

For Duncan, the Smart Project is an advancement.

That allows students to the Community College to get lectures on their devices without having to be in class.

Duncan and his team will be happy to pass on their knowledge, no matter how many persons turn up to their sessions.

Bargain TV launched

by KENVILLE HORNE IMAGINE GETTING discounts on a wide range of products from the comfort of your home, with only a call or a text away. Well this is a reality with the launching of Bargain TV. The program Bargain L-R: Kevin Robinson, Candice Sealey, Auldine Brown,LIME Marketing lead TV was launched Wednesday at Music Nikala Williams, Merlicia Bobb and Center in Kingstown.

Steve Wallace.

Candice Sealey, Marketing and Public Relation Consultant of Bargain TV, described the initiative as a LIVE teleshopping programme that is set to benefit businesses throughout SVG, as well as the general public “especially during the festive season, though the programme will last beyond the season.”

Businesses are crying out for low sales, while A demonstration of what Bargain TV shoppers are commenting would look like. that “things are tight.”

Therefore Bargain TV seeks at it on your Tablet, on your to assist both businesses and Smart phone, as well as on your customers. The program will be laptop” explained Sealey. aired on Mondays and Thursdays Persons viewing the program from 9pm on IKTV and online, and recognizing any interesting and will see new products being deal can call or text 4531000. offered at reduce dprices.

The program will run in seasons, “The prices that would be with each season lasting 13 offered on Bargain TV are very weeks. low, but they are only available Sealey is appealing to persons there (on Bargain TV), they who will be calling or texting to cannot be found in store” said do so hastily, since only five Sealey. persons will get the deal at the “The program would be aired end of each program. live, so if you don’t have access to your television, you can still look Continued on Page 29.

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

In the eyes of fellow revolutionaries HILST MUCH IS BEING MADE of the almost saintly qualities of the late Nelson Mandela, it is just as important that history remembers him as he was - a fervent and committed African liberation fighter.

Perhaps the best glimpses of this can be obtained from tributes by two of his ANC compatriots, jailed alongside him by the apartheid regime.

First is Walter Sisulu, Mandela’s closest comrade-in arms, Secretary-General of the ANC 1949-54, and Deputy President of the organisation from 199194. Sisulu, who died in 2003, co-founded the ANC’s armed wing with Mandela. He spent 26 years in prison with Mandela, 1963-1989, before international pressure forced his release.

The following are excerpts from a tribute

by Sisulu towards the end of his own life, which sadly he did not live to see published.

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An indelible footprint “As he rests in his eternal sleep, I am

certain of one thing: that Madiba’s face is enveloped in a gentle, enduring smile. No, not the broad beaming smile we are accustomed to ...

Rather, the quiet smile, reflective, born out of looking over his life and times; a smile tinged with a hint of mischievousness for having beaten the odds, cheated the hangman and knowing that he had helped make South Africa and the world a better place. Overarching his life of struggle, hardship, humiliation, pain and suffering, there must be the sense of fulfilment that he has left an indelible footprint in the service of humankind.

“His is a life that touched millions not only in South Africa,but throughout the world.

For the greater part of his life he was a beacon of the struggle. In his later years he became the symbol of hope. In death he stands confirmed as the embodiment of humanity’s hope for the future... “...In everything that Mandela has said-be it in

writing or the spoken word- his focus has always been on the oppression- the causes, form and consequences. ….He was born into oppression. There was no choice in that. But he never allowed this to preclude him about making choices about his life…….He was part of a people who were and remain the victims of oppression, and he never compromised with the perpetrators of oppression... “...Somewhere between 1941 and 1944, Madiba reached the moment when his life was committed to the struggle of the oppressed.

His choices thereafter were always to be made on the basis of what was required and in the best interests of the struggle.

All other interests, personal or family, took second place to the demands of the liberation of the people... “...He did not hesitate to accept the tasks imposed on him by the Defiance Campaign (1952). He was there when it was necessary to go underground and live the life of an outlaw in

Mandela campaigning in Mmabatho on March, 15, 1994 in the lead-up to South Africa's first democratic and multiracial general election. (Photos from www.nbcnews.com)

1960 at the conclusion of the four-year long Treason Trial. He stood uncompromising in the defence of our ideals when we faced the prospect of death in the Rivonia Trial (1963/64).

This was a commitment that took him from Freedom Fighter to Prisoner, to President.

With it went a stubbornness that at times seemed unrelenting... Whatever Madiba did, he did it with persistence, application and zeal... “....He brought the same application and tenacity as he grappled with political and philosophical ideas. He could be unrelenting, even ruthless in debate.

However his stubbornness was mitigated by his capacity to listen to the views and arguments of those from whom he differed... Once he embraced an idea, he would champion it vigorously... “...He was at heart a man of action. And when he loved, he loved. This was true of his public and private life. And because he was so generous and giving of himself, he touched so many of our lives... that he could go on living with hope.”

Two days after his release, Mandela addresses a rally attended by over 100 000 people at Soccer City Stadium in Soweto on Feb. 13, 1990.

“I first met him in the forties... but it was during the Rivonia Trial, 20 years later, that I came to know best his formidable courage and determination. At our fist legal consultation, our lawyers made clear to us the very real prospect of the death sentence. In subsequent discussions among ourselves, Mdala (Mandela) set the tone.

He said we should conduct it as a political trial and carry ourselves with dignity and pride.

The eyes of the world and the people were upon us and we dare not show weakness. We could not rely on the Appeal Court to upset a death sentence. Only the struggle and international solidarity could save us from the gallows. Therefore in the event of a death Formidable courage sentence, we should not and determination lodge an appeal.

“He spoke so The second set of powerfully and extracts are taken from convincingly that it left Ahmed Kathrada, little need for debate; we another ANC fellowaccepted his lead and prisoner from 1964/89 prepared for the worst. who later became Mandela’s Parliamentary This stance was Counsellor from 1994 to consistent with a characteristic that ran 1999.

like a thread through all facets of Mdala’s personality; once convinced of the correctness of a certain position, he would internalise it and adopt it with passion... “...Mdala had a reputation for being level-headed, cool and unflappable... One day in January 1985 he was called to the office, and as usual we eagerly awaited his return. After a while he came back, greeted us, then went straight to his desk and busied himself. After a while he called us together and informed us that he had been told that (South African) President Botha had offered to release him and all political prisoners if we undertook not to indulge in violence. They wanted our reply within a specified time. We did not have to debate the offer; the condition attached was completely unacceptable. We drafted our reply, rejecting it.”

(Note: These extracts were taken from a commemorative magazine published by THE INDEPENDENT, UK)

16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute to Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela by his Xhosa clan name, Madiba, Mandela DR. THE HONOURABLE demonstrated over his RALPH E. GONSALVES long life, his unwavering PRIME MINISTER OF ST. commitment to uplifting VINCENT AND THE human values, an absence GRENADINES of bitterness and hatred, even towards those who ELSON MANDELA is unjustly imprisoned him dead at 95 years of for 27 years; an enduring age. He was a devotion to humanity’s Revolutionary; an Iconic better side, and the Global Fighter for Equality, bountiful possibilities of Justice, Peace, and the human spirit.

Democracy; a World Groomed in the Statesman of the highest Thembu royal family, quality; former President of Mandela’s thirst for South Africa and Founding knowledge and education Father of his Nation; an to buttress his early grace Exemplary Family Man; a and wisdom, led him to Most Extraordinary Human study law at Fort Hare Being and Humanist; and a University and the Man after God’s Own Heart. University of He remains an example to Withwatersrand in South emulate, a continuing Africa. At a young age, he inspiration for service to became immersed in antihumanity, and a leader to colonial politics and the follow. quest for majority rule in Affectionately-known in a South Africa governed South Africa and globally by a white minority group BY

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descended from settlers.

Accordingly, he joined the African Nationalist Congress (ANC), the liberation movement in South Africa, and was a founding-member of the ANC’s Youth League.

Young Vincentians today can learn greatly from Mandela’s early commitments and strength.

When the racist South African National Party assumed power in 1948 and established, formally, the cruel and oppressive apartheid system of “racial separateness,” Mandela’s determination and militancy in his long walk to freedom, intensified.

The brutality and unjust nature of apartheid led Mandela to link his people’s strategic quest for freedom, not only to peaceful political activities, but also to the

necessity of armed struggle. Thus, he cofounded the Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the military wing of the ANC; and he built a solidarity political alliance and supportive network with the South African Communist Party.

After years of harassing and terrorising Mandela, the security and judicial apparatuses of the racist South African regime finally succeeded in imprisoning him in 1964, with a life sentence. The unraveling of the apartheid regime internally, the growing strength of the liberation struggle led by the ANC, and an international campaign, finally caused the apartheid government to release Mandela in 1990, after some 27 years in jail.

Events moved swiftly, and in 1994, free and fair multi-racial, multi-party elections were held in South Africa. Nelson Mandela and his ANC won the general elections overwhelmingly. Mandela became President and led a government of national unity to aid in the process of reconciliation, constitutional re-making, and nation-building. He served one term as President and voluntarily relinquished office in 1998.

He was succeeded by his much younger deputy, Thabo Mbeki, who was in turn succeeded by Jacob Zuma, both of the ANC. After demitting the Office of President of South Africa, Mandela devoted much of his time to a bundle of worthy causes, including the fight against HIV/AIDS, sports as a unifier of people, peace and reconciliation, and African unity.

There are some forces internationally which seek, selectively, to rewrite Mandela’s life story in their own image and interest. Those, for example, who labelled Mandela and the ANC as terrorists during the epic years of anti-apartheid struggle now want to make it appear that it was the goodly work of a few former apartheid apostles who experienced a Damascus conversion and the “constructive engagement” of the governments of the USA and some European countries, were principally responsible for apartheid’s

demise. Such persons attempt to write out of the real story the outstanding solidarity contributions to the liberation struggle and the ANC from, for example, ordinary people of all walks of life internationally, the Soviet Union, Gadhafi’s Libya, and the defeat of the racist South African army at the epic battle of Cuito Cuanavale at the hands of the Cuban fighters, the Angolans, and ANC Prime Minister Dr. Hon. patriots. These very selective historians down- Ralph Gonsalves play the militancy of the in part, by the esteemed revolutionaries in South accolades he received Africa, including those in the joint endeavours of the world-wide, among them being: the Nobel Peace ANC and the South African Communist Party. Prize, the Soviet Order of We must be aware of these Lenin, the US Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the revisionist, self-serving Bharat Ratna. history-tellers, On behalf of the particularly in sections of government and people of the established western St. Vincent and the media.

Many of my generation Grenadines, I express profound condolences to were particularly moved the government and

by Mandela’s fortitude, people of South Africa, to humility, and high Madiba’s widow, Graça, to principle, to offer support for majority-rule in South his former wife, Winnie, to his children, Africa and for his release grandchildren and greatfrom jail. We formed grandchildren, and to his African Liberation entire family and close Committees and participated accordingly in friends. At this moment of profound sadness, we are political activities with at one with the world in these objectives in mind. celebrating Madiba’s At Mandela’s death, we extraordinary life. The remember the entire world, including his contributions of all these former foes, rightly claim persons. Especially, too, him as their own. we remember and May Madiba’s soul rest celebrate the huge in peace, and may light sacrifices of Mandela’s comrades-in-arms such as perpetual shine upon him.

The flag of St. Vincent Oliver Tambo, Giovanni and the Grenadines is to Mbeki, and Walter Sisulu, be flown at half-mast on as well as younger the day of Madiba’s warriors of blessed funeral. memory such as Steve Biko. We remember Joe Slovo and his wife Ruth First and other committed compatriots, who were not Black African, for their immense sacrifices and love of freedom.

We are fortunate to have lived during the lifetime of a colossus, Nelson Mandela, our Mandela urged the U.N. to maintain extraordinary sanctions against South Africa Madiba. until apartheid was abolished- UN Mandela’s global stature June 22, 1990. (Photo from was reflected, www.nbcnews.com)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 17.

Statement on the death of Nelson Mandela HE LEADER, Executive Members and Supporters of the New Democratic Party join with the rest of the world in reflecting on the life, death and legacy of Nelson Mandela, Freedom Fighter, Activist, Former President of South Africa and world citizen, who left us yesterday, December 5, 2013.

Mandela was an Icon whose legacy will continue to be the subject of many a film, book, political and government study, and publication for years and years to come. He was influential, not only in his home of South Africa but across the world, and across all cultural, racial, religious and social barriers. Mandela was a true world leader, who survived persecution, and led the reconciliation efforts in South Africa, a country torn apart by Apartheid, which many felt could easily have derailed after Mandela’s release from Robben Island in 1990 and inevitable

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election as that nation’s President.

His inspirational writings and speeches, have been quoted and referenced by other world leaders who have over the last twenty-four hours shared some of what they have learnt from his courage, humility, integrity and sheer joy for life. In his later years, Madiba, (his tribal name) became a mentor to many who would journey to his home in South Africa to listen to his wise counsel.

There are no words to describe the loss which his family and the people of his nation must be feeling at this time. We, the people of Saint

SVG Green Party on Mandela’s passing VG GREEN PARTY joins the world in its sympathy and tribute of Africa’s greatest fighter for freedom.

SVG Green Party joins the world in expressing its condolences and tribute to the government and all the people of South Africa on the passing of the great Hero, Nelson Mandela.

Nelson Mandela will always be remembered as a great Hero and inspiration, for the sacrifice he gave fighting for freedom for all Leader of the SVG in South Africa.

Green Party, The passing of Nelson Ivan O’Neal Mandela is a great loss to the world.

May his soul rest in peace.

S

Ivan O’Neal BSc(Hons), MSc, MBA Leader and co-founder SVG Green Party

Vincent and the Grenadines embodied by Nelson Mandela. join them in mourning their May he Rest In Peace. loss. A light has gone out in our world, but its glow will endure New Democratic Party in the lives of those of us who will long try to emulate the grit, resilience, determination, Leader of the Opposition, humility, courage, and wisdom Hon. Arnhim Eustace

18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Barack Obama's address at Nelson Mandela's memorial service O GRACA MACHEL and the Mandela family; to President Zuma and members of the government; to heads of state and government, past and present; distinguished guests - it is a singular honour to be with you today, to celebrate a life unlike any other. To the people of

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South Africa– people of every race and walk of life – the world thanks you for sharing Nelson Mandela with us. His struggle was your struggle. His triumph was your triumph. Your dignity and hope found expression in his life, and your freedom, your democracy is his cherished

legacy.

It is hard to eulogise any man — to capture in words not just the facts and the dates that make a life, but the essential truth of a person — their private joys and sorrows; the quiet moments and unique qualities that illuminate someone's soul.

How much harder to do so for a giant of history, who moved a nation toward justice, and in the process moved billions around the world.

Born during world war one, far from the corridors of power, a boy raised herding cattle and tutored by elders of his Thembu

tribe — Madiba would emerge as the last great liberator of the 20th century. Like Gandhi, he would lead a resistance movement — a movement that at its start held little prospect of success. Like King, he would give potent voice to the claims of the oppressed, and the moral necessity of racial justice. He would American president Barack endure a brutal imprisonment that Obama delivering his address at began in the time the memorial service. of Kennedy and Khrushchev, and was right that he reached the final days of inherited, "a proud the Cold War. Emerging rebelliousness, a stubborn from prison, without force sense of fairness" from his of arms, he would — like father. Certainly he Lincoln — hold his country shared with millions of together when it black and coloured South threatened to break apart. Africans the anger born of, Like America's founding "a thousand slights, a fathers, he would erect a thousand indignities, a constitutional order to thousand unremembered preserve freedom for moments … a desire to future generations — a fight the system that commitment to democracy imprisoned my people". and rule of law ratified not But like other early only by his election, but by giants of the ANC — the his willingness to step Sisulus and Tambos — down from power.

Madiba disciplined his Given the sweep of his anger; and channelled his life, and the adoration desire to fight into that he so rightly earned, organisation, and it is tempting then to platforms, and strategies remember Nelson for action, so men and Mandela as an icon, women could stand-up for smiling and serene, their dignity. Moreover, he detached from the tawdry accepted the consequences affairs of lesser men. But of his actions, knowing Madiba himself strongly that standing up to resisted such a lifeless powerful interests and portrait. Instead, he injustice carries a price. "I insisted on sharing with have fought against white us his doubts and fears; domination and I have his miscalculations along fought against black with his victories. "I'm not domination," he said at his a saint," he said, "unless 1964 trial. "I've cherished you think of a saint as a the ideal of a democratic sinner who keeps on and free society in which trying." all persons live together in It was precisely because harmony and with equal he could admit to opportunities. It is an imperfection — because he ideal which I hope to live could be so full of good for and to achieve. But if humour, even mischief, needs be, it is an ideal for despite the heavy burdens which I am prepared to he carried — that we loved die." him so. He was not a bust Mandela taught us the made of marble; he was a power of action, but also man of flesh and blood — a ideas; the importance of son and husband, a father reason and arguments; the and a friend. That is why need to study not only we learned so much from those you agree with, but him; that is why we can those who you don't. He learn from him still. For understood that ideas nothing he achieved was cannot be contained by inevitable. In the arc of prison walls, or his life, we see a man who extinguished by a sniper's earned his place in history bullet. He turned his trial through struggle and into an indictment of shrewdness; persistence apartheid because of his and faith. He tells us eloquence and passion, but what's possible not just in also his training as an the pages of dusty history advocate. He used decades books, but in our own lives in prison to sharpen his as well. arguments, but also to Mandela showed us the spread his thirst for power of action; of taking knowledge to others risks on behalf of our ideals. Perhaps Madiba Continued on Page 19.

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

U.S. President Barack Obama pays his respect to Nelson Mandela's widow Graca Machel after his speech at the memorial service.

(Photo from www.nbcnews.com)

Barack Obama's address at Nelson Mandela's memorial service Continued from Page 18. in the movement. And he learned the language and customs of his oppressor so that one day he might better convey to them how their own freedom depended upon his.

Mandela demonstrated that action and ideas are not enough; no matter how right, they must be chiselled into laws and institutions. He was practical, testing his beliefs against the hard surface of circumstance and history. On core principles he was unyielding, which is why he could rebuff offers of conditional release, reminding the Apartheid regime that, "prisoners cannot enter into contracts". But as he showed in painstaking negotiations to transfer power and draft new laws, he was not afraid to compromise for the sake of a larger goal. And because he was not only a leader of a movement, but a skilful politician, the Constitution that emerged was worthy of this multiracial democracy; true to his vision of laws that protect minority as well as majority rights, and the precious freedoms of every South African.

Finally, Mandela understood the ties that bind the human spirit.

There is a word in South Africa — Ubuntu — that describes his greatest gift: his recognition that we are all bound together in ways that can be invisible to the eye; that there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us. We can never know how much of this was innate in him, or how much was shaped and burnished in a dark, solitary cell. But we remember the gestures, large and small introducing his jailors as honoured guests at his inauguration; taking the pitch in a Springbok uniform; turning his family's heartbreak into a call to confront HIV/AIDS — that revealed the depth of his empathy and understanding. He not only embodied Ubuntu; he taught millions to find that truth within themselves. It took a man like Madiba to free not just the prisoner, but the jailor as well; to show that you must trust others so that they may trust you; to teach that reconciliation is not a matter of ignoring a cruel past, but a means of confronting it with inclusion, generosity and truth. He changed laws, but also hearts.

For the people of South Africa, for those he inspired around the globe

— Madiba's passing is rightly a time of mourning, and a time to celebrate his heroic life.

But I believe it should also prompt in each of us a time for self-reflection.

With honesty, regardless of our station or circumstance, we must ask: how well have I applied his lessons in my own life?

It is a question I ask myself — as a man and as a president. We know that like South Africa, the United States had to overcome centuries of racial subjugation. As was true here, it took the sacrifice of countless people - known and unknown - to see the dawn of a new day. Michelle and I are the beneficiaries of that struggle. But in America and South Africa, and countries around the globe, we cannot allow our progress to cloud the fact that our work is not done.

The struggles that follow the victory of formal equality and universal franchise may not be as filled with drama and moral clarity as those that came before, but they are no less important. For around the world today, we still see children suffering from hunger, and disease; run-down schools, and few prospects for the future. Around the world today, men and women are still imprisoned for their political beliefs; and are still persecuted for what they look like, or how they worship, or who they love.

We, too, must act on behalf of justice. We, too, must act on behalf of peace. There are too many of us who happily embrace Madiba's legacy of racial reconciliation, but passionately resist even modest reforms that would challenge chronic poverty and growing inequality.

There are too many leaders who claim solidarity with Madiba's struggle for freedom, but do not tolerate dissent from their own people.

And there are too many of us who stand on the sidelines, comfortable in complacency or cynicism when our voices must be heard.

The questions we face today — how to promote equality and justice; to uphold freedom and human rights; to end conflict and sectarian war — do not have easy answers. But there were no easy answers in front of that child in Qunu. Nelson Mandela reminds us that it always seems impossible until it is done. South Africa shows us that is true. South Africa shows us we can change. We can choose to live in a world defined not by our differences, but by our

common hopes. We can choose a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and justice and opportunity.

We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. But let me say to the young people of Africa, and young people around the world - you can make his life's work your own.

Over thirty years ago, while still a student, I learned of Mandela and the struggles in this land.

It stirred something in me.

It woke me up to my responsibilities - to others, and to myself - and set me on an improbable journey that finds me here today.

And while I will always fall short of Madiba's example, he makes me want to be better. He speaks to what is best inside us. After this great liberator is laid to rest; when we have returned to our cities and villages, and rejoined our daily

routines, let us search then for his strength - for his largeness of spirit somewhere inside ourselves. And when the night grows dark, when injustice weighs heavy on our hearts, or our best laid plans seem beyond our reach - think of Madiba, and the words that brought him comfort within the four walls of a cell: It matters not how strait

the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.

What a great soul it was. We will miss him deeply. May God bless the memory of Nelson Mandela. May God bless the people of South Africa.

20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

In memory of a remarkable man HE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES joins in extending deepest condolences to the government and people of South Africa on the death of former President Nelson Mandela.

One of the most remarkable human beings of this country, Nelson Mandela showed the world the true meaning of strength in the face of adversity. His struggle for equal rights for South Africans, black and white, remains a clarion call for all mankind to acknowledge and embrace

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the fact that we are all one human race.

Mr. Mandela was the epitome of humanity, strength of character, and his capacity for forgiveness was without equal. His vision of “a democratic and free Mandela being awarded society in which all the Nobel Peace Prize at persons live together in harmony and with equal a ceremony in Oslo, opportunities” for his Norway on Dec. 10, beloved South Africa was 1993.

partly realised during his lifetime, and we can only hope that his successors will continue to strive towards achieving his vision.

In 1991, The University was honoured to confer upon him the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws.

The words of our distinguished Public Orator as he welcomed the Hon. Nelson Rolihlahla

Mandela are particularly emotive: “…visionary, freedomfighter, statesman and patriot, mentor to the young and to all who prefer liberation to mental slavery, this prophet, priest and in his own ways king, warrior, compassionate, peacemaker defiant, visionary pragmatic and man for all seasons, this

lodestar for all who wish to be on the right side of history…”

Nelson Mandela was all this and more and, along with the rest of the world, we at The University of the West Indies mourn our collective loss of a great man.

E.Nigel Harris Vice-Chancellor

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 21.

Vincy community leaders pay tribute to Nelson Mandela honor of “the venerable Nelson Mandela.”

“These gestures were indications of the reach of his influence and the magnitude of his reputation,” she said.

“He has touched the life of almost every person on planet earth.

“And I have sought his guidance through his books and the books written about him, as I begin my tenure as Permanent Representative of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United Nations,” she added.

Maxwell Haywood, chairman of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York and a UN development officer, said Mandela’s life

by NELSON A. KING “encapsulates the unending naking@verizon.net; need of human beings to be free. neloking@msn.com “He represents the best US CORRESPONDENT African traditions of leadership,” said Haywood, who VINCENTIAN COMMUNITY hails from New Grounds, LEADERS and diplomats in New stating that this tradition York have joined the global provided Mandela “the spirit to community in paying tribute to Nelson Mandela, the former South lead a movement that fought one of the most exploitative African leader and peace regimes the world has ever advocate, who died on Dec. 5, at seen. the age of 95, after a prolonged “He conquered the urge to let illness. bitterness against his deadly UN Ambassador I. Rhonda enemies arrest the power of his King, told THE VINCENTIAN principles,” he added. “He never that Madiba, as Mandela was affectionately called, “has left a promoted revenge against those profound legacy, which includes who hunted him, those who imprisoned him, those who the pursuit of freedom and tortured him. human rights, tolerance, “He never hunted those who compassion and reconciliation. took away his freedom and “As we seek to proclaim an fundamental human rights,” international decade for people Haywood continued. “He had as of African descent here at the the prize — a free South Africa.

United Nations this year, we He wanted justice for black must recall this legacy,” she people because of all their said. suffering under Apartheid, and “As our region begins its he wanted a society in which all quest for reparations, we must its citizens can live in peace.” take note of Mandela’s way,” He noted that Mandela she added. “Re-empowerment “tirelessly and selflessly fought will call for a variety of tools against a system that preached and approaches.

“Things are rarely black and and practiced that black people white; and so, Mandela learned were inferior to all other races,” pointing out that Apartheid to appreciate the shades of gray,” the envoy continued. “He promoted the ideology that “the only thing black people were learned that sometimes the answer was neither yes nor no. worthy of was to be slaves for Sometimes, it was both. In fact, white people.”

Haywood said that “racist for Mandela, it was always both. ideology” was also instituted in “That life is complex, that the education system, popularly courage is not the absence of fear, that the road to freedom is called “Bantu education”, adding that Mandela committed long — are but a few of the his life “selflessly to lead the lessons Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela has left behind,” King struggle to destroy this form of legalized and institutionalized said. “It behooves us to take racism.” note.”

He said Mandela’s passing is She said when Mandela’s “a teachable moment for all of death was announced at the us, the entire world.

United Nations, 194 flags were “And this moment is lowered to half-mast. important for the young people That evening (Dec. 5), she of all races. They need to know said she attended a dinner what happened and why event, hosted by a European Mandela became who he was,” colleague, at which there were he said. representatives from Europe, “They need to get the Africa, Asia, and Caribbean and message clearly that racism the Pacific-island states.

King said the event began by destroys both its victims and its observing a minute of silence in perpetrators,” Haywood added.

“Mandela’s life and the Howard also said he had Mandela had emerged from movement he represented have joined the United Africa 27 years of imprisonment to left a glorious legacy for Movement, led by US civil become South Africa's first generations to come.” rights activists the Rev. Al black President, and was known Laverne McDowaldSharpton and lawyer Alton worldwide for his compassionate Thompson, president of the Maddux, who vociferously yet determined efforts to Brooklyn-based Council of St. opposed Apartheid and dismantle the country's legacy Vincent and the Grenadines’ Mandela’s then life-long jail of apartheid, the UN said.

Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. sentence.

“Today, in this Assembly of (COSAGO), the umbrella “The second Sunday in Nations, we mourn the loss of Vincentian group in the United February 1990, Mandela walked Mr. Nelson Mandela, one of our States, said “the world has lost out of jail, but the struggle world's greatest leaders,” said a great leader” in Mandela. continues,” he said.

Assembly President John Ashe, “His life’s work has left us Last Friday, the United who is also Antigua and many lessons, which we can Nations said its “family of Barbuda’s Ambassador to the learn from,” said the nations” mourned the loss — and UN. Chateaubelair native. celebrated the enduring legacy — “The number of recognitions of Mandela.

Continued on Page 22. and honors Mandela has received throughout his lifetime reflect his profound leadership qualities,” she added. “He had great Featured in the News newspaper a few days before the release of Mr. respect for Mandela, then published in my 2nd book “Heading for the habour” in 1992. democracy, and Josiah Bobb abided by majority decisions — even if South Africa under it do or die hard policy, not in agreement.

Taken away the black South Africans’ freedom and their dignity, And these, we all Under the watchful eyes of your racist regime, should emulate in Just to prevent a Nelson Mandela dream, our organizations.”

The inhumanity they’re showing to this one man, McDowaldShows to the world you’re heartless men Thompson also noted With all your might, your power and your guns, Mandela’s All black Africans must continue to fight for equality and freedom, humanitarian work, While the rest of the world stood by, some because of their economic ties, stating that he had Failing to heed the Black South Africans’ cries, done “a great deal in The time will come, take it from me, combating poverty When all Black Africans will be free. and inequality.

In prison don’t let Nelson Mandela die, “He was a very If that ever be, I’ll hold the South African regime guilty and this is why: forgiving person,” They imprisoned Mandela against his fight she said. “That’s what we all need to And robbed him of his democratic right, do to make this Here in the west. world a better place.”

Liberation and emancipation unshackled the chains that bind us, Douglas Howard, Freedom broke down the barriers behind us, the Edinboro-born Yet back in South Africa land of apartheid might, president of the They continue to oppress the Blacks with hatred and spite, Brooklyn-based St. Many stay silent afraid to talk because of fright, Vincent and the Even in the jungle the animals are running free, Grenadines Yet Nelson Mandela is kept in captivity, Progressive Tell me is that right? It can’t be right, Organization of New Even the thought of it sickens me.

York (SPOONY), the Apartheid might rob them of their dignity, New York arm of the For them there are no kinds of amnesty, main opposition New Apartheid man, you entered their land with Bible in your hand, Democratic Party With your non-religious plans you fooled my brother man, (NDP), said Mandela Missionary man what were your plans? was “one of our good Wasn’t it to take away their freedom and their land? and just fighters.”

Now you hold many captive without trials, justice or mercy, Howard said, though he had heard Why all the hate and brutality? about Mandela’s Tell me, what is the blasted matter? works while growing With all you freedom fighters. up at home, “it never Why are you taking so long? hit me until I came To free this innocent man to the USA in 1983.”

Nelson Mandela.

He said he had joined the TransLooking back on the horrible years you’ve spent in jail, Africa Movement, Mandela, lesser men would’ve given up the fight, led by Randolf South Africa and its racialist regime have not relented, Robinson, in calling In order to keep you out of sight, for an economic Mandela, there ain’t any men around like you today, embargo against May you regain your freedom soon I pray.

South Africa, and All Black Africans unite and fight to win this apartheid battle, had participated in Fight and win this anti apartheid struggle, the group’s myriad Free Mandela on solidarity we must not fail, protests at the UN Don’t let him rot away in jail, against South Whoever in power, review and reverse your wicked laws Africa’s system of I appeal to you today. racial separateness, or Apartheid.

Will always be remembered.

Nelson Mandela!

22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute to Nelson Mandela The Most Rev’d Dr. The Hon. John Holder, CBE, LLD Bishop of Barbados, Archbishop of the West Indies There are some points in

human history when the world comes face to face with the greatest of human possibilities. It pauses and it discovers that in spite of all the atrocities of history, in spite of the negatives in human relationships, there

is still in each of us a potential for good that can be released, developed and put to work to make the world a better place.

Two of the most significant on these moments are connected to

Nelson Mandela. Who can forget February 11, 1990 when the whole world paused to watch him walk to freedom after 27 years in prison? We all dreamt then of a world in which his country was free of the blight of Apartheid, and all South Africans could be free and have access to the resources of their country.

We held high the possibility that the world, motivated by his release, could go into high gear to eradicate the traces of prejudice, racism and bigotry that cripple human development.

The human possibilities that he came to embody were strengthened when he refused to preach hatred and generate bitterness against those who had snatched away so much of his life.

His rise to be president of his country after its first democratic election, bestowed upon him a universal iconic status that cemented all the possibilities of humanity that he came to embody.

We realized that things that were once thought to be impossible can happen.

When the world was drawn into the second significant moment, his death, we paused once more to reflect on the human possibilities that are associated with his life. The moment was naturally greeted with a touch of sadness, but the sadness sent us to reflect on his life that embodied the greatest of human possibilities in a manner that few lives have.

We reflect and we discover that it is possible not to allow experiences of hatred and anger and

prejudice of the worse type to imprison us in a world of revenge and destruction. There are other possibilities.

There is the possibility of guiding both the perpetrators and the victims to a new and fresh path of freedom. This was surely Mr. Mandela’s call.

It was his greatest gift to his country and to the world.

He also led us to see that there is a possibility that those whose conscience had grown numb to the violence they inflicted upon their fellow human beings could be sensitized and be awakened from their slumber.

His determination to steer his country along a path free of any call for revenge helped the awakening process. He realized the walk to freedom was still a long arduous struggle for justice for all, and there was no quick fix.

Possibilities were not reduced to easy readymade solutions to his country’s complex problems.

We reflect on his life touched by the sadness of his death and we see other human possibilities. We see that it is possible not to compromise on justice no matter how much pressure is brought to bear upon us to do the very opposite.

The twenty-seven years spent in prison could have been a ready excuse to compromise on his demands for justice for all South Africans. But he did not follow this easier path.

He maintained his call for justice.

We see as well reflected in his life the possibility of being ever conscious of one’s moral responsibility.

As a leader of his people, even from behind prison bars, his was a moral duty to ensure that the struggle for freedom and justice did not die. He lived up to this responsibility and displayed to the world yet another important positive element of humanity.

But above all else, Mr. Mandela taught the world about the possibilities of hope at our darkest moments. To most persons living in the era before his release, it seemed as if the Apartheid regime of South Africa would last forever.

The powers of the world were slow in bringing the regime to an end.

Mr. Mandela embodied the hope. The ‘Free Nelson Mandela’ movement was the constant reminder that there was a group of God’s children in his world that were being denied their basic divine right, the right of freedom.

The conscience of the world was being constantly directed to the bundle of moral contradictions that was South Africa, and was urged not to slacken on effort to set free God’s children who were victims of these contradictions.

We experienced hope in a special way on that eventful morning of February 11, 1990. We thank God then, and also now, for the human possibilities that that can burst into action ever so often to make this world better.

We thank God for the life and work of Nelson Mandela. We are gracious for those sparks of human possibilities that he held up to the world and generated hope. Our moral responsibility is to ensure that these sparks are never extinguished.

May he rest in peace.

Vincy community leaders pay tribute to Nelson Mandela discrimination wherever we see their dark manifestations.

Ashe said the example of Mandela's life “It means, standing up against the and actions, “demonstrates the indignity and deprivation that millions difference one person can make in the of our fellow human beings still suffer face of adversity, oppression and around the world,” he continued. prejudice, while maintaining a Mandela's ground-breaking legacy disposition of humility, humor and and inspirational spirit were also hailed modesty that is so rare amongst people

by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, of his stature.” calling him a “giant for justice.”

In his remarks, UN Deputy SecretaryThe UN chief said Mandela “showed General Jan Eliasson hailed Mandela's what is possible for our world and within courage, farsightedness, political skills each one of us — if we believe, dream and and kindness. work together for justice and humanity.”

“In a world too often riven and Recalling his memories of meeting divided by vicious cycles of violence and Mandela, the Secretary-General said he revenge, perhaps the most impressive of had been deeply touched and inspired.

President Mandela's gifts was his power “When I praised him for his lifelong of forgiveness, his ability to overcome contribution to end Apartheid, he said, bitterness and hatred,” he said.

‘It is not only me but hundreds and “We remember Nelson Mandela today. hundreds of known and unknown people But we should carry his spirit with us that contributed,’” Ban Ki-Moon said. every day,” Eliasson added. “It means, “That has stuck with me ever since.” speaking out against prejudice and Continued from Page 21.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 23.

Education

Sandy Bay Gov’t School retains Festus Toney Award Stories by KENVILLE HORNE THE SANDY BAY Government School copped the Most Outstanding Original Choral and the Most Outstanding Choir (Test Piece) to retain the Festus Toney Award for Musical Excellence in the Grand Finale of the Christmas Music Festival 2013.

The School from the Windward side

L-R: Most Outstanding Instrumentalist Arike Browne accepted his award from Chief Education Officer Lou-Ann Gilchrist.

of mainland St. Vincent was outstanding in their presentation, and impressed the audience at the Peace Memorial Hall where the Christmas Music Festival dubbed “Welcome the Christ —Child” took place last Wednesday. For their Original Carol, the Sandy Bay Government performed a piece entitled “He’s the reason for the Season.” This was well received by the audience, who responded with loud applause. When they finished their Test Piece: “Welcome the ChristChild,’ there was little doubt among the audience that they had retained the title.

Arike Browne from the Clare Valley Primary School took the prize for Most Outstanding Instrumentalist, while his school took the award for Most Outstanding Choral Speech/Drama.

The Lowmans Leeward Anglican School was adjudged the Most Outstanding Dance.

Chief Education Officer Lou-Ann Gilchrist congratulated the schools that took part. She described the Christmas Music Festival as a form of Thanksgiving and praise in celebration of the birth of Christ.

“The birth of Christ our Saviour must not be taken lightly, and it is fitting that at the end of the first term, that this festival take place”, said Gilchrist. She encouraged the students to look at the music industry as a viable means of survival.

Kingstown Anglican School teachers protest TEACHERS at the Kingstown Anglican School are fed up with the frequency with which the institution has been broken into. They have taken to the streets to vent their anger. The Kingstown Annex, is where the Kingstown Anglican School has been located in recent times.

For the past year, the Kingstown Annex has been experiencing breakings, and the illegal removal of items that belong to the Kingstown Anglican School.

The most recent occurrence took place between Thursday December 5 and Friday 6.

“I think that something has to be done to assist the children and the teachers. Right now the morale is low” said Deborah Charles, Steward of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Union of Teachers.

Charles told THE VINCENTIAN that on a daily basis, the Kingstown Anglican School has been broken into. “Desks are being broken into, teaching material is taken, and our computer was stolen a few weeks ago,” Charles said. She explained that the computer which was stolen contained substantial information. “That computer is a computer that has all the data for the school. I have been here 13 years and that computer was here before that,” Charles disclosed.

“If you steal that, you are practically saying, close down the school, because we have nothing to give to anybody who would want a transcript that we have

Students form the Sandy Bay Government School proudly display the Festus Toney Trophy. unique. However he observed that the “Music should not be something that you do after school. Unfortunately festival experienced a slight dip in participation this year, from an this is how it has turned out. But we are trying to restructure the average 80% to an average of 75%.

“Based on feedback from teachers curriculum in such a way that music will be on the time table,” the Chief and principals, the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) for Grade 5 Education Officer outlined. and 6 affected their preparation Veteran Musician and head of the somewhat,” Venner disclosed.

Music Department in the Ministry of “While it is good that teachers want Education, Joffre Venner said the to ensure that their students are well musical festival started in the Marriaqua Zone Wednesday November prepared, the opportunity to perform 13 and travelled throughout SVG until at the Music Festival should not be taking away from the students, since Wednesday November 27 when the preliminaries were completed. Venner Performing Arts help to reward noted that in most cases, the quality of students and boost their self-esteem in unimaginable ways,” he added. talent throughout the festival greatly improved.

The Christmas Music Festival is an annual event organized by the Music “We are seeing fruits of the music workshop and training programs,” said Department in the Ministry of Venner. He applauded the schools for Education. their efforts in providing something

Teachers stage a picketing protest outside of the Kingstown Anglican School Annex. had documented there,” Charles lamented.

Monday December 2, the school was broken into and many of the school’s items went missing, including monies. “Today (last Friday) we are not sure what was stolen because desk, cupboards, filing cabinets, everything was broken into” Charles told THE VINCENTIAN. The entrance for the burglar/burglars was through some louvers at the back of the building, and Charles explained that someone is responsible for watching the school, but the teachers are unaware of the person’s identity since that person starts working at 6pm, after the school is closed.

The experienced teacher said the staff at the school tried unsuccessfully to get burglar bars, since it has proven to be very expensive. “We have certain help from our community personnel, we have gotten a few things but the work is unable to start due to a lack of finance”.

According to Charles, there is a need for a new school building. “This building belonged to the

vagrants for a number of years, and I believe right now we are sitting in the bedroom of the vagrants, and they want to reclaim it, so give us a new school,” Charles suggested.

She is appealing to the authorities to “either give us a school building that we can call our own or give us some added security to enhance education.”

“The education revolution would not be successful if students of the Kingstown Anglican School and teachers are not happy, because the work would not go on as they should,” she added.

If the breaking continues, Charles stated the teachers might be forced to take different protest actions, though she did not mention what those actions might be.

The Kingstown Annex became the temporary home for the staff and students of Kingstown Anglican School, following a fire last year that damaged the School building located opposite the Annex. The police are investigating the situation but no one has been arrested.

V Eye Focus holds Health Fair 24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

VINCENTIANS AND OTHER PERSONS here were given the opportunity to make better choices with their health, during a Health Fair Thursday November 29.

Eye Focus, L-R: Staff Nurse Hartie Johnson, in partnerL-R: Eye Focus Office Manager Neeka Anderson, Office Manager at Eye Focus Marilyn Alvis, Gracelyn Garrick, Marie Richards and ship with Neeka Anderson, and Coreas and Digicel Country Manager Sean Latty.

Digicel and Hazells representative Noel Coreas and Browne.

Hazells, that Coreas and Hazells healthy life embarked on a health style, healthy offered.

Staff Nurse at the campaign on the effects living , which is part of Office Manager at Milton Cato Memorial of Hypertension and Eye Focus, Neeka the development of any Hospital, Hartie Johnson Diabetes. Persons visited Anderson stated: “We nation.” checked persons’ blood the Hinds Building in Anderson noted that see it as our social pressure and provided Paul’s Avenue to have responsibility to many persons were valuable information on their blood pressure empower persons with unaware that diabetes Hypertension and tested. They also listened the information so that can affect the eyes. She Diabetes. Johnson told to expert advice on they can help expressed happiness with THE VINCENTIAN that health issues, and themselves, and we can the partners who made many persons she tested, sampled health products work on promoting the health fair possible. displayed high blood pressure. She believes this is as a result of persons hustling in Kingstown, and also because others are not taking their medication.

The Staff Nurse disclosed that Hypertension can affect the eyes, the heart and the kidney.

She is appealing to persons to practise healthy life style, stress management, and to check up regularly.

Noel Browne, a representative from Coreas and Hazells, said his company decided to form partnership with other companies because the event was a worthwhile venture that would benefit persons suffering from Hypertension and Diabetes.

According to Browne, when persons are testing their blood, they don’t eat a full meal, and in this regard, they can utilize some of the healthy products that his company offers, such as Twinings Tea bags and wheat Biscuits.

According to Browne “it is a good partnership, and Coreas look forward to working with the companies again.”

Three persons had chances of having total eye exams, including glasses if required.

Posing for photos with Santa.

Family Sundays at LIME TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROVIDER LIME is keeping the family tradition in Christmas, with a series of activities on the promenade outside its Kingstown store on Sundays.

Apart from shopping for the best in landline, broadband and mobile products and services, LIME customers can also experience the joy of the season.

Every Sunday, children can meet and have their photos taken with Santa Claus, and be treated with goodies on the inside.

On the outside, the kids can get involved in a ring toss competition, while parents can be entertained or engage in live karaoke, where they can sing with the stars.

LIME Soca Dans, face painting and ham tasting will be featured on the promenade this Sunday.

Patrons can expect to get the best deals on handset, as well as passes to LIME sponsored events like Soca Dans Kiddies Christmas.

First 25 winners in LIME Christmas promotion THE FIRST BATCH of lucky LIME customers to be rewarded in the 2013 Share the Cheer Christmas campaign have been rewarded.

Ten loyal customers received Samsung Galaxy Tablets, while 15 others were given hams, for topping up 15 dollars or more or paying their LIME bills in full and on time.

The individuals who received their prizes last Friday, expressed that this was the first time most of them were rewarded for their loyalty.

A total of 60 Samsung Galaxy Tablets, 75 hams and other surprises are up for grabs during the promotion, which ends December 31, 2013.

Winners in the LIME Christmas Promotion receiving their tablets and ham vouchers.

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

Business

Digicel gives away EC$6,000

by Kenville Horne KIM MCDOWALL, Lucia Browne and Jason Parsons are the three persons to have recently received EC$2000 each from telecommunication company Digicel.

They are winners in Digicel’s Christmas promotion dubbed “Brighten Someone’s Christmas” which gives EC$2000 to a Digicel customer for completing a task.

The three collected their cash from Digicel’s Marketing Executive Justin John on Tuesday at Digicel’s corporate offices located in the Lewis Building on James Street.

In order to win, Digicel Customers adding EC$15 or more to their cellular phones are entered in a random draw for EC$2000 , also by becoming part of the Digicel family (when purchasing a handset or SIM card), paying your postpaid bill by December 20, activating a data plan or activating the international bundle plan.

“Brighten Someone’s Christmas” rewards one customer every day.

L-R: A Digicel Representative with winner Jason Parsons.

L-R: Digicel Marketing Manager Juno DeRoche poses with winner Lucia Browne.

L-R: Winner Kim McDowall with Digicel Marketing Executive Justin John.

Participants and facilitators of the recently concluded Eastern Caribbean Institute of Banking and the University of the West Indies Entrepreneurship Course Workshop.

Be innovative Stewart advises GLENFORD STEWART, Managing Director of Stewart Engineering Ltd. is encouraging the graduates of an Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) organised Entrepreneurship Course to use innovative approaches to attract funding for the start-up or expansion of their businesses. In delivering the feature address at the graduation ceremony for the participants, Stewart, an engineer by profession, and former Minister of Works here, indicated that being an entrepreneur had its challenges, but also rewards, including that of financial independence. His optimism regarding entrepreneurship mirrored the position expressed in an earlier address at the ceremony

by Errol Allen, Chairman, Eastern Caribbean Institute of Banking (ECIB).

Allen made reference to studies which indicate that the international business climate favoured entrepreneurs, especially those with

small businesses. He believes that the growth of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is playing a significant role in the recent successes of small businesses.

Thirty-eight persons in St Vincent and the Grenadines graduated from the twenty-week Entrepreneurship Course which ended November 30.

The course, Part II of

the Savings and Investment course designed by the ECCB, has been developed as a guide for persons interested in understanding the fundamentals of operating a successful small business. “One of the objectives is to inspire more persons to consider entrepreneurship as a possible goal, and promote best business

practices among small business owners,” highlighted Elritha Dick, ECCB Resident Representative to St Vincent and the Grenadines.

To date, almost 400 Vincentians have participated in Part I and Part II of the ECCB organised Savings and Investment courses which have attracted over 3,000 participants in the ECCU countries.

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20) Put your efforts into making constructive improvements to your environment and to your state of mind. Don't gossip.

Pleasure trips will be a form of healing for your emotional state of mind. Your efforts won't go unnoticed; however, someone you work with may get jealous.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) Gambling will be a waste of time and money. Try to be precise in your communications. Pay attention to small but important details. You are best not to discuss your personal life with others.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) You will find yourself tied to the phone.

You can come into money that you don't necessarily work for. Secret affairs could cause upset. Help with your aspirations is likely, and profits could follow.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Get out and get active. Your leadership ability will enhance your reputation.

Take care of your personal needs. You can't make things better if you don't know what to fix.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Delve into worthwhile causes that will show results if you put in the effort.

Tempers will mount if you're too pushy at work or at home. Don't take sides if you wish to remain on good terms with both parties. You may have ignored or neglected your mate lately.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Unexpected events may be upsetting.

Keep important information to yourself.

Romance can develop; however, it will most probably be short-lived. Start sending out those resumes.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don't expect anyone else to pay your bills for you. Your best efforts will come through hard work. Art investment will pay big dividends in the long term. Try

to avoid being extravagant this week.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) There are ways of making extra cash if you put your mind to it. Listen to a good friend who is truly looking out for your best interests. You will also encounter individuals who can help you further your goals. Be sure to question any detail that you feel could leave you in a precarious position at a later date.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't hesitate to voice your opinions at a group meeting; however, keep your thoughts to yourself at home. Take on positions that offer on the job training or pay for courses related to the business.

A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy.

Be sure not to reveal private information to the wrong individuals.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will not be pleased with family members who try to put demands on you when you just don't have the time. Take a break; you can finally mend any disputes on the home front. You can bet that situations will get out of hand if you allow others to interfere. Advancement can be yours if you put your efforts into work related matters.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Too much work and no play will not only result in fatigue and frustration but also loneliness, too. Do not let your mate annoy you; patience will be the key.

Don't forget to let your mate know how much you care. Tempers may flare if you haven't been completely honest about your intentions or your whereabouts.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You may not be as well received in group endeavors if you try to force your will on others. You may be sensitive concerning friends and their situations. Don't try to hide your true feelings from your mate.

Stubborn about making changes around your home.

ACROSS 1.Burnt residue 4. Riding crop 8. Method 12. Sound of delight 14. Ventilated 16. Tel __ 17. Lion’s warning 18. Sugarcoat 19. “Ransom” actress with 28 Down 20. “Star Wars” creature 21. Overhead railways 22. Book parts 24. Chipper 26. French holy women (abbr.)

27. Sequoias, e.g.

29. Jean Lafitte, for one 32. Tennis area 33. Express gratitude 35. Groovy, ‘90sstyle 37. Two make a qt.

38. Milk’s category 39. “…man __ mouse?”

(2 wds.)

40. Dweller (abbr.)

41. Alternatives to suspenders 42. Shade of green 44. “Drums Along the __” 46. Corridors

47. MacDonald’s partner 48. Fixed routine 49. Less bright 52. Discoverer’s cry 53. Enjoy taffy 57. The __ of March 58. Title holder 60. “It Had __ You” (2 wds.)

61. Jai __ 62. Breathes rapidly 63. Hoagies’ kin 64. A Redgrave 65. Grace __ 66. Q followers 25. Domesticated animal 26. Shadowboxes 1.Crooked 27. Indian __ 2. Scare away pole 3. Hammer part 28. See 19 4. Racetrack Across transactions 30. Gnome’s kin 5. Mountainous 31. British 6. Gershwin et al. noblemen 7. Candy in a 32. Lifesaving container skill 8. Tomei of “The (abbr.)

Wrestler” 33. Chatty 9. Bakery hot 34. Successful spot song 10. Eat well 36. Sunrise to 11. Pre-holiday sunset nights 38. Morning 13. Pink part of a moisture pencil 41. Requested to 15. Kismet come 23. Incentive 42. Kit __ Club DOWN

(“Cabaret”) 43. Picks a politician 45. Confines (2 wds.)

46. Rasping 48. Scarlett’s suitor 49. Station indicator

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

50. In a lazy manner 51. Disagreeable 52. __ Domini 54. 60 minutes 55. Recedes 56. Bridge seat 59. Lacking rosy cheeks

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 27.

Advice

My daughters blame me! My husband else, and my daughters blame me for it every day.

MY TWO DAUGHTERS still Things have gotten to the blame me for their father’s point where they hardly speak to me, and I know death. We had an argument over a year ago, we cannot live like this any longer. They are and their father who was my common- law husband growing up fast and need at the time, walked out of to come to grips with what the house in vexation and happened and not to continue to blame me. never came back. A few Right now, they are 14 and hours after leaving the house, he took ill and later 16 years old. I do feel guilty about the entire died. He never got any chance to say goodbye to thing, and in a way take some blame for what his children or anyone

controls me!

Dear George,

Dear George,

happened. If we had not argued that day, he would have never left the house in that fashion and stressed himself out as a result. How do I get my daughters to stop blaming me for their father’s

death?

Pieces Dear Pieces, It is sad that things happened the way they did, and it is very important that you and your daughters get some professional help in order to sift through the different levels of emotions that presently exist. It would be presumptuous to say that the argument you had with their father was the direct cause of his death, and this need to be discussed. Your daughters need to get an opportunity to talk about the events that led up to the death of their father, and to put things in their proper perspective. The fact that they never got to say goodbye to him could be the most troubling for them, and this too needs to be addressed. Reassure your daughters that you did love their father, and you sincerely regret his passing and especially the events that preceded this unfortunate occurrence. This may take some time; but you and your daughters could again resume a healthy relationship after the necessary counselling is done.

George

MY HUSBAND is a control freak. He does not want me to leave the house without his knowledge and permission. If I want to go into Kingstown, I have to tell him about a day or two in advance and ask for his permission. I cannot invite anyone to my house without his permission. I have to ask him for permission to change my hair style, buy a new dress, make an overseas call, and the list goes on. On the other hand, I am not allowed to say “NO” to him for anything, including what happens in the bedroom. I feel like a prisoner in my own home, and I am not happy. I have told him that I am not happy, and he said if I don’t like the way things are, then I should leave. We have been married for just over a year, and he was not like this before we got married. The strange thing is, everyone around him thinks he is a cool guy, and he smiles a lot when he is around them and pretends to be the perfect husband. He refuses to go for any counselling, and says that is just one sure way of inviting strangers into his personal life and business. He already said there is no way he would be changing the way he is now, and he is the head of the house and I can either accept it or leave. What am I to do? I love my husband, but hate the way he is.

Trapped bride.

Dear Trapped Bride, Your husband has declared his position which clearly states NO COUNSELLING and NO CHANGING of his present position of a control freak. No one should be made to live this way, and certainly not you. Let your husband know that failure to shift his position from one of control and dictatorship, to one of inclusiveness and understanding can and will result in him having to live the rest of his life without you as a partner. You are, or should be, an equal partner in the marriage, and you should accept nothing short of that. Let him know that, while you are willing to accept him as head of the marriage, that does not mean that you are his footstool.

George

28. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 29.

News

Bargain TV launched Continued from Page 14. hit. She is appealing to persons to give it a try.

A verification “Not only are you message will be sent to getting deals that you viewers who call or text, can’t get at the store, indicating whether or but it’s exciting. You get not they have been to call, you get to vote, selected. Successful you get to text” said persons have three days Williams. Persons can to purchase their item look forward to great at the discounted prize. deals from LIME, According to Sealey, the according to Williams. response from the public Merlicia Bobb, a and businesses has been representative from great, and she thanked Browne’s Hardware, the partners. said her company was Technical producer of pleased to be part of Bargain TV Steve Bargain TV. She is Wallace expressed appealing to persons to excitement about the take advantage of the programme. He said it opportunity. Auldine was the first time such a Browne of Barnet Fair program has been done Hair Fashion expressed here. similar sentiments.

Already on board in Kevin Robinson of this initiative are heavy Amgine Entertainment, LIME, Browne’s congratulated Sealey Hardware, Barnet Fair and Wallace for Hair Fashion, Amgine launching the program.

Entertainment, and He said it is an IKTV. opportunity for Marketing and businesses to promote Corporate their products and Communication lead at customers to get value LIME, Nikala Williams for their money. During said she experienced the launching, there was Bargain TV while in a demonstration of what New York. She believes Bargain TV would be it will turn into a great like.

30. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 31.

SVG beat Grenada in nail-biting T20 final possibility of play even getting on the way.” Bascombe ST. VINCENT AND said the THE Grenadines’ umpires did not chances of adding even take the the Windward toss.

Islands two-day Last year, cricket title to their SVG placed T20 crown suffered a third in the dent after the two-day opening day of their segment of the first round encounter competition with Dominica was after rain badly affected by a affected some of soggy outfield in their fixtures.

Grenada.

The Grenada’s Andre According to Vincentians did Fletcher-highest reports reaching not have such a runscorer THE problem in VINCENTIAN, heavy retaining the T20 title after overnight and early morning recording a nail-biting fourrain left the conditions run victory over host Grenada hopelessly wet. in the final last Sunday.

SVG opener, Miles SCORES: SVG 175-6, Bascombe who enjoyed a Grenada 171-6. successful T20 tournament, It took tight bowling in the said that “the pitch was closing overs for the soaked and there was no Vincentians to pull off the Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

victory, which seemed out of reach after the homesters had racked up an opening partnership of 121 between Andre Fletcher (70) and Lyndon Lawrence (71) in 13 overs.

The partnership was broken when Fletcher was bowled by debutant left-arm spinner, Asif Hooper. He struck three fours and seven sixes and his runs came off 41 balls.

Lawrence struck six fours and three sixes from 49 balls.

On a platform of 129 for 2 in the 15th over the host put themselves in victory highway by scoring another 36 runs off the next 24 balls to be 165-5 at the end of the 19th over.

But with the Grenadians seemingly in the driver’s seat West Indies A team pacer Delorn Johnson had other ideas. He removed Ronald Etienne (5) while conceding seven runs, to hand his team what appeared an unlikely victory moments before.

Mayers sends out sos

their commitment to athletes.

“They have not contacted me…..I am the defending champion and should be given the chance to defend my title”, the 34-year-old athlete said.

Asked if she will have enough time to prepare and make the standard in the few months left to prepare, Mayers answered in the affirmative, saying that all she needed was the Boxer Frankie Lucasfinancial support.

SVG’s first “I am training all the Commonwealth Gold Natasha Mayers time, so it’s not that I am medallist Commonwealth 100m not working out……my champion for support to compete in problem is that I need to get the help that is the upcoming “Hello …Good night…. necessary to reach the Commonwealth Games this is Natasha Mayers level to compete and do in Glasgow, Scotland in calling…….I want to say well,” she stated.

August 2014. something on your “I want to emphasise On Sunday, she laid programme…..if you will that I need help to do so, out her concerns about allow”. because, if I don’t make the how she is being the standard, I can’t treated by the ruling THIS WAS THE START represent the country. body for the sport here of a conversation on a And I won’t be able to Team Athletics SVG sports call-in programme make the standard headed by President on local radio station unless I get some Keith Joseph.

NICE Radio last Sunday assistance. I need Mayers accused the night as SVG’s financial assistance; organisation of failing to California-based female that’s what it takes,” she maintain any contact sprinter, Natasha said. with her, and questioned Mayers sent out her SOS “The last time when I

Hooper, with 3-36 from his four overs, was SVG’s best bowler, while Johnson finished with 1-34 and with his tournament haul of six wickets was named the top bowler.

Earlier SVG who won the toss and took first knock, found themselves in early trouble after losing their top run getters in Bascombe and Romel Currency who had both notched up two half centuries in the previous matches.

It was left to Donwell Hector (51) who made his first score of note, along with captain, Lyndon James (39) and Sunil Ambris (31) to see their team to what turned out to be a match-winning total.

They scored 61 runs off the last four overs after being 1143 in the 16 over.

Manager Elvis Browne told THE VINCENTIAN that the team played well as an allround unit, even though there were blunders mainly in

won the Commonwealth Games, I was able to fund preparations … because I had worked for two years as a school teacher……but it is really tough this time around,” she pleaded.

She said she was given some assistance in the form of one thousand dollars (no information what currency) for a period of eight months in the lead up to the Games back then.

First Vice-president and PRO of TASVG Leroy Llewellyn had promised to return a call when contacted to give the organisation’s side of the story, but subsequent attempts to reach him failed.

Mayers is the reigning 100 metres champion after winning the title in 2010 following the disqualifications of both the winner and second place finisher in the race back then for a false start and a positive drug test.

The official results showed Sally Pearson (11.28), repeating her personal best

SVG pacer Delorn Johnsonleading bowler the field, but the players were focussed enough to overcome them. He expressed satisfaction that the main batters had gotten among the runs, but felt the bowling at some point fell away.

Fletcher, who struck the tournament’s only century was the top run getter, with Bascombe and Currency following in that order in the table.

In the third place play-off Dominica beat St. Lucia by 5 wickets with 5 balls to spare (St. Lucia 117 for 9, Dominica 120 for 5 in 19.1 overs).

George Manners (baldhead) Vincentian weightlifter who won medals for the UK performance, followed by Osayemi Oludamola (11.32) of Nigeria and Natasha Mayers (11.37) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Pearson was later disqualified for a false start following a protest, resulting in Mayers who had placed third in the event being handed the silver medal with Oludamola was awarded the gold. However Two days later, the Commonwealth Games Federation announced that Oludamola tested positive for a banned stimulant, methylhexaneamine.

Mayers was then

handed the gold medal to become the second athlete to win a gold medal, representing SVG at the Commonwealth Games.

UK-based boxer Frankie Lucas did so in 1974 in New Zealand, after being ignored by the UK authorities and his plea being answered by then Premier James Mitchell.

Another athlete George Manners, who hailed from the “Long Wall” area, won a number of medals in Weightlifting while representing England at the Commonwealth Games.

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32. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Rose Hall lights up process which will at some point see more upgraded facilities in the North Leeward community,” James said.

He added that the event was an important starting point for some of the programmes that he expects to unfold in the North Leeward community under what he considers the “Youthon-the-Block Project.”

Selwyn Patterson from Home team Jam Down claims their 1st prize. the Rose Hall Cultural and Development winners, 1-nil over beer. and the Organization said the Richmond Vale Chateaubelair Combined, The event was event will be a fixture on Academy, who claimed second spearheaded by Carlos the sports calendar in Organiser of the Flood-light Football tournament and ULP James, along with the converged on the place. Rose Bank All North Leeward. “We potential candidate for North Leeward , Carlos James right Rose Hall Stars clinched the third Rose Hall Cultural and want to make this an in conversation with North Leeward resident Erasto playing field to spot. Jam Down was Development annual event. It was a Robertson. awarded $200 and two Organization. compete. The fantastic opportunity to spectators’ cases of beer.

“I am pleased with the bring all the

By KENVILLE HORNE community saw the joyousness provided some Chateaubelair Combined positive response from communities together staging of the Hairoun walked away with $ 100 persons from the various and we are expressing heat to the rather cool THE COMMUNITY OF Rose Beer Carlos James 8 a temperature that is and two cases of beer, communities who our thanks to all the Hall created history in side flood light foot ball and third place Rose supported this initiative. persons who made this North Leeward, as the first competition. With lights typical of the village.

After the competition Bank All Stars were What we are seeing here event possible,” said Village in the constituency projecting from a is the first stage of a awarded two cases of Patterson. to hold a flood-light specially designed truck, concluded, home team Rose Hall football competition. teams from Troumaca, Jam On Saturday 30th Rose Bank, November the Chateaubelair, Rose Hall Down emerged

Simple Boys win TBPO T/20 Championship GAIRY CONSTRUCTION Simple Boys defeated defending champion CGM Novice by one wicket in an exciting final to capture the National Lottery Authorities TBPO 2020 Softball cricket title at the Dauphnie playing field last Sunday.

CGM Novice made 169 for 8 in 17.5 overs reduced due to rain. Renrick Williams 76 (hitting 12 sixes) led the batting with support from Hyron Shallow and Elton Williams 24 each.

Eldon Morris 3 for 24 was the best bowler for Simple Boys.

Gairy Construction Simple Boys, without the services of Desron Maloney and Casmond Walters on national

Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club

THE PRESIDENT OF THE Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club Preston Skerrit wishes to thank the Government Printer (Ag.) Phillip Charles for his assistance in ensuring the revival of the Club; Cheryl Rodriquez for having the Miss duties in the Bushay 22. Kamal SVG Contestants 2013 on tour WINLOTT 2020 king 4 for 20 was tournament in the destroyer of the at the Government Printery; Dennis Murray, John Horne, Grenada reached innings. In Reply Log Enterprises Ltd and Allan 172 in 17 overs.

EZ Woods Toppers Simple Boys eased to 72 for 7 in Smith Bakery for their needed 4 runs from 13 overs. Vennardo contribution towards our In the final ball Primus top scored House Uno Competition achieved their with 24. Bowling for played at Government target with a six Gomea Bombers Printery. Also to all the from Travis Osborne Franklyn persons who participated in Cumberbatch who took 3 for 11. our moonlight walk and to my finished 19. Elric Rodrick John executive team for their hard Morris led the run 257, received the work and dedication. chase with 49 which award for scoring included five sixes, the most runs. Most Stein Joseph 33 and wickets went to Xavique Alexander Vennardo Primus 21. Were also 15 for 134 runs and among the runs.

Travis OWIA YOUNG STRIKERS Desron Spring was Cumberbatch 15 for are the new champions of the CGM Novice’s best 86 runs. Travis Greggs 20/20 Softball Cricket bowler with figures Cumberbatch competition. They beat C.G.M of 3 for 31. received trophy for Novice by four wickets in the Earlier, EZ best bowling final last weekend at the Woods Toppers took average. He also the third spot after captured the award Greggs Playing Field, to bring the curtains down on the 2013 beating Gomea for Player of the tournament.

Bombers by three final after a CGM Novice totaled 130 for wickets in the third performance of place play off. three overs two 8 from 20 overs, led by Gomea Bombers runs, 19 not out and Renrick Williams who hit 62. made 71 all out in two brilliant Rolando Wright with 3 for 16, 17.2 overs. Barry catches. was Owia Young Strikers best Cunningham hit 23 bowler, with support from and Bernard I.B.A.ALLEN Rondel Monroe 3 for 24.

I will also extend thanks to St. Vincent Brewery for the sponsorship of the recently concluded Hairoun/Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club/Firms Domino Competition. I must congratulate the Central Water &Sewerage Authority (CWSA) for winning this competition, and express gratitude towards the other teams that participated, and look forward for your support towards next year’s competition.

To all the cricket lovers, on the 15th February, 2014, the Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club will be hosting a Firms 20/20 Softball

President of the Government Printery Sports and Cultural Club Preston Skerrit is pleased with the outcome of the event.

Cricket Tournament at Dauphine Playing Field.

Registration forms are available at the Government Printery. We look forward to your support, and wish you all a joyous Christmas and a blessed New Year.

Owia Young Strikers win Greggs T/20 title Owia Young Strikers made light work of the target, reaching 135 for 6 from 19 overs. Osnel Cato led with 41, supported by Rolando Wright hit 34 and Recarvo Williams 28. Hyron Shallow grabbed 3 for 27 to be CGM Novice’s best bowler.

Rolando Wright was the Man of the Final.

Renrick Williams was named MVP of the tournament. He scored the most runs 265 and hit the most sixes 37 for CGM Novice.

Clinton Woods of Sea Operation Nah Fren Dem-1 took the most wickets 18. The Most Catches award went to Zaniel Baptiste with seven for Owia Young Strikers. Seon Phillips took the award for the Best Wicket keeper with four catches and four stumpings.

Dr. Thomas Injectors walked away with the Most Disciplined Team award, while Fully Loaded Ballers was the Best Dressed Team.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 33.

Sports

Mandela hangs up his gloves THE FOCUS of the world is on Nelson Mandela.

The attention will continue for a long time. No one can overlook his impact.

A boxing aficionado, Madiba perhaps owed his long life to his affinity to sports. He kept fit for his eventual freedom by his mental and physical application.

He never wavered, nor ceased his commitment to the liberty of not just, his fellow South Africans, but to those seeking freedom the world over.

Mandela’s cause was just and even though the weight of the so-called advanced world made it appear that his vision was futile, he persisted.

West Indian sport personalities, cultural activists and political radicals kept up the call for his freedom, for Mandela was a symbol of oppressed people in South Africa and throughout the world.

Those Caribbean Sport personalities including Vivian Richards made their abhorrence to the apartheid regime known. And they were respected and revered for the position of having nothing to do with the racist regime.

Those lured by blood money came in for ridicule from their Caribbean counterparts. Some who broke ranks and undertook the trip are indeed still reeling from the effects of their betrayal, and continue to be ostracised.

Ask Lawrence Rowe, and he will tell you how he has become a forgotten element in his home country. No one feels any sympathy for him, or for any of the rebels who took the trip to South Africa to play cricket under the unequal administration.

When Mandela’s release came, he embarked upon a path of reconciliation. Once the battle had been won, Mandela ensured that the damage wrought by the period of South Africa’s alienation was corrected speedily.

Mandela’s role as South Africa’s most prominent citizen was exemplified by his endorsement of the South African Rugby team, even though that unit represented the remnants of the apartheid system.

But Mandela was building himself as an embodiment of the African spirit. It might have been a hard pill for the majority of African population to accept.

He was pivotal in South Africa being accorded the 2010 World Cup. He was prominent during that tournamen,t and even though South Africa did not advance to any appreciable degree, the nation endeared itself to the world as a credible host.

Vincentians and black people the world over, and indeed those of other races keen on the maintenance of equality, were happy to see a South African nation with a the football team featuring a genuinely national outfit.

It has taken some time for the cricket squad to balance its racial composition.

Vincentians welcomed the South African Cricket squad in 2001. Local fans singled out Makhaya Ntini for special treatment, and he was given hero status.

Mandela commanded respect from sport personalities the world over. Everyone paid tribute for his sacrifice.

Any visitor to South Africa after that country emerged from the sporting wilderness, must have been intrigued by Mandela’s presence. Sporting personalities the world over, cherish their moment with Mandela whether they met him at home or abroad.

Mandela has become a symbol of peace. When a West Indian Cricket squad encountered problems with the West Indies Cricket Board, and a tour to South Africa was in doubt, there was a feeling that Mandela was somehow being despised.

A proper resolution had to be arrived at. Even if it meant making a compromise, it would never have been as profound as those that Mandela had demonstrated over his years in jail or since his release.

Mandela was the epitome of natural reason.

Any attempt to embarrass him or the newly acclaimed status of his homeland was not acceptable.

Things have not ironed in South Africa, and indeed they will not be smooth for a long time. His passing will usher in another period, of which no one is certain.

What is true, however, is that Mandela remains an icon for sports men and women and others in South Africa, the Caribbean and the world at large.

34. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013. 35.

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FROM DEATH ROW TO FREEDOM

by HAYDN HUGGINS

“JUDGES SENTENCE according to the guidelines and their conscience.”

The comment came from Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Williams when contacted by THE VINCENTIAN following the sentencing of Emishel ‘Leonard’ Lyonard OGarro 45, and Ken ‘Allan’ Charles 33, both of Barrouallie, for the murder of accountant Ronald Lewis of Murray’s Village, shot and killed at Mt Wynne, April 12, 2002.

Last Friday, December 6, at the Criminal Assizes, Justice Wesley James sentenced OGarro, also known as ‘Toko’ and Charles, aka ‘Boy’, to the time spent in custody plus six calendar months, which means that the two would spend four more months in jail.

They had been in custody for close to 12 years, charged with Lewis’ murder. They pleaded guilty, November 5, 2013.

The two were sentenced to death by hanging 2003, but the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal ordered a retrial for OGarro. After failing at the region’s Court of Appeal, Charles took his matter to the Privy Council where he was also ordered a retrial. Both men were awaiting the second trial when they changed their pleas.

“I think that Justice has been served in the circumstances,” OGarro’s lawyer Ronald Marks told THE VINCENTIAN last Friday.

“The sentence is appropriate in the circumstances, bearing in mind that the defendants pleaded guilty and had spent a significant amount of time on death row,” Marks said.

Charles’ lawyer Nicole Sylvester agreed that justice was served.

Neatly decked in white shirts, OGarro and Charles smiled in satisfaction as they were led away from the High Court building to the nearby male prison.

“I feel great,” OGarro declared, while Charles said: “I feel good.”

A social inquiry report on Charles concluded that he was a good prospect for rehabilitation, while that on OGarro concluded his prospect for rehabilitation was far-fetched.

Marks told the Court, in mitigation, that the case worker came to that

conclusion on OGarro because she was misled by what OGarro’s excommon law wife as well as persons in the communities, where OGarro resided.

The case worker said that OGarro’s ex-common law wife told her that he was abusive to her throughout their relationship, and that he was unsupportive and definitely not a good role model for their daughter.

According to the case worker, persons in Barrouallie described OGarro as a “grave menace,” to the society, “whose mere presence evoked tremendous fear within residents, including his own young associates.”

However, the case worker said that prison officers informed her that OGarro posed little or no difficulty to the institution during his tenure there.

Marks contended that his client’s previous convictions, which were for wounding, damage to property and marijuana possession, were not a record that would conclude that he was a L-R: The happy duo Emishel OGarro and Ken Charles being led out of court after hearing menace to society or that they would spend four more months in jail. his prospect for rehabilitation was farCharles’ lawyer Nicole Sylvester, “There is no evidence that he is fetched. referring to the social inquiry report likely to commit offences and that the “We ask the court to base its on her client, noted that Charles’ society needs to be protected from conclusion on what the prison officers mother said he was well behaved, but him,” Sylvester continued. said and not on commess,” Marks said. had the propensity to follow and to be She pointed to the social inquiry He noted that OGarro’s ex-commoneasily influenced. report in which the case worker said law wife said he was unsupportive and “When one looks at this particular that Charles told her that fateful day a bad influence for their daughter, but accused, it is clear from the social was not to kill a man, but to hunt and Marks stressed that the child was two inquiry report that there is no kill manicou. years old when OGarro was taken into propensity for violent offences. That “Our own community would like us custody. accused gave a statement of confession to take into account the fact that the Marks asked the court to consider and cooperated with the police from accused has spent almost 12 years in that the men spent a significant the outset,” Sylvester said. She added prison, because our community is a amount of time on death row. He that the mitigating factors in the case clear-minded community. The court pointed out that awaiting the death are that Charles could be rehabilitated ought to temper justice with mercy,” penalty alone was torture. and has been rehabilitated.

Sylvester pleaded.

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