27th July, 2012 Edition

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JULY 27, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 30

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

VINCY UNITY AND CULTURE SHOWCASED

THOUSANDS OF VINCENTIANS converged on Brown’s Bay Provincial Park in the 1,000 Islands area in Eastern Ontario, Canada, last Saturday, July 21, for the annual Vincy Unity Picnic.

Considered the largest single gathering of Vincentians after Vincy Mas, the picnic attracted Vincentians from all over Canada, the major Diaspora pockets in the USA (New York, Philadelphia and Boston), the UK , the Caribbean and even some from homeland St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

When the day was done, a day free of any unbecoming behaviour, the single sentiment expressed was a hope that the unity that prevailed at the picnic, would transcend throughout the year and impact the barriers that divide so many at home.

THE VINCENTIAN was pleased to be part of this memorable occasion, and is even more pleased to bring you coverage of the event that is fast becoming the envy of other Caribbean and nonCaribbean peoples.

(SEE PAGES 16, 17 AND 18)

Picnic party crowd bursting at its seams.

Inset: This Vincy woman, Laverne, a member of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organization of Pennsylvania, whose last name is not given, adorned in the national colors, was also a livewire during the entertainment segment.

2. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 3.

News 3

LIAT announces major decisions

THE TWIN-ENGINE TURBOPROP Dash8 airplane that has been a part of the LIAT fleet for over 20 years could soon be a thing of the past.

This was the indication arising out of a meeting of A typical Dash 8 aircraft that has comprised the LIAT fleet for some two decades.

LIAT’s major shareholders regional air carrier.

Dr. Gonsalves said Antigua and Barbuda, Speaking at a press that he and his Prime Barbados and St. Vincent conference following the Minister colleagues, and the Grenadines - and meeting, Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer of the Board of Directors Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Antigua and Freundel and Management. spokesperson for the Stuart of Barbados, The meeting was held major shareholders, said considered in Barbados on Friday the Company has recommendations from 20th, July, and reports completed its analysis the Company’s Board of are that several major and evaluation of the Directors and decisions were agreed on proposals submitted by Management, and the re-fleeting of the aircraft manufacturers. unanimously decided

WE STAY WITH AGRICULTURE in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and present this photograph, mid 1900s, of persons ‘digging arrowroot’ in a field in Biabou.

Much has been said and written about this country’s arrowroot; about its use in baby formula, its use as an ingredient in paper used in printing from early generation computers, and more.

These were the days when arrowroot factories abounded in SVG…, both on the Leeward and Windward sides of the island.

‘Digging arrowroot’ was no easy task; not easy in terms of the

R-L: Dr. Jean Holder, Chairman of LIAT’s Board of Director and Prime Ministers Baldwin Spencer (Antigua), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (SVG) and Freundel Stuart (Barbados). has been chosen. It would also be inappropriate at this stage before discussion with the manufacturers, Choice of aircraft not to give an indication of disclosed the decision of the Company in the selection The Prime Ministers of an aircraft type,” Dr. decided to postpone the Gonsalves added. decision on other aircraft The Board of LIAT types to allow certain anticipates that the matters to be explored. It negotiations would is anticipated that these commence immediately decisions will be made in and proceed swiftly and the short term. soon after a formal “The Company will announcement will be now proceed to made regarding the discussions with the selection. manufacturer of the first type selected. The discussions are intended Non-insurance woes to consummate in an agreement for the acquisition of new In an additional aircraft for the airline. statement arising out of For a number of reasons, the meeting, Dr Ralph we do not wish to declare Gonsalves disclosed that just which aircraft type the under-insurance of upon one aircraft type to renew LIAT’s ageing fleet.

“non aviation components” caused LIAT to incur an additional EC $10 million in damage.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, this brings the price tag for the June fire at one of LIAT hangars in Antigua, to an astounding EC $60 million.

“LIAT, itself, would suffer a loss of about EC $10 million dollars, because that would have been as a result of the under-insurance of the non-aviation components of the fire,” Dr. Gonsalves said.

Dr Gonsalves admitted that the regional carrier had insurance for some of the damage, including the DASH-8 aircraft, but did not have “full coverage.”

(KH)

physical strain on the body, and not ‘easy’ in terms of the wages earned.

But someone had to do the hard work.

This country owes an immeasurable amount of thanks and ‘Grandfather’ pensions to those who bent their backs to ensure that the arrowroot (rhizomes) didn’t stay (like in modern times) to rot in the fields.

Some are wont to say that this photograph is representative of the time when Vincentians worked hard, in as much as to say that in these times we don’t. That is another story.

Lotto Carnival draw winners 1st prize - Ormond Delpeche (right) of Gibson Corner (1) Apple I-pad + 1 Kindle fire + (2) nights for 2 at Buccama resort; 2nd prize - Akeddo Slater (left) of Cane Grove (1) Kindle fire + A day pass at Buccama Resort; 3rd prize - Gracelyn Garrick (2nd from left) Mespo (1) Kindle fire; and NLA Product Development Officer, Anthony Dennie.

Draw was done on Soca Monarch night, July 7th, 2012.

V Basil Charles Foundation hands out scholarships 4. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Stories by KARISSA CLARKE

“ONE SHOULD ALWAYS GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY.” This was the sentiment that rang true at Basil’s Bar on Thursday July 19th 2012, as Basil Charles Educational Foundation held their Scholarship presentation ceremony for the new academic year. Scholarships and Bursaries were awarded to secondary school students Tyree McDowlad, Jafari DaSouza, Mukassa Gaymes, Lericia Abbott, Lafiesha France, Denisa Scholarship and bursary Leteen, Aricia Jones and and Associates.

Chiarra Penniston. also extends itself to Along with the assistance given to these assist in early childhood students, the Foundation education, and has

recipients for 2012 with Basil Charles (centre back) adopted 16 pre-schools from Sandy Bay to Troumaca.According to Basil Charles, Chairman of the Foundation, “Kids learn more between 1

and 7 than at any other time,” as he reiterated the importance of investing in education at this age. To take care of the tiny tots, 450 cots

have been distributed to the pre-schools.

Feeding programmes have also been introduced in those schools. Charles also referred to his Foundation facilitating parenting workshops in Troumaca, Calliaqua and Sandy Bay. The workshops began last Monday.

The BCEF was founded in 1995 as Basil Charles was building his world famous Blues Festival.

Proceeds from the Blues Festival, along with the sale of CDs and donations, have funded this Foundation. Taking a moment with THE VINCENTIAN, the entrepreneur, who began working at the tender age of 12, expressed that he was inspired to start

the Foundation because of his own childhood.

“I’m from Biabou and I didn’t actually finish school, I didn’t go to Secondary School. In those days, school cost a lot of money and that’s something my family didn’t have. Now that I’ve gotten successful, I see that the Government can’t do everything. If people would help, we would have a better country,” he said.

Charles also took the opportunity to thank the many sponsors and benefactors who have contributed consistently through the years, to sustain the work of the Foundation.

Some 96 deserving young people benefit from the fulltime scholarship programme and 59 through bursaries.

Teachers Credit Union assists students Jevonique Edwards, one of the 2 scholarship awardees, addresses the gathering and expresses thanks on behalf of the all the students.

THE SVG TEACHERS CO-OPERATIVE CREDIT UNION LTD. AWARDED STUDENTS making their way through the new halls of Secondary Schools, with Scholarships and Book Vouchers.

On July 24th, 2012, the group of youngsters gathered with happy parents to be presented with the Credit Union’s gifts.

Julian Jack, General Manager,

spoke happily of the contribution that has been made, and said, “I hope we carry the story of the credit union in what it does for education and what it does for the parents and students of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

According to Jack, the Credit Union received seventy odd applications from hopeful youngsters; sixty were approved.

This year’s scholarship holders are Jevonique Edwards and Simeon Greene Jr. The other students were given book vouchers to assist in the ever-rising cost of yearly school books.

Jevonique Edwards expressed thanks on behalf of all the students, while Gwendolyn Burgin, Secretary to the Board of Directors of the Credi Union, congratulated the recipients.

Burgin urged parents to “encourage them (students) to take part in extracurricular activities in secondary school that will make them well rounded individuals.”

Parent Simeon Greene Sr., in brief remarks, expressed that in the eyes of many, “The TCCU seems to be occupying a financial place which cannot otherwise be filled in SVG.”

Some of the recipients of assistance from the Teachers Co-operative Credit Union.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 5.

News

IICA St. Vincent celebrates 20 years of service

by SHERON GARRAWAY WITH AGRICULTURE being one of the leading sectors of economic development, the Inter-American Institute for Corporation and Agriculture (IICA) continues to support its worldwide 34 member states to achieve agricultural development.

It is within this vein that IICA, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary worldwide and its 20th in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, delivers annual reports in an effort to demonstrate transparency and gain feedback from its partners.

On June 27 at the Fisheries Conference Room, the IICA Country Representative Michael Dalton reported that the organization embarked on a country strategy for

2011, with four specific areas for intervention.

The areas tackled were: Formation and Development of Producer Organizations, Development of Rural Women in Agriculture, Youth in Agriculture, and Development of Technical Capacities within Institutions Providing Agricultural Related Services.

Dalton emphasized that while it was critical to give technical support to those involved in agriculture, there was a specific need to ensure that, business and organizational dynamics were enhanced to ensure sustainability.

The technical specialist said IICA was pleased to aid this country in the eradication of the varora mite which, he said, had been ravaging the bees

in this country. He praised the work of the Ministry of Agriculture for helping to reestablish the bee-keeping industry; but however, expressed concern about the new threat of the African Small Hive Beatle.

The IICA Country Representative outlined that the winged creatures were already a menace to the United States and Jamaica, and warned that they could migrate on containers that were being shipped to other counties.

Dalton revealed that this country moved from producing no honey in 2006 to 950 gallons in 2011. He noted that the importation of honey which was 19,076 kilograms in 2008 has decreased to 7,145 kilograms today.

The ICCA country

IIAC head table (l-r) Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture Nathaniel Williams, and IICA Country Representative Michael Dalton. representative also advised the agriculture ministry to inform themselves about the new US Food Safety Modernization Act which could impact the local food industry and have implications for trade.

As far as priority areas of concern for 2012, IICA is committed to: strengthening the capacity of agri-business groups; giving better services to members through technical assistance aimed at improving their structures, procedures and governance; supporting member states’ efforts to strengthen and modernize their technical services; helping to comply with international

A section of the attendees at the IICA report seminar. agreements, standards and conventions; and supporting the actions

and initiatives of organizations, aimed at empowering vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth engaged in agriculture.

Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture Saboto are important to The Argyle International handing over, Chief Governor General Sir Caesar congratulated documenting the history Frederick Ballantyne, in Airport Project received Executive Officer of the IICA on its anniversary US$10,000 from the IADC Dr. Rudy Matthias of Argyle and the people accepting the cheque on and thanked the Friends of the Argyle noted that the of St.Vincent and the behalf of the IADC, organization for its International Airport organization was started Grenadines as a whole. expressed appreciation to continued assistance in (FAIA). It was the first PRO of the FAIA, by a group of patriotic the FAIA for their contri- agriculture.

Garnes Byron said, his time the organisation Vincentians who felt bution in light of the ecoHe said agriculture organization of several has made such a they had to make a nomic environment in has historically been the U.S based Vincentians contribution to the contribution to the which it has been made. bedrock of Vincentian airport. development of their who are passionate about The FAIA has several economy, and stressed The cheque was their home-country, homeland. that there were fund raising events have therefore decided to handed over to Governor Dr. Matthias important roles to play planned for later this General Sir. Frederick explained that there are combine their energies to by many in building that year, and promises to make a contribution to Ballantyne by PRO of some small but sector, since no one CEO of the make further the airport project, as the Organisation Garnes important projects, person had all the International Airport contributions to the Byron, in a ceremony opposed to leaving it to arising out of the large answers.

Development Company, held at Government project.

(KH) outside contributions.

Airport Development Dr. Rudolph Mathias, House, on Sunday Project, which constitute addressing the handing Thursday 19th July. the cultural component over ceremony.

Speaking at that the of the Vincentian Tourism product, and he had encouraged the FAIA to adopt one of these projects, which include the construction of a Heritage Park and a Carib Village.

He pointed out that the IADC has been working closely with the St. Vincent National Trust in this regard, and referred to joint efforts which have facilitated several archeological teams from Holland and Canada.

Excavations within the airport site have PRO of the Friends of the Argyle International already unearthed a Airport USA Mr. Garnes Byron (right) hands over a cheque to Sir Frederick Ballantyne for the Argyle number of significant pieces of artefacts that Airport Contributory Fund.

Airport gets US$10,000 boost

V Godfrey ÂBobbyÊ Fraser laid to rest 6. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Above: It was stamding room only as hundreds came out to bid this national icon farewell.

Left: Mrs. Janice Fraser, Bobby’s wife, about to lay thefirst wreath that signalled the ‘Crown him with Roses’ sendoff.

Right: David ‘Darkie’ Williams delivered the eulogy to his fellow ‘culturalist’.

Left: Media practitioners, including The News’ Shelly Clarke were out in their numbers to say ‘bye’ to a member of their fraternity.

GODFREY ‘BOBBY’ FRASER was laid to rest in the churchyard of the St. George’s Cathedral on Tuesday, July 24.

Hundreds of Vincentians, from many, many walks of life, turned out to pay their last respects to a man who many said had touched their lives either directly or indirectly.

This bears testimony to the man whom eulogist David Darkie Williams described as having forty-seven items of endeavour listed against his name.

THE VINCENTIAN feels a

particular loss since Bobby was the first known regular contributor of full length sports stories for the newspaper, in the early 1960s.

We are pleased to represent the outpouring on the passing of this unquestionable patriot with these few photographs and the eulogy carried on page 20 of this issue.

Stanley ‘Culture Man’ Walker led a chorus of Vincentian and Caribbean snakeys and hymns.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 7.

Views

National Youth Lecture Series commences

disgruntled young colleague on the social media network ‘Facebook’, the featured speaker admonished her audience, “After my presentation tonight, I want for you to determine the merit of both of these status updates” — referring to that posted by her colleague, and her subsequent response.

As Browne’s presentation progressed, the audience was markedly enthralled by her Panellists at The SVG National Youth Lecture Series 2012 balanced scrutiny of the facts ‘Youth in Education’ forum. L-R: Tamira Browne (CARICOM and figures presented. Her Youth Ambassador and 2012 Duke of Edinburgh Gold Medal approach and intent were Awardee); Emil Dougan (President of the Vincentian Students clear. She first worked her Association, UWI St. Augustine); Theon Gordon (Educator way through a global and Graduate Universidad Deportiva Del Sur of Venezuela). perspective on access to education and associated completion rates. She then LAST THURSDAY EVENING speaker for the evening was proceeded to examine the MARKED THE COMMENCEMENT CARICOM Youth Ambassador impact of issues such as “the OF THE SVG NATIONAL YOUTH and 2012 Duke of Edinburgh weight of public opinion as to Lecture Series 2012. The Gold Medal Awardee, Ms. what constitutes good evening's proceedings got going Tamira Browne — presenting schooling” and “national at about 7:20 p.m. with brief on the topic ‘Youth in educational policies” on the introductory and welcoming Education’. equitability and general remarks from Series Coordinator From the outset, Browne performance of the educational and Master of Ceremonies, was able to capture the system.

Jamal Browne. attention of her audience with According to Browne, The event promised to be a her personal accounts and “Within the last decade, there forum with a difference, and analogies. Making reference to has undoubtedly been a so it was. The featured her recent interaction with a continual multiplicity of

developments that serve as an avenue to considerably advance the educational needs of the youth in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”. In this, Browne makes reference to the physical and structural developments within the local educational system within the past decade, but does not fail to detail the methodological improvements made at all educational levels within the same period.

The local challenges to youth in education were by no means overlooked. While reminding her audience of the traditional challenges of “male marginalization” and “[The] breakdown in discipline and guidance”, they were also enlightened on more contemporary concerns ranging from “The problem of social stigma and discrimination towards youth with disabilities” to “Lowerthan-anticipated results at CAPE/A-Level Examinations”.

Browne in conclusion stated that, “we must understand that it is education itself which will assist in building a sustainable economy and in

creating the means which in turn must pay for the education of the succeeding generations”.

The featured speaker’s presentation was greeted with a resounding applause from the audience. The panel discussion and open forum which followed were perfect complements to Browne’s presentation, as the contributions of panellists Mr. Emil Dougan and Mr. Theon Gordon reinforced the message of a fast improving educational system with scope for improvements.

The SVG National Youth Lecture Series 2012 continued last evening with ‘Youth in Arts & Culture’, at the Peace Memorial Hall. The featured speaker was young visual artist and video producer, Mr. Akley Olton — Graduate of the UWI Cave Hill’s Errol Barrow Centre for Creative Imagination. Next Thursday’s featured speaker would be Media Expert, Mr. Hawkins Nanton, who would present on ‘Youth in Media — The Facebook Generation’.

(Contributed)

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8. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 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 Another look at the Vincy diaspora THE ANNUAL VINCY UNITY PICNIC at Brown’s Bay Provincial Park in the 1,000 Islands area in eastern Ontario, Canada, brought into sharp focus not only what it means to be a ‘displaced unified people’, but also what that ‘displaced unified people’ could mean for their motherland.

In this period of globalization, we have to learn new ways of doing things, and this depends, in no small measure, on our ability to interact with the larger, ‘outside’ world, including the Vincentian Diaspora.

Unfortunately, the discussion on how to deal with or find our way in this ‘globalization’ is too often confined to encouraging the movement of goods and capital across borders, de-emphasizing to too much of a degree the movement of knowledge, talent and skills which are just as crucial to learning and development.

That is why it is important that we, the motherland of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, must stop playing lip service to interacting, integrating with our Vincentian Diaspora, and start delivering on concrete action.

Ten thousand and more Vincentians at one picnic tells of a large pool of skilled people of Vincentian heritage sitting, waiting to be tapped. Undoubtedly, these overseas communities of Vincies constitute a significant resource for the development of the motherland.

That is why to continue to view the Diaspora only through the looking glass of remittances and financial flows is to take a myopic view. While that (remittances) is important, given the fragility of the economy at home, we have to move cash flows from the Diaspora to a level of real investment in the productive sectors of the economy. But the value of the Diaspora does not stop at terms of financial contributions to the home country.

The Vincentian Diaspora is an important resource pool of knowledge, expertise and markets for development.

Successful exploitation of this reservoir of resources is predicated on the ability of the Diaspora to develop and project a coherent, intrinsically motivated and progressive identity, and the capacity of the home country to encourage and establish conditions and institutions for sustainable, symbiotic and mutually rewarding engagement.

The question for SVG: Have we truly recognized the need to pursue and promote the dynamic of the Diaspora and development?

There are no real indications that we have, given the inertia at home, and to continue along this path of inactivity is to miss out on the proverbial ‘golden opportunity’. Not to act now is to stand the chance of losing the resource of the Vincentian Diaspora to other markets of potential investment.

In every part of the world where they are found, Vincentians are recognized and respected for their hard work, discipline and successful integration into the communities in which they reside.

Regardless of how many and to what degree they have become assimilated in their ‘new homes’, they share a paternal bond with their country of origin. They maintain their language (dialect),culture and traditions (as demonstrated in the Unity Picnic).

We, at home, appear to be marking time, as other ‘home countries recognize the need to engage their ‘Diasporas’ and move to build concrete partnerships.

Sooner than soon, we have to wake up to the need, given the tribulations of depleting aid and direct foreign (nonVincentian) investment, to engage our own Diaspora in a sustainable and mutually rewarding manner across the economic, social and cultural spheres. This must become central to the overall national policy for development; not a policy that confines itself to the immediacy of an international airport only.

The time is now to move to correct the partisan manner in which we sold the airport construction, failing in the process to capitalize on a real opportunity to galvanize Vincentians around a genuine development policy and plan, to reach out to Vincentians abroad and show them the opportunities that abound for investing in the development of their homeland.

To go cap in hand will not work; a meaningful plan for engagement must be devised across partisan lines.

Bananas: A rallying-cry and unifying force (First Printed on January 26, 1996) “THIS WEEK WE ANSWER the call to join in the national mobilisation to consolidate support for our struggling banana industry, the very life-blood of this country.

Started off in 1954 on the initiative of Rudolph Baynes and S.O. “Jim” Jack, the industry over the past forty years became the mainstay of the economy, pulling in just about one-half of the nation’s export earnings.

Unlike its predecessors “King Sugar” and others which were virtually plantation crops, bananas became the salvation of the small grower, the peasant cultivator, amenable even to back yard farming that produce five to ten boxes or so. The small man was grateful for small mercies. It all added up and, being a cash crop, contributed to the tilly that kept the pot on the fire and the wolf from the door.

From a social as well as economic point of view, banana has been saviour, it helped to impart some dignity and lend a measure of independence to the little man working his own half acre or so: “Is fo me own”. Equally, WIBDECO must so impact on the farmer as to persuade him that he is part and parcel of the new organization.

All over the country, the fruits of the banana revolution have been in evidence; but nowhere more so than in the South Central Windward Constituency. Windward Lowmans and Grieggs became thriving rural communities built around the banana plant. And the “Freedom Land” at Lauders was transformed over night, from being a rundown estate to presenting a picture of successful family farms with wall houses replete with the most modern conveniences.

Small wonders New Grounds, situatd smack in South Central, has been chosen as venue for this conclave of banana devotees.

No doubt Rabacca Farms, which is the old Orange Hill Estate turned into hundreds of Independent small holdings, also follow suit in an exercise that creates the real basis for a propertyowning democracy.

Bananas outreach in these Windward Islands is simply comprehensive. It touches everybody.

The economy reacts faithfully to swings in banana income. That is why we cannot roll over, no matter how stiff the competition and strong the odds.

The rallying cry has all the ingredients for success. Not only the farmer, but super market owner, the hard-ware department, vehicle-sales people, the banks, the professions- you name itall depend on bananas directly or indirectly, one way or another, for sustenance.

At this crucial time, therefore, it behoves every man Jack to come together on this issue. For in this business, we carry one head, worship at one church, affiliate to one party, belong to one extended family. This Sunday, all roads lead to New Grounds where, indeed we hope to break new ground!

In the past, it has not been easy to create unity in any aspect of our life. Divisions, dissensions, upstaging and individualism have been our chief trade-mark, our main

characteristics.

But a close look at some of the dramatics personae shows how much banana has been involved in their lives.

Our Prime Minister Mitchell is an agronomist pre-occupied with the banana question. Leader of the Opposition, Vincent Beache, grows banana.

So, too, do the present and past Chairman of the Association Lesline Best and Hugh Stewart, as well as Chairman of WIBDECO, Arnhim Eustace.

Simeon Greene, Manager of the Association, once managed a Boxing Plant and, like Minister of Agriculture Allan Cruickshank, supplement their earnings by farming bananas to boot.

Ralph Gonsalves claims that he grew up and was educated by bananas.

In St Lucia, one of Prime Minister Compton’s delights was to toil alongside the workers on his banana fields. Dr. Vaughn Lewis, now leader of the ruling Party in St Lucia is a noted banana farmer. And Dominica’s Prime Minister Eddison James is a trained agriculturalist who cut his political teeth on unionised banana workers.

Bananas unify the Windwards. Even in Grenada where the dependence is small, Prime Minister Keith Mitchell came out with all guns blazing against the deviousness and bullying tactics of the U.S multi-national Chiquita which barged into our home, using its monetary clout to act every bit like a bull in a China shop.

In fact, the question goes beyond the narrow issue of bananas. It has broadened its scope to embrace issues of general survival of small countries in a hostile world environment, and the vexed matter of micro-states having to fend for themselves on an uneven playing-field and bat on a sticky wicket. St Kitts does not grow bananas in commercial quantities, but its Prime Minister had the perception to note that we are all in the same boat and has virtually lent support to our slogan “Hands off our Bananas”.

As to St Lucia which currently presents the fly in the ointment, one counsels caution. At no time must we adopt a condemnatory, holier-than —thou or condescending attitude. History has laid a heavy hand on us. In the process, a divide- andrule policy was used to telling effect. We have patiently and gently to remind some St Lucians of this historical trap….

Meanwhile, hats off to radio Announcer Glen Jackson who has shown us the power of the media used constructively in the service of public mobilisation and geared at nation building.

And when we have finished this round, let us use the conclaver as a new launching pad to Windwards unity. There is no other way forward”.

The foregoing is a reminder to the banana people now embroiled in another crisis and the entire nation as a whole, that only real togetherness on the home front, then extended to the Windwards brotherhood and beyond, can get us anywhere.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 9.

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Congrats!!

I MUST congratulate THE VINCENTIAN on its new website. Talk about an improvement!!!!!

Not only am I able to access the site a lot quicker, but it is so better laid out that it makes for easy browsing.

Now I am able to access news and features that I know would be different from what the others have to offer.

Garnet, N.Y.

L.A Providence remembered IN FACT, I can’t get LAP out of my head; I think of him every minute. LAP was a prolific writer in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, but his writing lacked substance.

When Providence taught at Union Methodist School for one term in 1945, he impressed young pupils with his violin playing.

He was a senior citizen when he wrote ‘Give us calypso music in West Indian style’!

He disregards other forms of music, ‘even American music’.

This bit of narrow, thoughtless writing ensures that I think of him every time I listen to classical music, jazz, blues, folk, African, Indian and world music.

I did comment when Providence’s piece appeared, so it would be of no surprise to him that I did not rate him as a writer; his world was too small.

Avil Cupid

LetÊs get the small things right MR. PRIME MINISTER, I draw the following to your attention: 1. The Ministry of Education is in crisis.

Many continue to sound this warning, and I think it is time that action is taken. The management team does not have the right composition, and the members are failing miserably. For example, being a good project manager does not mean that a person can successfully run a Ministry. That has now been proven. The head of the Ministry must have intimate knowledge of what happens in the classroom. Teaching at the premier institution for a couple of years is not enough.

For the last three years, there have not been any significant improvements in education to match the amount of resources that have been pumped in.

Yes, we have had many projects and new units opened, but what about quality? Nothing! We can always blame teachers, but ultimately the leadership must be held responsible.

Sir, please take the Chief out of her misery; reassign her to a desk job, let her write.

Principals, parents and teachers have not been more de-motivated as they are at this time. We cannot afford to continue this gamble with education in this country.

2. The Permanent Secretaries need to be accountable to someone.

At the Cabinet (committee) meetings, they report on projects etc; but what about the daily running of the ministries? Who holds them accountable for, e.g., the frequency with which they hold staff meetings? Who is asking

them about the low morale and high levels of indiscipline that exist in their ministries?

Look at the empty key result indicators some of them write. Why are they allowed to get away with this? They do not attend meetings unless the Prime Minister is present. Are they lords unto themselves? Come on, let us do better than that, so please find some way to make them deliver.

I am fully convinced that if Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Department are made to get the small things right, we would see increased productivity in this country. You, Mr. Prime Minister, speak of it often; well it is time to act. This attitude of being too busy dealing with “policy matters” is silly, any how it is looked at. They need to employ their staff members in

A very troubled public servant

Talk of crime spoilt my carnival I WAS ONE OF THE MANY Vincentians who returned home for this year’s carnival. While I came hoping to enjoy myself, I could not escape the warnings from my family and friends about where I should go and where I should avoid.

It seems, according to my family and friends,that the incidence of open robbery on the streets and burglary has increased recently in a place I boasted as the safest

place anywhere in the world.

What irked the most was news of a young female artist who was shot to death supposedly by a burglar. That just did it for me.

What is my SVG coming to? Have Vincentians grown so accustomed to crime that now they simply accept as normal, the news that someone else has been robbed or shot?

And it seems that citizens have become prisoners in their own

homes, as they sit in their homes in fear, behind their burglar bars.

What concerns me is whether there is a plan to combat this escalation in crime. The Prime Minister has spoken both in SVG and here in New York about how his government is going to be ‘tough on crime’.

Where is this toughness?

I must confess that the prevailing atmosphere during my recent visit home, dampened my spirits,

Could we please help the police AT LEAST ONE CALYPSONIAN got be thinking this year.

Funny enough, it was not one of the favourites.

It was ’Man Zangie’ who called for citizens of this country to develop a relationship with the police, in an effort to help the police do their work.

That is a noble call, and it got me thinking.

I think that the police have been at the wrong

such a way that the service would get maximum benefit, and the individuals themselves will be able to shine where they are strong.

3. Appointments in this service, particularly into important positions, should not be based on who knows how to lobby or have others to lobby for them. That has failed us repeatedly, so let it cease. Instead, experience, training and general ability must be the guiding factors.

There are a lot of talented and capable persons in the service; let us look for them and place them in positions where those talents can be put to work.

Sir, for the good of this nation, let us “get the small things right”.

end of the stick for too long. How often have we accused the police about being incompetent and lambast them when they slip up? I say we have done this too often and as a result, it demoralizes the men and women who have sworn to protect us.

The situation is like raising a child. If we tell the child morning, noon and night how bad he/she is, the child will

begin to accept that he/she is bad. If we keep harassing the police and ‘picking up for the criminals’ because one or two bad apples in the police force use highhanded tactics against civilians, then the police too will feel that they are helpless.

What do you think will happen? The criminals would take over, and not one of us wants that.

So, I join with ‘Man Zangie’ in calling on all right thinking citizens of this country to join the police in the fight against crime. Good police work depends on information and citizens can help with providing information when they have it.

So let’s make SVG a safe place by joining in the fight against crime.

Kevin J.

and I did not enjoy the carnival as I would have done on previous occasions.

Fighting crime, I must admit, is everybody’s business; the police cannot do it all. But with all the talk of how much the government has done to alleviate poverty, and how much it has done for the poor, this should disprove what many sociologists believe, i.e. crime originates among this class of people. If this is true, then from whence do the criminals come?

We have some work to do to restore SVG to the safe and blessed land it once was.

Evans, L

A day of prayer and fasting I INVITE ALL CITIZENS of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to join me in a day of fasting and prayer on Wednesday 25th July 2012.

Jesus told his disciples that “This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting”. Mark 9:29 Our land needs much prayer. Let this be our daily duty. As Christians, we are called to pray without ceasing. Let’s pray especially for our leaders and the community.

We do our best, God will do the rest.

Augustine Dick/Wilkes

* Why are people asking if the department of Sports is to be closed? * When is all that ‘stupidness’ in parliament going to stop? Are the Parliamentarians aware that less and less people are listening to hear a real debate and instead, they say that it is good entertainment? * Who is advising Bottlers not to declare bankruptcy? * When is the police going to get that ‘thief man’ known as ‘Doctor’ against whom many complaints have been made? * How is it ordinary public servants can’t get a little 3% increase but a whole set a fellows getting big money to do party business?

V ULP succession:

10. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The truth from Preparing the party for the future inside the parliament The issue

FOR SOME TIME now, the NDP and its sycophants, including Kenneth John, have been hinting at the succession plans within the ULP. They seem to suggest that the ULP leadership is old and weary, the party is rudderless, and that there is no one capable of leading the ULP in the years to come.

In addition, the NDP and its sycophants have sought to introduce the issue of favouritism and nepotism, by trying to confuse the country about the facts, and by attempting to place a wedge between the leader of the ULP, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, and his son, Camillo.

Further, the NDP wants to create confusion and distract the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines from the real socio-economic issues in the country. This is where the real debate should be, and this is where the opposition NDP is found wanting, empty, and devoid of any sensible ideas at this time.

party. The NDP is still reeling from the loss of Senator Anesia Baptiste, and there is no other bright spark on the horizon. Vynette Frederick has damaged whatever reputation she had, and Maia Eustace, the daughter of Arnhim Eustace, may be having second thoughts about entering the political arena.

Ralph Gonsalves vs Arnhim Eustace

Even if we take this discussion along a narrow path and compare the two political leaders, we can see the width of the gulf that exists between the ULP and the NDP. The leader of the ULP, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, has established himself as one of the foremost leaders in Caricom. He is a social scientist with tremendous work in economics, government, philosophy, history, law and administration. He is The leadership issue in great demand in the region as a public speaker and a consultant.

But we note that Arnhim Eustace There is no leadership issue within has had a difficult time attracting the the Unity Labour Party. In fact, the attention of credible regional Central Executive of the ULP, on institutions for public engagements. hearing talks of the Party Leader calling it quits before the next general He simply does not have the pedigree and the leadership characteristics to elections, took a decision to disabuse attract regional institutions. Even the Comrade about any such notion.

For the record, the Central Executive within his party, there are doubts about his ability to lead the NDP, and of the ULP has said that Dr. Ralph persons are simply biding their time Gonsalves will lead the ULP into the before making their move. Why did next general elections, in 2015 or the member for Central Kingstown, when it is called.

St. Clair Leacock, call for “fresh legs” In any event, the ULP boasts a following the defeat at the polls in cadre of young Vincentians who are 2010? Why did Sir James Mitchell call being made ready for any leadership on Arnhim Eustace to “listen to the role, when the time arises. There is Saboto Caesar, the tireless Minister of voice of the people” in his famous Agriculture who is making a name for interview with Jerry George? himself in the country, leading the resurgence in this vital sector. There The problem with the NDP is Luke Browne, a Rhodes Scholar, who is currently doing great work in The NDP faces two critical the constituency of East Kingstown. problems at this current time. The There is also Camillo Gonsalves, who first is “How to convince Vincentians is doing great work for the country, that the current party is different and and indeed for the ULP distinct from the old party under Sir administration, in the area of Foreign James?” Unfortunately no one in the Relations and matters related to the NDP has the strategy to either design Diplomatic Corps. the party in such a way that it is There are others waiting in the different from the 1984 to 2001 wings. Cecil Mc Kie, though not as version. So all the sins of the NDP, young as the others, is certainly to be including the Ottley Hall project, the considered. There are Elvis Charles, crises in education, poverty and David Browne, Ronnie Marks, Sehon health, housing and the high level of Marshall, Lyndon George and Richard corruption, continue to plague that Williams, all with varying leadership, party. political and management skills, but The second problem is that the who are all ready to provide NDP has not been able to formulate a leadership within the ranks of the socio-economic development policy to Unity Labour Party. convince Vincentians that they are What of the females? Following the the party of the future. In the absence example set by Rene Baptiste and of this, they have embarked on a Girlyn Miguel, we have Michelle Fife system of criticism, attempting to and Rochelle Forde among the young denigrate all the projects women who are ready to provide implemented by the ULP leadership. There are a number of administration. young women who have benefited They have done so, even where from the Education Revolution, and these projects benefit the people of who are ready to work with the ULP St.Vincent and the Grenadines, even administration in any form or fashion, their own supporters. They have been to ensure that the party remains in found to be unpatriotic, criticizing power. their own countrymen, and this island The opposition New Democratic called St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

Party cannot boast about this cadre of The majority of Vincentians have young people. The fact is that young discovered what the NDP is all about, people have not been flocking to and they will never allow the NDP to become members of the NDP, and to return to wreck this country. take up leadership positions in that

ON TUESDAY, July 24, the parliamentary caucus of the New Democratic Party took a number of questions to the Parliament in an effort to keep track of how this government has continued to short change the people of this nation. What transpired was a marathon of rhetoric, non answers, soliloquies, damning admissions and evasion of the major issues, a clear indication that the ULP have run out of ideas, and are not in a position to govern effectively.

That talker The Speaker of the House received a severe tongue lashing from the leader of the New Democratic Party the Hon. Arnhim Eustace and could do nothing but cower under the truthful barrage that he conducts the business of the house in a biased and one-sided manner. In one of the most cutting outbursts, uncharacteristic of the usual calm Arnhim Eustace, the Leader of the Opposition condemned the Speaker’s approach to his job. He pointed out what some term the Speaker’s ignorance disguised as arrogance, in failing to understand that in an 8-7 Parliamentary dispensation, the concerns of the Opposition must not be ignored as nonsense. There is much improved capacity required in this parliament, and the current talker is as one-sided as they come. The people of the nation are not blind to the bias, and it is a shame what passes for talking these days.

the Prime Minister was compelled to come clear on exactly what is, or is not happening in the area of police training insofar as violence against women and human trafficking are concerned. Frederick wondered whether there has been any upgrade to the Police Manual used to train recruits at the Police Training School.

Women who have been victims of violence, have found it difficult to make reports to the police. The Prime Minister indicated that he would really look to see how the training of police officers was being done, because this issue transcends the cut and thrust of the parliament and its politics. It affects us all. Mention was also made of the investigations into potential human trafficking cases right here on our shores.

The fiscal situation…civil service getting nothing

The Hon. Arnhim Eustace always makes a point of looking into the state of this nation’s economy.

Without much fanfare, the Prime Minister in answer to his question requiring details about the fiscal outturn this quarter, confirmed that we are still running a deficit on the recurrent budget. So, we are still in a hole, and the capital programme is at a virtual standstill. He further admitted that he was in no way able No money nah dey fo de road an’ to make the 3% salary increase dem demands of the Unions which he himself had previously legislated as If Senator Julian Francis had his far back as 2011. And even more way, he would get up and shout at the depressing for the civil servants is his top of his lungs to the Prime Minister admission that he is uncertain as to his cousin, NO MONEY NAH DEY….! when the monies will be paid.

Of course to do that, he would have to admit what they all already know: The genteel poor The total and utter mismanagement of the government’s coffers, their While the energy surcharge inability to create sustainable continues to escalate, the government anything in this country has meant is still unable to address the question that our infrastructure will continue of affordability, which impacts us all, to fail. Representatives Matthews, especially those below the poverty line Cummings and Leacock are all and the disappearing middle class. In begging for work to be done in their fact, the Prime Minister admitted constituencies, but the verdict is that we in this country have a new this….there is no money, no money, breed of poverty, the genteel poor, no money, and the roads continue to who notwithstanding their good deteriorate. As our roads continue to homes, are unable to manicure their disappear, what is worse…despair, or lawns. He left their problems up to disrepair. the University of the West Indies for further research.

Police domestic violence and Parliament continues next week, trafficking when more money will be filched from the pockets of the air travelers. Stay At the urging of Senator Frederick, tuned.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 11.

Views

If tomorrow starts without me

“Learn as if you would live forever, live as if you would die tomorrow.” - “Mahatma” Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (1869–1948) Indian nationalist & Hindu reformer, lawyer, called Mahatma ‘great soul.’

THE BRAIN IS A MIGHTY powerful organ.

Mankind has been fascinated by its capabilities for centuries. Within modern times, we have discovered so much about its growth and development, which sections are responsible for which capabilities, what activities enhance specific powers, which nutrients contribute to or retard specific functions, how hormones influence its capabilities, and so on. And yet there is still so much for us to learn about this 3-pound mass of grey matter that is so carefully encased in that bony structure we call skull. Ponder with me for a moment: How are thoughts created? How does the brain store memories? There are so many questions that we can place on the table for consideration. And in those few seconds when we pondered how the brain works, we were distracted from the thoughts that emerged as the brain speedily processed thoughts revolving around today’s topic – “If tomorrow starts without me.” Some of us may have immediately contemplated what it would be like for those loved ones that we would leave behind, should we die today. Others would have speedily skirted away from those thoughts, not wanting to consider such a morbid possibility.

Whatever our reaction, this introductory paragraph revealed that a number of thoughts were generated as our eyes glanced at those words. It was automatic.

The brain speedily processed those ideas, and we consciously determined whether or not we would develop them. Now, whether we reacted by advancing the thoughts or shirking away from them, let me invite us to seriously consider what it would be like if tomorrow starts without us; without me; without you. It will be uncomfortable for some of us but, be assured; it will be useful for all of us.

Great ideas exist in every society.

They can emerge from people of every race, tribe, religion, and gender. No single group has a monopoly on ideas, talents, or abilities. And regardless of which “camp” we are in, we can learn from others, from other “tribes” and from other civilisations. Students of philosophy derive great value from meditating on the thoughts of the great prophets, ancient scribes, the ancient pharaohs and so on. The modern day students, regardless of their upbringings, have benefited from reading the works of the Dali Lama, Malcolm X, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, Mohandas Gandhi and the like. Take, for example, the Gandhi quotation that was used to introduce this essay, “Learn as if you would live forever, live as if you would die tomorrow.” These words encourage sobering thoughts about the value of lifelong learning, the fragility of life, and the significance of living with purpose.

What is your life’s purpose? What life tasks have been assigned to you?

How well are you performing them? If tomorrow were to start without you would you have completed your task?

And while these questions may appear to be pointed at you, the reader, be assured that this writer is challenged to do the introspection too. So, where are

we in accomplishing our various assignments? Stay with me here.

Please. Let us walk through the exercise a little slower now. This is a critical juncture for all of us. What roles are we playing? We have all been assigned the role of son or daughter.

And while we had no part in selecting our parents — we are here because of their reproductive cells. Some of us have been assigned the role of brother or sister, father or mother, friend, confidant, and so on. If tomorrow starts without you, how well would you have performed those roles? As for me, having reflected on the situation, I understand and appreciate that I am still “work in progress”, imperfect in so many ways, but striving to improve with each advancing step along the journey of life. I still have mountains to climb (so to speak). My legs may periodically feel tired and I may stump my toes from time to time. But I must go on. The journey is not ended. There is still work for me to do. There are unfinished tasks that I must now pursue with increased energy and focus.

What about you? Have the words of this article unearthed some latent assignment that you must now dust off and pursue? What will you do about it?

What will we do about them?

There is a very important “appendix question” that clings to the thoughts that we have shared so far; if tomorrow starts without you, where will you be?

Where will you spend eternity? This writer believes that there is life after death and that the decisions that we make on this side of eternity will determine where we spend the rest of time. And while others may laugh and scoff at such an idea (and some may accuse me of encouraging persons to believe in fables) be assured that this is not a matter to make fun of. The gift of eternal life (life after death) is obtained through faith in the saving power of Jesus Christ. The New Testament book of John reveals how this is possible.

For example, read the words of Jesus Christ the third chapter of John and learn about this miracle of the “new birth”.

As surely as yesterday was tomorrow will come. But there is no guarantee that you and I will be here to greet that new day. It therefore behoves each of us to focus on the responsibilities that have been assigned to us today. Let us do these errands, and make these decisions, with wisdom and the greatest of urgency; no more procrastination; no more putting off; no more delay. Those assignments that we have been postponing — letters to write, e-mail messages to send, telephone calls to make, relationships to patch up, lifestyles to change, expressions of love and gratitude to convey, and so on.

There is no more time for delay. I must do them now; today. And, when I do so, I can smile at the future, knowing that all is well if tomorrow should start without me.

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

Freedom ain’t free DEAR MAMA WINNIE, Wednesday July 18 was Nelson Mandela’s birthday. He is 94 years old.

Headlines celebrating him as peace leader and iconic African symbol adorn papers everywhere. I’m thinking of you, wondering how you are today.

Like so many millions all over the world, I love and respect your ex. All over the world, your ex’s name on lips black, brown, white, yellow, red, white is a smile, a celebration. Yet, your name is a pause, a silence, a quiet - our now created memory of your magic turned mayhem, a time that is best forgotten.

It is not that I refuse to celebrate your ex’s birthday, it is that I don’t know yours. And I should. And we should. But we did not find space to sanction your walk through bloody revolution. You did not leave apartheid’s legacy with the glory your ex did.

You became the other woman, not in your marriage, but in a movement. You became a revolutionary home-wrecker in this new South Africa, a casualty in a relationship between the African National Congress, apartheid leader F W De Klerk and the intrusive eyes of a global media that no longer wanted your presence nor recognized your contribution.

How did you become that? We watched as your freedom ride with Nelson became a global celebration, real live revolutionary love against the odds, an apparent power couple. You and your husband walked streets lined with hope, change, and revolution.

Soon after, you became a woman whose woman-ness was forgotten.

Relationships break down, they end.

But your body - like so many millions became a battlefield as men fought for political power. Being tough on you was evidence of this new South Africa.

Headlines detailing horrific actions that led to the loss of life of a boy would become the narrative that would haunt and condemn you.

In war, blood drips from all hands, so you often can’t tell whose blood or from whose hands by the end of war. But this was not that. This was a people defending themselves against statesanctioned violence, a legitimate defense on an international stage. Your blood and your hands were marked. De Klerk suffered no such fate. He won a peace prize, alongside your ex. Steve Biko’s killer endured no such humiliation.

But you did. We watched. You took the stand and wanted to fight, to protest this treatment, to condemn this re-written narrative. Those who denounced you failed to recognize how your revolutionary choices ultimately helped move a people to political freedom and certainly enabled a man to become a symbol. But, revolutionaries don’t inherit thrones, however. So I wonder, how you are now?

In South Africa, an Xhosa woman spat her words of anger at your now ex, demanding whose authority he had when he asked the Black majority to forgive the White minority. “‘Forgive them,” he said. Two words aimed at a white minority who had profited from legislating your inhumanity, creating economic injustice from that legislation and then demanding it be maintained, even as Soweto babies bled and died fighting to breathe legislated freedom. In response, a Xhosa woman asked who she should forgive for her children buried because they weren’t willing to sit and wait for freedom while their parents were too afraid to step back into the fire of rubber necklaces and brutal regimes.

Desmond Tutu, loved and cherished, sounded his clarion call for truth and reconciliation. The Commission he created was hailed as a model for the world to emulate, a place of unraveling secrets of horror. Was it just that? Or was it also a rewarded hypocrisy -

treasured by a global predominantly White male media congratulating Black men for not punishing White men who committed state- sanctioned violent and heinous acts on Black bodies.

Your fate was not to escape. You were punished, humiliated on a world stage, and banished from the public gaze. Still a force with the people but invisible via a world lens - that space was now occupied by your ex, Desmond Tutu, F W De Klerk, the global mainstream media. You were no longer a revolutionary, you became a cause for apology.

Desmond Tutu demanded you apologize to the world for your actions on the battlefield, actions that others walked away from - unscarred and unscathed. This is Africa, post independence, post apartheid. This Continent whose leadership is always celebrated as long as it acts outside of its own people’s interests and instead represents those of the minority. You occupied freedom, freedom was a slave master who took your efforts, energy, strategy and defiance and sold it at the auction block of political compromise.

So, I wonder if there were moments when freedom and forgiveness became an ‘f’ word; the taste of blood and pain on your tongue.

Let me be clear. Forgiveness is revolutionary practice, not race baiting.

What I was waiting for was your ex’s suggestion that you forgive yourself. I call this emotional justice - looking at the toll of injustice on who we become emotionally and how that legacy reaches from those past moments into our present and far into our future, demanding our attention. That your ex forgives you for what you endured in your bid to walk a delicate treacherous balance in that apartheid world. I wonder about that. Forgiveness for me, like black love, is revolutionary.

So, I waited to hear your ex ask black South African men and women to forgive themselves and each other for what they must have put themselves and their families through in order to navigate hostile apartheid waters and come out breathing. That didn’t happen.

Your ex asked the Black majority to forgive the white minority - and he continues to be rewarded for that act.

Your ex is an icon, a living symbol, and a celebrated hero. You are not that.

Your name is revered by those dismissed as marginal revolutionaries, calling for now long gone times of your heyday, when towns to which you were banished still heard your call for freedom and equality for the South African Black majority. I am not mad at Nelson, nor his beautiful wife Graca Machel. This is about emotional justice - it is about a woman’s contribution to a nation’s freedom not being re-written and new narratives of negation and subjugation replacing revolution.

It’s tough when your ex is the icon and folks want to reduce you to the bitter ex-wife who never really helped realize not just her husband’s dream, but that of a nation. Silence was my mother’s best friend out of untreated trauma. It didn’t work for her or this girl child. I don’t want that to be a cancerous force for you either. So, as we honored your ex’s birthday; I wondered how you are? As I acknowledge, celebrate and smile for Mr. Nelson Mandela, I just wanted to check in with you. I hope you are well.

Love, Esther Esther Armah. Ms Armah is a media critic and critical thinker.

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

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12. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Economic cannibalism is eating the poor EVERYTHING IS DEAD, and many of those who live are cannibals, feeding off the blood and misery of the poor.

Our country is suffering under economic cannibalism. Gonsalves allows the super rich of Mustique, Canouan Resorts and Taiwan blanket tax and customs duty exemptions, yet the poor struggle to survive. This policy eats the poor to feed the rich.

Gonsalves sells off prime agricultural land to foreigners for tourism projects that don’t really benefit the poor, and uses prime agricultural land to build a jail. Meanwhile, the agricultural industry is failing and our country struggles to feed itself. This puts the nation’s food security at risk.

Gonsalves sells off crown lands to fill holes in the budget, then wastes the country’s money with failed projects, then sells off more crown lands to fill the even bigger holes in the budget. The country is getting poorer, and our people are getting poorer as our wealth is sold to the rich.

Under Gonsalves, the economy is eating itself. He raises taxes, and uses VAT for income; but this just eats up businesses. Businesses sales go down, they are forced to fire people, fewer people then have

private sector and creating a serious lack of innovation and growth. This means no money is created by businesses, and no jobs are created by businesses. money, and fewer people can pay tax, so the Why do we continue down Gonsalves’ economic government’s income gets lower. path to ruin and destruction, when it is so clearly lit In response, Gonsalves raises taxes again, by the beacon of our nation’s bankruptcy? increases electricity and water prices, then people The monetary lifeblood of our country is being have less money, and so it goes on in circles. Our sucked out of our people under the economic cannieconomy is like a hungry man eating himself to feed balism of the ULP regime. Taiwan exploits SVG’s himself. This stupid policy chokes the economy and deep sea fish licence and takes the country’s wealth, sucks money out of circulation.

Under economic cannibalism, desperation sets in, when this money should be used to fund free education from pre-school to university. Economic cannias the inequality between the rich and the poor becomes greater, and crime and poverty become the balism is creating widespread social instability. main products, as people struggle to put food on the A Green economy is the solution to the economic table for the family. cannibalism in SVG and will create thousands of As more and more taxpayers’ money is being new jobs and new, sustainable revenue for the spent on crime, less and less is available to invest in country. We need to bring prosperity to our people education. As more and more people leave school and use indigenous resources to create new products without an education and without skills to be for export to stimulate economic growth. SVG must employable; more and more people turn to crime, plough heavy investments into education and move and more and more money is wasted fighting this away from economic cannibalism and the delusion of relentless spiral of crime. tourism.

Gonsalves’ policies persecute the productive potential of the economy — professionals, investors, SVG Green Party entrepreneurs and skilled workers — stifling the www.svggreenparty.org

Drummers attend festival in Venezuela

by SHERON GARRAWAY THE INDIGENOUS RHYTHMS of Garifuna music were poured out on cultural enthusiasts at the Cultural Festival of Alba Countries, which was held from 13-16 July in Venezuela.

This was made possible by a fivemember delegation of the local drumming group, Resistance Heartbeat Drummers, who attended the Festival, accompanied by Ambassador to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Yoel Perez Marcano.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN, Ambassador Marcano said that, while the festival was a cultural celebration of ALBA countries, it was also a gesture by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in St Vincent and the Grenadines to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries, and to promote continued friendship.

Marcano said that the State of Aragua in Venezuela issued the official invitation to the Resistance Heartbeat Drummers which he pointed out has been adopted by the Embassy as a group which particularly promotes the Garifuna Culture.

He elaborated, “It is very important to us to help in the development of the

group, because we feel that the people of Venezuela and the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines are together with the same origin with the African and Caribbean culture….St.Vincent and the Grenadines will be sharing their heritage, they will in turn learn from others from ALBA.” The Venezuelan Ambassador also revealed that in the month of September, the Embassy will bring a group from Venezuela to St Vincent and the Grenadines to perform in Kingstown and rural areas.

Overwhelming reception Meanwhile, leader of Resistance Heartbeat Drummers Mwata Byron said this was the first overseas trip that the two-year-old group had engaged in, and that they were extremely grateful for the opportunity.

Byron said the response by Venezuelans was overwhelming, as adults and children alike from the Spanish-speaking nation, danced and pranced to the music, and rushed to take photos with members of the group.

He commended the Venezuelan Embassy for supporting and helping to promote the indigenous tunes.

The head musician noted, “We did African, Garifuana, Vincentian as well

Ambassador Yoel Perez Marcano (third from right) greets members of the Resistance Heartbeat Drummers.

Mwata Byron is pictured shaking hands with the Ambassador of Venezuela.

Resistance Heartbeat Drummers on a break during their visit to Venezuela. as Caribbean rhythms as part of international groups, and we feel more our repertoire. We were very well vibrant…we will continue the cultural received, and we have built links with revival.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 13.

Education

Cross-section of those in attendance at the launch of the Teachers’ In-Service Training Workshop. Canadian team is seated in the front row.

Teachers hold training in CTF’s 50th year

By Gloriah…

THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES TEACHERS’ UNION (SVGTU) held an Opening Ceremony to launch this year’s Teachers’ In-Service Training Workshop, at the Peace Memorial Hall on Monday, 16th July.

The SVGTU has had a long history of collaboration with the Canadian Teachers Federation (CTF), and the local Ministry of Education, in the hosting of these annual workshops.

The CTF has had a programme of overseas missions with a focus on training in education, which is currently in its fiftieth year of existence.

Upon the culmination of last year’s workshop, the prospect of the activity’s continuation in 2012 looked very grim, as a result of serious financial decline from donor agencies.

Workshop partner, the CTF, also confessed that they had been facing cutbacks but, according to leader of the CTF training team, Ms. Lina Radziunas, they were this year, still able to sponsor 13 workshops in 13 countries, including SVG. Mr. Vibert Lampkin, PRO of the SVGTU, spoke of his organization’s persistence in realizing funding, outlining that their efforts were rewarded with a number of new partners coming on board: the European Union (EU); the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF); and Macmillan Publishers. The Ministry of Education has been a partner for a number of years.

Remarks The Opening Ceremony heard remarks endorsing the training workshops. Featured speaker, Minister of Education, Hon. Girlyn Miguel, reminded that SVG “is our

heritage,” and everything must be done to look after it.

“The development of our human resources is critical to the development of our nation,” she said.

Mr. Kenneth Douglas, Manager BNTF, gave the good news that their coming on board this year will specifically see involvement in the Early Childhood Programme, to wit the training of pre-school teachers.

This programme will continue for three years, after which these teachers will receive special certification.

Mr. Ezekiel Richards, Macmillan representative, left the audience with the equation: quality education equals quality books from Macmillan.

Mr. Ray Laborde, 1st Vice President of the SVGTU, told of the increased membership since the new Executive was instituted. He spoke of the programmes and issues which his Union intends to put on the front burner: “We have in mind to open up issues — the long overdue 3% raise and the reinstatement of the three teachers who suffer because they have a different political ideology.” Laborde went on to make the bold statement, “Reinstate these teachers or face the consequence!”

The Opening Ceremony culminated with the planting of a tree on the compound of the St. Vincent Boys Grammar School (BGS). Team Leader Radziunas expressed her honour and delight to be donating a tree to a school which has hosted the programme over the years. She then handed over a poster of a tree on which the names of every volunteer trainer, over their fifty years of existence, were written.

Frank Jones, Principal of the BGS, thanked the delegation for their donation, and committed to future assistance for the programme.

Girlyn Miguel, Minister of Education, delivered the feature address in which she reiterated the importance of human resource development.

Lina Radziunas, leader of the CTF training team, and Ray Laborde, 1st Vice President of the SVGTU, were involved in the tree-planting exercise.

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14. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Carnival makers: Kenlyn produces elegance Kenlyn is very tall in stature, wears her locks in a Editor’s Note: THE VINCENTIAN variety of elegant hairstyles, is pleased to bring readers the and carries a constant smile second in a series of features on on her face. She connotes an some of those ‘behind-theair of a simple woman. scenes’ persons.

Kenlyn’s simple Kenlyn Clouden is a appearance, however, greatly seamstress, dress designer belies her talents. She is an and garment decorator. She exceptional dress designer and operates a small business in garment producer who has the George McIntosh Market been involved behind the in Paul’s Avenue. scenes in the production of gorgeous gowns for many of the rural carnival beauty shows, here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

By Gloriah…

Getting a start In an exclusive interview with THE VINCENTIAN, Kenlyn gave a background to her abilities.

She explained that she began to experiment with the sewing of clothes at the age of fifteen. She had been sewing Kenlyn Clouden, busy at her school uniforms before shop in the George Mc Intosh securing a job with prominent Market, turns out clothing for local designer, Mrs. Patrice both males and females.

Though these have brought her much acclaim, it is the number and quality of Evening Wear gowns which she has designed and produced, that has been outstanding.

Kenlyn proudly produced a picture of her very first gown worn by Ms. Eucille Joseph, in the Ms. SVG Pageant in 2001.

Since then, every single year, Kenlyn has sewn a gown for a beauty pageant.

Her concentration has been on the rural pageants, as, according to her, many chaperones in the bigger shows, discourage their contestants from using her as a seamstress. This has not deterred her, however, as she continues to outfit those who believe in her.

This year, she created a record, designing and Evening gown success producing some 13 gowns for Kenlyn produces casual and rural carnival: five for the pageant held at the formal clothes, bridal gowns, Buccament Government men’s suits, and uniforms, School; 3 in the Miss North both for school and work.

Reddock. Here, she quickly progressed from doing small tasks like hemming and trimming to the awesome task of cutting. “For Patrice,” she said with a chuckle, “once you could cut, you were a seamstress.” She stayed there for two years.

Kenlyn then migrated to Trinidad and Tobago, where she continued to pursue her trade. She set up a business there, similar to the one she runs in the Plaza now.

Business was very good, and she took the opportunity to learn a variety of techniques in cutting, sewing and decorating. After some twenty years, she returned home, bringing with her a particular expertise which has since defined her work.

Windward pageant; and two each in the Miss Barrouallie, Miss Belair, and Miss P’tani pageants.

One of her gowns has won Best Evening Wear in every rural carnival, except in Bequia.

Kenlyn is interested in Karla Gellizeau, sharing her Miss West St. George 2012, skills with showcases one the youth, and now has of Clouden’s designs. as her apprentice, Mr. Jamal Jacobs, a young man whom she describes as a talented designer and a good decorator.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 15.

News

Arabesque colours with dance

by GLORIAH… The website About.com defines colour as ‘the element of art that is produced when light, striking an object, is reflected back to the eye’.

For colour to be produced then, there is a necessity for light, objects and visibility.

From these, the properties of hue, intensity and value are seen. This is exactly what was supplied at the Peace Memorial Hall last weekend, Saturday, 21st and Sunday 22nd, July.

but so were the moves.

Solo pieces like ‘Pieces of Me’ by Rhiana Jack and ‘Colourless’ by Godwin Charles, were tastefully convincing and had many among the audience balancing on the edge of their seats, while the tints changed and produced either a unified sway, or simply a quiet acceptance among other sections of the audience.

Dance defines colour It was the occasion of the Arabesque Dance Company’s presentation of ‘Colour Me Dance’. The Solo “Pieces of me” by Rhianna group, into Jack. its fifth year of existence, was able to give ‘colour’ its focus, Dancers presenting to its nightly audience the hues, The entire package intensity, and value of comprised a total of colour, through a sixty-five dancers. These repertoire of dance. were divided into Dance became colour. Toddlers, Peewees, It extracted the Juniors, Intermediate emotions, romance, and Seniors. serenity, festivity and The terrific Toddlers fantasy, to name a few, captivated the audience that colour our daily with their two pieces: lives, and touched them ‘Pure Innocence’ and up with hues and ‘Glamour Tots’; while the intensity. Not only were Peewees followed up with the costumes colourful, ‘Hit the Lights’ and ‘Let Loose’. They took colour to a whole new level, giving brightness to their routines, even when parts of their sequence were sometimes forgotten.

The Juniors, Intermediate and Seniors, together, did a total of thirteen dances, including a Grand Finale.

The audience was again treated to variations of colour with Seniors “Cell Block Tango”.

dance movements to a range of musical genres including ‘Rhythm and Blues’, ‘Latin’, ‘Classical’, and all the way to the ‘Soca’ and ‘Dancehall’.

The Seniors opened the Juniors “Let’s Get Loud” door to another hue when they performed Colour me dance ‘Congolese’, the derivative of an African All in all, ‘Colour Me presentation.

Dance’ turned out to be an interesting

representation of colour through dance. It applied the aesthetic to the viewers’ appreciation, and gave hints of the

variety of exciting directions into which dance in St. Vincent and the Grenadines could possibly go.

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20. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Godfrey ÂBobbyÊ Fraser

(May 27th 1942 – July 15th, 2012)

Eulogy - delivered on July 24th, 2012 at St. George’s Cathedral Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Mrs. Janice Fraser, Andrew, Nicole, Antoinette, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, numerous friends, relatives, colleagues, acquaintances of Bobby Fraser, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon.

Today, we gather here to pay our last respects to the memory of Godfrey ‘Bobby’ Fraser, and in putting together this tribute to the life and works of this great son of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I had to pause for a while to come to grips with the awesome responsibility that I had taken on.

And in order to do some semblance of justice to the character and personality of this outstanding ‘Bottom Town’ man, I had to enlist the assistance of my good friend, and Bobby’s good friend, Cyp Neehall.

We set about first to compile a Biography by listing the activities that we knew Bobby was involved in; that list contained forty-seven (47) line items. So I said: “Cyp boy, all we have to do is go into the church, read out the list, make some brief comments on his cultural and sporting activities, and we good.”

Cyp said to me, “You could do that; just don’t associate my name with that.”

So I was like, “Man, except it was something to do with his job — for which he was paid a salary — or something to do with his church, Bobby was not any formal person so…”

And Cyp said, “Then is time formal be added to that list,” and so we proceeded to write.

coach of the Richmond Hill Government School in the then Primary Schools Cricket Competition, winning two championships in the early 1960s.

Later he became a member of the much sought after trio of cricket scorers at regional and international games when they were played here.

The other two members of that trio were St. Aubyn Seymour and statistician Hugh Drakes, both having pre-deceased him. With Drakes, Bobby designed a special score sheet which gave at a glance, all the details of action on the field. I am not certain whether it is still in use today.

Despite his obvious dedication to providing background support to the on field action in many sporting disciplines, it was within the cultural realm that Bobby is better known.

His writing credits

Earlier, I referred to a list of fortyseven (47) line items in which Bobby was actively involved. A sample reading of that list will go something like this: * Teacher * Sportsman * Sports organizer * Sports writer for radio and newspaper (including THE VINCENTIAN) * News reporter and Editor * Playwright (radio, stage, television) * Short Story writer * Composer (of Calypsoes and other The early years songs) * Calypso Tent Organizer (Founding Godfrey ‘Bobby’ Fraser was born on member of the first modern day May 27th 1942 to Olive Lewis and Calypso tent) Lyle Fraser in Rose Place, commonly * Masman known as ‘Bottom Town’. He grew up * Steelband enthusiast there, where he came in contact and * Theatre. Drama Consultant interacted with many of the * Domino Fanatic — His brother Ken outstanding personalities who ‘PG” Lewis ensured that he got to and emerged out of the community. from those Saturday domino limes.

Bobby developed an early love for That is just a sample of the range of sports, and displayed an exceptional the man’s involvement. ability at the high jump. The sandy One item on that list refers to beach of the “Bay Side’ (Bay Street) Bobby’s play writing skill which will, where every Rose Place child in itself, contribute an extensive list of frequented in those days, was the ideal titles of its own. Although he was training ground. renowned as a writer of radio dramas, Cricket, a bit of football and basket he also made his contributions to stage ball also featured in his athletic and television. forays; but it was at cricket that he His radio credits include: ‘Life with made his mark in sports, first as a Mabel’ and ‘The courting of Beatrice’,

both of which he co-wrote with Chester Rogers; ‘Leroy’; ‘In the Spirit of McIntosh’; In the Spirit of Chatoyer’; ‘In the Spirit of Nellie Ibo’; ‘The Road to Freedom’; and several other shorter pieces including his epic short story ‘The Obeah Man’.

His TV writings include: ‘They need you more’; ‘The Right way’; and a three-part serial for the Ministry of Social Affairs in the mid 1990s which, somehow, was never aired.

And his stage credits include this country’s presentations at CARIFESTA in 1992 and 1995 (‘As the Sun Rises’), both hosted by Trinidad and Tobago.

Bobby’s passion for the Theatre Arts was as strong as his passion for life itself, and he willingly shared both with the people of this country.

As far as his association with radio is concerned, he did not only write dramas for that medium, he worked with radio as a news editor, reporter and occasional sports news broadcaster. In the early years of retirement, he was a member of the Board of Directors of at the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).

So, with all these activities and more to come, one could easily conclude that this man loved the limelight, perhaps reveled in it. NOT SO!!!!

Dedication to family To the contrary, Bobby loathed being the man up front and, particularly in his latter years, succeeded through his very subtle form of coercion, to get others to present his ideas to the public, including yours truly. Perhaps in my case, he knew it was absolutely not a problem but a pleasure.

Yet, in the myriad of attributes and involvement that characterized my dear friend and colleague, perhaps the most telling thing I remember about Bobby is/was his commitment and devotion first to his family, then to his friends.

Whenever we had a project to work on, Bobby always insisted that Saturdays were out for him, since he would want to travel with his wife ‘Kay’ to Byrea, Layou or wherever she would be doing inspections, or holding meetings and discussions as part of her job responsibilities.

Hear him: “My wife need the company! I am not going to leave her to travel through some of those Godforsaken places all by herself.. all yo dey mus be crazy!”

And you know, that man had a voice, so even if you wanted to raise an objection, you restrained yourself because you didn’t want to hear that bellowing voice in your head, especially if there was a hint of anger in it.

True to himself, he described his voice as his best available form of defence, since physical persuasion was neither a preferred nor an acceptable option for him in his later years.

You see, Bobby considered himself something of a rebel with a very short fuse, in his youthful days. So, what changed him? In his own words: “My professional training and definitely my marriage.”

Following his marriage to Janice,

whom we fondly refer to as ‘Kay’, the ensuing years noticeably mellowed his temperament.

The union produced a son, Dr. Andrew Fraser; a daughter Antoinette, a Forensic Scientist; and adopted daughter Nicole Lawrence, Banker and Image Consultant in St. Kitts/Nevis.

There was no conversation with Bobby without some reference to his wife and children, and he was prepared to sacrifice all that he had, which was not very much, to ensure that his children were well cared for.

According to some of his close boyhood friends, Bobby made it clear that, “you could tell me or do me anything, but my family? Hmm! Interfere with my family? Boy… .”

So where did this man find the time and space for the numerous civic activities and organizations in which he was involved? Lest you forget, the list referred to earlier contained fortyseven (47) items. And in addition to those items already listed here, Bobby was a founding member of the SVG National Youth Council. He did so along with a group of church youth that included Oscar Allen, Cameron James, Stanley Campbell and Dr. Jeffery Daisy.

Other organizations with which Bobby was associated included Vinsave, The Carnival Development Committee (now a Corporation), The Anglican Church Council, SVG Domino Association, The St. Vincent Players and the Salvation Army Volunteers. And the list could go on for another episode or so.

His life, our life Allow me as I bring this tribute to a close, to muse a little.

Everyone’s story is simple — a case of ‘What is? But Bobby’s story, while it is his own, because of the person he was, it is also uniquely our own.

Our stories are intrinsically connected to each other. His story, too, is connected to me — physically in my DNA and my genes, but also in the way I sometimes think or approach a problem.

In fact, it is because of him that I exist at all. His story is also connected in my spirit — the way I am connected to the world and what may lie beyond.

He is the reason for my strength and my bonds with family and colleagues as varied as the colours.

Everyone has his own life to live; you can’t live someone else’s for them, nor die their own death. But I swear I hear Bobby saying: ‘Though life seems harder to live some days and nothing will be the same, there is still a life to live, a story to be written.’

Thank you, my friend, for a life well lived. Thank you for my story and all of our stories. Thank you for being you. God speed.

David Darkie Williams Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Although it does look promising, be careful not to overextend yourself or you will lose in the long run.

Opportunities to get together with people in powerful positions could help you get ahead. Your partner may be reluctant to tell you how they feel. Put your efforts into job advancement.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) First find out if they're married.

Knowledge can be acquired if you listen. Keep your thoughts and opinions to yourself and you won't get dragged into an unsavory debate. Don't use the interstate as a racetrack.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Helping children may be rewarding and challenging. You can make excellent investments if you are in the right place at the right time. Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections. Go out with friends or family.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You can make amends by taking them somewhere special. You will have a tendency to put on pounds. Your personal life will be disrupted if you have been too busy with business. You may be offered opportunities that will result in a higher earning potential.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You can make reasonable bids on real estate or large items for your home.

Plan a trip to the country or take a drive to the beach. Trips will be exciting. You may be tired of working for someone else.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Children will keep you busy. Social gatherings will be conducive to meeting new potential mates. You will meet a person who may turn out to be more than just a friend. Try to join groups of interest such as ballroom dance classes or perhaps an internet organization.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may have the energy to clear up that mound of paperwork facing you.

You need to challenge yourself.

Consider selling your homemade crafts at the flea market. You can persuade even the toughest opponents to think your way.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will be appreciated for the competence you exhibit and for taking on responsibilities. You may have been trying to do too much, leaving yourself exhausted and open to colds and infections. Go out with friends and avoid the situation on the home front. You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Abstain from getting involved with married individuals. A passionate party for two might be just the remedy. Your boss won't be too thrilled if you leave things unfinished. Use your energy wisely.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your changing philosophies may lead you into new circles and open doors that will give you a unique outlook on life.

Remain calm and you'll shine. Passion should be your goal. You will benefit through hidden assets and property investments. You must be sure not to be frivolous, because as the saying goes, easy come, easy go.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don't make a move; your confusion has caused this dilemma and you are best to back away and reassess the situation.

Make sure that you get legal matters checked out thoroughly. Opportunities to upgrade your living standards will come through your lover or through joint financial investments. Don't reveal anything about your personal life that could be used adversely.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Problems with ear, nose, or the throat are likely. Relationships will be emotional this week. Evasion is likely if you aren't direct about your feelings. You will need to do a lot of research if you wish to get to the bottom of things.

ACROSS

products (2 wds.)

1. “X-Files” org. 51. South of Can. 4. Linoleum 52. “__ got a lot cleaner of nerve!”

7. Remnant 53. Sleuth, for 10. Murmur short lovingly 11. Alpine song 54. Agt. 55. Narc’s org.

13. Shad 56. “Try __ product might…” (2 14. Association wds.)

17. Exploit 18. Indented DOWN places 19. Inclines 22. Forty winks 1. Broadcast watchdog 23. Scrap of agcy. food 2. Sports fan’s 24. “__ jeer Lonesome 3. Charged I particle Could Cry” 4. “Ugly Betty” (2 wds.) magazine 27. Chills 5. Dedicated cham poem pagne 6. For each 31. Postpone 34. Catch sight 7. Rock’s Clapton of 8. Niche 35. Ignoble 9. Cozy retreats 36. Melodic 11. Corporal’s syllable affirmative 37. 1860 (2 wds.) alliance 12. Singer (abbr.)

Cantrell 39. Is defeated 15. Gaiety 41. Head 16. Shot made covering off a re44. Hubbub bound 45. Some (hyph.)

HewlettPackard

19. Easy stride 20. Over 22. “__ chance!”

(2 wds.)

25. Talking doll word 26. Opposite of NNW 28. House pets 29. To be (Fr.) 30. Continent separators 32. Repeating series 33. Obedient (2 wds.)

38. Nimble 40. Canadian prov.

41. Slander

42. Box 43. Memo letters 44. Opera performer 46. Protective compart ment

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 21.

47. Regret 48. Timetable abbreviation 49. Dweller (abbr.)

50. School subj.

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22. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Festival

Canouan carnival

Miss East St. George - Jeanetta Richards

- Dache Simmons

Miss North Windward - Raneasha Lorraine

Miss North Leeward - Kenesha Edwards

Miss Southern Grenadines - Kellecia Telemaque Miss P’Tani - Leeonney Bentick

Miss South Leeward - Melcia Antoine

Miss West St. George - Karla Gellizeau

The 14th Annual Canouan Carnival gets going today, Friday July 27, with a grand Carnival Lime.

Activities will continue on July 28 with a Soca Explosion, and the Miss 2012 Rural SVG Pageant on July 29.

July 30 will be given over to Night Mas, and a Wet fete is scheduled for July 31.

Activities climax on August 1 with J’Ouvert and a Street Vibz session in the evening.

The contestants in this year’s Miss Rural SVG are: Miss South Windward — Kimberly Benn, Miss North Windward — Raneasha Lorraine, Miss East St. George — Jeanetta Richards, Miss West St. George — Karla Gellizeau, Miss P’ Tani — Leeonney Bentick, Miss South Leeward — Mellica Antoine, Miss North Miss South Windward - Kimberly Leeward — Keneisha Edwards, Miss Barrouallie — Dache Simmons and home Benn girl Miss South Southern Grenadines — Kellicia Telemaque. Miss Jovonne John the Canouan Carnival is organized and is the 2011 Miss Rural SVG. Once again managed by Club Nuevo.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 23.

News

Martiniquan students visit

Sea Operations Starlift has accepted an invitation to perform in New York, USA.

Starlift heading for New York SEA OPERATIONS STARLIFT Steel Orchestra is heading for New York.

The Orchestra, winners of the local Panorama on 22 occasions out of thirty appearances, has been invited to perform at the Biennial Exhibition hosted by Club St. Vincent Inc., New York, USA.

The Exhibition features displays of a variety of Vincentian products and services, and coincides with the Annual Labour Day West Indian carnival parade in parade in Brooklyn, New York.

Plans are also in place to have Starlift perform at the Annual Caribbean Carnival J’Ouvert

street parade, part of the West Indian carnival activities.

According to manager of the Starlift, Errol Sutherland, the entourage to New York is expected to include, “twelve of our best pan players who we are assured will give us very creditable performances.”

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has once again been a host for Martiniquan students, through the collaboration of the Alliance Française SVG and the F.O.L Martiniquan students enjoying (Fédération des Carnival Monday Ouvres Laïques).

This year, F.O.L, in association with the Alliance Française, sent 12 students, along with two chaperones, to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in order for them to learn English and experience some of the culture and history of the islands.

The students lived with Vincentian families for two fun-filled and educational weeks, and they attended English classes at the Alliance Française, visited several historical and natural sites which included Fort Charlotte, the Botanical Gardens, the Vermont Nature Trail and Fort Duvernette, Bequia and Dark View Falls.

They also took part in some Carnival activities.

Vanessa Demirciyan, Director Alliance Francais SVG, said in a release that, “Having these students here has been a great experience as it always is, and we have been able to learn as much from them as they have learned from us.”

To continue this camaraderie between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Martinique, the Alliance Française hopes to organize student exchanges, where Vincentian students can visit Martinique in turn, and experience some of what that country has to offer.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 25.

People

Vincentian student receives Honour PEOPLE OF ALL AGES do much to make this country proud.

Diandra Matthews, a Vincentian student living in Cherokee, Alabama, USA, has made her parents and country proud.

The daughter of Brighton resident Doreen Matthews, Diandra has received an awarded for her stellar academic performance. The United States Achievement Academy has awarded Matthews with the honour of being listed as a Student of Excellence in Mathematics.

Whitney Becker, a teacher at Diandra’s school, Mars Hill Bible School, noted her keen abilities in the subject and nominated her for

this award leading to her being honoured in the National United States Achievement Academy’s Official Yearbook.

She also earned the President’s Award from her high school and is a graduate of the Youth Leadership of the Shoals programme, sponsored by the Shoals Chamber of Commerce.

To add to her list Diandra Matthews is making of accolades, she has a name for herself and also earned the country. prestigious Bronze and Silver awards THE VINCENTIAN from the Girl Scouts of congratulates Diandra on America. her successes thus far James Stephenson and and looks forward to Lucky Stephenson of many great things from Cherokee are Diandra’s her in the future. (KC) Guardians.

Nutrition Unit Summer programme commences ON MONDAY, JULY 16, 2012, some thirty (30) primary school students began their participation in the inaugural Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Nutrition Unit summer programme.

The programme was launched officially on Thursday 12th July, 2012 at the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment conference room.

It carries the theme: ‘Nutrition in our Children for a Healthy Nation’.

Nutritionist Mrs. Andrea Robin stated the objectives of the summer programme inclusive of: enhancing the knowledge of nutrition and the application of such knowledge for the maintenance of good health; and for children to understand the relationship of good nutrition and good

health.

Mrs. Robin said it was very important to have projects and policies that guide children in this area. She commended Mrs. Hazel-Ann Hadaway who came up with the idea two years ago.

Community Nutrition Officer and Programme coordinator, Mrs. HazelAnn Hadaway, said she has observed a growing trend of unhealthy eating habits among young children. To this end, the Nutrition summer programme is targeting children ages 8-11 years.

Hadaway hopes that the information given to the children will influence adjustments in their diet with the support and guidance of their parents.(KH)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012 . 27.

Four Vincentians in WindwardsÊ Squad FOUR VINCENTIANS HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN A 14-MEMBER SQUAD TO TAKE PART IN THE 2012 Regional West Indies Under-19, three-day cricket tournament, scheduled for Barbados from July 28 to August 16 .The Vincentian players are fast bowlers Ray Jordan and Shaquille Browne, off spinner Kenneth Dember and left handed middle order batsman Gidron Pope.Jerlani Robinson of Dominica will lead the team and he will have St Lucian Larry Edwards as his deputy.

The rest of the squad reads: Sherman Lewis, Keone George, Junior Henry, Roland Cato, Taryck Gabriel, Ray Jordan, Gian Benjamin, Gidron Pope, left hand Shaquille Browne, Preston Mc batsman Sween, Kenneth Dember, Tonis Simon, Chris Greenidge Hollis Blair, Gidron Pope. and Kimron Quashie.

Four reserves have also The team was selected been named in Dylan Joseph, following a rain hit Windward

Shaquille Browne, right arm fast bowler Islands tournament in which Grenada emerged champions with 22 points, followed by

Ray Jordan, right arm fast bowler

Kenneth Dember, off spinner

SVG on 20, St Lucia on 10 and West Indies Under-19 tournament will commence host Dominica on 6 points, in that order. The 50 over-a-side August 19 and climax on August 29. (I.B.A.ALLEN)

Bequia Basketball: Rising Stars stay on course to repeat DEFENDING FIRST DIVISION CHAMPIONS OF THE VITA MALT Bequia Basketball Association Basketball Tournament, Bequia Tech Rising Stars, have made it two from two thus far in the 2012 tournament.

In last Sunday’s match up, Rising Stars defeated Warriaz 60 to 37, with Gemey Richardson registering 17 points for the winners, and Keon Skinner leading for Warriaz with 14.

In their first outing last week Wednesday, Bequia Tech Rising Stars got past Gladiatorz 48 to 41, as they opened their effort to repeat last year’s performance.

Like Rising Stars, Duke also has two from two.

Duke recorded an 82-56 surpassing of East Blazers. Ishama McKree cranked up 26 points for Duke, and for East Blazers, Shavia Farrell poured in 16 points.

Jonas King was the hot hand for Duke with 25 points and 20 rebounds in his team’s dismantling of Warriaz 75-57. The leading scorers for Warriaz were Tyson Joseph and Keon Skinner with 14 points each.

The two unbeaten teams Rising Stars and Duke were set to face off last Wednesday at the Clive Tannis hard court in Bequia,, as they try to crack each other’s dominance.

In other results, Hawks defeated Dragons 29 to 9 in the Courts SVG

Limited Under 16 Division.

Also in that division, Titans stopped Dragons 22 to 17. Titans:’ leading goal scorer was Sydian Warner with 10 points, and for Dragons, Shemar Douglas had 7 points.

Also Young Wizards recorded a 26-22 triumph over Hornets. Leading the way for Young Wizards was Jermaine John who had 12 points and 10 steals. The leading scorer for Hornets was Lennox Ince with 13 points.

Staying in the Under16 category, Hornets beat Hawks 26 to 18, led

by Lennox Ince’s 12 points and Young Wizards saw off Dragons 28 to 18. Denilson Lewis had 14 points for the victors.

Defending Champions Bequia Tech Rising Stars begin their 2012 outing with successive In the Second Division, victories.

East Blazers stopped Warriaz, 64 to 58.

And, Blazin Heat registered a 53-44 Rising Stars Two. Also Wizards defeated Young Duke triumph over Rising Stars Two. For Five teams are in the First Division, 68 to 46, as Xavaughn Dennie Blazin Heat, Mark Browne had 20 four are in the Second Division and six recorded 16 points for Wizards and the points, but it was Sharas Forde who are seeking top honours in the Underleading scorer for Young Duke was had a game high of 22 points for 16 Division.

Romano Browne with 13.

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Sports

NATIONAL PLAYER, all rounder Alston Bobb, took career best match figures to help propel front runners Victors One to a commanding victory over OLA Boutique Radcliffe, in a last weekend match in the NLA Premier Division cricket competition.

Bobb grabbed match

figures of 11 wickets for 76 runs and hit 30 to help his team to a 10wicket victory, at Arnos Vale 2.

Victors 1 batted first and posted 209: Danson Andrews top scored with 47, Kieron Cottoy made 32, Alston Bobb hit 30, Donwell Hector added 29

and Atticus Browne and Miles Bascombe contributed 24 each.

Dyke Cato captured three for 89 and Jomo Toney took two for 67.

In Radcliffe’s first turn at the crease, they managed a mere 97 all out, Bobb working his magic with his left arm

Victoria Park comes alive with Under-20 international football, following it intense use for the annual carnival activities.

spin, to take five for 26.

His spin partner, Kieron Cottoy, took two for 19.

Radcliffe, asked to follow on, fared slightly better and closed on 155, Kingsley Joseph topscoring with 43 and Jomo Toney contributing 31.

Radcliffe found no answer to Bobb’s guile,

and the all rounder proceeded to grab six second innings wickets for 50 runs. Orlan Williams took two for 29 and Kieron Cottoy claimed took two for 31.

Set six runs to win, Victors One reached their target without loss This weekend, in the NLA Premier Division, Victors One take on Police 2 at Arnos Vale 1, while Rivals will take on Spartans at Arnos Vale Two. In the NLA First Alston Bobb took match Division, Belmont will clash with Log Masters figures of 11 for 76 and made 30 runs. at Stubbs, Unique Warriors oppose Bryden North Union.

Frutee Youths at Buccament, and Sion Hill I.B.A.ALLEN take on Smashers at

Referees widen their knowledge

SVG to host U-20 World Cup qualifiers THE VICTORIA PARK will host Group IV of the Caribbean Football Union men’s Under-20 qualifiers of the CONCACAF group of the 2013 World Cup. Host team St Vincent and the Grenadines will oppose Suriname, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

On Wednesday 8th August, St Vincent and the Grenadines meet Suriname in the second match of the double header, with Trinidad and Tobago facing Guyana in the first encounter.

OVER TWENTY FOOTBALL REFEREES will conclude today, Friday 27th July, a five-day training programme hosted by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).

The course was aimed at bringing referees and assistant referees up to speed with the recent developments as instituted by football governing body, FIFA. Also, the executive of the SVGFF is using the course to compile a data base of officials for future training and in the immediate future, to provide for local competitions including the National Lotteries Authority national club championships which are scheduled to start on Sunday 19th August at the Victoria Park.

In attendance at the course were seasoned referees, those who are relatively new to the sport and new entrants to officiating.

Among the course outline were topics such as the laws of the game, referees’ techniques, duties and guidelines for referees, the classification of the various types of challenges, fouls and misconducts among others.

The course involved theoretical sessions, along with video analyses, practical sessions and quizzes and trivia.

Several plenary discussions were also planned for the duration of the course which began last Monday at the SVGFF office on Bentinck Square.

Conducting the course were Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois and Andrew Bramble, who recently represented St Vincent and the Grenadines in a referees workshop in St Kitts.

Francois intimated at the opening that the SVGFF is especially targeting female referees and referee assistants to come forward and become certified as opportunities are there for them.

Pete Morris, coach of the On Friday 10th August, Trinidad and SVG Under-20 football team.

Tobago face Suriname in the first match of the evening, with St Vincent and the Grenadines meeting Guyana in the second match.

The group climaxes on Sunday 12th August, when neighbours Guyana and Suriname square off, to be followed by St Vincent and the Grenadines opposing Trinidad and Tobago.

St Vincent and the Grenadines best showing in this competition was in 2009 when they narrowly missed out on a place in the CONCACAF Finals, after placing second to Jamaica when the Caribbean Football Union final was hosted here, and also included Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

St Vincent and the Grenadines defeated the Dominican Republic and Haiti but lost 2-0 to Jamaica.

In a playoff against Honduras for the final place in the eight-team final in CONCACAF, St Vincent and the Grenadines lost 3-1.

In 2010, St Vincent and the Grenadines lost the home and away tie to Trinidad and Tobago and was ousted from the competition from the first round.

The current St Vincent and the Grenadines under-20 team is under the watchful eyes of Pete Morris and Wade Jackson.

The CONCACAF U-20 Championship will take place in Mexico from 18th February to 2nd March 2013, and will serve as the qualification tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2013.

The top four teams will qualify for the 2013 FIFA Course facilitators Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois (left) U-20 World Cup in Turkey. and Andrew Bramble.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 29.

Sports

Zefal Bailey shines in 40 miler

Backlash defeat Winterset Ball Beaters

BACKLASH OF ROSE BANK defeated Winterset Ball Beaters of Fitz Hughes by 19 runs in last weekend lone match, as the 2012 VINLEC North Leeward Cricket Tournament began in earnest.

Backlash were dismissed for 98 off 16.1 overs.

Nolan Delpesche contributed 25, while Ronique LaBorde chipped in with 16. Kesroy DeBique took 3 for 13, Fitzmore Edwards 2 for 14 and Kenrick Westfield 2 for 28.

Winterset Ball Beaters were dismissed for 79 off 12.5 overs. Kenvil Samuel scored 27 and Festus Murray 23. Ronique LaBorde took 3 for 0 and Shaman Hooper 3 for 15.

Eleven teams are participating in this year’s tournament and are divided into two zones.

Zone A comprises: Troumaca United, Police, Backlash, Winterset Ball Beaters and Peto Stars.

Zone B comprises: Future Legends, Troumaca Starlight, Ruddy’s Electrical, Ajuba, Somerset and Sharpes United.

Two matches are planned for this Saturday, but no match is scheduled for Sunday 29 July as the organizers of the tournament will be engaged in a fundraising event. The North Leeward Sports has put on an excursion from Chateaubelair to Canouan.

The tournament will resume on August 4th. The defending champions are Troumaca United.

(Contributed)

Learning experience for Under-19 females DESPITE NOT WINNING a match in the invitational Trinidad and Tobago Under-19 Cricket Development Tournament, coach of the team, Clayton Barnett, believes it was an all round learning experience for the SVG Representative Under-19 female team.

He was particularly pleased that his team achieved at least one of its objectives, that being to bat through a full twenty overs, which the team did against the Trinidad and Tobago national team and a Trinidad and Tobago representative team.

As far as challenges were concerned, Barnett cited the following as ‘new territory’ for the SVG girls: wearing helmets; the 30 yards circle restriction; the

importance of running between the wickets; picking up singles; coping with spinning pitches.

These areas and more, the coach hopes to address in the training sessions with the team as they persist along their developmental path.

Barnett,who has been working with female cricketers for some time now, believes the West Indies Cricket Board should endorse a tournament of this nature, in an effort to strengthen women’s cricket in the region.

He also called on local Boards to organize more competitions and to target the players with potential from the schools and put them into training programmes.

Clayton Barnett, coach of SVG Under-19 representative team.

In addition to SVG and the two Trinidad and Tobago teams, other teams involved in the Invitational Tournament were the Americas and St Lucia.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Representatives of SVG Under-19 Female Cricket team.

ZEFAL BAILEY IMPROVED on his previous race when he took the Barefoot Charters 10 laps cycling road race last Sunday afternoon.

The race was staged using the Villa to Arnos Vale Roundabout route, and Zefal, the youngest of the Bailey trio of cyclists, won in a time of 2 hours 24 minutes 0.07 seconds.

The previous weekend, he had to settle for second place in the Davy Spaghetti- Energy race, when Cammie Adams claimed the 15 laps, 49.5 mile event, which used the Langley Park junction to the Mount Young bridge as a lap.

But in last Sunday’s race, Zefal did not have Zefal Bailey took to contend with advantage of the Adams, who had absence of the in form encountered some Cammie Adams to take problems with his last weekend’s race. bike and could not

face the starter’s orders.

Another Bailey, Shimano, who suffered a crash in the Davy’s Spaghetti - energy race, returned last Sunday to place second in 2 hours 30 minutes 55 seconds.

Holding on to third, as he did the weekend before, was Lucky Antrobus in a time of 2 hours 30 minutes 56 seconds.

The three finishers received prizes from Barefoot Charters.

The road races take a break for a few weeks, as president of the SVG Cycling Union, Trevor Bailey, the main man behind the events, will be out of the state.

Bailey is expected to attend the London Olympics in his capacity of president of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee.

30. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2012. 31.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

JULY 27, 2012

by KENVILLE HORNE WHILE THE BARBADOS media and the Royal Barbados Police Force have reported successful drugs bursts on Tuesday 17th and Thursday 19th July, one related story remains untold.

That story concerns the whereabouts of Vincentian national, Kelroy ‘Bleek’ Hacksaw.

A report from the Royal Barbados Police Force stated that a drug burst was conducted at sea, about 6 nautical miles off North Point, St. Lucy, Barbados, around 2am on Tuesday 17th July.

The operation was conducted by the Barbados Coast Guard, and involved the interception of a pirogue on which was found 33 bags of cannabis, weighing 1,394 pounds. Two Barbadians and two Vincentians were arrested and charged.

Those arrested were Wayne Ricardo Worrell, 38, and Anderson Bridgeman, 35, of Belleplaine Housing area, St Andrew, Barbados, and Vincentian nationals Haynes Harry, 37, of Barrouallie, and Alwyn Ross, 39, of Calliaqua.

The men have been jointly charged for possession, possession with intent to supply, trafficking and

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importation of cannabis within the territorial waters of Barbados.

One escaped An official report stated that the pirogue later sank, but not before another male occupant of the boat escaped.

THE VINCENTIAN was reliably informed that the male who is reported to have escaped is Vincentian national Kellroy ‘Bleek’ Hackshaw, whose whereabouts, up to press time, remain unknown.

A female relative of Hackshaw told THE VINCENTIAN that he “did not go to export Marijuana but rather to collect some monies that was owing to him.”

She said that she had received word from Barbados that Hackshaw had “jumped from the boat,” to escape arrest. She did not reveal her source of information.

“I don’t know, but since then I am unsure what happen to him. People have been telling me that he is dead,” said the family member.

Another of Hackshaw’s relatives stated that, while she believes that he might be dead, she hopes that he is alive.

Cannabis seized on one of the burst off the coast of Barbados.

She too, had received news that Hackshaw had jumped “from a speed boat but his body is yet to be found.”

She told THE VINCENTIAN that according to reports “one of the men jump off the boat to escape arrest and he maybe on the run from police. He haven’t called me since but I am praying he is somewhere alive.”

Another Vincy arrested

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Meanwhile, The Barbados Nation newspaper reported that another drug burst also took place on the night of Thursday 19th July, off Needham’s Point in St Michael.

The operation was one involving the Royal Barbados Police Force’s Drug Squad, the Barbados Coast Guard, and the Regional Security System (RSS), and resulted “in the seizure of 14 large, taped

packages of marijuana, weighing 825 pounds.”

The report went on to state that three Barbadians and one Vincentian were arrested and placed in local custody. A high-speed boat was also seized. One man was also shot in the right ankle, and remains hospitalized.

Those arrested were Barbadians Dave Browne, 33, Anthony Giles, 50, and , Stuart Simpson, 30,and Eden Carell Vincent, 33, of Layou, St Vincent.

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