FRIDAY, JULY
15, 2022
VOLUME 116, No.28
Gov’t gave no directive Page 3
www.thevincentian.com
Primus verdict today
Wake: a difference
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Page 5
EC$1.50
Tribute to Ras Oba
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Luta for New York
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BLACK SANDS PROJECT IN ÂNEW HANDSÊ?
PM AWAITING DETAILS WORD BROKE HERE EARLIER THIS week that yet again, it appeared that ownership of a significant portion of prime land in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was about to move from the hands of one set of foreign investors to another. The indication was that the Blank Sands Resort Project, that began as an undertaking of PACE Developments St. Vincent Inc., but has shown no sign of progress beyond the shells for twelve villas, was being taken over by Star8 Corp. Star8 Corporation (OTCPK: STRH), headquartered in Miami, Florida, is described as ‘a publicly-traded company with expertise in technology and eCommerce-driven solutions’. In a release carried on a number of international news agencies (e.g. finance.yahoo.com, globalnewswire.com) on Monday, Star8 Corp said that it “has signed a Letter of Intent (the “LOI”) to acquire Black Sands Resort operating under the name Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. through a plan of exchange with an expected closing in the current quarter”. However, in quick response to the ‘development’, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves moved to bring some clarity to the situation. He said on radio that he was awaiting information on the details of what had been carried by the international news agencies. He explained, though, as if to give perspective to the ‘takeover’, that what he was assured of was that with respect to the Black Sands project, “ a company has an Alien Land Holding Licence with conditions attached to that licence. “ He went on further to say that while one company can take over another, “..the operational company may well be the same company which has the alien landholding licence.” In its release, Star8 Corp said in addition, that Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. owned 45 acres of land at
Breaking ground in January 2017 for the construction of the EC$60 million Villa/Hotel Development Project – the Black Sand Resort. The party included Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (2nfd from right) and Joseph Romano, Chief Executive Officer of Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. (centre) Peter’s Hope in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and that The twelve “…construction has unfinished villas already begun on the – the only luxury Black Sands construction for Hotel, which will which Pace eventually house 450 could take some rooms, on the 45 acres responsibility. of land at this site.” Continue on page 3
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2. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Youth
Alex Chada tops the St. MartinÊs list
ALEX CHADA, 16, the son of Arab business couple Edgar and Dima Chada, was voted the top student of the Class of 2022, at the St. Martin’s Secondary School. And he was especially proud of his achievement since, as he noted, he transferred from the St. Vincent Grammar School to the SMSS while in Form 3. He had no regrets doing so. The young man entered for 9 subject areas in the 2022 CSEC. At his school’s graduation on Thursday 30th June, he was not only the valedictorian; he was also named the top student in eight subject areas: Economics, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Principle of Business, Religious Education, Information Technology and Chemistry.
Alex Chada – delivering his Valedictorian Speech which was interspersed with moments of light heartedness.
Getting down to hard work When it was time to deliver his valedictorian’s address, he prefaced it by acknowledging that he had not been a part of the SMSS journey for as long as some of his fellow graduates. But, he stressed, he witnessed that his classmates had all learned and grown in some way, as a result of the experiences at St. Martin’s Secondary School. “I began my third week at St. Martin’s with new friends and a different academic pace. I did not think the academics were difficult enough at the time, until I met the amazing teachers who began drilling those lessons into our heads. The rigorous curriculum was demanding, both online and face-to-face. Hours spent reading texts, completing neverending assignments, labs, exes, and term exams while attempting to complete syllabuses and SBAs. It was at times overwhelming. But we made it through,” the aspiring engineer told the gathering. “While being swamped with schoolwork and constantly under pressure to do better, especially coming from a different school, one of the most impactful moments for me was watching the teachers interact with one another. They not only pushed each other to do better, there was also persistence and determination behind their motivation to get us, as students, to do better as well. That’s when I recognized St. Martin’s was special, and I knew my parents and I had made the right decision to transfer,” Alex admitted.
Alex Chada – showing off his ‘silverware’ for having topped the Graduating Class of 2022 at the St. Martin’s Secondary school. up was never an option,” he explained. He recognized his teachers and other staff members for the roles they played over the years. “Ms Olaivar, you are an excellent Math teacher, the best actually, who taught us how to use the Pythagorean Theorem. I mean, I doubt many of us will ever use it in the future. But, who knows? The valedictorian said to much laughter from the audience. “Father Zess, sorry, Father Collin Jackson, our in-house Priest - custom made for SMSS. You drilled into us that we must believe in ourselves and that there is no room for self-doubt. ‘Your best at any given moment has to be enough’, you would always say. “And let me stop here to say, Biggs, Mari, Brain, you are enough! A.B.,
Mannerz, and Chapo you alone are enough! Dresha and Rich you are enough. Yes!! We are enough, and as Mr. James would say, ‘Fellas, I believe in you’,” said the young man as he showed appreciation to his friends as well.
We are on our way “So we’ve finished high school. And soon we’ll be signing each other’s yearbooks and saying our goodbyes,” Alex said directly to his mates, adding, “Hugs and tears will be exchanged. We will make every effort to stay in touch. We will go about our lives, doing our best. But, as we continue on our journey and make plans for the future, we will remember that, ‘Boys will be
boys, but St. Martin’s boys will be gentlemen’.” Alex, who has three siblings, is encouraging aspiring students to get some practice for the exams by going over past papers, studying teachers’ notes and doing some research online. He told THE VINCENTIAN that he did not study too hard since his motto is, ‘Work smart and not hard’. Asked how he overcame the pressure associated with the exams, he responded, as only he could in his characteristic jocular but telling manner, “I took cold showers.” The young man is set on continuing his studies at the SVG Community College, after which he will travel overseas to further his education. Alex’s parents as you expect, were elated by his accomplishment. His father, Edgar, told THE VINCENTIAN that he felt very good. “I am proud of my son,” said the elated father who owns a number of stores called ‘Best in Fashion’. (KH)
Recognition due Alex noted that the Roman Catholic founded institution had delivered to the students in a way that helped them to develop the courage to get rid of any self-doubts they had, giving them always a chance to start over. “It was reassuring to know that our school will never give up on us. It may have been tough at times, but giving
Members of the SMSS Graduating Class of 2022 rendered a song as part of the 2022 Graduating Ceremony.
V News 3 GovÊt gave no directive
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . 3.
“I DO NOT GET INVOLVED IN THAT!” That was as firm as the Prime Minister could get in responding to reports that Government had given directives not to broadcast the song of any individual Calypsonian. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said on radio on July 10 that his government has never resorted to action of this sort. “Even if someone were to defame me for instance, I either ignore it or I sue them,” Gonsalves said. He said that he would not tell anyone what to do but expected that a media entity or producer of a show, such as the Alvin ‘Zion I’ Dennie Carnival Development came in from the cold, Corporation (CDC), so to speak, and was a would discuss with their crowd pleaser with his lawyers what muster finger-pointing and what does not pass ‘Hypocrites’. muster. Public ire was aroused when Calypsonian Alvin ‘Zion-I’ Dennie’s performance at the Calypso Finals on July 3 was blocked on the government owned cable television station VC3. This, after he had changed some lyrics in song ‘Hypocrites’, as requested to do by the CDC. Gonsalves commented on the issue saying that he did not know the basis on which the management of VC3 made the decision not to show Zion-I’s performance, and assured that there was no directive given by the government to do so. He, however, noted that some Calypsonians deliberately sing things they know to be false. According to Gonsalves, there was an incident where a Calypsonian composed a song based on an event which occurred at the Customs and Excise Department, when cash was discovered in a television set. He explained that despite the Calypsonian
knowing all the facts, he sang that someone had been transferred from Customs because that person was the one who made the discovery, and suggested that the political powers effected the transfer because they were involved. “And I asked that Calypsonian at my office, I said, you knew the facts and why did you sing such a thing? He showed no regard for the truth, he knew the song was a lie, but he was prepared to sing it,” Gonsalves added. “They think it gives them some popularity in some sections, or they have a Prime Minister Dr. political axe to grind when Ralph Gonsalves in fact they are cowards. Those things don’t worry me. rubbished the reports that Government had If I feel you defame me, I directed VC3 not to have a right to sue or not sue you,” he concluded. (DD) telecast Zion I’s finals night’s performance.
COVID numbers to determine teachers’ fate
THE AFTERMATH OF Carnival which ended just over a week ago is expected to determine whether authorities will allow for unvaccinated teachers to return to the classroom for the new school year. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said on radio on July 10, that the days following Carnival would reveal if there was any spike in the number of COVID-19 cases. “If there is not a spike in COVID, the question arises for answer and for practical applications and implications…what the situation of those teachers in a new epidemiological situation is,” he said. Or in other words, should those teachers who refused to take the
Classrooms across SVG will remain without a number of trained teachers for a while longer. COVID-19 vaccine as was required by law, whether they should be offered to return to the classroom if they wish and under what conditions they return.
According to the Prime Minister, this question arose amid discussions pertaining to new staffing arrangements for the upcoming school year. Several teachers and other public sector workers who were deemed frontline workers were forced to leave their respective positions when they refused to be vaccinated against COVID19, as was stipulated by law. Continued from front page. that truly embodies all The St. Vincent and the elements of relaxation and Grenadines Teachers’ Union NO MENTION WAS MADE OF THE first luxury living.” (SVGTU) and the Public phase of the Pace Developments St. Long before the 2021 Service Union (PSU) are Vincent Inc. plan, i.e. the construction of advent of the COVID-19 suing the government. an initial ten of 40 luxury villas, 12 of pandemic here, The issue was not a simple which while started are still some way construction work on the one however — according to from completion. project had all but come to Gonsalves - fundamental to But Star8 Corporation, in its release, a screeching halt. This the eventual decision would assured, “Our Board of Directors is after the developers had be the advice tendered by the impressed with the vision and strategy promised initially that all Chief Medical Officer, Dr. behind this development…. we see an construction would be An artist’s impression of one of the luxury Simone Keizer-Beache, and opportunity to invest in a growing market complete within 24-30 month period. villas that was in a brochure used by Pace those entrusted by the law to with an inspired project, that will In May 2022, following a meeting provide it. to promote the pre-sale of the villas. ultimately stimulate the local economy.” with Government officials here in St. And then there was the When ground was broken back in 2017 Vincent, Joseph Romano, the principal concern about the opinion of one be done or that we do a full forensic for the Black Sand Project, Joseph in Pace Developments promised a restart audit of the project up to the time of its parents and vaccinated Romano, Chief Executive Officer of Pace of construction by July. members of staff, Gonslaves ‘sale’.” Developments St. Vincent Inc. told One observer of the developing The Canadian firm Pace Developments said. Vincentians and the world, that the situation reached out to THE Gonsalves said that it was St. Vincent Inc. purchased from the EC$60 million Villa/Hotel Development VINCENTIAN with the following just a matter of time before Government some 36 acres of land that Project “… will feature a 5-star luxury comment: “Maybe construction will evidence of a COVID-19 once comprised the Mt. Wynn/Peter’s hotel, with condos, a casino, a medical spa resume in July under the ‘new owners’, Hope estate, for EC$7 million, considered spike becomes evident. (DD) and its own private marina. … The but whatever the case, it would serve this to have been ‘a deal of the century’. finished product is going to be a resort country’s best image if we either demand
Black Sands project in Ânew handsÊ? PM awaiting details
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4. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Courts
First time offender gets sound advice farms and steal their animals and crops.” SENIOR Magistrate Rickie Burnett The youngster appeared not to has warned a 17-year-old first time have the slightest clue as to what offender that if he doesn’t make a the Magistrate was speaking change now, he would end up in jail. about, prompting Burnett to Appearing at the Kingstown conclude that the teenager does Magistrate’s Court on Monday, not read or listen to the news. the defendant - Leron Glasgow of “If you don’t make a change, Vermont - pleaded guilty to you will end up in a certain place, stealing one sack containing 46 and that place is jail,” the avocadoes valued at $138, the Magistrate told him. property of Willy Jackson of Burnett noted that Glasgow Queensbury. had no previous convictions, The offence was committed at pleaded guilty at the first Queensbury on July 5. available opportunity, was still Responding to questions from young, was a good prospect for the Senior Magistrate, Glasgow, rehabilitation and, the avocadoes unrepresented, said he dropped were returned to the complainant. out of school in Form 4 because “Although he has done a wrong his mother left him to live on his I don’t think that prison is the own. best place for him at age 17,” the “Explain what you were going Magistrate contended, adding, “I to do with 46 avocadoes. Not one, would not order compensation because that could be avocado and because the farmer is in receipt of bread. Tell me what you were the items.” going to do with 46 avocadoes?” Prosecutor Curlene Samuel told the Magistrate asked. the Court that the majority of the “Sell,” Glasgow admitted. avocadoes Glasgow stole were Inquiring of Glasgow whether young ones. he was keeping up to date with “Yes, the majority of them what was happening in this would be young ones because he country, Burnett added, “The had to pick them fast and run. He farmers in St. Vincent and the just grab, put them in the bag, Grenadines are complaining daily. jump and run,” Burnett related, They are complaining daily about before bonding Glasgow for one persons who would go to their year. If he breaches the bond he Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
Veron Primus (centre)
Verdict in PrimusÊ case today A VERDICT is expected to be delivered today (Friday) in the murder trial of Vermont resident Veron Primus, which started about a month ago at the High Court Criminal Assizes. Primus is charged with, between November 11 and November 15, 2015, murdered Real Estate Agent Sharlene Greaves of Dorsetshire Hill. Greaves body, with multiple stab wounds, was discovered in her office at Arnos Vale on the morning of November 13, 2015. On Wednesday and Thursday, this week, the High Court heard closing arguments from Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Karim Nelson, who led the case for the Prosecution, and the lead lawyer for the defence Michael Wyllie, who was assigned by the state. Nelson was assisted by Prosecutor John Ballah and Crown Counsel Kaylia Toney, while Wyllie was assisted by attorneys Vynette Frederick, and Sonel Frazer. Law student Kamla David took notes for the defence. Justice Brian Cottle is expected to give his summation today (Friday), following which the 12member jury is expected to deliberate. Eighteen witnesses testified for the Prosecution, including several civilians and detectives. One police officer, a Certified Digital Forensic Examiner, was called by the Prosecution as a rebuttal witness. The defence called one witness. Three Prosecution witnesses, and the defence witness testified via video link, under the Witness (Special Measures) Act, passed here in 2013. At the request of the Prosecution, THE VINCENTIAN has not been reporting on the evidence during the trial, because of the sensitive nature of the matter, and to avoid any prejudicial effect on witnesses to come. However, when the matter is concluded THE VINCENTIAN will give full coverage of the trial.
would have to pay the Court $1,500 forthwith, with an alternative of three months in prison. “What do you plan to do with your life?” the Magistrate asked Glasgow, who did not reply. The Prosecutor confirmed to the Magistrate that Glasgow’s family had indeed left him alone, and that the police were trying to help him, but he was following the wrong company. The Magistrate advised Glasgow to work along with the police to change his life. “If you don’t change your life, there is a place you would go. I don’t want you to go there, but you have to change your life,” Burnett warned. According to the facts presented earlier, the complainant is the caretaker of a parcel of land with fruit trees at Queensbury. Around 2 p.m. on July 5, while the complainant was on the land, he heard a noise coming from an avocado tree, then saw the defendant jump out of the tree, and ran along with another person. A report was made to the police, and Glasgow was subsequently arrested and charged. The avocadoes were recovered and returned to the complainant.
Auxiliary Chief pleased with sentence
ON BEHALF of Commissioner of Police Colin John the Auxiliary Police Force is grateful that Jack is alive. and himself, Commandant of the St. Vincent and Charles said that Jack is cared for by his sister the Grenadines Auxiliary Police Police, Michael Charles, says he is pleased with the outcome of the and other relatives. matter involving the shooting of one of their members, Curtland Jack. Last week, High Court Judge, Angelica Teelucksingh, sentenced 33-year-old Tyson Spencer of Green Hill to 15 years in prison, for unlawfully and maliciously wounding with intent, Auxiliary Police Officer Curtland Jack of Campden Park, whose injury has left him paralysed from his shoulders down. The 15-year sentence included the two years, seven months, and 3 days Spence ELMAN DEWETTE of Paget Farm, Bequia was spent on remand. granted bail in his own recognizance in the sum of Spencer was also sentenced to nine years $2,500, when he appeared at the Kingstown in prison for unlawfully and maliciously TWO TEENAGE girls will wound. wounding Dwayne Peters of Kingstown with Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of assault and using deceptive means to induce. return to the Kingstown When the girls returned to intent, and nine years for unlawfully and Dewette has been charged with using deceptive Magistrate’s Court on the Kingstown Magistrate’s maliciously wounding Deron Quashie of means to induce Shamiah Ollivierre to go from August 22 for trial on Court on Monday, they Choppins with intent. charges of wounding and pleaded guilty to the charges. All three sentences will run concurrently, Uncle Dust Supermarket in Paget Farm to Battery theft. Senior Magistrate Rickie which means that Spencer will only serve 15 in Paget Farm. He is also charged with unlawfully assaulting Ollivierre. The girls, ages 15 and 19, Burnett then adjourned the years behind bar. He had pleaded guilty to Both offences were reportedly committed on are charged with unlawfully matter to the following day the charges on March 25, 2022, but July 9. and maliciously wounding an to have the complainant sentencing was adjourned. The charge of using deceptive mean to induce 18-year-old woman of present. The charges stemmed from a shooting could be tried either summarily or on indictment. Diamond. On the girl’s return to incident at Heritage Square on December When Dewette was asked how he preferred to be The 19-year-old is also Court on Tuesday, 22, 2019. tried, after it was explained to him, he said charged with stealing $30 in Prosecutor Curlene Samuel Charles, who is also a former summarily, meaning that he preferred to be tried cash from the woman. read the facts. However, Commissioner of Police, told THE in the Magistrate’s Court and not in the High The charges reportedly after listening to the VINCENTIAN, “I have no problem with the Court. stemmed from an incident at explanation of both sentence,” though he is still worried by The charges were then put to Dewette and he Little Tokyo on January 31, defendants, the Magistrate Jack’s situation. pleaded not guilty to both charges. 2022 during which the decided to enter not guilty Charles disclosed that though Jack As part of his bail conditions, Dewette was complainant was relieved of pleas, and set a date for trial. underwent several surgeries which have ordered not to contact the virtual complainant, and $30. The girls were not stabilized him to an extent, he remains She is also reported to represented in Court. paralysed and is confined to wheelchair/bed. to report to the Paget Farm Police Station every Tuesday. The matter was adjourned to August 17. have sustained a stab He said it was an unfortunate incident, but
Trial date set for teenage girls
Bequia man accused of deception
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 5.
Arts
The cast of female actors who each carried a different story of an embattled women, joined together to combat the ills inflicted on Vincentian women.
‘Wake: Black Girls’ Insurrection’ stirs its audience sensitivities and sensibilities were touched. They, the audience, had had THE THEATRICAL presentation entitled, bought in! ‘Wake: Black Girls’ Insurrection’ Then there was the ‘insurrection’ — premiered at the Russell’s Auditorium an uprising that was non-violent, last Saturday, 9th July. The script was seeking only to make a point for better based on poetry written by Zenna Lewis, treatment of women. with playwright David ‘Darkie’ Williams The poetry here was on point as the transforming the pieces into dialogue. It cast of females, now dressed in was directed by Jaykel Mars, with military attire paraded, pronounced original music by Otto Essien. sentence and prodded listeners to join the fight; being sure that a keen Play action awareness of their referenced realities of Vincentian women would produce The play looked at the current proactive decisions. treatment/ill treatment of women in According to Director Mars, “It was St. Vincent and the Grenadines. intended to, really and truly, open up ‘Wake’ symbolized death to the the minds of people as to what is ignoring of the truth, and also an happening within SVG as it relates to actual ‘waking-up’ of the consciousness our Vincentian women, to the of persons about the happenings legislative framework that operates around them; the insurrection — a call within the space that is hindering the to consciousness. development and protection of our The all-female cast did not follow women and girls.” the generic leading roles format, but laid out the storyline through powerful Production details perspectives from each player. With a narrator acting as the Voice The production which explored the of Reason with nuances of a foreteller, ‘devising’ method of drama that the action commenced “in this land of advocates group collaboration as strife where cussing and fighting run actors respond to stimuli which rife”, opening the audience up to culminate in original performances, issues of atrocities against women. produced a profound and appealing Momentum began to build as a story. Using a minimal set, engaging young girl moved from being raped to gobo lighting and live music, the stage delivering her perpetrator’s child, to was set to tell the women’s tale becoming lost in the battle for sanity Beyond the regular theatrical and acceptance. performance, the audience also saw a The audience was then taken on a performance that encompassed several rise as girl after girl took to the stage aspects of the arts. Added to this was to graphically portray her situation. the pleasing mix of veteran and young The Director certainly achieved his actors. objective as groan after groan, sigh Here’s a ‘thumbs-up’ for “Wake: after sigh and other utterances Black Girls Insurrection”. emanated from patrons whose By Gloriah...
V DIGICEL SVG gives customers more this summer 6. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
DIGICEL is heating things up in St.Vincent and the Grenadines for the summer with more speed, more reliability, more value, more coverage and more rewards for customers islandwide. Brenda Barbour-Charles, CEO of Digicel St.Vincent said: “We are emerging as the mobile and digital operator of choice in St.Vincent and the Grenadines. Our customers have spoken and we are committed to offering MORE value, MORE savings, MORE reliability and even MORE rewards. In keeping with our customer promises, we always act on our customers’ feedback and reward them for being part of the Digicel family; so this summer, customers across St.Vincent and the Grenadines can look out for more from Digicel and
Digicel+. That means more giveaways, more value, more talk, more data and more savings with Digicel.” Over the years, Digicel has invested millions to keep Vincentians across the country connected to the people and things they love most. New and existing Digicel and Digicel+ customers stand to benefit this summer when they activate any Prime Bundle, switch to Digicel, sign up for Digicel+ and/or pay their postpaid bill on time in full. Barbour- Charles continued: “We’re all about meeting customers where they are and giving them what they want. We are always listening to customers in order to determine how best to direct our energy. Vincentians say they want more talk, more data, and more value, so we’ve revamped
our Prime Bundles that have unlimited calls and text messages plus more data, giving customers more value for money with Digicel, as well as other value-driven plans starting as low as $5.” In addition to offering value from a customer standpoint, over the next few weeks, Digicel will also be popping up in communities across the country to give back to the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines in a number of different ways. Customers can follow along as Digicel paints the town red via its social media pages. Brenda Barbour-Charles added, “We
believe that as we grow, so too must the communities around us and we’re looking forward to going around the country, meeting and greeting Vincentians, getting to know some of our customers face to face and working with them to create a world where no one gets left behind.” Offering simply more, customers will have the opportunity to win exciting cash prizes, grocery vouchers, free gas, as well as be eligible for their share of the grand prize draw of $20,000. It’s time to get MORE in St.Vincent and the Grenadines with Digicel.
John installed as Lion South president outlined that, “I intend to make the process of streamlining the club and The Lions Club St. Vincent South will, its administrative procedures, a for the 2022-2023 Lionistic year, have priority so that there can be as its President, Lion Dionne John. At transparency and a smooth transition a ceremony held at the Paradise Beach from one Lionistic year to the next; Hotel on Saturday 9th July, President and to most importantly dedicate my John was installed along with other year as President to the memory of my members of the Board of Directors. dear friend, Lion Evans Bernard The new President made it clear John.” that she looked forward to greater She announced that the Lion’s Club visibility of the Lions as they engage St. Vincent South will give support in community projects. As for her through a monetary contribution to emphasis for the ensuing year she the Memorial Scholarship Fund in By Gloriah...
honour of late Lion Evans Bernard John, something which she hopes will continue even after her tenure comes to an end. As she wished the Lions a productive year, the President emphasized their role in the society. “Lions, let us become more involved in community projects and be more visible in our community,” she implored. “Being a Lion is about the people we serve and at the end of the day, anything that matters as a Lion is how much better we serve because we are the Lions!” She took time out to express gratitude to Lion Sylvia DeFreitas, whom she said had been a mentor to her since first joining the Lions Club of Kingstown, SVG. She continued with, “Each and every one of us, I wish to thank you for your continued support as we charter the course. We are in this together. We will overcome and we will be stronger together!” Working along with Lion President John for the 2022-2023 Lionistic year, one which she hopes to be rewarding and fulfilling, will be: Cornelia Moses, Immediate Past President; Jenielle George, First Vice President; Elroy John, Second Vice President; Junior Bacchus, Treasurer; Suzette May, Secretary; Lennox Bowman, Membership Chairperson; Monelle Marksman, Marketing and Communicating Chairperson; and Stephen Seymour, Tamer.
Dionne John, newly installed President of Lion Club St. Vincent South.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 7.
Regional
Another round in the LIAT saga AS THE GOVERNMENT OF ANTIGUA and Barbuda struggles to keep a 3-plane LIAT service in the air, it has tabled new proposals aimed at revitalising the airline and ensuring viability of the service. The proposal calls on every territory to which the fledging airline LIAT flies or will fly, to purchase shares in the new company as a show of their commitment to joining the effort to revitalise the embattled airline. A statement issued following the weekly (last week) Cabinet meeting in Antigua noted that in the proposed new LIAT, “the salaries, wages and other emoluments will take up a smaller part of its cost of operations.” The new plan is intended to reflect the commercial needs and fulfillment of the territories. Any destination requiring more flights than has been deemed necessary, would make a special payment to realize its ambition. “A minimum revenue guarantee
(MRG) would be applied in order to determine what that cost would be. Benefits accrued will be equitably share, Antigua assured Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves ( Left ) speaks of repaying a LIAT debt while Prime Minister Gaston Browne floats a new proposal for revitalization of the airline. and disclosed that over these past 20 months, LIAT “shows a Barbados remained saddled with the and the Grenadines (SVG). Antigua small operating profit”. debt because the CDB refused to and Barbuda, entered into courtSince this new plan surfaced, long transfer the debt to Antigua, to whom appointed administration in July last time OECS spokesman on LIAT and the two countries had agreed to sell year, after a High Court judge granted air services generally — Dr. Ralph their shares for EC$1.00. a petition for the airline’s Gonslaves, reminded his people and Without making any commitment to reorganisation. The Guyana-born the region that despite St. Vincent and chairman of BDO Antigua and the Grenadines not being a part of the be part of the ‘new LIAT’, Prime Minister Gonsalves at the recently Barbuda, Cleveland Seaforth, was current LIAT operations out of concluded 43rd CARICOM meeting appointed LIAT’s administrator for the Antigua, the country, like Barbados, said the establishment of a new duration of proceedings. was still paying debts on the planes Last year, St. John’s had put the (ATRs) purchased as part of LIAT’s re- regional carrier “is a matter of urgency”, especially with renewed cost of restructuring LIAT at EC$108 fleeting operation. efforts to facilitate free movement million of which 50 per cent will come Gonsalves recalled that LIAT had from the Antiguan government with several planes, ten at maximum, three within CARICOM. It may well be a revival of LIAT in the remainder expected to come via of which were purchased and the CDB some form or another, Gonsalves said. other shareholder governments or even had the lien on the others. LIAT (1974) Ltd., owned by the private investors. (Sources: Barbados Gonsalves explained that St. governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Today, ANR) Vincent and the Grenadines and Barbados, Dominica and St. Vincent
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8. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 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
Of this and that THE ‘DENNIES’ ENGAGE IN combat Another c-a-r-n-i-v-a-l has come and gone and not that it is responsible for so much of ‘this, that and even the other’, but it certainly has contributed its fair share. Take the fallout regarding the treatment of calypso and calypsonians this c-a-r-n-i-v-a-l. One Anthony Dennie found himself at the centre of an issue involving another Dennie - calypsonian Alvin ‘Zion I’ Dennie - and his 2022 offering entitled ‘Hypocrites’. Now the way we see it is that this whole ‘basa basa’ involving the ‘Dennies’ may just have morphed out of hand because one Dennie was wearing four hats, and may have found it ‘difficult’ to shed his hat(s) according to the public occasion to which he was exposing himself. That Dennie wears the following hats: Product Development Officer of the National Lotteries Authority; Operations Manager of the stateowned VC3 Television; anchor man on the morning programme on STAR FM Radio, owned by the ‘ruling’ Unity Labour Party; and Co-ordinator of Carnival Development Corporation Shows The ‘bottom’ line of having such weight on one’s head is that it gets uncomfortable and the wearer is wont to become confused with respect to separating the ‘roles’ of the hats or, for that matter, how one relates to the other. From the time that the hat-wearing Dennie opened his mouth as to give a position with respect to whether the other Dennie’s calypso was going to be played on ‘his’ (STAR) radio station, all other hats fell in the same spot as his STAR FM hat. This is Vincy, man!! What did he expect? That we would make the differentiation for him when it seems he was not prepared to even recognize the potential chaos his hatladen head would have created? There were other calypsos and soca offerings with references and innuendo (the Prime Minister likes this word) that were as damning and/or potentially damning, not to mention totally unbecoming, that warranted the same treatment as was apportioned the calypsonian Dennie. (Note the creeping in of wholesale, irresponsible reference to Jesus Christ by some artistes.) The extent to which the calypsonian Dennie’s 2022 offering was dissected, examined with fine teeth combs, belittled because it appeared to come from a different political point of departure, was a high-hand, a scrutiny to which calypso in its glory days was never subjected. Those of us who find ourselves in positions that we know will attract public attention and positions that are
perceived to wield influence above and beyond norm and reason, ought to realise that what we say, how we say what we say, and on whose behalf we purport to speak, will reverberate to affect us and those on whose behalf we purport to speak. Independence of thought makes a man a real man. Too many hats worn at the same time should not become the norm. Déjà Vu — SVG Style Déjà Vu, a French expression, is translated into English to mean “already seen”. It connotes a sense of having already seen or experienced something. And, if the truth be told, we have had our fair share of experiences of déjà vu, especially in recent times. The latest case of déjà vu involves a development that came to our attention by way of international news agencies, i.e. that the Black Sand Resort Project, actually begun in the Mt. Wynne/Peter’s Hope area, was about to change ‘owners’, to use that word cautiously. Yes, word broke that PACE Developments St. Vincent Inc., the original developers of the Resort and who were gifted 36 acres of land on the former Mt. Wynne/Peter’s Hope estate for EC$7 million, had been taken over by Star8 Corp. - a publicly-traded company with expertise in technology and eCommerce-driven solutions’, headquartered in Miami. Florida. All of this, on the heels of a recent visit to SVG by the principal of PACE, during which he promised a recommencement of works on the project site by July. No indication, or at least not made privy to the media, that there was any ‘takeover’ or even talk of a possible takeover on the agenda. That, if that be the case, is another slap in our faces. Total disregard for our sovereignty, total disdain for a nation of people looking to impact the world. It wasn’t so long ago that David Ames, under protective cover including by night, departed these shores and left us holding an indebted, dangerously poised as it related to solicited investment, the Buccament Bay Resort, which was touted as our flagship tourism development on mainland St. Vincent. We wait to see how this ‘change of ownership’, (not far from being a cloak and dagger type action) pans out. Whether in fact the takeover is a legal under the conditions of the sale to PACE and under the laws of our sovereign nation. Déjà vu without a doubt. De ja vue
My Midyear Review of the Budget THIS ARTICLE IS AN EXAMPLE of a midyear review that I think is appropriate. It is not something sanctioned or reviewed by anyone in the government or the opposition. It is an example of a document I, as an administrator, had to produce quarterly and present to the elected officials and the residents. We had to provide updates on every major city initiative, at least semi-annually. In the absence of any report/update, I will provide my summary of a few of the government initiatives: 1. Covid-19 Initiative - Handling the Covid-19 pandemic from a healthcare perspective can generally be described as a success. The publicly available records of infections show much lower (figures) than in the industrial faction of the world. Our death rate is also much lower than most. Like so many things Vincentian, much of this success is unexplainable. And as long as we maintain a relatively low rate of infection and death, we all know that vaccination would continue to be a problem. I think it’s time to rethink the mandatory vaccination requirement for “essential” workers (teachers). Vaccination should not be a game of winners and losers. But if we must, let’s call it a draw and move on. Our handling of the unvaccinated teachers taints the success story of our handling of the pandemic. It’s all about the children and their education. Let’s get as many qualified teachers back in the classroom. 2. Education Revolution - another successful year of placing young adults into post-secondary studies worldwide. The 55 students sent to the University of Wales Trinity St. David is a feather in our cap and could advance the conversation on reparation. The secondary school repair program started slowly and will not meet any of the publicized schedules. We don’t do well with delivering timely construction projects. The temperature classrooms in Bequia and at Arnos Vale are at risk of outliving their useful life. I see a budget item in our future to repair these temporary schools. 3. Rebuilding after the eruption According to the budget, 104 homes were completely destroyed, and 771 were damaged. I wish I could say we are on our way toward completing this budget goal, but I genuinely don’t know. I know that the twentyseven homes being built on the
Orange Hill land, purchased by the government are still not ready to be handed over to the new residents. I also know that some residents who had damage to their homes are still awaiting a visit from the assessment team, and a few have stated categorically that they do not expect any assistance. I hope that is not the case, but time will tell. 4. The VEEP- This programme seems to be having difficulty spending the $118 million as some eligible departments have not yet identified possible projects. What I thought would be a two-year programme seems now to be a fiveyear programme. 5. Modern deep-water port - This project received much attention with the relocation of some residents from Bottom Town. Honestly, I am still very concerned about the impact of this project on the area and Kingstown in general. I have not seen the plan or impact statement, but I am having difficulty understanding how this traffic around the site will not create a nightmare for us all. 6. Continued farmers and fishers’ relief payments - it is no secret that I did not support this program. The partnership with Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union (KCCU) to supplement loans for fishing boats and equipment is also something I do not support. To be clear, I am not against supporting these folks, but forcing them to go to the KCCU for this assistance is wrong. I am sure there are other nonprofit organizations that could have handled this effect more efficiently. National Development Foundation? I hope this effect will not adversely affect the credit union’s operations and its members. Remember Building and Loan? By the way, did we ask the members of the Credit Union to vote on the decision to collaborate on this government project? Whatever happened to the cooperative creed to stand free from political and, by extension, government influence and interference? These are just a few examples of projects on which we should receive regular updates. I would like to see a presentation to parliament on the revised Revenue Estimates. I have lost track of all the VAT and Customs Duties/Fees we have waived or reduced to soften the impact of global inflation. Horatio
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 9.
Letters
The Kingstown General Hospital: Frightening
I TELL you this; hearing is not factual. Believing is based on knowing the truth. Having seen the evidence and condition, the Kingstown General Hospital is scary to death. Just before my good brethren, Ras Oba Chatoyer (Richard Jacobs) made the transition to the great beyond, I visited him at the Kingstown General Hospital (Milton Cato Memorial Hospital) to see how he was doing.
What I saw at the hospital was horrifying. I saw a Hospital in chaos, seemingly void of competent staff to save the sick and wounded from death. The Kingstown General Hospital is the lowest of the low. That place has an odor not pleasing to human nostrils. The hospital seems more suitable for others things — no wonder people with the financial means go abroad to seek medical attention.
Real Soca is Calypso
WE HAVE a runaway horse which some people call soca. Can someone get the horse back into its stable? Real soca is calypso with a particular drum beat and bass pattern. It is not a-million-beats-perminute rhythm with various persons ‘talking’ to the same rhythm. Result: No creativity! No orchestration! Let me remind most of the soca artistes: We still sing soca. Eliminate the talking! You don’t have to use vulgar lyrics for it to be soca. Soso’s ‘Longer Jamming’ and Becket’s ‘Ten Years’ are just two examples of soca without lewd and vulgar lyrics. Soca is not about the promotion of rum drinking. It is not about instructing anyone to put their hand in the air, mash up, tear down and pull up everything. It is no wonder that these songs do not go beyond the party venues in SVG. When are we going to get another Soca Monarch singing a soca in the vein of ‘I Am Soca’? What pains me and hundreds more, these are the ones some radio ‘prattlers’ push. They call them ‘big tunes’. They go to the extreme. The tunes get hot, then BOOM!!! They explode. You three, you are prostituting and debasing our cultural heritage. Ras Shorty I’s invention should not go to nought. It is time to take it back. Concerned
The state of the interior of the hospital tells me further to the dilapidated schools, setbacks in the agriculture sector, and the breakdowns of law and order, that St. Vincent is a failed state. For a country to run efficiently, its government should have as its top priorities: a sound healthcare system; a viable, effective, and productive agriculture system; and an educational system to develop the potential of the people. I recall the day in 1977 when my mother came to take me home from the Kingstown General Hospital where I was a patient. I
As I entered the hospital, bypassed the emergency area, and onward to the men’s wards, the place was unbearable to the eyes. I now see why politicians and the bourgeoisie seek medical attention in Cuba and North America. If they are not mentally strong, the looks of the Kingstown General Hospital could cause the ailing patients to worsen. And I began to wonder: I see no sense in us promoting tourism when we lack a healthcare system to take care of locals far less foreigners. The Prime Minister must know that decent locals
and visitors deserve better. As I walked along the hallways and corridors, I saw the despair, doom, and darkness of a Hospital that once was run like a multi-star hotel. Our minds are so clouded that it prevents us from seeing the big picture of things that concern our well-being. If we open our eyes, we will see the deplorable condition of the Kingstown General Hospital. Carden A. Michael
Avoid Leadership by Trial and Error: Read the Manual by Anthony Stewart, PhD MANUALS are made by the manufacturers of products to give instructions about how they (products) work. But how many of us read these manuals? Most people have smart phones but have not read the manuals. Instead we depend on younger students who themselves have not read the manuals. All they have done and can do, they learn by Trial and Error, fiddling with the device to see what works. As a consequence, we miss out on features that may prove useful for our undertakings. We need to prove that we are the wise ones by knowing the contents of the manuals and using them to make
PEOPLE ARE ASKING⁄⁄
* Why the limited activities at the Kingstown Port were not moved to the Campden Park Port, to allow for the refurbishing and upgrading of that port (Kingstown), thus leaving the Rose Place beach for the fisher folk? * Is the new multi-million dollar Modern Kingstown Port going to be underutilised like the Argyle International Airport? * When will the Ministry of Health use its authority to bring to an end the extremely dangerous practice of burning tyres, plastics, coal pits and synthetic fabric in residential areas? * Will the public ever know who shot Sergeant Philbert Chambers at the Lewis’s home in Campden Park? * What about the inquiry into the death of CJea Weekes? Will the
remember being overwhelmed by sadness. I didn’t want to leave for my stay at the Hospital felt like staying in a 3star hotel. When recently, I saw the deplorable conditions of the Kingstown General Hospital, I prayed to the Great Spirit to sustain me with good health so I won’t end up as another statistic. Indeed, it is a big difference from the hospital of yesteryear. If the Prime Minister and members of the opposition do not go to the Kingstown General Hospital to seek medical attention, neither should members of the general public. But what choice do we have?
public ever get a report on the inquiry? * Did VC3 breached its contract with those who bought the Pay Per View service for Carnival when it (VC3) blocked Zion I’s performance at the Calypso Monarch Finals? * Will a Prime Minister of SVG ever resign on the grounds that they lied to the population or covered up for some wrongdoing by a minister or high-ranking public officer? * Is there a shortage of fish at the Kingstown Fish market? If so, what is causing this? * How come our National Cycling Champion Cammie Adams is not representing us at the Commonwealth Games?
our lives and livelihoods better. Our manual for living is the Bible. It tells us that we must work and not be idle, that we must rest periodically. It tells us what is best for us to eat. One instruction is that we must avoid fat and blood. It describes how we should live amicably with each other, putting guidelines encoded in the Ten Commandments. In summary, we are to Love God with all our heart and our neighbour as ourselves. The manual by which our country operates is our Constitution. Our Parliamentarians, Judiciary, and Executive are all subject to the Constitution. Our manual for Parliamentarians constrains their operations but depends on Speakers to ensure fairness. In this regard a rogue Government can be brought down by a vote of no confidence. This feature is our chosen path rather than armed insurrection. The Judiciary operates according to the Laws of our country. No one is above the law and those purporting to be above the law need to understand this. Thus, the statement that “you can go to whatever court you want to but you must come back to Papa,” needs to be withdrawn
unequivocally. The manual guiding our finances require that our accounts balance and should be transparent. Thus, the Accountant General should be empowered to provide the information so that the Auditor General can present audited accounts for the previous year. In this way no 100 million will be “missing.” Further rules guiding how monies are to be spent and accounted for would be followed to avoid past mistakes. The Civil Service would be appointed by merit and be allowed to do their work, striving to be as efficient as the Private Sector. They must carry on the business of Government in a timely fashion. The Police need to exercise their independence in investigating and prosecuting law breakers. They need the requisite training and must be ahead of the criminals and be proactive in deterring crimes. Teachers too need to be empowered to
equip their students with knowledge and skills to enable them to live and make a living. Community Organizations too, have manuals by which they operate to ensure that they deliver the service they set out to do. Churches also have manuals to guide their operations. Whether we are trying to make cassava bread, assemble a bicycle, do our own car repairs, function as a worker in Government or the Private Sector, or as a volunteer in a group or church, manuals are indispensable. They keep us on track, will help settle disputes and make for the right outcome. We can no longer rely on the ignorant persons trying to lead us by Trial and Error.
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10. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Supporting Those Impacted By Port Development
NDP will Revive Carnival and Develop Creative Arts
Introduction
CARNIVAL WAS HELD AFTER an absence of two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it appeared that there wasn’t any significant improvement to the festival. The Unity Labour Party (ULP) government is killing carnival slowly. Carnival needs to be resuscitated. The deliberate omission from the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) of competent personnel, especially if one is perceived to be a supporter of the New Democratic Party (NDP); the absence of new blood with fresh ideas from the CDC; the lack of innovation and creativity; the lack of marketing; insufficient prize money and the political interference of the overall management of the carnival are some of the reasons for the decline in Vincymas. We cannot separate carnival from the creative arts. There is also a steady decline in creative arts in this country. The ULP government has failed miserably in the development of creative arts as well. In its 2001 manifesto, the ULP stated that it would have provided the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) with the financial, administrative and technical support necessary to make it function as the leader in the cultural field. After 21 years the question is, where is the National Cultural Foundation today? Bear in mind, the NCF was established by the former NDP administration. The ULP also promised to build a modern multipurpose and aesthetically appealing Creative Arts Centre. Twenty-one years later, Vincentians are still waiting for the Creative Arts Centre
THE CONSTRUCTION OF A modern container port in capital city Kingstown will be the next major project undertaken by this Unity Labour Party administration, and will be the second largest capital project only to the Argyle International Airport. This new port will be approximately 16 acres and will have a transformative effect on the economy of this country, and is likely to position us as a viable alternative trans-shipment hub in this region. The vision to construct this modern port to replace the existing infrastructure is all part of the broader vision for this country and the creation of a modern, competitive, many-sided, post-colonial economy that is at once local, national, regional and global. The fact that the government is at the point where the project has been launched is a remarkable story of resource mobilisation through funding agencies and other partnerships developed through our country’s pragmatic foreign policy. The involvement of our funding partners indicates unequivocally the level of confidence they have in the project as conceptualized, and they have shown this by the level of their commitment to the implementation of the project. For example, the Caribbean Development Bank has provided a loan of US$110 million to the project and this amount represents the largest single loan ever disbursed by the bank in its 50 years of existence. Likewise, the government of the United Kingdom, our long-standing development partner and diplomatic ally, is providing a US$36 million-dollar grant towards this project, through its Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF), and this represents the largest payout by this program in the Caribbean. As remarkable as this is, an even more amazing story lies in the manner in which this government has dealt with the individuals in the area who will be affected by the construction of the cargo port. Two sets of individuals: the families and individuals who lived on the waterfront and the fisherfolk and small shop owners based in that area were offered significant support by the government who required that these individuals relocate their homes and/or business operations. The level of support offered is unheard of in the history of this country and possibly anywhere in this region, and is worth discussing so that the country can have an idea of the efforts made by our government to offset and/or minimise any negative impact of the relocation.
Citizens Supported in their Dignified Relocation Once the site at Rose Place (Bottom Town) was identified and confirmed as the location for the new container port, it was immediately clear that a number of families and individuals who lived on the waterfront would need to relocate. The majority of the residents lived in less than ideal accommodations that were quite informally and improperly constructed and lacked basic amenities, while others found temporary residence in rather odd circumstances. In addressing this situation, this government, the creator of the housing revolution in SVG, set out to provide proper support and assistance to all who would be impacted by the port project. Lands were identified at Lowman’s Bay and 43 beautiful homes were constructed, which sparked the development of a new community complete with proper infrastructure and all amenities present. These
homes were constructed as either one or two bedroom duplexes and 3 bedroom family homes at a cost of EC$4.8 million to the government. Our funding partners were quite impressed with the way the government dealt with the relocation process and the residents themselves, most of whom have already moved into their new homes are extremely pleased and excited with their new accommodations. Those individuals who were living in rather odd circumstances, were also given rental support as they themselves didn’t own a structure on the waterfront. Notwithstanding the cost of constructing the houses to the government, the project impacted persons who were relocated to Lowman’s Bay who got their keys at no cost to them. In all, some 43 households are now relocated thanks to the generosity, and support of this ULP administration lead by Comrade Ralph that has always worked in the interest of working-class Vincentians.
Support for Fisherfolk and Small Business owners The other component of this amazing story details the compensation offered to vendors, small business owners including fisherfolk who had to be relocated from the site at Rose Place. Since 2020, the government started the process of relocation, and this phase involved compensating approximately 56 vendors who plied their trade along the sea wall outside the Leeward bus terminal but needed to be removed. More recently, the government focused on providing compensation packages for small business owners and fisherfolk whose operations along the bay had to be relocated. For each registered fisherfolk, a generous compensation package of approximately EC$18,000 to assist with fleet improvement, employee travel, shed relocation and other challenges that will arise as a result of the relocation. Already, about 35 registered fishers have been compensated and the government is working assiduously to complete all payments satisfactorily and conclude the relocation process now that the contractor has taken possession of the construction site. This particular component is being implemented at a cost to the government in excess of EC$700,000. Additionally, the shops and small businesses at the site have also been offered generous compensation totaling in excess of EC$400,000 to ensure the survival of their businesses post relocation. The total figure of compensation for vendors, fisherfolk and small shop owners exceeds EC$1.2 million and when added to the cost of housing program, the overall cost to the government will be approximately EC$6 million dollars. The transformational nature of the port project leads the current public discourse and that’s quite understandable; however, the humanitarian side of this project where the government has ensured that all of the social safeguards are in place to mitigate against any negative impact on those impacted is equally remarkable. The ULP continues to get the small details right even as we focus on the successful implementation of those large projects of a transformational nature.
The way forward The way forward must involve the removal of partisan politics from the management of carnival. In restructuring carnival, the NDP will invite individuals with the knowledge and experience to the table, to plan and ensure that we create and produce the ‘hottest carnival’ of which we continually boast. The development of carnival will be part of our overall programme in culture, which includes the retooling of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) as an umbrella body under which the cultural and creative industries can develop and flourish. Carnival in particular needs the infusion of new ideas and a revamped marketing strategy. The management of Carnival will be incorporated under the National Cultural Foundation which will function to create an enabling environment for creativity without tight government censorship and control. And, consult with stakeholders and the general public for their suggestions. The NDP will build a Performing Arts Centre. This Centre will be the hub from which our performing and graphic artists will be encouraged to grow and develop. It will incorporate a well-designed, equipped and acoustically sound Performing Arts Facility. And, it will include a School of Music to accommodate the demands of Music theory and practice; instrumental training; formal voice training; assistance to modern popular music; classical training, the gospel artistes and calypsonians, etc. We will also create a National Youth Orchestra from that nucleus. Our graphic artists will be enabled to showcase their talents in the decoration of the public spaces as well as in the creation of sets and backdrops for all types of cultural
performances. The Performing Arts Centre will also provide spaces to house exhibitions of our artists’ work. Further, we will refurbish targeted Resource and Community Centres to include a space for music, dance and community theatre in various villages and towns. Revive our national biennial Music Festival, and revitalize and expand poetry, dance and drama festivals to cater for both young people and adults. Encourage dance programmes in schools at the primary and secondary levels, support the efforts of independent teachers of dance and enable our talented dancers to continue to tertiary level and degree level programmes through the provision of scholarships and bursaries. And, provide support for cultural programmes at a village level which seek to reinforce our values and our indigenous culture. The NDP will support and encourage active participation in our nation’s festivals including Gospel and Jazz/Blues. Support the expansion of culinary arts competitions, exhibitions, fairs and training programmes to encourage older community heads to pass on their skills and techniques to a younger generation. Exhibitions and fairs will be linked to cruise ship arrivals and other festivals. In this way, we can expand the range of attractions for visitors while at the same time providing opportunities for income generation locally. We will assist the Calypso Association in finding a home and becoming self-sustaining and a support system for its members. Create an annual calendar of events which will form part of the Tourism strategy for marketing to visitors regionally and internationally. Fully support all initiatives taken to ensure that our artists and performers are properly rewarded for their talents and skills. To this end, we will enforce existing legislation that protects their interests, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will become a signatory of any international treaties that will benefit our artistes. Implement a properly accredited Visual Arts and Design programmes in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Caribbean Examinations Council and the University of the West Indies, and introduce a visual arts element in the syllabus for trainee teachers. The NDP will also provide fiscal incentives to encourage the private sector investment in the music industry, carnival, and in cultural performances. Complete legislation to award National Honours. The NDP had, in the past developed a system of local National Honours, and a Bill, providing for the declaration of National Heroes and the style and designation of the appropriate award, had its first reading in Parliament. The NDP will revisit this legislation to ensure the recognition of exemplary contributions made to the development of our society by its citizens. We must take politics out of carnival and culture. The best and most innovative Vincentians must be able to participate in the creation of a viable sustainable cultural industry which can aid our development as a people as well as usefully contribute to our country’s economic development.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022.11.
Views
Honour
“As I love the name of honour more than I fear death.” ? William Shakespeare (1564-1616), Julius Caesar DICTIONARY.COM IDENTIFIES THE WORD “honour” as a noun and also as a verb. When used as a noun it refers to personal integrity and allegiance to moral principles. It conjures up a positive image that others will hold dear. As a verb, the word is used “to hold in respect or esteem” or “to show courteous behaviour towards.” Various interpretations and meanings have been assigned to the word “honour”. However, it is widely agreed that the word embodies respect or esteem. Today, many military establishments challenge their stewards to focus on portraying honour in relation to courage or bravery. It is considered an honour to die for one’s country and/or a particular belief (e.g., the value of democracy, belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, etc.). Honour is often perceived as synonymous with other important virtues such as integrity, loyalty, and honesty. It is therefore expected that persons who are regarded as “honourable” (i.e., such as Members of Parliament) consistently portray these qualities. In this regard, society expects that they will not engage in activities such as nepotism, bribery (offering or receiving), and so on. Regrettably, we periodically receive reports that such individuals “fall from grace” as a result of their misconduct. In some cases, their “infractions” result in their having to demit office. The recent “revelations of misconduct” and subsequent resignation of England’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, is a classic case in point. Many commentators around the world had anticipated that Boris Johnson’s landslide victory at the polls in 2019 would have enabled him to cement his position at the helm of the British government for several years. Michelle Goldberg, an Opinion Columnist with The New York Times, in an article titled “The Delightful Implosion of Boris Johnson”, publish in 7th July 2022, noted that this expectation was quite understandable as a result of his political annihilation of Jeremy Corbyn’s lacklustre and illfated Labour Party. She further commented that following that resounding victory The Economist commented that Johnson “is well placed to become one of the most powerful prime ministers in modern times.” Alas, this was not to be. He fell from grace following a series of scandals resulting in his cabinet colleagues abandoning him en masse. Although he fought valiantly to retain his position as Prime Minister, he was eventually forced to resign. His announcement on 7th July 2022 did not take many by surprise. It seemed inevitable. His slip and slide from popularity and power was ushered in by a series of unprincipled and narcissistic behaviours … all deemed to be dishonest and dishonourable. Honour is vital in relationships (political and otherwise). It engenders trust, confidence, and respect. This is true in our homes, workplaces, and the society at large. Our society continues to cherish the qualities like honour, truthfulness, friendship, and loyalty. We understand and appreciate that, because we are human, we will periodically fall short of the noble goals that we aspire to. However, if
Gonsalves says no to transition. we continually do not “honour our words” we should not think it strange that others conclude that we are untrustworthy. We may be given second chances to redeem ourselves and to rebuild trust but we must understand and appreciate that trust, once broken, is often difficult to regain … and subsequent actions are regularly viewed with critical eyes. Dishonourable behaviours result in the breakdown of personal and professional relationships. There are some who, for a host of reasons, seek to devalue honour. Such individuals may argue that honour is an old-fashioned virtue and that the end justifies the means. Such individuals postulate that they are justified in getting ahead by all means — even if it requires them to “bend the rules” (by being dishonourable in their deeds). However, mankind’s observations throughout the centuries confirm that there is good reason for us to strive for honourable actions in our lives. Societies are stronger when the moral fabric of its citizens reflects such strength of character. In addition, honour is important in relation to how individuals see themselves. Enhanced confidence and self-esteem appear to be evident when our lives portray honour. David Gemmell (1948-2006), the British author of heroic fantasy, advocated the priceless value of honour and loyalty when he noted that, “I may be stupid, as you say, to believe in honour and friendship and loyalty without price. But these are virtues to be cherished, for without them we are no more than beasts roaming the land.” In another of his writings he asserted that, “Nothing of real worth can ever be bought. Love, friendship, honour, valour, respect. All these things have to be earned.” Our behaviours/actions reveal where we stand in relation to this priceless and most desirable virtue. Life’s situations and circumstances may sometimes appear to test us to the core but we must forever hold such virtues dear. These must reflect who we are and, in so doing, encourage subsequent generations to model and mentor our behaviours. This is a great honour and privilege that we must forever commit to passing on to the next generation. Conn Iggulden (born 1971), a British writer of historical fiction, has shared many useful insights in relation to honour, integrity, and courage through his Emperor series and Conqueror series. This prolific writer topped the UK fiction and nonfiction charts in 2007. Writing in the Conqueror series he noted that, “When you’re older, you will realise the only thing that matters, the only thing, is that you had courage and honour. Lose those things and you won’t die any quicker, but you’ll be less than the dirt on our boots. You’ll still be dust, but you’ll have wasted your short time in the light.” We have an awesome privilege to shine forth as beacons of light, hope, and honour. Each of us, in our own way, has the capacity to influence others for good through our acts of honour.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
AS THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY prepares for its convention on July 30, the party leadership is tight-lipped on the issue of transition. There is only one explanation. PM Gonsalves is prepared to preside over the destruction of the ULP rather than allow democracy to run its course. Ralph Gonsalves would rather the country grind to a halt rather than allow for the emergence of anyone other than his son, Camillo, as ULP leader and prime minister. Comraid Ralph is willing and ready to die in office if only to buy time with the hope that his son’s fortunes will change as a high-stakes attempt to burnish his flagging image unfolds. Increasingly, the die appears to have been cast. PM Gonsalves’ succession plan is unravelling. In 2013, Gonsalves boasted that he had a stable of young and tested cadre who could easily elevate to the helm and continue the ‘steady’ hand he had offered to his party and country. Sixtythree years old then. He said he was ready for the transition to the new leadership of his party. He boasted Camillo, Saboto, Luke Browne, and Carlos James were bright stars waiting to take their rightful leadership place. Nine years after, the 76-year-old Gonsalves holds tightly to the leadership of the party and government as if mortally afraid to transition to a new generation of leaders. He promised that he may be on the ticket for the 2025 elections. But a dilemma awaits him. Gonsalves only clings to power for one reason; he has no guarantee that his son, whom he has prepared for the last decade to assume leadership, will win the party’s and country’s favours. The news is that last Monday, the ULP National Executive nominated Ralph Gonsalves as the leader and Gommery Daniel as deputy. As Ken Boyea was fond of saying, ‘same old khaki pants. The convention on July 30 will be expected to ratify the Gonsalves/Daniel ticket. Gonsalves is said to have told Camilo and Saboto to return to the party faithful in search of more support. Don’t disregard the wily machinations of Comraid Ralph. Always the schemer, look for his attempts to out manoeuvre Saboto. He is busily working the phones cajoling members to vote for his son because Camillo is older by a decade, and Saboto’s time will come. Never mind, Saboto was in parliament seven years before Camillo. Saboto may be well advised by the crapaud, ‘bathe in the first water you meet.’ He has helped his in-laws: the Brownes. Luke and his dad Theo will have none of Gonsalves’ leadership fix. After three consecutive defeats at the polls, Luke’s chances at the premiership are fading fast. Therefore, bet on the house of Browne to put some needed steel in Saboto backbone as the fight for the top job heats up. Word on the ground is that Luke has already informed Gonsalves that it is politically improper for him, as leader of the party, to lobby for his son. About a month ago, the buzz among ULP supporters was that the party would select a new leader at the party’s general council meeting. Many supporters went to the meeting openly
proclaiming that ‘they were going to vote for Saboto’ as the next prime minister. At the meeting, Gonsalves made a rambling speech about not tolerating ‘mischief and disunity.’ Many party stalwarts who sensed that change was at hand left the meeting frustrated. Feeling the mood at the meeting, Gonsalves analysed that the balance of forces was not with him as it relates to hoisting his son on the party. He never allowed the open debate and possible vote that party members expected. Since then, he has improperly gone on a recruitment blitz, improperly canvassing members to vote for Camillo. Make no mistake, Camillo is technically best prepared for the job. Daddy Ralph skillfully engineered his rise to prominence. Camillo was assigned one highprofile assignment after the other: Senior Crown Counsel in the AG’s chambers, Ambassador to the United Nations, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Finance. In addition, he was helicoptered into the East St George’s constituency, where he had no previous link but an excellent chance of electoral success. Gonsalves never played up Camillo’s experience because he knows that the charge of nepotism may torpedo the attempt. Given similar opportunities, Saboto, Luke Browne, Hans King, or La Celia Prince might have loomed even larger. Yet Saboto, banished to the difficult agriculture ministry, contends for the top job. Had Camillo matched his 2015 outing in the 2020 elections, he would have been the front runner among party supporters. The poorly managed Yogi Farrell affair and his perceived aloofness by voters have knocked away some of his star power. He may still emerge as the leader. As buyer remorse set in, the national electorate may have tired on the G spot. Gonsalves’ attempt to fix the leadership race may be the proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back. Some supporters may have none of it. Another matter that presents Gonsalves with sleepless nights is which constituency Camillo will contest in 2025. Badly exposed in his 2020 outing against neophyte Laverne Gibson Vilox, he may win the leadership and lose his seat in parliament. Gonsalves may also be considering retirement so Camillo could run for cover in the relative safety of Daddy’s North Central Windward constituency. But this plan is not sitting well with some level-headed movers and shakers in the party. They believe any such move will further expose Camillo as a political weakling whose only future and success in Vincentian politics are tied up with his father’s influence and genal. All his life Ralph Gonsalves got what he wanted. He remains a scheming political juggernaut who, like a mindless cow, may be prepared to kick over the bucket of milk if his calf is denied the first right to suckle. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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12. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
SVG’s dependency upon tourism and foreign fuel is a big risk
SVG’s dependency upon tourism and foreign fuel is a big risk to the stability of our economy. As it stands, SVG is dependent on one main economic sector and that is tourism. Building an economy on only one sector is very risky, because if that sector collapses or shrinks significantly, then the economy is liable to collapse. On top of having a fragile economy, our country is put at further risk by its heavy reliance on fossil fuel imports to supply the majority of our electricity. The issue with dependency on these two specific factors — tourism and fossil fuel — is that we have no control over them. We cannot guarantee a certain number of tourists every year and we have no control on the price of fossil fuels, which have increased a lot recently. The Covid-19 pandemic is an illustration of how little control we
have on tourist arrival numbers. International travel bans due to Covid19 wiped out any income we would have received from an already weak and small tourism industry. Also, the current high price of oil means that our electricity charges are extremely high, and our country loses much more money abroad to pay for oil, reducing our ability to build up foreign currency reserves. We can see similar circumstances in Sri Lanka whose economy is on the verge of collapse. A significant part of the Sri Lankan economy was tourism reliant and it also relied on imports of fossil fuels. The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a major blow to their tourism industry too. Tourism revenues were estimated to have fallen by 75 per cent in 2020. In 2020, arrivals fell 70 percent to 507,704 from 1,913,702 in 2019. Sri Lanka does not have enough
money to buy fossil fuels. Now, the country doesn’t have enough fuel for essential services like buses, trains and medical vehicles. Officials say it does not have enough foreign currency to import more fossil fuels. This lack of fuel has caused petrol and diesel prices to rise dramatically since the start of the year. Schools have closed and people have been asked to work from home to help conserve supplies. The price of everyday goods has risen sharply. There have also been power cuts. A lack of medicines has brought the health system to the verge of collapse. Sri Lanka is defaulting on debt payments. This is an example of what can happen to weak economies that are poorly managed. Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, believes that
tourism could never create prosperity for SVG. It is very difficult to understand why the ULP regime has built our economy on tourism, given the risks it poses for sudden collapse and the terrible consequences. Our country needs to move away from tourism to an export orientated economy and free high-quality education from pre-school to our own world-class science and technology university, to create prosperity for all our people. We need to create a renewable energy industry also to produce our electricity. There is no long-term net benefit from tourism and having Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan in our country. SVG should cut ties with Taiwan and use our deep-sea tuna fishing licence to set up a tuna fishing and canning industry. This would create thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue for our country. We need to make our economy less at risk of collapse.
Untrustworthiness lubricates poverty – (ULP) WHEN VINCENTIANS reflect on the last twenty-one and a half years of their lives and soberly examine the issues and factors which have fashioned their present circumstances, they will have difficulty avoiding the conclusion that life in St. Vincent today, is far away from the quality which at the end of the last century we
seemed to have been working towards. What seemed to have happened, is that our own administrators were not of the material which was necessary for the leadership at that critical juncture. One must now wonder, if Ebenezer Joshua might not have been more effective in advancing the well-being of this society,
given the totality of his orientation and the impact of the changes he had initiated, during the era of his influence in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. One of the principal “stamps” of Ebenezer Joshua on this Vincentian society, has been the freedom in Religious Worship which allowed the traditionally “out-lawed’
Shakers — Spiritual Baptists — to come down from the mountains and practice their faith freely in residential areas of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. That religious groups, more than any other, had helped the masses to endure in those difficult yesteryears, after the abolition of slavery in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. But it seems fair to say, from the mound on which I sit, that our leaders since the advent of “Independence”, seemed to have been more focused on the control of power, than on the development of all the people. In the era of Milton Cato and the “St. Vincent Labour Party”, we had our brighter scholars who dared to be critical, being disparagingly referenced by our leaders and physically and emotionally harassed by the Police. Then there was the historic ignominious teargassing of our teachers and the despicable incarcerating of Mrs. Yyonne Francis-Gibson, a teacher, whose passion for society building had positively impacted the communities wherever she resided. When James Mitchell became the Prime Minister in 1984, the hopes of the agriculture community were fairly high. He was a qualified agronomist and he had previously, in his stint as Premier, overseen an impressive “National Agricultural Exhibition”, in which almost every citizen participated with enthusiasm. He declared some time afterwards, however, that he was on a mission to transform this economy from an
agriculture-based one to one that was services-based. In pursuit of that, he embarked on the selling off of lands in the Grenadines to expatriates who were offered very generous terms. At the same time, there was little interest shown in the maintenance of the feeder roads on which the farmers relied. There was as a result of that unfortunate repositioning of the economic thrust of our nation, a serious diminishing of the quality of life of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This was to a large degree responsible for the NDP and James Mitchell being rejected at the poles in 2001, when Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP fervently promised that they were going to revive the agriculture sector and Banana Industry. So in came Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP! It is note-worthy that Dr. Gonsalves had vehemently castigated Mr. Mitchell for his “recklessness” in selling off the lands in the Grenadines to expatriates while offering them generous tax-free concessions. But what was bad under James Mitchell has seemingly grown worse under Ralph Gonsalves, to such a degree, that several “big investors” have turned out to be merely “smart-men” who had hoodwinked our administrators and withdrawn owing us millions of dollars. Vincentians can now bear testimony to the fact that “Untrustworthiness lubricates poverty — ULP”. LeRoy Providence
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 13.
Tribute
Tribute to Ras Oba: Soul Rebel, Rasta Fari Warrior, Brother By Ras Bish-I
I & I GIVE THANKS TO ALMIGHTY JAH for giving you the guidance and strength to fulfil the works that you have done in your physical trod. During the trod you feared no evil because you knew that Jah Guides. Volumes can and will be said and written about you for “They got so much things to say right now”! I Man am paying Raspect to the Twelve (12) I-mentions of you which will always be remembered by I & I. 1: Oba - the student (Richard Jacobs) at the Boys Grammar School SVGBGS) 1960-1965. It was in the environment 1960-65 where your true nature revealed itself. You were a team player, an anti-colonialist, a defender of freedom, truth, rights and justice for all. How can I ever forget the break times we met at Ma, Miss Emily, to buy bodyline and mauby. 2: Oba- the sports enthusiast In Grammar School you played junior cricket, took part in house athletics, and football. Later on in life, football became your real passion and you gave materially and otherwise to the development of the sport, to which many can attest. I & I recall your admiration for Pete and Maradona at the international levels, and Rudy Boucher, ‘Slick’ Bonadie, Raulty and Guy Lowe, and Dorian at the national level. 3: Oba - the soldier This chapter you expressed for the USA at a relatively young age and it gave you the opportunity to tour the world and experience things that many can only hear about. The strength of character and determination you built during that time served you well for the years after, when you graduated to be a Soul-Jah. 4: Oba - the Pan-African Guru During the period of the ‘Black power’ narrative worldwide, you never took that label, however you were “blacker” than most in your actions and thoughts, and more conscious of your ‘power’ than many. Your prodigious reading of Revolutionary writing, especially Black Revolutional writings, fed the already burning you had for equal rights and justice. How well you held high the freedom fighters: Ché Guevera, Samora Machel, Steve Biko, Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X and Maurice Bishop. 5: Oba - the justice demander You have been the standout, impartial figure over the past 50 years in protests, demonstrations and other
Ras Oba Chatoyer – always carried a pleasant demeanor. such activities, rebelling against the injustices of the Babylon system at every level. You never took the side of injustice regardless. Some people used your energy to get into positions of higher office with claim of wanting to dispense justice but became practitioners of more injustice than before, ‘Only time will tell’! 6: Oba - the conscious dread, RastaFari You heeded the spiritual call of I & I ancestors, saw the light of the Almighty Creator, and recognized the earthly characters of Haile Selassie and Empress Menen — from thereon you became a Soul-Jah in Jah RastaFari army, fighting this Armageddon. The good thing is that I & I know I & I shall win, for I & I are confident in the victory of good over sin. 7: Oba - the adventurer Your love for the sea and the Grenadines will live on 8: Oba - the family man The beauty and warmth of your immediate family and the love they and others close to you exhibit, speaks volumes about your role as being there for them, always. 9: Oba - the generous Everyone who came into contact with you can express this sentiment. As a member of the SVG RastaFari Relief, this positive vibration was seen when you volunteered your family home for temporary use as a collection, storage and distribution point for relief supplies, both from local and other sources, in assisting those RastaFari and very-in-need people who were evacuated from the areas closest to the volcano, as well as
Ras Oba Chatoyer – made his life a crusade to ensure justice and equal rights to all mankind. some in other areas. 10: Oba - the organic farmer/gardener Not many people in this country know of your high ranking as an organic farmer; as someone who cared for Mama Earth, Mother Gia. This love was expressed during your sojourn in Vermont, USA, as a participant in the Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) programme. Even before that you were a vital part of the weekly Hot Pepper Export Marketing/Production programme I & I created at the Marketing Corporation/Marketing Board 2001-2003. Your teamwork with Mr. Chang of the Taiwanese Mission was the anchor of the seedling production supply to the farmers. The highlight, however, is when you introduced I-Man to the product ‘Great Grow’ and its creators/manufacturers. Since then the vision and reality of a 100% biological agricultural production system in SVG/Yurewein is nearing actuality.
11: Oba - the practical joker Many a person has been the recipient of one of your practical jokes over the time — jokes without malice that spoke of a vast sense of humor. None moreso than your Form 2B classmates who in 1961, all took the punishment for your prank in causing the Latin Master (BGS) to get entirely soaked trying to get into your Form room, because someone locked the door from inside. 12: Oba - the Cannabis Advocate and Defender Very early in the trod you expressed this vibration, and time will prove you right. The many actions, sufferings, and reactions you experienced, will all weigh in your favour and many people will come to realise that what you have said all those years was true, and is true. Rest in peace, brother! Rise in power, Brother! Jah love and guidance — ancestral welcome Asé!
14. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
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16. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 17.
Hurricane Safety tips plenty of fuel and water. Have several days supply of food and water for each family member. If called to evacuate, do so immediately.
re-Season Preparation
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• Enter the season prepared. Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast. Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters. Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit. Have plenty of batteries and flashlights Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.
When a watch or warning is issued • •
Leave low lying areas. Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters. Secure outside objects. Make sure you have
• •
•
During the storm •
Stay in Secure Room. Stay away from windows. Do not use the phone, or candles. Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio. Have supplies on hand. Remain indoors when the because the storm will resume shortly.
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If you have to Evacuate DON’T PANIC. An orderly, but immediate evacuation will help ensure that you arrive safely at your destination. Take Evacuation Kits. Gather your important documents: insurance papers with the name and phone number of your agent, medical records, driver’s licence, property photos, inventory check list, etc. • Turn off water, gas and electricity. • Lock all windows and doors. • Call friends and relatives to inform them of your destination. When you arrive, call again to let them know you are safe. • Leave the area, but not the region. Roads may be congested and the more time spent on the road, the greater your chance of being
Source: www.hurricaneville.com/safety.
stranded by the storm.
Evacuation Kit (Things to carry if going to a Shelter):
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Source: geology.com
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Make sure that all is definitely clear outside,
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Storm Names
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After the storm •
and the storm has completely passed before going out. Report downed power lines, and stay away from them. Use stored water and food. Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal.
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•
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Blankets/sheets for each member of the family. Identification cards for everyone. Important documents secured in water tight containers. Medicines and prescription drugs. Books, games, playing cards, etc., (this may be an extended stay). Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, toilet paper, feminine products, paper towels, etc. Extra clothes, shoes, etc. Baby food (if necessary) Food for 3 days. Drinking water Foam mattresses. Cash
2022 Hurricane Season Alex Bonnie Colin Danielle Earl Fiona
Gaston Hermine Ian Julia Karl Lisa
Martin Nicole Owen Paula Richard Shary
Tobias Virginie Walter
18. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Inspecting and protecting your home y following the suggestions below, your home will have a better chance of surviving severe weather. Start at the top: Check for any loose sheetings or loose nails on your roof. Make sure the gutters are tightly hinged and that they drain freely. Check the storm drains for any clogging. Work your way down: Check all windows and doors to ensure there are no loose panes/hinges. It is highly recommended that you install approved hurricane shutters over windows and doors to protect your home against strong winds.
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• If the power goes out, turn off your water heater, air conditioner, electrical appliances to reduce the chance of damage.
• Do not leave your house until it has been confirmed that is safe to do so. It may seem as if the storm has passed, yet you could be in the calm eye of the hurricane.
• If flooding occurs, turn off all electricity at the main breaker box.
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• Do not use your computer or any electrical device during the storm.
Make sure your car has a full tank of gas.
• Withdraw money beforehand - the storm may knock out power at ATMs.
How to protect your business during the storm ountless businesses have been wiped out, both physically and monetarily due to hurricanes. Here are some ways to protect your business during the storm:
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• Create a Disaster Plan. • Post a copy of the Evacuation Routes on each floor of the building. • Fax a copy of the Evacuation Routes to clients, customers and vendors. • Designate a meeting area in the event telephone lines are down. • Practice evacuation/fire drills annually with employees.
• Contact clients, customers and vendors when you return to your place of business after the storm. Update them on your company’s status. • Have your business appraised every 4 years.
Storing Food I
DEALLY, you should have enough non-perishable food items on hand to sustain your family for 1 week. High energy, high-nutrition foods are best. If the power goes out, eat the • If a hurricane poses a threat, foods in the refrigerator first, before secure your windows and doors. eating food in the freezer. Only open the refrigerator and freezer doors • Back up all data files and store when needed - the longer the door them in another location. stays closed, the longer the food lasts. Non-perishable foods are to be used • Make provisions to work without primarily after the perishable food electricity, water, sewerage and items from your refrigerator and telephone service for up to 2 weeks. freezer are consumed. • Have your building inspected annually by a certified building inspector.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 19.
NORTH WINDWARD
7. Glen Seventh Day Adventist Church
CENTRAL LEEWARD
1. Fancy Government School - Fancy 2. Apostolic Faith Mission - Fancy 3. Fancy Bethel Baptist Church - Fancy 4. Owia Government School (New Wing) 5. Sandy Bay SDA Church 6. Sandy Bay Government School 7. Tourama/Overland Government School 8. Orange Hill Community Center 9. Agricultural Training Institute - Orange Hill 10. Langley Park Government School 11. Dickson Methodist Church
WEST ST. GEORGE 1. Belmont Government School 2. West St. George Secondary School - Belair 3. Glad Tidings Tabernacle Pre School – Gomea 4. Gomea Methodist Church and Pre School 5. St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church - Gomea 6. Doris McKie Learning Resource Centre – Upper Cane Hall 7. Dorsetshire Hill Evangelical Church
1. Golden Years Centre – Buccament 2. Buccament Bay Secondary School 3. Layou Grace and Truth Campsite 4. Layou Miracle Church School 5. Central Leeward Secondary School - Peters Hope 6. Grace and Truth Church Barrouallie 7. Barrouallie Learning Resource Centre 8. Barrouallie Government School 9. Kingdom Hall Ministries - Barrouallie
MARRIAQUA
NORTH LEEWARD
1. Georgetown Community Centre 2. Georgetown Secondary School 3. Georgetown Primary School 4. Chester Cottage Community Centre 5. Pamelus Burke Government School - Byera 6. Covenant Seventh Day Adventist Church – South Rivers 7. South Rivers Methodist School 8. Emmanuel Baptist Church – South Rivers 9. South Rivers Learning Resource Centre 10. Park Hill Government School 11. Park Hill Community Centre 12. Park Hill Evangelical Church 13. George Stephens Sr. Secondary School – Colonarie
1. Kingdom Life Tabernacle – Mesopotamia 2. Marriaqua Government School 3. Emmanuel High School - Mesopotamia 4. Streams of Power Church – Carrierre 5. Evesham Learning Resource Centre 6. Evesham Seventh Day Adventist Church 7. Richland Park International Pentecostal Assembly 8. Richland Park Methodist Church 9. Richland Park Seventh Day Adventist Church 10. Light of Truth Church of God Seventh Day Richland Park 11. Mountain View Academy – Richland Park 12. Richland Park Government School 13. St. John's Evangelist Roman Catholic Church Cane End
1. Fitz Hughes Government School 2. Chateaubelair New Testament Church of God 3. Chateaubelair Faith and Life Pentecostal Church 4. Petit Bordel Secondary School 5. Rose Hall New Testament Church of God 6. Rose Hall Community Centre 7. Rose Bank Community Centre 8. World Wide Mission Church & Preschool – Spring Village 9. Spring Village Methodist Church 10. Spring Village Seventh Day Adventist Church 11. Westwood Methodist Church - Coulls Hill 12. Troumaca Government School 13. Troumaca Ontario Secondary School
SOUTH CENTRAL WINDWARD
KINGSTOWN
1. Greggs Government School 2. Christopher Bernard Pre-school – Mt. Grenan 3. New Grounds Primary School 4. North Union Secondary School 5. South Central Windward Learning Resource Centre – North Union 6. Diamonds Government School - Diamonds 7. Lowmans Windward Anglican School – Lowmans 8. Lauders Primary School
1. Dorsetshire Hill Government School 2. The Church of the Ascension (Sion Hill Anglican Church) 3. Sion Hill Government School 4. Faith Evangelistic Outreach Church - Sion Hill 5. Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints – Kingstown Park 6. Gospel Hall Church - Kingstown 7. New Testament Church of God - Wilson Hill 8. Faith Temple Church - New Montrose 9. Lodge Village Government School 10. New Testament Church - Lodge Village 11. Redemption Sharpes Community Centre – Redemption Sharpes 12. Church of God Worldwide Mission Pentecostal Redemption Sharpes 13. Dr. J.P. Eustace Memorial School - Edinboro 14. Fundamental Bible Church - Gibson Corner
NORTH CENTRAL WINDWARD
SOUTH WINDWARD 1. New Prospect Primary School -Simon 2. Adelphi Secondary School 3. New Creation Baptist Church –Peruvian Vale 4. Biabou Church of Christ 5. Biabou Methodist Church 6. South Windward Learning Resource Center Biabou 7. Calder Seventh Day Adventist Church 8. Calder Primary School 9. St. Clair Dacon Secondary School- Carapan 10. Mount Coke Methodist Centre – Stubbs 11. Stubbs Seventh Day Adventist Church 12. Argyle Primary School EAST ST. GEORGE 1. Mt. Moriah Seventh Day Adventist Church & Development Centre – Belvedere 2. Brighton Government School 3. Fair Hall Primary School 4. Calliaqua Town Hall 5. Calliaqua Anglican School 6. St. Paul Parish Hall (Anglican Church Hall) – Calliaqua
SOUTH LEEWARD 1. Lowmans Leeward Anglican Primary School 2. Apostolic Faith Mission Church - Campden Park 3. Wesleyan Holiness Church - Campden Park 4. Campden Park Community Baptist Church 5. Campden Park (Bethel) Secondary School 6. South Leeward Learning Resource Centre Questelles 7. Apostolic Faith Mission Church – Questelles 8. Seventh Day Adventist Church – Clare Valley 9. Clare Valley Community Centre 10. Rillan Hill Community Centre 11. Rillan Hill Roman Catholic Church 12. Paradise Seventh Day Adventist Church – Vermont 13. Buccament Government School - Dubois
NORTHERN GRENADINES 1. Bequia Anglican Primary School - Port Elizabeth, Bequia 2. Evangelical Church - Port Elizabeth, Bequia 3. Pentecostal Church - Union Vale, Bequia 4. Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Friendship Bay, Bequia 5. Apostolic Faith Mission - Paget Farm, Bequia 6. St. Michael’s Catholic Church and Pre-School Hamilton, Bequia 7. Mustique Community Center 8. Mustique Christian Assembly 9. Community Hall – Mustique SOUTHERN GRENADINES 1. Canouan Anglican Church 2. Canouan Roman Catholic Church 3. Canouan Kindergarten – Grand Bay 4. Canouan Society Lodge 5. Canouan Seventh Day Adventist Church 6. Wells of Living Water Church - Canouan 7. Mayreau Government School 8. Mayreau Recreational Centre (Roman Catholic Church) 9. Ashton Gospel Hall Church – Union Island 10. St Matthias Anglican Church – Ashton, Union Island 11. Rocky Hill Seventh Day Adventist Church Ashton, Union Island 12. Union Island Baptist Church – Ashton, Union Island 13. Clifton Pre School – Union Island 14. Learning Resource Centre – Ashton, Union Island 15. St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church - Clifton, Union Island 16. Union Island Secondary School
20. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN
General Hurricane information originates over tropical or subtropical waters and has a closed low-level circulation. Cyclones with wind Hurricanes are speeds that exceeds 74 tropical cyclones - storms mph (64 knots) and that rotate counter circulate clockwise with wind (counterclockwise in the speeds in excess of 74 Northern Hemisphere mph (kmh). and clockwise in the Most hurricanes form Southern Hemisphere) over warm seas near the are referred to as equator. They are hurricanes in the created when the sun Atlantic, and typhoons in heats the ocean surface, the Eastern and Central causing heated water Pacific Oceans. The vapor to rise, condense classifications for all and form clouds. These tropical cyclones are: clouds begin to spiral as * Tropical the earth rotates. More Disturbance: A rotary air is pulled underneath circulation in the upper and a large vortex is atmosphere that formed. produces little to no effect on the surface. Stages of a Hurricane: They are fairly common occurrences in the A tropical cyclone is a tropics. rotating, organized system of clouds and * Tropical Depression: thunderstorms that
hat exactly is a Hurricane:
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A low-pressure area that produces some rotary circulation on the ocean’s surface. Tropical depressions have sustain wind speeds of less than 39 mph. * Tropical Storm: A low area with a distinct rotary circulation. Tropical Storms have winds speeds of 39 to 73 mph. * Hurricane: a lowpressure area with a pronounced rotary circulation. Hurricane wind speeds are at least 74 mph and can reach over 200 mph in strong Category 5 hurricanes. Many hurricanes measure 300 miles across, but they have been known to span a 600 mile diameter.
Advisories
Advisories warn us of impending danger from tropical cyclones. Here are the advisories to note during hurricane season. * Tropical Storm Watch: Sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are possible within the specified area within 48 hours. * Tropical Storm Warning: Sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are expected within the specified area within 36 hours. * Hurricane Watch: Sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected within the specified area within 48 hours. * Hurricane Warning: Sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected within the specified area within 36 hours.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022.21.
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22. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Between a rock and ⁄⁄ Dear George, I WANT YOU to give me some advice. A female friend told me that her husband caught her in bed with another woman and he vowed to kill her. She believes he is very serious because he does not usually make idle threats. She has asked me to assist her in getting rid of him before he follows through with his threat. I told her flat out no, and she threatened to show my wife pictures of she and me in compromising positions. If my wife sees those pictures I know my marriage is over but at the same time I cannot see myself going to jail for her. She told me that with her husband out of the way I would have full access to her. Sex with her is exceptional but I cannot bring myself to agree to do what she is asking. Further, I am not ready to risk my marriage because I do love my wife. I am between a rock and a very hard place.
Sleepless Nights.
Dear Sleepless Nights, If your friend wishes to engage in criminal activities, let her do so on her own. Do not allow yourself to be lured into making the mistake of becoming an accomplice of any sort. If that results in your infidelity being exposed then so be it. You at least would stand a chance to either renew your commitment to your marriage or start afresh if the chips do not fall in your favour. Encourage your friend to report her husband’s threats to the police and to desist from thinking about taking the law into her own hands. Check yourself and start making moves to improve on your relationship with your wife, and that may very well begin with an honest confession.
George
A case of child abuse know what else to do. I have begged her not to be so brutal with her MY NEXT door neighbour and I are in a daughter and told her up tangle and the root cause front that she is wrong of that is how she treats to be doing what she is doing. Her response, “I her 10-year-old must mind my own daughter. business”. Is she right She beats her to tell me that? daughter for no good I believe she has a reason. There are cuts and bruises all over this psychiatric problem but I’m no doctor. child’s body and still there is no letting up. The mother would use Concerned Neighbour anything she could get Dear Concerned her hands on - pieces of Neighbour, pipe, board, electrical wire, you name it. Her It is your business to daughter has run into intervene if you are a my house for protection witness to a child being many times. beaten in such a Honestly, I do not
Dear George,
manner. It matters not if it is at the hands of a parent. Children have rights and that includes being cared for and protected by their parents. The harm that is inflicted by this parent on this minor is a clear violation of her (child’s) rights. If she would not listen to you then you should get an authoritative voice to educate, letting her know the legal consequences that can accompany her indiscriminate actions. Bravo to you for speaking up.
George
He hurt me to the core Dear George, MY HUSBAND gave me blood that saved my life some years back. He recently said to me, while we were into one of our frequent arguments, that he regretted giving me his blood. Those words hurt me to the core and as a result I cannot love him the way I used to. He has apologized to me several times but I do not believe he is really sorry. Our relationship has obviously been affected and it seems neither one of us is prepared to do anything to fix it.
Hurt bad Dear Hurt bad,
Words do hurt and can cause irreparable damage. In your case, however, this may not be so. In the heat of the moment people do say hurtful things just to find leverage and to get even and not because what’s said is true. Your husband has apologized after realizing the negative weight of his words. I suggest that both of you sit with a marriage counsellor and work through this. Give your husband the benefit of the doubt and use this experience as a learning experience.
George
V TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) Discover opportunities based on the individuals you mingle with this week. Don't let the cat out of the bag. Uncertain get rich quick schemes will not be as lucrative as you anticipate. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) There's a good chance that they won't come back. Secret affairs may be brought out in the open. Get together with friends and do something entertaining but not too expensive. Your lover probably won't put up with your behavior. CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) You can invest in profitable ventures. You can meet friends who will let you know how valuable you are. Try to understand their point of view. You won't impress anyone by being overly generous. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Let others know what your intentions are and be honest in your approach. Erratic behavior at home may be hard to handle. Hassles with your boss are sure to erupt if you speak your mind. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) You will not be able to trust someone you work with. New hair, new outfit, new you. Older family members will make demands on your time. Family outings will make you feel secure and happy.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Uncertainties about your home may cause tension. You are best to sit back and think it through, rather than add to the ranting and raving. You must make them stand on their own two feet regardless of how much you want to make things better for them. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) Make changes to your home that will be pleasing to everyone involved. It will be all around you. Be careful not to show your temper when dealing with the boss. You need to do more things that you enjoy. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) It might be time to do some of those chores at home. You may find that your boss is not delighted with your work lately. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Snap out of it. Plan your day thoughtfully, but try not to rely on others. Sudden changes regarding colleagues may surprise you. Your high energy should be spent pleasing your mate. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21.- FEB. 19) You'll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it. Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) You're in need of love. Someone around you may not be trustworthy. You need to look into ways to change your self-image. Don't promise to deliver the goods if you aren't positive that you can meet the deadline.
ACROSS 1. Some computer keys 5. Cliff 10. Tom and Katie’s kid 14. Yemen coastal city 15. Prefix before –pathic 16. Gem 17. Not doable 18. Flawed 19. Unassisted 20. Like nothing before it 23. Slow 24. Adjust 25. Heretofore, for a poet 26. X-mas story beginning 30. Military helicopter 34. Roof hanger 36. “Help ___ the way!” 37. Momentous 42. Tahari of fashion 43. Concert crowd’s shout 44. Early October babies 47. Popular Asian fare 48. Roe 51. Good fellers 53. Monkeyshine 55. Stunning 60. At no cost, In Germany 61. Connect 62. A law ___ itself 63. A Norwegian king 64. At full throttle 65. Roger of “Cheers” 66. Cruise ship stop 67. Simmons competitor 68. Whirl DOWN 1. Snarl 2. Lover 3. Off with you! 4. Muzzle 5. Fish species 6. Untangle your hair
7. Eastern V.I.P. 8. Take in again 9. Spanish inn 10. Ring insert 11. Atop 12. Dialed 13. Corsica, par example 21. Score 22. Gymnast’s feat 27. Neighbor of III. and Mich. 28. Post-exercise feeling 29. Bias 31. Evidence collectors 32. Dearie 33. School subj. 34. Repetitious 35. Sear 37. Migratory fish 38. Oscarnominated role for smith
39. Can be prime…. 40. Start of many an ode’s title 41. Evergreen shrub 45. Cut 46. Some mattresses 48. Expressed an opinion 49. Let off 50. Merchant ship
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) Don't allow colleagues to put unreasonable pressure on you. You may find that your plans will cost a little more than you had expected. Put some energy into getting back into shape.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 23.
52. Slug liquid 54. Blue shade 55. WWW addresses 56. Duck 57. Time between birthdays 58. Going strong 59. Memorable Lisa 60. Data Act, abbr.
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24. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
„Adversities affected us „– Martin HEAD COACH of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Volleyball team- Eardley Martin, is not making an excuse for the eventual fifth place in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Championship that ended in Antigua and Barbuda last Sunday night, but contends there were some “adversities”. St. Vincent and the Grenadines entered as the defending team, having won the title in 2018, the
Small comes up for SVG DESPITE being dethroned as the number one team in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) area, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Jahmal Small was among those copping individual awards. Small took the Best Setter award in the Senior Men’s ECVA Championships when the 2022 edition concluded last Sunday night, 10th July, at the YMCA Indoor Facility in St. John’s, Antigua. He had 196 attempts at setting. Among his attempts 134 were still and 58 were running. He had 4 faults to finish with an average of 5.8 average per set. Small contributed significantly to St. Vincent and the Grenadines topping Jahmal Small – the Setting component with an SVG’s only spark overall statistic of 233 at the recent attempts, inclusive of 165 still Eastern Caribbean and 63 running, with 5 faults; Volleyball ending with a team average of Championship. 6.30 per set. Other Individual Awards Antigua and Barbuda’s Adrian Constant was named the Most Valuable Player. The left-handed Constant, who plays in the Opposite position, was also named Best Opposite and Best Scorer. The two Best Outside Hitters were Jamarie James — Antigua and Barbuda - and Sheldon Descartes — St. Lucia. The Best Middle Blockers were Tevin St. Jean — St. Lucia, and Ethan Bolan — Dominica, while the Best Server was Dominica’s Yahn Florent and Best Spiker was Ethan Bolan. Dominica’s Yashid Auguiste was adjudged the Best Receiver and Grenada’s Shevon Gludd the Best Libero. Host Antigua and Barbuda took the Championship title ahead of St. Lucia; St. Maarten, third; and Grenada, fourth. St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who won the last championship held in 2018, had to settle for fifth place, with Bermuda docking in sixth. St. Kitts and Nevis — seventh, Dominica — eighth, and Anguilla - ninth.
last occasion the championship was held. They were seeded as one of the top contenders. However, two early losses against arch rivals — St. Lucia and St. Maarten, readily stalled the Vincentian’s progress. As a consequence of flight delays, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines team cleared the protocol at the VC Bird International Airport and headed straight to the YMCA Indoor Facility in St John’s. This meant that their scheduled match versus St. Lucia got going just before midnight on Wednesday, 6th July. Despite this discomfort, SVG took the St. Lucians to five sets, eventually losing: 25-22, 18-25, 25-23, 18-25, 15-13, And, things got worse. After completing their opening match well into Thursday morning, the Vincies had to return for another fixture at 11am versus St. Maarten and another against Dominica from 5:00pm the same day. SVG lost to St. Maarten - 25-22, 16-25, 25-18, 2517 — but managed to trump Dominica - 25-21, 25-17, 25-20, Martin lamented, “Based on the schedule we were forced to play three matches in less than 24 hours … Straight off the plane and on to the court; the players did not get enough rest.” Additionally, the Vincentians, like other teams, were challenged by some issues surrounding their accommodation. According to Martin, who is also the President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Volleyball Association, what transpired with the fixturing,
The SVG Senior Men’s Volleyball team. Head Coach- Eardley Martin is standing at right. “This did not augur well for one of the largest competitions in the ECVA, plus the other issues with accommodation and so on.” In all, nine countries competed for honours. Five were in Pool A, while St. Vincent and the Grenadines was among the four lodged in Pool B. St. Vincent and the Grenadines played the thirdplace team in Pool A, and dismissed them 25-20, 2510, 25-20, to gain the fifth spot. But, despite not living up to their billings, Martin is confident that his players will bounce back in future championships, as they have youth on their side. “Most of the players are under 25, so they have more years to offer, so we have just to work hard and come again,” Martin projected. Antigua and Barbuda won the title, ahead of St. Lucia, with St. Maarten docking third and Grenada, fourth. Sixth was Bermuda; with St. Kitts and Nevis placing seventh; Dominica, eighth; and ninth was Anguilla.
SVG wins two titles at Junior CASA JAYDEN GEORGE secured the Under-13 Boys title and Jaydon Williams took the Boys Under-15 title, as St Vincent and the Grenadines pouched two golds in the Singles category of the 2022 Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships. The moments of glory came last Tuesday, July 12, at the Georgetown Club in Guyana. Facing Owen Rosorea of the Cayman Islands in the final, George won 11-5, 11-4, 11-4. In the case of Williams, he champed 11-5, 11-2, 7-11, 11-8 over Nicholas Lequay of Trinidad and Tobago in the title match. Before Jayden George – U-13 CASA Champ.
reaching the final, George beat Brenno Da Silva of Guyana 11-2, 11-2, 11-0 in the quarter finals. He then swished Daniel Sealey of Barbados 11-5, 11-1, 11-2 in the semi- final. Meanwhile, Williams got past Noah Ramaran of Guyana 11-2, 11-3, 11-1, in the quarter final and beat Chad De Abreu 11-3, 111, 11-3 in his semi- final match up. The other Vincentian players who competed in the championships were Ciara George and Nadira Morgan. Ciara George, who contested the Girls Under-15, lost her quarter final encounter with Rose Paulos of the Cayman Islands, 12-10, 2-11, 11-0, 5-11, 7-11 , but won her consolation quarter final fixture versus Trinidadian Mya Francois, 11-8, 11-8, 11-5. In her consolation semi- final play, George overcame Olivia Sherratt of the Cayman Islands, 3-11, 11-6, 11-5, 11-8.
She, though, lost the consolation final 8-11, 3-11, 6-11, to Melanna Lammtagne of the Cayman Islands. After trumping 11-0, 11-1, 11-0 Karissa Jaydon Mungal in the quarter Williams – finals, Morgan was U15 CASA beaten by Katherine Champ. Rusden of Jamaica 511, 5-11, 1-11, in the semi-finals. Morgan finally lost 5-11, 6-11, 5-11, to Sanjana Nallipati in the third place play off. George thus placed sixth in the Girls Under15 and Morgan had to settle for fourth place in the Girls Under-17 age group. The Vincentian team was accompanied by Coach- Amber Glasgow.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 25.
Sports
Stand-in netball coach upbeat DESPITE being swept 3-0 by the Barbados Gems in a three-match International Netball friendly series last weekend, stand-in Head Coach of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines teamNatasha Baptiste is not daunted by the results. Instead, she thinks that the matches served well for her team, as they ramped up preparations for the Netball World Qualifiers set for Jamaica in October. Noting that some tactical flaws were exposed, Baptiste said, “… we were able to recognize the areas that we need to work on… Even though we knew it before, the matches confirmed that we have the ability to challenge the top brass in the Caribbean… We know that we can only go up from here onwards.”
She acknowledged, however, they needed to have the team a fitter bunch, as the lack of fitness showed up in the three matches. “…. we recognize that our players are not fit as they ought to and we knew that going into the series and it showed… Fitness was one of the key elements and if you are not fit it affects your mental capacity,” Baptiste commented. The squad is expected to intensify its training, especially as it relates to fitness. When the series commenced last Friday at the Widley Gymnasium, the Barbados Gems secured a 48-32 win. Leading the Vincentians’ scoring was Maryann Fredrick, who registered 26 of her 34 tries, and Shellisa Davis had 6 of her 10 attempts counted.
The SVG Senior Netball Team Stand-in Coach, Natasha Baptiste is standing at left, front row. In match two on Saturday, the Gems romped to a 57-44 victory. Frederick netted 36 of 43, Davis 3 of 7, and Joseann Antoine 5 of 7. The Vincentians gave the best performance in the finals match and led until the last quarter, when the Gems came from behind to win 55-46.
Coaching Committee installed In keeping with the intention to intensify the team’s training, a coaching committee has been
configured. The committee is headed by Godfrey Harry, with six department coaches. Skiddy Francis and Nicole SandyStevenson are the shooters coaches, with Dellarice Duncan and O’ Neil Cockburn, the mid court coaches. Vasha Adams and Moeth Gaymes make up the defence coaches. Adams who was part of the recent Barbados tour, has announced her retirement from national duties as a player.
Valley Sports Netball opens TWELVE TEAMS will compete in this year’s Vita Malt/Kingstown Co-operative Credit Union Valley Sports Netball Competition. This was confirmed last Sunday at the official opening of the Competition, at the Richland Park Hard Court. Sunday’s opening marked the return of netball to the Marriaqua area after a two-year break occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic. Geshell Peters, President of the Valley Sports Committee, organisers of the Netball Competition, expressed her delight in getting netball back in the area. “Netball is back in Richland Park after the two years break,” she declared as she addressed Sunday’s opening, “so we are happy to recommence our very vibrant netball competition.” Peters explained that “this year’s competition will be structured differently from previous years with two groups… with the objective of
Action in the finals of the Fast Five Competition, between High Park Combined and 3J’s Valley Strikers. Police Elite were adjudged winners of the March Past.
Champions.
having two groups is to High Park United are I.B.A. ALLEN ensure that we feature a the defending youth segment.” She called for support from the community, especially for the young VINCENTIAN Chester Morgan, who is the Director players, so as to ensure of Coaches and Camps for the North American, the competition is a Central American and Caribbean Athletic success. Association (NACAC) has been In the Fast Five leading the charge for the new competition that followed World Athletics’ Kids In Athletics the official opening (KIA) programme in the NACAC ceremony, High Park Area. United Combined With the initial pilot defeated 3J’s Valley programme now completed, Strikers 18-5 in the Morgan is busy organising the finals. NACAC Kids Athletics The teams registered Practitioner Training. to compete are: Group This component is a two-part One - TCCU Star Girls, undertaking, the first being for High Park United, North coaches from the EnglishLeeward Combined, J&G Chester Morgan speaking territories, set for the is eager to get Dominican Republic from 23rd to Scorchers, Police Elite, and Vultures; Group Two going with the 26th August. regional - BA Strikers, Greiggs, The other session targeting the 3Js Valley Strikers, Sion component of Spanish-speaking countries, takes the Kids In place from 26th to 28th August at Hill, Police Gems, and Athletics (KIA) a venue yet to be decided. RLP Girls. programme. Earlier this year, the new KIA Richland-Park-based
Geshell Peters, President of the Valley Sports Committee called for a display of a high level of discipline by players.
Morgan goes regional Programme was framed and taught to Physical Education teachers, staff of the Division of Sports and Physical Education as well as others in the community. As he looks One of the activities in eagerly towards the the KIA programme. programme’s full implementation, Morgan needs no convincing that the revised KIA Programme will be of great benefit to the NACAC member federations. He also holds the view that if worked in tandem with the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework, the KIA programme will yield good results for the practising coaches.
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26. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Culture and sports JUST LIKE Winston Soso the Vincentian calypsonian with a number of compositions, its congratulations to those who participated in Vincymas 2022. Wendell ‘Spleshie’ Goodridge in another view from the cultural window asked ‘Who to blame?’ That question surfaces frequently in today’s turbulent waters. West Indian fans and Vincentians in more aspects, will want explanations for their recent sufferings. Losses are a part of the learning and recovery process, but players will have to assess their approach to the 50 over version of the cricket game. Time was when the shorter version was a natural part of our stride. However, over a period of upheavals mainly having to do with financial issues, West Indies cricket tried to remain afloat. Caribbean people do not appreciate the contribution of sports men and women to regional development. When they are in full flow, they are showered with praise. When the glitter d]fades they are most often left to tend to their affairs on their own with the society paying scant regard to their health and welfare. I take this opportunity to continue birthday wishes to Linda Allen, residing at Arnos Vale. There was a celebration at the Arnos Vale Methodist Church last July 9. The choir paid her homage. Linda, a fixture at that House of worship, has passed the ‘keys’ to the organ to her daughter Janelle, and in true Anthony (Allen) there was a combination of musicians to mark the occasion, That included Saeed Bowman, one of Linda’s students, and he brought greetings from his band mate Geran Maule, another of Linda’s products. Linda is a legacy of her father Leopold Anthony. He passed away September 2016, just after his 95th birthday. Linda is intent on flowing her father’s footsteps and if her lifestyle is anything to go by, she is enjoying the fruits of the musical flavour that her father has injected. From the classroom teacher, to one specializing in Home Economics, Linda’s contribution to national development has been practical. Many women today have their roots in culinary arts from Linda. The training to Vincentian musicians including her son Michael ensures a reservoir of musicians. Her father was a music fanatic, a trait that Linda inherited. It may not have been her own desires, but more of a command. Leo took Linda under his tutelage from the time she took her first steps. When he needed a deputy, Linda was the automatic choice. It is no surprise that they both show this commitment to their endeavours for they have adopted the mantra: If music be the food of life let it play on.’
Velox wins Female TT Assessment Tournament UNICA VELOX took top honours in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA) Female Assessment Competition, which was held at the Sir James F. Mitchell Auditorium, NDP Headquarters, Kingstown, last weekend. The experienced Velox dropped one set but had a relatively comfortable victory over Shanecia Delpesche, 11-9, 5-11, 11-4, 11-2, in the finals. Velox booked her place in the finals after a 14-12, 11-3, 14-12 semi-final win over Leah Cumberbatch. Delpesche outplayed Roxann Williams 11-3, 11-8,11-9 in the other semi-final. Cumberbatch beat Williams in the third-place playoff. Following the Female Assessment Competition, the Female Assessment Champion Unica Velox SVGTTA released the following ranking: #1. Shanecia Delpesche receives her prize from Orville Haslam OD, President of the SVGTTA. with 27 points; #2 Leah Shanecia Cumberbatch - 25 points; #3. event is its National Championships which will Delpesche – lost Unica Velox — 21 points. begin on 12th August 2022, at the Table Tennis to Velox in the The Association’s next local Centre, West St. George Secondary School. finals.
Police Two: New T20 Champions POLICE TWO are the new title holders of the National Lottery Authorities/Neil Williams T20 Cricket Competition. They claimed the title when they beat defending title holder Guardian General Saints by 69 runs, in the final of the Competition’s 2022 edition, played at the Arnos Vale playing field, Sunday, 10th July. Desroy Maloney Police Two won the contributed 65 toss, opted to take first to Police Two’s Police Two – Champions strike and proceeded to SVG. winning total. post a formidable 206 for replay, 8 from 20 overs, built around failed to build any meaningful Desron Maloney, 65, and Dillon partnerships and were eventually Douglas, 67, who shared in a 94dismissed for 137 in 19 overs. run 4th wicket partnership. Seon Sween top scored with 32. Rayon Williams was Saints’ best Ramario Bibby, 2 for 12; and bowler picking up 4 for 22. Dillon Douglas, 2 for 31, were the Saints struggled in their
of T20 cricket in pick of the Police Two bowlers. Dillon Douglas, top scored with 67 in Police Two’s innings.
3 Vincentians in W’wards U19 team DESPITE relinquishing their title hold on Windward Islands Under19 cricket, St. Vincent and the Grenadines managed to secure three places in the Windward Islands’ Under-19 team to participate in the Cricket West Indies Championship, to be held in Trinidad and Tobago, July 1728. The three Vincentians called up for Windwards duty are: off spinner Luke Wilson, fast bowler Solomon Bascombe and wicketkeeper/batsman Reshawn Lewis. The full Windwards squad
reads: Stephan Pascal (Captain), Jelani Joseph, Edmund Morancie, Devonie Joseph Vice-Captain, Reshawn Lewis Devin Tyson, Kirsten Murray, Jerel Jeremiah, Mahid Lambert, Kevin Gassie, Tarrique Edward, Shanil Edward, Luke Wilson, Solomon Bascombe and Reshawn Lewis. Vincentian all-rounder Kodi Grant was named among the reserves.
Solomon Bascombe
Luke Wilson
SVG occupied the cellar position in the just concluded Windwards U19 Championship. Stories I.B.A. ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. 27.
Classifieds
Luta is new Consul General in New York From Backpage
Thomas went on to explain that ‘Luta’s’ appointment must be viewed against the reality that St. Vincent like most countries in the Caribbean, except perhaps Cuba, “does not have a trained diplomatic corps so you don’t have career diplomats who go from post to post representing the government. What we been having over the years in St. Vincent are essentially political appointees; the party wins and once a position becomes available, the party makes an
appointment based on who they think fits.”
(WKA/KH)
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FRIDAY, JULY
15, 2022
VOLUME 116, No.28
www.thevincentian.com
EC$1.50
LUTA IS NEW CONSUL GENERAL IN NEW YORK Prince in the position.
Reaction to ‘Luta’s’ appointment
about competencies and so on and so forth. I must say I don’t support that argument, I don’t see anything that says ‘Luta’ is not qualified for the job. In fact, ‘Luta’s’ personality makes him a very good fit for the job,” said Thomas. Cont’d on Page 27
The news of ‘Luta’s’ appointment met with mixed reaction. Some moved quickly to congratulate him while others labelled the appointment as “Curry Favour”, given his known support for the ruling Unity Labour Party. One public figure here, attorney at law and HOWIE PRINCE has been recalled as former Speaker of the this country Consul General in New House, Jomo Thomas, York. In a letter dated July 12, 2022 and Rondy ‘Luta’ Mc Intosh will have the solid support weighed in on the discussion during his posted on Facebook, Prince confirmed of his wife when he takes up his Consul General Plain Talk segment on that the Government of SVG had position in August.( Facebook photo) Boom FM SVG on recalled his appointment as SVG Tuesday morning. Consul General to the USA, and RONDY MCINTOSH, known in the entertainment circles Thomas said that he appointed Cultural Ambassador Mr. as ‘Luta’, and dubbed the ‘Crowd Motivator’, has a new believed ‘Luta’s’ Rondy ‘Luta’ Mc Intosh as his and perhaps his most challenging task ahead of him. personality could make replacement. He has been appointed this country’s Consul General in him the right person for Prince cited July 31, 2022 as New York. the job. effectively his last day in office, When THE VINCENTIAN contacted him last “I am hearing things signalling what he said was “full Wednesday, he acknowledged that he was familiar with the New York circuit. He was happy to be of service to his country and anticipated working with the Vincentian/USA diaspora. ‘Luta’ made it clear that there was no official announcement on the appointment and that he was “awaiting documents.” He declined making any “direct responses.” ‘Luta’, until his recent assignment in the Marketing Department of the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), served for many years in a similar department with the local operation of telecommunications giant Cable and Wireless. He was part of that company’s evolution through marketing brands from LIME to FLOW. In addition to his marketing responsibilities at NBC, he has been the anchor man on a programme called ‘Talk yo Talk’, which was aired on NBC Radio Attorney-at-law Jomo Thomas moved to put Tuesday mornings. Mc Intosh’s ‘Luta’ is expected to take up the post of Consul appointment into General from August 1, 2022, replacing Howie perspective.
Prince recalled as SVG/NY Consul General
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
retirement from the Public Service after 44 years of unbroken service except for two and a half years (2010 — 2012 on secondment) working for the UNDP in Trinidad and Tobago as Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist for Latin America and the Caribbean.” During those years, Prince said he served as “a Qualified Assistant Teacher, Programme Producer (Ministry of Education), Marketing Manager (Tourism), Chairman of the CDC, Director of NEMO and finally as Consul General to the USA.” In parting ways with his New York appointment, he recognised “the respectful outreach and partnerships of many organizations and individuals in NYC,” as making his stint in the USA so much easier. He also thanked the staff of the Consulate in NY and the Embassy in DC for their hard work and continuous support during his tenure. (KH) Howie Prince is said to have assumed duties in New York on the heels of ‘rumblings’ among the Vincentian diaspora.
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