THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 15-09-23

JAMAL ‘CRIBBIT’ FINCH IS DEAD

JAMAL ‘CRIBBIT’ FINCH is dead…dead at 41 years old.

He was shot and killed on Friday 8th September 2023 in Mala Village at about 11:55pm, while on his way home.

His death was met with very little, if any sympathy by persons at large, given his notoriety as it related to violent crime in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Finch was only 17, June 1999, when he made his presence felt in a most violent manner, almost severing an arm of Otis Shearman during a graduation ceremony of the Intermediate High School (IHS), held

at the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral.

Finch, himself, attended the Intermediate High School but it is unclear whether or not he completed the expected minimum five years at that institution.

The young man was in 2002 sentenced to three years in prison by High Court Judge Odel Adams after he changed his plea to guilty, with the judge describing the crime as “heinous’ and that “it calls for life imprisonment!”

But even as he awaited the trial for wounding, Finch, in 2001, received a seven-month suspended prison

sentence for possession of an unlicensed firearm, ammunition and marijuana.

In March 2004 Finch was again in trouble with the law, when during a search of his person he was found to be in possession of cocaine and marijuana.

By June 2007, during a spate of shootings in capital Kingstown, the aim turned on Finch. He was early in the year shot in the face while walking in Paul’s Avenue where he is said to have been resident at the time.

Later in the year, he was at the

Continued on Page 3.

VINCENTIAN ‘DRUG LORD’ SHOT AND KILLED

IT DIDN’T TAKE LONG FOR NEWS of the death of Elvis Dexter Chance, a Vincentian national, to flood social media platforms here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

According to the official report from neighbouring Grenada, where, from indications he had remained after a court case that ended in 2022, Chance was shot and killed in a vehicle in Woburn, St. George, Grenada, on Monday, September 11, 2023.

On Tuesday, one day after the murder, police said they were not ruling out the possibility of it being a cross-border criminal act.

The newly-appointed head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Grenada Police Force, Superintendent Esau Pierre told a news conference with regards to the murder, that “because Grenada has

Continued on Page 3.

Jamal ‘Cribbit’ Finch did not escape death this time around as he might have done on previous occasions.

Elvis Dexter Chance was killed in a style which Grenadians Police say is not common to Grenada.

ISEP awards first scholarship

“IT IS A DREAM COME TRUE”was the reaction of 16-year-old Kayla Tiara Akacia Bobb, on learning that she was the recipient of the first Scholarship awarded by the Isle of Man-St. Vincent and the Grenadines Education Programme (ISEP).

Kayla will pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma at King William’s College (KWC) in the Isle of Man. The IB is a two-year course of study which sets a strong foundation for entrance to leading universities worldwide. It blends a solid academic curriculum with other skills, intended to ground an individual for life.

Her scholarship will cover all tuition, board, lodging and almost every other expense she will incur in the Isle of Man.

Kayla lives in Biabou with her mother and 4 siblings. She attended the Biabou Methodist (Primary) School, where on graduation in 2018, she received the Most Outstanding in Mathematics award and placed second in her school in the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment Examinations.

Kayla attended Girls High School where she studied 14 subjects of the Caribbean Council Examinations (one in Form 4 and 13 in Form 5). She obtained passes in all 13 subjects taken this year, receiving Grade Ones in most subjects. She graduated from secondary school in July 2023 and received her School’s awards for Social

Studies and Clothing and Textiles. Her additional achievements include being a recipient of awards from the Basil Charles Education Foundation Scholarship, and bursaries from the Taiwanese Education Scholarship Programme and the Norma Keizer Scholarship Fund.

Kayla received awards in 2020, 2021 and 2022 for her submissions in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition — a gold award each for her poem titled “Blessed Land of Paradise” (2020) and her speech, written as if from the leader of a Commonwealth nation after the Pandemic on “We have fought the good fight” (2021), as well as a bronze award for her speech “Resilience and Recovery” in 2022.

Kayla is passionate about making a meaningful contribution to her country and wants to be able to make a difference to future generations, so that they can grasp opportunities before them and follow their dreams.

About the ISEP

ISEP is a registered charity in the Isle of Man comprising a small group of volunteers from the Isle of Man and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, established to provide scholarships and travel grants to Vincentian students. ISEP embodies the theme the “Art of the Possible” which propounds that the

Jamal ‘Cribbit’

opportunities are endless for young people, no matter what their personal circumstances may be.

ISEP was launched in August 2022 with an inaugural programme which took 12 St. Vincent Community College students, together with two chaperones, to the Isle of Man for a unique educational 3-week summer programme.

ISEP’s first annual scholarship was opened for applications earlier this year via circulation of application information to all secondary schools through the Ministry of Education and an advertisement in the local newspapers. Shortlisted applicants were interviewed by a diverse panel of interviewers and Kayla emerged as the successful candidate amidst very close competition.

ISEP is fortunate to have the joint patronage of Her Excellency the Governor General of SVG and the Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man, as well as the full support of the Ministry of Education and other relevant stakeholders, including the Hon. Prime Minister and the Office of the UK Resident Commissioner. (Contributed)

Finch is dead Vincentian ‘drug lord’ shot and killed

Continued from Frontpage.

receiving end of gunfire once again, this time in Middle Street. He escaped with an injury to his right arm and a graze to his back.

By September of that year, Finch was convicted and received a three-year custodial sentence after he was found guilty of having six rounds of .38 special ammunition and one round of ninemillimeter ammunition. This followed an August 4 raid at house in Cane Hall which Finch and an associate occupied at the time.

Related Matter

In a related matter, a police report issued after a search on Finch’s residence at Sion Hill on Sunday 10th September, said that they recovered one (1) 9mm pistol and six rounds of ammunition.

Unconfirmed indications are that Finch was shot with a Draco semi-automatic pistol, which is believed to be the same type of weapon used in the July 19, 2023 shooting deaths of five males, just outside the NAPA building, Uptown, Kingstown.

Finch’s death brings the homicide count for the year to 37, inclusive of three shooting deaths during police action, and followed that of Jovanne Baptiste of Rose Place who was shot and killed in Buccament while on his way to work at the Sandals Beaches Resort construction site.

Continued from Frontpage.

porous borders, one can never eliminate the possibilities and movement of persons connected to the underworld.

“And as such, we will always up our guard … with respect to cross border criminality. With respect to this particular case, we continue our investigations and we will determine where the assailants originated from,” said Pierre.

Chance was no stranger to the world of illegal drugs.

As a matter of fact, many across the region referred to him as a ‘drug lord’, given his history of cases he was made to answer in connection with drug trafficking.

In 2011, Chance was one of four men found guilty of drug trafficking offences in connection with a 2008 coke bust in the British Virgin Islands, and was

sentenced to six years in prison.

The case stemmed from the arrest of Chance and six others, including Vincentians Gareth McDowell and Carlos Sutherland, after police seized 61.2 kilograms of cocaine valued at more than $1 million from a hidden compartment aboard a sailboat docked at the Hodges Creek Marina, Tortola.

The history of the case showed that Chance, who had returned to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was extradited from his homeland where he was held on remand since 2009.

After a lengthy trial, Chance was found guilty of importing cocaine, along with McDowall, Sutherland and one Dale Nibbs. However, Chance and fellow countrymen McDowell and Sutherland returned to their homeland as free men, following an Appeal Court ruling in their favour, in January 2014.

The decision was handed down in the Court of Appeal of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands after the three men would have spent a total of five years, all taken, in prison.

But it was not long after that Chance surfaced again in a matter related to narcotrafficking.

Chance was the lone Vincentian arrested and charged in August 2019 alongside Grenadian Bernard Spann and Jamaicans Ian White and Alrick Reynolds, in connection with the seizure of 40 kilograms of cocaine at Dr. Grooms, Point Salines, Grenada.

He was acquitted of all charges in July 2022.

Chance, 51, is originally from Chateaubelair, where residents there and in surrounding areas have reacted to his death with mixed feelings.

Kayla Bobb, ISEP Scholarship winner, and her mother Suzan Reece-Bobb.

Lawyer berates police promotions

Shamrock Pierre, who has been an acting corporal for almost seven years, and has again been overlooked for promotion.

Connell who was on his feet, in relation to a firearm matter, told the Court he was rising with a heavy heart, and in an upset and emotional tone of voice he lamented the exclusion of Pierre and others from the promotions.

Attorney Grant Connell has been active across the state at the magisterial level and therefore has a good impression of Prosecutors at this level.

Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS

AT LEAST one lawyer here is protesting the exclusion of several police officers from the list of recent promotions in the local constabulary.

And he is calling on magistrates and other lawyers to let their voices be heard.

Attorney Grant Connell made his feelings known at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday when he saw, sitting at the Bar Table, alongside prosecutor Renrick Cato, prosecutor

Connell rubbished the list, saying, “That list is a joke, I could point out some of the jokers.”

He pointed out that the police officers who do the work and make the sacrifices are not the ones who are being promoted.

“I see some officers here who reach Sergeant, all they do is shift files,” Connell said, and lamented, “No Magistrate saying anything, no lawyer saying anything.”

Referring to Pierre, Connell questioned, “How could you overlook a man for seven years?”

He noted that Pierre, a police officer for 20 years, has prosecuted in seven courts across the country, but remains at the rank of acting corporal which he has held for almost seven

years, while many others who have done far less work than he, have been promoted to various ranks.

“We are losing men physically, who are leaving the force to go elsewhere, and we are losing some mentally because they are frustrated,” Connell said and reiterated that the Chief Magistrate should make her voice heard when situations like this arise.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne did not comment on the promotions, but she disagreed with Connell that the list is a joke. She indicated that sometimes things are delayed, and advised to ‘keep working’.

Pierre’s service

Pierre was enlisted in the Police Force on May 14, 2003. He worked at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for about two years before moving to the Process Department where he worked as a Court Clerk assisting with the prosecution of a number of cases at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

In January 2017, he was the only constable

among five police officers who were seconded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), in an effort to bring all prosecutors under the direct supervision of the DPP. The others were then Inspector Nigel Butcher, now Assistant Superintendent then Station Sergeant; Elgin Richards now ASP, then acting Sergeant; Renrick Cato now Inspector, and then Corporal Delroy Tittle, now Sergeant.

Then Crown Counsel Karim Nelson, now Assistant DPP, had recommended Pierre to be among the five. His recommendation was seconded by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, now retired. Of those five officers, only Pierre and Cato remained at the DPP’s Office as Summary Prosecutors. The others have been transferred back to regular policing duties.

Pierre was promoted to act as Corporal on June 1, 2017. Prior to this, he was a constable for 14 years. He has prosecuted in all the Magistrate Courts in SVG, including Calliaqua, Georgetown, Barrouallie, Chateaubelair, Layou,

Mesopotamia, Biabou, and the Grenadines, in addition to the Serious Offenses Court, Kingstown Magistrate’s Court and Family Court.

When contacted on Tuesday, he declined to comment directly on the promotions, saying instead, “Promotions should be based on merit and competence, and it should be transparent. I am not sure what criteria they are using”. Others overlooked

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Connell said there are several other outstanding officers who have not been promoted, but he focused mainly on Pierre because Pierre was at the Bar table at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday when he (Connell) rose in relation to a firearm matter.

Connell said Sergeant Biorn Duncan was just recognized in the Caribbean as a top detective, above hundreds, yet he has been overlooked for promotion in SVG.

Among the other officers who were overlooked for promotions, he identified: “Corporal Lafleur

Accused child scorcher gets bail

JOSETTE GARRAWAY, a 42-year-old Vermont woman who is accused of burning her 12-year-old daughter on her vagina, has been granted bail.

She was on Wednesday, released on $12,000 bail with one surety after Court Clerk, Corporal 590 Kenroy Martin, informed the Court that the victim was out of the hospital.

Garraway was denied bail when she initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on August 29, after prosecutor Corlene Samuel, in her objections to bail, told the Court that the child was a 12-year-old who was warded at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital with serious burns.

She was remanded until Monday,

September 11, for bail review, pending an update on the victim’s condition, and the matter was transferred to the Serious Offenses Court.

However, when Garraway appeared at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the victim was still hospitalized, and asked that Garraway be further remanded.

When Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne inquired about the nature of the injuries, the prosecutor revealed that the child was burnt on her vagina.

The Magistrate further remanded the woman until Monday, September 18 for a detailed report on the victim’s condition. However, Garraway was

taken back to Court on Wednesday, September 13 after the victim was discharged from the hospital.

Court Clerk Martin did not object to bail but requested suitable surety and conditions.

Garraway, a domestic worker, has been charged with unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to the child, with intent. She was not required to plead.

The woman is alleged to have used an electric (clothes) iron to burn her daughter on her vagina during an incident in Vermont on August 29.

As part of her bail conditions, Garraway was ordered to have no contact with the victim, surrender her travel documents, and report to the

Williams who was awarded top female cop last year; Inspect Nolan Dalaway whose record speaks for itself; and Constable Sheffield Joseph, who remains firm and committed, despite the odds.”

The lawyer said these officers are here, there, and everywhere and noted that some officers have been constables for over 22 years.

“The reality is that many good officers have left and many more will leave when they reach the 20-year mark. Perhaps we have to get rid of the three P’s. One is pettiness, the other two I think everybody knows.”

Vermont Police Station twice a week. Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and she is not to leave the state without the permission of the Serious Offenses Court or the High Court.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the child, and her two siblings, are in custody of the state.

The matter has been adjourned to November 27.

Shamrock Pierre has been an acting Corporal since 2017 and a Summary Prosecutor even before that.

Josette Garraway covered her face when leaving the Court last Wednesday.

SVBLA reaches out to the needy

THE ST. VINCENT BUILDING & LOAN ASSOCIATION (SVBLA) partnered with Red Root SVG, a local NGO, to donate school supplies to three families with children in need of support.

Through the initiative, dubbed ‘The Backpack Giveback’, Antonia John and Delicia Francis, who are now first formers at the Intermediate High School, as well as Ronald Isaacs, a student at the Chateaubelair Methodist School, received backpacks with school supplies courtesy SVBLA.

Supplies included geometry sets, water bottles, drawing books, folders, notebooks, crayons, colour pencils, exercise books, pencil cases, pens and pencils.

The handouts were in keeping with SVBLA’s recognition that (re-) entering the classroom environment can be stressful on its own, but returning to school without the necessary

supplies can increase feelings of anxiety and concern.

The financial institution also recognises that helping children succeed today builds a better future for everyone.

In short, the SVBLA was happy, through this small gesture, to be able to alleviate some of the pressure on families that need support, especially since many families spend hundreds of dollars to send their children back to school.

Red Root SVG expressed its pleasure with the collaboration and also cited the successful outcome of its back-to-school campaign which encompassed the distribution of essential supplies including backpacks, school shoes, educational materials, and notebooks. One student who benefited accordingly was Janila Francois who will be attending the Fitz Hughes Government School.

Furthermore, as part of this

BBO continues student-assistance programme

AMIDST the growing cost of school supplies in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, eleven graduates of the Layou Government School who began their secondary education this school year, were recipients of blessings from the Layou-based Becket Benefit Organization (BBO).

At a presentation ceremony held last Monday, Sept. 11, at Layou RC Centre, the BBO made a donation that included a Laptop Computer, eleven backpacks and eleven gift certificates, the certificates being redeemable at Jack’s Enterprises.

The Laptop was donated by former President and founding member of BBO- Mr Marcus Martin, and was awarded to the top performing student in the 2023 CSEC - Zavid Lee.

The other recipient were: Kshawn Duncan, Kanda Homer, Tiannah La Borde, Taijuan Lee, Aaden Newsome, Kiara Sempa, Bernard Williams, Kyle Williams, Jadiah Stephen and Jahlil Rodney.

Master of Ceremonies and founder of the BBO -Dr. Alston BECKET Cyrus broke into song as an encouragement to the students, doing a rendition of the Mighty Sparrow’s ‘Education’.

Mrs. Stella Quow — retired teacher with

commendable effort, parents made valuable contributions by providing gently-used textbooks, and in return, they received the necessary schoolbooks required for their children’s academic journey.

SVBLA has a tradition of supporting communities having previously teamed up Red Root SVG in 2021 to distribute Christmas gifts to families in SVG, as well as continuously engaging in community efforts. Education and educating the community is also near and dear to SVBLA hence the existence of its scholarship programme as well as its support of the recently concluded Girls Empowerment Summit which saw SVBLA collaborating to present a financial literacy session to girls between 10 and 15 years of age, as well as supporting the recently concluded NBC Fun Day and Junior Jeopardy on-air gameshow. (Source: SVBLA)

some forty years’ experience, reminded the recipients/ graduates of the challenges ahead.

A vote of thanks was delivered by parent Miss Jack who thanked the BBO for its continuing goodwill and encouraged the students to take care of the items. (CD)

Candice Sealey – Marketing Officer, SVBLA (left) and Phylicia Alexander Scipio-Lavia - Founder of Red Root SVG Inc. (right) with recipients of school supplies and guardians.

Recipients of assistance from the BBO with members of the BBO and parents at last Monday’s presentation cermony.

Zavid Lee, Layou Government top CSEC performer from the Layou Government School, received his laptop from Marcus Martin.

Environment-focused Competition launched

(L-R): Both Winsberth Quow and Joan Ryan, General Manager and Public Relations Officer respectively of the CWSA, echoed that the data collected should increase the students’ awareness of the environment.

STUDENTSthroughout St.

Vincent and the Grenadines can contribute to the nation’s cleanliness by keeping their schools in proper condition. By June 2024, the result of the first year’s Environmentally Friendly Schools Competition will be announced. Ten secondary schools and 15 Primary institutions will be rewarded.

That Environmentally Friendly School Competition was launched last Tuesday (sept 12) at the Operations Room of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA).

It is a collaborative initiative involving the CWSA, VINLEC, the Public Health Department, the Sustainable Development Unit and Coreas Distribution Ltd.

Addressing the launch, Joan Ryan, Public Realtions Officer at CWSA, expressed

the hope that the school population take part. She sees that as a platform for building community awareness of health and safety concerns.

Ryan notes that linkages with other sectors can be strengthened because of the competition. Students are encouraged to research environmental trends and get information on pollution around them. That data can be used in exams and help with protecting the environment.

Winsberth Quow, General Manager of CWSA, was passionate about his country, envisioning it becoming the “cleanest country in the world.”

Quow knows the danger of pollutants, seen in acts of littering on streets, in schools, vans, bank sides, opens lots, abandoned properties, rivers,

and beaches.

Noise concerns Quow. He warns about damage to ears because of high volume.

Garbage collection is a feature of and landfills are managed by the CWSA.

He advised that restrictions on plastic, use of hydro and solar for generating electrical power, the ban on Styrofoam products and other methods of conservation contribute to environmental stability, and in this regard he highlighted the benefits of the All Island Recycle (AIR) operation which

he contends bring aesthetic and economic value.

He is pleased with the reduction of derelict vehicles on roads and the programme of ‘white goods’ collection every six months. The next one is scheduled for September and Quow notes homeowners’ anxiety for that event.

Bria King, Public Relations Officer at VINLEC, described the competition as having “potential for positive change;” as having impact beyond the competition and saw no reason

Police PR Chief tops promotions

HEAD of the Police, Junior Simmons, is among the 97 recently elevated officers of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), effective June 27.

Simmons, a former Assistant Superintendent, now holds the rank of Superintendent, while former Inspector Junior Nero, takes the rank of Assistant Superintendent.

The other elevated officers include former Station Sergeants Dyawne McKenzie, Ashlyn Samuel Bristol, Renrick Cato, and Godwin Charles who have moved to inspectors; former Sergeants 52 Bernadette Matthews, 601

Ken Samuel, 444 Kenny Jones, 669 Keon Glasgow, 632

Cuthbert Morris, and 50

Hakem Smart who have been promoted to Station Sergeants.

Former Corporals 686 Gerald Gould, 335 Orlando Collins, 752 Gregory Lowman, as well as Acting Sergeants

403 Nigel John, 281 Egbert Maloney, 292 Kendal Horne, 147 Marley Lewis, 638 Keil Rodgers, 302 Hoyte, and 758 Jarod Lewis have all been promoted to Sergeants.

Former Corporals 368 Cliff James, 500 Uist Francis, 613 Nevris Samuel, and 493

Jermaine John, will act as Sergeants.

Former acting Corporals 344 Mattis Humphrey, 831

Kekeisha Andrews, 743

Raycon John, 412 Ronald Noel, 82 Cordell Campbell, 92 Delroy Dasent, 714 Saville Howe, 507 Jevon Patrick, 208 Salvan Browne, 694 Thominacina Duncan, 496

Glenroy Layne, 314 Pedro Jobe, and Constable 383 Juanita Joseph are now Corporals; while former constables 585 Kawanza Phillips, 556 Tadius McAlister, 365 Shevern McDonald, 716 Keldon Daniel, 693 Joel Williams, 701 Shom Williams, 540 Darell Sam, 923 Devern Daniel and 245 Roland Dasent have moved to

acting Corporals.

Former Lieutenant Commander of the Coast Guard Deon Harry is now Acting Commander, while former Lieutenant Enos Hamilton takes the rank of Lieutenant Commander. SubLieutenant Vinton John will act as Lieutenant Commander.

Former Sub-Lieutenant Frankie John has moved to Lieutenant, while former SubLieutenant Kimron Beache will act as Lieutenant.

Former Chief Petty Officers 298 Bragurgon Glasgow, 616 Ceyon Hinson, and Gordon Charles are elevated to SubLieutenants while former

why it should not be a success. She commended the CWSA for its initiative.

Chief Education Officer Kay Martin Jack saw the competition as a means of increasing environmental awareness. Students will benefit from working together, she suggested.

Kurtley Jack, Safety Coordinator at Coreas Distribution Ltd., welcomed the exercise as an extension of classroom activity and saw it as an opportunity for “each one to teach one.” (WKA)

Assistant Superintendent Junior Simmons is now a Superintendent and remains head of the RSVGPF Public Relations and Complaints Department.

Chief Petty Officer 155 Celia Charles will act as SubLieutenant. (HH)

Students, teachers and others attended the launch of the Competition.

CWP Primary observes anniversary

CELEBRATINGthe 34th Anniversary of a milestone is usually an occasion of heightened focus.

This did not matter to the C W Prescod Primary School which, on Monday, September 11, 2023, the school observed it 34 th Anniversry of its opening.

The occasion was observed by a Church Service, held at the Kingstown Methodist Church, and attended by the school’s current population, former head teachers, deputies, staff members, past students, Ministry of Education officials, Parliamentary Representative for East Kingstown- Fitzgerald Bramble, friends of the institution and other well-wishers.

The Church Service featured renditions on the steelpan and violin, as well as a dance and Chorale Speech, samples of presentations for which the School has received acclamation over the years. All cultural performances were done by present and past students.

And, as part of the reenactment, the students, staff and parents, marched from the venue to the school’s current location, as was the case when the doors were opened

to the New Kingstown Primary School, as it was first named.

The school was named the CW Prescod primary School in 1991, in homage of Christopher Wilberforce Prescod am educator whose impact was throughout the state.

Recounting that special day, thirty- four years ago, Hyacinth Lewis, who is still assigned to the school related: “The school ushered in its first Principal- Mr. Lennox Lewis. He, along with fifty- two teachers, welcomed one thousand and thirty excited students, who were eager to relish their new surroundings”.

The school was

initially built to accommodate students from the Kingstown Methodist School, which at the time was overcrowded and had fallen into disrepair.

However, a change in government’s policy resulted in all unsuccessful students who resided in Kingstown and its immediate surroundings, and who were unsuccessful at the Common Entrance Examinations, being accommodated at the ‘new’ school.

This meant a senior section, Grades 7 and 8, was added to the Junior section, Kindergarten to Grade 6. The senior section was discontinued in 2005.

The CW Prescod Primary School has a population of over 700 students, a complement of 51 teachers and 8 ancillary staff members.

Past student - Zyann Johnson on the violin, with another past student - Darron Andrews assisting her.

Students marching to the CW Prescod Primary School’s compound on the school’s 34th anniversary.

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Editorial

Crime!! A national emergency!!

IF ANYONE THOUGHT that after the unprecedented shooting deaths of five males in one swoop was going to bring a pause if not a halt in gun-related deaths in this country, they got a rude awakening.

Two murders within a span of forty-eight hours re-established the ‘status quo’, i.e. that we were not far off from being labelled a country of murder.

As it stands under the current Minister of National Security, who might be wanting to correct himself for having said that there were no gangs in SVG, and a Commissioner of Police who seems to be getting uncomfortable in his chair, the murder toll is on track to shatter last year’s record of 42. After all, we are not yet out of September and we have already counted 37 homicides, if you include three accounted for during police action.

No one in their senses would wish an increase in the murder count for our homeland, for that matter on any other nation. But given what we have experienced so far for the year, a betting person would put his wager on an increase for 2023.

This country was once a peaceful country — one of the most peaceful in the Caribbean. But whether because of mismanagement, disingenuous politics or the weight of corruption, we have allowed ourselves to be open to the vagaries of the drug trade that breeds gun crimes and violence.

One person, responding to the latest shooting death here, was moved to comment, . “I am in my forties and while growing up this level of wickedness was not around. It’s like somebody is getting a reward for all these killings and it feels demonic.”

Yes, when we open ourselves to the world in the name of advanving our development, but instead of attracting those who would clothe and comfort us, we give ourselves and what little we own in the hope of redemption in some distant future.

And in the process we invite and accommodate a drug trade — a trade in narcotics — that comes with the added ‘incentive’ of a criminal attachment which has now taken hold of our society.

It’s simple imply to say ‘I am not involved in that,” is to be naïve; to not accept the bigger picture that the society in which we work and play, in which we raise children, is driven as much by things legal as it is by things illegal.

Have we now become so vile and destructive that others frown on us, including the nationals who comprise our diaspora?

We are so open about it that photos of people lying in pools of blood, their brain matter splattered on the pavement, appear on social media regularly. Headlines of shootings and killings are the norm.

The thing is, we are not too far off of a situation in which crime will seep into every aspect of our lives like an epidemic, if it has not done so already.

Whatever the reality, there is enough happening that speaks to a need to reduce and prevent crime. Crime, simply put, has become a national emergency.

When we demand from our National Security Minister and his ‘uncertain’ Commissioner of Police an appropriate crime prevention/reduction plan, we do so in the hope that it will bear no likeness to biasness or curry favouring; that it will not shield anyone from the reach of the law. All of this because we want a future that is secured.

The crime crisis is out of hand and this year’s murder rate set to overtake last year’s, but it is useless to call on the National Security Minister to vacate that portfolio since even if he should vacate, he remains ultimately in charge… same difference!

Regardless of what or how you see it, crime will be a foremost issue in the lead-up to the nest general elections. It is important that no party escapes our demand for a proposal on how they would tackle the crime crisis in this country.

Of This and That

OVER THE LAST FEW WEEKS, so many not-so-small issues have been recurring that I cannot help but add my two cents. I refer to them as small and recurring because I have commented on them in previous articles. So please consider this week’s rant as an update or a restatement of my position.

1. Finally, we got a few words from the NDP on the NIS:

A few weeks ago, I looked at the NDP proposal for NIS, and the best I can say is: You have to be Kidding. Is this all you got?

After months of grandstanding, public display of self-righteousness, and warming about the pending demise of the NIS, the best I got from them was what we must do better at managing the public funds: too much local investment and government-directed investment.

Okay, Dr. Friday did say a few other things. Just in case you missed it, he asked for a stand-alone board to act in the best interest of the participants. So I ask myself, isn’t that what we have now? Then it dawned on me that he doesn’t like who is on the board today. You know, the “we can do it better syndromes”. Next was the diversity of the investment portfolio. I could not imagine a more generic statement. Please, Dr. Friday, tell me something new and different. How about discussing whether direct loans and investments in government and quasi-government meet the current statutory definition, and if not, what clarification would you like to propose? For instance, should the NIS invest in government-sponsored businesses like hotels, provide loans to the national lottery, or accept government properties in place of cash contributions to the fund? If you are wondering, my response to these questions is an unequivocal, no.

I totally agree with your other guiding reform principle: no one currently enrolled in the system should receive diminished benefits. Again, reducing benefits for anyone presently vested in the system is probably illegal.

In the interest of all the NIS participants, please get involved constructively.

2. Please let the man go, Mr. Prime Minister

Just when I thought I was finished talking about our CoP, our PM sounded like he was not accepting the resignation of CoP. Why?

My experience tells me whenever one of my employees no longer wants to work for or with me, it’s time for them

to go. The same is true when I lose confidence in them; they must go even if I had to work at finding a way to pay them to leave legally. Yes, call it early or forced retirement, but it was in the organization’s best interest for us to part ways. So, Mr. PM, let the man go; you both will be better off. I cannot imagine our life if you forced him to stay on the job or begged him to stay. In my humble opinion, the public you both profess to serve will suffer if you force him to stay.

So please let him go.

3. Citizen right to our beaches

Once again, we are having this discussion and all I can say is, why?

When are we going to clarify this simple question once and for all? When will we codify the people’s right to full and unrestricted access to our beaches? When are we going to say our beaches belong to all our people?

It is not that difficult. It is not that controversial. It is not an unreasonable expectation. Private developers and landowners can coexist with that right. Having lived, worked, and managed municipalities with private/gated communities or exclusive resorts, I have difficulty understanding this artificial problem. The longer we take to address this issue as a government, the more complex it will become. We will see people develop inflexible positions that result in winners and losers.

This problem/issue can only be resolved through government intervention, so let’s do it, Mr. PM. It’s time we clarify what full access to our beaches means and make the necessary amendments to those exclusive lease agreements made with wealthy local and foreign landowners.

4. Have we seen the end of free and fair elections?

Is it just me, or are we entering an era when it is no longer possible to have free and fair elections? I have not been keeping track, but every losing political group seems to refuse to accept the election results somewhere in the world every few months. This trend appears to have become a thing.

We have had at least twelve military coups within the last five years. The trend in the rest of the world is now for the losing political party to not concede an election loss in Trump style. I hope we in the Caribbean, and SVG do not have to live through this destructive phenomenon.

Horatio.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Proper planning prevents poverty

WE MAKEtoo many mistakes that result in the opposite effect of what we intend. We should make careful observation of what people are doing and are interested in and make available assistance that would help them to be better at what they do. Low interest and no interest loans are much better than grants because the money would be available on demand to those who need it. Having to repay makes the user a more responsible investor.

Coconut water is a product in demand.

Currently many small entrepreneurs bottle the water and keep it frozen until it is sold. In this way preservatives and their side effects are avoided. Others cut the coconuts and serve them directly from the shell. Coconuts have a shelf life of about one week. Attempts to set up a bottling plant failed because adequate preservative protocol could not be established. Perhaps if we had simply kept the water frozen, the plant could have been supplying the vendors of today.

Arrowroot production perhaps should be geared to producing starch cakes which are an excellent product for the cookies industry. In this way we can add value to the product and make the industry viable. Arrowroot could be utilized in the ice-cream industry also. Sea moss is another product suitable for ice cream making.

Marijuana was produced for decades by local people. When the medical marijuana industry came along, these farmers should have been allowed to freely produce the needed varieties and have a ready market for their product.

Assistance made available should be geared towards making people more independent and less dependent. A determination of needs should be ascertained and how best to make it available. Availability of a tractor to plow the land will make farming less tedious.

Locally produced animal manure should find a ready market among other farmers of crops. Extension Officers can help to develop appropriate information systems to put manure producers with crop producers.

Some have the notion that fishermen, construction, technical workers do not need any schooling. Teachers have vision and can see where many students are heading. They should be provided with adequate academic preparation suited for their future careers. With this kind of planning poverty will be prevented.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

That Food Insecurity Project of the OECS

WHENI heard advertised last week that the OECS officials who have responsibility for the management of agricultural activity in the sub-region, were to have a high-profile consultation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I was baffled by the title of the consultation – “Food Insecurity Project”.

At a time when many nations the world over, are actively engaged in enhancing their “Food Security”, it seemed to me strange that we here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, could be hosting a gathering of sub-regional heads of the agriculture sector under the umbrella of a project labelled “Food Insecurity”.

But then on reflection, maybe there is relevance enough! Was it not this same source of authority that through the ECCB came up with a plan to stimulate the economy of the sub-region in 2008/9, which they labelled the “Stimulation and Growth Plan”? That Plan, their response to the Global

Economic Down Turn, was expected to stimulate the economy of our sub-region. There was to be the injection of significant capital into the sectors of “Tourism”, “Manufacturing”, “Fishing” and “Construction”. I wondered then and still do today how could the ‘brains’ of this society not have included the ‘Agriculture Sector’ in the proposed ‘Stimulation Plan’!

And that was no oversight, for the then Governor the ECCB Sir Dwight Venner declared that we the communities of this sub-region could import food ‘cheaper’ if we imported ‘collectively from outside of the region’. We are now importing food from outside of our sub-region, but it is not cheaper. It is also less healthy than what we produced!

It has also been documented that those four sectors that had been targeted in that “Stimulation Plan”, they recorded “Negative Growth” for three

successive years after the ‘Plan’ had been implemented. I have for some time now been expressing my consternation that our regional organizations exhibited by their reticence such indifference on a matter where the well-being of the community was clearly threatened.

UWI, IICA, FAO, CARICOM should have been mature enough to give guidance. And what about the students of Economics who had interests here and The Chamber of Commerce?

As a result of this indifference to the wellbeing of our people, our economy has been badly crippled!

The farming community cannot be expected to gravitate to any new schemes promoted by our administrators today. We need to have serious discussions over the next few months, to determine why the plethora of plans proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture have

failed. What say you Saboto!

Every conscientious Vincentian should feel duty-bound to participate in those discussions, as the well-being of the younger generations and the future peace and harmony in our land are at stake. We cannot build strong and durable edifices if we use “Rusty Steel”!

LeRoy Providence

Questions Vincentians are asking

IWANT to ask some questions on behalf of the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) home and abroad.

Did the SVG National Properties Ltd. borrow millions of dollars from the National Insurance Service (NIS)? Did the National Properties transfer EC$8.4 million to the NIS to satisfy part of a debt to the NIS? Is there an outstanding sum that is owed to the NIS by the National Properties and that will be deducted from the proceeds of the EC$8.4 million? Is it true that the state National Properties Ltd has granted the Ju-C Building to the NIS to pay the existing loan? How much more is owed to the NIS by the National Properties? How many millions were borrowed from the NIS by the National Properties? Is it true that the Gonsalves government bought the Ju-c building for the sum

of EC$6.325 million? Did PM Gonsalves say that he wanted the property (Ju-C building) at the city entrance to be owned by Vincentian?

Then why was the former Marketing Corporation building leading to the city from the entrance of the Grenadines port sold/leased (?) first to a St. Lucian group and then to a Trinidad group (Massy)? What happened to the Veiras, Bonadies,

and CK Greaves?

Why did the government not use the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard to train workers? Why did the government fail to train and create tradesmen and women for the SVG workforce? Why are contractors failing to get skilled workers to finish school repair works in time for the reopening of schools?

By the way, did the National Properties

borrow money from the NIS to assist with building the airport? If so, why were we told that Vincentians won’t have to pay a cent to have the airport built? Why were begging bowls placed in England, Canada, USA, and also at Water Authority, VINLEC, etc.?

More questions than answers.

Christian Democratic.

SVG, where are we heading?

IAM NOTold enough to remember the days of the 1950s and 1960s in our once beloved St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but I am certain they were not as frightening as the days of the 21st century.

We need to pause and ask: Where are we heading?

I mean, two killings in two days? We can’t talk about Jamaica and Trinidad anymore. And with the number of killings now at 37 I don’t want to say it, but the way we are going, we look like we will break the 42 killings record of 2022.

Some time ago our Prime Minister

with all his intelligence, told us that there are no gangs in SVG. If what has taken place this year and with what the police had to say after those five killings at one time, I wonder what the PM would say now. We are in the middle of a gang war and have been a long time now and because we denied it, we paying for our ‘chupidness’.

So, my people, we have to pause, ask where we are heading, and say a prayer. As D Man Age said so long ago, “Is we have to care ‘bout we.” Williams, D.

Celebrating the relevance of the Education Revolution

Introduction

THE NEW SCHOOL TERM BEGANon

Monday September 4th, 2023, and with that came the mobilization of tens of thousands of students across the country. On that day, students either began their formal education, continued their education in a new class, or continued their education in a new school. For the early-childhood students, many began this part of their education in a governmentestablished centre, and for primary schoolaged children, the compulsory nature or primary education welcomed them. After a successful CPEA sitting, approximately 1700 students were provided spaces in our secondary school system, at schools across the country, thanks to universal access to secondary education. The CSEC O’levels and A’level results also created a batch of students who have transitioned to the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC), as well as universities across the region and internationally. With these and many other positive things happening in front our very eyes, as a result of the education revolution, it can only be described as backward and colonial-minded, the questioning of the relevance and benefits of the education revolution. A sensible approach would be to examine the state of our country’s education system before 2001 and the outcomes of that system and compare what exists now paying particular attention to the policy additions and the outcomes produced systemwide. But for all the big lies and misinformation from the opposition NDP on the matter of education, the reality is that across our nation, our children, youths and adults continue to reap tremendous benefits from the education revolution and resulting in improved living standards and quality of life for the working class of this country. Let’s examine just of few of the gains of this policy, and how it has transformed the lives of individuals and families across SVG.

Some of the Many Benefits of the Education Revolution

It will always be worth it reminding our citizens of some of the improvements that came about as a result of the implementation of the education revolution, even without mentioning what existed prior, as much can be inferred. Upon taking office, even before the official motion being moved in the House of Assembly, the new ULP administration’s first order of business was to undertake comprehensive renovation and repair work on every school in our country. The revolution began its transformative impact on our education system by the implementation of universal access to secondary education, where no primary school child was left behind, but was given the opportunity to have secondary level education regardless to their result at the CPEA, formerly the Common Entrance Exam. This meant that the number of students entering secondary school would more than double, since previously only 40% of the students at secondary school age was provided for. Over the years, our ULP government has introduced 6 new secondary schools: the Sandy Bay Secondary, the George Stephens Secondary, the West St. George Secondary, the Thomas Saunders Secondary, the Canouan Secondary School and the Buccament Bay Secondary, and has built 4 more to accommodate schools that needed relocating: The Central Leeward Secondary School, The JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School, Intermediate High School, Union Island Secondary, a total of 10 secondary schools in 18 years. Today, more

children enter and graduate secondary school than ever before, the vast majority of whom go on to the community college to continue their education.

The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, our premiere post-secondary training institution, that offers, locally developed associate degree, regional CAPE, and Bachelor programs trains our best and brightest minds in Nursing Education, Teacher Education, Technical and Vocational Education as well as Arts and General Studies. This government expanded what was previously an A’Level College, transforming it to a state-of-the-art educational institution that prepares our students for further training in their respective fields or to take on the job market. The SVGCC accepts more than 1200 students every academic year, bearing testament to the excellent results at CSEC on the one hand, and the relevance of the education received in preparing for post-secondary and eventually university training.

The government’s support to students to support higher education, from the awarding of $500 to every student who pass 5 O’Level subjects including English and Math, continues to be a huge hit among students and their parents. Beyond that however, the government awards hundreds of tuition assistance grants to students pursuing university studies, with the number surpassing 1200 in 2023, up from more than 900 in 2022 and over 700 in 2021. Those tuition grants complement the 73 national scholarships, exhibition and bursaries that were awarded in 2022 to the top performers at the SVGCC, a number that makes the 3-4 given out under the NDP look disgraceful. When all of these opportunities are considered together with the number of government-to-government scholarships in no less than 5 countries, it’s easy to realise that our government through the education revolution has made it possible for hundreds, possibly thousands of Vincentians to pursue higher level education and training.

Relevant, Beneficial and Revolutionary

Those who question the relevance and benefits of the education revolution are clearly blinded by partisan politics and refuse to see how the children of the working class are lifting themselves and their families out of poverty because of the benefits of education. From primary school through secondary school, onto the community college and university, the education revolution continues to produce remarkable benefits to the thousands of recipients who testify of these daily. Even the NDP’s MP for the Southern Grenadines, in an unusually clear-eyed moment had to sing the praises of the education revolution based on the CSEC results of the Canouan Secondary School, where the first batch of students to sit the external exams performed in a manner he referred to with the words “phenomenal, heartening, and remarkable”, noting that he is proud of the school. This must have rubbed his leader wrong, being shown up in public as out of touch with the reality of the students of this country. Our government will continue to expand the education revolution to ensure it stays relevant offering even more to our students, preparing them for a world that demands more from our citizens, professionals and leaders. Long live the education revolution!

Young people are leaving SVG

EVERY YEAR MORE AND MOREyoung people leave the shores of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They do so because the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has failed to provide the opportunities for them to work and fulfil their dreams. Research has shown that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has the highest migration rate of young people in the OECS. It is time for a national campaign to support young people to stay in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The ULP government has damaged the economic prospects of the country and has increased unemployment, hopelessness and poverty among our youth. The Poverty Report of 2018 which the government has never published, showed that poverty in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has worsened since the ULP gained power. The report showed that poverty in St. Vincent and the Grenadines moved from 30.2% of the population in 2008 to 36.1 % in 2018. And, the indigence level had moved from 2.9% to 11.3% in the country of 110,000 people.

There is no hope for young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. After twenty-two (22) years in power, the ULP government has failed to implement programmes and policies to develop a culture of youth entrepreneurship so that young people can establish businesses and employ other young people. Instead, these young people are forced to travel to countries in the OECS, United Kingdom, Canada and the United States of America to seek employment.

At the end of the academic year 2022-2023, hundreds of students graduated College and Secondary School. While some students will be pursuing studies at universities, most of them will be seeking employment. The sad news for these youngsters is that there will be no employment opportunities for them. They will be joining the thousands of Vincentians who are already on the unemployment list. Youth unemployment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains one of the highest in the region. Four out of 10 young people are unemployed. The ULP government has failed miserably to provide jobs and create the enabling environment to stimulate the private sector so that they can also create employment.

These young people have studied hard to achieve their qualifications. Their parents struggled and made sacrifices to send them to school and the ULP government has failed them. There are no meaningful careers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in which young people can flourish. The result is that some leave the country and unfortunately, some of those who remain them turn to crime.

Too many of our young people do not have work or the prospect of a well-paid or meaningful job. Instead, many of our young people are trapped in either makeweight work provided by the government or are unemployed. The government’s answer to unemployment is to ignore it until election time.

As stated in our 2020 election manifesto, “We will ensure that our young people have the opportunities to succeed in St. Vincent and the

Grenadines, without having to leave our shores. Our most valuable resource is our people and we need them to prosper as a country.”

There is a better way

There is a better way for young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NDP offers hope and has a number of policies and programmes that it will implement to benefit the youth, when it is elected to office. We will create a sustainable job market, which offers lifelong careers to keep young people working in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with salaries that allow them to provide for their families. We will tackle crime aimed at stopping it from becoming a viable alternative for young people who are struggling to find work. And, position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a leading nation in the Caribbean, giving our young persons a sense of national pride and growing their desire to remain in the country and become active in social affairs.

Further, we will encourage a culture of youth entrepreneurship and provide the environment for them to grow. Young people who are involved in the private sector will benefit tremendously. We will establish a National Development Bank to eliminate the credit problem and make financing more accessible and more affordable for local business people, especially small businesses. Our youth will benefit immensely from this bank. This bank will also provide training and technical assistance in agriculture, tourism, fisheries, small business development and human resource development.

The NDP understands and accepts that technology is not something in our future. It is here and it is now and we need to put it to work for our development. Therefore, we have identified Information Technology as an important area that will provide opportunities for our young people. We will place tremendous emphasis on Information Technology to tackle the unemployment situation which exists among our youths, in this country.

In our 2020 manifesto, we stated that we will reduce the student loan interest rate to 4.5 percent. Our interest rate for student loans of up to 9 percent is one of the highest in the region. We will enable the Development Bank to support students with cheaper loans, with an interest rate of 4.5 percent. This will be possible because of our plan to bring in new investment through our Citizen by Investment Programme.

We believe that the migration of several young people is because of the harsh economic conditions in the country. We deserve an economy that will thrive and create jobs and opportunities for the future, so our young people will not be forced to move abroad in search for work. Too many young people are leaving the country after completing their education. With a stronger and more diverse economy, we can create opportunities and provide the skills for long-term and well-paid jobs here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Warrior courage

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” - Nelson Mandela (19182013) – South African anti-apartheid activist and politician who served as South Africa’s president from 1994 to 1999.

SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL (1874-1965), Britain’s World War II Prime Minister, is known to have said that, “History is written by the victors.” This statement is quite similar to that of the German Hermann Göring, Churchill’s enemy in World War II. It is said that at the Nuremberg trials, Göring noted that, “Der Sieger wird immer der Richter und der Besiegte stets der Angeklagte sein.” In English this translates, “The victor will always be the judge, and the vanquished the accused.”

It is therefore not surprising that many of the European records of the vanquished Zulu population in South Africa omitted the bravery, the courage, of the indigenous people of South Africa as they resisted the conquest by the more heavily armed Europeans in the 19th Century. Many of the records of the Anglo-Zulu War, fought in 1879 between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom, tell tales of the bravery of many of the 60,000 British soldiers but omit the heroism and tremendous sacrifice of Zulus during the six months of bloodshed. And yet, the quotation that was used to introduce this essay reveals that the residue of courage lingered on beyond the bloody battlefields of Zululand … traveling beyond time and geographic distance to encourage and inspire.

The Caribs of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) fought valiantly to retain their territory as the French and British attempted to settle in the 1700s. There were two major Carib wars in the latter half of the 1700s. The wars of 1772-1773 and 1795-1796 revealed the cunning strategies and the outstanding bravery of the indigenous people. Each year the residents of SVG celebrate the courage of the then Carib chief, Joseph Chatoyer - the nation’s national hero. Like the Zulus of South Africa, they were outnumbered and their enemies possessed weapons that were far superior to theirs. However, in both instances, they possessed the warrior courage that earned them the respect of their foes.

Similar warrior courage was evident among the Buffalo Soldiers of the United States of America. The movie Glory, starring Denzil Washington, portrayed many of the feats of these ex-slaves who fought in the Union Army throughout the American Civil War (1861-1865). After the Civil War, they were enrolled in the 10th Cavalry Regiment at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. They fought against the Native Americans during the American Indian wars. It is said that the Native Americans revered and respected them for their bravery and gave them the name “Buffalo Soldiers” in admiration.

Many other examples of individuals and communities that portray warrior courage can be sited here. The courageous three hundred Spartans who fought against Xerxes’ mighty

Persian army at Thermopylae in 480 BC need honourable mention.

Individuals like William Wallace of Scotland (1270-1305), and Joan of Arc of France (1411-1431) are but a few additional examples of individuals and armies that cultivated the warrior courage that we admire.

Today, warrior courage is also evident among the soldiers in the Ukrainian army as they seek to repel the invading Russian military forces. Many global spectators admire the courage and tenacity of the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky as he, a non-military citizen, rallies his forces and his people to fight on.

Warrior courage is not limited to warfare. Sales persons, strategists, and tacticians in the workplace need to have that dogged determination if they are to survive and expand in the realm of business. Hoping and wishing for improved performance will not be sufficient to guarantee success. This is especially so in the fields of business where profit margins are small and the competition fierce. The faint-hearted are unlikely to survive in such a hostile business environment. Such situations require warrior courage at the directors’ level, at the managerial level, and down in the trenches. Even in situations where the enterprise or the industry may be under threat of survival, courageous leadership could significantly enhance the chances for survival and expansion as efforts are made to look beyond the crisis to unearth opportunities that are often lurking there.

We all possess warrior courage and have the potential to be heroes; displaying extraordinary bravery. It is not beyond us to be a hero. A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the courage to persevere and endure despite every obstacle. We can ignite the warrior courage within our homes, neighbourhoods, and nations — standing up and speaking out for justice and equity; standing up and speaking out for the oppressed and marginalized; dispelling the forces of darkness by portraying lives that reflect light and righteousness. We all have the capacity to display warrior courage. These thoughts and challenges are not new. Aristotle (384 BC - 322 BC), the famous Greek philosopher who was mentor to young Alexander the Great, was known to have said, “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.”

When embracing and cultivating warrior courage it should not be assumed that it discards fear. Fear may still be present but warrior courage enables the individual to plod on regardless of the perceived terror or threat. Mark Twain (1835-1910), the American writer and publisher whose real name was Samuel Longhorne Clemens, is known to have commented that, “Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear.” Warrior courage is proactive. It faces the fear with confidence and conquers it.

Our Police are Angels

DWAYNE MC KENZIE’S promotion to Inspector of Police is proof that PM Gonsalves lives by his word, ‘Our police officers are angels.’ If Dwayne Mc Kenzie is one of Gonsalves’ ‘angels’ camouflaged in police uniform, we should shake in our boots at the thought that one of his devils may confront us one day.

Dwayne Mc Kenzie is the police officer caught on video slapping, punching, assaulting and wounding 15-year-old Damali Phillips. Damali was one of over 300 members of the police youth club who journeyed to St Lucia on a retreat. Damili Phillips was in Mc Kensie’s care. Informed sources told us that the theme of the retreat was conflict resolution. Mc Kensie, through his assault and wounding of young Damali, showed himself as a witless, tactless brute.

The assault and wounding occurred on July 31. The parents went to the police headquarters in an attempt to see Commissioner John. To date, they have not seen him. The police issued a statement saying the institution had launched an investigation. On August 10, lawyers for the Phillips family wrote to Director of Public Prosecution Sejilla Mc Dowall to request that the rogue cop be brought to heel and made to face the full force of the law. On August 21, the DPP’s office wrote to say a response is pending further information from the Commissioner of Police. More than a month has gone by, and there’s no word from the DPP’s office. Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of National Security, was copied on the letter. He never bothered even to acknowledge the mail.

Then came the September 8 memo signed by Commissioner John. Dwayne Mc Kenzie’s name topped the list. John’s memo indicates he has neither authority, backbone or professional wherewithal to lead a modern police force. What selfrespecting leader will promote a subordinate recently berated by the public for his brutal assault on a 15year-old boy? Evidently, neither the police, Gonsalves, nor the DPP’s office bothered to investigate Mc Kenzie’s criminal conduct, which was captured on video.

The promotion of Dwayne Mc Kenzie is unjustified. Rather than promotion, Dwayne Mc Kenzie should be kicked out of the police force and made an example of. The promotion made a mockery of the government’s declared policy of being tough on crime and the causes of crime.

Mc Kenzie’s promotion offers further proof that this government holds in contempt notions of fair play, justice and the rule of law.

These actions by the police and government do not instill confidence. But we have repeatedly said this government is gangster! No other government demonstrate such wanton disrespect and disregard for the courts’ orders and declarations. Courts order damages and cost, and the government ‘thumbs its nose’ at the ruling. Police officers shoot and kill civilians, and the authorities hold coroners’ inquest at their leisure.

Police officers convicted for beating, stomping and kicking 15year-old Jemark Jackson into a coma in 2009 are rehired. A court found

the state liable for the savage assault on Jackson, but the state refused to settle. Jackson, killed in mysterious circumstances more than 12 years later, went to his grave without collecting a cent.

On March 3, 2019, police officer Mohammed Lavia, in an unprovoked attack, shot Okeno Fergus in his left leg, shattering the bone. Fergus told the court after he was shot, Lavia told him, ‘tek dat in yo stupid mother c#@t.’ The police went on to frame Fergus, who had to go all the way to the Appeal Court to clear his name.

Fergus sued Lavia and the state, seeking damages for his injuries, and won. In the decision, Justice Esco Henry said, ‘I cannot understand what would drive a police officer to treat a resident of any country in the way Cpl. Lavia behaved towards Mr. Fergus that morning. It was inhumane, merciless, aggressive, high-handed and totally undeserved. The court cannot countenance such conduct in a democratic society where the rule of law pervades the administration of justice and the society… If ever there was a case that attracted exemplary, aggravated and substantial general damages for loss, damage, physical, emotional and mental injury, this one certainly does.’

With such a decisive ruling from a highly respected judge, one would think the government would settle. The policy of the governing regime is akin to the German fascists during the closing days of World War 11. When Allied forces surrounded them and ordered that they surrender, they preferred death, shouted ‘Surrender hell’ and died in a hail of bullets. Gonsalves’ Attorney General has demanded that the doctors who tended to Fergus avail themselves for cross-examination.

When lawyers wanted to serve the officer who chased Cjay Weekes to his death at Twenty Hill, they had to get past a stonewalling police commissioner who asked that we cite legal authority to justify our request. A police officer shot and killed Bjay Llewellyn at Fairbairn Pature during the carnival season. The matter was dealt with in a most hush-hush manner. Within days, the officer left the apartment where she lived. Llewellyn’s parents have been desperately trying to get information about their loved one’s death, all to no avail. The investigating officer, Station Sargeant Bristol and her superiors have refused to speak to the family lawyer. They claim all requests must go to the commissioner’s office.

This sordid tale of police misconduct, governmental connivance and abuse of public trust amounts to solid proof that this government should not be taken seriously on matters of crime and punishment. Citizens must draw the proper lessons and withdraw their political support from this arrogant bunch of misrulers.

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

The price of being strong: Mental Health of Athletes

by SHIMANO BAILEY

IT IS EASYto recognize the many exceptional benefits of sports. But there is also a darker side that is often unnoticed. Athletic strain is well-documented and commonly discussed. But

what about athletes’ mental struggles, not just at professional levels but at all levels?

The topic of mental health among athletes has gained significant attention during the COVID-19 pandemic,

highlighting the challenges and pressures that come with being in the spotlight and pursuing excellence in sports. While athletes are often admired for their physical prowess and achievements, they

are not immune to mental health issues. The price of being strong and successful in sports can sometimes take a toll on their psychological well-being.

Nevertheless, mental health in sports has not

been discussed as openly as physical health and injury, but it is an important issue that needs to be addressed. The constant pressure and dedication needed in competitive sports can make athletes more prone to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As such, it is essential to provide athletes with the resources and support necessary to maintain healthy mental health habits and seek proper treatment when needed.

Notably, we saw in 2021 that mental health had become more of a focus for athletes. Naomi Osaka opted out of the French Open, Wimbledon and other tournaments to protect her mental health, and Simone Biles opted out of gymnastics at the Tokyo Olympics. This sparked a muchneeded conversation about the importance of mental health, inspiring athletes around the world to prioritize their own mental health. Additionally, athletes began to speak out more about the need for greater mental health support in the sports community.

Moreover, it is important to note that the American Psychiatric Association has pointed out the dangers of assuming athletes should be mentally healthy, or the false notion that “being strong” means being able to handle things on your own. This is because mental health issues can affect anyone regardless of physical strength or ability. Furthermore, focusing on physical health alone does not address the underlying mental health issues that athletes may

be facing. To ensure the well-being of athletes, it is important to recognize and address these mental health issues. In like manner, one of the most significant things we can do for athletes’ mental health is to remove the stigma associated with mental health. We can also enforce the message that help is available through private entities and the Ministry of Health; Mental Health and Psychosocial Services. It is everyone’s right to seek help and to find a treatment plan that suits them. We must also ensure that athletes have access to resources and support to help them manage their mental health. Coaches and team managers should be trained to recognize signs of mental distress and be prepared to direct players towards the appropriate help. Undoubtedly, mental health should be treated as any other health issue, with the same level of importance and attention. Seeking professional help should not be considered a sign of weakness, but rather a way to take proactive steps towards bettering one’s health. Mental health professionals can provide guidance, support, and resources for those who need it. It is essential to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health and should be taken seriously. Seeking help is a sign of strength and resilience. St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ goal as a sports tourism destination must include all aspects of the athlete’s well-being, including their physical and mental health.

Vaughan Toney succumbs to cancer

As a teenager, he migrated to New York in 1969 to join his mother Ela Toney, a professional nurse.

On completing his secondary education, he enrolled as a student at the State University of New York (Albany), where he served as an elected member of the student governing body while concurrently working as a student intern in the office of then-State Assemblyman Angelo del Toro.

On graduating from SUNY Albany in 1978 with a Bachelor’s degree in political science, Hamilton said Toney was recruited directly to the staff of the New York State Assembly Education Committee, “where he served with distinction” as legislative assistant to Chairman Leonard Stavisky, a former professor of history and government.

When Stavisky acceded to the New York State Senate six years later, Toney followed as senior staff analyst and special assistant to the senator.

“For the young Vaughan Toney, it was an assignment he would later describe as ‘the pivotal experience and opportunity of a lifetime,’” Hamilton said.

In 1992, following the adoption of a new City Charter and an expanded, more representative New York City Council, Toney left Albany to serve as chief-of-staff to Council Member Una Clarke, the Jamaican-born, first Caribbean-born woman elected to the New York City Legislature.

Four years later, he moved on to accept the position of chief-of-staff to Belizean the Rev. Dr. Lloyd Henry, representing the adjacent 45th Council District in Central Brooklyn.

extensive Family Child Care Network, serving hundreds of preschool children in dozens of affiliated provider homes in Brooklyn and Queens, Hamilton said.

Through separate contracts with the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), he said FOCH also administers multiple Elementary and Middle School Afterschool programs.

US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

THE BROOKLYN,New York-based Friends of Crown Heights Educational Centers, Inc. (FOCH) last week Monday announced the passing of its longtime president and chief executive officer, Vincentian-born, Vaughan Toney. He was 68.

Hugh Hamilton, the Guyanese-born director of communications & program development at FOCH, said Toney died earlier on Monday, Labor Day public holiday (Sept. 04) in the United States, following a battle against cancer.

In a career spanning more than four decades of exemplary public service and advocacy in the fields of child care and early childhood education, legislative reform, community empowerment and political activism, Toney was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations, “celebrating his lifelong commitment

and leadership in the service of others”, Hamilton said.

In September 2022, Toney was formally accredited by the Government of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves as an Ambassador-at-Large in recognition of his outstanding service to the Vincentian Diaspora.

Toney said, at the time, that the appointment was “by far, the crowning achievement of my public service in the Vincentian community at home and abroad over the past 40 years.

“For me, public service has been both a calling and the blessing of a lifetime,” he added. “It has been and will continue to be a labor of love, because there can be no greater good than the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”

An exemplary journey

Vaughan Peter Adrian Toney was born on Jun. 29,1955 in Calliaqua, a small town close to the southernmost point on mainland St. Vincent.

In both capacities, Hamilton said Toney crafted the legislative strategy that brought tens of millions of dollars in capital investment and economic stimulus to the Flatbush, East Flatbush and surrounding communities of Central Brooklyn.

Amid these political engagements, Hamilton said Toney also pursued studies toward a Master’s degree in public administration at New York University.

In 2001, he narrowly lost an historic election bid to represent the 45th District in the New York City Council.

For the past 22 years, Toney served as president and chief executive officer of FOCH, a New York State-registered 501(c)3 not-for-profit, communitybased organization in the City of New York.

With a current network of 21 fullservice Early Childhood Education Centers in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Staten Island, Hamilton said FOCH has evolved under Toney’s leadership to become “the largest City-contracted, not-for-profit provider of subsidized child care and early education in the City of New York.”

In addition to its signature, centerbased Infant/Toddler, 3K and Pre-K programs, the agency also operates an

Additionally, FOCH is a New York State-contracted sponsoring agency of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) — a nutrition education and meal reimbursement program enabling providers to serve nutritious and safely prepared meals and snacks to children in licensed child-care settings.

In recognition of his lifelong leadership and advocacy in the field of Early Childhood Care and Education, Hamilton said Toney was invited to serve as a Board Member of the Day Care Council of New York — a membership organization of over 100 agencies that together operate more than 250 publicly and privately-funded child-care centers and family childcare programs in New York City.

As a community leader and activist, Hamilton said Toney served as a member of the Kings County Hospital Advisory Board; was a founding member of the Caribbean American Political Organization; past president of the 42nd Assembly District Democratic Club; and a former member of the Carlos Lezama Archives and Caribbean Cultural Center — all in Brooklyn.

Toney was also an active member of numerous humanitarian and philanthropic organizations, such as the Brooklyn-based SVG Relief USA, Inc., “working to support the wellbeing and aspirations of his fellow Vincentian nationals both at home and throughout the Diaspora,” Hamilton said.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING

Vaughan Toney received a plaque after SVG PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, right, announced Toney’s appointment as Ambassador-at-Large in September 2022. Consul General Rondy “Luta” McIntosh is also in photo.

Vaughan Toney gives acceptance speech upon his announcement as Ambassador-at-Large.

Trinity School of Medicine: September 2023 White Coat Ceremony Highlights

Trinity School of Medicine recently held its White Coat Ceremony for the Septem-

their acceptance to Trinity and stated

has not been easy and I hate to be the

“The days are long, but the years are short. It’s been ten short years since and honestly it feels like just yesterday

then go make it happen. Create that life every single day. Truly live your lives

look out from your path, it may very

important it is to train compassionate

“Being a doctor of medicine is not just a career, it’s a calling, a calling for your life to love and help people in need.”

comes, and denies us the present by promising us the future. The greatest future lies in uncertainty: live immediately.”

ÂSosoÊ, Touch inducted into Vincy Hall of Fame

byNELSON A. KING US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

THE BAND TOUCHand the late Trevor Lockhart, known in the entertainment world as ‘Winston Soso’, the ‘Rolls Royce of Calypso’, were inducted into the first ever Vincy Hall of Fame at a gala ceremony over the Labor Day weekend at the K&L Manor on Glenwood Road in Brooklyn, New York Elmo ‘Magic’

Christian — considered one of New York’s leading promoters during the early 1970s, the 1980s and beyond — and founder and president of the Vincy Hall of Fame — told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday that ‘Soso’ and Touch were honored during the sell-out event.

“As another major contributor to the Vincentian music industry, the late Winston Soso was inducted,” said Christian, who, in association with businessman Gideon Yorke continued the tradition of bringing the finest in entertainment to New York audiences, with this year’s Vincy Night Extravaganza.

Vincy Night 2023 featured performances by Touch, Skinny Fabulous, Elroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper and Kemmy Christopher.

Christian said the night of festive dancing and enjoyment was highlighted by the Vincy Music Hall of Fame induction of Touch, winners of multiple road marches, and who was part of the initial Vincy Night event 35 years ago, and the late, legendary Winston Soso, “the man who gave us ‘I Doh Mind’, ‘Pan Yard’, and other memorable

Soca hits.”

Consul General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Rondy ‘Luta’ McIntosh, a soca artiste himself, conducted the induction ceremony.”

Christian said he was “excited” to add the Vincy Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony to the Vincy Night Extravaganza. He said artistes become eligible for induction 25 years after the release of their first recording and the criteria in which inductees were judged included their influence, significance, and contribution in the music industry.

The ‘ABC of Calypso’, Dr. Alston BECKET Cyrus, in a previous interview with THE VINCENTIAN, said Soso, “one of the top soca artists in the world,” was the composer and performer of his signature “I Doh Mind”, “one of the greatest soca hits of all time.”

Before he broke off, Christian said, “We take this time to say thank you to our many fans, well-wishers, past members, present members, and all those who played a part in our present and future successes, as we are not done yet.”

Below: Trevor Lockhart, know to his fans as Winston Soso, the ‘Rolls Royce of Calypso’, was appointed a Cultural Ambassador of SVG in 2014.

Members of the band Touch which won seven road marches in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, five being consecutive wins. (Photo courtesy: Touch)

Honorary degree for ÂKing Short ShirtÊ

degree from the University of the West Indies (The UWI) Five Islands campus, as part of the wider UWI’s upcoming Class of 2023 graduation ceremonies, starting next month.

An announcement on Saturday from The UWI said that ‘Short Shirt’ was part of a notable list of recipients from the entertainment sector across the four landed campuses, who are set to be honoured.

ANTIGUAN CALYPSO ICON SIR MCCLEAN‘King Short Shirt’

Emanuel will be the country’s lone recipient of an honorary

The others were: Barbados Soca star Alison Hinds - to be honoured by the Cave Hill campus; Trinidad & Tobagoborn R&B singer/actress

Heather Headley by the St Augustine campus; Jamaican reggae legend Beres

Hammond by the Mona campus.

The annual tradition of conferring honorary degrees, the statement said, will “commemorate the outstanding contributions made by these individuals to their communities and the wider society”. It also coincides this year with the UWI’s 75th jubilee celebrations.

King Short Shirt

King Short Shirt - who has amassed more than two dozen titles as a fierce competitor - is described as a colossus of calypso, having won the competition 15 times in Antigua and Barbuda, becoming the first to win three successive competitions and also the only to boast three separate Calypso ‘hat tricks’.

Since entering the calypso arena in 1962, the 81-year-old has copped the Caribbean Calypso competition seven times, as well as winning seven Road March crowns.

For several

decades, King Short Shirt has thrilled audiences in Antigua and Barbuda and across the region with hits such as ‘Lamentation’, ‘Tourist Leggo’, ‘Power and Authority’, ‘Nobody Go Run Me’ and the personal favourite of many Antiguans, ‘Vivian Richards’.

Born and raised in Antigua’s Point community, King Short Shirt was a champion for social justice, with many of his songs hitting out at oppression, poverty, and politics.

He is held in high regard by a wide cross-section of Antiguan and Barbudan society, and can count figures including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards among his fans.

The veteran retired from the competitive Calypso scene in 1994 after a more than 30-

year career but continues to write and sing, acknowledging the difficulty in leaving the art form altogether.

He received a knighthood from his government in 2014 for his contributions to the promotion of Calypso, and calls have repeatedly been made - including from the aforementioned PM Brownefor that status to be elevated to National Hero.

If those desires are to be fulfilled in his lifetime, King Short Shirt would join Sir Viv as Antigua and Barbuda’s only living national heroes, while he would become the first entertainer to receive the country’s highest honour.

King Short Shirt is set to have his honorary degree conferred on him during the Five Islands Campus graduation ceremony on October 7.

King Short Shirt joins a distinguished group of calypsonians who have been conferred with honorary doctorates by The UWI. The list includes SVG’s own Alston BECKET Cyrus.

BidenÊs son charged

US PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN’S SON HUNTERhas

been charged with three criminal counts related to firearms possession, a United States court document showed.

In Thursday’s indictment, prosecutors accused Hunter of making false statements related to drug use in order to acquire a firearm in 2018.

The indictment, which was brought by US Special Counsel David Weiss in federal court in Delaware, comes after a deal for Hunter to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges and enroll in a programme to avoid prosecution on a gunrelated charge collapsed in July.

A White House

spokesman referred questions on Thursday to the US Department of Justice and Hunter’s legal team, saying the charges stem from an independent investigation.

The case will no doubt play an outsized role in the 2024 US presidential campaign as Biden seeks re-election in a likely rematch with his

Republican predecessor, Donald Trump, who leads the GOP’s nomination race.

It also comes just days after Republicans announced they would open an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president — in large part over his son’s business dealings.

Hunter Biden’s transgressions will not do his father any good in his father’s quest to retain the White House.

For years, Hunter has been the focus of attacks by Trump and his Republican allies, who have accused him of wrongdoing relating to Ukraine and China, among other issues.

Biden’s critics also have seized on Hunter’s personal troubles, including a long struggle with drug addiction, to hit out at the US president.

Prosecutors said in Thursday’s indictment that in an effort to procure a firearm, Hunter made a statement “certifying he was not an unlawful user of, an addicted to, any stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance”.

They said, however, that he knew the “statement was false and fictitious”.

All of this comes just days after Republicans announced they would open an impeachment inquiry into the Democratic president — in large part over his son’s business dealings.

US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has announced he is

launching an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden, yielding to mounting pressure from former President Donald Trump and his allies.

McCarthy said on Tuesday that the House investigations into the Biden family’s business dealings this year have uncovered a “culture of corruption” that warrants deeper review.

“These are allegations of abuse of power, obstruction and corruption,” McCarthy told reporters outside his office at the United States Capitol. “That’s why today I am directing our House committee to open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden.”

McCarthy said he will direct the chairmen of the House Judiciary, Oversight and Ways and Means committees — which have been working together for months on various probes related to the Biden family — to lead the impeachment inquiry. (SOURCE: Al Jazeera and news agencies)

Get Safe Online launches in SVG

GET SAFE ONLINE, one of the leading online safety resources in the world, is excited to announce the launch and introduction of its innovative “Check a Website” service in Caribbean countries including St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This new service, available at www.getsafeonline.vc/checkawebsite/ , empowers individuals and businesses to navigate the online world securely by verifying the legitimacy and safety of websites before engaging with them.

The “Check a Website” tool offered by Get Safe Online provides users with an easy to use platform to assess the credibility of websites they intend to visit. By simply entering the website’s URL, users can receive instant information about its safety status, potential risks, in seconds. It cleverly uses an algorithm to provide a trust score based on more than 40 data sources as well as thousands of reports of malicious websites from law enforcement agencies, regulators and consumer brands.

Tony Neate, CEO of Get Safe Online, comments: “We are thrilled to introduce the ‘Check a Website’ service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As more individuals and businesses in the Caribbean region embrace the digital landscape, it’s crucial that they have the necessary tools to protect themselves from online threats.”

National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ms. Rhea Lewis, Consumer and Public Relations Manager comments: “The NTRC is delighted to once again be a partner of Get Safe

Online in this initiative as internet security is of the utmost importance when utilizing the internet” Get Safe Online is resuming campaign work in the Caribbean, thanks to funding from the UK’s International Development Programme, provided by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

To access the “Check a Website” service in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and start making more informed online decisions, www.getsafeonline.vc/checkawebsite/

Toastmaster Stapleton distinguishes himself

MR. ST CLAIR STAPLETON, of New Montrose, Kingstown, has been awarded the title of Distinguished Toastmaster, the pinnacle title of Toastmasters International, a worldwide educational organization which has about 280,000 members in 144 countries.

The award was conferred on Mr. Stapleton in July by way of letter, the contents of which cited him, inter alia, as having demonstrated “outstanding service and accomplishment in leadership and

Continued on Page 27.

St Clair Stapleton, of New Montrose, Kingstown, is now a Distinguished Toastmaster.

An interfering sister

Dear George,

MY SISTERis jealous of me getting married before her.  She is older than I am and has had about 6 serious relationships that almost led to marriage.

Due to her nagging ways and her negative outlook on life, the men in her life just don’t stick around. I know this because some of them have confided in me. I talked to her about it but she only ended up accusing me of interfering in her business.

She in determined to ruin my chances of getting married. I am tired of her bad-talking me with the men I’ve dated. They come to me for explanations to the stories they heard from her about me.

She is doing this to delay me getting married before her. I am tired of it and I need to know how to stop

her. Disgusted.

Dear Disgusted,

You cannot control the behavior and actions of your sister but you certainly can control your responses to whatever she is doing. You cannot let her control your decisions which is why it is important for you to let her know that what she is doing is unacceptable and you can certainly do without her intrusion.

If and when you marry before your sister, she would just have to deal with it.

George.

Admit responsibility

Dear George,

IHAVE always been a happily married man but something has surfaced in my neighborhood that is threatening to destroy my marriage.

Three women in my village have reached out to me for financial assistance. Two of them are married but their husbands are out of the country looking for work.

George, things got away somewhat and I ended up sleeping with all three women. It gets worse: all three of them are pregnant and they are saying I am

responsible. I tried to deny it but they are now threatening to come to my house together to talk to my wife. I do not know how they found out about each other.

George, I love my wife and care about my marriage. Don’t you think these women are going too far? I am so stressed right now! What should I do?

Headache and More Headache

Dear Headache and More Headache,

You claim to have so much love for your wife and care for your

marriage but yet you had no issue sleeping with these vulnerable women, without bothering to protect yourself.

You should at least own up to these women, take responsibility until it is proven otherwise. They would be correct in including your wife in the conversation seeing that you should not be doing anything outside of her knowledge.

My advice: Clear the air and let the chips fall where they may. There are always consequences for every action and your actions are not excluded.

George.

Come clean with him

Dear George,

AFTERa year of marriage, the truth is, I am no longer happy with my husband.

When he asked me to marry him, I cautioned him that I was at a place in my life where I am leaning toward being intimate with members of my own sex. He told me to marry him and that feeling would disappear. I believed him and that was my mistake.

He does not know that I am now finding sexual satisfaction with another female, and does not know I am just forcing myself to sleep with him.

The truth is, I no longer want to be married to him or any other man. Should I tell him or is it better to just settle to live a double life? Over to

you.

Undecided.

Dear Undecided,

It is clear that you no longer enjoy your marriage and being with a man (your husband).

Your husband deserves to know the truth. The best thing to do is to level with him. It is not like it is going to come as a shock to him because he knew from the onset that you were struggling with your sexual orientation.

Staying in a marriage with such clouds of doubt floating around is not healthy for either party. Have that conversation and move on.

George.

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

If you take on too much of a financial burden you may make yourself ill. Secret enemies will be eager to spread rumors about you. Chances are they are jealous. Situations in your personal life are moving a little fast lately.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Move into a leadership position if you are determined to do so. You need to look into new philosophies. If you can, make phone calls instead of going out. Good day for romance.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Try to iron out any friction over money with your mate or conflicts could prevail. Changes in your domestic situation will prove to be favorable in the long run. Things are looking good for you, so open your eyes and get to it. Business and emotional partnerships will run smoothly.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Daydreaming will be your downfall. Don't avoid situations that may deteriorate; try to mend them. This is not the best day to visit relatives who get on your nerves. You may have more to do with children this week; keep an open mind.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Let them know what your intentions are. Spend some time on yourself. Arguments with relatives may lead to a split in the family. Your personal life will be disrupted if you have been too busy with business.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

You mustn't take on other people's responsibilities or you may find yourself irritable and exhausted. Advancement can be yours if you put your efforts into work related matters. Don't hesitate to go ahead with any plans for entertainment.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

You can make life easier for an older member of your family. You can bet that someone in a higher position is watching to see how busy you are. Don't jump into investments too quickly. Visitors may drop by unexpectedly, resulting in tension with your lover.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Risks will not be profitable. Changes in your home may be alarming at first. Don't try to hide your true feelings from your mate. Red tape could be impossible to clear up this week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

You will learn valuable skills if you sign up for seminars this week. Don't bang your head against a wall. Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions. Avoid getting involved with married individuals.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Your partner will blow situations out of proportion. Extravagance and overindulgence are not a cure if you're feeling sorry for yourself. Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that will change the conditions you've been living under.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Travel will entice you; however, a tendency to overspend is quite possible. Property investments, insurance, taxes, or inheritance should bring you financial gains. An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

New relationships will surface through work relate events. Don't overspend on items for your home. Plans to make physical improvements may lead to psychological changes, too. Partners may try to argue with you; however, you must stand your ground.

1. Blabbers

1.

2.

3.

The Soccer season and more

SOCCER season usually kicks off in August, but team SVG is scheduled to play their first CONCACAF Nation League game on the September 08, so we can expect an excuse if the season kicks off later.

Soccer competitions are now played throughout the year in various communities during different months, when fields become

available, and organizers can have ‘certain players’ to promote their competitions. The truth is that the competitions are played on differently sized fields, some not rectangular as required by FIFA.

The situation is that players find themselves complying with different coaches and having to be playing in various

positions, just to maintain their fitness levels in readiness for the SVGFF championship in August.

The funny thing is, while there is a marked increase in the number of competitions/leagues, our performances and results are poor. The current soccer standard has not reached that of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and

90s.

The Gold Cup

The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) countries that participated in the Gold Cup were Jamaica, Haiti, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Trinidad, Cuba, and St. Kitts. Noticeably no Windward Island was able to qualify after

three decades of receiving financial, technical, and other assistance for FIFA.

Team SVG’s first and last appearance was in 1995. We have had all the financial support we need from FIFA so what is the reason?

Jamaica was the best of the CFU teams. They reached the semi-finals. Next in line were Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique and Trinidad and Tobago. Losing all their games were Cuba and St. Kitts. All the CFU countries should be looking back at the performances to correct, adapt, and perfect what was done best so as to improve.

Mexico beat Panama 1- 0 to win their ninth Gold Cup.

A bit of ‘technical’ advice

The Gold Cup was very competitive physically and was also exciting as teams scored in the dying minutes to play extra time and kick penalties.

Caribbean coaches have to learn to ‘recognize’ the reason for their losses and how to address and correct these.

‘Precision’ when passing is a major problem throughout the Caribbean.

The plan or strategy to get players into position moves too slowly. Moreover, players’ shooting techniques are poor. In training, they need to attempt to score 80-85 goals from one hundred shots so they can develop the feeling required during a game.

Coaches need to get to know the players’ ability, especially in and around the 18-yard box as it

relates to placing the ball from a first touch. Field organization is also a problem. Players run, some hop back to defend, unorganized, blocking their keeper’s vision. They mark no opponent nor cover, and whoever picks up the tackle does not shepherd or force the player with the ball into their defensive trap, if they have any.

Caribbean players have to become ‘stronger’ and fitter physically and mentally to concentrate for the duration of the game. The work must start at the club level.

Where we’re heading CONCACAF Nation League kicks off on September 09. Team SVG begins against Belize. This will determine if we have what it takes to move on.

The female World Cup kicked off on July 20. This world event should be of interest to our females, as there are two CFU countries (Jamaica and Haiti) and four CONCACAF countries (Costa Rica, Panama, Canada and USA). Our executive needs to focus on introducing a programme that would develop all our females since the aim should be the FIFA World Cup. Instead, they select some females and have them ‘prepare’ for three months then embarrass the country. It’s time we get serious. Affiliates, you are also responsible. Do we feel bad when we lose by ten goals?

Let’s all help soccer. Spectators are tired ‘sucking their teeth’ after watching games. Rollit.

Vincy Heat on fire in CNL

2023, then a 4-3 triumph over Bermuda, here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, on Tuesday September 12, put the Vincentians on a maximum six points.

In their first outing against the Belizeans, Vincy Heat’s two goals were accounted for by a Marlon Simmons header in the 51st minute and an own goal by the Belizeans in minute 79.

Nana Mensah had put Belize ahead as early as the 15th minute.

TWO

League B, in the Concacaf Nations League(CNL).

A 2-1 win over Belize in Martinique last Friday, September 8,

De Roche, Cumberbatch lead TT performers

The programme will be conducted at two venues: The St. Vincent Grammar School and the West St. George Secondary School.

It was a similar situation against Bermuda. Vincy Heat trailed after Jai Bean hit one past Garwin Davis in the 21st minute.

However, a late surge by the home team saw Oalex Anderson netting three goals in seven minutes, as he scored in the 40th, 42nd and the second minute of first half injury time.

More joy came for the host, as Jahvin Sutherland sneaked a goal in the 63rd minute, to give a three-goal cushion to the Vincentians.

But the Bermudans regrouped and made a fight of the match, with Remy Coddington scoring in the 69th minute and Lejaun Simmons, five

minutes later.

The Vincentians weathered the onslaught to keep their unbeaten record intact.

Interim Coach of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines team- Theon Gordon, welcomed the results but was quietly cautious, noting that there was still a lot of work to be done.

“……….the group is quite humble, and they recognize we have work to do and they trust the process and I felt they trust what I am trying to do”, Gordon said at a post-match interview, last Tuesday.

Gordon further acknowledged that it takes the “Football fraternity”, to keep the team grounded, as they await the next FIFA window in October.

“There is a lot of things that are happening that could cost us from not continuing this way, it is for us to learn, build and grow together,” Gordon emphasised.

When the October window opens, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is set to host French Guiana at the Arnos Vale venue on October 13, before facing the same opponents in

Theon Gordon, Interim Coach of Vincy Heat, even with two wins on the trot, recognizes that there is much work still to be done if his team is to maintain its recent showing.

their home turf on October 17.

The final round of matches for the Vincentians takes place in November when they go into return fixtures, first against Bermuda in Bermuda on November 17 and host Belize on November 21.

The winner of the group advances to League A, while the team placing last will be demoted to League C of the next CNL.

League B contains three other groups- A, B and D.

Female volleyballers set for ECVA Tournament

along with Shanecia Delpesche and Unica Velox, dominated the Senior female’s category.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will send an eleven-member team to the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under- 23 Tournament, set for Dominica, September 20 to 23, 2023.

AKEIL DE ROCHE AND LEAH CUMBERBATCH were among the leading performers when the SVG Table Tennis Association held another of its trial matches last Saturday, at the West St. George Secondary Auditorium.

De Roche led in a field that included Damion Dublin, Romano Spencer, and Sean Stanley, which represented the elite group/category one of senior male players.

Cumberbatch, one of this country’s top players

In category two for the males, good performances came from Lamont Gregg, Tykel Pierre and Zayden Cyrus.

In related news, the SVG Table Tennis Association will host an ITTF level 1-PTT Course/DMA programme from the 12th September to 21st September, 2023.

The Course has two parts; one to teach regular persons to be coaches and the other to have individuals learning how to teach persons in wheelchairs, on crutches, or any with a physical disability.

The team is led by Shanadia Sylvester, with Jannique De Bique, the ViceCaptain.

Also making the final cut are Ziel Cain, Cammara Edwards, Veronique Matthews, Saquanna Duncan, Ariella Browne, Keyara Gaymes, Zemolicia Grant, Nathalia Matthews and Gabriella Awad.

President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Volleyball AssociationEardley Martin, is the team’s coach.

Assessing the team’s preparations going into the tournament, a pleased Martin assessed: “The team has been training for just over three months and is looking very good”.

The ECVA Under-23 Tournament will be played at the Massacre Indoor Facility and will also involve Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Grenada, Saba, St. Lucia, St. Maarten and host Dominica.

The teams are expected to be placed in two

From left standing: Eardley Martin (Coach), Zemolicia Grant, Veronique Matthews, Cammara Edwards, Nathalia Matthews, Jannique De Bique, Keyara Gaymes, Gabriella Awad, Shanadia Sylvester (cap’t), Ariella Browne. Stooping from left: Saquanna Duncan, Ziel Cain.

groups, with the two top teams in each group advancing to the semi-finals. Apart from the team prizes, at stake are individual awards for the various positions.

WINS IN TWO MATCHEShave sent St, Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football team- Vincy Heat, to the top of Group C of

I.B.A. ALLEN

Leah Cumberbatch staying among the best.

Akeil De Roche continues to impress.

Oalex Anderson, a professional footballer who plays for North Carolina FC in USL League, showed his class with a hat trick against a spirited Bermuda team.

Marlon Simmons scored the equalizer against Belize.

Jahvin Sutherland put the icing on the cake against Bermuda by converting a fourth goal.

Je Belle and Avenues win Football titles

JE BELLE SECUREDthe St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation Under-15 Male Football title, when they beat Bequia United, 4-2, in the final played last Saturday, September 9, 2023 at the Campden Park Playing Field.

A brace from Leonardo Hooper and a goal each

SVG

from Jaron Bowens and Ozaid Edwards accounted for Je Belle’s four goals, while Bequia United’s two goals were netted by Alexis Malcolm.

Largo Height edged past Hope International 4-3, to take the third position.

Two goals from Jovan Jack and one each from Ozari Doyle and Khalil Lavia accounted for Largo Height’s goals. Junior Horne hit two and Jayden Horne one for Hope International.

Joining Je Belle in winner’s row was Avenues, who champed the Women’s First Division.

Facing Layou in the final, Avenues came away winners 4-2.

hosts Women in Sports Workshop

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINESwas host of a regional two-day Women Leadership Through Sport for All Workshop.

Staged by Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committee (CANOC) in conjunction with The Association For International Sport for All (TAFISA) and the United Nations Educational,

Youthful Gabriel wins 60-mile Cycling race

SIXTEEN-YEAR-

OLD Gabriel Doyle, aka Gabriel Culzac, outlasted a field of five cyclists last Sunday, September 10, 2023, to take the 60-mile road race organised by the SVG Cycling Union (SVGCU).

Gabriel, the youngest among the quintet, clocked 3:11,19 in crossing the finishing line first in a race that began at Langley Park, Georgetown, on to Orange Hill, then to Mount Young, doing so ten times with a finish back at the starting point.

Second to the

Gabriel was Sherwin James in 3:11.26, with Gabriel’s elder - Deptor Culzac, 3:11.32, completing the podium, in third place.

Two other cyclists- Steve Ollivierre and Martin Bollers, failed to endure to the end.

Meanwhile, the SVGCU has announced that Gabriel will represent this country in the Juvenile/Junior Caribbean Championship scheduled for the 15-17 of September in the Dominican Republic. He will participate in the Juvenile Category over 50 miles. Rivas Young will accompany Gabriel as his Manager. They will depart on Thursday 14th September, 2023.

Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the workshop took place on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th September, 2023 at Hotel Alexandrina.

The sessions ran from 8 am to 4 pm, on both days.

Among the topics dealt with were the state of Sport for all in the Caribbean, Communication, Marketing and Public Relations in the Sport for All Physical Activity (SAPA) Movement, as well as Mentoring and role modelling

Kristiana Christopher hit a hattrick and Savannah Primus scored the other. Zanique Vincent scored both goals for Layou.

Richland Park Pride and Pride and Joy docked in third with a 4-2 win over SV United.

The Women’s First Division was played 7 vs 7, as was seen as a developmental competition.

with the SAPA sector.

All sessions included a component of leadership, gender equality, social inclusion, and empowerment of women in Sport for all sector.

Participants were required to develop and present a SAPA project that must be implemented within 12 months of their return to their respective countries and communities.

The National Olympic Committees or Commonwealth Games Associations are required to submit quarterly reports to CANOC’s Secretariat, on the progress and implementation of the projects.

Vincentian Keith Joseph is the President of CANOC.

Hawks take Mustique cricket title

SA-LANGA Tama Hawks are the 2023 Champions of the Mustique Twenty/20 Cricket Championship.

In the Final at the Mustique Playing Field on the weekend, they beat Fire Storm by 6 wickets

with more than 6-overs remaining.

In front a large, vibrant and colorful crowd, Fire Storm, who batted first after winning the toss, score 89 for 9 off their 20-overs.

Nelson Williams was the leading Hawks bowler with took 3 for 18 and Ronique La Borde had 2 for 8.

It took SALANGA Tama Hawks 13.2-overs and the loss of 4 wickets to score 91 in overhauling Fire Storm’s

SA-LANGA Tama Hawks2023 Champions of cricket in Mustique.

score. Shem Browne topscored with 27 and Jomo Toney made 21.

Shem Browne of SALANGA Tama Hawks took the award for the Most Runs in the Championship. He totaled 158. Browne’s teammate, fast bowler, Caswell Dorsette, had 8 wickets the most in the Championship. Five teams began the Championship. One was suspended during the Tournament.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Gabriel Doyle/Culzac, once again, outperformed the seniors.

Je Belle – Under-15 Male Football Champions.

Avenues winners of the 7 vs 7 Women’s First Division.

Participants in the Women’s Sports Leadership Workshop.

Shem Browne scored the most runs 158.

FacilitatorsCatherine Forde (left) and Game Mothibi (centre) with President of CANOC - Keith Joseph.

Thrills and more

COACH THEON GORDONshowed his gratitude in open fashion, racing onto the field at Arnos Vale last Tuesday and hugging his goalkeeper Garwin Davis, after the final whistle in a nerve-tingling encounter. Vincy Heat, the name given to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines senior men’s squad, came away with a 4-3 win over Bermuda in the Concacaf Nations League.

It was a thriller in many aspects.

The game assumed one of four phases. Bermuda took the lead in the 21 minute after establishinhg early dominance. The Vincentians appeared somewhat timid. A rhythm section tuned into action after the Bermuda goal and that might just have inspired the players.

One player in particular found his range, and the game will be remembered for the Oalex Anderson blitz. He rescued the Vincentians with goals of different caliber but of equally high value in the 40th, 42nd, and before the end of the two minutes added before the break.

The Vincentians went into the dugout with a lead. Javin Sutherland added to the margin in the 63rd minute to give the home team an apparent sound foundation.

That forced the Bermudians into action and they mustered all their energy in trying to salvage something from the game. They came close enough, at least in the eyes of many spectators who watched nervously as the finals minutes wore on.

By the time the 74th minute came around, Bermuda had whittled the lead to one. The Vincentians held firm nevertheless and breathed a sigh of relief at the end.

The win by the Vincentians placed them top of Group C in their League B showdown.

It took some time to find their straps. When they did it came with Andersons goals akin to a pre-packaged video. Anderson showed balance and awareness to score a header from about the penalty spot following a well-time pass.

The others were the results of good team work to find him. But it took skills, awareness, finesse and precision to be finalised. And they sent the Arnos Vale crowd into a frenzy.

Those feelings dangled as the match closed. The Vincentian started with Garwin Davis in goal. Nigell Charles, Gavin Browne, Joel Jack, Jahvin Sutherland, Gidson Francis, Marlon Simmons, Kenijah Joseph, Sherwyn Alexander, Oalex Anderson and Cornelius Stewart.

Coach Theon Gordon made five changes with Brad Richards replacing Gavin Browne, Garret Leigertwood in for Gidson Francis, Jahva Audain on for Marlon Simmons, Najima Burgin replacing Sherwyn Alexander, and Rodell Thomas replacing Anderson.

The Vincentians play French Guiana at home and away October 13 and 17. French Guiana is ranked 15th among Concacaf nations.

Vincy Heat secured a 2: 1 win over Belize days in Martinique the previous week. With Bermuda ranked 27th, five spots above the Vincentians, that victory will enhance their rankings.

Ambris leads Windwards

WEST INDIESbatsman Sunil Ambris will lead St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Windward Islands Men’ Senior Cricket Championship, to be bowled off here on September 26th and run until October 1st.

The full Vincentian squad reads: Sunil Ambris (Captain), Desron Maloney (Vice captain), Romano Pierre, Gidron Pope, Keron Cottoy, Dillon Douglas, Kenneth Dember, Dean Browne,

Sunil Ambris would hope to lead both as captain and as a primary run-getter for the Windwards.

Darius Martin, Tilron Harry, Othneil Lewis, Ray Jordan, Derron Greaves, Rasheed Frederick.

Shaman Hooper, Solomon Bascombe, Watson Seaton and Richie Richards have been named as reserves.

The top performers in the Championship as well as the contracted Windward Volcanoes players will be involved in a three-match Best vs Best series, with a view to select a team to represent the Volcanoes in the CWI Super50 tournament slated for October.

These matches are expected to be played at Sion Hill, Park Hill and Cumberland.

National Masters Bowls Off

THE 2023 SVG Masters 20/20 Cricket Competition bowls off this weekend.

Eleven (11) teams will participate in this year’s competition. They are: RSVG Police Masters, North East Masters, Budgmart

Pastures Masters, Davis Construction Bequia Masters, VeeJays North Windward Masters, Civil and Architectural Solutions Park Hill Masters, Stanley Browne Stubbs Masters, Cato’s Heavy Equipment Glamorgan Masters, Sion Hill Masters, P’tani Masters and Strokes Masters.

The fixtures this weekend show VeeJays North Windward facing Stanley Browne Stubbs Masters at Park Hill from 2 p.m, and Cato‘s Heavy Equipment Glamorgan opposing Strokes at Buccament at 2 p.m.

On Sunday, P’tani oppose Davis Construction Bequia at Park Hill at 10.00 a.m, Civil and Architectural Park Hill face North East at Park Hill from 2 p.m, and Budgmart Pastures take on RSVG Police at Buccament from 2 p.m.

Greaves returned as Umpires’ President

GOLAND GREAVES, retired West Indies cricket umpire, was re-elected President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Umpires Association. He will serve for another two-year term.

Greaves was re-elected when the Association held its AGM last Saturday at the Bishops College Kingstown.

Greaves is joined on the Executive by: Andy BaptisteVice President; Kaman GreeneSecretary; Annesha

The recently elected executive of the SVG Umpires Association (from left) Selwyn Allen, Afron Byam, Kaman Greene, Andy Baptiste, Goland Greaves, Annesha Richards and Elron Lewis.

Richards - Assistant Secretary; Afron Byam — Treasurer; Selwyn Allen —PRO; Elron LewisCommittee Member.

During the meeting, one of the country’s more experienced and long-serving umpires - Eddie Williams, announced his retirement from active duty. He now becomes a life member of the association.

Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN

RSVG Police Masters will be looking to retain their title.

Eddie Williams retired from active duty as an umpire.

Toastmaster Stapleton distinguishes himself

From Page 19.

skills and has used these skills to help others in their self-development efforts.

The award comes after some eight years of unwavering dedication, during which Mr. Stapleton: delivered numerous speeches on varying topics; competed in speech contests; served as club president; initiated public-speaking contests; and mentored and coached other Toastmasters and clubs.

He also served, from 2021 to 2022, as Area Director (Grenada) with the mission to help clubs grow.

Distinguished Toastmaster Stapleton is a member of seven Toastmaster clubs in the region and has successfully applied the skills he developed as a Toastmaster to his career as a sales executive.

“Don’t listen to the naysayers,” he often says.

“Believe in yourself.”

Distinguished Toastmaster Stapleton is

Black Sand Developers get extension

From Backpage.

completion of the first phase of the project.

He said that consideration to grant the extension was as a result of the work already done and because the developers had already invested millions into the project while utilizing local labour and purchasing material from local suppliers.

The tourism minister said that he had been informed and based on his observation from a recent visit to the construction site, work was currently ongoing with work being done on the infrastructure surrounding the villas and the installation of windows and doors.

known for his sense of humour, determination and passion for personal and professional growth. He commented, “When I joined Toastmasters, I was at the lowest point in my life. Toastmasters has given me the tools to succeed at life. Now, I mentor others for success.” (Source: SVG Toastmasters)

BLACK SANDS DEVELOPERS GET EXTENSION

Stories by DAYLE DASILVA

THE DEVELOPERSof the Black Sands Resort, presently under construction at Peter’s Hope, have been granted a threeyear extension on their alien land-holding license.

Carlos James, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture made the disclosure in Parliament on September 7, saying that the decision was made to allow for the completion of the first phase of the project.

James disclosure came in response

to a question posed by Dr Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition and Parliamentary Representative for the Northern Grenadines, who asked about the completion date of the project.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held back in February 2017 with the expectation that the first phase —i.e. the construction of an initial ten of 40 luxury villas, 12 of which while started are still some way from completion - would be completed within two to three years.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves had announced that

the government had received an application from PACE Development, the developers, for an extension of the timelines in which to complete the project.

According to James, the delay in the construction of the project was of concern to the government however, the challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the RussiaUkraine conflict along with other issues including supply chain issues, shipping and the rising cost of material, any construction that got

CITIZENSHIP ACT AMENDED

THIS COUNTRY’S CITIZENSHIP

BILLwas amended in Parliament on September 7, allowing individuals born overseas to Vincentian grandparents to become eligible for citizenship.

According to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who moved the motion, Clause 2 of the Bill amends Section 9 of the Citizenship Act which according to him deals with the registration of persons who would otherwise qualify for citizenship.

“It is not an entitlement to be

registered, but an opportunity to be registered without the usual time for naturalization,” Dr. Gonsalves said and added that he had received several telephone calls and letters about the process for the registration of second-generation Vincentians born abroad.

Among those correspondences, Dr. Gonsalves said that he received several letters regarding sport.

“Persons who wish to represent St Vincent and the Grenadines at regional and international sporting

gatherings so there are all these various categories of persons,” he said.

So too, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday said that it was an issue that he got from clients, as a legal practitioner in the country.

“I think for those persons who have that interest and who have raised it with me…I am much happier for them to have heard from me that those persons are no longer excluded from applying, they still have to apply but they would not have to go through the lengthy process,” Dr. Friday said.

started pre-pandemic would have been affected.

“And I think this is one of the challenges that has affected most of the tourism construction that started pre-pandemic and are incomplete and this is no exception to the project at Peter’s Hope for PACE Development,” James said.

This, according to James, prompted the government to grant the threeyear extension to facilitate the

Continued on Page 27.

He said that the Bill made way for those individuals born of Vincentian lineage to be able to use the skills and trainings they acquired in their country of birth, to apply them here to the benefit of the country.

“We do need that injection of skill, talent, training, capital, money [and] resources to help our country to continue to develop in a way that we would like to see it move forward, so that it enhances opportunity for all of us and encourages growth,” the opposition leader said.

Signs of recommencement of work on the infrastructure roads that will serve the Resort.

The current phase (first phase) has been reduced from 12 to 10 villas, work on which, Minister James said, is ongoing.