THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 18-08-23

by HAYDN HUGGINS

ALMOST THREE YEARS after Cuban national Arianna Taylor-Israel was gunned down on the compound of the St. Martin’s Secondary School in broad daylight, her husband Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel is awaiting sentencing for the murder.

A 12-member jury, six men and six women, on Wednesday, found Israel, a former civil servant, guilty of murdering Taylor-Israel, who was employed here as a nurse and was Israel’s wife for 20 years.

Upon conviction, Justice Rickie Burnett ordered that a Social Inquiry report on Israel be submitted by September 18 and that sentencing submissions be filed by October 2.

Israel is expected to be sentenced on October 13.

Surgical Pathologist, Dr. Ronald Child concluded that Taylor-Israel died from multiple gunshot wounds, including one to her neck, one to her chest, and one to her shoulder.

The Crown’s case was that Israel deliberately and intentionally shot and killed his wife shortly after 3 p.m. on the date in question, but the defense sought to establish a case of an accident, arguing that Taylor-Israel was shot accidentally during a struggle with her husband.

Attorney Dr. Linton

Lewis represented the accused while Richie Maitland, an attorney attached to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), led the case for the Crown.

Witnesses for the crown

The Crown called 27 witnesses but relied heavily on the evidence of two eyewitnesses — Fidel Akers, at the time a student of the St. Vincent Grammar School, and Mohammed Dowers, then a student of the St. Martin’s Secondary School.

Akers told the Court that he was sitting on a rail when he saw a vehicle pulling into the yard of the St. Martin’s Secondary School around 3:30 p.m. When a man alighted from the vehicle, he said the man had something in his hand which he (Akers) later recognized to be a gun. He said there was a struggle between the lady and the man.

According to Akers, “They were tugging and pulling for the gun, and the gun went off. The struggle continued, and three more shots went off, and the lady fell to the ground. The man went back into the vehicle and left.”

Under cross-examination by Lewis, Akers said, “She grabbed the gun, it was pointed towards the abdomen, and I heard three more shots.” He admitted to hearing four shots in all.

Dowers said he saw the woman “fighting up” with Israel and that she slipped and fell, and Israel shot her several times.

But under cross-examination, Dowers said he could not recall whether the woman was shot while standing or lying on the ground. He was also unable to recall if there was a struggle, how close the man and the woman were to each other, or if he had given a statement to the police.

Mitch guilty: Lawyer upset

on D’ Street’

Murder victim Arianna Taylor-Israel and Mitchel Israel were married for twenty years and had two sons.

Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel now await sentencing having been found guilty of murdering his wife.

Shackelle Bobb takes her Oaths

by GLORIAH...

LAST TUESDAY,16th

August, Shackelle Bobb swore the Oath of Allegiance, Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy at a ceremony held at Government House, to formalize her appointment as Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister. This was further formalized by the signing of documents by Senator Bobb and HE Dame Susan Dougan, Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In her remarks, Dame Susan Dougan welcomed the Senator with, “I wish to congratulate you on your appointment as Senator and Parliamentary Secretary. This is a proud moment for you and your family and indeed your friends and other Vincentians.” She endorsed her confidence in the role the Senator will play, stating that her academic and professional achievements are easily recognized as her years of hard work, effort, discipline and sacrifices.

She advised that thinking ahead, preparation and application become serious practices; she should put God first; accept praise gracefully and continue to be humble; be strong when others are uncertain;

recognise issues women face and endeavour to bring about meaningful change; encourage a culture of support, understanding and respect; and engage young people.

Prime Minister, Hon. Ralph Gonsalves took those present along a

journey in which he outlined some distinguishing features of the Senator from her secondary school days to current time; her journey through and successes in law school; internship experience; and emphases in relation to the work she would

undertake.

He expressed his pride when he remarked, “We are having the energy and knowledge and perspective of young people. (Shackell Bobb) was about seven years old ... when I became Prime Minister. She is now going to sit at the table of governance to make decisions with that same Prime Minister ......it’s amazing and

historic!”

In her response, Senator Bobb thanked all for their confidence in her, stating, “I know for a fact that there’s a lot of work to be done and I assure you that I am ready to accept the challenge.”

She called it a great feat to be the youngest member who will be sitting in Cabinet, affirming that, “... indeed

Husband guilty of wife’s murder

Continued from Frontpage.

There was evidence from a friend and former co-worker of Israel, that after the shooting Israel told him that he had shot his wife six times. He said Israel told him that he was ‘fed up’. The witness added that Israel complained of not feeling well that day, and asked that he drive him home.

There was also evidence from a police officer that Taylor-Israel had made a report to the police that her husband had threatened to kill her. But Justice Rickie Burnett, in his summation on Wednesday, told the Jury they would have to determine what weight, if any, they should give to his evidence, as Taylor-Israel was deceased, and therefore could not be there to testify, and be cross-examined.

The case for the defence

Israel, in his defense to the Court, said that when he went to the school’s car park that afternoon to pick up his sons from school, he saw his wife on the compound making a phone call, and he touched her to get her attention. He said she struck him with the phone, and he held onto her hand. A struggle ensued, and he could feel his licensed firearm’s holster, which was under his shirt, moving from side to side.

He was trying to pull it back, and she grabbed onto it, as to pull it from him, and a shot went off.

He said there was struggle and tugging during which more bullets went off and she knocked him back, and they fell. She came close to him and when he looked over to her he saw the gun between them. He took it up and went back into his vehicle not knowing that she was shot, until the police at Questelles told him that she was killed.

Forensic pathologist, Professor Hubert Daisley of Trinidad and Tobago, who was called by the defense, said the victim could not have sustained those injuries if she was lying on the ground on her back, with the shooter standing over her. The Professor said he detected gunshot residue which means that Taylor-Israel had to be shot at close range, say about 18 inches.

Closing arguments

In his closing arguments, Maitland referenced evidence in which Israel told the Investigator Sergeant Biorn Duncan that he was in an uncomfortable position with his wife. He quoted Israel as saying, “We have been arguing for about three weeks now.”

Maitland also referenced the evidence of Israel’s son Mathew, who said there was

the youths are the future. Inclusive political participation is crucial to building stable societies and developing policies that respond to the specific needs of our younger generation.”

Shackelle Bobb, 30, the youngest appointed Senator in SVG, joined the ranks of government Senators Benarva Browne, Keisal Peters, and Ms. Ashelle Morgan.

an argument between his mother and father on the morning she was shot. He also told the Court that on that morning there was a marital exchange between them, with the senior Israel saying he would bring women into the house to have sex with them.

“Mr. Israel would have had a motive for the killing of his wife. He had a .32 revolver which he inherited from his father”, Maitland said, adding, “He (Israel) had numerous opportunities to indicate that she held onto the gun, but he did not do that”.

But defence attorney Dr. Lewis argued that Israel’s son Mitchel Israel Jr. said in his testimony, that his mother was always the one to start the arguments. “He (son) could not think of any incident of his father hitting his mother or threatening her with a gun.”

Dr. Lewis pointed out that, based on the boy’s evidence his mother always had the propensity to be aggressive and erratic, and that their father always had to come to their defense when she was beating them.

He stressed that Akers admitted there was a struggle between Israel and his wife, and while Akers’ evidence supported that of his client, it vastly contradicted the evidence of the other eyewitness, Mohammed Dowers, and both Akers and Dowers were prosecution witnesses. The Jury rejected the defense’s version of the events.

Senator Shackelle Bobb, on a day she will remember forever, flanked by Governor General Dame Susan Dougan and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonslaves. (Photo Credit: API SVG)

Senator Shackelle Bobb taking one of the Oaths that formalised her appointment as a member of Cabinet. (Photo Credit: API SVG)

POLICE ROUND-UP

Bequia resident jailed

ON 8TH AUGUST, 2023, Police arrested and charged Tiquiado Williams, 26 years unemployed of Bequia with (1) theft of a firearm (2) possession of an illegal firearm without a license issued under the Firearms Act, and (3) possession of fifteen (15) rounds of .9mm ammunition without a license issued under the Firearms Act. The offences occurred at Arnos Vale between 2:00 am on 21.07.23 and 7:30 am on 29.07.23.

Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS

ATTORNEYDR. LINTON LEWIS says he was extremely shocked by the verdict delivered on Wednesday in the murder trial of his client Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel, a former civil servant.

A 12-member Jury found Israel guilty of murdering his wife Arianna Taylor-Israel, a Cuban national who was employed here as a nurse.

“The evidence was clear that ‘Mitch’ should have been acquitted. The two eyewitnesses brought by the Crown gave vastly conflicting evidence while the evidence of Fidel Akers Taylor, (one of the eyewitnesses) supported the evidence of ‘Mitch’. He, Akers, clearly said the lady grabbed the gun. There was pulling and tugging, and it (gun) went off three times,” Dr. Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN on Thursday.

“People are going on rumours that ‘Mitch’ went on the compound, pulled out his gun, and

shot his wife. That never happened. The only person who said that was Mohammed Dowers, and he told the Court he was groomed,” Dr. Lewis continued.

“The crown’s evidence in this case was contradictory and supported Mitchel Israel’s evidence. The gun in this case was missing for two years. Nobody gave evidence as to where it was. I hope that he (Israel) would eventually be acquitted, on appeal,” the attorney said.

However, Dr. Lewis did not say whether Israel would be appealing, but he feels that “Most likely he would.”

At the trial, Dr. Lewis sought to establish a case of accident, but the Jury rejected that version.

‘Mitch’s’ lawyer surprised by the verdict Bird gun just as bad

IT’S ANYBODY’S GUESSas to what Ethan Duncan of New Montrose was going to do with an imitation firearm and a ‘hoodie’ while he was ‘liming’ on a block at Paul’s Avenue last week.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, though, was moved to comment, “Anyone seeing you (defendant) with that firearm would ask no question.”

The Magistrate made the comment, just before sentencing the 19-year-old to 9 months in prison, but suspended that sentence for 9 months, for possession of an offensive weapon to wit, an imitation firearm/a pellet gun.

The Magistrate seemed amazed, as she scrutinized the firearm which resembled a real gun.

Duncan, on August 10, had pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon (the imitation firearm), but was remanded until Monday, August 14 for sentencing.

On his return to the Serious Offences Court on Monday, the Magistrate asked him, “Did you enjoy your accommodation?” To which Duncan replied “No.”

But when the Magistrate added, “I thought you did,” Duncan did not answer.

“I hope that his time spent on remand was a learning experience for him,” Prosecutor Renrick Cato said and recommended a suspended sentence even as he noted the offense carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison.

The facts showed that Duncan was arrested around 8 p.m. on August 9 during a joint mobile patrol by members of the Narcotics Unit, and the Special Services Unit (SSU) at Paul’s Avenue.

Duncan was sitting on a wooden bench among a group of people who all consented to a search requested by the officers. A search of a book bag Duncan had on his lap revealed what appeared to be a black pistol and a ‘hoodie’. When cautioned, he told Constable 258 Denvern DaSouza, “Officer that is just a bird gun me does go hunt with.”

When DaSouza asked him whether it was hunting season and what was the purpose of having the gun and ‘hoodie’ in a bag while sitting on a block at Paul’s Avenue, Duncan made no reply.

Investigations revealed that the firearm was in fact a pellet gun used for hunting.

In highlighting the aggravating factors of the offense, the Chief Magistrate said the defendant was met with the firearm in the ‘dead of night’. She also stressed the prevalence of firearm-related offenses in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, including Paul’s Avenue, where Duncan was found in possession of the weapon.

As mitigating factors she contended that an offensive weapon was off the streets. She found no aggravating factors for the offender, but as mitigating, she noted Duncan’s age, that he had no previous criminal record, and that he pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity.

Williams appeared before the Serious Offences Court on 08.08.23 and pleaded guilty to the offences. He was sentenced to twelve (12) months imprisonment for the theft of the firearm, two (2) years and three (3) months for the possession of the said firearm, and thirteen (13) months for possession of the ammunition.

The sentences will run concurrently.

Bus Conductor charged with theft

On 04.08.23, Marlon Garraway, a 34-year-old Eveham Bus Conductor, was arrested and charged with theft. Garraway is accused of stealing several items valued at $1,535.00ECC from a 26-year-old domestic of Eveham at Evesham around 10:00 a.m. on May 26th, 2023.

Garraway will appear in Mesopotamia Magistrate Court to answer the charge.

Labourer charged with wounding

Mark Shallow, a 51-year-old labourer from Kingstown, was arrested and charged with two charges of wounding on August 5.

Shallow is accused of unlawfully and maliciously wounding a 41-year-old vendor of Campden Park with a knife over her right eye and on her forehead on 04.08.23 between 9:30 and 10:55 p.m. on White Chapel Road, Kingstown.

Shallow appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on 07.08.23 and pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail in the sum of $2,500.00ECC with one surety.

The matter was adjourned to Tuesday, October 10th, 2023.

Mayreau man charged with burglary

Matthias Grant, a 40-year-old labourer from Mayreau, was arrested and charged with burglary on August 5, 2023. Grant is accused of stealing one (1) black and red Gucci purse valued at $50.00ECC, one (1) GECCU ATM Card valued at $10.00ECC, three (3) GECCU Passbooks valued at $15,00ECC, one (1) SVG National Identification Card valued at $125.00ECC, and $1,380.00ECC in cash on 03.08.23 between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Grant appeared before the Union Island Magistrate Court on 07.08.23 and pleaded not guilty. He was granted bail in the sum of $2,500.00ECC with one surety.

The matter was adjourned to Monday, August 28th, 2023.

Woman charged with theft

On August 5, 2023, Shekelia Gibson, a 27-year-old unemployed of Redemption Sharpes, was arrested and charged with theft.

Gibson is accused of stealing $3,150.00ECC in cash from a 33-year-old labourer of Redemption Sharpes in Kingstown between 4:00 a.m. on 8.1.2023 and 11:25 a.m. on 9.1.2023.

Gibson appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on 07.08.23 and pleaded not guilty. He was given Station bail.

The matter was adjourned to Tuesday, October 10th, 2023.

(Source: RSVG Police Force)

Dr. Linton Lewis, attorney for murder convict Mitchel Israel, was adamant that his client ‘did not get a fair deal’.

Ethan Duncan could count himself as having received the ‘mercy’ of the court.

by GLORIAH...

“THE MANAGEMENT OF THIS FACILITY would have submitted to Cabinet last week, rates for approval in terms of the public wanting to have the use of the facility. By and large, it is the first [that] we’re having such a facility here in St. Vincent and the management and staff would have accumulated figures from across the region where such facility is being operational.”

This was a statement made by the Hon. Montgomery Daniel, Acting Prime Minister, as he addressed the listening public on NBC’s Face to Face programme aired last Wednesday, 9th August.

The Minister was referring to user fees for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

which was recently installed at the Modern Medical and Diagnostic Complex in Georgetown. He went on to explain that management had done its work of researching and coming up with a cost for the use of the facility by individuals here.

He intimated that with the facility being the very first of its kind here, relevant and accurate research was required to come up with figures, and therefore, “….the submission was made to Cabinet, with their own tweeking on the numbers, and Cabinet has approved basically the numbers that were submitted with: 30 percent less to nationals for the use of the facility and 20 percent less for non-nationals.”

In giving the reason for the discounted fees Daniel said that cabinet had taken into consideration that the initial cost of the equipment was not burdened by government. “We got the facility as a grant and though in the overall cost submitted to Cabinet, where there is an in-built cost, for the use over time, all of that was taken into consideration to give you the final numbers to which was submitted to Cabinet by the management of the Modern Medical facility.” No exact user fees were available up to the time of preparation of this article.

MRI user fees discounted ERAO to host trauma-related session

THE EQUAL RIGHTS, ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITIES SVG INC.(ERAO SVG) continues to ensure that the vulnerable in this country are getting attention.

The organization will be hosting a “Posttraumatic Recovery and Growth - Healing from Trauma” session on Saturday 19th of August 2023, at the Blue Lagoon Hotel and Marina Conference Room located in Ratho Mill.

The free-in-person

sitting will be facilitated by Health Psychologist and Post Trauma Recovery and Growth Coach Dr. Jozelle Miller, from 1pm — 3pm.

President of ERAO SVG, Jeshua Bardoo, said the event promises to be very informative and interactive, with free delicious refreshments served after.

The session is expected to give persons who go through various traumatic experiences the opportunity to identify trauma, how do

to deal with it and help others who may have experienced trauma it, Bardoo said.

In other news, ERAO SVG will partner with RedRoot SVG Inc. in launching a FREE Legal Advice Clinic on Monday 4th September 2023, to support victims/survivors of domestic violence (physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, etc.

The legal clinic will be held at RedRoot SVG’s Office in Paul’s Avenue. Phone/WhatsApp: +1784491-7668,

Email: redrootsvg@outloo k.com / eraosvg@gmail.com

ERAO SVG has held numerous events dedicated to promoting equality and nondiscrimination in SVG.

Recent events included a Zoom Webinar on the topic “Is the death penalty the solution to crime? The death penalty and human rights”; a session on “Understanding the Constitution and your rights in SVG”; a panel discussion on “Violence

and Discrimination Affecting the LGBTQIA+ Community in SVG”; and a workshop on “Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Sex, Sexuality and Gender in the Context of Vincentian Society”. (SG)

The Prime Minister and the Minister of Health at the ‘commissioning’ of the MRI machine.

Jeshua Bardoo, President of ERAO SVG, expects the session to help those who attend to identify and deal with whatever traumatic experiences they may be having.

Politicians scapegoating of NPRBA

Editor’s Note: The following is a Press release from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Public Service Union. It is carried verbatim.

THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES PUBLIC SERVICE

UNIONstrongly condemns the recent actions of the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Tourism and the Hon Prime Minister for excoriating the workers of National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) for political reasons. Such is tantamount to bullying and intimidation.

It is unacceptable for any politician to use his or her power to intimidate and bully public servants who are doing their jobs. The workers who were involved in removing structures at the Brighton Salt Pond were simply performing their duties. These workers have shown commitment and dedication to their work, hence they should be respected and

appreciated. It is not appropriate for any politician to interfere with the work of public servants, for their own political gain.

The ministers - the Hon Camillo Gonsalves, the Hon Carlos James and the Hon Prime Minister - sought to inform the public that the workers were not authorized to act in the manner that they did. They further sought to establish that they were unaware of any decision to remove the structures. The Prime Minister further stated that “unauthorized behavior has consequences”. This, according to the Searchlight Newspaper dated 25th July 2023, hinted at action being taken against the person who gave the directive for the demolition.

According to an investigative report by Kenton Chance of iWitness News (IWN), dated 2nd August 2023, the government was

aware of plans to remove items that Elroy ‘Huffle’ Arthur erected at the Brighton Salt Pond. The report also stated that the issue was raised at Cabinet since 2022 and was the subject of multiple National Parks board meetings. These findings are in clear contradiction of the Ministers’ statements that there was no prior knowledge of the decision to remove some of the structures from the recreation site at Brighton Beach.

We call on the named Ministers to desist from scapegoating and (to) apologize to the workers at NPRBA for the unwarranted attack. We also urge all politicians to respect the work of public servants /workers and to refrain from using them as political pawns. We also wish to remind the Permanent Secretary that she is a public servant and as such should fiercely guard her integrity.

The Public Service Union

stands with the acting director, the workers of the NPRBA and all public servants who work tirelessly to serve our country. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and take all necessary steps to ensure that public servants are able to do their jobs without fear of political interference.

Sincerely

Lanique Findlay-Providence 2nd Vice President/PRO

Brighton Salt Pond once boasted facilities for relaxation and fun. They were demolished.

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

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

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd.,

Grenadines.

Judges, Sentencing, Mental Illness Say what, Mr. P.M?

IT MUST BE ONE HELL OF A THINGfor a judge, knowing that he has before him for sentencing a certified mentally ill man or woman. That judge must feel himself/herself definitely caught between the devil and the deep blue see. Darm if I do, dram if I don’t.

There is no easy way around the issues of incarceration (sentencing) and mental illness. And the situation is made worse when, as our learned justices stated categorically, that unlike the many other circumstances that might present themselves and for which there are guidelines for sentencing, there is naught to guide the judge, a human being of flesh, blood and feelings like any other, when a mentally ill person stands awaiting sentence.

The questions we need to be asking ourselves are: Where do we send the criminals? Where do we send the mentally ill?

While we are to assume, though the Superintendent of Prisons would want us to believe otherwise, that the correctional institutions are equipped to handle society’s overflow of miscreants, can we say the same of our Mental Health Centre (MHC)?

Is our MHC physically conducive, equipped and adequately staffed to deal with the various forms and manifestations of mental illness that a court of law might see fit to send its way?

It would appear that the answer to the last question would be a frightening no, since there has been little if anything serious that has gone the ways of addressing the mental health of this country.

Is it a fact that governments have failed to put money into programmes like crisis response teams or treatment options? Is it a fact that instead, funds have flowed into jail and prison systems which with no guidelines to sentencing the mentally ill, might just be the largest provider of mental health care in the country?

If it was any different, why, for example, do we still have one MHC that that houses and treats an unimaginable number of different expressions of mental illness? Pity the overworked professionals who are prepared to avail their expertise to the patients at the MHC.

And so it is that one has also to pty

judges who would want (guidelines or not) to send a mentally ill prisoner, even before he is convicted or even after, to an institution that will best serve his rehabilitation.

Consider the case of a 25-year-old certified mental patient who has been found guilty and giving the dearth of options, is sent to the general populations of a penal institution to serve his time; on condition that he is visited routinely by a professional trained to treat his illness, and accorded prescribed visits to the health clinic. Those visits might never be enforced; he fails to get his medication regularly; he becomes depressed; for that matter he can also become aggressive. What are his chances of a fair chance at that penal institution? Pity the judges!!!

This kind of negligence is all too common and is a direct consequence of the criminal legal system often having to act as the principal intervention point for people with mental health needs.

Is it far-fetched to say that people with serious mental health conditions are more likely to have contact with law enforcement than receive any form of treatment? Look around. See who responds first to the often unpredictable behaviour of mentally ill people who roam our streets.

We need to be cognizant of the fact that jails and prisons are fundamentally not therapeutic environments, and they are woefully ill-equipped to provide these services.

The absence of guidelines for sentencing and worse, with no genuine, alternate options, i.e. support systems for treating the mentally ill, regardless of the extent of this illness, put the judges in an untenable situation. We are in fact asking them to pass judgement on cases that just might have flown the coop of the judicial system.

Time that government here, for that matter governments across the 50-year-old CARICOM region, put some dollars into providing modern systems of support and treatment aimed at providing meaningful mental health care for the people of this region.

Some have slipped through the system. This is something we can avoid.

AS A PERSON OF MIXED HERITAGE, I find it hard to understand the Prime Minister’s comment that we must work with our European sisters and brothers to achieve reparation and justice for the genocide of indigenous people and the enslavement of Africans.

My mother was of Irish and Scottish heritage, and her patients arrived on the island in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in “indentured servitude”. Like most white people from that era, my family did not discuss the circumstances that brought them to the Caribbean islands. But history tells us that most of them were sent to the islands as either prisoners (punishment for petty crimes) or as a result of the Irish potato famine. So, for the PM to say on Emancipation Day that we need to work with our European brothers and sisters to right this wrong is somewhat disingenuous. My history tells me that neither my white family, my African and indigenous mixed family think of the people in Great Britain as brothers and sisters. Once again, let’s be clear they are not my brothers or sisters.

They were, and to some extent, still are our oppressors. How, some may ask? Well, let me count the ways, and I hope I do not have to go back to before Independence. Most of us understand how slavery and the years leading up to our freedom (Independence) were for most Vincentians, in a word, subjugation.

The Comrade’s original position on the issue of repatriation was on point; his new “kinder, gentler” rhetoric leaves some of us confused. Some may say it’s a more mature attitude.

We did not come this far only to get this far; now is not the time to ease up. So, to call for “mature conversations with our European brothers and sisters who were responsible for the native’s genocide and enslavement of African bodies ...” is a bit confusing.

My Dad once told me nothing would come to those unwilling to fight for it, and just talking about the injustices handed to us will get you nowhere. We must be willing to fight if necessary to get what is due to us. I know he, my Dad, arrived at that position after listening to the Hon. ET Joshua in the market square at one of his many pre-independence speeches because I was there with him. At that time, “Papa” Joshua was willing to

fight for Independence, while the Hon. RM Cato was engaged in talks with the “Empire” about our Independence. You see, the Hon. ET Joshua was willing to fight for our freedom while the Hon. RM Cato discussed our Independence.We are still living what we asked for and eventually got from that conversation. Good, but not good enough. We inherited a boilerplate constitution. One that leaves us feeling independent yet dependent on the institutions of our colonial past, like the Privy Council, for any creative interpretation of how we should govern ourselves. We are stuck with a Governor General approved by the Crown. A system to honour our living heroes with badges and titles that no longer mean anything to us. And a public safety department still being referred to as “The Royal Police Force.”

Our constitution is a skillfully designed document that is almost impossible to change in today’s political environment. This document was so well designed that it makes the “West Indies Royal Reader” version of the reasons for the abolition of slavery sound natural and organic. It makes the Jamaican version of why the apprenticeship period was forced upon the British in 1838 sound real. “Thanks, Rev. James Phillipo.” Who is he, you may ask? The English Baptist Preacherman who bought 25 acres of land in anticipation of the Emancipation Act of 1834 for 100 pounds, subdivided it into one-quarter acre lots, and sold each lot for three pounds, a 200% markup. Thus, making a healthy profit of 66% on his investment. You see why I do not think emancipation was a humanitarian or moral awakening. Ok, his first Jamaican village is something credited as the birthplace of the Rastafarian movement. Our region is full of stories like this one, so don’t be fooled.

I remind us that reparation will not come without a fight. The most we will get from a civil discourse is a placid apology and a promise to help with current issues confronting our nation. Occasionally, some super-rich, guilt-laden person will bequeath some portion of their wealth to some worthy cause in the region as an apology for the sins of their forefathers.

This is not reparation, my people.

Horatio

Colonialism all over again

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT(FDI), as a practice, seems to be a practice being advocated by many of our political leaders. Recently, our Prime Minister was apparently boasting of another institution having so many millions invested in the Region and substantially more to be invested in the near future.

It has been shown very clearly that our national industries - copra processing, cotton ginnery, arrowroot industry, hotel industry, the banana industry, ship-building industry, fishing industry - have all been or being decimated by Foreign Direct Investment.

Where are the latter-day Uncle Metro, Baynes, Stewarts, Eustace, Sonny Ballantyne, P.H. Veira, Tannis, et al.? Something must be wrong, greatly wrong.

During my travelling years, in discussion with a Chief Minister in another State, he informed me that it was his desire to see as many local millionaires as possible in his island.

In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, are we seeing any millionaires evolving? We are seeing the opposite happening.

Some time ago, I wrote about a problem with the financial institutions. Recently, our oldest bank in St. Vincent and the Grenadines went into liquidation and this was after one or two other banks changed hands.

My own credit union, GECCU, has announced an intention to enter the area of house construction although there is the well-established Building and Loan Association. The credit union GECCU had already established a bathing pool somewhere on the Windward side. Apparently, no lessons were learnt from the gas station and supermarket ventures.

Why are Vincentians not investing in agroprocessing, hotel businesses, house construction, fish processing, ship building and repair, tailoring and seamstress work, etc., etc.?

Those in leadership roles in this country and the experts must see the wisdom in such activities for the development of the country.

Apparently, it is a true statement that “those with the authority have no knowledge and those with the knowledge have no authority”.

Hugh Stewart

Congrats to the WI

MR. EDITOR, just a quick note to publicly congratulate the West indies on their recent T20 Series win over India.

It might be too early to say that we have struck on something good, i.e. a team that can compete. So, while I am rejoicing in the victory, I am not going to shower too much praise, too early on the technical support team.

When the team can establish a run of victories then it might be time to ‘big dem up’.

In the meantime, let us hold on to this victory and hope that the selectors do nothing foolish. The only thing they need to do is to add another spinner. Chase is still not a dependable wickettaker.

Congrats to Powell and his team. You have made us proud. Continue to do so.

Charles, Edinboro

CARICOM at 50 concert

CARICOM at 50 concert in Victoria Park on Emancipation Day was a cover-up of the real meaning of Emancipation.

The Europeans went to the African and Indian countries and plundered and enslaved us. They enslaved some of us in our homeland. Others were chained from ankle to ankle, hand to hand, neck to neck. Women were chained neck to neck only to carry heavy baskets for food in their hands and on their heads. They had to march long journeys to get to the slave ships. Then they were brutally pushed to the bottom of the ships which sailed to the Western world with them as human cargo. Some didn’t make it,

they died at sea. When the ships reached land, our people were placed in pens like animals then made to work on the plantations from sun up to sun down without pay. When we refused to work, we were brutalized and sometimes killed. According to findings, the Portuguese were the captains of some of those slave ships. (Ralph Gonsalves needs to apologize on behalf of that wicked participated Act).

Now after emancipation and a whole new class of ‘free people’, the money payment came in and workers began to work for one cent, two cents per day as time moved on, and with the rise of

the socialist idea and the trade union movements in modern times, an 8hour-a-day was won and raise of pay and better working conditions.

From Emancipation (on paper) in the 1800s, we are still under wage and mental slavery. In this country, the law and those that control the law are our slave’s masters. The old slave masters would order the whiplash. This modernday slave master has used the law to starve to death our police, teachers, nurses, and other civil servants and workers. His party supporters must own all the jobs. This is the spirit of Cain. All who opposed the modern-day slave master are

Taking off on Hugh Stewart

HUGH STEWARTdoes not know me but he, as a public figure, has not escaped my attention.

What I know of Mr. Stewart is that he has always been close to agriculture in this country, with a special attachment to the banana industry. If I am not mistaken, after giving service to the Banana Grower Association and having seen the decision by the ULP administration to ‘dissolve’ that Association, Mr. Stewart put his faith and expertise in the continuance of that industry and became a

large banana grower himself and, I stand corrected, even did his own marketing.

So, when I read on page 10 of the Friday 11th August, 2023 edition of THE VINCENTIAN, a piece captioned, ‘Agricultural Consultation’, I had to read it not just once but twice.

I concluded that I had not come across such a succinct and readerfriendly piece on how this administration views agriculture. In fact, it was a revelation to me, as alluded to by Mr. Stewart, how this administration is now

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* Should the National Basketball Federation not be assisting local Academies to host camps as against organizing and running camps itself?

* Smart Toilet Seat just came on the scene. How come they can endorse one of our sportsmen but established companies like Coreas/Hazells, ECGC, SVBL, KFC, etc. can’t see it fit to do likewise?

* Can’t something be done about that interisland airline service that is proving to be unreliable as far as Vincentian travelers are concerned? Is this airline by chance enjoying any concessions for ‘serving’ SVG?

* When is the NDP going to sort out the static in the East St. George Constituency? Or is it that they think there is nothing to worry about?

* How long is the Prime Minister going to remain at home after his recent visit to Brazil? Has he now established himself as the most frequent flyer among all our Prime Ministers?

* What is the next thing we going to give to the Stewart family? Our fish, our real estate, what next?

* Is there another incident of a Minister of Government abusing a female? Is this Minister a repeat offender?

criminals to him. The artist is not wrong in this rape art…. He was not smart enough to keep a dignified silence. The reassuring kiss is the trump card. You have paid your house slaves to entertain you while you ‘downpress’ some of us. But it will backfire on you KomRed. You failed. You should have educated the people on their National and Caribbean historical journey. Give us an early date for an election.

Vincentians go laugh and ‘cut yo throat’ (figuratively).

Christian Democrat

shifting its policy on agriculture to save face.

I have always maintained that this ULP government tricked farmers in this country into voting them into ‘power’ with their grandiose promises for the agricultural sector: how they were going to revive the banana industry; how they were going to attend to feeder roads; how they were going to ensure credit for farmers.

Sadly, I have lived to see a backlash directed at farmers, with many of them becoming recipients of handouts from the same government who promised them so much. It was almost like saying, ‘Farmers, you are not part of our

development plan, so take this little pittance as compensation’.

Mr. Stewart is correct in suggesting that we cannot trust this government when it pronounces on plans for agriculture. How can we when they have declared, in essence, ‘Agriculture dead!!’

Thomas.

Government must address the costof-living crisis in SVG

TWELVE (12) MONTHS AGO,the President of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, called on the government to immediately address the cost-of-living crisis in the country. One year later, the crisis remains. Most Vincentians are desperately looking for relief. Yet, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has not done anything to ease the cost-of-living burden of Vincentians.

Most Vincentians are experiencing severe hardship and are pleading for help. They want the government to implement measures that will see a reduction in their cost of living. Low wages, high unemployment and increased poverty have made the situation dire. As cost-of-living increases, our standard of living falls. Life has become more difficult for families, many of whom are now forgoing essentials and cutting back in every way they can. It is a sad reality that those who have the least are hit the hardest. Spending on necessities takes up a larger portion of their income.

As you traverse this country, you hear the cries of mothers who are worried about how they are going to afford school registration fees. They are also scrambling to put together money to buy textbooks and other school supplies for the upcoming school year. Most families are unable to buy basic food. Recently, hundreds of Vincentians had their electricity disconnected by VINLEC. None of this should be happening in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The fact is, monthly inflation data from the government’s Statistics Department shows that average inflation on a month-by-month basis for the first six (6) months of this year is higher than in the same period last year. With this information and the failure to act, it definitely shows that the government does not care about the poor and working class in this country.

The government keeps saying they are doing enough, but the truth is they are doing the bare minimum. The government has not done enough to address this crisis. Our economic growth is weak. Our economic growth is the lowest of members of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States. This is a government, which is definitely out of touch with the needs of the people. Instead, they sponsor parties and events. For example, the recently held Emancipation Day concert. The government had a baseline budget of EC$522,000 to host that concert to mark CARICOM’s 50th anniversary. Is this really what our people need at this time?

The NDP stands on your side during this crisis. We hear you and your concerns. We know that everyday living is becoming more and more difficult. We know the struggle to pay your bills; to keep the lights on; to put food on your table; to clothe and send your children to school. It is challenging for most Vincentians. Taking into consideration that there has been an increase of poverty since the ULP gained power. For instance, the poverty report, which was shelved by the government, concluded that

poverty in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is worse than when the ULP gained power in 2001. It stated 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.

At the heart of tackling this crisis, is the need to create more and better paying jobs for everyone in this country. It is only by increasing wages can we help people across the country enjoy a better standard of living and insulate them from the worst of this cost-of-living crisis. We need resolved and focused leadership to tackle this challenge, but this is lacking in the ULP government. The NDP has a committed team with an honest leader who has a vision and plan to improve the standard of living in this country. Vincentians deserve better. We have been suffering for too long.

Leader of the Opposition and President of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, has renewed his call for the government to take action to tackle the high cost of living in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In August 2022, Dr. Friday outlined in a national address, the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action. Twelve (12) months later, the government has not implemented any measure to reduce the rising cost of living. It shows that the government is out of touch with the reality of high prices and hard times for our people.

Dr. Friday said, “Go into any store, talk to any person and they will tell you, they are struggling, and they need relief. In the long term, we need a national strategy to create more and better paying jobs to raise the standard of living for every person in our country. Our people need support now. That is why the NDP has proposed a 5-point action plan that would provide support to Vincentians. The government members are saying they are doing all they can, but I challenge any one of them to go on a walkabout, go into a shop, and talk to people, they are worried about expenses and making ends meet ahead of the upcoming school year.”

The NDP’s plan include:

* Reduce VAT from 16% down to 13%

* Reduce the Customs Service charge, “the Big Tax on Everything”

* Increase support for lower income families

* Reduce the impact of the fuel surcharge on VINLEC bills

* Review the list of VAT items with a view to increasing the number of zero-rated items.

Dr. Friday added, “The time for action is now. The NDP will always prioritise the national interest ahead of any political or public relations considerations.”

Rotary’s positive impact on communities

“Perhaps dreaming is not so bad if one dreams good dreams and makes them come true.” – Paul Harris (1868-1947) –Founder of the Rotary Club of Chicago and first President of the National Association of Rotary Clubs (now Rotary International).

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL (RI)is a global service organization that originated in Chicago, USA, in 1905. Paul Harris, an attorney-at-law, was the founder and first president on the Rotary Club of Chicago –the club that seeded Rotary International. He had focused on bringing together professional leaders to promote goodwill, encourage friendships, provide humanitarian services, and foster peace.

Rotary International has been at the forefront in the efforts to eradicate polio. RI has partnered with organizations like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDP), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and various governments to harness the funds and volunteers needed to immunize children against polio around the world.

Rotary clubs have also been actively involved in managing and participating in numerous humanitarian projects. These have included, but not limited to, providing clean water and sanitation facilities; outfitting hospitals, medical clinics, and schools; distributing medical supplies; providing medical services; and supporting numerous disaster relief efforts. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, supported by officials of the local Ministry of Health and the Environment, regularly provided free medical clinics in rural villages and remote islands throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). The Rotary Village Doctor Programme is often considered to be the “flag ship” of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent. However, there have been many other Rotary projects in SVG that stand out as monuments of outstanding community service. Many local Rotarians periodically reminisce about the Fancy Water Project and reflecting on how Rotarians, aided by volunteers from the respective communities, and with partfunding from a Canadian Rotary club, constructed a dam in the hills close to the village of Fancy and piped water half a mile downhill to facilitate the villagers having potable water in their homes and schools.

Youth development has constantly been the focus of many RI programmes. Rotary clubs regularly sponsor programmes for young people as efforts are made to provide them with opportunities for positive growth and development. Several clubs encourage Rotary Youth Exchange and the fostering of Rotaract and Interact Clubs. Through these initiatives, young participants are encouraged to develop their leadership and administrative skills and to engage in community service activities. Guided by responsible adults (i.e., Rotarians, teachers, etc.) these young citizens develop an appreciation for community work and the intrinsic rewards that emerge from doing so.

Rotary clubs also focus on projects that support literacy and education. Clubs engage in constructing libraries and/or mobilizing publishers and booksellers to donate books or

equipment that will enhance the efficiencies at the facilities. Rotary also helps individuals to gain the knowledge and skills that they need to enhance their career development and to be better able to contribute to society.

Donald Baldeosingh, a leading engineer in Trinidad and Tobago, President of the ENMAN Group, and Founder of the Carbon Zero Institute of Trinidad and Tobago, recently shared valuable insights of how such a group study exchange had a positive impact on his life. He noted that:

2023 makes it 30 years since I had the greatest opportunity of my life, through the good graces of RI. I was selected as a member of a Group Study Exchange to New Zealand. It was a truly life changing experience. The learning, friendships formed, confidence building, appreciation for environment, interface with the Maori people. I went to the farthest place in the planet which convinced me that I can go anywhere I set my mind. (Now I have been to 35 countries and counting).

I came back and went to the District Conference in Martinique, thanked RI and District 7030 and vowed to pay back to humanity many times over for what Rotary invested in me. I have held on to that promise and the RI values over the years, and will continue to so do.

Donald Baldeosingh’s sharing provides ample testimony of the significant positive impact such Rotary activities have on individuals and communities. His championing of the carbon zero initiatives throughout the schools in Trinidad and Tobago provides ample testimony of how our lives and activities impact others. We often say that when we throw a pebble in the water we can never tell where the ripples would reach. Rotary’s reach is wide and impacts present generations as well as those not yet born.

Rotary’s positive reach is far and wide. Rotary also promotes training programmes for young professionals and those seeking guidance in relation to their various career paths. Guidance in relation to ethical business practices are often given priority. In addition, Rotary’s efforts are also focused on its commitment to encouraging peace and the fostering of greater understanding, tolerance, and harmony among diverse cultures and communities. These programmes and initiatives are all fostered through Rotary’s ability to network within and beyond communities to enable individuals from various ethnicities, professions, and backgrounds to collaborate on projects aimed at enhancing personal, professional, and communal growth.

Paul Harris, addressing a gathering of Rotarians, once noted that, “Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves.” Rotary has achieved much, and done much, for the communities in which it serves … and beyond. This has been evident through its diverse assortment of valuable projects, the dedication of its members to humanitarian values and outstanding community service, and its overall efforts to make the world a better place.

Africa is on the move

‘Africa will send her noble envoys to you, O God. They will come running, stretching out their hands in love to you.’ Psalms 68:31

AFRICA IS ON THE MOVE. This movement is reflected in the July 26 overthrow of Nigerien President Mohamed Bosoum and the 10th-anniversary celebration of South Africa’s 3rd largest party, the socialistoriented Economic Freedom Party (EFF) of Julius Malema.

We can only hope that the current movement of the people, just as it did in the 70s and 80s when the fight against apartheid in South Africa and for independence and national liberation in Namibia, Angola, Mozambique and Guinea Bissau, bears people-centred fruits for prosperity and development.

The 70s and 80s were a period of great revolutionary upsurge. In 1979 three significant revolutions triumphed that were to have a long-lasting effect on world affairs: Iranian on February 11, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini; Grenada on March 19, led by Maurice Bishop’s New Jewel Movement; Nicaragua on July 19, led by the Sandinistas of Daniel Ortega.

On July 26, the same day as the Nigerien military takeover, Julius Malema’s EFF brought tens of thousands of persons into Johannesburg to mark his party’s 10th anniversary. The EFF celebration rally shocked the political firmament in South Africa and must have created panic in both the ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA).

The white economic elite in South Africa and their capitalist backers in Washington, London and Paris were certainly left scratching their heads following Malema’s powerful hour-long address, in which he vowed to nationalise the banks, mines and natural resources of South Africa.

All eyes are on the 2024 elections in South Africa, where the Economic Freedom Fighters are expected to do very well. Look for the forces inimical to the interest of the people of Africa to do all in their power to retard or turn back this new progressive upsurge.

With polls showing that the EFF has surpassed the DA in popularity, the leader has declared Malema and the EFF the biggest threat to democratic freedom in South Africa.

Africa’s new youthful leaders’ drive and commitment were also reflected in the speech delivered by Army Captain Ibrahim Traore, the 34-year-old leader of Burkina Faso. He told the Russia/Africa Summit that young people across Africa were questioning why the African continent, with so many resources, is so poor and underdeveloped. Why were Africans dying in the mad rush to leave the continent for Europe?

The new leaders, such as Traore and Malema, seem committed to changing course and leading Africa in a new direction that will bring more benefits to the people.

In recent years, military leaders in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and now Niger have overthrown pro-western leaders and demanded that France remove its military presence and end its economic stranglehold over former French territories.

Last week, the foreign minister of Mali called on the United Nations to investigate France for the many crimes in West Africa. The solidarity and unity of purpose are so profound among the young military leaders that when leaders grouped in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) threatened military intervention in Niger to restore President Bozoum, the military men who lead Burkino Faso and Mali

strongly opposed the US/French-backed ECOWAS initiative. They committed to lending assistance to Niger to help the country rebuff any foreign military intervention.

Western military presence in West Africa is under siege. Mali expelled the French military contingent after successive coups in 2020 and 2021. Ten days after the July 26 coup, the new government in Nigerien capital, Niamey, said it would nullify a range of military agreements with Paris.

How shall we understand the July 26th coup in Niger, in which military officers ousted Mohamed Bazoum, the nation’s Western-tilted president? It is the sixth army takeover in or next to the Sahel in the past four years. Shall we write off this band across sub—Saharan Africa as a coup country and trouble no more about it?

Horace Campbell, the Pan-Africanist professor of History at Syracuse University, said the military action in Niger led by Abdourahamane Tchiani, as well as those in Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea, must be viewed as an attempt by younger military officials to throw off the neo-colonial yoke of France and other powers. Along with France, the USA has a significant military presence on the continent. The US maintains a military base in Niger from which it launches drone strikes on supposed terrorist targets across Africa.

France has tied up its former African colonies into an exploitative relationship that demands that they lodge 75 percent of their foreign reserves in France. France invests this money and makes billions in profit. If a former colonial wants to access some of its reserves, it must first present financials to the French authorities, who can okay or deny access. If the money is released, it is given as a loan with commercial interest rates attached.

According to Professor Campbell, the big push across France’s former colonies is to have it withdraw its 240,000 troops from West Africa, end the exploitation of the mineral and natural resources of the region, and treat and close up the hazardous uranium mines no longer in use.

The people of Africa want their resources invested in education, health, water treatment and economic development. The continent’s young people also want an end to American military presence. Africom, the United States Africa Command has established a ring of military bases in at least 20 countries.

Increasingly, Africans are united in the belief that they live in the 21st century and not the 19th. Much of the resentment flows from this realisation. Another point of departure is that France and the USA are no longer viewed as the powerhouses they once were.

We no longer live in a unipolar world. China and Russia offer options that were not available before. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa constitute a powerful bloc that threatens the economic dominance of the US.

These developments do not yet constitute a radical break from the old order. The rich and powerful still have influence and heft, not to mention tricks. What is certain is that the African continent has taken centre stage in its attempts to throw off backwardness and move forward to social and economic progress and development.

Pan all the way

THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY on July 24, 2023, passed a resolution tabled by Trinidad and Tobago declaring August 11 as World Steel Pan Day, and this country was not going to be left out of the celebrations to mark the day.

Five steel orchestrasGenesis, Elite, Epic, Starlift,

and Symphonix — formed the nucleus of a concert dubbed ‘In D Streets’, with the steel orchestras lining the section of Bay Street once referred to as ‘Unity Square’, that includes the area in front of CobbleStone Hotel and the Immigration Office.

Genesis got the ball rolling,

presenting a variety of genres. Those included reggae numbers like ‘Light your fire’, ‘New found love’ and Vincentian reggae artist Abuza’s ‘Love and patience’. Their calypso segment included Winston Soso’s ‘I don’t care’, Shaunelle Mckenzie’s ‘Up in dey’, Johnny Rebel’s ‘Musical ride’, and Olatunji’s ‘Engine Room’

But it was their rendition of the ‘Jus Bus’ 2023 composition that revived memories of the recent carnival festivities, and jolted the crowd into spontaneous revelry.

Leaf Elite Steel Orchestra used the occasion to showcase young pannists from their Summer School Programme, and ensuring in a way the future of the pan music. They displayed a variety of musical styles.

An energized Epic Steel Orchestra kept the audience entertained. Their play list included: ‘Don’t leave me this way’, ‘Human nature’, ‘Coming in from the cold’, and the Spanish influenced ‘Guantanamera’.

No one could deny Starlift their experience as the oldest steel orchestra and their performance, their contribution, justified their honour as the most decorated steel orchestra in the land.

Symphonix Steel Orchestra brought the curtain down on the affair by which time the crowd had been mesmerized.

Prime Minister Dr.

Ralph Gonsalves came to “lime” and suggested that Rodney Small, President of the Youlou Pan Movement (YPM), organisers of the event, pay for his address.

Gonsalves echoed his appeal for two days of cultural and sporting activity in October.

Culture Minister Carlos James commended the YPM and urged persons to join the steelband fraternity.

As advertised, guest artistes were also on hand, with 2023 Ragga Soca Monarch, Javid ‘Jay R’ Rouse, contributing;

and ‘Jamesy P’ Morgan creating a stir with new as well as established numbers. Reigning Soca Monarch Fireman Hooper blended vocals under the ‘Epic’ banner. That was after a rhythmic enforcement with renown pan tuner Francis ‘Pes’ Llewellyn in the section.

President of the Youlou Pan Movement Rodney Small confirmed that another concert, ‘In D Street Link Up’, is scheduled for Barrouallie, Sunday August 20. Starting time: 3:00pm. (WKA)

The outpouring of support for the ‘In D Street’ concert augurs well for the future of steel pan music in SVG.

Genesis Steel Orchestra

Leaf Elite Steel Orchestra

NPL Epic Sounds Steel Orchestra

Hennessy Starlift Steel Orchestra

Symphonix Steel Orchestra

Police supporting childrenÊs education

advice. He wants them to study, teach, be upstanding, disciplined, have enjoyment, be number one, and thankful to God.

Recipients of scholarship and bursaries at last week Tuesday’s A joint Awards Ceremony.

CHILDREN HERE HAVE A FOUNDATION on which they can build their career. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police is ensuring that those who complete the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment, have easy access to their educational needs.

Commissioner of Police

Colin John noted that money was deducted from members for the scholarships. He described the assistance to students as “the best for secondary school in St.

Vincent and the Grenadines.”

John hinted on increasing transport. At Form Five, they don’t have to worry about subject fees. The police make the payments. The consideration extends to those at the Community College.

He praised Ministry of Education’s representative Mavis Findlay Joseph who lauded the Police for their “commitment in empowering our future leaders.”

The Commissioner used the word Student as a platform for

Students attached to any Police outfit qualify. Bernard Williams Jr., a member of the Layou Police Youth Club, received the Sergeant Philbert Chambers Memorial Scholarship. He placed 61st for Boys and 115th overall at the CPEA staged this year. Young Williams was one of 97 students accorded a financial cushion. Seventyone of those were from the Police Force itself.

Twenty-three bursaries came through the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Cooperative Credit Union. Director Brenton Smith urged students to “make the best use of the opportunity.”

President of the Ex-Police Association, Former Commission of Police Michael Charles, welcomed the new awardees. He noted that the figure has increased to 14 since the introduction by Horace Williams.

Jadiah Sampson, guest speaker and previous scholarship winner, urged the 2023 recipients to see very challenge as an opportunity Police supporting children’s education.

Funds to support this segment come from activities in front the Police headquarters in Kingstown.

Jadiah Sampson can vouch for the impact of the Police intervention. She is awaiting results of her Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exam.

Sampson imparted some experience to her new colleagues. She warned that success is not an easy road

and that one must be prepared to embrace challenges. “Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger,” she said and implored students “not to take this scholarship for granted.”

The Scholarship and Bursary Awards ceremony came off at the Kingstown Baptist Church last Tuesday, August 15. (Stories by WKA)

Awardees urged to stay on course

STUDENTS

BENEFITTINGfrom the St. Vincent Building and Loan Association (SVGBLA)

Scholarship Programme have been advised to stay on course with their career goals.

That’s the advice from Organisation and Business Consultant Franz George who delivered one of the motivational addresses at last Wednesday’s Scholarship Awards Ceemony held at the SVBLA Headquarters, Kingstown. Three scholarships, based on

performances in the 2023 CPEA, were awarded to children of Association members. They were: Drez Compton who placed fifth for Boys and fifth overall, Mya Samuel - seventh for Girls and 19th overall, and Phoenix Rose Boyea who copped the 17th position for Girls and 35th overall.

They will each get $1200 a year to take them through their secondary schooling.

George, a former scholarship winner, considered it nostalgic returning to the foundation of his academic base. He rehashed the theme: ‘Distractions don’t look like distractions until they finish distracting you’.

George pointed out ways to keep focused.

Kimya Glasgow, Founder and Creative Director of the Kimya Glasgow Brand, also had some advice on how to ‘thrive amidst distractions”.

“You must have an understanding of what exactly you want to achieve,” George stated. That relates to whatever your environment is: school, college, or university.

George outlined the importance of writing down things to do, deciding which are most important, and keeping track.

He wants students to reach the top. Obstacles must be avoided. “Put down

Franz George, Organisation and Business Consultant, advised the awardees to “put down the phones”.

the phone,” George urged, as one way to ensure attention to the task. His encouragement was echoed by Kimya Glasgow, Founder and Creative Director of the Kimya Glasgow Brand. Glasgow outlined to the recipients the idea of being able to ‘thrive amidst distractions.”

This year’s recipients take the current holders to 21. Incorporated July 4, 1941, the SVBLA is one of the country’s major mortgages financiers.

SVBLA Scholarship Winners 2023 (L-R): Drez Compton, Phoenix Rose Boyea and Mya Samuel.

The benevolence of the SVBLA extended beyond the three primary scholarship winners.

Students attached to any Police outfit qualify. Bernard Williams Jr., accepts the Sergeant Philbert Chambers Memorial Scholarship Award from CoP Colin John.

Sardine says thanks

A FEW MONTHS AGO, MARK SARDINE – local mechanic, vehicle body works specialist, machinist and as of late philanthropist –announced that he was calling it a day as it

related to his work to raise awareness on some of the country’s social ills.

Sardine trekked the Bequia channel on several occasions on a kayak dedicating each trip to issues such as

violent crime and domestic violence.

This time around, however, he said that he wants to extend his gratitude to those who supported him in his efforts.

“THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, I give so much thanks for your understanding,” Sardine said.

“Sometimes I

wondered if what I am doing makes sense, but when there are other people around seeing the common sense that I am making to stand up for good issues in our country, we have to give thanks,” he continued.

Prior to his philanthropic endeavors, Sardine spent over three decades in the United States where he owned

and operated his own auto-body repair shop.

Over that period, he accumulated several top honours for his work, 65 to be exact, competing in auto shows in his adopted home state of Florida — where he won two state championships, and competitions in Georgia and Detroit.

Among the awards that he received was one at the International Show Car Association where he said that he dominated the competition and walked away with some of the big awards at that show.

According to Sardine, he does not know how much longer he had and wanted to give the awards that he achieved to individuals and organizations, such as THE VINCENTIAN, in order that the youth understand the perseverance and hard work that comes with success.

He said that there were several other individuals and media entities that he wanted to reach out to simply to say thank you.

When in April this year he visited with THE VINCENTIAN to announce that he was “packing in his kayaking days,” Sardine recounted that he was able, on April 10, 2013, Easter Monday, to kayak to Bequia in one hour and thirteen minutes, beating his previous best time of one hour, thirtyfive minutes. And he was able to do so at the age of 65.

“I have pushed the boundaries…I don’t need to go beyond that,” Sardine told THE VINCENTIAN. (DD)

Mark Sardine (right) hands over “trophy of appreciation”, to Cyp Neehall, Editor of THE VINCENTIAN.

Mark Sardine “pulled his kyak ashore”, after a final kayaking trek to highlight special issue on April 10, 2023.

Book Work

by ANTHONY G. STEWART, PhD

ATTEMPTS to help students we perceive to be in need perhaps have caused more harm than good because they have not recognized the need themselves. We may be misguided in looking at others, determining in our minds what we think they need and supplying that need. Needy people usually know what they need and are usually willing to do something to supply that need themselves.

It may be necessary to rethink how we help students so that they will become more responsible and appreciative of what they receive. Free uniforms, free books, free supplies, free bus fares, and free school fees including those for examinations, seem to have taken a toll and created a culture of expectation that results in the squandering of our resources.

One solution is to create a culture of responsibility. The light bill at one school was calculated to be 25 cents per student, per month. Each student can afford to pay. Many are so proud that they would not even pick up 25 cents from the ground. While students would not pick up a pencil from the floor, I had a good business going by picking them up and selling them to students for 25 cents or more. Some who were seen spending much at the tuck shop prefer to beg or make do without essential school supplies that they can well afford. At the time of the Math exam, many attempt to borrow geometry sets. I often wonder how they could perform well if they refused to get the equipment for ordinary classes.

Many think that they can get an

education at a bargain, without any books and materials. Their poor attendance and punctuality are not helpful. When I saw students with high ability squander the golden opportunity they were provided, my response was, “what a waste of taxpayers resources.” Why would a student on public assistance be allowed to take additional subjects when they were not managing the assigned ones? Some students do not want to pay the meagre $50 for the book loan scheme. Students without materials should not be allowed at school because the school must take responsibility for poor examination results.

This is why I invented the idea of Book Work. This is an arrangement where specific tasks are created so that students can obtain needed supplies. I told students that they can get whatever they need once they are prepared to work for it. Some of the tasks were authentic but often they involved finding chores on the school compound to meet this need. Once I paid the $50 book loan fee for a student on the promise of doing some chores. He reneged on his part of the bargain and that debt is still outstanding. Another student refused to do any chore, so his fee was not paid.

Teachers and schools are at their wits end to provide for our students. They need our fullest support. Whatever they ask for, they should get. The meagre fees should be paid without murmur. Book Work is the pathway to helping students get their school supplies. Teaching responsibility is a life skill that all need to learn.

Schahaff and Mayers back on earth

THEY TOUCHEDthe

‘boundary of space” and not space itself, but that did not take away from both exhilarating and nerve-wracking emotions that filled two remarkable women who embarked on an extraordinary voyage – a voyage they – Antiguans Keisha Schahaff and her dautghter Anastasia Mayers, - will remember forever.

Keisha Schahaff, a 46-year-old health and wellness coach, at her home in Antigua, had won two tickets to space in November 2021. She had entered a sweepstake a month prior for the $450,000 opportunity after seeing an ad while travelling. It was a prize beyond her wildest imagination but one which she and Anatasia welcomed, i.e., to venture into space on the Unity space plane which was cradled beneath the wings of Virgin’s VMS Eve carrier jet.

The flight took off at 11 am EDT on Thursday 10th August, 2023, from the runway of Spaceport America, situated in the New Mexico desert near White Sands Missile Range.

On reaching a height of approximately 45,000 feet, Unity was released, a remarkable sight as it detached from the carrier jet’s wing.

A heartbeat later, the ship’s hybrid rocket motor ignited, propelling it (Unity) on a nearly vertical trajectory, piercing through the lower atmosphere.

Among bated breaths, raised heart beats, mouths covered with hands, spectators beheld the sight with awe. The world watched as the spacecraft reached a maximum altitude of nearly 55 miles — a realm recognised by NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration as the revered “boundary” of space.

An obviously elated Schahaff’ shared her thoughts post-flight: “I’m still up there. I’m not here yet. It was so comfortable,” she said.

The night preceding the journey was a blend of excitement and anxiety, that ended with moment of clarity as Schahaff gazed at the sky.

“Last night, I didn’t sleep very well because I had so much excitement and at the same time anxiety. I woke up feeling ready and I went outside and I just looked up at the sky and it was remarkably clear. I could see the stars. I could see the moon and it felt like the universe was connecting with me again and said you’re invited, come!” she told the Antigua Observer.

Schahaff carried with her tokens of love from her cherished ones — a bracelet from her husband, photographs, crystals, and a necklace from a long-lost friend.

Mayers, too shared her insights: “You are so much more connected to everything than you would expect to be … like you felt like a part of the ship, a part of the team, a part of the universe,”

she said. She too, felt a bit of apprehension the night prior but then changed into a sense of alignment with her purpose.

“I felt it in myself that there is nothing else that I want to do but this right now,” she went on to share.

Mayers’ keepsakes — a ring from her boyfriend, photographs of her loved ones, and a pin from her university — were symbolic of all of the support she had gotten.

The journey extended beyond Schahaff and Mayers, as 80-year-old former British Olympian Jon Goodwin joined them on the voyage.

His 18-year wait to take flight bore witness to his tenacity and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Despite a Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2014, Goodwin was determined.

Reflecting on the experience, he described it as “surreal” and marvelled at

the breathtaking view of Earth from space. Goodwin’s mementos — a photograph of his grandson, rings that held memories of his wife, and a badge from his canoe club. (Source: Antigua Observer)

Keisha Schahaff (right) and her daughter Anastasia Mayers in flight aboard the Unity space ship. (Photo courtesy Virgin Atlantic)

The three ‘space tourists’ (including Jon Goodwin) back on firm ground after a journey they will never forget.

Antigua and Barbuda “astronauts” Anastatia Mayers and Keisha Schahaff alongside CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) Colin C. James (2nd from left), and ABTA US Director of Tourism Dean Fenton. (Photo courtesy: Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority)

Stop the foolishness, man

Dear George,

MY WIFE and I are at loggerheads right now over what I consider a non-issue. She was doing my laundry and in searching my pants pockets she found a piece of paper with a number on it. It had only 4 digits. But she claimed it was a telephone number for a woman.

Now George, I know what the number is but I have refused to say simply because of her rush to judge me. Let her hold on to the belief that it is someone else’s telephone number. She is busy making phone calls and playing the guessing game.

This is embarrassing to me and she must stop it. I am giving her one more week to turn this around or else she will not believe what would happen. What right has she got in the first place to search my pockets? This has me very mad and mad enough to pack it all in. Let her continue to test me.

Angry and Fed Up.

Dear Angry and Fed Up,

Are you seriously questioning your wife’s right to search your pockets when doing your laundry? The mere fact that you would make an issue out of that implies that you do have something to hide. Why would you be so upset with her for making certain she does not mistakenly destroy something of value that may be forgotten in your pockets?

If you know what the number is about then why not just tell her and so prevent any unnecessary arguments? Your unnatural reaction to this situation is what is giving your wife reasons to believe you are not bring truthful of faithful.

You should brush up on your attitude and anything that you might be doing that’s sending her messages. This is an opportunity for both of you to start working on rebuilding the trust in the relationship.

George.

Watch what you eat!!!

Dear George, I HAVEnot been faithful to my wife but she would swear for me to anyone.

One month ago I told the woman I have been seeing that I’m done with her. She did not take it well and threatened that if she cannot have me then my wife is not going to either.

A day after saying that, she apologized and said she would agree for us to be friends. Right after that exchange, she cooked me my favorite meal and immediately after consuming it, I began to feel sick. Two days after I ate the same

meal from her and the same thing happened. The doctor told me that condition could be connected to something I ingested.

George. I did not want to believe what I was thinking, so the next time she offered me the meal, I invited her to eat with me from the plate she had set out for me. She refused saying she did not want to rob me.

It was very difficult for me to believe this woman would try to slow poison me and I left her thinking I did not suspect anything. I am just grateful to be still alive and to have the sense to stick to my wife and not

to eat anything outside the matrimonial home. Lesson learned.

Alive and Well.

Dear Alive and Well,

This experience should cause you to have a new appreciation for your wife. With no concrete evidence that your exlover tried to poison you, it would be futile pushing that narrative going forward. It is now up to you to keep a safe distance from her. After all, she did say that your wife is not going to have you if she couldn’t.

George.

Should I be bisexual?

Dear George,

I AM A student here in St. Vincent and I have been a lesbian for most of my life, until a recent development.

I went out with this guy for a drink. I got drunk and he had to take me home. He used the opportunity to have sex with me, even though I told him I was not going to enjoy it. I did not explain why.

As drunk as I was, I remembered feeling good during the experience and for more clarity, I invited him later on to repeat what had happened. It was unbelievable the time I had and from since that, I find myself spending less and less time with my girlfriend. It is becoming clear to me that maybe, just maybe I am beginning to prefer the opposite sex.

My girlfriend does not know of this and I contemplating telling her what we now have could be over sooner than later, but I am very afraid of what her

reaction would be. I could also not tell her and keep hitting on both sides knowing deep down I would be living a lie... sort of.

Tempted to Change.

Dear Tempted to Change,

The conflict you are experiencing is understandable and natural. Telling your girlfriend about it could be the starting point on your journey to understanding yourself and finding your place in life. What is certain is that living a lie is not going to help you feel better about yourself. Take the time that’s necessary to properly sort yourself out. Seeing a relationship counselor could help in this regard. Whichever way you choose to go, it must be clear that you followed your heart and did what was best for you.

George.

ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 20)

Keep an open mind when listening to the opinions of others. The home environment will be unpredictable this week. Don’t take your frustrations out on the ones you love.

TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21)

Try to be understanding. Opportunities will come through long-term investments. Things are looking good for you, so open your eyes and get to it. You need a day to rest and relax with the ones you love.

GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21)

You will be viewed as a sensitive, compassionate individual and others will ask you for advice. Try to concentrate on research and acquiring information that will be of value in your chosen field.

CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 22)

Communication will be your best bet. Underhandedness regarding legal matters or contracts must be counteracted. A residential move may be necessary to get a better job. A change is as good as a rest.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG 22)

Social gatherings will be conducive to meeting new potential mates. Misunderstandings could cause confusion and upset. Use your head and do things to your liking.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEPT. 23)

Consider the source before you believe what you hear. Such overindulgence due to emotional upset will be your downfall. Problems with your partner are apparent. You will be up and down emotionally.

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 - OCT. 23)

Now is the time to concentrate on building a strong financial future for your family. It’s hard to stay mad if the object of the anger refuses to react. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long-distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22)

If they don’t want to get involved, work by yourself. Try to avoid any drastic/ decisions concerning personal legal matters. You may want to make drastic changes concerning your personal partner.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 - DEC. 21)

Do not over-expand if you have your own business. Sit tight. An older member of the family may need assistance. Romance and social activity will be a promising combination.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22. - JAN. 20)

Don’t let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance. The key to feeling good about yourself will be to do something about it.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21. - FEB. 19)

Be sure to take care of the needs of your immediate loved ones first. Be cautious of making any residential changes this week. Opportunities to make financial gains will develop through your connections with other people.

PISCES (FEB. 20 - MAR. 20)

Try not to spend too much on children or entertainment. Do not yield to children or relatives when they really don’t deserve it. Others may want to steal your thunder when they realize your ideas are pretty solid.

ACROSS

1. William of _____

6. Home maker

12. Becoming disillusioned

15. Fee for a freighter

16. Trademark for a pepper sauce

17. Existed as a native quality

18. Qualified voter

19. Those who confess

20. 40s Italian film based on the novel “The Postman Always Rings

Twice”

22. Christopher Plummer starred in this 90s drama

28. Barkeep’s announcement

34. Be disloyal

35. Retail outlets

36. Slasher film fare

37. Nullifier, in law

38. Unfortunate 39. Hot spot

41. Acts of repeating 48. Scams

53. Great Scott novel 54. Energize 55. Arrange in order 56. Ultimate solution 57. Derisive one 58. Gazed fixedly 59. Critic’s count

1. Medical prefix

2. Barbecue fuel

3. Office sections (slang)

4. “It’s ___ against time”

5. Light rains

6. Silent

7. Resound

8. Distort in a misleading way

9. Weigh food wrapping

10. Elbe tributary

11. Scarlets

13. Sgts., e.g.

14. Big ape

15. Paul Anka’s first hit

21. Lamp liquid

23. Lowly worker

24. Sicily volcano

25. Fields expletive

26. British general in America

27. Watched

28. Page (through)

29. ____ dexterous (can use both hands)

30. Practice in the ring

31. Shlep

32. This season’s carrots

33. Moved the troops, in a certain way

U18 ITF first round titles decided

Baggio Danesi, the highest world ranked player and the number 1 seeded player in the tournament, defeated his countryman Luca Acioly, the tournament’s number 3 seed; two sets to luv (7-6, 7-6), to take the U18 Boys singles title.

Gutierrez Arreaga of Guatemala and Zachary Whittington of the USA, in the finals, to take the Male Doubles title.

PLAYERS FROM THE MAINLAND TERRITORIES were in dominant form as they took both the male

and female singles and doubles titles in the first of two tournaments in the IFT World Tennis Junior Tournament, played at the National Tennis Centre at Villa.

Brazil’s Ettore Romeo

Taking the Girls singles championship title was Cookie JavisTredgette, the number 6 seed of Canada. She beat Olivia Allegre of the USA two sets to luv (6-2, 6-4).

Brazilians Baggio Danesi and Luca Acioly teamed up to inflict a 77, 6-1 beating on Javier

SVG gives ‘good showing’

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Jordan Dookie and her Barbadian partner Serena Bryan came from a set down against the USA sisters pairing of Camille and Olivia Allegre, to capture the Girls Under-18 Doubles title.

This, the first of two tournaments, concluded last Friday.

Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN

DESPITE NOT RETURNINGwith a ‘suitcase’ of silverware from the 2023 Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament that concluded in St. Lucia August 10, tennis officials are convinced that the Vincentian contingent gave a good showing.

When it was all over, Danelle Kennedy showed brightest among the

Vincentians. Seeded number 2, she went under 4-1, 4-5(4), 5-3 to number 1 seed, Suri Ramcharan of Trinidad and Tobago in the finals of the Under-12 Girls Singles. She, however, teamed up with the said Ramcharan to claim gold in the Under-12 Doubles, the unlikely duo dispensing with the Guyanese pair of Kimora Erskine and Niomi Erskine. It was left up to Matthew Clarke to add to the tally of medals for the

Vincentians. Clarke defeated Tahj Goodman of St. Lucia, 4-2, 4-2, to take the Under-12 Consolation.

Those who also champed in the Tournament were:

* Girls U14 Champion Makeda Bain from Trinidad & Tobago;

* Girls U12 Champion Cyra Ramcharran from Trinidad & Tobago;

* Boys U12 Champions Denney Estava from St. Lucia;

* Boys U14 Consolation Champion Christopher Khan from Trinidad & Tobago;

* Boys U14 Doubles Mateo Herraete from Guatemala and Mateo

The competition for places in the final squad is intense and should bring out the best in the players.

Male Cricket trial squads announced

EACH OF THE 32 PLAYERScalled up for ‘trials’ by the SVG Cricket Association will be putting his best foot forward in an effort to gain selection to the national senior male team, that will represent this country in the Windward Islands Senior Tournament.

The Tournament is scheduled to be played in SVG.

Jutierrez El Salvador. The tournament was contested by players from Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Cuba and host St. Lucia.

The 32 players selected are to be divided into two squads — the Winston Davis X1 and the Frank Mason X1 - each of sixteen players, and will be involved in at least five trial matches set for August 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th and 30th.

Training commenced earlier this week at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex and will continue from Tuesday to Friday for the next two weeks.

The Mason X1 is comprised of: Desron Maloney, Romano Pierre, Keron Cottoy, Shaman Hooper, Tilron Harry, Jaheil Walters, Othneil Lewis, Benniton Stapleton, Ray Jordan, Rayon Williams, Kirtney Franklyn, Romaro Bibby, Rasheed Frederick, Luke Wilson, Jeremy Haywood, and Ethan Gibson.

The Davis X1 reads: Sunil Ambris, Gidron Pope, Derron Greves, Dillon Douglas, Desron Hoyte, Reshawn Lewis, Kenneth Dember, Dean Browne, Keswick Williams, Darious Martin, Solomon Bascombe, Devonte McDowall, Watson Seaton, Geron Wyllie, Ojay Mathews, and Jeremy Layne.

Asif Hooper, who is currently out of state, will be considered for selection.

(L-R): Ettore Romeo Baggio Danesi, Singles Champion, with his Champion Doubles partner, Luca Acioly.

Danelle Kennedy (left) and her U12 Doubles winning partner Siri Ramcharan.

Matthew Clarke was the only Singles winner for the Vincentians.

The Vincentian playing contingent to the 2023 Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament, in St. Lucia.

Cookie JavisTredgette- Female Singles Champion.

Right: (L-R): T&T’s Jordan Dookie and her Barbadian partner Serena Bryan came from a set down to capture the Female Doubles title.

Phernel Charles is hopeful that she will get an opportunity soon to avail her umpiring skills to the game in her homeland.

a

Charles shifts to umpiring

Indies medium fast bowler’s unwavering love for Cricket, has transitioned to the field of umpiring.

A resident of New York, USA, for the past four years, Charles’ services are being used in leagues across the tristate.

Delighted at her accomplishments thus far, Charles said that her “confidence and fairness” are driving her upwards.

“My ability as an umpire was talked about a lot among players and one day, I got a call to

umpire in the New York Metropolitan League, and from that my career has taken off,” Charles noted.

Charles is ensuring that she is equipped with the necessary accreditations.

“Since I am up here, I did my West Indies umpiring exams and was successful… I have my oral exams to do in October and am confident that I will also be successful …I am a certified United States Cricket Umpire, which means I can umpire

anywhere in the United States,” she revealed.

Charles, who last represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2011, and had two stints with the West Indies team in 1999 and 2008, disclosed that umpiring was her first choice after her formal retirement from the sport.

“I did a West Indies level one coaching course done with Ian Allen, but …. I just want to be on the field and in the thick of things,” she shared.

Charles, 49, is encouraging other female

Coaches laud SSTTA Camp Initiative

VISITINGcoaches - Aaron Edwards of Trinidad and Tobago, Kevin Farley and Ann Reid of Barbados, have all lauded the initiative taken by the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy (SSTA), to host a ten-day Table Tennis Camp here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Camp got going at the West St. George Secondary School on August 11 and will run until August 21.

Participation was drawn from Table Tennis players between the age of 6 and 19 years old, from Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Edwards, who is Head Coach of the Queen’s Park Club, was quick to declare, “I think we should have these more often. May be each country should host the camp at different times of the year, maybe one at

Easter, one at Summer and one at Christmas.”

He went further to say, “It is something we need to do to close the gap on the Spanish-Speaking countries”, Edwards commented.

Meanwhile, Reid confessed that the enthusiasm shown was beyond her expectations.

“The youngsters are very eager to learn and I must say that they communicate well… For me, it is a great experience … It is good for me being able to work with them to get to the next level. … Some are putting in the extra work… This also makes coaches feel good, because your hard work is paying off,” she said with an air of satisfaction.

Farley, a former Caribbean and Central America bronze medallist, noted, “It is an opportunity that does

cricketers who are nearing their active time in the sport, to explore the possibilities of umpiring.

“There is a lot of room for females in umpiring, so I hope that others at home (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) will take up the opportunities… especially those who have played the game… It is much easier when you are out there in the middle being an umpire,’ Charles suggested.

She is hopeful that she will get the time soonest

to umpire in local competitions here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with the Vincy Premier League (VPL) being her preferred choice.

In honour of Charles’ contribution to St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Cricket, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc., at its annual Dinner and Prize Giving Ceremony, named the Local Female Cricketer of the Year Award in her name.

not come to regular where you have other Caribbean territories participating in a high level, intense training camp”, Farley stated.

“I believe we can match the Spanish Speaking countries. If we can put on two or three camps of this nature per year, the level of Table Tennis in the Caribbean and St Vincent and the Grenadines can improve,” Farley emphasised.

The Camp, the brainchild of Sean Stanley of the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy in conjunction with the Caribbean Unity Sports Inc.,

engaged thirty Table Tennis players from the three countries.

Apart from the players, parents and other well wishers were part of the venture.

Outside the Table Tennis, the visiting contingents, along with local participants, were engaged in scenic visits and a visit to Bequia.

U14 female footballers in CFU Series

WITH TWOtitles under their belt, the national Under-14 Female Football team is focused in one thing: winning the CFU Under-14 Challenge Series. The games are set for Antigua and Barbuda from August 18-28.

Keith Ollivierre, the team’s successful head coach said, ahead of the girls’ departure, “… It will be a

huge achievement winning this tournament again and then it speaks volume for our consistency because we have won on two previous occasions.”

He spoke about the preparation, hinting that it wasn’t too bad.

“Like the previous preparations, …. we had the girls taking part in the Under-14 and Under-15

championships so they were basically getting playing time so that we would have been a bit more competitive.”

He added, “This preparation is somewhat different for we did not have a tournament besides the school football so some of them didn’t have that competitive exposure. …But we have worked with them to make them more competitive, training them with both the Under-17 and Under-15 in an effort for them to get the experience playing against older players.”

As far as the strength of the team is concerned, the Coach

The U14 female footballers have been in intense training as they look to maintain their recent good showing regionally.

recognized then the defense as the team’s “strong point”, but the mid-field and strikers are expected to produce.

“It is for the girls to understand the game, and once they understand…., then the winning and the competitive attitude will come after,” Ollivierre suggested.

All in all, he is hoping that the “girls enjoy themselves.”

PHERNEL CHARLES,

former St. Vincent and the Grenadines and West

Aaron Edwards (right) during a session with Vincentian - Shanecia Delpesche.

Head Coach Keith Ollivierre has been instilling one thing in the minds of the girls, i.e., Win, Win, Win.

Caribbean Premier League swinging

THE FINALis set for Providence Stadium in Guyana Sunday, September 24 at 7 pm. By that time the parameters would have been established and new players would have surfaced.

This year’s Caribbean Premier League will be a dress rehearsal for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup International Cricket Council’s T/20 competition which will be co-hosted by the West indies and the USA.

West Indies T/20 captain Rovman Powell did not hide his satisfaction with the series win over India at the Florida site in the USA last Sunday.

The series ebbed and flowed and some skeptics might still be questioning the unfolding of the matches. The West Indies won the first two in scrappy fashion, in conditions and circumstances that one might want to think the Indians squandered the chances of rubbing more salt into the wounds of a bruised West Indies outfit.

When India roared back and took the other two matches in dominant fashion. There was the suggestion that West Indies flattered to deceive and that India was perhaps playing to the betting gallery which seems to form a major part in world cricket.

When the West Indies chased down a tricky target and overcame the odds in magnificent fashion, it raised the spirits of their supporters worldwide. There was that long-awaited sense of euphoria.

India opted for younger players, is fact. But any Indian party was expected to clean up a Wes Indies squad no matter its composition.

The series victory over India helps with “uplifting the spirits of the people we represent.” That’s how West Indies captain Rovman Powell summarized the victory.

Those who support West Indies Cricket could have received a timelier injection. We suffered time after time and became the objects of taunts and scorn from many of our own people who delight in condemning the squad for every reason.

West Indians can walk with a stride believing that their team can match any other.

The displays during the qualifiers for the One Day International series will never be forgotten, but should strengthen our resolve in ensuring that level of preparedness is never repeated.

At least one West Indian has shown maturity in the Indian series. Brandon King’s unbeaten 85 went a long way in securing the team’s win. So did Romario Shepherd’s 4 for 31, his best figures so far.

King seems to have adjusted his thought pattern and opts for longer and more responsible approach as seen by his performance in the opening encounter of the Caribbean Premier League. That final is fixed for Sunday, September 24. By that time 33 matches would have been completed.

Jamaica Tallawahs showed signs of defending their title when they overcame St Lucia Kings in the curtain raiser last Wednesday evening in St Lucia.

Kings’ Captain Faf Du Plessis will be keen on changing the result of the first game.

St. Lucia Kings played their second game last evening against the Barbados Royals. A double header tomorrow Saturday 20 sees St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and Trinbago Knights Riders in the first clash, followed by the Guyana Amazon warriors against the home based St. Lucia Kings. Sunday’s double3 header opens with Barbados Royals and Jamaica Tallawahs in action followed by the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots/St Lucia Kings showdown.

The action shifts to Warner Park in St Kitts from August 23.

Mona Summer Programme concludes: Coach feels excluded

THE 2023 EDITION of the Mona Summer Football Programme, an initiative of the Mona Football Academy, concluded last Saturday with a closing ceremony at the Green Hill Playing Field.

Participants gathered to receive their certificates of participation and individual awards.

The programme ran from July 17 to August 12 and involved young people of ages 5 to 17 years. There was no charge for their involvement.

According to Director and Chief Instructor/Coach of the programme, Carlton ‘Mona’ Dennie, the number of participants fluctuated over the period of the Programme, reaching as high as 60 at one point but tapered off to a regular attendance of 30 or so. Participants, both male and female, were introduced or further exposed to the rudiments of the sport, i.e., passing, holding, dribbling use of space and general fair play practices.

There was also much emphasis placed on fitness, health and safety, Dennie told THE VINCENTIAN, and explained that towards this end there was a beach component which helped both with refining skills as it did with strengthening.

Dennis is especially grateful to those firms and individuals who came forward to support the programme even as he frowned on the “lack of support from the Football Federation”.

He was moved to list among the Programme benefactors: The Office of the Prime Minister, East Caribbean Bottlers Inc.

(Ju-C), Tus-T Water Inc., SVG Port Authority and Dominique Sutherland.

Young people in Green Hill in particular can look forward to the continuation of the Summer Programme and, if all goes well, the Mona Football Academy will host a primary school competition and a Green Hill football league in 2024, Dennie told THE VINCENTIAN.

Feelings of exclusion

Dennie used the opportunity of a visit to THE VINCENTIAN to express feelings of being excluded from the national “football set-up” as he refers to it.

On the basis of his CONCACAF C Licence for coaches and his track record, the former national player cum coach expressed disappointment that since serving as Assistant Coach to the National Male U20 team in an outing in the Dominican Republic in 2021, he has not been called up to serve at any level in the “national set-up.”

He recalled that prior to 2021 he had served as Assistant Coach to the National Male U15 team in 2018.

He also served as coach to the Avenues Unity Football Team during its participation in the 2018 CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield championship. Dennis told THE VINCENTIAN that there have been calls from reputable persons for his return to the “national set up,” and that he was ready to avail his expertise at the national level, should the Football Federation make such a request. He hastened to remind that he was named Top Coach in 2015 by the Federation, which recognized at that time, his work with age groups.

Admittedly, only one phone call was made to the SVG Football Federation’s office for a comment on Dennie’s lamentation. No one with the authority to respond was available at that time.

Roban debuts at World Championships

RECENTLYminted Central American and Caribbean Games and NACAC Under 23 Men’s 800m champion- Handal Roban, is St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ lone representative to the XVII World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

Roban, currently the brightest Vincentian track prospect, will be in competition August 22.

The 20-year-old holds the all-time St. Vincent and the Grenadines 800m record, with a clocking of 1:45.95, achieved on June 9 this year at the NCAA final.

His first hold on the national all-time record came two years ago at the World Athletics U-20 Championships, in Nairobi, Kenya. Then, Roban timed 1:48.37, to beat the 1:48.60,

The

done by Eversley Linley, at the Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain in 1992.

World Championships run from August 19 to 27.

Handal Roban – ventures into unchartered waters.

Programme participants, with their certificates of participation, at last Saturday’s Closing Ceremony.

Carlton ‘Mona’ Dennie, Director, Head Coach of the Mona Football Academy.

A typical training session at the Mona Summer Football Programme.

Carlicia Duncan, the most improved female player, received her certificate of participation from Dominique Sutherland.

Man on vacation drowns

From Backpage.

A search for Stephens’ body was mounted but he was not found.

However, on Wednesday 16 August 2023, Commander of the Eastern Division, Superintendent of Police (SOP), Mr. Hesran Ballantyne, confirmed that Stephens’ body was recovered just before 9:00 a.m. on that day.

The body had washed ashore, along the rocky front of usually rough seas on the Rabacca Beach. The District Medical Officer was called to the scene and pronounced Stephens deceased.

Stephens is the third drowning here in the just over two weeks. His followed on the weekend drowning of Kenson Browne of Sandy Bay. Both drownings followed that of Nigerian medical student

Michael Odu. Odu drowned on August 1 in the area between Young Island and Fort Durvenette (Rock Fort).

MAN ON VACATION DROWNS

RESIDENTSof Georgetown were still in support of their counterparts above the Rabacca River after a weekend boating mishap that left one person missing, when they, too, were thrown into their own bereavement.

The air of somberness overcame the community when they learned that

Andrew Stephens, a 65-year-old native of Georgetown who resides in the USA and who was home on vacation, became allegedly, this country latest drowning victim.

Stephens is the brother of Georgietha ‘Aunty G’ Nanton, wellknown Georgetown-based cultural activist and social media administrator of the popular Facebook page ‘The Beauty of SVG’.

A report reaching THE VINCENTIAN said that Stephens along with relatives and friends had gone to the Chatoyer National Park at Rabacca ‘to cook’ (picnic), on Tuesday 15th August.

During the course of time, he indicated an interest in going to Drip for a swim. Residents of the North Central Windward and North Windward areas would tell you that Drip is not a safe place for swimming, though many have braved it to exhibit their (swimming) prowess.

Stephens, apparently against the advice of those who had accompanied him to Drip, entered the water but did not make it back out. The report is that a waved pulled him out and then under.

The disappearance, according to a relative, occurred around 5:15pm on Tuesday.

In confirming the drowning, a release (dated August 17) from the RSVG Police Force Public Relations and Complaints Department, said that the Police in the Georgetown district “are investigating the circumstances surrounding a suspected drowning that occurred on Tuesday 15 August 2023 at Rabacca Beach, Georgetown.”

According to the referenced release, “at 6:24 p.m. on Tuesday 15 August 2023, officers at the Georgetown Police Station received a report of a

suspected drowning at the Rabacca Beach.”

The release continued, “A party of Police officers were dispatched to the scene and on arrival at the scene, eyewitness reported to the police that the deceased was bathing in the sea, appeared to have encountered difficulties and disappeared from view.”

Continued on Page 27.

SANDY BAY FISHERMAN DROWNS

by GLORIAH...

KENSON BROWN, a 25-yearold spear-fisherman of Sandy Bay, was reportedly among a party of eighteen persons on a boat returning from the Falls of Baleine last Sunday, 13th August, when it capsized after experiencing difficulty at Kramacou Bay, an area between Fancy and Owia known for its rough seas and rocky beach.

Officers of the SVG Coast Guard were deployed to the area but upon arrival at the scene, seventeen of the passengers were said to have been already rescued by fishermen from the area. Browne was the only one not to have been rescued during the early evening hours of Sunday, and up to Thursday midday he was still missing, this according to information from the SVG Coast Gurad and relayed to THE VINCENTIAN by the RSVG Police Force Public Relations Indications are that

Browne, known to be a strong swimmer, had assisted other passengers to safety and, according to a resident of Owia who knew him, he must have got tired and just could not help himself.

This was confirmed by parliamentary representative for North Windward, Montgomery Daniel who, when speaking to NBC Radio on August 16, said, “The gentleman who went missing ….he, himself, assisted several persons, .... getting them to safety and was on the last journey of saving the last person, when he collapsed.”

Those who were rescued were taken to the Owia Health Centre, the Modern Medical and Diagnostic Centre in Georgetown and the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) respectively for medical treatment. Up to Wednesday 16, three persons were still warded at the MCMH.

On Wednesday, 16th August, Commander of the SVG Coastguard Service, Dion Henry stated that the rescue operations would be suspended until more information becomes available.

Kenson Browne took many of his colleagues to safety but may have extended himself beyond recovery in the process.

The covered body of Andrew Stephens remained for some time where it was discovered.

Andrew Stephens, drowning victim, would not have thought he was going to his last picnic.