MORE HOTEL ROOMS COMING
by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
A MARKED INCREASE in the number of stay over visitors to these shores is beckoning for an addition to the number of rooms available, and government is responding to this need by facilitating four major projects.
In introducing this initiative,
Tourism Minister Carlos James listed the four projects as: the Cumberland Bay Development Project; a Marriott branded hotel; a ‘Beaches Resort (Sandals); and A Palm Island Project.
Cumberland Bay, the site for one of four major tourism-related developments to come on stream here.
Right: Carlos James, Tourism Minister, took pride in introducing government’s plan for further development in the tourism sector.
The Cumberland Development, according to James as he presented government’s Tourism Plan at a Stakeholder Conference held in Kingstown last Monday, Sept. 15, is earmarked to be a 150-room beachfront resort featuring a hotel, overwater bungalows, cottages, and a small marina.
Continued on Page 3.
PM GONSALVES LAUDS PORT PROJECT
byKENVILLE HORNE
ACCORDING TO PRIME
MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the work carried out on the Port Modernization Project was designed and carried out to the highest standards and quality,
making it one of the best Ports anywhere in the Eastern Caribbean.
Dr. Gonsalves made the statement during an official ceremony held on Tuesday,
Continued on Page 3.
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves assured Vincentians that the new Port in Kingstown was constructed in keeping with the highest standards. (St. Vincent TImes)
V News 3
Insurance companies abandoning clients?
SOME PROPERTY
OWNERS here have been shafted by their insurers (insurance companies).
And some owners who had their properties insured got nothing.
This was an assessment advanced by Finance Minister as he shared his view as part of a panel responding to Tourism Minister Carlos James’ address at last Monday’s (Sept. 15) Stakeholder Conference.
And even as he admitted that many hotel owners and people with facilities to accommodate visitors are not insuring their
premises and if they do, they under insure, Minister Gonsalves said that the insurers find creative ways of avoiding their customers.
The Finance Minister spoke of government’s efforts to “establish building codes,” and of attempts to “incentivize” property owners, but the situation remains that when disaster strikes, e.g. hurricane.
“government becomes the insurer of last resort.”
His response to handling the fiasco is “education, rule-making, or punitive regulatory measures.” (WKA)
Seismic equipment vandalized
THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION (NEMO) is appealing to the public not to tamper with, or remove any equipment used to monitor the La Soufrière volcano.
According to a release from NEMO issued on September 16, the appeal was made following a site visit by the La Soufrière Monitoring Unit to a seismic station in Wallibou, on that said day.
During the visit, the team discovered that two solar panels were stolen and wires connecting the power to the seismic station were cut.
Two batteries were removed but were later discovered in some nearby bushes.
“Without the equipment we cannot effectively monitor the volcano as we would like,” the release stated.
“This is a real concern as the Wallibou Seismic Station is one of the most reliable stations mainly due to the strategic location of the station on the lower flank of the volcano,” it added.
According to NEMO, the station
Missing solar panels.
Below: Severed wires that conveys power to the station.
was crucial to the network as it is generally the first station to pick up any seismic events, therefore the lack of data resulting from the vandalization of the station created a significant gap within the seismic network, the release indicated.
“We must remember that the La Soufrière volcano is a very active volcano that must be closely monitored. Acts of vandalism places the population at risk of not receiving timely and early warning on activities at the volcano,” NEMO stated in the release. (DD)
More hotel rooms coming
Continued from Frontpage.
The Marriott branded hotel, a 280-room beachfront development, is a replacement for a failed development at Peter’s Hope.
A ‘Beaches Resort, a 360-room family resort, is slated for construction at ‘Private Mt Wynne.’
Phase One of anew Palm Island Development is expected to be opened in December 2026.
The Tourism Minister recognised that the projects to come on stream will provide training and employment for Vincentians.
Not to be left out, Kingstown could well see further enhancement. James sees the space on the eastern end of Port Kingstown as potential for growth in tourism and cultural activity.
“Concept designs” for a Centre for the Performing Arts are spearheaded by a Kingstown Foreshore Development Company, according to James.
For James: “Culture is an export, and also an anchor,” and cited soca artistes Jamal ‘Skinny Fabulous’ Doyle and Shertz ‘Problem Child James’ as among those can further culture as an export commodity.
And the projected development is not ‘land locked’. With a rebound in yachting and related activities, James called for collaboration to deepen efforts at strengthening sailing throughout the state and upgrading the Bequia Regatta.
And with fourteen sites already upgraded and/or opened, a sum of USD 20M is to be set aside for expansion of tourism sites.
Sports as a component of the overall drive to keep improving and expanding the tourist product, will be used in the effort to broaden the appeal of SVG beyond sea, sun and sand.
According to James, a “Consortium” is locked in negotiations for establishing a Caribbean Premier League franchise here.
To add to the international appeal, the idea of “building a network of advocates” has been broached, and James announced NASCAR Driver Rajah Caruth (born to a Vincentian father and a Vincentian-Barbadian mother) as one of first ambassadors named in this regard.
PM Gonsalves lauds Port Project
Continued from Frontpage.
September 16, during which he received the keys for the Administration Building, the Container Freight Station (CFS), the Break Bulk Warehouse, and the Workshop and Maintenance Facility.
The Administration Building is estimated at a value of USD 12 million, the Container Freight Station (CFS) - USD 5 million, the Break Bulk Warehouse - USD 4 million, and the Workshop and Maintenance Facility - USD 5.5 million.
The Prime Minister said work on the project was carried out by AECON Construction, an international level contractor, who was given the go ahead by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), as it met all
the relevant criteria.
Funding for the Port Modernization Project was handled by the Caribbean Development Bank.
“When I heard people talking about how this project was structured, we have an international level contractor Aecon, out of Canada. They have done multi-million contracts, billion dollar contracts all over the world... they won the bid, an independent tendering process,.. .” the Prime Minister told the gathering.
the eyes and ears as to how things are going with the contract and the designs.
He added, with emphasis, that the government had an independent consultant who was expected to be
He further noted that the work on the project was overseen by capable Vincentian professionals in their respective fields, to ensure everything was done to the highest quality.
The construction of the Port is projected to be completed by October 25, 2025.
One of the buildings (Administration) for which keys were received.
There was no finger to the lip when Minister Gonsalves highlighted certain shortcomings in the operations of insurers in SVG.
Cop gets bail after tasting prison
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
AFTER BEING REMANDED at His Majesty’s Prison for one week, the police officer who has been charged with the attempted murder of his former lover is out on bail.
Police Constable 373 Kyle Nimblett was released on $30,000 bail when he appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, one week after he was denied bail at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.
The 22-year-old Byera man has been charged with the attempted murder of his former lover, Rafia Sardine, a 20-year-old sales representative of Villa. He is also charged with: entering the dwelling house of Alicia Sardine, Rafia’s mother, at Villa, and at the time had with him a weapon of offence, to wit, a knife; damaging a 3x2 aluminum sliding window, valued at EC$400, belonging to Rafia’s mother.
The charges
Kyle Nimblett bail may have had something to do with the fact that his victim’s wounds are not life-threatening/
reportedly stemmed from an incident at Villa on September 6, 2025, during which Nimblett allegedly used a knife to stab his former lover several times.
When Nimblett appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on September 8, Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie denied bail at that point after Crown Counsel Maria Jackson-Richards requested one week to allow the police to interview their various witnesses.
Jackson-Richards told the Court then that the police were continuing their investigations and the Prosecution was concerned that if the defendant was granted bail, he could interfere with those investigations.
McKenzie upheld the prosecution’s objections to bail, adjourned the matter to September 16, and transferred it to the Serious Offences Court. However, when
Nimblett appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the prosecution was no longer objecting to bail, but requested suitable surety and conditions.
Chief Magistrate Colin John granted his request and set bail in the sum of $30,000 with one surety, on condition that Nimblett surrender his travel documents and report to the Port Elizabeth Police Station in Bequia on Mondays and Fridays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
THE VINCENTIAN understands that Nimblett has recently moved to Bequia, where he is now residing with a family member.
Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he is not to have any contact
with the virtual complainant. The matter has been adjourned to October 16 at the Serious Offences Court.
Attorney Grant Connell represented Nimblett during his appearances at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on September 8, and at the Serious Offences Court on September 16.
Nimblett, a police officer of three years’ experience, who was attached to the Calliaqua Police Station at the time of his arrest, has been suspended from duties pending the outcome of the matter.
‘Gun loaded,’ defendant warns police
DEMRAN BOBB’Sassistance to the police during a raid of his premises on September 9 may have saved him from a more severe penalty for firearm and ammunition possession on Monday.
The 28-year-old farmer of Barrouallie was sentenced to 36 months in prison for possession of a 12 gauge shot gun, and one year for possession of eight rounds of 12-gauge ammunition. The sentences are to run concurrently.
He pleaded guilty to both charges when he appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court previously, and received his sentences at the Serious Offences Court on Monday.
Bobb, also known as ‘German’ or ‘Red Rat’, was arrested when police executed a search warrant at his wood and galvanize shack at Barrouallie, round 4:15 a.m. on September 9.
During their search, the police found a firearm and two rounds of ammunition under his bed covering, another round of ammunition on the bedding where he was sleeping, and another round in a black jeans.
Bobb was arrested, but as the police were about to leave the premises along with Bobb and the exhibits, Bobb shouted to Corporal 778 Cornel Williams, who was carrying the gun, “Officer careful with that, it loaded.”
Corporal Williams immediately stopped and asked Bobb what was loaded, and Bobb pointed to the firearm.
Williams made note in his personal diary of what Bobb said and asked Bobb to sign to it, but he refused. He was taken to the Rapid Response Unit’s base in Layou, along with the exhibits, where the gun was examined and the round of ammunition was found in the barrel.
He was subsequently taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (C.I.D.) at the Central Police Station, where a ballistics expert (police officer) test fired the gun and found it to be in working condition.
Bobb was subsequently formally arrested and charged.
When Chief Magistrate Colin John questioned Bobb about the firearm and
Murder accused makes second appearance
WINSTON LEWIS, a 62year-old mason of Chauncey/Redemption Sharpes, made his second court appearance on Monday, in connection with the death of a 42year-old woman of Long Wall, Kingstown on September 9, 2025.
Lewis has been charged with the murder of Elisabeth Ashton who, according to the police report, was found unresponsive at Long Wall with apparent injuries.
The lawmen coordinated medical attendance, and the woman was subsequently pronounced dead.
Murder accused Winston Lewis must decide whether he wants a Paper Committal Procedure or a Public Preliminary Inquiry.
Police arrested and charged Lewis with the murder on September 11. He was not required to plead when he appeared before the Mesopotamia Magistrate’s Court on September 12, and the matter was transferred to the Serious Offences Court.
On Lewis’ appearance at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, Chief Magistrate Colin John asked Prosecutor Renrick Cato for the Prosecution’s position on the issue of a Paper Committal Procedure.
The Prosecutor said the Prosecution will need an adjournment until about the middle of October to determine whether the defense would accept the Paper Committal route.
As a result, the Chief Magistrate adjourned the matter to October 16. Attorney Charmine Walters is representing Lewis.
Vermont
ammunition, he said he got the gun in the ‘bush’ and kept it for his protection. He said there were plenty guns in the ‘bush’, apparently referring to the hills, as a result of the illegal marijuana trade. He said “You can’t fight gun with cutlass, you have to fight gun with gun.”
Bobb had five previous convictions, but none was for firearm or ammunition possession. He asked the Magistrate to impose a fine and allow him time to pay.
But while the Magistrate considered the assistance Bobb gave to the police, among other factors, he told the defendant that firearm related offences are becoming more and more prevalent in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He pointed out that persons are using firearms to commit more and more offences including murder.
In arriving at the penalties, John applied the sentencing guidelines and weighed the aggravating and mitigating factors.
man on gun, ammo charges
VERMONT RESIDENT Jarel Phillips was granted $10,000 bail with one surety when he appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, to answer gun and ammunition related charges.
Appearing before Chief Magistrate Colin John, Phillips pleaded not guilty to possession of a 9mm Smith and Wesson semi-automatic pistol, and 11 round of 9mm ammunition, without licenses. He also denied driving without a license, and driving without insurance.
All four offences were reportedly committed on Bay Street, Kingstown, on September 12, 2025. Prosecutor Renrick Cato did not object to bail, but requested suitable surety and conditions.
Bail was granted with reporting condition, and the matter was adjourned to October 7.
Cuban specialists to train AIA staff
Josette Greaves, Chief Executive Officer of AIA, looks forward to the transfer of skills and knowledge that will ensure that the airport continues to meet international standards.
A TEAM OF FIVE CUBAN ENGINEERSarrived in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on September 5, to join the expansion and modernization works at the Argyle International Airport (AIA).
While here the team, headed by Director General of the Cuban Airports and Air Services Company (ECASA), Juan Carlos Quintana, will be stationed at the AIA and will deliver hands-on training and knowledge to AIA staff.
The team’s tenure is projected to last twelve months, and the specialists are expected to provide direct coaching, technical
guidance, and structured training programmes to build internal capacity across departments.
In effect, the programme will cover critical areas such as airport maintenance, regulatory compliance, and airport operations.
Department Heads will coordinate with the specialists to align training with departmental priorities and ensure every staff member understands their role in the exchange.
Chief Executive Officer of AIA, Josette Greaves, emphasized the focus on staff development and shared
The Cuban delegation of engineers was met on arrival at the AIA by personnel from the Cuban Embassy and the AIA.
her own experience:
“This collaboration is first and foremost about our people. By working shoulder to shoulder with our staff, the Cuban specialists will help transfer valuable skills and knowledge that will remain with us long after their assignment ends.
Strengthening our team through training is the most sustainable investment we can make to ensure the airport continues to meet international standards and deliver excellence.
“I can personally attest to the value of this kind of exchange. During the construction of AIA, I had the privilege of being mentored by a Cuban
airfield lighting specialist, an experience that shaped my own caner. I want our staff to have the same opportunity to grow and learn.”
And towards activating the assignment of the Cubans as soon as possible, CEO Greaves, Ms. Josette Greaves and Juan Carlos Quintana of ECAS, signed a work agreement on Tuesday morning.
This signing marks the beginning of the bilateral collaboration project between Cuba and San Vicente in the aviation area.
A meeting took place between the team of
Juan Carlos Quintana, Director General of the Cuban Airports and Air Services Company (ECASA), heads the Cuban delegation that will be stationed at the AIA.
Cuban experts and the management of Argyle International Airport following the signing ceremony. (Source: API, AIA)
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
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., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Continuity: Lessons for us
SEPTEMBER 2025 left us with significant expressions by the electorates in Jamaica and Guyana –the largest island and mainland territories respectively in CARICOM Yes, the electorates in those two key members of CARICOM, each made a choice of electoral continuity.
It is now history that the Jamaican and Guyanese electorates returned Andrew Holness’ Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and Irfaan Ali of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) (PPP) to “power”, in general elections on September 3 and September 1, respectively.
The Jamaica Labour Party, though, will return to Parliament with a reduced number of seats, with that number being 34 reduced from the 49 it won in 2020.
The PPP/C, in a system of proportional representation, will occupy 36 seats in the 65-seat National Assembly, an increase from 33 from the previous election.
We Invest in Nationhood political party (WIN) — led by businessman Azruddin Mohamed, set asunder all the seemingly unshakeable conviction that a third party is a non-contender in the two-party dominated system in Caribbean politics, when it won enough votes to allow it 16 seats in the National Assembly, thereby replacing the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) the remnant of the old Forbes Burnham Peoples National Congress. as the country’s main opposition party, and perhaps relegating it to history.
Now therein lies the first lesson. In 1994 when it became clear after the elections here that the St. Vincent Labour Party was seeing its last days, it was resuscitated with an injection by Ralph Gonsalves and the MNU. The Unity Labour Party morphed to challenge the New Democratic Party (NDP). Is there something similar on the horizon?
If for some reason of its own making the NDP loses its sixth straight elections, will it be replaced by some new political formation that enters the next general election, and wins enough seats to displace the NDP into history once and for all a la the case in Guyana?
All of that might be sheer conjecture, something that could not stand up in shallow water. Yet, stranger things have happened in the world of politics, not lest being in
Public Safety and Election
Caribbean politics.
And while we have broached the subject of Caribbean politics, are there any folks out there who will agree the problem with our politics, other than its adversarial nature that widen chasms rather that mend them, is that our politics has been a mixture of common sense and intelligence with political bacchanal.
The opponent must be made to feel the wrath of a titan’s sword not only against its ideology, its programmatic platform, but moreso against the very men and women who personify the party (opponent), especially those who contest elections. Persons have been made out to be the worst specimens of humanity. And the political bacchanal ensues.
Funny, the elections often boil down to a decision so simplistic that we wonder why the fuss and mess and in the end awake to the fact that, as “civilized” human beings, we have made one step forward and two backwards.
But there is more to come. Those who win the seat of government will use all its resources and the state’s resources and apparatuses to remain in that seat.
That inordinate desire that drives our electioneering comes into focus when the distribution of party paraphernalia is said to be a cover for bribes — the passage of hard cash. If that is so, can we get and lower? If we can’t win a vote by due and fair influence, let’s buy it, eh?.
So much so, even when election observer teams from, e.g. CARICOM, the Organisation of American States (OAS), declare our general elections to be free and fair, to have been conducted in a calm and orderly manner with a sense of civic maturity and pride, we are still wont to find “loopholes” in the process, and search for discrepancies that will support election petitions that seem to have become fashionable of late.
As we look to cast our vote, a demonstration of our open democracy, why should it be that distrust, greed, nepotism, corruption and the desire to hold on to political power take precedence?
The desire to unite and focus on national affairs must be the aftermath of general election that should be fought on even ground and void of denigrating one’s opponents.
TODAY,I’m throwing out a challenge to our two political parties: it’s time to step up and deliver a bold, clear-cut plan to tackle the rising tide of crime in our beloved country. We, the electorate, deserve nothing less. Sure, I’ve been hearing the political rhetoric swirling around the campaign trail, but let’s be real–I’m not impressed just yet.
I have previously stated that we have an adequate number of authorized police officers, but here’s the kicker: we’re struggling to retain the exceptional ones beyond that tento fifteen-year mark. Is it a pay issue?
A lack of upward mobility? It baffles me that some friends in the police force seem stuck in entry-level positions after a decade or more. In any job, upward mobility is the secret ingredient in employee retention.
We need a vivid, actionable plan to ramp up community policing and establish specialized task forces that respond to our evolving challenges. The time has come to modernize our police department. We need access to a forensic lab to analyze fingerprints, bullet casings, and other items recovered at the various crime scenes.
We must no longer bundle every service under one command structure. Establish independent police and fire departments and a dedicated crisis response unit. Sure, coordination among departments is key, but this transformation is essential for effective policing in our nation.
On a fair note, I’ve caught wind of some innovative ideas circulating in community discussions by both parties. However, what’s been largely missing from the conversation is a blueprint to clear the backlog in our court system while ensuring justice prevails. We have some murky laws that competent lawyers can manipulate to their clients’ advantage. Kudos to them for advocating fiercely.
Moreover, I’m eager to hear about plans for expanding rehabilitation programs for both offenders and victims. How are we preparing offenders to reintegrate into society as productive citizens? And what measures are in place to help victims reclaim a sense of normalcy in their lives? This aspect often gets overshadowed in our discussions about crime levels and prevention strategies.
I get it–these are challenging issues to tackle. But without a solid plan, we’re going nowhere fast. The clearer your strategies are, the more confident we’ll feel as we head to the polling
stations. We need unwavering commitment to enforcement, genuine prevention efforts, and fundamental intervention strategies. Both parties have a massive opportunity here. While deeply concerned about the current situation, I refuse to be a voter stuck in the past. Let’s discuss the change that is necessary to protect our nation together.
These are tough notes to crack, but we will get nowhere without a plan. The clearer your plans are, the better we will feel about you when we enter the polling station. We must commit to firm enforcement, real prevention, and genuine intervention. In my mind, both parties have much to do in this area. I am not the kind of voter who spends a lot of time looking back.
There is an opportunity to strengthen our current system by adding some more specialized courts, like those for gun offenses and mental health issues. We also need to take the discretion to charge and prosecute petty drug offenses out of the hands of the police; this is too critical an issue to be left in the hands of the police. We need a government that will clearly define its position on marijuana and its socially acceptable levels of use, possession, and production. I need to hear from those asking to be elected what their position is on the current sentencing guidelines utilized by our courts. Do you think we need to get tougher on gun-related crimes and sexual violence against women and children?
We recently heard from the prison officials about the population breakdown, not surprising to me. However, I would like to know the political party’s plans to dissuade prolific offenders from a life of criminal activity. Another area I would like addressed is whether the government would separate first-time youth offenders from hardened criminals and support their reintegration into society. How can we collaborate across policing, health, education, and community groups to tackle violence head-on and create an impactful plan to steer our youth away from crime? Let’s hear your plan to unleash innovative ideas to inspire change and empower our communities.
Horatio.
Getting the „newÊ Port right
I AM WRITING TO YOU today as a concerned citizen regarding the ongoing Kingstown Port Modernisation Project. The completion of this project is of paramount importance to the economic future and security of our nation. It is therefore, imperative that the final stages of this project be conducted with the utmost transparency, diligence and in the best interests of the Vincentian people.
CITIZENS DESERVEa resolution to legal matters within a reasonable time.
With the upcoming elections expected for later this year and based on the recent public reports of acknowledged setbacks requiring repairs to certain aspects of the project, including the quay wall, we demand that the government and its stakeholders have a fully completed and functional
project at the time of the official opening of this project. Vincentians will not accept a partially completed project being received by the government for political expediency.
Such an action would expose the country to significant and unacceptable economic, security and insurance risks. The port is a critical component of
was lost to the owner.
national infrastructure, and its full functionality and safety must be certified before it is officially handed over. Accepting a project that has not been fully completed and tested could lead to:
1. Safety Hazards: Unresolved issues could pose a danger to port workers, vessels and cargo, leading to accidents and potential loss of life or property.
Security: A partially completed port may lack the full complement of security systems and procedures, leaving it vulnerable to illicit activities and compromising national security.
4. Operational inefficiencies: Any unaddressed technical or structural issues could lead to operational delays, increased maintenance costs, and a failure to realise the full economic benefits of the modernised port.
Unnecessary delays are tantamount to injustice. Those who give legal advice should be held responsible to do their due diligence and provide the best available information. The same should be expected for
those in other professions. In too many of our communities there are too many unresolved matters.
While punishment of perpetrators is desirable, restitutions to plaintiff is even more important. When a criminal is found guilty of theft, arrangements should be made to restore what
“Where
the rain feels like mercy”
In this land of cracked smiles and broken glass, Where the sunsets fall heavy as if mourning the past, Love walks with a limp, bruised by goodbye, And pain wears perfume, so no one asks why.
We speak in silence, eyes tired from the fight, Holding grudges like rosaries, clutched through the night.
Stress clings to our skin like the scent of regret, And the heart learns to harbor what it should forget.
We lash out at others with tongues made of coal, Scorching the bridges we once called whole. Even kindness feels foreign, like rust on goldA gesture too rare, a warmth too cold.
This country, this cradle of sorrow and smoke, Is a joke with no punchline, a dream never woke. The flags still wave, but they’re frayed at the seam, And hope is a whisper drowned out by a scream.
Yet still-
When the sky finally weeps and the clouds break apart, It feels like the world is confessing its heart. Each raindrop a truth, too long suppressed, Falling gentle on shoulders too long repressed.
And walking alone through the downpour’s grace, I feel freer than sun ever made this place. For here in the rain, I am not out of place I’m just another ghost in a tear-streaked space.
Yanic Sayers
3rd
2. Increased Insurance Liability: Without a final sign-off and certification from the contractor and supervising engineers, the government and by extension, the taxpayers could be held liable for future incidents or failures. This would shift the financial burden from the contractor, where it rightfully belongs, to the State.
3. Compromised
Justice Matters Domestic Tourism
Those who suffered because of taking medication should be compensated by the maker of the medication and our laws should make provision for this. Adequate staffing should be provided to enable the efficient processing of cases through the courts. A final resolution of the Vaccine Mandate case is long overdue. Absence of comprehensive school CSEC reports denies parents the opportunity of making the best school choice for their children and this is a form of injustice.
When underage children commit crimes, trials should be held speedily, and the punishment should be swift. There is a wide range of community service options available for punishment. Restitution should be made, and no permanent record should be kept to mar the future of the children, should they change. The disuse of flogging should not result in nothing being done. The increase in crimes could be stemmed if young offenders are punished.
Corruption is a main cause of crime. Fairness and meritocracy will go a long way in preventing crime.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
SO WE CONSTRUCT
an international airport, and we invite investors and invest our own resources in building resorts and hotels, all in the name of tourism development.
But what it boils down to is that when we speak about tourism, we seem to be speaking only in terms of attracting visitors from abroad. Even with our festivals, it is always how many visitors we can attract.
In directing our focus on spending our resources on attracting visitors from abroad and counting the numbers, we just might be shortchanging ourselves.
You see, we are so locked into attracting visitors from abroad, we forget that one of the greatest nation-building investments may be right home in what is called Domestic Tourism.
When home-based Vincentians, spend their own money to visit places like Dark View Falls and the Falls of Baleine, it teaches those persons that our treasures do not belong to one group, but to all of us. That we too, just by being home, can contribute to the
The Kingstown Port Modernisation Project is a massive investment in our country’s future. Its success is not measured by a ribbon cutting ceremony, but by its long-term safety, efficiency and economic impact. We, the citizens
request that the Kingstown Port will only be officially accepted when all outstanding repairs are completed to the highest engineering standards and the project is fully certified and insured. The final handover must be a testament to sound governance and a commitment to protecting the interests of every Vincentian.
A Concerned Citizen.
tourism dollar when we have to pay to use the facilities at some of these sites, among other things on which we might have to spend.
In this sense, Domestic Tourism fosters inclusive citizenship, reminding us that SVG belongs to us and we are willing to share its beauty, but that we should be the first to enjoy what we have.
PEOPLE
Encourage Domestic Tourism. Tourism is not only for visitors from abroad.
Paul, Jamaica.
ARE ASKING:
* WHAT ACTION IS TAKEN,if any, against those police officer who are caught on camera meting out ‘blows’ to civilians?
* Why is it, in minor road accidents that the traffic police cannot expedite the necessary action to have the vehicles involved removed from the scene, thereby ensuring that the normal flow of traffic is not interrupted for any great length of time?
* Now that Facebook has been used to highlight the danger at the Fly’s residence—Lewis Auto Sales/Service junction in Cane Garden, maybe action will be taken to ensure appropriately large and defined signage is placed there and traffic police stationed there especially at peak morning and afternoon hours?
* Why does it seem that only one political party is using ridicule of their opponents as a primary weapon in their campaign?
* Anybody remember those ‘little white angels’ from the civil/public service who kept opposition leader Vincent Beache up to date with all the inside NDP government happenings?
* Maybe a certain high-flying individual who had certain comments to make about civil/public servants is too young to remember this or was not born yet?
* Why does it look like the NDP has just awaken to the need to defend its record? Did it opt for a strategy of “looking ahead” rather that harping on the past?
The ULP is massive and ramping up further
SERIOUS BUSINESS BEGINS
THE SERIOUS BUSINESSof re-electing the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has started. All the internal party processes for the selection of the 15 candidates to carry the ULP banner in the forthcoming general elections have been successfully completed. We have used the very processes from the constituency levels right up to the National Council of the party to mobilise and energise the members and supporters of the ULP. As always, the results have been uplifting and point, overwhelmingly, to a re-election of the ULP to form the government for a sixth time in-a-row. The outpouring of support from the Labour Family has been huge. We must now “Keep the Fire Burning”; and “When we Knock on We Neighbour Door, It’s Labour, Labour!”
MASSIVE TURN-OUT AT NATIONAL COUNCIL
Last week Thursday evening, September 11th, an historic event in the life of the ULP took place at Russell’s Auditorium in Stoney Ground: The largest-ever attended National Council meeting since the founding of the ULP in 1994! Over 2,000 party members converged at the Auditorium; there was space inside for over 1,700; another 500 or so stood on the staircases and outside. The National Council mandates constitutionally 150 delegates, but the mood and strength in the party resulted in over 2000 gathered. Never in the party’s 31-year history has there been such an outpouring of members at a National Council meeting. Their energy, too, was electrifying. To be sure, the ULP members were present to approve the list of 15 unopposed candidates from the Constituency Councils and the Central Executive, and to receive the marching orders from the Comrade Leader’s speech; but they were present especially to reaffirm yet again that SVG is Labour country, that Labour is the natural party of governance; and to send the message loud and clear to the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) that: “We Nah Turn Back”.
ULP TAKING ALL ON “THE MAINLAND” AND MORE
The mobilization and energy of the ULP’s supporters on “mainland” St. Vincent raise the realistic prospect of our party winning all thirteen seats, from North Windward to North Leeward and every constituency inbetween. In the Southern Grenadines we are giving the NDP a run-for-theirmoney; do not be surprised if our Comrade Chevonne Stewart is in the winner’s gallery; and in the Northern Grenadines, the Canadian Lorraine Friday, temporarily resident in Bequia, is worried about his political survival.
The massive support and spirit of the National Council gathering spilled over on Saturday, September 13th at a “Red Lime” outside of Comrade
Ralph’s party office in Georgetown, and on Sunday, September 14th, in Vermont at the opening of Comrade Grenville Williams’ party office. The turn-out at each of these two events over last weekend was also huge and energetic. ULP is on the move; something big is taking place.
MEANWHILE FIREMAN DELIVERS A HIT
Amidst all this political momentum, “Fireman” Hooper, the bard of soca in SVG, the mixer “par excellence” of authentic traditional musical forms and quality modernity, delivers perhaps his greatest political song ever: “Six times is plenty licks; when we knock on we neighbour door, is ‘Labour, Labour’!” It is part of the magic of the ULP to combine political momentum and creative outpourings at the same time. It is an occurrence which is well-founded in reality. Labour is the people’s voice in politics, culture, life, living, and production.
1969 – 2025: IT IS LABOUR
Since internal self-government in October 1969 to today, a span of 56 years, “Labour” (SVG Labour Party and its successor Unity Labour Party) has been in government for some 38 years (1969 to 1972; 1974 to 1984; 2001 to now, 2025), twice the time of the other side (Joshua — Mitchell “Junta”, 1972 — 74; NDP: July 1984 to March 2001). SVG is undoubtedly Labour territory; we are the natural party of governance. Almost everything of great and lasting value in SVG was accomplished by Labour governments in communion with the people, including the pivotal decision of reclaiming our independence in 1979. It is to be noted that both Ebenezer Joshua and James Mitchell opposed the move to independence. Joshua said he was opposed to independence under Milton Cato and the Labour Party; Mitchell, quite backwardly, said that there was no need for independence since we were “safe as sardines” with internal selfgovernment in association with colonial Britain. Mitchell’s metaphor was a strange one: the only sardines that are safe are those in the tins, and they are dead!
THE VISION NOW: SVG AS A FIRST WORLD COUNTRY OF A SPECIAL TYPE
SVG under the ULP has laid a solid foundation in every material particular upon which to build “a first world nation” of a special type in our Caribbean over the next 15 or so years. We have moved SVG already to the top tier of a “high level of human development” as assessed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
A bold vision to transform the north of the country
(Excerpts of Political Leader of the NDP, Dr. Godwin Friday’s Presentation at a Public Meeting in North Leeward)
THE ULP GOVERNMENTin office has done nothing, absolutely nothing, to develop the potential in North Leeward.
You hear me talking about the four pillars of the economy. We’re talking about rebuilding agriculture, one of the pillars. Not in the way it has been in the past, but we know that there is a future for it. We have to do things a little differently. We don’t abandon it. We find new ways to make it work, to make it more productive and to give the people of this wonderful part of the country hope and opportunity, so that they can make a living and support themselves. They don’t have to be here waiting for a politician to come and try to tell them that all they worth at election time is something in an envelope. Then after the election is gone, they forget about them again.
The people of this constituency, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we have seen enough. Twenty-five years and you look around and you’re still looking for hope from this government. That is not going to happen because they cannot deliver. Why? Because they have no intention of serving the best interests of the people of this constituency. We have to do better than that.
So, what do we have in store for this wonderful part of the country? We will develop that plan that we have in the New Democratic Party. We aren’t doing things off the top of our head. We have a plan for the development of the north of the country. For too long, the people above the Dry River, they treated them as though they are a separate part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
We are saying that we have a plan in place. And with your help, we will make it even more effective to transform the northern part of the country. We are not going to forget agriculture.
For the fisherfolk, we say to you, hope is coming. You know, you’re not going to have a situation where you have a fisheries complex here in Chateaubelair, and (they) leave it just to rot down; no use to the fisherfolk. We are saying to you, yes, we are going to revive agriculture, a traditional pillar of the economy. But for the fisherfolk, there is hope coming. We are going to help you to become more efficient, more productive in the catching of fish and in the marketing of it. There is hope for the fisherfolk.
But beyond that, we have to think about a vision for the future of this part of the country, for the future of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole. And that vision includes transforming this constituency with its vast tourism potential. Also, in North Windward, we have looked at some of the specific things that we can do, but we’re not going to tell them everything. But rest assured, we have a plan for the transformation of the northern part of the country: to make
it more diverse economically; to make it more prosperous; to create more jobs and opportunities beyond just fishing, beyond just agriculture; to harvest the most wonderful part, the most beautiful part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
We must capitalise upon the potential that we have in this part of the country. We must develop it to create more opportunities for the people. And Dr. Shallow has outlined that in his presentation here. And there is promise of more to come. Shevern has done likewise, some here, but also in her constituency. This is not a fly-by-night thing. It’s a plan that we have for the development of this constituency.
I know as well that in addition to all the things that we’re going to do, that you’re struggling to make ends meet because of the cost-of-living crisis that has gripped the country, and is hurting so many families. We will bring relief from that. We will create more jobs and better paying jobs in this country. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is behind everybody else. Except in all the things that we don’t want to be counted for, like sexual abuse and violent crime. We don’t want that. But that is the thing for which St. Vincent is known.
Opportunities for Young People
What we want to do is to create a prosperous St. Vincent and the Grenadines where we can have better jobs and jobs that pay people, so that our young professionals will not have to leave. And this is what is happening. Our young professionals, IT specialists, engineers, they get a couple of years of work experience here and then they go on to St. Kitts, to Antigua and elsewhere, to find greener pastures because they make more money there. A lot of them, they have student loans to pay off, they’re in debt; so, they have to go where they could make a better living so that they could pay off their debt.
For the young people, especially for the young professionals, I want to give you hope. It should not take three generations for one person to own a home; one to buy the land, one to build it, the other one to pay for it. We have to find a way to help the young people to find a way towards home ownership for themselves and their families, so they could establish very quickly and build a property-owning democracy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines again. That was taken away, that dream was taken away from our young people by this present administration. We have to give them that hope. That is why we in the New Democratic Party, we have put forward a plan that is the economic plan for the development of the country. Because you cannot beg your way out of poverty.
Danger in Delay
“Indecision and delay are the parents of failure.” – George Canning (17701827) – British Tory statesman and Prime Minister for the last 119 days of his life.
THERE ARE OCCASIONS when delays are necessary and advisable. For example, an infant’s stomach is too “underdeveloped” to adequately handle spicy foods. Responsible parents and care givers are therefore cautioned to delay the introduction of such diets at a tender age. Similarly, a child’s immature muscles could be strained or damaged should efforts be made to engage in relatively heavy lifting prior to the skeleton and muscles being developed to accommodate this. Societies that encourage child marriages unwittingly expose the inexperienced and underdeveloped young person to physical, mental, and emotional trauma. Such activities should be delayed until the individual is physically and emotionally mature enough to cope with the demands of such relationships. There is therefore wisdom in delaying such activities until there is evidence of physical, mental, and emotional maturity in this regard.
That being said, it is important to address the instances where individuals, for a host of reasons (excuses), put off activities that require their urgent attention. For example, students may receive their curriculum at the beginning of the school term but choose to wait until relatively close to the examination period to engage in study exercises. This is unwise. In addition to placing undue pressure on the brain as efforts are made to retain specific information, the student runs the risk of not being adequately prepared and, as a result, lacking the confidence needed to excel. The better prepared we are the more confident we are likely to be. This statement holds true whether we are preparing for examinations, an athletic competition, a job interview, or a task in the workplace. Many crisis situations could be avoided if we discipline ourselves to dedicate the time needed to be adequately prepared.
Procrastinating to the point where we do not allocate the time for proper planning and preparation is a recipe for failure and disaster. Stephen Richards, in a blog titled, “The Secret of Getting Started: Strategies to Triumph over Procrastination” asserts that, “Habitual procrastinators will readily testify to all the lost opportunities, missed deadlines, failed relationships and even monetary losses incurred just because of one nasty habit of putting things off until it is often too late.” There is often danger in delay.
Delaying the beginning of the assignment is where the challenge often commences with a procrastinator. The task could easily take momentum once started. Brother Francis, our fifth form Mathematics teacher at St. Martin’s Secondary School would regularly give his students a “push start” by uttering the reminder, “Beginning is half done!” Some writers suffer from what is described as “writers’ block” — that period when the brain seems to have drawn a blank when seeking to write on a particular topic. Understanding or appreciating why this “challenge” exists may assist in eventually resolving the matter. There may be several reasons for this.
It may be that the individual is physically, emotionally, or mentally tired. It could also be that the topic seems unfamiliar and there is a lack of interest in generating the required thoughts. Whatever the obstacles, it is good to remember Brother Francis’ four-word push — “Beginning is half done!”
Some individuals appear to enjoy the adrenalin flow that is created with last minute rushes. They may even argue that they produce some of their best work when faced with time constraints. However, there are others (this writer included) who can testify of the benefits of beginning the tasks early in an effort to avoid the last-minute rush. It is often better to complete the task ahead of the deadline and to engage in reviewing and further improving the assignment if considered necessary.
The biographies and autobiographies of successful individuals in business, government, religion, and society reveal that they developed the discipline to be proactive, to move in the direction of taking action, on their way to their outstanding accomplishments. This is not to imply that they were reckless. They calculated the path that they should take, considered the risks involved, and developed strategies and tactics to mitigate against these. Some nations (e.g., China and India) now have their school curriculum evolve to encourage “calculated risk taking” and innovation. This is highlighted in the book written by Anil Gupta and Haiyan Wang titled “Getting China and India Right: Strategies for Leveraging the World’s Fastest Growing Economies for Global Advantage”. They assert that China and India have produced a new breed of aggressive businesspersons. Their respective governments and education administrators have been proactive in providing the necessary structures, systems, policies, and procedures to enable their nations and their citizens to be at the forefront on developments in the world of business and science.
Some Caribbean education administrators and planners have taken this into consideration and now seek to ensure that our students are prepared for the global competition that has emerged. With the increasing movement of businesses, money and people across national borders every effort must be made to ensure that our citizens are prepared to compete, survive, and win in the global marketplace. It is interesting to observe that some of our regional tertiary level education institutions have embarked on programmes aimed at enhancing a proactive approach to enhance critical thinking and problemsolving. Participants are encouraged to innovate as efforts are made to compete and survive in an increasingly competitive world. They know that there is danger in delay. Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies reminds us to, “See the future and be prepared for it.” Our people have accepted the challenge to be more proactive and innovative noting that there is danger in delay.
Pfizer Papers revealed a Smoking Gun
‘The liberties of a people never were, nor ever will be, secure, when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them,’ ~ Patrick Henry AFTER THE COVID PLANDEMIC was declared in 2020, a massive fear campaign was developed to condition people to take the vaccine, which Pfizer said was created with the ‘speed of science.’ The Covid vaccine, which was rolled out in early 2021, was deemed safe and effective. Across the world, people, corralled by fear and force, were told that once they were vaccinated, they could neither contract nor transmit the virus, become hospitalised or die.
This was a big lie, and Pfizer knew it. People may recall that Pfizer and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fought fiercely to prevent that information from ever getting to the public. They wanted their own studies to be kept confidential for 75 years. In a victory for humanity, Judge Mark Pittman of Texas rejected the FDA’s proposal, ordering the agency to expedite its release to complete the disclosure of all 450,000 pages by August 2022.
Once the papers were released, 3,500 doctors and scientists from around the world volunteered to review the documents. They issued 105 reports. The reports were synthesised and published in an explosive new book by Dr Naomi Wolf entitled ‘The Pfizer Papers.’ The book is a smoking gun that proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, criminal conduct and medical malpractice by doctors and scientists who, to the public, vow to ‘first do no harm.’
Within one month after the vaccine became available, Pfizer and the FDA were aware that the vaccine did not stop covid. By July 2021, Pfizer had determined that one of the most common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine was the potential for vaccinated individuals to contract COVID-19. Yet they lied and claimed that breakthrough infections were rare.
One of the most explosive revelations from the Pfizer papers is that, despite COVID-19 being a respiratory illness, Pfizer seemed uninterested in researching it. There was a paucity of information. A massive chunk of the study focused on reproductive health, including the sperm, placenta, and ovaries. They found that after the vaccine, there was evident damage to the placenta and that there was a 40 percent incidence of pregnant women failing to carry their babies to term.
It gets weirder. Pfizer advised vaccinated men to avoid sexual or other forms of contact with unvaccinated women. If they felt compelled to do so, Pfizer advised that two forms of contraceptives be used. What the hell was in these vaccines!
Among other things, Pfizer knew after six months of the vaccine’s rollout that, compared to all other vaccines released since the 1970s, there were 20 times more adverse events and 23 times more deaths.
They knew women were suffering severe menstrual damage after taking the vaccines.
Pfizer knew that the vaccine did not remain at the injection site and that the spike protein, nanoparticles and industrial fat in the injection rapidly travelled to the liver, spleen, ovaries, and other major organs.
Pfizer and the FDA knew that the vaccines crossed the blood-brain barrier, which helps to explain the proliferation of psychological and neurological problems that had occurred across the world.
By July 2021, Pfizer and the FDA were aware that there were a whopping 42,000 serious adverse events and side effects.
In the first 3 months after the covid injection was given, Pfizer and the FDA had reports that over 1200 people died.
They were aware that there was a tendency for vaccine victims to suffer a stroke within 48 hours after the vaccine. This explains why the authorities, to avoid culpability, claimed that you were not fully vaccinated unless you had had two shots. They knew that one shot could cause a stroke and death.
Many people who took the vaccine continue to have muscle pain and joint pain years after they were forced or tricked into taking the vaccine. Pfizer and the FDA were aware that the industrial fat in the vaccines was inflammatory, which caused pain and joint malfunction. The limping, knee, and hip replacements so prevalent today have been linked to vaccine damage.
Pfizer and the FDA were aware that some people experienced tremors after receiving the vaccine. They were mindful of the risk of blood clots and heart damage among those who received the vaccine. They knew there were higher incidents of myocarditis and pericarditis among very young and healthy individuals once they were injected.
Pfizer and the FDA had information which proved an increase in incidents of dementia, neurological events, and eye damage. They went against established scientific knowledge and told pregnant women that it was safe to take the injection. They knew that pregnant women were suffering miscarriage through spontaneous abortions. Yet health officials lied by encouraging pregnant women to become vaccinated.
What did our government know and when did they know it? Why did PM Gonsalves make a 180-degree turn from vaccine sceptic to mandating that state employees must take the vaccine or suffer dismissal from their jobs?
One thing is sure, neither Gonsalves, his government, nor the medical establishment are innocent of blame for the pain, suffering, injuries and death that have resulted from its campaign to encourage citizens to take the injection.
There was more than enough information in the public domain to cause them to pause. By February 2022, a few months after mandating ‘frontline’ workers take the vaccine, parliament was discussing the budget when it almost ground to a halt because eight government parliamentarians tested positive. They all claimed to be fully vaccinated. Ministries and government departments purged of unvaccinated employees were shutting down because vaccinated employees were testing positive for the illness they were supposedly vaccinated against.
By August 2020, 15 months before Gonsalves’ draconian vaccine mandate, a panel of eminent scientists, epidemiologists, virologists and other medical practitioners issued the Great Barrington Declaration, which argued that the covid virus was manageable and the mass vaccinations, school closings, societal lockdowns, and all other drastic measures were unwarranted and dangerously unnecessary. They were scoffed at, ignored and censored. Many were blacklisted and lost their jobs.
Reports from Israel, Gibraltar and the United Kingdom regarding reinfection, hospitalisation and deaths were ignored. Even as alarm grew among the people, governments and the media embarked on a massive fearmongering and pressure campaign aimed at compelling citizens to accept the vaccines.
Pfizer’s own research found that all claims made about the vaccine were false.
Trump on the warpath: Another boat destroyed
AS THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATIONin the USA advances what it says is a targeted military action against drug cartel, the US military has conducted a second strike on another vessel.
The attack was predicated on the ‘intelligence’ that the vessel was another drug boat originating and/or leaving Venezuela, a White House release said.
US President Donald Trump, in a Truth Social post on September 15, at about 3.57 pm, confirmed that the strike resulted in the death of three men.
“If you are transporting drugs that can kill Americans, we are hunting you! The illicit activities by these cartels have wrought devastating consequences on American communities for decades, killing millions of American citizens,” Trump said.
Trump added that on his orders, US military forces in the
SOUTHCOM area of responsibility, positively identified and struck the vessel.
“The strike occurred while these confirmed narco terrorists from Venezuela were in international waters transporting illegal narcotics, a deadly weapon poisoning Americans, headed to the US,” Trump said in the post.
“These extremely violent drug-trafficking cartels pose a threat to the US national security, foreign policy and vital US interests.”
And as he took guarded questions from the White House Press Corps, trump responded to a articulate question with the a typical Trump assurance that “I have recorded evidence that the it was carrying drugs.
“All you have to do is look at the cargo. It’s spattered all over the ocean,” he said. “(There are) big bags of cocaine and fentanyl all over the place.”
He said now that US military vessels are blowing up boats coming out of Venezuela, there are “hardly any boats anymore.”
And in a veiled threat against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the unpopular Trump hinted at similar military action on land to stop drugs from entering the US.
“There are no drugs coming by sea, but they do come by land. We’re telling the cartels right now we are going to be stopping them too. When they come by land we’re going to be stopping
them the same way we stop the boats.”
On September 2, the US government confirmed it had struck an alleged drug boat coming out of Venezuela. That strike, according to Trump, took the lives of 11 people whom the US government labelled “narco terrorists”, though there have been reports that the persons might have been illegal migrants heading for Trinidad and not “narco terrorists”.
The September 2 strike was part of the US’ increased naval and military presence in Caribbean waters with eight US vessels in the region being deployed, according to the US administration, to combat drug trafficking in the region.
On September 14, US military personnel boarded a Venezuelan tuna boat with nine fishermen while it was sailing in Venezuelan waters.
In response to the September 2 strike, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar ignored any discussion with her colleague CARICOM heads of Government and expressed her support for the actions of the US government.
The increased USA military presence in Caribbean waters and its focus on Venezuela have attracted indications from China that it will come to Venezuela’s assistance should the USA mount any direct military advancement against that South American territory.
(Sources: Regional and Int’l media)
A screen grab image taken from a video posted by The White House, on the X platform, shows what the US claims was a Venezuelan narco vessel after it was blown up in international waters on Monday, killing all three on board.
Yolou Arts on the move
YOULOU ARTS FOUNDATION has consistently paid attention to the arts in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The organization has constantly focused on carrying out its mission, that of encouraging and nurturing the arts. Throughout its twenty- five years of existence the aim has been to help the arts flourish and excel in the nation.
for children between the ages of 5 through12. The programme has been held in Kingstown, Barrouallie, Georgetown, Spring Village, Buccament Bay and Tourama.
This year in addition to offering the annual “Growing Young SVG Artists” programme in rural areas, Youlou Arts collaborated with National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) in their summer programme titled “Conservation Guardians”, which was held at the curator’s house in the Botanical Garden.
The focus was on learning how to
repair and restore the environment and taking care of our beloved Botanical Gardens. Art activities consisted of learning to make compost, creating their own logo, making paste paper to collage their own parrot and making a magic carpet. These art activities proved to be of great interest to the children.
All of this was in keeping with Youlou Arts objective of seeking to empower the nation’s youth, to teach them to be creative while learning about their culture, history and heritage.
Another initiative is the Saturday morning art classes. They will restart on Saturday, Sept. 27. We cater for children ages 5 through 12. Classes are from 10 am to 12 noon. It’s an opportunity for children to explore all the various ways of making art in a fun and practical way. You are encouraged to register your child.
Hold On To Your Roots
Your Roots” is perfect for these times. Today people are obsessed about their identity. People are pausing to reflect on their culture, heritage and values. It’s a self-examination of sorts.
Youlou Arts first initiative is very much alive. Every year during the month of July for the past 24 years, the organization has been organizing art activities for the children of SVG. In 2001 Youlou Arts initiated the art programme titled National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) — a visual arts programme
Another current Youlou Arts initiative is a collaboration with the SVG Drum Foundation - a festive, cultural event titled “Hold On To Your Roots.”
This event will showcase the visual, performing and literary arts. It will take place at the Peace Memorial Hall on Saturday, September 20. from 4 pm to 8 pm.
The title of the event “Hold On To
The need to acknowledge one’s roots is both timely and appropriate these days, that the SVG Drum Foundation should title their event “Hold On To Your Roots”. It is a sign of the times, they are acknowledging the anxiety society is facing about identity.
The event will feature the artwork of several local artists, and crafters, who will have work on sale. There will be artists performing on the drums and poets reciting their poems. It all makes for a pleasant Saturday evening, a time to feed the soul and tightly “Hold On To Your Roots.”
Participants and resource persons involved in this year’s “Growing Young SVG Artists” collaboration with the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority. (NPRBA)
These two youngsters are ready to go searching out their environment with their newly acquired magnifying glasses.
“Growing Young SVG Artists” 2025 participants getting ready to discovering the art of making compost.
Participants were introduced to the drumming heritage of the Caribbean.
Expect to see and hear the Rose Hall Drummers at the “Hold On To Your Roots" evening of cultural and artistic expression.
NY gets a belly full of laughter
Story and photos by
NELSON A. KING
US CORRESPONDENT
naking@verizon.net
PATRONS ATTENDING THE NEW YORK EDITIONof the inaugural Vincy Comedy Fest, at St. Gabriel Episcopal Church’s Golden Hall on Hawthorne Street in Brooklyn, on Saturday night, Sept. 13, got to find out it was, indeed, a laughing matter, leaving there wanting more.
The comedy team of Earl “Ole George” Daniel, Colin Butler, Kevin Roderiques and the Agape dramatists gave New Yorkers a belly full of clean but ever so funny Vincentian humor.
Much of the comedy material was based on Vincentian culture.
Daniel, a veteran stand-up Vincentian comedian of close to four decades, and who conceptualized the show, told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards that he was “more than satisfied with all the performances.
“I had more than an idea what was
going to happen that night, but I don’t think the crowd knew what they were in for,” he said.
“Many of them did not know what hit them as they fell victim to the merciless comedians, who only stepped on the gas as they delivered line after line,” he added.
Daniel said that shows of this nature have been missing in New York and that he was happy that “the opportunity presented itself for it to take place.”
The show featured, among other
skits and stand-up acts , “Lucy”, “Potty”, “Strong Man”, “Big People”, “Jumbie”, “The Jewel Store”, “Shoebido”, “Dr. Death”, “Manifesto”, “Chocolate”, “Rome”, “Sleep on Top”, “Body Confusion” and “Bakes.”
In his opening act, Daniel — who had walked for eight consecutive days in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Jamaica; and Atlanta, GA — said that, on arriving from Montreal, Canada, where he resides, he “had an instant headache.
“So, I went to the pharmacy, and asked for Ibuprofen (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug),” he said. “The pharmacist asked me, ‘where is the pain?’
Daniel said he responded: “She’s back home.” The crowd rolled.
Before ripping the audience with laughter, Butler disclosed that: “Vincy people really pushed me a lot. The main thing is to push our culture.
“If you’re a proud Vincy tonight, make some noise,” he added.
The crowd responded accordingly.
Daniel said the show met his expectations and that “the stage is set for next year’s event.”
He was pleased with the response and was “excited and ready to serve up more laughter.”
Daniel lauded Vincentian-owned Pittance Bar and Woodzy Lounge in Brooklyn for their support.
He also showered praise on his New York counterpart and compatriot Cathy St. Hillaire.
“Cathy ran with the idea and immediately began putting things in place,” said Daniel, stating that he looks forward to working closely with her in the future.
Earl “Ole George” Daniel in ‘Potty’
Right: “Marcus” in ‘Body Confusion’
Colin Butler on his New York comedic debut
Radio amateurs (Hams) stage „Field Day‰
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2025 was a special day for new radio operators recently trained by the Youlou Amateur Radio Association – YARA, as they converged on the Chatoyer National Park at Rabacca for a ‘field day’ exercise.
The ‘field day’ took the form of antenna orientation and erection for HF (High Frequency) radio, using a multi-band broad band antenna donated by Barrett Communications as well as deploying a VHF/UHF antenna and radio from the temporary base set up at the park. The operation gave the new radio operators ‘hands on’ experience in communicating with both local and regional radio operators. These skills are important and especially useful in disaster scenarios.
The idea for a ‘field day’ was suggested by James Codrington J88NCJ who needed to get some practical experience, having recently passed the theoretical test. Also making use of this experience were several recently trained radio
operators from the JEMS Progressive Community Organization who, like J88NCJ, needed to get practical experience with radio - knowing how and where to erect wire antennas as well as putting theory to practice in radio operations.
During the day’s exercise, and in the absence of electrical power other than the batteries used for powering the HF and VHF radios, a pyropen was used to teach radio operators how to make a coaxial jumper cable. A pyropen is a butane operated soldering iron that does not require electricity to work, thereby making emergency electrical connections secure.
The ‘field day’ operations began from 10:00AM and concluded at 5:30PM. The main regional contacts were from Trinidad and Grenada, giving the ‘newbees’ ample opportunity to perfect their communication skills.
Stations located in Bequia - J88DT Sylvester, Biabou - J88NMB Monte and Campden Park - J88EA Ronald, were also received with clarity from the portable station set up at Rabacca, which was operated by battery only and recharged with a solar panel.
Besides the service aspect of amateur radio, there is also the technical and fun/hobby part which includes treasure hunts, fox hunting in which radio operators use directional antennas to find hidden low power transmitters. and other fun activities including parks on the air (POTA) and summits on the air (SOTA) where radio enthusiasts try to make as many international contacts using portable equipment from parks or mountain tops.
About five years ago, local radio operators conducted a field exercise where radio amateurs operated portable stations from the highest points in St. Vincent and the three largest Grenadine islands.
Those station included La Soufriere, with a base camp at Bamboo range;
A light moment of interaction among new and experienced radio operators.
Peggy’ which is the
point in
and
the highest point in Union Island. That ‘field day’ exercise proved to be immensely successful as all stations were able to communicate with each other, on battery power only, using both portable HF and VHF radios. The next outing is expected to be a
maritime simulation before year end, pending sponsorship. Corporate society can reach out to YARA via email: youlou_amateur_radio@yahoo.com. We thank you for your interest and support.
Report submitted
Donald De Riggs
by:
‘Ma
highest
Bequia; ‘Mount Royal’ the highest peak in Canouan;
‘Mt. Taboi’,
Radio Operators making contact with regional and local HAMS.
Donald de Riggs, Director/YARA, demonstrating the use of the butane operated soldering iron that does not require electricity to work.
Hope IntÊl celebrates thirty years
HOPE INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL CLUBis celebrating its Pearl Anniversary, 1995 to 2025.
At a media launch last Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Conference Room of the National Sports Council, Arnos Vale, plans for observing the milestone were revealed.
Cametha John, the club’s Secretary in sharing those plans said the celebrations will begin with a Church Service. John further outlined the other planned activities.
“Also, there are plans to have a panel discussion on a topic related to Football. There are plans to execute an international coaching clinic and of course we want to have our legends match. And finally, we must be able to recognize our members over the years, our fans, our supporters; this we anticipate in a gala and awards ceremony”, John outlined.
Rewinding to 1995, Bevan Lewis, one of the foundation members of Hope
International, related how the team, then club was born.
Though splintering off Valley Stars, a team that competed in the Pepsi Sion Hill Football League during the 1980s to mid-1990s, Hope International actually came from the belly of the Roseau set up.
According to Lewis, Valley Stars had a disastrous 1994 Sion Hill League, prompting his younger brother- James Lewis, to part ways and get a core of players with whom he dreamt of playing.
At the end of the 1994 season, Jamie (James) was adamant that he would not find himself in that 1004 position, (so) one of the things he set about to do was to successfully secure sponsorship from Hope Construction, and that is where the name Hope International came from”, Bevan related.
Meanwhile, Roddy Dowers, the durable President of the club since its inception and the club’s first team manager, said that over time, Hope
International has established itself as an institution.
“The thing that I am most happy about Hope International, is not the trophies and not players who have gone on to play professionally, not all the tournaments we would have won, is the fact that right now our entire Executive, including the Head Coach (Paul Farrell), would have come through our Youth Development Programme”, Dowers highlighted.
Because of its success and longevity, Hope International has become the envy of others,” Dowers posited.
“When you put on a Hope jersey, people will hate you; they will hate you because you are playing and you are winning and a lot of people don’t really like that. We have gone through years,
where teams will come and they will play a whole tournament; A team will be last in the tournament and playing their last game; they already come last in the tournament and they play Hope, everybody coming because everybody wants to beat Hope”, Dowers boasted. Also addressing the launch were Akin John and Kevin Hope, members of the Hope International FC’s Executive. Minister of Sports — Orando Brewster, Shimano Bailey of the SVG Olympic Committee, President of the SVG Football Federation- Otashie Spring, as well as East Kingstown member of Parliament and a former Hope International player -Fitzgerald Bramble, made remarks at the launch. The session was chaired by Kenson Stoddard.
The head table at Saturday’s launch (From left): Kenson Stoddard, Cametha John, Roddy Dowers, Bevan Lewis, Akin John, Kevin Hope.
Participants and CED staff at the closing ceremony of the inaugural Business Continuity Planning for MSMEs Workshop.
CED trains MSME Owners
OVER TWENTY (20) PERSONShave completed the inaugural Business Continuity Planning for MSMEs Workshop held by the Centre for Enterprise Development Inc. (CED).
The three-day workshop took place at the CED’s Conference Room from 9-11 September and was attended by entrepreneurs who operate Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including eight women from the southern Grenadines-island of Canouan.
The goal of the workshop was to empower the participants to equip their businesses with a robust Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to minimize disruptions and safeguard operations, strengthen their businesses’ ability to quickly recover and adapt to unforeseen challenges, and help them gain practical knowledge on risk management and business resilience that can be applied directly to their operations.
The workshop was supported by the United Nations Build Back Equal Project, which sponsored fourteen (14) women to attend. It covered a range of topics, including Hazards in the Caribbean, Risk Identification and Business Impact Analysis, Mapping Critical Business Functions, and the Process of collecting and analysing data for developing a Business Continuity Plan.
The workshop also examined activities to be conducted for business to continue after the impact of an event and concluded with participants being sensitized on how to complete and test a plan, and how to think through potential impacts of hazards on MSMEs using various scenarios.
Speaking at the brief closing where participants were presented with certificates of completion, CED’s Training and Education Coordinator, Keisha Phillips, reflected on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Beryl, the La Soufrière volcanic eruptions of 2021 and other disruptions. She said that the need for MSMSEs to have Business Continuity Plans was one of the lessons the CED recognized was crucial, along with the need for business owners and operators to be sensitized about the importance of having BCPs and be trained to develop their plans. She urged the participants to continue to work on their draft plans and assured them that CED would continue to assist them to ensure they are completed and well developed.
The successful close of the workshop was met with gratitude from all participants, who represented several sectors, including tourism, education, healthcare services, and the cultural and creative industry, and who shared how the training would impact their businesses. (Submitted by CED)
The ULP is massive and ramping up further
Continued from Page 10.
We have built top class physical infrastructure such as Argyle International Airport, Canouan Jet Airport, a Modern Sea Port, Roads and Bridges galore (including the Rabacca Bridge) and so forth; we have carried out Revolutions in Education, Health, Housing, Sports and Culture; we have made SVG freer and more democratic, and have been so assessed by reputable international agencies; we have transformed and lifted the economy, increasing its Gross Domestic Product (the measurement for the growth of the economy) some four times from under $800 million in 2000 to over $3.2 billion in 2024; and correspondingly, increasing average GDP per head of population per year from under $8,000 to over $30,000; we have increased jobs from around 30,000 in 2000 to over 46,000 in 2025, while the total population has remained basically flat; we have made sure that almost all the 47,000 households (there were under 30,000 in 2000) have water, electricity, garbage collection, and modern telecommunications; We have looked after the poor, the indigent, the elderly, the women, the farmers, the fisherfolk, the working people, the middle class, local business people –everybody. We have been part of the leadership in deepening regional integration; we have advanced our foreign policy meaningfully amidst glorious successes; and so forth. We can build a “first world” nation soonest in SVG; we have the base.
TIME TO REGISTER, ORGANISE, AND VOTE FOR ULP
This is the time for the “Labour Family” to register to vote, organise to vote, and go out and vote on election day. The “Labour Family” has the duty to bring others into our big and growing family; there is space for everybody. Remember all our satisfactions and immense progress. Now is not the time to complain or grumble about this or that; it is time for victory again. The future of this country depends on a labour victory at the polls!
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Some relatives will be extremely perplexing. Your emotional attitude with respect to your status and direction in society may be unrealistic. Try not to get into disputes that will lead to estrangements. You will find that friends or relatives may not understand your needs.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Do not lend money to friends, or contribute more than necessary to groups unworthy of your cash. Spend time with youngsters this week. Spend some quality time with the one you love. Your talents will shine at work. Be sure to double-check the house on your way out.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Social activities or travel should be in your plans. You may enjoy doing something musical for entertainment. Get involved in groups that will help you meet established individuals. You may feel a need to make changes to your legal documents.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Arguments may flare up in your home. Put your efforts into moneymaking ventures. You must act quickly. Your temper could get the better of you if you confront personal situations.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Be careful while traveling. You are best to ask questions if you aren't certain about issues that are confronting you. Be cautious of making any residential changes this week. You will have a blow up this week if your partner does things that you feel are not above-board.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Joining organizations will provide you with stimulating romantic contacts. Take advantage of your attributes and lure the mate of your choice. You should be getting into selfimprovement projects. Ferret out information that will hold them responsible.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Get together with friends and do something entertaining but not too expensive. You can set your goals and make a beeline for your target. You can make moves, but they won't be settling. You can't always have your own way.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Extravagance and overindulgence are not a cure if you're feeling sorry for yourself. Be prepared to jump quickly if you wish to stay in the forefront of your industry this week. Moneymaking ventures may just turn your life around. Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You may be ill-treated if you have to deal with institutional environments. Focus on what's important rather than spreading yourself too thin and accomplishing little. Be supportive in order to avoid confrontations. Difficulties at an emotional level may be likely.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
If you can, make phone calls instead of going out. If everyone wants to do their own thing, let them. Romance will be yours if you get out and do things in large groups. Do not hesitate to help elders with legal documents that are too confusing for them.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
You can make excellent investments if you are in the right place at the right time. You will have to check your cash flow before you decide to indulge in hobbies or entertainment that may be beyond your budget. You will need to do a lot of research if you wish to get to the bottom of things. You may find your mate somewhat perturbed.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
You will find that money could slip through your fingers. The existing problems must be dealt with one way or another. If you haven't already, consider starting your own business. Too much talk will lead to disputes.
ACROSS
1.”Excuse me?”
5. Public television letters
8. Observed
12. German auto
13. Mender’s target
14. Additionally 15. L.A. haze
16. __hockey
17. Strike callers, for short
18. “Managed care”inits.
20. Author Anais
22. Convent member
25. Beetle
29. Frequently
30. “You there!”
31. Of us
32. Sharing a secret (2wds.)
33. Conifer
34. Korbut of gymnastics
35. Chaney of films
36. Loud thud
37. Tomcat’s home
38. Robs (from)
40. Mulled autumn drinks
41. Baseball great Mel
42. Train systs.
43. Broil
46. Summer (Fr.)
48. Singer Turner 52. Cooped (up)
53. Bang a gavel
54. Blue-pencil
55. Alan of “M*A*S*H” 56. Tippler
57. Housecoat
DOWN
1.Common verb
2. Ho-__
3. Hubbub 4. Turn a screw clockwise
5. Before 6. Pen-making name
7. Urich TV role
8. Steam bath 9. Graceful tree
10. Psychic’s skill (abbr.)
11. Numerals (abbr.)
19. Male adults
21. Like some winter roads
22. Spots
23. Or else (2 wds.)
24. Pebble
26. Actress Esther
27. Boring tool
28. Donkey sounds
30. That man
33. Those who refuse food
34. Aged one 36. Sandwich letters
Broadcast
Large artery
Crawled 43. Health resort 44. Slippery fish
45. In addition to 47. Truth, in China
49. Groom’s reply (2 wds.)
50. Quill tip
51. Dined
Semi- professional Netball gets going
A PIECE OF NATIONAL SPORTING HISTORYwas etched last Monday evening, September 15, 2025, at the Kingstown Netball Centre, with the commencement of the inaugural semi-professional Netball Tournament.
The government-backed venture sees for the first-time players being paid for their output on the court.
Minister of Finance — Camillo Gonsalves in his remarks at the opening, revealed that the sum of $200 000 has been invested in the venture.
“This small seed investment is the historic beginning of semiprofessional Netball in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is a short tournament, but every
Premraj’s TT outing: A lesson for SVG
LOUKHYA PREMRAJmay not have showered herself in the glory of a champion’s victory, but her participation in the September 7-10, 2025 PanAm U11/U13 Championships held in Guatemala, has highlighted one major message for table tennis in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Premraj, this country’s first ever entrant in the Championship, did not get further than the first round of competition, going under to her Canadian and Peruvian opponents, 3-0 and 3-1 respectively.
According to Romano Spencer who accompanied her as coach, she had a
single player who you see standing up here, will receive a minimum of $1600 for their month’s work for playing Netball in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in this tournament”, Gonsalves said.
Citing growth and possible corporate partnership, Gonsalves envisages an up in financial rewards to players.
Loukhya Premraj (right) in action in her debut outing in the PanAm U11/U13 Championships.
shaky start against the Canadian but steadied as the game progressed and put in a determined showing.
Against the player from Peru, she seemed to be much more comfortable, enough to take one game from her opponent.
Despite not medaling, Spencer said exposure in her first stint at this level will only help her game.
“It also helped to identify our need,” Spencer added.
In this regard, he noted that while the local players have the requisite skills, they lack serious and meaningful
competition experience, especially at high levels.
“And, as we develop this semi-professional Netball league next year, it wouldn’t be government money in there; it will be sponsors’ money from the major sponsors, telecommunication companies and all the rest of them, so that $1600 next year, go look like small money and the year after, it go look like smaller money because each year, we are gonna build the semiprofessional league to make sure our talented netballers are properly rewarded for their skill, talent and discipline”, Gonsalves noted.
The Open Ceremony, also heard addresses from President of the SVG Netball AssociationNatasha Baptiste, Minister of Sports, Dr. Orando Brewster and Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
When it came to the business
segment of the tournament, XCeed Sports Club sent early warnings that they are up for the ultimate prize of $20 000, as they outdid Mitres 51-40 in the opening salvo.
The other competing teams are Sion Hill, Maple, and Netters.
The format of the league sees all teams facing each other in a round robin phase. Thereafter, they will be matched up according to their preliminary round placings, with the five teams each playing another four matches.
Apart from the grand winners’ purse, second place is assured $15000.
In addition, the five teams will receive $500 each as participating fees, while each player earns $200 per match and the player of the tournament pockets $1000.
Match officials are also included in the pay out, as they will receive remunerations per match they officiate.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the league is set to finish October 15, 2025.
“In essence our athletes might meet a certain level in training but they need to play more high-level competitions to grow in that area of the sport as well. Proper training is one step but the next step has to be
high-level competitions to implement those skills and grow,” Spenser emphasised. I.B.A.
Sion Hill Netball Team
Maple Sports Club
X-Ceed Sports Club
Miters Netball Club
Netters Netball team
Semipro female football discussed
THE MALE SEMIPROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE is scheduled for inauguration by year’s end, and with eyes on adding a semipro league for females, government is upping its attention to playing fields here.
“I am excited and looking forward for the semiprofessional league
Orando Brewster, Sports Minister, disclosed that the idea of a Female Semiprofessional Football League was discussed at cabinet level.
happening in the male but even more excited to see the female in action next year’s so we can have a wellcoordinated, well organized semi-pro league. As part of the development, our government has embarked on upgrading a number of the playing fields and installing lights at four
Lady Heat’s title on the line
different playing fields,” Orando Brewster, Sports Minister , disclosed during his address at the launch of the WINFA tournament at the La Vue Hotel, last week Tuesday, September 09.
The four fields earmarked for lighting are the Golden Grove, Layou, Dauphine and London playing fields.
had a 2-0 win over Dominica.
St. Lucia’s goals came from Kayla Polius and Krysan St. Louis. Rianna Cyrus replied for Barbados.
In Lady Heat’s win, Denel Creese and Cherish Laborde were the goal scorers.
The St. Lucians who looked the most accomplished of the four teams in Tuesday’s first match of the double header, put five unanswered goals past Dominica.
St. Louis hit a brace and there was a goal each from Kayle Lionel, Clorie Williams, and Amaya Emmanuel.
Brewster assured, “When we met a few weeks ago from a Cabinet level with the Football Federation about the (male) semiprofessional league, we also started laying the foundation for the female semiprofessional league to come on stream next year.”
The introduction of the female league will ensure equity across the sexes, he suggested.
With the extent of development in football expected, Brewster appealed for support from the corporate entities and civil society organisations (CSOs).
“...It is said that the government is responsible for everything that relates to sports but I can tell you that is not so. We need a holistic approach, we
urged.
UN Women endorses WIFA
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’Lady Heat’s quest to retain the Windward Islands Football Association (WIFA) Senior Women’s Football title was dented last Tuesday night, September 16, 2025, at the Victoria Park, when they were defeated by Barbados, 2-0.
Late strikes by Acacia Small gave Barbados the win.
Both teams went into the match on the backs of contrasting successes, as Barbados had lost to St. Lucia 1-2 in their opening fixture on Sunday, September 14, at the same venue, while St. Vincent and the Grenadines
At the end of the first two rounds of matches, St. Lucia sits at the top of the four team-table on 6 points with a plus 6 goal difference. Barbados is second on 3 points with a plus 1 goal difference. Lady Heat is in the third position on 3 points while Dominica is at the bottom with a minus 7 goal difference.
The final preliminary round was set for Thursday, September 18, at the Victoria Park, with Barbados taking on Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines tested against St. Lucia.
Following the preliminary round, the tournament shifts to the Arnos Vale Playing Field, Saturday, September 20, as the first and second place teams meet in the title match.
Before them, the third and fourth places, play to determine the other positions.
A Closing and Presentation Ceremony is planned for after the grand finale.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines won the last tournament held in 2019. The Vincentians also won the inaugural edition in 2015 and repeated that feat one year later. The other title was secured by Grenada in 2017, as the tournament has had a stop-start operation.
LA FLEUR QUAMMIE, Country) Coordinator for UN Women, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in broadening the significance of the WIFA Football Tournament, told the September 9 launch of the Tournament, “The WIFA tournament is not only a celebration of athleticism, it is a celebration of empowerment inclusion of our Caribbean girls.”
She reminded her audience that, “Women sports is a powerful tool of development, it builds confidence leadership and resilience, it connects communities and inspires change, when women and girls are given equal opportunities to participates to lead and excel in sports we move closer to achieve the sustainable development goals especially those that are related to gender equality and youth empowerment.” Quammie added, “In
this regard, I wish to highlight the important role of the UN Women.
The United Nation entity is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women.”
She continued, “UN Women have long champion the use of sports as a vehicle to challenge stereo types prompting role models and creating safe and inclusive spaces for women and girls… Through its global and regional programmes, UN Women works to ensure that women have equal access to sports not just as players but also as coaches’ referees, as administrators and decision makers.”
La Fleur Quammie, UN Women Country Coordinator, SVG, highlighted then WIFA Tournament as an exercise in breaking down attitudes of stereotyping women.
The WIFA tournament is a shining example of what is possible when we invest
in women leadership,” Quammie declared. And in registering UN Women’s support for WIFA and its partners, she suggested, “We are not just organizing a tournament we are shaping a movement.”
I.B.A. ALLEN
need members from CSOs and cooperate entities to come on board and join us in helping to develop the different sports in the country” Brewster
I.B.A. ALLEN
Denel Creese – converted for SVG versus Dominica.
Cherish Laborde – goal scorer for Lady Heat against Dominica.
Tribute to Joye Browne
CIRCUMSTANCES are what they are. Death is part of life. And so has Joy Browne lived her life. She was a teacher who guided many students along the road to becoming multilingual. She served as President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union from 1986 to 1992.
Joy followed the footsteps of her brother Mike as leader of the Teachers’ Union. Perhaps it was his inspiration that led her into that portfolio.
The Browne family has a noteworthy place in the nation’s history. Mike Browne could be regarded as something of a Vincentian Nelson Mandela. His sojourn in prison was not the 27 years that marked South African leader, but the weekend he spent in the Police lock up here was significant.
The Teacher’s Union announced itself as testimony of struggle, which Mike Browne engendered.
Joy kept the Union in that ilk. No one knows the price she paid.
Under her leadership, the law was passed to allow two months’ maternity leave and an additional month off without pay. Before that, if an unmarried teacher became pregnant she had to resign.
Mike however reaped some reward. He turned out to be Minister of Education here, and Joy persisted with her air of quiet dignity after she quit the Trade Union field.
It is ironic that one of Mike Browne’s jail mates as a consequence of the November 14, 1975 upheaval was Yvonne Francis Gibson.
Yvonne Francis Gibson turned out to be a Minister of Government in the New Democratic Party administration led by former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell.
The irony compounds in that both former Teachers’ Union activists represented the West St. George constituency.
Joy never manifested any interest in politics, at least to the extent of exposing herself on the platform.
She remained committed to human rights whatever position she assumed. Before she assumed the Teacher’s union presidency, Joy distinguished herself as a dedicated struggler. In October 1984, she got into an accident returning from event in the Marriaqua district where she took part in a fundraiser to raise money to help a teachers Union member Godfrey Gilbert.
Joy and the Teacher’s Union crossed sword when she lamented their silence on the harassment meted out to Supervisor of Elections Sylvia Findlay.
Joy represented the SVGTU on the Board of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College when it was constituted in 2006. He separation with that entity came unceremoniously when she was replaced without notification.
Joy depicted a spirit of fortitude and found herself immersed in some aspect of social justice. He life is an example of sacrifice.
SVGCUA Executive installed unopposed
GOALAND GREAVEShas been returned as President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Umpires Association (SVGCUA).
He and the six other Executive members were installed unopposed, when the association hosted its Annual General Elective Meeting last Saturday, September 14, 2025, at the Bishop’s College Kingstown.
The other members include Kaman GreeneVice President; Annesha Richards- Secretary; Kadir Nedd- Assistant Secretary; Afram ByamTreasurer; Selwyn Allen- Public Relations Officer; and Olanzo BillingyCommittee Member.
Elected to serve another two years, Greaves reflecting on the Executive’s stewardship from 2023
to 2025, highlighted: “For the past two years, we have had eight umpires becoming fully qualified West Indies Umpires”.
Underscoring a new pathway to get young and new umpires into the fray, Greaves disclosed that of the eight, “only one you can say is an old umpire, with the oldest one being 45 years old”.
Greaves highlighted the opportunities afforded to three female umpires to officiate in Georgia, USA last year as most recent accomplishments.
Also listed among the pluses was the procurement of uniforms from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc.
Greaves is hopeful he will
Left: From representing SVG, WINDWARD ISLAND AND WEST INDIES on the field as a player to now standing proudly as a member of ICC International Elite Panel of Umpires.
Ten football clubs issued licences
TEN OF THE LEADING FOOTBALL CLUBS here have been awarded a Club License for participation in the 2025—2026 season, by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).
The licence categories cover the Premier and First Division tiers of the National Club Championships hosted by the SVG Football Federation.
The licence issued at this time covers the period 12th September 2025 to 12th September,
2026.
The licensed Tier 1 clubs for the 2025-2026 season are: Awesome FC, Avenues United FC, Caldonia Chelsea FC, Bequia United FC, Hope International FC, Jebelle FC, Layou FC, BESCO Pastures FC, North Leeward Predators FC and System 3 FC.
Dominic Stowe, 1st Vice President of the SVGFF extended congratulates to the clubs for meeting the requirements, including meeting the deadline for submissions of the Club
see Vincentians rising to the rank of senior regional umpire. Motivation toward achieving this could well be found in the person of Deighton Kelvin Butler. Butler, a left-arm fast medium bowler who represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Windward Islands and played five ODI and one T20 for the West Indies, retired from international cricket in 2010.
It was on his retirement that he took a serious interest in umpiring and became an active member of the Local Cricket Umpires Association.
In October 2024, he became the first Vincentian, and the only person from the OECS sub-region, to be elevated to the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) International Elite Panel of Umpires.
Among his achievements are the enviable five straight appointments in the CPL Playoffs and four as an on-field umpire in the finals within the last five years.
Dominic Stowe, 1st Vice President of the SVG Football Federation, lauded the clubs for their compliance with the application requirements.
Licensing Programme, but also emphasized that it was very important for clubs to be in tune with what was required at the international level as far as club licensing was concerned.
He lauded the clubs’ commitment to maintaining the standards that strengthen football development across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“We look forward to
an exciting and competitive Premier League season,” Stowe said.
The licence allows the clubs to participate in any CFU/Concacaf competitions for 2025/26.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Members of the SVGCUA Executive (from left) Olanzo Billingy, Selwyn Allen, Goaland Greaves, Kadir Nedd, Annesha Richards and Afram Byam. MissingKaman Greene.
Sion Hill Hardcourt gets attention
Continued from Backpage.
The hardcourt facility suffered extensive damage because of the passage of Hurricane Beryl, July 1, 2024.
As a consequence, rainwater continuously seeped through crevices severely affecting the operations of the Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra’s pan yard (practice/rehearsal room), located on the lower floor of the pavilion.
Such has been the fallout that the Steel Orchestra has lost many of its pans through corrosion and even theft, the latter encouraged by the absence of windows since the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
The inconvenience of not having a proper facility to conduct practice, forced the Steel Orchestra to opt out of the 2025 Senior Panorama.
A rusted instrument (steel pan), which would cost a tidy sum to replace, became corroded as a result of the water that seeped through the damaged roof of the pavilion.
IN LOVING MEMORY
OSWALD G. ANDERSON of Rose Place
who passed away in the USA on 09/05/24 and returned to Kingstown, St. Vincent where he was laid to rest on 10/12/24
You are deeply missed by your loving wife Mrs. D.C. Anderson, and by all your family and friends. You will forever be held in our hearts. Sleep my husband, peacefully my love.
Coming soon
1/4 acre of land at Victoria Village Call. BB669
(784)- 457-2087/(718)-807-4376 office (784)-493-9431/(784)-533-0431 whatsappcell donp@vincysurf.com
SION HILL HARDCOURT GETS ATTENTION
ONE WEEK AFTER THE WOES of the Sion Hill community were ventilated publicly via the news media, work has commenced on the Sion Hill Village Hardcourt.
And Fitzgerald Bramble, Member of Parliament for East Kingstown of which Sion Hill is a pivotal community, is pleased that at last work is being done on the facility. Bramble who has been pleading with the authorities to address the situation, told the VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, that whilst welcoming the efforts, he believes it should have undertaken much earlier.
“I notice that work is being done on the Sion Hill Village Hardcourt, (on) the roof for the pavilion and the surface which is good. Unfortunately, I don’t think it should have taken me having to go into parliament and on the radio as well as different functions, basically begging them (to) come and do it”, Bramble said.
And as though to hint at the upcoming general elections, Bramble though is warning against any
slipshod work in the pursuit of expediting the undertaking.
“I hope they do a good, comprehensive job and I hope they make sure that the Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra pan yard is well taken care of, in terms of no water leakage, because that is necessary.”
In light of the overly extended period it has taken before any action was taken at the hardcourt and its ancillary structures, Bramble made a call for the introduction of local government with responsibility for certain constituency/community works.
“I hope in the future we should not have to literally beg the government to do these things, hence, that is why I believe local government is important where you have the government at the community level so these things will not be a problem”, Bramble advised.
The repair work began last Monday, September 15, 2025, with the roof of the pavilion stripped and the surface of the hard court dug up.
Continued on Page 27.
Fitzgerald Bramble, MP for the area, is happy that work has commenced at the Sion
Hardcourt but warns against any slipshod work.
Hill
The Sion Hill Hardcourt was last refurbished in 2021.