THE VINCENTIAN PDF-21-07-23

Kingstown had never before experienced such an open brandishing of automatic firearms as it did on Wednesday evening outside the NAPA, Uptown.

Reports are that the victims, all male, were involved in a game of cards when a white Suzuki

GUNNED DEAD in the early evening hours of Wednesday 19th July, 2023, in the area of the entrance to

the Cruise Ship Berth and Grenadines Wharf, just outside the NAPA building, Uptown, Kingstown.

Lamont ‘Dutchie’ Hector Dondré Hillocks

Ricky Taylor Jamal ‘Dutty’ Bobb

Kashie Primus

SVG is still a safe place

THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, Colin John, is assuring Vincentians that the country is still a safe place despite a wave of shootings deaths.

Following the shooting incident in the uptown area of Kingstown on Wednesday sometime around 8pm that left five people dead, the Commissioner said, “The public is reassured that despite the regrettable spate of violence that we are currently experiencing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, SVG is still a safe place. We have one week ago concluded a successful, enjoyable and generally adverse-incident-free Vincymas. Thousands of people enjoyed the carnival and had fun in a safe environment.”

He said that the serious crimes that are being committed are by and large committed by a very small group of people against others of the same ilk.

“We advised persons to settle their differences in a more mature, civilized and amicable manner. Also, we strongly advocate that persons respect the rights to life of each other,” John said in a statement.

“The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is embarking on new methods of policing while utilizing the tried and tested police practices. We coveted your continued cooperation and support in this venture to make all of us safe,” the commissioner said.

The members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force expressed condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased persons in Wednesday night shooting and other victims of homicides in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The police are also asking anyone with information that

can lead to the arrest and conviction of persons who have committed these crimes and other crimes to provide the police with such information. This information can be sent via telephone number 911, 999, 4571211 or 4561810 or any police officer who you are comfortable communicating with.

“Be assured that the information would be held to the strictest of confidence. Additionally, there are laws in place in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to give evidence without their identity being revealed. This can be done by virtue of The Witness Special Measure Act,” the Commissioners’ statement noted. (KH)

Colin John, Commissioner of Police, alluded to ‘new methods of policing’ as the RSVGPF moves to tackle the increasing incidence of violent crime in SVG.

Five left dead Carnage in Kingstown:

Continued from Frontpage.

Vitara pulled up where the game was unfolding.

Masked gunmen exited the jeep and fired multiple rounds from what residents in the area of ‘Quarry’ (Uptown Kingstown), described as semiautomatic guns. The vehicle then fled the scene leaving the men in a pool of blood, from head wounds.

Residents described the shooting as being sustained for at least a full minute.

According to a police release, at about 8:00pm on 19th July 2023, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force responded to a report of a mass shooting in the Harbour Club area of

Kingstown. “Investigations revealed that five (5) persons were fatally wounded. The police processed the scene and are carrying out further investigations into these shooting and other offences.” the release said.

And in a statement following the fatal shooting, the Commissioner of Police, Colin John, purported, “The serious crimes that are being committed are by and large committed by a very small group of people against others of the same ilk.”

He called upon the citizenry “..to settle their differences in a more mature, civilize and amicable manner. Also, we strongly advocate that person respect the rights to life of each other.

The victims

Ahead of confirmation by the police, THE VINCENTIAN can report that the dead are: Paul’s Avenue resident and businessman - Lamont ‘Dutchie’ Hector, Dondré Hillocks of Long Wall, Jamal ‘Dutty’ Bobb of Ottley Hall, Ricky Taylor of Long Wall and Kashie Primus, a 13-year-old also of Long wall.

Hector and Bobb have had their run-ins with the law. Hector has had to answer charges of money laundering and drug possession, and Bobb faced wounding and armed robbery charges.

Primus was the only one not to have died at the scene of the shooting. He succumbed to his injuries at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital the same night.

Reports are that other

persons were taken to the hospital including Kyle Phillips who, up to press time on Thursday, was warded at the Milton Cato memorial Hospital.

Other homicides

Meanwhile, the police were quick to debunk information circulating on Wednesday evening that other shooting incidents had occurred that evening. The police stated that they had investigated the reports and found them to be false.

“There was no shooting in Ottley Hall, Campden Park, Fairbane Pasture or any other part in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Wednesday night,” according to the police report.

What is fact is that the fatal multiple shooting deaths on

Wednesday evening, came one day after two men were killed in different shooting incidents.

Kemon Roberts, 28, of Golden Vale, was shot in Calliaqua and lay dead in the street outside the Anglican Church Centre. He was reportedly shot in his head around 8am while on his way to work.

Later in the day, in the early evening hours, Kingsley ‘Crime’ Shallow was gunned down in Montague, Mesopotamia. Shallow is said to be the son of talk show host and taxi driver, Kingsley Defreitas and nephew of Calypso icon, the late Gerrard ‘Rashum’ Shallow.

The five killings on Wednesday and those of Shallow and Roberts take the homicide count in the country this year to 35 (including 3 during police action). The country had a record count of 42 homicides in 2022.

Triangular love affair murder accused freed

Stories by: HAYDN HUGGINS

ABOUT19 years after truck driver Joshua ‘Cabbage’ Pompey was acquitted of a murder charge, a man who was subsequently charged with Pompey’s murder and other related offenses, was freed on all counts.

Hanif ‘Ghandi’ Forbes, 41year-old mason of Spring Village, Georgetown, was charged with murdering Pompey at O’Briens Village, Georgetown on January 22, 2022, discharging a loaded firearm with intent to injure, possession of a firearm without licenses, assaulting Pompey’s wife Lakeitha Harris-Pompey causing her bodily harm on January 21, 2022, and entering HarrisPompey’s home on the same date and stealing one bottle of Gonsalves Black Wine valued EC$30, one bottle of Pure Heaven non-alcoholic wine value EC$25, and one bottle of

Jamaican brandy valued EC$25.

Pompey’s body was found in his car next to his home at O’Brien Village in the early morning hours of January 22, 2022. He sustained a bullet wound to the head.

Forbes who had a sexual relationship with Pompey’s wife was subsequently arrested and charged.

However, Forbes walked free from the High Court on Tuesday after a 12-member Jury, comprised of eight women and four men, found him not guilty on all counts, following a trial which lasted about two weeks.

Speaking with THE VINENTIAN shortly after the acquittal, Forbes’ attorney Ronald Marks said, “Justice was served. It would have been frightening if the Jury had come back with a different verdict. This (verdict) has reassured my faith in the system. I walked an innocent

man out of prison today, and I am satisfied”.

The Crown’s case relied heavily on the evidence of Harris-Pompey, the only witness for the Crown to testify seeing the unfolding of the events leading to the shooting death of Joshua Pompey around 12:05 a.m. on January 22, 2022. But Marks in his closing submissions argued that Harris-Pompey fabricated the story. Marks referenced the evidence of surgical pathologist Ronald Child who said Pompey was shot from the left side, in contrast to the evidence of Harris-Pompey who told the Court that Forbes was standing to the right side of the vehicle in which Pompey was shot. Marks also argued that she said she saw Pompey with a long gun but according to Dr. Child’s evidence, the entry wound was only 1.2 cm, which Marks said was more consistent with a small caliber

gun. The lawyer added that no firearm or spent shells were recovered.

Marks also referred to the evidence of the accused who told the Court that Harris-Pompey had told him the father of her first child used to beat her, and she purchased a gun and told the child’s father that she would shoot him if he ever hit her again.

Forbes’ in his defense to the Court said, “We started out as friends and we became intimate. Some sex happened at the house and sometimes she would call me, and we would go to a house at Glen and have sex. I did not shoot ‘Cabbage’, and I did not beat her (Harris-Pompey) up”.

Murder victim’s wife admits: We both cheated

LAKEITHAHarris-Pompey, the wife of murder victim Joshua ‘Cabbage’ Pompey, was the only witness for the Crown to claim seeing the unfolding of the drama which led to the shooting death of her husband, around 12:05am on January 22, 2022.

Harris-Pompey told the Court, during the recent murder trial, that she had a sexual relationship with the accused Hanif ‘Ghandi’ Forbes who, on Tuesday, was acquitted of that murder and other related offenses.

She said she and Forbes were friends then they became lovers before she got married to JoshuaPompey in 2020, and her sexual relationship with Forbes continued even after she got married to Pompey.

She described her marriage as “on and off” because “her (husband) was seeing different people, and I was seeing Hanif Forbes.”

She said that she wanted to quit the marriage but she and her husband saw a counsellor, and he advised them to work things out. She said that she had told Forbes she was going to get married, and he told her she could do what she wanted. She said her relationship with Forbes ended around October 2021 because “he used to be acting up”.

Harris-Pompey spoke of an incident between the night of January 21, 2021 and the early morning of January 22, 2022, while her husband was not at home. The children were sleeping and she was watching movies. She recalled hearing something drop, and she got up to see what had happened.

“My white board fell. They were drinks on the table, and they were gone. It was a black wine, a Pure Heaven and a Jamaican Brandy. I saw Hanif putting the drinks through the burglar bars of

the window. I saw his head and shoulder. He pulled the curtain to take the drinks off the table. I say Hanif, why are you removing ‘Cabbage’ drinks. He just walked away”, Harris-Pompey testified.

“I went after him and met him in the yard. I tell him give me the drinks. He start to choke me. I start to fist him off, and I got away from him and ran back into the house. He threw me down in the couch and start choking me. I flip over the couch, and I try to run out the kitchen, but could not make it”, Harris-Pompey added.

According to her, “Ghandi (Forbes) grabbed me the same time and start to beat me in my face. I began to scream and my kids woke up. I say ‘Ghandi’ you going to beat me up in front of the kids them, and I ran out the front door. I was frighten. I locked the door. It was around 11pm (January 21, 2021).

“I went into my bedroom, and looked out the window. I saw him (Forbes) walking fast going down the road, then I took my phone and called ‘Cabbage’. I told him that ‘Ghandi’ came into the yard, and took his drinks, and gone with them”.

Harris-Pompey said her husband said OK, and hung up, but while she was peeping through the window awaiting her husband’s arrival, she saw Forbes coming up the road with a gun in his hand.

“It (gun) was long and black. As he got closer he put the gun on a wall, and jumped over the wall to come in my yard, then he go by the window to the garage. I came out of the bedroom. I called ‘Cabbage’ to tell him (Pompey) don’t come up here, because Forbes was in the yard with a gun”.

Harris-Pompey said Forbes told her, “I go kill you and ‘Cabbage’

Forbes, in response to questions from the Crown, said, “We were always having sex. She never told me she wanted to stop having sex with me because she was married. I did not kill ‘Cabbage’. I did not go in their house and remove drinks, and beat her up”, he insisted.

mudder –– today”. She said Forbes was pounding the gun in the house through a window for a short while.

At this point, her husband arrived and came out of his car. She did not see where Forbes went as she had gone back to her bedroom window. She later saw Forbes coming from the direction of Dickson, and he pointed the gun at her husband. She added that Forbes also fired a bullet on the ground.

According to the woman her husband, who was already inside the house, wanted to go back outside and she told him not to because Forbes had a gun. But her husband insisted that he was going back outside to park his vehicle. She said she heard a loud explosion and when she peeped through the window, she saw her husband’s car reversing slowly and then it stopped. She said Forbes was pointing the gun to her husband’s car. She screamed repeatedly, and saw Forbes run up in a gap and disappeared.

The police whom she had called earlier returned the call, and she told them it looked like something happened to her husband. When she went down to the car she saw what appeared to be blood on her husband’s face, and he was unresponsive. She said it was after 12 midnight.

Under cross-examination by Forbes’ lawyer Ronald Marks, Harris-Pompey said she ended the relationship with Forbes because she wanted to spend more time with her children. She said she always knew her husband was cheating on her, and the only person she could have taken her problems to was Forbes. She could not remember when was the last time she had sex with Forbes, but said it was long before December, 2021.

playing pool, then went home. He said he was at home playing games, and HarrisPompey kept messaging him. He said he never left the house again, and the following morning someone called him saying that Joshua Pompey was killed, and people were saying that he (Forbes) was the killer. Forbes called his mother Veronica John, and his son Duvani Williams, both of whom he lived with, to testify on his behalf.

Forbes said that on the evening of January 21, 2022, he was at a bar

On January 11, 2004, Pompey was freed of a murder charge, stemming from the shooting death of Wayde Durrant at Middle Street, Kingstown on June 11, 2003.

fisherman jailed for murder

LEROY CUFFYis on his fifth day of a 25-year-plus prison sentence for the murder of his cousin and fellow villager Mandreca Soloman, and other related offenses. The 32-year-olf fisherman of Barrouallie was on Monday sentenced to 25 years, nine months, and one day for murdering the 28-year-old Soloman, who died from a gunshot wound on April 15, 2021, following a rum shop argument at Barrouallie.

Cuffy was also sentenced to ten years, three months and one day for possession of a firearm with intent to commit an offense; one year, three months, and one day for possession of an unlicensed firearm; and one year three months, and one day for possession of nine rounds of ammunition without a license.

The sentences handed down by Justice Brian Cottle at the High Court Criminal Assizes will run concurrently.

Cuffy had pleaded guilty to the charges at a previous sitting but sentencing was adjourned.

The facts showed that Soloman, a labourer, was shot following an argument with Cuffy at a shop in Barrouallie, during which Cuffy had told Soloman to wash his hands before partaking in an alcoholic drink Soloman had intended to share with him. Solomon had insisted that Cuffy wash his hands because he (Cuffy) was seen playing with a stray puppy.

Cuffy, who apparently became annoyed, left and returned with a gun which he used to shoot Soloman, following an exchange of words between them.

Hanif Forbes and his lawyer Ronald Marks after Forbes’ acquittal.

Jazz Review

Though touted from day one as a cool-down affair, the carnival now over, and though reinforced by the vibrant Cleo in her cover of the Kitchener classic ‘‘The Carnival Is Over’’ truth to tell, the show accelerated soon after half time, slowly evolving and finally emerging as a mini carnival with Latin vibes; weather sweet by then, everyone put on their dancing feet. The jamming started and almost knew no end!

Wear comfortable shoes to a JTP show; you will dance! Be warned. I attended three and danced at all.

by MARALYN BALLANTYNE

THE THIRD JAZZ@SUNSET SHOW “AFTER DE CARNIVAL”pulled an appreciative diverse audience; music fanatics, JTP fans, Vincentians ‘who come home fuh mas an’ fun in de July sun’ and looking to cool down, the young, the restless, courting lovebirds, mothers grabbing ‘me’ time, couples, seniors. This artistically put-together show, organized by the manager of Jazz Tropical Project {JTP} Dexter Rose, is being praised as an absolute triumph. Rain just before the start of the show did not daunt anyone; it was accepted as a blessing, its magical impact being just what Vincy farmers pray for and deserve. The thought that visitors may have been possibly exhausted both financially and energywise, did not intimidate JTP.

Keyboard maestro Juan Carlos Cepeda, normally reticent, unexpectedly ignited by way of a solo performance that harmoniously connected all attendees, Vincentianslocals and returnees, Cubans (great fans of JTP), visitors from nearby hotels, off-duty staff. How music binds, how music heals! The joyful voice of Juan Carlos reverberated a mile away, redirecting minds away from troubles, societal ills, and unfortunate occurrences, providing sweet respite.

Then there was a most pleasing tribute to Alston Cyrus, Becket aka ABC, in the form of Ragga Soca performed by the youthful Bongo Prime. Too few of our music icons are honored here in our island; that must change.

JTP springs surprises and this time it was a guitar man.....and there he was .....this young boy, strumming my fate with his fingers...he must have found my letters but did not read them out loud.....Mr. Krys Mark......well he is not only good looking, extremely handsome, the guy has style and skill....his fingers flew across that fretboard while his mellow voice enchanted young and old alike..the ovation said ‘Bring him again!’ JTP, you are exemplary. Hope others get the message!

The JAZZ@ SUNSET concept as conceived by manager Dexter Rose, is solid; it ought to be widely supported. JTP extends beyond excellence in music, skill of musicians, acoustics, repertoire crafting, stage décor; it ventures into the natural environment, preserving the wonders of nature, entertainment, psychology, developing the minds of attendees, community enrichment, social solidarity, cultural development, corporate responsibility, employment enhancement, quality of life, and much more. Kudos to ECGC for sticking by this project this time showcasing their newest product ZESS Cola.

With Basil at Villa as the venue, the general atmosphere is always relaxed, civilized, and safe. That counts, plus jazz lover, and venue owner Basil Charles, himself attends! The casually elegant dressing that has become the norm is not written in stone. For heaven’s sake, come in whatever, not a birthday suit, though!

Talking about attire, our Vincy songbird, Azariah Gibson cut a delightful picture in a very tropical

outfit reflecting surrounding foliage, sea, and skies.

Topping her appearance is her art of effortlessly drawing in the entire audience by her charismatic onstage and off-stage presence.

Outdoing all of that is the romantic aura Azariah radiates with her soft and tender songs. “You make me feel like a natural woman” and ‘‘Turn your lights down low’’ sent forth emotional effects, soulful vibes, capable of impacting even the most callous man……

But the star of the show for me, was the beautiful Cleo from Layou, Lady in White. My choice is not based on the fact that a man with strong Layou roots adored me and made me his wife. It was her confidence, her panache, her passion for singing, and her allure that touched me. She calmly strutted onto that little stage and owned “CRAZY”, a beloved Willie Nelson ditty from during my courting days, immediately taking your full attention.

A JTP show is a truly uplifting experience. The passion of the songs motivates attendees to fall into their rhythm.

JTP musicians excel at complex harmony, romantic melody, bass and sax alternating in rhythm, syncopated rhythms, improvisation, changing dynamism; the music gets under your skin, you fall in love and then you are clueless as to how far you may take the new love affair!

Attend and witness for yourself.

Azariah Gibson, turned it down but definitely not out with her gentle and enticing treatment of some standards. (Facebook Photo)

Cleo Hendrickson moved effortlessly from Kitchener (Calypso) to Willie Nelson (Country). (File Photo)

Krystian ‘Krys’ Mark, combining a voice so calm and dexterity as a guitar player, had the gathering wanting more of him and his music. (Facebook Photo)

Juan Carlos Cepeda used his mastery of the keyboard to bring the mixed gathering to sense of oneness oblivious to the challenging world around them. (Facebook Photo)

Dexter Rose – the man behind Jazz Tropical Project which ensures jazz and good music generally remain on the Vincentian landscape. (File photo)

„We have certain leads,‰ PM Gonsalves

PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF NATIONAL SECURITY

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has revealed that the security authorities in the country have certain leads in the shooting incident that left 5 men dead under NAPA building, Uptown, Kingstown.

On Wednesday, masked gunmen exited a jeep and opened fire on a number of persons under the NAPA building. Five males were killed including a minor, while a number of persons who sustained gunshot injuries were rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Gonsalves speaking in a live video from Morocco on Thursday, July 20, said that “We have certain leads, I’ve been advised by the police, and over the next few days we will be able to get a better handle as to who and what are responsible for these killings.

“I want you to know that the government is resolved to get to the bottom of this and to continue to put the safety of our people at the top of our agenda,” the Prime Minister said. Dr. Gonsalves appealed for calm and urged the populace not to panic.

Five dead: Dr. Friday calls for action

by SHERON GARRAWAY

SPEAKING LIVEfrom the studio of Hot 97.1 SVG on Thursday morning, Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday said he passes the area where five persons were shot on Wednesday as he travels to the Grenadine island of Bequia and he, in fact, passed there after 6pm before the after 7pm rampage.

He echoed his condolences and described the incident as shocking as he expressed concern that the nation was getting too comfortable and used to persons being shot and killed.

Five persons gunned down in a single incident with what can be perceived as “submachine guns” was “simply unacceptable,” Dr. Friday stressed.

He described the violent acts as “unprecedented” and criticised the government for having what he believed was a “tepid response” as though it were just “a passing thing.”

Dr. Friday said the state was

“We have to be resolute and tight on the criminals,” he said Gonsalves, who promised to be tough on crime and the causes of crime.

“There are ramped up measures which have been taken as I speak to you. And for tactical and operational reasons, I can’t say what all those measures are but I want to appeal to the people of St. Vincent and Grenadines, people in the communities, to assist the police with any information you may have,” the Prime Minister added.

He assured that the police and Customs and Immigration officials were on high alert.

“This fascination with guns coming from the United States of America and the ease with which they come in and then it is mixed with drugs and other matters of vanity and all kinds of quest for power through the gun. All of these things are an intoxicating mix. We have to look to see whether there are external involvements of one kind or another. But we’ll talk more about those things. We try to get to the

bottom of it and be calm. Don’t panic. We are all together in this. We have our values for peace and security,” said Gonsalves in his address to the nation.

He said that these acts of senseless killing and the young males who are involved in these matters must know that it can only end with grief for them.

“I repeat, we have to work together on this, the communities and the police authorities, the law enforcement agencies,” he posited.

“I want to extend condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Lives lost, it doesn’t matter which lives, and the loss of any life diminishes all human beings in the community. I reiterate, however, that we will get to the bottom of this and we will bring the perpetrators to justice. Those who carried out the killings and those who are the authors, even though they didn’t pull the trigger themselves,” Gonsalves promised. (KH)

getting worse every day and the warnings and calls for action were not being heeded.

He lashed out that the Prime Minister who is also Minister of National Security seemed to be “fitting it into his busy schedule” while people were retreating into their homes and were afraid to go to public places.

He lamented that it was not just the fact that people were being killed, but “the way it was being done as the crimes seem to happen anywhere.”

It is getting to a point, Dr. Friday assessed, when the people of the country have lost faith in the institutions that should protect them.

The principal objective of government was the security of people in the nation, he said, and if this doesn’t occur, “there can’t be

investment, enjoyment, peace of mind and things associated with a civilized society.”

With 35 homicides as of 20 July 2023, the Opposition Leader declared, “The government has failed,” and questioned if PM Gonsalves has been in the country for more than a month in a row and said that the PM is away and the Deputy PM Montgomery Daniel is acting, the country is on auto pilot.

This was a crisis that should not be trivialized as just a fascination with guns or vanity, Dr. Friday warned.

The time was perhaps appropriate when it was necessary to make National Security a separate ministry

for someone who has been tasked directly to deal with the security situation in the country.

He charged that “the Commissioner of Police has proven himself to be incapable of dealing with the situation” and there needs to be regional cooperation on dealing with the problem.

The offer of his party to collaborate with the government to tackle crime remains on the table, Dr. Friday reminded and advanced the position that “The crime situation was a terrible scourge that needed a national, non-partisan and unified approach, where it wasn’t about scoring political points.”

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister and National Security Minister, moved to assure the population that the relevant authorities were on top of the recent carnage in Kingstown, and appealed for calm.

Dr. Godwin Friday took to Thursday’s edition of the ‘Am Mayhem’ programme on HOT 97.1 FM to vent his feeling about the crime situation in SVG. (Photo Source: Hot 97.1, FM Facebook)

Sayers: Be the best you can

MICHAEL SAYERS, President of the General Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU), is advising young students to “be the best you can be at every stage of your life.”

His call came last week Thursday, July 13, at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, during GECCU’s scholarship awards ceremony.

Of the group who will begin their secondary education in September. Fifteen of those will have some ease on their journey compliments scholarships from GECCU.

They include: Kajj Murray, second overall and for Boys in the recent Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA); Brescott Glynn, a former Kingstown Preparatory School student who placed ninth for Boys and 11th overall.

Also included are: Joleah John from the Dickson Methodist Schoolthird for Girls and 11th overall; Evronn Cadougan, Kingstown Preparatory School - tenth for Boys

and 13th overall; Osei Abbott, Georgetown Government School - 11th for Boys and 14th overall.

Also making the list were: J-ylay Lewis, Windsor Primary Schoolfourth for Girls and 16th overall; Alexia Laborde, St Mary’s Roman Catholic - seventh for Girls and 19th overall; Joshua Delpesche, Kingstown Preparatory - 13th on the Boys’ and 19th overall.

Dickson Methodist School’s Delvin Connell 16th for Boys, and 27th overall shared that position with Amariah May, St. Mary’s Roman Catholic who was 12th for girls. They both received scholarships, along with: Meshauna Butler, Union Methodist Primary - 12th for Girls, as well as Saorise Cupid, Sugar Mill Academy, 18th, and Ayah Defreitas, St. Mary’s Roman Catholic, who shared the 18th position for Girls.

The Grenadines were not left out, Kevin Lavia from Bequia Anglican Primary earned his award for being

Work ethics will surpass talent: Sheen

THEGeneral Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU) has a way of keeping its family together.

When it held its 21st Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony, Thursday, July 13, the now fixed feature, A Motivational Speech, was delivered by Sunil Sheen a GECCU scholar of 1992.

Sheen is putting his GECCU foundation to good use, and when called upon, he was keen on imparting the benefit of his experience to those in the position he sat in previously.

Sheen is a lecturer, facilitator who has a range of regional and international experience.

Sheen outlined to the students the importance of having a winning mentality. He alluded to the lion which he concedes is an example of having to hunt to survive. For Sheen “mentality will always trump talent.”

He added: “work ethics will always surpass talent.”

Sheen urges youngster to have the “courage to dream.” And he wants them to “do it as if your life depended on it.”

He advises, however, that “dreams without goals lead to disappointment.” For that reason, goals must be achievable and must be approached step by step.

That includes hard work and Sheen

assures that “with hard work it materializes.”

He accepts that the road along life’s path is not going to be easy, but he wants students to “enjoy the problem of getting up and trying.”

He knows that there will be failures, but let those not daunt you, Sheen suggests.

“If you fail ten times, get up. The 11th (trial) could be the success,” the former GECCU scholar stated. He invites students to “soar.”

Sheen adopts some spiritual approaches and assures that once one treads the high road to upward mobility, “someone out there will give you strength.”

Sheen reminded his audience to “have faith,” and “trust in the Lord.”

29th for Boys and 57th overall, and Xavier Charles, Canouan Government School, was also a scholarship recipient.

Sayers reminded the recipients that it took a lot of hard work to reach that stage. He insisted that nothing stays the same, and reminded the listeners that “your best is not fixed.

The more you work at something, the better you become.”

He admitted that sending a child to school “is not cheap.” He noted that the GECCU assistance “is not going to solve everything,” but that it is a “help.”

Geccu’s CEO Maxine Johnney reflected on the GECCU’s thrust to assist student which began in 1981.

This year’s scholarship package increased from 12 to 15. Some $30,000 has been allocated to cater for 176

students who received a $175 voucher. She urged the bursary recipients not to be “discouraged,” and alerted them to other avenues of support that GECCU can provide as they progress on their academic journey. Stories by: (WKA)

Michael Sayers, President of the General Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU), reminded the scholarship recipients that the more they work at something, the better they become.

Sunil Sheen encouraged his fellow GECCU scholarship recipients to develop a winning mindset.

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.

Abuse of power

ONCE AGAIN,the extent to which the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government will extend its reach to have its own way has been brought into focus.

The matter of a declared ULP candidate for the next general elections (2025) continuing to serve in a sensitive civil service position of Hospital Administrator aside, the latest example of the ULP having no regard for protocol, precedence or what is simply the descent thing to do, has to do with the position of Clerk of the House.

We understand that the Clerk of the House is the advisor to the Speaker of the House, not least on matters as they relate to interpreting the Rules of the House.

The office is also expected to ensure that new members are properly oriented to the protocols of the House.

In a broad sense, the Clerk is effectively the Secretary to the House, responsible for, among other things, keeping the Minutes, preparing the agenda (Order Paper), dispatching all notice and documents (7 days in advance).

Tradition has it that the Clerk of the House is proven to be above repute; of strong character to include being trustworthy; proven to be impartial and cordial in his/her relations with not only members of the House but the general public.

That is why, even before independence and moreso since independence, the Clerk of the House has been a tried and tested civil servant, dedicated to upholding the values of public service.

Among those persons who have served without malice and with fair play has been Mr. Clement Noel (1975 — 1988), Mrs. Theresa Jack-Adams (1989 — 2002) and Ms. Nicole Herbert (2004 to 2023).

Now, with the power vested in it, or so they would want to say, the ULP has moved to have one of its own, Deborah Charles, fill that office. Not just a lowly member of its party but a former Government Senator, a twice-times losing candidate for the party and still a

leading member of the party.

One could hardly get more attached than that and it creates a sense of hesitation to accept the appointee as trustworthy in the sense of her being able to separate the lemons from the oranges; what serves or is in the interest of the general good and what advances or gives advantage to her party.

Now, this is not an attack on the former lady senator nor is it a question about her ability.

Rather, it is an issue that places her or what we know her to be in a position that has been the purview of persons without any political allegiance.

What her appointment boils down to is an abuse of power by the ruling regime, i.e. ‘the misuse of a position of power to take unjust advantage of individuals, organizations, or governments’.

Abuse of power is often predicated on a need to control, a desire to dominate. It can also be driven by a fear of losing control. What is the ULP fearful of losing?

The question must be: what does the ULP hope to control by this partisan act? Does it want to have a presence in the highest lawmaking body of the land that speaks to it further having its own way, over and above its majority in the House?

Surely this abuse of power can’t be about manipulation, coercion or intimidation?

Yes, we just might have allowed a sense of entitlement to give ‘the freedom’ to abuse one’s power.

A government that feels it is entitled because of a majority in the House of Assembly will be prone to bestowing privileges on itself in the face of precedence that says otherwise, and traditions that have withstood the test of time.

And lest we forget or don’t realise it, abuse of power is a damaging phenomenon that can have serious consequences for society and the order of society. Laws and rules and precedence are wont to be disregarded, setting the scene for a possible tsunami of abuses.

I AM GOING TO WRITE about the Carnival. Ok, just a little.

Like so many people my age, I am reasonably disconnected from the nightclub, bars, and music scene. Deafening music I find somewhat annoying. Therefore, I am just asking what the difference is between Soca and Ragga Soca. Isn’t Ragga Soca just a natural evolution, uniquely Vincentian, out of Soca? My nephew tried to explain it to me a few years ago, but I still did not get it. I am sure someone will try again someday, and I promise to keep an open mind. I am asking this question because of questions about the prize money issue expressed by some performers, and the CDC’s decision to split these shows this year was confusing at best. Don’t try the length of the show argument as the reason for the split. They could have fixed that relatively easily, just starting the show on time.

I must say, I was disappointed when “early” in the season a seasoned calypsonian chose to regurgitate some old unproven allegations. I had to ask myself why some calypsonians keep spending their limited time in the spotlight, repeating social issues already tried in the schools of public opinion. Allow me to say, I fully support the decision of the tent managers… way to take a stand, Ipa.

Like every other year, I had a few different guys in the final lineup, but the Calypso finals did not disappoint. Congratulations.

Oh no, I will not get into the Mas Band feather and swimsuit conversation other than to say things are changing, and we have the power to guide the change.

This year’s most significant lesson was the reminder that no person is more powerful or important than our Carnival. We have room for improvement, and I encourage those in leadership positions not to take this year’s success as an indication that all is well.

So much for me not having anything to say about Carnival. By the way, could someone explain why so many Steel

Orchestras are still playing songs from Winston Soso at Panorama? Could it be that our calypsonians no longer write songs with this third element of Carnival in mind?

I really wanted to talk about the war between Russia and Ukraine this week and how it is baffling and concerning me. Dare I say it should also be of some concern to the Prime Minister and the ULP, maybe for different reasons. With the war extended now beyond 500 days and no clear end in sight, and some signs of divisions among the Russian fighting forces, we can expect the unexpected. Last week the US president unilaterally declared the war was over, and Russia lost. This was while he was sending cluster bonds to the Ukrainians, and the United Nations was beginning to renegotiate the sensitive and fragile arrangement to allow grain and other food items to be exported out of Ukraine.

Why is this important? With elections on the horizon (2024) in the USA and SVG in 2025, another dramatic rise in basic food prices over the next year could spell disaster for anyone in office seeking reelection. So, President Biden and PM Gonsalves, now is the time to get your house in order. We must guard against hyperinflation in the coming months; if the UN cannot complete an extension of the current agreement to allow these food items to continue to reach the market. Not only will food prices increase, but incumbent governments will have difficulty in upcoming elections.

I am, however, more genuinely concerned that the Minister of Agriculture’s bold statement about decreasing our food import bill by 25% is still only a pipe dream. I have not seen or heard anything that gives me confidence that this goal is attainable. The fact that we are producing more dasheen for export and exporting some fish do not translate into us eating more callaloo soup or fried fish and breadfruit. Thus, reducing our food import bill is becoming more unreachable. Horatio.

Some things are beyond reasonable expectations

One Caribbean Currency

MANY, many years ago, it was reported that, at a meeting of the heads of CARICOM, it was decided that the CARICOM region should have a single currency. At that meeting also, the Prime Minister of Barbados (now deceased) was elected to head a committee to arrive at a single currency. So many years after and yet, still no single currency.

CARICOM has expanded to include countries of different languages and the heads of Government have been meeting ever so often, recently to deal with crimes committed by the poor, yet still no discussion of a single currency.

Recently, there have

Lift the sanctions

VENEZUELAis the only country that gives small countries in the region, such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, reduced prices for oil. This saves us millions and eases the strain on our small economy.

The thing is, too, as I understand it, Venezuela has donated millions of gallons of heating oil to poor Americans who otherwise could not heat their homes during the winter. Can you get more humane than that?

That is why I am calling on the USA to lift the sanctions against Venezuela.

I mean, Mr. Editor, what has Venezuela ever done to the mighty USA? During the time Trump was president, President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro made attempts to reach out to him, to no avail. And it has not been any better with Biden.

So, the USA wants free and fair elections in Venezuela. Instead of supporting one side, America should see to it that a ‘free’ election is held and whatever the result, accept it.

In the meantime, lift the sanctions against Venezuela.

Elliot, S. Kingstown.

been discussions between three Member States, on the production of agricultural commodities, with the aim of a reduction of imports from extra-regions. Unfortunately, no mention was made of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Is it that St. Vincent and the Grenadines had stated some time ago that “agriculture is a thing of the past?” Hopefully, better judgement will prevail and facilities will be put in place for St. Vincent and the

Grenadines to regain its place as an agricultural country. Free fertilizer is insufficient to get farmers on the go.

Roads, roads and more roads is what is required.

Of course, a single CARICOM currency will also help. The special arrangement with exporters and banks is child-like. The matter of a single currency must be broached openly. Those Member States that wish to use their money as political tools must be exposed. Of course, a single currency

means many professionals will have to gravitate to some area of production, preferably.

Because agriculture is the main area in which CARICOM members can closer associate, the technocrats in the various ministries of agriculture will have to become more professional. Trade within CARICOM should become as hassle-free as trade within St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or between Tobago and Trinidad.

Of course, pests and

Turning us away from what we are

THE BRITISHused the churches to destroy our language and to teach our people their English Language and banished our revolutionaries (who revolted against them) on Balliceaux rock. They then taught our youth to hate themselves and what is theirs. As soon as the young people are old enough to have an understanding of themselves, they were placed into a system of education to be trained to serve the British system.

A similar system today and its (so called) education revolution require our children to focus only on the information provided to them and repeatedly test them on this information until it becomes their (false) truth. No education on their cultural history. Brain damage. Mind control is their way to dominate the most intelligent. Divide and rule. They make money the main focus and make it so difficult to accumulate which places people in a constant struggle to survive. The youth embark on crime to get money. Parents stressed to get money to pay utility bills, etc. The system taxes us in every possible way. Misused our NIS $s and asked the working class to pay more and receive less. Good

way of telling us that 7 is higher than 9, kom-red.

Not only that, the Ministry of Agriculture has destroyed our unique ecological farming system and forced us to be feeding on imported, slow poisoning, artificially processed food with excess sugar and addictive chemicals. All of this makes us ill forcing us to go to the doctor, to be treated with medication for life… medication that only masks the symptoms. We pay for healthcare for life.

This is where the (so-called) education revolution brought us: to hate what is natural. We are made with a marvelous complex body sustained by the natural ecological systems but our educational system provides us with idols and a sense of artificial beauty that leads us to dress in the clothes of the unnatural. This unnatural is not an accident.

For many years the Garifuna movement has been writing to this government to have our language taught in our schools. We shall create the natural education revolution after the next general elections.

Democrat

Bethel Gospel Assembly Owia

GREETINGSin the name of our Lord and Saviour.

After the La Soufriere Volcano eruption in 2021, our Bethel Gospel Assembly Owia Church building in the Red Zone was completely destroyed. We are now in the process of rebuilding the Church building.

The total cost of materials, plumbing installations, electrical installations, and external works is $145,000 XCD. Donations can be made at — Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Account name: Bethel Gospel Assembly, Account number: 1107703. We are seeking voluntary workers:

contractors, masons, manual labourers, plumbers, and electricians.

Come up to Owia and help us. Ref. Acts 16:9

Special thanks to Mr. Imran Williams of the Ministry of Planning, and Arthur L. Guy of Construction & Property Development Services Limited.

For further information contact: Bishop Charles, 784 526 5924 or Pastor Roberts, 784-532-2745. Thanks in advance for your donation and help.

Bishop Charles

diseases should be dealt with as professionally as possible. This can only be achieved if there are competent agriculturalists in the various Ministries of Agriculture.

CARICOM need to be more forward as an international entity.

Hugh Stewart

Not my cup of tea

I BROKE a promise I made last year and made my way to Victoria Park for the parade of bands for Vincy Mas 2023. I had decided after viewing last year’s ‘spectacle’ that I had had enough of a most unbecoming display by our womenfolk.

I said it before and I will say it again: It is that, to display the work of our mas designers and costume makers we must have our women almost naked, then to label it a display of our culture, our premiere cultural festival, is nothing short of ridiculous.

Once again all I got at the Park was a bunch of our women seemingly in a contest to see who could wine better. Mind you what I saw was amazing, ... our womenfolk are experts at contorting their bodies, and in the process enticing our menfolk.

What I saw for Carnival Tuesday was nothing short of sexual simulation, women disrespecting themselves and their womanhood, and a lie that what we display represents our culture. Then again, maybe this is what we mean when we proclaim Vincymas to be the ‘Hottest Carnival in the Caribbean’.

I’m sorry if I sound like a Christian fundamentalist, but as one who was once involved in being part of producing some of the finest works of art for our carnival, it hurts me to say it but I must: This modern day Vincymas is not my cup of tea.

Thomas

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* If the PM can bring a special pension bill to Parliament to take care of the remaining retired non-pensionable teachers?

* Why does this government have so many special advisors? What is the salary of each advisor?

* When will the Minister of Agriculture get a break from that Ministry?

* How come a local radio station wants the CDC to go because the members are too old and serving for too long, but says nothing about the government that has been serving longer and has older members?

* How come we are hearing so much about what we need to do to ‘SAVE’ the NIS but nothing about how it got into a mess in the first place?

* Have the former LIAT employees been paid their severance? What has become of the ULP slogan: ‘We are a workers’ party’?

* And why have we not heard anything from the court-appointed Administrator for LIAT who was appointed way back in 2020?

Christian

The ULP government has mismanaged the NIS

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY (ULP) administration must take the blame and responsibility for the current state of the National Insurance Services (NIS).

At the recent sitting of parliament, the Minister of Finance made a Ministerial Statement based on the eleventh actuarial study of the NIS. He listed a number of recommendations from the actuarial study. These include, increase contributions progressively from 10% to 15% over the next ten years, increase pensionable age to 67 years by 2032 and reduce the pensionable rate from 60% to 55%. The NIS reserves are projected to be depleted by 2034.

On his weekly radio program, president of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Leader of the Opposition, Dr. the Honourable Godwin Friday, made the following comments on the NIS. He said, “The National Insurance Services (NIS) is critical to our social security, our social safety net for the people of our country. We take this matter extremely serious, so we do not speak publicly or even privately in any cavalier way about it.

Mr. Eustace taught us extremely well on that matter. He, more than anybody in this country, understands the

importance of the NIS. I am speaking now about his work in the parliament. He taught us during the time that we were there and in his work as the Chairman of the NIS in the early years the importance of ensuring the integrity of this social safety net. I thank you, Mr. Eustace, for drilling that into us and to make me appreciate better what is necessary from a government that is responsible to have the integrity of the NIS upheld, because it is there to protect the retirement standard of living of the people who have invested all through their working lives in this important social safety net. There is no doubt about it. The NIS must continue. The NIS is critical for maintaining the social safety net for our people in retirement. The Executive Director at one time had said that about 80 or 85 percent of the persons who receive a pension from the NIS that it is their only income after retirement. So, you could see the significance of it. The concerns that have been raised are ones that we take seriously. I have heard the comments that were made publicly and we have been discussing this for quite some time. We have had advice from a number of persons but we did so in a vacuum, in the

sense that we did not have the actuarial study. Now that we have it; we have to go through it, and we await the report from the World Bank or review of that study and then we will be better informed as to how we proceed.

There are two essential things that must be taken on board. Foremost is that the NIS is critical and must be protected because this is important for most people’s livelihoods for their standard of living after retirement. Secondly, this problem has arisen under this ULP administration. They have had twenty-two years in office. They brag about the longevity of their time in office, being long in doing something is not what is important, what matters is how you use the time when you were there. They have had twenty-two years to correct whatever they see as the problems arising and they have not done so. Now you have a situation, under their watch, they have made the NIS vulnerable and people’s pensions are at risk unless drastic measures are taken.

In their 2020 manifesto, this is what the ULP said on page 63, “They would conduct and publish before the end of 2020 the eleventh actuarial evaluation of the NIS.” That is

what we got in the parliament on Thursday. It continues, “out of this will likely come increases in pensions and other benefits and recommendations on the way forward.” In their election manifesto of 2020, they were saying after the eleventh actuarial evaluation of the NIS that there will likely be increases in pensions and other benefits.

In the parliament on Thursday, the Minister was wringing hands about all kinds of things that they will have to do; none of them was about the increase in benefits and increasing pensions. They are proposing to raise as one option the contribution rate to 15%. They are proposing as one option to raise the pension age to 67 years. What do you do in the period between retirement and age 67? Then, you have also the possibility of reducing benefits for persons who have invested in NIS. So, these options do not square in anyway with what they were promising just two and a half years ago, in order to be reelected. They said from the study will likely come increase in pensions and other benefits. That is what they said in 2020. So, what happens to all

of the warnings you were given or the cautions from the IMF?

This is the first actuarial review we have seen from this government. All of those concerns that were raised fifteen years ago, they have done nothing to address them and they boast about how many more persons are on the NIS, how much they have increased the payouts and how the other programs have benefitted from short term or long-term contributions and the non-contributory pensions. What they did not say, is that the NIS under their watch, that the foundation upon which it was built was crumbling and everybody’s pension would then be placed in jeopardy; unless as they say, draconian measures are taken. You have to put the blame squarely on the maladministration, the mismanagement of the finances of this country and the financial institutions upon which the citizens depend, the NIS being one of them. This is something that they should have dealt with much sooner.”

The unnoticed presentations for J’Ouvert 2023

THE EDITOR, Again, I have cause for concern for the way in which Green Hill SCC presentations for J’Ouvert are often overlooked, by judges, some of whom are

blinded by personalities, dramatization and verbosity on placards, during the J’Ouvert presentations on stage.

Let me say here that it was good to have the few J’Ouvert bands show

up to try and revive the ole “traditional” mas during the carnival celebrations. Let me also state that this has not been the first time that Green Hill SCC has had cause for concern after

the presentation of the bands on stage and the judging results which follow.

For 2023 Green Hill SCC was only able to present one couple and four individuals. These

were paid for to be judged, unlike many of the presentations which came out as winners in categories which were not paid for.

I wish, dear Editor, to

have you present our J’Ouvert presentations for 2023 to the public.

On the other side of adversity

“When things do not go your way, remember that every challenge — every adversity — contains within it the seeds of opportunity and growth.” Roy T. Bennett (1929-2014) – American attorney and political executive.

TRAGEDIES HAVE A WAYof forcing us to rethink our priorities. Losing a loved one through death or abandonment can be quite traumatic. Loss of property or employment can also be quite devastating. Sometimes life’s adversities visit on a personal level, as is the case when an accident, disease, or the aging process could result in our losing mobility and/or some bodily functions. It is therefore quite understandable that such situations may usher in some feelings of self-pity, melancholy, and/or depression. However, that need not be the case. As traumatic and debilitating that such situations may be, adversities can usher in new hope and a renewed appreciation for what we still have left. Sometimes we lose sight of such realities as we are going through the crisis or immediately thereafter. On such occasions, a refocusing may be most valuable. There could be blessings and growth on the other side of adversity.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (1926-2004), a Swiss-American psychiatrist, reminds us that, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.”

Based on her comments in this regard, we can view struggle, disappointments, and adversities as conduits to personal growth and development. We may not see or appreciate the value of struggle when we are in the midst of the adversity. However, with time, we may grow to appreciate the development prospects that the crisis created. As we reflect of the battles that we have encountered we may very well conclude and appreciate that tough situations build strong people in the end.

We can share numerous local, regional, and international examples to reinforce the truth of what has been shared in the preceding paragraphs. Many of this column’s readers, on reflecting on the thoughts shared, can testify of the personal and communal growth that occurred following life’s varied setbacks. The life and legacy of individuals like Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014) inspire us to extract the valuable life lessons that emerge during or following a trauma. She was raped as a young child and was so traumatised that she refused to speak for a number of years. She found solace in the books that she read during those post-rape years. Those books helped her to refocus and, among other things, ignited her love for literature and the arts. Her writings subsequently inspired many. This included the now-famous Oprah Winfrey (born 1954) the American talk show host, television producer, actress, and philanthropist, who was also traumatised during her childhood and found comfort in reading Dr. Maya Angelou’s writings. Maya reminds us that, “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from,

how you can still come out of it.” There is life and hope, and victory, on the other side of adversity.

Arthur Golden (born 1956) the American writer, advocates that, “Adversity is like a strong wind. I don’t mean just that it holds us back from places we might otherwise go. It also tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that afterward we see ourselves as we really are, and not merely as we might like to be.” There are so many survivors of various forms of adversity who can testify of the emotional nakedness and vulnerability that misfortune would have created in their lives. In some instances, the adversity resulted in an exodus of some family members and associates - leaving behind a remnant of friends. However, the adversity would have magnified the true friends who remained following business failures, sickness, divorce, abandonment, loss of employment, and a host of other tragic experiences. Such experiences are considered priceless, as they tend to blow away the “chaffs of friendships”. Such “friends of convenience” or “dry weather friends” vanish when there seems to be a scarcity or when conditions appear challenging, uncomfortable, or difficult. In addition, such adversities enable us to better appreciate the often-latent inner strengths that we possess; the ability to cope and rebound even after the most traumatic of experiences. We are often more resilient and resolute than we think.

Many of this column’s readers would be familiar with many of the inspirational poems and hymns that were penned by Helen Keller (18801968), American author and disability rights advocate. Helen lost her vision and ability to hear when she was 19 months old. It was speculated that these losses would have resulted from her having contracted meningitis and scarlet fever. Many still consider it a mystery that, having lost these two critical senses (i.e., sight and hearing), she was still able to learn language. When she was six years old, her parents sought the advice of an eye, ear, nose, and throat specialist Dr. John Julian Chisolm (1830-1903) and the famous Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922) who worked with blind children at that time. One year later, when Helen was seven years old, Anne Sullivan, a graduate of the Perkins Institute for the Blind, accepted the challenge to teach this youngster who was understandably beginning to show signs of emotional instability. Through very skillful teaching methods, Anne patiently taught Helen how to write and spell. Helen became the first deaf-blind person to acquire a Bachelor of Arts degree and was inducted into the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame in 1971. Her outstanding accomplishments remind us that it is possible to overcome great adversity in pursuit of a noble dream. There are great opportunities on the other side of adversity.

The killing fields in the Caribbean

THE DEATH OF FIVE MENon Wednesday evening represents a new escalation in homicides in SVG. Six men were gunned down in the past week, bringing the total to a mind-blowing yet sobering 34. The country seems destined to gallop past 42, the official number of homicides recorded last year.

Our country, with a population of just over 100,000, is rapidly becoming the killing field of the Caribbean. This week was special, not only because of the number (6) of young men who lost their lives violently but also because of the type of weapon used and the number of shots fired. Those guilty of these most recent shootings evidently wanted someone dead. They were prepared to take down those close by to accomplish the task.

This is a dangerous development, especially in a country notorious for young and mature people gathering in clusters to ‘shoot the breeze’ and enjoy themselves. It now means that these kinds of get-togethers are very unsafe because one never knows who among their numbers is marked for execution.

An additional point of concern is the brazenness of those responsible. These killings occurred less than 500 hundred yards from the central police station in Kingstown, which houses that major crime unit.

Even though most of these killings appear targeted rather than random, the fear index is rising rapidly. People are increasingly expressing bewilderment and concern for the safety of their loved ones. Would drive-by mass shootings become a new feature of violent crime?

An even more significant problem is that the authorities do not seem to have a clue as to stem or stop the escalating violence. Apart from the announcements that the Minister of National Security met with the police top brass, no workable strategy has yet been devised to instill confidence in the population. We are stuck with the empty rhetoric of being tough on crime and the causes of crime.

The causes of crime: high unemployment and poverty levels, diminishing values of community, care and concern for others, increasing hopelessness and helplessness among young people, the get-rich-quick mentality of a significant section of our population, the selective prosecution of crime best reflected in the Sandy Bay woman tried summarily and given a slap on the wrist for possession of 60 kilos of cocaine all combine to stoke the crisis of confidence which is pervasive across the land.

Compounding this problematic situation is that the authorities’ tough-on-crime policy has resulted in alienation and, in some cases, deep hatred of the police. The arrogance and brutality of the police have resulted in it losing its most reliable ally in crime fighting.

Add to this the sad fact that few, if any, of these homicides result in arrest, trial, and conviction. Earlier this year, Commissioner Colin John disclosed that of the 42 homicides officially recorded last year, there were only ten arrests. How many of these lead to a charge and conviction remains a state secret. It stands to reason that with such a slow detection rate, there may well be several serial killers on the loose. The disclosure at

a recent trial that a convicted man asking fee was EC$1,500 per murder explains the very low value that some in our society place on life. The time has long passed for this government to do something tangible about our crime problem. Over 350 young men have been killed in the last ten years due to gun violence. The response of the authorities has been dreadful. High-priced women, worthless young men, violent lyrics, and criminal defence have been identified as triggers for our rising crime. As we saw at the crime summit in Trinidad a few weeks ago, none of the leaders was willing to look into the mirror and take even partial blame. Are they not partially responsible for the social dislocation that drives much of the crime and violence in our land? Their ineptitude is so manifest that the time for action has long passed.

Why is it that in Spice Isle Grenada, located less than 100 miles south of us, the homicide count is so low? Have our security forces tapped into the minds of our Grenadian neighbours to understand why they have maintained control over their crime situation? One thing is certain: Grenada’s violent crime rate cannot be chalked up to pure luck.

Now is not the time for business as usual. Prime Minister Gonsalves should radically shake up the security team. He should begin with his removal as security minister. At the ripe age of 77, he should pass those responsibilities to someone. Not that such a change may make a fundamental difference. They may, however, signal a passing of the guard. In any event, a new security minister can be no worse than Gonsalves.

Additionally, if only for optics, heads must roll. Commissioner John, who has held the top job since 2018, should be relieved of the responsibility. He may have stamped his authority among his orderlies and remains fiercely loyal to Gonsalves, his sponsor. However, his ascension to the leadership of the police has had no noticeable positive impact.

The time may be suitable to hire on contract a crime-fighting specialist to lead our police. The central task of the police from now on is to repair its fractured relationship with the population. The motto of protect and serve must be emphasised. Zero tolerance for police brutality must be prioritised. Aggressive policing must be banned except for emergencies, and friendly community policing must be encouraged. Citizen complaints must be respected and investigated. Those who, by their brutality, give the police a bad reputation must be dismissed, charged, and tried if the situation warrants.

Finally, in the short term, a change in our political directorate may offer some hope. Anything but the status quo. The universe knows we can’t take it anymore.

PapaÊs Card Game

by Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

BECAUSE HIS AGE AND FRAILTY LIMITED his participation in the current festivities, Papa thought that he could join in with the boys on the block and enjoy a card game. Even

though it was past the time when the rum shop should be closed according to the class of license under which it was authorized to operate, some apparently ignore that law. Additionally, when the wind blows, the stench of urine hits

everyone in their faces. Rum shops should have washroom facilities with running water. That regulation too does not seem important to enforce. In any case, “no matter what court you go to, you must come back to Papa.” He leaned his

walking stick against the table just beside his leg and said, “Fellars, let’s get going.” He, being the oldest, was given the pack to shuffle. He eagerly took the whole pack of special cabinet cards and made his first attempt. He was greatly embarrassed because the cards did not respond even after the fifth try. He dared not scratch his head because his sensitive skin could break requiring an expensive overseas trip to attend to it. So, he put his hand under his jaw and mused, “After one time is another.” He cracked all his fingers, hoping that by a little stimulation, they would be enabled, but that made no difference. Years of writing and finger pointing, especially the middle one, had taken their toll and perhaps carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or gout were being manifested.

He recognized that for a fair game to be played, the cards must be shuffled and sometimes reshuffled. He had a few tricks up his sleeves that he intended to try but everyone was watching and would notice. This, however, was no deterrent to him because his stature on the block would allow him to get away with almost anything. Even in this

matter he won’t be held accountable. A few rounds of drinks would smooth things over and no one would complain.

Perhaps the problem was with the cards themselves. One trump card seemed to be overused, tattered and old. It was clear that it lost its shine and could no longer function in the pack. Even though it played such a crucial role in the pack over the years, outshining kings and queens, its time had come for retirement. In its heyday it was a perfect example of “seven being greater than ten.” Rather five being greater than ten. This card had seen better days during the lunch hour at Public Works.

Another card caught his attention; however, he was distracted when someone at the table said that, he could eat a food. Papa promptly ordered food for everyone. At this time his mind ran on the Education Revolution, so he asked the men how their children were doing. One said, “Not good at all, since my wife was fired for not taking the vaccine, we are going through some rough times.” Additionally, one child couldn’t find work, another was repeating, and another couldn’t get

into college because he didn’t pass Math. Papa continued to examine the card and laid it aside.

The pack seemed bulky, so he took out what appeared to be a queen that appeared to be wet and swollen. This one reminds me of the high maintenance woman, so I must take it out. Similarly, a king was out of proportion and is comparable to the high maintenance man. It too must go.

Closer examination revealed an American card in the pack and wondered how it got there. Although it was shiny and new, it appeared to be stained with lipstick. Papa chose to maintain a dignified silence on this one.

Papa was happy to move the spotlight from himself, his age, his deficiencies, and his inability to shuffle the pack, and place the fault squarely on the pack itself. Momentarily he called out to the shopkeeper, expressing disgust with the whole pack of cabinet cards, “You don’t have a new pack? This one isn’t good. I am throwing it out.” The boys didn’t mind that the game never got going. They had enough food and drinks. They knew that Papa would get a “whacking” when the game is played with a new pack next time.

Parking in Kingstown to be examined

PARKINGin Kingstown is expected to be examined and addressed.

And Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves outlined some of the preliminary initiatives that have been put forward for discussion, while responding, in Parliament on Thursday 12th July, to a question posed by Opposition Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, St Clair Leacock.

Leacock requested that the government side state what initiatives were in place to assist parking in Kingstown.

Prefacing his response with reference to the fact that the problem was not unique to St Vincent and the Grenadines, the Prime Minister said, “I think we all recognize that city parking is a major challenge in urban areas in both developed and developing countries globally,” Gonsalves said.

According to Gonsalves, over the last 20 years there has been a rapid increase in the number of vehicles imported and therefore, parking in a concentrated area such as Kingstown with a finite space has not escaped government’s attention.

“The issue is the number of vehicles and the limited space in which to park them, so careful consideration as to how this issue in the city can be addressed, and in a country that is expecting exponential growth in its development and one that is

The early birds grab the spaces and then there are hardly any spaces left for those doing business in Kingstown.

impacted by the increase in the importation of vehicles — this is a matter that is occupying our attention,” he said.

According to Gonsalves, a document was commissioned by the Kingstown Town Board (KTB) in April 2022 to examine aspects of parking in Kingstown, and a local consultant was engaged to assist the KTB with reviewing the situation and making recommendations accordingly, to include to advise on streets that could be designated for time limit paid parking for the general public conducting business, to ensure equity in parking on the streets of Kingstown, and to determine measures that ought to be in place for business entities in

Kingstown.

The recommendations were also expected to including a parking policy in the transport policy and action plan to develop parking standards for Kingstown; improve the legislative framework on parking in the city inclusive of fees and fines; and consideration for the number of vehicles entering Kingstown.

These and the other recommendations are expected to be canvased in a national consultation on parking in the city, which the newly appointed Minister of Urban Development, Senator Benarva Browne, is expected to lead. (DD)

CDB pledges US$1.8 for ÂcreativesÊ

The Creative Industries in the region is being boosted with a USD1.8 million contribution by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

In a press release dated July 19th, the CDB informed that in fulfilment of its commitment to support the development of the region’s creative industries, the Bank’s Board recently approved the injection into the institution’s Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF).

The CIIF, a multi-donor endowment, was established in 2017 to encourage innovation, job creation and improved enterprise sustainability

within the sector.

According to CDB’s Director of Projects Daniel Best, “We are pleased to support this initiative. Given the challenges faced by our creatives, this fund will continue to fill a prevailing void by providing resources to create an enabling environment for the sector. We anticipate support for trade and export facilitation, marketing and distribution, human resource development and research as well the development of legal and policy frameworks in our 19 Borrowing Member Countries, BMCs.”

The CDB press release further stated that, globally, the creative economy is recognised as a growth sector and a meaningful contributor to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), having the capacity to spur innovation and knowledge transfer across all sectors of the economy.

It was described as a critical sector to foster inclusive development, possessing both commercial and cultural value, while presenting opportunities for human imagination and spreading important social and cultural values.

CIIF, which is governed by a cross section of regional organisations and administered by CDB, has since inception financed approximately USD 1.2 million in a variety of initiatives spanning music production, distribution, sales and events, audio visual, film, animation and gaming, festivals and carnivals, fashion, and contemporary design through non-reimbursable grants.

The Bank’s continued investment in the fund will lead to the increased contribution by the Creative Industry sector to economic outputs and foreign exchange earnings by improving the enabling environment, enhancing data collection and reporting, and improving the competitiveness of beneficiary MSMEs. This will build social resilience by ensuring no-one is left behind and contribute to economic resilience for inclusive growth. (SG)

Antiguan mother, daughter bound for space

Mission, seventh spaceflight and second commercial spaceflight dubbed ‘Galactic 02,’ on this flight will be a mother-daughter duo from Antigua.

Forty-six-year-old Keisha Schahaff and her 18-year-old daughter Anastasia Mayers will be the first such duo to fly to space and the first from the Caribbean on a whole.

Schahaff, a health and wellness coach, at her home in Antigua, with the news that she had won two tickets to space in November 2021.

The word is that she had entered a sweepstake a month prior for the $450,000 opportunity after seeing an ad while travelling.

Caribbean, I didn’t see how something like this would be possible.”

The trip is also a dream come true for 18year-old Mayers who is currently a second-year undergraduate studying philosophy and physics at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.

with American Jon Goodwin, who competed as a canoeist in the 1972 Munich Games, is 80 years old and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2014.

VIRGIN GALACTIChas

officially announced that in less than a month when it embarks on its first private Astronaut

The historic flight will take place on August 10.

LOOP News reported that Virgin Galactic founder Sir Richard Branson surprised

The entrepreneur had long dreamed of journeying to outer space and said in a release:

“When I was two years old, just looking up to the skies, I thought, ‘How can I get there?’ But, being from the

She aspires to become an astrobiologist for NASA and will be one step closer to that as she is about to become the second youngest person to travel to space.

The mother-daughter team will be travelling onboard VSS Unity along

Goodwin is aiming to be the second person with the condition to travel to space.

He was one of the early ticket holders for a trip to space with Virgin Galactic.

To date, fewer than 700 people have travelled to space, with little diversity among that group. Virgin

Galactic’s mission is to change that — beginning with an 800-strong Future Astronaut community that represents more than 60 different nations.

(Source: LOOP News)

Keisha Schahaff

Anastasia Mayers

Those in the craft industry would be anxious to share in the windfall.

Daniel Best, CDB’s Director of Projects, says CDB has recognized the challenges faced by the region’s creatives and is pleased to ‘lend a hand’.

Remembering Justice Monica Joseph

(Editor’s Note: The following is a Press Release (carried verbatim) issued by the Bar Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.)

Members of the Bar of St. Vincent and the Grenadines were thrown into mourning the loss of former Justice Monica Joseph.

The sad news was received last week

Thursday that Justice Joseph had passed away in her homeland, Grenada.

Justice Monica joined the staff of the Attorney General’s Chambers in the 1970s and served as

a Legal Assistant and then as a Crown Counsel. She served under the Hon. Arthur Williams who was then Attorney General in the Labour Party administration of the day.

She was subsequently promoted to Solicitor General and on the Bench, becoming the First female in the OECS to be promoted to the Bench of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (OECS). She served as a High Court Judge and a Justice of Appeal.

Apart from her legal professional services, Justice Joseph was a keen Guider with St. Vincent and the Grenadines Girl Guides Association and served as a District Commissioner in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

She had endeared

Monica Joseph served as a Judge in most of the States of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), as well as in the OECS Court of Appeal, until 1996.

herself to the Vincentian public and became popularly known as Tanty Monica or Auntie Monica.

She loved Carnival and would be involved in an ole mas from time to time. She even did a bit

of drama for charitable causes with members of the Bar.

Rest in peace Justice Joseph. Tanty Monica, we will remember you.

(Submitted by René M. Baptiste)

Elliot ‘Morie’ Millington: Football icon passes

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, particularly the East Kingstown community of Sion Hill, were thrown into a state of mourning on learning that national football icon - Elliot ‘Morie’ Millington - had passed to the great beyond.

Millington died on Monday, July 17 in the USA, where he had taken up residence since the late 1990s. He was 68 at the time of his passing.

He is perhaps best remembered as being the captain of the national football team when in 1979 the team shocked the Caribbean by placing second to Haiti in the Caribbean Cup. In doing so, the Vincy squad, underdogs in the finals, beat the more fancied Trinidad and Tobago and host Surinam.

He and the national team would repeat the feat two years later when they placed second to Trinidad and Tobago

in Puerto Rico.

The Sion Hill community shared intimately in Millington’s rise in national and regional football.

It was first as player and then as captain of the then formidable Sion Hill Football team that he honed his skills, much to the envy of his opponents.

He was made captain of the national team in 1977.

When his active playing days were over, he took to coaching and was the head coach of the national team in 1992, leading it to the semi-final stage of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers.

But more than that, he was responsible, a colleague said, for making the Sion Hill football team the formidable force it became in local football.

More will follow on this national icon in next week’s issue of THE

VINCENTIAN.

In the meantime, THE VINCENTIAN joins with the rest of the nation, especially the Sion Hill community and the football fraternity in extending sincere condolences to his family both here and in the USA.

May ‘Morie’ forever rest in the bosom of the Lord.

Elliot ‘Morie’ Millington has left an indelible footprint on the history of football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Tropical Shipping Donates to WPP

TROPICAL SHIPPING, a renowned shipping company serving the Bahamas and Caribbean for the past 60 years, showcased its commitment to corporate responsibility through a donation to World Pediatric Project.

On Thursday 13th July, 2023, Maxine Howard, Sales Manager of Tropical Shipping St Vincent & the Grenadines, handed over a cheque in an amount of ECD$2700.00 to Lauren McIntoshShallow, Executive Director, Caribbean, World Pediatric Project.

This donation supports World Pediatric Project’s mission to assist with defrayment of expenses for critical pediatric services to children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean.

Ms. Howard expressed her company’s delight in contributing to the World Pediatric Project, emphasizing its unwavering support for such a cause that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need, and belief in fulfilling their corporate responsibility through its giving committee.

Howard said “through this act of philanthropy, Tropical Shipping reinforces its position as a socially conscious entity that recognizes the importance of giving back to the people of the islands we serve as we actively seek out opportunities to make a positive impact on society through various philanthropic initiatives such as this.”

World Pediatric Project (WPP) is a non-profit organization which specializes in delivering critical pediatric services to children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean.

The project’s commitment to providing essential medical assistance has made a significant difference in the lives of countless children and their families.

World Pediatric Project has had a presence in St Vincent & the Grenadines since 2002 and has helped over 7000 children from across the region with a value of services in excess of EC$238 million.

McIntosh-Shallow extended sincere appreciation to Tropical Shipping for the financial support given to World Pediatric Project over the years adding that this contribution will further empower her organization to continue their noble work and extend its reach to even more children in St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean. (Submitted by Tropical Shipping)

(From left to right): Atyna Harry (Program Assistant, World Pediatric Project), Lauren McIntosh-Shallow (Executive Director, Caribbean, World Pediatric Project), Maxine Howard (Sales Manager, Tropical Shipping), Kerwin Kinson (Sales Representative, Tropical Shipping).

No obligation

Dear George,

I MET THISbeautiful girl at a karaoke bar and we exchanged numbers. However, after five telephone conversations with her, that was enough to tell me this girl is bad news. She came across as very argumentative and extremely self-opinionated.

Should I be feeling guilty about erasing her name and number from my phone without telling her? My plan is to just disappear altogether rather than to stick around for longer to stress myself out. She thinks we were meant for each other. I do not know where she got that idea from. Change of Heart.

Dear Change of Heart,

You are under no obligation to remain in any relationship in which you are uncomfortable. You always have to do what’s best for you and the relationship.

Have that talk with her. It is best that you be honest about it and move on. This way, you would leave with a clear conscience going forward.

George

My wife and a co-worker

Dear George,

A GUYat my girlfriend’s workplace is hitting on her. I have warned him but I am not convinced that my girlfriend is doing enough to avoid him. She accepts rides home always finding some excuse, like the weather, for why she does it. Recently, she is begging me not to be so hard on him.

Now this!! My girlfriend and this guy are due to attend a conference. They will be gone for two weeks. She

has not been able to hide her excitement and I found it strange that she was being so excited about going overseas with a coworker who has been sexually harassing her.

Suppose they really have something going and she was just pretending to be harassed by him? Do you think I have reasons to be concerned?

Just Asking.

Dear Just Asking,

If you do trust your girlfriend to be faithful to you and that same trust forms basis base of your relationship, then you will not be so preoccupied with these negative thoughts.

If, on the other hand, you cannot or do not trust her then you have no business being with her.

That is what you need to figure out rather than lose sleep over what can pretty much be a nonissue.

George.

Don’t rush into conclusions

Dear George,

MY WIFEdisclosed to me that her boss has offered her a ridiculous amount of money if she agreed to spend one night with him. The amount offered would take us out of the financial hole we are in.

When I asked my wife what her response was, she said she gave no answer. This was surprising since the woman I married 15 years ago would have shut anyone down immediately, who dared approach her with such nonsense talk. I am left to wonder where that woman has gone.

A good friend once told me that every woman has a price and I am now inclined to believe that maybe there is some truth to that.

Lost in Thought.

Dear Lost in Thought,

There are women around who would

strongly disagree with you that they can be bought once the price is right. Though, it is also true that financial pressure can force an individual to compromise his/her morals.

The fact that your wife did not immediately

reject the proposition speaks volumes and should push you to have a deeper conversation with her. This could be a good time to think about a vow renewal or some maintenance counselling.

George.

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

You may want to look into warm vacation spots. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments. You'll be surprised how much you can accomplish.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

You may want to make plans to take a vacation together. New relationships could evolve through group activities. Don't be too open or put your faith in unreliable coworkers. Those you work with may have little consideration for the underdog.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

You may need help with your financial situation. Social events held in your home will be successful and entertaining for those who attend. You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Don't upset elders in your family who don't understand your present situation. You may find your nights sleepless due to bad dreams. Your added discipline will help you complete the impossible at work. Real estate investments will pay off.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Deal with the needs of children and get into groups that deal with selfawareness. You will be able to catch up on overdue paper work. Eliminate situations that are no longer to your advantage. Your knowledge and good sense will help more than you think.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Don't allow colleagues to stand in your way. Tell them to get out of the mess they are in and then you'll consider getting together with them. Talk to the party involved and make sure that they are informed as to what actually happened.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Don't be afraid to lay your cards on the table. You will find their philosophies worth exploring. You will have the discipline and fortitude to accomplish what you want this week. Don't let coworkers get wind of your ideas or they might try to take credit for your hard work.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

You'll find it easy to talk about your feeling this week. Don't hesitate to find out what your mate's intentions are. Don't take your frustrations out on the ones you love. Get domestic chores out of the way early. Take care of your personal needs.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Take work home but be sure to spend some time with your mate. Limitations with females could lead to unfortunate circumstances. Opportunities for romance are present. Protect your interests legally if necessary.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

You need to get involved in groups that offer physical activities. You may have difficulties with foreigners. Don't let children hold you back from doing things you enjoy. You are best to put in some overtime rather than get involved in family gatherings.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

You can make new friends if you get involved in group activities. Don't let coworkers interfere with your objectives. Deception will play an important factor in relationships. Don't be too open or put your faith in unreliable coworkers.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Try looking into new ways to make extra money. You need to do something that will make you feel better about yourself. Your dramatic approach to life has probably gotten to your mate. Your ideas are right on the mark and your work commendable.

1. Love

ACROSS

5. Letters at Camp Lejeune

9. Queen’s entourage

14. Small road

15. Wind catcher

16. Inspired Hindi sage

17. Squeaked (out)

18. Fulmar’s kin

19. Part of NASDAQ (abbr.)

20. Risk a catastrophe

23. Dispute

24. On bended ___

25. Reddish purple

28. List of errors

33. The “greatest” boxer

36. Chicago five

39. One of TV’s Waltons 40. Kings’ battlefield 44. School near Hollywood 45. Elicit

Born as

Develop canines, say

Dutch cheese

71. Formerly, in days of yore

72. Sweater tug

DOWN

1. Smart-___

2. Some sharks

3. Slightly ahead

4. Pick another card

5. Brought into play

6. Delhi dress

7. Belarus city

8. Spic-andspan

9. Cup shaped depression

10. River in N France

11. Former country

12. Density symbol

13. First “O” of O-O-O

21. Group of people

22. Watch

26. Pecan or almond

27. Czech river

29. Antique auto

30. Give ___ for one’s money

31. Grow weary

32. Opening bet, in poker

33. Go up against

34. Add spirits to the Punch

35. Part of an archipelago

37. Sonny

38. Swing around

41. Krazy ___

42. Digital readout, for short 43. Put an end to

Monopoly buys

Do wrong

dance

Mining excavation

Jayden George scalps third CASA title

VINCENTIAN, JAYDEN GEORGEwon his third successive Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) title last Monday evening, July 17, at the National Squash Centre at Paul’s Avenue, when he copped the Under15 crown.

He did so when he won over Rosorea of Bermuda in the final, 11-5, 11-3, 11-1.

On his way to the final, George saw off Christopher Bovell of Trinidad and Tobago, 11-5, 11-1, 11-3, then outlasted Daniel Sealy of Barbados, 11-8, 11-5, 11-3.

George, who has another year in the Under-15 age category, won his first CASA title in 2019, when he won the Under-11, and last year trumped the Under-13.

Meanwhile, in other titles decided in the tournament, Mason Smith of Bermuda won the Boys -11, beating his countryman, Benjamin Sherratt: 16-14, 11-8, 11-7.

Ben Shepherd of Barbados took the Boys Under13 title, winning 11-1, 11-5, 11-3, over Ethan Mohamed of the British Virgin Islands.

Louis Da Silva of Guyana overcame Mohyran Baksh 17-15, 9-11, 11-4, 11-7, in an all-Guyanese final, to win the Boys Under-17. Another Guyanese- Nicholas Verwey, champed the Under19, by defeating Alex Stewart of Barbados, 12-10, 11-1, 11-6.

Among the females, Gia Ghuran of Trinidad and Tobago secured the Under-11, by defeating Delilah Pease of the British Virgin Islands: 11-5, 11-7, 11-5 in the final.

Lenna Hamati of Barbados took the Under-13, with an 11-7, 11-7, 10-12, 11-2 triumph over Kaylee Pierre of the Cayman Islands.

Taking the Under-15 title was Avery Arjoon of Guyana who outdid Bermudan- Somers Stevenson 11-7, 11-5, 11-6.

The other two titles were secured by Eboni Atherley and Sumaairaa Suleman, both of Barbados.

Atherley pouched the Under-17 title, with a straightforward 11-7, 11-, 11-4 win over Sanjana Nallapati of Jamaica, while Sulemann’s Under-19 win came at the expense Kirsten Gomes of Guyana: 6-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-6.

Following last Monday’s title matches, the players switched their attention to the Doubles segment.

The Tournament is set to climax tomorrow, July 22, when the Teams titles will be decided.

Open invitation to “Try Archery”

PERSONS INTERESTED IN ARCHERY are invited to get an insight into the sport, as the Archery Association of SVG hosts a “Try Archery” event this Saturday, July 22.

The event is set to shoot off at 1pm at the Dolphin Gymnastics Facility on the ET Joshua Tarmac, Arnos Vale.

The Association’s President- Sanjay Jiandani, outlined the aim of the event.

“This event is open to the general public and everyone from age eight and up is welcome to come and “Try Archery” …Each participant will be given the opportunity to learn the basic skill needed to shoot an Olympic bow and arrow with our trained instructors,” he shared.

Additionally, Jiandani noted that event will be used as a fund raiser, and therefore is inviting the public to support.

“This event is also set as a fundraiser to help the Association raise funds to assist our competition archers attend the upcoming World Archery Caribbean Development Championships in September 2023, in Tobago…. This will be the first time ever that a team from SVG will attend an international Archery event, and our archers are confident their training will lead them to capture medals in the various categories,” Jiandani related.

Six persons will represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the historic outing.

“We have a team of six archers registered to compete at the championships in four different categories, from as young as fourteen years old… The six are financing their trip, so that shows the magnitude of their commitment to the sport,” Jiandani said.

Apart from the country’s debut at an Archery championship, Jiandani is excited about the

Association breaking new ground.

“We are really, really excited about something locally that will advance the sport and indeed attract new archers… I don’t want to say much, but soon the public will know,” the President quipped.

The sport of Archery is the newest sporting discipline here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, having been inducted to World Archery in 2021.

President of the Archery Association of SVG- Sanjay Jiandani.

archers at practice last Saturday, July

at the Dolphin Gymnastics Facility.

Jayden George

Eboni Artheley

Nicholas Verwey (left), Louis Da Silva (right) Gia Ghuran

WÊwards U19 women finish second

THE WINDWARDIslands Under-19 female cricket team had to settle for second position when they were beaten by 37 runs by Trinidad and Tobago, in the finals of the CWI Rising Stars Women’s Under-19 Championship, played in Trinidad and Tobago last Sunday.

The Championship was played over six rounds of 30-over matches from July 4 to July 15, 2023.

In the final, played at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, the host took first strike and were restricted to 106 all out in 28 overs.

What would have been considered a ‘gettable’ target of 107, proved otherwise as the Windwards were humbled for 69 from 27 overs.

Cleton Burnett, head coach of the team, expressed that what the team

was able to accomplish was as a result of the development pathway, vision of the Board.

“We began this journey with these girls last year, and the results speak of their growth as individuals and as a team. …. Overall, I am proud of the way the girls performed in the tournament,” the coach said.

He added, “There are lots of positives from the tournament. However, what stood out most for me was the mindset of players to belief in themselves to accomplish the task. It was this mindset that fueled us on the field of play.”

Jennillia Glasgow, Windward Islands all-rounder, took the most wickets, scored the most runs and was voted MVP of the Championship.

Ernisha Fontain and Abini St. Jean

of the Windward Islands took the best wicket-keeper award and took the most catches respectively.

I.B.A. ALLEN

WÊwards, T&T, Barbados register wins

WINDWARDIslands, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago won their opening matches when the three-day format of the CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Championship bowled off here last weekend.

A nineteen-wicket match hall between off spinner Tarrique Edward and left arm spinner Kirt Murray helped set up a narrow 1-wicket win by

the Windward Islands over the Leewrd Islands. Edwards captured a match haul of 9 for 52 and Murray bagged a match haul of 10 for 66.

In the match played at Sion Hill, Windward Islands made 108Tarrique Edward leading with 27 and Onaje Amory bagging 5 for 31, and 145 for 9 - Noelle Leo, 45 and Amory 3 for 30. Leewards 141Michael Palmer 42, Malique Walsh 42, Kirt Murray 5 for 31,

Tarrique Edward 4 for 10, and 111 - Malique Walsh 38. Kirt Murray 5 for 35, Tarrique Edward 5 for 42.

Trinidad and Tobago beat Jamaica by 5 wickets at Arnos Vale. Jamaica 152 for 9: Steven Wedderburn 46; J Agard 3 for 10; A. Rambaran 3 for 29 - and 145; Adrian Weir 63; Steven Wedderburn 38; N. Ramlal 6 for 18. Trinidad and Tobago 191: R. Ramnath 63; R. Edwards 3 for 40; T

Three gain Concacaf B licences

ANDREWBramble, Keith Ollivierre and Alfred Grant have been certified as Concacaf B licence Football coaches.

Whilst the formal acknowledgement of the qualification was late in coming, the three are happy, not only for their respective accomplishments but because they view it as a shot in the arm for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Speaking to the VINCENTIAN last Saturday, July 15, Bramble underscored: “We have been doing the work for quite a long time and with the new vision of the Technical Department of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation and with our qualifications, we think we will be able to help Football get to a new level here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”.

For Bramble, the next

step up is to get his A licence, in the shortest possible time frame, as well as spread his expertise beyond the confines of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ollivierre shared that the thrust towards certification began whilst he held the post of Technical Director of SVG’s Football Programme.

“This process of accreditation started a while back, making sure that we have the right and quality coaches to impart what are needed for us to be competitive … We are moving now as to how to coach and to know how to coach…,” Ollivierre related.

Not resting on his laurels, Ollivierre is already pursuing his A licence, a pursuit he

recognises that “will not be an easy task”.

For Grant, it is all about building the St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football product.

“My personal ambition is that I want to use this certification to build at home, as I want to see St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football move forward, because it is hard to see we are behind in so many areas and leave and go in another country and develop theirs”, Grant stated emphatically.

Director of Technical Matters of the SVGFFTheon Gordon has expressed delight with the new certifications, and thinks it augurs well for St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football status.

Redwood 3 for 64; and 108 for 5; S. Ramnath 35 not out.

At Park Hill, Barbados beat Guyana by 80 runs. Barbados 302 for 9 declared: J Morris 59; Joshua Dorne 56; Nimar Bolden 50 - and 152 for 4 declared; Z. Brathwaite, 51 not out; Dorne, 41. Guyana 183: Jonathan Rampersaud 32 not out; A. Persaud 31 not outand 191; Zeynul Ramsammy 76; I. Folks 4 for 66; Nathan Sealy 3 for 46.

I.B.A. ALLEN

The Windward Islands team – runner-up in the 2023 CWI Rising Stars Women’s Under-19 Championship; with Jennillia Glasgow (centre front row) and Cleton Burnett (extreme left front row).

Tarrique Edwards bagged a match haul of 9 for 52.

Kirt Murray had a match haul of 10 for 66.

Keith Ollivierre Andrew Bramble

Alfred Grant

BirdÊs eye

WINDWARD ISLANDSbeat Leeward by one wicket at Sion Hill Playing Field last Monday afternoon. That’s one match of what is dubbed Rising Stars West Indies Cricket.

These players will emerge on the senior West Indies party, hopefully in the near future. By that time, they will have sharpened their skills and strengthened their knowledge of the subtleties of life.

That match was a low scoring affair, played in between showers of rain forcing frequent interventions by the ground staff.

It boiled down to Windwards having to score 145 for victory.

Leeward took first strike and battled to 141, off 56.2 overs. That gave them a 33 run platform, for the Windwards were dismissed for 108 in a slow grind lasting 44.4 overs.

Windwards however rebounded with a better display with the ball in the second innings with spinners Kirt Murray and Tarrique Edward proving thorny for the Leewards batters. Murray followed his 5 for 31 in the first innings with 5 for 35 in the second innings while Edwards 5 for 42 improved on his first innings haul of 4 for 10. Leewards made 111 in 46.2 overs.

Windwardss saw their opportunity of gathering full points. But every step along the way, there appeared to be some obstacle.

Leewards are the defending champions, secured in an attritional battle with their Barbadian counterparts at the Arnos Vale Playing last year.

Noel Leo 45, and Stephan Pascal; 35, laid the platform, but a combination of nerves and anxiety saw the Windwards within range of losing. Their last pair completed the victory to the delight of their mates and staff.

The bid for the championship continues and it will take some other rounds of matches top determine this year’s champion.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is benefitting from staging this competition in more ways than one. It is a pity that more effort is taken to ensure some sense of atmosphere at the games. It may be difficult to mobilise teachers to be responsible for children during the vacation.

Some Physical Education teachers might have been inclined to expose their students to these kinds of events even as a means of practical application.

That however is an issue of industrial nature. Teachers’ Union representatives will be concerned about ensuring rewards for teachers before they set foot outside the classroom. As a result, students miss the chance of seeing real life sports in action.

Just the same, persons might not be keen on witnessing any kind of cricket given the scope and direction of the senior squad. Youngsters don’t have the urge, desire or encouragement to play cricket.

There are so many alternatives. And there is no sense of purpose attached to the game as perhaps the older generation of Caribbean people, fed the pure diet of unbridled colonials, saw beating the masters of their game, as a an advancement for reparations for slavery and genocide meted out to the forbears of this generation.

Six teams are taking part in the Rising Stars competition. We will await the completion of the exercise and see what sparks there are for the future.

Basketball 3x3 incomplete

NOTWITHSTANDING that the tournament ended without a winner emerging, President of the SVG Basketball Federation Suzette Jackson was pleased with last weekend’s 3x3 Tournament played at the new Montrose Court, and hosted by the Federation.

Unfortunately, the final game between South Rivers and TMAC was marred by an incident involving two opposing players, and as a result the match was rendered incomplete.

The SVGBF assured that the matter was under “thorough investigation”, following which, further action might become necessary.

That apart, Jackson, who was on hand to witness the full tournament said, “I am very pleased with the level of play. I am encouraged by the support persons still have for basketball as we continue to do our best to revive and rebuild the game.”

Jackson went on to disclose that last weekend’s tournament “...will be the first of eight 3x3 tournaments we expect to hold throughout the country.”

She acknowledged that, “The 3x3 is the format which is being pushed by FIBA for countries within the Caribbean and Central America because of our small population and our limited financial resources.”

That aside, the SVGBF is working on the threeyear strategic plan which involves getting to the FIBA qualifiers.

“We have to play three tournaments before November 1st in order to qualify for the November

2023/24 qualifiers, and here we are with our first round. Once we play those slate of games we automatically enter into the ranking stages and the more games we play we have a better chance to go up for qualification ladder, so that’s our intention.” Jackson explained.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Largo Height takes S. Leeward Football League

LARGO HEIGHT, last Saturday, July 15, added the Hairoun South Leeward Football League title to their 2023 winnings.

Largo Height, who last month won the Sharpes League title, had Rose Place standing in their way of another moment of triumph.

Buoyed by large crowd support, neither outfit was able to breach each other’s defence.

In between, both sets of fans had their moments of “oohs and aahs”, as there were some near misses, but what was otherwise an exciting encounter petered out to a 0-0 stalemate.

The match was then decided from the penalty spot, with Largo Height trumping 3-1.

For winning the title, Largo Height got the winner’s trophy, medals and $1200, while Rose Place gained a trophy, $1000 and medals.

Before reaching Saturday’s final, Largo Height had defeated Lower Campden Park, 3-2; while Rose Place had a 2-1 over Top Campden Park.

Lower Campden Park went on to take the third spot, beating Top Campden Park, 4-2 on penalties, after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Lower Campden Park received a trophy,

medals and $800.

Meanwhile, among the individual awards, Largo Height’s Emery Bailey was named Player of the Final, with Jamal Duncan also of Largo Height, adjudged Best Goal Keeper.

Another reward for Largo Height went to Cordel

Theobalds, Best Midfielder, with Rose Place’s Meshach Pierre, adjudged Best Defender.

Roucha Bay’s Malcolm Stewart was the competition’s top goal scorer with 13 goals, while Jomeisha Giles, also of Roucha Bay, the lone female to score, named the Best Female Striker.

Plan was voted the Most Disciplined Team in the competition.

Action in one of last weekend’s 3x3 Basketball Tournament.

Suzette Jackson, President SVGBF, is focused on the rebuilding process.

Champions- Largo Height

Cordel Theobalds Jamal Duncan

Meshach Pierre

Malcolm Stewart

Pension Reform is coming

Continued from Backpage.

recommendations for the financial viability of the NIS.

These included:

* an increase in the contribution rate to at least 15 per cent – up from 10 per cent –progressively over the next 10 years;

* making NIS registration and payment contributions mandatory forall self-employed and informal sector workers;

* reducing long-term old age pension costs, including consideration of continuing the increase of the pensionable age until age 67 by the year 2032;

* reducing the maximum old age pension replacement rate from 60 per cent to 55 per cent, meaning that rather than receiving 60 per cent of their salary, pensioners would receive 55 per cent;

* discouraging the take up of early retirement pensions through adjusted benefit calculations or making the pension formula more progressive, i.e. instituting a slightly lower pension rate for those at higher income.

These measures are expected to extend the projected date for the depletion of the NIS reserves from 2034 to 2051, Gonsalves said.

It is anticipated, the Minister

told the House, that over the next four months, the NIS and the Government will continue internal consultation and public outreach “with a view to finalizing a list of concrete and impactful proposals.”

He reiterated that it was the intention of the Government to implement NIS and pension reform provisions beginning in Budget Year 2024.

After all, the situation was such that “with more retirees in the country living longer than ever before and with fewer contributors supporting each pensioner with an unsustainably generous pension design, urgent reform has become necessary.

“Reform of the NIS and pension systems, Gonsalves said, “is an urgent local and regional imperative.

ANTIONETTE ODINGA QUASHIE

Wednesday 19th July 2023

Cathedral, Kingstown Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

ROSITA CARMELITA NEVERSON

Sunday, 16th July, 2023

Good News S.D.A Church

Campden Park Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Cemetery

ALUR DIOLA CLASP

Friday, July 14, 2023

Kingstown Methodist Church Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

KENROY ALEXANDER CHARLES

Sunday, 16th July, 2023

Questelles S.D.A. Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

DAVID THOMAS

Saturday, 15th July, 2023

Kingdom Life Tabernacle Church

Mespo

Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Dumbarton Cemetery

EREN FRANSORENSO ANDREWS

Friday, 14th July, 2023

Glad Tidings

Tabernacle, Gomea Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Riley Cemetery

PENSION REFORM IS COMING

VINCENTIANS have been warned to expect reform to the National Insurance Services (NIS) by early in the New Year.

This warning was couched in a ministerial statement made by Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves during a sitting of the House of

Assembly, Thursday 13th July, 2023.

The statement was the Minister’s way of bringing the members of the House up to date on the 11th actuarial review of the National Insurance Services (NIS), and the independent analysis of the actuarial review

Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves has given clear indication that reforms will be made to the National Insurance Services in 2024.

conducted by the World Bank’s Reserve Advisory and Management Partnership (RAMP).

This country, he said, was not alone in facing mounting challenges to its social security system, i.e. NIS. He referenced an assessment report of 2020 in which the projected stability of social security systems was addressed, and stated that out of the sixteen regional social security systems, five will experience fund exhaustion in the 2020s, five in the 2030s, two in the 2040s, 3 in the 2050s, and 1 in

FORDE STUMBLES ON BIG FORTUNE

SIMON FORDEjoins the list of Vincentians that have been fortunate enough to come up with the winning combination of Super Six numbers. Forde, a resident of Bequia, was one of two winners of the EC$550,000 jackpot which was drawn on July 7. He received his winning of EC$275,000 on July 19.

The winning numbers were 1, 13, 23, 24. 25 and 26 and was purchased in Bequia.

According to Forde, he selected his numbers based on the date that he received his electric bill, FLOW bill among others.

“When I put them together, I said those are the numbers I am going to play and the outcome was real good,” Forde said.

He added that when he realized that he was one of the lucky winners of the $550,000 jackpot, he kept it a secret for about a week, after which he called his daughter and told her the good news.

The other winner of the half a million jackpot is a resident of Grenada, officials at the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) said.

Simon Forde (right) collected his winnings, in the company of his son Ashford Forde (centre), from NLA General Manager MacGregor Sealey.

the 2060s.

In what some observers say was something not unexpected, Gonsalves, in more exacting language, said that that according to the report, the local NIS reserves were projected to be depleted by 2034 if reform was not undertaken.

And he gave early indication that this reform is set to be reflected in the 2024 Budget. This action, Gonsalves said, was necessary if the country was going to avoid having to make “last minute draconian changes or fiscally imprudent government interventions”.

The National insurance Services was formalized when the National Provident Fund (NPF) ACT was repealed and replaced by the NIS Act #33 of 1986.

As far as concrete recommendations advanced by the 11th actuarial review, the Finance Minister stated that there were eleven specific

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