TRIPLE MURDER ACCUSED ISSUES WARNING
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
QUICK ACTION by a team of investigators led by Assistant Commissioner of Police, in charge of crime, Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey, has resulted in charges being laid in the May 16, 2025 triple murder and triple attempted murder at Belmont.
But the accused, Kesroy Ryan, a 25-yearold labourer of Lowmans Leeward, issued a warning as he left the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, following his arraignment.
Ryan told reporters, “Tell dem do their investigation right”, his face carrying a broad smile. .
Clad in a blue t-shirt, blue jeans and sandals, that broad smile remained a part of his countenance as he was photographed on his way to and from the Serious Offenses Court in strict police custody, including ACP Bailey himself and ACE investigator, Station Sergeant Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU).
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LAWYER WARNS AGAINST PUBLIC OPINION
ATTORNEY MICHELLE FIFE, representing Kesroy Ryan who is charged with the May 16, 2025 murder of three persons and the attempted murder of three others
Right: Attorney Michelle Fife is concerned about the case involving her client, Kesroy Ryan, being “tried” in the Court of public opinion.
in Belmont, has warned against trying the matter in the court of public opinion.
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Triple murder accused Kesroy Ryan (foreground) being escorted by Detective Station Sergeant Biorn Duncan (left) from the Serious Offences Court last Monday.
V News 3
injured during the shooting incident.
Triple murder investigation still ongoing
ALTHOUGH POLICE MADE
A BREAKTHROUGHin the triple murder that occurred at Belmont on May 16, the investigation is still ongoing.
According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey, the investigation was at a stage where an arrest was made, but it was not the end of the investigation.
“In fact, it has just commenced,” ACP Bailey told members of the media during a press conference on May 26.
On the same day, 25year-old Kesroy Ryan of Lowmans (Windward) made his first appearance at the Serious Offences Court in Kingstown following his arrest on May 24.
He was charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder.
ACP Bailey reported that a team was put together to investigate the shooting deaths of
businesswoman Lesline Davis, Joel Browne and Demeon Cumberbatch.
Notwithstanding the team’s work, he recognuise and thanked
those members of the public that offered support.
Three other individuals, including a 7-year-old boy were
ACP Bailey assured the public that the police force was still working to bring the others involved in the triple homicide to justice.
“I want to underscore that we will find you and bring you to justice,” he emphasized.
The ACP further said that he was aware of a video being circulated on social media which shows surveillance footage from inside the shop when the shooting occurred.
He, however, noted that the investigation was not limited to just the video.
“Our investigation is thorough and detailed,” he stressed.
While the ACP shared that a motive for the killing was identified, he said that any further information in this regard will be disclosed during the court case. (DD)
ACP Bailey not deterred
ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE Trevor Bailey has revealed that he and other members of the team investigating the triple murder that occurred at Belmont on May 16, received death threats.
But the veteran law enforcement officer said that that will not deter him or his colleagues from bringing the perpetrators of the heinous crime to justice.
“You cannot scare us. That is what we do for a living, we investigate crime and we are not afraid of criminals,” ACP Bailey told members of the media at a press briefing on May 26.
He did not provide detailed information about the threat that was received, except to say that the caller(s) wasted a telephone call.
“You really wasting a phone call sending a message like that to me,” adding that he
had better things to do such as fighting crime.
ACP Bailey revealed that the police had made a breakthrough in the triple murder which claimed the lives of Lesline Davis, Joel Browne and Demeon Cumberbatch.
Kesron Ryan, a 25-yearold Lowmans Windward resident was arrested and charged in connection with the incident. (DD)
Right: Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey, Asst. CoP and veteran crime fighter, is not going to allow a ‘little phone call’ to deter him from executing his duties.
Triple murder accused issues warning Lawyer warns against public opinion
There were mixed reactions from scores of curious onlookers, some who had flocked to the Court precincts just to get a glimpse of the accused, and others who were there because of their involvement in other court matters.
One other person detained for questioning in connection with the matter, was subsequently released pending further investigations.
Ryan was arrested on May 24, just eight days after the three persons were shot and killed, including businesswoman Lesline Davis, while three others survived the ordeal, as masked men reportedly stormed and opened fire at Davis’ business place at Belmont around 9:00 p.m.
Ryan has been charged with murdering the Belmont residents Lesline Davis, 68, Demeon Cumberbatch, 38, and Haynesly Browne, 30, by shooting them about their body according to a police report.
He is also charged with the attempted murder of Lorna Davis, a 60-year-old chef, Boncroft Abbott, a 65-year-old plumber, and Haydon Ballantyne, a 60-year-old labourer, all of Belmont.
Police reports are that Ballantyne was shot in his left foot while Lorna Davis and Abbott were shot at.
Ryan was not required to plead to the charges when he stood before Chief Magistrate Colin John on Monday.
Persons are not usually granted bail on murder charges, but when the Chief Magistrate asked the Prosecutor for his position about bail on the attempted murder charges for which bail is permissible, the Prosecutor said he was objecting to bail.
However, as the Prosecutor was about to give the grounds for his objection, attorney Michelle Fife, representing Ryan, told the Court she was not making an application for bail for attempted murder charges.
Ryan was remanded and the matter adjourned to June 2 for a status hearing.
A police release, dated May 26, stated that, “The arrest marks a critical step in an investigation that remains ongoing. The successful outcome thus far is the result of dedicated efforts by the investigative team and the cooperation of members of the public”.
The statement went on to thank all those who came forward with information that led this development, and expressed the hope for continued cooperation from the public, in relation to this matter, or any other criminal activity.
Fife expressed her concern to THE VINCENTIAN following Ryan’s arraignment at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday.
Fife, a senior lawyer and solicitor of Alpha Law Chambers, is fully aware that, “The cries for justice relevant to the matters concerning Ryan echo across the landscape of our country at this time”. But she has urged that, “There must be an avoidance of trying this matter in the court of public opinion before it has fully made its way through the legal system”.
Fife pointed out that, “Members of the public here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and in the diaspora, ought to be
mindful of the distinction between the court of public opinion and the formal court system.
“The former (court of public opinion) in my view, is unstable, because it is often inaccurate”.
Fife added, “In an existence where social media has created instantaneous access to the internet, this phenomenon has democratized access to public square where there are not rules of evidence, and there is infinite and unlimited space for cyber juries, cyber bullies, outrage, assumption, and even comments that are nothing more than random irrelevances that have nothing to do with the topic at hand”.
Fife said, “Before any
Court of law, any accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This position applies and is true for our client”.
She explained that the voice that speaks from the court of public opinion is not insignificant, but is very often unreliable where public opinion is not informed.
“Existing outside the formal court system, it has the potential to significantly impact the public perception of justice, as it relates to the accused, and ultimately the outcome of the case”.
Up to press time yesterday (Thursday), investigations were ongoing into the triple murders and triple attempted murders.
Continued from Frontpage.
Continued from Frontpage.
Illegal gun holder to be evaluated
by HAYDN HUGGINS
A 31-YEAR-OLD MASONof South Rivers/New Montrose, facing firearm and ammunition charges, will undergo psychiatric evaluation before his next court appearance on June 26.
Shawphiel Moore has been charged with possession of a 9 mm pistol and 12 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, without a license, stemming from a joint operation by the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) on May 20.
Moore also has a matter pending since January 15 for possession of a .32 revolver, one round of .380 ammunition, and two rounds of .32 ammunition without licenses.
When Moore initially appeared
at the Serious Offenses Court on May 22 in relation to the matter on May 20, he pleaded guilty to the charges.
When Chief Magistrate Colin John asked him whether he had a lawyer, he said attorney Grant Connell was representing him.
However, because Connell was not available at the time, the Magistrate entered a not-guilty plea for him and adjourned the matter to Monday, May 26, so that Moore could be legally advised.
But on Moore’s return to Court on Monday, Connell asked the Court to read the charge again to Moore. This was done and Moore again pleaded guilty, following which Connell made an application for a psychiatric
Shawphiel Moore will have a psychiatric evaluation before his next court appearance.
report on Moore, and asked that the facts and sentencing be adjourned pending that report.
The Chief Magistrate granted the application and adjourned the matter to June 26.
Moore also pleaded guilty to the other charges when that matter was called on Tuesday, May 27, and Connell made a similar application, which the Court also granted.
LENNOX ISAACS, a 45-year-old farmer of Chateaubelair, was spared an immediate custodial sentence on Wednesday for wounding his 85-yearold father, Alban Granderson.
Isaacs was sentenced to two years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for 18 months.
Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie handed down the penalty at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court after Isaacs pleaded guilty.
The Court heard that Isaacs and his father live together and around 1:20 p.m. on May 18, Granderson was at home with his son’s girlfriend and their 15-month-old son when Isaacs came home, appearing to be under the influence of alcohol, he was carrying a quart bottle with alcohol which he placed on the floor of the porch.
POLICE ROUND-UP Suspended sentence for wounding father
Construction worker charged with wounding
On May 24, 2025, police arrested and charged Asbert Rodney, a 24-year-old construction worker of Ottley Hall, with the offence of Wounding.
According to investigations, the accused unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 23-year-old resident of Rillan Hill by boxing her on her left eye and biting her about her body.
The offence was committed in Ottley Hall on May 26, 2025. Rodney appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court on May 26, 2025, and pleaded guilty to the charge. He was granted bail in the sum of $2,750.00 ECC with one surity and the matter was adjourned to May 28, 2025, for sentencing.
Labourer charged with assault
On May 25, 2025, police arrested and charged Juwani Joseph, a 28-year-old labourer of Layou, with the offence of Assault.
Investigations revealed that on May 1, 2025, the accused assaulted a nine-year-old student of the same address by lifting her five-year-old brother and throwing him onto her head, causing Actual Bodily Harm.
Joseph was granted station bail in the sum of $1,500.00 ECC with one surety He is expected to appear before the Layou Magistrate’s Court on May 29, 2025, to answer the charge.
32-year-old on theft and damage charges
On May 27, 2025, police arrested and charged
Garnet Thomas, a 32-year-old Labourer of Layou/Kingstown, with the offences of Theft and Damage to Property.
According to investigations, the accused stole one (1)black Samsung Galaxy S10 Cellular Phone valued at $700.00ECC, one (1) Digicel Sim card valued at $15.00ECC, one (1) transparent phone case valued at $25.00ECC, and $150.00ECC in cash- total value being $890.00ECC. He was also charged with damaging the back cover and SIM card slot of the said Samsung Galaxy S10, valued at $160.00ECC, by prying it open same with an unknown object, without lawful excuse. The property belongs to a 54-year-old Carpenter of Mesopotamia.
The offences were committed in Kingstown between May 21 and May 23, 2025, between the hours of 8:30. a.m. and 10:30. a.m., respectively.
Thomas appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate Court where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. The defendant bail was denied and he was remanded into custody.
Barber on murder charge
A 26-YEAR-OLD BARBER of Glen is behind bars, awaiting a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) on a murder charge, following a recent chopping incident in that community.
Deondre McDonald has been charged with the murder of Ronaldo Haynes, a 21-year-old labourer of Glen.
Haynes sustained multiple chop wounds, reportedly following an altercation in the vicinity of McDonald’s a barber shop on May 14 at about 11 p.m.
According to reports, Haynes’ death resulted from an argument, which ensued outside the barber shop, over a quantity of plumrose which, residents said, did not belong to either of them.
One source said that McDonald pursued Haynes who had taken off in the direction of the Mental Health Centre McDonald.
Isaacs’ girlfriend kicked it away, and Isaacs rebuked her. He then took up a cutlass and struck it on the porch wall three times, and told his girlfriend to leave the house. But his father told him that he could not remove the girl from the house because of the baby.
Isaacs then turned to cursing his father while pointing the cutlass at him.
His father, in turn, retrieved a cutlass from the kitchen and returned to the porch where he saw his son holding the baby in his left hand and the cutlass in his right hand.
Isaacs unleashed a chop at his father who put his right hand to defend himself but received a chop wound and other injuries in the process.
Granderson reported the matter to the police and Isaacs was arrested and charged.
The Court heard that Isaacs and his father had got into previous violent altercations due to the son’s alcohol addiction. The court heard that Isaacs, on a previous occasion, had stabbed his father in his chest.
Isaacs told the Court that he was in no position to pay compensation.
The Magistrate imposed the suspended sentence after applying the sentencing guidelines and weighing the mitigating factors against the aggravating.
Deondre McDonald is charged with causing the death of Ronaldo Haynes.
Ronaldo Haynes died as a result of multiple chop wounds.
Persons on the scene transported Haynes to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. McDonald was not required to plead when he appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on May 19 and was remanded.
The matter has been adjourned to June 19.
CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Statement on the recent spate of murders in the Country
(Editor’s Note: The following statement is carried verbatim)
THE CHRISTIAN COUNCILstands united in grief and condemnation of the gun violence that has robbed our communities of peace and security, and has resulted in continual homicides. We denounce violence in any form, the perpetration of evil, and disruptive practices among us.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones in this time of bereavement, and we pray that God may comfort and strengthen them. Indeed, our hearts are heavy with grief as we join the nation in mourning this tragic and senseless loss of life, and violent injuries in our beloved country. We also pray that God may grant full recovery and healing to the injured persons. Violence in any form is to be condemned and denounced; the horror of the recent triple murder has shaken us to our core. Still, amidst this darkness, we urge the nation to hold fast in hope to Christ, who reminds us in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” We affirm that life is sacred, and we must work tirelessly to uphold its dignity. Every life lost to violence is a heartbreaking wound to society, and an offense against God’s call
for love, compassion and justice. As followers of Christ, we reject the culture of fear and destruction, and instead, we call for a renewed commitment to peace – peace in our hearts, homes, and streets. Even as we lament this tragedy, we must all soberly and deeply examine the root causes of such violence within our country and commit to work collaboratively and decisively to promote peace, justice, and well-being for all. The Council pledges to work with the authorities to reduce violence in our nation.
Accordingly, the Christian Council calls upon all of us to take concrete steps to address the issue of gun violence. This includes supporting initiatives that foster peace and non-violence and advocating for sustainable strategies that enhance safety, among other measures. Let us choose peace over violence, love over hatred, and justice over destruction.
As people of deep and abiding faith in God, we must teach love, forgiveness, and respect in our homes, our schools, and reinforce it in our communities and our churches. We must learn intervention and de-escalation strategies that will reduce and diffuse conflict. Additionally, we must commit to mentoring our youth, especially offering guidance and support to those who are
disenfranchised, lacking direction and feeling hopeless. Through unwavering faith in God, with hope let us pray more fervently for God’s mercy and guidance to bring about the necessary transformation. May God grant our nation healing, wisdom, and the courage to be agents of his peace.
Bishop Gerard County, Roman Catholic Church, and President of the SVG Christian Council
Bishop C. Leopold Friday, Anglican Church
Rev’d. Philbert S. Delaney, Methodist Church
Captain Wilkings Buissereth, Salvation Army
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Condemn Venezuela’s disrespect
THE GUYANA-VENEZUELA impasse is not going to escape the attention of this column once one of the parties steps out of bounds of agreed protocol.
And as this column sees it, Venezuela appears to be hell bent on unapologetically disrespecting any if not all of the agreed protocols, not least being the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) current ongoing consideration of the impasse, the claim to the oil-rich Essequibo region at the core.
The column has not stepped back from calling out Venezuela for flying in the face of international law and the ICJ, and flying in the face of the Argyle Declaration which CARICION countries, led by our own Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, brokered and put every confidence in the ‘disagreeing parties” that they would abide by the protocols therein.
The latest demonstration of Venezuela’s total disrespect for the of the negotiated understandings like the Argyle Declaration, that serve as guidelines during the interim that allows the ICJ to consider the matter of jurisdiction of the Essequibo Region, is that South American country’s holding of election, Sunday 24th May, 2025, for officials who will governor/administer the oil-rich territory, which Caracas claims from neighboring Guyana as part of a centuries-old dispute.
The ICJ, earlier this month, ordered Venezuela to suspend plans to extend its election to Essequibo, a message to Venezuela that its claim on the Essequibo has not been legitimised.
Unperturbed by this “order”, the vote took place among 21,403 voters in a special area created by Venezuela on the Guyanese border. The election was another demonstration of Venezuela’s disrespectful attitude to an understanding that each party will refrain from any action that would provoke any undue response from the other — whether that response be military or otherwise.
The provocation was heightened when Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro declared: "Today, Essequibo has a governor," moments after the results were announced, and added that the person elected (Governor) “will have full support (budget, etc.) for his work,” and that President Ali "will have to sit down with me to discuss and accept Venezuelan sovereignty."
The latest development did not escape the Guyana’s government which, ahead of the vote, denounced the election as another threat with that CARICOM country’s President Ali saying his country “will do everything
Three eyebrow raising events
to ensure our territorial integrity and sovereignty is kept intact".
Don’t expect, as he had indicated previously, that President Ali will cow to Maduro’s latest threat(s) and insinuations of superiority, or be frightened by attacks (three in recent times) on Guyana Defence Force troops, who were conducting routine patrols, by armed men in civilian clothing on the Venezuelan shore.
Here is what we need to remind CARICOM about:
Venezuela’s disregard for the ICJ ruling and to go ahead and hold elections for a ‘Guyana Essequibo State is an outright attempt at undermining Guyana’s territorial integrity and must be condemned.
The Essequibo region comprises about two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and has remained in Guyanese hands and governance since independence, and any effort by Venezuela to assert and/or establish sovereignty over the region is a stark violation of widely established international law, threatens to destabilize the Caribbean and Latin American region, and must be condemned.
Venezuela’s aggressive action, e.g. the March 1, 2025 intrusion into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone by a Venezuelan vessel, the ABV Guaiqueiri PO-11-IMO 469552, reflects a calculated pattern of escalation threats against not just the sovereignty of Guyana but also its economic development, and must be condemned.
Despite the Argyle Declaration of December 2024 being hailed as a diplomatic success that would arrest Venezuela’s possible invasion of the Essequibo Region/Guyana, Venezuela’s response since signing that Declaration suggests it was a strategic lull and not a genuine commitment to a peaceful settlement. Venezuela’s flaunting of the Argyle Declaration must be condemned.
Guyana’s response to this conflict has been admirable — adherence to international law and exercising remarkable restraint in the face of provocation from Venezuela. That irrevocable provocation must be condemned.
Venezuela’s contempt is a blatant challenge to the international legal order and regional stability.
CARICOM must take the lead and step up pressure on Venezuela to respect the protocols that are in place as the ICJ considers the matter at hand. The peace and stability of our region depend on it.
I CAN’T HELPbut wonder why we are so excited about Rainforest’s expansion. In normal circumstances, this move is a natural business expansion to fill a glaring void in the local market. However, let me be clear: I’ll never buy a pound of fish or a breadfruit from them. Now, I’m not calling for a boycott, but if you’re concerned about preferential treatment, there are plenty of other places to get your fish or “ground provision.” My choice not to support them will not change their bottom line but will give me peace of mind.
Government Concessions
It’s intriguing how, like many things in SVG, this business is racking up all sorts of variances from our planning codes and government institutions. Just think about it–why did it take a question in parliament for the government to awkwardly announce that no new set of financial concessions was given to them? While this answer might have satisfied the opposition, it did not cut it for me. The Planning Department variance allows them to construct a new business close to the highway, without requiring accommodations for safe access to and from it. That variance was indeed a cost-saving and, therefore, a concession. Where will the customers park while accessing the business? According to my rough calculation, an operation of this size should require at least ten onsite parking spaces–another concession.
Audit Accounts Committee
The opposition seems excited about the upcoming Public Accounts Committee meeting. Oh, wait!! The committee chair has not yet scheduled it. After so many years of neglecting their duties, what’s driving this sudden urgency? Are they honestly expecting to stumble upon some jaw-dropping irregularity in government spending? Do they need a special committee meeting to uncover that the government borrowed funds for the port without parliamentary approval? I listened in anguish as they went off on many tangential discussions about the port while being asked to retroactively approve the most recent loan taken out by the Port Authority. During this discussion, no one asked why this loan agreement was entered into before parliament’s approval.
The government’s sheer disdain towards the opposition is nothing short of astonishing. This jaw-dropping spectacle is rivaled only by the opposition’s astonishing ineptitude and shocking disregard for their responsibility to the citizens they were elected to represent.
With all the buzz surrounding this issue, I’m betting the audit committee is gearing up for an exciting meeting before the election. The audit committee will be used to search for campaign materials, and it’s bound to spark some lively discussions. However, I do not expect any groundbreaking revelations when they convene. It could leave the public feeling even more let down and less trusting of our political officials. Do you remember the marijuana farmers’ exhilaration when the medical cannabis bill was passed? Remember how thrilled they were? The air was filled with high hopes and dreams. But then came the reality check, and the letdown hit hard.
Irrigation
After years of investing millions into a scattered and ineffective irrigation programme, the Minister of Agriculture is proclaiming irrigation a game-changing solution for the industry. The minister unveiled a groundbreaking plan to slash farmers’ production costs by introducing water tanks directly on their farms. This “innovative” idea is expected to eliminate the costly, labour-intensive process of trucking water to the farm. He proclaimed that the future looks bright for the farmers as their crop yields improve.
I can’t help but think about how different things might be if we had fully embraced this idea years ago when we had the financial freedom to make it happen. Picture this: Back in the 1990s, the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) managed the agricultural irrigation programme. We had a golden opportunity to revolutionize our agrarian irrigation system. I vividly recall the passionate discussions about surface water control and the noticeable frustration between the CWSA and the Ministry of Agriculture about a comprehensive water management strategy. This friction continued into the new administration, and I do not think it has been resolved. The lack of commitment from both past and current administrations to support the irrigation unit in the ministry was disheartening. And I cannot forget the audacious claim made thirty years ago by someone in the ministry that farmers wouldn’t need an irrigation system because we had plenty of rain. Imagine the potential we could have unlocked.
Horatio
What about those CDC shows? Retailing petroleum products
FOR SOME TIMEnow, I have been deeply concerned about the increasing sale and distribution of petroleum products, such as cooking gas, diesel and gasoline by small retailers across various locations. While I acknowledge that individuals must earn a living, I question whether such retail operations are conducted in full compliance with the Law and established safety regulations.
What is particularly troubling is the emergence of petroleum retailing in developing areas and residential neighbourhoods. Given the hazardous nature of these products, their presence in such environments poses a serious threat to citizens.
This concern is further amplified by the fact that our country lacks a decentralised fire service and, at best, has a fire response that may not be sufficiently equipped to handle emergencies swiftly and effectively.
This raises important questions: Are the necessary checks being carried out before individuals are granted permission to retail petroleum products? Are retailers meeting safety standards? Who is responsible for enforcing compliance, and is there sufficient oversight?
It is imperative that authorities take proactive measures to regulate this growing sector, ensuring that safety remains a top priority. I urge the relevant agency to conduct thorough inspections and enforce stringent guidelines to prevent potential disasters before they occur. I hope by bringing attention to this issue, we can prompt meaningful; discussions and actions to safeguard public safety.
Eric Samuel
FOR THE LASTfew years
we have seen the gradual decline in the attendance of CDC sponsored shows in favour of the private, sometimes ‘all inclusive’ Vincy Mas activities. While I have no issue with private organisers also ‘eating ah food’, the primary responsibility of the CDC and their promotions and marketing teams, is to guarantee attendance at their shows.
My advice to the CDC on how to keep the numbers close to maximum attendance in Victoria Park and other venues where CDC shows are staged, involves a simple strategy … ‘it is in giving, that you receive’.
Major sponsors, the Brewery, ECGC, FLOW, DIGICEL, Rum and alcohol distributors to name some, can pay for at least 100 tickets for every CDC show, and use the FM station, local TV and all print media to conduct giveaways of these tickets, by having listeners answer a
Carnival history or current carnival activity question.
This type of promotion does several things: it keeps Vincymas fans updated with the upcoming shows; guarantees that at least 100 persons will attend each of these shows; persons who win tickets will no doubt be accompanied by other paying patrons so that will double the numbers, guaranteeing that the bars and food stalls will also be supported; guarantees customer loyalty (very important) and listener/reader loyalty from persons who win tickets.
What I say online of the launch of Vincymas 2025 in the USA, was the promotion of private shows on the big screens ever so often, while we had CDC officials present who didn’t even promote the CDC sponsored shows like Kiddies Carnival, Junior and Senior Panorama, Soca Monarch, Mardi
Union Island Friendly Society
THE UNION ISLAND FRIENDLY SOCIETY was established since about 1934 and was an organization set up mainly to enable honorable burial of the dead. Their motto of, “bear ye one another’s burdens,” aptly describes collective responsibility and cooperation among islanders. The
membership came from every religious denomination represented on the island and commanded the respect of everyone.
Meetings were held regularly and the minimal dues collected met the society’s obligations. When members took ill, they were exempted from
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* Can the police remove all the power amps and the thumping bass speakers from public transportations with the same vigour they used to remove tints, extra lights, etc, from all vehicles?
* When will FLOW TV consumers regain access to Carib Vision, Africa HD, Law & Crime, Pix II, TV Land, AXN to name a few channels that have been removed?
* Will the public ever get the truth as to who killed Sgt. Chambers at Mr. Lewis’s Home in Campden Park, a few years ago?
* Why don’t all banks use passbooks so that their customers can follow all transactions?
* Is it a policy of financial institutions to have no more than three tellers to attend to long, long queues of customers?
* Why do performing artistes/entertainers show such contempt and disrespect to their patrons by performing bareback, some males with their boxers high above their pants waist?
paying dues and some were even given a small stipend called, “sick benefit.” In the days when there were no funeral homes or morgues, the machinery was in place to produce coffins at short notice to facilitate same day or next day burial.
Over the years, the Society Hall served many functions including community center, church, Sunday school, Sabbath school, concert hall, school, hurricane shelter, exam center, magistrate court and
When Beryl passed on July 1, 2024, the building was damaged, and the roof was blown away. This community building is most deserving of restoration. It took collective action to build it a century ago and will need the same action today. Moreover, the organization needs to be preserved as one of the most important historical community grouping.
Gras and other CDC shows, with the same frequency as the other ads. I was disappointed. They could have also used that opportunity to promote the sale of season tickets for the CDC shows as well as give away at least 10 season tickets for the CDC shows by interacting with the patrons at those launches and asking them to answer a Vincymas related question. That, simple as it may seem, is an effective strategy in getting patrons to support CDC sponsored shows.
When the CDC shows are profitable, it lessens the burden on sponsors and government to pay prize monies for the winners of the various competitions, as well as transport and appearance fees/costs for the steel bands and other components that make Vincymas the best cultural festival in the East Caribbean.
The CDC along with
Who
the Tourism Department are responsible for marketing Vincymas. It is not too late to implement these simple but effective marketing strategies, or we may not be able to ‘party normal’ when it comes to paying out prize monies.
CDC can use the calypso tent in the US and those at home to promote both the calypso semis and Finals (Dimanche Gras) by giving away tickets at these shows, as well as using our local radio stations so to do. Have a safe and accident free Vincymas. Enjoy the pageantry, music and food, but do NOT overdo!
Donald De Riggs
THE BAPTISTSwere liberated almost 80 years ago. It was not on May 21st 2025, as touted (for political reasons) by those in authority. To do so is an obnoxious and vulgar display of vote-harassing. If you think you succeeded, you are not ‘on the ground’ as you like to boast. Your behaviour did more political damage to you than you think. Trust me on this.
You have desecrated the people’s religion and contaminated their sacred activities. The sad thing is that nobody wants to call wrong by its right name.
There was no need to exhibit your descriptive, boring, obtrusive, disgusting, and expired votecatching stunts. I know you have an election to win (as you usually say), but you went overboard. I see it as mockery.
A Voter
Foreign investment⁄ tourism
WHY ARE OUR politrickans and businessmen and others fooled by this nation of foreign investment??? When a foreigner comes to your country to INVEST, he does NOT come to help you but instead to EXPLOIT YOU and make you POORER.
Study closely the HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY (what some call TOURISM). The government spends lots of money to promote and advertise for this INDUSTRY and who makes the profits from it???? The foreign investors. Every Caribbean
country that is a so called TOURIST SUCCESS is a POOR xyxxc COUNTRYJAMAICA, BARBADOS, ANTIGUA, ST. LUCIA, TURKS AND CAICOS, ANGUILLA. ALL THE PROFITS GO TO THE HOME COUNTRY OF THE INVESTORS.
YES, they provide some jobs but DO YOU NOTICE??? The majority of these jobs is at the BOTTOM rung of the MONEY LADDER and the LOWEST PAYING JOBS.
workshop venue.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
ULP Ascendant, NDP in total dissaray
(NB: This is an extract from a much longer article )
ANOTHER GOOD WEEK OF ULP SUCCESSES
LAST WEEK (MAY 18TH TO MAY 24TH) has been yet another good week for the public to assess the high quality, in practice, of the ULP government’s public policies and correspondingly the utter disarray of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). The public are talking about the continuing successes of the ULP government and the awful mess, that engulfs the NDP. Every week this is the same story. Look, read, listen!
Some highlights, last week are, as always, an admixture of government and politics – two wings of the metaphoric bird of governance in majestic flight. Those governmental include:
1. The week of thanksgiving and celebration of the Freedom Day (May 21st) for the Spiritual Baptists’ Right to Practice Their Religion, the consummation of the ULP government’s legislative initiative in the declaration of a public holiday, annually, for this righteous liberation purpose.
2. The continued manifestation of the ULP government’s tripartite economic approach of an efficacious partnership, in the people’s interest, of the private, cooperative, and State sectors in at least five initiatives put in the public domain: (i) The 40th anniversary of the successful St. Vincent Brewery Limited; (ii) the announcement by the Minister of Finance of a US $375 million investment for the construction of a 375-room family familyoriented hotel at Mt. Wynne, and the imminent start-up of the 250-room Marriot International Hotel; (iii) extensive discussion between the owners of Palm Island Resort and the government on the significant investment to rebuild the Palm Island Resort and the Anchorage Hotel on Union Island, both destroyed by Hurricane Beryl; (iv) the continued background work for the prospective start-up of the Kingstown Cooperation Credit Union’s construction of a substantial regional headquarters at Georgetown on lands purchased from the government; (v) the roll-out by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries on a bundle of initiatives in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
3. The public acknowledgement by the people, including those severely affected in the Southern Grenadines, that the government has been doing a good job in rebuilding after the devastation of Hurricane Beryl.
4. The fruitful dialogue between the Prime Minister and his team (inclusive of officials from the Ministry of National Mobilisation) on the one hand, and the leaders of Our Lady of Guadelupe Home for Girls (on May 19th), and the core leaders of Esther’s Promise, a local initiative to house challenged teenaged girls/young adult women (May 23rd), on the other hand. This social partnership (State and NGOs) mirrors that of the tripartite economic partnership.
5. The hosting by the Prime Minister and Comrade Saboto of the Kindergarten Students and Teachers of the Lowmans Windward Anglican School on May 23rd, reflecting the joinder always between the Ministers of Government, and students, teachers, of all grades/levels.
6. The formal opening on May 23rd of the buildings of the University of the West Indies Global Campus in Kingstown, magnificent joint venture between UWI
and the government for the enhanced access of tertiary education for Vincentians.
7. The hosting, on May 22nd, by the Office of the Cabinet Secretary of a oneday seminar/retreat of Permanent Secretaries and Senior Public Servants at the Holiday Inn in a quest to strengthen public administration and the delivery of public services to our nation.
8. The publication and presentation to Parliament, in accordance with law, of: (i) the Report of the Director of Audit on the Public Accounts of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for 2022, and (ii) the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority by the SVG Audit Office – modernized, far betterstaffed, equipped, and housed than ever before by the ULP government.
9. The preparation for Parliament for May 29, 2025, likely to be postponed because of the very late submission of questions by the NDP parliamentarians for oral answers by ministers.
10. The continued roll-out of the massive capital programmes of the government, including the modern port, the hospital at Arnos Vale, the sea defences at Sandy Bay, and the roads all over SVG.
During that week, Comrade Ralph delivered five speeches. Three at three events involving the Spiritual Baptists (including a substantive speech at Victoria Park on May 21st); one at the 40th anniversary celebration of the St. Vincent Brewery; and a major speech on tertiary education at the opening of the UWI Global Campus Buildings. Other Ministers including Gomery, Saboto, Orando, Curtis, Carlos, and Camillo made public interventions on matters touching on their respective portfolios. Camillo was on WE FM for two hours on May 25th.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Prince was overseas in Geneva at the World Health Organisation Conference; Keisal Peters was in New York at the Invest SVG Diaspora Forum; and Gustus was on regional duties.
As another week started (May 25th), Comrade Ralph and Luke Browne were at Sion Hill at an African Liberation Day activity organised by a local committee. From there Comrade Ralph went to the CDC’s “Ivory Soiree”, a festival of pan, at Victoria Park; the ULP’s policies on the steelband have been central to the upswing of pan.
ULP ACTIVISM
On the strictly political party front, the ULP was, as always, the centre of activism on the ground. The highlights last week were “the Red Limes” at Calliaqua and Mt. Bentinck, on the night of Friday May 23rd. Both were very well attended; an air of anticipated electoral victory was palpable at these two gatherings. Both Comrade Ralph and Comrade Chevonne Stewart left “the lime” at Calliaqua, which Camillo held the fort, to join Comrades Grace Walters and Montgomery Daniel at Mt. Bentinck.
ULP’s activism is focused currently on ensuring that the rebuilding efforts after Beryl are proceeding apace for all the people, and putting things in place, preparatory, for pre-elections ramp-up.
Hurricane Season approaches:
Is the Southern Grenadines prepared?
ONE YEAR AFTER HURRICANE BERYL inflicted extensive damage to the Southern Grenadines, normalcy has yet to be restored to the islands. As the official hurricane season commences on June 1st, Member of Parliament for the Southern Grenadines, Honourable Terrance Ollivierre, has voiced serious concerns about the current situation, criticizing the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government for what he describes as inadequate planning for the season and insufficient measures to deal with the persons who have been affected by hurricane Beryl.
Mr Ollivierre raised his concerns on the New Times program. He said: “There are residents from the Southern Grenadines who are on the mainland close to a year, and it’s close to the hurricane season once again. First and foremost, these people are longing to go home, but some of them don’t have any house to go to. Some of them do not have any lands on which to rebuild because they were renting. You know the situation when you are renting, and they are looking for accommodations for themselves and their families.
I put out a video last week showing how Union Island is still not fixed. Some people told me that comments were made that persons’ houses were already fixed. But I wish to assure the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, if you go to Union Island, you would see those houses on Union Island that have not been fixed. There are some houses that were demolished by Beryl which have to be completely rebuilt.
That process for some people have started. Others have not. While talking to some people in the temporary accommodations on the mainland, they told me that some of them attend the consultation at the cruise ship berth and some went to Union Island to the consultation. And they were told that they need to get lands or ask members of their families who have lands, if they can provide them or help them out in order to put whatever they want to give them, whether it’s the prefab houses on these lands.
I took pains to point out that about two weeks or so after Beryl, we had the Supplementary Estimates that made provision for $2.5 million to purchase lands for people who were displaced by hurricane Beryl. I know certain provisions were made for people in other parts of St Vincent and the Grenadines when it had flooding and people’s houses were destroyed, the government bought lands, built houses, and these houses were distributed to people. Why was the same consideration not made for people of the Southern Grenadines who were displaced by hurricane Beryl? Several months ago, the government tried to occupy lands from private people in Union Island in order to give to develop. Why is it that they can’t acquire land in Union Island to build houses for people who are suffering and who are longing to
go home?
Here you have $136 million in an Estimate which was put forward to help people who suffered from the effects of hurricane Beryl. And up to today, some people were asking me, where is the money? Where has it gone? Where was it spent? Do we have a breakdown of where the money went or how it was spent? Why are there so many people still suffering on this island?
Apart from that, I want to also add, when you look at the business places in Union Island, the business people are suffering to get operational again. Why is it that help have not gone to these people in order to get their businesses up and running again so that they can provide economic activities on the island that is needed to provide the employment and other things that are needed for the island to start to rebound because we know with economic activities and people are returning to their homes, people are looking to earn a livelihood and we will get back to where we were and even better as quickly as possible.
I also want to point out that we are just a couple days away from the beginning of the hurricane season. Most of the shelters on Union Island, Mayreau are no more. They have been destroyed. Do we have alternative shelters? In case you here again, very early in the hurricane season that a storm is coming our way. What has been put in place? What are they saying to people in terms of these shelters? Have you look, as I said, at alternative shelters that can be used? In some cases, the hurricane shelters have been completely destroyed. However, Canouan is a little better off.
The residents of Union Island are very anxious. Sometimes as soon as it starts to rain, they people get nervous. They are not asking for another hurricane. They want to be prepared in the event that they are affected by another hurricane. What are they supposed to do if they are affected? And likewise, on mainland St. Vincent, have the hurricane shelters been checked? Have they tried to make sure that they are in good conditions to withstand whatever category of hurricane may come our way? So, these are questions we have been asking. And I really hope that within the Southern Grenadines efforts are being made to provide people with their homes in order to get them and their families back together. As I said, what is of particular concern to me is the persons who are living in temporary accommodations on mainland. The people are longing to go home. Conditions cannot be comfortable for them and they want to go back. And they’re looking for the help and the assistance that are necessary in order for them to do so.”
V
The Power in Synergy: Not competing but complimenting
“A partnership is entered into because of the synergy which one expects to gain from the relationship. The twain or many shall become one and the benefits are expected to be greater than the sum of the benefits which would accrue from each of the partners on their own.” - Dr. Basil SpringerBarbadian business consultant and newspaper columnist.
MANY OF MY GENERATION would have been socialized to be focused on individual performance. This would have resulted in intense competition in our homes, school, and on the playground. However, we are encouraged by the evolution of our society to be more embracing of the opportunities to foster partnerships and to benefit from the synergies created and sustained through our efforts at complimenting each other rather than competing with each other.
In an increasingly competitive world, where individuals and organizations are encouraged to outperform each other, the transformative power of synergy is often disregarded. Synergy engenders the concept that the combined effect of a partnership or group accomplishes more than the sum of its parts. It beckons us to shift our mindset from competition to collaboration. The concept emerges that we can achieve more by working together than if we had chosen the option to go it alone. It unearths the truism that combining forces for a common good can be more beneficial than focusing on competing. As the saying goes, “No one of us is as good as all of us.” Foundational to this approach is the realization that no one has a monopoly on knowledge or wisdom and that the best of ideas can emerge from the collaborations among participants with varying talents, abilities, experiences, and intellect.
The more progressive leadership in many of our business places and government departments have embraced this approach to encourage greater collaboration among their respective workforces in an effort to improve effectiveness and efficiencies. While there may be some early teething problems with such an approach, the benefits of pooling ideas, strengths, and perspectives often result in greater appreciation and trust among the group members. Working together under such conditions can enhance bonding and foster mutual respect. This is especially so when the organisation culture provides for regular affirmations of team members who recognize and compliment their colleagues for the outstanding skills and attitudes displayed.
Nature provides us with valuable examples of the benefits of collaboration and synergistic relationships. For example, every organism plays a valuable role in an ecosystem. The trees provide oxygen and shelter, bees and other insects extract nectar from the flowering plants and, in doing so, assist with pollination and fruit-bearing. Termites and fungi assist in the decomposition of fallen trees and generate valuable organic material to enrich the soil. That soil provides rich nutrients for the germination of seedlings that grow to become trees … and the cycle is repeated. They do not compete with each other; they are part of an intricate, harmonising system that flourishes as a result of their interdependence. Similar examples can
be highlighted in the realm of music, education, and business. We can build stronger, more progressive, organisations when we commit to following best practices in relation to fostering synergies in our homes, neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces, and churches.
Within recent times the idea of complementing rather than competing has been gaining traction in the business world. While some business leaders have retained some degree of mistrust and scepticism in relation to engaging in collaborative efforts, many have observed the benefits of encouraging synergistic relationships all along the value chain. Partnerships have been fostered even among competing firms as efforts are made to reduce cost and improve efficiencies. However, such unions should not be entered into recklessly. Every effort must be made to ensure that the participating entities are focused on win-win synergies; the benefits must be mutual if the relationship is to last. The advantages of such co-operative efforts can be observed throughout many of the capitals in our Caribbean nations as businesses compete for customers but join forces to engage in joint purchases of raw materials and products knowing that doing so will be mutually beneficial.
The positive impact of synergies can also be observed on a personal level. In families, friendships, and teams, recognizing and appreciating each other’s talents and abilities and using these to pursue a common goal can enhance the possibilities of individual and collective success. It often takes a resetting of the mind to get individuals to avoid the temptation to seek to outdo each other. Keeping the ego in check is of paramount importance if we are to maximize the power of synergy; it calls for humility and maturity. Such cooperative efforts allow us to acknowledge and benefit from someone else’s strength noting that, in doing so, it does not diminish our own. True synergy is about maximizing cooperative effort and about building together.
The power in synergy revolves around the understanding and appreciation that we do not have to do everything or be everything. Unified effort and combined energy will result in the better harvesting of ideas. We become stronger, wiser, and more accomplished when we work together. In addition, our cooperative efforts provide greater opportunities for the transfer of knowledge and skills. Those individuals who pause to share discover that such activities provide numerous growth opportunities for others and self.
Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922), the Scottish-born Canadian American inventor, scientist, and engineer who is credited with patenting the first practical telephone, reminds us that, “Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the cooperation of many minds.”
Palestine and our shameless world
EHUD OLMERT,a former Israeli prime minister (2006 to 2009) and renowned war criminal who should be serving time in the Hague (home of the International Criminal Court) for crimes against humanity, wrote a stinging op-ed piece last week that labelled what Israel is doing in Gaza as a war crime.
Olmert, whose Mea Culpa came days before his 80th birthday, probably stems from frantic musings on how he would spend eternity, coined the term ‘haircut’ to describe Israel’s past military incursions into Gaza that claimed thousands of Palestinian lives.
He often asserted that Israel was not committing war crimes in Gaza and claimed with conviction that ‘in no case did a government official give orders to hit Gazan civilians indiscriminately.’
‘However, in recent weeks, I’ve been no longer able to do so. What we are doing in Gaza now is a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians. It’s the result of government policy — knowingly, evilly, maliciously, irresponsibly dictated.’
Olmert asserted that ‘the government of Israel is currently waging a war without purpose, without goals or clear planning and with no chances of success’ in which ‘thousands of innocent Palestinians are being killed.’
Olmert lamented that the ‘pointless victims among the Palestinian population’ were reaching ‘monstrous proportions.’ He claimed that ‘the criminal gang headed by Benjamin Netanyahu has set a precedent without equal in Israel’s history.’
Olmert, a member of Netanyahu’s Likud party, said ‘Never since its establishment has the state of Israel waged such a war. Recent operations in Gaza have nothing to do with legitimate war goals,’ he wrote. ‘This is now a private political war. Its immediate result is the transformation of Gaza into a humanitarian disaster area.’
Speaking to the BBC, Olmert described the conflict as a war without a purpose — a war without a chance of achieving anything that can save the lives of the hostages. Yes, Israel is committing war crimes’ was his damning conclusion.
Olmert’s comments followed those of Yair Golan, a former deputy chief of staff of the Israeli army, who declared last week that ‘a sane country does not fight against civilians, does not kill babies as a hobby, and does not give itself the aim of expelling populations.’
Olmert and Golan have admitted what many have been saying since Israel began its genocidal assault on Gaza following the heroic and legitimate October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by the Palestinian resistance. The 1960 United Nations declaration against colonialism not only calls for the independence of all colonial territories but also grants those suffering under colonial domination the right to resist by force of arms. Importantly, the declaration also does not grant a colonial power the right to defend itself in colonial territory.
On October 14, 2023, Yaav Galant told the world that Israel was going to turn Gaza into a living hell. Gallant said then that all food, water, electricity and communications will be cut off from Gaza. The Netanyahu regime, which Elmert aptly described as a criminal gang, has destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, mosques and other crucial infrastructure that sustains life.
Moreover, Israel’s disregard for life was channelled very early when Gallant described the Palestinians as ‘human animals.’ It will be remembered that a spokesman for Israel’s military declared that his government was primarily concerned
with ‘maximum damage with less concern for accuracy,’
As a result, over 52 thousand Palestinians have been confirmed dead. Thousands more may be covered under the rubble across Gaza. A recent United Nations survey stated that it will take approximately 10 years to clear the damaged buildings and an estimated $30 billion to rebuild.
And Israel is not done. Since March 11, it has tightened its murderous grip on Gaza. It has blocked all humanitarian aid, including that provided by the United Nations. It has arrogated to itself the authority to decide who gets food and water and who dies–thousands of Palestinians now on the brink of starvation. Many more are malnourished and are increasingly susceptible to opportunistic diseases.
Who is responsible for this 21stcentury live-streamed genocide? Note that in recent days, some Western leaders, including the UK’s Starmer, Germany’s Merz, the EU’s chief bureaucrats, France’s Macron, and certain news outlets, have all made tepid criticisms of Netanyahu’s regime.
Don’t be fooled. Crocodile tears!
But make no mistake. As former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis has repeatedly said, the leaders in the USA and Europe are the main culprits/criminals responsible for the continuing genocide in Gaza.
Ta-Nihisi Coates, the brilliant African American writer whose recent book, The Message contains a reasoned and damning indictment of Israel’s apartheid regime said ‘none of this should have happened. There are powerful people who could have stopped this. But white, influential world leaders allowed it to happen.’ They are not concerned about Genocide. Some of the wildest antiSemites support Israel’s right to exist. As Caitlyn Johnstone said ‘as long as Jews are supplanted from Europe and America, the historical hotbeds of antisemitism and racism and placed on stolen Palestinian lands and made to fight Arabs and Muslims, Europe and America, will be quite pleased.
There is no better proof of this view than the muted response and lack of outrage that emanate from European and American seats of power. Israel’s social security minister claims, ‘to be exact, there are innocents in Gaza - 58 of them referring to the 58 Israeli detainees held by the Palestinian resistance.
The fascistic finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, who previously advocated dropping a nuclear bomb on Gaza, said Israel is ‘destroying everything that’s left of the Gaza Strip. We are conquering, cleansing and remaining in Gaza until Hamas is destroyed.’
Last week, the Israeli demonic politician Moshe Feiglin told the world, ‘The enemy is not Hamas, nor is it the military wing of Hamas. Every child in Gaza is the enemy. We need to occupy Gaza and settle it, and not a single Gazan child will be left there. There is no other victory.’
No other country or leader in the world could speak in such vile and bellicose terms and get away with it. Israel is a cancerous leper in the West Asia and a stain on the world’s conscience. Those responsible for Israel’s sordid attempt at the erasure of Palestinians must be brought to heel.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosangagmail.com
Reflections on the development and leadership of SVG over the last 50 years
IT IS PALPABLYevident that this beautiful land of ours is not at the ‘place’ we had hoped to be after almost fifty years of managing our own lives. A frank conclusion must be that our leaders have failed us miserably. Those who came forward offering their services in the management of the people’s business have distinctly exhibited that they were not of the maturity of spirit needed for that sacred function.
What seems to have drawn them was their desire to enjoy the privilege of exercising the power which the colonialists had command of over those years.
Made to feel like criminals
And so it was, that in 1975 our teachers, who had for decades been some of our most prominent players in our traditional societal cohesiveness, were treated as expendable criminals because
they considered that it was necessary for them to demonstrate peacefully, in relation to what they regarded as a treatment of indifference by the authorities. What a distinctly sad beginning to the governance of a country whose constitution had declared it to be “a democracy”, founded on the belief in “the supremacy of God the Creator and the freedom and dignity of man”.
Armed policemen aggressively confronted the peaceful demonstrators with tear gas, made several arrests, and placed them in unhygienic cells. The wicked treatment of Mrs. Yvonne Francis-Gibson still haunts this society. She had always endeavoured to make a positive contribution wherever she resided, but she was thrown in a fecally smeared cell. That tear gas attack by the police that day resulted in the death of a young boy, who was hit by one of the tear gas canisters. That
family is still pained today! He was an intelligent student who seemed on course to develop to be an intellectually mature individual. Today, he would have been over sixty years old and could well have developed to be the patriarch of a strong family, distinctly qualified and sincerely committed to the well-being of our society, helping us to extricate ourselves from the socioeconomic morass into which we have been led over the last decades.
Every mature Vincentian should now recognise that it is imperative that we endeavour to address with urgency the many societally debilitating issues that have been confronting us for some time now. Several months ago the Prime Minister had been appealing to citizens to contribute to effecting what he called, the “Respair”, but I have not as yet seen any
evidence, that a comprehensive plan of action had been put in place by Dr. Gonsalves and his team, to effect the declared “Respair” programme. Little wonder, then, that ULP has grown to be accepted to represent “Untrustworthy Loquacious People”.
Our intellectuals must guide
I have been, for some time, making the point that we need more of our intellectuals to endeavour to guide our society’s development, so that the people could have the reasonable hope to prosper in a peaceful environment, where justice prevails. Those who have the ‘light’ must lead the way. There are issues crying for clarity in this land.
In THE VINCENTIAN of May 18th, 2025, in an article captioned “SVG’s economy on the upswing” authored by the Unity Labour Party, it generally paints the picture that St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is doing well presently, and that the World Bank said that SVG will see real economic growth of 4.5% this year.
There is mention of the strengthening of food security, recovery and consolidation in agriculture and fisheries. The reality in the supermarkets, reflecting the high-scale importation of vegetables we once exported and the agonizing cries from our farmers and fisherfolk these days, tells a different story. And what about the roads that were to be urgently repaired as was promised in 2001? How can there be food security when farmers cannot get to their lands? Are the World Bank authorities familiar with the crippling circumstances with which the farmers have been faced over these several decades?
The article identified “Banking and financial stability” as a commendable element in this upswing. Was there evidence of this in the support for the agricultural and fishing sectors?
It is imperative that a proper survey be done, so that the realities of the circumstances prevailing in our land can be authentically determined. The leaders of this predominantly Africanoriented society, the political, the intellectual and the spiritual leaders, should see it as their sacred duty to pursue
this mission with determination.
Spiritual Baptists’ strength
Finding It should not be considered impertinent to remind us all, that the Spiritual Baptists who have been recently honoured with having a holiday named after them, have for well over one hundred years been the prominent religious organization in this land, endeavouring to live their lives reflective of their submission to Jehovah the Creator’s authority. They are still predominantly of African ethnic orientation, and the history of their sufferings, about the curtailment of their freedom to worship openly, even after the abolition of slavery, is historically documented.
They were not allowed to have their religious gatherings in the residential areas, and so they had to build their meeting houses in the hills. Even under those adverse conditions, that religious body continued to play a strong role in societal cohesiveness in the rural villages, where their leaders were well respected by the communities.
It is worth noting that the journey to the Baptists’ meeting places in the hills was eased somewhat because the administrators were very dependable in those years in maintaining the roads to the farms. We must never forget that more than seventy per cent of the labour used on the farms up to a few decades ago, when we were a strong agricultural community, was provided by persons of Spiritual Baptist connection. I am inclined to the view that, given the naked disregard we have been showing, relative to the celebrating of the once almost sacred “May Day”, and the distinct indifference to the marking of International Democracy Day, the fervor that was exhibited this month, as we celebrated the respect shown to the resilient Spiritual Baptist community, with the declaration of a national holiday in their name, that candle might not be strong enough to hold a respectfully recognizable flame five years from now.
LeRoy Providence
Keith Boyea
Hairoun celebrates 40
ST. VINCENT BREWERY LIMITED(SVBL) produced its first beer, aptly called Hairoun, on May 21, 1985.
Like everything in life, the Brewery, which has woven itself into an indelible place in the cultural, economic tapestry of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has seen its fair share of ebbs and flows but has stood stoically through 40 years to maintain production and expansion.
The Brewery’s Country Manager, Shafia London-Williams, at the occasion of a 40th birthday gathering at the Brewery compound at Campden Park on May 22, described the St. Vincent Brewery Limited as a trail blazer, as it related to entrepreneurial activities here.
She traced the institution’s record and projected on future operations.
And even as she expressed how happy she was with the birthday celebration, she hastened to praise the staff for their dedication to the institution, and almost in the same breath, highlighted the “patience” of the Inland Revenue Department
(IRD) at times. She also thanked shareholders for their support.
London reflected on “low” cash flow at times and having to juggle bills. Even at times with morale low, workers turned up for work, “kept the standard high,” and the “bottles flowing.” No worker was ever laid off.
With much confidence she proclaimed, “We stand transformed,” and assured that “there is growth at the Brewery,” as she referenced the Brewery’s acquisition by KOSCAB Holdings Ltd, the parent company of KOSCAB (St. Kitts) Ltd and the Coca-Cola Company’s main bottling and distribution partner in the southern Caribbean.
Hairoun: tried and tested
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves also addressed the gathering and asserted that the St. Vincent Brewery “has stood the test of time.”
He tagged his comments to “challenges” faced by small companies producing goods within CARICOM. He alluded to a potential rift which surfaced as a result of a beer clash on the market.
of BMC Agencies was among SVBL product distributors who were recognized for their essential role in ensuring the stability and feasibility of the
For Gonsalves there has to be a method of “give and take.” As regards to London’s reference to the IRD’s patience, the Vincentian Prime Minister described it as “forbearance.”
He is pleased that complaints which reeked over the scent from
works at the Brewery have stopped.
There is room for more money and equipment, and with that in mind Dr. Gonsalves said, “We welcome investors, “local, regional and international.” He emphasized there were “no advantages for
international investors.”
Yes, there are concessions but equally, he does the “limbo” to facilitate locals.
“You can rely on the government to be in your corner,” the Prime Minister assured. (WKA)
It was, as expected, a happy occasion for the workers of the Brewery, who came in for high praise for their dedication.
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and the Brewery’s Country Manager- Shafia LondonWilliams, locked in discussion about Hairoun Beer 40th anniversary label.
(right)
Brewery.
Vincymas V
Vincy Mas 2025 launch in NY
Story and photos by NELSON
A.
KING US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net
VINCENTIANS IN NEW
YORK on Sunday, May 18, got a sample of what is in store for Vincymas 2025, as the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), partnering with the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, launched the national festival in Brooklyn amid much fanfare.
Vincymas 2025 will begin on Friday, Jun. 27, and culminate on Tuesday, Jul. 8, 2025.
In picture-perfect weather, hundreds of nationals were captivated on Sunday by the sights, sounds and pageantry of Vincentian culture at the huge parking lot of Nazareth Regional High School, 475 East, 57th Street, Brooklyn.
The near five-hourlong show, under the auspices of the Consulate General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United States, encompassed, among other things, masquerade; spoken word by Toni Johnson; DJ and steelpan music; and calypso, ragga soca and soca music.
Problem Child brought the house down with spell-binding performances, while other artistes contributed immensely in putting the effervescent crowd in party frenzy.
They included Dennis Bowman, Lively, Oscar James, Smurf, Added Rankin, Jay R the Artiste, Zoelah, Fimba, Skarpyon, Super K, Ram, Zeek and Kemmy.
Siboney Tannis Hector and Travis Roberts beat out Vincy and Caribbean vibes on pan; Mas Productions Unlimited previewed “Changes” for West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) Parade on Labor Day Monday in
Brooklyn; Nowadazz’s Promotions, Inc., produced by calypsonian Delahanty Isles, showcased “Waybaccwen”; and Thick Madam Productions highlighted mas to be featured by Mirage Productions in Vincymas 2025.
Isles told THE VINCENTIAN that the idea for ‘Waybaccwen” for J’Ouvert, under the theme, “De Rebirth of Culture”, emerged two years ago but only “manifested” last July.
She said that was because of the loss of her mom, Maxine Phillips, at 60.
“It’s a bitter-sweet moment because she was a woman of culture,” said Isles, who offered the ceremony’s opening prayer. “I still have the strength to go forward.
Ricardo “Ricky” Adams, CDC president, who was on hand Sunday, along with CEO Rodney Small, said: “I think we have a new energy for Vincy Mas this year.
“It’s important to have a successful launch in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (two weeks ago) and to engage the Vincy Community (in the Diaspora),” he told THE VINCENTIAN back stage. “We hope to bring back the energy that’s Vincy Mas 2025 — both at home and in the Diaspora.
“I just want people to come home and experience the resurgence of Vincy Mas,” he added.
Small, a renowned pannist, who was recently appointed CDC CEO, also told THE VINCENTIAN: “It’s really a great feeling when we can bring the Vincentian product to different parts of the world.
“It’s really a nice
family affair,” he added about Sunday’s launch.
“I see people from different Caribbean countries.”
Small disclosed that CDC will also be promoting this year Vincy Mas during Caribbean Carnival (Caribana) in Toronto, Canada and at Notting Hill Carnival in London, UK.
Sherrill-Ann Mason Haywood, chairperson of the SVG Diaspora Committee of New York, said her group was “pleased to partner with
the CDC in a deeper way this year,” stating that the relationship “goes back almost a decade when Ainsley Primus was planning to return to SVG and wanted an entity to take over the Vincymas launch in New York, which, at the time, was anchored by a calypso new song competition.
“Since then, it has evolved into a familyfriendly event that highlights the main components of carnival: pan, calypso and mas,” she told THE VINCENTIAN. “It was
always an event to give Diasporans a taste of Vincymas with some support from the CDC….. The goal was to replicate in New York the event dubbed ‘START’ that launched the carnival in SVG.
Consul General Rondy “Luta” McIntosh, also a soca artiste, said, “Vincy Mas START was off to another good START at the NYC Vincy Mas launch in Brooklyn.
“It must be mentioned that all artistes, DJ’s, promoters and creatives who participated at the launch are all US-based Vincy talents and donated their talents free of cost,” he said. “This is a true representation of patriotism and love for SVG.
Etienne DaSilva at Vincymas START welcome banner.
Left: Zoelah, Queen of Soca, mesmerizes.
Consul General Rondy “Luta” McIntosh, center, with CDC Chairman Ricardo “Ricky” Adams, left, and CEO Rodney Small.
Problem Child brings the house down with
Masquerade sisters Aaliyah Brackin, left, and Alyssa Brackin from Brooklyn-based Thick Madam Promotions.
Investment overture to Vincy-US Diaspora
to Toronto, Canada, and London, United Kingdom.
Story and photos by NELSON A. KING
US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net
A DELEGATION OF GOVERNMENT and quasi-government officials on Saturday, May 17, fervently sought to persuade nationals in the New York Metropolitan area to invest more in their homeland.
The near four-hour-long, forum-style event — organized by the governmental agency Invest SVG and chaired by the agency’s Investment Facilitation Services Manager Shanna Browne-Jacobs — took place at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge.
The forum was the culmination of Invest SVG’s three-country promotional tour that also took the delegation
Besides officials from Invest SVG, attendees heard presentations from Minister of National Mobilization, Social Development, Family, Gender Affairs and Persons with Disabilities Keisal Peters; Consul General to the United States Rondy “Luta” McIntosh; Director of the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit (RIDU) Allan Alexander; Relationship Banking Manager of Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Patricia John; and Caribbean Digital Transformation Project Representative Jennifer Richardson. Other speakers included General Manager of National Properties Limited Hans King and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Sandy Peters-Phillips.
“It is with a deep sense of purpose and national pride that I join you today for this important forum hosted by Invest SVG, under the profoundly resonant theme, ‘Home is Where the Heart Is’,” said Peters in delivering the featured address. “This forum is more than a conversation–it is a call to action; a bridge between where you are and where your heart will always belong: St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“The idea that ‘home is where the heart is’ reminds us that, while we may live and work in distant lands, our
connections to home remain strong, rooted in memory, identity and a shared vision for the future of our beloved country,” she added. “Today, I stand before you not just to speak about investment opportunities, but to invite you–our Diaspora–to reimagine your role in national development, and to reaffirm the essential truth that your contribution is vital to our nation’s progress.”
The minister noted that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is “a land of resilience, creativity and possibility”, stating that the country is “blessed with fertile lands, unmatched natural beauty, and a population driven by determination and innovation.”
She said these attributes are “the foundation of several sectors that are ripe for sustainable investment–sectors where your expertise, capital and global exposure can make a tangible difference.”
Peters said the country offers a range of government incentives for investors, including tax holidays, dutyfree concessions and support for start-ups.
She said the nation has also demonstrated political stability, legal protections for investors and a commitment to sustainable development.
“As a Vincentian, you bring both capital and cultural insight–an unbeatable combination in any business environment,” said Peters, stating that investment opportunities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines span a range of traditional and emerging sectors, driven by the country’s natural resources, strategic location, stable governance and expanding infrastructure.
She said St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a growing tourism destination, especially for eco-luxury and yacht tourism, and that the call to invest is not being made in isolation.
“It is backed by our national Diaspora policy–a framework designed to strengthen and institutionalize our engagement with Vincentians abroad,” Peters said. “This policy
recognizes the Diaspora not as outsiders but as vital partners in national development.
“It is about more than remittances; it is about relationships, knowledge exchange, and long-term collaboration,” she added, pointing out that Invest SVG plays a key role in this process — “helping to streamline the path to investment with dedicated support, facilitation services and project guidance.
“You are not alone on this journey–and we are committed to ensuring that your investment is not only impactful but also rewarding,” Peters assured. “By investing in SVG, you help create jobs, strengthen communities, and reduce dependence on remittances.
“Your investments can empower youth, support education, expand infrastructure, and promote innovation,” she continued.
“It’s not just about profits–it’s about leaving a legacy of empowerment and progress for your people.”
Peters said the time to invest in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in “now.”
McIntosh said: “What we’re witnessing here is a firm commitment from our
Vincentian-American Abigail Timm, a licensed real estate broker in the State of New York, who’s selling Petit Nevis, off the coast of Bequia, and Salt Whistle Bay in Mayreau — both in the St. Vincent Grenadines — offers investment advice.
government — to remind you that you’re not forgotten.
“St. Vincent and the Grenadines is beaming with development,” he said. “It is the place where foreign investors are running.”
Minister of National Mobilization, Social Development, Family, Gender Affairs and Persons with Disabilities Keisal Peters delivers featured address.
Section of audience listening attentively to the forum-style event.
Another section of audience, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Sandy Peters-Phillips (front right).
SVG Consul General to the United States Rondy “Luta” McIntosh addresses forum.
Adhere to legal firearm storage
Adhere to legal firearm storage
COMMISSIONER OF POLICE (AG.)
Enville Williams is reminding holders of licensed firearms to adhere to the rules and regulations pertaining to the storage of a firearm when not in use.
The Acting CoP made the comment one day after police were summoned to a house in Lauders, where they discovered the body of 19-year-old Zachary Harry in a bedroom with what looked like a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to the police, Harry’s lifeless body was discovered lying face down on the floor, with a firearm near his right hand. There were indications of injuries to his head.
And Acting CoP Williams confirmed that the firearm in question was a licensed firearm.
“There is a procedure where licensed firearms are concerned when they are not on your person,”
the CoP said.
He did not provide any detailed information about the incident but emphasized the point that licensed firearm holders must adhere to the regulations as it relates to the safety of storing a firearm.
“The rules are there for a reason and we must try to abide by these rules,” Williams urged.
Meanwhile, in the case of Harry’s death, no foul play is suspected but investigations are ongoing, said acting CoP Williams. (DD)
King murder investigation ongoing
ASSISTANT
COMMISSIONER OF POLICE (ACP)with responsibility for crime, Trevor Bailey has confirmed that the investigation into Stephen King’s shooting death was “progressing nicely.”
He said as much during a media briefing hosted by the Police, called specifically to provide the media with an update on the investigation into the killing of businessman
Stephen King operated a retail business specializing in household and commercial equipment.
Stephen ‘Steve’ King, who was gunned down at his home in Green Hill on May 13, and three persons who suffered the same fate in Belmont on May 26.
“The family (King) can rest assured that we will do a thorough investigation into the matter,” ACP Bailey said.
He noted that the team that was put together to investigate the triple homicide in Belmont that occurred on May 16, was the same team working on King’s case.
The senior cop did not say anything further about the case, except when asked, he denied any knowledge about whether shopkeeper and trafficker Lesline Davis, one of the three killed in the Belmont shooting, was King’s business partner or that they simply knew one another.
King was shot and killed around midday when masked men entered his home and opened fire, shooting him multiple times about his body.
He was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he later died.
And in the other incident, Davis was one of three persons shot and killed at her business place in Belmont around 8:30 p.m. on May 16. (DD)
Enville Williams, Acting Commissioner of Police, made an appeal for adherence to the rule governing the storage of licensed firearms.
Hope FC scores ÂGoals for LifeÊ
THE
30-YEAR-OLD HOPE
INTERNATIONAL Football
Club demonstrated a
The facilities at the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre took on a whole new look in 2018.
commitment to football development beyond the field of play, by conducting a ten-week training programme with the complement of young boys
at the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre (LLBTC). The programme focused on improving the boys’ football skills, physical fitness, teamwork and personal development. It also gave the students an insight into structured training, provided mentorship and featured team-building activities.
Staged at the Green Hill Playing Field on Saturdays, the ten-week programme which was held under the theme: ‘Goals for Life: Empowering through Football’, concluded last Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Comsports Facility, Arnos Vale.
A friendly SevenA—Side match between the LLBTC and Hope International FC Under15 select team, a closing ceremony dotted by a few speeches, the distribution of certificates, medals and trophies to stand outs, officially closed the initiative.
Welcoming the effort by Hope FC, Social Worker attached to the LLBTC- Janeil George, was high in praise for the initiative and the general outcome of the ten weeks of exposure.
“We are really thankful for Hope International for coming out and giving back to our boy. …. Overall, the entire programme was welcoming for the boys. Football is a sport that they all love and enjoy. It helped in areas such as their teamwork, camaraderie”, George commented.
George is encouraged by the interest and commitment of the Hope International personnel and the reception of the boys, and looks forward eagerly to some continuity and follow ups.
“We have had talks of continuing at some point, but I am hoping that they can continue in the area of mentoring, because our boys need that encouragement”, the Social Worker projected.
Meanwhile, Head Coach of the programme, former national footballer- Tyrone Prince, found the interaction with the boys rewarding.
Janeil George, Social Worker attached to the LLBTC is hopeful that there will be follow-ups to the Hope International initiative.
Tyrone Prince, lead facilitator of the Hope International initiative was pleased with the ready and open response from the boys.
Prince underscored that he has become attached to the boys given the way they developed over the two months and a half.
The Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre commenced operations in 1969. It is a residential care facility which provides a caring environment for boys 716 years old, who are faced by familial, educational, social, emotional and behavioural challenges which work against them becoming responsible and productive citizens.
“The programme was very good. The boys were enthusiastic; they were willing to learn. They were always eager, even when it rained. They did not want to miss a session, and there were improvements in their skill level”, Prince related.
ÂWhizzyÊ at it again!!!
KEN ‘WHIZZY’ WISEMAN
completed his contribution for Vincymas 2025 with a second release entitled ‘All Is Yours’.
‘All Is Yours’ is already being aired on radio, YouTube and Facebook, and will be available for downloads as of this weekend, May 31, 2025.
From all reports, ‘All Is Yours’ is already making giant strides on radio and social media platforms.
‘Whizzy’ earlier released ‘Queen’, the first of his contribution for Vincymas 2025.
All being equal, ‘Whizzy’ will be home for Vincymas 2025 and intends to compete in the Ragga Soca Competition with ‘All Is Yours’.
Ken ‘Whizzy’ Wiseman released ‘All Is Yours, his second contribution for Vincymas 2025.
He will also be performing live at other shows and events, including Carnival Escape. Fans of the veteran performing and
recording artiste can look forward to year round releases, in various genres.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Your communication skills may win you points. Beware of someone who is trying to make you look bad. Don't volunteer private information about yourself unless you're prepared to be talked about behind your back. Deceit with co-workers is apparent.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Unfortunately, your personal life may suffer from a lack spare time. Your mind will be wandering to exotic destinations. Education may be the answer. Secret affairs may only cause complications in your life.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Try to avoid being extravagant this week. Don't blow situations out of proportion. You may have been trying to do too much, leaving yourself exhausted and open to colds and infections. You will have the ability to capture the interest of others.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Friends from your past may come back into your life. Don't forget that your budget is limited right now. You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal. Your ability to charm others will put you in the limelight at social functions.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
You may be likely to have difficulties with females. Finish off old projects before starting something new. Pleasure trips will induce exciting and passion ate encounters with those of foreign extraction. Difficulties with your mate may lead to estrangement.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Your business sense will be leading you in a direction that indicates more travel and communication. You will do your best work on your own. You should be making plans to spend some time with the ones you love. Problems with skin, bones, or teeth may mess up your schedule.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Opposition is present and you should be prepared to counteract it as best you can. You may want to look into warm vacation spots. You will be emotional about your personal life. Use discrimination and play hard to get.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Avoid any confrontations with colleagues. Try to make arrangements with close friends or relatives to spend a few days away. You may have a rather hectic day due to events that children are involved in. Deception is apparent.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You will be able to talk to your lover about future goals and perhaps make plans for the two of you to take a vacation. Be aware that minor accidents or injury may prevail if you are preoccupied. Jealousy may get in the way of a good relationship. Lack of funds may add stress to your already uncertain situation.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Double check your work and be sure that your boss is in a good mood before you do your presentation. Curl up with a good book or go for a drive in the country. You may have difficulties with foreigners. Curb any jealous fits if your partner has been flirting with someone else.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
You may find it impossible to get the rest you require. Romance appears. You will be on the rampage this week. You should be putting your cash into longterm investments like real estate.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Love and romance are evident. You can help sort out problems that friends are facing. You may find that your family responsibilities are piling up. Praise will be yours if you have been pursuing your goals.
ACROSS
1.Boss’s impatient (abbr.)
5. “Tarzan” movie sound 9. “Oz” aunt et al.
12. __ Agatha Christie 13. __ Domini 14. Teacher’s group (abbr.) 15. Ferry dock 16. Walt Kelly comic 17. Court’s __ order 18. __ Lanka 20. Internet messages (hyph.) 22. Refused 25. One Redgrave 26. Extreme anger 27. Aged 29. tone-__ 32. Like mayonnaise 34. Yelp 36. Shout 37. Aria
38. Morse Code entry
40. __ Grande 41. Shade
sources 44. Decent
46. Sport coast
48. Author Follett
49. Guess at a price (abbr.)
50. Make a motion 52. Jack’s partner 56. Go pountfor-point
56. “Don’t bet __!” (2 wds.) 58. Garfield’s canine Ffriend 59. Unhappy 60. They’re blue on most maps 61. Food inspection Initials DOWN
1.Public notices
2. Baseball’s Maglie 3. French friend 4. Coca Cola Competitor 5. Swiftly 6. Yoko __
Locomotive drivers
Repast
Bacomes droopy
Antique car
“The __ Griffith Show” 22. Quits, as a battery
Therefore 24. Overlooked
Father 30. Returned to earth 31. Floating ice mass 33. Part of an egg
Wallet
Misleading “to-be” wife
Dear George,
MY BEST FRIENDis about to get married in two months. His bride has shared some shocking news with me, and now I am in a dilemma of deciding whether I should divulge the information to him or just keep quiet.
She told me she does not really want to marry my friend but has her eyes on me instead. I blew up on her for misleading my friend. She insisted she could not be stuck with a man who’s poor in bed and who has no college education. I see a woman who has used my friend.
Should I stay clear of it all and leave him to find things out on his own?
Cautious Friend.
Dear Cautious Friend,
You have a moral obligation to your friend to steer him away from anything that would bring him harm emotionally or otherwise. You know that this woman is bad news for your friend, and you need to tell him if she is unwilling to do so.
Give her a timeline to come clean with him. Failing to keep that deadline, then it means you will have to be the bearer of bad news. Let the chip fall where they will.
George.
A dishonest cousin
Dear George,
MY COUSINhas vowed to hate me for the rest of her life because I squealed on her.
A cousin of ours has been sending money home to this cousin for her to repair his house. He is living in the Virgin Islands.
Instead of putting the money to do my cousin’s bidding, she has been lavishing it on her boyfriend — giving him “loans” and going on trips together.
When my cousin spoke to me recently, he was
excited about hearing about his house. I had to tell him the truth. He is not sure what to do about the situation but what I do know he is not planning on leaving it like that. George, my cousin is an ignorant man and I’m afraid of what he might do if he does not get his money back.
Very Concerned.
Dear Very Concerned,
You have done your cousin a huge favour by enlightening him about the situation. Hopefully
he would have put in place an agreement between both of them to use his funds for the purpose of renovating his house.
I strongly suggest that he seeks legal advice on how to proceed. In the meantime, try to convince him not to take matters into his own hands. Hopefully, there would be a satisfactory solution to all of this.
And I am sure you can handle being hated by that dishonest cousin for doing the right thing.
George.
Refuse to be tested
Dear George,
AFTER THREEmonths of dating my boyfriend and I have hit an impasse.
I have refused to have sex with him until we both get tested for STDs. He has a problem with that. He has accused me of not trusting him and has threatened to break off the relationship.
He has made this out to be a trust issue and presenting himself as the victim. I need your views on this.
Greatly Upset,
Dear Greatly Upset,
The fact that he is objecting so strongly to doing the right thing should send off alarm bells. Your suggestion of both of you getting tested is not a ridiculous one in any way.
He has every right to leave if he so chooses but as far as you are concerned, you are not wrong in your request. It is always better to be safe than to be sorry.
George.
14-year-old completes another solo sail
ON SATURDAY,May 24th, 14year-old sailor Kai Marks Dasent completed an impressive solo sail from his home St. Vincent to Union Island, covering 38.1 nautical miles (42.8 miles) in 6 hours and 3 minutes, with an average speed of 6.3 knots. Perfect conditions helped make the crossing smooth and successful.
Semi-Pro Football League imminent
THE THOUGHTof St. Vincent and the Grenadines having a semi-professional Football League is moving closer to becoming a reality.
Confirmation of this momentum came recently from President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF)Otashie Spring, who used the opportunity of speaking at the Closing Ceremony of Hope International’s “Goal For Life” Project, last Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Comsports Facility, Arnos Vale, to share his optimism.
Noting that it will be an “evolution” while not detailing specifics about the project, Spring advised all stakeholders to be at the ready.
“Not too long from now, the Football Federation would be embarking on a semi-pro initiative here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It will be the first of its kind and this is where people are going to earn for coaching, people are going to earn much more for officiating”, Spring informed.
The SVFFF President underscored that it was imperative that St Vincent and the Grenadines not be left
Otashie Spring, President of the SVGFF, spoke recently in very optimistic language about the launch of a semi-pro football league in SVG.
out of the global trend.
“This is all in alignment to the evolution. The way Football is going globally, it is actually calling for that and we are being dragged along … we have to man up and basically ensure that we are part of the time and not get left behind”.
Speaking directly to an audience that included young footballers from the Hope International Under-15 team and those from the Liberty Lodge Training Centre for Boys, Spring said, “Football as it stands now and going into the future is going to mean a whole lot for you as players, so I will encourage you and take your training more seriously”.
The intention of having a semiprofessional Football League here in St Vincent and the Grenadines was announced October 27, 2024, when Prime Minister Dr Ralph E Gonsalves delivered his Independence Address at Victoria Park.
Reports are that the government will inject
close to EC$1 million, to add to inputs from the SVGFF and the private sector.
Indications are that systems are being put in place for the launch of the league to coincide with the start of the 2025/2026 National Club Championships.
This voyage wasn’t just a sailing milestone–it was a mission with heart. Kai set out to raise funds for students of the Union Island Secondary School affected by Hurricane Beryl, helping them pay for their CSEC exams. He’s also raising support for his sailing club, Vincy Sailing, to assist with costs related to competing in the Caribbean Dinghy Championships.
To support Kai’s fundraising efforts contribute to Republic Bank - account “Vincy Sailing”account number -200000164745. Account description- “Union Sail”. - ?Go fund me - https://gofund.me/f8647d7bemail: VincySailing@gmail.com
In preparation, Kai completed a challenging practice sail to Mustique the weekend before, navigating very rough waters over the Bequia Head, a notoriously tough stretch in the Grenadines.
Despite the challenges, there were highlights.
“The stretch between Bequia and Canouan was my favorite part,” Kai shared. “I got to surf the waves–it was an amazing feeling and reminded me why I love sailing.”
Kai began sailing at just 8 years old and dreams of one day representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines at the Olympic Games.
“This sail was tough but rewarding. I hope it not only raises the support we need but also inspires other young sailors in the region. (Source: SVG Sailing Association)
The young sailor arrives in JT Pro Centre, Union Island… another feat accomplished.
National Championship dates shifted
THE DATES FOR THE 2025 TASVG Wendell Hercules National (Athletics) Championships have been brought forward by a week to July 19 and 20.
The shift comes as a result of a clash between the original dates and that of another major event — the 2025 CBN/WINLOTT Windward Island School Games, schedule for St. Vincent and the Grenadines from July 26 to August 02.
According to TASVG, this year’s National Championships is
likely to see participation from overseas based Vincentian athletes.
This means, athletes of the calibre of 800m runners Shafiqua Maloney and Handal Roban, Long Jumper Uroy Ryan, 400m runner Amal Glasgow, Triple Jumper J’aivar Cato and others, could compete in front of a home crowd for the first time since leaving to go to schools in the USA and Jamaica.
The likelihood of seeing such athletes competing on the local track and field is heightened by a
new World Athletics stipulation in their ranking system. Athletes will no longer be required to meet qualification standards, but will instead be ranked according to their performances over the season.
Each country’s national championships will carry the most ranking points for athletes, wishing to participate at the World Championships in Tokyo, in September.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Photos Source: SVG Sailing Association
Kai Marks Dascent early in his sail off Bequia.
Below: Kai Marks Dascent enjoying the waves between Bequia and Canouan.
NADIRA MORGANwon the Women’s title, Jules Snagg the Men’s and Raffique Browne took the Masters, when the 2025 SVG
Squash 2025 titles get owners
National Squash Championships concluded on Friday, May 23, at the National Squash Centre, Paul’s Avenue. Morgan in a two-way sparring with Ciara George, outdid her opponent, 11/8, 9/11, 11/9, 11/8.
Snagg retained his Men’s title with a straight-sets defeat of 2024 Player of the Year Jayden George, 11/6, 11/6, 12/10 in an energysapping final.
Snagg’s journey to his seventh national title saw him disposing of
Aiden De Freitas 11/6, 11/6, 11/2 in the semifinals. This, after Snagg had received a bye.
George though, did not have the luxury of a bye and had to first get past Deron Lewis, 11/1, 11/3, 11/1.
He then made his youth count by sidestepping Othniel Bailey, 11/5, 5/11, 17/15, 11/7, before meeting Snagg in the title match.
Bailey ensured that he was rewarded, as he took third place, defeating De Freitas, 11/5, 11/7, 11/3 in the playoff.
Also in the Men’s segment, Sebastian Cyrus, who lost to De Freitas 4/11, 6/11, 11/2, 11/13 in the first round, overcame Lewis, 11/8, 4/11, 8/11, 8/11, 8/11, 12/10.
Cyrus thus finished fifth and Lewis, sixth.
And Raffique Browne navigated his way to the Masters title with four wins and a loss, moving up from his third position in 2024.
Browne defeated Mark Cyrus, 11/8, 7/11, 11/6, 11/6 and outdid Keith
Boyea, 11/5, 11/4, 11/6. He also swished Dominic Ross, 11/0, 11/0, 11/0 and stopped Nicholas Boyea, 11/5, 11/7, 11/5.
Browne’s lone blemish was versus Anthony De Freitas, losing 11/6, 8/11, 11/6, 6/11, 11/13.
Docking second in the Masters was Mark Cyrus and third was Anthony De Freitas.
Vincy swimmers splash at BASA
EIGHTEENVincentian
swimmers - eleven from the Black Sands Swim Squad (BSSS) and seven from the Blue Marlins
(BM), competed at the 33rd staging of the Barbados Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) Barbados Aquatic Centre, from May 22 to May 25, 2025.
Topping the performances among the Vincentians was Kione De Shong of BSSS, who secured eight gold medals.
De Shong, in the Boys 11 to 12 age group, won the 50m and 100m Butterfly, the 50m and 100m Freestyle, 50m and 100m Breaststroke, 50m Backstroke and the
The gold medals went along the eight personal bests that he accomplished in the four days of competition and his resetting of the national record in the 50m Backstroke.
Meanwhile, Kennice Greene, also of BSSS, swimming in the Girls 15 to 17, took gold in the 50m Butterfly. She added two silvers and three bronze medals to her winnings.
In addition, Greene set a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines mark in the 200m Individual Medley.
The other gold medallist was Eltonique Leonard of Black Sands, who took 100m Butterfly
Netball: Sion Hill tops again
FOR THE SECOND YEARin a row
2025, Sion Hill Sports Club One has won the Division Two League title of the Bank of SVG National Tournament.
Playing undefeated in the tournament, the Sion Hill unit rattled up seven uncomplicated wins.
Sion Hill’s journey began with a 4727 defeat of G-Spot Bar Simple Netters, followed by 58—32 trumping of Conroy Huggins Bagga United.
A 49-29 win over Caesar’s Real Estate Sans Souci and a 44-99 triumph on Nature Care SVG Netters continued their march to another successive hold on Division Two.
Not done, Sion Hill got the better of X-Ceed Sports Club Two, 49-40.
Sion Hill formalized the title with a 69-22 downing of Wendy’ Delight 3 J’s Valley Strikers, last Thursday, May 22.
Delighted in winning another national title, Michelle Wiseman-Sam, the person who has been instrumental in forging the team into a formidable unit, believed it was always on the
cards.
“We have been playing as a unit for some time, gaining experience along the way, whilst building up a strong camaraderie, hence, everything came together and here we are again Division Two League champions,” Wiseman—Sam claimed.
She quickly pointed out that the “core” of the team that won the Division Four League and Knock Out titles in 2018, is still “intact”.
Hungry for more success, WisemanSam disclosed that they have their eyes set on winning the Division Two Knock Out as well.
Meanwhile, DHL Mitres is on course to retain the Division One league crown. Apart from Division One and Two, the Tournament also includes Divisions Three and Four as well as the Male Division.
for
13 to 14.
Meanwhile, Blue Marlins’ Belle Adams won three silver and two bronze medals and set six personal best times in the Girls 11 to 12.
Likewise, Blue Marlins’ Hazen Dabriel in the Boys 15 to 17, won three silver, two bronze medals and had one personal best time.
In the process, he lowered the national times in the 200m and 400m Freestyle, as well as the 200m Individual Medley.
The championships began on May 19.
Hazen’s younger brother- Zane won a bronze, and established three personal best times, swimming in the Boys 8 and Under.
Rounding off the Vincentian medal list was another Blue Marlins swimmer- Zoey May, who copped a bronze, whilst setting five personal bests in the Girls 9 to 10.
The additional Black Sands Swim Squad representatives were Eltonte Leonard (Boys 15 and Over); Methuselah Mc Lean (Boys 8 and
Under); Ira Hadley (Girls 9-10); Kyle Dunbar (Boys 8 and Under); Clarice Drakes and Amelia De Vignes (Girls 9 -10); Benjamin Cyrus (Boys 13 -14) and Seth Byron (Boys 15 and Over). And, completing Blue Marlins’ representation were Raya Adams and Belle Adams, in the Girls 8 and Under and Girls 11-12, respectively; Skylar Byron (Girls 1112) and Tayeah St. Hillaire (Girls 13 -14).
Warner giving back through Basketball
From Page 26.
“When an agent came to my door and said I love the way you play, at first I taught because I was tall but he said no you seems like you were into it. I signed on as a pro and that’s where it all started,” Warner related.
Warner admitted, “I haven’t been
coming home for a while but I thought I could do some giving back programmes.”
In this regard she has joined with coaches Wayne Williams and Vasha Adams at the camp, in assisting young players to refine their fundamental skills, including ball handling, passing, dribbling and shooting.
200m Individual Medley.
Girls
She also had four bronze medals.
Successfully defended his Men’s title.
Nadira Morgan placed her name in the SVG Squash annals by winning the 2024 Women’s title.
Eltonique Leonard (left) and Kennice Greene also copped gold.
Kione De Shong of BSSS, who secured eight gold medals, was the most outstanding Vincentian swimmer.
Sion Hill - Division Two champs for another year.
Keacy Carty fueled by fumes
KEACY CARTY is responding to the crisis in the way he knows best by letting his bat do the talking. From St. Maarten, with perhaps one of smallest collection of residents, the Keacy Carty story could still surface as the tale from the mystic.
He has accomplished a great deal for himself, his entire nation, the Leewards, West Indies and cricket where ever it is followed.
If there is any doubt of his commitment, his innings last Sunday of 170 against Ireland was an emphatic statement.
The series was on the line, and prospects for the region could have been degraded.
Host Ireland won the first of the three match series. With quests for spots for the 2026 ODI World Cup top concern, any lapse could be critical for the West Indies.
Irish weather conditions have jolted many a West Indian cricketer time and again. Everyone knows how it goes, and it is proving ever so often.
The second match was abandoned because of rain. So it boiled down to a must win for West Indies in order to avoid a series defeat.
West Indies knocked up 352 for 8 in the second match. Carty notched up 102, but it was a Matthew Forde inferno which created the bigger stir. In all the heroics, nature held the balance. There were ominous signs that the unpredictable weather would be a factor in the decisive encounter. That’s when Carty took matters in his hand. He carved his way a spectacular 170, a phenomenal performance under any circumstances.
Like the Gods must have been pleased with Carty and enabled the West Indies to share the series.
By the time most people read this, the first of three matches with England would have been decided.
Carty watched from the sidelines as West Indies were dumped out of the World Cup. That failure along with other taken for granted appearances by the West Indies lit Carty’s flame.
The gravity with which Carty has assumed his mission is a sample of the passion that small islanders have for the sport.
Carty paid tribute in way to Vincentians who helped to keep the cricket flame burning in St Maarten. Job opportunities might have been their motivating factor with cricket as a form therapy.
Carty revealed the Vincentian input in an interview aired during the delay on Sunday. Little was there to not foresee that Carty would be Man of that Match and Series.
I have always harped on the absence of quality batsmen in the regional arena. Carty paid tribute to his father who plunged him into the deep end of cricket.
Caribbean youngsters seem to have that ‘spoil baby’ attitude’ where they think they can take short cuts to the top. The reality of life is proving that the laid-back attitude is not paying. Other cricketers can copy the Carty template and get on with some serious preparation.
Warner giving back through Basketball
VINCENTIANprofessional Basketball player (Tahesha) Verdine Warner, back home on a break from her stint in France, is spending time at a Basketball Camp in train at the New Montrose Basketball Facility.
The camp caters to boys and girls ages 20 years and under.
Now into her fourth year playing professionally in France, Warner has also had stints in the Czech Republic, Greece, Germany and Spain.
Warner, originally from Bottom Questelles, had her primary education at the Clare Valley Government and Lowmans Leeward Anglican Schools. She pursued her secondary education at the St. Joseph Convent Kingstown before migrating to the USA, where she continued her high school education before pursuing her college and University education, towards a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Shaw University.
Reflecting on her journey into basketball, she recalls, “It was through Wayne Williams I started playing basketball at age 14 years at the New Montrose Hardcourt, with my brother Joel Warner.
last four years.
“Williams was more passionate and wanted it more for me than I did. He was seeing what I wasn’t. While in the States, I was then encouraged by my coach to try out to go pro, but I still thought I wasn’t good enough.”
She continued playing, developing a true love for the sport and attended a basketball camp where she was spotted.
Continued on Page 25.
Lawrence making progress
athlete
Kyle Lawrence, currently enrolled at the South Plains College in Texas, USA, believes since arriving in his new environment, he has seen improvements both on the track and in his academic pursuit in Sports Management.
“On the track there was evident improvement regardless of the injuries and not being able to train properly which forced me out of competition for the indoors and outdoors events for three weeks. But after treatment and returning to the tract, I finished 14th overall for the America Junior Championships,” Lawrence updated.
He further stated, “I saw improvement mostly in the execution of my race. When I arrived, one of the first things coach Jim Vanhootegam made cleared to me was that I would be a sprinter and not fast.
People of a certain calibre and experience would know the depth in that analogy,” he shared.
Lawrence would team up with college teammates Elija Joseph, Denzil Simusialela and Waly Bathily to win the 4x100 relay event in a time of 38.23, in the America Junior Championships As for his academics, Lawrence said, “I’ve generally been an A student however, I just had to formulate a schedule that works best for me as a student-athlete to remain discipline and get the work done. …. I’ve dedicated a lot of focus into my studies so that I can elevate sports in St. Vincent and The Grenadines.”
Marcellin – new WICB President
CLEMENT
MARCELLINof
Dominica was elected President of Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB) at the Board’s Annual General Meeting held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, in Grenada. Wayne Auguste of St. Lucia was elected VicePresident.
Others comprising the newly installed Board are: Secretary: Kesron Walters (Saint Vincent) — re-elected; TreasurerJenry Ollivierre (Saint Vincent) — retained. Romel Currency continues as Chief Executive Officer.
Territorial Board
Members are: Dougal James and Kaschaka Cupid (Saint Vincent); Norman Gilbert and Randel Baptiste (Grenada); Jamie Jno Baptiste and Jesse Bardouille (Dominica); and John Estephane (Saint Lucia). The election follows a transitional period that began in October 2024 after the resignation of then-President Dwain Gill, who took up a new position with Cricket West Indies (CWI). During the interim, Marcellin served as Acting President, with
Auguste as Acting Vice-President. Both were formally elected unopposed. President Marcellin and VicePresident Auguste will also serve as the WICB’s Directors on the CWI Board. Jamie Jno Baptiste and John Estephane were confirmed as alternates.
Wayne AugusteVice-
Speaking after the election, President Marcellin said, “I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility. We’ve made meaningful progress, but our mission continues–to elevate the standard of cricket in every territory and ensure players, male and female, are supported at every level.”
The new Board will serve from 2025 to 2027.
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
VINCENTIAN
Verdine Warner has been campaigning professionally in France for the
Verdine Warner has the full attention of two of the youngsters involved in the camp.
Kyke Lawrence - part of the successful 4x100m relay team
Kyle Lawrence and his coach Jim Vanhootegam.
President of WICB.
Clement MarcellinPresident of WICB.
Female of interest surfaces in Vermont killing
From Backpage
was reported to the Vermont Police Station, who responded promptly and secured the scene.
Harry is no stranger to the police/crime radar here. He was freed in 2024, after having had his sentence reduced to time served on remand, in connect with a 2018 robbery and killing of security guard Rodney George, at GEC Auto Supplies, Villa. Harry also escaped sentence in a matter involving Reisha Twana Caesar, wife of Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar, when she declined to give evidence
in a case in which she was the victim of a robbery, allegedly committed by Harry and three accomplices. A source told THE VINCENTIAN that Harry had taken to farming following “since he get off from jail time.”
(DD/KH)
AI REAL ESTATE
SVG RECORDS ITS LATEST ROAD FATALITY
Somurno Richardson – this country’s latest road fatality.
IN THE ‘HEART’ OF TRAFFIC BRANCH of the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) led observance of Road Safety Week 2025, Sunday 25th May to Friday 30th May, 2025, this country recorded its latest road fatality.
The deceased has been identified as, Somuro Richardson, a 23-year-old male from Barrouallie. He and his wife operate a catering business.
According to a police report, on
Wednesday 28th May, “… a grey
Toyota Vitz, registration number R2274, owned by Javid Williams of New Montrose, was at the time of the accident being driven by Mr. Orande Charles, a 22-year-old resident of Union Island, and travelling towards Belair.”
Mr. Somuro Richardson was seated in the front passenger seat of the said vehicle.
Motor vehicle TZ-592, a red Isuzu Truck owned by Rafique Dunbar of Villa and driven by Kerry Codougan of Brighton, was travelling on the same portion of road towards the Arnos Vale roundabout.
The vehicles as referenced collided just about when they got in the
FEMALE
vicinity of the Rubis Gas station.
The driver and passenger of R-2274 sustained serious injuries and were transported to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for medical assistance.
Richardson later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased by a medical practitioner at 6:20 p.m. The driver of motor vehicle TZ-592 was not injured.
Motor vehicle R-2274 was extensively damaged, while motor vehicle TZ-592 was slightly damaged. Both vehicles were taken to the Police Garage for inspection. Investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile the driver of a blue Suzuki Swift that crashed into a parked vehicle outside Lewis Pharmacy on Friday 23rd May, around 4:00pm, said the vehicle he was driving experienced a sudden, unintended acceleration, forcing him to take action to prevent any casualties.
“I had my kids in the car and it just started to accelerate and I couldn’t get any break. People were around, so I had to pull off, otherwise it would kept
going and might have injured people,” explained the driver. It was in “pulling off’ that he collided with the parked vehicle. No one was seriously hurt in this mishap.
OF INTEREST SURFACES IN VERMONT KILLING
UP TO WEDNESDAY, the police were busy with efforts to identity a female who they said was in the company of 49-year-old Denzil Harry, whose lifeless body was discovered at his home in Vermont around 7:35 a.m on May 23.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey said at a police-hosted press conference on May 26, that a ‘female of interest’ had emerged in the case.
According to ACP Bailey, the yet to be identified woman was not known to the police, however she was a person of interest in the investigation.
He explained that the investigation had revealed thus far that Harry was in the company of a female in the hours prior to his death, and that they were seen moving around in a vehicle.
“And sometime after the gunshots rang out, there was an interaction with a female and someone on the road, and that was the last time that the said female was seen,” ACP Bailey added.
“We have every reason to believe that she is very much still alive, and she is of critical importance to us,” he continued.
Bailey appealed to members of the public who might have information about the women, especially here whereabouts, to share that information with the police.
He also made a direct appeal to the female to contact the police.
A police report on the shooting stated that the deceased, Denzil Harry, a 49-year-old farmer of Diamond/Vermont, was found at his home dead, around 7:35 a.m. on May 23, 2025, with what unconfirmed reports said were gunshot injuries to his head.
Preliminary investigations revealed that community members reported hearing gunshots during the night. One resident conducted checks and subsequently discovered the body. The incident Continued on Page 27.
by KENVILLE HORNE
Denzil Harry body is reported, unconfirmed, to have shown signs of injuries caused by gunshots.
The remains of the vehicle in which Somuro Richardson was travelling.
The scene of the mishap in Kingstown on May 23 also involved two vehicles.