THE VINCENTIAN PDF-19-01-23

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

VOLUME 118, No.03

Dame Susan Foundation Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

NLTI opens Page 11

Lights delayed Page 16

EC$1.50

Kai conquers channel Page 20

POLICE AND CIVILIANS SQUARE OFF

Jphn rescues himself Page24

by KENVILLE HORNE MEMBERS OF THE RAPID RESPONSE UNIT (RRU), commonly referred to as the Black Squad, and some residents in the East St. George community of Choppins got into a physical confrontation on Saturday 13th January, during an attempt by the police to arrest a resident of that community.

In the process, shots were fired into the air by the RRU officers, in an effort to quell the mob that had literally begun to man handle the officers.

Following the incident, an account of which went viral on various social media platforms, the RSVG Police Force (RSVGPF), through its Public Relations and Complaints Department, on Tuesday 16th January, issued a statement in which it gave an account of the incident in Choppins.

According to the statement, a party of officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) went to Choppins in Amidst much interference by residents, the police search of a suspect who move in to further enforce the arrest of the Continued on Page 3. suspect.

Choppins resident resisting arrest by officers of the RSVPF.

The officers of the RSVGPF (see officer at left with firearm) had to resort to discharging shots in the air to quell the mob that had engulfed them.

2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 3.

News 3 The Dame Susan Dougan Foundation makes donation Dame Susan Dougan, in whose name the Dame Susan Dougan Foundation is established, is overwhelmed by the momentum the initiative has developed in its short period of operation to date.

by KENVILLE HORNE THE DAME SUSAN DOUGAN FOUNDATION was launched on September 7th, 2023.

Founded in the name of the current Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines with the primary aim of creating ‘second chances’ for displaced young woman and girls, especially those still in the school system.

Last Monday, Jan.15, in a ceremony at the Government House, Governor General Dame Susan Dougan traced the genesis of the idea for the Foundation.

Dame Susan said she first

put out the idea of having a foundation to Vincentians in the UK, when she visited the UK for the coronation of Kings Charles III. “The Vincentians in the UK thought it was an excellent idea. They were ready to come on board before the project was fully conceptualized. They had a lot of ideas and The items for distribution were neatly packaged. those ideas they Monday’s event was Nicola submitted to me,” Dame Susan has been very, very good.”

Tangible support has been Evans of the Dame Susan related.

Dougan Foundation. She She referred to having a few forthcoming from donors in the UK, who were able to expressed, on behalf of the friends in schools here who gather and fill a barrel with Foundation and the Governor had indicated that they various items and have it General in particular, how needed some help. pleasing it was that This prompted the move to shipped to St. Vincent.

“We received it during the stakeholders were so willing to make the concern of the Christmas season and they participate in the project. She Foundation a national one. sent all kinds of paraphernalia credited Dame Susan for To date, visits have been “always finding a way to make made to ten schools across the - calculators, geometry sets, sanitary items - things that we changes.” state, including the Central Nicole McLean, Principal of Leeward, St. Clair Dacon and tend to overlook that students may wish to use,” Dame Susan the Thomas Saunders the Sandy Bay Secondary pointed out.

Secondary School, extended schools, to ascertain their Items were handed over to gratitude to Dame Susan for needs. relevant school officials during the initiative.

Dame Susan emphasized, Monday’s event.

“We know that it will help “We are working closely with Her Excellency added that our students. Sometimes it is the Ministry of Education she hopes to see improvements the problems outside of the because we are not trying to classroom that affect what the do their work. We are partners in students’ academic and overall performance, after a students can truly achieve and and where there is a given period of time. She again we are so pleased with shortcoming in any way, we will try to see how best we can pledged her continued support. the initiative and the help,” Also speaking at last Mclean said. assist. Thus far the support

Police and civilians square off

exercised by the police officers, the situation could have turned out to be very Continued from Frontpage. search him. The suspect pulled an effort to disperse the crowd tragic for the suspect, the away and slapped the officer and de-escalate the situation, unruly mob, and themselves.”

The statement went on to was reportedly in possession of in his face,” the statement police discharged two shots in remind the public of the an illegal firearm. Upon added. the air,” the statement obligations and powers entering the village, they saw The police release also disclosed, adding, conferred upon police officers a male fitting the description noted that the officers again “… the officer rightly held in the execution of their duties of the suspect. held on to the suspect in an onto the suspect’s hand to “The officers approached the attempt to conduct the search, affect the arrest but he pulled and in accordance with the Firearms Act, and the suspect and identified however, the angry crowd away. … If such person (the Criminal Procedure Code themselves to him as police violently pulled the suspect person who is under arrest) officers. The officer in charge away from the officers. While forcibly resists the endeavour (CPC), relating to, among of the patrol informed the this was happening, someone to arrest him, or endeavours to other things, the arrest and searching of suspects. suspect about the information from the crowd grabbed the evade the arrest, such police It emphasized that that it is that was received and purse that the suspect was officer or other person may use an offence to obstruct a police requested a search of his carrying, which the officers all means necessary to effect officer while he/she is person,” the statement read. suspected to have contained the arrest,” as per section executing their duty.

“A crowd immediately the illegal firearm, as 22(2) of the Criminal Not for the first time, the gathered around the police reported, and ran.

Procedure Code.

RSVGPF called on all citizens and the suspect and started to “During the upheaval, a The Public Relations and and residents of St. Vincent behave in a hostile manner police officer was thrown to Complaints Department and the Grenadines to respect towards the police. A police the ground by the crowd, and highlighted that “that had it and abide by the laws of the officer then held onto the was injured in the process. In not been for the restraint state. suspect and attempted to

Nicola Evans of the Dame Susan Dougan Foundation credits Dame Susan with an eye for making changes.

Nicole McLean of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School was on hand to extend thanks to the Foundation for its assistance.

All in all, the Governor General declared that she was “overwhelmed because what started as a thought and a concept materialized into something very wonderful.”

The RSVGPF noted that, “There are too many instances where some members of the public are engaged in ‘fighting’ the police. The RSVGPF encourages the public to work with the police in creating safer communities and combating crime and violence in the land.”

The acting Commissioner of Police, Enville Williams has ordered a full investigation into the matter.

A number of residents in Choppins are however disputing the police account of what transpired.

One resident told THE VINCENTIAN Newspaper that they are willing to give an account of what led to the conflict. All things being equal, this should be carried in the next issue of THE VINCENTIAN.

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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Supervisor fined for gun and bullets paid by Monday, January 22, with an alternative of DESPITE the Prosecution’s two years in prison on request for a custodial each charge. The sentence, in light of the sentences will run current atmosphere concurrently if the fines regarding gun-related are not paid. crimes and homicides here, Chewitt, who resides in construction supervisor the United States pleaded Khanroy Chewitt of Park Hill guilty to the charges on escaped a prison sentence his return to the on Monday for firearm and Kingstown Magistrate’s ammunition possession.

Court on Monday. He had After listening to a pleaded not guilty to both mitigation plea from charges when he initially Chewitt’s lawyer Grant appeared at that Court on Connell, a response from January 8, and the Senior Prosecutor Corlene Magistrate adjourned the Samuel, and scrutinizing matter to January 12, at two medical reports on the Connell’s request. In the 65-year-old man’s interim, Chewitt was condition, Senior granted $5,000 bail with Magistrate Colin John one surety, but the matter opted to impose a fine, was further adjourned to rather than a custodial Monday, January 15. sentence.

Chewitt was arrested Chewitt was fined around 5:10 a.m. on $15,000 for illegal January 6, during a joint possession of a .25 Titan operation by the Narcotics pistol and $10,000 for Unit, and the Rapid possession of 19 rounds of Response Unit (RRU), .25 ammunition. which was led by Both fines are to be Inspector Nolan Dalaway Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS

of the RRU. The officers executed a search warrant at the Park Hill home of the defendant, who was met there, and during a search of his bedroom, they found multiple shoes packed together under a dressing table. The shoes were searched, and one was found to contain a sock that felt heavy. The officers took out the contents during which they found a .25 Titan pistol. They also noticed a box in the sock which when opened revealed the 19 rounds of .25 ammunition.

Initially, Chewitt denied that the gun and ammunition belonged to him, saying that he did not live there, but later told the police that he would take responsibility for the items because they were found on his property.

In his mitigation plea, Connell requested a fine

or suspended sentence. He pointed out that the Firearms Act states that a person could be fined up to $20,000 with an alternative of seven years in prison, and could also be fined and confined for firearm or ammunition possession. He added that while the Firearms Act does not speak to the applicability of a suspended sentence for firearms or ammunition possession, section 30(2) of the Criminal Code says that a suspended sentence shall be denied if a person is in possession of an illegal firearm at the time of the commissioner of the offense.

Connell also told the Court that the defendant had a serious medical issue that could not be addressed here, given this country’s limitation in the area of health care. He said this must be addressed with some level of urgency, and beyond

these shores.

Connell presented two medical reports to the Court, one from Chewitt’s doctor in the United States, and the other from a local doctor. He said sending his client to prison could be a catalyst for his demise.

The lawyer said the offences should fall in category 3 in terms of consequences, and the medium level, in terms of Khanroy Chewitt seriousness. He suggested changed his plea to a starting of 40 percent of guilty and had his the maximum penalty which is about 32 months, lawyer successful argue and asked the Court to go against a jail sentence. downwards, expressing But Prosecutor Samuel the view that the in her response, requested mitigating factors a prison sentence, outweighed the stressing the prevalence aggravating. He contended that every case of gun crimes and murders here, as well as must be dealt with the public’s interest. She according to the factual pointed out that the matrix. sentencing guidelines did “There is no victim in not say that a person who this case, and he is sick, or of a certain age (Chewitt) cannot be a cannot go to prison. She danger to the public stressed a large number of because he lives elsewhere. He has walked ammunition with which Chewitt was found. the straight and narrow In countering Connell’s path for 65 years. The role of the law is not just to fill argument for a suspended base where they volunteered to the jails”, the lawyer said. sentence, the prosecutor give caution statements. In her said that suspended statement, Patterson admitted that He added that Chewitt sentences were not cooperated with the the drug belonged to her. As a applicable to firearms and police, had no previous result, she was charged with ammunition possession. convictions, and pleaded possession and drug-trafficking. guilty at the first Prosecutor Corlene Samuel told Continued on Page 23. available opportunity. the Court that Patterson also said in her caution statement that she was selling the drug. Samuel noted that there were children in the house, and the drug was found in a bag on a bed lying around.

Among the mitigating factors of A SANDY BAY/ARNOS VALE the offender, Samuel said man who was denied bail last Patterson had no previous week on the grounds that the convictions and pleaded guilty at man whom he had injured was this first available opportunity. As hospitalized with a cracked skull, for the offense, the Prosecutor said was granted bail on his return to there was no sophistication in the Court on Monday. concealment of the drug.

Vivian Sutherland has been In tears, the defendant told the charged with causing grievous Senior Magistrate, “Please have bodily harm to Asquith Blugh of mercy on me my honour. I am not Diamond, with intent so to do. working.”

When Sutherland initially When the Magistrate asked her, appeared at the Kingstown Vivian “Why you placed it in your Magistrate’s Court on January 8, Sutherland is grandmother’s room?” Patterson Prosecutor Delando Charles accused of replied, “From my kids.” objected to bail, and informed the inflicting Patterson is the mother of three Court that Blugh was warded at serious bodily children, the last being seven the Milton Cato Memorial harm on months old.

Hospital with a cracked skull.

Asquith Blugh.

When the Magistrate asked her Senior Magistrate upheld the who will attend to the children if objection, and remanded she was to go to prison, it was not Sutherland until Monday, January 15 for bail clear what was her reply. review.

“If I am to charge you a fine who However, when Sutherland returned to Court on is going to pay it?” the Magistrate Monday, the Prosecution withdrew its objection to asked. The woman replied, still in bail since the victim was said to be doing well. tears, “My father or my mother.”

As a result, Sutherland was granted $5,000 bail “This is a serious offense, you with one surety on condition that he report to the can’t allow people to use you,” the Sandy Bay Police Station every Monday between 8 Magistrate warned, and a.m. and 8 p.m. questioned, “Why you didn’t buy The matter was adjourned to May 15 and snacks or drinks to sell, why you transferred to the Serious Offenses Court. chose to buy cocaine?”

Blugh was reportedly struck in his head with a Despite the seriousness of the piece of pipe during an incident at Arnos Vale on charges, John chose not to send the January 5. woman to prison, giving her a Sutherland was not required to plea as the second chance at redemption. charge was laid indictably.

Young female cocaine dealer warned A 22-YEAROLD UNEMPLOYED woman who, on Tuesday, pleaded guilty to charges of cocaine possession and trafficking, has been warned not to let people use her, and to use her time positively.

Terrica The warning Patterson came from escaped a jail Senior sentence.

Magistrate Colin John just before fining Terrica Patterson of Texier Road, Layou, $5,000 to be paid in three months or one year in prison for possession of 21 grams of cocaine for the purpose of drugtrafficking.

For possession of the drug with intent to supply, Patterson was reprimanded and discharged. She

was also bonded for one year, in the sum of $2,000, or one year behind bars.

Patterson was arrested around 6:15 a.m. on January 14 during a combined operation by members of the Narcotics Unit, Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and Special Services Unit (SSU). The exercise was led by Corporal 615 Lafleur Williams of the RRU. The Court heard that the officers executed a search warrant at Patterson’s home where she was met with her family. She consented to the search and when asked if she had anything illegal to declare, she made no reply.

While searching the bedroom of Patterson’s grandmother, the police found a black and white polka dot, single-strap bag on the bed.

The bag was searched and found to contain another plastic bag which contained a transparent bag with four hard whitish items resembling cocaine.

Corporal Williams showed the contents to the grandmother, and she replied, “Officer the bag belongs to my granddaughter, Terrica Patterson, and I don’t know anything about the cocaine.”

She pointed out Patterson to the officers and when the drug was shown to Patterson, she acknowledged, “It is mine.”

They were both taken to the Narcotics

Accused skull cracker granted bail

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 5.

News

Lynx returns for Vincy Mas 2024 THE LYNX MAS BAND is giving early notice that it will be part of Vincy Mas

2024. stage in 2005, opted out The band, which made of the Vincy Mas 2023, its debut on the Carnival as Bandleader Cornelius

‘Pete’ Thomas was unavailable, because he was employed overseas.

BBO makes good on commitment AN EXTREMELY appreciative Mrs. Stacya Chapmans- Simmons was on Wednesday 17th January, 2024, the recipient of a cheque in the amount of EC$1,500.00 from the Becket Benefit Organisation (BBO).

This amount was part of the net profit from a fundraiser held on Saturday Dec 30th 2023, to raise much needed funds for the recipient’s mounting medical expenses.

According to Mrs Simmons, among her the

financial burden of the treatment regime with which she is required to comply are injections costing up to EC$500.00, and pills costing EC$5.00 each which are to be taken twice daily.

Founder and Executive Member of BBO - Dr Alston BECKET Cyrus D.Litt (h.c)- in addressing the handing over ceremony, admitted that he was expecting more from the fundraiser but was thankful for those who patronized the event, especially those from

Mrs. Stacya Chapmans-Simmons (front centre) with members of the BBO at the handing over ceremony. outside the community of Layou.

The event to which BECKET referred was a ‘Stacya’s Creole Food & Calaloo Soup Sale that was held on Saturday 3th December, 2024, on

the Melvilles Lot, Velox Corner, Layou.

The Becket Benefit Organization, a nonprofit, non-partisan community-based formalized in 2015, has been staging fundraising events to assist Layou residents with educational and medical expenses under the theme, “Helping Layou Residents to help Themselves”. (CD)

However, with all things being equal, Lynx, according to Thomas, “is ready and raring”, for the June 28 to July 9, 2024 Festival.

Thomas noted that his organisation had a year to prepare, and will be going all out to make the 2024 presentation special.

“We will be participating fully in Vincy Mas this year, and although we were out last year, expect the same high standard from us, as we again will be competitive,” Thomas expressed.

Without divulging much, Thomas hinted that his band’s 2024 production will be as good as any in the past.

“We will be presenting seven sections, two children sections, as well as five adult sections, one which is unisex,” Thomas disclosed.

Lynx Mas Band enjoyed its best year in 2019, winning the coveted Band of the Year

Cornelius ‘Pete’ Thomas – lead of Lynx Mas band, said that his team is ready and raring to go for Carnival 2024. title, with their presentation ‘Come Fly With’.

In addition to that big prize, Lynx Mas Band earned the King of the Bands title, Junior Band of the Year, Junior Section of the Year and Best Use of Colours.

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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. THE VINCENTIAN

Views 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

LIAT (1974) Ltd. is NO MORE AAs far as the legalities are concerned, i.e. as per company registration, etc., our friendly regional airline LIAT (1974) Ltd. will officially be no more as of January 24, 2024.

The company as we knew it to be in the hands of four major regional government shareholders - Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica and our beloved St. Vincent and the Grenadine - will cease to exist.

And as unambiguously relayed in a letter to 90 or so remaining employees of LIAT (1974) Ltd., the company was in no position to honour “immediately” any severance or other entitled payments (e.g. vacation) just as it said way back in 2020 when it declared itself bankrupt and moved to have a court administrator appointed to oversee operations of an already grounded airline.

What happened in effect, is that it took the Administrator the better part of three and half years to tell the region what we had known for quite some time. Why on earth did we pay this person (remuneration not made public) to oversee an operation that in effect had long been grounded. Why did we have to wait some three and half years to have him say the obvious, save and except to have him give a precise date for the cessation of any semblance of operation that was attributed to LIAT (1974) Ltd. Could it be that the Administrator was made to serve as an apologist for the heads of Government who had pumped hard- earned resources of their respective countries into a structure that they knew was doomed.

Heads of government who vacillated between telling their citizenries: that LIAT was more than a business, it was a critical social service in the lives of the people of the region and a vital tool in the scheme of fostering regional integration; and saying when it was convenient that LIAT (1974) Ltd. had to cease taking up the slack, extending ridiculous concessions, and be set on a firm business platform.

How well we recall that vacillation being ‘personified’ in a robust if not heated exchange between our Prime Minister - Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in his capacity as Chairman of the shareholder grouping of LIAT (1974) Ltd.., with a Grenadian journalist who held her own against what one

journalist in the region described as a “raging Ralph”.

Was it that our Prime Minister was so ‘passionate” about ‘keeping LIAT in the skies’ that he simply sought to belittle a journalist who sought to raise concerns that many across the region had shared? But that is another LIAT-generated story.

All we dare say is: What forked tongues we have!!!

Was this period of inactivity — i.e. the tenure of the Administrator, a smoke screen to veil Heads of Government, including our own, from facing their electorates, their citizens, whose resources were used to keep ‘LIAT in the skies’ while we totally ignored any suggestion that we devolve the investment structure of the airline?

And by the way, this column has deliberately not included any reference to the effectiveness of the Board of Directors of this LIAT (1974) Ltd. in any of its previous discourses on LIAT. This, since given the political machinations that characterised the operation of this regional airline, any Board of Directors in that situation, no offence meant to any of the learned persons who served as Directors, would have been a mere rubber stamp as the shareholder Heads of Government sought to protect their respective political turfs and play footsie with their people.

When it boiled down to the real thing, the politics of the region far outweighed any business-like recommendations the Board might have advanced for consideration by the shareholders.

From where some of us stand, the LIAT fiasco is an indictment against a handful of Caribbean leaders to whom their people had abrogated the responsibility of protecting and enhancing their interest.

And it will continue to be a stain on the faces of those leaders, who continue against a tapestry of illadvised decisions, cannot, or are not prepared to honour severance pay and other entitlements owing to hundreds of workers.

How “nice” it is to campaign on a promise to be ‘people first’ and then fail to honour a legitimate claim by a cross- section of the same people whom you say ‘you love’.

A few comments on the budget I DID NOT LISTEN TO MUCH of the budget presentation, nor have I seen the printed document, so my comments are limited to the summary of others’ reactions to the Budget.

I am pleased to hear that the government is moving towards shifting some more of the burden of running the country onto the upperclass, all-be-it ever so slightly. I am pleased that the income tax threshold subject to taxes was moved to income above $25,000. I celebrate the decision to increase the minimum wage to $50/day or $7 per hour. Now, I wish the decision was laid out with two more incremental increases of fifty cents each of the next two years.

I admire the courage to increase the vehicle license fees; I would have liked for the rise to be restricted to a special fund for the reconstruction of feeder farm roads. The increased NIS contribution over the next four years is another reasonable decision and the most reasonable approach toward funding this shortfall. We must commit to implementing the actuarial recommendations biannually once this fix is in place.

I look forward to the year when the investment earnings on this fund and the annual contributions will be sufficient to cover annual payments.

Better yet, I would like to see participation levels so high that we could even recommend reducing the contribution rates.

I did not see any money set aside in the Budget to fund the acquisition of Balliceaux. I don’t want to make a big issue of this, but since the Prime Minister (PM) made it clear that he wants this issue substantially resolved by March of this year, I expected some money in the Budget to address this issue. Nothing speaks louder than putting your (our) money where our mouth is. While this is not the end of the world, some funding in the Budget would have demonstrated our total commitment to the acquisition process. I want to encourage the planning department to begin a parallel process of creating a historic overlay zoning on this property in our zoning codes. Let’s establish a fair market value for the

island, offer, and proceed with the accusations as quickly as possible. I will share some more detailed thoughts on this project later.

I noted that utilities VINLEC and CWSA announced two major capital projects this year. I am unsure if these were included in the Budget and if they received any consolidated fund subsidy. I am not sure what is being proposed for this project in Bequia. I assume that since a battery storage facility is included, we must be planning some solar power generation. I hope we are. Once again, I will not miss this opportunity to request a revision of the current rate structure. The overreliance on balancing the cost of operations on the ever-moving energy surcharge is a mistake, and some may say it leaves too much room for abuse.

I am pleased that CWSA is beginning to look for additional water resources to augment our surface water supplies. I am hesitant to believe that we will find sufficient groundwater that will not impact the surface water, but if we do, let’s do it because I fully anticipate we will need it sooner rather than later.

Ok, enough of this love feat. Here are some opportunities I feel we missed in this Budget. On principle, I must state that we are making a bad habit of not presenting a balanced budget, and too many of our aspirational items are not listed and funded. We must begin to support our Arts and Cultural programmes more deliberately. For example, it is not unreasonable to ask for one percent of our capital budget to be set aside to fund the variety of arts and culture programmes. We cannot continue to rely on the (profit of) the national lottery to fund these programs since it has become a slush fund for everything else.

While some applaud the idea of increasing the NIS contribution, I think the delay in implementing the increase until June is a mistake. The longer we take to start funding the NIS at the required levels, the longer it will take to recover.

Horatio.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 7.

Letters

Parliament’s undignified silence THERE ARE JUST over 100,000 of us and we cannot all fit into the parliament building, so we organized 15 representatives to speak on our behalf. It is a disgrace that we were not able to hear from most of them. This is not the first time that this has happened, and we cannot stomach this recurring undignified silence. It might have been advantageous for Papa to tell his son to maintain a dignified silence in the hopes that the story of his infractions will go away, but to impose undignified silence on those appointed to speak on our behalf is totally out of order.

Just in case the speaker does not know what her role is, we hereby instruct her: Your role is to facilitate the members of parliament as they speak on our behalf. We have a long

and rich history based on culture and practice of British Western Democracies. We expect appropriate rules to apply but we should not use the rules to defeat the purpose of our parliament. We have had to put up with long winded ministerial statements, congratulatory remarks of every minor and major achievement of our people, death announcements and obituaries, long responses that sometimes hardly answer the questions asked.

When we tune in to parliament, we expect to hear healthy debates with the ministers presenting their programme and the opposition responding. This is not hard to arrange. Members can agree on when each one should speak. It is not “get

ball bowl” and “out a man bat,” nor is it “hide and seek.” Even the rum shop knows how to carry on a debate. The governing party always has the advantage because the leader of the house usually speaks at the end sometimes usurping the wind-up rebuttal of the finance minister, often leaving him with nothing much to add.

Children do not hold grudges for “long.” They will have a dispute, but we will see them talking and playing together again shortly thereafter.

There appears to be a long-standing dispute between the prime minister and the leader of the opposition.

Apparently, the prime minister does not speak to the leader of the opposition, and apparently, he does not listen to him either as manifested

by the prime minister’s absence from the House for the entire duration of the opposition leader’s budget response. We are calling for a truce to be facilitated either by the president of Guyana or Venezuela to get both parties together again. They need to adopt the “Tanty Ma” principle: Even if you were just the object of a tongue lashing and you call out to her, you get the nice response: “my dear do do darling.”

We are usually told to get our information from official sources, but since they have failed us, we turn to the rum shop.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

The Caribbean: A zone of peace AS CITIZENS of the land of the blessed and more so saints of the Most High, and employers of the prime minister, his cabinets, civil servants, and others, we must unite and stand up for our rights.

He weathered the storm to help the Caribbean remain a zone of peace, with the AIA Declaration between Venezuela/Guyana. Can we imagine the outcome had Venezuela attacked

Guyana’s military? AIA might have given us a picture of what’s going on in Ukraine or Palestine. What went into the mind of President Maduro to have his supporters give him legal rights to displace hundreds of thousands, for what is not his?

We may be asked the same question about Putin, but even if Putin read the letter the PM of SVG sent to Venezuela, Putin could not be

stopped. (Ezekiel 38/39 gives a picture of the drama taking place globally) How come when the NDP members were removed in military style from the Parliament of SVG by military, some members of the NDP were hospitalized, and PM Gonsalves could not prevent that? The action caused Cummings grievous physical and mental harm, not to mention the others.

I was in parliament

that day and looked at the drama. The PM could have asked that the House be suspended.

But they wanted more.

People were on the streets protesting the ULP-led government. I stood with the people in their protest and prevented the people from fighting. Violence is the last means we will use to achieve our goal.

So, Peter’s sword is still in his hand.

We thank PM Gonsalves for his wise

The transformative power of music in mental well-being AN UPBEAT single by one of the major female Soca voices, Patrice Roberts, recently revealed her ongoing battle with anxiety. The release of her single Anxiety is what she believes is her most sincere song to date.

The opening line goes, “Said I am falling, falling and falling. As I lay in my bed with my head to the ceiling. Say I’m drowning alone and I’m lost in my feelings.

“Somebody send me a sign ‘cause you know that I need it. Carnival come back to me ‘cause you know you’re my healing.”

In speaking about the song, Roberts reiterated its true meaning and the origin of its creation. The song tackles real issues affecting individuals: self-confidence, stress, loneliness, and social anxiety. Her song encapsulates the

emotions and experiences of those struggling with mental health issues and encourages people to seek help. The song is a powerful reminder of the importance of taking care of our mental health. Roberts’ message is an important reminder that we are all in this together and that it is okay to reach out for help.

In hindsight, we listen to music to get pumped up about something, to find personal peace, to sympathize and to give our emotions an outlet.

Music has shaped culture for centuries, making it an integral part of our lives. Music profoundly influences our socio-emotional development and overall well-being, whether we listen passively or actively by singing or playing instruments.

Moreover, music has the power to bring people together, to express emotions, and to provide a sense of unity. It can also provide a source of comfort and joy and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Music is a powerful tool for healing and can be used to help people cope with trauma, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also be a source of motivation and inspiration and can help people achieve their goals.

Music is an alternative form of therapy to facilitate a person’s physical and mental health. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve selfesteem, and increase relaxation. Music therapy can also help people with physical illnesses, such as chronic pain, by stimulating the release of endorphins.

Furthermore, music therapy can reduce pain, and stress and improve mood by stimulating the brain to produce hormones. The endorphins released during music therapy can also help to reduce inflammation and stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

There is no doubt that mental health issues are among the most prominent causes of death across the globe.

There is no escaping the fact that even the tiniest symptoms need attention and patient listening! It has always been a great benefit to society, to have music therapy available.

Likewise, let’s acknowledge the fact that mental health issues should not be viewed as social stigmas so that all of them can speak out more freely.

intervention in the Essequibo dispute. As we look at our employer, Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves, we can see that he is aging and we are concerned about his health. We are also looking at a war in the ULP’s poor leadership.

The MNU fraction wanted Camillo, and the SVLP wanted Saboto, but neither has what it takes to lead and keep the ULP together. This is the biggest failure for Ralph Gonsalves; he never produces leaders.

Is the Lynch philosophy of the 14 copybooks and one encyclopedia true?

“These are the last general elections that I am offering myself as a political leader of the ULP…” (ULP in 2015 manifesto, p.6).

Christian Democrat

The Opposition DR. ROUF AHMAD BHAT, who currently works at the Faculty of Social Science, Department of Political Science, University of Kashmir, wrote in the introduction to his Paper titled ‘Role of Opposition Party in Democracy’ (the International Journal of Science and Research): ‘The Opposition is as important as that of ruling party.

They ensure that the acts of the ruling party are not detrimental to the interest of general public or nation at large. The role of the Opposition party is not to oppose every decision of the ruling party.

Rather, it is the duty of the Opposition party to support the ruling party for the acts that are in the interest of the nation.

The Opposition parties play a very significant role in a democracy as representatives of the people. The Opposition acts as watch dog of the system. In such countries where there is a twoparty system in vogue, the Opposition party forms a shadow cabinet to exercise vigil over the performance of the Government.’

Gus

Shimano Bailey

Gonsalves, ten years later is still the leader of the party, because of the rejection of Camillo, his son as leader, and Sabota because of his incompetence.

After the reign of Ralph Gonsalves, our people will see the Movement for National Unity (MNU) (Ps. 133).

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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. THE VINCENTIAN

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Tax give-aways are far more than fee rises

Budget 2024 NB: This is an abridged version. services at the hospitals and the vendors Issue who rent to the Town Board. At the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital alone, BUDGET 2024 presented to Parliament on in-patient arrears for the years 2016January 8, 2024 by Minister of Finance 2023 amount to over $12 million. It is Camillo Gonsalves contained tax likely that the waivers/rebates will be giveaways to Vincentians which are far between 50 percent and 100 percent. more in value than the fee rises for certain The waivers/rebates at the MCMH will services provided by the government. amount to at least $6 million. The data As a result of the Budget, Vincentians from Town Board are still to be verified, and residents in St. Vincent and the but the loss to the Treasury of Grenadines have more money in their waivers/rebates will be substantial. pockets than before the Budget.

Together the income tax reduction Further, wage and salary increase and these other tax or fee reductions bolster the material well-being of the will cost in excess of $18 million. people. So, too are the jobs, including quality jobs, created because of the Increase of fees/charges for services Budget. provided Moreover, the reforms announced for the National Insurances Services will There are increases for fees/charges put the NIS further on a sustainable in Budget 2024 for the following: footing for at least another 36 years. (i) Drivers’ licence fees and related These are the unvarnished facts. Let fees were last increased in 2016. The us go to the details. cost to government for delivering these services have gone up sharply. The Reduction in Personal Income Tax increases are modest on a pre-existing small base. In total, government will Budget 2024 makes wages/salaries for collect $2 million more on these everyone below $25,000 per year, or increases. $2,083 per month tax free. In 2001 (ii) Motor vehicle licenses were also when the ULP came to office only the last reviewed in 2016. The increases are first $12,000 per year was free of income very modest for the bulk of the vehicles, tax. In stages over the last 23 years, the and will yield additional revenue of just ULP government has more than doubled about $4 million. The increases on the earnings which are tax-free. Only last heavy trucks, over 8 tons, which mash year, 2023, our government increased up the roads are much higher. Surely, the tax-free income from $20,000 to no one can reasonably disagree with $22,000 per year; now, the tax-free this. Actually, the increase for a big income goes up to $25,000 in Budget SUV is only $95 per year, less than $8 2024. per month. For a small car, the increase This free-up of another $3,000 in is $40 per year. annual income from income taxes costs (iii) Electrical Inspectorate fees were the Treasury a whopping $6.6 million last increased 28 years ago in 1995. annually. For every $1,000 freed-up Modest increases in 2024 will provide from income taxes costs the Treasury additional revenue of 250 thousand $2.2 million per year. Thus from 2023 dollars. to 2024, the freeing up of $5,000 from (iv) The Airport Service Charge is income taxes means a loss to the being increased from US$40 to US$55.

Treasury of $11 million per year This is payable on all airline tickets for travel in and out of St. Vincent and the Other tax/fee reductions in Budget 2024 Grenadines. These charges go directly to operate the Argyle International Airport The other tax/fee reductions for the which has over 300 employees. The people in Budget 2024 are as follows: additional revenue is estimated at $6.6 (i) 50 percent reduction on new tyres million. This increase takes effect on 1st from January 1st to June 30th, 2024. A May, 2024. Even with this increase, this review will be done thereafter. This will Service Charge is still among the lowest save someone with an SUV some $700 in the Caribbean. Tourists are a huge or thereabouts. group who will pay this increase, (ii) The duty-free concession on although Vincentian travellers will also cement will continue for another year pay. until December 31, 2024; a further In total, therefore, the increases in review will be done then. fees and charges will amount to $12.25 (iii) The VAT-free concession for million annually. This is much less than domestic consumers of electricity from the tax/fee giveaways.

VINLEC on the first 250 units (kilowatt It should be pointed that even with $6 hours) consumed will continue until million increase in drivers’ and motor December 31, 2024; a further review will vehicles’ fees, the total collected for be done then. This measure means that these road-related fees in 2024 will over 80 percent of domestic consumers amount to less than $30 million. pay no VAT on electricity. Before this However, it costs more than $3 million concession in 2021, only the first 150 to reconstruct one mile of road. In other units consumed were duty-free. words, the total of all these fees can (iv) 50 percent reduction on principal reconstruct less than 10 miles of road! and interest of monies borrowed by But there are almost 90 miles of farmers from the state-owned Farmers’ highways (Windward, Leeward, and Support Company (FSC). This reduction Vigie), 400 miles of secondary or village will cost $2.75 million. roads, and 400 miles of feeder rods. In (v) The interest rate on student loans Budget 2024, the sum of over 100 for Economically Disadvantaged million dollars is allocated to roads Students from the state-owned Student (capital projects and maintenance Loan Company is further reduced from 6 through BRAGSA). Thus, the percent per year to 4.5 percent. government has to borrow money to (vi) On March 1, 2024, finance the rest of the reconstruction waivers/rebates on arrears owed to the and repairs/maintenance much beyond hospital services and Town Board what is collected in road-related fees. respectively, will be announced. These Surely, the government has been waivers/rebates will bring significant reasonable, and more than fair, in this relief to persons who used the in-patient regard.

Budget 2024- A Missed Opportunity (Excerpts of the Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Dr Godwin Friday’s response to Budget 2024 Pt. 2) A BUDGET IS A COMPLETE PACKAGE and when you promise it, you are supposed to deliver everything in it. Unless there are exigent circumstances. So you are saying, we are building the second largest project ever in the country. How could you say we can’t deliver, but the fact is, as big as that project is Madam Speaker, it is still only one project and it does not affect people’s daily lives in the way that bad roads, drains and the jetties affect them.

Madam Speaker, you know what is more egregious. They make these promises deliberately knowing that they cannot be fulfilled. They know they will not collect the money because they have failed to collect even 5% in that category called Other Receipts over the years. In fact, the Audit Report for 2019, at page 40 Madam Speaker, indicates that out of $198 million in 2019, in Other Receipts that the minister said that they would collect in order to implement their programs, they only collected $3 million. That was less than 1% of the revenue. And, if you are only collecting less than 1% of that large sum, how are you going to deliver? Unless of course, there is something else at play. Unless, of course there is something else that he is intended to do.

If that’s the case, you should say so and not leave it up to people to deduce. And if they know that they would not collect the money, they must also know that they can’t be delivering on those promises, yet they do it anyway. Year after year, the budget is inflated and more and more they try to convince the people that on the basis of that because it’s bigger every year you’re making progress because if you are increasing, they say you must be making progress. Even when you call them out on it, they could do it because they think they could fool the people all the time. But as the saying goes, you well know that you can’t fool all the people all the time. And, our people know that fool me once, shame on you.

Madam Speaker, our people know that you fool me once shame on you.

Fool me twice, shame on me because I should know better. And the people of this country, they know better. And, they will not be fooled forever. They will demand better from the government and they will demand change. Madam Speaker that is how we understand the overall presentation of the finances of the country as presented in Roman Numerals one that is the general summary of the finances. But, just for a moment, let us assume that the minister is correct that he says he will collect that money, $250 million, which is part of his capital spending a total of $570.5 million.

This is what he says Madam

Speaker. He says that they will spend $570.5 million in capital projects and that is a lot of money is a lot of projects as he says. Whether we have the capacity, of course to implement is a different matter. And he talked about some of those issues yesterday.

The minister also says that to implement those projects, this is according to his own figures that he has to raise or he will raise $805 million in Capital Receipts, $61 million in Grants, 371 million in External Loans, $155 million in Local Loans, in Capital Revenue of $1 million, and Other receipts of $215.5 million.

He says he needs to raise $805 million to implement capital projects that cost $570 million. So, he is raising in excess of $235 million more than he actually needs. Why does he need to raise more money than the projects cost? What does he intend to do with the excess money? And, a lot of the money is borrowed. $472 million of it is borrowed. Why would you borrow money that you don’t need?

Just think about it Madam Speaker.

You say that you’re going to spend on capital projects, $570 million. And in the same document, you say you’re going to raise $805 million to do it.

How does that make sense? Anybody who is building a house, they will tell you they go to the bank after the contractor told them that you need to borrow $250,000. They know the cost of borrowing and they try to get it down to $225,000, you borrow a little less. You don’t say it will cost $250,000, so let me borrow $300,000 because it will cost you more to carry it.

The reality is that the minister is departing from that common sense logic that the ordinary homeowner will apply when he is building his house.

Yet, he does not explain this illogical presentation in his document.

Borrowing money costs interest and it costs fees. Since we don’t need it to implement the projects because the projects only cost $570 million, why borrow it? If you don’t borrow it, it will reduce the debt burden and the cost of servicing the national debt, as we know, is a problem.

The way the minister presents it, the way he apparently wants us to see it, because he wants us to take the numbers in the estimates at face value. We are looking behind it and say, no, he can’t collect that amount of money because we look historically and say the $250 million in Other Receipts, you have not been collecting so therefore it’s bogus. But he is saying, no, this year will be different.

But, what are you going to do with that amount of money when you don’t need to take up the project? Does he want to waste money? I don’t want to ascribe that kind of thinking to the minister.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 9.

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Tired but thankful

“If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.” ~ Harold Samuel Kushner (born 1935) - a prominent American rabbi aligned with the progressive wing of Conservative Judaism, and a popular author.

LIFE’S VARIED CHALLENGES will periodically tire us. Heavy workloads, dealing with difficult co-workers, hectic domestic schedules, and dealing with the occasional illnesses and accidents in our homes are but a few of the events that tire us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. On those occasions we can so easily be lulled into a feeling of self-pity and discontent. However, these are the moments when we should slow ourselves down and contemplate how many good things we have going for us – how many good things emerge from bad situations.

Even amidst life’s challenges we can see so many reasons why we should be thankful. That resurrection of the sense of gratitude could give us reason to go on. That spirit of thankfulness can ignite new hope and new energies within us.

This, in turn, could inspire those with whom we come into contact. They, like us, will realise that even when we are tired a thankful spirit can nurture the soul.

Regardless of the circumstances that we find ourselves in, we should resolve to never get tired of well doing - as tired as we may be, we can be thankful for the opportunity to intercept someone’s life with and for good.

Teachers, are particularly blessed with many opportunities to do so. They shape the lives and influence the future of so many. We are forever grateful to the many who helped to influence us to be the best that we could be. They encouraged us to press on to accomplish noble tasks even though we were tired and drained.

Many, as they enter the golden years, can reminisce on the positive impact that they have had on society. The following story helps to bring this truth to the forefront: Years ago, a John Hopkin’s professor gave a group of graduate students this assignment: Go to the slums. Take 200 boys, between the ages of 12 and 16, and investigate their background and environment. Then predict their chances for the future.

The students, after consulting social statistics, talking to the boys, and compiling much data, concluded that 90 percent of the boys would spend some time in jail.

Twenty-five years later another group of graduate students was given the job of testing the prediction. They went back to the same area. Some of the boys - by then men - were still there, a few had died, some had moved away, but they got in touch with 180 of the original 200. They found that only four of the group had ever been sent to jail.

The most dangerous man in America ‘What you’re saying may get you a foundation grant, but it won’t get you into the kingdom of truth.’

Dr Martin Luther King, Jr., ‘Love of truth and Love of country could go hand in hand.’ Dr Cornel West.

Why was it that these men, who had lived in a breeding place of crime, had such a surprisingly good record? The researchers were continually told: “Well, there was a teacher...”

They pressed further, and found that in 75 percent of the cases it was the same woman. The researchers went to this teacher, now living in a home for retired teachers. How had she exerted this remarkable influence over that group of children? Could she give them any reason why these boys should have remembered her?

“No,” she said, “no I really couldn’t.”

And then, thinking back over the years, she said musingly, more to herself than to her questioners: “I loved those boys...”

We thank God for those dedicated teachers who love their students and their profession. They continue to play a major role in nation building. They do get tired too. With heavy workloads, demanding schedules, and some ungrateful parents (hopefully not many), they press on to deliver outstanding service at all levels of the profession. Many are thankful for the opportunity to influence the next generation. They are pleased for the opportunity to earn an honest living.

Several are grateful for the blessings they receive as they contribute to the development of their students and, by extension, their nation. But, being human, they periodically suffer from burn out too. This article therefore surfaces to remind all those engaged in the “education battles in the trenches” to not lose heart or hope. Even as they periodically grow weary — we are thankful.

It would be remiss of me if this article ended without drawing attention to the fact that there are multiple blessings that appear to emerge when we exhibit a spirt of gratitude. This is especially so when we appear to be laden down with situations that seem to suck the winds from our sails. The seas may look rough and treacherous. The winds and the waves may seem to batter us to pieces. Life’s challenges can tire us as we struggle to survive. However, we can be encouraged when we look back to see where God has brought us from.

And we can look forward to a new horizon of hope. We know that the storms will not last forever. We will get through the storm (in whatever shape it comes). We are thankful for the reminder that tough times never last but tough people do. We strengthen our resolve. We may be tried and tired … but we are so very thankful.

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

enslaved and Jim Crowed, terrorised, traumatised, and stigmatised by American laws and American citizens.

He called America a ‘sick society.’ ‘I have found out that all that I have been doing in trying to correct this system in America has been in vain. I am trying to get at the roots of it to see just what ought to be done. The whole thing will have to be done away with.

He asked Harry Belafonte days before his death, ‘Are we integrating into a burning house?’ He was weary of pervasive economic injustice, cultural decay, and political paralysis.

Dr King identified four catastrophes which must be fought: Militarism is an imperial catastrophe that has produced a military-industrial complex and national security state and warped the country’s priorities and stature.

Materialism is a spiritual catastrophe promoted by a corporatemedia and a culture industry that has hardened the hearts of hard-core consumers and coarsened the consciences of would-be citizens.

Racism is a moral catastrophe, most graphically seen in the prisonindustrial complex and targeted police surveillance in black and brown ghettos rendered invisible in public discourse. Arbitrary uses of the law in the name of the ‘war’ on drugs have produced a new Jim Crow of mass incarceration.

Poverty is an economic catastrophe, inseparable from the power of greedy oligarchs and avaricious plutocrats indifferent to the misery of poor children, elderly and disabled citizens, and working people.

For King, dissent did not mean disloyalty– in fact, dissent was a high form of patriotism. When he said that the US government was ‘the greatest purveyor of violence in the world today,’ he was not trashing America.

He was telling the painful truth about a country he loved. King was never anti-American; he was always antiinjustice in America and anywhere else. Love of truth and love of country could go hand-in-hand.

The radical King was a spiritual giant who tried to shatter the callousness and indifference of his fellow citizens. King believed that indifference to evil is more evil than evil itself. This spiritual crisis is not reducible to politics or economics. It is rooted in the relative decline of integrity, honesty, decency, and virtue, due in large part to the role of big money in American life. This cold hearted obsession with manipulation and domination drives our ecological catastrophe-in-the-making and our possible military Armageddon.

King knew that white supremacy was a global phenomenon. It remains shot through our hearts and minds, institutions and structures. Empire, white supremacy, capitalism, patriarchy, and homophobia are linked in complex ways, and our struggles against them require moral consistency and systemic analyses.

The response of the radical King to our catastrophic moment can be put in one word: revolution– a revolution in our priorities, a re-evaluation of our values, a reinvigoration of our public life, and a fundamental transformation of our way of thinking and living that promotes a transfer of power from oligarchs and plutocrats to everyday people and ordinary citizens.

DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. is much more than the I Have a Dream Speech we all know and love. Just before his death, 73 percent of all Americans and 53 percent of Black Americans were opposed to his work and ministry. There is a radical King we must come to know.

The FBI transcript of a June 27, 1964, phone conversation reveals Malcolm X receiving a message from Martin Luther King, Jr. This message supported the idea of getting the human rights declaration of the United Nations to expose the unfair, vicious treatment of black people in America.

Malcolm X replied that he was eager to meet Martin Luther King, Jr. If they had met and worked together, the radical King would be well known.

In a speech to his staff in 1966, King explained: ‘There must be a better distribution of wealth, and maybe America must move toward a democratic socialism.’ The radical King would be well known if he had lived and pursued this project.

On April 4, 1968, in Memphis– the last day of his life– Martin Luther King, Jr., phoned Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta with his Sunday sermon titled ‘Why America May Go to Hell.’ If he had preached this sermon, the radical King would be well known.

Yet in Dr. King’s own time, he would say repeatedly, ‘I am greatly saddened . . . that the inquirers have not really known me, my commitment, or my calling.’ Dr King refused to silence his voice in his quest for unarmed truth and unconditional love.

For King, the condition of truth was to allow suffering to speak; for him, justice was what love looks like in public. In King’s eyes, too many black leaders sacrificed the truth for access to and personal gain. This spiritual blackout among black leaders resulted in their use and abuse by the white political and economic establishment that constituted a kind of ‘conspiracy against the poor.’ This spiritual blackout–this lack of integrity and courage–primarily revealed a deep fear, failure of nerve, and spinelessness on behalf of black leaders. They too often were bootlickers for big monied interests, even as the boots were crushing poor and working people.

In stark contrast to this cowardice, King told his staff, ‘I’d rather be dead than afraid.’ Although much of America did not know the radical King–and too few know today–the FBI and the US government did. They called him ‘the most dangerous man in America.’ They knew Reverend King was a revolutionary Christian, sincere in his commitment and earnest in his calling.

They knew he was a product of a black prophetic tradition, full of fire in his bones, love in his heart, light in his mind, and courage in his soul. Martin Luther King, Jr. was the major threat to the US government and the American establishment because he dared to organise and mobilise black rage over past and present crimes against humanity, targeting black folk and other oppressed people.

The fundamental question is: Does America have the capacity to hear and heed the radical King, or must America sanitise King in order to evade and avoid his challenge? King indeed had a This piece is an excerpt from Cornel dream. But it was not the American dream. King’s dream was rooted in the West ‘The Radical King.’

American Dream–it was what the Send comments, criticisms & quest for life, liberty, and the pursuit suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com of happiness looked like for people

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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Sandals Stewart addresses students

ADAM STEWART, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, joined a diverse group of hospitality professionals at Florida International University (FIU) where he delivered the keynote address to some 400 students as well as faculty and industry stakeholders, during the 29th Annual Graduate Student Research Conference at the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Stewart, the head of the only super brand to have ever originated from the Caribbean, shared perspectives on hospitality leadership, Sandals’ journey in reframing luxury allinclusive travel and the exciting future of Caribbean tourism.

He also explored themes of empowerment through the Sandals Corporate University, the impact of the Sandals Foundation across the region and

also touched on the value of vision and ideas of courage in the face of risk.

“My job every day is that we want to share the best of the four corners of the Caribbean with the world. We’ve not only elevated the allinclusive concept but also debunked myths about the potential of our region. The all-inclusive segment, spearheaded by us, is thriving and transforming the leisure industry, he said.

And in elaborating on how the industry, in particular Sandals, is contributing to the growth and transformation of people and the Caribbean, Stewart posited, “… it is important to highlight that while we have the capability to innovate the all-inclusive experience and enhance the tourism industry with an exceptional product, our primary focus remains on making a genuine community impact. This

commitment to people goes beyond business, this aligns with the core values of Sandals and Beaches. We don’t just build resorts; we are creating change. As we expand to new destinations like Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, our goal is not just to build resorts, but to create a soulful, energy-infused environment.

With 98% of the almost 20,000 people who work within Sandals being Caribbean nationals, Stewart also placed emphasis on the importance of job creation among other key factors.

“Employment is the first thing. Taxes are the second thing. But the big ones are supply and consumption. So support local farmers. Find a way through this hospitality world that we live in to change people’s lives. Be emotionally connected to what you do. Working side by side, give them a

Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International (4th right) with FIU alumni, faculty members and other distinguished attendees at the 29th Annual Graduate Student Research Conference. (Source: Sandals Resort, SVG) product that’s bulletproof, give them a product that when the customer comes, you win every time because it’s that good., he

encouraged.

Stewart concluded with a reminder to the audience to embrace the powers within them, pay it forward, make a

meaningful impact and collectively shape a future where human values drive success.

(Source: Sandals Resort, SVG)

V North Leeward gets Technical Institute

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 11.

Education

Kay Martin Jack- Chief Education Officer – recognized the emphasis being place on technical education and noted that this was in keeping with the overall objective of the education policy here.

The North Leeward Technical Institute brings to five the number of technical institutes currently serving the state.

Rayon Murray came in for high praise for his overseeing of the Institute especially in its infancy stage.

RAYON MURRAY is the Deputy Principal of the Petit Bordel Secondary School. But from September 2023, he has been doing duties at the North Leeward Technical Institute (NLTI).

He needed no convincing that aligning Technical Murray sees over a slate of place last Monday in Petit youths with knowledge and Education with the overall at least 47 full time students. Bordel. skills for a sustainable future.” education agenda fitted ideally A number of other learners, Prime Minister Ralph She recognised the with the thrust towards from the Troumaca Ontario Gonsalves, Education Minister emphasis on this type of transforming our society.

Secondary School and the Curtis King, Tourism and education as fitting the And while he thought the Petit Bordel Secondary Culture Minister and agenda of ensuring that effort was bearing fruit, he Schools, attend the NLTI for parliamentary representative Technical and Vocational admitted, “We have to do more courses in Construction, House Carlos James, together with Education continues to to ensure our education Keeping, Food Preparation Chief Education Officer, Kay entrench itself in mainstream system remains relevant.” and Cake Baking.

Martin Jack addressed the education.

King is encouraging The NLTI began classes ceremony.

Martin Jack praised students at the Petit Bordel September 2023 with a staff of James praised Murray for Murray for his passion and Technical Institute to move on 16 and has served the the creativity with which the commended him for having to the Community College.

Secondary Schools in the staff has adapted to the gone “beyond to line of duty.”

“You are part of the future. constituency for their practical students and looked at the The Education Officer Take advantage of the examinations in Food and opening of tourism-related disclosed that students resources offered. Never give Nutrition, as part of their avenues as linking with pursuing courses in up on your dreams,” he Caribbean Secondary economic development.

Construction at the NLTI will advised.

Education Certificate (CSEC) He echoed his vision of be paid when they do The North Leeward programme. endorsing North Leeward as internships at the Kingstown Technical Institute is the fifth Overall, students are the “Eco-tourism” platform of Port during Easter and such institution to be evaluated for the Caribbean St. Vincent and the Summer holidays. established here. It joins Vocational Qualifications and Grenadines.

Education Minister Curtis similar establishments in National Vocational Chief Education Officer Kay King expressed happiness that Barrouallie, Campden Park, Qualifications.

Martin Jack looked at the his Ministry was providing Kingstown and Georgetown in The formal opening opening as “significant,” in students with knowledge and making up that number. ceremony of the NLTI took that it was “empowering skills to make them successful. (Stories by WKA)

PM Gonsalves lectures students the opening of the Petit Bordel Technical Institute, Monday 15th January, to point out some of his thinking on life and living.

Before he ventured into directly Prime Minister Dr. Ralph advising the gathering, Gonslavs shared some especially the students, lessons on life and on matters of life and living. living, he referenced the money allocated to VINCENTIAN PRIME education in the 2024 MINISTER DR RALPH Budget and declared: “we GONSALVES does not put our money where our miss an opportunity to mouth is.” advice students here.

He, however, wants He used an occasion of

students to pay attention to what the purpose of education should be, i.e. to “train critical minds to receive and transmit universal culture.”

He wants students to be keen on science and technology with emphasis on the Caribbean, and it must be relevant.

He is pushing for persons to be provided with skills to take care of the “production apparatuses in the modern economy we are building.”

There is focus on inculcating “tried and tested values of our Caribbean civilization and its Vincentian component.”

One must operate in a healthy mind and body, according to the Vincentian Prime Minister, so he advises persons to “eat sensibly,” and exercise.

Gonsalves sees himself as ‘Isaac,’ the son of Abraham, for he intends to live to be 110 years.

He couched the presentation as part his vision of developing the nation. That includes cultural and sporting projections.

“I am here to help you… to create opportunities for you.

You have to acquire skills to survive in a challenging world,” the Vincentian leader indicated.

He took a liking to Azacai ‘Dah D’ Edwards, a student of the Petit Bordel Secondary who, with an energetic and conscientious performance, entertained the ceremony with an original Dance Hall composition.

The number is receiving attention on its own, but it is expected to gain increased mileage having been posted on the Prime Minister’s Tik Tok page.

Caywama EdwardsCottle, a teacher at the Troumaca Ontario Secondary School also stirred the audience with her rendition of the song ‘If I could reach… higher’.

Azacai ‘Dah D’ Edwards captured the rapt attention of the audience with his Dance Hall rendition.

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12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

International

Taiwan elects new president narrower lead.

Lai Ching-te, a 64-year-old doctor turned politician and who served as vice-president to the outgoing Tsai Ing-wen, is now tasked with leading Taiwan through a testy relationship with China.

Already, observers are saying that how Mr Lai manages Beijing, and how Beijing reacts to him, will determine his presidency.

China’s Taiwan affairs office, responding to Lai’s win, said the result of the election would not stop “the general trend that the motherland will eventually and will inevitably be reunified”, this in the face of all major parties in Taiwan rejecting the prospect of Chinese rule.

But shortly after being announced as Taiwan’s presidentelect, Lai said it was a “victory for the community of democracies” around the world. He said voters had successfully resisted efforts from “external Incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen will forces” to influence step down in May after reaching a two- the election, in term limit. (Source: NPR) reference to Beijing’s

TAIWAN HAS VOTED for Lai Ching-te to be its next president.

In so doing, it marked a historic third term in power for the prosovereignty Democratic Progressive party (DPP), in a result that will anger Beijing and heighten tensions across the Taiwan strait.

Early results showed Lai had won about 40% of the vote, ahead of Hou You-yi from the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), and the third placed Taiwan People’s party. Pre-election polls had shown Lai with a much

Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te, also known as William Lai (right) celebrates with his running mate, Vice President-elect Bin-khim Hsiao and supporters in Taipei, Taiwan. (AP Photo) efforts to have the DPP ousted.

“Taiwanese people have the right to choose their own president,” he said.

The president elect, though,

will have to be politically astute as he works with a 113seat parliament in which his party lost control.

He pledged to work with the opposition parties and review their policies “as long as they bring benefit to the people”, indicating he anticipated a difficult parliament dominated by two opposition parties.

Lai, who comes from a more radical wing of the DPP, has pledged to follow Tsai’s careful balancing of the US and China, in which she avoided formalising Taiwan’s de facto independence — and antagonising Beijing — by saying Taiwan was already a sovereign nation, and defending the status quo. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to “re-unify” it with China, and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve that aim.

It has called the DPP a party of separatists, detests

Lai, and has twice sanctioned his new vice-president, Hsiao Bi-khim, who until recently served as Taiwan’s envoy to the US. So China, according to a BBC correspondent, “is extremely unlikely to agree to any dialogue with the new president”.

The two sides have had no formal communication since 2016. China suspended the channel at the time, infuriated

by Ms Tsai’s refusal to acknowledge that Taiwan was a part of the mainland.

Saturday’s verdict will mean a continuation of the very tense situation that already exists in the Taiwan Strait.

China may also step up economic and diplomatic pressure, by luring away more of the handful of small states that still recognise Taiwan, and sanctioning more Taiwanese companies, products and people.

Mr Lai’s strategy for facing down the Chinese military threat is to continue what Ms Tsai has done, promising to spend more on Taiwan’s military, continue the indigenous submarine building programme, and to build an even closer relationship with the United States, Japan and Europe. (Contributing sources: BBC, The Guardian)

V Vincy pastor wades into the Israeli-Hamas war

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 13.

Diaspora

Story and photo by NELSON A. KING US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

WHILE MANY – including several US nationals, state and local legislators, and members of the clergy are very reluctant to publicly voice their opinion on the Israel-Hamas war for fear of reprisals, Brooklyn, New York Pastor Louis Hilton Straker, Jr. does not hesitate to comment on the conflict.

Pastor Straker, who was born in Brooklyn to Vincentian Sir Louis H. Straker, Sr., a former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidadianborn Lady Linda Straker, told THE VINCENTIAN that he also wants “a permanent cease-fire and a peaceful return of all” hostages.

But Pastor Straker made it clear that his views are “personal and may not reflect or represent” those of Reflections Church, in the East Flatbush section of Brooklyn, of which he is the founder and lead pastor; or the 67th Precinct Clergy Council, Inc., otherwise known as “The GodSquad”, where he is an active member and serves as chairman of the Board.

Pastor Straker said “The GodSquad” is “the premier clergy-led, anti-gun violence organization in the City of New York,” under its Public Safety Coalition, combating gun violence and other related issues within the confines of the 67th Precinct in Brooklyn and throughout the city.

“I am hard pressed to find

lives that were stolen not only by way of fatality, but also some 250 people who were taken as hostages during one of the worst terrorist attacks in modern history,” he added.

“Unfortunately, this bloodshed was met with even more bloodshed, predominantly by way of Israeli forces’ counterattack in response to Oct. 7.”

As any nation, Pastor Straker said Israel has a right to defend herself, but asked, “Against whom? Is it against Hamas or is it against all Palestine?”

As the death toll rises in Gaza, with over 23,000 killed and over 58,000 injured, he said many are left to ponder these questions.

“Who is the enemy?” Pastor Straker asked. “If you ask a majority of people with good conscience, they would emphatically declare Hamas as the enemy. However, of the approximately 23,000 Palestinians killed, Israeli forces estimate 8,000 Hamas soldiers have been captured or killed.

“This has left many to wonder, how does the Israeli Government justify the disproportionate amount of civilian casualties, all in the name of ‘national security Israel’s right to defend itself defense’, and the desire to wipe out Hamas?” he further “This heinous act of violence asked.

(Oct. 7, 2023) not only Pastor Straker said the destroyed the lives of death toll of innocent approximately 1200 people, Palestinians has caused many but also the family and loved to question whether this is ones who mourn their loss,” “retributive actions taken said Pastor Straker. against Hamas or a mass He added, “My heart goes genocide of the Palestinian out to everyone enduring people.” unimaginable grief due to the “The answer to this is not

any morally upstanding and conscionable human being that can honestly justify the vicious attack on the lives of innocent men, women and children at the hands of the terrorist organization known as Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023,” said Pastor Straker, who also serves on the Advisory Council for the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in East Flatbush and “a proud member” of Mayor Eric Adams’ Caribbean Advisory Council, under the auspices of the New York City Office of the Mayor - Community Affairs Unit.

Shirley Anita Chisholm, née St. Hill — who was born in Brooklyn on Nov. 30, 1924 and died on Jan. 1, 2005 — was the daughter of Barbadian and Guyanese immigrants.

According to Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia, in 1968, Chisholm became the first Black woman to be elected to the United States Congress, serving seven terms (1969 — 1983), and was the first Black candidate for a major-party nomination for President of the US and the first woman to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination.

The carnage of war. Palestinians look for survivors following an Israeli airstrike in the Nusseirat refugee camp in Gaza.

as simple as what one would see with their two eyes,” he said, adding that “without the proper perspective, one might conclude that this is an Israeli-Palestinian conflict, when, in actuality, it is not a battle with Palestine, but an Israeli-Hamas war with massive civilian deaths.”

Pastor Straker said “it is no secret that Hamas has been using Palestinians as human shields in hopes of evading Israeli counter-attacks, believing Israel’s discretion in minimizing civilian casualties would result in their favor.

“However, many question if that is truly so,” he said, noting that the media Pastor Louis H. Straker, Jr. coverage, via social networks offers invocation during that have flooded timelines Caribbean-American History and news feeds globally, “has Month celebrations at Gracie been inundated with photography and video footage Mansion, New York City of heart-wrenching images of Mayor’s official residence, in innocent Palestinians, who June 2023. have become casualties of war just as much as those whose this, innocent people continue lives were initially targeted on to suffer and hostages are still Oct. 7.” unaccounted for,” Pastor Straker said. “From day one, I Worldwide protests/tension believe the primary focus in this tragic ordeal has been Pastor Straker recognized lost, and continues to that, “This (ongoing conflict) overshadow the return of the has resulted in a global outcry hostages kidnapped and for a permanent cease-fire and separated from their family an end to the siege on Gaza,” and homes. adding, “protests from all “This should have been around the world have paramount in Israel’s erupted, many in support of mission,” he posited, noting the Palestinian people, whose that a global call for a lives have been thrown into “humanitarian pause” resulted chaos due to Israeli air strikes in a week-long cease-fire that and ground attacks that have resulted in 110 hostages being cut off valuable resources and released. destroyed over 100,000 “Why this was not pursued buildings.” initially is beyond me,” Pastor Consequently, he said this Straker said. “I am a firm has created “great tension believer that Hamas must be worldwide - some violent stopped and eradicated, as between pro-Israeli and prowith all terrorist organizations Palestinian supporters.” no matter where they are.

Pastor Straker said the “But we must bring those conflict has also “stifled the who were kidnapped home voices of those of good now!” he urged, declaring that conscience in fear of being the bloodshed of innocent labeled antisemitic or Palestinians and the Islamophobic for speaking up destruction of Gaza have for what they believe is truth.” “produced nothing but Additionally, he said many outrage, division, strife, envy, politicians have “turned a hate and a deeper polarization blind eye to the injustice, as of people against one another. they have become beholden to “In fact, while the Israeli the support of one particular Government believes that it is group over another.” doing what is most prudent in Pastor Straker, therefore, destroying Hamas at any cost, infused the views of slain US my fear is they may be civil rights leader, the Rev. Dr. radicalizing a whole new Martin Luther King, Jr., “who generation due to the unjust once said, ‘Our lives begin to killing of innocent people,” end the day we become added Pastor Straker, stating silent about things that that “it is time for Israel to matter’, that ‘Injustice reevaluate its mission and anywhere is a threat to justice overall strategy and consider everywhere’, and ‘The day we that which will result in a see the truth and cease permanent cease-fire and a to speak is the day we begin to peaceful return of all die’”. kidnapped on that dreadful “Yet, in the midst of all of day. #BringThemHomeNow.”

14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 15.

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16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

A delay in the arrival of the lighting system for the Arnos Vale Playing Field, should not interfere with the date projected for completion of works there.

Lighting delay at Arnos Vale Playing Field VIOLENCE IN THE RED SEA has resulted in a delay in the arrival of the lights that are expected to be installed at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, which is going through an upgrade in readiness for hosting matched of T20 World Cup later this year.

So said Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves on Jan. 17, as he updated the nation on the current progress of the repair and rehabilitation project.

Part of the work including in the upgrade ids the installation of lights, and according to Gonsalves, they were already procured from a company in China at a cost of $12.6 million.

However, the recent

attacks by the Houthis group out of Yemen on commercial cargo vessels using the Red Sea mean that there will be a delay in the arrival of the lights.

Houthi rebels, who are backed by Iran, have steeped up attacks on cargo vessels since the start of the IsraelHamas war last October.

This has resulted in ships that use the route south to reach Egypt’s Suez Canal being diverted through the Cape of Good Hope’, increasing the time for the delivery of goods and cost.

“That’s how war and conflict humbug all of us,” Gonsalves said.

“So, there’s a little

delay, but we’ll be on target,” he continued.

The prime minister told the nation that he met with stakeholders involved in the project earlier this week.

Other work expected on the Arnos Vale Playing Field include structural and other work on the bleachers, double decker, Frank Thomas, P.H. Veira and Mike Findlay pavilions.

Expected also are upgrades to the administrative building and media centre.

And according to Gonsalves, some ancillary work is also expected at Arnos Vale 2, Cumberland and the Sion Hill playing fields.

(DD)

New minimum wage for SVG AS OF MARCH 01, 2024, no full-time worker in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will receive a salary of less than $50 a day, which means that workers will make at least EC$1,000 a month.

This was the assurance given by Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves during his presentation of EC$1.6 billion 2024 Budget to Parliament, January 08.

He told the Parliament, that in some extreme cases the adjustments will result in increases of up to 75% for monthly paid workers and 56% for full time daily-paid workers, relative to the previous minimum wages.

However, “In most cases… the increase will be a more modest 20%,” he said.

With particular focus on Civil Servants, Minister Gonsalves noted that this year marked the second consecutive year that civil servants’ salaries were being adjusted, this in addition to raising the income tax threshold to $25,000.00 from $22,000.00.

Civil Servants will receive a 2% increase in 2024, with nursing assistants and nursing aides getting

All public sectors workers will have more money to take home in 2024, said the Finance Minister. an extra 5% above the 2% as negotiated for all public servants.

The 2% increase in 2024 follows on a 2.5% increase in 2023. A 2.5% increase is promised for 2025.

Gonsalves said that in arriving at the new minimum wages, the Wages Council, paid specific attention to the low wage jobs that are disproportionately staffed by women.

Among these were cashiers, sales clerks, cleaners, cooks, food servers, receptionists, housekeepers, domestic workers, and caregivers for children and the elderly.

“Budget 2024 therefore ensures that all public sectors will be paid more and all workers will keep more of their salary in 2024,” Minister Gonsalves reasoned.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 17.

Regional

Mixed reactions to Taiwan election

PM Roosevelt Skerrit – pro People’s Republic of China.

PM Gaston Browne – pro People’s Republic of China.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves – pro Republic of China (Taiwan).

“THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE of St. Vincent and the Grenadines look forward to a further strengthening of our excellent relations with the government and people of the Republic of China (Taiwan).”

This sentiment was contained in a congratulatory letter which Prime Minister Dr. ralph Gonsalves dispatched to Taiwan on the very day, January 13, 2024, when Lai Ching-te and his running mate, Binkhim Hsiao, were elected President and Vice President respectively.

He congratulated the men on what he described as a “magnificent triumph.”

This sentiment would have been expected, given that Taiwan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1981, with each country having resident ambassadors assigned.

Those relations have been said to have strengthened since the Unity Labour Party assumed the seat of national administration here.

But there was a seemingly counter position offered up by at least two Caribbean governments in the aftermath of the elections.

Both Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda used the occasion to reiterate their support and commitment for the ‘One China Policy’, and for the peaceful reunification of the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan.

In an official statement, The Government of Dominica said, “…it is widely accepted that the future of Taiwan remains a matter within the internal affairs of the People’s Republic of China.”

Dominica stated that “the Taiwanese Presidential election has always been viewed as part of China’s internal politics and has in no way been interpreted as an act that can lawfully bring about the independence of Taiwan.”

The statement added that Dominica “has maintained deep and friendly relations with the People’s Republic of China since 2004, and remains committed to strengthening the bonds of its enduring friendship.”

And the Antigua and Barbuda government, in a statement from the Prime Minister’s office, reiterated its support for the ‘One China Policy’, and noted that Antigua and Barbuda “has never shifted allegiance to the Peoples Republic of China” since its independence in 1981.

The statement added that Antigua and Barbuda is dedicated to the international principles of non-interference in sovereign states’ internal affairs, and asked other countries to let China handle its disputes with Taiwan.

According to the office of the Prime Minister, Antigua and Barbuda supports China’s efforts “to reunify with Taiwan based on the One China Policy.” (Sources: Caribbean News Agencies)

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18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Have some respect, man Dear George, AFTER a few weeks of dating, my ‘girlfriend’ want to call it off. The issue is, one night I was at her house and things got heated and I wanted to have her there and then.

However, with her 7-year-old sleeping on her own bed but in the same room, she was not comfortable doing anything with her daughter in the same room. This after she who told me her daughter falls to sleep early and does not wake up until morning.

She does not want to go at my house because according to her it is too soon to visit a man’s house and “it would not look good.”

I am beginning to be convinced that she is just leading me on with a plan to suck my funds dry and I have already spent $1,000.00 on her. I am this close to walking away. Do you think I am being too hasty?

Think I’m Being Played.

Dear Think I’m Being Played, Why do you think it is well and good to engage in sexual activity in a room in which a 7-year-old is present?

It is irrelevant whether she is asleep or not.

Your girlfriend seems to have her head on and thinking right. A relationship is not all about sex and it is much too soon for you to be so consumed by the prospects of it.

Spend more time getting to know her and her child so that her thoughts of you would be admirable and so that she could see you as a fitting addition to her life and the ideal father figure for her daughter.

If you still decide to walk away then probably you would be doing her a huge favour.

George.

Ask for your money Dear George, A FRIEND owes me $600.00 which I can well do with to pay my light bill. However, I am hesitant about asking her for the money since I don’t want to do anything to destroy our friendship of many, many years.

What is surprising is someone told me someone borrowed $200.00 from this same friend who owes me the $600.00. Should I bring this up when I ask for my money?

Ticklish.

Dear Ticklish, No need to make mention of that $200.00.

The $600.00 is yours and you have every right to ask for it. This is not the time to worry yourself about being afraid to ask for what is rightfully yours because you feel it might destroy your friendship. If it happens that way, then your friendship was not

as strong as you thought. Ask away!

George.

All is not lost Dear George, I AM WORKING at a reputable business but I cannot make ends meet. I have two children and no man in my life. One of the fathers went to prison and he is finding it hard to get a job and the other skipped the country.

Every month I have to beg my family overseas for help. Obviously, they are beginning to ask questions like how is it that I have a good job but never have money. The truth is my salary just takes care of the bills.

George, it hurts see my children go to bed hungry and that happens very often. I am ashamed to go to the Social Welfare because of the ‘run-mouth’ people there. I have a feeling if I talk to my boss he will help, but he might ask for sexual favours and if I refuse, that could cost me my job.

George I am simply stuck. I hope you can help me.

Need a Way Out. Dear Need a Way Out, Your situation is a grave one demanding urgent action. As bad as things are, you need to exploit every available opportunity that can help to get you back on level footing.

You will not know how Social Welfare can help unless you go to them. Put your personal feelings aside and do this for your children. Talking to your boss may be a good thing and it won’t hurt to try. Should he step out of line then you deal with that after seeking the best advice.

Sometimes personal pride must be sidelined in order to get the help that’s needed. If you think you need more support to help you explore your options, then I suggest you contact The Marion House and speak to a counsellor there.

George.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Try to avoid functions that will bring you in contact with those you find difficult to get along with. You may want to take a look at the personal papers of elders in your family. You need a job with more responsibility and a higher wage.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Try not to overspend on friends or family. The locks, stove, gas, or electric wires may not be secure. Don't let your lover put demands on you. You can make money through solid investment plans.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Sudden changes of heart may cause disruptions in your domestic scene. You need to take a good look at all sides of an issue before making a decision. Travel will be on your mind, but you should be sure that you've got all your work up-todate. Help elders with their concerns.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will benefit by taking care of other people's concerns. Older family members may take advantage of you by making you feel guilty. Your partner will blow situations out of proportion. You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal.

to get a lot done.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) In-laws or older individuals may give you a bit of a hard time this week. Your uncanny insight will help you make the right choices. You will be popular with acquaintances; however, loved ones could feel left out and insecure. You need to refrain from being the generous one in the group.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Minor health problems could result through exhaustion. Do things that involve children. You need to make your lover feel wanted, not like a piece of the furniture.

Take your time.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't let your work and your personal life interfere with each other. Trips should be your choice. It's time to reevaluate your motives. Your family needs to spend some time with you, too.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don't fall into the trap. Don't turn down offers that include sports activities or children. Make changes around your house and plan to do some entertaining. Your boss may not be in the best of moods this week.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Spend some quality time with your lover.

You'll be an emotional basket case this week. Don't take any comments too seriously. Courses dealing with psychology or health care will be of interest. You can make favorable real estate offers this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Abrupt changes concerning your professional position are evident. Social evenings at your place will be highly successful. You need to keep busy doing things that you both enjoy. Avoid getting too close to coworkers or employers.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Opportunities to make money may interfere with your personal plans. Put your thoughts into some trendy new ideas. You need to spend some time pampering yourself. You should be able

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Be aware that you don't get anything for nothing. The home environment will be unpredictable this week. Use your charm, but don't sign or agree to anything. Don't overindulge in anyway.

ACROSS 1. Ardent 6. “That’s funny!”

12. Beneficiary 13. Amends 16. Canada’s highest mountain 17. Lowest female voice 18. Residents, suffix 19. Over 20. Layer 21. Fruit from a bush 23. Sign in the zodiac 24. Courtship songs 25. Heads-up 27. Classroom communications 28. Ukraine seaport 29. Waited 30. Media 31. Juries 33. Bunches 34. “Oh my heavens!”

35. Many a McDonald’s worker 39. Inform (on) 40. Education innovator 41. Fellow 42. Made disorderly 43. “September ___” (Neil Diamond hit) 44. Begins 46. They’re nuts 47. Position of dominance 48. Grill 49. Plant bur 50. Get fooled DOWN 1. Goes off script

2. Hang around 3. No longer in neutral 4. Moved up again 5. Bard’s nightfall 6. Merits 7. Fidgety 8. Towel inscription 9. G.P. grp.

10. Incapable 11. head branches 13. Consented 14. Baseball brothers Joe and Frank 15. Sequoia, e.g.

19. Lets up 22. Rounded hills 25. Highly skilled workers 26. Central concept of minimalism 28. Pontificated

29. Very quickly 30. Most cheeky 31. Qajar dynasty’s domain 32. Next to 33. Beck’s surname 35. Mail service, pertaining to 36. Scratch

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 19.

37. Mistakes section 38. Removed shampoo 40. Civil War general 42. Time segments, abbr.

45. Indian export 46. Cold War grp.

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20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. THE VINCENTIAN

Kai conquers the Bequia channel

Kai Marks Dasent nearing the Bequia Head, an area of sea that is said to be challenging for most sailors. regattas.

The route, from the Blue THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Vincentian Lagoon markers in St Vincent sailor Kai Marks Dasent has to the Devil’s Table marker in accomplished a remarkable feat. Bequia, showcased Kai’s On Sunday 14th January sailing prowess, navigating 22024 the young man sailed 10 meter rollers with confidence miles from St. Vincent to in approximately 12 to 15 Bequia, completing the journey knots of wind. in 1 hour and 12 minutes, Reflecting on the experience, setting a record for future Kai enthusiastically shared, “I attempts, and in the process loved it, the surfing was my raised funds for he and his favourite part. I was really teammates to participate in happy with my boat, which was international sailing donated by Queen Mary competitions, with his goal of Sailing Club in the UK and reaching the Olympics in 2028. shipped over by Kestrel Liners, According to a reliable so a huge thank you to them. source, sailing is an expensive And I’m so excited to be sport with costs like hiring of attending the international boats and equipment at regattas with my teammates”. venues. Parents and As Kai set sail, he was guardians are required to cheered on by a supportive contribute over half the crowd of family and friends required finances toward who gathered to wish him good facilitating their cares’ luck. In Bequia, Kai was participation in international welcomed by Kerry from Bar Photo Credit: Sebastian Cyrus

One as he reached Devils Table, adding a touch of community celebration to the accomplishment.

Sabrina Marks-Dasent, Kai’s mother, expressed pride in her son’s determination and the family’s collective effort to make his dream a reality. “Kai has raised enough money to contribute to two international events this year for the Vincy Sailing team: the Open Skiff North American Championships in Augusta, Georgia, where Vincy Sailing has a team of three including Kai attending, and the Antigua National Championships, team to be decided, where he aims to surpass his silver medal from last year,” she stated.

The avid sailor expressed gratitude to all of his sponsors, notably highlighting the significant support from his family, especially his mother Sabrina, father Brian, and brother Rio. The sail garnered substantial support from various sponsors in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, such as Bar One, Jaden Sun, Dell’s Apartments, Mustique Company, Cafe Soleil, KFC, Dive SVG, ECMIL, Minors

Kai Marks Dascent (3rd from left) is sent off on his journey by family member, including mother Sabrina (3rd from right) and father Brian (extreme left).

Hardware, Last Bar Before the Jungle, Mayreau and Sugar Apple Bequia.

This feat puts Kai well on his way to achieving the Vincy Sailing team’s fundraising target. with hopes of attracting larger sponsors in the future to help fulfil his Olympic dream.

The journey was

documented by API and Naralayo Media, capturing the spirit of Kai’s achievement.

This record-breaking sail not only marks a personal triumph for Kai Marks Dasent but also symbolizes the strength of community support in realising dreams. (Source: Sabrina Marks Dasent)

Glasgow: Top SVGCA 2023 Awardee

Obed McCoy – joint International Cricketer of the Year.

Kenneth Dember – Regional Cricketer of the Year.

Geneille Greaves Youth Jannilea Glasgow - Youth Female, Cricketer of the Year, the Cinda Bobb Regional Regional and joint International Female Cricketer of the Cricketer of the Year.

Year and the Winston Davis International WEST INDIES FEMALE Cricketer of the Year, which PLAYER Jannilea Glasgow she shared with West Indies walked away with three fast bowler Obed McCoy. awards at the St. Vincent and The other awardees the Grenadines Cricket recognised for their Association Inc. Annual performances in 2023 were: Awards and Gala Dinner for its Kirtney Franklyn — the Paddy 2023 Cricket season, held at Thomas Male Youth Cricketer; the Comsport Facility, Arnos and Anicka Porter - Phernal Vale, on Saturday, 13th Charles Local Female January. cricketer. Dillon Douglas was Glasgow was adjudged

Dillon Douglas – Local Male Cricketer of the Year.

awarded the Lance John Local Male Cricketer; Kenneth Dember — the Michael Findlay Regional Male Cricketer of the Year.

Also on the receiving end of awards was Samantha Lynch of United Survivors who scored the most runs (91) and was the Best All-rounder in the Women’s Super-40. Anicka Porter of Northern Girls took the most wickets (6).

North Windward Volcano’s Denson Hoyte scored the most runs (331); Chelson Stowe of Bequia took the most wickets

Anicka Porter - Local Female Cricketer of the Year.

(28); and North Windward Volcano’s Kirton Lavia was the Best Allrounder (165 runs and 18 wickets) in the NLA First Division.

The Zepton Greaves Award for the Best All-rounder in the NLA Premier Division was copped by Police Two’s Dillon Douglas. He amassed 320 runs and took 30 wickets. Flow Radcliffe’s Asif Hooper took the most wickets (45) and Hyron Shallow of Carlos Veira Rivals scored the most runs (483).

Collecting team awards were United Survivors, winner of

Kirtney Franklyn - Male Youth Cricketer of the year. the Women’s Super-40; Smashers — victors in the NLA First Division; and FLOW Radcliffe — Champions of the Premiere Division.

Two retired umpires — Dillon Child and Ivan “Eddie” Williams- were also recognized at the ceremony. (See separate story on PAGE 22.)

Deighton Butler delivered the feature address.

I.B.A. ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 21.

Sports

Five in SVGFF’s Presidential Race Manager- Renson Haynes.

The five presidential candidates are among 33 who will be seeking the positions available.

Four are listed for the position of First VicePresident: Dominique Stowe, Elroy Boucher, Leslie Millington and Rohan Thomas Jr. Debson Cruickshank, Nadichia Browne, Roxell John, Trevor Huggins and Yosiah Dascent will battle for the post of Second Vice-President, with the incumbent - Dwight Roberts, Elron Lewis and Kal King in quest of the position of Third VicePresident.

And, there are a whopping sixteen candidates vying for the five Committee Members’ spots.

These are Arrington Burgin, Deptor Culzac, Dwight Baptiste, Gregory Matthias, Germano Douglas, James Browne, Iyakie Wayne Grant Renson Haynes

AN UNPRECEDENTED five persons will be vying for the presidency of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).

When the nominations were submitted last Friday, January 12, 2024, former President Marvin Fraser, along with current President — Carl Dickson were listed as candidates.

They will be joined by current First VicePresident of the SVGFF - Otashie Spring; Second Vice-President of the SVGFF - Wayne Grant; and former national player and Senior Men’s team

Marvin Fraser

Otashie Spring

Daniel, Keith Duncan, Koyana Horne, Otnell Douglas, Tamara Barrow, Tameisha Johnson, Timora Peters, Rosalo Mc Kie, Warren Ollivierre and Yoland London.

The nomination of candidates forms the first Carl Dickson phase of the process under the new statutes of the SVGFF which also require that the candidates avail themselves of an Integrity Check, which was set for Tuesday 16th January.

Thereafter on Friday of this week, affiliates will be informed of the respective candidates who will contest their positions.

Also, on January 19th, the agenda of the Congress will be made known to the affiliates.

The annual Congress takes place on 27th January at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown.

Martin unfazed by overtures

EARDLEY MARTIN, President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Volleyball Association, said he is not fazed by the “personal “attacks on him, however, he will be assessing his position given the current rancour in the organisation.

“I am a Deacon with the Catholic Church and in my position, I cannot and should Eardley Martin, President of the SVG Volleyball Association remains firm in his position.

not be engaged in the back-and-forth issues with the clubs who are against my presidency,” Martin told the VINCENTIAN last Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

Martin said that he thought that any internal matters of the “Volleyball Family” should be dealt with in-house, but that has not been the case.

“One who is against my presidency took to social media and vented, but when my family has to be dragged into this, I will have to think twice,” Martin commented.

The apparent discord has been ventilated by two affiliates - Gremlins and Country Roots - who have petitioned for an Extra Ordinary Meeting to be convened.

In December last year, there was a move to have a vote of No Confidence against the Executive. That move hit a constitutional snag.

Martin acknowledged that his Executive which was elected in 2022, has had four resignations, however, efforts are being pursued to have the positions filled in accordance with the constitution.

The SVGVA President said that despite the current situation, the two major events planned the National Beach Volleyball Championship set for January 27, 2024, and the National Volleyball Championships, slated to commence, February 3, 2024 - are still on the cards.

At present, the SVGVA comprises five clubsGremlins, Country Roots, Alliance, Eagles and Unique Touch.

Cane End Netball gets going A TOTAL of ten teams spread equally between two divisions, will compete for top honors in the second edition of the Cane End Netball Association Poppy’s Fun Food & Flow Netball Tournament.

The Tournament got going last Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the recently refurbished and commissioned Glenside Recreational Facility, Mesopotamia.

In one of two opening matches played, Conquerors out classed Glenside Ball Blazers 28-6 in a Division Two encounter.

In the other match, a First Division match-up, Star Girls romped past Vultures, 65-51.

Division One will feature competition among Vultures, Star Girls, Sion Hill Netters, Nature Care Avengers and Police.

Division Two features Conquerors, Glenside Ball It is the first time that the newly commissioned Glenside recreational facility is being used to host a netball competition.

Blazers, All Star, JLC Warriors and Blaze Strikers.

According to organisers of the Tournament, teams in the Division One will play for trophies and cash prizes of $1,200, $800 and $500; while those in Division Two will compete for trophies and prizes of $700, $500 and $300.00.

Matches are scheduled for

Action in Conquerors and Glenside Ball Blazers match, one of the opening matches played last Sunday in the Cane End Netball Tournament.

Saturdays and Sundays only with a closing date of March 03 set for this year’s Tournament.

I.B.A. ALLEN

V

22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Shamar Joseph in testing times HOWEVER that first Test of the 2024 series featuring West Indies and Australia pans out, Shamar Joseph will be one to remember.

At 133 for 9, he entered arena Adelaide Oval.

He was making his debut. That was in the 49th over of the match. One could be forgiven for thinking that it was a One Day International, but it was not.

Australia sent in the West Indies in unusual circumstances and the plan paid dividends.

Australia had assessed that this was an inexperienced out, and it was better getting the job done sooner than later. From 98 for 3 at one stage, the West Indies slipped.

Kirk McKenzie, 50, fell at 107, having shared a 46-run fourth wicket stand with Kavem Hodge, 12. Australia continued the destruction with Justin Greaves at 108, and seemed to have wrapped it up with dismissals of Joshua DaSilva, Gudakesh Motie and Alzarri Joseph in the space of one run.

Shamar Joseph’s entered. Many stories have been unearthed about him since his exposure at the Caribbean Premier League last year.

He added intrigue at Adelaide. His batting was pure courage and bolstered the Caribbean pride.

He rallied with Kemar Roach to register the innings’ highest partnership. As low as a total of 188 was, there was a sigh of relief.

Shamar Joseph made statements, about himself and to the rest of the West Indies. He stood the test, having been struck on the grill by Mitchell Starc, in the bruising encounter. His 36 off 41 balls with three fours and one six, came in that 55-run last wicket stand with Kemar Roach, 17, who faced 42 deliveries, and hit two fours and a six.

But Shamar was not done. He removed Steven Smith with his first delivery, caught at third slip by Justin Greaves. He added Marnus Lambuschagne who in attempting to hook a bouncer was caught on the square leg boundary

by Gudakesh Motie.

The first day ended with Australia 59 for 2 trailing by 129 runs.

West Indies have to improve their batting by leaps and bounds if they are to be a force to reckon with or indeed stretch this match. In any event, we have our record to protect and we can’t allow ourselves to be the object of scorn. So we have to act in the only way that that counts, and that is by landing punches.

There is no gain in enduring pain. For whatever it’s worth, humanity must respect the differences of everyone and be at peace with each other.

ÂHave a plan,Ê Butler urges “THERE IS A lot there for you to achieve as cricketers, but you must have a purpose – a plan.”

This was the underlying theme of Deighton Butler’s feature address at the SVG Cricket Association 2023 Annual Awards and Gala Dinner, held at the Comsport Facility, Arnos Vale, on Saturday 13th January.

The SVG-born international umpire and former ODI and T20 West Indies player, in a direct appeal to current and aspiring players, cautioned, “We cannot wake up overnight and turn up and represent the West Indies cricket team. We all have dreams and as a cricketer if your dream is not to represent the maroon colour, then you are not serious about cricket.

“I know there is a lot of franchise cricket going on today and everybody wants to play T20 an d T10 cricket with the idea to make money but in other to make money, we have to position ourselves to make sure we are in a position to grab these

opportunities but first to represent the regional team.”

He urged young cricketers to embrace as their first goal, representing the West Indies whether male or female.

He reasoned that it is when you have established yourself as an international cricketer, playing for your country, that you will get recognition and thereafter, opportunities in franchise cricket open. He referenced the players who are making strides as having gone this route.

Aside to setting a clear purpose and working to a plan, Butler, appealed to the players to focus on their fitness, which, he admitted, is one of the most challenging requirements for the players to adopt.

“You do not need a coach to get fit, you could get fit on your own, you could set a standard for yourself, so you need to make use of what is available to you, and put in the effort,” he explained.

And in conclusion, Butler

Deighton Butler feature address included a string appeal to young cricketers to devise a plan to inform their reason for and approach to playing the sport. posited, “The journey might be rough but when you are at the top it’s better and you have choices.

So, don’t focus on the money too early, establish yourself, put in the hard work, do what you are supposed to do in terms of getting yourself ready.”

Child, Williams honoured by SVGCA TWO OF THIS country’s longstanding and dedicated cricket umpires - Dillon Child and Ivan “Eddie” Williams - both of the Sion Hill community, were honored by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association for the contribution to the sport.

Both gentlemen were recognized at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc. 2023 Annual Awards and Gala Dinner, held at the Comsport facility, Arnos Vale, January 13.

Dillon Child Dillon Child began his umpiring career in 1979 and became a fully qualified umpire in 1983 having completed his West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA) accreditation over two-year period. He retired in 2019.

Dillon Child former Child stood in many local and Ivan “Eddie” Williams national umpire Windward Islands matches as well as in Junior West Indies matches.

His lone deployment in a regional first-class Ivan Williams game was as a standby umpire in a Windward Islands versus Guyana at the Arnos Vale Playing Ivan “Eddie” Williams began his umpiring career Field. He also umpired in practice matches played between regional teams and the Windward Islands. in 1981.

In 1984 he successfully completed the written, He fondly recalls officiating in a benefit match in practical and oral requirements of the WICUA the 1980s for Windward Island greats Michael Findlay and the late Irvin Shillingford at the Arnos examination.

He umpired in numerous local cricket matches, Vale Playing Field.

After a career which spanned four decades, Child and gave much service to primary and secondary retired from ‘standing in the middle’ and now offers schools’ cricket competitions. He was actively his service and experience as a mentor and teacher. involved in Windward Islands Cricket Tournaments at the under-15 and under-19 levels.

He completed four decades of umpiring before retiring from active duty in 2023, during which time he also served as President of the SVG Cricket Umpires Association from 2008 and 2012.

He enjoys the memories of his time in the middle and especially those times working with Dillon Child and Calvert McDonald.

Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024. 23.

Classifieds

Supervisor fined for gun and bullets From Page 4.

But the Senior Magistrate said he was not going to look at that issue because he had no intention of imposing a suspended sentence. He said he looked at the medical document, and he would not question what the experts said.

“I am inclined to accept their (doctors’) recommendations, and what was said before”, the Magistrate contended, adding that each case must be assessed on its own set of facts and circumstances. He then imposed the fines.

NILIO ATILIO GUMBS Thursday, 18th January, 2024 Kingstown Methodist Church Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

SYLVIA MC CAUL

GEORGE GRANTLEY KING a.k.a. Gee or Cheng Sing

Wednesday, 17th January, 2024 S.D.A Church, Kingstown Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 12:00 noon Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Tuesday, 16th January, 2024 6W 3DXO¶V 6SLULWXDO %DSWLVW &KXUFK Sion Hill Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

TERRON FREDERICK JUNIOR TANNIS

MARIE LOUISE HUGGINS

Saturday, 13th January, 2024 Kingstown Methodist Church Viewing: 9:00 a.m.

Service: 10:00 a.m Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Saturday, 13th January, 2024 6W 3DXO¶V Anglican Church, Calliaqua Viewing: 9:00 a.m.

Service: 10:00 a.m Interment: St. 3DXO¶V &KXUFK\DUG Cemetery

NORMA ALVIA LOUISA STEPHENS & JOSEPH AGNEW STEPHENS Wednesday, 10th January, 2024 Georgetown Methodist Church Service: S P Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2024

VOLUME 118, No.03

www.thevincentian.com

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MAGISTRATE RECUSES HIMSELF

by HAYDN HUGGINS SENIOR Magistrate Colin John, on Tuesday, recused himself from a matter pending since he was Commissioner of Police.

While the Senior Magistrate contended that he could dispense justice fairly in the matter, he said that in the interest of justice, and to avoid the defendants having any doubts, he would recuse himself.

As a result, the Magistrate adjourned the matter to January 23 and transferred it to the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court.

The Magistrate’s decision came Attorney Grant Connell requested that the magistrate recus himself so that ‘justice would not only be done, but would be seen to be done’.

following written and oral submissions by attorney Grant Connell who requested the recusal on behalf of his clients.

The matter involves minibus driver Elford Stephens of Glen and his conductor Micah Horne of Belmont, who are facing several charges in connection with an incident at Richmond Hill on September 22, 2023, involving Station Sergeant Kenny Jones, second-in-command of the Traffic Department of the Police Force.

Stephens is charged with assaulting Jones, causing him bodily harm, damaging a wrist watch valued US$25 and belonging to Jones. and making use of indecent language to Jones, to wit, “what kinda (expletive) seat belt, way de (expletive) do alyo, everyday alyo harassing people”.

Stephens is also charged with being the driver of motor vehicle H519, while on the public road, and requested by a police officer in uniform to produce his driving permit for examination, did failed to do so.

Horne is charged with assaulting Jones, causing him bodily harm, and obstructing Jones, he being a police officer acting in the due execution of his duties.

Connell submitted on January 15,

that Stephens alleges that, following the incident, Station Sergeant Jones physically abused him at the Central Police Station, and he (Stephens) made a report to the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the Police Force, but there was no redress.

“The defendants have opined that as Commissioner of Police, you (John) would have been in a position to address the issue, but to date, if it was brought to your attention, addressed, or still pending, creates the uncertainty of your being impartial in this case”, Connell said He added that both Stephens and Horne alleges that when officer Jones abused Stephens, Stephens indicated that he would report him, and Jones replied that, “Nothing will come out of that”, which was interpreted to mean that the police would not carry out investigations into the matter, and no decision would be made.

Connell said that to date, the issue was never addressed and now leaves a lurking doubt in Stephens’ mind as to whether the trial would be a rehash of the report that was made while John was Commissioner of Police, and would have made the final decision.

Connell said that by granting the

Senior Magistrate Colin John, to avoid any doubt among the dents, recused himself from pressing over a matter. request for recusal, ‘justice would not only be done, but would be seen to be done’ by a fair-minded observer.

To support his arguments, Connell referenced the appeal case between the appellant, Keston Riley, and respondents, the attorney general and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2020.

At a previous sitting of Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, Connell had suggested that John recuse himself from all pending criminal matters before the Court from his tenure as Commissioner of Police, and all traffic matters in which he is the complainant.

John was sworn in as Senior Magistrate on December 1, 2023 after retiring as Commissioner of Police.

CONSISTENCY ‘WINS’ SUPER 6 JACKPOT the ticket was purchased in Mustique, where Joseph is IT HAS BEEN a long time in employed. coming.

He explained that the Alston Joseph has broken winning numbers represent the drought becoming the first the birth dates of his wife, Vincentian in a while to win children, and himself and that the Super 6 Jackpot. he has been playing this Joseph — an electrician by combination for about 16 profession and a resident of years.

Peter’s Hope — came away “I have been consistent, with the $250,000, the jackpot and you have to be in it to win for the draw made on January it,” he mused.

5.

“Consistency and dedication The winning numbers were — that is why I won,” Joseph 3, 13, 15, 24, 26 and 27 and added.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

It was a good feeling knowing now that he can assist his children with their education, put some aside and put some into sport.

It was back in July 2023 when a Vincentian featured as winner in the Super 6, this when Simon Forde was the joint winner of the $550,000 jackpot on offer then.

The other winner was a resident of Grenada, where in addition to St Lucia and Dominica the Super 6 game in played.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

Alston Joseph (centre) gladly accepts his Super 6 cheque from Murray Bullock, Chairman of the NLA, (left) in the company of NLA Manager McGregor Sealey.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.