PRIME MINISTER OF ST. VINCENT AND THE Grenadines Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on July 11, 2025, during a media briefing, issued a sharp call for improvement at Massy Supermarkets here.
The Prime Minister cited concerns about poor product variety and what he described as subpar appearance. This, he said, paled in significance and attraction to what obtains in Massy’s branches in other regional countries.
In a tone of pure indication, the Prime Minister declared, “Right in St. Vincent, we have the worst Massy supermarket in the Caribbean. Go to Barbados and St. Lucia; you will see them. What do you think? We aren’t good enough to have a supermarket of that quality?”
The Vincentian leader was cautious though,
explaining that his comments were not directed at store/supermarket employees but rather at the company’s “overall operations and management standards in the country.”
Since that indictment of sorts, the Prime Minister said he has meet and raised the issue of disparities with a former high-ranking official from Massy.
That former official, the Prime Minister said, has since informed him that he had reached out to the Chief Executive in Trinidad, “who indicated that they would dispatch someone to investigate the nature of the complaints and endeavour to address the issues in St. Vincent.”
Continue on page 3
Prime
Ralph Gonsalves
no stone unturned in drawing Massy Stores’ attention to shortcomings in their operations
The Massy Store/Supermarket at Arnos vale is considered it flagship operation here
Attention was drawn to the lack of variety in Massy’s product lines and appearance.
Latter Day Saints/CED combine
A NUMBER OF VINCENTIAN
entrepreneurs are setting up businesses or have done so, thanks to the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints.
Thirty-six person were involved in commercial activities thanks to the Church, in a collaboration with the Centre for Enterprise Development (CED), referred to as the Technical Assistance for Men’s Employment and Entrepreneurship Development (TAMEED) Project.
One of those entrepreneursFerique Shortte - received $15,000 for winning the Business Pitch competition. He beamed with satisfaction following his reward. He produces a variety of processed hams and sausages and samples of his products were snapped up at the display version of last week Friday’s Grants and Awards Ceremony, at the Lecture Hall of the University of the West Indies Open campus.
Eric Clarke, with a Poultry and Meat operation, collected $10,000 for second.
A gathering of those entrepreneurs who accepted the challenge of being involved in the TAMEED Project.
Pierre Gonzalez and Cozy Stewart, representatives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints addressed the ceremony.
Stewart, a resident of Union Island endorsed the project and shared that his institution has been engaged in this type of activity for years.
He looked at it as their duty of “caring for our brothers,” and regarded his institution’s injections as part of its spiritual calling.
His Church donated $370,000 towards the project.
Stewart outlined that “we wanted to help,” and with CED, it was just a matter of coordination. He is looking forward to further activity with CED and also projects in other ventures “before year-end.”
CED’s General Manager Ornette Lewis described those who completed the project as “role-models” and “ambassadors.”
Among the awardees were: Aleon Anderson - ‘Andotech’; Jeffrey
Ballantyne - Taste of Paradise’; Raphique Baptiste - ‘SVG Pest Control and Property Management’; Juan Barker - ‘Adams Training School and Maintenance Service’; and Dereck Black - ‘Locallio Foods SVG’.
Added recipients: David Duncan: ‘Fix it Cricket’; Hartiem Farrell — ‘Hartiem Farrell Couture’; Petra Ann Garraway — ‘Choshea’; Kenrick Greene — ‘Akeem’s carpentry’; Kelson Haynes‘Kenson’s Creations’; along with Phillip Hazell -‘P & M Metal Works’.
Also involved as active participants were: Ron Henville - ‘Flava’s’; Jaron Morgan — ‘Jamaz Autocare and Services SVG’; Phillon Morgan‘Thriller’s SVG’; Verina Pilgrim‘Pilgrim’s Estate’; Jamel Providence: ‘The Soup Shop’; and Jefranne
Ferique Shortte (centre) – winner of the Business Pitch competition –adds a personal touch to a tasting of his products.
Richardson - ‘Jeff’s Chip’. More awardees: Raydon Richardson — ‘Plot Armor Marketing’; Rayshorn Richardso — ‘Kenotic Services Ltd.’; Misann Rouse - ‘Debbie’s Beauty Salon’; Joshua Small - ‘Soulful Sips’; Opreth Sutherland - ‘Baby Care and Comfort Supplies’; Rodney Sutherland - ‘Micro-Tech’; Benita Thomas - ‘Nita’s Artistry’; Glenroy Thomas - ’Grofare’; Manaki Trimmingham — ‘‘The Hour Music’; Jason Villaroel — ‘Villo Tech’; and Marlon Wilkins: ‘Young King’s Vegetarian Cuisine’. (WKA)
V News 3
World Bank praises SVG
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has been commended for the effort made at recovery, following the passage of Hurricane Beryl over a year ago.
Jared Mercandante, team leader for the World Bank’s Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery (BERRY) project, praised the progress made in St. Vincent and the Grenadines following the devastation caused by the Hurricane — July 2024.
The World Bank, through a US$63 million credit facility under the International Development Association (IDA), supported the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in its ongoing recovery and reconstruction efforts.
One year after the category 4 hurricane severely damaged homes and infrastructure across the country, Mercandante described the work done so far as “commendable.”
Mercandante, who also led the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP) for the World Bank, said the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of natural disasters.
The World Bank had authorized the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to utilize funds immediately after the disaster, even before the loan was fully approved. This pre-financing mechanism allowed for rapid mobilization of resources for relief and recovery.
So far, just over US$20 million has been disbursed by the World Bank, according to Mercandante. These funds have supported emergency housing repairs, infrastructure stabilization, and essential public services in affected communities.
Massy operations to be reviewed
Continued from front page AS A RESULT, IT WAS CONFIRMEDthat that Massy Stores “is anticipated to reassess its operational approach in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), particularly concerning aesthetics and the range of products available.”
The bottom line of all of this, according to Dr. Gonslaves, “… to establish a fundamental minimum standard and strive for the highest possible benchmarks. That is the objective we must pursue,”
Massy operates three supermarkets/stores here: one at Stoney Ground, one at Arnos Vale and the other at Upper Bat Street, Kingstown.
About Massy
Massy Stores (formerly Hi-Lo Foods Stores) is a nationwide supermarket chain in Trinidad and Tobago. It is a subsidiary of the Massy Group (formerly Neal & Massy) of companies and part of the IGA network.
Massy operates its Massy Stores/Supermarket chain in several Caribbean countries including Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent, and the Grenadines. They also have a distribution network that reaches across the wider Caribbean region.
The Trinidad and Tobago headquartered company’s entry into the local market came with its acquisition of the Aunt Job’s and Save-a-Lot supermarkets, then owned by CFL (SVG) Supermarkets Limited, a subsidiary of CFL a private limited liability St. Lucian company.
In effect, Massy Stores acquired CFL SVG Supermarkets, leading to the rebranding of the stores as Massy Stores/ Supermarket.
By 2023/2024, the Massy Group was reporting that it had a total of 68 modern retail stores across six Caribbean territories, with Trinidad and
Tobago accounting for 23 of those locations. The rest of the Caribbean locations include various formats like supercentres, supermarkets, pharmacies, and express stores.
In 2025 the Massy Group reported a 16.3 per cent increase in profits and an 80.4 per cent surge in cash flow for the six-month period ending March 31.
In a media release on May 9, Massy CEO David Affonso said the group’s profit before tax from continuing operations increased to TT$556.7 million, while net cash from operations jumped to TT$744.9 million.
Revenue grew by 3.9 per cent to TT$7.9 billion as compared to TT$7.6 billion in the same period in 2024.
Profit after tax went up 20 per cent to $365 million.
The Massy Group can be easily described as a Trans-Caribbean Corporation.
Massy Stores was billed to be the new trendsetter among supermarkets here and a ‘saviour’ for consumers, but given the outcry, it now has to play catch-up.
The interior of Massy Stores in Warrens, Barbados – a sharp contrast to what obtains generally in Massy Stores, SVG.
Jared Mercandante, team leader for the World Bank’s Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery (BERRY) project.
Guardsman jailed for beating woman
Al Tyson
Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS
AL TYSON, a 34-year-old security guard employed with Guardman Ltd, who beat his common-law wife Colleena Williams with his hands and a cutlass about two weeks ago, was sentenced to 24 months in prison on Wednesday.
However, Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie ordered that Tyson spend the first six months of that sentence behind bars, but suspended the remaining 18 months for 18 months.
The suspended part of the sentence will begin after his six months of incarceration are completed.
Tyson was also ordered to pay $2,000 compensation to Williams forthwith or go to prison for one year.
Tyson had initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on July 16, pleading guilty to assaulting Williams, causing her bodily harm, damaging a bedroom door and a steel burglarbarred gate, which together valued EC$585.35, belonging to Williams, and damaging a laptop valued US$200 belonging to Williams’ 15-year-old
Security firm drops its guard
WADE SIMON, a 60-yearold security guard attached to the firm Guardsman Security Ltd, is facing a murder charge.
However, he is still in the process of seeking legal representation, as he is not being assisted by the security firm where he worked for 12 years.
On Simon’s return to the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday, he was still without legal representation, and when Chief Magistrate Colin John inquired of him whether he had a lawyer, he said he was in the process of retaining attorney Grant Connell because Guardsman had indicated that they were no longer supporting him.
Connell, who was at the Bar table, in connection with another matter, did not respond to what Simon said.
Prosecutor Renrick Cato told the Court that the case file was still with the investigator and requested and was granted an adjournment.
When contacted on Wednesday, Connell told THE VINCENTIAN, “He (Simon) is entitled to retain the services of an attorney. We operate in a legal system and I trust that all who play a role would at least ensure that this man gets a fair trial, and that includes the media. The matter is before the Court, so we would cross the bridges as we meet them”.
The charge against Simon stems from the death of Shernard Gloster, 47, of Keartons, Barrouallie, who was shot and killed around 12:35 p.m. on July 9, 2025, during an incident at the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union (KCCU) where Simon was on duty as a security guard.
Constable 1015 Ria Smart of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) is leading the investigations.
sister.
All three charges stemmed from the same incident, which occurred around 10:30 p.m. on July 13 at Williams’ home at Glen, where they were both living, and had followed an argument between them.
The facts showed that Tyson spat on the woman and proceeded to beat her, first with his hands, then used a cutlass as she attempted to leave the house to seek help, and even swung the cutlass at her head, but she managed to dodge it. He also damaged Williams’ property and her sister’s laptop during the drama.
Williams eventually managed to flee the house and reported the matter to the police.
Williams had told the Court she was still unable to eat properly because of an injury to her gum resulting from the incident. However, when the Magistrate asked her if she still loved Tyson, she replied in the affirmative.
Tyson had told the Court that the incident was triggered by a dispute over some money the woman had for him.
On Tyson’s initial Court appearance, in connection with the matter, he was ordered to pay $1,000 compensation or one year in prison for damaging the laptop and for damaging the burglar barred gate, he was ordered to pay $585.35 compensation of which $170 was to be paid forthwith, or three months in prison and the balance of $365.35 by August 15 or six months.
Tyson was also ordered to pay $2,000 compensation to Williams on the assault charge, but McKenzie left that penalty open, and completed her sentencing on that charge on Wednesday, July 23.
In the Interim, Tyson was remanded.
Tyson was not represented by a lawyer when he initially appeared in Court on July 16, but attorney Jolanie Williams represented him on Wednesday. Williams, in mitigation on the assault charge, pleaded with the court to impose a non-custodial sentence.
Williams said that Tyson was aware of what he had done and that it was not right.
He explained that Tyson and Williams were in a romantic relationship, and like any other relationship, there would be conflicts. He noted that it takes two to make a quarrel, and there was some level of provocation in this matter. He expressed the view that in domestic relationships, females are also sometimes responsible for provocative behaviour, and there should be some equity and balance.
Williams stressed that Tyson was of good character, pleaded guilty, had no previous conviction, and is sorry for his actions. He added that Tyson had already served one week in prison on remand, and therefore had time to reflect on his actions.
The lawyer was of the view that Tyson can still be reformed, and suggested that arrangements can be made for him, as well as the woman, to attend counselling sessions at Marion House in conflict resolution and anger management.
McKenzie acknowledged that Marion House does offer services in that regard, and she instructed that arrangements of this nature be made.
In handing down the penalties, the Magistrate applied the sentencing guidelines and weighed the mitigating factors against the aggravating. She concluded that Tyson go to prison for some time to reflect on his actions.
Magistrate asks lawyer to leave court
ATTORNEYVynette Frederick feels that her presence at the Serious Offences Court on Monday ‘unsettled’ Chief Magistrate Colin John, hence the reason why he asked her to leave the court.
Frederick was speaking to THE VINCENTIAN shortly after the Chief Magistrate asked her to leave the court.
The drama unfolded when Frederick was heard muttering while Prosecutor Renrick Cato was responding to no-case submissions by Attorney Grant Connell and Frederick’s Junior Counsel, Maxron Holder, in a matter involving former employee of the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) Yvonne Patterson and Fitzroy Douglas of Murray’s Village.
Patterson and Douglas are facing multiple charges, in connection with the deprivation of thousands of dollars from the BOSVG in 2020.
On hearing Frederick’s mutterings, the Chief Magistrate asked her whether she was on record for the matter. Frederick, who was sitting at a Bar table, replied: “I am in the gallery, consider me in the gallery”.
But the Magistrate indicated that he wanted the Prosecutor to be heard in silence.
Frederick, however, continued to mutter, and when the Magistrate spoke to her again, she replied: “I am glad to hear you.”
As the episode continued, John told the lawyer, “Counsel
Frederick, please leave the Court”.
But Counsel replied: “I beg you pardon, I am an officer of the Court”.
Frederick refused to leave and asked the Magistrate, “What is the basis for you not wanting me here”?
John did not reply, but at this point, attorney Connell intervened to diffuse the situation, and asked the Magistrate to retract his request, saying that, “I am sure that my learned friend (Frederick) would lower her voice”.
At this point, Frederick exited the court.
Frederick later told THE VINCENTIAN that while she was not directly involved in the case, her law firm, Frederick Attorneys, was. She said she originally had conduct of the matter, but subsequently passed it on to her Junior Counsel.
Recalling the drama in Court, Frederick said, “I was at the Bar table muttering under my breath, and he asked me if I was on record for the matter. I told him (Magistrate) to consider me as part of the gallery, even though I was at the Bar table, so that he could consider me an onlooker and not an active participant”.
The lawyer said she don’t usually attend the Serious Offences Court, but was there on Monday to hear her Junior Counsel.
“I genuinely was not disruptive or mischievous, so maybe my mere presence clearly unsettled him”. According to Frederick, “I was not interrupting the flow of the proceedings; ‘banta at the Bar table among lawyers is normal”.
Wade Simon –murder accused.
Attorney Vynette Frederick
Chief Magistrate Colin John
ECCB GovernorÊs new residence flagged
IN A SCANDAL THAT SENT shockwaves through the Eastern Caribbean in early 2025, the Monetary Council of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has raised serious red flags about the construction of the multi-milliondollar mansion for the bank’s Governor— citing glaring flaws in the bidding process, a lack of transparency, and excessive, eyebrow-raising spending. At its 111th meeting, the Monetary Council–chaired by Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne–admitted that the governance and oversight mechanisms surrounding the project had failed to meet acceptable
standards. The project, with an alleged cost of over EC$22 million, was never brought to the Council for review or approval, prompting a flurry of concern and criticism.
“There were issues in terms of the lowest bid… and we felt that the quantity surveyor at the time should have picked up that anomaly,” said Browne. “The other three bids came in over EC$20 million–and yet, the project cost skyrocketed regardless.”
Despite Browne’s insistence that no wrongdoing has been found, he acknowledged the flawed tendering process, the failure to flag financial irregularities, and the alarming lack of routine updates to the Council on such a high-stakes venture.
Mansion or a Monument to Excess?
The project, originally shielded from public scrutiny, became a lightning rod earlier this year when St. Vincent and
the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves issued a scathing letter suggesting that Governor Timothy Antoine should “consider whether his continued occupancy of office is tenable.”
Calling the spending “outrageous” and an “absolute scandal,” Gonsalves added that the ECCB’s internal checks and balances–including oversight from its Board of Directors and Monetary Council–had “self-evidently fallen below prudent standards.
Tightening the Screws–Too Late?
In damage control mode, the Monetary Council has now issued a new directive: “any project exceeding EC$10 million must now be routinely reported to the Council and receive a formal “no-objection” clearance before proceeding.
“We’re strengthening the reporting mechanisms… Council members should be kept informed in real-time,” Browne said.
Still, critics argue that this is too little, too late, and some are calling for greater accountability and possible resignations, not just process reforms. Civil society organizations across the
ECCU have begun demanding a full audit, with some legal analysts arguing that criminal negligence or fiduciary irresponsibility cannot be ruled out.
Still. Questions remain unanswered: Who approved the EC$22 million without Council review? Why weren’t alarm bells sounded when bids varied so drastically? Why was the Monetary Council kept in the dark?
Back in March, it was reported that he Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Governor’s Mansion, initially pegged at $11 million Eastern Caribbean dollars, had skyrocketed to a staggering $22 million, raising serious concerns and triggering a firestorm of accusations.
This after three of four contractors has submitted bids of between $30 and $31m, giving the impression that the initial estimate approved by the Quantity Surveyor was way off target. (Source: Times Caribbean Online)
The new ECCB Governor’s redeicne under construction in St. Kitts (Photo Credit: St. Kitts Times)
Timothy Antoine, the third ECCB Governor to date, is expected to occupy the new residence.
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
Holding government responsible
WE WILL SOONbe beckoned to polling booths across the state to exercise our ‘democratic right’ to vote for a parliament and government to represent our interest i.e. the interest of all citizens and not just those who support the party that will gain the majority in the parliament.
Yes, we will answer the call like obedient ‘disciplines’, spend perhaps less than five minutes in the polling booth and come away feeling we have done our ‘civic duty”. Far too often, we walk away and wash our hands, leaving the business of working to advance our welfare to those we have elected.
Our democracy lives and dies it seems, in those five or so minutes in the polling booth since we have shown, time and time again, that we ignore our responsibility to ensure that the political system is made to be accountable, by exerting the power we hold as citizens to demand that those elected are held responsible and accountable for their decisions.
When we wash our hands after we have exercised our right to vote, we perpetuate the attitude that our democracy must go into a period of hibernation — when it does not require our cognizance. This has serious consequences especially when things go wrong, and things will go wrong as our history of politics and government has made clear.
We can hold our parliaments and government to account by monitoring the implementation and evaluating the impact of laws. Why? It is our duty to ensure that laws benefit all citizens in the way a people-centred law should be intended, and not couched so that it hides some narrow agenda that promotes the ‘welfare’ of a party or chosen few.
This monitoring is already provided for in our system of parliament which allows for Parliamentary Committees which, sadly in our case, are usually encouraged by the government side and only when it relates to an issue or matter that is so removed from the day to day ‘survival’ of the people, that they (people) are inclined to disregard it.
Parliamentary democracy can strive with the use of more Parliamentary Committees and will also allow for involvement from outside the chosen parliamentary caucus.
Strengthening parliamentary oversight of public finances is vital to
Exploring the Legacy of Unity in the Caribbean
improve governance, transparency, and accountability.
Strong financial oversight ensures effective delivery of public services. It helps make sure that taxpayers’ money is raised and spent properly. Our political system requires that parliaments approve budgets. They also review government spending to ensure that it is efficient and effective. How governments spend taxpayers’ money is too important to be left unchecked. Elected representatives must assert their right to scrutinise and control spending decisions.
Parliamentary Committees’ oversight role, including the proper and regular functioning of the Public Accounts Committees, must become the norm not an exception.
Corruption is an aspect of poor governance which negatively affects a country’s economic development, as well as the effective provision of public services.
As the awareness of the detrimental effects of corruption on development has grown, strategies to fight it are now a priority in international development and policy circles. Sadly, this international trend seems to have ‘avoided’ our space and the promise of things like Integrity, Election Campaign Financing and Anti-bribery Legislations havebeen nothing but promises since no government to date has had the political will, the courage, to introduce same. The question of a government having something to hide should never characterize the government of any country regardless of geography and economic prosperity.
Independent oversight institutions and regulatory agencies play an important role in the governance systems of many countries. This is especially true in parliamentary democracies.
Independent oversight institutions include ombudspersons, anticorruption agencies and human rights commissions. They help to make sure countries’ governments comply with human rights and other standards. Many countries have established agencies to regulate specific sectors, independent from government, e.g. Public Utilities Commissions.
If our democracy is made to be a mere exercise by a few on behalf of the many propelled by an adversarial nature of our politics, then we have a long way before we can boast of having anything close to a mature democracy.
The Caribbean isn’t just an archipelago— it’s a rich tapestry woven from a shared history of resilience, culture, and transformation, despite the shadows of genocide, slavery, and colonialism. Sometimes, we must remind ourselves of the few sparks of unity that still shine bright: the exhilarating exchange of food and cultural expressions that flow across our islands.
In the early years of the twentieth century, the Spiritual Baptists of St. Vincent and the Grenadines embarked on a survival journey to the corners of Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. The Rastafarian movement traveled south from its birthplace, Jamaica. Each island has its flavor to share–imagine the mouthwatering taste of curry and roti from the South or the zing of jerk seasoning from Jamaican cuisine .. truly irresistible.
Nested in this background, I find it difficult to understand why we are still discussing “why we need CARICOM” or “if we need to belong” after over fifty years of working together. I cannot understand why our differences on simple issues run so deep that they threaten our unity. So today, I want to talk about a cultural phenomenon reintroduced into our carnival this year, i.e. “The Monkey Band.” much to my disappointment.
A few years ago, I read an article in another weekly newspaper about some elements of Monday Ole Mas coauthored by Sisters Nelcia Robinson and Margaret Sullivan; that brought back mixed emotions. They wrote about what they enjoyed and feared as children about our carnival, specifically, “The Monkey Band”, “Bruise he Back” (Bozie Back), “Bois Bois Men”. Those elements were the pieces of carnival I was happy to see eliminated from our modern festival. As a child of the sixties, when these were most prevalent, my parents did not allow those groups to visit our yard. My mother objected because even though she was not a deeply religious person, she referred to their act as “devilish” behavior. On the other hand, my father saw it as a reminder of how the plantation/enslavers saw us as a people.
As I grew older, I learnt to appreciate some of the finer elements of this cultural expression. Still, I continued to hear my father’s voice in the back of my head, especially when last week, I spoke to some people
about the reasons for the reintroduction of “The Monkey Band”. No one I talked to made any connection to the cultural expression of freedom or the religious expression of our African ancestry. A quick Google search for the tradition of “Monkey Band and SVG Carnival” will tell us some superficial crap like: “In St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Vincy Mas (Carnival), the Monkey Band is a traditional and iconic costume band, deeply rooted in African heritage, representing the celebration of freedom.”
For me, “Bozie Back” is a reenactment that powerfully captures the harsh realities of slavery. At the same time, “The Monkey Band” serves as an exaggerated reflection of the behaviors that our colonizers wrongly attributed to those of African ancestry.
I may not be a cultural historian or a purist, but I do not believe it’s time to reignite this era’s passions without the proper historical context. So, let’s be vigilant. The melding of truths and the nuanced associations of our rich African traditions must be preserved with care. If “Jab Jab” in Grenada and “The Monkey Band” in SVG serve as powerful expressions of freedom, then should this be the spotlight event for Emancipation Day celebrations?
Having spent three decades in the Southwest Region of the USA, I’ve faced an onslaught of derogatory monkey references, and this experience, along with my keen sense of history, has shaped my perspective. Celebrating my freedom and achievements through imagery of monkeys is something I find deeply troubling. It’s time to create celebrations that resonate with pride and dignity. Let’s elevate our traditions while honoring their true essence.
Imagine a regional Emancipation Day celebration with our brothers and sisters embodying our cultural traditions, including “The Monkey Bands”, “Jab Jab”, and other practices emanating from our shared experiences. The more of these events we share, the closer we will get to the elusive unity our politicians seem never to capture.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
No Test connection for Sammy
NOW THAT I know Darren Sammy was the sole selector of that West Indies cricket squad that was humiliated by the Australians in the recent test series, I am even more convinced that Sammy just ain’t making sense.
As I wrote in a letter published in your issue of Friday 4th July, 2025, “Sammy could talk all he wants about studying this and studying that and applying all the science in the world to justify his stupid decisions, he just ain’t making sense.”
I just want to say to those ‘friends’ who took me to task for what I said about Sammy, that what I said was said before the humiliation by the Australians. I did not speak after the fact.
I want to suggest that Sammy be reassigned to coach the T20 and ODI teams, and that he is kept very far away from the test team. Sammy must not have anything whatsoever to do with selecting players for the test team.
Sorry to sound like I am beating up on a fellow OECS man, but we got to face reality. All must be done to avoid, to prevent another 27 all out and that does not exclude cutting Sammy’s responsibilities.
Charles, Edinboro
No flags for me
I stand with no colours, no party, no pride No red or yellow can claim my side. While the crowd moves loud, like a marching drum, I see blind faith in what won’t come.
They shout for leaders, who lie with grace, Kiss babies, shake hands, then vanish in haste. They promise the poor gold-laced skies Then leave them drowning in debt and lies.
A nation dancing in glitter and wine, But the soul of the people no longer shine. Carnival reigns like a holy rite, But where is God in the steelpan night?
The churches empty, the rum shops are full, And truth has been traded for carnival pull. We worship flesh, not the Word or cross, Each wine and jam has a deeper loss.
We’re sheep in costumes, masked and loud, Lost in rhythm, proud of the crowd. But the shepherd’s voice grows faint each year, Drowned by soca and manmade cheer.
No flag I wave, no stage I climb, No vote for sweet talk or party line. Just prayers for eyes to open wide, And for God to return where He once did reside.
PERSONSput themselves forward in good spirits with the intention to serve our nation; show your appreciation, applaud them all, particularly when they hold a track record of competence.
My father, Horace Crichton, of blessed memory, always said, “...If you want to know what to do, how to act, put the shoe on your foot.”
Think about how much trauma and stress, persons who put themselves forward undergo when criticism of them is flying left, right, and centre. Think about the discomfort endured by their families, friends, loved ones, in the process.
Likewise, those who have already put themselves forward and have been elected should be shown appreciation;
their efforts should at least be acknowledged. You do not have to “suck up”.
Book learning, university education, tertiary education, skills training, professional training, vocational courses, do not necessarily teach anyone how to act in life, how to show empathy, compassion, love, care, how to be human, how to be civil, how to settle differences without resorting to violence, how to welcome new persons to the village.
Small wonder that prestigious institutions are now busily designing and offering courses that teach the aforementioned.
Maralyn Ballantyne LLB.Hons.
We must not distort the truth
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, my homeland, like Jamaica and Guyana, is caught up in a politically charged environment. While the people of Jamaica and Guiana have some idea of when their next general election will be called, citizens of SVG are still awaiting the World Boss to ring the election bell.
One of the things that I think escapes our politicians is the fact that there should be no masking of the truth. And regardless of whether we want change or we want the status quo to remain, we have to be honest with ourselves and use established facts and desist from trying to mask or cloud the truth.
Like all Vincentians, I love my homeland, my place of birth but that doesn’t mean that I will tolerate narrowmindedness of her leaders. Until we have leaders like Ibrahim Traore, we will never be delivered from crime and some other ills. And why, you might ask? Because of the love of money and power, especially political power. I pray that one day our leaders will acquire true traits of honesty and act as real humans should.
Stray animals in Union Island Why donÊt you love me too?
I love this country — oh, I truly do, The peace each morning, the skies so blue. The laughter of neighbours, the warmth in the air, The hills and the oceans, so endlessly fair.
But — why must there always be a but? Why does my heart feel tightly shut? For many long years I’ve walked your land, Yet never once felt your outstretched hand.
Where is your love, your purpose, your grace? I search for hope in every place. I give my strength, my time, my soul Still chasing dreams that feel like a toll.
I’ve never known financial ease, Only prayers whispered on bended knees. No land, no deed, no home to own, Just borrowed space, just seeds not sown.
I look in my purse and dream of a shoe, But wonder if dinner will make it through. Why can’t I spend without guilt or fear, Why does tomorrow always feel unclear?
At my age, my parents had keys — To homes, to land, to life’s small ease. But now it feels like moving sand, Trying to grip a piece of land.
I love you, country don’t you see? But why won’t you also love me? Why can’t we save, just once, just some, Without fearing where the bills will come from?
Oh, how I long to travel far, To touch the sky, to wish on a star. But still, I wait, in the land I adore, Asking if I’ll ever have more.
IT APPEARSthat the issue of stray animals on Union Island will continue to plague the community. Apparently, many of the animals have no owners.
One high church official said that they sold some no horn cows to a farmer who has not paid. To whom do these cows belong? Is it to the original owner or the farmer who has not paid?
Another elderly farmer said that he bought some cows which were always on the loose. Since that time (years ago), he cannot identify which cows are his. The same perhaps can be said about goats and sheep on the loose.
Since the beginning of the year, about 3 cows have been killed with the meat left to rot.
The rice and chicken eaten every day from the community kitchens can be supplemented with beef and mutton. Arrangements should be made to kill the stray animals to provide variety in the food provided.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
* How come the World Boss could have a “newbee” like Dr. Shallow putting him under heavy manners? Maybe, he is not a World Boss after all?
* How many of those Cricket Legends have ever coached a cricket team? And if they have, how successful were they?
* Why is it that governments always seem to be doing so much in an election year?
* If the ULP loses the next general election, would Dr. Gonsalves take up his role as leader of the Opposition or would he resign as party leader and hand over responsibilities to Camillo?
* And if the NDP loses another general election, would Dr. Friday resign as leader of the party? Who will replace him?
* Is plantain now the new “green gold”?
Paul from Jamaica
Emancipation Cricket Festival in SVG
The festival
The Emancipation Cricket Festival, a conjoined remembrance, commemoration, and celebration of the emancipation or freedom for enslaved African bodies, and the historic triumphs of West Indies cricket, take place in SVG between July 31st and August 3rd, 2025, at the Arnos Vale Sporting Facility. On August 1, 1838 or 187 years ago, the Africans, enslaved by the British in the West Indies, won their freedom.
On May 17, 1965, or sixty years ago, at home, the West Indies test cricket team, under the captaincy of the iconic Garfield Sobers, were crowned unofficial world champions when they defeated the mighty Australians in the test series, two matches-to-one. On June 21, 1975, or 50 years ago, the West Indies one-day cricket team, under the captaincy of the legendary Clive Lloyd, defeated Australia, at Lord’s London, in the inaugural One Day International Championship. These three anniversaries are being brought together at a critical juncture in the evolution of our Caribbean civilisation.
Emancipation brought a formal end to a monumental crime against humanity, slavery in the West Indies; it opened the way for the humanisation of hitherto enslaved Africans, their individual and collective advancement as human beings; subjugation as chattels or things had come to a formal end for the enslaved persons.
Cricket, a quintessential English sport brought to the British colonies in the West Indies, was embraced and fashioned by our colonised people as an instrument of national liberation. In the process we infused this sport, cricket, with a distinctive West Indian style, sense and sensibility, and called it our own. It has been a core component of our ongoing social democratic revolution, and a distinctive cultural plank of our creolised Caribbean civilisation. Call it the dialectics of cricket.
The Emancipation anniversary of 2025 arrives at a time when there is growing popular support, at home and abroad, for reparations for native genocide and the enslavement of African bodies as part of the process of repairing the historic legacies of underdevelopment brought about the genocide and enslavement in the Caribbean at the hands of European colonial powers (British, French, Dutch, and Spanish); these and other European powers were so engaged in genocide and enslavement in countries in Latin America and elsewhere. In 2013-2014, the ULP government took the initiative at CARICOM to place the issue of reparations permanently on its agenda for ongoing action and to establish the CARICOM Reparations Commission. Our Prime Minister, Comrade Ralph, not only led the way at CARICOM on this issue, but has been continuously active in this great cause; and in 2014 he caused to be published a book, authored by him, entitled Caribbean Reparatory Justice, which is available on Amazon.
The respective cricket anniversaries have come to the fore in our quest to reinvigorate West Indies cricket at the time when it is at its lowest ebb since our acquisition of test cricket status in 1928. Our recent humiliation at Sabina Park, Jamaica, has wounded, grievously, Caribbean people. Cricket West Indies (CWI), a private sector company, which arrogantly, and exclusively, presumes to run the public good known as cricket, has been a disaster on all material fronts. This is hardly surprising because: (i) it derives its legitimacy not from our people, but from the International Cricket Council (ICC), run from Dubai, under the control and direction of Indian cricket imperialism; and (ii) CWI, as a
neo-colonial entity, has lost any sense of the historic mission and purpose of West Indies cricket; it has drained our cricket of its liberation, mass appeal and has canalized its spirit into a submissive appendage of a monopoly capitalism, directed, ironically, from an India with anti-colonial pedigree of yesteryear, in cahoots with England and Australia. CWI has to be revamped or it will wither and die a slow, painful death. So, the Festival, in this regard, is an occasion for a call to action by the people of our region, led by the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines!
The festival in our national context
The former New Democratic Party (NDP) government of (July 1984 to March 2001) debased the Emancipation anniversary by changing the celebratory holiday from August 1st – Emancipation Day – to the first Monday in August which became known simply as “August Monday”, a run-of-the-mill public holiday. The ULP government, in 2001, proclaimed August 1st as the Emancipation Day, and proceeded to elaborate, every year, a month-long programme of celebration and commemoration.
In August 2023, our government ramped up further the extent of the celebratory and commemorative activities by facilitating in communities across SVG musical and cultural activities, including traditional ones derived from the folk. A centre-piece of the 2023 activities was a huge “One Family” concert at Victoria Park. In the aftermath of Hurricane Beyl of July 2024, the Emancipation activities were comparatively low-keyed as we dealt with the immediate relief and recovery efforts for the victims of Hurricane Beryl. This year, 2025, we have accorded the activities a Cricket and Cultural focus (cricket, music and the performing arts, and the embrace of Volume One of the History of SVG). The details have been highlighted through the statements of the indefatigable Carlos James and his Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
CWI twists and turns on the festival
The announcement of the Emancipation Cricket Festival (ECF), two or so weeks ago, plunged into a state of apoplexy the neo-colonial CWI headed by a wannabe Napoleon Bonaparte, Kishore Shallow, a political partisan of the NDP and its declared election candidate for that backward party. Quick out of the metaphoric block, Shallow, a puny man with a shallow mind, and a little brief authority, hungry for status and more, denounced the ECF as a “circus”; derisively, he scorned this significant initiative as an entertainment event of acrobats, clowns, and trained animals; he asserted that it would never happen because the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), to which some participating players are contracted, has given no permission, and he sought to frighten the participating players with potential bans from CPL and CWI. What a nasty piece of work!
Shallow went on a mega rant, even demanding quite disrespectfully of the Caribbean’s senior statesman, Comrade Ralph, “to shut up”; this followed upon his earlier denunciation of Ralph as “an old fool”, “an old clown”. Shallow evidently has some deep-seated “father issues”; resolve them in your head, bro; he is also backward to the core.
on Page 18
ULPÊs distraction failed - NDP addresses issues
PRIME MINISTERDr. Ralph Gonsalves’s recent attack on Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies, appears to be a strategic move aimed at diverting Vincentians’ attention from the economic and social challenges facing the nation. The New Democratic Party (NDP) remains committed to highlighting these economic and social issues and presenting effective solutions to address the ongoing crisis confronting Vincentians.
The Prime Minister has remained notably silent regarding the escalating cost-of-living crisis, choosing not to publicly address the widespread concerns affecting Vincentians. This stands in stark contrast to his vocal criticisms of Dr. Shallow and Cricket West Indies which have garnered attention and debate. The cost-ofliving crisis affects every aspect of daily life for our people, from basic necessities to essential services. The recent increase in gasoline price will further compound these hardships. Additionally, as parents prepare for the upcoming 2025—2026 academic year, they face mounting challenges in purchasing school supplies and uniforms.
The Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has failed to address the growing unemployment crisis in the country. With youth unemployment exceeding 40 percent and approximately one in five individuals unemployed or underemployed, the nation faces unprecedented economic challenges. This alarming rate of unemployment is the highest in the Eastern Caribbean, therefore highlighting the urgent need for effective solutions. Unfortunately, the ULP has yet to present a clear strategy to tackle this crisis.
Crime has been spiraling out of control in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, reaching alarming levels in recent years. 2023 was a record-breaking year of fifty-five (55) homicides. In 2024, fifty-four (54) homicides were recorded, highlighting the severity of the situation. Despite widespread calls from Vincentians for the Minister of National Security to take urgent and effective action, little has been done to curb violent crime.
The economy of this country is in a precarious state; it is faced with severe challenges. We are burdened with a national debt approaching $3 billion, a debt-toGDP ratio of 93%, indicating a high level of fiscal vulnerability. The productive sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing have experienced substantial decline, and there is little indication of sustainable growth and development on the horizon. This economic downturn threatens the well-being of our citizens and calls for urgent attention. Instead, the energy to fix these problems is channeled elsewhere.
Most Vincentians have grown weary of the ULP government. Conversations with ordinary Vincentians reveal a shared frustration, with many believing that only a select few benefit from the ‘gravy train’, while the majority continue to struggle. The ULP has clearly outlived its usefulness; its leadership is tired and lacks fresh ideas to address the nation’s challenges. It is evident that a change is necessary, and change is coming. Vincentians are now rallying for the NDP to govern the country.
The way forward
The NDP has an exciting plan to transform and develop St. Vincent and the Grenadines, through the four economic pillars: agriculture, tourism, the blue economy and the new economy. Together, these pillars will drive sustainable economic growth and development, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a leading nation in the region.
Moreover, we have a stronger and more dynamic team than the ULP in the upcoming General Elections. Under the leadership of our Political Leader, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, the NDP has assembled a talented team of youth and experience. This dedicated team is committed to implementing our comprehensive development plans, aimed at transforming St Vincent and the Grenadines, restoring hope among our people, and significantly improving the quality of life for all Vincentians. Political Leader, Honourable Dr Godwin Friday, made the following comment about his team, “We have a critical election coming and I have assembled the best team ever to form a slate to contest elections in this country. My team is a team for the times. We understand the issues affecting Vincentians; for the young people is full steam. They need a government that has their back. My team is ready to go to the polls. They are ready and eager to get to work for the people. I am eager to get to work as your Prime Minister.”
We will tackle the Cost-of-living crisis. It is causing a significant financial burden on Vincentians, so the NDP has proposed a comprehensive 5-point action plan aimed at alleviating the ongoing cost of living crisis faced by Vincentians:
Our plan includes:
* Reduce VAT from 16% down to 13%;
* Reduce the Customs Service Charge;
* Increase support for lowerincome families;
* Reduce the impact of the fuel surcharge on VINLEC bills;
* Review the list of VAT items with a view to increasing the number of zero-rated items.
The NDP is committed to building a nation of opportunity and hope for all Vincentians. Central to this vision is the belief that every individual should have access to meaningful opportunities for growth and development. By focusing on creating quality jobs and better-paying jobs, we aim to empower individuals and families to thrive. To achieve this, we will establish the National Jobs and Skills Agency. An agency that will act as a one-stop shop for businesses seeking to expand or hire more people.
We will construct a Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Centre of Excellence to give and expand technical training to ensure that young people have the skills needed to be employed. The jobs creation package will also include a tax support scheme for any business that hires five (5) new and additional people within a year. It will give back a portion of tax to those businesses that do so.
The NDP is ready to implement its impressive programs and policies that will transform St Vincent and the Grenadines. Vincentians should elect the NDP at the next General Elections.
The need for prudence
“Prudence is the knowledge of things to be sought, and those to be shunned ” – Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BCE — 43 BCE), Roman philosopher, orator, and statesman
THE OXFORD DICTIONARYof Philosophy defines prudence as “Concern for one’s own future wellbeing. Prudence requires being able to conceive and empathize with one’s own future concerns, and so has been advanced as a halfway house between pure selfishness of the present moment, and the altruistic concern for the wellbeing of others.” It conjures up the image of engaging in rational, objective thought so that our present decisions do not hinder or tarnish future events. It invokes the imagery of a disciplined mind that is focused on making wise decisions today that are likely to result in positive outcomes tomorrow. Another way of looking at it would be to engage in efforts now to avoid danger, disappointment, and heartache in the future.
The Italian artist Tiziano Vecellio (1488-1576), also known as Titian, was considered to be one of the most influential painters of the Italian Renaissance. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest painters of all time. He was especially admired for his mastery of colour, composition, and portraiture. It is said that in the late 1560s or early 1570s a member of the Italian royal family had commissioned him to create a portrait that will depict prudence. The talented artist proceeded to create an oil painting that is now on display in the National Gallery in London and is referred to a Titian’s “Allegory of Prudence”. Some refer to the profound and perplexing oil painting as “Allegory of Time Governed by Prudence.”
The painting shows three human heads, each of a different age, that are nestled above three animal heads and forming a symbolic trinity. The human head at the left depicts an elderly man looking to the left, with a wolf directly beneath him. At the centre is a middle-aged man facing forward and having a lion depicted directly below him. The image of the man on the right is that of a young man looking to the right with a dog directly beneath him as the final animal in the portrait.
The three human heads represent the three ages of man — youth, maturity, and old age. The animals correspond to the past (wolf), present (lion), and the future (dog) and appear to be echoing the classical associations with time.
Titian had placed a Latin inscription above the figures. When translated to modern day English they conveyed: “From the experience of the past, the present acts prudently, lest it spoil future actions.” This describes prudence as a virtue dependent on memory, intelligence, and foresight. We continue to be fascinated by the rapid development of technology, instant communication, and the lure that these bring in relation to influencing the population to pursue instant gratification. Some young persons (and older ones too) appear to be impulsive in their search for instant fulfilment. The level of impatience among some citizens can often be mind-boggling. Prudence has therefore become more essential than ever. It beckons us to embrace its often-quiet force to be wise and thoughtful. Parents, teachers and other concerned
citizens have a tremendous responsibility and privilege to share stories and anecdotes (like the one about Titian’s painting) with the intention of strengthening their resolve to make careful judgements and to take a measured approach to decisionmaking. It embodies the development of a disciplined life that is focused on long-term good rather than short-term gain. This is especially critical during the sensitive and “fragile” adolescent years when minds and bodies are in transition from childhood to being young adults.
Prudent individuals engage in strategic foresight and avoid the temptation to chase trends or expansion opportunities unless they have committed to careful analysis. Sometimes prudent individuals see the wisdom of seeking the views and insights from other people. They are disciplined enough to calculate the risks involved in the various possibilities. It is not that they are risk-averse, but they consider the broader impact on others. Their choices are grounded in sustainability and guided by ethics. This foresight is increasingly necessary in an everunpredictable economy where impulsive decisions can lead to severe consequences, including financial downfall or serious reputational damage.
Examples abound of politicians whose wise and disciplined approach to public service has created and sustained positive legacies beyond their sojourn in active politics. However, the political arena is also rife with examples of public officials who were focused on immediate gain and veered away from integrity. A prudent policymaker considers expert advice (even when they differ from their own) and the long-term implications of their actions. In a world where misinformation spreads speedily and reactionary politics can create and sustain deep societal rifts, it is imperative that the political leadership engage in level-headed judgements channelled by prudence.
The need for prudence is especially necessary on a personal level as we seek to navigate everyday challenges and cope with the various temptations that lure the innocent and unsuspecting to be reckless and/or to engage in risky behaviours. Whether it is in relation to relationships, health, or financial planning, prudent decisionmaking promotes stability and personal development. As the digital age introduces and intensifies new complexities, individuals continue to be bombarded by choices that are often based on what feels good in the moment. However, prudence urges us to pause, reflect, and choose what is genuinely beneficial in the long run; it motions for restraint and critical thinking. It invites responsible thought that can become a powerful force for good for self and for the society. In a world that often rewards speed over thoughtfulness, focusing on prudence as a core value is not just wise — it is necessary.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Are Democrats about to Commit Political Suicide?
MAYBE THERE was a time in the past when a candidate to become New York City’s mayor prompted as much fervour in some quarters and as much fear and loathing in others as Zohran Mamdani, but I do not recall it.
In the 100—odd days until the city votes Nov. 4, we – New Yorkers and the rest of us– are in for political warfare that could turn out to be epochal. This will be a riveting campaign season; it is unlikely to be a pretty one.
Mamdani wowed New York City and the rest of the country when, on July 1, he trounced the Democratic field to win the party’s nomination to run for mayor.
The Democratic establishment, which had bet on Andrew Cuomo, was stunned. Cuomo, a machine pol who resigned as governor of New York four years ago amid accusations of sexual harassment, was considered a shoo-in.
Then came the blow: Mamdani took 56 percent of the vote in the Democratic primary, to Cuomo’s 44 percent. Figures don’t always lie, and liars don’t always figure.
Mamdani is a true phenom, an energetic 33-year-old full of policy proposals that address the real problems of real people. A free bus system, a freeze on rents in half the city’s apartments, supermarkets run by the city, a properly redistributive tax regime to address the near-toobscene inequality New Yorkers endure: These are good ideas, ideas with obvious appeal to Democratic voters, ideas expressive of his commitment to dynamic change.
Mamdani also takes a principled position against the Israelis’ shocking barbarities in Gaza and then America’s support of them.
But one’s strengths are at times also one’s vulnerabilities, as Mamdani is about to discover. On Monday, July 14, Cuomo announced he will stay in the race as an independent with the all-but-stated intent of preventing New York from falling “in the hands of the far left.”
Cuomo, whose term as governor reeked of opportunism and corruptibility if not proven corruption, is now the unseemly front end of an attack on Mamdani that is unlikely to relent until this race is decided.
Wall Street bankers and corporations, real estate developers, the Israel lobby, corporate media, the Democratic mainstream are all lining up to make sure Mamdani does not win come Nov. 4. He’s a Marxist, a socialist, a Communist, a lunatic, of course, an anti—Semite. President Donald Trump has wondered aloud whether he should have Mamdani arrested or have Mamdani’s citizenship stripped.
The battle has been joined between Democratic Party elites and the voters they are increasingly committed to suppressing, between money and democratic process, between power and the forces for change that gather as we speak, not only in New York but across the country.
We have been here before, of course. But the risk that the Democrats will destroy themselves as they attempt to destroy Mamdani is greater than ever.
Here is Mamdani on ‘Meet the Press’ Sunday after his victory: ‘We can beat anyone that’s in this
race because what we’ve shown is that this is a campaign that has the support of more than 400,000 New Yorkers. For too long, politicians have pretended to simply be bystanders to a cost-of-living crisis. Our vision will respond to it and make this a city affordable for every New Yorker.’
And Mamdani, when asked about the Gaza crisis in an interview with Politico during his campaign in April:
‘I think what is incumbent to do is to stop subsidising a genocide. And that’s what we’ve seen over more than a year. And it’s what we’ve seen intensify right now with Donald Trump.’
This is a political candidate who says what he means, and what he means reflects the realities currently facing Americans. I could not help noticing a couple of things in the news as Mamdani’s victory sank in.
One, there has been a spate of worry recently as various studies have come out indicating a radical shift in public opinion about Israel, Palestinians and the former’s campaign of terror against the latter in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. A decade ago, a Gallup poll showed Democrats favoured Israel over the Palestinians by a margin of 36 percentage points. Last February, Gallup found that Democrats sympathised with Palestinians over Israel by a margin of 36 percentage points.
Two, just as I was putting these events side-by-side in my mind –the opinion polls on Israel, Mamdani’s brilliant rise to political prominence and the instantly frenetic response among various elites, In its July 15 issue Grayzone published a segment concerning the annual retreat of the great and good that Allen & Co., a long-influential merchant bank that keeps well out of the public eye, has run for many years.
‘Chuck Schumer, the Democratic minority leader [in the Senate] is heading for Sun Valley, Idaho, this week to meet with Hollywood elites and Big Tech elites in a semi-secret, off-the-record retreat .… and they’re basically all conspiring to determine who will be the next Democratic leader. This is how it works.’
Bill Ackman, the billionaire hedgefund manager, promises hundreds of millions of dollars to support Eric Adams, New York’s current mayor, as the man to take down Mamdani. Adams, of course, faced federal corruption charges until President Trump ordered the case thrown out.
My question is how long this kind of anti-democratic ugliness can remain how it works.
Voters in New York, where Democrats outnumber Republicans by a margin of six to one, have just told their party they favour a candidate who promises imaginative change.
They have announced that they want America to be something new, another kind of America. But there is no reply from the party’s upper reaches. You would think these elites would listen and learn at this point, but they show no inclination to do either.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
Extract from an article by guest columnist Patrick Lawrence
A burden to society: Teenage Pregnancy
HAS ANYONEelse noticed an increase in the number of pregnant teenagers and young mothers? Has it become a norm or is it still a social ill? What are we doing as a people to tackle this issue? We should all be concerned especially as tax-paying, law-abiding and responsible citizen.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a developing and poor nation. Teenage pregnancy will forever be a noose around our necks and preventing us from fulfilling our true potential.
Being a parent is a serious responsibility and should never be entered into flippantly. Having a child, although a blessing, can be a tremendous strain physically, financially, emotionally and socially. That is why responsible and mature adults not minors/children should be candidates for parenthood.
Are teenagers so aware? With the Age of Consent law rearing its ugly head for many years and young people now
being exposed to negative influences that promote minors having sex and babies, it is no wonder there is an increase in teenage pregnancy.
We claim to be more superior to and more intelligent than animals, but do we act that way?
In the animal kingdom, they actually wait until they are mature or fully developed to engage in sexual activity (copulate) and have their offspring.
Do you see kittens having kittens, piglets having piglets, maggots having maggots, chicks having chicks, etc.?
Animals would properly prepare for the arrival of their offspring, and when they are born most take excellent care of their young throughout their development. Animals are not such dumb creatures and perhaps we can observe and learn a thing or two from them.
Why aren’t we taking a lead form the animal kingdom? A child having a child is physically dangerous for both
mother and child, and can lead to immediate and future health complications. Further, teenage pregnancy can give rise to premature births and add to the infant mortality rate.
A child being in charge of another human being’s welfare spells disastrous, especially when there is no emotional and financial support from responsible adults. Teenage parents, inexperienced and illequipped, still have a lot of growing up to do. They have absolutely no business raising children.
Then there is the issue of education without which teenage fathers and mothers will have difficulty finding legal and proper paying jobs to provide for their offspring?
Furthermore, how can they impart knowledge and wisdom to their children? What can they teach their young ones when they are semieducated because their schooling has been severely disrupted? Do they have the patience
and strength to cope with the demands of their children. They are themselves dependent on others.
Teenage parents eventually become adults but are wont to continue to act immaturely and make irresponsible and poor decisions. They might be considered adults, but their mental and personal development are stymied. Sadly, their children often end up having children at a young age as well, and the vicious cycle of teenage pregnancy continues.
And the toll on society cannot be overruled. An increase in the number of children being born to minors, will inadvertently lead to an increase in illiteracy, juvenile delinquency, deviant behaviours, crime, abject poverty and so forth.
Teenagers need to ask themselves some serious questions: Are they simply being careless? Do they engage in a promiscuous lifestyle, get pregnant and some even
become like baby manufacturers? Do they claim it is less expensive to have a child than to afford contraceptives? Are they tormented by emotional issues like low self-esteem and selfhate? Do they know better yet refuse to do better? Do they expect others to always pay for their choices — feed, clothe and shelter them and their offspring?
Many of the people relaying on government welfare/handouts are or were teenage parents. Does “easy money” and monetary handouts with no cut-off period help people become industrious and independent? Isn’t it more effective to teach people how to do something instead of constantly doing it for them?
Everyone on welfare should attend mandatory adult education and continuation classes, and also learn how to budget
and organise their finances.
Teenage pregnancy is a social ill that is crippling our society. We should put our collective thinking cap on and create realistic and innovative ways of eradicating teenage pregnancy, which will in turn, mark a significant decline in poverty and many other problems. We should not add to the negativity by sitting idly by and saying nonsense like “Well, this is the end of times and things will never get better”. If we are so weak-minded and pessimistic, we might as well blow up the entire island. Wrong! Let us be positive and a part of the solution instead of the problem. Changing things might seem like a mammoth task, but it can be done by being honest, positive and constructive.
KSR
Charles tipped for Basketball Scholarship
VEDEL CHARLES, WHO HAILS FROM THE VILLAGEof Diamonds, has been shortlisted for a Basketball scholarship in the United States.
Charles was identified as a scholarship recipient during the Mavrix Basketball Club’s International Summer Basketball Camp, which concluded last Sunday at the Calliaqua Hardcourt.
The camp was conducted in collaboration with the ASASA Academy of Arizona, USA.
When THE VINCENTIAN caught up with Charles at one of her training sessions during the camp, she expressed how “excited” she was about being considered for a scholarship.
She recalled starting her basketball career while she was a form three student at the St. Joseph’s Convent and being asked to join the Mavrix basketball club. Her passion for the sport increased as she developed as a member of the Mavrix Basketball Club, and she is today the captain of that Club’s female team.
Vedel has her eyes focused on becoming a professional basketball player and becoming the third Vincentian to play in the WNBA, USA.
She was pleased to say that she has had some interaction with one of those Vincentians - Sancho Lyttle.
She has accepted that she has to adapt to the style of play and the training regimens that the sport in the USA demand.
She is thankful for the opportunity provided by this year’s Camp to work out under the guidance of coach Camron Turner from the Arizona Eastern Basketball team in Arizona, USA.
And as for what her achievements to date mean for others, she is hopeful that what she has accomplished so far will encourage others to work harder at their game.
“I hope it will motivate them to push themselves more… because nothing in life comes easy.”
Charles was grateful to those who helped her along the way. “First of all, I want to thank God, my parents, Suzette Jackson, Steve and Deloris Charles, coach Richard Cato, Vasha Adams, Wayne Williams. If it wasn’t for Wayne Williams, I won’t have really started basketball.”
The Summer Camp
Over 32 young basketball players and aspiring players attended this year’s Mavrix Basketball Club’s International Summer Basketball Camp. This complement included 11 females.
Richard Cato, head coach of the Mavrix Basketball Club, established in 1998, was delighted to have collaborated with ASASA Academy of Arizona, USA, in facilitating the camp.
The initiative was spearheaded by coach Anthony Roy, while coach Camron Turner from the Arizona Eastern Basketball Camp team in Arizona, US, conducted the actual training exercises.
These sessions were streamed live back to the USA so that a wider pool of talent scouts had the opportunity to view the Vincentian youngster on show.
Cato is pleased that up to nine players were identified as possible candidates for scholarship in the USA.
The 2025 camp received support from: National Lotteries Authority, Eastern Caribbean Group of
I.B.A.
Companies, Facey Trading, SVG Port Authority, Rubis West Indies Limited, LM’s Jewelry, Big Tigger Autos, Global Constructions, and COSCAV (Coca Cola).
ALLEN
Vedel Charles – captain of the Mavrix Basketball Club’s female team.
Richard Cato (left) was pleased to have coach Camron Turner avail his expertise to the camp.
Police Band: Letting music and more play on
THE ROYALSt. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Band is making sure the discipline that it exudes impacts others.
Towards this end, by August 14 this year, another batch of youngsters will graduate from the Police Band’s Annual Summer Programme, with a new sense of discipline and a foundation in music.
The Police Band Summer Programme runs from July 15 to August 14, 2025, at the Police Band Room at Old Montrose.
The programme, which targets children and youth, 9 and 15 years, is aimed at fostering discipline, teamwork, and civic awareness through musical instruction and other activities.
Participants will be tutored in the rudiments of playing the saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, keyboard, drums, steel pan, guitar, and others they are keen to learn.
Lecture sessions will feature topics such as Human Trafficking and Bullying, and these will be complemented by field trips and sporting activities.
Band Master Inspector Vaughn Miller pointed to the importance of the Summer Programme at Peace Memorial Hall on Thursday, July 18 when the 2025 Programme, themed ‘Harnessing young minds during Summertime’, was launched.
Addressing the participants gathered, Miller insisted that discipline must be the order of the exercise. He looked at the summer event as steering youngsters to worthwhile careers.
“We would love to see you become members of the Police Band,” Miller expressed and referred to instances of persons joining not just the Police Band, but other areas of Police service after participating in the Police
Summer programmes.
Parents were urged to pay attention to their children’s involvement in the Police Band programme.
Miller insisted that “ill-discipline will not be tolerated,” and urged participants to have confidence in themselves, build friendships, and challenge each other in healthy rivalry.
Superintendent Heron Ballantyne, delivering remarks on behalf of Commissioner of Police Mr. Enville Williams, underscored the program’s impact beyond the realm of music.
He endorsed the Police Band programme as well as the Police Youth Club Camp, Coast Guard Camp, AntiTrafficking in Persons Unit Awareness-raising programme, also being staged during the school break.
Ballantyne urged participants to “embrace this opportunity,” and reminded them to “take it seriously,” and not to look at it as a “chance to get away from home.”
Ballantyne’s view was echoed by Marla Nanton-James of the Ministry of Education, herself a musician and cultural activist.
“Soak up everything from the programme,” Nanton James advised. “Take part with an open mind and encourage each other,” she added.
An interlude by Sergeant Raymond Power on trumpet kept the audience enthralled. There was a musical trio which added variety and impact.
The SVG Police Force described the 2025 Police Band Summer Programme as a “… shining example of how law enforcement can engage meaningfully with youth. More than just a summer activity, it is a transformative space where talent is nurtured, values are reinforced, and tomorrow’s changemakers are shaped through the powerful language of music and mentorship.”
Band Master Inspector Vaughn Miller is keen to have the sense of discipline of the Police Band filter down to the participants.
Superintendent Heron Ballantyne urged the participants not to consider the Programme as an opportunity to simply get away from home.
Participants at a previous Summer Programme combine to offer a rendition of reed instruments.
A trio of Police Band members provided an interlude of well-received renditions.
Police Officers receive REDPPOL training
THE ROYAL Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) is proud to announce the successful graduation of from the prestigious REDPPOL programme (Police Professional Development Network), a regional initiative with a focus on equipping officers with the tools and mindset to confront transnational crime through cooperation and innovation.
The officers completed the III Curso Presencial de Capacitación Policial (Third In-Person Police Training Course), held from June 22 to July 17, 2025, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and organised by the Escuela de Seguridad Multidimensional (ESEM - Multidimensional Security School) of the Universidad de São Paulo (USP - University of São Paulo), in partnership with the Organization of American States REDPPOL serves as the platform uniting officers from 28 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, building networks to confront modern security threats collaboratively.
This course delivered 180 hours of intensive training, blending theoretical learning with practical application in areas such as public affairs, institutional strengthening, and transnational crime response. Participants were evaluated daily on content mastery, and both ASP Andrews-Thomas and Cpl. Smith met and exceeded expectations, successfully completing all modules required for certification.
The training culminated with MISPA VIII (The Eighth Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Public Security of the Americas) where all REDPPOL participants, including the Vincentian officers, presented their countries’ best policing practices before interested delegates.
One of the defining principles of the REDPPOL training is this powerful truth: “Crime and criminals have no borders, so neither should law enforcement.” That core idea guided much of the course’s methodology, encouraging cross-border problem-solving, shared operational strategies, and a spirit of regional solidarity that is increasingly essential in today’s security landscape.
Beyond coursework, the program emphasized network-building, with officers forming lasting professional relationships across jurisdictions. This collaborative mindset is at the heart of REDPPOL’s mission: to strengthen hemispheric cooperation and ensure that no nation faces security challenges in isolation. In this way, the RSVGPF’s presence at the table signals its readiness to lead and learn as part of a broader Caribbean-Latin American alliance.
Despite Spanish being the primary language of instruction, strong support mechanisms were in place to ensure accessibility for all participants. Officers from English-speaking nations like Saint Vincent and the Grenadines not only kept pace but contributed meaningfully to discussions, showcasing their expertise and cultural flexibility in a diverse training environment.
The RSVGPF congratulates ASP AndrewsThomas and Cpl. Smith on this significant accomplishment. Their dedication and performance reflect the Force’s commitment to professional excellence, strategic regional engagement, and the development of a modern, forward-thinking law enforcement body. The RSVGPF also extends gratitude to the OAS, USP, ESEM, and the REDPPOL network for facilitating this transformative opportunity. (Source: RSVGPF)
(from left) Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mrs. Thecla Andrews-Thomas and Corporal of Police Mr. Edson Smith successfully completed an In-Person Police Training Course.
V JCI to Host W.I Convention
THE ANTICIPATION IS BUILDING AS JUNIOR Chamber International (JCI) St. Vincent, formerly known as the St. Vincent Jaycees, is locked into preparing to host the 65th JCI West Indies National Convention from October 8– 12, 2025, the first time since 2014.
The convention carries the theme: “Creating a Brighter Future, Together in Hairouna!”
Over 180 delegates locally and regionally are slated to gather for five days of leadership training, cultural exchange, competitions, and impactful community service. International JCI Board Officers
are also expected to attend.
During the actual convention, participants will engage in activities that reflect JCI’s key pillars: leadership, entrepreneurship, debating, public speaking, and community service. Each delegate will contribute to a local impact project aimed at national development and regional solidarity.
Adding to the excitement, the convention will be preceded by the inaugural JCI West Indies Leadership Academy, a historic first in the region. This intensive three-day workshop is designed to
strengthen leadership capacity among emerging change-makers, empowering a new generation of Caribbean leaders through a series of skills development sessions.
Will received support (for which JCI (St. Vincent) is grateful, from
Support for hosting the 65th JCI West Indies National Convention will come from: the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Tourism Authority; D H L St. Vincent; Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BoSVG); General Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU); Argyle International Airport (AIA); Swiftpac St. Vincent; Unicomer Limited; LaVue Boutique Hotel; Gaymes Book Centre; and St. Vincent Planned Parenthood Association.
JCI (St. Vincent) is grateful for this kind support, without which hosting the convention would not have been possible.
First MyApp Summer Programme concludes
ON JULY 23, 2025, THE NATIONAL Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) concluded the first of its three (3) MyApp Summer Programmes for the year with a closing ceremony at the Canouan Secondary School.
Thirteen students from the Canouan Secondary School participated in the first session which began on July 10, 2025, gained hands-on experience in coding and robotics. Over the course of the session, students learned to code using the Micro: bit–a pocket-sized microcontroller–and built their own robots, which they then programmed to perform specific tasks.
In addition to the classroom-based learning, participants were treated to a field trip to Sandy Lane Yacht Club and Residences, where they received a guided tour of the facility. During the visit, students were introduced to the technical operations behind running a high-end resort and marina, offering them a real-world glimpse into how technology supports the hospitality industry.
The Valedictorian of the programme received a laptop compliments FLOW and will have the opportunity to participate in the NTRC’s icode784 Competition Robotics Category which will conclude on October 22, 2025.
The Second Session is set to begin at the St. Vincent Grammar School on July 28, 2025, for 2 weeks, followed by the third at the Central Leeward Secondary School beginning on August 4, 2025, for the same duration.
The NTRC extends its gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the Principal of Canouan Secondary School, Sandy Lane Yacht Club and Residences and our sponsors: Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Spazio VC, Flow, Digicel, St. Vincent Port Authority, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Massy Stores Ltd, Vinlec, Facey Trading, Open Integration and Bonadies Supermarket #2, for making this program possible. We also thank the parents of all participants for their support.
Remembering Bentley Browne
RETIRED senior civil servant and Upstage Xperience Calypso Tent founded, Bentley Browne, has been hail as an exceptional human being.
He passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, after battling an undisclosed illness.
Brown served as head of the Central Planning Unit during his last stint in the Government Service here, and later served as the Director of Social and Sustainable Development at the OECS Secretariat.
He was also, between 2007 and 202, the Chief Executive Officer of SVG Social Investment Fund (SIF).
Browne, Ian Veira, Lennox Bowman, Joel Providence, Richard McLeish and Stephen Huggins founded the Upstage Xperience Calypso Tent in 2005.
Minister of Urban Development, Energy, Seaports, Grenadines Affairs and Local Government, Senator Benarva Browne, the daughter of Bentley Browne, paid tribute to her father on a Facebook post.
She said that it is with a heavy heart, “I share the passing of my beloved father, Bentley Browne, a man of exceptional strength, grace, and deep love. His legacy of love and resilience will continue to inspire us,” said Browne in her post.
She expressed thanks on behalf of her family and herself. “Thank you to everyone who stood by us during his illness. Your prayers, messages, visits, and quiet kindness meant more than words can express. As we begin this new chapter without him, we hold on to the love he gave and the legacy he leaves behind,” the Urban Development minister said
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves expressed sadness at the passing of Bro. Browne. Speaking on Radio two Sundays ago, the Prime Minister described Browne as an exceptional human being.
“Bentley was a very progressive, highly acclaimed professional, not only here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines but across the region, and the people at OECS, know the high quality of his work,” said Gonsalves, adding that Browne was a man of great sensitivity to the poor and working class.
“We not gonna have many like Bentley passing this road again; he was just simply an exceptional human being,” Gonsalves proclaimed.
The local Calypsonian Association also expressed
sadness at the passing of Browne. President, Earl ‘Cabb’a Bennett’s expressions were articulated during a Press Conference hosted by the Carnival Development Corporation. He described Browne as a stalwart in the calypso fraternity. Bentley Browne was laid to rest on Monday, July 21st. (KH)
Bentley Browne (1956 – 2025)
Emancipation Cricket Festival in SVG
From Page 8
Promptly, CPL issued a letter dated July 14, 2025, to the government authorities (Annette Mark, CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority) that it was “delighted” at the holding of the ECF, confirmed that CPL had “no objection” to the ECF, wished it “success in celebrating” this landmark, and offered further help, if needed. The owner of CPL is a white man from anti-colonial Ireland, Denis O-Brien, who incidentally heads “Repair”, an advocacy group for reparations; he understands Emancipation and Cricket, but some “black skins in white masks”, to use Frantz Fanon’s telling description, do not. Shallow and his side-kicks were despondent; so, the CWI “empire” decided to strike back by having CPL’s Chief Executive Officer, Pete Russell, write another letter dated July 16, 2025 to the government indicating that in accord with their agreement with CPL, CWI’s approval is also needed; clearly, a threatening dark hand, behind the scenes, prompted CPL’s second letter. Shallow and his shallow ones including the perpetually sad cases who are too blind with political partisanship to be truthful eyewitnesses, and too deaf by malice to be reliable earwitnesses, in tow were gleeful.
The government of SVG, through its Prime Minister, calmly reiterated that the ECF is going on and it would not be writing CWI because it has no reason so to do. This justifiable statement, the affirmation of our country’s sovereignty, and the declaration that “the park mek to play on Emancipation Day”, placed CWI on the defensive. Meanwhile, the senior staff at CWI headquarters were openly grumbling that Shallow has gone off the deep end. William Shakespeare had long ago advised aptly in Measure for Measure: “But man, proud man, dressed in little brief authority, most ignorant of what he’s more assured.”
The public heat on CPL, and its desire not to accommodate Shallow’s folly, occasioned a third letter, dated July 18, 2025, to Annette Mark, the contents of which are revealing of Shallow’s empty and futile machinations:
“As you are aware from my previous correspondence, CPL is delighted to be able to give its sanction to the Cricket Festival. It was always our understanding that CWI had no objections to the staging of the event, and it was a matter of process to get the necessary approvals
in place from their side.
“I believe this has been resolved now; however, if it has not been, then please don’t hesitate to reach out so that I can follow up on the commitments made to CPL.” [OUR EMPHASIS]
Clearly CWI had made commitments to CPL about “no objection”, yet Shallow was on the airwaves trying to brow-beat players into submission. Absolutely pathetic! On the very July 18, 2025, CWI’s Chief Operating Officer, Lynford Inverary, wrote Annette Mark, a grovelling missive, copying this letter to Shallow; CWI’s Chief Executive Officer Chris Dehring; Clement Marcellin (President of Windward Islands Cricket Board); and Dougal James (President of SVG Cricket Association). In this letter, CWI issued its “no objection” without any formal request to it by the government of SVG.
Interestingly, the letter of CPL’s Pete Russell dated July 18th was first sent, unsigned and not on a CPL letterhead; Russell was in Guyana; a little later that day at 5:35 p.m. it was sent to Annette Mark on a CPL letterhead and signed. CWI’s letter of capitulation on July 18th was sent to Annette Mark at 4:13 p.m. clearly, there must have been ongoing conversations between CPL and CWI’s senior officials at its headquarters on the issue. The message of mature professionals to the incredibly infantile Shallow was clear: “Stop your crap, and this childishness once and for all; stop playing petty partisan politics in SVG with an important matter like the Emancipation Cricket Festival. You are not on a winning wicket; you look idiotic; we will save face for you from your own path to self-destruction. You have enough on your hands with the humiliation of Sabina. Don’t tangle anymore with Comrade Ralph on this; the park met to play on Emancipation Day.”
Nuff said! Let us celebrate in unity on Emancipation Day! Thanks to the grown-ups at CPL and CWI. Our next grand celebratory cricket festival would be in 2028, the 100th anniversary of the official test cricket status of West Indies cricket. By then Shallow would have been relegated to a mere historical foot-note, and the talented Chris Dehring would have abandoned his temporary occupation of the crease at CWI headquarters for greener pastures in a People’s National Party (PNP) government led by his friend and former business partner, Comrade Mark Golding.
Leisure
Aries (Mar. 21- April 20)
You may find acquaintances being deceptive. Your honesty will not only win you points but also respect. Get together with people who stimulate you mentally. Get involved in a competitive sport that will bring the challenges you thrive on.
Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You will not be pleased with family members who try to put demands on you when you just don’t have the time. Plan to visit friends or relatives. You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish. You may not be that popular at home but you should be able to shine at social gatherings.
Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21)
Do your chores and get on with the things you enjoy doing. Do things for them but don’t allow them to make unreasonable requests. You can benefit financially if you put money or maintenance into your living quarters.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Chances are you could get stuck with a colleague’s job unexpectedly. If you are in the midst of a financial deal, this is your lucky day. Put your efforts into job advancement.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Be careful of the groups you join or the people you associate with. Your intellectual charm will win hearts and bring opportunities that you least expect. You may find yourself caught in a triangle. Find out if they have other commitments.
Leo (July 23-Aug 22)
Your intellectual charm will entice mates who have common interests. Try to satisfy both of your needs. Lighten up your serious attitude Snap out of it.
Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book. Don’t confide in any relatives whom you know have a tendency to meddle in other people’s affairs. Try to enlist the support of your coworkers first.
Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Think twice before you agree to take on any new projects. You can buy or sell if you’re so inclined. You can get others to do things for you but be sure not to overpay them or lend them money.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
Your changing philosophies may lead you into new circles and open doors that will give you a unique outlook on life. Your ability to do detailed work will dazzle those who are less creative.
Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Don’t hesitate to come right out and ask for the pertinent information. Be sure to keep communication open with those you live with. You are best to do your research before taking on such a venture.
Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
You should socialize with clients or upper echelons of your industry if possible. Be extra careful with your valuables; loss and theft are evident this week. Be careful when dealing with superiors. Get out and get active.
Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Be prepared to jump quickly if you wish to stay in the forefront of your industry this week. Travel will enhance romance and adventure. Put financial speculation with family members or friends on the back burner for now.
SEVERAL ATHLETES WILL REIGN AS CHAMPIONS for the next year, after the completion of the two-day Team Athletics SVG’s Wendell Hercules National Championships, convened last Saturday and Sunday, July 19 and 20, 2025 respectively, at the Diamond Track Facility.
Champions of the Track
Among those crowned was X- Cel Track Club’s Mc Kish Compton who won the Men’s 100m in 10.39s. Teia Laborde of Mustangs took the female 100m title in a time of 12.14s. The Clubs exchanged crowns in the 200m with Mustangs’ AJ Delpesche taking the male 200m in 21.36s, and Shaquania Jacobs of X- Ceed Sports Club the 200mn female with a clocking of 24.71s.
Brandon Valentine-Parris made a successful return to the local track when he took the male 400m in a time of 47.33s. He represented the IT DAT Academy from which also came the 400m Women’s champion - Annecia Richards, with a time of 58.02s. Olympian Handal Roban, competing for Penn State University, won the Men’s 800m in 1:46.13. Kesiann John
of High Performance clocked a winning time of 2:32s in the female 800m.
John repeated her winning performance in the 1500m with a time of 5:33.04. Zichri Hepburn of Mustangs took the Men’s 1500m in 4:27.88.
Lau Browne of IT DAT Academy pouched the Women’s 100m Hurdles in 13.72s.
High Performance A won the women’s 4x 100m in 50.24s, and the Men’s 4x 100m in 42.64s. In similar fashion, IT DAT Academy took the Men’s 4x 400m in 3:17.29 and the Women’s four-lap race in 4:13.21.
Field Events Champions
The Men’s Long Jump was won by
Romaul James of High Performance with a leap of 6.66m. James also won the Triple Jump at 14.91m.
Taking the Women’s Long Jump title was Amaia Edwards of X- Ceed Sports Club, with a winning leap of 5.26m, and she added the Triple Jump title with a 10.49m leap.
Meanwhile, X- Ceed Sports Club copped the Men’s High Jump through Trevel Sylvan (1.96m).
IT DAT Academy’s Andre Spencer won the Men’s Discus throw, 48.15m, and the Women’s Discus via Toccara Barbour’s thrown of 30.65m.
High Performance’s Kirk Hamblett won the Men’s Shot Putt with a distance of 13.28m with Tashanique Francis, taking the Women’s Shot Putt- 8.59m.
The championships were also graced by the participation of athletes
from Velocity and Fuzion of Grenada as well as a representative from the Penn State University and a duo from Paraguay.
Zefal Bailey tops Cycling weekend
ZEFAL BAILEY WON BOTH STAGES OF THE 2025St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union’s National Cycling Championships held last Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20.
In Saturday’s Time Trial from the Kascob Building in Arnos Vale to Belvedere, Bailey registered the fastest time- 10:42, ahead of Lucky Antrobus10:43 and Martin Bollers- 12:53.
Bailey returned on Sunday to master the Elite category with a clocking of 3:05.10.92.
He was the first to reach the finish line at Casson Hill, after riding off from the decommissioned ET Joshua Airport Tarmac to Orange Hill, making a loop from Mount Young three times.
Gabriel Doyle took the Junior Category.
2:29.65 and Culzac 2:35.37.77.
Trailing Bailey by some distance was Lucky Antrobus in 3:16.26.41.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Doyle won the Junior category and his father- Deptor Culzac took the Masters.
With both categories riding from the Tarmac to Orange Hill and ending at Casson Hill, Doyle timed
Maxian Alvis, Cauldric Fraser and Martin Bollers all started the Masters’ segment, but failed to complete the distance.
Brandon Valentine-Parris – topped the 400m as expected.
Handal Roban took the tile in his pet 800m.
Kesiann John – took both the 800m and 1500m titles.
Shaquania Jacobs outran her opponents to take the 200m top position.
Annecia Richards copped the 400m.
Mc Kish Compton ran away with the 100m champion title.
Zefal Bailey – showed his dominance over the two-day Championship.
WHEN THE2025 St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association National Junior Tennis Tournament concluded last Friday, July 18, at the National Tennis Centre at Villa, five players emerged as multiple winners.
Honours decided in National Junior Tennis
Topping the list was Ethan Kent, who copped the Boys Under-14 and Under18, and took the Under-18 Doubles alongside Keythron Gaymes.
In addition, Keythron was adjudged as the male that displayed the Best Sportmanship.
Joining Kent with two singles titles was the multi-talented Loukhya Premraj, who copped the Girls Under14 and Under-18.
Likewise, Keyondre Gaymes secured the Boys Under-10 and Under-12, with Rafael Huggins winning the Under-14 Doubles.
Meanwhile, Nakayda Caine pouched the Girls Under-12 Singles and stepped up two classes to team up with Amaia
Waterstone, to win the Under-18 Doubles. Caine was also voted the female that showed the Best Sportsmanship. And Delina Grant won
the Girls Under-10 Singles.
Next up on the agenda of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis
SVG trash Grenada in Rugby Friendly
The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union (SVGRU) National Men’s 15s Team was in top form when they crushed their Grenada counterparts 51—5, in a Rugby 15s Friendly on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Sion Hill Playing Field.
The SVGRU National Men’s 15s Team delivered a commanding performance in a friendly international clash against Grenada Rugby, held with strong home crowd support, SVG secured an emphatic 51—5 victory.
With a home crowd to boost them, SVG stamped their authority early, with Kenmore “Kit” Horne opening the scoring that led the home team to a 25—0 lead by halftime.
Grenada responded with a penalty try in the second half, but SVG maintained dominance with additional tries from Dugal “Youth-I” James (second try), Kevin Cain, Tonye Robert Ogolo, and Bazid “Teddy” Delpesche. Conversions were reliably slotted by Kevin Cain.
Home boy Leonardo “Policeman” Caine was named Match MVP for his relentless defense and powerful ball carries, gaining valuable ground with every touch and setting the tone for SVG’s physical dominance.
The SVG Squad comprised: Richard “Richie” Morris (Captain), Benson “Drips” Nanton, Adam Cuffe, Dugal “Youth-I” James, Frankie Joseph, Paul “PJ” Kirby, Cornelius “CJ” John, Jean “Sleepy” Samuel, Lenardo “Policeman”
Caine — Match MVP, Kevin Cain, Jonte “Brodda” Bowens, Dimitri “Puss”
Association is the Chatoyer Under-14 Invitational, from July 25 to August 1.
Samuel, Kenmore “Kit” Horne, Bazid “Teddy” Delpesche, Sydroy “Pimpin” Bentick, Kemi Francois, Orr Miller, Tonye Robert Ogolo, Jude Glasgow, Raydony “Kiki” Laborde, Klyvert Browne, Timol Guy 23, and Mekhi Smith. Team Manager was Brian “Soap” Alexander.
Loukhya Premral – Girls U14 and U19 Singles Champion. Delina Grant - Girls U10 Singles Champion.
Leonardo Caine was adjudged match MVP.
The victorious SVG team.
The visiting Grenada team.
Endorsing the regional legacy
WHENCLR James made the publication ‘Beyond the Boundary,’ he was reflecting the Caribbean reality. For having endured the scourge of slavery, interacting with humanity is life.
Caribbean people under British domination saw their pattern of life shaped. The West Indian approach has changed the game. Changes have been regular, some subtle, other in open efforts to stagnate West Indian prowess. Rule changes to retard Caribbean flair to fashioning orders that render the Caribbean dependent of conditions are familiar.
The Caribbean, represented by the sons and daughters, has altered the status quo.
For people used to their form of leisure, cricket is an escape measure for the Caribbean. Having gathered pride in cricket, the game is a symbol of regional unity.
A Caribbean person will be identified anywhere cricket is played. Whether they are on or off the field.
I embrace the Emancipation Cricket Festival. Marking the journey enables us to reflect on the blessings that have been bestowed on us.
This Emancipation tournament creates the platform for many a Vincentian player to burst onto the big stage. The impact of broadening the horizons is a welcome addition to our productivity chain.
The spill over is exponential. From this setting, a seed is planted for the emergence of a new era in regional cricket. The thought of restoring pride to the embattled Caribbean soul brings added value to our scope.
If youngsters are not inspired by this exercise, then the effort must continue in schools and communities to instill that aspect of Caribbean dignity.
There is the melting pot of the gathering of youngsters from the Windward Islands as Windward Islands Schools Sports serve as a backdrop to the Emancipation Festival. This is an extension of sub-regional cooperation. The atmosphere contributes to a broader regional network, which is helping to strengthen unity.
Caribbean people thrive in individual countries. Cricket is a binding element.
With other sports coming to the fore as outlets for Caribbean talent, it is not surprising that the Caribbean is announcing itself as a bastion of athletes.
More of those icons will find their mark in this Windward Islands sporting rivalry. Friendship and culture formed in sporting arenas last long after those cultivated otherwise.
Therein lies the value of sport. Don’t devalue the extent of economic advances that the people’s movement engenders.
There is an impact that nurtures satisfaction across the board.
And don’t forget the link to the Prophet Old Marcus Garvey, born August 17, 1887. Perhaps the Emancipation Cricket Festival will add the Marcus Garvey legacy and include his patrimony as an endorsement.
Hooper to lead Senior Cricket Team
BOWLINGAll Rounder Asif Hooper will lead a 14member squad to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Windward Islands Senior Men Super 50 Tournament to be held in St Lucia, from July 27th to August 3rd, 2025.
Hooper takes over the leadership position from Sunil Ambris of a squad that includes three newcomers — medium fast bowler Romario Bibby and medium fast bowling All Rounders Tijourn Pope and Kodi Grant.
The squad reads: Asif Hooper (Captain), Jahiel Walters (ViceCaptain), Desron Maloney, Dillon Douglas, Sunil Ambris, Keron Cottoy, Tilron Harry, Jeremy Haywood, Othniel Lewis, Tjourn Pope, Romario Bibby, Kody Grant, Ethan Gibson, Rayon Williams. The reserves: Kirtney Franklin, Benitton Stapleton, Shaman Hooper, Romano Pierre, Devonte
Pierre strokes century in local 50 overs
Romano Pierre may just have sent a late “message’ for the national selectors.
PIERRE, national reserves for the SVG national senior team, crafted a patient century to help propel
Flow Radcliffe to an emphatic 153-run win over Victors One, in a weekend match of the National 50 Overs Cricket Competition.
Pierre stroked an even 100 that included eights 4s and four 6s, as Flow Radcliffe amassed 265 from 44 overs at the Park Hill playing field. All Rounder Richie Richards
Lara slams CWI
WEST INDIES CRICKETlegend
Brian Lara has slammed Cricket West Indies Inc., accusing the governing body for cricket in the West indies for not doing anything to keep players loyal to West Indies cricket.
He told the Trinidadian media, “ You have a lot of guys who are deciding on what to do with their careers. You have your aggressive players like Pooran who retired at 29. And honestly, it’s pretty clear why they did, there are five or six leagues around the world, and they’re able to make a substantial amount of money playing in them.
I have no problem with that. The truth is, I don’t think the West
Indies Cricket Board or the administration has done anything meaningful to keep players loyal to West Indies cricket unlike what boards in countries like England, Australia, or even India have done.”
Not to appear to be “onesided” in his assessment, Lara admitted that West Indies players are using the West Indies team as a platform, a stepping stone to secure T20 contracts across the cricketing world.
made a breezy 86 and national senior call-up Kodi Grant also supported with 33. Victors One was dismissed for 112 from 21 overs. Jerrell led the runs chase with 37, and Luke Wilson had 22. Richie Richards took ball in hand and returned figures of 6 for 32 and Othneil Lewis bagged 4 for 48.
Even more worrying, he noted, was the retirement of players from international cricket, like
Nicholas Pooran at age 29, which could spark a trend.
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
McDowald, Watson Seaton.
Team Management and Support Staff: Head Coach - Ian Allen, Manager/ Assistant Coach: Bertram Stapleton.
ROMANO
Asif Hoopernew captain of the national senior cricket team.
Romario Bibbyfast bowler.
Kodi Grantbowling All Rounder.
Tijourn Popebowling All Rounder.
WI Cricket legend Brian Lara has levelled blame on the CWI for the current dismal state of WI cricket.
62-year-old woman shot dead
From Backpage
“I heard some dog barking, and then when I pulled across my window, I saw two guys in front of my doorway. I don’t know who they really be, but they were in masks, but they put on a jacket and everything. By the time I got to go outside, they done walk ‘cross by my cousin over there and I try to shout my cousin them who bin here liming, to let them know about the gunmen, but I couldn’t shout to say gunman ‘cause, you know they might fire upon me, too. So, I just put on my pants. Just then
I see one of the youth man run come by me. They (gunmen) beat after one of the youth man. The youth man run come by me, frightened and shaking, he was about 11 or 12 years old,” the witness recalled.
Bowens’s business place is equipped with surveillance cameras and residents are hoping that the cameras might pick up something that will help with the police investigation.
Bowens is the third businessperson over the age of 60 who was shot to death in recent times.
On May 16, masked assailants entered Leslyn Davis’s business place at Belmont and shot and killed her.
Three days earlier, on the 30th May, Green Hill businessman Stephen King was sitting in his verandah, when he was approached and shot to death.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) says it is actively pursuing all leads in their investigation of Bowen’s death, Bowens’s death is recorded as the 22nd homicide for the year so far.
Stories: KENVILLE HORNE
A 62-year-old Campden Park resident was shot multiple times by two masked
WOMAN SHOT DEAD
gunmen as she sat with a friend on the steps, outside of her business place.
Sometime around 7:20 p.m. last Tuesday, July 22, gunshots rang out in the relatively peaceful community of Coconut Range in Campden Park. When the smoke cleared, Renella ‘Ada’ Bowens was left fighting for her life on the steps of her residence.
She was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries the following day.
“They just came across the road and they shot her. They didn’t really rob
her or anything like that, they just shoot her. I heard about 5 to 6 (shots), ‘cause they fired after the youth man and them here too by the roadside, everybody had to run. Who na jump over the bank, jump over the school (wall). And that kind of really shocking, ‘cause down here so don’t get dem kinda thing, “ one resident who witnessed the incident told media personnel.
He said that he first saw two masked men walking from the direction of Bethel High School.
Continued on Page 23
Wanted Grenadian shot in SVG
A PRESSrelease from The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) said it is investigating a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at approximately 8:10 p.m., along the Arnos Vale Public Road.
“According to reports, 29-year-old Shakim Akin Thomas, also known as “Shark”, was walking in the direction of Pole Yard when he was approached by an unknown assailant who opened fire, striking him in his hand, upper thigh, and lower thigh. Despite his injuries, Thomas managed to escape to the nearby St. James Medical School, where he encountered police officers and received immediate assistance,” the release stated.
One witness said she and four other people were at the bus stop outside Massy Supermarket in Arnos Vale when the shooting started. According to the witness “Someone in the backseat of a white car started to fire shots after the man. He was coming from Pole Yard side. I saw fire from the gun and we started to run. Drivers who were dropping off friends at Massy Supermarket and KFC, had to abandoned their vehicles and run into the Supermarket for cover.”
The witness confirmed that the victim fell just
outside St. James University, just across from KFC. Following news of Thomas’ shooting, information surfaced which said he was a wanted man in Grenada.
Indications were that he was wanted in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred near Andall Supermarket in Grenville, St. Andre, Grenada, on June 14, 2025.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) confirmed that Thomas was a national of Grenada who was wanted by law enforcement authorities there in connection with several offences.
“Grenadian authorities issued a regional wanted notice for his arrest in May 2023,” according to the RSVGPF.
But while the Royal Grenada Police Force in a statement, extended gratitude to the general public and to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force for their invaluable assistance in the apprehension of Mr. Thomas, persons here are at a loss as to whether Thomas was in this country since he escaped custody in Grenada in 2023.
“If he didn’t get shot, would the police here had got him,” one Arnos Vale resident speculated.
A photograph of Shakim Akin Thomas that was circulated by the Grenada Police Force since 2023.
Renella ‘Ada’ Bowens operated a successful business with her husband who predeceased her.
The area where Bowens was sitting when she was shot.
