Vin pages 17 11 17 e reader for web

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 17, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.45

www.thevincentian.com

GUNSHOT VICTIM CALLS FOR MOBILE UNIT

EC$1.50

Gunshot victim Kenville Anderson is calling on the police to provide a mobile unit in his community.

same hospital. guys in masks and one him getting away from his the opposite direction, and Anderson said that after his without,” said Anderson. attackers; but one of the men Anderson fell on the ground, A YOUNG MAN from Rockies, grandmother had left in the He said that he put up fired a shot which hit him in who was shot in his back on taxi, he decided to stay in resistance, which resulted in his back. The attackers ran in Continued on Page 3. Saturday night while heading town and hang out home, says he hopes a mobile with some friends, police patrol unit is placed in since many persons the community. were ‘chilling’ in Kenville Anderson was town following the heading to his home in “Road trip” event. by HAYDN HUGGINS 2015 and January 1, charged with, between Rockies when three men However, sometime 2017, at Bequia, being December 31, 2015, and attacked him from behind, after 9pm, he A 52-YEAR-OLD employed in the Public January 1, 2017 at before shooting him in the decided it was time Magistrate Court Bailiff, Service and being Bequia, had in his back as he attempted to to go home. turned up at the charged with the possession criminal escape. He said that Kingstown Magistrate’s performance of any duty, property, to wit EC$200 Speaking to THE when he reached Court on Tuesday, not by virtue of such in cash, under the VINCENTIAN from his the church in for bailiff duties, but to employment, corruptly Proceeds of Crime Act. hospital bed last Wednesday, Murray’s Village answer three charges of solicited, received or He pleaded not guilty Anderson recounted his where a bridge is dishonesty. obtained, property, to to the three charges terrifying experience. He said located, he was Donald Soleyn has wit EC$200, in cash for when he stood before that he had finished work but attacked. “When I been charged with, himself on account of Senior Magistrate Bertie received a call from his reach on the bridge, between December 31, anything to be Pompey. He was grandmother to take her home three guys came 2015, and January 1, afterwards done or represented by Attorney from the Milton Cato behind me; one hold 2017, at Bequia, stole omitted to be done by Roderick Jones. Memorial Hospital. He went to me here (by his EC$200 in cash, the him, in discharge of the The Bailiff, who had Donald Soleyn the hospital for her but he was shoulder), one hold property of Wayne duties of his office as been released on $1500 not ready to go home, so he me by my neck, and Peters of Bequia. bailiff of the station bail, in continued, and the hired a taxi to transport her. one hold me by my The Arnos Vale man Magistrates’ Court. connection with the matter was adjourned to But little did he know that he pants. When I look is also charged with, Soleyn is additionally matter, had his bail January 23, 2018. would become a patient at the around, I see two between December 31, by KENVILLE HORNE

BAILIFF ON CRIMINAL CHARGES

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2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

L-R: Flow executives Nolisha Miller, Nikala Williams and Andrea Liverpool.

Flow launches Christmas promotion Dominica. However, Flow is resilient and TELECOMMUNICATION determined to move GIANT FLOW has officially forward, in an effort to launched their Christmas continue to offer the promotion under the theme utmost efficient and "Everything that Matters”. reliable The promotion includes telecommunications charity donations, deals on service to nationals and Flow products and services, visitors alike. and great giveaways. Meanwhile, Marketing Nolisha Miller Manager Nikala Williams Communications spoke about the Specialist, in her opening company’s Christmas & remarks, noted that Community Outreach FLOW is cognizant that, Activities. She stated that with the operations of the for Christmas 2017, the Argyle International company would be Airport, the country is embarking on scores of expecting an Influx of projects, projects that returning nationals for have been created and are the joyous season; many aimed towards the further of whom have been away development of for years, and are Vincentian culture, yearning to experience projects that are focused and relive what they on an easier transition for remember to be returning nationals where Christmas in St. Vincent telecommunications and and the Grenadines. entertainment are She said that this year concerned. She noted that has been one of many Flow is widely known for challenges for the Flow its charitable acts, which family locally and has led it to become a regionally; as many household name in persons are fully aware of Vincentian society, and the havoc wreaked by this Christmas season, Hurricanes Irma and Flow is determined to Maria, in sister islands make a great impact on Antigua and Barbuda, the poor and needy of this Tortola, Anguilla and country. by KENVILLE HORNE

Consumer Sales Manager Andrea Liverpool spoke about the great deals on Flow products and services which include smart phones for only $129 plus FREE gift, postpaid mobile deals ,Plans packed with up to 25Gbs data, Unlimited talk and double data for 3 months. Also included in the great deals are Bundle deals which include Bundle broadband and TV , 50% off HBO movies for 3 months, FREE Fox Movies for months, FREE Flow Sport Pack for 2 months, FREE Flow Study PLUS for 1 month, and customers can choose their Christmas reward on the spot. The Consumer Sales Manager said that persons can get an instant gift with every purchase. “Our customers get to nominate someone they know to receive a Mega Life 2Make-over. Successful recipients will receive the following household appliances; $500 worth of groceries, High end smartphone, head-to-toe make-over, FREE mobile service, FREE Broadband service, FREE Cable television service and FREE Fixed line service for 1 year. Flow will also be engaging in a community outreach programme, where they will be delivering over 200 care packages to less fortunate families throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines, and will be embarking on 2 events which are solely for the purpose of Hurricane relief for islands affected, as well as a live Chinese Auction and food sale and Toy Drive for at least 100 kids in Dominica.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 3.

News 3

Is North Leeward falling apart?

The bridge in Fitz Hughes next to Vinlec Power Plant. THE INFRASTRUCTURAL damage occasioned by the floods of Christmas 2013, continue to plague residents in the North

Leeward constituency. This was highlighted during last week Tuesday’s sitting of Parliament here.

The road at Chateaubelair next to the Sharpes Playing Field.

But MP for the constituency — Roland Matthews had previously addressed the issue on his Facebook page and THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, before questions were asked of the Minister of Works — Senator Julian Francis on behalf of Matthews by his colleague, MP for Central Kingstown Hon. St. Clair Leacock, during the sitting. Matthews, in his Facebook post, noted that he had highlighted many times, the neglect of the North Leeward constituency by the ULP administration. He posted: ‘I spoke of and showed pictures right here on Facebook, of that famous death trap in Coulls Hill, and the dilapidated wharf in the town of Chateaubelair. The many roads that have been untouched since the flood damage of 2013 I have noted as well. Nothing has been done. At this moment, three bridges have been compromised in the town, and in the opinion of many, these could have been prevented if the powers that be did timely inspections, and put measures in place to check the weaknesses. These bridges need fixing with utmost urgency, and I hope this will be done and will not be used to garner votes. The people of North Leeward deserve better.’. A number of photographs of damaged areas in Sharpes , Chateaubelair, Fitz Hughes and Golden Grove accompanied Matthews’ text. In addition, the MP also referred to the “rampant” unemployment,

especially among young people, that currently characterizes the constituency, and contended that no effort was being made to address the issues. ‘There is no effort it seems to even provide the avenue to learn a skill. Agriculture and fishing which provided a livelihood for many in NL (North Leeward) are given little support from government. Many farmers have left their lands due to the limited resources available. Fishing took a severe blow in 2013 when many fisher folk lost nets, boats and engines. The government promised to assist, but up to date no assistance was given. I hope that the government take these matters seriously and address with urgency the concerns of the constituency,’ Matthews posted. Responding to the issue concerning infrastructural damage, in Parliament on Tuesday 7th , Senator Francis said that he was aware of the situation, and that works were in the pipeline to deal with most of the issues raised, but he did not give a specific timeline. Senator Francis explained, though, that the Golden Grove road was a capital project that had been identified as part of the World Bank financing. “Like the Chataubelair jetty and similarly the link road from Golden Grove back to the North Leeward Highway or the Fitz Hughes flat, it’s an extensive retaining wall construction that is required and we intend to have this included,”

The road close to the resource center in Golden Grove shows signs of slipping away. added Francis. He also noted that the two portions of the North Leeward Highway close to the boxing plant at Richmond required major work, such as river defenses and road rehabilitation. This, according to Francis, will all be taken on by BRASA, but no time frame had been decided on as yet. Concerning the road next to the Sharpes

Playing Field in Chataubelair, Francis said that it will take $153,000 to repair it, and such works have been included in a programme to be funded by the Taiwanese. “Some of these works are better done when the (rain) flow is not as heavy, and I would say that, maybe January might be a better time to attack these matters,” Francis posited. (KH)

Gunshot victim calls for mobile unit Continued from Front Page. but managed to get back up. Even though a number of vehicles passed by, no one helped him. He eventually made his way to a friend’s house, but not before falling down two more times. He was quickly transported to the hospital by his friend, an action that Anderson credited for saving his life. “I asked my friend for some water, but he said time is running out and I need to get to the hospital.” Anderson said that he is not in any conflict with anyone, he felt that the attackers wanted to rob him. He is, however, lucky to be alive, and is calling on the police to place a mobile patrol unit in his community because “too much things are happening there”. The police said that they are investigating the matter, but up to press time, no one has been arrested.

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4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Police slip-up upsets Prosecutor Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

SENIOR PROSECUTOR Adolphus Delpleche responded in a loud and upset manner to a police slip-up in a gun-related matter at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. His response came following the reading of the facts in the case, in which Romario Bynoe, 21year-old mini-bus conductor of Argyle, pleaded guilty to possession of a homemade firearm, without licence. Delpleche observed that the component parts of the firearm were not recorded in the facts. Visibly upset and annoyed, the Prosecutor told the Court that just last week, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) held a meeting in which the Balistic experts were present, and the DPP explained what was supposed to be done. Delpleche said that he could say for a fact that the firearm in question had component parts, and was a firearm under this country’s Firearms Act, based on his discussions with the ballistic

expert who had examined the weapon. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne pointed out that having the component parts of the gun recorded was critical in the definition of firearms. The Firearms Act Chapter 386, revised edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2009, section 2, under the heading Firearm Means, states (a) any lethal barrel weapon capable of discharging any shot, bullet or missile, (b) any restricted or prohibited weapon, and (c) any component part of a weapon described at paragraph a or b. Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday afternoon, the Senior Prosecutor explained that, in the case of a homemade firearm, once any part of that weapon falls within the description of a firearm in subsection a or b, as aforementioned, such a firearm, even if it cannot discharge a missile in its present state, is still classified as a firearm, under the Firearms Act of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche because it has component parts, as stated in subsection c. Bynoe was arrested on October 15, during the execution of a search warrant at the home of Gaylene Simon at Victoria Village, in respect of control drugs. Simon and Bynoe were met at home, and during a search of a clothes basket in Bynoe’s room, the gun was found in a bandana. When cautioned, he admitted that it was his, but claimed that he found it. Bynoe was sentenced to 3 months in prison for possession of the firearm without licence, to run concurrently with an 18-month sentence he is serving for ammunition possession. He was unrepresented.

Youth, accused of robbing tourist, remanded SENIOR Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche has urged investigators in the matter involving the alleged daylight robbery of a cruise ship visitor in Kingstown last week Wednesday, to work conscientiously to have the matter expedited. Delpleche was making oral submissions at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, in objecting to bail for the accused, Jervany Baptiste, 22-year-old labourer of Rose Place, Kingstown. Baptiste is charged with the robbery of an unknown man, of an unknown address, of a gold bangle, value also unknown. He is also accused of assaulting police sergeant Keith McBurnett, and resisting arrest. The charges, to which he was not required to plead, reportedly stem from an incident at Bentick Square, Kingstown, around 11 a.m. last week Wednesday, November 8, in which a cruise ship visitor was allegedly accosted and robbed. The Senior Prosecutor told the Court that the virtual complainant was a visitor to these shores, hence the investigations were ongoing. He added that, in light of the current tourist

season, the investigators are of the view that the accused, believed to have a propensity for such offences, may commit similar offences, if released on bail. Delpleche pointed out that Baptiste cannot be kept on remand indefinitely, and therefore urged the investigators to work conscientiously, to have the matter Jervany expedited. Baptiste Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne upheld the prosecutor’s objection, and remanded the accused until next Monday, November 20, when he will return to Court. Baptiste was without legal representation.

Deputy COP assures increased police presence DEPUTY Commissioner of Police Colin John has assured an increased presence of police officers on the streets of Kingstown, during cruise ship visits. “We always have police officers on the streets during cruise ship visits, but we would increase this presence on the streets of Kingstown”, John, performing the duties of Acting Commissioner of Police, in the absence of Commissioner (Ag.), Renold Hadaway, who was out of state, told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. Speaking on the issue of visitors’ safety, following the daylight robbery of a cruise ship visitor at Bentick Square, Kingstown, last week Wednesday, John said, “It is unfortunate that millions of dollars are being spent on Tourism Promotion, while the confidence of this country as a tourism destination could be eroded by silly or greedy persons”. The Deputy Commissioner admitted that, “it is really incumbent on the police to make their presence visible, generally, but moreso during cruise ship visits”.

Deputy COP lauds elevated officers DEPUTY Commissioner of Police Colin John, performing the duties of Acting Commissioner, in the absence of Commissioner (Ag.) Renold Hadaway, out of the state up to press time Wednesday, has lauded 65 recently promoted officers, and urged them to continue doing their best to enhance the organization, and to serve the public to the best of their ability. The promotions took effect from November 9, and involved members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) from the rank of Deputy Constable up to Assistant Commissioner Superintendent. of Police Colin Former Inspectors John Ballah John. and Adrian Francois were promoted to Assistant Superintendents (ASP), while Benzil Samuel was the only officer to move from ASP to Superintendent. Grafton Samuel, Elgin Richards, Sylvester John, Henry providence and Junior Nero were elevated from Station Sergeants to Inspectors, while Wilmet John, Brian Archibald, Elva Creese-Charles, Angus Morris and Markneil Ellis, who all held the rank of Sergeant, are now Station Sergeants. The newly elevated sergeants are Ophelia FoyleLyttle, Gregory Williams, Dorothy WalkerSimmons, Parnel Browne, Casey Morris, Godwin Charles, Clifton Jacobs, Michelle Francis, Casanki Quow, Cornelius Tittle, Samuel Mitchell, and Shawn Chandler, who all acted in that capacity, prior to their recent elevation Cuthbert Wilson and St. Clair Horne, moved from corporals to sergeants. Gamal Bowens, Colin May, Brian Jordan, Karla Tim, Keil Rodgers, Kaywana Fredericks-Gibson, Omaro Thomas, Rodney Smith, Shaky Green, Omaro Thomas, Tonia Richards, Nixon Lewis and Rodney Swift, who all acted as corporals, now have their positions confirmed. Kevrin Jack and Winston Samuel moved from constables to corporals. Former corporals 169 Browne, 393 McKenzie, 776 Billy, 645 Richardson, 567 Tittle, 37 Ash, 97 John, 741 Lockhart and 444 Jones moved to acting sergeants, while former constables 523 Pitt, 403 John, 240 James, 332 Thomas, 85 Browne, 263 Sergeant, 267 Cupid, 541 Simmons, 412 Noel, 269 Franklyn, 758 Lewis, 287 Cupid, and 509 Soloman were promoted to acting corporals. Coast Guard officer Junior Baptiste was elevated from Leading Seaman to Petty Officer, while Shawn Power was moved from Acting Leading Seaman to Leading Seaman. Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, the Deputy Commissioner commented, “The Promotions are well deserved. Equally well deserved persons could have also been promoted, but the spaces were limited. I want to urge them all to continue to work hard, to continue to do their best to enhance the organization and to serve the public to the best of their ability”. John added that the vast majority of the Police Force are loyal, hardworking and dedicated. “This makes my job as Deputy Commissioner a lot easier. I want to encourage police officers to do or continue to do personal introspection to see where they are in terms of performance. “This will enable you (officers) to work on your weaknesses and consolidate your strengths”.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 5.

News

PBSS Inventors, Phyziah Craigg (l) and Nyron Collins.

LX2 winners in the Open App category – Jana Lewis (l) and Terbry Lewis.

The duo of Jared Nichols and Stanisclaus Gomes – team Astra – winners of the 2017 Secondary Mobile App.

SVGS on top in IT competition “WE’RE ELEVEN!!!! And we won – that feels great,” exclaimed a jubilant Jared Nichols, the second form student from the St Vincent Grammar School and the winner in the Secondary Mobile App category at this year’s NTRC I2 competition. The team of 12-year-old Nichols and 11-year-old Stanisclaus Gomes, known as ‘Astra,’ beat out ‘Maks Squad’ of the St Vincent Girls’ High School into second and ‘Breaking Point’ of the St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown into third, with their app called ‘AIA’ in the Secondary Mobile App category. Nichols explained that their app was created to help those using the Argyle International Airport to book flights. “Our app’s main idea was to help people and the airport,” Nichols explained. The idea, according to the team, was born after they realized that airports around the world have apps, so they came together and decided to create

one for the local international airport. They were both confident about taking the top prize, which also included EC$3,000, four tablets and a case of Vita Malt; but their optimism paid off. The Petit Bordel Secondary School, comprising of the team of Phyziah Craigg and Nyron Collins — ‘PBSS Inventors’ — won the Secondary Idea Category, taking the trophy and EC$2,000, four smart phones and four cases of Vita Malt. Their idea, according to Collins, was to turn an islet off the coast of Chateaubelair into an eco-friendly resort. “It (the islet) is just sitting there, so it’s a good idea for it to be developed and a good way to create employment in the area,” Collins said, adding that he has a particular interest in tourism. The team ‘Fearless Leaders’ of the Central Leeward Secondary School placed second, and the ‘UISS GEO’ representing the Union Island

Secondary School finished third in this category. Mentor for the PBSS team, Stanley Joslyn said that he was pleased with the achievement by Collins and Craigg, pointing out that they worked very hard on their project. “They worked hard to come first, and I am happy with the success,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. Joslyn, who is also the school’s IT teacher, said that he was particularly pleased that his students proved that they were just as good as anyone else, and had the ability to compete against the best schools and students. “I am happy for that, and I hope that it will serve as an incentive for the other students to get the drive for them to want to succeed,” he said. And in the final category, the Open Category — ‘LX2,’ the team of Terbry and Jana Lewis walked away with the EC$5,000 grand prize, four tablets, six power banks and Vita Malt with their Car Pool App.

NLA announces new initiatives ANOTHER opportunity to win with Play4, more ways to receive lottery draw results, and the reintroduction of payment to the agent selling the winning ticket for a jackpot draw. Just some of the initiatives announced by the National Lotteries Authority (NLA). Product Development Officer, Anthony Dennie said on Tuesday during a press briefing that beginning on November 15, a second ‘Play4’ draw would take place. The 1:50pm draw will now give players of the ‘Play4’, which was

introduced back in 2014, a second opportunity in the day to win cash, and will immediately follow the ‘3D’ draw, which also takes place twice per day. “We are a company that listens to our customers, our players, and certainly we have had that appeal for a second draw, and we are thereby consenting to the request by our players and customers. Going forward, there is going to be a midday Play4 draw,” Dennie said. In relation to getting the results, the product development officer said

that there were already two mediums available to the public to obtain results of past draws — Facebook and a mobile app. But persons now have a third option — that of sending a WhatsApp message to 49LOTTO (495-6886) — and they will begin to receive results on a daily basis. In the event that the individual wants to discontinue the messages, simply send another message to the said number, with a request to discontinue the messages. “This is another way

Terbry Lewis explained that their presentation was about creating a car pool app designed for Vincentians. “We did not want it to look like Uber, but it essentially is a taxi service,” he explained. It worked like this, car owners, travelling certain routes can give rides to other commuters while receiving a little compensation. The hard work and sleepless hours were now over, and the team say that the response from the public to their app has been encouraging. In fact, so encouraging that they are considering to build up on what has already been created. “I think it will be something that could impact Vincentians, including businesses in getting their employees to work on time,” he said. Other prizes went to the Girls’ High School, for having the most entries, three in the finals of the Secondary Mobile App category and two in the Secondary Idea category. (DD)

for us to get the results out to the paying public here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.” And agents will once again be rewarded in cash, should they sell the winning jackpot ticket. According to Dennie, there were some loyal agents, so a decision was taken to reintroduce the payment to that agent who would have sold the winning jackpot ticket. He said that a decision had not been made on the amount, but that if someone was to win Anthony Dennie, Product Development Officer, tonight’s jackpot, then the agent would receive a outlined some of the new initiatives from the National Lotteries Authority. percentage. (DD)

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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Make best use of the money

BAUSHUAN GER, Taiwan’s Ambassador here, is urging students to make best use of the money they have received. He was speaking at the presentation of scholarships to students within the Kingstown zone. Similar exercises are slated for other zones in an ongoing package. Ger noted an increase which saw the amount double to US$200,000. As a result, 793 students benefit from the awards compared to 415 in 2016. The first delivery caters for students at 38 institutions in the Kingstown sphere. Ger emphasised the importance of education, and described it as a “pillar of nation building.” The Taiwanese provide assistance for training in Taiwan as well. Ger referred to 143 such graduates since its

introduction in 2004. However, the assistance to primary and secondary school students was launched 1998. Education Minister St. Clair Prince echoed Ger’s sentiments about the use of the money. He was delighted with the assistance, and reminded recipients that “kindness must not be taken for granted.” The Education Minister encouraged parents to be “proactive” in their children’s education, and to be involved in every aspect. Prince cited Taiwan as an important partner in the education drive, and contended that “St. Vincent and the Grenadines is “better off because of Taiwan.” Two students: Rebecca Dublin and Latisha Warren showed gratitude for their support. Dublin,

from the Stubbs community is a fifth former at the St. Clair Dacon Secondary School. Warren is a second former at the Intermediate High School. From the Paul’s Avenue district, Warren has Spanish as her favourite subject. She was thankful for the assistance from the Taiwanese in the way that it is easing the burden on her parents. Chief Education Officer Beverley Neptune highlighted the value of the Taiwanese assistance to the development of the nation. She outlined that persons “will enjoy a good life” because of the generosity. The ceremony had some injection of culture, with an instrumental presentation from the Intermediate High School, a chorale script from the Kingstown

L-R: Minister of Housing, Montgomery Daniel; Baushuan Ger, Ambassador to Taiwan here; Minister of Education St. Clair ‘Jimmy ‘ Prince and Chief Education Officer Beverley Neptune with scholarship recipients. Preparatory School, and an Afro-centric rendition from Thomas Saunders

ensemble which featured a guitarist, bassist, drummer, keyboardists

and four female vocalists. (WKA)

“Little voices – big dreams” builds excellent singing at its home in the Redemption Sharpes Community Centre, an endeavor that IMAGINE doing chores and your son or caters to children between the ages of daughter diligently follows you around, five and fourteen years. According to lending tiny hands to the project. Ms. Little, the inspiration for ‘Little Imagine that not only are you being ably Voices — Big Dreams’ was personal. assisted, but your child is continuously She reminisced, “I wish when I was pumping out melodic strains of beautiful younger there were programmes like song, making your work light and your these. I’ve always wished that this heart glad. It was scenarios like these type of knowledge was available to me that young entrepreneur, Stacy Little at the earlier stages of my life. I imagined when she set about to create a believe I would have been further new enterprise she calls, “Little Voices – faster.” It was with the command of Big Dreams”. Psalm 33, verse 3: “Sing unto Him a This gospel singer/songwriter, new song; Play skillfully with a loud awarded ‘Best of SVG Gospel Artiste noise,” therefore, that she fashioned 2017’: launched a ten-week vocal the theme for her project — “Building a training programme on 4th November, Character of Excellent Singing”. by GLORIAH…

The thing is, Ms. Little had not only visualized the provision of an avenue for singing talent of openly vocal children, but her mind’s eye had also seen those not-so-free-spirited ones who held ardent desires to sing, to touch and learn about an instrument, and needed an outlet too. Her stated aims, therefore, are to enhance the overall development of the voice in terms of pitch, tone, projection and clarity. Students will be offered the opportunity to be an environment that will expose them to the different aspects of singing, basic music theory, harmony, and song writing. There would also be development in techniques through vocal exercises and teamwork. Ms. Little is adamant that

Stacy Little with students from one of her classes.

the programme’s basic target is to assist in helping each singer to find his/her voice; and aid in bravery and confidence, while building a character of excellent singing. In elaborating on what is in store for prospective little singers, Ms. Little told THE VINCENTIAN that, “The program syllabus is ram-packed with great activities that are not limited to vocal training only. It caters to all aspects of music. The students will get the opportunity to be exposed to varying instruments; demonstrations by top musicians; visits to top recording studios; and hands on training techniques. At the end of the program, a grand production, in which parents will witness their children’s improvement. Certificates will be handed out and prizes awarded.” Stacy Little promises to deliver on the goals which she has selected for this endeavor. She admits that it has always been her dream to develop such a program like this, as she has always wanted to teach what she had learned throughout her life of singing. THE Stacy makes preparation for her first VINCENTIAN gives kudos to another well-thought out initiative. class.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial Transition to leadership THE APPOINTMENT OF Camillo Gonsalves as Minister of Finance, considered in the realm of ‘small island politics’ as the ‘mother of all ministries’, is a precursor to him succeeding his father, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, as leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP). That, according to public opinion, is the writing on the wall. If that is accepted as a truism, then the questions are: Will the younger Gonsalves win the approval of his mass-based party at its annual convention, and so be confirmed as the one to lead the ULP into the next general elections? Or would the older Gonsalves remain as Captain of the Ship into the next general elections, and upon both (older and younger) winning their seats, vacate the leadership position in favour of the younger Gonsalves? One thing is certain in this whole scenario: Given his hold on his party, Dr. Gonsalves will remain unchallenged in whatever course of action he chooses. But what if the question of transition is thrown up wherein Dr. Gonsalves indicates that he will not lead the ULP into the next general elections? This, according to one school of thought, should be the simplest option - perhaps the most preferred. What follows next, as alluded to earlier, is a Party Convention tasked with the responsibility of electing a new leader. That done, the new leader takes to preparing the party for contest in the next general elections, while Dr. Gonsalves, who remains Prime Minister, has a less stressed opportunity to complete his full term, and ‘tie up ends as far as government business is concerned. But what if, hypothetically speaking, Dr. Gonsalves leads his Party into the general elections and his party loses? This effectively makes him the Leader of the Opposition. Such a loss would then be taken as a direct message from the people, that they no longer have any confidence in Dr. Gonsalves’ leadership. That accepted, the next obvious step would be for him to step down, allowing for a new Leader to be ‘elected’. But what happens next? Would Dr. Gonsalves give way to this newly elected leader as Leader of the Opposition? Continuing along the hypothetical path, what if the ULP wins the election with one leader — Dr. Gonsalves — who is given the mandate to lead the country by the people — then opts out of leadership? This forces the people to have to deal with a leadership for which they did not vote — to whom they did not give a mandate. Theoreticians will discredit this line of argument as hogwash since, according to them, the people don’t vote for a leader of the country, rather they vote for representatives, who, in turn, will decide on who makes up the leadership of the country. But stick a pin. While this may be true in theory, the stark reality in this country is that, since the advent of Adult Suffrage, people vote for Leader, then Party, then a representative. The real history shows that the parties led by Ebenezer Joshua, Milton Cato, and Sir James Mitchell, all owed their elevations to the Chambers of Legislature Authority, because of them — the leaders. See how we herald the leaders after each victory. See the gay abandonment that has characterized the night or morning after victory. And history also throws up supporting fact in this regard. See the demise of the Peoples Political Party after Joshua played games with the electorate. See the decline of the St. Vincent Labour Party after Milton Cato vacated leadership, upon his party’s humiliating loss at the polls in 1984. And see the most recent case of the withering of the New Democratic Party (NDP) following the retirement of Sir James Mitchell. In the past 38 years, we have seen only four Prime Ministers who were all Leaders of their respective parties. There have been, in effect, only four leadership changes - in three major political parties, i.e. Cato to Hudson Tannis for the SVLP; Mitchell to Arhnim Euace and Eustace to Dr. Friday for the NDP; and Sir Vincent Beache to Dr. Gonsalves for the ULP. On this history, can we safely say that we have fully explored the limited possibilities of succession of a PM in the Westminster system? The question of leadership — of transition of leadership in massbased parties, presupposes a democratic process as the means to the end. Sadly, it is a reality that the very democracy that we presuppose exists as a safeguard to our right to decision-making within a political party of which we might be members, can be manipulated.

A roll-call of 1975 teacher-heroes in honour of the ailing Yvonne Francis-Gibson ON NOVEMBER 14, 1975, a peaceful teachers’ demonstration was crushed by the St Vincent Labour Party through the instrumentality of the police which used teargas to effect their nefarious purpose. The “Rogues Gallery” of oppressors then read: Milton Cato, Premier; St Clair Dacon, Minister of Education; Arthur Williams, Attorney General; Grafton Isaacs, Minister of Home Affairs. It needs be recalled that it was “the strongest Government in the world,” and contained ET Joshua who agreed with the action aimed at bringing the teachers to heel. Nor must it be forgotten that eighty percent of the present profession were at the time either unborn or too young to grasp the meaning of the events. Today the figure is about 90%. The story bears repeating because of the significance of its message. Many people have had a fair idea as to what actually took place on Tear-gas Friday, but missed out both on the prelude and the aftermath. There was of course, the general anti-trade union, anti-democratic attitudes that suffused the social atmosphere, to the extent that the Teachers had had a dry —run when they took part in a sympathy march on behalf of the nurses involved in The “Cyrus affair.” For weeks on end, every Monday morning, forty-odd nurses were dragged before the courts for the hearing of matters which finally petered out. Significantly, the names heading the list of nurses-defendants were trade unionist Cyril Roberts and Burns Bonadie, the survivor! From the Teachers’ march in their own right, ten of the so-called ring- leaders were rounded up, arrested and clapped in the cells where they spent three horrible nights, emerging as “Prison Graduates.” They included Yvonne Gibson, Mike Browne, George Bailey, Simeon Greene, Ferdinand Toney, Cecil “Pa” Jack, Tim Ottley, Cottle and Samuel Gordon. On the day before the march, thirty-one teachers were arrested for unlawful assembly during a sit-in at the Ministry of Education. They were all bundled into police trucks and taken to the Barracks where they were processed through the cells until bail was reluctantly allowed several hours later. Perhaps we should identify a sampling of the “insurrectionists” to make a selfexplanatory point. Among the “Jail Birds” were Kathleen Johnson who is now a highly qualified nurse in the U.S.A. with a serious commitment to St Vincent; Robbie Fitzpatrick, who became president of W.I.N.F.A. and Chairman of the Labour Party; Cecil Blazer Williams, lawyer dramatist who is now Chairman of the P.S.C! Jeff James, sociologist and folk-lorist; Judith Hull-Ballah, Teacher-Specialist; Ann Daniel

Williams, top female Methodist Minister, later head of Caribbean circuit; Joye Browne, ex Head-mistress of the Girls’ High School; Douggie “Nose” Joseph, pannist and Journalist; Mike Questelles, Evadney Tyrell, Tydel John and Hugh Delpleche, all of whom are stalwart sons and daughters who split the scene after their public and official manhandling. The following score of teachers, in alphabetical order, were similarly dismissed during November-December 1975-Maxford Ashton, Norris Bellingy, William Benjamin, Giles Francois, Edwin Glasgow, Emily Haynes, ,Jeff James, Larson Jardine, Tydel John, Mc Clean Laborde, Sherman Mars, Timothy Ottley, Amelia Samuel, Ulric Samuel, Verrol Small, Bennie Thompson, Ferdinand Toney, Blazer Williams and Calder Williams. Subsequently, Calder Williams and young Junior Bacchus were hauled before the court and convicted for possession of prohibited literature, in separate incidents. Mike Browne was kicked from pillar to post before resigning in utter frustration from the Ministry of Education. The hit list also covered Union activists who were sent packing from the Teachers College, their training abruptly curtailed for political reasons. They included. Joan Hoyte, Elroy Arthur, Sylvia King, Lennox Hazell, Kenneth Williams, John Mc Clean, Bernard Dasilva, Dorothy Stapleton, Michael Douglas and Christopher Forbes. Then, there were the savage transfers. Katherine Johnson from Kingstown Prep to Calliaqua, Elsa Jones From Brighton to Sion Hill, Simeon Greene from New Grounds to South Rivers; Julian Jack of Credit Union fame, from Belmont to Bequia; Malcolm Garraway from Fitz-Hughes to Canouan; worst of all, kidney —patient Decent Henry from Byera to Sandy Bay despite reasonable protests on medical grounds. Several teachers left the State in disgust, among them Ron Ellis, Irvin Ollivierre, Emily Haynes, Malcolm Garraway, and Kathleen Johnson. I give privileged information as Lawyer for the teachers after thirty-two years. Anne Williams and Judith Hull had attended a Methodist conference in Barbados where they were advised to apply for a separate trial under Carl Collymore, a Methodist Elder also attending the conference. The ladies bluntly refused to be separated from their brothers and sisters. Continued on Page 22.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 9.

Letters

A tidbit on crime I BET THAT if you ask the average Vincy what he/she thinks is the biggest problem facing us, the answer would be CRIME. If that is accepted, then the least you would expect from the government is a clear policy and action to deal with the situation. And the thing is, we are a small country with just over 100, 000 people, so there should be no reason why we can’t deal with the issue. There is no reason why we shouldn’t have a national security crime plan to reduce the number of homicides here. And the Opposition should not be left out of contributing to this plan. Further, most of the violent crimes here involve the use of guns. So, it is clear that we have a gun problem and gives rise to the crime. If guns are a part of the problem, why can’t we have an Illegal Firearm Eradication Unit (IFEU) within the Police Force just like we have a Major Crimes Unit? We need to zero in on the guns. Charles

An illustrious icon of SVG culture has gone Editor’s Note: Harold Mc Intosh, a member of the iconic Mc Intosh family of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and uncle of Frankie Mc Intosh, was laid to rest in the USA, November 1, 2017. Here are two brief tributes to Harold who was, like the rest of his male siblings, an outstanding musician in his day. I attended the funeral of Harold Mc Intosh yesterday (Nov. 1) May he RIP. I can still hear in my head the Bolero tempoed SWEDISH RHAPSODY by Harold. I was about 14 or so, and would run away at night to hear Limelight Orchestra at the long barracks called TIMMIE SCHOOL. I had never heard FLAT 3rds, 7ths, SHARP 5ths, and it blew my mind. The only music I knew at that time was DIATONIC (like everyone else). THANK YOU, HAROLD

We will always cherish fond memories of Harold Mc Intosh’s contribution to the Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Blue Rhythm Orchestra in particular. I will forever hear that beautiful music reverberating in my head. It is as we get older that we become even more conscious of contributions to music and SVG by these committed and patriotic persons. It certainly was not the money that made them stay up at nights, and through the night, to entertain and satisfy their many patrons. It was the love of the art of music and the burning desire to make patrons happy. I am not sure that patrons of today’s musicians can develop such a deep-seated love as we did. May his soul rest in peace

Paddy Corea

John Horne

BBO leads Colonisation and God’s plan for beach clean-up building his kingdom - Part 17

THE BECKET BENEFIT ORGANIZATION (BBO) will spearhead a clean-up of the Layou Beach, this Saturday 18th November, 2017, starting at 6 am. An invitation is extended to other organizations and members of the community, to partner with us, by volunteering for this project. Those willing to join the clean-up are asked to contact Vernon Mc Dowall, president of the BBO, or any other member of the organization, to sign up for this most worthwhile venture, or just show up on Saturday morning! Vernon Mc Dowall President BBO

YESHUA (Jesus) began showing His disciples how the Kingdom of Heaven worked. He told them that the Kingdom was not just a matter of talk, but that it had power (1Cor 4:20), and that all power was given unto Him (Matt 28:18). ‘Don’t be too concerned about food, drink, and clothing,’ He advised them (Matt 6:31), ‘that’s what

the Gentiles do. You seek first (as a matter of priority), the Kingdom and its righteousness, and everything will be supplied to you.’ (Matt 6:33). As they walked, He would talk to them about his death. ‘I did not come to serve,’ He told them, ‘but to give My life as a ransom for many (Mk 10:45), for many are called (Gentiles), but few are chosen (Israel).’ He spoke to them about being supportive, and loving to each other. ‘For this,’ He told them, ‘was how the Kingdom worked. in this way everyone would know that you are indeed my disciples.’ (Jn 13:35). ‘Do not let anyone judge you,’ He would say to them, ‘in meat, in drink, or in respect to an holyday, or Sabbath days, for they are but a shadow of that which is to come, but I am the substance.’ (Col 2:16,17). ‘I am just with you for a little while, then I must return to My father. You will seek Me, but you will not find Me, for where I go, you cannot come.’ (Jn 7:33,35). ‘Remember,’ He told them, ‘you are the salt of the earth, and if the salt has lost its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? (Matt 5:13) And

you are the light of the world, a town built on a hill cannot be hidden.’ (Matt 5:14). As they travelled, Yeshua stopped at intervals to minister to people. He laid hands on the sick and healed them all (Lk 4:40,41). Demons also came screaming out of many, crying out that He was the anointed one, to which He commanded them to be silent. For with authority and power He commanded unclean spirits, and they came out. (Matt 4:36). Some folks begged Him to remain longer in their villages and towns, but He excused himself by saying, “I must, preach the Kingdom of God to other cities also, because that is why I was sent.’ (Lk 4:43). He also began to give hints concerning his death, as he began his journey to Jerusalem. ‘The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priest, and teachers of the law, and they will condemn Me to death.’ (Matt 20:18). The disciples grew somber, but Yeshua continued to teach, and preach about the Kingdom of God, and heal, and drive demons out of the possessed. Negus

* Is it true that a number of criminals, members of those ‘associational groupings’, are now acquiring bullet proof vests? * Is it true that a big security man at the AIA is formulating plans to establish a handling company at the AIA? Isn’t this conflict of interest? * If what is said is true, that a big man passed money through an offshore company here, isn’t it true that somebody — bank and/or individual here must have known about it? * Anybody know if it’s true that the Russians also used our offshore set-up to passage some money to unexplained destinations? * Have the authorities here waived that outstanding tax bill owed by David Ames? *What is the Traffic Department doing about van drivers who on mornings, break traffic by reversing from Wilson Hill back down to the Convent corner?

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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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The Occupational Safety What is the real contribution of Ralph Gonsalves to SVG? and Health Bill 2017

Introduction THE INTRODUCTION of the Occupational Safety and Health Bill 2017 by the ULP administration is another indication of the care and love demonstrated for the workers of this country. Indeed, the ULP has done more than any other political party in the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to advance the causes of the workers of this country. No other administration has done more from the review of the Protection of Employment Act in 2003 the various adjustments to salaries and other benefits to the Occupational Safety and Health Bill. For all intents and purposes, the Factories Act, chapter 467, has become archaic, given the changes to the global work environment, forms of work, and working relations. The workplace has become so dynamic in many ways, which is why it is important that the state enact laws which would lead to the protection of all workers. There are some employers who are already in the forefront in relation to ensuring that their workers are protected, and that there is an environment conducive to them performing their duties. But some employers have fallen down on the job, and working conditions have become less that ideal; and so this Bill is critical to addressing this situation. Trade unions too, will welcome this Bill, since it will address a number of areas that they are concerned about.

becomes fully operational, so there will be a phased introduction of the Bill. Over the next three of four months, the ULP government will focus on the administrative framework of the Bill. So for example, there will be the setting up of the advisory council, which will be responsible for advising the Government of aspects of safety at the workplace. It is important to note that the Bill mandates the advisory council, to file an annual report with the Minister of Labour in relation to its work. This report must be submitted to the Minister not later than June 1st, for the previous year, and further, that this report must be laid in the House of Assembly. It is also important to note that the Employers Federation, the National Labour Congress and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, will have representation on the advisory council. One of the important positions which must be filled is the appointment of a Chief Inspector, whose principal duties will be to administer and enforce the provisions of the Occupation and Safety Bill 2017. There will be other inspectors who will report to the Chief Inspector. Under the Act, the Chief Inspector What is occupational safety and and his staff will have wide-ranging health Occupational safety and health is a powers, all of which are related to workplace safety. For example, the multi-disciplinary concept which refers to the welfare of people at work. Chief Inspector can enter any enterprise to determine if that It is generally accepted that employers have a duty to foster a safe establishment is complying with the regulations of the 2017 Bill. and healthy environment for their It is important that Vincentians, employees, and in some cases this is including employers and employees, extended to include their customers. The guiding word in the entire process get hold of a copy of the Occupational and Safety Bill 2017. Trade unions is “reasonable”. In some cases, will also be busy explaining the workers and their trade unions can regulations of this new Bill, and to demand conditions which are not required for the proper functioning of determine if the working conditions of the workers they represent, are in their jobs. This can cause the keeping with the provisions of the employers to spend unnecessary new Bill. finance, which in turn can affect the There are two provisions of the Bill bottom line of the business or we wish to highlight. Section 24 (1) enterprise. states among other things, that it is A number of international the duty of the employee to take organisations, including the World reasonable care for the safety and Health Organisation, and the health of himself while at work, and International Labour Organisation, for those persons who may be affected have made huge strides in this area, by his acts, or his omissions at work. and have produced documentation to So that the employee has a critical help employers and employees alike, role to play in relation to safety at the identify the hazards to the work place. development of good working Section 19 (1) states that it is the environments. In fact, the ILO duty of every employer to ensure, so celebrates April 28th every year, as far as is reasonably practicable, the the “World Day for Safety and safety, health and welfare at work, of Health”, in an effort to raise all his employees. This is a clear awareness about safety in the workplace. Many countries, including indication that both employers and employees have a responsibility under those in the Caribbean, have spent time and money ensuring that there is the Act, for safety and health at the workplace. a greater level of awareness and conformity to the issue to safety in the Conclusion workplace. St. Vincent and the According to Camillo Gonsalves, Grenadines must not be left behind, the former Minister of Labour who in this regard. moved the introduction of the Bill in The Occupational Safety and Health Parliament, there will be a phased approach to the full implementation of Bill 2017 these new regulations. But at the end Although the House of Assembly has given the new Bill its approval, it of the day, it’s all for the protection of the workers of St. Vincent and the will take some time before the Bill Grenadines.

OVER THE YEARS, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has declared the triumphs of his Unity Labour Party (ULP) government. If one is to take him at face value, one may naturally assume that St. Vincent and the Grenadines came into existence in 2001 with the ULP. Let’s look carefully at some of the facts. On February 21, 1994, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was first elected to the House of Assembly. In his first parliamentary debate which took place on December 15, 1994; it is worthwhile to reflect on some of his comments on the state of the economy. Dr. Gonsalves lamented on the slow growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and downplayed an EC$82.32 million income in tourism, a figure which had outstripped banana exports. His comments were that the figure was a misrepresentation of earnings from tourism, noting that sixty percent of tourism receipts found its way back overseas; the net receipts from tourism he argued were in the order of $30 million dollars. Having recognized this in 1994, one would naturally assume that measures would have been taken to address this anomaly. The reality is that today more tourism dollars is expended to feed the tourist than before. Moreover, this Prime Minister then referred to the unemployment situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as being the “most serious economic and social problem”. In the year 2017, with more than sixteen years in office, the unemployment problem in St Vincent and the Grenadines has gotten worse. There are trained nurses and teachers who are employed in Syrian stores, as they are unable to gain employment in their respective areas of training. In addition, graduates from the University of the West Indies and other tertiary level institutions return home and have remained unemployed for years. The rate of unemployment in St Vincent and the Grenadines is now approximately 40%. The unemployment situation remains a critical issue which the government has allowed to worsen; there are no initiatives and policies to assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in gaining access to capital financing. It is indeed amazing that Dr. Gonsalves, in his response to the 1999 budget, referred to the “enthronement of foreigners in the political economy particularly disreputable ones and concomitantly very little assistance or incentives to domestic or national entrepreneur especially small to medium sized ones”. He identified the neglect of the local small business, but failed to address this problem after some 16 years in office. The Prime Minister ought to remember that one of the basic but fundamental economic philosophies of the great St. Lucian Nobel laureate, Sir Arthur Lewis, is that there must be some engine to propel economic growth. This was emphasized by economist Clarence Henry who recently referred to the importance of the development of the private sector. Mr. Henry noted that private sector-led growth is important and could very well lead to economic growth thus reducing unemployment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the rest of the region. In 1998, Dr. Gonsalves, who was then the opposition spokesperson on finance and recently elected as the leader of the Unity Labour Party, again had some interesting comments. In that budgetary address, Dr. Gonsalves

seriously criticised the level of the national debt. He emphasized the total debt as a proportion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). One would have thought that if the Prime Minister was so concerned then, he would have prevented such a drastic increase in the rising levels of the national debt over the years of his stewardship. The national debt has increased significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) since 2001. For instance, at the end of 2013, the public debt stood at $1.4 billion dollars, an increase of 6.8 percent compared to the previous year of $1.3 billion dollars. It is estimated that the Central Government debt stood at $1.2 billion dollars, an increase of 6.7 percent from $1.1 billion in 2012. Over the years, the public debt has increased. The IMF 2016 Article Consultation Staff Report, had predicted that interest payments were projected to increase over the years. In fact, debt services obligations were projected to increase to 7 ½ percent of Gross Domestic Product in 2016, from 6 ½ percent in Gross Domestic Product of 2013. In fact, during the Unity Labour Party’s administration, there has been a significant geometric increase in the size of this country’s national debt as compared to the arithmetic increase in revenue. Moreover, much more of the government‘s revenue earned over the ULP’s administration is being allocated to debt servicing. The national debt now stands at approximately 1.6 billion dollars, the highest in the history of this country. Dr. Gonsalves had further lamented serious concerns with regard to law and order. Today, in this country lawlessness pervades! In referring to serious problems in his constituency, Dr. Gonsalves spoke of the stealing of people’s animals and produce. He said “They came to me and said, Comrade, you have to help us to do something about the thieving’”. We the people are now begging you as Prime Minister to help us, as praedial larceny is now at its highest level in the history of this country! What is Ralph Gonsalves doing about it now? In 1994, Dr. Gonsalves tabled a motion in the House of Assembly calling for “the establishment of a broad-band and competent commission of inquiry to inquire into the incidence of crime, the causes of crimes, the policing of crime, the treatment and sentencing of criminal offenders, the incarceration and rehabilitation of criminal offenders, and to make appropriate recommendations for action”. Today, crime has increased throughout the communities of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There have been 38 murders to date, and of all crimes committed in the Caribbean in the yachting industry, we account for 33%. The moral decay is evident, and some people are simply afraid to travel at nights or to remain at home alone. It is obvious why some commentators have made the analysis that the Ralph Gonsalves-led ULP regime is merely about the rhetoric and lacked substance. Once again, the evidence is overwhelming.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 11.

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Harnessing Potential

“Sometimes it is the person who no one imagines anything of that does the things that no one imagines.” Alan Mathison Turing (1912-1954) - English computer scientist, mathematician, logician, cryptanalyst, philosopher, and theoretical biologist. INTELLIGENCE AND CREATIVITY are not the prerogative of individuals who are educated or hail from a particular class or nation. Neither is it confined to those of a particular skin pigmentation or hair texture. We are all born with the capacity to do exceptional feats. This is equally true in relation to those born with a physical dysfunction or missing body parts. It is truly amazing how individuals who may be classified as “disabled” (who are more accurately considered to be “differently abled”) can ignite creativity in a variety of professions. Such individuals, if given a chance, can perform exceptional tasks when encouraged and inspired to use their talents and abilities. They remind us that sometimes it is the person who no one imagines anything of that does the things that no one imagines. When encouraged, they harness their potential and make significant contributions to science, the arts, and whichever field or profession that they gravitate towards. Hellen Keller (1880-1968) harnessed and perfected her potential even though she was challenged by what we may describe as major disabilities. Although deaf and blind, she baffled many with her ability to grasp concepts that hearing and seeing students may have struggled with. She pursued primary and secondary education and eventually graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She is recognised as an outstanding American author, political activist, and lecturer. Hellen championed the cause for women’s suffrage and workers’ rights. She called for equitable treatment of all peoples regardless of their circumstances. Her advocacy was not limited to the United States of America. Keller also travelled to more than thirty-five countries advocating for equality among people. This is a most commendable achievement. Her outstanding accomplishments remind us that disability is not inability, and that, although challenged, we all have that capacity to overcome such setbacks and harness our potential. Frida Kahlo de Rivera (1907-1954) was an accomplished Mexican painter who used her paintings to challenge viewers to examine many of the ills in Mexican society. Her paintings beckoned observers to explore the questions of class, race, gender, and identity in post-colonial Mexico. Frida contracted polio when she was six years old. The disease resulted in her right leg being significantly thinner than her left. This shrivelled limb affected her gait and appeared to offset her balance as she walked. It is also speculated that she suffered from spina bifida, a congenital disease that could have affected her spinal development. However, in spite of these physical setbacks, she harnessed her artistic potential and became internationally acclaimed. Her paintings and her life story remind us that, with persistence and a resolve to achieve our goals, we can make the impossible possible as we harness our potential. Stevland Hardaway Morris (born 1950), known by his stage name Stevie Wonder, is an American musician,

singer, songwriter, record producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Stevie was born blind but did not let this disability retard his desire to become an outstanding musician and singer. As a young boy he played the harmonica, drums, and the piano. He made his recording debut at the tender age of 11 and is considered one of the most beloved singers in the world. This superstar has recorded more than thirty top ten hits. These have included “I Just Called to Say I Love You”, “My Cherie Amour”, “You Are the Sunshine of My Life”, and “PartTime Lover”. Physical blindness did not prevent him from seeing and achieving his full potential. He believed in himself and in his ability to accomplish great things. He inspires us to pursue our noble dreams regardless of the “bad hands” that we may think life has dealt us. Stephen William Hawking (born 1942) is an English cosmologist, theoretical physicist, and author. He is the Director of Research at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology within the University of Cambridge. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a lifetime member of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. His life story continues to inspire many. Stephen lost the normal use of his body in his early twenties. It was then that he was diagnosed as having a motor neuron disease that gradually resulted in him losing control of his arms, legs, and voice. He eventually became totally paralyzed. Despite these setbacks, he has written numerous books, and continues to inspire many through his public appearances. He is considered to be an academic celebrity. He is placed on a pinnacle of outstanding achievement for an individual who faces tremendous obstacles but, with great determination, has harnessed his potential. The foregoing examples (Hellen, Frida, Stevie, and Hawking) remind us that, even though we may perceive that we have limitations that hold us back from pursuing our noble dreams, once the desire to succeed is ignited and fuelled, we can be considered unstoppable. Additionally, we realise that our “limiting circumstances” are nothing compared to what these outstanding individuals would have faced. If they can do it, so can we. Many of this column’s readers may know individuals who may have concluded that their “disabilities” prevent them from pursuing a particular profession or developing a desirable skill. These “differentlyabled” individuals can use these examples to ignite or re-spark their noble ambitions. They need to know that, once they have the required desire, they can make the perceived impossible possible. They can harness their potential and use these to accomplish so much good. It begins with a strong enough desire to pursue the noble dream with passion as they, and we, concentrate on harnessing potential. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

The role of a leader is to lead ONE DOES NOT have to be very astute to conclude that courageous leaders are in high demand and short supply these days. With most economies in a permanent state of stagnation, and many of the main indicators of societal health pointing downwards, those who are employed fear losing their jobs, and the young preparing to enter the job market remain alarmed by their dismal life chances. Untold levels of anxiety are experienced and expressed by young and old alike. Teachers complain of workplace stress, while the Public Service Union sued, claiming discriminatory promotion practices by the authorities. By and large, though, workers and citizens alike tend to keep their heads down and their mouths shut in order to survive. This not only applies to the rank and file, but to some levels of management. These are the times that call for bold, confident, courageous leadership. History shows those with the guts to step forward, take some risks and lead change during downturns, will be the winners. At a minimum, society will remember if not reward their courage. But it's not easy. Demonstrating leadership courage, whether it's having an uncomfortable conversation, communicating when you don't have all the answers, or making a decision to move ahead on a new project, can be scary. Yet, it's precisely the kind of behavior that sets a crucial example for others to follow, especially when people rather hunker down and wait for the storm to pass. If political leaders and captains of commerce want to see more courageous action by employees and citizens, experts in the field of leadership and management suggest that success demands the adoption of some vital traits of courageous leaders. Among them are: 1. Willingness to seek feedback and listen: It remains the case that one of the most important soft attributes of a courageous leader is the willingness to expose his or her views to scrutiny and analysis, and to engage feedback. By behavior, the leader is saying that he or she is open to criticism and correction, and is willing to change his or her mind in the face of compelling wisdom articulated by others. 2. Say what needs to be said. It is helpful to recognise that leadership is not a position, it is a behaviour; thus the person exercising the courage to speak what needs to be spoken, is often not the chair or the head, but another from down below, who is undaunted by the prospect of being side-lined for having spoken.

office) may be better at some things than they are, or may know more about some things than they do. More importantly, they know that they can benefit from the ideas of others. It is a coward and insecure leader who is unable to praise members of his or her team or the contribution of his or her opponents. Remember that a good leader takes more than their fair share of the blame, and less than their fair share of the credit. 6. Hold people (and yourself) accountable: A leader must, if he or she is to have a meaningful impact, hold others accountable. But the moral authority to hold others accountable rests, not in the power of office, but the profile of personal accountability. A prime minister, minister or manager who is not personally accountable, does not have the moral authority to hold anyone accountable. 7. Communicate openly and frequently. Keep the lines of communication open, even when you don’t know all the answers. Courageous leaders refuse to hide behind jargon and wiggle-words — they use straight-talk and are not afraid to say “I don’t know.” They also share information instead of hoarding it. 8. Lead change. In fear-based or group think environments, it's all about protecting the status quo. Envision a better way, a better solution, a better product, and approach it with determination and an open mind, knowing that it will be messy, and that a mid-course correction may be necessary. Remember that you need to bring people along the change process for them to truly engage. 9. Make decisions and move forward. Especially in environments of fear and intense change, it feels unsafe to commit to a decision and move ahead. Avoid the crutch of ‘analysis paralysis,’ and make the decision. Forward movement is always better than being stuck in place. 10. Confront reality head-on. Ditch the rose-colored glasses and face the facts about the state of your organization and business. Only by knowing the true state can you lead your team to a better place. Be guided by science and research.

The leaders who fail to adopt these or similar leadership traits will, in their place, out of the need for survival, substitute the art of skilful deflection, public relations, form without substance, and the positioning of parrots to trade in tearing down others in a bid to rewrite history or form the 4. Take action on performance issues: make-belief that only those who believe what they believe have made a A large part of the problem with the contribution to progress. public service in SVG is that few face Regrets, reversals and defeats are consequences for underperformance, inevitable consequences of failure to and when it happens that an underperformer faces consequences, it is lead and adopt to new and even more complicated environment. more often than not, for reasons This column drew on the research of unrelated to performance, but the issue Susan Tardanico, CEO of the Authentic of underperformance serves as a convenient cover. By taking swift action Leadership Alliance and Executive in Residence at the Center for Creative to reassign or exit underperforming employees, you are helping yourself, the Leadership, and Canute Thompson, head of the Caribbean Centre for team and the organization. Educational Planning, and co-founder 5. Giving credit to others: Courageous for the Caribbean Leadership ReImagination Initiative, at The leaders know that they do not have all University of the West Indies, Mona. the answers. Therefore, they are not fazed by the idea that others (including Send comments, criticisms & their opponents or predecessors in suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com 3. Encourage push-back. Many leaders feel pressure to have all the answers. By encouraging constructive dissent and healthy debate, you reinforce the strength of the team, and demonstrate that in the tension of diverse opinions lies a better answer.

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Money laundering in St. Vincent and the Grenadines? IT WAS RECENTLY reported by abc news in the USA, that the three countries named in the indictment of former Donald Trump Campaign Chairman, Paul Manafort, are island nations with a legacy of relatively lax oversight of offshore entities and a known history of being a conduit for suspicious money. Special counsel Robert Mueller has accused Manafort and his business partner Rick Gates of using shell corporations located in the three countries – Cyprus, the Seychelles and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – as a way to hide assets and avoid paying taxes. Apparently these countries, “They don’t ask questions about what their banks know about their customers, which is a basic requirement to stop money laundering,” said Ted Truman, a fellow at the Peterson Institution for International Economics and an expert on money laundering. It is a shame our country has been linked with money laundering again, but on inspection of the Mustique Act No. 48 of 2002, one can see why suspicions have arisen. Parts of the Mustique Act No. 48 of 2002 are: Section 18 (D) Exchange control shall not apply to any monies remitted by the Company, its Subsidiaries or its

Licensees to or from any place outside Saint Vincent. Section 20 (A) Foreign currency accounts may be held in Saint Vincent by the Company, non-national companies and non-national Licensees in respect of(i) Foreign currency deposit from outside of Saint Vincent; and (ii) Transactions from outside of Saint Vincent and member territories of the East Caribbean Central Bank. Section 20 (B) Notwithstanding any exchange control regulation in force from time to time in Saint Vincent foreign currency accounts referred to in the above clause (A) will be fully transferable without the payment of any taxes and any transaction by the Company or a Licensee concerning real estate situated in Mustique or shares of the legal entity owning such real estate may be transacted in any country and/or currency chosen by the Company or Licensee as the case may be, provided that the Company acts as principal or agent for the said transaction. In such case the Company will notify the Government of each transaction. SVG Green Party Leader Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, who has an MSc in MacroEconomic Policy and Planning in

Developing Countries from the University of Bradford, England, believes that the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 makes it easy for people to move very large sums of money in and out of SVG cheaply and with minimal tax and other financial penalties. According to the International Compliance Association, ‘Tax evasion and other fiscal offences are treated as predicate money laundering crimes in most of the world’s most effectively regulated jurisdictions’. For the benefit of sustainable

development in our country, the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 must be abolished. Our country must give high priority to sustainable development and job creation. Money laundering should not be a mode for sustainable development SVG. White Migrants must pay tax or pack their bags and go back to where they come from. SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org https://twitter.com/svggreenparty https://www.facebook.com/SVG-GreenParty-154937087877631/

Police is for law and order POLICE OFFICERS are not civil servants and they ought to know that. Their duty is something of an on call affair, and those who do not wish to be exposed to unsocial hours of work and operation may opt for a transfer. The Police Force is not a force to deal with “social development.” That’s the position of

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, as outlined to the media last Monday. He explained that the Police Force is “part of the coercive apparatus,” and that they “possess the legitimate monopoly on coercion.” Gonsalves outlined the need for police to have “good relationships with people,” but he added

that they were not a group to “hold consultative discussions.” He repeated a suggestion that the security officers were not bound to recite any “beatitudes” when faced with situations, and that “flight is not your first option.” He implied that force should be applied “reasonably and proportionately.”

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Photo gallery featuring the past and present leaders of the school.

Sowing good seeds will be observed on September 16, 2018. Those remembered were Father Hugh Fraser MacDougal — founder of the school back in 1968; Sr Mary Paul — Sellier (1968 — 1970); Sr Gabrielle Mason (1970 — 1974); Sr Eugene Herrera and Sr Philomena Horan who both served as principal from 1974 to 1975; Sr Maureen Alexander (1978 — 1979); Sr Sylvia Toulon (1979 — 1980) ; Sr Patricia Ann Douglas (1980 — 2005) and the present administrator, Sr Jacinta Sr Jacinta Wallace, Wallace who was Administrator, St. appointed principal in Joseph’s Convent 2005. The photo gallery is Marriaqua being referred to as the ‘Mind shapers’ gallery, this according to Jennifer Richardson-Herbert, past student. The idea was to add more photographs of individuals at the school who would have contributed to the selfdevelopment of the students and the overall development of the institution. In keeping the focus on the role that the individuals honoured Jennifer Richardsonplayed in the development Herbert of those who attended the school, Sr Jacinta explained that the school had as part of its responsibility as a Catholic school offering Catholic education, to ensure that needs of the entire person is taken care of. The focus, she explained, was not solely on good grades and results, but ensuring that when persons pass through the walls of the institution, they become adults that can make a Suzette Jackson difference in society, with certain standards and values. THE WORK OF THE “So I would like us to be FOUNDER and subsequent principals of the Marriaqua judged on that, how faithful we are and if we Secondary School/St are achieving the goals Joseph’s Convent that we set out to do,” said Marriaqua, was the focus last Saturday, November 11. Sr Jacinta. The name of the school The ceremony, which was changed from the included the unveiling of the school’s photo gallery, Marriaqua Secondary School to the St Joseph’s was part of the activities Convent Marriaqua; leading up to the school’s however, the focus 50th anniversary which

remained the same. She said that the school’s founder, Fr MacDougal and the seven principals that took duty thereafter, all embodied the motto. “Thus the foundation and life of our school underscore that love is not about selfaggrandizement, not about what is in it for me, but about service, about selfsacrifice or being other centred,” she emphasized. The ceremony’s featured speaker, Suzette Jackson, attested to this. Her story began as a little girl from Park Hill who journeyed with some other students to write the school’s entrance examination. She was successful in gaining entry into the school back in 1983, but her parents — both farmers — while they were satisfied that they would have been able to afford to pay the $50 school fee as it was then, meeting her other school related costs, especially transportation, was a problem. “And so we were going to pay transportation by ear, that was that I would come when I can.” Getting to school was no easy feat in itself either. She said that her journey started around 6, with her walking from Park Hill to Colonarie, then stopping off at Peruvian Vale and walking through Yambou over to Cane End. As a result, she said she reached to school late and would receive bad marks for punctuality. Her tardiness was cause for concern by then principal Sr Patricia Ann Douglas, or Sr Pat, who arranged for a regular ride to and from school. But when the vehicle being used started having mechanical problems, she was again summoned to the office of Sr Pat who had informed her that she (Sr Pat) was in discussion with one of her members of staff to arrange for Jackson to be placed in a home nearby. She was placed in the Richardson home, and

remained there until she completed her secondary school education. Jackson, who is now a Registered Nurse, admitted that she was not pleased with her O’level results, but as a result of the values she learned from being a student at MSS/SJCM, she went on to become a professional in the nation’s health sector. Sr Jacinta Wallace, principal, and Suzette Jackson, Her achievements past student both spoke of the role that the Catholic include assisting in institution and its former leaders have played in the research for the Senior lives of those who attended. Nursing Officer in St Lucia and an “The seeds sewn opportunities for me,” she appointment as a clinical created lifelong concluded. (DD) instructor.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 15.

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SMSS donates to Hurricane relief THE PRINCIPAL, staff and the act of sending relief students of the St Martin’s support to sister island Secondary School joined in Dominica which was devastated during the Principal, staff and some passage of Hurricane Maria this year. students of the SMSS On Monday, a cheque pose with Bishop Gerard in the amount of County and some of the EC$3,000 and quantity of school approximately EC$2,000 supplies donated by worth of school supplies students. were officially handed over to Bishop Gerard County, head of the Diocese of Kingstown, which in turn will be sent to the St Martin’s School located in Roseau, Dominica. Karen Burgin, teacher at the SMSS, explained that November 3 is usually set aside for the students to engage in community service. She further explained that November 3 is the date set aside in honour of the patron saint of the school, St Martin de Porres who lived his life in the service of others. Activities usually include visits to surrounding schools, feeding the homeless; but this year, a decision had been made to raise funds to assist those in need in Dominica. “We are all one global community, and Dominica is part of the Windward Islands, so we specifically decided to target the St Martin’s

School in Dominica,” Burgin said. She also noted that the students were asked to donate items to the appeal for school supplies and stationery which will be donated. “We in St Vincent, we know what it is to be affected by natural disaster, and two, three days after the disaster has happened, there is no more attention being paid to the territory,” she said. In responding, Bishop County thanked all involved for the gesture, saying that he was pleased with the idea of the SMSS looking to adopt and assist one of the schools affected by the passage of Hurricane Maria. He too agreed that soon after an event where a territory is destroyed following a natural disaster, very little is heard in the media, and that the members of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) of which St Vincent and the Grenadines was a part, they too were looking for ways to assist fellow Bishop Gabriel Malzaire and the people of Dominica. “[I] appreciate the gesture, it speaks very highly of you,” Bishop County said. (DD)

NLA announces

‘Ham and Rum’ promo THE NATIONAL LOTTERIES Authority’s Christmas promotion was officially launched on Tuesday. The promotion, dubbed ‘Ham and Rum,’ gives players the opportunity to win as is mentioned — ham and bottles of liquor. Anthony Dennie, Product Development Officer, said at a press briefing to launch the promotion, that players purchasing a minimum of $10 worth of ‘Play4’ on a single ticket, will receive a coupon — lucky customers will either receive a ham, or bottle of liquor, compliments the NLA. Dennie urged customers to ensure that they collect the coupon from agents, or the cashiers at the NLA office in Kingstown. According to Dennie, the coupon will be printed after the ticket, so customers should ensure that they collect their coupon, once they make the purchase, making them eligible for entry into the promotion. He further explained that prizes will be randomly distributed, so customers need to look at the coupon produced to see if they have won themselves a ham or a bottle of rum — unlucky persons will receive a coupon saying ‘Merry Christmas’. The promotion ends December 31. (DD)

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16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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Taiwan Medical Team coming! THE TAIWAN Changhua Christian Hospital (CCH) is sending its second medical team of 2017 to visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines from November 19 to December 9, 2017. It is the twelfth visit of the CCH medical team to SVG since 2010. The team is comprised of seven members - Dr. Nina Kao (leader), Dr. Cheng Hsu Chen (Emergency Medicine), Dr. Wei-Jung Chang (General Surgery), Dr. YunLiang Chen (Chinese Medicine), Dr. Hui-Ming Yen (Anesthesiologist), Sr. Yun-Ju Lin (ICU nurse) and Sr. Sheng-Tsu Su (OR nurse). During its visit, the team will work closely with the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. In response to the request of local communities across the country, and with the facilitation of the MCMH, Dr. Yun-Liang Chen will outreach to Georgetown, Stubbs and Barrouallie, to provide Chinese medical services to Vincentians. In the meantime, considering the

FSA Celebrates 5th Anniversary The Financial Services Authority (‘FSA’) was established on November 12th, 2012 and recently celebrated its 5th anniversary. The FSA is marking this occasion with a number of events, including an Open House to the public on November 17th, 2017, at its offices on the 2nd Floor of the Reigate Building, Kingstown, to raise awareness of its work and activities.

Taiwan Medical Team. current close cooperation between MCMH and CCH on anesthesiological services which has benefited more than 200 Vincentian patients in the past two months, the CCH specifically dispatched Dr. Hui-Ming Yen, an anesthesiologist, to be one of the team members to provide anesthesiological services at the MCMH. MCMH and CCH were twined in August of 2010. Since then, the two hospitals have strengthened their cooperation and interaction continuously. In May of 2017, one doctor and two pharmacists of MCMH from Kingstown visited CCH to participate in training programs.

The FSA is an autonomous statutory body established pursuant to the Financial Services Authority Act, No. 33 of 2011 (‘the FSA Act’), for the purpose of regulating the international (offshore) financial and non-bank financial sectors, the latter comprising Credit Unions, Insurances and Pensions, Building Societies, Friendly Societies and Money Remitters. The FSA’s role, functions and powers are outlined in the FSA Act, and its regulatory objectives are enshrined in the FSA’s core guiding principles, also outlined therein. These include, in sum, the protection and fair treatment of consumers, the enhancement of market integrity and financial stability, and the promotion of fair competition. The establishment of the FSA in 2012 was a regulatory development of historic significance to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as such an amalgam of different regulatory entities into a single regulatory body was unprecedented. Such constitution has yielded substantial benefits by consolidating resources and optimizing efficiencies. Over the past years, the FSA forged full speed ahead to evolve into a professional and specialized organization, engaged in the responsible execution of its legal mandate. It has utilized its wide ranging regulatory powers to undertake various regulatory and empowerment actions to foster compliance with governing legislation and to promote stability in the operations of financial entities. A main rationale for the establishment of the FSA was the need to have in place a more cohesive regulatory regime for the various non- bank financial institutions. The international financial services were at that point already being supervised by a statutory body, the International Financial Services (IFSA), which had worked diligently with stakeholders to ensure appropriate legislative and administrative systems were in place to govern and properly regulate the offshore industry. It is no small accomplishment then that in 2016, just four years after the establishment of the FSA, that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has described St. Vincent and the Grenadines as “the regional leader in non-bank supervision” (St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2016 Article IV Consultation - Press Release/ Staff Report July 2016, page 15). It is also significant that in their equivalent 2015 Report, the IMF had observed that this country was “leading the region in credit union supervision,” an observation which was also repeated in the aforementioned 2016 Report. This FSA is both gratified and humbled by this accolade, as it traces and recognizes the progress of the FSA in the execution of its mandate to date in an independent way. That there is still much more work to be done by the FSA to accomplish its goals is undisputed, and the FSA intends to continue to strategize and optimize on its resources, to deliver on its extensive mandate in absolute good faith. Indeed, as the FSA celebrates its 5th anniversary, it is especially mindful of the journey ahead as a still growing institution and will be working steadfastly with the industry and stakeholders, to ensure that mutual objectives of financial soundness, accountability, stability, sustainability and above all, the protection and preservation of fair treatment to consumers, are met. The FSA has worked tirelessly over the past 5 years to address the various challenges and problematic issues which have been identified, and our engagement with the industry and all relevant entities, including stakeholders, strategic partners, the industry, customers of financial entities and members of the public, will continue. The FSA urges that each member of the regulated sector ensures that it is well positioned to easily demonstrate its accountability as well as its integrity, to its consumers, stakeholders (particularly its regulator) and the public at large. Being able to demonstrate sound governance structure and systems, compliance with governing legislation, prudential requirements and best practices and thus transparency and accountability as an institution, is no longer a choice on the part of the regulated sector. Voluntariness has long been superseded by the practical imperative need for regulatory compliance in today’s financial world. Any deviation therefrom has the potential for irrepressible adverse impact on the micro and macro- economic stability and the reputation of our country. The maelstrom of international challenges that never seems to abate also heightens the need for every member of the regulated sector to be able to demonstrate regulatory compliance, more so now than ever before. Against this backdrop, it bears underscoring that the FSA cannot fail to have a strong appreciation of its own role, responsibilities and accountability. Such awareness invariably tends to become even more intensified when adverse situations arise or desired results are not attained, even though it is commonly recognized that even the best of regulatory efforts cannot always prevent failed institutions or fraud. Thus, in awareness of the matrix of challenges which frequently arise, the FSA’s strategy and approach will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, in order to continuously improve our results. The FSA wishes to herewith record its deepest appreciation and thanks to the industry and stakeholders for its cooperation and support received throughout the past few years, without which, the FSA would not be able to effectively discharge its mandate. Submitted by: Financial Services Authority November 12th, 2017.

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Singing Sandra to headline Steel Expressions Rodney Small, Executive Producer and Artistic Director of Steel Expressions.

TRINIDADIAN CALYPSONIAN DesVignesMillington (born 1957), better known as Singing Sandra, best known for her hit songs "Voices from the Ghetto" and “Die with my diginity”, and winner of the Trinidad Calypso Monarch titles in 1999 and 2003, will headline the annual International Steel Expressions show, slated for December 30,. This was announced by Rodney Small, Executive Producer and Artistic Director of Steel Expressions, at the Steel Expressions media launch held at the Grenadine House on Monday13th. Also scheduled to perform, are 2017 Ragga Soca Monarch Hance John, Raeon “Maddzart” Primus, Penola Ross, Ipa Constance, Sarai Mc Intosh, Kathy Miller, Alron Harry and Geran Maule, with Vikingz being the backing band. Artistes representing different cultures will also join the cast. The annual event, which is in its fifth year, has now adopted the theme “International” embracing cultures from around the world. Small is encouraging patrons to represent different nationalities in their attire, as they will be taken “through an international ethnic journey of music, food and fashion.” Small, in his

presentation, said that when he held his first Steel Expressions show, it did not turn out well, and he felt like giving up, but former Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste encouraged him to push on, and he did so. Since then, things each year have seen a tremendous improvement. He added that this year, Steel Expressions will be partnering with the St. Vincent Medical Association to assist in the fight against childhood cancer. The pannist noted that, over the past five years, patrons have enjoyed quality entertainment from top class Vincentian acts, and this year will be no exception. Miss Baptiste stressed that the creative arts should be given the respect it deserves. She said that when she served as Minister of Culture, she insisted on every occasion, that the creative arts be part of the professional undertaking. “Yes, doctors and lawyers are tradition, accountants and engineers, careers in the public service, but creative art is a profession. “So please no one ask him (Rodney Small) to come to play and serve him some sandwiches,” said Baptiste. Minister of Foreign Affairs Louis Straker

President of the SVG Medical Association Dr. Rosalind Ambrose. stated that Small is a role model and an inspiration to many young persons in this field. He encouraged persons not to settle for mediocrity in their endeavors. He added that he would suggest to Cabinet that Small be made a Goodwill Ambassador, as his ability to play pan can position him to use his skills to help the country in the field of diplomacy. President of the SVG Medical Association Dr. Rosalind Ambrose expressed appreciation to Rodney and his team on this timely contribution, and noted that the Medical Association is the first organization locally to spread awareness of childhood

Vincentians in Toronto make Special offer THE EFFORTS of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Association of Toronto, Toronto SVG Support Group, Bequia Social Organisation, and the Union Island Social and Cultural Organisation made $2400 (Canadian) available to the School for Children with Special Needs. The money was raised from a Boat Cruise in the Toronto Harbour last August 11. President of the SVG Association Gideon Exeter along with Bernard John representing the SVG Toronto Support Group, turned up at the School for Children with Special Needs in Kingstown last Thursday for the presentation ceremony. Acting Principal Phedra Samuel expressed gratitude on her institution’s behalf for the timely intervention. The School has a population of 56, and Samuel acknowledged the extent to which the donation will assist in maintaining the

L-R: Nicole Exeter, Gideon Exeter, Phedra Samuel and Bernard John with students Teran Hull, Daural Payne and Phenon James. requirements. Exeter disclosed that the School for Children with Special Needs was selected for this year’s recipient owing to their contribution to the education demands. Three students: Teran Hull, Daural Payne and Phenon James were delighted in representing the institution at the occasion.

Former Minister of Culture and mentor of Small, Rene Baptiste stressed that the creative arts should be given the respect it deserves. cancers, in addition to their breast and prostate cancer awareness campaigns. Proceeds from the event will go towards childhood cancer,

through the St. Vincent Medical Association. Donations from previous shows were made to SCORCH and The School for Children with Special Needs. The event commences with a wine and dine segment at 6:30 pm on December 30, where a variety of dishes from various cultures will be on sale. Other new additions to the event include a Children’s zone where the children will be given added entertainment through collaborations with Playtime by Uncle Skinny, Tus-T Water and the No. 14 Rangers Company. Carlton Teddy James, representing Coreas said that from the inception of Steel Expressions, his company has always given their support, and this year they will also

be partnering with the organizers of the show. Gold Sponsor, Flow, was present, and donated a cheque of $10,000 to the event, $2000 of which will be given towards childhood cancer, through the St. Vincent Medical Association. Other endorsements came from Raeon “Madzart” Primus of Posse, ultra premium rum and the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC Radio).

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20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

The biggest fool never agreed to work for him for any monetary reward. He said my wife I HAVE BEEN accusing my agreed to be at his house wife of being a fool, but in everyday just to please the end I realized that it him sexually, since she was I who was the fool for was not getting what she thinking that she was a wanted at home. fool. Let me explain. She I was so stunned and got this job with this embarrassed that I left businessman in Town who promised to pay her $1300 that office in total shame. There was never any work dollars a month. He gave agreement. It was just her no paperwork to say my wife who used the where she worked and for how much she was working opportunity to leave the house every day just to for. The first month ended and she came home with no have sex with this man. The only revenge I money. She said she was could have taken on him told she would be paid a was sending a note a few few days into the next days later to tell him that month. I hope he enjoy the AIDS Now George, it has my wife would have given been six months, and yet him. Of course this was she has been going to not true, but it was the work and not returning only way I could hurt him with any money. Then and scare my wife at the she tells me that she same time. I noticed would be paid in a lump that of late she has been sum with interest etc. I got upset and ordered her refusing to have sex with me. I guessed he passed not to leave the house again until this man paid on the message. here for the time she was Our marriage is over and I am looking to move on working. with my life. I paid a visit to her employer to get the money Taken for a fool she was owed, and he informed me that my wife

Dear George,

None of your business Dear George,

MY HUSBAND and I live in a wooden house and my closest neighbour is just a few feet away. As a matter of fact, their bedroom is very close to my bedroom and it allows me to hear very clearly, any sound that is a little louder than normal volume. I have to ask you this question. Now George, happiness of others. Wish Dear Taken, almost every night, these two people are at it doing her well and concentrate their business and I cannot help but hear the on getting your life back Very sad commentary bedroom noises coming across to me. It seems as on track. indeed, but you handled though this man is one day going to kill this woman the situation well enough because the way he carries on with her is very George except for the note you cruel. I can hear him telling her things like “ Tek dat” etc. She sent to the man in would be screaming and saying question. It was not things to him and it is obvious necessary to do that. that she would be in real pain. I Clearly your wife has Dear George, am very concerned for her. He made a decision to find does not have to be that rough on her sexual satisfaction her at all. Why does he have to I HAVE BEEN married five years now and outside of the marriage, be dealing with her every night my wife is pregnant with our first child. and at the same time was so? Some men are too wicked While I should be happy for her and for us, I prepared to live a lie, and he is one of them. am not. The reason for this is, another I want to ask her if she is pretending that she was young lady recently told me that she is alright with what is happening to happy. Maybe you missed pregnant with my child as well. This young her at nights but I am afraid she certain warning signs lady is one of my wife’s cousins who would would tell me it is none of my earlier in the marriage sometimes come and do a little housework business. When I see her during that something was going for us. To compound the matter, she is 18 the day she seems very happy years old and was planning on going away to and I have never heard her wrong, but that does not study. I begged her to get an abortion but excuse her for doing what complain about her husband in she told me she is not doing any such thing. she did. You however any negative way, but I believe She is threatening to tell my wife because should get tested just to she is carrying around the secret she cannot live with the lie and deceiving of sexual abuse and is afraid to make sure that you are in her own cousin further. I know that if she talk about it. Do you think I the clear as far as STDs tells my wife, my marriage is gone! I cannot should ask her about it? My are concerned. As for husband insist that it is none of your wife, let us hope that understand why she cannot just have this one abortion and let everybody go away scot- my business but then again, he is this experience will send a man. free? Do you want to know what I think? I her a wake-up call not to think she wants me and my wife to split up indulge in deception and Wondering listener and she would just waltz in and take over. I lies at the expense of the believe that is her plan but she has another

Time to face the music

thing coming if that is her plan.

Dear Wondering listener,

Jeopardy This young lady has the right to her own choice. You want her to do your bidding just to save you from facing the music and from having to own up to your infidelity. It is selfish of you to try to force her into doing something that is against her will and scruples. You should have thought about your marriage before you unbuttoned your pants. Whatever happens in the end, you need to remember that as the father of these children, your responsibility would be the same which is to take care of them both to the best of your ability. It will be entirely up to your wife, after hearing about this to continue with the marriage. I strongly suggest that you man up and let the chips fall where they may. You too will experience less stress in the long run if that is done.

What goes on in the privacy of the bedroom is of no business to anyone on the outside. You can either plan to move away from where you are living or get some ear plugs so you would not get distracted by the ‘noise’ that is coming from next door. You are in no position to decide how often your neighbour ought to engage in sexual activities or make a judgement on his character. The bottom line is, your next door neighbour seems to be fully satisfied with her partner and their sex life. Maybe it is that satisfaction that is of a bother to you. You husband is correct, it is none of your business. Spend your nights concentrating on getting creative in your own bedroom and maybe that will be enough to let you not hear the sounds from next door.

George

George

Dear Jeopardy,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Family get‐togethers will be interesting. Your energetic personality will make you the cen‐ ter of attention at social gatherings. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together. Passion will be your only answer. TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. Express your interest if you want the relationship to progress. Get ready to do some fancy foot‐ work when it comes to taking care of your financial situation. You can enjoy doing things that include children. GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. You may want to put your creative thinking cap on. Relationships will be erratic this week. You will be enter‐ tained and intrigued by the logic foreigners possess.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Someone may be trying to pull the wool over your eyes. You may find that your boss is not delighted with your work lately. You can make major gains professionally by completing proj‐ ects on time. You are best not to confront sit‐ uations that deal with in‐laws or relatives. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Residential moves will be in your best interest. Use discretion in your dealings and refrain from making verbal promises of any kind. Do not get involved in joint financial ventures. Don't count on your friends to be loyal when it comes to doing things. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) You will back yourself into a corner if you are baited and your stubbornness will only make matters worse. Don't let domestic problems interfere with your objectives. Avoid scandals of any sort. You may make someone else look bad.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Do not sign your life away. Curb any jealous fits if your partner has been flirting with someone else. You will be ready to jump on anyone who gets in the way of your progress this week. Don't put all your cash in one place.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Try to iron out any friction over money with your mate or conflicts could prevail. If they're too demanding, reconsider this union. Your confidence will stabilize your position. Don't be too quick to react.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Expressing yourself in novel ways should lead you down new avenues. Make amends if you can. To avoid any minor health problems, don't get too stressed. You don't owe anyone an explanation. Do your own thing, you need time to yourself.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) You will attract new love interests. Avoid any erratic behavior or it could cause isolation at home. Get rich quick schemes will not be suc‐ cessful. You have more than enough on your plate already.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You can elaborate on your creative ideas and get involved in groups that relate to the arts. Organization will be the key to avoiding dis‐ cord and family feuds. Older relatives may be a burden. Your mate may be distressed if you refuse to make a commitment.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Some situations may be blown out of propor‐ tion. Frustrations and limitations could cause anxiety this week. Don't try to deal with important issues or make changes that will upset the apple cart. You'll look guilty if you don't lay your cards on the table.

ACROSS 4. Exclamation of surprise 8. Occult doctrine 11. Therefore 13. Fuss 14. Peculiar 15. Admirable 17. Long period of time 18. Skein 19. Packs tightly 21. Affirmative reply 22. Person who lies 24. Impair 27. Monetary unit of Iran 29. Fur scarf 31. Dip in liquid 33. Clock face 35. Foolish 36. In this way 38. Interlocation 40. Actor’s parts 42. Raised platform 43. South American Indian 45. Eccentric man 49. Goad for driving cattle 50. Period of human life 51. Railbird 52. Small blemish DOWN 1.Rarely encountered 2. Away from the mouth 3. Malt beverage 4. Annual horse race in England 5. So be it 6. A rich tapestry 7. Abounding in rocks 9. 6th month of the

Jewish calendar 10. Frozen water 11. Anesthetic 12. Alcoholic liquor 16. Islamic chieftain 20. Stated 21. Synthetic yitrium aluminum garnet 23. Sudden assault 25. Beancurd 26. Small salmon 28. Put down 29. Purse 30. Consumed

31. Smear 32. Hungarian sheepdog 34. Encampment 35. Prescribed amount 37. Monetary unit of Zaire

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 21.

39. Falsehood 41. Move off hastily 44. Axlike tool 46. Move quickly 47. Self‐esteem 48. Soak

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

In Memory

Dr Basilon ‘Bassy’ Cole – September 16- 1946 – November 10- 2017 DR. BASILON CLEVELAND COLE, FRCS(C), 71, New Glasgow, passed away suddenly, Friday, November 10, 2017, in the Halifax Infirmary, QEII, Halifax, surrounded by his loving wife and family. Born in Kingstown, St. Vincent and Grenadines on September 16, 1946, he was a son of Miriam (Thompson) and the late Carlton Cole. Basilon obtained a teaching degree at Dalhousie University and then returned to St. Vincent to teach at the Boys Grammar School, the secondary school that he attended as a child. In his youth, Dr. Cole was an avid football fan and a phenomenal player. He represented his school and the island of St. Vincent in football tournaments. He later obtained a scholarship to attend Dalhousie University where he led the football team as the first black captain. He decided to follow his dream of being a Physician and returned to Dalhousie University in 1972, where he received his Medical degree in 1979. He chose to come to the community of New Glasgow

where he dedicated his life and skills to helping people at the Aberdeen Hospital for 37 years. Later in life, he became a Free Mason, joining the Euclid Lodge #92, where he held a number of distinguished offices. He also belonged to the Philae Temple Shriners and served as a representative to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Montreal. He will be missed by his Worshipful Lodge Brothers. Dr. Cole and his wife Sandra have contributed to the community in many ways, especially the Aberdeen Hospital Foundation. Surviving are his wife of 32 years, Sandra Cole (Adams); sons, Sean (Jenene), Damon, Bryce; five grandchildren, Deshawn, Jayda, Dante, Sean Jr. and Davaughn; mother, Miriam Cole; brothers, Lennox, Terry, Carl Richards; sisters; Roxanne Cole-Laslee, Vanessa, Maxine, and many nieces and nephews. Besides his father Carlton, he was predeceased by his brother, Douglas. We have lost a wonderful husband, father, brother and gifted physician. Basilon will be

deeply missed by all those whose lives he affected throughout his life. The family received visitors 1:30 — 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 14, 2017, in the Pictou County Wellness Centre, Westville Road from where funeral service was held at 2:30 p.m., with Pastor Michael Gardner officiating. Donations may be made in his memory to the Aberdeen Hospital Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or Diabetes Canada. (Family Source)

A roll-call of 1975 teacher-heroes in honour of the ailing Yvonne Francis-Gibson against what their who stood up and fought forbears had to fight. In the good fight when it In the result, they 1975, the union was being mattered most. The were all convicted at first stripped clean of its official visit of the union instance, and won their power, rights and dignity. to pay their respects to freedom to march on The successors to Labour, the house- bound Yvonne appeal. 1975 was a the U.L.P., have sent their Francis-Gibson, is most veritable “Waterloo”. It is own messages seen in thoughtful, and a step in not expected that their erecting a monument the right direction. everyone will identify each to the memory of St Clair But Ralph, Blazer name, but each name will Dacon, the Minister who Williams and Mike perhaps be recognised by had presided over the Browne saw the someone; the whole point programme that sent attempted humiliation of is to mention the number Education in a tail-spin Yvonne by depriving her of people involved, the for decades. in her vintage years a type of person abused, as The nation as a whole simple J.P insignia as a a measure quantitative of should take time off to token of her good works. and qualitative the salute the crop of teachers The 2017 march is a damage brought to the of the 1970s, whatever powerful protest against educational system in their present persuasion — all such wrongs. 1975. 1975 is a bench-mark representing a serious attempt by the State apparatus to clamp down on dissent, especially coming from a professional class that THE PUBLIC IS HEREBY invited to an Open traditionally supported House at the office of the Financial Services the ruling Labour Party of Authority (FSA), to raise awareness of the FSA’s the day. It is a high-point role and responsibilities as the regulator of nonin our political evolution. banking financial institutions (Credit Unions, On the eve of Building & Loan, Friendly Societies, Insurance Independence, the S.V.U.T Companies and International Financial Services) in made a powerful Statement on behalf of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. future role of trade Date - Friday, November 17th,2017 unionism and the place of the teaching profession in Time — 10 am — 3 pm the coming dispensation. The Juvenile Otto Location —2nd Floor, Reigate Building (Bank of Sam’s generation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines), Kingstown. teachers needs to know Continued from Page 8.

FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY NOTICE

V New SVGTTA President promises image building

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 23.

NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA) - Orville Haslam, sees as priority, a rebuilding of the image of the organisation. Haslam was last week Wednesday elected unopposed at the association’s General Meeting held at the West St George Secondary School. “The image (of Table Tennis) has been damaged, and the reason for this is one of personality… As a head, I want to change it (the image) to a more efficient one”, Halsam projected. Such was the divide, that former President of the SVGTTA Tyrone Jack revealed that he was not willing to work along with Sean Stanley again on executive. The two served in their capacities from 2013, but reports are that there were several verbal clashes between them during their tenures. Citing a more professional approach to be employed, Haslam stated, “I want to introduce some who can work on the day to day affairs of the association from 9 to 5, because the association needs a CEO (Chief Executive Officer)… We need someone to come in, organise correspondences from overseas and so on, and we also will be encouraging persons with progressive ideas to assist in building the sport of Table Tennis”. He underscored that the association during his tenure will be run on a “democratic approach”. Haslam identified co-opting seasoned player — Joseph Carrington as the players’ representative to bridge

Orville Haslam brings both an exposure to tennis at the international level and marketing acumen to his position as president. A section of the well- attended General Meeting of the drafted in 1970 and the 2008 edition. SVGTTA. It was agreed that the 2008 constitution was rejected at the 2013 Left: Former President – Tyrone Jack, giving his General Meeting, hence the age-old report. 1970 version was again employed at last week’s meeting. back into the schools and get more the gap The consensus, though, emerged between the players as well ”. that the association’s constitution Haslam’s support staff, elected at executive needs to be updated to fit the modern the General Meeting, include Dennis and the Table Tennis operations and Gaymes- Vice President; Asquith players. governance issues and practices. Ballah- Secretary, Nixon LouisIn other areas of developing the The General Meeting also heard the Assistant Secretary, with Terrance sport, Haslam, who is Jamaica- born, President’s Report; however, there was Marksman- Treasurer. added, “I want to have a situation no Treasurer’s Report, as former Completing the executive are Sean where you across the board in holder of the post — Marlon Gibson, Stanley and Montgomery Howard, as administration, between coaches and had resigned his post last August. Committee Members. players, to have workshops for the Gibson, though, was present at the One of the main sticking points at administrators and for the players …. meeting and sought to be re-elected, We have to get the coaches updated, as the General Meeting was the but was defeated by Terrance well as the cadet players and the pre- association’s bona-fide constitution, as Marksman. debate waged over the use of the one cadet players … We have to also go

Lower Questelles champions in South Leeward Football Village competition AN AVAZINNI VICTORY first half goal was enough to land Lower Questelles the South Leeward champion of champions Inter- Village Football competition, last Saturday at the Campden Park Playing Field. Victory’s goal left Roucha Bay to settle for the runnerup, in a keenly contested tussle, viewed by a few hundred spectators. Before reaching Saturday’s final, Lower Questelles punched in a 3-0 win over Clare Valley. Avazinni Victory, along with national Under-15 and Under-17 female player-

Shaielle Williams and an own goal scored by Morelli Solomon of Clare Valley, accounted for Lower Questelles’ win. In the other semi- finals, Roucha Bay had defeated Top Campden Park. Jamal Bishop and Lenford Chance scored for Roucha Bay, while Chad Davis had netted for Top Campden Park. Both teams were at it before, when the match ended 1-1 and necessitated kicks from the penalty spot. But fading light stalled the kicks and a replay was ordered. Javid Gibson had converted for Roucha Bay, while Kenny

Roberts was on the score sheet for Top Campden Park. At the presentation ceremony that followed last Saturday’s final, Shaielle Williams was awarded for being the lone female to score a goal in the competition. Apart from the four semi-finalists, Top Questelles and Sandy Gully were the other competing teams. Champion of Champions- Lower Questelles.

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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Windwards face Barbados this weekend The Windwards Volcanoes will act as host to Barbados Pride this weekend at the Arnos Vale

Sporting Complex, when the clash in the Regional CWI PCL four-day competition continues. The Windward Islands, who are at the bottom of the six-team table, will be looking to turn things around, in what would be the third home match following the draw of their first match against Leewards in Grenada, and the loss to leaders and defending champions Guyana in St Lucia. In the other fixtures in this round, T&T Red Force will take on

Devon Smith, with two centuries so far, will be looking to continue his rich form.

Guyana Jaguars at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad, while Jamaica face Leewards at Warner Park in St. Kitts. In the last round of matches Trinidad and Tobago beat the Windward Volcanoes by 10 wickets, while Barbados versus Jamaica, and Guyana versus Leeward matches ended in a draw. Guyana Jaguars lead the standing on 40.4 points, followed by Leewards Hurricane 30.6. Third is Trinidad and Tobago on 19.4, ahead of Barbados on 14.0, and Jamaica in fifth position on 12.4 points.

Volcanoes in one of their two practice sessions before the match. Devon Smith, the leading run-scorer for the Volcanoes and for the tournament, with 337 from three matches with two centuries, will be hoping to continue his rich form while expecting more from the other

batters and the team in general. The Windwards Volcanoes team will be selected from Tyron Theophile Captain, Shane Shillingford ViceCaptain, Devon Smith, Tarryck Gabriel, Kavim

Hudge, Roland Cato, Kirk Edwards, Liam Sebastien, Gian Benjamin wicket keeper, Kyle Mayers, Audy Alexander, Ray Jordan, Sherman Lewis. I.B.A.ALLEN

Williams looks to spread basketball in schools IN AN EFFORT to revive the sport of basketball here, Wayne Williams, President of the SVG Basketball Association, and his executive, have developed a Motto to “Build citizenship through sports,” as they continue their work towards strengthening the sport. The St Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation Wayne Williams, President of the SVG Basketball (SVGBF) will be Association, handing over basketball to Sandy Bay rolling out two Secondary School. Brenton Child receives the ball programmes in an attempt to strengthen on the school’s behalf. the basketball feeder system in SVG - The equipment including balls, we will School Programme and The eventually spread the programme to Grassroots Programme. These Sport the primary schools”, said Williams. Development and Sport For He is of the view that one of the Development programmes, fall in line setbacks is lack of sporting with the Long Term Athlete infrastructure throughout the Development Programme (LTAD) of country, especially in the schools, is the Basketball Federation. “The majority of the schools have the The initiative is part of the hard courts, but there are hardly any SVGBBA’s long-term athlete basketball hoops, so that is a concern participation programmes, with the which is beyond our scope; but once hope that all the schools will benefit. this is rectified, the programme can However, it will only be focusing on have a lot more impact”. secondary schools right now, because Williams and his executive are of the limited resources. “The grateful for the assistance of the secondary schools do have PE National Olympic Committee, who teachers, but we are training coaches secured the basketballs, as well as to eventually spread the programme the government for duty free into the secondary schools, bearing in concessions on the balls. mind that basketball is a late development sport. Once we get the I.B.A.ALLEN resources to secure the necessary

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 25.

Sports

World Cup or Euro Cup WITH FOURTEEN of the participating 32 countries in the 2018 World Cup, European fans can bet with some confidence on a European title holder, or at least, by the law of averages, be in contention well into the top 16. Croatia, Denmark, Sweden and Switzerland earned their spots in last gasps action. And even while some might be alarmed at the widespread nature of the European composition, the omission of certain usual suspects is enough to send shock waves in those traditional soccer bases. Those relate to places like Italy, whose population will find their absence hard to apprehend. There is no Netherlands either, and when the reality sinks when fans see how other teams will be performing, eyebrows will continue to be raised, and possibly tempers will still flare. Honduras will be heartbroken, having allowed Australia to journey from so far and go home with a goalless score line. And to show how serious the Australians were, they returned home from the return leg before the Hondurans, and got acclimatised to their home conditions before the opponents. There might be a case of negligence or complacency on behalf of the Hondurans. Arrangements ought to have been made for the journey to Australia so that the team could have left as soon as possible after the first game. Australia had that part of the logistics more in control, and that ploy must have paid dividends. The Australians ran away with an easy 3:1 win, thanks to their more precise preparation. Up to last night, the final spot was up for grabs. Peru and New Zealand played goalless in Wellington. Who breaks the ice in Lima, Peru or in fact, who broke the ice would reap the joy and complete the final spot. The draw for the showdown is scheduled for December, and it would be a long period of suspense prior to the June spectacle. Another team viewing from a distance would be the USA. Their exclusion came courtesy a revenge script which even though there was the satisfaction of the victory, they missed out on progress, unlike 1989 when all Trinidad needed was a draw to make it to Italy. The Windward Islands Volcanoes and Barbados Pride are locked in a battle at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. Both teams will be looking for consistency but, given the absence of real quality, the affair is unlikely to generate enthusiastic reaction. In any event, promotion seemed to be a low priority concern towards the game. However, it might be of interest to Vincentians to witness how Ray Jordan performs. Support will be there for the entire Windwards squad, and as much as persons like to propel an insular antagonism, the Kirk Edwards, Kyle Myers clash with their Bajan counterparts might be enough to stir up intensity.

27th OECS Swimming Championships THE OECS SWIMMING Championships are an annual event featuring countries from the OECS with competitive Swimming programs. The 27th annual OECS event was held in St Lucia November 10th to 12th, 2017. Thanks to financial assistance from the SVG National Lottery, FLOW, Scotiabank, CGM Gallagher and the SVG Olympic Committee, St Vincent and the Grenadines sent a team of 25 swimmers and 2 coaches to this event. SVG continues to improve by The winning Girls 10 & Under almost every measure in Relay Team – Kennice Green, competitive swimming. We continue Adiah Phillips, Caitlin Polius to get closer to the other islands. and Zariel Nelson at the podium. However, we have the smallest team of about 25 swimmers, while in the girls age 9 to 10, the other countries have about 35 won 6 golds in her 8 races, swimmers. As a result, we are not broke 3 OECS records and yet competitive in the team scores won the overall Jayson Sandy and Eltonte part of the competition. However, in championship in her age Leonard (1st Place) at the podium. the individual swimmer results, we group. continue to see terrific results. • Eltonte Leonard, swimming • Shane Cadogan competed in in the boys age 9 to 10, won the boys age 15 to 17 and The highlights this year include: 6 gold medals in his 8 races, won five medals including on his way to the overall gold. • Thirteen (13) different championship in his age • Nikolas Sylvetser also athletes brought home group. swam in the boys age 15 to medals. • The girls age 10 & Under 17 category and included • SVG swimmers won a total won Gold in both of their one gold among his four of 62 medals including 27 relays. The team members medals. gold, 16 silver and 19 were Kennice Greene, • Seth Byron, boys age 8 & bronze medals. Caitlin Polius, Adiah Under, won five medals • SVG swimmers broke 8 Phillips, Jamie Joachim and (including two silvers) OECS records Zariel Nelson. • Bryson George, boys age 11 • Three of our young • The boys age 15 & Over to 12, won 4 medals swimmers captured the won one gold and one silver • Jamie Joachim, swimming overall championships in in their 2 relay races. in her first year of age 9 to their age groups. Shane Cadogan, Nikolas 10, won three silver medals. • We captured 4 gold medals Sylvester, Dillon Gooding • Kenale Alleyne, boys 11 to in the Relays. and Cruz Halbich made up 12 won two bronze medals the relay team. • Alex Joachim, swimming in We saw truly outstanding swimming: • Jayson Sandy broke the his first year of age 13 to Boys 50 Breaststroke record 14, won two bronze medals. • Zariel Nelson, swimming in and won 6 medals including • SVG’s national coach, Kyle the girls 8 & Under age a gold, and finished second Dougan led by example and group, won 6 gold medals in to his teammate, Eltonte, in swam only the 50 meter her 7 races, broke 4 OECS 3 races. Breaststroke race in the records and won the overall • Adiah Philips included 2 mens 18 & over, and won championship in her age gold medals in her 4 medal the bronze medal. group. performances. SVG Coach Kyle Dougan • Caitlin Polius, swimming expressed his satisfaction when he noted that five years ago, SVG had only Shné and Alex Joachim as medal winners. He said, “We have made tremendous progress in the last 5 years, and we are seeing the emergence of some great talented and hard-working kids. It’s very satisfying to see their progress. Swimming continues to demonstrate what true team-work is. This success we are having is due to the athletes, the parents, the The Boys 15-17 Relay Team – Cruz Jamie Joachim and Caitlin SVG Swimming Federation as well Halbich, Nikolas Sylvester, Dillon Polius (1st Place) at the as the coaching”.

Gooding and Shane Cadogan.

podium.

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26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017. 27.

Classifieds

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The family of the late Erdman Marshall of Villa, formerly of Upper Middle St, who passed away on October 30th, 2017, would like to express heartfelt thanks to all those who offered condolences, attended the funeral, sent wreaths, cards, paid tributes on social media or sympathized with us in any other way during our recent bereavement. We are deeply grateful for your support.

Sadly missed by wife, Lorna; children: Julie, Jason and Jodi; granddaughter, Jaya; many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. Rest in peace, our beloved. The beautiful memories we have of you will remain alive in our hearts.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 17, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.45

A.I. REAL ESTATE Calder Ridge 6 bedrm Property on 10,598 sq.ft. - $491,000.00 - H531 Diamond 3 bedrm Property on 3/4 acres. - $750,000.00 - H135 Ottley Hall 10,204 sq.ft @ $8.50 p.s.f. - $86,734.00 - BB225 Kingstown Park 32,731 sq.ft @ $23.00 p.s.f. - $752,813.00 - BB215 (784)- 457-2087 office (784)-533-0431 whatsapp (784)-493-9431 cell (718)-807-4376 office donp@vincysurf.com www.aisvg.com facebook.com/airealestatesvg

www.thevincentian.com

SMOOTH TRANSITION

will assume responsibility for Information, to add to his portfolios of Education and Ecclesiastical Affairs. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves spoke of his recovery process, following an incident in which he received injuries to his shoulder, elbow and wrist. Speaking at a press conference at cabinet room last Monday, the Vincentian leader emphasised his programme of instituting changes at the administrative and political spheres. He highlighted a number of appointments, mostly involving young persons who have assumed top positions. He is anticipating a “proper and orderly transition…. Some people leave things to chance. I have to watch things decades Dr. Ralph Gonsalves views the recent shuffling of ministerial down the road,” he asserted. Gonsalves referred to portfolios as further deepening the transition process. Ebenezer Theodore Joshua the nation’s first Chief by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY gone to the East St. George Minister, Robert Milton Cato representative Camillo the first Premier and Prime PRIME MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Minister, and Sir James Gonsalves will be relinquishing Portfolios of Industry and Mitchell - this country’s that position. Bureau of Standards which longest serving When the Unity Labour formed part of the younger parliamentarian, noting that Party holds its next Gonsalves’ assignment, have Convention, a new leader of been placed on Saboto Caesar’s none of them had made plans for succession. the party is likely to emerge. shoulder, in addition to his “I am a student of history. I Whether that person becomes duties as Minister of could write a thesis on it,” Dr Prime Minister, will be Agriculture, Forestry, Gonsalves stated. determined. Fisheries and rural “You have to prepare for a Dr. Gonsalves is yielding Transformation. transition. It is the obligation the positions party and St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, a government leader. former Director of the Agency of the sitting leader,” the ULP leader asserted. The Finance Ministry has for Public Information (API),

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Camillo Gonsalves becomes this country’s youngest ever Minister of Finance.

St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince should find the portfolio of Information right up his alley. Conscious of possible revulsions there might be in the succession issue, Dr. Gonsalves alluded to the business at hand akin to a “political family.” He sought to dispel arguments that his son Camillo was being given an advantage, with his having been entrusted with the Finance Ministry. He highlighted the profiles of both Caesar and Gonsalves, and disclosed that they were both worthy candidates, endowed with the competence to continue making contributions to the nation’s progress.

Saboto Caesar received a platter of added responsibilities to add to his already overflowing cup. As far as the Prime Minister is concerned, the transition process has been “deepening further.” Whenever the changeover occurs, Dr. Gonslaves wants it to be a “lesson… orderly and optimally in the interest of the people.”

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