THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 02-10-20

FRIDAY, OCTOBER

02, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.40

Ganja penalties too harsh Page 4

www.thevincentian.com

CXC review coming Page 15

EC$1.50

Vincy food in London Page 16

Former Ed. Minister dies Page 18

Investigate Dengue deaths Page 28

The Girls’ High School turned in another top performance in the CSEC (2020) examination. (Photo Credit: 104.3FM Facebook Page)

CSEC 2020:

GHS FIRST … CHANGES OTHERWISE

THE PRELIMINARY RESULTS of the 2020 Caribbean Examinations Council Secondary Education Certificate Examinations (CSEC) as released, have thrown up major adjustments in the previous ranking of schools’ performances.

According to a release (30/09/2020) from the Ministry of Education, while the Girls’ High School (GHS) repeated as the top performer with a 97.88% pass rate, the St. Vincent Grammar School (SVGS) was displaced from their second positon.

That school, in fact, was relegated to 4th position with a

93.32% pass rate, with the St. Martin’s Secondary School (SMSS) occupying second position with 94.48 percent, and the Bequia Seventh-day Adventist School (BSS) taking third position with 94.19%.

This is, according to an education official, the first time that the Bequia Seventh-day Adventist School has occupied a position among the top five performing schools.

And Yohance Gibson, Principal of SMSS, was moved to comment, in a press release made available on Thursday, “We are extremely

proud of our boys who performed well amidst the many challenges which confronted them. We are looking forward to great things from them in the coming years!”

Overall, there were eleven schools which recorded percentage pass rates in excess of 80%.

In addition to the four already referenced, the others were: St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (86.91%); Thomas Saunders Secondary (85.23%); Mountain View Academy (83.64%); West St. George (83.59%); St. Joseph’s Continued on Page 3.

Paige Cadogan repeated her top performance at CPEA in the 2020 CSEC exams.

PAIGE CADOGAN TOPS 2020 CSEC RESULTS

by GLORIAH… SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD PAIGE CADOGAN, Head Girl of the Girls’ High School, emerged as the student with the most outstanding results in the 2020 Caribbean Examination Council’s (CXC) Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examination.

Paige was entered in 15 subject areas and gained passes in each, represented by 14 grade ones and one grade two.

She gained Grade One’s in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Additional Mathematics, Information Technology, English A, English B, Spanish, French, Principles of Accounts, Principles of Business, Economics, Office Administration, and Electronic Document Preparation Management.

Her Grade 2 was for Geography.

Paige explained that she was a Science student but chose to incorporate a repertoire of business subjects, which she felt she would need as a basis for her intended future career.

Excellence seems never to be far from Paige’s purview. In 2015, as a student of the Windsor Primary School, she placed 1st for girls and 1st Continued on Page 3.

V Lennox Bowman: Credit Union titan takes a bow 2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

People

Lennox Bowman

THE NAME LENNOX Bowman is synonymous with the Credit Union Movement locally, regionally and internationally. ‘Brother B’, as he is affectionately known in the movement, is truly a Credit Unionist of the best quality.

Throughout his professional life and career, he has always exemplified the overarching Credit Union principle of “people helping people.”

I got to know ‘Brother B’ personally after I was elected as a Director and President of the Board of Directors of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Cooperative Credit Union (SVGPCCU) in 2014. I recall that time as a particularly testing one for me because of the duties that I had assumed then. Naturally, the responsibilities that came along with that position evoked a degree of nervousness in me initially.

I vividly recall that ‘Brother B’ was

one of the many persons who nurtured and guided me during my three-year stint as president of the SVGPCCU. I remember sitting around the table with him at several Credit Union forums at different levels; his contributions were always adept, inspiring and impactful.

This Credit Union stalwart is a repository of wisdom, kindness and professionalism. His humanity has been experienced by many through his volunteerism and devotion to duty.

There are two individuals in SVG to whom I have ascribed the title of CEO extraordinaire -Brother B is one of them.

I wish to say without any fear of contradiction, that in SVG, no other sister Credit Union has been as good to the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Police Co-operative Credit Union as the General Employees Cooperative

Credit Union (GECCU) and Brother B. In 2016, when the SVGPCCU made the ambitious decision to purchase a building in Kingstown as its own Corporate Headquarters, it was Brother B and GECCU who gladly provided the financing and other tangible assistance to the Police Credit Union.

‘Brother B’ has served at the highest levels in the Credit Union sector. He has been a long standing delegate to the SVG Cooperative League Board. He has served on the board of directors of the Caribbean Conference of Credit Unions (CCCU); and has attended several meetings and conferences at the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), the apex body of the movement.

After serving GECCU, the people of SVG, the region and the ‘Credit Union

world’ for twenty six (26) years - that twenty-one as Manager/CEO), Mr. Bowman will be retiring at the end of September, following a distinguished career.

Accordingly, I wish to tremendously thank you, ‘Brother B’, for your service and your mentorship. As you transition into your next journey in life, may your legacy be etched in the pantheon of the Credit Union movement.

Bro. Junior O. Simmons Former President SVG Police Cooperative Credit Union

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 3.

News 3 Guyana moving to collect on LIAT debts

Retired Lt. Col. Egbert Field, Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), said his Authority has already put in a claim for the money LIAT owes it. (Photo Credit: Guyana Chronicle)

IN THE FACE OF SOME REGIONAL GOVERNMENTS indicating that they are considering a request to write off monies owing to them by LIAT, staterelated agencies in Guyana seem not to be of similar mind.

According to Demerara Waves news, LIAT owes some GYD$80 million (EXC$1 = Guy$73.4) to various aviation service providers in Guyana.

Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Retired Lt. Col. Egbert Field said LIAT owes his regulatory agency

US$996,466.32, almost GYD$21 million, for landing and navigational charges.

In an exact opposite action to some regional governments, Mr. Field says GCAA has put in a claim to the courtappointed LIAT administrator, Mr. Cleveland Seaforth for the bankrupt airline to pay the monies owed.

Meanwhile, spokesman for Ogle Airport Inc. Kit Nascimento disclosed that LIAT also owes Ogle Airport Inc. just under GYD$60.5 million dating back to December 2019.

He says the bulk of the debt is for unpaid Passenger Facilitation Fees collected by LIAT. The remainder is for Landing & Parking Fees, Security Fees and Office Rental. There are also

CSEC 2020: GHS first … changes otherwise Continued from Front Page.

Convent Marriaqua (82.68%); North Union Secondary (81.38%) and Georgetown Secondary (81.15%).

Among the other schools not referenced, the Ministry of Education said in its release that the Central Leeward Secondary School (CLSS) and the Buccament Bay Secondary School (BBSS) showed vast improvement in their performance. In 2019, the CLSS recorded a pass rate of 44.77% and the BBSS recorded a pass rate of 44.08%. In 2020, CLSS pass rate increased to 69.48% and the BBSS pass rate rose to 69.50%.

Overall, those schools not achieving an 80% or better passing grade, attained between a high of 78.23 (Emmanuel High School Mespotamia) and a low of 63.33% (Troumaca Secondary).

The statistics show that there were 1552 school candidates sitting 10,914 subject entries, in 31 subject areas, from 26 secondary schools.

Approximately 81.86% of the subject entries were awarded Grades I — III (the corresponding figure in 2019 was 74.33% and 74.67% in 2018), according to the release from the Ministry of Education.That release also stated , “This year, 22.09% of the passes were at Grade I level, 37.62% at Grade II, and 40.30% at Grade III. Last year’s figures were 15.62% at Grade I, 38.53% at Grade II and 45.85% at Grade III.”

Pleasing to education officials here was the overall pass rate for Mathematics, which showed a rise from 33.10% in 2019 to 53.41% in 2020, and English A, which increased from 76.08% in 2019 to 86.73% in 2020.

And as for outstanding individual performances, the top four performers were all students of the Girls’ High School.

Paige Codogan took top honours, passing 15 subjects with 14 grade ones and 1 grade two (see accompanying story), followed by Zowie Bullock, Denisha Parsons and Jaynika Williams, each sitting 13 subjects and obtaining 13 grade ones.

The 2020 CSEC exam was administered in July, a change occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The exam was graded on a Multiple Choice Assessment Paper and the School Based Assessments, the latter being submitted prior to the July sitting.

Handling Fees owed to Trans Guyana Airways, as LIAT’s Handling Agent.

He said the claims are in the hands of the LIAT Administrator.

Spokeswoman for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Shunza Samuels said LIAT does not owe that airport.

LIAT does not owe any travel agencies in Guyana as that carrier no longer had a general sales agent in Guyana after fire had destroyed Frandec Travel’s office at Main and Quamina Streets, Georgetown, more than 15 years ago.

As the LIAT saga unfolds, much is coming to light about the extent to which LIAT was operating on the goodwill of regional governments and not

Kit Nascimento’ spokesman for Ogle Airport Inc. says that that airport is bent on collecting from LIAT. on what it could generate for itself. (Source: Demerara Waves)

Paige Cadogan tops 2020 CSEC Results Continued from Front Page. overall, albeit tying with Rishona James of the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School, in the CPEA examination.

Even back then, upon her entry into the Girls’ High School, she had vowed to maintain the level she had set at the CPEA, as an “excelling student.”

Paige, however, told THE VINCENTIAN that even as she was set to do well, the coronavirus cast some insecurities, as she worked better with face-to-face instruction.

“COVID-19 did affect my mind a little, and I knew that taking on so many subjects would be a bit stressful,” she stated, “I wasn’t too sure how CXC was going to approach it, but I managed my time as best as possible, studied as much as I could and practised as much as I could, just so that in the back of my mind I would have comfort knowing that I did my best according to my ability.”

She recalled that once it was announced that the exams would be administered through one common paper (Multiple Choice Assessments) and School Based Assessments (SBAs), she knew she had put all her effort into her SBA’s. Then it was just practice for the Multiple Choice Assessments.

Paige now moves on to the SVG Community College Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies (SVGDASGS) with the aim of continuing to build the foundation on which to pursue a career in Actuarial Science and/or Mathematical Economics.

She wishes, though, to pass on advice to aspiring students. While she is adamant that time management is of utmost importance, she counsels, “Never underestimate your abilities. You are capable of so much more than you think.”

It just looks like this dynamic young lady has surpassed the legacy which was established at the Girls’ High School by other members of her family.

THE VINCENTIAN wishes her a very productive tenure at the SVGCC-DASGS.

V Square Ganja penalties Heritage shooting matter still too harsh sent on 4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

was found in possession of locally grown marijuana, but what DESPITE THE WINDS OF seemed to be foreign was CHANGE with regard to the law and the harsh marijuana, the penalties penalties. He agreed that remain too harsh and this was an issue for the unconscionable. legislature, and made it That’s the view of clear that he was not attorney Grant Connell, blaming the Court. as he mitigated on behalf Connell also pointed of mini-bus owner and out that there was a operator Alvan Lovelace, direct nexus between of Campden Park, on value and sentencing, Tuesday. Lovelace had and referred the Court to pleaded guilty to an affidavit from possession of 270 pounds President of the or marijuana for the Cannabis Revival purpose of drug Committee (CRC) Junior trafficking and ‘Spirit’ Cottle, which puts possession with intent to the value of marijuana supply. between $200 and $250 Connell noted that per pound. The affidavit before 2008, the stated that this further maximum penalty for reduction in the cost of marijuana possession marijuana was the result was three years in prison of increased security. and $100,000.

This, along with the The Act was later difficulty in getting the amended bringing the crop to better markets, maximum penalty to created a glut on the seven years in prison and local market, resulting in $500,000 and since then, significant reduction in there have been no payment per pound that fundamental changes to has been accepted by the the Act. farmers for mere Connell said Lovelace survival.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Connell said that on the other hand, an affidavit from former head of the Narcotics Unit, ASP Foster Scott, carries the value of marijuana up to $900 per pound.

Connell asked Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne to consider the value in the affidavit of Cottle who had been in the marijuana trenches for about 50 years, rose to become President of the CRC and Liason Officer with the Medical Cannabis Authority (MCA), and has sat on the Select Committee on Medical Marijuana.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, in his response, pointed out that the law is evolving and will continue to evolve with regard to marijuana, so as to reflect the socio-economic conditions.

He noted that several years ago, persons were fined $1,000 for having just a seed in their possession, but this has changed.

Junior ‘Spirit’ Cottle provided a value for marijuana in an affidavit which attorney Grant Connell suggested should be used as guidance.

But while Connell agreed that the law had evolved in that way, he pointed out that the sentences had gone up by over 100 percent.

In relation to value, Delpleche referred to a legal authority which speaks to the issue of guidance from an experienced police officer.

Van driver jailed for drugs ALVAN LOVELACE, a 36-year-old mini-bus owner and operator of Campden Park, is into his third day of a 23month prison term for drug trafficking.

Lovelace was sentenced to 23 months for possession of 270 pounds of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking, and 21 months for possession with intent to supply.

The sentences are to run concurrently.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne handed down the penalities at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, following a sterling mitigation plea from Lovelace’s lawyer Grant Connell.

Lovelace had pleaded guilty to the charges since August, but sentencing was adjourned.

Acting on information, officers from the Rapid Response unit (RRU) headed by Corporal Lafleur Williams, had intercepted Lovelace and

two others in his minibus at Pembroke around 12:20 am on August 20.

The bus was travelling from the Leeward.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, in presenting the facts, told the court that when the occupants were questioned, Lovelace said, “Officer, me have some sacks of weed in the van.”

Corporal Williams informed the three that they would be arrested on suspicion for controlled drugs.

They were taken in custody, along with the vehicle, and a thorough search revealed seven nylon sacks.

Lovelace took responsibility, saying he was given a $500 job to collect the sacks at Chateaubelair.

The sacks were cut open in their presence, revealing the marijuana.

The other occupants denied knowledge of the drugs.

In mitigation, Connell told the court that

Lovelace was the father of eight children, and at the time, and also took care of an uncle who is now deceased. He noted that Lovelace had expressed remorse and cooperated with the police from the beginning. He added that his client pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity and had no previous convictions of a similar nature.

Connell asked the court to impose a fine.

He disclosed that Lovelace had brought to court $4,000 which was all the money he had in his Credit Union.

Connell asked the court to allow his client to pay the $4,000 forthwith and whatever balance the court imposes within a year or so.

But the Chief Magistrate, following the sentencing guidelines, and weighing the aggravating and mitigating factors, arrived at the custodial sentences.

TYSON SPENCER, a 30-year-old Green Hill man, has been committed to stand trial in the High Court, in connection with the November 22, 2019 shooting incident at Heritage Square, which left Auxiliary Police Officer Curtland Jack paralysed from his Curtland Jack is shoulder down. paralysed from the Spencer will be shoulders down. tried on charges of attempting to murder Jack, as well as the wounding with intent of Deron Quashie of Choppins and Dwayne Peters of Kingstown who were also shot during the incident.

Following a Paper Committal Procedure at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Tyson Spencer will have Browne ruled that a his day in the High prima facie case was Court. made out on all three charges.

The matter had started earlier this year as an oral Preliminary Inquiry (PI), and Jack had testified via Skype.

However, the parties involved agreed to have it concluded by way of Paper Committal.

Attorney Grant Connell is representing Tyson.

Sandy Bay man on robbery charge Attorney Grant Connell may just have raised a question of inconsistency as it applies to matters of drug possession.

When contacted on Wednesday for a comment, Connell told THE VINCENTIAN, “I have done cases before involving foreigners, chased and captured on the High Seas by local Coast Guard and found in possession of much more marijuana. They were taken to court, pleaded guilty, and were ordered to pay fines with alternative prison sentences.”

The lawyer declined to comment further.

IMRON MC COY, a 42-year-old male resident of Sandy Bay resident, will return to the Serious Offences Court on December 4, for a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into charges of robbery and inflicting serious bodily harm.

Mc Coy has been charged with, being armed with a piece of 2x2 board, robbed Kendol Bobb, 48, of Mt Greenan, of a cellular phone valued at $700 and a flash drive valued at $150, and in so doing put Bobb in fear of being there and then subjected to force.

Mc Coy is also charged with unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on Bobb.

Both incidents were allegedly committed at South Union on August 2.

Bobb reportedly sustained injuries to the forehead and suffered from a broken right arm.

Mc Coy was not required to plead to the charges when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday. He was granted $4,000 bail with one surety with reporting conditions, and ordered not to have any contact with the virtual complainant.

Mc Coy was without legal representation on Wednesday, but he indicated that attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste would be representing him.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 5.

News

Fountain SDA honours six THE SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH at Fountain gave back to the community of Fountain and Belair, when it recognized and honoured six (6) retired Educators/Civil Servants on Saturday 26th September, 2020 at its Home Coming and Honoree/Award service held at the Seventh Day Adventist Church at Fountain.

Recognized for their outstanding contribution to nation building and also for active involvement in the communities of Belair and Fountain were: Mrs. Marlene (aka Merle) Wright — educator from 1955 — 1995 (40 Yrs.);

Mrs. Pamela Charles educator from 1962 — 2003 (41 yrs.); Ms. Sylvia Jordon- educator from 1968 — 2007 (39 yrs.); Mr. Innis Primus — educator from 1978 — 2018 (18 yrs.); Mr. Theodore (aka Theo) Huggins — educator from 1974 — 2017 (43 yrs.) and Mr. Bernard (aka BT) Marksman - educator & Civil Servant from 1972 — 2008 (35 yrs.)

Mr. Huggins was not only an educator, but he was actively involved in community work and served as a coordinator of the Red Cross Affiliate, and NEMO Affiliate in the community. He was also a national volleyball player and coach of the

National Volleyball Team. He was also a netball coach.

Mr. Marksman served as Director General of the Local Red Cross Society for many years, leading in Disaster Management Risk Reduction. He has served on NEMO, as a member of BELFONGO and the St. Vincent Jaycees. He has been instrumental in organizing several community projects.

Innis Primus continues to offer evening classes for children, especially for those preparing for CPEA. He has served as an invigilator for CSEC. Marlene Wright

New Distribution Centre at Diamond COREAS DISTRIBUTION LIMITED (CDL) is pleased to announce the impending ground-breaking of its State-of-the-Art Distribution Centre and Offices at Diamond. CDL is a member of the Goddard Enterprises/Agostini’s Limited joint venture company, Caribbean Distribution Partners Limited (CDP).

Coreas Distribution is one of seven fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) distribution companies within CDP with a very successful track record based on its strong and lasting relationships with strategic Suppliers, Customers and Government stakeholders.

The CEO of CDL, Mr. Jimmie Forde, who is a stalwart of the regional FMCG industry, is delighted with the EC $27.7m investment at Diamond. “Our team has done well with the facilities which we currently occupy, but we look forward to treating our Customers to a more efficient service while housing our enthusiastic team in upgraded

facilities.” Local architect Mr. Aurin Bennett provided architectural services for the project which has been 2 years in the planning.

The new Distribution Centre will have 48,000 sq. ft of warehouse space split between dry, frozen and chilled storage. Offices and employee facilities will cover an additional 12,500 sq. ft. The project is expecting to create employment opportunities for approximately 120 persons during construction.

Group CEO of CDP, Ms. Tracey Shuffler, states that the investment in CDL’s facilities forms part of a strategic decision to ensure that all the Group’s facilities reflect the shareholders’ dedication to regional expansion and investment. “This project in St Vincent and the Grenadines follows similar facility expansions in St Lucia, Grenada, Trinidad and Barbados. We see this most recent project as necessary, despite prevailing circumstances, in order to be well prepared for future growth.”

continues to avail her skills in cake baking and decorating to the community. She also, has served as an invigilator and supervisor of External and Tertiary Examinations.

Mrs. Charles taught adult evening classes in the community of Belair.

Sylvia Jordon serves as a presiding officer in General Elections,

(L-R Front Row): Mr. Theodore Huggins, Mr. Innis Primus, Ms. Jacqueline Pinder (accepting on behalf of Mrs. Pamela Charles), Ms. Sylvia Jordon, Mrs, Marlene Wright and Mr. Bernard Marksman. supervises CXC Examinations and offers lessons to grade 6 students preparing for CPEA. Each honoree was presented with a plaque in recognition of their commitment and service.

The Home Coming and

Honoree/Award event formed part of activities to commemorate the 70th anniversary since the church was established in the community of Fountain in 1950.

(Submitted by SDA Fountain)

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6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Marion House 31st Anniversary

Vincentians for 31 years.

To observe the anniversary on Friday October 2nd, a church service will be held at the Cathedral of the Assumption from 9am. The chief celebrant will be the brain child of Marion House, Monsignor Michael Stewart.

As part of the commemoration, a documentary will highlight the various programmes and achievements of Marion House, with specific focus on the youth and the various partners, will be showcased.

Director Jeanie Ollivierre said Marion House has been a beacon in the society …

Marion House is located along the main road into Kingstown tackling issues related to parenting, substance abuse just before the Sally Spring gap. and domestic violence.

She noted that it is the only IMAGINE HOW CHAOTIC OUR immeasurable services of SOCIETY would be without the Marion House comes into play. professional counselling centre services of psychological The non-profit institution has in the entire country and all the services are free of cost. counselling, training and just a been quietly offering those (SG) place to talk. services for free, and Ollivierre said that they try That's where the impacting the lives of to accommodate people from every spectrum with many clients such as

Participants in the Youth Assistance Programme share a happy moment with Director Jeanie Ollivierre (stooping 3rd from left).

Right: Participants in the Youth Assistance Programme on attachment. juveniles, parents and substance abusers being referred to Marion House by the courts.

Staff at the House are by and large all volunteers, and Ollivierre described them as “resolute champions at ensuring the mission of Guiding the Individual unto the Role to Wholeness’.”

The Marion House Director revealed that there are several

young people currently involved in Phase Two of the Youth Assistance Programme at the Technical Institute while those who did foods have completed the programme and are out on internship.

She excitedly announced that the new cycle of those involved in the parenting programme commenced on Wednesday 30th September.

(SG)

Jamaica Appeal Court gets Vincy roots WHEN NINE MEMBERS of the judiciary in Jamaica were sworn into higher office on September 14 this year by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, among them was Nicole Adrienne Simmons.

Justice Simmons was one of two elevated to serve on the Court of Appeal in Jamaica.

Justice Simmons, it is to be noted, is of Vincentian heritage.

She was born in the

UK to a Jamaican mother, Barbara Curtis (surname of her second husband), and Vincentian father Frederick Simmons, now residing in Trinidad and Tobago, but with roots that originate in Greiggs.

Because of her father, Justice Simmons’ bloodline includes the Simmons, Commissiong, Maloney and Douglas families of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Governor General Allen, in congratulating

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen presents newly appointed judge of the Court of Appeal Justice Nicole Simmons, with her Instrument of Appointment, Sept. 14, 2020.

Justice Nicole Simmons has roots in a significantly historic Vincentian community, Greiggs.

Justice Simmons, noted that she had been appointed on her own merit, and displayed outstanding qualities such as personal integrity, experience and competence.

“These qualities will serve you in good stead as you discharge your duties,” Sir Patrick told Justice Simmons.

Justice Simmons is no stranger to the Court of Appeal in Jamaica, she having acted as an Appeal Court Judge from October to December in 2019. (CD)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 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

COVID and DENGUE together HERE IN ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, we have been able to steady if not halt the spread of COVID-19. As of Tuesday 29th September, we had recorded 64 cases all of whom have recovered, meaning that we stand among an ‘elite’ group of countries worldwide which has not yet recorded any deaths due to the COVID-19.

That sounds ‘nice and dandy’, but we cannot afford to let down our guard, since the disease is known to reemerge even when conditions on the ground don’t seem to encourage it.

But wait! Stick a pin! We are now doubly plagued, so to speak, with the emergence of a rapidly spreading Dengue Fever outbreak which, unlike COVID19, has already claimed four lives.

Those deaths should be enough to awaken us to the realization that this outbreak is real, and calls for, like COVID19, the hands of every man Jack and woman Jill on deck, if we are to win the war and not just a battle here and there.

Yes, we ‘boast’ that we have in the past surmounted Dengue Fever outbreaks. But the thing about Dengue is that because it is mosquito borne, it stands a good chance of inflicting its bite at any given time, in any given year during which we are wont to lessen our attention to practices that prevent breeding of the mosquito.

Perhaps those involved in the delivery of preventative health care and those given over to matters of epidemiology might not have even given a passing thought to this temporal coincidence of the two ‘outbreaks’ happening at the same time.

If they had, our running around as it stands now, might not have been so ad lib and, therefore, would have engendered wider confidence in our Health Services.

COVID-19 by itself can cause great upheaval to the population and necessitate intensive attention from both the private and public health services.

Think of the effect of the two (COVID and Dengue) working in

tandem.

And working in tandem presents another challenge.

Experts tell us that the two are difficult to distinguish because they share clinical and laboratory features. This makes for possible misdiagnosed cases.

And then there is the question of whether we have enough intensive care units to accommodate patients with COVID-19 and Dengue Fever.

Can we afford the increased cost of hospitalization?

We know that the Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that spreads Dengue, is most prevalent in cities, and experts warn that increased urbanization and warming temperatures due to climate change mean that its range will keep increasing.

Experts say that while reduced travel means fewer opportunities for mosquitoes to bite people with Dengue and so o become carriers themselves, the coronavirus pandemic has introduced other variables.

Staying home – one way to slow outbreaks of COVID-19, especially in cities – poses greater risks for spreading Dengue. That’s because the Aedes mosquito bites during the day, and with more people staying home, where mosquito populations are high, the more likely they are to be bitten.

Dengue patients need acute care, and this could lead to a “double whammy” that overwhelms health care systems.

No one wishes this on us and we, for sure, don’t wish it upon ourselves.

Working with communities the operative word there being ‘with’ - to stop mosquitoes from breeding has proven elsewhere to be the most successful antidengue strategy in recent years.

For those reasons and more, every resident in this country must commit to following the advice of the health officials.

To ignore those who are tasked and qualified to guide us through this two-pronged attack, is to spell danger for the entire country and , God forbid, a trail of death.

What about “Our National Heroes”?

(First published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday14th October, 2016.)

WE ARE GALLOPING FULL SPEED ahead towards the celebratory goal of our 37th Independence which falls in another 12 days or so on the 27th day of October, still without a recognised slate of National Heroes to guide and inspire us by the examples of their lives.

Towards the end of the 20th century, our broad masses of people had acclaimed and proclaimed on their own permanent Chief Joseph Chatoyer as our First National Hero.

In 2002, within the first year of the ULP’s forming Government, Chatoyer was confirmed and legally ratified, as such, with the ULP pledging a fuller slate in a short time which is yet to arrive.

In fact, it is now a moot question as to which will win the obstacle race, the International Airport or the slate of National Heroes, both having so far experienced fourteen years of gestation!

In this matter I was early off the blocks, sending the new ULP Government through their Minister of Culture, Mike Browne four articles on the persons I felt best qualified for the accolade to join National Hero Joseph Chatoyer: George Mc Intosh, Hugh Mulzac, and Ebenezer Joshua. I was given short shrift by the minister, and engaged in the subsequent run-around that is still current to this day.

In response to my original request, I learned that of my three nominations, Mulzac was ruled out by legislation which laid it down that the Hero must have generally performed within the boundaries of his country which benefited directly therefrom. Mulzac did his thing in the USA. Yet surprisingly Mulzac Square in Union Island kicked off the current celebrations. More on Mulzac later.

Mc Intosh and Joshua were certainly regaled a long time ago in the hearts of the people and hardly require the published effort of Adrian Fraser, John Horne and myself to document and provide evidence on their behalf.

Further to the Three “Wise Men”, I admit that I was short-sighted to have omitted the obvious claim of Dr. Parmenos Eustace. I have to thank most profusely Vin Samuel and to a lesser degree Theodore Browne for drawing to the public attention the immense contribution of Dr. Eustace especially to the educational development of SVG in the crucial years 1950-1970 and beyond.

The Prime Minister would have appointed a high power committee to

advice on this matter of “National Heroes” to which he professed grave importance. But this committee just cannot deliver. The bug in the rug was clearly over the question of whether or not Milton Cato deserves this halo.

To cut a long story short, the Prime Minister who by legal stealth has the final say, wants Cato for narrowly political purpose while his committee does not, nor a core of ULP- stalwarts including Blazer Williams, Chairman of PSC and particularly Jomo Thomas, Speaker of the House.

In fact, Jomo resigned from the Advisory Committee on hearing the Prime Minister’s open lecture in favour of Cato which was wrong on several counts, but it does not matter to the Prime Minister as long as Rene Baptiste carries on as Chairman as she is of another important body, that of the Bar Association whose influence is increasingly vital in these times.

In addition to the “ban” imposed unfairly on Mulzac, there is another qualification which stipulates that the “Hero” must have died. This provision gained my attention only after I had read a letter appearing in the “Vincentian” of June 15 2016.

Some Caricom countries like St Kitts and Antigua court the risk of living heroes causing embarrassment by unseemly behaviour after the event, but it now seems to me that the sorry cause of our interminable delay may well be that Ralph does not want to take chances, so would wish to be named National Hero while alive as the writer puts it: “Biases and prejudices aside, let’s give Jack his (red?) jacket and flowers while he can smell them.”

I see the current Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in much the same light as our first national hero, Joseph Chatoyer. Like Chatoyer, Dr. Gonsalves, after a 21st century model, has well liberated Vincentian people by opening wide the doors of opportunity for advancement and progression, like no leader of any government before him. I would dare say, when the discussions continue regarding naming a new national figure, maybe we should not seek to do of one posthumously.”

Of course, this was written by “Rizpah Steward”, another pen-name of Gonsalves bent on his self-promotion.

Cato could now be dropped like a hot potato. But what about Sir James Mitchell in the new dispensation?

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Our agriculture is crying out THE IMPORTANT LESSON that this COVID-19 pandemic has taught us is that we were too focused on the tourism sector, and not enough attention was being paid to agriculture.

In that respect, I am in full agreement with Mr. LeRoy Providence who writes often in THE VINCENTIAN, and who has laboured consistently on how the ULP has ‘destroyed’ banana and by extension agriculture.

Mr. Editor, without the agriculture sector, without the farmers, this country would essentially

have no food to consume, especially at this at this time of COVID-19. That is, unless we are prepared to import the expensive food which very few Vincentians will be able to afford.

I am not saying that tourism is not an important sector of our economy, but it must not be developed at the expense of our agriculture which has kept us going for generations. In fact, the tourism sector should be developed so that the agricultural sector can

serve it and benefit accordingly.

How often have I heard, “We have to import because the farmers here cannot supply”? That may be so, but have we ever stopped to consider that we are not supporting agriculture in a way that it serves the tourism industry and the consumer generally?

There are all kinds of incentives for hotels etc., but where is the sustained support, financial and technical for farmers? The

tardiness, as Mr. Providence alludes too so often, caused the wiping out of the banana by Black Sigatoka. Why is it that with all that we hear about how much $$$ we are giving farmer that our agriculture is still failing us?

Come on, we have to stop treating agriculture as the ‘ugly duckling’.

We have to build our agricultural sector so that it would not only guarantee that we can feed ourselves especially during times when external circumstances

Children learn what they see & hear THE BEVAVIOUR of our young people, especially those in secondary schools, has gone through the roof. It seems every day there is something on Facebook showing some fight among students, young people fighting on the streets, even young people and police fighting in broad daylight.

And worse, there have also been in the past videos of young people having sex in classrooms and even off school where the girls involve themselves with older men who should know better.

If you ask me, our young people are running on their own track, and if we don’t do something about it, this track might become the track for all of us.

But really, can we truly say that the young people are to be blamed?

Children learn from what they see and hear.

If there is cursing and fighting, acts of violence, obscene language and open showing of ‘blue movies’, what can you expect from our young people? They will learn and adopt what they see and hear at home.

have encouraged this And, what of the lawlessness know fully broader society? All well who they are. kinds of big people are I stand corrected, Mr. doing this and that, Editor, but the hurtful setting no example for thing about all of this is themselves and the that I have not heard young people. So what do you expect? If a high any Minister of Government condemn ranking police can buss any of this behavior. ah dutty word, who is me? If a politician could Silence is consent, isn’t call somebody ‘dutty dog, that what they say? and no body bat an eyelid, who is me to say Charles, Edinboro somebody is a bitch?

Then there is a sense of lawlessness that that our founder and has taken over leader, Yeshua (Jesus), the country. Have made it clear that he did you noticed how ACCORDING TO OUR not come to destroy the law people walk in CONSTITUTION, we are the road like is known as Vincentians who: (Matt. 5:17).

Law is the system of no body business, (a) have affirmed that their Rules which a particular even though (our) nation is founded on there is a side the belief in the supremacy country or community walk for of God and the freedom and recognizes as necessary for regulating the action of its pedestrians? And dignity of man; (b) desire they have the that their (our) society be so members. Jesus did not come to earth to establish a heart to say to ordered as to express their religion, but a government drivers, ‘Knock (our) recognition of the (Isa. 9:6) - a Kingdom. And me down if you principles of democracy, law presupposes every bad.” And ‘doh free institution, social government/kingdom. talk ‘bout dem justice and equality before As Christian Democrats, mini buses! They the law; (c) realize that the our mission on earth is to own the road, the maintenance of human revolutionize all side walk and dignity presupposes safe governments on earth, some, it appears, guarding the right of starting with SVG, by go very well with privacy, of family life, of establishing the law of our the police. I am property and the fostering creator God. We are peace not going to point of the pursuit of just makers. We will associate fingers since I am economic rewards for certain those who labour; (d) desire that their with governments and oppositions and (our) constitution should communities to make earth enshrine the above the King of Heaven. We will mentioned inalienable make our Constitution work rights, principles and as a colony of Heaven, not ideals…

Our constitution provided of England as it was. We will also work to bring the basic principles and England under the colony of laws of our nation. And Heaven, starting with the since it is founded on the unity of the Commonwealth belief in the supremacy of God, all true Christians are nations… to acknowledge that fact Christian Democrat

Our Constitution and the Law

throw up shocks in our economy.

And if I may say, all the help that we say we have given and promise to farmers does not reflect a clear direction/plan for our agriculture from our government.

The agricultural sector is crying out for more

meaningful structure.

Without this, our farmers will continue to plant with no guaranteed market for their produce.

It is clear that more attention needs to be given to the agricultural sector moving forward.

Andrew, WSG

Support our CoP WHEN I SHARED with a group of my friends that I thought we needed to give our Commissioner of Police (CoP) our support, they laughed me down, and dared me to go public with my opinion.

I am not one to broadcast my views, but I decided to take my friends up on their dare and chose your publication through which to have the last laugh on my friend.

My point to my friends was that we have had too many years of Police Commissioners who were ineffective. This situation was, in my opinion, the result of a system that promoted on the basis of political allegiance over genuine competence and clearly blind support over any real sense of commitment to sworn duty to serve the entire country, all citizens and residents regardless of political affiliation, class, colour and creed.

I went further to say that I was of the opinion that Mr. Colin John was a break from this norm; that he was an example of a home grown boy with police training and more so, years of practice as an Assistant Director of Public Persecutions.

I view Mr. John as one who would be professional, honest and ethical in dispensing his duties.

In that I light. I suggested to my friends that the CoP needed all the support he could get from the public, especially in his fight against crime.

Terrence P Kingstown

Value of time THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) Pandemic begs for a new efficiency where the adage ‘Time is of the Essence’ should take front row prominence.

In fact, the demise of LIAT should, like Covid-18, take us to a new consciousness of the value of time.

One of the elements that Covid 19 has brought into focus is the effectiveness of working from home, where one’s effort is not measured by showing up to work, but in actual production.

Hopefully, the ‘new normal’ that Covid-19 has occasioned will also result in a new mindset with respect to aviation in the region.

Carlyle Douglas

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Deception NDP Style

Introduction LAST WEEK the opposition New Democratic Party produced a “flip flop” beyond anything anyone could imagine, in the political circles in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Former political leader, Sir James Mitchell, received an order of about forty thousand tee-shirts, apparently for the upcoming political campaign. He bragged and boasted to his friends, that the shipment was coming, along with some stickers. The stickers were already displayed on some vehicles here.

Imagine the look on Sir James Mitchell’s face, when the packages were opened, and he discovered that they were white in colour. Lord have his mercy, what an embarrassing situation for the NDP. But not to be outdone, Sir James, being the master strategist that he claims he is, found a solution.

Why not change the political colours of the party, from yellow to white? Why not find a reason to do this, for example, the need to attract the middle of the road and swing voters, who might not vote? And so Sir James took to the podium to explain the new strategy, the changing of the party colours. How this will play out in the campaign is anyone’s imagination.

Appropriation Bill, which required the approval of the Parliament. Among the payments to be sanctioned by the Parliament was a sum of money designated for the IADC, following the sale of lands in Canouan.

It is important to note that members of the Opposition, including Arnhim Eustace, Daniel Cummings and St. Clair Leacock, were present in the Parliament when the motion was debated, and in fact they participated in the debate.

As Prime Minister Gonsalves explained at the time, the money for sale of 40 acres of land in Canouan, amounted to EC$53.6 million dollars.

The parliament had to approve the transfer of the money from the Consolidated Fund to the account of the IADC, and that was done. So it is clear to all and sundry, including the Opposition, what this sale was all about.

Further details in relation to the debate on the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, No.4 of 2013, can be obtained in the Parliamentary Hansard, which is available.

So it’s disingenuous and a clear In early 2016 deception for the NDP, and Arnhim Eustace, to pretend that there was The NDP was at it again, trying to something wrong with the sale of the deceive Vincentians about the sale of lands in Canouan. It is important to land in Canouan, to finance the mention that the NDP did not remain in international airport project at Argyle. the parliament for the entire debate on Based on a flippant comment during a conversation between a developer and a the Bill. They walked out of the House few people in Canouan, a statement was following a disagreement over a matter between the member for West made that if the people of that Kingstown, Daniel Cummings, and Grenadine island wanted access to a certain beach, then they should ask Dr. government senator Julian Francis.

Let us not forget that the NDP Ralph Gonsalves to return the sum of opposed the sale of the land in the money paid for the land, to the Grenadines, as part of their overall developer. opposition to the construction of the Immediately, that statement went international airport at Argyle. They “viral” as our young people would say. wanted to place as many obstacles in The following day, a Saturday, Nice the way of the ULP administration, to Radio was putting a spin on this matter. delay, and ultimately to stop the Within a week, Arnhim Eustace was construction of the airport. They have leading his party, the NDP, on a failed miserably in this regard. veritable charge that was going nowhere. He wanted to know about the The NDP deception land that was sold, where is the US$60 million dollars paid for the land, when it Having failed in their bid to win the was deposited, and whether or not it general election in December 2015, the was in the Consolidated Fund.

NDP has embarked on a series of These questions had one aim in mind, activities to discredit the leadership of and that is to create in the minds of the ULP, and in particularly, the Prime Vincentians, particularly those in Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Look at Canouan, that there was some “hanky the way they tried to link the ULP and panky” in terms of the sale of the land, its leadership to the fiasco in Panama, that somehow the money was deposited in relation to monies lodged there by in the hands of Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, certain world leaders. There is and that there was some corrupt acts or absolutely no proof that anyone in the acts, as a result of this “sale” of land. leadership of the ULP invested any This whole tissue of conjecture and money in Panama. lies, is all part of the NDP platform to Expect the NDP to continue to try to create uncertainty in the country, in the use events to smear the name of the wake of their defeat at the polls held in ULP and its leadership. Expect the NDP December 2015. Unfortunately for the to continue to try to fool the people of NDP, they forgot that there is an St. Vincent and the Grenadines in a institution called the Parliament of this number of ways. Expect the NDP to country. seek to obtain relevance as a key stakeholder, a strategic partner in the The meeting of the House development process of our beloved state. And expect the people of St. At a meeting of the House of Vincent and the Grenadines to continue Assembly the 6th June 2013, Prime to reject the NDP, as an unpatriotic Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves moved a bunch, bereft of a philosophy and a motion under Section 70(3) of the strategy to take our country forward.

Constitution, in relation to a In the face of impressive progress in Supplementary Appropriation Bill No.4 terms of the development of the country, of 2013, to sanction payments from the the NDP and Godwin Friday, can do no Consolidated Fund, for services in more than make dream statements, wild excess of the 2013 budget. There were posturing and weak leadership. And four items from four separate sources of now we have this tee-shirt issue.

Who really is leading the NDP? funding, under the Supplementary

East St. George to be transformed (Excerpts of Lavern Velox’s presentation at a virtual Meeting) I HAVE A PLAN to get people working and to bring new investment to upgrade our deteriorating infrastructure in East St. George. In return for a vote for me in this upcoming election, I, as part of a Dr. Friday led New Democratic Party (NDP) government, can offer you jobs, jobs and more jobs.

The first thing I will do when elected as your representative is to provide training to our young people, so they can acquire skills and develop expertise to build a thriving career here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For too long, young people graduating from school have not been able to find work here, and have resorted to leaving our shores in search of job opportunities.

I will work with local businesses to develop internship and apprenticeship agreements. This will open up job opportunities for recent graduates and provide them with the skills needed for them to thrive in the workplace.

Every young person deserves the opportunity to learn new skills, to develop and to provide for themselves and their families.

Our children deserve the best education. That is why the NDP’s plan for jobs and growth will equip our children for successful futures and careers. This includes improving the delivery of education at the Calliaqua Anglican School, which will also be expanded to facilitate day care and early childhood development.

This education thrust will not be limited to our young people and children. I believe everybody should be given the opportunity to grow and develop, if they want to. Therefore, I am going to introduce a programme of adult classes in Information Technology (IT), aimed at providing adults with the skills needed to navigate in a digital age. This will open the door to new career prospects for the people of East St. George, and give them new skills that can be used to better their lives. We cannot hope to grow as a nation if we do not help our people to develop.

To help our plan for jobs and growth we need upgraded roads to facilitate travel and trade. I have been outdoor knocking the length and breadth of the constituency and people are fed up with the deplorable condition of the roads. In order to facilitate ease of travel and trade, we will rehabilitate the road network in East St. George, but not in a superficial way that will require constant maintenance. We will do it right. No more choosing which hole to brave. All of this will create opportunity, as the NDP wants to employ locals to help fix local roads.

The Unity Labour Party (ULP) has said they will oppose our constituency development fund, because they do not trust local people. They would prefer to give the contracts for minor local works to their friends or overseas companies. We, in the NDP, trust the people of East St. George to do what is best for East St. George.

Furthermore, the NDP will construct covered bus sheds throughout the constituency, including in Fairbaine, Brighton,

Belmont, Villa and Glen, to provide shelter from the heat of the sun and tropical rain, so that people can get to their place of work no matter the weather. With improved transport infrastructure, less damage will be done to vehicles, goods and to our health, thereby eliminating unnecessary bills.

The ULP has also neglected the healthcare of the people in East St George for too long. It has never been more important to ensure access to quality healthcare. The COVID pandemic and the outbreak of Dengue Fever across the land are prime examples why the healthcare of our people is a priority. That is why we will improve and upgrade the Enhams Clinic and upgrade the Calliaqua Clinic to fully-fledged polyclinics, so the constituents of East St. George can have access to the best facilities available.

The people of East St. George have been neglected by the ULP. That is not the sign of true leadership. This is compounded by the fact that the Minister of Finance, your soon to be former representative, lives in East St. George and allowed the constituency to deteriorate.

Camillo, I want your vote too! You really don’t want to be on the wrong side of history.

The NDP will work to ensure that each and every person in St. Vincent and the Grenadines feels safe and secure. We will protect homes from the climatic conditions our islands face. In East St. George we will introduce several measures, including improving the drainage system and river defences in Calliaqua that have been left unattended.

The NDP will address the high levels of crime that have left so many people worried and concerned about personal safety and protection of property. We have a plan that will reassure residents of their safety, so they do not feel vulnerable whenever they engage in social activity away from home. No need to rush home and lock yourselves away like prisoners in the place you’re supposed to feel most relaxed.

Furthermore, we will refurbish the Calliaqua Police Station and residential quarters to ensure our officers have the best possible facilities. After 20 years in power, Ralph and the ULP have grown complacent, leaving the people of East St. George and the rest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to fend for themselves.

Our Dr. Friday has a clear plan to create new jobs, and the determination and the leadership skills to build a brighter future for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He is passionate about bettering the lives of Vincentians and committed to achieving this goal.

In the upcoming election, you have the chance to change the course of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ future, to build a brighter future for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where our young people have the opportunity to work and thrive.

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“I don’t focus on what I am up against.

I focus on my goals and try to ignore the rest.” - Venus Williams (born 1980) American professional tennis player. A former world No. 1, Williams is generally regarded as one of the alltime greats of women's tennis.

WE PERIODICALLY need to be reminded of the need to retain our focus as we pursue our noble ambitions. This is true for the athlete who desires to perform at her best but is being encouraged by peers to abandon her training schedule. It is also a timely reminder for the student who is seeking to secure excellent grades but is being distracted by colleagues who desire to have a “nice time” by partying and/or clubbing. This description also fits the young entrepreneur who is tempted to spend revenues just received from sales on items that may not necessarily aid in restocking or reinvesting in the business.

There needs to be a disciplined focus on what must be done to achieve our goals.

There must be a strong enough desire to retain the focus if we are to generate the desired success.

Many of the tertiary level educational administrators and curriculum designers of strategy courses engage in developing programmes that encourage participants to embrace the concepts of strategic foresight. Some of the tools involved require participants to engage in exercises that aid in developing skills and techniques in anticipating future demands for specific products and services. Having done so, participants are reminded to retain some degree of flexibility even as they advance their respective projects and initiatives. In other words, they are required to maintain a focus on the desired outcomes even as adjustments may be made to the methodologies used.

Managers and leaders of firms and organisations that are going through a crisis often need to focus on seven key areas: crisis stabilization, stakeholder management, new leadership, organisational change, strategic focus, critical process improvement, and financial restructuring. These seven significant variables are considered critical in enabling the enterprise to survive internal and external business shocks. Focusing on these key factors could determine the degree of success engendered.

James Webb, the famous maker of the local School Boy Beer (mauby), was my athletics coach during my teenage and young adult years. Being a former national athlete, he provided very useful guidelines related to preparing for athletics competition. However, his words of wisdom were not limited to track and field events; he imparted useful life guidance principles. Just as the athlete needs to be physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared for competition, we need to exhibit similar discipline and focus as we face life’s varied challenges. Focus is critical. We endanger the outcome of the race should we gaze to see who is behind us.

We risk losing to the competition if we allow those spectators in the cool of the pavilion to dampen our spirits by their negative comments. Alternately, we gain momentum and increased energy should we hear the voice of encouragement from the side-line as others cheer us on. The analogy of the runner is rich with lessons that remind us of the value of having a disciplined and focused approach to life. This is as true for the athlete as it is for the

Reparations battle needs more Prophets student, employee, pastor, and entrepreneur. There is value in retaining the focus on our noble goals even amidst life’s trials and challenges.

The story is told about an ancient Indian sage who was teaching students the art of archery. One day he wanted to test their skills. He summoned them to assemble in the courtyard where they had been perfecting their talents.

He then placed a wooden bird several yards ahead of them and instructed them to aim for the bird’s eye.

Just prior to emitting his arrow from the bow, the sage asked the first student who was tasked to perform this feat to describe what he saw. He responded in a most unusual manner indicating that he had seen the sky, the clouds, trees, the bird, and the bird’s eye. The wise sage then requested that this aspiring archer wait for a moment before releasing the arrow. He then asked the second student to describe what he saw. He responded by indicating that he only saw the bird’s eye. The wise teacher then instructed the second student to release his arrow.

It flew through the air with great speed and precision hitting the wooden bird in the eye. His instructions that followed provided a useful lesson for his students (and for us today): “Always remain focused on your goal regardless of the distractions and obstacles around you. When you do, you will succeed.”

Sean Brawley, a former USA professional tennis player, speaking at a TED talk session at Ferguson Library in 2018, reminded the audience that, “The ability to control our attention will determine our success in performing any task.” We are reminded that in any “ball game” (i.e. tennis, cricket, basketball, netball, etc.) the successful individuals or teams develop the discipline of keeping their eyes on the ball. Focus on the ball is what really matters. Not the opponent. Not the referee/umpire. Not the spectators.

But on the ball. Focus is critical. We perform at our best when we retain the focus on the activity … and avoid being distracted by surrounding events.

Leaders and managers in businesses, government, and other organisations can learn from this truth. This is especially so as we seek to survive (and thrive) in the post-COVID-19 environment. If we focus on leveraging our strengths (core competencies) we readily discover that we perform much better than when we seek to engage in “scatter-shot approaches” — seeking to do too many things and not doing any of these exceptionally well. There is wisdom in narrowing our focus to the variables that really matter; the activities that generate cash flows, behaviours that create and sustain customer or client loyalty, and so on.

It is probably fitting to review the thoughts shared in the Venus Williams quotation that was used to introduce this essay. She asserts that she does not focus on what she is up against but rather on her goals. She ignores the rest. We, too, may readily discover the wisdom in such an approach to the situations that may be slowing us down and making us less efficient than we can be. Greater focus and determination may be what is required for us to accomplish more.

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

IN LIGHT OF THE RECENT global antislavery and anti-colonial protests led by the Black Lives Matter movement, a burning issue that has not been prominently addressed is that of reparations for the victims of these two evil scourges in the Caribbean, the Americas, and Africa.

How can Western nations who enslaved and colonised black people over five centuries repair the extensive damage that has left these regions with the triple burdens of underdevelopment, diseases, and deadly conflicts? These problems amount to a festering wound that needs to be urgently addressed.

Three prophets have been at the forefront of these debates: AfricanAmerican lawyer Randall Robinson and Barbadian and Nigerian historians Hilary Beckles and Ade Ajayi.

As the 400th anniversary of American slavery was commemorated last year, the thorny issue of reparations for descendants of this exploitative system of enforced servitude and uncompensated labour has once more come to the fore. Similar campaigns also exist in the Caribbean and Africa.

Perversely, it was slave owners — and not enslaved Africans or their descendants — who were compensated by the American and British governments for the loss of their ‘property’. The British government paid the contemporary equivalent of £200 billion to slave owners after it abolished slavery in 1833. Some Democrats in the United States House of Representatives and Senate have embraced the cause of reparations, and some institutions, like Brown, Harvard, Yale, Glasgow and Georgetown universities, that benefited from the enslavement and exploitation of African labour have started to acknowledge their role in this sordid commerce and begun putting programmes of restitution in place.

The most articulate American crusader of reparations has been activist Randall Robinson, who led the civilsociety anti-apartheid struggle in the US in the 1980s through his NGO TransAfrica. He has consistently argued for reparations in order to close the 250year gap between white and black Americans created by plantation slavery. As Robinson correctly noted, “The black holocaust is far and away the most heinous human-rights crime visited upon any group of people in the world over the last 500 years.” He, therefore, urged America’s largely white ruling class to redress these historical wrongs. Robinson further noted that Germany paid Jews reparations for the devastating but much shorter Holocaust (1933-45) — estimated at US$60 billion — while Japanese Americans interned in concentration camps by President Franklin Roosevelt during the Second World War (1939-1945) were also compensated with a US$1.2-million payment. He further observed that indigenous populations received land and money for the Australian government’s genocidal campaign against them between 1788 and 1901.

To understand the structural impact of slavery to which Robinson is alluding, one should note that during the current COVID-19 crisis, African Americans have overwhelmingly been among its fatalities, accounting for 30 per cent of deaths, though constituting only 13 per cent of the US population.

Apologise and take responsibility In the Caribbean, the vice-chancellor of The University of the West Indies (UWI), Hilary Beckles, has led the reparations debate, consistently noting that “slavery and genocide in the Caribbean are lived experiences despite over a century of emancipation.

Everywhere, their legacies shape the lives of the majority and harm their capacity for advancement”. Modern illnesses common among Caribbean citizens like diabetes and hypertension can be traced directly to the bad diet

and other ailments inherited from the era of European slavery and colonialism.

Beckles thus called for an apology and the need for Britain to take responsibility for its crimes against humanity committed in the Caribbean.

Reparations should, he argued, be paid by the British state, its banks, merchant houses, insurances companies, and the Church of England, which all benefited directly from slavery.

Beckles, who chairs the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) Reparations Commission to pursue compensation from European nations for the Transatlantic slave trade, argued persuasively that the West Indies had been the “hub of the British Empire”, where most of its wealth was generated.

A 2004 estimate of the cost of the slave trade to the Caribbean arrived at a figure of £7.5 trillion. Beckles therefore urged slave-trading Britain, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, France, Denmark, and Sweden to pay reparations to Caribbean nations in order to repair this damage.

Eloquent advocate In the African context, Ade Ajayi was a member of the Organisation of African Unity’s (OAU) Eminent Persons Group on Reparations in 1992-1993, which demanded that the West recognise its moral debt to Africa and its diaspora for slavery and colonialism and pay these populations full monetary compensation.

Ajayi was, undoubtedly, one of the most eloquent continental advocates of reparations until his death in 2014. As he noted in 1993: “The crusade for reparation is … to seek to understand the African condition in-depth, to educate the African and the non-African about it, to seek an acknowledgement of wrongs which have impaired the political and socio-economic fabric of Africa, and, through restitution or reparation, to attempt to give Africa and Africans a fresh start.”

Ajayi noted that discussions about the contributions of the slave trade to the West’s industrialisation had been neglected and criticised the ambiguous or indifferent attitude of African scholars to this issue. He argued that a major motive of European colonial rule was to keep African labour in a cheap state akin to slavery, using methods perfected during two centuries of Caribbean colonialism. Ajayi thus called for four key measures to achieve reparations: domestic education and mobilisation in African societies; documentation and research on the costs of slavery and colonialism; making a cogent case for reparations; and agreeing on the strategy, manner, and mode of reparations, having placed the issue on the agenda of the United Nations.

Reparations are an emotive issue that all progressive activists across the globe should embrace. One cannot acknowledge the life-altering and destructive impact of five centuries of Western slavery and colonialism on Caribbean nationals, African-Americans, South Americans, and Africans without supporting the necessary measures to repair these glaring historical crimes against humanity.

Ade Ajahi is dead. Robinson is in his 70s and Beckles has gone past 60 years.

We need a few more good men and women to continue this noble fight for reparatory justice Much of this piece was adopted from a longer article written by Professor Adekeye Adebajo is director of the University of Johannesburg’s Institute for Global African Affairs in South Africa.

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

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ULPÊs governance is SVGÊs greatest weakness

economy and caused economic hardship. Poor households find it hard to adequately feed their paying jobs in our Fishing Industry families. In the best interest of our and very high rates of return on the economy and our country, i.e. to money invested.

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, protect the economy of SVG from falling deeper into the graveyard, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA very strongly Gonsalves should resign! contends that we have to move away Since 2001, our country has gone from the focus on tourism if we are to backwards: poverty has increased, pull down the high rates of unemployment has increased, unemployment. We need to get our education has fallen downwards, country into a knowledge-based agriculture has been devastated and economy that is export led. Prime many businesses have been forced to Minister Lee Kuan Yew did it in close.

Singapore. We can adopt the Gonsalves’ standard of governance Singapore model in SVG and move our country out of poverty and destitution is poor and the people of SVG are suffering as a consequence. He has into prosperity. failed to fulfil his obligation to the Gonsalves’ foolish economic people and the country in virtually policies, coupled with the lack of every way possible. SVG needs change. ability to competently manage the Time for the ULP regime to be voted public accounts, have mashed up the out of power.

THE ULP REGIME’S incompetence in unqualified to competently manage the governance is SVG’s greatest weakness Public Accounts and Finances. The since independence the country attained useless and hopeless ULP Regime has independence in 1979. The ULP regime not been able to produce a FISCAL is not measuring up to the standard that SURPLUS for one year. is required, and has failed to fulfil their In the ULP Regime’s 2020 Budget obligations to the people of our country. Estimates, they were forced to put in a The ULP Regime overshot the SVG very big Budget Support Loan of 2007 Budget by E$63 Million without EC$46,936,500. The Minister of prior approval of SVG House of Finance and Planning is unqualified in Assembly; killed The SVG National Public Accounts and Public Finance.

Commercial Bank in 2008 with a Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal deadly and foolish Bank Overdraft of very strongly contends that we need to EC$ 185 million dollars; and much urgently build a school of navigation in worse, failed the 1979 SVG SVG to train our young generation to Constitutionally Appointed Director of manage a High Seas Fishing Fleet in Audit’s audit for the years 2008, 2009 the Atlantic Ocean. This would and 2010 (Source SVG Director of support a Fishing and Canning Audit Reports; Research by Warrant Industry in SVG to create billions of Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (hons, dollars for the SVG Treasury, high MSc, MBA).

It is quite evident that the ULP Regime is grossly incompetent and outrageously useless in management of the SVG Public Accounts and Financial Resources. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, who spent three years full time at Oxford Brookes WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020 is has given us the competitive edge above University, England, reading celebrated under the theme “Tourism and other Caribbean destinations. Apart from for his BSc (Hons) in Rural Development”. As a multi Island stimulating economic growth, Tourism Accounting and Finance and destination made up of 32 Islands and and Rural Development continues to play Economics, very strongly cays, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is an integral part in the realization of the contends that the ULP endowed with many natural resources destination’s sustainability thrust.

Regime is useless at and heritage attributes, particularly in Moreover, it helps to preserve the managing SVG’s Public the rural areas of the country. The vast destination’s natural heritage, enables number of rural developments health and wellness, fosters social Finances. engagement and interaction between the The ULP Regime has been throughout the destination could be attributed to collaborative tourism private and public sector, and supports in power in SVG since 2001 planning and development. Further, this infrastructural development and and has shown that they are improvement in our communities.

Evidently, there are various tourism product offerings available that are accessible to locals and visitors in the rural communities throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. These product offerings are not limited to the fourteen (14) tourism sites and attractions managed by the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority which include therapeutic waterfalls, black and white sand beaches, rivers and parks. The development of these sites has provided job opportunities to a number of persons in some rural communities, which has ultimately improved the quality of life in these rural areas. Along with the National Park Rivers Beaches and Authority, the Ministry of Tourism works closely with six (6) active community groups. These groups are involved in the implementation of historic and cultural projects, cleanup activities, reforestation, and product development adding to the overall value of our destinations tourism offerings.

Tourism and Rural Development is encapsulated in the all year round electrifying festivals hosted in various communities around the islands such as the National Nine Mornings Festival, Greiggs Garifuna Festival, National Heroes

World Tourism Day -27/09/2020 Tourism and rural development and Heritage Day Festival, Rose Hall Cultural Festival and the Madungo Festival.

These festivals act as a livewire that network communities through social interaction, encourage the preservation of our national heritage and many traditional and indigenous foods.

Notably, there have been several infrastructural development initiatives in the rural communities that have offered the opportunity for economic growth through job creation and sustainable livelihood in construction, fishing and farming. In particular, the Argyle International Airport, several new brand hotel construction projects and the establishment of various new recreational sites, are examples that act as an economic driver for these communities.

Also, public and private sector partnerships is a main pillar that helps to shape and harness benefits to the communities; hence, this relationship contributes to the success of Tourism and Rural Development. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Distillers Ltd. is a prime example of how collaboration between the private sector and public sector can strengthen the Tourism Industry as they offer tour packages and support to the rural communities in different ways.

As we celebrate Tourism and Rural Development with pride, in this unprecedented season, we are reminded that together we are stronger, resilient and capable of overcoming the many challenges faced within the Tourism Industry. We are encouraged to stay positive in our attitude and action.

Furthermore, as we enjoy and ‘rediscover’ our beautiful 32 islands and cays, remember to adopt and follow the protocols provided by the Ministry of Tourism in conjunction with the Ministry of Health so that recovery could be seamless Hon. Cecil McKie Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 13.

News

YAC Women Artists Exhibition continues ONGOING UNTIL NOVEMBER 30 at the Youlou Art Centre (YAC), Indian Bay, is the art exhibition titled ‘Vincy Women Artists Now 2020’.

The exhibition, according to a release from the YAC, is “a conscious effort to focus on giving women artists an opportunity to show their work,” in response to the Centre’s acknowledgement of the “dilemma women artists face.”

Eleven women artists are featured in the exhibit.

They are Lila Roo, Eniya Kagbala, Amanda Frederick, Sharleen Branch, Zen Punnett, Leeandra Thompson, Daviana Basilio, Joy Celestine, Maureen Fauren, Kendra McNichol, and Ada Williams.

Joy Celestine

Joy is the mother of two young boys, and also looks after a stepson. She continues to make art at night when the children are asleep. She is able to make some money by making props for special events such as birthdays and weddings.

Her dream is to be an art teacher to help people express themselves, but she plans to continue painting to leave a legacy of her work for her children.

Joy has four paintings on show which express her thoughts and concerns about current issues facing the world — violence, abuse of people and animals, social justice, the pandemic and the environment.

also loves to sew, keeps a kitchen garden (peas and lettuce), and makes preserves (e.g. tamarind jam).

Ada shares what she makes with the rest of the world from her house in the harbor of Port Elizabeth, Bequia. There, her beautiful garden and art works are there to greet you right as you step off the ferry. (Source: YAC)

Ada Williams In speaking with Joy Celestine, one of the artists in the show, she revealed that through difficult times in life, her artmaking has sustained her and for that she is very grateful.

She said she realized from an early age she loved making things with her hands and doing artistic projects.

While at the Community College, she studied art with Ms. Vonnie Roudette and received a solid art education foundation. It was Ms. Roudette who, she said, encouraged and nurtured her artmaking and instilled in her students the importance of reading and doing research to produce art.

Ada Williams, another exhibitor, is a selftaught artist. At 79 she leads a very active life in Bequia, her place of abode.

She was born in Aruba and moved to Bequia when she was a little girl.

Her paintings are inspired by watching and responding to the world around her - the breadfruit tree in her yard, colorful flowers, houses and daily activities in her neck of the ‘A Cry for Help’ by Joy woods.

Celestine. (Photo She said painting and making things make Source: YAC) her happy, and keeps her energy good. She

‘Elephants Cry’ demonstrates the wide range of topics and expressions that are on show. (Photo Source: YAC)

V

14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Mavcom supports vulnerable groups THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC CONTINUES, and much attention is focused on persons infected or at risk of being infected by the virus. However, the social distancing protocol occasioned by the COVID19 pandemic and has since become a part of the daily rountine here, has negatively impacted groups with economic and social vulnerabilities, especially as it relates to accessing in person support services provided by the Ministry of National Mobilisation, Social Development, Family, Gender, Persons with Disabilities and Youth in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

La Fleur Quammie Co-ordinator of Gender Affairs in St. Vincent and the Grenadines indicated that her division realised the need for providing virtual access to critical services

such as psychosocial support, public sensitization and capacity building on issues surrounding Gender-Based Violence.

“These services are essential, and we needed to maintain uninterrupted access and delivery,” Quammie stated.

“Social distancing and the recent relocation of our offices required us to obtain technology and IT support that we had not previously budgeted for.

We could not afford to provide mediocre solutions, so we reached out to Mavcom for support” Quammie added.

In response, Mavcom — the authorized Lexmark Reseller and Service center in SVG - donated a MX521ade multifunction copier, scanner and printer.

“We are acutely aware

of the actual and potential collateral damage created by the pandemic, especially in countries such as ours, and Mavcom is honoured to be a part of such a critical intervention,” stated Paul Morris, Managing Director of Mavcom.

Mavcom is well known for its ongoing Corporate

Social Responsibility programme which generally supports education in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Gender Affairs Division of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, now located in the GECCU building obliquely opposite the First Caribbean International Bank, is

Paul Morris of Mavcom (Lexmark Reseller Service Center) hands over equipment to Mrs. Nerissa Gittens-McMillan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Mobilisation, Social Development etc., witnessed by Ms. La Fleur Quammie, Co-ordinator of Gender Affairs. the National Gender Machinery and the focal point for Gender

Equality in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

(Submitted by Mavcom)

Bursaries for Teacher Education Students THIRTY (30) STUDENTS AT THE St. Vincent & the Grenadines Community College’s (SVGCC) Division of Teacher Education (DTE) are now better positioned to complete their final year studies at the institution, after receiving bursaries, compliments the Mustique Charitable Foundation (MCF).

The bursaries have a combined value of XCD $127,665.04, and will go towards covering 80% of the cost of transportation, food, school/administrative fees, and teaching practicum materials for recipients.

Dularie Malcolm, Project Director — Mustique Charitable Foundation, reminded students of the honourable nature of their chosen profession, and reiterated the importance of teachers as they

impact hundreds of lives through their classrooms.

Director of the SVGCC, Nigel Scott, expressed his gratitude to the Mustique Charitable Foundation, and reminded the DTE students of the opportunity they have to “touch the future”. Scott acknowledged that the College’s relationship with the MCF also includes the foundation assisting other divisions at the SVGCC. Dean of the Division of Teacher Education, Dr. Harriette DaSilva, in her remarks, highlighted that since the first issue of the bursaries in 2017, the number of recipients have tripled.

The handover ceremony took place at the College’s Villa Campus on Thursday 24th September 2020. (Submitted by SVGCC)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 15.

CXC

RegionÊs knee on CXCÊs neck CXC, since only three students had lodged complaints.

As for Barbados, where CXC is headquartered, Minister of Education Santia Bradshaw called on CXC to urgently investigate concerns raised by teachers, parents and students regarding the July 2020 CSEC and CAPE results.

LoopNewsBarbados quoted the minister as saying, “The disquiet among students who recently received the Caribbean Examinations Council’s CAPE and CSEC examinations, is definitely cause for concern. I am of the view Grenada, Barbados, that an urgent Antigua, St. Lucia investigation must be carried out by CXC into In the case of this matter to Grenada, the Grenada preserve the integrity of NOW newspaper the examinations.” reported last week that Meanwhile, close to some CAPE results were 1,000 people in Barbados returned ungraded, but signed a petition on later in the week, the Change.org in less than indication was that four hours, to demand territory was not going to that CXC reviews the join in the queries to AS OF MONDAY THIS WEEK, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, St Lucia, Grenada, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago had all voiced concerns following the release of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) CSEC and CAPE exams results this week.

It was uncertain whether this country had done likewise though, there were strong reactions by students, teachers and parents that some of the grades did not reflect the performances of students leading up to the exams.

meanwhile, indicated that that country’s Education Ministry confirmed that many students had received what they labelled as “inaccurate” results.

Several results also came back “ungraded” or “absent”.

Jamaica’s Education Minister Fayval Williams had also taken umbrage with the Council (CXC) about the circumstances that led to results being sent directly to students before schools and the ministry, thereby preventing her ministry from identifying, in advance, anomalies or errors in results, the Jamaica Observer reported.

Guyana seemed to have taken the concern about the anomalies a step further when, according to the Guyana Chronicle, authorities at that country’s top Jamaica, Guyana, secondary school, Queen’s College, said Trinidad and Tobago they will petition Reports from Jamaica, Guyana’s Education July 2020 Examination results.

And the Antigua Observer reported that initially a “small group of Educators” on Antigua and Barbuda, had given support to this petition which, according to the said report, had by Thursday of last week attracted some 14,000 signatures.

Like Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda had claimed that CXC had made mistakes with regard to the graded results that were released last week Tuesday via the CXC portal.

In St. Lucia, where there were similar concerns about the grading system used by CXC, an online petition that was started there had already begun to garner support by week’s end.

Ministry to remove Guyana from participating in future CSEC exams.

This after the school had given indication that it intended to file an injunction at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), seeking to block the official declaration of the results, if CXC does not review the grades.

Meanwhile, the Trinidad Guardian reported that Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby- Dolly had dispatched a letter to the management of the CXC, “outlining recent

concerns raised about inconsistencies with students’ CAPE and CSEC results.”

According to GadsbyDolly, CXC can expect to receive more feedback which is currently being collected and compiled from school officials, who queried the grading scheme used and grades allocated to hundreds of students as well as how the School-Based Assessments were marked. (Sources: CMC, Barbados Today, Grenada NOW, Guyana Chronicle, Jamaica Guardian, Antigua Observer, Trinidad Guardian)

CXC agrees to a review AN INDEPENDENT REVIEW team will begin soonest to examine concerns surrounding the results of this year’s regional examinations.

Professor Hilary Beckles, the Chairman of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), made the disclosure last Monday.

This action follows widespread regional protestations from parents, students, teachers, school administrators, and Ministries of Education about examination grades.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Education described the situation as one of “widespread distress.”

In his statement on Monday, Professor Beckles referenced a virtual meeting that was held Friday 25th September, between Dr. Wayne Wesley, CXC Registrar /CEO and six Ministers of Education from the region.

The CXC official was reported to have given every assurance that matters advanced by Ministers for further investigation at the schoollevel, will be dealt with expeditiously.

As such, therefore, Education Ministries will now compile all such matters/complaints as submitted to them by principals, and advance those to the Local CXC Registrar for transmission to CXC. The Ministries of Education were

also expected to formalize (in writing) a request for CXC to provide specific information regarding the School-Based Assessment (SBA) moderation process, and results of same, and the methodology used to calculate the final grades of students.

Both parties — Education Ministries and CXC — recognized that these matters required “much more elucidation,” not to mention Professor Hilary Beckles, Chairman of that they form the basis for CXC, brought what seemed to be heading much of the protestation and for a standoff between CXC and region’s speculation across the region Dr. Wayne Wesley, CXC Registrar, had Ministries of Education, to a point of that has brought the integrity initially aroused a strong rebuttal from mutual understanding. of the exams into focus. the region’s people, especially students.

The outcome of that applied.” meeting and Dr. Beckles’ ongoing threat of the coronavirus The CXC Chairman reminded that, announcement about a full review (Covid-19) pandemic. “…concerns raised in the public appeared to be a reversal from an domain with respect to the efficacy of initial position articulated by Dr. And Professor Beckles, against this procedures and systems used by the Wesley, who gave no commitment to a backdrop, said that, “It was Caribbean Examinations Council in its review of all the grades awarded in anticipated that given these specific computation and declaration of this year’s exams. challenges (re Covid-19) a period of student performance data, are of great Wesley had also declared that he review and possible revisions would importance to the organization,” felt the reports of discrepancies follow, consistent with the regulations appearing in the process to be regarding grades had been “greatly of the Council.” addressing the view that the fallout exaggerated.”

He gave the added assurance that, had brought the integrity of the CSEC and CAPE students sat the Council into question. (Source: 2020 examinations in July this year, a “Each and every formally reported case will be reviewed and where LOOPNewsjamaica, Trinidad shift from the usual May-June remedies are required, they will be Guardian) schedule. This was occasioned by the

V

16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

ÂMama JacqÊs: Top Vincy restaurant in London

A VINCENTIAN FAMILYOWNED RESTAURANT based at Boxpark Wembley, has been ranked number five, among the top ten Caribbean restaurants in London.

Named ‘Mama Jacq’s’ and owned and operated

by Vincentian Jacqueline ‘Mama Jacq’ Codougan and family, the restaurant was recently featured among the top 10 Caribbean restaurants in Condé Nast Traveler’s magazine, a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine that has won 25 National Magazine Awards.

The establishment is run by three family members: Jacqueline herself who is overall in charge; daughter Chantal Codougan who, in addition to culinary tasks, attends to product design and branding; and son Dominic Allen Codougan who takes charge of advertising and promotion, and uses his skills as a professional chef to help create ‘Mama Jacq’s’ delicious sauce and marinade

recipes.

In an interview with THE VINCENTIAN, Jacqueline said, considering that her business is relatively new — a year or so old — “It’s a great achievement for us to be counted among the best. To actually come up against the entire Caribbean restaurant fraternity in London and we Curry goat anyone? The could place number menu topper at Mama five on the top ten Jacq’s. list, it’s an amazing content,” she added. achievement.”

Jacqueline recognized She was particularly moved that the business that it is a rare thing to was featured in such a find a Vincentian restaurant in London, prestigious magazine and that she and her Condé Nast Traveler’s family were pleased to magazine, - and acknowledged that it was represent SVG. “We are great publicity for her really proud,” she quipped. restaurant and brand.

And as for what sets “The business can now be found on Tripadvisor, ‘Mama Jacq’s’ apart from other restaurants, which is among the Jacqueline’s response world’s largest travel was, “Our good service platforms that assists customers in gathering and delicious food.” travel information, She singled out the posting reviews and boneless curry goat as opinions of travel-related her menu topper, saying,

Proud owner and founder of ‘Mama Jacq’s’ Jacqueline Codougan (left) with her co-operators son Dominic (centre) and daughter Chantal.

RIght: Customers are not confined to ethnic West Indians.

“Everybody just finds it amazing,” and noted also that her special Caribbean Stew Salmon savour the culinary is “doing very well.” delicacies at the Persons who come to Vincentian-owned business can also purchase from a range of ‘Mama Jacq’s’ authentic products. These include Mama Jacq’s green seasoning, hot sauce, marinade mild jerk seasoning and hot jerk seasoning.

‘Mama Jacq’s’ also caters to corporate events, weddings, parties and ‘wakes’.

“The opportunities

have been so endless and we are very happy,” Jacqueline admitted.

According to the Condé Nast Traveler’s magazine, a new generation of persons of Caribbean heritage is delving deeper into their culinary heritage, and curating a full Caribbean dining experience while paying tribute to their history.

‘Mama Jacq’s’ stands firmly among this new wave. (KH)

The Codougans (from left) Jacqueline, Chantal and Dominic getting ready to serve up their ‘niceties’.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 17.

V

18. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Former Education Minister Dennie passes THE VINCENTIAN Monday night that “those who knew my dad knew that he was very straight forward.

“He had such a passion for Alphonso Alpheus Dennie passed away knowledge and learning, which he on Sept. 22. He was 92.

Remembering a father was so eager to share with his friends and family.

DENNIS – A FORMER ST. VINCENT and “What I remember most about my “And, as a result of these passions, the Grenadines Education Minister, who, father was his passion for success and he became one of the most successful in 1972, successfully contested the excellence,” Roslyn said. “He believed teachers on the island,” he added.

North Leeward constituency for the then that a sound education would provide “He had a strong belief that a mind is People’s Political Party (PPP), led by late the skills and motivation for success in a terrible thing to waste.”

Chief Minister Ebenezer Theodore life.

Trevor said he recalled “seeing Joshua, becoming a Member of the “He always encouraged his children the joy” in his dad’s eyes when he House of Assembly, served as principals to follow their dreams and never give spoke about the successes of his at several elementary schools in the up until our dreams were achieved,” students. country, and taught secondary schools in she added. “Dad loved Shakespeare “He enjoyed every school subject Barbados. and would often quote Shakespeare for and would always recite passages Roslyn Dennie — Mr. Dennie’s third us as motivation. from poetry and literature,” he said. daughter, a New Jersey resident - told “One of his favorite Shakespeare “He loved poems, like ‘If” by Rudyard THE VINCENTIAN Monday night quotes was ‘The heights by great men Kipling, and poets, like Henry that her father died of natural causes reached and kept were not attained by Wadsworth and H. W. Longfellow’s. at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital sudden flight, but they while their “And, as I say goodbye to my in Kingstown companions slept, were toiling father, I am reminded of a speech in Although Dennie lived, during his upwards in the night’”, Roslyn Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar that he retirement years, in Sion Hill Bay, continued. would say from time to time: ‘When Roslyn said the family will honour her Trevor Dennie, Dennie’s second son beggars die there are no comets seen. father’s wish to be interred in and third child, who resides in The heavens themselves blaze forth Troumaca, in North Leeward, where Allentown, Pennsylvania, also told the deaths of princes’”, Trevor added.

Dennie’s second child and first son, Olin Dennie — a prominent lawyer in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who had unsuccessfully contested the North Leeward seat — died on Sept. 1, 2016 in New York. He was 63.

Olin’s mother and Mr. Dennie’s wife, Stella Dennie, née Cottle, predeceased them, on Mar. 18, 2012, after a prolonged illness in Brooklyn.

She was 82.

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

he was born, grew up, and attended and taught elementary school.

A date for the funeral service and interment is yet to be finalized.

“instrumental in achieving various scholarships in every school.”

Foray into politics

Roslyn recalled that her father made his foray into politics in 1967, unsuccessfully contesting the North Leeward seat for the PPP. Having departed the teaching profession to become an active politician, he went on, after his defeat, to manage the Oil Factory in Arnos Vale.

But, with politics in his vein, in 1972, Dennie again contested the North Leeward seat for the PPP with success, beating the then St. Vincent Labor Party’s (SVLP) John Thompson and becoming Education Minister for Teacher extraordinaire two years and eight months, in the Roslyn said her father was born on short-lived Joshua-James Mitchell administration.

May 16, 1928 to Arthur Alexander The alliance ended on Sept. 18, Dennie and Margaret Dennie, of 1974, when the House of Assembly Troumaca.

The 4th of eight children, Alphonso passed a vote of “no confidence” in the government after Joshua and his wife, Dennie attended the Troumaca Ivy Joshua, resigned from the Government school, where he government “following a disagreement subsequently taught as a with Premier Mitchell over policy supernumerary teacher.

At 22, Roslyn said Dennie became issues,” according to an assistant head teacher and was Caribbeanelections.com. transferred to Union Island in the Parliament was subsequently Southern Grenadines. dissolved on Sept. 23, 1974 and Dennie After a brief stay in Union Island, contested the 1974 general elections she said Dennie returned to for Mitchell’s newly-formed New Troumaca Government School as the Democratic Party (NDP). He lost to head teacher. the SVLP’s Thompson in North In 1950, Dennie married his Leeward. childhood sweetheart, Stella, with the In 1975, Roslyn said Dennie moved union producing seven children. with his family to Barbados, where he Besides Troumaca and became a restaurant owner and taught Chateaubelair Methodist School, at several high schools, including Roslyn said her father taught as Coleridge and Parry. several elementary schools in North He later returned to St. Vincent and Leeward, as well as at Gomea and the Grenadines, when Mitchell’s NDP Georgetown, where he was head was returned to government and was teacher at the Georgetown appointed Chairman of the St. Vincent Government School.

Electricity Services, Ltd. — VINLEC. In 1962, he was again transferred Roslyn said her dad also served as to Union Island as head teacher and manager of the Philatelic Bureau when he left that Grenadine island in 1967, he attended Erdiston Teachers before retiring in 2001 at 73.

“His can-do attitude towards life Training College in Barbados for two instilled a sense of pride and selfyears. esteem, which prepared me for life in Throughout his teaching career, America as a Black woman,” she said.

Roslyn said, Dennie was

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 19.

V Listen to your friend 20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Dear George,

IS ANYTHING WRONG with accepting a job in exchange for 10 minutes of sex?

The reason I am asking is I am 19 years old, don’t have a boyfriend and I have been searching desperately for my first job.

This particular individual is offering me a job at his company in exchange for what he described as “10 minutes of sex”.

What can be so wrong about that? My girlfriend told me it is a foolish thing to do, but I think she is just jealous of me getting a better job than her.

Don't I have the right to choose who I have sex with and for what purpose? I want to see what she will say when I get the job and start living large, while she is still earning pennies.

The right to choose Dear Right to choose, Yes, you have the right to choose with whom you have sex.

However, getting a job offer in exchange for sex does not speak to your ability or qualifications for the job in question.

By accepting this offer, you would have made a magnified statement about your moral standards and dignity.

You risk being disrespected and treated accordingly, all because the basis of your

employment has everything to do with satisfying someone’s sexual appetite, who will get rid of you when that desire has phased.

Know and appreciate your true value. Listen to your friend. It would

appear she has your best interest at heart. This is the right time to say, thanks but no thanks.

George

In ‘two minds’ Dear George, AFTER 20 YEARS OF MARRIAGE, I have proof that my wife was involved sexually with a long time school mate of hers. I confronted her and her response gave me the shock of my life.

She told me: she got tired of the same thing for 20 years; she wanted a fresh experience; there was no way she was giving up such a pleasurable "side kick”; and that I can either live with it or take a walk.

George, presently one mind is telling me to deal with her and this guy, and another mind is telling me to just deal with her in such a way that another man would not look on her.

I need to clear my head. What advice can you give me?

In a daze Dear In a daze, You need to see a counsellor immediately to help you clear your thoughts. At the moment your thoughts are disorganized and you will be easily tempted to listen to the wrong voice.

Counselling will help you to retrace your marital steps and give you and your partner the opportunity to reconnect in a way that would spark your marriage back to life. Suggest to your wife to accompany you to the counselling sessions.

Whether or not she agrees to go, you should still attend so you can be guided on how handle the situation.

A violent response is an emotional and weak response, and should be avoided at all cost.

Violence has never solved a problem before and it won't now.

George

‘Kiss and make up’ Dear George,

am completely innocent.

I cannot get my wife to ignore this note and move on. This happened in January of this year, and today the marriage is not far away from breaking up.

I need to save my marriage and I cannot let my ex win this time around. This woman has vowed to destroy me after I dumped her for two timing me

ON MY WEDDING DAY as my wife and I were exiting the church, my ex was standing at the end of a pew and as we passed her, she slipped a note into my hand. I put it into my pants pocket.

The next day, my wife found the note, read it and was convinced immediately that I was still seeing my ex.

George, I have done Worried and vex some terrible things in life, but this is one time I

Dear Worried and vex,

There can be no marriage if there is no trust. Your wife needs to know and trust the man she has married. Your wife needs to refocus and understand that she is the new and only kid on the block, and celebrate that for what it is.

Get the TRUST question settled between you and your wife, and there will be no more discussion about your ex.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Controversial subjects should be avoided at all costs. Your concern with older family members and those less fortunate than yourself will only add to your attractiveness.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You may cause a fuss if you come on too strongly in public. Changes in your home will be positive. Property investments should payoff. It might be best to keep your ideas to yourself this week.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Some relatives will be extremely perplexing. Delve into your work if you can't make amends at home.You will be able to pick up on future trends if you keep your eyes peeled for unique ideas.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can make progress professionally.

You can make the most headway if you put in some overtime. You can make extra cash if you act on a hunch. It may be a disappointing day emotionally.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Tie up your personal papers or push to have legal settlements completed. It might be best to work on your own; if possible, do your job out of your home this week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Be sure you get accurate information.

You will not impress others by being foolishly generous. You probably aren't getting straight answers to your questions.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Travel will be favorable and bring you the greatest rewards. You will tend to overeat this week. Use your ingenuity to manipulate things to get what you want.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You need to take some time out to decide what you want to do. This is a turning point. Think about starting your own small business, Travel may be confusing.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may be emotional and quick to judge others. Don't be afraid to lay your cards on the table. Tempers will mount if you're too pushy at work or at home. Get involved in the activities of children.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) There may be opportunities to attend social functions that are linked to work.

You need to get out if you want to meet potential partners. Don't let your work and your personal life interfere with each other.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. Visit friends or relatives you rarely see. Remain calm and you'll shine.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) This will not be the best day to try to push your ideas or concerns. Put your thoughts into some trendy new ideas.

Make changes that will enhance your appearance.

ACROSS 1. Sauce seasoning 5. Rejuvenating resort 8. Skidded 12. Opera number 13. Pull hard 14. School helper 15. Drains (energy) 16. Mimic 17. Fanciful story 18. Pronounce 20. Not as far 22. Collar points 25. Humorous Aykroyd 26. Ascend 27. Hydrogen or oxygen 28. Sitcom veteran Arthur 31. Crooner Torme 32. Sunday dinner meat 34. Dusting cloth 35. Buddy 36. Bathing place 37. Obliterate 39. Allow 40. Marked (test papers) 41 Fiery horses 44. Tiny soldier 45. Molten rock 46. Trellis plant 48. Feline warning 52. Work animals 53. Gaming cube 54. A Great Lake 55. Grain boxes 56. Musical skill 57. rave wildly DOWN

1. Owns 2. Notable stretch 3. Slash 4. Low voices 5. Lingers 6. Young seal 7. Meeting plans 8. Chief demon 9. She fibs 10. Unengaged 11. Forest dweller 19. Cautioned 21. _ Standard Time 22. Desk light 23. District 24. Medicine dose 27. Chat 28. Slender nail

29. Edge (in) 30. Matured 33. Exterior 38. More willingly 39. Inclines 40. Less sullen 41. Untidy person

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 21.

42. Depot car 43. 50-50 47. _ airmail 49. Lyricist Gershwin 50. Act immorally 51. Fix (a date)

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22. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Join the Waste-to-Art Competition SEABIRDS ARE AN ICONIC PART OF The culture and livelihoods of our people; what better way to demonstrate this value than through art? The organization Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) is hosting an online art competition which repurposes waste materials under the theme “Amazing Seabirds: Our Birds,

Our Islands, Our Future.” Open to residents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada, this contest is aimed at highlighting the value of seabirds and demonstrating ways that we can help to save them. Participants are invited to create unique artwork from repurposed materials, either litter from the environment or household waste, while beautifying our environment and protecting wildlife by picking up litter.

Seabirds are masters of the marine environment, feeding both at the ocean’s surface and below. For centuries, seabirds have helped us to understand weather and guided fisherfolk to schools of fish and back to land. Seabirds are also important for showing us if our oceans are healthy. Reefs grow faster near their nesting sites due to the nutrients from their guano. Despite these benefits, the existence of many of our seabird species is being threatened by our activities.

Worldwide, seabirds are among the most threatened birds. In the Grenadines, threats to seabirds include illegal harvesting of adults and their chicks and eggs, burning and other destruction of nest sites, and invasive animals such as rats, mongoose and goats that may either eat eggs and birds or trample nests. Of particular concern are the effects of marine litter, often originating from the land. Marine litter, namely plastics, is a globally recognized threat to all marine life. For our seabirds, they may either ingest this pollution or become entangled in it, causing injury and even death. Debris that is found on beaches also affects how much nesting space is available, forcing adults to nest among dangerous debris or abandon nesting altogether.

Sometimes, seabirds even collect these items to construct their nests. Seabirds often mistake plastics for food — feeding on it themselves or giving it to their chicks who may eventually die from suffocation and starvation. Even one piece of ingested plastic can prove deadly for a seabird. It is predicted that 99% of all seabird species will ingest marine debris by 20501.

Artists young and old are encouraged to make a statement against this wave of pollution affecting our seabirds by creating a unique art piece from repurposed waste. Safety is important, participants are urged to use gloves and other protective gear when handling waste. No marine life must be collected or included in artwork but fasteners and adhesives are permitted. There is no limitation on project size. Group work is permitted but will be counted as one entry. Entries will be judged in four categories: (1) Primary schools, (2) Secondary schools, (3) Tertiary schools and (4) Adults (18+).

Cash prizes will be offered to the top two winners in each category with a grand prize of USD $250.

Photos of entries, along with a written or video description of the artwork and materials used, must be submitted by email to artcontest@epicislands.org or WhatsApp at 1 (784) 431-6447 no later than 4:00 p.m. on 1st November 2020. Winning submissions may be used by EPIC for future outreach work. Visit http://epicislands.org/grenadines-waste-to-art.html for contest rules and contact lculzac@epicislands.org for further information and questions.

This competition is made possible with funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Cape Bird Club, and donors to Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 23.

National T20 moves into Quarterfinals The DSLLMCT bowlers must have prayed for rain as they were plummelled by Parnel Browne Parnel Browne, who blasted a tore the 54-ball 123 runs innings, to DSLLMCT pace Police One to 279 for 3 in bowlers asunder 20 overs. Browne recorded on his way to a nine sixes and eleven fours in scintillating 123. his innings and shared a 3rd wicket stand of 165 with the ever reliable Gosnel Cupid who hit 84.

In pursuit of the highest victory target set for the season, DSLLMCT were decimated. They managed 49 in 10.3 overs. Elmore Alexander bagged 3 for 6 and Reiford Jack 2 for 12 for Police One. THE QUARTERFINALISTS in this Radcliffe having already Pollard Investment North year’s NLA/Neil Williams secured quarterfinal berths.

Windward recorded double National T20 Cricket However, only three of wins to secure their Competition have been decided. those matches were played to quarterfinals place. They first They are: Guardian General completion, with rain playing beat Victors Two by four Saints, FLOW Rivals, Victors havoc with the rest of the wickets at the Arnos Vale One, Police One, FLOW fixtures.

Playing Field. Victors Two Radcliffe, Police Two, CJ In one of the matches batsmen accounted for 72 in MSDA Julius Anthony played, Police One tore the 16 overs, with Denis Byam top Northern Stars and Pollard hook, line and sinker of scoring with 25. Sealron Investments North Windward. Dominic Sutherland Lloyd Williams and Dean Browne Last weekend round of Lewis Memorial Cricket Team, bagged 3/12 for and 2/20 eight matches would have beating them by a whopping respectively. North Windward decided the remaining five 230 runs, at Sion Hill Playing responded with 75 for 6 from places, Saints, Rivals and Field 13 overs. Desroy Lavia led

Gosnel Cupid hit a vital 84 for Police One. 58. Maxwell Edwards took 3 for 13 while Jade Matthews 2 for 14.

Shem Browne was yet again The only other match to among the runs, hitting a have seen some action was half century for North FLOW Rivals versus Windward.

DSLLMCT at Park Hill.

Reduced to 10 overs a side, with 25 while Kishore Shallow DSLLMCT were 52 for 2 in 9 overs when play ended due to took 3 for 28. rain.

North Windward’s second There was no play possible victory came at the Sion Hill in the following matches: Playing Field, where they Victors One versus Strike defeated CJ MSDA Julius Eagles, Police Two against Anthony Northern Stars by 3 Keegan’s Bequia XI, and wickets. Reduced to 11 overs FLOW Radcliffe against per innings, Northern Stars held steady for 97 for 3 led by Victors Two. Each team was awarded one point.

Jade Matthews 44. North Windward lost 7 wickets I.B.A.ALLEN before getting to 98 in 10.4 overs. Shem Browne led with

NEFL restricted to an Inter- Village Competition THE HAIROUN BEER North East Football League, because of the limited time on offer during which to run its 2020 edition, has been restricted to an Inter-Village Competition, only.

This sees only twelve villages, stashed into three groups, competing for honours.

Group A comprises Owia, Richland Park, Dickson and South Union. Chapmans, Spring Village, Brownstown and Biabou, making up Group B. Group C features Grieggs, Diamonds, North Union and Overland.

Last weekend hosted four matches as the competition went full throttle.

Coming out victorious were Greiggs, South Union, Overland and Brownstown.

Greiggs outplayed Diamonds, 3-0, goals coming from Anthony Rodney, Valdo Anderson, and Osei Delpesche.

South Union came out with a 4-1 triumph over Dickson. Kristan Gonsalves and Dorian Dallaway both had braces for the winners.

It was a closer scoreline when Overland met North Union, with the former emerging victorious, 4-3.

North Union, through Adamo Miller, who netted twice, and Atticus Enville scored the other, had given their team a 30 cushion. However, Overland stormed back through a double strike from Kelrick Nanton and one each from Jeel Da Souza and Kemron Osment, sealed a come from behind win for Overland.

Brownstown then

added to Spring Village’s woes, beating them by 21. Philemon Walker and Kadeem Duncan registered for Brownstown, while Alex Adams scored for Spring Village.

This was Spring Village’s second defeat, as they were beaten 3-1

by Chapmans in their opening fixture. Terris Joseph, Shaville Barker and Kimron Cruickshank scored for Chapmans.

Mikey Gaymes scored the consolation for Spring Village.

And, getting off the mark as well was Owia, who edged out Richland Park, 4-3.

Owia’s goals came from Javis Hoyte, who blasted a hat trick and Jevorn Williams had the other. Amein John, Diandre Smith and Malik Castello, scored for Richland Park.

Otashie SpringPresident of the NEFL. one day Female Football Challenge and a one day Grassroots Youth Action between Chapmans and Spring Village.

Challenge, in order to give the females and the Spring reiterated the President of the North youngsters a time to league’s adherence to the East Football League“showcase”, their talents. directives of the Otashie Spring noted Spring disclosed that Executive of the St that this year’s league his organisation is Vincent and the had to be scaled down planning to complete because of the Grenadines Football their programme in time Federation (SVGFF).

“September, October” before the start of the He disclosed that window given by SVGFF’s National Club community leagues to despite the small Championships. window, they will host a operate.

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24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Footballers to receive FIFA relief $$$ Carl Dickson, President of the SVG Football Federation, outlining the parameters of the FIFA Covid Relief Package.

Female footballers, like the U20’s seen here in a training session, are to benefit both directly and developmentally from the FIFA Covid Relief Package.

MALE AND FEMALE footballers here are to benefit directly from the Covid Relief Package of FIFA - football’s world governing body - that has been made available to the SVG Football Federation (SVGFF).

Speaking at the Sion Hill Playing Field at a recent training session for female footballers, Carl Dickson, President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation, gave this assurance and said further, “The SVGFF is pleased to announce the first phase roll out of the Covid Relief Package to the stakeholders in St Vincent and the Grenadines.”

According to Dickson, the SVGFF has received to date US$1, 000,000.00 (US$1m) of which US$500,000 is designated exclusively for female football development.

“The current rollout is specific to the remaining US$500,000, which will see assistance being given to our 56 affiliates entities, comprised primarily of clubs, leagues, referees and match officials,” Dickson said.

He added, “We have taken the decision to provide much

needed assistance to our team players. Total associate leagues and national disbursements in this phase

amount to approximately US$400,000 or 80% of available funding. The remaining US$100,000 has been set aside primarily to procure essential equipment, upgrade playing environs and to engage and adhere to health protocols necessary to create a bio safe environment for our future footballing engagements locally, regionally and internationally.”

Dickson explained further that the SVGFF is providing assistance to national team players (180) of all age groups and gender, and hastened to remind “that the second phase

of funding (US$500,000) is expected in January 2021, of which you will also be the primary beneficiaries as we navigate the current pandemic.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

Blossoms Academy flourishing

Players of the Academy in a training exercise.

She made this known in a recent interview with THE VINCENIAN. She was particularly pleased with the response of the members/players despite the challenges posed by Covid19 pandemic.

“I am really satisfied with the interest shown by the players. They were anxious even with the Covid Some members of the Academy. situation… they kept asking, ‘When are we going to start?’, and when we did AFIYA JOHN, THE specialist Under-13 after putting all the health protocols in coach of the Blossoms Unlimited Football Academy, is satisfied with the progress of place, they were ready, and from there members/players over the five years that things went smoothly,” John detailed.

A national female player herself, John the Academy has been in existence.

disclosed that while training is ongoing, the immediate objective is to obtain a club license.

This, she pointed out, would allow the Academy to participate in the Afiya John – Unational Under-13, 13 coach of the 16,17 and 19 female Blossoms competitions and in Unlimited the First Division for Football males, held under the Academy. auspices of the SVG Football Federation.

In addition to imparting knowledge of and skills involved in football, and recognizing the football talent that is already beginning to come to the fore, ST VINCENT AND THE Grenadines’ senior Bermuda. showdown. the Academy is committed to building a men’s team football team -Vincy Heat Should St Vincent and the The three second round winners climate of “unity, love and respect for will face Haiti next July, in the USA, in Grenadines overcome Haiti in the will head to the Gold Cup, where they each other,” John said, adding that to the CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifiers.

First Round, they will meet the will join, Mexico, USA, Honduras, date there has been a pleasant This was made known last Monday winner of the Barbados versus Jamaica, Costa Rica, Grenada, atmosphere that pervades the sessions. night when the draw took place in Bermuda encounter.

Panama, Suriname, El Salvador, In addition to John, the Academy is Miami, USA. Similarly, the winners of the served by coaches Xavol Jams, Shandel Martinique, Curacao, Canada and The rest of the first round draw, Guyana against Guatemala match up Qatar.

Cyrus, Samantha Carrington and which is set for 2nd to 6th July, 2021, takes on the winner of the St Vincent and the Grenadines was Kayren Browne and Head Coach pits Guyana against Guatemala; Guadeloupe against Bahamas, with Jasmine Browne, national football coach forced to be involved in the Gold Cup Trinidad and Tobago faces the winner of the Trinidad and and former senor national female Qualifiers, following their second Montserrat; Cuba engages French Tobago versus Montserrat duel facing football team captain. place to Surinam in Group D of Tier Guiana; Guadeloupe entertains off with the team that emerges from B of the CONCACAF Nations League.

Bahamas, and Barbados takes on the Cuba versus French Guiana I.B.A.ALLEN

SVG faces Haiti in Gold Cup Qualifier

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 25.

Sports

Overcoming the obstacle IT SEEMS LIKE A GRADUAL RETURN to normalcy is going on.

That is according to the number of sporting activities that are springing up. But there is a noticeable difference in the staging of these activities. There is a drop in crowd attendance, for the need to distance is necessary.

Adjustments are continuing to various sporting elements which had become part of the calendar.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines finds its in direct clash with Haiti to advance to the Gold Cup. The Vincentian squad will have to raise to the occasion and make the best of the opportunity they have found themselves in.

Qualifications towards the World Cup scheduled for Qatar in two years, will assume a different format.

Staging of football games will jolt organisers into some sense of the new reality.

Supporters will be forced to reduce their attendance to games owing to the protocols that will be in place.

Those who control television rights might find themselves in with new scenarios.

Innovative packaging has become operative, for there is the situation that crowd attendances will be risky.

Players will admit that without the fans on the ground, the atmosphere is different.

That will test the resolve of the true professional. They can’t be influenced by the adjacent conditions.

They will have to look at the bigger picture.

And that entails digging deep and maintaining a level of concentration for the duration of the exercise.

The reopening of schools is an

opportunity to test the level of readiness of our athletes. There is a tendency of devaluing the importance of sport.

Some parents encourage it, in their quest to ensure their children attend to their school work. The pundits will say that there must be a balance of sporting and academics.

It pays immeasurably on the individual. If, however, some sporting personialites have natural traits, there must be ways of ironing out chinks and ensuring a blend ensues.

Those responsible for running sports must analyse find ways of carrying out their functions.

Associations who can assist members have to be commended. The local Football Federation has announced their programme will be a relief to players.

With their toils rewarded, that will be reason for them to carry on.

If reduction of the threat continues, there will be need to fill the void left by the inactivity. There must be continued caution that one must not go head on into events which can reactivate any threat.

Dangerous and deadly as Covid 19 can be, Dengue fever has surfaced with a whirr which has made Covid look like an insignificant factor.

Whereas Covid may not have been devastating as far as St. Vincent and the Grenadines is concerned, there are aspects of the economic decline that the world faces.

Overcoming that obstacle is the challenge that everyone has to contend with.

Third century in Belair cricket Salem George of Hard Hitters helped himself to a swashbuckling century (128) against a hapless Stag Older Boys.

SINCE THE hampered by rain, D’s hard work of their commencement of the Blocks &Trucking Gomea replay and lost 7 National Lotteries Bombers defeated wickets in getting Authority TBPO T20 Fairbaine Chennai to 80 in 17.2 overs.

Softball Cricket Strikers by 3 wickets.

Bowling for Competition about a Fairbane Chennai Chennai Strikers, month ago, three strikers batted first and Nickie Antoinne centuries have been made 77 all out in 15.3 snatched 2 for 7 were rained out. As a recorded which, according overs. Gomea Bombers’ and Jimmy Providence 2 result, all teams were to some regular Raymond Sayers took 3 for 17. awarded equal points. spectators, shows that the for 9 and Allen Williams All the other games batsmen are dominating.

3 for 13. Bombers made scheduled for Sunday I.B.A.ALLEN This might or might not be the case, but it takes nothing away from Salem George who was responsible for the third century.

George, last Saturday at the Daphne Playing Field TEAM where all the matches ATHLETICS are played, blasted 128 SVG will from during which he took 3pm this an unbelievable 29 Sunday, stage balls to reach 100, to the 2020 edition ensure that his team, of the Round D Hard Hitters, Town Road demolished Stag Older Relay.

Primary Schoools’ Winning The Central Leeward Boys by 108 runs.

The Relay Unit- Fitz Hughes Secondary School quarter In a match reduced will see each of Government School. that trumped last year to 17 overs, Hard the four legs Hitters batted first making one lap Taking the Male segment of the and made 203 for 6 in around captial Kingstown, starting and Open Category was the powerful their allotment of finishing on Halifax Street, in the Chatoyer team, with IT- DAT Academy overs. In addition to vicinity of the First Caribbean running away with the Females.

George, Niko Robinson International Bank.

In Sunday’s event, cash prizes will was among the runs However, the Primary Schools’ be awarded to the top three finishers in with 30. Bowling for participants will turn on to Higginson each of the categories.

Older Boys, Rohan Street, and the other categories of The first places in the Primary King took 2 for 26, and athletes, Secondary and Open will do so Schools’ bracket get $300, the second Wayne Garraway 2 for on Linley Street. place- $200 and the third places- $100.

36. In reply, Older When last year’s Relay was held, it Winners of the two divisions in the Boys could only reach was the Fitz Hughes Government Secondary Schools’ segment earn 95 for 4 in 17 overs.

School which bossed the Primary Seldon Da Souza top Schools’ segment, taking the Male and themselves $400, the second places will get $ 300 and the third places $200. scored with 39.

Female Divisions.

Open Male and Female first places In the other game The Central Leeward trumped the will pocket $600; second places- $400 played on the Females Secondary Schools’ title and and $200 will go to the third places. weekend, which was Petit Bordel, the Male Division.

Athletes to run Round D Town this Sunday

SVGTTA assists Troumaca Secondary quest to spread the sport of table tennis throughout the length and breadth of the state, made another donation of equipment to a rural secondary school.

This time it was the turn of the Troumaca-Ontario Secondary School, which was as recent as last week, the recipient of a table tennis board.

Sean Stanley, Executive A handshake between Principal member of the SVGTTA and Leighton Adams (left) and Sean Coordinator of the Schools’ Table Stanley in front of the table tennis board, seals the donation. Tennis Programme, handed over the table to the school’s principal, Leighton Adams.

THE SVG TABLE Tennis Stanley is looking forward to Association (SVGTTA), in its increased table tennis activity at

the school now that a board is in place.

“We know that TroumacaOntario Secondary School has been a seasoned participant in the schools’ competition, hence they would make good use of the table.

It is always a pleasure to spread the sport because talent is in every area in SVG,” Stanley told THE VINCENTIAN, adding that the latest donation was one way in which the Association was fulfilling its mandate to aid in the development of the sport in schools.

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 02, 2020. 27.

Classifieds Land For Quick Sale at Brighton 4,064 s f.; 5,175 s.f.; 5,542 s.f. and others.

Call: 494-7019

FOR SALE Nissan Almera PK 570

Professional Housekeeper for home Five (5) years plus experience

For further information Tel: H. Matadial 457-1372/457-1654

Land For Sale in Union Island 22,991 sq. ft. at Jerome 14,178 sf. ft. & 7,109 sf. ft. at Miss Toast $8.00 per square foot Call: 454-4739

FOR RENT 1 Studio Flat Full Furnished Fully Air-Conditioned Tel: 457-1372/ 457-1654

FOR RENT One room furnished apartment at Harmony Hall (Prospect) Call: 458-6915

MS. MARCELLUS AMBER also known as Cynthia Dublin Green Hill Evangelical Church Sunday, 27th September, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery CAROL ELIZABETH JACK POMPEY Mt. Olivet Spiritual Baptist Church Layou Sunday, 27th September, 2020 Viewing: 1:30 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

Interment: Layou Cemetery

FREDERICK EZEKIEL HOYTE a.k.a Weep

MARGARET DANIEL CHARLES St. Patrick Anglican Church Barrouallie Saturday, 26th September, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

Questelles Apostolic Faith Saturday, 26th September, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery BEULAH MACK Georgetown New Testament Church of God Saturday, 26th September, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

ESRAN JAYDEN QUOW Sandy Bay Baptist Church Saturday, 26th September, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: London Cemetery

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER

02, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.40

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

‘INVESTIGATE DENGUE DEATHS,’ SAYS MP CUMMINGS Daniel Cummings, NDP’s Shadow Health Minister, fingered the Ministry of Health of acting after the ‘dengue horse’ had bolted.

WEST KINGSTOWN MP AND THE New Democratic Party (NDP) Shadow Minister for Health, Daniel Cummings said that there is a need for an independent investigation, following confirmation from the Ministry of Health on Monday that four persons have died from Dengue Fever.

Cummings, who made his appeal during an NDP Press Conference on Wednesday at Democrat House, Kingstown, emphasized, though, that the investigation should not be about scapegoating anyone, but should be conducted with a view to correcting the inherent problems in the Health System.

The Health Ministry confirmed in a press release last Monday that there have been some 432 laboratory confirmed cases of dengue fever, 58 more cases than what was confirmed 5 days before.

The release also confirmed the death of four persons from Dengue Fever: one adult female and one nine-year-old male; a four-year-old male who died before the dengue test could be completed but who was confirmed from a sample taken after his death, to have had Dengue Fever; an elderly male, who died on Friday, September 25 at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

“I am saying categorically there must be a serious investigation into the deaths of the four persons who died from dengue, particularly the four-year-old, to understand if there are problems in the delivery of healthcare,” Cummings asserted, and repeated that the problems must be addressed, not with any intentions of scapegoating but to pinpoint the problems.

Cummings told media persons and a Facebook audience that from his discussions with health professionals, he understood that deaths as a result of Dengue are rare.

“And certainly to have four deaths in a short space of time speaks to a break down in the healthcare delivery system,” he assessed.

He reasoned that from the very first confirmed case of dengue, there should have been a very detailed programme, establishing the protocols for every health centre and hospital in this country, so as to ensure every doctor in the Public Health System is alert to the threat, especially the doctors who continue to have serious problems communicating because English is not their first language.

From the information received concerning the deaths, Cummings said that in the case of the fouryear-old, for a child to be left for four days unattended with very high temperature, is to say the least, shocking.

“If as we are told, the first diagnosis was upper respiratory infection …….. from what we are told they actually thought that the child had the Coronavirus,” said Cummings, explaining further that the parents followed the medical information given to them by the clinic, but by the time the child, his condition having worsened, got to the Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, it was “downhill.”

The Shadow Health Minister told the conference that he visited the A&E of the MCMH

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

last week, and he was heartbroken after seeing the dozens of parents with children waiting hours for assistance.

“Reports are there weren’t any doctors in the A&E and the parents were furious……… after that, at a press conference, we are being told that the Ministry is looking to recruit ten more doctors.”

“It’s a situation,” Cummings said, “in which the Ministry has the warning, the Ministry has the statistics…. (but) the Ministry does nothing,… (until) long after the horse is bolted and people are dying, (and) you are talking about hiring doctors?”

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.