THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 05-04-19

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FRIDAY,

APRIL 05, 2019

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS JUSTICE BRIAN COTTLE has issued a reminder that the death penalty is still on the law books here, and can be applied in certain cases of murder.

His comments came just before sentencing 33-year-old Patrick Lovelace is the only person currently on death row in this country.

The death penalty, when executed here, has been by hanging.

VOLUME 113, No.14

www.thevincentian.com

Andy Quashie of Layou to 35 years imprisonment for the murder of Layou resident Joseph Evans ‘Tuffy’ Lynch, 36.

Lynch died after being shot multiple times in broad daylight, in full view of several persons, in that community, September 1, 2012.

Quashie will however serve 28 years and six months, as the Judge deducted the time he spent on remand in connection with the matter.

Justice Cottle pointed out that the death penalty is reserved for cases of exceptional depravity, and that the Andy Quashie case may have fallen within that category, given the circumstances and heinous nature of the crime.

However, the Prosecution had at no point given any notice of

EC$1.50

Justice Brian Cottle gave a ‘gentle’ reminder to all Vincentians, that this country has not yet abolished the death penalty. intention to seek the death penalty in this case, and therefore the Judge did not consider that option.

In 2001, the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal ruled that the mandatory nature of the death penalty was unconstitutional. That ruling was upheld by the Londonbased Privy Council.

The ruling was handed down in two cases, Peter Hughes in St. Lucia and Newton Spence in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Case Law became known as ‘Hughes and Spence’.

Before this ruling, the death penalty was imposed indiscriminately upon any person convicted of murder, not giving them an opportunity to have the individual circumstances of their cases

considered by the Court which is to pronounce the sentence.

A further development occurred June 22, 2009 when the Privy Council commuted convicted murderer Daniel ‘Compay’ Dick Trimmingham’s death sentence to life imprisonment.

28 YEARS PLUS FOR A “BRUTAL MURDER” ANDY QUASHIE is into the seventh day of a prison term of 28 years and six months for a murder which Justice Brian Cottle considers to be “brutal”.

During a sentencing hearing at the Criminal Assizes Friday, March 29, Justice Cottle sentenced the 33-yearold Layou man to 35 years in prison for the daylight murder of Layou resident Joseph Evans ‘Tuffy’ Lynch, 36, who was gunned

down in that community in full view of several persons September 1, 2012. He was shot multiple time in an area known as Cashville, around midday.

Cottle used 30 years as the starting point, and went up by five years, i.e. 35 years , taking the aggravating factors into account.

“When I look at this case, I see no mitigating factors”, he contended.

The Judge, however, deducted the six years five months and 24 days Quashie spent on remand, leaving 28 years and six months for him to be incarcerated.

Quashie also received a prison term of seven and a half years for possession of a firearm with intent to aid in the commission of an offence, but that will run concurrently to the other sentence.

A 12-member jury

had found Quashie guilty on both counts February 12 this year, but sentencing was postponed.

In mitigation, Quashie’s lawyer Grant Connell pointed out that there was an element of provocation, noting that Lynch had referred to Quashie as a “pussy”.

Connell said that he was not justifying killing a man over the word ‘pussy’, but certain actions in this

society triggers reactions.

He noted that two other men were charged in connection with the crime, but the case against them was discontinued and they became state witnesses.

Continued on Page 3.

Andy Quashie may well be into his 60s – a senior citizen before he completes his sentence.

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2. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Well into dissecting the whale – separating the ‘blubber’ from the ‘flesh’.

Bequia overjoyed with whale catch “DUE RESPECT TO MS. MITCHELL, but we ordinary folk in Bequia couldn’t be happier now that we ketch a whale.”

This was among the sentiments shared with THE VINCENTIAN by an associate on Bequia, during a conversation last Tuesday, five or so days after a female humpback whale was harpooned not more than a mile or so off that Grenadines island.

The catch, made by Captain Bruce Ollivierre and crew aboard the well-known whale boat ‘Perseverance’, was said to be some 45 feet in length.

Residents of Bequia, our associate said, had been waiting since 2016 for this whale, that year being the last time a catch was made.

It was understandable, therefore, when people of all ages and endeavours

rushed to the ‘whaling quay’ to simply look on as the ‘experts’ dissected the whale, or to participate in the actual process.

Whatever, the usual laidback routine on any Thursday afternoon on Bequia was thrown into a tailspin, and business came to a temporary halt.

Last week Thursday’s catch comes on the heels of the recent media launch of the effort of two Barrouallie men to kick start a whale watching component to the tourism product here.

The men, who were exposed to the pastime on a tour to Patagonia, Argentina, were supported in this tour and in setting up their businesses by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Preservation Fund, whose Coordinator is well-known

An example of the type of boat Bequia whalers use in their hunt. environmentalist and anti-whaling personality Louise Mitchell-Joseph.

Mitchell-Joseph is reported as saying she was “saddened” by the recent catch.

And while there are those who support her position, there seemed to be an overwhelming support for whaling among the resident population of Bequia, especially those native to the island.

Continued on Page 14.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 3.

News 3 Number of Miss SVG contestants decline

GIVEN THAT IT HAS BECOME something of a norm that the Miss SVG Pageant would feature between 8 – 9 contestants, when that number declined to six for 2019, some concern was registered.

THE VINCENTIAN sought an explanation from Ms. LaFerne Fraser — Co-ordinator of the Carnival Development Corporation’s Beauty Shows Committee. She acknowledged the decline, and noted that it had begun in 2017 and continued in 2018 when the number of contestants was 7 in each year.

So what has accounted for the further decline in 2019?

Ms. Fraser put this down to two basic reasons: the ‘last minute’ withdrawal of potential delegates; and the failure by many of the applicants to meet the criteria for entry.

“What it turns out to be is that we had applicants who by our estimation would have been eligible to participate, but two of them did not show up to the interview,” said Fraser.

One of the contestants, according to Fraser, requested

that we defer her application to 2021, which the Committee did.

With respect to applicants not meeting the criteria, Fraser said, “One of the things we look for, apart from what you put on paper when you are doing your application, is that when you attend an interview, we try to make sure, to the best of our knowledge, whether you can be a good representative for the country. … Some applicants have not met that standard yet, and they need some improvement in some LaFerne Fraser, Co-ordinator of CDC’s areas which we would Beauty Shows Committee, gave two encourage and will give basic reasons for the decline in the them some details on how number of Miss SVG contestants. they can improve.”

The Beauty Shows Coordinator, a former produce a quality show in which Miss SVG herself, explained that any of our contestants could be the process of screening was all crowned and of whom we will about ensuring that all standards always be proud.” (KH) are met so that “we always

Death penalty still law in SVG Continued from Front Page.

In its judgement, the Privy Council did not consider Trimmingham’s crime to be the ‘worst of the worst’, so as to warrant the ultimate penalty of capital punishment. It was also stated that the object of keeping the appellant out of society entirely, could be achieved without executing him.

Trimmingham was convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of 68-year-old Carriere livestock farmer Albert Bertie Browne, who was beheaded, disemboweled and buried in the Carriere Mountains

Is Port Elizabeth’s waterfront heading for a face change? A report by a team of urban and community planners could well determine the answer.

Bequia Waterfront to be studied A TEAM OF SEVEN TOP-LEVEL urban and community planners from the American Institute of Architects will be visiting Bequia from May 30th through June 3rd to study the Port Elizabeth waterfront, and provide a citizen-led vision of how that area can be improved and upgraded for the benefit of everyone who uses it.

The all-volunteer Regional/Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT) has extensive experience in small-town design, environmental planning, community revitalization and development, municipal sustainability, public policy, civil engineering, landscape architecture, historic preservation planning, strengthening civic capacity, and more.

The team will be led by Joel Mills, Senior Director of the American Institute of Architects’ Center for Communities by Design. The Center is a leading provider of pro bono technical assistance and democratic design for community success. The Center’s design assistance process has been recognized with numerous awards, and has been replicated and adapted across the world.

A Bequia R/UDAT Steering Committee, set up last year, will facilitate the team’s visit.

In the coming weeks, the Committee will be reaching out to Bequia community members to provide information about the R/UDAT visit and to gather input.

At the end of the team’s visit, Bequia will receive a pro bono report with the team’s suggestions and strategies on how the Port Elizabeth waterfront area can be optimized for the benefit of all.

(Contributed by Bequia Waterfront Development Committee)

January 8, 2003. sanctioned execution was three persons were Patrick Lovelace of carried out here in hanged.

Belmont is the only February 1995, when inmate currently on death row. He was convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of 12-year-old female Continued from Front Page. referred to the accused as a pannist Lokeisha Nanton ‘pussy’. This upset the accused of Sion Hill, whose nude Connell said the general spirit and friends, and they left, went body was found hanging of the Social Inquiry Report home and returned with their from a mango tree in an seemed to paint Quashie as a firearms. He noted that Lynch area of that community person with a friendly character was on his way home when called London Road, on and not a trouble maker, and the Quashie and others ran through a the morning of July 2, prison authorities described him shortcut and shot him. Lynch fell 2002. An autopsy as a quiet person. to the ground, and while he was revealed she was The lawyer suggested a lying there, Quashie walked up to strangled. starting point of 15 years, and him and shot him again, in full His matter is still assured , “Andy Quashie is one view of several persons. before the Court, in light that I am certain can return to “This is a brutal murder of a series of applications society after serving his time”. carried out in broad daylight,” and appeals by his In recounting aspects of the Cottle lamented. He highlighted lawyers, to have him evidence, before handing down that there was premeditation, and removed from death row. the sentences, Justice Cottle said, two armed men.

The last state“The deceased walked by and The Judge pointed out that

28 years plus for a “brutal murder” Quashie was convicted following a full trial, and had previous convictions of a violent nature, including one in which he pointed a gun at another person.

Initially, Quashie was charged jointly with Layou residents Adolphus Foye and Billy Adams, but the charges against them were withdrawn, and they were made state witnesses.

Adams was shot and killed at Layou July 27 last year.

Joel King, a Layou resident, has been charged with Adams’ murder, and will stand trial in the High Court.

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4. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Health

Levi Latham Health Centre opens

The Centre was constructed to cater to challenged THE REFURBISHED Levi delivery of health care in male, female persons, Latham Health Centre, the community. and pediatric which was officially It boasts a new wards and an and easy of opened on Tuesday, is delivery/maternity isolation wing. movement of patients – regarded as the most section (the former had New and note the substantial development in only one bed); a improved ramp. health care for the people dedicated Accident and health of Marriaqua and Emergency Unit (new to services will surrounding areas. the facility); a nurse be offered, including services and physioThe EC$7million monitoring station and access to medical therapy. facility surpasses its an improved waiting specialists in areas not Parliamentary predecessor and offers a area with the capacity to previously made Representative for the range of services, hold up to 50 people. available, including constituency, St Clair marking a huge The facility was ophthalmology, urology, ‘Jimmy’ Prince said that development in the upgraded to include radiology, nutrition he for one, understood the importance of health services being made available to communities such as Marriaqua.

He explained that there were three stages in the history of the clinic at Mesopotamia.

The first was when the clinic was housed in the police station staffed with one nurse, an itinerant doctor and an individual who doubled as dispenser and dentist.

Residents, he recalled, had to look for bottles in which to place their medication.

The second stage came under the then area representative Levi Latham, and at a time when, according to Prince, there were strong community leaders and a ‘self-help’ attitude among Marriaqua philanthropist and retired businessman Agustus ‘Chippy’ Browne the residents. (in wheelchair) was among those cutting the ribbon to officially declare the What came to be Centre open.

The new facility boasts a dedicated Accident and Emergency Unit. known as the Levi Latham Clinic was constructed with the assistance of the community.

And now, the third stage: “The facility is a modern one and is very important to the constituency.”

Luis Maia, the Representative of the European Union (EU), the source of funding for the project, said that the facility was expected to serve over 15,000 residents.

He went on further to say that the modernization of the health sector is a huge task which involved interventions in many interconnecting pillars.

He lauded the government for taking

the initiative for developing the health facilities, and noted that the residents in the community now had access to improved health care.

Health Minister, Luke Browne, echoed the sentiments of the UN representative, adding that, in accordance with the funding agreement, an ambulance was purchased for the facility.

The complex was the second such facility to be open within the last two weeks, the other being the Smart Hospital at Chateaubelair.

The Health/Medical Staff Quarters at Union Island and the Polyclinic at Buccament are expected to be open soon.

(DD) The Centre is equipped with its own ambulance and aids to ensure improved response.

Signs of improved patient care in the Accident and Emergency Unit.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 5.

Regional

CAL to pick up slack

made the comment during a recent interview with WE FM in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

He referenced T&T (38%) and St. Lucia (46%) as low load factor routes for LIAT, and said if Lucia and T&T do not engage in the proposed minimum revenue guarantee currently before CARICOM Heads, “it might be more effective to drop the routes instead of having the shareholder least not for now.

But Imbert, in a press conference last Saturday, all but guaranteed that Caribbean Airlines had enough capacity and “if there is a problem and LIAT finds itself unable to afford to fly to Trinidad, then Caribbean Airlines will pick up the slack.”

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, CARICOM Lead He pointed to his government getting on Aviation and Maritime matters, “out of LIAT a long time ago,” and stated categorically, “we have no plan at this gave a very strong hint that LIAT point in time to get back in LIAT,” the could pull out entirely from Trinidad Trinidad Guardian reported him as and Tobago. (Photo Credit: gis.bb) saying.

LIAT currently services T&T with 53 IN RESPONSE TO ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Prime Minister Dr outgoing flights a week to Grenada, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves who hinted that LIAT Guyana, Barbados and Antigua and could drop Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) from its schedule of routes as the airline Barbuda.

The cash-strapped airline, it was seeks to restructure amid financial burdens, T&T’s Finance Minister — Colm disclosed, needed an urgent injection of US$5,.4 million to keep it operational, Imbert has assured that, should that and the principal shareholder happen, T&T state-owned Caribbean governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Airlines (CAL) will “pick up the slack.”

Gonsalves, who is also the CARICOM Barbados, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, proposed a minimum Lead among Heads of Government for revenue guarantee for consideration.

Transport (Maritime and Aviation),

So far, only Grenada has given any hint of responding positively to the proposal.

St. Lucia has made it clear that it was not interested in investing in LIAT as it was structured.

Meanwhile, in keeping with a promise to rationalize its scheduled service, the financially strapped regional airline last week Thursday, March 28, announced that, for operational reasons not detailed, it was cancelling the following flights: LI 374 from Barbados to St Lucia; LI 375 from St Lucia to Barbados; LI 337 from Barbados to Grenada; LI 338 from Grenada to Barbados; LI 769 from Barbados to St Vincent and LI 770 from St Vincent to Barbados.

Affected passengers, the airline said, will be moved to other flights at no charge. (Source: Trinidad Guardian, KYSS FM St. Kitts)

Colm Imbert, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, said, in the face of Dr. Gonsalves’ threat ‘no problem if LIAT pulls out’. (Photo Source: wired868. tt)

Pilots on board: LIAT stays in the sky WHEN ON MARCH 25, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne was reported in a WINN (St. Kitts and Nevis) posting by Ken Richards, that ‘all LIAT pilots are on board with the plan to restructure the regional airline to make it a more viable entity financially’, he (Browne) must have known that he was bordering on prophecy, if not speculation, rather than describing the plain truth.

For, if we follow the time line of events surrounding the airline, on Tuesday 26, it was reported that the Captain Carl Burke, President of pilots of the cash-strapped regional LIALPA, confirmed that LIAT pilots had airline had rejected a call from the agreed to a pay cut. (Photo Credit: principal shareholder governments Caribbean 360) and LIAT management, to take a salary cut, as the Antigua-based hopefully against any loss that they airline seeks to reverse its financial would have had in terms of the salaries situation. and wages, Burke, in what was seen as President of the Leeward Islands Airline Pilots Association (LIAPA), Carl reference to this offer, was reported as saying, “… we were very cautious about Burke, said then, his members were making an investment in the company very reluctant to accept the call for a at this time.” salary cut at this time.

Burke said that the straw that broke What PM Browne must have been the deadlock might have been the pilots’ hinting at with optimism, was another acceptance of a guarantee from Prime meeting of stakeholders scheduled for Minister Mottley, who committed to that Tuesday/Wednesday. ensure that there was “accountability At that meeting, according to Burke and it would not be business as usual.” in a statement to Caribbean Media It was revealed at the thirtieth InterCorporation (CMC) last Friday, his Association agreed to a less than 10 per Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean cent salary cut in a bid to keep the Community (CARICOM) held at Frigate airline in the air.

Bay, St Kitts and Nevis, 26-27, Burke told CMC that, while he was February 2019, that LIAT needed an not at liberty to disclose the exact immediate injection of US$5.4 million in amount the pilots had agreed to, cash to keep it “flying.” pending Prime Minister Mia Mottley of When no other CARICOM partners Barbados receiving the necessary took the bait, the four principal communication, he was nonetheless shareholder governments of LIAT — indicating that it was not the 10 per Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados , cent that had been requested.

Dominica and St. Vincent and the He said during a meeting with LIAT Grtenadines - agreed to foot the bill, a request had been made for the 10 per with the expectation, according to PM cent pay cut across the board, and that Browne, that other territories could be the pilots “wrote to them and said we convinced to come on board in the did not have the confidence in LIAT’s foreseeable future. management to take us out (of this).”

To date, only Grenada has given any With respect to a profit- sharing encouraging indication of a element in which pilots and other preparedness to invest in the fledging employees could share in the future airline. profits, and which will mitigate

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6. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

NY Diaspora group to host panel discussion

US CORRESPONDENT THE BROOKLYN-BASED ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines (SVG) Diaspora Committee of NY, Inc. will host, for the very first time, a mental health and wellness panel discussion on Saturday, April 6, at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn.

According to the group’s chairperson, Sherrill-Ann MasonSherrill-Ann MasonHaywood, pictured at the Haywood, the event, entitled “Mental Health Brooklyn-based St. is Everyone’s Business”, Vincent and the Grenadines Ex-Teachers is the first that the organization will host, as Association of New part of its “new strategic York’s gala luncheon in focus on health and January. (Photo credit: wellness for the period Nelson A. King ) 2019 - 2021.”

The event — which

by NELSON A. KING begins at 3:00 p.m., at naking@verizon.net; the Friends of Crown kingnaking210@yahoo.c Heights Educational om Center’s 813 Sterling

Place location — “targets families, especially parents and teenagers,” Mason-Haywood said, and will be streamed live via the committee’s Facebook page (http://tinyurl.com/SVGD NYC) “to primarily facilitate participation of mental health and social work professionals in SVG and the Caribbean in general,” MasonHaywood said.

Panelists are: Cruz Fuksman, Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Danielle Fairbairn-Bland, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Nicole Slater, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC); and Dr. Vanessa Bobb.

Vincentian-born media personality Theresa

Daniel will serve as moderator.

“Issues related to Mental Health are still very misunderstood and considered taboo in many circles in the Caribbean community, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Diaspora,” MasonHaywood said.

Panelists are expected to address: the nature of psychiatric illness and other mental health challenges; tools to address mental health problems; the impact of mental illness on families and the community; strategies for reducing the stigma of mental illness; and a roadmap for recovery and wellness.

Mental health resource material will be

provided at the event by NYC’s Mental Health Initiative, Thrive NYC, which provides mental health first aid training for New York City residents.

“As a next step to follow up the panel discussion, SVG Diaspora Committee of NY will partner with Thrive NYC to offer the mental health first aid training to interested

persons in the Vincentian and Caribbean Diaspora in NYC,” Mason-Haywood said.

The SVG Diaspora Committee of New York Inc., which was founded in 2010, is a registered IRS 501 c3 non-profit organization, operating in New York City, and has as its main focus community improvement and capacity building.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 7.

Courts

Layou man jailed for senseless attack Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS TERRANCE SMITH, a Layou resident who attacked and stabbed another man of that community multiple times two years and seven months ago, will serve the next 12 years and four months behind bars for causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Smith was sentenced to 13 years, as Justice Brian Cottle used ten years as a starting point, and went up by three years taking into account the aggravating factors.

He saw no mitigating factors.

The Judge, however, deducted eight months for the time spent on remand.

A nine-member jury had, on February 27 this year, following a trial at the Criminal Assizes, found Smith guilty of causing grievous bodily harm to Dwayne Joseph with intent, August 18, 2016.

The Prosecution’s evidence revealed that, on the date in question, both men were ‘hanging out’ at a bar at Layou.

Joseph went outside to cool down, and Smith asked him why he was looking at him. Joseph

told him that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was a free country, and he is at liberty to do what he wants.

Joseph then left to accompany a female to her home, and when he returned, Smith attacked and stabbed him several times, inflicting serious injuries, resulting in Joseph being unable to work for some time.

“This was an attack

which was unprovoked”, Justice Cottle lamented before handing down the sentence.

The Judge noted that multiple stab wounds were inflicted in a public place, resulting in serious injuries, causing Joseph’s inability to work for some time. He also stressed the medical expenses incurred.

The Judge said that in the Social Inquiry

Report, persons who knew Smith, reported that he was known to issue threats, being dishonest, and fond of conflict. Some described him as aggressive and malicious.

Smith is the father of two children, ages 10 and 15. He had several previous convictions, including one for wounding the mother of one of his children, for

which he was sentenced to six months in prison.

Causing grievous bodily harm with intent carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Before the penalty was imposed, Smith, who was unrepresented, begged for leniency. His term of imprisonment will begin from the date of conviction.

Ottley Hall men on gun, ammo charges JUST OVER A MONTH after 27year-old Attiba Bess appeared at the Serious Offences Court, accused of shooting at two police officers, the Ottley Hall man was back before the same Court on charges of firearm and ammunition possession.

Bess and Ormond Ragguette known as Joshua Guy, also of Ottley Hall, were taken before the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, charged jointly with possession of a glock .26 semiautomatic pistol, without licence, and ten rounds of .9mm ammunition.

The men were arrested during

a police action at Ottley Hall on Tuesday.

Ragguette pleaded guilty to the charges, while Bess maintained his innocence, and the matter was adjourned to Tuesday.

When the men returned on Tuesday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne was informed that the prosecution was proceeding against Bess. As a result, a trial date was set for April 29. Ragguette’s sentencing was also adjourned, and the men were remanded.

Bess had been granted $10,000 bail with one surety when he appeared at the Serious Offences

Court February 25, charged with unlawfully discharging a firearm at police constables Mohammed Lavia and Verrol Sam, both attached to Attiba Bess the Special Patrol Unit (SPU).

The offence was reportedly committed at Ottley Hall February 18.

Bess was released from prison earlier this year after serving a 15-year prison sentence for manslaughter.

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8. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 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

A NOISE Culture IF SOMETHING IS NOT DONE urgently, this country would become the NOISE capital of the Caribbean.

This publication has had numerous calls (complaints) since Monday, in relation to this concern.

Yes, we understand culture to be dynamic; that succeeding generations will indulge in certain pastimes that if/when they become habitual to the extent that they influence life style changes, they are more than likely to be accepted as ‘our culture’ — that which identifies us.

What remains always up for debate, is the extent to which a new distinguishing expression truly represents the culture (the majority) of the people. Fad or Culture??

Last Saturday’s unprecedented ‘Monday Jam in March’ event, notwithstanding whatever permission was granted, was an unexpected ‘noise nuisance’, not to mention the degree to which it obstructed vehicular traffic on an early Saturday evening.

Carnival officially closed last year on July 10, but, if the truth be told, there has been no easing up of carnival-type activities throughout the country.

Entertainment, we acknowledge especially as it appeals to the teenage to 35-year-old age group has moved outdoors. But this new wave has been catapulted on to the landscape without due care and control.

We have failed, in the face of a deafening expression of ourselves, and as our Noise Act beckons, ‘to balance the personal rights and interests of individuals as against the rights and interests of the community as a whole’.

Permission is granted, willy nilly it would appear, for weekend activities- including Sundays - that affect the rest and lives of many ‘non-participating’ citizens, moreso the senior, retired citizens who, at a minimum of our discretion, deserve better.

The sad reality is that there are many who otherwise and at other times would indulge in these activities, who would agree, but for fear of being labeled ‘soft’, ‘old and boring’, keep quiet in the midst of the blaring sounds that engulf others’ rest and leisure time.

This is not a call for the ‘banning’ of events and fetes as they are called, but moreso an appeal for a sense of regard,

respect and adherence to what is right and proper.

And if, as is usually the case, we cannot, out of mere human regard for others —other generations of citizens — then we have to resort to imposing laws that put in place effective but mutually acceptable checks and balances.

The NOISE Act in this country has to be revisited, and related legislation modified as we move forward, or we will all go deaf or become ‘the walking dead’ induced by a lack of sleep and/or adequate rest.

From where some of us stand, we see a need for serious remodeling of the legal framework governing permission for these outdoor activities, especially as it relates to the level of ‘noise’ (amplified sound) that should emanate from these activities.

For example, we need to affix legal decibel levels to specific period when granting permission — e.g. 65 decibels between 8pm and 8am, with an addendum that speaks to a separate application for variation of the decibel level within the period of time, for which permission is granted for staging the event.

If promoters/organisers of an event do not apply for the variation, then they are obligated to stick within the already prescribed limits. Contravention of the conditions of permission could mean that promoter/organiser could be suspended from making a future application.

But if at all, our NOISE Act already speaks to this requirement, then, given the extreme levels of sound/NOISE that emanate from these events, those tasked with policing the events so as to ensure compliance with the tenets of the Act, have either fallen asleep amidst the deafening noise, simply turn a deaf ear, or wear ear muffs that stifle the sound.

This, because no one, as far as this publication is aware, has been cautioned, far less charged for breaking the law.

Yet, within all the NOISE, we are wont to accept that there is no action against those who transgress against the rest of society with their deliberate use and/or encourage of loud music, i.e.

NOISE, because, simply put, there is no effective law that allows society to rein in these defaulters.

Time to revisit the NOISE Act!!

U.W.I. 70 years young THE UNIVERSITY started as a glorified medical school. It has been said that funding came readily from those developed countries that could not stand Black West Indian surgeons handling their people in North America and Europe.

Some disbanded Army huts on Mona formed the nucleus of the original university.

Dr Ken Antrobus was a graduate of that school.

His sister Jacqueline, another Island Schol winner followed Ken to Jamaica where she married Jamaican Hector Wynter who was Registrar and later Director of Extra Mural Studies at the time I was appointed Resident Tutor, S.V.G. I had gone to U.W.I. in 1960 preceded, in order, by persons such as Elaine Gatherer Connell, Norma Ince-Keizer, Julian Duncan and Winston Baptiste.

Numerically speaking, those of 1960 went up in a fairly decent batch. With Wallace Dear and Michael Joshua, we formed the very first Vincentian Social Science students, funding our own way as schols were reserved for the arts in those days. Note that Joshua paid for his own son.

In my group were Baldwin King who went on to record a First Class Honours degree in chemistry, Cedric Harold, Leroy Mulraine, Jeanette Ballantyne-France, Joyce Peters —Mc Kenzie, Castine Quashie, Errol King, Errol Daisley, Celitha Wiltshire- Davy and others.

We were greeted by my school-mate medics Bob Sutton, Carlos Mulraine, and Albert Lockhart who went on to distinguish himself in the field of ophthalmology, using the ganja as base for eye-cures.

Already in 1960, U.W.I. was etching out a place for itself in medicine. Dr Ken Standard, social and preventive, and Dr.George Alleyne Public Health were already on the move.

The feared faculty of social science started off with a bang. To begin with, prominent economist Sir. Arthur Lewis had been made first West Indian Vice- Chancellor.

American Kenneth Boulding was visiting professor of economics, and Brian Chapman of Manchester visiting professor of government, assisted by Jamaican Gladstone Mills and Trinidadian Xavier Mark.

The Sociology department stood supreme with Jamaican M.G. Smith, Trinidadian Lloyd Brathwaite and Welshman Raymond Smith.

And the tutorials were run by the likes of the youthful Allister Mc.Intyre and PostGrad Student Lloyd Best in economics and Rex Nettleford and others in politics and government.

Easily the most brilliant and impressive student of my time was Walter Rodney, a student of the history department which worked hand-in-glove with Social Science.

In the 1960s, social life for U.W.I.

Students, on and off campus, was hectic, pleasant and safe, and sometimes privileged.

Intermarriage was the order of the day.

We lost Cedric Harold to a Jamaican nurse.

Bob Sutton, to a Guyanese physiotherapist, Emily Anthony to a Bajan Student, Cecile Alves to Guyanese Esmond Smith, and Jeanette Ballantyne to Guyanese Bobby France whom she brought home to SVG, Joyce Peters to a Jamaican Mc Kenzie and Cynthia Hunt joined her husband in Barbados.

As for me, I took a Vincentian lass as bride after my first year, and Camie and Rosita King. Claude Samuel later following the same route.

But the old trend continued, so that Randy Cato, Leonard Jones, Timothy Providence, Errol Maloney, Travers Phillips and Ralph Gonsalves, all married Jamaicans, as later on did Joan Bowman to her lecturer Jamaican Stafford Neil.

I obtained an Upper Second Class degre,e but was the only one so successful that was not offered a post graduate scholarship, not even from his home territory. But after working for one year in the department of government in the assistant lecturership grade, I was appointed first Vincentian Resident Tutor to serve in his country.

As Resident Tutor, I extended classes to Barrouallie, Mesopotamia, and Langley Park.

My itinerant tutors included Leroy Mulraine (English), Walford Thompson (Biology), Daniel Williams (Constitutional Law), Earlston Shortte (Health Science) and Leo Lewis (Wood Work). I ran classes in Current Affairs.

I formed a group which published a quarterly, “Flambeau” which the University unofficially adopted and with which the “New World Group” of the Caribbean Scholars formally associated.

I have observed with pride the growth of our university and campuses, especially last Saturday night the UWI put on show a brilliant exposé in song and dance coordinated by the young genius Rodney Small, himself a product of the Jamaica School of Performing Arts.

Around Easter, I hope to provide a masterpiece article (obviously not my own) which highlights the brilliance of Becket Cyrus and Frankie Mc Intosh, the said pair hailed in the gala performances put on under the direction of Debra Dalrymple, Resident Tutor.

U.W.I. has certainly made a positive impact on the host society. Here’s hoping that it soars to higher heights and grows from strength to strength in the years ahead under the inspirational guidance of DR supreme architect.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 9.

Letters

COMMENTS FROM OUR WEBSITE

Re: A reparationist response to Prince Charles visit?

TO BE SURE, the indigenous people of SVG were horribly treated by the British conquerors.

But Jomo Thomas ignores the elementary fact the French, Dutch, Portuguese, and Spaniards were also involved in the seizing of lands from the indigenous people, and the importation of slaves from West Africa. The implications of this for SVG are that, had SVG not been ceded to Great Britain after they defeated the French in the Seven Years’ War (1756-1763), SVG would have remained a French possession; all the lands would have been taken from the indigenous Kalinago and sold to French sugar cane planters (as they were in other parts of the New World); slavery would have exploded, and Chatoyer would have been less of a footnote in history than he is now.

Indeed, Chatoyer is no national hero, because he was controlled and financed by the French who wanted to retake control of SVG after 1763. Had this wicked alliance been successful, all Black Vincentians would have seen their slave status extended from 1838 to 1848, the date slavery ended in the French possessions, and we would all be speaking French.

Again, none of this is an apology for the brutalities of the conquest, the expulsion of the indigenous people (which is “ethnic cleansing,” not “genocide”), and the enslavement of thousands of Africans captured by their own Black brethren and sold to the British, a process so far removed from the real Holocaust which saw the planned extermination of 6 million Jews and millions of other “undesirables” by the Nazis, that it is a libelous insult to their memory.

This very poor re-writing of history is a disservice to the Vincentian people.

C ben-David

LIAT shareholders propose new arrangement THERE ARE established industry solutions for LIAT’s problems, in THIS case replacing political appointees and incompetent executives with qualified experienced AIRLINE professionals; but here comes Ralph - ignoring all advice from people who would know - with a whole new complicated and special home-grown ball game which really has no relevance to solving the future problems of the airline.

It is, therefore, reasonable to ask - What is Fat Ralph getting out of it?

Fat Ralph and Jean Holder have overseen the MOST LOSING part of LIAT’s entire history, but THEY are going to create the solutions to the airline’s problems?

Look, shut it to hell down NOW, and save the poor taxpayers another hundred million US dollars in wasted nonsense and unnecessary corruption.

James Lynch

John De Silva aka Sonny Otway Dear Kenneth: I JUST stumbled on your article regarding the SVG 1953 cricket team. I quite enjoyed it. Great job......wonderful memories!

You indicated that Casper Quammie was at the time the only living member of that team.

Correction: Cayley Bonadie is still alive and will be 98 in September if he gets there.

Brensley Bonadie

Why appeal?

SO, THE PETITIONS have come, but it seems they haven’t gone. If I am to go on what I read in THE VINCENTIAN, the petitioners are preparing to appeal the ruling that threw out the petitions. I wonder if the respondents are preparing to counter this appeal, or if they think that the NDP is bluffing.

I am at a loss here; maybe I am just stupid.

But, with the possibility of elections being called next year (for that matter, Dr. Gonsalves could decide to call the election this year) and, for that matter, with the next general election due no later constitutionally than March 9, 2021, what does the NDP hope to gain by filing an appeal when we are already into the second quarter of 2019? What difference do they hope

to make at this point in our history, especially after all that we learned from the trial?

Whatever they think might have gone wrong, and whatever the ULP might know went wrong, will be dealt with before the next general election.

I don’t expect the same mistakes to be made. It will be a case, as a recent Editorial in THE VINCENTIAN implied, that if any ‘hanky panky’ is to go on in the next election, it will be done before the election not during the election.

Wouldn’t it be better if they, the NDP, spend their time and money getting ready for the next election? I mean, they lost the last two elections by one seat; they should be looking to see how they can at least turn that one seat last

into a victory. It would be the end for them should they lose again and worse, if they lose by one seat again.

Why are they finding it so difficult to make that one seat gain? They need to sit and study this seriously instead of wasting time on filing some appeal in this petitions matter.

And while we are on the talk about the next elections, it looks very likely that most of the incumbents — including some very old faces — are going to be presented as candidates once again. If this pans out, it will be a sad day to think that some of us might be inclined to vote for some people whose main intention, as they have shown, is to gain power, wield that power against their detractors, remain

in office for as long as they could, and not to lookout for their constituents?

You know, we like to talk about term limits for Prime Ministers and Presidents. Why have we never demanded term limits for our politicians?

So much to say, so little time!

George

Taxis creating new parking lane MORE AND MORE, I am noticing that taxi drivers and other operators of vehicles for fare, are creating their own parking lane. To be more precise, it is a case of them taking over an existing lane.

When the allotted parking space for taxis on that area of Bay Street in front of the Financial Complex and nearing the entrance of the Solidarity Car Park is filled, the excess taxi operators park their vehicles in front of the legally parked vehicles of their colleagues. In so doing, these operators who commit this offence, take in at least half of the extreme left lane

* Who is the bona fide Parliamentary Representative for North Leeward? * Was he at the opening of the Smart Hospital in Chateau? * What happened to all the fire that the teachers and civil servants had late last year and earlier this year? Like they accept the PM offer or what? * How many members of the ULP cabinet stifling their consciences?

that is allowed for vehicular traffic, especially mini buses, which are going on to Little Tokyo, and those persons looking to enter the Solidarity Car Park.

This illegal parking results in the mini buses, which are always in a hurry, dashing into the middle lane without any care for the traffic in that lane.

But the thing that bothers me most is that all of this — illegally parked taxis, mindless

mini buses - is taking place right in front of the police with their Central Police Station situated within ‘spitting distance’ of where the transgressions are being committed.

So I ask: Why are taxi drivers allowed to create their own parking lane?

Are these taxis, like many buses, actually owned by police officers so they turn a blind eye?

Or have the police given up and basically thrown in the towel?

Whatever, perhaps someone with a sense of reason and order will take note of this and do something to eradicate this nuisance habit.

Retiree PS: I forget to factor in the ‘cartmen’ who also use this extreme left lane on Bay Street, even when the taxis are parked illegally. They cause even more confusion

Taxes bearing down on the poor TAXES!!! They are a must, but who is feeling the worst of it? The poor man!!

The government levies excessive taxes on their citizens, and forget that God is watching. We have something coming for us because we always forget the poor. More and more people are crying and heading for hard times, and a lot of people are suffering, as VAT is a killer to the poor. Jesus told his followers to give to Caesar his due, and Paul urged Christians to pay their taxes.

Do politicians really love the poor in this country, or do they love their vote? When there is an election coming up, every party talks about the poor’s lives. Matter of fact, when election comes around, they climb the highest mountain and walk the lowest valley to meet the poor and eat their food. However, after the election, when the individual wins his/her seat, the poor man can only see their secretary.

When I look in the lines on polling day, the poor man’s sons and daughters are in line, while the rich

man’s children are overseas awaiting a job if their mother, father, brother or sister wins a seat.

I would like to say to believers in Christ, that we can also join efforts to make the government more accountable to its citizens, more efficient in its , and more responsible in its fiscal policies.

God’s people can help head off the anger, frustration, and injustice that will lead to St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ downfall. Men and women of God must play a meaningful role in this country. Do not take ‘handouts’ from politicians, and bribes on a job that keeps your mouths shut while the poor man is crying for your help.

Take warning, a child of God must be strong.

Believers, don’t let the errors of evil people lead you down the wrong path and make you lose your balance.

Bishop Ezekiel Creese Faith Word Ministries Roseau

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10. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

18 years of outstanding progress

(Excerpts of the Hon. Terrance Ollivierre’s Budget presentation)

Introduction EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS AGO, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines made a decision that they had had enough of James Mitchell, Arnhim Eustace and the New Democratic Party. Their beloved country had been dragged through a myriad of poor decisions, all of which created developmental difficulties for the average Vincentian. For example, the decision by the NDP to always have a surplus on the budget, at all costs, affected the ability of the NDP to finance important developmental activities of the government. So while the NDP declared a budgetary surplus, many of our primary school children were subjected to a shift system, where they attended half day school.

By 2001, the country’s economy was in a tailspin. Bananas had declined, due to the absence of the preferential system in Europe, and poor planning by the NDP. The state infrastructure was in shambles, with police stations, schools, and health clinics in a state of disrepair. The country was saddled with the unfortunate Ottley Hall Project, through which foreign investors virtually ripped off the country.

To crown it all, trade unions were getting active over the plans by the NDP, to introduce the “Greedy Bills” to give themselves salary increases, while public servants struggled. NDP Parliamentarians and close party supporters were purchasing State lands, particularly in the Grenadines, at knock-down prices. NDP ministers were using State vehicles as if they owned them, and the list goes on. This whole state of affairs was too much for Vincentians, and it had to be corrected, in the face of a new and bold developmental strategy put forward by a new and vibrant Unity Labour Party.

People-centered Development Over the last 18 years, the Unity Labour Party has adopted a “PeopleCentered Development Policy” which has been extremely successful, and which has created tremendous positive change in the country.

Through this policy, the ULP has been able to devise and implement programmes and policies to uplift the quality of life of all Vincentians.

Perhaps the most popular of the ULP strategies is the Education Revolution, a programme which has touched the lives of every single Vincentian since it was implemented in 2005.

Under this programme, the government has modernised the education system, to provide universal access to primary and secondary schools in the State. Before 2001, less than forty percent of eligible primary school students got an opportunity to further their education at the secondary level.

Now all that has changed, and all students are getting a chance to attend secondary schools, and the ULP administration says “no child will be left behind”, a commitment to ensure that universal access continues. That is not all. The ULP has expanded the opportunities for our Vincentian students, to advance their learning at the tertiary level.

The opportunities at the Community College have increased, and many students are making use of the opportunities to go to universities abroad, particularly the University of the West Indies.

There are a number of things that

Literacy and numeracy continue to affect students

the ULP government has done as part of its people-centred development drive. For example, there is the construction of the bridge over the Rabacca Dry River. For years, the people of North Windward were at the mercies of this river, and no political party did anything about this. It was the ULP administration who devised, designed and built a bridge over the dry river, to ensure that there is easy communication by road, for the people of North Windward.

The truth is that as a country, we have made significant socio-economic and technological progress despite our geographical size, and our scarcity of natural resources. Much development has been accomplished and achieved in the face of unfavourable economic conditions. But much work still remains to be done.

Overall, there have been significant developments in Health, Tourism, ICT, and Agriculture. Scholarships abound, and our students are pursuing studies as far as Malaysia and Taiwan. In the area of diplomatic relations, the ULP administration has developed new international relationships with a number of countries, particularly those in the Far East. This has resulted in benefits for the country, particularly in the areas of geothermal energy and infrastructure development.

Salaries have been increased and, with the current low to zero inflation rate, many public servants, including teachers, nurses, and police officers, enjoy a comfortable standard of living.

The government has made a significant dent in the poverty level, and with the Zero Hunger Trust Fund, this battle will continue.

On to 2020 The future certainly looks bright for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines under the ULP administration. Tremendous work is being done in the energy sector, which will see eighty percent of the country’s energy needs being produced from renewable sources. This will be a great savings for Vinlec, which will be passed on to consumers.

In hotel development, there is the government hotel at Mt. Wynne which will begin towards the end of 2019, along with the Holiday Inn Express in the Brighton area. The Buccama hotel should be re-opened this year, and work on the Peters Hope hotel project will be well advanced during this period.

All this is good for the Argyle International Airport. As the airport attracts more visitors, the country has to improve its hotel room stock to accommodate more people, particularly those coming out from the United Kingdom market.

There is a busy period ahead for the health sector, as smart hospitals and polyclinics are opened, and the health services are further improved.

And then there is the medicinal cannabis industry which is set to take off in the near future.

All this is not good for the opposition New Democratic Party, as they contemplate another five years in opposition. But since they have already set a record as being the party to spend the longest in opposition, it’s all good.

EDUCATION IS OFTEN a person’s most valuable asset. Undoubtedly, the education a person receives should adequately prepare him or her to reach full potential, i.e. an education that caters to the holistic needs of all individuals. In order for each person to perform at his or her best, emphasis must not only be placed on access but also on equity, quality and relevance.

The real measure of our education system is how well it prepares and develops our people, and the opportunities it affords to become active lifelong learners.

The Minister of Finance, in his budgetary address, stated, “The government has committed forcefully and unambiguously to investing in the full development of our untapped human potential in an unassailable historical reality that is known to all Vincentians.” However, has the ULP government adequately tackled the barriers to learning that many of the nation’s children face? The New Democratic Party has laid the foundation in the quest for spiritual, economic, moral, social, cultural and environmental development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Indeed, we continue to make education of our citizens the highest priority.

Accordingly, we must rid the education system of the inefficiencies which plague the teaching and learning process, and make education and learning a lifelong process.

Literacy and numeracy are the gateway to future learning, and it is inextricably linked to better employability and upward mobility.

There is no doubt that literacy and numeracy continue to affect many students. It is of concern that many students moving from primary to secondary level have not sufficiently mastered the 3 R’s (Reading, wRiting and aRithmetic). Poor Literacy and numeracy skills at the primary level are inextricably linked to the worsening of these problems at the secondary level and beyond. However, in the estimates for 2019, only a miserly amount of $40,000 allocated to improving reading from Kindergarten to Grade 3. It is important that we recognize, that for the notion of, ‘no child will be left behind’ to be reality, that attendance is not enough, but that each individual learning to read, write and calculate is required for success. This is absolutely necessary throughout the education system.

There is the need to make serious provisions to embark on a national literacy and numeracy campaign to tackle the problem; thus providing our youths with opportunities for positive outcomes. We must recognize that the various stages of education operate as an eco-system. Weaknesses and deficiencies at one level, if not properly handled or resolved, only worsen the problem at the next level.

Dr. Didacus Jules laid it out plainly when he stated, “Put simplistically, poor childhood development leads to weak primary performance which in turn translates into stunted secondary achievement which leads to mediocrity in tertiary education.”

Thus, we must have the political will and creativity to formulate innovative and bold strategies to strengthen our efforts at all stages of the education system to achieve positive outcomes.

A study commissioned by the World Bank of twelve (12) secondary schools

in 2011, showed that a high percentage of students entering the secondary system were reading below the required standard. Indeed, the problem is still evident today. Since the problem was not effectively treated; and the corrective remedial curriculum program delivered, optimized and assessed, we are faced with the series of interconnected deficiencies and weaknesses to overcome at the higher levels.

Meanwhile, an examination of the results of the national diagnostic tests offered to students at Grades 2 and 4 in English and Mathematics over the years highlight the problems faced. It shows the higher the grade level, the lesser successes students attain in the areas of Mathematics and English.

Undeniably, in many of our primary schools, many students are struggling to achieve success in Mathematics and English language. The truth is that literacy and numeracy levels in our primary schools are unsatisfactory.

This can contribute to further problems, mediocrity or failure throughout the education system.

The Caribbean Examiner, a publication of CXC, highlighted the struggles some of the youths in the region face to achieve success. In the recent edition, we become acutely aware of the consequences faced as a result of weak literacy skills. One youth acknowledged, “I was not a very good reader and it caused a lot of difficulties in class, because I didn’t want to be teased and judged by my peers. Many days I would skip classes by faking an asthma attack. I would then go and hang out with friends because they would not make fun of me because of my reading problems.”

Eventually, he dropped out of school at age 14. We must be cognizant, that as a small developing country, helping our young people to stay in and complete their formal education is a worthwhile objective.

Many students at the secondary level find it difficult to achieve success at Mathematics and English at the regional examination (CSEC). In fact, many students do not get the opportunity to write Mathematics or English being barred by the school they attend. This is mainly due to difficulties faced with numeracy and literacy. Yet the pass percentage attained in these subject areas in some schools are below par. Of the 1647 entrants for the CSEC examination by St. Vincent and the Grenadines for 2018, 1461 were entered for English and 1305 for Mathematics. Hence 186 and 342 students did not get the opportunity to write English and Mathematics respectively.

Of the 26 secondary schools, 17 obtained a pass percentage of less than 50 % in Mathematics, with only 9 schools recording pass percentage above 50 %. Although, it was the reversed for English A; nine schools received pass percentage below 50 % and 17 schools recording pass percentage above 50 %, the percentage pass rate at too many of our secondary schools are at 20 % range and below. Indeed, we must do better by implementing (i) targeted intervention for students who have weak literacy and numeracy skills and (ii) school wide reforms that are designed to enhance the teaching and learning environment.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 11.

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Memories From the Staircase

“Young people need something stable to hang on to — a culture connection, a sense of their own past, a hope for their own future. Most of all, they need what grandparents can give them.” – Jay Kesler (Born 1935). He is the former president, Chancellor and current President Emeritus of Taylor University in Upland, Indiana.

GRANDPARENTS CAN OFTEN BE DESCRIBED as “prized possessions” to those fortunate to have them around.

Many may not have material wealth to leave to their children or grandchildren.

Despite working very hard during their childhood, adolescence, and adult life, many experience misfortunes of such magnitude that they literally have no physical possessions to will, as they enter their retirement. There could be a host of reasons for this. Investments could have gone bad; medical bills could have rid them of their savings; the insurance policy that they anticipated would see them through their twilight years, could have vanished as insurance companies liquidated, and so on. When all is said and done, many may leave behind mere fond memories of the years gone by and the lives that they inspired while on this celestial globe. This was a fitting description of my maternal grandparents.

My bigger brother, Calvert (alias “Booty”) and I were born in Frenches on the outskirts of capital Kingstown in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Leslie (alias “Leso”) was born in Kingstown Park almost a decade later. The house where we (Booty and I) were born, still stands directly opposite the building that temporarily houses the Open Campus of the University of the West Indies. The building has changed its appearance over the years. Back in our day, the upper section of the two-storey building was made of wood. There was no plumbing in the upper floor that accommodated the living room and two bedrooms. There was pipe-borne water in the kitchen on the ground floor and in the shower that was located across from the kitchen. The water always appeared to be beastly cold back then.

This was especially so during the early morning hours (before the sun heated the galvanise pipes that ran on the surface of the grassless yard leading to the house). Granny’s shop had a lone pipe that was used for a variety of shoprelated tasks such as washing utensils and facilitating the mixing of her famous mauby. We had no indoor toilets then. We had to make do with the small, wooden outdoor latrine, having first inspected the immediate surrounding to confirm that there were no red ants or centipedes in the vicinity.

Both of these little creatures found comfort in residing in the cracks in the wood. However, my fondest memories and many of my early lessons in life, occurred while I sat on the staircase leading from the ground floor to the second floor of the building.

My step-grandfather, Arthur Billinghurst, was an especially gifted artisan. He had made a significant contribution to the very special parasol (umbrella) that the colony (we were not then an independent state) had presented to Princess Margaret when she visited St. Vincent on 8th February 1955. His workshop was located directly beside the staircase. As children, we therefore had a bird’s eye view of his operations as he repaired watches and clocks, melted silver coins to make wedding rings, and so on. He was a gentle, quiet, easy-going

gentleman whose attention to detail and meticulous approach to his various tasks impressed customers and observers like ourselves.

Grandpa Billy had a small but powerful magnified glass that was housed in a black casing that seemed to have been specially made to fit his eye socket. He used the muscles surrounding the socket to hold it in place. We were often mesmerized to observe him as he dismantled clocks and watches, placed the various parts in a special cleaning fluid, and then reassembled the tiny parts prior to our hearing the “tick-tock” sounds of the various time pieces. Grandpa was especially careful when cleaning, repairing, or replacing the mainsprings of these now obsolete time pieces. Many lessons emerged from observing him perform such tasks. While some customers may have concluded that these instruments were beyond repair, and ready to be discarded, grandpa always seemed to have a “can do” approach. Today, memories of his determination, his persistence, remind us tha, even when a task may appear to be beyond us, there may still be reason to hope. We should not be too ready to discard things that may appear to be broken. The same applies to people and relationships. It is possible that many that appear ready to be discarded can be repaired.

My maternal grandmother, Iris Billinghurst, was gifted at multitasking (even before the expression became popular). She managed her small shop; made artificial flowers using coloured paper and wire; cooked for the family, friends, and strangers; and kept and eye and an ear out for her household. She once gave me a good spanking with the “tunner stick” (the wooden spoon that was used to mix her famous mauby) when she overhead me using some “indecent language” while sitting on the staircase. The several spanks on the “fleshy part of my posterior” seemed to trigger extra energy from my legs as I scampered up the staircase to the bedroom, where I was confined for most of the remainder of the day to contemplate my misdeed. To this day, I cannot recall ever repeating those words. I am forever grateful.

Observing both grandparents from my vantage point at the staircase provided early lessons in caring for others and lending a helping hand where necessary. In both their businesses they stressed honesty and fairness. In their own way, they seemed always willing to give of themselves.

This was not only true in relation to the sacrifices that they made for family members, but also especially so in relation to passing strangers. Granny always cooked extra food “just in case a hungry person passed by” … and they often did. Grandpa would spend numerous hours working on “impossible projects” with resounding determination and focus (and sometimes without pay).

They both gave of their talent, their time, and their little treasure. Their legacies are enshrined in my memories from the staircase.

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

Sugar and salt are deadly killers OVER THE LAST 2 DECADES, Vincentians have experienced a chronic increase inweight and a deadly upward spiral in lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, lung and heart ailments as well as young persons who were forced to remove a leg to preserve their lives.

Over the years, Plain Talk has alerted nationals that sickness and death can be avoided if we keep our body hydrated, follow good nutritional practices and make a conscious effort to reduce stress. If we cut the daily intake of food by half, exercise at least three times per week and drink no less than 40 ounces of water per day, we will be well on our way. A good practice to adopt is to stop eating anything that comes out of a can.

Preserved or processed they are packed with salt and sugar and are sapping our energy and killing us slowly.

We know that a good and healthy lifestyle is hard to adopt. The popular culture that drums into our heads that we are going to die anyway because something will kill us. Those of us who attempt to watch what we eat, are reminded that at best we will die from nothing.

There is a reason we crave overly sweetened and excessively salty foods or snacks. And it’s not entirely our fault. Many common snack foods have been expertly engineered to keep us addicted, almost constantly craving more of whatever falsely satisfying manufactured treat is in front of us.

Humans have an inherited preference for energy-rich foods like fats and sugars. Science has established that natural selection has predisposed us to foods high in sugar and fat. Food scientists know this and create ingredients that are far higher in fat and sugar than occur in nature.

The most common such sugar is highfructose corn syrup which has been proven to be highly addictive.

Foods that never used to be sweet, like pasta sauce, are now artificially sweetened to keep consumers craving the product. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is found in everything from ketchup and salad dressing to cereal and breads — foods that aren’t necessarily perceived as sweet.

So what’s so bad about HFCS, the ingredient so essential to the aisles of our supermarket? A tablespoon of the super sweet stuff packs in roughly 53 calories, 14.4 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of sugar, while an entire corn has about 123 calories. It’s much easier to ingest extra, empty calories when they’re processed down to a sugary additive, which enhances the flavour of processed foods.

As an ingredient, HFCS was shown in a 2013 study to be as addictive as drugs, like cocaine or heroin, with salt proven to be similarly addictive, opioid-like qualities. Australian neuroscientist Craig Smith has studied the effect of salt cravings in humans for years, concluding that eating excessive amounts of sodium makes people crave salt more, and those who eat less junk food can benefit from lower salt cravings and therefore fewer of the negative effects associated with too much salt consumption.

Even if a food isn’t overly salty, salt may sneak into packaged food more rampantly than expected. Salt is used as a preservative to give food extended shelf life and keep food safe.

Salt is also used to enhance a food’s

colour (such as making the crust of bread a more appealing golden brown), as well as a flavour enhancer in foods we may not associate with saltiness.

It is universally established and recognized that Salt is extremely addictive, just as much as sugar. The more you consume salt, the more you crave it, and food manufacturers realize this. They continue to add salt to foods because they want us to continue to purchase their products.

It doesn’t matter if the salt is white, pink, sea salt or crystallized — it all has the same effect on one’s body. Packaging may lead us to think that certain salts are healthier, but, truly they are all the singular thing that is bad in excess: Salt.

Beyond overeating in general, eating too much salt is proven to have negative effects on human health.

Eating too much salt is not good for your health, because the extra water that you hold on to raises your blood pressure. The more salt you eat, the higher your blood pressure. All of this can put a strain on our heart, kidneys, brain and arteries, which could lead to a stroke, heart attack or kidney disease. And yet, we are becoming increasingly casually addicted to the stuff.

While addictive drugs like cocaine and heroin are illegal, we currently have no regulations on the amounts of sugar, sweeteners and salt that can be added to foods available to the public.

This reality underlies the looming public health crises of obesity and related illnesses.

A significant percentage of our people are overweight or affected by obesity, a condition closely associated with heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer and premature death. And even armed with this knowledge, too many of us are regularly lured in by food that is designed to be hard to resist.

Making items highly palatable is just the beginning. Pumping food full of sugar to the person with the sweet tooth is what junk food companies strive for. Sugar releases dopamine, the feel-good hormone in the brain, which associates the sugary food with pleasure — causing the body to crave more. That feel-good sensation will keep you hooked on certain foods, which will bring instant comfort when consumed.

Scent can play a part in the emotional attachment to food.

Associating food with pleasure keeps humans addicted even further to the foods engineered with excessive sugar, salt and fat to keep you craving more.

How can we stop the growing addiction to food? Choose moderation for foods that you think could be highly addictive for you. Make sure you are consuming a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. When grocery shopping, read nutrition labels and avoid foods with high sodium and sugar content. Truth is, nothing that kills is terribly important. Food, like sex is highly overrated.

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

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12. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Open Letter to His Excellency The Governor General mercury and arsenic) contained in the liquid streams generated during the exploration, stimulation and production phases, may poison surface or groundwater and harm local THE PROPOSED geothermal plant is a vegetation. risk to our drinking water and Boron toxicity has a negative effect agriculture. The environmental effects on the metabolic functions of plants. may be temporary or irreversible, and The boron toxicity can cause a reduced may include changes to the landscape yield in plants, owing to the plant and land use, by gases emissions into tissues death and reduced the atmosphere, on surfaces and photosynthetic activity due to the high subsurface water, land subsidence and level of boron. seismic activity.

Fluids emerging from the A research paper about geothermal geothermal area often contain high in Turkey outlines the possible boron concentrations and cause environmental consequences. environmental problems for irrigation Air and chemical pollution can be: waters in agricultural areas, where • Hydrogen Sulphide and its boron contaminates aquifers and soils. derivatives (H2S) are emitted, causing Heavy metals are often found in a bad smell and acid rain; water samples of drilled wells. They • Emitted carbon dioxide (CO2) and can contaminate fresh water sources H2S are heavy gases and can linger, or surface water. To a certain extent causing increased pollution for local they enter our bodies by contaminated people who live close to the geothermal water used in vegetable cultivation, plant; via animal food products, via drinking • Radioactive element radon, toxic water and by the air. elements arsenic, mercury, ammonia, Heavy metals are also dangerous for boron and other polluting heavy humans because they tend to biometals; accumulate, i.e., increase in • Waste steam is normally sprayed concentration in human bodies over over surrounding vegetation, while time. They damage the central nervous waste water is pumped into streams system and cause loss of memory, and river untreated, as treatment is severe trembling, respiratory considered too costly to be problems, birth defects, heart economically viable. disorders and other health issues.

Dissolved minerals (e.g., boron, Energy security and food security in 2nd April 2019 Your Excellency, Re: Geothermal is a risk to our drinking water and agriculture

SVG are needed for us to have economic security and national security. Therefore, it is necessary for SVG to reject the high risk geothermal project and turn to safer, simpler and cheaper energy sources such as the renewable energy of solar and wind.

The SVG Parliament should pass legislation to: (a) give the authority to build a further two hydro-electric power plants on the Colonarie river; (b) mandate that VINLEC disclose every month the statistic related to the purchase of diesel for production of electricity, and (c) cut the price of electricity to twenty-two cents per unit for private residential and domestic use, but retain the Fuel Surcharge tariff. This would shut out the need for the dangerous geothermal power plant in SVG. The SVG Parliament should also pass legislation for zero tax and customs duty on all solar and wind equipment, so private households and

businesses can import such equipment and generate electricity themselves.

This would help Vincentians reduce their electricity bill and / or create a source of income.

Geothermal is an unnecessary risk to our drinking water and agriculture.

The project should be abolished.

Yours faithfully, Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA. Leader of SVG Green Party CC: The Hon Prime Minister of SVG The Hon Leader of the Opposition of SVG SVG Christian Council SVG Chamber of Industry and Commerce

Lack of maturity impeding our development EVEN AS WE celebrate forty years of being an independent state, we must admit that the broad based exhibition of lack of maturity — “small mindedness” - has prevented us from reaching the level of societal development which in the 1970s, we seemed to have had our minds set on.

There are some who have been trying to say that the reason for the level of the desired development not having been met, was entirely blameable on the British, who did not leave us with a sufficiency of resources, but instead, handed us a constitution which inhibited us.

But, indeed, an examination of our circumstances will show that we could have been better off many times over if we had been prudent in the management of our resources. It cannot be disputed that the roads serving the agriculture sector, used to be addressed in a serious way by the British so that all the productive valleys were accessible by vehicle.

Today, those roads have been in a state of disrepair for decades, despite the fact that this government had pledged to launch an aggressive road repair programme in 2001. The farming community is still waiting on them!

So it is clearly not true, that the British are to be blamed for our continued economic stagnancy. The main reason is our “wutless mismanagement” which has caused us to lose billions of dollars, which could have been earned from bananas and arrowroot, for which there is a market. And on top of that, we are now importing hundreds of millions of dollars worth of vegetables which we once exported. The ULP government cannot be exonerated!

Because of this mismanagement, the farming community has been so badly crippled, that it can offer no solid hope to the hundreds of young,

bright and intelligent people who have the skills and ideas, to use agricultural activity to provide a good platform for personal development.

The authorities have been talking glibly about encouraging entrepreneurs; but how can young entrepreneurs succeed if the economy suffers prolonged stagnation? That regular income from agriculture is needed now.

All those of us who have in any way participated in this mismanagement, or who have remained indifferent and unmoved, even when we were aware that things were not “going right”, should be prepared to accept the wrath which could come when the people are aroused!

In the fight against crime, in the pursuit of economic development of the people; in the advancement of their interests in health; we need the active conscientious involvement of more citizens. The ULP government, the opposition NDP, the Green Party, and all the rest of us have to be involved.

The obvious shutting out of the Honourable Pattel Matthews, from that function relating to the commissioning of the important health facility, in the constituency of which he is the elected representative, is a classic example of the immaturity, the small mindedness, which has been a predominant factor impeding the progress of this richly endowed land.

Clearly, it was an affront to the people of those villages who have been valiantly bearing-up under the pressure of neglect for decades. In that exposition in Chateaubelair, the administrators did themselves no honour, and what in fact was on show, was our lack of maturity.

LeRoy Providence

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 13.

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14. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Bequia Focus

Bequia Easter Regatta ready to set sail THE 39TH EDITION of the Bequia Easter Regatta, said to be one of the larger regattas in the Caribbean, is expected to be as exciting and entertaining as it has been over its long history.

The 2019 Regatta gets going on Thursday 18t April and climaxes on Monday 22nd.

At a news conference last Tuesday, used to launch this year’s Regatta activities , Chris Kaye — Chairman of the Bequia Sailing Club Committee, host and organizer of the Regatta, described the event as “two regattas running in parallel.

We have the yachts involved in the conventional regatta, racing over the four days of Easter… but we also have running in parallel with the yachts, a series of races for the traditional fishing boats.”

The races for traditional fishing boats are significant since they highlight the boatbuilding, sailing and fishing traditions of Bequia, Kaye said.

In fact, patrons agree that the Bequia Regatta is the one

place to experience local Double Enders to Windward Island Sloops, J24’s and fishing boats involved in the same sailing activity.

Addressing the press conference, Cecil Mc Kie, Minister of Tourism, described the Easter activities as a “big thing” that forms “a very important part of the cultural menu of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

He underscored the importance of establishing the Onshore (Activities) Management Committee to give planning and organization to onshore activities so that they complement the offshore activities.

Acting Chairperson of the Onshore (Activities) Management Committee Rochelle Tannis - said that this year’s activities will be hosted under the theme: ‘The greatest miracles’, with the programme kicking off with a Gospel Fest.

Other activities include: a swimming meet; an Iron Man

Bequia overjoyed with whale catch Continued from Page 2.

Sailing action in the Bequia Regatta is filled with tense competition among the sailors from all over the world. (Credit: grahamwiffenphotography.com) race; model boat racing; Easter Egg hunt; an ECGC Bake Off Competition’, and a Family Day at Lower Bay. Tannis stressed that a ‘No Bottle’ policy will be strictly enforced.

Among the major benefactors of the 2019 Regatta are: St.

Vincent Distillers (Sparrow’s Premium Rum), FLOW, St. Vincent Brewery, Plantation Hotel, Action Bequia, Darnley Frederick, Dockside Marine and the Tourism Authority whose involvement includes the marketing of the event in the region. (KH)

In accordance with a decision of the International Whaling Commission (IWC), of which St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a member, this country is allowed to catch a maximum of four whales per annum, which our associate said has not been “done for quite some time now.”

Whaling in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is classified by the IWC as an aboriginal, cultural and historical practice and not a commercial undertaking.

That taken, it would be safe to conclude, said our associate, that “Ms. Mitchell and the government are on a collision course, saved only by a whale between them.”

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 15.

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16. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

HANDS ACROSS THE SEA: Making a difference in SVG

HANDS ACROSS THE SEA, an American-based NGO dedicated to the advancement of child literacy in the Eastern Caribbean, has sent 18,872 new amazing library books to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and

opened eleven new school libraries across the country, during the 20182019 school year.

The schools referred are: Bequia SDA Primary School, Bequia SDA Secondary School, Biabou Methodist

Primary School, Evesham Methodist School, Kingstown Preparatory School, Lowmans Leeward Anglican School, Marriaqua Government School, New Grounds Primary School, North

Union Secondary School, Richland Park SDA Primary School, and Westwood Methodist School.

The initiative’s major sponsors include the Mustique Charitable Foundation, the

Students in the Evesham Methodist School library, one of 11 libraries made possible through the efforts of Hands Across the Sea. Whitehead Foundation, the Ladera Foundation, Scotiabank Community Program, Palm Island Resort & Spa, and the John and Margaret Sagan Foundation.

In addition, Hands Across the Sea supplied targeted reading books for school libraries at Colonaire Primary School, C.W. Prescod Primary School, Mary Hutchinson Primary School, Questelles Government School, South Rivers Methodist Primary School, and Stephanie Browne Primary School.

In addition, Remedial Reading Toolkits were provided to eight St. Vincent secondary schools: Adelphi Secondary, Bequia Community High, Emmanuel High, Georgetown Secondary, Intermediate High, Mountain View Adventist Academy, and St. Clair Dacon Secondary, all funded by the Mustique Charitable Foundation, and Buccament Bay Secondary School, funded

by Scotiabank Community Programme.

A special thank you “Hands Across the Sea wishes to thank our valued partners in child literacy – the individual and corporate donors who funded new books and supported the work of our Hands Literacy Links, and the companies who rebuilt library spaces to help turn them into vibrant centers of discovery and learning,” said Harriet Linskey, CoFounder of the organization. “We also want to commend the efforts of Enna Bullock and Yvette Pompey, our two Hands Literacy Links for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The tireless support of school staff by these programme officers has resulted in more children than ever becoming engaged with books, reading, and their school library.” Together the St. Vincent Literacy

Links have trained over 200 children as Student Librarians.

Primary schools in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have also received Hands Across the Sea’s groundbreaking 179-page Teachers Resource Guide to the Library (Grades K-3), the just-revised Hands Library Manual for Primary Schools, and the updated Hands Student Librarian Handbook. All resources are free and downloadable from the Hands website (www.handsacrossthesea. net).

Since the organization’s founding in 2007, Hands Across the Sea has assisted 92 schools and reading programmes, sent 99,160 asked-for books, and given 21,500 Vincentian children access to topquality, appropriate books and literacy support materials.

Harriet Linskey, CoFounder of the organization, said that “Hands Across the Sea wishes to thank “our valued partners in child literacy – the individual and corporate donors who funded new books and supported the work of our Hands Literacy Links, and the companies who rebuilt library spaces to help turn them into vibrant centers of discovery and learning.”

Special recognition was given to Enna Bullock and Yvette Pompey, the two Hands Literacy Links for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the schools’ staff.

Together the St. Vincent Literacy Links have trained over 200 children as Student Librarians.

The organization works in Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada. To date, Hands Across the Sea has served 352 schools with over 464,000 books, reaching 103,700 children. (Contributed)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

Climate change anthem launched THE UN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME’S JapanCaribbean Climate Change Partnership (JCCCP) officially launched a song on March 28, aimed at educating members of the public on the issue of climate change.

The song, titled ‘Climate Action’, was written by Adrian Wright and Damion McTair, and performed by Wright and Danielle Veira.

Penny Bowens, Communications Associate, UNDP Sub-regional Office for Barbados and the OECS, Penny Bowens, explained that when JCCCP Communications was launched in eight Associate, UNDP Caribbean countries back in Sub-regional Office 2016, a knowledge and for Barbados and attitudes study was the OECS, conducted. explained the And in that study, process that Vincentians were asked what informed the they knew about climate approach to change, in an effort to better creating educational understanding the attitudes, /awareness-building behaviour and practices of material for use in people as it related to St. Vincent and the climate change.

Grenadines.

Using data from that study, a communications strategy was developed, Bowens said.

“And we have been directed by the research,” she added.

The feedback provided by Vincentians, showed

that they preferred to be informed using creative methods, and that they wanted to see people and scenery with which they were familiar. The accompanying video to the song depicted this.

Wright explained that the song took about one month to put together.

He said that he had to do some research, and that while he wanted to make the song ‘catchy’ and simple, he had to ensure that the material was accurate.

Nyasha Hamilton of the Sustainable Development Unit within the Ministry of Finance said that the song went through a series of tests and reviews before its launch.

She said that it had to be checked to make sure that the information contained was in fact correct.

It was also played for a pool of individuals of

Adrian Wright – co-writer of the song – emphasized his attention to ensuring accuracy of the lyrics. various ages, and it was received well, Hamilton said.

But while it was anticipated that most radio stations would include the song in their playlist, Hamilton said that the song would become the official song for the climate change campaign, and will be played at events where the issue is the focus. (DD)

2019 Digicel Gospel Fest opens this Sunday The 17th edition of Digicel SVG Gospel Fest

Caywama Edwards – one of many local artistes who will feature on Sunday.

will be officially opened here this Sunday, April 7th, 2019 at the Victoria Park from 6.00 pm.

The festival, since its inception in 2013, has become a major event on the national calendar, and showcases Vincentian gospel expressions in music, song, dance and drama.

Sunday evening’s programme will feature outstanding local gospel artistes such as Caywama Edwards, Ronnie Richardson, Stacey Little, Rooted Methodist Dance Ministry and Dunamis Dance Warriors. The guest artiste for the show will be international gospel artiste Joel ‘Positive’ Murray from Trinidad .

Addresses will come from the chairman of the

Gospel Fest Committee, Pastor Manson Shortte; Fanta Williams, Country Manager of Digicel.

Hon. Cecil Mc Kie — Minister of Culture, will officially declare the festival open.

Following the opening this Sunday, the festival will continue with activities throughout the month: SVG TCCU “Dance Praise” on April 12th; Standard Shippers Inc. “Band Praise” on April 14th; “Zonal Gospel Showcases” across the country from April 19th to 21st; the Sing A New Joel ‘Positive’ Murray Song Competition on Trinidadian Gospel April 26th, and the Reggae Star – is the National Gospel billed act at this Showcase on April 28th.

Sunday’s launch.

Digicel SVG Gospel Fest 2019 is being held the Gospel of Jesus under the theme: “A Christ”. (Source: Gospel Glorious Celebration of Fest Committee)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05 , 2019. 19.

Tribute

Vincent Bacchus: The Caribbean PeopleÊs Ambassador A Tribute from the Rainbow Radio League J85B ALSO KA2CPA were the Ham radio callsigns used by Vincent “Vince” Bacchus … fondly know as the Caribbean Peoples’ Ambassador, Vince has passed on to a greater calling, having served the Vincentian/Caribbean community at home and abroad with distinction.

The suddenness of death, especially when it is a family member or close friend can numb your feelings and upset your thoughts as you try to reminisce on the good times passed and the loss at the same time. So it is as I pen these words to publicly pay respects to an Honorary and foundation member of the Rainbow Radio League Inc.- RRL. Twenty-four years ago when the RRL was launched at the Red Cross HQ, Vince, who had already been resident in the US for

many moons, was guest of Honour at that launch.

He and Kerwin Morris J85A (SK) were the guiding lights during the formative years of the RRL. Vince was also the first contact made when a five-man team journeyed to the top of Mt. St. Andrews and announced to world the RRL was formed in January of 1995. Vince answered the call from his New York home where he controlled the world famous 20Meter Net called the CARIBUS CONNECTION, conducted every Sunday on 14. 283 Mhz from 7 to 8 AM, attracting checkins from virtually all over the world.

Vince was an efficient and friendly net controller and a household name especially among Caribbean Hams. When

Caribbean Hams learnt of his passing, it triggered spontaneous messages of condolences on the daily regional radio networks, an indication of the important role played by this fine, mannerly and knowledgeable gentleman.

But it was not only in the field of Ham radio that Vince made his mark. Vince was among the chief among the persons responsible for the establishment of the Police Telecoms VHF network. He also set up the first commercial paging service in St. Vincent; the VHF repeater site in Bequia now used by the RRL, was the ‘home’ for his paging repeater.

Many Vincentian and Caribbean Hams were the beneficiaries of his philanthropy. My first

Tribute to Vincent L. Bacchus

by Bernard Wyllie VINCENT L. BACCHUS was a humble man who had a great sense of humour. He was a foundation member and first President of the Progressive Organization of New York Inc. He was a fixture on the Executive Body of SPOONY and served in various capacities in the organization, including President, Vice-President, and Treasurer, and up to the time of his passing, he was one of the Trustees.

Vincent Bacchus (right) accepts a certificate Bacchus held a wealth of of Honour from then President of the NDP institutional knowledge of the Arnhim Eusatce, during a function held in New Democratic Party of St. January 2015, in New York.

Vincent and the Grenadines and especially within SPOONY. colleagues bestowed on him.

He was a long-standing and vocal Mr. Vincent L. Bacchus served his member of SVG NDP, a daily listener country as a police officer, mainly in to the Party’s programs as well as the Radio and Telecommunications Nice Radio, and a frequent contributor Department. He was a technician and to its call-in programs. an avid Ham radio operator.

He was highly respected for his He was predeceased by his wife of keen interest in addressing matters 62 years, Gloria Janet Bacchus who relative to the advancement of St. passed away on January 24, 2019 and Vincent and the Grenadines. He was also two of his sons, Nick and Anthony always prompt, and paid rapt ‘Code Red’. attention to the details of every cause, He leaves behind two remaining whether it was to attend meetings, or sons, Lancelot and Andre, eight any event hosted by SPOONY — he grandchildren and eleven great would always be the first to arrive. grandchildren, relatives, loved ones Brother B (as he was so and friends. He will be laid to rest on affectionately called), was a person on April 4, 2019 in Queens, New York. whom everyone could depend. He was He will be dearly missed. Rest in highly appreciative of the respect his Peace, Brother B.

HF SSB radio was a gift from Vince as were other Vincentian radio operators. As radio amateurs, more often than not, whenever we upgraded our equipment we would pass on our equipment or sell at giveaway prices to friends in the hobby/service.

Vince will be missed, but will be remembered

by Caribbean hams as having run the course with distinction. The entire RRL joins in extending heartfelt Contributed by: condolences to his Donald De Riggs children and extended Director-RRL Inc. family.

A much younger Vincent Bacchus doing what he loved best – staying in contact with the world.

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20. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Coming back to haunt you Dear George MY GIRLFRIEND left me high and dry for my Ex. I introduced her to my present girlfriend when we were just friends.

Things happened and I ended leaving her for my present girlfriend. My Ex vowed revenge, but I thought she would worm her way into my relationship by getting intimate with my girl, and now she has her totally to herself.

To this day, I do not know what happened or how it happened. I’m just embarrassed to be on the losing end of all this. I’m not sure whether I should go after her or just take my licks and move on.

Twisted Dear Twisted, Life has a way of reminding us that

the foolish decisions we make, come back to haunt us. The decision of your girlfriend to hook up with your Ex was most likely a mixture of revenge on the part of your ex, and the possible acting out of a deeply embedded fantasy to be with the opposite sex.

Whatever it is, they have successfully carved you out of the picture, and it’s wise for you to see this as an opportunity to start afresh.

It is instructive to know that whenever you start or leave a relationship, it must be for the right reasons.

George

You have a choice Dear George, I RAN INTO my boyfriend at a restaurant having lunch with one of his female co-workers.

He claimed it was an innocent lunch, but he is yet to explain why they were drinking from the same glass, and why she fed him rice several times. The last time I

checked, my boyfriend does not have a handicap.

Angry birdie Dear Angry birdie Surely, an innocent lunch would not entail the actions you have described, and it sure has the resemblance of something of a deeper

attachment.

It’s either your boyfriend comes clean and throw himself at the mercy of your court, or risk collecting his relationship pink slip.

The choice is yours, whether you see enough in him to want to work things through or move on to better.

George

My sex machine is too much Dear George, THERE IS NO way I am going to put up with my boyfriend wanting me to give it up, on average, 3 times day, every day of the week. To be honest, one of the reasons I chose to be with him, was he told me he was a sex machine and broke off his last relationship because of lack of sex.

On hearing this, I thought I finally found a man who is ‘alive’ and well. It seems now that I bargained for too much.

I am not able to handle this bedroom monster, and he is not one to accept NO for an answer. He is too much for me but I don’t want to lose him; only for him to tone down a bit. Do you think I’m asking for too much?

Water more than flour.

issue, so as to arrive, if possible, at a compromise. It would even be better if both of Your boyfriend gave you more than a hint as you see a counsellor as this problem could be to what he was about. easily carried over into You failed to seek marriage and cause further clarification or details before deciding to unnecessary problems for jump into bed with him. you both.

Both of you need to discuss this all important George

Dear Water more than flour,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Tempers may flare if you haven't been completely honest about your intentions or your whereabouts. Family members will not be happy with the amount of time you are spending away from home.

Take care of yourself or you can expect to suffer from minor illness.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Be sure to take time for old friends or relatives you don't get to see that often.

Your lover may be annoyed if you have been flirtatious or not attentive to their needs. Don't expect anything for nothing and you won't be disappointed.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Stay mellow. You will gain a lot if you listen. You could find yourself having problems with coworkers and employers. You may want to make changes that will not be to their liking.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Don't blow situations out of proportion.

Do something together and you'll be surprised how sweet a deal you can make. You are best to avoid joint ventures, and whatever you do, don't lend to friends or relatives.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Make sure that you have covered yourself legally and try not to let your temper get out of hand. Avoid friends or acquaintances who drink too much. You need to be careful not to make promises that you can't fulfill.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You may want to make drastic changes concerning your personal partner. Your tendency to dramatize may be a little much for your partner to take constantly.

Help with your aspirations is likely, and profits could follow.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Talk about your intentions and confirm that you both feel the same way. Social activity should be on your agenda this week. Driving too fast or double parking will result in difficulties with officials.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Make changes that will heighten your appeal. Your family may not be pleased with your decisions. Be ready to explain your actions. Your financial situation may be draining and it's time to make some serious changes.

Leo (July 23‐Aug 22) You will have a great day if you just say what you feel. Catch up on your correspondence and reading. Don't be afraid to say what's on your mind. Put your thoughts on paper.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Be extra careful with your valuables; loss and theft are evident this week. Don't let others take advantage of your good nature. Be sure to get involved in self‐ improvement programs that will bring you in contact with interesting people.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Someone you live with could be frustrated and upset. You will be appreciated for the competence you exhibit and for taking on responsibilities.

Don't count on your friends to be loyal when it comes to doing things. Make a point of working on yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation.

Don't turn down offers that include sports activities or children. Relatives will not agree with the way you are dealing with your personal problems.

ACROSS 1. Savored almonds or apricots 4. “M*A*S*H” star 8. Hefty branch 12. Round speck 13. Typical lunch hour 14. Lake near Cleveland 15. Food coloring 16. Reminds continuously 17. Mental powers 18. Stormy forecast 20. Midriff areas 22. Bert’s Muppet chum 24. Spider‐fashioned snares 25. Jail‐release money 26. Challenge 27. Show grief 30. Tiny piece 31. Fiction book 32. Weed chopper 33. Under‐handed 34. Carried debt 35. Relate 36. Care for 37. Care for 37. Live (in) 38. Least conventional 41. Shoe insert 42. Ply a peeler 43. Like some medication 45. Boxing legend 48. Physics study 49. Sported (clothing) 50. Coop resident 51. Pool circuits 52. Requirement 53. Sermon topic DOWN 1. Find a sum 2. Nursery plaything

3. Endless span 4. Marks‐woman Oakley 5. Bank transaction 6. Faithful animal 7. Replied 8. Comic Jerry 9. Eye segment 10. Kitchen glove 11. First Lady Truman 19. Be unhealthy 21. Biblical brother 22. Grows weak 23. Track section 24. Fluttered 26. Urban locale 27. Swift cats

28. Revolve 29. Scream (at) 31. Verbal denials 35. Half of four 36. Swarms (with) 37. Gave (out) 38. Whitish jewel

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 21.

39. Computer info 40. Plummet 41. Taxi fee 44. Cod eggs 46. Hula necklace 47. Rustic lodge

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22. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports Feature

Cricket World Cup – 2019

2011) have won the trophy two times participated in all previous each, and Pakistan (1992) and Sri competitions and never won the trophy. They have been losing finalists Lanka (1996) once each.

WITH JUST TWO on three occasions.

In essence, only five teams have or so months secured the silverware. Afghanistan, before the start History of the World Cup Bangladesh, England, New Zealand of the 12th and South Africa are all seeking their edition of the first crown.

The inaugural World Cup ICC Cricket Another point of interest is the tournament in 1975 involved eight World Cup (May teams playing only 15 matches, each reduction from 60 overs to 50 overs per 30 to July 14, innings. This change came in 1987. side allotted 60 overs per innings.

Clive Lloyd lifts the 2019), Back then the players were dressed in Since then (1987-2015), all matches 1975 World Cup selectors of ten their Test uniform (whites). All were 100 overs.

Champions trophy In 1978, World Series Cricket matches were contested in daylight. following a captain’s of the twelve Test nations (WSC), owned by the Australian media There were no power plays and no winning knock of (Ireland and tycoon Kerry Packer, was laughed at fielding restrictions with circles. Live 102. (Credit: Zimbabwe the coverage was by radio only, with BBC by the traditionalists — the old sportskeeda.com) two absentees) broadcasters. Shortwave radios were establishment - when he introduced are busy finalizing their squads. No the order of the day. At age eighteen, I day/night matches with colour clothing matter what these national selectors do, was able to prepare for GCE and still and the white ball. It was referred to they will be criticized by journalists and as the pygama games. Now, ICC has follow commentaries. commentators. Each cricket enthusiast embraced many of his ideas.

Day/night matches and colour will have his or her opinion as well. Being clothing were not featured until the Packer’s marketing prowess far a selector is a thankless job. fifth World Cup in Australia and New outweighed most of his England, the host for the fifth time Zealand, in 1992. contemporaries. WSC lasted from 1977 (1975, 1979, 1983, 1999 and 2019), is to 1979. The main beneficiary was It was in that tournament South my favourite to win the trophy. They West Indies.

Africa made their first appearance, and New Zealand are the only teams having been readmitted to that have international cricket after a ban of West Indies – two titles 1975 twenty-two years (1970-1992).

The previous eleven World Forty-four years ago, on June 21, Joel Garner, 5 for Cups have been dominated by 1975, West Indies won the first final at 38, was simply Australia with five titles (1987, Lord’s versus Australia, by a margin of too much for the 1998, 2003, 2007 and 2015) and 17 runs. Inserted by Ian Chappell, hapless English twice (1975 and 1996) being W.I, made 291 for 8 wickets. Captain batsmen in the losing finalists.

West Indies Clive Lloyd, 102 off 85 balls, and 1979 final. (Credit: (1975, 1979) and India (1983, Rohan Kanhai, 55 off 105, balls, were skysports) the major contributors. They shared a 4th wicket partnership of 149. Gary Gilmour took 5 for 48.

Australia were all out for 274. Ian Chappell top-scored with 61. Keith Boyce captured 4 for 50. Viv Richards, who was disappointment with the bat, scoring only 5, was very effective in the field, accounting for three run outs.

Before this historic achievement, the W.I had played only two Limited Over Internationals (LOI) in England in 1973. In fact, Richards, Andy Roberts and Gordon Greenidge made their Limited Over (LO) debuts in the first tournament Beating Australia was a noble feat Australia and England were the two teams who got the ball rolling with ODI cricket in 1971.

by EARL W. ROBINSON

Collis King clobbered the English bowlers in the 1979 final, and left even his partner, Viv Richards, in awe. (Credit: wisden cricket monthly)

Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, Colin Croft and Joel Garner being the original foursome.

Desmond Haynes and Collis King were two new faces in the final eleven.

Gordon Greenidge, Ali, Kallicharran, Lloyd, Richards and Deryck Murray remained the core of the team that defeated England in the Final — June 23, 1979.

Sent in by Mike Brearley, the W.I. innings closed at 286 for 9. The Richards-King 5th wicket partnership of 139 off 126 balls in 77 minutes, stole the spotlight. Richards was named Man of the Match, but King deserved that accolade.

Richards scored 138 not out off 157 balls with eleven fours and three sixes.

King was dismissed for 86 off 66 balls, which included ten fours and three sixes. Richards was on 49 when King joined him at the crease with W.I. on 99 for 4.

England, in reply, were bowled out for 194. Garner bagged 5 wickets for 38 runs to secure a W.I. victory by 92 runs.

Prize – money

When this quadrennial extravaganza commenced 44 years ago, it could be said players were participating for fame, pride and peanuts.

In 1975, the victorious W.I. team received only 4,000 pounds. However, after Packer’s intervention in 1977, players’ remuneration increased tremendously. Since 1978, international cricketers are well rewarded for their efforts.

This year’s total prize-money is US$14 million dollars. The winner will The year 1979 receive US$4.8 million dollars, while the losing finalist will earn US$2.2 Four years later in 1979, England million dollars. hosted the tournament once again.

With incentives like these, I see no Canada replaced East Africa in te reasons why the W.I led by Jason eight-team event. This time, India and Holder should not be performing at New Zealand replaced Australia and their very best. It is forty years (1979Pakistan in W.I. group.

2019) since this region was in a By this time, WSC had been euphoric mood at the end of this disbanded, but the W.I had become a limited overs tournament. Like Richie professional unit after 18 months with Richardson and Brian Lara before Kerry Packer. During that time, the him, Holder has a second chance to lift four-pronged pace attack was formed — the trophy. He led the team in the 2015 competition.

Honestly speaking, I do not expect W.I. to win the title.

Improvements will have to be made in the fielding and bowling departments.

Besides, England, Australia, India, New Zealand and Pakistan are the favourites.

West Indies, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan may be considered Viv Richards (left) turned the 1975 final in as underdogs in this twelfth W.I. favour with his three run outs. edition.

(Credit: icc.ocm)

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 23.

SVGS, CLSS rule Secondary Schools Athletics KCCU St Vincent Grammar School – 2019 Champions of Inter Secondary Schools Athletics.

Rubis Central Leeward Secondary – repeat Female Champions of Inter Secondary Schools Athletics.

(SVGS), in taking the 2019 title, were doing so for the eighth consecutive year; and Rubis Central Leeward Secondary School, (CLSS), who took the Female title, were doing so for the third consecutive time.

KCCU SVGS, dominant in the relays, emassed a total of 376 on their way to victory, leaving St. Martin’s Secondary School trailing some distance in second on 208 points, Rubis CLSS third on 182 points, Thomas Saunders Secondary School (TSSS) fourth on 130 points and Bethel High School (BHS) fifth with 111 points.

Victor Ludorum Keo Davis of Female the SVGS accepts his trophy Champions Rubis

THE 2019 EDITION of the NLA Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championship, staged last week Thursday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, was a story of repeat winners.

In fact, the Male Champions, the KCCU St. Vincent Grammar School

from Anthony Dennie.

Zamesha Myle, Victrix Ludorum, accepts trophy Deborah Charles, Parliamentary Secretary Ministry of Education.

CLSS also registered a comfortable margin of victory when they totaled 365 points, well ahead of TSSS with 220 points.

KCCU Girls’ High School (GHS) took third place with 159 points, BHS fourth with 157, followed

by St, Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (SJCK) on 142 points.

Among the outstanding divisional performers were: Samaya Connell of the Georgetown Secondary School (GSS) — the Junior Female Champion with 35 points; Keo Davis of the KCCU SVGS — the Junior Male Champion with 42 points.

The Female Intermediate Champion was double recordbreaker Ulanda Lewis of Rubis CLSS with 34 points. (See accompanying story on this page). She also from made the qualification standard for the 2019 CARIFTA Games 100m and 200m in the Under 17 category. Verrol Sam of the KCCU SVGS was the Male Intermediate Champ. He totaled 40 points.

CARIFTA athlete Zamesha Myle of the TSSS ran away with the Senior Female Champion title with a mammoth 52 points. And 2018 CARIFTA gold medalist — Handel Roban made it a clean sweep of the Male Divisional titles for the SVGS, when he took the Senior Male Champion title with 37 points.

Myle has already qualified for the CARIFTA Games in the 400 meters.

Ulanda Lewis resets her own records ULANDA LEWIS reset two of her own records when the 2019 National Lotteries Authority Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championships (ISSAC) concluded last week Thursday, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Lewis, representing the Central Leeward Secondary School, bettered her times in the Intermediate 100 and 200m.

She clocked 12.33 seconds in the 100m, lowering her 12.35 seconds set at last year’s Championships.

She then returned in the 200 m to record a time of 25.30 seconds, 0.01 second faster than her time established last year.

But Lewis’ record of 13

seconds in the Junior Females 100m, set in 2017, was erased by Shonte Matthias of the Georgetown Secondary, with the new recording being 12.92 seconds.

Matthias attained her feat in the Heats.

Also going by the wayside was the Females 4 x 100m Intermediate Relay record, with the Central Leeward’s quartet setting the new mark of 50.83 seconds. The Bethel High School had the previous best time of 51.60 seconds, done in 2017.

New marks were also set in the Male and Female Juniors Discus.

The St Martin’s Secondary’s Jolano Joseph is the new holder. His throw of 27.96m, erased St Vincent Grammar School’s

Ulanda Lewis crossing the finish line in record- breaking time in the Female Intermediate 200m.

Omario Dick’s 24.32m established last year.

Anna Patterson of the St Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua established the new distance of 20.73m in the Female Discus, to better St Joseph’s Covent Marriaqua Clemicia Mc Intosh’s 2018 throw of 20.23m.

And, Amaia Edwards of the St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown equalled the Girls’ High School’s Sancho Lyttle’s 20-year record of 1.55m in the Female Intermediate High Jump.

In all, six records were broken and one was equalled.

Senior Female Champ Zamesha Myle was declared the Meet’s Victrix Ludorum, and Keo Davis, Junior Male Champ, the Victor Ludorum.

The Union Island Secondary School (UISS) won the March Past, followed by the Rubis CLSS.

The Georgetown Secondary was adjudged winner in the cheerleading routine and took home a purse of EC$1,000 for their effort. UISS was second and BHS third.

A total of 23 events were contested.

I.B.A.ALLEN

New Champ of SVGCC Athletics YEAR TWO ARTS, Sciences and General Studies are the new Track and Field champions at the SVG Community College.

They took the title with 359 points, when the 2019 QuickCash Corp.

National Lotteries SVG Community College Track and Odeshia John of Year One Field Finals were staged on Friday 29th Arts, Sciences and March, at the Arnos General Studies – Female Vale Playing Field.

Champ.

The Technical and Vocational Division took the second spot with 249 points.

Year One Arts, Sciences and General Studies placed third with a total of 225 points.

Odeshia John of Year One Arts, Sciences and General Studies was the Meet’s Female Champion. Her 40 points were helped by a win in the High Jump and second places in the 400m, 1500m and Long Jump.

Tilron Harry of Year Two Tilron Harry Arts, Sciences and of Year Two Arts, General Studies grabbed the Sciences and Male General Studies – Meet Champion award with 32 Male Champ. points, winning the Long Jump and placing second in the 200m and High Jump.

Two records were broken in Friday’s event. In the Female Division, Odeshia John bettered the old High Jump record of 1.40m set by Angel John in 2018, with a jump of 1.50m. In the Male division, Troy Archibald broke the 60m-dash record of 7.20 seconds set in 2017

by Raasikh John, with a sprint of 7.15 seconds.

The Technical and Vocational Division won the coveted cheerleading competition that entertained the patrons during the lunch break.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

24. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Tense battle in the First Division Final between Awesome FC and Greiggs FC last Saturday at the Chili Playing Field.

Awesome takes National 1st Division Football Title

Awesome FC’s players and management in celebratory mood last Saturday at the Chili Playing Field. Manager Darren Walters – stooping 2nd from left.

commented: “We fought hard for this… It was always in the making.”

The double Romario accomplishment of taking the title and promotion to Dennie the Premier Division was, netted all in Walters’ assessment, three goals more than satisfying for for Greiggs the club that was formed FC. in 2016.

Henderson “Making the restored the lead for transition, I am not Awesome early in the worried, because we have second half, but played against Premier Clubs before, Dennie completed his and have been triumphant against hattrick, and provided the equalizer in them… We are already at home in the injury time, to send the match into the Premier (Division),” Walters said, and decisive penalty kicks. described his team as “settled” and Awesome proved to have the better ready to train hard for the Premier penalty kickers, scoring three to Division.

Greiggs’ one.

AWESOME FC are the 2018/19 First Division Champions of the SVG Football Federation’s National Club Championships.

They beat Greiggs FC on penalties, last Saturday at the Chili Playing Field, to claim the title and secure a place in the 2019/20 Premier Division of the National Club Championship.

Last Saturday’s ding dong battle saw Awesome taking a 2-0 lead, with goals from Rafique Delpesche and Ozim Henderson, in the 26th and 32nd minutes respectively.

But Romario Dennie cut the lead in Manager’s delight half by converting a penalty in the 37th minute and he levelled the scores, Awesome FC’s Manager- Darren 2-2, in the 41st minute.

Walters, elated at his team’s triumph,

Third Place Prior to the final, Sparta had a 4-1 win over RSVG Police in the third place play- off.

Greiggs FC has been a consistent top performer among teams from the Windward side of mainland St. Vincent.

A goal each from Zimroy Charles, Calvon King, Romando Wright and Zan Thomas, accounted for Sparta’s tally. Kevin Creese netted the RSVG Police’s lone response.

Greiggs FC will also return to Premier Division National Club football for the 2019/20 season.

FOSH assists Sion Hill Junior Netball Team THE SION HILL Junior Netball Team has more reasons to give it their all in the Sonja Lewis Division Four of the FLOW National Netball Club Tournament.

This, as the fifteen members of the team were last Monday the recipients of top quality gear bags and water bottles, compliments the Friends Of Sion Hill Inc.(FOSH).

The brief handing over took place at the Kingstown Netball Centre prior to Sion Hill taking to the court to trounce Bishop’s College Kingstown, 41-4., as though in a show of appreciation.

Chair of the Sion Hill Netball

Committee- Mrs. Sylvia KnightsClarke, expressed thanks to FOSH Inc. “On behalf of the team, I thank FOSH for their donations of the bags and bottles, and we really appreciate their generosity,” Knights- Clarke said, and promised that the players will take proper care of the donations.

The players, too, thanked FOSH for their kind assistance.

FOSH Inc. is a Brooklyn, New York- based non- profit organisation which was formed four years ago, with the main aim of assisting Vincentians.

Since its formation, several organisations here have benefitted

from FOSH’s generosity.

Now, one of the leading Vincentian community groups operating out of New York, FOSH Inc. receives wide support for its various fundraising activities, among these being its flagship Annual Black Tie Gala, which this year, is scheduled for April 13, at Friends of Crown Heights, 671 Prospect Place, Brooklyn, New York.

Members of the Sion Hill Junior Netball Team, displaying their bags and bottles, at the Kingstown Netball Centre last Monday.

KingÊs bat talks in West St George T20 MBEKI KING had a half century and scored his first century to be the outstanding performer in last weekend matches of KFC West St. George Primary Schools T20 Cricket Competition.

Playing for Coreas Distributions Ltd. Gomea Methodist School against Mbeki King scored 104 not out for Gomea Methodist.

Allan’s Bakery Sion Hill last Sunday at the Belair Playing Field, King hit an unbeaten 104 to help his team to 191 without loss off 16 0vers. His partner Luke Browne contributed 56.

Sion Hill replied with a paltry 44 off 10 overs, to hand Gomea victory by a whopping 147 runs.

Gomea’s Jada Hazell picked up 4 for 7.

On Saturday, King gave indication of his iontentions when he stroked 67 not out,this time, however in a losing cause against KPMG Belmont Government School, who won by 22 runs. Scores: Belmont 167 for 8 off 15 overs, Fire Gordon 76, Jada Hazell 4 for 17; Gomea 145 for 3 off 15 overs, King 67 not out.

Also on Saturday, Allan’s Bakery Sion Hill

Government School defeated Log Enterprises Ltd. Dorsetshire Hill by 23 runs. Scores: Sion Hill 108 for 3 wickets off 15 overs - Ezekiel Ashton 2 for 23; Dorsetshire Hill 85 all out off 13 overs - Eekiel Ashton 21, Devon Franquois 4 for 18.

Weekend Fixtures: Saturday 6th April: Coreas Distributions Ltd. Gomea Methodist School face Logs Enterprises Dorsetshire Hill Government at Belair Playing Field; and Allan’s Bakery Sion Hill Government oppose KPMG Belmont Government School at the Dorsetshire Hill Playing Field.

Matches in the competition continue this weekend.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 25.

Sports

HooperÊs double cripples North Windward Shamon Hooper joined an elite group of double century makers.

Shamon hits a double

THERE WILL BE no one as pleased as the one after whom the North Leeward Northern Stars is named, with the performance of Shamon Hooper in last Sunday’s National Lotteries Authority First Division Cricket competition.

The team is called Julius Anthony North Leeward Northern Stars. ‘Jules’, as he was affectionately called, died November 16, 2018.

His legacy has been engraved in people’s minds, and the sportsmen and women are showing their gratitude by ensuring they fulfil some of his wishes. One such manifestation is Hooper’s double century against North Windward Youths. Batting at number three, Hooper notched up 19 fours, 11 sixes, in his innings of 211 which lasted 135 deliveries.

He shared stands of 122 for the fifth wicket with ShanghI John, 20, and 89 for the third with Maxwell Edwards 18.

Hooper displayed his all-round quality with 3 for 14, which restricting North Windward Youths to 114 all out in 26 overs.

Hooper is a product of the Julius Anthony’s Academy. There was nothing official in North Leeward, but Hooper, having come through the North Leeward Under 15 programme, will consider himself a graduate of the Jules’ institution. Hooper displayed his quality at the Under 15 level with the distinguished figures of nine maiden overs in a 50 Over match playing for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in St. Lucia.

A double century is no mean achievement. It takes concentration, even to get to a half century.

The three figure mark is a genuine accomplishment. To continue to a double century must be phenomenal.

One hopes that this innings is a stepping stone to greater heights. This performance puts him in contention for national selection.

Newly elected Vice President of West Indies Cricket Dr. Kishore Shallow will be happy with Hooper’s runs feast. Shallow has roots in Coulls Hill, a part of the North Leeward constituency.

Shallow is a practical administrator.

He was engaged in the last Vinlec North Leeward T/20 Championship. His input went a long way in helping his team Kishore Shallow Coulls Hill Rangers to the semi-final.

It is a pity that his presence was maintained on that consistency so as to allow for their qualification to the final. But perhaps, Shallow was working on other matters.

With his new responsibilities, there will be time for even people in North Leeward to appreciate the extent of the resources that they can put on the table.

The Vincy Heat football team, which engendered some pride in Vincentians with their performance at the Windward Islands Football tournament, boasted a North Leeward injection.

It might be parochial to claim that North Leeward is saving Vincentian Football. The two goal keepers in recent appearances Jadiel Chance and Cklon Mckie are products of the Petit Bordel Secondary School. They are also members of the North Leeward Cricket squad. Sport is given pride of place in North Leeward. It’s no surprise that talent could be unearthed. That’s some of the foundation Jules put in place.

SHAMON HOOPER was in blistering form as he smashed a double century, his first, to help Julius Anthony Northern Stars (JANS) to a commanding 232 runs win over North Windward, in a NLA First Division Sunday League match played at the Sion Hill Playing Field.

JANS batted first and posted 346 for 8, led by Sharmon Hooper’s dominant 211. The next best individual score was 20 by Jade Matthews. Jemmoth Brakin, 2 for 65 off 9 overs, and Emran Lorrain, 2 for 63 off 7 overs, for North Windward, who, in their turn at the crease, fell for 114, Hooper, completing a good allround performance with 3 for 14 off 5 overs and Maxwell Edwards 3 for 13.

At Stubbs, in a low scoring match, Victors Two made light work of Combined Youths, beating them by 7 wickets. Scores: Combined Youths 29 all out off 13.1 Overs, fast bowler Deswagne Williams 4 for 10 off 5 overs, off spinner Luke Wilson 2 for 7 off 2 overs; Victors Two 32 for 3 off 3.4 overs, Dexter Whinfield 2 for 10 off 1 over.

At Arnos Vale 2, Keegan Bequia XI beat St. Vincent Distillers Glamorgan by 6 wickets. Scores: Glamorgan 89 all out off 28.4 overs -Augustus Mofford 36, Chelson Stowe 4 for 12 off 5.4; Bequia 90 for 4 off 8.2 overs - Cosmus Hackshaw 35 not out and Olanzo Billingy 25, Chesley Ottley 2 for 24 off 2 overs

Female cricket JG Tigress and Sons beat Attacker Girls by 10 wickets in the SVGCA Inc Women T20 Cricket Competition on the weekend.

Scores: Attacker Girls 66 for 4 off 20 overs - Shenezia Daniel 2 for 4 off 4 overs and Shanika Campbell 2 for 9 off 4 overs.; JG Tigress 68 for 0 off 8.2 overs - Japhina Joseph 35 not out and Vinisha King 28 not out.

I.B.A.ALLEN

North Leeward cricket awards handed out AWARDS for 2018 VINLEC North Leeward T20 Super League Cricket Competition were presented earlier this week when the North Leeward Sports Association held its Awards Ceremony.

Among those receiving their due award was the RSVG Police Force, who won the Competition.

Individuals receiving awards included Chrisroy John of Ajuba Spring Village who scored the most runs (372, and Kenneth

Chrisroy John – highest rungetter.

Ten teams Dember of participated in Police the the Competition.

Competition’s highest wicket- I.B.A.ALLEN taker with 20 scalps.

Fourteenyear-old Kenneth Shaheem Dember, Samuel, who leading played wicket-taker, for Troumaca accepts Star Light and Champion’s who captured trophy on 12 wickets, was behalf of named the Most RSVG Police Promising Force.

Player.

RSVG Police – 2018 Champions of T20 cricket in North Leeward.

Windwards Men’s Tournament bowls off ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will be host to the 2019 edition of the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control Senior Men’s Cricket Tournament, which began earlier this week.

The two-day tournament began on Thursday April 4th with the first round of matches, and will run until April 10th, with matches played at Park Hill, Cumberland and Arnos Vale 1.

Earlier in the week, the local selectors announced a 13-man team, with West Indies batsman Sunil Ambris as captain and off

spinner Kenneth Dember as his deputy, and including Seon Sween (wicket keeper), Atticus Browne, Romano Pierre, Dillon Douglas, Keron Cottoy, Shaquille Browne, Darious Martin, Asif Hooper, Desron Maloney Obed McCoy and newcomer Andrew Thomas.

The team is coached by Deighton Butler and assisted by Cleton Barnet, who will also serve as manager.

Tournaments fixtures: Round one - SVG face St Lucia at Park Hill, and Dominica and

Grenada at Cumberland on April 4th & 5th.

Round 2 Dominica take on SVG at Park Hill, and St. Lucia oppose Grenada at Cumberland on the 6th & 7th.

Round 3 - SVG face Grenada at Arnos Vale 1 and Dominica oppose St. Lucia at Park Hill on the 9th & 10th.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Sunil Ambris – captain of the SVG Senior Cricket team.

26. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 05, 2019. 27.

Architecture on the sidelines THE LAST FEW YEARS haven’t been kind to Architects in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The once-booming construction sector was brought to a nearstandstill by the global economic downturn. The profession of Architecture in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has long been sidelined by policy makers, and local Architects have long fought an uphill battle to have the profession regulated as it is done in the rest of the world.

Now, Architecture in St. Vincent and the Grenadines - which requires considerable education and work ethic, and has traditionally served a wide range of functions is in trouble. How did a noble profession– purportedly licensed to “protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public”–fall so far?

Architects from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Institutes of Architect (SVGIA)

lobbied and struggled for decades to get the profession regulated, until finally, on the 18th day of October, 2011, the SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES ARCHITECTS ACT was passed in the House of Assembly. To date —seven years after - even with strong lobbying from the SVGIA and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Architects Council (SVGAC), the Act has not been implemented. The passing of the Act was a clear indication that as a developing nation, we were moving in the right direction with interest in the wellbeing of our citizenry. So then, why is the Act not implemented yet?

The general purpose of the Act is to provide for the registration of architects, to regulate the practice of architects and the practice of architecture in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The proper regulatory framework is

already in place —The SVGIA, the passing of the Act, and the formation of SVGAC — but for whatever reason, the implementation of the Act seems not to be of interest to policy makers. It seems to have been tucked away on the back shelves of bureaucracy.

The Act will help to address one of the major issues facing the profession -the free flow of foreign Architects to St. Vincent and the Grenadines without proper licence to work/practice as an architect in our country.

The local Architects in SVG can argue that this non-implementation of the Architects Act 2011 is unfair and unprogressive. It seems that one good step was taken in passing the Act — making it law and binding in SVG — but now the true purpose of the Act is being suffocated from bureaucratic negligence and indifference. Why

SIMORNE LEWIS Cathedral of the Assumption Wednesday, March 27, 2019 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

RICHARD ORLAND JOSEPH The Church of the Transfiguration Lowmans Hill Saturday, 30th March, 2019 Service: 3:00 p.m.

should our local Architects who have chosen a career that has the wellbeing of the public at its core, be subjected to such unfair treatment? Why should our local Architects have to unfairly compete with foreign unlicensed architects to make a living? Why should our recent architecture graduates have to go and work in a different field just because our profession is not regulated and provides no security? IT IS UNFAIR! How can we as a country boast of sustainable development, when a profession as noble and significant as Architecture is being sidelined? This unfair treatment will stifle the profession and ultimately dissuade upcoming generations not to study architecture. The final outcome can only be disastrous - our dependence on foreign architects in the future — if the status quo is kept.

ELETER PETERS St. Joseph Spiritual Baptist Church North Union Sunday, 31st March, 2019 Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 1:00 p.m.

JOYCE PATRICK Funeral Service Saturday, March 30, 2019 Hope Methodist Church Service: 3:00 p.m.

It is high time that the policy makers understand that the health safety and welfare of the public is highly hinged on the implementation of the SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

MS. EURICA HUGGINS aka Eka Scott New Testament Church of God Baptist Rite Coulls Hill Saturday, 31st March, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

PATRICIA MCDONALD aka Priscilla Sandy Bay Gospel Hall Church Saturday, 23rd March, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

ARCHITECTS ACT. After seven years, there should be nothing preventing the implementation of the Act. Secretary SVGIA

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

APRIL 05, 2019

VOLUME 113, No.14

A.I. REAL ESTATE North Union 6 bedrm Property on 8,863 sq. ft.

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MT WYNNE HOTEL BY 2021 Aspects of the Mt. Wynne hotel development designed by the Mexican IF THINGS GO ACCORDING TO PLAN, a founded firm Ten Arquitectos, were 250-room hotel would be constructed at presented at last Tuesday’s short Mt. Wynne and in full operation. ceremony.

Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves The Vincentian Finance Minister was in a joyous mood last Tuesday was pleased with the concept which he April 2 at Cabinet Room, as he said, blends into the natural exchanged papers of an agreement environment. with Ambassador Calvin Ho, “We have gone as far as we can confirming a loan of US $50M from without money,” he admitted, and Exim bank of the Republic of China added that “we can accelerate the (Taiwan) for the construction of the process of construction.” hotel.

The hotel will be managed by a ‘Brand’ with whom discussions are ongoing.

Another 93-room hotel, known as the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, is also earmarked for

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

One artist’s impression of the development proposed for Mt. Wynne.

construction at Diamond.

According to Gonsalves, the Diamond Hotel will be a fourstorey facility which will have a lower construction cost than the one at Mt. Wynne.

The Finance Minister justified the government’s entry into the hotel sector as adding Minister of Finance Camillo Gonsalves and to the “critical mass of rooms to H.E. Ambassador Calvin Ho exchanged attract more frequent flights.” signed copies of the loan agreement.

He is optimistic that, with the hotel rooms occupied, there will Taiwan was pleased to be involved in be opportunities for employment for funding the Mt. Wynne project. hundreds of persons.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves He also pointed to “economic also weighed in on the ceremony and activity” with benefits to farmers, saved his contribution as icing on the fisher folk, cultural artistes, with cake. He noted that the loan terms prospects moreso for the residents of were “favourable,” referenced the Layou and Barrouallie, as far as the “grace period” and projected that the My Wymnne project was concerned. hotel should be able to pay for itself Gonsalves praised the Taiwanese “before the end of the grace period.” for being “steadfast in friendship” and “You can’t increase wealth unless this country’s support in their quest you borrow,” the Prime Minister for recognition on world bodies. asserted.

Ambassador Ho assured that

ÂBigger BigsÊ keeps on protesting that farmers used to access their lands to the north of his LEON ‘BIGGER BIGS’ had been washed away, SAMUEL has taken to the leaving the affected farmers picket line once again, this with no choice but to pass time doing so at the opening through his property. of the refurbished Levi On Friday 1st March this Latham Health Complex in year, he was arrested and Mesopotamia on Tuesday. detained at the Georgetown He told THE Police Station after he refused VINCENTIAN that he had to allow a government resorted to staging the onesurveyor to conduct a survey man protest at the event of his property. because, he said, he has been But Samuel said that he fighting the government for has been trying to explain to some time now on issues the government that the surrounding lands he owned original road ought to be in Rabacca. fixed.

“For a lot of people, they He said that he did not thought the issue had died mind offering the farmers down, but for me — it was temporary access, but that he always a burning issue,” did not want any (permanent) Samuel said. public access road through his The issue, according to property.

Samuel, is that for “I just want the Leon ‘Bigger Bigs’ Samuel protesting some time now, he government to leave me and at last Tuesday’s opening of the had been saying that my property alone, and make refurbished Levi Latham Health Clinic. the original road

by DAYLE DA SILVA

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

amends with me to get back my businesses,” he said, adding that the protest was his reaction to the government.

“I am willing to do what I can within the law to keep the issue alive,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. He is no stranger to protest. Back in 2012, he staged protest action against the government whom he blamed for shutting down his business in 2011.

He picketed at the opening day of the Reparations Conference in 2012 at the Victoria Park, and had a runin with the law in 2014 when he took to protesting outside the office of the Attorney General in Kingstown, resulting in him receiving four charges, including blocking traffic.

Samuel appeared at the

Georgetown Magistrate’s Court on March 25, to answer to charges of obstructing a Senior Surveyor and his assistant from carrying out their duty. He had previously pleaded not guilty to the charge in his first court appearance, March 4.

The matter has been adjourned sine die — or no definite date.

Meanwhile, on the matter of access road, Transport and Works Minister Julian Francis did acknowledge government’s intention to resolve the issue with Samuel, and that it was Samuel who was resisting the efforts made by government.

Samuel countered with a Facebook posting of a letter he had sent to government inviting dialogue on the matter, to which he said, he is yet to receive a reply.

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