FRIDAY,
DECEMBER 06, 2019
VOLUME 113, No.49
Prosecutor overworked Page 4
www.thevincentian.com
7-year-old drowns Page 5
EC$1.50
U.I. Uprising- New Theatre Heritage Square Arts Awards shooter charged 40 Years Page 32 Page 19 Page 7
ÂNO COMPROMISE!Ê - COP
occasion of a meeting held at the Old Montrose Police Station Lecture Hall and attended by members of the police high command, gazetted It was a packed house of police officers of all ranks who turned up to hear the Commissioner. officer’s corps and country.” compromise the integrity of consequences of being caught rank and file members, to With a stern turn of voice, the organization for anyone. up in corrupt practices merely address what he described as the Commissioner made it He reminded his fellow “some pertinent issues that clear that he was not going to officers about the Continued on Page 3. have affected the integrity of the organization,” a la the three officers referenced above. “Under no circumstances will Commissioner of Police the organization Colin John made it condone any abundantly clear that he was unlawful acts being not going to compromise the perpetrated by a Police Force for anyone, member of the period. Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines COMMISSIONER OF POLICE Police Force,” John (CoP) Colin John, last Monday, told his officers, made the issue of the three (3) and reminded them police officers who were that as police recently arrested and charged officers “we took an L-R: Corporal Derrick Humphrey – answers to a rape charge; for various criminal offences, oath and have a Corporal Michael Lynch – answers to a rape charge, and inclusive of rape, trespassing vested Corporal Enkem Richards – answers to charges of trespassing and assault, (see accompanying responsibility to POLICE HERE have rape, and assault. (Photo Source: Facebook) story), the basis of an address to protect the citizens arrested and charged burglary a gathering of police officers. three of their fellow and of SVG and all of Continued on Page 3. The Commissioner used the the visitors to our officers for offences of criminal trespasses.
THREE POLICE OFFICERS CHARGED
2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
V News 3 ‘No compromise!’ Vincentian - CoP crowned Reggae Star in Barbados
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 3.
Continued from Frontpage.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES reggae artiste Jomo Bynoe, currently residing in Barbados, has claimed the coveted title in the Bajan Reggae Stars Competition. Jomo Bynoe, who goes by the stage name Justice Immortal The Musical God, defeated 14 other finalists in the competition held at The Cove in Saint Lawrence, Christ Church, December 1. Justice, who hails from Paul’s Avenue, Kingstown, walked away with the first prize of an international recording contract and distribution from FE FE Entertainment LLC USA. In an interview with THE VINCENTIAN since, the reggae artiste said that he feels good after winning the competition. “Winning makes me feel good, winning the crown means a lot to me. It’s an opportunity for I to move forward my talent and turn it into a career and spread my message to the wider range of people, and still own something,” said Justice.
He said that he was confident throughout the competition. “I was confident … I been singing long time. I been singing since I is a youth because I grow up around music, but I officially started to do it from the age of 16.” Justice is among the more recognized Vincentian reggae artistes. For a period of time, he dominated the reggae landscape here, along with Abuza and Yapthu before migrating to Barbados where he started a family. Among his more popular songs are ‘Thing tuff’, ‘Never sell my soul’ and ‘Same man’. He told THE VINCEENTIAN that he is looking forward to produce great music because he now has an international recording contract. “Look forward to see great things coming,” Justice promised, before adding that he has dedicated most of his life to music. Speaking on Facebook Live after lifting the crown, Justice thanked all the people who supported and wished him well.
Jomo Bynoe, aka Justice Immortal, is looking to build on this achievement.
(KH)
for a few dollars, and the risks involved to themselves, their families, their colleagues. And as though recalling his previous position of Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions here, John held up the tenet of the trial system, declaring that, like every other suspect, the officers who were charged are deemed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law, and that the law should be allowed to take its course. Notwithstanding the concentrated focus of inquiring eyes on the Police Force, John thanked the hard-working members of the organization for their support, and implored them to commit to the quest to rebuild the trust between the public and the police. Among the ongoing efforts made by the police to reach out to the public are: the Pan Against Crime Programme; Police Youth Clubs; the Police Band Summer Programmes and Christmas Concerts; the Coast Guard Summer Programme and the DARE programme. In addition, the police are actively involved in national sports competitions and activities. John also took the opportunity to highlight that crime generally has been on the decrease. He disclosed, for example, that up to November in 2018, there were thirty (33) reported murders. That figure, he said, had dropped to 19 for the same period up to November 2019. He attributed this reduction “to the commendable effort and dedication of members of the organization to the prevention and detection of crimes.”
Three Police officers charged
MCT hands out more bursaries
Continued from Frontpage.
FOUR MORE STUDENTS of the Open Campus (SVG) of The University of the West Indies (The UWI) have been added to the list of Mustique Charitable Trust (MCT) bursary recipients. The four: Natalia Gill Bachelor of Science: Management Studies-Tourism & Hospitality; Araya Horne - Bachelor of Science: International Management; Zaphia Joseph Bachelor of Science: Management Studies-Tourism & Hospitality; Ashene Peters - Bachelor of Science: Social Work They received their awards for the 2019 — 2020 Academic year at a ceremony held on Saturday 9th November, 2019. Each award covers 60% of a student’s academic fees, and each recipient is gifted with a laptop computer. Remarks were made by Deborah Dalrymple and Camille Lakhram of The UWI Open Campus. They both thanked the MCT for their significant contribution to the academic endeavours of the selected students. Dularie Malcolm of the MCT recognised Mrs. Dalrymple and Mrs. Lakhram for their support and dedication to the programme, and urged the bursary recipients
A release dated 29th November 2019 from the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the Royal SVG Police Force, confirmed that three serving police officers were arrested and charged; two with the offence of rape, and the other with the offences of burglary and criminal trespasses. The charges were laid against the officers on Thursday, November 28, 2019 and on Friday, November 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN reported in its issue of Friday 29th November 2019, that one of those three, Corporal Derek Humphrey, had been charged with raping a 15-year-old girl on November 24. According to information received then, he was also charged with indecently assaulting a woman on a separate date. When Humphrey appeared before the Family Court last week Thursday, he was not called upon to plead because the offence is an indictable one. He was granted bail with one surety. One of the other two, identified as Corporal Michael Lynch of Peter’s Hope, appeared before the Family Court last Friday charged with rape. He is alleged to have raped a woman during the time she was in protective (police) custody. He was granted bail. Meanwhile, the third officer concerned, identified as Corporal Enkem Richards of Colonaire, appeared before the Serious Offences Court, Kingstown last Friday, charged with entering his neighbour’s house as a trespasser and assaulting the neighbour. Richards pleaded not guilty to the charges, and was granted bail. The matter was transferred to the Colonarie Magistrate’s Court. The release referenced earlier, confirmed that the three officers have been placed on suspension.
MCT 2019 Bursary Recipients (with bags in hand) with UWI and MCT officials. to utilise the support programme at UWI Open Campus when they face challenges. Ikarmola LaBorde, former UWI Open Campus Graduate, Valedictorian and Entrepreneur was the featured speaker. She focused on highlighting the importance of time management and overcoming challenges as she directed her address to the bursary recipients.
Since 2010, MCT has awarded 3-4 Bursaries each year with 17 MCT Bursary recipients having graduated thus far- seven with First Class Degrees, three with `Upper Second Degrees, six with Lower Second Degrees and one Certificate. There are currently 14 MCT Bursary recipients pursuing studies at UWI Open Campus (St. Vincent).
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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Courts
English prisoner dies Senior Prosecutor in Vincy hospital overworked
pleaded guilty to possession of 404 pounds of marijuana with intent KEVIN SLAUTER, a 57-year-old boat to supply, possession for the captain of England, who was in purpose of drug trafficking, and custody at Her Majesty’s Prisons, attempting to export the drug. He Kingstown, awaiting sentencing on was also charged with conspiracy, three drug-related charges, died at but he had pleaded not guilty to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital that. last Saturday. Slauter was charged jointly, on Up to press time Wednesday, all counts, with Javed Chetram of efforts by THE VINCENTIAN to Grenada and Kezroy Edwards of ascertain the results of the Rose Bank. autopsy, or to reach the Chetram and Edwards pleaded Superintendent of Prisons proved not guilty to the charges, and the futile. matter was set for trial. However, THE VINCENTIAN The case was last called at the understands that Slauter was Serious Offences Court last week taken to the hospital after Wednesday. swallowing his dentures and When the call was made in cutting his wrist at the Prison. He Court for Slauter, the prosecution was admitted to the Hospital and informed that Court that he underwent surgery. would be coming from elsewhere. Earlier this year, he had Attorney Grant Connell, Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
representing the three men, then told the Court that Slauter was in hospital awaiting surgery, and would not be coming. Kevin Slauter The matter was then adjourned to January next year. When contacted on Tuesday, Connell told THE VINCENTIAN that he learned of Slauter’s death, and described it as unfortunate. He, however, declined to comment further, saying that the matter was still subjudice. The three men were arrested in June this year, after reportedly being intercepted aboard a yacht at Richmond on the Leeward coast.
No bail in Canouan shooting SHAMAI HAZELL, the man who has been charged in connection with a shooting incident in Canouan, November 23, which left businessman Judson Jacobs of Arnos Vale paralysed, has again been denied bail. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne further remanded the 23year-old Bequia resident on Monday, following strong objections to bail
by Prosecutor Curlene Samuel. Samuel told the Serious Offences Court that information reaching her, indicates that Jacobs is still warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, and his condition seems to be getting worse. Hazell was not required to plea to the charges of wounding Jacobs, 26, with intent, and robbing him of
EC$10,000, and was further remanded until next Tuesday, when the Court is expected to receive a comprehensive medical report on the victim. The charges reportedly stem from an incident at Canouan around 11:20 am. on November 23. The businessman was said to have gone to that Southern Grenadine island to purchase
conchs. Reports are that during the alleged robbery, Jacobs was shot in the neck. The bullet went through the left side of his neck and exited through his right shoulder, resulting in damage to his spine, causing paralysis from his waist down. Hazell was first taken to Court on the charges, November 25.
AT LEAST ONE defence lawyer here feels that Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche is overworked. Attorney Grant Connell made his feeling known on Monday when the prosecution requested an adjournment in a matter, on the grounds that the Senior Prosecutor who had charge of the case was absent. The case involved Connell’s client Adryll Sylvester, who is charged with possession of four pounds of marijuana with Senior Prosecutor intent to supply. Adolphus Delpleche. “Mr. Delpleche is overworked in this court, and when he is sick, there is nobody else to pick up,” Connell declared. He pointed out that there were three competent prosecutors at the bar table, and the matter in question had been before the court since February, and the drugs were tested since July. “You can’t hinge everything on Delpleche; he is overworked,” the lawyer insisted. Connell noted that his client had his receipt from the cannabis authority to show that he had applied for a traditional cultivator’s licence to get involved in the Modern Medicinal Marijuana Industry. But Crown Counsel Rene Simmonds told the Court that the Senior Prosecutor had charge of the case, and in the interest of justice, the prosecution should be given time to present its case competently. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne did not agree that competence was the issue here, but she granted another adjournment to December 10.
Peto man granted bail SHAHID STAPLETON, a 22-year-old Petit Bordel man who was remanded since November 26 on a wounding with intent charge, was granted bail when he returned to the Serious Offence Court on Monday. Stapleton is charged with wounding Lesroy Degrad, 29, also of Petit Bordel, with intent, stemming from a stabbing incident in that community shortly after 1 pm. on November 21. When Stapleton initially appeared in Court on November 25, he was denied bail on the grounds that the victim was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital nursing two stab wounds to his side, and was having respiratory problems, resulting in a tube having to be inserted into his body to extract fluid. However, when Stapleton returned to Court on Monday, Prosecutor Curlene Samuel indicated that the victim was discharged from the hospital, and the prosecution was no longer objecting to bail. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne then granted Stapleton bail in the sum of $7,000 with one surety, on condition that he report to the Chateaubelair Police Station every Monday between 6 am. and 6 pm. He was also ordered not to have contact with the victim. The matter has been adjourned to March 2, 2020.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 5.
News
7-year-old Technology, the best solution, says Gonsalves drowns by KENVILLE HORNE
A 7-YEAR-OLD GIRL of Vermont was, up to Wednesday, this country’s latest drowning victim. On Tuesday this week, the body of Roshanna Baptiste, of Francois, Vermont, was removed from the river in Penniston sometime around 4 p.m. Reports are that Browne, a student of the Buccument Government School, went to the river to bathe after school had been dismissed, with two of her Roshanna Baptiste, cousins. pictured here at a According to a source, graduation from the cousins ran to call Pre-School, may Roshanna’s great aunt just have run after Roshanna began to experience problems in the contrary to her grandmother’s water. Roshanna’s grandmother instructions. later arrived on the scene and was overheard, according to a source as saying she felt like taking her life as she could not do without her granddaughter. According to a close friend of the family, the grandmother, a farmer, was supposed to go to Penniston Tuesday afternoon to pick her up. The grandmother, known as Mary Browne, is said to have told Roshanna to wait for her at a shop in Penniston after school. “Mary pay the shopkeeper money for Roshanna to get food when she come from school, but like she na show up, and like she choose to go by she cousin,” the family friend told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. Police are conducting an investigation into the matter.
CAMILLO GONSALVES, Minister of Finance, Technology, etc., is confident that technology is the best solution to counter our limited resources. The Minister made the comment while delivering the feature address at the Nov. 15 Graduation Ceremony of the Caribbean Regional Communications Infrastructure Programme CARCIP), hosted by the National Centre of Technological Innovation (NCTI). The ceremony was held at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown. “We can’t solve a problem by throwing more people at it, because we don’t have a lot of people. The solution ….. is technology. We are not going to build a bridge from St. Vincent to Bequia or from Bequia to Palm Island …. But we can connect ourselves with the bridge of technology. It doesn’t make sense we have ten excellent math teachers that those ten teachers have to work in ten schools ….. we can connect schools using technology,” said
Corporate Governance Training held here TOWARDS sharpening their skills and in keeping with the increased demands on and by directors, supervisors and regulators, Directors of the St Vincent CoParticipants in Corporate Governance Training Course operative Bank (Standing from left): Samuel Goodluck, Marcus Limited and others recently participated Ballantyne, Zhinga Horne-Edwards, Maxim James, Suzanne Joachim, Heather Sardine, Matthew Ferrari, in a three-day Julie Lewis and Albert Porter. (Seated from left) training course on Course facilitators Lisa Charles and Dr Chris Bart. Corporate Governance. The training course was facilitated November 25 to Wednesday November by Dr Chris Bart and Ms Lisa Charles 27 and covered a range of topics of the Caribbean Governance Training including: the Principles of Governance; Roles, Responsibilities, Institute. Dr Bart posited that there is a dire Accountabilities and Culture; The Essentials of Financial Oversight; need to raise the standards of Developing Strategic Thinking vs governance and practices of Strategic Planning; Risk Management organisations throughout the and Good Boards need Good Directors. Caribbean. All the Directors sat and passed the To date, his Institute has trained qualifying examination that marked the Executives of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the Cabinet the culmination of the course and in doing so, have earned the right to use of the Government of St Lucia and the internationally recognized over 900 directors in the region. designation “Chartered Director” The course ran from Monday (C.Dir). (Source: SVCB)
Gonsalves. Referring to CARCIP, the Minister said that its incubation programme was a model not just for the region, but also for the World Bank. Among the major projects taking place under CARCIP is the Laying of undersea cables to connect the Grenadines, as well as Grenada and St. Lucia. “When we did it, we asked the World Bank to carve out about $4 million for us to grant to persons who either are ICT businesses entrepreneurs or people who have businesses that use technology in some way in their business,” said Gonsalves According to Gonsalves the World Bank complimented SVG for the manner in which the programme was implemented here.
Minister of Technology Camillo Gonsalves was upbeat and optimistic in his address to graduates of the CARCIP.
Speaking directly to the graduates, Gonsalves pointed to a grant facility that was opened to businesses that were IVCT reliant, and reminded them that the programme gave them a great opportunity to advance. “All of you are now positioned beyond your local colleagues and competitors, and (are) among the elites regionally and indeed internationally with the certificates you received. You will have opened a door for yourself in doing this course work,” said Gonsalves. The finance minister said that he is excited about the future of SVG. “The government continues to invest in training young people.
…. We believe that the best way forward, the fastest way forward, the most efficient way forward, is to bet on young people who are innovative and are willing to use technology, to advance themselves and their families , and to advance this wonderful country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Gonsalves declared.
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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
Evangelist sings for good cause songs during the 8th Annual Fundraising Prayer Breakfast of the kingnaking210@yahoo.com Bronx, New York-based US CORRESPONDENT church, St. Matthias Charities, Inc. A POPULAR VincentianDurrant — a youth born singing evangelist leader at her father’s, two Saturdays ago Cecil Durrant, church, mesmerized enthusiastic Bethany Deliverance patrons at a fundraising Church of God, on Rogers Prayer Breakfast, at the Avenue in Crown Friends of Crown Heights Heights, Brooklyn — Educational Center in teased patrons mid-way Brooklyn, New York, aimed through the Prayer at assisting nationals in Breakfast. St. Vincent and the She belched out “Hold Grenadines. My Hands”, “Look to the LaFleur Durrant, the Father”, “Sweet Name”, lone featured artiste, set “In the Sweet”, “The the house on fire and Lord Will Make a Way”, brought it down with “In the Cross” and “I heart-wrenching gospel Sing Hallelujah”. After the mouthPastor Robert McBarnett watering, sumptuous meal comprising addresses patrons. Story and photos by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net;
Vincentian delicacies such as saltfish and breadfruit, smoked herring, tri-tri cakes, and fried jack fish and ballahoo — she brought the house down with “I Am Your Child” “I Will Not Be Denied”, and “Stumble and Fall.” “Look to the Father”, “I Sing Hallelujah” and “I Am Your Child” were written and produced by Allan “Tom” Doyle, owner and producer of Sans Souci Studio in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn. Doyle was among patrons reveling in Durrant’s performance. “It was a very exciting experience being among Vincentian people,” Durrant told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards. “It’s always great to feel at home. I felt the warmth and the love coming from the audience.” Durrant said she migrated to New York at what she described as “a young age” and “began a new chapter” in her life. She said she faced many challenges, but,
Neeka Isaacs, Director of Communications at the Ministry of Health, SVG, addresses the gathering.
with God’s grace, she overcame them. She also disclosed that she won “the fight with cancer” and has dedicated her life to “ministering the gospel through singing and music.” “To God be the glory for His grace and favor!” Durrant exclaimed. Bishop Merton Cumberbatch, the Belairborn pastor of St. Anthony’s Divine Church of Healing in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, brought the word at the Prayer Breakfast, urging patrons to “Stop Hiding and Arise.” Rose Bank-born Pastor Simeon King, of the Mission of God Ministries in Brooklyn, also prayed for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and patrons’ adopted country, the United States of America. The Prayer Breakfast brought together not only Vincentians but nationals from other Caribbean islands, such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, the Bahamas, Grenada, St. Lucia, Aruba, and St. Kitts and Nevis. Neeka Isaacs, the Jamaican-born Director of Communications in the Ministry of Health in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, applauded St. Matthias Charities, Inc., for its missions to the nation. Isaacs, who is married to a Vincentian and had just returned from Taiwan, said she could not miss the event for anything. Pastor Robert McBarnett, a
Evangelist LaFleur Durrant electrifies patrons at Fundraising Prayer Breakfast. Georgetown native and founder and president of St. Matthias Charities, Inc., said all proceeds from the Prayer Breakfast go towards helping his compatriots. “We believe every hospital in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must have an EKG machine,” he said, stating that his philanthropic group, since 2012, has furnished medical and other supplies to hospitals, clinics and the wider community in his native land. “From 2012 to now, we brought in 11, 40-ft. containers (of supplies) to St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” he added, as he appealed to patrons for financial contributions to purchase more EKG machines. Patrons instantly obliged, donating US $656.41. In April 2020, he said the St. Matthias Charities, Inc. will hold another fundraising event — its Annual Dinner — at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 7.
History
Union Island December 7 Armed Uprising:
40 years ago!
uprising. The take-over came early in the morning, with no resistance by the four policemen housed at the Ashton Police Station, which was bombed and caused the lawmen to flee. With the use of a PA system obtained from a local church, residents were informed of the uprising and urged to remain indoors. The insurgents took control of all important government buildings and essential facilities. However, these controls were short-lived as the insurgents later on abandoned their posts.
Ashton, Union Island in 1979. by STEVE STEWART Attorney-at-law
Introduction 1979 TURNED out to be not so much a year to remember, as one not so possible to forget. It was a dramatic year indeed for the sub-region characterized by natural disasters (the eruption of St. Vincent’s La Soufriere and the devastating impact of Hurricane David on Dominica); attainment of political independence (St.Lucia and St. Vincent & the Grenadines); political instability (St.Lucia and Dominica); and, a coup d’état and an armed uprising (Grenada and Union Island respectively). Like Grenada, Dominica and St. Lucia before it, St. Vincent and the Grenadines sought its own developmental pathway through political independence amidst significant social and economic challenges. Just a little more than a month into its “political freedom” and a mere two days after the first postindependence general elections (Dec. 05, 1979),
PM Milton Cato and his Labour Party had a shortened period for celebrating their victory at the polls.
the multiisland nation, led by newly minted Prime Minister Milton Cato, faced its first major political headache. Grenada also made history with its March 13, 1979 armed overthrow of the Eric Gairy Regime by Maurice Bishop’ New Jewel Movement. It is perhaps fair to say that the progress made in eight months across the triisland state of Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique as a consequence, might have had significant influence on the Union Island coup leaders as they attempted to remove control of Union Island from mainland St. Vincent.
Lennox ‘Bumba’ Charles - leader of the Uprising had attended the 1978 Introductory Consultation Meeting on the Social Problems, and articulated the Union Island situation with accuracy and passion.
was part of Union Island’s delegation at the Introductory Consultation Meeting on the Social Problems affecting the Grenadines held in Bequia. More than one year later, nothing was done, and so The Uprising the Island’s social and economic fabric Lennox “Bumba” deteriorated further. Charles, leader of the Faced with economic and insurgents, was deeply social stagnation, Union concerned about the lack Island together with its of basic social amenities, coup leaders under the the economic hardships command of Charles and the apparent neglect entered into the annals by the Cato Government. of history on December 7, In September 1978, he 1979, with its armed
The bombing of the Police Station left a hole at the rear of the building.
The Tom Adams administration in Barbados hastened to send troops to assist his colleague (Milton Cato) in quelling the uprising.
That said, one must sea under mysterious always be very mindful circumstances. that distorted and More than forty careless use of memory innocent persons, can lead to negative including prominent perceptions and abuse of senior citizens, were people. Representations arrested, brought to of what was presumed to mainland and detained have happened far at Fort Charlotte. Most removed in time, are of them were released The Government’s particularly prone to without charge the Response these forms of following year, having distortions, as the effects spent the Christmas in The initial euphoria of these reconstructions the dungeon. For all of following the St. Vincent them, it was three accrue across succeeding Labour Party’s landslide torturous weeks of being generations. victory, quickly subsided beaten, drenched Tomorrow marks forty as the country, still in years on from the regularly with cold “constitutional diapers”, water, and made to lie on uprising. Some of the persons who were found its new sovereignty the cold floor with little arrested have passed on; threatened by insurgents sleeping materials and located 48 miles away little to eat. Charles was others have migrated; and some are still from mainland St. arrested by the Vincent. Grenadian authority and around. No doubt, all Cato declared a state handed over in late 1980, Unionites, particularly those who were old of emergency and where he was tried, enough to remember the imposed a dusk-to-dawn convicted and event, would reflect curfew throughout St. imprisoned. (some with deep Vincent & the emotions) on the Grenadines. He called on Reflections activities before, during the United States, and after that day: where Britain and the region to It is a fact that they were; how they felt; send troops to assist. societal identity, like and they would perhaps Only Prime Minister individual identity, is also seek out answers to Tom Adams of Barbados shaped to a certain questions on why the responded by sending extent by the past, a past uprising; was it worth it; Bajan soldiers to Vincy which cannot be was it justified; and what soil, which provoked changed. The shared impact, if any at all, did serious debates in the experiences and it have on succeeding Barbadian Parliament. memories of the generations or on the The view was that the December 7 event by Union Island society as a Union Island Uprising those who were involved whole. The emotions and was an internal matter of and even those who were responses to these state and ought not to be not directly involved, are questions may vary, but subjected to foreign quite likely to foster a one thing all would agree interference by other greater bond amongst all on, is that the past can countries. Unionites, which would always be used to Some forty policemen provide them with an improve or better the implicit collective frame under the command of present and thus Inspector Ruthford Cox, of reference. influence the future. a Unionite, were sent from St. Vincent to regain control of the Island. They spent most of the day on nearby Palm Island since they were uncertain as to the exact location and strength of the insurgents. Later that day, the policemen came ashore and restored law More than 40 persons – male and female – were and order. One man was taken captive, shackled at the hands and ankles killed in Clifton, and and brought to Kingstown for eventual another disappeared at imprisonment at Fort Charlotte.
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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 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
Financing Election campaigns AL JAZEERA, the English Language television news channel headquartered in Doha, Qatar (Middle East), ‘stirred up a hornet’s nest’ in the Caribbean with its recent exposé, alleging that politicians in the Caribbean (focus on Dominica and Grenada) were involved in a corrupt trade of diplomatic posts in exchange for money. The exposé also highlighted the likelihood that much of the money that was alleged to have been paid to certain Caribbean prime ministers for diplomatic positions, have been channeled into the coffers of the prime ministers’ parties, and used (successfully if not unethically) to finance general elections campaigns. The focus of the actual misuse of political power in a broad sense is for another time. This piece focuses on (illegitimately gotten) finances for use in general elections campaigns. This Column recalls that it was in 2013 when then President of Trinidad and Tobago, Anthony Carmona, in addressing the ceremonial opening of Parliament in that country, made a “powerful” call for regulation of election campaign financing. He said then, “Election campaign financing is a veritable juggernaut that results in financiers arrogating political power onto themselves and thereby undermining the system of governance.” He also said when political parties were in opposition they lobbied for transparency in campaign financing, but when they were in power “they conveniently neglect” to deal with the problem. Now, there is no questioning that election campaigns here over the last two decades have been characterised by wanton, open display of free spending, with no obligation on the part of political parties to account for the source(s) of their financing. The Al Jazeera exposé raised one likely source of that finance and, interestingly, there has been no denial or rubbishing of the Al Jazeera finger-pointing, by any of
the otherwise vocal prime ministers who have been implicated. Unfortunately, while some leaders are wont to wield their influence to facilitate means to ensure longevity in office, the ordinary citizen appears oblivious to the fact that there is no campaign financing legislation; there is no law/rule to regulate the amount of money a party can attract, and spend, and the impact that could have on the result of a general election. There no telling, therefore, the real people calling the shots. It is not too late for an honest government to do something positive about election campaign financing and, while they are at it, to do something positive about the wider issue of electoral reform. No one wants to cry doom and gloom on any country or people, but if we in these small island nations especially, continue to make ourselves subservient to the rich and not so famous of this world, we could well be heading down a path of national unrest and even anarchy. But then again, to ask, for example, the ULP to make this move, even if it’s on the single issue of election campaign financing, is to ask it to shoot itself in the foot. It was Mia Mottley, while Leader of the Opposition in Barbados, who proffered that, “the threat posed to democracy by illegal and unregulated financing of political campaigns is a real and present danger.” As we can see, there is no lack of support for the introduction of election campaign financing legislation across the region. To continue in a climate that allows the party with the greatest financial resources, raised without questions of sources, to railroad and manipulate a still fragile electorate into handing them victory, is to speak of building a Caribbean Civilization without the fundamental principles of honesty, fair play, accountability and transparency. Is that what we really want?
Fostering a personality cult (A reprint)
equally surrendered its judgement to its Maximum Leader who, while decrying the former NDP approach, is actually pulling together all aspects of power in unitary points, presided over virtually by an elected King. Keith Joseph notes that to date, Dr. Gonsalves has spoken for well over eighty percent of the time taken up by the Government in parliamentary debates. Dr Gonsalves makes all the major speeches in all the Ministries, bar none. Dr. Gonsalves, courtesy the new technology, governs by remote control when he is abroad, without regard to whoever is on the ground supposedly acting as Prime Minister. Eveything was revealed during the mixup over the last NDP march and rally in Kingstown. Dr. Gonsalves who was in Taiwan, ran the show, ruling by proxy as if there was neither acting Prime Minister, Minister of National Security of Commissioner of Police. Indeed, the ultimate was reached when Dr. Gonsalves entered the precincts of a Press Conference ostensibly staged by Minister Vincent Beache, took it over completely and, with the assistance of Glen Jackson, ran it aground. All this, because the Prime Minister had no reason to believe that on a sensitive issue, Beache was about publicly to depart from the Gonsalves script which defines the Government line. In the circumstances, the conventional wisdom is that every effort be made constitutionally to cut down the awesome powers granted to our Heads of Government. Equally, however, there needs to be a massive educational assault to reduce the limits to which the people allow the PM to lord it over the society. That is why this column has pounced on so simple a symbolism of subjecting the PM as well as the GG to the same traffic laws that apply to all lesser mortals. Instead the trend is towards an intensified genuflection to the political elites of the nation. The slave mentality still needs a Massa. The matter of number of photographs of the PM appearing in issues of the local Press becomes relevant. It is not trivia.
“FOR WHATEVER REASONHISTORICAL, societal or cultural, our countries have been led for the most part by strong men who dominate and rule with an iron hand, even in case of benevolent despotism. Whatever the cause, Caribbean political society in the latter 75 years of the last century was marked by the emergence of strong local figures who fill the vacuum created by a departing colonial power. A German political sociologist, Max Weber, found a term to describe the phenomenon. Charisma- the gift of grace, was attached to a number of our early leaders who generally came out of the Trade Union Movement or, like Salvationist Vere Bird of Antigua, sprang from a religious source. These leaders, exemplified by Bustamante of Jamaica, Bird of Antigua, Bradshaw of St. Kitts, Joshua of St. Vincent, Gairy of Grenada, Butler of Trinidad, Jagan in Guyana, were largerthan-life figures who were idolized and worshipped by their people. Later, this leadership type was replaced by more formally educated persons who co-existed with them for a time, but eventually inherited the mantle, if not the aura of their forbears. It was the age of the emergence of Norman Manley, Grantley Adams, Eric Williams and Forbes Burnham and a host of lesser lights in the other islands whose education was largely confined to the law. The stark fact is, however, that the historical legacy had created its own momentum which had by then required that all leadership display a quality of what was seen as strength and forcefulness. The politicians obliged, and one-manisn grew to form the centre- piece of our political culture, virtually becoming institutionalised over time, coaxed and molly-coddled by the very constitutions that were fashioned with the set goal of ensuring a better spread and dispersal power. That is why Dr. Gonsalves can boldly state today that his “ULP is not in office. It is in power”. Before the ULP, Prime Minister Mitchell easily dominated the politics of SVG in a sort of benevolent dictatorship that was glossed over and disguised by the willing support of his Ministers and Party With Dexter Rose as Editor, there is a hierarchy. growing sense of political proportion and The current Ottley Hall enquiry has balance at the “Searchlight” newspaper. shattered our faith in these cosy arrangements, but the present ULP has Continued on Page 31.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 9.
Letters
Sorry, I must leave
SINCE BECOMING a member of the SVG Teachers Union in the 70s, I have never encountered such a high-handed President. I do not know what hold she has on other executive members who are aware that all is not well with the union, but are afraid to speak up. Is it a case of them not wanting to miss their meeting stipend and lunch? Questions abound: Are decisions made by the president outside of constituted meetings? Do the president and the general secretary want to have all the say, while the other executive members appear dumb? Have the original staff been relieved of their regular duties, to the point of frustration? Are major financial matters executed without the knowledge of the elected treasurer? Do executive members occupy local hotel rooms during regional conferences hosted in SVG, and the union has to foot the bill? Indications are that: school stewards have been side-lined and replaced by social media; a past executive member who failed to function during his tenure, now performs the unofficial duty of advisor to the president; scrappy minutes and reports are presented to general meetings with no financial statements; the president wants to propose that executive members be paid for their time, and that the so-called “branch steering” committees be remunerated when they convene meetings. Members pay their dues so that there could be the continuation of this noble organization; but it seems that this present team, aka “dream team”, don’t know what is or don’t respect proper accountability. Many of us retired teachers keep paying our membership fees because we believe in the organization’s longevity to assist our children and our children’s children. At this rate of functioning, and with the crop of individuals who are at the top presently, I am afraid that the union may not have too far to go unless a drastic change is made. I have decided, however, that before my pressure escalates, I must withdraw my monthly thirty dollars, and put it towards my health. Sorry, I must leave, effective December 31, 2019. Concerned retired member
Quid Pro Quo WHO IS he? Where was he born? Where does he live? Why does he have a first, middle and last name? Where could I find him? Every name has a unique meaning, and Quid Pro Quo is no exception. His name means ‘a favour or advantage granted or expected in return for something’. While his movements are shady, one sure thing about him is that he has a lot of money. Therefore, to find him, we must follow the money trail. First, let us look for him in the church. He is not likely to be found there because “the love of money is the root of all evil,” (1 Timothy 6:10), and the folks there are as poor as church rats. The next place to look is the school where, it appears, the girls spend significantly more money than the boys. They must be more familiar with Quid Pro Quo. Further investigation shows that each student passing 5 or more subjects, including English and Math, receives $500.00. Is this money given as a reward to inspire better performance? Some research suggest that tangible rewards are a
disincentive and lead to lower performance. Since this is the case, perhaps Quid Pro Quo may have an answer. We follow the money trail on the road where delivery trucks are offloading free lumber, galvanize, and cement. Who is behind the steering wheel? It appears to be Quid Pro Quo. The news seem to suggest that Quid Pro Quo changed residence from New York to Florida. But since there appears to be a money trail here, has he taken up residency in our country? Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
making this a must, as far as HIV/AIDS is concerned, and I support him fully. And if we know SOMETIMES I wonder, of Health regarding how the virus here. Now if persons who are Mr. Editor, whether many people are living there is anything spreading this deadly Sydney ‘Pumpkin’ Joseph with HIV/AID, how frightening, it is that! virus, we should report is the only face and voice many were infected this To think that there are in this country keeping year, how many have men and women literally to the authorities so that they can be charged. I the issue of HIV/AIDS on died, etc. Abbott said he passing death sentence am certain there is a law the national agenda. I would address the issue on somebody they had under which we can mean, I haven’t heard, of HIV/AIDS in SVG only sex with is terrifying, charge them. subject to correction, when he gets these Mr. Editor. To think that a man anything serious and statistics. I await his Long ago, when a man ongoing from the fully piece on that. went by a doctor or even still getting charged for having a few grams of staffed AIDS Secretariat In the meantime, a druggist for an in the Ministry of ‘Pumpkin’ raised a very injection because he felt weed in his possession, is a ‘crime’, when we think Health for a very long frightening happening in he had contracted the time. this country, in the piece clap (gonorrhea), he had that persons who spread But, I heard Vin (page 14) you carried in to cough up the name of the HIV/AIDS are getting away scot-free. Abbott on NICE Radio the last edition. He the girl he last had sex last Saturday, saying spoke about persons with before he got that Charles - Edinboro that he is awaiting wantonly, i.e. injection. I see that statics from the Ministry deliberately spreading ‘Pumpkin’ is calling for
I support ÂPumpkinÊ
Those rising vegetable prices AMIDST the many efforts and promises to effect the contrary, the prices for vegetables are rising steeply for the final quarter of the year (October, November and December), in the old traditional way. The following are the prices which obtained at the Central (vegetable) Market and on the streets of Kingstown, on Friday 15th November: * Tomatoes $7.00/lb, * Cabbage $6.00/lb, * Carrot $5.00/lb, * Sweet Pepper $6.00/lb, * Cucumbers $4.00/lb. Along with the high prices of the vegetables, there is a felt shortage. Hence, there is a scarcity, and this pushes the prices for the commodity upwards. The above scenario reflects a failure, failure, failure to meet a target. It has long been recognized that the difficulty lies in our failure to produce vegetables out of season, especially with respect to the production of tomatoes, the hardest vegetables to grow. As a result, the use of under-cover (Green House/Controlled Environment) vegetable production, involving large sums of money with foreign assistance, was introduced. The Ministry of Agriculture once posited that fifty (50) properly functioning under-cover vegetable units can meet our needs. And just about two years ago, the government expressed the
vision of producing enough vegetables for export through the use of the under-cover structures. However, we are still afar off. I invite readers to monitor the situation regarding the availability of vegetables at suitable prices, as we go through the Christmas season. It is my view that the prices will go higher and higher as per past years. High food prices are a major cause of people not eating healthy. It leads to malnutrition and a sick nation. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the indicators are telling the story - rises in obesity, diabetes and amputations. These are regularly discussed at workshops and conferences and reported in the media. The Ministry of Agriculture, et al, and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment must continue to work hard. The former will enhance food security, while the latter will deal with the promotion of healthy eating practices within the nation. Home/backyard gardening and the revitalization of school gardening can help to maintain a supply of vegetables throughout the year. We cannot afford to ignore what the negative indicators of good health are saying. Joseph Mapp President Marriaqua District Health Team
* Now that we moving in on those police officers who are alleged to have committed rape, is there any chance of reopening some of the ‘cold cases’ (rape)? * Is it true that Arnhim Eustace will have the last say as to who will replace him as the NDP candidate in East Kingstown? * Will there be an inquiry into the death of that British man, or will we just sweep in under the carpet because he was convicted for an offence in our country? * Or because it might open up mouth and ‘tory go jump out? * And, by the way, whose fault it is that people are languishing on remand? Not the Prison authorities, eh?
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10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
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The ULP is ready for 2020 NDP celebrates 44 years
Introduction IT’S THE MONTH of December 2019. The decade is coming to a close, and the ULP administration is getting busy, finalizing plans for the New Year, 2020. Already the ULP administration is engaging the public servants in the preparation of the estimates of revenue and expenditure for the 2020 fiscal year. This will form the basis for the 2020 Appropriation Bill, commonly known as The Budget. These discussions are expected to be very intense, given the work programme of the ULP administration, and the many projects to be completed, with a start date of 2020. Already one of the issues identified by the ULP, is the ability of the state enterprise, to carry out the number of operational activities, to commence the workload related to the projects that have been announced. Already Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has said that the implementation of these projects will challenge the resources of the State. Indeed, the Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves said during his budget address last year, that “we continue to be challenged by a limited pool of qualified local contractors, all of whom are overstretched…”. The general feeling is that there are constraints in the public and private sectors, but the ULP administration is committed to battling these constraints, to ensure that projects are executed in a timely fashion.
Social Sector
Budget 2020 will also focus some attention on the social sector, and the areas of health, education and pension reform will come into focus. The ULP administration, with its “peoplecentered development focus”, will always seek to put people first in all its development work. The elderly must be protected, and the ULP will always ensure that a safety net is in place for this purpose. Education will occupy a pride of place in the 2020 budget. Never before in the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a government spent more on the educational sector, and the ULP must take pride of place for this effort. Today, there are more institutions offering children preschool and early childhood education; more children entering and graduating from secondary schools; more children attending and graduating from the Community College; more children receiving Government scholarships and assistance; and more students attaining university degrees than at any point in our history. We also enjoy more schools, more teachers, and more trained educators than ever before. That the Education Revolution has 2020 touched every household in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is beyond It is clear therefore that there will dispute. That this Government has be a high level of construction work in committed, forcefully and various parts of the State. Work on unambiguously, to investing in the the Mt. Wynne-Peter’s Hope project full development of our untapped will get underway in 2020, as well as human potential is an unassailable the government hotel at Diamond. historical reality that is known to all The project to expand Port Kingstown Vincentians. will take on some energy, with the relocation of some residents in the Conclusion Bottom Town area, and the private sector projects at Blacksand in the To continue the transformation of Keartons area, and the Royal Mill our economy, we must increase our hotel in the Calliaqua area, will get productivity. We must work hard and underway. smart. We must build resilience. And In the case of the Central Leeward we must creatively capitalise on area, some 300 million dollars will be education and training to adapt to a spent between the Marriot project, rapidly-changing local and global and the Blacksand resort. This is a environment. financial and economic boost for the Looking ahead, we are excited by people in this area, as well as folks the massive activity scheduled for from the constituency of North 2020, as projects in the formative Leeward, and even South Leeward. stages this year blossom into fullThere will be jobs for labourers, fledged implementation. We have a masons, carpenters, plumbers and country to build, and Budget 2020 electricians. accelerates our timetable for creating People in the Calliaqua area are a modern, competitive post-colonial already seeing the construction work Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. as the Rain Forest Seafood Company The process of social and economic out of Jamaica, prepares the site for transformation is neither effortless its operations. This will be a major nor linear. In the 40 years since we development in the blue economy, and reacquired our independence, the already our fisherfolk are getting global political and economic order excited over the opportunities on offer. has been rewritten. The financial Amidst the big ticket items in the architecture has been restructured, economy, will be a drive to empower and our previous resilience to weather our young entrepreneurs, to provide events has been all but removed. As a them with the business skills to make Small Island Developing State with their enterprises more successful. The high vulnerabilities and limited Education Revolution has given a capacity to insulate ourselves — number of our young Vincentians the economically or environmentally — the knowledge to create their own task of transformation is doubly business opportunities. But in the difficult. context of our economy and our Finally, Budget 2020 will reflect society, this knowledge could only the efforts of the ULP administration, take them so far. What is required is to give a good account to the a type of mentorship programme to international community, as the give them the additional knowledge country takes its seat at the Security and skills. In some cases, we simply Council of the United Nations, the have to hold their hands. smallest nation to do this.
ON 5TH DECEMBER, 2019, the New Democratic Party (NDP) celebrated its 44th anniversary. It is the oldest political party in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The NDP governed St. Vincent and the Grenadines for seventeen years. During its tenure in office, the NDP transformed St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The main objectives of the NDP are, to raise the standard of living of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines through the development of the economic resources of the country in a manner that provides equal opportunity for all; to ensure the highest standard of rectitude in public life; to guarantee the maximum expression of democratic liberties by all citizens; to lead in the building of a dynamic society and to encourage the organization of citizens into responsible groups for the advancement of their causes. The founding father, Sir James Mitchell, led the party to victory in general elections of 1984. Vincentians said ‘Enough is Enough’ to an oppressive and corrupt Labour government. The impressive team NDP and a message of hope propelled it to victory in the general elections of that year. They met a country in shambles, and set out to fix it immediately. With well-defined objectives, a clear vision, effective policies, astute leadership and sound financial management, the NDP governed St. Vincent and the Grenadines from 1984 to 2001, having won general elections in 1984, 1989, 1994 and 1998. In 1989, the party won all fifteen seats. However, a grave injustice was done to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, when the life of the NDP government (1998) was cut short by the ‘Road Bock Revolution’. During the period in office, the economy was booming. There was an average of 5% economic growth annually. All the productive sectors contributed significantly to the economic development. Agriculture played the dominant role, in particular the banana industry. In 1990, St. Vincent and the Grenadines earned $120 million, and in 1992, $112 million from bananas. Vincentians enjoyed an improved standard of living. A middle class was developed and unemployment was at its lowest. The flag ship of the NDP was its land reform programme; where lands were given to the landless. For example, Rabbacca, Colonaire, Sans Souci and Diamond estates were distributed to the poor and working class. There were also major developments to the infrastructure of this country. We saw the construction of hundreds of miles of feeder roads which the farmers used daily. Vincentians showed great appreciation and welcomed the development of the village roads which the Labour Party called ‘gouti track’. And there was a marked improvement to housing stock. Vincentians saw the transformation of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority and the St. Vincent Electricity Services. When the NDP left office, 90% of the country had electricity. The NDP provided electricity to the villages north of the ‘Dry River’ and built the main road from Fancy to Georgetown. Some of the other accomplishments of the NDP were the Financial Complex, Little Tokyo, the Cruise Ship Berth,
The Central Vegetable Market, Traffic Lights, Ottley Hall Marina, Sion Hill intersection, reconstruction of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, construction of airports in Canouan, Bequia and Union Island, and the Canouan Development Project which presently employs hundreds of Vincentians. Women made significant advancement during the period. Among other things, the NDP established the Gender Unit, and the Department of Women Affairs was created. It was the NDP that cleared the obstacle of unequal pay through the passage of the Equal Pay Act which allowed women and men to be paid equally. Women were also the recipients of lands at Orange Hill. As a matter of fact, 38% of lands distributed at Orange Hill was given to women. The NDP also repealed the Coutts Agreement which required female teachers to resign upon pregnancy. And married women started to file Income Tax Returns independent of their husbands. Extensive work was done to develop the education system. It was clear that the structure of administration and management of education was as irrelevant and outmoded as was the antiquated Education Act of 1937 and related regulations, which were guiding the system. The following necessary and urgent steps were taken immediately: the combined posts of Permanent Secretary and Chief Education Officer were separated; a Chief Education Officer was appointed; an Education Planner was chosen and a Planning Unit created. In addition, a Curriculum Development Officer was appointed and a Curriculum Development Unit was established and, with a keen eye on evaluation, the ministry set up a Testing and Measurement Unit. Among the earliest results of the work of the new Education Planner was the startling revelation that 60% of our school plant was grossly overcrowded. It is now history: the NDP government implemented a shift system in schools to facilitate an ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of schools programme without having to close any school. The result of the exercise was the rehabilitation of 40% of the nation’s school plant by a committed NDP government. It must be mentioned that the NDP began paying the Economic Cost for all students attending the UWI, introduced the Student Loan Scheme, and constructed phase one of the Community College. On our 44th anniversary, we salute our leaders, Sir James Mitchell, the Hon. Arnhim Eustace and Dr. the Hon. Godwin Friday. To our members, supporters and all those who have contributed and worked tirelessly to build the party, we express our sincere gratitude to you. As we look forward to take once again the reign of governance in this country, let us redouble our efforts to the cause. We are inspired by the quality candidates that the party continues to attract, and enthused by the mass movement of persons from all strata of society especially the youth who are joining the party. The NDP will make SVG work for all Vincentians.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 11.
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Grandfather’s Clocks
Social Explosion is coming
“Every successful individual knows that his or her achievement depends on a community of persons working together.” Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa (born 1952) – South African politician and the fifth and current President of Each of these timepieces relied on South Africa. some very intricate (and seemingly insignificant) parts working together. IT IS OFTEN QUITE AMAZING TO REFLECT on childhood observations and One little cog out of place or broken experiences that have created valuable could prevent the timepiece from working. The big cogs played their life lessons. Many of this column’s role. But the little cogs had their readers can attest to the fact that they have been blessed by the guidance that value too. None of them could make the timepiece work independent of emerged from observing the traits and each other. This is also very true in positive attitudes of individuals who life — we all have important roles to cared enough to teach them basic life play. Some may have to play roles skills – the principles that keep that put them in the limelight, but societies strong. Parents, guardians, and teachers are often at the top of our their tasks cannot be successfully accomplished without those who work lists of individuals to encourage us to behind the scenes. Sometimes we excel. This reality recently emerged forget this to be true; we each have a during a conversation held with Dr. role to play in our homes, schools, Daniel Garraway, one of the prominent workplaces, and churches. The levels medical doctors in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He shared valuable lessons of responsibility will vary, but every task is important — even those that of individuals who encouraged him to appear to be insignificant. excel: the scout master who provided The truth that is captured in the selfless community service to the boys in his rural community; the members of preceding paragraph should help to his 4-H Club who shared insights about keep us humble. We should never assume that we are more important making the best better; the classmate at medical school who patiently assisted or valuable than another because we perform a different task. In addition, him to understand science-based the content should inspire us to subjects; and so on. Examples that perform each task to the best of our remind us that our successes are the ability, knowing that it will enhance result of a community of persons the overall performance of the home, working together. workplace, or church. There are The idea of working together and several passages in the Bible that pausing to assist each other along encourage such an approach. For life’s path should be encouraged example, in Ecclesiastes 9:10 we read, within our homes, workplaces, and “Whatsoever your hands find to do, do the wider community. We should it with all your strength …”. regularly reflect on the fact that no Similarly, in Colossians 3:23 we are one of us is as good as all of us reminded that, “Whatever you do, (working in unity). Additionally, we must understand and appreciate that work heartily, as unto the Lord and not unto man …”. We create and we each have an important role to sustain more productive home and play in keeping the fabric of society work environments when we portray strong. Observing my stepsuch attitudes. Each of us, focused on grandfather while just a little boy, being the best that we can be, will often created and sustained many of enhance overall performance. And in these useful life lessons. Arthur Billinghurst was married to the process, we create a greater sense of accomplishment and self-worth. my maternal grandmother. They The personal and corporate benefits lived in a two-storey house in Frenches (just north of Mills’ Funeral will be tremendous. As we end this week’s discourse, it Home). The bedrooms were on the upper floor. The ground floor housed is probably useful for us to remind ourselves to avoid gazing at what the kitchen, dining room, and a shower. In addition, it provided work others around us are doing (or not space for my grandmother’s shop and doing). When we focus on being the best that we can be, regardless of how my grandpa’s workshop. He was a insignificant we may consider popular multi-talented artisan who, among other things, repaired watches ourselves to be, we discover that we live happier and more successful lives. and clocks. As a little boy, I enjoyed sitting on the staircase leading to the Returning to the example of my grandfather’s clock, we understand upper floor and peering in to his and appreciate that the “long hand” of workshop as he repaired clocks. the clock has its own work to perform Sometimes, as a result of the limited space in his workshop, he would bring as does the “short hand”. There is no need for envy and/or jealousy to be the mechanical time pieces into the hallway adjoining the staircase. I am given birth or to be nurtured (as often happens when we look at others). In not aware that he had any formal this scenario, we readily understand training in clock repairs, but he the futility and danger of either seemed to have been able to wanting to be like the other. They dismantle these intricate machines, have different roles to play, and when clean and/or repair the parts, and reassemble them in a relatively short they do so correctly (and in harmony) space of time. Many of the clocks that many can benefit from their coordinated effort. There is value in the owners had presumed to have been dead, were given new life in my working together for a common good. grandfather’s workshop. Send comments, criticisms & Observing grandpa fix watches and suggestions to clocks taught me a useful life lesson. julesferdinand@gmail.com
ACROSS THE WORLD there is growing inequality. It matters not whether we speak of Australia or Zimbabwe, Russia or Botswana, England or SVG. The moneyed class will celebrate while the majority of people find it difficult to care for their families. As the US stock market continues to set records, and the economy creates millions of new jobs, many Americans are forced to settle for low-paying work and meager benefits. Wall Street has witnessed one of its most robust earning seasons on record, unemployment is at its lowest rate in 50 years, while many corporations are swimming in cash. But, as so often happens in the shady world of business and markets, all is not as it would appear. Just below the shiny surface of Wall Street’s epic success story, an epic tragedy is unfolding as millions of workers are silently struggling paycheck to paycheck, doing what they can to make ends meet while raising a family. The numbers are sobering. According to data released by the Brookings Institution, 53 million Americans between the ages of 18 to 64 fall under the category of “low wage.” Their hourly pay comes out to around $10.22, while median annual earnings are $18,000. Most startling however, is that this group of wage-earners accounts for 44 percent of the entire US workforce. In other words, it may be a bit too early to start popping the champagne corks just yet. And it gets worse. Many of these low wage workers are not the stereotypical teenagers flipping hamburgers at McDonald’s for some extra spending cash on weekends. In fact, the majority of people who fall into this category are adults in their “prime working years,” and low paying work is the “primary way they support themselves and their families,” the report revealed. Other research supports the finding of the study. According to a new economic metric called the Job Quality Index, 63 percent of all jobs that were created since 1990 were low-salary jobs, many of them part-time. Today, the real US average wage, that is, the wage after calculating for inflation, has approximately the same purchasing power it did 40 years ago. And what gains were made inside of companies mostly went to the highest-paid executives. There are many reasons for this intense inequality, not least of all the collapse of labor unions, which once upon a time gave employees a real democratic voice inside of the workplace. Also to blame is the decadeslong exodus of US corporations to foreign shores in their eternal quest for cheap labor and high profits. Some analysts conclude it was this concern over the hemorrhaging of wellpaid manufacturing jobs, many of them to China and Mexico, which largely propelled Donald Trump into the White House in 2016. However, Trump’s claim about wanting to drain the swamp, has turned out to be all crocodile tears with no real concern for those at the bottom of the income scale. America is being made great for the rich and powerful, not working people struggling to care for their families. In fact, the US government economic policies, especially the current trade war with China, may only succeed at sinking the US economy, while dragging down the rest
of the global economy with it. With regard to dwindling US paychecks for increasingly unattractive jobs, the danger here, aside from the very real risk of future social upheaval, is that if the number of ‘have-nots’ reaches a certain threshold of the population, then the overall health of the economy will begin to suffer accordingly. After all, workers are not just workers. They are also consumers, an integral part of any modern economy, and if their jobs start paying less, they will naturally consume less, thereby appearing as a storm front on the economic horizon. At the same time, it is important to note that it is not only the health of the economy that is at risk. Judging by recent data, a surplus of low-wage jobs appears to be having a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of the average American. According to a report released this month by the National Center for Health Statistics, life expectancy in the United States fell between 2016 and 2017, fueled by drug overdoses and suicides, continuing a downward trend for the last three years. Today, Americans can expect to live 78.6 years, a decline of three-tenths of a year since 2014. “We’re living in a developed country with a fairly sophisticated health care system and lots of resources… and now all of the sudden it seems to (have) reversed,” Robert Anderson, chief of the Mortality Statistics Branch at the National Center for Health Statistics, told US News and World Report. Anderson called the decline “concerning.” It would be very difficult to argue that there is no connection between the ongoing mental and physical health of people and the amount of money they are earning to support themselves and their families. That expensive burden seems at least partially to blame for the precipitation of drug abuse, domestic violence, and even suicide in the US. How to reverse the trend of decreasing low-wage labor in the United States is another question. Although Trump seems right in wanting to reinvigorate America’s manufacturing base, that is a massive project that will not occur overnight, if at all. In the meantime, one possible answer is an increase in the minimum wage, or higher taxes on US corporations in order to provide more assistance to those Americans now falling through the cracks of one of the most cutthroat capitalist societies ever created. If the majority of Americans continue to be treated as economic outcasts in their own country, it is difficult to see how the Wall Street traders and investors will continue to celebrate every holiday with heavy bonuses. There is a wolf on Wall Street, and it is called inequality. Wall Street needs to slay it if it wants the good times to continue. The corridors of power and privilege across the world will similarly have to address the numerous problems faced by their own people if massive social explosions are to be avoided. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
V High road tax, low quality roads 12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
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farmers to get their produce to market. SVG’s roads are symptomatic of the neglect this country has suffered under the incompetent ULP regime. Unable to create sustainable sources of revenue, the ULP regime has let roads, schools and other essential ROAD TAX is very high in SVG, and we have stopped growing produce, country is a sign of deep poverty and infrastructure fall in to ruin and states ask ourselves’ “What are we paying road slums. Seems like the ULP regime is because they know they will not be tax for”? trying to turn SVG into Haiti in every able to get their produce from the field of severe disrepair. This we can see throughout the country, and it is Throughout SVG, the roads are bad. way possible. and down to market. disgraceful for the government to treat Many potholes are left for years to get Farmers have said that the ULP bigger and deeper before they are Road tax money regime has failed to maintain existing the people this way. A Green government would properly fixed, if ever. The low quality of the feeder roads, and these roads have maintain SVG’s road. The roads are roads is very damaging to people’s Where is all the road tax money fallen into such a state of disrepair important for trade and transporting vehicles. People are incurring extra, going anyway? It’s clearly not being that they are practically unusable. In unnecessary expenses to fix their spent on fixing roads. other areas, the ULP regime has failed people and goods around the country in a timely manner. Good roads are vehicles after they have been damaged Vincentians’ money is leaking out of to build new feeder roads needed by vital for our economy. by the road. our economy as it goes abroad to Some areas are so bad that when purchase spare parts to fix vehicles. you drive along the road, the bottom of This is wasted money that should be your car can scrape the road going into the SVG economy and occasionally, as the potholes are so supporting SVG businesses. terrible; the road to Indian Bay is an We are being more exposed to example of this, but there are many accidents on some roads, because I RECENTLY read the ECCB of not fulfilling its overseas governments. that are far worse. Take a drive to sometimes you need to drive on the developmental role in “It was not surprising Indian Bay and see how bad the road other (wrong) side of the road to avoid communique published after the 94th meeting of the East Caribbean” and therefore that in is. You get the impression that SVG is a big pothole on your side (of the road). the Monetary Council of that it “was probably the searching out sources of a failed state. Many farmers have complained to the Eastern Caribbean only Central Bank in the finance for economic According to Retired British Royal Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal that the Central Bank (ECCB) world which had 100% of development in countries Air Force Engineer Warrant Officer lack of good feeder roads means its reserves in foreign operating this currency Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, farmers often cannot get their produce held in October, and I system, attention was MBA, Leader of SVG Green to market. The feeder roads are so bad was somewhat surprised deposits.” to read that the foreign My 1988 article gave a given to modifying the Party, poor quality roads in any in some areas, that many farmers currency reserve backing brief history of the system in a way that ratio was almost 100%. Sterling Exchange would enable some of the The reason for that Standard, the monetary resources locked up in surprise stems from an framework of the British currency reserves to be article in The colonial system. Under used for its own Searchlight of 17th this standard the development. The November, 2017, titled currencies issued in the question as to what “ECCB considers using various colonies had as proportion was to be portion of foreign reserve their backing (up to 110 backed by local securities for economic percent) securities of the that is lent to the development”. That story UK or other government itself was to made me feel then that — commonwealth countries, be based on that part of at long last — the ECCB but not of the countries the currency issue that would be fully embracing themselves. With the would never be its true role as a regional end of the second world presented for development institution. war came a renewed conversion.” So when the recent interest in the So, it was a logical communique stated that development of the and sensible provision the foreign reserve British Colonies and an for the ECCU to make, currency backing was increased scrutiny of the when in Article 42 of the 99.3%, I was colonial monetary and ECCU Agreement (1976) disappointed. The financial machinery. a minimum foreign communique made no “The main criticism of currency reserve backing mention of the status of the [monetary] system”, I requirement of 60 the proposed 2017 wrote, “relates to the percent was set. The initiative — and it all left mobilization of a colony’s rationale being that this me wondering whether reserves in the required would allow, in the the matter is still “under 100 percent reserve words of Mr Antoine, consideration” or backing. The essential “the Central Bank to whether it was just feature of the sterling play the role of financier “talk”! exchange system was of economic The problem is: this is that the reserves development.” But in not a new issue. Way corresponding to the the same sentence (as back in 1988 (thirty-one consumption foregone in quoted) he went on to years ago), I published order for a country to point out that “this has an article in the thenincrease its holding of never been done.” And he popular (but now currency, were not noted that the provision defunct) regional retained within the same has been included in the newspaper EC News to economy. The bank’s strategic plan. So address this very issue. requirement that the UK the question is: is it The piece, entitled “The government or other going to be done? The Crux of Protective Commonwealth rationale for doing it is Policies” referred to an government securities be clear and present. Or, is address by Dr D. held against issues of this all just talk? Budhoo to the Grenada currency notes meant, in Chamber of Commerce in effect, that those Claude C. Samuel which he “accused the reserves were lent to
Is this just talk?
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 13.
Education
Foreign students happy with RVA FOREIGN STUDENTS who recently completed programmes at the Richmond Vale Academy (RVA) said that they would cherish the memories and knowledge gained during their time there. They admit to be better equipped to make a positive impact on their communities. One such course at the RVA is a one-month Climate Compliance Course, which is a shortened version of six-month and ten-month courses also offered at the RVA. Mckeefe Davis, a teacher at the Academy, said the one-month focuses first on the theories and concepts of climate change, then a practical aspect. Topics covered include Climate Change, Global Warming and its
Effects, Climate Refuge, Climate Mitigation and Adaptation. Student graduate with a certificate which is said to be recognized around the world. Jamie Huggins, a soldier in the St. Kitts and Nevis Defense Force, was the third person from his country to have attended RVA. He was selected to attend the Academy to further his knowledge in farming, something that he does part-time. He was impressed with the different methods of farming to which he was introduced, and recognized the benefits they could bring to his own efforts, and to those of the Defense Force’s effort to develop a farming project aimed at decreasing its food
Bequia resident gains Trinity scholarship SHANIA LESLIE of Bequia, a member of the Trinity School of Medicine Class of 2023, has been awarded the Trinity Vincentian Scholarship for 2019. This award comes from Trinity School of Medicine, in association with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Shania, who has already completed her pre-med education and one term of the ten terms in the medical programme at Trinity, will receive: $13,900 USD or $37,366 ECD for each of the first five terms, and $15,200 USD or $40,860 ECD for each of the remaining five terms. Obviously elated at her achievement, Shania gave a background to her accomplishment. “I studied really hard at pre-med and at my one term of MD before application,” she said, “and think that I deserved it!” Gaining the scholarship, she said, acts as a way of giving back to her parents, who have worked hard through their lives to provide the best for their children. “Basically, I wanted to give my parents an ease on their finances. My father would work day and night to facilitate us,
so I’m just working hard to give back to them in this way,” she explained then added, “I have a younger sister who wants to be an architect, and my parents will now only have to deal with that!” To be eligible for this award, candidates, among other things, must be accepted for admission to Trinity School of Medicine, having achieved a 3.2 GPA or United States Equivalent in prerequisite courses as defined by Trinity School of Medicine. As far as Shania was concerned, even after having satisfied all the requirements, she was still in doubt about whether or not she would beat out her competitors. “The Vincentians at Trinity are smart, so the competition was great and I’m sure there are students here as smart as I am, or even smarter,” she admitted. With this accolade, the eager Trinity future physician is cognizant of the fact that there are certain expectations to which she will have to live. She, having been a very hard worker from the onset, admits that her journey into exercising commitment will now become more strenuous. Acknowledging this,
Shania Leslie is aware of the expectations that she now has to fulfil. she said, “Many people have been looking up to me — the first doctor in my family; as a Vincentian in a school that is predominantly American… all the housekeepers and security guards all look up to me, always wanting me to do well. You could imagine that I have to continue to work harder, putting in more than the already sixteen hours a day. I neither want to disappoint anyone nor myself. I want to be a doctor first and foremost!” Under the terms of the award, the successful candidate is expected to return to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to offer service. Shania is looking forward to that day when she can do just that.
(L-R): Students Jamie Huggins, Nicola Wayne, Romona Rainer and teacher Mckeefe Davis. bill. Nicola Wynne of the United Kingdom and a first time student to organic farming and related subjects, praised RVA for bringing people together. “It’s been really fulfilling. We have learned a lot in the short time since we have been here. We started off working on site at the Richmond Vale Academy; there was an organic garden and a kitchen garden in which we were practising our skills to take into the community afterwards,” she said. Wayne’s team focused on the community of Chateaubelair where they planted food crops and established a compost shed. Romana Rainer is from Austria. She said that she was able to see firsthand the effect of climate, saying, “It was a good experience to see the
impact of climate change. We have seen a lot of places where the storm and water created destruction and we talk to people who witnessed the storm.” “I have other perspectives now, and I am looking to integrate it in my new project back home,” she said of her experience. Both Rainer and Wynne agreed that one of the most challenging aspects of being at RVA was living in community, to which they had never been exposed. Over time, they learned to deal with it, and admitted it was “not challenging like we were necessarily uncomfortable about it. We were quite lucky; we all got along and we all enjoyed each other’s company. So we made it all work,” Rainer said. (KH)
14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 15.
Land for sale on Michael Rahael Boulevard, San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago
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16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 17.
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18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts Festival Review
DorothyÊs ChallengeAn SVGCC PAS treat by JP SCHWMON jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com LAST WEEKEND, the drama club of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College Performing Arts Society opted to stage an adaption of Zeno Obi Constance’s one act play “Dorothy’s Challenge”, as their contribution to the 2019 Bank of SVG sponsored National Theatre Arts Festival. The opening exposition was shrouded in much hilarity as long time friends Mildred (Dianna Cain) and Dorothy (Simesha Millington) engaged in some must be shared gossip. This first scene established three of the overarching themes that are treated in the adaptation - Calypso, Rum and Comess — functions of a Caribbean reality.
Dorothy collars one of her daughters.
Anti-retrenchment protest.
the story forward in a unique sequence. Not only does time lapse, complete with appropriately used lightning cues, but there is a complete change of Transition well executed circumstances as the family and friends gathered onstage now become a group of As Blackie (Zanique Andrews) is employees under threat of losing their introduced, the audience gets to meet a jobs. calypsonian of some local renown and This transition was very well appreciation. The assembled are eager to executed, as the refrain of the calypso hear her latest rendition and after some being performed by Blackie becomes the prompting, she indulges, which moves mantra that the protest leader (also
The post intermission action got underway with some faltering in the hitherto cohesive momentum. Where previous scenes transitioned smoothly, disguised in onstage action, new scenes were demarcated by black outs. The effect is somewhat negative, given the fact that the pace suffers as recycled cast members must find themselves in new positions, with some slight costume and sometimes character changes. The intended effect does not quite hit the spot if only because the timing between each scene is relatively drawn out, given what pertains as the lights come up. During some of these black outs, the writer juxtaposes media reports with onstage action as the opening joviality gives way to more weighty socioeconomic concerns. This was mirrored in his treatment of civil unrest at home and abroad as workers protest against threats of retrenchment and activists persevere in conditions of dire poverty A few pointers exemplified by extreme starvation. A flashback to Blackie as she While the colouration that went into attempts to continue writing her calypso the characterisations presented last can be seen as a timely reminder that weekend were quite laudable, a few the audience is being treated to a form of pointers can only serve to improve the storytelling from a calypsonian’s performers’ craft. Sarwan Gibson perspective. portrayed a convincing drunkard, for the Though relatively minor, in the scale most part, though his love for his liquid of the production, it must be said that “appetizer” could have been better the tendency to overlook articulated accentuated at times. Further, his props should stop. One scene, vaguely performance would have benefited reminiscent of a calypso’s bridge, takes immensely had he paused for a few beats place at a Customs Officer’s desk as he is to allow for the audience’s raucous processing some returnees; they make reactions to die off before continuing such a fuss about a non-existent cake with his deliveries. The result is that that it was a total disappointment when much of his follow-ons from punch lines the cast failed to produce the prop. were lost. Being able to hold moments is There were several instances where much easier said than done, but practice better timed reactions could have been forms immutable habits, and the more potent, so much so that the end of collaboration of the onstage cast would the play, when it came, would have been go a long way to maintain the all the more appreciated. momentum. The SVGCC PAS should be proud of When the actor is attempting to their efforts all told. Attempting such an establish and maintain control but fails august piece would have undoubtedly to command his movements, they mimic had its own challenges but to be able to nervous tics. The vocal authority being present this conversation on Caribbean projected, then, becomes indelibly foibles, more or less coherently, is indeed weakened as in the case of Tesorero’s praiseworthy. white supremacist cop, who is seen Reeja’s Theatre Alliance would bring barking South Afrikaan propaganda at the festival curtains down this weekend black Afrikaans before ordering their just before the festival committee stages deaths in a mass shooting. As the story its first National Theatre Awards on moves on, yet again, into a starvation Sunday 8th December. ravished Ethiopian ghetto where the dead lay out in the open, it becomes succinctly clear that Dianna Cain, in her latest role as the African Mama, is quite aware of the difference between merely reciting lines and emoting on delivery. The inconsolable anguish, the raw pain and ringing desolation could all be heard and felt as she proclaims “I would never be comforted!”
played by Andrews) chants as she encourages her workmates to stay the course and fight against the injustices, real or imagined, that forced them onto the protest line. The pace quickens as the sole dissenting voice (Alisha Decaul) against the protest meets with a fatal end at the hand of a uniformed police officer (Alejandro Tesorero). Here again was another well performed transition as the scene now changes to an Afrikaan state evidenced by the aptly illustrated accent changes and somewhat stereotypical mannerisms. One almost gets the sense that he is caught up in one of Blackie’s calypsos.
Black outs and ‘missing’ props
White supremacist cop kills black protestor.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 19.
Theatre Arts
National Theatre Arts Awards set for Sunday Night Sean Frederick, 2019 Theatre Arts Festival’s Public Relations Coordinator, speaks of the changes in 2019 Awards, and glances at possibly even more far-reaching changes in the future.
Ceremony. Admission is free, and potential audience members can expect a few WITH THE CURTAINS SET TO surprises by way of the CLOSE on the 13th edition of proposed entertainment. the Bank of SVG sponsored The National Theatre National Theatre Arts Festival Awards would feature, this weekend, the organising amongst other categories, a committee is poised to honour National Critique Award festival participants by way of which is to be nominated by what is to become an annual the local theatre critics who National Theatre Awards. have published their reviews Reeja’s Theatre Alliance in either of the local would take to the Peace newspapers, two Lifetime Memorial Hall stage on Friday Achievement awards plus two and Saturday of this weekend Festival Partner Recognition with their much anticipated awards. ‘The Mistress of Wholesome’ Other new features include production. Then on Sunday an upgrade from Dramatist of evening, the general public is the Year to a Spirit of the invited to share in the Awards Festival Award. Only by JP SCHWMON jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com
nominees in lead roles would qualify for this tribute. The task of selecting the winning candidate rests on the shoulders of several judges as well as random surveys of selected audience members. Judges would also name a Production of the Year which would depend on which club’s presentation “captured the whole essence of the festival. Looking at the theme which was ‘feel the passion, experience the excitement’… all of the elements of the productions… front of house, set, the actors, the flow — if an MC was used how was he able to flow — as well as the general response of the audience in
terms of satisfaction,” according to the Festival’s Public Relations Coordinator Sean Frederick. This novel format comes several years after the concept then dubbed “The Drammy’s” was discontinued. This new format is expected to grow to include productions staged during Vincy Mas, as well as other productions outside of the National Theatre Arts Festival which is generally housed at the Peace Memorial Hall annually. “It [The Drammy’s] was mainly discontinued because the organisations wanted to take a new direction, wanted to refresh, reenergize in terms
of the way forward. Similarly too as of next year — the suggestion was made and strongly accepted for us to have a theme maybe to produce all classics and the following year to do all Caribbean writers and the following year to do maybe Afrikaan plays… the year to come would see us approaching the Festival from different angles,” Frederick also said. Sunday night’s National Theatre Festival Awards show would begin at 7:30 p.m.
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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Entertainment
Steel Expressions 8: ‘Where Music Lives’
THE AMBIENCE aboard the M.V. Gem Star last Monday was fit for a ‘moonlight’ cruise to the Grenadines but that was not to be. Instead, invited guests and media personnel boarded the boat at the Grenadines Wharf for the media launch with a difference of Steel Expressions 8. Steel Expressions 8 is set for December 28, at the main Arnos Vale Playing Field, under the theme: ‘Where Music Lives’. Once again, organizers are promising an exciting if not thrilling evening of entertainment. Billed act, Rodney Small, pannist extraordinaire, will be joined by local artistes Brian Maloney, Ronnie Richardson, Samuel Toka, Tamara Jackson, Saed Bowman, Dynamite, Gallanaire, Fireman Hooper, Kathy Millar and Lil Chris. Jamaican reggae musician Michael ‘Ibo’ Cooper and soca artiste Teddyson John of St. Lucia will add further variety to the evening’s entertainment. Rodney Small, Executive Producer and Artistic Director of RS Productions, addressing the gathering, pledged to “…lift the bar even higher…, this year the trend continues and promises to take it to another level.” Small explained that, “This year we are taking a modernized approach to our production, where we are going to incorporate a lot of technology and focus a lot more on delivery and experience. A lot of Multimedia work will be displayed as we show the evolution of Productions across the globe. Our Bar and Food area will be completely digitized, creating a better experience for our patrons and (there will be) a major step up in our security and parking areas.” The Producer also announced that part of the proceeds from Steel Expressions 8 will go to the World Paediatric
Rodney Small, Executive Producer and Artistic Director of RS Production, (right) seen here accepting a sponsorship cheque from a KPMG representative, promised that Steel Expressions will take entertainment to “another level.” Programme (WPP), which continues to provide the nation’s children with the highest level of health care possible. Lauren McIntosh, Executive Director/WPP, was on hand to express thanks on behalf of WPP for having been selected by RS Productions as its 2019 Charity Recipient. Also making brief remarks was Roddy Dowers, Captain of Starlift Steel Orchestra, who described Small “..as the beacon for steel pan in SVG,.. and Steel Expression as a “major household event.” Kevin Rodriquez, Managing Director of Agape Performing Arts Theatre, who said that “.. Steel Expressions has become more than a pan show .. it has become a movement.” Ricardo Adams, Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) noted
that, “It’s good that Rodney is making this event part of our charity calendar,… and CDC is happy to partner with RS Productions.” Following the addresses, a ‘contribution’ was handed over to the WPP by the FLARE Committee, and KPMG sealed their sponsorship of Steel Expressions for the 3rd straight year. The launching also witnessed performances from pannist Saeed Bowman and reggae artiste Ibuza. (KH)
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 21.
22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 23.
News
Alliance Française turns 50
for both adults and juniors — put on by the French Ministry of Education. This allows OVER THE LAST 50 YEARS, l’Alliance for French language Française de St Vincent et les Grenadines students to be awarded has been fulfilling its mandate to promote “an internationally the French language and culture here. recognized diploma in The non-profit organization found French.” roots here in 1969, through the efforts of l’Alliance Française’s Lennox John, former Headmaster at the rich history evolved on St. Vincent Grammar School and the strength of funding Bishop’s College Kingstown; but from the French perhaps better known for his government in the early contribution to the administration of 80s. This enabled the cricket in SVG. association to disburse Lennox John – In 1969, while in England on a onescholarships and initiate spearheaded the year Commonwealth scholarship “to an educational mission Dance workshops have become part and parcel of l’Alliance formation of what is study the teaching of French [at] the whose the core objective Française’s programming. now known as University of Manchester,” John took was to train secondary advantage of a six-week training course school French teachers. l’Alliance Française de writing competitions have commemorate International for foreign French teachers by l’Alliance Following a St Vincent et les Francophonie Day. To this end, a mixed been produced. Local Française of Paris. devastating fire in 1989 Grenadines. bag exhibition is being planned - fashion, musicians benefit from the which obliterated all of dance, visual art and musical recitals, Artists Club and its From a car trunk to an institution the organisation’s records photo display — to coincide with the monthly staging at l’Alliance Française up to that time, and intense on Wednesday evening, though there has observance of Heritage Month. Upon his homecoming later that same negotiations, l’Alliance Française Looking ahead, Directrice Vanessa been some setbacks with this initiative. year, John decided to start his own secured its first real home — the Demirciyan envisions a continuing role Mindful of the challenges budget version of an l’Alliance Française while Carnegie Hall (Old Library) in for l’Alliance Française locally as she constraints can have on l’Alliance teaching French at the St. Vincent Kingstown, 20 years after Lennox John says “the region is opening up… a lot of Française endeavours, the director Grammar School. Then the birthed it into fruition. sources about the Garifuna are in applauded a few of their local partners Francophiles numbered amongst the for their continuous contributions. They French, more people would need to be local business folk, French teachers and A local Director and a varied programme include (but are by no means limited to) trained in French to help with “simply friends who had a common translations… diplomacy, in journalism Sweetie Pie Bakery on Mustique, the interest in the French language.” Although these negotiations provided Ministries of Culture and or any trade really.” Without a home of its own, Lennox for the full renovation of the Old The General Assembly, though, is Education, Gonsalves Liquors, Kiddies John’s l’Alliance Française roved from Library, complete with a museum on the Korner, Garifuna Heritage Foundation, expected to meet in December to ‘flesh meeting place to meeting place, following ground floor, it was met with much out’ the forward path for l’Alliance SVG AMP and Dolphin Gymnastics. its inaugural get-together at the Peace opposition by local agitators, despite the Française. Memorial Hall. The Cobblestone Inn, fact that the venue was hitherto overrun Not an embassy Grammar School, members’ private by vagrants. homes and even car trunks all hosted The French government continued to Directrice Demirciyan reminded THE these pioneering French lovers who just express direct interest in the operations VINCENTIAN that contrary to ongoing wanted “to share the pleasure of of the local l’Alliance Française, and public perception, l’Alliance Française is speaking French.” appointed several directors over the not an embassy or any other form of Today, l’Alliance Française is an intervening years up until 2008, when diplomatic mission. established entity here, known for its anthropologist Vanessa Demirciyan “We generally help with translations commitment to teaching the language to became the first locally appointed of all types of documents, and we may Vincentians of all ages at any level of Directrice de l’Alliance Française. facilitate some services and on some very proficiency. Such classes are offered on Building on the organisation’s legacy rare occasions may assist with some schedule with all secondary school of promoting cultural diversity while levels of diplomacy if called upon; but we students being able to avail themselves reinforcing ties between SVG and French are not an embassy or anything like at the Girls High School. Private or speaking countries, Demirciyan and her that,” she stressed. specific classes for groups (such as taxi team of volunteers continue to bring Though the half century hallmark drivers, Custom Agents, etc.) are also together partners both here and abroad. was officially recognized on November Vanessa Demirciyan the first locally available on demand. And each year, at Overtime, hip hop and dancehall dance 13, celebratory festivities would not be appointed and still Directrice de the end of studies, l’Alliance Française workshops, theatre productions - in rolled out until March 2020 when the l’Alliance Française with some of her facilitates DELF/DALF exam sessions French, art exhibitions and poetry/essay global community is invited to students. by JP SCHMON jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com
Peace Corps Literacy Project commended MINISTRY OF EDUCATION officials on Thursday last week, commended a Peace Corps primary school literacy project that is coming to an end, and expressed strong support for another one to be developed. “The Primary English Literacy Project has been quite effective through the years,” said Mrs. Aldia Gumbs-Dyer, a Senior Education Officer. She was speaking at a meeting organized by the Peace Corps Eastern Caribbean Program supported by the Government of the United States. The meeting reviewed the progress made by the project in the last five years, and began
discussions on developing a follow-on project. Mrs. Gumbs-Dyer added, “Today is proof that we are committed to its success and continual improvement.” In addition to senior staff from the Ministry of Education, meeting participants included principals, teachers, Peace Corps Volunteers and Peace Corps staff, including the senior Peace Corps staff member in Saint Vincent, Cuthbert James, and the Peace Corps Eastern Caribbean Director of Programming and Training, Patrick Triano, who is based in Saint Lucia. Mr. Triano gave a presentation on the
progress achieved in the last five years, and then sought feedback that will be used to develop an even more effective second phase. “I am heartened by the commitment of the stakeholders,” he said. “The insights offered at the meeting will go a long way to developing an even stronger new project.” The goals of the project include improving student literacy levels in grades one through three, introducing new literacy instructional methods to teachers, and improving school, family and community partnerships in support of literacy. The project is a collaborative effort of Peace Corps, the
Ministry of Education, USAID, and OECS. The project also has been working in Grenada, Saint Lucia and Dominica. A Senior Education Officer noted that Peace Corps presence in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has historically been very positive. She recalled that as a young girl she benefited from the presence of a Volunteer in her community. Addressing the Volunteers present, she said, “Let me say that you may never know the extent or depth to which you touch the lives of others. But it is wonderful work you are doing.”
In the Eastern Caribbean, Peace Corps has been present since its inception in 1961. The goals of Peace Corps focus on supporting development and promoting intercultural understanding and friendship between
Program and Training Manager, Patrick Triano, fields a question from one of the participants.
Americans and the people of the countries where Volunteers serve. There are currently 20 volunteers living and working in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. (Source: USA Embassy, Barbados)
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24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Hypocrites at large!!!!
Dear George, SOME PEOPLE in the country are so hypocritical!! I feel like exposing them if they don’t reveal their real selves. The recent march in Kingstown protesting this homosexual rights thing got my attention. I understand those people who marched because they do not want certain laws to be passed in our society, but not those who are involved in the same thing they are marching against. I saw men marching who are on the other side, and married women who have girlfriends on the side. I saw this married woman, a staunch church-goer, marching who is currently involved with me. It’s time they get real and march for what they believe in. Such hypocrisy!!!
Disgusted
Dear Disgusted, Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world. Some people will always pretend to be what they are not. However, living in a society that is ready to judge , does not make it easy to reveal their true selves. It is not for you to expose anyone, especially knowing that such action will not make life any easier for those individuals concerned. Have a talk with the individual with whom you are involved, and maybe after you learn of their fears, you will be better positioned to help them.
George
A two-timing wife pictures. I asked them to own up to their wives or else I will have to give I HAVE BEEN dismissing stories about them some help to do my wife two-timing me, so. As for my wife, I have bring a man to my told her she is free to go house. In fact, I have whenever she pleases. I dismissed stories that do not want a that man was my boss counsellor. I am talking who, as I reflect, would to a lawyer right now. give me increased responsibility so I would And it’s time these worthless businessmen not leave work before 7pm while he goes to my stop their nastiness. Fire bun house and makes out them! with my wife. As it turned out, I went home unexpectedly Hurt bad and caught him and his Dear Hurt bad, friend at it with my wife. I have all the While you think you
Dear George,
do not need a counsellor, it may be worthwhile, all things considered, to talk this over with someone. Sometimes we believe we are fine, when in truth and in fact we are affected in ways unknowing to us. Whatever decision you are about to make, make certain you cross your T’s and dot your I’s. You have the right to decide on what’s best for you but just use all the counsel available to you, before you act.
George
Chasing a wild dream Dear George,
alive,
I AM MADLY in love with someone whom everybody tells me I cannot have. From the moment I saw this catholic nun, I fell in love with her. I have been attending the Catholic Church just to get closer to her. I don’t know how to tell her I love her. I believe she may be just looking for a chance to have another life, and I could be the one to draw her out. It would be a waste for her to remain a nun for the rest of her life. She is much too pretty and sexy to be wasting herself away in the church.
I do not know what would make you think this catholic nun is not happy where she is. Why would you say she is wasting herself away in service to the church? We all have our choices to make in life, and she has made hers.
Keeping hope alive. Dear Keeping hope
I would caution you not to allow your lustful desires to lead you to think you can convert this Nun from her devotion to a God and the church to join you. It’s good that you are going to church, but it’s sad that you do so for the wrong reasons. Get out of it now!!!!!
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Look into family outings or projects. Control your emotions and everything will fall into place. Hassles with close friends or family will put a damper on your day and result in isolation and loneliness. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Exercise is always a good way to relieve stress. Problems with your partner could be reaching a high level of concern. Chronic health problems are likely to surface if you are keeping your problems locked up inside. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) There’s a good chance that they won’t come back. Join a choir or a drama club. You may be considering moving to larger quarters. You will easily charm members of the opposite sex. Don’t get involved in joint ventures. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Take care of the needs or responsibilities of elders. Put your emotional energy into passion not anxiety Opportunities to get together with people in powerful positions could help you get ahead. First find out if they’re married.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may find yourself interested in more than one person. Spend some time on yourself. Put your efforts into your work or money making ventures rather than your emotional life. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Travel could include delays and other minor problems. You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate. Take special care in any home improvement project you work on this week, you’ll be glad you did. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Do not force your opinions on others the connections will be short lived. Take time to listen to the problems of family members. Travel is evident, but be cautious while in transit. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Take time to listen to children and help them with projects that seem impossible to them. You must lay down ground rules so that you can complete a job. You can meet interesting new friends if you join worthwhile groups.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You’ll find it easy to charm members of the opposite sex this week. You will be able to make favorable changes in your living quarters. Don’t be afraid to push your beliefs and attitudes.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Someone you work with may be trying to make you look bad. Make changes that will heighten your appeal. A long, quiet walk alone may help you sort out your thoughts. Try not to be too lavish with your lover.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You need to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm and confidence in you. You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities this week. Your lover will be extremely sensitive and it may not be a good time to make changes that they won’t like.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Concentrate on spending quality time with children. You will meet exciting new people through interest groups or functions that you attend with your children. Offers of joint ventures are likely.
ACROSS 1. Horse pace 5. PTA member 8. Jumps on one foot 12. Pasture measure 13. _ de Janeiro 14. Child of Eve 15. Toll 16. Loving verse 17. State south of Minnesota 18. Track circuit 20. Remainder 21. Deli roll 24. Those folks 27. Watchful 28. Sound catcher 29. Keg spigot 32. Aries symbol 33. Wash lightly 35. Color tint 36. “Cheerio!” 37. Blasting powder: abbr. 38. Singer Black 40. Inquires 41. Sample (a food) 42. Sky twinkler 45. Egyptian snake 46. Heap together 47. Lass 49. Eternally 53. Prayer end 54. Slick liquid 55. Spring flower 56. Call from a 4-Down 57. Attempt 58. Base stealer’s favorite word?
5. Plummet 6. Assist 7. Forest animal 8. Far from bald 9. Thin woodwind 10. Church benches 11. Wooden strip 19. Tips off 21. Nasty remark 22. See 47-Down 23. With 43-Down, moment for a kickoff 24. Camp shelters 25. Owns DOWN 26. Builds (a house) 1. Space between teeth 29. “_ is 2. Snoopy, in his WWI fantasies ridiculous!” 3. Lyricist Gershwin 30. Mom’s sis 4. Bank clerk
31. Sampras of tennis 34. Squid squirt 39. Jacket flaps 40. Fail to be 42. Reach over 43. See 23-Down 44. Emcee Trebek
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06 , 2019. 25.
45. Loyal friend 47. With 22-Down, escaped 48. Balloon contents 50. By means of 51. North Pole cutie 52. Dark bread
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26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Feature
Global response to Climate Change: Taiwan can be a valuable partner the vital task of bequeathing a sustainable environment to future generations. As a result of the current international political situation, Taiwan has been barred from participating in the Conference of the Parties held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Taiwan not daunted by Environmental opposition Protection Nevertheless, we Administration Minister continue to pursue Chang Tzi-chin. (Photo means of making Credit: Taipei Times) contributions to the international community. We have passed the Statement by Minister Greenhouse Gas Chang Tzi-chin, Reduction and Environmental Management Act, setting Protection long-term goals for Administration Taiwan’s reduction of Executive Yuan, R.O.C. greenhouse gases, and (Taiwan) formulated National October 2019 Climate Change Action Guidelines and a CONCENTRATIONS OF Greenhouse Gas ATMOSPHERIC CARBON Reduction Action Plan. DIOXIDE recorded at the Mauna Loa Observatory in We also drew up a Greenhouse Gas Hawaii hit a historic high of 415 parts per million in Reduction Emission Control Action Plan May 2019. The World covering Taiwan’s Meteorological energy, manufacturing, Organization has also transportation, released data showing residential and that June 2019 was the commercial development, hottest month in history, breaking records from New agricultural, and Delhi to the North Pole. As environmental sectors. With a clearly outlined President Hilda Heine of roadmap for national the Marshall Islands, an carbon emission ally of Taiwan, has urged reductions, the key the world, it is not worth points of this plan arguing or debating include promoting energy whether climate change will come to pass, for it is transformation; assisting manufacturers to become happening right now. green, low-carbon As a member of the global village, Taiwan is enterprises; developing green transportation and striving to combat expanding the use of lowclimate change and carbon vehicles; protect the Earth. upgrading energy-saving Indeed, we are playing an indispensable part in design standards for the
Taiwan’s first offshore wind turbines began commercial operations in the first quarter of this year. (Photo Credit: Swancor Holding Co.)
exteriors of new buildings; helping livestock farms recycle biogas; and strengthening methane recycling from waste landfills and industrial wastewater. Moreover, the approval of a Greenhouse Gas Control Implementation Plan proposed by local governments shows how Taiwan is responding to climate change collectively, from a central level to a local level. Our government has made significant progress in developing Taiwan’s renewable energy sector in recent years, actively pursuing policies designed to reduce coal-fired power generation, increase our use of natural gas, and promote green development. By 2025, we expect solar- and wind-power generation to produce 20?GW and 6.9?GW of electricity per year, respectively, and we are also launching numerous power-saving policies and actions under our Forwardlooking Infrastructure Development Program and similar initiatives. Meanwhile, our Green Finance Action Plan is focusing on such areas as finance, investment, fundraising, and talent incubation, supporting the development of the green energy sector by boosting financial incentives. In terms of technological research and development, Taiwan’s green technology policy covers energy development, energy storage, energy saving, and systems integration, drawing on forward-looking materials, sustainable technology, advanced energy-saving, smart systems, and similar areas to engage industry with the fruits of research in the academic world. And since the launch of our FormoSat-3 satellite in 2006, Taiwan has amassed over 10 million items of meteorological data, which it has provided, free of charge, to experts and scholars around the world for use in their scientific research. Furthermore, data
gathered following this year’s launch of the FormoSat-7 satellite will now improve accuracy even further when it comes to predicting severe weather events, making a great contribution to global weather forecasting and climate change action. Taiwan has brought together the relevant central government agencies to formulate a National Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan, constructing a resilient system that responds to eight aspects of climate change: disasters, basic infrastructure, water resources, homeland security, coastlines, energy and industry, agriculture, and health. In the field of health care, we are placing special emphasis on medical hygiene and epidemic prevention, disaster reduction, and emergency and disaster recovery capacity, safeguarding national health and prioritizing the protection of our most vulnerable citizens. In terms of conservation, we will sustain our agricultural production resources and biodiversity, bolster monitoring and earlywarning mechanisms, strengthen natural disaster rescue and insurance systems, and integrate technologies designed to boost the resilience of the agricultural, forestry, fisheries, and animal husbandry industries. We are also operating and managing nature reserves, establishing long-term ecological monitoring systems, and strengthening the conservation and appropriate use of our nation’s species and
Taiwan’s FormoSat-3 satellite has amassed over 10 million items of meteorological data, which it has provided, free of charge, to experts and scholars around the world. (Photo Credit: directory eoportal.org) associated genetic material. All of this is aimed at safeguarding food safety and establishing sustainable agricultural practices that are well adapted to climate risks.
conventions, which urge all nations to work together to combat global climate change, and overlooks both the concept of climate justice emphasized in the Paris Agreement and the significance of calling on A Global Solution to all nations to take Climate Change climate action. This breach of the UN According to Patricia Charter weakens our Espinosa, Executive international framework Secretary of the and harms the entire UNFCCC, more than world. 10,000 extreme weather Taiwan is a incidents occurred responsible and sincere globally between 1997 friend to the and 2016, taking international community, countless lives and and is ready to destroying homes. As the contribute. We would be world continues to face pleased to share our climate change crises, experience in good this global issue requires environmental a global solution. That governance, disaster means that every person, prevention and earlyas a member of our warning systems, global community, must upgrading to energy join in and search for a efficient technologies, solution. and high-tech innovation It is unfair for Taiwan and its applications. We to be excluded from are striving to make the international world a better place, and organizations on the believe that Taiwan can basis of political be a valuable partner in prejudice. Our exclusion the global response to contradicts the spirit of climate change. related climate Huoyanshan tunnel in Miaoli, Taiwan, was constructed to lead debris flow across traffic road. (Photo Credit: geoace.com)
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27. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Canouan Government School stages Annual Sports
Houses in the March Past while Games Master Ian Rhynd (right) looks on. Story and Photos by DON DE RIGGS MORE AND MORE PRIMARY SCHOOLS here are opting to stage their annual Track and Field Meet during the first term of the school year. This change, from the second term, allows games teachers to have a ‘longer period’ during which to prepare their athletes for the Inter-Primary Athletics meet, normally
held during the second term. The change also lessens the competition from Secondary Schools for the use of playing fields. This was the case of the Government School who held their Meet on Friday 29th November. The playing field near the fisheries complex, normally used for soccer and cricket, had to be
specially marked for the event. Officials from the Sports Department assisted with marking the track the day before. Competition was held among three Houses: Sun Flower House — Yellow, Grasshopper House Green and ‘Rose House’ Red. Following the March Past where the Principal Ketty Rhynd took the salute, there was an
The sack race always provides good fun. Note the racers caught in mid-air. Right: The 11 and Over Girls on their marks for the 200m.
opening prayer, followed by the National Anthem, Athletes’ Pledge and Officials’ pledge. The games were duly declared invited to cover the event Victor Ludorum was open by retired teacher, Joshua Snagg (26 points) Donald De Riggs, who was for the local press. (De Riggs is also a freelance of Grasshopper House and journalist / photographer.) the Victrix Ludorum was The March past was Somiah De Roche (22 won by Grasshopper points) of Rose House. House. Games Master, Ian The track and field Rhynd commended the events began in earnest athletes for their around 11:00 AM, with a outstanding and refreshment break at 1:00 entertaining COUNTRY MEET PM. Competition spanned performances, and TOWN OUTA the age categories Under thanked the support staff, TROUBLE, last 7, Under 9, Under 11, and parents, games officials, Sunday at the 11 and Over. sponsors and the Minister Greiggs Central The track events of Education for their Playing Field, included the 50 metre assistance, successfully defended dash for the Under 7s and Due to the fact that the the Caesar’s Real 9s, and an 80 metre dash athletics meet ran late, Estate/ Hairoun for the Under and Over the official prize-giving Beer/FLOW/Nar 11s. There were also races ceremony was done the Fren Dem Greiggs over 150, 200 and 300 following week, during a Twenty/20 Softball metres as well as relays. school assembly. title, with a 12-run Field events win over Hard included a ball Hitters. throwing contest MVP Of the Outa Trouble Country Meet Town Outa Trouble. for the Under 9 Competition posted 107/ 6 from category, while their 17 overs, as the Ceon Phillips. for the fun races Most Valuable Player for his 494, Sion Hill Tallawahs match was reduced there were the batted first and made 148/ which included six half centuries from 20 overs because of a late sack, needle and and a century. He also copped the 8 from their 20 overs; Marlon start. thread, and Javid Harry led with 27 not out. Baptiste- 43 and Teroy Roberts- 35. Best Wicket-Keeper award for his 8 potato races. catches and 2 stumpings. Wayne Garraway took 4/26. Shawn Williams was the pick of At the end of His teammate Wayne Garraway Nar Fren Dem’s responded with Hard Hitters’ bowling, taking 2/7 the competition, took the Most wickets — 16. Cordice 89 all out from 18.6 overs; Shamorie and Kenson Dalzell had 2/34. Sun Flower In reply, Hard Hitters fell short, Baptiste 20. Shamic Roberts picked Oliver also of Nar Fren Dem, was House emerged adjudged to have taken the Best off 4/15, as Sion Hill Tallawahs won reaching 95/9 from their 17 overs. winners with 394, Catch in the Competition. by 59 runs. Junan Baptiste top scored with closely followed Receiving the Most Loyal Outa Trouble won the first prize 22, while Davian Barnum grabbed by Grasshopper Spectator award was Julian Joyles, of $ 2500; Hard Hitters$ 1500, and 4/17, bowling for Outa Trouble. House with 390 and Lennox James- the Best Barnum was named Player of the Sion Hill Tallawahs- $1000. points. Rose Umpire Award. Final. House followed Awards Rasfarco was named the Most Before the final, Sion Hill next with 351 Disciplined Team, and Israel Bruce Tallawahs took the third place over points. Nar Fren Dem’s Ceon Phillips Smashers Inc. were the March Past Winners row in the Under 9 Caesar’s Real Estate Nar Fren The Meet’s won the award as the competition’s winners. category. Dem.
Outa Trouble retains Softball Cricket Title
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28. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Central Leeward rules Secondary Schools Football
THE CENTRAL LEEWARD SECONDARY SCHOOL are the 2019 Junior and Senior Champions of Secondary Schools Football here. They earned the double accolade last Sunday at Victoria Park. In a repeat of last year finals in the Junior Division, Central Leeward outplayed the St Vincent Grammar School. Two goals each from Oryan Velox and Kylan Adams accounted for Central Leeward’s 4-1 rout of the Grammar School, whose goal came from the boot of Lesborn Robinson. It was harder work for Central Leeward in the Senior Division, as they were pushed to the very end by a spirited Georgetown Secondary School. The back and forth was broken in the 61st minute when Jahiem Charles turned one in for the defending champions. That goal, the only one of the encounter, handed Central Leeward their 3rd consecutive championship title in that division.
Third Places
Central Leeward Secondary Senior Football Team.
The Bethel High School secured the third spot in the Junior Division, with a 3-1 undoing of the Sandy Bay Secondary. Bethel’s goals came from Imani Miller, Omario Warren and Aaron Ferdinand. Mario Baptiste scored Sandy Bay’s consolation goal. And in the Senior Division third place playoff, O’ Brien Joseph was the lone scorer in the Troumaca Ontario’s one- nil win over West St George.
Awards Central Leeward took all the individual awards in the Secondary Schools Division. Trivis Fraser - Most Copping the Most Goals Award in the Junior Oryan Velox – Most Goals in the Senior Division was Oryan Velox with 13 goals, and Trivis Goals in the Junior Division. Fraser with 9 goals going likewise in the Senior Division. Category. Velox and Fraser were also adjudged the MVPs of the respective Finals, played on Sunday. Both Central Leeward’s Goal Keepers copped the Best Goal Keeper Awards - Garwin Davis SHAD THOMAS, a former in the Junior Division member of the Blue Chip and Jellando John the Basketball Academy, is Senior Division. making imprints in his new Basketball environment at Retainers of the Junior the Salem Baptist Christian Division- Central School in North Carolina, Leeward. USA. Last Saturday, Thomas was one of his team’s (known as the Vikings) standout performers, with 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals, as his school Shad Thomas outplayed Bishop McGuinness 83-48, to take the Thanksgiving Classic Tournament. His performance earned him selection to AllTournament Team. Thomas, a former student of the Union Island Secondary School, left St Vincent and the Grenadines earlier this year, on an Academic/Basketball scholarship to the Salem Baptist Christian School. Speaking of his new environment, Thomas said: “I am so excited to win my first tournament, with my new school and teammates… That put us 10-1 in our season, but I think we deserve to win every game we played, as we worked hard every day, The victorious Kingstown Preparatory School. and in every game that we play”. Thomas’s entry to the US Basketball system was made possible through the efforts of Kishon Championship was Shemron Baynes of the Buccament Government. He Bishop, founder of the Blue Chip Basketball was the leading goal scorer with 11 Academy. goals. Excited about Thomas’s progress thus far, The Kingstown Preparatory Bishop commented: “They love him here, and School’s Omarie hopefully he can be an inspiration for others back Delpesche was named Top Goal in St Vincent and the Grenadines.” the Best Goal Keeper. Scorer and Bishop is confident that, with the impression The CW Prescod Player of left by Thomas, other players from St Vincent and Primary School won the the Finalthe Grenadines will be sought after in the very title in 2018. Shemroy near future. Baynes.
Basketballer Thomas making imprints
KPS are Primary Football champs IT TOOK THEM five years to return to the top Primary School Football here, but the Kingstown Preparatory School (KPS) is reveling in glory. They were crowned 2019 champions when, last Sunday at Victoria park, they got the better of Buccament Government by 1-0. Jomoni Douglas was the lone scorer in the match. It was a crowning momemt for the Kingstown Preparartory School which had played unbeaten throughout the competition. In their last hurdle before their encounter with Buccament Government in the title decider, KPS beat the Greiggs Government School 3-0 in the semi- finals. Buccament Government earned their final berth with a penalty shootout win (5 — 4) over Owia Government. Owia Government took the third place, as Greiggs Government did not show up for the play off last Friday. Among the outstanding individuals in the 2019 Omarie Delpesche (left) - the Championship’s Best Goal Keeper.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 29.
Sports
Cumberland That’s where the action has been overflowing for the past three months as regards the Jules Anthony Vinlec North Leeward T/20 championship. Ten teams lined up at the start and it has boiled into the ultimate showdown. That features defending champion Police and Ruddy’s Electrical. Police earned their berth at the expense of Rose Bank Big League. The Lawmen reached 174 for 5 in 20 overs, fortified by Benniton Stapleton 62 off 38 balls, supported by Rickford Walker 35 and Deon Bynoe 20. Big League were 74 for 2, but folded for 79 in 13.3 overs. Ozico Williams 26 gave Big League the hope until Kemron Strough 4 for 12, ensured his team was in the final. Ruddy’s Electrical shocked Rose Hall Future Legends. Future Legends might have been lulled into a false sense of security with 226 for 2 in 20 overs. That was built on an unbroken 190 run third wicket stand between Deon Browne and Miles Bascombe. Browne blazed 131 from 61 balls, including 13 sixes, and eight fours. He joined Bascombe at 36, and raced to his second century in as many weeks. He must be the most disheartened centurion there ever was. Bascombe dropped anchor with Browne on the rampage, or so it seemed. The Ruddy’s response was real. The mission was clear. Chrisroy John fell for 29 after an opening 62 run stand with Hyron Shallow. Daron Greaves joined Shallow and kept the momentum with a 78 run partnership. When Shallow went for 65, the score was 140. Donwell Hector joined Greaves and that pair simply turned up the voltage with 77 between them. Greaves fell for 55 off 36 balls to give Future Legends a glimmer of hope. But Hector was not going to surrender, and even though Seon Sween was run out in the final over, Roger Gibson found the boundary in his first delivery to seal the victory with Hector 54 not out. It was a dramatic final over with seven needed. It was reduced to four with five balls remaining, compliments two wides and a two. Sween was run out going for a second run which brought in Gibson. The final is at Cumberland Playing Field Sunday December 8. That will follow the grand finale from a series which featured Ball Butners, United Survivors and North Leeward Women in a clash. Groundsmen at Cumberland should be pleased with the conditions they provided. The pitch is true and lively for a good seam bowler, and there is enough space for spinners to ply their craft. If the tension raises at Cumberland, that will take beyond seismic proportions. In any event, there are lots at stake. This will not be a drawn out exercise. It will be punches from over one. Cumberland presents the most idyllic setting the Caribbean can provide for a sunset. The cricket fits into that scenery. There is everything to treasure at this final. For with the present weather pattern, conditions are pleasant. This is a tribute to those who have gone before, whose groundwork has provided a platform for continued sporting and social development in the communities.
North East takes Masters Cricket title NORTH EAST are the new champions of T20 Masters Cricket in SVG. They earned the title when they defeated defending champions Mustique Company Masters by 4 wickets, in the finals played at the Sion Hill playing field last Sunday. Mustique Company took first strike and posted 140 for 7 off 20 overs, Captain Oneil Thomas leading with 48 and supported by Nicholas Baptiste 27. Veteran leg spinner Olanzo Jackson picked up 4 for 17 and Winsbert Springer 2 for 31. North East Masters replied with 141 for 6 off 19.1 overs, Deighton Butler top scoring with 57 not out and Dyke Cato getting 25. Caswell Dorsette took 2 for 30 and Oneil Thomas 2 for 24. Earlier, North East disposed of Joseph Da Silva Memorial Funeral Home North Leeward Masters by 3 wickets to earn their berth in the finals. Scores: North Leeward Masters 129 for 4 off 20 overs, North East 130 for 7 off 19.3 overs. In the prize-giving ceremony that followed the final, winners North East collected a cheque in an amount of $1,200.00 and a quantity of LOG Enterprises products. Runners-up Mustique Company earned $800.00 and a quantity of LOG Enterprises products. Oneil Thomas, captain of Mustique Masters was
North East - new SVG T20 the runaway MVP of the Masters champions. Competition with a total of 325 - the highest in the Competition - and 13 wickets, just one less than leading wickettaker Orlanzo Jackson of North East. Deighton Butler was adjudged Player of the Finals for his 57 not out. Awards were also made to the Orlanzo MVPs of each of the competing Jackson took teams, as follows: Stubbs the most Kessinger Mclean; North East Orlanzo Jackson; AR& G Trucking wickets, 14. P’Tani - Alfred McKenzie; Belfongo - Junior Bacchus; Bequia - Daniel Williams; Glamorgan Dexter Small; La Croix - Sobers Thomas; North Leeward - Alfie Gould; Pastures Anthony Charles; North Windward Gareth Wilson; Police - Gosnel Cupid; Sion Hill - Conard Jack; Mustique Company - Oneil Mustique Thomas; Park Hill Company – losing Recaldo Thomas. finalist and last year’s champions. I.B.A.ALLEN
RuddyÊs – Police in finals clash Ruddy’s Electrical and RSVG Police will contest the finals of the Jules Anthony Vinlec North Leeward Super Finals at the Cumberland playing field this Sunday. Ruddy’s Electrical, two-times champions, beat Robertson Surveying Rose Hall Future Legends in their semifinals by 4 wickets, last weekend. The RSVG Police
Force did away with Rose Bank Big League by 95 runs to earn their spot in the finals. Scores in the Ruddy Electrical — Future Legends match: Future Legends Ruddy Electrical 226 for 2 off 20 overs - Dean Brown 131 (his second century in the competition), Miles Bascombe 63 not out; Ruddy Electrical 229 for 4 off 19.4 overs - Hyron
Shallow 64, Darren Greaves 55 and Donwell Hector 54 not out. Scores in the other semifinal: Police 174 for 5 off 20 overs - Beninton 62, Rickford Walker 35. Shangi John 2 for 14 off 4 overs; Big League 79 off 13.3 overs - Ozico Williams 26, Kemron Strough 4 for 14 off 4 overs.
Dean Browne hit his second century but in a losing cause.
I.B.A.ALLEN
Hyron Shallow made a blistering 65 to help Ruddy’s Electrical to victory.
Another Lewis heads Referees Association ELRON LEWIS has replaced his namesake David Lewis as President of the SVG Referees Association (SVGRA). He was elected to the top position when the SVGRA held its Congress last Monday, at the SVGFF Headquarters. David Lewis did not stand for reelection. Others elected to serve on the Executive for the 2020 — 2022 period were: Shesford John - 1st Vice President; Maxian Richardson - Secretary; Mahalia Thomas - Treasurer; John Hinds — PRO; Debbie Jordan, Michael Williams and Elron Poyer Committee Members. Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN since his election, Lewis has committed to working
to outfit all match officials so they can be clearly and easily identified. He is also bent on working towards increasing the number of local referees on the FIFA list. There are currently three Vincentians on that list. Lewis, readers will recall, took the award for the Most Promising Referee for the 2018/19 local football season. He contended that it was important for his Association and Executive to work with all stakeholders. “We will also be looking to work closely with the new executive of the SVGFF to encourage the staging of more workshops for our referees and other officials”, Lewis said. Newly elected President of the
Elron Lewis, new President of the SVG Referees Association. SVGFF Carl Dickson addressed the Congress. Among his other urgings, he encouraged the new executive to lean on the seasoned and senior officials for support and guidance. SVGFF Technical Director, Keith Ollivierre also addressed the Congress. I.B.A.ALLEN
30. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 06, 2019. 31.
Classifieds
Fostering a personality cult
pictures of the PM presenting awards. In last week’s edition, In addition, the paper there were 3 photographs flashed the PM on its Front-Page at Charles’ of the Prime Minister, which is reasonable in the funeral, as well as on the Back-Page in the company circumstances. He was of Kenny Anthony, with taken in the same frame as Barbados’ Owen Arthur the double effect of his reading a copy of St Lucia in attendance at the “Voice” newspaper that funeral of Dominica’s carried Dr. Gonsalves’ Prime Minister, Pierre photo on their Front-Page. Charles; a photo of Dr Finally, Gonsalves Gonsalves also appeared posed for a picture of him at his opening of the feeding “Baby Dorsette” Serious Offences Court and, on the back-page, he with sweet biscuit, as a was seen featuring at the demonstration of the care he has for the hungry and handing over of “Baby defenceless. Dorsettte’s house” fair As between Dr. enough. Gonsalves and Eustace, “The News” on the last week, the pictures other hand, came up with showed twenty-five to nill. 5 photographs. Two at Enough perhaps to move “Serious Offences”, two the media to take a good, including a Back-Page hard look at itself with a presentation at funeral of view of redressing the Pierre Charles, and one imbalance. signing the book of Intended or not, media condolence. Less than houses run a grave danger half-a-dozen all told: not of sponsoring a personality bad. cult by over-exposing their My own host found political favourites, which itself in the invidious over time etch their image position of having been on the collective paid to carry an NCB hype subconscious of the that highlighted eleven nation. Continued from Page 8.
Always, we must guard against creating our own slave master.” Last week’s “Just Another Look” by Keith Joseph fully demonstrated that a subconscious partnership between him and myself still flourishes;
MAXWELL RICHARDS
he now points out the cult of personality as being the key which Dr. Gonsalves uses to abuse and terrify this land, as repeatedly mentioned in “This Week”. It is my personal belief that the days of scourge are very much numbered.
CAMILLE ONICA GARRICK
MR. MICHAEL FRANCISJEFFREY
Fountain Seventh Day Adventist Church Sunday, December 1st, 2019 Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Belair Cemetery
Kingstown Methodist Church Wednesday, 4th December, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m.
Questelles S.D.A Church Sunday, December 8th, 2019 Service: 2:00 p.m.
SIMENA ANGELLA GOULD St. Patrick Anglican Church, Barrouallie Monday, December 2nd, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m.
ELMA VENITA CHANDLER Full in the Spirit Pentecostal Church, Ottley Hall Sunday, December 1st, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
MRS. ELAINE E. OLLIVIERRE 6W 3DXO¶V Anglican Church, Calliaqua Saturday, November 30th, 2019 Viewing: 2:00 p.m. Service: 3:00 p.m.
F O R S A L E
FRIDAY,
DECEMBER 06, 2019
VOLUME 113, No.49
www.thevincentian.com
ACTION COMING AT SALT WHISTLE BAY by DAYLE DA SILVA GOVERNMENT is devising an action plan for Salt Whistle Bay in Mayreau. So said Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Camillo Gonsalves as he addressed the
MAN CHARGED WITH HERITAGE SQUARE SHOOTING by HAYDN HUGGINS
Tyson Spencer has earned himself another round before the courts here. VINCENTIAN understands that he is confined to the Intensive Care Unit. She asked the Court to deny bail at this stage, pending a comprehensive medical report. The Chief Magistrate allowed the application, and remanded Spencer until next Tuesday.
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The situation of erosion at Salt Whistle Bay is such that it can cause a split in the island, according to MP Terrence Ollivierre.
issue (erosion) affecting Salt Whistle Bay, in a response to a question put by Opposition Parliamentary Representative for the Southern Grenadines, Terrence Ollivierre, during a sitting of Parliament last week Tuesday. Gonsalves said that the plan would be to protect
In his latest run-in with the law, Spencer was charged TYSON SPENCER, it appears, with one (1) count of considers Heritage Square to be Attempted Murder and two his playground. (2) counts of Wounding with On Friday 29th November, the Intent. 30-year-old Green Hill man was When he was brought arrested and charged in before the Serious Offences connection with a shooting Court last Monday, he was incident at Heritage Square, not required to plea to the which occurred a week before, charges of attempting to murder Friday 22nd November. Kurtland Jackson of Campden Spencer is known to the Courts Park, wounding Dwayne Peters of and the Police here, he having Kingstown with intent, and been charged with the murder of wounding Deron Quashie of Belair resident Clevedon ‘Junior’ Choppins with intent. Chewitt, 26 at the time, in 2011. In objecting to bail, Prosecutor Chewitt died on June 25th, 2011 Curlene Samuel told the Court after receiving a stab wound to that Jack was still warded at the the left side of his neck at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in Heritage Square. critical condition. THE
A.I. REAL ESTATE
the isthmus from further erosion and avoid adaptation solutions that detract from the idyllic beauty of the beach. He also pointed to action that would use natural materials. Whatever, the intention was to devise a solution that was quickly implementable, Gonsalves said. According to the Minister, there were two options being explored: the construction of a barrier to be built along the isthmus, or building on top of the existing reef. As it was, the water was rushing over the reef, the result of rising sea levels. The solution being preferred, therefore, but which was still subject to further study, was to build on top of the existing reef, using material that was readily available, e.g. conch shells. “They are readily available and relatively cheap, so we’re looking to use the conch shells to build up the reef.. that is more attractive than using concrete tetra pods, and is more attractive than placing a series of boulders along what is a beautiful beach,” the Minister of Finance explained. The Minister promised that resources would be made available during the next budget cycle in 2020, for a study to be done. Once the technical information was deduced, there would be a clearer idea as far as what could be done, what would be provided, and the cost of the undertaking. According to Gonsalves, Salt Whistle Bay was an ecological treasure. “It offers important protection to sailors travelling through the Southern Caribbean,” he said. Salt Whistle Bay, though, was in jeopardy, with the isthmus rapidly shrinking and separating the bay from the Caribbean Sea. A rise in the sea level had caused an alarming increase in coastal erosion, Gonsalves disclosed, and this threatens the existence of the beach which in turn affects the livelihood of the people of Mayreau and the island as a whole.
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