THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 07-08-20

FRIDAY, AUGUST

07, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.32

Paradigm shift for police Page 4

www.thevincentian.com

LOTTO players Ap. Page 5

interCaribbean license woes Page 12

EC$1.50

Jerry George found dead Page 13

Prison Officer suspended Page 24

POLICE SHOOTING CAUSES UPROAR concern about the shooting death of one of their own, at the hands of the Royal SVG Police Force.

Juan AbbottBalcombe, 29, was reportedly shot in the early hours of Saturday morning, August 1.

A release, dated August 1, 2020, from the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the Royal SVG Police Force, described the incident as follows: “On Saturday, August 1, 2020, between 2:00 am and 3:00 am, a group of Police Officers were returning from a function when they saw the deceased, Juan Juan Abbott-Balcombe died in an Abbott who is known to alleged shootout with police. the Police, walking along the Langley Park RESIDENTS OF GEORGETOWN, Public Road. He had what particularly those of the appeared to be a gun in his community of Langley Park, have taken to social media and right hand. The Police alighted even to the street to voice their the vehicle, identified

themselves to the deceased and shouted, ‘Stop and drop your weapon’. The deceased did not obey the Police command, but instead — turned around and open fire at the Police.

The Police returned fire and

Relatives, friends and residents at large took to the street in a candlelight demonstration and vigil. the deceased began to run.

The Police gave chase after the deceased. Upon reaching in front of his place of abode, the deceased turned around and again opened fire at the

Police. The Police returned fire and shot the deceased in his right thigh.

Continued on Page 3.

SISTER MOURNS SIBLING’S SENSELESS MURDER THE APPARENT GUN RELATED killing of 37-year-old Kimron ‘Warlord’ Hannaway has left family and friends reeling from the news of his untimely demise.

Hannaway died last Sunday, August 2, in a yard in Block 2000, where he sustained what appeared to be a fatal head wound. The incident is said to have occurred at about 8:45am.

A police bulletin, issued in the wake of the altercation, announced that an unnamed “man is in police custody assisting with the investigations of a shooting incident which claimed the life of” the Block 2000 resident.

The same police release also promised that, “a postmortem

examination will be carried out on the deceased to ascertain the cause of death.”

It is not exactly clear what preceded the gunplay but reports are that “he went to cut a yard where he got shot.”

Hannaway’s body was discovered shortly after what sounded “like somebody beating a piece of galvanize,” a neighbour disclosed. A small cutlass (machete) was clutched in his inert left hand.

Natisha ‘Kesha’ Hannaway, one of Warlord’s sisters, described him, the 4th of 6 siblings, as “… a loving, and fun person to be around. Very quiet… was never one to be in any confusion.

He was loved by his family and most of all his community. He was someone

you can call and ask for help, he will not fuss.”

Although Kesha migrated to England, she maintains that the relationship between brother and sister was a close one. “We grew up in the same household. We spoke all the time but his phone broke so his friend would always call me to talk to him.

“His death is a complete shock to me. I just feel like dying too. No more brother to hug, to joke with, to tell him how much I love him. I just want justice ... whoever the person is who killed my brother, I’m leaving justice to take its course.”

Continued on Page 3.

Kimron Hannaway and sister Kesha in happier times.

2. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 3.

News 3 Working to restore votersÊ confidence

The SOE is promising that concerns arising from the last general election will be addressed.

VOTERS CAN EXPECT TO election, generally SEE some ‘new’ measures expected before yearend. implemented when they go This is in an attempt to the polls in a general to correct some of the

complaints of irregularities following the 2015 General Elections “We found that based on the issues raised in the last elections, we want to put things in place,” Dora James, Supervisor of Elections (SOE), said at a stakeholders meeting on July 21.

She said that she availed herself to the petition hearings in 2019 so that she would be informed on what were the issues.

Following the December 9, 2015 General Elections, petitions were filed by the opposition New Democratic Party’s candidates in the North

Windward and Central Leeward constituencies.

The petitions cited a number of irregularities in the constituencies, on election day.

The petition hearings got underway in February 2019.

Justice Stanley John dismissed the petitions despite compelling evidence which came out during cross examinations of a number of persons who worked at various polling stations.

According to James, there was some discussion on the introduction of a poll book.

It was explained that the purpose of this would be to record the names of

Police shooting causes uproar dead on a piece of land not far and less than 400 yards from his residence.

The deceased then ran All in all, close family, to the back of his house, other relatives, friends scaled two walls and and residents of Langley escaped from the Police. Park are insisting, the A party of Police Officers police release from the Georgetown notwithstanding, that Police Station later the circumstances joined in on the search surrounding Abbottfor the deceased. His Balcombe’s death remain body was subsequently “cloudy”, as one person found in some bushes said; and that approximately four information is not hundred (400) yards forthcoming from the from his house.” police.

However, the details To show their support as contained in the for the deceased young Police release did not go man and in a show of down well with Abbottsupport for the call for a Balcombe’s relatives and thorough and impartial friends, and this investigation into the dissatisfaction incident that led to his overflowed into the death, relatives and wider community. residents staged a At least one resident candlelight of Langley Park, not a demonstration and vigil usual source of this that culminated with the publication, reported planting of candles, at that family members the spot where Abbottwere not allowed “to see’ Balcombe lay dead. the dead man’s body, According to the which the person said, referenced release from remained where he died the police, a coroner’s for “a long, long time.” inquest is expected to be Contrary to what the conducted to get to the Police said in their ‘root’ of the release, another circumstances that resident told this ended in the fatal publication that Abbott- shooting.

Balcombe’s body lay A date for AbbottContinued from Front Page.

persons who come in to vote.

Officials from the Office of the Supervisor of Elections further explained that the concept of a poll book was not new, and is used to record side notes of events that occurred during election day.

As of the next election, it will contain the names of those who voted toward verifying that the number of ballots (returned) matches the number of persons who actually cast votes.

Opposition Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste recommended that the SOE look at the ballot boxes as well, saying that the slot on the top of the ballot boxes used in the last general elections were larger than what was prescribed, and there were still some concerns about the seals used.

James addressed one other concern — that of the adjudication of votes,

or the process of resolving centrally processed paper ballots that have been flagged for various reasons.

According to the SOE, this issue will be addressed during training of electoral officers, to which the political parties will be invited.

It was important to get this right, James contended, in order that other polling station staff are trained properly and there is a unified platform.

“We have to be honest; we have to be fair and impartial, so when persons share and say that this went on, we have to look at it,” James said.

She noted that some of the complaints may have no merit, but nevertheless it will be checked out and her office will address whatever concerns have been raised. (DD)

Sister mourns sibling’s senseless murder Continued from Front Page.

Candles were placed on the spot where Juan Abbott-Balcombe lay dead.

Balcombe’s funeral service and burial was not confirmed up to Thursday, but a contact in Georgetown said that

a large turnout is expected, given the preparatory activities that are taking place.

(SR)

Hannaway was a part time employee at the local SINGER franchise where he helped to man the delivery trucks for the better part of 5 years. Ian Viera, one of the company’s directors, told this reporter, “He was a good and willing worker and always pleasant. We never knew him to be in any conflict with anyone.”

To date no charges have been filed so police inquiries into this latest fatal shooting are expected to continue apace.

The Royal SVG Police Force is encouraging “person(s) with information that can assist with the investigation of this homicide … to contact the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of Crime at 1-784-456-1339; the Major Crime Unit at 1-784-457-1211 or any police officer or police station you are comfortable with.”

Hannaway’s death brings the current local murder toll to 18. jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Persons can give police any name?

Delpleche asked the defendant for his name, he said he used both names, but A TIMELY intervention by attorney Grant gave the police the name Victory Connell may have saved his client from Harry. being charged with giving the police a When the Prosecutor asked him if wrong name. he had an Identification Card (ID) he The defendant, who was before the replied in the affirmative, but said it Court charged with possession of a 12 was in the possession of a family gauge firearm at Richmond, had given member. the police the name Victor Harry, and When Delpleche asked him what therefore that was the name before the name was on the ID, the man said, Serious Offences Court on Wednesday Changlee Delpleche. He also admitted when the charge was read to him. that Changlee Delpleche was the name However, Connell disclosed that on his passport. based on his instructions, the The Prosecutor then asked why he defendant also carries the name gave the police the name Victory Changlee Delpleche.

Harry, and not Changlee Delpleche, When Senior Prosecutor Adolphus and he admitted that he was scared, Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

because he had been arrested before.

Connell viewed the situation as serious, saying that his (Connell) intervention could result in a paradigm shift in the police approach to the way they take names from persons, while carrying out investigations.

Connell said that the police would now know that they have to check the person’s ID or the records to ensure that they have the correct name, as someone can give them any name.

But the Senior Prosecutor insisted, “He (defendant) is dishonest.

Paradigm shift or no paradigm shift, he is dishonest. You can’t give a man credit for being dishonest.”

The defendant, who had

Suspense lingers in bodily harm matter FORTY-one-year-old mason Micky Pompey was remanded on Monday on a grievous bodily harm charge, following strong objections to bail by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche.

Pompey is charged with Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche was unrelenting in his objection to bail.

unlawfully and maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to Silma Bacchus of Richland Park. The offence, reportedly committed on Emancipation Day, August 1, is said to have left the woman in a critical condition.

Pompey was not required to plea to the indictable charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court, on Wednesday.

In objecting to bail, the Senior Prosecutor told the Court that the virtual complainant was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital suffering from a head injury she sustained, after allegedly being slammed onto the pitch (road).

He added that the woman has not spoken since, and she continued to be monitored closely by medical personnel.

Delpleche asked that Pompey be remanded at this juncture, pending a prognosis.

Pompey’s attorney Sharmine Walters, in an application for bail, argued that her client was not a flight risk, and had cooperated with the police.

But the Chief Magistrate told the lawyer that the Court was not going to consider bail at this juncture.

She then remanded the accused until August 12 when the issue of bail will be reviewed.

Attorney Grant Connell may just have encouraged a ‘paradigm shift’ in how the police go about taking names during their investigations. pleaded not guilty to the charge, was granted $10,000 bail with one surety, with reporting conditions, and ordered to surrender his travel documents.

The matter has been adjourned to September 3.

The charge against the defendant reportedly stemmed from a recent action by the local Coast Guard.

Two assistant DPPs appointed THE POST of Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has been filled, after a four-year period of vacancy.

In fact, two such post were filled when Karim Nelson and Tameka DaSilva-McKenzie were elevated from the post of Crown Counsel 2. Their appointments took retroactive effect from May 1, 2020.

DPP Sejilla McDowall updated the Court on a number of recent elevations at the DPP’s Office, as she delivered remarks at the closing ceremony of the High Court Criminal Assizes.

Among them being Rene Simmonds, who has been elevated from Crown Counsel 1 to Crown Counsel 2, and Maria Jackson-Richards, recently admitted to the local Bar, who has been appointed Crown Counsel.

The post of Assistant DPP had become vacant from August 2016 when then Assistant DPP Colin John gave up that position and returned to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) to take up the position of Deputy Commissioner of Police from which he has since been elevated to Commissioner of Police, a position he currently occupies.

The post of Assistant DPP remained vacant when Sejilla McDowall was appointed DPP earlier this year, making her the first female to occupy that position.

The post of DPP became vacant following the departure of then DPP Colin Williams about two years ago, to take up duties as High Court Judge in Belize.

McDowall had acted in that capacity prior to being appointed DPP.

V Vincentian man develops Lotto-related Application

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 5.

News

A VINCENTIAN man has developed an artificial intelligence application, Play4, 3D, which he says can predict winning 3D, Play4 and Lotto numbers.

Steve Tyrell, a Programmer from Kingstown Park, said that he has been working on the application software for over three and a half years, and has employed the services of overseasbased programmers over the period only for sorting specific coding.

Two versions of the Application In order for the software to be effective, the programme must have a past history of 3D, Play4 and Lotto numbers called.

“It then uses machine learning capabilities, artificial intelligence to randomize and target the numbers that aren’t playing often.

“My understanding how the lotto system works tells me it is basically under control. My reason is that you will not see numbers that are popular being called because a lot of people would play them and trust me, you will see 6 months, 8 months a whole year …… and those numbers don’t drop, why? Because I believe those numbers have a big pay out so they don’t allow those numbers to drop.

Their objective is to target the numbers that have less payout,” said Tyrell.

There is a free version and a paid version of the Play43D application.

The free application is available on Google Play Store for android devices.

the application will sit well with the National Lotteries Authority (NLA), the body which operates the games for which the Application provides some “help”, the Kingstown Park man said that he did not see any reason why his application should be an issue for the NLA. “I am not rigging or hacking What the Application does their system. I am in no way hacking them,” he responded, According to the programmer, users adding, “Instead, the application would have to put in their numbers of should be welcomed by NLA since choice in the boxes provided. The it will help them generate more system will then generate its own revenue because more persons will have the desire to play. numbers.

“More persons would be “By doing so on an ongoing basis, you basically are training it to be more playing, more persons would be winning, but Lotto will not lose accurate in predicting the numbers. because of the way their system With the paid version, you don’t have to go through much training, but with is designed.” (KH) the free version you got to train it on an ongoing basis. You can generate up Steve Tyrell said his app is the result of three long years of to 20 to 50 numbers if you want and work and collaboration. watch and see what the outcome will be,” said Tyrell, adding that the application generates numbers for the 3D, Play4 and Lotto draws.

He said that the paid version of the application can generate numbers vertically and horizontally. This, Tyrell said, will especially help those people who use books to compute and/or try to predict numbers for upcoming draws.

The paid version cost $150.00 and can be accessed by contracting Tyrell at cell number: 1 784 431 8112.

“Your chances when using the paid version is 90 percent. So you get a 90 percent artificial intelligence learning capability operation. For the free version you get a 70 percent chance,” Tyrell explained.

The Application and the NLA On the question of whether or not

Women artists in the spotlight THE SECOND Annual Women’s Art Show will take place at the Youlou Art Centre (YAC) starting August 15 through November.

The show titled “Vincy Women Artists Now 2020” will have an opening reception from 5 to 8 pm at the Youlou Art Centre, on Saturday, August 15th. The reception is open to the public.

This year ten established women artists will be taking part in the show. They are: Lila Roo, Eniye Kagbala, Amanda Frederick, Sharleen Branch, Zen Punnett, Leeandra Thompson, Daviana Basilio, Joy Celestine, Maureen Fauren, and Kendra McNichols.

The show will feature an array of

artwork in film, writing, photography and painting.

The Youlou Art Centre is focused on encouraging and nurturing the work of local women artists. It is a known fact, women artists lack opportunity in showcasing their work; that they have many issues to surmount; and they are constantly faced with obligations, which tend to derail them from achieving artistic success.

Youlou Arts is focused on actively seeking ways of empowering and championing the work of women artists.

The public is urged to come out and support the women.

(Submitted by the YAC)

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6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Buccament here we come, again JUST ONE OF THOSE WEEKS when the basket is packed with so many sumptuous ‘topics’, that it’s difficult deciding on one to give undivided attention.

So if this wanders off into a number of issues, don’t be surprised.

Contrary to what those in authority would want us to believe, the land issue at Buccament seems far from settled.

That is to say, it has not got to the point of signatures being inked on a full agreement of sale, and neither has there been pellucid declaration of what land was acquired and if that process is complete.

As far as we are aware, at least one land owner, ‘Ras Shaka’, is holding out for what he perceives to be fair gain for that portion of Jah’s earth, which had been bestowed upon him.

One of the questions that, at this juncture, continues to plague the much heralded ‘agreement’ between Sandals Resorts International and the Government of SVG, is how long can the government keep the behemoth Sandals in abeyance, given the promise to ‘bequeath’ 40 acres and more of prime land for their development?

In fact, it would be edifying to learn what has actually passed from one hand to the other, in this acquisition, as termed by the Government.

Is there in this ‘agreement’, to which the people in the broadest sense of the word have not been privy, a clause that allows for a withdrawal of one party to this agreement should the other appear to be reneging or reneges on its responsibilities?

And by the way, no one should speak to us about checking out CIPO to see the details of this ’agreement’; we have had that thrown at us as an excuse for our tardiness, too often in the past.

Ordinary people, the average voter don’t have the time to expend on such ‘luxuries’; they will depend on their leaders and aspiring leaders to reveal and

interpret the contents and moreso, the ramifications therein, especially in this election year.

Have any of those ‘leaders’ delivered?

No right-thinking citizen would wish failure or unnecessary encumbrances upon this project.

But given the recent history of pulling and dragging among the rich and famous foreign investors in Canouan; given the sudden emergence of friction between foreign property owners and native-born residents in Bequia; given the unforgettable and unforgiveable orchestrated escape of the David Ames, developer extraordinaire and principal ‘undoer’ of the Buccamant Bay Resort which Sandals now promises to resuscitate, … how can we not be overly careful, how can we not be searching in out questions about this ‘new agreement?

Any development undertaken by foreign interest has to have bearing on our patrimony which, if we are not aware, we are obligated to protect; not to willy nilly dispense with in the name of development to every ‘tout un chacun’ who comes knocking; not to misuse in pursuance of that much fancied concept we refer to as ‘economic growth’, that looks like it’s on another downward spiral, albeit not attributed entirely to the misgivings of government, and even if it was on an upward trend does not speak in plausible and real terms to people’s advancement.

One would be tempted to say that there is no need for due diligence when it involves the likes of Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, tourism mogul and newspaper magnet.

However, accepting the man for what we know of him and for what he is worth, does not preclude an ongoing scrutiny of how this development unfolds; how it relates to the local population in general, and who benefits in the long run and who benefits ‘on the side’.

Eyes are on you, Butch.

Appointing a DPP in St. Vincent and the Grenadines SUPERFICIALLY, the appointment and functions of a DPP in the sub-region look deceptively simply indeed. Below the surface, however, the situation surrounding the DPP could be fraught with many difficulties that relate to the practice of political mischief and a threat to human freedom.

For the DPP, though occupying a middle position in the judicial system, is clothed with awesome responsibility that is independently discharged.

Not only is the DPP empowered to institute and undertake criminal proceedings but he can also take over and continue proceedings instituted by some other authorized person and, most importantly, he could “discontinue at any stage before judgement is delivered any such criminal proceedings instituted or undertaken by himself or any other person or authority”.

Those powers are expressly “vested in him (the DPP) to the exclusion of any other person or authority”. Furthermore, in the exercise of these powers “the Director of Public Prosecutions shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or body”.

The powers as set out in the constitution are pellucid and come very near within the ambit of its own context to make the DPP, as it were, a law unto himself.

It follows, therefore, that much care and diligence are to be applied to the process of the appointment of a DPP. Knowledge of a competence in the law will feature prominently but, it is submitted, in these small, two-by-four States riven by party political tribalism, the greatest store would normally be set by the political integrity and independence of the prospective holder of the post.

In considering someone for appointment as DPP, it would be invidious and unhelpful to lay down more than broad and flexible guidelines which should be followed with some consideration of the general political context of the times.

Since the start of 2003 there have been reported clashes between the Executive and the judicial components of our constitutional system in the persons of Sir Vincent Beache Minister of National Security and Mr. Roger Gaspard, then

DPP. Details would be spared, but the general drift of the exchanges is significant. The DPP had to remind the Minister that there was only one DPP in the State when the Minister tried to get his way on a matter that fell clearly within the exclusive zone of the DPP, who held his ground and stoutly defended his turf.

The DPP was then threatened with dismissal, which could not happen under the laws, which are tailored to accord him the requisite protection. Crest fallen and frustrated the Minister could only promise to seek constitutional amendments that would make the DPP ‘dismissable’ by Cabinet, in other words, making the Executive superior to the Judiciary in the latter’s own sphere of influence and thus violating and disturbing hallowed traditions that are the very foundation of our democratic system of Government.

The problem was solved — or rather shelved, by the timely completion of Mr. Gaspard’s contractual arrangement, and his replacement, in an acting capacity, by Mr. Colin Williams in an appointment that has raised certain issues and has been questioned by the Bar Association.

On 25th September 2003, the Bar Association issued a public release that was emphatic in its restraint: “The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Bar Association expresses its profound dismay and concern with respect to the recent appointment of our colleague Mr. Colin Williams to act as Director of Public Prosecution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines”.

“The Bar Association at no time is imputing anything adverse against the integrity of Mr. Colin Williams, but the Bar is steadfast in its conviction that in the eyes of the public the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would be viewed as having been compromised in its independence by this appointment”.

“At all times public confidence in the Administration of Criminal Justice must not be undermined”.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 7.

Letters

What a sad squandering of integrity IF AN INDIVIDUAL who has evidently been equipped with what is universally recognized as a desirable level of academic development/exposure, and if he had harshly criticized the incumbent in the office which he himself had set his heart on occupying, but on attaining his desire, he follows aggressively the very path that he had castigated his predecessor

for, and even is now guilty of exacerbating the related agonies of those approaches, would it not be reasonable to recognize him, identify him as a fraud, “a bare-faced fraud”?

Given the point of development at which we are now, with the awareness of the issues which had burdened our forebears and the evidence nakedly

Running our last mile home RUNNING our last mile home is a harsh reality which many have failed to realize. Life is seen as a race not to be competed but to be completed.

If you didn’t believe it before, listening to the death announcements on radio and TV and following similar news on social media, would tell us that people die every day in this country of ours. Many of them would have lived their lives with no regard that they might be running their last mile home.

Gone are the days when prayer, Sunday School and church were a must. Family altar in Christian homes is no longer practised. The importance of Christ seems not to be a reality anymore.

As we become aware of the fact that we are running our last mile home, it is for us to be prepared. We never know when we would draw our last breath, i.e. when we would run our last mile. The bible reminds us in Hebrews 9:27 “it is appointed unto men once to die.” Therefore, there is a time set for us to die which we do not know.

We could be running our last mile home right now.

Unfortunately, too many of us are not prepared for our departure; far too many of us spend our time spewing hatred, practising malice, pulling down each other, being involved in many ungodly things , and not ensuring that it is well with our souls.

And we have allowed our politics to ‘rule us’, so much so that we brand someone as a Christian or not a Christian depending on the party they support. We have allowed party politics to divide us and create enmity even though we might just be running our last mile home.

Let us all confess our sins, repent and turn to Jesus. Let us be conscious that every day we live could be our last. Let us seek to live lovingly with each other, regardless of the party colours, race, or religious and social affiliation. Let Christ become the head of our homes to lead us away from crime.

Let us be prepared for our last mile home. May God bless us all.

Kennard King

exposed in recent months, that there is much work to be done in redressing the injustices to the people of African orientation; then those individuals among us who are appropriately historically informed and who up to 2001, seemed prepared to defend the

interests of the people, should make their voices heard.

They ought to realize, that by their seeming acquiescence in the face of raw injustice by those who had undertaken to serve the people, they will be regarded as

traitors when their contributions in the preelection season of 2001 are called to mind.

That would indeed be a sad squandering of integrity by Africanoriented brothers!

LeRoy Providence

Giving songs to politicians MR. EDITOR, I see where there is an interesting developing scenario in Trinidad and Tobago which we ought to pay attention to right here in Vincy.

Two soca/reggae artistes in that country have sent ‘pre-action protocol letters’ to opposition candidates in the build-up to the August 10 general election there.

The action, as I understand it, is for the two candidates concerned to “funds up” large sums of money for using the

songs of the two artistes in their respective campaigns. According to the artistes, they never gave permission for their song to be used by the opposition party or any of their candidates.

If this is the case, and I have no reason to doubt it, then it is a straight case of infringement of the copyright supposedly owned by the artiste; a case of ‘thiefing’ the artistes intellectual property.

The message here is to our artistes’ not to allow their work to be used by any political party. Even

if they give permission,that is the end of the song, so I hope they will look for a good purse when they give away their songs.

I remember how Becket’s ‘Horn fuh dem’ was used by the NDP back in 1984. In fact, it was used successfully by Mr. John Horne in my constituency.

If I were a soca or a reggae artiste, I will not allow any politician or political party to use my work. Regardless of how much they might pay me, I know if I did that, it would label me and

affect my support among the people.

Nothing wrong if a man wants to compose a song for a politician or party to use in an election, because that song will die a natural death once the election is over. But to take a popular song, one that the people give their fullest support to, is to betray the people’s support.

Charles, Edinboro

The ‘black dark stone age’ exists WHEN PEOPLE rent your house and do pay their rent, you do the right thing by putting them in courts to get them out. The first thing the court will tell you is, you have to give them six months.

When the six months are up, and they don’t come out, the court still tells you to give them another six months. That is too much advantage taken of property owners. Some of these people borrow money from financial institutions to do construct building to put up for rent as a business,. They depend on their

rent money to pay back the loans.

Can you imagine how many property owners have become frustrated’ some might have even had heart attacks and died.

The government is responsible for citizens, even though some time we may not get. When people who are given notice to leave someone property (and they should get three months not six) , and they don’t leave, get the Black Squad to put their appliances, etc. in the government storage building.

Then, let the government take the

responsibility to pay the rent owing to property owners.

Can you image these things still going on in this day and age, where technology is So advanced.

What is happening to us in this country? Are we still living in the ‘black dark stone age?

Let us say like West Indies captain J. Holder, “Thank God for the secular reviews, because if wasn’t for that, England would have won the first Test Match within three days.”

Alistair ‘Live Up’ Simon

Different names for God WHO IS GOD? People use different names to identify who they claimed to be the creator God, and the one they worship as the true and living God. But, as you listen on global media, on the streets, and in churches, the name of God is used in vain. Many who teach and preach do not even know the true God of creation.

God is the Divine energy that was, is and will always be. God is consuming fire that

created water, the fresh and salt water in which mother earth resides.

God is air, with that triunion, there is no measurement of space and time. Every other good thing came and was sustained with the combination of air, water and fire. All modern inventions depend on God, Jah, Allah, Yahweh… fire (heat), water and air.

When earth was created out of the triunion, it was dry for many years (Gen. 2:5)

before life emerged after the irrigation system which encompassed the whole land of Ethiopia (v. 13). The first human created, who the bible called Adam, was created in Africa to govern planet earth. We were invaded by ‘aliens’ who killed our leaders and enslaved us in our own land and elsewhere.

They forced us to believe in foreign gods.

So, the question, who is God? No one has seen God at any time (just as

you do not see the fire or current in an electric wire). If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us”. (1 John 4:12 “…God is love ….”

V.7) Leaders and people who hate one another because of race, political affiliation, class, nationality, tribe, etc. are devils. Those who are “peacemakers” are the children of God. Christian Democrat

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8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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Excerpt from the 2020 Budget Address on Tourism

Introduction A CURSORY review of recent economic growth numbers reveals that tourismdependent Caribbean economies have been growing faster than non-tourism economies. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has not benefitted to the same extent as others with a more developed tourism product.

Of course, by the same token, global downturns have more deeply affected countries which place too many of their economic eggs in a single tourism basket. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is striving to achieve the appropriate optimal mix and balance for our circumstances — large enough to contribute more to the economy and take advantage of global upswings, but not so large as to crowd out other productive activities where we retain a distinct regional advantage.

Within this framework, the future of tourism in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is bright. The opening of the Argyle International Airport has spurred a rush of new investment in the Vincentian hospitality sector. Our Government recognises that, in this moment of rapid change and expansion, it must play an important role in shaping the tourism product, managing its growth, and ensuring that the Vincentian people are the ultimate beneficiaries of increased visitors.

2019 was a positive year for tourism in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

We recorded increases in arrivals by air and sea. We improved our number of stayover visitors. We once again broke our record for cruise ship arrivals. We welcomed more yacht visitors than we have at any point over the last decade.

During the Christmas season, scores of private jets were parked wingtip-towingtip across the tarmacs of our Argyle and Canouan airports.

We fulfilled our 2019 budget pledge to add more flights at AIA. In 2018, we received 99 direct flights from Toronto, Miami and New York. In 2019, that number increased to 191 round trip flights. Those flights carried over 21,000 passengers each way, into and out of AIA. We were pleased that Air Canada added a second weekly flight during the tourist season, and that American Airlines also flies a second flight from Miami each week. The second American Airlines aircraft — a Boeing 737-800 — has 25% more seating capacity than the Airbus A319 that originally began servicing our destination. Both airlines fly into Argyle at or near capacity. Air Canada’s average occupancy rate was 88% coming from Toronto, and American Airlines came from Miami 97% full.

Only 35% of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ room stock is located on mainland Saint Vincent, and the single largest component of that stock is in apartments. Excluding apartments, the data show that the islands of the Grenadines are home to almost 75% of the national stock of hotels, resorts, guesthouses and villas. Our current airlift of twice-weekly flights from Air Canada, Caribbean Airlines and American Airlines has more seats than we have beds on mainland Saint Vincent.

Airlines and tour operators frequently ask how many rooms are located within a 45 minute drive of a country’s airport. Including apartments, there are fewer than 1,000 registered rooms on mainland Saint Vincent. By contrast, Antigua and Barbuda has almost 4,000 rooms and Saint Lucia has over 5,000. Further afield, Barbados and the Cayman Islands are home to roughly 7,000 rooms each, and the Bahamas has over 17,000.

Simply put, to leverage fully the developmental potential of tourism in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, we need more rooms. Tourism Authority data indicate that room stock in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines grew by 5% between 2017 and 2018. In percentage terms, that growth was second only to Saint Lucia within the OECS, and reflects the growing belief of our private sector in the potential of hotels, villas and apartments. But incremental growth is insufficient. We must raise our ambition and lift our game.

More Hotel Rooms on the mainland

The Government and the private sector have embarked on an ambitious plan to double the room stock on Saint Vincent within three years. That means adding 1,000 rooms. As promised, almost 350 of those rooms will be built by the Government, in the form of the new Marriot resort and Holiday Inn Express hotels. The Black Sands Resort at Peters Hope will add another 400 rooms. The Royal Mill Hotel at Ratho Mill will be a 200-room facility, while the recently commenced The View, and Myah’s Luxury Suites — a boutique business hotel — will add 50-plus. The likely refurbishment and reopening of the resort at Buccament Bay will add over 250 rooms to the mix. These hotels, totaling almost 1,200 rooms, are scheduled to be operational at various points between 2021 and 2023, directly employing almost 1,500 Vincentians. We 2020 very optimistic fully expect continued steady expansion of existing hospitality operators over The Tourism Authority is optimistic that time period, meaning that our about route expansion in 2020, three-year 1,000 target may be both including the likelihood of new regional ambitious and conservative. One and international carriers announcing thousand five hundred additional rooms services to Saint Vincent and the on mainland Saint Vincent by 2023 is a Grenadines this year. Additionally, by distinct possibility. late 2020, it is likely that we will The Government has been reliably welcome direct flights from new advised that there are multiple, destinations— including destinations credible, expressions of interest for the beyond the continent of North America. closed hotel at Buccament Bay. We are Now that the AIA is up and running, more than hopeful about a positive the largest remaining obstacle to major conclusion to ongoing negotiations on growth in the tourism sector is our room this matter in the near future, and we stock — particularly the number of eagerly await the final determinations available rooms on mainland Saint from the investors and the trustees of Vincent. the property.

Historically, our tourism product has These rooms will attract additional been shaped by limited air access and flights and larger planes from more the multiple islands of our archipelago. distant points of origin, connecting Our hotels have evolved to be small, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to scattered and unconnected to major more of the world. marketing brands. While discrete, Budget 2020 does more for tourism diffuse accommodation is ideal for the than its large commitment to hotel Grenadines, it is ill-suited for expansion. We have made significant developing mass tourism on mainland investments in creating new tourism Saint Vincent. sites and maintaining exiting ones.

NDP will implement the Constituency Development Fund THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) is satisfied, more than ever, that we have to revisit our administrative development approach on behalf of our people. When we examine the number of constituency representatives who have failed the voters of this blessed land, it is difficult not to conclude that we have witnessed a system failure in our political administrative process. One of the ways that we propose to change it, is through the implementation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

The NDP holds the view that if we approach national development from a constituency point of view, we are more likely to have a better result, specifically the following: more people will share the national pie; national wealth will be more equitably distributed; more people will get the opportunity to participate in contributing to production at all levels; and we will broaden the number of people who own the wealth in the country.

It is our view that if all of our constituencies develop, then automatically, the whole country will develop. A natural expansion of this approach is that we can have more and better capital project implementation, if better provisions are in place for constituency representatives to assist in their respective constituencies, within the framework of the financial and audit requirements of the government.

Further, it is clear that the successful operation of any CDF is contingent upon strong involvement and leadership of the elected representatives. The members of parliament play an essential role in facilitating constituents’ participation to make claim upon government services. In this role, members of parliament can ensure that CDF resources are used efficiently and honestly, with the intent to meet the public interests of their constituencies. Thus, the potential offered by the CDF hinges on the initiative of members of parliament and their dedication to empowering citizens to participate in their own development.

The following are general principles of good governance that should apply to all Constituency Development Funds, as outlined by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, which the NDP will adopt. These are responsiveness, transparency, administration and management, accountability, and monitoring and evaluation.

administration of government services in an open and publicly observable manner that creates opportunities for public participation. * The process of CDF project selection and implementation shall be transparent. Members of parliament and CDF committees shall consult constituents about local development problems and all possible solutions. * All financial information regarding the use of CDF funds on projects shall be publicly available and documented according to standard and auditable accounting principles. Documentation of CDF funding shall be made publicly available in a timely manner.

Administration and Management * The CDF shall be administered and managed in an efficient, effective and transparent manner. In this regard, the elected representative and committees shall facilitate the process by mobilizing citizen participation, streamlining implementing mechanism and proactively complying with them. Such actions ensure that the CDF administration and management will be performed in a timely fashion and remain faithful to the CDF. * The Constituency Development Fund shall be allocated to individuals in a fair and equitable manner, regardless of the elected Member of Parliament partisanship, gender or religion. * The CDF funds shall be channeled to a separate account of a public agency.

Access to the funds shall be limited to officially authorized administrators.

Funds shall be managed according to the best practices of public financial management.

Monitoring and Evaluation

* Monitoring and evaluation of CDF projects are essential tasks to help ensure learning about what actions are most effective in fostering constituency development. Monitoring ensures that CDF projects are progressing toward their goal, while evaluation assesses the efficiency, effectiveness, impact and results of a CDF project. * Monitoring shall be performed throughout a CDF project to ensure that it is progressing towards its publicly stated goal. Constituents and legitimate stakeholders shall be afforded Responsiveness: opportunities to participate in the monitoring process. * The CDF shall improve the well* Evaluation shall be conducted upon being and livelihood of constituents. The completion of projects, by appropriate primary benefit of a CDF is to direct additional resources to constituencies to government agencies. Evaluation shall be made publicly available to ensure solve socioeconomic and humanitarian problems identified by constituents and that CDF committees are aware of the effectiveness of previous CDF projects. elected representatives. * Project selection and Accountability implementation shall be based on the needs of the people who will be provided * Accountability and oversight play with opportunities to communicate their essential roles in promoting project diverse development needs to their quality, improving decision-making, and elected representatives and CDF preventing corruption and abuse of CDF committees. funds. Proper oversight of CDF * Responsiveness can also be financing ensures fiscal probity and achieved through a variety of means, including public forums and discussions promotes accountability to the public.

Another benefit that can be derived about a community’s development from the implementation of the CDF is needs. A responsive CDF process shall job creation. We are confident that at also solicit input from all legitimate least one hundred (100) persons will be stakeholders by regularly including meaningfully employed in each them in project selection and constituency with the establishment of implementation. the CDF. We, therefore, will undertake the establishment of a Constituency Transparency Development Fund to advance the basic needs of our people. * As in the case of the CDF, is the The electorate must give the NDP the fundamental cornerstone of an open opportunity to govern the affairs of St. government that promotes citizens engagement. Transparency refers to the Vincent and the Grenadines, so we can make SVG work for all Vincentians.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 9.

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Where Cynics abound

“Cynicism was a one-way path, and once taken, the way back was lost forever.” Chris Wooding (Born 1977) British writer.

ONE OF THE REGULAR READERS of the essays that appear in this column sent me a most interesting email following the publication of the essay entitled “Bridging the Divide”, which appeared in the Friday, 31st July 2020 issue of The Vincentian newspaper. Among his many illuminating comments, he referred to himself as being cynical when he contemplates how easily individuals pursue selfish gain rather than communal interest. My response pounced on the word “cynical” and I indicated that I had an unfinished article (this one) entitled “Where Cynics Abound”. He encouraged me to complete it, and indicated that he looked forward to reading same. He then proceeded to provide very useful insights. Some of these are captured in this essay.

Dictionary.com defines a cynic as “a person who believes that only selfishness motivates human actions and who disbelieves in or minimizes selfless acts or disinterested points of view.” Sometimes we incorrectly conclude that a cynic, or being cynical, is considered to be negative … undesirable. However, this is not necessarily the case. It must be considered as a position taken after having assessed an individual or situation at a given time. It must not be interpreted to be a permanent state of being.

It may sometimes appear fruitless to hold on to life’s ideals; to believe in the honesty and goodness of mankind; to trust that good will triumph over evil; that bad things would not happen to good people and good things will not happen to the bad people. However, these are fallacies.

There will be times when we forcefully realise that life is not fair.

It is often then that we gently and gradually slide into the realm of hopelessness … where cynics abound.

The thoughts shared in the preceding paragraph could quite easily be challenged. In reality, they may appear to be very superficial.

After all, there are many significant variables that can contribute to any of the positions identified. We can also question/challenge the thoughts shared in the Chris Wooding quotation that was used to introduce this essay. We know, for example, that cynicism does not have to be a one-way path; cynics can change. All is not lost when we enter the cynicism chasm. Situations change. People change. We determine whether or not we embrace cynicism. We do not have to dwell where cynics abound. There are still good, decent, honest, and righteous individuals within our midst. This writer is equally confident that many of this column’s readers can be described by the words appearing in the preceding sentence — good, decent, honest, and righteous.

My “reader friend”, who was referred to in the introductory paragraph, shared some insights derived from a religious Barbadian aunt who would say, “The devil drives cynics and cynical views.” On reflection, we understand and appreciate that the thoughts that we entertain can often lead us to think the worst of people and/or of a given

situation. Hence the thoughts that it is the devil who drives this process.

However, we sometimes credit the devil for our own errors of judgement and the thoughts that we entertain.

We choose. We decide. We determine whether we retire to that place where cynics abound.

There is an old Buddhist saying that, "To be cynical is to show a lack of compassion and understanding. It will regress your journey to ultimate enlightenment." In so many ways the lure to be cynical, to focus on the negative rather than the positive, appears to be a recipe for unhappiness and disappointment.

Our thrust in the direction of joy, peace, and enlightenment demands that we engage in demonstrating compassion, forgiveness, and tolerance. These are considered essential tools as we seek to construct and maintain positive views of self and others. This does not imply that we enter the realm of self-deception or the diffusion of discernment. We are required to maintain our objectivity as we view and review life’s varied situations. However, while doing so, we can appreciate the good that often lies dormant in a “bad person” or “bad situation”. Even as we cope with and/or recover from a personal disaster or tragedy, we can engage in acts of kindness, and service, noting that caring and sharing are considered key ingredients in the antidote to poisonous cynicism.

Stephen Colbert (born 1964), the American comedian, writer, and television host, in an address to young people, provides some deep, powerful, and useful insights when he stated, “Remember, you cannot be both young and wise. Young people who pretend to be wise to the ways of the world are mostly just cynics. Cynicism masquerades as wisdom, but it is the farthest thing from it. Because cynics don’t learn anything. Because cynicism is a self-imposed blindness, a rejection of the world because we are afraid it will hurt us or disappoint us.

Cynics always say ‘no’. But saying ‘yes’ begins things. Saying ‘yes’ is how things grow. Saying ‘yes’ leads to knowledge.” The ideas being illuminated here is that our young people (and older ones too) need to avoid the defeatist position of accepting the status quo and being satisfied with things as they are when they can be better. Each of us, in our own way, must accept the challenge to be the best that we can be. We respond with a “yes” to the invitation to do more with less and to create a better quality life for self and others.

“Yes” is our response to the invitation to live a pure, honest, righteous life when others may seek to invite us to compromise our principles and to dismantle our purity.

Be assured that there will be times when we, you and I, will appear to be cynical. However, we are cautioned to be in transit visitors rather than residents of those places where cynics abound.

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

Beware the seductive attractiveness of politics and religion ACTIVITIES TO MARK the 186 anniversary since the abolition of slavery in the English-speaking Caribbean took place at two points in Kingstown last Saturday.

Dubbed Taste of Africa, the Sion Hill, Emancipation Day event was held with the theme: Understanding our past and shaping our future for an empowered future generation.

Delivering the feature address, Jomo Sanga Thomas, chairman of St Vincent and the Grenadines Reparations Movement and head of the government organized SVG reparations Committee, told the audience that while he was honoured to do the feature address, it was important for organizers of these events to realize that ‘all-important activities, all important revolutionary activity and the struggle for reparations, all of the great task were led by young people.’

To bring home the message, Jomo Sanga pointed to several historic figures who made outstanding contributions to all aspects of our struggle for freedom, democratic rights and progress. ‘When Malcolm X was assassinated, he was only 39 years old; Martin Luther King was 39 years, and Maurice Bishop was 39 years old,’ Sanga told the crowd.

‘Franz Fanon, who give us such outstanding works of scholarship such as Wreathed of the Earth, Dying colonialism and Black skin, White mask was only 36; Bob Marley was 36 at his death, and Fidel Castro, the great Cuban revolutionary leader, was all but 32 years old when he led the Cuban people to victory over the mighty US Imperialism.’

‘The struggle for emancipation is a youth project and that’s why we need to train a new cadre of young people to take up and carry the struggle forward.

The struggle for reparations is fundamentally a struggle for power.

Therefore, this struggle for reparations and the advancement of our people is going to be long and hard. It will be a marathon and not a sprint. And that is why we need young people because the youths never get weary.’

Sanga Thomas pointed to the seminal role played by black people in the march for freedom. He noted that Haiti became the first black republic in the western hemisphere in 1804. This fight against the French, English and Americans was led by enslaved African men who vowed to be free. Toussaint, Dessalines, Christophe and Boukman led the Haitian fight fought and defeated the mighty Napoleonic army.

The defeat in Haiti forced Napoleon to sell over 15 million acres of lands in what is now the USA because France lost its most profitable piece of real estate in the New World. The Haitian victory in 1803 led to the abolition of the trade in enslaved African bodies in 1807, much in the same way the Sam Sharpe led rebellion in Jamaica in 1831 compelled the British to rush to parliament in 1833 to sign the emancipation proclamation, Sanga Thomas told his audience.

African people demand reparations because the reparations experiment was first tried and perfected in Haiti. In 1825, when the Haitians were celebrating their 21 anniversary of independence, British, American and French warships showed up on the Haitian coastline. The French demanded that they are paid the modern-day equivalent of $21 billion in reparations for the audacity of freeing themselves from slavery and reclaiming their land. Haiti never finished paying the ransom until 1947. ‘The sin of

president Aristide,’ Sanga Thomas told the crowd, ‘was his demand that France repays the reparations money it stole over 6 generations.’ For this act of audacity, the Americans and French governments kidnapped President Aristide and exiled him in the Central African Republic. That theft of Haitian wealth explains the persistent poverty we witness in that sister country today.

Sanga Thomas told his audience that there was a time when the Caribbean was the most valuable and profitable piece of real estate in the world. In the 18th century, at the height of slavery, a worker in Europe, North America and Jamaica was valued at 42, 64 and 2,200 pounds respectively.

Sanga Thomas gave that historical narrative to lay the context for the wise 2013 decision of the CARICOM to engage the English, French and Dutch in a developmental dialogue which will lead to the payment of reparations for the genocide of indigenous peoples and the enslavement of millions of Africans.

The leaders of CARICOM also committed to taking the formers enslavers to the International Court of Justice if the refrain or refuse to commit to negotiating a settlement based on reparatory justice.

Sanga Thomas reminded his audience that at emancipation in 1834, the British government paid the former enslavers 20 million pounds which carries a modern value of about $300 billion. He noted that when people say that slavery ended a long time ago, they must be reminded of the fact, that this 20-million-pound loan, borrowed almost 200 years ago was only finally repaid in total in 2015. The 20 million pounds in 1833 amount to 40 percent of the British budget.

Sanga Thomas concluded by expressing confidence that with the international rise in consciousness around the white supremacy, Eurocentrism and anti-Black racism, best reflected in the Black Lives Matter movement that the 21st century will be the century when African people will win the fight for reparatory justice.

Brother, I Man I Hypolite of the Rastafarian Order of Nyabinghi, also brought greetings to the gathering. He cautioned the people to be on guard against the seductively attractive impulses of organized religion and politics. I Man I emphasised the need for African people to get back to African spirituality and love.

The event at Sion Hill was dedicated to the youths. Books donated by many persons including Vincentians abroad were distributed to the first 50 young people to assembly. There was poetry, singing, fashion, food, drinks, music and the pulsating sounds of African drumming. The people came and the spirit of the African Holy Ghost filled the air. The event was fulfilling, uplifting, satisfying and successful.

The Emancipation celebrations at Bottom Town were organized and led by veteran black nationalist Patches Knights. At Sion Hill, sister Ideisha Jackson of the Lazarus Foundation and the Sion Hill Christmas Lighting Committee were the principal organizers. The event won the support of several individuals and organizations including the SVG Reparations Movement and the Ministry of Culture.

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

V Taiwan owes SVG 10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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UNDER THE INTERNATIONAL Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, SVG is one of the small number of countries in the world that has the right to fish for tuna in the Atlantic Ocean. This licence is hugely valuable, but both the NDP and ULP regimes foolishly allow the Taiwanese to use our licence.

It is alleged that Taiwan owes the SVG Treasury over E$50 billion in unpaid Fish Tax, as they have not paid any tax for the whole time they have been using SVG’s Atlantic Ocean tuna fishing licence. This is a huge amount of money that should have been pumped into the development of SVG over the last few decades.

SVG could have been a much more prosperous country, and our people could have been more prosperous too, if Taiwan had paid the alleged fish tax that they owe us. Instead of having a

very high standard of living throughout SVG, our country is just another Haiti, with high unemployment and deep poverty and destitution.

Taiwan has been in SVG for over 35 years, and its presence here has seriously inhibited SVG’s development.

Taiwan has benefited from that relationship while the lives of a generation of Vincentians have been blighted.

The Taiwanese ships should land their fish catch in SVG, but they do not and this deprives Vincentians of jobs. Is it that Taiwan just wants our people to be subordinate to them and dependent upon them, so they can spoon-feed us whenever they like? The more we are kept in poverty, the more power others will have over us. We end up being a begging nation. Taiwan use the same formula of exploitation in other countries

around the world, where they operate a fish licence.

SVG Green Party says the Taiwan ambassador should pack his bags and go home.

If all the billions of dollars made by the Taiwanese had been invested in SVG, Vincentians would be much better off. SVG could have had free pre-schools 35 years ago, then Vincentian children would have a much better education.

SVG could have had its own university 35 years ago, then tens of thousands of Vincentian children would be university graduates and be able to get high paying, long-term jobs anywhere in the world. SVG could have had its own tuna fishing industry 35 years ago, and this would have sprouted secondary industries and created mass employment now in SVG. A Green Government would cut ties

with the Taiwanese and establish ties with China. Taiwan’s presence in SVG perpetuates poverty and squalor.

A Green government would set up an SVG tuna fishing and canning industry which would provide jobs for thousands of Vincentians. The billions of dollars that we could make from the tuna industry could be used to build our own SVG university, improve hospitals and other health facilities in SVG, provide free education from preschool to university, and connect every house to mains water and electricity.

In order to create a strong economy and prosperity and jobs for our people, Taiwan has to go. According to the Leader of SVG Green Party Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Taiwan must pay the SVG Treasury all of the billions of dollars it alleges owes unpaid Fish tax.

CPEA: Carefully Planning Educational Admission

by Anthony Stewart, PhD THE CURRENT COVID-19 pandemic demands a reset in the way Pre-primary, Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary institutions are organized and managed.

The virus spread is enhanced and facilitated by having people in confined spaces, and by the movement of people together in planes, boats, and vehicles.

Every community usually has the educational resources and personnel that are needed for its success. Therefore, it is advantageous that teachers work in the community in which they live.

Students should also be educated in their own community. This reduces the necessity to travel long distances outside the community and reduces the likelihood of transmission of the COVID19 virus. Additionally, overcrowding in Kingstown schools would be reduced.

Elementary students tend to gravitate to certain schools hoping to enhance their chances of gaining admission to particular Secondary Schools. If these Secondary Schools would offer places to the top 10 students in each elementary school, more of these students would attend their neighborhood school.

Class size needs to be small in order to facilitate social distancing.

Classrooms should be well ventilated and classes should be held outdoors where possible. Team-teaching at the elementary level may not be desirable.

One teacher per class limits possible exposure of staff and students to virus spread.

Emphasis needs to be placed on requiring all teachers to have CSEC passes in English A and Mathematics, and on encouraging them to be active members of the Public Libraries, to read

the local newspapers and to require their students to do the same.

To prevent the run on certain secondary schools, equal opportunity for quality education needs to be available at all secondary schools. The research says that the best schools are academically focused. Therefore, to prevent discrimination against rural schools, all secondary schools should teach each of the core subjects for a minimum of 200 minutes per week, for the 5-year duration of secondary school.

Based on UWI recruiting workshops that I have attended, these core subjects are: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

English A Mathematics Biology Chemistry Physics

Three other subjects, mainly skills and career related, should be taught for the 5-year duration of secondary schooling, at a minimum of 200 minutes per week each. By the time a child graduates from secondary school, he would have sufficient skills to employ himself and others having studied for 5 years in the skilled area. Thus, each secondary school student would study seriously a maximum of 8 subjects.

Knowledge of other areas can be acquired though extensive reading.

Computing skills should be as commonplace as reading as they would be used in all the subjects studied. Many students do not do their part in terms of Homework and Practice. Studying the subjects practically every day would help particularly the weak students to master the subjects, even if it is based solely on class attendance.

The role of policymakers would be to ensure fair and equitable distribution of quality staff and funding for all the schools. Mayreau needs its own secondary school programme. Their

school could be organized from grade 112 with about three additional teachers.

Having to travel by boat every day from Mayreau to attend secondary school in Union Island could be hazardous and counterproductive.

Our Community College should be constantly surveying the needs of the various communities and develop specific Certificate and Associate Degree programmes to meet those needs.

Scholarships should be advertised based on these needs. Areas of need may include: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Piano tuning Pan tuning Shoe repairs and construction Fishing Lifeguarding, Barbering, Auditing, Sewing machine repairs Household Appliance repairs Office Machine repairs Computer repairs Financial counselling Garment construction Farming Marine farming Compost and manure production Landscaping Hair, skin, and nail care Nursing and homecare

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 11.

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12. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG still to license interCaribbean

Caicos islander, recounted his company’s progress since he purchased his first Lyndon Gardiner, founder/chairman of interCaribbean Airways, plane in confirmed that he had always had 1991.

“We began his eyes on expanding the airlines service into the Eastern Caribbean. scheduled operations in Caribbean islands by 2001; we did a company 2025. We had planned name change in 2003 for a longer run but the because at that time it opportunity has was just generally a whole lot of development presented itself so we can do it quicker.” taking place in Turks The former banker, and Caicos. … lifelong entrepreneur and “Then in 2013 we licences, before any of fully trained pilot has changed the name of the the interCaribbean’s 16 been the focus of many company to aircrafts could begin to accolades. interCaribbean traverse local skies.

One Canadian “As it relates to Saint [Airways]. That was aviation specialist, in a done, primarily, to take Vincent and the 2018 blog, described advantage of the new Grenadines, we Gardiner as a visionary submitted an application vision that we had, who “sees the forest and for licences that have not which is to offer an not just the trees… in extended Caribbean been determined yet. the Caribbean [aviation combination air service.

Once we get a industry].”

“Since then, we have determination on the And although solidified our position on licences, then we would Gardiner did not a number of routes and I be able to announce a quantify the projected believe — pre-COVID — start date…. number of jobs that are we’re now up to 14 “We expect it to be expected to be created countries and 23 cities,” done sometime soon when his company sets because apparently that Gardiner said. up shop on mainland St. He pointed to a is the process and we’re Vincent, the shrewd “number of things that in the middle of the businessman listed, are working in process as I understand amongst other benefits, combination” to it,” Gardiner explained. access to jobs and contribute to Effort to reach Prime training beyond interCaribbean Airways’ Minister Dr. Ralph Vincentian shores. projected unparalleled Gonsalves, who is also And when there are no success, especially, in the responsible for aviation more skies left to Eastern Caribbean. related matters, are yet “One of them has to do conquer, Gardiner hopes to bear fruit. to turn his attention with the size of our In the meantime, towards educating the airplanes.

They are not interCaribbean has next generations of small airplanes but when already availed its Caribbean aviation compared to LIAT they service to St. Lucia, service providers. take less people. They Dominica and Antigua, “My dream really is to take 30 people instead of and on August 4, 48 people….

That means create a Caribbean announced connecting that we have the right institution to provide services from Barbados’ sized airplanes for the opportunities in aviation Grantley Adams market.

The other thing which is a highly skilled International Airport to that we are looking at is field …” he told this Grenada and St. Lucia.

It is this latter service the Caribbean enhanced reporter. schedule, and thirdly we interCaribbean was that is expected to are looking at increasing, one of the airlines include St. Vincent and in terms of the identified that were the Grenadines. frequency, more direct prepared to fill the void Gardiner is hopeful flights. left by LIAT being that governments’ push liquidated or scaled to lower taxes on air What’s in store? down. The others travel will have a included SVG Air, One significant impact on the Gardiner disclosed Caribbean, Caribbean cost of tickets. that, “We always had a Airlines (CAL), Silver plan to develop more of Airways and Air Antilles.

Building on one plane an Eastern Caribbean presence…was to be jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.

Gardiner, the 53 present in all the major com years-old Turks and

interCaribbean is awaiting approval of its licence application before it can include SVG in its schedule.

WHAT IS UNDOUBTEDLY the Caribbean’s largest privately owned airline company, interCaribbean Airways anticipated starting to service the Barbados to St. Vincent

air-bridge as early as August 4, 2020.

This was according to the airline’s founder and Chairman Lyndon Gardiner, who spoke exclusively with this

reporter on Wednesday, July 29.

However, Vincentian travellers would have to endure their government’s lethargy in processing the requisite

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 13.

Heritage

Emancipation Day activities well received

FOLLOWING THE SUCCESS of last Saturday’s Emancipation Day activity at the Sion Hill Intersection, organized by the Lazarus Foundation in conjunction with the Sion Hill Lighting Committee and the Department of Culture, organisers plan to make the activity an annual feature.

Chief OrganiserIdeisha Jackson said, “I really think the activity went well… We actually had a very good activity.

I am contented. We are all contented with the outcome … We saw a good turn out from the community (Sion Hill) and from visitors from other places”.

Dubbed ‘A taste of Africa’, the event comprised a cultural package, an exhibition of plants and craft, local and African cuisine, solidarity messages and speeches.

Attorney-at-Law Jomo Thomas delivered the Feature Address and invoked that the education process of persons of African descent must continue and persist.

“One of the things I want to do, brothers and sisters, as we speak to the education of our people, is to understand that our people were not slaves… our people were enslaved… The people who came over from the African continent in the 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, they were brought over as labour, as chattel.”

He continued, “What came over from Africa was not slaves who can only give labour; what they brought over were the engineers, the artists, drummers and the poets and the scientists.”

The attorney noted

The Rose Hall Drummers on stage. that the struggle must continue to enlighten people of African descent “to fight to celebrate our civilisation… We have to fight to ensure that our contribution to the world is brought to the fore and that our people know, because if we don’t know, if our youngsters don’t know, that we were the ones to do architecture and building and engineering… We may

Persons taking in the arts and craft displays.

believe that we don’t know anything about Science.”

Thomas’ speech was well received as well as the performance which followed and which displayed aspects of the African Culture.

Among the performers were poets Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams, Albert Lawrence and Janelle Parris, the Rose Hall Drummers and La

Gracia Dance Group.

Performing artistes Urban Expressions, Patrick Junior, Abuza and Dynamite, Rayvonne and Richardene all rendered songs.

Others who made appearances were Taki and Sons Creation Models and Erasto.

Remarks came from Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture- Hon. Ces Mc Kie; Minister of

Health, Wellness and the Environment- Senator Luke Browne; Dwight Fitz-Gerald Bramble, while solidarity messages came from Beverley Richards, President of the National Council of Women and Judy Grant, a PhD candidate.

And, as part of the day’s activities, books were presented to persons who dressed in African attire.

V Jerry George found dead 14. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

People

AN OUTPOURING of grief marred the 4th day of August as news of Jerry George’s unexpected death made the rounds on social media.

George was a communications specialist who grew more passionate, of late, about getting the astute Caribbean citizen “information ready” on a daily basis.

To that end, he produced and hosted a weekday Facebook live interview styled

talk-show dubbed ‘Early in the Morning with Jerry S. George’.

Apparently George died while hosting the August 4 edition which he entitled ‘Thoughtful Tuesdays’, as per his regular programming.

This episode was largely carried by Grenada-based journalist Beverley Sinclair, who is also the Chief Operations Officer of George’s Island Media Marketing & Communications venture.

At about 25 minutes into the show, Sinclair made the first of several prompts for George to reengage in the presentation, as she made a case for a kinder Caribbean civilization.

She related a story about how helping a blind man to get to his home opened her eyes to the injustices being faced by persons who live with physical and mental challenges, and a combination

of both.

Further on as she concluded her portion of Tuesday’s show, she remarked in their usual banter, “I thank you all for listening to my story and look forward to hearing how you react to it, but I don’t know where my host is, he has abandoned me.

And I need him to come back at this point so we can share some of your comments, hear what you had to say and how you deal with people that you come across in your daily life — what kinds of experiences have you had…”

Sinclair eventually started sharing comments posted on the live feed, having failed to reach George.

‘Early In The Morning’ usually airs for one hour from about 6 a.m., but this last episode streamed for over 2 hours.

For most of that time viewers only saw a black screen as no content was broadcast.

Sometime after 7 a.m., a Facebook post shared on Valerie TuckerGeorge’s account announced, “I am still in shock, came

Jerry George – Communication specialist, social activist, political commentator served as Public Relations Manager for Digicel in the Eastern Caribbean for a number of years. (Photo source: Boom SVG 106.9 FM, Facebook Page) home at about 7:20 a.m. and met my husband, Jerry George on the floor dead.”

It is unclear whether foul play is suspected in George’s demise.

United Kingdom based Vincentian physician Alwyn Leacock was one of the first persons to join the show on Tuesday morning but told us he logged off from the live feed before it ended.

He said, “I refused to accept the news because I know people can hack accounts and make fake news. So that was my first reaction, fake news.

Then his daughter said it was true. I can hardly speak mate.

This is a great tragedy.” jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 15.

Tribute/Regional

Goodbye, John Lewis beaten up but never beaten down. He marched for justice. He spoke the truth. He called for liberation. He never wavered. He never baulked. He never walked away. In the words of Mr. Lewis, “If not us, then who? If not now, then when?” The age-old lesson embodied in a young man who placed his body against power: he kept showing up and showing up daring arrogance and hate to count him out.

Courage comes not easy and, when it does, it is demanding and Josie Gonsalves treasures this photo up with unrelenting; but for American Civil Rights icon John Lewis. those for whom it is intrinsic, it is sublime.

IT WAS A RARE encounter I said, “Sir, what John Lewis was the on the New York City IRT brings you on this train epitome of courage. He train from Manhattan to tonight?” stood shoulders above Brooklyn on a mid-week John Lewis responded, millions, yet on the evening in 2013. I was “On the way to Midtown shoulders of those gone amid a reverie when I Comics for my latest before him who made a recognized him sitting publication”. path upon which he, too, directly across from me on I said, “Awesome! My spilt blood so we could an empty train car: John sister is a huge fan.” march and beckon Lewis, the last of those He said, “Then, come courage with each who spearheaded and on!” footstep. Each of us fought in the deep We chatted a bit must locate and activate trenches of the civil rights longer; then the train our moral imperative war of the 1960s - an era pulled into the against the injustice seared into the minds and designated stop. We got manifest in a racialized hearts of those who study off. We talked more and war if we are to endure and practice freedom laughed a bit as we the centuries-long battle fighting; a period ever briskly walked to the for freedom and more ephemeral and destination. In through liberation. It calls for prescient today. a side door and up a young and old to move As dapper as ever in a narrow staircase, John shoulder to shoulder and navy blue fitted suit, Lewis skipped. It was a confront the tyranny that crisp white shirt, and a small but spirited group ever reigns. signature blue tie, with that awaited him.

This moment of the eyes that twinkled John Lewis, who sits struggle for justice youthful joy, he sat among the great freedom demands and an equal comfortably as any other fighters of his measure of courage and transit commuter generation, joined the precision without heading home after struggle for Black vacillation. In the words work. Our eyes locked. liberation as a teenager: anymore.

The Gaston Browne administration has come to the rescue of the estimated 100 or so workers, by agreeing to make available between Wednesday and Thursday this week, $2.8 million to cover certain LIAT expenses.

(Close to 100 workers were kept on the airline’s payroll even as LIAT suspended its scheduled passenger service following the adverse impact by the COVID-19 pandemic, on regional and international air travel.)

LIAT workers in Antigua rescued LIAT workers in Antigua who have not been paid their July salaries, and who had been ‘scratching their heads’ worrying about how to meet the month’s expenses, need not worry

LIAT workers in Antigua, pictured here in a meeting with their Union earlier this year, can now breathe a ‘temporary’ sigh of relief. (Photo Credit Antigua News Room)

Continued on Page 23.

of Frantz Fanon, “Each generation must, out of relative obscurity discover its mission, fulfil it, or betray it in opacity.”

Josie Gonsalves, USA

Editor’s Note: “John Robert Lewis was an American politician and civil-rights leader who

served in the United States House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district, from 1987 until he died in 2020. Lewis served as the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee from 1963 to 1966.” Wikipedia He was widely seen as

a moral conscience of Congress because of his decades-long embodiment of the nonviolent fight for civil rights. His passionate oratory was backed by a long record of action that included, by his count, more than 40 arrests while demonstrating against racial and social injustice.

16. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 17.

Business

RFHL records third quarter profits

impacts of the COVID pandemic demands that the Group continues to exercise prudence as we navigate the way forward in the best interest of all our stakeholders.

In announcing the results, Mr. Pereira said, “Total assets stood at US$15.76 billion at June 30, 2020, an increase of US$2.98 billion or 23.2% over the total assets at June 30, 2019.

This increase was, in the main, due to the acquisition of Scotiabank’s banking operations in St. Maarten and the Eastern Caribbean (Anguilla, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines) on November 1, 2019 which added US$1.9 billion, and the acquisition of Scotiabank’s operations Vincent Pereira, Chairman of in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) on Republic Financial Holdings Limited June 1, 2020 which added a further (RFHL), had a mixture of good news US$ 0.46 billion to the Group’s asset (increase in asset base) and not so base.” good news (decrease in profit) for He went on to say, “We remain his company’s shareholders. committed to our clients during this difficult time. In addition to the THE CHAIRMAN OF REPUBLIC measures already instituted by the FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED (RFHL), Group, we are working closely with all Vincent Pereira, announced July 29 a profit attributable to shareholders of the our business clients to identify parent of US$115.86 million for the nine- appropriate financing structures to facilitate the continued success of their month period ended June 30, 2020, a respective businesses and with our decline of US$68.56 million or 37.2% below the corresponding period last year. retail clients to agree suitable loan repayment structures.”

These results reflect the financial Mr. Pereira concluded, “I would like impact so far of the novel coronavirus to extend thanks to all our dedicated (COVID-19) pandemic on the Group, employees who continue to provide mainly resulting from decreased customers with essential banking economic activity, narrower margins due to reduced lending interest rates, services during this period. Republic Financial Holdings Limited remains waiver of fees and commissions and committed to balancing the interests the setting aside of additional credit of all our stakeholders in the provisions to cover potential future territories in which we operate, and to losses. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the current and potential assisting in the recovery of the economies of these territories.”

Cave Shepherd Duty Free, no more?

THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) is not just making people ill, it is now severely causing injury to some of the most prominent businesses in Barbados, as more workers are set to join thousands already on the breadline.

After signalling in his last statement to shareholders in May that difficult decisions were coming, chief executive officer of Cave Shepherd & Co. Ltd John Williams announced yesterday that the parent company, faced

with mounting losses, was forced to write down almost $40 million in investments in Duty Free Caribbean Holdings (DFCH) which operates the flagship department store Cave Shepherd, Colombian Emeralds, Pages Bookstores, Jeweler’s Warehouse and Duty Free Caribbean.

Massive losses since COVID-19 hit and the local tourism sector halted, worsening already difficult times which were hangovers from the global financial crisis, Williams said the directors of Cave

Shepherd & Co, had decided not to put any more money in shoring up these retail businesses operating under DFCH. The move, Williams said, will not only reduce the Cave Shepherd Group’s 40 per cent interest in DFCH, but the parent company could even take the dramatic step and pull out altogether from the operations including the Cave Shepherd Store which is more than 100 years old. (Source: Barbados Today)

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18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Come clean, man!!

Dear George, I AM CAUGHT up in one serious entanglement.

There is this guy who has been constantly after my girl. He would meet me and brag that one day he is going to take her from me.

It so happened that I stepped out of my relationship and had a fling with another girl. This went on for about three months when she hit me with the news that she was HIV positive. I recall using a condom but there was an instance where I was uncertain whether the condom held or not.

That said, I have not gone for a test. Instead, I have encouraged this girl to go after the guy who wants my real girlfriend and have sex with him.

She agreed. Am I wrong for taking this approach?

Meanwhile, I know if I told my girl about this other girl and the HIV thing, that would be the end of our relationship.

My head is in tatters. What should be my next move?

Unfair backlash Dear Unfair backlash,

Tit for tat has never been a successful formula and it will never be. No one can take your girl from you; she is the one who would have to make the decision to allow another person come between you two.

You would have to accept responsibility for cheating on the relationship. You need to get tested immediately and talk to your girlfriend about the results. She deserves to know especially as she stands to be affected one way or the other.

You were out of line to encourage this girl to have sex and possibly infect the man who threatened your relationship. There could be legal implications also. Ask her to stand down immediately.

A healthy relationship is founded on honesty, loyalty and commitment.

Your girlfriend deserves to know that the man she thinks she has is not the man she has.

George

Waiting on his divorce to look at the facts that are before; these include the fact that he is I HAVE BEEN seeing married and is doing the this married man who has from the start of our things a married man relationship, promised to needs to do. He lives with his wife and get a divorce. whether or not they Our relationship is into its third year and he occupy separate rooms, is beside the point. is telling me the same From the information story. He cannot point to the stage at which the divorce is, but insists that while he and his wife occupy the same house, they have separate rooms and have no sexual connection.

I confronted him what about he and his wife being seen in Kingstown walking and holding hands. He said that was only a show so that people would not suspect they have a problem.

George, I love this guy, but at the same time I need to settle down now. I have rejected other men for this man, and now I am asking myself whether I have not made a mistake.

Dear George,

Need to know Dear Need to know, You cannot accept the sugar in the words of your married friend if you want to make the right decision. You have

provided, I am led to conclude that this man is not available; you could be wasting your precious years waiting for a ship while standing at the airport. Open your eyes and use your feet. Start walking.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) People who try to persuade you to do things their way will annoy you. Groups and organizations that indulge in social events to raise money will be conducive to meeting new and exciting lovers.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Let your boss know your goals. Your tendency to vacillate will drive everyone crazy. You can make money if you are wise in your choices. Property deals will pay big dividends.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Get proper medical attention and confront your situation decisively. You'll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it. It may not be the best day to confront employers or to present your ideas.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Get out and experience the spice of life.

You may need to make a few alterations to your living arrangements. You will have to control the way you feel. You need to distance yourself from the situation for a little while first.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You have the ability to motivate others.

You must not let fellow workers take advantage of your fine talents. Be careful; you may upset someone you live with if you don't consult with them.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Use your high energy and dynamic approach to win favors from superiors.

Read between the lines when signing contracts. Listen to a good friend who is truly looking out for your best interests.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Moves or the possibility of having someone different living with you may be difficult at first. If they don't want to get involved, work by yourself. Do something constructive outside.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don't be too eager to spend what's left over; more unexpected expenses are evident. Don't hesitate to voice your opinions when it comes to matters pertaining to work.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount.

Relationships will become stronger. Try to get others to stand behind your good judgment. Children may cause limitations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You will do best to entertain those you wish to close deals with. The answers can only come from within. Make sure all of your travel and driver's documents are in proper order. Be up front if you don't want to be embarrassed.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you. Trips will be favorable for business as well as pleasure.

Renovations or purchases made for your home will payoff. Get more involved in group efforts at work.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your reputation may be at stake if you partake in gossip. Taking on too much won't help the situation. Abrupt action will cause difficulties with relatives. New methods and innovative technology will make your job far easier than you anticipated.

ACROSS 1. Thumb locale 5. Beget 9. Whichever 12. Toledo’s Great Lake 13. Important periods 14. Mournfulness 15. Tears 16. Restaurant employee 18. Elementary 20. Singer Doris 21. Sports judge 24. Mock playfully 28. Sauna site 31. Sticky stuff 33. Straggle (behind) 34. Slick substance 35. Spoil 36. Wield a shovel 37. Allow 38. Fair Price 40. Sponsored messages 41. Went by car 43. Adult fellows 44. Picnic insect 46. Opera celebrities 51. Feelings 56. Café list 57. Baseball’s Gehrig 58. Applaud 59. Window glass 60. Dedicated to 61. Very nervous 62. Winter toy DOWN 1. Mint or thyme 2. Tenor-delivered performance 3. Tiny tastes 4. TV’s Arnaz 5. Make garments 6. Lyric-writing Gershwin

7. Invasion 8. Grand homestead 9. Wonder 10. Spoken rejections 11. “Agreed!”

17. Seeded bread 19. Coffee vessel 22. Papa’s wife 23. Biblical song 25. “M*A*S*H” star 26. Verbalized 27. Breakfast staples 28. Auction shout 29. Docking place 30. Chorus range 32. Factually verifiable 38. Italian canal city

39. Cease 42. Brewer’s tub 45. Tattle (on) 47. Troublesome kids 48. Medallion meat 49. Actress Meara 50. Took to court

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 19.

51. Folklore being 52. Dairy-barn bellow 53. Done by us 54. Remind persistently 55. Special operative

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20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

„No quick fix,‰ Woodrow Williams An optimistic Williams believes that the 2021 Inter-Secondary Schools’ Championships can be hosted at the Diamond Track Facility.

Williams said, “Both the track events and the field events can be held in one location, unlike at Arnos Vale, where the field events take place on Arnos Vale Two and the track events at the main venue. With Diamond, Woodrow Williams using a blower apparatus to persons can see all the dry the synthetic material. events as they can be held simultaneously,” he WHILE ATHLETES, coaches mentality, our athletes and others are anxiously will not reach anywhere.” proffered. awaiting the Personal Experience commissioning of the Opportunities Diamond Track Facility, seasoned Technical Williams has never Williams, who is a Official - Woodrow ‘Keylee’ hidden his support for member of the National Williams is cautioning that the Diamond Facility, Stadium Committee and it (track) must not be seen and noted that once also part of the work as a “quick fix” to SVG’s commissioned, it will team that is laying down challenges in Track and provide opportunities for the track, said he is field.

Vincentians. relishing the “first hand” “Having a track is no “First of all, St experience. quick fix, as it can cause Vincent and the “I have been around some to take stock and Grenadines will be the sport for more than see where they are and exposed to a higher level four decades, but I am where they ought to be, of Track and Field relishing the experience while others can be championships, while of first hand of what I turned off when they local athletes will be knew, but never got the realise how much work having a facility which opportunity to do what is they need to do. … they can use to hone Expect no miracles with their talents”, Williams the track, as success will commented. not come overnight,” He noted that it will Williams stressed. also be an opportunity St Vincent and the for Vincentians to be Grenadines is one of the exposed to different VINCENTIAN -DIEL few countries in the disciplines, such as the SPRING has been Caribbean, which is Hammer Throw and the transferred to Polish without such a facility.

Steeple Chase.

Third Division Club — Understandable, “It will also give Wisla Sandomierz, therefore, there is much athletes an outlet to which plays in Group IV. excitement and better their skills at the Spring, a 19 year -old anticipation among the Hurdles, while it will be defensive midfielder who Track and Field novel for most field represented North fraternity here. athletes, who will be Leeward Predators in But according to using a cage for throws.”

Williams, “We can have football competitions Williams expounded. the best facility, but if we here in St Vincent and do not have the right Immediate Hosting the Grenadines, before leaving for Poland on trials late last month, was a “last minute” transfer.

It meant that Spring was just in time for the first round of the new season, which commenced last Sunday.

Spring made his senior St Vincent and the Grenadines debut in 2018 in the CONCACAF Nations League Qualifiers, in his team’s first home match versus A part of the Steeple Chase facility.

The synthetic material being placed at the Diamond Track Facility last Friday. to be done,” Williams related.

Williams revealed that he has had previous exposure (to laying tracks) but not like what he is experiencing with the Diamond Track Facility.

“I have put down 400metre grass tracks, but anever have I done actual work on a synthetic track,” Williams admitted.

Last week saw the

beginning of the placement of the synthetic material on an asphalt base. This is expected to be completed by next week, following which a polyurethanebased substance (layer) would be applied before red granules are applied.

Part of a bugger project The Diamond Track Facility forms part of Phase One of the

National Stadium Project.

In addition to the synthetic track, Phase One includes laying a football field, fencing the facility, and the construction of a bleacher, mounds, dressing rooms, washrooms and a parking lot.

Expected to be completed by the end of the year, Phase One is costed at EC44 million.

Diel Spring signs with new club Nicaragua.

He became a fixture in the team when, in December that same year, Kendale Mercury took over from Cornelius Huggins as coach.

He featured in the 2019 Windward Islands Football Association (WIFA) Tournament, which was hosted and won by St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Spring added to his international caps when he played in five of the six matches which St Vincent and the Grenadines contested in the Nations League Tournament.

Incidentally, the lone lost suffered by SVG was when Spring did not travel to Dominica in November, 2019.

“We watched this footballer on film

materials we received and Coach- Rafal Wojcik decided that Diel would be useful in our team”, said Sebastian Wieczorek, President of Wisla Sandomierz.

A former student of the St Martin’s Secondary School, and a former SVG Under-20 player, Spring helped North Leeward Predators win the 2017 First Division title of the SVG Football Federation National Club Championships.

Promoted to the Premier Division, Predators, captained by Spring, placed second in the 2018/2019 edition of the National Club Championships and won the Knock Out title, with Spring making significant inputs.

His performance

Diel Spring earned him the Best Midfielder award at the 2019 SVGFF Awards Ceremony.

Spring was the lone male recipient when the SVG Cricket Association Inc. in October last year, awarded four young sports persons, for their outstanding performances in 2019.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 21.

Sports

Jules Anthony Academy launched

The initial enrollment of the Jules Anthony Cricket Academy.

remarks on the young people.

“This is an opportunity for you to be a part of an organization; one that not only teaches skills in cricket but also one that will bring out the discipline and YOUNG CRICKETERS in the Academy is to try and leadership qualities that North Leeward area will regain some momentum you have. I urge you to have the opportunity to be of players coming out of be exercise good in a more structured the North Leeward area.” discipline on and off the setting, when they enroll He recalled that there field at all times, since in the Julius Anthony was a time when the there are some players Youth/Cricket Academy, area provided upwards of who have the talent, but which was launched last six to eight players for because they don’t have weekend at the the national U-15 and U- manners and discipline, Cumberland playing field. 19 teams. This, he said, they fall along the way,” Addressing the has dwindled to two or he told them. launch, Elron Lewis, three.

Carlos James, Speaker President of the Julius In lending his support of the House and Unity Anthony Sports Club, out for the initiative, Patel Labour Party candidate of which grew the Matthews, for the area in the Academy, explained: Parliamentary upcoming general “The objective of the Representative for the election, and patron of Julius Anthony Cricket area, focused his the Academy, “The legacy of Julius Anthony spanned many decades of cricket development in North Leeward, and the continuation of this programme by the Academy must be commended,” he said, adding, “It’s a worthwhile undertaking and an exceptional and honorable move to continue the legacy of

Julius Anthony.

Former West Indies player Ian Allen and present West Indies player Keswick Williams, both from the area, were on spot to offer their support. In brief remarks, Williams urged the young players “to work and be determined if you want to achieve a good career in life.

Marry sports and your academics, as it has benefited me, and once you think that way, you will also benefit.”

Theon Gordon, a former national cricketer and manager, and current coach and CONCACAF instructor, expressed his thanks to Julius Anthony for the positive impact he had on his life.

William Anthony, brother of Julius Anthony, was pleased the Academy was named after his brother. “The launch of this Julius Anthony Cricket Academy is a fulfillment of his life journey. He was committed to North Leeward and had an impact on a number of youngsters. It is at the U-15 his legacy stands out, so it is fitting that House Speaker Carlos this venture is in his James (2nd from left name. Among other front – standing) hands things, he was the over gear to members of mastermind of the the Academy.

VINLEC North Leeward

Table Tennis activities expected to resume THE SVG TABLE TENNIS Association is expected to activate its Annual Summer Camp programmes soon.

Five-day Camps are earmarked for Fancy,

Georgetown, Bequia and Union Islands, and are expected to be conducted in accordance with the International Table Tennis Federation’s (ITTF) COVID-19

Table Tennis activity is set to be resumed here with the Annual Summer Camp.

guidelines and those of the Ministry of Health here.

Training sessions are scheduled for Monday to Friday and will be conducted by coaches Romano Spence, who will be responsible for Fancy, Georgetown and Union; and Rodney Caruth, who will take care of Bequia.

Community-based coaches will assist the designate coaches.

Two sessions will be held on each day of the five days, with each session lasting 75 minutes. Each session will involve two groups of 6 players maximum in each group.

In related news, the SVG Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA)

has officially announced the cancellation of the National TT Championships originally scheduled for July/August, and the Independence Tournament slated for October.

The SVGTTA is hopeful that the ITTF would adjust its guideline — e.g. allow seven instead of six players per hall. If this materializes, the local Association would commence its monthly assessment competitions in November 2020.

The Camps have been sanctioned by the Ministries of Education and Health.

Stories I.B.A.ALLEN

Cricket Competition where a number of national players added flavour to the competition”.

A presentation of cricket gear was made by House Speaker Carlos James to the Academy.

Elron Lewis, President of the Julius Anthony Sports Club, gave the background to the Cricket Academy.

ÂAcademy bold and timely,Ê Bascombe

MILES BASCOMBE, former West Indies player, Vice President of the SVG Cricket Association, Manager of the National Sports Council and West Indies selector, said the initiative taken to establish the Julius Anthony Cricket Club/Youth Academy is important for the overall development of cricket, and he expressed the belief that the programme is “a timely one”.

Miles Recalling when North Bascombe Leeward was a breeding ground described the for national youth cricketers, Jules Anthony Bascombe said he was “…excited Youth with the launching of this Jules Academy as a Anthony Academy because I see bold and timely it as a catalyst for the step. resurgence of North Leeward cricket; it takes players from a very young level, which will allow them to go on to the junior, or senior national level. My hope is that this initiative would have a ripple effect across the country not only in terms of cricket and the formation of clubs, but also across various sporting disciplines, because a club system adds much needed structure.”

He commended the President, Elron Lewis and his executive for having taken a bold step. “It would have been much easier to just continue things as they were, but to go a step further and add the structure of a club, tells me that you are thinking beyond your own time,” Bascombe said.

“As an executive, I want you to embrace your responsibility to the members of the club who will be coming to you. You have a responsibility to help them to get their game to the next level; you have a responsibility to develop the members holistically; you have a responsibility to your community,” he implored.

He advised the administrators not to limit their ambitions and the players to look at cricket as a career, as he referenced the progress of local cricketers Keswick Williams, Sunil Ambris, Desron Maloney, Kenneth Dember.

“Anywhere there is positive engagement with young people, that is something that should be embraced and should be supported; and when we support these initiatives, we are helping ourselves and our communities” Bascombe posited.

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22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Jules forever IT IS INEVITABLE, for he blazed such a relentless trail that there is always something to remind you of the life of Julius Anthony. He died November 16, 2018, but the fruits of his labour will not be in vain.

Whatever forms they manifest; the spirit of the former North Leeward activist will remain etched in the hearts of the Vincentian population.

Jules’ name will echo at any sporting facility for many a year. Last weekend was another in the Jules Anthony foundation. A Youth Club is being established in his honour. A ceremony marking a launch heard presentations from many akin to who is who in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Those included Ian Allen, former West Indies fast bowler.

There was sense of sincerity in the presentations. Parliamentary representative for the area Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews identified with Jules’ tenacity as far as action in North Leeward was concerned.

Speaker of the House of Assembly Carlos James declared himself available and promised to keep up with his total involvement in North Leeward affairs.

Theon Gordon is attached to football, having served as a National Under-20 captain. Theon expressed gratitude to the lessons Jules provided him, and praised the deceased administrator.

While Gordon has concentrated on his strengths, he cherishes the avenues provided for him which Jules carved out. Gordon is making use of the Goulding Playing Field in Fitz Hughes to carry out his Football programme.

Gordon revealed having been the one who introduced Miles Bascombe to the North Leeward area. The Under 15 programme engendered by Jules had such an impact that Miles had to be involved.

He regretted that he never improved on the 211 he made in the Under 15 level. But whatever the situation, Miles represented the West Indies at the T/20 level. He is Vice President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Cricket Association and also a regional selector.

He is supervised by Dr. Kishore Shallow, who is Vice president of Cricket West Indies. Dr. Shallow is originally from Coulls Hill which is as North Leeward as one gets. Dr. Shallow has been a stalwart of the Coulls Hill Rangers Team which has been a backbone of any North Leeward Cricket competition.

Just by Bascombe’s endorsement, the Jules Anthony foundation is set to build on.

The Jules Anthony Youth Club had its baptism in genuine combat during the launch. The ceremony took place during a play-off with some counterparts from the North Central Windward who emerged victors.

Their target of 74 which the North Leeward youths secured. But with a man like Orlanzo Jackson in the North Central Windward mix, North Leeward would haven up against it.

The competition will have its worth for there is a return fixture carded for the Park Hill Playing Field August 22.

If one thought that Saturday August 1 would have been overwhelming as far as the name Jules Anthony is concerned, there was more the following day. And it took a depth of reserve for the North Leeward outfit, going under the umbrella of Jules Anthony to ensure they got the chance to defend their title.

Northern Stars on course to retain title CJ MSDA JULES ANTHONY Northern Stars Northern Stars are one step away from retaining their championship title in the NLA-SVG Cricket Association’s National First Division 50 Overs Cricket Competition.

They took that step when they defeated RSVG Police One by 21 runs in the first semi-final played at the Cumberland Playing Field last Saturday.

In a low scoring game, Northern Stars batted first and made 169. Jade Matthews led with 29 and Akiel Manson got 27.

Bowling for RSVG Police One, Gerald Gould turned in the impressive figures of 5 for 39 and Elmore Alexander took 3 for 20.

A target of 170 for victory seemed within the reach of Police One who have been a determined unit over the years. However, it was not to be, for the lawmen

Denson failed to put Hoyte hit 86 together any and took 3 meaningful for 28 for partnerships North and were shot Windward. out for 148.

Anthonio Sutherland top scored with 52, and Jide John took 4 for 28, Jade Matthews 3 for 25, and Dorson Cottle 2 for 22, bowling for the defending champions.

At Park Hill on Sunday, Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward secured their first ever semi-final spot, when they disposed of Corea’s Distribution Belfongo by a whopping 157 runs, in the last quarter final match.

Gareth Wilson was the star of the day with an entertaining 118, laced with 5 sixes and 15 fours.

He and Desmond Hoyte, 86, were the major contributors to their

Gareth Wilson stroked 118 for North Windward

team’s total of 304 in 47 overs.

Vernardo Primus picked up 3 for 5, Travis Cumberbatch 3 for 68 and Daryell Mandley 2 for 71, for Belfongo.

Belfongo, with the exception of Bill Edwards, 40, Elton Eilliams, 39, Travis Cumberbatch, 32, never looked the part, and were bundled for 147 in 24 overs.

Denson Hoyte returned with the ball to take 3 for 28, Hanif Ollivierre had 2 for 40 and Gareth Wilson 2 for 1.

The second semi-final will see Keegan’s Bequia X1 taking on Jay’s Roof Top & Bar North Windward at the Arnos Vale 1 Playing Fiel, with the winner meeting Northern Stars, all this weekend.

I.B.A.ALLEN CJ MSDA Jules Anthony – on the verge of another title.

Woodley blends academics and track

TAMARA WOODLEY, who teamed up with fellow athletes Annicea Richards, Odiesha Nanton and Keifer Bailey from the IT-DAT Academy to secure gold in the 4X400 meters relay at the 2018 CARIFTA in the Bahamas, is currently on a 4-year scholarship at the University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, USA. “I’m a Biology major with a Psychology minor, and thus far school has been quite well... despite the fact that COVID-19 did impact school and track and field by cutting my season short and having to transition school to fully online,” she told this publication.

Woodley, who also set new national junior and senior female 400m records last season at the McCook/Gibson rely in Jamaica, is adjusting well to the different training environment.

“My training methods are quite different. I had a lot of adjusting to do in terms of schedule,

training in the cold, etc. ... . In terms of the training schedule, it is quite time consuming simply because sometimes I have to train three times a day and still attend classes in between practice. So, at first it was quite hectic, but after it became the norm.

“Also unlike here in St. Vincent, there are frequent track meets, sometimes out of state, so I had to get adjusted to all the hustle and bustle between track meets and school.... It was quite a bit of a strain because everything was new and different, but overtime I adjusted and fitted in perfectly”.

Woodley is working toward achieving her goal in life. “My objective is simply to keep on bettering myself holistically. I know that if it wasn’t for track and field I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to get a tertiary level education, travel and even experience new things in life, and I do aspire to become a

professional athlete one day. But, so far I’m focusing on getting degrees in the biological Tamara field so I will be Woodley has able to get a job her life’s beam and build a well focused. strong foundation for myself in life.”

She added, “In terms of returning home ...I don’t intend to make St. Vincent my place of residence for now, simply because being abroad provides more opportunities and has a lot more to offer in the field that I am planning to study. I however, do plan on always making myself available to assist my country in whatever way possible.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 07, 2020. 23.

Classifieds

LIAT workers in Antigua rescued that basis we have opted creditors.

(Sources: Antigua to pay $1.4 million.” “[Of this amount] $1.4 The Prime Minister million will go to the said this does not stop [Administrator] and $1.4 the other countries “to million will go towards include Barbados,” paying the staff who paying their share of the have been working for monies owed to the the past month and have workers. not received a red cent,” “But we are not Prime Minister Browne waiting on them to make said on Pointe FM’s their payment, we have Browne and Browne decided to cover 100 per Show. cent of the payment for “Antigua and Barbuda the last month,” he said. has agreed to step up Meanwhile, the court and make those appointed Administrator payments in full. And for LIAT, Guyana-born inasmuch as we are only Cleveland Seaforth of responsible for about 36 BDO, who, according to per cent of the $1.4 Prime Minister Browne, million, there was a has begun to meet with previous payment that various stakeholders, but we did not participate in one of his major earlier in the year, so on objectives is to meet with Continued from Page 15.

Media, Barbados Today)

AMELIA MILETHA THOMAS

HARLEY EBENEZER DOUGLAS

South Rivers Methodist Church Saturday, 1st August, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

Layou S.D.A Church Sunday, 2nd August, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Layou Cemetery

KIMRAN ONEIL Mt Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Vermont Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Penniston Cemetery

GEORGE AUGUSTUS CARR

WALTER CORNELIUS LEWIS

BASIL DANIEL

Calder S.D.A Church Sunday, 2nd August, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery Stubbs

Church of the Nazarene Rillan Hill Saturday, 1st August, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

6W -RKQ¶V 6SLULWXDO Baptist Church Union Island Saturday, 1st August, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Ashton Cemetery

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FRIDAY, AUGUST

07, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.32

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

PRISON OFFICER KING SUSPENDED ALMOST two weeks since his July 16 arraignment, embattled Prison Officer Kenson King was suspended indefinitely from his duties at Her Majesty’s Prison.

The suspension took effect from Tuesday, July 28.

King is reported by Asbert News Network to have said that the suspension did not take him by surprise.

“It was just a matter of time — waiting to see how long it would have taken them before they sent a letter of suspension to me because the law — which is the Service Commission regulations — simply states, in lay man

terms, once you have a criminal charge against you, you must be on suspension. So they really had no choice … .”

King’s recent legal woes sprang from an alleged altercation between him and Dorian Mapp, a 23—year-old inmate who hails from Victoria Village.

Reports are that Mapp responded with a slap when King, in pursuance of his duties, asked him to comply with another colleague’s directive. King, the court papers purport, retaliated with several blows to Mapp’s face and body.

This alleged onslaught resulted in

ATIBA: A WINNER AGAIN

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

ATIBA LOCKHART has been a cultural activist from early in his life, and in fact boasts a colourful and successful participation in this country annual carnival.

He is no stranger to ‘winning’; he has been Junior King of the Bands, Individual of the Year and King of the Bands.

Yesterday, August 6, Lockhart, a technician, collected a cheque of $63,000 from the National Lotteries Authority, representing his winnings from the Lotto draw of Friday, June 12.

Lockhart confessed that he was hesitant to continue with his Lotto drive having gone hard during the draw for the million-dollar jackpot.

However, while waiting for his family Thursday June 11, he noticed that the traffic at Daddy’s Shop outside Victoria Park was slow. He was enticed to purchase a ticket and he chose the numbers: 04, 05, 06, 09 and 17.

Atiba Lockart (left) accepting his winnings.

He placed the ticket in the glove compartment of his vehicle.

Even though it was disclosed that the winning ticket was sold at Daddy’s Shop, Lockhart couldn’t imagine that lady luck had shone on him.

Even so, he lost track of the ticket until one day while cleaning his vehicle, he came upon the ticket and was surprised that his ticket has the winning combination of numbers.

He considers it a “blessing” to have won, especially in these times. He recalled having not won anything previously except for a free ticket.

the prisoner being treated at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. Damage to Mapp’s face was said to have required five (5) stitches and the attention of an Eye Specialist.

When the 33-yearold Park Hill resident appeared before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 16th July, he pleaded not guilty to criminal charges of wounding an inmate entrusted to his care, and was granted EC$2000.00 bail with one surety.

Unconfirmed reports claim that the video recordings that should be objectively used to convict or vindicate King were surreptitiously erased.

While King proclaimed his ignorance as to the security protocols that would manage video footage storage, he expressed confidence in the management of the prison and the security team, since their input was vital in clearing him of prior physical abuse allegations lodged in 2018. “… [they] do not cut corners; especially when it comes to things happening in the jail illegally…,” King is reported to have said.

King’s indefinite suspension comes with full pay and was enforced as per written instruction to the Superintendent of Prison.

King, as of Tuesday, had not yet received communication to that effect, in keeping with the protocol governing matters of this nature.

It is King’s expectation that once vindicated by the court, he will return to work. However, he understands

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

Kenson King was not granted bail on his own recognizance when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett. (Photo Credit: Kenson King’s Facebook page) that if the matter goes against him, it will be up to the Public Service authorities to decide if he would be reinstated.

Meanwhile, a pre- action letter promised by one law firm acting on behalf of Vincentian Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, is yet to be received, King confirmed.

A defamation suit was threatened after King published a statement supposedly injurious to Dr. Gonsalves’ reputation. PM Gonsalves, who is also King’s constituency representative in the local Parliament, demanded a published apology along with half month of King’s salary as a Zero Hunger Trust Fund contribution — in lieu of seeking redress in Court. jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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