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FRIDAY,

MAY 11, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.19

www.thevincentian.com

POLICE CRACK 2016 HOMICIDE

by HAYDN HUGGINS

investigations are always ongoing into matters reported to THE RECENT BREAKTHROUGH in the police. investigations into the August 6, That’s according to Head of 2016 shooting death of 29-year- the Criminal Investigations old Alphanzo Davy of New Department (CID), Assistant Montrose, shows that Superintendent of Police (ASP)

Hesron Ballantyne. He expressed the sentiment during a brief interview with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday.

On Monday, Tevin Bobb, 24, of McKies Hill, was taken

Masman Collis ‘emotionally embarrassed’

by WILLIAM ’KOJAH’ ANTHONY KINGSLEY COLLIS, affectionately known as ‘Whiteman’, is one of this country’s leading cultural advocates and exponents. He is the founder and leader of the High Voltage Mas Production (Band).

Continued on Page 3.

Kingsley Collis, leader of High Voltage Mas Production, was something other than his usual self when he visited with THE VINCENTIAN last Monday.

The 40-ft container as it was positioned, last week Friday, in front of the High Voltage Mas Production camp, Bay Street.

EC$1.50

before the Serious Offences Court, charged with Davy’s murder.

Reports are that following the incident, Bobb had left the country for Grenada, where he was arrested and charged with marijuana possession. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment.

Upon completion of his sentence, he was deported, and returned to these shores earlier this year.

Bobb, who had been a person of interest to the police here in relation to Davy’s death, was subsequently taken into Tevin Bobb ran from the frying custody and charged. pan into the fire.

ASP Ballantyne told THE VINCENTIAN that in matters which persons Delpleche informed the court perceive as being unsolved, that the case file was not the police work tirelessly to ready. He indicated that the have them cracked, and investigator, Corporal Karla (assured) that charges would Tim of the Major Crime Unit be laid once there is evidence (MCU), was out of state and to support those charges. was due back in two weeks, He pointed out that the after which the file would police have cracked many have to go through the matters which had been under process. investigations for years, The matter was then including cases in which the adjourned to June 14. suspects had evaded this Davy had received gunshot jurisdiction. wounds to the back during an Bobb was not required to incident at Rose Place, plea when he made his Kingstown, around 7:45 p.m., appearance before Chief August 6, 2016. He was taken Magistrate Rechanne Browne to the Milton Cato Memorial on Monday.

Hospital where he succumbed Senior Prosecutor Adolphus to the injuries.

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2. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Youth

SVG scores big in IntÊl Dance Talent Pageant THE 5TH ANNUAL JUNIOR and Senior International Dance Talent Pageant was held in Toronto, on Sunday 29th April, 2018.

Eight-year-old J’Naya J’Naya Ryan, eight-yearsold but personifying a radiance befitting of a queen.

Ryan, granddaughter of Peter and Monica (Grant) England, participated and won the Jnr Division.

She represented her grandparents’ home country of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Her colourful costume reflecting the bright national colours of our St. Vincent

and the Grenadines, and designed by Vincentian Kim Defreitas, won the top prize in the national wear category. Her Royal Blue evening gown, worn with youthful elegance and style, also won in its class.

The Judges’ announcement was greeted with thunderous applause by the capacity

audience. It was indeed a proud Vincy moment.

Congratulations to J’Nya, her mom, Nadine, and to Kim Defreitas, whose other design worn by Miss Congo also won in the Senior Division.

(Submitted by Raymond England)

J’Naya Ryan captured the hearts of the audience when she strutted across the stage in her winning evening gown.

Displaying a costume that captured the impacting national colours of SVG.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 3.

News 3

Base duty on

trucks to be reduced THERE IS A REAL PROBLEM as it relates to the number of vehicles in the country, and this has not escaped the attention and acknowledgement of the government.

According to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, as he made a contribution in Parliament, Thursday 5th April, to the debate on the Finance Bill, 2018, which formalizes the proposed fiscal measures mentioned in the 2018 Budget, there are about 32,000 vehicles in the country — almost a 200% increase over the

number (11,000) when the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Administration took office back in 2001.

And in an effort to curb the rate of importation, especially of used vehicles, government proposed a ban on the importation of vehicles older than 12 years old, and an EC$1,000 surcharge on vehicles older than 4 years old, effective May 1 this year.

In so doing, government recognizes that these measures would result in an increase in the cost on

trucks in particular, which, the PM said, are engaged in real production as they are involved in the construction sector.

“But one of the things I know the Minister of Finance has been advocating, and we looked at the numbers, is now that you banned vehicles over 12 years and you have trucks under 12, they will become more expensive because the older the truck, the cheaper they are,” Gonsalves said.

“So for something so directly involved in

production, particularly construction, I thought the opposition would have come with the idea that we should reduce the extent of the base duty of trucks because you are facilitating production,” he continued.

It was noted that Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance, has already brought the proposal for the reduction of the base duty on trucks to Cabinet, and that the technical people were reviewing it. (DD)

Masman Collis ‘emotionally embarrassed’ Force Special Services Unit *SSU( were called in.

Usually of an effervescent Collis recounted being dragged persona, Collis was visibly into a Police Pick-up (truck) and distraught and showed signs of taken to the Central Police emotional hurt, when he visited Station where he was made to with THE VINCENTIAN on remain for some time in the Monday morning.

Traffic Department.

He was hurt, he said, because His incessant demands for a of what was meted out to him last reason for his detention, met with week Friday, and as a result, he threats of being placed in a cell, felt “emotionally abused and which, he admitted, simply served embarrassed.” to further raise his ire.

Collis’s woes stemmed from an After a short period of what incident outside the High Voltage appeared to be indecision with Mas Camp on Bay Street. The respect to what to do with him, small building that houses the Collis was allowed to leave the camp is sandwiched between the Police precincts. more expansive wholesale outlet Collis had tried desperately to and storage facility of Coreas explain to the police that he had Hazells Inc. and the building that gone through a similar “container houses Bickles and Western blockage” during the 2014 Union outlets. carnival period, which had Last Friday, Collis protested severely affected patronage of his against the placement of a band. container, supposedly assigned to A commitment had been made Coreas Hazells Inc., in front of his to avoid repeating the action Mas Camp. He attempted to during the carnival season. prevent that container from “The building is closed for most taking up that position when of the year. We don’t see why Traffic Police, curious about the anybody would want to interfere container in the road, interacted with our operations that last only with Collis. a few months,” Collis told THE The incident escalated and VINCENTIAN. members of the RSVG Police Continued on Page 3.

In the meantime, Collis remains uncertain about why last week Friday’s exchange of words had warranted “calling in of the SSU.” There was definitely no indication of “things getting out of hand,” and Collis is of the opinion that sometimes we have to be careful about how we deal with a situation, since we might react in a way that only serves to exacerbate that situation.

One person who had witnessed last Friday’s incident and who did not condone the behavior of some of the persons involved, raised with THE VINCENTIAN, what he perceived to be a disparity between the rights and privileges accorded some, and those allowed to others of lesser ilk. “’Whiteman’,” he said, ‘can’t fight the big business, but he will not give up trying”.

High Voltage Mas Production will present a ten-section band entitled ‘Exotic Beaches’ for Vincy Mas 2018.

STP PRESS: THE VINCENTIAN was informed that the container that had remained in front of the High Votlage Mas Production Camp, was removed during the week. A visit to the scene confirmed that.

A reduction in the base duty on trucks is proposed to help to keep down the cost of imported trucks.

Williams returns to BOSVG Editor’s Note: The following is a press release from the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS of the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ltd. is pleased to announce that Mr. Derry Williams has resumed the duties of the post of Managing Director effective May 11, 2018.

Mr. Williams is returning from a 2-year assignment at East Caribbean Financial Holding Company and Bank of St. Lucia Limited, where he was instrumental in the restructuring of the Group, and served as Managing Director until March 31, 2018.

Mr. Williams has in excess of 12 years executive leadership experience in commercial banking, and has also served as a non executive director on a number of Boards, locally and regionally.

At the same time, Mr. Bernard Hamilton, who served as Country Manager during Mr. Williams’ assignment, has proceeded on retirement leave. The Board of Directors, management and staff wish to thank Mr.

Derry Williams returns as Managing Director of BOSVG.

Bernard Hamilton retires after more than 15 years of service to the Bank/Financial services in SVG. Hamilton for his outstanding contribution to the Bank and the financial sector in St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the past 15 years.

V Former cop on trial for incest 4. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste is representing the former A FORMER POLICE officer, police officer. accused of having sexual Interestingly, attorney intercourse with his Grant Connell, who had daughter, and indecently also been on record to assaulting her, was up to represent the accused, press time yesterday indicated at the start of (Thursday) on trial at the the trial, that he wished High Court Criminal to be removed from the Assizes. record.

The former cop is Connell had facing charges of incest, represented the former unlawful sexually lawman at the intercourse with a girl Preliminary Inquiry (PI). under the age of 13, and Connell and Bacchusindecent assault, Baptiste have worked allegedly committed together on several high between 2007 and 2013. profile cases, including The accused was said the one involving the to be a constable, March 2006 murder of attached to the Special Glen Jackson, former Services Unit (SSU), Press Secretary to Prime when the offences were Minister Dr. Ralph allegedly committed.

Gonsalves. The accused The trial commenced Francis Williams was on Monday before Justice acquitted at the High Brian Cottle, with Crown Court in February 2008.

Counsel Karim Nelson When asked on leading the case for the Wednesday why he prosecution. withdrew his Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

representation in the sex case involving the former policeman, Connell told reporters, “There is nothing for me to comment on. BacchusBaptiste is doing the case.”

During an interview with THE VINCENTIAN in August 2016, then Commissioner of Police Renold Hadaway had revealed that a report was made to the police, in relation to the matter, in February 2013, but the accused had left the country shortly after.

Reports were that he left legally, and was residing in the United States legally.

Crown Counsel Karim Nelson had told THE VINCENTIAN then, that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had been in contact with the U.S authorities, in relation to

‘Practise self-control,’ Magistrate advised the matter, for some three years, and the state had made a request to the U.S government for the former cop’s extradition.

An extradition hearing was conducted in the United States, and the U.S government found that the requirements that were laid out in the extradition treaty between the United States and St.Vincent and the Grenadines were satisfied. The application was granted.

The former cop was denied bail on his return to this country, and remains in custody.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that up to Wednesday, seven prosecution witnesses were called, and three more were expected to be called before the prosecution closes its case.

MorgansÊ appeal filed A HOPEWELL FAMILY, convicted and sentenced at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, last week Monday, for using boiling water to inflict severe injuries, is seeking to have their convictions and sentences overturned.

Pastor Nigel Morgan, his wife Althia and 24year-old daughter Crystal, were each sentenced to four years in prison for inflicting grievous bodily harm on 38-year-old Caruth villager Cuthbert Victory at Hopewell on April 9, 2016.

Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, representing the Morgans, told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday that she had filed an appeal last Friday, May 4, against the convictions and sentences.

According to BacchusBaptiste, “The verdict is unsafe, and cannot be supported by evidence, and the sentences are excessive.”

A 22-YEAR-OLD Park Hill male who cursed Prosecutor Sergeant Delroy Tittle while he (Tittle) was executing his duties at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, has been advised to “practise self-control.”

The advice came from Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, before she passed sentence on Stanley Gumbs, who had pleaded guilty to using indecent language to the Prosecutor.

The Court heard that around 11 a.m. on May 3, Gumbs took the stand at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court where a number of charges were read to him. The Prosecutor made an application to the Court for him to be remanded until the next Court sitting; but before Stanley Gumbs got a Magistrate Bertie thorough lesson on selfPompey could say control from the Chief anything, Gumbs got Magistrate before she upset and cursed the passed judgement Prosecutor, telling him, against him.

“You get (expletive) bad minded.”

Gumbs told the Court he tries hard to behave himself, but admitted that he got upset.

“We have to practise self-control, even though we are upset”, Browne told Gumbs, who was without legal representation.

The Magistrate posited that lack of self-control could have long lasting damaging effects. She told Gumbs that the type of incidents in which he had been involved, showed that he was hot tempered.

“You are too hot tempered for a 22-year-old”, she told the young man, who had admitted earlier that he regretted what he did, and that, “Jail not a nice place.”

The Magistrate told him that if he uses that sort of language to the Court, he would use it to those close to him also.

“You need to get this temper under control,” the Magistrate warned before fining Gumbs $400 to be paid forthwith or one month in prison.

“You are young, you have many years ahead of you, God willing. You have to make use of them, you have to practise self-control,” were Browne’s last words of advice to Gumbs, who just bowed his head and left the dock quietly.

But speaking with THE VINCENTIAN, on Tuesday, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche who prosecuted the matter, maintained that Pastor Nigel Crystal Morgan Althia Morgan “The convictions Morgan are safe, and the sentences are outside when she heard she saw her parents reasonable, in the under attack. someone say “Bring de circumstances.”

The incident had ting, bring de oil”.

Senior Magistrate The Morgans are occurred close to the Rickie Burnett had Morgans’ home, and entitled to apply for bail, reserved judgement pending the outcome of Crystal said she was at following closing the time, in the kitchen the appeal. arguments by the Senior making tea. She looked Prosecutor and BacchusBaptiste on April 12 this year.

The Prosecution’s case was that Pastor Morgan at the Kingstown Magistrate’s and his wife held Victory KENT SHALLOW, 27-year-old resident of Magum, Overland, has Court after Shallow pleaded by each hand while their until July 16 to complete his guilty. daughter poured the payment of a $4,500 fine for Officers from the Rapid boiling water on him. possession of 2,303 grams of Response Unit (RRU) on mobile The Morgans, in their marijuana with intent to supply. patrol along the North Windward defence, accused Victory Shallow was on Monday district, May 5, nabbed the of being the aggressor, ordered to pay $1,000 forthwith Magum man at Point around 6:15 and claimed they acted or eight months in prison, and the a.m. on self-defence. Crystal remaining $3,500 by July 16 or A search conducted of told the Court she poured one year behind bars.

Shallow’s person revealed nothing the water on a backpack Chief Magistrate Rechanne illegal, but a further search of a Browne handed down the penalty Jamsport knapsack he was Victory had on him after

Ganja man busted at Point carrying, turned up three taped packages, a transparent plastic bag and a yellow plastic bag containing a black plastic bag. All were cut open revealing marijuana.

When cautioned, Shallow admitted, “Officer, ah weed, me going drop dem off for a man on a boat.”

Shallow had no previous convictions.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 5.

Regional - Focus

Grenadians to vote again on the CCJ try to convince the people of that country to support the Caribbean Court of Justice as their final Appellate Court.

When this choice was put to Grenadians in a referendum on November 24, 2016 in what was termed the CCJ Bill, only 43.3 % of them voted in favour of the CCJ, less than the requisite twothirds majority support.

Now, just short of two months since being Prime Minister Dr. Keith returned to government, Mitchell is determined Dr. Mitchell has to see certain announced that his constitutional changes government will be during this new term of taking a second shot at a office for his NNP. referendum, intending to get the support needed to (Photo Credit: Dallas make the Caribbean Weekly Court of Justice (CCJ) the island’s final court of DR. KEITH MITCHELL and appeal. his New National Party In fact, Dr Mitchell (NNP) government, which promised that this won all seats in the March (second) referendum will 13, 2018 general elections be held before the end of in Grenada, will once again the year.

“The CCJ is an important issue to take a second look at,” Mitchell said. “Hopefully we’ll have everyone playing a very united role in going forward, because if we do not work together, then clearly it’s not necessarily going to pass, and I think it would be a tragedy of justice for this country and for the Caribbean. …. Our jurists have served regional and international institutions with distinction, and it would be, to me, almost an insult to say to ourselves that we cannot be responsible for justice in our country.”

Mitchell’s New National Party had supported the 2016 Bill, but the main opposition National Democratic Congress opposed the reforms.

With that on his mind, Dr. Mitchell said that

leading up to this second referendum, he would play a much more active role than he did last time.

According to information coming out of Grenada, the referendum promised before year’s end, will include not only a vote on the CCJ, but also on : the creation of an Elections and Boundaries Commission to replace the Constituency Boundaries Commission and the Supervisor of Elections; allowing the leader of the party with the most votes to be appointed Leader of the Opposition and to sit in the House of Representatives if the second-placed party fails to win a seat in a general election; introducing fixed dates for elections, with the caveat that a vote of no confidence may trigger an early election;

SPICEMAS: More than a social event He, however, lamented that from 10 contributors that did not SpiceMas brings millions of sponsor in the previous year. dollars into the economy annually, Online Pay for View viewership yet it is perceived as simply a went up by 21%, from 1896 social celebration. purchases to 2296, exceeding the He said the corporation fully projected 15% increase and recognizes the business that could indicting growing interest among be generated by the designers, the Grenadian Diaspora. craft persons, singers, All prize monies were paid as songwriters, costume builders, promised, and the Corporation makeup artists and musicians, to was able to honour an outstanding name a few, but he is not sure if debt in excess of $100,000.

THE 2108 they recognize it themselves.

SpiceMas continues to be an edition of And he emphasised that avenue of income for Vincentian Grenada’s SpiceMas, set to climax SpiceMas “is an expression of our mas designers and builders.

August 13 and 14, was launched History, our Culture on Saturday 14th April. and our Heritage,” According to Kirk Seetahal, stressing that it pays Chief Executive Officer of respect to the diversity SpiceMas Corporation, Spicemas and or creativity 2018 should be another successful because it places value carnival event. added on the skills of In an interview since the many talented youths. launch, with the Informer Seetahal was pleased Newspaper, Seetahal underscored to give some indication that SpiceMas was Grenada’s about the state of premier cultural festival, and SpiceMas 2017. reiterated that it was without a SpiceMas 2017, he doubt an important event, which said, showed a gate continues to gain regional and receipt increase of 19% indeed international significance. over 2016 - $780,221 to He called on policy not to $927,600. — 1% short of overlook the economic significance the projected 20%. of carnival to local economies and Vending income businesses. increased by 54% “SpiceMas is not just a compared to 2016, celebration of heritage but a major which represented a contributor to economic 134% when compared development and as such, much to 2015. needs to be done to recognize Sponsorship SpiceMas not just as a socioimproved marginally by cultural event, but also as an 4%., though the important economic activity,” Corporation was able to SpiceMas was launched some four months Seetahal told the Informer. attract sponsorship before its scheduled climax.

Kirk Seetahal, CEO of SpiceMas Corporation, is credited with turning around the fortunes of the Corporation and for lifting the attractiveness of the festival.

The CCJ was established on April 16, 2005 and is headquartered in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. (Photo Credit: Caribbean 360) changing the official name of the State of Grenada to Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique; expanding the list of fundamental rights and freedoms; and limiting the Prime Minister to three consecutive terms in

office.

It will not include, as the original referendum (2016) did, a vote on a code of conduct for public officials, and swearing allegiance to the country rather than the Queen.

(Caribbean 360, Grenada Informer)

Judge calls for Sex Offender Register MADAM JUSTICE Paula Gilford, a senior High Court judge in Grenada, is calling on the authorities to introduce a Sex Offenders Register to deal with an increase in the number of sex related offenses making their way before the court.

The Lady Justice made the call while delivering a sixtynine year judgment at the #2 High Court on Monday on a fifty-nine-year-old man, after he pleaded guilty to six out of Justice Paula eight counts of sex related Gilford, a highly offenses, committed against respected judge three of his daughters, all in Grenada, is the under the age of fifteen. most recent jurist According to information emanating from the court, the to raise the issue of the need for incident spanned a period of sex offenders three years dating back to 2014 and included four counts registers in the Caribbean. of indecent assault and two counts of attempted incest.

In delivering her judgment, Justice Gilford reminded the convicted man that, having been placed in a position of trust, he betrayed the trust of his children rather than being there for them.

He failed them and therefore, apart from protecting the now victim in this incident, society also needs to be protected.

Judge Gilford further reminded the fifty-nineyear-old that the court holds the view that those sexual acts against young children should be met with serious punishment.

While advocating for civil society to get involved in dealing with the root cause of this problem, judge Gilford said the introduction of a sex register would act as a deterrent, since potential offenders would now know that their action would become part of the public record. She further calls on members of the public to report these incidents, since, according to her, as adults, one has a responsibility to protect the children.

The convicted fifty-nine-year-old whose name and photograph the media was asked not to publish, as a means of safeguarding the victims in this case from further psychological and emotional trauma.

Given that some of the sentences would run concurrent to each other, and others consecutive, the convicted man is expected to spend a maximum 39 years and 3 months in prison.

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6. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Parliament

Senator: ÂGovÊt engaging in Âclimate change prostitutionÊ OPPOSITION Senator, Kay Bacchus-Baptiste has accused the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Administration of engaging in ‘climate change prostitution’.

She did so during

Opposition Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste accused the government of using the climate change bandwagon as a chance to wring money out of tax payers.

contribution to the parliamentary debate, May 3, on the Climate Resilience Levy Bill, which would allow for the imposition of a levy on hotel rooms that are occupied.

The Bill allows for an EC$8.00 tax to be paid per night by transient (overnight) visitors, per room occupied for not more than 30 days.

The monies collected will go into the

prostitutes are persons or countries who do not genuinely care about the phenomena of climate change; they do not understand the issues or even care to use the climate change momentum,” she said.

Rather, climate change prostitutes used the momentum to leverage money, Bacchus-Baptiste continued, and they will Climate Change frame every project Prostitute around climate change for a chance of wringing However, Bacchusmoney out of tax payers.

Baptiste, in objecting to “We don’t see any the proposed levy, went initiative to deal with on to describe what a reasons for the unusual climate change prostitute floods, destruction of was. bridges — how can raising “Climate change a tax levy on a room alleviate the problem if Minister of Finance we do not go to the root Camillo Gonsalves said of the problem? Is it he didn’t think visitors really genuine?” she would object to paying questioned. the levy.

The opposition senator further argued that the ULP had a poor record of accountability.

“How do we know what this money is to be spent on and how will it even assist the problem of climate change?” she asked.

Contingency Fund which was established in 2015

by Government, as a source that would provide the means to respond more readily in times of disasters.

The Fund was originally captialised, and continues to be funded — from a 1% increase on the rate of the VAT, increasing that rate from 15% to 16%.

Government serious

about climate change But Parliamentary Representative for South Central Windward Saboto Caesar, in his contribution, said that the issue of climate change was not one to be taken lightly.

“Climate change goes to our existence as human beings,” Caesar said.

He referred to a comment made by the Leader of the Opposition, Dr Godwin Friday who said that rain has been coming since he was a little boy, which he (Caesar) said suggested that the opposition did not take the issue of climate change seriously.

He agreed that government needed to take issues relating to climate change seriously.

“When I heard the senator refer to the issue of climate change prostitution, I want to say to persons listening, do not be discouraged by anyone who accuses you of being engaged in climate change prostitution, because you are discussing a topic that can save the lives of many.”

Government MP Saboto Caesar saw the levy as another step by government in its ongoing effort to ensure that it was ready for any eventuality.

Caesar further contended that young people were listening and needed to understand the seriousness and reality of climate change.

In summary, he said, the levy was the government’s way of ensuring that “this people-centred government is ready for any eventuality.”

No objection by tourist In his wrapping up on the debate, Minister of Finance Camillo Gonsalves, who had tabled the Bill, reminded the Parliament that tourism, the movement of people into a country, has an environmental cost.

On the basis of what he alluded to as the heightened awareness of tourists who come to this country, Minister Gonsalves expressed an opinion that he didn’t think they would object to a measure, a levy, aimed at protecting the fragile environment of an island state like SVG. And all in all, he saw the Climate Resilience Levy Bill Levy of setting government on a footing which would allow it to better respond in times of disaster, not least in the aftermath of destruction and displacement.

The Climate Resilience Levy Bill was passed during the May 4 sitting of Parliament, and will become effective from June 01, 2018. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 7.

Fashion

Jeremy Payne exhibits at Buckingham Palace IN FEBRUARY of 2018 when, for the very first time, local fashion designer Jeremy Payne of the brand ‘Fashion is Payne’ touched down in London, his life was about to change. Jeremy had been invited by Eco-Age to participate in a new and revolutionary event dubbed the ‘Commonwealth Fashion Exchange’ (CFE).

Having already created a piece for this auspicious

Jeremy Payne at Buckingham Palace.

Meeting in London this April.” Each participant was specifically selected.

Their participation afforded the celebration of “creativity, sustainable production and manufacturing, trade links and ethical supply chains across the fashion industry, from business and design to textile and fabric design and manufacturing”.

A statement made by Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Right Honourable Patricia Scotland QC, further explains, “The modern Commonwealth is young and creative. It represents a third of the world’s population, 60% of whom are under the age of 30. So fashion, alongside music and sport, represents a Aims of the CFE powerful common language and platform The Commonwealth through which to Fashion Exchange, which influence young people was held in February, around key issues. The 2018, was set to coincide Fashion Exchange has with the London Fashion collaboration and Week. According to Eco- partnership at its heart, Age, the exchange aimed forging new networks “to create partnerships and making the between established and Commonwealth Summit emerging talent from themes of prosperity, across the 53-member sustainability and countries, in the lead up fairness very real and to the Commonwealth tangible.” Additionally, Heads of Government the CFE will provide global-audience access to the looks created and the stories of collaborations through a dedicated platform on Google Arts and Culture.

event, the first thing on his agenda upon his arrival, was to make himself ready to attend the opening which was held at Buckingham Palace.

For ten days, the local designer was completely awed. The impressions of the magnitude of his involvement began with the opening ceremony.

He explained, “It was great to be in the same room as HRH Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge; and HRH Sophie, Countess of Wessex, who were the cohosts. HRH Princess Beatrice of York, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and Anna Wintour, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue magazine were also there, among so many others.”

Jeremy’s creation

A model dons Jeremy’s eco-dress that was displayed at Buckingham Place.

In keeping with the objective of the initiative, Jeremy created a dress of hemp organic cotton spandex jersey, a fabric that fits perfectly into our tropical climate. He firstly tie-dyed the fabric using organic turmeric, locally grown and refined and called ‘saffron’. This produced a beautiful yellow-gold tinge.

Secondly, he handpainted symbols of our petroglyphs found in different locations around St. Vincent and on Bequia. He gave his reasoning for this as, “These carvings help to connect us to our local indigenous ancestors who created them.” Finally, to complete his look, Jeremy collaborated with St. Lucian jewelry

designer, Nadia Jabour to create a necklace and hand-piece made from copper wire and carved coconut shells. This display stood proudly and prominently at Buckingham Palace for the duration of the exhibition, showcasing not only Jeremy Payne and ‘Fashion Is PAYNE’, but also St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Jeremy Payne is a young multidisciplinary artist and designer. His Fine Arts roots are evident in his paintings and mixed media work.

He started designing in 2008, and by 2011 his ‘Fashion Is PAYNE’ was established as a womenswear and menswear brand, creating clothing and accessories geared towards the urbanislander. The ‘PAYNE’ aesthetic explores the

emotions and lifestyles of the bustling city and the exotic tropics. It produces clean, contemporary cuts with attention to detail and surface embellishments, contrasted with a laid-back simplicity and comfort.

Through his Buckingham Palace Commonwealth Fashion Exchange experience, Jeremy Payne is now prominently poised to pursue even greater avenues Jeremy’s creation with for his talents. accessories on display at Buckingham Palace.

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8. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 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

‘Caribbean Pete’: We missed out again FROM THE INCEPTION of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), the status of national icon – of a person who would have been assessed to have contributed selflessly to the national landscape – was redefined.

This redefinition was made manifest when the ULP government, with little regard for the partiality and bias involved in the decision, accorded Michael Hamlett, a failed politician if the result of a general election is the yardstick by which this is assessed, a full state funeral, thereby involving the state, its institutions and people, in paying homage to a party supporter.

Since we are wont to be reverent about our dealings with death, the according of this state funeral was treated rather lightly, and may have fallen into that ill-conceived designation of a ‘grace period’ awarded to incoming governments.

It happened so quickly that the impact of it becoming the norm passed us by without smell.

Since Hamlett’s state funeral, there have been no dearth of state funerals — an activity of national expense made on our behalf without provision for dissent. The majority of those state funerals have been for politicians who have passed through the chambers of parliament here, and whose deaths have whitewashed their examination papers with A+ grades. All is forgiven; all is good with the Lord.

The parameters within which the accordance of state recognition has been set, appear to have been constricted to one straight line criterion — politics — removing any assessment of the degree to which, if at all, those persons had positive, telling impacts on the lives of Vincentians for whom they professed to labour.

Not that some of these ‘politicians’ were not deserving of the recognition accorded them by government — by extension the state. But when the state apparatus is made to pay homage in a willy nilly, partisan manner, it makes a fool of a national gesture.

The passing of Olsen ‘Caribbean Pete’ Peters, teacher, musician, newspaper columnist, recipient of a Queen’s Award and maybe a few other ceremonials rewards, brought the bias and ill-conceived interpretation of who should be accorded national iconic status into focus.

Notwithstanding whatever prescribed time and sentiments might have been accorded by this country’s parliament, there was a shameful shortfall in a genuine state-led recognition of a man who, in any other

part of the world, would have long been designated a cultural icon.

Are we to assume that ‘Caribbean Pete’s’ unassuming, some say laidback, inconspicuous nature, was his undoing?

That he lacked profile, or simply didn’t bunch with the right crowd?

Or is this shortfall a Freudian slip which makes bold that the sitting government of SVG and those who jump readily to its defence, simply do not grasp what impacting the cultural landscape of a nation (of people) truly means?

‘Caribbean Pete’s contribution to the calypso art form in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is perhaps equaled only by that of Frankie Mc Intosh. But while Mc Intosh had the opportunities to impact through recordings and was responsible moreso for rhythmic and musical innovations that characterized the calypso of the late 1970s and well into the early 21sty century, ‘Caribbean Pete’ worked steadfastly and selflessly with home grown and home based calypsonians - the salt of the earth, the true, true exponents of the art form who assumed with little national support a battle against a raging effort to beat the art form into the ground, with oftentimes meaningless combinations of innuendos and beats, the latter with no need for transcription on to musical sheets.

‘Caribbean Pete’ joined and stayed with that battle to the very end of his days. Many who today stand firm in that arena have much to thank him for — not only for what they can do for themselves today in terms of turning out a calypso, but more importantly and far reaching for their understanding of the reach and power of the art form to which they are committed.

Funny, that is the same art form which has had to withstand a recent effort by the state apparatus and its attachments, to curtail its influence and free-spirted nature — clear proof that politicians, especially those who sit in authority, know full well the extent to which the calypso has been used, and can be used, to influence the formation of mindsets, even biases on the one hand, and positive, meaningful change on the other.

Funny therefore, that those who lead the state can recognize the power of the art form, but not the custodians, like ‘Caribbean Pete’, who avail their lives to the labour that ensures that art form’s survival.

What a state!!!! RIP, Petey.

In the departure lounge of the AIA AGAIN, I HAVE FLUNKED in my promise somewhat of following up with a series of articles on the modern history of our sports, to cool down the political temperature which is raging and threatening to get out of hand.

Still, this column never intended to act as a decoy from dealing with the main issues up front. So, here is a compromise: treat with innocuous events such as the steady passing of some good folk, then switch to an aspect, staying out of the controversial issue pending the return, hopefully, of my eye-sight which remains artificially defective. And my style is not to comment seriously on matters where I am not able to pore over them in earnest to come to a rational decision.

But I will be more inclusive in a short while.

First of all, there is a spill-over of last week’s submission on Netball. I say happy birthday to Gailene Windsor, one of the stars of yesteryear and ageless heart throb of my generation. Never mind her total commitment to the ULP. Next, in the autumn of my years, I can be forgiven of failing to mention the two netball clashes that almost knocked me out. Our first defeat of the champion Trinidad side in Grenada in 1957. The BGS Cadet Corps was then camping at Grand Anse, and I as leader along with one or two NCOs were given the privilege by Cadet Master “Jonas” Moore to witness that historic event.

And in 1960 at Victoria Park, my eyes were blessed with the glorious sight of our local team defeating Jamaica whither I proudly went to UWI months after our conquest.

I sympathize with Arnhim Eustace who recently observed that in the last two months he has attended more funerals than in any other period in his life. I have had the same experience.

I begin at my own beginning. Mona Murray taught me how to scratch figures and make images on my SLATE while I attended Miss Patrick’s School, aged about three years old, 77 years ago! The “school” was sited at Bottom Town between Back and Middle Street on the Southern side of the river.

Everybody can recall Mona’s son “Tweety Spence”, a national footballer of class, another son a penetrative leftarm spin-bowler of Eagles of which I was the skipper. And of course, daughter —calypsonian “Little Bit” who

figures much more at Carnival. We salute Mona Murray whose family in small but vital ways contributed much to our social development.

Then there are two neighbours at Villa, one a struggling Black family of Findlays, the other a White privileged family of former land gentry of the Barnards. I loved and admire them both. Marguerita “Tanty Mag” Findlay and Susan Sinson nee Barnard have both left us. Both lived a good and useful life in SVG as human beings. I visited Susan on several occasions. She was very much a Vincentian citizen, caring, generous, sports-loving and full of mirth.

Stuart Nanton, of blessed memory, told me that he was once the captain of a tennis team to St. Lucia that included our Champion lady Susan. One night, Susan summoned Stuart to her room and complained, “As captain, you undertook to see about us. I miss my husband. Aren’t you doing something about it?” That was Susan in the flesh.

The Thompson Home is a favourite haunt. I will miss two residents Marian Woods, a charming client from Richland Park. On my last visit to her she requested that I take her, for a drive, which I could not deliver. I had to give up driving, and Mrs. Woods was restricted. I trust that she enjoys her Heavenward trip by chariot.

Then, there was Granny Rose, of whom so many persons justifiably say so many good and positive things. I proudly recall a political meeting in 1979 at Upper Edinboro when I was the candidate for the UPM. There were on the platform Renwick to the left of me and Granny Rose to my right as we all invited the people to choose the “upfull’ party for real change! It was truly a momentous and historic occasion when hope flickered, and disappeared from grasping hands.

I say a personal au revoir to a dear friend, Molly Hull of Cane Hall. A fond farewell to Isola Williams nee Carr whose society of about four sisters I enjoyed, Melanie, Esther, Shirley and Cynthia, with special regards to Rickey Burnett, son-in-law.

Finally, I wrap up with cricket by saluting fellow analyst and critic Robert Etienne and especially “Boop”, a national player whose criticisms of me as a selector I absorbed in good spirits.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 9.

Letters

Politicians don’t want to deal with crime I WONDER if the leaders of the two main political parties in SVG taking note of what’s happening on the international scene. I mean, have they noticed that North Korea and South Korea leaders have taken a big step towards peace and who knows, unity?

I say that to ask, why can’t our political leaders and parties come together as one to fight the crime here?

Instead of that, each party blames

the other for creating the ground that is breeding the crime in our country.

It seems to me that they enjoy blaming one another and looking for something to hold against each other, as they keep their eyes on the next election, rather that come together and focus their eyes on the crime that is affecting the same people who they expect to vote for them.

I am not going to blame one party or both for that matter for the crime

that is bringing fear across the land.

But I will blame the parties and their leaders for not having the will to deal with the crime situation as a united force. They have failed the people, for instead of bringing the people together on the issue of crime, they further divided them.

I wonder if our politicians really have a genuine desire to see the end of crime or even to reduce it.

We cannot fight crime as a divided

,people and it seems we have to find new leadership, not political leadership, that would bring the people together to fight crime. And if it means that when the people unite to fight crime, and those political parties who have done nothing, get in the way and they have to be pushed aside, then so be it.

Public Servant

The Commonwealth issue I want to add my two bits in tribute to Olsen ‘Petey’ Peters AFTER READING your coverage on the recent visit by her H.E. Baroness Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary General, I revisited your Editorial of the previous week and tried to connect the dots.

On one hand, your Editorial veered towards a position that spoke to our Government as having intentionally stayed far away from the corridors of the

Commonwealth and moreso, the windows of assistance opened by that institution to its members, especially the smaller member states.

On the other hand, as per Baroness Scotland, she almost sounded apologetically as she stopped short of agreeing with your position, purporting instead that the small member states of the Commonwealth lacked the requisite expertise for preparing

applications for assistance.

Don’t know if I got it correct, but nonetheless, accept my commendation for not talking out of turn. In fact, it appears to me, a regular reader of your editorial column, that THE VINCENTIAN has an outstanding record of not talking after the fact.

Stanley J. East St. George

A real Education Revolution is needed I PRESENT a few thoughts on our education system — our education revolution: “Our education system should focus on the development of individuals who: leverage their specialized knowledge to dream, create, make, explore, learn and to promote entrepreneurial endeavours; understand and enjoy the process as much as the final outcome, without

fearing the potential failures or mistakes that the journey might include.

“Unfortunately, our school system builds and encourages cultures of obedience, enforced compliance and complacency thereby stifling our students’ ability and preparedness to think for themselves; to think openly, ask questions, challenge the status quo, suggest the ‘impossible’. The system does not encourage our students to think outside the box; to do so, the system says, is to be crazy.

“The top down teacher-student model of learning does not maximise learning, as it devours curiosity and eliminates intrinsic motivation. We need to embrace flat horizontal and distributed approaches to learning, including peer learning and peer teaching, and empower students to realize the authentic practice of these models.

“Educators must create space to allow students to determine if and when to jump off the cliff…. Failing is a natural part of learning.”

Kadmiel McFee

MY FIRST recollection of ‘Petey’ was when he played with the Blue Rhythm Orchestra. I remember him out front with his trumpet alongside people like Syl and Gordon Mc Intosh on sax.

I also remember him playing with a number of bands which backed up calypsonians in the 1970s through to the 1980s. As a matter of fact, he was still active — playing with X-A-Dus when I left home.

The thing I remember most about ‘Petey’ is the role he played in the development of the skill and craft of the calypsonians. He not only arranged for most of them, but he offered advice on writing and so forth. I don’t think I ever heard about ‘Petey’ turning back a request from a calypsonian. As a matter of fact, he must have gone to the Great Beyond with many a

calypsonian owing him for the arrangements to their songs. And how much so? May be a $75.00 not a $200.00 like what they charge today.

And when you got an arrangement from ‘Petey’, it could stand up anywhere in the world.

Ask the fellows who went overseas to sing in the 70s and 80s.

There is no doubt that Olsen Peters played an integral role in the development of the calypso art form in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I would go as far as to say, that no one, with the exception of Frankie Mc Intosh, would have contributed as much to the advancement and acceptance of Vincy Music across the world.

May Olsen Peters rest peacefully in the hands of his Lord.

Garnet. N.Y.

FLOW internet or slow internet?

I DON’T KNOW how many FLOW internet users know about “latency”, but I’d like to give a quick lesson. When you pay for “speed”, you are paying for the time it takes for “Upload” and “Download” time. Latency is the time it takes for your keyboard command, once you are connected to the Internet, to actually take effect. There is an acceptable level, the lower the number, the better, the higher the number, the slower your commands are to take effect.

Right now, on my computer, with my FLOW Internet connection, my latency is three times slower than what the acceptable standard is.

Someone involved at the Government level of the telecommunications authority might be concerned, and be asking FLOW why!

You can check your “speed” online at various sites, but only a few will tell you your “latency”. I can only hope that many of your readers will check theirs, and that some of them will have a better latency than I do.

Congrats, Girls’ High School CONGRATULATIONS to the Girls’ High School (GHS) for attaining 107 years of existence on May 8, 2018, having started on May 8, 1911.

Thanks to this outstanding institution which has done a wonderful job in fostering excellence in academia, maintaining opportunities for lifelong friendships, and inculcating positive enduring values in its students.

In 1938, eighty years ago, the first Island Scholarship winner by a student from the Girls’ High School was Marcelle DeFreitas.

This milestone was an inspiration to other students who have gone on to be nation builders in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and beyond.

Our thanks to all of the teachers, other employees and contacts at the school who have done so much for us all through the years. We love you and wish everyone at GHS all the best in the future. Keep up the good work.

Cheryl Phills King

Geekman

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10. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The NDP continues with its hypocrisy and disinformation

“DISINFORMATION IS DISTINGUISHED from misinformation in that it is intentionally fraudulent.” Ellen P. Lacter

Introduction In October 2016, lawyer, Kay Bacchus Baptiste, current NDP Senator, wrote a letter to Sir Louis Straker demanding that he provide evidence that he has renounced his U.S. citizenship in nine days or resign, claiming that he was in breach of Section 26(1) of the Constitution.

Section 26 (1) states that “No person shall be qualified to be elected or appointed as a representative or senator if he is, by virtue of his own act under acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state”.

Presumably, this would have resulted in him being disqualified to be a member of parliament. She further lamented in her letter to Sir Louis Straker, that “This is a very public issue since you have and are still being paid by the people as a validly elected Minister of Parliament.

We anticipate your prudent and responsible action. The constituency of Central Leeward rightfully demands to know this.” Later, it was revealed publicly that Sir Louis Straker, the Deputy Prime Minister, renounced his US citizenship on February 1st, 1994, disproving the false claims by some mendacious, Janus-faced individuals, especially from the NDP hierarchy.

This brings us to the highly controversial and legally contentious issue, where claims are being made, suggesting that Dr Lorraine Friday, President of the NDP and Opposition Leader, has a Canadian passport and is therefore entitled to certain rights and privileges. This, in our view, is one that merits serious discussion, one based on principle and the other on legality, as Dr Friday is aspiring to serve in the highest office and we cannot allow the possibility of some with allegiance to two States, influencing policy and laws affecting our daily lives.

Matter of Principle The book of Matthew, Chapter 6 and Verse 24, sums it up very well, in that “no man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other.”

Evidently, you cannot want to serve the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines while also pledging your allegiance to another State. It is either one, or the other. While vying for the highest office in the land, it is of paramount importance that you have “complete allegiance” to the State and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, because to do otherwise, will certainly be a conflict of interest and could create national security concerns. Imagine if there is a diplomatic breakdown or a trade issue between Canada and SVG and we have a Prime Minister who also is Canadian citizen. Whose interest will they support and defend?

The Legal issue In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, our Constitution, allows for Commonwealth citizens, over twentyone years and residing in SVG for a specified time before nomination day, to qualify to sit in Parliament under Section 25. Also, Section 26 disqualifies members to sit as a member of parliament as mentioned in the Introduction.

Similarly, in Australia, another Commonwealth state, whose laws are similar to those of SVG, and where

since Section 34 of Australia is similar to Section 25 of SVG, a High Court ruling was made in Re Canavan [2017] HCA 45 ( the “Citizenship Seven Case”), questioning of the eligibility/ qualification of seven parliamentarians to sit as MP’s.

It was decided that five of the seven, who held dual citizenship, being citizens of other Commonwealth states such as United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand, were disqualified to sit as Members of Parliament, having breached Section 44 of the Australian Law. The key issue here, is that any member who “is under any acknowledgment of allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power or is a subject or a citizen or entitled to the rights or privileges of a subject or a citizen of a foreign power,” is disqualified. The Judges came to such a decision after looking at the precedent cases of Sykes v Cleary 1992 and Sue v Hill 1999, where they were of the opinion that the members were disqualified, regardless of whether they knew of the citizenship or engaged in any voluntary act of acquisition of such citizenship and that to be deemed eligible, that they must have taken all the necessary steps before nomination, to renounce their citizenship.

The Hypocrisy Therefore, given that this is within the Commonwealth, this case can be used persuasively in guiding us in any legal matter, to ascertain whether Dr Friday is eligible to sit as a member, given the fact that he holds a Canadian passport, which also grants him certain rights and privileges as a Canadian citizen. Clearly, if he acquired citizenship voluntarily, based on the ruling in Australia, a reasonable man will suggest he is in breach of the law.

The NDP was quick to harass and spread innuendos on Sir Louis Straker, with claims that he was a US citizen, which was proven a lie.

However, while genuine questions can be asked of Dr Godwin Friday to do the right and principled thing, the NDP is stating that the ULP, is using this issue to distract the public. Did persons like Senator Kay Bacchus Baptiste and other NDP members say that they were distracting the people when she wrote the letter to Sir Louis Straker to renounce and resign?

Conclusion The NDP, on one hand, tried to spread disinformation on the ULP and Sir Louis Straker while seeking to downplay and ignore a grave concern and issue, as to whether their Leader, Dr Friday has breached our laws and lacks principle in putting St. Vincent and the Grenadines first, and not another foreign entity.

The NDP spin doctors, will continue to spread disinformation on this and other issues including the AG’s reference bill, but they will not succeed. So, Dr Friday should heed the words used by Senator Kay Bacchus to Sir Louis Straker, that “this is a very public issue since you have and are still being paid by the people as a validly elected Minister of Parliament. We anticipate your prudent and responsible action. The constituency of Northern Grenadines rightfully demands to know this.”

Working together with our youth THE DAWN of the 21st century should have been a time of great expectations for this country’s youth. But their reality over the past seventeen (17) years has been anything but misguided. The ineffective policies that have been pursued by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime have damaged the economic prospects of the country and have provided not a field of dreams, but a stark landscape of rising unemployment, hopelessness and apathy among our young people. The New Democratic Party (NDP) has a better way.

The ULP regime has deceived the youth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They were promised thousands of jobs, and seventeen (17) years after the ULP gained power, the situation remains the same. As you traverse this country, the number of young people who are on the ‘block’, i.e. unemployed, is astonishing. As a matter of fact, the IMF report of 2017 stated that youth unemployment was 46%. The young people are crying out for jobs, jobs, and more jobs. And the illegitimate ULP regime cannot and will not create employment for these young people; neither are they able to stimulate the private sector to assist in job creation.

Because of the high rate of unemployment and the lack a meaningful sport development programme for the youth, some of them are caught in criminal activities.

The NDP is deeply concerned about the current state of affairs of the youth. However, the NDP offers hope to the youth. The party has developed programmes and policies to create jobs and to exploit the talent and abilities which these young people possess. We see the talent and energy of the country’s youth as pivotal in the effort to move our beloved country forward. In diverse areas across the board, the NDP will provide the youth with the opportunities, support and facilities they need to succeed and to help build a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The NDP will increase and diversify the scholarship programme.

The existing scholarship programme will be improved to offer a wider variety of opportunities for young people to access higher education in properly accredited universities and colleges worldwide. Diverse scholarships will be sourced to encouraged persons into nontraditional education including opportunities for young people in culture, music and sports. Also, design and implement non - academic incentive programmes for youth. The NDP believes that young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must be encouraged to believe in their own self- worth. With this in mind, the NDP will organize targeted incentive programmes to encourage our youths in the many areas of non-academic achievements.

We will also implement and promote a wide-ranging suite of awards for youth achievement. The NDP will encourage youth achievement in all areas by promoting a wide-ranging suite of national, regional and international awards that will inspire and motivate our youth. These include: the National Environment Youth Award - a new national programme that will recognize young people across St. Vincent and the Grenadines for projects and activities that demonstrate their commitment to the environment. The Youth Minister’s

Positive Image Awards - a new programme that will be run by the minister responsible for youth, to recognize the many people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines who are working towards promoting a more positive image of young people within their schools and communities; the International Awards for Youth - an internationally-sponsored award for young people between the ages of 14 and 25 years; and the Wave Makers a programme to be administered through the Youth Department that will celebrate the innovative and creative excellence of young people who have done something fantastic to change their lives and the lives of others.

In addition, we will work to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders into society. An unfortunate mistake made by a young person should not be a life sentence that condemns him or her to hopelessness.

Under a new programme to be developed by the NDP, young offenders will be offered second chances through targeted programmes of technical and vocational training, counselling and rehabilitation, and tackle the problem of street children at the source. The NDP will work to improve the ability of the Social Welfare, Liberty Lodge Boys’ Training Centre and the Family Courts systems to identify and intervene to assist children and youth who are at risk, before their situations become hopeless; and provide increased support for youth through the Social and Spiritual Redemption Charter, every properly constituted youth organization (Girl Guides, Boys Brigade, etc.) will be given financial and other material support and will be able to be more effective at diverting the energies of youth into productive areas.

Moreover, the NDP will spearhead the formation of youth committees to be attached to each ministry. These committees will be the human interface for two-way exchange of information between the ministry and the youth, and will ensure that the ideas, opinions and viewpoints of our young people are incorporated into policy-making. The NDP government will encourage and support the formation of a youth parliament where young people with an interest in politics can develop their understanding of the practice and methods of the parliamentary system.

The mentorship and career guidance programme will be re-established with a view to bonding university students to giving back to all secondary schools upon completion of their studies, by way of lectures, mentoring and other tangible ways of contributing to the education of young students. And encourage annual youth-inspired, arts and culture events.

We will also improve and expand skills training by utilizing the various resource, multipurpose and community centres around St. Vincent and the Grenadines. And support music education in schools from the earliest level with a view to establishing a Youth Orchestra and permanent music programme in schools. The NDP has a better way, and will make St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all our youth.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 11.

Views

No compromise on principles

“Tragedy in life normally comes with betrayal and compromise, and trading on your integrity and not having dignity in life. That’s really where failure comes.” Thomas William Cochrane (born 1953).

THE DESIRE TO “GET AHEAD IN LIFE” can lure the ill-disciplined to walk the moral low road; to compromise their principles, with the expectation that they will secure a job, get a scholarship, accumulate wealth, obtain or retain power, and so on. There are vast numbers of temptations that will lure the unsuspecting and gullible to abandon honesty and integrity, in pursuit of what they rationalise to be the “successes of life”. In so many cases, the journey to “the dark side” (of dishonesty and immorality) leads to the dungeon called “Tragedy”.

That dungeon called “Tragedy” is a dreary place. It is patrolled by twin guards called “Guilt” and “Regret”.

These often appear unannounced and at the lest convenient times. They appear to enjoy rattling the cages and, as happens so very often, make sleep and/or relaxation difficult.

Many occupants wish that they could go back in time and undo their errors and foibles. But, alas, time travel is not possible. So many then desire to send messages to their family, friends, and co-workers to beckon them not to do anything that would result in their making similar mistakes by compromising on principles. It is better to do the right thing even if it means that their journey to success is longer and/or more challenging. The journey is just as valuable as the end result. The discipline and selfsacrifice magnify the reward.

The desire to share thoughts on principles emerged during a discussion with a young adult who was seeking to convince me that it is okay to compromise principles in order to “get ahead in life”. The conversation arose as we were discussing the temptation to give and accept bribes in an effort to secure business contracts. He sought to rationalise his position by indicating that “everyone else is doing it”. In his mind, he needed to engage in such activities in order to keep up with the competition. However, we should understand that we should never compromise our principles because others have done so. Rationalising such behaviours creates a momentum along the downward slippery slope of dishonesty and immorality. We then ask some most important questions: Can we justify wrong by calling it right? Where will it end? How will it end? Who else (besides the perpetrator) will get hurt? How extensive will be the damage? When faced with such challenges and temptations (to compromise principles,) we need to pause long enough to objectively reflect on such questions. In responding to this young, intelligent businessman, I prompted him to consider if he would be able to hold his head high and walk with pride, should his transaction be published on the front page of the local newspaper. It was at this point that he went silent. I trust that our conversation resulted in him appreciating that there should be no compromise on principles.

There are too many examples of individuals (including young, ambitious persons) who fall prey to the lure of speedy gain through

compromising principles. Persons who desire to gain a scholarship or secure employment in a barter for their purity. Individuals who will cheat on an examination to secure a good grade. Employees who will claim to be ill (when they are not) so that they can enjoy “free days” at their employer’s expense. Persons who refuse to give their best efforts because they conclude that they are not being paid to go the extra mile. A married woman who seeks to justify being unfaithful following the discovery that her husband had an adulterous relationship. The list goes on. We feel sorry for those who sell their principles, incorrectly assuming that they are gaining some form of benefit, when, in fact, they are depleting their self-worth and tarnishing their reputation.

America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, is quoted as having said, “Important principles may and must be inflexible.” He also reminded us that, “People will pass away but principles live on forever.” These are very reassuring words as we observe principles being threatened in our homes, schools, workplaces, halls of government, and even in some churches. However, all is not lost.

There are still many of strong character who hold true to the basic principles that keep societies strong: honesty, integrity, gentleness, kindness, empathy, and so on. We should not be daunted, good will overcome evil … even though those who embrace unethical practices appear to “get ahead” in life.

We are also encouraged by many passages in the bible that remind us not to be distracted by the “progress” that evil persons appear to be making.

The Old Testament books of Psalms and Proverbs provide numerous examples of the benefits of not compromising principles. We are encouraged. We swim against the tide (and are not distracted by the dead fish that are floating downstream)! We listen to a different drummer! We walk the moral high road! It may sometimes seem like a lonely road as the perpetrators of evil mock and ridicule those who have chosen the path of righteousness (doing what is right). But, for those who will live lives of honesty and integrity, there is no other option.

Ayn Rand (1905-1982) encourages and comforts us with these words: “There can be no compromise on basic principles. There can be no compromise on moral issues. There can be no compromise on matters of knowledge, of truth, of rational conviction.” So, while there will always be individuals who seek to justify immorality and dishonesty, to get ahead at all costs, we encourage ourselves and others to resist such temptations. We hold firm to the principles that keep individuals and societies strong. We will not retract.

We will not give in. We strengthen our resolve as we champion the cause for no compromise on principle.

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

Venezuela will win

THE BOLIVARIAN REPUBLIC of Venezuela is abuzz with activity as it presses ahead with preparations for presidential elections slated for May 20, 2018.

Last Tuesday, the Republic held an International Conference for reparations. While this conference was being held, a Congress for Youth of African Descendants was also in progress. Government activities continue apace. Last Sunday, more than 600,000 people participated in a dress rehearsal for those elections.

While close to 20 million Venezuelans are registered to vote, a vote of more than 50 percent will be considered high, particularly where the main opposition parties are boycotting the vote. During the vote for the Constituent Assembly last July, more than 8 million people voted.

These are crucial elections. They come at a time when the United States of America is stepping up its attacks against the Bolivarian revolution. Last week, the United States Treasury Department imposed new sanctions against the country.

These sanctions are having a big effect, in that they make it difficult for the government to buy necessary products to keep the economy functioning. Inflation is absurd because of the manipulations. This pressure is intended to make the economy scream so that persons who support Commander Chavez and President Maduro will shift away from the government and support the unpatriotic opposition that is working with foreign forces, especially the United States, whose sole interest and concern is control of Venezuela’s oil wealth and other resources.

What Venezuela is attempting to do is critically important. For the last 20 years since the triumph of the revolution, the bulk of the country’s wealth has been directed toward solving the many problems faced by the people. A serious assault has been launched against illiteracy and poverty. A grand programme to house the poor and working people has resulted in the construction of more than 3 million homes. Health care has become free so that for the first time in their lives, many persons were able to see a doctor or dentist.

The Bolivarian revolution is significant in another more critical area. President Chavez was the first president in the history of the republic to proclaim and celebrate his African and indigenous roots. This has caused a change in the minds of those with African and indigenous roots. What they formally hid, they now celebrate.

Two months ago, President Maduro officially adopted the United Nations call to make the years 2015 to 2024 the Decade of People of African Descent. A demonstration of its commitment is reflected in the passage of the law against racial discrimination.

The government also established an Institute for African Knowledge. The Congress of Youth of African Descent and the International Reparations Conference must be seen as part of that positive and progressive commitment.

These activities by the Bolivarian Revolutionary Government, especially its decision to join the fight for reparations, adds a new impetus to CARICOM’s reparations demands of

2013.

And so the Caribbean delegates at the conference called for the adoption of the following action plan: 1. The government of Venezuela should establish a Venezuela reparations Commission that would be the counterpart of the Caribbean Rick reparations Commission; 2. The government of Venezuela should establish a National Reparations Resource Center which would be the Venezuelan counterparts of the Caribbean Reparations Resource Center that is located at the Mona Campus of the University of the West Indies; 3. The Venezuelan government should officially communicate with CARICOM in relation to: a) Expressing support for the CARICOM reparations campaign b) Notify CARICOM that Venezuela is launching a claim on behalf of African Venezuelan population and is requesting CARICOM support c) Make a proposal to CARICOM for Venezuela/CARICOM collaboration on reparations d) Propose a meeting between Venezuela and Caricom to discuss such collaboration 4. Venezuela and CARICOM should collaborate on conceptualizing and organizing an international reparations infrastructure comprising A) all Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Ministers of Culture and Ministers of Education.

B) The CARICOM Reparations Commission, the Venezuela Reparations Commission, National Government Reparation Committees of various CARICOM States, the CARICOM Reparations Resource Center and the Venezuela Resource Center, all universities, ambassador to the United Nations, the organization of American States, our embassies and ambassadors all over the world, our Caricom/ Venezuela Youth Reparations Caucus, our civil society organizations, social movements and community-based organizations that are committed to reparations; 5. Initiate a special reparations project intended to target one very important and high profile Western Institution that is liable to pay reparations. In so doing, it organizes a team of researchers, lawyers, activists under the auspices of the CARICOM Reparations Resource Center to undertake a programme of activism, including lawsuits against this major Western Institution. Venezuela and CARICOM should commit to finance this project through payments to the University of the West Indies.

The recent events and activities in Venezuela demonstrate how critically important it is for the Bolivarian revolution to break the American led efforts to crush it.

Plain Talk wishes the Bolivarian revolutionaries all success in the presidential elections slated for May 20, 2018.

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

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12. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

ULP regime cannot manage education and money

A VINCENTIAN businessman told the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, that the Belle Isle prison is full. He also said that if the ULP regime built three more prisons, they would be full too, because the economic situation in SVG is so bad.

Unemployment is high and there is a huge amount of poverty throughout our country. The economic and social situation in SVG is very tough, and many people are in desperate circumstances. With little chance of getting a job and earning any money, a significant number of people are turning to crime, hence the full prisons.

At the recent Christian Council conference on crime held in Kingstown, a senior prison officer told the audience that the majority of the young inmates cannot read. It is believed that at least 8 out of 10 young inmates cannot read.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal fully agrees with the Vincentian businessman, that the ULP regime’s so-called Education Revolution is a big joke. It is a major weakness for our country.

We have to ask ourselves, is the poor education system intentional? In 2017, the ULP regime’s capital expenditure on education was peanuts

— only EC$7.7 million, whereas tax exemptions given to Taiwan and the super-rich in Mustique and Canouan were about EC$3.5 billion.

From 2001 to 2018, the ULP regime’s education system has failed to deliver for many male youths. A significant number of male youths do not finish their schooling. They are leaving school early and ending up in prison not long afterwards.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, believes that the high level of crime and full prisons situation, has been created by the ULP regime’s failure to create a strong economy, and failure to provide a good education system.

It is well known all over the world, that people who are functionally illiterate have a higher chance of ending up in the criminal system. A study in the USA concluded that inmates have a 16 percent chance of returning to prison if they receive literacy help, as opposed to 70 percent for those who receive no help.

The situation in SVG is beyond ridiculous, with more male youths going to prison than to university.

The cost to society and the economy is enormous and is like a doublewhammy. People in prison cost the SVG Treasury a lot of money to maintain, and as they are not working,

they do not make any tax contributions to the SVG Treasury.

The public finances take a double hit.

Another major weakness for our country, and a big contributory factor to the high crime rate in SVG, is that the ULP regime cannot competently manage the Public Accounts.

When Singapore gained independence in the 1960s, it focused on education and building universities — not prisons - in order to create a strong economy. Now, Singapore has the highest percentage of millionaire households as a share of a country’s total households at 15.5%; Singapore topped the charts for highest GDP per capita in 2010 at close to EC$152,636, and is expected to continue to be the

global leader until 2050; Singapore has a GDP of EC$810 billion; Singapore has a very low unemployment rate of 1.9%; and, more than 70% of Singapore resident non-students aged 25-34 have a university education.

In contrast, since 2001, the ULP regime has focused on begging and borrowing, building prisons and giving tax exemptions to Taiwan and the super-rich in Mustique and Canouan.

Now, SVG has prisons overflowing with illiterate male youths: high unemployment, crime and poverty, the 4th highest murder rate per capita in the world, and a very weak economy.

Don’t you think that something is wrong? Don’t you think that SVG needs a new government?

SVG Green Party

A BOOK REVIEW: “Martha” reviewed fully independent, skilled THIS FICTIONAL novel young woman able to “Martha” by Shirla make her own Philogene is well worth worthwhile decisions. reading. The story moves Martha’s decisions at a speed that encourages drastically change the the reader to keep pace journey that was set out with the movement of by her mother. The Martha’s personal growth reader can clearly see the and development from a author’s articulation on simple village girl matters of limited female dominated by a widowed expectations within the religious mother in a then Caribbean Caribbean island to a civilization as opposed to gracious woman of the the broader dreams and metropole. aspirations of the Life is a journey. A advancing cosmopolitan detailed, timed, journey woman in England. filled with twists and Martha moves from the turns, expected and The front cover of reserved, submissive, unexpected events, people “Martha” unprepared image of a crossing, paralleling and housewife-to-be for uniting with each other.

All these encompass life. For the young, Harry, to a woman of substance, property owner, seamstress of French their parents often seek to dictate the couture and owner of her own business. best route and timed results through This novel captures an intriguing their interesting journey of life. surprise as the journeys of Martha and Philogene’s fictional novel, Martha, Harry move from being intertwined to captures the very essence of the parallel. Harry does not marry his protagonist’s journey from youth to womanhood, and shows how her journey youthful love Martha. Instead, Martha entangles the lives of family, friends and marries Harry’s Jamaican friend Benjie whose character develops in line with an entire village. The author uses Martha. Both Martha and Harry as well several techniques unique to novel as Benjie move from diamonds in the writing which work effectively in rough, to well-cut and polished producing a captivating plot that keeps individuals by the end of the wellthe reader intrigued to the very end. written novel.

Some of the techniques immediately Indeed, I would recommend this identified throughout the novel include carefully tailored piece to readers of all foreshadowing; short condensed ages, but especially to adolescent and chapters; scene switching across young adult readers, as it gives a countries; rich dialogue; significant comprehensive guide for journeying to epistolary inclusions and characters of adulthood. The novel Martha, develops various types. several worthwhile themes such as, The novel’s protagonist, Martha appearance versus reality, religious Power, begins as a type of naif character, controlled, over-protected and influence as a superior moral compass, the changing role of women in varying manipulated by her widowed mother societies, class divisions and social class, Mrs Power. Martha seems to have no Caribbean values and norms, and mind of her own as she lives under the adjustment to a new way of life as one clutches of her mother’s dictates which matures. These themes play a vital role are heavily influenced by Catholicism and compliance with her expectations for in our ever-changing society. Our a female in a rural village setting of the Caribbean civilization is evolving along with the rest of The World, not time period projected throughout the necessarily at the same pace; but change novel. This time period appears to be is inevitable, and through these changes around the early twentieth century. we must be sure as individuals what is As the heavily layered plot proceeds important to hold on to as foundation, and Martha travels to England in hope and what to embrace as improvement. of marrying Harry Peters, who is her parentally selected suitor from the Review by Soyini Clarke-Palmer Caribbean village, she matures into a

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 13.

Diaspora

May is Garifuna Arts & Culture Appreciation Month in NYC

Budari Dance Company – one of the cultural groups combating the erosion of the Garifuna culture. (YouTube Photo)

“enriched New York City’s cultural landscape since 1823, when William Henry Brown, recognized as the first American playwright of African THE BRONX, New York-based Garifuna descent, wrote ‘The Drama of King Coalition USA, Inc. says it is celebrating Shotaway’ a play which is recognized Garifuna Arts & Culture Appreciation as the first black drama of the Month in New York City during the month American Theatre.” of May, in honor of the 17th anniversary The play had as its subject the 1795 of the United Nations Educational, Black Caribs’ (Garifunas) defense of Scientific and Cultural Organization’s the island of St. Vincent and the (UNESCO) proclamation of the Garifuna Grenadines against colonization, led by Language, Dance and Music as a Paramount Garifuna Chief Joseph ‘Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Chatoyer, the Garifuna Coalition, Heritage of Humanity, on May 18 2001.’ USA, Inc. said.

“During Garifuna Arts & Culture “During Garifuna Arts & Culture Appreciation Month, we will recall the Appreciation Month, we will honor this known and unknown artists who rich heritage,” it said. “This legacy helped create this Garifuna Arts & tells a story of ingenuity and faith.

Culture history,” said the group in a “Amidst the injustice of their forced statement. “Their contributions help deportation from St. Vincent and the illuminate the human experience and Grenadines, Garifunas lifted their spirit, and they help us reflect on our voices to the heavens through City’s ongoing narrative.” traditional songs, such as ‘Yurumein’, It said the Garifuna Oral and which have transmitted the beliefs Intangible Cultural Heritage has that have guided the life of the Garifuna for generations,” it added.

Throughout the month of May, Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. said it will be exploring Garifuna Arts & Culture from “the legends who set the foundation to

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

Libana Maraza performs Arumahani which is a traditional a cappella song genre of the Garifuna people. (You Tube Photo)

the artists of the future.

“We will examine all through articles, photo galleries, timelines, videos and more,” it said.

The public is invited to celebrate Garifuna Arts and Culture at the following, among other, events: Abrazo

Garifuna, May 11; Paranda Concert Saturday, May 12, Bronx; 8th Annual Garifuna-American Legislative Day in Albany, NY, May 15; Wanaragua Contest & Festival, May 26; and Garifuna Cultural Concert, May 26, featuring Budari Dance Company & Libana Maraza Academia Bronx.

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14. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

FLOW congratulates TSSS Penn Relay Athletes THE THOMAS SAUNDERS SECONDARY School (TSSS) is basking in the success of its athletic team in the recently held

Penn Relays in Philadelphia, United States.

The 2018 outing was especially

MFlow’s Country manager Wayne Hull (standing 2nd from left), took time out to offer congratulations to the TSSS 2018 Penn Relay teams.

rewarding for the 4.400m female team comprised of Tiwanny John, Aaliyah Jordan, Zamesha Myle and Kaylia Edwards. The quartet recorded a time of 4 minutes 06.98 seconds to break the school’s previous best time of 4 minutes 8.15 seconds, recorded at the 2015 Penn Relays.

For this effort, the TSSS’ females finished 135th of 611 schools that contested the event.

The team’s coach, Godfrey Harry, said that their most recent success is of great significance as it further echoes the school’s focus and investment in sports.

Harry highlighted that his team “is young,” and expressed optimism about his school’s participation in 2019.

The athletes — both male and female were understandably overjoyed by their performances.

In addition to the four females listed

above, Oleisha Ryan and Almarie Providence were also members of the female contingent.

The male athletes’ list included Keejaun Chance, Micah Glasgow, Uroy Ryan, Inglis Daniel, Dawson Samuel and Joel Jack.

Meantime, Wayne Hull, head of telecommunications company Flow, congratulated the team on an outstanding performance in the Penn Relays, highlighting the significance of competing on a large stage.

Stating that the company strives to make significant contributions in various sectors of the national development and well-being, Hull pledged the company’s continued support for the school.

This is the eighth consecutive year the TSSS has competed at the prestigious Penn Relays. It was the first secondary school to do so.

Calder gets Neighbourhood Watch FOLLOWING a number of preparatory meetings of residents of Calder and surrounding communities over the past few months, the Calder Neighbourhood Watch Association (CNWA) was officially launched on Sunday, May 6th, 2018, during a

ceremony held at the Calder Primary School.

The event was chaired

by Assistant Superintendent of Police Junior Simmons.

Remarks came from Parliamentary Representative of the area, the Honourable Frederick Stephenson,

Minister of National Mobilization and Social Development, who emphasized the need for corporation between the neighbourhood watch and the police. He also posited that the police needed to work closer with communities and make a greater effort in

collaborating with them.

In his opening remarks, President of the CNWA, Dr. Arnold Thoma, highlighted the background and foundation of the organization, and outlined forthcoming activities to enhance security and social development in the community.

The New Democratic Party candidate for the area Noel Dickson, Superintendent of Police Enville Williams, and President of the Brighton Neighbourhood Watch Bishop Ian Enoch also

Some members of the recently launched Calder Neighbourhood Watch Association (CNWA). spoke at the event.

The keynote address was delivered by Barrister at Law, Patricia Marks-Minors.

The National Lotteries Authority and the Calder Primary School were recognized for their assistance in making the

event possible.The CNWA incorporates the communities of Calder, Crick Corner, Akers and Cross Road Stubbs, and carries the motto: Protecting and developing our community through shared vigilance.

Soroptimist elect new Executive MEMBERS of Soroptimist International of St. Vincent and the Grenadines gathered on Saturday 28th April, 2018 at the Club Room at New Montrose, Kingstown for their 31st Annual General Meeting.

Members heard the President’s Report from Sis Angella Taylor and the Programme Action Report from Sis Ikarmola La Borde — Head of the Committee. Treasurer Sis Euna Thompson presented the Treasurer’s report and laid the Audited Accounts for 2017 — 2018 on the Table for members’ consideration.

All Reports were adopted.

Elections were held, and the following persons were elected to serve the Club in their respective Executive offices for the 2018 — 2019 Term: Miss René Baptiste CMG as President; Ms. Josie-Ann Small as President Elect; Ms. Idalia Job as Vice President; Mrs. Keisha Fraser as

The 2018 – 2019 Executive of Soroptimist International of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Secretary; Ms. Euna Thompson as Treasurer; Mrs. Nicola Williams as Membership Officer; Mrs. Lavinia Gunn as Development Officer; Mrs. Gail Davis as Communication Officer; Mrs. Joyce Stay and Mrs. Zeitha Hadaway as Committee Members.

Past President Mrs. Angella Taylor will sit with the Executive.

May is Membership Month, and the Club will be reviewing their Projects, Programmes, Activities and Events, and doing some updating.

Current membership stands at 33 ladies. (Contributed)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 15.

People

‘Ole George’ dancing for more than a record

by CARLYLE DOUGLAS EARL ‘OLE GEORGE’ DANIEL, SVG’s own ‘Iron Man’, has re- set his recordbreaking intent.

Come May 30th, 2018, ‘Ole George’ will attempt to break the world record for the longest unbroken dance. He intends to dance for seven straight days, without a second of sleep. This, he said, should take him well into June 7, 2019.

His target is to dance for 168 hours which will take him past the record of 123 hours held by Kalamandalam Hemalatha of India, otherwise known as The Dancing Queen of Kerala, and get him into the Guinness Book of Records.

Of the current record holder, ‘Ole George’ noted, “The Dancing Queen of Kerala is up against the ‘Dancing Machine’ of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

The dance marathon is scheduled for Peace Memorial Hall, Kingstown, and is open to the public.

As has been the case with all of ‘Ole Geroge’s’ previous undertakings, this

time around, the effort is aimed at increasing awareness about diabetes.

It is hoped that those visiting the Peace Memorial Hall during the dance would make generous financial contributions to the national cause of fighting diabetes, a preventable but oftentimes ignored ailment prevalent among Vincentians.

The dance will also be dedicated to bringing attention to the crime situation “as a way to get Vincentians to engage in a national discussion on finding solutions to the crime situation and also to do some introspection on their role in feeding the violent culture that presently exists,” ‘Ole George’ said.

It is planned that, while the dance is taking place, there will be trained individuals in the building engaging well -wishers and supporters in discussions of this nature. There will be radio talks and call-in programmes during the week of the dance.

Another notable feature of this endeavour, is that ‘Ole George’ will

Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel will make another attempt to write – in this case, to dance – himself into the Guinness Book of Records. dance to only Gospel Music.

“It is time to bring the walls of Jericho down and as such, the This is what ‘Ole George’ experiences dance will be a prayer for divine most days in Quebec, but which he uses intervention to solve the crime as a ‘training ground’. situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” ‘George’ explained. event in which everyone can “I am asking everyone who believes participate in someway,” he appealed. in taking St. Vincent and the Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel is a Social Working, currently residing and Grenadines back, to come out and working in Quebec, Canada. support me. I see this as a national

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16. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Vincy Mas

Vincy Mas launch in NY a success

Panchant (Garifuna award-winning artiste);Wiseguy; Dennis Bowman; Fyah SHERILL-ANN MASONEmpress and Naphtali.

HAYWOOD, the new head There were also of the Brooklyn-based St. costume band displays, Vincent and the mainly from Adrenaline, Grenadines Diaspora Carnival Players Committee of New York, International, Nelson has described as a Bloc, and SVG Connect. success Saturday’s In addition, Masonlaunch of Vincy Mas in Haywood said there were New York. displays by promoters of “The event drew private events, the SVG hundreds of Vincentians Diaspora Committee, the to the FOCH and scores SVG New York Tourism of non-Vincentians who Office and Caribbean were drawn in by the Airlines. sound of sweet pan music,” Mason-Haywood Continued on Page 17. told THE VINCENTIAN on Sunday, referring to the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, where the event was held to coincide with the official launch of Vincy Mas in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Video displays of previous carnival actions and this year’s mas bands presentations were on display throughout the event,” added MasonHaywood, who succeeded her husband, Maxwell Haywood, as chairman of the group, on his death from cancer.

At Saturday’s New York launch, performances came from, among others: Brooklyn 20th Century Steel Orchestra; Don Calypsonian Don Radix Radix; John Dougan; debuts with ‘This is a Oscar James; Hymn Vincy Party.’ legend; Curtis C;

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

Brooklyn Century Steel Orchestra performs at Vincy Mas launch in NY.

Desbert Pitt (L) and Petulah QuammieCommissiong in foreground of SVG Players International’s display of its 2018 presentation ‘Legends of the Soca Monarch — The Best of the Best’.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 17.

Vincy Mas

Lynx Mas Band presents ÂDevastating ElementsÊ

‘Tidal Wave’ on display.

SOME NATURAL PHENOMENA which in their ravaging forms can cause catastrophic harm, even death and total annihilation to man, beast and the physical environment in which they dwell, will be featured for Vincy Mas 2018.

This, when Lynx Mas Band present their costume band entitled ‘Devastating Elements’.

The five sections to be presented are ‘Volcanic Eruptions’, ‘Snow Storm’, ‘Wild Fire’, ‘Tidal Wave’ and ‘Trough System’.

Bandleader Cornelius ‘Pete’ Thomas disclosed that the band has chosen to reduce the number of sections for 2018 but projects the usual high level of artistry in the production.

“We’ll have another colourful band this year; a presentation that we are hoping would set the Victoria Park and the streets of capital, Kingstown aglow.” Thomas promised.

A display of the section Thomas noted ‘Volcanic.’ that his band is still buoyed by the band will be going all out successes of the last two to surpass its recent presentations. standings, with a Last year, their particular eye on copping presentation ‘From the the Individual of the Movies’ enabled them to Year title. maintain the fifth While the band has position, as was achieved not had an official public in 2016, with ‘Send This, launch as has been the Send That’, in the Band case in previous years, of the Year competition. production is in full train Also in 2017, the band for the 2018 mas took the third place in presentation. the Section of the Year The Lynx Mas Band is contest, and was 1st again operating at the runner-up in the back of the G & T Individuals of the Year Enterprise Supermarket, competition. located at the Sion Hill Thomas said that his Intersection.

Vincy Mas launch in NY a success [local Carnival Development Corporation] and to forge an even Local Vincentian cuisine, treats and stronger partnership in the years to drinks were on sale. Djs Supa Eyes, come,” she added.

Young G and Ez Soundz provided The Committee said this new music. partnership with CDC emerged after The event, hosted by the Diaspora Ainsley Primus, a Brooklyn-based Committee’s Cultural Association, Vincentian cultural organizer, who CAVUSA, heard remarks from had previously spearheaded the CAVUSA chairman Awusu Slater and annual launch, “gave up the project Mason-Haywood. due to personal reasons.

“The event was a success in “The ultimate goal is to increase the volunteerism in the Diaspora,” Maspromotion and packaging of Vincy Mas Haywood said. “Everyone who to Vincentians and non-Vincentians participated did so in pure love for alike, and to increase the visitors to country and for the promotion of our the shores of St. Vincent and the country’s premier cultural festival, Grenadines,” a statement from the Vincy Mas. SVG Diaspora Committee of New York “We will continue to support CDC said Continued from Page 16.

18. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

NE YEAR AGO, Dr Conrad Nedd harness the experience of having been Head of the Emergency Department at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, plus stints at other Health Care facilities and opened Advanced Health.

Advanced Health.

Dr. Nedd said, was and is a commitment to offering “high quality medical care for people of all ages,” with emphasis on preventative care.

Advanced Health, located opposite the Central Water and Sewerage Authority headquarters along the Leeward Advanced Health, located along the Highway, has Leeward Highway, has stayed the course Dr. Conrad Nedd -the visionary, the reasons to celebrate of its first year and looks with optimism professional, the chief service provider after one year in to continuing and expanding its services – who gives meaning and impact to service. The portfolio.

Advanced Health. mandate is being fulfilled, and Dr Nedd, a Vincentian born medical Dr. Nedd is modest though he Collaborations doctor, is putting his heart into the speaks with forthrightness. operation.

He reflected on the support received Advanced Health is Dr Nedd regarded the first year as for a symposium on ‘Healthy Eating’ at linked with Specialists “good.” He acknowledged there was the Kingstown Methodist Church Hall, from abroad, and because “growth”, and he is focusing on October 2017 and a Clinic on April 28 they serve voluntarily, cost “expansion.” this year, as being great successes. The is reduced.

“Our aim is to provide access to a It is also a training different kind of health care,” Dr Nedd Clinic saw one hundred and eighty-six persons. institution. Occupation explained.

“People worked hard to make it a Health and Safety features “We have seen opportunities to reality,” Dr Nedd mentioned, as if to as an area of emphasis, reach out to the public. We want to shift away from his own role in the and a collaboration with keep our services on a regular basis,” exercises. the School of Nursing here he outlined. focuses on care during disasters.

Advanced Health also offers Global Standard of World Health Training through a connection with the American Heart Foundation.

Dr Nedd sees the need for others to take up training to respond to the various health care requirements.

O

The reception area of Advanced Health.

and what motivates, Dr Nedd responded: “Every physician has a responsibility to do some community Further development outreach. They should find a way or opportunity to offer assistance without Dr. Nedd spoke of full time X-Ray the community having to pay for it.” and Ultra Sound services as soon to He pointed to a “great need for a come on board at Advanced Health.

In a broader sense, he is wishing for different approach to health care, where people are educated about their a “Digital web portal, for patients to health, so that they can participate in access personalised health the decision making and take information,” and would like to see a responsibility for their own health greater degree of exchange among care.” service providers.

The father of two sons with his Sri “Internal service providers have to Lanka born wife, Dr Nedd is grateful work together,” Dr Nedd suggested. to those who supported the Clinic. “We “I don’t know what is the hold up,” he added, and described the absence as will continue to develop our service to bring health care into the 21st a “major barrier to people.” century,” he assured.

Asked about his own orientation

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 19.

Feature

The stabilising force

HE AGE-OLD QUESTION about who stands firmly behind a successful man, is applicable to Advanced Health.

While Dr. Conrad Nedd is the medical professional that interfaces with the public in an intimate way, his wife, Kaushalya Nedd, who is officially designed Managing Director, brings stability to the ongoing management of the health facility and its range of services.

A Sri Lankan by birth, she came to this country many years ago, and has become fully Kaushalya Nedd, Managing Director, provides the expertise that ensures the acclimatised.

There is no question that her smooth operation of Advanced Heath. contribution is vital in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines completing the setting for the Community College were also in provision of this service, even as she attendance. juggles this responsibility with her “We try to provide all the services,” duties as husband and mother to two the Managing Director said. sons.

Mrs Nedd was pleased to say Mrs Nedd, obviously proud of Advanced Health, among its many Advanced Health, was overly training programmes, was the local heartened by the April 28 Open Day source of certification in Basic Life that Advanced Health staged as part of its programme of activities to mark Support Training, an area of training she herself was able to put to good use its 1st Anniversary.

The Open Day featured services by in responding to the needs of a person who was involved in an incident, eye specialists, paediatricians, which occurred on the Leeward nutritionists, five general medical Highway, next to her clinic. practitioners, three nurses and She is looking forward to another technicians. In addition to the over successful year of service to the people 100 persons who benefited from the of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. free clinics, 12 Biology students from

T

What people say: Joel Jack Administrator He is from the area of Sharpesdale in Central Kingstown. The first thing that strikes you about his name is its commonality. He concedes that there are

at least ten ‘other Joel Jacks’ that he knows of.

This one has high regards for Dr Nedd and the Advanced Health: “The guy is professional. When you go in to see the doctor, he is never rushed. You have the confidence that he looking at every

possible angle to make the diagnosis. You feel well cared for.

“I know Dr Nedd has been outstanding in the public sector for a number of years, (and) there is added comfort in terms of his ability to counsel from a Christian background.”

20. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 21.

Feature

„So far so good‰ SHERNEE MC DOWALL has been in the medical profession for the past ten years. From the North Central Windward district of Park Hill, McDowall is a graduate of the Nursing Division of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.

She is a foundation worker at Advanced Health and considers the operation to be “so far so good.”

McDowall is happy that she is contributing to the delivery of health care nationwide.

The atmosphere at Advanced Health, “is conducive to learning”, and she has benefitted from in house Shernee McDowall – full time nurse training, Shernee said. practitioner at Advanced Health.

Advanced Health is an institution that is keen on improving the value of not just workers in the field, but also for the whole society, Shernee contended.

The young lady is not resting on her laurels, and plans to enhance her skills in the nursing profession, with further training abroad.

And when she gets a break from dispensing her services as a nurse, she goes to the beach, which she confesses, “….helps me to keep calm.”

Joyles better equipped SHEMAIAH JOYLES is a member of staff at Advanced Health from its inception.

The Chapman native described the first year as a “good experience” for him.

A former employee of a Medical School here, joining Advanced Health has provided the opportunity for him to serve and to learn.

“I have learnt a lot in terms of medical services. I could do basic life support,” he confided as he admitted to enjoying himself at Advanced Health.

He has made practical use of his skills. He recalls responding to an accident victim outside his workplace recently.

“The experience has made me better in terms of (understanding) medicine, and lifesaving skills,” Shemaiah said.

Shemaiah Joyles admits to having learned a lot during the year he has been with Advanced Health.

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22. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Accused: “I had more drugs than that”

by HAYDN HUGGINS ANSEL ALLEN amused the Serious Offences Court on Monday when he told Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne that he had more marijuana on him, than what he was charged with having.

The 37-year-old driver of Clifton, Union Island, had pleaded guilty to possession of 28 grams of marijuana with intent to supply. He was arrested at Clifton on May 5.

Allen told the Court that he wrestled with the police in order to destroy the drugs he had on him. In the process, he tore the plastic bag containing the marijuana, and the herb scattered on the ground, and the police scraped up some.

“That is not the drugs I had. I had more drugs than that,” said Allen, evoking giggles from the audience.

His explanation seemed to be an exceptional one in the chapters of Ansel Allen caused some laughter marijuana-related Court matters here. during his matter in which he Allen thanked the police for insisted he wanted to tell the truth. charging him with having less than what he had, but insisted, “I had more audience, even though appearing bombs (marijuana wrapped in small serious about getting his message parcels) than that. I just want to across. speak the truth,” seemingly enjoying He was fined $100. the opportunity to entertain the

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 23.

Community

JCI makes donation to Soup Kitchen

JCI ST. VINCENT CONTINUES to demonstrate its mission to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change.

Four prospective members of JCI St. Vincent recently completed their membership project by (L-R): Nick Francis, Bridget Bowens and Terrance Williams donating food at the handing over at the Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen. items to the Loaves and service to the less fortunate in our Fishes Soup Kitchen located in Rose Place, Kingstown, and operated by the community, especially children who are in need of help.”

Roman Catholic Diocese.

He also encouraged young persons The donations were handed over to to become members of JCI St. Vincent staff member Bridget Bowens at the which “has a long history of providing Soup Kitchen on Friday April 27th excellent development programmes for 2018. Speaking at the handing over young people”. ceremony, prospective member Nick Young persons who are interested Francis highlighted the importance of in becoming a member of JCI St. JCI’s service to humanity as being the Vincent can speak to a JCI Member or best work of life, and thanked those send an email to who participated in the project which will provide hot meals to poor families jcist.vincent@gmail.com in the community.

About JCI St. Vincent: Public Relations Officer for JCI St. Vincent, Mr. Terrance Williams, made The birth of the Jaycees movement an appeal to members of the general started in 1959 when Mr. Phillip public and businesses in and around Greaves, an assistant master at the Kingstown to donate to the Soup Kitchen, which provides “an essential Boys’ Grammar School introduced the ideals of the movement to Mr. Joe Connell, brother of the first President and Senator, Senator Arthur. R. Connell.

JCI St. Vincent (formerly known as Jaycees) grew over the years to become one of the most prominent social institutions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The organisation became a household name from the popular Jaycees Radio Bingo and Jaycees Public Speaking Competition.

One of the greatest contributions of JCI St. Vincent has been in the field of leadership development. Many of today’s leaders in a wide range of fields and sectors were members of and benefited from the training offered Grocery Items donated by JCI St. by the organization. Its many courses Vincent to the Soup Kitchen in and seminars give valuable training in Kingstown. management and leadership.

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24. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A bi-sexual affair Dear George, I AM A 29-year-old female and fairly independent. I have been in a relationship with this girl for about four years. Things started going sour between us when I made the decision to start seeing men again.

Right now, I consider myself as bi-sexual.

The contention arises because my partner does not want me to have anything to do with men.

She fears that, once I go back to dating men, I will dump her for good. I tell her that she has nothing to worry about; that my seeing men has nothing to do with me abandoning her. I reminded her that when we first hooked up, I told her that I am just taking a break from men until I sort myself out, and she agreed.

That said, I do not see

controlled, can be destructive. You are free to make changes to your relationship, once you are forthcoming and fair about them. However, you should also be mindful that feelings Need Answers would be hurt along the way.

Dear Need Answers, With no sound commitment to any one There is no doubt that person, there is bound to feelings can and do be conflict and change over time. The unnecessary stress. You feelings your partner may want to reset your may have grown lby eaps buttons and make a and bounds since it commitment to just one began, and could well be individual and stick to at a point where she that commitment. That cannot fathom the way, no one can accuse thought of you giving you of crossing lines. yourself to another.

Jealousy is something George that, if it is not

why she is so upset. She sees other women when she wants and I do not make a fuss. I cannot see why she has much to say about my decision. I need your help.

CanÊt have it both ways suggested. Instead, he remained in my house and freely continued to I HAVE BEEN supporting my boyfriend curse me.

What a mixed-up man! for the past year or so.

He was quite happy with He thinks I am prostituting myself, but me paying the bills and putting food on the table, he is still here eating because of me and while he made ‘limited’ enjoying some pocket efforts to find change. employment.

I have reached my Recently, he limit. I gave him one approached me and week to make up his declared he knew how I have been getting money. mind; either stay and He went as far as to say shut up or leave and find his own way. The last that I was prostituting time I checked, he was my body. still here.

I told him that now that he knew how I was Angry Sister getting my income, he should feel free to walk Dear Angry Sister, away, find someplace else to live and someone In fairness to your else to love. He never boyfriend, he should made a move to do as I

Dear George,

have been told from the beginning, the source of your income. That would have given him the opportunity to decide whether he wanted to stay or leave.

Now that he has found out, I agree, he cannot have it both ways. His principles ought to be strong enough for him to take leave of the relationship and face the challenge of finding his way on his own.

You have that right to do what you choose with your body, but at the same time, he also has that right not to accept the choices you make.

But, but like I said, he cannot have it both ways.

George

Childish and ungrateful!! to make, and you are way out of line to voice your dissatisfaction because a girl is delivered.

MY WOMAN just gave birth to our You are treading on dangerous fourth baby girl, and she expects me grounds, and you need to retract your to be happy even though she knew views and apologize to your “woman” how much I wanted a boy.

I am not happy with this one at all, for being so childish and ungrateful, and start assuming your role as the and I do not see why she expects me father of your bouncing baby girl. to rejoice with her when deep down inside I am not happy. I will not be a George hypocrite!

Dear George,

Plain minded Dear Plain minded, The sex of the baby is not your call

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project. You can help other people with their financial problems by setting up a budget for them. You will find your personal partner taxing this week. Those close to your heart may be difficult to reason with.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will have to be careful not to let others find out about your intentions. Your determination and stamina will make your work look flaw less and effortless. Avoid conflicts with inlaws or other family members. You can finish projects early, which will bring you praise from superiors.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Entertainment should include your whole family. You’d be wise to control your spending so your debts don’t get out of hand. You may be sensitive concerning friends and their situations. Family trips or projects should be on your mind.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Minor fevers or infections will develop if you’re over-stressed. Concentrate on your career and on making money. Do not let your mate annoy you; patience will be the key. Real estate should be lucrative for you.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Deceit around you is evident. Be supportive in order to avoid confrontations. You can buy or sell if you’re so inclined. Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will be popular and will easily attract members of the opposite sex. You have your own family to consider as well. Go after your professional goals. New emotional connections can be made through business contacts.

You can discuss your findings behind closed doors with your boss.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommodate you this week. Don’t blow situations out of proportion or you could find that others will misinterpret what really happened. Friendships could be terminated quickly if disappointments occur. New romantic relationships will develop through group activity related to sports events.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You may be able to impart knowledge that’s innovative to those searching for a new angle.

Don’t believe everything you hear. Don’t let others take advantage of your good nature.

Do something special for them.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Relationships will form if you get out and do things that you enjoy. You may have to take a short trip to visit someone who hasn’t been well. Your ability to be practical in business will help. Keep your cash in your pocket and offer them sound advice rather than your financial assistance.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will probably have to defend your mate.

You may find that your emotional partner will not be too eager to accommodate you. You need to do something energetic and different.

Talk to your mate about a vacation and discuss the expectations of your relationship.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Plans to make physical improvements may lead to psychological changes, too. Lowered vitality could affect your work. Overexertion and negligence will be your worst enemies.

You need to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm and confidence in you.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You should spend your day trying to get things completed at work. Your reputation may be at stake if you partake in gossip. Control your temper by getting immersed in your work.

New hair, new outfit, new you.

ACROSS 1. 6th month of the Jewish calendar 5. To yield 9. Bleat of a sheep 12. River in central Switzerland 13. Atop 14. Entirely 15. Song in praise of God 16. Composition in verse 17. Decease 18. Raised platform 20. Enthusiastic 22. Fable 25. Upward slope 26. Very hard mineral 27. Authentic 28. Resin 29. Not 30. Exclamation of contempt 33. Bristles 35. Look happy 37. District adjacent to a city 40. Person who needs 41. One-called protozoa 42. Equipment 43. Falsehood 44. False god 46. Stated 50. Sailor 51. Notion 52. Tree frog 53. Firmanent 54. Cajole 55. Shout DOWN 1. Exclamation of surprise 2. 24 hours 3. Upper limb 4. Pay as due 5. Roman god of carnal love

6. Epic poetry 7. Female deer 8. Entangle 9. Emblem 10. Extraterrestrial 11. Wide-awake 19. Some 21. Statute 22. Lower limb 23. Large flightless bird 24. Valued mineral 25. Very skilled person 27. Organ of hearing 29. Penpoint 30. Direct 31. Malt Beverage 32. Pronoun 33. Central part of a wheel

34. Semitic language 35. Ocean 36. Like a marsh 37. Old sailors 38. Eskimo boat 39. Affected by beer 40. Make less

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 25.

tense 42. Greek goddess of the earth 45. Fuss 47. Affirmative vote 48. Unwell 49. Indian dish

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26. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

We need to revitalize the agricultural sector.

What says Caesar?

OUR AGRICULTURE has over the last several decades been pushed to the bottom of the pit by our administrators, and we ought now to be endeavouring to help it crawl back out of it. As we go forward, we have to do things right. Farmers must not accommodate the duplicity of the agents of those who for years have

done very little to address those factors which have been adversely affecting the agricultural sector.

The farmers must themselves set their goals and be relentless in the pursuit of them. For years they have been treated with indifference, seemingly not appreciated for the inflow to the economy of

hundreds of millions of dollars via trade, while being the primary subsidizers of the poor in our land. The agriculture sector has been the sector providing employment for the greatest percentage of the labour force, in conditions more beneficial to the workers.

If one were to

dispassionately reflect on many of the rural communities and note their development over the last sixty years, it will be found that the development of the people of those communities was possible because of the vibrancy of the agriculture sector. The unprecedented impact of the Banana Industry is irrefutable.

Testimony of this impact is clearly unmatched when the evidence is laid out with respect to the improvement in housing, education and access to health care. One area where this has been most noticeable is the area known as South Central Windward which embraces the villages of Diamonds, New Grounds, Lowmans and Greggs. In this area, there are impressive residences built on sizeable plots of fertile land, but there is hardly any significant agricultural activity evident today.

A Minister’s seeming indifference Mr. Saboto Caesar is the parliamentary representative for this constituency which is so blatantly crying out for organized agricultural activity. This is remarkable, for Mr. Caesar is the Minister of Agriculture, he has had his groundings in this community and has been educated to the degree of being eminently qualified, to be at the vanguard of the continued development of the people of those villages. Hard working and industrious people they are!

Mr. Saboto Caesar has been woefully ineffectual when one considers critically, his performance in the Ministry of Agriculture to date. He has seemingly not learnt much from the experiences and lessons inherent in the performances of his precursors who represented that constituency for several decades. It is reasonable to say that the people had expected more from him!

I myself have been perplexed by the gentleman’s seeming indifference, particularly as it relates to

agriculture in general and the banana industry in particular. On his initial association with the Ministry of Agriculture, he seemed to enjoy the publicity that “the banana cutback”, relative to the Black Sigatoka fiasco offered him. He and the former Chief Agriculture Officer exuded keenness as they were photographed armed with their cutlasses in the field from time to time.

It is reasonable to say that Mr. Caesar has been one of the beneficiaries of the era, when the trade in bananas brought us in SVG, steady income. So I was rather shocked to hear him say in the House of Parliament, that the response of the farmers had not satisfied him, and he advocated that legislation instituted to force them to comply.

That was indeed an unfortunate statement by an individual whom the people had expected to champion their cause.

It seemed to me to be flavoured with more than just a little arrogance!

Who is accountable?

Chief Agriculture officer, was published. Under this plan which was to have commenced on April 18th and ended on July 26th, 2016, two hundred and fifty (250) acres of new bananas were to have been replanted. The plan was aborted and we are now shipping no bananas to the U.I. No explanation has been given.

Mr. Caesar’s ministry must be held accountable.

Promises fall on infertile soil Our present administrators should always be reminded that one of the promises they made to the people in 2001 was that they were going to revitalize the Banana Industry. They even declared that they had tremendous support from some influential persons in the U.K who would ensure the success of the plan. The feeder roads were also going to be aggressively addressed. The people were impressed, the farmers had their hopes revived, and they voted, they gave the ULP the authority to govern.

Were they fooled?

Today, those promises have not been honoured, and there has not up to now been any serious attempt to address those areas which have been a great burden to the farming community for almost twenty years.

WINFA, led by brother Renwick Rose, should be playing a prominent role in this conversation, and he should be able to engender the energetic support of the distinguished leaders of the labour unions who are well placed to measure the agony of the people, because of our strangled economy.

It is getting a bit late, but there may yet be enough time for Mr. Caesar to use the office and his authority as Minister of Agriculture to impress that he has the interest of the people of South Central Windward at heart, and he has the desire to see our country progress in the vital area of agriculture, where there seemed to be so much potential years ago.

That will indeed be an honourable legacy!

Mr. Caesar needs to be reminded of two important points.

1. When the Dr. Gonsalves led government took the decision to shut down the St. Vincent Banana Growers Association, the largest organization of farmers in the land, the Government assumed responsibility for Pest and Disease Control in the Banana Industry.

Yet, when it was reported to them that we had the disease, they took two years before they acted. It must be noted that in this neutralizing of the Banana Growers Association, they had the strong support of WINFA, which was then headed by brother Renwick Rose. This must feature in our conversation as we plan the way forward now.

2. Following on several previous nonproductive plans for bananas, in April of 2016, a Twenty Point 100 Days Plan authored

by Hon. Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture and Mr. Ashley Caine, LeRoy Providence

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THE VINCENTIAN.

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 27.

Young athletes shine at National Open Championships IT- DAT Academy’s Yonick Murray won the Males Under-20 , 200 and 400m, in times of 22.52 seconds and 50.96 seconds in that order.

Matthias, Lewis and Murray, represented SVG at the 2018 Carifta Games held in the Bahamas last month.

Meanwhile, 2018 Carifta gold medallist in the Males Under-17 800m, Handel Roban of X- Cel Track Club , was a triple Romar Stapleton, on his way in winning the Under- winner.

17 Male 100m.

Roban won the 400m in 50.96 seconds, the 800m in SEVERAL YOUNG NATIONAL set for Buenos Aires, 2 minutes 10.98 seconds, ATHLETES showed their and the 1500m in 5 Argentina in October. prowess last Saturday and minutes 06.80 seconds.

Darria Matthias of ITSunday at the Arnos Vale Zita Vincent of Exeter DAT Academy was also a Playing Field, as Team High Performance copped double winner: she took Athletics SVG staged the the Females Under-20 the Females Under-20 2018 National Open 800m in 2 minutes and 100m and 200m, clocking Championships. clocking 12.59 seconds and 31.11 seconds, and the Among them was 24.88 seconds respectively. 500m in 5 minutes 39.04 Romar Stapleton of the seconds.

And Ulanda Lewis of newest track club — Speed Exeter High Performance Vincent, who was part Zone. He clocked 11.44 of SVG’s team to the most was not to be outdone. seconds to win the Males recent Carifta Games, and She ran away with Under-17 100m, and 22.78 victories in the Females who took the gold medal seconds in taking the Under-17 sprints, clocking in the Females Under-20 4 200m.

12.44 seconds in the 100m x 400m, is a member of Stapleton is bound for the SVG team to the and 25.26 seconds in the the Youth Olympic Games 200m.

Youth Olympic Games,

later this year.

Another athlete who was part of SVG’s team to this year’s Carifta Games in the Bahamas, Uroy Ryan won the Males Under15 Long Jump, High Jump and 80m dash.

Ryan represented XCeed Sports Club at the Championships.

Also part of the SVG’s Carifta Games team last month, Desroy Jordan of X- Cel Track Club showed his worth in gold, as he ran away with the Males Under-20 800 and 1500m, with times of 2 minutes 08.85 seconds and 4 minutes 26.24 seconds, in that order.

Meanwhile, Odesha John of IT-DAT Academy won the Females Under20 Triple Jump and High Jump.

New athlete on the block- Shonte Matthias of the IT- DAT Academy took gold in the Females High Jump and the Ball Throw.

Also, emerging Under13 athlete- Jaivar Cato of X- Ceed, won the Males

Females dominate SVGTA executive SEVEN FEMALES are among a ninemember executive that has been installed to run the affairs of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association (SVGTA), for the next two years.

The executive was installed last Saturday at the conference room of the Administrative Centre of the National Sports Council, Arnos Vale.

Among the females is Karen Anderson, who was returned as Vice — President.

Anderson was elevated to the post in 2017, following the departure of Deborah King, who was elected in April 2016.

Anderson initially was a committee member.

(Seated from left) - Jennell Adams, Janelle Humphrey, Brian Like Anderson, Janelle Humphrey stays Nash, Karen Anderson, Lesa Robinson. (Standing from left) as the association’s General Secretary.

Keisha Gurley, Cleopatra White, Ronald Veira, Karen Nash.

The new faces are Lesa Robinson and They join, Brian Nash, who continues as the SVGTA Jennell Adams, who assume the roles of Treasurer and President for another two-year tenure.

Public Relations Officer, respectively.

All members of the SVGTA’s executive were elected When the last elections were held two years ago, unopposed, as President Brian Nash, moved a motion Donnette Lyttle was elected as the Treasurer and to have the executive returned, instead of a deferral of Robertson Henry- the Public Relations Officer. the process.

Henry, within months of his election, resigned his His motion was upheld, thus paving the way for the post, with then Committee Member Winfield Tanniselection of the Treasurer and Public Relations Officer.

Abbott taking up Henry’s duties.

Both Robinson and Allen had no oppositions to their Terry Ballantyne and Cleopatra White were the nominations, hence too, were installed unopposed. other two committee members elected then.

Last Saturday’s General Meeting also heard the At last Saturday’s meeting, White, Keisha Gurley, President’s Report and the reading of the SVGTA’s Karen Nash and Ronald Veira, were confirmed as the Financial Statement for the past two years. four Committee Members.

Ulanda Lewis is out-front in the Under-17 100m for Females.

Under-13 High Jump and the 60m Dash.

Likewise, Ashanti Richards of Exeter High Performance won golds in the females Under-15 800 and 1000m.

And, X- Cel Track Club had most wins in the Males Relays, while IT-

DAT Academy dominated the Females Relays.

Medals were presented to the first, second and third places in each of the events.

The National Open Championships replaced the National Club Championships.

Father, son win Squash titles THE FATHER AND SON DUO of James Bentick and Kai Bentick trumped in the veterans and mixed open for seniors of the National Squash Championships, which concluded last Saturday at the National Squash Centre in Paul’s Avenue.

James Bentick claimed his title when he defeated Paul Cyrus in the final 11/4, 11/4, 11/9.

Kai Bentick Before meeting Cyrus, James Bentick won by Below: James Bentick default over Isaac Solomon and beat Collin Alexander 11/0, 11/1, 11/0 Telbert Samuel took third place, winning by default over Collin Alexander.

Kai Bentick run up to the Mixed Open saw him defeating Bradley Glasgow 11/4, 11/2, 11/3, as well earning win by the default route over Jason Doyle.

And, in the championship match, Kai Bentick overcame Jules Snagg, 11/7, 7/11, 11/1, 15/13 Omari Wilson took third place, winning by default over Jason Doyle.

While it was James Bentick’s eleventh straight national senior Squash title, it was his son’s first senior accolade.

Kai Bentick is the number one Junior Squash player currently.

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association will host the OECS Senior Squash Tournament, from 17th to 20th May. This tournament was originally slated for Grenada, but that country later announced its inability to host the event.

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28. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Police Two on a T/20 high

POLICE Two recorded back to back victories, including one against defending champions Victors One, in last weekend rounds of matches in the National NLA/Neil Williams T20 Cricket Championship.

At Arnos Vale One last Saturday, Police Two inflicted a 6-wicket whipping on Victors One. Victors One batted first and made 137 for 7 from 18 overs - Miles Bascombe 32, Donwell Hector 28 and Alston Bobb 22.

Romamio Bibby, Kewin Abraham and Sylvan Spencer each had 2 wickets.

Police Two, with relative ease, tracked down and apprehended Victors One’s total. Desron Maloney blasted 91 to lead the lawmen to a closing total 140 for 4 from 17 overs.

Police Two’s other win came at Stubbs on Sunday. In even more

convincing fashion, they trounced North Windward by 102 runs. The lawmen posted 176 for 5 from 20 overs, Kenneth Dember topscoring with 53 not out. Then, Darious Martin, 2 for 4, and Romaria Bibby, 4 for 24, combined with the ball to bowl North Leeward out for a mere 74 in 19 overs.

Other weekend victories were recorded by Providence Electronic Solutions North Leeward and Guardian General Saints.

Saints beat Triumph United by 7 wickets when they easily reached 118 for 3 from 16 overs, to overcome Triumph’s first knock total of 117 from 20. Notable scores came from Sunil Ambris, 35, for Saints and Rohan Ash, 37, for Triumph United.

North Leeward’s 141 for 9 off 20-

overs proved too much for Police One who were all out in 15.3 overs for 111.

Damal Delpesche led for North Leeward with 31 and Parnell Browne, 26 not out, did likewise for Police.

Browne also took 3 for 25 to record a good day’s work, albeit in a losing effort.

This Saturday, from 2pm: Victors One face Saints at Sion Hill; Victors Two and Keegan’s Bequia at Arnos Vale One; Flow Radcliffe versus ASCO at Park Hill and SVG Community College take on Triumph United at Stubbs.

On Sunday, from 10am: North Leeward meet Keegan’s Bequia at Cumberland; ASCO oppose Strike Eagles at Arnos Vale 2, and Community College face Saints at Sion Hill. Beginning at 2pm: Victors Two

Desron Maloney topscored with 91 for Police Two.

Kenneth Dember’s 53 was the top individual score for Police One.

take on Police One at Arnos Vale Two; Smashers oppose Marriaqua at Stubbss and Radcliffe Two clash with North Windwards Youths at Stubbs.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Club championship into Semis FLOW RADCLIFFE and Team Rivals, with victories in last weekend remaining quarter finals matches, earned semi-final berth in the SVGCA Inaugural Club Championship 5Overs cricket tournament this weekend.

Police Two and Victors were the first two teams to

Anson Latchman - 59 for Team Rivals

qualify and will be joined by Team Rivals and Flow Radcliffe who had contrasting wins on the weekend in the final quarter final matches.

Flow Radcliffe beat their subordinates Radcliffe Two by 9 wickets. Radcliffe Two made 85 for 6 from 17 overs with a top score of 31 coming from Shawn Browne. The seniors then showed the juniors a thing

or two by catapulting to 86 for 1 in a mere 8 overs, Gidron Pope slamming 46 not out.

Team Rivals had the better of Smashers by 6 wickets. Smashers made 184 from 34 overs, Ozico Williams 33. Veterans Deighton Butler, 5 for 62, and Orlanzo Jackson, 2 for 30 holding their own with the ball. Then it was the turn of the yoyngsters,

Cody Horne 60, Anson Latchman 59, to lead Rivals to 185 for 4 in 31 overs and a semi-final berth.

The semi finals will be contested this Sunday when Police Two face Victors One at Arnos Vale One, and Team Rivals take on Flow Radcliffe at Park Hill.

Cody Horne hit 60 for Team Rivals.

I.B.A.ALLEN

New York champs Carriacou Masters cricket THERE IS A NEW champion of the Carriacou International Masters T20 Cricket Tournament.

Defending champions VINCY North East Masters were dethroned by New York Masters when the 2018 edition of the Tournament came to a close last Sunday at the Hillsborough Playing Field, Carriacou.

New York Masters batted first and lost the lone wicket of Delroy Morgan for 48 as they posted a formidable 227 for one. Dixeth Palmer topscored with 96 not out and Sudesh Dhaniram stroked 73 not out.

VINCY North East Masters showed intent but loss wickets regularly through their innings, and closed at

New York Masters – 2018 Carriacou Masters T20 champion.

197 for 9 off 20-overs. Olanzo Jackson led the batting with 38 and Deighton Butler had 33.

New York Masters received US$4,000.00 and a trophy as winners.

VINCY North East Masters pocketed US$2,000.00 and alss took home a trophy. The third and fourth place teams also walked away with US$1,000.00 each.

The other Vincentian teams among a total participation of thirteen were:Log VINCY Masters, Vincy North East Mastersrunners up.

Mustique Masters, and the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Masters.

The Carriacou Masters Cricket Tournament, known in recent times as the Carriacou International Masters Cricket Tournament, is an annual tournament organized by the management of Carriacou’s Hotel Laurena in collaboration with the Carriacou United Cricket Board. The Tournament is usually held in April.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has had regular participation in the Tournament since its inception in 2015.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN.

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 29.

Sports

Rewarding and projecting ,REWARDS for performances are always justified and there is no telling the extent to which such measures can go in motivating youngsters to accomplish a goal. There is potential, and given the right conditions, this country can be a force to reckon with in football. We have proven our mettle at the regional level.

Our boogie has been overcoming the Central American hurdle. Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica have shown the capability of taking on their CONCACAf contenders.

The Caribbean problem is consistency. We find it difficult to cover the final stages of World Cup qualifiers.

While Trinidad and Tobago missed at the hexagonal, they turned up the last gasp fillip which even though it brought them no real rewards, dumped the USA. Panama seized the opening by dint of their own sweat, and have etched a place in history.

Panama will battle England, Tunisia and Belgium in a bid to move into the second round.

No one will be giving any quarter, and it will take a brave man to wager on the outcome of any of the fixtures. Suffice it to say that connections, and power peddling will play a role in the outcome.

There is a subtle sporting culture that pervades; it is alarming the trend that influences the game at the World Cup level. The USA is a super power, but their dominance in football little.

Mexico has been the force in Concacaf, but their resilience seems to wane at the depths of World Cup advancement. Placed alongside Germany, Sweden and Korea, Mexico will have to click from the first whistle to progress.

Costa Rica has been another consistent Concacaf performer, and have shown signs of maturity. They will be inspired to prove their worth against Brazil, Switzerland and Serbia.

There will be no dull preliminary match. Focus will be on Iceland against Argentina, Croatia and Nigeria in Group D. If Iceland proceeds, there will be tremors in the two teams discarded.

I wish Colombia advances from Group H. But Poland, Senegal and Japan will have their say.

Australia and Peru may be outsiders in Group C, with France and Denmark tipped as favourites.

Portugal, Spain, Morocco and Iran make up an intriguing Group B. Russia will have home support. Saudi Arabia will spring some surprises. Uruguay is a tough contender, and Egypt’s appearances will bolster a nation whose citizens are under siege.

Interest will be on whether Sweden’s Nel Liedholm’s record of being the oldest player to score in World Cup will be broken. The Swede accomplished the feat in 1958, in the same match that Edson Arantes Do Nacimento, known as Pele, became the youngest player aged 21 years 8 months to convert. His two goals liquidated a brazen Swedish attempt to undermine the South Americans.

With one month before the start, sports lovers are counting the seconds.

Bequia Community High takes Male Basketball title THE BEQUIA Community High School champed the Secondary Schools’ Basketball Tournament’s Male Division last Thursday afternoon, at the Clive Tannis hard court in Bequia.

A tense but exciting battle against the Bequia Seventh Day Adventist in the final, eventually resulted in the Bequia Community High palming victory 85-82.

Nicholas Lewis with 32 points led the Bequia Community High’s scoring, while Jermain John had 20 points for the Bequia Seventh Day Adventist.

Lewis for his game high 32

Bequia Seventh Day Adventist

Bequia Community High School. points, was named the Most Valuable Player in the final.

In setting up the title showdown with the Bequia Seventh Day Adventist, the Bequia Community High registered a 76-33 disposal of the Union Island Secondary School.

The Bequia Seventh Day Adventist had trounced the Sandy Bay Secondary School, 121 to 29, in the other semi-final.

It was the first occasion that the final was played on Bequia.

A St Vincent and the Grenadines team to the 2018 Winlott Inc. /CBN Windward Islands Schools’ Games, slated for St Lucia in July, is expected to be selected now that the Secondary Schools’ Basketball Tournament has concluded.

Nicholas Lewis (left) accepts the Most Valuable Player Award from Director of Physical Education and Sports.

Rising Stars palm BCBA inaugural Inhouse Basketball title RISING STARS were last Friday afternoon, crowned winners of the first In —house Basketball Tournament, hosted by the Blue Chip Basketball Academy (BCBA).

Taking on Hoopsters in the final at the Girls’ High School hard court, Rising Stars came out 44-41 winners in a very competitive title match.

Cameron Thomas of Heatwave was adjudged the Most Improved Player, with Rising Stars’ Krista Bailey named as the Best Defensive Player.

Copping the Most Valuable Player of the tournament and that of his team, was Rising Stars’ Tevin Bynoe.

Also awarded were the MVPs of each of the other teams which contested the inaugural tournament.

The recipient for Heat Wave was Leymahrr Campbell; Hoopster- Lemus Christopher, while from Shell Shockers, the awardee was Ewansie Peniston.

The members of the BCBA were assigned to teams for the full court tournament. This was as a result of months of training.

Therefore, the hosting of the in- house tournament is part fulfilment of the mission of the BCBA, which is essentially to provide quality, professional Basketball

Inaugural winners of the BCBA In- house Basketball tournament – Rising Stars.

training programmes and leagues for children who are aspiring to become elite players at all levels of competition, specialising in small group skills training, competitive leagues, and youth camps.

The BCBA was established by Vincentian Kishon Bishop, a current national basketballer who is residing in North Carolina, USA. The SVG chapter of the BCBA’s operations is under the headship Tournament’s MVP – Tevin of Kendale Thomas, a former St Bynoe (left) is rewarded by Vincent and the Grenadines Chantae Williams. player.

V

30. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 11, 2018. 31.

Classifieds

Miss Esterlita Phillips (Williams) Those we love can never be more than a thought away, for as long as there’s a memory, they live in our hearts to stay.

Always missed and fondly remembered by children, grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

May you continue to Rest In Peace.

ENID MARIA LYNCH Hope For Life Restoration Ministries Sunday, May 6, 2018 Service: 4:00 p.m.

VERONICA BAPTISTE better known as Valeria Neverson Emmanuel Baptist Church South Rivers Sunday, May 6, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

VIRGINIA SUTHERLAND aka Myrielle

VERONICA ELISE JOHN

Bible Missionary Church Saturday, May 5, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Sans Souci Cemetery

St. Elizabeth Cathedral Belmont Saturday 5th May, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

SOLOMON JOHN aka Carlton Gaymes and Demus Gomea Methodist Church Thursday 3rd May 2018 Viewing: 2pm Service:3pm Interment: Church Yard Cemetery

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

MAY 11, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.19

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VINCY MAS 2018 LAUNCHED spoke of the continued work being put in to further develop the The 2018 edition of Vincy festival.

Mas was officially There was a continued launched last Saturday, effort to work with the May 5, at Victoria Park, youth, he said, so that here in Kingstown, St. the talent of tomorrow Vincent and the can be nurtured.

Grenadines.

Calypso tents have As has been the case already begun to be for the last three years or active for this season, so, there was a Adams said, and it is simultaneous launch of anticipated that there is Vincy Mas in New York. going to be more calypso (See Page 16) tents across the country.

Addressing those in “Mas Bands continue attendance, Ricardo to offer the full range of Adams — Chairman of traditional to ultrathe Carnival modern options. And Development they are well on the way Corporation (CDC), to ensuring that Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA

Ricardo Adams, Chairman of the CDC, promised enhanced venues and new attractions at CDC shows.

masqueraders have a good time on the road this year,” the CDC chairman assured.

The various pan sides are warming up, and the rural carnival committees are working on their structures.

According to Adams, these events played a critical role in the overall leading up to the national festival, and served as a point for new and emerging talent to develop.

The CDC will also

continue to work on enhancing venues, and on improving the quality and management of the various events.

Adams noted that the all-inclusive option will return this year.

A Soca Monarch Semifinal show has been included again this year, and will again be the only CDC show which allows patrons to enter with their own ice boxes.

Following on the success of its debut in

2017, Evo 4.0 will return as Evo 4.1. in 2018. It replaced the Miss Carival Show which, once again, will not be staged.

“All other shows are offering exciting innovations, including the drinks inclusive pan lime option at Steel and Glitter,” Adams said.

Tickets for all CDC shows will go on sale in the next week or so, and patrons can also purchase them online.

Mardi Gras venue still undecided AN ANNOUNCEMENT is expected to be made in the next two weeks as to the decision with respect to whether or not the Mardi Gras parade will return to Victoria Park, in 2018.

Last year, the parade was held at Little Tokyo, for the very first time.

Ricardo Adams, Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), told THE VINCENTIAN that they were in discussion with stakeholders involved in the creation of Mas. “We would like to go back to Little Tokyo, but we have to take on the views of everyone on board,” Adams

explained.

In 2017, the CDC took a decision to abandon the traditional ‘crossing of the stage’ at the Victoria Park for Mardi Gras.

Rather, masqueraders were judged at various points around Kingstown, beginning with the first point at the mini-bus terminal commonly referred to as ‘Little Tokyo’.

The decision followed

clear and ongoing declines in attendance (patronage) and revenue at the Victoria Park venue.

According to Adams, Mas Bands expressed some concerns over the move from the Victoria Park.

Fernando Sirieux, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Carnival Bands Association (CBA), said that among

the concerns was the condition of sections of the road which made it difficult to manoeuver the larger costumes, such as the King and Queen of the Bands.

Like some other Mas Band Leaders, Sirieux was of the opinion that Victoria Park has always been the venue and where the creators of Mas display the hard work put in during the

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

Masqueraders parade at Little Tokyo (left) for Vincy Mas 2017, and at Victoria Park where the parade has been held for at least six decades. months leading up to Carnival.

But the CDC seemed to support the retention of Little Tokyo as the venue, with that body offering to erect a stage for use by the masqueraders, as has been the case at Victoria Park.

Sirieux confirmed that

talks were ongoing, with another meeting of stakeholders expected to be convened some time next week, and a decision anticipated within two weeks.

“It is half and half right now,” he said when asked in what direction was the discussion leaning.

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