THE VINCENTIAN PDF- 13-03-20

FRIDAY,

MARCH 13, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.11

‘Blackfish industry’ threatened Page5

by GLORIAH/JP SCHWMON THIS WEEK WEDNESDAY, March 10, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global spread and threat of the coronavirus had reached pandemic proportions. Before that day’s end, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment (MHWE) had announced, in a scheduled media conference, that an unidentified Vincentian who had travelled to the United Kingdom and returned to St. Vincent and the Grenadines on 7th March, was confirmed this country’s first case of the infection — COVID-19.

The Case

Minister of Health Luke Browne said that the person affected was cooperating fully with Health Personnel.

Hon. Luke Browne, Minister of Health, described the situation thus: “We’ve received confirmation earlier today that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has recorded its first case of COVID-19. It is what is described in the literature as an imported case. The disease appeared in a Vincentian female who had travelled abroad to the United Kingdom, which is known to have cases of COVID 19, and returned home on March 7th, 2020.” He went on to state that the

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‘Peny Bank’ 75th Page 10

The worse avoided Page 26

EC$1.50

Preschool teacher killed Page 32

patienthad been informed of her status and was cooperating fully with the Ministry. “In fact, the patient voluntarily reported her symptoms to the Ministry on March 10th and has since then been in isolation at home under the care of competent health professionals. The symptoms are mild and we expect the patient to make a full recovery,” Minister Browne told the press conference. Based on the patient’s travel history and symptoms, health officials suspected COVID-19. These suspicions were confirmed by laboratory testing at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) laboratory in Trinidad and Tobago, with the results arriving here at 5:20pm on Wednesday, the Minister said. The affected individual — Patient Zero - is said to be within the age range 30 -35 and as such is “not in the high risk over 60 age group,” Chief Medical Officer Dr. Simone KeizerBeache confirmed. Patient zero’s home-based isolation, CMO Dr. Keizer-Beache affirmed, is “in keeping with [her] condition. This person is healthy, is not ill…. Continued on Page 3.

Widest Sports coverage Page 27-30

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache assured that this country has the capacity to isolate someone and manage them in a sufficient way.

2. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 3.

News 3 Arm yourself!

“ARM YOURSELF,” is how Dr Charmaine Bailey Rodgers, Medical Practitioner attached to the Ministry of Health here, summed up her recommended approach to dealing with the Coronavirus Disease (COVID 19). She offered the advice as she addressed a gathering at Frenches House last Monday morning. The event was a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The session was aimed at ‘coming to grips with every aspect of the outbreak’. Dr Bailey-Rodgers traced the history of the virus and presented statistics as they stood then. She laid out the state of affairs and the conditions as they related to SVG. “We are not immune,” BaileyRodgers warned as she prefaced a number of measures that citizens can take to combat the spread of the disease. She advised citizens to be mindful of crowds and how they interact with others; to practise

Right: Dr. Charmaine BaileyRodgers

improved measures of personal hygiene and sanitation, even to the extent of clothing worn and laundered; to forego non-essential travel to countries that have already been listed as having the coronavirus and to note as this list increases; to sacrifice regular lifestyle and habits. Shanika John, Health Promotion Officer, accompanied the doctor at the session, and raised the need for heightened surveillance at our ports and our borders. But the most vital aspect of the campaign against COVID 19, was to get the right information on what was happening, John said, as she observed that some people picked up information that was not credible, and tended to relay it as factual. John is hoping for outlets to enhance the promotion of reliable information. (WKA) Right: Shanika John

SVG Records first COVID-19 case Continued from Front Page. “This person is not in any significant respiratory compromise. The person is comfortable; the person is not short of breath, so this is one of the cases of a mild COVID-19 … (one that) would be managed at home.”

Assurances

In allaying the fears of the public, the Minister of Health gave assurances that the Government had been “preparing for the management of such cases by enhancing cited statistics that surveillance at ports of entry; showed, “of the 118, informing healthcare providers about 000 cases reported proper response protocols, globally, more than disseminating up-to-date information 90% of cases are in to the general public, international just four countries, travellers, and public health and two of those — partners.” China and the He also alluded to an infectious Republic of Korea — disease Isolation Unit, identified in a have significantly previous media briefing as largely a declining remote set of buildings “behind the epidemics.” Argyle International Airport, saying He was confident they were currently being renovated that “all countries with indications that that work was in can still change the an advanced stage. course of this While the completion date of that pandemic” since Dr. Tedros Adhanom, Director-General of WHO, admitted that project is not yet known, Dr. Keizersome nations have pandemic was not a word to be used lightly, but there comes a Beache reminded concerned citizens of shown “that this time when it is the reality and must be used. the existing in-country capacity. “I virus can be know everyone is very anxious about suppressed and following its introduction personnel trained the completion date, but let it not be controlled. The challenge for throughout the [Latin through detection, and that you think we have no capacity to many countries now dealing America and Caribbean] isolation of cases and isolate someone and manage them in a with large clusters or Region to handle diagnostic contact tracing; protect the sufficient way. We do have capacity. community transmission is testing. health workers as they are Our aim in terms of the facility at not whether that can do the the first line of defense; Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, Argyle is to expand that capacity and same — it’s whether they organize services to be able PAHO Director, described to have a unit that is separate.” to cope with an influx of will. Some countries are three possible situations of And as for the equipment necessary struggling with a lack of COVID-19 that countries of critical patients and to slow transmission through a to allow for the performing of incapacity. Some countries are the Region may face: multi-sectorial approach… . country tests for COVID-19, they are struggling with a lack of clusters of cases following Locally, the Health “being ordered,” the Minister assured. importation; large outbreaks resources. Some people are Ministry hosted an open All of this plus a thorough health in ‘closed spaces’ such as struggling with a lack of forum discussion with local care homes, prisons, education campaign based in the resolve.” media professionals on communities, schools, churches and Meanwhile a release from military camps, mass Tuesday, to better facilitate other groups, promised “relentlessness gatherings; and mass the Pan American Health the important role of in the efforts to reach every member of Organization dated March 6 community transmission which is more likely to occur communicating factual the population with relevant stated that “PAHO is information in a timely and information,” Minister Browne said. during flu season.” working intensively with According to Dr. Etienne, sober manner to the Vincentians are encouraged to visit countries that have the Vincentian public. three types of action could www.health.gov.vc or call 1 784 457 weakest health systems.” To 2586 for any information regarding this end, some 29 labs have be used to tackle these situations: contain the virus jp.Schwmon.vincy@gmail.com this new threat. been equipped and

WHO Declares COVID-19 a pandemic THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION (WHO) on Wednesday declared that the global threat posed by the COVID-19 outbreak has now reached pandemic levels. Dr. Tedros Adhanom, Director-General of the World Health Organization, prefaced his remarks with a real time update of the latest available data. He said, “in the past two weeks the number of cases of COVID-19 outside of China has increased 13-fold, and the number of affected countries has tripled. There are now more than 118, 000 cases in 114 countries and 4, 291 people have lost their lives…. “WHO has been assessing this outbreak around the clock, and we are deeply concerned by both the alarming levels of spread and severity and by the alarming levels of inaction. We have therefore made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. “Pandemic is not a word to use lightly or carelessly. It is a word that, if misused, can cause unreasonable fear, or unjustified acceptance that the fight is over leading to unnecessary suffering and death.” The Director-General

A coronavirus is a common type of virus that usually causes mild illnesses, but can lead to more serious infections.

V Security Officer charged with murder 4. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

a Security Officer up to the time of his arrest, has been JUST OVER a month after charged with the murder of former public servant Mitchell his once common-law-wife ‘Mitch’ Israel appeared in Court McKeisha Gumbs, 26, of Park charged with the murder of his Hill. wife Arianna Taylor-Israel, Gumbs was stabbed security office Vandyke ‘Dez’ several times in the neck King faces a charge of a similar during an incident at Park nature. Hill on March 7, the eve of The 33-year-old former International Women’s Day. police officer, who was King was not required to employed at the Argyle plead when he was taken International Airport (AIA) as before Chief Magistrate Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, and was remanded. He was unrepresented. Court Clerk Corporal Atnel Ash told the Court that the Prosecution intends to call about 15 witnesses, and requested a 3-month adjournment. The Chief Magistrate then slated the Preliminary Inquiry for June 15. Israel is awaiting a May 18

Preliminary Inquiry into his wife’s death. Taylor-Israel, a Cuban national, who was employed here as a nurse, was gunned down shortly after 3 p.m. on the compound of the St. Martin’s Secondary School where she had gone to pick up her son, a student of that school. Gumbs’ death chalked up this country’s fourth murder for the year.

Police lapse caused drug case to collapse FAILURE of the police to serve a copy of the certificate of analysis in accordance with the Drug Act, along with other issues of doubt, resulted in Michael Lavia and Daron Louie, both of Petit Bordel walking free from a major drug related case on Tuesday. The men were charged with possession of 350 grams of marijuana with intent to supply; possession of 2,269 grams of cocaine with intent to supply; possession of the cocaine for the purpose of drug trafficking, and conspiracy. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne found the men not guilty of all charges, following a trial at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. The prosecution’s evidence had revealed

that the men who were travelling from Arnos Vale in a white Corolla Toyota PQ253, December 1, 2018, were intercepted at Villa around 7:30 p.m. by a party of police officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), headed by Inspector Nolan Dalaway, acting on information received. The Corolla was driven by Lavia. What appeared to be cocaine, contained in two black taped packages, and marijuana contained in a brown taped package, were found stuck in the rear bumper of the vehicle. Nothing illegal was found on the men’s person or in the vehicle. They denied knowledge of the substance. Inspector Dalaway, under cross-examination by the men’s attorney Grant Connell, admitted

that fingerprint testing was done, but did not pick up the defendants’ fingerprints. He said the only nexus between the men and the packages was based on an electronic interview with the men, but that interview was not tendered in evidence. Under crossexamination, Connell showed Corporal Lafleur Williams a statement she prepared which confirmed that she had served only one of the defendants with a copy of the certificate of analysis of the substance. Williams had served the passenger, and not the driver of the vehicle. When the prosecution rested its case, Connell made a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had not proven custody and control of the substance,

beyond reasonable doubt. He pointed out that the investigations did not reveal where the vehicle was prior to the search, or who had access to it. The lawyer said that in the absence of this, the prosecution was unable to eliminate the possibility of the substance being placed in the rear bumper by a third party. He noted that Inspector Dalaway, Corporal Douglas Caesar and Crime Scene Specialist Constable Joel Williams, all said, under cross-examination, that the packages were removed from the rear bumper by the police with relative ease, and if given the opportunity, they could replace them without having to enter the car. Prosecutor John Ballah, however, maintained that the prosecution had proved its case, beyond reasonable doubt. The Chief Magistrate overruled Connell’s nocase submission, but the lawyer stood by his SENIOR MAGISTRATE Rickie “No, they (Process Staff) think the submission, and did not Burnett takes the issue of punctuality Court starts at 25 past 9,” the put his clients on the in his Court very seriously. Magistrate replied. stand. Burnett voiced his displeasure at “That’s the time they roll in here,” Ballah, in his closing, the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on the Prosecutor said. admitted that the case Monday, when he noticed that the Burnett contended that he could not against Louie was weak, police officers from the Process help being serious on the issue of but that the case against Department were absent. punctuality because he was trained the driver was strong. The Court, which commenced at 9 that way. But the Magistrate a.m., had already started and the “If I am here for 9, why can’t they contended that the Magistrate was dealing with a matter. be here for 9?” he questioned. certificate of analysis “The Process Staff is not here,” he The Senior Magistrate has been was not served on the observed. consistent when it comes to driver, in accordance “The Court starts at 9 a.m.,” punctuality at the Kingstown with the Drug Act. Prosecutor Curlene Samuel Magistrate’s Court. acknowledged.

Magistrate takes punctuality seriously

Vandyke ‘Dez’ King – murder accused.

Bail granted on abduction, wounding charges KINGSLEY ‘Shandie’ Chapman was granted $30,000 bail with one surety when he appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, charged with abduction and wounding. Chapman, a resident of McKie’s Hill, is accused of forcibly compelling Shanique Ashton of Diamond to go from Kingstown to Diamond. He is also accused of stabbing her with a pair of scissors. Both offences reportedly occurred on February 28, and are said to have stemmed from the same incident. Shandy was not required to plead when he stood before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Tuesday. Kingsley In objecting to bail, Court Chapman, as Clerk Corporal Atnel Ash told though feeling the Court that Chapman was ashamed after difficult to locate and a wanted the fact, hid his bulletin had to be issued. face from However, his lawyer Grant photographers Connell pointed out that this as he left the was not a ground for objecting Court last to bail. Tuesday. Connell said that his client was at home and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) was contacted by his (Connell) office, in relation to the possibility of Chapman turning himself in. This was prior to the wanted post. “If they want the job done, give it to one of the bright sparks in the police force,” he said. He singled out Inspector Dwayne Bailey of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and Sergeant Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) as two of the bright sparks. The lawyer suggested that bail could be granted, with conditions attached to ensure that the accused shows up when the matter is called. Bail was granted on condition that Chapman surrender his travel documents and report to his nearest police station twice a week. He was also placed on a dusk to dawn curfew, and ordered not to contact the virtual complainant. Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 5.

Business

Invest SVG to restructure “INVEST SVG, the agency for the government that is responsible for attracting Foreign Direct Investment…. (is) to start developing the export sector.” Annette Marks, Executive Director of Invest SVG, announced the imminent enhancements at this country’s primary investments promotion agency while addressing a networking event facilitated by Export St. Lucia and Invest SVG, held at the Beachcombers Hotel last Monday. Mark, in fact, told the gathering, “Invest SVG will be restructuring our agency later on this year. Actually, by the end of

March, we will start the restructuring process and we will officially make Invest SVG a trade and investment promotions agency.” Speaking exclusively with THE VINCENTIAN, the Executive Director further explained, “We are developing a five years strategic plan and we want to do it in line with the government’s national plan, so we want to look at where we are and make sure that we are in keeping with what government has in the plan. “And because we are also augmenting the export development department, we want to make sure that we set

the agency in such a way that we have the right people for the right jobs. So, it would be the same staff but they would be trained… .” Additionally, the Agency would also be setting in place a monitoring and evaluation system to evaluate the projects currently underway. Mark was also confident that the restructuring process would roll out smoothly, providing all things remain equal. “We’re hoping that it starts at the end of March, the financing is already in place. We’ve already gotten the funding for it and I believe that the

Obedient son picks up half million $$ THERE IS the saying: ‘Children obey your parents.’ In the case of St. Lucian born Jkwon Freeman, that advice paid off handsomely March 3, 2020. The numbers which his mother provided him turned him into a Super Six Jackpot winner. Those numbers were: 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, and 26. Freeman purchased that ticket at the Lions Club Booth, and the combination provided Jkwon Freeman (left) gladly accepts his cheque him with winnings of from NLA General Manager MacGreggor Sealey. $534,000. It seemed that Lady As it turned out, he found the Luck was knocking on Freeman’s winning numbers on the third stash door. A regular Super 6 player, two of tickets. Thereafter, it was weeks prior, four of his numbers were excitement for him. He claimed that called. He picked up $25 on that he returned to bed, but “couldn’t occasion. sleep.” Disappointed but undaunted by the He cross-checked the numbers for small amount, he decided to add an confirmation. additional $41 to the winnings, and Freeman admits that it was a purchased $66.00 worth of tickets, for “surprise,” but he believes it must as he summed up: “You have to be in have been destiny. it to win it.” He operates a company called JLK As if something might have been Freights Services, and confessed that haunting him, Freeman disclosed that he was: “going through some “I couldn’t sleep,” on the night of the challenges. It came at the right time,” draw. Freeman indicated. The next morning, he went on line He thanked God for his blessings, and perused the numbers. According and responding to National Lotteries to him, “I was going to throw away Authority Manager McGregor Sealey, the tickets,” because he felt he was vowed to “make the best of it.” (WKA) going through a useless exercise.

A display of goods by St. Lucian export ready businesses. consultants are already in place. We’re just waiting now to do some paperwork in respect to that. The Caribbean Development Agency is the funding agency. I’m saying that, but we’ve not yet signed the documents though they’ve already indicated verbally that it’s going to happen. Mark said. Meanwhile, the networking event, staged with the primary objective of bringing together St. Lucian and Vincentian businesses ‘in the hope of forging new

alliances and collaborations’, featured a thirteen-member St. Lucian trade promotions contingent of export ready businesses, manning booths filled with samples, brochures or both of their products and/or services. Both investment promotions entities are expected to remotely sign a delayed Memorandum of Understanding. The St. Lucian contingent’s next stop is Grenada. JP.Schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

Annette Mark Executive Director Invest SVG.

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6. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Is the ÂBlackfish industryÊ threatened?

Professor Russell Fielding disclosed finding that could bring the local Blackfish Industry under intense scrutiny. FOR DECADES, the people of the western coastal town of Barrouallie have made a decent living

through whaling and the attendant ‘Black Fish Industry’. Now, the future of that occupation and industry appears bleak. This is based on the findings of Russell Fielding, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of the South in Tennessee, United States, who is currently on a research sabbatical at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. Professor Fielding’s studies have revealed high levels of mercury in samples of the shortfinned pilot whale, commonly referred to as ‘Blackfish’, and other cetaceans. According to the Professor, while delivering a presentation

‘The Future of whaling in the Eastern Caribbean’ at the Carnegie Hall, Old Public Library last Monday, samples tested in the United States have revealed that meat, muscle and blubber taken from over 200 local cetacean species tested, contained as much as 20.5 parts per million of the poisonous substance. Professor Fieldman was forthright about what should transpire from here on. “Even though I cannot see a way to overcome these numbers, it is not my job to do that. This is the job of the Vincentian people,” he stressed. “This is the challenge that you are faced with. What are we going to do about it?” he questioned.

Islands

conducting research, moving around the country to test the level of mercury in people. “Mercury is just the tip of the iceberg, there are other pollutants,” the Professor warned. “The products being found were not put here from any industry here in St Vincent, there is an element of injustice there,” he continued. When contacted, Senior Fisheries Officer Jennifer Cruickshank acknowledged that she did see a copy of the report presented to the Fisheries Division, but said that there has been no further discussion on it. “Nothing has come from the policy makers on this,” Cruickshank told THE VINCENTIAN. In terms of the future of the local blackfish

industry, the fisheries official indicated that she had no information on that issue.

According to the Professor, there was a similar issue in the Mercury poisoning Faroe Islands where whaling, like St Vincent Mercury poisoning is and the Grenadines, has slow, with most people been part of the people’s often not realizing that heritage for centuries. they are being poisoned. They too hunted a Methylmercury or relative of the shortmercury dissolved in finned pilot whale and water being congested, consumed large can lead to neurological quantities of it. That is (brain and nervous until the 1970s when it system) and genetics was discovered that issues. there were pollutants, Some of the other particularly mercury, in health complications the meat. associated with long The contamination term exposure are moved from one and a blindness and double half parts per million in vision, the inability to the 1970s to 2 parts by walk well, memory 2012. problems, seizures and But even before that, death for persons in 2006, Health officials exposed in large began issuing dietary quantities. (DD) Learning from the Faroe recommendations and declared that the meat from that species of pilot whale should not be considered for human consumption. For the future, Professor Fielding said that he is going Short-finned pilot whale hauled on to the beach at to continue Barrouallie (Credit: Hot 97.1FM - Facebook Page)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 7.

People

Morrison Baisden (2nd from right front) accepts his Award of Recognition from Minister of Culture Cecil Mc Kie in the company of members of the SVG National Trust. Morrison Baisden was honoured for his life’s work in uncovering the history and heritage of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Baisden honoured

EARLY IN HIS LIFE, Morrison Baisden developed a love for archaeology and history. The Rose Place, Kingstown native followed those early instincts and literally lived and kept an ongoing interest in Vincentian history and heritage. For his unselfish work in unearthing and highlighting both, Baisden was honoured by the SVG National Trust at a ceremony held on March 6, at the Curators House at the Botanical Gardens. Graduation from the St. Vincent Grammar School led to early employment in the field of agriculture, and training at the Agricultural Institute in Trinidad. The training intensified his quest for knowledge of the past, and he plunged headlong in a search for St. Vincent’s past. That search was almost a daily one, and one that some of his colleagues described as a religion. Whether it was during his tenure at the Crop Protection Unit at the Agricultural Ministry, Windward Islands Banana Growers Association, Caribbean Conference of Churches, or the Development Corporation, Baisden looked and often discovered more and more of this country’s history and heritage. Baisden himself noted that a lot of this country’s history lies outside its shores. He made every effort to recapture this history. Wherever the

information rested, he pursued it with vigour. He found an early ally in Dr Earle Kirby, noted local archaeologist and historian, and Baisden, by virtue of this and other connections, stands out today as one of this country’s primary sources of knowledge generally about our country’s past and traditions. Baisden came in for praise from Forestry Officer Fitzgerald Providence who considered the honouring as timely. The scarcity of information on the nation’s history and heritage was noted, and Baisden was promoted as one on whom students especially can call upon for such information. Former Culture Minister Rene Baptiste is satisfied that Baisden is a well into which students can dip for information on this country. If Louise Mitchell, Trustee of the National Trust has her way, Baisden’s input would be an integral part of any effort aimed at collating this country’s historical data. Like Baptiste, Mitchell pointed out Baisden as an ideal source of local history. Minister of Culture, Cecil McKie is convinced that Baisden is a platform of Vincentian heritage, and for him, Baisden’s honouring is appropriate and timely. Baisden, for his part, expressed gratitude to his mentor Dr Earle Kirby, and thanked the National Trust for their recognition. (WKA)

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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Coronavirus in our company JUST AS THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) officially declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic and rightly drew attention to the risks the virus poses to the poorest and most vulnerable nations, our Ministry of Health declared that there was one confirmed case of the disease (COVID 19) in SVG. As it stands now, we will need all the help we can get, especially when we have no intention of “closing our borders.” Yes, we are among the most vulnerable, but spare a prayer for Africa, which will soon be welcoming back thousands of China’s citizens who are returning to their jobs on that continent, after an extended New Year holiday. And don’t think for one minute that China will put a block on its expansionist intentions. As a result, the WHO has scrambled to equip 14 (vulnerable) countries with diagnostics, expertise and equipment to detect and contain the virus. The agency has also appealed for US$675 million to assist vulnerable countries – an amount that it estimates will last only until the end of April. In the face of this new threat, it is hard to avoid the feeling of déjà vu. Infectious-disease outbreaks are often accompanied by pledges to improve disease surveillance, and to provide funds for drugs if not vaccines, not only in the developed world but moreso at the local/country level of less developed countries like ours. But sadly, as is our reality, what is less forthcoming is sustainable funding for clinics providing community-level general medicine, and for investments to sustain hospitals/clinics with (basic) supplies, not least being drugs. Sustainable funding is the foremost requisite if we are to prevent, combat any virus invasion. A temporary surge of assistance aimed at combating the coronavirus diseases —

COVID 19 - is happening now in our land. There is a buzz about our health officials. The thing is that this temporary assistance might suffice in places where health systems are reasonably robust. But for the poorest countries with the weakest systems (like SVG?), even the best projects will struggle once this upsurge of assistance comes to an end. The thing is, further, that even though we might not have the strongest health system in the world and could well do with assistance to prop it up in the face of a confirmed case of COVID 19 among us, providing for the upkeep of our health system ought to be a recurring responsibility of the local government. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus referenced in a statement at the end of February, that seven of the nations that the WHO will be helping, scarcely have one nurse per 1,000 people. Given our grandiose statements about the improvement in our health system, we are wont to stay far away from such statistical company. Clearly, finding solutions to the coronavirus disease and the problems associated with it, will not be easy, but avoidance is not an acceptable option and, if the truth be told, we are trying desperately to show that we are not avoiding the situation. The march of the coronavirus reminds us yet again that we pay attention to epidemics only when an infection is on our doorsteps. We must recognize that the time to think about the next epidemic is now. There is much that we have to change about our attitudes to a number of things. And while we have to seriously address our political culture which might, in the end, offer up more mature action to other social and economic issues, we cannot afford to play games with our nation’s health.

The halo around our national hero THE DEED IS DONE, thanks heavens, Vincentians can now rest reasonably comfortable with the assurance that we have a national hero to look up to, who is one of our own people, sprung from the bowels of this land. For make no bones about it, a condition of human existence is that there be symbols whether persons, institutions, or even sagas or myths to which we could have recourse in times of adversity, in quest of solace or consolation to endure, or inspiration to fight back. Until now we have had to make do with certain heroes though not openly sung or formally declared the problem is that they have been the anti-heroes in disguise-the Raleighs, Drakes, Hawkins and Morgans who helped to colonize and enslave us mind, body and soul. It has been truly said that nothing colonizes like colonialism! And when that philosophy utilizes a tool-kit comprising slavery and racism, the trap is complete, demanding an act of will, an operation boot-strap, a veritable quantum leap to break free from the vicious circle of inferiority-dependency. So Chatoyer has a large bill to fill. Hopefully, we can deal over time with the symptoms that linger, once we have rid ourselves of the disease that sprang from our docile acceptance of having been created in an image not our own. Marcus Garvey had tried to clean that holy mess at the turn of the last century, and failed badly. He had even caused the disillusionment of our “Star to Steer” by Captain Hugh Mulzac who skippered ships of Garvey’s Black star Line. T. Albert Marryshow, a Grenadian, had with Cipriani in Trinidad, helped in the formation in the islands of Representative Government Associations with the slogan Crown Colony Rule must go. George Mc Intosh, our own tribune of the people, had been associated with Marryshow in his dream to make these lands more conscious of the vitality of the Black Race, and recognise the need to get their act together in a Federation of the West Indies. Joshua fell on all fours behind Mc Intosh on land distribution, freedom of religion that included “The Local Shakers”, education for the masses and adult suffrage as a stepping- stone to serious political development. Original leader of the 8th Army of Liberation, George Charles, was the first to call for the replacement of Iron Man by one of our own, George Mc Intosh. I was to suggest Chatoyer at the time the cenotaph was removed from Bay Street in the late 1990s.

Indeed, Hilary Beckles would be pleased to learn that during stormy sessions of the House in the 1950s, Joshua had repeatedly called for official reparation to the Carib peoples by way of the return to them of large tracts of land of which they had wrongfully been dispossessed by British settlers. Mitchell and his NDP went a long way to meeting this claim in the Rabacca Farms Project during the latter part of the 1980’s when a historical wrong was righted! So, contrary to what goes on in the Family Court, there have been no shortage of claimants to the paternity of the regaled Chatoyer as first National Hero. It is an historical investment in which the dividends have largely been reaped by the incumbent ULP. Of significant, too, has been the role of members of the Old Kingstown Study Group and the people, who were largely responsible directly or indirectly for the stimulating intellectual and educational atmosphere which formed the back-drop to the coronation. Firstly, the booklet written by Earl Kirby and Cims Martin on the Caribs, was recalled into service to kick off the new thrust. Cims was a regular contributor to the ‘Flambeau’, organ of the Kingstown Study Group. Secondly, an epic poem composed on Chatoyer in the genre of Homer the Greek master of this type of verse, was read by Marcia Harold on the late evening of March 13th, as an intellectual fanfare to herald our New Hero. Marcia, together with Norma Keizer and Joyce Peters-Mc Kenzie, was a committed member of the Kingstown Study Group. Then there was Edgar Adams, at whose timely publication, “People on the Move” Marcia had been invited to make a guest appearance. Edgar was a most ardent foundation member of the Kingstown Study Group, as well and his ascent to Olympus in the field of local history has caused a great deal of nose-swelling. Dr. Adrian Fraser was most active during the run-up to March 14th, lightening the way with his scholarship in discussion groups, radio and T.V programmes and the rest. Continued on Page 22.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 9.

Letters

Guyana election turmoil I HAVE BEEN keenly following events around the election in Guyana. Out of my past involvement with election problems in that country, I remain deeply concerned that the people of Guyana should always have a credible government respected by the international community. I became involved long ago in February 1985 in the election when President Hoyte succeeded President Burnham, and the election irregularities created difficulties for us in Caricom, not wanting to be seen as silent.

It was with colleague Prime Ministers in Mustique that we resolved the issue and created the framework for election observation in Guyana. As a matter of fact, I had subsequently to follow up with Dr. Jagan and assure him at a breakfast meeting in Jamaica that he could trust the presence of international observers, for which we had secured approval by President Hoyte in Mustique . He was contemplating not to participate. Again, on the subsequent election tension after the election

of Mrs. Jagan, I was delegated by the Caricom Heads of Government in St Lucia, to mediate between President Janet Jagan and former President Desmond Hoyte. We were able to resolve the issues. May I also urge all parties to ensure peace and be sensitive to the fact that Guyana’s looming prosperity will not be achieved should the United States and Europe in particular not be satisfied with the legitimacy of the government. We in the Caribbean are anxious to see confidence firmly

established in Guyana. Let me repeat: Out of my deep concern for the security and well-being for the people of Guyana and my love of the country, with due respect, I urge President Grainger not to proceed with being sworn in until the electoral procedure is complete, in a manner that satisfies Caricom and the international community. Timely action is the essence. Sir James Mitchell Former Prime Minister St Vincent and the Grenadines Founder New Democratic Party.

PANCAP: Statement on IWD 2020 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY (IWD) is celebrated annually on 8 March. This year, the theme is: “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights”. The theme is aligned with the United Nations’ Women’s new multigenerational campaign, Generation Equality, which marks the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. International Women’s Day is a day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s

equality. In the Caribbean, women play an important role in community building, nurturing families, national and regional development, inter alia. Women live very progressive lives in some parts of the world. Their lives have, however, not been without certain struggles. In other parts of the world, they continue to struggle for equality and remain oppressed, and face specific issues, such as domestic abuse, genderbased violence, and the lack of access to education, jobs and health care.

Women account for more than half the number of People Living with HIV worldwide. Young women (10-24 years old) are twice as likely to acquire HIV as young men of the same age. HIV disproportionately affects women and adolescent girls because of the vulnerabilities created by unequal cultural, social and economic status. As we celebrate IWD, let us, therefore, reflect on the women in our lives - our teachers, our doctors, our nurses, our grandmothers, our mothers, our wives, our sisters, our aunts, our daughters, our nieces,

Patel vs. Carlos THIS IS election year, and Patel is going crazy with meetings, while Carlos is busy at work. If the truth be told, Patel as a representative has failed the people of North Leeward, while Carlos, although not a representative, has given representation to the people of North Leeward and continues to do so. Thus, I think he should be elected to Parliament and Patel be sent home to continue operating his shop. The excuse that he is not in power and is the opposition so he can’t help people, even his own supporters, I say is utter rubbish and shows his laziness as a parliamentarian. On the other hand,

Carlos while not yet a representative, has taken money from his own pocket and helped persons of North Leeward. He has been mixing and mingling with the people. He has sponsored persons going to Community College through Generation Next. North Leeward has seen an improvement in its infrastructures such as bridges, concrete road paths, the German and English gutter defence, the Cumberland playing field and many more that can be listed. However, I am not a politician so I would rest my case. I will say this though: When election calls, it is time that North

Leeward returns to the government side, and this can only happen if the voters from North Leeward vote solidly for CARLOS JAMES. A political observer

our friends - and recognise the important roles they have been playing to make the world a better place for all of us. PANCAP recognises the importance of women in our society and their struggle for an equal world. We support their development and will work to ensure that the rights of women are addressed and advanced, particularly in areas related to HIV and AIDS, sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence. PANCAP, therefore, salutes all women on this their very special day. Dr Rosmond Adams Director of PANCAP

2019 CSEC Results: Geography CONGRATULATIONS are in order for our students and teachers of Geography, for recording an 82% pass rate in the 2019 CSEC Examinations. Our position in the world is a little more established and secured. Everyone, the world over, is searching for us on the map. We want them not only to look for us because we are on the United Nations Security Council, but also to visit us and discover us and explore our limitless beauty, beaches, and our Botanical Gardens, our wonderful wildlife on land and sea, our culture and festivals. In every school where Geography is taught, a Weather Station can be established that would provide daily weather reports to the school and perhaps the community and country. Our weather patterns are changing. This information can be gathered by students to benefit our farmers and our Tourist Industry. I recall one Day -Tour operator promising a refund if it rains. The uncertainty of the weather caused this to be discontinued. Our students can also monitor the local volcanoes and help to manage our disaster preparedness plans and drills. A knowledge of our country’s Geography would enable us to better advertise our tourist attractions to our relatives, friends and visitors. Timely statistics from our census would help us plan for schools, health facilities, sporting facilities, transportation needs, land use, food security and the economy. We should make every effort to publish the calendar of cultural events of local communities so local and foreign visitors can make their travel plans early. Our knowledge of Geography should result in us taking pride in our country and its culture. We need an intimate knowledge of our natural and nurtured beauty, our culture, and our heritage so that we can share more than sea, sand and sun. Anthony Stewart, PhD

The ÂMitchÊ I knew I SEE THAT our alma mater (St. Martin’s) was the scene of an incident that I am certain none who passed through its doors or even those who are there currently, would ever imagine could have happened there. But that is life, I suppose. ‘Mitch’ Israel, I remember as a fellow student and as one of those persons who caused St. Martin’s to take an early stance with respect to Rastafari. ‘Mitch’ and another chap, whose name slips me, were allowed to don their ‘locks’, covered during class, once their parents had put in writing that they supported their sons’ ‘way of life’. To the

best of my knowledge, never did any of those two fellow students try to influence their colleagues, and never did they bring to school or espouse anything about marijuana. And I recall a certain person who is now a newspaper editor, spending time enlightening us about Rastafari. So much so, it was after those classes and awakening that we sought out reading material on Marcus Garvey, Haile Selassie and others. Caribbean History took on new meaning, so to speak, not that the person to whom I referred ever made the subject anything other

than interesting and left a thirst for more information. I am sad for Mitch, but I am moved also by the fact that none of his peers could have reached out to him. This is not to take sides, for I am well aware now of what his wife went through; but my point, Mr. Editor, is that too often us men are too weak to own up to our shortcomings; we are too afraid to level with our peers that ‘things are not all right’. I pray that ‘Mitch’s’ children will not bear this burden throughout their lives and that he will find peace with himself and his God. Garnet, NY

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10. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

The members of staff were connected then, Millington added, and that is the attitude that has been maintained among the workers today. “Once we see that there is something that needs to be addressed, then we address it,” Millington said. was required to open an Bank’ has matured into one of And while banking has account, earning it the name the country’s outstanding ‘Penny Bank’ — the ‘Poor financial institutions, evolving changed over the years, so too has the clientele of the Co-op Man’s Bank’. from a small staff equipped Bank. The bank was incorporated with adding machines and According to Tyrell, the in 1944; however, its doors typewriters, to a fully profile of the types of clients were officially opened to the computerized operation has changed over time to now public on February 1, 1945 manned by a highly skilled include professionals and under the guidance of its cohort of employees, to better business people. founder Ormond Cyril ‘OC’ assist the growing number of She emphasized, though, Forde, whose intention it was customers. Ormond Cyril ‘OC’ Forde – that the bank continues to And those customers can Founder and First Manager of to offer credit and banking carry on the vision of its services to those of the society, now access services that the St. Vincent Co-operative founder to encourage people to who could not access services include: Savings Accounts, Bank. save, especially now through from the international banks Residential Mortgages, Fixed its outreach programme to operating in St. Vincent and Deposits, Consumer and persons under 16. SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS have the Grenadines at that time. Commercial Loans. “We encourage the parents passed since the St Vincent CoWhen the senior Forde to encourage their children to operative Bank (Co-op Bank) retired in 1974, he was Togetherness – The Hallmark save,” Tyrell said. opened its doors to business, succeeded as the bank’s A significant part of the but the objective remains the manager by his son Kenneth There were only 10 same today as it was then, i.e. Forde, who successfully members of staff when Carlita bank’s success, however, is that people enjoy that the St to make it easy for members of managed the growth of the Tyrell, Savings Manager, Vincent Co-operatve Bank is the public to acquire a solid bank until his retirement in joined the staff 34 year ago. all local, and that while they financial footing through saving. 2007. “And what I met, it was a And a penny was all that Over the years, the ‘Co-op people-oriented organization — have to adhere to the country’s banking rules and regulations, we reached out to our decisions can be made in a customers,” Tyrell said. quicker time than other “There was camaraderie financial institutions. among the staff. You felt at home, you felt that it was Clients stay with the bank somewhere that you can work.” Kenrick Jacobs said that he The staff has since first opened an account at the increased to 30, and Claudius bank as a youngster, but Millington — Senior Accounts started doing business with Clerk, who has been an the financial institution in employee for the past 32 1980 after landing himself a years, noted that there was a job and a steady income. need for more space, which “I did business with them resulted in the re-location throughout the years,” he said. from the Middle He insists that he Street/Heritage Square location to the present location remembers the very first at the corner of Bay Street and experience doing business with the bank and vows that he has Heritage Square, in the Blue always been impressed with Together, Carlita Tyrell (left) and Claudius Millington have Caribbean Building. the quality of service he has given 66 years of service to the Co-op. The Co-op Bank’s location on Middle Street and Heritage Square.

received. And that appreciation has been passed on from generation to generation, with Jacobs’ children and grandchildren all having existing saving accounts with the bank. Former educator Franklyn ‘FI’ Jack said that he has been doing business with the bank for over 40 years, following in the footsteps of his father who started doing business with the bank in the late 1940s, shortly after it was opened. “I like dealing with a local entity and local people,” he said. Doing business with the bank has caused him to interact with individuals whom he taught. “Dealing with the bank with that connection, makes me feel at ease in that if I have a problem, I am interfacing with somebody whom I know in an amicable and respectful manner,” Jack said. (DD)

Franklyn Jack has been with the bank for over 40 years.

Kenrick Jacobs has seen two generations of family follow him into becoming customers of the Co-op Bank.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 11.

Views

Foreign Affairs

Excerpts from the 2020 Budget Address Budget 2020 adds 10 posts to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to help 2019 was a proud and triumphant year for support our new responsibilities and influence. In Vincentian foreign policy. We opened a addition to staffing support at our new embassy in Taiwan, to facilitate foreign missions, Budget 2020 increased opportunities for trade and strengthens foreign policy, planning and investment, to improve service to our hundreds of university students there, and research departments locally. These to strengthen the bonds of friendship with additions will ensure that we have the our ally and with other Asian governments. capacity to effectively represent the We welcomed the Presidents of Ghana and interests of Vincentians at this time of Taiwan, and hosted the Prince of Wales, on heightened global influence and access. Fortuitously, Saint Vincent and the official visits. We oversaw official visits by Grenadines will chair the Caribbean the Prime Minister to a number of Community (CARICOM) during its countries, including the United Arab tenure on the Security Council. Our Emirates, the Seychelles and India. chairmanship begins in July 2020, with Our Foreign Minister, the the hosting of the Conference of indefatigable Sir Louis Straker, CARICOM Heads of State and crisscrossed the globe to advocate on Government. Budget 2020 makes behalf of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in multilateral forums, and appropriate provisions for these to seek opportunities for Vincentians in additional responsibilities. bilateral engagements. Our consular The Diaspora representatives in Canada and New According to data from the Economic York, as well as our representatives in the UK, Cuba and Venezuela, continued Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the Vincentian to exceed expectations in their Diaspora includes 60,655 citizens who facilitation of business opportunities, now live abroad — more than half of our their service to Diaspora communities and their delivery of tangible benefits to local population. These 60,655 Vincentians do not include the tens of Vincentians at home. thousands more who are eligible to At the United Nations, our claim Vincentian citizenship by descent. Ambassador concluded Saint Vincent Our Diaspora is large, and it is an and the Grenadines’ successful tenure as President of the Economic and Social important component of our Vincentian Council — an extraordinary achievement family — culturally, historically and economically. Indeed, some estimates of at the heart of shaping the global remittances from the hardworking development agenda. By those accomplishments, 2019 would have been Vincentian Diaspora place their value in excess of 5% of GDP, a significant an impressive — even unprecedented — year for our country on the world stage. contribution. A firm pillar of our foreign policy is to But in last year’s budget speech, we build and enhance our familial and staked out an even greater ambition. business connections with the We predicted that “[2019] has the Vincentian Diaspora. As repositories of potential to be an historic one in the experience, of new perspectives, and of annals of Vincentian and Caribbean foreign policy,” and set the nation’s eyes overseas political clout, our Vincy Diaspora is underutilized. So too are on the 7th June, 2019 election of opportunities in Saint Vincent and the countries to serve a two-year term on Grenadines under-exploited by Diaspora the United Nations Security Council, the world’s highest deliberative body on residents seeking to invest and expand their businesses. We can do more matters of global peace and security. together. Our consular officers in the Our bid was ambitious and audacious. main centres of Vincentian migrants are No country as small as Saint Vincent committed to drawing us closer and the Grenadines had ever been together, and in finding areas of elected to the Security Council. Measured by population, by economic common interest. Our tourism officials are anxious to bring you home to visit power, or by military might, the on direct flights to Argyle. Our Vincentian candidacy represented an unheard-of attempt by a small, poor and investment officers are keen to explain marginalized nation to sit as one of only the opportunities available to returning residents and Diaspora investors. Let us 15 countries on the most exclusive and work together. Our Regional Integration influential multilateral institution in and Diaspora Unit plans important the world. But measured by the strength of our convictions, the power of activities in 2020 to develop these natural ties for mutual benefits that go our ideas, or the accuracy of our Prime Minister’s frequent mantra that “we are beyond remembrances and remittances. Importantly, 2020 promises to be a not better than anybody, but nobody is year of unprecedented prominence and better than us,” our candidacy was influence for Vincentian foreign policy, timely, necessary and merited. The owing to our position on the Security international community overwhelmingly agreed. By a vote of 185 Council, our upcoming Chairmanship of CARICOM, and our commitment to act to six against our opponent, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines became the as a friend to all as we strive for a better world. Crucial, crosscutting smallest country in the 75-year history developmental issues, from climate of the United Nations elected to the change to correspondent banking to Security Council. hemispheric and international tensions will all require Vincentian input and National and Regional Pride guidance. Our voice will be heard, and Our election has triggered an heard to benefit the Vincentian and outpouring of national and regional pride. We began our two-year term last Caribbean people. At all times, our foreign policy and our advocacy will be month, and now sit daily with high firmly rooted in immutable principles of officials from China, France, Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, United Kingdom, United States, Belgium, Dominican Republic, Estonia, international law and Small Island Exceptionalism. Germany, Indonesia, Niger, South There are those people who see Africa, Tunisia, and Vietnam. Ours is principle as an ever-changing, malleable one of only 15 voices discussing, debating and deciding the thorniest and concept, to be surrendered at the first sign of adversity or opportunity. And most contentious issues of war, peace, there are those people who see life and death. While the responsibility sovereignty, birthright and patriotism is profound, our pride is immense. We as cheap commodities to be bartered and have every confidence that we will traded for a metaphoric 30 pieces of represent the perspectives of small island states, our Caribbean region and silver. Those people exist. But not within the Vincentian people with intelligence this Government. and principled activism. Introduction

Yurumein - Homeland of Garifuna ON SATURDAY 14TH MARCH, 2020, Vincentians will celebrate National Heroes Day – a day when we reflect on the struggles of the Garifuna and the role played by paramount Chief, the Rt. Excellent Joseph Chatoyer, as they fought to fend off the French and British who sought to rob them of their rights, their land, their heritage, and break their spirit. The Garifuna were exiled by the British from St. Vincent (Yurumein) to Roatan Island, and over two hundred years after, they still recognize Yurumein as their Motherland. Our exiled Garifuna family has done remarkably well over the years. It is a remarkable story, not only of survival, for they have gone way beyond that in growth and prosperity and the maintenance of their language and culture. Approximately five thousand Garifuna were sent to Balliceaux, and the estimated number worldwide now is over seven hundred thousand.

island of Balliceaux, and then to the island of Roatan off the coast of Honduras. Even after the surrender, however, the Black Caribs did not accept this easily. After the Carib chiefs were sent back to report the decision to their people, with orders to respond within 4 days, the majority again disappeared into the woods and only 280 left for Balliceaux. Abercrombie’s troops were again sent to track down the natives and bring them in. The Caribs responded as before, with an attempt at guerrilla warfare. This time the British responded by laying waste to the Caribs settlements and torching their provisions. At one point, Chatoyer’s son had offered to surrender along with his large number of followers, but had again disappeared before they could be The Struggle conveyed off the island. In the end, however, the policy of burning It is recorded that during the war provisions wore them down and the with the British; the Black Caribs people became destitute. The British attacked from the Leeward side with sent two of the captives from Duvalle, and from the Windward side Balliceaux to the people to explain with Chief Chatoyer. Working his way how well they were being treated, along the coast. Chatoyer met up with which turned out to be highly his French supporters, and together successful, for about 5080 Caribs the forces worked their way to turned themselves in. (Excerpts from Dorsetshire Hill, from where they St, Vincent and the Grenadines-a would launch their attack on plural country and the Second Carib Kingstown. Chatoyer, from all War) accounts, was an intelligent and charismatic leader. His followers Declaration of Intent considered him to be invincible. However, it was reported that We recall that in 2015, the New Chatoyer was killed on March 14th, Democratic Party (NDP) invited a 1795, in a fight with British Major Garifuna delegation to St. Vincent Leith. and the Grenadines. A number of In 1796, Lieutenant General Sir activities were held, following which a Ralph Abercrombie arrived in St. Declaration of Intent was signed Vincent with a force of more than between the NDP and the Garifuna. 4000 men, and forced the Carib The declaration states that: “The leaders to surrender. The Caribs did NDP and the Garifuna delegation not forget their allies, and insisted hereby agree to deepen the that the French be included in the relationship between the Garifuna negotiations. From this point on, the nation and Yurumein in the following Black Caribs did their best to evade manner: conditions by supporting and the British, disappearing for days at a encouraging exchange programmes in time into the woods, prolonging the the areas of culture, education, health negotiations for surrender. and sports; developing and The sentiments among the British disseminating the Garifuna language on the island were that the planters and culture in Yurumein and in could no longer coexist with the Garifuna populations elsewhere; Caribs. Sir William Young’s account of forging alliances for the purposes of the Black Caribs in the island of St. trade in goods and services, with Vincent, published in England in great emphasis being placed on 1795, was a long history of the Black tourism; highlighting the socioCaribs and English on St. Vincent, economic and socio-political conditions primarily justifying the actions taken under which Garifuna exist in by the English, and ending with a Yurumein and elsewhere; powerful argument that the Caribs strengthening the spiritual bond and needed to be removed from the island. re-establishing the historical link Among his points were: “The Caribs between the inhabitants of Yurumein combination of barbarous and of and the Garifuna nation; and the national enmity is not to be broken, collaborative efforts mentioned will be and that the Caribs will ever be pursued within the context of the French. The nation can have no Honorary Citizenship programme. further confidence in the treaty. “The NDP and the Garifuna British planters would no longer have delegation do promise to continue confidence returning to their collaborative efforts to expedite the plantations as long as they were still process of building closer ties with in fear of another Carib uprising”. each other, and realizing the dream of He ended the account with the making St. Vincent and the statement: “Under all these Grenadines the spiritual home of all circumstances and considerations, the Garifuna at home and abroad.” Council and Assembly of St Vincent, In responding to the NDP’s in the instructions to their agent in proclamation, Dr. Gonsalves and the London, declare the sole alternative to ULP sought to lengthen our be, that the British planters, or the separation by conjuring fears that the Black Caribs must be removed from Garifuna honorary citizens will come the island of St Vincent”. to take away our jobs, our lands and In the end, the sentiments our houses. What a shame! We must prevailed, and the Black Caribs, reiterate that the NDP is committed whom we know now to be Garifuna, to working closer with our Garifuna were forced to agree to an brothers and sisters when it returns unconditional surrender, whereby to office. they would be removed first to the

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12. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views Ganging up on progress

Invisible women

“Women have, commonly, a very positive moral sense; that which they will, is right; that which they reject, is wrong; and their will, in most cases, ends by settling the moral.” - Henry Brooks Adams (1838–1918) US author, historian, son of Charles Francis Adams, grandson of John Quincy Adams IT IS OFTEN BENEFICIAL to reflect on the progress that we have made over time. Such an exercise is useful for individuals, families, organisations, communities and nations. Some changes are gradual and therefore hardly noticeable. Others, however, occur with such rapidity that they appear to jolt us into the realisation that life, with all of its complexities, requires that we adjust to change or be left behind. Persons who have worked in offices over the last twenty years, could identify with the mental challenges that emerge if they were to rekindle memories of their office of two decades ago. In those days, most of the telephones would have been black and “clumsy”; not the wide range of colours or sleek appearances that we now have. The offices of the late 1980s would not have had any telefax machines or scanners. However, a few offices would have had telex machines. Some readers would have a great challenge trying to remember what such a machine looked like and how it worked. Our younger readers who are attending primary and secondary schools may not be aware that such a machine ever existed. Offices have changed. We have changed. Society has changed. The black conscious and black power movements of the late 1950s and 1960s opened the doors for many blacks (throughout the world but especially in the United States of America) to traverse the maze of colour prejudice and discrimination. Although many men would have pushed for the colour barriers to be removed, we must recognize that many women also championed the cause. The name Rosa Parks readily comes to mind. She was the brave, black woman who, on December 1, 1955, refused to give up her seat on a bus in the Southern United States so that a white person could sit. Her name now ricochets throughout history as a woman of influence; a woman of substance. She rightly deserved the title of “the mother of the civil rights movement”. However, prior to this event, she was just another simple, ordinary, “invisible woman”; going about her daily chores unnoticed and considered insignificant. But there were many other invisible women whose call for justice and equality aided the process. Many women who influenced change in the society and channelled its evolution to our civilization being where it is today. Many women who nurtured, cared for, educated, and influenced many of the men who were their husbands, brothers, sons, nephews, students, friends and neighbours. They built (and are still building) many strong men in every profession; invisible women who created visibility for many men; invisible women who, in many cases, crafted the moral fabric of society. We pause to salute them! It is unfortunate that many societies still refuse to allow women to

play their rightful roles. Many women (especially in the Middle and Far East) are not allowed to be present when men are conversing. They can never participate in public debate. There are parts of the world where females are denied the education available to their male counterparts. Yes, and there are still many societies where the female is only acknowledged for her childbaring and child-rearing skills. How sad! How unfortunate! What a waste of talent and ability! What a way to retard a society! This is nothing new though. Aeschylus, the Athenian tragic poetic dramatist and soldier who lived during the period 525-456 BC, is known to have said, “… it is yours (women’s) to be silent and stay within doors”. We can also highlight other cultures where similar discriminatory attitudes prevailed long before Aeschylus. Sociologists credit the Second World War for allowing the women to exhibit their talents outside the home. With the men off fighting various battles, it was the women who “manned” and managed many of the factories dedicated to producing uniforms, weapons, canned food and so on. Many women retained their positions in the industries following the war. In a sense, the war had created opportunities for women to demonstrate their non-domestic abilities. They have not looked back. Here in St. Vincent and the Grenadine we are fortunate that many of our ladies have emerged to take their rightful, prominent positions in business, government, religious bodies and non-government organisations. They have excelled in every profession. We tip our hats to them; especially those who simultaneously play responsible roles of wives, mothers, and home-makers. Unfortunately, many women still remain invisible and, in some cases, bear the brunt of prejudices that see them as appendices to the men in their lives (no insult intended). It is therefore understandable that some appear to be super sensitive when introduced as “So-and-so’s wife” or “So-and-so’s mother”. After all, even in cases where they may be working at home, they are not merely extensions of the men in their life. Susan Brownell Anthony (1820—1906), the American woman suffragette, describes such prejudices so vividly when she said, “Of all the old prejudices that cling to the hem of the woman’s garments and persistently impede her progress, none holds faster than this. The idea that she owes service to a man instead of to herself, and that it is her highest duty to aid his development rather than her own, will be the last to die.” Yes, our society has come a long way in recognizing and commending our outstanding women; but the journey is not ended. With all the good that they continue to do and with their many outstanding performances in and outside the home, there are still too many invisible women. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

'The Democratic establishment won’t care. They don’t care. The Dem establishment will gladly enable a second Trump term before it will get behind a progressive nomination. They would rather lose to the right most party, even an ever-more fascistic and apocalyptic GOP, than to the moderately social-democratic left wing of their own party.' Paul Street

the party in disgust. Sanders’ democratic socialism is essentially that of a New Deal Democrat. His political views would be part of the mainstream in Europe where democratic socialism is an accepted part of the political landscape. It is routinely challenged as too accommodationist by communists and radical socialists. Sanders calls for an end to our foreign wars, a reduction of the military budget, Medicare for All, abolishing the death penalty, eliminating mandatory minimum sentences and private prisons, raising taxes on the wealthy, increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour, canceling student debt, eliminating the Electoral College and breaking up agribusinesses. This does not qualify as a revolutionary agenda. Sanders does not propose nationalizing the banks, the fossil fuel and arms industries or the criminal prosecution of the financial elites who trashed the global economy or the politicians and generals who lied to launch pre-emptive wars, defined under international law as criminal wars of aggression, which have devastated much of the Middle East, resulted in hundreds of thousands of dead and millions of refugees and displaced people, and cost the nation between $5 trillion and $7 trillion. He does not call for worker ownership of factories and businesses. He does not promise to halt the government’s wholesale surveillance of the public. Most importantly, he believes that the political system, including the Democratic Party, can be reformed from within. On the political spectrum, he is, at best, an enlightened moderate. The Democrats, like the Republicans, serve the interests of the pharmaceutical and insurance industries, defense contractors and the fossil fuel industry. The Democrats, along with the Republicans, authorized $738 billion military and do not oppose the endless wars in the Middle East, took from us our civil liberties, including the right to privacy, freedom from wholesale government surveillance, and due process. The Democrats, like the Republicans, legalized unlimited funding from the rich and corporations to transform our electoral process into a system of legalized bribery. The Democrats, like the Republicans built a system of mass incarceration that has 25% of the world’s prisoners, although the United States has only 5% of the world’s population. The Democrats, like the Republicans, are the political face of the oligarchy. The leaders of the Democratic Party–the Clintons, Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Tom Perez would rather implode the party and the democratic state than surrender their positions of privilege. The Democratic Party is not a bulwark against despotism. It is the guarantor of despotism. It is a full partner in the class project. Its lies, deceit, betrayal of working men and women and empowering of corporate pillage made a demagogue like Trump possible. Any threat to the class project, even the tepid one that would be offered by Sanders as the party’s nominee, will see the Democratic elites unite with the Republicans to keep Trump in power. Until the poor and working people understand this fact, they will play along and make choices that will be to their detriment. Our responsibility is to tell no lies and claim no easy victories. Most of this column came from a longer piece by Chris Hedges entitled Class, the little word the elite hates.

THERE IS A NATURAL ANTAGONISM between the rich and the rest of us. The interests of the rich are not our interests. The truths of the rich are not our truths. The lives of the rich are not our lives. Great wealth not only breeds contempt for those who do not have it, but it empowers oligarchs to pay armies of lawyers, publicists, politicians, judges, academics and journalists to censure and control public debate and stifle dissent. The oligarchs are happy to talk about race, sexual identity, patriotism, religion, immigration, abortion and gun control. However, they are not happy to talk about class. These issues used to divide the public, to fuel virulent hatreds and antagonisms. The culture wars give the oligarchs, both Democrats and Republicans, the cover to continue the pillage. There are few substantial differences between the two ruling political parties in the United States. This is why oligarchs like Donald Trump and Michael Bloomberg can switch effortlessly from one party to the other. Once oligarchs seize power, Aristotle wrote, a society must either accept tyranny or choose revolution. During the 1930s, the United States stood on the cusp of revolution–a fact President Franklin Roosevelt acknowledged in his private correspondence – amid the breakdown of capitalism. Roosevelt responded by aggressively curbing the power of the oligarchs. The federal government dealt with massive unemployment by creating 12 million jobs, making the government the largest employer in the country. It legalized unions and empowered organizing. President Roosevelt heavily taxed the rich and corporations up to 91 percent of earned income. His administration instituted programs such as Social Security and a public pension program. It provided financial assistance to farmers and migrant workers. It funded arts and culture. It created the United States Housing Authority, established the minimum wage and set a limit on mandatory work hours. This heavy government intervention lifted the country out of the Great Depression. It also made Roosevelt, who was elected to an unprecedented fourth term, and the Democratic Party wildly popular among working and middleclass families. The Democratic Party, should it resurrect such policies, would win every election in a landslide. But the New Deal was hated by the oligarchs. They gradually dismantled the regulations and programs that had not only saved capitalism but arguably democracy itself. Americans live in an oligarchic state. The oligarchs control politics, the economy, culture, education and the press. Donald Trump occasionally hits out against the rich who ship jobs abroad. He, like Bernie Sanders, speaks about the forbidden topic – class. But Trump, though an embarrassment to the oligarchs, does not, like Sanders, pose a genuine threat to them. Trump incites violence against the vulnerable, widens the cultural and social divides and consolidates tyranny, but he will leave the rich alone. It is Sanders whom the oligarchs fear and hate. The Democratic Party elites used every and any mechanism, no matter how undemocratic, to prevent Sanders Send comments, criticisms & from obtaining the nomination even if it suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com leads to Sanders’ supporters abandoning

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 13.

Views

ULP 2020 Budget in danger of collapsing THE ULP 2020 BUDGET is fragile and in danger of a sudden collapse. According to Oxford Brookes University Graduate Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, the ULP 2020 Budget has a massive fiscal deficit of almost 200 million dollars, and is held together by a ‘sticking plaster’ of a supposed $46.9 million Budget Support Loan. The fragility of the budget is an embarrassment to the ULP Regime, and if it collapses, it could lead to a state of emergency in SVG. It is very unusual to have a Budget Support Loan in a budget. The ULP 2020 Budget has Current Revenue of $680.0 million; Current Expenditure of $875.5 million; and a massive Fiscal Deficit of $195.5 million. This deficit is too large to sustain an economy that is import driven. A cash cow is a business, product line, or investment that has a return on assets greater than the market growth rate. The idiom refers to the idea that it produces profit long after the cost of the investment has been recouped. There are no cash cows in the ULP 2020 Budget or the SVG economy as a whole. This is making our country weaker day by day, as there is very little sustainable revenue creation by the incompetent ULP regime. Unemployment, poverty and crime are very high in SVG. In the event of a sudden collapse of the SVG budget

overnight, there will be chaos and panic. Budget Support Loan is a misleading phrase in the ULP regime budget. The normal strategy - and usual wording - for countries such as Haiti and SVG that are virtually broke and in a financial ‘straight jacket’, is to apply for Emergency Funds from the International Monetary Fund. The major problem with the ULP Regime’s 19 years in power, is that it has not had one member of Parliament who is a graduate in Finance or Public Accounts. The ULP regime is financially incompetent. We urgently need to do like Norway, Singapore and the UK, and very urgently move out of our respective federation, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). SVG urgently needs its own central bank and own currency to stimulate economic growth. A central bank could undertake the responsibility of economic growth and stabilise the SVG economy. Without economic growth, we are simply burying our head in the sand, relying on the ULP regime’s misguided obsession with tourism being the engine of the SVG economy. We have over 10,000 square miles of sea space, plus the right to fish for tuna in the Atlantic Ocean. A tuna fishing and canning industry could bring in a $1000 dollars for every one dollar earned from tourism. Also, with our economy based on science, technology and education, we could boost economic growth by exporting

our innovation. It is a danger that the Budget 2020 has a Budget Support Loan. It shows that the grossly incompetent and

useless ULP Regime is digging a hole to fill a hole - borrowing money to pay debt. We very strongly contend that only a Green Government can bring prosperity and a peaceful living environment to all in SVG.

The incident between Iran and America – What is the truth? by R. THEODORE L. V. BROWNE MALCOLM GLADWELL (author) opened my eyes to a possibility connected to recent events involving the United States of America (USA) and the Islamic Republic of Iran. You may recall that about 2 months ago, the USA assassinated one of Iran’s top generals in a shocking extrajudicial killing. This event sparked international outrage and unified Iranians against America as demonstrated in their Parliament with chants of “Death to America,” and in many other parts of the country. It seemed as if the whole of Iran turned out to the general’s funeral. Subsequently, an Iranian civilian plane with mostly Iranians onboard was shot down. There were no Americans onboard. The incident was attributed to a mistake by Iran’s Army. This was absolutely the

worst thing that could have happened in the circumstances — it broke up the national unity, and the world was no longer talking about what America did to Iran, but rather what Iran did to itself (a selfinflicted wound). The people of Iran were now carrying out mass protests against their government for “accidentally” killing its own citizens. The tables had obviously turned with a furious vengeance. In his book Talking to Strangers, Malcolm Gladwell wrote about an incident which took place in 1996. It also involved the USA. Mr. Gladwell narrated that Cuba had become fed up with a Miami-based group called Brothers-to-theRescue which insisted, over an extended period of time, on flying missions into Cuban airspace and dropping pamphlets inciting uprising against the government. Cuba planned to do something

about it. However, they wanted to minimise public relations fall-out both inside and outside Cuba. What happened next is quite interesting. It turns out that Cuba had spies in America’s Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). These spies apparently organised for a retired US rear admiral to meet with top ranking members of the Cuban government. In the course of the meeting, the Cubans presented the option of shooting down the planes. The retired admiral took this information back to the State Department, but nothing was done about it. Brothers-to-theRescue was not informed about Cuba’s position on their flights, and was therefore left in harm’s way. Inevitably, the Cubans did shoot down the trespassing planes. When that happened, the retired US admiral made an appearance on CNN and told the American public about his meeting with Cuban officials, the message he conveyed to the American government and the fact that nothing was done to inform or protect the flight operators. He further stated that the Cubans had acted just like Americans would act if a foreign country violated its airspace. The public was not so much angry with Cuba — it was angry with the American government for sitting on the information and doing nothing to prevent the incident. A question arises — Did the United States of America infiltrate the ranks of the Iranian Army which “mistakenly” shot down the civilian plane?

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14. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Education

SVGCC cops regional debate title

(Standing L-R): Zachary Richards (debater), Juno Laborde (Assistant coach & Assistant Registrar), Haronese Collins THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Adams also took the (debater), Casey Defreitas Community College (SVGCC) emerged as opportunity to remind (debater), B. Tedra Kirby (Coach champions of the 2020 Windward students that nothing & Lecturer), and Deaney Islands Debating Competition (WIDC) limits excellence, after Gellizeau (debater); (Seated) Eula held this past weekend in Roseau, which she commended Adams - SVGCC Deputy Director and local WIDC Chair. (Photo Dominica. the efforts of coaches Source: SVGCC) The SVGCC, which advanced to the B. Tedra Kirby and finals after defeating Dominica State Juno LabordeCollins were also College, dethroned defending Maloney. She expressed that she is part of the champions T.A Marryshow confident that with them at the helm delegation. Community College of Grenada. of the SVGCC’s Debating Society, it (Source: SVGCC) Debaters Deaney Gellizeau and will experience even more success. Zachary Richards opposed that topic Team SVGCC was also awarded the “The lack of youth involvement in local Caribbean Centre for Development politics is a direct result of the political Administration (CARICAD) “Team culture of the region”, and walked Excellence” trophy, which was THE ST. VINCENT & away with a 399.5 - 381.5 victory over awarded to the team that best THE GRENADINES their rivals. exemplified the values of the COMMUNITY Director of the SVGCC, Nigel Scott, competition. This is the first time COLLEGE (SVGCC) commented on the school’s victory by such an award has been given. Each has welcomed stating, “I am really very pleased with debater will also receive a smart watch renowned the efforts of the team in this year’s as part of their winnings. Mathematics-teaching debate. Their preparation was The College takes this opportunity educator Professor excellent as evidenced by their to acknowledge the support of the Robert “Bob” performance, and they executed well. Ancient Order of Foresters Court, the Cunningham to its They have truly done us proud.” National Lotteries Authority and Mr faculty, as the College His sentiments were echoed by Dennis Gaymes, as well as the support looks to improve the SVGCC Deputy Director and local of staff, students and friends of the quality of Math WIDC Chairperson, Eula Adams, who SVGCC. specialisation stated that she was extremely proud of The team is expected to return graduates from its Division of Teacher the team’s effort and was happy to home on Sunday, March 8th, 2020 at Education. witness it live in person. 1pm. Casey DeFreitas and Haronese Director of the SVGCC, Nigel Scott, welcomed Cunningham to the institution stating, “Prof. Cunningham’s stint at the SVGCC will be of great significance to the Mathematics teaching landscape, not just here at the College but also at a national level, as our graduates from the Division of Teacher Education move on to classrooms all across St. Vincent and the Grenadines where they impact the lives of Vincentian students.” Scott recognized that “Mathematics has long posed a challenge to our youth across the Caribbean,” but he expressed the hope that “Prof. Cunningham’s innovative teaching approach towards the subject would bring a much needed boost to our students.” Professor Cunningham’s time at the institution is made possible through the Fulbright Fellowship Programme. He intends to integrate research-

SVGCC welcomes Math Help

Professor Robert “Bob” Cunningham (Second row standing 4th from right) will work with students of the Teacher Education (pictured) to equip them to impact positively at the classroom level. (Photo Credit: SVGCC) based strategies utilised at his home institution (The College of New Jersey) into the curriculum at the SVGCC, in hopes of promoting global excellence in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Through funds provided by his Fellowship, Prof. Cunningham has already purchased “manipulatives” physical objects used as teaching tools to engage students in the hands-on learning of mathematics - which he intends to leave in the possession of the institution. The Professor, whose assignment at the College lasts until the end of April, said he has enjoyed working with the student teachers at SVGCC and those placed in local schools. (Source: SVGCC)

V Laughs ‘til dey belly buss’ Diaspora

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

Maurice Horne TWO TOP Vincentian comedians held an audience in stitches two Friday evenings ago, as the Brooklyn, New Yorkbased Marriaqua Secondary School/St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua (MSS/SJCM) Alumni Association of North America held the first ever Vincentianproduced comedy show in New York. Featured acts Montreal-based Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel and Kingstown-based Maurice Horne exceeded high expectations with their historic performances at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center, a popular venue for most Vincentian social activities in Brooklyn. It was the first time that either comedian was performing before a Vincentian audience in the Big Apple. Patrons laughed “til dey belly buss”, as Daniel and Horne, unloaded selections from their wide repertoire in the group’s maiden ‘Night of Comedy and Laughter’. “The two main featured comedians did not disappoint the crowd with their high standard of comedy that had the crowd rolling with laughter,” Kenroy ‘Kenny’ Browne, president of MSS/SJCM Alumni Association of North America, told THE

VINCENTIAN afterwards. “The feedback of the show has been positive, with a few rooms for improvements here and there,” he added. “What I liked also about the show, is that it was family-friendly. We had a good mixture of the young and older folks in attendance. “The show has such positive response that folks are asking if we are going to have another comedy show in the summer,” continued Browne, who also tried some comedic acts. “However, we are hoping to make this comedy show an annual event, once we have a good slate of comedians lined up that carry the show.”

Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel was my close friend,” in reference to Gailene Windsor, a St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sports Ambassador and community activist, who passed away two Thursdays ago at her Brooklyn residence.

Main acts impressed

Horne and Daniel said they were very happy with their debut Other segments performances in New York. The show also “The show was very featured two other well received. … Comedy segments: ‘Battle of the of this kind is new to Sexes’ and ‘If you Think this venue, and I want to You Funny - Apollo thank the guys Style’. (organizers) for putting In ‘Battle of the this together,” Horne Sexes’, patrons gave told THE VINCENTIAN. answers to questions “The show really went posed by Master of down well. I love the Ceremonies Allan ‘Tom’ response from the Doyle, owner of Sans audience.” Souci Studio in Brooklyn, Daniel, who resides in and Victoria WyllieCity of Lachime in Rabel, the group’s Montreal, lauded treasurer. The answers MSS/SJCM Alumni did not have to make Association of North sense but were expected America for its to be funny. “excellent” In the other segment, organizational skills. members of the audience “Those guys did a were invited on stage to great job in organizing… give a joke and, if he or I love the way they put she was not funny, he or things together. For an she was pulled off the organization, just two stage. years old, they produced “The audience a quality show. They set participation piece was a standard for other well received and organizations to follow,” enjoyed by most, George said. especially Ms. Joanne Proceeds from the Legair (a Vincentian event and two other community worker), who forthcoming ones — a had them laughing their BBQ and Annual Dance belly’s full,” Janet Wyllie — will go towards helping said. the group’s alma mater Before performing, in upgrading its library, Legair told the crowd: “I laboratory and Home came here, so I can feel Economics Center. better, because Gailene

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16. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Garifuna Feature

Another Garifuna Folk Festival staged by GLORIAH… THE 6TH EDITION of the National Garifuna Folk Festival kicked off at the Victoria Park on Friday 6th March. The Festival promised

The Belmont Government School doing a dance to a Punta Rock number. They were adjudged to have had the Most Organized Performance.

over eighteen schools doing cultural performances, and some five schools entering for the National Garifuna Fashion Showcase. It delivered. In brief opening remarks, President of the Garifuna Heritage Foundation (GHF), David ‘Darkie’ Williams, stressed the importance of engaging students in cultural activities centred around the Garifuna culture. He posited, “The knowledge of history is very important for a nation’s self-worth and its sense of belonging, and so each of us must of necessity, be able to not just know our history but to use it to guide us forward.” Ms. Maxine Brown from the Ministry of Tourism, Sport and Culture, who coordinated the Festival, said, “I want to continue to encourage the schools to invest in our youth — an investment in the arts is an investment in our youth. …. one day when we are no longer in this existence, they would know what to do.” Representative from the Ministry of Education, Mrs. Aldia Dyer underlined the Ministry’s satisfaction with the partnership with The Garifuna Heritage Foundation. “It is highly valued for the fact that our students are actively engaged in learning our local history in a very enjoyable and fulfilling way,” she said.

others sang and/or chanted while moving to intricately choreographed sequences. The Sugar Mill Academy went the extra mile by delivering a choral speech entitled, ‘We Ah Garifuna’, in Garifuna (language). Added to this, were the booth covering educational issues, put on by secondary schools. The Fashion Showcase This year, the challenge was to create Garifuna fashion using its colours yellow, white and black. At the end of the display, the judges awarded the Best Garifuna Fashion, Teacher and Student categories to Belair Government School. Kingstown Preparatory School placed 2nd, and Barrouallie Anglican School 3rd in the Student category. Other Results

Other awards were as follows: Most Outstanding Garifuna Song — Evesham Methodist; Most Outstanding Garifuna Dance — St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown; Most Outstanding Garifuna Choral Speech — Calder Government; Most Organized Performance — Belmont Government; Most Creative Use of Garifuna Colors — Brighton Methodist; Best Overall Garifuna-Themed Presentation — Barrouallie Anglican; Best Drumology — Calliaqua Anglican; and The performances Most Outstanding Oral Presentation — George The festival has evolved Stephens Secondary. from a lack of Garifuna In the educational cultural items compressed displays, awards were in folksongs, calypsos, given for: Most short skits, monologues Outstanding Traditional and so on, with modernBooth — Georgetown day Vincentian content. Secondary; Most This year, the Outstanding Research Barrouallie Anglican Paper — Adelphi started out with a choral Secondary; and Most speech ‘We Remember Creative Food Garifuna’. The Festival Presentation — Central then took off with over Leeward Secondary. twenty schools making Next year’s festival has presentations that a great springboard from inculcated the Garifuna which to take off. culture. Groups danced,

Students of the Sugar Mill Academy delivered their Choral Speech in Garifuna.

V Revive the Garifuna story Garifuna Feature

Right: The Lauders Primary School gave a Garifuna-inspired presentation as part of the opening of the Conference.

Dr. Cleve Scott was adamant that it was time the Garifuna Story became an integral part of the school curriculum. IF DR CLEVE SCOTT gets his way, there may be a category Garifuna in the 2020 Census Questionnaire. Vincentian born Scott gave the keynote address on the topic, ‘‘Yuremei and the Garifuna: The problem of syncretisation, identity crisis and ethnicity’, at the opening of the Seventh International Garifuna Conference, held at the National Insurance Services Conference Room last Wednesday. The lecturer, in an address that was delivered with sheer rawness embellished by the use of video clippings, pleaded for the revival of the Garifuna story, and that it ought to be included on the school’s curriculum. Dr. Scott pointed to the issue of the Windrush generation, which faced deportation from England after having contributed to the reconstruction of that nation following the Second World War. He also alluded to the policy of deportation which persons of Caribbean parentage face in the United States of America. With respect to the use of the word ‘exile’, Scott has a different perspective as it pertains to the Garifuna people who were removed from

their homeland in St. The Conference is Vincent and the slated to round off today Grenadiers and sent to Friday March 13 at the Roatan Island first. As Peace Memorial Hall. far as Dr. Scott is concerned, these citizens were “banished.” He cites it as a “travesty of justice,” and is convinced that this is a historical wrong that must be corrected. Room was also found for highlights of the population sector of persons of East Indian and Portuguese descent, as contributing to the making of the Vincentian story. And as though inviting controversy, Scott encouraged cognizance of the instances whereby one may be considered to be genetically white, but culturally black. Columbus’ arrival to the area also formed part of Dr. Scott’s presentation and he noted Britain’s war with the local population was intended to deprive the indigenous people of their land. He surmised that the subsequent condensation of the Vincentian nationhood is a conglomeration that also includes European, African, Native American and Amerindian. “All is not lost,” said Dr. Scott. “We can use history to construct the future. … We have to find ways of continuing this fight,” he outlined, and described the fight as an inward look. “We have a great future, once we know how to harness it,” Dr. Scott insisted. Dr. Scott’s feature presentation was preceded by addresses from: David ‘Darkie’ Williams - President of The Garifuna Heritage Foundation; Professor Velma Newton - Project Director, Improved Access to Justice; Deborah Dalrymple, Head of Site, the University of the West Indies Open Campus; St. Clair Jimmy Prince — Minister of Education; and Cecil Mc Kie — Minister of Culture.

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18. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Rapid Relief Team reaching out Right: Volunteers serving in the female section of the Home.

The food preparation and packaging assembly line on site at the Lewis Punnett Home.

ON SATURDAY, 29th of February, the Rapid Relief

Christmas Floods in 2013, providing catering and logistics support to emergency crews during natural disasters and major accidents. We also support a range of charities that help the homeless and other disadvantaged persons in the community. The RRT volunteers say that they are overwhelmed by the ease with which the whole About the RRT community comes together in times of need, The Rapid Relief Team by the fantastic work the (RRT) is a not-for-profit emergency services and organization, established other charities do, and by the Plymouth are glad to be able to Brethren Christian support them in some Church (PBCC). It is set way. up and run by a team of RRT volunteers primarily volunteers/members, from the Church, who representing a range of donate their time to skills/expertise, are support community drawn from persons services, and other living and working in charitable activities for various communities. the benefit of local Any donations to communities. It is an assist with the work of opportunity for the the RRT can be made PBCC to display through RRT’s website Christian principles of www.rapidreliefteam.org. care and compassion All donations are used through benevolent relief 100% for charity relief as to persons in need. all labour is donated by RRT has been active volunteers. (Source: in St. Vincent since the RRT) Team (RRT) St. Vincent showed their support to those who abode at Lewis Punnett Care Home, by welcoming them to their new location with a meal, which was prepared on site. An impromptu praise session by a local church choir followed the meal, and this made the evening one to remember for both residents and staff of the Home.

Staff of the Lewis Punnett Home welcomed the RRT volunteers.

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20. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Regional

Wickham’s life threatened

POLICE in Barbados are Peter Wickham, investigating a threat on the life of renowned pollster and pollster and talk show host Peter political commentator, Wickham. said he will not allow a The threat, according to threat to prevent him Barbados Today, was made on from doing his work. Tuesday on live national radio, (Photo Credit: Starcom on Voice of Barbados’ call-in Network) because the programme ‘Down to Brass Opposition People’s Tacks’, hosted by Wickham. Progressive Party/Civic filed an A caller, apparently irate because of injunction asking the court to bar the comments made by Wickham on the declaration of a winner while the court post-election fallout in Guyana, is reviews the case with respect to reported to have said, “I warned you counting of votes in one Region. before sir to stay out of the affairs of Wickham suggested that the data my country and you still meddle into published so far favours the it.” Opposition PPP/Civic, and the party Wickham asked: “You are was likely to be declared the winner. Guyanese?” He described the call as a threat The caller did not reply but said: and confirmed to Barbados Today that “Now I know that you are travelling he had lodged a report with the police soon from now, make your peace with who, he said, have begun an the Lord before you leave.” The call investigation into the matter. ended. A defiant Wickham said: “I should Wickham, the well-known Director also add that I remain committed to of the Caribbean Development my work in the region and promise to Research Services, which conducts continue offering professional opinions public opinion polling across the whenever the opportunity arises (as Caribbean, had expressed concern long as I am in this business). about the election process in Guyana. “I do appreciate that my comments As it stands, after more than a will often delight and sometimes week since the March 2 election, a offend, but such is life!” (Source: winner is yet to be declared, not least Barbados Today)

U.S Govt. advises against cruise vacations THE UNITED STATES Government has advised its citizens to avoid cruises as the novel coronavirus continues to spread. The State Department advised travellers with underlying health conditions in particular, not to travel by by cruise ship. This follows a Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notation that there is increased risk of infection of COVID-19 in a cruise ship environment. Jamaica was quickest to respond to the US Advisory. It is among the countries which have imposed strict guidelines for cruise passengers in light of the deadly coronavirus. Its Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett acknowledged the US advisory, in the face of the global fears and uncertainty, will have a potentially devastating effect on economies, primarily those that are hugely dependent on tourism and travel. The Caribbean, which has more than 40 per cent of its GDP dependent on tourism, will be especially impacted, Bartlett said. “Our reality is that cruise tourism in the Caribbean represents over 80 per cent of global cruisers; indeed, we are the largest and most profitable warm weather destination on earth, … consequently we are likely to see a big dip in the arrivals and earnings,” the Jamaican minister said.

Tourism accounts for more than 40% of the GDP in the Caribbean. (Photo captures Heritage Quay, St. John’s, Antigua – Source: Express UK) He said cruise lines and airlines will have to make important decisions as to how to operate in this context, and may make severe adjustments to their itineraries. “The result could be thousands of Caribbean and Jamaican workers unemployed, and huge haemorrhage to the economy. These prospects are worse than any other disruptions the world has seen in the past 50 years,” Bartlett proffered. The Minister was expected to meet with the leadership of the Jamaican tourism sector to review what by then will be a clearer picture of the responses of the air and cruise lines and to begin planning a tourism response strategy. (Source: SKN Observer)

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22. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The halo around our national hero

Bank accounts for ganja cultivators CANNABIS CULTIVATORS here have had two pieces of good news in recent time. First was the eagerly anticipated implementation of the Amnesty for traditional cultivators that came into effect on March 3. This allows individuals, who would otherwise face convictions for the illegal cultivation of cannabis under current law, to “surrender their crop or harvest upon the issuance of a traditional cultivation license.” The second bit of good news came when government announced that it would grant permission for licensed cannabis cultivators to open bank accounts. As it stands, the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will absorb the risks in this regard, and its decision to do so is heralded as a significant step for the

local as well as the regional cannabis (medical) industry. The risks relate to the United States banking regulations. Because cannabis is federally illegal in the US, it is risky for financial institutions in other countries to work with cannabis companies, for fear of jeopardizing banking relationships in the United States. The bank accounts will allow holders to directly accept investments from, and complete financial transactions with, legal entities from countries with established cannabis industries, Jerrol Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of the country’s Medicinal Cannabis Authority, told licensees in February. SVG is the only

Caribbean island that has been able to establish a firm basis in terms of banking, according to Dr. Thompson. The facility — bank accounts — will facilitate the legitimate movement of money between Canada and Europe and SVG.

Adrian Fraser and Dr. Vivian Child on an “Inside-Out” television To top it all, Adrian has just programme dealing with the issues, published a well researched as well as again with Dr. Fraser monograph on the Caribs, featuring participated in Jerry George’s call-in their Paramount Chief Joseph programme The World in Focus. Chatoyer. For its part, the Ministry of John Horne as Minister of Culture chipped in with four Culture in successive NDP publications which it refused to Governments, had created a climate disclose were warmed over version of for the honouring of Joseph Chatoyer selections from “Our Heritage” as our First National Hero but, for programme put out by the whatever reason, did not gain the department under Minister John satisfaction of dotting the “I’s” and Horne 1985 to 1988. crossing the “T’s” of enabling Naturally, there were a few legislation. The deed was left to Rene bugs. Firstly, the “Rose Crew” a and Ralph who made a sumptuous musical team from North Leeward in feast of a meal largely prepared by their ignorance, set the National others. Anthem to a modern beat to which As early as 1985, John had they danced! presided over the unveiling of the Secondly, there was a political obelisk at Dorsetshire Hill provided split in the very heart of Carib by the Venezuelans who had country when “The People” staged promised to come up with follow-up their customary celebration in Sandy statue of Chatoyer that Arthur Bay and the ULP Government put Connell, president of the National on a rival show nearby. Trust, hoped to see installed in At the end of the day, no one Kingstown. needs to be reminded that a National For over a month now, I have Hero is not the property of any dedicated this column to the political party, to be seen as a prize publication of articles relevant to the accomplishment fit for adorning an installation of our ‘First National election manifesto. Hero: Needed Urgently our own On the contrary, a National Hero History”, followed by contributions is the personification of the collective on legitimate claimants to this high soul of the nation that inspires and honour, Hugh Mulzac, George Mc animates a people to perform great Intosh, Ebenezer Joshua and, finally feats and noble deeds. That is why in Carib Chief Joseph Chatoyer timed the final analysis, I am inclined to for the last publication date before support Ken Boyea’s idea of settling 14th March. on a single Hero for the foreseeable Additionally, I appeared with future. Continued from Page 8.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 23.

SVG PORT AUTHORITY

Ms. Necois Bramble receiving award from Council Member, Mr. Vernon McDowall.

Mr. Andrew Frank receiving award from Council Member, Mr. Winston Davis.

Mr. Dwayne Abbott receiving award from Harbour Master, Mr. Ronald Joseph.

Ms. Semonia DaSouza receiving award from COO, Mr. Carl James.

Mr. Ollivet Peters receiving award from COO, Mr. Carl James.

Mr. Keville Solomon receiving award from SVGPA Chairman, Mr. Clayton Burgin.

On Saturday, February 1, 2020, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority held its Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Cruise Ship Terminal and Ferry Berth at 7:00 p.m. The annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony serves to recognize the contribution made by members of staff for their dedication, hard work and long term service to the organization. The welcome remarks were done by Mr. Bishen John, Chief Executive Officer of the SVG Port Authority. Remarks were also made by the Chairman of the SVG Port Authority, Mr. Clayton Burgin. He implored the staff to continue to work hard to further develop the Port in anticipation of the soon to be constructed facility at Rose Place. The evening was one of cheer and excitement as the Port Authority awarded thirteen (13) employees for their outstanding performance in 2019, and twenty-one (21) employees for their years of service to the organization. Mr. Bishen John, CEO of the SVG Port Authority making remarks at the dinner.

A W A R D E E S

Employees who retired in 2019 were also appreciated for their years of hard work and service to the SVG Port Authority.

AWARDS LONG ONG SERVICE A WA ARDS 2019 (20 Years) Mr. Antrobus Mrr. Nigel Antr obus Mr. Mrr. Rodger Baker Mr. Mrr. Dean Branch Mr. Mr r. Harvey Caine Ms. Rhondeen George Mr. Mr r. Neil John Mr. Mrr. Paul Pope Mr. Solomon Mr r. Keville K (15 Years) Mr. Mr r. Andrew Andrew Frank Mr. Mr r. David Kelly Mr. Mr r. Raniel Richards

(15 Years cont’d) Williams Ms. Denise Williams (10 Years) Mr. r. Dwayne Abbott Mr Ms. Necois Bramble Ms. Ketesha Duncan Mrr. Kyle Johnny Mr. Mrs. Martina Matthias Mr. Mr r. Brandt Nichols Mr. Mrr. Ollivet Peters Mr. Mrr. Colin Phillips Mr. Mrr. Joren Joren Sam

MOST OUTST OUTSTANDING TA AND DING EMPLOYEES EMPLO OY YEES BY BY DEPARTMENT DEP PA ARTMENT Cruise Ship Terminal & Ferry Berth Mrs. Martina Matthias

Security Security Department Ms. Jasmin Morgan

Maintenance Mrr. Ollivet Peters Mr.

Operations - Kingstown Ms. Semonia DaSouza Mr. Mrr. Leopold Dopwell Mr r. Ludwig Lud Mr. Fergus Latchman

Operations - Campden Park Ms. Cuwanda Toby Tob o oby Mr. Mrr. Nigel Antrobus Antrobus Mr. Mrr. Kendall Scott

HR/Admin Mrs. Camille Shallow Duncan

Finance / Accounts Mrs. Hafiza Toney-DaSilva Toney-DaSilva

Marine Mr. Mrr. Dwayne Abbott Information Information Technology Technology Mr. Mrr. S. Ekron Ekron Byron Byron

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24. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Something bad could happen Dear George, I HAVE never thought about going to jail, but from what I have been told and the game my wife is playing, going to jail doesn’t sound so bad after all. This businessman has been sleeping with my wife right under my nose. I noticed she expressed little or no interest in having sex with me and would not explain why. But I saw a text she sent to one of her girlfriends saying that I couldn’t compare to her new lover. George, I love my wife, but I will not stand idly by and watch another man ‘pamperset’ on my property. Believe me when I tell you I am thinking of what to do this man every second of every day. I need your advice and fast.

Armed and dangerous Dear Armed & dangerous, At this stage, you need help in getting you to manage your anger. You seem to be at the point where if you do not get the right help, you can

end up doing something regrettable. Giving up your freedom for something that can be handled otherwise is not such a good idea. You need to find someone you can talk to about this situation, and the sooner the better. I will strongly advise you to find a professional counsellor who would be able to help you take a step back, do a proper assessment of the situation and find ways of arriving at a solution that will benefit you in the long run. The anger you feel now will prevent you from acting reasonably, which is why you need to talk to someone as suggested. Feel free to contact me further should the need arise. I wish you the best going forward.

George

Not deserving of you knowing your sexual history, is not deserving My baby’s father has told of your hand in marriage. You do not me he will not be supporting my new born need to wait around for baby. He says the child him to come around to accepting responsibility does not look like him. for your child. He always In the meantime, you doubted that the child was his when I first told should do a paternity test to make that official him I was pregnant determination, and let although I never went the legal system take its with any other man. I course in getting him to was a virgin when he financially contribute to met me and he knew it. He is saying I could have the well-being of the gone with another man the same day he took my virginity, which is total nonsense. We were planning on getting married, but he is saying that will only happen if I admit to having an affair which resulted in the baby I now have. How can I admit to something I never did? I just want him to accept this baby so we can go ahead and get married. I deeply love this guy, but now I am stuck - he is preventing me from moving forward. I need your advice.

Dear George,

Worried Dear Worried, A man who disowns his child even after

child. The good news is, there are other men out there who would be elated to be with someone of quality and class, and this should be enough to keep you hoping. The better news is you have a son to care for and to live for, and this in itself will bring you immeasurable satisfaction.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You may experience setbacks due to additional responsibilities with loved ones. Find ways to make extra cash. Start making things or reusing rather than buying ready- made. Brunch, a long walk, or a quiet dinner will secure your position in the relationship.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Get the whole family involved in a worthwhile cause or cultural event. Someone you work with could have a personal interest in you. Those close to your heart may be difficult to reason with.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) Don't jump too quickly if someone tries to make you join in on their crusade. You must consider yourself for a change. Secret affairs can only lead to devastating circumstances. You can pick up some overtime this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Changes in your domestic situation will prove to be favorable in the long run. this week is not the day to try to comer people by giving them ultimatums. Do not invest in ventures that only appear to be lucrative. Problems with peers is apparent.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You need a change and you need to earn more cash. Read some books on self awareness. One of your female friends may try to disrupt your day. Stand up for your rights. You may have the energy to clear up that mound of paperwork facing you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Socially, you need a fast paced form of entertainment. Uncertain get rich quick schemes will not be as lucrative as you anticipate. You will learn a great deal about yourself if you go somewhere secluded.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Put something away in case of an emergency. Be creative in your pursuits. Problems with ear, nose, or the throat are likely. Your pursuits may end up being fruit less.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your need to use emotional blackmail will only cause more conflict. You need to get down to basics with regard to yourself. Family members may feel anxious if you make promises you don't deliver.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You should feel a little more stable about your position; however, don't be surprised if a job offer comes your way. You may need help with your financial situation. You will be ready to jump on anyone who gets in the way of your progress this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction. Your personal life is going through a state of confusion. Do not get involved in joint financial ventures. Spend some time on yourself.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You can't do everything on your own. You mustn't take on other people's responsibilities or you may find yourself irritable and exhausted. Catch up on your reading and correspondence.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Helping children may be rewarding and challenging. You are able to make changes in your home that will be favorable to all involved. Do things you enjoy instead of being a chameleon.

ACROSS 1. Glee 4. Gave temporarily 8. Opposed to 12. Possess debts 13. Pizzeria appliance 14. Deposited (eggs) 15. Most pleased 17. Determination 18. Apartment fee 19. War partner 20. Finally: 2 wds. 23. Use a lever 25. Talk big 26. Elevated 30. Ignited (a fuse) 31. Become accustomed 33. Trellis plant 34. Showed up 36. Make tracks 37. Barnyard mom 38. Winter Olympics participants 40. Human form 43. Combine 44. Mind cough 45. News flash 49. Five plus four 50. Matinee hero 51. Actress Arden 52. Round specks 53. Office chief 54. Allow DOWN 1. Trotting gait 2. Hooting creature 3. Positive vote 4. Mineral veins 5. Special occasion 6. Bird home 7. Demolition substance: abbr. 8. Without fail 9. Metal spike

10. Money drawer 11. In a lazy manner 16. Proceed too slowly 20. Quite skilled 21. Dress edging 22. Behind schedule 23. Burst (a balloon) 24. Decompose 26. Defective 27. Floor square 28. Eternally 29. Colors (hair) 31. Historic period 32. Family room 35. Poetic features 36. Speeding penalty 38. Compositions

for one 39. Slays 40. Watch strap 41. Michigan neighbor 42. Can blemish 43. Martial art 45. Protective

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 25.

mealtime garment 46. _ Aviv, Mideast city 47. “_ been wrong before!” 48. Butterfly catcher

V The worse avoided 26. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

UNDOUBTEDLY, something needs to be done about our Public Transport System. One cannot deny, upon entering Little Tokyo or its outskirts, the likelihood of being accosted by mini bus conductors as they

aggressively state their destination and, in like manner, solicit patronage in the highly competitive business of a public transportation service. This heightened competition has also led mini bus drivers to use their vehicles to block

the entrance and exit of the Leeward Bus Terminal. In the case of blocking the entrance, mini bus drivers hope to take advantage of meeting the potential passengers even before they enter the Terminal. Last Monday at the

Leeward Bus Terminal, at approximately 10am, the above practice was in full bloom. And it could have taken a turn for the worse had it not been for the intervention of a Female Police Officer. A bus had taken to blocking the exit hindering, in the process, the departure of four fully loaded buses. The exchange of words, threatening language, profanities and heightened tempers among the drivers, conductors, passengers affected by this action, did not escape the attention of a Female Police Officer who was already seated in one of the buses ready to depart. The Police Officer was

seen to approach the ‘guilty’ driver among others and in what seemed to have been a jiffy, the commotion ceased and the traffic congestion eased. The Police Officer returned to her seat and ‘all is well that ends well’; the buses took off to their respective destinations. THE VINCENTIAN was able to speak with the Police Officer and learned that she is Corporal #367 Nelica Kirby, and has been a member of the Royal SVG Police Force for 26 years. She is currently attached to Beat and Patrol. THE VINCENTIAN commends Corporal Kirby for her timely and

Corporal Kirby moved swiftly to quell a situation that could have developed into something far worse. professional intervention in the matter as referenced, and for averting what could have easily escalated into something worse, physical violence not excluded. (CD)

Sandy Bay woman dies in crash WELL KNOWN BUSINESSMAN Leon ‘Bigger Biggs’ Samuel said that he is concerned about the well-being of family of the woman who was killed in the vehicular accident, involving a vehicle his son was driving. Samuel’s son, Nicholas O’Garro of Sayers, Mesopotamia, was the driver of the vehicle (pickup) TH 994, which ran off the road onto a bank and then overturned. The mishap is said to have occurred along the Sandy Bay Public Road, in the vicinity of the popular Zero Tolerance Gar, at about 9:40 p.m. on March 8. Lucinda Brackin, a 46-year-old mother of two and a resident of London, Sandy Bay, one of four passengers in the vehicle, was pinned under the mangled vehicle and was pronounced dead on the spot by the District Medical Officer. Brackin was well-known in the North Windward community, she being an active karaoke participant. The other passengers were taken to the Georgetown Hospital for treatment. Samuel said that while his son’s life and those of the others were spared, the incident had shaken him up. “I am thinking of the well-being of the family who lost their loved one,” the businessman Lucinda Brackin died in unsuspecting circumstances in the community in which she was born and lived most of her life.

said. He confirmed that as of Wednesday, no charges were brought against O’Garro, and that he had been detained on Sunday and released on Tuesday. Samuel said that he was yet to talk to his son, and was unable to speak in any way about the circumstances surrounding the deadly crash. Investigations are said to be continuing. This is the second road fatality to have occurred in the North Windward area within recent times. On October 14, 2018, Clevique Huggins (18) and Denroy Baptiste (16) — both of Magum - died after the pickup in which they were travelling struck a parked truck along the Langley Park Public Road. In that matter, Dazzroy Brackin, 19-year-old resident of Magum, was charged with the offence of dangerous driving. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 27.

National Netball Tournament opens

Opening Ceremony took place. Addressing the ceremony, Doris Mc Intosh, recently reelected President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA), highlighted the need for the sport to be exposed to a higher level of coaching. “As we go Metrocint General Insurance Maple- Best Dressed Team forward, we must also look at THE 2020 NATIONAL NETBALL the aspect of coaching ...Good coaching TOURNAMENT fittingly got going last must be a frontal issue,” Mc Intosh Sunday, 8th March, International emphasised. Women’s Day. But Mc Intosh is looking outwards Teams marched from Victoria Park to correct the need for top coaching to the Kingstown Netball Centre — personnel. Home of Netball - where the formal “There is need, however, for some external expertise to come to our shores, to lend the necessary support and guidance in our quest to improve overall standards, as we go forward,” Mc Intosh proposed. “I thank nevertheless the local coaches who continue to work assiduously to prepare the various teams in the local tournaments as well as for SVG General Services Strikers – winners of the the various international Best Banner Award

tournaments,” the SVGNA President said in gratitude. Mc Intosh also welcomed the new sponsors of the Tournament - the Bank Of SVG - which has inked a three-year deal with the SVGNA, valued at $90, 000. i.e. $30,000 a year. Buy while Bank Of SVG is now the lead/title sponsor, previous primary sponsor FLOW will still make some financial input into the running of the Tournament. Also addressing last Sunday’s ceremony were Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture Cecil s Mc Kie, representative of the Bank Of SVG Alana Mc Master, representative of FLOW Daz Arthur and Chair of the Women in Sports Commission Suzanna Marie LeigertwoodOllivierre. On the Inspection of the teams on show, adjudicators declared Metrocint General Insurance Maple winners of the Best Dressed Award, and SVG General Services Strikers winners of the Best Banner prize. Sunday’s Ceremony culminated with an Exhibition match which saw a SVG Senior Team defeating the visiting Tobago Elite, 35-25.

Members of the SVG Senior Team at last Sunday’s Exhibition Match. Major Blazers, National Properties Netters, Cash Wiz Green Hill Sports Club, Grant Thornton Stars, French Verandah X- Ceed, SVG General Services Strikers and Clinchers. SVG General Maple, Island Bends Maple, JDS Success Radio, RSVG Police Gems, Prime Consulting 3 J’s Valley Strikers, Irie Travel Vets, Bethel High School Seniors, Combine School and KS Shipping Clinchers, comprise Division Four. And Sion Hill Junior Netball Team, is joined by JDS Success Radio Two, Bethel High School Juniors, Green Hill Sports Club, and Bishop’s College Kingstown. A minute silent was observed for the passing of former National Netballer and Sports Ambassador, Gailene Windsor, who passed away in New York last week.

Participating Teams Four teams are listed in Division One, seven in Division Two, nine in Division Three and six in Division Four. Lodged in Division One are defending double champions Twilight Trading X- Ceed, Metrocint General Insurance Maple, Mitres, and RSVG Police Elite. Making up Division Two are The visiting Tobago Elite team.

Scholarship on offer to Junior Netballer

Alana Mc Master of Bank of SVG. ONE YOUNG NETBALLER participating in the 2020 National Netball Club Tournament, can earn herself a two-year scholarship to the SVG

Community College. Providing the opportunity to that person is the new sponsors Bank Of SVG. Disclosure of this came from the bank’s representative Alana Mc Master, at last Sunday’s Opening Ceremony of the 2020 National Netball Tournament. Addressing the ceremony at the Kingstown Netball Centre, Mc Master said: “ Given that education is a very important component of our Corporate Social Responsibility, an amount of $ 4000 will be allocated in the form of a scholarship to the Most

Outstanding Player of the Tournament, to attend the SVG Community College for two years”. Her announcement drew loud applause from the large crowd at the venue. Mc Master noted that the $4000 is part of the bank’s yearly sponsorship to the tournament, which is a value of $30 000 per year for three years Apart from the actual sponsorship, the Social Club of the bank assisted in ‘sprucing up’ the Kingstown Netball Centre, ahead of last Sunday’s opening. “This year, we have

worked closely with the Executive of the Association and have invested some additional resources to improve the grounds and general facilities,” Mc Master disclosed. Mc Master related that the Bank Of SVG was moved to add its sponsorship to the National Netball Tournament, given the financially disadvantaged position of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association. “Unlike most of the major sports, Netball does not have an international or regional body that provides funding for

Wendie Wilson of Bank of SVG (left) makes a ceremonial presentation to President of the SVG Netball Association – Doris Mc Intosh, at last Sunday’s Opening Ceremony. administration and Tournaments,” Mc Master reasoned. The Bank Of SVG will be the lead sponsor of the

2020 National Netball Tournament, with FLOW also providing some financial support.

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28. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Women in Sports Commission launched Suzanna – Marie Leigertwood – Ollivierre, making an address at the Commission’s launch last Sunday, at the KNC.

THE ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Olympic Committee (SVGOC) last Sunday launched its Women in Sports Commission. Coinciding with the commemoration of International Women’s Day, the official launch, took place at the Kingstown Netball Centre, as part of the Opening Ceremony of the 2020 National Netball Tournament. Chair of the Commission Suzanna-Marie Leigertwood-Ollivierre outlined the purpose of the organisation. She noted that the Commission is about: “Supporting the holistic development of females in

Members of the Women in Sports Commission: from left- Suzette Jackson, sport through Suzanna-Marie Leigertwood-Ollivierre, Natasha Sandy- Stapleton, LaPrise training, Williams, Akiyama Johnson, Geshelle Peters and Vasha Adams. (Missing is seminars, Jackie Joseph) workshops and mentoring...Recognition the empowerment of girls and women into of achievements of individuals and organisations leadership roles in the various sporting promoting women in and through sport…Promotion organizations through the length and breadth of of the use of sport as a tool for gender equality and SVG”. empowerment…To create a path to management The Chair challenged the national sporting and leadership for women through sport.” associations to follow the lead of their respective She added, “ The commission will play its part in international federations, and implement appropriate programmes as prescribed by them, “to promote girls and women of all ages, colour, status and class, in sport and physical activity.” In addition to Leigertwood-Ollivierre, others serving on the Commission are: Natasha THE Girls’ High School Competition, played last Sandy—Stapleton (Vice Chair), Vasha Adams, (GHS) made it three Tuesday at the GHS Akiyama Johnson, Suzette Jackson, Jackie Joseph, straight titles in Hardcourt. Geshelle Peters and LaPrise Williams. Secondary Schools’ The GHS took the first The membership is drawn from persons who Female Volleyball when set 25-21, but the represent the various national sporting disciplines. they defeated the Georgetown Secondary Leigertwood-Ollivierre appealed to women and Georgetown Secondary won the second in an men with an interest in sport to contact any School in the finals of the unusual score-line of 392020 Inter-Secondary 37. member of the commission for further information. Schools Volleyball But the GHS stormed back to take the third, 25-12 and closed off the contest in the fourth set, winning 25-20. Ziel Cain of the GHS Girls’ High School was named MVP of the Final. GHS got to last Tuesday’s finals after beating the Bethel High Three straight- the Girls’ High School School. 25-14, 25-20 in the semifinals. defeating the Bethel the same venue, GSS Meanwhile, the High School. had taken the first set Georgetown Secondary In the Male final 25-17 when the match had a 16-25, 25-20, 16-14 between the Georgetown was aborted because of triumph over the West St Secondary School (GSS) rain. North Union, Inter-Secondary Schools Under-15 MVP of the Final- Ziel George Secondary, in the and the West St George The Male final is to be Cricket Champions. Cain (right), accepting other semi-finals. Secondary (WSGS), also replayed at a date to be her award from West St George went played last Tuesday at announced. Jomadean May. on to take the third spot,

GHS completes Volleyball hattrick

North Union champs U-15 Secondary SchoolsÊ Cricket

Union Island takes Schools’ B’ball title THE CHAMPIONSHIP title in Inter-Secondary Schools Male Basketball remains in the Grenadines. This, after the Union Island Secondary School dethroned their Grenadine counterpart, Bequia Community High School, in the finals of the Competition played earlier this week at the Arnos Shaquille Shelby - MVP of the Tournament.

Vale Sporting Complex. The Union Islanders, in fact, mauled the Bequia High, winning by an ‘unbelievable’ margin of 71 to 13 points, with Seon Alexander, 28 points, leading the scoring for the victors. Shaquille Shelby of the Union Island Secondary School was the MVP of the Tournament. The other Schools which took part in the Tournament were: Central Leeward, St Vincent Grammar School, Troumaca

Ontario Secondary, Sandy Bay Secondary, Bishop’s College Kingstown, St Martin’s Secondary and George Stephens Secondary.

NORTH UNION Secondary School (NUSS) are the new champions of Inter-Secondary Schools Under15 Cricket in SVG. The NUSS defeated George Stephens Secondary by 43 runs in the finals, played at Park Hill Playing Field earlier this week. The NUSS, batting first, made 134 for 7 off 30 overs. Jaden Gonsalves hit 23. Dexter Baynes took 2 for 20, Tyson Dalzell 2 for 36, Keyon Lewis 2 for 35, bowling for George Stephens. In their turn at the crease, George Stephens could manage only 91 from 16.2 overs. Dexter Baynes, 19, and Elron Glasgow, 18, were the only batsmen to get into double figures. Lorenzo Ellis took 4 for 25, Glenroy Joseph took 2 for 22, Kevin Shallow 2 for 20, to account for George Stephens’ demise.

I.B.A.ALLEN

I.B.A.ALLEN

Union Island Secondary - new Inter-Secondary Schools Male Basketball Champions.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 29.

Sports

The Jules’ challenge IT WILL BRING some consolation to Gwenneth Anthony with the receipt of a plaque from the North Leeward Sports and Cultural Organisation. And the winner of the Vinlec Jules Anthony Hard Ball Competition will get the Challenge trophy in his name. Gwenneth is Jules’ wife, but she might be buoyed that his legacy is appreciated. Police etched their name on the new symbol, rewards for their performance in the 2019 competition. The ceremony took place at the Beach Front Restaurant in Fitz Hughes or Chateaubelair last Sunday. It must have been some satisfaction to Jules, a continuation of a process he worked towards. It was the complete package, and further endorsement is that all of the sponsors: Rudy’s Electrical, DMG Furniture and Rudy’s Electrical and Vinlec pledged ongoing commitment. Rudy takes care of the Under 16 Football, while the Federation joins in with the senior version. Jules had an affinity with cricket, but he had established himself as a worthwhile ally in the football circles. He knew the value of sports, and once the interest was there from anyone in North Leeward, Jules was willing to make his input. The turnout at his funeral was testimony of the respect he earned from the nation. The honour given to him is another proof of his impact. The onus is on those he inspired to press on. While the admiration is soothing, it will bring Jules greater joy if players fulfil his dream and use the platform to transform their lives into productivity. Kesrick Williams is a good example. Kesrick’s success is a feather in Jules’ cap. It was the North Leeward competition that he was nurtured. When Obed McCoy was raw, the Petit Bordel Playing Field is where he polished off the Diamond. President Kishore Shallow will take some credit for drafting Obed into his Coulls Hill Rangers squad for the North Leeward competition. Jules encouraged the participation of players and teams from outside the region. It raised the standard in the area. Even though some North Leeward residents may not have been pleased with Police dominance of the competition, they will accept that they have to raise their game. In any event, there are representatives from the North Leeward community on the Police outfit. Jules was perhaps the Public Relations Officer for the Cumberland Playing Field. He lobbied for its completion. And he took interest in the preparation and maintenance of the facility as much as anyone else. When the lights are installed, that will be another reason for rejoicing for him. The North Leeward Sports and Cultural Organisation will have to revive the North Leeward Under 15 competition. Memories are vivid of North Leeward’s contribution to the National Under-15 Cricket. Pundits will remind that once North Leeward Under 15 was vibrant, it spilled over to the national level. Young footballers are grafting their way into the national set-up. At least three players were part of the squad which played in Nicaragua recently. Female cricketers were also rewarded. DMG Furniture is taking care of that aspect. Jules’ impact was beyond the sporting arena. His involvement spanned the spectrum. It is no wonder his name will continue to pop up.

100s galore in Premier Division Cricket been ample to force a win, but FLOW Radcliffe, wanting to rub Deron Greaves Romano Pierre the last grain of salt into the hit 124 for 112 for FLOW wounds of Victors ONE, went FLOW Radcliffe. Radcliffe. on to continue to the loss of against Guardian their 7th wicket before they declared at 503, in a match played General Saints at Sion Hill. Guardian General Saints at Arnos Vale One. All of this came after a hapless totaled 205 all out in their first showing by Victors One in a first innings, with Seon Sween scoring 37 and the otherwise batting innings total of 99 all out. Their combination of Lindon James and batsmen, except for Atticus Hyron Shallow, combining this Browne 38, had little answer to leading wicket-taker Asif Hooper, time with the ball to cause their demise. 4 for 63 and Othneil Lewis, 3 for James returned 6 for 44 and 7. Hyron Shallow 3 for 47. James Behind by 405 runs on first returned to carry his bat through innings, one would have to say for an unbeaten 102 in a FLOW that Victors One showed some Rivals total of 303 all out. Kody improvement by getting to 153, thanks to Kenson Dalzell, 47 and Horne contributed 48. Geron Wyllie grabbed 4 for 74 bowling Browne 45. Lewis took 3 for 57 for Guardian General Saints. for FLOW Radcliffe to help hand The match was called off at the Victors One defeat by an innings closure of the FLOW Rivals Lindon James – and 251 runs. innings. In the other Premier Division 102 and 6 for fixture, FLOW Rivals took first 44 for FLOW I.B.A. ALLEN innings points in a drawn match Rivals.

THREE century-makers in one innings totaling in excess of 500, sent the cricket pundits and archivists in search of a better single innings performance in Premier Division Cricket here. Deron Greaves, 124, Romano Pierre, 112, and Shamon Hooper, 107, would have easily combined for a team total that would have

Shamon Hooper 107 for FLOW Radcliffe.

SVGCC in low-scoring win COMING OFF their previous weekend victory over Strike Eagles which pushed them to the top of the Group A standings, Smashers must have been looking forward to consolidate that position in the National Lotteries 50 overs First Division. But, in what was in any language a lowscoring encounter at Stubbs, they went under to the French Verandah SVG Community College by 33 runs. The College took first knock and managed to barely pass the hundred mark, closing at 108 all out in 30.4 overs, this after they were 50 for 7 at one stage of their innings. Rohan Ash grabbed 3 College wickets for 28. Sensing victory once again, Smashers might just have picked up the wrong smell for they were all out in 21 overs for a mere 75 runs, Joelano Neil getting 36 of those runs, and Azar Williams, 3 for 21, and Reynolson Hillocks, 3 for 22, accounting for their humiliation. And at the London Playing Field, Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward’s Hanif Oliver, playing at home

so to speak, silenced Police One with a scintillating even 100. The lawmen put up a decent 235 in 35.2 overs, thanks to the evergreen Parnel Browne with 58. Denison Hoyte, with figures of 3 for 22, was the best bowler for Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward, whose reply was confident and well-paced. They eased to 236 for the loss of just four wickets in 26 overs, to claim victory by six wickets.

In addition to Oliver’s 100, Mickron McDonald was unbeaten on 61. At Arnos Vale Two, defending champions CJ Julius Anthony MSDA Northern Stars eased closer to a quarter finals berth, when they thrashed Radcliffe Two by 175 runs. Northern Stars amassed 274 all out from 37.1 overs. They did so by way of the bats of McLeon Williams, 48, and Elron Lewis and Newborn Joseph, 45 each. Paulson

Hanif Oliver stroked an even 100 for Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward. Mack took 3 for 49 bowling for Radcliffe Two. Radcliffe Two never got into any stride, and were sent packing, all out for 99 in 21.3 overs. Dawson Cottle bagged 4 for 28 to ensure victory for Northern Stars. I.B.A. ALLEN

Turtin turns it up on North Leeward NATIONAL and Windward Islands wicketkeeper-batter Glendeen Turtin, took the CJ Julius Anthony MSDA Northern Girls bowlers to the cleaners, in last weekend’s lone cricket fixture in the National Female Division 40 Overs Competition. Turtin, with a blistering 126, led her team — JG Tigress and Son — to a mammoth 264 for 4 off a reduced allotment of 29 overs. She was ably assisted by Crystal John, 54. In their turn at the crease, CJ Julius

Anthony MSDA Northern Girls were never in the chase and were eventually dismissed for 103 in 20 overs, to hand JG Tigress victory by a whopping 161 runs. Sue-Ann Matthews top scored for North Leeward with 32. Lafiena Sam, 3 for 7, and Roshelle John, 3 for 19, were the chief wicket-takers for JG Tigress. The match was played at the Buccament Playing Field. I.B.A. ALLEN

Glendeen Turtin, 126, had no mercy on the North Leeward bowling attack.

V

30. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Kyle Lawrence

Ashanti Richards

Odesha John- Nanton

Amal Glasgow

Five more qualify for Carifta FIVE MORE LOCAL ATHLETES have made the qualifying standards set by Team Athletics SVG for the 2020 Carifta Games. Competing at last weekend’s Trinidad and Tobago Carifta trials at the Haseley Crawford Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago, Kyle Lawrence qualified in the Under-17 Boys 100m clocking 10.87 seconds, which was also his personal best; Amal Glasgow did likewise in the Under-17 Boys 400m in a time of time 49.19 seconds; Nellie Ambriton clocked 1 minute 59.92 seconds to qualify in the Under17 Boys 800m; Ashanti Richards in the Under 17 Girls 1500m, stopped the clock at 5 minutes 01 seconds; Odesha JohnNanton clocked 1 minute 04.29 seconds to make the mark in the Girls Under-20 400m Hurdles. The qualifying times as set by Team Athletics SVG were: 11 secs. for the Boys Under-17 100m; 49. 50 secs for the Boys Under-17 400m; 2 minutes for the Boys Under-17 800m; 5 minutes 15 seconds for the Girls Under-17 1500m; 1 minute 05 seconds for the Girls Under-20 400m Hurdles. The five join Ulanda Lewis who has qualified in the Girls Under-17 100 and 200m; Uroy Ryan in the Boys Under17 Long Jump and High Jump, and Handal Roban, in the Boys Under-20 800m. Lewis, who also competed at the Trinidad and Tobago Carifta Trials, did 11.81 seconds in the 100m and 24.21 seconds in the 200m. The rest of the SVG

Nellie Ambriton team at the Trinidad and Tobago trials included Romar Stapleton, who competed in the Boys Under-20 100m; Annecia Richards in the Girls Under-20 400m, and Marlene Richards in the Girls Under-17 1500m. The 2020 Junior Carifta Games are set for Bermuda over the Easter weekend. SVG came away with three bronze medals from the 2019 Junior Carifta Games in Cayman Islands: Ulanda Lewis was a double bronze medallist in the Girls Under-17 100 and 200m, while Handal Roban took bronze in the Under-20 800m.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020. 31.

Classifieds

Respect our laws, Magistrate warns SENIOR Magistrate Rickie Burnett has issued a warning to non-nationals who disrespect this country’s immigration laws. “If you want to come to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, you are welcome to come at any time, but you have to respect the laws of SVG just as we have to respect the laws of Grenada”, the Magistrate told Mario Gannis, 23-year-old musician of St. Marks, Grenada, who is said to be wanted in his homeland for indecent assault, but arrived here illegally about two months ago. Gannis had pleaded guilty to entering the state by boat, without a passport, entering the state at a place, other than a port of entry; entering the state by boat and disembarking without the consent of an Immigration Officer, and willfully allowing himself to be landed as a prohibited immigrant. The Court heard that around 12:15 p.m on March 5, Inspector Nolan Dalaway headed a party of police officers to a house at Vermont where they met the Grenadian. He was questioned, and admitted entering the state illegally. The Senior Magistrate fined him $250 forthwith or one month in prison on each charge. The sentences will run concurrently, if the fines are not paid. A removal order was also made for him. (H.H)

ANGUS CHARLES

MARIA ELSA BOUCHER

HENRY HAMILTON PARSONS a.k.a. Buster

Mt Zion Spiritual Baptist Church Sion Hill Tuesday, 10th March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Community Center Paget Farm, Bequia Sunday, 8th March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Paget Farm, Bequia

6W -RVHSK¶V Spiritual Baptist Church North Union Sunday, 8th March, 2020 Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: McFun Cemetery

BERNARD MCCONNIE CLIVE ROBERTS Mary of the Star Roman Catholic Church Sandy Bay Saturday, 7th March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: London Cemetery, Sandy Bay

FREDERICK FRANKLYN Open Bible Standard Church Dascent Cottage Saturday, 7th March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

BERTRAN ANDERSON GURLEY Biabou New Testament Church of God Viewing: 2:00 p.m. Service: 3:00 p.m. Officiating: Pastor Carson Ferdinand

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FRIDAY,

MARCH 13, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.11

www.thevincentian.com

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PRESCHOOL TEACHER KILLED Argyle International Airport. Unconfirmed reports A PARK HILL woman who are that Mickeisha and had dreams of one day her 9-year- old daughter becoming a graduate received a ride with a teacher, had those dreams pastor from Colonarie to cut short in tragic fashion. Park Hill, after arriving Mickeisha Gumbs, a from Kingstown. 26-year-old Preschool Someone saw her getting teacher and mother of into the vehicle and three girls, was killed in called King at his work that North Central place to inform him of Windward community what they had witnessed. sometime around 5:30 King then left his job and pm last Saturday, travelled to Park Hill allegedly by her where he aggressively boyfriend, Vandike ‘Dez’ confronted Mickeisha. King, 33-year-old King, unconfirmed Security Officer at the reports said, went in Stories by KENVILLE HORNE

The spot where Mickeisha fell and died has become something of a ‘shrine’.

and her children, as well as a number of other young family members, but about twenty minutes later she heard a close friend of Mickeisha calling to her. It took a while before she could discern that the friend was saying, ‘God, Josette, Dez a kill Mickiesha’. “I start to run in the direction and when I was almost there, I saw a small crowd. Somebody A sister’s trauma come to me and say don’t come any closer. I pull Mickeisha Gumbs was away from them and I the youngest child among went down. When I went a brood of five. down, I saw my sister. I Her oldest sibling notice blood was coming Joseth Gumbs, told THE from her neck, her eyes VINCENTIAN that she were rolling up and she last saw her sister was like gasping for air, twenty minutes before with her daughter lying her death. on her,” said the grieving She said that sister who admitted to Mickeisha had just bursting into a scream. returned from Kingstown and was finalizing plans Mickiesha’s dream for her daughter’s 10th Joseth described her birthday next week. sister as very ambitious, Her sister then left home with her 9-year-old creative and “jokeyfy”, sentiments shared by daughter, a close friend search of a cutlass, and when that was unsuccessful, he is said to have gone to his home and returned with a knife. It is that knife which, it is believed, King used to inflict multiple stab wounds to Gumbs. The woman succumbed to her wounds on the spot, in the presence of her 9year-old daughter.

BARROUALLIE MAN ALLEGEDLY COMMITS SUICIDE POLICE say they are investigating the circumstances surrounding an alleged suicide in Barrouallie. According to preliminary investigations, on Saturday 7, Kemron ‘Palo’ Fraser, 43-year-old labourer of Barrouallie, allegedly shot himself in the head with a gun. Kemron ‘Palo’ Fraser

The police say that when they were called to the scene, they found Fraser who was unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead by the District Medical Officer. A relative of the deceased said that he believed Fraser took his life because of relationship issues. “His girlfriend told him that them finished and he take it on,” the relative

said. A post mortem Examination is expected to be conducted on the body of the deceased to ascertain the cause of death. Should Fraser’s death be deemed a suicide, it would be the second suicide in Barrouallie for the year, the first being Davidson Charles who was found hanging from the rafters in his home on January 12.

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

Mickeisha Gumbs, pictured with her one-year-old daughter, was stabbed multiple times by her enraged boyfriend.

many others in the community who knew her. She had plans to enroll in the Division of Teacher Education of the SVG Community College, and was attending evening classes towards fulfilling that intention. In the meantime, she was happy to serve at a preschool to which she was assigned under the YES programme. Joseth said that her sister had a five-year relationship with her alleged killer, who had fathered her one-year-old child. “Lately it (relationship) was getting worse, and the

more she told him it was finished and don’t come back, he would find ways to come at her home especially during the night”. As it stands, Joseth said she will now be charged with caring for the one-year-old niece, while the other two girls will live with their father. She wants to see justice for her sister. “He shouldn’t just get a few years but the maximum,” said Joseth. Mickiesha’s death brings the homicide count for the year to four. (See Story on Page 4)

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