TheVincentianPDF-12/14/2018

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FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 14, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.50

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

CANNABIS-RELATED

BILLS PASSED Cannabis for Religious Purpose Bill 2018, was shelved after what Prime ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, on Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves described as “cogent reasons” advanced by the Tuesday 11th December 2018, took the Rastafarian community. first official step towards establishing a The Bill provides for “the Medicinal Cannabis Industry, when Parliament passed the Medicinal Cannabis decriminalization of the use of cannabis as a sacrament in adherence to a Bill 2018. religious practice by such religious That Bill provides “for the bodies.” establishment of a medicinal cannabis The Bills now await the assent of the industry, to regulate the supply, Governor General before becoming law. possession and use of cannabis for The Bills were re-presented to medicinal purposes.”

Parliament on Monday 10th December In addition, Parliament gave its

by Saboto Caesar, Minister of approval to the Cannabis Cultivation Agriculture.

(Amnesty) Bill 2018, which provides, It was he who, on Thursday inter alia, for amnesty to be granted to September 6, 2018, had originally tabled persons who have been cultivating the Bills in the SVG parliament, for cannabis and who are desirous of their first reading, after which they becoming part of the medicinal were sent to a select committee. marijuana programme.

That amnesty is made retroactive to August 01, 2018 and will extend to July A vision 31, 2019 or ‘such further period as the Caesar, in initiating the debate on House of Assembly may determine by Monday, described cannabis resolution.’

A third Bill - the Permitted Use of Continued on Page 3.

Stories by DAYLE DASILVA

As he had done from the outset, Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, led the debate on the Cannabis-related Bills.

Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews (standing), MP for North Leeward, spoke of his knowledge of the ‘existing marijuana’ industry.

BILL ON GANJA’S RELIGIOUS USE SHELVED

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves explaining to Parliament the reasons for shelving the Bill related to Rastafarian use of cannabis for religious purposes.

THE PERMITTED Use of Cannabis for Religious Purpose Bill 2018 has been shelved, at the request of the Rastafarian community.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said on

Monday in Parliament, that representation in this regard was made by members of the Rastafarian community to the Select Committee set up to further discuss and

seek community input with respect to the aforementioned Bill, and the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill and

Rastafarians came out to enforce to the Parliament their disagreement with the Permitted Use of Cannabis for Continued on Page 3. Religious Purpose Bill and more.

V Jarvis and Noel: Top prison public speakers 2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

TWO PRISON inmates had their self-esteem enhanced last Tuesday, when they topped different sections of Public Speaking Competition held at Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, last Tuesday.

Junior Jarvis jumped to the top of the Prepared Speech category with a ‘smooth’ delivery of his take on the topic: ‘Crime, causes and solutions’.

He looked at “socioeconomic ills” which he described as causes as well as effects, and while he acknowledged that

economic underdevelopment might be associated with crime, he cited that some countries with vibrant economies still suffered from criminal activity.

He pondered on whether anyone can give realistic solutions on such an elusive topic.

Jarvis urged listeners to “stop playing the blame game”, and pointed out that there is an internal disease called crime in every one of us.

“We all are criminal material though not necessarily criminals,”

the former journalist proffered.

With some cynicism, he pointed out that politicians and lawyers “beat the system” as regards being caught in the criminal network.

Jarvis wondered which law has ever stopped a crime, asked for “serious self-examination,” urged listeners to engage in “soul-searching” and to “put pride aside and embrace humility.”

The eight participants had ten minutes in which to make their delivery.

Alana Hudson placed second, with another female Jolette Laborde in third position. Fourth spot was taken by Eugene Noel, with Bobby Joseph in fifth.

The other participants were Shian Forde, Luke Williams and Friekesha Douglas.

Junior Jarvis took the Prepared Speech category of the 2018 Prison Inmates Public Speaking Competition.

category.

Noel pulled the topic ‘Bugs’, and his delivery caught the attention of not only the judges, but some sections of the Noel eclised his rivals inmates. They roared in approval as Eugene linked his presentation Eugene Noel, who to the existence of the recently had a 30-year blood sucking parasites sentence imposed on him, eclipsed his rivals to to the correctional institution. win the Impromptu

Eugene Noel, recently incarcerated, was entertaining and relevant and took the Impromptu Category of the Competition.

Jolette Laborde gave her version of the “Court” in her impromptu address. That was sufficient to put her in second position.

Third position was shared between Bobby Joseph whose topic was ‘Money’, and Junior Jarvis who spoke on ‘Computers’. (WKA)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 3.

News 3 Cannabisrelated Bills passed

A section of the gallery that was well patronized for the marijuanarelated debate.

Continued from Front Page.

setting up of a medicinal cannabis authority and a Cannabis Advisory Council, access to medicinal cannabis, licensing and, enforcement.

The Bill also addressed issues relating to standards and according to Caesar, the cannabis supplied under this Act shall meet the standards for the specified markets.

“We are not going to accept lower quality, but must meet the standards established,” he said.

Persons wanting to become part of the industry and cultivate medicinal cannabis, will also require a licence, which Caesar said was a first in the country, noting that this was not a requirement for other traditional crops.

cultivation as “an expansion of the country’s agricultural sector,” and held out that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was poised to develop a modern medicinal cannabis industry.

There was global focus on marijuana, Caesar said, and four main parts to its usage — cannabis for patient care, cannabis for scientific research and development, cannabis for religious and recreation use.

However, the Bill dealt with the first two which entailed establishing an industry around research where local strains will be researched.

The agriculture minister explained that the Bill contained ten Opposition support, parts which included the but…

alternative than to return to the And while there was support for the two Bills hills.

He further called for from the Opposition, members of that side did more support for traditional farmers who raise concerns. did not own lands to be Parliamentary Representative for North able to acquire some acreage deterring them Leeward, Roland ‘Patel’ from venturing into the Matthews said that he forests. has come to know and With respect to the understand the issue of the availability marijuana industry. of lands for the purpose His concern was that of cultivating cannabis, of the farmers already the Minister of Lands involved in the cultivation of marijuana. Montgomery Daniel Although there was talk assured the House that some 3500 acres of stateof special treatment for owned lands have been traditional farmers, he identified for lease to noted that not all of persons wanting to them would be granted become involved in that licences. endeavour.

“There is too much And as has been the political interference,” he NDP’s position, their told members of the MPs pressed for the House, adding that he government to not just thought the medicinal decriminalize, but cannabis industry was legalize the ‘herb’, with set up for some farmers to fail, which would leave Matthews making the suggestion that persons them with no other be allowed to have in

their possession up to 56 grammes of cannabis for recreational use.

Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday prefaced his endorsement of Matthews’ view by saying, “..when I see these changes taking place, I am still amazed that we are so tentative, so almost apologetic to what we are adopting in this legislation.”

He proceeded to reiterate the view that small quantities of cannabis ought to be committed for recreational use without criminal penalty, noting that although it was the government’s intention to decriminalize up to 56 grammes, there was still an EC$500 fee for would be offenders.

Further discussion is expected Wednesday December 19 when the House next meets to discuss the Drugs

Prevention and Misuse (Amendment) Bill of 2018.

As it stands, St, Vincent and the Grenadines becomes the fourth CARICOM member country to remove legal encumbrances to the cultivation and use of cannabis for medical/scientific research and pharmaceutical development. The others to have done so are Antigua and Barbuda, Belize and Jamaica where, additionally, each home is allowed to cultivate no more than four plants for personal use.

Those countries have also moved to wipe away convictions for persons whose lives had been turned upside down after serving time for possession of small amounts of marijuana.

(More on Page 13.)

Bill on ganja’s religious use shelved it.”

He explained that the Cannabis Cultivation reasons given were “resident (Amnesty) Bill. with their own philosophy and And while the last two Bills their practical assessment of as referenced were passed at a all the circumstances…. They sitting of the Parliament last say it is a matter of their Tuesday, after what can be philosophical approach, their described as robust but levity.” forthcoming debate, the Bill The Rastafarian community relating to use of cabnnabis for had stated, Dr. Gonsalves religious purposes was said, that the state was not in withdrawn for debate. a position, had no authority, to According to the Prime accord them the right to Minister, the Rastafarians practise their sacrament, and “gave cogent reasons as to why that they in fact had an we ought not to proceed with inalienable right to do so.

Continued from Front Page.

“And that the state had been coercive in implementing the law, and that they suffered — fined and in some instances jailed,” he said.

Another ground of objection was predicated on the status of the International Narcotics Conventions and the International Narcotics Control Board located in Vienna, Austria, they said, might want to see how the legislation is working.

“And they do not want to have any international body coming to see how they are

conducting themselves in their tabernacles, and that they were satisfied with the existing regime of tolerance, where for a decade or so that the state has not intervened or interfered with their worship and the use of their sacrament,” Gonsalves said.

Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves said in his contribution, that he hoped both sides will be able to sit down and discuss the issue further, and the local Rastafarian community would see the light as those in

Jamaica and Antigua or even the native Indians (First People) of Canada and the United States, who use peyote as a religious product, in allowing a space for sacrament use.

“I hope that that is a conversation that we can continue to have with our Rastafarian brethren about; yes it cannot be completely free, but the appropriate level of regulation and restriction in that regard,” the finance minister said.

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Child molester gets 30 years her school uniform when Noel had sex with her during all six ordeals.

THOSE WHO sexually In relation to the abuse children and those offence on January 13, harbouring such an 2014, Noel was intention, were sent a sentenced to 20 years in strong message last prison.

Friday, December 7.

He was sentenced to The signal came from five years each on the Justice Brian Cottle as three charges in relation he sentenced former to the ordeals October 3, police officer Eugene 2014.

Noel to a total of 30 The five-year years in prison, for sentences will run sexually abusing a 12concurrently, but year-old girl multiple consecutively to the 20times, almost four years year sentence. ago.

Noel was also On November 13 this sentenced to five years year, a nine-member each on the two charges mixed jury at the High in relation to the offences Court Criminal Assizes on February 3, 2014. found Noel guilty on six Those sentences will counts of unlawful sexual also run concurrently, intercourse with a girl but consecutively to the under the age of 13, but other sentences.

Justice Cottle had Justice Cottle, postponed sentencing, however, took into pending a Social Inquiry account the four months Report on Noel.

Noel had spent on Noel, who was no remand. As a result, the longer a police officer 32-year-old Belair when he committed the resident will spend 29 crime, had sexual years and eight months intercourse with the behind bars. child three times October 3, 2014; twice February A late, useless plea 3, 2014, and once January 13, 2014.

Noel was According to the unrepresented and prosecution’s evidence, conducted his own the girl, who was at the mitigation plea. He time a Form 1 secondary maintained his innocence school student, was in even though a jury had Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

found him guilty.

“I don’t understand how the jury come back with that verdict. The jury pick out what they want to believe,” he said, adding that the prosecution’s case was riddled with inconsistencies and inadmissible evidence.

According to Noel, he was supposed to get married on December 15, and his fiancé’s birthday was on December 7, the same day of his sentencing, and lamented that he will now have to go to prison leaving his children outside.

“I am very disappointed with the findings of the jury. I read in the Social Inquiry Report that the mother said she wanted me to be put away… she don’t like what I did to her daughter,” he continued.

Noel also took a swipe at social media, the electronic media and the newspapers, expressing dissatisfaction with the way they reported on his case.

“I grew up in the Church, and if the news have to paint this picture they are putting fear in people. They are painting a picture out there as if I

am a rapist. I have to appeal this matter because I can’t go in there (jail) and sit down,” Noel projected.

Justice Cottle has his say Before handing down the sentences, Justice Cottle reminded Noel that a jury had found him guilty following a trial.

The Judge also made it clear that the media cannot influence him, and he was the one who was going to sentence him.

“I have no social media accounts, and I don’t listen to those things,” he added.

Cottle described the crimes as very serious, and expressed the view that some planning was involved.

Reflecting on the evidence, he said that one incident took place at the beginning of the school term when Noel took the child to a business place and had sex with her on a toilet seat, following which he placed a ring on her finger.

“You wanted to have sex with her there again, she refused, and you took your ring back,” the

15 years for sex with minor PERSONS who commit repeated sexual acts on children have been receiving consecutive prison sentences, as Justice Brian Cottle continues to take offences of this nature very seriously.

And the Judge has issued a stern warning to offenders and would be offenders.

“Any offender, who commits repeated sexual acts on children could expect consecutive sentences from this court”, he declared last Friday, just before sentencing 55year-old George Mc Donald to a total of 15 years behind bars for having sexual intercourse with a 10-year-old girl twice on separate dates in April, 2012.

Mc Donald was charged on two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, an offence which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. A nine-member jury had found him guilty on both charges at an earlier sitting of the High Court Criminal Assizes, but sentencing was postponed.

Mc Donald was sentenced to ten years and five years to run consecutively.

The Judge, reflecting on the evidence, noted that Mc Donald

had sex with the child while she was at her grandmother’s home, and again when her grandmother had sent her to his home to collect a cutlass.

Cottle highlighted that when the child reported what happened to family members, including her grandmother, mother and aunt, they did not believe her. The girl had also reported it to social workers, who contacted the victim’s family, but their response was that the allegations were impossible.

The Judge stressed the psychological trauma the child may have endured by trying to convince family members who thought she was lying. They had also given evidence against her at the trial.

In his mitigation plea earlier, Mc Donald’s lawyer Ronald Marks said his client, who grew up at Orange Hill, on the Windward side of the country, is quiet, well known in the community and hardworking. According to Marks, Mc Donald works practically every day with National Properties on various farms as a labourer. He added that there were no injuries sustained during

the ordeals, no violence, no threats; and from the facts, Mc Donald was the one who caused the two allegations to come to court.

Marks acknowledged that there was a breach of trust, the disparity in ages between Mc Donald and the victim, and that the offence was committed twice, but pointed out that there seemed to have been no planning, no abduction, and no use of drugs or forced entry into the victim’s house. In his view, the mitigating factors were strong in the circumstances.

But Crown Counsel Karim Nelson disagreed, highlighting that the victim was 10 years old at the time, and in the second incident, she indicated that she was pushed onto the bed, and when she asked what he was doing, he told her to “shut up”.

“The only mitigating feature is that he had no previous convictions”, Nelson contended.

“It is our submission that the aggravating features in this case far outweigh the mitigating ones”, he countered.

Judge stressed.

“At the trial you admitted that on your birthday you were with her at a house in Villa”,” he reminded the convicted man.

Cottle also cited aspects of the Social Inquiry Report noting, for example, that Noel’s aunt thought he had the propensity to be attracted by teenage girls.

Unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13

Eugene Noel tried to make a case for himself after he had been found guilty. carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Woman beater jailed for three years A MAN who beat his common-law wife causing her bodily harm, after accusing her of having sexual intercourse with the Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Agriculture, was sentenced to three years in prison at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The accused, Danroy Caesar, also called Delroy Charles, had pleaded guilty last week to assaulting the woman, causing her bodily harm, and was remanded for sentencing.

The facts revealed that around 9:25 a.m.

November 30, 2018, the couple came into Kingstown, and Caesar accompanied the woman to the Ministry of Agriculture, where she had gone to speak to the PS about a job.

When the interview was finished, they left and, on their way, back to their home in Kingstown Park, the woman stopped to urinate. Caesar proceeded to search her underwear, accusing her of having sex with the PS, which she denied.

Thereafter, he began to box her in the face, inflicting injuries. He took her to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and told her to make up a story as to how she sustained the injuries. But the young lady spoke the truth, and a report was made to the police.

The woman, who was summoned to the witness stand, told the Court she was in a three-year relationship with Caesar, which produced three children, including a twin.

According to her, Caesar was in the habit of physically abusing her. She said he falsely accused her of having relationships with other men, including her neighbour.

The woman said that in order to get out of the situation, she sought refuge at her mother’s place.

But her mother would give her a hard time, resulting in her having to go back to live with Caesar.

She said that when they went to the Ministry of Agriculture on the date in question, “I told him I wanted to use the bathroom, and he said ‘You will use it somewhere else’.”

She said the PS spoke to him, and he even asked the PS for money.

According to the woman, on their way home following the interview, Caesar showed her some bushes and told her to urinate there. He then searched her underwear and breasts, and told her the PS was having sex with her.

Before the sentence was handed down, the defendant told the woman, “I really, really sorry, and asking you to trash out the case. I help you out plenty of time too.”

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the woman has already been receiving assistance from government, as well as counselling.

Caesar is said to have had a previous conviction, but it was not before the Court.

V Buju released.

Back in Jamaica

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 , 2018. 5.

Regional

Section of the crowd awaiting the arrival of reggae artiste Buju Banton at The Norman Manley International Airport. (Photo Credit: current tingz) JAMAICAN DANCEHALL SINGER Buju Banton, real name Mark Myrie, one of reggae’s most popular artistes before his career was curtailed by a 10-year prison sentence, was released from the McRae

(Federal) Correctional Facility in Atlanta, Georgia, last Friday, after serving seven years behind bars.

In February 2011, Buju was found guilty of illegal possession of a firearm and conspiracy to possess

cocaine with intent to distribute. A Drug Enforcement Administration informant had provided evidence of Banton brokering a cocaine deal in Florida.

The reggae singer was sentenced to 10 years in prison, but two years later a judge threw out the gun charge and reduced the prison sentence to seven years.

Soon after his release from prison, Buju returned to Jamaica, where a throng of fans greeted him upon his arrival.

Jamaica’s culture minister Olivia Grange told the Guardian, “There’s no getting over the fact that he was convicted, but Buju was loved long before he was convicted and he will be

loved just the same, even if he comes home in handcuffs.”

Local media reported that Buju was dressed in a white long-sleeve sweater, a pair of jeans, boots, and wearing a ‘tam’ that covered his locks, when he arrived at the Norman Manley International Airport, last Friday evening.

Photos circulating on social media showed airport employees taking photos of and with the Grammy-winning artiste who, according to word circulating in Kingston, Jamaica, already has several performances lined up.

Some fans shouted to him as he passed by, but many more who had been waiting in front the airport to see him were

Heads of government and other heads of delegation at the CARICOM Special Meeting on the CSME. (Photo Credit: (caricom.org))

More worries to move freely within CARICOM MORE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) nationals are to be allowed to seek work in fellow member states.

This was revealed, as CARICOM leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the vision of free movement and a shared market space.

The CARICOM Single Market was given a major jolt when regional leaders committed to the St Ann’s Declaration on the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), at their two-day 18th special meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, which ended last week Tuesday, in Trinidad.

The agreement, which member states have committed to implement between 2019 and 2020,

takes the CSME to the next stage of progression, while clearing up several ambiguities under the Revised CARICOM Treaty signed 17 years ago.

The leaders agreed that those member states “so willing” would move towards full free movement within the next three years.

The St. Ann’s Declaration made provision for the inclusion of agricultural workers, beauty service practitioners, barbers and security guards to the categories of skilled nationals already entitled to move freely and seek employment within the community.

In addition, the Heads agreed that a skills certificate issued by one

member state would be recognized by all member states.

A decision was also taken to finalize the regime that permits CARICOM nationals and companies to take part in member governments’ procurement processes, by next year, while undertaking the necessary steps to allow for mutual recognition of companies incorporated in a CARICOM member state.

Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who has lead responsibility for the CSME in CARICOM’s quasi-Cabinet, told reporters at a post-summit briefing Tuesday night that renewed commitment by the member states should bring some level of confidence to CARICOM

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who has lead responsibility for the CSME, speaking to the media at the conclusion of the meeting in T&T. (Photo Credit: Caribbean 360) citizens about the stability of its systems, especially in these times of global uncertainty.

Mottley declared that CARICOM leaders were not just paying lip-service to the process, as many have put aside their contentions in the name of progress within the CSME. (Source: CARICOM Today, Barbados Today)

Buju waved to fans as he walked through the Norman Manley International Airport. (Photo Credit: Urban Islandz) left disappointed, as he was reportedly taken out through another exit to a police facility to be processed.

A report surfacing on the weekend said that Buju headed straight for the recording studio, once all the formalities were complete.

Though relatively lesser

known outside his native country, Banton broke the Bob Marley-held record for most Number One singles in Jamaica. However, Banton was universally condemned for his single “Boom Bye Bye,” a track that endorsed killing gay people. (Source: The Guardian, Billboard, Loop News)

Earthquake burst off St. Kitts THE TRINIDAD-BASED Seismic Research Centre (SRC) of the St. Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies Saturday said that a burst of 54 earthquakes occurred north of St. Kitts during a 21hour period. The biggest had a magnitude of 4.1.

In a brief statement, SRC said that the quakes were recorded during the period 4.28 pm (local time) on Friday to 9.50 am (local time) on Saturday.

It said that the 54 earthquakes were in the magnitude range of 1.2 to 4.1, but that there have been “no felt reports thus far.”

The Centre’s head, Dr Joan Lutchman, told a radio programme on Monday morning that several tremors have been recorded since.

“These events are shallow. We had an additional 12 earthquakes over the weekend. Overnight, through Saturday and into Sunday morning, I imagine there were even fewer, which is what you expect when you have a subsiding sequence,” she said.

Dr Latchman warned the region that a “big one is coming and it is better to be prepared”.

Several residents on St. Kitts reported an earthquake being felt on the island on Friday night.

The earthquakes were reported felt in the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, United States Virgin Islands, Caribbean Netherlands, Saint Barthélemy, Antigua and Barbuda, and Anguilla.

(Source: SKN Pulse, Caribbean 360)

A preliminary epicentral plot of the 24 events, for which there were locations at the time the Seismic Research Centre issued its statement about the earthquake burst.

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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Nostalgic Vincy Christmas Serenade in NY

United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn brought the house down with “Ah Want Ah Piece Ah Pork Fo Me Christmas” and “Christmas, Christmas Ah Wish You a Merry, Merry Christmas”.

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

Evangelist Shirley Browne renders “O Holy Night”.

VINCENTIANS AND OTHER CARIBBEAN nationals in Brooklyn reminisced about Christmas in their homelands, as the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCGB) brought much nostalgia with its annual Christmas Serenade.

The event was held at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, a change of venue from the usual Temple Ministries, Brownsville section of Brooklyn where several UVCGB members worship.

UVCGB members and members of the community participated in Thanksgiving Saturday’s event by rendering wistful Christmas songs, reflecting on Christmas preparations at home and

Consul General Howie Prince (right) teams up with Winston “Mr. Positive” DeFreitas. dramatizing Christmas themes, among other things.

“If you want to remember Christmas, you have to come to country (the country side),” said St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General to the United States, Howie Prince, before singing “Silver Bells” with UVCGB president Dr. Roxie Irish and president of the Brooklyn-based St.

Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Sherrill-Ann MasonHaywood.

Prince later sang Kenny Rogers’ “Greatest Gift of All,” then teamed up with Winston “Mr. Positive” DeFreitas in singing “O Holy Night.”

“Anything you need to have, come to country,” added Prince, who hails from the “country” village of Lowmans Windward in the South Central Windward constituency in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “However, all over the world, it’s the same thing. Whether you like parang, Christmas is Christmas.”

Author Caren DeFreitas, Winston’s wife, who served as Mistress of Ceremonies, reminded patrons of Christmas celebrations of yesteryear.

“Christmas is that special day, with the linoleum and the painting,” she said. “Who could remember the cocoa tea and the cinnamon stick and the bay leaf (spice)? Whenever you hear of a Vincy Christmas celebration, find yourself there.”

Michele Douglas

captivated the audience, evoking loud applause, in reciting the “12 Days of Christmas” Vincy-style, which she composed with other patrons at her table — Deonne Crichton-Bailey (president of the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Nurses Association of New York, Inc.); Crichton-Bailey’s cousin Hazel Crichton, and Kesta Charles.

All, except Charles, hail from the Central Leeward town of Layou in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Charles is originally from the nearby Central Leeward town of Barrouallie.

The group’s Vincy-style “12 Days of Christmas” focuses on local products — golden apples, fried jack fish, tri-tri cakes, Julie mangoes, black fish crips, tamarind balls, sugar cakes, coconut fudge, farine, sunset rum and doucana (a pastry with sweet potato as the main ingredient).

The refrain after each item is: “And a roast breadfruit in a paper bag.”

A “Caribbean Choir” — directed by Ingrid “Monique” Neverson, a former netballer and member of the Brooklynbased group, VincyCares, Inc. — sang “Silent Night.”

Sezzie Goodluck sang “O Come All Ye Faithful,” and evangelist Shirley Browne belched out “That’s What Christmas Means to Me” and “O Holy Night.”

Three members of Trinity Methodist Church, on Eastern Parkway, near Utica Avenue in Brooklyn, re-enacted “We Three Kings”; Donna Ash sang “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” and “Raindrops and Roses;” Zita Adams bellowed Jim Reeves’ “Old Christmas Card”; and Neverson sang the melodious “One

Christmas Eve.” The UVCGB band played “Silver Bells,” among other Caribbean Christmas melodies, and UVCGB members rendered a much-spirited “Joy to the World,” bringing the house down with a rapturous “Ah Want Ah Piece Ah Pork Fo Me Christmas” and “Christmas, Christmas, We Wish You a Merry, Merry Christmas.”

In reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas, Dr. Irish said it is based on “the fact that Christ came for us.”

“For United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn, find someone to give blessings to,” she urged. “Be kind, be helpful, be a servant. If you don’t do something else this Christmas, give to someone.”

Prince echoed those sentiments: “In the vein of the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn, give something back.”

Donna Ash rocks with “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree”.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 , 2018. 7.

Co-operation

Tradewinds for SVG TRADEWINDS, the major United States Southern Command sponsored annual exercise conducted in cooperation with Caribbean Basin partner nations, will be conducted in SVG from June 14 – 20, next year.

SVG will be host to Phase Two, with Phase 1 being staged in the Dominican Republic.

Some 350 military, police and civilian personnel from Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Colombia, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as military personnel from the United States, Canada, France, Mexico, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, will converge on SVG for the exercise.

The Regional Security System (RSS), Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and CARICOM will also be involved.

The objectives of the exercise include: to test,

improve and enhance the region’s readiness and response mechanisms to natural disasters such as a hurricane, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and to address issues such as terrorism, organized crime, human trafficking and drug trafficking.

It is designed to conduct joint, combined and interagency training which focuses on increasing regional cooperation for complex multinational security operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

During a press conference on Friday 7th at the Cabinet Room in the Financial Complex, United States Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Linda S. Taglialatela said that over the years, Tradewinds has brought together regional security and disaster management professionals to test the capabilities in a training and exercise environment.

She said that through participation in the exercise, the United

States and its Caribbean neighbours have been strengthening their resilience and responsiveness to regional threats and solidify their partnership, so that “we can effectively prevent and respond to threats with collective security.”

Taglialatela said the work that South Command does will have lasting impact. She pointed to the 2017 hurricane season where the Tradewinds exercise helped to prepare the Eastern Caribbean nations to work together in responding to hurricanes Harvey, Erma and Marie by providing disaster relief and restoring security to the impacted islands.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Frankie Joseph said that during the Tradewinds next year, operation personnel will be testing five scenarios including the eruption of La Soufriere, dealing with an overturned pickup truck that was transporting rescuers during the eruption, dealing with an active live shooter at the Argyle International Airport, an incident involving a ferry

Tradewinds is not about marijuana

PRIME MINISTER news; don’t listen to Ralph Gonsalves is that at all”. dispelling rumors that The prime Minister a United States reminded the sponsored exercise gathering that the that is scheduled to 2014 Tradewinds take place in SVG in exercise took place June 2019, is to deal here. with eradicating “Even when we pass marijuana. the Medical Marijuana Tradewinds is a Bill, drug trafficking Chairman of the Joint will still be an offence, Chiefs-directed, U.S. and cultivating ganja Southern Commandoutside of the framesponsored annual work of the medicinal Prime Minister Dr. Ralph exercise, conducted in Gonsalves cleared the air of cannabis bill will still cooperation with be illegal. And we any ‘marijuana interest’ in Caribbean Basin have to look at the the Tradewinds exercise. partner nations. The trafficking in small exercise dates back to the mid-1980s. arms and ammunition,” said SVG will host Phase 2 of the exercise Gonsalves . from June 14th to 20th 2019.

Deputy Commissioner of Police “This is not about anybody going in Frankie Joseph reinforced the PM’s the hills to spray marijuana or cut declaration that Tradewinds was not down any marijuana tree,” said Prime about marijuana eradication.

Minister Ralph Gonsalves.

“We received information already He said that he was responding to that our brothers and sisters are reports that he has brought wondering whether or not Tradewinds Americans here to eradicate will be coming here to go to the marijuana growers. But the mountains to eradicate marijuana. It Tradewinds exercise is not about that, is not about drug eradication,” Joseph he assured, adding “That is fake declared. (KH)

incident at sea, and a collapsed building in Georgetown.

Joseph said that they are hoping the Tradewinds operations will improve SVG and partnering nations coordination between land forces and maritime forces, and enhance and expand capability in maritime disaster mitigation responses, among other objectives.

Daniel Bellon, Major General from the United States Marine Corps and Director of Policy Strategy and Plans of the US Southern Command, said that Tradewinds has been in existence for 35 years, and the exercise is a chance for “all of us to come together to practise to run scenarios that we believe will manifest themselves as real threats”.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, in his remarks, was quick to dispel rumor that the Tradewinds exercise

Daniel Bellon, Major General from the United States Marine Corps. involved marijuana eradication. (See separate story.)

American forces are expected to conduct major renovation at the Old Montrose Police Station to accommodate

Linda S. Taglialatela United States Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean at last Friday’s press conference. the participation personnel, while the British government will assist in two or three community projects.

(KH)

V

8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial Two things of interest THERE IS NEVER a dull moment in SVG. Last week, police swooped down on a house in the Diamond area and discovered a cache of guns, ammunition and other crime later material. Kudos to our law officers — their intelligence network must have just kicked in. Let’s hope it doesn’t fall asleep again.

But before the proverbial paint on that canvas could dry, the police were in action again, hastening with ‘improved ease’ to the scene of this country’s 34th homicide. Sheldon Bynoe lay dead in a street in Diamond, another victim of gun-related crime.

Ironic or simply laughable?

In fact, there is nothing funny about the crime wave here, which has released a veil of fear over law-abiding citizens who remain the majority of our population, but with a majority of that majority having no strings to pull for assistance; citizens whose taxes seem hardly to make a dent, in accordance with national policy it seems, in supporting strategic crime prevention and crime fighting measures.

That is why those who sit in authority in their protected chambers and mansions, and who speak of “the citizenry having nothing to fear.. the killing is confined to the criminals”, they must have hardened hearts and consciences of stone; for they feel not for the fact that one gun- shot from that perceived ongoing violent tussle among the criminal elements, regardless of how near to or distant from a citizen, is enough to disturb the peace, tranquility of mind and body, sense of safety and security of that citizen. Lawabiding citizens are entitled to a safe and secured environment.

It is only those who, knowing that they are ‘protected’, would feel a sense of safety in the situation as obtains in this country at this juncture in its history.

And while we are at it, citizens have been asking (of this newspaper) why the police did not employ the same phonetracking measures in their investigation into the death of Shania Johnson (found dead in Akers on Nov. 04), that they employed in their swift and commendable response to the incident involving the wife of the Minister of Agriculture.

There should never be two levels of response to crime — one for the chosen and another for the others. For example, the countless unsolved or deliberately unattended burglaries stack up on the side of the others. Is there a plausible explanation for this?

And talking about not having a dull moment in SVG, last Sunday’s Convention of the Unity Labour Party threw up at least one open-ended decision.

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was returned as the party’s political leader, in the face of his earlier public insinuations that there could well be a change at that level.

Citizens of this country must not take Dr. Gonsalves reelection as a cast-in-stone indication that he will lead the party at the next general election (2020).

The party had been set in transition mode some time ago, and there is still every likelihood that there could be a change at the top leadership level before the next general election.

Rest assured that the Unity Labour Party will continue to ‘feel out the sentiment on the ground’, especially since there are strong ‘vibes’ that Dr. Gonsalves would prefer to vacate the position at the next round.

When they feel the time is right and the signals from within and without the party are clear, they will make a defined statement regarding the political leader.

Dr. Gonsalves has been too far into insinuating a change, for him to make an about turn on the issue. To risk going into another election — win or lose - then make a decision with respect to leadership, would be a blot on an otherwise carefully crafted and executed modus operandi of the Unity Labour Party.

John Da Silva aka Sonny Otway (Pt2) THEN FOLLOWED the 1953 Cork Cup Tournament at Victoria Park, won by St. Vincent, which had perhaps fielded her strongest team ever, namely Ardon Antrobus, Eldon Bramble, Ardon Daisley, Cayley Bonadie, Alfie Roberts, Ian Neverson, Frankie Thomas, Caspar Quammie, Sylvester Noel, Frank Mason, John Da Silva. As is said in Holy Writ, the last shall be first. Last man Da Silva was first not only in the bowling averages, but the batting as well, owing to his frequent “Not outs” at No 11, a feat which Bill Johnson performed for the great Australian team shortly after. Another feature of this match was the generosity of Sonny: he allowed himself to be stripped clean of every piece of cricket gear given to him as prizes, including about 4 bats, 6 balls and a cap.

Again, Da Silva covered himself in glory in the follow up Windward Islands match against Guyana in St Lucia 1953. But the Da Silva sparkle was dimmed by the death of my father, Papa John, in SVG, while I was listening to cricket in St. Lucia on the radio.

There followed the Cork Cup Tournament in Dominica 1954, which SVG won handsomely, featuring Da Silva again leading the pack of four pacers that pointed the way of the West Indies to follow. Our pacers were F.O Mason, Lance Pierre, Frank Thomas and last but by no means least, Da Silva with his deadly penetration, with Manning Jackson to spare.

Later we took on the MCC led by Hutton in Grenada. Da Silva for the umpteenth time performed his momentous role.

In 1955, Windwards were hosts in SVG to Trinidad’s Sunbridge that sported West Indies players active or prospective such as Wilfred Ferguson, Leo John, George Alexander and Syl Oliver. That team experienced Sonny at his most destructive best. Spectators carry to their graves the memory of Ferguson padding up to a ball pitched wide of the off-stump, crashing into his stumps, with his bat held helplessly in the air.

In that second innings, Da Silva had returned the impossible figures of 6 for 6, to snatch victory for his side from the jaws of defeat.

It was afterwards the fans learned that the celebrant was hailing his marriage to my sister Ena that morning before the game. It was sweet victory at Victoria Park. Even Poor Fellar must have promoted Da Silva from “sinner to saint”.

In his relation, Da Silva as a member of the Combined Islands made a brave attempt to confirm his status by repeating his performance against the Trinidadians on their own soil. He cleaned up the might of Trinidad in a devastating first Innings in which he had

clean-bowled skipper Jeff Stollmeyer and others. But the use of the roller on the capricious wicket proved his undoing.

Against the Australians led by Ian Johnson in 1955, it is fair to say that Da Silva beat most of the batsmen, while Farrel “Bam” Charles of St Lucia reaped the wickets.

And as it turned out, Da Silva had closed his innings altogether, and soon packed his bag for England where he was soon joined by his wife, Ena and baby-daughter Beverly.

Sonny has responded to several pressures which assailed him in combination by migration. But in his new life, he failed to take advantage of his past. The initial burden of settling in his new environment might have been considerably lightened, had he delivered to Frank Worrell a letter of introduction, courtesy his good friend Frank Thomas, who skippered Sonny in many teams! So, the Da Silvas settled down to their version of the struggle “Life in London”.

From SVG, poor eyesight, retired at 80 years old, I can comfortably and confidently claim that Sonny was among the most authentic persons I have ever met —understanding, humble and generous to a fault. When I stayed at his home as a young teenager enjoying school holidays, he paid my friends and my way every night to Owen Lewis cinema. School boys and others acquired every item given to him as prices for his cricket exploits.

I recall the Georgetown of his day: Schoolboys the Cuffys, Liverpools, including Vannie Alexander who is still around, Ken Boyea, Pee Wee Glen and in particular the Mt Bentick Cricket team which brought honour to Georgetown. The inspired leadership of Charles Ballantyne, the unbelievable all-round performances of Garvey Bailey, the towering sixes of Johnny Spring, the magical bowling of the man of the moment.

My roving thoughts drift also to Clifton “Harvey” Antrobus, for years easily Sonny’s best friend in SVG - either he has returned and is at death-door - and Clarke who also lives between SVG and England for medical reasons.

I note that a touching piece of Sonny’s passing was in THE VINCENTIAN on behalf of Ian by Metrocint, which was founded by Eggie Richards who also became owner of THE VINCENTIAN. Eggie at the time of Da Silva’s Georgetown, was a cane-truck driver/owner who allowed my school partner Bob Sutton a side-stare on the cane fields.

It should also be noted that Caspar Quammie played on the SVG 1953 team, thus making him the only player alive to play with Da Silva.

To the trinity of John Da Silva, Sonny Otway and Fooka, we say a fond Au Revoir.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 9.

Letters

A short take on the Indian experience……….

ARE WE INTOLERANT as a people here in SVG? Most people will tell you no, but the experience, especially of minorities, would seem to say so.

Our focus now is on serious race class issues here, which concerns Indians, gays, fairskinned people, Carib Indians and the Caucasian (white) minorities.

The history of slavery and colonial rule, finds an underdiscussed, neglected facet, as such, of our citizens of Indian

descent, indentured servants installed from India.

A friend of mine years ago put me on to a visit and interview with a newly placed Indian Ambassador. The story was carried in one publication only, THE VINCENTIAN newspaper.

The Indian citizen is often invisible, in our music, culture, and even current affairs aspects.

However, the derogatory slur reserved for Indians is a well-used facet of daily

intolerance. The average Vincentian citizen is OK with this. It doesn’t commute with them that the ‘C’ word is just as burdensome to the recipient as the ‘N’ word to Blacks.

Ironically, social exclusion and other delimits find that very few Indians are involved in the popular drug and gangster lifestyle, and the Indian sector seems not to have embraced all the negatives which other groups have accepted in terms of the

worst in global trends, dominated by dictatorship worldwide.

The multi-cultural image of children of all races playing in the sandbox, does not extend to the adults here apparently.

My friend, a wealthy Indian citizen, was the first to point out the pressures, and browbeating that occur in his experience (especially in business) on a day to day scale. This was news to me!

Since then, the pen has

observed respected members of the higher echelon of class in SVG degenerate into animals, when attitude to Vincentian Indians arises: a platitude of stereotypes which goes against the informed intellect of almost all our people.

Next installment Gays in the millennium. Are we alone in our vitriolic condemnation of such?

‘A Black voice in the press’

Put Sex Education back in schools Christmas Carol FROM WHAT I have been able to ascertain, sex education, or what some call comprehensive sexuality education, appears nowhere in our school curriculum.

This is a far cry from the 1970s and even 80s when a concerted effort was made to expose our students, pre and post adolescence, to the dos and don’ts of sex and their sexuality.

I gather from speaking with persons who know, that it is a wellresearched fact that comprehensive sexuality education creates healthy and responsible sexual and reproductive behaviour among young people. It can help to equip our young people

—knowledge and the skills so they can better understand the risks associated with sex. It will also teach them their responsibilities to themselves in this regard.

Given what we are observing, reading about and even seeing in graphic display, our young people, our student age young people especially, are in need of much guidance. Mind you, I am aware that we are up against much more serious challenges than what existed in the 1970s and 80s. But this should not prevent us from making an effort to guide our young people accordingly.

I am convinced that

the school is an ideal setting to educate our young people about sex, before they become sexually active. This has got to be a better idea than leaving our young people to learn the negatives about sex the hard way, and this could well mean opening them to abuse by older folk.

And we must also admit that our young people are becoming sexually active at younger ages.

I want to suggest that the Ministry of Education and the Teachers Union approach the St. Vincent Planned Parenthood Association (SVPPA), with a view of having that Association’s input

into designing a Sex Education for our schools.

It would be important, if we choose to advance this idea, that there be training for teachers — training I am certain the SVGPPA can offer.

And last I be misunderstood, I am in no way trying to take away responsibility from the parents who are the first ones we will expect to offer guidance to their children about developing positive attitudes to sex and their sexuality.

We must act now before things get worse.

John, Belair

What do you do with your bonuses?

MANY EMPLOYEES receive bonuses from companies with whom they work, some for very long periods. Bonuses are usually paid because a company makes a profit on sales for a year, and they (management) choose to give their employees some of it.

Mind you, a company/employer is not obligated to give this bonus, since you have already received your monthly or weekly salary. However, in many, if not most, cases, management of companies/employers are generous enough to give the bonuses.

So, you got a bonus?

What have you done with that bonus? Did you save some in the bank?

Some people make bad

decisions, and spend it unwisely, like on things that they do not need.

When difficult times come around, you now have no money saved, because you’ve wasted your earnings with prodigal living. Your friends are now nowhere to be found; you end up in a bad state. However, if you call upon the Lord, He will answer.

There was a king in the Bible, recorded as a good man. He had done right in God’s sight, loved his nation and its people, and he had notable achievements, including eradicating idolatrous practices, enacting religious and political reforms, and opened the doors of the House of the Lord that was closed. He repaired

the House of God. But not so today.

Many spiritual leaders in our nation have left the House of God to ruins, asking the government to give money for repairs. The government can help, but from my standpoint, it is not their responsibility to do so.

That responsibility belongs to the members of the Church.

Now, this great king, after doing right, fell sick, and God sent a messenger instructing him to put his house in order, as he is going to die. Having heard this, the king went and took all the bonuses he had saved and paid for his life. However, when the king recovered, he found himself in problems with

Sing Along for institutions PLEASE ALLOW me space in your newspaper to invite members of the public who celebrate Christmas, to join a group in a ‘Christmas Carol Sing Along’.

With the kind permission of the Administrator of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, a ‘Sing Along’ will take place on Tuesday 18th December 2018 from 3 p.m. — 4:30 p.m., in the garden between the Children’s Ward and the Male Medical Ward.

Also, with the kind permission of the Administrator of the Georgetown General Hospital, a ‘Carol Sing Along’ would take place at the hospital on Friday 21st December 2018 from 3 p.m.

— 4:30 p.m.

And again with the kind permission of the Senior Nurse Manager of the Mental Health Centre at Glen, a ‘Carol Sing Along’ would take place on Thursday 20th December 2018 from 3 p.m — 4:30 p.m.

Carol sheets will be provided for use at each session/occasion.

Pastor Frank Matthews Apostolic Faith Mission

Smoke is smoke

God, for his heart was lifted with pride.

God has given us the bonus, Jesus Christ, who died for our sins. In Christ’s death, He also left us another bonus the Holy Spirit, who will guide us into all truth.

What have you done with these bonuses? Only you can answer this question.

Bishop Ezekiel Creese Faith Word Ministries

NON-SMOKING medical use of marijuana is OK. But the supporters really want to legalize smoking marijuana because that is where the money is to be made. In either case, we will be paying a high health bill because the smoking will continue.

And by the way, why is anyone talking about legalizing smoking marijuana when we are trying to stop the smoking of regular cigarettes and cigars?

In some bigger countries, smokers can’t smoke within eight feet of the outside doors of most buildings, and for sure, it is banned in the inside of most buildings, including here in St. Vincent.

Will we need new laws as to where marijuana smokers can smoke? Will I get sick from their second-hand smoke?

Tom J

V

10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The 23rd Convention of the ULP

The NDP and marijuana

Introduction

ON MONDAY 10th and Tuesday 11th December, 2018, the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill and the Cannabis Cultivation Amnesty Bill were debated and passed in parliament. With the passage of the bills, the foundation is now set for the establishment of the Medicinal Cannabis Industry. The New Democratic Party (NDP) is fully in tune with the developments that are taking place worldwide, and is cognizant of the history of the region and at home with regard to the usage of marijuana as medicine and for recreation.

During the debate, members of the NDP have outlined the party’s position as it relates to the development of the cannabis industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The following is the NDP’s position on Marijuana: * The NDP supports the initiative of cannabis/marijuana for medical purposes, and publicly called for this long before the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill. * We will focus primarily on traditional farmers and locals who must benefit from the industry. * Appropriate land tenure and licensing strategies must be developed to assist small landless traditional farmers who currently squat. * For the first three (3) years of the regulated industry, licences should be given to plots of one acre or less. * Decriminalize possession of up to two (2) ounces of marijuana. * Permit possession of two (2) ounces or less for personal use, with appropriate restrictions for use in public places and for use by minors. * Completely expunge all records of convictions for persons convicted of possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana (including persons currently serving prison sentences.) * Consider making reparations for persons who paid fines for possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana. * Permit use of the herb for religious purposes without state harassment or discrimination * Permit an individual household to grow up to 5 marijuana trees. * Encourage meaningful partnerships between traditional farmers and local and foreign investors. * Encourage marijuana related industries in a regulated environment. * Work towards legalization of marijuana eventually. * A Marijuana Farmers Association must be promoted.

Meanwhile, the advancement in science and technology has exposed many myths and falsehoods surrounding marijuana. The discussion on the way forward is hindered by varying views rooted in baseless and unfounded statements regarding marijuana and its usage.

Every day, the world is rapidly opening up to the understanding that marijuana, a herb, it is not a narcotic but a plant with many benefits for mankind.

In addition, members raised their concerns of the bills: Some concerns of the Bills: * The NDP concludes that the bills debated in parliament did very little to change the status of marijuana growers. * Most marijuana farmers are landless since they squatted on crown

A CONVENTION is one of those specialised meetings that political parties engage in, sometimes annually, or every two years or so. It’s the highest decision-making mechanism of a political party, and is often reserved for key decisions, like the election of top party officials, and the adoption of critical party decisions and strategies.

A similar situation applies to the Unity Labour Party, as the members and officers of the ULP gathered at the Bethel High School last Sunday, for its 23rd political convention. ULP conventions attract large numbers, and this one was no exception, as can be seen on Facebook. The event attracted over two thousand persons, but what is surprising is the amount of young people who were in attendance.

The presence of so many young people augurs well for the future of the ULP, and its fate in the next general elections. It is also a good factor for the continuation of the philosophy of the ULP administration, for “people centered development”.

Finally, it is an acknowledgement that the young people in the country are in tune with the developmental narrative of the ULP, hence their support. This is bad news for the opposition New Democratic Party, as the young people continue to ignore their message.

reality.

Instead, the discussion focused on the international airport and its continued importance to the socioeconomic development of the State.

The discussion focused on the education revolution, the debate on the medicinal cannabis industry, the new investments in the tourism sector, and the strength of the party for the upcoming elections, in two years time.

The Political Leader’s address

The Political Leader of the ULP, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, spoke to his membership in an address lasting just about two hours, none of it boring, all of it interesting and relevant and evoking loud responses from the audience. He outlined some of the achievements of the ULP administration and commented on the success of the people centered strategy, that has brought a high level of development to the country.

He poured scorn on the NDP’s socalled visit to the People’s Republic of China, and asked several pertinent questions, particularly in relation to the purpose of the trip, its cost, and who financed it. He spent some time on the robust parliamentary agenda of Solidarity the ULP, outlining several Bills which There was a great deal of solidarity will be placed on the Order Paper for the attention of the members of the and camaraderie at the ULP House of Assembly. convention, as members and Naturally, when it came to the supporters conversed about this and closed business session, and the that, all related to the future election of the leaders of the party, development of the party. All this is there was a consensus that Dr. the start of the process of preparing Gonsalves should remain as the the party for five in a row. leader of the ULP, and so he was As an event, a convention defines the preparation of any political party elected unopposed. So too was the deputy leader, Sir Louis Straker, the for further work in any society, party’s chairman Edwin Snagg, and whether it’s a general election or the process of refreshing and re-vitalizing the deputy chairman, Rochelle Forde Duncan. That put to rest all the the base of the party. Observers will speculation about leadership, watch conventions closely, since this although the issue of transition is still will give them clues as to what’s on the table for discussion by the happening within that organization.

ULP. Observers will look to see how the members of the party respond to the Conclusion message from the political leader.

They will look at the size of the A hugely successful convention does audience, the composition of the audience, to see the number of young not automatically lead to success at a general election, although it is an people attending, the number of new indication of the standing of your members who are present, as well as political party. From here on, the ULP any defections or attractions. and its strategists will begin looking They will test the harmony of the at different aspects of the campaign, event, to determine if the party is including public relations, fund together in unity and love. They will raising, house to house visits and so try to spot any disaffection, any forth. There is more work to be done conflicts, and any diversion from the central theme of the party. To them, a in relation to the youth vote. The ULP candidates will continue to reach out convention is like a man or woman conducting their annual health check to these voters so that they could better understand the work of the up. Some of these observers will be ULP. those who have not yet determined The ULP administration has a whom they will support in the next very impressive record in terms of general election, and so a successful what it has accomplished in the convention will help them make that seventeen years in office. It is this decision. record that has served the party well Overall, there was a spirit of love at the polls in 2001, 2005, 2010, and and solidarity as ULP members and 2015, and will serve the party well in supporters bonded together at the 23rd convention. NDP spies could pick 2020.

On the other hand, the opposition up nothing but positive vibes, and this must be a worrying sign for the NDP. NDP lurches from one bungle to the There was no indication that the ULP next, making mistakes left, right, and center, and doing very little or was disintegrating, that the nothing to engage in any debate on leadership was losing its focus, and matters related to national that the messages were getting old development. and dreary and out of touch with

lands. * The empowerment of traditional and local farmers is not promoted in the bills. * The Cannabis cultivation amnesty bill is flawed and exposes traditional farmers to financial loss. * No financial support is provided for traditional farmers who struggled to create the industry.

The NDP is of the opinion that St. Vincent and the Grenadines should take a serious look at what is taking place worldwide, and come to the realization that the prohibition of marijuana usage is quickly breaking down. Our efforts should be geared towards preparing our fragile economy to take full advantage of the benefits of marijuana in a manner that will give all stakeholders involved the advantages that this industry has to offer.

Over the years, Vincentian ganja farmers have done fairly well using their expertise, and gained market for their brand of marijuana. During those years, many lives have been lost: through transporting the product on the high seas, guarding their bases during harvesting of the crop, and from police raids such as Vincy Pac. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a niche in recreational marijuana, and every effort should be made to expand now that countries are legalizing and decriminalizing for recreational usage.

When Canada legalized marijuana a few weeks ago, their entire stock of recreational marijuana was sold out within hours. This is a great opportunity for our embassies and trade missions abroad to start the process of engagement with businesses and look for opportunities.

With the change in attitude for most people around the world, and available scientific data to support the long held view that marijuana is a relatively safer product when compared to cigarettes and alcohol; it is insulting to sensible people why the continued prohibitionist view should be given any relevance in today’s discussion on the way forward regarding marijuana.

Therefore, the party takes on board the view of the CARICOM Commission on Marijuana which states, “A too limited approach to law reform, including one that focuses on medical marijuana, would be counterproductive and inimical to the goals of Caribbean developments as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and endorsed by CARICOM.” The NDP also supports the view of the report of the Commission that declares, “All criminal penalties from marijuana laws should be removed.”

The world is beginning to recognize and accept marijuana as a herb with medicinal values. The stigma that has been wrongfully attached to it for over 100 years is eroding rapidly. The benefits are being highlighted and embraced worldwide.

While the NDP supported the bills, we believe that they do not go far enough to maximize the benefits that can be derived from marijuana.

V Taking calculated risks

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 11.

Views

“I think risk is a necessary part of business philosophy. I view risk as an ability to be where no one has been before. I view risk to be an issue of thinking big, something we did not do previously. We did everything in small must have the insight to anticipate increments so we always lagged the world as it will be, and be prudent behind”.” – Ratan Tata, Past enough to prepare today for what is Chairman of the Tata Group likely to be the landscape tomorrow.

This is as true in the realm of science IT IS PROBABLY TRUE to say that we, as it is in the arts. Being totally Caribbean citizens, have been prepared is a prerequisite for programmed to avoid taking risks. Our exceptional performance. Bobby foreparents would have encouraged us to “play it safe”. Many, in their wisdom, Unser reminds us of the significance of such preparation when he says, would have encouraged their wards to “Success is where preparation and get a good education. As an extension opportunity meet.” Preparation is to that thought, they would have critical. We have a responsibility and encouraged the junior citizens to seek a privilege of preparing the next employment with the government. In generation to succeed in an ever their view, this was the safest way to increasing competitive landscape. gain and retain employment. However, The Ratan Tata quotation that was we now know that times and used to introduce this essay probably circumstances have changed. Our youth needs to be revisited with the view of must change their mindset and encouraging each of us to embrace the understand that there is no “safe haven for employment”. It would be foolish to challenge of thinking big. Ratan Tata expect that the government will be able is the former chairman of Tata Sons.

That Indian company grew to become to employ all school leavers. This one of India’s greatest business generation must understand and success stories. It has evolved to appreciate that they will need to become the Tata Group of Companies programme themselves to take calculated risks; to venture out to start with investments in the automobile industry, the high end hotel sector, their own businesses. And even then, television services, there is no guarantee for success. telecommunications, and other related Based on the foregoing, our sectors. The Tata Group has over 100 education administrators and operating companies spread across six facilitators must be prepared to continents. Their revenues for 2018 influence the school curriculum to are in the vicinity of US$100.4 billion. reflect these changing times. This is Their assets in 2017 totalled US$126 an imperative as we consider that billion. This background information education, in its truest sense, is aids in magnifying the wealth of the intended to prepare students for life information captured in his quotation. and for living. Risk is a necessary part of that experience. However, the We are encouraged to venture forth in pursuit of making those illusive analytical skills needed to engage in wise choices then become invaluable. dreams come through.

Jesus Pazos, former CEO of Neal & It is not surprising to discover that Massy (now rebranded Massy), some governments have already reminds us that “We cannot discover embarked on programmes to prepare distanced lands by remaining on their respective citizens for this “new world”. For example, we are told that shore.” We must be prepared to take China and India have “created a new the calculated risk in venturing forth in pursuit of new possibilities; beyond breed of aggressive businessmen”.

The 2009 publication entitled “Getting new horizons. We need to encourage China and India Right” (ISBN 978-0- the mindset to not abandon new possibilities too readily. We can 470-28424-7) by Anil Gupta and contemplate designing and creating Haiyan Wang describes how new products and/or new ways of successive Indian and Chinese governments have designed education doing things — constantly focused on programmes to position their citizens bettering our best efforts. New lands await us. However, we must be to excel in the service sector as well prepared to see from behind our eyes; as in the manufacturing sector. The mindset game is in play. The winners visualizing new possibilities and calculating the risks necessary as we will be those nations where the governments and people are prepared pursue these.

We are conscious that not all of our to be proactive; to “think outside the pursuits will result in success. Not all box”; to innovate; to take calculated of our business ventures will generate risks. the desired revenues or profits. Not It is probably important to clearly all of our experiments will result in indicate that this writer is not inviting persons to be reckless (when new inventions. However, we will never know which ones will until we encouraged to take calculated risk). try. As the old saying goes, “Nothing The word “calculated” is significant. ventured; nothing gained!” Many As a people, we must be prepared to analyse the options that are available benefits can be derived when we are to us. We must discipline ourselves to bold and wise enough to take calculated risk. weigh the options that are available and, even when risks are involved, be prepared to move in the direction of the best possible choices. There is wisdom in such an approach. We

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

SVG legalizes medical marijuana ‘Why don’t we start labeling medical ginger, medical pumpkin and medical sour sop? All of these have proven health benefits. What we now have is state sanctioned economic marijuana.

Rasta always knew marijuana, like so many other herbs, is for the healing of the nation.’ Ras Carl Williams ‘On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.’ Revelation 22:2 LAST TUESDAY, the parliament passed into law the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill and the Cannabis Cultivation (Amnesty) Bill. St Vincent joins Antigua, Belize, Cayman Islands, and Jamaica in this regard.

During the debate before passages, opposition parliamentarians accused the government of being timid, not going far enough. At least two of them, opposition senator Kay Bacchus Baptiste and North Leeward representative Roland Mathews, called for complete legalization. The opposition maintained that recreational use is where SVG has benefitted from marijuana and that’s the niche we should try to exploit. They maintained that our traditional growers will receive little or no benefit from medicinal cannabis.

The government side was steadfast in its defense of the approach to medicinal cannabis. It cited the existence of a punitive international anti dangerous drugs regime for which SVG could be sanctioned if it was to go to full legalization. Saboto, Camillo and PM Gonsalves cited the 3 United Nations narcotic treaties that ominously hang over our heads. Minister Caesar even pointed to the report of the UN narcotics board where Jamaica was mentioned.

Government parliamentarians also mentioned that our banking arrangements, particularly with corresponding US banks, could be disrupted because the Federal US government does not believe in legalization. The Federal Government, however, has turned a blind eye to the fact that 32 states in the US have legalized cannabis for either medicinal or recreational use. Neither Camillo, Saboto nor the prime minister mentioned that President Trump disclosed last week that he may reconsider the federal ban on Cannabis use.

Government and opposition parliamentarians alike pointed to the destruction of the rain forest with the grave dangers to wild life, especially the parrot, as well as the quantity and quality of our water supply. The government is proposing to lease up to 5-acre plots to traditional growers who agree to leave the mountainous interior.

Along with the amnesty for those currently involved with marijuana cultivation, the government proposes to pass next week, a law which will allow citizens to have up to 56 grams of marijuana with no risk of police harassment or criminal sanctions. Plans are reportedly afoot to wipe clear the record of persons convicted for possessing small quantities of marijuana.

Listeners heard all that might go wrong if we were to try to exploit our niche with recreational marijuana. No one highlighted the sanctions that have befallen those who have already done precisely what the government said it could not do. What sanctions have the US suffered for the breach of the narcotics rules by its western states. For decades people from across the world went to Amsterdam and freely bought and smoked marijuana. Uruguay has some of the most liberal drug laws that

go all the way back to the 1930s with no known sanctions. Portugal decriminalized all drugs in 2001 and its results are celebrated as best practice. We are yet to hear of the sanctions.

Do we believe that the countries that have decriminalized or legalized drugs are getting away because they are developed, European or white, while blacks and brown may be put into our place? We are unaware of any sanctions suffered by those Caribbean countries that went before us.

Whatever the reason for this rush to cash in, more and more countries are moving towards legalization. As Dr John Collins from the London School of Economics said yesterday, “Around the world, attitudes towards the use of cannabis are shifting fast.” The Mexican and Luxembourg governments have signaled their intention to legalize recreational marijuana. New Zealand and Barbados may consider referenda on the issue.

In 2012, Uruguay announced it would be the first country in the world to legalize recreational cannabis use. Later the same year, voters in Washington State and Colorado became the first in the US to support legalization of the drug for non-medical use.

Under President Barack Obama, the US government stepped back from enforcing federal laws and effectively gave states a green light to explore alternatives. Eight more states and Washington DC have since supported the legalization of recreational cannabis, and penalties are softening elsewhere.

The use of the drug for medical reasons is allowed in 33 of the 50 American states. Last October, Canada legalized the sale, possession and recreational use of marijuana.

There are bound to be legal challenges to the ban on recreational or meditational use of marijuana. The Supreme Courts of Mexico ruled that an absolute ban on recreational use is unconstitutional. The South African Supreme Court legalized the use of cannabis by adults in private places.

Lesotho became the first African country to legalize the cultivation of cannabis. Meanwhile, legislators in Lebanon are considering the legalization of cannabis production for medical purposes so as to help the economy. In the UK, doctors can now prescribe cannabis products.

Part of the reason for the softening of attitudes after decades of demonization, prosecution and stigma, is because of a new awakening around the tremendous medical benefits that can be derived from this herb. The propaganda which pervades the popular mind of marijuana as dangerous if not deadly, is rapidly evaporating. Clearly, the world is now recognizing that the benefits from marijuana use far outweigh the risks. It is time the domestic and international rules catch up.

Big businesses are jumping in to corner the marijuana business. Business monopolies like Bayer and Monsanto are buying up companies with marijuana interest. A few weeks ago, Altria, which owns tobacco brands Slims and Marlboro paid US$1.86 billion for a 40 percent share in a Canadian marijuana company. These companies are clearly angling for when cannabis goes recreational.

Hopefully, the people will have the last say as to whether this week’s marijuana bills amount to a useful compromise or an exercise that’s too little too late.

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

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Medicinal cannabis – Yet another brainless idea from the ULP THE MEDICINAL Cannabis Industry Bill, the Cannabis Cultivation (Amnesty) Bill and the Permitted Use of Cannabis for Religious Purpose Bill were presented to the SVG House of Assembly on 10 December 2018.

Hundreds of our

youths have been thrown in jail for the use of the HERB, however, on December 10, 2018, there was a U-turn by the ULP regime.

One has to ask though: Is this really the priority for SVG? Is this industry going to rescue

our weak economy from the abyss in which it sits and transform our nation into a wealthy country?

Is this industry going to create billions in revenue?

No. No. No. It is yet another brainless idea from the ULP regime.

SVGHRA PRESS RELEASE

Human Rights Day DECEMBER 10th is commemorated the world over as International Human Rights Day; a day when Human Rights activists plan, design and implement strategic activities/programmes in celebration of this memorable day.

It was on December 10th, 1948 that the United Nations General Assembly adopted and declared the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; the first declaration about the rights and freedoms of individuals the world over and the most widely translated UN treaty.

In St Vincent and the Grenadines, the Human Rights Association continues to echo the need for equal justice and Human Rights dignity as enshrined in its Mission and Vision, and that is why this year

and 2019, its focus is on education for the abolition of the death penalty in collaboration with Marion House and the Network of NGO’.

Although as citizens we are more aware of our Human Rights and fundamental freedoms, we MUST recognize that with these rights come responsibilities and obligations. But in order to ensure that ALL Vincentians are educated about their basic rights, the issue MUST be taught in schools as a means of instilling in our Youths the desire and need to respect the inherent dignity and worth of each and every Vincentian.

Recently, we have witnessed a high incidence of crime and violence involving Youths as perpetrators and Victims, with many

tragic results. While our country ratified the UN convention on the rights of the Child since 1993, we are still concerned about the manner in which our children/Youths are treated when they come into conflict with the law- no functioning and relevant facility exist; a wholly untenable situation.

As Vincentians commemorate the 70th anniversary of the materialization of Universal Human Rights, referred to as International Human Rights Day, let us resolve to promote the rights of our citizens, thereby ensuring a VIOLENCE FREE society.

The core problem in SVG is not permission to use or grow the HERB, but the destruction of our country by the superrich, white migrants in Mustique and Canouan and Taiwan who escape with not paying their fair share of tax.

The priority for our country is not the HERB. We will not move forward in SVG until we abolish the Mustique Act No 48 OF 2002 and rewrite the SVG Fish ACT 2001, to make sure the super-rich, White Migrants in Mustique and Canouan and the dirty dog Taiwan pay tax.

This is the priority for SVG. This would rescue our weak economy from the abyss and transform our nation into a wealthy country. This would create billions of dollars in revenue.

Just like the announcement of a cocoa industry, this announcement about medicinal cannabis is blind vision from the ULP regime. Where is the cost/benefit analysis to show that this industry would be a success for SVG? Where are the figures to show at what unit cost we would need to produce to be competitive, and how much must we export to sustain any market

share?

As with the modern day global banana industry, SVG could never be competitive within the global medicinal cannabis industry. Other places are so far ahead of SVG; SVG is entering the market too late and cannot supply in the quantities of larger suppliers.

The topography of our country — steep, rugged hills - stops SVG from being competitive in this market. Big producers have large plantations on flat land that are highly mechanised.

Mechanisation makes their production highly efficient and their unit cost very low.

A SVG medicinal cannabis industry could never be mechanised and so the unit cost will always be too high to be competitive in the global market. SVG is not moving forward and will not move forward if we focus on a medicinal cannabis industry.

High-quality education is the foundation of development. This is

what we need in SVG to become a wealthy country. We must give our children a worldclass education from preschool to university, so that they become highlyskilled and knowledgeable and can do highly skilled work and create innovations.

We can fund a highquality, world-class education system by taxing the super-rich, in Mustique and Canouan and taxing Taiwan. This will bring billions of dollars in revenue to the SVG Treasury.

The core weakness of our county is not the permission to use or grow the HERB, but the gross incompetence of the ULP regime. They have no idea how to move the country forward and create mass employment and revenue.

Since 2001, we have had 17 years of brainless ideas from the ULP regime; medicinal cannabis is their latest one. Are they high?

SVG Green Party

Inaugural American Airlines non-stop service AMERICAN AIRLINES will make its inaugural non-stop flight from the Miami International Airport to the Argyle International Airport on Saturday, December 15th, 2018.

The year-round AA 1427 service will operate on an Airbus A319 every Saturday, leaving the Miami International Airport at 11:00 a.m. and arriving at the Argyle International Airport at 3:40 p.m.; the return leg of the flight leaves St. Vincent at 4:45 p.m. and arrives in Miami at 7:50 p.m.

When the service was announced in May 2018, the airline stated that its customers “will have new options to escape the cold with more seasonal and year-round flights.” Chief Executive Officer of the SVG Tourism Authority Mr. Glen

Beache expressed his elation with the announcement from American Airlines, saying “To have direct service out of Miami is a game changer for the country. This service will make it so much easier for visitors including the diaspora to vacation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”. He further stated that “Miami being one of the main hubs for connections in the USA, will be an excellent gateway for visitors from Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and even the United Kingdom to access the beauty that is St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

The American Airlines scheduled non-stop service from Miami gives visitors and Vincentians another option to travel directly to and from the

destination. Currently, Caribbean Airlines operates a weekly nonstop Wednesday service from JFK International, USA; and Air Canada Rouge a weekly non-stop Thursday service from Pearson International, Canada. From Sunday, December 16th, 2018 Air Canada Rouge will add a second weekly non-top flight to the destination; the Sunday flight will operate until April 2019.

Visitor arrivals to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the period January to September 2018 reflect an overall increase of 4.8% in stay-over visitor arrivals, with a 12.6% increase from the USA and a 12.7 % increase from Canada.

(Press Release SVG Tourism Authority)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 , 2018. 13.

News

„Big move‰, says ganja grower

medicinal purposes, as opposed to the illicit trade which has become much VETERAN MARIJUANA CULTIVATOR Alvin riskier, resulting in many families ‘Buffer’ Collins has described this losing their loved ones. country’s move towards the “The medicinal cannabis move is a establishment of a Medicinal Cannabis game changer. It will create Industry as a ‘big move’ and a “game employment, it will minimize changer.” deforestation, criminalization and Collins, who said he has been stigmatization, and it will develop the growing marijuana illegally for the health care system.” the Greiggs man past 15 years, was among more than said.

100 persons, mainly marijuana He also explained that the illegal growers, who had gathered just trade was not as lucrative as it was in outside the House of Assembly yard on the 1970s, 80s and early 90s because it Monday, to show their support for the has become riskier, and security is a Medicinal Cannabis Industry Bill lot tighter. which was passed in Parliament, on Collins pointed out that many Tuesday. marijuana farmers face serious The men wore green t-shirts and economic problems, and he views this described themselves as growers for “big mov”’ as an opportunity for them medicinal marijuana. to receive a consistent source of income Collins, the General Secretary of the within a legal framework.

Cannabis Revival Committee (CRC) Collins, a member of the Select and President of the Greiggs Committee tasked with advising on Rastafarian Progressive Society, told the three cannabis-related Bills before THE VINCENTIAN there are the House, refuted the argument in tremendous benefits to be derived from some circles that the small man will be growing marijuana legally for sidelined, pointing out that there

by HAYDN HUGGINS

would be provisions in the law to ensure that the traditional farmers benefit.

“Our presence on the Select Committee is to ensure that the traditional farmers are treated fairly, but we will continue the fight for decriminalization across the board,” he asserted.

THE VINCENTIAN also caught up with head of the CRC - Junior ‘Spirit’ Cottle, who endorsed the sentiments expressed by Collins, but underscored, “We will continue to struggle for decriminalization and legalization, that’s our ultimate goal, but before man could think about smoking for pleasure, we must feed our children, clothe them and provide shelter for them.”

Cottle, who has been involved in the illegal trade for decades said, “We are tired having to break the law, taking the risk on the high seas, sometime losing our lives.”

He added that with many countries in the region have placed the issue of medicinal marijuana and

Alvin ‘Buffer’ Collins made out a case for marijuana cultivators to go the way of the medicinal cannabis industry. decriminalization on their agenda and declared “The illegal farmers stand to lose their markets.”

The other Bill which was passed on Tuesday is the Cannabis Cultivation (Amnesty) Bill.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 15.

14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Top T o op p CAPE CAP APE Performers Pe erformerrs

Just getting started “WE JUSTT GETTING “WE ARE JUS played an integral part in mar STARTED on making our mark S TARTED A ma k us being afforded the in the Caribbean and the w orld world opportunity to celebrate at large.” this moment in time.”

This was the projection She thanked the voiced by Aadilah Ali, the Almighty, saying, “While Most Outstanding Candidate it is a common practice to (MOC) in the 2018 Caribbean ask of Him our desires, Advanced Proficiency Exam Exam-wants and needs, it is ination (CAPE), as she poignant that we also give delivered the Vote of Thanks thanks when those same at the 2018 Caribbean desires, wants and needs Examination Council (CXC) are fulfilled, and especial especial-2018 Awards Ceremony, held ly when even more than on December 8 at the Meth Meth-what we asked for is given Kingsodist Church Hall, Kingsto us.” town.

And CXC came in for That sentiment she praise for “their ongoing shared as she gave thanks to initiatives and their Aadilah Ali, Most Outstanding the parents of the 2018 interest in bettering awardees, “for all the sacri sacri-education in the Caribbe Caribbe-- Candidate (MVC) in the 2018 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency fices you made, all the an” which enabled them Examination (CAPE). worries you had, and all the “to go out onto interna interna-praying you did so that we tional platforms and excel could shine.” tremendously, not only as think.”

She continued with, “I students but in the near Teachers and parents came hope we have made you future as working adults …” in for commendations. extremely proud,” and with She expressed gratitude Teachers for “lessons in eyes on the future ‘warned’, for the ceremony “that algebra and the digestive “If you think you are proud, system, and also those life recognises our hard work and just wait. We are just getting prepalessons about compassion, efforts endured in our prepastarted on making our mark ambition and determination, rations for examinations, all in the Caribbean and the especially during those times the sacrifices, late nights, world at large.” when we felt like giving up.” and the doubts.”

Aadilah’s parents were on Ali thanked her Caribbean On behalf of her colleague hand to share in her moment mates “for being courageous, awardees, the top candidate of ‘sunshine’. for challenging the society alluded to having learned Aadilah, a former student and status quo, going beyond that even though miles of the of Queen’s College, Guyana, what is expected of you and Caribbean Sea and Atlantic achieved Grade 1 in Applied truly raising the bar for Ocean separate us, “we are Mathematics Units 1 and 2, education in the Caribbean.” similar in more ways than we Biology Units I And the Vincentian Caribbeand 2, Caribbeexcludpeople were not excludan Studies, ed. Aadilah described Chemistry them as “some of the ComUnit 2, Commost beautiful and munication warmest people,” and Studies, expressed appreciation Environmental for the Vincentian Science Units 1 regretexperience, but regretInteand 2, Inteted having to leave grated Mathe Mathe-while just getting matics, Physics accustomed to “your Units 1 and 2, mountains, the lovely Pure Mathe Mathe-islands of Bequia and matics Units 1 Young Island, winding and 2, and steep roads, lovely Grade 11 in ferry, your quite inter inter-Chemistry esting traffic in rush Unit 1. hour, and your black For her, the sand beaches.” evening was The top CAPE student “one for the concluded, “Through books,” recog recog-this feat, we have nition of the inspired others to follow “crème de la in our footsteps to crème,” and perform even better forthcomwas forthcomthan we did in years to ing in her come, and to ultimately acknowledgacknowledgdevelop the Caribbean ment that the region, making it a Aadilah Ali gets to hold the plaque on which her awardees, “stood name will be engraved. Presentation is made by place of innovation, on the shoulders Vice West Indies: opportunity and Vice Chancellor of the University of the West of giants who promise.” (WKA) Professor Sir Hilary Beckles.

Sundar up p to B i Business

Rajiv Museshwer

Rajiv cops CAPE Mathematics award Rajiv Museshwer of Guyana’s Queens College, is this year’s CAPE Most Outstanding Mathematics candidate.

His returns of Grade 1 in 12 Units propelled him to that recognition. His subjects: Applied Mathematics Units 1 and 2, Biology Units 1 and 2, Caribbean Studies, Chemistry Units 1 and 2, Communication Studies, Integrated Mathe Mathe-matics, Physics Units 1 and 2, and Pure Mathematics Units 1 and 2.

Seline Sundar of the Lakshmi Girls Hindu College joined three others who maintained Trinidad and Tobago as a top performing state in CXC examinations.

She was this year’s Outstand-CAPE Most Outstand ing Business Studies student, achieving Grade 1 in Accounting Caribbe-Units 1 and 2, Caribbe Communica-an Studies, Communica tion Studies, Economics Units 1 and 2, and Management of Business Units 1 and 2.

Toneyy in touch with H ii Humanities Mikhaili Toney attended the Presentation College San Fernando, and that institution has reasons to be excited.

Toney is this year’s CAPE Most Outstanding student in Humanities.

His Grade 1 in Caribbean Studies, Entrepreneurship Units 1 and 2, Environmental Studies Units 1 and 2, Geogra Geogra--

phy Units 1 and 2, and SociolSociology Units 1 and 2 hoisted him to the award.

Naparima p Girl into i L Languages NaringesHer name is Kirese Naringesingh, and she represented the Naparima Girls College, Trinidad and Tobago.

Her Grade 1 in Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies, French Units 1 and 2, Literatures in English 1 and 2, and Spanish Units 1 and 2, translated into her being this year CAPE Most Outstanding Candidate in Modern Languages.

oney To Mikhailii Toney

Kirese Naringesingh Christian menses-Chow Chung

Jade keen on Environmental Science With Grade 1 in Biology Units 1 and 2, Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies, Environmental Science Units 1 and 2, Geography 1 and 2, there was no stopping Jade Lakhan from taking this year’s CAPE Environmental Science award.

She attended the St. Joseph Convent, Port of Spain.

The Principal of the St. AcadeJoseph Academy, Antigua and Barbuda, beamed with pride, and promised to be at the helm next year again. His school stood tall among the performers in Keondre Herbert this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), when it provided the top overall performer in the person of Keondre Herbert. He scalped Grade 1 in 20 subjects.

Those are: Biology, Caribbean History, Chemistry, Economics, English A, English B, French, Information Technology, Inte Inte-grated Science, Mathematics, Office Administration, Physics, Principles of Accounting, Principles of Business, Social Studies, Electronic Document Preparation and Management, Physical Education and Sport, Human and Social Biology, Techni Techni-cal Drawing, and Industrial Technology.

Seline Sundar

Jade Lakhan

Daniel in the Maths den

Daniel Baldeo-Thorne put Queen’s College, Guyana on the awards list.

He is this year’s CSEC Most Outstanding Candidate in Scienc Scienc-es.

Daniel achieved Grade 1 in Additional Mathematics, Agricul Agricul-tural Science (Double Award), Biology, Chemistry, English A, English B, Electronic Document Preparation and Management, French, Geography, Human and Social Biology, Integrated Science, Mathematics, and Physics, and Grade 11 in French.

put her institution ISA Islamic School in Guyana on this year’s CSEC Awards list. Salma is this year’s CSEC Most Outstanding Humanities student.

Her Grade 1s were recorded for: Biology, Caribbean History, Chemis Chemis-try, English A, English B, Geography, Information Technology, Physics, Social studies, Religious Education, Spanish, Electronic Document Prepa Prepa-ration and Management, Human and Social Biology, Additional Mathemat Mathemat-- Daniel Baldeo-Thorne ics, Food Nutrition and Health, and Family Resource Management.

Rebekah h has Business on her Rebeka mind

Jamaicans show creativit creativityy

Rebekah Persaud showed the versatility of Guyanese students when she took the CSEC Business Education Award.

As a student of St. Rose’s High School student, Rebekah achieved passes in 11 subjects, as follows: Grade 1 in E conomics, Information Economics, Technology, En glish A, English B, MatheMatheEnglish matics, Office Administration, Principles of Business, Electronic Document Prepara Prepara-tion and Management, and Additional Mathematics, and Grade 11 in Social Studies, and Grade 111 in Spanish.

Salma takes Humanities title With Grade 1 in 18 subjects, Salma Majeed

Daria James

Christian and Daria – both Masters

Top T o op CSEC C Performers Performerrs Antigu Antigua’s gua’s Keondre K Keond dre d Herber Herbertt tops the list

Top T o CCSL CCSLC C op Performers Performer errs

The Visual Arts segment of CSEC appears to have cemented a strong foundation in the Jamaican society.

Okeen Wallace from St. Georges’ College Jamaica was adjudged this year’s Most Outstanding Candidate in Visual Arts, 3-Dimensional Work.

Wallace’s portrayal entitled ‘The Forest’ is taken from the Painting and Mixed Media Option.

His compatriot Danielle Gennard from Wolmer’s Girls School captured 2-Dimenionthe award in Visual Arts 2-DimenionRebekah Persaud sal.

Her creation dubbed: ‘Deal with the devil’ is taken from the Sculptor and Ceramics Option.

Outstanding Candidate The other Jamaican on the award list in Short Story Writing, was Kae-Shane Virgo from Montego Bay with a story called High School. Kae-Shanae was the Most ‘Betrayal’.

Chris-GRENADA PRESENTATION Brothers College’s Chris tian menses-Chow Chung will be toast of his nation for Certifi-the next year. He achieved Master in Caribbean Certifi cate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) English and Mathematics, and Grade 1 in Caribbean Certificate of Caribbe-Secondary Level Competence (CSEC) Grade 1 in Caribbe an Secondary Education (CSEC) Information Technology, Prepara-Principles of Business, and Electronic Document Prepara tion and management.

Christian was the Most Outstanding Male CCSLC performer.

Daria James, from Washington Archibald High School, St. Kitts/Nevis was the Most Outstanding Female performer.

Mathe-Daria achieved Master in CCSLC English and Mathe matics, and Grade 1 in CSEC Information Technology, Prepara-Principles of Business, and Electronic Document Prepara tion and Management.

Salma Majeed

Danielle Gennard

Okeen W allace Wallace

Kae-Shane V irgo Virgo

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16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Miss Claus Pageant set for Christmas Day

Z’annie Charles Miss Rodney’s Trucking

Sueshe Haywood Miss Lil G Investments

Keandra Joseph Miss J’ouvert in January

Zarina Woods Miss Caesar’s Real Estate

Greiggs, is sponsored by Rodney’s Trucking Services; while Haywood, who resides in Lowmans Windward, has Lil G Investments as her sponsor.

Joseph, a Lauders resident, wears the sash of J’Ouvert in January.

Woods, another resident of Greiggs, is sponsored by Caesar’s Real Estate; and Ince, who is a resident of Stephanique Ince Mount Grenan, has Miss Jarplum Jarplum Enterprise as her Enterprise sponsor.

The five contestants THE SECOND EDITION OF will make appearances in the Miss Claus Pageant is Christmas Wear, Sports set for the Greiggs Hard Wear and Evening Wear, Court on the night of and would also perform a December 25, with a talent and would be tested starting time set 7pm.

Five contestants would in the highly anticipated vie for the title in the Sea Interview segment.

Organisers say that Operation Nar Fren Dem apart from the pageant, Sports Club venture. the night’s activities The five contestants would be filled by other are Z’annie Charles, high class entertainment Sueshe Haywood, acts.

Keandra Joseph, Zarina K- tonya Peters was Woods and Stephanique crowned the inaugural Ince.

Charles, who hails from Miss Claus, when the first show was staged in 2017.

SOL brings Christmas Cheer to WPP THE WORLD PEDIATRIC PROJECT (WPP) received an early Christmas gift of $13,585.00 from fuel provider, SOL EC Ltd. Steve Francis, General Manager of SOL said his company was pleased with the work being done by the WPP in assisting children in St.Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean with surgical and other medical assistance, and was happy to assist in keeping with SOL’s social investment progamme.

Ms. Lauren Mc Intosh, Executive Director, WPP, expressed her gratitude to SOL for its significant contribution, which she said, will assist WPP in its operations.

Yolande Barbour, SOL’s Accountant, handed over a second donation of $886.70 to Ms. Mc Intosh. This was a donation from SOL’s staff who have been involved in “Fitness Walks” and are the proceeds from the sale of t-shirts.

The WPP, since its commencement of operations in St.Vincent and the Grenadines in 2002, as at August 31, 2018 provided services to the value of US$27.16M: 177 children received medical care in the USA (US$15.88M) and there were 131 visiting surgical/diagnostic teams who treated children at a value of US$11.28M. (Submitted)

Lauren Mc Intosh of WPP receiving cheques from Steve Francis and Yolande Barbour of SOL EC Ltd.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 , 2018. 17.

Politics

Not aware of any appointment KAY BACCHUS–BAPTISTE, legal counsel for the petitioners in the Election Petitions filed by two New Democratic Party candidates in the 2015 general elections, said that it is not yet known if Justice Nicola Byer has been officially appointed to replace Justice Esco Henry.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, she said that she received notification from the Court Administrator indicating that she was to attend a meeting on Monday, December 17 at 8:45 a.m.

She said that up to that point, she was not aware of a new appointment.

“When we get there, we will know,” she said.

Last week, the petitioners were dealt a further delay after Justice Henry, who had been presiding over the petitions hearing in the local High Court, recused herself after she learned that other matters were set down for her attention on the dates (Dec 7 -10) already assigned for a continuation of the Petitions’ hearing.

She recused herself on the grounds of not wanting to appear bias.

Justice Henry has vacated those dates, prior to her recusal, after

Justice Esco Henry recused herself from presiding over the Election Petitions hearing so as to avoid any appearance of bias. a Notice of Motion was filed by the respondents, due to a medical condition by one of the members of the legal team, Grahame Bollers.

And with the news of Justice Henry’s recusal, Bacchus-Baptiste noted that this therefore meant that there could be a further delay as it related to the hearing of the petitions.

Speaking at a press briefing on December 5, she said that a status hearing was scheduled for January 24, 2019, and the case was expected to resume on February 11, but the appointment of a new judge meant that that

Attorney Kay BacchusBaptiste on Wednesday, said that she had had no official indication that a replacement judge had been appointed in the Election petitions matter. individual would have to get himself/herself familiarized with all the issues as it related to the case, which raised questions about readiness for the dates set.

The Election Petitions have been filed in the names of NDP candidates Benjamin Exeter and Lauron Baptiste, who are contesting the results of the 2015 general elections in the Central Leeward and North Windward constituencies respectively, both having been declared in favour of Unity Labour Party candidates Sir Louis Straker and Montgomery Daniel respectively. (DD)

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18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Politics

Another packed hall at the Campden Park Secondary School for another ULP Convention. (Photo Credit: ULP)

Creating a path for a fifth term

much money or land, and despite those challenges, we had to provide for ourselves.

In addition to the challenges, St Vincent and the Grenadines is a vulnerable state, Gonsalves said, adding that government has had to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on repairing infrastructure following the passage of a natural disaster.

Despite those challenges, he warned against the falsehoods: “We going sell passports and citizenship and everything going to be hunky-dory.”

Gonsalves said that the time had Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Political Leader come for them to acknowledge not only the limitations, but the possibilities. of the ULP, emphasized to the party “We have been grappling with the faithful that it was important to have challenges and achieving monumental a clear development narrative going things, and that was because of the forward. (Photo Credit: ULP) possibilities,” he said.

“Among those is our ability to come to THE TIME HAD COME to talk about making terms with our environment and make a a path for a fifth term in office. living.”

Political Leader of the Unity Labour He mentioned some of the Party (ULP) and Prime Minister Dr achievements, including the education Ralph Gonsalves made the comment as revolution and the improvement in he addressed the political party’s 23 agriculture and fisheries industry.

Convention last Sunday at the Campden “But of all those things, you have to Park Secondary School. have a compelling narrative for the way “We have made immense progress, by forward. A compelling developmental the nature of our policies and nature of narrative,” Gonsalves said. the persons we have in government,” he And at the heart of this narrative is said. the quest to build a modern post-colonial And the country has achieved a lot, civilization. he continued, but there is still more to This was being done through the be done. implementation of what was contained Since forming government, they have in the 2015 manifesto, Gonsalves cleaned up the mess and have explained. accomplished a lot, he said.

“And we have five years, they can “But we must acknowledge that there make all kind of noise, they want to are people in our country, including have early elections; now I hear they many supporters who are still hurting, worried about that.” and it is our duty, it is our obligation to He went on saying that the opposition make sure that we have policies that are had nothing of what he mentioned, and further in place and to implement what most of all they lacked proper we have done before better so that we leadership. can reduce to the point of extinction the “And we must not be afraid to talk hurt by some of our people,” he said. about leadership; leadership is very But first, he reminded supporters important. You need leadership with that the country was small (with) not ideas and energy,” he said. (DD)

V Off-field support for female cricketers

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 19.

People

FOUR FEMALE cricketers who are pursuing the

Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) have

received assistance from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association (SVGCA) Inc. Those on the receiving end of the assistance are Isha Williams, Edelyn Turtin, Samantha Cain and Vinisha King, all who compete in the various competitions staged by the SVGCA, and are attending the Georgetown Technical Institute.

Williams is engaged in furniture building, Turtin is pursuing a

Edelyn Turtin (left) receives part of her tool kit from President of the SVGCA Inc. – Dr Kishore Shallow.

James, First Caribbean Wellness Ambassador LINDON JAMES has been together during the last 14 voted the first Caribbean days of competition. I must Wellness Ambassador, say it wasn’t easy but it was following an online poll worth it. This is not a win conducted during the past for me but a win for SVG. I few weekends across the am truly honored to be region. given this opportunity to James, who started out represent the People of SVG just helping individuals and the Caribbean as your with their fitness Wellness Ambassador 2018. requirements before he Our work is not over, as I established his full-fledged look forward to working fitness business/programme with each and every one of he called ‘Be Fit’, in you to ensure that we make accepting the honour, a difference in people’s acknowledged that he could lives.” not have been so rewarded Lindon James And in a spirit of without the help of many fitness instructor goodwill, James reached out others. to his fellow nominees, extraordinaire.

“I would like to thank saying, “To my fellow the Most High God for his continued nominees, congratulations for making blessings and guidance throughout it to the finals, and thank you to my my life. To my Vincentian people at closest competitor for making this an home and in the diaspora, you have interesting one! We are all winners! no idea what your love and support Continue pushing for Health & meant to me. This is a very proud Wellness not only in your Country moment for each and every one of us, but the Caribbean as well. This is as we united stronger than ever to about unity and togetherness. It has ensure that we brought the CTO been proved that when we work Wellness Ambassador Title to Sweet together, we can achieve great things SVG,” James commented upon as a people and as a nation. Thank receiving confirmation of his You, Thank You, Thank You.” designation.

He continued, “We should all be I.B.B.ALLEN proud of ourselves as we journeyed

Four recipients of tools/implements donations from the SVGCA Inc., from left – Samantha Cain, Isha Williams, Edelyn Turtin, Vinisha King. course in Electrical works, and King and Cain one in plumbing.

Last Friday, at a brief ceremony held at the SVCA Inc. Office at Arnos Vale, the four were presented with implements and tools appropriate to their fields of study.

In making the presentation, President of the SVGCA Inc. Dr Kishore Shallow stated that there was no hesitation by his organization to assist the four female cricketers.

He said that the donation forms part of the SVGCA Inc.’s holistic approach to the development of its cricketing stock.

Noting that such donations fall into the SVGCA Inc’s Strategic Plan, Shallow

commented, “You can’t just send out cricketers on the field, without the mental capacity.”

Once the four show commitment and a steady attitude in their pursuits, Shallow promised additional

support.

The four began their training at the Institute in September, and would be sent on attachments next May. Their programme spans one year.

V

20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Second time around Dear George,

MY BOYFRIEND and I came to an agreement that we will go back to our former lovers, only to have him change his tune in the middle of the song.

This all started when I told him I still have feelings for my Ex and would like to go back to him. I was shocked when he told me that he too had been thinking of going back to his old girlfriend but did not know how to tell me. It was there and then we made the agreement to dissolve our relationship. It was not too long after that my boyfriend informed me that he wanted me back, because he now realised I’m the one for him. Of course, that was after things did not go as planned with his Ex. She was still two-timing him, which was why he left her in the first place.

I told him I was happy where I was and he should leave me be. He has not stop bothering me since. I don’t want

to be back with him, but he doesn’t seem to understand that.

Out and About Dear Out and About, Your situation is quite unique, and it’s good that things are working out for you. It is very important that you are clear on what you need from the relationship that you are in, and know when to get out if things are not working out.

In your case, the decision to end the relationship was unanimous, and it’s not your fault your boyfriend’s decision to leave backfired on him. He has to live with the consequences of his decision. Do your best to capitalize on this once in a blue moon second chance.

George

Done with hum, period! me before a woman with whom he has said time I MET MY BOYFRIEND and time again he is not involved? walking hand in hand He has shamed me, with the girl he has and for that he will pay. always denied being I don’t want him, and with. I confronted him, she wouldn’t have him demanded three times that he tell me what she for much longer.

Bastard! was to him and who I was to him. My boyfriend could not even Better woman own me as his woman in Dear Better woman, front of this girl.

Apparently, he had been It might be useful for telling her that we were you to remember that finished.

How could I be with a even Jesus was denied man who could not own by those who knew him

Dear George,

well. For your boyfriend to be incapable of readily owning you and proudly promoting the relationship, it proves that he does not deserve you. You can find solace in the fact that you are now free to find someone who can love you and who will be delighted to showcase you to the world.

Walk away and leave him to his decision. Who knows....he may have found his match!

George

He has to come clean Dear George, Dear Tired, PLEASE TELL me if I’m doing the right thing here. My husband is a cheat and a liar, and I have taken the stance of not sleeping with him until I have concrete evidence that he is in the clear. He keeps telling me that I should not withhold my body from him, but I am holding my ground. .

I have caught him numerous times with women who, it is rumoured, might be HIV positive.

I love my life and will choose it over him any day. Now I need to know what am I doing wrong.

Tired of it

Knowing what you know and seeing what you have seen, one cannot blame you for not giving up your body.

You need to get yourself tested immediately and stand your ground until

your husband turns over a new leaf, and makes a renewed commitment to his marriage to you.

He should feel obligated to present a clean bill of health as a starting point to consider refreshing the marriage.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Problems with in‐laws may cause friction in your personal relationship. Sudden changes will occur through communications with friends or in‐laws.

You may be likely to have difficulties with females.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Love and romance are evident. Use some diplomacy to get your point across delicately. Be careful not to sign your time or your cash away. Don't allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Lovers will be less than accommodating, and decisions regarding personal direction a necessity. You need to get out and have some fun to reduce tension. Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Your charm will mesmerize members of the opposite sex this week. Use discrimination and play hard to get. You should be able to get a lot done. Talk to someone you trust if you need advice about broaching the subject.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Take the time to sort out your personal papers and double‐check your financial investments. You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. Your mate, however, may not be too pleased with you. Get down to business.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Question your mate if you must. You may have been too agreeable to someone who just wanted to use you. You may find out that someone is trying to undermine you. Problems with your mate will develop if you don't let them have their way.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) You can expect changes in your living

arrangements. However, you must not neglect your family. Your time, not your cash, will do a lot more for your relationship. You can certainly gain popularity; however, don't do it by paying for everyone else.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Communication will be your strong point and you should be able to persuade others to see things your way. You can get ahead if you present your ideas to superiors. Don't be taken advantage of by any fast‐talking salesperson trying to part you from your cash.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Don't take offense at comments made by coworkers. If you can't get ahead in the company you're with, perhaps it's time to move on. Don't hesitate to sign up for creative courses or physical fitness programs. Try not to get upset or angry without having all the facts.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Spend time with youngsters this week.

Take care of your own responsibilities before you help others. Don't be too quick to judge your position or surroundings at work. They will not be in the right frame of mind to put up with tactless comments.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Be sure to take advantage of the opportunities that exist. Don't let your jealous imagination play games with you.

Give everyone in the house a physical chore that will help burn off some of the excess energy.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Don't reveal information that is personal or confidential. Children may be less than honest with you. Disruptions may set you back, but you're strong, and in the end the choices you make will be favorable.

You might have some problems balancing your books.

ACROSS 4. To endure 8. Dance of Cuban origin 11. Remain 13. Entirely 14. Middle Eastern salad 15. Peruse 17. Fish eggs 18. Sandy tract 19. Dense element 21. Find the sum of 22. Dash 24. Engage in espionage 27. Yellow cheese coated with red wax 29. Ocean 31. Curve 33. Former name of Thailand 36. Supplements 36. Low in pitch 38. Diabolically cruel 40. Covered with hair 42. Haul 43. Rich soil 45. Former name of Sri Lanka 49. Female sheep 50. Fuss 51. Model to be imitated 52. In bed DOWN 1. Magic spells 2. Flattened at the poles 3. Insect 4. Shady recess 5. Small child

6. Greased 7. Snicker 9. On sheltered side 10. Organ of hearing 11. Chum 12. Lair 16. Broad valley 20. Youths 21. Monkey 23. Naïve person 25. Golf mounds 26. Extent of space 28. Female servant 29. Snow runner 30. Powdery residue

31. Stay attached 32. Overlay with wood 34. Dealer in textiles 35. Nervously irritable

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 21.

37. Introduction 39. Not 41. Yelp 44. Honey 46. Laboratory 47. Lyric poem 48. Incline head

V

22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports Extra

SVGFF fills Second V.P. position WAYNE GRANT has filled the post of Second Vice President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).

Grant, who before last Thursday’s Annual General Meeting, held the post of Committee Member, beat Dwight Roberts and Trevor Huggins, in the three-man race.

Twenty-four affiliates gave Grant the nod, with 18 doing likewise for Roberts and one for Huggins.

Roberts, who has served as a Committee Member for the past seven years, would remain in his position.

Huggins is a former Second Vice- President and General Secretary of the SVGFF. The post of Second Vice President became

vacant following the elevation of Marvin Fraser, who was voted as the SVGFF’s President in August, taking over from banned President - Venold Coombs.

Coombs is serving a two-year ban handed down on him by FIFA’s Ethics Committee, after he was found guilty of violating FIFA’s statutes, relating to the sale of 2014 World Cup tickets.

At last Thursday’s General Meeting which was held at the SVGFF’s Conference Room, also filled the position Committee Member, left vacant by the elevation of Grant.

Replacing Grant as Committee Member was Rosalo Mc Kie, who edged out Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois 15-14, with the other nominee- Dominique

Wayne Grant- Second Vice – President.

Stowe, receiving 12 in the closely contested run off.

The SVGFF’s Executive now reads: Marvin Fraser- President; Otashie Spring — First Vice — President; Wayne Grant- Second VicePresident and Wayde Jackson- Third Vice — President.

Making up the list of Committee Members are Dwight Roberts, Dwight Baptiste, John Hinds, Yosiah Dascent, Otnell Douglas, Rosalo Mc Kie and Dominique Stowe.

Last Thursday’s Annual General Meeting also received the 2017 Executive’s Report as well as the 2017Auditor’s Report.

WINLOTT sponsors W’wards U-15 THE WINDWARD ISLANDS Cricket Board of Control (WICBC) Under 15 Tournament, which got going in St. Lucia on Monday, Dec. 10, has once again attracted the support of Windward Island Lottery (WINLOTT Inc.).

A release on Dec. 06, said that WINLOTT Inc. will provide sponsorship in excess of $150,000, to go towards tournament’s WINLOTT’s Chairman – Murray Bullock (right) and expenses including covering uniforms, travel, Executive Director, Allison Thomas (left), present cheque to Director, WICBC, Dr. Kishore Shallow. accommodation, meals, trophies and prizes. cricketers in the Windward Islands by A brief handover ceremony was held creating this platform for development is on December 4, 2018 at the National incalculable and indeed worthy of the Lotteries Authority headquarters in highest of gratitude.”

Kingstown, St. Vincent, where The 2018 Under 15 Tournament will WINLOTT’s Executive Director, Allison see the four islands playing in a double Thomas presented the cheque to round-robin format, where each team Director, WICBC, Dr. Kishore Shallow.

“We are pleased to be associated with plays the other twice in 50 Over matches. the development of youth cricket in the At the end of the tournament, a Windwards through our partnership Windward Islands Under 15 team will with the WICBC, with whom we have be selected for the April 2018 CWI developed a good working relationship Under 15 tournament. over the years. We have seen the Grenada are the defending success, and are proud of our youth champions. cricketers from these tournaments, WINLOTT Inc support for Windward many of whom have gone on to play for Islands cricket also extends to their senior national, Windwards and sponsorship of Under 19 Tournament, West Indies teams, and urge the public and since 2015, has contributed over in the islands to continue to support them, by playing our Super 6 game,” Ms $940K to both Windward Islands Under 19 and Under 15 tournaments.

Thomas said.

The company also sponsored the In response, Dr. Shallow stated, “The Windward Islands T20 Tournaments ongoing support from WINLOTT Inc. from 2010-2013. (Source: WICBC) goes far beyond their financial input.

What they continue to do for young Compiled by I.B.A.ALLEN

V South takes inaugural BAZF Title SOUTH CAME FROM BEHIND in dramatic fashion last Friday night at the Clive Tannis Playing Field in Bequia, to clinch the inaugural Bequia Football Association Zonal Football Title.

Going into Friday night’s final match against East on 17 points, South was placed in a must win situation. On the other hand, East, on 19, needed Josh Stowe (right) only a draw to earn the accepts the Under-17 coronation. winner’s trophy from In front of a massive General Secretary of the crowd, South’s chances SVGFF- Devron Poyer. were dealt an early blow when Damion Bynoe gave East the lead. Bynoe made good of a defence blunder, slotting home the ball in the 26th minute.

But in the 50th minute, the compliment was returned with toppings, as an East defender turned the ball into his own net, and parity was restored.

This gifted goal provided a spark Zonal Competition top goal scorer- Derek Penniston (left) is in the South’s attack, and they awarded by Mahalia Jackson.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 23.

South- inaugural BFA Zonal Football champions. worked play on the right side, which Jamal Ollivierre finished with some aplomb.

The 3-1 win put South on 20 points, nicking West and East, who were both on 19 points.

South claimed the Most Goals awardee in winner’s trophy and the the Under-17 Division$3000 cash prize. West Marlon Simmons (right), edged out East via a gets his trophy from better goal difference and Shanell Duncan- Pierre. earned $2000 for their second place, with East proceeded to raid East’s getting $ 100 for third. goal area with regularity.

The other three teamsThen came the goal of Central, North East and the match. In the South East, all received 67th minute, Duneroo cash tokens for being part Hanhim swiveled to hit a of the competition. long-range shot which East’s Derek Penniston beat the East goal keeper, was the Leading Goal to make the score-line 2-1 Scorer, with Jomara in South’s favour.

Adams, copping the Best Buoyed by the strong Goal Keeper award. crowd support, South Also distributed were added another goal in the the Most Valuable Player 82nd minute, after a well awards: Aldrick Pompey-

North East; Zeek SimonSouth East; Shane GlynnCentral; Jomara AdamsEast; Derek PennistonWest and Camol BessSouth.

Under-17 Division Complementing the Zonal Competition was an Under- 17 Division.

Trumping the division was Rising Stars, with Future Stars- second.

Combine Stars third and Young Stars fourth.

Taking the Most Goals Award was Rising Stars’ Marlon Simmons and his teammate- Josh Stowethe Best Goalkeeper.

Simmons was also his team’s Most Valuable Player, so too was Courtney Jacobs of Future Stars.

The others receiving similar awards were

Best Goal Keeper in the Zonal CompetitionJomara Adams.

Shamare Quashie — Combine Stars and Joviann Derrick- Young Stars.

It was the first time that a Football competition in Bequia was played under lights, albeit with much improvisation.

Female Schools’ Football Festival scores big A Skills Challenge and a 7 vs 7 competition engaged the over 200 female footballers participants.

Wayne Grant - Head of the Females Committee, was all smiles following last Saturday’s activities.

Speaking at the Closing/Presentation Ceremony, Grant boasted, “I am pleased what I saw today… I am very, very happy.”

The Festival, as he assessed it, had achieved its objectives.

Inaugural Female Schools’ Football “The Festival has stemmed Festival champs- the Troumaca Secondary. from an initiative taken some months ago, to have more Right: Head of the Females Committeefemales in the secondary school Wayne Grant. getting involved in Football,” Grant noted.

THERE WERE NOTHING but part of He added, “We want also to superlatives for the Females activities to show to the stake holders that Committee of the St Vincent mark female football can happen in and the Grenadines, when they December as ‘The month of hosted the inaugural Female Female Football’, involved the 4 the secondary school.”

With an optimistic eye on the Schools’ Football Festival, last secondary institutions which future, Grant expressed the Saturday at the Victoria Park. are involved in the schools’ view that, once the coaches The Festival, which formed Programme.

The Troumaca Ontario and the DR JP Eustace Memorial battling in last Saturday’s final. continue to work with the females in the secondary schools, there can be a National Secondary Schools’ Football Competition within the next two years.

Buoyed by the success of last Saturday’s activities, Grant projected that two similar festivals would be held at the end of the Second and Third Terms of the academic year.

The inaugural festival began with a warm-up session conducted by Lindon James of Be Fit Movement.

Thereafter, each school was afforded two matches, with the top eight advancing to the quarter finals.

Advancing to the semi-finals were the Troumaca Secondary, JP Eustace Memorial, the Georgetown Secondary and the Girls’ High School.

The Troumaca Secondary and the Dr JP Eustace Memorial contested the final, with Troumaca Secondary, coming out winners 2-0. Denel Creese and Samonique Laborde were the goal scorers.

V SchoolsÊ Netball Titles decided 24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

THE OWIA GOVERNMENT, the Sandy Bay Secondary and Barrouallie Secondary, claimed titles, when the Inter- Primary and the Inter- Secondary Schools’ Netball Tournament ended last Tuesday at the Arnos Vale Netball Complex.

On a day of finals, Owia Government homed in the Primary Schools’ title, outscoring former winners, the Buccament Government, 19-11.

For Owia Government, Chelsea Sutherland scored 16 from 20 attempts and Giada Small registered 3 from 3.

Sherita Wilson had 9 from 11 and Kelisha Bowens made 2 of her 6 attempts, for Buccament Primary.

In the Junior Division of the Secondary Schools’ Division, Sandy Bay led in all quarters, 9-7, 18-9, 2415 and 27-22, to win over the Troumaca Ontario Secondary.

Shonile Haynes poured in 19 of 25 and Retanique Baptiste counted 8 of

Barrouallie Secondary School retained the Senior Division Netball Title.

Left: Sandy Bay Secondary Junior Division winners, pose with Deputy Chief Education Officer- Elizabeth Walker.

her 15 tries.

Troumaca’s scoring was led by Denel Creese, 13 of 29 attempts, and Sarrica Hooper, 9 of her 14.

Creese, though, was adjudged Most

Valuable Player of the Final.

And, the Barrouallie Secondary rolled over the Sandy Bay Secondary in dismissive fashion, to retain their title.

The Barrouallie team sped out to an 11-3 lead in the first quarter and 2411 at the half way mark.

A 20-goal gap was opened up at the end of the third quarter, with the scores at 35-15, and Barrouallie Secondary ended the one- sided contest 45-26.

Player of the Final, Chaunte Williams converted 23 of her 32 attempts and Zanique Vincent, 22 from 34, for Barrouallie’s scoring.

Lorencia Bowens had 16 of her 26 tries and Trecia John 10 of her 17 for the vanquished Sandy Bay Secondary.

Taking the third places were Primary Schools’ Fancy winners- Owia Government in Government.

Player of the Junior Final and Top Goal ScorerDenel Creese of the Troumaca Ontario Secondary. the Primary Division, the Bethel High School in the Junior Secondary Division, and the Girls’ High School in the Senior Secondary Division.

Awards Denel Creese of the Troumaca Secondary was the top goal scorer in the Junior Division, registering 51 goals and Zanique Vincent with 67 goals of the Barrouallie Secondary, the top goal scorer in the Senior Division.

Sion Hill netball concludes STAR GIRLS had a 2818 win over Island Blends Success Radio, to clinch the Division Two Knock Out title last Saturday at the Sion

Hill Playing Field Hard Court, as the 2018 Vita Malt Sion Hill Netball Tournament concluded.

In setting aside Island Blends Success Radio, Star Girls

Phoebe Ferdinand gets the E Glenford Prescott award from Earl Bennett.

completed the Division Two double, having already taken the League title.

Among the individual awards presented at the closing ceremony last Saturday. Phoebe Ferdinand of Island Blends Success Radio Two won the Hon. Arnhim Eustace award as the Most Disciplined Player.

Ferdinand also collected the late E. Glenford Prescott award as the Most Disciplined Young Sion Hill Player in the tournament.

Harmony Investment Stars’ Jasmine Frank Top Goal Shooterwas the Top Goal Jasmine Frank

Scorer in the tournament, netting 86 goals of her 103 attempts.

The Most Valuable Player in each of the twelve (12) competing teams was also recognized with a trophy In the Team Awards, Transport and Works won the Division Two double crown champions- Star Girls. awards of Most title. Harmony Division One. Disciplined Team and Investment Stars took All recipients were the Most Improved Division One. All given cash awards.

Team, while Sion Hill recipients were given In this year’s Junior Netball Team cash awards. tournament, four teams collected the Most Lennie Quashie competed in Division Disciplined Team award.

Androids won the One, five in Division Two Sion Hill Junior Division Three Knock and three in the new Netball Team won the Out and ClinchersDivision Three.

Division Three League

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 25.

Sports

Approaches and reproaches

EVEN THOUGH there is a great deal of preparation that must take place before the event, there are all sorts of games going on, during the course of the match. There is also a deliberate psychological warfare that is flowing.

The rest of the world is happy when any West Indies squad is beaten. It serves as revenge for their years of dominance.

The campaign has spilled over to the media where every aspect of the West Indies performance is put under scrutiny, to the point where excuses are offered if the other team fails to complete the debacle.

Imagine the Bangladeshi’s crying over chances offered and credit those to the West Indies’ victory. One should remember that cricket is such that one capitalises on the other’s misfortune.

How often we have seen it unfold in the course of many a spectacle. It is a case of moving on.

The West Indies must be the best losers in the world. For when we collapse, we don’t make an open massacre about it.

No selectors, administrators, politicians, fans, critics can alter the course of one’s performance.

There will be claims of injustice from any or many who feel they have been overlooked or given a raw deal.

Instances of such occurrences are numerous, but that should not be the focus of attention or a reason to despair. People have to assess the situation and give an open account of the matter.

West Indies have to trust themselves and don’t be overwhelmed by injections from whatever quarters.

One thing is the way in which enthusiasts jump on the train of abuse of aspects of our existence to impress those whose mission is the demise of regional cricket.

West Indies Cricket represents a brand. It is still a valuable commodity. There are tendencies of exploiting it.

Players are in that dragnet. When they become marketable on the world stage, they relinquish their patriotism.

The outcome lends to an absence of consistency at the regional level. But that is of no concern to many. For once there are personal rewards, the fortunes of regional cricket is of no consequence.

The World Cup in England next May will be a time of reckoning. The West Indies have to keep that in focus. Perhaps they are prone to surprises.

But spurred on by sceptics, the sense of regionalism is not shared universally.

Perhaps persons might be interested in an individual flair whereby each niche blows his horn.

If Brexit is of any significance, its lessons to the Caribbean are deafening. The European Union came as a follow up to what the Caribbean laid down.

The Federation enjoyed a forced abandonment, and its revival remains a nightmare.

The West Indies Cricket team must be cherished. No one seems to welcome the idea of Caribbean networking.

However, circumstances will force us and we will find out that the Caribbean is a curious entanglement which must be maintained.

Mustique: New SVG Masters Champions MUSTIQUE Company Masters are the new Champions of the SVG Masters T20 Cricket.

They achieved their first hold on the title when they disposed of Police by 34 runs, in the finals played at the Arnos Vale Playing Field last Sunday.

Orlanzo In front of a crowd that included a section Jackson of North East of vociferous took the most supporters, Mustique Company Masters took wickets, 22. struggled in their victory first knock and chase, and at the completion of compiled 149 for 8 in their their 20 overs were 115 for 8. maximum 20 overs. Julian Michael Charles took 3 for 38, Lampkin topscored with 42 not out, Nicholas Baptiste hit 33 and Oneil Thomas 2 for 15 and Roy Baptiste 2 for 23.

Oneil Thomas 26. Renford Jack In a presentation ceremony was Police best bowler with which followed last Sunday’s figures of 4 for 25.

Except for Trevor Bailey with a final, McNeil Morgan of top score of 38, Glamorgan had much to be the law officers boastful about when he was named MVP of the tournament, on the basis of his tally of 327 runs and 10 wickets - including a hat-trick.

Nicholas Baptiste of Mustique Company scored the most runs 366, and Orlanzo Jackson of North East took the most wickers 22. Both were rewarded with a trophy Nicholas each and products from Baptiste of McNeil Morgan of Log Enterprizes.

Mustique Glamorgan was the Also coming in for Company scored MVP of the recognition were : the the most runs, tournament with 327 tournament’s two century 366. runs and 10 wickets.

Mustique Company Masters – Champions of Masters T20 Cricket in SVG. makers - Neil Baptiste 101 not out of RSVG Police Masters, and Cassius Welcome 136 not out for A R & G P’tani Masters; and those who had five-wicket hauls Dave Stapleton 5 for 29 and Theo Wallace 5 for 20 for Stanley Browne’s Stubbs Masters, and Orlanzo Jackson 5 for 22 for North East Masters.

For their victory, Mustique Company took home the Championship Trophy, $1200.00 and products from Log Entreprises.

Runners-up Police walked away with a Trophy, $800.00 plus Log Enterprises products.

Oneil Thomas - the Mustique Company Masters’ Captain was the Player of the Final.

The defending champions were North East Masters.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Police retain NÊLeeward T20 title POLICE ARE once again Champions of T20 Cricket in North Leeward.

They retained the title when they defeated Ajuba by 4 wickets in the finals of the VINLEC- sponsored 2018 edition of the North Leeward T20 Cricket Tournament, played last Sunday at the Cumberland playing field.

Ajuba batted first and posted a disappointing 114 for 8 off the allotted 20 overs. Christroy John missed out on a half century, scoring 46. Roneil Jeffrey with 15 and Kesrick Williams with 13, were the only other Ajuba batsmen to get to double figures. Darius Martin was the pick of the RSVG Police bowlers, bagging 3 wickets for 13 runs off 4 overs.

RSVG Police Force – repeat winners of North Leeward T20 Cricket.

The law men, seemingly in no hurry, took 17.2 overs to reach the victory target 0f 115, for the loss of 6 wickets. Desron Maloney topscored with 39.

Mahy Bynoe contributed 20. Asif Hooper, 2 for 23, was Ajuba’s best bowler.

The finals between Police and Ajuba was set up after the former got the better of Rose Hall Future Legends in a rain affected remaining semi-final, played on Saturday.

Future Legends batted first and were bowled out for 118, Oswald Soleyn getting 36, Marcus Castello 20, and Darius Martin taking 3 for 8 off 4 overs for Police.

Police were 102 for 7 off 16 overs, needing 17 runs off 24 balls to clinch victory, when rain stopped play. They were declared victors on the basis of the average run rate method.

Ajuba runners up

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018. 27.

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ALVIN GLASGOW

ENDORA SAMUEL

Evesham S.D.A. Church Sunday, 9th December, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Barrouallie Seventh-day Adventist Church Sunday, 9th December, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

KEVIN ROBERTO STOWE Better known as (Bogoville)

MRS JANE HANNAH GLASGOW MARTIN

St. George’s Cathedral Saturday, 8th December,2018 Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Sunday, 9th December, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

St. Olive Spiritual Baptist Church Park Hill

ALMAIDA CHARLES CODOUGAN Better known as Maida or Tanty Maida Church of God of Prophecy Victoria Village Sunday, 9th December, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

DUNCAN HAROLD SOLOMON Better known as Ansil Friday, December 7, 2018 Chauncey Methodist Church

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 14, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.50

A.I. REAL ESTATE Ottley Hall 10,204 sq.ft @ $8.50 p.s.f. - $86,734.00 - BB225 Carapan 7,135 sq.ft @ $12.00 p.s.f. - $85,620.00 - BB264 Penniston 24,573 sq.ft @ $13.50 p.s.f. - $331,735.50 - BB211 (784)- 457-2087 office (784)-533-0431 whatsapp (784)-493-9431 cell (718)-807-4376 office donp@vincysurf.com www.aisvg.com facebook.com/airealestatesvg

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MASON CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED BIGAMY

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Brent Samuel is charged with a nottoo-frequently heard offence.

A 36-YEAR-OLD MASON of Ottley Hall, accused of attempting to marry a second time, while still being married, will appear at the Serious Offences Court January 2, 2019.

Brent Samuel is charged with attempted bigamy, and providing false information to a public servant.

Samuel made a brief appearance before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, as the Serious Offences Court was not sitting.

Samuel is accused of attempting to commit bigamy on December 8 this year, contrary to section 315 (1) Chapter 171 revised edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2009.

He is also accused of giving

Rochelle Nanton of Cane End, she being a person employed in the public service, information that he is a bachelor, intending thereby to cause her to grant the marriage licence which she ought not to have done if the true facts respecting which such information is given was known to her, contrary to section 112 (a) Chapter 171 revised edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2009.

This offence was allegedly committed November 22 this year.

Samuel was not required to plea to the indictable charges, and was granted $5,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Central Police Station every Monday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Serious Offences Court.

POLICE INVESTIGATING NEAR ABDUCTION CASE

by DAYLE DA SILVA

POLICE SAY that they are still investigating the matter as it relates to an attempted abduction of two North Union Secondary School Form 1 students on November 22, in the Sans Souci area.

The incident is said to have involved unknown occupants in a vehicle.

Speaking to the media during a briefing on December 6, Assistant Commissioner of Police in

Charge of Crime - Richard Browne said that the police were working on some leads.

“That is as much as I can say because of the sensitive nature of the matter. We have some leads and we are working on them,” ACP Browne said.

He gave no further details on the matter except that they were investigating the incident involving the two students and one reported by a teacher.

According to one media

report, the girls were making their way back to school when a vehicle with three occupants stopped alongside them. One of the occupants exited the vehicle and began to chase them.

Both students made it safely to their school, but were reportedly Assistant Commissioner of traumatized following the Police in Charge of Crime ordeal.

Richard Browne.

That incident occurred in the Mt Young area. the San Souci area and, No details were given according to police, the with respect to that other incident occurred in incident.

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

Sheldon ‘Busta’ Bynoe – shooting victim.

Diamond man shot POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Sheldon Howard ‘Busta’ Bynoe, a 38-year-old labourer of Diamond/Victoria Village on 06.12.18.

Bynoe was the lone target and victim in a burst of gunfire which, according to the police, happened around 6:45pm on Thursday 6th December.

While a police report spoke of Bynoe showing signs of bullet wounds about his body, a photograph of Bynoe as he lay dead in the street, showed indication of a blood flow from his head.

The police, up to press time Wednesday, said that they have not yet ascertained the reason for Bynoe’s death.

Bynoe’s death brings the homicide count for the year to 34.

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