THE VINCENTIAN PDF- 16-04-21

FRIDAY, APRIL 16,

2021

VOLUME 115, No.15 www.thevincentian.com

Men who stayed Page 3

Anniversary Blast Page 11

EC$1.50

Ash, Ash everywhere Page 12

The giant awakes Page 13

Get out! Prof warns Page 24

When the La Soufriere erupted explosively on Tuesday 13th April, 2021 (as pictured), it marked, to the day, the 42nd Anniversary of the eruption of Friday 13th April, 1979.

SEE STORY ON PAGE 11.

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2. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Business

C&W stands with the people of SVG IN THE IMMEDIATE AFTERMATH of the first major eruption of La Soufrière, Cable & Wireless Communications activated its emergency teams on the ground in St. Vincent and across the region to quickly respond to the needs of employees, their families, customers, and the broader community. “Cable & Wireless Communications (C&W), parent company of Flow St. Vincent, stands in solidarity with the Government and the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (“SVG”) during this most difficult time in the islands’ history. We have been heartbroken to see the images of the disruption of the lives of the people caused by the volcanic eruption. We are committed to doing everything we can to provide support for the relief and recovery of the people of SVG,” said, Inge Smidts, CEO of C&W. C&W has been a longstanding partner with the Government and the people of SVG for more than a hundred years providing cutting edge telecommunications services and having facilitated the development of advanced technologies that have made SVG a formidable destination for doing business in the Caribbean. Smidts continued, “We see the challenges of the people of SVG as our challenges, and we stand ready to do our part to help them through this terrible catastrophe.” As a first matter of safety, the

company evacuated 55 persons including 11 employees and their families into the green zone. Further, employees are being provided with water, food, masks, safety glasses, medical needs and beds, as well as additional relief supplies. Given the impact of the crisis and the critical need for individuals to stay connected with friends and loved ones, the company provided the following: * We issued a $5 Mobile Top Up emergency credit to all our mobile prepaid customers on Thursday 8, April 2021 so that they could have the credit needed to stay connected to family and friends. * Allocated 1 gigabit (GB) of data free of cost to each account for the period April 9 to 11. * Allowed customers topping up online to get an additional 3GBs of data and 90 minutes for local on network calls and international calls. * Suspended late fees for all customers — this was done across the board no matter the location of the customer. * Suspended billing where customers have evacuated their homes or businesses. Consistent with the Cable & Wireless Charitable Foundation’s (CWCF) support to the impacted islands after Hurricanes Irma and Maria; The Bahamas after

C&W Communications, Team Grenada activate emergency relief for Team Flow and the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Hurricane Dorian; and Nicaragua and Honduras after Hurricanes Eta and Iota; the CWCF continues to be there for the communities and supporting them in their time of need. As such, the CWCF moved quickly to provide relief to the community in support of the National Emergency Management Organisation’s (NEMO) requests. So far, the CWCF has shipped almost 20,000 litres of water, which will help support 750 families, as well as 400 beds and linens to the island to meet the need in local shelters. Several NGOs are also arriving on the island to assist with relief efforts and the

company has provided free devices and data connectivity to support them. Individuals or organizations wishing to provide assistance please consider making a donation at: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/CWCF4S VG. “Both C&W and the Cable & Wireless Charitable Foundation are committed to assisting the people of SVG. We extend our thoughts and best wishes to the Government and the people of SVG and pray that they will be safe and will emerge stronger from this crisis,” ended Smidts.

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News 3 Georgetown men staying

ON SATURDAY 10TH APRIL, THE VINCENTIAN journeyed to Georgetown which sits partly in the Red Zone. There were a number of persons seemingly going about their normal routines, amidst vehicles heading out of Georgetown. THE VINCENTIAN encountered 63-year-old Samuel ‘Bongo’ Duncan who said he was once a footballer of some recognition. Duncan, with no shirt and partly covered in volcanic ash, said with much animation, that he was not leaving. “1979 me leave from Soufrière and when me leave and go to Bay Street in town, the thing

blow and dey over me head. So way me ah go run go ?” Samuel asserted, adding that most of his relatives had gone to the shelters And while he admitted the 2021 eruption was worse than that of 1979, he still didn’t intend to leave. “Way me ah go? Foe me go, St. Vincent have to go, the sky have to come down and no earth na dey,” he said with boisterously. James McGuire, better known as Oliver a wellknown character in Georgetown, also spoke to THE VINCENTIAN. He was first spotted arriving at the Georgetown Police Station in the company

of a woman, whom he identified as his wife. Samuel complained that when persons from NEMO were seeking information with respect to or persons who were desirous of staying in a shelter if the need arose, he was overlooked because he was considered to be a NDP supporter. “So, when things getting hot now them say yo want a form, a say stuff it and nyam it, a don’t need it,” Oliver said. He, however, reconsidered and was at the Georgetown Police Station that morning, waiting to be taken to a shelter. “ When I dey home

Staying put in Rose Hall powerful than the most recent eruption. Efforts to determine whether he had since evacuated proved unsuccessful. Antonie Stapleton said he remained in Rose Hall because he has to stay and protect his family’s property. “My whole family is out and I have to stay Ronald Seaton – and take care of the shopkeeper - remained community and look to make sure the after my mother and my others who stayed wife property,” said would not go without Stapleton. basic supplies. Shopkeeper/teacher Ronald Seaton also ON FRIDAY 9TH stayed behind. He said APRIL, following the that he stayed back to first explosive eruption of open his business to the La Soufrière volcano, those person who remain. THE VINCENTIAN “So people would not be journeyed to North running and I must stay Leeward. behind to support these During a stop in Rose people. … I have to Hall, which is located in ensure that no one stays the Orange Zone, the behind and suffer from team encountered a anything,” he explained. group of men who had “I see myself as the remained in the captain and when community, even after an everyone gets off the order for residents of ship, I will. … I have my that Zone was issued for transportation that I can them to evacuate. use to take people out if Dennis ‘Lester’ it comes to that point,” Stapleton said that he he added. was waiting because he Seaton acknowledged, has not seen the need to “We are in an Orange evacuate as yet. He Zone,” and opined, “With believes the 1979 the exception of the eruption was more

Dennis ‘Lester’ Stapleton said at the time of the visit he saw no need to evacuate.

Antonio Stapleton remained so that he could safeguard his family’s property. ashes I don’t think it was so bad,” adding that people tended to panic more than they should.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 3.

Samuel ‘Bongo’ Duncan is staying and says it is the same ash that will fall in Georgetown and wherever he might relocate. James Oliver McGuire went from deciding to stay, deciding to leave but resorted to staying put in his native Georgetown. last night the lava start pelting on the roof and

me say Lord, a way me do with meself? This morning me put on clean clothes, now look at me like pig in a mud,” Oliver related. Moments later Oliver was observed leaving with his belongings. He said that he had changed

his mind. “Me na tink me a move man, I rather dey dey (home) because me could go in lay down as me like, eat as me like and as I told you already when me want go off me go off and me flash me toilet,” said Mcguire.

“Rainfall is a good thing,” Prof. Robertson GEOLOGIST PROFESSOR RICHARD ROBERTSON, Head of The UWI Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC) team which is monitoring the activities of the la Soufriere in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has advanced an interpretation that rainfall plays a dual role at this juncture in the volcano’s unfolding scenario. The volcano began erupting explosively on April 9 after a period of effusive eruptions dating back to November. 29. Following the series of explosive eruption since April 9, the entire country became engulfed in volcanic ash - buildings, vehicles and vegetation were blanketed with various intensity of the ash. Now into what can be deemed a quiet phase so as to allow residents to ‘clean-up’, Professor Robertson, speaking on NBC radio on Sunday 11, expressed the view that heavy rainfall may have some benefits. “It’s a good thing …. . What we have is a lot of loose material on the ground, and we want to get it off the ground, that’s good, that’s the good part. We want to get rid of it, we want it to get into the sea, get into the rivers and have it go away so it won’t affect us,” he said. The Professor, however, was

quick to add that there is a downside to the rain. If the ash gets into the rivers and drainage, it may cause flooding in some areas, he posited. All in all, though, it was better if the ash was washed away rather than if it stayed around. “Even though it has a chance, a risk of doing some damage (while washing it away), it will do much more damage if it stays on the land, if it stays on the roofs and things like that,” said the scientist. Professor Robertson informed that his team has been taking samples of ash and other particles emitted during the eruptions. The samples, he said, are important in analyzing what is taking place currently with the explosive eruption, and will also help to give a better understand when dealing with similar kinds of crises in other countries. “We want, in other words, to understand better what the ash contains for health purposes because sometimes, volcanic ash has harmful, potentially harmful things for human beings,” said Robertson, adding that “volcanic ash potentially has very fine particles that human lungs don’t like”. (KH)

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4. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Relief

Barbados provides tangible aid and more

A BARBADOS Coast Guard HMBS Rudyard Lewis ship, with a complement of 40 sailors, arrived in Kingstown last Friday evening to deliver seven tonnes of humanitarian aid to a volcano- ravage St. Vincent and the Grenadines. During the crew’s final preparations, Attorney General Dale Marshall and Minister of Home

Affairs Wilfred Abrahams visited the base at HMBS Pelican to wish the sailors safe passage. Speaking to the crew before their departure, Barbados’ Attorney General Dale Marshall, said, “I have no doubt, that everyone in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are absolutely petrified. It’s

at times like this that we need to lend a strong arm of support to our brothers and sisters in the region when they need it. “As I speak to you, the Prime Minister [Mia Mottley] is engaging in discussion with Prime Minister [Ralph Gonsalves, to see what assistance St. Vincent and the Grenadines will

require of us, and Barbados stands ready to go very much over, and above that what which we are already doing.” In addition to the humanitarian aid, Home Affairs Minister Wilfred Abrahams indicated that that preparations were already underway to provide housing for any Vincentian evacuees.

Loading the Barbados Coast Guard vessel with supplies for SVG. Wilfred Abrahams said that while the Mia Mottley administration stands ready to assist, a formal request has not yet been made and therefore it was still early days to give details about possible

accommodation. Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George told journalists that COVID19 testing would be part of the process of accommodating Vincentians here.

Guyana to send aid The AB “Goajira” T-63, a Venezuelan Navy ship arrived in Kingstown on Monday with 20 tons of humanitarian.

SVG thanks Venezuela for donation ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves thanked the Venezuelan government and people for sending the aid when the multi-island nation needs it the most. “Venezuela has helped the island many times in recent years. I was not surprised that it lends a hand again so quickly,” Gonsalves said minutes after the AB “Goajira” T-63 Navy ship arrived in his country. The navy ship sailed from La Guaira State with 68 doctors, rescuers, and experts in disaster situations, who will help in the evacuation and care of the victims of the volcano eruption. “St. Vincent and the Grenadines will overcome this emergency and it will emerge stronger. We are here to help them get through these difficult times,” Venezuela’s Vice Minister for the Caribbean Raul Li assured. The Venezuelan government also sent food, drinking water, blankets, sheets, mattresses, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, hammocks, and personal health kits. The ship will be at the disposal of Saint Vincent & the Grenadines for as long as the emergency lasts. It will also transport humanitarian aid from other Caribbean Islands to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

IN A JOINT statement issued last week Friday from the Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Civil Defence Commission in Guyana, it was noted that that country is mobilising support for SVG, and is working to supply as many items as possible, on the country’s immediate emergency needs list. Among the items the country is aiming to send are: 1000 water tanks (800 and 1000 gallons), 5000 buckets (5 gallon), 10,000 folding cots, 150 portable toilets, 30,000 blankets along with 50 field tents (20ft x 20ft) and (910ft x 10ft). Additionally, two field kitchens, 3000 sleeping mats, 1000 respirator masks with filters, 25,000 goggles, 2000 reflective vests, 100 caution tape (100ft roll), and 10,000 hygiene kits are also needed. Additionally, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) has established a disaster relief fund to help St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There are several hundred Guyanese domiciled in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Most of them are resident in the area designated a Green Zone, which is considered safe as of now.

President of Guyana Ifraan Ali (second from right facing camera) chaired an an urgent meeting with members of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and the Private Sector, to coordinate an emergency response to volcano-stricken St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Guyanese media reported that as of last week Friday there were no requests from any of the Guyanese in St Vincent and the Grenadines to be repatriated.

T&T sends emergency supplies to SVG THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO Ro-Ro/Passenger Ship Galleons Passage arrived in Kingstown on Tuesday with emergency supplies for the volcanostricken St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The supplies, donated by various organisations throughout Trinidad and Tobago as well as private citizens, included food

items, water, sanitary supplies, tents, three water trucks filled with water, medical supplies and a quantity of personal protective equipment. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was present to greet the members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force who had accompanied the shipment of supplies. He expressed thanks to the government. He said, “I have a message to my Brother Keith Rowley, to tell him thanks. I have been in touch with Stuart Young quite a lot….. I would like to thank them very much for coming to our help.” He highlighted that Dr Rowley, who is a geologist, was a member of the scientific monitoring team on the ground in St Vincent during the 1979 eruption. The Galleons Passage was scheduled to leave Port Kingstown on Wednesday. Fifty soldiers from T&T are expected to stay in St Vincent for two weeks. Trinidad nationals resident in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and who were desirous of being relocated to their native land, were given the opportunity to do so via the ships The Galleons Passage docked at Port Kingstown where it return voyage. offloaded a varied quantity of emergency supplies.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 5.

Relief

Grenada donates and pledges more THE GOVERNMENT of Grenada will provide $1 million in support for the Government and people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, to help deal with the impact of the explosive eruptions at the La Soufriere volcano. The Prime Minister said Government’s cash donation will be in addition to other emergency humanitarian relief that is being coordinated by the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA).

The first shipment of supplies left Grenada arrived in Port Kingstown last Sunday. The shipment contained primarily water, an urgent need given the contamination of the water supply, but it also included non-perishable food, hygiene products, baby products and adult care items. NaDMA, as the coordinating agency, continues to solicit donations of items on the needs list provided by the National Emergency

Volunteers putting together a shipment of water in Grenada that arrived in SVG last Sunday.

Management Organisation in St Vincent. These items include drinking water, water tanks, collapsible water bladders, buckets, portable toilets, sleeping mats, field tents, respirator masks with

filters, hygiene kits, disinfectants and sanitisers. Since Sunday, a few other shipments have left Grenada for St Vincent, with excellent support coming from individuals, businesses and organisations.

Grenada initially pledged, in collaboration with St George’s University (SGU), to accept Vincentian evacuees if they opted for relocation. However, during an emergency (virtual) meeting of the

Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Authority, this week, Vincentian Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves advised his colleagues of a general reluctance among Vincentians to relocate to other countries.

St.Kitts/Nevis pledge $1m in aid THE ST. KITTS AND NEVIS Government’s package of aid to St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) includes financial assistance in the sum of EC $1 million to assist with: the evacuation and resettling of citizens and residents from the danger zone; welcoming up to 300 evacuees to the shores of St. Kitts and Nevis; providing human resources through the Regional Security System (RSS) recruited from St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force to support humanitarian, technical and peace-keeping efforts on the ground in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and contributing US $20,000 towards the Special Emergency Assistance

Youth Volunteer working to put together supplies for shipment to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Fund of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) in order to bring immediate relief to St. Vincent

and the Grenadines and support its logistical operations. Continued on Page 23.

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6. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 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

When it makes no difference JUST ONE OF THOSE PERIODS when even though the nation is expected to ‘come together as one’, that it also throws up what is good and what is so bad about how we go about our business, even in a time of challenges accentuated by the explosive eruption of the La Soufriere volcano. It seems regardless of the circumstances, we more often than not find ourselves stuck in a mud patch in which we tend to swivel, resulting in a round and round motion that takes us nowhere. So, here’s a quick take on what’s GOOD NEWS and BAD NEWS over the very recent past. GOOD NEWS , regardless of how far-fetched it sounded, that we were told that the services available at the Georgetown Modern Medical and Diagnostic Centre , which had to cease operation, would have been made available at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. BAD NEWS when a young lady appeared on Facebook lamenting that a relative of hers had died because that person was unable to receive previously prescribed dialysis.

frustrated with the repeated nature of questions. REALLY BAD NEWS when the scientists involved in monitoring the activities of the La Soufriere volcano, the head of NEMO and our own Public Utilities Managers were kept away from our own journalists. Do we have something to hide which we fear the local journalists would expose? GOOD NEWS to note that we were able to export some agricultural produce, and hopefully earn some much needed revenue during this period of crisis. BAD NEWS when we boasted about this ‘exportation’ only to realise thereafter, with tail between leg, the need to retain as much food as possible to feed ourselves. (number one priority) during a period when there would a drastic decline in available local food, because of the extensive damage to agricultural production here by the volcanic ash.

GOOD NEWS that CARICOM and other partners moved quickly to come to our assistance, especially as it related to the provision of emergency supplies. GOOD NEWS that we had daily BAD NEWS when from all running updates on the accounts, the state apparatus ‘behaviour” of the volcano and apportioned an inordinate amount how it was affecting daily life in of pre-arranged public recognition the country. and appreciation of the (albeit) BAD NEWS when these generous support from Venezuela, updates came through the Prime leaving some to remark that we Minister and not directly to the are fast becoming subservient to public, making it look to many our Spanish friends. here and abroad, that somebody wanted to control the flow and GOOD NEWS that the state content of the information relayed. apparatus had entered into negotiations with neighbouring GOOD NEWS that both the territories to take in evacuees who electricity and water managers might have preferred to be were able to keep us up to date relocated off island. with the challenges their services BAD NEWS when this faced and what was expected of ‘negotiation’ was not informed by the citizenry. any real indication on the ground BAD NEWS when it appeared that Vincentians would have that at times those managers, the preferred to be relocated off island ones with the information and should an evacuation order be expertise, were being spoon feed so made. BAD NEWS when this as to deal with issues of the ‘negotiation’ backfired in our face. interviewers making, to the extent By the way, are we to expect a that at least one of them appeared, supplementary budget anytime at a certain point in time, to be soon?

Random thoughts on Independence (Editor’s Note: This is the second half of a Radio talk delivered by Dr. Kenneth John on 31/10/82. It was first published in the VINCENTIAN of 10th May, 2019.) WE ARE LITTLE HELPED by an education policy which, having received its initial impulse from outside during the slave era, is yet to be absolved of its original sin. Generally speaking, the people are educated out of their society. There is no compulsory education. Little technical education. Precious little room for the late developer. At best the system flukes a lucky strike here and there usually to produce a member of the intellectual elite who significantly, often reacts against and criticises his own creator! But generally, it churns out misfits and, more ominously, grinds, mindlessly on leaving droppings of human debris at every turning on its purposeless course.

first to consolidate the little we have before moving ahead there being such a small margin to spare - is hard to tell. But it is plain to me that the direction in which we are headed leads to a deadend. Internationally, we ought to join our brothers in the Third World fighting for the establishment of a new world economic order, among other things, and not toy with some new-fangled concept called “The Fourth World”. Similarly, we have to forge new alliances without making Independence count, to embark on a new positive course. Such a course has to be founded primarily on people’s participation and involvement, continuing dialogue between Politics Governments and the governed, the demystification of the political process. The foregoing is, of course, presided Everybody- Government and opposition, over by a political directorate that old and young men and women - have a proudly boast all the trappings of the contribution to make. West Minster Model but sorely lacks the After three years of Independence, essential properties and social underpinnings which give validity to that there is a lot to be desired, but altogether the record is not dismal. We have system- an independent Press, informed managed to keep body and soul together citizenry, a spirit of give-and-take. in very trying times. Although democracy In the result, the local version is a has not exactly flourished, we have to be caricature of the model and forms the natural habitat of the political charlatan, thankful for small mercies, for the number of freedoms which we seem to the chameleon which changes colour to take for granted. melt in the prevailing background. But the time is now ripe for more The cloak-and-dagger politics of the meaningful change - planned, selective times, the turbulence in opposition and constructive change in which we circles, the very short shrift given to make sure that we do not throw out the opponents by Government which see heresy in criticism, the shameful wastage baby with the bath-water. Three years of a two-party system noted for its policy after Independence is a good time as any for us to take stock of our position, brace of “Winner-takes-all”- are but symptoms ourselves and rev up for the take-off into of a deep malaise caused by the artificiality in trying to graft an imported a more meaningful existence. The sense of national pride so sadly system on a local base ill-equipped to bear it. We simply must seek alternative lacking among our people will only come with a feeling of belonging which, in turn, political forms if we cannot tailor the can only be instilled by active present inheritance to suit our needs. participation in the political system and So over all independence is a good thing in so far as it throws us back on our dignified place in the social scheme of own moral recourses, provides us with the things. It certainly will not come naturally, or by exhortation, once people, opportunity to destroy the psychology of rightly or wrongly believe that St. Independence, and forces us to take up Vincent belongs not to them, but is the our beds and walk. But so far, we have preserve of a particular clique of persons. not nearly begun to take advantage of These are the goals to which the nation that opportunity- whether it is because should immediately and urgently address old habits die hard, whether there are vested interests in the status quo, or that, itself over the next three years. The rest will logically follow. at the more pragmatic level, we needed

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 7.

Letters

ÂKiller Volcano WarningÊ

THE HEADLINE to this letter is taken from the Monday 12th April, 2021 issue of the daily Jamaica Observer newspaper. As your readers would imagine, the headline by itself created something of a stir here since on reading the headline only, some people who had heard about the eruption of La Soufriere on mainland St. Vincent wanted to know how many people had been killed. Needless to say, on reading the article one would have realized that the writer was referring to the volcanic eruption of 1902, and reporting that the scientists on the ground this time around, with so

much more at their disposal, had reported that the La Soufriere volcano of 2021 was behaving in a manner similar to that of 1902, and therefore, warned that it could erupt with the ferocity and intensity of the 1902 volcano which killed close to 2000 people, and devastated communities especially in the northern one-third of the island. In response to many calls which I received, I had to allay any fears of death but could not allay the horrors of destruction to housing, agriculture, livestock, infrastructure, the water system and to a lesser extent the national electricity grid. I followed closely all the reports coming from my homeland from Friday to this very

time on Monday when I am writing this. I thank God that to date there has been no loss of life and that all taken, the national response mechanism is working. My one problem with home was learning that there were still some people who bluntly refused to evacuate out of the danger zone. I can appreciate that some of those who stayed wanted to safeguard their property, farms, especially their livestock, but I cannot fathom how people could put their own lives at stake. I can recall that in 1979 many already struggling livestock farmers lost their stock to unscrupulous people

Questions abound IT’S ALMOST mindboggling whilst persons continue to accuse others of being partisan whenever they comment on FB on national issues, and those comments do

* Is Bequia not part of the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines? If so, why are there no measures in place to see that residents and visitors — especially those from the mainland — comply with the COVID-19 related protocols? * Who said the volcanic eruption is a blessing in disguise? * Given the transportation worries for the evacuation, what would have happened if a lot of the people did not have their own means of getting out of the Red Zone? * Is the PM now our leading journalist? * Did the PM assume the chief journalist role so that he could control what certain key figures had to say? * How come people like Professor Robertson and Garth Saunders were not allowed to talk directly to the media?

not appear to be favorable to the Government of the day, it seems that conditioned blindness and deafness become more acute and popular. In a report on NBC705 Morning News, Wed. 14th April, regarding assistance with security and other policing matters during the ongoing volcanic crisis, SVG’s PM notes that some 70 new police recruits have been drafted to aid in providing security at evacuation centres. Note, he also stated that their training was not yet complete, and that they, in his term, were being pressed into service “prematurely... interrupting their training”. While I have no major issue with this fact, it was what followed this statement that came as a shocker.

The additional information proffered, which to me would be something a Minister of National Security would be most hesitant to divulge, whilst noting that with the advancement in technology and in particular that of communications, the PM stated that he was contacted on his phone (mobile I would presume) by one such new recruit, to inform him of certain happenings at the evacuation center at which he was located. Some might be puzzled but take a brief moment to ask yourself the following question: Was this an isolated case or if not, how many such recruits have the PM’s number and can easily access him with a phone call? (I am already hearing the responses, “He is ah man of the people, he ‘rootical, etc.”.

But just keep in mind for a brief moment: we are not speaking of him as the PM as yet, just the Minister of National Security. OK, who knows, the recruit might be a relative or a known constituent but this too, poses some troubling questions: Is there a reporting process? Is there a chain of command? Should a junior police officer, far less a recruit not be providing information through a particular set of channels? Is there a set protocol for the transfer of information? I spoke yesterday about different management approaches and in particular decried the archaic philosophy of The Top down approach... Yes, this is still necessary in the Military... but imagine a private calling a general to tell him about something he thought was not going right in the field tents. To some, being supposedly down to earth is the greatest attribute... to others this is where a breakdown in policy and procedures can be found. But I will end here and you, I guess, can deduce why even though I hope that my views won’t be an offense to many, they will probably be perceived in some quarters as ‘treasonous’. Ron B

who used the cover of the ash and the evacuation to steal at will. I have not heard of any such reports this time around and I understand that unlike 1979, there is a police presence in the evacuated areas. I thank God my family is safe and pray for the safety of each and every Vincentian on the homeland as it faces a dark hour. COVID-19 and then an eruption of La Soufriere in the same year is a burden we didn’t ask for, but we are a resilient people. We shall, as your editorial of last week said, begin soon the task of ‘Rising from the ashes’. Paul in Jamaica

The Duke of Edinburgh WHILE WE are all preoccupied publicly and privately with our Soufriere eruption, I thought it important that we get out a message of Condolence to Buckingham Palace on the death of the Queen’s husband, The Duke of Edinburgh, adding a little recognition in a different light to the publicity around our problem in SVG. You may note my reference to HMY Britannia which is a new focus of attention suggesting that a new Royal Yacht be commissioned in memory of the Duke. Regards, Sir James Mitchell

Condolences to Her Majesty on death of The Duke of Edinburgh Jessica Sorrie | Orders Clerk Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood St James’s Palace London SW1A 1BH Dear Jessica: Please convey my condolences to The Palace for Her Majesty the Queen on the death of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. We fondly remember the Royal Visit of Her Majesty and Prince Philip to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 1985. The short voyage from Kingstown to Port Elizabeth on HMY Britannia remains a prized memory, especially enjoying the humor of Prince Philip. Yours sincerely, Rt Hon Sir James Mitchell KCMG PC Former Prime Minister April 09, 2021.

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8. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Geothermal drilling and La Soufriere eruption – any link? On 2nd April 2019, the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, wrote to His Excellency, The Governor General of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, expressing concerns about the geothermal project in SVG. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, wrote: ‘The proposed geothermal plant is a risk to our drinking water and agriculture. The environmental effects may be temporary or irreversible and may include changes to the landscape and land use, by gaseous emissions into the atmosphere, on surfaces and subsurface water, land subsidence and seismic activity’. La Soufriere last erupted in 1979. For over 40 years, the volcano has been silent and there were no problems for our country. Then the ULP regime’s geothermal project started and very deep drilling was taking place into the volcano. Many people are asking whether there is a

link between the geothermal drilling and the La Soufriere eruption. In May 2006, the eruption of the Lusi mud volcano in Indonesia was caused by drilling for oil and gas, a meeting of 74 leading geologists concluded. In this case, it was argued that the 2,500m-deep bore hole ruptured limestone rock, containing pressurised water. As the lower part of the borehole was not protected by casing, this forced water and mud into the rocks surrounding the well. The pressure in the well went way beyond what it could tolerate... and it triggered the volcano. An award of millions of dollars of compensation was shared by families who lost their homes and livelihood. One wonders how much compensation families and farmers in SVG may be due, because of any losses to their health or agricultural output. The geothermal project should never have been approved for

Take the vaccine THE GOVERNMENT of SVG is using a lot of random reasons for wanting us to take the COVID-19 vaccine and, for the most part, they seem to be losing the battle. The most recent failure is to simply say that our sister nations who are willing to help us in our hour of need (volcanic eruption), demand that those who wish to be relocated must be vaccinated. True or false, it’s irrelevant to me. A much better way to present this position could have been, “I cannot in good conscious send our people to our gracious hosts without the assurance that those we are sending are COVID-19 free, or at the least have been vaccinated against the virus.” Once again no one asked me, but here are some good reasons why you

should take the vaccine regardless of how you feel about the Government and the Prime Minister: 1. Its rapid development does not mean it’s not safe. The speed of its development did not compromise its quality. All vaccine development is driven by the almighty dollar and there was no shortage of money in this effort. Yes, “Big Pharma” is the winner again. The current vaccine was tested in as many or more patients as any other approved vaccine in history, according to most leading epidemiologist. The only difference is the shorten timeline. 2. The vaccines cannot cause COVID-19 because they do not contain the coronavirus. Since the vaccines do not contain the complete virus, they’re not infectious.

operation in SVG. Millions of dollars were wasted on a useless project and it was a big risk for our country. Now our country must suffer the consequences. It was madness. One wonders how long the effect of this eruption of La Soufriere will affect our people. How badly will the ash from the eruption affect our drinking water supply in SVG? How badly will the ash from the eruption affect our food supply in SVG and our agricultural lands? SVG is in a very vulnerable and unsafe position. The economy has been weak for 20 years and our country is running out of money. On top of that, if we have no food and drinking water for any length of time, we will probably be unable to buy water and food from abroad to feed all our people. It is a disaster which many people feel may have been caused by the drilling in the volcano carried out by the geothermal project. 3. In patients with immune defects or a weakened immune system, it may be less effective, but it’s still safe. Talk to your doctor for final recommendation. 4. The vaccines do not interact with our DNA. Hence, no manipulation of your DNA is possible. 5. We do not know for how long the vaccine will provide immunity, but that is the same situation with those who were infected with the disease. Even if natural infection provided better protection than vaccines, it is still dangerous. Compare the number of people infected versus those vaccinated, now compare the number of reported deaths in each category. 6. The vaccine enables you to protect yourself and others even if it’s not 100% guaranteed. Be realistic with your expectations, it may not stop us from getting the virus, but all indications are it makes the severity

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, who lived in the area known as Lot 14 in St. Vincent with his parents where the geothermal drilling was conducted, is making a very strong demand for a similar (geologist) public inquiry as in May 2006 of the Lusi volcano in Indonesia, and if it is ascertained that the geothermal drilling had anything to do with the eruption, that the ULP regime pay substantial compensation to the people of SVG who suffer loss of health, property or income, due to the volcano’s eruption. If the La Soufriere eruption was a consequence of the drilling of the geothermal project, then Gonsalves and the whole ULP government should resign immediately. of those who contract the virus after being vaccinated lower and more survivable. 7. The more people who get vaccinated the safer the world will be, and the sooner we will be able to focus on rebuilding our economy. 8. Finally, if you are still uncertain, do your own research, and yes that means listening to both arguments against and in favor of the vaccine. Maybe talk to your doctor or your pastor. Now to be clear, vaccination will not solve all of our problems, it will not reinstate our economy to the way we were, and after all I am not sure that’s what we want anyway. But being listed as a “vaccinated nation” will certainly allow us to re-enter the newly reconstituted world after Covid19. Let’s give ourselves a chance. Horatio

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 9.

Views

An Explosion of Altrusism

Hang tough SVG

“During periods of crisis we see the best of human nature on display.” Rutger Bregman (Born 1988) – Dutch historian and author. Author of “Humankind: A Hopeful History”.

‘If you think you are going through hell, keep on going. You will come out on the other side.’ Former British Prime Winston Churchill

THE MERRIAM-WEBSTER DICTIONARY defines altruism as “the unselfish regard for or devotion to the welfare of others”. Examples abound of soldiers sacrificing their lives to save their comrades; firefighters who brave the flames to rescue someone that they do not know or never met; or an individual who will rush into the road to pull an unsuspecting child from oncoming traffic. These examples all highlight the heroism that is displayed by individuals who willingly go out of their way to aid others … often endangering themselves. The recent eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano on 9th April 2021 also resulted in an explosion of altruism. It is truly amazing, and most encouraging, to observe the number of individuals who immediately committed to assisting those citizens who were evacuated from the “red zone”. The residents of the northern villages and towns were required to be evacuated several days prior to the eruption. Some of these displaced individuals were housed in homes of friends and relatives who live further south. However, many had to be accommodated in schools, churches, and community centres in locations considered not to be in immediate danger. Unfortunately, there were some residents in the “red zone” who, for a variety of reasons, had opted to remain in their homes even though they were aware of the dangers posed by the La Soufriere volcano. However, the volcanic activities on 9th April so terrified them that many quickly telephoned for help noting that transportation to and from those areas had been restricted once the earlier evacuation had occurred. Some of these roads were already impassable or considered too dangerous to travel. Fishermen from the Calliaqua area (miles away from the stranded residents) immediately volunteered to reach those remote areas by boat. Some made several trips as they shuttled the residents to the coast guard vessels that were waiting offshore. That was an explosion of altruism! The National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) is responsible for managing the 62 shelters now housing the displaced residents from the danger areas. Several local volunteers and service club members have emerged to provide selfless service to the evacuees. They have provided food, water, and household items in an effort to alleviate the discomfort and suffering that would often accompany such traumatic relocations. Managers and leaders of businesses have also demonstrated altruism as they provide a number of household and food items. In addition, many have enabled members of staff to use company vehicles to deliver much needed items to the evacuation centres. However, there is still need for beds, cots, drinking water, food items, and a host of other household and sanitary items. Additional details can be obtained at the NEMO website at http://www.nemo.gov.vc. The Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, has commended

many of the regional governments that have helped and/or committed to assist the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) as we seek to cope with this ongoing crisis. Many regional and international business leaders and service clubs have also committed to partner with the government and people of SVG as efforts are made to relieve the suffering of those persons displaced by the recent volcanic eruptions. We will be forever grateful for their demonstration of love, care, concern, and altruism. This volcanic eruption has disrupted many lives and livelihoods. It has created havoc and pain for thousands. However, amidst all of this, it has generated numberless opportunities to display the goodness of mankind. These kind and self-less deeds remind us that there is still so much good, and potential for greater good, that is trapped within us. These appear magnified when we respond with acts of kindness throughout disasters and crises like these. In the New Testament passage of Matthew 25:31-40, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ commended His followers for their demonstration of love to Him by meeting the needs of others. The passage records His exact words: When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my bretheren, ye have done it unto me. We are privileged to have an opportunity to help those in need as described in the extract from the Matthew 25 quoted above. When we reflect on the dangers and disruptions created by the explosive eruptions of the La Soufriere volcano, may we also value the explosions of altruism displayed by the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the region, and the wider world, in its aftermath. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

shelters rather than travel to foreign lands. Is it that nationals decided against evacuation because neighbouring islands were not sufficiently attractive? Would they have made a different choice if promised relocation to England or the USA? The eruption of the La Soufriere volcano comes at an awful time for our country. We are coming off the worse dengue fever outbreak in memory. Although spared the rough and unhealthy ravages of coronavirus infections, our economy sputters along as the world enters its second year battling the WHO declared pandemic. There will be ample time to analyse, interrogate and deconstruct the adequacy of the government’s preparation for the eruption, Culture and Tourism minister Carlos James’ statement to evacuees in Chateaubelair. ‘This is not a drill. This is a pandemic. Anyone going into a government operated facility will be vaccinated,’ or the authenticity of PM Gonsalves’s statements that regional governments and or cruise ship owners demand evacuees be vaccinated. Now, what is needed is an all hands on deck; I am my neighbours’ keeper, a united national approach to our predicament. We are all in this together. We have our brothers and sisters from the red zone to care for. There is a massive clean up task ahead to remove tons of ash and dust that blanketed the island. Reconstruction and rehabilitative work loom large. Experts have said severe mental health issues can be expected among citizens, particularly among those directly impacted by the destruction and dislocation we witness in the red zone. Many of our kit and kin from the northwest and northeast of St Vincent may be away from homes for an extended period. After the 1979 eruption, residents from those areas were unable to return for four months. They may have a longer wait this time. Their plight is made worse because many homes have been destroyed. Because the entire island is carpeted with ash and dust, there is a real possibility that we may experience a massive increase in respiratory ailments in the near to immediate future. To mitigate this risk, citizens will be well advised to continue wearing a mask until the rainy season. Disasters always present teachable moments. All of us are forced to learn crisis management. And some of us have been exemplary. The volunteers at the centres, Dr Richard Robinson for his outstanding, level headed scientific predictions and analysis of the volcano, Thornley Myers at Vinlec and Garth Saunders CWSA and their staff for ensuring and restoring our electricity and water supply, police and coast guard officers, and members of the business community. Even PM Gonsalves deserves praise for his chirpy optimism. Vincentians need a strong dose of stoic optimism now and in the foreseeable future because we will need much more than faith to pull us through. But as calypsonian Black Stalin reminds, ‘we can make it if we try, just a little harder. We got this SVG. We are accustomed to hanging tough.

SINCE 2010 WE HAVE EXPERIENCED a string of disasters. There were Hurricane Tomas, droughts, the Christmas floods of 2013 and now the La Soufriere volcano’s eruptions. Each of these catastrophes does severe damage to our developmental efforts as well as cause death, destruction and hardship among our people. The eruptions, which began on Friday, April 9, have surpassed those that commenced on April 13, 1979. The dome, which built up in the crater of the volcano, has been completely blown away. Dr Richard Robinson, the top scientist monitoring the explosions, has disclosed that exceedingly hot material belched out of the crater, races down the mountain slope and reached down to the sea. Dr Robinson has also said that the eruptions can go on for days, weeks or months up to about a year. Even with significant assistance, this beautiful slice of paradise and our people will be in for a rough ride for an extended period if these projections hold. The road is rough, and the tough is about to get going. These eruptions have caused significant dislocations. Estimates are that about 16,000 residents of the northern red zone have been moved into safer areas to the south of the island. Amazingly, more than 10,000 of them have found shelter and assistance with families, friends and other well-wishers. The solidarity and goodwill of our people are inspirational. Most have taken it as a bounding duty to pitch in and help. Many volunteered and donated precious time, money, food and clothing. Some of us continue to visit shelters bearing gifts and encourage those in the camps to hold the faith. Vincentians in the Diaspora have, as is their custom, jumped to the call for assistance as if it’s their solemn duty. In due course, their contributions will arrive. These contributions, money and barrels will help ease some of the frustrations and difficulties faced by many in the shelters and those lodged with friends and family. The generosity of our regional neighbours has been prompt and substantial. From the earliest hours after the eruptions, leaders across the region pledged assistance. St Kitts, Guyana, St Lucia, Barbados and Grenada offered humanitarian aid of all kind. Some regional leaders unconditionally committed to taking evacuees to ease the strain on Kingstown, thus providing comfort to those in dire need. Further afield, tourist liners owners also offered to sail persons to destinations across the region free of cost and without restrictions. Countries big and small empathised with our suffering and offered water, cots, foodstuff and other essentials. It is an astonishing story that the government could not find sufficient persons willing, ready to jump on the cruise ships to safety on neighbouring islands. There were reports that many of them would have been housed in hotels in neighbouring countries, especially since the Covid pandemic seriously hampered the tourist trade leaving many hotels unoccupied. PM Gonsalves announced that the tourist liners dispatched to our shores Send comments, criticisms & were asked to leave because people suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com preferred to tough it out in local

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10. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Donations

Assistance from an unlikely source Members of the Chabad-Lubavitch of St. Lucia loading supplies to be shipped to SVG.

director of ChabadSHAARYN BEHR, a South Lubavitch of St. Lucia, and his wife Sternie, to African national who has been establish what could be done to assist St. Vincent domiciled in St. Vincent and the and the Grenadines. Grenadines for the last 11 ‘Chabad-Lubavitch is an Orthodox Jewish Hasidic years, is said to be one of two dynasty. Chabad is one of the world’s best-known practicing Jews in this country. Hasidic movements, particularly for its outreach Whatever her calling, she activities. It is one of the largest Hasidic groups and needed little or no prompting Jewish religious organizations in the world’, into using her connections to according to www. chabd.org. bring much needed relief She had reported that “Everything was dark, the assistance to her adopted ash came through the windows, our floor was black; homeland, during a period of we couldn’t breathe. Outside, it looked futuristic…. real need. We lost power and water on Saturday, along with Not long after the first Shaaryn Behr moved the rest of the island. ….. . It was raining ash. quickly to mobilise her eruption on Friday 9th Everybody was in shock. … Even local produce has colleagues to begin a April, Shaaryn made been ruined… . It’s all covered in ash, and we don’t contact with drive to get relief have enough water to plant more crops right now.” Rabbi Avraham Super, cosupplies into SVG. This was enough to kick start the Supers in St.

French Red Cross lends a hand

THE SVG RED CROSS SOCIETY has expressed gratitude to the French Red Cross for a substantial donation of relief supplies to this country, during the challenging period caused by the violent eruption of the la Soufriere volcano. The local Red Cross said that on Wednesday, it took possession, from the French, some 40,000 thousand bottles of water; 25 cubic meters of bulk storage desalinated water; and cleaning kits, masks, sanitizer wipes, and gloves. Local Red Cross volunteer, in collaboration with the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA), who identified the communities most in need of water, began distribution of the water not long after it was received. Employing as many as 12 trucks, the 40,000 bottles of water

Lucia to mobilizing immediate support. “I saw a humanitarian crisis brewing as soon they said an eruption was imminent,” the rabbi explained. The Supers, that very Friday, began shopping for much needed water, non-perishables, diapers, toilet paper, cleaning supplies and other essentials. “I know of two Jews on all of St. Vincent, but everyone there needs help. We’re sending aid to St Vincent, as well as providing what we can to those arriving on St. Lucia,” the rabbi said at the time..” Recognising that commercial shipping would take too long in the circumstances, and that shipment by air was “prohibitively expensive,” Rabbi Super delivered his truckloads of supplies directly to St. Lucia’s National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), who in turn included it with their own aid delivery to their counterparts at NEMO on neighboring St Vincent. The aid will be distributed by Behr, on behalf of Chabad, to thousands of Vincentians in need. “They go to places no one else will. And they help everyone, no matter what religion you are. I am honored to call myself a ‘Chabadnik,” Shaarn said.

Digicel donates US$500,000 for relief Some 40,000 bottle of water and other relief supplies were offloaded at Port Kingstown last Wednesday. were distributed in 15 communities, in the green zone. The CWSA received the bulk storage water. Once the evacuation order was given, the Red Cross activated its Emergency Operation Centre,

Seventh-Day women donate THE WOMEN’S MINISTRIES Department of the Kingstown Seventh-Day Adventist Church, in collaboration with Dr. Sandra Trotman, and family and friends in the USA, have come to the assistance of St. Vincent and the Grenadines during the crisis wrought by an erupting La Soufriere volcano. Fifty packages each of personal care items were Headmistress of delivered to the emergency the GHS Mrs. shelter at the Girls’ High Michelle Beache School in Kingstown and to accepted the the Mt. Moriah Seventh-Day donation on behalf Adventist Church. of the shelter.

headed by the President Bernard Morgan. The relief efforts undertaken by the Red Cross are carried out by a cadre of dedicated volunteers.

DIGITAL OPERATOR, Digicel Group, has made a donation of US$500,000 worth of muchneeded items to support the urgent relief efforts in St. Digicel Group Chairman, Denis Vincent & the O’Brien assured the Grenadines, government and people of St. caused by the Le Soufriere volcanic Vincent that Digicel stood ready to assist in a meaningful activity. way. With thousands of people evacuated from the red zone and housed in shelters, and significant ash fall resulting from the explosive eruptions of La Soufriere affecting the entire island, the situation is developing and deteriorating, Digicel noted. Leveraging its global reach and supply chains, Digicel will work with the Government of St. Vincent & the Grenadines to identify immediate needs — as well as procuring and shipping items identified as urgently needed in these early stages by the National Emergency Management Organisation. Commenting on the assistance, Digicel Group Chairman, Denis O’Brien, said; “With our priorities being helping to keep people safe and keeping them connected, it’s at times like these that our natural instinct is to want to do everything we can to help. As a company, as a team and as the Digicel family, we are here for the people of St. Vincent & the Grenadines and ready to help in a meaningful way.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 11.

La Soufrière Focus

Soufrière’s big Anniversary Bang

Sandy Bay was left almost unrecognizable after the flood waters caused structural damage throughout.

The vegetation could not withstand the weight of the ash and were left to hang lifelessly. the volcano shifted the phase with its first MOST PERSONS who love explosive eruption. Two celebrating anniversaries others followed that day. often begin with smaller Other explosive happenings that lead up to eruptions followed on the big day with a from 10thApril, right up crescendo of immense the its 42nd Anniversary proportions. date, April 13, 2021, The La Soufrière where it sent out a big volcano’s seismic activity bang to commemorate bore stark resemblance the occasion. to such a practice. That bang came In 1979, it had a smack in the early reasonably serious morning of April 13. The eruption, an occurrence UWI SRC Facebook that many Vincentians described the event as: alive today had “42 years to the day that witnessed. Then, with it erupted, La Soufrière its 42nd Anniversary commemorates her own upcoming, the volcano anniversary with another chose a big bang for the explosive episode. It celebration. However, began at 6:30 am and before that, it gave its still continues at the Vincentian audience, a time of this post [7:30 sequential train of am].” something to come. The La Soufrière It erupted effusively Scientific Update of the between November 2020 UWI SRC categorized and early April 2021. that eruption as a Then, on Friday, 9th “Vulcanian explosion” April around 8:41 am, which are small to by GLORIAH…

A desolate view of Kingstown following the deposit of ash after the eruption. moderate explosive eruptions, lasting seconds to minutes, and which, in this case, sent ash columns up to 20 km in height. This particular explosion was

Evidence of steaming Pyroclastic Density Currents (PDCs) at the bridge at Rabacca.

accompanied by larger seismic tremors which were followed by over three hours of smaller continuous seismic tremor. They “pulsed for ~30 minutes and produced pyroclastic flows density currents (PDCs), otherwise referred to as pyroclastic flows, that reached the sea at the mouth of the Wallibou river approximately 6 km from the volcano,” The UWI SRC said. Eyewitness account of this flow indicated that it took little time to extend into the sea and along the coastline when it reached the river’s mouth. Observations made during the afternoon from the coastline, indicate d that pyroclastic flows had

Lifestock were left to fend for themselves with nothing to eat but ash-covered vegetation. reached the sea in every valley extending from Larakai to Wallibou. The volcano was having ‘a ball’. It was showing its audience its power. It wanted all to know what it could do. The nation needed no further conviction. Thoughts then turned to:

“Will it continue; for how long?” The records now show that La Soufrière has had five explosive eruptions during the recorded historical period. It violently erupted in 1718, 1812, 1902, 1979, and 2021.

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12. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Soufrière

Ash, Ash Everywhere!!!

The tarmac of the Argyle International Airport was taken over completely by the volcanic ash. by GLORIAH… RESIDENTS OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES awoke on the morning of Saturday, 10th April, to a spectacle of blankets of grey ash covering almost every square inch of surface around their properties. According to The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC), the La Soufriere volcano had sprung into an explosive phase around 8:42 am on Friday, 9th, and this was followed by two other

Roads and drains were ideal spots for the fallen ash. explosions. These explosions/eruptions flung ash plumes some 20,000 feet into the sky, from which the ash then descended on property, vegetation, infer-structure, all life forms. There was a general amazement at the way the ash just sat around evenly covering porches, roofs, vehicles, vegetation and many other land features. Left: The ash took its toll on building with no regard for size.

And it, with a slight resemblance to the ash produced from wood burning, this dark-grey mixture of rock fragments and fine mineral particles brought with it a pungent smell of sulphur. Seismic team leader, Professor Richard Robertson, speaking on NBC radio, explained the action that can be taken to deal with the ash fall on one’s property. “If you see a plume coming, make sure your place is closed up. It you are to go outdoors, put dust masks on, wet handkerchiefs. Avoid ingestion of it to minimize the impact. …… Try to get rid of it as soon as it is there, so it does not accumulate. With an eruption in the midst of a pandemic we really have to be vigilant and manage our response to minimize the impact.” Given that the ash could thicken to concrete consistency if wet, it was advised that this removal be done almost immediately. Notwithstanding the importance to acting soonest to get rid of it, many homeowners and their helpers have reported that while sweeping, the light dust gets into the eyes, nose and mouth. Professor Robertson recommends lightly dampening it before sweeping. National Geographic outlines that, “Carbon dioxide and fluorine, gases that can be toxic to humans, can collect in volcanic ash. The resulting ash fall can lead to ……human illness. Ash’s abrasive particles can scratch the surface of the skin and eyes, causing discomfort and inflammation. Professor Robertson spoke of other volcanic ash hazards. “The ash is not good for vegetation. It gets into the grass and the animals eat the grass, the grittiness of the ash actually

Bridges became receptacles of excessive amounts of ash.

A creative way of warding off the ash fall if you wanted to experience walking through a deposit of ash. damages their teeth and ingesting it is not so good for them.” He further highlighted its impact on the agricultural systems and on the flora and fauna of the country. He warned against consuming drinking water that shows signs of being clouded by the ash.

Vehicle parked aside when their engines fell victim to the ash.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 13.

Commentary

The giant awakes That country, albeit perhaps not to the depths of this country, will have its own cleaning up with which to attend.

seimologists on the ground describe as even more threatening. Rivers otherwise providing cooling natural water, took on a new life of heated debris, rushed along by boiling water Evacuation ordered with steam visibly rising from their water surfaces. An evacuation order for persons residing in the areas Needless to say, the around the volcano, the north collection of ash weighed east and north west areas, was heavily on the housing stock, issued on Thursday 8th April, destroying many hundreds of residential following signs of increased propertiesespecially in the activity. norther communities that lie This threw the evacuation within reach of the volcano. plan into full throttle and What was natural green when the 4000 odd feet high vegetation or estates of green giant simmered for the first leafy crops, was overcome by time on Wednesday, some layers of volcanic ash, some 16,000 residents of the northern third of mainland St. say up to four feet in depth in some areas. Vincent had been evacuated; some taking domicile in rented properties, others housed by We shall re-build relatives and/or friends, and 3984 assigned to eighty-seven The last eruption in 1979 caused more than $100m emergency shelters. Ash fills the air in this view of La Soufriere from the Belmont Observatory, after one of the Inhabitants of the northern (£73m) of damage on the eruptions on April 10, 2021. third of St. Vincent constitute island and one life was considered loss in the more than 10% of the country’s population. mayhem. IT LAY DORMANT for 42 years. And so it was that the La that it had grown tired of its This was in stark contrast Some evacuation procedures Residents would have taken it Soufrière volcano, towering slumber. to the 1902 erupted that were hindered by the heavy for granted. However, those who some 4049 feet in the norther On Friday 9th April, 2021, accounted for the deaths of ash fall, which had made had studied it through the years third of mainland St. Vincent, at around 8:42 am, La visibility “extremely poor”, the more than 1,000 people. never failed to remind anyone in the state of St. Vincent and Soufrière belched its first The re-building process will who would listen, that it was an the Grenadines, took it upon explosive eruption in 42 years. National Emergency management organization take some time before it kicks “active” volcano. itself to remind the nation In fact, April 9, 2021 was a in in earnest, and it will be (NEMO) said. mere four days off the 42nd some time before live on And on five occasions, the Anniversary of its last Coast Guard had to dock in mainland St. Vincent returns explosive eruption on Friday to some degree of normalcy. Owia to receive and relocate 13th April, 1979. over 100 persons who had The damage is immense as it There would be two more resisted the early order to is widespread, eruptions that day, and evacuate from the Red Zone. And the situation is further ongoing eruptions into compounded by the prevailing Wednesday, each spewing A new threat presence of the threat of the clouds of ash and dust that coronavirus/COVID-19 which rose to heights of 6km (3.7 Eruptions continued at has already claimed ten lives. miles) into the air. regular intervals right up to Aid will pour in for the Wednesday 14th April and rehabilitation process from A blanket of ash while there was a lessening of friendly countries and multithe ash emitted, the volcano lateral lending agencies. How And so it was that by had entered a period of effectively it is used should be Saturday (April 10) all of St. explosions that result in the concern of each and every Vincent was waking up to a country blanketed in a layer of pyroplastic flows, fast-moving Vincentian both here and avalanches of searing hot gas abroad. ash, which many a citizen and volcanic debris, which described as snow given its white-coloured appearance. The mild eruption of 1972 left the first dome surrounding by The ash covered water. vegetation, buildings and roads right across the island. The prevailing winds took the ash eastward to Barbados and it descended on that island in torrents, it seemed, for a normal sunny 3:00pm in that country was transformed into a darkened hour.

When the dome of 1972 was blown to piece, it was replaced by another dome with little or no water surrounding it.

Right: By 2020/2021 another dome (left) developed on the western end of the crater.

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14. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

People

An evacuation story: Caring for yourself

by GLORIAH…

evening, about 1,837 residents from the Red ON THURSDAY, 8th April an and Orange Zones were evacuation order with evacuated, uprooted in an immediate effect, was instant, many taken to issued by Prime Minister twenty emergency shelters Ralph Gonsalves. By in the Green Zone.

On Wednesday, 14th April, THE VINCENTIAN met up with Selwyn ‘Selly’ Patterson from ‘Park’ in Rose Hall, North Leeward.

‘Selly’s’ family of seven was aware of all warning bulletins. “I didn’t pack in advance but we all knew all we were going to carry and we had the

foodstuff ready,” he said. Did they expect that evacuation order? “On the Thursday night, we saw something like magma running down the side of the mountain,” he explained, “but on the Friday I took a trip to Chateaubelair, and I saw the first explosion there. By the time I got back to Rose Hall, it exploded again.” He said he collected his family and friends and headed out, but witnessed the third eruption at Belle Isle. But even as they journeyed away, from their home, they didn’t know where they were going. “Selly’ expected to rent premises for his family but this proved unsuccessful. He proceeded to Barrouallie where, “I saw a friend and explained that I was looking for somewhere to rent and he immediately took us in,” Selly explained. He said after his family had settled in, three persons were added to the to their fold. As for coping, he said, “I went back home for my gas bottle and we are cooking our own food. Everybody is comfortable.” As for the difference between a shelter and premises with family, Sally was adamant that, “I know camp life from ’79 and that it is where you have to wait for things to happen for you. Although we would have

Selwyn ‘Selly’ Patterson was bent on identifying an opportunity for his family to remain together but preferable not in a shelter. been provided for, as a family man I didn’t want to take my family into a camp. I wanted to provide for them within our own timing.” He believes that the country is in for the long haul and so advises evacuees like himself whether in shelters or otherwise, to listen to the science as the scientists have proved to be accurate thus far. He also cautioned persons not panic, and those in shelters should cooperate with shelter officials and obey the health protocols in the interest of everyone’s safety.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 15.

Diaspora

All hands on deck for volcano relief Verna Arthur, Chairperson of SVG Sherill-Ann Mason-Haywood, Relief, Inc. reminded that her coordinator of SVG-DRIPP. organization has a proven record of cooperation, Mason-Haywood said mobilizing and delivering relief Consul General Howie Price is looking SVG-DRIP has mobilized persons assistance to SVG and other into the possibility of having a US and groups throughout the Diaspora Caribbean territories. military aircraft airlift the relief supplies — in the US, United Kingdom, into SVG. Canada and US Virgin Islands — to to be especially careful in protecting work together “to kick-start a major, the health and safety of evacuees in joint relief initiative” that was Story and photos by congregate settings.” launched on Feb. 20, 2021 on the NELSON A. KING Verna Arthur, chairperson of SVG virtual platform of VC3 television in naking@verizon.net Relief, Inc., said since the group was St. Vincent and the Grenadines and on US CORRESPONDENT formed in 2013, it has mobilized and other major social media platforms. donated relief aid to St. Vincent and St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ VINCENTIANS in the United States the Grenadines, and other Caribbean New York Consul General Howie Diaspora are calling for “all hands on countries and organizations. Prince said his office has been deck” to rush urgent relief aid to St. “Our current initiative is assisting mandated by the Ministry of Foreign Vincent and the Grenadines in the wake NEMO with its request to help SVG of the ongoing, massive La Soufrière fight COVID-19, dengue fever and the Affairs to coordinate and accept relief volcano eruptions. eruptions of La Soufrière volcano,” she on behalf of the country. “Because the Consulate General has “This is a day we all hoped would told the press conference. “And now, never have come,” declared Vincentian 2021, we are here once again, without been asked to coordinate these efforts, we’re asking all organizations to Vaughan P. A. Toney, chief executive hesitation, responding to the call of contact the Consulate, so we can point officer and president of the Friends of our beloved country.” you in the right direction,” said Prince, Crown Heights Educational Centers in Laverne Dowald-Thompson, disclosing that he had had preliminary Brooklyn, New York, at a media president of the umbrella Vincentian briefing Sunday at one of his centers, group in the United States, Council of at 671 Prospect Place in Brooklyn, St. Vincent and the Grenadines called by the Brooklyn-based St. Organizations, USA, Inc. (COSAGO), Vincent and the Grenadines Relief, said her organization is working with Inc. other Vincentian groups to conduct Toney, who is also a member of SVG relief efforts. Relief, Inc., said that “the government “I’m here to join with all on this cannot navigate this crisis alone,” platform today to make a special adding that “a crisis of this magnitude appeal to the Vincentian community to requires all hands on deck. lend a hand to our brothers and sisters “And, in particular, it requires the at home,” she urged. “We stand in a united, organized and supportive state of readiness to respond to our engagement of our entire Vincentian country’s needs. Diaspora,” Toney urged. Sherrill-Ann Mason-Haywood, As such, he announced that on coordinator of the Brooklyn-based SVG Saturday and Sunday — April 17th and Disaster Relief Initiative Platform 18th — SVG Relief, Inc. will be (SVG-DRIP), said the new dynamic accepting deliveries of emergency platform is “designed to bring together relief supplies at the Friends of Crown Vincentians across the globe to rally Heights Educational Center. around collective initiatives that Toney said the committee has increase the impact and reach of prepared a list of the most needed localized efforts to support SVG before supplies, with emphasis on blankets and after major disasters and crises.” and field tents, respirator masks, Through constructive dialogue and personal hygiene kits, bleach, disinfectants, food and drinking water.” “Let us not forget that this crisis is unfolding in the midst of a public health emergency due to COVID-19,” Toney cautioned. “So, we need

Vaughan Toney, president and chief executive officer of Friends of Crown Heights Educational Centers and member of Brooklynbased SVG Relief, Inc. discussions with Brooklyn congressional representatives Yvette D. Clarke and Hakeem Jeffries, and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, for the possible use of a military aircraft to ship relief aid to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Orlando, Florida-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Central Florida Organization (SVGCFO) has also asked nationals in the area to help in the massive relief effort. The group is organizing a Volcano Relief Disaster Drive on Friday, April 16 and Saturday, April 17th, at 3701 N John Young Parkway, Orlando Fl. 32804, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., “and would like to invite you to support our drive,” according to public relations officer Lydia Daniel.

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16. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

GG appeals to persons in the red Zone Stories by GLORIAH… GOVERNOR GENERAL Her Excellency Dame Susan Dougan has made an urgent appeal to persons who, up to Wednesday, were still in the Red Zone, to move to safer areas. She made the call as she addressed the nation on

Wednesday, 14th April. “I would hope that by now, there is no-one left in the danger zone of the volcano,” she declared, “either because of infirmity and inability to access the means to move, or through a conscious decision to stay put and not move.”

She went on to mention NEMO’s work to ensure that all persons were relocated and encouraged anyone remaining to use (their) common sense and get out. “I know that the National Emergency Management

Organisation (NEMO) has done its best to ensure that all persons in the danger zone were given the opportunity and the means to get out of the danger zone,” she acknowledged. “but if there is any persons still remaining in the danger or Red Zone who have

deliberately decided to stay there, I am now appealing to such persons to let common sense prevail and to get to a safe zone as soon as possible.” Governor General Dame Susan took the opportunity to express appreciation for the assistance provided by regional and international countries in the aftermath of the La Soufriere eruption. “We have seen the Environment from The University of Leeds and a M.Sc. in Geophysics from the Universidad de Chile. outpouring of support coming from our Before pursuing doctoral studies in the United Caribbean neighbours Kingdom, he worked as a Seismologist and previously as a Physics lecturer in his native Chile. and from friendly His research interests include physical modelling of governments and people around the world, as seismic activity in volcanic settings and solid—fluid soon as word got out that interactions in volcanic environments. The UWI SRC believes that Dr. Arratia’s addition there was an explosive to the staff is extremely timely. It stated that, “Dr. eruption of the La Contreras Arratia joins the centre at a critical time. Soufriere volcano,” she remarked. “What we are His first assignment will be to support the current experiencing is humanity scientific effort at La Soufriere, St. Vincent.” at its best. That is, the Even as the UWI SRC wishes Dr. Arratia all success during his time at the UWI-SRC., the people innate nature of human beings to show love, of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be quite kindness and grateful to welcome and work along with another compassion.” stalwart professional from the centre, engaged in Meanwhile, PM Ralph the monitoring of the La Soufriere volcano. Gonsalves, also on

New seismologist heads to SVG DR. CONTRERAS ARRATIA will shortly be joining the team from The University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC), who are currently monitoring the activity at the La Soufriere Volcano. According to a bulletin from the UWI SRC dated 14th April, Dr. Arratia has just joined the staff of the Seismic Research Centre in Trinidad and Tobago, succeeding long serving seismologist Dr. Joan Latchman. He is Chilean and holds a Ph.D. in Earth and Dr. Contreras Arratia – newest addition to the team at The UWI SRC.

Governor General Her Excellency Dame Susan Dougan joined in the appeal to persons still in the red Zone, to get out. Wednesday, noted that the Coast Guard, over five consecutive days, had had to ‘take out’ persons from the Fishing Complex in Owia. Those persons had remained in the Red Zone even after consistent appeals to get out. Dr. Gonsalves said, “They have taken out 127 persons. They took out 18, 773, 13, 12, and 12. The point is this: these are evacuations a couple of days subsequent to when we had made the first order for the evacuation.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 17.

News

SVG Christian Council encourages Godly calm and trust THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Christian Council encourages all to be calm, prayerful, and hopeful amidst the current developments with respect to the eruption of the LaSoufriere Volcano, and the evacuation of those living in the Red Zone. It remains true that cooperation and camaraderie, working together and looking out for one another are invaluables asset in times of great challenge. This spirit of collaboration and solidarity that has been wonderfully demonstrated by neighboring countries, ought to be even more evident by all of us on the ground. We have already received words of encouragement and promise of support from both the Barbados and Grenada Christian Councils. We are mindful that there will be shortcomings by various participants in the management of this situation, however , we ask for an approach to such that is responsible both in our attitudes and utterances, seeking to build rather than break down, to inspire rather than incite resentment and fear. We will have occasion to evaluate and learn from our experience.

Please be very careful what information you receive and circulate. NEMO is the most authoritative source of information. Do not circulate information that you have not verified. We are aware that pictures have been circulated that are not from St Vincent. Let us continue to pray. It is still true — our faith will see us through. We continue to believe that God can spare us from a disaster or enable us to get through a disaster. We believe in His power and trust in His grace and wisdom. In quietness and in trust (in God) shall be our strength (Isa 30.15)

Prayer God of goodness and love, in whom we can trust in every hour of need; have mercy on all who are faced with uncertainty, fear and distress through the eruption of La Soufriere Volcano. We ask that help may be given to them speedily, and that this emergency may be turned into an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of love and service which bind people and nations together; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Washing down „Town‰ WASHING AWAY the volcanic ash that has settled on the streets and sidewalks of capital Kingstown in particular, is an ongoing exercise undertaken by the Fire Department of the Royal St. Vincent and the grenadines Police Force. Fire Chief Superintendent Joel James told THE VINCENTIAN that his team has been taken on this responsibility with some urgency, cognizant of how irritating and potentially harmful the ash can be to citizens. He noted that many persons are asthmatic and this ailment can be aroused by breathing in the ash that contains pulverized rock.

Additionally, the Chief noted that it was critical to remove the ash from the surface of the road and pavements so as to make traversing by vehicles and pedestrians a little more comfortable. Supt. James assured that the water used in the exercise was drawn from the rivers (North and South) that run through Kingstown. No water from the domestic supply is used, James stressed. The Fire Chief pleaded with motorists to go slowly when they see units from the Fire Department in operation, so as to avoid driving over their water hoses. (SG)

Fire Department Officers involved in washing away the volcanic ash in Kingstown.

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18. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

The wedding is cancelled

Dear George, MY BOYFRIEND has set me up and I am now devastated and ashamed. We have been dating for two years and when he announced he had finally decided to settle with me, I could not contain my joy. I told all of my friends and relatives and begun planning right away for the big day in July. Them he changed his mind and when I asked why he did, all he said was somethings came up. Worse, he asked that I return the engagement ring. That is an all-time low! He gave it to me; that makes it mine. Why should I give it back to him? I want you to settle this dispute about the ring for me please I hate a man who cannot keep his word. How am I supposed to face my friends and relatives now?

Dear Terribly disappointed, The ring was an indication of a promise to marry and if there was a change of plans, then your boyfriend has a right to have his ring back, as upsetting as that may be. It would do you no good to hold on to it especially if there is not even a remote possibility of him changing his mind. I do think he owes you a better explanation but you cannot force him to give one. Do not see yourself as a loser or failure because of this. With time you will get over this disappointment. You can choose to speak with a counsellor to help you through this low point in your life.

George

Terribly disappointed

Tell her like it is Dear George I LIVE in Barbados but have a relationship with a girls who lives in St. Vincent. Our relationship grew out of several visits I made to St. Vincent and she made to Barbados. That said, I am now to conclude that she is a taker. She constantly asks me for money (for rent and utility bills) and expensive gifts. The more I give her, the more she wants. So much so, my relatives, who know about her ways, have warned me that settling down with her would

bring me nothing but misery. I am at the point where I am about to dump her but just want to find the best way to do so. I just want your opinion on how to exit this relationship smoothly.

Not so lucky Dear Not so lucky, The way to exit is to tell her that she has not met your expectations as it relates to the kind of woman with whom you wish to settle. You can take the time to point

out the things that are deal breakers for you, and how those things interfere with your ability to love and marry her. I can tell you with certainty that she does not represent all Vincentian women and you would be advised not to make a blanket judgement. There are many Vincentian women who are disposed to loving a man for who he is and not for what he has. You just have to take the time to seek them out.

George

Do the right thing ⁄ Dear George,

Dear Uncomfortable,

I HAVE been keeping a deep dark secret from my girlfriend. Our relationship is still young and we have not had sex to date. About ten years ago I had a run-in with her mother which developed into a relationship that was purely to satisfy our sexual needs. Fast forward ten years and I happen to meet her daughter who wanted a relationship with me. Even though you can say we are dating, in the back of my mind I feel guilty about my past relationship with her mother. But I am afraid that if I tell her, she might have none of it and leave the relationship. I really do not know what to do.

You cannot build a relationship if there are skeletons in either party’s closet. You will be better off if you operate on principle and with transparency. The way forward cannot be smooth once your secret is revealed. The thought of you having a sexual relationship with her mother will never sit well with her, and your persistence to operate as normal can result in a damaged relationship between mother and daughter. Do not leave it up to this young lady to make that decision whether to leave or not. Do the right thing and remove yourself.

Uncomfortable

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Do not jump to conclusions concerning your romantic partner. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. Onesided relationships are likely. If you're looking to do something worthwhile, consider volunteer work. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Try not to be too aggressive or judgmental when talking to your mate. Let your lover know what your personal intentions are. You can accomplish a lot if you work out of your home this week. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Try to keep your opinions to yourself. Small business ventures can earn you extra cash. Try to understand their point of view. The only thing you'll accomplish is a bad reputation. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Entertain in your home and make aesthetic enhancements that will please those who reside with you. You can make new connections if you play your cards right. Investments will cost more than you anticipated. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) The emotional state of peers may cause a problem for you. Risky financial ventures will result in unrecoverable losses. Remember that no one can walk through your door if there's someone standing in the doorway. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Erratic behavior may confuse others, and mood swings may result in isolation. Take the time to do your job correctly or you may find yourself looking for a new one. Social activity should be on your agenda.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Sudden changes regarding your circle of friends could prove interesting and stimulating. You can make new friends and get involved in new hobbies successfully. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Children will keep you busy. You will feel compelled to do some traveling. You could meet an interesting individual you'll want to get to know better. Your words will be taken out of context if you're evasive with coworkers or employers. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will meet potential new mates through business. Family responsibilities are mounting. You are best not to discuss your personal life with others. Travel for business purposes may bring the highest returns. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Focus on forming business partnerships. You should not get involved in joint ventures. Work hard on improving your living quarters. Romance is quite possible if you are willing to approach someone who interests you. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) If you can include them in your plans, do so. Your high energy and discipline will enable you to complete any seemingly insurmountable tasks. Your support and concern will help. You can make new connections through friends or relatives. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't invest too much of your own money. Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. You may feel that someone at work is holding you back.

ACROSS 1. Nile vipers 5. Dessert-menu words 8. Adventure narrative 12. Incline 13. Rule 14. Barrette kin 15. Tennis’s Sampras 16. Coloring substance 17. Roof part 18. Senora Peron 20. Transgressed 22. Auto extra 25. Italian capital 26. Severe 27. Sporting official 28. Minimally illuminated 31. Mined matter 32. Less friendly 34. Manipulate 35. Small legume 36. Preserve (peaches) 37. Unwraps 39. Bonus 40. Electricity units 41. Money holder 44. Bill figure 45. Thin woodwind 46. “_ missed you!” 48. Quick haircut 52. Melodious Horne 53. Frying liquid 54. Acting quest 55. Escaped 56. Entertainer King Cole 57. Holler DOWN 1. High mountain

2. Watch 3. Butter portion 4. Nasty smiles 5. “M*A*S*H” star 6. Place (down) 7. Terrific 8. Play division 9. Astronaut Shepard 10. Contribute 11. Imitated 19. Transportation means 21. Make better 22. Retail outlet 23. Peel (apples) 24. District 25. Destroys 28. Formal fight 29. “_ this nice?”

30. Goof (up) 33. Road-sign warning 38. Literature genre 39. Beg urgently 41. Pack predator 42. Biblical murder victim

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 19.

43. Unescorted 44. Groped 47. _ airmail 49. Salmon eggs 50. Needing a doctor 51. Comical Brooks

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20. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Sardine: ÂBuild youth football on three pillarsÊ IAN SARDINE, Youth Development Office of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), believes there are three critical pillars on which the development of youth football here should be predicated. Should these pillars be embraced and supported, Sardine sees a Youth Development Programme that will give the players the ideal start to football careers. “For us to get football to move forward fully, we need three main things. Firstly, we need a large amount of equipment. Coaching can’t be done without proper equipment. Each coach, each team should be supplied with adequate supplies across the board,” Sardine said . He added, “Secondly, we need more coaching development programmes to develop the coaches, to expose them and lift the standard. For our coaching standard to rise, coaches must be exposed to a higher level of training so that they would then be able to life the standard of the sports.” With respect to coaches,

Sardine also said it should be a requirement that coaches be evaluated and guided periodically. As far as the third pillar was concerned, the Under-17 female footballers in training. Sardine wants a programme to Youth Development assist their development that is built of three pillars. Officer cited “the need for a Coaching as to keep then in the sport. fundamentals he see as Manual that all coaches “The players themselves lacking among players here, should be made to follow, so the man who has nurtured that we’ll have one philosophy need to be motivated; they have to see that there are many from youth to national from the club level to the some benefits staying in the senior ranks laid it out as: “In national level.” sport, either the possibility of every period that SVG has And Sardine is of the view done well regionally, it was that we have an abundance of going to college or playing resources in country which can professionally, as some would the drive by the authority and help to inform a Manual. “We have done before. So, we need the coach to get the players fit some of that to trickle down to and active. There is enough just need a vision and the the players; for them to know history for us to recognize the determination to do it,” that there is a pathway for importance of physical fitness Sardine assessed. in the sports, but it is not The Manual, he said, must them to follow,” Sardine expressed. something that translates be circulated nationally, “to He noted with much easily to the kids at the club schools, clubs and to coaches.” emphasis, “A player who and foundation level. We need Sardine, a retired primary comes casually with their own to make it little more school teacher, Founder, Director and Coach of System clothing to training is a understood - the importance of 3 Sport Academy and a former different player from the one physical as well as mental President of the SVGFF, needs who is well dressed; his approach to the game is quite work to order to participate no convincing about the consistently in football. So we different so we need to give benefit of motivating the need to start getting that those incentives.” players from a young age, so message across to the kids at a And addressing one of the

Ian Sardine is not only a qualified coach and former football administrator but he has a history of guiding many a young footballer through the various national levels. young age so the coach won’t have problems when they reach to the Under-17 and up to the national level — male and female.” I.B.A.ALLEN

SOSVG making use of downtime EVEN AS SEZEVRA JOSEPH, National Director Special Olympics St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SOSVG), is as anxious as the Special Athletes are for a return to action on the field, she is satisfied that the down time is being used constructively. One area that has received attention is preparing the Special Athletes to be effective ambassadors for Special Olympics. The athletes, Joseph said, are expected to “promote Special Olympics,.. to talk about Special Olympics: what it means to them; why they’re involved; why other people should be involved with persons with disabilities; why people should partner, especially sponsors; why you

should become unified partner.” She highlighted that football is the major unifying sport (abled and disabled persons) the SOSVG promotes, and is played under the internationally accepted rules of the sport. Joseph added, “It is not for me so much as a National Director to be out there speaking on their behalf. They can do it too and so we are trying to train them to do that. “Our young athlete programme doesn’t have a lot of them at the moment but we trying to recruit more to follow in the footsteps of Terrance Davis, who sits on the North America Council, serves as Sport Director of Special

Olympics SVG and recently was elected chairman of the Sports Training Committee for the Caribbean Initiative.” Another Special Olympians engaged in a friendly game of Bocce, area of focus one of the sports on the SOSVG schedule of activities. Sezevra Joseph, is training the coaches — National Director down in a manner that possible participation in Special Olympics some of even the intellectual regional and international St. Vincent and the whom are challenged persons can Games. disabled but Grenadines understand.” One thing is certain; the (SOSVG). many are The period is also being SOSVG has its eyes on the able-body used by the Directors to next World Summer Special volunteers. ensure that they are on top of Olympics Games, scheduled Joseph explained, “Coaches preparations for the return of for June 16—25, 2023, in are trained so that they’re able Special Olympics here and Germany. to teach the persons, break it

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 21.

Sports

SVGFF to extend relief to players

President of the SVGFF- Carl Dickson.

THE ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Football Federation (SVGFF) is set to take a number of initiatives aimed at cushioning the plight of footballers, who have been displaced by the ongoing eruptions of the La Soufriere volcano. President of the SVGFF- Carl Dickson spoke of this plan on Wednesday. “Since the initial explosion on Friday, April 9th, we have taken steps to determine the whereabouts and circumstances of affiliate members evacuated from the Red Zone; this included physical ‘drive-throughs’, visits to shelters and private homes, social media, and direct phone contact,” Dickson said. Dickson disclosed that affected players and affiliates who have not

been contacted should inform the various shelter managers, who in turn will contact the SVGFF Secretariat. The expectation is, though, that Managers of affiliated clubs would submit information on footballers who have been displaced and are in need. In addition to this direct outreach, Dickson highlighted that the SVGFF is making its buses available for distribution of goods. “We continue to make the buses available for distribution of essential items to shelters and private homes. “Assistance has also been rendered with the provision of essential items that were immediately available from the most recent camp, which include foodstuff mattresses and water,” the SVGFF Head informed.

The SVGFF is also coordinating assistance from the Football fraternity outside of St Vincent and the Grenadines. “We have made arrangements to our regional and international partners to source and deliver supplies to our shores,” the SVGFF President indicated, adding that as soon as the supplies are received, a task force set up to coordinate the overall response will further kick in. Dickson underscored that the Caribbean Football Union, CONCACAF and FIFA, “have reached out to the people of SVG, through the offices of the President and General Secretary, with assurances of solidarity and support.”

Hope Int’l not hopeful THERE IS a strong possibility that reigning National Premier Division championsGuardian General Hope International, would have to wait a little longer, if at all, to make their debut in the Concacaf Caribbean Club Shield. This after the regional confederation postponed the 2021 championship until further notice, due to the rising Covid-19 cases in the host nation- Curacao. According to a correspondence signed by Carlos Fernández, Concacaf’s Director of Competitions, the governing confederation decided to postpone the championships following recommendations from the local authorities of the host nation, with respect to the rise in Covid-19 cases. However, Hope International’s Manager, Akin John, in an interview last Wednesday with the VINCENTIAN, revealed a further turn of events occasioned by the explosive eruptions of La Soufriere last Friday. John noted: “The preservation of life, the preservation of property, the difficult times which our family and friends are experiencing in St Vincent and the Grenadines, throw up everything.” He added, “In all honesty, the realities that we are faced with on the ground as a fall out to the volcanic eruption, have taken our focus from Football, as one or two members of the club

reside in the red zone, and had to relocate, so we have been focusing on being in touch with them. John intimated that despite the initial expression of disappointment of the championships being postponed, the club was always cognizant of the possibility of La Soufriere erupting and causing displacement of persons. “Initially we were very disappointed because a lot of preparation had gone in, but we had already notified the organisers of the activities surrounding our volcano, and although we did not know definitively when activity would have increased, it was always a possibility,” John related. Hope International was among 14 teams that had confirmed their participation in the 2021 championships, which was slated for 23rd April to 2nd May. Hope International was placed in Group C, alongside Fruta Conquerors of Guyana and Racing Club of Aruba. Should Hope International opt out of the championships or the championships is cancelled altogether, it will be the second time that St Vincent and the Grenadines will not be represented. Last year, the championships was cancelled following the outbreak of the coronavirus. BESCOPastures, the 2018/2019

Premier Division champions, was to have represented St Vincent and the Grenadines. Guardian General Hope International. Akin John is standing at right.

Vincy Heat to play Haiti in Miami ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ Vincy Heat will meet Haiti on either the 2nd or 3rd of July in the preliminary round of the Concacaf Gold Cup qualifier, at Inter Miami CF Stadium in South Florida. This was announced last Thursday by the confederation. The Vincy Heat versus Haiti encounter is one of six Gold Cup Qualifying matches set for that period. The others are Barbados against Bermuda, Guyana versus Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago against Montserrat, Bahamas plays Guadeloupe and Cuba engages French Guiana. Second round matches see the winner of the St Vincent and the Grenadines/ Haiti match taking

on the winner of the Barbados versus Bermuda clash for a spot alongside, Canada, Martinique and the USA in Group B. The team that emerges winner from the tie between Guyana and Guatemala and the Bahamas against Guadeloupe match- up, will earn a place to Group C that contains Jamaica, Suriname and Costa Rica. The winner of the Trinidad and Tobago against Montserrat showdown is slated to play French Guiana or Cuba, for a Group A place, which is completed by El Salvador, Curacao and Mexico. With, Group D has been determined as Honduras, Panama, Grenada and Qatar the

invited team. St Vincent and the Grenadines missed out on direct qualification for the Gold Cup, after losing their final match 0-1 to Dominica back in November 2019. This was in the Concacaf Nations League, which served as a qualifier for the Gold Cup. Suriname won the group, leaving second place St Vincent and the Grenadines to go the other route, which they will embark in early July. Second Round matches take place on 6th July. Meanwhile, the Concacaf Gold Cup is set to kick off on 10th July and end on 1st August.

This country Senior Men’s Football Team – Vincy Heat will continue to play their matches away from home.

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22. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

New tennis talent emerges

Nathaniel Lawrence

SOME NEW talents emerged when the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association (SVGTTA) hosted its April Junior Championships, at the National Tennis Centre at Villa. When the Championships concluded on Wednesday, 7th April, several players were in their glee, as they were rewarded with trophies or medals. Dannelle Kennedy came out on top in the Girls Under-10, leaving Loukiya Premaj to have

Bascombe records Carifta qualifying time VINCENTIAN athlete Xaria Bascombe, currently enrolled at the Verchilds High School in St Kitts, has made the 2021 Junior Carifta Games qualifying time for the Under-17 100m. The Games are scheduled for Bermuda from 2nd to 4th July. Competing in the St. Kitts and Nevis Athletics Challenge Series Meet 2 last Sunday, April 11, 2021, at the Kim Collins Athletics Stadium, Xaria Bascombe clocked 12.18 seconds to finish 2nd in the 100m for Girls Under17. The qualifying time c as set by Team Athletics SVG was 12.25 seconds. Bascombe’s training partner and fellow Vincentian Latavia Simon, who is also enrolled at Verchilds High School, finished 4th in a time of 12.80 seconds, in the same race. The Verchilds High School was quick to congratulate Bascombe. In a release, the School said: “We are proud of you, Xaria, and of your achievement. Additionally, we are grateful for the work that your coach and guardian Jenice Daley has done with you, in the arena of Track and Field and other areas of your development. “ Both Bascombe and Simnon are members of the IT DAT, a local track and field club. Shafiqua Maloney, who continues to impress for the Arkansas University in the 2021 Track and Field season in the USA, is an alumnus of the Verchilds High School, and also a former care of Coach Daley. I.B.A.ALLEN

to settle for the runner-up position. Matthew Clarke took the Boys’ Under-10 title, beating Nathaniel Lawrence in the final. Lawrence, though, rebounded to beat Clarke in the Boys’ Under-12, winning 4-1, 0-4, 5-3. Winning the Girls’ Under-12 title was Dannelle Kennedy who added a second accolade when she stopped Rolene Sam, 5-3, 4-0 in the Final. Meanwhile, Jaiden Bowens took the Boys’ Under-14, trumping Angello Morgan 4-0, 4-2. Bowens, stepping up in the age grouping, was defeated by Che Connell in the Under-18s Final. Connell won 6-3, 2-6, 6-2. In the Girls’ Under-18s Singles Final, Yasmin Sandy had a 2-6, 6-4, 6-0 triumph over Jaydealeah Chambers. In the Doubles, the pair of Matthew Clarke and Ethan Kent had the better of Akquin Johnson and Nathaniel Lawrence 7-5, 6-2, to claim the Boys Under12 title. In the Girls Under-12s, the duo of Dannelle Kennedy and Rolene Sam combined to get past Loukyha Premraj and Zareah Byron (left) Steadysha Penniston (right)

Che Connell Aziza Jackson, 6-0, 6-0. Steadysha Penniston and Zareah Byron Dannelle Kennedy outdid Yasmin Sandy and Kyra Baisden, 6-1, 6-1, for the Under-18 Girls Doubles title, while Che Connell and Vova Zhuravlov beat Angello Morgan and Jaiden Bowens, 7-6, 3-6, 10-4, in the Boys’ Under-18 Doubles final. Nathaniel Lawrence was adjudged the Most Improved Player in the championships.

Skerritt, Shallow returned to CWI helm THE TEAM of Ricky Skerritt, St. Kitts and Nevis national, and Dr Kishore Shallow, St. Vincent and the Grenadines national, was re-elected unopposed to the posts of President and Vice President respectively, of Cricket West Indies Inc. (CWI).

Dr. Kishore Shallow Cricket West Indies Vice President.

They will serve for a second two-year term. The re-election process was one of the key items on the agenda of the 22nd Annual General Meeting of CWI, held on Sunday, April 11, 2021, in a virtual session. On being re-elected, Skerritt said, “I am humbled and deeply honoured to be re-elected to serve as CWI President for a second term. I take the responsibility to lead the Board of this prestigious organization, most seriously. We have much unfinished work to do, and we renew our pledge to work untiringly to help achieve sustainable improvement, both on and off the field, for West Indies cricket.” For his part, Dr Shallow said, “I am again grateful for the continued support of the member representatives for Ricky and myself. This re-election is a victory for West Indies

cricket as we continue on the path of growing the game across the region, and achieving good outcomes on all fronts and at all levels.” In addition to the election for President and Vice President, the following persons were duly elected as Member Directors of CWI: Conde Riley and Calvin Hope — Barbados Cricket Association; Bissoondyal Singh and Hilbert Foster - Guyana Cricket Board; Wilford Heaven and Dr Donovan Bennett Jamaica Cricket Association; Enoch Lewis and Leon Rodney Leeward Islands Cricket Board; Azim Bassarath and Arjoon Ramlal Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board; Julian Charles and Dwain Gill — Windward Islands Cricket Board. All of the Territorial Board Member Associations were fully represented at Sunday’s meeting which was a re-

Ricky Skerrit President of Cricket West Indies President. scheduled one from an original date of Sunday 28th March, when the meeting could not be officially convened due to a lack of a quorum occasioned by the absence of representation from Guyana and Barbados. I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2021. 23.

Classifieds

Man reportedly killed by cousin Continued from Backpage. “Persons in Baga were trying to get him but the police get him before them,” said one villager. The Villager said that Solomon was a good guy but his killer was not. “He was a very nice young man but the other one who kill him is a blasted devil,” said the Villager. The alleged killer, now in police custody, is said to be the son of man who was involved in the death of a man by burying him alive, after which he drove the man’s female companion to the

Windward side of the island before she managed to escape. He was arrested and charged but is now a freeman. Another resident recalled an incident in December 2020 when his father administered a beating on Qunta that left him bleeding. Solomon death is reported to be the 10th homicide for the year. Police, meanwhile, are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting death of Dale Hooper, 19 years old labourer of Glen. That incident is said

to have occurred on Friday 9th April at about 9 p.m, in Glen. Hooper’s death, the ninth homicide for the year, marked the second fatal shooting in Glen, within the space of six days. Keon Scott, homicide number 8, was shot dead on Saturday 3rd April. And police are also occupied with investigations into the

circumstances surrounding the shooting incident involving a 50year-old labourer, known as Joby, of Redemption Sharpes. That shooting, police said, occurred on Sunday 11th April, at about 6:45 p.m. at Redemption Sharpes, during which the victim sustained bullet wounds to his right hand and right side of his body.

St. Kitts/Nevis pledge $1m in aid Continued from Page 5. In addition, St. Kitts and Nevis authorities said that through the coordination of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), preparations had begun to ship two containers of needed supplies (food and non-food items) to SVG. The Prime Minister of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, has since reached out to Prime Minister Harris to express gratitude to the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as the citizens and residents for their strong show of solidarity “during this very challenging situation facing us here in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.”

In Loving Memory of

CEDRIC STEPHEN MILLS Sunset 15th April, 2020

MR. CARLTON FRANCIS BAILEY Thursday, 8th April, 2021 Streams of Power Church, Sion Hill Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

CLAUDE WILLIAMS better known as "Tuff" Friday, 9th April, 2021 Kingstown Church of Christ Viewing: 10:30 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

³<RXU /LIH ZDV D Blessing Your Memory a Treasure You are Loved beyond Words and Missed EH\RQG 0HDVXUH ´

Remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, relatives, and friends.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 16,

2021

VOLUME 115, No.15 www.thevincentian.com

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“GET OUT!” WARNS PROFESSOR by DAYLE DA SILVA THE WINDOW allowing for rescue of persons still in the ‘red zone’ is narrowing.

This is the advice given by Professor Richard Robertson, head of The Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC) and the Volcano Monitoring Team presently on the ground in St. Vincent.

Professor Robertson acknowledged that while the gap between activities taking place at the La Soufrière volcano was widening, it was difficult to determine how long this trend was likely to continue, and unless those who are still in the ‘red zone’ make up their minds to leave, officials warn that it may soon be too late. According to the Professor, the The 1902 Soufrière pyroclastic flow ruined the Waterloo Sugar Factory, near Orange Hill, on the eastern slopes of La Soufriere. (Photo by J.C. Wilson, British Museum of Natural History Collection MN-25054)

MAN REPORTEDLY KILLED BY COUSIN A 30-YEAR-OLD MAN from Barrouallie was shot and killed on Wednesday night, by a family member from the same community. The victim, Mandrike Solomon, described as a very friendly and humble man, was allegedly killed by a male cousin after he asked the cousin to desist from touching him since he Dale Hooper - Homicide #9. was touching a dog covered with ash. Mandrike Solomon –Homicide #10. The alleged killer is said to have referred to as ‘Qunta’. Residents in the Central Leeward left but returned armed with a gun, town became upset upon learning of which he used to fatally shoot Solomon’s death and went in search of Continued on Page 23. Solomon. the alleged killer, whom persons

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Professor Richard Robertson made an impassioned plea for persons still in the ‘red zone’ to vacate the area immediately. interval between explosions on April 13 and 14 measured 12 to 13 hours, compared with eight hours between the events that occurred on April 12 and April 13. However, since the evacuation order was made, April 8, several persons have refused to leave as per that order, with some having to be rescued subsequently, as activity at La Soufrière heightened. As of April 14, some 127 persons have been rescued and taken to safety by the Coast Guard, but unless those who are still in the ‘red zone’ make up their minds to leave, officials warn that it may soon be too late. Furthermore, Professor Robertson explained that activities at the volcano had not ended and that it was possible that there may be explosive eruptions like what occurred on April 9. He went on to say that the volcano was operating in a remarkable way, in that it had been providing warning signals throughout. According to Robertson, there was the effusive eruption stage, then there were the first set of explosive eruptions which produced ash, and now there was the occurrence of pyroclastic flows — which were fastmoving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter which flowed along the ground at high speeds. These pyroclastic flows have now affected both the west, as can be seen in the valleys extending from Larikai to Wallibou, and the east, as per the Rabbaca River. As it stands now, the volcano was indicating that it was looking to expand in areas North of Rabacca. However, Professor Robertson said, “It is now going down Rabacca, so there is still time to get out.” “It would really be unfortunate if people are still there (and) after all of this that persons get caught in there. Because if you get caught in a pyroclastic flow, it’s not a nice thing.” Since April 9, the Coast Guard has ventured into the ‘red zone’ on five occasions to take individuals to safety.

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