THE VINCENTIAN PDF-18-12-20

FRIDAY, DECEMBER

18, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.51

Bishop’s murderer jailed Page 4

www.thevincentian.com

World Boss too heavy Page 39

Investigate the prison Page 46

EC$1.50

Ganja reclassified Page 50

The Curator’s House, aglow in white light, allowed for silhouettes of patrons and cut an enticing picture amid the contrasting lights around it.

The open pond took on a whole new aura with its carefully designed re-make for Christmas.

Jimmy is all aglow Page 56

The steps leading to both the open pond and the Doric Temple were transformed with predominantly blue lights and were a popular with patrons.

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2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Message from the Governor General

Peace on earth, Goodwill to all

family, friends and neighbours get together in a spirit of celebration.

This year, however, many loved ones are unable to get home for the festive season because of the many PEACE ON EARTH, restrictions associated GOODWILL TO ALL with travel.

The real significance My fellow Vincentians, of Christmas, however, is Christmas is generally a that it is celebrated in season of joy and warmth remembrance of the birth and a special time when of our Saviour, Jesus HER EXCELLENCY DAME SUSAN D. DOUGAN GCMG, OBE GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Christ, Prince of Peace and the Light of the world. As a nation steeped in the Christian faith, at Christmas, we duly acknowledge God’s gift, His only begotten Son, who was sent into the world to save humankind. This is a true demonstration of the love of God and it behoves us to not only to remember Jesus Christ at Christmas time; but

the true spirit of Christmas ought to be with us always. We have an obligation to obey the call to love our fellowmen at all times in the true spirit of Christmas; we need to demonstrate, always, a spirit of caring and sharing and looking out for the less fortunate among us.

In many ways, this year has been extremely challenging for

Vincentians at home and abroad, but despite these challenges, we have to move forward as a nation with determination and optimism, building on our successes, appreciating the blessings in our personal lives, finding strength in our differences, celebrating our achievements and turning any adversity, disappointment or setback into an opportunity for renewal.

During the Christmas season, we must also acknowledge the government, Church leaders, corporate partners, development partners, nongovernmental groups and all humanitarians among us for their invaluable leadership, guidance, support and contribution to nation building in whatever form it takes.

We all have a duty, no matter our means, to look out for our fellowmen throughout the year.

Fellow Vincentians, let this Christmas season be one of reflection, peace, love, forgiveness and

reconciliation. Let us celebrate the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, but whatever form our celebrations take, please let us stay safe.

As we usher in the New Year, let 2021 be a year of civility, tolerance and respect, where all Vincentians, from all walks of life, are willing to work together with pride and dignity to build a brighter future for us all.

My family and I wish the nation a happy Christmas and a safe, peaceful and prosperous New Year.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 3.

News 3 Nine Mornings 2020 in train THE ANNUAL NINE MORNINGS festivities kicked off under the theme , ‘Celebrating a Unique Vincy Tradition’ on the morning of December 16th , with activities in a number of communities across the state, including Kingstown.

Heritage Square, the now fixed venue in Kingstown for the Nine Morning activities, had begun to give indications, since last week, of things to come, with workmen setting up the stage, electricians installing the requisites for lights and

sound reinforcement, and taxi operators jostling for parking space as their usual allocation of space would have been reduced to accommodate the Nine Mornings programme.

The activity in Kingstown was carried live on at least two radio stations, NBC Radio and STAR FM, and streamed live on Facebook by VC3 Television.

As of midday Wednesday, the event was viewed by approximately twenty thousand Facebook subscribers.

In respect for the

religious element of the tradition of Nine Mornings, activities in Kingstown opened appropriately with a presentation by the Mount Sinai Spiritual Baptist Church, led by Rev. Turtin’s singing of “He come from the Glory…,” in traditional Spiritual Baptist style, including the rhythmic hiccup sounding vocal effects which is similar to Beat Boxing, made popular by ‘Dougie Fresh’ of Hip Hop Fame, who is of Caribbean decent.

The morning activities continued with performances by the Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra among others.

An invitation was

extended to those who had braved the morning chill, to join the Nine Morning Train featuring the music of Starlift Steel Orchestra.

Another segment of note was a Physical Fitness Workout, led by Sean Stanley of Sean Stanley Table tennis Academy. Five persons, including Psychologist Dr. Jozelle Miller, were rewarded for their ‘exercise diligence’.

Activities will continue every morning until December 24.

Sunday 20th December will be an exception.

For those unfamiliar with this unique Vincentian tradition, Nine Mornings is a festivity associated with

the Christmas season.

Nine Mornings before Christmas, Vincentians across the state awake in the early hours of the morning to participate in or simply to be patrons of a range of cultural activities/performances in their respective communities.

In times past, persons, especially those residing in capital Kingstown and its immediate environs, indulged in early morning sea baths, attended dances, went bicycle riding, roller skating, staged impromptu street concerts and ended the morning with a street jump-up to music provided by steelbands.

The origins of the

festivity is still embroiled in debate. It is accepted though, that the origin relates to the ‘novena’ of the Catholic Church, on the nine days before Christmas.

Oral tradition handed down that the ‘workers’ of the Catholic worshipers took the opportunity to converse among themselves and indulge in some light banter and even some revelry.

It is believed that workers joined their Catholic bosses in early morning sea baths and strolls around the capital, bringing a liveliness to and otherwise docile capital Kingstown. (CD)

Nine Nights of Lights: ‘Vincy to the Bone’

by GLORIAH… LAST TUESDAY, December 15, the Nine Nights of Lights Organizing Committee turned on the lights at the Botanical Gardens, for the sixth year in a row.

Amid fears of a coronavirus spread, a reasonable crowd of patrons flocked to the site to enjoy what was on offer.

The opening ceremony heard remarks from a number of persons, who not only welcomed patrons but also put persons’ minds at ease that the activity was a safe one to attend, with health protocols having been established throughout the venue.

Patrons were urged to enjoy the programmes and the occasion.

Mr. Andrew Wilson, Director of the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA), under whose jurisdiction the Gardens falls, told those gathered, “We, indeed, are delighted to host and have persons enjoy the splendor of the Botanical Gardens, more so as the largest

lighted area in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as part of our Christmas and Nine Mornings observances.”

Even as he lauded “the legacy activity” as coming out of the “commemoration activities in 2015 when the 250th anniversary of the SVG Botanical Gardens was celebrated,” he admitted that this year a new and unexpected challenge - the COVID-19 pandemic - created some uncertainty particularly in the very early stages of this year’s planning and preparation.

He stressed that all persons should be guided by the protocols that will be continually promoted during the activities.

Wilson also highlighted that the overall approach to this year’s lighting facilitated a less-impeded flow of pedestrian though the lighted areas.

Mr. Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles, Chairman of the National Nine Mornings Festival Management Committee, committed to support the

The Arabesque Dance Company moved their audience into a reverent silence.

growth of the Nine Nights of Lights aspect of Christmas festivities.

He described the Nine Nights Festival as forming “part of the larger Vincentian Christmas festival Nine Mornings,” and as having contributing to “increasing our cultural presence in the Caribbean as we inch closer to become the Christmas capital of the world.”

L-R: Roland and Lennox Bowman, with their stirring The soca parang repertoire, evoked spontaneous entertainment responses from the audience and awoke some constituted items otherwise sleepy head professionals. were few but significant to an terms of lights in the trees and focused opening night. less on structures so, at the Gardens, The Royal SVG Police Band created you will see nature at its best, lit.” a sense of times passed with melodious And true to her word, when the strains of traditional Christmas carols, lights were turned on, it was clear that to which the patrons responded with the emphasis was on the trees. unprompted appreciation.

The signature areas, e.g. the The Arabesque Dance Company, Curator’s House, the centre walk, the resplendent is their tulle tutus and pond and Doric Temple, however, did glistening tops, gave performances not escape the attention of those that enthralled, as those who had stringing the lights in various shapes gathered to take in the performance and artistic impressions. were transported to a world of It was clear, notwithstanding the reverent silence. emphasis on the tress, that much work The Bowman Brothers — Lennox had gone into the pond area and the and Roland - brought up the rear in spaces above and below it. The fine style delivering a smoothly designer and technical personnel are rendition of their repertoire of to be greatly applauded. originally compositions, that moved It seemed to have been the the spectators into a spontaneous consensus of those who took in last chorus and awoke the videographers.

Tuesday’s activity that the Botanical As for the lighting, Calisha Gardens remains the lighted Solomon, Chairperson of the Nine Christmas spot to visit.

Nights Organizing Committee, told The stage was set for a smooth flow THE Vincentian, “What we did this of the nightly festivities still to come. year is that we extended more in

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Seemingly well planned escape from Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, between December 7 and TO SENIOR Magistrate 10, 2020.

Rickie Burnett, the recent Primus was also escape of two prisoners sentenced to three from Her Majesty’s Prison, months for damaging a Kingstown, seemed to sheet of galvanize valued have been “well planned,” $148 and a sheet of based on the facts plywood valued $153.59. presented in Court on Both items were Monday. damaged when the men The Magistrate’s cut a hole in the roof of a comments came just cell, through which they before sentencing murder made the first step in accused Veron Primus to their escape.

24 months in prison for The sentences are to escaping lawful custody run concurrently. The Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

accused was unrepresented.

Primus, 33, of Vermont, was one of the two inmates who were discovered missing from the Prison on the morning of December 9, 2020. The other was Ulric ‘Chucky’s Hanson of Mayreau, who was, up to press time Wednesday, still warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, nursing a bullet wound to his left leg, reportedly inflicted by police during an

action leading to the men’s recapture on the morning of December 10.

Both men are awaiting High Court trials for murder.

In handing down the sentences on Primus at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, the Senior Magistrate noted that Primus pleaded guilty to the charges at the first available opportunity, for which he would get a one-third reduction on sentence. He also noted

BishopÊs killer jailed

ANWAR JACK, the man who chopped Spiritual Baptist Bishop Ian Enoch to death between August 16 and 17, 2018, was sentenced to 28 years, eight months and three days imprisonment at the High Court Criminal Assizes on Tuesday.

But while a life has been lost, Jack’s life has been torn apart by several acts of sexual abuse by the Bishop, who took advantage of Jack’s dire financial situation, and used his position to sodomize the youngster.

Jack, fed up with the abuse, killed the Bishop.

Jack, now 26, a resident of Georgetown, was a Security Guard. He initially pleaded not guilty to murder, but changed his plea to guilty during a sitting of the Criminal Assizes on November 9, 2020.

In a sterling mitigation plea at the sentencing hearing on Tuesday, Jack’s Attorney Grant Connell told the Court that it all started in 2015 when Jack lost his job, and asked Enoch, who he had met at a bakery, to assist him in getting another job. Enoch invited him to his office, promised to assist him, and made a call to a Security Firm.

During that meeting, Enoch offered Jack a drink. He accepted it but having consumed it, he passed out. On regaining consciousness, Jack discovered that his anus was burning him, and his pants waist was rolled over. He then realized that he was drugged and buggered.

Connell said that from his instructions, Enoch told Jack that, “It was the best sex he ever had, and he would like to have a relationship with him.” But according to Connell, Jack told Enoch, he was not like that.

Enoch subsequently met Jack at various locations, and made several (sexual) advances to him.

Jack, however, tried to avoid him and even changed his phone number.

To his surprise, he received a call from the Bishop.

Connell said his client told the Bishop, “I have not forgotten what you did to me, and I will report this.”

But Enoch told him, “You know who I am? You know who you are? I can afford a lawyer.”

Meanwhile, the job came through and Jack fell under Enoch’ influence. He continued to sexual abuse Jack and even got his friends to do likewise.

During this period, Jack got to understand that Enoch was involved sexually with other men, and was HIV positive.

Connell said there are records before the Court to show that both Jack and Enoch were HIV positive.

According to the lawyer, his client agreed to meet with Enoch at Carib Village, Argyle. Jack had already made up his mind to kill Enoch and had concealed a cutlass in a hut at the Village, prior to the meeting.

They met as agreed at Carib Village and had sex. The Bishop used a condom. After a prolonged session of sex, Jack chopped him to death.

A psychiatric evaluation conducted in 2020 revealed that Jack had bipolar disorder and personality disorder and, as far back as 2018, was treated for major depression disorder.

“This offence is one that cried out for leniency. The loss of a life.

The accused was a relatively young man, and the deceased, a Bishop, who preached from the pulpit, if he had practised what he preached from the pulpit, using the Good Book, he would have been guided by the Sodom and Gomorrah effects,” Connell told the court.

“Bishop Enoch was supposed to pray for him, but instead made him his prey,” the lawyer added.

Connell said his client was sorry for his action, and even

Anwar Jack (left) and Ian Enoch. empathized with the Bishop’s wife and family.

“We are asking this Court to show some mercy on him. We are not trying to trivialize the loss of a life, but Bishop Enoch was not an ordinary man, he abused his position, and did not practise what he preached,” Connell contended.

Connell noted that the Social Inquiry Report described Jack as a good candidate for rehabilitation.

In following the sentencing guidelines, Justice Brian Cottle used 40 years as a starting point and went down.

He noted the aggravating factors in this case were that a bladed weapon was used which Jack had concealed on the scene; multiple wounds were inflicted, and a considerable degree of planning was involved.

Among the mitigating factors, Cottle noted that the accused had no previous convictions.

He also took into consideration that Jack was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and anti-social disorder in 2020, and at the time of the incident, he was being treated for depression. He took the sentence down to 31 years, then deducted two years, three months and 28 days for time spent on remand, arriving at the sentence of 28 years, 8 month and 3 days.

The Judge also made an order for the state to make available whatever medication Jack needs, with no cost to him, and that counselling be provided.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN after Tuesday’s court proceedings Connell said, “I thought the sentencing was harsh given the circumstances. The matter would be appealed.

that the accused appeared to have shown some level of remorse.

But Burnett stressed that Primus had escaped lawful custody from the same prison about 14 months ago, and was sentenced to 16 months in prison in relation to that escape. That penalty was handed down on October 2 last year after Primus had pleaded guilty to the first escape.

“Escaping lawful custody is a serious offence,” Burnett warned.

In relation to the recent one, the Magistrate said, “It appeared that the escape was well planned.”

Primus, with a frail look on his face, remained calm as he stood in the prisoners dock dressed in a white t-shirt, track pants and slippers.

In presenting the facts earlier, Prosecutor Curlene Samuel told the Court that Primus was housed in a cell called Bblock, at Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, and Hanson in ‘Star Class 2’.

There were several other inmates housed in each cell.

Around 5:20 a.m. on December 9, 2020 Corporal Tony Mcfee called to Officer Campbell, and told him to “come and see something.”

Mcfee and Campbell went to ‘Star Class 2’ and noticed there were white sheets extending from the ceiling to the top of the bunk where Hanson slept.

Mcfee pulled the sheets and discovered a hole in the roof of the cell.

That cell is located on the top floor of the building in which the cells are located.

The matter was reported to the Prison Authorities and inquiries were made which revealed that Primus was also not in his cell.

The authorities concluded there and then that the men had escaped. The report was received by Assistant Superintendent Elgin Richards, Head of the Major Crime Unit (MCU).

Following investigations, led by ASP Richards, Primus and Hanson were apprehended at Shadene Farrell’s home at Campden Park, on the

From what he said to the police, Veron Primus may well have been the mastermind behind the recent escape by himself and another murder accused. morning of December 10.

When cautioned, Primus told the police he escaped “to get some attention.” He was taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) where he gave a statement admitting to the offence.

Primus told police officers that, using a ‘nipper’, it took them two days to cut the hole in the roof, and they used the sheets, during the process, as a barricade, so that they would not be seen. He had gone to ‘Star Class 2’ on December 7 and 8, and slept there.

They emerged through the roof around 3am and walked up to the area of the prison next to the Headquarters of the St. Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC), from where they made good their escape via the Mckie’s Hill route, around 5am.

He then called a lady friend who gave him a ride to Lowmans Leeward, and they went to the home of another friend.

Primus is awaiting trial for the murder of Real Estate Agent Charlene Greaves of Dorsetshire Hill. She was alleged to have been stabbed at Arnos Vale in 2015.

Hanson, along with Jerome Ollivierre, also of Mayreau, and Glenville Harry are awaiting trial for the murder of Security Guard Rodney George, 50, of Victoria Village, whose body, with throat slit, was discovered in the GEC Auto Supplies building on the morning of October 10, 2018.

More Court stories on Page 44

V Rising stronger from the feverish ashes of COVID-19

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 7.

Christmas Message from the Prime Minister

byDr. The Honourable RALPH E. GONSALVES Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

HE DEFINING ISSUE of the year 2020, particularly since the month of March, has been, and is, the COVID-19 pandemic and its health, economic, social, and security consequences.

COVID-19 has been, and is, affecting profoundly life, living, and production world-wide and in the Caribbean, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The dire statistics, globally, tell the tale, though unevenly, in sickness and deaths, huge economic contractions, massive job losses, increased poverty and immiseration of people, drastic declines in government revenues and corresponding jumps in fiscal deficits, pain and suffering.

Even in St. Vincent and the Grenadines where, thankfully, we have had no deaths from COVID, no hospitalisations from COVID, and no community spread of the virus, our country has had to face awesome socio-economic challenges at the national, family, and personal levels. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not a proverbial island unto itself; so we have been deeply affected, adversely! Yet, it is a near miracle that our small multi-island nation, amidst all its limitations and weaknesses, has held things together, in relative normalcy and stability, and as a functioning economy, democracy, and society, at an acceptable level of civilised life and living!

In this period, St. Vincent and the Grenadines held competitive, free and fair, general elections, returned the Unity

T

Labour Party (ULP) to its fifth consecutive term in government, and has settled down on the premise, and promise, of Lifting SVG Higher.

Indeed, despite COVID-19 and its awesome consequences hanging over our nation as the metaphoric “sword of Damocles”, we are all determined to rise stronger than ever from COVID’s feverish ashes!

At Christmas 2020, we are ever mindful about our extant condition; we are not innocent of the challenges which are upon us; we have clear, credible ideas, within the frame of a compelling developmental narrative, as to the way forward; we possess a settled conviction that we can all do better than we have done before, and we have the will, including the political will, to do so; and we know, in faith and reason, that OUR REDEEMER, whose holy birth we celebrate at Christmas, LIVES, in, and for, each of us!

I have noted, with much satisfaction, the phenomenal growth and spread of community and other non-governmental groupings devoted, at Christmas 2020, to assisting children, the elderly, and families, particularly those who are indigent or marginalised, or who have suffered severely as a consequence of COVID19. I urge everyone to help one or more of these “bona fide” organisations in doing their commendable work. Of course, you may prefer to assist a family-in-need, directly; please do so if that is your preference.

At Christmas 2020, more than at any other time in recent memory, we must look out for each other. Please do not allow our usual reasons for divisiveness, whether political, religious, social or

personal, to deter us from helping another person, particularly if our circumstances so permit or enable us. In this world, in this nation, everyone is our neighbour. We are enjoined to help our neighbours. This more than any pious moralising will, in my view, achieve much!

Sometime in January 2021, our government will present to Parliament the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure and the Appropriation Bill (“the Budget”) for the upcoming financial year.

There will no doubt be a robust debate, in an out of Parliament, on the issues contained therein; Parliament will determine what is to be done; and the Executive and State Administration will carry out Parliament’s determination. And the democratic debate will continue with truths and falsehoods galore. There

is thus ample time for all that.

However, now, at Christmas 2020, let us do our best to live good with each other; help one another as far as humanly practicable; and let us be peaceful and moderate in all that we do and say.

On behalf of the government, on behalf of the ULP, on behalf of my family, and on my own personal behalf, I wish everyone, including my active and not-so-active political opponents, a wonderful, reflective, enjoyable, and

peaceful Christmas 2020.

And may Almighty God continue to bless each of us and St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole; that is my sincere and fervent prayer!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 9.

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

Prisons, Prison Oficers and their need YES, OUR PRISON SYSTEM and its inherent security measures have again come startlingly into focus.

That, admittedly, should not have been so unnerving, since we have had quite a history of rumblings and ranting, even killings in our prison, especially at Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown.

Moreover, escapes from H.M. Prison are nothing new. Some of us can recall when in the late 1950s, a prisoner who had escaped his gang was discovered hiding in a mango tree in the Anglican Church Yard, where he had been savouring the joy of picking a ripe mango and eating it almost in one action.

The morale of this recall is that prisoners escape their incarceration for a diverse set of reasons. The latest (escape) had an air of ‘human gratification’ about its quest; the next one might not be so ‘humane’.

And it is the uncertainty surrounding any prison escape which creates trepidation among the population, often heightened by the police notice warning that the escapee is dangerous, and advising civilians to be on their guard.

In a normal state of affairs, the population should have no fear of prisoners escaping. The population takes it for granted that those who have committed wrong have been removed from society, to endure a specific period of existence or serve out their lifetime in controlled environments.

A recent albeit cursory, survey of bystanders in Kingstown threw up the overwhelming view that prisons should be about ‘punishing dem criminals.’

That said, the frequency with which this society has had to put up with prison escapes in recent time, brings the whole question of prison security and, by extension, national safety/security into focus.

In immediate response, we are wont to apportion blame for the prison shortcomings, real and perceived, on the prison Officers, with concentration of blame on the Superintendent of Prisons.

They must not escape blame, but to focus the greater blame

on them and them only, shields government personnel whose tardiness should also receive of attention.

And Minister of National Security must not escape blame since it is that office that should be responding to the legitimate requests that the Prisons have been bellowing for decades.

The Minister’s support staff must not be excluded from encouraging what has only boiled over now, after simmering for an inordinate length of time.

Yes, the age old call for increased staff, improvement of physical working conditions, introduction of modern technological security measures, has surfaced with vigour and venom.

Prison is about prisoners as much as it is about prison guards, who, like any military/quasi-military organisation, will have its own rules and regulation.

Sadly, those rules and regulations are more often crafted by ‘civilians’ who possess little empathy for, far less knowledge of what it takes to be a Prison Officer.

This Column, in addition to suggesting that a serious examination of the recruitment process of Prison Officers be undertaken, recommends that a mandatory modern, extensive, even certified training programme be availed to Prison Officers and for those who are likely to be recruited given the dire need to increase the numbers.

And given the fundamental nature of the tasks, any training programme to which they are exposed must be dynamic, and should allow for discussion of issues that are important to them, those over whom they keep guard and the population on the outside.

Knowledge keeps us safe; knowledge keeps us skilled. We cannot ignore our Prison Officers whose terms of reference are predicated on one basic premise: they are to ensure the safety of society from those who have committed wrong and who are likely to continue on this part, within and/or without the Prison walls.

Bridge over troubled waters (A re-print of THIS WEEK as published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 1th December, 2014.)

revolutionizing same. 2015 is a new year, let us really welcome it with a new and refreshing approach to a positive and Godly life. We have the means to accomplish this goal. And all the signs tell us, that we are getting there, despite the many hurdles which constantly dance before our eyes. We can least afford to be dazzled, or be derailed, or bought off. We need to show strength, resilience, consistency and a belief in the collective self. And the goal is ours to be maintained by un-ending humility and divine guidance.

One day, one day, one Conquer Day.

two rounds, driven slowly, around the meeting before the crash, what was the purpose of their scouting WE ARE NOW INTO about?

CHRISTMAS, traditionally Suffice it to say that there the period of peace on the will be doubts left hanging earth and goodwill to all about, that will only be men. solved, if at all, by a General SVG is reputably a Election that returns an NDP Christian nation, a virtue Government. Meanwhile we which has been written into must try and keep that the preamble of our bridge firm and not let things constitution. It behoves us to get out-of-hand. keep it that way, I myself try in many ways notwithstanding the to constitute that bridge. provocations, temptations Take for instance, the and irritations that the flesh current “national crisis”. The is heir to.

Superintendent of Police, in That does not mean that charge of traffic, happens to we shall break away at the be my friend by virtue of his end of the period and make bearing my own names up, as it were, for our The Clare Valley Disaster “Kenneth John”. We met enforced passivity during when I was sent a claim, Christmas time.

We recently suffered a meant for him, for Rather, we should try and man-made disaster at an performing duties in the strive to lengthen the period NDP political meeting at Peace Keeping Force in to embrace our whole lives Clare Valley, which was Grenada 1983. After the ideally, although as human variously attributed, counter-revolution we beings, such aspiration according to the broad became comrades (with a appears to be unduly high. political spectrum and deep capital “c”).

But, we can at least give it a party loyalties, from outright Later, Ralph transferred try and see what happens, murder to innocent accident. him to do duty as the Prime how things pan out.

In the first round, Arnhim Minister’s outrider. I Our county is in the throes Eustace alone stood among realised he was a favourite of of a party-political division. the political leadership of the real Comrade.

We will not here analyse as showing measured maturity So I joked with him, to how we got to this point. and calm responsibility in saying Ralph had favoured What we must acknowledge, holding that we should await him only for his name however, is that it is at its the findings of the police “Kenneth John”, as it pleased lowest ebb ever; that investigative team of him to note that a Kenneth individualism is running riot; “experts” and not jump to John routinely cleared the that the gap between rich hasty conclusions. path of his Prime Ministerial and poor is widening and Other leaders, like the entourage. deepening; that there is now Prime Minister and Julian Then Kenneth John made no sense of a bond of unity, Francis, had ruled that it rapid progress in being made with each man an island was an accident, pure and head of the Traffic unto himself. simple, within 24 hours of Department above my real We must use the inception the occurrence. The friend, the deserving of a New Year as a publication of those remarks, Bertram Cumberbatch who convenient time for a issued from “on high” was went into retirement. national resolution that we most unhelpful, in that it It is not the first time that must do better; we must at added fuel to fire among Kenneth John finds himself any rate inculcate a sense of those who saw it as a signal in the hot seat. But he is community, a spirit of to the investigating team. comforted that in this togetherness, a bond of Now that the team has situation, he is assured of the fellowship as we stop reported that it was largely support of his boss whom he worshiping at the Kingdom of an accident, certainly they loyally adores. self, which somehow reigned unearthed no evidence of a Merry Christmas to Ralph supreme over the last two planned attack, there still and Kenneth. I am unsure of decades or so. remains many unanswered prosperity in the New Year We need to come clean and questions left hanging: if it is when Elections may take throw this incubus off our true as several attendees at place. backs, without overthrowing the meeting attested, that any institution, simply the car in question had made

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10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Letters

Union Island Self Government

FOR QUITE some time now Union Island has Self Government. There is no doubt that the animals are in charge. Perhaps the Cow is the leader of Government; the Sheep is Deputy Leader; the Goat is perhaps Minister of Agriculture; the Pig, Minister of Health and the Dog is in charge of roads. Mosquitoes, Flies, and Land Turtles are Government Backbenchers. The Pink Milli Bug is the leader of the Opposition and Mango Seed Weevil the assistant. The Jack Spaniard is the Speaker of the House but does not seem to wield any influence over the members. Honey Bees occupy the Poor Relief Ministry.

It was not always this way, however. There was a time when Donkey led the government and one feared leader was Old Jack. He was known to kick over people’s water drums after taking his drink. It is reputed that Junior St. Bernard died as a result of a donkey kick.

I know for sure that the Animal Government must have taken a decision to curb the movement of all humans by having them fenced in.

Furthermore, those who are not fenced in must keep their doors closed, as animals are at liberty to move in and drink from toilet bowls. Additionally, any human who wants to grow crops must erect six-foot fences.

I was so distraught one night that I called Prime Minister Mitchell after midnight to complain that animals were jumping my fence. He said that he had just returned from Taiwan in search of help for the country. I replied that I was only seeking to help myself by growing crops.

Since that time, humans have made laws to try to regain control but failed dismally. Around 1993, there was an attempted coup when the Environmental Action Committee took control of the island. All animals were tethered and humans were happy but all Hell broke loose when a donkey was shot and killed. Animals were in an uproar.

The police arrested and perhaps charged the animal killer. Subsequently all donkeys were rounded up and exiled to Canouan and Mayreau.

This is how the Cow seized power and now is in charge. Because some humans cannot grow any crop on land, they have taken refuge in the sea growing sea moss. Undoubtedly, the arrest of the donkey-killer was made known in all the realms of the Kingdom of Animals in Union Island, Animals are in charge!

If you have an issue that you would like to discuss with the Animal Government, you may make an appointment at the Teacher’s House in Badeau, the Union Island Secondary School where many attend, or at the Mary Hutchinson Primary School where most of their offices are located.

Celebrating ChristÊs birth MR. EDITOR, correct me if I am wrong, but don’t we use every opportunity to declare that ours is a Christian society? That we are, in times of good and even in times of bad, a society founded on the belief in God, as we laid down in our Constitution?

It saddens me, however, to observe we

* Were the passengers and crew on all those luxury yachts moored in Villa tested for the coronavirus? * (OR) Did they all arrive with certificates showing that they had recent negative tests? * Were they made to quarantine in an approved hotel for the first five days? * Was that missing key to Veron Primus’ cell ever found? * Is there going to be a proper and independent inquiry into the state of affairs at Her Majesty’s Prison at Kingstown? * If those NDP supporters realise by now that they can’t defeat the ULP by ranting non-stop on Facebook?

Anthony Stewart, PhD

That synthetic track NOW THAT Unity Labour Party government has delivered a synthetic track for our athletes. I supposed all those people who were running off their mouth about a stadium would keep their traps closed.

While I agree that the ULP might have promised a stadium, what we have at Diamond is a beginning and a damn good beginning, something with which we can begin to work.

The athletes now have no excuse about having to train on grass but have to run on synthetic tracts when they compete overseas. And I hope all the coaches who have been opening

their mouths too, would now put their expertise where their big mouth were or are.

I know it will take some time for our athletes to get accustomed to the track. They must be patient and their coaches must also be patient with them.

Thanks to the ULP, we can now look forward to Mr. Michael Ollivierre producing an athlete who can make us proud at the Olympics. He promised to do so, and he is contracted to do so.

So, get cracking Mr. Ollivierre, you have no excuse now.

Dolly

may be a Christian society by Constitution, for purposes of satisfying geo-political and georeligious purposes, but we are far away from being a society of Christians. We — citizens from all strata of society - do not live according to the laws of Christianity as laid down in the Holy Book, the Bible. How then can we proclaim in all truthfulness that we are Christian?

Take for example this time of year which is supposed to lead to the most significant day in the Christian calendar — Christmas Day - the Birth of the Christ Child.

Ask yourself: To what extent do I celebrate this significant birth?

This should be a season of celebrating the Holy Birth of Christ.

But is it?

This is a time when we should all keep in mind the reason Christ became flesh and lived among man. That reason is clear: He became, or was made flesh by his father, for one purpose: TO SAVE US FROM SIN. The true celebration of Christ’s birth is for all of us to do His will; and never forget the wellknown scripture verse, John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

My prayer is that in respecting and fulfilling the true meaning of Christmas, that we will all reflect on our lives and examine ourselves;

that we will acknowledge our faults and make a decision to change and do the will of God. For when we stand up with courage and in the face of persecution and ridicule, and do the will of God, we can feel assured and be encouraged that God is on our side, and, regardless of the laws of man, we are all ultimately answerable to Him. F. Roberts

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 11.

Christmas Message from the Leader of the Opposition

We can make things better

Many times we have heard it said that ‘Christ is the reason for the season’. Yet, far too often, we fail to truly appreciate the beauty and sacred nature of this time of Y DEAR FRIENDS, the year, as we get carried away Christmas Season is with the shopping, the fixing upon us once again— up, the lighting up and the thankfully. I always look food preparations. All good forward to Christmas. I hope things no doubt, but better in you do too. proper measure.

As Christians, we celebrate Let us always make time to the momentous occasion of the celebrate and appreciate the birth of Christ whose coming wonderful gift of salvation into the world brought hope of that the birth of Christ offers salvation and offered us the to each of us, and let us spread chance to do better in our the goodwill that comes with lives. the season.

While we enjoy the customary things of Christmas and the coming New Year, we must also remember the sacrifices made throughout this most unusual and difficult year - 2020.

We are thankful for God’s mercy and grace that have brought us through this year– a time scarred indelibly by the pain and loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues unabated. While we have been spared the worst of the health problems, we

by DR THE HONOURABLE GODWIN FRIDAY Leader of the Opposition and President of the New Democratic Party

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continue to suffer severe economic and social disruption. Let us continue to do all we can to keep one another safe.

Normally, this time of year is filled with joyous activities and much mingling and sharing. For many of us, it is a time to travel and visit family and friends; a time to share old stories and create new experiences with loved ones that over time, would also become treasured memories.

However, the coronavirus has made such things very risky.

We must treasure our loved ones by being careful and safe until this unprecedented threat to life and happiness is finally vanquished. Thank God, relief is on the way in the form of effective vaccines to protect us from the virus. We hope that we will soon put this pandemic behind us and get back to rebuilding our lives and economy! Let us continue to look forward with great anticipation to a new year with renewed hope and determination to overcome all obstacles.

We also just came through a

difficult and divisive general election. A majority of our people voted for the New Democratic Party. However, the ULP was declared to have won more seats and, therefore, formed the government. This has resulted in a crisis of governance, for in a democracy the choice of the majority of the people always matters and is, indeed, paramount. We must, therefore, continue to work for change to ensure that the choice of the majority of the people is honoured, and peace, harmony and good governance are promoted.

Together, we must work to bring to reality the vision of economic prosperity, job creation, improved healthcare, and good governance characterized by transparency and accountability. Also, we must overcome our divisions and foster togetherness as One People and One Nation.

Thank you, my dear people, from the bottom of my heart, for your support throughout the year. I am profoundly grateful for the privilege to

serve you and look forward to your continued support in 2021.

I know that the New Year will bring its challenges, but it will also bring new opportunities for all of us. Let us find those opportunities, embrace them, and use them to make things better for all of us.

I wish you a blessed Christmas and I pray that the future will bring good health, prosperity, and happiness.

From my family to yours, may God bless you always.

V Hoping for change and improvement 14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Christmas Message from the SVG Green Party

by Warrant Officer IVAN O’NEAL BSc (hons), MSc, MBA Leader of SVG Green Party

crime, unemployment and the very weak economy, we have had to deal with the coronavirus (COVID-19) since March.

IFE IN SVG this year has This had been much harder been tougher than normal. to cope with for the many Aside from the longstanding thousands of households that issues of high levels of poverty, are in serious poverty, and

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struggle to get by under normal circumstances. The World Health Organisation advises us to wash our hands properly with soap and water on a regular basis, to reduce our chances of catching and transmitting the virus. This is

difficult to do for poor families living without a mains water supply.

And as we draw nearer to the end of yet another year, we note that Vincentians’ health has been neglected by the ULP regime for yet another year. If we extend this, we can say that for over 10 years, the general health of Vincentians, especially the poor, has been getting worse because of the underinvestment by the ULP regime in the health services and hospitals in SVG. For over a decade, only about $136 a year per person has been spent on health services. This is a disgrace.

Gonsalves’ poor leadership has caused SVG to operate virtually as a failed state and the incompetent financial management has mashed up SVG. The reliance on begging and borrowing has pushed the SVG economy into a dark hole and made Vincentians’ health suffer.

Modern countries with modern economies invest heavily in health and social support. Forwardthinking leaders, those with vision,

realise that a healthy nation is a productive nation. A person cannot reach their full potential and be at their most productive if they have bad health.

A stable income is needed for good health, so that people can buy the food their households need. All around the country, we have seen teams of people cutting grass by the road. These people will have a bit of money in their pockets for Christmas, but it is not enough to provide for them only at Christmas time. Our people must eat all year round.

SVG needs a change and a stronger economy, so that people can be employed all year round. People cannot be healthy all year round if they are employed only at Christmas time. It is terrible how the ULP regime mistreats the people of SVG. Too many Vincentians are dying young of preventable illnesses, some of which are a result of living in extreme poverty. Let us hope that the New Year brings the change that our country desperately needs. The health of our people and the nation needs this boost.

Merry Christmas and may God bless us all.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 15.

Views

Celebrating Christmas

“Christmas is the season of joy, of gift-giving, and of families united.” Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993) – American minister and author who is best known for his best-selling book The Power of Positive Thinking.

THERE ARE SOME CHRISTIAN denominations that do not celebrate Christmas. Some argue that the exact day when Jesus Christ of Nazareth was born was never known and cannot be confirmed. Others argue that the early Christmas celebrations had their origin in pagan practices. However, regardless of the reasons presented for nonrecognition of Christmas Day (25th December), there is value in recognizing the fact that Jesus was born of a virgin and that He came to save mankind.

The biblical passage in Luke chapter two provides a vivid description of the events surrounding the angel’s visit to the shepherds who were caring for their sheep at Jerusalem, and received the good news that Jesus Christ was born.

They were understandably frightened by the event. However, as so often happened when an angel appeared to humankind, the calming words “fear not” are pronounced early in the conversation. This was also the case when the angel appeared to Elizabeth, Mary’s cousin, in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke. On that occasion, the angel’s announcement was that she, although advanced in age, would give birth to a son who should be named “John”. We now know him as John the Baptist.

Inspired by God, Luke periodically reminds us that Jesus’ coming to the earth was for all mankind — not merely for the Jews. Whosoever will may come to Him for salvation.

Gender, class, profession, ethnicity, nationality, skin pigmentation, and level of education will not matter.

Whosoever will may come. The latter segments of Luke chapter 2 capture the records of Simeon’s pronouncement that Jesus has brought salvation to all people — the Jews and the Gentiles (versus 25-32).

He is the Messiah for the whole world. Whosoever will may come!

At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. There were many prophesies of His coming from heaven to save mankind. The prophet Isaiah, speaking and writing centuries before the event, told of His coming (see Isaiah 9:7 and Isaiah 53:3). Similarly, the prophet Micah pronounced that our Lord would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Jesus Christ came to die for mankind. It is through his death and resurrection that we (Jews and Gentiles) have the hope and assurance of salvation.

Luke’s account of the risen Christ tells of two disciples traveling on the Emmaus road and their encounter with the resurrected Christ. They were reminded, and so are we, that “repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47).

This Christmas season is as good a time as any to reflect on the reasons why we celebrate Christmas. We celebrate the coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and His coming to save all people — not just Israel.

This is good news. It is news that we

should share with others.

We have a responsibility, an honour, and a great privilege to spread these cheerful tidings far and wide. These are certainly glad tidings of great joy.

Isaac Watts (1674-1748), the English Christian minister and hymn writer, captured the joy of Christmas so well when he penned the words to this now popular Christmas carol, “Joy to the World”. History records that he wrote this hymn after reading Psalms 96 and 98. The powerful lyrics in this hymn, which was first published in 1719, remind us that Jesus Christ of Nazareth has come.

The carol further reminds us that, because of His coming, all the world should rejoice.

Another prolific hymn writer, Charles Wesley (1707-1788), captured the glorious event of the angel’s message to the shepherds when he penned the words to the Christmas carol, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”.

The words remind us that Jesus came to bring peace and mercy to this sinful world. Wesley’s words, written hundreds of years ago, remind us that all nations should be joyful in proclaiming this wonderful news that Christ is born in Bethlehem. We are invited to join with the angelic hosts in proclaiming His coming.

As we contemplate the celebration of Christmas, this is as good a time as any for each of us to pause long enough to reflect on the relationship that we have with this Jesus of Nazareth. Do we believe that He came to save mankind; to have us reconciled to God? Are we living in a manner that reflects this conviction?

Is there more that you and I can be doing to portray our appreciation for His gift of salvation? There are so many questions that will emerge when we pause to think of the real reason for the Christmas season.

While we have no evidence of the exact day of His birth, there is nothing inherently wrong in setting aside 25th December to celebrate His glorious birth. Jesus Christ came.

Our Saviour suffered and died to save us from the penalty of sin. He paid the debt that we could not pay. Jesus Christ rose from the dead as He said He will. He has gone to prepare a place for those who believe in Him. And He will come again as He promised.

As we prepare to celebrate His birth we will remember His purpose/mission for coming. He brought joy for all people … including everyone reading this essay. But we have to choose. He has given us the free will to decide whether we will accept or reject His salvation; His priceless gift of spending eternity with Him. We choose. We decide. The choice is ours. There is joy unspeakable awaiting all who will receive Him as Saviour … regardless of our sinful past or how good we may perceive ourselves to be. He came to bring peace and joy for all people.

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

The second trial of justice ‘We must investigate and interrogate our body of laws to determine whether our system represents rule by law or the rule of law.’ Justice Peter Jamadar, Caribbean Court of Justice.

make bail spent more time on remand than they might have spent in jail, if they were convicted. Others could not leave the state or engaged in other activities such as travel because their travel documents were confiscated while they awaited their day in Court.

And then, when magistrate Burnette returned, the entire system was turned upside down as the COVID-19, pandemic took hold. Cases were adjourned, and a backlog ensued. Even now, as things ease back to normal, the problem persists as bailiffs all too often, fail to serve summons that will result in parties appearing in court. Those who follow Parliament may remember Opposition senator Israel Bruce asking a question about the failure of service in the magistrate court, and pleaded with the legislature to allow for private service. This suggestion met with a dodgy, stonewalling response from PM Gonsalves.

The problem continues and is getting worse. Magistrate Burnette constantly complains about the lack of service of summons by bailiffs, all to no avail.

Evidently, the generalized inconvenience to the public fails to strike a nerve with those in authority.

But the government knows where to place emphasis. Even when magistrate Burnette was called up for higher service as a Master, one set of cases were heard every week. All traffic offences were shifted to the Serious Offences Court where motorists were compelled to pay hundreds of dollars for minor traffic offences. ‘Caesar’ remains unprepared to wait for his ‘pound of poor people’s flesh.’

And then there is the charade which passes for police evidence during very serious trials in the criminal court. It was most refreshing last week to hear a senior prosecutor describe a police officer as a “dastardly liar.” Police officers will take the stand and smugly recite word for word statements that run for 5 and 6 pages. They smile with contentment at their accomplishment and when cross-examined, quite often they are made into silly putty. They routinely lie to judge and jury. In the end, their credibility is in tatters. Still, during summation, there is never a judge’s caution which calls on the jury to recall the police evidence and pay attention to his or her credibility, and thus the reliability of the evidence tendered.

Not so with a criminal defendants though. Some judges never fail to tell the jury that when a lawyer puts his client’s case to the witnesses then fail to testify, an adverse inference can be drawn. Never mind the defendant has a constitutionally protected right to silence.

Or we may consider the fact that as we approach the third decade of the 21 century, there is still no Legal Aid Service in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Criminal defendants, facing serious charges that could land them in prison for decades, go unrepresented against experienced prosecutors. Worse, there is little or no assistance from the bench to protect the defendant against self-incrimination.

The increasing frequency with which prisoners are diagnosed with serious mental health issues should surprise no one. Calypsonian Shadow did say poverty is a crime. We fear truth may soon become an offence.

WE HAVE SAID IT BEFORE, and this is as good a time as any to repeat, had it not been for the vigilance of the Teachers Union and the Public Service Union, the courageous and brilliant judges in the civil division of our court and erudite, legal heavyweights who occupy the benches of the Court of Appeal, St Vincent and the Grenadines would have been on the lower rung of Dante’s inferno when it comes to due process and the rule of law.

If you fail to comprehend the gravity of the forgoing point reflect on the fact that Leon ‘Bigger Bigs’ Samuel, Elvis Daniel, Kenroy Johnson, Addison Thomas, Otto Sam and Jamali Whyte would have been economically assassinated by the Ralph Gonsalves administration for having the ‘balls’ to oppose, protest and contest policies, join with others to work for a change of government or stand for their right to make a decent living.

To save their jobs, secure their pensions and gratuity, protect their reputation as well as live freely and decently, they had to seek the protection of the law courts. And even now, years after some decisions, Legal Affairs Minister, Ralph Gonsalves, has refused to put the machinery in place to satisfy judgments, as well as pay cost and interest.

Last Wednesday, following the brilliant legal work spearheaded by QC Stanley Stalky John, his son Akin, with yours truly as a tag-along, Bigger Bigs Samuel scored yet another victory in his long battle against the vindictive policies of the PM Gonsalves and his bureaucratic minions. It was painful to watch ‘Bigger’ wipe tears from his eyes as Justice Henry dismissed the government’s applications to appeal an earlier decision and stay the proceedings.

The game is up, but because Gonsalves has morphed from luminary lawyer into a political, legal and wrongheaded ideologue, he continues to waste hundreds of thousands of taxpayers’ money in pursuit of one hopeless, frivolous and vexatious political witch hunt after another. If the payments were coming out of Gonsalves’ fortune, he would never have brought these actions. Moreover, he will certainly not allow a $500,000 judgment to rack up interest of more than $500,000 and counting.

Cost follows the ‘Bigger Bigs’ decision. It is we the people who would be made to pay. Somebody, anybody, everybody, beginning with some brave soul in the leadership of the ULP, needs to whisper in Gonsalves’ ears that the game is up. He must finally resolve that in a democracy all the people will never support him, even as you self-decorate with general’s stripes and take on the vainglorious title of ‘World Boss.’

The utter disregard shown to the administration of justice offers a clear indication of the government’s priorities.

Over the last two years, some serious injustices have befallen ordinary folks in the Kingstown Magistrate Court. First, Senior Magistrate Ricky Burnette was made a Master in the civil division, and for the entire duration of that stint, the court remained locked.

The government refused to hire a temporary magistrate. As a consequence, the lives of hundreds of persons were placed on hold. Some Send comments, criticisms & people who were arrested and could not suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

V Paladin on new venture 16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

SAFETY and security at home and/or in the workplace are of paramount importance.

Paladin SVG Inc. is committed to ensuring same and on December 15, the company officially

unveiled the next phase in such services, with the opening of its safety and security showroom and outlet, located on Sharpe Street, Kingstown.

Paladin now boast of being able to offer customers the latest in surveillance technology, to

complement the services already being offered.

“Five years later, here we are and we have remained true to our cause, true to our vision which is to build partnerships to build a safer world,” Amoy Munroe, said.

According to Amoy Munroe, Director of Paladin SVG Inc., over the years the company has been partnering with Just a sample of various groups and some of the organizations towards equipment Paladin raising the awareness will use in about the need for safety. providing its “Now we have our security and safety products [and] we are service. happy to say that we are now able to contribute more to the safety and security of our nation,” Munroe said.

According to Theodore Browne Jr, Director, the company looks for functionality and delivering what is required to the customers, so getting into the sale of surveillance was something that he welcomed.

Paladin has partnered with Vision, one of the top surveillance companies in the world and one of the leading innovators in surveillance technology in the world.

Amoy Munroe – Director of Paladin SVG Inc. assured that the company had positioned itself to offer more and better services.

Theodore Browne Jr.Director of Paladin SVG Inc., highlighted his company’s partnership with Vision, a world leader in the field of surveillance equipment and services.

Since the onset of the coronavirus earlier this year, Vision has created a camera that measures the body temperature of the persons in a particular area.

“So they have the innovation to make the home and work environment a safe one,” Browne said.

Because of its partnership with Vision, Paladin now specializes in IP ready cameras and other surveillance equipment, which allow customers to operate them remotely.

The varied range of products include

thermographic solutions, access control systems, alarm systems, IP camera systems and Closed-Circuit TV cameras.

Browne noted that the company was also bringing exceptional engineering capabilities and experiences in the field to the customer.

And in January, the company expects to expand even further with the setting up of a Control Centre, to allow for the constant monitoring of homes while clients are away.

(DD)

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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Training

Some of the 225 persons who received Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ).

Government cannot employ everybody KENROY QUESTELLES, National Qualifications Department (NQD) Director, told the most recent recipients of Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ), that the government cannot find jobs for all of them.

He urged then to take the initiative to seek out jobs or Kenroy Questelles, create jobs for National Qualifications themselves, using the Department (NQD) skills and knowledge Director, put the reality that they would have of the job market gained towards these squarely in front of the ends. graduates.

His caution and urging came as he addressed some 225 persons who received Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ) during a Ceremony for Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 Trainees of the Youth and Adults Training for Employment (YATE) on Friday 4th, at the Russell’s Auditorium in Stoney Grounds.

And as he congratulated the graduates for sticking to the task to obtain this portable CVQ certificate, he told them that he hoped, “you will further enhance your skills and strive for higher levels of qualification so that you can become more competitive in the labour market.”

He added, “The more you develop is the more competitive you will become and be able to contribute more to the economy of SVG.” Questelles posited that the NQD “serves as the focal point for several TVET projects in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

These included the Youth and Adult Training for Employment (YATE), the Skills for Youth Employment (SkYE) and the ANEW (Another Nexis in Education for Workforce Development).

The YATE programme is funded under a World Bank loan scheme, The Director revealed that he was pleased with the accomplishments of the NQD/SSDA and TVET System over the past decade.

“Successes ranged from achieving CVQ granting status in March 2016 and the granting of over 1,100 CVQs and more than 120 NVQs in about 20 vocational areas at levels 1 to 3,” he said.

A Monitoring and Evaluation process is on track to be completed in December 2020.

Minister of Education and Reconciliation, Curtis King congratulated the graduates who also took in a Motivational Speech from Darron Andrews, Cultural Ambassador.

The YATE programme is funded under a loan from the World Bank and includes US$3.8 million for the TVET component, earmarked to train over 1,000 persons between the age of 17 and 45.

Training is conducted at the Georgetown, Kingstown, Campden Park and Barrouallie Technical Institutes and at some private facilities.

(KH)

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22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The plight of two Windrush emigrees

Nancy Hunte (right) and her daughter Gretel Hunte have had their UK pensions frozen at amounts far less than what is their entitlement.

EVEN AS BRITAIN announced that redress is forthcoming for the persons of the Windrush generation of Caribbean migrants who became victims of a government clampdown on them, stories abound about the condition in which some of these victims have found themselves.

John J Duffy Chairman, International Consortium of British Pensioners, who has been tracking the plight of these victims, told the story, recently, about two Antigua nationals.

Duffy wrote that Nancy Hunte, born in

Antigua in 1931, in 1958 took advantage of the U.K. government’s invitation to British citizens living in the Caribbean, to come to Britain to fill jobs being created by the expanding economy.

Nancy, Duffy said, left her three daughters and their father behind in Antigua, and like many Antiguans, “landed up in Leicester.”

She soon found employment and after a year her husband joined her. The girls joined their parents several years later.

Nancy, according to

Duffy, “never stopped working… For a period she worked for the NHS at Leicester’s General Hospital.”

In 1991, at the age of 60 and after working for 33 years, Nancy retired and was entitled to a pension which she duly claimed.

When in 1993 Nancy and her husband returned to Antigua, her pension was frozen at GB£39.33 (EC$142) per week.

Nancy now suffers from dementia and is unable to understand that her pension has been frozen from the

time she moved back to Antigua, Duffy explained.

Had she remained in the UK, Nancy would have been receiving about GB£160 (EC$577) per week.

Nancy’s husband died in 2008. She now lives with her daughter, Gretel Hunte, in Antigua.

Gretel, Duffy reports, “is Nancy’s full time carer and needs Nancy’s British pension to feed

and clothe her mother.

The pittance she receives from the U.K. government nowhere near meets her costs.”

Worse, Gretel Hunte, like her mother, is now a frozen pensioner.

In February 2020, Gretel Hunte contacted the International Consortium of British Pensioners (ICBP) to ask

for help with obtaining her pension.

Of course, like her mother, when Gretel receives her pension, it will be the most she will receive for the rest her life unless the U.K. government reverses its iniquitous policy of frozen pensions. (See accompanying article.)

(Source: Mr. John Duffy)

Windrush scandal: UK to pay more BRITAIN ON MONDAY announced an overhaul of the compensation scheme for victims of its clampdown on the “Windrush” generation of immigrants, with increased and faster payouts.

Home Secretary Priti Patel and Bishop Derek Webley, co-chairs of the cross-government working group on Windrush, wrote in The Times they recognised the need to “go further and faster to help those who need it” following complaints about the scheme.

In 2017, the Windrush scandal caused uproar after it emerged that a generation of Britons of Caribbean origin who moved to the UK legally between 1948 and the early 1970s had been wrongly detained or deported as illegal immigrants.

Under the changes, the minimum payment for victims will be raised from £250 to £10,000 (US$335 to US$13,400), while the maximum payment will rise from £10,000 to £100,000.

The plans will also include “options for higher awards in exceptional circumstances”.

So far, the compensation scheme has paid out more than £2 million and offered £1 million more.

But the working group said it needed to go further to address the damage done to those they said had been “so badly let down”.

“We want these changes to make a real difference to people’s lives, and urge everyone who may have been affected to apply,” Patel and Webley wrote.

“We hope these changes will go some way to ease their lives, and enable them to move forward with hope and determination,” they added.

The M.V. Empire Windrush – one of the ships that brought workers from the English-speaking Caribbean islands, to fill a labour shortage in post-World War 11 Britain. (Source: pinterest.com) Last month, a probe by the UK’s Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) found the government broke the law with its hardline immigration policy and characterised the deportations as a “shameful stain”.

The EHRC lambasted the “hostile environment” policy against the Windrush generation, introduced in 2012 by then home secretary Theresa May, who went on to become prime minister.

The Empire Windrush was one of the ships that brought workers from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and other islands, to help fill post-war UK labour shortages.

Many of those caught up in the clampdown ultimately lost homes and jobs and were denied access to healthcare and benefits. (Source: AFP)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 23.

Message from the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies SVG District

The Little Town of Bethlehem

of the Nativity in Bethlehem.

Writing to the children of his congregation, he said of that first visit: “I remember especially on Christmas O Little Town of Bethlehem” is a Eve, when I was standing in the old popular Christmas carol that is sung church in Bethlehem, close to the spot every year throughout the Christmas where Jesus was born, when the whole season. The question is, what is the church was ringing hour after hour significance of this well-known carol and with the splendid hymns of praise to how relevant is it in our day?

God, how again and again it seemed as Phillip Brooks, a minister of Holy if I could hear voices I knew well, Trinity Church, wrote that song in telling each other of the ‘wonderful 1825. He was a beloved and respected night’ of the Savior’s birth.” evangelist. After serving several What came from his pen was a Episcopal churches in Philadelphia Christmas carol that has lived to and Boston, he was appointed Bishop become a worldwide favourite: of that area.

“O little town of Bethlehem, In December 1865, Phillips Brooks How still we see thee lie. travelled to the Holy Land. The Above thy deep and dreamless sleep itinerary included a horseback ride The silent stars go by.” from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Within the beauty of “O Little Town Christmas Eve. Back then, it indeed of Bethlehem” is one of God’s promises was a small village, far removed from from the prophet Micah: “Bethlehem the bustling city it would later become. Ephrathah, you are one of the little By nightfall, he was in the field where towns of Judah, but from you, I will the shepherds had heard the angelic bring a ruler for Israel, whose family announcement. Then he attended the line goes back to ancient times Micah Christmas Eve service at the Church 5:2.”

by BISHOP STEPHEN OLLIVIERRE Presiding Bishop of St. Vincent and the Grenadines District

“

Why was Jesus born in the farm village rather than the city where the wealthy and royalty lived? Jesus’ birthplace mentioned in prophecy was Bethlehem. However, there were several places called Bethlehem, so the prophet had to specify that it was Bethlehem Ephrathah. This same place was also the birthplace of Israel’s great king, David.

Is this significant? Yes, it was!

Jesus Christ would come to earth to die for the sins of humanity. He loved us so dearly that He came to bring us back in right relationship with His father, God, born in Bethlehem prophesied by the prophets.

He came to this earth because He loved us, John 3:16.

Why not receive Him in your life if you have not done so already?

The song ended with an evangelistic plea to allow Jesus Christ to enter in:

“O Holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray.

Cast out our sin, and enter in, Be born in us today.

We hear the Christmas angels, The great glad tidings tell.

Oh come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel!”

V Union wants answers from CXC

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 25.

Regional

CONCERN has been expressed about reports that there are students who have not requested reviews, but have received improved grade amendments while students who have made review requests are receiving grades that demonstrate no change at all in their original CXC grades.

The concern was made known by President of the Barbados Secondary School Teachers Union (BSTU) MaryAnne Redman last week Thursday, while speaking during an online press conference held by the Caribbean Coalition for CXC 2020.

Redman also said teachers want to know who reviewed the School Based Assessments (SBAs), and whether they are the same teachers who originally corrected them.

“We want to know, if that is the case, what systems were put in place to ensure that any markers did not re-

examine or review the same paper that he or she might have originally marked.

The union president also indicated that teachers are concerned about their professional image and the perception created by the statements emanating from CXC, and the image that their students now have of them as capable teachers in the system.

She suggested that CXC has shifted any culpability away from the Council, and charged that its statements “demonized” all teachers in the region who operationalize CXCs syllabi to prepare students for their exit examinations.

The Council, in the process, has actually demeaned and belittled the profession by casting aspersions on the professionalism, integrity, honesty and capability of the region’s teachers, who have all been accused of awarding

grades to students that do not accurately reflect the effort of the student, Redman said.

As far as the Union was concern, there was still no indication with respect to “… how many SBAs were actually second-marked and to what extent then did this affect the final outcome of the awarding of grades to those SBAs. The BSTU President also highlighted that in the past, persons correcting exams had to be teachers equipped with a no less than two years’ teaching experience in the subject at the examination level.

However, Redman said this criterion has since changed and now the requirement is for persons with familiarity in the subject area and some exposure to the syllabus content.

“To what extent then, does the quality of the persons being hired by CXC reflect the disparity in grades

Mary-Anne Redman, President of the Barbados Secondary School Teachers Union (BSTU). (Photo Credit: barbadosadvocate.com) between the original teacher marker and the moderator this year?”

(Source: Barbados Today)

LIAT cleared to enter Barbados: Receives caution THE ANTIGUA News Room online news service reported Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne as saying on Tuesday that that permission has been granted to LIAT to fly to Barbados.

This comes after protracted discussion between Antigua and Barbados, and Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, after LIAT had been refused permission to schedule flights into those countries, and five other destinations, beginning November 30.

There has been no indication of a response, one way or the other, from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, up to press time, Wednesday.

Notwithstanding PM Browne effort to get LIAT ‘flying again, a cautionary outreach to the Prime Minister has come from the former head of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority, Gatesworth James.

Speaking on Observer Radio’s Big Issues on Sunday after Prime Minister Gaston Browne had accused St Vincent and the Grenadines and Barbados of discriminating against LIAT, James called on LIAT officials to ensure that they “dot their I’s and cross their T’s” as efforts continue to restore the carrier.

LIAT may be ready to resume flying but the carrier has received a cautionary but polite bit of advice from Gatesworth James, Aviation Consultant (inset). “… It (air travel industry) is sophisticated and highly regulatory, and it is so because of the kind of services and products that we are carrying,” he advised. “You don’t leave anything unturned,” James said.

James contended that the carrier should have had everything in place before flights were scheduled.

“I cannot see why this matter occurred so early in the age of this new LIAT,” he said.

However, the aviation consultant said the issues at hand are easy fixes and he is encouraged the carrier to conduct business with professionalism, since that will help the public regain confidence in the carrier. (Sources: ANR, CMC)

V Thankfulness in difficult times 26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Message from the Seventh Day Adventists

by PASTOR DERMOTH BAPTISTE President, SVG Mission of SDA

that we find it in our hearts to praise God for His marvelous condescension into human space, to show us the BELIEVE it goes without amazing love of the Father. saying, that for most of We can raise our us, this year, 2020 will ‘Ebenezer’ for His grace go down in history as one that saves us, His hand of the most challenging, that guides us, His food uncertain and that sustains us and His unpredictable periods in protection that surrounds our existence. The us. unsolicited intervention of The fact that we are the Corona Pandemic has alive today is not because cast a dark shadow on of the alarm clock that lives, homes, communities wakes us up every and countries around the morning, neither is it world. As a result, internal because of our good turmoil, broken promises, deeds or our hard work. unfulfilled expectations, We are alive today job losses, scarcity of food, because of the goodness reduced income and lack of God and His tender of other resources can mercies which are new darken the joys and every morning. dampen the spirit this Sometimes in difficult Advent season. Regardless times we may not feel of our circumstances and like being thankful, but irrespective of our it is when we are down conditions, it is incumbent and out that we need to

I

fight against feelings, push against the crowd and, like the woman with the issue of blood, reach out in faith and touch the hem of His garment.

‘Now, today’ is always the right time to be thankful to Almighty God for His goodness and mercy that follow us all the days of our lives.

Gratitude should never be dependent on our situation, but should ever rely on the One who changes not, who created us for His own glory and puts eternity in our hearts. So if you find yourselves this Christmas battling with loneliness, betrayal, despondency or depression which may be crushing you to the core, now is the time to transfer those negative emotions on Jesus, the burden bearer and

become more intentional about praise and thanksgiving.

The COVID-19 may very well be the great game changer of the 21st century, threatening our very survival, even as vaccines are being developed and rolled out to mitigate against this existential threat. We give God thanks that SVG is still one of the low-risked countries in the world, for which we must be appreciative to the Government and Health authorities for their management so far.

As we celebrate another Christmas and stand on the horizon of a New Year, let us not become overwhelmed with feelings of insecurity, inadequacy, powerlessness and selfdoubt. Rather, let’s trust our lives and our future

in the hands of our loving, caring, compassionate Savior who condescended from the realms of Glory to rescue us from eternal death, damnation and destruction. The story of Christmas reminds us that we are not defined by positions, possessions or pestilences; rather we are defined by the infinite love of God who bids us come unto Him and find salvation fully and completely.

Corona, dengue or death do not have the final say in our existence; God does! I therefore encourage everyone this season to choose faith over fear, prayer over

pain, praise over panic, assurance over anxiety, worship over worry and hope over hopelessness.

On behalf of the Seventhday Adventist Church, I wish every Vincentian at home or in the diaspora a peaceful, quiet and reflective Christmas holiday and a Spiritfilled, prosperous and productive New Year.

May the blessings of Almighty God rest upon you, your family, home and community!

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32. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Poetry

Caribbean Civilization

TELL MR. GONSALVES There isn’t such a thing As a Caribbean Civilization.

What we have is the influence of America cultural imperialism, British colonization, French domination, And Spanish presence Dictating to the people of African origin To follow the model And construct of the colonizers.

The visible eyes can see The Cobblestone Inn French Houses and Roman Catholics Cathedral Built by Pirates and Buccaneers!!!!

Anything that was associated with Africa They stamped it out Labeling it Obeah Witch craft Black magic Voodoo Juju.

Do you remember the British authorities: ‘Beat the Spiritual Baptists; Terrorize the Dread Rasta’ Do you remember the colonial authorities: ‘Fight black power!’

Yes, they made the Africans dependable beggars Looking to Massa For food Clothing And Shelter.

Do you remember they banned The literature of the UNIA!

Religiously We were dogmatized to believe God is White.

They built churches and schools To make the African into an indoctrinated fool!

Tell Mr. Gonsalves Stop the bag of noise.

There isn’t such a thing as a Caribbean Civilization!

What we have Is the persuasion of European Domination; Europeanizing the Africans Indians and Caribs!

Educationally, they nurtured Eugenia Charles Tom Adam Milton Cato Eric Gary and Vere Bird to keep the submissive “Negro” docile!

Culturally

Do you remember they banned those progressive Books Labeling them subversive literature?

Tell Mr. Gonsalves; Don’t insult my intelligence!

Carden A. Michael St. Vincent and the Grenadines 12/4/2020

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34. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The weight of the world – Boss too heavy for the SVG stage

SOME YEARS AGO, I tried to draw our attention to the presence of a “sociopolitical virus” which had been in evidence in the pervasive indifference of our citizens, to circumstances around them by which they have been negatively impacted and which have been fostering our being regarded as a “wutless community” lacking pride and decency. I named that virus the “zouka zouga” virus.

And it seems as though it is still plaguing us today. Several months ago, I drew attention to the conditions which have been allowed to persist at the back of the properties which house the renowned and valuable Girls’ High School and the St. Vincent Grammar School. Yet today the situation, includes the stench affecting the users of the road there including a large preschool which operates in the neighbourhood. That is how we express our love for our children! Do we expect them not to be negatively affected if they grow up in that environment?

Nothing arises from a

visit

Just prior to the last election season, I appealed to Mr. Prince, the then Minister of Education. We visited the area together and I was able to draw his attention to the conditions I had been complaining about, but the issue has not yet been seriously addressed.

So a few weeks ago, I spoke to some gentlemen who had had their secondary education at the very St. Vincent Grammar School, and they have over the last several decades enjoyed prominent profiles in our community. They promised to use their influence but there has been still no addressing of the situation and I have had no word on the matter from them since.

They are well connected to the administration, so I must wonder if I am now regarded as officious.

I consider that as evidence that the debilitating “zouka zouga virus” is still affecting us!

That UN Chair, “World Boss” et al It is my view that the

greater the degree of education and personal development of a citizen, the greater the responsibility on him, to endeavor to ensure the development of his society, in order to facilitate the enhancement of the wellbeing of that society.

Those who have the light of education must lead the way!

This indifference by our better educated citizens is disgraceful and they ought to be made aware that some, no, many of the violent upheavals which are taking place all over the world have had origin in the indifference to the injustices and neglect that sections of those societies had been enduring for decades. In recent months, we have been lauding ourselves on having become the smallest nation ever, to have achieved the distinction of being a member of the Security Council of the United Nations. — a status to be enjoyed for two years.

And in November we SVG, were the Chair of the Security Council of the United Nations.

Do we really think that the other members

of that Council who had visited us, would have been impressed, that we were a serious people, after they had seen the pervasive neglect of our capital, with grass growing in the drains from Sharpe Street to the gate of the cemetery, a few feet from the wall of the main hospital in our city Kingstown, the seat of our government?

It would be interesting to hear what the agenda of the UN Security Council was during the period when SVG held the Chair and what positions we took, in relation to the addressing of issues to bring relief to some disadvantaged sector in the world. Can we really be an advocate for Justice worldwide, when our present administrators have been perennially scoffing at the ruling of our Courts of Justice, relative to acquisition of Marcus De Freitas’ property? Under such stresses, violence is difficult to contain!

Is that how a “world boss” stamps his authority? If that is the nature of a world boss, to use the authority given him to be Prime Minister, to ride, ride rough shod on law

abiding citizens, then we in St. Vincent do not need a “world boss”. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves should not need to be reminded, that in 2001, he promised to seriously address our needs in the agriculture sector, including the serious maintenance of our Feeder roads which had been neglected for some years by the previous administration. On the strength of those promises, the farming community gave Gonsalves and the ULP strong support.

Irrefutably, they have proven themselves traitors to those promises and the evidence is wellspread. Our roads are now in the worst condition they have ever been in, and their dismantling of the ‘Banana Growers Association’, the largest farmers’ organization in the land, which was over fifty years old, economically ruined six thousand farmers and 20,000 workers.

The repair work To begin to repair the damage they have done to this agriculture based economy of ours, Dr.

Ralph Gonsalves and his team will have to come up with a programme to employ at least thirty thousand people who will be able to earn one billion dollars over the next ten years. When one considers that the ULP can hardly be expected to have any authority after the end of this their fifth term, the people’s confidence in them is not assured.

In summary Dr. Gonsalves and his team have failed the people of SVG who have seen a distinct diminution of their quality of life over the first two decades of the third millennium (2001-2020). If Dr. Gonsalves cannot acknowledge that he has failed in his management of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, he will leave himself open to be justifiably charged, that he had with design, ruined the well-being of our people so that he might provide for himself the stage on which, driven by his superlative narcissistic egoism, he could bask in the status of “world boss”. That excess weight is too heavy for the SVG stage.

Le Roy Providence

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36. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Dr. Ferdinand donates books to SMSS that is noble”.

While ‘The Journey: Destined for ON WEDNESDAY, December 2nd, Dr. Greatness’ is suggested as good Julian ‘Jules’ S. Ferdinand donated reading for “young adults and copies of his newly published book, ‘The individuals in the post-youth era of Journey: Destined for Greatness’, to their lives,” it comes highly students of his alma mater, the St. recommended for “students, athletes, Martin’s Secondary School (SMSS). and individuals who are focused on The book, considered to be a sequel developing their careers”. to his 2008 publication, ‘Be Inspired’, As far as donating the books is packs an exciting punch as it concerned, Dr. Ferdinand told THE chronicles the author’s best-learnt VINCENTIAN that, “While it is lessons and thoughts across a number accurate to say that I wanted to make of years. These are well detailed in six the donation to my alma mater, I was segments: Character Formation, especially interested in donating to Visioning, Determination, Synergy and each Form 3 student. I hope that Camaraderie, Making a Difference those who may be struggling with the and, The Destination, all with the aim curriculum will find essays that will of “inspiring readers to excel in all encourage them to focus (or refocus);

by GLORIAH…

Dr. Julian Ferdinand gave a brief talk to students before making the donation.

develop the desire to excel at all subjects; have a discerning spirit to know who they should have as their study partners (and who to avoid); and to commit to the discipline that is necessary to excel.”

He explained that the third form was selected because they were considered to be at the critical stage in their secondary school life, and was adamant that if they choose to develop the proper attitudes and skills at this stage, they will excel.

Dr. Ferdinand, who is also a columnist with THE VINCENTIAN, disclosed that he had made similar donations to secondary schools and public libraries in Trinidad and Tobago, where feedback from teachers and librarians confirmed the book’s usefulness in aiding young readers. It was also reported that some students learnt a great deal from the author’s writing style, even as inspiration was engendered from quotations used throughout.

Not only were Form 3 students provided with copies of this book, but the school library was left richer for Dr. Ferdinand’s visit, when he handed over ten copies for the benefit of other students.

Principal of the St. Martin’s Secondary School, Mr. Yohance Gibson registered his gratitude when he said, “Our school is always happy to partner

Dr. Julian Ferdinand presents a copy of his book to a Form 3 student of the SMSS. with stakeholders to improve the lives and perspectives of the students. We are particularly pleased that Dr. Jules Ferdinand is a past student and he continues to give back to our school so generously, in the sharing of his own life and experiences. We expect, of course, our students to benefit immensely from the readings. I myself have read it and found it such a good piece and, hopefully, it will inspire our students. ”

V The Education we offer

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 37.

Opinion

FOR LONG we have touted far and near the famous Education Revolution. While there are differing views on the nature of this ‘revolution’, there is no doubt that some strides have been made in the education system under the current administration.

However, for far too long ‘education’ has been seen only within certain defined, academic context. Society has no place for those who fall outside of this context. This is a debilitating force to any

society because it polarizes the youth, shuffling some to a bracket of society where they eventually whittle away in ‘abject’ poverty.

When a job vacancy is posted in the papers, for example, it calls for the applicant (youth — unemployed or those seeking alternate employment) to have a minimum of five subjects, including Math and English.

Society’s subtle message is that this is the parameter within which the youth can be

employed, and within which his/her value is assessed.

This, while commendable, does not always lend itself to the nature of the job. The matter of ‘having experience’ is and must be taken into consideration.

I am not totally dismissing formal academic education as we know it. What I wish to advocate is that not all of our youth are the same, and that this one-size-fits-all education as we know it, is archaic, too ‘colonial’ and ‘slavish’, and

needs a dramatic overhaul.

It needs to be truly revolutionized, both for the liberation of the minds of our students and to give impetus to their aspirations.

Our students can do much more than have ten CSEC passes at the end of their tenure. But the deficiency in the system becomes even more glaring when only a minute percentage of them acquire this standard.

Education must now be translated to mean passion

Constituency Representatives in SVG IT IS SAID that the world is a global village; that saying is true. Many times I tune into news from our neighbouring islands and learn how most Constituency Representatives manage their portfolios.

Most of the time Constituency Representatives who become ministers are seen in their constituencies not in their offices. These ministers are in charge of Education, Tourism, Energy and much more yet, they can be seen visiting within their constituencies almost every day. You know how they manage? They leave Permanent Secretaries to do the job they

were paid for.

The Permanent Secretary will go on the radio and television to tell the nation what is going on in a certain ministry. Mind you, those high ranking public servants will get the permission from their Ministers.

Being on TV and radio regularly will not make you win your seat. Instead your work load can cause you to lose touch with your people who voted you to be there in the first place.

Mind you, every constituency representative is in the public’s eye. They want to see you not just once a week when

the elections are over, and seven times a week when the election is called.

Remember, they are not blind.

I say all the above to say, in order to prevent burn out, please let the Heads of Departments in your various Ministries do the work of the Ministry. Let me warn you: if you fail to adhere to this wake-up call then count on me, such a representative will be out of Parliament next election.

‘On the ground’

and livelihood that is, pursuing what one is passionate about and making a livelihood of it, whether that be in the arts — culinary, performing, visual, literary and musical.

There are many of our youth who would wish not to be subjected to the burdensome disciplines of certain subjects in which they have absolutely no interest; subjects which will have no significance to them outside the walls of the institution; subjects whose course content will not be remembered in a few years.

And because course content (material) is now so readily obtained at the click of a website, formal education is seemingly more and more redundant.

As educators, we must also be pioneers. We must assess the education system of which we are a part and which we have been pedaling for decades, and renew, reinvent and recreate it, or at least, trigger fruitful discussion.

Rodcliff Noel

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 39.

Service

Pre- schoolers lap up historic Christmas Party Pre-schoolers having fun ONE HUNDRED PRESCHOOLERS, five each from twenty Pre-schools with an area stretching from Fancy in the North to Biabou in the South, were part of an historic hosting of the SVG Children

was the first time that the event was held outside the confines of Government House, located in Kingstown.

Governor General and Chair of the SVG Welfare Committee Dame Susan Dougan, with Santa who hails from that area, Welfare Fund Committee’s expressed that children Annual Christmas Party for in the rural areas do not often get the opportunity 2020. to move outside of the Held last Saturday afternoon in concert with community, “so we felt we should bring the the Rotary Club SVG at activity to them.” the Learning Resource The Governor General Centre at Colonaire, it disclosed that she plans

to continue this new trend, stating that next they will look at Marriaqua and Kingstown, followed by the Leeward and even to the Grenadines.

Meanwhile, President of Rotary Club SVG, Annette Mark, said the event was just one of the activities in which her organisation was involved.

“It was a joy to see the reception by the children as they were presented with their gifts,” Mark commented.

It was a similar glow that was etched on the faces of the teachers, who accompanied the preschoolers.

Among the comments from the teachers were: “We are happy that the schools got a chance to bring the children.”

“They had a lot of fun.”

“They got to see Santa.”

“They loved to receive gifts and were all smiles.”

Last Saturday’s event had another punctuation mark, as this year celebrates the 50th year

Leo treats Special Needs Students To bring the afternoon of sheer enjoyment to an end, each child received a gift. This was THE LEO CLUB OF ST. made possible, as it has been VINCENT was more than for close to a decade, with the pleased to be able to roll out the generous support of 2020 edition of its signature telecommunications service project, its Annual Christmas provider Digicel.

Party for students of the Of course, the Leo Club was Kingstown School for Children also thankful to The Bake Shop, with Special Needs, last Frisko, KFC, St. Vincent Saturday 12th December.

Brewery Ltd., Laura’s Catering The children relished the face Service, Go Nuttz for Donuts, painting and bouncing castle, Zulsolari Face and Body Paint, even as they savoured the hot Tus-t Water and Uncle Skinny’s dog treats from the newly Playtime, and other business introduced hot dog stand, as places, for their kind support. well as other finger foods and The Club is currently drinks. preparing to execute its third Photo Credit: Leo Club of St. Vincent

Homeless Feeding Project on Sunday 20th December. Apart from the delicacies of honey glazed ham, sorrel beer, a local breakfast menu and Christmas desserts, the homeless will also receive new socks and slippers.

The Leo Club St. Vincent is a non-profit charitable organization and the junior arm of the Lions Club KingstownSVG. Driven by its motto “We Serve”, members promote social change and enhance the wellbeing of persons who are disadvantaged or less fortunate. (Source: Leo Club of St. Vincent)

Face painting was popular with the students.

Right: Time for a treat of something sweet, something salt.

Dame Susan Dougan set in motion, a new dispensation of the SVG Children Welfare Fund Committee’s Annual Christmas Party. since the establishment of the SVG Children Welfare Fund, having been officially launched in 1970.

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40. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Message from the Committee for the Development of Women

The Compassion of Christmas

This Christmas, let us pause a moment in the glitter and merriment to VER TWO THOUSAND ponder on the years ago, in the Compassion of days of Caesar Christmas. It was God Augustus, there was a showing compassion for decree that “All the world the world, by sending should be taxed”, and all Jesus to save us all from went to be taxed, everyone Satan’s power, O tidings to his own city. Failure to of Comfort and Joy! The do so meant great journey to this Joy was punishment at the orders in itself a journey of of the Emperor. This was Compassion. not a time of merriment, Consider Mary, a but toil, torture and pain. teenager, called to bear In today’s world, many the Son of God, and her are faced with difficult cousin Elizabeth an aged situations, and many woman, called to bear walk wounded. Fiery Jesus’ fore-runner. darts fly from that little These women would have member of our bodies — been mocked in their the tongue. There is a pregnant state at two strong competition as to extremes of their life who can hurl the most cycle. There was hurtful words, or commit compassion as these two the most unkind act. It women comforted each is easy to do so because other. technology also plays a In this time of role of “bad master”, as increasing violence in our travel is easy on social society, the trauma of media, no traffic lights some of our women, and and no compassion. the violent behaviour of

by NELCIA ROBINSON Coordinator

O

some of our men, I wish to ponder on the compassion of certain men at Jesus’ birth.

Consider Joseph, finding his wife to be “with child”. In compassion he decided to put her away privately, until the angel of the Lord came to counsel.

He was comforted and displayed even greater compassion to her.

Joseph took his wife — great with child — along with him to be taxed, in obedience to Caesar Augustus’ decree. See him at the door of the Inn — seeking shelter, pleading for a place for his Mary to rest her head. Consider the InnKeeper — he must have looked with compassion on the pregnant Mary, when he offered them the shelter of the Stable.

Consider the Three wise men who in compassion returned home another way, so as

not to bring news of their find to the King who wished to kill the Baby Jesus. Joseph’s compassion reached its peak when he was faithful in protecting the life of Jesus and Mary and obeyed the command of the angels to find temporary safety in Egypt.

In this season, there is trauma and fear in the land. Strange and not so strange diseases are multiplying faster than the comforts people are seeking. Many have set their hearts on accumulating riches, giving space to the multiplying rates of hunger, poverty and unemployment. A lack of compassion exists when there is inequality in the distribution of wealth; when the strong will not help the weak, the experienced will not assist in developing the skills of the beginners,

and the importance of every type of job is not recognized. That first Christmas Day set a new standard.

Consider the Shepherds — all men — watching their sheep - who were the first to spread the Tidings of Great Joy and Peace on Earth, Good will to all the people of the earth. The important role of our men in society was demonstrated through the action of these Shepherds.

So, let the language of hate be replaced by the language of Compassion.

Let us work together, exercising our various gifts and talents, so that

Justice will prevail over treachery, good over evil, freedom over slavery and equality over discrimination.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 41.

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42. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

International Relations

Maduro returned in Venezuela PRESIDENT Nicolas Maduro regained control of Venezuela’s National Assembly after winning the legislative election held on Sunday 6th December, 2020.

The election was held amid a boycott by his USbacked opposition rival Juan Guaido, low voter turnout and international criticism of a “sham” election.

Hours after polls closed on Sunday, Venezuela’s election commission declared Maduro’s United Socialist Party and allied parties had

won 67 percent of the vote. The fraction of the opposition that participated in the legislative election obtained 18 percent, declared election commission head Indira Alfonzo.

Just 31 percent of the country’s 20 million registered voters participated in the election, she said.

The results were a foregone conclusion with the vote largely shunned by opposition candidates.

The boycott effectively handed Maduro’s party control of an expanded 277-seat National Assembly

Gonsalves congratulates Maduro Editor’s Note: The following is a letter of congratulations sent by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves to H.E. President Nicolas Maduro on his victory in Venezuela’s elections to its National Assembly.

Dear Nicolas THE GOVERNMENT and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines commend the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, its citizens, and its Electoral Authorities on the holding of free, fair, and competitive elections on Sunday, December 6, 2020, for persons to sit in the National Assembly.

We congratulate, too, all those who participated as candidates in these elections, inclusive of those who won election to the National Assembly.

From its very inception, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has been known for its commitment to free and fair elections, competitive democracy, and respect for international law.

This heroic country of Our

America has made magnificent this commitment in law and practice. The recent elections to the office of a member of the National Assembly are exemplars in this regard.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is hopeful that those who, for political or ideological reasons, have habitually traduced the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on the ground of a lack of popular democracy, would now cease to do so.

The illegal and perpetual interference and intervention by certain countries in Venezuela’s internal affairs must stop. So, too, the illegal and harmful unilateral sanctions against the government and people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines stands in solidarity with the government and people of Venezuela.

All the best to you, your

In this file photo of September 2016, President Nicolas Maduro welcomes Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on one of his visits to Venezuela. family, the government and people of Venezuela.

Sincerely yours, Dr. The Hon. Ralph E. Gonsalves Prime Minister

— the only institution that was not in the ruling party’s hands. Maduro already has the loyalty of the courts, the military and other institutions.

“We have recovered the National Assembly with the majority vote of the Venezuelan President Nicolas people,” Maduro Maduro shows his said in a televised ballot during elections address. “It’s a great to choose members of victory without a doubt the National Assembly for democracy.” in Caracas, Venezuela, In a videotaped Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020. message issued Sunday, (Photo Credit: AP opposition Photo/Ariana Cubillos) leader Guaido noted the election’s low voter turnout. “The truth cannot be hidden. The majority of Venezuela turned its back on the fraud that began months ago,” he said.

Despite Venezuela’s political turmoil, reports are that voting took place Sunday with no apparent problems in the capital Caracas and elsewhere.

The election also came amid the impending change of US administration. Like outgoing President Donald Trump, President-elect Joe Biden has called Maduro a “dictator”, though it’s unclear what approach he’ll take toward Venezuela’s political crisis.

Meanwhile, Guaido’s opposition movement launched a referendum on Monday 7th December, in an attempt to reignite a campaign to oust Maduro from a nation they claim is suffering unprecedented economic and political crises.

The referendum asked Venezuelans whether they wanted to end Maduro’s rule and hold new presidential elections. (Source: AFP, AP and Reuters)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 43.

News

Two Vincentians on US Fellowship Programme

THE U.S. EMBASSY to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Organization of the Eastern Caribbean States is pleased to announce that two Vincentians, Kayanna Burke and Benarva Browne, have been selected for the 2020-2021 Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program.

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a Fulbright professional exchange program which brings accomplished young and mid-career professionals [LLM(1][LLM(2]to the United States for an academic year of nondegree graduate-level study, leadership development, and substantive professional collaboration with U.S. counterparts. Humphrey Fellows are nominated based on potential for leadership and their demonstrated commitment to public service.

Ms. Browne, a senior technical advisor with Bentley Browne Town Planning Consultancy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will pursue a fellowship in Urban and Regional Planning at the

Massachusetts Institute of Technology in January 2021, while Ms. Burke, an establishment officer in the Policy, Planning and Administration Division of the Ministry of Finance in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, began her fellowship in December in Public Policy Analysis and Public Administration at the University of Minnesota.

During the academic year of 2020-2021, Humphrey Fellows will participate in programs that combine graduatelevel academic course work with professional development activities.

The program is not designed to offer a degree, but rather to provide broad professional enrichment through a combination of activities tailored to each Fellow’s interests. Upon completion of the program, participants are enrolled as exchange alumni of the U.S. Department of State and engage in initiatives that develop their islands in their respective areas of expertise.

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program celebrated 40

Rotary Club of St. Vincent SAYS THANK YOU THE ROTARY CLUB OF ST. VINCENT held their annual fundraising Christmas BBQ at Flowt on Saturday 5th December, 2020.

We are deeply grateful to our patrons for their continued support and would also like to express our gratitude to the following business houses and individuals for their donations: * * * * * * * * * * *

Corea’s Distribution C.K Greaves Q.Care Pharmacy Flowt Restaurant and Bar Sweetie Pie Bakery Caribbean Grains Alex Williams Caribbean Investments Ltd National Lottery Alexis John Invest SVG

Without your generous support, we could not successfully undertake our community projects. We wish everyone a blessed Christmas and prosperous and healthy 2021!

years of developing young and midcareer professionals in 2019. (Source: US Embassy, Barbados)

Ambassador Linda Taglialatela (center) greets Kayanna Burke and Benarva Browne during a previous visit to the U.S. Embassy in Barbados. (Photo Credit: US Embassy, Barbados)

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44. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

“I just wanted the attention”, says Primus

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Monday that he made the dash “to get the MURDER accused Veron attention.”

Primus, one of two After pleading guilty prisoners who were at the Kingstown recaptured on December Magistrate’s Court to 10 after escaping from Her escaping lawful custody Majesty’s Prison between December 7 and Kingstown the previous 10, 2020, Primus stated day, told the Court on that for the past month

he had been seeking the assistance of the police.

He made contact with Sergeant Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU), and informed him that he (Primus) had some information about the murder with which he was charged, and that

information would prove him innocent.

But, according to Primus, “I got no response from him (Duncan).”

Primus is of the view that he is seen as a “nobody,” and because of this, no one wants to

assist him.

The 33-year-old added, “The only other person with the evidence is Mr. Kenton Chance,” but quickly elaborated by saying that Chance probably doesn’t know that he had the evidence.

Interestingly, Primus indicated that he had a lawyer, though, he was unrepresented on Monday in the escaping lawful custody matter.

“I know where the evidence is. Like the Prosecution said, it was wrong, completely wrong, so I just wanted to get the attention, so that it would be published,” Primus continued.

When contacted on

Thursday morning, Journalist Kenton Chance told THE VINCENTIAN, “I am surprised by the comment. I have no idea what he (Primus) is talking about.”

Chance added, “If I have a matter before the Court and I knew of any evidence that could prove my innocence, I would tell it to my lawyer.”

Chance noted that Primus had a lawyer.

Primus is awaiting trial for the murder of Real Estate Agent Charlene Greaves of Dorsetshire Hill, stemming from a stabbing incident.

RSVGPF refutes gang rape allegation Editor’s Note: The following is a press release published verbatim.

THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Police Force (RSVGPF) is unequivocally refuting a news article published by The News Newspaper on Friday December 11, 2020 under the headline “GANG RAPE! Four Police Officers under investigation for Raping Girl at Station.” The article alleges that four (4) police officers raped an under-aged girl multiple times at a police station in a rural district and that the matter is currently under investigations. The article was republished by Asberth News Network (ANN) on Monday December 14, 2020.

The RSVGPF wishes to inform the general public that the article in question is erroneous, incorrect and frankly irresponsible journalism.

While the RSVGPF has launched recent investigations into reports of a sexual nature against several police officers, the organizations wishes to list a few facts:- the investigations are all independent of each other; there is no gang rape involved in these investigations; none of the alleged incidents occurred at any police station; none of the alleged victims are under the age of consent.

It must be noted that prior to the publishing of the article, no effort was made to verify the information with the Commissioner of Police or any other member of the hierarchy; or even the Public Relations and Complaints Department.

Members of the media and media houses are strongly advised to verify and seek out factual information from the RSVGPF before publishing articles of this nature. Doing so will avoid tarnishing the reputation of members of the organization, prevent undue public alarm and; protect the credibility of journalists and media organizations.

Accordingly, the RSVGPF calls on The News Newspaper and Asberth News Network (ANN) to apologize and retract the article in question.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 45.

Arts

Literary Awards presented KATHY BADENOCK took the Nigel Thomas Award for top 2020 work of Fiction with her production called, ‘Twilight in the Tropics’. Denise Westfield, who penned the story ‘On her way home’ placed second, and Tamara Toney with ‘The silence she inherited’, earned the third spot.

These awardees and others were recognised last Monday evening at a Literary Awards Ceremony, a collaboration involving The University of the West Indies Open Campus and the Association of Artists, Writers and Producers.

The ceremony was held at the Conference Room of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Credit Union headquarters.

Afreeca Daniel with her poem ‘Green and Brown from my Childhood’ won the Ellsworth ‘Shake’ Keane Poem segment. Oslay Ollivierre with ‘A Place I feel Connected to’ copped the second spot, and Gaylene David’s ‘What more can a Rose ask for?’ earned her the third place.

Alexis ‘Lexi’ Joseph, a calypsonian gifted with an exceptional writing skill and unique delivery, was recognised posthumously for his contribution to culture. His token was received by his brother Jim Joseph.

The 21-year-old Kalypso Kollege, a weekly radio show that focuses on the calypso art form, was recognised for its enhancement of the appreciation of that art form. Its founder - Stephen Huggins received the award.

The ceremony also heard from: Michelle KingCampbell who offered tips on ways to improve one’s fiction-writing; Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams who pointed out, inter alia, that “a good poem doesn’t have to be long”; and President of the Association of Artists, Writers and Producers Rene Baptiste who insisted on quality delivery.

The ceremony served as a test for the second cohort of the Event Management Class of the UWI. Ronnie Daniel, Marketing and Communications Officer, The UWI Open Campus, Kingstown, acknowledged the reduction in the UWI workload as a consequence of the Event Management’s involvement in the exercise.

Deborah Dalymple, Head of The UWI Open Campus, Kingstown, anticipates the return of the Literary Fair next year, in the new Open Campus.

She pointed to adjustments in this year’s ceremony occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

There were cultural performances by: drummer Nzimbu Browne and vocalist Shane Wynne with a Garifuna tinged presentation; and premiere dance company La Gracia Dancers.

The Event Management Class of 2020 comprises Joel Bibby, the sole male student, Tasheka Haynes-

Bobb, Donique Culzac, Daneisha Davis, Shadeja Gordon, Jordanne Harris, Keisha Johnson, Laurel Lewis-Harry, Cenica Patterson, Enika Peters, Dezarie Thomas, Carol Veira, Eustasha Walters and Aiesha Williams-Samuel.

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46. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Prison: More needs to be done LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION Dr. Godwin Friday has made it clear that from where he stands, more needs to be done to ensure that there will not be a repeat of last week’s prison break.

Dr. Friday was referencing the escape of two inmates, Veron Primus and Ulric Hanson, from the Her Majesty’s Prison in Kingstown, on December 9. The escapees have since been captured.

He made the call on Monday, December 14 during his now regular segment of the New Times Programme, aired from Monday to Friday on NICE Radio, in which he also called for the incident to be thoroughly investigated.

Further, Dr. Friday cited Brenton Charles, Superintendent of Prisons, was the first casualty following the recent prison break.

the decision to send Superintendent of Prisons Brenton Charles on early retirement leave as insufficient action, in dealing with the concerns surrounding the management and operations of the Prison.

He posited that the retiring of Charles would do nothing to allay any fears that the public might have about prison breaks becoming a chromic practice.

“You can’t just change the head, you have to have a proper investigation as to the conditions in the management and functioning of our prison system,” Friday said.

The Opposition Leader contended that the public needed to know how and why the recent prison break happened, especially in light of the fact that it involved a prisoner who had earlier this year escaped from the same

prison.

“We have been hearing complaints for some time now about understaffing, low morale among members of staff, about improper working conditions,” he said, adding that he has received firsthand complaints from persons who work at the prisons, who have described the working conditions there as appalling.

The situation was not something to be taken lightly, the Opposition Leader asserted.

And as he repeated his call for a thorough investigation into the functioning of the prisons, Dr. Friday said changing the person at the top was not going to change anything; that there has to be more in order to restore some confidence amongst the public.

“We can’t have a situation

Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday has called for a thorough investigation into the functioning of the prison system here. of covering up and hiding and making cosmetic changes here and there, and thinking that is a substitute for the good management of the prison system,” Dr. Friday stressed.

According to the Leader of the Opposition it was necessary to look at the safety of the public and the safety of those who work within the prison system.

There was the need for the implementation of standards within the prison, Friday said, and the need for those standards to be maintained.

(DD)

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Changes in your home will be positive.

Don't let others make you feel guilty or insecure. If you act with anger you may blow the relationship. Self-improvement could bring amazing results.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Interaction with colleagues will only be upsetting. Keep tabs on your spending.

You should get out and meet some of those clients that you only speak to on the phone.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Go after your goals and don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Be sure to get involved with those who can introduce you to unusual forms of entertainment.

Financial limitations are likely if you take risks.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Try to do your job and then leave.

Visitors may drop by unexpectedly, resulting in tension with your lover. You can make money if you concentrate on producing services or goods that will make domestic chores easier.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Take the time to do something nice for your friends and relatives. Hassles with close friends or family will put a damper on your day and result in isolation and loneliness.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Remember; talk to them, not at them.

Don't make promises. Quarrels will erupt if you get into philosophical debates with friends. This will not be the day to have minor surgery.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Changes regarding your career direction will payoff handsomely. Don't bother retaliating, just walk away. Your goals will be in reach if you direct your energy wisely. Don't invest too much of your own money.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don't let relatives make demands of you.

You may have a hard time relating to children this week. Your high energy should be spent pleasing your mate. You could be drawn to events that concern children.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism. Don't be afraid to make a move if you aren't happy with your emotional situation. You will reach the most people if you speak out at an organizational function.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Your involvement in groups will be favorable for meeting new and exciting individuals. Opportunities to get together with friends will be enlightening and entertaining. Try not to judge too quickly.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You will feel better about yourself and you may also meet potential lovers. You may find that your documents are not in order. Don't count on getting any help from those you live with.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your ability to ferret out secret information will lead you to an inside scoop on an amazing financial deal. Don't be critical or overly opinionated with dislikes; it could cause disapproval and unwanted opposition.

ACROSS 1. Long, long – 4. Gas- propelled vehicle 7. “Phooey!”

10. Burden 12. Natural metal 13. Lucy’s Arnaz 14. Attribute of Job 16. Vane heading 17. At that moment 18. Funny Knotts 20. Shoveled 23. Western state 26. Draft spigots 30. Some crackers 33. Admired one 34. Ms. Marie Saint 35. Pace 36. Stroked lovingly 38. Shipshape 39. Humble 40. Caustic cleanser 42. _ airmail 44. Talk too much 48. Tiptop 51. Muscle-sculpting implements 55. Pursues legal damages against 56. Untruth 57. Adhesive goo 58. Writing device 59. North Pole employee?

60. Thus far DOWN 1. Swiss summit 2. Bearded beast 3. Public pledge 4. Chili – carne 5. Planetary path 6. Clarinet insert

7. Humorous Arthur 8. Braying pack critter 9. Wallop 11. Stop breathing 13. Teeth doctor 15. Terminate 19. Absent from school 21. Puts to work 22. Judge’s mallet 24. Debate side 25. Obey 26. Eyelid twitch 27. Creation-story fellow 28. Tiny opening 29. Arm coverings 31. Adult female 32. Foreign agent 37. Glide down a

slope 41. Become weak 43. Qualified 45. Knee site 46. Wartime partner 47. Feeling sad 48. African viper

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 47.

49. Onstage prompt 50. Gents 52. Be sick 53. Wrestling arbiter 54. Firm up, as cement

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48. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Best friend blues Dear George, AFTER I described my situation, tell me if I am over-reacting being jealous.

From time to time when I visit my girlfriend, she is in the company of this guy. She says he is her best friend and he is gay.

However, I received information that they were seen on the beach together in Bequia, but I brushed it off by telling my informant that he was gay. What a shock when the person told me he seemed to be going both ways.

The latest is that this guy wants my girlfriend to stay with him, at his place, to help him through a period of mourning for a relative who died recently.

Obviously, I objected strongly to this proposition and she accused me of over-reacting and being jealous, then proceeded to say she was leaving me. I have not heard from her since.

Now you see the reason for my opening question.

Seeking an opinion

Dear Seeking an opinion, The first area of concern is your girlfriend having someone else other than you to be her best friend. Best friends get to enjoy certain privileges that are the envy of others. Placing you in the “others” category can surely cause your thoughts to wonder.

It is not an overreaction to object to your girlfriend camping out at her friend’s house for whatever reason, nor is it when you question why she has to spend time with him on a beach off the mainland.

She seems to have made a decision to trade you in for her best friend.

There is nothing much you can do about it other than to start looking for someone who sees the wisdom in making their partner their best friend.

George

ÂBig and ClumsyÊ intentions to marry me.

I do not want anyone I OVERHEARD my man to waste my time when all they wanted was just telling someone on the some fun. What do you phone that he prefers think I should do? his women slim and trim, and how he could Devastated never marry a woman who is “big and Dear Devastated, clumsy.” His comments hurt me because I am 5’ You need to have a 9” and 295 pounds. serious conversation We have been with your man. together for 11 months Whether or not he and he gave me some meant them, those are big speeches about his

Dear George,

words that should never be uttered to anyone — male or female.

Mark your guard and get your guy to explain why he is in a relationship with you, while his true fantasy is to be with someone who’s the complete opposite.

Then again, referring to you as “big and clumsy” should earn him an exit pass.

George

The woman on the side I cannot see how you could have unprotected sex with a third party.

I HAVE BEEN seeing Going forward, your this woman on the side and because I refused to agenda should have the following three items for back a car loan for her, immediate action: forget she has threatened to about that idea of tell my wife about us. backing her car loan; get Further, she claimed that she manipulated me yourself tested for HIV; into having unprotected sex knowing that she was HIV positive.

While she recanted on the HIV story, her threat has me worried. I don’t want to see my marriage and life destroyed.

Should I give in to her (loan) and should I believe the HIV talk?

Dear George,

Regretting Dear Regretting,

revisit your marriage vows.

Begin the house cleaning now and hopefully you will not be the big loser after the dust has been removed.

George

V Vincy elected to USA Fencing Board

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 49.

Diaspora

Team, USA Fencing said.

“She continues to serve as an instructor and mentor at the Peter Westbrook Foundation, and is the founder of Fencing in the Park, a community-based, outdoor summer series in Brooklyn that introduces fencing to children of color,” USA Fencing said.

“In this role I (will) not only make decisions but also have the opportunity to propose changes to the organization and make the case for why they’re necessary,” 2018 Senior World Championships, Quarterfinals. she said.

(Credit: Augusto Bizzi) Prescod said that An Honour to serve developing confidence, in April she inspired the female in USA fencing history, and has ranked optimism and sense of A total of 119 athletes start of the Diversity, as high as no. 5 in the purpose,” she added, Equity, Inclusion & voted in the election, world. stating that FITP is now Belonging (DEIB) which was open to all The young fencer has fundraising and looking resource team at USA athletes who have for space “to transition Fencing.

“Since then, established Fencing in represented the United our kids to more States at the Olympic or we’ve encountered some the Park (FITP) in Brooklyn, a communitycompetitive training.

Paralympic Games, Pan resistance and based, outdoor summer “Any monetary or discouragement from American Games or series introducing the facility donations are having meaningful Senior World welcomed,” Prescod political representation,” less visible sport of Championships. urged.

“I’m really “It’s an honor to know she said, stating that the fencing to children of color that are unlikely to proud to be a young the Olympic, Paralympic DEIB supports structural Prescod said leader,” she said. “To be and World Championship and sustainable changes access it.

Olympic, national team, effective, it really that are “not an easy team members support and National Collegiate requires a savviness with me as a leader and trust lift.”

Athletic Association words, both as a writer While on the USA me to represent their (NCAA) athletes joined and as an orator. “I Fencing Board, Prescod interests,” Prescod told think it’s incredible how said she plans to promote together to lead the THE VINCENTIAN in sessions. much my life so far has an exclusive interview on DEIB priorities, the first She said FITP has resembled my namesake being to become a Monday. “It was a enrolled more than 40 Queen Nzinga of standing committee landslide. I believe I kids from Angola,” Prescod added. deserve the position but written into the bylaws. underrepresented “I have been reading

by NELSON A. KING Schneider, of Ithaca, She will sit on the that doesn’t always Brooklyn neighborhoods, Marcus Garvey’s naking@verizon.net New York and 2014 Board from January to translate to votes.”

‘Philosophies and US CORRESPONDENT Senior World Team August, and will get the such as East Flatbush, She said that, from Flatbush, Brownsville, Opinions’, and look to it member Adam Watson, opportunity to be reSeptember to early Bed-Stuyvesant and as a guide. I’m very FOLLOWING THE of Hoboken, New Jersey, December, there hasn’t elected.

Crown Heights. much looking forward to CONCLUSION of elections as the athlete directors Since the Olympics been any Black “Parents reported the opportunity.” among elite fencers, two- on the Board. were moved, Prescod said representation on the Her mom told THE time Vincentian-American All four athletes will “it’s an abnormal cycle.” noticeable improvement USA Fencing Board of in their child’s discipline, VINCENTIAN that, over Fencing Olympian and complete their terms Directors, and this teaming, and focus the years, her daughter East Flatbush, Brooklyn, after the conclusion of Building on her shortcoming was even abilities,” Prescod said. has “gained the respect New York resident Nzingha the 2021 Olympic more pronounced since it accomplishments “Many also believe FITP and admiration of the Prescod, has been Games, USA Fencing came at a time when the lifted their kids’ spirits fencing community. selected to serve as an said. organization was facing Prescod, a two-time during an unprecedented “I’m extremely proud athlete director on the USA Fencing said “important disciplinary Olympic fencer, with five period of isolation due to of her,” Marva Prescod USA Fencing Board of Prescod, the first decisions regarding World Championship COVID-19. said. “She lifts us all up Directors, beginning on African-American fencer racial discrimination and titles, said among her “FITP provided them to a higher standard of Jan. 1, 2021. to win an individual setting a strong most notable sport with a productive outlet aspiration and integrity.”

USA Fencing said medal at the Senior precedent to protect accomplishments was to stay active while Prescod, 28, whose World Championships people of color from that becoming the mother is Vincentian with a bronze in 2015, form of mistreatment. first Black woman lawyer Marva Prescod, a was instrumental in “Their sentence to win an Kingstown native, was leading the US Women’s reeked of lenience and individual medal at elected with 2012 Foil Team to three favorability for the the Senior World Paralympian Cat straight medals at Senior offender,” she said. “It’s Championships Bouwkamp, of Fishers, World Championships, unfortunate that there when she claimed Ind. including the squad’s haven’t been more voices bronze in 2015.

In August, the USA first-ever gold in 2018. of color to provide In July 2018, Fencing Board of A graduate of the perspective on issues she and her team Directors voted to amend prestigious Columbia affecting us. I hope to fill captured Team its bylaws to increase the University in New York, that role and empower USA’s first-ever level of athlete with a bachelor’s degree more people of color to World representation on the in political science join the Board, as well.”

Championships Board from 20 percent to concentration in race and As a member of the gold medal for 33 percent. ethnicity - Prescod is Board of the Directors, the USA Foil.

USA Fencing said that one of the founding Prescod said she will be Prescod is an Prescod and Bouwkamp members of USA “one of the votes to eight-time World join two-time Senior Fencing’s Diversity, decide on the policy and Championship World team Equity, Inclusion and governance direction for medalist, the most 2015 Senior World Championships, Bronze medalist. medalist Daria Belonging Resource USA Fencing. decorated Black (Credit: Augusto Bizzi) Nzingha Prescod

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50. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Industry

UN reclassifies cannabis AS MORE and more Caribbean countries move to cash in on the billiondollar medical cannabis industry by passing or amending legislation to make the cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis legal, it must be

welcomed news that the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (UNCND) has voted to remove cannabis from its classification as a dangerous drug.

Voting on a motion to

remove cannabis from Schedule IV of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, where it was listed alongside deadly, addictive opioids, including heroin, 27 members of the 53member UNCND voting

in favour, with 25 voting against and one abstaining.

Notwithstanding the vote, cannabis remains largely an illegal substance, but the vote is said to open the door for more research into the

Barbados poised for cannabis takeoff THE BARBADOS government says the medicinal cannabis industry will get underway in January next year, giving the assurances also that interested persons will be allowed to enter the sector, but not at the same time.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Indar Weir, also made it clear that when the industry gets started it will not be a repeat of the sugar industry.

“The industry must get started…. People will be allowed to enter, [but] not everybody is going to be able to start at the same time,” he told a public forum on the medicinal cannabis industry.

Weir said that countries such as Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines started before Barbados, but did not issue a lot of licenses.

He said the Mia Mottley government wanted to facilitate people equally while managing the “narrative” to ensure that the wrong impression was not sent internationally.

However, Weir said Barbados was known for its

Indar Weir, Barbados’ Agriculture and Food Security Minister, cautioned that persons entering the industry will do so in a phased manner. (Photo Credit; Barbados Today) hospitality; delivering on promises; being politically stable; and having a good reputation in the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States of America.

As a result, he said, more people were enquiring about Barbados’ industry, and more investors were showing interest in coming to the island.

Weit also said that the medicinal cannabis industry would not be handled like the sugar industry, noting the only thing being exported would be a finished product.

(CaribbeanNatiobnalWeekly.com)

medicinal and therapeutic aspects of the plant, not to mention legalisation.

Here in the Caribbean, there have been moves by some governments, e.g. St, Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), to legalise cannabis for medicinal purposes.

Additionally, SVG and others such as Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, and most recently Barbados, have decriminalised the use of cannabis under certain quantities and for specific purposes, and in some cases, placed restrictions on where it can be consumed.

Douglas Gordon, founder of the Cannabis Business Conference and Expo (CANEX), Jamaica, welcomed the move.

“While long overdue, it is a welcomed and important step in the ongoing push towards normalisation of the

The reclassification of cannabis by the UN is expected to see an increase in the number of countries moving towards amending their laws as they apply to herb. industry. The UN vote will immediately facilitate more scientific and medical research in laboratories around the world. It will also help progressive thinking government leadership around the world to act and move forward in advancing needed legislation and regulations. I am optimistic that this will have a positive impact on the evolution of the industry throughout the Caribbean,” he told Loop News. (Source: Loop news)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 51.

Works

BRAGSA road programme ongoing

The repaired road in Backpiece, Troumaca.

Photos Credit: BRAGSA BRAGSA’S - ROADS, BUILDINGS AND GENERAL SERVICES AUTHORITY – road construction and repair programme continued with two projects.

The first was the repair of 228 feet of road in Backpiece, Troumaca, in the North Leeward constituency.

Additionally, BRAGSA undertook and completed the construction of an accompanying 212-foot long Slipper Drain.

This five-week project cost EC$42,000.

Staying on the

Leeward side of mainland St. Vincent, BRAGSA moved south

into Vermont, in the South Leeward constituency, where it completed the construction of a new 253-foot long concrete road, along with a 250foot long Box drain, in Sugar Ridge.

A 96-foot long retaining wall was constructed and repair work was also done on 66 feet of Slipper drain.

Residents in the area welcomed the road which has made their movement in and out and around the community much easier.

The Sugar Ridge project cost some EC$105,000 and took six weeks from commencement to completion.

And drivers and commuters are pleased with the asphalt resurfacing of some 700 feet of roadway from Whim Road to Ribishi Gap, in the Fairhall

Portion of the road from Whim Road to Ribishi Gap.

community.

In addition, a 155-foot long Cross drain was repaired and a 55-foot long Swale Drain and a 170-foot long Box Drain were constructed.

BRAGSA also built a 50-foot long retaining wall to support the road and drain works.

The Fairhall project, completed over a sixweek period, cost some EC$227,000.

And as part of its Schools Rehabilitation Project, BRAGSA recently conducted soil testing at three schools across the island.

Field Percolation tests were carried out at the Sandy Bay Secondary School, the St. Clair Dacon Secondary School and the Kingstown

Residents in Sugar Ridge now have a new road.

Anglican School, to determine the water absorption rate of the soil, in preparation for the design of septic drain fields.

Soil samples were also tested at BRAGSA’s laboratory to determine the type and

classification of the soil, the results of which will be used in the foundation designs of new buildings at the schools.

Similar tests are expected to be carried out at six other schools.

(Source: BRAGSA)

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52. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Playz take Blue Chip Tournament title

PLAYZ YOUTH ACADEMY was crowned champions of the Blue Chip Academy 3x3 Basketball Tournament, when they defeated Blue Chip 14-5 in the finals, played last Sunday at the Arnos Vale hard court.

A rotation of Michael Smith, Trevin Snagg, Darreo Glasgow, Philron Cambridge, Kezique Williams, Justin McMillian, Juan Barker and Tayon Burgin, playing unbeaten throughout the Tournament, secured the title for Playz Youth Academy.

Orlando Ferguson, Founder and Head Coach of the Playz Youth Academy and a retired national basketballer, was obviously happy with the victory. “.. I am very pleased with the outcome where we played unbeaten…. .

We have some good, upcoming players that played their role; everybody worked

together to accomplish this, so I am really pleased. This shows that our Saturday morning training programme is paying off,” Ferguson said.

But while Ferguson celebrates with his players on winning this tournament, he, Blue Chip Academy - runners up. like Kendal Thomas, First Right: Playz Youth Academy - Blue Vice President Tournament Champions. the SVG Basketball see what they have and Federation (see where they are at. Most accompanying story), of the times we practise lamented the lack of among ourselves so it tournaments. was a plus to Blue Chip “There are a lot of Academy for organizing things that I’ve seen this tournament, so we today that we need to can identify the players’ work on… one of the problems that we have is flaws and plan accordingly,” the that the guys are not former.” getting enough competition so they can I.B.A.ALLEN

SVGCC’s TT Championships conclude AMONI DE ROCHE pouched the Male title and Shania Edwards wore the Female crown, when the 2020 St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s (SVGCC) Table Tennis Championships concluded at the Students’ Hall at the Villa Campus, last Friday afternoon.

De Roche defeated Ryan Davis in straight sets, 11/5, L-R: Shania Edwards and Amoni De Roche 11/5, 11/7, in the final, while Edwards And, Alliah Duke took the Female spanked Aaliyah Charles, 11/6, 11/9, bronze, when she stopped Shania Mc 11/8, in the charge to her top spot.

Dowall 11/5, 11/4, 11/7 in the third In the Male semi-finals, De Roche place play off. ousted Tykel Pierre 11/4, 11/5, 11/3, Eight males and six females and Davis inflicted an 1/5, 11/6, 11/5 contested the invitational trumping on Ezra Glasgow. championships, which had the Pierre took the third place when he blessings of the St Vincent and beat Glasgow in a thrilling five-setter, the Grenadines Table Tennis 8/11, 8/11, 11/6, 11/6, 11/7.

Association.

Chip 3x3

More Basketball tournaments needed KENDALL THOMAS, First Vice President of the SVG Basketball Federation and local Coordinator of the Campden Park based Blue Chip Basketball Academy, is of the view that there is need for more basketball tournaments.

Thomas expressed the sentiment during a break in the Blue Chip Academy 3x3 Tournament held last weekend, at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex.

Blue Chip Academy, the brainchild of Kishore Bishop a native of Campden Park who resides in North Carolina, USA, is committed to opening avenues for young people, basketball being one of those avenues.

As far as involvement in the Tournament was concerned, participants were drawn from four Basketball Academies/Clubs: Playaz Basketball Academy, Greiggs All Stars, Mavrick Youth Club and the host, Blue Chip Academy, with each academy/club fielding more than one team.

“The outcome was good. The games ran

smoothly, the discipline was fairly good even though there were instances when the emotions of players got the better of them.

Overall, we achieved what we set out to do,” Thomas responded when asked about the Tournament.

“Our goal was achieved,” he continued, adding, Kendall Thomas – First Vice “In the absence of President of SVG Basketball basketball, which to Federation. many is a dying sport, we wanted to their peers and that is keep the sport relevant missing, so that’s why hence the reason we today one of the positives organized this that we saw was we had tournament.” kids competing.”

The Blue Chip CoHe noted that his ordinator said that his Academy recognized that Academy runs “a lot of inter-academy “there are very few activities…… it’s outlets for (basketball) important for the kids to players ….. and with come out and play COVID this year, there against players outside was little or no basketball activity, so I of our academy like they did today. Training is decided that before the also important but year ends, we should competition is more have some kind of important, so we need activities for the young more of this to keep the players.” interest and for players Pushed further, to see exactly where they Thomas said, are in terms of their “Competition is key for skills.” players to develop; they must compete among I.B.A.ALLEN

V Female footballers assessed

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 53.

Sports

LAST Saturday’s Female Fun Day at the Victoria Park was staged primarily with the purpose of assessing teams’ readiness for the Women’s segment of the 2020/2021 St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) National Club Championships.

“With the female competition of the National Club Championships coming up, we just wanted to do an assessment of the level of female footballers within the clubs… So we thought having such an activity we would see what the clubs have to offer”, Second Vice- President of the SVGFF- Wayne Grant related.

In expressing delight with the outcome of the Wayne Grant, day’s activities Second Vice especially with President of the number of the SVGFF.

females who turned out, Grant underscored that the main objective was achieved.

“We, from an Executive stand point, can now plan for the Female Competition in much better way,” Grant added.

Grant, though, disclosed that the Female Division of the National Club Championships may not be full 11 vs 11 format, as some teams are not ready to play the full field football.

“We will be cutting down on the size of the field, because of the standard of some of the females,” he explained.

Also on the cards, according to Grant, is a Secondary On field action between Jebelle and Hope International.

Early signs of Premier DivisionÊs tight race AFTER THREE ROUNDS of matches in the Premier Division of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation’s National Club Championships, the a stiff race for the 2020/2021 title is already taking shape.

When the round concluded last Sunday night at the Victoria Park, BESCO- Pastures and Sion Hill sat on top with seven points each; Layou and Hope International followed on five points apiece.

Je Belle, Awesome and Avenues had accumulated four points each, followed by System Three — two points, North Leeward Predators- one point and Largo Height yet to register a point.

Round three results saw two wins and three draws.

Sion Hill blanked Awesome FC 3-0 on Thursday, with goals coming from Dorian Dallaway in the 14th and 42nd minutes and Zenroy Lee in the 31st minute.

Meanwhile, Je Belle got their first three points with a 4-1 dismantling of Largo Height on Friday. For Je Belle, Najima Burgin scored in the 30th minute, Morrison Mc Kie in the 32nd and Emerald George and Terris Joseph in the 53rd and 66th minutes respectively. Giovanni

Female footballers getting insights of the Laws of the Game from Clemmroy ‘Bert’ Francois (standing right).

Schools Female Football Competition that would constitute the Junior component of the National Club Championship. This is earmarked to be held in January 2021.

Last Saturday’s Fun Day was more than just females having fun. The teams were engaged in sessions during which they were given insights into the Laws of the Games, Match Commissioning and Referees’ Assessment, as well as small-sided matches.

Arising out of these sessions, all teams were given opportunities to perform duties of Refereeing, Match Commissioning and Assessing the Referees.

Responding to the sessions, Grant said sessions of this will be the order of the day, when it comes to the other development aspects of Football here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

There was no Female Division for the 2019/2020 National Club Championships, because of the situation surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

YardBoyz ablaze in Canouan football

On field action in Sunday’s encounter between North Leeward Predators and BESCO - Pastures.

Johnson had put Largo Height ahead in the 15th minute before Je Belle stormed back.

Also on Friday night, Avenues United and System Three played to a 2-2 draw. Scoring for Avenues were Romario Dennie (7th minute) and Erel Hector (75th minute). Kishawn Johnny equalised for System Three in the 16th minutes and Cordell Dallaway again tied the match for System Three, in the 2nd minute of injury time.

The draws were extended to both matches on Sunday, first when BESCO- Pastures and North Leeward drew one goal apiece. Gidson Francis scored a 32nd minute penalty for BESCOPastures, with Cleon Westfield

levelling the match in the 67th minute.

And defending champions Hope International and Layou finished their encounter at two goals each in Sunday’s other match.

Nazir Mc Burnette put Hope International in the lead in the 5th minute, but Trivis Fraser brought parity when he scored in the 14th minute. Valdo Anderson restored Hope International’s lead with a 27th minute header, before Trivis Fraser scored his second in the 51st minute.

The fourth round takes places this weekend, before the championships go on the Christmas break.

Each of the ten teams will play each other twice.

THE SVGFF/HAIROUN BEER Canouan Football league continued on Saturday 5th with the second half of the match between YardBozs and Mexican Family 2, which was halted because of a waterlogged field the previous weekend.

YardBoyz, who led 5-1 when the game was halted, continued where they left off and proceeded to trounce their opponents, 10-2. Benjamin Williams completed a hat trick; Marlon Scrubb a brace; Cleus Codougan, Kevin Gordon, Shanna Brown and Devon Blake, one each with the other being an own goal. Kenroy Stay and Akazie Young converted for Mexican Family 2.

In the second game on Saturday, SLYCR/GBC Celtics and Canouan Utd played to a 1-1 draw, with goals coming from Alroy Benn for SLYCR/GBC and Mequan Compton for Canouan United.

YardBoyz returned on Sunday to inflict a 4-2 beating on Mexican Family 1. Williams was again among the goals for YardBoyz, registering his second hat trick in consecutive games.

Shanna Browne turned in the other for YardBoyz with Tevin Griffith and Alsworth Pierre scoring for Mexican Family 2.

The Competition continues at the Fisheries Sporting Complex. (Source: Dominique Stowe)

V

54. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Long road to Qatar THE PATH for the males has been disclosed, and one will accept that it is an arduous task to make it to the FIFA World Cup 2022. However, the countdown has begun.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines are drawn in Group C and play away matches against Curacao, March 25, and Guatemala, Friday, June 4. They enjoy home advantage against British Virgin Islands, March 30, and Cuba, Tuesday, June 8.

The Vincentians have to win in order to progress.

Only the winner from each of the six groups will survive into the next round.

Group A features El Salvador, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Montserrat and United States Virgin Islands.

Canada, Suriname, Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Aruba battle it out in Group B. Panama, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Dominica, and Anguilla contend for group D honours.

Haiti, Nicaragua, Belize, St. Lucia, and Turks and Caicos Islands square off in Group E, with Trinidad and Tobago, St. Kitts and Nevis, Guyana, Puerto Rico, and Bahamas in Group F. Only the winners of each of the (six) groups will go forward to the Second Round, which will see Group A winner taking on the winner of Group: the Group B winner facing the winner of Group E; and the winners of Group C and Group D squaring off.

The three Second Round winners will join the USA, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras and Jamaica to make up the Third Round, which will be played on a Round Robin Home and Away basis.

This year has been an exciting one. However, some will point to the disruption in affairs as preoccupation with the global trends has put a gloom over normal events.

Even with the adjustments, there might still be reason for caution, for no one knows how the droplets will fall. There has been a realignment in the staging of the normal activities. There was enough activity to stir up the interest of sport enthusiasts.

Those who have surfaced deserve their recognition. The number of events was reduced, but there was no dropping in the intensity and preparation that athletes are going through.

The environment has contributed to the cost of staying in shape. Whilst we are escaping the widespread health repercussions, there is no doubt about the impact on the economic front.

Bemoaning any situation is not going to help.

And whatever consequences there are, measures must be taken to handle the developments. There is no profit in adopting an attitude of despondency.

The time has fast approached when everyone must face the test of reality. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has its distinct traits. The resilience of its people is renown. They survive whatever circumstances.

That legacy beams with the recognition of the Garifuna people who were expected to have been exterminated. That generation defied the odds and have produced a people of exceptional skills.

That is corresponding to the land which they have couched as their own. And those who replenished the terrain have traces of the Joseph Chatoyer instinct of genuine patriotism.

The landscape continues to transform. That includes the existence of La Soufriere, a volcano, violent in nature, but has kept an atmosphere of calm over the past 41 years.

Even with the spate of global activity, no one can rule out an explosion at any time. That is a good reason for everyone to take stock of his or herself and be prepared for unexcepted.

If soccer is to develop…

I APPLAUD Mr. Theon Gordon for his address to the recent Awards and Recognition Ceremony hosted by the SVG Football Federation.

Suffice it to say, much of what Mr. Gordon shared is what I have been writing about over the years, to no avail it seems.

Mr. Gordon, though, has not identified the causes of what is wrong, i.e. the team owners, managers, administrators who seem more interested in personal glory than the genuine development of the players/sport.

Inexperience and a lack of knowledge of the processes of sport development are the problems.

Mr. Gordon is part of the SVGFF; he is a CONCACAF instructor; we need more people like him with words to bring about an awareness, to bring about the changes for better. He must encourage others to become instructors; the more voices, the more convincing others will become. Tell us how to become an instructor….what does one have to do? This is the moment in time you should share, so others can become knowledgeable and also become advocates of best practices in the administration and development of the sport.

There are many experienced and knowledgeable (football) persons in SVG, but they are not welcomed by the SVGFF

executives, team owners, managers and club members (the voters), because their intentions differ. These persons have information that will contribute to educating spectators, sponsors and other contributors to the sport.

But, those who profess to serve football use the sport as an avenue to socialize — to massage their image.

Funny, but many of these persons who play leading roles in the Federation and clubs, were never players and if they were, they were not very good players… they couldn’t even make their team’s first eleven.

Moreover, they have never attended any FIFA administration and coaching courses so as to gain some sense of what’s required and the time required to help improve the standard of the sport, i.e. the standard of the players.

Persons whom we think and believe to be influential and who spout words of good intention, don’t make them able to cure the sick. Why should one believe they can develop football!

Now is the time for Vincentians to speak out, follow Theon Gordon. Call for a change now, prepare for the next general meeting to have change implemented.

Get the executive to define ‘development and football

development’ and have some working committees to start aiding development.

Words matter but action, implementing what’s good for improvement, is even more important. And while we must get the executive working, we must also accept that they alone cannot improve the sport.

So, Theon Gordon, stand up again, and tell them what is required now. If we are to develop and move from the bottom of FIFA World Cup standing, now is the time to start the change.

Mr. T. Gordon, you are on the inside of the SVGFF so see to it that there are players and coaches associations.

This article is intended to make all aware that change (action) not words, is needed now — 2021. Do not shoot Theon or Rollilt nor hate them more or love them less, just support the issue, so all can be smiling when our national teams are playing, instead of sucking our teeth and getting mad.

By the way, many of the current Executive of the SVGFF jobs from 8am to 4pm at least five days a week. When would they find the quality time to give to the development of SVG’s football?

How can they serve two masters at the same time?

I have more to say in another article.

Rollit

Rugby President looking towards 2021 THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted the competition schedules of sporting associations here, the SVG Rugby Association (SVGRA) being no exception.

But while there was no competitive action, the executive of the SVGRA ensured that the players continued with their training, in preparation for competition which is anticipated to resume in the near future.

“We continue training at Sion Hill Tuesdays and Thursdays. We also started two grassroot programmes, one Leonard Matthews at Sion Hill and the other at Keartons, in an effort to instill President of the SVG Rugby the basics at a young age and Association. provide coaches with an opportunity to fine-tune their skills,” President of the SVGRA- Leonard Matthews told THE VINCENTIAN in a recent interview.

Matthews admitted that the impact was severest at the regional level. In fact, St Vincent and the Grenadines did not participate in any competition/tournament outside of SVG for 2020, he disclosed.

“Had it not been for COVID, SVG would have definitely competed against the neighboring countries,” Matthews said.

Matthews believes though, that having the players involved in training sessions will keep them focused on their development, even as more players are exposed to the sport.

Notwithstanding the challenges that abound, the President is optimistic about 2021.

In this light he shared: “We will be hosting local tournaments in different parts of the island for Under-15 and Seniors every quarter. In addition, we will be looking, in the coming year, to restart the Get Into Rugby programme in schools. We also will be focusing on continuing to build an Under-19 team, strengthening our senior team and increasing the pool of certified coaches and referees.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020. 55.

Classifieds

NILA ALMENA JOHNSON SAUNDERS Sunday, 13th December, 2020 Rillan Hill Church of Nazarene Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

MALACHI MICAH THEOPHILUS CYRUS

LORNA VERONICA MC BARNETT

Wednesday, 16th December, 2020 Cathedral of the Assumption, Kingstown Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 15th December, 2020 6W 3DXO¶V $QJOLFDQ Church, Calliaqua Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m. ,QWHUPHQW 6W 3DXO¶V Anglican Church Yard

BENJAMIN PHILLIPS aka Arnold Jack

RITA EDWARDS LAWRENCE

PURUVIN JOSEPH aka Mary J.

Tuesday, 15th December, 2020 New Testament Church Wilson Hill, Kingstown Viewing 2:pm Service 3.00 pm Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Saturday, 12th December, 2020 St. David Anglican Church, Chateaubelair Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Church Yard

VELDA THEOCITA SMALL Sunday, 13th December, 2020 Owia Pentecostal Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment : Owia Cemetery

RODDEN GRAY GILMORE LEE Saturday, 12th December, 2020 International Worship Centre, Lauders Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Greggs Cemetery

Saturday, 12th December, 2020 Eleventh Hour Ministries, Byera Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Byera Cemetery MATTHEW SIMMONS Saturday, 12th December, 2020 Mt Zion Christian Faith Church, Sion Hill Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER

18, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.51

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

AMID COVID, JIMMY SAMUEL LIGHTS UP season.

He has won the coveted award for PERSONAL HEALTH challenges prevented Best Lit Private House on four Jimmy Samuel from lighting up his Rillan occasions, a testimony, he said, of his Hill home in 2019, but not even the hard work.

COVID-19 pandemic was going to cause So, Tuesday, December 15, after a repeat of last year. last year’s break, the lights were Samuel has been lighting up his officially turned on once again at home for some sixteen years. For him, Samuel’s residence in Rillan Hill. it is a labour of love, an undertaking The turnout of visitors in large aimed at bringing joy and splendor to numbers was “a joy and happiness to the community during the Christmas my heart,” said Samuel, especially as he reflected on not being able to light up his house last since, as he was overseas looking after his health.

“Thank God I am here to do it this year,” he declared.

He reiterated to THE VINCENTIAN that he was

by KENVILLE HORNE

overwhelmed by the number of persons who turnout on Tuesday.

“I am feeling very, very happy,” he said. “I am doing the COVID this year,” Samuel further noted, and he pointed to two manikins each wearing a mask, reflecting images of being doctors perhaps keeping an eye on Santa.

The Rillan Hill resident conceded that that he did not know how long he could continue lighting up his home.

He admitted to getting older and could not guarantee that his children would continue the tradition.

It takes Samuel and his work men, led by one Ashanti Ackee, five weeks to erect the lights and create designs that reflect the season and that “would look pleasing to the eyes,” Samuel said.

A special corner of Samuel’s home is And this annual ritual, even with given over to reminding about the its successes and the joy that it brings COVID-19 threat. to the community, is not without its challenges, including the expense associated with keeping the lights on and the destruction of the lights, as

A view of Samul’s premises that have been transformed to bring a Christmas feeling to his community.

Jimmy Samuel missed a year of lighting-up his home but he returned in 2020 with an even bigger bang. happened in 2013 when three quarter of his lights was made inoperable by the rains that pounded St. Vincent that Christmas.

But, deep down, it is the desire to spread joy and make people happy that keeps Jimmy Samuel going.

He could not help but repeat how overwhelmed, how he felt a “special happiness,” with Tuesday’s turnout, the smiles on the faces of children and adults alike and the sounds of his “buddies” playing dominoes.

“With all the pain in my knees, I still feel good,” he professed.

As Christmas Day approaches, Samuel is appealing to persons not to drink and drive “since life is precious.

He wishes all his “family, children and friends a very happy holiday. And all the news people, I wish you all a Merry Christmas.”

Editor’s Note: Jimmy Samuel has been a friend to the VINCENTIAN since his return from his sojourn abroad.

We at THE VINCENTIAN have been pleased to have him as a friend and think that he just might have been overlooked when apportioning recognition as far as private lighting –up ventures are concern.

Nothing pleases Samuel more than to know that those who come to view We take this opportunity to thank him for his continuing goodwill to the the lighting-up can also indulge in Rillan Hill community and look some past times like a domino forward to his lighting up for 2021. match.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.