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FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 19, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.08

www.thevincentian.com

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CONNELL CALLS OUT PM ON GANJA ISSUE

by HAYDN HUGGINS

DEFENCE LAWYER Grant Connell, a staunch advocate for the decriminalization of marijuana, has called on Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves to stand firm on the issue.

“If we are aiming in the direction of decriminalizing marijuana, there are sectors of the society who are going to be opposed to it. As we have seen, a church has already unleashed on the issue, not that they have any moral high ground from which to speak, but the Prime Minister is going to get some flak,” Connell told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday.

And in anticipation of this situation unfolding, Connell is advising the Prime Minister to, “Brace himself, stand firm, and be prepared for it.”

Assuring that “He (PM) has my full support,” he quipped that “You can’t

play mas and ‘fraid powder’.”

Connell was responding to comments Gonsalves made at a news conference on Monday, February 8, in response to a question from a journalist, on the lawyer’s request to the Minister of Health for permission to cultivate a legal marijuana plant on the compound of the Grassroot Tennis Club, of which Connell is director.

Gonsalves stated that a decision cannot be made just to satisfy Connell, citing, “You have to change the laws, you have to amend it, and you have to put certain things in place.”

He also pointed out that security arrangements would have to be made.

But Connell insisted that there was no need to amend the law, and has asked the Prime Minister to take a closer look at Section 9 of the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act of the revised laws of St. Vincent and the

Inset: Lawyer Grant Connell has called out the Prime Minister on his interpretation of certain sections of the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act. The Grassroot Tennis Club at Murray’s Road, where its Director, Grant Connell, proposes to put a marijuana plant on display.

An indication of the type of security (steel bar cage) that Connell suggests will be used to safeguard the plant.

Grenadines.

According to section 9 cap 284 of the Act, “The Minister may be regulation, except from section 5(1) (a) or (b), 6(1) (a) or (b) or 7 (1), such controlled drugs as may be specified in the regulations, and make such other provisions as he thinks fit for the purpose of making it lawful for persons to do things which under the following provisions of this Act, that is to say, sections 6 (1), 7 (1) and 8 (1), would otherwise be unlawful for them to do”.

Section 8 (1) which deals with cultivation, states, “Subject to any regulations under section 9 for the time being in force, it shall not be lawful for a person to cultivate any plant of this genus cannabis or to advise or encourage or counsel any other person or persons to do so”.

Connell noted that section 9 overrides section 8 (1), and suggested that, “With great respect, there may have been an oversight on the part of the Prime Minister when he said there must be amendments and changes in the law, in order to allow the cultivation of the marijuana plant of the genus cannabis.”

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Stephen Lashley, Barbados Sports Minister, presented Shimron Hetmyer, Captain of the West Indies U19 team, a trophy following the team’s victory in the 2016 ICC U19 World Cup Finals. Also in the photo are Conor Looney, CEO for Digicel Barbados, (inside far right) and Michael Muirhead, CEO of the West Indies Cricket Board (far right).

Conor Looney, CEO for Digicel Barbados, presents Chemar Holder, member of the West Indies U-19 cricket team, with his goodie bag.

DIGICEL fetes W.I. Under 19 cricket team

THE WORLD CHAMPIONS West Indies Under 19 Crcicket Team was feted

by Digicel Barbados at a welcome reception the company hosted, in collaboration with the West Indies Cricket Board, held at the Accra Beach Hotel on Tuesday, February 16, 2016.

In congratulating the delegation, Looney said, “Today is a historic day for you, for the sport of cricket, the eight countries that you represent and for the Caribbean people — and as a proud sponsor of West Indies cricket since 2004, Digicel is delighted to be a part of this celebration this evening.

“This victory augurs well for Digicel and for the region in a number of ways. For one, as a brand that supports

youth development through sports, this is a great motivator for the youths who aspire to cricket beyond national borders. Secondly, we know that cricket fans will take the energy, excitement and sense of pride from this thrilling victory into the fastapproaching 2016 Caribbean Premier League season.”

Looney continued, “Over the past few weeks, the region was proud to watch your journey in this tournament — a journey that has been exemplified by your grit and determination to win. You are a fine squad of hardworking young men, and you are a credit to the Caribbean region.”

CEO for Digicel Barbados, Conor Looney chats with Hon. Stephen Lashley, Minister of Family, Culture, Sports and Youth for Barbados, during the welcome reception.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 3.

News 3 Call for taxes to deal with NCDs

A CALL HAS BEEN MADE for legislation to be enacted as a measure to deal with the issue of noncommunicable diseases.

Dr Carissa Etienne, Director of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) made the point last Tuesday at the opening session of the annual meeting of the PAHO/ World Health Organization SubRegional Managers, held at the National Insurance Services (NIS) Conference Room.

According to Etienne, the Caribbean had done poorly, as individual CARICOM member

states failed to enact any of the terms agreed to at the Port-of-Spain Declaration in 2007.

Heads of Government at that meeting, made a decision to deal with the issue of noncommunicable diseases including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, obesity and cancer.

The declaration stated that Heads of Government were “fully convinced that the burdens of NCDs can be reduced by comprehensive and integrated preventive and control strategies at the individual, family,

community, national and regional levels and through collaborative programmes, partnerships and policies supported by governments, private sectors, NGOs and our other social, regional and international partners”.

However, Etienne said that, based on the evaluation, individual territories had not done well.

“So in this regard, I want to challenge the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines. We need to see legislation that is anti-tobacco; we need to see you implement some of what

was included in the Portof-Spain declaration,” she said.

She further suggested that taxes ought to be imposed on sugar and foods high in fat content.

“We need model legislation,” Etienne said.

“It does not help when I go to a restaurant in Dominica or to one in St Vincent and I ask for unsweetened juice, and I cannot get unsweetened juice, so now I am forced to drink sweetened juice, or water.”

Minister of Health, Luke Browne said in his presentation on Tuesday, that this country’s epidemiological file

indicated that the state has been able to address communicable diseases, but was Dr Carissa Etienne, Director of now grappling the Pan American Health with the challenging issue Organisation (PAHO), called out CARICOM governments for of nontheir poor response to the communicable enactment of plans agreed to in diseases.

“The gravity of the Port of Spain Declaration, 2007. the current epidemic of obvious,” Browne said. chronic nonDeaths due to NCDs communicable diseases, are said to account for and the burden it places about 76 percent of on citizens and on premature deaths, based national development, on 2013 data. (DDD) are immediately

Connell calls out PM on ganja issue

More money needed for health

Continued from Front page.

IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED that this country is not spending enough on health.

Dr Carissa Etienne, the Pan American Health Organisation’s (PAHO) Director said that in looking at this country’s national account investment, the “out of pocket” expenses for health care was a little too high.

“This is what impoverishes people, when you have to go and sell Health Officials heard the PAHO Director cite St. Vincent and the Grenadines as spending way below what was the accepted percentage of GDP on health care. a piece of land to access health “When I see your prime Conference Room, last Tuesday. services, then something is wrong She added that the government minister, I will tell him that…. with that system,” Etienne said at Because universal access to the opening of the annual meeting is currently spending about 2.4 health and universal health percent of the Gross Domestic of the PAHO/ World Health coverage is fundamental for Product (GDP) on health care, but Organization Sub-Regional development in your country,” this figure needed to increase.

Managers, at the National Etienne said.

The suggested minimum figure, Insurance Services (NIS) according to Etienne, is 6 percent.

Connell stressed that it is the Minister of Health, from whom he is yet to receive a response, who would have to grant permission under the same section, if foreign companies were to come here to cultivate marijuana for medicinal purposes.

“Why are we afraid to apply our own law?”, he questioned.

In relation to security, Connell said that in his letter to the Minister of Health, he assured that the plant, if permission is granted to be planted, would be well secured in a steel cage.

“It is nothing short of comic relief to envisage someone coming to the Grassroot Tennis Club with a blow torch and a hacksaw, knock out the security guard, cut a hole in the 5/8 steel cage, pull out the plant and run down the road”.

Connell pointed out that the amendments which are needed, are related to the sections on actual possession of marijuana, criminalizing those who are held with small quantities, which puts unnecessary burdens on the police and the judicial system, and creates criminal records for young offenders. He also stressed the need for amendments to allow Rastafarians to use the herb as part of their religious practice.

“I trust he (PM) would allow the Minister to deal with the issue, in relation to my request, and I patiently await his (Minister of Health) reply.

People want to see the plant. If permission is denied, so be it, the journey continues, but you can’t play mas and fraid powder,” Connell said.

V GSSS Young Leaders launched

4. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

THE GEORGE STEPHENS Secondary School (GSSS) launched its 2016 RBC Young Leaders project on Tuesday 16th.

This year’s Young Leaders programme is themed, ‘Me… You… We: A shared vision for a Better Society’, and the GSSS Young Leaders Kenville Horne addressed the Young Leaders on the need to pay attention to their personal development.

have adopted the sub theme, ‘Changing to enhance for a brighter future’.

Principal of the school, George Bristol, addressed the launch and exhorted the Young Leaders to give the world a message that they are changing (and ready) to influence a brighter future. He urged them to embrace inclusion and to

The GSSS 2016 Young Leaders Group. overcome prejudice, and to recognize the importance of God in their lives.

Bristol said he felt assured that when the project was complete that the students will improve overall. “Your minds will be strengthened; you will not be weaklings,” he said.

Feature speaker Kenville Horne, Staff Reporter with THE VINCENTIAN and 2015 Queen’s Young Leader Award recipient, addressed the issue of personal development.

According to Horne, it is attending to one’s personal development that will equip a person to help others and create a better society.

He reference to his own experience — coming from underprivileged beginnings, to starting a sports programme for youths, to receiving an award from Queen Elizabeth 11 - as a means of impressing upon the youths the importance of personal development.

For him, this year’s theme beckoned young persons to move beyond thinking about me, to

thinking about we, and this, he proffered, could result in building selfconfidence and selfesteem, and lead to an acceptance that respect for self and others, humility and a sense of camaraderie create better human beings.

Horne issued a warning to stay away from drugs, alcohol and risky sexual behaviour, since these vices do not enhance personal development.

“Too many of our nation’s youths are falling through the crack as a result of the use of drugs, and involvement in sexual activities, propelled by the vulgar and violent music they listen to. These are indeed hindrances to personal development, and act as a cloud preventing your light to enable a brighter future,” said Horne.

Like Principal Bristol, Horne emphasized the need to accept God into their lives, saying, “Many of us have turned away from God; we have embraced the devil, and now we are paying a heavy price. The rapid improvement in technology, while having tremendous advantages, has also increased the speed of our moral and spiritual demise,” he said.

Impressing upon the young leaders that they now have the important task of going out there to make a difference in their communities, country and the world, Horne advised, “This means that you have to realize your skills and qualities, consider your

Zhane Lewis, President of the 2016 GSSS Young Leaders. aims in life, and set goals in order to realize and maximize your potential.

“Always be confident in yourself, don’t be afraid to try, and even if you fail, you will learn from your failure. Pick yourself up and go again.

You have two hands, one to help yourself, the second to help others. If I can do it then I am sure, all of you can,” said the Young Leader to loud applauds.

President of the 2016 GSSS Young Leaders Zhane Lewis also delivered brief remarks in which she described the group’s programme as having a two-pronged approach: a direct outreach programme to other students to encourage their involvement in school activities; and interfacing with Parent Teachers Association to impart techniques for motivating children, The launch also witnessed performances from the Young Leaders, including a skit on teenage pregnancy.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 5.

Court

NDP Teacher- Candidates lose court battle

AN ARTICLE of the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed between the Government the SVG Teachers Union in 2005, is, in fact, superseded by Section 26(1) of the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

This was the (summarised) ruling handed down by Justice Brian Cottle last Monday.

Justice Cottle was considering a claim seeking to declare that Article 16 of the Bargaining Agreement did not contravene Section 26 (1) (d) of the constitution, which states inter alia, “no person shall be qualified to be elected or appointed as a representative or Senator…. If he… subject to such exceptions and limitations as may be

prescribed by Parliament, holds or is acting in any public office or is a paid member of any defence force of St. Vincent”.

Article 16 of the Bargaining Agreement accorded public officers, teachers included, the right to apply for leave-ofabsence for not more than six months, and without pay, to offer themselves as candidates in a general election.

The claim had been brought following the government’s refusal to reinstate three teachers, who had resigned their positions to contest the December 13, 2010 general election, as candidates for the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

The claim was laid in the name of Oswald

Robinson, president of the SVGTU, and the three teachers: Elvis Daniel — candidate for North Windward; Kenroy Johnson — candidate for North Central Windward; Addison Thomas — candidate for South Central Windward.

It also sought to have the court rule that the Government had ‘acted in bad faith’ when it refused to grant leave requested by the three teachers, to facilitate their contesting the general election.

The claim further asked the court to: direct the government to reinstate the teachers in the substantive teaching positions they held prior to the general election or to posts equivalent to those positions; and to award damages for losses

suffered as a consequence of failure to reinstate the teachers.

Admittedly, no official leave was ever granted by the Public Service Commission (PSC) when requested so to do by the teachers, and even though the PSC did communicate concerns with respect to the request - citing Section (26 (1)(d) of the Constitution - the three teachers resigned their positions and contested the elections.

The communication from the PSC is said to have reached the three persons concerned, some three days before nomination day.

Richard Williams, lawyer for the defence (government) argued that Article 16 of the Bargaining Agreement

Exeter to seek leave to appeal

by HAYDN HUGGINS OPPOSITION New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for the Central Leeward constituency, Benjamin ‘Ben’ Exeter, intends to seek leave to appeal High Court Judge Brian Cottle’s decision to refuse him leave to apply for judicial review, in relation to the revocation of his firearm licence, and for an order to have the licence, firearm and 50 rounds of ammunition returned to him forthwith.

Exeter’s lawyer, Emery Robertson, confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, that the applicant would be seeking leave to appeal the court’s decision.

Robertson, however, declined to comment further, saying that he did not want to be prejudicial in relation to the matter.

In a five-page written judgement delivered on Monday, Justice Cottle summarized, “The judicial review is a discretionary remedy. In the present case where no good reasons are advanced for failing to pursue the alternative forms of redress and absent any exceptional circumstances, I decline to grant leave to apply for judicial review.

The applicant must first exhaust the alternative forms of redress, and if he is still not satisfied he may then reapply for leave”.

The application was heard February 11 and 15, 2016.

Attorney Grahame Bollers represented the respondents -Godfred Pompey — Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security and Chairperson of the Firearms Licensing Board; Commissioner of Police Michael Charles and the Attorney General.

Exeter was in possession of his licensed firearm at an NDP protest outside the House of Assembly on December 29, where the newly elected were being sworn in following the December 9, 2015 general elections.

As events unfolded, the police arrested him, and the firearm was seized.

On the following day, he was handed a letter, addressed to him and signed by Pompey, informing him that his firearm licence was revoked with immediate effect.

The weapon was detained by the police.

Exeter, in his application, contended that he was given no reasons for the revocation, nor was he given an opportunity to be heard before the decision was taken to revoke his licence.

At the hearing of the application, the Court indicated to Exeter’s lawyer that only one issue was of concern to the court, and invited him to address the court on the issue of whether any alternative remedy to judicial review existed, and if so why it was

thought that judicial review proceedings were the most appropriate way to seeking redress.

The Civil Procedure Rules 2000 (CPR 2000) part 56.3 (3) (e) requires a person seeking leave to apply for judicial review to state in his application whether an alternative form of redress exists, and if so why judicial review is more appropriate or why the alternative had not been pursued.

In his application, the applicant stated, “There appears to be an alternative remedy of appeal to the Cabinet, but judicial review is more appropriate as what is in question is the exercise of executive authority, which could only be corrected by judicial intervention”.

Section 13 of the Firearms Act cap 386 as amended, allows a person aggrieved by a revocation of his firearm licence to appeal in writing to the Minister and thereafter to the cabinet, if not satisfied by the response of the Minister.

Cottle pointed out that, “The present applicant has opted to forgo these alternative remedies and has come directly to the court seeking leave to apply for judicial review.

Mr. Robertson was unable to explain to the court why the mere exercise of executive authority can only be corrected by judicial intervention”.

Justice Cottle made no order as to costs.

Benjamin ‘Ben’ Exeter has given indication, through his lawyer, that he intends to seek leave to appeal a High Court decision that refused his application for leave to apply for judicial review.

Justice Brian Cottle ruled that the applicant must explore and exhaust alternative forms of redress, and if still not satisfied, then he may apply for leave.

Eddison Thomas served as an acting Headmaster before entering active politics. was void and ‘offensive’ to Section 26(1) (d) of the Constitution.

He also advanced that government had no jurisdiction over the PSC, to wit that it could not direct that body to reinstate any officer, since the PSC enjoyed constitutional right of independence in its power to hire and fire.

Lawyers for the claimants — Ruggles Fergusson and Shirlan Barnwell — argued in favour of consideration of wider constitutional consideration, e.g. fundamental rights and freedoms (freedom of association, etc.)

But Justice Cottle, in his ruling, made clear the distinction between the Article 16 of the Bargaining Agreement and Section 26 (1) (d) of the Constitution.

Article 16 he described as ‘buttressing the right of association’, while the

Elvis Daniel was attached to the SVG Community College where he was known to be an outstanding Mathematics teacher.

Kenroy Johnson, a Curriculum Development specialist, contributed to creation of curricula for the OECS. latter was a clear prohibition of public officers offering themselves as candidates for political office.

Having set the parameters, Justice Cottle, prefacing his ruling with expressions of concerns of loss of benefits accrued over decades, in direct reference to the three teachers, ruled that the claim had no basis and dismissed it accordingly.

Nigerian’s fate prolonged

by HAYDN HUGGINS UYI OSUNDE, a 21-year-old Nigerian medical student, will have to wait a while longer to know his fate on a charge of deception.

When Osunde returned to the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne adjourned the matter to February 24, after issuing an order for the prosecution to disclose all relevant material to the case in 24 hours.

Osunde is charged that on December 2016, by deception, dishonestly obtained the sum of $10,000 in cash from Stacey DeFreitas of Villa, the property of the Bank of Nova Scotia, with intention of permanently depriving her of it.

The accused has maintained his innocence.

When he returned to court on Wednesday, his lawyer, Grant Connell, requested disclosure.

The Chief Magistrate indicated that she was in receipt of correspondence in relation to the issue of disclosure.

The matter was then stood down, and when it was resumed, Browne made the order for full disclosure within 24 hours.

When Osunde first appeared in Court in December, he was granted bail in the sum of $12,000, on condition that he report to the Central Police Station on Mondays and Fridays, and surrender his travel documents.

The Court had also ordered that stop notices be placed at all ports of exit.

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6. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Mosquito threat being tackled MINISTER OF HEALTH Luke Browne has re-emphasized the need for concern about the threat to the health of the public posed by mosquitos.

According to Browne, for some time now, residents in this country and across the region have had to deal with a number of viruses that are transmitted by the aedes aegypti mosquito, including the viruses that cause dengue, chikingunya and now Zika.

Browne, while addressing the opening ceremony of a two-day meeting for health subregional managers on Tuesday, said that his ministry was determined to do something about combating the threat.

He disclosed that this country’s response was in keeping with a coordinated approach agreed by the OECS as articulated in a recent

statement by Grenadian Prime Minister and Chairman of the OECS, Dr Keith Mitchell.

The OECS coordinated approach called for a focus on eliminating the breeding grounds of the aedes aegypti mosquito.

Other measures include the setting up of a strategic committee and staff to be deployed at the various clinics, the latter being tasked with conducting community level public education programmes related to the mosquito and the virus they carry.

The Ministry of Health is also expected to spearhead community clean up campaigns, and this has already been intensified with increase in frequency of fogging exercises.

“Arrangements have also been made for prenatal counselling for expectant mothers,” he

Minister of Health Luke Browne has given the assurance that his Ministry is taking a proactive approach to dealing with the viruscarrying aedes aegypti mosquito. said, in relation to a specific response to the threat of the Zika virus.

There have been no reports to date of the Zika virus in the state.

Roseau residents to tackle littering CONCERNED with the fact that their locale is among the top index for the breeding of mosquitoes in St Vincent and the Grenadines, residents of Roseau, Sion Hill, have vouched to address the problem of littering.

The decision to tackle the issue was made Saturday 6th February, 2016, Residents of Roseau have committed to a collective during an effort to deal with a particular case of irresponsible interfacing with garbage disposal in their community. officials of the Ministry of Health, control.

Wellness and the Environment, at the Epidemiologist Dr Rosmond Adams, Word Faith Ministries Church located in there for that purpose, spoke of an “allBottom Roseau. out society approach” to the threat.

Each of the persons in attendance Adams said that, apart from the promised to continue taking care of various clean-up efforts, the fogging and his/her immediate surroundings, with the likes, the usual port health protocols one vocal member of the audience, have been stepped up with greater Jacqueline Bramble, imploring her vigilance. fellow villagers, stating, “We have to The Epidemiologist noted that, take responsibility.” although Zika has been around since the Bramble’s comments came as she late 1940s, studies are ongoing as to chided others in the area for their habitual disposal of garbage in a gutter, whether or not a person can be infected with the Zika virus more than once. which runs through the Bottom Roseau He compared this Chikungunya, settlement. which surfaced here in 2014 to some Acknowledgement of this, led to an degree of alarming proportions, saying agreement to embark on a collective that “you would notice that there have cleaning campaign, on a date to be not been any (Chikungunya) reported in announced.

2015 and 2016, because the majority of Calls were also made by residents to have the Litter Act enforced which, they people became immune to ChickV.” No case of Zika has yet been reported cited, must be preceded by mass public here, but neighbour Barbados has education of its content. reported at least three cases there.

The Zika virus is spread by the Aedes Zika focus Aegypti mosquito.

Fever, rash, joint pains and The meeting was called with the conjunctivitis (red eye) are listed as the original purpose of informing residents most common symptoms of Zika. about the Zika virus, its spread and

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 7.

News

Further decrease in fuel surcharge CUSTOMERS of VINLEC continue to benefit from falling oil prices on the world market. The Company is recording another record low Fuel Surcharge Rate for the month of February, in the amount of 18.48 cents per unit.

This month’s rate represents a decline of 2.23 cents per unit, or 11% from the January figure. Furthermore, the Fuel Surcharge rate applicable on bills this month has fallen by 42% from February 2015. Over the sixteen months, the Fuel Surcharge on VINLEC’s electricity bills has been on the decline, primarily because of the downward trend in fuel prices on the world market. VINLEC wishes to highlight that these savings have been passed on to customers, as reflected on electricity bills.

A similar rate in the range of 18 cents per unit was applied on electricity bills twice in the May and June of 2003, some thirteen years ago.

VINLEC wishes to emphasise that the Fuel Surcharge Rate applied on electricity bills is a reflection of the price of fuel on the international market. The Company also wishes to highlight that the Fuel Surcharge Rate varies from month to month, depending on the price of fuel that VINLEC buys to produce electricity.

The Company reiterates the need for customers to be energy efficient despite the Fuel Surcharge Rate. Be reminded that the final bill amount depends on how much energy is utilized.

Sergeant Brenton Smith graduates SERGEANT of Police Brenton Smith, who recently graduated in the United Kingdom with a Master of Science in Police Leadership and Management, is hoping he will get the opportunity to utilize his training, in helping to transform the Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force in a positive way.

Sergeant Smith graduated from Leicester University on January 21st, 2016, after completing his studies, which concentrated on sociological and biological theoretical perspectives of policing; policing and crime prevention; leadership and management; research methods; community policing and police leadership within the 21st century.

His thesis was done on the topic: ‘The Effectiveness of the Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force in Reducing Murders’.

“It is a humbling feeling. It is also a proud feeling because I am hoping that persons within the organization who have studied will make the organization a better place and serve the organization better,” said Sergeant Smith, who did the programme over a two-year period.

He also used the Sergeant Brenton Smith opportunity to encourage MSc - Police Leadership other police officers to and Management. pursue higher education

through Leicester University or other universities, which offer programmes in a wide array of law enforcement subjects.

“One should also remember it does not lead to benefitting one’s self alone, but the country,” said Sergeant Smith.

Sergeant Smith is thanking God for helping him to complete his programme, and dedicated his achievement to his first born, Patreka Smith.

“When I was in Form Five, I had my first child. I was allowed to do my subjects, but not allowed to graduate,” he intimated, adding, “That was painful.”

He also expressed thanks to his mother, Merle Smith, for her contribution to his development.

The Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force congratulates Sergeant Smith, and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

(Contribution)

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8. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial Political truth is corrupted HAVE WE EVER, as we continue on the path of building what some call a genuine Caribbean Civilization, stopped to ponder on the relationship between political truth and its value in the current political milieu?

Maybe this is too heavy a dose of medicine to even consider and it would be easier to simply conclude, and correctly so, that any such reflection would be a laborious undertaking with which we can do without. But that, as said, is the easy way out and in conceding defeat, before we even begin, is to give in to the political order of the day with which so many are at variance.

Who among us will agree that there is a contradiction between what we accept as morality and the action of politicians? Then again, perhaps we are unable to form an opinion on this score because the relationship between the two has never been made clear to us, or if it has, it has not been in concrete terms.

Yet we abound with commentary, with all its different points of departure, some realising, others not, that all of the ‘talk’ comes together to comprise a debate about the objectivity of truth.

Because, if we assume that we speak honestly about our politics, we have got to accept truth as an objective reality in the people’s lives.

Sadly, this has become corrupted over time, given the narrow agendas that drive politicians and their organizations; and is borne out when our ‘discussions’ about and around national interests, public welfare, freedom of citizens, equal rights, etc. are continually abused by political handshakes.

In accepting same, we abrogate our say in the decision-making process, our say in important sociocultural and political events and decisions to the political elites, who, it appears from what we have experienced and are experiencing, are motivated for their own selfish interests.

It seems that we have all but ignored the adage that politics cannot be separated without considering its own moral structures, for the picture today of our reality is that our moral structures of which we speak so much, have been devalued to nought, and no longer have any justification for our case.

In our political status-quo, the truth has for too long been hidden (from us), and instead of being in control of our own destiny, we stumble on lies, accept them as we go down, and ignore the facts of

reality, allowing politicians to do whatever they believe and whatever they want.

Decisions ambiguously are taken in accordance with the need of politicians to create delusions that they are impeccable policy makers, and in the process political theories and facts, concepts, and practices fail, because we have allowed the politicians to fail us.

So we step back and pessimistically face the current political reality, stuck with hidden values and perceptions, and we become more skeptical with each passing day.

We see all the evidence but because there is no truth in our objective reality — because we don’t see the disguised modern dictatorships, some say rigged polls, political manipulation of the media authorities — we don’t see that our reality serves the political elites first.

Generation after generation of humankind has grappled with the question: How can we reconcile politics and morality? We are no different. But instead of continuing to grapple with the age old question, so as to maintain our place in the decision-making process, we sadly resign ourselves to being led.

Even as we lay subservient to the political elite, we dream of political utopias and utopian governments, and allow those who promise to fulfil our dreams to continue without moral questions.

It is time that we come to a realization that we do not need a hope-monger preaching for us, or those who hunt for public office with their pompous street speeches, or business magnates who serve political marginalization of morality, or political demagogues of tycoons, religious leaders and orators.

We need the bare truth served by policy makers steeped in intelligent and moral capabilities, and a proper sense of morality and transparency in the policy making process.

Ironically, the dirty hands of democracy often win a misguided mass moral consciousness because its justice is played out in a (this) dark age. Yet, we continue to pretend that the game is being properly played, and we clap along for the players who misguide all the moves.

Are we still standing? Are we prepared to demand the truth?

Until such time as genuine moral structures determine our political culture, we are doomed to the unrealistic, prejudiced truth of a political elite.

Jomo again SEVERAL YEARS ago, Jomo Thomas had publicly proclaimed that his People’s Movement for Change (P.M.C) would be prepared to face elections against the two Giants, cost it what it may. I had heard far better cocks crow that short-lived line before.

Historically, for better or usually for worse, the country seems wedded to the two-party system, “till death do us part”!

That is the reason that Ralph had to link his M.N.U to a mainstream party, and keep the label “Party” as in ULP. After two more years of frustration, Jomo was advised to do likewise. The emergence of his movement to control Government was a No-No in this environment. It could never have happened. An examination of the horns of PMC’s membership exposed them to be closed ideologues disguised U.L.Pites, who enjoyed the flow but did not want to get their feet wet. The PMC would go the way of most “Third Parties” in SVG, and merely add to the statistic of infant mortality rate that only showed their head to get it lopped off.

Besides, Jomo almost gave away his position as virtually representing the lost soul of U.L.P. Indeed, Jomo is personally so biased in favour of the U.L.P, that he becomes purblind to their many misdeeds which he recounts easily.

I hoped then that Jomo might consider enlisting in the NDP whose tent is mighty broad, and whose leadership is democratic to a fault, and would accommodate the “independence” of Jomo, within reason.

But Jomo has joined the ULP which right now is in dire need of promising souls. Frankly, Jomo does not fit the mould of the bossism of ULP, and I wrote that his entry was a case of the fly innocently entering the parlour of the spider. We shall wait and see!

Jomo’s and the P.M.C’s problem is that they cannot believe that the U.L.P has totally degenerated into being the personal vehicle to power and wealth of Ralph Gonsalves and his entourage.

Sadly, the P.M.C has trapped itself in an intellectual cul-de-sac. Someone is badly needed to bell the cat whose ring hopefully will wake them up from their directionless sleep-walking.

Jomo Thomas Follows Kenneth John (by Alpha J. Simmons “The Vincentian” 10/5/2008) “Since 1979, Dr. Kenneth John has had a fixation on Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, even though the Comrade was then a struggling politician but evidently headed for the big time, based on the high quality of his political, academic, and professional work. Kenneth John would go to his grave fixated about Ralph. History will record the Comrade’s achievements. Ken John

will barely merit a footnote.

A similar fixation has gripped Mr. Jomo Thomas. Any article critical of him, he assumes to have been penned by Ralph. Ken John thought the same thing.

Dr. John has even repeatedly written the lie that many of Caspar London’s articles are drafted by Ralph. If Jomo does not watch it, he is likely to end up as politically frustrated as Kenneth. At least Kenneth has in his favour more genuine erudition and elegance of style in writing.

Both Jomo and Kenneth have allowed their vanities and their undeveloped political consciousness to get the better of them. They are thus led objectively into positions of political backwardness, despite their attempted progressive gloss.

It is really sad. Jomo is still redeemable because he is younger, but father time is rushing on. He must grow up and be serious. If not, he would remain at the political margin”.

So Ralph has now “redeemed” Jomo. As to Kenneth headed for the grave, his epitaph “will barely merit a foot-note” Amen! Are readers misled as to who is the real author of this note by Alpha Simmons, my foot!.

Ralph really promoted Jomo to keep him silent outside the House, and to lessen his chances in his successor’s race, even though Jomo has expressed genuine disinterest in this regard.

But Jomo will talk as it pleases him.

Already, the departure from ULP testament could be highlighted: the loss of the three NDP teachers case has been branded, in so many words, as political victimisation pure and simple; Bigger Biggs’ case is a clear example of the viciousness of victimisation; National Heroes Day can conceivably be celebrated this National Heroes Day 14th March 2016, with a complement of Chatoyer plus Mc Intosh, Joshua, and Doc Parmenos Eustace, but minus Cato, whom Gonsalves wanted ,but Jomo et al rejected out-of-hand; integrity legislation could see the light of day with Jomo presiding, having been blocked by the ULP for 15 long years! And so on.

The new Speaker will face unspeakable horrors unless he acts like his predecessor, Hendrick Alexander. The more things vary, the more they remain the same.

Finally, “Alpha Simmons” once had both of us in similar if not the same boat.

In fact, he paid respect to my writing style which Jomo called word smith.

Anyway, I was beyond redemption on account of old age. Jomo you were still redeemable and you have now entered the period of rehabilitation. Honestly, I wish Jomo all the best.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 9.

Letters

Let us pursue happiness A BROTHER, who called in to one of our popular radio programmes recently, stated that, “Happiness is what we are pursuing”. Indeed, that is an excellent mission statement, I think.

This sad situation in Canouan reminds me of some concerns I had expressed some time ago, on the subject of ‘development’. For too long now, the view has been, that development means the construction of impressive new edifices, in the process of which, jobs are created; and to do this with urgency, small island states like ours are induced to concede, that we must bend over backwards to accommodate expatriates who come to us with their schemes, which promise to provide significant employment for our people. Many of the schemes have been short-lived and disappointing.

So it is ludicrous to allow the persons to whom we have given such welcome to our shores, to flagrantly intrude on the rights of the people, the citizens, to freely enjoy their patrimony in peace. In that regard, these “developments”, may in fact be crippling us psychologically, thus robbing us from the enjoyment of a greater “development” which could be naturally ours thirty or forty years down the road.

Certainly, the current happenings in Canouan, do not seem to represent sign posts of the road we had embarked on in the “conscious season” of 20002001.

In that period, we thought we were on a determined march towards the upliftment of our people. That was the spirit captured in an article in the Searchlight newspaper of 2nd June 2000, ‘No turning back now’ by Renwick Rose. The concluding paragraph reads: “That means that the ODD which raised our hopes and expectations has a ‘Sacred Responsibility to be active’, to hold all the signatories to their commitment to work with the Christian Council, to persuade Caricom and the OECS to ensure, that the Council is provided with the capacity to fulfill its mandate”.

In those days, we seemed to be energetically in pursuit of happiness. Given today’s reality, the admonishment by Dr. Gonsalves during his recent press conference is pertinent, - “When promises are made we must exert ourselves to effect them”. His example will be helpful. So now, “let happiness be what we are pursuing”.

LeRoy Providence

The right to an opinion ISN’T THE PRIME MINISTER of this country not entitled to his own opinion? Isn’t he a citizen like any one of us? If he is, then why are we castigating the man for his opinion on SVG TV? If this is the way the man feels about SVG TV, that is his opinion, which we can either accept or not. But this is different than what I have seen and heard happening. Instead of simply not accepting the opinion, we have gone a step further and accused him of attacks on journalists and the media in general.

Whether or not what the Prime Minister thinks about SVG TV is not here nor there. What is important is that the man has an opinion, and he has the right to express it.

Pity that the journalist at the other end of the recent exchange had to take it so personal.

And that is my opinion, to which I am entitled.

Traveller

One step forward, two steps ……

MR. EDITOR, the things I have heard coming from political platforms in recent years, have got to be some of the most slanderous things you could ever hear about ‘other people’.

Call it what you want, call it political piccong or just plain politricking, but the truth is that a lot of what has come from those platforms, leave a lot to be desired.

My recollections date back to the heyday of the Joshua-Cato clashes, when one was ‘Cucumber Heel Joshua’ and the other ‘Big Head Mc Goffy’. We all, if I may admit, had our doses of hearty laughter, but that is as far as that went.

But in recent years, the attacks from the political platforms have

become so personal and knife-edged that I wonder why certain people have not taken to suing other persons.

Correct me if I am wrong, but the way things look, it appears that you have to get into government before you can think of suing anyone. Is that a case of hiding behind the state apparatus? I think not.

The recent history of our political campaigns have shown a marked decrease in craft and seriousness. Manifestos have become works of art — graphically and textually — but the utterances from political rostrums have degenerated into slime; and political meetings as we knew them, are things of the past; we

now have ‘political’ concerts’ where foreign artistes take out thousands of dollars to lend their support to the political party that can afford them.

I say all of that to say, that the more we seem to take one step forward, we take two backwards.

And because those who would want to lead us advertise such tendencies, the people swallow them as the correct things to do, especially in their dealings with one another. It is so bad now, that even the basic manners that we were taught as children, have all but gone out of the door. Try telling a worker at one of those over-stuffed stores good

Appealing to our youth MR. EDITOR, I refer to your editorial piece entitled ‘Our youth debacle’, carried in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper of Friday 5th February, 2016.

Your assessment and evaluation of the scenarios confronting our youthful population were comprehensive and timely. I too exhort parents and teachers alike to review that editorial and draw serious lessons from it.

“Children must not play with edge tools”, I could hear my mother warning my younger sibling and me many years ago. The social media (Facebook at al) is, in my humble view, a dangerous communication tool, which young people seem to use to spread perverted information.

Facebook should be used as a medium to share constructive and educational messages; but instead, it has become a

fashionable medium for salacious James gossip, slander and defamation of character.

There were and still are some worthwhile public ventures being undertaken by government and nongovernmental sectors across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Posting these projects on one’s Facebook page for the world to view, would be selling * Has there St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a been a change viable tourist destination. in the formula used Those young people who may come for calculating the across this piece, I implore you to use pensions paid by the NIS? your Facebook page to promote the positive, not the negative; and perhaps * Can anyone say a review of the editorial of Friday 5th when a replacement of THE VINCENTIAN newspaper may will be named to change your perspectives on life. replace La Celia Prince as this Patmos Richards country’s Ambassador to the USA and Ambassador to the OAS? Will it be this success as just another cog in his another female? learning curve, which we hope is still * Will masquerade on the upward projector. He will bands for this year’s need to take this success and build on Vincy Mas not be it, and one way of doing that is to parading at Victoria avoid those elements who furnish the Park? If that is so, most mouth but hardly ever have where will they be anything positive and constructive to judged? offer. * Is there something My advice to Pope is to seek out unfair about unsucthe positive elements - people like the cessful candidates level-headed Mike Findlay, for the winning experienced cricketer/person like party getting Winston Davis in his wheelchair in handsomely paid England, and sober people like Lennox John who can help with his government jobs, personal development. while some teachers In today’s world of cricket, the who contested game is played not only with the bat unsuccessfully for and the ball, but with the head and the opposition have personal disposition. Pope will do been denied a well to avoid distracting elements as return to their he focuses on even greater heights in substantive West Indies and World cricket. positions? Donkey say the world not Charles level, eh?

Pope must avoid negative elements I WANT TO OFFER special congratulations to Gidron Pope on the outstanding role he played in helping the West Indies cricket team win the U19 World Cup, played in Bangladesh. I also want to extend congratulations to the rest of the team.

It is always heartening, Mr. Editor, when one of the ‘boys from the small islands’ do well when they get a chance to represent the West Indies in cricket. I know that times might have changed, but I recall when it would have taken 100 times the effort made by a ‘big island boy’, for a ‘small island boy’ to make any level of West Indies cricket teams.

I am well aware that there is so much more cricket being played today, and if we are to stick our necks out, agree that cricket is being played on a more even playing field.

But still, when a ‘small island boy’ does well, we have to recognise it, in a special kind of way.

Let us hope that Pope will take

morning, and tell me what you think.

Time that our leaders accept that their behaviour has all but set us back in time. Time that they preach real repect by having respect for one another.

Remember, it is the little things that will make us men and women, not the ranting and raving to see who say the loudest and worse things about another.

V

10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The traffickers and Customs duties De-politicizing the media in St. Vincent and the Grenadines The issue OVER THE LAST two years or so, there has been much discussion on the use of the media in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly as this applies to political issues, and by extension, to political parties. The discussion has been robust in some cases, and partisan in others, as persons try to justify this or that position. Many persons have had their say, including politicians, media workers, members of the clergy, lawyers, and other influential members in the society.

St.Vincent and the Grenadines is blessed with a plethora of radio stations, three newspapers, and one on-air television station. In addition there are several internet radio units operating here, and at least one organization that produces a news cast on cable. In particular, because of the rise in the use of the internet, the use of social media as a conveyor of news and public opinion, has exploded.

It is a fact that the ULP administration has encouraged and facilitated the expansion of the broadcasting sector in the country.

Under the ULP, more licences were issued, or re-newed, for FM stations.

Under the ULP, a deliberate effort has been made to expand the reach and affordability of the internet, and the usage has exploded. The special computer programme initiative by the ULP, to put laptops in the hands of primary and secondary school students, was essential in this regard.

have committed themselves to its provisions. Maybe these media officials need to get out their licences and re-acquaint themselves with the conditions of the document. In this way, they may be able to return to the professional tenets of their profession.

The ULP approach

The ULP administration is committed to democracy, and to the freedom of the media in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This is borne out by a recent report by Freedom House, the international agency that ranks countries based on the level of press freedom. In 2015, Freedom House gave the country top marks: one for freedom rights, one for political rights, and one for civil liberties. This is on a scale of one to seven, where one is the highest and ranks as the highest ranking in terms of freedom of the media.

In 2014, Freedom House ranked St. Vincent and the Grenadines at 17th, among world countries in terms of press freedom. This compares favourably with other Caribbean countries, like Barbados 18th, St. Kitts and Nevis 20th, and Trinidad and Tobago 25th. There must be something good being done in our country when it comes to press freedom and democracy, despite the Role of the Media naysayers.

The number of media conferences The ULP administration is fully committed to the media playing a full held by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, is now approaching the and meaningful role in our society.

400 mark, a clear indication of his The ULP recognizes that the media, commitment to keep the people of this also called the “fourth estate”, is an country informed, about the plans of important pillar in the democratic process, as important as the judiciary, his government. He is open to the media to answer any questions about the executive and the parliament. In the work of his administration. Other our country, it has a duty to create members of the government have a and shape public opinion, and to similar commitment. Indeed, the ULP strengthen our society through enriched debates on matters of public has established its own radio station, Star Fm, to aid in the dissemination policy. The media also has a role to play in protecting our society against of information, all in the process of creating a better understanding injustice, oppression, misdeeds and among Vincentians, about the policies partiality. of the ULP. But for this to happen in our society, our media practitioners and Conclusion the owners and operators, must subscribe to certain principles. Of Amidst all the expressed concerns paramount importance must be adherence to the truth and facts, and from the general public, about the operations of media houses here, the a commitment to fairness and a lack ULP administration has adopted an of bias. Too often, we allow these even hand approach, preferring to important characteristics to go down the drain, because of narrow, partisan allow the media houses to use “self and political interest. As a result, the censorship”, rather than interfering in the process of press freedom. By and listeners and readers are “short changed”, and they do not get the best large this has worked, but recently, there has been an upsurge of information available, to allow them impartiality among certain sections of to participate fully, in matters of the media. national interest.

This is undesirable. In some cases, There are so many examples that ULP officials including Prime we can point to, in this regard, some Minister Gonsalves, have had to chide of which are very distasteful, and media houses and journalists for their disrespectful to their audiences. This should be corrected. It is important to reporting. In fact one media house has remind all about the provisions of the had to face defamation proceedings in the court, for their statements in licences under which they broadcast. relation to the Prime Minister. The In Section 13.2 of the licence, the country needs a media that reports owners of radio stations have accurately and fairly without bias, committed themselves to avoid even if it supports another political sedition or seditious statements, refrain from publishing false news or party. The ULP is not above criticism, and endorses and encourages public statements likely to cause fear and discussion on policy matters. But alarm in the society, criminal libel there must be an application of truth, and abusive language. facts, and balance to these By accepting the licence, the owners and operators of media houses discussions.

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) warned the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime about the implications of the amendment to the Customs Duties Act that was made in parliament last year.

Today, the traffickers are complaining of the difficulties they are experiencing in their trade with Trinidad, since the amendment to the Customs Duties Act was implemented immediately following the December 9th, 2015 general elections.

The following is the Honourable Daniel Cummings’s contribution to the debate on the amendment of the Customs Duties Act: “Mr. Speaker, I just want to bring the House attention to a concern, a serious concern. I understand the CARICOM decision, which was taken a long time ago and was not implemented for whatever reason by member states, is just about to be implemented. I understand the intention is to assist. I am saying; I understand the decision was taken a long time ago by the Treaty of Chaguaramas, with the intention of protecting industries in the smaller islands. Although it was decided years ago, it has not been implemented in several countries for whatever reason. Well, Mr. Speaker, I just want to bring the House attention to a matter that has been brought to our attention, by a number of small business operators and traffickers. It is this: we understand how this would impact, and I will use an example of Busta and Ju-C - Busta from Trinidad and Ju-C which is just established here. It would give Ju-C which has just invested a lot of money, an opportunity to do better in the market place.

But the reality, Mr. Speaker, Honourable members (is) a number of traffickers go to Trinidad. Because there is a difficulty with the Trinidad currency and the exchange rate, and all that they carry down is agriculture produce and they get paid in TT dollars. They cannot bring back the TT dollars, (so), they buy Busta and other products and they bring them back and sell them.

My fear for a number of these small traffickers is that if you do what you are going to do, their business would be cut out; it would be no longer.

When you move from 20 or 25 to 70 percent duty, that changes the whole game plan for them. It is not a small change; it’s a major change and I wonder. I have been advised by a number of them that the Ministry of Trade had some small briefing with them…., drop it on them and they raised their concerns. So I am surprised that isn’t mentioned here because it is a serious matter and it has implications for the ability to sell agricultural produce to the very big, relatively, market in Trinidad. It is a big demand for VINCY produce in Trinidad despite the fact that they are doing so well, relatively, in agriculture.

So Mr. Speaker, I just want to bring the point to the attention of the House because it has implications, not just for the traffickers. I want to make it abundantly clear too, we understand and appreciate the need to help our fledging companies like ECGC to be able to do well in our own market in the OECS. But we need to be cognizant of the implication. When you sell your produce in Trinidad you can’t bring TT dollars in St. Vincent and the Grenadines; they have no value. The only way that trade will continue is if they can buy products in Trinidad and bring them up.”

Private Sector Development

It is well established fact that in an open market economy, a thriving private sector is the foundation of a growing economy. The illegitimate ULP regime however, appears not to understand this basic fact. Evidence of this is seen in the fact that this government owes the private sector an amount which has accumulated to the order of EC $60 million; a crippling burden for a private sector already weighed down by some of the highest energy prices in the Caribbean.

The NDP’s position is that the debt to the private sector must be paid. An NDP government will establish a Ministry of the Private Sector to facilitate the development and expansion of private industry. We will immediately set up a working committee mandated to prepare an urgent plan for the repayment of this debt. We consider that Small and Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs) are a critical factor in economic growth, and we will create the conditions that will enable SMEs to play a major role in entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation.

Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) In order to create the environment in which Small and Medium Sized Enterprises will thrive, the NDP will: * End the competition between government enterprises and SMEs; * Adopt and pursue appropriate fiscal and employment policies to promote an optimal economic environment; * Improve the attractiveness of entrepreneurship; * Remove the constraints to the development of and growth of SMEs through: the establishment of a Development Bank to provide funding and financial support for SMEs; * The establishment of a government sponsored laboratory and of (ii) a Scientific Research Council to provide technical assistance for all new and expanding enterprises; * The establishment of a Bureau of Standards; * Provide fiscal incentives; * Fostering strategic alliances between Vincentians and foreign companies to gain knowledge about market entry and export led activities.

The role of the Ministry of the Private Sector The Ministry of the Private Sector will identify and seek to develop or expand a range of direct and indirect support services for SMEs, including: * Business pre-start, start -up and development assistance; * Business plan development and follow up; * Business incubators - legal, accounting, and financial services; * Information services, including advice on government policies; * Advice on the effective application of information communication and business technologies to the business process; * Consultancy and research services; * Managerial and vocational skills enhancement; * Promotion and development of enterprise-based training; * Support and training in occupational safety and health, and offer assistance in a number of other areas.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 11.

Views

A Good Teacher (Part 2 of 2)

“It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” – Albert Einstein (1875-1955) German-born American theoretical physicist, Theories of Relativity, philosopher.

IN LAST WEEK’S publication, we examined the first five of the ten requirements of a good teacher as presented by Professor Richard Leblanc of York University. Dr. Leblanc, an experienced and accomplished educator, was awarded the Seymous Schulich Award for Teaching Excellence in 1998. His insights in relation to achieving teaching excellence can be found in the 1998 publication entitled The Teaching Professor (Volume 12, # 6). The final five guidelines are presented in this article. However, all ten can be found at the website: http://biz.colostate.edu/mti/tips/pages /GoodTeaching.aspx 6. GOOD TEACHING is about humor. This is very important. It’s about being self-deprecating and not taking yourself too seriously. It’s often about making innocuous jokes, mostly at your own expense, so that the ice breaks, and students learn in a more relaxed atmosphere where you, like them, are human with your own share of faults and shortcomings.

7. GOOD TEACHING is about caring, nurturing, and developing minds and talents. It’s about devoting time, often invisible, to every student.

It’s also about the thankless hours of grading, designing or redesigning courses, and preparing materials to further enhance instruction.

8. GOOD TEACHING is supported by strong and visionary leadership, and very tangible instructional support resources, personnel, and funds. Good teaching is continually reinforced by an overarching vision that transcends the entire organization, from full professors to part-time instructors, and is reflected in what is said, but more importantly by what is done.

9. GOOD TEACHING is about mentoring between senior and junior faculty, teamwork, and being recognized and promoted by one’s peers. Effective teaching should also be rewarded, and poor teaching needs to be remediated through training and development programs.

10. AT THE END OF THE DAY, good teaching is about having fun, experiencing pleasure and intrinsic rewards…like locking eyes with a student in the back row, and seeing the synapses and neurons connecting, thoughts being formed, the person becoming better, and a smile cracking across a face as learning all of a sudden happens. It’s about the former

student who says your course changed her life. It’s about another telling you that your course was the best one he’s ever taken. Good teachers practice their craft, not for the money or because they have to, but because they truly enjoy it and because they want to. Good teachers couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

Dr. Leblanc’s guidance to teachers becomes especially useful to those who will strive to impart knowledge with distinction. However, while the focus has been on providing useful guidelines to those who are engaged in imparting knowledge in the formal or classroom setting, the instructions also become useful for parents, guardians, and well wishers. After all, we all engage in aspects of teaching on a regular basis. We teach when we are not teaching.

Teaching and learning should be fun. Students can learn even the most mentally challenging (or boring) subject areas, when the teacher demonstrated passion and provides evidence that they have exerted effort and energy to prepare their material.

Many readers can attest to this fact when they pause to reminisce about those teachers who influenced them most.

The teachers who are “called” to the profession, are likely to be passionate, and appear to be always totally prepared. They love what they do. In so many instances, they exert the effort and energy because of the intrinsic rewards they generate.

There is a strong, deep sense of achievement when they observe that their efforts bear fruit. However, there are some (many) who enter the teaching profession because there were no opportunities in their desired field of employments. Others function as teachers as a stopgap — until “better employment” is available or a space opens up for them to continue their academic pursuit. There is nothing inherently wrong with that.

However, even those teachers who are “in transit”, are required to give of their very best. Leblac’s ten-point guidelines will therefore be considered invaluable to these “conduits of knowledge” also.

Albert Einstein’s reminder that, “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge”, fuels us to be bastions of Professor Leblac’s teaching best practice. Our classrooms, schools, and our society at large, will be more effectively and efficiently run when we do so. Good teachers have a positive influence on the world!

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

‘Standing on the shoulders of giants’ MALCOLM X was fond of saying, “Our history did not begin in chains.” Yet every year, that’s where Black History Month lesson plans in schools begin.

They begin telling the story of our history — black history — in chains.

Young black school children don’t learn that our people mapped, calculated and erected some of the greatest monuments ever, like the pyramids, the sphinx and the obelisks, or that our people were literally the lifeblood of some of history’s greatest civilizations. They don’t learn that calculus, trigonometry and geometry all trace their origins back to African scholars.

Black History Month lessons never begin with Haile Selassi I, ruler of Ethiopia, who could trace his ancestry to King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, and beyond that to Cush in 6280 B.C. Never mind that Selassi actually has the most ancient lineage of any human being in history.

Black History Month lessons certainly never begin with one of the greatest conquerors the world has ever known, Hannibal, an African, who conquered and extended the rule of his African Empire into Italy and Spain.

The lessons about our history don’t even begin with the kingdoms of Mali, Songhai, Cush or Ghana, all of which rivaled the dominance and territorial acquirement of ancient Greece or Rome. They don’t begin by teaching school children about the ancient Egyptians, who were clearly black Africans and who had arguably the most influential civilization of all time.

Ever heard of the Ishango bone?

What about the Lebombo bone?

They’re only two of the most important developments in the history of mathematics. The Lebombo bone, dating back to around 37,000 B.C., was one of the first calendars ever created, and the Ishango bone has been called “The oldest testimonial of numerical calculus” in human history.

Both were created by Africans.

Our history isn’t taught in popular culture and it is absent from the history that most teachers deem to be important. That’s why Black History Month was created. It wasn’t a chance to glow over the achievements we’ve heard about time and time again, and to recount stories of Africa’s majesty.

Black History Month was a time to bring to light the stories of people from Africa who have contributed so much to whom and what we all are today in human society.

When Carter G. Woodson (Miseducation of the Negro) created Negro History Week in 1926, his goal was to teach children and adults throughout the African Diaspora about the proud history and tradition that Africans have. He wanted to teach young boys and girls in the U.S. and around the world, that Africa was and is so much more than people living in huts, hunting lions and dancing around campfires. He wanted all people to know and understand that being African was not something to be ashamed of, but instead should be a point of pride and confidence.

Woodson, one of the first black men ever to graduate with a Ph.D from Harvard, doing so in 1912, was devoted to teaching all people about the contributions in our society that come from Africa and Africans, and it

pains me to say, so far we have failed in his mission.

If you don’t believe me, find anyone still in school, and ask them to tell you something about black history that predates the slave trade.

During the month of February, you can generally count on lessons to begin with some sanatized retelling of a black historical figure like Frederick Douglass, the great orator who counseled Abraham Lincoln and wrote numerous articulate and moving tomes about his life as a slave. Or they’ll begin with Abraham Lincoln “freeing” the slaves with the Emancipation Proclamation (and will conveniently leave out the fact that the Emancipation Proclamation didn’t actually free any slaves Lincoln had the authority to free, and allowed slavery to continue in the Northern states where his words could actually have carried some weight).

At most schools, you’ll be lucky to get a lesson beyond Martin Luther King’s dream and Rosa Parks’ defiant bus ride. Perhaps some devoted teacher will pay a nod to Booker T. Washington or Jackie Robinson or, in recent years, President Barack Obama; but that seems to be about where it ends. Those people were all luminaries and pioneers in their fields, and certainly worthy of our admiration; but they are not the whole of Black History.

Black History Month is about Mansa Musa, the King of Mali who extended the empire’s reach into one of the largest on the planet, and imposed the system of provinces and territorial mayors and governors. It’s about Lewis Latimer, the man who invented the filament that took Thomas Edison’s light bulb into the next century. It’s about Robert Abbott, the United States’ first black newspaper publisher and one of the nation’s first ever black millionaires.

Black History Month is about Kwame Nkrumah, Bill Pickett, Imhotep I, Samori Toure, Belva Davis, Crispus Attucks, Dr. Ivan van Sertima, Fritz Pollard, Stokely Carmichael, Aaron Douglas, Denmark Vesey, Tousaint L’Ouverture, Nat Turner, Shirley Chisholm, Mae Jemison, Fred Hampton, Scott Joplin, Ramses II, Zumbi dos Palmares and hundreds of other men and women that you have probably never heard about.

The march from slavery clearly demonstrated the struggle and the power that black people are capable of, but it’s not all we have contributed to the world.

It’s time we used the month of February to extend the dialogue beyond that banal and onto the tremendous accomplishments of Africans throughout history, who have advanced math, music, language, the sciences and so much more for thousands of years. Then and only then will we truly be celebrating Black History Month.

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

V Deport migrants who abuse our country 12. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

OVER THE PAST FEW DECADES, migrants have come to SVG to live and start a new life. Unfortunately, many of these migrants have sought to abuse our country. Rather than contribute to our nation as normal citizens, they choose to leech our country for all they can get, focusing on making as much money for themselves, regardless of the negative impact on our people.

Overall, their presence in SVG is damaging our country. These migrants should be deported for abusing our country.

Some of the migrants’ attitude is to live in white enclaves and operate an apartheid lifestyle, similar to the apartheid system that Nelson Mandela fought to dismantle in South Africa.

The super-rich white migrants in SVG want to live in white enclaves in a predominantly black country, and want the indigenous people to be subordinate to them - cook their food, make their beds, tidy up after them, cut their lawns.

They get blanket tax and customs duty exemptions of hundreds of millions of dollars. Then they insult us

interested in the development of our country. They are here to destroy our graceful country and make money for themselves. These migrant leeches by metaphorically spitting in our face: This is pure arrogance. they hand out by way of a charity If we fail to stop the takeover of should be deported. We cannot stand bowl, a tiny proportion of the money SVG by migrants, our children and by and let them continue to drain our they save with their tax and customs grandchildren will become second class country whilst our people suffer in duty exemptions. It is shameful how citizens in their own country. Migrants poverty. openly and relentlessly they leech our who abuse our country should be It is important to send a very strong country, even though thousands of our deported, and their land should be message that leeches will not be people live in poverty. distributed to Vincentians. SVG needs tolerated. Instead, we need policies in The migrants come to SVG and a type of land reform as seen in place to protect and preserve SVG for grease the hands of greedy and Zimbabwe to help bring about more our children and beyond. unpatriotic politicians in order to economic equality in our country. exploit our country. Over the past few Migrants that just want to be SVG Green Party decades, a lot of our crown lands have leeches and parasites, and suck the www.svggreenparty.org been sold off to foreigners. Take a good economic life-blood out of SVG, are not look at what is going on in Canouan — white wealthy migrants are claiming the sea space around their development. Their actions are beyond belief; they should be deported.

Vincentians are being excluded from their own beaches. This is outrageous.

In Mustique, our local fishermen cannot fish in the sea around Mustique. Indigenous people who live in Lovell village in Mustique cannot rent their houses out to make a dollar.

Indigenous people must apply for permission from the migrant ‘alleged’ owners of Mustique to have visitors.

Artist’s impression of how the Greiggs Playing Field will be transformed for the heritage Festival.

Greiggs to climax 2016 festival THE COMMUNITY of Greiggs is set to climax its 2016 Greiggs Heritage Festival in grand style, on National Heroes Day, March 14, 2016.

A release from The New Tribal Generation (THTG), representing the Greiggs Garifuna Council, the Greiggs Rastafarian Progressive Society, the Greiggs Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society and the Greiggs Adolescent Group, said that the March 14 activities will mark the finale of a series of activities beginning March 7, organized to commemorate National Heritage Month (March) and National Heroes Day. The Greiggs Playing Field, the venue for the March 14 activities, is expected to be transformed into a model indigenous tribal village, with huts being constructed by the Greiggs Rastafarian Progressive Society.

These huts will be constructed to reflect the technique/style used by the indigenous people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, akin to the huts at the site of the Cayo Village at Argyle, the release said.

Persons and groups are being encouraged to occupy huts to display some aspect of the indigenous culture.

They are also, according to the release, being encouraged to utilize organic materials (e.g. leaves) to decorate and complete their huts, and to create innovative costumes in order to make their presentation more authentic and convincing to visitors.

Prizes will be awarded for the Best Hut and Best Costume in the Best Hut Competition.

The activities leading up to the March 14 climax will include: marble pitching and top spinning competitions; a roller race through the village; obstacle races and tug-Owar; target practice and ring games; and a French Evening dubbed ‘The French Connection’.

The French Evening will feature lecture/discussion sessions on the French influence (names of towns, etc.) that helped shape the history of SVG. Prizes, including prizes for the preMarch 14 activities, will be presented on Heroes Day. This year’s Greiggs Heritage Festival is being marked under the theme ‘Resurrecting The New Tribal Generation’ and motto, ‘Concept Over Crowd’.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 13.

St.Vincent St.V V Viincent i and the Grenadines Portt Authority held it’s it’’’ss Annual A Awards wards Dinner at the Aquatic Saturday, 30th atic ti Club Cl b on Saturday S t d yy,, 30t th January JJanuary, yy,, 2016 att 7:00 7 00 ppm..

Welcome remarks Mr. SVGPA, W Weelcome e rem marks were done by Mr rr.. Bishen B VGP P PA A, A other John , CEO of SVGP remarks were Mr. SVGPA. ere done by Mr rr.. Winston W Wiiinston D Davis, Acting Chairman of SVGP P PA A. A The Feature Remarks was done by Mr Mr. Snagg. rr.. Edwin Snagg

AWARDEES A WARDEES A Most Outstanding Employee in Department

LONG SERVICE AWARDS 30 Years Mrs. Jennifer Cyrus Mr. Victor Matthews Mr. Alfred Finch 25 Years Mr. Ronald Joseph Mr. Brenton Miller

Cruise Ship Terminal & Ferry Berth

In Information formation System

Mrs. Carleen McLean

Mr Mr.. Ekron Byron

Maintenance

Operations Kingstown

Mr. Mr. Raniel Richards

Mr Mr.. Kelroy W Webb Weebb e

Operations Campden Park

HR/Admin

Mr. Mr. Va V Valmore aalmore Adams

Mrs. Camille Shallow - Duncan

Accounts

Marine

Ms. Buf Buffy ff fffy Johnson Johnso

Mr Mr.. Michael Chandler

Security

Mr.. Delroy Smart Mr e oy Smar S art Commend dations Commendations C

20 Years Mr. Alphonzo Layne 15 Years Mr. David Abbott Mrs. Joyce Hazell Ms. Susan Quammie Mrs. Lucreta Simon Mr. Nigel Antrobus Ms. Rhondeen George Mr. Neil John Mr. Roger Baker Mr. Dean Branch Mr. Harvey Caine Mr. Paul Pope Mr. Keville Solomon Mr. Augustus W

Mr.. Paul Pope Mr Mr.. Trevor Mr Trevor Kennedy Kenneedy ols Mr.. Brandt Nicho Nichols Mr Mrs. Samantha Bailey B - Reid Ms. Ms Samarah Jack k Ms. Ve Verne Ryan V eerne Ry R yyan Morgan Ms. Jasmin Mor g gan Mr.. Dwayne Abb Abbott Mr bott

LONG SERVICE AWARDS 10 Years Ms. Lynette Charles Ms. Buffy Johnson Mrs. Camille Shallow Duncan Mr. Andrew Frank Mr. Raniel Richards Mr. David Kelly

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14. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Ahdrenalin Carnival kicks off for Vincy Mas 2016 AHDRENALIN CARNIVAL has launched their Vincy Mas 2016 presentation ‘How dare you? – The Burlesque Sensation’.

The presentation comprises six sections that consist of frontline and backline costume options, designed by some of the region’s finest carnival costume designers. Sections include ‘Moulin Rouge’, ‘L’Heure Verte’, ‘Scandal’, ‘Teaser’, ‘Creole Goddess’ and ‘Peek-A-Boo’, and range in cost from EC$550 to EC$1195.

Registration takes place in phases. The first phase takes place 17th — 20th Feb, 11am — 6pm

daily. The second phase will commence Friday 26th Feb 2016.

Non-resident masqueraders can register via www.ahdrenalin.com.and are required to make deposits on costumes - $400xcd (Frontline) and $200xcd (Backline) - payable by cash, cheque or money order.

Addressing last year’s issue occasioned by ‘truck problems’, Ahdrenalin Carnival assures: “We took away a very valuable lesson from last year’s truck situation. While we were not the first band to experience truck difficulty on Carnival Tuesday, we

are ultimately responsible for ensuring that each masquerader has the time of their lives with us …. .

For 2016, we have much to prove to everyone and also ourselves.

We’ve raised the quality of our product significantly (since our inception), from our costumes to our on-the-road experience. We owe this to our masqueraders.

We’ve assessed and re-worked.

We’ve reemerged as an even more dedicated band today because of 2015… . We thank our loyal sponsors and masqueraders for sticking by us, as they add to our strength.”

According to the band’s release, there are several discounts available to masqueraders.

Masqueraders who played in 2015 get $100 discount, those who have played with the band for three or more years get $75 discount.

There is also an early registration discount of $50 for anyone who registers before April 1st, 2016. Discounts, however, cannot be combined.

The Carnival Tuesday Ahdrenalin Carnival package includes breakfast, lunch, drinks and refreshments on the road, and goodie bags filled with products provided by band sponsors.

Ahdrenalin Carnival captured the 2015 King of the Bands title with their presentation ‘An Eastern Interlude’.

For more information email ahdrenalin@hotmail.com, or look for Ahdrenalin Carnival on Instagram and Facebook.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 15.

Heritage

Rose Hall Cultural Organization tests hiking tour route A view of the new village (Rose Hall) from the top of Jack Hill.

Right: The rock formation of Spring Village/Gordon Yard, viewed from a far-away Jack Hill.

slave masters to see everything that was happening on the plantation. Copeland became the very first Garifuna settlement after abolition, and many artefacts dating back to ‘Test Hikers’ at the final stop after being entertained by RHCDO and other that time were found tour officials. there by locals from Rose Hall.

by GLORIAH… enthusiasts including collects all the waste The tour’s first stop Mrs. Jewelene Charleswater from the new Rose took place there. Hikers THE ROSE HALL Cultural Scott from the Ministry Hall Village, taking it were treated to and Development of Tourism; Ms. Gloria down to the river in an refreshing drinks of Organization (RHCDO), Williams from the orderly fashion. coconut water harvested recently tested the route Ministry of Culture; Mrs. The tour then moved on the spot. of a proposed hiking tour Gwenneth Anthony from to Marma Tunnin, an It then moved to Jack in the Rose Hall the Ministry of National extended stretch of road Hill, from where one can mountains.

Mobilization, and Ms. that opens after turning view the variety of rock The test, aimed at Hazel Hull, tour a ‘long’ corner. The area formations in the distant assessing its feasibility dispatcher with Coreas was used as a ‘Lovers’ rock faces at Spring for possible inclusion in Caribbean Adventures.

Lane’ on moonlit nights, Village and Gordon Yard. the eco-tourism drive of The group assembled in days gone by. A Jack Hill is the highest the government of St. at the Rose Hall certain ambiance was hill in Rose Hall giving a Vincent and the Community Centre for a reportedly created as the 360° panoramic view of Grenadines, was held on briefing which dealt rays of moonlight filtered St. Lucia, the La Wednesday, 27th with, inter alia, the through the surrounding Soufriere Volcano, January, 2016. rationale for the activity vegetation.

Chateaubelair, Richmond The ‘test group, under and the route for the Red Hole, next in line, Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, the supervision of the tour. is an area composed of the Caribbean Sea, RHCDO president Mr. From the Centre, the purely red soil, and is the Cumberland Bay, Coulls Selwyn Patterson and hikers proceeded to only other area in the Hill, Hermitage, and the led by Mr. Ormond Corea Water Hole, a country, after that in valley and plain of Rose Johnson, tour guide, deliberately constructed Belle Isle, with such soil. Hall. comprised a group of drainage area that The soil is used for From Jack Hill, the making concrete blocks tour moved towards and for surfacing roads Moore, formerly owned within the Rose Hall by an English planter. community.

The first village of Bamboo Gutter Africans, comprising the followed. It is a Stapletons, resided at particularly historical Moore, and the last area, once known for its remaining house of that proliferation of bamboo, village still exists there. which was used to build Moore holds the trail houses and to construct which the Garifuna used furniture in the days to go from Cumberland after the abolition of through Westwood, and slavery. The tour then on to Copeland and took the intersection into Chateaubelair; the same Copeland. trail which the British Copeland is also rich used to travel to in history. There is an Chateaubelair to war area with signs that a with the French. huge Plantation House From there, hikers had once stood there. passed through regions According to Mr. like Works, Yard Road, Johnson, it was and Corner Bay, where constructed so that a other slaves and their 360° line of vision was masters dwelt. Here, the Drummers entertained the ‘Test Hikers’ amidst the afforded, enabling the second and longer stop breeze on a mountain top.

View from the Copeland area.

The rock face at Red Hole.

took place.

The RHCDO proposes to present a cultural package of indigenous cultural forms, and to serve refreshments of Vincentian foods when the tour is established.

Samples of these were presented during the second stop.

In this writer’s view, the tour was extremely enjoyable, the route not too arduous, made so by spectacular views and sharp, fresh breezes.

With the appropriate

infrastructure put in, it would make a top-class tour.

President Patterson explained, “Our next step is to put in footpaths, railings, washrooms and a gazebo at the last stop venue. Later, we plan to negotiate with hotels and tour operators to sample the tour, then put it on their list of activities for their guests.”

The majority of the work should be completed by August 2016.

16. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 17.

Foreign affairs

Cuban Ambassador welcomed THE VINCENTIAN was more than happy to entertain a visit, Friday 12th February, 2015, by new Cuban Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, H.E. Vilma Reyes Valdespino.

Ambassador Valdespino met with Managing Director Desiree Richards and Editor Cyp Neehall.

She expressed a desire to continue the cordial working relationship that has been ongoing between her Country Embassy and THE VINCENTIAN, since St. Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba on May 26, 1992.

Ambassador Valdespino will continue oversight of a number of areas of support that her country currently extends to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, not least being assistance in airport construction, health and education.

She is particularly enthused with the recent pilot programme here which propagates the use of the Cubanmanufactured drug Heberprot-P, developed by the Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Centre (CIGB), and which treats hard-to-heal foot ulcers that frequently occur as a complication of diabetes.

H.E. Ambassador Vilma Reyes Valdespino has some 30 years of service in the Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Republic of Cuba, including tours of ambassadorial duty in Europe and Africa.

H.E. Vilma Reyes Valdespino (left) and Desiree Richards, Managing Director of THE VINCENTIAN.

French Ambassador visits REGIONAL COUNSELLOR for Cooperation of the French Republic, Ambassador Stephane Dovert, made an official visit to this country, February 10 — 12, 2016.

During his visit, Ambassador Dovert held discussions with relevant parties, aimed at strengthening the partnership between this country and France, in areas of mutual interest such as Education, Health and Culture.

Among those with whom the Ambassador interfaced were: Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves; Hon. Luke Browne, Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment; Mrs. Laura Browne, Director of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Planning; Mr. Godfrey Ambassador Stephane Dovert during the Pompey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry Ambassador’s recent visit. of National Security; Ms. France have enjoyed excellent Lou-Ann Gilchrist, Chief Education diplomatic relations since our nation’s Officer, and officials of the National attainment of political independence in Trust.

1979.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines and

Brazil Ambassador presents credentials HIS EXCELLENCY Antonio Jose Rezende de Castro, new resident Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, presented his Letters of Credence to His Excellency Sir Frederick His Excellency Antonio Jose Ballantyne, Governor General, Rezende de Castro. at Government House.

Ambassador de Castro is a career diplomat with over forty (40) years’ experience. Prior to his appointment as Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, he served as Ambassador of Brazil to the Republic of Uganda and the Republic of Burundi, respectively.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the Federative Republic of Brazil have enjoyed many years of mutual and fruitful bilateral relations. The appointment of Ambassador de Castro serves to further strengthen the bonds of solidarity and areas of mutual interest of cooperation between Kingstown and Brasilia.

18. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 19.

News

New R.C. Bishop to be ordained BISHOP-ELECT of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Fr. Gerard County, will be ordained (bishop) tomorrow, February 20, in a ceremony beginning at 9:00am, at the SVG Community College, Villa.

Fr. County will replace Bishop Jason Gordon, who served as Bishop of a re-united Bridgetown-Kingstown diocese for the last four and a half years.

When Bishop-elect County met with the media last Tuesday at the R.C. Pastoral

Centre, Edinboro, he spoke of fulfilling a mission, even as, he admitted, he will continue his process of orientation.

Born in San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago, Fr. County served as a banker for nine years before enlisting in the priesthood.

His sojourn thereafter, took him to Mexico for 19 years, where he distinguished himself working with the poor.

Fr. County said he will spend the first year learning about the nation’s culture, and expressed

how touched he was with the beauty and serenity of the Windward district, having made a trip through the Marriaqua Valley, on his way to Fancy.

He admitted to having been warmly welcomed by the Vincentian populace and being made to feel at home, a more than appreciated gesture since, as he described himself, he has always been close to people.

Working with young people has been one of County’s strong ministries, and he pledges to continue in this direction. There will be no discrimination however, as he plans to engage every group so that they will have their say in the affairs of the Church.

Fr. County’s elevation to the bishopric comes on the heels of the completion of

DARE expanding THE DRUG ABUSE Resistance Education (DARE) programme enters secondary schools next September.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Juliana Charles made the announcement last Friday during a ceremony in which two projectors, two lap tops and other equipment were handed over by the Mustique Charitable Trust, to help in expanding the DARE activities.

ASP Charles, coordinator of the DARE programme, noted DARE’s role in helping children cope with challenges that face them.

She highlighted the importance of assisting the youngsters, especially at the vulnerable stage of their upbringing, and credited the DARE programme with preventing youngsters from becoming involved in drugs and alcohol.

Children were making further commitment to stay drug free as a result of their attachment to the DARE activities, she said.

Previously, the programme was focused on primary schools, and ASP Charles was especially happy to point to the expansion into the secondary schools.

Commissioner of Police Michael Charles was elated with the package handed over by Mrs. Lavina Gunn and Mr. Basil Charles, representing Mustique Charitable Trust.

The COP traced DARE’s origins, and agreed that the new equipment will broaden the programme’s output.

Mrs Gunn noted the long relationship between the Mustique Charitable Trust and the constabulary.

She was delighted that the DARE programme was helping “young people to

ASP Juliana Charles is excited about the DARE programme’s expansion into secondary schools. make the right choices.”

Trustees of the Mustique Charitable Trust approved the decision to move into the secondary schools, and, Mrs Gunn said, they were happy to assist the DARE expansion. (WKA)

The presentation party (L-R): Mustique Trust Coordinator Lavinia Gunn, Deputy Commissioner Reynold Hadaway, Mustique Trust Director Basil Charles, COP Michael Charles, Asst. Commissioner Frankie Francis and ASPJuliana Charles.

the most recent Synod of Bishops, Vatican City, October 2105, which agreed on apostolic exhortation on the family.

The Bishop-elect is anticipating his role in the implementation process of the Synod document.

County was supported at his introduction by Monsignor Michael Stewart and Fr. Andrew Roache.

“We expect that he would be a good Shepherd - a voice for the voiceless,” Stewart outlined.

Monsignor Stewart is also optimistic that County will feature in the movement for unity in the Vincentian society.

He is confident that Bishopelect County would lead the Church’s effort “to provide better pastoral care for our people.”

Monsignor Michael Stewart anticipates the new bishop playing a meaningful role in the effort to unite Vincentians.

Bishop-elect Fr. Gerard County speaks of a pastoral approach that would involve all groups in the affairs of the church.

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20. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

More than a visit heard noises coming from inside.

For some reason, the THERE IS TOO MUCH door was not locked, so I nonsense going in this entered the house and place, including the realised the noises were church, and now it reach coming from the right in the church. bedroom. I could hear For the past few weeks, my wife has been several voices saying things which I cannot visiting her friend, the say here.

Pastor`s wife’s house I eased my way to the every Friday. We agreed bedroom room, and there that she should have was the Pastor, his wife, some time for herself MY WIFE and two other with her friends. church sisters in the Now, George, what same bed, having group can possibly go wrong with my wife being in the sex. None of them saw me, and I used my cell company of the Pastor’s phone to take some wife? I understood that pictures which I still the visits would be at a have. time when the Pastor My wife, as usual, the would be at the church next day, told me how doing prayers, etc.

One night in question, refreshed she felt after I dropped by the house to her visit. I offered to go with her the next time leave our house keys she was going, and she with her since I was immediately objected, going to be late getting home. The house was in saying she needs to have time alone with her darkness, but the cars girlfriends. were parked in the The next day I, started driveway. I went up to packing my things, and the door and knocked. when she asked me what No one answered. As I was going on, I told her was about to leave, I to check her email. I

Dear George,

sent her one of the pictures I took with her and her gang of worthless, no good so called church people. To this day, she has not said a word to me about it, other than asking me to talk to her. I told her I will talk to her about the matter, only if I can do so in the presence of the other offending parties and the church board and body.

I have left the house, and now I am living by myself. I am not going to divorce her, but I am willing to live by myself until she gets the guts to file a divorce. That I want to see!

Hurting real bad Dear Hurting real bad,

the issue. There needs to be a more decisive approach to this problem.

This situation cannot be resolved without confronting all of the offending parties. Some serious decisions need to be taken in regard to the future of that Pastor and his wife at that particular church, and also with the future of your marriage.

Have that discussion with the relevant bodies (the church board) and let the chips fall where they may. You and your wife will have to have a personal talk about your marriage and its future, and the sooner that is done, the better for both of you.

George Thanks for sharing. I cannot say it is fun to witness your wife indulging in such messy actions with those people who are in positions of trust. You, however, cannot continue to ignore

A weighty issue Dear George, I MET MY wife when she was 110 pounds, and made it clear to her that I love slim women. She promised me that she will not allow herself to get fat and out of shape. We have been married for 3 years now, George, and during that time, my wife has moved from 110 pounds to 275 pounds. She refuses to do any form of exercise, and she refuses to eat anything healthy. Instead of home-cooked meals, she prefers to practically live at Subway and KFC. I have to be cooking my own meals, if I want something substantial to eat.

I told her plain and straight that if she ever reaches 300 pounds, I AM GONE! I know the vows said for better or for worse, but not in the case where she deliberately does things to bring displeasure to me and to harm herself.

I am willing to walk away, once I know she has stopped caring.

Machine in bed Dear George,

JOE S. Dear Joe S,

Your husband may have seen a need to boost his sexual performance, based purely on his perception of what it would take to satisfy you.

Unfortunately, couples generally do not talk about sex enough, especially about what gives pleasure and what does not.

Have a talk with your husband. Let him know how satisfied you were before he started this drive to boost his sex drive. This could all be a psychological thing where he feels that he is getting ``over the hill`` and therefore, needs to prove to himself and to you that he still has what it takes to satisfy you.

Let him know that you have no issues with him and his sexual performance, and how much discomfort his recent extra drive is causing you.

It is always important that a couple talks on a regular basis about what pleases you and what does not, so that the other person would not be left to guess and be led into engaging in unnecessary actions to become superhuman in bed.

Your wife`s actions can be described as selfish, in the sense that she is engaging in a lifestyle that would definitely bring harm to her body and, in the end, be costly to both of you.

There are health implications that need to be considered, and it would be you who would have to take up the slack, if the time comes where her health is compromised. Explain to her, as lovingly as possible, that she needs to care more about her health, so that both of you can be around to enjoy each other for as long as possible.

If she can see your wanting her to lose weight is not a selfish request on your part, she would more likely to be willing to make a change.

It might help if she hears this from a third party. Try to see a marriage counsellor about the issue. Maybe then she would react differently.

Do not give up on her at this time. There could be underlying reasons why she decided to let herself go, and this could come out when you talk with that counsellor.

George

George

MY HUSBAND has been drinking all sorts of things to enhance his sexual performance, and I am tired of telling him that he does not need to do that. I have not had any issues with his performance before he started to drink and eat things that give him that added boost. We would have sex for hours, and he is like a machine that cannot be turned off, once he starts.

Sex for me has become painful, and he does not understand that. Instead of the 30-45 minutes we used to have before, which was totally enjoyable, we now have 2 and 3-hour sessions, and I dread that! I am very turned off now, and he cannot see it. He is too much into himself to see my side of the coin. What should I do?

Turned off Dear Turned off,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Self-deception is likely. You may jump from the frying pan into the fire if you make a move this week. Try not to hurt your partner's feelings. You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate's whims.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Don't count on others to cover up for your shortcomings. Family members may feel anxious if you make promises you don't deliver. An older loved one may be having problems. Your interest in religion and philosophy may lead you to specific destinations.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You need to re-evaluate your situation.

Try to keep your cool; you may be a tad frazzled by all the rushing around. You'll be able to discuss your ambitions with your mate. Romance and social activity will be a promising combination.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies.

Your boss won't be too thrilled if you leave things unfinished. Don't make promises. Your need to use emotional blackmail will only cause more conflict.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) If you're looking to do something worthwhile, consider volunteer work.

This is probably causing upset and confusion on the home front. You can make professional changes and direct your energy into making all the right moves. Go after your goals. You may want to get a little extra rest. You are prone to infections and fevers.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Those you live with may be experiencing problems. Sudden changes could result in estrangement's.

Escapist tendencies may lead to overindulgence. You can offer your help to others but back off if they appear to

be offended by your persistence.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You don't owe anyone an explanation.

Do your own thing, you need time to yourself. Travel and social activity will bring about interesting talks, not to mention contacts. You may find that your mate is well aware of the circumstances. Do something special for them.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't divulge secret information. Accept the inevitable, and opportunities for advancement will follow. Don't be afraid to say what's on your mind. Do not get involved in joint financial ventures.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Plan some family outings. You may be uncertain about some of your coworkers and your boss. Don't let criticism upset you. Hassles will delay your plans. Invest wisely. Your personal life could have you tied up in knots.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Be courteous if you wish to avoid major delays. Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions. Your outgoing charm and obvious talent will be admired. You can enhance your cash flow if you pick up additional skills.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You may find that romance will unfold through business connections. Don't cause a scene, but when you get home let your partner know how you feel and why. Get promises in writing or you will be disappointed. Your lover will be annoyed with your participation.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Travel will enhance romance and adventure. This is a great day for a trip.

Don't lend or borrow. You'll be tempted to spend extravagantly this week.

ACROSS 1.Mary’s follower 5. Sliver of sunshine 9. Gorilla, e.g.

12. Musical instrument 13. Wheel spindle 14. Reaction to an IM joke 15. Display sign 16. Scolds 18. Financial market channel 20. Andes animal 21. Wash oneself 24. Bloom buzzer 25. “Right you __!”

26. Farm tract 29. Spill liquid 33. Pinocchio’s nose extender 34. Cautious 36. Australian ostrichlike creature 37. Slightly wet 39. Company’s symbol 40. Limo passenger 41. “__ About Eve” 43. Canter and gallop, e.g.

45. Mrs. Ralph

Kramden 48. Fasten securely 50. Blunders 52. Cato’s “therefore” 56. Thurs. follower 57. New Zealand bird 58. April forecast 59. Moms 60. College placement exams (abbr.)

61. Canvas boudoir DOWN 1. Actor Chaney 2. Honest — Lincoln 3. Dairy sound 4. Judge’s spot 5. Biting remark 6. Company head (abbr.)

7. Yodeler’s mountain 8. C&W’s Haggard 9. Edison’s middle name 10. Sonnet 11. “Born Free” lioness 17. Spanish hurrahs 19. Patricia of “Hud”

21. Like some eagles 22. Pavarotti solo 23. Pour heavily 24. Large ice mass 27. Monastery room 28. Car named after Ransom E. Olds 30. __-Strauss 31. Bypass 32. Baby seals 35. Cartoon bear 38.International agreement 42. Oozes out 44. Cautious 45. __ radio

(hyph.)

46. Euro’s predecessor in Italy 47. Egyptian deity 48. Colorful salamander 49. Terms of a

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 21.

sale (2 wds.)

51. Korean auto company 53. Norma or Charlotte 54. Tonic’s barroom pal 55. Hamilton’s prov.

22. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 23.

Pope brings ÂCricket MannaÊ to SVG

Nixon Mc Lean shares a moment with Pope at welcome ceremony.

swashbuckling approach at the top of the innings, which THE WEST INDIES became the second though it did not always come cricket-playing nation to win every trophy off, had appeared to be an in world cricket, when they won the ICC intimidating influence on Under 19 title on Sunday, February 14th, bowlers. He also bowled right2016, Valentine’s Day, in Bangladesh. arm offspin with some effect as They beat India by three wickets in well. the final of the competition.

In all, he scored 232 runs at The West Indies added the U19 title 38.66 and took seven wickets to the Senior World Cup titles (1975 at 23.14. He made a run-a&1979); the Costcutter U15 title (2000), ball 60 against England, and Champions trophy (2004), and the T20 his 76 against Fiji was just as title (2012). quick; but it was his blitz They were preceded to this feat by against Zimbabwe and India which was the first team to win Pakistan, 30 and 25, that Lennox John sees a bright future for Pope in the inaugural T20 and U15 titles. helped West Indies swing those the shorter format of the game.

On Sunday, the West Indies, replying do-or-die games. to India’s 145, overcame the dicey And as a testimony to Pope’s position of 77 for 5 to win their very first impact, ESPNcricinfo wrote of the The shy and soft-spoken Pope Under-19 world title.

Vincentian: “A combative, expressive was just prepared to say thanks to Victory was achieved primarily on the offspinner and flamboyant batsman from the people who assisted him in contributions of Keith Carty, who scored West Indies has caught the public eye in reaching where he is. a patient 52, and Kemo Paul, who was this Under-19 World Cup”.

“I feel real happy to be in the unbeaten on 40 at the end. They And speaking at a short ceremony at West Indies team that won the featured in a match-winning partnership the E. T Joshua Airport to welcome U19 tournament for the first of 69 runs.

Pope, former West Indies speedster time….it’s a great feeling,” he later The victorious West Indies team Nixon Mc Lean, in addressing the said. included one Vincentian, Gidron Pope, player, said :” None of the bowlers in Lennox John, the first who became the first player from his that tournament got your wicket….but Vincentian to have been part of a country St. Vincent and the Grenadines you and I will talk about that at the World Cup winning team when he to be in a world champion team.

News Spartans level.”

Pope, a powerfully built left-handed Minister of Sports Ces McKie and Gidron Pope (left) and Shamar opener, received much attention during Saboto Caesar, Representative for Springer celebrate West Indies the tournament, from opposing teams South Central Windward from which and commentators alike, for his Pope hails, also addressed the ceremony. semi-final win over Bangladesh.

Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

managed the West Indies to the U15 title in 2000, feels that Pope has a bright future, especially at the T20 version of the game.

“His style very much suits the shorter format, and I expect him to get in with the Zouks in the CPL. and possibly even further than that…I am happy with the impact he has made….I just hope that Nixon, Dawnley (Joseph) and the guys from Spartans keep him in check,” John said.

And ESPNCRICINFO also had this to say: “ If the next few years go well for Pope, West Indies can expect a player who can hit the ball cleanly, bowl tight offbreaks, is keen on fairness and modesty, and knows how to support his team-mates”.

Victors One hit form, Team Rivals roll on VICTORS ONE enjoyed double success on the weekend, while defending champions Team Rivals got the better of Lime Radcliffe in their grudge match, when action continued last weekend in the NLA National T20 Cricket competition.

On Saturday at Arnos Vale TWO, Victors ONE trounced Carl Joseph Law Chambers ASCO by nine wickets after their bowling attack clicked for the first time in the tournament.

ASCO won the toss and decided to take first use of the wicket, and saw their leading batsman, Daron Greaves, lose his stumps to the first ball of the innings sent down by Ray Jordon.

Only Kenville Sam (17) and Rodger Gibson (27), adding 40 for the third wicket, delayed the inevitable capitulation, the innings coming to a close after

17.4 overs, with the total at 95.

Jordan’ s three overs of pace accounted for 2/7 from his three overs, but it was offspinner Atticus Browne who proved the most successful, with 3/16 from his four overs.

Victors ONE went about their target in sedate fashion, with Browne and Miles Bascombe taking little chances against the spin pair of Greaves and Andre Hunte, with the first two overs bringing eight runs.

This, however, changed, and the openers soon had the fielders doing some “leather hunting”.

Bascombe (11) went with the total on 22, but Lauron Francois (*34), going in ahead of captain Donwell Hector, wasted little

Atticus Browne enjoyed a good weekend with bat and ball.

Left: Rodger Gibson offered strong resistance.

time in partnership with Browne (*35). The pair added 77* for the second wicket, to see their team home in 9.4 overs.

Browne struck four fours and one six, and Francois seven fours.

And Victors ONE ended a good weekend with a comprehensive eight wicket win over Police ONE at Park Hill on Sunday.

The lawmen, making first entry at the crease, were

dismissed for 115 off 18.3 overs with Maxian Richards 30 and captain Vertil Davis 23 being the top scorers. Atticus Browne 2 for 12 off 3 overs, Ray Jordan 2 for 15 off 3.3 overs and Norlan Williams 2 for 16 off 4 overs shared the wickets for Victors ONE, who replied with 117 for 2 in 12.5 overs, with Browne having a good weekend with 49*, Donwell Hector 30 and Danson Hoyte 26.

In the “Windward side grudge match”, Team Rivals continued their dominance over

their arch rivals Lime Radcliffe with a 15-run triumph.

Team Rivals batting first reached 143 for 8 off 20 overs, with Casmond Walters finally hitting some form with a brilliant half century, 51, with four sixes and three fours. Lime Radcliffe, whose bowling was led by Dyke Cato, 3 for 33 off 4 overs,. were dismissed for 125 in 19.5 overs, Romano Pierre 25 being the topscore as Butler,taking a beating, finished with 4/58.

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24. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Black Sands dictates Scotia Bank swim meet THE BLACK SANDS Swim Squad not only outscored the other three clubs to take the overall title at last weekend’s Scotia Bank meet at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre, but carted off the largest chunk of the individual awards.

In all, Black Sands counted eight individual titles of the eleven that were at stake.

Eltonique Leonard took the Females Under-6 with her 45 points, and Tia Gun- Munro the Females 9 to 10 age group, with her tally of 82 points.

Copping the Females 11-12 age category was

SVGÊs Joseph in race for PASO Presidency

KEITH JOSEPH, General Secretary of the St Vincent and the Grenadines National Olympic Committee (SVGNOC), has formally entered the race for the Presidency of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO).

Joseph, who currently serves as third vicepresident of PASO, was endorsed by the SVGNOC who, in a nomination letter, spoke of Joseph’s “immense knowledge, experience and Keith Joseph of the proven commitment and SVGNOC will make abilities.” a second try at The letter continued: becoming President “Over the years as our of PASO. General Secretary, Mr Joseph has displayed an eagerness to advance the cause of the Olympic Movement in the Americas, always advocating the principle of fair play in our decision-making.

“His leadership has facilitated immense assistance to numerous National Olympic Committees (NOCs), national federations and other sporting organisations.”

Joseph joins a slate of candidates that already includes José Joaquín Puello of the Dominican Republic.

A number of other candidates are expected, though, up to press time, they had not declared their candidacy. Among these are: Brazil-born Rio 2016 President and PASO second vicepresident Carlos Nuzman; Chilean Olympic Committee President Neven Ilic; and, St Lucia’s Richard Peterkin, International Olympic Committee (IOC) member and treasurer of both PASO and the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC).

The election is due to be staged at an Ordinary General Assembly later this year, and probably after the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Before that, in early May, an Extraordinary General Assembly will be held to agree and adopt a new PASO Constitution. (Source: www.insidethegames.biz)

Members of the Black Sands Swim Squad with their winning trophy last Sunday at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre.

Paige Cadogan with her 74 points, while Alex Joachim was the stand out in the Males for that same age group. Joachim registered 117 points.

Ria Adams with 84 points was the boss in the Females 13-14 and her club mate — Shane Cadogan — the Male winner with 126 points.

With a total of 58 points, Kaylah Ollivierre champed the Females 15 and over, while Nikolas Sylvester, 99 points, was among the Males.

The other three individual awards went to members of the Blue Marlins Swim Club.

Kennice Greene of Blue Marlins Swim Club took the Females 7-8 age group.

Tristan Ballah – winner of the Males 9 - 10.

Kennice Greene took the Females 7 -8 age category, as she recorded 72 points, and Brandon George, 59 points, followed Greene in the corresponding Males section.

Tristan Ballah copped Blue Marlin’s other ward, taking the Males 9-10 group, with 77 points.

Overall, Blue Marlins finished second, Bequia United Swim Club third and Dolphins Swim Club of Grenada fourth.

Zefal Bailey opens cycling calendar on top ZEFAL BAILEY inked his name as the winner of the first race of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union’s calendar of races for 2016.

No stranger to the top tier of the winner’s rostrum, Bailey won last Sunday’s elite division of the Subway 27-mile race, which circuited the Ratho Mill to the Arnos Vale Roundabout seven times.

His winning time was one hour 33 minutes 55 seconds. He finished ahead of Enroy Lewis who clocked a second place time of one hour 36 minutes 12 seconds.

Samuel Lyttle, who moved up to the open category this year, finished third in the elite segment in one hour 47 minutes 28 seconds. He was the fourth to cross the end line at Villa Flat.

Undisputed king of the Masters segment, Peter Durrant, maintained his boast in that division, with a winning time of of one hour 44 minutes 56 seconds.

Durrant finished third overall.

Randy Wilkinson was second

Enroy Lewis – Peter Durrant second to Zefal maintained his hold of the Masters Bailey.

Zefal Bailey – winner of category.

Race #1 in the 2016 Cycling Calendar. among the Masters and fifth overall, in a time of one hour 48 minutes 23 seconds.

Thomas — one hour 53 minutes 20 Steve Ollivierre took third in one seconds. hour 49 minutes 57 seconds.

A two stage event set for 26th Others who completed the race and 27th February is next on the were: Deptor Culzac in a time of calendar. one hour 52 minutes 44 seconds; The SVG Cycling Union annual Okera Sylvester- one hour 53 awards ceremony is slated for minutes 10 seconds; and David March 04.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 25.

Sports

Look who’s done it THERE is the saying that one swallow does not bring summer. That might not be even applicable to our part of the globe, for we have neither summers nor swallows.

There are other tropical references, but the analogy is that the success of the West Indies Under 19 cricketers is no guarantee that problems in the region will be solved.

The West Indies Cricket Board can be given some credit in assembling a squad, and taking them through the rigours that they could overcome the odds and be triumphant.

The West Indies Under 19 arrived in Bangladesh as underdogs and, as has been said, even when they made it through to the finals, it was taken for granted that the Caribbean youngsters were just making the mandatory appearance.

People who know cricket would have been wary that the game is played on the field, and the reference of glorious uncertainties looms large, even as the coin is tossed for any match.

The West Indies Under 19 players displayed a depth of understanding of the game far beyond their ages. The youngsters were sharp and alert, and were prepared to abandon their typical approach to cater for the conditions as they unfolded.

How many times have we seen our senior players squander opportunities and end on the wrong side of the fence, when all that was needed was a sensible assessment?

This 2016 West Indies Under 19 squad seemed to have bonded in ways the average West Indian youngsters are reluctant to do today.

They supported each other, and they revelled in representing the region. The team looked beyond individual territorial boundaries, and there was no siege mentality or any country appearing to dominate proceedings. In fact, the contribution of players from the smaller territories impacted significantly the performance of the team.

Keacy Carty, Man of the Match in the final, was born in St Maarten but played for Anguilla before catching the eyes of the Leeward Islands selectors.

His innings in the final carried the hallmarks of a mature youngster, with the temperament suitable for higher and expanded forms of the game.

Guyana had the most players on the team, reflective of their performances in the region in recent years. Players like Captain Shimron Hetmyer, wicketkeeper opening batsman Tevin Imlach and Keemo Paul displayed a grasp of the game of an advanced level.

The chest roll man Shamar Springer made the typical Barbadian contribution. He should be encouraged to carry on with his game, and there will be more celebrations to capture.

His compatriot Chamar Holder came in replacement for Vincentian born Obed McCoy, who came home in time to witness the final from the comfort of his home in Buccament. It must have been disappointing for McCoy, having to travel to Bangladesh and back, without getting a chance for the world to see his left arm medium stuff.

Perhaps he might have made as deadly a combination with Alzarri Joseph, the Antigua/Barbuda speedster, whose burst of speed sent many of the young Under 19 openers scurrying.

Who will overlook Gidron Pope’s role! He established himself as the enforcer, equivalent to the senior Chris Gayle. He did not come off in the final, but his other innings helped the squad to their pinnacle.

Jyd Goolie carried the Trinidad and Tobago colours on the West Indies outfit. He did not set tongues wagging, but there is evidence that he will develop.

Michael Frew is a former Under 19 captain for his native Jamaica. His all-round ability proved valuable to the West Indies contingent, and he has the potential to advance, once given the opportunity.

The success of the Under 19 squad comes as a major tonic for Caribbean supporters starved of any sense of accomplishment, especially by the senior squad, on whom we have based our success.

Winning the Under 19 title for the first time in the region’s history, at the time when the senior players were embroiled in another potential money fiasco, is an astonishing feat. The youngsters deserve all the commendations.

Vincy track star proud of new record Under 14 Male Champ and the 2008 St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Under 15 Male Champ, said his primary goal is to become a professional athlete, while excelling VINCENTIAN track star Brandon academically.

Valentine-Parris says he’s very In his second year of an proud of setting a new national and Emory Crossplex Invitational record athletic scholarship, ValentineParris, who is majoring in last month.

In an exclusive interview with Sports Management and Business Administration, and THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, Valentine-Parris, 20, said he was wants to become an athletics director, has been on the very delighted to run the 200 Dean’s List for the second meters in 21.48 sec., for Claflin University in Orangeburg, South successive semester.

“My aim is to make St. Carolina, about 40 miles (64 km) Vincent and the Grenadines southeast of Columbia, in establishing the record last month very proud and to put it on the map,” he said, owing his in Birmingham, Alabama.

“It’s a good accomplishment for success, to date, to “God, any individual to leave home and because He’s my pillar of strength,” and also to his venture out to school [in the United States] and actually go out mother, Lesanne Valentine, a Brandon Valentine-Parris has his eyes set on becoming a there and perform well,” said the single parent. Valentineprofessional athlete.

Sion Hill native, who was among Parris’s dad is Barbadian Franklyn Parris. the first athletes to represent the This weekend, Valentine-Parris Valentine-Parris said he competed Thomas Saunders Secondary in the Eastern Tennessee School (TSSS) in its initial bid in will compete in the 60m and Invitational Meet, winning his 200m in the Winston Salem the prestigious Penn Relays at 400m-heat in 47.75 sec. and the University of Pennsylvania in (North Carolina) Invitational becoming the fastest qualifier for Championship.

Philadelphia in 2011, and did so the finals; he won the finals in “I look forward to winning the again in 2012.

48.34 sec. In the 200m, he won “For me, it’s heart-warming to championship and placing higher his heat in 21.4 sec., but did not in the men’s rankings for the 400 know that my hard work is compete in the finals, because his meters nationally,” said paying off,” added Valentinecoach wanted him to save his Valentinee-Parris, who is Parris, whose long trek to energies for the 400m. currently ranked 6th in the athletics stardom began in 2008, As a junior athlete, Valentinewhen he participated, for the first United States in the 400m and Parris said he initially competed 200m. time, in the national junior in the 800 and 1,000m, because He participated in the World championship at the Arnos Vale “basically those are all I could Playing Field. “I ‘m just happy to Youth Champs, (France 2011); have done at that time.”

World Junior Champs (Barcelona, know that I’m performing well He switched to sprinting in 2012); World Junior Champs and injury free.”

2012 and participated in the (Eugene, Oregon, 2014); Claflin University, a 400m in El Salvador at the historically Black institution, said Commonwealth Games (Glasgow, Central American and Caribbean Scotland, 2014); and NACAC its athletic team, Claflin Junior championship. He also ran Senior Champs (Costa Rica, Panthers, had “an overall good the 800m at that meet, but was 2015). meet [at the Emory Crossplex Valentine-Parris said it was at more successful in the 400m, Invitational], as the 4x100 meter winning his heat in 48.68 sec. In relay team, consisting of Nicholas the World Junior Championships the 400m finals, he placed sixth. in Eugene, Oregon, where he Williams, Valentine-Parris, Valentine-Parris is a senior placed 6th in preliminaries, that Daniel Montgomery and You’shi member of the I.T. - D.A.T. Track the Claflin coach approached him Kirkland, set the meet and school Club, owned and coached by and offered him a track and field regionally-recognized athletics record with a time of 3:16.47.” scholarship.

Valentine-Parris, St. Vincent coach Michael ‘Lord Have Mercy’ In January last year, and the Grenadines’ National Ollivierre.

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

SVG Rugby Union reaching out IN LEAD-UP to the Rugby World Cup Qualifier Match taking place on Saturday 5th March at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, the SVG Rugby Union (SVGRU) will be hosting a number of outreach and impact events, from February 29th-March 4th.

The series of events begin on Monday 29th February, when Rugby America’s North (RAN) Regional Coordinator, Kwanieze John, will be assisting SVGRU in delivering a Coaches and Teachers Training Seminar, designed to equip interested coaches and teachers assisting in the ‘Get Into Rugby’ youth programme.

SVGRU sources say the seminar is designed with a view to impart knowledge and skills to teach tag rugby at the primary and secondary school levels.

Students and coach in a ‘‘Get Into Rugby’ training exercise The seminar, which is offered free of at the Richmond Hill Playing Field. charge and open to anyone interested in learning the basics of the sport of rugby, schools, various youth organizations and clubs, in will take place at the National Sports Council an effort to grow the game among youth.

Conference Room at 4pm.

Officials of the SVGRU will also be visiting I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016. 27.

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F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 19, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.08

LOBSTERS GALORE IN CALLIAQUA

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‘Scarface’ beckoning to motorists to get their lobster at a once-in-a-lifetime price.

Story and Photos by CARLYLE DOUGLAS

lobster fishermen in particular, this is far from the situation, since MOTORISTS and the demand from pedestrians who have restaurants and hotels, recently been using that the primary purchasers portion of the Windward of the craved after meat, Highway that runs through has reduced drastically.

Calliaqua, have been met This could well be as a with what one person result of declining described, as “a once in a patronage at these places life- time opportunity.” of hospitality, but THE What motorists and VINCENTIAN was pedestrians alike have unable to get a firm been enthralled by is a answer to its query in bumper catch of lobsters, this regard. which are being ‘offAs a result of this loaded’ at rock bottom excess catch and prices. decreased demand by THE VINCENTIAN hotels and restaurants, spoke to two prominent the fishermen have fishermen in the area to resorted to employing get a grasp of this helpers to canvas sale of unprecedented the lobsters on the main development. throughway through Former Fishermen of Calliaqua. the Year, Mr. Will Da Every afternoon and Breo and Mr Okel well into the early McCree, both evening hours, persons acknowledged that there like ‘Murray’, ‘Cold Cold’ are more lobsters in our and ‘Scarface’ can be waters this year, than seen skillfully compared to last year. maneuvering through the They were quick to traffic, live lobsters in add, that while this hand, with offers of as should be a low as $10.00ec per The lobster catch has been overwhelmingly good this year. windfall for

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

pound.

Pedestrians do not escape the overtures of these enthusiastic salesmen.

And fisherfolk in Left: Will DaBreo acknowledged Calliaqua, the increased number of lobsters through this in our waters. medium, are inviting Right: Okel McCree, one of the persons to lobster fishermen who would have come to been looking forward to increased returns.

Calliaqua, before stocks enjoy a delicacy, whose “run out”, so they can usual price is reserved grab the opportunity to for the rich.

Residents take the opportunity to enjoy some lobster, now that it is available with ease.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.