Vin pages 23 06 17 e reader for web

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JUNE 23, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.25

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Left: Arrowroot starch is stockpiled at the Owia Arrowroot Factory, dating back to the 2016 crop. Below: Work was done to improve and increase the drying capacity at the Owia Arrowroot Factory.

according to Caesar, ARROWROOT is not being exported to indicated after the United States at the present time. receipt of the That was revealed by Minister of shipment, that Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and two bags of the Rural Transformation, Saboto Caesar, starch when in a response to Opposition member tested, showed evidence of being for North Leeward, Patel Matthews, infected with the salmonella bacteria. during the question and answer Caesar assured the House that the segment of a Sitting of the House of starch was tested ,at the Orange Hill Assembly on June 13. Lab, and those tests revealed no signs Matthews had raised the concern of the product being tainted in any that there were approximately 110,000 way, leading to the conclusion that the pounds of starch currently in storage, infection occurred during shipment or and inquired about the plans, if any, during storage in the USA. for exportation of the starch. On acceptance that the Caesar also admitted that the last time arrowroot starch was exported to the US was in 2015. That shipment comprised some 30,000 pounds to one buyer and 20,000 pound to another. The Minister said that he was not prepared to give the names of the buyers. The buyer of the 30,000 pounds, by DAYLE DA SILVA

Arrowroot farmers have worked tireless to ensure that their yields of arrowroot rhizomes have increased. contamination was isolated to only the two sacks, the Arrowroot Association was paid US$7.35 per pound for the starch. Addressing the current state of the industry, Caesar acknowledged that there was a decline in the production of arrowroot starch following the 2015 shipment, forcing the purchasers to scale back their demand.

Production has since amounted to some 100,000 pounds a year, but purchasers had indicated that they required some time to increase market share. And since then, remedial/restorative work has been done on the drying house, dryers and loading dock at the Owia Arrowroot Factory. Continued on Page 3.

CORRECTING A WRONG

Arrowroot rhizomes waiting to be transported to the factory.

Geneviève Mc Master – Windsor Primary – 2nd overall and 1st for girls – daughter of Garnet and Elizabeth Mc Master.

IN THE COVER STORY of our edition of Friday 16th June, 2017, we got it all wrong as far as photographs and captions of the two top female performers in this year’s CEPA were concerned. We apologise for the inconvenience and discomfort caused to the students and their parents, and here make correction as far as photographs and

captions are concerned. Seeing that we also erred Ashlyn Francis – Chenise Harper – with two St. Mary’s R.C. – St. Mary’s R.C. – photograph 2nd overall and 1st 4th overall and 3rd placements in for girls – daughter for girls – daughter the main of Fr. Ashton and of Freddie and stories on Janine Francis. Denise Harper. Miss Mc Master and these on page three of this Miss Francis, on pages 18 and 19 of our June 16, 2017 issue so as to correct any misinterpretation. issue, we have repeated

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2. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG hosts annual Eye Care 4 U Project

US Mission extends free eye care services

Members of the medical team perform procedures at OVER 700 PERSONS here recently benefited the recently concluded Lions Eye Care 4 U project.

from the 2017 Annual Eye Care Mission of the US

Mobile Medical Mission Hospital. The 2017 Mission — June 4 — 9 — was held under the auspices of the Lions Club of KingstownSVG and the Ministry of Health. While here, the Mission, which has been conducting free eye clinics and surgeries in St. Vincent since 1975, offered those services as well as provided free eye glasses and donated opthmology supplies, including essential equipment, to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). This year’s medical mission was led by optometrist Dr. Dave McCabe, and included six (6) opthalmologists, two (2) optometrists, along with fifteen volunteer specialists. A total of ninety-one surgeries were carried out at the MCMH under the direction of Dr. Eric Purdy over the week-long stay. Daily clinics were held at the medical facility of the Arnos Vale Sports Complex, where patients

had their eyes tested, as well as glucose and blood pressure checks. A total of approximately five hundred pairs of eye glasses were distributed freely to patients referred by the doctors at the venue. This collaborative venture, between the Lions Club of Kingstown and the US Mobile Medical Mission Hospital in association with Beacon Insurance Company Ltd., has grown in scope over the past forty two years. One notable surgical operation done locally by the mission doctors, in the recent past, has been the successful transplant of a cornea, which enabled a patient to experience vision in the previously affected eye for the first time. Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG is eternally grateful for the work performed by the Mobile Medical Mission in restoring and improving vision among several Vincentian nationals, over the many years.

Members of the Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG (in yellow), help to distribute eye glasses to patients after preliminary tests were completed.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 3.

News 3 Geneviève McMaster: Driven by faith in God

just learnt about. Geneviève Elizabeth Mc Master, daughter of Ken and Elizabeth Mc Master, was the only student of her school, Windsor Primary School, to have secured a place in the top ten at the recent Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA). And she did so ‘in fine style, copping the 1st place for girls and taking the 2nd spot overall. With scores of Math — 98%, English — 98% and Science — 96%, one may have expected that the young scholar would have been overwhelmed by her success. However, Geneviève Geneviève Mc Master (right) with her mother was calmly and Elizabeth on result day at the Windsor Primary confidently making small School. talk with her mother when THE Stories by GLORIAH… Primary School in New VINCENTIAN visited Montrose with her mother, with her, at her school, ON THE MORNING of Mrs. Elizabeth Mc Master, last Monday. Monday, 12th June, a shy eagerly anticipating the “I expected to place but quietly confident questions that were about very high,” she Geneviève Elizabeth Mc to be posed to her acknowledged, “and Master stood in the front concerning the recently when I heard, I felt verandah of the Windsor accomplished feat she had pleased and I thanked

God.” She said that being the only child from her school in the top ten positions, did not make her special. When questioned about the reason for all that serenity she displayed, Genevière matter-of-factly replied, “God gave me my abilities and He still pushed me to achieve. I prayed a lot!” Mrs. Mc Master confirmed, “We are a family of faith. Geneviève has a strong faith, instilled in her at a young age.” Unlike many other Grade Six students here, Geneviève was not enrolled in lessons outside her regular classes. Her family believed that she could manage the work, and simply provided past papers for her to practise at home. Genevieve will attend the Girls’ High School, with the intention of keeping up the high grades. She is looking

No Arrowroot being shipped Continued from Front page. The Minister also informed the House that visits to the state were expected to be made by: the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) — the federal department responsible for developing and executing government policies to assist in agriculture; and the and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health

through the use of regulations and the supervision of food safety. It was important that “all was in good order,” Caesar cautioned, since these agencies were not in the habit of giving notice of when they planned to visit. Towards this end, the government was working with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to ensure that whenever the visit took place, that the sector was “up to speed,” Caesar said.

Every effort has been made and precautions taken to ensure that production facilities are sanitary.

towards engineering and/or the arts to maybe form part of her career path. She advises students

who want to excel, to start studying early and as exams approach, simply revise. She ended with, “Pray a lot!”

Ashlyn Francis: Knows what she wants ELEVEN-YEAR-OLD Ashlyn Francis of the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School, said that she always knew where she wanted to be at this point in her life, and that she had to work for it. The smooth talker went on, “People say that 50% is a fail. For me, it is 95%, so if I score 94%, I will challenge myself even Ashlyn Francis more. I would even take intends to continue to away all my own be a good student electronics!” but will find time for Ashlyn worked her way to the 3rd position for girls netball and volleyball. and 4th overall in the recently concluded Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) from a national total of 1638 students. The outspoken student, who was born in St. Lucia but resides in Calliaqua, gained 98% in Math, 96% in English and 96% in Science. She told THE VINCENTIAN, “I worked hard consistently! I did extra lessons outside school. I did past papers from St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago — all online; and I also did past papers from St. Vincent!” Ashlyn will attend the Girls’ High School, where, she said, “I plan to be a good student.” The confident young lady is certain that she wants to be a doctor, “because I want to help others. (But) I don’t just want to make sure that people are alright; I want to save lives!”, and spoke of wanting to become involved in the search for cures for diseases like Zika, malaria and cancer. She also has her intentions set on becoming a member of the netball and volleyball teams at her new school, and “to fight against bullying and negative peer pressure.” Ashlyn is the daughter of a Vincentian-born father, Anglican priest Ashton Francis, and a St. Lucian-born mother, Mrs. Janine Francis.

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Bankruptcy petition filed against BDS Ltd indebtedness of $210,495.31. ‘An outstanding debt manifesting in FOR THE SECOND TIME in about four an unsatisfied judgment constitutes a years, BDS Limited, owners of NICE continuing debt until paid, and each Radio, is in need of funds to pay Prime day which it remains unpaid in Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves monies contravention of demand and/or owed to him, stemming from High Court judicial direction to the contrary, judgements for defamation. constitutes a refreshed default’. Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, lawyer Dr. Gonsalves, represented by representing BDS Ltd, is heading a attorney Grahame Bollers, had taken committee spearheading an appeal to Matthew Thomas and BDS Limited to save NICE Radio by assisting with Court for statements Thomas had raising funds to offset a debt of made January 29, 2007, including, $210,000 owing to Dr. Gonsalves accusing Gonsalves of ‘misbehavior in stemming from a lawsuit for public office, involvement in the defamation, dated as far back as 2007. facilitation of drug trafficking, and Judgement was handed down in intending to resort to the Gonsalves’ favour in 2009. assassination, or will conspire with The fund raising exercise was others to assassinate or instruct the prompted after Gonsalves had on June assassination of Junior Bacchus in 11, this year, filed a petition to the order to, among other things, silence Court for an order adjudging BDS him’. Limited bankrupt, that a receiving The statements were made on the order be made in respect of NICE programme ‘Stay Awake’, then aired Radio and that Brian Glasgow of on NICE Radio and hosted by Thomas KPMG, act as trustee of the property. and Bacchus. It was pointed out in the On November 16, 2009, Justice Bankruptcy Claim, signed by Jennifer Remy found that the defence Gonsalves, and scheduled for hearing of Thomas and BDS Limited had ‘no in the High Court next Monday, June reasonable chance of success, was 26, that, “In the matter of High Court incurably bad, wholly unsustainable, Claim number 64 of 2007, Ralph E. without merit, and was an abuse of the Gonsalves vs Matthew Thomas, the process of the Court’. defendants thereto including the The Court ordered that the defence debtor, were jointly and separately, on be struck out, upheld the claim and 10th February 2012, ordered by the entered judgment for the claimant Honourable Master V Georges Taylor against the defendants, jointly and Alexander to pay the Petitioner the separately, for damages to be assessed. assessed sum of $155,000, together Attorney Dr. Linton Lewis with costs in the amount of $11,625. represented Thomas and BDS Limited The debtor never appealed the said in the matter. judgement. The Debtor has made no Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN effort to satisfy its indebtedness to the on Tuesday, Bacchus-Baptiste petitioner pursuant to the Judgement”. expressed the view that it would not be The filed document also states that, in Gonsalves’ interest for BDS Ltd to “Post Order interest on the total be put into Bankruptcy, since there is principal award of $166,625.00 (5% per another debtor which will rank in annum for five (5) years) is $43,870.31 priority. as at 16 May 2007 and continuing at “The interest here is to stifle the the rate of $22.83 per day until voice of the opposition. But he has payment in full, amounting to a total not catered for the fact that NICE Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Radio is more than a radio station. It is an institution of the people, for the people and by the people, regardless of their political affiliation.” According to Bacchus-Baptiste, “NICE Radio brings the widest sporting news, brings many religious programmes to which a wide crosssection of people listen for their spiritual gratification. Nice Radio broadcasts most cultural events, especially for Carnival. It is a true radio station, 98% love, 2 percent radio.” The lawyer is calling on Vincentians here and abroad to contribute to the appeal fund to save NICE Radio, which, in her view, is listened to by a very wide cross-section of Vincentians,

Douglas De Freitas, proprietor of NICE Radio, has himself been an outspoken and fearless commentator on social and political issues. regardless of their political affiliation. In February, 2013, BDS Ltd had paid over $206,000 to Gonsalves in relation to a judgement for defamation, handed down against then talk show host Elwardo ‘EG’ Lynch and BDS Ltd, stemming from statements Lynch had made on NICE Radio. Those monies were raised mainly by Radiothons.

LovelaceÊs case triggers significant development THE DEATH PENALTY PROJECT, an independent international human rights legal organization, has described as a significant legal development, a recent Privy Council finding in the case of this country’s lone death row inmate - Patrick Lovelace. In a judgment delivered on June 15, the Privy Council found to be unconstitutional, a law excluding death row inmates in St. Vincent and the Grenadines from applying for an extension of time to have their cases reviewed by a higher Court. In a news release, issued the same date the judgement was delivered, the organization, which is housed in the offices of the British Law Firm Simons, Muirhead and Burton LLP, pointed out that the Council’s decision will have relevance in other jurisdictions where rigid time restrictions are imposed on the appeal process in capital cases. The Death Penalty Project, according to the release, has, for more than 30 years, worked to protect the human rights of those facing the death penalty. The organization, instructed by local attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, has been providing legal assistance to Lovelace since 2012. Paul Bowen QC, Brick Court Chambers and Richard Thomas, Doughty Street Chambers, were instructed pro bono. Lovelace, former long distance runner of Belmont, was retried and convicted in 2009 for the murder of 12year-old female pannist Lokeisha Nanton, who was strangled in 2002. He was sentenced to death in 2010. Lovelace had unsuccessfully appealed his conviction in 2012, but his lawyer then, Shiraz Aziz, did not appeal the sentence. In 2014, he applied to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal for an extension of time to appeal the sentence, but his application was denied, on the basis that that Court had no jurisdiction to grant an extension of time in death penalty

Parvas Jabbar, Co-Executive Director of the Death Penalty Project, is looking forward to Patrick Lovelace having another day in court. cases. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a person must apply for permission to appeal within 14 days of the date of their conviction. However, there is a provision allowing individuals to apply for an extension of time in other cases. Death row prisoners were explicitly exempted from exercising this right. The Death Penalty Project challenged the constitutionality of this legal provision before the Privy Council, arguing that it amounted to a denial of due process for death row prisoners. The Privy Council found the rule to be “rigid” and “inflexible”, and the offending section of the law was considered unconstitutional. The Council rejected earlier case laws that suggest there are good reasons for imposing time restrictions on appeals in capital cases, in so far as this prevents prisoners from postponing their execution by lodging requests for an extension of time. It found that, if these concerns were once relevant, they no longer were, as such strategies would not be tolerated by the Courts, and there is nothing to suggest that these tactics are being deployed in practice. Parvas Jabbar, Co-Executive Director of the Death Penalty Project, stated, “We welcome this decision. The right to appeal and access to Court are fundamental fair trial rights which must be respected. They are even more critical in death penalty cases, where the stakes are so much higher if errors occur, as they inevitably do in all justice systems. The matter will now be remitted to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal who will decide whether to grant an extension of time in this case. We hope that this would result in Patrick Lovelace being allowed the opportunity to have his death sentence reviewed by the Courts.”

V CARICOM to coordinate action against terrorism

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 5.

Regional

A COORDINATED CARIBBEAN Community (CARICOM) clampdown on

returning foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) – including targeting their assets – is

being prepared for approval at next month’s heads of government meeting in

Trinidad and Tobago nationals pose for a photo, wearing military gear and holding assault weapons, in Syria in 2015. (Credit: DABIQ Magazine)

Grenada. It is expected that in the next three weeks, CARICOM leaders will move to finalise plans for a CARICOM arrest warrant for FTFs, and sharing of recovered assets, as well as regional anti-terrorism legislation. The Trinidad Guardian of June 14, stated that as the regional antiterrorism legislation will be based on Trinidad and Tobago’s proposed antiterrorism legislation, the Trinidad Guardian reported. The co-ordinated action comes in light of the 200plus CARICOM nationals who have traveled to ISIS territories, this according to Francis Forbes, Executive Director of CARICOM Implementing Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS). Forbes said that IMPACTS and the United States were already tracking “several hundred” people from the Caribbean and South America who’ve gone to join the Islamic State (ISIS) terror network. In addition, several returning FTFs are being actively monitored by regional law enforcement agencies, Forbes added. Forbes also noted that calls had been made by Caribbean-born FTFs for home-turf attacks. He said returning FTFs hold

battlefield expertise and pointed to the potential for “lone wolf” attack and the spread radicalization, not to mention the “push” such influence can have on transnational crime. CARICOM Secretary General Irwin La Roque, who emphasized that no country was immune to terrorism, explained that the July summit will discuss the draft plan for the region concerning a CARICOM arrest warrant and sharing of recovered assets of FTFs. “Our region can’t afford complacency — one act of terrorism in one state will resonate and have implications across the region,” La Roque added. Meanwhile, T&T’s Minister of National Security Edmund Dillon said, that also at issue was the increasing influence of radical clerics and radicalised ISIS sympathisers in CARICOM states; the growing volume/accessibility of terrorist group propaganda online and via peer-to-peer networks; and the potential exploitation of the banking system to fund terrorist networks. He called on CARICOM to criminalise and penalise acts of terrorism by nationals and nonnationals in a coordinated manner, and regional

Francis Forbes, Executive Director of IMPACTS, confirmed that his agency and the US were already tracking Caribbean and South American nationals who have joined ISIS. (Credit: St. Lucia Star) anti-terrorism legislation must be equally stringent and consistent. “As such, the CARICOM Model AntiTerrorism Bill and the proposed Agreement on the Return (of FTFs) and/or sharing of recovered assets are important tools which the region should seek to finalise as a matter of urgency. These are proposed to be opened for signature at CARICOM leaders’ upcoming meeting,” Dillon added. (Source: caricom.org)

Dog owner charged with manslaughter Editor’s Note: Barbados has moved to control the ownership and control of dogs. SVG has not yet made similar efforts, but maybe this story would hasten some serious attention for the concern herein. ACCORDING TO A STORY carried by Barbados Today, June 17, 2017, Peter Christopher Rock, a 48-year-old dog owner, ‘has been arrested and charged with manslaughter, in connection with the death of 74-year-old Verona Lolita Gibson of Monroe Road, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael.’ The report stated that ‘Gibson was attacked and killed by a number of dogs on Saturday,

January 28, while walking along Monroe Road in Haggatt Hall.’ Rock, also of Monroe Road, is also charged with three Today’s pit bull is a counts of keeping descendant of the original dogs without a license English bull-baiting dog-a and three counts of dog that was bred to bite keeping dogs and hold bulls, bears and unleashed in a public other large animals around place. the face and head. (Credit: Barbados Today mynewyorkcitylawyer.com) reported the incident thus: ‘Around 5:30 was not required to plea a.m. on January 28, to the indictable charge. Gibson was walking along Monroe Road when He was granted BDs$65,000 bail with one she was attacked by a pack of pit bull. She was surety, and ordered to surrender his passport. bitten multiple times The court also ordered about her body and succumbed to her injuries that he was not to keep any dogs until the matter at the scene.’ was settled. When Rock appeared Rock returns to court in the District ‘A’ Court last Monday, June 19, he on July 17. (Source:Barbados Today)

V ÂA PolicemanÊs JourneyÊ 6. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Vincent Police Force, and became the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force on the attainment of independence from Great ONE COULD HARDLY Britain in 1979. overemphasize the She said the police salience of history. So, force began under the when a Brooklyn, New helm of ‘Chiefs of Police’ York-based, St. Vincent — all of whom were and the Grenadines’ exBritish nationals, police officer recently dispatched by Great penned “A Policeman’s Britain, until the country Journey” in the St. Vincent gained Statehood in and the Grenadines Ex1969. Police Association, U.S.A., At that time, Inc.’s souvenir journal, it Jamaican-born Sydney was not only historic in Anderson, who served itself, but also very Chiefs of Police from 1954-70, became extraordinary, informative the country’s first Police and revealing. Ferrari-Easter — who Commissioner. Pamella Ferrarireceived the St. Vincent On Anderson’s Pamella Ferari-Easter receives SVG Ex-Police Association, U.S.A., Inc. Easter, a former and the Grenadines Exretirement in 1970, he President Special Award, flanked by President Arden Tannis (L) and NY immigration officer in Police Association, U.S.A. was succeeded by the Consul General Howie Prince. the Royal St. Vincent Inc. President’s Special first Vincentian-born and the Grenadines Award, at the group’s Commissioner of Police, Police Force (RSVGPF), 37th Anniversary Marcus Thomas. in the RSVGPF were Haywood (Course #65). At the inception, all traced the history of the Fundraising Gala and “good character, good Ferrari-Easter said police officers, according Force in a relatively Awards Presentation, at To become a police officer health, height, weight the local Police to Ferrari-Easter, were short compendium, from Glen Terrace in and strength, together Department originally trained at the regional the establishment of the Brooklyn, on May 20 — Ferrari-Easter said with a Primary School comprised the Police Training Center, first Police Constabulary wrote that the local the “original Leaving Certificate. Immigration, Fire, Coast Seawell, Christ Church, in 1735 up to prerequirements” to constabulary was first “These requirements, Guard, Criminal Barbados. retirement leave of Police named The Royal St. becoming a police officer too, have evolved and, Investigation, Criminal Vincentian recruits today, all police recruits were trained alongside Records Office (CRO) and must possess a high Special Branch their counterparts from school diploma and a departments. the Windward and minimum of five O But, she said, in 2006, Leeward Islands, (Ordinary)-level passes,” Tortola, British Virgin the Immigration she said. Department was Islands, Turks and “The requirements for Caicos Islands, and the separated from the a female, however, were host country, Barbados. mainstream of the Police somewhat more strictly Force. It remains, like “Today, all new scrutinized, making her the SVGPF under the officers are proudly journey a more jurisdiction of the trained in their challenging one than her homeland at the Old Ministry of National male counterparts,” she Montrose Police Training Security. asserted. The Police Force College, in Kingstown,” “Women, first and currently comprises 708 Ferrari-Easter said. foremost, would not be officers, serving under Among some of the recruited if they had the command of Acting recruits to excel at the children,” she added. Police Training Center in Deputy Commissioner of This restriction was Police Renold Hadaway. Barbados was Felix removed when the Police Constantine, who Ordinance 110 of 1948 enlisted in 1957. He was Epilogue was amended in the adjudged the “Best latter part of 1976, Recruit” to emerge from “The training one allowing for a greater Training Course #3. He received after enlistment number of women to be would go on to become and throughout one’s recruited and move up Commissioner of Police. career, is said to be equal the ranks. Another ‘Best Recruit” to a college degree,” Ferrari-Easter noted was Winston ‘Winty’ Ferrari-Easter said. “It that those who “moved Peters, from Course #29. can be noted that there up the ranks” included “ ‘Winty’, a member of are dozens of officers who Etaul Prescod, the first the St. Vincent and the hold various degrees in female police officer who Grenadines Ex Police many disciplines, joined the force in 1955; Association, U.S.A., was including law. Aurora N. Falby, the not just best at police “There is a saying, ‘if first female Inspector; subjects but was also one joined the Police Francis Gonsalves, the awarded ‘Best at Drills, Force a fool and left a first Assistant Pistol Shot, Rifle Shot, fool, you were born a Superintendent; and Judo and Self Defense,’” fool,’” she added. “Every Senior Superintendent she said. St. Vincent and the Ruth Hazel-Ann Jacobs, Others who excelled, Grenadines police officer the first female officer to Ferrari-Easter said, and ex-police officer head a major were: Reginald today has travelled the department, i.e. the Telemaque (Course # 23); same journey — they Criminal Investigation Ralph Rodriquez (Course enlisted, took an oath to Department and #24); Jimmy Smart serve, (and) were trained Criminal Records Office. (Course #25); Sylvester in academics, drills, Gregg (Course #63); pistol shots, rifle shots, Training of recruits Errol Edwards (Course judo, self-defense, to #64); and Bryan name a few. Stories and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; naking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

Commissioner Michael Charles. The Canouan-born Ferrari-Easter, the first Grenadine-born female to serve in the local constabulary, said she obtained most of her information from Brooklyn-resident, retired police sergeant Emery Jack-Alexander, originally from the Questelles/Chauncey area, with additional input from former constable Beris Latham, of Mesopotamia.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 7.

Parliament

Time for a look at Grenadines travel AS PARLIAMENT here moves to amend t the Civil Aviation Act so as to bring this country’s airport operations in line with international security standards and protocols, at least one parliamentarian is calling for attention to other areas in need of heightened security. Opposition Parliamentarian for Central Kingstown, St Clair Leacock, said during his contribution to the debate on the amendment Bill to the Civil Aviation Act during the June 13 Sitting of Parliament, that the time had come for the relevant authorities to address issues of safety and security as it relates to travel to the Grenadines. Under that amendment Bill, the Minister of National

Security and Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves moved the motion for the amendments to be made in accordance with the requirements of international civil aviation bodies’ regulations pertaining to safety and security. But, according to Leacock, this was being discussed while there were far less stringent measures in place as it pertained to safety and security at other ports. “We are being prompted by international conformance with respect to our own airport infrastructure, [but] we don’t apply the same vigilance to a domestic situation, a marine situation or traffic from the ferry berth to the Grenadines,” Leacock said.

Opposition member of parliament St. Clair Leacock wants more attention to be paid to security and safety as those needs relate to ferry travel between St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “We don’t even keep a passenger list. God forbid the day we have a major tragedy; we will never even know who was on or who wasn’t on,” he continued. And on vessels, passengers embark and disembark not knowing where they can find life vests, in the event they may require one. Leacock lamented. “We don’t even have regulation to say that it is an offence to remove a life jacket from a ship,” as is the case with airlines, Leacock said. (DD)

GovÊt to assist Anglican Cathedral works GOVERNMENT is prepared to assist the Anglican community in the restoration project of the St George’s Cathedral Church in Kingstown. According to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, in response to a question posed by St Clair Leacock, Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown during the June 13 Sitting of the House of Assembly, Pews and other items have been removed from the government has been Cathedral which is currently in very limited use. involved in assisting churches in their to go toward the restoration project. reconstruction. However, Dr The Prime Minister acknowledged Gonsalves added, very often the assistance given is done very quietly. the St. George’s Cathedral was an important institution and an “For instance, the government important part of the country’s made a financial contribution to the restoration of the Methodist Church. heritage: “[I] am really anxious for us to do something.” I myself, upon the request from a Based on information provided by delegation from the Methodist the Diocese of the Windward Islands Church, also assisted by raising some website, the estimated cost for the money for that project,” he said. The Prime Minister disclosed that restoration project was put at EC$4 million. This is expected to cover the he had spoken to some members of cost of restorative work to include the Anglican community, and had work on the balconies, roof and already made the suggestion that government will do something and if ceilings, belfry, the timber floor asked, he said that he will also make supporting the organ, other flooring, windows and other miscellaneous some calls in an effort to raise funds work. (DD)

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 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 Hope drives the struggle DURING THE COURSE of the week, we heard from commentator Douglas De Freitas (note commentator and not Radio Station proprietor) that he was all but ready to ‘give up the fight’. If the truth be told, De Freitas has been at the Adam’s apple of the Unity Labour Party government like he was, albeit in shortened tenure, at that of the New Democratic Party government led by Sir James Mitchell. It appeared to many that De Freitas had cowed under the weight of Court ruling against him, for transgressions he had committed against the ULP regime and more particularly its leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Funny thing, though, De Freitas had got himself caught in the web of libel and slanderous pronouncements because he had, in his trust of others, ‘allowed’ his radio station to be abused by other commentators who have since vacated the public airways. So, he stands alone. Not quite! The outpouring of support for him and his station should be enough to prod him into rethinking his wanting to ‘give up the fight,’ i.e. to give up hope. What De Freitas and all of us who are courageous enough to voice an opinion need to do, is to accept that the most important effects of hope are often the most indirect. Have those of us who might have been involved in mass marches or protestation ever wondered if what we have done might have mattered to some unknown young person as he/she searched for a purpose in life? In any struggle, the presence of hope is essential to the long haul. Hope navigates a way forward between the false certainties of optimism and of pessimism, and the passivity that goes with both. Optimism assumes that all will go well without our effort; pessimism assumes it’s all incurable; both are likely to have us stay home and do nothing. Hope is a sense that the future is unpredictable, and that we don’t actually know what will happen. Notwithstanding, Douglas de Freitas, with all his human shortcomings which he shares with so many of us, must reflect on the adage that hope is also a belief that what we do might matter; might matter to an understanding that the future is not yet written. Hope informs an openmindedness about what could

happen and what role we can play. It looks forward, even as it draws its strength from the past filled with victories, complexities, and failures. Hope is not being perfect. To deny this is to fall prey to a belief that we can write the future. In our space and time, we can contribute to that writing but may never see its finality. De Freitas, like those who are wont to lose faith in humanity, must realise that anguish can coexist within us. Need we feel uninspired, reflect on Patrisse Cullors, one of the founders of Black Lives Matter, who described that movement as “rooted in grief and rage but pointed towards vision and dreams.” The vision of a better future must not be clouded by a denial of the crimes and sufferings of the present. In fact, it matters because of that horror. It was Michel Foucault, a French philosopher, historian of ideas, social theorist, and literary critic, who purported: “People know what they do; frequently they know why they do what they do; but what they don’t know is what what they do does.” De Freitas has done and will do what he can to influence what he perceives to be meaningful change for the betterment of his people and mankind. To give up the fight in the face of those who are responsible for the inequalities and disenfranchisement that others endure, is not to consider that what you do may do more than one can ever imagine for generations to come. So we plant a seed; a tree grows. How are we to know whether that tree will bear fruit, offer shade to the weary, or provide wood to build a bed? The truth is we simply cannot foretell how that tree will serve the environment in which it has taken root. But we can hope. Like a seed, so too will an idea. Sometimes the changes that result from ‘propagating’ that idea just might not remake the situation against which we struggle. In the final analysis, we simply do not know. The struggle for the truth, to separate right from wrong, is a calling to doing the best we can. What what we do does, is not up to us. But there is always hope that drives the struggle forward. Time to reflect, Douggie!

Assessing two years under the ULP (2001-2003)- Pt 2 Continued from last week. As to the PM himself, he is displaying all his strengths, which is the flip-side to his weakness. An admitted workaholic, he is also a compulsive talker who often lays a heavy emphasis on form and rhetoric at the expense of content and delivery of the product. For example one applauds the frequency of televised meetings of the House in the name of democracy, but is forced to accept that the main aim is to propagandize and perform for the public gallery. In a similar vein, “consultations” are not so much geared to mass enlightenment and people-involvement as they are to the tapping of sounding boards and creation of popular echoes. The ULP can fairly argue that it is early days yet to judge, and that their report card at the end of the day could well justify their rule. Such an approach may apply in dealing with new Library, Sports stadium and Housing Scheme. But airline travel, new airport, cross country road and new jail are almost sure to land the ULP in a great deal of trouble further down the road. In any event, the ULP blighted its stint on Day One when Dr. Gonsalves, aided and abetted by Beache, inaugurated a period of political patronage and victimization the likes of which had never been seen since the grant of Adult Suffrage just over 50 years ago. The ULP is truly “historic” in this sense. One can present a roll-call of examples on demand, but the tip of the ice-berg can suffice here and now. And the wrongs , which attend the public service, are legion and deserving of separate treatment in their own right! Anyone suspected of being NDP was moved out of the Vegetable Market, ostensibly to facilitate a rotation system of employment that stopped dead on the first round. In effect, the strategy has been to dig a hole to fill a hole, 1500 times to provide that number of jobs as promised. Media men Randy D, Keith Joseph, Jerry George, and Douggie De Freitas were put in the dog house to join offending culture men such as Scakes, Patches and “Saluche” Small. They dared to oppose or question ULP top brass.

As the former went down on one side of the see-saw, up went the fortunes of Glen Jackson, Lennox Bowman, Junior Bacchus, Cecil Ryan and other members of the “Champs dynasty” on the other side. Even in the matter of appointing JP’s, the ULP played politics. The badge was withdrawn from among other persons Algernon Wright, a former Assistant Commissioner of Police, as well as Yvonne Francis Gibson, former primary school head teacher, President of the SVUT, Head of the Women’s Desk and NDP Minister of Government. Both persons failed to qualify under the new regime. Things got so bad that even Leroy Providence, son in every particular of the great Labourite Leonard Providence, had to criticize his party for dismissing a local Government Worker in Troumaca, Miss Cornice Mars, who had been generally recognized as a decent and upright role-model in the locality. Under the ULP, political tribalism has attained new heights. Dr. Gonsalves’ best display of “togetherness” has been his capture from the NDP of Burns Bonadie whom the ULP had mercilessly attacked only a few months earlier in the general elections of 2001, just as Dr. Gonsalves had before the elections won to his side Cosmos Cozier after his straight run of 35 years with NDP which had refused to run him as a candidate. Though the dust is not settled, the news of recent dismissals of top staff Joel Huggins at Vinlec takes the cake. Apparently the art of victimization has now been personalized thus releasing a virus that could only lead eventually to political suicide. After two years in office, the ULP has forfeited the popular goodwill and squandered the euphoria, which it had triggered. As from now, it will be downhill to the next elections. The ULP first won Government in 2001. This article was anticipatory and prophetic as to where it was headed by now in 2017. It will take a mighty movement with all hands on deck, to stop the rot, much less to reverse the trend.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 9.

Letters

Manslaughter not murder of our culture PLEASE PERMIT me a space in your paper to express something that has been on my mind for the last few years. St. Vincent is a small country with very limited resources, but what we are very rich in, is our culture. The two most cultural times in our small country is Carnival and Christmas. However, I think having the House of Assembly meet in June and December is killing our culture.

The Problem Let’s take June 2017 for example. The preliminary judging of the calypso competition started on June 10th in New York. The other tents are judged June 13th to June 17th. Some, if not most, of these songs would not have been available for airplay until then. Therefore, on the days between June 10th and the calypso semifinals on June 30th, the radio stations need to be promoting these songs to the public. Calypsonians work very hard all year to create these beautiful songs. All they ask is for a little respect to get their songs played on the radio. Instead of hearing the music, we are left to listen to parliament. Visitors come to our shores for Carnival, and they want to hear some of our local music. They turn on the radio and what do they hear? Politicians talking about things that can be addressed at a different time, rather than during the biggest cultural event in the country. The same is true for Christmas time. Vincentians love Christmas. We love to hear Christmas music on our radio stations. It gets us in the mood for the season. However, during the Christmas season, when we should be hearing all the wonderful Christmas music, we have Parliament on the radio during that time.

Possible Solution Move the House of Assembly time to midJanuary and mid-July. Maybe there is a reason why the House of Assembly MUST be held at those times. If so, I apologize. I took the time to write this because I believe the politicians in charge are not intentionally trying to kill our culture. Hence I call it Manslaughter not Murder of our Culture. Thanks! TD Vincy - I may be contacted at this email address or tel nos below for questions or comments. Thomas Dickson (614-352-9404)

Camillo, be real!

CAMILLO, Sir, I-man’s asking you, now, tell me how can you be sitting there, and telling ‘we’ that you care, you really care, when you look around, and the same people that you say “Labour loved” they are suffering and suffering every day, in every way? What you have to remember is that we the people put you there. We didn’t vote for you to be a talker? We vote for you because we told ourselves you’re young and clean in heart, and that you’ll carry us through the right door of salvation, meaning —

let us wait in vain. All I want from you is loyalty. I’m loyal to you, and the ULP. We make you proud and happy. Do the same for us too. Last year you and others came to my assistance. You saw my Mann-James family’s situation. You were moved by the sadness you saw. You promised more help. You told my family and me you’ll make it your duty and give us a proper home. Don’t play Burgin on us, 2005 — 2010 — 2015 promises. I’m tired of the promises, Camillo. I need my

Thank you Glossy Bay I WISH TO express sincere gratitude to Mr. Bob Hathaway, Marina Manager at the Glossy Bay Marina on Canouan, along with his warm, hospitable staff, for hosting us on Monday, June 5th, 2017. It was certainly a pleasure to receive such a warm welcome to this world class, architectural masterpiece right here in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The design of the project encompasses various aspects of sustainability which is essential to the long term development of SVG. As such, I highly recommend the facility to members of the local and international seafaring and wider community.

Vincentian literature and development IN 2007, A TRILOGY on the republication of essays and commentaries that appeared in the “Flambeau” magazine between 1965 and 1968 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was completed. The first volume entitled “Search for Identity” (2006) focused on St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The second volume, “Quest for Caribbean Unity” (2006), focused on the wider Caribbean as well as on philosophical and religious topics, among others. The third volume, “Home Sweet Home” (2007), focused on poems and short stories. The contributors are mostly Vincentian-born but there are a few invited contributors from other Caribbean countries, as well from the U.S.A. and the former Yugoslavia. Many of the essays still have much relevance to today’s Caribbean society. The tremendous hurdles that small island states confront in the development process, still exist today. Many of the essays provide a benchmark against which to judge the progress that has been made over the last fifty years in Caribbean society. I would like to commend all of those early intellectuals who were willing to

things will be for the better according to God’s will. But, it seems, you have decided to make a joke of it. Now s no time for joking, Sir. People are looking up to you. In the first place, Sir, we the people never knew you; we never heard about you until election time. Yet, you were chosen before home boy Linton Lewis, and we knew Linton before you, imagine that. Camille, real people do real things. Don’t do us what Burgin did to us. We are good people trying to do better, don’t

share their thoughts and ideas on the development of the country and the region. Thanks to Dr. Kenneth John for the foresight in undertaking and preserving that very worthwhile initiative. The reissuance of the articles found in “Flambeau” was made more readily available to the public in the hope that they would be inspirational to future generations. I take this opportunity to encourage more such groupings and publications which would share constructive thoughts and ideas for the future development of the nation and the region. Thanks to Sir James Mitchell and Dr. the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves for their documented contributions to Vincentian literature, and the expression of their thoughts on development. Everyone has a role to play in investigating the challenges of development and finding solutions for charting the way forward positively, in the country and the Caribbean. May these efforts assist in furthering the cause of a better life for all. Cheryl Phills King

I commend Mr. Hathaway and his team for a job well done, and I wish that the projects’ entire development

house. Sir, you can’t be God Almighty. Only He can be here, there and everywhere. But you can stop, hold a corner and help your people. Don’t wait until 2020. We tired of the same thing over and over. Thanks, Labour Love!

evolves into a resounding success. On behalf of the CWSA Sports Club

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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The scolding of an Opposition Leader

Introduction IN THE END, IT was a sad case of a man not knowing what his function is, as leader of Her Majesty’s Opposition in Parliament. The current Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Godwin Friday, found himself at the wrong end of a scolding administered by the Prime Minister of the country, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. And all this was a direct result of the continued opposition by the New Democratic Party to the construction of the international airport at Argyle. Let’s reflect on a statement made by the founder of the NDP, Sir James Mitchell, that if the NDP allows Ralph Gonsalves and the NDP to build the international airport, then “crapaud smoke their pipe”. In a sense he was saying to the members and leaders of the NDP that their election fortunes will be impacted in a negative way, if the ULP completes the international airport. Naturally, the NDP being the nasty, dirty party that it is, will continue to oppose the airport to its detriment. Their latest campaign of accountability is a case in point. Accountability has always been the hallmark of the way the ULP administration conducts its business. It was the ULP administration who revamped the Finance Bill to make it far-reaching in terms of its provisions. It was the ULP administration who amended the Audit Act to give the Director of Audit more powers to carry out the functions of that department. In some cases, the Opposition abandoned their responsibilities, by absenting themselves from Parliament, when these Bills are being attended to. The Finance Bill is a case in point.

The scolding And so the Leader of the Opposition Godwin Friday came to Parliament to ask a question about the accounts of the IADC. The question was flawed from the very start. He wanted to know if the IADC was up to date with the filing of its financial reports with CIPO, the Commercial and Intellectual Property Office, and went on to ask when the accounts will be reported to Parliament. Only days before, Friday stated at a media conference that the filing of the reports at CIPO, was of no importance. Why therefore, did he pose this question to Prime Minister Gonsalves? In any event, Prime Minister Gonsalves had to provide him with another chapter and verse lesson, about the accountability factor as it is applied to government owned companies and statutory corporations. It came as no surprise to many people that there were serious gaps in the education and information base of the Leader of the Opposition, when it comes to governance and the Parliament. For example, Dr. Friday referred to the IADC as a statutory corporation, and it is clearly not so. And then there is his interpretation of the provisions of the Constitution as these relate to the functioning of the

office of the Director of Audit. It was pitiful to hear Dr, Friday being offered lessons in this area, and even worse, to hear the Prime Minister Gonsalves declare “I could lead you to the stand pipe, but I can’t make you drink”. Clearly, Dr. Friday is not willing to learn. How can he aspire to become the next Prime Minister of this country, when such elementary information escapes him? People are indeed disappointed with his performance in the Parliament of the 13th June, 2017. He will never live that down.

Julian Francis Senator Julian Francis is a seasoned and a wily Member of Parliament, with an astute sense of reasoning; a difficult campaigner to challenge in any debate in the House of Assembly. So that when he “jammed up” Godwin Friday, it was a scene to behold. So that when the Senator inquired of the Leader of the Opposition if he had written to ECCAA seeking to have that body not grant approval for the opening of the airport, his answer was a disappointment. Dr. Friday’s response was weak and limp. He said that what he did was a matter of public record and that if the senator wanted he could go and find the truth. Well there was no need for Julian Francis to do so, since it is a matter of public record that in a bid to stop the airport from opening on February 14th 2017 that the Leader of the Opposition did write to ECCAA, seeking a withdrawal of the original approval. It showed how far Dr. Friday was willing to go to deny the deserving citizens of the country, the pride and joy in the official opening of this new facility. The resulting exchange between Senator Francis and the Leader of the Opposition was a wonder to behold, as Dr. Friday struggled to explain an encounter between himself and some secondary school students, while travelling on the ferry between Bequia and the mainland.

Conclusion In the face of all this, how can the NDP claim that it supports the Argyle International Airport, and further, that it is committed to its success? Perhaps it is only the member for Central Kingstown, St. Clair Leacock, who has shown any tangible support for the airport. Leacock has been quoted as saying that the construction of the project was “money well-spent”, and that the project itself was a miracle. The performance of Dr. Friday in Parliament, and his subsequent scolding by Prime Minister Gonsalves, does not do much for his credibility. He has let down his party and his supporters, and he needs to get his act together.

We must save NICE Radio CAN YOU IMAGINE St. Vincent and the Grenadines without NICE Radio? NICE Radio has been offering incredible service to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Diaspora. It is number one in sports coverage, top in broadcasting of cultural activities, offers remarkable service to the Christian community, and is the voice of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). NICE Radio’s listenership has grown tremendously since it came on air. It airs the number one talk show in St. Vincent and The Grenadines, ‘The New Times Programme’, which is produced by the NDP. It is perceived as the opposition station. Moreover, Vincentians at home and in the Diaspora are given the opportunity by NICE Radio, to openly criticize policies of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime. In the competitive nature of politics, there are occasions where radio personalities may have crossed the line, and those individuals and the radio station have been sued. In the current episode involving NICE Radio, Dr. Gonsalves is seeking to collect a huge sum of money from NICE Radio, that was awarded to him by the court. Failure to pay Dr. Gonsalves his money may eventually see the closure of the radio station. It is obvious that the Managing Director of the station is not in a financial position to settle the amount. Therefore, a committee has been established and it has begun to raise funds through various means, to settle the outstanding bill. It was done before; when the late E.G Lynch was sued, and Vincentians at home and in the Diaspora paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to save NICE Radio. NICE Radio is the people’s station and the people will not allow it to be closed. The NDP also has interest in the radio station and will play its part to keep it on air. Have you ever wondered why so many attempts have been made to force NICE Radio off air? Is it to stifle freedom of speech? Is it to silence those who criticise the ruling ULP regime? Is it to make it difficult for the NDP to spread its message? Is it to allow the ULP regime to control the air waves, so that Vincentians can be fed with a diet of lies and propaganda? What do you think? These are essential questions that all Vincentians must think seriously about. Furthermore, NICE Radio has been playing a significant role in sharing information that the ULP regime does not want us to know. It was on NICE Radio we heard that the government was deducting NIS contributions from employees and not paying it over to the NIS. It was on NICE Radio we heard that US$1 million was deposited at the former National Commercial Bank. It was on NICE radio we heard that the ULP government has failed to present audited financial statements to parliament for the International Airport Development Company, Petro Caribe and PDV SVG Ltd. It was on NICE radio we heard that thousands of passports were destroyed. And the list goes on and on. We must do all that is possible to ensure that NICE Radio stays on air. Thank you, Vincentians, for saving NICE Radio and democracy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Entertainment Services We are in the carnival season, and it is an opportune time to emphasize our plans for entertainment in St.

Vincent and the Grenadines. Music is the world’s universal form of communication. It touches every person of every culture on the globe, through an industry worth an estimated $40 billion annually. Given the creative ability inherent to our nation, we can capitalise on this economic prospect. In restructuring our economy, an important part of our nation’s competitive strength will lie in the creation of knowledge-intensive intellectual property based goods and services. The recording industry represents a viable sector that can be capitalised to our benefit. This is one of those economic activities that we must strive to do better than the people of any other nation in the Caribbean. In setting up recording production facilities, regional and international markets are vital to the sustainability and success of such an industry. We can develop and provide a world class service that will primarily cater to the increasing talent and unique musical identity inherent to the Caribbean region. Why should we lose our talent and the associated economic benefits to international interests? The established and ever increasing international appeal of Caribbean music should redound to the benefit of the Caribbean. A recording industry will provide economic benefit to thousands of people, including performing artistes, musicians, arrangers, producers, sound engineers, record promoters and retail sale persons, to name a few. Of added profits are the backwards and forward linkages associated with an industry of this magnitude, such as instrument development, music technology, retail and wholesale market, music festivals and paraphernalia such as tee-shirts and posters. The talent is evident, the market is proven, and the technology and expertise are readily available. The NDP intends to develop the competencies to merge these aspects towards deriving economic, social and cultural benefits. A recording industry will create employment and generate foreign exchange. In addition, St. Vincent and the Grenadines also proved beyond doubt that it is an ideal location for film making in many different formats. This is borne out by SVG being chosen for Sports Illustrated swimsuits photo shoots, the full length feature film Pirates of the Caribbean, and other television and films documentaries. This is a tribute to the efforts of the previous NDP administration to put St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the international map. A foundation has been laid on which the NDP administration must build when it returns to office. As we seek to capitalise on our natural attributes of place and people, we will attract film makers and photographers to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We will provide incentives for such activities that will lead to benefits for our people. The NDP will encourage local photographers to develop their competencies, so that they could provide related services to interested parties, and will acquire the services of a specialised promotional agency to market St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the world.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 11.

Views

Position and Possession

“Insecure persons look for importance in position and possession.” — Maxwell Moyo, South African life coach POSITIONS AND POSSESSIONS are fragile. They can be here today and gone tomorrow. They may provide some fleeting degree of comfort, good feeling, or sense of accomplishment, but it must be known that these are all transient. They are brittle. They are temporary. They sometimes appear to fade away just as quickly as they are achieved. Some readers may disagree with the statements that emerged in the preceding paragraph. They may argue that, based on their experiences and observations, individuals can be identified who retain powerful positions in business, government, and other organisations for a relatively long time. In the same vein, they may hasten to identify persons who amass and retain a tremendous amount of material wealth over a prolonged period. Some inherit positions and possessions from their parents and other relatives, and appear to be poised to pass the position and possession baton to the next generation. However, in the whole scheme of things, positions and possessions are temporary — transient. They are like a vapour that appears for a moment and then quickly vanishes away. We therefore need to be reminded of the wise sayings of King Solomon (in the Old Testament) who reminded us that these are vanity. Jesus Christ of Nazareth also reminded us that we are to be so very careful about our focus in life. He said (and still says), “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?” Weighed against eternity, our positions and possessions are of no value. We brought nothing into the world and there is no way that we can take anything out. This does not mean that we should not aspire to have a comfortable life or to leave an inheritance for our children and/or grandchildren. The bible advises us to do so. However, we are to be guarded against having our aspirations for position and possession consume us. This is especially so if/when the temptations emerge to seek to get those “by any means possible” — including via dishonest means. Many men and women have been lured to titles and wealth through what they initially considered to be “the easy way”. Many are now physical, emotional, and/or spiritual wrecks along life’s pathway. If the truth be told, some may give the impression that they are happy, but deep down inside they are tormented with guilt, grief, regret, and much sorrow. Ambition is not necessarily a bad thing. We should all aspire to improve our various conditions in life. There is nothing wrong in academic pursuits and/or preparing self for a job promotion, or career advancement. These are desirable. Each of us should accept the challenge to better our various conditions. However, we must commit to doing so by honest means. We must be prepared to study hard and work hard for what we desire. The temptations will always emerge to seek to get by with the least amount of effort and energy. There will always be persons around who will seek to entice us to get by with minimum effort. But there is value in struggle. There is wisdom in committing to walking the

high moral and ethical road. Our thoughts and desires must be such that if they were to be published on the front page of the local and/or international newspapers, we can still hold our chin high and watch everyone full in their faces (without batting an eye) as they read aloud those secret pronouncements of our thoughts and actions. Many homes, neighbourhoods, and workplaces have been tainted by those who unwisely sought the path to great positions and possessions through illicit, illegal, and dishonest means. Some emerged from “good homes” where they were taught the right thing. From their childhood, they were tutored and coached to be honest and truthful. In their pre-teens, they were mentored and encouraged to not be distracted by titles and/or material possessions. However, there was that fleeting moment, that lure, that pull, that temptation that seemed to entice them to take a “temporary walk down the dark side”. Sometimes that is all the bait that is needed to encourage the visualising of a life of power and ease … at any cost. But what a cost! As the school term nears its end and so many of our youth prepare to hustle and jostle for positions in the world of work or to start their own businesses, these words ring through with a powerful reminder that honesty and integrity must be on the frontlets of their minds. This is especially so in relation to the very bright and talented ones who may wrongly assume that they can “trick the system”. This is so far from the truth. The true story is told of a young man who worked in a commercial bank at a period when he was going through some difficult financial times. The local lottery was paying out massive sums of money. He was aware of some dormant accounts at the bank. He contemplated “borrowing” some money from such accounts, confident that he would be lucky enough to win the grand prize and return the money to the account debited. He did not win. He tried again and failed … and was now in a deeper financial hole than when this “bright idea” (but really a “dumb idea”) was entertained. Over time, the internal audit at the bank discovered his indiscretion. Today, he is a fugitive in a foreign country — never able to return to his homeland for fear that he will be arrested. Was it worth it? Those luring moments of indiscretion when temptations emerge to draw us to positions and possessions via dishonest means, must never be entertained. We must sing from a different song sheet. We must march to a different drummer. We must forever focus on walking the moral high road. We must know that getting positions or possessions “by any means possible” is not part of our DNA. We will be guided by the Golden Rule. We will use God’s word, the bible, as our manual of procedure. We will study long and work honestly and hard for our positions and possessions. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

The corrupting influence of Dark Money POLITICAL PARTIES spend a lot of money during elections. Plain Talk first called for campaign finance reform in 2005 when there was a virtual auction for the East Kingstown seat, which pitted former NDP leader Arnhim Eustace against ULP General Secretary - Julian Francis. Last year, during a parliamentary debate, PM Gonsalves disclosed that the opposition NDP had received a ‘donation’ of US$500,000 to assist in its elections effort. Recently, a local businessman told me a ULP politician dismissively asked him if he thought a $10,000 donation could run an election. We can be sure that both major parties receive significant monetary contributions from unknown sources, to finance their respective campaigns. One does not have to be a PhD in political science or economics to conclude that these contributions, from dark or unknown sources, are bound to have a corrupting influence on our politics. In the debate last year, PM Gonsalves made plain his belief that the persons who made the donation to the opposition intended to put their hands on our passports, to engage in an economic citizenship scheme. There has never been disclosure of ways in which the respective parties fund elections campaigns, but we can be sure that there were donations from various sources that need to be brought to the bright glare of scrutiny. There is no denying that unregulated money poses real risks to democracy. Among these threats are the control of candidates by financiers; dirty or illicit money corrupting the system; an uneven playing field, those with less money being less competitive. There is also the significant danger that in the complete absence of regulations, big money, commercial or criminal, can exert undue influence and get favours from politicians in terms of the awards of contracts/subcontracts, the granting of tax waivers, the unjustified issuance of licences and approvals, protection from law enforcement, and unmerited appointments to public boards and offices. Without regulations, it’s ‘open sesame’ for the powerful to corrupt. Even with regulations, ways are found to circumvent the law. It is no accident that in 51 of a 107 countries in 2013 (Global Corruption Barometer), the political party was regarded as the most corrupt institution among the majority of the citizens in the US, UK, Germany. Good governance best practices demand greater transparency regarding campaign financing. This is not a shout in the deserted forest. The call for campaign finance reform is picking up speed. But as Trevor Monroe said recently, ‘don’t expect sprint-like movement. This effort is more like a marathon.’ But there is hope. On May 17, 2017, the Jamaican House of Representatives passed the Political Parties Registration Regulations. These regulations give effect to the Registration of Political Parties Act passed three years ago. In February 2016, the government passed the Campaign Finance Reform Act. The political party registration and campaign finance reforms shall:

and contributions from persons with government contracts above a certain level. 4. Ban anonymous donations and contributions from foreign governments. 5. Bar public-sector entities from campaign-related advertising. 6. Introduce limited and regulated public funding. 7. Establish a robust monitoring and enforcement system, including granting the Elections Commission of Jamaica power to deregister political parties in breach of the law.

These reforms gained momentum after the 2007 elections when a shadowy financial outfit, Overseas Locket International Corporation (OLINT), was said to have had a decisive influence. OLINT, led by David A. Smith, reportedly contributed US$5 million to the Jamaica Labour Party and US$2 million to the People’s National Party. OLINT was declared a ponsi scheme by Turks and Caicos and US authorities. Smith spent 5 years in a T&C jail and is doing even more time in the USA. As political scientist Trevor Monroe tells the story, the effort at reform in Jamaica goes back to May 2002 when the Senate passed a resolution which called for a national commission on political party funding. In November 2003, Edward Seaga, then leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), charged that “tainted money” influenced the internal JLP elections. On May 19, 2004, the then minister of national security confirmed the connection between politicians and drug money. In April 2005, then Prime Minister P.J. Patterson called for an appropriate regime of party regulation and political funding for Jamaica. On April 12, 2006, the Governor General of Jamaica in the Throne Speech declared that the Government “intends to give priority to the transparent and realistic financing of political parties”. In October 2006, the revelation of the contribution of the Dutch oil firm Trafigura to the People’s National Party stimulated consensus in the media, among civil-society groups and the private sector, on the necessity to speed up political party and financing regulations. In November 2010, the Jamaican Parliament approved the Electoral Commission of Jamaica’s (ECJ) report on political party registration. Then, in April 2012, Parliament approved, “with concerns”, the report and recommendations of the ECJ on campaign finance reform. These concerns were considered and a second ECJ report on campaign finance reform was debated and approved by the House in September 2013, and by the Senate in November 2014. In February 2013, Minister Paulwell, then leader of government business in the House said: “I expect that campaign finance reform will be promulgated by the end of the first half of 2014.” Therefore, campaign finance reform 1. Require a political party to submit may be a good issue for the local branch annual financial reports to the Electoral of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Commission of Jamaica. Association to tackle. Jamaica may offer 2. Set limits on how much an some guidance. individual can give to a party and how much a party can spend. Send comments, criticisms & 3. Require disclosure of big donors suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

ULP regime pension reform lacks fairness

THE ULP REGIME has reformed pensions, be abolished. phasing in the pension age from 60 years The argument given by the ULP to 65 years over a number of years. This regime is that, to guarantee pensions, pension reform lacks fairness and should the pension age must move from 60

years to 65 years. However, according to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, who has an MSc in Macro-Economics, Budgeting, Planning and Policy from Bradford University, England, this argument is hogwash. It is the strength of a country’s economy that guarantees pensions. With a strong and vibrant economy, government can invest the pension pot in strong and vibrant sectors of the economy, and get a higher return for the pension pot. This would make the pension pot grow more and guarantee pensions for all. The problem in SVG is that the ULP regime’s economic incompetence has seriously weakened the economy, and now it is practically impossible to find an economic sector in SVG, in which to invest the pension pot, that would bring significant returns. Unemployment is high, most businesses struggle to get sales, and virtually no money is circulating in the country. The pension reform is not based on fairness and is a stab in the back of the employees in SVG. Moving the pension age from 60 years to 65 years will lower the quality of life for our people when they retire. In 2028, if a person retires at 60 years of age and qualifies for a pension of $500 per month at 65 years of age, that person will lose 30% of their pension. That person

will receive $500 - $150 = $350. This is outrageous and a significant reduction. In 2028, if a person retires at 55 years of age and qualifies for a pension of $500 per month at 65 years of age, that person will lose 60% of their pension. That person will receive $500 - $300 = $200. This is also outrageous and a huge reduction. In 2028, if a person retires at 55 years of age and qualifies for a pension of $300 per month at 65 years of age, that person will lose 60% of their pension. That person will receive $300 - $180 = $120. Water, electricity and food are expensive. What quality of life can a household have on this? These examples show that the penalties imposed by the ULP regime for early retirement under their pension reform are harsh and unfair. The ULP regime’s pension reform is even more vicious, when you consider the fact that people have to pay more to receive less. The rate of pension contribution has increased from 8% to 10%, as from 1 January 2014, with employers paying 5.5% and employees paying 4.5%. Also, at 31 December 2015, the qualifying contribution for pension was 500 weeks, but by 1 January 2028, the contribution will be increased drastically from 500 weeks to 750 weeks. This is a massive price to pay, and in return, be rewarded by a 6% reduction for every year an employee retires before age 65 years. The ULP regime pension reform is wicked and totally unacceptable and should be abolished. SVG needs a strong economy to guarantee pensions. It is precipitation that brings water, not drought. Only a Green Government can create a strong and sustainable economy, and hence, guarantee high rates of pension in SVG at age 55 years and 60 years. SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org https://twitter.com/svggreenparty https://www.facebook.com/SVGGreen-Party-154937087877631

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 13.

Education

SMMS graduates urged: ÂUse your success for the good of othersÊ

life. “We don’t want to go through hardships, so study your books — today’s challenge is to see outside of your selfishness,” he admonished the graduates. “Too often, we get caught up thinking about ourselves — society teaches us that it is supposed to be about us,” Rev Davis continued.. He challenged the 55 graduates to ask themselves: What will Wendel Edwards, my success mean for Principal of SMSS, someone else? reported on another And in addressing challenging year, the issue of challenges, especially those Principal Wendel incidents thrown up by Edwards in his forces in the wider Principal’s Report, noted society. that this year, like those in the past, had its challenges. “We were faced with a number of incidents that tried our faith,” Edwards said. “There were some forces out there that were on a mission to destroy the educational system,” he continued. “They support unruly behavior; the threats that principals and the Ministry of Education see are real,” the principal said. Rev. Adolf Davis He then made a call challenged the for all the relevant graduates to look stakeholders to unite in outside of their order to defeat the forces selfishness. that threatened to THE 2017 GRADUATING destroy the nation’s class of the St Martin’s students. Secondary School (SMSS) “Ours is not an have been challenged to institution of look beyond their success lawlessness…. far too and strive to assist others. much is at stake.” Rev. Adolf Davis, But while there had Superintendent of the been some challenges, Kingstown/Chateaubelai there were some r Circuit of the positives to report …. a Methodist Church, and lot more students were featured speaker at the meeting well above the SMSS’s graduation required standards, ceremony on Tuesday at according to Edwards. the R.C. Cathedral of the It was also a good Assumption, Kingstown, year for the school in said that individuals are sports, the Principal called upon to do well in remarked. (DD)

The SMSS graduating class of 2016/17.

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

Simon Bolivar School vessel visits SVG A contingent of trainees that made up the complement of over 150 men and women.

Venezuelan Navy, as well as guests from Suriname, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic and Panama. According to a release from the Embassy of Venezuela, Kingstown, the purpose of the visit was in keeping with ‘strengthening ties of friendship and brotherhood between the peoples of Venezuela and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.’ On the day of its arrival, an official guard of honor and welcome ceremony was held at the Cruise Ship Berth. During the ceremony, Yuri Pimental - the Venezuelan Ambassador to St. Vincent — welcomed a Vincentian delegation which included Frederick Stephenson Minister of National Mobilization, and former Minister of Education Mike Browne. Ambassador Pimental Students took the opportunity of guided tours expressed gratitude to the of the vessel. Government of SVG for the support they have shown to Venezuela over the years. Stephenson, in response, also expressed thanks to Venezuela for supporting SVG. During the days that followed, students from across St. Vincent were given guided tours of the vessel. Members of the public also used the invitation to tour the vessel which, in addition to being outfitted with equipment used for training, is exquisitely decorated internally and externally. The interior is Adult Vincentians of all walks of life also made it their business to get a first-hand view adorned with images of Venezuelan heroes Simon of the vessel.

ON WEDNESDAY, June 14th, 2017, the Simon Bolivar School vessel – a training vessel - arrived for the first time in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as part of its twenty-ninth instructional Cruise. The vessel, whose previous port of call was St. Kitts, remained in Port Kingstown until Sunday 18th June. The vessel’s complement included a crew of 186 officers and cadets of the

The Simon Bolivar School vessel leaving Port Kingstown after its inaugural visit to SVG.

Bolivar and former President Hugo Chavez, and numerous awards that Cadets demonstrating the ship has received. There was time also for the cadets and other crew members of the vessel to engage in friendly games of football and softball with Vincentian teams — including the SVG Royal Police Force - a feature in every port of call the vessel makes. A special ceremony held on board on Thursday 15th June was addressed by Prime Minister Sr. Ralph Gonsalves, who expressed joy for the visit that, according to him, “represents the bonds of brotherhood between our peoples which, since the arrival of the Bolivarian Revolution and the Government of the ULP, have become much stronger.” The Simon Bolivar School vessel

seafaring skills. departed Port Kingstown on Sunday, June 18th at 09:00 AM, after being in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines one more day than expected, due to the adverse meteorological conditions in the region. The vessel, also known as the ‘Venezuelan Ambassador Without Borders’, was built in Bilbao, Spain, in 1979, and has a rich history, having participated in Operation Sail in 1986 and again in 2000, visiting New York city on both occasions. It is named in honour of Simon Bolivar, the Liberator of Bolivia, Columbia, Peru, Ecuador and Venezuela. (KH)

Part of the welcoming party for the vessel.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 15.

Industry

FishermanÊs Day prize giving ceremony held

Fisheries - Saboto Caesar, and his Permanent Secretary - Raymond Ryan. Gonsalves and Caesar were said to be engaged in preparations for Parliament the following day. The 2017 Fisherman of the Year trophy went to Vanrick Allick, captain of the boat ‘Rainbow’, for his catch of 452 pounds of fish on the day. He earned himself a $3000 cash prize, 1 case of Hairoun beer, 1 flare gun and an additional cheque of $16,500 in place of the usual 75HP outboard motor, which could not be sourced locally at the time. Vanrick Allick, 2017 Fisherman of the Year, Running a close second accepts a prize from Miss SVG 2017– Jimelle to Allick was Kenroy Roberts. Bruce with a catch of 440 pounds. He was rewarded THE ANNUAL FISHERMAN’S DAY with $2,000, 1 case outboard engine activities concluded on Monday 5th June oil, 3 life jackets, phone credit, 2 at the Calliaqua Playing Field. However, bottles of Vodka, among other items. . the usual awards ceremony held on the Last year’s Fisherman of the Yearsame day, was Ray Anthony Clarke was third, postponed in landing 433 pounds of fish. He respect of six pocketed $1000 and took home 1 case persons who were of outboard engine oil, 3 life jackets, 2 reported missing at bottles of Vodka, 1 case of beer, along sea on the day. with a quantity of nylon and fishing When the hooks. awards ceremony Female Fisher of the Year went to did get going on Earla Matthews. She received $500 Monday, June 12, and a trophy among other prizes. at the New The heaviest single fish, 279 Kingstown Fish pounds, was caught by Shemrock Market in Little Jennifer Pierre. He was awarded $100, 1 case Tokyo, most of the of outboard oil and 1 case of Hairoun Cruickshankawardees were Howard, Chief beer. Fisheries Officer, absent, as well as In the Beach Seine category, Eli Minister of gave a detailed Slater took the top position with a Economic Planning catch of 3,699 pounds. For his and his account of the -Camillo level of crew’s effort, they were presented with participation and Gonsalves, and a cheque for $2000, 2 bottles of Vodka, Minister of catches for the 1 case of beer, one gift voucher valued Agriculture and day. $500, a diving tank, 25 pounds of flour and nets. Randolph Bradshaw, the only junior competitor, landed 19 pounds of fish and was rewarded with $200, a trophy, nylons and a number of fishing hooks, all compliments FLOW. Students who participated in the Fisherman’s Day poster competition were also rewarded. There was a noticeably strong representation of students from the Sugar Mill Academy when award time came around. Addressing the gathering, Jennifer Cruickshank-Howard, Chief Fisheries Officer, apologized for the absence of the government officials. She said that the Fisherman’s Day activities commenced on May 5th, and between that day and June 5, a series of activities, e.g. Fish Nights, School Programmes, was organized by various Earla Matthews, 2017 Female Fisher fisherfolk co-operatives. of the Year, gets her award from On Fisherman Day, a total of 4,448 Nicoleen Lewis – 1st Runner-up Miss pounds of fish was registered as SVG 2017.

Randolph Bradshaw, the only junior competitor, accepts a trophy from Miss Nicoleen Lewis.

Students of the Sugar Mill Academy featured prominently in prizes awarded for the Fisherman’s Day Poster Competition.

having been caught, CruickshankHoward said. This total was accounted for by 212 participants. Fifty-five boats registered for the Fisherman’s Day Competition; 24 of these returned with

catches. This year’s Fisherman’s Month of Activities was held under the theme: Save SVG’s Sea Turtle, One Turtle at a Time, and with the slogan: Catch No Turtle, Eat More Fish. (KH)

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16. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Crime Watch

Relatives at odds over dead teenÊs fate road”, and he didn’t have any choice. “The ghetto accepted RELATIVES of Kemel Peters are him,” she said, adding that he at odds over what could have was just 15 years old when he driven him to his tragic end. took to being on his own. Peters, 17-year-old male of “That is a young age to be on Green Hill, succumbed to your own,” she continued. gunshot injuries he received The relative said that during a gun attack at Mc Coy Peters told her that when he Street in Rose Place. Peters was shot at last year, he along with Shamaai Hazell, 25 believed he was mistaken for years of Paget Farm, received someone else. But she believes gunshot wounds to their that he was killed this time bodies. Both men were rushed because he had testified in a to the Milton Cato Memorial case that involved someone. Hospital where Peters Peters, along with Aaron subsequently died. Delpesche, escaped being hit At least one female family when a gunman opened fired member is of the view that if on them at Lower Bay Street, Peters was allowed to stay at July 4th, 2016. home despite his issues, he On May 22 this year, Peters might have still been alive. gave evidence against Ottley The relative, who professed Hall resident Karon ‘Twin’ to have had a very close Bowens in that matter, and relationship with the Bowens was sentenced to five deceased, said that Peters years after being found guilty never showed her a sign of of having an illegal firearm rudeness. “He was good to and discharging it at Peters me,” she said. and Delpesche. The relative opined that the Continuing in her family “left him up to the conversation with THE by KENVILLE HORNE

began leaving home at age 15. “He was back and forth between home and Edinboro,” she explained, and (she) recalled that during this time, she and another relative tried to encourage him to return to school. “I spoke to him. He was back and forth between Green Hill and Edinboro. He didn’t stay (home) long,” said the The flip side relative. “Each child have their own However, another female mind. The family did their relative, Peters’ cousin, best, he just followed disagreed with the notion that the wrong crowd,” the family did not try enough. “I don’t think he was neglected the cousin insisted. As for the family, by his family. I would say that his father was ‘old school’ and they are “holding together” a relative Kemel wanted to be like his own man going back and forth, said. “The family is and his father didn’t want strong, the bond is that,” said the cousin. strong, everybody is “His father love him very there for one much and he was a favourite another and we are among his aunt and uncles. I a God-fearing would say he got caught up with the wrong crew,” she told family,” said the cousin. THE VINCENTIAN. She confirmed that Peters

VINCENTIAN, the relative said that a few weeks ago she had spoken with Peters and, like she did on previous occasions, she encouraged him to do right. “Others might have a different opinion, but he was never rude to me and would always listen when I speak with him,” she repeated.

Kemel Peters – homicide #13 for the year to date.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 17.

18. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

If you have to Evacuate DON’T PANIC. An orderly, but immediate evacuation will help ensure that you arrive safely at your destination. •

Take Evacuation Kits.

•

Gather your important documents: insurance papers with the name and phone number of your agent, medical records, driver’s licence, property photos, inventory check list, etc.

•

Turn off water, gas and electricity.

•

Lock all windows and doors.

•

Call friends and relatives to inform them of your destination. When you arrive, call again to let them know you are safe.

•

Leave the area, but not the region. Roads may be congested and the more time spent on the road, the greater your chance of being stranded by the storm.

Hurricane Safety tips P • • •

Enter the season prepared. Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast. Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters.

Evacuation Kit (Things to carry if going to a Shelter): • • • • • •

• • • • • •

Blankets/sheets for each member of the family. Identification cards for everyone. Important documents secured in water tight containers. Medicines and prescription drugs. Books, games, playing cards, etc., (this may be an extended stay). Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, toilet paper, feminine products, paper towels, etc. Extra clothes, shoes, etc. Baby food (if necessary) Food for 3 days. Drinking water Foam mattresses. Cash

•

re-Season Preparation

• •

Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit. Have plenty of batteries and flashlights Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.

When a watch or warning is issued • Leave low lying areas. • Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters. • Secure outside objects. • Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water. • Have several days supply of food and water for each family member. • If called to evacuate, do so immediately.

and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio. Have supplies on hand. Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.

• •

After the storm •

Make sure that all is definitely clear outside, and the storm has completely passed before going out. Report downed power lines, and stay away from them. Use stored water and food. Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal.

•

During the storm • • • •

Stay in Secure Room. Stay away from windows. Do not use the phone, or candles. Monitor Weather

• •

Source: www.hurricaneville.com/safety.

Your family plan of action T IS IMPORTANT for you to know what to do in case of an emergency. Your Family Plan details who does what, where you go and what you take along. Practice drills will help

I

prepare you and your family in the event you need to implement your plan. By the following, adapting to fit your specific situation, you will be better prepared for a disastrous storm.

destination. Remember, low-lying areas may be unsafe for travel during a storm.

any repairs necessary: check the roof for loose sheeting/nails; clear the

• Review your insurance policies and coverage.

• Determine where you and your family will go (to a relative, a friend, an emergency shelter) in the event you have to evacuate or you think that you may not be safe at your own house.

• Take photos and/or video footage of your property. Store this information with your important papers. Make copies of the documents and photographs and leave them with someone you trust.

gutters and drains to ensure proper drainage; cut loose overhanging branches; check the ground for debris or items such as furniture that could blow away.

• On a map, outline the quickest and safest route • Visually inspect your needed to get to your home and property. Make

Storm Names Source: AccuWeather.com

• Purchase plywood, rope, extra nails and tarpaulins for protecting windows and doors. • Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit.

2017 Hurricane Season Arlene Harvey Ophelia Bret Irma Philippe Cindy

Jose Rina Don Katia Sean Emily Lee

Tammy Franklin Maria Vince Gert Whitney

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 19.

Inspecting and protecting your home y following the suggestions below, your home will have a better chance of surviving severe weather. Start at the top: Check for any loose sheetings or loose nails on your roof. Make sure the gutters are tightly hinged and that they drain freely. Check the storm drains for any clogging. Work your way down: Check all windows and doors to ensure there are no loose panes/hinges. It is highly recommended that you install approved hurricane shutters over windows and doors to protect your home against strong winds.

B

• If the power goes out, turn off your water heater, air conditioner, electrical appliances to reduce the chance of damage.

• Do not leave your house until it has been confirmed that is safe to do so. It may seem as if the storm has passed, yet you could be in the calm eye of the hurricane.

• If flooding occurs, turn off all electricity at the main breaker box.

•

• Do not use your computer or any electrical device during the storm.

Make sure your car has a full tank of gas.

• Withdraw money beforehand - the storm may knock out power at ATMs.

How to protect your business during the storm ountless businesses have been wiped out, both physically and monetarily due to hurricanes. Here are some ways to protect your business during the storm:

C

• Create a Disaster Plan. • Post a copy of the Evacuation Routes on each floor of the building. • Fax a copy of the Evacuation Routes to clients, customers and vendors. • Designate a meeting area in the event telephone lines are down. • Practice evacuation/fire drills annually with employees.

• Contact clients, customers and vendors when you return to your place of business after the storm. Update them on your company’s status. • Have your business appraised every 4 years.

Storing Food I

DEALLY, you should have enough non-perishable food items on hand to sustain your family for 1 week. High energy, high-nutrition foods are best. If the power goes out, eat the • If a hurricane poses a threat, foods in the refrigerator first, before secure your windows and doors. eating food in the freezer. Only open the refrigerator and freezer doors • Back up all data files and store when needed - the longer the door them in another location. stays closed, the longer the food lasts. Non-perishable foods are to be used • Make provisions to work without primarily after the perishable food electricity, water, sewerage and items from your refrigerator and telephone service for up to 2 weeks. freezer are consumed. • Have your building inspected annually by a certified building inspector.

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

I married my grandmother!!! purely on sex. She promised me the best sex I’VE BEEN MARRIED for 23 ever and convinced me that women who were in years and I believe my their 40s were sex marriage has run into an machines. I married her inevitable rock. I am in my forties but blindly. Now, I just want out of got married at age 20 to this marriage and I have a woman who was 49 at the time but looked to be been telling her that, but she is accusing me of in her thirties. My using her. I’ve wasted immediate relative and friends were against the enough time with her marriage from the start. and want to get on with the rest of my life. I Today, my wife is in don’t want any assets her seventies and looks that we may have more like she is in her accumulated together. I eighties, and acts more just want my freedom. like my Grandmother. Living with her is sheer She looks old and acts old. She complains that hell and I need to be away from her. How can I don’t take her anywhere, but how can I? I break free without feeling guilty of using I am totally ashamed to her as she claims? I don own her as my wife. not want any Sex with her is not counselling. even an option. I feel like I’m sleeping with my Regrets Grandmother. When we got married it was based

Dear George,

legal advice on how to proceed so as to avoid bumps in the road ahead Thank you for your letter and your honesty. for either of you. Talk to your wife It is said that marriage about your feelings and is something that ought why you think a not to be entered into marriage annulment is lightly. For example, the best option at this the age factor must be point. She can and may closely examined before taking such an important fault you for many things, but your honesty step. would not be one of If your mind is made them. up about exiting the marriage, then you will George be well served to get

Dear Regrets,

Forget about this girl Dear George,

I LOVE THIS woman but she does not believe it. I have shown her in many different ways how much I love and want to be with her, but she is not budging. She is presently with another person who does not treat her well, and I have been trying to convince her that she deserves better — me. The girl she is with is a close friend of mine who has messed with me in the past, while she was with another person. lover. Truth be told, I really want to be with Dear Disappointed, George, he is a terrible this girl, but she insists on kisser and I have us just being friends. I You should not be suffered bites on my beating around the bush can’t eat, sleep or tongue numerous times , with this guy. You have concentrate properly and even had a tooth already made your mind because of her. I need her, spalled after he tried to up about him, and it is George, and you need to demonstrate how well tell me how to get her. only fair that you let he can kiss. As for the him know you are bedroom? He is just a ‘Sherry’ moving on. mouth champion, if you You do not have to know what I mean. delve into the details as Dear ‘Sherry’, What he is lacking to why you are leaving, otherwise, he tries to You cannot force but he should know you make up with ‘mouth.’ are not satisfied with someone to love you and to I left him out over two what you are getting. be with you. The girl you months ago, but he does Avoiding him is not are after is involved with not know it yet. I have the way to go. Have someone else, and whether just been avoiding him, that face to face talk and you think she does deserve thinking he would get get it over and done better, it is her choice to be the message and leave with. You have a right with that person. me alone, but he cannot to get what you want The suggestion for you get it. I just do not from a relationship, but two to be friends seems a want to hurt his I would only hope that good one to me, and it is feelings by telling him sex and physical either you accept that the truth about his attributes and or ‘qualities.’ performance are not the proposition or move on in your search for a partner. only criteria set down.

A mouth champ Dear George, THIS MAN WHOM I’m with presently is all mouth and little or no action. He sweet-talked me into being with him. He bragged about being the best kisser and best

Disappointed

George

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) A trip to visit relatives should be rewarding. Organize your day well if you wish to accomplish all you set out to do. Lovers may no be truthful. You can get a great deal accomplished if you bring work home.

neglected your mate. Your emotional partner will push the right buttons this week. You can meet potential new mates, but make sure that they aren’t already committed to someone else. Partnerships will be successful.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Enjoy a quiet dinner for two and discuss some of the plans you have for the future. Don’t push your luck with authority. Be careful when dealing with investments. Trips should be your choice.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You can make new friends and get involved in new hobbies successfully. You can make a huge difference to children if you are able to put yourself in their shoes. Your charm will be captivating. You may become rundown if you take on too much.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) You need to get out and have some fun to reduce tension. Someone you live with will be quite unreason able this week. Start sending out those resumes. In‐laws may cause difficulties. Travel should be considered. CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Your self‐confidence will attract members of the opposite sex Try to concentrate on research and acquiring information that will be of value in your chosen field. Be creative in your pursuits. You may be able to get some good advice about your personal problems. LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Don’t vacillate about asking for assistance if you need it. You need to make changes that will raise your self‐esteem, such as a new hairstyle or a new image. Follow your gut feeling regarding your business ventures. Someone you live with will be quite unreason able this week. VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Lovers will be demanding. You are best to sign your partner up for activities that will be tiring. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity. Don’t make those you live with feel unloved or unworthy. You are best to do your research before taking on such a venture. LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Uncertainties regarding your love life will surface if you have

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Money problems will get worse if your partner hasn’t been playing by the rules. Changes in your domestic situation will prove to be favorable in the long run. Don’t delay; go to your physician or dentist and get to the bottom of the discomfort. Do not react too harshly when dealing with partners. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Your ability to stand out in a crowd will bring you the recognition you desire. You may not be happy if members of your family are not pulling their weight. It’s time to get yourself back on track. Try to be honest when dealing with your mate. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. Use your better judgment before you sign up for a costly venture. Get involved in fitness programs that will bring you in contact with new friends. Family outings will make you feel secure and happy. PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You can bet that someone in a higher position is watching to see how busy you are. Check into art objects or precious stones. You can do well in group endeavors. You can make a difference if you take a position of leadership. Seminars will provide you with knowledge and amusement.

ACROSS 1.Republic of W South America 5. Sister of Mary and Lazarus 11. Encourage in wrongdoing 12. King of the fairies 13. Message symbols 14. Galling 15. Using no fluid 17. Ten decibels 18. Frozen water 19. Basis 20. Porcelain tableware 23. Raw hides 24. Speed contest 25. Bring civil action against 26. Before 27. Proclaim 31. Call to arms 33. Doing nothing 34. Flat roofing tile 35. Close 36. Agent inducing vomiting 37. Consumers DOWN 1.Large almost

tailless rodent 2. Ebony 3. Advise 4. Pertaining to the uterus 5. Motion picture 6. In bed 7. King 8. Pertaining to a tribe 9. Not disposed to cheat 10. Fishes 16. Wood sorrel 19. Direct route 20. Bring into being 21. Section of

New York City 22. Glacial epoch 23. Tavern 25. Shrub of the cashew family 27. Hungarian

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 21.

sheepdog 28. Notion 29. Narrow strip of wood 30. Possessive pronoun 32. Furrow

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 23.

SVGFF consecrates EC$2 million property Anglican Bishop Leopold Friday going through part of the consecration exercise of the SVGFF building (pictured at left).

President of the SVGFF- Venold Coombs showing the deed for the property at last Friday’s consecration. WITH THE BLESSING bestowed by His Lordship The Right Reverend C. Leopold Friday, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Windward Islands, last Friday afternoon, the administrative building owned by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), was consecrated. The 1326 square feet property, which is part of the FIFA funded Goal Project

programme, is located at the corner of Higginson and Grenville Street, in capital Kingstown. Operating from the premises since July 2016, last Friday’s ceremony marked the formal opening of the SVGFF owned premises. President of the SVGFF — Venold Coombs related that the delay in the formalities was merely bureaucratic. Addressing those who questioned the hold up in the opening, Coombs noted, “Because of the fact that you wait a few days on government to assess the building. “A long time ago we paid two million dollars for the building and I bring the receipt and I show the country the receipt,” Coombs said forcefully, as he held aloof the deed for those present to see. The SVGFF president hailed the achievement of the SVGFF owning its own building as another milestone in the successes of his administration. “… No other sporting body in this country owns a building,” Coombs boasted. The administrative building adds to the asset base of the SVGFF, assets that also include the technical centre at Brighton, a team bus, as well as an office vehicle. Previously, the secretariat of the SVGFF was based in rented properties located at Sharpe Street, Murray’s Road, New Montrose, and more recently at the Nicholls Building located at Bentick Square.

Reports are that over the years, the SVGFF paid as much as $4,600 per month as rental for office space. The realisation of owning a property of its own has long been coming for the SVGFF.

Over ten years ago, under the St Clair Leacock-led executive, the Federation had purchased a piece of land at Quarry, at a cost of $120 000. However, there was a legal tangle which had to be resolved in the law court over the ownership of the land, leading to the deal being quashed.

National Senior Football competitions nearing completion TWO OF THE SENIOR DIVISIONS of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation National Club Championships are nearing their end, while the winner of the other has been decided. System Three has secured the Women’s division. Playing unbeaten in their four matches, they accumulated a maximum 12 points along the way netting 4 goals and not conceding any. Second to System Three was Camdonia-Chelsea on seven points, followed by Volcanoes in third with six points. The other two teams contesting that division

North Leeward Predators- one of two teams heading to the premier division of the next SVGFF National Club Championships.

were North Leeward Predators and QCESCO Titans Ladies. Meanwhile, the First Division will be decided Former national goal keeper- Dorian this Sunday at the Chili Phillips (left) in conversation with Playing Field, when North current SVG goal keeper- Lemus Leeward Predators meet Christopher at Friday’s consecration. Largo Height beginning at 4pm. North Leeward Predators got to the final beating Owia United 3-1 at the Chilli Playing SABRINA MITCHELL Anthony Sargeant as Field on Saturday, has been returned Assistant Secretary/ while on Sunday, Largo unopposed as President of Treasurer. Height edged out Je Belle the Bequia Basketball Three committee 2-1 at the Brighton Association. members were also Playing Field. She was re-elected at a elected, namely, Leandru The North Leeward recent genral meeting of Charles, Sydian Warner Predators and Largo the Association, and will and Vernell Phillips. Height have already been serve for the next two Rick Gurley was assured of promotion to years — 2017 — 2019. appointed Assistant the Premier Division. Also returning to the Games Secretary. Before Sunday’s Final, Executive are Cornelius Of immediate concern Owia and Je Belle battle Farrell as Vice President, for the new Executive will in the third place play off Colson Peters as be staging of the Annual Bequia Basketball New Executive: Sabrina Mitchell from 2pm. Treasurer, Delwain Basketball Tournment And, Avenues United Simmons as Games which marks its 19 edition reelected uncontested as President of the BBA. Secretary and Kelan this year. and System Three are the Edwards = - Players’ This year’s Tournament representation from eleven Duke, Titans, Dragons, two front runners to take teams: East Blazers, Rockets and Young Representative. is slated to bounce off on the Premier Division race. Rising Stars, Raptors, Wizards. Newcomers to the July 19. Avenues United Wizards, Blazing Heat, Executive include Givin The Annual General remains the lone unbeaten Southern Stars, Young I.B.A.ALLEN Forde as Secretary and Meeting saw team in the division,

Bequia elects new B’Ball Executive

having played 8 matches, winning five and drawing three, to tally 18 points. But it is the defending champions- System Three that leads the points tally with 19 points, but has played nine matches, won six, drawn one and lost two. Completing the top four places are Hope International — 18 points from nine matches and BESCO Pastures, 17 points from 8 matches. The others in the division are Sion Hill, SV United, Bequia United, Je Belle, Camdonia-Chelsea, Richland Park Pride and Joy, Greiggs and Volcanoes in that order. The two teams which finish eleventh and twelfth in the Premiership, will be demoted to the First Division of the next club championships. The age group competitions - the Under11, Under-15 and Under19 - are still some way off from finishing.

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24. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

SVG second in OECS Under23 Netball Tournament DESPITE PLAYING unbeaten like host Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines had to settle for the runner- up spot in the 27th hosting of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Under-23 Netball Tournament. A pending adverse weather system last Monday, led to a decision to abort the showdown between defending champions Grenada and fourteen times winners St Vincent and the Grenadines, slated for the Tanteen Sports Complex, St. George’s. As a result, the title was determined by goal differential. This worked against St Vincent and the Grenadines, as Grenada had a superior goal difference.

In their opening fixture on Friday, St Vincent and the Grenadines beat Montserrat 74-12 and had a 44-38 downing of St Lucia on Saturday. The Vincentians swamped Anguilla 88-16 on Sunday night and outscored St Kitts 51-32 on Monday morning. Grenada’s run saw them outscoring Anguilla 74-14, and handing defeats to St Kitts, 46-21, St Lucia, 32-28, and Montserrat, 89-5. SVG registered 257 goals and conceded 98, with a goal difference of 159; Grenada scored 241 and had 68 scored against them, a differential of 173 goals. Grenada, therefore, retained the title, making it their third in succession. St Lucia was third, St Kitts —

fourth, Anguilla — fifth and Montserrat — sixth. St Vincent and the Grenadines was also second in both the team and individual shooting competitions. Ariel Stephens The SVG Under-23 Netball team poses with placed second in their trophies. Inset: Khadijah Williams-Mills the individual - Most accurate shooter of the Tournament. segment. Vincentian Rosannia Stephens Khadijah Williams-Mills was the was adjudged St Vincent tournament’s most accurate shooter, and the Grenadines’ and St Vincent and the Grenadines Most Valuable Player. was adjudged the best attacking team.

Team Athletics SVG names OECS track and field team

TEAM ATHLETICS SVG has named an eighteenmember team, including a 12 year-old, for this year’s OECS Athletics Championships, set for the Kirani Athletics Stadium in Grenada, July 1 and 2. Several overseas based athletes are included among the 18. The men’s team include Kimorie Shearman, Delhonni Nicol-Samuel, Kasique Oliver, Kemroy Cupid, Jabarri Michael-Khensu, Jumonne Exeter, Richard Crick, Akani Slater, Mc Kish Compton, and Javiel Saxon. Those based overseas are Shearman, Nicol- Samuel, Oliver, Cupid, Michael- Khensu, Exeter and Crick. The women’s list include Kineke Alexander, Zita Vincent, Darria Mathias, Linda Mc Dowall, Shantel Williams, Ulanda Lewis, Annecia Richards and Shahalia Lynch. Alexander, the most experienced and decorated in the lot, Delhonni Nicol- Samuel, is the lone female who is not based in St Vincent one of SVG’s gold and the Grenadines. medalists at the 2016 And, set to make their Championships. debut appearance for St Vincent and the Grenadines are Michael- Khensu and Richards. However, it will also be the first senior outing for Saxon, Lewis and Lynch. Lewis, the youngest member of the team, at age 12, will compete in the 4x 100 and 4 x400 relays. Ten countries are slated to participate in this the third edition of the championships, which has the backing of the Association of National Olympic Committees of the OECS (ANOCES). In addition to host Grenada, the countries seeking honours are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Martinique, Montserrat, St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines. When St Vincent and the Grenadines contested the 2016 edition in Tortola, the British Virgin Islands, they placed fourth and collected two gold, five silver and six bronze medals. Gaining gold were NicolSamuel in the 5000m, and the quartet of Shearman, Oliver, Slater and Brandon Valentine- Parris in the 4 x400m. The silver medalists were Vincent in the 1500 and 3000m, Alexander — 400m, Exeter- Triple Jump and Nicol- Samuel, 1500m. Copping individual bronze Ulanda Lewis – one of the eight females selected to represent SVG.

medals last year were Alexander in the 200m; Valentine- Parris in the 400m, Tamara Woodley1500 and 3000m. St Vincent and the Grenadines was third in the men’s 4 x 100m and the women’s 4 x 400m. The 2017 SVG team will have Andrew Bramble

as manager, Godfrey Harry as head coach and Thelma Foster as chaperone. The British Virgin Islands won last year’s championships, with St Kitts and Nevis- second and Grenada third.

Andrew Mapp – SVG’s best at NACAC Age Group championships ANDREW MAPP finished in the best position, 10th, in the male 11-12 category of the North America, Central America and Caribbean Age Group Championships, which took place last Saturday and Sunday at the Haseley Crawford Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago. Mapp, a first form student of the St Martin’s Secondary School, was the fastest in the 60m dash in a time of 7.88 seconds. He amassed a total of 2756 points from the five events Pentathlon, , which also included the 1000 meters, Long Jump, High Jump and Baseball Throw. Three other Vincentians placed 15th and two ended in the 17th spot. Gail Ann John was 15th in the females’ 11-12, as was Grenisha Thomas in the females 13 to 14, and Verrol Sam- male 13-14. John compiled 2272 points, Thomas- 3455 and Sam- 4331 points. Placing 17th were Almarie Providence- females 11 to 12 and Assonnae Ollivierre, the females

13 to 14. Providence had 2240 points and Ollivierre- 3308 points. Omar Baptiste and Jadyn Delpesche were the other two St Vincent and the Grenadines representatives. Baptiste’s 2210 points put in 27th place in the males 11-12, while Andrew Mapp- finishing ahead in Delpesche was 26th in the males the males 11-12 60m. 13to 14. Delepsche recorded 3898 points. included head coach- Chester St Vincent and the Grenadines Morgan and Chantel Legair, the finished second in the mixed relay assistant coach and chaperone. in the 11- 12 age group. Trinidad and Tobago’s Lebron James was the male 11-12 overall winner and Samiya Dell of Barbados- the female age group’s top finisher. Matthew Sophia of Curacao and Shaniqua Bascombe of Trinidad and Tobago, were the 13 to 14 males and females RAIN PLAYED havoc with last individual champions, weekend quarter finals games in the National NLA First Division respectively. Sunday League 50 Overs Cricket The 13- 14 age class were involved in competition. In fact, all games scheduled seven eventswere rained out, causing the SVG Heptathlon. Cricket Association to release a Other than the statement outlining remedial eight athletes, St action. Vincent and the The release read, inter alia, Grenadines “In light of the First Division contingent also Quarter finals games that were rained out on the weekend of The eight Vincentian 18th June, 2017, the SVGCA has athletes who decided that the games will be represented SVG at replayed, the NACAC Age Group championships. Continued on Page 25.

Weekend cricket rained out

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 25.

Sports

Salt in the wounds THERE IS AN opportunity for the West Indies to rub salt into India’s wounds. They were anticipating coming to the West Indies with the ICC Champions Trophy securely tucked under their belt. No one saw a Pakistani rout coming, especially in the wake of the preliminary mauling they suffered at the hands of the Indians. The West Indies have to go for the jugular. Because it’s the festive season, they could employ the Observer philosophy and “deal with them.” India have hit a low. Their prestige, pride and morale have been dealt a severe blow. The fallout from the Kumble/Kohli conflict will leave an impression. West Indies have to play real cricket on the field of play and also ride on the psychological depression that is bound to come with the ICC final loss. Kohli is the typical modern day super star. They resent any shade of apparent authority. It boils down to a question of ego. Kumble has proven himself to be courageous. Which other Indian batsman will return to the crease with a bandaged jawbone? The new era in cricket has already skunked deep. Players are opting for the secure payments. They must be careful not to kill the goose that lays the golden egg. Australia is experiencing a similar impasse to the one which has thrown the discord in the West Indies camp. The money crisis climaxed with the abandonment of the Indian tour. Following negotiations, matters came to a settlement such that people viewed this five match ODI Series and T/20 with India as avenue for India to revel in the splendour of their ICC Championship trophy glory. It will have to be a face saving endeavour for the Indians. It will take time for them to adjust to the reality of the Pakistani victory. West Indies have to be ready for the games. They cannot afford the lacklustre approach they employed against Afghanistan. The West Indians have to be ready, pumped and charged, and pounce on the Indians. We have to go outside the routine and use tactics to which the Indians are unaccustomed. Our selectors have to be bold. There is no harm in including Sunil Ambris. He has proven his worth on the regional level. If that is the yardstick, the time to reward him is overdue. If others could have grafted their way into the squad on the basis of one innings, or on being viewed as having potential, Ambris has shown the consistency to merit attention. It is up to the West Indies Women to keep the regional flag flying. Speculations are rampant as to what impact the West Indies would have on the ICC Champions tournament. They could have used it as an opportunity to step up industrial action or hold the Board to ransom in demands for money. The West Indies Board could have given into requests and outbursts from players. And having taken the title, take to the airwaves to chastise those who ensured their participation.

Mary’s — best bowler. Pamelus Burke Government was adjudged the Most Disciplined School. Eight schools from a preliminary round FANCY PRIMARY SCHOOL Fancy booked their Government in sixth. involving a total of 57 are the new champions of The other qualifying place in the finals when schools qualified for the the Scotiabank Kiddy they defeated St. Mary’s team — Paget Farm play offs. Cricket Skills Festival. Government did not make RC, while Cane End did The northernmost away with Pamelus Burke it to the mainland, due to I.B.A.ALLEN school on mainland St. Government School to the weather system that Vincent captured the title earn their finals berth. threatened the state when they beat Cane End Pamelus Burke last Monday. Primary School, 237 runs Government eventually Those students to 206, in the finals took third place, ahead of taking individual played last Monday at the St. Mary’s in fourth, awards were: Shania Arnos Vale Sporting Calliaqua Anglican School Lewis from Fancy Complex. Primary - the best in fifth, and Sion Hill fielder; Kyle Bowens from Fancy Primary As projected by THE the best allrounder; VINCENTIAN, Jeremy Corey Mapp from Layne will Cane End - best lead this batter; and Delarno country’s Benjamin from St. Under 19 cricket Fancy Primary School team, in - new Skills Festival this year’s champion. edition of the Windward Islands Under 19 THE FRENCH VERANDAH SVG Roxell John, Sports Coordinator at ChampionCommunity College cricket team will the SVG Community College, will ship. be represented by a fifteen-man squad serve as the team’s Manager/Coach. Jeremy In fact, at the 2017 edition of the Sir Garfield Kody Horne and Kashaka Bulze Layne leads Layne will Sobers International Schools Cricket will travel as the Assistant Manager a balanced lead a Tournament, to take place in and Trainer respectively. SVG squad thirteenBarbados from July 9th to 24th. This is the second year the French in defence of member The squad will be led by the SVG Verandah SVG Community College is the squad who National Under 19 cricket captain, participating in the tournament. They Windwards will be Jeremy Layne, a first year student at placed 5th in the sixteen-team U19 cricket seeking to the Division of Arts, Sciences and competition in 2016. title. defend the General Studies. Twenty four teams - four from title. Ronaldo Franklyn, a former England, nine from the Caribbean, A release from the SVG National Under 19 off spinner and a one from the USA, one from Canada Cricket Association lists six second two student at the Division of and nine from Barbados - will play in Arts, Sciences and General studies, is three groups in the preliminary round, returning players in the the team’s vice captain. before the semi-finals and finals which squad: Jeremy Layne The unit will also include national are carded for July 21st and (captain), Dillon Douglas Under-19 players in Urnel Thomas, 23rd respectively. (vice-captain), Tijorn Pope, Tilron Harry, Rayon Williams, Selron Williams, Tilron Jerremy Haywood and Rayshorn I.B.A.ALLEN Harry and Urnel Thomas. John. Those called up for the Alex Samuel, Romando first time include: off break Browne, Randall Roberts, bowlers Jerremy Haywood Zivon Walker, Gregory and Roshorn John; seaming Wyllie, Zidan Sutherland, allrounders Rayon Williams Donte Hinson and Aleon and Jadiel Chance; wicketCaesar complete the keeper batsman Jeheil playing squad. Walters, and opening batsmen Sealroy Williams The SVG Community and Rondel Williams. College will field a team in The selectors — Roland the Sir Garfield Sobers Wilkinson, Cleton Burnett, International Schools Samuel Holder, Ian Allen Cricket Tournament. and Irvin Warrican — also named four reserves: Romando Browne, Alex Samuel, Aleon Caesar and Continued from Page 24 Handel Roban. SVGCC versus Victors One at Arnos Vale 1 on Saturday; Providence The squad, sporting the A reserved day will be set aside for all Electronics North Leeward oppose successful management rained out games in quarter finals, Combined Youths at Arnos Vale 1 team from 2016 - Parnel semifinals and finals in the First on Sunday; and Rudy’s Electrical Browne (team manager), Division. If the scheduled reserved day Unique Warriors face Radcliffe Too at Irvin Warrican (head coach) is rained out, the following shall Stubbs. and Roxell John (assistant apply: In event of a no decision game In NLA Premier Division games coach) — will depart SVG for (rained out) teams advancing to the this weekend, Police play Victors One St. Lucia on Sunday 25th semifinals will be decided from their at Sion hill, Flow Radcliffe take on June. The Championships points standing and/or net run rate in Team Rivals at Park Hill and Carl will run from Monday 26th the preliminary games. A tie game Joseph Law Chambers ASCO clash June to Sunday 2nd July. will be decided by a super over.” with Guardian General Saints at The following games are scheduled Arnos Vale 2. I.B.A. ALLEN for this weekend: French Verandah I.B.A.ALLEN

Fancy Primary takes Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket title

Layne to lead SVG U19 cricket team

SVGCC heads to Garfield Sobers Tournament

Weekend cricket rained out

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26. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017. 27.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

JUNE 23, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.25

www.thevincentian.com

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METROCINT REWARDS TOP CPEA STUDENTS Metrocint. And last Wednesday, IT WAS A CASE of the first Desiree Richards, Managing partnering with the first, when Director of Metrocint Genneral two of the top three performers Insurance Co. led the handing in this year’s Caribbean Primary over of those bursaries to Exit Assessment received Rosario Browne and Chenise monetary assistance/bursaries Harper. from the first indigenous Browne, with an average of insurance company of St. 98 percent, topped the list, Vincent and the Grenadines, while Chenise shared the Metrocint General Insurance Co. second position with another That connection came as a female student — Genevieve result of the parents of the two Mc Master. performers being longMs. Richards, daughter of standing insurers with Egerton Richards, founder of by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Rosario Browne (centre) accepts his cheque from Desiree Richards – Managing Director of Metrocint – in the company of his mother Rosalind Pinder-Browne (right).

Metrocint General Insurance Co., was elated by the children’s success. The Metrocint family, started some forty-nine years ago, welcomed “Metrocint is two new members – Chenise Harper (2nd from left front) and Rosario happy with what Browne (2nd from right front). these children have accomplished,” founding father Egerton She pinned the students’ Richards exclaimed. success to “good parenting.” Richards. She alluded to numerous Richards highlighted Ian Da Silva, Metrocint’s community interactions with Metrocint’s endorsement of the Insurance Manager, which her company is family foundation. acknowledged that when associated, but described the “We encourage a family-like Office Manager Coleen Fraser assistance to this year’s top atmosphere at our company,” observed that the top two students as “one of the she stated. students were Metrocint’s happiest moments.” The two top clients, it generated students begin immediate consensus. their secondary Da Silva has been in education in contact with the parents of September, and both students through they were transactions over the years. bestowed with Rosario’s mother - Rosalind Metrocint Pinder/Browne deemed last Honorary Wednesday’s activity a “great Ambassador gesture” by Metrocint. She status by the used the occasion to Managing “encourage others to come to Director. Metro.” Besides the Chenise’s father, Freddie financial Harper, commended Metrocint assistance, the on a “good initiative. students were “A lot of businesses should given copies of do what Metrocint is doing. It the book would encourage students to ‘Vincentian perform,” Freddie said. Entrepreneurs’ He outlined that the more Chenise Harper gladly accepts her cheque from Ian Da which features assistance students get, it will Silva – Insurance Manager of Metrocint – in the company Metrocint’s be better for them. of her father Freddie Harper (right).

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.