Issuu

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY

26, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.08 www.thevincentian.com

Demolition above board Page 3

Unlawful detention Page 4

EC$1.50

It’s an eruption Page 12

A true patriot Page 17

COVID survivor’s story Page 24

WOMAN COMMITS SUICIDE

The area where Jack was first spotted behaving in a strange manner.

by KENVILLE HORNE

A YOUNG WOMAN OF FANCY, North Windward, who had a history of mental issues, is reported to have committed suicide by drinking a poisonous substance. The information received is that on Friday 12th February, Akeila Jack was first spotted by a number of vendors in an area used for parking between the Paint Shop and the Anglican School Annex, just across from the Leeward Bus Terminal in Akeila Jack succumbed not only to a poisonous substance but to her battles with a mental challenge, from all reports.

Kingstown, acting in a strange manner. According to one of the vendors, at one point she was heard to exclaim that persons were accusing her of being married and it was not true. On observing what appeared to be a green substance coming from the woman’s mouth, the vendors ran to her assistance, put her in a vehicle that took her to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where she died from the effects of ingesting what could have been the herbicide Gramoxone, according to reliable sources The police were called in after Jack was taken to the hospital and they were able to question her before she passed away. One of the persons who helped to take her to the hospital said that Jack was reluctant to tell the police from whom she had purchased the poisonous substance, admitting only that she had purchased the item in the Central Market. The person also said the last thing they heard from the woman was her asking the doctors, “Me goin to die?”

A troubled soul THE VINCENTIAN heard from reliable sources that Jack had

been admitted to the Mental Health Centre, Glen, on at least three occasions. “She does have mental breakdown. She use to be normal but an incident happen change she life,” said a relative. According to that family member, Jack was pregnant for a St. Lucia man

but “she got rid of the child, and when the man came to look for the child, she couldn’t show the man the child.” To the amazement of relatives, friends and residents in her community, Jack went to St. Lucia Continued on Page 3.

Another watchman killed by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Police Force is appealing to the public for information surrounding the death of a watchman, 67-year-old Christopher Greaves of Vermont. According to the Police, Greaves’ decomposed body was found by residents of surrounding communities at about 8:45am last Sunday, February 21, on the compound of the Emerald Valley Casino, Penniston. Greaves was said to be employed as the sole watchman at the Casino and was known to spend much of his time there. A post mortem revealed that his death was caused by “multiple blunt trauma injuries to the chest and the back of the head.” Greaves’ killing marks the fifth

homicide for the year. Investigations are ongoing. Greaves’ death is the second such incident involving a watchman, in recent time. Irwin ‘Charmer’ Patterson was discovered dead at a Stone/Aggregate operation in Jill Bay, Mt. Wynne on November 24, 2020. He was one of the security (watchmen) personnel employed at that operation. Patterson suffered a similar fate to Greaves. Inquiries into Patterson’s killing are being done.

2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Business

SAGICOR re-commits to clients and communities THE CARIBBEAN’S leading financial and insurance company, Sagicor, has entered 2021 committed to further improving the experience of its clients and the lives of those in the communities within which it operates. This focus was recently highlighted by Mr. Robert Trestrail, during his first official address to the company as the new President and CEO of Sagicor Life Inc., a position he took up effective January 1st, 2021. Speaking during the company’s annual, motivational team meeting, called “Ignite”, which was held virtually this year due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Trestrail delivered a message to Sagicor’s team members in Aruba,

Barbados, Belize, Curacao, the islands of the Eastern Caribbean, Trinidad & Tobago and Panama, which focused on the meeting’s theme of “Stronger Together”. He made the point that throughout 2020, Sagicor pulled out all the stops to ensure the company continued to deliver on its promise to its clients. “Our various teams and departments came together to ensure we could indeed make good on our promises, quickly transitioning to a work from home environment, while executing a variety of administrative moves, system and technological rollouts, especially during the early stages of lockdown, which allowed us as a company to achieve pleasing results in 2020”, said Trestrail.

“Despite the many, significant challenges posed by the pandemic, we continued to meet and, in many cases, exceed the expectations of our clients, which will once again be the focus of all that we do in 2021.” The 20-year Sagicor veteran, stated that “the global and regional environment will continue to evolve, and we are prepared to evolve with it. We look forward to getting into new markets that we haven’t penetrated in the past, bringing new products to the market, along with embracing and continuing to lead the innovation that will be coming through the various digital frameworks being worked on.” Regarding Sagicor’s Corporate Social

Responsibility response to the challenges created throughout the region by the COVID-19 pandemic, Trestrail said that the company’s efforts came as a natural response and helped to live out the Group’s Vision. He pointed to the fact that very early in the pandemic, Sagicor committed US$1 Million to support Caribbean governments’ fight against the spread of the virus, along with providing assistance to those individuals and families who were most vulnerable the crippling impact of the virus. “Moving into 2021, we at Sagicor will continue to seek out ways in which we can improve the lives of those in the communities within which we operate”, said Trestrail.

President & CEO of Sagicor Life Inc, Mr. Robert Trestrail. Recognising that much continue to focus on our more needs to be done to communities, because when we grow our aid the Caribbean in defeating the pandemic communities and impact them positively, the and for its citizens to rewards that come from return to a life of normalcy, Trestrail that are unimaginable.” assured, “We will

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 3.

News 3 Buildings demolished: ‘Controversy manufactured’

THE STATE FOLLOWED THE LAW in acquiring the properties in Bentick Square, Kingstown, that have been demolished to make way for the construction of storage facilities to serve the Laboratory and related specialized services, at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). According to Senator Julian Francis, Minister of Urban Development, Energy, Airports, Seaports, Grenadines Affairs and Local Government, the controversy that arose as a result of claims made by relatives of the owner(s) of one of the structures demolished, was “manufactured.” Third and fourth generations always have questions, Francis quipped. “The administration has dealt with all the legal aspects of the acquisition and the law was followed,” Francis said on radio on February 21. The issue was made public when a media entity reported that at

These buildings along the lower end of Tyrell Street, some showing signs of their original architecture, are earmarked for demolition. least one of the families had indicated that they were not aware that the building which belonged to the family for generations, had been acquired by the government and was now being demolished. They further contended that they have been paying property tax, with the most recent payment having been made this month (February). Minister of Health, St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, had said during the 2021

Budget debate that the buildings had been acquired, earmarked for demolition, and that storage facilities were going to be constructed on the site. On a related development, Francis said that the five buildings along the lower portion of Tyrell Street (Back Street), beginning with the building adjacent to the Co-op Gas Station down to the ambulance entrance at the MCMH, were also going to be demolished.

The heavy duty equipment sits on the area on Bentick Square from where three structures were demolished. “The Ministry of National Mobilization had already done its work — that is to say that they have already gathered the names of the individuals and last Wednesday (February 17), the details were finalized as to how they would be dealt with,” Francis said. One of those buildings housed the Melborne Artisans Mas tent for the last ten years or so.

According to Francis, bids have been received for the demolition works to be undertaken. He noted that no definite use has been identified for the site just yet, but it will be converted for parking in the meantime. The idea, he said, in essence, was to clean up the area and provide for space under the hospital expansion project. (DD)

Minibus strike not necessary

This action of ‘parking up their buses’ was part of the action that the PM deemed unnecessary. THERE WAS NO NEED for the withdrawal of public transport service last week, especially during a time like now. That was the expressed opinion of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. “And you make a show of it driving down the road, a number of vans crawling down the road not picking up any passengers and annoying other road users because you [are] crawling,” Gonsalves said of the minibus operator action last week Monday. And he chastised the minibus opertors saying, “…. we have been asking to hold each other’s hand, the first thing you think about is to withdraw service to punish the people and make things worse, and I said there was money in the Budget.”

In addressing the claim of no provision in the 2021for the minibus fraternity, Gonsalves said that government had allocated EC$7.25 million for COVID-19 support to specific groups although, he admitted , there were no specific recipients groups identified at the time of presenting the Budget, save and except reference to small businesses and social groups, Gonsalves said that he told Royron Adams - President of the Vincentian Transport Association (VINTAS) - that none of what was done had any influence on his decision. He made the comment on February 24 on NBC Radio’s ‘Face-to-Face’ programme, days after he said he had given instructions to the Director General of

Finance and Planning to make provision for the payment of two months of support to minibus operators, EC$500 for 18 seaters and EC$600 for those carrying over 18 passengers. Gonsalves explained that he had indicated to Adams that they can work with the list for 2020 where 441 minibuses had registered to receive the subsidy, but added that work would have to be done to get new minibuses registered, and to remove from the list the minibuses which are no longer operating since last year. The Prime Minister also announced that the sanitization of public transportation vehicles will commence, this despite some minibus operators who avoid the process. According to Gonsalves, he had made it “plain to VINTAS” that the subsidies would not be paid if the minibus operators did not follow the protocols. “You cannot come and ask for the money and still go jam up the vehicle with 18 passengers,” Gonsalves warned. He also noted that minibuses were required to work a minimum of four of the five weekdays during the time the subsidies were being paid. “Because the tax-payers cannot pay you to stay home,” Gonsalves said. (DD)

Woman commits suicide Continued from Front Page. and, according to relatives, on her return (home) she was never herself again. Many persons formed the opinion that someone had ‘hurt’ Jack while she was in St. Lucia. A resident of Owia and friend of the deceased shared the narrative that Jack was ‘hurt’ and described Jack as “very cool and a normal person” before her visit to St. Lucia. On her return, “Every February she tummy does get real high and she does be washing baby cloths,” said the female friend of Jack’s unusual behavior. The female friend recalled that there was an incident involving a dead baby that was found in Kingstown, and Jack was rumored to be the mother. Jack’s family is said to be originally from Barrouallie but she grew up Fancy, and attended the Georgetown Secondary School. This whole affair, as per a conversation with a medical doctor, “reeks of our unwillingness to deal with mental illness as an illness and not as something that we must scorn or avoid.”

4. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Unlawful detention leads to acquittal Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS A QUESTELLES man who was charged with escaping lawful custody more than two years ago, may have exposed further what lawyers have been complaining of for several

years. Jovanny Alexander walked free when Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett found the police in breach of Section 35 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which makes it unlawful for the police to detain anyone for more

‘Butter Bread’ ‘heads for the High Court RAPHAEL ‘Butter Bread’ John will face a judge and jury to answer to a charge for attempted robber. John, a resident of Glen, was on Monday committed to stand trial in the High Court for attempting to rob a cart man, Vaunley James, also known as ‘Coco Joe’, who also resides in Glen. John is alleged to have used a knife during the incident which reportedly occurred at Glen around 11 p.m. on June 14, 2020, while James was walking home. The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) started at the Serious Offences Court before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne last week, and the Court heard from several witnesses, including James and the investigator- Corporal Henry Hoyte. John was unrepresented.

than 24 hours without charging them. Alexander was charged with escaping lawful custody at the Questelles Police Station on September 11, 2018. But the defendant may have simply walked out of the Police Station after being held beyond the 24-hours without being charged, and the escaping lawful custody charge subsequently brought against him was improper. Alexander had pleaded not guilty, and the matter went to trial. The trial concluded at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Friday, February 19, but the Senior Magistrate reserved his decision until Monday, February 22. Attorney Jomo Thomas represented Alexander. The Prosecution’s evidence revealed that on the date in question

Alexander, who was being held at the Questelles Police Station for questioning in connection with a report, asked to use the washroom and was accompanied there by the police officer. The officer stood at the door of the washroom while Alexander used the facility. After the passage of about five minutes and Alexander had not exited the washroom, the officer called out to him, but got no response. The officer entered the washroom and discovered that Alexander was gone. He was subsequently apprehended and charged with escaping lawful custody. “He must be charged within 24 hours or his

detention will be unlawful,” Burnett explained, and made reference to Section 35 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Reflecting on the evidence before him, the Magistrate concluded, “He was not charged, and the police were in breach of Section 35 of the Criminal Procedure Code.” Lawyers have repeatedly complained about clients being detained beyond the stipulated 24-hour without being charged. The failure of the police to charge or release Alexander within 24 hours of his detention, was the sole ground on which he was acquitted on the escaping lawful custody charge.

Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett ruling was as a direct result of the tardiness of the police.

Nigerian to know fate today CHIEF MAGISTRATE adjourned on several Rechanne Browne is occasions. expected to rule today (Friday) on attorney No case submission Grant Connell’s no case submission in the case of Connell made a no case Nigerian national Eunice submission on Monday Dowers, who is facing 54 following the closure of the charges of dishonesty. Prosecution’s case on Dowers is on trial on Friday, February 19. charges of stealing The lawyer argued that thousands of dollars, the Investigating Officer property of Managing Corporal Andy James failed Director of Star Garage to specify under which limb Bertille ‘Silky’ DaSilva, as of Section 4 of the well as taking a credit Electronic Funds Transfer Eunice Dowers card from him, without Act, 2014, that Dowers was charged with 54 his consent. counts of dishonesty. charged with the theft of Dowers is additionally the card. charged, with intent to defraud First The lawyer also pointed out that Caribbean International Bank, the charge of theft from DaSilva’s obtained services by representing chequing account was without merit, without DaSilva’s consent. because the cheque books that were Dowers is also charged with, before the court belonged to Star pretending to be the holder of a credit Garage, but in law, Bertille DaSilva card issued to DaSilva, did convert and Star Garage were two different criminal property which was entities. The lawyer said that the unlawfully withdrawn from DaSilva’s credit card account which Dowers prosecution failed to make out a prima facie case on this which should have a knew or suspected, directly or indirectly represented the proceeds of domino effect on the other charges criminal conduct. which are hinged. The offences were reportedly But Prosecuting Officer Crown committed between September 2018 Counsel Rose Ann Richardson and January 2019 while Dowers was maintained that Dowers has a case to answer. employed at Star Garage. Dowers initially came to these If the Chief Magistrate upholds shores as a medical student and got Connell’s submission, Dowers would married to a Vincentian. She was later walk free. However, if she overrules, the defence would decide whether or employed at Star Garage first as a not Dowers would take the stand to secretary, then as Customs Broker. The trial started at the Serious give her version of the events. Offences Court last year, and was

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 5.

Diaspora

Vincy groups launch relief efforts Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT AS ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is experiencing what has

Sherrill-Ann MasonHaywood, chairs the SVG Disaster Relief Initiative Platform (SVGDRIP) which focuses on attracting support from the Vincentian Diaspora.

been described as “unprecedented circumstances” that have “uprooted the daily lives” of nationals, several Vincentian groups in the Diaspora have sprung into action to aid the homeland. In this nexus, on Feb. 5, Consul General to the United States Howie Prince took the initiative in reviving the Brooklyn, New York-based SVG Relief, Inc., established in 2013 under the leadership of his predecessor, Selmon Walters, “to mobilize the USA Diaspora to prepare for and to respond to emergencies and disasters in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.” Elections of a new executive to spearhead relief activities in the US were held that day, with the following results: Chairperson - Verna Arthur; Vice Chair Celia Bramble; Treasurer - lawyer Narissa Morris; Secretary - Ancilla Friday; Public Relations Officer - Atiba Williams. And, on Saturday, “a group of concerned

Vincentians scattered across the Diaspora”, calling themselves SVG Disaster Relief Initiative Platform (SVG-DRIP), launched a virtual platform, and called into focus the multidimensional crisis (COVID-19, dengue fever, and an active La Soufriere) SVG currently faces. In a letter circulated over the weekend to Vincentian groups in the US, Arthur wrote, inter alia, “We are once again issuing a clarion call as our homeland is experiencing some unprecedented circumstances, which have uprooted the daily lives of our brothers and sisters….. Your support is imperative in helping them move forward.” She said that the local National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has identified a number of items that are currently needed and that her group will be concentrating on the first five: surgical masks; K95 masks; personal

Dexter Brackin wins CASH from Digicel DEXTER BRACKIN, a long-standing Digicel customer is the first winner of $1000 cash in the Digital Operator’s ‘SCRATCH & WIN’ promotion. Brackin, like all other Digicel Prepaid customers, was given the chance to win One Thousand Dollars in cash weekly when they Top Up $10 or higher and collect the names of all eight (8) Digicel Digital Apps. He was the first customer on record who collected the names of all eight (8) apps and won his share of cash from Digicel. The SCRATCH & WIN promotion commenced on January 13th, 2021, and runs until March 31st, 2021. The Promotion offers attractive and practical prizes to Digicel customers and resellers of the brand. These prizes include $1000 cash weekly, free smartphones, credit, Digicel Prime bundles, and much

Dexter Brackin (right) poses with Nsala Findlay, Customer Care Agent at Digicel. more. To provide continuous incentives to its resellers, Digicel has extended the promotion to offer them weekly prizes such as free credit and branded merchandise to support their daily trade. Shirley Balkinson, Sherrian Dorsette and Shantal Parson are this week’s authorized resellers who won prizes in the promotion.

protective equipment (PPEs); respiratory masks; and cots and mattresses (full and double). The drop-off point for items in New York is: Standard Shippers, 950 Ditmas Ave., Brooklyn. Arthur said SVG Relief, Inc. is also available for the picking up of items, and that community activist O’Brien Simmons (347446-1827) of (COSAGO), should be contacted in this regard. She informed that the target date for dispatching the first set of relief items is early March, stressing that “it is important we begin shipping items very soon.” As for SVG-DRIP, coordinator Sherrill-Ann Mason-Haywood said the goal is “to leverage available technology to bring key stakeholders throughout the Vincentian Diaspora USA, United Kingdom, Canada, US Virgin Islands and St. Maarten - to work together to

kick-start a major, joint relief initiative.” The initiative was launched on the virtual platform of VC3 television in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and on all other major social media platforms. “This approach is designed to scale up the scope of our outreach and to ensure that Vincentians across the globe, of all generations, can have an opportunity to be a part of this initiative to help our beloved SVG,” MasonHaywood said. Donations can be made via online shopping. Item can also be delivered directly to identified shippers and locations, MasonHaywood advised. When asked to distinguish SVG Relief, Inc.’s efforts from SVGDRIP’s, Arthur said her group’s purpose “is to mobilize the Vincentian Community, including

Renowned activist Verna Arthur now heads up the SVG Relief, Inc. organizations across the US, to prepare for and respond to emergency and disasters in SVG.” On the other hand, she said SVG-DRIP is “a support platform to facilitate bringing together individuals and groups across the global Vincentian Diaspora to support disaster relief efforts in SVG.”

6. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

PACE: WHAT PACE? IT WAS QUITE AN IMPRESSIVE AFFAIR, the January 19, 2017 ground-breaking ceremony for the heralded Black Sands Resort development at Peter’s Hope. Addressing the ceremony, Canadian investor and attorney Joseph Romano, Principal Developer of PACE Developments Inc., developers of the Black Sands Resort, had assured that as far as the early stage of construction was concerned, the project was self-financing. That development promised 40 four to five-room villas, and a 200-room hotel, on 36 acres of land the developers had purchased from the ULP Government for a mere EC$7m. The Resort, estimated to cost US$60m, was projected to be complete within 24 to thirty months. More than a year would pass (Jan 2017 — May 2018,) before earth works began on the project site and by January 2020 the then Minister of Tourism, Cecil Mc Kie, was saying to Parliament, “…the concrete structures of the villas, we have been advised are complete, save for the finishing and they should be fully completed and ready for operation by June 2020.” As it stands today, those villas to which the Minister referred, are some white-washed structures without roofs, doors, windows and God alone knows what else. There is no confirmed indication that work continues apace, not least because journalists have been barred from visiting the site. Question: Is the hold up on the project occasioned by a cash flow problem, this after Mr. Romano had indicated that there was enough cash to guarantee the first phase of construction? Why the hold-up, the delays when it was the intention to employ a number of local contractors so as to ‘spread the work around’? There is nothing that speaks to any semblance of completion on the site, from all reports, and it is obvious that the developers have missed their 24-30 months deadline for completion. Why is this? Cash flow??? Having failed to meet its 30-month deadline for completion, there’s no telling how long it would take to deliver on the promised villas, far less a 200-room hotel. And other than a recent denial that it was in any way involved in an untoward financial matter, there has not been a word in relation to the Resort from PACE, for some time now. If PACE personnel are here, they have made themselves unavailable to the local media and one would like to ask: Have they also simply ignored the Government Ministries and Departments with which they would have been expected to interface if not to be accountable? Why are we not hearing from those Ministries/Departments? That PACE would move quickly to deny involvement in an unbecoming financial scheme says that they still feel themselves connected to SVG. The question is though, having got 36 acres of prime real estate for a mere $7m, do they feel committed to the people of this country? We are not saying that PACE might not see this project through, but the uncertainty that prevails, the doubt, one cannot avoid questions about the ‘truthfulness’ about this project. So other than having us accept that it has no part in an alleged game of musical chairs, wouldn’t it be a good gesture if somebody from PACE, not its legal representative, could give us a clear sign that things are up and running on the Black Sands Resort Project? And by the way, if the COVID-19 crisis is interfering with progress at the site, PACE people could have applied for ‘permission’ to create their own COVID-19 bubble, as others of their ilk have done. The bottom line: Any government worth its salt would want to protect this country and its people from another David Ames.

Statements from on High: National Heroes and Championship days (First published in the THE VINCENTIAN of March in his own home. 17, 2017.) Of course, this may not be the THE USUAL CEREMONY took place in the intention, but the result of backward policies area where our first National Hero, Joseph posing as progressive. It is the very antithesis of Chatoyer reportedly fell in combat with what Chatoyer stands for, a disguised form or Alexander Leith. re-colonisation. I was elated to hear Dr. Gonsalves declare his doubts about Chatoyer’s death. Years ago, I am Championship Sports Awards in print saying that if our hero was killed in that way, surely his body would have been The PM had followed the same approach a paraded as a testimony to British soldiery. Most few evenings ago when he addressed a gathering likely he was ambushed and his body whisked at the SVGCC auditorium to reflect on the away and buried secretly by his soldiers to cover champions of several games in SVG. He their hurt, and the spot has never been found! reminded his audience of all that he personally The PM would be expected to give the feature had done for sportsmen. It was all the PM and address on such an auspicious occasion but not apparently, the cabinet or the specific Ralph used this, and other related opportunity Minister of Sport who was present and played to campaign for the next elections which might only a bad second fiddle role, if anything at all, well be just around the corner. It should be noted that the first and only hero to the PM. Gonsalves was all folksy, and feigned a close celebrated as an inheritance from the NDP acquaintance with giants of sports such as regime which had chosen but not anointed Chatoyer, leaving the honour to fall to the ULP Lennox John, Mike Findlay and Stanley “Gunny” Hinds. Incidentally, Lennox John which made a feast of the occasion. played cricket at the Boys Grammar School We had expected to be motivated by four under my captaincy to which he succeeded. I more National Heroes by now. In fact, the process has lasted longer than the time taken to was games-master of the team in which Mikey played in the Inter-School Tournament in build the international airport. Grenada in 1960, and gave the citation when a I had written to the relevant ministry suggesting three additional persons — George Mc pavilion was named after Mike at Arnos Vale, and with “Gunny”, Hinds we had all been Intosh, Joshua, and Mulzac, the last of whom broadcasters and administrators of the game. was legislated out of contention. In fact, Ralph was not cut out for sport! He The process of choosing was put before a committee which dragged its feet on the matter used sport primarily as a gateway to politics. He played an indifferent style of cricket for the confused with much party-political bickering to Lawyers X1, of which I had been skipper. He this day, 15 years later! entered the team by a confluxion of events. It seems that the first two of my The Lawyers were about to play South recommendations, Mc Intosh and Joshua, are generally accepted along with Parmenos Eustace Rivers when Parnel Campbell twisted his ankle - as the new boy on the block. But the real bone and had to bow out. Ralph was at hand in mufti. of contention is the case of Milton Cato whose We drafted him on the team dressed then in the choice has been opposed by even the staunchest enlarged cricket clothes of P.R who later struck supporters of Ralph Gonsalves who clearly now up a political love-hate relation between them. champions Milton Cato. Later Ralph became an “authority” on cricket Cato for party-politics reasons, especially in as when he masterminded Chris Gale’s return to the light of pending elections. the West Indies team. That is why only last week, I again submitted And so it generally has been with Ralph, a a column challenging the practicality of Cato’s poor purveyor both in culture — steelband nomination. man(?), cricket and football where an illustrious Ralph drew attention to the many events put cousin was heard to criticise a player for on to celebrate our kinship to the Garifuna “kicking” too much with his head. people, but many of his audience would wonder But Ralph being the supreme politician, what exactly is the status proposed for our would ride over the head of Minister Mc Kie who ancestors whom Arnhim Eustace would welcome had been a fine sportsman during his school as citizens as our long, lost forbears, unlike days, all on account of electoral politics. I could Ralph in his double-speak. not help recalling Lynch’s statement of the one In fact, Gonsalves’ use of the contrived encyclopaedia and eleven copy books- the only Garifuna villages appears not to be a real means team that Ralph truly acknowledges. of connecting with the older folk, but to PS: I really saw no need to refer to the represent exogenous artefacts to attract the stirring National Heroes address of Dr. Friday. tourists. The whole notion of alienating large tracts of The man has jumped in the ring with a passion. I agree that he is somewhat like Arnhim — land, allowing Beaches to become foreign enclaves, thus making the Vincentian a stranger “Godwin Friday” to his credit!

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 7.

Letters

Proof of income should be required JUST AN observation I feel the need to share, not that anyone asked nor will anyone listen. Sometime ago our government made an emotional and political decision to make payments to selected sectors of the economy as a result of the global pandemic (Covid-19). I am not here to criticize or commend them on this action. People in political positions make difficult decisions every day that are not always easy to understand by us simple folks. A few weeks ago SVG was on the verge of an uncontrollable spread of the Covid virus and the government made some changes to our daily operations in an effort to bring the infection rate back into controllable numbers for a small island nation. Among these changes were limiting the occupancy of passengers on public transportation. This was met with protest by the van drivers who advanced a number of unreasonable and unrelated requests to the government, in exchange for their cooperation. I am not sure what the government finally agreed to but it sounds like they offered a $500 subsidy to the drivers. This I strongly object to as a taxpayer in an era of low tax compliance. I would suggest that all subsidies to any small businesses or independent contractors, van drivers/owners included, be based on annual income reported to the Inland Revenue Department. However, I strongly support the idea of reducing gas prices as a means of assisting the van drivers. Another interesting observation, after two weeks of the imposition of stricter measures to control the spread of the virus, our positivity rate is now reported at or below 2 (all things considered a good number). Could it be that the van driver action to withdraw their services during this time actually contributed to us regaining control of the virus? Maybe they should continue to stay off the roads and we will find new ways to bring the needed services to those in need. Horatio

Randy D and U Roy I MISS Randy D. And I miss Randy D especially at this time. I just wanted to get that off my chest. But …… A great reggae icon, Ewart Beckford, known to Jamaica, the Caribbean and the world as U Roy, some called him Daddy U Roy, passed away last week Wednesday, February 17. Sadly, not a sound from any of those fast-paced FM stations about his death. U Roy, for those of you who have no idea who he was, was the man who popularised the toasting style in Jamaican reggae that added vocals to a recorded track or live music. Toasting gave rise to what we rave about today as Dancehall, led by the likes of Beenie Man. I dare say, the Toasting era was still a very conscious period as the lyrics implied, e.g. U Roy’s ‘Rule the Nation’. The truth is, long before Beanie Man there was U Roy, and just like how our radio people should learn and appreciate how much Becket contributed so as to make it easier for artistes like Skinny Fabulous, if they want to be worth their salt, our radio people must do their research and find out who is who in the history and development of Caribbean Music. Not a word about U Roy. Not a piece of his music played in his honour. Now, Mr. Editor, you understand why I say I miss Randy D? May he rest in peace. Charles, Edinboro MORE LETTERS ON PAGE 10

Cannabis: All or nothing MR EDITOR, It is interesting to note that as more and more countries move to decriminalize the use of cannabis for medicinal as well as recreational purposes, indications from reputable magazines that tract developments in commodity sales and demand, are that there is a global boom in the number of producers/cultivators of cannabis, supply has increased and prices have fallen. This is something that all our cannabis producers/cultivators must be aware of — the movement of price and demand — and moreso, that any fall in price could well be a carefully orchestrated result on the part of those companies, who will create a ‘false’ over supply of the commodity,

resulting in a fall in price, so they could maxmise their investment at the valueadded end of the industry, at the expense of the (commodity) supplier. More and more local politicians, a la our own Minister of Agriculture and Chairman of the Medicinal Cannabis Authority, are vehemently promoting medical marijuana as the new panacea for our struggling, developing country - St. Vincent and the Grenadines. (Both Minister and Chairman, I am told, are newcomers to the whole ‘ganja business’.) We have an impacting history of cannabis production; unfortunately, we have no history as it relates to research generally, nor research in medical

marijuana in particular. This is where those very politicians will guide us wittingly into the hands of the foreigners who bring that expertise to the table. The question is: Will cannabis take the place of bananas, that primary crop/product that while it earned farmers a weekly income and was responsible for a most significant period of development in SVG, was put to even greater added value by those who bought/marketed it on the international market? The medical marijuana industry has the same potential of keeping our farmers in bondage as primary produces of a crop that earns the distant investor so much more. Are we prepared to suffer that same fate? If

we are not then we would move to ensure that we are party to, in a meaningful manner, the value added step of turning that crop into maximum returns. Research is not beyond us and there is enough money floating among the local capitalists and the banks who support them, to ensure that Vincentians share in the full potential of the cannabis produced right here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. James Maddison

Supporting Vaccination VACCINES cause us to produce antibodies which fight against infectious agents and prevent us from becoming sick. Over the years we have learned to trust vaccines and routinely take them before entering elementary schools. As a child, I was vaccinated for several common childhood diseases such as Whooping Cough, Diphtheria, Tuberculosis, Polio and Small Pox. These vaccines were very successful in preventing diseases, but among those who were not vaccinated on time, the effect of, for example, Polio can be seen up to this day in adults with deformed limbs. The same effect — combating disease - is expected of this COVID19 vaccine. Modern Technology has enabled us to expedite the production of the COVID-19 vaccine to meet the urgent needs occasioned by this pandemic. We should place confidence in our medical personnel as they chart our way back to some semblance of normalcy. We need to give them the

freedom to make decisions based on Science. This is a time when those of us in other professions must recognize their expertise and allow ourselves to be stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. We observe keenly the transformation of the COVID-19 experts in the USA when the Administration changed. Our medical experts know what they are about and none should muzzle them. They are well able to speak for themselves and we must allow them to answer our tough questions. The pandemic is not a political game. Our lives

are at stake and we need to stay in our places and be of assistance to our COVID-19 Team. Because of our small population, sufficient persons could be vaccinated to allow us to reach herd immunity and resume our normal lives in the short term. Frontline workers need to take the lead in being vaccinated. These include doctors, nurses and all health care workers, police and teachers. Then come workers in the food industry, senior citizens, politicians, and all and sundry. Anthony Stewart, PhD

* Anyway we could get an idea of the number of exemptions from quarantine that have been granted to date? * Has the Minister of Finance devised a plan of action that will rein in those tax defaulters in the Grenadines? * Does the state owe anybody, any wellknown family, for land where, just before the last general elections, there was a ‘wet opening’ of a playing field in Rose Hall? * Did the Fire Department ever respond to three calls that there was a fire in that vacant lot bordering the Playground for the School for Children with Special Needs and in proximity to the Mulraine’s residence on Wilson Hill? * Is there a law that says vehicles must give way to cart men on the streets of Kingstown?

8. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Maintenance of International Peace and Security: Climate and Security

Government has failed to create policies to capture and nurture our young people

Address by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves to the United Nations Security Council

(Excerpts of Senator Shevern John’s Budget Presentation)

Introduction Mr. President, Excellencies, Distinguished Colleagues, SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES commends the United Kingdom for this opportunity to address climate-related security risks. We applaud your continued dedication and leadership in this matter, particularly ahead of COP26. I also thank the briefers for their insightful remarks on this vital subject. As the primary organ for maintaining international peace and security, the Security Council has a responsibility to address the consequences of climate change in line with its mandate. Failure to tackle the debilitating impacts through the lens of peace and security means, in part, an abdication of our duty. As such, it is time for this Council to consider seriously a draft resolution on the matter and to map out a coherent approach, aiming for a working consensus. We reaffirm that the UNFCCC is the primary body dealing with climate change; and the Paris Agreement is a major component of our rules-based international system. At the same time, we recognise that the UN Security Council has a role to play without encroaching on the work of the inclusive decision-making body of the UNFCCC. Similarly, we must engage with the Peacebuilding Commission and the General Assembly to address, effectively, climate and security risks across the joinder of issues touching and concerning humanitarian support, sustainable development, health pandemics, peace and security. St. Vincent and the Grenadines reiterates that the first step to prevent or contain climate-security risks is for the major, and historical, emitters to fulfil, and indeed exceed, the commitments made in the Paris Agreement. Global action must be accelerated to keep temperatures below 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels, in line with our common but differentiated responsibilities. Indeed, we have, gathered around this virtual table, those who can have the most impact in preventing climate-fueled conflict by rationally and comprehensively reducing emissions and by upholding financial commitments towards adaptation measures, separate and apart from already-agreed Official Development Aid obligations. Climate change is an existential challenge to us all but it continues to affect, disproportionately, the most vulnerable among us, including small islands and conflict-affected countries. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), St. Vincent and the Grenadines knows all too well the impact of increasingly intense climatic shocks due to unique vulnerabilities and structural fragilities. In our Caribbean region, it has become distressingly commonplace for an entire year’s GDP to be washed away

by a hurricane overnight, even as we are hindered by a lack of a sufficient access, on favourable terms, to the global financial architecture. Our fellow-islanders in low-lying states are faced with a clear and present existential threat which poses significant concerns for sovereignty and, by extension, international peace. We stand in solidarity with conflictaffected countries where climate change exacerbates food insecurity and humanitarian crises, stokes conflicts over resources, fans the flames of political turmoil, and creates significant socio-economic challenges. Our sister island, Haiti, is among the most susceptible to the impacts of increasingly intense and frequent climatic hazards. These natural disasters hit Haiti hard, partly due to the felling of its forests, the misuse and abuse of woodland resources, and the requirement to pay externally imposed debts. Another awful example is the Sahel: We will not see an end to the complex cycles of conflict without striking at the heart of the battle for dwindling resources amidst climate change and drought. It is evident that among the major contemporary drivers of global insecurity is the bundle of issues arising from the impacts of climate change. No country escapes the consequences attendant thereto. There are solutions to these manmade crises. In order to address effectively these complex situations, we must integrate climate perspectives into the Council’s work. To this end, we support: Enhanced reporting by the Secretary General on the relevant issues, decision-making on the basis of climate-risk data; the appointment of a Special Envoy on Climate and Security; further training of UN personnel to deal with the security implications of climate change; and the incorporation of climate advisers in peacekeeping missions. In crafting its mandates, the Security Council should also pay close attention to what the respective Governments of conflict-affected states outline as their principal climate-security challenges and approaches, including in their Nationally Determined Contributions and National Adaptation Plans. Further, the recent establishment of an Informal Expert Group on Climate and Security comprised of Security Council members is a promising development of which Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is proud to be a part. It is time for the Security Council to rise to the extant challenges associated with climate-related security risks in this 76th year of the United Nations. Climate change has rendered obsolete the traditional approaches to managing conflicts. Today, the UN Charter, and the future of all humanity, demand more of us. Thank you!

THIS BUDGET DEBATE, as alluded to by the Honourable Minister of Finance, is taking place in unprecedented circumstances. Circumstances that are defined by: the Coronavirus pandemic and its effect on the world and of course our nation; the outbreak of dengue fever in our nation, quite possibly the worst in decades; and the effusive eruption of the La Soufriere and some experts are forecasting this could well lead to an explosive one. This appears to be, as is said, a perfect storm. A storm that for which we are no match, and might find ourselves drowning in an economic recession. As damning as this image might seem, I am afraid; I am unable to present our current conditions in any other way. There is no doubt in my mind that my fellow Vincentians and their families are being harshly affected by the ongoing and somewhat sporadic economic disruptions caused by this pandemic. We have mourned loved ones lost because to this pandemic, as well as dengue fever. We lost young people and, being a mother, I can’t help but empathize with the parents of these beloved souls. Parents should never have to bear the pain of burying their children. As I mentioned before, we are also experiencing an effusive eruption of the La Soufriere and so many spend their days mulling over the notion that an explosive eruption is imminent. The mental strain of all these factors combined weighs heavily on adults as well as children. In a society such as ours, where issues of mental health are often placed on the proverbial back burner, I trust that the strain does not become unbearable. I must add that this “aspirational” budget seems to have been prepared, and seasoned with a dash of cruelty. As I combed through the document, I got the sense that it would do very little in addressing the real issues that are affecting our nation and that will affect our nation, unless the very hand of God delivers us. As clichéd, the greatest asset of any nation is its human resources. It therefore baffles me that while the government would often say “the youths are the future”, they continuously fail to create policies to capture and nurture the best of our young people. In fact, in budget 2021, there is an alarming decrease in what is allotted for youth development. One would think that a government that boasts about having a youthful team, would make an effort to ensure that all young people have access to the tools needed for success. Unfortunately, this seems not to be the case. Please allow me to jolt your memory a bit. It was on the 13th August 2020, right here in this Honourable House that my colleague, the former Minister of Youth Affairs stated, and I am sure the records will prove me right, that the only national document to address youth development was developed by the New Democratic Party in 1996 — a twenty-five year old document.

The government speaks loftily and loudly, but their actions do not match their pronouncements. Playing fields and hardcourts are allowed to deteriorate across the country and almost every election period they are given a tuft of grass, some fresh paint, and a few small repairs, then they are left to fall to ruin again. The incomplete project in Diamond was opened in grand style, pre-elections, and the Searchlight Newspaper reported that it is being used by residents as a football field and a public bath. I cannot help but wonder whether or not a community-needs assessment was done in that area. I am puzzled. What would lead residents to convert an athletic track into a football field? What I do know, is that our children, some of them my former students, are at this time being urged to stay indoors. While the government tried and failed to deliver a 20-yearold promise of an athletic stadium, they ignored the real needs of our young people in this very crucial and unpredictable space and time. Without encroaching too much on the presentation of my esteemed colleague and senior, the Honourable Terrance Ollivierre, I wish to state or rather highlight a few things. Like my colleague, I too am an educator and so it would be remiss of me to not touch on matters that concern my past students and fellow constituents. More than half of our primary school students have no device on which they could access their online classrooms. In North Windward, there are six primary schools, so they too are affected. Beyond this, our young people are scared, some are literally scared for their lives. No doubt our youth are also trying to cope with all what is happening around them. Some have lost classmates and siblings because of dengue, some have lost relatives because of COVID-19, and others like my constituents see the La Soufriere daily and are reminded of what could be. This would be a good time for the government to create hotlines where young people, especially, could reach someone to talk. The COVID-19 hotline does not offer such a service and sadly we have no other. No price could be placed on the mental health of our young people. Money has been allocated to continue the needed PAVE programme but I see no programme to focus on the mental well-being of our youth. I listened to the address of the Minister of Finance and was quite bothered by it. He spoke about my fellow constituents, a people I offered myself to serve, hoping to provide them “a breath of fresh air”. I proudly serve now in another capacity and will forever highlight their plight as the strong Garifuna woman. Especially since I know that there are many who look to me for representation. I will be unyielding in my drive to serve all the people of North Windward.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 9.

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Preparation, Hard Work, and Learning from failure

“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” - Colin Powell (born 1937) – American politician, diplomat, and retired fourstar general who served as the 65th United States Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005. TEENAGERS AND YOUNG ADULTS are particularly interested in learning the secrets to success. This is especially so as they focus on their professional development or the selection of a career path. Many explore self-help books and/or biographies of accomplished individuals. There is wisdom in such an approach. We can learn from the successes and failures of others. We can gain insights into best practices for managing time, developing goals, working hard to accomplish these, and pursuing them relentlessly – even after detours, setbacks, and failures. These thoughts are captured in the Colin Powell quotation that was used to introduce this essay. Preparation, hard work, and learning from failure are considered essential as we pursue our noble dreams. The more prepared we are when faced with a task the more confident we are likely to be. This holds true for the athlete who anticipates stiff competition. It is equally accurate in relation to the student who is preparing for an examination, the young adult starting a new business, an individual approaching a job interview, or those engaged in pursuing a career path. Adequate preparation is essential for the individual who seeks to be the best that he/she can be. It may mean sacrificing pleasures in order to dedicate the time needed to organize for the event. It may demand prioritizing life’s tasks as efforts are made to carve out the time and exert the effort needed to be adequately prepared. Hard work must also be considered a critical element in the pursuit of success. Most valuable achievements demand an unwavering commitment to the task. It takes discipline to commit to the hard work that is often the forerunner to success. We cannot rely on “luck and chance” to get us to our destination. In addition, there is a normal/natural tendency to place a much higher value on our achievements when they have been accomplished through struggle and/or sacrifice. We earn the “bragging rights” in relation to our accomplishments when we have exerted the effort and energy to achieve these. That priceless sense of accomplishment can be sustained and appreciated whenever we reflect on the discipline and hard work that was required. Vidal Sassoon (1928-2012), the British hairstylist, business tycoon, and philanthropist reminds us that, “The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary”. Hard work is required if we are to achieve our noble dream. It comes through a dedication to the cause and a commitment to doing whatever is honest and noble in achieving that goal. Those individuals who fold their arms (refusing to try) and hope for success will forever find it to be an elusive dream … and the reality of this a horrifying nightmare. Hard work is often a priceless forerunner to success. Planning and working hard are two priceless components in our pursuit of our noble ambitions. However, ever with the best thought-out plans and a

strong commitment to hard work, there will be times when external forces derail our efforts. The Covid-19 pandemic is a classic example of such an external force. Markets for products and services that looked promising may now have dried up and/or disappeared. The entrepreneurial project that was worked on and carefully thought out in relation to a particular product or service many have failed. However, failure is not final! It may be necessary to regroup and reboot the project. As with any career or business venture, we must anticipate and be prepared for the ups and downs. We must psyche ourselves out for the moments of selfdoubt and burnout that so very often emerge when faced with setbacks and various detours. We can learn from those who experienced various types and degrees of setbacks and failures but persisted to manage and lead successful enterprises; rebounding from failure. Lawrence “Larry” Ellison (born 1944) is an American business tycoon, investor, and philanthropist. He is the co-founder and executive chairman and chief technology officer of Oracle Corporation. He is listed among the wealthiest business people in the world. However, he experienced several noticeable failures in his early adult life. He dropped out of two different universities and had difficulty maintaining steady employment until he co-founded Software Development Laboratories (later renamed Oracle Systems Corporation). The business slumped on one occasion and was very close to bankruptcy. He mortgaged his home in an effort to persuade his commercial bank to provide the cash needed to sustain his business. With astute planning, hard work, and a committed staff, the company’s fortunes improved and is now worth billions. The success story of Vera Wang (born 1949), the American fashion designer based in New York, also fits neatly into our discourse. She is one of the world’s most accomplished fashion designers. Her early ambition was to become a world-famous figure skater. However, her failure to qualify for the U.S.A.’s Olympic Team resulted in her redirecting her energies to the world of fashion. Shortly after graduating from college she worked as an editor at Vogue magazine. She remained at Vogue for 17 years before leaving to join Ralph Lauren in 1987. Two years later, at age 40, she resigned to become an independent bridal wear designer and is now sought after to design garments for the rich and famous the world over. These two examples remind us that, even with the best thought-out plans, things will not always turn out the way that we expect. However, we must have the resolve to face life’s varied challenges, detours, and setbacks with confidence. This is also the result of good planning (i.e. resorting to a Plan B). We prepare for the unexpected. We commit to working hard. And we determine that we can learn from the failures that may emerge. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

Gonsalves turns 27 PM GONSALVES is celebrating 27 years as an elected parliamentarian in SVG. He has been Prime Minister for 20 of those years. And what (a) 27 years it has been! Gonsalves, renowned firebrand Marxist university professor, has morphed into a senior elder politician but is notoriously polarizing. The intensity with which he is hated and loved is frequently relived in villages across this land. Last November, he won a 5th consecutive parliamentary term, thus elevating himself to the top of the regional political heap as a prominent political party leader. His five consecutive electoral victories represent a record in the Commonwealth Caribbean. As Gonsalves’ aims for his 75th birthday, we are tempted to describe him as a statesman, but Gonsalves would have none of it. He said a statesman is a dead politician. And he may have a point, if only as it relates to him. Always the political brawler, willing to take the fight to the gutters, he revels in division and controversy. He elevates his base over the country, often to save his skin rather than defend the nation’s interest. The 2008 political rally to defend against rape allegations, the raunchy taped conversation with a young woman in 2015 and the ‘protective cloak’ he wrapped around Camillo’s political troubles during the Yugge Farrell affair in 2018, are best examples of his use or misuse of his leadership positions. Gonsalves holds a death grip on ULP election campaigns. After catapulting himself to the prime ministerial desk in 2001, with the ‘rule my destiny’ campaign, all future elections have been all Gonsalves, all the time. In 2005 the theme was ‘Keep the comrade there.’ In 2010, supporters were asked to ‘Own the campaign, own the government’ with Gonsalves at the helm. In 2015, the theme shifted slightly to ‘Ask Ralph,’ while 2020’s theme was ‘Lift SVG Higher’ with the 5 Star general as World Boss. Recently, a business aptly labelled him an election genius. The string of victories has worked well for Gonsalves and those most wellpositioned to maximise the benefits. Gonsalves pledged to serve only two terms. He may have been hedging his bets. What is certain is that the party leadership would have none of it. The clear mantra is ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ Even though the party squeaked home last November with a majority of seats but lost the popular vote, some supporters have so hitched their livelihood to Gonsalves’ occupancy of the state machinery, which they wish out loud that he died in office, but not anytime soon. History may yet be kind to Gonsalves and not just for his electoral success. He is possessed with a superior intellect. Even the American Central Intelligence Agency, accessing the regional political landscape, listed him ‘as most enlightened of the leaders.’ His gift of gab, though fading, is unparalleled in Vincentian political history. Some say his folksiness is contrived, but we doubt. His ability to connect with supporters and disarm adversaries appear to be a natural gift. Gonsalves boasts of making governance easy. But as Karl Marx said, ‘Philosophers, of all stripes, have interpreted the world in various ways; the problem, however, is to change it.’ As a parliamentarian, Gonsalves drives a hard bargain. He only wants to

win, and he is prepared to win at any cost, even if it means subverting everything he held dear while he was in opposition. In opposition, Gonsalves railed against the NDP for its misuse of state resources during election campaigns. He was particularly incensed in 1998 when his party won 55 percent of the popular votes but had to settle for the opposition benches in an 8/7 parliament. He and Vincent Beache, the party leader at the time, vowed to make the country ungovernable. In power, his misuse of the state (resources) is legendary. When Justice Henry made a ruling following the 2015 elections petition, Gonsalves bellowed that no court could determine the outcome of the elections. His untruthful claim was a rallying call to arms for supporters. Who will forget the 2010 US elections when Supreme Court delivered the presidency to George Bush Jr? The singular act that may dull Gonsalves many achievements as a politician is his performance during the 2018 debate on the opposition’s motion of no confidence. First, he tried to use his 8/7 parliamentary majority to block the debate by calling a vote on whether even to table the motion in the assembly. When that tactic failed, he proposed a motion that essentially turned the motion of no confidence into a motion of confidence, assaulting the constitution in the process. But, it was the Speaker’s fault. Rather than stick to his democratic instincts and disallow such a gambit, the speaker lost his resolve on a misinterpretation of the rule on amendments, and allowed Gonsalves to have his way. But there is more. His strong authoritarian streak, reflected in his attempt to economically assassinate Anesia Baptiste, Leon ‘Bigger Bigs’ Samuels, as well as teachers Otto Sam, Elvis Daniel, Kenroy Johnson and Addison ‘Bash’ Thomas are dark stains on his resume. But Gonsalves is not all negative. His efforts as a policy wonk remain unmatched. He is the intellectual and political architect of every strategy and tactic, every programme and policy articulated by the ULP. Gonsalves will be long remembered for his herculean effort to ensure that SVG constructed an international airport, and won a seat on the United Nation’s Security Council. So will be his commitment to bring university education to the poor. While his hyper-partisanship deepened the political chasm in Vincentian society and his policy implementation is suspect at best, his policy formulation deserves credit. The Lives to live, Home Health for the Elderly, Disadvantaged Student Loans, 100 percent Mortgage for Public Employees are policies that have been celebrated. If Gonsalves is not actively considering his political exit, biology is determined to plot his departure. He is obese and rapidly slowing down. Having served himself and his family well over those 27 years, we can only hope that he grooms a replacement in the North Central Windward who is not of his bloodline. He owes Vincent Beache and Vincentians that much.

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

10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

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Three political parties should work together for SVGÊs prosperity FINANCE GURU Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, who has a BSc (Hons) in Accounts and Finance and Economics from Oxford Brookes University, England, makes a very strong call for the three political parties – ULP, NDP and SVG Green party to work together to create financial prosperity for all who live in SVG. A multi-party government would be significantly more effective than a single party government. Under a multi-party government there are effective checks and balances that reduce wastage and corruption, and provide more possibilities to create prosperity. This would improve the overall standard of living in SVG. Switzerland operates a multi-party government. Switzerland has a rich party landscape and the five parties represented in the Federal Council are

generally called the government parties. Many major decisions are taken by referendum to prevent corruption. The dynamics of this highly successful style of government lead to better planning and ensure vast sums of money are not thrown down the drain on unsuitable and useless projects. The geothermal project should never have been approved for operation in SVG and is an example of how a multi-party government and a referendum could have stopped millions of dollars being wasted on a useless project. SVG has had independence since 1979 and has operated under a one party government. This has led to people being forced to live in gross poverty and deep destitution. Is strategic development not important to

the economics of Third World Countries? A group of young people told the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, that unemployment is so high in SVG, life for many thousands of people is a struggle for survival — living from day to day and begging for money for their next meal. For them, there is no hope of ever living a life of prosperity. They often wonder if there is a government of the people and for the people. They see no future for the young generation in SVG. Many poor parents cannot afford school fees, school uniforms, school books and other school equipment for their children. Preschool and primary schools are crucial periods in the

Minding our own business Well I never hear worse. Vincies all over the land carrying on about the recent kidnapping and murder of a young woman in Trinidad, like it happen right here. Liming at a certain shop last week, I overheard a man say how he hear the two men who they had in detention as persons of interest in the crime, had died in police custody, and if it was that the police “deal with them,” then that is good. He continued to say aloud how the men deserve what they got and worse. I tell you, you swear

the thing happen right here. Is funny how at the same shop I never hear any noise about the uncle who beat up his niece; the man who kill his elderly grandfather; the man who wound his uncle some time ago and not a thing about the man who say his woman ‘does beat me up’. The thing is, we have to learn to take the speck out of our own eyes before we go putting mouth on other people. We have a whole set of things here to clean up and we should be looking to do something about

development of children. Children whose parents cannot afford to send them to preschool or primary school are being left behind in education. SVG’s GDP per capita is only US$11,500. Youth unemployment is over 30%. SVG’s overall unemployment rate is over 40%. SVG had a murder rate of 37 per 100,000 population in 2016, the 4th highest in the world. SVG’s number of rape incidents per 100,000 citizens reached as high as 25.5, ranked 17th worst in the world. SVG needs to try something different in order for our country and our people to succeed and get a different outcome. No one wants a continuation of high rates of poverty, crime and unemployment. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA very strongly contends that very poor quality education among the top leadership of SVG, is the core obstacle preventing SVG from moving forward into prosperity.

Homelessness

EVEN as we journey through this period of global crisis, it is important to highlight Black History Month (Feb. 1 — March 1). It is a time, as a Christian nation, barring the non-Christians and so-called Christians (anti-Christ) leaders among us, for us to show our people (from biblical history) the origin of the black race. According to Genesis section 5, subsection 32, Noah, who lived this side after the flood crisis, had three sons whose names were Shem, Ham and Japheth. According to our bible history, Ham was the black son for Noah and the only one after whom a country was named. This is spoken of as the land of Ham in Psalm 105: 23, 27 also 106:22 etc. The name Ethiopia is a Greek and Roman word means dark and warm or Cush in Hebrew. The Ethiopian or Cushite was black, and Jeremiah declared they could not change their colour (Jeremiah 21:1). The Queen of Sheba who journeyed to visit King Solomon was a black woman (1 Kings 10: 1-3, 2 Chronicles 9: 1-12). The Finance Minister under Queen Candace of Ethiopia was black (Acts 8:26-29). We can go on and on to show more of our involvement in the early ages in the development of our people and their role in the advancement of our civilization. We shall rise again. We are the resurrection. Long live the unity of our people and other people who are not of our race and who are not dividing and ruling. Let us all say together to all white and black oppressors, take your financial knees off our necks. We demand our freedom now.

HOMELESSNESS is a phenomenon common to almost every country on earth. While many scorn and look down on those who are homeless, many of these persons are intelligent and come from good, respectable families. Many of these persons are victims of circumstances. Amongst the many causes of homelessness is mental illness. In a follow up article I shall highlight the plight of one such individual. In some cases, they are the cause of their own dilemma due to choices they make. Some have not really received good guidance at home and in most cases they come from homes where a father figure is absent. But, in spite of the negatives that these individuals would have encountered that landed them on the streets, there is hope. What is recommended is to reach out to some of these persons, listen to their plight and be supportive of them. I would strongly recommend that efforts be made by the Social Welfare Department to assign social workers who would reach out to them, and offer counselling and help where necessary. We know that these individuals can be nuisances and sometimes irritating. Of course some of them are addicted to drugs and so their primary goal when they ask for money is to spend it on drugs. Here is where the social worker and programmes organized by the Social Welfare Department can play a meaningful role in aiding these persons, and take them off the streets. Let us not forget as well, that we can as individuals reach out to them. It sure would be nice if one person commits to aiding one homeless person. I am sure we still have within us the caring heart and Good Samaritan attitude. Some of the homeless do have relatives who can take care of them but it seems, because of one thing or the other, including mental issues, those persons find it hard to reach out to their relatives who live on the streets. All in all, reaching out to them and loving them can make a difference in their lives and who knows, make them into productive citizens. My hope is that we take a more caring approach to homeless persons.

Christian Democrat

Kennard King

that, not getting carried something about it. Let away with another man’s us stop being hypocrites. problems. Time for us to admit Selwyn our wrongdoing and do

Black and white

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 11.

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The world needs lots of art

by CAMILLE SAUNDERS MUSSER

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO SAY HOW powerful and impactful the arts are. Much has been written on the benefits derived from the arts; how essential they are. The arts can affect health, education, the economy, improve communities and our very lives. Yet, we tend to ignore the arts … to our peril! Here at the Youlou Art Centre (YAC), we are committed to build a strong, vibrant and creative arts community. In these stressed days of COVID-19, the Centre is offering an escape — a little “something” to recharge the batteries and keep the spirit cheerful and strong. The “3 + 3 Show”, currently on display at the Youlou Art Centre, offers that little “something” to feed the soul. The show opened in the middle of December 2020 in the midst of the Christmas rush and will continue until April/2021. It features, for public viewing, artwork from three painters and three photographers. The six artists in the show are: Amanda Frederick, Marc Erdrich, Peter Providence, Glendon Holder, Kingsley Roberts and

Cecile Comblen. Two artists, Cecile Comblen and Kingsley Roberts, were interviewed for this article.

Kingsley Roberts This prize winning photographer and owner of Photographic Elegance, has been practising his craft for over 30 years. Kingsley Roberts is known for photographing iconic sights and everyday life in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He displays five pieces of his photographic work in this show. Kingsley pays attention to the light, and texture in his photographs. He is

known to rise early to take photos and traverses the state at specific times to capture iconic views/scenes, buildings and events. He takes several photos of the same view throughout the year, so that he can ensure he gets the right texture, and to note changes in the view. In this way, Kingsley keeps an historical record of the day to day life activities, preserving them for generations to come. These days he works with stock photographs. These are photographs he has taken in advance. Kingsley revisits the photographs, digitally makes changes to the image, e.g. add colour and texturize the

BSc Nursing Application Deadline THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES COMMUNITY (SVGCC) is reminding Vincentians that February 28th, 2021 is the application deadline for admissions into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme for the academic year 2021/2022. Prospective students must apply via the UWI’s Mona Campus’ website, then submit all supporting documents to

Right: Casey DeFreitas – Year 3 BSc Nursing student, DNE Debate Chapter President and SVGCC Student Representative 2020/2021.

Sis. Roxanne Stowethe SVGCC’s Division Maloney via of Nursing Education at roxanne.stowemaloney@svgcc.vc Largo Heights. The BSc Nursing is a To apply, visit https://sas.mona.uwi.edu/ full-time 4-year undergraduate banndata1srv_mona/uwm_adm.p_in programme by the University of the West dex. For more information, Indies’ Mona Campus, in collaboration with the St. please contact the Vincent & the SVGCC’s Division of Grenadines Community Nursing Education’s College. (DNE) Deputy Dean -

photos, in order to arrive at a product with which he is happy. While being interviewed he reminisced about the good old days of using the dark room in which photographs ‘came to life’. He said he enjoyed that process and the suspense of waiting to see how the photo would turn out. He misses it! Photographs done using the dark room “stand up longer,” Kingsley said. He admitted digital photography is faster, but then one has to figure out how to print the image.

Cecile Comblen Cecile Comblen, a Canadian by birth, has chosen St. Vincent and the Grenadines as her second home. She has been living on and off here for 20 years. She admits the light

in SVG is very important to her., i.e. to her work. The colours, she says, “are strong and brighter,” and she is captivated by the life and scenery around her. Cecile has 5 paintings in the “3 + 3 Show” all produced here in SVG. In her acrylic paintings she tells a story within a Caribbean landscape. There is one water colour which describes the serenity of island life. Cecile is a trained artist. She studied Education in Canada and furthered her studies by getting a degree in Fine Arts at the University of Ottawa, giving her a solid background in the arts. She has exhibited her work throughout Canada and in Belgium, the UK, Mexico, Jamaica, and

Cecile Comblen other Caribbean islands. The Youlou Art Centre is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 to 5 pm. It is located at Indian Bay. To get there, use the Villa Lodge entrance, head down the hill towards the sea, then taking a sharp left. The number at the Youlou Art Centre is 457-4493.

12. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

La Soufriere Feature

„It is an eruption!‰

Dr. Thomas Christopher, UWI SRC (MVO) volcanologist want Vincentians to understand that as gentle (effusive) as it might be at present, La Soufriere is erupting. AS LONG AS THE VOLCANO is pushing magma to the surface, it is an eruption. That simply scientific truism is what Dr. Thomas Christopher, head of The UWI Seismic Research Centre (UWI SRC) team that is currently monitoring activity at La Soufriere (volcano), would like the Vincentian population to bear in mind. Dr. Christopher, in stating the fact, was responding to what he said was a

prevalent misconception among some residents that La Soufriere is not erupting. He explained that in some cases eruptions can be very gentle as is the case with La Soufriere’s, but cautioned that “lava is coming out very slowly, building a dome and releasing gas.” With that in mind, Dr. Christopher, who is based at the Monserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) joined The UWI SRC team as a replacement for Professor Richard Robertson who headed the first monitoring team, advised that the effusive eruption must continue to be monitored. In his latest interview with UWI Seismic Research Centre for its ‘La Soufriere Today’ update, Dr. Christopher said that he came to St. Vincent ready to do what he had done in Montserrat, but La Soufriere stunned him into accepting that he couldn’t simply replicate his work. “The La Soufriere’s system is quite different as well as its signals, and I had to adjust what I did in Montserrat to fit St Vincent’s eruption,” he told the ‘La Soufriere Today’ programme.

The new dome continues to push magna to the surface, emit gases and grow. And based on his studies and observations while here, he stressed, “We need to keep an eye on it (La Soufriere) because we are not quite sure what it is going to do, and we need to keep monitoring it and react accordingly based on what we’ve seen.” He noted that the 1979 eruption in St Vincent and the Grenadines started explosive and went effusive, so the fact that the eruption has gone effusive

initially has not ruled out that it could go explosive. “We know it can go very explosive or just remain effusive but we need to keep monitoring. However, the volcano poses no threat at the moment to the public,” said Dr. Christopher, whose assignment in St. Vincent comes to an end this week. He will continue to be involved with the ongoing effusive eruption at La Soufriere from his base in Montserrat.

NEMO is prepared by GLORIAH…

NEMO, like the The UWI SRC monitoring team, is keeping a focused eye on activities at La Soufriere.

THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION (NEMO) is keeping a keen eye on the ongoing eruption of La Soufriere volcano, and continues to prepare in the event that the eruption becomes explosive. Speaking on NBC’s Face to Face programme on 19th February, Director of NEMO, Ms. Michelle Forbes, reimpressed the uncertainty of the current situation. “We hope we do not have an explosive eruption but we don’t know its nature, and at this moment we’re happy that we’re in this effusive phase, but we don’t know what is going to happen,” Forbes stressed. As for preparations for a possible explosive eruption, Forbes confirmed NEMO’s collaborations with the Ministries of Health and Education. She stated, “We continue to work with the Ministry of Health and this has been part of our shelter management programme for years. In terms of …monitoring, the community district nurses visit the shelters from time to time.” As for the Ministry of Education, she disclosed that work continues on a daily

basis, ensuring readiness of the shelters, many of which are schools. On the community level, it was revealed that pre-evacuation plans have already seen communities organized according to the areas to which their residents will be evacuated, so that “they are not scattered all over the place.” Towards this end, Forbes cited for example, “Fancy will go the Calliaqua/Ratho Mill area; Sandy Bay to the interior of Greiggs, Mespo and Richland Park. We try to keep communities together so, of course, if there is any community spread, [of COVID19], they are located within a general location and not scattered in different communities.” The NEMO Director also highlighted the ongoing sensitization programme especially for residents in critical hazard areas. This programme includes: dispensing information about the current state of the volcano; outlining what is happening based on the scientific information that the organization has; explaining what to expect if there is an explosive eruption, and the actions they should take even before that eventuality arises; pointing residents to their

Michelle Forbes, Director of NEMO, assured that her Agency is ongoing in its approach to preparing for an explosive eruption of La Soufriere or any other action of the volcano. community’s assembly points. As for precautionary measures against COVID-19 spread in shelters, Forbes assured: “We have our protocols in terms of the COVID. If you’re entering an emergency shelter, you must wear the mask. Within the shelter, we already have the distancing sorted out in terms of how families will be kept together. Each shelter has also identified a ‘holding’ area, a separate room, that if anybody comes and indicate that they have flu-like symptoms, they could be isolated.” NEMO continues its programme of preparedness throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines but with special concentration on the areas directly under the volcano and those within distances that make them susceptible to hazards.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 13.

News

SMSS fulfills wider obligation Right: Care packages awaiting delivery.

the support that the school has been “IT REALLY IS extending to families HEARTENING when you are before, had to be able to provide those increased and widened. members of our school The student community with basic population represents a needs. Once you are varied socio-economic shaping minds and helping landscape and the with the development of institution has always people, you have an been aware of this and obligation to respond in the plight of some of the this way!” families, Mr. Gibson These were the said. sentiments expressed by “The school Mr. Yohance Gibson, administration has an Principal of the St. obligation to respond to Martin’s Secondary this need,” Gibson School (SMSS), as he asserted, “and it has spoke to THE been doing so throughout VINCENTIAN about the the years by providing school’s ongoing students with lunches programme of providing and other necessary care packages to needy requirements throughout families, from among the the course of the school school population. day.” And Mr. Gibson was Students (families) are clear that with the selected based on current situation of observation and dialogue health and volcanic with Form Teachers and hazards that the country Deans of Discipline. A has found itself facing, preliminary list is by GLORIAH…

classmates — a awareness that helps them to develop a consciousness of self and others that will lead to a sense of civic responsibility and care for their fellowmen. In aiding this drive in a tangible sense, one exercise that is conducted is a community service day is mounted every year on November 3, the Feast Day of St. Martin de Pores, patron Saint of the School. That day is designated ‘Pay and Wear Day’; students pay $3.00 each to wear clothes other than their uniforms. The SMSS Philosophy With a can of a nonperishable item, a The philosophy that student gets past the drives the SMSS includes gate for $1.00. This fund guiding its student provides for families at population into an Christmas time. awareness of the “During this lockdown, situation of their we were fortunate to

prepared, following which the School Counsellor conducts further investigations and a final list of those eligible for assistance is put together. During this challenging period, the School has gone beyond its regular distribution and has delivered packages to homes throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Principal called it, “a response to the plight especially as some parents have lost their jobs and the economy is suffering some backlashes as a result of the COVID-19.”

have some items that we could use to provide for our students. We certainly do not have enough to provide for all students, so the neediest were supported,” Mr. Gibson disclosed. And as for how the distribution works, Mr. Gibson said, “The transaction is between the school and the parents. The school makes the effort to drive to each individual’s home throughout St. Vincent, and sends packages by boat to the Grenadines.

Students are told that they have helped their classmates but never who these are.” Principal Gibson expressed a desire to expand the programme even further, and towards this end, appealed to corporate entities, past students, and individuals at large to contribute to the initiative, bearing in mind that, “For a family who has nothing, every little bit is something!”

Volcanic gases damaging equipment Members of the montoribng team checking and replacing damaged equipment.

(Photo Credit: The UWI SRC) VOLCANIC GASES from the La Soufriere have damaged a number of newly installed monitoring equipment at the site. And a ttrip to the volcano on February 18th, from the Leeward side, by members of The UWI Seismic Research Center (UWI-SRC) monitoring team, was for the specific purpose of replacing monitoring equipment that had been damaged. On 29 December, 2020 an effusive eruption took place within the crater, with visible gas and steam being emitted. Since then there has been

increase activity which caused a new dome to be formed adjacent to the existing one in the crater The new dome has from that time to the present been emitting magma and gases. It has also grown appreciably. On February 18, The UWISRC team reported damage to a number of components (equipment) of the monitoring system - damage which they attributed to the effect of the volcanic gases constantly being emitted. The extent of the reach of the gases was seen when a camera which was fully encased in protective shields, was damaged. A new camera

was installed that hopefully will better withstand the hazardous conditions. Other. Lead scientist on the ground, Dr Thomas Christopher, in an interview on Monday 22nd, said that at present the volcano is going through a gentle eruption, which is a very good thing. “The fact that this has gone effusive initially does not rule out the fact that it can’t go explosive … we need to keep monitoring so we can have a good idea if it decides to go explosive, hopefully we can see it coming,” said Dr. Christopher. “ I think the most likely option right now is for it to stay effusive …… based on what we see it will go on a bit longer … it might stop eventually,” said Christopher, adding that he thinks the explosive option is at a low probability. “ The fact that this volcano

is generating an effusive eruption and generation a dome is a very good thing because it means that gases can escape really slowly and there is less risk of an explosion,” said the Volcanologist . Notwithstanding the ‘low probability’ of an explosive option, Dr. Christopher cautioned that citizens should not think of lowering their guard. (KH) One of the camera installed on the summit of the volcano showing signs of corrosion caused by the gasses.

Dr. Thomas Christopher doing his “thing’ on the summit of not only gathering date, but ensuring the equipment is in working condition.

14. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Senator Julian Francis, Minister with responsibility for Airports and Seaports, conceded that after four years of operation of the AIA, there might be some matters that have to be addressed.

AIA Board to discuss issues

management at the AIA. According to the minister, there may be at the airport, which has been in operation for four years, some areas that were required to be reviewed, and that there were some items among those to be addressed The Board of Directors of which was scheduled for that warranted the need the Argyle International February 23. for attention now. Airport (AIA) was expected, In addressing the The PSU, in a release this week, to address the situation, Francis said dated February 17, issues said to be affecting that he was not prepared indicated that among the workers at the facility. to discuss in detail what issues of concern were Minister with the said issues were, but the non-payment of responsibility for airports confirmed that the increments to some and seaports, Senator workers had some workers and provision for Julian Francis, said on grievances, and that the uniforms which were said radio on February 21 Public Service Union to be last made more that he was expected to (PSU) had been in than two years ago. (DD) address the meeting dialogue with the

PACE denies allegations (Editor’s Note: the following is a statement from Pace Developments St. Vincent. It is carried verbatim.) PACE Developments St. Vincent Inc. is aware of allegations made on a recent social media blog regarding a Black Sands project and receiving 300 Million of investors’ monies. We vehemently deny these allegations; as they are false. We wish to make it patently clear that Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. has never been contacted by any authorities, investigators, accounting or legal firms with respect to these allegations. Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. will vigorously defend its reputation against these baseless falsehoods. Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc., is a company which prides itself on integrity in its business dealings. We want the Vincentian public to understand that we remain committed

The Black Sands Resort development as it stands today. to being a respectable employer on the Island, while supporting the local economy, and constructing a worldclass facility. Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. will continue to work on the project, with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and its people, as we all strive to develop a tourist destination of the highest standard. Due to the Covid-19 ravaging global pandemic, Pace Developments St. Vincent Inc. has attempted to balance construction progress with the health and safety of our employees, by implementing COVID safety protocols to keep the project moving forward.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 15.

News

Marion House: Determined despite pandemic

Below: Some graduates of the Marion House YAP display their certificates while observing social distancing. Director Jeanie Ollivierre is pictured at right.

IN ADHERENCE TO THE COVID-19 PROTOCOLS, an outdoor graduation ceremony was held at Marion House over February 15th and 16th, for graduates of the Marion House Youth Assistance Programme (YAP). The ceremony awarded 22 graduates from Georgetown and surrounding districts, and 24 from the Kingstown and its suburbs. Graduates received Certificates of Completion and tool kits. Director of Marion House - Jeanie Ollivierre, said she was proud of the

determination of the young people, aged 1624, who engaged in a year-long programme to gain social and practical skills. She explained that for the first six months the focus was on developing social skills and skill sets that included preparing a job application and preparing for a job interview. The next 6 months gave the students the opportunity to be apprenticed to various business establishments. Throughout the duration of the programme, each student received a stipend and

according to Ollivierre, some $120,000.00 were expended on the programme. Ollivierre advised the graduates who received their final cheques (stipend) on Graduation Day, to open accounts and use the monies towards becoming entrepreneurs. She noted that 16 graduates have already gained employment since they completed their training, but expressed disappointment that several of the students dropped out of the challenges. programme due to Ollivierre thanked all pregnancy and other involved and emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for young people to “push through.” Under the theme, ‘Enhancing Youth Capacities for

Lions Club South reaching out

THE VOICE OF THE DISABLED, a locally based non-profit organization which advocates for persons with disAbilities, recently received some financial assistance from the Lions Club St. Vincent South. On February 17, 2021, President of the Club, Lion Cornelia Moses, presented a cheque in the sum of $1,000.00 to Mrs. Cheryl Adams, President of the Voice of the Disabled. The assistance will go towards on-going renovations to the Mrs Cheryl Adams, President of Voice of organization’s building. the Disabled (right) accepts cheque from Lion Cornelia Moses stated Lion Cornelia Moses, President of Lions that the Club was pleased to assist the Voice of the Disabled Club St. Vincent South. and hoped that the assistance And in related news, on January will go a long way in helping the 30th, 2021, the Club distributed care organization with its renovations packages to twelve (12) needy families project, as it continues with its in the community of Dickson. The advocacy work. Mrs. Cheryl Adams, distribution of care packages is an President of the Voice of Disabled annual project made possible through thanked the Club for its generous the generous support of the Toronto contribution. SVG Support Group. The Lions Club St. Vincent South has been in existence for forty-two (42) years. Its headquarters is situated in Enhams from which it delivers service in the areas of: Cancer Awareness; Diabetes and Eye Care; the Environment and Climate Change; Hunger and Homelessness; Youth and Sustainable Empowerment. Left: Lions Club St, Vincent South members distributing care packages in Dickson.

Sustainability’, the participants pursued training in areas such as Food & Beverage, Electrical Work, Plumbing and Sewing, among other areas. The Youth Assistance Programme is one of several programmes

carried out at the Marion House counseling facility which is supported by the Roman Catholic Church, its main benefactor, the Marie Holder Memorial Trust in Barbados and other entities. (SG)

16. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (left) and, Ambassador of Cuba to St. Vincent and the Grenadines His Excellency Jose Manuel Leyva Ventura, sign the agreement regarding repatriation of criminals.

SVG and Cuba signs reparation agreement ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES and Cuba have signed an agreement to facilitate the repatriation of criminals to serve their sentences in their home country. The agreement between the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of Cuba regarding ‘Criminal Sentences’, was signed on Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 at Cabinet Room. The signing ceremony witnessed Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves and His Excellency Jose Manuel Leyva Ventura, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, declaring the humanitarian intent of the contract.

Williams heads for Antigua COLIN WILLIAMS, who served as this country’s Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) from 2003 until 2018, will assume duties as a High Court judge, of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, in Antigua. Williams, in fact, will be vacating his post as High Court judge in Belize, a post he has held since 2018, upon his departure as SVG’s DPP. His three-year tenure in Belize had exceeded the initial one-year which he was expected to serve, during which time

According to Gonsalves, “This is a further deepening of relationship between both countries.” The agreement facilitates the process of repatriation once a crime has been committed. The Prime Minister, however, noted that this will be permitted only if the person gives consent to the process. His Excellency Jose Manuel Leyva Ventura also spoke at the ceremony. He said that the signing of the agreement is a special moment for the people of Cuba, and it will serve to strengthen the relationship between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Republic of Cuba. (KH)

Right: Colin Williams, High Court judge, Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

he was to give attention to assisting with clearing the backlog of case in that mainland CARICOM territory, he told media personnel before his departure from SVG. Williams’ appointment as DPP here was met with much opposition from individual members of the legal fraternity and officially from the SVG Bar Association, who were of the opinion that he had had too close of an association with the governing Unity Labour Party (ULP).

They cited among other things, that: he had served as a ULP senator in the House of Assembly; he was Public Relations Officer of the ULP, and worked as a partner in the Law Firm of the current Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonslaves. Williams’ assignment in Antigua was set to commence March 1.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 17.

Opinion

A True Patriot

HOW PATRIOTIC are we? This is a fundamental question we should ask ourselves. Recently I was listening (on Facebook) to a social commentator rambling about what is taking place with the Mini Bus Association and the government. I listened attentively to the rabble-rouser as he lamented on behalf of the owners/operators of mini buses, suggesting what they should have demanded when they met with the Prime Minister. Among the suggestions he made was lowering the tariff on the importation of mini buses and parts. Another issue he highlighted was what he said was the “penalties” (??) imposed by the government on the Mini Bus Association, during this Covid-19 pandemic! As the yapper articulated the ‘ifs and buts’ about the crisis, he said something that knocked me off guard; something to the effect that he cannot go home to eat the homemade food that his wife prepared so he was going to grab some Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). When I heard him say that, I asked myself, how much of a patriot is he? I was flabbergasted; he said it with such zest and passion as if KFC was such a big deal. As one who is always stressing the importance of people, culture, and country, he should have grabbed one of our local, indigenous delicacies!! Does he know that in America, most of these fast-food joints were intentionally placed in the ghettos of the black communities to “fatten the Negro!”

Local losing out to foreign It is crystal clear that we are foregoing our local cuisines and substituting them with KFC, pizza, subway, and Chinese food. And these

days, macaroni-pie has become the ‘hype dish’, but I know too much of that crap causes constipation. In times past, you could have to gone to any nook and cranny of this country and got a refreshing glass of fermented mauby or a lovely glass of soursop, to go with a heavy bread, jam bun or body line. As a patriot, if I had my way, I would close down all foreign fast-foodjoints so we can safeguard our indigenous food. It is common knowledge that our local food is more potent and nutritious than most imported food. The people in the culinary arts need to be more creative in making our food presentable and attractive to the locals and foreigners alike. In effect, we have to give our food an international appeal.

Obesity Worse, there are too many cases of obesity and clear signs of obesity, including our Five Star General. What kind of precedent is the General setting for the children of this nation? Most of the imported food that we eat is hazardous; they are killing us yet we are in a frenzy to gobble down the unhealthy food that comes from abroad. On this little island, where we are so open to diseases, we have to be conscious of what we eat. Let our food be our medicine, and our medicine our food! We must eat what we grow and grow what we eat. The objective is to stay buoyant - hold our heads above water. In such a critical time, we cannot afford to procrastinate about revitalizing our Agriculture sector that was broken by the WTO and the IMF, as a way to flood the entire region of the Caribbean with cancerous

Mauby

food.

Taking pride in what we have We have drifted from highs to lows. America and Chinese imperialism are taking precedence in our country. We must preserve what we have. We must take pride in what we have. I remember as a little boy living in Chateaubelair when my Which one would the mother made her trip to Kingstown and returned Vincie patriot choose? with those tasty cakes hospitality, from Sardine Bakery. As soon as she food, and placed her bag down, there was an culture in his aroma that lit up the house. And in comparing then to now, I am composition, of the view that the taste and standard ‘St. Vincent Nice’. have dropped on the ground like hot In potatoes. Sardine Bakery should still conclusion, a lady from Trinidad told be in existence. It was a landmark me while I was living in New York, bakery; it still resonates with that the best fish dinner she ever had Vincentian, at home and abroad. was when she visited St. Vincent in We must bear in mind the things the 1970s. our food and vibrant culture - that Let us preserve what we have; it is draw people to our shores. As proof, part and parcel of our heritage. Lord Nelson, a Trinidadian calypsonian of legendary status, by Carden A. Michael mentioned his delight in our 2/18/2021

18. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Me, my boyfriend and another Dear George, MY BOYFRIEND and I have been together for 4 years. I must admit that I love him maybe far more than he loves me. I believe that once we get married his love will grow stronger for me. Truth is, I know he is fooling around with another girl; he swore it was only for sex. I warned him that if he gets her pregnant, he should keep on walking. About one month ago he confessed that he got her pregnant. He begged me to forgive him especially since he was finished with the girl. His tears were enough to convince me but I’m not sure whether to stay with him or not. Please give me some feedback on this.

Tight situation

Dear Tight situation, Love should never weigh heavier on one side of a relationship. It should be shared equally, if anything. It is folly to think that once married you can get your partner to love more, i.e. the way you want him to. You have disregarded several warning signs up to this point and you should know what they are. Your boyfriend has eyes for other women besides you. He gives silly excuses for his reckless acts. It is time to bid him adieu and move on. Staying with him is like settling for a consolation prize when you could give yourself a chance to wait for the jackpot.

George

Two-timed by my boyfriend Dear George, AT THE VERY onset of this Covid fiasco I decided to allow my boyfriend to move in with me and my two sisters when the Covid19 broke. Things started out fine until I discovered he has been messing with both my sisters. In fact, I caught him having sex with both of them. My sisters have since moved out and our relationship has become strained. George, I really do love this guy. I made a decision to stay with my boyfriend until I know for sure that none of my sisters was pregnant for him. But it got worse: one of my sisters tested

positive for HIV. My sister was a virgin when my boyfriend slept with her so I know it’s he who infected her. I’m here unable to think, focus or function. I cannot believe this could be the end of the road for me. I’ve been very depressed and sometimes suicidal. I need someone to help me but do not know who to ask.

serious one, and you and your other sister should get tested immediately. Also, you should advise your boyfriend to get tested. As for your own wellbeing, I suggest you seek counseling from the AIDS Secretariat or contact the Marion House for guidance and support. The first move is to know the facts then get advice on how to continue living. Up the creek The worst that can happen is you being HIV Dear Up the creek, positive and even if that happens there is life You should never have after HIV. Keep me waited for pregnancy test posted on your progress. from your sister before giving him marching George orders. The HIV scenario is an even more

A matter of size

Dear George,

MY WIFE TOLD me our sex life is boring and she needs more excitement. I asked her to explain and she said she needs something “bigger” referring to the size of my manhood. I asked her how all of a sudden this was a problem but she went quiet. I suspected her all along to be cheating but never confronted her. A friend of hers once told me she saw the gardener enter the house on more than one occasion and did not come out until hours after, just before I get home from work. It caused a big uproar when I fired the gardener. Lately we have not had a sex life and hardly exchanged words. How can I get things to go back to normal?

Concerned husband Dear Concerned husband, The time is perfect for both of you to get some counseling. You might be surprised how far a few suggestions from a counselor can go to improve the quality of your relationship. It is good time to start talking and listening to each other in an effort to get things back on track. Things are not always what they seem sometimes, which is why it’s always good to rely on facts rather than hearsay and suspicions. Get into counseling right away and start thinking of innovative ways to spruce things up in the bedroom.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Take care of matters involving institutions or government agencies. Talk to someone with experience about budgets or consolidating debts. Travel could be in order.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities this week. this week will be rather hectic on the domestic scene. Trips should be your choice.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Passion is about the best way for you to relieve tension. Caustic language may cause you to want to get out of the house. Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will have to help family members sort out unfortunate difficulties. Be creative in your pursuits. You may have difficulties with someone who lives with you. You may be angry if someone tries to take credit for something you did.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Short trips will be educational. Be sure to take time for old friends or relatives you don't get to see that often. Your creative ideas will be put to good use if you dig in and do things around the house that will make your family happy. CANCER (June 22-July 22) You should be able to tie up loose ends this week. Frustrations and limitations could cause anxiety this week. You will have a problem with your boss if you haven't done your job. Your ability to get the job done will result in added responsibility and possible promotion. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Make sure any presentation you have is ready. Travel will be exciting. Don't bother complaining, do the work yourself. Outdoor sports events should entice you. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Take time to deal with the concerns of children. Health problems may prevail if you haven't been getting enough rest. You may be able to impart knowledge that's innovative to those searching for a new angle.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Get busy trying to make more money. Take care of any pressing health problems. Make changes to your home that will be pleasing to everyone involved. The key to feeling good about yourself will be to do something about it. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your high enthusiasm will be sure to inspire anybody around you. Sudden romantic connections may be short lived. This is a great day to start that new health regimen you've been talking about. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Make plans to mix business with pleasure. Dinner with clients or business associates should be successful. Help elders in your family. You won't be admired at home if you haven't been taking care of your share of the work. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You can come into money that you don't necessarily work for. Travel will be in your best interest regardless of whether it is business or pleasure. Get involved in fitness programs that will bring you in contact with new friends.

ACROSS 1. However 4. Made haste 8. Expansive 12. Actor Wallach 13. Brave man 14. Canyon effect 15. – cheese, sandwich slice 17. So 18. Printing fluids 19. Verse writers 20. Commerce 23. Seeing organ 25. At this place 26. Forest feature 27. Glide on snow 30. Main course 32. Kitchen garments 34. Some refusals 35. Shift direction 37. Revered individual 38. Rural stopover 39. Condition 40. Transfer picture 44. Bonding strip 46. Russian czar 47. Mathematical process 51. Dollar part 52. Golf club 53. Fly – coop 54. Leg joint 55. Cathedral benches 56. Female hog DOWN 1. Senate affirmative 2. Shade-providing growth 3. Connect 4. Gleam 5. Quick kiss 6. Pencil end 7. Dress in (clothes)

8. Presidential rejection 9. Muscle pain 10. Close (a door) 11. Throw gently 16. Biking enthusiast 19. Hatchling comment 20. After that 21. Casino city 22. Drawing and painting 24. 12-month span 26. Future adult 27. Fast-food beverage 28. Rope creation 29. Sea-surrounded locale 31. Wickedness

33. Sacred ceremonies 36. Completes 39. Rotates rapidly 40. Detective Tracy 41. Equally distributed 42. Walking aid

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 19.

43. Poker stake 45. Announce publicly 47. Immerse 48. “—about time!” 49. Taunting cry 50. Just arrived

20. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN

PlayersÊ well-being - Vincy Heat ManagerÊs focus INTERIM MANAGER for the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football Team- Renson Haynes, has put on his list of priorities for his tenure , the “players’ well- being.” Haynes, a former national footballer, was announced as the team’s Interim Manager last Thursday as a replacement for Rohan Thomas Jr. who resigned 8th February. In an interview with the VINCENTIAN last Tuesday, an excited Haynes said that he believed that he is best suited for the job, as he has an idea of the

players’ need, having been in their position. “I have been there too as a national player under the same system… I know what I am here for, some things that I am going to look into... My first and foremost thing is the well-being of the players… That is my number one thing… I will do what I have to do as the Manager to make sure that I do things above and beyond in that regard,” Haynes promised. Confessing to embracing the new position with humility

and honour, Haynes, though, posited that he wants to make an impression during his tenure. “It is a good thing for me, being that I liaise between the (SVG) Football Federation and the players… I have always had my passion… I have always wanted to be in this position to represent the players and do some things administratively on behalf of the (SVG) Football Federation,” Haynes shared. He noted that despite having to take up such

an important role on such short notice and just before the team’s participation in the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers next month, he is at ease, given his familiarity with most of the players who have been selected. “This is an advantage, because I am not a stranger to these players and being a people person; I have connections with them… . A lot of the players and I have had communications, even if it has been in informal ways… Being familiar

with the players, has made it easy for me,” he highlighted. Last week’s release from the SVGFF’s General SecretaryDevron Poyer, announcing Haynes’ appointment, indicated that his tenure would be for the team’s first two matches against Curacao and the British Virgin Islands, 25th March and 31st March, respectively. The same release informed that the SVGFF will be soliciting applications to fill the post contractually, “which will be

Renson Haynes is enthusiastic about his appointment as interim manager of Vincy Heat. communicated to our affiliate members in due course.” Reacting to that intention by the SVGFF, Haynes was blunt. He told THE VINCENTIAN that when that time comes, he will be making an application for the contractual post. Rohan Thomas Jr., the immediate former Manager, served from January 2019 to 8th February, 2021.

Sardine pleased with young players’ inclusion his Academy’s approach, saying, “We do consistent work with our players at all levels and we go out of our way to nurture and develop players. In the immediate past, we have taken the young players overseas to give them incentives and encouragement to stay in the sport, but even before that we were attracting some of the best youngsters, and helped them to develop.” Sardine, an experienced football administrator who, in the past, served as President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Ian Sardine, Founder, Federation (SVGFF), said the Director of System 3 Sports inclusion of players from his Academy. Academy is testimony of his Academy’s commitment to IAN SARDINE, FOUNDER, player development. Director and Head Coach of “This is why I continue System 3 Sports Academy, is making the effort to invest in pleased with the inclusion of a football so the players can get number of his players, incentives,” he stressed. especially the (youth) As for the development development players, in the players, Sardine described national senior men’s football them as the future of the training squad. sport. “I am extremely happy that “If we are talking about the coach has confidence in my 2024 to 2026 for the FIFA players but, then again, that is World Cup in the USA, nothing new. Over the years Canada and Mexico, that we have supplied quite a lot of should be our focus and we players for the national should concentrate on that teams,” Sardine told THE effort, so I am glad and VINCENTIAN. encouraged that the coach has He gave some insight into

One of System 3 Academy’s teams in action in the Arnos vale Football league. started giving the youngsters from the different clubs, including System 3, some exposure.” Sardine is of the view that there must be an ongoing process of seeking new means and ways of motivating and encouraging the young people to get involved in football, since this could only benefit them. “Over the years we have used different incentives. Fortunately, we started having access to colleges in the USA for the ones who were academically inclined, and

there are quite a few out there. So that is one incentive that keeps them motivated and allows them to see there is more than just playing the sport on the field,” he elaborated. And now that traveling overseas is restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sardine, who is a retired primary school teacher, said his Academy is “pursuing other means in motivating the kids, like camping locally in different areas and focusing on a variety of training methods and routines. We also

encourage the kids to do skills work at home which is reviewed by the Academy’s coaches.” System 3 Academy’s website states that: the Academy was established in 1997; it participates in athletics and football competitions locally and regionally; locally it has teams, especially in football, in all divisions from U-7 to adults; it has a combined male and female enrollment of 300. I.B.A. ALLEN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 21.

Sports

Former national athlete donates ‘spikes’ FORMER national track athlete Lenford ‘Pouie’ O’

Garro has donated a quantity of track spikes

(running shoes) to local athletes. O’ Garro, who is a Toxicologist, Health Assessor Washington State Department of Health, USA, procured the shoes himself and shipped them to St Vincent and the Grenadines for distribution to local track and field coaches. The shoes were handed over to Keith Joseph- President of Team Athletics SVG; Chester MorganTechnical Director of Team Athletics SVG and Head Coach of High Performance and Michael Ollivierre, Vice- President of Team Athletics SVG, as well as Head Coach of the IT- DAT Academy. The handing over took place at a brief ceremony at Olympic House, Villa Point, last Tuesday. Woodrow Williams, who made the Keith Joseph at left, receives ‘spikes’ from Woodrow presentation on behalf Williams. of O’ Garro, said that

Chester Morgan (left) accepting ‘spikes’ from Woodrow Williams, on behalf of High Performance. the former athlete’s act of goodwill, was a means of giving back to his country. “This is an effort by two brothers- Lenford and Paul, who both represented St Vincent and the Grenadines in sport, with Lenford in track and field and Paul in football,” Williams commented. “They (the two brothers) said that they were embarking on the ‘giving back’, because of the many struggles they faced as youngsters growing up in Rose Place,” Williams underscored. At Tuesday’s brief

ceremony, Keith Joseph impressed on the recipient coaches that the ‘spikes’ should go to athletes mainly from “the rural areas.” Williams revealed that the procuring of the shoes will be an ongoing on, with the next set expected from O’ Garro, to be distributed to the other active track and field coaches here. The effort undertaken by O’ Garro syncs with a related project dubbed ‘Project Lace Them Up’, stared by Team Athletics SVG last month, following the completion of the synthetic track at

Diamond late last year. The project, the brainchild of Yemi and Jabari Khensu, Vincentians who are residing in the USA, involves the sourcing ‘spikes’ for athletes who cannot afford their own. O’ Garro, a former student of the then Kingstown Methodist School and the St Vincent Grammar School, represented St Vincent and the Grenadines at the World Indoor Championships in the USA in 1987 and at the 1992 Summer Olympics.

CG Insurance Hooper still hopeful about selection Super 50 Cup: NATIONAL bowling allrounder Asif Hooper is holding out hope of being called up to the Senior Windward Islands cricket squad. This, after a recent opportunity to showcase his talent in several practice matches among the franchise players of the sub-region. Hooper was invited by the Windward Islands selectors to play several practice matches with the view to selection to the Windwards Volcanoes to take part in the CG Insurance Super50 Cricket West Indies tournament, currently in progress in Antigua and Barbuda. Despite not being selected for the limited overs format, Hooper was grateful for the opportunity to compete among the best players in the Windwards. “It was a great

experience for me because the exposure has given me further insight into my cricket. I know where I stand now and what I need to do to improve my game and hopefully one day make the team,” a composed Hooper said in a recent conversation with this writer. Hooper, the leading wicket taker in the Premier Division of the 2019/20 National Cricket Competition, and captain of the Grenadines Divers team in the Vincy Premier League (VPL), places much belief in his ability which he said could well be considered for the longer regional four-day format later in the year. “I was told that along with Shamon Hooper, I might go down to Grenada to play some practice games in

preparation for the fourday tournament. I’m very focused on what I need to do to improve my game. My biggest concern is my fitness and I have been working on it. Lately I have been going by the park and doing lots of running. I am also working on a higher arm action which will be more beneficial in the four-day cricket as opposed to the shorter format,” Hooper shared. Shamon Hooper like Asif is from the North Leeward area of mainland St. Vincent. He is an exciting leftAsif Hooper, national handed batsman who all-rounder, is keeping bowls right hand. fit and ready in case Asif Hooper continues to train not only with his there is a call-up to the Windward Islands eyes on a call up to a higher level but also that cricket team. he would be ready and fit permitting, will to compete in the local commence soon. cricket tournaments which, COVID-19 I.B.A. ALLEN

Windwards in Semis VOLCANOES went under to Barbados Pride in their last preliminary round match, but the defeat did not affect their place in the semi-finals of the 2021 CG Insurance Super50 Cup, ongoing in Antigua. In the match played on Feb.18 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, the Volcanoes were bowled out for 113 in 34.4 overs, handing Barbados Pride victory by a whopping 134 runs. This after Barbados Pride had posted 286-8 in their 50 overs, with Justin Greaves getting 76 and Shamarh Brooks Akeem Jordan 61. The Windwards succumbed to was the arm in the Volcanoes’ the fast bowling of Akeem Jordan, 5-26, who was adjudged undoing. Man of the Match. Andre Fletcher, 34, and Captain Sunil Ambris, 26, were the top scorers for the Volcanoes. The first semi-final between Guyana Jaguars and Windward Islands Volcano was played yesterday. The other semi-final will feature T&T Red Force versus Jamaica Scorpions.

22. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

India chops down England THE THIRD TEST between England and India produced one of the most bizarre results in recent cricket history. The speed with which this match was completed left pundits scrolling the records. India knocked off the 49 runs required for victory in 7.4 overs without losing a wicket. England made 112 and 81. India 145 and 49 for 0. When India ended the first at 99 for 3, they were perhaps thinking of a massive first innings lead to keep England out of the game. If there were concerns about the pitch, they were heightened after India lost their last seven wickets for 46 runs. England felt they had rebounded when India secured a lead of 33. Their task was to erase that deficit and set the home team a target for victory. Joe Root 5 for 8, and Jack Leach 4 for 54 combined to skittle India. But that was the start of a fairy tale. That was the clue India wanted. They launched into an all spin attack in the second innings and it paid dividends from the first ball. First innings top scorer Zak Crawley was bowled first ball, and by the third delivery England were two down without a run on the board. From 19 for 3, Ben Stokes 25 and Joe Root 19 made some sort of restoration. But from 50 for 3, the procession resumed and England were all out in 30.4 overs. By then, the result was a formality. For regardless of the conditions of the pitch, it would have taken a miracle for England to win. Axar Patel 5 for 32 to follow up his 6 for 38 in the first innings had a productive harvest. He outshone his senior team mate Ashwin whose match haul of 7 for 74 would have been outstanding on other circumstances. India did not squander such an opportunity and they took 46 deliveries to knock off the target. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill made a mockery of the minefield that the Ahmedabad wicket was projected to be. England will reflect on their decline having taken the first Test in emphatic fashion. They will have to win the fourth to salvage some pride. But India, having been buoyed by the win, set their sights on completing a series triumph. Yesterday Thursday February 25, the Windwards and Guyana determined the other finalist in the CG Insurance Super 50 Cup. Trinidad and Tobago disposed of Jamaica in securing their berth. In addition to national pride, and being on the safe side just in case the Nation’s Cup returns to the fray, there is the Sri Lankan series shaping up. The T/20 segment of that tournament will spark interest and arouse debate with the return of Chris Gayle. There will be reactions to this saga. But that’s an ongoing story.

SVGCC introduces football coaching course

Lenny Taylor, well-known to the football fraternity here, will the Course’s chief facilitator. THOSE ENROLLED in the SVG latter to be conducted concentrated on Community College now have an following clearance by the local teaching additional course/elective available health authorities. different to them. Participants will also have a In what could be considered a written examination at the end of elements of the pillars of the divergence from the norm, the the course and also a practical College will introduce from today, session with 14 youth players via game: Fitness, Friday 26th February, a Youth video to Instructors, 30 days after Technique, Tactics & PsychoSocial elements. Soccer Coaching Certificate the Course ends. Lenny Taylor, a USA Soccer Course. Participants are expected to Certified Level ‘A’ Coach, and The Course, to be conducted pursue the Course in its entirety virtually, will run until and, on successful completion, will former St. Vincent & Grenadines Men’s Head Coach and St. Kitts & Wednesday 31st March, 2021. receive a Youth Soccer Coaching Nevis Technical Director, among Open to full time students of Certificate and three academic other credentials, will be the lead the SVG Community College and credits. facilitator of the Course. coaches from exiting Sports Further details on the Course He will be assisted by Stacy Academies, e.g. System 3, the say that its objectives are to Course, divided into two phases, engage in academic discussion on Wilson, US Soccer Federation ‘C’ Licence Coach; Ria Denny, will run for 32 hours - 18 hours of the fundamentals of Youth theory and 14 hours of practical Football Development as it relates English F.A; Donald Chin-Loy, International Licence Coach; and sessions. to the Caribbean, and on a longCONCACAF Event Manager and Phase One will include 10 term development-strategy hours of online theoretical concentrating on the Pre-Academy Venue Coordinator Roxell John. The Course will be delivered sessions to be delivered via Zoom. stage (Ages 11-14) of the free of cost. Phase Two will comprise 8 hours development pathway. of theoretical sessions and 14 The Course, an accelerated I.B.A.ALLEN hours of practical sessions, the development programme, will be

Williams making good academic progress VINCENTIAN Shantel Williams, who is presently on a four-year athletics Shantel scholarship Williams at the Benedict College in the United States, is satisfied with her academic progress for the new semester. Since returning to her US base, Shantel, who is pursuing a programme of study leading to a major in Business Management, relayed the news that so far this season, “I’m currently doing 7 courses and I have achieved grade-A in all so far. Mid-terms are approaching at the ending of this week and I’m looking forward to that.” Williams spent much of last year back home where she continued her studies online and resumed training with her local coach Pamenos Ballantyne. She was all geared up for a new track season but was sidelined with a minor injury. “I missed my first meet last Saturday because I pulled my hamstring in practice and couldn’t run at the meet. I am hoping for a full recovery…. It’s getting better now and my next meet is this coming Saturday (tomorrow), so I am looking forward for that,” she said. Williams was the 2015 and 2016 InterSecondary Schools Intermediate and Senior

Female Champion respectively, when she represented the Girls’ High School. She was also adjudged

Junior Sports Woman of Shantel is a sprinter the Year in 2016, which known to compete from she describes as her most the 60m up to the 400m. memorable sport moment to date. I.B.A.ALLEN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021. 23.

Classifieds

JAMELLA JANAIR (JAY) SAMUEL

HENSON JEFFERSON JACK

Saturday, February 20, 2021 Church of God World Wide Mission Pentecostal Church Redemption Sharps Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Thursday, 25th February, 2021 Georgetown Evangelical Church Viewing: 9:00 a.m. Service: 10:00 a.m. Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

RONALD DESMOND MILLER Sunday, 21st February, 2021 S.D.A Church, Layou Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Layou Cemetery

REGINALD PETERS D N D ³'RFWRU´ Sunday, 21st February, 2021 Eden Memorial S.D.A Church Spring Village Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Spring Village Cemetery

YVONNE ADVIRA NANTON Thursday, 25th February, 2021 London Cemetery Service: 10:00 a.m.

RENA ARIKAK SAMUEL Saturday, 20th February, 2021 Service: Layou Cemetery Viewing: 2:00 p.m. Service: 2:30 p.m. Interment: Layou Cemetery

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY

26, 2021

VOLUME 115, No.08 www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

A COVID-19 SURVIVOR’S STORY The next day, the feeling continued with pain at the MR. LESROY ‘FROSS’ ARTHUR back of his eyes so he took the was diagnosed as having COVID- opportunity of COVID-19 19 after tests that followed him rapid test offered at his showing symptoms of the workplace. He was disease. He survived. pronounced negative although He gave details of his his symptoms persisted. journey - testing, quarantine Arthur recalled becoming and clearance - while a guest “suspicious” upon realizing on the NBC’s Face to Face that he was unable to smell programme on 12th February. the air freshener in his Arthur disclosed that his vehicle’s, which he knew to be ordeal began on January 14th strong. while being at work. He He verified his loss of smell began feeling “fluish,” but when it came to having a dismissed it as dust affecting meal. “I couldn’t smell it his sinuses. (food),” he declared. He then After work, “I took some conducted a home experiment. tablets, went bed and woke up “I got some Vicks Vapour Rub, feeling normal,” he reported. put it in my nose and I by GLORIAH…

realized I’m not smelling the Vicks Vapour Rub either, and I know Vicks is a strong thing.” Lesroy ‘Fross’ Arthur had no inhibitions about sharing his That was when he became COVID-19 experience with the rest of SVG. (Facebook photo) concerned. He immediately isolated himself from everyone He admitted to not using at home and got tested the prescribed medication but As for what he learned from following day. It returned a relying instead on home the experience, he said that he positive result. remedies, like ginger, saffron was happy that friends didn’t and garlic tea morning and treat him differently. “I must Confinement evening; and steaming his face say it is very important to with Vicks Vapour Rub. have support… my friends Arthur spoke about his During that time he keep checking in and my quarantine which lasted some reported no cough, fever or family …. brought me stuff,” twenty-six days in total. headaches, simply loss of taste he stated. “At first, it was really He mentioned, though, on difficult! Being somebody who and smell and inferred that apparently it was “safe to say the downside, those who had is always about, ..and to be restricted to four walls, it was that my symptoms were mild.” decried him for admitting By the prescribed diagnosis. pretty difficult,” he fourteenth day of quarantine, Arthur cautioned persons to acknowledged. he was not entirely symptom- rest and to eat wholesome food As a hypertensive, he said free and was ordered into an and, more importantly, to that “…during the first few additional week in quarantine, desist from panicking. days, questions kept flying “I think fear is their worst around in my head: ‘I have an then retested and eventually cleared after twenty-eight enemy. For people with underlying condition and I days. underlying conditions, it could was going to die’. That was be serious,” he posited. the most difficult part — the A learning experience acceptance!”

SUPER SIX WINNER NEEDS NO PROMPTING

by the National Lotteries Authority (NLA). DEBRAH HALBICH is a The presentation was made business woman and needs no at the office of the Carnival advice from anyone as to how Development Corporation (CDC), Victoria Park, and she should spend and/or media personnel interfaced invest her recent windfall. virtually with the Halbich, last week Friday, presentation party, in was presented with a cheque in the amount of $210,000 for accordance with COVID-19 related protocols. having won the February 12, NLA General Manager2021 draw of the Super Six, one of the games administered MacGregor Sealey, in by WILLAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Debrah Halbich (right) – Super Six winner – and MacGregor Sealey – Manager NLA – at last week Friday’s presentation.

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

presenting the cheque, recognised Halbich as a woman of business acumen, and, unlike with most other Lotto winners, he refrained from offering any advice as to how she should use her winnings. Ms. Halbich thanked the NLA for providing the opportunity for her to be rewarded with a cash prize.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.