THE VINCENTIAN PDF- 29-05-20

FRIDAY MAY

29, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.22

LIAT nosediving?

Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

Man beaten then killed Page 5

Couple gunned down Page 7

EC$1.50

Sailors COVID-19 + Page 14

UNION ISLAND MOURNS FOR THREE FIRE VICTIMS

Nothing is left to give any visible indication that a gas station once occupied this now vacant lot.

SEVENTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD FREDDY NAERT, owner of the UniGas Station and former owner of Big Sands Hotel, and 12-year-old student Lindini Neverson, two of three persons who sustained severe burns about their bodies following a fiery explosion at UniGas Station, Union Island, Tuesday 19th May, died on Sunday 24th May at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

A third burn victim, Shaniqua ‘Zara’ Alexander, In true community spiritedness, residents came with hose and pumps to help fight the fire.

Prison Officer to sue Page 24

Freddy Naert – proprietor of the gas station – the lone one on Union Island – succumbed to first degree burns.

(Facebook Photo)

Lindini Neverson, 12 years old, did not survive second degree burns.

Left: Shaniqua ‘Azaria’ Alexander died on Wednesday in Trinidad and Tobago. who had been flown out on Sunday to Trinidad and Tobago to seek specialized medical treatment, died in that country on the evening of Wednesday, May 27.

Alexander and Neverson were students of the Union Island Secondary School.

Understandably so, Union Island, a closely knit Southern Grenadines community, was plunged into deep mourning.

One resident, in describing the atmosphere that seemed to have weighed even more intensely with the news of ‘Zara’s’ passing, said, “You can hear crying all over through the valleys.”

Continued on Page 3.

Continued from Front Page.

V Lennox John showered with appreciation 2. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

John, Cynthia Samuel, Lafayette Johnson, Robin Woodley, Jerald Williams and Monty Constance treated Mr. John to tributes via video.

Sentiments were expressed in keeping with Mr. John’s role in encouraging the steelband. “At a time when the steelpan was looked down on and when a steelband in a school was not the norm”, our school was chosen to be given such a gift….. You are the glue that, up to this day, knitted us students into a family’ …. pan brought both students and

by GLORIAH… appreciation that were presented to Mr. John - a teachers together.”

Among those making MR. LENNOX JOHN, past plaque, a video and an the visit were Monty Principal of the Bishop’s artist’s portrait.

Constance, first band College Kingstown (BCK), Mrs. Joy Cato, a past Director; Robin Woodley, came in for great praise Principal of the BCK, first Captain; and Keith and profound appreciation handed over the plaque Joseph, first Manager. last Friday, 22nd May. which read, “In honour, In handing over the This when a number and to show heartfelt portrait which she of persons paid a love, gratitude and painted, Ms. Rashida surprise visit to his home appreciation to Mr. Samuel, daughter of in Cane Garden, and Lennox Lancelot John, original band member bestowed gifts on a man for introducing the Cynthia Samuel, said, “It they consider a visionary Steelpan Programme at was truly an honour to and a ‘Principal of Bishop’s College work on this portrait of Principals’.

Kingstown in 1985.

The idea of the From the members of the you.”

For her part, past activity was born out of original/first Bishop’s the recent reuniting of College Steel Orchestra.” Principal Cato recalled the inclusive thrust Mr. the members of the Members of the John introduced at the original Bishop’s College orchestra - Terry school.

Steel Orchestra.

Haynes, Francelia “Mr. John There were three Marksman, Catherine concentrated on the primary expressions of Joseph, Ingrid JosephLennox John – ‘Principal of Principals’ – the man of the moment.

Lennox John and his wife proudly display the portrait that was part of the tokens of appreciation.

holistic development of the school,” she said.

“Programmes went beyond academics. In addition to the improving GCE and CXC results from year to year, BCK also enjoyed participating in netball, athletics, football, cricket, drama and music festivals. The school’s presence was definitely felt at competitions like Junior Calypso and Junior Panorama. All of this went a long way in creating self- confidence in the students.”

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN, a somewhat teary-eyed Lennox John began with,

STAGE set for Georgetown THIS SATURDAY, Georgetown will be the focus of an awareness-building exercise.

Andre Liverpool, a wellknown cultural and social activist who has deep ancestral roots in Georgetown, will take to the site where ‘once upon a time’ a branch of Barclays Bank was located, to mount what he calls STAGE - Stand Tall Again, Georgetown Environment.

It is, he said, an attempt to rekindle interest in the town, considered the second town in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and to highlight the need to protect its environment.

Liverpool thinks it is time that Georgetown be recognized not only for what it was — the home of the Sugar Industry etc. - but also for its other agricultural endeavours, its commerce, its diverse ethnicity, its culture, its services (Diagnostic Centre) and

Right: There is still a certain physical charm about Georgetown even as it has seen changes like any other rural community. its unique environment.

Interestingly, to add even more significance to the occasion, STAGE is being mounted on the birthday, May 30, of this country’s foremost cultural/musical ambassador — the late Ellsworth McGranahan ‘Shake’ Keane, who, irrefutably, left a huge indentation on the Vincentian cultural and literary landscape, and may still be far from being rightfully honoured in his homeland.

‘Shake’ was also principal of the now closed Bishop’s College Georgetown, after he was dismissed by the St. Vincent Labour Party Government as Head of the Cultural department.

This is just a small beginning, Liverpool said, which he hopes would morph into a wider involvement and effort.

Joy Cato (left), past Principal of BCK, prefaced the presentation of a plaque with a short account of Mr. John’s thrust and successes as a principal.

“I feel specially honoured today because these are people I haven’t seen for years; and they are coming back and bringing me such sentiments. We have been out of touch, but they found a way to do it!”

He told how he did what he did just because he thought it was the right thing to do, and even as he admitted to being a ‘Grammar School person’ through and through, he went on to explain, “When I came to Bishop’s College, I realized that we were not the top academic school in the island. I thought there must be some little niche for us to fit into, and I chose culture and sport.”

He confessed that his Christian upbringing caused him to believe that it was a position

into which God had brought him, realizing that, “everything I touched, turned to gold!”

Mr. John spoke of the successes of the steel orchestra, beginning with the then Trinidadian method of finding the nearest pan-yard for students to practise; then going beyond their norm to institute a pan-side in the school. The orchestra got to the point where there were three bands: Junior, Intermediate and Senior bands. “We just became respected,” was his explanation.

The names of the Bishop’s College Steel Orchestra and Mr. Lennox John will continue to ring true in the annals of the history of SVG. John’s honouring was apropos.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 3.

News 3 SVG accepts GrenadaÊs offer

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES (SVG) has confirmed that it will accept Grenada’s offer to assist residents of Union island with refuelling.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said on radio on Monday, that he had indicated to Grenada that SVG will accept that country’s offer.

He did, however, stress that he will be writing to Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell of Grenada, to accept the offer and to make it clear that the refueling must be done in an organized and structured manner, agreeable to all parties concerned.

Grenada’s offer to assist the residents of Union Island with refueling followed on the heels of a fire that destroyed the lone petrol station — UniGas - on that Southern Grenadine Island.

That fire had occurred on Tuesday, May 19, took two lives, and affected nearby properties. (See related story on Front Page)

By May 24, Prime Minister Mitchell had issued a statement in which he offered Grenada’s help in the wake of the gas station fire.

The offer would follow in writing, and PM Mitchell was careful to establish that there would be no move on his country’s part until the

government of SVG had accepted the offer formally.

Once that was done, the Prime Minister said Grenada would move to offer the service — refueling — between 8am and 6pm daily.

Notwithstanding Grenada’s readiness to begin soonest, PM Mitchell recognized that there were certain protocols governing the operation that would have to be worked out.

Recent ‘bad blood’ between Prime There is a general feeling of satisfaction that Prime Ministers Dr. Keith Mitchell and Dr. Ralph Ministers Gonsalves Gonsalves could find common ground on which they could put the people’s need first. and Mitchell would have informed a more Island to ascertain careful and structured approach to who would want to this recent offer of help, which was not work with any of the dissimilar to SVG’s offer to help fuel distribution residents of Carriacou and Petite companies, with a Martinique with cooking gas and other view to resupplies. establishing a petrol According to Prime Minister station on the island.

Gonsalves, his government intends to engage business persons on Union

Union Island mourns for three fire victims

LIAT’s nose still in the ground INTRA-CARIBBEAN AIRLINE LIAT has further suspended its passenger service until May 31. This, according to the airline, has been occasioned by the continued border closures across its network.

Julie Reifer-Jones, Chief Executive Officer of LIAT, in making the announcement, said that passengers who booked tickets for travel after the 15th May, will receive a full credit which can then be used for future travel, once restrictions are lifted.

LIAT’s cargo and charter services remain available to the public.in service.

This further suspension of passenger service comes on the heels of a recent (Mar.) injection of EC$2.6 million cash by St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

There was some objection in and out of the Parliament to this recent injection of cash, but the grant to LIAT was approved as part of the larger Stimulus Package of EC$74.5 million, passed in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Parliament in March.

Persons across the region who have been following the ongoing LIAT saga, will recall that in late

Continued from Front Page.

The outpouring of grief also brought several inadequacies sharply to the fore that residents are claiming negatively impacted on the burn victims’ lives. These will be examined in an article to be published in next week’s issue of THE VINCENIAN.

Fire and more fire

It appears to be a case of ‘here we go ‘round the mulberry bush’ as far as LIAT is concerned.

2019, the Antiguan parliament gave its government approval to secure a US $15.8 million dollar, 10-year loan from Venezuelabased bank Banco del ALBA, to purchase additional shares in LIAT. All this injection of cash has not made LIAT any more competitive, and even during this COVID-19 crisis, LIAT, notwithstanding the real operating cost, could not offer a competitive rate to fly Vincentian students home from Jamaica, quoting in the region of US$1,300.00 per seat as against One Caribbean’s US$400.00, who eventually moved the students in two flights.

The situation with LIAT appears to be one of not having a silver lining at the end of its

rainbow.

In fact, in a recent radio interview, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne stated that the regional carrier has suffered tremendously as a result of border closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He stated that, “LIAT was already in a very precarious situation, and COVID would have worsened the situation. So right now LIAT, just like any other airline globally, will be in need of a bailout.”

Expect another windfall of hard-to-get cash for LIAT as the airline’s government shareholders stretch their already burdened financial capacity to ensure that ‘LIAT stays in the skies’.

The fire is said to have started around 6:40pm and was, according to a Royal SVG Police Force release, brought under control by 11pm.

This was due in great measure to the intervention of private citizens who, according to a source on Union Island, brought and manned pumps and hoses in the herculean effort to control the blaze.

Flames “remained visible up to 4am on Wednesday 20th May, and firefighters were on the scene well into the early daylight hours of that day, addressing heavy steam coming from the foundation/ground of the buildings, and areas within the vicinity of the explosion.”

The fire is said to have spread to a number of nearby buildings, causing the St. Vincent Electricity Company Limited (VINLEC) to cut power to the area.

Sources on the Southern Grenadine island told THE VINCENTIAN that “the incident happened while the gas truck — which is owned by the gas station — was being used to transfer fuel to the tanks on the compound.”

Those sources also informed that it was Alexander who first alerted the gas station staff to the extraordinary stench of fuel. Alexander, we were told, attempted to investigate but did not escape the flames.

Meanwhile, Union Island based Radio Grenadines reported that at least one other building in the vicinity, a wooden structure used by the Roots Connection Culture Club, was completely destroyed. jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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4. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Murder accused caught with cellular phone one black alcatel cellular phone and charger, which are prohibited ULRIC HANSON of articles, contrary to Mayreau, one of four men Section 47(b) of the charged with the 2018 Prisons Act, Chapter 393 murder of 50-year-old of the Laws of St. Security Guard Rodney Vincent and the George of Victoria Village, Grenadines, Revised was sentenced to six Edition 2009. months in prison at the He had pleaded guilty Calliaqua Magistrate’s to the charge before Court on Monday.

Senior Magistrate Rickie Hanson received the Burnett at the sentence for inducing Kingstown Magistrate’s into Her Majesty’s Prison Court last week, but Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Burnett recused himself and the matter was transferred to the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court for sentencing.

The facts revealed that Hanson was returning to the prison, May 6, following proceedings in relation to the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the Security Guard’s death. That PI is ongoing at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

According to the facts, Hanson was subjected to a search as per standard operating procedure.

The prison officer conducting the search, felt something untoward in the area of Hanson’s chest. He was asked to

declare what he had, and Hanson, who was wearing two shirts, took the phone from the pocket of the inner shirt.

Further checks turned up the charger which was concealed in one of the four boxer shorts he was wearing.

Hanson, along with suspended Police Constable Ettian Charles of Arnos Vale, Glenville Harry of Vermont and Jerome Ollivierre of Mayreau, are jointly charged with the Security Guard’s murder, which occurred between August 31 and September 1, 2018 at Arnos Vale.

They are also charged with entering the GEC

Auto Supplies at Arnos Vale between August 31 and September 1, 2018, as trespassers, and stealing EC$2,074 in cash, the property of Gevandean Wilson proprietor of the business.

George’s body with throat slit, was discovered in that building on the morning of September 1.

Senior Magistrate Ricky Burnett is presiding over the Preliminary Inquiry which has been adjourned to June 3.

Meanwhile, Charles, Hanson and Harry, along with Racquann Robinson of Campden Park and Elroy Rodgers of New

CHIEF MAGISTRATE Rechanne Browne, on Monday, stressed the right of detained persons to a phone call, especially in relation to seeking legal advice.

The Magistrate made the point when two men facing marijuana charges at the Serious Offences Court, revealed that they were denied the opportunity to make phone calls while in custody.

The issue arose when the Magistrate inquired of Andres Jordon, 30, of Fitz Hughes, and Bastien Dembar, 29, of Union Island about the issue of legal representation.

The men are jointly

charged with possession of 18,160 grams of marijuana with intent to supply, and possession for the purpose of drug trafficking. Dembar pleaded guilty to the charges, while Jordon maintained his innocence.

The offences were reportedly committed at West Key, Bequia on May 22.

The arresting officer who was asked to take the stand, said one of the men wanted a phone call, but did not know the number.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche reminded the officer that

the men were entitled to a phone call. He noted that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was a very small country, and the men were in custody from Friday to Monday.

In his view, there must have been somebody they could have made contact with, within that period.

“We have to do better than that,” he declared.

The Chief Magistrate noted that the men were facing serious charges, and a phone call could influence the way someone is guided, especially in relation to legal representation, as they may not understand

Ulric Hanson Montrose, are awaiting the hearing of a Preliminary Inquiry into the September 15, 2018 robbery of Medical Doctor Reisha BrowneCaesar, the wife of Agricultural Minister Saboto Caesar.

They are accused of being armed with a gun, robbed Browne-Caesar of items valued EC$10,350, and documents.

Greaves loses thousands – employee No phone call for accused charged KESWERT SLATER, a 39-year-old male employed with C.K. Greaves and Company Ltd as a Customs Broker, has been charged with the theft of over EC$63,000 from the Company.

The Clare Valley man is charged with stealing EC$44,664.90 in cash from the Company between May 4, 2019 and December 31, 2019.

Slater is also accused of stealing EC$18,710.22 from the business place between January 2 and April 7, 2020.

Slater is alleged to have made the transactions during his employment with the Company.

When he initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on May 13, Slater pleaded guilty to both charges, and the matter was adjourned for sentencing. He was unrepresented then.

However, when the defendant returned to Court on Wednesday, he was represented by Attorney Israel Bruce, and changed his pleas to not guilty.

The matter was then adjourned to June 22.

the way the legal system works.

She urged the arresting officer to ensure that this does not happen again.

The Senior Prosecutor requested an adjournment to consult with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to determine whether they would be proceeding against Jordon.

The matter was put for yesterday (Thursday) and the men were each granted $10,000 bail with one surety, with reporting conditions.

Accused burglar sent for observation TWENTY-FIVE-YEAR-OLD McRico Ash of Barrouallie, facing charges of aggravated burglary, as well as firearm and ammunition possession, was referred to the Mental Health Centre on Monday for 14 days observation.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne made the order at the Serious Offences Court after Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche indicated that, based on the records, Ash may have a mental problem.

Ash is charged with entering the Liquor and Provision Shop of Dudley Dickson of Barrouallie and stealing household items and $60 in cash, amounting to a total value of EC$248,

and at the time had in his possession a homemade shotgun.

He is also charged with possession of that homemade shotgun, without McRico Ash licence, and one round of shotgun referred to the Mental Health for ammunition. observation.

The offences were reportedly committed at Barrouallie on May 19.

Ash was not required to plea as the charges were laid indictably.

V Man beaten then killed

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 5.

Crime

MORALIS DELANO STANLEY, aka ‘Rapper’, was beaten by two men one day before he was killed.

Stanley, a 45-years-old unemployed man of Chauncey, was found by neighbours at his home on Tuesday, May 26, in a pool of blood, with his throat slashed.

According to a very reliable source, Stanley was run down and beaten by two men in Lowmans Leeward on Monday.

“Two guys were running him down and they bus’ up his head. He went to the hospital and they discover that he had a fractured skull. He was told that he needed to be admitted to the hospital, but he left,” the source disclosed.

On Tuesday morning, family members were advised to check on Stanley. When they did, they saw what appeared to traces of blood about his house.

The neighbours entered the house sometime around 7am, and found his bloodied body with his throat slashed.

He was pronounced dead on the scene by the District Medical Officer (DMO).

While the police gave no indication of what might have caused Stanley to bleed so profusely, one resident of Chauncey, who claimed to have known Stanley “very well,” but said, “Ah doh war me picture or name in your

the drugs for a while, but soon fell back into the habit.

“I said the rate at which this boy is going I don’t think he would live to see the year finish,” said a resident in the Who was ‘Rapper’? community.

One of Stanley’s friends who is Friends of the deceased described involved in the music fraternity here Stanley as a very funny person who told THE VINCENTIAN, “I recorded loved music. “He love to sing and him plenty times. The man was cool make people laugh,” said one person. and just wanted to be a soca star but However, for a number of family plenty fight down and that make him members and neighbours, the get wild.” deceased could be quite disrespectful.

He never lost interest though and “Sometimes he curse his family and continued to compose songs, mainly in people around,” said a neighbour, the soca genre. adding, “We didn’t always study him The person referenced here because after he done curse, he come disclosed that Stanley had written a and behave nice especially if he wants song which was taken from him by a something.” local music producer, who had accused Up to the time of his death, Stanley Stanley of stealing “something” from was living by himself in a house him. That producer is said to have located in the same compound/yard as given the song to another artiste and his parents. the song became a hit.

He grew up with good parents who And without any reference to the tried to provide for him, a relative of name of the song and the artiste who the deceased told THE VINCENTIAN. eventually recorded it, the friend said “He had internet, electricity, big flat that the song was the Road March for screen television and other stuff but carnival a few years ago. he eventually sold them because he In the meantime, police continue was on drugs,” the relative revealed. their investigations into the Relatives recalled that Stanley was circumstances surrounding Stanley’s once incarcerated but did not give any death and await the result of a postfurther detail. mortem. KH) Upon his release, another relative attested to the fact that he stayed off newspaper,” said that it looked like “somebody chop up” his ‘friend’ .

The informant said that he had not seen Stanley since “de weekend.”

Moralis Delano Stanley, aka ‘Rapper’ was found dead in a pool of blood.

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6. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Crime

Mixed reaction to teenager’s death

A REDEMPTION SHARPES teen who was shot in Gun Hill, Lowmans Leeward, on Monday at around 12:45pm, succumbed to his wounds on Tuesday at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Juwanie ‘Gun Man’ Roberts, a 17-year-old bus conductor of Redemption Sharpes, was shot while walking along the Gun Hill public road. A police report said he was approached by a lone masked man, who opened fire on him and, in the process, inflicted multiple gunshot wounds about his body.

According to a close male friend of Roberts,

the deceased had received a message from a girl inviting him to visit her. “It seems as though he was set up to me,” according to the friend.

Roberts, though, had a number of ‘run-ins’ with the law here. He was questioned by police in the murder of another Redemption Sharpes man who was shot and killed two years ago in the area of the Sharpes Playing Field.

News of his death was met with mixed reaction in his native community.

“He was pompous and always telling people he going shoot them,” one person told THE

VINCENTIAN. Another described him as “show self but cool,” adding, “He was caught up with the wrong crowd I would say. He was a real nice boy.”

Roberts is the second person from the Trigger Ridge community of Redemption Sharpes to have been killed this year.

With the death of Roberts, St. Vincent and the Grenadines recorded its fourth homicide in four days and 15th for the year.

His death followed the double murder of Denesia “Gazaden” Corridon and her

Edward Alexis, a resident of Redemption Sharpes, was shot on Sun. 15th March, 2020, while on his way home from a birthday celebration. boyfriend Lionel “Gobler” George, who were killed on Saturday in Arnos Vale, and Moralis Delano Stanley, aka ‘Rapper’ who was found with his throat slashed at his home in Chauncey on Tuesday morning. (KH)

Juwanie ‘Gun Man’ Roberts was said to be on the police radar.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 7.

Crime

Well known couple gunned down

POLICE HERE SAY they are investigating the circumstances surrounding a shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of Lionel ‘Gobler’ George, 28-yearold unemployed man of Rockies, and Deneisha ‘Gazaden’ Corridon, 25year-old businesswoman of Yambou.

A Security Guard was also shot, though not lifethreatening, during the incident.

George and Corridon who were said to be in a relationship, were sitting in a motor vehicle parked in the vicinity of the Prime Lime Bar in Arnos Vale, when two men, armed with guns, approached the vehicle and opened fire.

The couple was shot multiple times, with Corridon, a mother of one daughter, dying on the spot, according to the police.

George was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.

Known to the police George and Corridon

had made headlines here in early November 2019 when, in another shooting incident, George was severely wounded, including taking a shot to his head.

On that day, the couple was said to be unpacking clothes for sale, which they conducted on the sidewalk in Middle Street opposite C. Prescott and Sons Ltd. business place, when a lone gunman opened fire on George.

The gunman, eye witnesses said, had walked the length of the street from the Corner of Middle and Melville Street, and used an umbrella to conceal his identity as he made his way up to where George and Corridon were.

The gunman unleashed his bullets on George and fled the scene on foot, making his getaway through Paul’s Avenue.

Pictures of that incident flooded social media within minutes of it unfolding, with graphic accounts of a wounded George and one showing Corridon cuddling a

bloodied George.

Police subsequently charged Lejah ‘Soups’ Alexander, of Glen, with attempted murder in connection with that shooting.

George, for his part, was well-known to law officers here.

Back in October 2018, he was a suspect in a shooting incident that took place in Paul’s Avenue which left three men nursing wounds.

In November of that same year, he was questioned in connection with the shooting death of businesswoman Sabitree Lyttle of Paul Over. She was shot to death during what police deduced to be a robbery platforms. of her business, which And as they continue she conducted out of her their investigation into home. the shooting deaths of Later that month, George was arrested and charged with the attempted murder of Tevin Williams of Rockies, who was shot in his chest.

Williams was shot and died a year or so later.

Corridon, for her part, was notorious for her use, some would say misuse of social media

Lionel ‘Gobler’ George was no stranger to the law here.

Left: Deneisha ‘Gazaden’ Corridon.

George and Corridon, the police are seeking the assistance of the public in obtaining

any information that will lead to the apprehension and prosecution of the offenders in this matter

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8. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 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

We have the money THIS COUNTRY’S PARLIAMENT, in March of this year, passed into law a COVID-19 Stimulus and Socio-economic Recovery Package.

It was, to put it in legal, parliamentary language, the passage of a Supplementary Appropriation Bill that allowed, in this case, for extraordinary expenditure over and above, outside of the 2020 Appropriation Bill, i.e. the 2020 Budget.

This Bill handed to the government permission to spend an extra EC$74. 5 million, approximately 3.4 - 4% of the country’s current GDP, to address the serious displacement that the COVID-19 pandemic would have wrought on the Vincentian economy.

According to the Prime Minister, this Supplementary Appropriation Bill — this Stimulus Package — was to be funded by the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG), the Contingency Fund of the Government of SVG, and finance institutions like the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and more.

Well, just in case you have not been keeping score, many of these benefactors have come good.

The World Bank has provided US4.5 million to be used “to improve the ability to isolate patients, increase testing capacity, and purchase critical supplies, including personal protective equipment, mobile isolation units, testing equipment, reagents, gloves, and masks. It will also support the health service capacity by increasing access to medical equipment and expanding the capacity of hospitals.

The IMF approved US$16 million to assist with this country’s “..financial needs amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic —to provide the funds to aid in covering balance of payment and fiscal requirements stemming from the virus outbreak.”

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) approved a concessionary loan to the tune of US$11.3 million (approx. EC$30.1 million) “to finance

the response to the COVID-19 pandemic… provide vital liquidity and increase governments’ fiscal space to allow the country to promptly meet their urgent financing needs without diverting resources away from critical social expenditures or health emergency needs…”

We have not yet heard of either the UAE or BOSVG making a contribution.

What we know of other local agencies and institutions stops with the NIS, which has committed EC$750,000 toward readying the Isolation Centre at Argyle.

If our Maths is correct, as of this point in time, our Stimulus Package of EC74.5 million dollars has been financed (not including the NIS contribution) to the tune of US4m, US$16m, and UD11.6m , making for a grand total of US$31.6m or conservatively, EC$84.7m.

And as we understand it, assistance is forthcoming from the United Kingdom as it rolls out a grant of USD $3.8m to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), to help eight countries of the Caribbean — SVG included.

Unless there have been some critically important unforeseen demands that have forced their way on to the Package since its passage through Parliament, in a simple layman’s understanding, we have enough ($$$) to take care of our Recovery Plan as set out by the Prime Minister, and approved by this country’s Parliament.

The least we can look forward to, as a country of laws and fair play and in keeping with the tenets of our hardfought-for democracy, is accountability for how this money would be eventually spent.

There is no want of funds to make the Package happen, so there should be no need for any further Supplementary Appropriation Bill or Special Warrants.

The Stimulus Package can be financed outside of the recurrent/capital revenue (2020 National Budget). This, however, does not mean that extraordinary expenditure — like the COVID-19 Stimulus Package - must not be accounted for in the Parliament of this country.

We will hold the government to account accordingly. There must be no attempt to abuse the spirit of the Stimulus Package.

The political system EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an extract from a longer article written

by Dr. Kenneth John and first published in the September 1972 edition of The FORUM, the organ of the then Education Forum of the People (E.F.P).

Two-Party System- A failure All those with eyes to see must admit that our two party system has been a signal failure. To begin with, there is no reasoned basis for its presence, there being not one whit of difference between two major groups that have sewn up the island between themselves. While we are on this question, we might as well pass one hurdle by knocking it down. It has been glibly said that the PPP is a lower-class party, and that Labour Party is the middle-class party. This is sheer nonsense.

If this were so, how would one explain Labour’s control of half of an electorate that is seventy-five percent lower-class? The explanation seems to lie in the slipshodded tendency to see the two parties as Cato and Joshua writ large. But scratch the surface of both parties and you will find all sorts everywhere.

This point is sharpened by the history of defection in local party politics. There has been a complete freedom of movement between the two groups, with the result that they now contain the same socially mixed bag of men. After all, Latham, Slater, Haynes, Marksman, Russell and Soso did a stint with the P.P.P. before becoming committed Labourites.

Similarly, Clive Tannis, Owen Walker and others came to the P.P.P via Labour. And, of course, you have on both sides of the fence an almost equal number of barristers and other professionals; they both have civil service backing and general support from every stratum of the society.

Now this game of political hopstep-and-jump has done untold harm to the political process. For years it has been characterized by persistent instability. There have been several periods when a single man was placed in a position where he could,

and did, hold up the island to political ransom. In 1959, when the composition of the House stood at 4 P.P.P, 3 Labour and one Independent, the Independent Campbell, joined in a plot to overthrow the ruling P.P.P. The P.P.P was saved when Clive Tannis changed his mind and threw in his lot with them. In 1961, after Haynes had defected to the Labour Party, the P.P.P with a majority of 5 — 4 was again saved only by Slater’s decision not to follow Haynes’ example.

Slater’s resolve to stand firm with the P.P.P. In 1964, in the face of blatant overtures from Labour also allowed Joshua to continue in Office.

All Vincentians with a political turn of mind will recall the events of March 1957 when Slater reversed a 5 — 4 P.P.P majority by jumping on the Labour band wagon. And no one will, of course, forget that fateful April day when the electorate called the bluff on the political process in showing the parties that it was, literally, six of one and half-dozen of the other; and the odd-man-out was allowed to dictate the tempo of the game.

Members of the Forum feel that such a situation cannot be allowed to continue. The chronic political instability does the country no good.

Government cannot function when its head has always to be looking over his shoulder wondering where the next ‘crisis’ would originate. The Opposition, too, tends in such a situation to fail the country as good watchdogs, but concentrate day-in, day-out, on hatching schemes to detach a member of the Government.

A general ‘James-Bondish’ atmosphere of cloak-and-dagger politics envelops the country, and nothing positive emerges. Instead, a state of ‘betweenity’ prevails and everybody gets caught in the drift, doing nothing but waiting for something to happen.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 9.

Letters

Dog and bone

TOO MANY STUDENTS are being needlessly left behind during this COVID-19 crisis. In times of difficulties, we need to emphasize the basics and use the resources at hand to effect what needs to be done.

While it is desirable for everyone to have access to an electronic device (smart phone, tablet, computer) and internet service, this is not currently the case. What we have is a promise for the future. Even if we get them now, it would take time for their use to become common place with students, teachers and parents, i.e. gaining an understanding of how best to use them.

Therefore, let us use the available tools for our learning. All students should have textbooks which generally outline the work to be done for the school year. Teachers can outline the chapters that should be done and the questions to be answered.

Parents can then supervise the students as they complete the work. Where syllabuses are available, they can be the basis for the textbook assignments.

Electronic devices if available can be used as additional resource materials, together with the Public Libraries if they are open.

Whether there is a crisis or not, every student needs to have assigned work, and parents need to know what the work is. This must be based primarily on the available tools, mainly textbooks guided by syllabuses.

It appears to me that we are dropping the bone of our textbooks and available resources, and grabbing the shadow of electronic devices. Beside text books and specific assignments, students need to read widely, including the local newspapers, and write about a page a day (journaling). In this way, their reading and writing skills will generally improve.

Anthony G Stewart, PhD

Bearing the grind I EXPECT that there will be a lot of talk about how we have to bear the grind as we recover from COVID-19. What I think, though, is that, like always, it is a case of those who already don’t have, or who live from pay day to pay, who will be bearing most of the grind. Same old melody… same old lyrics.

And even if the government continues with its unbecoming handouts, which is really glorified public assistance, and their love boxes, when the time comes, they the government will allow big business to simply run over us on the way to returning to their big profits.

And by the way, who do you think made the biggest killing during this COVID-19 crisis with their low wages?

And who do you think were the first to talk about having to cutback?

These are the same people who will get all the tax concessions and reduced electricity and water rates to ‘help them over the rough times’.

I tell you, donkey say the playing field ‘not level’, and he knows what he talking about.

Expect, as we move into what will be called the recovery phase, that it will be business as usual, i.e. — profit before people. And to think we have a Labour government.

‘Honest’ Frank

In it together ANYTIME there is a national crisis, whether it is because of a natural disaster or something like we have now with this coronavirus, we are reminded from all angles and by all kinds of people, some of them who all of a sudden feel they are leaders, that we are in this crisis together.

This has got to be the most popular if not one of the more popular slogans at this time. All of a sudden, we have to work together, we have to be our brother’s keeper, like these are not things we should be encouraging all year round.

As far as I see it, Mr. Editor, during normal times, it makes no political sense to be talking about we are in it

together, but we have to appear like we care for the people during a crisis so we have to be politically correct and say, every opportunity we get, that we are in this together. It not only sounds nice, it should help to get votes.

So, if it is that we are all in this thing together, then we are in for the good and the bad. We have to be glad when all those agencies come to our assistance by giving us millions of dollars, even if we will never get a clear account of how they are spent. But we have to take the bad also - like when we get involved with other prime ministers and their government, and ridicule them. Or like when we keep our

we caused them, and don’t employ our men and women.

So, you see, we are in it together — for the good, the bad and the ugly.

Fisher of men

Sean Paul, dancehall and violence I MUST ADMIT that I am not a regular viewer of IK TV. That said, I was flicking through the channels recently and my interest was caught by an interview on IK TV, featuring one of Jamaica’s big dancehall artistes, Sean Paul.

Sean did a good job of showing how dancehall was a natural development within the whole reggae music. I learned much in that feature. But, Sean Paul missed one very, very important connection when he missed, unless I missed it, admitting that

dancehall music — what some called reggae glorifies violence. Not all the dancehall artistes are guilty of this, e.g.

Damian Marley and even Sean Paul himself, but the fact is what we are hearing and getting out of Jamaica itself encourages, directly or indirectly, violence, moreso gang violence.

The story that surrounds artistes like Vybz Kartel, speaks to that reality, and the worst thing about the whole affair is that there are willing acolytes just waiting to lap it all up. And don’t

Love, forgive, respect DEATH, by whatever means, is a reminder of the frailty of life. It also reminds us of the importance of having a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Some of these deaths might come as shocks, but they brings to fore the question as to whether we are prepared or not for death. Life and loved ones must never be taken for granted…we are here today and gone tomorrow.

Therefore, it is important that we value life and others around us, especially those who mean something to us.

Too often, we wait

students languishing in what we really don’t know, instead of getting them home.

(Government did not pay to get those students home from Jamaica). Or like when we got all tangled up with the cruise lines and had our sailors in a state of not knowing if they coming or going.

These sailors are going to be home for a while. The money they would send home is a big chunk, so that is something that we will be missing. They now have to dig into their savings most of which they might have been thinking they would use for something else. I hope to God that the cruise lines don’t hold against us all nonsense

until the person has died to give the individual due commendation and show appreciation.

And while we are on showing appreciation, it is sad that we allow party politics to divide us. At the end of the day, we all will die. So, it is important that we love, forgive and respect one another, not slander and create hate because of politics.

Let me take this opportunity to say thanks to the government for the fixing of roads in several areas of Rose Bank, including Forte Hill where the late DAYMON EDWARDS

once lived. Readers can recall that this writer had written about the road and its need for repairs. Unfortunately, the road was completed after his death. For this road and others, we say thanks. For when it needed fixing, it is mentioned, and then it is only fair that thanks be sent when the job is done.

Let us as a people seek to love each other regardless, and also learn to respect others.

May God bless this nation SVG. Kennard King

think that this influence has not reached down to SVG. So, Mr. Sean Paul, there might be an interesting story to how dancehall evolved but we cannot speak of one side of the coin only.

When a coin is flipped

to determine who bats or who balls in a cricket match, the umpire would say and he tosses the coin into the air, “Heads or Tails?” Each side of the coin matters.

Charles, Edinboro

Do I worship the right way?

SO MANY VIEWS exist about how to worship God in a way that pleases Him. Jesus reveals how God wants to be worshiped. At John 4:23-24, we read in part: “...now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in TRUTH...the Father seeketh such to worship him....they that worship him MUST worship him in...TRUTH.” Hence, a person who wants to truly worship God, must make sure that what he believes is the Truth.

Verse 23 says that the Father seeks true worshippers. Hence, to please God, a person cannot follow traditions that go contrary to what is found in God’s Word.

(Matthew 15:9.) If our worship is not fully

based on God’s Word, then we will be on the broad way that leads to destruction, of which Jesus said many are on.

Few are on the narrow way to life. Matthew 7:13, 14.) No doubt, we wish to be among the few that are on the narrow way to everlasting life.

The present serious COVID-19 situation along with other things happening, indicate that the world is quickly coming to an end.

(Matthew 24:3.) It is high time now for people to make sure for themselves that they worship Almighty God the way He desires, not just the way we feel.

(Psalm 83:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:21.)

Kenneth Kayman

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10. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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When exceptionalism meets exceptionalism: The Story of SVG and ULP Leadership: Part 3

The Journey to the United Nations Security Council

campaign that would be carried out in a strategic and very meticulous way, to ensure a successful outcome.

BEFORE July 2019, three countries of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) had been elected to serve as non-permanent members on the 75-year-old United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Guyana had done so on 2 occasions, 1975-67 and 1992-93; Jamaica, 1979-80 and 2000-01, and Trinidad and Tobago 198586, meaning that the last time a CARICOM member-state served on the UNSC was 2001. Based on land mass, Trinidad and Tobago was, before 2020, the smallest country in the region and possibly among the membership of the United Nations to serve on this very powerful international body. That regional representation at the CARICOM level had served a total of 5 times in 74 years, an average of once every 15 years, when examples exist of a single country serving as many times within the last 30 years, suggest a system that favours the large and the powerful.

There continues to be discussions around the eventual reform of the United Nations Security Council, with little indication of a consensus being arrived at any time soon, yet member states of the United Nations, including those in a grouping known as the L69, continue their attempts to keep the discussions alive. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines through its Permanent Representative H.E. Rhonda King, currently serves as the spokesperson for the L69.

Friends of ALL

Over the next 10 years, SVG embarked on a multifaceted campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UNSC. There were significant expansions in the number of countries with which we established diplomatic relations, with ideology (religious or political) serving no purpose, but purely on the basis of shared interests, mutual respect for international law, and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.

Existing relations were deepened as was obvious in the number or invitations offered to this country’s leaders to pay official visit to allies, as well as official visits made to this country by foreign leaders and officials. During the campaign period, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continued increasing its visibility, reputation and influence within the United Nations, and our country’s diplomats assumed greater and greater roles of leadership. During the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, H.E I Rhonda King served with distinction as the chair of the sixth committee that deals with the entire organisation’s budgetary and financial matters. This, during a period that saw the USA under a new president, slashed contributions to the organisation, at a time when member Our turn, our voice states sought to maintain and, in some cases, increase its mandate. In In 2009, Saint Vincent and the 2017, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines declared its intention to Grenadines was elected to serve as seek election as the Group of Latin one of the Vice President, of the America and the Caribbean and Social Council (GRULAC) candidate for the 2010-11 Economic (ECOSOC), and in 2018 served as that non-permanent seat on the UNSC. Council’s President. Those two years The then Permanent Representative in the leadership of ECOSOC to the United Nations, H.E. Camillo many opportunities to SVG Gonsalves, had been involved over his presented to show real leadership in areas of the tenure in activities at the highest Sustainable Development Goals level in the organization, including climate change, renewable Co-chairing a global conference on the (SDGs), energy, the fight to eradicate poverty, impacts of the 2008 financial crises food security and the provision of that had exposed this country as a quality healthcare, in the process thought leader among Small Island gaining international recognition.

Developing States (SIDS). It was Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, evident that this country was virtually unknown hitherto, had risen experiencing improved reputation at stature at the premier organisation the international level stemming from in excellent representation, a result of a in the world. clear and principled foreign policy, Conclusion and good governance practices at home through the deepening of our With 2 days to go before the representative democracy, openness elections UN General and transparency. In the face of clear Assembly,atElthe Salvador announced its and undeniable evidence of the bid for the GRULAC seat on the leadership provided by SVG at the UNSC, making it a contested election.

UN, our government was convinced this occasion, confident in the that we possessed all of the elements On work we had done over the last 10 necessary to serve the world at the years, forging relationships, showing level of the United Nations Security leadership and promoting our ideas on Council. the issues confronting our world, our No sooner had we indicated our government never wavered. Dr intentions to seek election to the and Sir Louis along with UNSC, Colombia, another member of Gonsalves other diplomats, were present for the GRULAC, also indicated its intentions elections in the GA Hall, with the to seek election for the same vacant Minister casting the ballot on seat. This meant, that SVG’s bid was Prime of SVG. In the end, when the no longer uncontested, a much easier behalf votes were counted, Saint Vincent and pathway to election; we now faced a Grenadines received 185 of the contest with another member state of the 193 votes cast with El Salvador our region. The prospect of a battle, 6 votes and 2 abstention. It firstly for the nomination of GRULAC obtaining indeed a joyous occasion for this gave all indications that it would have was the world applauded and been hotly contested, and would have country; watched in amazement at an presented a potential fallout that accomplishment that could only be could have created unnecessary described at exceptional. SVG in a divisions. Therefore, in wisdom, PM remarkable show of exceptionalism Gonsalves withdrew SVG’s bid for had now become, the smallest country election. What had begun in earnest to ever be elected to the UNSC. however, was in fact a 10-year

Save Salt Whistle Bay

Recognising the failure of the ULP government to act, in November of CLIMATE CHANGE is real. In St. Vincent 2019, the Honourable Terrance and the Grenadines, we have seen and Ollivierre, in the November 2019 felt its effects over the years. Its impact Sitting of Parliament, asked of the has contributed to many adverse Minister of Finance the following changes which if not urgently and question: “Can the Minister please effectively addressed will threaten provide an update on the current (future) sustainability. situation in regard to the erosion of Some persons have spent their life the Windward Bay into Salt Whistle savings trying to combat this Bay, Mayreau? phenomenon without much success.

Part of his answer was: “The Unperturbed, the Mayreau government is devising an action plan community, with its extremely limited at Salt whistle to achieve the resources, is battling in order to try to following objectives: 1. Protect the save Salt Whistle Bay from the isthmus from further erosion; 2. Avoid ravages of Climate Change. adaptation solutions that detract from Salt Whistle Bay, one of the most the idyllic beauty of the beach; 3. Use captivating anchorages in the world, natural material if possible and 4. is an important part of the tourism Establish a solution that is quickly product in the Southern Grenadines. implemented.” The community of It is a haven for yachts and visitors Mayreau is still waiting. from around the world. It is also a The International Monetary Fund part of the Tobago Cays Marine Park in its World Economic Outlook stated since the island of Mayreau, though that we must urgently put measurers not one of the Tobago Cays per se, in place to effectively respond to falls within the boundaries of the Climate Change or face drastic Park. consequences in the future. We are The Marine Park generates income required to come up with adaptation from the fees collected on a daily basis strategies to help reduce vulnerability from the moorings that are located and safeguard our people. there. Most significantly, many persons from the island - Mayreau earn a livelihood from activities at this important tourism venue. Among others, the T-shirt vendors, the small restaurant operators, the boat boys, laundry operators and tour operators from mainland St. Vincent and the other Grenadine islands depend on this gem of a location for their survival.

Salt Whistle Bay before erosion The Minister of Finance in his budgetary address of 2019 stated, “Mayreau’s Salt whistle Bay, arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the Eastern Caribbean, a tiny sliver of rapidly eroding land — now less than 6 feet wide — is all that stands between preservation and destruction of this major tourist attraction.”

Yet, from that time to now, nothing has been done towards the implementation of short term measurers to mitigate against the destruction of this major hub in the Southern Grenadines. The lack of action by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government is really shocking and demonstrates that it lacks the urgency, seriousness and commitment necessary to save Salt Whistle Bay, our national heritage, and safeguard the livelihood of the many persons in Mayreau.

Present state of Salt Whistle Bay The inaction of the government has forced the community of Mayreau to act in an effort to save Salt Whistle Bay. The people are fighting on their own, using their limited resources, scarce tools, bare hands and their imagination to come up with creative means to wrestle against the odds.

There is need for an urgent government response to this crisis.

Why hasn’t this government been able to attract the financing necessary from regional or international funding agencies to begin to seriously tackle the problem at Salt Whistle Bay? The situation has been fully ventilated in the parliament of this country and at the OECS parliament during its last sitting by our leader, Dr. Godwin Friday. We must save Salt Whistle Bay!!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 11.

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Post-traumatic Slave Syndrome and African Liberation

Prudence

“Prudence is no doubt a valuable quality, but prudence which denigrates into timidity is very seldom the path to safety.” Edgar Algernon Robert Gascoyne-Cecil (1864-1958), 1st Viscount Cecil of Chelwood, CH, PC, QC, known as Lord Robert Cecil from 1868 to 1923, was a British lawyer, politician and diplomat.

PRUDENCE IS DEFINED as that ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason. It is classically considered to be one of the four Cardinal virtues; the others being temperance, fortitude, and justice as recognized by the Bible and the renowned Greek philosopher Plato. It is that ability to discern the fitting course of action to be taken in a given situation and at an appropriate time.

The National Gallery in London, England, houses a 30” x 27” painting that is captioned “Allegory of Prudence”. It is an oil and canvas painting that is attributed to the Italian artist Tiziano Vecelli or Vecellio (1490-1576) known in English as Titian. History records that it was done some time between 1550 and 1565. The painting portrays three male human heads each gazing in a different direction. The heads, from left to right, depict what we describe as “the ages of man”; an elderly man, a mature man, and a young boy. The head of the elderly man appears to be gazing at the past. The mature man seems to be concentrating on the present, and the youth’s head conveys an image of looking towards the future. Directly beneath these are three animal heads also looking in different directions; a wolf, a lion, and a dog. At the very top of the painting there is a barely visible inscription that reads: EX PRÆTE/RITO // PRÆSENS PRVDEN/TER AGIT // NI FVTVRA / ACTION? DE/TVRPET (Latin for “from the experience of the past, the present acts prudently, lest it spoil future actions”.)

Among other things, Titian’s painting of “Allegory of Prudence”, reminds us that we should be learning from the past and using those experiences to influence responsible decisions today that will not endanger possibilities (in the future). Prudence is required as we plan our career paths, establish relationships, consider investment possibilities, and so on.

Prudence beckons for consideration when we are faced with challenges/temptations to compromise values and principles. Whatever the circumstance, we need to draw on our experiences (success and failures) and consider how best to proceed. Leaders and managers in business, society, and government are required to imbibe the wisdom that is captured here. They are to avoid making mere subjective decisions based on the here and now.

Conversely, they are expected to be objective planners who would ensure that fairness, equity, and balanced judgement are the hallmark of their stewardship. In doing so, they would qualify to be accurately described as being prudent.

We need to encourage our children and young persons to be prudent. This calls for a disciplined approach to life where they are able to make sacrifices today for a greater benefit tomorrow.

These thoughts are clearly expressed

by Dr. John Demartini when he says, “Great geniuses are willing to pay the price. They’re willing to make sacrifices for their dreams. Instead of

partying with their friends, they spend hours practicing, studying, and preparing. They give up pleasure and entertainment and face their fears and doubts. They do whatever it takes.

There’s nothing wrong with that, because pain and pleasure always come together as a pair.” Prudence demands that we contemplate what we must do now in order to better prepare for tomorrow.

Our community, government, church, and business leaders must develop the discipline to be prudent.

They must have the foresight to anticipate the likely situations in the short, medium, and long term, and to take the necessary steps to ensure, as best they can, that adequate preparation is made. Such planning involves ensuring that appropriate financial structures and procedures are implemented and maintained. It also requires a focus on succession planning and the development of human capital. These are critical considerations if appropriate strategies are to be designed and implemented.

Prudence demands it.

There are several biblical passages that come to mind as we share thoughts on the importance of prudence. The Old Testament records of Joseph readily surface. His interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream in Genesis 41 reinforces the need to be prudent. We recall that Pharaoh dreamed that he was standing by a river. Suddenly, seven well-fed cows emerged from the river and grazed in the vicinity. Shortly thereafter, seven other cows came up from behind them.

However, these were sickly and skinny. They ate the seven well-fed cows. Pharaoh was understandably worried.

As he resumed his sleep, he had a second dream. On this occasion, he saw seven good, healthy heads of grain growing on a single stalk. However, just beside them, there soon emerged seven other heads of grain that appeared withered and thin. These thin heads of grain devoured the seven good heads. Pharaoh was distraught.

He sought an interpretation of his dreams. Eventually Joseph was summoned and explained to the great Pharaoh that Egypt was to anticipate seven years when the harvests would be plentiful followed by seven years when food would be scarce. He then recommended to the great leader that it was imperative that they store up food during the seven bountiful years so that they can have in reserve during the lean years that would follow. They did this. They were prudent. This prudence enabled the citizens of Egypt to survive a drought that devastated many neighbouring nations.

Prudence demands that we engage in visioning exercises. It reminds us that we need to go beyond merely anticipating the future. It invites us to make adequate preparation for the same. We are required to do so on a personal, corporate, and national level.

The past is gone (never to return).

The future is before us. Let us plan today for a better tomorrow. That is prudence.

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

LAST MONDAY was celebrated across the world as African Liberation Day. These days, very little is done here in SVG to mark this significant day, but in the 1970s and 80s, huge rallies, pickets, panel discussions and demonstrations were held demanding an end to colonialism and apartheid in Africa. The demand for independence was widespread among colonized peoples. Some took up arms and resorted to revolutionary violence to secure their freedom.

When we speak of slavery and colonialism crimes such as kidnapping, rape, mass murder, exploitation and human degradations come to mind.

Continental Africans and those in the diaspora endured centuries of mistreatment. And then, in the 19thcentury, legal emancipation of the enslaved was achieved mainly through the efforts of our ancestors.

No one stopped to think or study the impact of slavery and colonialism on the body and mental health of the formerly enslaved. Our ancestors were simply ‘freed’ and made to eke out an existence the best we can.

The trauma of enslavement must have been great, but who cared?

Then in 2005, Dr. O’Leary-DeGruy published a critically acclaimed book entitled ‘Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America’s Legacy of Enduring Injury and Healing (PTSS)’.

The study describes a set of behaviors, beliefs and actions associated with or related to multigenerational trauma experienced by African Americans that include, but not limited to undiagnosed and untreated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in enslaved Africans and their descendants.

Dr O’Leary-DeGruy argues that centuries of slavery in the United States, followed by systemic and structural racism and oppression, including lynching, Jim Crow Crow Laws and unwarranted mass incarceration have resulted in multigenerational maladaptive behaviors, which originated as survival strategies. The syndrome continues because children whose parents suffer from PTSS are often indoctrinated into the same behaviours, long after the behaviors have lost their contextual effectiveness.

DeGruy states that PTSS is not a disorder that can simply be treated and remedied clinicall; it requires a profound social change in individuals, as well as in institutions that continue to rationalize and justify inequality and injustice toward the descendants of enslaved Africans.

Central to Dr DeGruy’s argument was that trauma can and does pass from generation to generation through the genes of trauma victims. Many in intellectual circles condemned her work as a new form of racism, until well, white people started acting in ways which were diagnosed as post-traumatic stress…soldiers returning from Viet Nam, Afghanistan and Iraq or those who experienced major disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes.

Susan Pease Banitt says ‘PTSD is a whole-body tragedy, an integral human event of enormous proportions with massive repercussions.’

Intergenerational trauma is the idea that serious trauma can affect the children and grandchildren of those who had the first-hand experience, due to living with a person suffering from PTSD and the challenges that can bring.

What’s new is — thanks to the emerging field of epigenetics — science is discovering that trauma is being passed down to future generations through more than simply learned behaviors.

Researchers offer the example of survivors of the Jewish holocaust

passing the effects of trauma to children and grandchildren.

It seems that trauma or its effects are being passed down through our genes, and it has enormous consequences for us as a species.

Prof. Judy Atkinson in her book ‘Trauma Trails’ says the worst examples of intergenerational trauma occur when a generation is born carrying the trauma of their parents, and the parents and children are still living in circumstances that are traumatic. In some cases, this can go on for generations, particularly in cases of ongoing war, colonialization, and genocide.

According to transpersonal psychologists, when the trauma is so overwhelming that our only defense mechanism is to avoid feeling it, then we continue to carry it until someday, we have the courage and strength to finally feel all of it and come to emotional completion, though the physical event may have ended long ago.

Several problems can prevent this: a person may not feel like they are in a safe enough environment, or not supported enough to go into the vulnerability of feeling their old pain in order to release it; the person may struggle with being re-traumatised by going back into the memory of what happened.

Dr Joy DePruy made all of these points in her 2005 book, but they were rejected presumably because they laid bare the cause of many problems confronting African people.

If Jewish people whose horrible experience at the hands of the Nazis, less than a century ago, is believed to cause transgenerational trauma, and soldiers returning from war zones are diagnosed with serious physical, mental and psychological problems, why is it so difficult for the intellectual community, and more significantly African people themselves to recognize and accept that after centuries of brutalization during the slave trade and slavery, colonization and the dehumanizing practices that flow from racist policies, that there is a post-traumatic slave syndrome that continues to negatively impact and affect our people?

Could this disorder that follows our people from conquest, genocide and slavery be an explanation for why so many of our people find it so difficult to cope with life’s challenges, That we are overwhelmed and feel we don’t have the tools or skills to find our way through?

Could the trauma of our past help to explain what some describe as retraumatization, when a person wakes up their old pain and trauma to try to release it, but then instead of accepting and thereby allow it to flow out of them, they contract around it with their judgment that this is something they don’t want? So, they experience the pain again but do so without releasing it?

Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome can include any moments of pain and tragedy that have occurred throughout our life, but by far the biggest factor of whether the pain remains with us as trauma, is whether it was overwhelming and whether it continued to be overwhelming.

As we continue the struggle for African redemption and liberation, a proper understanding of our history is indispensable. Unless we emancipate ourselves from mental slavery, many of us will continue to self-hate and engage in destructive actions with far-reaching implication for our families, our race and countries.

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

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NDP silent on taxing super-rich of Mustique and Canouan?

THERE IS WIDESPREAD poverty throughout SVG, nonetheless the superrich of Mustique and Canouan still get customs duty and tax exemptions. This is disrespectful to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines(SVG), and an outrage that it is allowed to happen. Yet, the NDP regime is deafeningly silent on taxing the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan.

We all know that tax exemptions for the super-rich came in under an earlier incarnation of the NDP regime.

One would have thought, though, that under a new leadership, there would be a new direction. Sadly not. The NDP regime has not called for the abolition of customs duty and tax exemptions for the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan. There is no change.

The NDP regime vocalised support for a Citizenship by Investment Program in SVG. This means sellingoff our valuable Vincentian citizenship to more rich foreigners. Is this just a

plan to bring in the friends of the super-rich and let them not pay tax too?

Once there are children in poverty in SVG living in households without mains electricity and water, missing out on education and going to bed hungry, and there are, it can never be right that the super-rich foreigners of Mustique and Canouan do not pay tax and customs duty.

People have asked Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, ‘How can we ever trust a party that is a puppet of the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan?’ The answer is: You can’t!

We all know ‘He who pays the piper calls the tune’. Is this why the tax and customs duty exemptions are given to the super-rich, and the obscene greed of the super-rich is put before the needs of Vincentians?

We have seen that as more superrich foreigners come to SVG, the rights of our people are eroded: Vincentians were moved and pushed aside in Canouan to make way for the superrich; fisherman have restrictions placed on their ability to fish near Mustique, and access to beaches has been denied in various places in SVG. These are just a few examples of the loss of rights for Vincentians.

Hundreds of millions of dollars have been lost in tax exemptions given to foreigners. Why have we not heard the NDP regime calling for an end to these unfair tax exemptions?

Scholars have argued that foreign funding of political parties undermines democracy and is an attempt by actors external to a political system to influence the outcome of national processes, such as elections. This type of influence distorts a fundamental democratic principle: that the election

of representatives should express the political preferences of the politically enfranchised citizens.

If rich individuals are able to buy greater influence through large donations, then citizens can be marginalised in the political process, and this threatens political equality.

This undermines good governance and the rule of law, and has negative consequences for economic development and the alleviation of poverty.

We must see the end of the tax exemptions for the super-rich brought in under the NDP regime, and regimes wean themselves off the ‘teat’ of the super-rich foreigners.

A Green Government, under the leadership of Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, will abolish the customs duty and tax exemptions given to the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan. It is only right that this happens and the needs of Vincentians are put before the greed of the super-rich foreigners.

Vincentian scientist chronicles his journey: Success in treating COVID-19

MY NAME is Dr. Chester Toney. I am the creator and mastermind of the Herbal Formula DR. T’S HEALING FORMULA, a formula I conceptualized upon my return to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 1998 after eleven years of studies in Havana, Cuba. This

sojourn included four (4) years of self-financed specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology. I also pursued post graduate studies in Sexology and Alternative Medicine /Complimentary Medicine.

I reminisce now on the injustices, prodigious and treacherous ordeal that I faced in 1998 upon my return to the land of my birth as a young enthusiastic Obstetrician/ Gynecologist. Having studied in the most prestigious Gynecological

Institute/ Hospital in Cuba at that time, I found that the actions against me were grossly contentious, to say the least.

Vincy people, my sick Mom and sick brother at the time; but the Directorate at The Ministry of Health, which practically remains the same up to this day, was All doors shut not willing to allow me this privilege or even I was never given a job allow me to fend for in my specialty that I had myself. As the saying applied for with the goes, “A Prophet is Ministry of Health at that without honor in his own time, nor did the Health homeland.”

Officials see it fit to After many months register me even as a and many concerned General Practitioner to citizens “crying shame” on work privately in my the injustice that was blessed homeland, meted out to me, I was Hairoun. They were finally registered. acting as a Government The Formula and treating unto themselves.

Legally, I had fulfilled COVID-19 every criteria needed to Notwithstanding the be registered as a Medical ordeal and Doctor in the state of St. disappointment, I had Vincent and the occupied my mind Grenadines, yet the researching the many status quo did not want herbs in my homeland me to serve my country. that were used for Ironically, I was told by medicinal purposes. That one of the officials, that with one telephone call he was the genesis of DR T’S would be able to get me a HEALING FORMULA. Through time, the job in St. Lucia or St. formula has been Kitts where there were modified and transformed vacancies. to the final product that I had turned down many lucrative contracts we now know it to be.

In February of 2020, I to work in Brazil, Spain began receiving calls from and South Africa the diaspora about the (Soweto’s Chris Hani possibilities of using my Baragwaneth Hospital), Formula to fight COVIDthe largest Hospital in 19 and its complications. the Southern Some even inquired about Hemisphere. All I ever wanted was to be at home its usage for inhalation and oral consumption as in St. Vincent and the both preventative and Grenadines with my

curative measures. Many had already accessed it and were using it to fight many other ailments.

To date, there are no less than ten (10) persons in the diaspora and one in SVG who have contracted COVID-19 who have used the Formula. All have recuperated completely with negative test results for COVID-19. Thanks to God and His guidance, my WhatsApp communication and of course DR T’S HEALING FORMULA. To date, my formula has treated and saved many lives sometimes where conventional medicine has failed. I crafted this formula, inspired by GOD, with a depth of scientific and traditional knowledge seldom seen. It encompasses Floral Therapy by Dr. Edward Bach (Surgeon), a system of treating diseases by emotions, Caribbean and Universal Herbology, Ancient Eastern Medicine, and Chinese Medicine methods of brewing and preserving herbs.

This formula can be used as an anti-microbial treatment (anti-viral, anti-fungal anti-bacterial) and anti-parasitism. It has anti—inflammatory properties and high percentage of anti—oxidant that will eliminate free radicals

from your body. It is a powerful immune system booster and many more properties too numerous to mention.

Of note is that all herbs were taken from the remote foothills of the La Soufriere Volcano to guarantee a one-of-a-kind potency. Hairoun is really blessed with most of the curative plants for the “healing of the Nation/ Nations.”

This new product treats a wide array of medical conditions including but not restricted to Infertility, Chronic pains, GERD, (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease), HIV/ AIDS, Cancer, Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). It is also used as an organic hair rinse, residue and pesticide remover for fruits and vegetables.

For more information concerning DR.T’S HEALING FORMULA, please contact Dr. Chester Toney, upstairs Bonadie’s Supermarket NO.1 Bedford Street, Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

WhatsApp /telephone 1784 455 3513.

Dr. Chester Toney(MD) Physician Specialist in Obstetrics /Gynecology Alternative / Complimentary Medicine Practitioner

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 13.

Tributes to Donnie De Freitas

Donnie De Freitas: A SVG icon “ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has lost an icon… a champion of the under privileged in sports and a great humanitarian.”

That is the assessment of Sean Stanley, current Public Relations Officer of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association (SVGTTA), of Vincentian Donnie De Freitas, who died last Friday, in Fiji.

De Freitas, 63 years old at the time of his passing on Friday 22nd May 2020 in Suva, Fiji, , served as President of the SVGTTA during the 1980s.

In paying tribute to De Freitas, Stanley recalled, “I first met Donnie in 1987 when I won my first National Senior title while still being a Junior player...Donnie had a heart of gold… He was always willing to offer advice to young Table

Tennis players, and I am a living product of his golden heart.”

Stanley credits his attainment as a university certified Table Tennis coach, to mentorship and guidance of De Freitas.

Apart from heading the SVGTTA, De Freitas served as President of the National Olympic Committee (NOC), now called the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, from 1990 to 1997.

As President of the NOC, De Freitas was instrumental in shaping the constitution of the organization. He also served as Vice President of the NOC. When he moved to St. Lucia to take up a regional appointment in 1990, it was to become a primary contributor to conceptualising and

structuring the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL), the regulatory body for telecommunications in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. (OECS).

He would go on to become ECTEL’s first Managing Director.

At the time of his death, De Freitas was Project Director, Pacific ICT Regulatory Resource Centre, Fiji. Previously, he had worked for six years (2009 to 2015) as the Regulator for Samoa.

His interest and work in the field of Telecommunications was triggered in 1981 when he was among the second Donnie De Freitas – Electronics Engineer, Sports Administrator and batch of Vincentian Sportsman. students to begin studies Engineering. telecommunications Cable and Wireless. in Cuba.

De Freitas is also sector in the OECS, in A funeral service for He would go on to credited with playing a effect, the dismantling of De Freitas was held in complete a Master’s major role in the the century old monopoly Fiji, last Tuesday.

Degree in Electronic liberalization of the of British Telecoms giant

Message from SVGOC: Donnie De Freitas - Sports Administrator par excellence IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS that Administration Seminar, funded by Lotteries Authority.

Caribbean and the Americas. We are the St Vincent and the Grenadines the Malaysian government, 11 — 14 An astute sports administrator, all overwhelmed by his death.

Olympic Committee (SVGOC) January 1993. fluent in Spanish after having done his The SVGOC’s Executive and entire acknowledges the passing of Donnie During his tenure Donnie also degree in Cuba, Donnie De Freitas membership extend sincere De Freitas, a former President of the oversaw the SVGOC’s hosting of the made an indelible impact on the condolences to his family, immediate organisation and of the St Vincent and Annual Sports Awards, until it fell Olympic and sports movement of St and extended. (Submitted by Keith the Grenadines Table Tennis under the ambit of the National Vincent and the Grenadines, the Joseph, General Secretary, SVGOC) Association.

Donnie passed away early on the morning of Friday 22 May 2020 in Fiji, where he was employed at the time.

During his engagement in IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS that we pioneering role as Project Manager of Service, Network Management, sports administration, Donnie announce that Donnie Fitzgerald Fedelis the World Bank OECS Broadband Access and Number transformed Table Tennis in St Telecommunications Reform Project, Portability among others.

Vincent and the Grenadines. In De Freitas, former Managing Director Donnie participated in negotiations Donnie was a great team player, 1990, he was elected president of and Director of Technical Services at ECTEL, died suddenly on Friday 22nd between the governments and Cable & always willing to offer advice and his the SVGOC, a position he held until he left local shores in 1997 May 2020 in Suva, Fiji, where he Wireless, which eventually resulted in expertise to all members of staff at to take up an appointment in St resided and worked. Deepest the end of the existing monopoly of ECTEL, as well as to the National Lucia, before eventually moving condolences are extended to his wife, his telecoms services. He played an Telecommunications Regulatory across to the Pacific where he family and friends, and colleagues, on instrumental role in the establishment Commissions in the five ECTEL resided until his passing. behalf of the Council of Ministers, Board of our unique multi-island regulatory Member States, and other regulatory Donnie oversaw the systematic of Directors, Management and Staff of authority — ECTEL. agencies. He was well travelled and revision of the SVGOC’s ECTEL and the National During the transition of the OECS well-known throughout the Region and Constitution and established an Telecommunications Regulatory Telecommunications Reform Project to beyond, because of his dedication to the administrative and operational Commissions (NTRCs).

ECTEL, Donnie served, from 2000 — further advancement of the telecoms structure which served the Donnie was a proud national of St. 2003, as the Interim Managing Director, sector, and also because of his sense of institution well for decades.

Vincent and the Grenadines, who made and Secretary to the Council of humour and easy-going nature. His Under his watch, the SVGOC his mark during the liberalisation of the Ministers of ECTEL. He also served as colleagues and friends and associates facilitated a National Sports telecommunications sector in the Director of Technical Services from 2004 will remember him as very affable and Consultation that was held at the ECTEL Member States of Dominica, to 2009, during which time he provided outgoing. He will be missed! (Submitted Jaycees Complex, Stoney

by ECTEL) quality technical advice on a broad Ground, Kingstown, 17 — 19 May Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and the range of issues that included: Licensing, 1991. He also led the SVGOC’s Grenadines from the late 1990s. In his Infrastructure Sharing, Quality of hosting of a Regional Sports

ECTEL pays tribute to Donnie De Freitas

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14. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Seven positive COVID19 cases among RCCL crew SOME 365 VINCENTIAN CREW MEMBERS from the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) arrived home last Tuesday, May 26, via M.V. Vision of the Seas.

However, none of the 356 was allowed to disembark. All 365 of them are to be tested for COVID-19, using rapid and PCR tests.

This action followed on determination by local health authorities that the crew members were of high risk, given the reports of the presence of known cases of COVID-19 on the ships of origin, and of other Crew members of this ship testing positive for COVID-19.

And as of Wednesday, May 27, 29 of those sailors had tested positive for COVID-19.

As of Thursday, May 28, the Health Services Committee reported that 7 of those cases had been confirmed as COVID-9 positive, as per PCR test results received from the Caribbean Public Health Agency — CARPHA.

These 7 positive cases were among a batch of 65 samples tested by CARPHA, and according to the (HSC), the remaining 58 samples showed negative results.

Two hundred and ninety-two PCR results remain outstanding for the RCCL crew members as of Thursday.

There are now 11 active cases of COVID-19 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A total of 25 COVID-19 cases have now been recorded to date, with 14 having recovered.

The HSC also confirmed that “RCCL Crew members who tested positive on rapid, but negative on PCR, will remain in a government approved quarantine facility, until a second PCR is conducted. Crew members who test negative for COVID-19 on both rapid and PCR will be allowed to disembark, to continue strict quarantine in approved private accommodations (their homes or

The Vision of the Seas cruise ship arrived in Kingstown with the largest single number of Vincentian sailors to date.

Inset: Seaman Travis Harry, Crew member of RCCL, was at the forefront of the struggle to get all Vincentian RCCL sailors home. privately rented apartments), when results for all crew members have been received.”

And during the time it would take for PCR tests to be conducted and the results returned, no sailor will be allowed to leave the ship.

Originally it was envisioned that most of the sailors would have disembarked by Thursday but that, according to one source, looks unlikely given the situation going into Wednesday evening.

Those RCCL sailors who returned on Tuesday, followed the return of twenty-five Vincentian sailors working with Disney Cruise who arrived in Port Kingstown on Wednesday 20th

May. Anticipation of the arrival of the Vision of The Seas was rife here as indication was that Vincentian Seaman Travis Harry was one of those returning home.

Harry, for all intents and purposes, with his live Facebook streaming, had been a ‘thorn in the side’ of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’, as it pertained to its handling of the situation surrounding Vincentian seamen and women, as the cruise industry was brought to a halt.

In a live Facebook stream on Wednesday, Harry pointed to extraordinary attention being paid to him by at least one police officer and health personnel.

Vincies encouraged to be counted stating that “if attendance at the Vincy Day USA picnic, which takes place in New York annually, is any THE BROOKLYNindication of the true size BASED ST. VINCENT of the Vincentian AND THE population, then the GRENADINES (SVG) Vincentian community Diaspora Committee of has likely been New York, Inc. on underestimated.”

Monday launched a According to Masonmassive campaign calling Haywood in 2017, the US on all Vincentian Census Bureau American nationals in the United Community Survey States to be counted in estimated that the the decennial US Census number of Vincentians in 2020. the US was about 24,000.

Sherrill-Ann MasonMason-Haywood said Haywood, Chairperson of the Diaspora Committee the SVG Diaspora is urging Vincentians, Committee, said that this and other immigrant year, the 2020 Census populations, “not to be will for the first time afraid of being counted, include a question that as there are no questions will allow census takers on the census that asks to identify their place of for citizenship status, origin. and there are federally“This is an excellent enforceable laws that opportunity for prohibit the sharing of Vincentians, also called individual information.

Vincies, to be counted,” “Census data is only said Mason-Haywood, shared in aggregate,” she Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

said, appealing to her compatriots to “show up and get counted on the census, so we can get the resources our communities deserve.”

To further encourage the counting of Vincentians in the US 2020 Census, MasonHaywood said Vincentians at the 2017 Vincy Picnic in Brooklyn, NY. There the SVG are an estimated 24,000 Vincentian living in the USA. Diaspora Committee of Heritage Month.

2020,” she added.

NY, Inc. is launching a Mason-Haywood noted “Trillions of dollars social media campaign while Census Day US in funding for everything that will feature was April 1, 2020, from child care, schools, Vincentian heads of Census activities have healthcare, affordable organizations and been extended to Oct. 31, housing, social benefits, prominent Vincentian 2020 due to the transportation and personalities on flyers. coronavirus (COVID-19) political representation The group will also pandemic. are determined based on host a Zoom Census “This means persons the Census count.

Panel Discussion in June still have the opportunity “An undercount means to coincide with to record their place of that less resources are Caribbean American residence on April 1, allocated to those

Sherrill-Ann MasonHaywood, Chair of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc. communities,” continued Mason-Haywood.

The Census 2020 survey comprises10 questions and can be completed online, via phone or by mail.

For more information, persons can go to https://.my2020census.go v or call 844-330-2020.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 15.

Donation

Rotary Club of St. Vincent donates to Frontline workers THE ROTARY CLUB of St. Vincent demonstrated its commitment to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by donating 2,500 masks at a ceremony held at the Grenadine House on Monday, May 25, 2020, in full observance of personal hygiene and physical distancing protocols.

Presentations of KN95 masks as well as nonsurgical grade masks were made to seven organisations where frontline workers serve on a daily basis. The Royal St. Vincent and the

Grenadines Police Force, The Customs and Excise Department, The Thompson Home, The Kingstown Town Board, The Ministry of Health – Public Health Workers including Sanitation Workers, The Lewis Punnett Home and the Vincentian Transportation Association, were all recipients of masks donated by the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, valued at EC$7,000.00.

Delivering brief remarks, President of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, Reuben John,

affirmed the Club’s commitment to service throughout our local community, and the mandate to provide continued meaningful support to the Vincentian citizens at a time such as this, as we work together to contain the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus.

Representatives of the various organisations in attendance expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club of St. Vincent, noting that the donation of masks was quite timely as existing

resources were low and the need for the masks will continue to be high especially as we learn to adjust to life amidst these new norms.

Commissioner of Police Collin John, on receipt of the packages for the RSVGPF, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Officers who are on the front line, working tirelessly to ensure the continued safety of our nation’s citizens. Other recipients present included Ms Leanna James, Deputy Comptroller of the

Commissioner of Police Colin John (left) accepts donation from Rotary Club of St. Vincent President Reuben John.

Customs and Excise The Rotary Club of St. Department; Mrs Vincent continues to Annelle Thomas, encourage all members of President of the the public to practise Thompson Home Board; proper personal hygiene, Mr Cuthbert Knights, observe public health Permanent Secretary in protocols, practise social the Ministry of Health, distancing and to act Wellness and responsibly as we work In St. Vincent and the approximately 450 prisoners, 140 Commissioner, St. Vincent and Environment; Mrs Ann together to contain the Grenadines, there have been no prison staff, and the general the Grenadines and Lt. Col. Williams and Mrs Annis spread of the COVID-19 confirmed COVID-19 cases in public will be at risk: potentially Michael Jones, Executive Director Daniel-Johnson of the virus. (Prepared by prisons. However, with an placing tremendous strain on the (Ag), CARICOM IMPACS, were at Kingstown Town Board Rotarian Janelle Allen, outbreak of COVID-19, the lives of public health system. the AIA to witness the delivery.

Director for Public on behalf of the local On Wednesday, 20 May, 2020, The supplies provided are in Image.)

Vendors. the CARICOM Implementation accordance with guidelines issued Agency for Crime and Security by the World Health Organization (IMPACS), with the generous (WHO) for the prevention and support of the British High control of the pandemic in prisons Commission, Port of Spain, (WHO 2020). CARICOM IMPACS’ through the British Government’s and the United Kingdom’s efforts Conflict, Stability and Security to prevent COVID-19.

Fund (CSSF), donated basic Infections in prisons will sanitation supplies to the St. continue next week with Vincent and the Grenadines donations of similar basic Prison Service, to help minimise sanitation supplies to eleven (11) the risk of infection and other CARICOM Member States. transmission of COVID-19 in CARICOM IMPACS has also prisons. partnered with the Regional The supplies, including infrared Security System (RSS), which Ventilators from Taiwan assigned to the Argyle thermometers, as well as cleaning continues to play a key role in Isolation Centre. products such as disinfectant, providing airlift and logistical liquid soap, bleach, hand support for the distribution of sanitizers and other necessary supplies to some Member States. supplies, were handed over to Mr. The donation of these supplies Brenton Charles, Superintendent will encourage and assist with the of Prisons, St. Vincent and the accelerated adoption of WHO THIS country’s capacity to fight the spread of the Part of the supplies received by Grenadines, at the Argyle guidelines for prisons and other coronavirus (COPVID-19) recently received a the Prisons (top) and the International Airport (AIA). Mr. places of detention. (Source: much needed boost. presentation party at the AIA. CARICOM IMPACS) Steve Moore, Resident British On Friday 22nd May, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) handed over a quantity of medical equipment and supplies to the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment.

This most recent donation included four ventilators, a thermal imaging device for recording the temperatures of persons arriving at the Argyle International Airport, and 60,000 medical masks.

MINIBUS drivers and 26.

The ventilators are for use at the Argyle conductors have little The masks were Isolation Centre and were, in fact, transported excuse for not ‘masking- handed over by recently there last Friday. up’ during this period of installed President of Minister of Health, etc. Luke Browne, on receiving the donation on behalf of the government threat by the novel Soroptimist Int’l SVG and people of SVG, expressed gratitude to Ms. Ikarmola Laborde, coronavirus.

Taiwan’s government and people for their and witnessed by her Their representative, continuing generosity.

Royron Adams — ViceVice-President Donette And perhaps in alluding to the fact that the President (Acting) of the O’Neil. ventilators might not be put to use any time soon, Royron Adams (right) accepts donation from Ms. Vincentian Transport The presentation was Minister Browne suggested that it was better to have the equipment and not use them, than to be Association (VINTAS), fittingly conducted at the Ikarmola Laborde in the presence of Donette in want and not have them. accepted on their behalf Bus Stop opposite the St. O’Neil.

Taiwan’s Ambassador H.E. Calvin Ho some 200 washable Vincent Cooperative VINCENTIAN spoke about the presentation highlighted that this was the second batch of masks as a donation Bank, Blue Caribbean supplies donated by his country in recent time, later that day to at least but he appreciated the from Soroptimist Int’s Building, Bay Street. and he promised there would be other shipments one minibus driver, he gesture on the part of in the near future.

SVG, last Tuesday, May When THE said he didn’t know “the ladies.”

Prisons get sanitation supplies

Taiwan donates medical equipment/supplies

Soroptimist donates masks

V Eight set for Corporate Public Speaking finals 16. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

People

Below: The eight finalists in the 2020 NCPSC.

THE NATIONAL CORPORATE PUBLIC SPEAKING CHAMPIONSHIP (NCPSC) held its semifinals virtually, on Saturday 23rd May 2020, adhering strictly to COVID-19 protocols enforced by the Ministry of Health here.

In addition to selecting eight participants for the June 27, 2020 finals, last Saturday’s event also honoured Ms. Desiree Richards, Managing Director of the Metrocint General Insurance Co. Ltd., Metrolife Agency Ltd., The Vincentian Publishing Co, Ltd., BOOM 106.9 FM and IKTV as the Championship’s first Patron, and in recognition of her contribution to building leadership, mentoring and advancing the role of the media in SVG. Those selected as finalists were: Terrece John, Coreas Distribution Ltd; Andreka Samuel, GECCU; Ruth Stowe, KCCU; Shaniese Cole, Massy

Stores; Aviar Charles, NIS; Sylvorn Lavia, RSGVPF; Elingford Roban Jr., SVGTA; and Nicolette Nichols, Treasury Department.

The other semifinalists were: Zekeo Audain representing Argyle International Airport; Geniene Browne representing CWSA; Terry Clarke representing KPMG; Ronika Boyd representing NTRC; Courtney Cumberbatch and Joanna Nwogu both representing Metrocint General Insurance Company Limited; and Jada Ross representing the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association.

Trackeish Davis of the Argyle International Airport (AIA) wrote herself into the history of the publicspeaking competitions here, when she won the inaugural SVG National Corporate Public Speaking Championship.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 17.

Arts

Young Vincentian student turns author

Kayla WilliamsSimmons is the latest addition to the literary landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

KAYLA Williams-Simmons is a past student of the Kingstown Preparatory School from which she placed 10th for girls at the introduction of the CPEA examination.

She entered the Girls’ High School as a GECCU Scholar and successfully pursued her CXC examinations.

She is now a first year science student of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College and finds the time to be an active Ranger Guide of the #14 Ranger Guide Company.

Those who follow closely the journey of our young scholars, will recall that un 2018, Kayla was the overall winner in the Upper Secondary School Engineering category in the VINLEC National Secondary School Science Fair, and was one of the few secondary school students to present her national award winning

science project to His Royal Highness Prince Charles in March of 2019.

Now, on the occasion of her 17th birthday, Kayla WilliamsSimmons, has just added “Author” to her list of accomplishments.

She recently released her first book, a collection of poems entitled: ‘The Lost Files:17@17.

Inspired by her mother Samantha V. Williams who is also a published writer, Kayla channelled her thoughts into this reflective piece on unrequited love, depression, suicide, loss; essentially the darker side of being a teen.

The young author needs no convincing that the issues confronting young people are important and worthy of serious attention, and would be the first to articulate that too often the real feelings/emotions experienced by young people like her, are often overlooked but are critical when looking holistically at today’s youth.

Kayla’s artwork is captured in her mother’s first children’s book, ‘I Am Me!’ which was inspired by her, and is featured in the first ever virtual edition of the Caribbean Literary Festival. Along with her younger brother Isaiah, she is also credited as a contributing author in her mother’s latest children’s book ‘You Can If You Try’.

Kayla has aspirations of pursuing tertiary level studies in Mechanical Engineering and Marine Biology, and encourages all young people to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

She asserts that discipline and determination are critical

to achieve the goals one has set for himself/herself, amidst the many obstacles that may arise.

She looks forward to sharing her latest project with the world and with her parents, close family and friends, who all

A must read especially by young people. express their joy in her latest accomplishment.

18. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A nagging wife Dear George, EVERY TIME my cell phone rings, my jealous wife thinks it’s another woman calling me. I even volunteered to do the shopping so as to limit her contact with others and keep her safe from the COVID-19, but she insists this is a ploy so I could meet the imaginary women I’m supposed to have.

Nothing I say to her has made her stop this nonsense, and it’s driving me nuts. I do not know why my wife thinks there is someone else in my life; but if she continues with this, I am going to go about my business.

Enough Dear Enough It is time to have a sit down with your wife. This will give her the

opportunity to say why she thinks you are cheating on her.

You, though, must assure her that you are not involved with anyone else, and would gladly do whatever it takes to put her mind at rest. Let her know she is free to have or answer your phone, if she so wishes. Give her the choice of doing most or all of the shopping. Even though she may not take you up on these offers, it will please her knowing you are making an effort to be transparent.

This will not be solved overnight.

Give it time.

George

Love or money?

Dear George, FOR YEARS, my girlfriend has crucified me for sleeping with another woman, a childhood friend.

A few weeks ago, she discovered that this same woman won some big money in the States and wanted to give me a good portion of it, which would pay off my mortgage and still have some left over. She asked me what I intended to do and I told her flat that to accept would be disrespectful to her.

What a surprise I got!

My girlfriend cursed me, called me “idiotic” and “spiteful” for not capitalizing on an opportunity to get us out of debt. I asked her if she was no longer concerned about me being involved with this woman. She replied, “As long as you don’t openly disrespect me.”

George, here is my soon to be wife willing to share me with another woman, all for the sake of money. The question is: What would she settle for if she had to choose between remaining faithful and jumping at bait dangling before her?

Disappointed Dear Disappointed, I can certainly see how this can reduce your level of confidence that you once had about your relationship.

It is the perfect time to re-evaluate your

relationship with your girlfriend. You need to know that she is with you for the right reasons and be sure of her total commitment to you and the relationship.

You, on the other hand, need to be absolutely sure that you are not sitting on the relationship fence. If you are not fully

committed to the relationship and are more and more convinced that life would be better elsewhere, then be honest with your girlfriend and tell her.

Each of you needs to be true to yourself for the overall good of the relationship.

George

Replaced by a dildo Dear George, AS A RESULT of this COVID-19 crisis, my wife and I have been spending more time together. However, she is not sleeping with me as before, even though she can use the excuses like “I’m tired” or “I had a hard day at work”. When I inquired about her coming up short, she simply dismissed me with, “Don’t be ridiculous”.

Three days ago, I heard her making sexual noises in the other room around 1am. When I checked on her, there she was with a dildo having the time of her life. The sad reality hit me like a thunderbolt: I had been replaced by a dildo.

We no longer have a relationship. Right now, we live like roommates and I say nothing to her. I am just waiting on the right time to release her legally so she can go and get married to her dildo.

Feeling like garbage Dear Feeling like garbage, Your wife may have had unresolved issues long before this COVID-19 crisis. The crisis only brought some of these to light.

It would be good to have a frank discussion on the state of your marriage and get to what is really chipping away at her happiness.

Sharing the same space but not talking to each other can create a stressful atmosphere, which in turn will elevate your level of frustration, make you an emotional time bomb.

If it is not possible for both of you to have a discussion, then invite someone who can professionally counsel both of you to work through the issues and get back to that place of marital bliss.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Try not to allow superiors or those in a higher position to take advantage of you.

You may find that your anger stems from lending or borrowing money. Good day for romance. Trips should be your choice.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel.

Try to convince a good friend to take a holiday with you. Put your energy into learning new skills or picking up valuable information.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You may find yourself in the midst of a pretty good deal. Business partnerships should turn out to be quite lucrative.

You may end up being blamed if anything goes wrong.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Opportunities for new friendships are apparent. You may need a good friend to lean on. You may find that female colleagues will be more help than you anticipated. You must be careful not to reveal secrets or get involved in gossip.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with. Travel opportunities should be your first choice. Legal matters that have been pending may be alleviated through compromise. Renovations to your domestic scene will pay high rewards.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You may find that depression is causing you to feel lonely and insecure.

Arguments could prevail. You may find that doing odd jobs around the house will be successful and appreciated by loved ones.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel.

You will meet new friends and enjoy a multitude of new activities. Do not let others exhaust you financially.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You should be putting your cash into long-term investments like real estate.

You will be emotional with regard to your personal life. Your partner will be emotionally unable to cope.

Misunderstandings at work could easily lead to your demise.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Take time to make physical improvements that will enhance your appearance. Be sure to take care of any minor ailments. Disruptions may set you back, but you’re strong, and in the end the choices you make will be favorable.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Opportunities to make money may interfere with your personal plans. Don’t count on getting any help from those you live with. You will back yourself into a corner if you are baited and your stubbornness will only make matters worse.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Opposition is present and you should be prepared to counteract it as best you can.

You may have to explain your actions to your family. Join groups of a humanitarian nature.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You don’t need to pay out in order to have fun. If it can make you extra cash, it will be even better. Take a second look; another person’s philosophy may be extremely different from yours.

ACROSS 1. Swift punch 4. Social slight 8. Humiliating blow 12. Employ 13. Brazil neighbor 14. Cozy locale 15. Dotted cube 16. Lease 17. Scandinavian destination 18. Tugged (on) 20. Gratuity 22. Congressional turndown 23. Vast water bodies 27. Dam disaster 30. One of several 31. Crow utterance 32. Sheep baby 33. That bull’s 34. Metropolis of 13-Across 35. High card 36. “Tiny” Dickens lad 37. Officer candidate 38. Magical spirits 40. Humble 41. Cat-treating doctor 42. Big Ben’s site 46. Furthermore 49. Cameo gem 51. Altar words 52. Yarn spinner 53. Italian capital 54. Marine distress call 55. Keyed up 56. Decade fraction 57. Bawl DOWN 1. Actress Garland 2. Bangladesh’s continent 3. Existed

4. Apply (jam) 5. Poor 6. Luncheon coffeepot 7. Shirt fasteners 8. Skiing area 9. Musical tones 10. Experience maladies 11. Debate position 19. Door opener 21. Far from hot 24. Caustic substance 25. Appellation 26. Whack (a fly) 27. National Banner 28. Delicate trim 29. Supernatural

sign 30. Object 33. Past events 34. Grassy yard 36. Golf-ball perch 37. Less warm 39. Tusk material 40. Alpaca relative

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 21.

43. Spinal-column component 44. Strong stench 45. Too curious 46. Pub brew 47. Jar cover 48. Lose firmness 50. Macabre writer

22. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 23.

Breakers lead VPL at halfway stage SALT BOND BREAKERS, with an unbeaten record, led the points standing at the halfway stage – Tuesday 26th May - of the T10 Vincy Premier League.

They stood top of the table with 10 points from 5 victories, 2 ahead of their closest rivals La Soufriere Hikers on 8 points from 4 wins and one loss.

The Botanical Gardens Rangers with 6 points occupied third spot at this stage, They had 3 wins and 2 losses.

Dark View Explorers followed on 4 points from 2 wins and 3 losses, to stay clear of Grenadines Divers on 2 points, from their one victory and 4 losses.

Fort Charlotte Strikers, yet to win a match, occupied the cellar position with no points.

In the fifth round of matches played last Tuesday, Salt Bond Breakers, La Soufriere Hikers and Botanic Gardens Rangers recorded wins.

Front-runners Salt Pond Breakers beat Dark View Explorers by 8 wickets. Dark View Explorers made 73 for 3 from 10 overs, with a top score of 32 coming from Shamon Hooper and 20 from Captain Lindon James. Sunil Ambris then hit an unbeaten 39 to lead the Breakers to 74 for 2 from 8 overs. Urel Thomas remained not out on 26.

La Soufriere Hikers dismissed Grenadines Divers by 10 runs. The Hikers put 98 for 4 from 10 overs on the scoreboard, Cosmus Hackshaw top scoring with an unbeaten 28 and Captain Desron Maloney getting 27

not out. Captain Asif Hooper was the pick of the Divers’ bowlers with figures of 3 for 19 from 2 overs. Drivers crumbled in their replay to finish on 88 for 6 in their 10 overs. Alex Samuel led the runs chase with 55.

In what was a highscoring match, Botanic Gardens Rangers held on to beat Fort Charlotte Strikers by 6 wickets. Rangers registered a formidable total of 101 for 2 from 10 overs, Asif Hooper – one of Kadir Nedd – one of five thanks to 44 not out by five who registered half half century makers up Sunil Ambris has the most runs, Hyron Shallow and 30 from centuries as of last to last Tuesday.

189 with one half century 75 not Oziko Williams. Strikers Tuesday. out, at the halfway stage. gave it their all in a spirited chase, to finish on 95 for 6 of 10 overs. Sealroy Williams top scored with 35 and Gidron Pope hit 25. Captain Keswick Williams took 2 for 18 from his 2 overs.

In terms of individual accolades as of Tuesday, Sunil Ambris was out front with the most runs,189, with his highest innings being 75 not out. He has a remarkable average of 94.5 and a strike rate of 165.79. Hyron Shallow has the second most runs, 138, with a 46 average Gidron Pope – also Alex Samuel – another and 151.65 strike rate. among the half century half century maker.

Gidron Pope follows next makers. with 127runs at an average Wesrick Straugh has taken the Breakers has of 25.4 and a strike rate of 130.93. most wickets as of last Tuesday. taken the most wickets, 9, so far.

Wesrick Staugh of Salt Pond Sealron Williams and Pond Breakers, 50 not out; Asif Deran Greaves of dark View Explorers Hooper, Grenadines Divers, 59 not out; and Gidron Pope, Fort Charlotte each has 7 wickets.

Strikers, 59 not out.

As of the end of The tournament is scheduled for Tuesday’s matches, the League had seen conclusion on Sunday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. five half centuries: Ambris, 75 not out I.B.A.ALLEN and Samuel, 56 as referenced earlier; Action in VPL 2020 Kadir Nedd, Salt

Shearman now a Personal Trainer VINCENTIAN SPRINTERKIMORIE SHEARMAN has attained the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) certification as a Personal Trainer, qualifying him to offer professional training services to healthy and medically cleared persons, anywhere in the world.

Shearman, currently pursuing studies at the Island University, New York, USA,

missed the passing grade the first time he sat the NASM exam achieved his goal when on re-sit.

He admits to not working hard enough then, but buoyed by his strong faith in God, he is meeting the challenge of balancing his full time attendance at university and maintaining his training regimen head on.

A former student of the St

Martin’s Secondary School, he has since adopted the tagline ‘Stay Up Fitness’ as he embarks on his career as a Personal Trainer.

In 2017, Shearman left St Vincent and the Grenadines to attend the Wiley College in Texas, USA. He moved to the Long Island University last year.

He has represented St Vincent and the Grenadines at

the regional and international levels, including participation in the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and 2018, held in Glasgow, Scotland and Gold Coast, Australia, respectively.

Right: Kimorie Shearman is a member of the Track and Field team of the IT DAT Academy.

V Goalkeepers being kept in check 24. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

LOCAL FOOTBALL tournaments and championships may have ground to a halt because of the COVUD-19 pandemic, but footballers throughout the state are being kept busy, whether through programmes emanating from the SVG Football Federation (SVGFF) or through their respective clubs.

And not excluded from this effort are the goalkeepers.

Kevin Richardson - National Goalkeeping Coach, said that he and his technical team have designed various programmes in an effort to keep goalkeepers in shape and motivated during this down period.

“Since all football activities were

suspended, the goalkeepers throughout the state have been provided with weekly training routines/programmes by the Technical Committee of the SVGFF,” Richardson told THE VINCENTIAN. These programmes are, in the main, personal training programmes that will help the players maintain and develop strength and stamina, Richardson explained.

“The goalkeepers are also sending regular updates back to the Technical Department, and the coaches in the communities are also doing check-ups especially on the national players including the goalkeepers,” the goalkeeping coach said.

He is pleased that the goalkeepers are enthused about the schedules and programmes, and while

King: „Players will benefit from VPL‰

CURTIS KING, retired Headmaster of the St. Vincent Grammar School and sports enthusiast, believes that the Vincy Premier League (VPL) will definite benefit those players who are involved.

King, himself an active Curtis King believes the VPL player in the being streamed live to India First Division and aired in other parts of the of the National world, will help to promote SVG Cricket as a tourist destination.

Championship, noted that while COVID-19 has led to the suspension of most cricket action around the world, the VPL is a wonderful opportunity.

“The VPL provides a great option to fill the void. It is great for cricket fans. Players will benefit greatly from this new competition. It will keep them engaged and put them in a state of readiness for the eventual resumption of the regional and international cricket schedule that includes the Windward Islands tournament, the CPL, the tour of England and the 2020 World Cup among others”.

He added, “Players also have an opportunity to earn some well needed finances. The matches will cover the wider audience by streaming in India.

This is a great marketing opportunity for SVG as it seeks to promote its tourism product. Local cricket fans will surely take advantage of the opportunity to gain some social and emotional excitement. All in all, this competition is a winwin for all the stakeholders.”

he admits there are challenges they will face from time to time, “most are responding positively and are adhering to the programme,” Richardson said with a tone of content.

And there are some positives that can come out of this period, Richardson believes.

“We can rebuild and start afresh; it gives us an opportunity to evaluate and put programmes, training workshops and courses in place for after COVID-19. This period will also cause individuals to develop a sense of commitment to individual training, help them to develop a mindset of adherence to following instructions, and self-assessment and

Kevin Richardson, National Goalkeeping Coach. evaluation,” Richardson proffered.

Richardson assured that the goalkeeping component of the overall Technical Department’s programme will continue to do its part in building this specialized area of the sport.

No spectators at the VPL TODAY is the second to last day of the inaugural Vincy Premier League (VPL), a T10 format that involved six local teams/ franchises.

The League got started last week Friday, May 22, and will run until Sunday, May 31.

All matches were played at One cricket fan told THE VINCENTIAN empty stands at the Arnos the Arnos Vale Playing Field, Vale Playing Field is nothing new even for regional matches. with three matches, the first beginning at 8:30am, scheduled A comprehensive VPL COVID-19 Protocol was in for each day of the League. place for the tournament, to which the players and But while the League was streamed live to an all other parties involved physically at the venue estimated 100 million persons in India, home of adhered. major sponsors DREAM11, and aired on Sportsmax Meanwhile, at least one electronic media house and VC3, matches here were played behind closed here has quoted Shallow as saying that the VPL doors, i.e. no spectators!!

T10 franchise has already begun to attract interest According to the SVGCA, “the advice to not have from purchasers/investors. spectators at the venue was given to the coordinator Without any further, direct comment to that of the tournament, SVGCA, by the National COVIDdevelopment, Shallow assured however, that plans 19 Taskforce.” are to make the VPL an annual affair.

President of the SVGCA Inc., Dr. Kishore Shallow, is reported to have explained that the Stories by I.B.A.ALLEN decision was based on consultation with the technical committee.

“The SVGCA would have preferred an option of a limited number of spectators, maybe 300 or 500 max in the stadium; however, the experts expressed some initial concerns and advised that we attempt to regularize the management of players before we consider having spectators,” Shallow elaborated in a statement issued by the SVGCA. Shallow expressed understanding of the local fans’ frustration, but noted, “I appreciate the preference of Taskforce that out of an abundance of caution, they do not want to encourage social gatherings. At the end of the day, our safety and wellbeing are of paramount importance.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 25.

Sports

Cyclists return to the road in Time Trial LOCAL CYCLISTS returned to some level of competition when the St.Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union staged a Time Trial last Sunday morning.

The SVG Cycling Union has moved to keep cyclists in The training and competition ready during the layoff in cyclists rode sporting activities here. (Photo: SVGCU Facebook Page) off from the Sol Gas 11 minutes 05.9 seconds.

Station in Arnos Vale to the Oscar Curtis Lewis was the other Machine Centre in Belair, covering competitor, who completed the a distance of 2.6 miles. course. He did so in 11 minutes Registering the fastest time was 50.78 seconds.

Zefal Bailey; he clocked seven Sunday’s Time Trial was staged minutes 03.99 seconds. to keep local cyclists fit and Second to Bailey was Albert competition ready during the Quammie in eight minutes 01.87 current COVID-19 pandemic. seconds, and third was Sherwyn Before last Sunday’s Time Trial, James, clocking eight minutes the SVG Cycling Union’s previous 17.78 seconds. event was held Sunday 8th March.

Docking in fourth was Orel Cyclists will return to the same George (10 minutes 18.51 seconds), route this Sunday morning, for with Rivas Young in fifth place in another Time Trial.

Morgan to use certification to good effect TECHNICAL DIRECTOR of Chester Morgan is committed to use Team Athletics SVG — Chester his knowledge to Morgan, plans to use his help develop track certification as a Level Three and field in SVG. Coach in Endurance Training, to serve the sport here in good stead.

Morgan was among over 50 coaches who participated in an IAAF Elite Coaches Course in Endurance Training, staged at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, USA. He gained a distinction, earning a total of 98 points up a maximum 100.

After completing the training in the USA, A certificate of which Chester Morgan, as a required Morgan is justly proud. practicum, had to conduct a sixmonth Periodisation Training with an athlete. He chose upcoming months course, has already been in distance athlete Ashanti Richards use.” as his subject.

Morgan, who is also the Head The work with Richards, Coach of the Central Leeward inclusive of videos and her meet Secondary School Track and Field results, had to be submitted to the team and the High Performance course assessors.

Club, noting that he is seeing Reflecting on his new results from his new knowledge, achievement, Morgan noted: “It is a committed to “continuing to use special feeling because it was a this knowledge to better my challenge… Gaining a distinction is athletes and also share it with my always special. …. . The knowledge fellow coaches.” that I have gained from this six

WEST INDIES CRICKET IN FOCUS Possible W.I. tour of England this year THERE IS OPTIMISM in cricket administrative circles both in England and the West Indies, that a West Indies senior men’s team could still tour England this year, for a full Test Series.

Last week, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said that representatives from England and Cricket West Indies (CWI) had been involved in “positive ongoing discussions” about rescheduling their forthcoming series.

Originally, the W.I were due to arrive in England this month, May, ahead of a three-Test series to be played between June 4 and 29. This and all other International series as well as local first class competitions in ICC member countries, were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There was some indication from CWI circles that the WI tour of England would be re-scheduled for July, but this would have clashed with England’s Hundred Ball Competition.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago television/radio cricket commentator Ian Bishop has expressed the opinion that it would be in the best financial interest of Cricket West Indies (CWI) and regional players, to take up the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) offer of the three-Test series in the United Kingdom this July.

He cautioned, though, that he would expect the two governing bodies (ECB and CWI) would go ahead with the series, only if effective protocols were agreed to mitigate the COVID-19 threat.

In this regard, Bishop could have been alluding to matches having to be played at “bio-secure” facilities, and that teams would have to adhere to strict isolation, quarantine protocols during the series.

that point, Nanthan said, that he offered to allow the sponsorship funds for the Dominica Cricket Academy to go through Cricket West Indies, so that the funds could be used to help host the tournament.

Nanthan, for his part, vehemently denied there was anything “underhand” about the transaction, and said there had been documentation at every stage to guide the process.

All’s well that ends well, Nanthan quipped, since the money was subsequently returned to the DCA which in due course, used it for development purposes.

Nanthan served as CWI vicepresident for three terms until last year March

Cameron’s lawyers get busy

Barbados Today reported this week that Tony Astaphan SC, attorney-at-law for former Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Dave Cameron, has taken exception to the appearance of what he termed a diminished sense of “collective responsibility”, with respect to accusations levelled against his client in a recent audit report.

The financial report, which singled out Cameron for criticism on several occasions, was commissioned by the current CWI Board and conducted by independent auditors Pannell Kerr Foster (PKF). Among other things, it raised concerns regarding an inadequate accounting system that enabled financial irregularities to go unreported.”

According to the Barbados Today report, Cameron’s legal team has already requested a copy of the contentious document, which was leaked and made good use of in the public sphere by the likes of television/radio Nanthan refutes allegations of commentator Michael Holding. impropriety “If the auditor is in fact making soDominican Emmanuel Nanthan, called findings on matters that were former Vice-President of Cricket West dealt with by the board and they are so Indies (CWI) has refuted allegations of concerned about irregularities and financial impropriety surrounding abuses; the directors, including the US$134, 200.00 that was earmarked for present ones, from top to bottom, are cricket development in Dominica, but going to have to come forward and which was transferred to Cricket West explain their votes to the region and the Indies, two years ago. shareholders,” Astaphan is quoted as Questions over the source and use of saying on the Mason and Guest radio the monies were allegedly raised in an show aired weekly on CBC Radio, audit commissioned by the current Barbados.

Board of CWO. Astaphan was adamant that, “You Leaked extracts from that report can’t just decide to throw one man pointed to the auditors being unable to overboard and say well there goes find “an executed agreement” for the Cameron swimming down the lagoon transaction; that “there was no again. Collective responsibility is very evidence” CWI had verified with the importan.”

Dominica Cricket Association (DCA) The lawyer strongly rejected the that the monies “were used as directed”. notion that the board members were But Nanthan, since the leak, has refuted the allegations, while admitting bullied into voting by the former that the monies had been meant for the president, as was previously suggested.

“There is an implication that there Dominica Cricket Association to fund its was this and that but everyone went Cricket Academy, but were transferred along with Dave Cameron like the pied to the CWI to help the cash-strapped piper and the rats into the pond,” regional governing body stage the Regional Super50 Cup. Astaphan added.

Nanthan revealed that at a meeting Last week in a letter sent to attorneyheld in September 2018, the CWI Board at-law Loy Weste who is also acting on decided it would have to cancel the behalf of Cameron, CWI chief executive regional one-day tournament if it could officer Johnny Grave said the former not procure adequate funds within that CWI president was not entitled to a copy week. of the report, despite the allegations Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago contained in the report and to which were requested to assist, and it was at Cameron sought to respond.

26. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020. 27.

Classifieds

TURNEL JEHORIM BLUCHER

TITUS PRINCE

Langley Park Church of Christ Georgetown Sunday, 24th May, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

New grounds S.D.A Church Sunday, 24th May, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: San Souci Cemetery

MARTIN NANTON aka JAPAN Sandy Bay Gospel Chapel Sunday, 24th May, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: London Cemetery

GRAFTON BERTRAM SLACK

CEYON QUASHIE Ebenezer S.D.A Church Bellevue Sunday, 24th May, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery

CARNET GOULD Kingdom Life Ministries Keartons, Barrouallie Sunday, 24th May, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Apostolic Faith Mission Church Campden Park Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 12:00 noon Interment: Troumaca Cemetery

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FRIDAY MAY

29, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.22

PRISON OFFICER TO SUE

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Kenson King was detained by police for more than 24 hours then released without charge.

THIRTY-THREE-YEAR-OLD Prison Officer Kenson King of Park Hill was arrested last Friday for what he said was a Facebook post that was “liable to cause fear and alarm to the public,” and perhaps for having violated unspecified elements of the Cyber Crime Act of 2016.

He was released from police custody after 8 p.m. on Saturday with no formal charges filed against him.

On Wednesday, King told THE VINCENTIAN, “We have decided to go forward with litigation, yes. We are going to bring a case technically against the entire system,” i.e. in which the State will be the defendant.

Jomo Thomas, King’s lawyer, confirmed that legal

action was imminent.

“A notice of intent would be served on the police and the Attorney General,” Thomas said, describing it as the next step in what he is confident would be another legal victory for human rights here.

He added, “The Court would decide. I will never encourage a client to sue if I don’t think he has a relatively good chance of a favorable outcome.”

Thomas is reported elsewhere as saying, “The police have a legal responsibility to tell the accused person why he is detained as soon as possible by 24 hours of the arrest. The law also requires the authorities to take the accused and charged

Attorney Jomo Thomas, who has been making it a habit of sorts in winning human rights –related cases, is confident about the King case.

person before a legal tribunal within 48 hours or as soon as is responsibly possible. Sadly, until now, the police mock the law and hold suspects for up to 48 hours and then release them with no charge. It must be remembered that someone can only be arrested on the basis of probable cause of having committed an offense.

We know of no crime Kenson King has committed and he has not been charged.”

King’s legal troubles sprouted after he took to

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

to personally give him a warning in 2015….. .

“The police came and confiscated the guns. Now this morning, Haniffe can have the guns, firing shots in the air and bragging that he called Ralph and Ralph called the Colonaire Police Station and threatened them, asking them if they gave licence for guns to Hanniffe.”

When asked whether or not the post was intended to name the Prime Minister, King responded, “I never admitted to making the post, but the post that is there obviously alleges that is Ralph Facebook to vent about an Gonsalves the post is talking ongoing domestic dispute about, because who other involving an uncle and the Ralph would have the kind of uncle’s siblings. clout to call the Station to tell A May 15 post protested the police to give back the alleged interference in Police guns to someone else.” procedure as it applied to On Wednesday King said licensed gun holders. It read, that Haniffe “was still “See when I speak about behaving with his nonsense,” Ralph all yo does vex. Now, I brandishing guns as of have an uncle named Saturday morning while King Mohammed King. Some know was being held at the Criminal him as Hanniffe. He has two Investigations Department. licensed firearms. He keeps on terrorizing his brothers. I had jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.