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FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 04, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.36

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

NO GANJA EUSTACE DESTROYED TAKING LEGAL UNDER ACTION ULP Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA

Arnhim Eustace, Leader of the Opposition, claims that there could well be certain discrepancies with respect to persons being transferred into different constituencies.

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION, Arnhim Eustace, on Monday, released the first set of names of persons who he claims have been registered to vote in The first phase of an exercise to sanitise the East Kingstown, but Voters List was recently concluded here. are not residents of that constituency. as clearly being registered to vote, The names of six individuals but are alleged not to reside in the were revealed by Eustace on location that is stated.

Monday’s edition of the ‘New “[I] already met with legal Times’ radio programme and, counsel last Friday to begin legal according to the opposition leader, prosecution, including (against) they have been transferred “under the registration officer. doubtful circumstances.”

“We are not going to take this In addition to the individuals matter of violating the rules names, Eustace disclosed their lightly or breaking the law,” current addresses, occupations, Eustace said. voter ID numbers, polling stations He continued, saying that he at which they are registered to was tired of the deception, as it vote and comments qualified them went against the norms for free as being suspicious. and fair elections.

And based on the comments, these individuals were identified Continued on Page 3.

GOV’T SEE STORY ON PAGE 3.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was adamant that no ganja was destroyed under the watch of the ULP administration.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines was considered by some ‘experts’ as one of the largest, if not the largest per capita cultivator and exporter of ganja in the world. (Phot Credit: Kevin Edmonds.

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2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Country Manager John Gidharry, Marketing Executive Danielle Cupid and Mobile Advertising Executive Melecia Abbott loading boxes onto the Barbados Coast Guard vessel. Commercial Manager Dionne Emtage assists officers with inventory.

DIGICEL donates to Dominica

ON TUESDAY, September 1, 2015, the staff of Digicel St.Vincent showed their support for the people of Dominica with thousands of dollars’ worth of food items, toiletries and other necessities.

Staff pledged their donations in house, and proceeded to purchase much needed items at C.K Greaves.

Partnering with the Barbados Coast Guard, the staff of Digiciel

met at the Cruise Ship Terminal just after dawn, to meet the Leonard C. Banfield Coast Guard vessel to load relief items.

These items are set to Digicel vehicles delivering goods to be delivered to Dominica on Tuesday Barbados Coast Guard at 7am. evening. already launched several “We hope that our gesture activities, as we have already will supply some of the much arranged and booked shipping needed support for our across to Dominica over the next Dominican sisters and brothers in this few days.”

Digicel is committed to unfortunate providing community outreach situation. We have supplied goods that both locally and across the region, and it encourages will assist Dominican families Vincentians to be a part of the activities which it haslaunched with a variety of to provide much needed food items, assistance such as donating medicine, water, nonperishable items, clothing or hygiene and grooming supplies,” water. Collection bins were said John Gidharry, stationed in each store across Country Manager of St. Vincent and The Grenadines.

In addition, persons can also Digicel St. Vincent. assist by texting “In the coming weeks, Vincentians #DonatetoDominica to 5151. All will see many more proceeds will be forwarded to Dominica, with Digicel matching initiatives from Digicel, as we have the value of funds collected.

Judy Boucher honoured ONE OF ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines internationally renowned love and country music recording and performing artistes, Judy Boucher, has been recognized for Judy Boucher was presented with her contribution to a plaque by Arden Tannis, to country music recognize her contribution to the in St. Vincent promotion of country music in SVG. and the Grenadines.

The honour was bestowed on Boucher by the Classic Country Music Club, on August 29th. 2015, during a ceremony held at Ruby’s Restaurant and Bar in Kingstown.

The ceremony also marked the official launch of the club.

Arden C Tannis, the Club’s CEO, presented Boucher with a plaque on behalf of the organization.

On receiving the plaque, she commended the organizers for bringing the idea of such a club to fruition, after which she delighted the crowd with a rendition of a few of her more popular songs.

Allan Smith and Family Bakery was also recognized for its support of country music by way of its sponsorship of Sunday Classic on WE FM 99.9.

The Classic Country Music Club (CCMC) is an organization of and for country music fans. Its aim is to promote country music throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and provide a safe environment where persons can experience the joy of dancing.

Tannis, one of the forces driving country music in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, reported that the launch was a success. He said, “The launch was really a sampling of what the Club’s regular monthly meeting called ‘The Ranch’. It involved a regular karaoke session, a popularity karaoke contest for members that like competition, and a final session when the floor is cleared for dancing.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 3.

News 3

Relatives not PS confirms pleased passport allegation not true that Mangal, a Nigerian businessman, was issued THE PERMANENT a Vincentian passport in SECRETARY in the Ministry exchange for cash of National Security, payment of US$75,000.

Godfred Pompey, has But Pompey said that denied claims that the article was Nigerian national, Alhaji disjointed, and that the Dahiru Barau Mangal, was author received issued a Vincentian information from passport. “deficient sources.”

In an article which He referred THE appeared in an online VINCENTIAN, in a media site, ‘Caribbean telephone interview, to a News Now’, it was statement issued by alleged that confidential Beverly Walker, Chief sources have reported Immigration Officer (Ag), in which she stated that there was no evidence to prove that Mangal had purchased a Vincentian passport.

Pompey said that the information was unknown to the authorities at the Ministry of National Mobilisation.

He further stated that all passport applications must come to his office for final verification – to ensure that the applicant is entitled to receive a Alhaji Dahiru Barao passport.

Mangal, the Nigerian Mangal is a multinational at the centre of billionaire businessman the allegation.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

Eustace taking legal action Continued from Front Page.

“And today I am starting a process which I will continue regularly to bring to the public’s attention the names (of) persons who are violating the election laws, especially those that govern transfers,” Eustace said.

He added that the New Democratic Party (NDP) will continue to find out who these individuals are and will continue to take the necessary legal action against the individuals, and the registering officer.

There were teams set up on the ground in the various constituencies, Eustace explained, and those teams would be examining the persons who have been transferred in.

He disclosed that there were 650 new entrants so far in his constituency of East Kingstown, and as of February, 238 were those that had been transferred in.

Similarly, Eustace said that the numbers for South Leeward were higher than that of East Kingstown, exceeding 800 new entrants in that constituency.

It was assumed, Eustace said, that for those persons who moved and are now living in a new constituency, that their names have been removed from the old one.

When contacted for a comment on the matter, however, the Deputy Supervisor of Elections, Sylvester King, said that he was unable to do so, as the office had not received any official correspondence in relation to the matter.

Supervisor of Elections, Sylvia Findlay, is currently on leave.

in his native Nigeria, this based on online reports.

He serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the AFDIN group of companies which include airline Max Airways, and the AFDIN group of companies, Massanawa Enterprises and Massanawa Oil. However, there is another side to Mangal, in that one online source has alleged that his wealth is linked to him being one of the top smugglers of petroleum products across borders within Africa.

Pompey, meantime, reaffirmed the government’s policy of not selling passports.

“The Prime Minister has said that he was not going down the line of economic citizenship,” the PS said.

With regard to border security, Pompey said that Nigerians require a visa to travel to St Vincent and the Grenadines.

And this is done through the office of the

Godfred Pompey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, as much as confirmed that no documentation about a passport being applied for by or being issued to Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal had passed his desk. permanent secretary where the relevant checks – local and international – are made.

In addition, the release issued by the acting Chief Immigration Officer stated that the records at the Border Management System indicate that Mangal never entered the country through any of the ports.

RELATIVES OF GARVET FOSTER, the man who was gunned down Tuesday night, September 1, have taken issue with the choice of photographs displayed in the media, following the man’s death.

The 33-year-old man died after being shot multiple times a short distance from his home in Green Hill, and the photo that was posted on at least one online media site showed the young Garvet Foster man posing with a gun, succumbed to multiple rounds of ammunition gunshots last Tuesday spread out on a bag and a lit marijuana cigarette night. clenched between his lips.

The photograph was lifted from the deceased man’s Facebook page.

Girlfriend of three years, Kenisha Patterson, told THE VINCENTIAN that not because he posted a photograph with a gun, meant that he was a bad individual.

“Everybody have their favourites whether they like guns, they like to smoke or they like to party,” Patterson said.

She described Foster as a kind, generous person.

“He was the person to ensure that everything was well put together.”

She said that he paid attention to her and her children’s needs, and that of his family, and that he was a very straightforward person.

Mother, Hazel Foster, further said that she believed that the photograph would have led the general public to have a negative opinion of her son.

She did not add much, only to say that she was leaving the act “up to the Hands of God.” “I leaving it so, I already forgive the person – whoever did it,” she said.

Police investigations are on-going. (DDD)

No ganja destroyed under ULP gov’t From Front Page.

OPERATION ‘VINCY PAC’, mounted here in 2009, was necessary in order to rid the hills of foreign criminal elements, but the current administration has never sought the assistance of the United States to destroy marijuana here.

So said Prime Minister and Political Leader of the Unity Labour Party, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, while addressing a political rally at the Sharpes Playing Field, Chateaubelair, last Sunday.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, he was aware that because of what occurred back in 2009, there were some who believed that he was “too hard on the ganja man.”

The exercise took regional and local law

enforcement officers into the hills, but none of the crop was destroyed, Dr. Gonsalves told supporters.

“What we wanted to do is that the foreigners that were up there, [we wanted] for them to come down,” he said.

That is what was done, and by doing that, the foreigners came down, Dr. Gonsalves continued.

That exercise accounted for the deaths of Barbadian Dwayne O’Brien, who was wanted for murder in his homeland, and Vincentians Brezen Frederick and Ashborn Nickie, and the arrest of a St Lucian national.

Dr. Gonsalves told the crowd gathered in the North Leeward end of the country – prominent for its marijuana cultivation – that when

the ULP came to office in 2001, he was approached by personnel from the US Embassy in Barbados, who enquired of him whether the US would be allowed to come in to destroy the marijuana, as was previously arranged with then Prime Minister, Arnhim Eustace.

“I said, ‘Your Excellency, I have just come to office, I don’t even know the geography of my office well; you talking to me about bringing helicopters’.”

He continued: “And I wrote to him and told him I want to know the nature of the chemical substance which they were using and damage which they created. I wanted them to give compensation for the damage.”

The response, according to Gonsalves,

stated that the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines owed the United States for the last time that they had come to eradicate marijuana.

But Gonsalves said that he ignored the bill.

“I want you to reflect.

Since I have been in office for the last 14 and a half years, not one single American helicopter has come here to spray ganja,” Gonsalves said.

The Prime Minister also reminded those gathered that it was the ULP-led administration that asked for the establishment of the Caribbean Marijuana Commission, to which, he added, this country has appointed retired High Court Judge Frederick Bruce-Lyle and Kishore Shallow as its representatives.

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4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Police Force prepares for accreditation status

of transforming member states’ police organizations into contemporary and relevant institutions, TWO HIGH RANKING police officers here have described designed to meet the needs of all stakeholders. It is the Regional Security System (RSS) Police Law aimed at providing police organizations with a body Enforcement Accreditation Programme as an excellent of professional and internationally recognized move for the advancement of police organizations in standards that formalize essential management the region. procedures, as well as promoting efficient use of Deputy Commissioner Reynold Hadaway and resources and improved service delivery.

Assistant Commissioner Frankie Joseph expressed The member states are Dominica, Antigua, St. the view while speaking to THE VINCENTIAN this Lucia, Grenada, Barbados, St. Kitts/Nevis and St. week, about the significance of an exercise on which Vincent and the Grenadines.

Both Deputy Commissioner Reynold Hadaway the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police So far, the Barbados Police Force is the only l(eft) and Assistant Commissioner Frankie Joseph Force (RSVGP) embarked to attain accreditation police organization in the entire Caribbean to be expressed enthusiastic support for the move to status. accredited, having attained that status since 1997. attain accreditation for the local Police Force.

The RSS Police Law Enforcement Accreditation A wide cross section of police personnel, selected Programme was discussed during a meeting held at members of government departments, exercise, where we, as a law enforcement agency, the Police Canteen Conference Hall last Friday, representatives of non-governmental organizations are voluntarily demonstrating to all stakeholders August 28, commencing the process of law and the media attended last Friday’s meeting, that we are prepared to meet an accepted set of enforcement standardisation here. during which Executive Director and Accreditation The programme entails the process or processes Manager of RSS, Bertie Hinds of Barbados, made a professional standards”.

In his remarks, Hadaway declared, “Globally, presentation. there is a growing need to professionalize law Hadaway told THE VINCENTIAN that the enforcement. There is also a need to access more accreditation team of the RSVG Police Force is training as we endeavour to ensure that public looking at the Barbados accreditation model, but safety is not undermined. will write their own standards on every aspect of “Today, as we look at the concept of accreditation, policing, which will be discussed at all levels within we are sending a message to the people of St. the constabulary before being presented to an Vincent and the Grenadines and the region; we are accreditation board for approval and endorsement.

DEFENCE lawyer Grant Connell has called for saying that we recognize that there is need for Hinds would be visiting the state from time to this country’s Drug Act to be reviewed. drastic changes in the way we conduct business. We time to see how the exercise is progressing.

Connell described the Act as being “harsh,” Joseph, who heads the Accreditation Committee, are telling our people that we are prepared to offer adding that the drafters were at variance with to them a professional service. We are saying that told THE VINCENTIAN that accreditation would reality, especially as it related to the issue of we will establish guidelines to inform our every lift the level of productivity within the local marijuana in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. action”. constabulary, hold members accountable on every Connell’s comments came on Tuesday at the Both Hadaway and Joseph are of the view that aspect of policing, and improve the standard of Kingstown Magistrate’s Court while mitigating on the process would not be an overnight exercise. policing generally. behalf of his client Kyle Small, 22, of Green Hill, Hadaway told THE VINCENTIAN that it may In delivering remarks at last Friday’s meeting, he who had pleaded guilty to three marijuana require extensive and in depth research, as well as described the historic occasion as, “a watershed charges. amendments to the existing Police Act. He, however, moment in the delivery of policing services in St. He was charged with possession of 6,461 grams believes that after the exercise is completed and the Vincent and the Grenadines”.

He told participants, of marijuana for the purpose of drug trafficking, “I am happy to inform you that your deliberation is standards are implemented, the public would have a possession of the drug for the purpose of better and clearer understanding of the functions of one of the first steps in this most important exportation, and possession with intent to supply. the police.

The charges stemmed from a police action at the E.T. Joshua Airport August 27.

Connell requested a non-custodial sentence stating that his client had walked the straight and narrow for 21 years, and to send him to jail at this GONE ARE THE DAYS when the world where juncture would create a hardened criminal. He concept of policing was “We vs change is noted that the Act provides for a fine. them.” catapulting. Every “Your Honour, the hills are full of it Bertie Hinds, Deputy Executive day is change. (marijuana), and many other cases of this nature Director and Accreditation “What are we would come before your honourable court. We Manager of the Regional Security grappling with System (RSS) made this clear now? Money simply cannot afford, as a nation, to fill our jails while addressing a meeting held laundering, with those who plead guilty or are found guilty of at the Police Canteen Conference human trafficking, offences of this nature. There must be alternative Hall last Friday, August 28, to the scourge of the sentences,” Connell told Magistrate Carla James. discuss the RSS Police Law drug trade, cyberHe insisted that the jail is for hardened Enforcement Accreditation crime,” Hinds said. criminals, noting that his client is 22, is a first Programme and commence the “Your time offender and had no previous convictions. process here. organisation must Connell suggested a fine, saying that, “We need “You have to embrace the have a vision. If the money; there are institutions to build and bills public, the public must be fully you don’t have a to pay, including salaries.”

Bertie Hinds, Deputy Executive Director and involved. That is the idea of vision, you are The lawyer declared, “We have to stop this Accreditation Manager of the RRS, addressing modern policing,” the Barbadian going to retard the hypocrisy”. the meeting that discussed the RSS Police Law native underscored. organisation and But Magistrate James opted for a custodial The former Deputy the people in it. If Enforcement Accreditation Programme. sentence.

Commissioner of the Barbados you don’t have a Small was sentenced to 12 months in prison on Police Force explained that the vision, you must have a mission to police forces in member states. the charge of possession of the drug for the The precursor to this sanction old concept of “We vs them” achieve that vision.” purpose of drug trafficking, 12 months for resulted in the public’s lack of Hinds pointed out that greater by the Council of Ministers was a meeting of the RSS security chiefs possession for the purpose of exportation, and 6 confidence in the police. emphasis must be placed on in Barbados on September 26, months for possession with intent to supply. The He emphasized the relation Human Rights issues, 2014. Here, by unanimous sentences will run concurrently. between the police and the public accountability, transparency, resolution after discussion, an Small was at the E.T.Joshua Airport awaiting a as critical to the advancement of greater productivity, human agreement was reached that the flight to Barbados on August 27 when police, police organizations, and for them resource development, clarity in programme was desirable, and a acting on information received, intercepted him. to better police their respective mission, vision and philosophy. necessary strategic undertaking Thirteen taped packages were found between a countries.

The RSS Council of Ministers at this juncture of Police Law few pieces of clothing during a search of his Hinds noted that that is why at their meeting at Bridgetown, Enforcement in member states. they saw it fit to invite members Barbados, March 27, 2015, by suitcase. When the packages were open, the The Royal Barbados Police of the public and the media to resolution, approved the marijuana was revealed. come and participate at the commencement and pursuit of the Force is already an Several countries worldwide have been internationally accredited session last Friday.

RSS Law Enforcement revisiting their drug laws with regard to “You are policing in a modern Accreditation Programme for the organization, having attained that possession and use of marijuana. status in 1997.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Lawyer wants Drug Act reviewed

Gone are the days of „We vs them‰

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 5.

Regional

Crop Over: A Synergy of BajanTrini elements WHILE ON ONE HAND Barbados Tourism officials have reported an overall trend of decreasing numbers of Trinidadians visiting that country, on the other, they acknowledge that the Crop Over Festival was still a major draw for T&T nationals travelling to Barbados.

“In 2014, Crop Over generated BDS$96 million.

Unfortunately, the Vicky Chandler, Director for Trinidad expenditure Caribbean and Latin numbers are American Region at captured under the Barbados Tourism Caricom head count.

Marketing Inc,, recognises However, in 2014, the bonds that exist CARICOM nationals between T&T and Barbados spent on average USD$181.84, ranking beyond the party element of Crop Over. (Photo: Internet) them as higher spenders on average linkages between our than visitors from the culture ministry and your United States and ministry of the Arts and Canada for that period,” Vicky Chandler, Director Multiculturalism.”

According to Chandler, for Caribbean and Latin the festival was more American Region at than just the Carnival, Barbados Tourism and she explained that Marketing Inc, told the the Carnival aspect is a Trinidad Guardian. much larger event which “This year, like the spans three months and past several years, we focuses on history and have seen an increase in heritage. the synergies and “When it comes to the collaborations between private sector Barbadian party element and the actual Carnival, the companies and T&T companies, as well as our bonds are closer. We have

Officials of CIBC FCIB in Antigua are warning customers to be on the lookout for scams by unscrupulous persons.

Bank scam alert

A typical example of Trinidadians’ involvement and investment in Crop Over. lots of companies from Barbados that are involved in events at Carnival (in T&T), and likewise I believe there are several T&T companies that are involved in our Crop Over Festival. At the end of the day, we cannot be static with what we do. You may as well lie down and die! Everything has to evolve, and we look at the synergies and maximize the positives in it all.”

She added: “I think the synergies will continue to grow and the collaborations whether it is our musicians being part of your Carnival. We had Machel (Montano)

here leading an entire section in a mas band.

There is nothing wrong with it. It’s a natural evolution of how people interrelate and play together,” she continued.

Chandler cites the partnerships as being good for the region, and expressed surprise it didn’t happen sooner. “If it is working, then there is a reason for that. There is a demand for it. It will reach the point naturally when it is enough or it has to evolve again. T&T is the number one market for visitors to Barbados regionally,” she said.

(Trinidad Guardian)

OFFICIALS AT CIBC First Caribbean International Bank (CIBC FCIB), St. John’s Antigua, are warning customers to beware of what appears to be the country’s latest phishing scam.

According to the Antigua Observer of Monday 1st September, ‘at least one resident has reported a fraudulent email coming from CIBC First Caribbean International Bank’.

The email, as per the Observer’s report, ‘informs recipients that they’ve won a reward from the bank and then requests various personal information before the reward can be claimed’.

Scams such as this one have risen in popularity in recent years, as the use of credit cards online became more and more popular. Phishing is an email fraud method in which the perpetrator sends out an email that looks legitimate in an attempt to gather personal and financial information from recipients.

Scams like these have grown in popularity with the recent increased use of credit cards to conduct business online.

While CIBC FCIB is yet to issue an official statement on the recent reported scam, representatives from First Caribbean International Bank are urging those in receipt of the fraudulent email to forward the contact to the bank at fraud@cibcfcib.com.

The messages usually appear to have come from reputable establishments or well-known, trustworthy websites.

Phishing scams have also been reported on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook as well as messaging applications like Whatsapp and Skype. (Source: Antigua Observer)

Antigua and Barbuda: Ready to accept CCJ as final appeal court ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA has set the wheels in motion towards making the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that country’s final court of appeal.

That process was set apace, August 14, 2015, when Prime Minister Gaston Browne and leader of the opposition United Progressive Party, Baldwin Spencer, in the presence of Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda Sir Rodney Williams, signed a memorandum of understanding on constitutional reform, paving the way for the country’s accession to the CCJ in its appellate jurisdiction.

The signing was also witnessed by President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron.

As it stands, the Privy Council in the United Kingdom is the final Court of Appeal for Antigua and Barbuda.

The accession to the CCJ as its final court of appeal will require a change in the Antigua and Barbuda Constitution, via a referendum.

Also present at the August 14

signing were Antigua and Barbuda’s Attorney General, Steadroy Benjamin, and political leader of the opposition United Progressive Party, Harold Lovell.

The memorandum of understanding clears the way for a bipartisan approach during consultations leading up to the referendum.

Already, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has appointed the country’s ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr Clarence Henry, to spearhead the national engagement and consultation, which is aimed at fully explaining the rationale for the adoption of the CCJ in its appellate jurisdiction.

Ambassador Henry will appoint a National Committee of stakeholders, which will include representatives from the Trade Union Congress, political parties, the Chamber of Commerce, the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association, the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, the

The signing (Antigua) was also witnessed by President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne (left) and Opposition Leader Baldwin Spencer affixed their signatures to an MOU that began the process of Antigua and Barbuda accepting the CCJ as its finals court of appeal.

Barbuda Council, the ministry of legal affairs, civil society, media association and the Antigua Broadcasting Service and Youth.

The CCJ was established in 2001 to replace the London-based Privy Council.

Most of the Caribbean countries have signed on to the court’s original

jurisdiction, which allows for the CCJ to ensure uniform interpretation and application of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, underpinning and advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy.

Only Barbados, Guyana, Belize and Dominica are signatories to the appellate jurisdiction of the CCJ.

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6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

Vincies join relief efforts for Dominica the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, New York.

THE CONSULS GENERAL of “There is an urgent St. Vincent and the need for household items Grenadines, St. Lucia and such as canned goods, Grenada have joined their cleaning supplies, Dominican counterpart in toothbrushes, toothpaste, appealing for urgent help mouthwash, detergent, for hurricane-ravaged disinfectants, etc.,” said Dominica, where nine the groups in their appeal. communities have been “Also needed are school declared special disaster supplies and medical areas. supplies such as The diplomats, along disposable gloves, adult with the Brooklyn-based diapers, sponges, sheets SVG Relief, Inc., the (double and Queen), umbrella Vincentian group towels, etc. Please come in the United States, the out and support the people Council of St. Vincent and of our sister island,” they the Grenadines’ added.

Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. In Florida, the Miami (COSAGO) and the Foundation has Dominica Emerald established the Caribbean Organization of New Community Relief Fund.

Jersey, on Sunday Organizers said the conducted a relief drive for fund’s purpose is to the people of Dominica, at provide financial support

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

for ongoing relief efforts in Dominica, and the officials assured that there will be strict oversight of the fund. Tax acknowledgment letters will also be provided to all donors.

Meantime, Caribbean American Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, that she, along with residents of the Ninth Congressional District of New York that she represents in Brooklyn, “remains in prayer for the victims of Tropical Storm Erika and their families, and for the recovery of the Commonwealth of Dominica.”

Recognising that an estimated 80 percent of the population now lacks electricity or clean water, and that damage to roads and bridges has “impeded

Brooklyn Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke addressing relief efforts at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn. She’s flanked by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams (far left), Dominica NY Consul General Dr. Barbara Dailey and St. Vincent and the Grenadines New York Consul General Selmon Walters. efforts to search for survivors,” Clarke declared that “the international community has a moral obligation and responsibility to provide all necessary assistance to the people of Dominica.

“I ask that the people of Brooklyn demonstrate the compassion that defines our character as a civil society, and contribute to relief efforts in Dominica,” Clarke continued. “Let us continue to keep the people of Dominica in our prayers.”

The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, has also expressed “deep concern” over the loss of life and damage to infrastructure and property in Dominica

following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika.

Almagro said the OAS will extend to Dominica the maximum contribution from the Inter-American Aid Fund (FONDEM), along with the organization’s commitment to providing technical expertise and assistance.

According to reports, Erika left at least 20 people dead and about 31 still missing in Dominica, as the storm passed through the Caribbean.

In a nation-wide television address late Friday, Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said Erika’s onslaught has set his island back 20 years.

“I have been assessing

the damage all day,” he continued. “The extent of devastation is monumental. It is far worse than expected.”

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda said over the weekend that it has donated US $100, 000 towards the Dominica relief effort.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne, in extending heartfelt sympathies and solidarity to Dominica during this period of loss and unfortunate devastation, said that his government is “confident that the resilience, fortitude and unwavering commitment of your people to survive against all odds will assist Dominica in renewing itself.”

RSVG Police Force assists Dominica

by KENVILLE HORNE THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Police Force, in collaboration with the Police Welfare Association, has donated foodstuff and other supplies , valued over EC$12,000.00 to Dominica.

The goods left here for Dominica on Wednesday, via a Barbados Coast Guard vessel. Four local officers, headed by Sgt. Cornelius Ross, accompanied the shipment.

Chairman of the Police Welfare Association, Inspector Trevor Bailey, said “We have been in contact with our colleagues in Dominica, and they have made of us a request. Their immediate request is for some water, dry food, and canned stuff.”

He explained that following the request, the Welfare Association convened a special meeting, and decided to assist.

In addition to the members of the Police Welfare Association, the Gazetted Officers also contributed to the venture. “We are happy that we are in a position that we can assist our colleagues in Dominica. You know our prayers and our thoughts are with them, as they go through this hard time,” said Bailey.

The police Inspector also confirmed that Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves has made a generous donation to the Welfare Association. The donation also

Below: Part of the consignment of goods that left for Dominica, compliments the RSVGPF and the Police Welfare Association.

went towards providing assistance to their colleagues in Dominica.

Deputy Commissioner Reynold Hadaway confirmed Bailey’s statement, during a telephone interview. He said that because of the nature of the Police Welfare Association, they had to make an additional outreach.

“One needs to understand the way things work. The Welfare Association represents the junior officers, from Inspector down to Constables, therefore the senior officers took a decision to assist also,” said Hadaway .

The Deputy Commissioner promised that the police force “will continue to assess and assist where necessary.”

THE VINCENTIAN has been reliably informed that other businesses and organisations here would be sending assistance to Dominica as well.

Tropical Storm Erika caused flooding and mudslides, leaving at least 11 people dead and 23 missing, amidst destruction to infra-structure across Dominica, August 27.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 7.

News

ÂOperation Dominica ReliefÊ gets going

ZANDOLI INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION, INC. and Taraji Foundation, Inc. will be collaborating on an initiative dubbed ‘Operation Dominica Relief’, in an effort to collect care packages and supplies for persons affected by tropical storm Erika in Dominica.

Hundreds of persons in that OECS territory are now homeless, displaced and in need of medical attention.

Information received indicates that the following items are urgently needed: water, canned and dry foods, gently used clothing,

shoes, baby supplies, medical supplies and other disaster relief items.

A medical team has been organized and is currently working on the ground. This team is spearheaded by Dr. Curtis Sabroche.

Persons moved to make donations to this relief effort can do so at: Columbus Communications SVG Limited (Flow) - Lower Bay Street, Kingstown; The Frame Shop – Baynes Building, Granby Street, Kingstown; Church of the Latter Day Saints of Jesus

Customers in Trinidad and Jamaica could well expect price reviews, as a result of the removal of some channels from the cable television service offered by the new C&W-FLOW entity.

FLOW customers will be informed CUSTOMERS OF FLOW have been assured that they will be engaged and informed on any adjustments to the video line up here.

In a statement issued by the company’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Corey Garrett, it mentioned that Columbus Communications SVG Ltd. remained committed to providing the highest valued content in the country, and gave the assurance that the company adheres to the local market’s conditions and demands.

“We continue to engage our international and regional video partners to secure content for the region,” the company said.

The release noted that this was an on-going and complex process, and as part of this, customers may see changes in the channel line-up.

The release and assurance from FLOW here, come on the heels of what transpired in the Trinidad and Jamaica markets, where some channels were removed from the line-up, causing a stir among customers in those countries.

The channels were removed in Trinidad after the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago ordered cable providers to stop broadcasting channels for which they did not have the intellectual property rights from the owners, to do so.

A similar situation arose in Jamaica back in April this year, with cable operators in that country having to remove 19 channels from their line- up, by the end of August.

The company has however indicated that there will be no rebates to customers or reductions in their monthly bills in Trinidad and Jamaica, though the Managing Director of the merged LIME and Columbus Communications, Garfield Sinclair, revealed that the company will be reviewing its pricing system.

Christ, Kingstown Park; Church of the Nazarene, Arnos Vale; Basil Charles Educational Foundation Café; SVGCC Villa; Super J Supermarkets, Stoney Ground and Arnos Vale; and Save A Lot, Kingstown.

Editor’s Note: The Zandoli Foundation is a

philanthropic organization located in New Jersey in the United States and has a special interest in assisting causes in the Caribbean.

Taraji Foundation, Inc.is a non-profit organization registered in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and is committed to assist and aid needy persons and families.

Dominicans are in need of relief supplies after being hit by tropical storm Erika last Thursday.

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8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 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

ERIKA – the aftermath in a broader sense

Retreating to butt harder next time

LAST WEEK THURSDAY, from what was for all intents and purposes, the comfort of our homes and offices here in SVG, we witnessed a powerful tropical storm, Erika, as it approached fellow Windward Island Dominica.

The storm dropped an estimated 6-8 inches of rain in less than 6 hours, and a total of some 15 inches, on a population of some 78,000.

Erika’s wrath was devastating, to say the least: eleven lives lost, and another 23 persons unaccounted for up to Tuesday of this week; roads uprooted, bridges torn asunder and rivers overflowing and widening as they engulfed once fertile lands; homes fallen like match stick structures or significantly damaged by raging, muddy water; electrical lines knocked down, water supply cut off or severely impeded; mud and water seeping into every nook and cranny.

In the aftermath, we were reminded of our own devastating floods of December 2013 that left death and destruction throughout the land.

Like ours, Erika’s destruction was unbelievable.

And yet, even as we mourn with our Dominican counterparts, we must admit, not unlike our own situation of 2013, that it could have been worse.

We must mourn the loss of every person who perished, and know the anguish their deaths caused loved ones; but we should also acknowledge that the death toll from a storm like Erika, on a fragile landmass like Dominica, or ours for that matter, could have been greater.

But why is it that it seems so different when a disaster of this nature hits us now? Why is it different in these times?

Because Dominica, like SVG, is not the same country it once was.

Physically, development abounds in the quest for modernisation; transportation and communications services have increased and improved; and a sense of organisation pervades the society.

There is, simply put, more to lose — physically and emotionally — but at one and the same time, we are or should be more prepared for the onslaught and subsequent evacuation process contingent upon the passage of a storm and/or hurricane.

Such improvements and advancements did not occur by accident.

Many people have toiled for decades past, and many continue to toil to help advance our small island territories.

On the back of this recognition — the sweat and resilience of Dominicans past and present — and in a true spirit of camaraderie and sense of commitment to each other, as demonstrated by the quick meeting between Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition post Erika, there is hope for Dominica.

Already, the process of rebuilding and rehabilitation is set with an accompanying tone that the country belongs to all Dominicans, in times of joy and moreso in times of sorrow, since the wrath of Erika would unleash a whole new wave of poverty.

And in all of this sorrow and pain that Dominicans have to endure, the issue of disaster risk reduction raises its head begging for concern and attention.

There is no denying that we cannot stop the storms, hurricanes or for that matter tsunamis or volcanic eruptions. But we can take steps to lessen their impact. Sometimes that means getting farmers to plant drought-resistant seeds. Sometimes it means prepositioning supplies so we can move quickly if a storm hits. Sometimes it means designing better buildings that can withstand high winds or a trembling earth.

And sometimes it means making sure people have plans in place to get to safe areas in the event of a natural disaster.

So, in the aftermath of Erika, and even as we have two or so more months of the official hurricane season during which we have to keep our guard up, it is a time for giving thanks that the impact of Erika on Dominica, and on other Caribbean peoples that it affected, was not more destructive.

We must give thanks to God or whosoever, for granting us the ingenuity, generosity, dedication and foresight that help minimize damage when a storm strikes.

It is not unrealistic to hope that one day everyone, everywhere in the world, will be so well prepared, that storms like Erika will hardly be noticed, any more than when a powerful thunderstorm passes over our homes.

We hope that one day we will look out in awe at the power of nature and feel safe and secure.

May blessings overflow.

I LEFT SVG for a European holiday on August 6, with a heavy heart. My niece Elma Dougan was slated to be buried two days later. She was the first child of my first sister Stella, and had been a past PNO among a number of other things, who had incidentally graduated in Britain at the same time I had pursued law and graduate studies there.

Elma was popularly known to have possessed a heart of gold. She had minimised her political status, having been the wife of controversial statesman, Carlyle Dougan. I recall vividly that I surrendered my task as MC at their marriage on April 7, 1972 because of the tension that suffused the ceremony following the tied result 6:6:1 of the election results of the day before!

Elma concentrated on being good always, serving in particular the Anglican community with a passion. She had a heart of gold, and will be sadly missed by a lot of people of all walks of life.

For my trip, my wife and I reported to the airline companies that we were not in the best of health and would appreciate some assistance during the flight. And we were treated royally, as a result by both Virgin Atlantic and British Airways which managed the return leg from Heathrow to Frankfurt, Germany.

In England, our main thrust was to rest, visit our family and friends and, of course , take on a selective amount of what the countries had to offer.

We visited my ninety-year-old sister Ena and her husband Sonny Da Silva of Windward Islands cricket fame. With his devasting off cutters, Sonny was sure to have gained West Indies selection before his contemporary Alfie Roberts, had he not emigrated at the particular time in 1955.

Ena was particularly close to me. Among other things, she sent me to typing at Iris Mc Kie, bought me a second-hand bike wherewith to travel to and from the Grammar School, secured me a Christmas job at the Post Office where she worked and, above all, introduced to me her fifteen-year-old friend Jennie Gabriel, who lived near to the Post Office and had befriended the staff.

A great joy was experienced when I called on my niece Hazel Smith, daughter of Elsie John. Hazel is about to publish the memoirs of the John family. I got a preview. I swallowed it up. It is great, as you will no doubt agree after reading the formal publication later.

Of contemporary relevance is Hazel’s probing research which showed that our family directly related to the Garifuna who are now making a bid to reconnect with their ancestral home.

I next called on two great friends that harked back to my childhood and teen-aged days, Edward “Pino” Davy and Vanwrick Alexander who, like Hazel, lives in the suburban region of Brighton.

“Pino” attended Anglican Sunday School with me, and the Grammar School, at which we both taught before furthering our education abroad.

We had great fun as young men. We

recalled dating two friends whom we took out to Argyle in “Pino’s” car, purchased from Headmaster Ronnie Hughes. On these occasions, we sang love songs to Pam Walrond and Jennie Gabriel. Those were the days.

“Pino” did well in Britain, for a time lecturing at a Polytechnic in law, as well as putting to use his degree in Economics.

Always a cheerful person, he was blessed with a Guyanese wife of similar disposition. Their children are exceptionally brilliant academics.

We met “Pino” as buoyant as ever, despite a crippling stroke which has curtailed movement, and affected his speech; but his faith in God remains as strong as ever.

So, too, was Vanwrick Alexander, with his wife the former Juliet Nanton, both of them enjoying their third marriages, although they had been teenaged lovers who had been cheated by events over which they had no control. But both have decided to make this final marriage count with blessings untold.

So far the marriage has passed the sternest of tests, and is an example to many of us. During the last ten years or so, Vanny has been smitten with the worst effects of Diabetes. And ex-nurse, past beauty queen Juliet has stuck by his side.

Now Juliet has also been cut down by other serious ailments. I met them last week Sunday seated in their comfortable home, looking at television and facing the prospects of more surgery, which they accept with Christian fortitude, the aggressive Vanny of the 50s and 60s now mellowed by Christian faith, but still forceful on the way forward for SVG. Vanny of course went further back with me.

He was captain of the North London team in which we and Denzil “Ladd” Winsborro starred about 1970, a team that was founded

by Vincent Beache previously. Further back, I was captain of the school cricket team X1, with Vanny as vice captain; and then we both played for Hairoun whose “B” side I skippered.

On the social side, Jennie hosted a gathering at my son Adrian’s home, at which her school mates turned up, such as Florence Jack who was the light and soul of the party. I recall Florence admitting that the only man of her dreams was Carlton Hall whose nickname, “Red Iron” had been the real appeal!

On the social side, parties were also held by the families of David Robin for him and wife, daughter Andrea, in the Highwicombe area, attended by Jennie and myself.

Jennie and I with Adrian and his dear beloved wife Veronne, with their two talented children, Ethan and Sophie, went to Germany where we partly stayed at Walter Huggins, son of Jennie’s aunt Amy Huggins, and his engaging German wife, Renata.

Continued on Page 27.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 9.

Letters

Dear Mom, I WRITE YOU THIS LETTER as it is sometimes difficult for you to listen to me because you are under so much stress being a single parent, trying to make ends meet and keeping us comfortable and happy. We know that you love us and that’s the way you show it by stressing each and every day to get the things we need, especially for school so that we might continue our education.

Mommy, I know that you are glad that I will be going to secondary school, even though I did not pass the CPEA. While this is a good idea for persons like me to get a secondary education, I am fearful that I will not get the support I need to complete. You have not had any regular employment for some

time and I know it would be hard for you to get the uniforms. I know for sure, that you would have to go to ‘social welfare’ for help, and there is no guarantee they will put your name on the list.

I will be placed in a form with others who would have no time to focus on remedial work with me. This will put me at a disadvantage. As you know, I am weak in all my subjects and did not get the additional help I needed while I was in Grade Six, because you could not afford to pay for extra lessons.

And while I feel happy knowing that I am going to secondary school, in the back of my mind there is this fear. Fear that I may be influenced

by others not to focus on my school work. Fear that I may become lost in a form full of “Scholars”.

Fear that you would not have the means to support me day to day, so I may have to skip sessions. Fear that you may be pushing yourself to the limit to ensure that I and my other siblings succeed, and this may cause you to have a nervous breakdown.

Mom, I know you will say otherwise, but I love you and need you around as long as possible. I wish there was some other way I could have furthered my education after CPEA, without you having to go through so much stress.

As it is now, however, I am going back to secondary school, and I

Vincentians do not impact the diaspora?

MANY VINCENTIAN NATIONALS today comprise the teeming populations in England, Canada and the U.S.A. Choosing to migrate in search of a better way of life, many Vincentians living in those international communities are able through remittances, to assist their families.

Those who have returned home to retire, build homes from their hardearned dollars, but many opt to confine themselves to their homes instead of becoming actively involved in civic life, let alone making any business investment that would stimulate the local economy create employment.

Those who are currently living in the diaspora are no exception, have no inclination to impact on the economy in their adoptive homeland.

Unlike, for example, the wellorganised Jamaican community in the Diaspora, the Vincentian community

has failed miserably to impact on cultural and economic activities in the Dispaora.

Jamaicans own and manage their own businesses, and so create employment for Jamaicans and other West Indians.

Culturally, Jamaicans jump at every opportunity to promote their culture.

Perhaps the Vincy Picnic- a social event that takes place annually in Brooklyn, NY, should be used to encourage those with cultural and educational abilities, to collaborate to create institutions that would leave positive Vincentian legacies in the diaspora.

Vincentians living in the Diaspora need to come to the realization that they have an obligation to lift St. Vincent and the Grenadines to higher heights!

Patmos Richards

Beware, those who mock YAHUVEH ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, do not anger YAHUVEH with your unholiness…your unholy lifestyle.

Go ahead, mock and you shall see YAHUVEH’s wrath come down in such a way, it will be a torrent, a storm, a gust of wind, and truly it shall sweep the chaff away. YAHUVEH shall bring forth waves as the waves of ungodliness have reached heaven. The waves of the ocean and seas shall roar, the storms from heaven unlike anything that anyone has seen. The earth shall quake and shake. So go ahead. YAHUVEH dares you to mock.

With every word that proceeds out of your mouth that mocks and scoffs, that rejects YAHUVEH’s mercy and YAHUVEH’s love, that rejects YAHUVEH and YAHUSHUA… so go ahead and mock, you enemies of YAHUVEKH that defile YAHUVEH’s Shabbat. Go ahead and mock, it is

YAHUVEH who will have the last laugh. You say I will play God with the knowledge YAHUVEH has given you.

You better fall on your knees now and repent while there is yet time. Call upon the name of YAHUSHUA, YAHUVEH’s beloved son. Cry out for mercy, for the evil that you have done.

Oh, but you hardened generation, you reprobates, you who think you are so rich and you’re full of pomp, fame and glory. You glorify yourself in your own image, it is only because of the mercy and the love YAHUVEH has shown through His son YAHUSHUA, that YAHUSHUA does not erase the entire human race.

John 3:16: ‘For YAHUSHUA so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have eternal life’.

Why we are in decline

will need your constant supervision. I am, therefore, requesting that you check up on me every day. Find out what I did and request to see what I did ‘subject-wise’ in school. Visit the school and become familiar with my teachers. Try to know who my friends are.

Encourage me to think and act positively. Most of all, continue to love me, but remember that just as you want me succeed, remember to have room for failure.

Your son Roy.

* Whether the investigation into the incident involving Grenville John, then Comptroller of Customs and Excise, exonerated him (John) of any wrong-doing? * Who is earmarked to replace John at the Customs, a male or female? And would that person be allowed to rule roughshod over all and sundry like John did? * Why can’t Ralph and Arnhim be like Skerrit and Linton? * An African get a Vincy passport, VINLEC for sale; who really telling the truth on these matters? * Is the manager of the IADC now a politician?

LETTERS ARE FILLING the Opinion and Letters columns of our newspapers weekly, written by both religious and secular-minded people, decrying the moral state our country has sunk to. Crime, sex, corruption, miscarriages of justice, and general demoralization are continuing themes. Is there a historically valid argument for this concern? Does Gibbon, Spencer, Spengler, Vico, Tainter, Diamond, or the Durrants, et al, have anything to say that may corroborate this concern? There may be some consensus.

Most agree that, when an economy shrinks due to agricultural declines and business contraction, declining exports and foreign trade imbalances (imports increasingly outnumber exports), or when mundane problems can no longer be solved by the government (potholes; unemployment; unclean, cluttered, or vermin infested streets, fires taking too long to extinguish, etc.); or when major public work projects are left uncompleted or completion is continually postponed (Georgetown hospital, Green Hill housing, cross country-road, airport, etc.); or when court proceedings come to disarray (the judges, prosecutors, and defence agree on the ineptitude or inefficiency of the police to provide timely and suitable evidence; or arrests are made with cause, but dismissed for political reasons; or arrests are made without sufficient cause and dismissed for lack of evidence; or cases are dismissed due to poor police procedures, or endlessly delayed and rescheduled, etc.); or when government administration of essential services is devolved to private control due to confessed inability to manage (fisheries, shipyards, etc.);or when the national debt burden is so large that it becomes the responsibility of many future generations…such a society could be characterized as in dangerous decline.

Among the symptoms would also be a loss of structure of grammar in the language, shrinkage of the vocabulary; fewer words commonly used mean an inability to convey nuance or subtlety because bombast, hyperbola, and invective have subsumed moderate speech, and a regression to argot, patois or dialect increases. The arts decline to crafts; dance and painting revert to folk forms for inspiration; music becomes increasingly energetic and emotional, or spiritual and provocative, and/or loud). People’s expectations may not decline, but they do not rise. The middle class (the source of imagination, aspiration and creativity) contracts; many seek self-exile to foreign shores, or as a body it declines into subsistence. Individual initiative is lost, replaced by a faith and hope in a “higher power”, political or spiritual, that will sustain them. Despair, ignorance, bias, prejudice, polarization, tribalism, and superstition incrementally become sustaining features. People look to leaders who incite, foment, and declaim their right to rule rather than to leaders who offer guidance, civility, dialogue, and solutions that may be hard but necessary.

In the modern world, countries in bureaucratic or cultural decline don’t dissolve; nature abhors a vacuum. A “strong man” emerges to take control: Franco, Stalin, Hitler, Mussolini, Chavez, Pinochet, Peron, etc. They are charismatic, wilful and decisive. They also abrogate rights and freeze creativity and innovation. Dissent is repressed and individual behaviour restricted. Stability is maintained but at the cost of a declining standard of living and loss of individual liberty.

The upside is that its duration is limited.

But then, none of this sounds familiar, does it?

I’m OK, you’re OK, and we are all OK. And I am sure that’s not a cliff we’re marching toward…aren’t you? We nah turn back!

Jeremiah

YAH Descendant

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10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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Geothermal development…. Economic game changer in the works… Part Two The issue ON TUESDAY, August 18th, 2015, the House of Assembly passed the Geothermal Resources Development Bill 2015, after several hours of debate. The passage of this bill represents a landmark moment in the drive by the ULP administration to utilize the geothermal source available from the area around the La Soufriere volcano. All this is aimed at reducing the costs of energy in the state. It will also provide the country with a stable source of energy, in terms of costs and supply, coupled with the fact that the country will have diversified sources, to go with hydro, diesel, wind and solar.

The ULP administration has already indicated its commitment to develop an efficacious mix of renewable energy, in the forms of hydro, solar and geothermal. The country has a national energy policy and an action plan that is linked to the CARICOM and OECS energy policies. There are a number of international strategies and initiatives which the ULP administration subscribes to, in the drive to develop the energy sector.

The Geothermal Resources Development Bill will provide the legal framework for the development of this sector. It is a very important, indeed very critical step in the process towards developing the geothermal sector. Despite all the preliminary work that has been done, the discussions with possible partners, funding agencies and other related bodies, the preliminary work in the north of the country and so forth, we must understand that the drilling process cannot properly begin, unless there is a legal framework.

The Geothermal Bill The objects and reasons for the bill, as set out in the document, are to establish the National Energy Committee, to provide for the development and use of geothermal resources in the State, and other related matters. It sets out clearly the procedures for the establishment of a National Energy Committee, and outlines the role of this body, in terms of the promotion of investments in the geothermal sector.

Under the provisions of the Bill, the National Energy Committee will advise the minister responsible for energy, on a number of matters, including the development of policies and programmes for achieving sustainable use and supply of energy, and renewable energy. Other responsibilities include the development of an energy base, the development of a public awareness campaign, and the determination of fees, royalties and the bonds to be charged, in relation to services in this sector.

Finally, the bill provides for licences, permits and concessions, as well as compliance, enforcement and safety measures to be adopted for use in the development of the energy sector.

The Debate on the Geothermal Bill As expected, the opposition NDP did not support the geothermal bill

when the debate concluded in the House of Assembly. In fact, the level of maturity, professionalism and intelligence displayed by the Opposition during the debate, was childish at best. They pretended that they had an understanding of the importance of geothermal energy to the nation. They pretended that they were interested in reducing the country’s energy costs, and that geothermal was the answer.

But this was all pretense, all aimed at fooling the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines. It is a fact that the members of the opposition NDP did not attend a single meeting of the House Select Committee, to discuss the geothermal bill. It is a fact that there was confusion in the ranks of the NDP, with the member for West Kingstown, Daniel Cummings, stating that his party would not support the bill. The member for Central Kingstown, St. Clair Leacock, however disagreed with this, claiming that geothermal resource is so important to St.Vincent and the Grenadines, and that all and sundry should support it.

It is clear, therefore, that the Opposition is not interested in geothermal energy, and equally important, is not interested in reducing the cost of energy for domestic and commercial users in the state.

Having reached that stage, the NDP, through its former Minister of Communications, Glenford Stewart, contrived to produce the most dastardly lie, claiming that the ULP administration was in talks with Emera, to sell the power company, VINLEC. Nothing could be further from the truth, and this lie has been refuted by a number of officials, including Emera. It is important to note that a number of leading NDP supporters, including Bassy Alexander, supported this lie. It is also important to note that, despite the refuting of this lie, the NDP has shown no remorse, and no apology is on the horizon.

Conclusion There can be no doubt that the development of the geothermal sector in St.Vincent and the Grenadines will be a major game changer, in terms of the development of the economy of our nation. This must be seen in much the same way as the construction of the international airport project at Argyle.

With the passage of this bill, the way is now clear for the actual start of the exploration work in the area around the La Soufriere volcano. The ULP administration will continue to focus on its “people-centered development strategy” where people are at the heart of the development of our beloved country. Lies, slander and defamation, which are the trade mark of the opposition NDP, will never work, and that is why the people of the country will support the ULP and “four in a row”.

The NDP and education THE 2015 – 2016 ACADEMIC YEAR will commence on Monday 7th September, 2015 and the New Democratic Party (NDP) wishes the teachers and students all the best for the year. During the seventeen years in office of the NDP, it implemented a number of initiatives to the schools’ curriculum, that transformed the teaching and learning environment.

The NDP will continue the reformation of the education system and curriculum at all levels in consultation with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union (SVGTU) and other stakeholders.

Only by consultation with the SVGTU and other stakeholders, would we ensure the realization of quality education for all. We will implement an education system that will build our human capacity development.

Therefore, the NDP will: * Improve the quality of primary and secondary education, with a greater emphasis on the allocation of resources to primary education. To accomplish this, there is need for improvement in teaching quality and facilities, relevance of curriculum, learning materials, and the introduction of continuous assessment systems and remedial programmes for slow learners. * Ensure that quality, fairness and justice are central to the practice of education. We will provide opportunities for all, regardless of their position in life, and ensure that all persons and institutions are dealt with fairly and according to objective procedures and standards. * Provide funding to the poor and students from rural areas to enable them to easily access quality education and to take advantage of such opportunities. * Ensure that all students have access to learning resources such as text books, computers and other relevant learning resources. * Establish a national curriculum framework on numeracy and literacy * Implement strategies to effectively deal with undiagnosed and untreated developmental and learning disabilities, and the establishment of remedial education programmes to effectively deal with such learning difficulties. * Revise the school feeding programme to establish a policy that includes emphasis on the nutritional content of the feeding programme and ensure the use of more local produce. * Make skills training more accessible throughout the country and ensuring that targeted interventions are well designed and are appropriately linked to the labour market demands, national development and the global economy. * Provide direct assistance to students writing external examinations such as CAPE and CSEC by paying the fees for all students registered to take these examinations. * Employ technology coordinators to help apply computers in the delivery of the curriculum. * Curb the school drop-out rates by embarking on curriculum reform to ensure that the curriculum is broadbased, and that there are extra —curricular activities to meet students’ developmental needs * Promote career and vocational guidance in all educational institutions. * Implement National Vocational Qualification Certificate for nationals in and out of secondary schools in accordance with CARICOM’s guideline * Provide a dormitory for students from the Grenadines and rural areas to access quality secondary and college education.

While the Unity Labour Party (ULP) promotes its “Education Revolution” Vincentians must be reminded that it was the NDP that laid the foundation for the development of education in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The following were

achieved by the NDP: * Repeal the Coutts Agreement which allowed every female teacher to get maternity leave; * The recognition of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Union and the signing of the first Collective Agreement with the SVGTU; * The establishment of the School Feeding Programme; * The decentralizing of the Common Entrance; * All students of common entrance age were allowed to write the exam; * Introduction of the School Radio Broadcast; * Establishment of the Annual Science Fair; * Paying of the Economic Cost for all students studying at the University of the West Indies(UWI); * Increase the number of Island Scholarships; * Establishment of the Book Loan Scheme; * The introduction of the Student Loan programme; * Established the schools computer programme and computer labs; * The STATVEC project to enhance Technical and Vocational Education came on stream; * Seeking scholarships for students to study at universities other than the UWI; * Establishment of the Curriculum Development Unit; * A significant increase in teachers’ salaries; * The introduction of Professional Development Week; * The passing of the Education Act of 1992 replacing that of 1937; * Establishment of the Community College.

It must be noted that the increased number of students who now pursue studies at the University of the West Indies is largely due to 3 (three) major initiatives that the NDP implemented: the introduction of the Student Loan Programme which also includes the Disadvantaged component; the payment of students’ Economic Cost and the introduction of the A’ Level section of the Community College, now the Division of Arts, Science and General Studies. With the establishment of the Community College, the number of students who write the A ‘Level exams increased from fifty (50) to over three hundred (300), thus enabling more students to be qualified for entry to universities. Be reminded that A’ Level students were housed at the St. Vincent Boys Grammar School which had insufficient space. Also, the payment of the Economic Cost gave children of poor and working class families the opportunity to further their studies at university level.

The teachers should be commended for their hard work and dedication over the years, although their union has been treated with contempt by the ULP regime. Since 2005, there has not been a signed Collective Agreement between the government and the SVGTU, and most of the Articles of the 2005 Collective Agreement have not been implemented. For instance, the three teachers who contested the 2010 general elections have not been reinstated. Also, there has been no resolution to the illegal transfer of Mr. Otto Sam who was subsequently dismissed. As a result, the SVGTU took the matters to the court. And for the past three years, the teachers have not received any salary increase. The NDP is ready to reform education and work with the SVGTU. WE READY!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 11.

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The learning revolution

“The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live.” - Mortimer Jerome Adler (1902–2001), American philosopher, educator, professor, author, editor, innovator.

PROFESSOR MIGUEL CARRILLO, Executive Director at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, University of the West Indies, Trinidad and Tobago, is an outstanding academic and business strategist. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of conversing with him on a variety of topics. He has been instrumental in encouraging the business school to design and implement courses that are particularly focused on specific Caribbean situations. The business school now offers specially tailored Master’s Degree programmes in Port Management, Small Business Development, and Innovation, to mention a few. In his unique way, he has created a learning revolution at the business school. But he is not alone on this journey; the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and the various campuses of the University of the West Indies (UWI) have embraced such an approach within recent times. This is most encouraging. Unfortunately, these regional institutions of higher learning appear to be too silent (modest) when it comes to letting the public know what is taking place within and behind their walls of learning. The learning revolution needs to be advertised. The champions of the positive changes need to be recognised.

The public needs to know about the developments that are taking place within the various disciplines.

Sir Ken Robinson advocates that the education system needs to be revamped to embrace the learning revolution. He was born in Liverpool, England on 4th March, 1950. He is an author, speaker, and international advisor on education in the arts, to government, non-profits, education, and arts bodies. He has had a distinguished career in education, having been the Director of The Arts in Schools Project in the United Kingdom (1985—89) and Professor of Arts Education at the University of Warwick (1989—2001). He was knighted in 2003, in recognition of his outstanding services to education. He now lives in Los Angeles, USA, and is a much sought-after speaker on education in general and the arts in particular.

Sir Ken advocates that we need to encourage independent thinking, risk taking, experimentation, and innovation in our schools. He advances the view that there is need for a learning revolution (hence the title of this article). As mentioned in the introductory paragraph, we are already seeing movements in this direction via the evolution of the programmes at various tertiary level institutions in the region. I am convinced that, in time, we will see similar concepts trickling down to the secondary and primary school levels, as teachers and parents embrace this new philosophy that will drive innovation and entrepreneurial activities throughout and beyond our communities. The learning revolution has commenced. It will bear fruits in our homes, neighbourhoods, and in our small and medium enterprises. You and I, as disciples of the process, must continue to embrace the concepts and challenges advanced by Professor Miguel, Sir Ken, and our many Caribbean luminaries, as we encourage the shapers of this generation to embrace the learning revolution.

As we approach the new school year, it behoves all of us, and especially teachers and parents, to look for those opportunities that will encourage our children to develop independent thought and foster critical thinking. It will take some imagination and commitment on our part. But it will be well worth the effort. Our young people have so many brilliant ideas. They continue to think of ways to do things differently. In many instances, they know that they can do things better. However, unfortunately, many are forced to conform to doing things “the same old way”. Such an approach stifles imagination and critical thought. These young minds need to be groomed and guided. And as paradoxical as it may seem, they also need to be set free. The learning revolution being proposed here will provide students to think outside the box. In doing so, we never know which of them will come up with a new product or service that can make Bill Gates’ wealth appear like child’s play.

When our children unleash their imagination, they can come up with new clothes designs, inventions of natural fertilizers, computer aps and so on. The sky will no longer be their limits. They will think beyond the sky.

Dr. Sam Bradley, an American university professor, has a PhD in Cognitive Sciences and a PhD in marketing. Our paths crossed while we were on assignment in Trinidad and Tobago some time ago. We were conversing at breakfast before heading off to the business school for a series of meetings. It was then that he shared some very interesting insights with me in relation to the “brain power” that resides within our young people. He noted that by late adolescence, the brain has just as much capability as the adult brain. However, he noted that it would understandably lack experience. Here is where it becomes important for that young (inexperienced) mind to have proper guidance. Teachers, parents, and concerned mature citizens can play a major role in coaching and mentoring these young, fertile minds to accomplish great feats in any discipline. The support mechanisms must therefore be considered critical as we continue the process of the learning revolution.

Although this article has focused primarily on unleashing the mental power/capacity in our young people, the introductory quotation beckons us to not lose sight of the fact that the learning revolution is not confined to this age group … we all can be active participants in this process. We are never too old to learn. We all need to embrace the concept of lifelong learning.

Our brains are grossly underutilized.

We have the capacity to learn so much more. Thus, it behoves each of us to seriously contemplate which new learning horizons we will venture towards. We must rekindle that pioneering spirit that got us to where we now are, and hone in on the new skills that will take us beyond our wildest dreams. The door to our personal learning revolution beckons us to enter.

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

The Nation’s cup is half full ‘IT WAS THE BEST OF TIMES, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to heaven, we were all going direct the other way - in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.’ Source: ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ by Charles Dickens.

In a rare show of bi-partisanship, both sides of the legislature supported a resolution which lauded the efforts past and present administrations made in combating hunger and undernourishment. During the debate, Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar cited numbers which showed that in the last 25 years, hunger and undernourishment has reduced drastically from about 19.5 percent or 21,000 persons to about 5,000.

A dispassionate look at most other areas of national endeavours will reveal similar progress. But you will never hear it in our national discourse. If you hear any conversation about anything, it will be trumpeted by the noisy, wailing sirens of partisans. It will be difficult for any objective observer to make a fair assessment of our reality.

For instance, in 1997, the Mitchell administration hired the Kiara group of consultants to do a poverty assessment of SVG. They reported that 37 percent of the people of SVG were living in poverty. Most shockingly, it also reported that 25 percent of the population was indigent- meaning they were so poor that they were unable to keep body and soul together on a daily basis.

In 2007, the current administration asked the same Kiara group of consultants to do a similar study. Kiara reported that 30 percent of the population was still quite poor, but indigence among Vincentians reduced from 25 percent to 2.9 percent.

The improvement the parliament celebrated in resolution last week seems to be in keeping with these advances regarding indigence. But don’t tell that to opposition leaders and their supporters.

Many of them would have walked right out of the assembly and proclaimed that there was never a time in the history of SVG when people were more hungry. The situation is the same regarding all other areas of national development.

We have to stop this kind of wild assault on all things local.

Dickens is right. To some of our people, these may be the best of times and to others they are the worst of times. Someone who lost her job last year and has not yet found another, may be going through the worst of times. Pensioners and others in the middle classes who had sufficient income to put away a little for the ‘rainy day’ may have had their lives completely rearranged following the collapse of British American Insurance and Clico.

But the young man or woman from very humble beginnings, who recently graduated university or those who landed their first pay cheque, may be all smiles. Life may never have been better. So too the young boy or girl who

performed well at their recent exams.

It is not long ago that many students in SVG attended half day school due to the inadequacies in the educational system. The problems are not all solved but all children, 11 and 12 years old, in SVG, have the chance to attend secondary school and to further their education. Less than 15 years ago, only 4 in 10 of those sitting the exams were allowed places in our secondary schools.

The teachers in our schools are much better trained and educated than ever before. Hundreds of teachers in our primary schools now have university degrees and specialized training.

In the last 15 years, hundreds of young people received government financial backing and guarantee, to allow them to afford their education. In February, during the last budget debate, it was revealed that 509 Vincentians were studying across the world with some form of government assistance. More of our young women are being trained as nurses.

SVG has always been known for the high quality of its housing stock. But no one persuasively denies that there has been real progress in housing that benefitted young people, generally especially police officers, nurses and other civil servants. Over 1000 low, middle and no income homes were built by the government. In addition, government, through its 100 percent mortgage policies for civil servants, may have accounted for scores, if not hundreds of additional homes. Today, many in their 20s and early 30s have attained their pride possession.

On top of these improvements in education and housing, there is the increased care and attention given to the vulnerable and the elderly in the form of income support, Home Care for the Elderly and the Lives to Live programmes that bring better care to shut-ins and relief, with indoor plumbing to many who could not afford these improvements on their own.

Geothermal energy and the international airport have transformative potential. The possibilities for cheaper energy will come as a real relief to consumers, make our country much more attractive to investors, thus creating employment.

The airport will not only relieve weary travelers from lay over in neighboring islands, it will also make our country much more attractive to investors and tourists.

To a large extent, what happens in SVG is development on the margins.

The full page is yet to be written on.

Many problems abound - crime and drugs, unemployment and underdevelopment, hopelessness and helplessness among slices of our population; but we are not sliding backwards, there is forward movement.

Too slow sometimes and often with too many twists and turns; but you will be blind if you don’t see effort and progress.

The nation’s cup is half full. We got a country to build. If we don’t do it, who will?

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

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12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Argyle airport madness: Gonsalves and Eustace should resign

and is a source of frustration of the audit exercise.

Arnhim Eustace is the Chairman of the LEADER OF SVG GREEN analysis either, to show left with a White PARTY, Retired Royal Air Elephant. any financial justification Public Accounts Committee. The project Force Warrant Officer Ivan for the project.

Under the present O’Neal BSc (Hons.), MSc, North / South runway Mr Ivan O’Neal has a cost was set at $502 million, but is now over MBA, calls for the BSc (Hons.) degree in orientation, Argyle $800 million. This is resignation of Ralph airport will not get an Accounting and Finance incredible, and still, the Gonsalves and Arnhim from Oxford Brookes international licence to Eustace for the madness operate passenger University, England, and Public Accounts at Argyle Airport. The wind flights. $800 million has in his opinion, the project Committee is not functioning. Who will at Argyle blows East / been wasted. should have never been pay back the wasted West, yet the Argyle awarded to a statutory The Argyle airport $800 million to the airport runway was built should have never been company — IADC people of SVG — North / South. created by the ULP started - there was no Gonsalves, Eustace, the The International five year mandatory government.

Civil Aviation The Director of Audit ULP regime? wind study carried out The Argyle airport Organisation’s (ICAO) prior to starting the had made several project has been killed guidelines state that project. The 5 year wind complaints to the ULP by the wrong runway airport runways should study would have shown government and the orientation of North / be built in line with the NDP opposition about that the wind is East / South. If the Argyle prevailing wind. The West and that a runway the non-functioning of airport project had been runway at Argyle airport going North / South the Public Accounts awarded to a private is perpendicular to the Committee, as under would not be safe. The East / West wind and is Leader of the Opposition section 75 (2) of the SVG company, then at least the wasted $800 million subjected to dangerous, should have demanded a 1979 Constitution, could be recovered from strong, gusty crosswinds. 5 year wind study. There saying it weakens the private company.

This is madness. We are was no cost-benefit parliamentary control

WINFA Launches Bio fertilizer Project THE WINDWARD ISLANDS Farmers’ Association (WINFA), in collaboration with the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Small Fairtrade Producers (CLAC), recently concluded a oneweek (August 25 — 28, 2015) Biofertilizer development training workshop in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The workshop was part of the Bio-fertilizer Development Project which is a cornerstone component of WINFA’s overall strategy to promote Sustainable Agricultural Development and productivity in the region.

The training targeted national banana farms in the first instance, and will be diffused into other crop types.

The regional bio-fertilizer development project comes on the heels of a series of recent calls here for a reduction of chemical applications in the agricultural sector.

WINFA’s Coordinator, Mrs. Kozel Fraser, expressed that “WINFA has always been proactive in addressing issues in the sectors that affect producers.”

She noted that there are a number of issues that “we have to keep focused on in agriculture, particularly, the interconnection between health and safety issues, environmental degradation, food and nutrition security, as well as markets and the possibility of organic production.”

Fraser also emphasized that while addressing the issue of sustainable agriculture, “we also must position our producers to transition into emerging markets”.

The training workshop

There has been no Parliamentary control or accountability of IADC. Pages 34 and 35 of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) recommended a runway orientation of (02/20). Had the ULP regime put the runway at (02/20) and the Argyle Airport failed to get a licence, then they could claim back the wasted $800 million from the EIA consultant.

The North / South runway orientation has killed Argyle airport.

The change in the orientation should have been rejected by the Public Accounts Committee, as under section 75 (2) of the SVG 1979 Constitution, but the Public Accounts Committee is not functioning.

We were told the Argyle Airport would become operational in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, May 2015, then September 2015. We are in September 2015. The Argyle Airport is not operating. We are being lied to time and time again. We must put the needs of Vincentians first, not tourists, and abort Argyle airport.

From day one, SVG Green Party told the ULP government that the orientation of the Argyle airport runway was wrong, and that they should abort the Argyle airport project.

SVG is being operated

like a failed state without a constitution.

Gonsalves and Eustace are responsible for the Public Accounts Committee. Gonsalves and Eustace should resign for wasting $800 million.

Any attempt to change the Argyle airport runway from the wrong orientation of North / South to East / West would result in hundreds of millions of dollars more being wasted. It would also take at least four more years.

A Green Government will abort the Argyle Airport project and convert the site into a wind farm for renewable energy and an industrial estate for small businesses.

In SVG, we have a weak and grossly incompetent government, and a weak and grossly incompetent opposition. We need new blood in the SVG Parliament, people who have the economic and financial competency to create a strong economy and thousands of new jobs.

At the next general elections, vote SVG Green Party for economic and financial competency, a strong economy, thousands of new jobs and money in your pocket.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Some participants in the first phase of training under the Biofertilizer Development Project. commenced with an introduction meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture conference room, followed by two days of field work, during which participants gathered organic material in the forest and involved themselves in the mixing of the first phase of solid bio-fertilizer.

While the main purpose of the training was to build competence in the development of biofertilizers, farmers were educated on the environmental and economic benefits as well.

stimulants used on farms.

It is also anticipated that the technology will reduce significantly the cost of Black Sigatoka control when fully developed. The Black Sigatoka disease has devastated the banana industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and cost approximately 2.5 million per year to control.

The use of the technology is also currently being explored by WINFA for other plant diseases like Citrus Greening.

Demonstration banana farms Bio-fertilizers – use and benefits have been identified throughout the St Vincent, Dominica and St A Bio-fertilizer is a substance Lucia, where the applications will which contains living be applied and studied over the microroganisms. When it is next three years. This will be applied to seeds, plant surfaces, or accompanied by the establishment soil, it helps to promote growth by of a bio-fertilizer facility in St increasing the supply or Vincent and the Grenadines, with availability of primary nutrients central oversight by WINFA. to the host plant. It contains no The CLAC representatives are chemicals. scheduled to return to St Vincent The Bio-fertilizers are expected and the Grenadines in the next to reduce the use of chemical two months for the fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, commencement of the second fungicides, nematicides and phase of the project.

Preparing for the SVG Horticultural Exhibition 24th October, 2015 Categories of Exhibits for the Exhibition The categories of Exhibits are as follows: * *

Potted Plants, specimen of cut flowers, fresh floral arrangements; Small display of fruits and vegetables, cacti and succulents, orchids, African violets, ferns, herbs, hanging Baskets.

Additional information can be obtained from any member of the Society.

Presented by the SVG Horticultural Society.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 13.

News Left: Hair braiding (left) and haircuts were offered free of charge to children, in preparation for their return to school.

Right: Many persons took the opportunity to cash in on other deals offered by LIME.

LIME hosts Back-to-School Fair

by KENVILLE HORNE

TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, LIME, on Monday August 31st, hosted a major Back-to School Fair at their headquarters in Kingstown.

The event was the first of its kind put on by the company, and Senior and Communications Corporate Executive Nikala Williams, said the idea of the Back-to- Auldine Brown of School Fair was borrowed Barnet Fair Hair from their partner in Fashion was Jamaica, where the activity pleased to involve has been staged for a her establishment in number of years. the event.

She described the Fair as an activity in keeping with Two of her LIME’s commitment to give children benefited back to the community. from the free “… The tradition of giving services offered. (back) is part of our corporate Also present at responsibility. You know the fair were education, sports, culture here representatives in St. Vincent, every last one from the Eastern of those aspects you can see Caribbean Marine LIME there,” said Williams.

Managed Areas The Marketing Executive Network also pointed to LIME’s other (ECMMAN) demonstration of its project, who commitment to education and mounted a the youth, citing the just demonstration to concluded LIME Summer highlight the Lion School and its National Fish which has Scholarship Awards been destroying presentation as examples. other fish species As far as the Fair was and reefs in SVG. concerned, many children used “The only way the opportunity to get free we can control it is haircuts, hair braiding, eye by eating it (Lion exams, nutrition and hygiene Fish), and we are checks, school supplies, and encouraging sampled a variety of culinary persons to eat it,” niceties. an ECMMAN Auldine Brown of Barnet representative told Fair Hair Fashion, whose THE company was engaged to do VINCENTIAN, as the braiding and hair cutting, she shared recipes remarked, “The children are for preparing the very happy because they are Lion Fish. getting what they want, and Williams, elated they are looking very special with the success of to go back to school on.” the inaugural Fair, A parent, Nedra Bruce, said confirmed that she learned about the event LIME will be when she was passing by the looking to making LIME headquarters, and she the event even thinks “the event is a very larger next year. good one.”

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14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Warrican promises to take full advantage Scholarship recipient Summer Warrican views the SVGTCCU scholarship as facilitating her and her fellow recipient on their path to achieving their economic goals.

by WILLIAM KOJAH’ ANTHONY SUMMER WARRICAN will make full use of the scholarship that the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Cooperative Credit Union has provided her. She

made the pledge last Wednesday at the handing over ceremony held at the SVGTCCU headquarters, Kingstown.

Warrican hit the headlines following the release of this year’s Caribbean Examinations Council Secondary

Education Certificate tests. She secured 13 passes, with all Grade Ones, to add to two Grade one passes as a fourth form student.

Warrican, speaking on behalf of her fellow recipient Daree Mayers, said the scholarship “furnishes us for our future and facilitates us on the path to our economic goals,” and will provide relief as they pursue their studies.

The two recipients will enter the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College this year, and Warrican promised that they will “take full advantage of this scholarship and work hard over the next two years.”

Nine teachers also received financial assistance from the SVGTCCU towards completion of their degree programmes.

Those persons are: Noel Campbell, J’Rai DaSilva, Barbara Rodgers-DeFreitas, Jamar Goodluck, Donet Johnson, Hayley

Thomas/McLean, Anthonio Rawlins, Debra LaBorde, and Levna Quashie Peterson.

Julian Jack, Chief Executive Officer of the SVGTCCU, indicated that some $30,000 was spent on the teachers, and he explained the reason behind the assistance was in keeping with upholding the importance of education in development.

President Cecil Charles urged the recipients to be “ambassadors of the SVGTCCU,” which, in his estimation, is the best, as proven by its track record.

He stressed that the SVGTCCU was open to all Vincentians, and reminded that the Credit Union was the only financial institution that offered dividends a rebate on loans every year.

Charles projected that more members will strengthen the organisation’s base and allow more benefits to accrue all round.

Scotiabank donates $50,000 to Dominica SCOTIABANK IS DONATING XCD$50,000 to assist the people of Dominica in relief efforts following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Dominica as they recover from the damage caused by the storm and search for their missing loved-ones,” said David Noel, Scotiabank’s Managing Director for Caribbean East.

“Scotiabank has been in the Caribbean for over 125 years and, along with our employees, we want to contribute to the relief efforts in our sister island.”

Paula Harts,

Scotiabank’s Country Manager for Dominica, spoke of how the storm had affected the country, saying: “Tropical Storm Erika has had a tremendous impact on the people of Dominica, including our employees and customers.

Scotiabank has been in Dominica for over a quarter of a century, and we are part of this community. As the country works to rebuild its communities, Scotiabank is committed to showing its support during these difficult times.”

The donation will be made to the Dominica Red Cross.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 15.

News

Marcia Pierce, Maryland, assigned to Rose Hall Government School.

Joe Huang, California, assigned to the Sandy Bay Government School.

Shelby Miller, Washington, DC, assigned to the Stubbs Government School.

Heather Higgins, Washington (State), assigned to the Spring Village Methodist School.

Christopher Cannito, New Jersey, assigned to the South Rivers Methodist School.

Rosie Beshk, California, assigned to the Leeward District Seventh Day Adventist School.

American volunteers begin ‘new adventure’

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY WHEN THE SCHOOL YEAR begins Monday, September 7, eight new Peace Corps Volunteers will also embark on a twoyear assignment here.

Christopher Cannito, Heather Higgins, Joe Huang, Kaitlin Bennett, Marcia Pierce, Robert McGarry, Rosie Beshk and Shelby Miller, dubbed EC87 Trainees, will be involved in a Primary English Literacy Project.

The eight, part of a 32-member contingent which arrived in the Caribbean about three months ago and underwent training/orientation in St. Lucia before, were sworn in last week Thursday during a ceremony at Frenches House, Kingstown.

Sara Lightner, Acting Country Director Peace Corps/Eastern Caribbean, pointed to aspects of the project which include improving libraries, phonics, reading, writing, decoding and one on one sessions with students.

The Volunteers will work with teachers.

“Working with teachers is one of the most important things that we can do,” Lightner disclosed.

She pointed to

measures aimed at strengthening the relationship between schools and the community aimed at broadening ties with parents and guardians.

Lightner is “excited” about the future, and expressed hopes about the continuation of the literacy project.

This is the second Group of Primary English Volunteers, and Lightner is exhorting them to give the task their full intensity.

“You represent the very best that the US has to offer,” the Acting Country Director Peace Corp commented.

Lightner, who rounds off her stint in the Caribbean this year after nine years, reminded the volunteers that they have to be “flexible.”

Kaitlin Bennett, California, assigned to the Diamond Government School.

Words of advice Hannah Browne, Education Officer for School Inspection, promised the Volunteers that their journey will be “adventurous,” adding, “It will challenge you, but it will be rewarding.”

She encouraged them to “engage in the learning process as much as you teach.”

Associate Director (SVG Office) Cuthbert James encouraged the new inductees to focus on the experience.

Robert McGarry, assigned to Owia Government School.

He praised those families who helped with integrating the Americans to the Vincentian way of life through a ‘Home Stay programme’, and paid tribute to cultural icon Carlton ‘CP’ Hall, who guided them into aspects of Vincentian culture.

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16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Grenada to host annual OECS Law conference

MEMBERS OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION throughout the OECS will gather in Grenada from September 11th – 13th to participate in the 12th Annual Law Conference of the OECS Bar Association, anticipated to be the biggest and the best since the inception of the event in 2004.

The packed week-end programme of activities, to be held at the refurbished Radisson Convention Centre (Grand Anse), focuses on Continuing Legal Education for lawyers for the entire day on Friday (Sep. 11th) and half-day on Saturday (Sep 12th).

On Saturday afternoon the OECS Bar holds its Quarterly Council meeting, embracing representatives of the nine (9) Bar Associations throughout the OECS, and focusing on matters touching and concerning

the development of the legal profession and Bar Associations. Sunday (Sep. 13th) is reserved wholly for tours and other social activities.

The continuing legal education programme on Saturday (Sep 12th) is a joint effort of the OECS Bar and the Judicial Education Institute (JEI) of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

Top law publishers from the United Kingdom and the Caribbean will also be on hand to display the latest law materials on the market and to provide discounted rates for attendees to the Law Conference.

Topics this year embrace important and wide-ranging themes such as internet defamation (libel), constitutional right to silence; liability of officers and directors of

companies; properly managing client accounts; protecting lawyer/client privilege; effectively defending accused persons; dying in one country with assets (property) in another; and re-examining bench/ bar (Judge & Lawyer) relations.

Among the impressive line-up of speakers for Friday’s programme are Dame Janice Pereira, Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court; Queens Counsel Andrew Mitchell of the United Kingdom, one of the leading authorities on anti-money laundering legislation; Mr.Jefferson Cumberbatch, a veteran law lecturer at the University of the West Indies; and Senior Counsel Israel Khan, a top criminal practitioner in the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Saturday’s joint symposium between the OECS Bar and the JEI features Mrs Karen Nunez-Tesheira, a leading Caribbean authority and author on the Law of Succession (inheritance), who will be examining the very important and common scenario of persons dying at home with property in another country and vice versa (dying in another country with assets at home), in the context of updated legislation and case law. Mrs NunezTesheira is a former lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School (Trinidad) and a former Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament in the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago. The joint symposium will also feature Queen Counsel Dr Henry Browne, who ranks among the top criminal practitioners in

the OECS. Law Conference 2015 will also pay special tribute to Ms Nicole Sylvester, a former President of both the OECS and St Vincent Bar Associations, who Dame Janice Pereira, sadly passed away last Chief Justice of the July 2nd . She Eastern Caribbean conceptualized and Supreme Court, will be initiated the Law among a list of legal Conferences (formerly luminaries who will Law Fairs) in 2004, and address the conference. was the main coordinator of this annual premier event for nine (9) consecutive years, until 2012.

This year, the obligation falls on the Grenada Bar Association to host this premier event of the OECS Bar, which rotates every year among the nine (9) islands comprising the The OECS Law Conference will OECS family. pay special tribute to Ms Nicole Grenada last Sylvester, a former President of hosted the event both the OECS and St Vincent in 2007.

Bar Associations.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 17.

Feature

OECS Young Citizens calling for action – ‘Climate Change is not just idle talk, but a threat to our future!’

IT HAS JUST ABOUT BECOME IMPOSSIBLE to read a newspaper, watch television or listen to the radio for a 24-hour period without hearing about climate change. The whole thing sounds a bit worrying but, despite all of the information, the phenomenon is still confusing, and the ordinary young person of the Caribbean does not quite know what to expect from climate change, when it will happen, what they can do about it, or how it will affect future generations.

So let us start at the beginning. What is climate change? “It is a change in climate which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable time periods.” Of course, this is an official definition, but in a nutshell, it means that the weather patterns that we have come to expect year after year in the Caribbean, will change and will no longer be as predictable as before.

The science that explains what is currently happening in our atmosphere and how it affects the oceans, the land and all life on Earth is sound. So we can brace ourselves for warmer days, shorter but heavier episodes of rainfall, longer and more intense droughts, stronger hurricanes, rising sea levels, and other new phenomena such as ocean acidification.

The rising sea levels should set off the alarms in our heads, given that most of us in the small islands and territories of the OECS live in lowlying coastal areas. Our

OECS Young Citizens have shown serious concern for climate change.

already high and, with the expected negative homes, roads, ports and making an impact on the impacts of climate change on livelihoods, all buildings in these international arena, to further job losses can be areas will be under make our fellow young threat of being washed citizens aware of climate expected. Undoubtedly then, it is our young away by rising seas and change; and now, we more powerful storm want our leaders to heed citizens that will disproportionately feel surges. Truth be told, our pain, our anxiety, the socio-economic pinch. everything will be our plight, and listen to Further, maybe jobs that affected, from fishing to us. Here it is. we come to know, like agriculture and tourism.

This coming being a fisherman, may Our traditional December, at the not even be a viable livelihoods and our way UNFCCC Conference of option for us…So leaders, of life will be disrupted the Parties (COP 21) in we are worried!. in one way or another. It Paris, the OECS, What do we the young will be a future laced Caribbean and the world people from the OECS with uncertainty. will once again sit down region want in an Already we are to develop a plan to agreement at the Paris witnessing deaths from minimise the effects of heat stroke, as happened climate change in coming Conference? We want Global temperature rise in India and Pakistan years. It will not be an this year, and more easy task, as countries incidence of diseases will have different transmitted by vectors. agendas and priorities, Life is unlikely to be a and the plan must be bed of roses for us young agreeable to everyone. A people of the OECS very tall ask. However, region, in the face of an for the people and the environmental backlash. youth of the Caribbean, So many things we as our very survival could young citizens in the depend on the outcome of OECS cherish so dearly these talks, and so we such as carnival, need you the leaders to entertainment and take firm positions to sports, will not be the ensure that our nations same if climate change are not further continues unabated. It is compromised. We as almost unimaginable young citizens would jumping carnival or follow the events closely playing 90 minutes of to ensure that their football in 40 degree interests and concerns heat. So for us young are being taken into citizens, finding ways to consideration.

Young people were avoid these horrific born into this climate scenarios is important, as this is the future that change debacle, we did we are facing. They have not create it. It was the in the past been making adults of this and efforts to have our voices previous generations who did; but clearly we will and opinions heard by suffer the consequences the governments of the of their actions. Our OECS, as our leaders countries are already negotiate with the international community under economic stress, and the scarce resources to reduce global presently available will emissions of carbon now have to be shared in dioxide through the the development of United Nations projects to adapt to Framework Convention climate change, rather on Climate Change than on programmes to (UNFCCC) process.

Organisations like the assist the development of youth and broader Caribbean Youth society. The levels of Environment Network unemployment in the (CYEN) have been Caribbean and in engaging the region’s particular the OECS, are young citizens and

to be kept below 1.5 degrees Centigrade, for the global community to have the ability to place sanctions on countries that surpass their CO2 emission quota, and for greater emphasis to be placed on improving the current rate of energy transition from fossil fuels to cleaner forms of renewable energy. But perhaps most important of all, our young citizens want governments of the OECS and the Caribbean to create the opportunities for us to be able to participate, to contribute our ideas, our thoughts and

solutions to the climate change debate. It is only fair, as the future belongs to us, and we are crying out to be taken seriously.

This article is written by the Young Citizens of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) in association with Mr. Reginald Burke of CYEN and Dr. Asha Singh of the OECS Commission. The article is produced as part of the Working Partnership on Climate Change Initiative (WPCC) supported by the Government of France.

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18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ÂBunpanÊ awards scholarship JULICIA MATTHEWS of Richland Park is the 2015 winner of the 2015 Annual Scholarship Award granted by the

Marriaqua United Friendly Society (Bunpan).

Julicia, the daughter of Cheslon

and Julia Matthews, received her award at a presentation ceremony held on Wednesday12th August, in Mesopotamia.

The 2015 scholarship awardee attended the Kingstown Preparatory School and placed 54th for girls and 76th overall, with an overall percentage of 87.60%, in the 2015 CPEA. She will begin her secondary education at the St. Vincent Girls’ High School on September 7th, 2015.

Additionally, a one-time assistance towards school expenses was given to twenty-two (22) other applicants who did not President Theophilus Shallow presenting the award to scholarship winner Julicia qualify for the scholarship.

All the students who benefited Matthews. are either members or are Also witnessing the presentation children of members of the Scoiety. were Vice President Rickie Burnett, The presentation ceremony heard Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Cecil an address from the president of the Jackson, Trustee Garvin Jackson and Society, Theophilus Shallow, who gave a brief history of Bunpan, which Manager Margaret Clarke. provides death benefits as its main This year, Bunpan joined forces business, and traced the progress of with the group ‘Marry Ah Qua’, past scholarship holders who have founded by Ms Jazz “Pat” Andrews, become doctors, bankers, Rhodes which launched an appeal to provide scholar and other notable financial assistance to needy children professionals. in the Marriaqua Valley.

The ceremony featured guest Towards this end, presentations speaker Mrs. Pearline Marks, who were made to parents and principals of encouraged students to study hard the Primary Schools in the Marriaqua and avoid distractions that will hinder Valley. their educational progress and general development.

Generation Next hosts Back-to-School fair CHARITY GROUP, Generation Next Inc., on Saturday, 29th August 2015, staged its first Back-to-School Fair at the Petit Bordel playing field in North Leeward.

The event was attended by close to 100 children, most of whom are from the Petit Bordel area.

Children participated in a series of sporting disciplines, including football and track and field, Carlos James, ULP candidate for North Leeward, was on hand to present school supplies to the children, and while the younger children flocked to to share in the day’s activities. bouncing castles the North Leeward area, gold and enjoyed snacks. medallist Loggie Loraine and According to Kaylon Hooper, one of Cuthbert Michael, at the recently held the event organisers, the event was a Special Olympic Games in Los successful start to many more Back-toAngeles, USA. School fairs for children in North The highlight of the event was the Leeward. presentation of school supplies to the “Preparing children for back-tochildren. On hand to make a school was the main focus of this contribution to the event was Carlos event, and every year, we are going to James, the Unity Labour Party make this a priority. The fair was the candidate for the constituency. first of its kind in the community of “I am happy to pledge my support Petit Bordel, and I am glad the and commitment to this initiative. I children and parents were happy to be know we can do more, and so we will a part of the event. It can only get leverage our partnerships to ensure bigger in the years to come,” Hooper that even more children benefit from noted. this event in the coming years,” James Hooper also thanked sponsors who said. contributed to the Back-to-School Fair.

The second leg of the Back-toThe event was also used to School fair will be staged in Spring recognise two special Olympians from Village this weekend.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 19.

News

SVG pledges help for Dominica THE GOVERNMENT of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will help storm-ravaged Dominica in whatever way possible.

This assurance was given by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves during his address at a Unity Labour Party rally held last Sunday, at Sharpes Playing Field in Chateaubelair.

Bailey Bridges have been earmarked as part of the assistance, and medical personnel from St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be deployed in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

Dr. Gonslaves is counting on the collaboration of other institutions as well.

For example, if the Prime Minister gets his wish, a special collection will be made today, Friday September 4, at the World Cup Qualifying match this country plays against Aruba, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Flood waters resulting from the rains brought by Erika caused severe damage to Dominica’ road system.

Additionally, Foreign Affairs Minister Camillo Gonsalves is organising a Cultural Rally to raise money to contribute to the disaster relief measures in Dominica.

The East Caribbean Group of Companies will supply flour, rice and Animal Feed to the nation, and its affiliate in Guyana will provide additional food supplies.

Tropical storm Erika touched down on Dominica August 27, leaving, according to reliable sources

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonslaves confirming this country’s assistance to Dominica during his address to a ULP rally in Chateaubelair last Sunday. with whom THE VINCENTIAN spoke on Tuesday, 11 confirmed dead and 23 missing, including two French nationals. (WKA)

Bailey Bridges for Dominica BRENT BAILEY, this country’s Chief Engineer in the Ministry of Works, said on Tuesday, that this country will be donating in excess of 100 metres of Bailey Bridge to Dominica, which was left devastated after the passage of tropical storm Erika last week Thursday.

A team was out assessing the inventory, Bailey told THE VINCENTIAN. He explained how the temporary structures work, saying that they are done in sections, therefore the span will determine the amount of bridges needed in a particular case.

So for example, if the span varied between 10 and 30 metres, then the Dominican authorities would have enough to facilitate at least three structures, he said.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said on Sunday at a political rally in Chateaubelair, that he had spoken to a senior engineer in the Ministry of Works, and that he was to receive an inventory on the number of Bailey Bridges that were available to be sent to Dominica.

He said that three were still required locally to complete work in Byera, Cumberland and Mt

Chief Engineer Brent Bailey (inset) did not specify how much of the Bailey bridges would be sent to Dominica.

Young.

“And we have a few in stock, and we will have to give our comrades in Dominica,” he said.

The Chief Engineer said that he could not confirm a date when the items would leave the state, saying that he was currently working on the details which include the cost to ship the bridges to Dominica, and the local cost to transport the items to the port. (DDD)

V She wants to come back 20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

why she is leaving me.

Now, all of a sudden she wants to come back to me, the man with the I NEED TO FIND OUT from you whether I should take back my girlfriend, after she “little piece ah ting” as she puts it. told me she is finished with me, and has She reasons that anyone can make a mistake and therefore , she wants me since taken up with another man whom to forgive her. I want to move on but she said can give her what I could not not with her. Why can’t she give her.

I treated this woman the best that I understand that? could over the time we were together, No Loser until she started asking for more and more. She tried to insult me by telling me that this other man is better than I Dear No Loser, am in bed, and that is the real reason You seem to know what you want

Dear George,

and what and who you want in your life and, judging from your words, it is not this woman.

Being with you, she must have had more than a good idea as to what you are about and what you can or cannot offer.

Yet, she was the one who made the decision to move on, and gave reasons for doing so.

You are not to be blamed for her disappointment with the ‘shadow’ she chased after. Now she wants to come

back for the bone. Just tell her that the bone is no longer available, and to get on with her life. We all have to accept the consequences of our decisions.

George

Teaching men a lesson Considering suicide Dear George,

A BUSINESSMAN in Kingstown said he has been looking at me for several months now, and has fantasized over me all that time, and asked me for sex.

He has a wife but no children. I told him flat out that I won’t mind giving him the sex he wants, but he needs to

know that I am HIV positive. He laughed and told me that I was just telling him that to keep him off. I told him again that I was HIV positive, and he laughed again and told me he did not believe me.

He then proceeded to offer me money for the sex he wanted. He handed 10 hundred dollar bills in an envelope. He took me to

a place in his car and we had the sex he wanted. I asked him if he wasn’t going to use a condom, and he said he does not have to, seeing that he does not believe that I am HIV positive.

I warned him after the sex, and told him to go and check his HIV status for his wife’s sake. But, he insisted it was not his business to tell his wife anything because he was

a big man and made his own choice.

The reason why I do what I did was to teach men like him a lesson.

They must learn to be faithful to their wives.

No Regret Dear No Regret, You knew you were HIV positive, and even if this man did not believe you, I still find you had a responsibility and it is your duty not to proceed to have unprotected sex with anyone. Teaching him a lesson is at the same time putting his wife’s life at risk and anyone else with whom he might have unprotected sex. You could have easily refused to oblige him and redirected him to his wife.

If you insist on being sexually active, it is your duty to ensure that all the precautions are that some measure of safety is in place. You are in a position to help sensitise the general public about the disease and the reasons to act responsibly when it comes to having sex.

George

Dear George, I AM A 30-YEAR-OLD MOTHER of four children, three under the age of 13 years, but there is no father in the picture. Their fathers are scattered in various places. One of them is in jail in either St. Lucia or Martinique; one is somewhere in Barbados, and the other two are somewhere about. None of them are taking care of their children.

I have been prostituting for the past few years to take care of these children. The money is good, but there is a problem and its bugging me to the point where I am thinking of taking my own life.

George, I need help, and need it now. The problem that I have is a big one, and I have not told anyone; but I know I can trust you to tell you. Please don’t publish my name in the paper after I tell you. I need your help.

Desperate Dear Desperate, Thank you for sharing. Although you have not explained what that “big” problem is that you are carrying around, I will attempt to address the issues you have raised.

Taking your life may seem like the best solution to you at this point, simply because you are overwhelmed and cannot see a way out of the situation that you are in. You will, however, discover that by talking to someone who is trained to listen and help, it eases the pressure greatly. You need to get professional help immediately. You can begin by calling or visiting the Marion House or Family Services and talk to someone there.

Those four children are dependent on you for their very survival, and it is commendable of you for choosing to take care of them the best way you know how. However, children tend to live what they see, and the example of prostitution is not the one that you would want them to adopt as a means of survival or a profession.

I quite understand the circumstances that may have driven you to that point, but you have now reached out for help, and that is an indication that you want better for yourself and your children. Talk to someone and keep me posted.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Things will be emotional with your mate. Plan your day thoughtfully, but try not to rely on others. You can make some favorable changes to your looks.

Don't fall for damaging rumors, and refuse to get involved in gossip.

decisions. Be sure to spend time helping children with projects that are too difficult for them to accomplish alone. Be tactful if you see flaws in someone else's work. Your mate may be distressed if you refuse to make a commitment.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Take your time; do not make any decisions in haste. Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. Your outgoing nature might work against you this week. Good friends will give you honest answers.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will be full of energy and you need to find something constructive to do.

Your mate, however, may not be too pleased with you. Get down to business.

Be careful when dealing with female members of your family. Delays are evident.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Use your inventiveness to find solutions. You can bet that you'll draw attention to yourself. Finish off old projects before starting something new.

Don't put all your cash in one place.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Family responsibilities are mounting.

You mustn't give too much to your children. Take time to catch up on overdue correspondence. Don't let your lover put demands on you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Only bite off what you can chew. Any attractions toward clients will be one sided and must be put right out of your head. Younger relatives may seek your advice. this week will be rather hectic on the domestic scene.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your high energy will enable you to take the role of leader in group functions.

Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. Social get-together will bring you in contact with intelligent new friends.

Trips will be more than adventurous.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Take the time to help those less fortunate. Don't exaggerate. You need to get down to basics with regard to yourself. Think twice before you say something you might regret later.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Concentrate on your job. You must try to lay your cards on the table. Talk to your mate and tell them how you feel.

Exaggeration or deception coupled with overindulgence might be a problem.

Don't let your partner start any arguments. Passion should be redirected positively.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Listen, but don't make any rash

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Real estate and joint financial ventures will be profitable. Get domestic chores out of the way early. You will find that you are able to clear up a number of small but important details. You need to concentrate on your business ventures more than on your relationship this week.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Rethink your motives and make the necessary changes to yourself. A series of misunderstandings may be at fault.

Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together.

ACROSS

Coyote State) 49. Drunkard 1. Half (prefix) 51. Milky Stone 5. Question’s 52. Feathered opposite (abbr.) scarf 8. Gave the 55. _ colada signal (cocktail) 12. Asterick 58. “_ Griffin’s 13. Janitorial tool Crosswords” 14. Norway’s 59. New York capital time (abbr.)

15. Caesar’s 60. Daredevil wear Knievel 16. Timetable 61. Writer abbr.

Gardner 17. Arrived 62. Summer 18. SSW’s opp. zodiac sign 20. Request 63. FDR’s New (2 wds.) _ 22. Soldier’s address (abbr.)

DOWN 24. Excellent 27. Reaction to 1. FDR’s an IM joke successor 28. Ostrich-like 2. DDE’s milibird tary arena 29. Biblical 3. The _ State mountain (Mississippi) 33. 2002, to 4. Teheran’s Brutus country 35. Rainy mo.

5. Doctors’ gp.

37. Be declined 6. Likewise not 38. Reaches 7. Lean eater 40. Water chiller Jack 42. Solidify 8. Pilot’s 43. Country “office” estates 9. Flying milit.

45. Astonish branch 46. South _ (The 10. Ticklish

Muppet 11. Active one 19. Paris summer 21. Distress call 22. Charity 23. Brilliant display 25. “_ Loser” (2 wds.)

26. Scholar 30. Pessimistic 31. Over again 32. Like a loafer 34. Include 36. Magnavox rival 39. Preside 41. 19th letter 44. Can marker

46. Capitol feature 47. Copycat 48. Marx or Malden 50. Page for viewpoints

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 21.

(hyph) 53. Romantic poem 54. From _ Z (2 wds.)

56. Teacher gp.

57. _ Saints’ Day

V

22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Employers demanding higher qualifications He pointed to the demand for employment MORE PERSONS are in and noted that there are need jobs, but employers ‘college students’ working are demanding higher at some of the Syrian qualifications. stores in Kingstown.

This is the view of “At the (Solidarity) General Secretary of the Car Park, you have a few National Workers of them, and we have Movement (NWM), Noel about 60 to 70 Jackson. applications. Seventy Jackson expressed the percent of those view while addressing a applications are from luncheon at the persons who went to the Methodist Church Hall Community College. on Thursday 20th, Now, this is phenomenal, during which the St. and some people may Vincent and the say, ‘Oh you want to tell Grenadines Port me college students a do Authority (SVGPA) them work dey’. You presented three Clarence better get accustomed to Keizer scholarships to it, because that is what students who were is going to be,” Jackson successful in the CPEA said. exams.

“It means, therefore,

by KENVILLE HORNE

that the human resource of the country is developing; it means, therefore, that jobs are becoming more and more competitive. The school dropouts have to do real menial work, unless they have a Godfather or Fairy Godmother,” he told the gathering.

Referring to a recent conversation he had with an employer who informed him that the next batch of workers that he will be hiring, must have a degree, Jackson declared: “I am not averse to that, because I believe that the atmosphere is right. That we have the conditions conducive to that kind of elevation of our

education abilities.”

Emphasising that education is extremely important in these times, the trade unionist posited that “the foundation, the infrastructure, is there to maintain that, and therefore we must take advantage of every opportunity that we get to educate our children and educate ourselves.”

Citing that there are upgraded programmes and facilities to cater to programmes for adult and continuing education and pre-schoolers, Jackson said, “It means the principle ‘From Cradle to the Grave’, as it relates to education, applies to St. Vincent

and the Grenadines, and therefore you are going to have a lot of opportunities,” said Jackson.

“It is for you the parents to ensure that your children are prepared, and ensure that they grab the opportunity with both hands in order to take their place in the world, because no longer you (are) going to find a person who mainly come out of primary school who is going to be anywhere as a manager or in any position, even in the realms of politics,” declared the NWM General Secretary.

Noel Jackson, General Secretary of the NWM, acknowledged that job places are going to become more and more competitive.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 23.

Windwards senior cricket under scrutiny

Lennox John, CEO of the Windward Islands

by E. GLENFORD Following the what criteria are being But John said that the Cricket Board, cites the PRESCOTT tournament, selectors used to select this tournament, which was senior tournament as a named a squad of 13 Windwards team known in the early days as showcase of cricketing IN THE FACE OF QUESTIONS players who will fill the anymore….it is clear that the Cork Cup, is an talent in the Windward about continuing the role as reserves in the even before the integral part of Islands. playing of the senior Windwards Volcanoes tournament was played Windwards Cricket, and Windwards tournament, Franchise, for which 15 that these people already should be maintained the former Windwards CEO of the Windward players have already been had a team in mind,” one since it still has a useful Board President said.

Islands Cricket Board, contracted for a 12-month past cricketer who asked purpose.

He said that the Lennox John, believes that period. not to be named said. “ I hear the arguments, thirteen players will act as to abandon it would be to The concerns raised by “How can (Miles) but we cannot take away replacements for the rob players of the some are that, even Bascombe (Romel) the one opportunity that “Windwards Volcanoes,” opportunity to showcase though some players did Currency and (Gidron) these players in the should any of the their talent on a stage not perform, they are still Pope get called in the 13 Windwards have of getting contracted players be where they could get in line to be given priority, and Atticus (Browne) who some attention….and you forced to drop out for opportunities to expand since they have already had two scores of 40 on a surely don’t want these whatever reason. John their game. been offered contracts, bad pitch at Park Hill, not players in St. Vincent the said that the “pay for The 2015 tournament and, in addition, players even get a call? This has Grenadines to just play play” system is still in took place in St. Vincent who had a miserable to be a joke.”

Victors versus (Team) effect, where players not and the Grenadines last tournament were still In that light, he said it Rivals and end off their on contract can still make week, with Dominica, joint given the nod in the 13may be best that the season. No, they must their way into the team, champions in 2014 with man squad over others Windwards Board not have that chance to say based on performance that Grenada, retaining the with better returns. waste monies to hold the they make ‘trials’ and seek happened with Bobb. title.

“I cannot understand, tournament. to play for St. Vincent,” CONTRACTED PLAYERS: Sunil Ambris, Alston Bobb, Johnson

WINLOTT Inc., Windwards Board sign new MOU IT’S BEING DESCRIBED as a much needed shot in the arm for the development of youth cricket in the Windwards sub group.

On Thursday March 12th, 2015, Windward Islands Lotteries Inc., which operates lottery services in the Windward Islands, and the Windward Islands Cricket Board, signed a sponsorship Memorandum of Understanding for the 2015 Under fifteen and Under nineteen cricket competitions.

The agreement was signed by the chairman of WINLOTT Inc., Murray Bullock, and the president of the Windwards Board, Emmanuel Nanthan, following a meeting in Barbados.

Under the agreement, WINLOTT Inc., will provide a total of EC$200,000, with $100,000 allocated to

meet the expenses of each competition. This is a oneyear agreement, but is subject to an extension.

Both parties have agreed that this sponsorship is critical for the development of cricket in the region.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Murray Bullock of WINLOTT Inc. said that his organisation was simply fulfilling one of its social mandates, by contributing to the development of youth cricket in the sub region.

“Cricket is an important sport for our young people, and my organisation is proud to be making this contribution at a time like this,” Bullock said.

The President of the Windwards Board, Emmanuel Nanthan, welcomed the contribution by WINLOTT Inc. “It is pleasing to see regional organisations coming forward to fund aspects of

Murray Bullock, chairman of WINLOTT Inc., viewed WINLOTT’s involvement as a demonstration of its commitment to the development of the youth.

Emmanuel Nanthan, president of the Windwards Board, said WINLOTT should be commended for its readiness to identify with the development of cricket in the Windwards.

our cricket, and WINLOTT Inc., must be highly commended for this development.”

Under the agreement, WINLOTT Inc., will have marketing rights to the tournaments, including branding, naming and media rights, and promotional events.

Both entities will continue to engage each

other as to developmental activities for the young cricketers from the Windwards group.

Winlott Inc had previously partnered with the WICBC as the sponsor of the Windwards T20 tournament for four years, from its inception in 2010 until 2013.

(Contributed)

Atticus Browne is considered to have got an unfair deal in light of poorer performance by others included.

Charles, Andre Fletcher, Mervin Matthew, Kenroy Peters, Liam Sebastien, Shane Shillingford, Devon Smith, Tyrone Theophille, Delorn Johnson, Kevin Mc Lean, Keddy Lesporis, Kyle Myers, Dalton Polius.

RESERVES: Jerlani Robinson, Kavem Hodge, Tarrick Gabriel, Gidron Pope, Kershaske Jno Lewis, Vincent Lewis, Josh Thomas, Keiron Cottoy, Larry Edward, Dennis Smith, Kenneth Dembar, Romel Currency, Miles Bascombe.

Police unbeaten POLICE MAINTAINED their unbeaten run, with a 27-run victory over Rudy’s Electrical in the VINLEC North Leeward Championship last Sunday. Propped

by Donson Andrews 62 and Marcus John 36, the lawmen reached 185 for 8 from 19 overs. Ian Allen, 3 for 31, Augustine Bentick, 3 for 32 and Joelano Neil, 2 for 19, were among the wickets for Rudy’s Electrical.

Dean Bynoe 57, Norlan Williams 30 contributed to Rudy’s Electrical run chase which ended at 158 for 9 in their allotted 19 overs.

That victory was Police’s third, and placed them on course for a quarterfinal berth. Those matches are scheduled for October 4 and 10. Semi-finals will be October 11, and the final October 18, according to the North Leeward Sports Association.

Meanwhile, North Stars kept their chances of a quarterfinal spot alive with an 86-run win over Carlos James Rose Bank last Sunday. North Stars raced to 205 for 5 from 15 overs, due mainly to a 140-run third wicket partnership between Gidron Pope, 95 not out, and Elron Lewis, 70. Shelford Caesar 3 for 35 had the best figures for Rose Bank.

Rose bank never challenged in the hunt for victory, and crawled to 119 for 8 from the 15 overs.

Williams Edwards and Keiron Caesar both 22, and Ezekiel Williams 20 were Rose Bank’s chief contributors, with Javon Samuel, 3 for 13, having the best returns for North Stars.

The competition continues this weekend with Petit Bordel Secondary School and Sharpes United in tomorrow’s first game, followed by a Circumstance/ Robertson Surveying Future Legends clash.

Sunday’s card sees Somerset and Carlos James Troumaca Starlight in the first match, followed by an Ajuba/Circumstance.

V Vincy Heat ready for Aruba 24. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Vincy Heat, SVG’s national football team, continue their quest for a place in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, when they face Aruba in another World Cup qualifier at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, today, Friday.

Speaking at one of the team’s training sessions earlier this week, Head Coach Cornelius Huggins expressed his satisfaction with the team’s progress so far.

“I am very confident with the team. We want to seal the deal here. We want to make sure of going to Aruba with Head Coach Cornelius Huggins something convincing. We want to make sure we do the is at ease as he keeps an eye on a work here, finish them off Vincy Heat training here, so when we go to Aruba we could be a little more session at the Arnos Vale Playing comfortable and confident,” Huggins said.

Field.

When asked about the players’ attitude, Huggins said, “The players are really relishing the opportunity to play against the bigger team like America. They see the journey from here on as a very good opportunity to market themselves, so they will look to impress the scouts who will be around

Vincy Heat members in a training session earlier this week. these matches.”

As far as preparation was concerned, Huggins said most of the objectives were achieved, but admitted, “I think we need to work a little more on our defensive part. We are conceding too many goals after the 75 minutes, so the whole team, not just the specialists, need to defend when its necessary. Once players understand their roles and responsibilities, I think we will be a better team.”

And on the subject of the inclusion of some players who are playing in different professional leagues, the Head Coach was of the opinion that “It’s important to have these guys as a part of the set, because I believe they will bring their playing

experience and mentality to bear on the younger players, who will look up to them as professions.’

Vincy Heat goes into today’s match with a recent friendly against Barbados behind them and the advantage of playing at home.

The team to face Aruba reads: Lemus Christopher, Winslow McDowall, Regional Richardson, Roy Richards, Kevin Francis, Akeem Williams, Jolan Shoy McDowall, Darren Hamlet, Emrol George, Nazia McBarnet, Olex Anderson, Cornelius Stuart, Vasbert Ledger, Kevin Slater, Gavin James, Danroy Edwards and Romaio Snagg.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Protest returns to local sports his demise with shouting and cheering.

Then it was the turn of a legspinner PROTEST at sporting events has been Osbourne Browne who found himself a rare occurrence in St. Vincent and included in the SVG team for a the Grenadines. So, whenever one takes place, it gets the attention of the Windward Islands match at Arnos Vale, at the expense of fast bowler public.

In 1968, cricket fans, incensed that Jerome Samuel- a player from the Sion Hill community. This resulted in Barbadian Ken Toppin, then residing the game nearly not starting on time, here, was given the nod over Sam since the stumps to be used belonged “Bugsy” Layne as wicketkeeper, in a to the Sion Hill Club. Manager of the match against Dominica at the club, Lloyd Lewis, changed his mind Victoria Park, proceeded to “boo” the about lending the stumps, only after a player each time he touched the ball. contingent of club members, led by Their hostility was even more glaring when Toppin was out for a pair Winston Davis, convinced him so to do.

The match got on the wa, and —LBW both times-and they celebrated

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

National Reconciliation rules THE MINISTRY OF National Reconciliation (MNR) are the 2015 InterMinisterial Table Tennis champions.

They claimed the title when they defeated the Ministry of National Mobilisation (MN), 3 games to 2.

On the actual green table, Junior Byron Cox was to prove pivotal to the MNR’s victory, playing unbeaten in his two matches.

Champion team, National Reconciliation The scores in the finals comprised (from left): Romano Davis, Kimone playoff read: Junior Byron Jack and Junior Byron Cox. Cox (MNR) beat Philcol 12/10; and Junior Byron Cox (MNR) Jeffers (MN) 11/9 10/12 11/9; beat Roger Young 11/4 12/10 (MN).

Romano Davis (MNR) beat Roger The next inter-ministerial round of Young (MN) 4/11 11/9 11/7; Yoland sporting rivalry will be on the netball London (MN) beat Kimone Jack (MNR) 11/7 11/8; Philcol Jeffers (MN) court. This is expected to get going this month, September. beat Romano Davis (MNR) 11/1

Browne, like Toppin a few years before, was roundly “booed”.

The Layou residents in their time thought they had a cause to protest when the skilful Marcus Young was constantly omitted from the SVG Rodger Gibson staging his football team in one-man protest. favour of “Sheen” Millington.They two-day would eventually accept that cricket, Millington was the superior player. limited The community of Sion Hill, always ready to “fight for their rights”, did so overs and T20, and when the Keith Joseph- led SVGAAA barred their team from taking part in he dominates Desrom Maloney – the a Road Race. Stoney faced and man at the cause of the unsmiling, they stood at the side of the in all protest. forms, so road brandishing their placards and why is he clearly resisting the “spirit of old” to being treated this way?” Gibson asked. “mash up” the race.

Fast forward to Tuesday, August He said that Maloney was the 25th, 2015. On that day, after what Premier Division leading run-getter in seemed a period of capitulation, the 2014, and the second highest in 2015 spirit of protest resurfaced when local yet, he cannot get a play, while others premier division cricketer, Rodger in the team are failing, pointing to the Gibson, turned up at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. just prior to the start of returns of the experienced pair of the match between SVG and defending Miles Bascombe and Romel Currency, champions Dominica, to show his whose combined runs up to the second disappointment over the omission of round of matches was less than a his ASCO teammate Desron Maloney. hundred.

“Desron Maloney deserves to play”, President of the SVG Cricket the placard simply read, but it said a Association, Kishore Shallow, said that lot.

Maloney was just unfortunate, and According to Gibson, Maloney has since there are players who may not be been one of the leading players in cricket in SVG, and he has not been around next year, the player must given a fair chance to play on the continue to score runs and “keep national team. himself in the frame”.

“Maloney plays hardball, softball,

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 25.

Sports

Getting down to business

BY THIS AFTERNOON, Friday, September 4, the first leg of the World Cup qualifying match would have been determined. Both teams would have assessed the results and project for the second phase four days later. So September 8, the Vincentians go into that game in Aruba, conscious of the configurations.

Whatever transpires today, that will be no telling as to what may unfold. Coaches will be minded about making predictions and await the result.

No one will want to take anything for granted.

The Vincentians have to get the job done, starting here and finishing it off in Aruba. There should be no distractions from the mission, and the team and staff will have to keep a close tab on the game as time progresses.

The opening moments will be crucial, and the Vincentians will have to ensure that they don’t allow the excitement to overawe them. Playing at home could sometimes be tense, as indeed some of our overseas results have proved. There is perhaps a more relaxed feeling on the players knowing that they will not be under such acute individual scrutiny.

The youngsters are maturing and have grown used to the exposure. They will have to show that mettle.

Patrons attending today’s game will be encouraged to make a monetary contribution to help Dominica as they recover from the ravages of Hurricane Erika which swept with deadly accuracy one week ago.

Dominica’s situation demands human concern, and the least we could do as Vincentians, is to extend our hand in solidarity in those ways we can.

It was recently that we were at the receiving end of the region’s generosity in the wake of some frequent and recent disasters which touched down on our surface.

Caribbean nations have been sewn from the same cloth, and just like how Vincentians are managing to keep their heads above water, Dominicans will rise from their current debacle.

It is events like these that help to drive home the basis of our existence. When things go well for us on the individual territorial basis, we view ourselves as genuinely independent and capable of solving the problems on our own. When disasters strike, the reality of our vulnerability sinks home.

Somehow, we resort to a selfish mentality and wage war against each other when there is any hint that some gains can be made if something surfaces in and around our borders.

In the long run, Caribbean people have to strengthen their links. There is no other choice.

It can’t be construed that the region is at a standstill as far as integration is concerned.

CARICOM may not be the express train along the track, but its existence is evidence that something is happening.

Caribbean people tend to be their harshest critics, and we mock and decry even our efforts at progress. We prefer to contribute to a foreign cause for the various reasons than strive for the progress and advancement on our home region.

Like the natural disasters, matters occur which revive that spirit of regionalism in us. In addition to its natural tendency, the economic factor will bear down on us.

It is in that context that we support Dominica’s reconstruction. Any breakdown in any small corner of the regional network calls for immediate response from the rest of its colleagues.

The politicians will be influenced by the exigencies of the democratic system; but above that, that sense of brotherly love has to exist among all of us.

Duke, Rising Stars, Titans Bequia Champions DUKE, RISING STARS and Titans were crowned 2015 champions in the first, second and under 16 division respectively, following contrasting victories on the weekend, as the curtain came down on the 17th Edition of the Vita Malt Bequia Basketball Championship, at the Clive Tannis hard court.

First Division Defending Champions Duke bounced back from being one game down, in the best of 3 playoff, to beat the favoured East Blazers.

Veteran Ishama McKree, playing his fifth year with Duke, was adjudged MVP of the best of 3 series. He led the score in the final and deciding game with 36 points.

East Blazers were unbeaten in eight games in the first round of the competition, which began on July 11th, and were favoured to win. But the team fell short of victory by 10 points in Game 3.

East Blazers MVP Steveon Taylor was also adjudged the Most Valuable Player in the competition, with impressive

overall statistics of 171 points, 66 rebounds, 30 assists, 26 steals and 3 blocks, in eight games played. He also got the most point’s award.

Teammate Denroy Hutchins secured the most blocks trophy with 30 in 8 games.

Other individual awards went to Wizards’ Kamol Hutchins for the most rebounds (110), and Xavaughn Dennie the most steals (36).

six games of competition. He also was adjudged the most improved player, and received the most assists and most steals awards.

His teammate Vernell Phillips secured the most points, most rebounds and most blocks, with 124, 95 and 7 respectively.

Under 16 Division

Titans secure the Under 16 title when they defeated Hawks two games to one.

Second Division In the individual achievement awards, Jovani Derrick of Defending Champions Blazing Dragons had the most points and Heats surrendered their Second most blocks with 172 and 27 Division title to Rising Stars, respectively, in ten games played. losing 2-1 in the best of three Dimitri Peniston, also of Dragons series final. had the most assists with 51 in Rising Stars’ Cody Compton, ten games.

Hawks’ Daren John was who was named his team’s MVP as well as the Finals MVP, scored adjudged the most improved 25 points to secure the win. player in 2015, and was also Despite their second place awarded most steals with 60. position, Blazing Heats captured The U16 Division is a feeder all seven of the individual awards. system for the other divisions, Fifteen-year-old Nicholas Lewis and is sponsored by the Bequia was adjudged Overall MVP with Basketball Association.

114 points, 39 rebounds, 48 assists, 49 steals and 6 blocks in I.B.A.ALLEN

Jamaican completes deal with Chelsea AS TEAMS from the Caribbean involve themselves in another round of 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers this weekend, many a player will be keeping the news of another Caribbean player making it big, at the fore front of their minds.

News from Jamaica on Wednesday, indicated that that country’s national team player, 23-yearold centre-back Michael Hector has been signed by world renowned Chelsea Football Club, defending champions in the English Barclays Premier League.

Hector, who currently represents Reading in the English League Championship, is reported to have undergone a medical at Chelsea’s Cobham Training Centre on Monday before he signed off on a fiveyear contract, said to worth some £4.5 million.

However, the Jamaica national player will remain at Reading on loan for the remainder of the season. He made 49 appearances in all competitions for Reading last season.

News from London described the signing as “a shock”, with Chelsea apparently beating out Crystal Palace for Hector’s signature.

Palace had registered an interest in the Jamaica international on Tuesday morning, but the Barclays Premier League champions launched a late

Michael Hector poses with his Chelsea shirt after he was signed by the club and loaned back to Reading. move for the 23-year-old, after Chelsea’s technical director Michael Emenalo scouted him in recent weeks.

Hector was born in London but qualifies to represent Jamaica through his father, whose family hails from Kingston.

He made his debut Jamaica in June, starting in the 1-0 Copa America defeat against Uruguay. He would go on to start in the other two matches, against Argentina and Paraguay.

But it was during the Gold Cup where he truly impressed, operating alongside Wes Morgan and grasping his chance after replacing Jermaine Taylor in the ninth minute of a slender win against El Salvador. From there, he kept the spot, playing in the remaining three matches, including the unsuccessful final against favourites Mexico, in which Jamaica became the first Caribbean side to reach that final.

V

26. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ULP James at ease

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

CARLOS JAMES, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Leeward, is at ease. He made his feelings known last Sunday night as he addressed a rally staged by the ULP, at the Sharpes Playing Field in Chateaubelair.

James, a practising lawyer and former journalist, expressed his feelings with the knowledge that the “ULP government has natural disaster risk management as a priority.”

He had the support of the ULP team in an event designed to sway potential voters to the party.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves introduced James to the crowd, but not before giving his verdict on the political climate. A number of ULP

Carlos James, ULP candidate for North Leeward, outlines his plans for bringing improvement in the lives of the people of that constituency.

supporters thronged the area, bedecked in red outfits. Some carried flags, banners and other symbols, and listened to the presentations.

“Give me Carlos as the next representative, so that I can put him in the cabinet to do important work for North Leeward,” Dr. Gonsalves begged.

James revelled in the endorsement given to him by the party’s leadership, and launched into his version of progress for North Leeward. Part of that includes expansion of the Port and Hospital in Chateaubelair to improve the services provided.

Farmers and fisherfolk are part of James’

outreach activities. He plans to work with those sectors to continue progress in their lives.

James’ address came amidst the ULP clippings of musical interludes which filled gaps during speeches. The ULP is keen on regaining the two Leeward seats which it lost in the 2010 general elections.

James has been entrusted with the task of recapturing the North Leeward constituency, and Jomo Thomas, appointed Senator in 2013, is taking up a similar battle for the ULP in South Leeward.

Thomas suggested that on the basis of “education alone, the

‘I am no Superman,’ Dr. Matthias Director of Airports; Dr. CEO OF THE INTERNATIONAL Jerrol Airport Development Company Thompson, Limited (IADC), Dr. Rudy Matthias, Fiscal Adviser/ says he is no “Superman”.

Telecom; Dr. Matthias, speaking at the Everett Best, Ministry of Foreign Affairs conference Pilot; Desiree room last week Thursday, said that he Millington, had heard that there is a ‘Superman’, Alternate/ Rudy Matthias, who they claim is Ministry of single-handedly responsible for every Finance; Keith Dr. Rudy Matthias, decision made at Argyle.

Francis, Acting CEO/IADC, moved “But if I am truly, solely responsible Chief Surveyor; to dispel the impression that he for implementing the airport project at Victor Hadley, was the sole Argyle, which the same person called Entrepreneur; a, “miracle”, then I ought to be Jasmin Deane, authority over the Argyle Airport commended, not vilified,” said Dr. Entrepreneur; Matthias, adding, “The truth is, IADC Dexter Samuel, Construction project. has a highly accomplished Board of Entrepreneur; Directors and a highly skilled work Rochelle Forde, team”.

Corporate Secretary; and Dr. Rudy The CEO proceeded to name the Matthias, Chief Executive Officer at persons who comprise the Board of IADC. Directors of the IADC: Vincent The airport project employs a work Beache , National Security Advisor; force of some of 613 persons, made up Christian Martin, Former Fiscal of 104 Cubans and 509 Vincentians.

Adviser; Garth Saunders, Manager of The technical staff comprises 501 CWSA; Brent Bailey, Chief Engineer, Vincentians, and 68 Cubans. The Minister of Works; Senator Julian Engineering staff consists of 36 Francis; Glen Beache, CEO/Tourism Cubans and 8 Vincentians.

Authority; Godfrey Pompey, The IADC was incorporated in Permanent Secretary Ministry of November 2004.

National Security; Corsel Robertson,

by KENVILLE HORNE

ULP supporters displayed banners declaring their support for the first time candidate.

Unity Labour Party deserves a fourth term.”

Thomas highlighted other achievements under the party’s banner, pointing to improvement in the health sector which he considered was another reason for which persons should vote for the ULP. Thomas praised Gonsalves whom he described as a “thinking leader.”

There will be no complacency for Thomas.

He urged listeners to go to the hills, mountains,

valleys and rivers and speak to their neighbours.

Thomas wants 35,000 voters for the ULP, so that the party attains the majority.

Sir Louis, the Central Leeward candidate, endorsed James, and promised listeners that there will be jobs when the Central Leeward Hotel Development project comes on stream.

Straker displayed designs of the venture which he said includes a Casino.

Straker highlighted the government’s role in poverty reduction, and appealed to opposition New Democratic Party supporters to join the ULP, while urging supporters to “Hold the fort. … Let us stay together. Let us bring home a great victory for the ULP,” Besides the musical excerpts, a number of performing artistes crossed the stage. Those included North Leeward based Virus and Rawlo, and Sunny Banks Young.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2015. 27.

Classifieds

Retreating to butt harder next time

FOR RENT

two seasons which they like best are autumn and winter, respectively, in The country is beautiful beyond which Ethan plays rugby. measure, and presents a picture of Perhaps our best day in London balanced growth, with manufacturing entailed: two hours car drive to the heading the list, with computers and railway, followed by train to the city motor-car industry leading the way. centre, cafe’s visitation, view of The cities of Frankfurt and Madame Tussard, view of the city by Mannerheim, around which we “The London Eye” over the Thames, spent three days, are renowned for return trip by river boat to the rail their brisk trade and exciting motorterminus by which we enteredways. sumptuous meal at a posh restaurant, That aspect of the holiday then the car drives to our temporary continued on our return to England for homes. the wrap up session. I spent much I conclude that my three weeks time at home looking at TV, mostly holiday abroad was well worth it. I sport, to which my son and I are conversed with aging relatives, addicted. His own young 11-year-old perhaps for the last time in the flesh; I daughter, Sophia, is a champion at met old friends now chastened into squash in her neck of the woods, and tolerance of Christian faith in the face already engages in International of serious illness; experienced the meets. A granddaughter of Ena’s is a living hope of a coming generation; promising sprinter. gained strength in mind and body that Already, I think that the new enables me to cope with the generation is permanently lost to us. (temporary) rat hole that I escaped My sampling is ridiculously simple. and fully breathe once more.

Adrian’s two simply declared that the Next week, I am back on track.

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WILFRED JAMES Mt. Sinai Spiritual Baptist Church Georgetown Tuesday 1st September, 2015 3:00 p.m.

JACQUELINE M.E. HUGGINS RAMAN ASHTON Pembroke Pentecostal Assembly Sunday 30th August, 2015 2:00 p.m.

GLORIA ESTINA BRUCE - WYLLIE (Aka Baby Girl) Mesopotamia Gospel Hall Assembly Saturday 29th August, 2015 2:00 p.m.

Streams of Power, Sion Hill Saturday 29th August, 2015, 3:00 p.m.

Officiating: Pastor Errol Daniel

F O R

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PRINCE DEMITS OFFICE La Celia A. Prince was appointed St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ ambassador to the U.S. on May 30, 2008. She was then, the youngest ambassador to the United States from any nation.

Canada, said she will leave office on Sept. 6, 2015, and will assume her new position, as “an advisor in the Office of JUST OVER SIX MONTHS before the Assistant Secretary fresh general elections are General,” the next day. constitutionally due in St. “The 10 years of service, Vincent and the Grenadines, which I have given at the Ambassador to the United Embassy and Permanent States, La Celia Prince, has Mission of St. Vincent and demitted office, saying she has the Grenadines, both in my been “invited” by the newlycapacity as Deputy Chief of elected administration of the Mission, and then as Washington, D.C.-based Ambassador, have been an Organization of American States invaluable opportunity for me (OAS) to “join their team.” to serve the government and In a letter to the Vincentian people of St. Vincent and Diaspora, circulated in New the Grenadines,” she said.

York last Thursday, Prince, “I admit that, when I was who is also St. Vincent and offered the opportunity the Grenadines’ non-resident seven years ago to become High Commissioner to St. Vincent and the

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

Grenadines’ Ambassador to the U.S.A., I was intimidated by the daunting task of managing the government’s relationship with the Diaspora, knowing that it is a herculean task,” she added.

“Now that I am about to complete my tour of duty, I can say unreservedly that you made it easy for me by exceeding my expectations,” Prince continued. “You, the North America Diaspora, have given me your unconditional support, and I thank you for your cooperation and collaboration with me over the years.

“Many of you have been friends to me, offering special assistance when

SVGCC robbed UP TO PRESS TIME Wednesday, police were still investigating a robbery which occurred at the Division of Arts and Sciences of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, in Villa.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sydney James confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN that a robbery occurred at the SVGCC Division of Arts and Not even educational institutions are immune from the Sciences over the weekend. reach of thieves.

An undisclosed amount of money is said to have been removed.

Numerous attempts to contact authorities at the institution all proved futile.

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

needed, guidance and counsel, words of encouragement and, indeed, your prayers,” she said.

“Your unwavering efforts to contribute to nation building have been an inspiration for me to work even harder to meet our joint objectives.”

Prince said she was certain that the North American Diaspora will maintain its commitment to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and that nationals will use their talents and resources to contribute to the nation’s further development.

“I ask that the love and support you have given me be likewise shown to my successor,” she said without identifying him or her.

The outgoing envoy, however, said that, pending the arrival of her successor, Councillor Omari Williams “will take charge of the affairs of the embassy.”

As she adopts her new

assignment, Prince said she looks forward to “being of continued service” not just to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but also to the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and peoples of the entire hemisphere.

Some political observers in the United States view Prince’s sudden departure as a subtle acknowledgement that the incumbent Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves may face a heavy defeat in the forthcoming polls at the hands of the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

General elections are constitutionally due in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

by March next year.

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